The Pelennor Fields, Osgiliath, The Northern Fiefdoms (Free RP)

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Aderic
Castle Ansellidus
Late Dec

Ric remained quiet, trying to decide whether or not he should ask for a small favor, when he heard the noble couple decide to have their coach driver wait at the stable and tend to their horses and keep them ready. While he really wanted to know whether his own horse was still there, and if she had been well cared for, he also didn't know if lord or lady Himhathol would appreciate him asking their employee to check for him. And he was well aware that he held no status whatsoever, to have any kind of authority to make such a request. Besides, whether Lady was there or not, he couldn't do anything about it either way. Especially not right now. So, he decided to keep quiet and wait for a chance to check for himself, later. Hopefully such a chance would come.

Meanwhile, Sergeant Bays stepped up when spoken to. "Two were meant to be guarding him," He nodded to Ric. "Where are they, now?" He asked Ric.

"Oh... right. When I left them, they were occupying my chambers... in my place." Ric answered, a little uncomfortable to admit that he had locked them up in order to manage his own escape. But it would only be for a temporary time. Nothing like the months that he was locked away with no one to talk with. "If no one has come along since then to let them out, then that would likely be where they are, still." He added quietly.

Bays nodded. "Right. And the one whose uniform you.. uh, borrowed.. was patrolling the interior, but apparently he is now trapped in.. a broom closet?" He checked that with Ric, who nodded slightly in confirmation. "That's only three..." Mentally, Bays went back over each one, trying to account for everyone. With all the excitement that had been going on today, he briefly blanked on the last guy's location, but then it resurfaced in his memory. "Ah, yes. The last one will be posted at the entrance to the dungeon." He answered. "And the rest will be in the barracks," He added. "That'll be in the East wing." He glanced at the rough sketch of the castle's interior, which Ric had drawn. "That's not here, but it'd be.. this general area," He pointed to a blank area on the 'map', indicating a portion of the castle that Ric had not explored or gone through.

"So, it seems that the one guard at the dungeon entrance and the jailor are the only obstacles?" Ric asked, checking that he heard right. "Wow... Someone said the guards were understaffed, but I didn't realize it was that bad." He frowned as he took a look around, noticing how very empty the place seemed, and realized that Merilda had not been exaggerating when she said that people were vanishing. He debated whether to ask if there were any servants left, but decided it might be best to avoid any further distractions, to keep them from getting to Lord Veranis.

"Assuming none of the off-duty men awaken, yes." Bays answered, then turned to Macardil. "My lord, what should I do with him?" He asked, nodding to Hankins.

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn, @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
On the road to the Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

The corner of her lips twitched up ever so slightly when Macardil directed his comment to her about not liking surprises after asking about the strength of their potential opposition. “Aye.” Her reply was a murmur of agreement. In this context she thoroughly agreed that fewer surprises were better, and they had already had a goodly number of both pleasant and unpleasant surprises today.

Ziran listened with interest to the answers and recollections provided by the sergeant and Aderic. Two men sounded easily surmountable as opposition, especially if they didn’t band together, but she knew better than to assume lack of skill on the part of her opponents. They would need to keep the noise down, however, as it sounded like up to six or seven more guards were sleeping, and it would be better to catch them unawares rather than have them at their backs.

She lifted an eyebrow at Bays’ question to Macardil about what to do with Hankins. Most sergeants had developed some decision making skills by the time they achieved that rank, although perhaps this obsequiousness was what his former master had demanded. Her tone was dry as she interjected, knowing her husband wouldn’t be opposed and would add his own direction or suggestion if he wished, “Stash him somewhere where he won’t be bothersome or raise the alarm. I suggest binding and gagging him like the others and putting him in the stable where he won’t freeze and our coachman can stand guard.” It really was fortuitous that the man hadn’t raised a ruckus yet. “Time is of the essence, Sergeant.” If he was speedy they could begin their search within minutes.

It was tempting to snag the map from Aderic for a proper look at the details, but Macardil had had the opportunity to peruse it, and she trusted his sense of direction. Would he want to lead into dark halls? Was the draw of his friend sufficient to drive away memories? She gave him a searching look and then turned to Aderic to propose a strategy. “I suggest you lead the way for the first part if you are comfortable enough doing so, Aderic, but I or Macardil will be at your shoulder in case we encounter anyone. Once we get close, I can go ahead cautiously with my bow at the ready. Perhaps if we get the drop on them we won’t need to fight.” She took her bow in hand as she spoke, as it both gave her a faster reaction time and it would be easier to keep it from knocking into any walls or objects. “If you would rather not lead, we will proceed and you can correct any wrong turns quietly.”

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Aderic
Castle Ansellidus
Late Dec

Bays glanced at the lady, somewhat surprised when she answered instead of her husband, but since the lord didn't object to his wife's instructions, he gave a bit of a nod, ignoring Hankins when he began protesting at the thought of being gagged as Bays led him toward the stable as instructed. Since he was already in wrist restraints, it didn't take long at all to secure him, and then he rejoined the group.

While waiting on sergeant Bays to return, Ric turned to Lady Himhathol and listened while she spoke to him now. Until now, it had seemed to him as if she kept mostly quiet and let her husband handle things for the most part. Perhaps he had been wrong in assuming that she would not get involved. He did recall hearing that she happened to be a ranger, of course, so it made sense. He wasn't quite sure he was comfortable with leading the way, however. But he gave a nod and tried not to let his lack of confidence show too much. "Very well." He agreed quietly.

When the lady gave him an opening to back down as the leader of the group, Ric hesitated. He was very tempted to say that he would rather not. But either way, they would be relying on his memory to guide them through the halls, right? He dismissed the idea of asking someone else to take the lead.

Once they were ready to go, he started for the door, only to pause when Bays remembered the sword he had carried for Ric, when they were going across the bridge. "Oh, sir. You may want this," he mentioned, holding the sheathed sword out toward Ric.

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

The dungeons were in the East Wing. And one more guard would be present. Macardil filed that away even as Aderic asked to confirm that one guard and the jailor were the only remaining obstacles. It almost seemed too good to be true, but - yes - the jailor. With his eagerness to get to Halberion, Macardil had not spared another thought on the jailor. What was it that the Sergeant had said about him? That he might be willing to see things their way? Or was Macardil remembering that wrongly?

Ziranphel answered the Sergeant's question before he could, but his only response to that was a small smile and a nod of agreement. While the two of them had never been in a situation like this together, before where rank and authority was a grey area and something could be said for either Ziranphel or Macardil taking the lead, Macardil was finding they seemed to have some sort of natural agreement on how to handle the proceedings. He appreciated that. He also appreciated that she was not choosing to disappear into the background. He wanted her to take a more active part in this. He knew she would be able to supply calm and reason where, at some point, his decision-making process might be less ideal, given the situation with Halberion. Upon her lingering look, the Lord Himhathol returned it, calm for now, though distracted by thoughts of his friend, regardless. Would she notice that much, he wondered, just by looking at him?

"I will not be taking my bow," he determined, once Ziranphel had spoken her piece, and he had once again nodded his agreement. He felt like his longbow would be too bothersome within the halls and rooms of the castle proper. He took some time to properly fix his one handed axe to his belt, as well as to retrieve another, slightly smaller axe from the wagon, and attach that, as well.

Once Hankins had been secured in the stables, and they were all prepared to step inside, Macardil frowned as Bays offered to return the sword to Aderic. It was true that Aderic had been handling it, before, without Macardil really seeing it as an issue. However... now he knew Aderic was one of the Androllius twins.. how could he be sure that this Aderic was not involved in anything that he had learned? Reilly. Erynneth. Even if Halberion had extended some trust to this young man... given everything, was it not possible for even Halberion to be deceived? Was it a leap of faith that Macardil was willing to take?

As it turned out, it was not.

Macardil stepped forward and put a hand on Bays' arm, to stay the Sergeant's hand. "I believe not," the lord stated simply, while looking at Aderic. "You understand," he supposed, "While you seem genuine, and it appears to me that you are genuine.. I cannot afford to take any risks. If the only ones who may oppose us now are one guard and the jailor, luckily there is no need for you to carry weapons. My wife and I can handle any opposition, should the occasion arise. And we can always reevaluate." Macardil took the sword from Bays, instead. He would hold onto it, then. For now.

Aderic led them into the castle...

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Aderic
Castle Ansellidus
Late Dec

Ric was not expecting the sword to be offered to him. Before he had a chance to even reach out to take it, however, Lord Himhathol intercepted it. Ric looked at him, almost questioningly. But his explanation was enough. He didn't trust Ric. That shouldn't surprise him, but he had hoped that maybe by this point he might have convinced them he was not their enemy. But he merely gave a small nod. Yes, he understood. It was... nothing new, was it? He turned and started into the castle. It wasn't like he really needed a sword, anyway. And even when he had been carrying it earlier, he hadn't used it, because he hadn't wanted to hurt anyone unnecessarily. That's why he'd dropped it rather than fight the guards, earlier.

Inside the castle, it was quiet. Almost eerily quiet. He remembered that Thinnion was somewhere, but he had no idea where. And there would be kitchen people, too, because someone must cook for him and for the guards, right? But he didn't know where the kitchen would be, as he'd never actually had any sort of tour of the castle. He knew where some of the rooms were, like the parlor where guests would ordinarily be greeted, and the dining hall, and the gardens. But the rest of the castle was a bit of a mystery.

In fact, now that he was trying to lead the way, Ric found himself at a bit of a loss. His map was not as much help as he had hoped it would be, for it showed the route that he remembered taking from the guest room, where he had been held, to the dungeon. Which had been a bit of a meandering course anyway, and then he had ended up in a study or office, before Thinnion showed up and led him to the dungeon. But now he was trying to get there from the front door, and he found that he had no idea which way to turn.

Bays offered a bit of guidance, however, since he knew the castle well enough. But, the further they ventured down into the lower areas of the castle, the more some things began to look familiar to Ric. When they got nearer to the dungeon, the halls looked less familiar to Bays, and Ric was the one to take the lead then.

"I think the entry is just around this corner," Ric said softly at last, pausing in his steps just before taking a turn around a corner. He looked at the lord and lady. "I don't know where the jailor will be, but the guard should be just outside the door."

"Perhaps I could speak to him," Bays suggested in a whisper. "He knows me. I could send him to another post, perhaps?" He looked at Ric. "Or, you could perhaps pose as your br..."

Ric began shaking his head before Bays even finished that thought. "I'm no good at it." He insisted. "They caught me out far too quickly, last time I tried it. They won't fall for it for a moment."

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Aderic and Bays ended up having to work together. It was a bit of a relief, therefore, that having momentarily forgotten about the sleeping guards worked in their favour - as such. For Macardil had first been of a mind to perhaps send Bays to make sure the sleeping guards would not be surprising them at some point.. Though that was not to say that he had been entirely comfortable with that idea. For while Bays was willing to cooperate with them now, who was to say he wouldn't change his mind, if someone tried to convince him otherwise?

Macardil made sure Ziranphel was either next to him or in front of him as they followed the duo. It felt strange to also keep an eye on them, for that had not been a habit for Macardil, as a ranger. As their boots took them further and further down the castle, Macardil felt his chest tightening. He tried to ignore it to the best of his abilities. There is a way out, he told himself. Hardly anyone is awake within the castle to oppose us. I am not entering these dungeons. We are leaving them, as soon as we may.

He was so focused on trying to commit their route to memory, as well as listening and watching for any danger, in addition to trying not to get distracted by thoughts of Halberion and incarceration, Aderic halted them before Macardil thought he would. They were close to the dungeon entrance.

Ill-inclined to have any kind of discussion or even a lengthier talk now they were so close, Macardil indicated Bays. "Go distract him," he whispered to Bays. "As if you are bringing Aderic to the dungeons. When he is letting you pass, and his back is toward us, we will overpower him." Macardil glanced at Aderic. "Pretend to put up a fight. So you are interesting to watch."

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Aderic
Castle Ansellidus
Late Dec

Bays nodded slowly as Macardil gave a different plan than the one he had suggested. He turned to Ric, waiting.

Pretend to be a prisoner, again. Ric was a bit less enthused about the plan. It was one thing doing that, outside. But here, just outside the dungeon, it felt a lot riskier to trust himself to Bays. He still wasn't certain about the sergeant, but he relaxed slightly at hearing the last part of Macardil's plan. Pretend to fight. Interesting to watch. Right. He nodded thoughtfully. He could do that.

Bays took him by the arm as he had done before, and they set off. As they approached the door, the guard on duty stood up straighter. "Sergeant." He greeted Bays, curious to see him down this way.

"Got a prisoner for the dungeon," Bays explained. "Caught him trying to escape, and impersonating a guard."

The guard looked at Ric with a frown, then turned to Bays. "The jailor's a bit busy today. First the woman, now him.." He took out his key to open the door. "You'll find him in his office, sergeant."

Bays blinked and stood for a moment in confusion at that, before Ric gave a tiny, subtle nudge with his arm. "Thanks." Bays waited until he opened the door and started guiding Ric through.

