Se Riddermarket of Approaching Autumn - CLOSED

[Aodh Hammerhelm]

OOC - @Elarith <<Sorry forgot taggy-tag!>>

[Taethowen]

Slitan Bur

Taeth frowned slightly as Elarith explained that the summer sausage would be spicy, and while she didn't mind spicy, she wasn't all too fond of spicy sausage. "I think I'll pass on that and take the rest of what I asked for, then," she answered. "The pork belly, cured ham, and blood sausage."

It seemed an awful lot, but she wasn't sure yet how quickly she wanted to travel to the Eastfold, or if she wanted to take her time on the journey. And anything leftover she could give to her steward and his family.

"How much will all that be?" she asked, reaching for her purse.

[The Good Hunter]

Sekith, the Spider
Golde ge Eorcanstan

Sekith raised her front legs threateningly toward the furry beast but it seemed to completely disregard her threat. A cold feeling of dread shuddered through the tiny spider. She was completely outmatched and she was completely exposed. She was doomed, and what’s worse, she would fail her master. Seven eyes darted in seven directions, each of them looking for an avenue of escape. The beast yowled lazily and licked its chops. Sekith shuddered in horror. She could see her fate; it was to be crunched and smooshed and eaten by this beast. There was no escape. No escape.

Then matters became worse. One of the giant two legs saw her and screamed, alerting everyone within hearing distance to the spy in their midst. Sekith was trapped. The great yawning void of the beast’s mouth opened. Fangs appeared, like swords of ivory.

In a final last-ditch effort to escape the cat, the spider skittered to the edge of the bookshelf as fast as her eight spindly legs would carry her. She sent a prayer to the great dark mother and sent out a strand of silk, her strongest, and aimed it directly at the two legs face. With any luck the commotion would be just what she needed to escape.

[Shivased]

The Copper Kettle

Settling the lid on the jar of tea she had just finished filling, Shivased set it on the shelf and reached for another. Her shelves were beginning to fill up as she created teas, and the shop was beginning to look as pleasant as it smelled. It was very satisfying, she thought with a smile and a look around at the now mostly-full shelves behind the counter. She still had room for some more varieties, so she could continue to be creative and blend more as the ideas struck her, but she had enough stock now to satisfy most customers.

She was reaching for the bowl of dried tea and fruit she was about to put in - a subtle blend of white tea with raspberry and lemon - when the door banged. She had opened it once the day had started to warm up, allowing fresh air and the sounds of the marketplace into her shop. Nobody coming in should have hit the door, not with it wide open. Looking up her eyes widened at the large grey rump coming towards her. It banged off the door and rattled a shelf full of tea strainers and pots, sending several strainers to the floor in a clatter. She froze for a minute, too shocked to react immediately. What in the name of Bema's underpants was a horse doing backing into her shop!?

Once the shock had worn off she hurried out from behind the counter. As she did, she caught sight of the rest of the horse and realized she recognized him. Arod NO! she shouted as she moved. There was no way he would fit into her shop. This wasn't the pet shop, it was far too small to fit a horse! She was too late, and by the time she got out from behind the counter he was already fully in the shop, filling the space. She watched as he turned his head, sniffing the air as if there were treats or something for him.

There wasn't really anywhere to move now, but she managed to squeeze up to the horse's head and reach for him. What are you doing, you crazy horse!? You don't belong in here! she scolded him sternly. Grabbing his halter she made to turn his head back towards the door, hoping to get him out before he got turned around or, more likely, stuck. Out with you before you get stuck, let's go! She glanced out at the street, wondering where his rider was. He was a Cavalry mount, and someone was going to get a dressing down for their inattentiveness.

[Allacan ob Burzum]

Arod the horse
The Copper Kettle @Shivased

He was busy snuffling at one of the shelves, knocking some of the containers about as his questing lips tried to locate the source of the fancy-smelling-hay, when he felt something shifting close by his rump and along his side, and heard a voice. He turned his head to gaze at the figure with one eye, and delightfully recognised her as the First Marshal. He reached around to snuffle at her in greeting, trying to turn his body in the two-small store so he could face her easier and accidentally knocking another shelf that shunted awkwardly, nothing displaced but it was threatening to empty its contents on the floor if it were bumped again.

Then the woman took him by the halter and tried to pull him back out the door. Wait a second; this wasn't how it was supposed to go down - he was certain he'd gotten the reversing manoeuvre correct, he expected to at least be allowed an opportunity to peruse the goods before he was turfed back outside. He hesitated for a moment, tugging the halter out of her hand to lick up one of the sample bowls she had laid out, before eventually acquiescing to her demands even as he crunched happily on his stolen mouthful of fruit tea-leaves. It tasked surprisingly fruity for something so dry, and reminded him of the time he had eaten something foolishly put out in the stables reception by an over-eager stablehand - powpurry or something similar he thought they called it.

When she finally got outside he shook himself vigorously, sneezed loudly and then lifted a foreleg to rub at his nose to ease the irritation of accidentally inhaled some of his stolen tea. Then he glanced up the street, seemingly dismissing the presence of the First Marshal now he had been liberated from her slightly dishevelled but not too badly disordered tea-shop, and eyed the other stores as though deciding which of these establishments would be the next place to grace with his presence.

Allacan Edit OOC - Corrected a very unfortunate typographical error at the request of my fellow role-player. "Sample bowels" - nobody needs that mental image )

[Elarith]

Amethyst Copperpick at Golde ge Eorcanstan

Mal reappeared with toast, declaring there were no biscuits to be found. "No biscuits! Whatever do these Rohirrim dunk into their tea?" Amethyst wondered aloud, taking the thickest slice of toast from the plate. She nibbled on it whilst pondering how they had come to be here. "Yes, could be far worse. Except for my whack on the head I've been rather enjoying myself here," she said, then took a larger bite. The toast and honey was an adequate substitute in a biscuit-less tea break.

She almost choked when Mal mentioned their smithy back in Erebor and the debt they were working off. Her eyes watered for a few seconds, and she gulped down some tea. "Oh Mal, why'd you have to go bringing that up?" she said, dabbing her eyes with the corner of a handkerchief. "I was having such a merry time away from all that nonsense. I was so angry when I saw you back in the Throne Room, come to remind me about it."

Her brother was silent - Amethyst looked across to see what was the matter before he flung himself behind her chair yelling about spiders. She turned in the direction he was pointing, and received a few strands of spider silk straight in the face. The dwarf spluttered and wiped furiously with her handkerchief to get rid of it. "Oh the horrid little thing! I was going to catch it in a teacup, but after that I'm going to squash it with my boot." She looked back in annoyance at where the spider had been. Where had the eight-legged wretch gone? Well, if she didn't catch it, Krystalle probably would...

@Aodh Hammerhelm @Vampire Bob

Elarith at Slitan Bur

Elarith smiled as Taeth said she would forego the summer sausage. "A wise choice. Best not to have an upset stomach when you're travelling," she said, and put the sausage in a spare tray. She finished putting up the pork belly, then measured out the cured ham and a good chunk of blood sausage. She wrapped them all in separate pieces of parchment, and set them on the counter top. "Right, so that's 8 pence for the pork belly, 10 for the ham and 6 for the blood sausage..." she looked upwards, working out the mathematics. "I make that 2 silvers exactly. Which is fortuitous, isn't it?" she said, patting the pocket on her new apron so that the coins clinked together. "Well, safe travels, and thanks again for the apron," she said, swishing it from side to side.

@Taethowen ((Not sure exactly how the monetary system works but went with 12 pence / copper = 1 silver))

[Taethowen]

Slitan Bur

Taeth watched quietly as Elarith gathered her requested items, measured them out, and wrapped them up. When Elarith came to up to the total of two silvers for the day's purchase, Taeth couldn't help but laugh softly. "Sounds perfect!"

As she retrieved her purchases, placing them in the sack she'd bought along, her eyes grew a touch sad as Elarith wished her safe travels. Her journey was supposed to have been one filled with work, but still spent with people she cared about it. Now, she would be going alone... and the news she'd learned the night before made her dread the days of travel spent alone on the road. She would have too much time with her own thoughts, and no distractions.

"Thank you," Taeth managed to say, forcing a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "I'm glad the apron is satisfactory. I suppose... I will see you in a few weeks, probably either at the Dragon Room or the Hornburg. Westu hal!"

With that, she slipped out of the shop.

@Elarith

The Streets

Taeth ducked into an alley for just a moment to take a few deep breaths and refocus on the tasks she needed to accomplish, rather than what awaited her at the end of them. "Just one thing at a time, Taeth," she whispered. "That's all you have to do right now."

A few minutes later, with a calmer disposition, but sadness still in her eyes, Taeth stepped out into the Riddermarket again. She made a quick stop at the grocer's for carrots, apples, some potatoes, and hard cheese (Thali's shop didn't seem to be open yet, and Taeth was honestly not sure she could have faced her friend without breaking down in tears), and then realized the last place she needed to stop was the post office, before heading to the stables. She'd already packed her bag and left it with Gefyrst's tack.

She had no need--or, rather, desire--to return to her house. Too much heartache had happened there in the last day, and she did not want to face it alone. Better to return later, when Eldreda's presence would be a light there, and her own heart in less turmoil.

The sun was barely halfway up the morning sky by the time she finished and made her way out of the Riddermarket.

[Aodh Hammerhelm]

Golde ge Eorcanstan: NPC ~ Malachite Copperstick

Amethyst was unfazed by the presence of a kop in the store, Mal not so. He cowered behind his sister, waiting for the hideous beast to show itself. It was sure to be huge - and hairy - like the awful creatures that had once captured Thorin and company.

Mal shrilled again, he'd caught a glimpse of a set of shiny eyes (Sekith) peering over the top shelf. Something sticky and loathsome struck him full in the face. He stumbled away from his sister's chair, clawing at his web masked face, then backpedaled as his belly pressed up against the kiln.

The counter was too high for a Dwarf to see over, but at just the right level to stop his retreat. Solid oak landed a punishing blow on the back of Mal's head. He toppled forward and dropped to the floor with a loud groan.

His last thought, as he slipped into unconsciousness, was of Amethyst, struggling to free herself from a tangled web spun by a Corpulent spider.

---
@Elarith @Vampire Bob

[Dimcairien Luiniel]

Éomund

At his inquiry, Grimthain assured him that all was well, though he admitted that he wished the bubble of emotion had occurred in a more private location. Éomund could fully agree with that and was relieved to see his uncle looking genuinely happy for the first time in many years.

As Grimthain began to discuss all the different ways he could improve the way his sword hung, Éomund let out a slight chuckle. Of course his uncle would know of a million and one ways to fix the problem. He glanced down at the way the sword hang, relieved to know that he had been attaching it correctly after the First Marshal's demonstration. The weight still felt very strange, but he knew he would get used to it in time. "No, it doesn't hurt," Éomund replied, "it simply feels awkward."

