Eonwë
Vala, Council
Vala and proud member of the Valar Guild. A quarter century of Tolkien fun.
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Post by Eonwë on Nov 27, 2005 20:04:03 GMT -5
Auros:
The last few days the group rode hard and fast, and finally Erebor, the Lonely Mountain, loomed above them, its shadow just now waxing towards the East as Anar passed her zenith. With the town of Dale in Auros’ sight, the rest of the journey would be taken at a slower pace so they would not be tired when they reached the town.
With the group now close enough to be seen by the guards watching over the city, Auros thought back on the question Fainan had asked a few days earlier:
“Auros, do you see any hope?"
He only had the answer he had been given long ago when he asked a similar question:
“There is always hope.”
Even when things seem to be at their darkest, there is always hope. There were dark times before, and there will be dark times in the future. Our task is to deal with those in our time. But is it the time of the Elves? Aye, for now it is.
Auros brought the group to a halt as they approached the guards. Formalities were exchanged in Westron, and after a short conversation between Auros and the guards, the group was let to enter Dale. Carefully the group wound through the city until they came to an inn. Dismounting and turning the reigns of their horses over to the stablehand, they entered the inn. Directing the group to an empty table with enough chairs to seat them all, Auros turned his attention to the innkeeper, a thin man who stood behind the bar cleaning a mug.
“My friends and I are in need of rooms.”
The innkeeper eyed Auros and his group warily. He then watched Auros’ hand as he set it on the counter. Removing his hand, Auros left behind 3 stones. One was red, another clear, and the other a deep blue, but all reflected brightly the light of the inn. The wariness of the innkeeper assuaged, and the rooms obtained, Auros began to carefully inquire about local happenings, which the innkeeper was now more than happy to discuss: news of the emissary from “that place we do not name,” the reactions of Kings Brand and Dain, mostly information already known to the Council. The emissary had not returned, but it was obvious by the guards patrolling the city and guarding all entrances that Dale was poised for whatever came next.
After gleaning the information he could from the innkeeper, Auros excused himself and went to join the others. Occupying the empty seat at the table, he spoke quietly to them.
“I must now seek the others of my people. If you have any dealings to complete in Dale, do so today. If you are asked, that is your business here. Or you may remain here. I have secured rooms for us in this inn, and the innkeeper is well taken care of. Do not draw more attention than an Elf of Mirkwood usually would in Dale. Likely, enough eyebrows are raised that a Dwarf travels with a group of Elves.”
With that, Auros rose and left the inn. He wound through the streets, careful of any passers-by as he navigated through the city until he came to his destination: another inn, where he and his comrades had agreed to meet.
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Varda
Vala, Council
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Post by Varda on Dec 2, 2005 2:25:48 GMT -5
Fainan:
Fainan drummed her fingers on the inn table, trying not to breathe the smoky air with its alcholic fumes mixed with the smell of the unwashed. Now how was she supposed to explore this interesting new town and not attract unusual attention? She certainly was not going to leave Haran behind, as that would be rude. Perhaps, being short, he would be less noticed surrounded by elves? What else should a lady elf do but drag her gentleman friends, protesting of course, along with her, into some excitement?
"Is this not a town with which our people have done much trade? Perhaps we should investigate how their prices are between themselves, lest we allow unfair gain on their part." As she received the expected non-response, she grinned brightly and started for the door. "Let's go shopping!"
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Post by arathorn on Dec 3, 2005 15:30:02 GMT -5
Haran:
Haran, seeing Fainan's enthusiasm after such harrowing experiences, marveled at her fortitude. With a smile and a shake of his head he called out "Shopping! We dwarves love a good deal.. where are the sales!" Then with a hearty laugh he leaped from his chair and jingling a bag of gold ran to her side. "Shopping it is! But mind you... I won't be taken for a novice!" Chuckling he turned and challenged "Who else of ye are ready for a different kind of battle! Let us haggle the night away!"
Hands on hips he nudged Fainan and nodded for her to continue the recruitment.
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Varda
Vala, Council
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Post by Varda on Dec 3, 2005 23:53:12 GMT -5
Fainan:
"Ah, see? We are safe! We have Haran's protection! Think you we can do well in this endeavor? Come with us if you think yourselves sufficient to the challenge." She winked and went out the door, happy to have company.