Ric was also confused, wondering what woman they meant. But he figured they shouldn't let on that they were questioning it. They could look into it after they got through here. Ric waited until they were passing the guard, and then began to squirm. "No, let go of me, I don't want to go in there!" Ric protested suddenly, then lightly pushed Bays as if trying to get away from him, but not hard enough to break his grip on him.

While Ric began to fake struggle with Bays, the guard watched with a bit of surprise and amusement while the sergeant guided the struggling prisoner through the doorway. There wasn't often much that happened down at this post, so it was nice to have a bit of entertainment for a change. Besides, if the prisoner did get away from Bays, he would be watching and ready to grab Ric instead. So, he turned to keep watching even after they had passed him...

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Once Bays and Aderic set off, Macardil quietly told Ziran, for her ears alone: "If either or both of them turn on us..." He nodded at the bow and arrow she already had at the ready.If they did stick to the plan, however, his trust in them would rise, and it would see them to their end goal. Two birds, one stone.

When the sounds of protest reached their position, Macardil nodded at Ziranphel and cautiously peered around the corner. Aderic and Bays had passed beyond the doorway the guard was posted at, and the latter was indeed watching them. Effectively having turned his back to Ziran and Macardil.

The former ranger still knew how to be silent. He stealthily approached the guard, intending to do to him exactly what he had done to those they'd put in the wagon, at first. A rear naked choke. If it worked, the guard would silently pass out in about ten seconds...

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
The Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Macardil looked steady to all appearances, and he hadn’t countermanded her words to Bays or Aderic, which steadied her somewhat, as this was the first instance where she had chosen to exert her opinions clearly as an equal to others despite her history with command. Instead, he agreed and mentioned his choice to not take his bow, and retrieved his weapons that were more suited to close quarter fighting. The corner of Ziran’s lip tilted up slightly as she glanced at his choices before shifting back to Aderic for a response to her question. She had sensed a moment of surprise and indecision from the look Aderic gave her, but he conceded to lead the way. Nodding, she withdrew an arrow to hold at the ready in her bow hand and tilted her chin to prompt him to lead the way as Bay returned. The brief discussion over the spare sword nipped at her patience, but she held her peace, knowing they would be moving again sooner if she remained silent.


It was quickly clear that they hadn’t fully been paying attention as Aderic led off with Bays, leaving Ziran and Macardil to follow, but the two did move them along without too many hesitations. Ziran made sure she was to Macardil’s right as they proceeded through the halls a stride or two behind the others. They moved quietly, with only the occasional scuff of a sole and the light tapping of foot strikes. When they stopped near a corner, she listened carefully to the description of what they would likely be facing.


Ziran suppressed her internal sigh of impatience when Macardil insisted on the others doing playacting and distraction rather than just letting her round the corner and tell the guard to put his hands in the air or get an arrow through the eye. Compressing her lips, she stayed silent and brushed a finger over the fletching of her arrow to feel the riffle and smooth the veins. It was probably better to start without the threat of deadly violence, although knocking the man out would be a different kind of violence. This way there was also the chance they wouldn’t be remembered, even if it was slower. It was after the other two finally agreed on how to proceed and rounded the corner with their subterfuge in play that Macardil whispered to her about dealing with any false moves. So he was treating it as a trust exercise. She could deal with that. Ziran lifted her chin in acknowledgement and then shifted to peer around the corner with her bow low and apparently relaxed to her side, but with an arrow ready to draw.


When the guard fully turned away from them to watch Bays with Aderic and Macardil began to move, Ziran stepped out silently as well, lifting her bow to ready but not drawing it fully. She placed her feet deliberately and silently as she crept behind Macardil with her body and path angled slightly so that all she would have to do is lift her bow and draw if need be. Thankfully, both of them seemed to have been undetected thus far as Macardil reached to surprise the guard from behind with his barehanded attack.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Aderic
Castle Ansellidus
Late Dec

Having struggled to get away from Sergeant Bays earlier this very day, along with those other guards who were now apprehended, Ric could have easily gotten away from him if he had been really struggling. But he muted his efforts just enough to make sure that he appeared to be trying his best, while not actually letting Bays lose his grip on him entirely.

And yet, he was mindful of the noises and tried to keep from being so loud that the struggle might echo down the halls. Wherever Farchon was, he didn't want them to be caught by surprise if the jailor turned up to investigate sounds of a struggle.

When he saw the guard by the door sink to the floor, he stopped any pretense of struggling, and stepped closer to them. "Did you hear what he said?" He asked in a whisper, concerned. "Apparently there's a woman, too..? I have no idea who that could be." He really hoped it wasn't Alyssa, but surely not.. they would have called her Lady Ansellidus, right? So, who else could it be?

"Nor I," Bays declared, frowning. "No one told me anything about any women being taken prisoner." He was not too happy about that, since he was supposed to be the one all such things got reported to. They hadn't told him the report about Ric escaping, either, he recalled.

Ric was about to ask what the plan was from here... whether they wanted to look into this matter, and also to do about the key to the cell that lord Veranis was in, when the jailor's voice called from down the hall. Apparently, he hadn't been as quiet as he'd meant to be.

"What's all this noise?" The man appeared at one end of the dark hallway, carrying a torch as he approached those who were entering his domain.

As soon as he heard the other man's voice down the hall, Bays took hold of Ric's arm again and turned to face the man, approaching from the unlit hallway. "I'm bringing a prisoner down, to put him in a cell." He declared, then waited until the jailor had gotten near enough to speak without having to call down the hallway. "He's been causing a bit of a fuss about it, but he's proven he isn't satisfied in his rooms. I thought a change in his environment might make him more appreciative of the quarters he had before." He explained.

Ric glanced sideways at him, inwardly questioning whether he was playing a part, or if he had been tricking Ric into going down here all along. But, he recalled that Lord and Lady Himhathol had their weapons, even if he did not have any. Hopefully they wouldn't let Ric get put into a cell, and he felt sure that they could keep themselves from being locked up.

Farchon frowned as he took a closer look at the 'prisoner' and recognized Ric. "You were warned about that, weren't you?" He asked disapprovingly.

Ric pulled his arm free from Bays with a simple twisting motion of his arm, then faced the jailor. "How is Lord Veranis? Are you feeding him regularly, as I asked?" 'Demanded' was more like it, but 'asked' sounded nicer.

Farchon frowned at how easily he broke free from Bays. "You're in no position to be asking questions, here, prisoner." He pointed out, reminding the young man of his place as a prisoner. "He is well enough, if you insist on knowing." He added, a bit less sternly.

[Ercassie]

@Rillewen

Carpe Diem - Part 51


Iole Ishen, aboard the ‘Wingolost’. Finding Trevadir
In the company of some unscrupulous pirates (and a semi-conscious Cali)
Docked near Harlond harbour. On the last day of Autumn Festival, last year.

By the time that Trev had returned with his flask, Iole had eased Cali so that she was laid out as flat as possible with her head cushioned in her friend’s lap. She couldn’t encourage the other young woman enough to relax her right arm, and so it remained bent at the elbow, laid across her chest. And their brother was right. The forearm seemed to bend inwards and also, rather than at a proper angle, it looked something more like the curving arc of a longbow, indenting from close to the joint. Not good.

Trembling fingers accepted the water source and the former nursing student gently shook the canteen to determine how much they had to work with. “Thanks,” she tried to smile but the moment that she glanced down at the flask in her hand, she remembered. He had given her a drink, back at the fayre. Lowendir. Forcing off her frown, she took a deep breath and tucked dark hair behind her ears. Focus. Cali first.


The damp bonnet had made her friend cringe upon contact and the why had struck her only afterwards. Salt water, of course, they’d been at the shore. The bonnet had tasted mildly salty against her face. But there’d been nothing else for her to work with .. then. NOW there was something else, something better. Untangling the apron from about her waist took longer than it should have done but it felt good to have it away. For it was not hers. Lowendir must have put it on her because she had woken up wearing it. But why ? Why had he been dressing her ? Her own dress was still on as before, but he’d added things on top ..

“Cali, try a little drink of water,” she bade the other in s small voice, carefully tilting back the flask to have small spills of the refreshment trickle into her friend’s mouth. Not too much, not too fast. At least that was one skill she’d previously mastered. Iole then made a proper compress of the apron, wet it with a purposeful spill of the water and dabbed it gingerly against her friend’s brow. When Trev laid his hand upon her own shoulder, through the bars, Iole flinched instinctively, even as he began to try and reassure them. And then he said it. ‘I will do whatever I can to help you get you away from here’. Blue eyes fluttered as she blinked away the tears. He wanted them away .. of course. But .. from him ? He hadn’t said he would come with them. Why ? Why .. why would he phrase it like that ? She wanted to ask .. but she was afraid of the answer. Last time he hadn’t even said goodbye.


“He’s done with you, with all of you.” The pirate captain’s voice intruded unwelcome into her thoughts. Memory vomiting up the previous experience with just this sort of situation. “He doesn’t want anything more to do with you. He won’t be coming back. Best you forget him.”


“He .. had a knife,” she let her brother know, changing the subject. Keeping him involved. Forewarning him, in case Lowendir should roll up on board with the Captain. “The .. him. But I don’t see any wounds that would suggest he used it,” she puzzled. “If the blood came from her nose it could have been from trauma to her face. A nasal or ..” she swallowed nervously as she realised, “perhaps or a skull fracture .. possibly bleeding from the brain.” Running through the possible options was not at all comforting when the former, short-term nursing student had no way really to rule out any of them. Nor really how to treat them. Bedside manner, it was all that she had. It was not enough.

“A splint,” she mentioned then, as Trev started looking nervously toward his need to get back. “If you’re able. She’s holding the arm bent, so best something not too long, but not likely to snap easily. I’ll have to A-shape it. So,” the back of her one hand, brought up the wet apron and still managed to push dark hair away from where it was crowding her face. “At least five smallish pieces of material, cloth or canvas. Or one long that can be cut into smaller pieces. I could use some of my skirt ... Something long enough for a sling to support the weight of it. I think I remember how. And comfrey,” she put in her orders, as they occurred to her. “Feverfew, or vervain, Chamomile. Maybe white willow. You know,” she cited off the list that lessons had prepared for, and then recalled where they stood.


Quite where their brother might manage to find almost any of those things, she could not guess. But he had asked. He had offered. He would try, he said. None of the herbs she was thinking of now would likely grow on or anywhere around a ship .. nor out in the water ..

“Trev ..” Iole suddenly thought and called out after him, even as she could have kicked herself for making such a noise. “Noru.” she then all but whispered. The recollection had come to her even as her brother had almost left. “Those two before. They saw how Cali was hurt and they said maybe Noru could help. I don’t know. Do you know what that is ?”


She’d swallowed meekly at the mention of a secret stash but had no appetite for food right now. In fact she was far more likely to be sick from all the panic and dread. Best not think how long they might be stuck down here anyway. Not yet. Although .. of course, .. the likelihood seemed small this time of the Captain sending them off home. Maybe he was intending to drop them over the side of the ship or something to be sure they wouldn’t come back. Or maybe .. no. Focus. Not on what might happen. The patient will be calm if you are calm, she recollected the mantra now, that her friend’s own mother had taught her.

“If .. when they come back,” she wondered if he’d realised it yet, even as her gaze fell onto the flask in her hand, the state of her friend’s much cleaned up face. And she was sorry to realise it but it was inevitable all the same. “They’ll know you helped us,” she warned him.

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

The guard hadn't heard him. And so, swiftly enough, the man lost consciousness as Macardil clenched his arm aroun dhis neck. The lord slowly lowered the guard to the stone floor. He wondered whether it should still be surprising that no one had apparenty told Bays about the latest prisoner. From talk such as 'some other guy is really in charge when Lord Ansellidus isn't here', Macardil already surmised that Bays wasn't exactly the go-to man, not for at least part of the guards. And if they were steadily being replaced...

When a new voice echoed down the hall, coming from the dungeons, Macardil instantly assumed this would be the jailor. He quickly tried to think of their options. Retreat back around the corner, so the jailor would not see them, and perhaps speak more easily to Bays about the current state of affairs in the dungeons? That seemed like it would be interesting, but then Ziranphel and Macardil would need to move fast - and the guard would still be limp on the floor. And that would ruin the illusion for the jailor in a minute - at the most. Macardil was also pretty sure Ziranphel was not very keen on letting Aderic and Bays play this out. Honestly, a sentiment he understood, though he might be more open to it than his wife would be...

Well. He stepped back, motioning Ziran to do the same, out of the doorway to the dungeons, to stand beside the wall that Bays's figure was blocking out the most. Just so the jailor would get close enough, first, before he might see two strangers and an unconscious guard.
Aderic's question was of relevance to him, and definitely drew his attention. Feeding Lord Veranis? Regularly? As Aderic had asked? And the jailor did not deny it. In fact... did the man seem alright with Aderic having asked such a thing?