As his uncle mentioned Æthelwigend Tord, Éomund looked up and glanced in the direction Grimthain was indicating. He had heard about the man, but hadn't yet had a chance to meet him, having not yet been sent out to the Eastmark fortress. "I believe so," he answered, "I'm not sure who leads my corðor, but I'll find out when I finish sword training." He shook his head at Grimthain's inquiry in regards to friends. He had also been a shy lad, and while he was slowly becoming more outgoing, he had yet to actually get to know people. The only Cavalry members he had had conversations longer than a few sentences with were Ama and Walpurga. He knew he needed to get to know others in his Éored, but talking to knew people was so hard.

Soon after his stomach rumbled, Grimthan's also let out a cry of hunger. At the mention of breakfast, Éomund felt his mouth water, once again inwardly cursing his eagerness for hurrying away from the barracks without grabbing some form of sustenance. But the thought of buying food and eating it somewhere in the town slightly unnerved him. But when Grimthain mentioned a heavy coin purse and wanting it to be lighter, Éomund breathed a sigh of relief. He should have known that costs wouldn't be an issue for his uncle. The man had always been so generous and had gifted Éomund with so many wonderful experiences.

He was about to suggest the Copper Kettle when he heard a shout come from the vicinity of that very building. He glanced over and gasped in amazement and horror as someone (a moment later recognised as the First Marshal) leading a horse out of the tea shop. He looked over at his uncle in bewilderment. "That's odd," he managed to say once he had found his voice again. "But some tea and a bite to eat sound wonderful."

It was very strange to be this relaxed around his uncle. Ever since the rather disastrous incident from when he was ten, their relationship had been very professional, boarding on strained. The letter had offered some degree of explanation, but Éomund had never been able to bring himself to reply, other than to thank his uncle for the writing supplies he had received some weeks later and to assure him that the mounds had been visited. Other than that, he had done his best to forget that the incident had ever happened, but had flung himself full-force into trying to become a man his father and Grimthain could be proud of. Things had improved slightly over the last four years, but the easy camaraderie of his childhood was practically non-existent. But now, things were beginning to be different. He was slowly realising that his uncle was still proud of him despite all his failings and that he could still look up to and trust the man who was his father in all but blood. He fingered the letter that was in his pocket, wondering when it would be appropriate to try once again to hand it to his uncle.

Together the two began to make their way towards the Copper Kettle and hopefully some delicious food.

[Gwai]

Bits & Pieces

Finishing her apple, Gwai tossed the core into the trash can behind the desk and grabbed the broom propped in the corner of the small back room. She walked back outside and swiftly swept the front steps, trying to plan her day. The first priority would be to no doubt pick up the silver figure from Cal and Sheemie. Hopefully they would have it ready.

She finished her sweeping, and, walking inside, grimaced at the numbers of crates she needed to unpack still. She really did need to put out an advertisement for an assistant sometime soon. She put the broom back in the storage room, and dug around the back of the small counter for some more money, as she still owed Sheemie and Cal the other half of the fee. Normally she would have not hesitated to carry that amount with her in the Riddermarket, but after the recent stabbing, she decided erring on the side of caution was appropriate. While she didn't want to alarm any of the shoppers by wearing her sword about, she did not want to be unarmed either. She thought quickly. She kept a sheathed dagger behind the counter at all times, and it could easily to strapped to her shin for easy access. It seemed a good compromise. She quickly strapped it to her leg, ensured her long skirt disguised any notice of it, and set out toward the jewelry store, purse in hand.

Golde ge Eorcanstan

She found herself looking about cautiously as she walked to the other store, and was almost disappointed to see nothing suspicious. Putting the recent events to rest would be a relief, but it seemed they were not a mystery that would be quickly solved.

Gwai pushed open the door to Golde ge Eorcanstan, and took a step inside. She did not see Sheemie or Cal, but instead there were two Dwarves, one of whom she recognized as Amethyst from the fashion show, the other unconscious on the floor.

"Are you all right?" she asked, albeit uselessly as he was unconscious, hurrying in to kneel next to the injured dwarf. "What happened, Amethyst?" Gwai asked, concerned. She was relieved the stranger seemed to be breathing, but worried the unknown assassin had struck again.

OOC--Apologies for the delayed response, I was out of town!

@Aodh Hammerhelm @Elarith @Vampire Bob @Calimir

[Allacan ob Burzum]

Grimthain, human, he/him
Visiting the Copper Kettle with Éomund (@Dimcairien Luiniel) and @Shivased

"Good idea" he said to Éomund, grateful for the opportunity to greet the First Marshal off duty and hopefully help her in dealing with what appeared to be a rogue horse. "Is all well, First Marshal Shivased?" he asked as headed over to the Copper Kettle shop, stepping up to other the side of the horse and instinctively took the horse by its halter to relieve her of its burden. "Here, let me take him and see him properly tied up. Éomund, why don't you help the Marshal get her store back in order while I sort this runaway out?" he said with a mischievous wink to his ward as he led the horse away to the nearest hitching post, chuckling a little to himself as he abandoned the younger man to the social awkwardness of being stuck with the cavalry's highest commander all on his own.

He borrowed some of the length of rope hanging over another's horse's saddle, dropping a coin into the saddlebag in lieu of compensation for the borrowing, and then tied off Arod - instinctively using a highwayman's hitch, missing the intelligent gleam of the cream-coloured horse that watched him knowingly. Then he left the horse there, not glancing over his shoulder for a moment, having no reason to think the beast wouldn't be secure. He took his time headed back to the shop, lurking in the doorway for a bit to relish any awkwardness inside before choosing the optimal moment to rescue Éomund

---

Arod
Escaping from the hitching post outside Copper Kettle and heading over to Treowwyrhta (@Winddancer)

He reluctantly allowed the confident man to lead her and make attempts to tie him up, attempting to pull away once more discovering the rider was well versed at keeping a firm grip on a horse's halter. But if a horse could have smirked then Arod would have done so when he recognised the hand movements and folding of rope as he was attached to the post. He watched the man carefully with one eye as he left to return to the shop, waiting patiently until he had disappeared from sight before turning back to the rope. Bending down to reach below the long wooden beam, with his mouth he carefully (and with some familiarity, suggesting this was not the first time he had done this) got his teeth around the part of the rope hanging down from the post, and tugged. After only a few moments of effort, the knotwork came undone, leaving only a short length of rope hanging from his halter and Arod otherwise liberated.

Another horse might have let the freedom go to their head, and ruin the whole thing by bolting. But Arod had run beside at least one mearas, and had learned a few skills at being clever and cunning. After glancing about to make sure he was not being observed, he instead proceeded along the hitching post and repeated the process again, and again, and again...

It took the less intelligent equines a few moments to realise they were free of their ties, and by then Arod was moving away. He timed his passing of the tea shop for when some pedestrians paused to look in its windows, so as to hopefully screen his escape from those within. For extra measure, as he passed by this stall he turned his head fully away to hide his face, which meant that anyone with keen enough vision to spot him beyond the lurking window-shoppers would be treated to the absurd image of a headless horse passing by! By the time the other horses started to scatter and provide the distraction he had hoped for, Arod had made it as far as Treowwyrhta and halted at the attractive smell of freshly cut wood reached his nose. He back-stepped back to the threshold of the shop, turning his head to poke his nose through the door, cocking an ear curiously at the sounds within.

OOC @anyone who wants to join me in some silliness - Arod just released a number of random horses from the hitching post. Feel free to join me in an equine takeover of the Riddermarket if you wish; just pick a horse and join the fun! @Taethowen (I doubt this is what you had in mind for the run-up to your game, but thought I'd poke you just in case it does work for you.)

[Elarith]

Amethyst Copperpick at Golde ge Eorcanstan

As Amethyst slipped off a heeled boot and cast about for the spider, Mal shrieked again. "Where is it? Where? Do you see it?" she asked, looking frantically in the direction he'd been facing. Behind her she heard a thud, followed quickly by a groan and an even louder thud. The dwarf span back round, boot in hand. "Mal!" she yelped, dropping her boot. She hobbled over to him as the shop door opened and Gwai stepped in.

"Oh, Gwai, darling! I'm afraid I might have to beg for your assistance," Amethyst said, gesturing to the prone dwarf on the floor, hands fluttering. "I'm absolutely hopeless with anything more than a paper cut. This is my brother Mal, and the silly sod seems to have knocked himself out. There was a spider, you see," she said, hoping that the Rohirric woman would indeed understand. "Shall I fetch someone? Or something?"

@Aodh Hammerhelm @Gwai @Vampire Bob

Elarith at Slitan Bur

Elarith made a swift note in her ledger of the sale whilst Taeth bagged her goods up. "Oh, more than satisfactory," she said, gesturing to the apron. "It's lovely to have one of my own again." She'd brought little back to Edoras from the family sheepholding in the Westfold. It would be nice not to have to borrow something.

She straightened up again. "See you soon. Ferthu hal!" The door closed, leaving her alone in the shop. Elarith yawned again. She was feeling a little livelier now she'd had a customer to serve. She stretched, and pulled the ledger towards herself. Ælfric had never gotten the hang of accounts, and she'd been looking forwards to going through the Slitan Bur records and sorting them out. She decided she'd treat herself to tidying them up whilst she waited for any other customers to come along.

[Winddancer]

Treowwyrhta - Æric and Edda

The shriek could probably be heard half way across the market, though it sure as heck got Æric's attention. Dropping his saw on the ground without any thought to it getting broken in the process, he bolted across the backyard and ran into the small shop. He quickly navigated through the 'kitchen', pushing a chair aside uncaringly and ripped the door to the main shop open. His blue eyes immediately surveyed the scene, darting over every area looking for the source of what had made his little girl scream like that.

But all he saw as he stumbled into the room was a horse. A horse? What the..? Seeing that Edda was alright, stood by the door and happily stroking the horses nose as she chattered to it, he felt like throwing up. Rubbing his temple with one hand, he leaned on the high table that was used to draw his plans on and let out a ragged breath. He really needed to teach his daughter not to scream like that.

"Edda.." was all he managed before she cut him off with her excited chatter.

"Look Papa! It's a horse!! It just came up to the door and poked its head in!! It came to say hi, to me!!"

Scratching his head, Æric looked at the horse, confusion lit on his face as he tried to work out why there was a horse poking it's head in the door. "I uh.. can see that.."

"Papa! Oh we have apples, pleeeeeease can I give it one?? Pleeeeeease??" Jumping up and down, she ran towards the kitchen before he even answered, leaving her father looking between his daughter and the horse wondering if he had lost his mind. When she returned with a big red apple, he raised his hand as if he was going to say no, but with a sigh he let it drop and merely watched as she headed back to the horse to offer the apple to it.