The outdoor shops were situated conveniently near the inn, surely by design. She smiled, running her fingers along a bolt of fine cloth, a match to her blue eyes. Perhaps a few yards? The vendor's price was too much, so she turned as if to go to the next booth. "Ahh! Blackberry tarts! Fancy you one, Master Haran?"
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Post by arathorn on Dec 4, 2005 7:55:49 GMT -5
Haran:
"Blackberries! My favorite kernel of fruit, although in a pinch a huckleberry or hack-berry would suffice.. hmmm I wonder if there are any beverages about that would complement a fine slice of pie? See you anything further on Fainan? My stomach is starting to grumble in anticipation!". Laughing he trotted ahead a ways after spotting a table filled with steaming liquids. "Grab me a segment Fainan whilst I check out these lovely heated libations. But don't forget to haggle! The vendors demand it!". Giddy as a schoolboy he bounded off to see what drinks would satisfy his now growing thirst.
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ArPharazon
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King of the Land of the Star
Posts: 296
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Post by ArPharazon on Dec 4, 2005 10:46:19 GMT -5
Calion:
Dale. A noisy village, full of trade and mirth. A human settlement, with a Dwarven kingdom to the North, and an Elven realm to the West. Combining aspects of all 3 cultures in one place. Truly a unique location in the world.
It had been nigh 80 years since the death of Smaug and the glorious battle in the river-valley, and life had returned to the ruined town as if it had never been abandoned. With his many duties within the forest Calion had not gone this way since the day of the battle, when he had been yet a lot less experienced in war. But he still remembered the event as if it happened yesterday, and wondered at the revival of Dale.
Where burned ruins had been all that reminded of homes, now an inn had been built. Where bodies had lain, people were walking and chatting merrily. It was as if all had been a dream, and he had just awakened again to the beauty of the world. Mortals would always amaze Calion, shedding off the past terrors their ancestors had witnessed, and living like no evil existed in the world, enjoying their limited lifespans.
Yet this was all on the surface. Tension had arisen throughout the town's people, and guards were posted along all entrances. A mere short exchange of words between Auros and the guards had been enough to be let through almost immediately, and the group had gone into town.
After settling his horse and belongings at the inn, Calion witnessed his companions go out. Fainan and Haran went shopping, Auros went out doing whatever he went out for to do. Calion's dislike of the Noldo had not lessened since their last argument, but he had come to terms with the fact that whatever was Auros' business was his own, and the rest was just here for escort and military obedience. If the Noldo wanted to share information, he would do so in his own time, and no questioning would get it out of him earlier.
Calion remained in the inn for a while. He ordered something to quench his thirst, and inquired to the innkeeper about the last 77 years of history, comparing the information with what he remembered. After some time his curiosity was satisfied, and he went out.
After wandering the streets for a while, he came upon a local weapon- and armorshop. He strolled in, admiring the craftsmanship of the merchandise. Either this was all imported from the Dwarven mountain itself, or whoever made it had had Dwarven influence. A constant banging from the backroom confirmed the latter. The blacksmith was working on new pieces to sell later, and looked up from his anvil when he saw Calion coming in to greet him.
"An elf!" he exclaimed. "In my blacksmith! That is a rare occasion. Most visitors from Mirkwood carry their own equipment from your own realm, and care not so much for my armored goods and weaponry. My specialization is in metal, and I must warn you that there are better places in Dale to get the bows and leather armor the Silvans are known to use. But if there is anything here you are interested in, I will do my best to serve you."
Calion replied with a smile to his face that he was interested in blades mostly, daggers in particular, and those could not be found in leather. The smith now noticed the oddly-shaped dagger on his side, and the two wound up in a lengthy conversation about boomaggers and other promising recent developments in the business, occasionally pointing to the finely crafted Dwarven daggers on the wall.
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Post by Shelob on Dec 12, 2005 15:03:11 GMT -5
Estarion:
With the last few days riding hard and with little rest, Estarion felt broken. He did not feel tired, but the journey was.. wearying. Estarion had set himself down at a table in the common room and drifted off with his thought to untold places and distant memories. So deep in thought he was, he neither heard Fainan's, nor Haran's question to join them.