Macardil frowned as he stepped forward, half a step behind Bays still, and one step to the side, so the jailor would see him properly, now. "We are in such a position, however," he stated, his voice calm and athoritative. Firm, but almost with a hint of boredom. "Your own Lord has a responsibility to give fair trial to his prisoners. The closest courts are in Minas Tirith. Due to your Lord's absence, I understand proper arrangements have not been made in regards to your prisoners. However, considering the absence of your own Lord, a Ranger of Gondor - one of the King's rangers - is well within their rights to transport any such prisoners." Macardil indicated Ziranphel. "The Lady Cúner will be happy to show you her credentials, if need be." If she had them on her... He was not exactly certain of that. "We have come to see how many prisoners you are holding, so we can make the necessary arrangements." Macardil gave the jailor a thoughtful look, and one hand casually went to the handle of his most accessible axe. "Well, met, sir. My name is Lord Macardil Himhathol. The lady is Cúner Ranger Karis Ziranphel. Will any of this be a problem?"

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Aderic, Sergeant Bays, and Jailor Farchon
Castle Ansellidus
Late Dec

Farchon had just come from tending to the prisoner and placing another into a cell. Because of that, when he'd rounded the corner at the far end of the hall, he knew that he should have just enough light to return to his office. There was no natural light down here, as there were no windows. His torch was burning low, unable to illuminate as well as it had when he left his office almost an hour ago, but he had just enough light to make out at least a couple of figures entering the dungeon, much to his surprise.

Sergeant Bays had inadvertently blocked most of the view behind him, due to his rather wide figure, and the jailor had not noticed the others behind him before they stepped back out of view. Farchon might have taken notice of the guard on the floor, but he didn't have the chance, since Ric had drawn his attention onto himself with his questions.

So, when another, unknown person stepped out of the darkness and declared that he was in such a position, Farchon blinked in surprise, staring at the man. "And just who.." He started to ask, staring incredulously at the stranger making demands. His incredulity began to change into nervousness though, as Macardil went on. The jailor's eyes grew wider as he indicated the lady beside him, and called her a ranger of Gondor, and a Cúner on top of that! The bow in her hands left little room to doubt that claim, and he swallowed nervously, glancing at Bays questioningly.

"It's true," Bays confirmed. "I suggest you cooperate with them," he added.

Farchon hesitated, glancing from one to the other, and settled on Lord Himhathol. "I've only been following my orders, sir, please... believe me, I didn't even want this job..."

"You didn't answer the question." Ric mentioned softly, trying to bring Farchon's attention back to what Macardil had asked.

He hesitated, trying to decide what it would mean for him if he gave up the prisoner, and then lord Ansellidus came back and heard about it. "I..." He took note of the bow, and then the ax that Macardil's hand was resting on, and made up his mind. "I don't believe it will be a problem..." He answered, although he sounded uncertain about it. "I have only two at this time." He hesitated again before speaking again. "I would be relieved to turn them both over to your custody, but.. only if you will allow me to go along with you?" He asked anxiously. "I... don't really want to be here when the lord returns and.." He stopped, realizing maybe he'd said too much.

Ric breathed out a slow breath of relief to hear that the man was willing to cooperate, although he glanced curiously toward Macardil as he wondered whether he might extend the same offer to this guy as he had for Sergeant Bays.

Clearing his throat, Farchon went on. "Shall I retrieve the prisoners then? I will need to get a fresh torch, this one is nearly spent."

---

@Ercassie

Carpe Diem
|
Trev & Cali,
with Iole
On the pirate ship, Wingolost, anchored out of sight from Harlond
Last day of Autumn Fayre (last year)

Watching with concern while Iole worked on cleaning up the blood on Cali's face, Trev found that he couldn't quite make himself go. Not yet. Not until he had gotten a better look at his other sister, to see how badly she was hurt. And besides, Iole hadn't yet told him what all she'd need.

While she worked, it seemed that Cali was moaning or whimpering softly. She was in pain, that much was clear, but was it only from her arm, or from more? Trev wished he could get the ship's healer to help, but that wasn't exactly an option at the moment. Trev was going to have to do the best he could to help Iole. Thankfully, she had trained at the houses of healing. As far as he knew, she had been training for several years, right? She'd only just started there, when he went off with Dev. She must have learned plenty in that time.

He blinked out of his thoughts when she mentioned that 'he had a knife'. Looking at her, Trev nodded slowly when he understood that she meant this Lowendir fellow, whoever that might be. He frowned, listening as she went on to explain that she didn't think the blood had come from that. And then she mentioned the possibility of a skull fracture! He caught his breath, feeling that would surely be the worst possible scenario. Right? He breathed out slowly as he took a closer look at Cali.

"I'm no healer's apprentice," He mentioned quietly, looking more closely at Cali. "But I have seen a fair amount of... beatings." He finished in almost a whisper, reluctant to paint too harsh an image for Iole. And he sure wasn't about to say that when he usually saw this, it was in the mirror. "It doesn't look like a broken nose, at least?" He mentioned, trying to seek the positive. "But, I don't know how to tell if it was.. something else." He said with a frown.

"I can't tell from here," He added as another thought hit him, "But does she have any gashes on her head? Maybe up past the hairline or something, where it's harder to find? Head wounds put out a lot of blood, right?" Trev remembered that girl he'd met and helped a few years ago, who'd had a bad gash on her forehead. It had been quite obvious, but it hadn't been hidden by hair. Still, the blood on Cali looked like it mostly came from her nose, since he didn't see as much above that point.

When Iole began listing the things she could use, Trev straightened as he was reminded that he had been about to take off before getting distracted. He nodded, mentally repeating the items she had listed. Splint, bandages, a sling, comfrey, feverfew, vervain, chamomile, white willow... he wasn't sure how much of that he'd be able to scrounge up, but he would certainly do his best. "Right. I'll see what I can find." He nodded, then turned for the door again, only to turn back when she called his name again.

When she spoke the name of the ship's healer, Trev blinked in surprise. But she soon explained how she'd come to hear that name. Trev nodded slowly. "He's the ship's healer." He answered quietly. "But, he isn't exactly.. available, right now." He added regretfully, without going into further details. "But I should be able to find some things in the infirmary," he added, in hopes of reassuring her. He started to turn again, when that gentle warning came from her lips. Concern, for him.

Trev paused, taking a moment to push down the anxiety that had sprung up at that comment, before turning back to her with a wan smile. "I know." He assured her, softly. "You just let me worry about that." He told her, trying not to seem all that concerned, so she would not worry. Giving her a small, reassuring nod, he slipped through the door and hurried off to the galley.

He knew he was going to make some enemies. That was nothing new. He knew his crewmates were going to be very upset with him for it. That was also nothing new. The problem, of course, was that it was getting to be such an old song, that he was really pushing his luck by this point. He'd been warned over and over. He'd been suspected of helping captives escape before, and he'd been caught trying to help them escape. Each time, he pushed his luck further and further to the limit, and he didn't know how close he might be to that limit. But this... these were his sisters. He couldn't NOT help them. He would push his luck as far as he needed to, even if he ended up having to forfeit his own life to save them. Because that is what real family does for one another.

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Her eyebrows drew together with a frown in the dim light when, after Macardil had eased the guard to the ground unconscious, Aderic approached and whispered about an unknown woman and Bays also indicated no knowledge of the person. They would have to keep an eye out for other prisoners in the cells. Then the voice of another sounded from the hallway before them, and Ziran was willing to step back into the shadows at Macardil’s wave while the other two moved forward to continue their charade.

It sounded as if the jailor, Farchon, was a bit more amenable if he was providing regular meals at the request of a prisoner, even if that prisoner was the Lord’s brother. Somewhat anticipating Macardil’s intent as she felt him begin to move, she moved behind and slightly to his side as before, proceeding into the dungeon hallway. When he spoke to introduce the two of them and establish their authority, she stepped forward to his side with her bow still in her hand, and nodded silent acknowledgement to the jailor in the flickering light of the torch.

Sight of the two of them bearing weapons seemed to give the man pause, and he offered up that he only had two prisoners and would be willing to hand them over in exchange for going along to Minas Tirith. Ziran’s eyes narrowed slightly, but then she nodded once again. It made sense that he would fear for his position if he were to remain, and if Bays had spoken rightly before, there should be no further opposition on this level. It might not be true on their return. “We would be glad of your assistance, jailor, but we will accompany you for both your protection and our peace of mind. It is for your benefit if we accompany you throughout, and I charge you to deal fairly with us, and we will deal fairly with you. We will ensure the King’s justice is carried out. Lead the way.” Removing the arrow from her string as a sign of good faith, she motioned for him to proceed, although she did not actually return the arrow to her quiver yet. She didn’t fully trust his words yet.

[Ercassie]

@Rillewen

Carpe Diem - Part 52


Iole Ishen, aboard the ‘Wingolost’. Finding Trevadir
In the company of some unscrupulous pirates (and a semi-conscious Cali)
Docks of Harlond harbour. On the last day of Autumn Festival, last year.

She had failed to meet Trev’s eyes, when he claimed that he had seen a fair amount of .. beatings. Given their recent company it did not require genius to work out how. Or where. His crew mates were certainly not above throwing their weight around, as she’d seen for herself in even so brief an experience of them. Iole might have felt sorry for the man who was charged with keeping such a collective in order, if she didn’t know already who that was. What kind of a man would run such a gang ? Would allow for such goings on as she had already witnessed ? Her ‘brother’s father … But .. they had called Trev ‘the brat’ and had seemed to know that he would try to help them, even before she was very glad that he had. And there was food .. stored in the cell. She let her mind fall in that direction anew, even if her blue eyes did not follow. They weren’t the first who’d been locked in here.

The revelation of ‘Noru’ was a startling distraction, which revealed that there was both a healer and an infirmary aboard the ship. She had not expected that, but then it was not as though she had ever set a good deal of time aboard any ship. So the young woman sank into a more settled state with legs laid more aside than under her. As the thought begin to breed hope. Maybe he could find the things which would help Cali then, after all ? Maybe they would be able to ready the herbs to be of use. With the right ... A glance down at he own shaking hand reminded her not to get carried away before time. Of course, technically, she already had.


But .. if .. when those men came back … ‘Let me worry about that’, Trev had told her. Too late. For she was already worried about that, about him, about them .. Despite that their estranged ‘sibling’ had claimed before that he had an idea how to keep the crew away from the girls. Maybe he had done this before, and knew exactly what he was doing .. But .. then that would mean, it had happened .. how many times before ? What even was this all about ? Things like this just didn’t happen ! Except that they did. They had before. One brother murdered, another almost .. And now this ...

“There is no sign of bleeding from the ears,” she admitted softly in answer, as her thinking aloud had perhaps begun to panic the young man about Cali’s condition. “Facial injuries bleed profusely. Not head injuries in general.” Of course Trevadir had already sped off, to do .. whatever it was that he thought he could do. So Iole simply told Cali all the same, smoothing her friend’s long hair with one hand, gently. In case she’d begun to worry as well. But no, Cali did not seem to be any more aware of what was going on than .. well, than she was herself, to be fair. Hopefully Trev really could help. Maybe she could convince him that she’d need his help to get Cali far enough away .. then he would be away, with them. Because if she could only hand him that distance .. he would have to convince himself to come back .. here. And honestly she couldn’t see why he would want to be .. here ... any more than she did.

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Even if the jailor's compliance was the result he had been aiming for, and even if Aderic had mentioned something - or so Macardil thought he remembered it, at least - about believing the jailor would agree to a deal; it still seemed... too easy.

He was glad to leave further conversation to Ziranphel, although part of him worried that if the torch might go out before there was a chance Ziran or himself to carry one. Part of him worried that the jailor might still lead them into a trap. Macardil could feel the unease settling all about him as the man, carrying that dwindling torch, led them deeper into the dungeon halls. It was colder, here, just like the dungeons in Minas Tirith had been. But these... these were far damper. Far less maintained. The odour was far worse. He noted the moss and grimaced. Prisoners here would much more easily fall ill in such conditions. Hal...

He needed a distraction.

"What is your name?" he asked the man. Macardil would prefer to address him with something other than 'jailor', after all. And names held power.

Thankfully, the jailor soon retrieved a new torch. Macardil's uneasiness about Halberion spending years in this place, soon enough took over completely from his concerns about the jailor. He wanted to ask the jailor what kind of state Hal was in. But he also did not wish to ask. He could have asked Aderic the same question -many times, by now. There were reasons Macardil had chosen not to. Now that they were closing in, however, he did mentally debate which option would be better. To be able to prepare for the state he would find his best friend in? Or to postpone the knowledge - even if it only was for a few minutes.

Throughout everything, Macardil kept his hand on the handle of his weapon. Every so often, he glanced at Ziranphel, and gave her a nod or a small (and slightly hollow) smile. He wanted to ask the jailor which of the prisoner was closest. But the lord found that he had no words, at present.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Aderic, Sergeant Bays, and Jailor Farchon
Castle Ansellidus
Late Dec

As the jailor agreed to take them to Lord Veranis, Ric silently breathed out a sigh of relief. Although he still remembered the way Farchon and Thinnion had deceived him before, he was hoping that since he was now here with a proper lord of Gondor, and one of the king's rangers, that he would not think to do such a thing again. Also, it seemed somewhat fortunate that the darkness due to the dim torch, added to the fact that they were all sort of standing in the way, had helped to hide the unconscious guard from the man's sight.