[Shivased]

The Copper Kettle

The horse was not cooperating, shifting around and still, apparently, trying to get further into her shop, or explore, or...something. Whatever it was, it was not helpful. It rattled the other small shelf in the front area, this one full of teapots. Shivased watched, praying to whoever would listen that they didn't go tumbling and thankfully was answered, as they rattled a bit but didn't fall. She heaved a sigh and went back to work, eventually coaxing Arod out of the shop after he slurped tea and dry leaves from the bowls she had set out and made quite a mess. She continued to look around, hoping to see a bashful wigend with a lead rope looking for their missing mount. They were going to hear it, that was for sure. Not only had the horse come into a shop, but the First Marshal's shop, of all shops. The poor dryht or wigend in charge of the horse would be feeling very sorry for themselves when she was done.

She was just grumbling as the horse sneezed and used it's foreleg to scratch and was about to start waving to get Jacen's attention across the street to bring her a lead rope or leash, when Grimthain and Eomund appeared, the former taking Arod's halter. Thank you, she told him and released her own hold on the animal. I have no idea what's going on, he just barged in. Unfortunately I don't keep lead ropes or bridles in a tea shop. She looked up and down the street as Grimthain borrowed someone's rope from their saddle bag and made to tie Arod up. If you find anyone missing their mount, let me know. They have some explaining to do.

She headed back into her shop and looked around. I don't need any help cleaning up, really. He wasn't able to make much of a mess. Just some knocked over things and bowls to be cleaned, she said to Eomund who she assumed had followed her into the shop as she picked up the knocked-over items from the shelf and collected the bowls, setting them on a shelf behind the counter to be washed later.Now, I'm going to assume you two were headed here when you saw the commotion. Is there anything I can get you? She looked out the window as she talked, and her eyes narrowed suspiciously. There was a group of shoppers passing by, but why did it look like there were a lot of horses milling about out there?

[Aodh Hammerhelm]

Golde ge Eorcanstan: NPC ~ Malachite Copperstick

"Are you all right?" ... "Shall I fetch someone? Or something?"

Mal opened an eye and moved his head tentatively. He saw a stockinged foot and floorboards stretching off into the shadows under the workbench. There was no sign of the dreaded kop, or any of its creepy strands of web.

The Dwarf rolled onto his back, grimacing at the throbbing this action elicited. When his vision cleared he saw the face of woman (Gwai); she knelt beside him eyeing him with concern.

"Dolerite Candlestick at your service," Mal said to the dark haired Rohir, thrusting a hand out in greeting, and oblivious to the irony of his greeting.

It would be some time before normal service was resumed.

--
@Elarith @Gwai

[Amadhrill]

Æthelwigend Tord
Streets and Liason office

---

Æthelwigend of the Eastmark Éored

«Pleased to meet you, my lady Lailyn.» Tord said in his deep voice, after Lailyn had introduced herself, he noted her faint smile and for an instance there was a smile in his blue eyes. He nodded thoughtfully at her words about the recent happenings.

«It is good to meet you too, dryhtguma Dicun.» He glanced at the paper in Dicun's hand and at his insignia. «My orders are to be at your service, lady, and patrol the Riddermarket. Are there any services you need?»

Then he turned to the Meduseldian. «You are of the Meduseld eored, dryhtguma. Have you patrolled the Market much? I am an Eastmarker and we are more used to patrolling the open plains or the small town of Aldburg. Nor have I been much here in the Riddermarket for a good many years, I expect you are more familiar in these parts than I am.»

He watched the dryhtguma carefully, he looked young and fresh out of training. Perhaps Tord had looked the same back then, now he was in his late thirties, his face lined from a life riding the plains and serving his King and Country. He had his own way of testing the fresh recruits, dryhtgumas, and sperewigend. Would they take control and lead, or would they sink back and wait for orders from their elders or superior, when given the option? He took a few steps, peering around the room to see what he was dealing with, and glanced out.

There he could see his horse. The horse he had tied to the hitching post outside. Now, the horse was trotting around by himself, aparently without anyone attending it either. "Someone is trying to steal my horse!"

He yelled and bolted out, ready to draw his sword

@Lail @Aethelu (OOC: Edited in the last bit because I didn't see it was a whole new page up )

[Lail]

Lailyn, Cavalry Liaison Office
Lailyn blinked when Tord addressed her as ‘my lady’ and she shifted her feet uncomfortably. Well, I suppose this is why I'm here, she thought. To be a less formal face for people to talk to. She had a great deal of respect for all Cavalry wigends but she could do without all the formalities.

“Are there any services you need?” he asked. "Thank you,” she said with a smile. “Unless you know where to find a bunch of unburned barrels in this city, no, there is nothing I need..."

Just after he explained his position in the Eastmark and asked Dicun about the market (she did not envy the dryhtguma his position one bit), she noticed some kind of disturbance outside. Lailyn raced out the door after Tord whose horse appeared to have slipped out of the hitching post. “Um...wouldn’t they ride your horse if they were stealing it?” she asked Tord before thinking maybe she shouldn't question the Æthelwigend but it seemed obvious to her.

Then she heard...a scream in the distance? She inclined her head as if listening. "Did either of you hear that?" She asked them with narrowed eyes. "I thought I heard someone scream…" It was hard to tell beneath the chatting market-goers, trundling carts, horse-hooves and other noises but she was sure she heard something. There appeared to be a few other horses wandering about causing commotion and she wondered if it was some kind of distraction to cover up a real crime.

A series of possible images flicked through her mind: something spooking the horses, another stabbing, someone finding a victim… So she stepped forward and addressed the two soldiers with more authority than she ever thought could muster. “I’ll take care of your horse while you go find out what’s going on.” She was certainly in no position to tell anyone in the Cavalry what to do, but given the circumstances, she did not want any time to be wasted if someone was in trouble.

@Aethelu @Amadhrill

[Gwai]

Golde ge Eorcanstan

Gwai blinked as Amethyst explained there had been a spider, in an explanation of Malachite’s predicament. “I completely understand,” she assured Amethyst. “If there had been a snake I would have done the exact same thing!” she said, shuddering as she thought about it.

Just then Mal’s eyes opened, although he looked confused, in pain, and introduced himself as Dolerite. “He probably has a concussion,” she said, concerned. “We could ask one of the hælends to come tend to him, but I doubt there’s anything they could do,” she commented to Amethyst. “Could you get him a cool rag for his head?” she asked, before turning to the injured dwarf. She held up two fingers in front of Mal. “How many fingers do you see?” she asked him, not sure where she would go from there if he was wrong.

---

Brightfyr, joining Arod at Treowwyrhta

The horse rumor mill (the Afternoon Snort) was quite active, and it was only a few minutes before word reached Brightfyr in the cavalry paddock that Arod was exploding the Riddermarket, and asking for friends to join him. Brightfyr swiftly picked the latch of the paddock gate, a trick he had learned some time ago, but only rarely used so Gwai wouldn’t become suspicious, and most likely blame a wigend instead of him. He could have jumped the gate, but that was much more obvious, and he would be much more likely to get in trouble.

He trotted the shirt distance to the Riddermarket and looked around for Arod, an old friend whom he had not seen in years, but remembered well as he was always up to something fun.

He found Arod with his head in a shop, a young girl offering a juicy red apple to him. What an excellent day to have escaped! Brightfyr thought, having a particular soft spot for apples. He was glad to have Arod back to orchestrate things like this. He tried to cram in next to a Arod for an apple, but the doorway was too small, so he waited behind the other horse for a moment.

@Aodh Hammerhelm @Elarith @Winddancer @Allacan ob Burzum

[Allacan ob Burzum]

Arod
At the doorway to Treowwyrhta (@Winddancer and @Gwai)

His ears flickered at the high pitched screaming, and he almost went to retreat backwards out of the shop. But then he saw the little human dashing towards him with a big smile on her face and reconsidered. When she reached his side, he companionably snuffled her all over to check if there was any wetness or smell of blood to explain her loud cries and was surprised to not find any. Whatever the reasons for her mewling she had now ceded those noises for much more normal chattering as she stroked at his nose.

He recognised the word ‘apples’ and noticed there was another person in the building. He lifted his head to consider Æric carefully, noting that the man stood proudly. This must be his territory, Arod thought. And maybe the little one was his foal. He nickered companionably at Æric and stomped a hoof by way of respectful greeting, then ducked his head down to snuffle at Edda’s neck and chest, lips soft and enquiring, before withdrawing in surprise when she once again made those loud, high pitched noises of... delight? Happiness? He wasn’t sure but she seemed to be smiling at the same time, so it didn’t look like she was upset. Moreover, she seemed very friendly and keen as she dashed away to somewhere, and he definitely was enjoying the attention, but the loudness grated against his sensitive ears just a little too much.

He heard hoofsteps behind him and lifted his head to peer behind him with one eye, recognising Brightfyr with a welcoming neigh that sounded so much louder in the small confines of the shop.

He paused, and considered this a moment - neighing in small buildings made you sound louder? A mischievous twinkle appeared in his eye, but after considering Æric again he decided this was not the best place to experiment with it, especially if there were the potential for apples. Instead, he stepped carefully backwards and withdrew out through the doorway of the shop to stand beside Brightfyr, shielding his body from some of the streetward inspection with the large cavalry horse’s bulk, and allowing the little, loud person a chance to admire both horses. A moment later she returned, carrying a big, juicy red apple, and Arod regretted his decision to share as he eyed the apple and then Brightfyr a touch competitively, wondering which of the two horses would Edda would decide to give the apple to.

[Winddancer]

Æric and Edda with two majestic horses (Arod and Brightfyr)

Edda stopped dead in her tracks when the huge horse stepped aside and another horse appeared behind it, her jaw dropping open and eyes bugging out. While horses were common, they had never owned one themselves and to have two majestic horses come to visit her, was almost more excitement than her tiny body could contain. But immediately she saw the issue. Even though only four, she knew one apple was not enough for two horses and her face fell as she desperately tried to decide which horse to give the offered apple to. Should it go to the horse that had first made it's entrance, seeking her out in their tiny shop, as of course it came to visit her specifically. Or should it go to the second horse that seemed to be waiting patiently in line?

However her fears of disappointing one of them were immediately disspelled when her father showed up right behind her, holding the bowl of apples in his strong hands. "Oh Papa! Thank you!!" Bouncing with joy, she offered the first apple to the first horse that had arrived as that seemed like the proper thing to do and then headed back to grab another delicious red apple to offer it to the second horse.

Just like his daughter's Æric's eyes bugged out when he saw another horse behind the first one. Obviously something must have happened for such majestic horses to be running free, the bridles showing that they were owned by someone. Thinking it was probably a good idea to keep them from running rampant, he quickly moved to the kitchen and got the bowl of apples as while his intention was to keep the horses from running away, he could at the very least enjoy the joy his daughter was experiencing at being allowed to feed them. As he watched her with them, he realised it was proabably time for her to learn how to ride, trying not to let his fears of her getting hurt from stiffling her.