It had been some time since he had heard the clamor of people going about in numbers and he had missed it since he took this mission. Now that he heard those sounds again, he drifted amongst them to the lands he called home. Along the sandy shores of Cuivienen he walked, with the sun on his head and the wind ruffling his hair. Walking through the streets of his town, he greeted the people he had not seen for so long. Their faces were grim and hard set, as if times had not improved since he had departed and he grieved that it was not so. Seeing his people all but defeated (he knew his people would not admit defeat until they were no more), he strengthened his resolve all the more and drifted back to where he was.
Dale, a town which lay in the shadow of a lonely mountain on the plain. A town which had been rebuilt not so long before after the Dragon, which had resided in this mountain was slain. Up in the mountain itself, the Dwarves had returned, and taken up their residence and trades again. Trade flourished between the Mountain, Dale and cities further south, and even between the Wood Elves in their dark forest. Not much he knew of the people, dwarf or man living in this place, except that they tried to survive, as any mortal did with great meticulousity. He knew not whether they walked in the shadow, or the path of the Valar. He suspected they did not walk in the shadow, or Auros would not have had not them here. No matter what happened, he would not believe an Elf of the Noldorin to walk in the Shadow, unless proof would be given a thousandfold. Although they had always seemed haughty people, and quick to anger, they were fierce and determined in fighting Morgoth and his minions, great or small.
Once again Estarion noticed his thoughts had strayed and stood up from where he sat, to slip out the back door of the inn. He had work to do, things to see.
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Eonwë
Vala, Council
Vala and proud member of the Valar Guild. A quarter century of Tolkien fun.
Posts: 1,324
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Post by Eonwë on Jan 3, 2006 16:19:48 GMT -5
Auros:
Entering the inn, Auros searched the poorly lit main room with his eyes for those he expected. Not here yet.
Taking a seat at an empty table where the light seemed strongest, Auros ordered a drink and sat in thought, contemplating what the others would bring as news once they arrived. Are the South ways clearer than the North? What does Sauron have in store for the Company? He may leave the borders of Rivendell unwatched for now, but it will not be long before he doubles his effort to see where the Ringbearer is going. Surely if he suspected more, we would be dead already, but he can't yet afford to make such large moves without surety of the situation. There has to be a safe path to Mordor, and time is limited.
Auros continued in thought as he waited for the other scouts to arrive.
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Varda
Vala, Council
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Post by Varda on Jan 4, 2006 20:02:36 GMT -5
Fainan:
Fainan and Haran continued through the various outdoor shops, some of these put up by traveling vendors. While picking up a treat here and there, and asking for a few items to be sent on to Mirkwood in the next shipment, Fainan made sure to ask about the roads. She noticed that Haran, pretending to be merely partying, had a canny way of collecting information while haggling or joking.
In a wonderful mood, she and the dwarf returned to the inn, ready to pass on what they had learned.
Auros was not there, but after asking around, they found where he had gone. A Noldo elf stood out in this area! Most had seen only Mirkwood elves, if any, so he caused comment.
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Varda
Vala, Council
Posts: 1,044
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Post by Varda on Feb 16, 2006 16:05:55 GMT -5
Fainan:
The Noldo sat in the light; Fainan smiled to see it, as it seemed to her that he had brought light with him into a world falling to darkness. For so many years had her beloved forest been fighting a long defeat against Dol Guldur, that she had not even realized the lack of real hope, until meeting it.
She just wished that she had better news.
"Hail, Lord Auros. We have been talking with the merchants concerning the hazards of their travel. Most ride with armed caravans against Orcs, and other hazards they can hardly describe, being like shadows of men on horses of nightmare. The Men say that the road to the Dwarves of Erebor is kept mostly safe, but only by frequent large patrols.
"Perhaps that would be sufficient for at least our journey? Or even for whatever your people have in mind? If you need go no farther than the Lonely Mountain, the road might be possible with a heavy escort up to this area. I would be willing to be in the escort of whatever Hope you bring." And guard it with my life, most willingly, she added silently.
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Eonwë
Vala, Council
Vala and proud member of the Valar Guild. A quarter century of Tolkien fun.