Once they had begun to travel lower into the dungeon, following the jailor down the halls by the light of the dimming torchlight, Ric was sharply reminded of the damp and the smell, and how difficult it had been for him to keep going, the last time. This time, at least, he was sure that there was really a prisoner here who needed to be freed. He pushed down his own anxiety, and tried his best to pay attention to every turn they made.

Somewhat caught off guard by the question posed to him, the jailor turned to glance at Macardil. "Farchon, m'lord." He answered with a dip of his head. He picked up an unlit torch from a wall bracket as they passed and used his dying one to light the fresh one. There were a few of these at various points along the hallway, but they were unlit to preserve resources. With the infrequency of any visitors down this way, there seemed little point in keeping torches lit except for one, which he would carry.

As they approached another one of these unlit torches, Ric took it from its bracket and held it up to Farchon's torch, because he did not entirely like the idea of the jailor being the only one with a torch. He had done the same thing during his first trip down here, he recalled, and he had left that torch behind in the cell for the unfortunate man he'd been forced to leave behind. This time, he would make sure that no one was left behind if there was anything he could do about it.

At length, Farchon stopped before a solid wooden door on the left-hand side of the corridor, with a small square cut out near the top. This was covered with a sliding shutter, which was closed. A hefty iron bolt went across the door, holding it securely closed. Farchon pulled his keyring from his belt and prepared to open the door.

Ric frowned slightly as he glanced around. He hesitated for a few seconds, debating whether he was just being paranoid, or if he should speak up about something. He looked at one side of the hall, then the other, then shook his head slightly. "Hold on.." He spoke up, as Farchon fitted the key into the lock. "This.. something isn't right." Ric's voice was low, and a bit uncertain.

Farchon glanced up, giving him a slightly puzzled smile. "Sir? I don't know what you mean."

Ric hesitated. "I thought.." He started, then stopped. "Has he been moved to another cell, since I was here?"

"No sir." Farchon answered patiently. "I assure you, it's the same one."

Ric frowned, glancing at Macardil and Karis before turning back to Farchon. "Well, wasn't the door.. on the right side of the hall, before?"

Farchon blinked. "I believe you're mistaken, sir."

Was he mistaken? Ric looked at the right-hand side of the hall, thinking back, trying to erase any doubt in his mind. It had been a month ago. And he had been rather turned around. And.. no. He remembered specifically that it had been to his right. "No." He turned back to Farchon, his frown deepening. "It was on the right. I remember..."

"Ahh," Farchon suddenly got a look of realization. "I remember now. We came from the other direction, that day. You must have gotten turned around," He explained with a little smile. "So yes, coming from that way, everything would seem turned around. I assure you, it is the correct door." He insisted. "See for yourselves," He invited, stepping back with a gesture to take a look into the cell.

Ric hesitated at this explanation. He looked down the hallway, which disappeared into darkness beyond the light of their torches. He couldn't tell if there was another way out. Could that be it? Was he overreacting? After taking a moment to think, he slowly shook his head, eyes narrowing slightly in suspicion. "No. I don't think so. The path we've just followed was too familiar to me to be a different one." He decided at length, staring hard at Farchon. "You tricked me once before," He recalled. "And I think you're trying to, again."

Farchon looked offended. "Trick you?" He took a step back, as if the accusation had caused him to do so. "Why would I want to do that?" He asked, glancing around at them all, as if anxious for them to believe his good intentions.

"I'm not sure." Ric frowned. "I am sure that the door was on the right, however, and this is not it. So whatever deceptive plan you may have had, you may as well forget it."

"Deceptive plan? I only-"

"Which is the correct door, Farchon?" Ric demanded, getting a bit annoyed by all of this.

He stared at Ric in silence, then glanced nervously at the others, and swallowed. "I.. I come here every day. Don't you think I know which door it is? You were here only once, several weeks ago." He pointed out.

"Yes, I think you know exactly what door it is," Ric confirmed softly. "But I also believe you are trying to trick or trap us. Perhaps to gain some favor with my brother, if he ever returns? In hopes that he might not punish you for letting his prisoner go?" He made a guess, based on what he'd come to understand of many of the other servants' fears. Those who were not Umbarian or otherwise foreign, that is. "It will not work, I promise you."

Farchon swallowed nervously, then suddenly turned to run, only to be swiftly stopped by sergeant Bays, who had kept quietly with the group. "Not so fast, jailor." He frowned, shaking his head as he kept a tight grip on him. Once he had Farchon in a secure grip, Bays looked at Macardil for further directions on what to do with the man.

---

@Ercassie

Carpe Diem
|
Trev & Noruiven
On the pirate ship, Wingolost, anchored out of sight from Harlond
Last day of Autumn Fayre (last year)

Trev hastened to the galley, trying not to think too hard about the sight of his sister, bloody-faced and broken-armed. He had no idea, personally, how to tend to that sort of injury. But Iole did, right? She had trained at the houses of healing. He remembered that she'd started there, not long before he left home. That was many years to have been training. Even if she'd taken some time off during the most intense part of the war.. he paused in his thinking, wondering a little bit about how that worked. Wouldn't healers have been in high demand during that time?

Whatever. There was probably some sort of explanation, but it would have to wait. Hearing the voices of Scar and Grisly approaching the area, Trev swiftly ducked down behind a barrel and waited. They sounded annoyed, and it was evident that they were looking for him. He held his breath as he listened to them look around, decide he wasn't there, and go to check elsewhere. Trev smiled faintly in relief as he emerged, then hurried to the healer's cabin.

Inside, it was dark. The only porthole in the cabin had the curtains drawn, and there was not much daylight that could have gotten through it even if the curtains had been open. Trev paused to let his eyes adjust, blinking for a moment.

"Who's 'er?" A weary, half asleep mumble came from the bed.

Trev winced slightly, realizing he had wakened the man. "Sorry, it's me, Trev." He whispered, venturing nearer. "How are you, Noru?" He asked softly, in sympathy. The healer had protested a bit too vehemently against some of the crew's actions toward the last batch of captives they'd taken on board, and he had taken a rough beating as a result. Healers were very difficult to replace, and Noru was good at it, so they had made sure not to harm him so badly that he would die. Still, Trev felt like they'd cut it a bit too close this time.

Noru grunted irritably in answer to Trev's question. "I'll live, I guess." He muttered. "What's going on, anyway?"

Trev sighed, rubbing a hand over his face. "I need some supplies." He told him quietly, venturing toward the medicinal supply cabinet.

"Mm. You know what you're doing?" The healer wondered, raising his head slightly to try and see.

"I.. know what I need." Trev answered, squinting in the dim light to read a label on a jar.

"There's a lantern, by the desk." Noru reminded him, his voice sounding a bit shaky.

"Right, thanks." Trev smiled in relief. He quickly lit the lantern and turned the flame low enough that it hopefully wouldn't bother the injured man. "First, I need something to make someone sleep," He told him. "Preferably liquid?"

Noru gave him an inquisitive look, while clearly waiting for more information.

Trev hesitated, but gave a little sigh. "Alright, here's what's going on," He moved close to his bedside so he could explain the situation in a whisper. "They've smuggled two girls on board, and I happen to be very close friends with them both. One of them is injured, so I need some supplies to help her. The other is a healer apprentice or nurse or something, I don't know.. I haven't been around her in a few years, but anyway..." He drew in a slow breath. "Most of the crew is still away, getting cargo, so this is like the best chance I'll have to try and help them. But I need to do something about Scar and Grisly, because they're intent on guarding the door..." He smiled faintly. "That's why I need the sleeping stuff..."

Noru listened with a patient expression, then slowly nodded. Approvingly. He turned to look over at the shelves of jars and such. "You'll want that vial.. the third one from the left, on the top shelf." He told Trev. "It's a blend, I use for a sedative when I need to get a patient to sleep." He explained, before adding instructions on how much to add, and a warning about what too much of a dose might do.

Trev nodded, listening closely. "Thanks." He tucked that into an inner shirt pocket. "I'll also need some things for my friend, but I want to deal with this first. I'll be right back." He slipped out of the infirmary cabin, glancing around to check. He saw no sign of the other two, so he made his way cautiously to the crew quarters.

---

Cali,
with Iole
In the ship's brig

Cali was not enjoying whatever adventure the boys had dragged them into this time. What had it been, anyway? Had they been racing carts down the streets again? Did she wreck? Is that why her arm was hurting? She felt a little confusion as she struggled to bring her memory back up to date on what was happening. She really just wanted to go to sleep, but somehow she kept thinking that was not what she was supposed to do. Besides, her arm hurt a bit too much to get comfortable.

There had been something to do with Rip, she remembered, as a soft whimper escaped her throat. He'd done something. He had.. that's right, he'd pulled her out of the swing, and she'd hurt her arm when she hit the ground. Right? What a jerk! "Rip," She mumbled faintly. "T'was him." She wanted to be sure that Iole knew the culprit, and also to beware, in case he was still lurking around.

A sudden noise roused her slightly, as two rather obnoxious voices burst into the room. Cali blinked her eyes open and tried to make sense of the scene around her. This wasn't the school play yard. Nor anywhere she could quite place. And Iole... Cali tried to focus on her friend, realizing that of course, they weren't kids anymore. So, the school yard thing wasn't right...

---

Scar & Grisly

"I tell you, he lured us away so he could get in here." Grisly grumbled irritably, as he pushed open the door to the brig. There was no sign of the kid, though.

"How could he even know, though?" Scar demanded, scoffing.

"How should I know? But why else would he.." Grisly took a good long look at the two captives, frowning. "Wait, weren't you two tied?" He scratched his head, trying to recall.

"Has he been in here?" Scar demanded to know, pushing past his buddy. "Where is he? He's got some explaining to do." He was speaking to Iole, since the other girl didn't really look like she was in any sort of condition to respond to questions. He crouched near the bars, peering intently at the young women in the cell.

---

Trev

After listening at the door to the crew's quarters for a moment, Trev heard no voices or other noises. Therefore, he felt safe in assuming they were not there, so he stepped in and crossed over to the table where they had been playing cards. A couple of glasses, almost full with whatever drink they had been working on, were also on the table, temporarily abandoned by the pair of pirates as they searched for Trev.

He glanced around, then carefully poured the amount Noru had suggested into each glass, swirled each glass a couple of times to help it mix in thoroughly., then slipped back out. There was still no sign of them, so he hastened to Noru's cabin again.

---

Scar & Grisly

"Scar, he's obviously not here." Grisly grumbled, rolling his eyes. "Come on, he'll turn up sooner or later. Let's get back to our game. You know they're off limits, unless the captain says otherwise. And he ain't here, as we now know well enough." He added in a huff, as they had just spent several minutes searching the ship for the captain, and then several more minutes searching for his son, to demand answers. "Come on." He insisted impatiently.

Scar scowled in annoyance at that reminder, but he straightened up. His gaze lingered on the girls for a moment longer before he let Grisly pull him back into the other room to resume a far less exciting sort of entertainment.

---

|
Trev & Noruiven

Noru was waiting to hear how it had gone, and he seemed to relax slightly when Trev returned. "Well?" He asked anxiously.

"I didn't see them anywhere, but I put the stuff in their drinks." Trev whispered, slipping the vial back into its place.

"Good." Noru smiled weakly. "Now, for your friend. Tell me what you need, and I'll direct you to where I keep it, if I have any."

"Right, I need, uh," Trev quickly thought back to the items Iole had listed. "She asked for comfrey, white willow, vervain, or feverfew, chamomile.. bandages, and a splint, and a sling. Do you have those?" he asked, hopeful.

Noru's frown grew a little deeper. "How bad is she hurt?" he asked quietly, trying to get an idea of what such things were being used for, exactly.

Trev hesitated. "All I know for sure is, she had blood all over her face, but we think it came from her nose. It didn't look broken to me, but there are bruises... and her arm's.. funny." He frowned. "It looks broken, but I don't know what to do. And," he added, concerned, "she seems sort of... dazed. Like she's not fully aware of what's going on, or something."

The healer sighed as he rested his head back on his pillow, frowning. "Sounds like she's in shock." He muttered, concerned. He took a moment to think, then began to direct Trev toward the bottles and jars that would be useful. The bandages were kept in a drawer, and Trev gathered as many as he thought he might need, then stuffed everything into a large kerchief that he figured would work for a sling.

Noru had, thankfully, planned well ahead for every possible sort of injury, as well as he could. One of the places they had been to not too long ago, had some bamboo growing wild, and he'd gathered up a good many lengths of it, which were stashed in a corner. Trev grabbed one of the shorter pieces, which was still longer than what Iole needed, and gave a nod of approval. "Thanks, all of this should definitely help." Trev declared, relieved to have found something to help Cali.