"Papa! Aren't they boootiful!?" she said, a flood of giggles filling the area as the horse snuffled at her neck and back. "Haha Papa! He is tickling me!"

[Elarith]

Amethyst Copperpick at Golde ge Eorcanstan

Though fresh on the scene, Gwai didn't seem to need much further explanation than that a spider had been the cause of Mal being floored and herself being bootless. Actually, her foot was getting a bit cold now, and the spider itself was nowhere in sight. Amethyst slipped the boot back on.

Mal suddenly rolled over and blurted out a name. Amethyst sighed heavily and ran a hand over her face. "Oh dear. A brave attempt, brother, but not quite right," she told him, patting him softly on his outstretched hand. Gwai suggested a cool rag, and she nodded - it would give her something to do to feel she was being of use, anyway. The dwarf went into the back of the shop, keeping an eye out for the filthy spider - curse its eight hairy legs! - as she went, and found a clean cloth. She dunked it in some cold water, wrang it out, then brought it back through. Mal was still prostrate but at least being awake was a good sign, surely? She shook her head slightly as Gwai was holding up fingers in front of him. "Counting was
never his strong suit, mind," she said, handing over the dampened cloth.

@Aodh Hammerhelm @Gwai

[Aodh Hammerhelm]

Golde ge Eorcanstan: NPC ~ Malachite Copperstick

The Dwarf, formerly known as Malachite Copperstick, gazed up at the shapely hand of the woman who knelt beside him (Gwai) for a long silent time. He heard footsteps recede, the squeak of a door and the sound of water splashing in a bowl.

His sister appeared, and peered over his inquisitor's shoulder. Amethyst's gentle joshing focused Mal on the question he'd been asked - a matter which seemed as complex as cutting a flawless gem.

""See..? How many fingers?" he said at last to Gwai. "Why, the number it takes to measure a wee dram… The same number as you have eyes in your lovely face… FOUR! You're a pretty lass, aren't you, but where's your beard - are you follicly challenged?

Ah, and speaking of drams, is there nothing about the place that would take the edge off a pounding headache - a good dash of brandy or whisky, perhaps?"

--
@Elarith @Gwai

[Aethelu]

Cavalry Liaison Office
Dicun

Dicun almost found himself at a loss for words as Tord spoke, he had a confidence Dicun could only dream of having. He felt almost embarrassed to admit the truth to him, but with a gulp he did. "I have only recently finished training, this patrol is my first real assignment as a member of the cavalry. I do not come from Edoras so I do not know the city too well yet." He took a breath to consider his next words carefully. He had no desire to provoke the ire of his senior. On the other hand, he didn't want to show himself up as some young welp who faded into the shadows at the first sign of trouble. He'd proven himself in training, he'd even proven himself during the recent cavalry exercise. He wasn't sure of many others who would take on badgers wearing just breeches and give one a barefooted kick to the head. "Seems to me, if neither of us know the city so well, it might be an idea for us to get to know it better first. Take some time to get to know the lay of the land, so to say. If anything comes up as we patrol, I'm sure we can see to it. How does that sound?"

As he finished, he felt a little frustrated to realise Tord wasn't even looking at him. He was looking out the window, so Dicun turned to see what was so interesting. Where those horses just wandering around? It seemed Tord's horse was among them as he began to hurry out of the door. Dicun turned to Lailyn as she spoke. "You know, now you say it, that did sound like a scream didn't it? Maybe one of these horse got where he shouldn't have." He said it with smile, hoping to be reassuring given the more recent events in the Riddermarket. He took another look out of the window to see Arlette was loose too, but she seemed less interested in wandering off. "If we get them tied up again, we would be most grateful if you could keep watch of them. Thank you again Lailyn." Dicun hurried to the door after Tord, but not before calling back. "I won't forget to visit the armoury, I promise." He winked, then entered into no small amount of chaos outside.

It seemed several horses had managed to free themselves and were now happily wandering around the market. There were no riders in sight. Who would do such a thing? He felt a chill run down his spine, what if this was a distraction? What if someone planned to cause further mayhem? Thankfully, Arlette was still stood by her post, admiring the view it seemed. He grabbed her, tying her up once more, with a pet and a promise of treats for good behaviour. "Tord," he called out. "If you can tie your horse up again, Lailyn will watch him. We need to find out what's going on." He scanned around the market trying to think of the best place to start or if he could see where all these horses had come from. What a way to start his first cavalry patrol.

@Amadhrill @Lail

[Gwai]

Golde ge Eorcanstan

Amethyst soon returned with the cool rag, cautioning Gwai numbers were not Mal’s forté. Gwai agreed, when he soon told her the two fingers she was holding up was four, the same as her eyes, before asking if she was follicly challenged. Gwai blinked. “Yes, that is most certainly an apt description,” she agreed to her lack of beard.

She sat back on her heels. "While I was holding up two fingers, if you can compose statements such as “follicly challenged”, hopefully you’ll just have a headache for a day or two, and no permanent damage!” she said cheerfully, rising to her feet and offering her hand to assist Mal up.

“I wouldn’t say no to a dash of something strong either,” she commented, although she wasn’t sure what was in the shop, and even less sure what a hælend would say to drinking after a head injury, but surely one couldn’t hurt. She didn’t generally drink this early, but the last several days had been fairly stressful. She looked from Mal to Amethyst. “But where are Sheemie and Cal?”

---

Brightfyr, with Arod, at Treowwyrhta

Brightfyr returned Arod's look as the young human brought just one apple. One apple, two horses. Math was not his strong suit, but he realized this was an issue. Fortunately, the taller human soon came with an entire bowl of apples.

He stepped forward and gently took the apple from the girl's hand, crunching happily. Apples were one of his favorites, and he had very few lately, Gwai having been muttering something about "getting fat and lazy" and "need a serious diet" last week when he had needed a breather in between training routines. In his defense, it was summer, and if he had a few extra apples, well, surely they were well deserved after such a long cavalry career.

As much as he was enjoying the apples, Brightfyr was a bit concerned about the taller human. He looked responsible, and therefore likely to try to temper their activities. He nickered at Arod. Perhaps they should move on. He wouldn't say no to taking the little girl with them for their adventures either, since she had the bowl of apples.

@Aodh Hammerhelm @Elarith @Allacan ob Burzum @Winddancer

[Dimcairien Luiniel]

Éomund
Copper Kettle with @Shivased and @Allacan ob Burzum (Grimthain)

They had no sooner arrived at The Copper Kettle, when Grimthain took the horse by the bridle and finished leading it out of the shop and towards the hitching post, leaving him alone with the First Marshal in a somewhat dishevelled shop. His uncle knew just how much he disliked being in the presence of strangers (or authority figures he didn’t know) and had just gone and done so. With the First Marshal no less! But then, she was the marshal of his Éored and Éomund knew that logically it would not do to be nervous around her, but logic didn’t always cooperate. He nervously bit his lip as he waited for her to turn around. "D-do you need help?" he stammered, still inwardly cursing Grimthain for leaving him in this extremely awkward situation. Upon hearing a negative reply, he couldn’t help but let out a small sigh of relief. The shop did look a bit of a mess though with a few bowls on the ground and splashes of tea everywhere. Éomund bent down and picked up a bowl that was close to his feet. As he handed it to the First Marshal, she asked what their purpose was for coming to the shop.

“Well, we were thinking of getting some tea and a bite to eat,” Éomund began to explain, then stopped. To the average observer, the fact that he, a Dryhtguma of the Eastmark quite obviously knew the Æthelwigend of Meduseld would likely be odd. “We’re from the same town,” he concluded, deciding the leave the personal history alone for the present. Perhaps someday more of their particular backstory would be revealed or someone would put two and two together and discover that Grimthain was the mysterious uncle that he was often mentioning.

“D-do you know why th-that horse was in your sh-shop?”

Just at that moment, Éomund turned and to his astonishment, he noticed that there were several horses now loose in the Riddermarket. "What in the name of Bema?" he muttered.

[Amadhrill]

Æthelwigend Tord
Streets and Liason office

---

Æthelwigend of the Eastmark Éored

Tord stopped dead in his run and turned to Lailyn, a flush of crimson red making its way up his neck and cheeks. He opened his mouth to answer, but closed it quickly. Thank Bema, he thought to himself when Lailyn quickly brought the conversation to a change.

«A scream?» The experienced Æthelwigend looked intently first to Lailyn and then at Dicun, «Yes, it might've been that.»

He was out of the door now, followed by the young dryht, quickly catching the chestnut horse by the bridle. He looked carefully around, there were several other horses still roaming around, bowing down, he could not see anyone who seemed to try and hide among them, but it was hard to say. He, reprimanding the in a stern mumble, yet not without a tone of tenderness. «You rascal of a horse, where're you off to, huh?! You should know better than to follow strangers... who did this? Man? Woman? Child? One of them foreigners?»

He tied the horse again, wondering for a moment if he should have a harder and more difficult knot, yet that would prove a hinderance if he needed the horse quickly. «Thank you, Lailyn, and if you can catch some of the other horses roaming around, that would at least give some overview of the situation. Did any of you make out the direction of the scream?»

He looked around himself, several horses on the loose, but apart from that nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary. «Well, Dicun, you are right, we ought to make ourselves familiar of the area. My horse... he did not seem upset, and he does not take well to strangers, he is an old war horse, not to fond of children. Whoever untied him must have good abilities when it comes to handling horses...»

His hand still rested on the sword while his blue eyes scanned the area, he took advantage of beeing quite tall, even for a Rohirrim. «'Less my eyes decieve me, I believe I see to great war horses standing together some shops from here, can you see them? I think I know those rumps, though I might be decieved and a reasonable explanation may have them there»

He squinted his eyes to try and see what kept them there, but he could see nothing that made sense of it. "I say we head over there, unless you think the scream came from another direction?" He quickly glanced towards Lailyn and Dicun, inwardly regretting that he had not been paired with a pathfindian on such a day, so close to the many incidents, setting him up with a newly trained dryht. Yet, the lad could be a great talent in the pathfindian ways, who knew.