Posts: 1,324
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Post by Eonwë on Feb 26, 2006 20:33:03 GMT -5
Auros:
The other scouts had come and gone, but Auros remained at the table. Anar was deep into her waning now, and the light given by the hanging lamps was even more noticeable in the dim room than before.
The other scouts mentioned a quiet tenseness about the lands, but none spoke of being ambushed or attacked. There were rumours of orcs attacking caravans away from the watchful town guards, but none had attacked the city yet. At least the main paths are still clear then.
Of those whom had met with Auros, two were now going North to scout the Ered Mithrin, Mount Gundabad, and the borders of the former realm of Angmar on their return to Imladris, three were on their way back to Imladris from further East, and the others were on their way South the next mornig. Auros had still to visit the Lonely Mountain, or he could could've travelled as far as the East-West road with them.
As he sat in thought, he heard Fainan's voice over the clamor of the common room. Listening to Fainan's report, he rose from his seat. Her talk with the merchants had confirmed the reports by the other scouts.
He had probably learned as much about the situation here as he could without going to Erebor, but formalities and friendships must be upheld, and so on the next day, he would make the journey.
"It will suffice. I will not be more than half a day at Erebor, but perhaps, in the interest of good relations, you and Calion will be able learn something from the guards at Erebor. Haran may be able to deal with the craftsmen. It is likely not necessary we all appear before King Dain. Let us return to the inn and get some rest.
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ArPharazon
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King of the Land of the Star
Posts: 296
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Post by ArPharazon on Feb 27, 2006 9:47:25 GMT -5
Calion:
Night was coming as Calion made his way back to the inn. His visit with the blacksmith had been fruitful. They had exchanged secrets of the trade: although Calion wasn't a professional, he had learned much from the blacksmith in the halls of Thranduil, and was skilled in the forging of his own small weapons. So he had quite a bit to tell. Combining the knowledge of Mirkwood and Dale would allow for some small but interesting improvements, and maintaining a bond of friendship between the two realms could prove to be invaluable in the years to come.
For tensions had risen, as the smith explained. For many years Orcs had been few in the area, but now they were once more increasing in numbers, and the caravans travelling to or from Dale were no longer safe from attack. However, they seemed reluctant to act against or in the presence of the town's guards, a sign that they were not very numerous yet. But fear had struck in the once peaceful settlement, fear that war would soon be upon them.
Advanced scouts had discovered troop-movement in the East, armies of evil men slowly forming and mobilizing upon the far plains, although it was estimated that they wouldn't be ready for an open war for several months yet. The unobscured line of view in the plains had prevented the scouts from coming close, and they couldn't closely identify the banners the armies carried, but some men with exceptional view had described them as black with a red circle, maybe an eye. It was clear that they were in allegiance with Mordor, perhaps directly in the service of Sauron.
So he and the other blacksmiths had been busy forging weapons and mail for Dale's forces, as well as supplying outgoing caravans with equipment to defend themselves from raiding Orcs. The Dwarves of Erebor had been busy too, well aware of the threats, and trade between Dale and the Mountain was as intense as it had ever been, mostly weapons, armor, and trade-techiques.
So also the Dwarven daggers hanging on the wall. They weren't entirely in the style of Erebor, since Dwarves favored axes and hammers over daggers and swords, and they were lighter than any Dwarf-dagger would be, but the smith had definitely learned from them. The ornaments, the materials, the inherent strength, all typical for Erebor. After a long period of friendly negotiation and exchange of crafting advice, the smith had agreed to modify half a dozen of the daggers to the boomagger-concept for Calion's use. He had learned to work fast but thorough in these harsh times, and would have them ready in a day or two. Calion said that he might not have time to pick them up for a few days, but would be there as soon as time would let him. 'Need to know only', he thought, as he decided not to give any more information about what he would be doing. As he left the blacksmith, he sighed... not even he himself knew what was going to happen in the next few days.
Calion entered the inn, and explained what he had learned to this companions, who had just arrived as well.