"Wish I could help her, myself," Noru sighed with a regretful glance down at himself. He could hardly get out of bed right now, let alone try to tend to any patient.

"I know," Trev said softly. "Don't worry. Iole's been doing this for a while, she can probably manage." He smiled encouragingly and lowered the lantern's wick so that it only put out a small bit of light, so the healer could get some rest again. "Thanks for the help." He added, then made his way out of the cabin, carrying the short bamboo pole, and the bundle of other things.

---

Trev

Trev stopped at the door to the crew's quarters, hearing the pirate's voices in there, now. He moved to stand to the side of the door, listening. It seemed they had searched around the ship for him a couple of times before eventually getting frustrated with their lack of success, and had given up. They were just resuming their game, now. Trev listened, worried that his plan might not work. What if they didn't drink their drinks? What if they tasted the stuff, and spit it out? What if...

It seemed to take a few minutes of listening to them play whatever their game was, before their voices grew quieter. Then, a few minutes later, he heard snoring. Trev breathed out in relief, and cautiously peeked in. He smiled, tiptoeing past the two sleeping pirates, and finally returned to the brig where Iole was waiting for the supplies.

"Sorry it took me so long," He whispered, coming to kneel almost in the same place that Scar had been, only a few minutes before. "But I got everything, I think." Trev set the bundle on the floor and began passing things through the bars to Iole. "I'll need to cut this down to the right length, but it should work well for a splint." He explained, holding up the bamboo piece. "Just tell me how long?"

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

When the jailor turned and led the way further into the dark of the dungeon hallway, Ziran decided to sling her bow for ease of movement and to keep her hands free. These halls were not maneuverable enough to make the bow a useful weapon in a pinch. The long-bladed dagger at her belt would be much quicker and easier to use if it was needed, and she wasn’t entirely sure how much they could trust this man. If he led them truly and cooperated, well and good. If not, she wanted to be prepared.

The hallway was just wide enough for two to walk beside one another, and Ziran fell in next to her husband again as Aderic and Bays followed close behind the jailor who had named himself Farchon, matching the earlier description. She didn’t particularly like being so far from the torch, but also didn’t want anyone following and heming them in. The light was dispersed by the shadows of the men ahead of them, but she could sense Macardil’s tension. He had lived many months in dark such as this, and despite the dungeons in Minas Tirith being drier and less dank, walking these halls brought back memories of her own of carrying a flickering candle to meet him. Casting frequent glances at him, she noted his grim smiles and nods in return. After the first several, she found his free hand with her own and simply slipped her fingers between his.

When they eventually drew to a halt before a heavy door, she listened intently for any sound beyond it, while splitting her attention between the men in front of her and her husband at her side. There had been two prisoners mentioned, so she was a bit confused by the argument that broke out. Had the jailor claimed this was Halberion? Her gaze darted between the two arguing. Well, apparently now he was inferring it by referring to a previous trip, while Aderic claimed it was the wrong door? Her brows drew together in a frown, and she released Macardil’s hand after a final brush of her thumb over the back of his knuckles. She wasn’t entirely prepared for Farchion to bolt suddenly, but thankfully Sergeant Bays was closer and able to collar him quickly.

A sigh worked its way out of her chest, and she let the sound settle a moment before she stepped forward to prise the torch and keys out of Farchion’s hands, ready to dodge if he decided to swing the flaming brand. If he resisted, he would feel her knife point instead of an open hand. “How about I take these and you just point out the correct doors from here on out. For both of the prisoners you are holding. Now…who or what is behind this door that you led us to? The truth this time.”

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Aderic, Sergeant Bays, and Jailor Farchon
Castle Ansellidus
Late Dec

Farchon frowned as Lady Himhathol came over and took his torch and keys from him, while Bays held him so he could not get away. He didn't resist, but he wasn't too pleased about it. He glanced briefly at the others present before returning his gaze to the lady, hesitating for a few seconds. "I.. well, that is the correct door... for the other prisoner. The lady." He explained. He cast a frown toward Ric, as if annoyed at him for having been suspicious. "Go in, you'll see." He insisted.

Ric blinked, then looked down with embarrassment as he realized the hole in his accusation. Now that he realized it, he was feeling sort of foolish for having not even thought about the possibility that they were going to free the other prisoner first. The entire route had seemed so much like they were traveling to Lord Veranis, that he had simply assumed that was where they were going. It hadn't occurred to him at all that the lady prisoner might also be kept in the deepest part of the dungeon, this close to the other prisoner. He had no idea who she even was, nor why she was being held here.

Bays frowned, however. "Then.. why did you say that it was 'his' cell?" He asked, puzzled by that. "You said, just a moment ago, that 'he' had been in this cell, all the time. That it was the same one that he'd been to before." He gestured to Ric.

Ric looked up at that. "That's right." He realized. "And you tried to convince me that I had gotten turned around," he frowned. "If the lady prisoner is in this cell, why did you not just say that?"

Farchon stared at them in silence. Now he was the one to feel like an idiot, realizing that he'd completely messed up. Lying was definitely not his strong suit, and it had been a last-minute choice to try and pull this, after spending the entire walk down here, thinking about the possible repercussions that would come to him if he let these people take Lord Ansellidus' prisoners.

"Answer the lady's question, Farchon." Ric frowned, somewhat disappointed that he had apparently decided to try tricking them. Ric had really thought that he'd have been eager to accept the same sort of deal that Bays had been offered. It seemed he'd been wrong.

Farchon shook his head, keeping quiet since he couldn't think of any sort of lie that might be believable and achieve the hastily-thought-up plan he had contrived.

"Answer it, Farchon." Bays insisted next, giving a little squeeze on the jailor's arms.

"Alright," He gave in reluctantly. "The lady prisoner's cell is close to where I encountered you all," he admitted. "I didn't know what to do with her. The guards brought her and told me to keep her here, until further notice," He explained. "But the other..." He hesitated. "I'm afraid that's all I can tell you." He decided. Having been at this castle, serving under the young lord for a long time now, he very much doubted that they would really follow through with any of their promises of fair treatment. Lord Ansellidus made plenty of empty promises to people, only to go back on it when he had what he wanted from them. So why would these people be any different?

"You agreed to cooperate, didn't you?" Ric asked, frowning. "You can't just keep them locked up for no reason, you know. And they're entitled to a trial if there is any reason."

After a little hesitation, Farchon spoke again. "You don't understand... Lord Ansellidus would be furious with me," The man answered faintly, swallowing with nervousness as he glanced past Ric, at the lord and lady. "I don't like being a jailor, but I do like being alive. And if he learns that I turned over this prisoner..." He looked a little pale at the thought of it. "Please, I.. I dare not fail at the one thing I was supposed to do.. he made it very clear what would happen if I ever let this man get out... No one was even supposed to know about him..." His voice sounded pleading. "I was already pushing my luck, going along with your demands, sir Aderic," He added with a glance at him. "You put me in quite a spot, you know."

Ric turned away with a sigh, shaking his head in frustration. If he hadn't managed to get out of his own prison and talk to the lord and lady here with him, it was likely that no one would ever have known. "I know we're close to lord Veranis," He muttered, looking at the doors on the right-hand side. They all looked the same to him, however. "I... might be able to find the right door," He added, uncertainly, trying to think of how to recognize the correct door. Then, he remembered that while he hadn't thought to be counting the doors on the way to the cell, he had done so on the way from it. Feeling hopeful, he pulled his rough-drawn map out of his pocket as he took a quick count of the doors that they'd already passed, then he looked at the map to see which one it should be. "Ah, yes..." He smiled in relief as he began walking, then stopped two doors further down the hall.

When Ric stopped at the correct door and slid open the shutter so he could look inside, Farchon let his head drop in defeat as he imagined the terrible fate that he would probably suffer when the lord returned and found out how he had failed in his job.

"Here, this is it." Ric called with relief, stepping aside to allow Lady Himhathol to use the keys she had taken from Farchon. His torch hadn't been able to illuminate the man very much, but he had been able to see that he was, definitely, in there, and now they could get him out, at last.

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Apparently the answer to her question had been that there was nothing behind the door, but she wasn’t sure why he had tried the ruse with them to start with, even if he had feared his master’s return. There were several of them there with weapons. It wasn’t the same as overpowering one person and locking them into a cell. Thankfully he hadn’t resisted when she took his keys and the torch, but that didn’t mean he wouldn’t do something foolish again. Ziran’s gaze narrowed on the jailor as she listened to the back and forth between him and Aderic, and then she turned to hand the torch in her hand to Macardil with a wordless look. She wanted a hand free, and she thought it would be better for him to be in control of some of their light.

It was discouraging to hear him finally admit that they had already passed the woman prisoner’s cell, but perhaps that meant they could find Halberion first and relieve Macardil’s concerns before discovering her identity on their way out? Except Farchon didn’t want to show them where to go. Ziran was just beginning to resign herself to needing to try every door, when Aderic mused aloud about his recollection of the dungeon layout. When Aderic took off to lead them further down the hallway, Ziran stepped past Bays and the jailor to follow him while motioning for Macardil to stay with her. “Bring Farchon along.” They wouldn’t release him into the dark.

Their progress halted only two doors further down, and Aderic proclaimed out loud with a tone of relief that “he” was there after placing the torch up to the opening in the door. With some anticipation catching at her throat, Ziran stepped forward with the keys, trying first one and then another before the lock gave with slight resistance. Lifting the bolt and sliding it open, she pulled the handle and stepped back to swing the door open into the hall as she lifted her voice to speak. “Lord Veranis. I hope you don’t mind visitors from the King.” Her words were calm as she alerted the occupant to their friendly nature while tilting her head and motioning for Macardil to precede her with his torch to identify his friend. She would watch his back and guard the door from closing. “Or at least a good friend.” The man didn’t know her to recognize her voice, but she hoped even hearing a woman’s voice would be different enough to bring alertness if he was well enough to be coherent. Macardil’s face would be more welcome than hers.

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

As they went on their way, Aderic lit a second torch. Which was... an improvement. There had been so little light, so little warmth, in the dungeons in Minas Tirith. Two torches, even if not held by him but held close enough to him by others, felt like a luxury in comparison to Macardil's memories. The feeling of Ziran's hand in his was, at first, a surprise. And then a very welcome reminder of what warmth her presence had brought the last time they'd been in dungeons together, as well.

A frown settled on his brow when Aderic and Farchon had words, however. His patience was wearing thin, now, with the added edge he was now on, given the locale. Ziran let go of his hand, and Macardil used it to rub at his temple while his wife claimed the keys and the torch from Farchon. Fear clamped around his heart when the jailor referenced Halberion, then hesitated and refused to say any more. What did that mean? Was he alright? Was he still alive?

Macardil had to remember all the times his mother had sat him down, to teach him about the importance of equilibrium. He closed his eyes for a moment, holding onto his composure. Strengthening it. When he looked back at the scene before him, Ziranphel was handing him the torch she had removed from the jailor's hands. And Aderic had just started walking. Ziranphel followed - and gestured her request for him to stay close to her side.

A request he would accommodate. Apparently, not for very long however. For once Aderic stopped at a door which was relatively close, declaring that door was the correct one, Ziran did not hesitate to use the keys to unlock it. And then she all but introduced him, before signalling he should enter.

Macardil held her gaze for a moment, while he swallowed back his anxiety. What would he find? In what kind of condition would Halberion even be?

After drawing in a deep breath, Macardil moved. The torch lit the cell as he walked inside, and blue eyes sought the figure who was being held within. "Hal?"

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Aderic, Sergeant Bays, and Jailor Farchon
Castle Ansellidus
Late Dec

As Lady Himhathol gave the order to bring Farchon, Bays nodded, though he briefly glanced toward the lord. Since he did not give any different instructions, Bays did as the lady had ordered, though he now kept to the back of the group with the jailor.

Ric, meanwhile, stepped aside to allow Lady Himhathol enough room to try the various keys. And yet not too far back, so his torch would provide enough light, in addition to the one she had passed to her husband. Once the door was open, he hung back. While he was very anxious to know if the imprisoned lord had really been given more food since the last time Ric was here, he didn't want to cause any possible distress to him, considering how much he looked like the very person who had done this to him.

However, once Lord Himhathol had gone in to speak with him, Ric could not resist taking a cautious glance past the lady, into the cell. He was pleasantly surprised to see that the man was indeed looking better, and less thin, than the last time he had seen him. Though he was still not in the best condition, of course, he didn't look quite so weak and feeble as he had, before. That was a relief. Having assured himself of this, Ric stepped back and waited where he would not be seen by those inside the cell, and turned his attention toward helping Bays keep an eye on Farchon.

---

Lord Halberion Veranis

He heard voices out in the corridor, but they were faint. It was enough to get his attention, however, and he instantly became alert. His daily visit from the jailor had already come and gone, and he was sure that it hadn't been all that long ago. So what was going on? Who was out there? He had been starting to work on his exercises, but now he paused, wondering if someone was coming to bother him. Had the imposter returned at last? He practically held his breath while he waited, trying to hear something that would give him some indication of what to expect, but the door muffled the voices well enough that it was difficult to make out what was being said.