@Allacan ob Burzum @Gwai @Lail @Aethelu

[The Good Hunter]

Sekith, the Megafreya Jumping Spider
Golde ge Eorcanstan

After spraying her silk and causing a commotion, Sekith knew better than to stick around. She skittered along the edge of the shelf, moving as fast as eight legs would carry her. Ever few inches she would test the air with her pedipalps. The large two legs were all distracted with one thing or another, they seemed to have forgotten her. But that cat, the great behemoth, that did not seem so distracted by her feint. Sekith paused halfway down the shelf. She needed a way to get back up to the thatch above them all without being seen. Going directly back up where she had previously landed was a bad idea, the little spider determined. They would be watching that. She could cross the vast gulf to the other side of the structure, but that was risky. What if one of the two legs walked into her silk as she was spinning? What if the cat followed her? No, she needed to be stealthier. Her master had taught her how to move unseen, it was she employed his tricks. She sprang away, using all the elastic strength within her eight tiny limps to fly as far as she could through the air and land on the ground. It was risky as well, but Sekith had been left with no good options. She needed to report what she’d seen and heard to her master. She would be rewarded for this day, for the information she had gathered and for the her daring escape. She skittered along the hard-wooden floor as fast as she could, occasionally ducking into the crevices between slates of wood, crawling along its length and emerging from a different spot along the floor. She leapt from time to time too, using the jumping powers of her legs to propel her faster though the open air. She was nearly free! The constant zigzagging was taking longer but it seemed to have fooled the cat, who was now far away. She was just a single jump to freedom! She jumped, feeling the wind of her speed rush past her. She landed delicately on the wall opposite the shelf she had begun her journey at, at the opposite end of the congregation of two legs. She scurried up the wall, leapt once more, then shot out a thick stream of silk from her spinnerets to crawl safely away into the thatch.

[Shivased]

The Copper Kettle

It seemed Eomund was still nervous around her, Shivased thought, and had to work hard to hide the grin. He'd get over it eventually, but it still amused her. She set out new bowls and moved around the shop, putting the kettle back on and pulling down a couple different types of tea to make more samples. She'd missed one bowl, and took it from Eomund with a nod of thanks, adding it to the pile on the back shelf to be washed out.

She purposely ignored his comment about him and Grimthain being from the same town and his hesitation before saying it. She knew they were uncle and nephew, having been told by the King when the reason for him presenting the lad with his insignia had been explained to her. She'd also been dealing with paperwork and reports from the Westmark for long enough to know a bit about Grimthain that it hadn't taken the king telling her for her to figure it out.

I don't actually serve tea and food here, she said apologetically when told their reason for being there. I'd be happy to make you two a cup of tea once the water is boiled, but I only sell tea leaves and some paraphernalia for making tea. They weren't the first customers who had heard "tea shop" and come in thinking she was some sort of public house. She had considered selling treats from her brother's shop and perhaps offering hot tea, but she wasn't a pubmistress and had never wanted to be one. Selling food was not her forte. If you'd like, you can buy some tea leaves but please don't feel like you are obligated to. And like I said, I'm happy to make you two some tea as well if you'd like a cup.

Asked why the horse was in her shop she shrugged. I don't know, but I hope he doesn't come back. He probably smelled the tea and thought there was food in here. She grinned. I'm going to take it as a compliment that a great Cavalry horse like Arod decided to visit me, even if it was probably the prospect of food that lured him in.

She glanced out the window again and frowned. Is it just me or are there far too many horses out there? She asked, her voice taking on a note of suspicion. And far too few riders?
@Dimcairien Luiniel @Allacan ob Burzum

[Aodh Hammerhelm]

Golde ge Eorcanstan: NPC ~ Malachite Copperstick

The mention of Sheemie and Cal' by the woman (Gwai) at his side brought Mal’s thoughts into focus. His head still ached, and he felt a little out of sorts, but he realised now it was no Dwarf-maid that attended him, and that he was not on the floor of his smithy under the Lonely Mountain.

“First things first!” The Dwarf said, sitting up suddenly. His face winced, but he soon found his voice again. “Is there anything in the shop to take the edge of, Amethyst? If not could you maybe find something at one of the stores?” Mal was sure his sister wouldn’t take kindly to his demand, but he wanted to buy a smidgen of time to work out whether he’d blurted out anything foolish after his accident.

The Dwarf turned his attention back to the Rohir woman: “I’m Malachite,” he smiled sheepishly. “Malachite Copperstick… I see you already know my sister, so no further introductions are necessary.

Sheemie? He’s off helping that Beda lass find her missing siblings, I don’t expect we’ll see him before closing. And Cal’ – I take it you mean Calimir, the lad from Gondor? He went off to Minas Tirith on an errand around midday, all that way to fetch lemons, if you can believe it. They must be for someone awfully important!

We’ve been left in charge of things here until the laddies return. Is there anything we can assist you with? Do you have something that needs making or are you just browsing?”

--
@Elarith @Gwai @Calimir

[Elarith]

Amethyst Copperpick at Golde ge Eorcanstan

"Mal! How many times do we have to go over this?" Amethyst hissed under her breath, wincing. "The human women aren't supposed to have beards." She glanced sideways at Gwai to see if she was offended by her brother's lack of tact, but thankfully the woman looked unbothered by his words as she stood up.

Both Mal and Gwai were after a drink stronger than tea. Amethyst rolled her eyes as her brother asked her to search the shop for something. "And I thought there weren't slaves in this country," she snorted, and stomped off to the kitchen. She clattered around to show her displeasure as she rooted in the cupboards, but all she turned up was a dusty bottle of a liquid that was either for some serious cleaning or serious drinking. It smelt lethal. The little skull and crossbones on the faded label wasn't promising either. The dwarf pushed it back into a corner lest Mal stumbled across it. She sighed, and went back into the shop proper, wondering what nonsense Mal had been telling Gwai in the meantime.

"Nothing besides the tea, unless Sheemie has a hidden stash. Shall I venture forth to find some?" she asked Mal and Gwai. Also... where had Krystalle got to?

Krystalle, meanwhile, was having a great time slinking around the workshop in search of the snack-sized spider. She'd padded along the shelf, then leaped gently down, to the floor. Where had the tasty creature gone? The kitten set off in pursuit, patting at the gaps in the floorboards and skirting boards to see if she could flush it out.

@Aodh Hammerhelm @Gwai @Vampire Bob

((Sorry guys, meant to post yesterday but never managed))

[Lail]

Lailyn, streets outside Cavalry Liaison Office
"I'm not sure where the scream came from and I'll be there first to admit I've been a bit on edge lately…" Funny how stumbling upon a stabbed woman could do that. "Maybe it was nothing," she admitted with a hint of doubt. The market was busy and aside from the horses and whatever it was they thought they heard, everything and everyone seemed fine. No one was running away in a panic and there were no screams of terror. Were a few loose horses really much cause for concern?

What would she have done back in her Paethfindian days? Look for evidence with a clear head, make no assumptions and go from there. She stepped toward the hitching post where Arlette and Eld were now re-secured, took the lead ropes in her hands and studied them.

"These were not cut by anyone which means someone came along and untied these horses without our noticing...or the horses freed themselves." She gave Tord and Dicun an apologetic look. "Um, not that I think either of you were remiss with your knots of course…" Aware she had inadvertently embarrassed the Æthelwigend once already, she had no wish to do so again.

With a careful glance, she scanned the street for anything else unusual…wait, were there two horses standing in the doorway of Treowwyrhta? She blinked and hid a smile at the thought that horses were not the only interesting sight to be found in that particular shop's doorway.

With a slight shake of her head to reframe her focus, she returned her attention to Tord and Dicun. "Yes. I see two horses,” she affirmed to Tord. “Maybe you're right, it could be nothing. Maybe someone just wanted to cause mischief. But in case it is some distraction, its probably best if we aren’t all in the same place…I’ll see what I can find out while you go investigate. If you take a key, we can meet back here.” She locked the office door behind her and held out a key to them, ready to find out if anyone had seen anything more serious than the horses themselves.

@Amadhrill @Aethelu

[Allacan ob Burzum]

Grimthain, human, he/him
Visiting the Copper Kettle with Éomund and Shivased
(@Dimcairien Luiniel @Shivased)

Grimthain re-entered the shop just as Shivased was commenting on the name of the horse that had been in her shop and clapped Éomund on the shoulder companionably, giving him a smile of approval by way of silent congratulations for not giving this Marshal a black eye or similar. "Arod? Is that the horse's name? Odd, it sounds familiar for some reason, but I'm sure it isn't the mount of any of the rider's I now. A cavalry horse did you say, First Marshal?" he said as he admired the shelves of tea. He had always known there was a wide range of hot drinks available, especially after the healand Amadhrill had introduced him to chamomile tea very recently, but now that he was faced with the wide array of shelves he had no idea where to start. Momentarily distracted by the choice, he missed Shivased's last comment. "Well this is quite a magnificent stock, I don't even know where to begin. Do you have suggestions for something revitalising for early mornings, First Marshal? I think both Éomund and I could do with something to freshen us up, we have a grand day of shopping ahead of us." He said with another grin at Éomund, seemingly oblivious to Shivased's suspicious looks outside, or the horses passing by the window behind him.

---

Arod
Escaping from Treowwyrhta and heading swiftly over to Siltan Bur
(@Gwai @Winddancer @Elarith)

He watched the little girl eagerly as she puzzled through her dilemma, trying not to let his mouth water with anticipation at the sight of the shiny red apple. As soon as Æric appeared with a bowl filled with the delicious fruits the horse could barely maintain even its military restraint and stomped its hoof, straining forwards eagerly and perhaps shifting a pace back towards the doorway and ahead of Brightfyr, although he was trying ever so hard to be a good boy and not be too pushy or demanding; he had learned through years of cavalry service that you often got more apples if you tilted your head just... so, and dropped one ear just... so, and looked imploringly at the apple-giver just... so...

His efforts were immediately rewarded with the orchard delight and he munched happily on the fruit, dropping it half chewed on the floor but hastily snuffling it up even as Edda was feeding one of the juicy treats to Brightfyr. He stepped a little closer again, his stomach motivating the movements, so that the little girl was almost crowded by the immense cavalry war-horses, but he was surprisingly delicate when he reached his nose down to once again snort at her hair and mouth his soft lips against her ear in request for another apple, seemingly encouraged by her carefree laughter.

Right then Brightfyr nickered, and he turned to look at his equine companion curiously. It didn't take long for Arod to guess at what the other horse was suggesting; there were officious looking cavalry people in the streets and a couple of horses had already been rounded up. With a reluctant glance back at the bowl of apples, and a companionable nudge at the little girl, he turned away from the shop and begin trotting at a quick pace down the street away from the cavalry patrollers Tord and Dicun, looking for somewhere to perhaps hide out of sight and avoid getting caught for just a little longer. He kept his eyes forward, but his ears were turned back listening for pursuit. Then he spotted another building that looked like it was open, although the was only slightly ajar from the last customer.

Without hesitating, he stuffed his nose into the crack and pulled the door open, eagerly pushed himself within, perhaps contemplating whether he needed to take a hostage to negotiate his liberty with. As soon as he was inside the shop, he planted his feet - this time determined not to be forced back outside - and neighed loudly in challenge at where a lady was poring over some paperwork.

[Dimcairien Luiniel]

Copper Kettle with @Shivased and @Allacan ob Burzum (Grimthain)

"Oh," Éomund murmured when the First Marshal explained that she only sold the items for making tea and did not in fact sell the drink itself. He could feel the tinge of embrasement grow across his cheeks once again at his mistake. "S-sorry." She proceeded to offer to make him and Grimthain some tea once the water boiled, but Éomund genuinely didn't know how to respond. It clearly wasn't her job to make tea though she had offered, but he didn't want to inconvenience her at all. Thankfully before he could respond, either positively or negatively, Grimthain reappeared and clapped a hand on his shoulder, giving him a quick smile at the same time.