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Varda
Vala, Council
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Post by Varda on Feb 27, 2006 11:14:55 GMT -5
Fainan:
So, it appeared that the party would soon be headed towards Erebor. One good Dwarf, such as Haran, or a few, all used to at least the Elves of Rivendell, made interesting companions, even fun in Haran's case. But a mountainful of insular Dwarves could make for a dicey situation. Keeping a good watch on the Noldo's back would be the job she intended to take, and not just against Orcs.
She felt confident with her bow from daily use, even if it was often only for hunting, and had made sure to have a large supply of arrow bags for refills. But she felt a need to practice with both knife and sword. Calion seemed to be the knife expert and Auros the sword. Perhaps Haran could suggest methods to confound an axeman. During the trip, perhaps she could learn from them all, and be an improved fighter against the encroachments of Dol Guldur. The best time to begin any new venture was... the present!
She walked over to the table where the others sat talking softly and smiled brightly at them. When they politely looked up, she said, "The evening is yet young. Would any care for a practice bout?"
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Eonwë
Vala, Council
Vala and proud member of the Valar Guild. A quarter century of Tolkien fun.
Posts: 1,324
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Post by Eonwë on Mar 22, 2006 0:48:05 GMT -5
Auros:
Auros found himself there again. The host about him was arrayed for war, speartips and swords gleaming in the light of Anar. Countless numbers in full armor, standing, alert, waiting for the horn to blow and signal the advance to the dark, towering peaks below which stood the vast armies of Sauron. Far off to his left was the army of Elendil, arrayed in armor forged in the style of Numenor the Downfallen, gleaming as brilliantly as that of the army among which Auros was but one of many: the army of Gil-Galad, High-King of the Noldor. In the distance to his right stood the army of Oropher, king of the Silvans of Greenwood the Great. From that direction came few gleams from sword or mail. The Silvans had arrived in great numbers, but equipped with such weapons as served in their realm. They were not prepared for open war. He had friends among the Sindar under King Oropher. Auros bowed his head and asked quietly that Elbereth would protect them.
Then there was a commotion coming from the direction of the Silvan Elves. He and those nearby him turned to look as the army of Oropher began to shout and charge, not waiting for the horn to signal the advance. The drew out ahead of the other armies. Tension began to fill Auros, and he could feel it in those around him, wanting to charge with his friends, but holding until the order was given. The archers upon the walls of the Black Gate drew their bows, arrows ready to fly once the Silvans were in range. Auros clenched the grip on his shield. An eternity seemed to pass as he watched the Silvans draw further out from the armies. Finally the horn blew, and in unison the remaining armies advanced toward the Black Gate with all the haste and fury they could muster....
Anar shone brightly through the window as Auros drew himself from the bed. His brief spar with Fainan had brought back memories of old friends as they honed their skills in Imladris for what they hoped would be the last war against Sauron. A vast and mighty army was gathered there, second only to that at the War of Wrath, or so he had been told. It was a greater host than he had ever seen, or could hope to see now. Many of his friends in Oropher's army had lost their lives in that battle, several in that very charge, some of them the most doughty warriors of Oropher's army. All the planning and preparation put in jeopardy by one person's foolishness.
We will succeed this time, if not by open war. I will do my part. Frodo will leave Imladris safely. Our fight will not have been in vain.
Pulling on his boots and grabbing his sword and cloak, Auros left his room and made his way to the parlour between his and the others' rooms for breakfast and to discuss the goal for the day: Erebor.
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Varda
Vala, Council
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Post by Varda on Mar 22, 2006 10:12:34 GMT -5
Fainan:
Was something wrong with her outfit? Auros seemed vaguely unhappy with it. This was the normal leather worn by Greenwood scouts and seemed to be in decent condition. She checked her quiver and bow. All seemed in order. She shrugged and let herself enjoy a breakfast that she had not had to cook herself, at Rivendell's expense.
"Haran seems to have disappeared again on his own business," she reported. "He was last seen speaking with another group of dwarves."
And we all know how well that went last time. She hoped he was healthy enough for whatever adventure he had been dragged into, and that he would come back without damage.
"Should we try to find another dwarf to ease our entry into Erebor? They may look with little favor on an all elf party, and they may not be able to tell a Noldo from an Avar. Mayhap they will think you all from the Greenwood!" She grinned at their expressions, but sat the straighter for the honor of her home.
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