Then he heard the keys in the lock. The jailor, or someone, was coming in here. Not knowing what to expect, Hal made sure that he was resting on the floor, back against the stone wall with his arms held suspended over his head by the chains. He had been careful, over the past month, not to let Farchon realize that he was regaining some of his strength. And since he had no idea who might be coming now, he didn't want to reveal that information to them, either.

He did, however, look intently toward the door when it began to open. At first, only a dim bit of light filtered into the cold cell, accompanied by a voice. But the voice was that of... a woman? That alone was enough to pique his curiosity, but what was even more surprising was the fact that she spoke his name. Straightening a little against the wall, Hal listened a bit warily at first, until he heard the rest of her words. Then he blinked with intrigue. Visitors? From the King? He had heard a small bit of news about that from Alyssa before she'd been taken away, enough to not be surprised to hear that there was a king in Gondor now. But as far as he knew, that king had no idea that Hal was alive, let alone where he might be found. So how..?

To further his confusion, the lady added, 'or at least a good friend'. A good friend? This lady's voice did not sound like anyone he'd ever met. Did she mean herself? Why was she here? Was she here to help him? Or was this another trick? All these thoughts swiftly flitted through his mind, before a wry little smile came onto his face, though the lady had not entered and would not see it. "Well, I'm a bit tied up at the moment," He replied, with a glance up at his wrists, held over his head by shackles, "My schedule's a bit full, but I think I can rearrange a few things to make time for a visitor." He was joking, obviously, and assumed the lady would know that. "Especially if you've come from the king." He added, raising an eyebrow in curiosity, waiting for this visitor to actually enter.

No sooner had he finished saying this, than the light grew brighter as someone did enter the cell, bringing a torch in with them. But it was not the woman who had spoken, for this was a man. Hal's focus shifted toward him, at first worried that it might be the jailor coming to put a stop to the visit. But he saw immediately that it was not Farchon, nor anyone else from the castle. In fact, it was possibly the last person Hal had expected to see. Hal stared in amazement, then did a hard blink, and stared for a couple more seconds as his long-time friend spoke his name, almost as if he were uncertain and yet hopeful at the same time. Hal was starting to question whether he was truly awake. Could he be dreaming? This didn't seem possible. Last he'd heard, Macardil was in a dungeon as well... so how could he be here?

"Macardil..?" Hal uttered in surprise. It was absolutely him, Hal had no doubt about that. Though it had been years since he had seen his friend, there was no mistaking those vividly blue eyes, nor that voice. Though he didn't know how it was possible, he decided not to question it, and simply accept that something incredible was happening, whether it was a dream or real. Now, without any lingering doubt that this visit truly was from a friend, Hal dropped the pretense of being too weak to stand. Using the wrist chains to aid him, he pulled himself to his feet with only a bit of effort, having been working steadily over the past month, to rebuild his strength and to be able to shift between standing and sitting.

"I can always find time for you, my friend." He declared with a grin, overjoyed to see his friend, especially since this had to mean that help had come for him at last! He cast a glance around the cell before adding with mock seriousness, "Although I would like to lodge a complaint to someone about this office. Any objections if we move this visit outside for some fresh air? I hear there's a nice flower garden outside, somewhere." He glanced past Macardil toward the door, where the lady apparently waited. Since Macardil didn't have the keys in his hand, he guessed that the lady must have them. "The key to these.. rather uncomfortable cufflinks should be on that ring, if you'd be so kind, ma'am?" He called hopefully. "It's one of the smaller ones, and I believe it's next to the one that opened the door."


(For better a description of his shackle situation, refer to this post, and this one, for what he's been doing since)

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

The voice was his. He sounded... different. But it was definitely Hal. The joke was right up his alley, as well. A modicum of relief washed over Macardil. Even though he had been telling himself there was no way they could have broken him - hearing it settled something inside of him which Macardil had not quite realized had been in flux.

Two grown men stared at each other. Macardil watched as his longtime, closest friend, whom he had presumed dead for years, rose to his feet. His wrists and ankles were shackled. He looked dirty, and much too thin. Neglected. But more than anything else - Halberion Veranis looked absolutely, undoubtedly, unmistakably alive.

The grin on Hal's face, the joy in his voice - the second joke he was making in just as many minutes since the door to his cell was opened... Macardil's expression brightened and the broad smile on his face matched Halberion's. "Then, I needn't speak with your secretary?" he inquired, though he couldn't keep the emotion from his voice as he strode toward the other man and embraced him with one arm, making sure to keep the torch far enough from either of them not to pose a problem. It was still incredible to see Halberion - incredible to see, hear and feel his friend. His living, breathing friend. Belatedly, Macardil hoped the half-embrace had not hurt him. He let go, trying to assess his friend's condition. "The accommodations do seem lacking," he mumbled, more darkly now, as he turned partially,to look toward the door- and Ziranphel. Who had the keys.

Hopefully just in time, a sudden thread of panic gripped him. "Wait," he urged, stepping to the door himself. He did not want Ziranphel to be in the cell at the same time he was. If Aderic was not whom he claimed to be, after all - if Bays turned on them, after all - they could be locked in. "No risks," was the only explanation he gave her as he made eye contact and held out his hand for the keys. "You control this door. Agreed?"

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Meeting her husband's gaze as he paused, she held it steadily until he seemed to gather himself and turned to the door. The waft of air that came from the open door had Ziran breathing more shallowly as she listened to the strange voice offering snide humor from inside and Macardil stepped through the opening. She let out a quiet sigh of relief as they greeted one another with joyful recognition and Aderic briefly peeked past the door frame. It was good that the man had enough spirit to make quips after so long in darkness, and apparently sufficient strength to stand. That would make leaving again much easier than if they would need to carry him.

Keeping her thoughts and words to herself rather than replying verbally to Halberion’s quips, Ziran’s fingers tightened around the keys as she warned the other three back with a glance and suppressed the flash of frustration she felt. The man was clearly impatient to get out, and she couldn’t fault him for his manner when he didn’t know her and was under such stress. She wasn’t about to go in there, and cleared her throat slightly as she tried to decide whether to call Macardil back or toss him the keys. The scowl and then sudden concern with which Macardil turned to the door gave her pause, and she sucked in a tight breath when he stepped back across the cell and held out his hand for the keys. No risk. You control the door. Ziran met his gaze squarely for a beat before placing the keys in his hand. She hadn’t moved from before. “Of course.” It was the only reply she could give, and her voice was steady.

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

There was no hesitation in her face, no surprise. Almost as if he had said something ridiculously superfluous.

And perhaps it was. Of course it was.

Macardil smiled at her. It was a small smile, but it was genuine. His hand brushed hers before she could take away her hand, in a silent but meaningful gesture of gratitude.

Only a few heartbeats later, Macardil was in front of Halberion once more, offering the torch to his friend. So he could then look for the smaller key Hal had referenced. Once he'd found it, he glanced at his friend before starting on the wrist of the hand that was not holding the torch. Macardil figured he would start with the wrists, because they would have suffered the most stress. From being kept up... Halberion's wrists did not look well. Nothing about him looked well. Macardil bit back his anger as he gritted his teeth. "Can you walk?" he asked quietly as he unshackled Hal's second wrist. Only his friend would be able to hear him. Lowering himself into a crouch, he started on the shackles around his ankles.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Lord Halberion Veranis

The way his friend's expression brightened, upon hearing Hal's words, made him smile a little. Obviously, this was far from the sort of situation most people would think suitable for joking about, but it was better than sitting around being miserable and depressed. It was a way to ensure that he kept himself.. himself. Besides, half of his mind still kept expecting to wake up any moment and find that it was all just a dream, and that no one had come to rescue him after all.

At the question about a secretary, Hal gave an amused little half-smile. "You never need any appointment." He assured him. "Besides, do you know how hard it is to get any help around here? Haven't had a secretary in years."

When Macardil put his arm around him, Hal knew for sure that this was no dream. Any doubt that it was all in his mind, drawing upon his own wishful thinking, was erased the moment he felt his friend's embrace. If his own arms had been free, he would have wrapped them around him in return. Instead, he could only stand there, trying to wrap his mind around the fact that Macardil was actually, truly here. And that Hal was about to finally be liberated from this misery hole. He swallowed, trying to push down the lump trying to fill his throat, as he felt a sudden flood of emotion threatening to overwhelm him.

While Macardil hurried over to the door, Hal took the moment to try and compose himself again, and in the meanwhile, he listened to what his friend was saying to the other person. An eyebrow raised slightly in curiosity. Control the door, no risks.. was there someone there they didn't trust? Or had they somehow sneaked into the castle and gotten down here, and now feared discovery? He was interested in learning more, but of course, the first thing he was interested in, was getting free.

By the time Macardil returned with the keys, Hal had managed to get a hold of his emotions again. He held the torch and waited with apparent patience, while Macardil sought for the key. It wasn't too difficult to locate, thankfully, and he sighed in relief as the first cuff fell against the wall. He shifted the torch to that hand, and gave a faint smile at the question. Could he walk? That, of course, had been the whole point of keeping him chained; to keep him from being able to do such things as walk, which led to things like attacking those who kept him prisoner.

"We'll find out soon, won't we?" He answered with a faint smile, which had a hint of forcedness about it. "A month ago, I couldn't stand." He informed Macardil, just as quietly, with a more serious tone, with a little nod to indicate the chair that had held him strapped down, before Ric's visit. "Since I was moved to this wall, I've been able to practice up and down movement, but... not forward motion." He explained. The lump was starting to swell up in his throat again as he watched one shackle drop, then the other, until he was able to move freely at last.

The first thing Hal did once all four limbs were freed, and once Macardil had stood up again, was to put his arm around his friend in return, while holding the torch carefully away. "I can't tell you how good it is to see you, Macardil." He said quietly with emotion thick in his voice. He drew a slow breath in, then smiled. "Let's go find that garden then, shall we?" He was only half-serious about locating a garden, but anywhere outside would be wonderful after this.

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

'A month ago, I couldn't stand.' Macardil swallowed back the shock at hearing those words. He couldn't imagine Halberion Veranis not being able to do something as simple as standing. The man had taught him so much about the human body - fighting with it, and fighting against it. That such a man would be rendered so weak...

Hal's arm around him made Macardil close his eyes with a small, brief smile. "Yes," he agreed. "Outside." Wordlessly, Macardil stepped in beside Halberion, on the far side of the torch of course, and put his arm around his friend to offer support. He could lean on him as much as he needed. Or wished. There was no shame between them. Macardil would try and make it look like Hal needed as little help as possible.

"We can take a closer look at you, later," he told his friend while passing Ziran and making eye contact with her. "The lady is quite skilled, not only with that bow she carries, but at healing as well. Not to mention that she can be trusted, without question." The priority, however, was obviously to get Halberion out of here. "I've clothes with me that you can change into, once we're away from this castle. An extra pair of boots, as well," he added, remembering they were more or less the same size. The clothes would be... big, though. He was so thin.

"Farchon," Macardil addressed the jailor, more coldly than before, once they had fully stepped into the hallway. "Take us to your other prisoner. I don't want anyone else in here. If I'd have had any beforehand, I've now lost all faith in how Castle Ansellidus treats its prisoners."

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Ziran’s faint smile echoed Macardil’s when he brushed her hand in that manner, although the lines around her eyes remained serious as she watched him return to unlock and remove the chains from his friend’s limbs. Helping Halberion seemed to be grounding him by giving him something tangible to do, and her expression relaxed slightly when the two of them managed to walk forward with Macardil steadying and supporting Hal at his side. While Hal was weakened, she could see in his frame the battered echo of the warrior Macardil had told her about from years past.

Stepping back from the door so that they could pass through and precede her back along the passageway, she tilted her head at Aderic and Bays in a gesture with a lift of her chin that plainly meant they should move back to make room and lead the way. Returning her attention to the two emerging from the cell, she met Macardil’s gaze briefly as he spoke to Halberion, and she gave him a slight nod in agreement at the indirect request. It was nice to hear his words of praise on her behalf, and it was quite sufficient as an introduction for the time being. After Macardil addressed Farchon, Ziran spoke quietly. “Go ahead. I will take up rear guard.” The sooner they returned to the cold winter sunlight the better. One more stop to make down here.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

|
Lord Halberion Veranis & Aderic
with Sergeant Bays and Jailor Farchon
Castle Ansellidus - Dungeon
Late Dec

While Lord Himhathol was in the cell, Ric kept an eye on Farchon, as well as subtly keeping an eye on Bays, just in case. He didn't think, by this point, that he was going to turn on them, but he also wasn't willing to take any chances. And while he waited, he began thinking of how chilly it felt down here. Earlier, when he had put on the guard's uniform, he'd decided to put away the cloak he'd had when he left his chambers. But he had stuffed it into his sack of things, so he would have it later. Now, he took a moment to take the garment out of the bag which he had been carrying since retrieving it at the gate. He didn't put it on, however, and simply draped it over one arm. Waiting.