Éomund did his best to not relax into the comforting touch of his uncle as he was still uncomfortable with the thought of the entire Cavalry knowing their relationship. Grimthian proceeded to launch into a discussion about type of tea would be good in the morning and he seemed to accept the offer of a cup of tea. Éomund was extremely relieved to not have to make that decision, but he still was very curious about what was going on in the streets and wondered if Grimthain was even aware of the comotion. He was still new enough to Edoras and the Cavalry that he didn't feel it was his place to offer his opinion about such things, but he managed to say a quick, "yes," in agreement to the Marshal's question. "No one should let horses wander like that."

[Gwai]

Golde ge Eorcanstan

Gwai couldn’t help but wince as Mal sat up quickly, thinking of how much that must worsen his throbbing head, but nodded appreciatively as Amethyst mentioned human women were not supposed to have beards. The Dwarf delegated finding liquor to his sister, although Gwai was unsure if there was any in the shop. It seemed as if there was not, as all Amethyst seemed to turn up was a bottle with a skull and crossbones.

“I’m not that thirsty,” Gwai quickly disclaimed as Amethyst told them she had found nothing strong to drink. “A cup of tea sounds lovely, and most likely drinking spirits after being knocked unconscious would be unwise,” she ventured, albeit a bit regretfully.

Sheemie and Cal were off on adventures, Cal apparently going all the way to Minas Tirith just for the lemons. Gwai winced again, this time from guilt. “I’m afraid I asked him for lemons,” she said guiltily. “I didn’t realize he was making a special trip just for them! It’s intended for making a special alcohol,” she added as an explanation.

Mal explained he and Amethyst had been left in charge until Cal and Sheemie returned. “Perhaps you can assist me, then!” she said cheerfully. “The young gentlemen were making a silver figure ‘F’ for one of my customers, and thought it would be ready today.” She paused, before adding, “I own the local tack shop, it’s to decorate a bridle one of my customers commissioned,” she said as an afterthought to explain why she needed the figure.

---

Treowwyrhta, following Arod to Siltan Bur

Arod was clearly thinking along the same lines, as he turned to leave the shop before they suffered the same fate as some of the other horses. Brightfyr quickly finished his apple and bobbed his head up and down at the little girl in a “thank you”. Hopefully she would come along with them, but he had no time to waste, as he turned quickly to follow Arod down the street.

His fellow cavalry horse clearly remembered all the old tricks of the trade, and opened the door as if he had fingers instead of hooves. Brightfyr was right behind him, and followed him inside the next shop. The smell inside worried him there were no apples here, but freedom was a small price to pay. That, and the look which most assuredly would be on Gwai’s fate when she found out about his escapades. He enjoyed thinking about it as he maneuvered to carefully use his rear hoof to close the door behind him.

@Aodh Hammerhelm @Elarith
@Allacan ob Burzum

[Elarith]

Amethyst Copperpick at Golde ge Eorcanstan

"Well, tea I can make," Amethyst offered, pleased to not have to venture out. "Though I am intrigued by this special alcohol. Some sort of cocktail?" she asked Gwai.

She was about to go back to the kitchen, but with less stomping this time, when she heard the woman talking about the silver piece Cal had been working on. "Oh, the silver F, yes, Mal and Cal' finished it. It's in a little box... somewhere..." Amethyst was unsure where the lad had put the F. Hopefully Mal would be able to remember whilst she put the kettle on yet again.

@Aodh Hammerhelm

Elarith at Slitan Bur (horse invasion hotspot)

Elarith had been happily looking down the list of figures, uttering some audible tuts as she spotted errors and merrily amended them with her pencil. She was quite engrossed and didn't look up initially when the door opened, as she crossed out a line of numbers. It was only when she heard the unfamiliar sound of hooves striking the stone floor that she looked up to see who'd come in.

Or what had come in. Instinctively, Elarith stood up as the door closed behind the second horse. "Err... All right, lads?" she asked, as if they were rowdy teenagers. She came round the counter to stand in front of them. The only way she could get to the door to get them out would be to somehow squeeze between them. How on Arda had they gotten in? And how could she entice them out?

@Allacan ob Burzum @Gwai

[Aodh Hammerhelm]

Golde ge Eorcanstan: NPC ~ Malachite Copperstick

“A-ha!” Mal beamed at the Rohir (Gwai). “So you’re the Third Marshal are you? Calimir and Sheemie have told me all about you, and your commission. They’ve made you something quite exceptional – a one-off, kennit!

Amethyst and I were on hand to offer a bit of Dwarven expertise. You’ll have all of Rohan lining up at your saddlers to admire it, and to order something similar, I’m sure. Hold on, I’ll fetch it for you."

As Amethyst hurried off to make a brew, the Dwarf clambered onto his work box, and scratched about for the presentation case he and Cal' had prepared. It took some doing with a pounding head, and thoughts of what lemon-flavoured grog tasted like (and how it was brewed). He uttered a sudden bellow of triumph and trotted back to Gwai.

Mal stood before the tall Rohir, flipped open the case and held his hand out. “Top grade silver, ma'am, and exquisite crafting… I hope you like it,” the Dwarf said.

----

[Winddancer]

Edda and Æric with the horses

His heart clenched tightly with the abundance of love he had for this small human being, feeling like it would burst from being unable to contain it all. His eyes grew damp and he was forced to blink rapidly to avoid the tears, swallowing the lump in his tight throat. She was a natural with the two huge horses, easily dispelling his fears of her getting trampled under their hooves, though it seemed the horses took great care with her regardless.

Edda's chuckles and happy chatting filled the room as she handed out the apples and received snuffles in thanks, talking to them as if they understood every word she was saying and oddly enough it even looked like they did. However just as suddenly as they had appeared, they seemed to be alerted by something and quickly made their way off, heading towards another store.

He had to put a hand on Edda's shoulder to keep her from going, picking her up as she begged him to run off with them. He could see that there were people from the Cavalry rounding up other horses and surmised they must have been let loose by someone looking for some mischief. At least he hoped it was mischief and not something more sinister given the recent stabbing.

"Sorry dohtor min, not this time.." Seeing her crestfallen face his heart almost broke. He hated saying no to her, even if it was for her own good. "Hey.. if you give me one of those smiles of yours I will ask around and see if there is anywhere you can learn to rid-"

His word was drowned out by the excruciatingly high pitched excited squeal and he almost dropped her as she bounced happily in his arms. "Oh Thank you Papa!!" Giving him one of her widest smiles possible, she leaned up and kissed him several times on his cheek and made him chuckle.

[Gwai]

Gwai, at Golde ge Eorcanstan

It was difficult to decide how to describe bilewitdox. “A special cocktail is, I suppose, an apt description for the brew, but I don’t recommend it,” Gwai replied to Amethyst cautiously. “It’s known as bilewitdox, and is without a doubt the most vile concoction I have ever had the misfortune of sampling!” she said growing heat thinking about it. “It’s used for cavalry initiation ceremonies,” she said by way of explanation, “And many a brave young wigend, including myself back in the day, was nearly incapacitated by it! Our current supply was watered down somehow, and we have quite a few promotions to celebrate, so Lailyn offered to brew some more, and Cal was kind enough to procure the lemons.” Gwai paused a moment, before adding, “I would highly recommend sticking with tea!”

Gwai breathed a sigh of relief when Amethyst said the ‘F’ was completed. She turned to Mal. “Yes, I’m the Third Marshal! As well as the proprietress of the tack shop,” she said cheerfully. “I hope the sight of this will generate business! And business for this shop, as well!”

“My customer will be most grateful to know this came from Dwarven craftsmanship,” she said gratefully. “It was most fortuitous you were here!” she told Mal as he looked about for the box.

When Mal returned with the box, Gwai couldn’t help but stare at the silver figure. “That turned out so much more beautifully than I had thought!” she said appreciatively, reaching out to take the figure. “You, and Sheemie and Cal, of course, did incredible work!” she said, still staring at the lovely piece of silver, before closing the lid. “If Lady Bereth does not return to pick up the bridle, I may keep it for myself! My surname starts with an ‘F’ also,” she said with a laugh.

Gwai dug in her handbag and pulled out a small pouch full of coins. “This is the other half of the money for Sheemie and Cal,” she said. “May I leave it here with you?”

---

Brightfyr, with Arod, at Siltan Bur


The owner of the Siltan Bur seemed less pleased to see two large cavalry horses crowding inside her shop than the youngster at the last shop. Perhaps they should have stayed and enjoyed more apples, but Brightfyr was not yet ready to go back to the stables.

He whinnied at the woman, wondering if she had any apple or carrot sticks about. It seemed doubtful, from the smell of the shop, but at least he didn’t see Gwai about, who would no doubt read him a long lecture about the dangers of leaving the stables without permission, and probably a lecture about greediness and gluttony as well.

@Aodh Hammerhelm @Elarith @Allacan ob Burzum

[Allacan ob Burzum]

Grimthain, human, he/him
Visiting the Copper Kettle with Éomund (@Dimcairien Luiniel and @Shivased)

"Horses. Yes."Grimthain replied to Éomund with a distracted air that suggested he was not really listening even as he lifted some of the sample bowls to sniff at the strong scents. "Mmmm, I have to say Shivased, I had no idea you made as wonderful a tea connoisseur as you did a First Marshal" he complimented her with a smile, finally looking up from admiring her wares and catching the look on their faces.

He immediately sobered. "Is something wrong, Sir?" he queried Shivased, still clearly oblivous to whatever had both she and Éomund frowning with disapproval and suddenly wondering with dread if he had managed some sort of social blunder while being distracted by the array of merchandise. He hastily put the sample bowl back on the shelf. "Sorry, er, was I not supposed to touch them? I thought they were for samples, but maybe..." he said nervously, vaguely conscious of Éomund's exasperated reaction to his ignorance. At last he finally followed Shivased's gaze and looked back out of the windows, promptly stiffening to attention with surprise at the sight of multiple horses scattered on the street. "Dear Bema! Where did they all come from?!" He asked in an uncharacteristically foolish manner, before adding with a little more composure and self-awareness. "Well let's not just stand here gawking, nefa. Let's get ourselves out there quickly and round them up before someone gets hurt!"

---

Arod
With Brightfyr in their newly claimed territory Siltan Bur (@Elarith and @Gwai-Gon Jinn)

He nickered appreciatively at Brightfyr as the other horse joined him in the building and then had the clever foresight to close the door. As soon as the other horse had stepped forward a little, Arod reversed backwards up to the door and pressed his buttocks against it, confidently assuring himself that no-one would be able to get in via that door any time soon and displaying quite a sight to anyone who passed by the shop and would be met with the sight of the open sign being squashed against the glass by two white-ruffled butt-cheeks and a coarse horse-tail.