Hal was grateful for the support to help him, for he had not been able to practice taking any steps since the visit from Ric, about a month ago. While he had done plenty of things to work on rebuilding his muscles, he knew that he would have a long road of recovery before he was anywhere close to where he had been, before all of this. While frustrating, he tried not to think about it. Today was a wonderful day, because he was finally becoming free from this nightmare, and he only wanted to focus on the positive things now.

He nodded faintly at Macardil's words as they exited the cell. Having something for his feet would be good. Some new clothing, as well... if it wasn't for the fact he wanted to get as far away from this castle as he could, as quick as he could, he would've asked to clean up right away. But he didn't want to linger any longer than he had to. Seeing the lady to whom the voice belonged, Hal observed the bow that Macardil had mentioned. He gave a little dip of his head to her. "I thought I might be imagining your voice, or that it was some sort of trick, when I heard you speak earlier, ma'am." He admitted to her with a faint smile.

Farchon shifted uncomfortably when addressed, nodding at the instructions to take them to the other prisoner. "Please, I have only followed Lord Ansellidus's instructions." He mumbled, looking unhappy.

As Macardil spoke then to Farchon, Hal scoffed. "If I hear you call that imposter a Lord, one more time.." He was saying as he turned to see who else was there. Then he froze when he saw the youngest member of the group. He stared at Ric for a moment, tensed, unsure which of the two this might be.

Ric had kept back, not wanting to alarm the man, but when he saw that Hal had taken notice of him, he stepped forward tentatively and held out the cloak he had retrieved from his bag. "Sir," He said softly as he offered it to him. "I think you could use this more than myself." He added, a little awkward.

Hal gave him a long, hard look before he relaxed slightly, taking the cloak with a slow nod. "You did that once before," He commented, though still not entirely certain he was talking to the same brother.

"Yes, sir." Ric nodded slightly. "I'm glad to see you are looking better than you did, then." He added.

Hal nodded slowly and put the cloak around himself. "Thank you." He wanted to be certain of which brother this was with them, but at the moment he couldn't think of any definite way of knowing. He decided it wasn't entirely urgent, if Macardil and the lady had trusted him enough to come this far. More questions could be asked later.


Once it was decided in what order the group would be arranged, the journey back began. As Farchon led them toward the cell where he had put the other prisoner, Bays kept a grip on his arm, while Ric stayed close. He glanced back periodically to check whether they needed to slow down, as he assumed Lord Veranis would tire quickly and need to rest. A couple of times, he nudged Bays to indicate that he should wait a moment, but eventually, they neared the end of the dungeon hallways. Farchon pointed out a cell, not far from where they had encountered him. "The lady is here." He said, looking toward Macardil, since he had the key. "You'll find her quite well, except for her emotional state, perhaps." He added, as if in his defense.

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Halberion beat Macardil to any kind of response, after the jailor said he had only been following orders. Macardil held his tongue at Hal's retort, and then when he felt his friend stiffen at seeing Aderic. The latter offered Hal a cloak, which brought a small smile to Macardil's face. When their brief exchange was finished and they started moving again, Macardil recognized they were doubling back - which made sense.
"He told me a few things only you could have told him," Macardil said quietly to Halberion, so he would be the only one to hear the actual words. "About my visit to your family when Alyssa had just been born. That left no doubt that you were truly here." The rest of it all - that could wait, he supposed. Until they had left this place, at the very least.

Once they halted at one of the cells, Macardil frowned at Farchon. "If he opens the door," he began, nodding at Aderic, "will the lady panic?" It was both a way to inquire as to why the lady was here in the first place, as well as a way to find out whether Aderic should stay back a bit at least, just like he had done with Halberion. Before Farchon could reply, though, Macardil sighed and partially turned toward Ziranphel. "Perhaps you should open the door, Ziran." He held out the keys to her. For he was loathe indeed to leave Halberion's side.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

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Lord Halberion Veranis & Aderic
with Sergeant Bays and Jailor Farchon
Castle Ansellidus - Dungeon
Late Dec

Hearing Macardil's words, Hal gave a small nod, glad to hear that. In fact, he had been about to ask for some sort of information like that, to try and learn how that young man had come to be with them. At least it seemed very likely that this was the brother whom Alyssa had trusted. And whom Hal had, at least at the moment, decided to trust, a month ago. The only way that the other twin could have known that information, was if the one Hal had told it to, had told it back to him. And if he had been telling the truth about his brother imprisoning him, then Hal doubted he would have shared such information with him.

At the door to the other cell, Farchon looked at Macardil upon his question, then glanced at Ric, and shook his head as he turned back to Macardil. "Afraid? No, I don't believe so." He answered. "In fact, she has been asking for Lord.." He paused with a glance at Hal, who was giving him a frown. "Um, for Ansellidus, but he has not been available." He shrugged. "She has only been here a few days, really, and I've not known what to do with her, as the.. as Ansellidus, has not been here in months." He explained, somewhat puzzled.

"Does it not seem odd to you, that you would imprison the lady without even knowing why?" Ric mentioned curiously. "I mean, without my brother even being here?"

"As I said, the guards brought her to me and said to hold onto her until further notice." Farchon frowned.

"What guards?" Bays demanded, frowning. "I've heard nothing about this."

Farchon paused, glancing at him before giving a little sigh. "It was Hankins and a couple of others who brought her. Said she had been caught trying to 'infiltrate' the castle," He said with a little shake of his head. "The lady says that she works here, and keeps asking to see the lord of the castle to clear up the misunderstanding."

Hal was frowning as he listened in silence to all of this. He was able to stand well enough without leaning on Macardil, thanks to his exercises during the past few weeks, but he was growing tired, not being accustomed to walking yet. He noted the name that he heard Macardil use to address their archer companion, and filed it away for in case he should need to use it. While waiting for her to open the door, he turned to Macardil and spoke very quietly, so he should be the only one to hear. "I wouldn't be surprised if the imposter left orders about this."

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Returning Halberion’s slight nod silently, Ziran smiled briefly in reply. She saw the hesitation despite the dark, but it didn’t take long after Aderic offered a cloak for them to resume their slow journey back down the dark passageway. She didn’t bother closing the cell door as she stepped away from the frame. It was no longer needed, and it felt right to leave it open.

Dim light was visible ahead when they halted again near a door not far from the entrance and Farchon indicated that the lady prisoner was within and quite well besides her emotional state, as she had only been there a short while. Ziran’s brows drew together as she wondered again who that might be while she listened to the discussion and her gaze bounced between the figures of the men ahead of her as they debated before the door. Who would have cause to be an intruder and yet seek out the Lord of the castle? A friend of their absent host or one who did not know who he was in truth?

Having noted their slow steps and the support Macardil had still been giving his friend before they halted, Ziran was about to offer assistance when he sighed and turned partially back toward her to hold out the keys and suggest that she open the door. “Okay.” Her quiet agreement was swift. Stepping forward without hesitation, she took the proffered keys with one hand and reached up to curl her fingers around his upper arm with the other as she slid past the two men in the narrow hall while attempting not to drag her weapons along the stone, letting go again with a brief trailing touch once she was clear. She kept her ears open to the conversation as she moved to the door and worked to find the correct key, but didn’t let it distract her movements.

It only took a few more tries before the lock snicked open and she could move the bar before swinging the door open. She spoke clearly into the darkness that met her. “Greetings. I am Cúner Karis Ziranphel of the King’s Rangers. It is time to bring you into the light.” Glancing over her shoulder at the men, she turned to Aderic instead of Hal for light, the light of the flame falling clearly on her face and visible to whomever was in the cell. “Please hand me the torch or accompany me inside, Aderic.” While she would like to control the light, not holding it would give her more freedom of movement.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Aderic
Castle Ansellidus - Dungeon
Late Dec

The lady inside the cell was sitting huddled on a cot, looking as if she had been crying. Though distraught, she looked as if she had been fed well enough, and she was free to move around her cell, at least. She stood immediately when the door opened, eyes wide with wonder at what was going on. When she heard the ranger announce herself, she was astonished and stood still for a moment while the ranger turned to speak to someone else.

Having stood back to keep out of the way, Ric was a little surprised when Lady Himhathol asked him to either hand her the torch or come into the cell with her. He hesitated, feeling reluctant to go into the cell, but then told himself that he shouldn't mistrust them. They had not deceived him so far, so he gave a little nod, then stepped in and held the torch high to illuminate the room.

As the light came into the cell, her amazement gave way to relief. "Lord Ansellidus!" She exclaimed softly. She curtsied immediately. "Please, I have been trying to tell them that I-" She began saying, before being corrected.

"No," Ric told her, trying to explain before she went any further. "I am not.. the man you know as Lord Ansellidus. I am only his brother."

She paused, briefly confused before she remembered the brother. "Ah... Sir Aderic, wasn't it?" She was visibly and audibly disappointed that it was not her employer whom she believed could clear up this misunderstanding, but then she turned to Karis. "Am I.. free to leave?" She asked, hopeful, yet also surprised, hardly able to believe it.

Nodding in answer to her first question, Ric let Karis answer the second. But he did notice that this woman seemed familiar somehow. "I have seen you before," Ric mentioned, frowning as he tried to place where he had seen this lady.

"Yes, sir," She answered, dabbing her apron at her cheeks to dry them. "I am.. or was..? A dressmaker for Lady Ansellidus." She frowned, unsure whether she still had her place or not. "I.. I have heard the lady speak of you. And we met once, briefly." She explained, before turning to Karis. "Please, can someone explain to these guards that I work here?"

Ric hastily thought back in his memory. He nodded then, recalling one of the times he had come to visit.. it must've been over a year ago, he thought. He had come to see if Mar was around, but he had not been there. So, as usual in a case like that, he had visited with Alyssa, and he recalled that on that occasion, she had been sitting and sewing with a lady. That was when he had met her... what was her name? He searched his memory before tentatively asking, "Ms. Taendis, wasn't it?"

She smiled weakly and nodded. "Yes.. yes, that is my name." She was a little surprised that he had remembered her name after that one brief meeting, in fact, for she doubted that Lord Ansellidus would have, although she was sure he would recognize her that she was employed by him.

"How is it you came to be in here, Ms. Taendis?" Ric wondered, a little puzzled as he gestured to invite her to leave the cell.

She was glad to exit the cell and needed no further invitation. "Several months ago, I was abducted, if you can believe it, by these horrible, crude men. They took me away in a ship, and I.." She hesitated, with a fearful look in her eyes. "I ended up in some awful market.. place.. they put me up for sale, like I was no better than livestock," She sniffled and looked close to tears again. "Then, after some kind person helped me get away.. and when I finally managed to get back here, the guards throw me in the dungeon and say that I don't belong here!" She sniffled again and wiped at her eyes again. "I don't understand what's going on, but I've been asking to see the lord, and plead my case, but they keep telling me he isn't available, and I haven't been able to get anyone to listen, and.. I just don't know what to do..."

"He isn't available." Ric confirmed quietly as everyone gathered in the hallway outside the cell. "He has not been here in months." He explained. He had his own suspicions about the story, but he didn't mention what he was thinking.

Taendis glanced uncertainly around at the various men, her gaze lingering on Farchon with a frown before turning back to Karis. "Thank you, Ms ranger... I don't know how you found out about my situation, but thank you."

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Ziran heard the rustle of clothing in the cell, but it was dark within since the light was behind her. After Aderic’s brief nod he preceded her into the cell with the torch to reveal a woman standing by a cot unchained, and who immediately curtsied in recognition. While his identity was being cleared up, Ziran looked the woman over, noticing the tear tracks that caught the light and the apron that she wore that seemed to denote a working woman’s status. She found it curious to hear the disappointment in the woman’s voice even with her eagerness to leave the cell. “You are free to come with us, yes.” Ziran confirmed quietly in answer to the woman’s question to her before Aderic interjected that he knew the woman or had seen her before.