Then he turned to consider the two-legged occupant again. She was talking to them calmly in much the manner the cavalry patrols often used to address drunkards and louts. Arod somewhat bristled to be treated as such, and snorted in annoyance, spraying moisture into the air to gently coat whatever remained directly ahead of him as a sign of his dislike of her tone. He then stomped his hoof once again heavily on the floor as though in an attempt to clarify who exactly was in control of this situation, and drew back his ears aggressively as though readying to bite at her if she got too close.

[Elarith]

Amethyst Copperpick at Golde ge Eorcanstan

Returning with a pot of tea and fresh mugs, Amethyst heard Gwai describing the interesting drink that the lemons were destined for. She pulled a face of distaste. "And you drink this... bill-with-ducks... for fun? What a strange organisation the Cavalry is," she said, pouring the tea out. Maybe that was what the serious-looking liquid in the bottle in the back was?

Mal had found the silver 'F' and shown it to to Gwai. The dwarven woman's ears pricked up again when business was mentioned. "Oh, speaking of business, do take some more cards! There's a pile on the table there," she said, perching on a chair with a cup in her hand. She took a sip. She was going to turn into a cup of tea the rate she was drinking them.

"Of course we can keep the payment safe for Cal and Sheemie," answered Amethyst. "Mal can put it in the stock cabinet until they get back." Again, she wondered where Sheemie had got to. She hoped the tall lad wasn't in trouble.

@Aodh Hammerhelm

Elarith at Slitan Bur

The second horse whinnied at her, whilst the first shoved his backside against the door. "Aww, come on now, that was just painted last week," Elarith muttered, shaking her head in despair. If she didn't know better she'd say it was a deliberate move to block the door. The same horse then snorted horse snot all over her beautiful new apron, and that was the last straw.

"Right! That's it!" Elarith snapped, thoroughly offended by these equine intruders. The horse with his bum against the door had drawn back his ears and bared his teeth but she didn't care. The red mist had descended, and she stood with her hands on her hips facing the horses down. "I don't know who you belong to or why you've ended up in my shop, but you need to get out. You're barred!"

@Allacan ob Burzum @Gwai-Gon Jinn

[Aodh Hammerhelm]

Golde ge Eorcanstan: NPC ~ Malachite Copperstick

“Thank you, I’ll see it’s set aside safely until the lads return,” Mal said, taking the bag of coins from Gwai. The Dwarf did not shake out and count the woman’s remuneration, Dwarvish custom and good manners proscribed such rudeness. A greedy slug like Corpulent would have… And, more than likely, tried to lever further cash from the client for “extra” work done.

Mal bustled over to the stock cabinet and stowed the coins in an iron trinket box. His sample case and the wooden carry case, holding Dooley’s consignment, were set atop the cabinet. He clambered onto his work box and sprung the latches on the cases. A broad grin creased his face as he surveyed the top tray of Dooley’s items - what would Cal’ and Sheemie have made of these? Sets of silver letter pendants, ranging from A to Z in Westron characters and Rohirric runes, glittered in the light from the kiln.

The letters were not hand cast, they’d been mass produced by his kin in the Iron Hills, machine cut from sheets of silver, but they were pretty enough things. The desire for such goods had gone through the roof since the fall of Sauron and the opening up of trade routes across Middle-earth. Mal wouldn’t be surprised to find folk across Arda, Elves even, sporting the skin-inkings the Ironfoots favoured in the years ahead.

The Dwarf grinned at this last thought as he selected a G and F in both letter styles. He took up his die-stamps and marked the rear of each trinket with the sigil of the Lonely Mountain and a running horse, then made his way over to Gwai and Amethyst.

“Aye, aye!” he smiled at the Rohir and his sister. “Do take some of Ama’s business cards… I think the pair of us may be here for a while longer than we thought.” Mal held out Gwai’s empty purse and the four pendants. “And please accept these as a token of appreciation for your custom, and as a sign of mutual business yet to come.”

--
@Calimir @Elarith @Gwai-Gon Jinn

[Aethelu]

Dicun, with Tord and Lailyn
In the Riddermarket

Dicun looked around the marketplace and tried to take stock of what was going on. Horses everywhere, a possible scream in a place that had recently heard it's fair share of screams, and who knows what else. He took a deep breath as he made sure Arlette was tied up tightly this time. It was just as Lailyn said, there didn't seem to be a cut in the ropes, and he was sure the know had been tight. He patted Arlette's neck and smiled. "You didn't untie yourself now did you?" he asked, as Arlette bumped her head against his. "Did someone come and let you loose?" Unsurprisingly she had no answer for him, she just sniffed around him looking for any treats.

As Tord pointed out that he could see some horse gathered by the shops, Dicun looked across in that direction. There were indeed what seemed to be at least two horses that seemed to be perusing the wares at one of the shops. "How odd," said Dicun. "I do think that was where scream came from though, it might be best to go there first." Lailyn offered to take a look around as well, and she held out key towards them. Dicun took it, putting it in the same pocket as her note. That way, he had to remember the note when he would come back with the key.

"Let's head to that shop first," said Dicun, gesturing toward the horses in the distance. As they began to head over, the two horses seemed to decide they had better things to do and wandered off towards another shop. That was frustrating as he was sure that the scream had come from the first shop. "What are these two up to?" he turned to Tord. "I am still sure that the scream came from that first shop. Perhaps one of us should go there to check what happened in the first shop and the other go to see what those horses are doing?" From the looks of it, those were two big, strong horses and he could feel a slight worry about trying to manage the both of them. Tord was taller, and certainly stronger than he was. "I don't mind speaking to those in the first shop, it looks to be the carpenters shop, just to make sure that scream is nothing we need to worry about." While he was worried what he mind find in the first shop, it was still somehow less worrying than taking on those two big horses.

Suddenly another loud squeal pierced the air. Dicun didn't hesitate and took off towards the sound, his heart pounding at what he might find. He burst through the door to the shop (Treowwyrhta). "I heard a scream, is everything okay?"

(@Amadhrill @Elaena Targaryen @Winddancer
OOC: Sorry for the delay, had a rough week last week.)

[Shivased]

The Copper Kettle

It appeared that Grimthain hadn't heard her say she only sold tea leaves and tea-making supplies, not actual tea and treats. She grinned when he said he could do with a pick-me-up, somewhat rescuing Eomund who looked like he wanted the floor to swallow him up. If you'd been listening, she commented, You'd know I don't sell pre-made tea. Just the leaves. Her voice was teasing to go along with her grin, so it was obvious she wasn't serious, just having some fun with the Aethelwigend. I will however make you two a cup of tea if you'd like, the kettle should be almost ready.

I'm making myself a cup of what I call cream earl grey. It's a lovely blend of earl grey with vanilla and blue blossoms. Or, I have a lovely one named Shire Afternoon. It's a black tea with floral notes and a hint of lavender. It is good for a bit of energy if you have a busy day ahead of you. Or a nice White Peony. It's a white tea from Gondor with dried peony flowers in it. It's very floral but still nice. As she spoke she went and pulled the kettle off the fire and filled two pots with water, then replaced the kettle. Adding a blend of leaves to one, she then grabbed three cups. I spent a good deal of time in Gondor, where my mother was from, and my grandmother loves tea. She taught me to love it. she explained to Grimthain as she moved about, smiling again when she noted he was checking the different samples the horse hadn't slurped from.

She could see the horses outside, and nodded to Eomund. No, they should not be allowed to wander. I have a feeling Arod, or whoever was in charge of him, is behind this. He's a great horse, but a troublemaker. She wasn't overly concerned. There was a Cavalry patrol who could take care of it, and if horses in the Riddermarket was the worst she had to deal with today, it would be a good day. If you two would like to help round up the horses, the offer of tea stands if you'd like to come back. She carefully did not make it an order; she didn't want the loyal Aethelwigend or the eager Dryhtguma to feel they had to get involved, especially when they were off duty and enjoying a day together.

[Winddancer]

Barely able to hold on to his exited daughter, he managed to kick the door shut with one foot. With his free hand he found that secret little spot, that was not so secret anymore, right under her chin and wiggled his finger in there and set her off giggling. "I want to ride a white one Papa! The Queen rides a white one, doesn't she??" She looked at him seriously, his finger paused just in front of her face. "A white one? I would thi-"

His words were cut off by the sound of the door crashing open and Æric swirled around towards the door, his arms hugging his daughter even tighter. Standing in a protective stance, his eyes sought out who had burst into their store, very much aware that he was not carrying anything that he could defend himself with, his first thoughts going to an assailant rather than the horses returning.

"I heard a scream, is everything okay?"

"What? What screa- Oh.." Giving off an apologetic cough and righting himself, he set his daughter down on one of the high stools by the high table. "Uh.. yes, everything is just fine, my daughter got a little exit-"

"My Papa is going to let me ride a horse! A white one! Just like the Queen's!" Edda literally bounced up and down on the stool forcing Æric to lay a hand on her shoulder to make sure she did not bounce off.

"I do apologise, we are fine though. Although there seems to be some horses on the loose."

"I gave them apples!" Edda said proudly, giving the man her biggest smile, Æric wincing and smiling apologetically as this could well be the owner.

@Aethelu

[Lail]

Lailyn, streets to Slitan Bur
Lailyn did not wait to see where Dicun and Tord went after passing them the key. She might have wondered where to start if the two horses hadn't trotted by and entered the butcher's shop of all places. The white coat of one of the horses told her this was no ordinary horse. Not that there were any ordinary horses in Rohan but some were distinctly less ordinary than others. The day was taking a rather unusual turn. Again. Maybe there was no such thing as a quiet day in the market.

Rounding up the horses seemed a sensible place to start so she set off on their trail. By the time she caught up, she was met with the sight of a white horse-rump smushed against the door’s glass pane. Well then. With a grimace somewhere between exasperation and amusement, Lailyn tried to push the door open but it barely budged. Oh, these horses were clever...and stubborn.

“Hello?” she called out to Elarith through the tiny gap she'd managed to create. “Is anyone there and can I help? You don't happen to have a back door, do you?"

Though if there was a window big enough, that might work just as well. She craned her neck to try to check while keeping her hold on the door so she could hear the butcher's reply through the small crack.

@Elarith @Gwai-Gon Jinn @Allacan ob Burzum
(OOC @Aethelu - no apology needed and good to see you! )
---
Nymlac, streets to Awesnis gærwe nædleprica
A late start, as usual, brought Nymlac to the market well into the morning but not so late he missed some of the commotion caused by the horses. It seemed a number of people had not secured their steeds properly. He laughed and shook his head as he spotted a pony (NPC/NPP?*) helping themself to a drink in the bubbling fountain, looking quite pleased with their newfound freedom. Ah, Edoras, there was always something interesting going on!

He was half tempted to capitalize on the mayhem somehow but before he could come up with anything, he reached the seamstress' shop. With his cane in one hand, he reached for the door with the other and was greeted with an unfamiliar but pleasing face.

“Good day, dear lady,” he greeted Eldreda with a grin and a twinkle in his eyes. “Has this shop changed hands since I was last here?” he asked, thinking to himself that the new seamstress was quite the improvement on the former one. Of course, if he’d met Taethowen in between the two, he’d have thought much the same of her. As luck would have it (good or bad take your pick), it was Eldreda who would have to suffer/enjoy(?) the attention of this customer today.

“I’m hoping you can help me...I need a few new shirts, you see. Something simple, but refined.” He puffed out his chest a bit as if to say ‘just like me.' “One of my finest was ruined beyond repair the night of the festival in those ghastly fires and I need a few others replaced as well.” No need to mention exactly how they had been ruined, of course. If asked, he would have only the most respectable reasons for the damage. Naturally. He smiled his most charming smile.

@Sally
(*Non-Player Pony? Anyone feel free to take the reins (haha...) of this pony if you want to. )

[Elarith]

Amethyst Copperpick at Golde ge Eorcanstan

Amethyst sipped her tea as Mal rifled through his case and produced two sets of letters for Gwai as gifts. Aha, she thought. Free items as an inducement to further trade. Mal was definitely picking up a trick or two. She winked at him over the rim of her cup.

“Yes, we seem to keep getting involved in one thing or another,” Amethyst chipped in when her brother spoke of staying longer than anticipated. She touched the back of her head where the lump was absent-mindedly. A thought suddenly struck her. “Oh! I don’t suppose you have heard anything about these missing children that Mal is so concerned about, have you?” she asked Gwai.

@Gwai-Gon Jinn @Aodh Hammerhelm

Elarith at Slitan Bur

Elarith was rather out of ideas in this face off. The horses were unmoved. The door opened a fraction - typical! A customer, just when they couldn’t get in. A voice called through, muffled somewhat by the bulk of horse blocking the way.

“Hello! Hello! I’m in here!” she yelled back. “And I have no clue how to get these bloody horses out!” Elarith glared at Arod and Brightfyr.

“There’s a door round the back if you go through the alleyway,” she added. It was big enough for a person but there was no way these horses would fit through, even if she could get them round the counter and across the workroom without destroying all the furniture. She hoped whoever it was had some good suggestions ready...

@Elaena Targaryen @Allacan ob Burzum

[Dimcairien Luiniel]

Éomund
Leaving the Copper Kettle and heading towards Slitan Bur

It seemed that Grimthain was completely oblivious to the fact that brewed tea was not sold in this particular shop, but Marshal Shivased didn't seem to mind, even though Éomund still felt extremely awkward and was certain they were inconveniencing her. As the First Marshal began to prepare some different types of tea, she mentioned various qualities of different blends.

At last Grimthain had realised that something was amiss and it wasn't in regards to the tea. If his uncle hadn't noticed when he did, Éomund was about to grab him and forcibly move him outside to show what was going on. Thankfully that wouldn't need to happen. "I was just waiting for you to notice," he muttered as he headed outside, thankful to be able to get out of the teashop. This was supposed to be quiet day of food and shopping, not embarrassing mistakes and chasing horses. At least he was good with horses, so hopefully he could manage to help round them up. Perhaps some Cavalry members (or Edoras residents for that matter) needed to learn how to properly hobble a horse.

He stood in front of the hitching post and scanned the streets, waiting for Grimthain to follow him out of the shop, and wondering what the best course of action was. It didn't seem like there was anything malicious about the horses getting loose as they were all still there and hadn't been stolen. He saw several others already in the streets trying to round up the various horses, but then his eye caught a familiar horse (Arod) on the porch of a nearby shop along with another one (Brightfyr). Considering the way he had met the horse, Éomund wouldn't be surprised if this particular horse was the source of some of the mischief going around. After all, that was what the First Marshal had said and she probably knew her way around the different Cavalry horses. Not wanting to frighten either horses or the shop proprietor, Éomund carefully made his way towards the building. Perhaps there would be a way to corner the horses to prevent them from continuing to make their way through the shops. Judging from the shop owners exclamation, she was more than a little annoyed by the presence of two horses in her shop.

@Shivased @Allacan ob Burzum @Gwai-Gon Jinn @Elarith

[Taethowen]

Eldreda

Awesnis Gærwe Nædleprica

The morning had passed quietly, though Eldreda had looked out a bit ago when some sort of disturbance seemed to happen in the streets, and she'd laughed softly and rolled her eyes at the sight of the loose horses wandering around.

Eldreda was beginning to think of figuring out her lunch when the bell over the door jingled, and she looked up to see a man (Nymlac) enter. She quirked an eyebrow--a habit she shared with her cousin--at his usage of 'dear lady' but answered his question.

"Since I do not know when you last came in, I have no way of answering for certain," Eldreda said. "But it is my cousin, Taethowen, who runs the shop now, and has the last couple of months. I'm simply here to help out since she's the Second Marshal now."

Eldreda may have been a country girl, but her skills had brought her into contact with many types of people over the years, and as she noted this man's demeanor, she saw that he was vain--and vanity always meant a willingness to spend coin. She just needed to make sure he had the coin to spend first.

"We have a selection of fine fabrics that you can choose from," Eldreda said, pointing out each of the various types on their respective shelves. "Linen from as close as the Mark to as far as Eriador and Dale, cotton from the Shire and Dale, or if you'd like something a little heavier for the cooler seasons ahead, there's some lightweight wool from Gondor as well.

"The cheapest materials will run you 3 silver per yard, and the most expensive is 8 silver per yard, and that's not including the cost of labor for constructing the garments." Eldreda paused a moment to run a critical eye over Nymlac. "I think you'll need at least one and a half yards per shirt, and it'll be at least one additional silver per garment for the construction. And you'll need to put seventy-five percent of the final cost down as a deposit."

Taeth probably wouldn't have required that high of a deposit, but Eldreda didn't like the air this fellow was putting on, and she didn't want to get cheated of any money.

@Elaena Targaryen

[Allacan ob Burzum]

Grimthain, human, he/him
Visiting the Copper Kettle with Éomund (@Dimcairien Luiniel and @Shivased)

"If you'd been listening..." He blushed a little at the First Marshal's gentle admonishment, suddenly feeling a little like a fool for being away with the fairies, glad that she laughed to take some of the bite out of things. "I'm sorry, First Mar... Shivased"[/i] he said, trying for a moment to treat her as a person and not a commander. [/i]"Its the first time in a long time that Éomund and I have been able to spend some quality time together and I rather fear it has made me a uncharacteristically giddy." he confessed even as he placed a hand companionably on Éomund's shoulder. "Shire afternoon would be lovely, please, but first I think my companion and I will go see to it that these horses don't cause any more mischief. We'll be back shortly" he said with a respectful nod as he felt the hand still on Éomund's shoulder pulled a little towards the door as the younger man headed outside.

"Why didn't you say something?" Grimthain said in an embarrassed tone as he followed, rather unfairly given that Éomund had tried to and the older man had been ignoring him. Grimthain seemed to realise restrospectively that this was probably the case and paused to apologise to the youngster. "I'm sorry, I'm behaving like such a ninny today, forgive me." he said with heartfelt sincerity. "Let's get this lot rounded up so we can get back to our fun, and I promise; no more embarrassing encounters today. Deal?" he said with a companionable grin.

Éomund had his eyes on a shop where it seemed some horses had invaded, but Grimthain was more concerned with those that were loose on the open streets where there might be children running about. As the lad headed away, he calmly set about rounding up those mounts that were still wandering about outside, calming them with soothing words, catching their leads with a firm hand and confidently leading them back to the hitching post where he made a much more thorough job of hobbling them all. He was just tying off the last of those visibly loose in the Riddermarket when he realised that one particular horse was not accounted for. "Now what happened to that big grey?" He said, scratching his head as he looked around for the horse he had already captured and tied up once that day, at this very spot, annoyed that it had somehow managed to escape again when his back was turned.

---

Arod
With Brightfyr, deciding Siltan Bur is a bad place to be because it has no apples (@Elarith, @Lail and @Gwai-Gon Jinn)

If you'd been listening, He didn't like her tone of authority, or the way she put her hands on her hips; he much preferred softer elven tones and her aggressive nature didn't seem to sit well with him. He regretted leaving the shop with the fresh apples and the little girl, even if the child had made strange high-pitched noises, she had been soft and happy. Not at all like this bossy woman. He knew the door behind him was well and truly shut, and knew also that he lacked the skill to open it from the inside. So he snorted instead at Elarith but his next action was cut off by the sound of someone pushing against the door his rump was pressed up to, and shouting through the door. He wasn't sure what exactly what the newcomer said, but at least one of the words he thought he understood gave him an idea.

The woman ahead of him was shouting again, with an air of annoyance and frustration and an angry look at both horses that made him bare his teeth. Then he suddenly and unexpectedly barged forwards, the door spilling inwards in a manner that might surprise anyone whose weight was still upon it. The horse meanwhile was shoving his way further inside the shop with all the strength of a determined warhorse as he tried to push himself through and further into the shop, knocking cabinets and stands aside as he went. There had to be another way out of here somewhere, and he shoved his nose into each nook and cranny in an attempt to find it and get away from the shouty lady.

[Aethelu]

Dicun at Treowwyrhta

As Dicun burst through the door, he looked around the shop, trying to take it all in as quickly as possible. There was no body on the floor, no blood, nothing to explain a scream. All he could see was a man holding onto a little girl, both looking very confused at his sudden intrusion. His mind was whirring with all sorts of different thoughts, trying to pull out the correct answer to what was going on here.

"Uh.. yes, everything is just fine, my daughter got a little exit-"

As the little girl stood on the stool and her father looked at Dicun, the right answer finally clicked into place. Of course, it wasn't so much a scream, as a very excited squeal. He felt like a bit of a fool, charging in like that for a happy little girl. He was about to stammer out his deepest apologies when the little girl began to speak. She was bouncing up and down, so excited about meeting these so wayward horses. He couldn't help but smile, her enthusiasm was certainly infectious. The father was apologising again, leaving Dicun to raise a hand.

"No no, please, you have no need to apologise. I should be the one apologising to you, bursting into your shop like that." He ran a hand through his hair, it was certainly becoming his nervous tic. "I am Dicun, a dryhthuma with the cavalry. I am supposed to be patrolling in the marketplace, but I seem to have ended up trying to round up some mischievous horses. I am glad to see everything is okay though."

He turned his attention to the little girl, as she proudly announced she had fed them and was going to ride them too. "Well then, I must say thank you to you for taking such good care of these horses. If I need someone to take extra good care of my horse, I shall have to come and see you."

Turning back to the shop owner, he smiled. "I am sorry again for barging in like that. You don't have any idea where those horses came from do you?"

@Winddancer