Her brows drew together as she listened to the woman’s claim to being the dressmaker to Alyssa but then needing to tell the guards that she worked here. Something wasn’t adding up. She didn’t need to ask any questions yet, as Aderic continued the conversation, drawing further information from the woman as he ushered her out of the cell. After a brief glance around before the light disappeared, Ziran followed to stand in the doorway once more as she listened. Taendis had found herself abducted into slavery, escaped with aid, and returned to be imprisoned. Knowing that there were Umbarians in the employ of the absent lord had Ziran wondering that the woman had not been suspicious about how and why she was abducted from the castle. When the woman spoke her thanks, Ziran tilted her chin in a nod, deciding to share only part of their reasons for being there. “You are welcome. Farchon mentioned your presence when we came to search the dungeon and directed us to you.” She paused briefly. “We should proceed outside, but I do have one question. Were you with Lady Alyssa when you were abducted, or alone?” She was quite ready to return to the sunlight, even if it was dimmed by clouds, but the woman was more likely to have a clue about Alyssa’s whereabouts than her father.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

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Lord Halberion Veranis, Aderic, & Taendis
with Sergeant Bays and Jailor Farchon
Castle Ansellidus - Dungeon
Late Dec

Her gaze flicked briefly to the jailor before returning to Karis, surprised. But she was really just glad to be out of there, and told that she was free to leave. She was all for going outside now, but the lady ranger's question made her pause. "No, I was alone." She answered, shaking her head. "I believe Lady Alyssa went on a trip or something, sometime before that occurred," She added, thinking back. "I didn't hear very much about it, only that she had gone. After a time, I heard that the Midwinter ball was to be a masquerade, and I kept expecting to be informed that I should make a new dress for the lady." She frowned. "I kept checking back at the castle to find out whether she had returned, but she had not, last time I checked." She glanced around, unsure why that question had been asked, and continued, "Then I was walking home.. I live in the village below.. and I was going along where the path runs beside the river for a bit, when all of the sudden, these horrible men grabbed me and dragged me onto their boat.." She wrapped her arms around herself, looking near to tears again.

Ric listened quietly with a growing frown. After that, he tentatively spoke up again, "I hate to say this, ma'am," He sighed, "But I suspect you are rather fortunate that my brother has not returned." He informed her quietly. "The more I learn of him, of his.. doings, and of other things going on at this castle..." He looked down at the ground, recalling certain things he had seen here, which he did not want to talk about. "...the more I want to find him and stop him from doing anything else." He concluded, softly.

Hal had kept quiet throughout all of this, but he was listening intently, and frowning slightly as well. "Quite right." He agreed with Ric, finally ventured to speak. "Ms. Taendis," He added, when he saw her give first Ric, then him, a puzzled look. "I don't want to upset you, but... I wouldn't really be a bit surprised if that man you call 'lord' was the one who gave the order to have you sent off to that... place. Umbar, I would guess." He explained, as her eyes widened in shock at that idea. "He's certainly done far worse things to others." He added with a clenched jaw. He didn't want to get into any of that right now, though. "Let's get out of here?" He asked then, looking at Macardil with imploring eyes. "As much as I want to know where my daughter is and if she is safe, I believe these questions can wait a little while." He had a lot more questions he wanted to ask, in fact, but he had been holding off on those until the right time.

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Halberion's comment about not being surprised that Ansellidus would have left orders about the lady, made Macardil frown. It wasn't unfathomable that a lord would leave orders to imprison anyone trying to get into the castle without permission. And despite Aderic questioning Farchon's actions, Macardil couldn't really blame Farchon for putting someone in the cell after the guards had delivered them to him, with instructions to hold her, with whatever plausible reason. "The guards have their jobs," he told Aderic quietly. "And the jailor has his. They are supposed to operate on mutual trust, so I cannot fault Farchon for not interrogating the guards who brought her in. It's the fact the Sergeant knows nothing about it which is out of the ordinary. The other guards should have informed him the very same day." Lord Himhathol did glance at Farchon, then. "If you had been in my employ, I would not have expected you to question the guards when they brought the lady in. I would, however, have expected you to reach out to the highest ranking officer in my absence, if the prisoner had been asking you such things. To report her questions, at the very least." That was where Farchon had erred, in Macardil's opinion.

Ziran brushed past him then, hardly making contact besides her hand around his arm as she moved past him and Halberion. Macardil recognized the gesture she was offering, and watched with interest as she opened the door - and how she greeted the lady, offering her freedom from the cell. Even though they knew nothing about her,really.

Yet, they had come to learn a thing or two about the lord of the castle, and the guards who had brought her in. Based on that - Macardil was far more comfortable with freeing this woman, instead of leaving her in here, for Manwë knew how long.

The information that spilled out of the lady, Taendis, made Macardil blink. His head turned a little to look at Hal. Would he know more about this? Aderic could apparently confirm Taendis' story, which made the fact the guards put her in here rather difficult to believe! He was wondering why they would do such a thing, but at Ziranphel's reminder that they should leave the castle, Macardil refocused on how they were, in fact, in enemy territory. At least, that was how he was looking at the castle at present.

He did not quite understood Ziranphel's motivations for asking Taendis whether she had been alone or with Alyssa, not right away, but after a moment he managed to start guessing at the options. Suddenly, a fear gripped him. If Alyssa had disappeared sooner... had she also been taken to Umbar? Had she also been... taken to a market? Macardil glanced at Halberion, concerned his friend might be worrying about the very same thing.
He considered it a mercy when Hal's words made it clear his friend was not yet considering any such thing. Instead of commenting, Macardil simply nodded his agreement, and gestured ahead of them. "Outside," he made his demand clear enough, his throat tight. He knew he could trust Ziranphel with taking the lead as far as Ms Taendis was concerned, and he felt no need to micromanage anything.

It was another mercy that they encountered no opposition on their back back out of the castle. Macardil found himself in a very strange mood.
On the one hand, he was alated to have found his friend alive. Absolutely relieved and thankful and marvelling at the fact that Halberion still drew breath. Yes, he was emaciated. Yes, he was weakened. They could work on that, however. You could not bring a man back from the dead.
On the other hand, too many concerns were welling up in his chest. Too many jumbled thoughts were clouding his mind - and it felt like they were preventing him from thinking straight.

When they stepped out into the light of the courtyard, Macardil immediately started guiding Halberion toward the stables. And the wagon. The coachman should be waiting for them...

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Ziran was glad to hear that Alyssa had left prior to the woman’s abduction, but she was perplexed both by Alyssa’s continued absence and the short amount of time that it had taken for Taendis to be abducted, taken to Umbar, freed, and returned in time to be in the dungeons a while already. She was still mulling that over when first Aderic and then Hal clarified to the woman their well-founded concerns about “Ansellidus’s” involvement in her abduction, and then Hal gave a plea to Macardil about leaving.

When Macardil concurred to head outside, Ziran nodded assent and placed her hand gently on Taendis’ shoulder briefly with a quiet murmur. “Let’s head back outside and get some air. No need to stay in the dark any longer.” Having a clear memory for directions was a benefit in this situation, and she moved ahead to walk just behind Aderic as they returned to the halls where light filtered in more easily, and then stepped ahead to take the lead, listening intently for any opposition.

As they made their return journey to the courtyard, she mulled over their situation in the back of her mind. It was tempting to make a break for it back to the closest village that was Taendis’ home, or even back to the inn they had stayed in overnight, leaving their opponents and the castle to be reclaimed by the occupants. That would allow them to not risk dealing with the rest of the guards, but they were already in the castle now and had that advantage despite being fewer in number than the small garrison. There was a risk to confronting them now, but just as great a risk to go and return with force to a castle that was expecting attack and could hold the gates against them…with known foreign enemies inside. She paused and stepped to the side when they broke out into the open sunlight, letting her eyes adjust and scanning the area as Macardil passed her and headed for the stables with Halberion at his side. Unslinging her bow once more, she watched as each one passed, checking that they had all stayed together, before following toward the stables, scanning the courtyard as she walked. It placed her both in a position to defend them and keep an eye on the group.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

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Lord Halberion Veranis, Aderic, & Taendis
with Sergeant Bays and Jailor Farchon
Castle Ansellidus - Dungeon
Late Dec

Taendis smiled faintly at the gentle touch on her shoulder, and nodded in agreement to the plan of getting outside. "I know I've only been in there a couple of days, but I was starting to think I might be stuck in there forever." She said with a little sniffle.

Ric frowned slightly at Macardil's comments concerning Farchon and the guard, but said nothing. He was thinking about that, trying to apply his own guard experience to this situation. When they arrested someone for a crime, they were questioned, evidence inspected, witnesses questioned, and so forth, before determining whether there was sufficient cause to send them to a cell to await their trial. Having been in the position of a lieutenant, he could understand expecting those under him to follow his orders without questioning them, so he did understand that part of it. Still, he didn't like this entire situation. He was just as eager as the others to get out of there.

Farchon frowned as the lord spoke to him, ending with what he thought he'd failed to do. "But I did." He protested. "I was informed that Drornan was the highest-ranking officer in the lord's absence. And I did tell him."

"Drornan," Bays scoffed, frowning as the group walked. "He thinks he's in charge, but-"

"You said yourself that his group listens to him, rather than you." Ric reminded him quietly. He looked at Farchon. "Yet, you know that Bays is a sergeant." He mentioned.

"I was told that Drornan had been made captain of the guard." Farchon explained, confused. "If that is not true, then.. why would they say so?"

Bays frowned as he considered that. "I've not heard about any promotions. I think I would've heard about that, at least." Either Drornan had lied to raise his rank, or.. what? He couldn't have been promoted by the lord, since he had been away for months. "They've not been telling me a lot of things, but I surely would have heard if there was another who outranked me..."

"My guess," Hal mentioned in a little sigh as he concentrated on walking without having to rely too heavily on Macardil's support, "whoever this Drornan fellow is, he's probably one of the ex-corsair crew, from Umbar. That's pretty much how they do things, isn't it? And, it sounds to me as if they were... well... planning to get rid of you. Probably soon." He glanced at Bays, who looked alarmed by that notion, and he fell silent for a while.

Ric glanced at Bays. That was one of the things he had thought about, earlier. Then he looked at Hal, curious as he caught something he'd said. "How do you know there are Umbarians here?" He wondered, since he had not been there when the rest of them made that realization. "And.. ex-corsair crew? What?"

Hal glanced at him with a raised eyebrow. "I've been here a long time. I know about plenty of things." He wasn't willing to speak openly about many of those things with some of these people around. Macardil, of course, he trusted without question. And Macardil had vouched for the ranger lady, so he would trust that he could speak freely in her hearing as well. But as for the others... he would prefer to keep quiet about many things, for now.


As they ventured out of the windowless dungeon hallways, it was nice to see that daylight still filtered in through windows in the corridors of the rest of the castle. Most of the windows were located in the rooms, which had their doors closed. But there were a few windows along the hallway. As they passed the first one of these, Hal stopped briefly just to admire the light, before going onward.

Ric was somewhat glad, once they got into the main part of the castle, and Ranger Karis took the lead, which let him fall back a few steps and not have to worry about whether he got them all lost in there. Soon, the front entrance was there, and then they were back out in the front courtyard. He silently let out a breath of relief, and was glad to see that they were heading for the stable.

Passing into the courtyard, Hal blinked and let his eyes close halfway to block out some of the brightness. The light through the windows had been wonderful to see after so many years in the dungeon, yet it was much brighter after walking out into it. He let Macardil guide him, blindly trusting his friend. Literally. A moment later he felt as if he could open his eyes fully again, and looked around in gladness to be seeing the outside world again, at last. They were heading toward the stable. Despite knowing that this was all too real to be a dream, it almost felt unreal that he was so close to getting out of this horrible place at last.

Still keeping a solid grip on Farchon, Bays exited the castle along with the others, and approached Macardil and Halberion. "My lord, what shall I do with him?" He asked Macardil, unsure whether the man was a prisoner or not. "Should I put him with the others, or..?" He was not actually sure what other options there might be. "And what of the others whom we have not captured?" He added, wondering about those who were currently still asleep. Hopefully.

Meanwhile, Taendis had stayed somewhat close to Karis throughout the walk through the castle, her being the only other woman in the group. The whole way, she kept looking around in bafflement at how empty the halls were. "Where is everyone?" She wondered aloud, after a while. As they stepped outside, she wrapped her arms around herself and hugged her shawl close around her shoulders, glad that it hadn't been taken when she was locked up. "This place is so.. empty. It was never like that, before." She found this very strange. "Or at least, it wasn't, a few months ago. Before I was taken away." She added, frowning.

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Taendis’ comment about the emptiness of the courtyard echoed Ziran’s thoughts from earlier, but were of more import considering her familiarity with the castle and the staff that should rightly be filling the place with sound and activity. It was almost silent rather than filled with the bustle of a working castle. Ziran looked over at the woman before scanning the courtyard once again as they followed the men toward the stables. “Shouldn’t there be kitchen staff and workers in the halls? Or do the guards do that work themselves?” She found the idea highly unlikely, but it was a slim possibility if they were short staffed.

A thought prodded at her about the length of time they could expect such peace, and she quietly called ahead. “Sergeant Bays, how close are we to when the next guard shift wakes to eat and prepare for the transfer of responsibility?” Could they go to the village and recruit some to assist, or did they need to deal with the guards sooner rather than later? She would feel much more comfortable knowing how to plan.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

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Lord Halberion Veranis, Aderic, & Taendis
with Sergeant Bays and Jailor Farchon
Castle Ansellidus - front courtyard, by the stables
Late Dec

Taendis gave a slow nod. "There should be, yes. There were, last time I was here. Although there were fewer than there used to be, as I recall, at that time. But, there were still a lot of servants here then." She looked troubled by this.

Upon hearing Karis' questions, Bays turned toward her. "It's a few more hours until shift change." He answered. "And, yes, there is some kitchen staff, but they are minimal, at this time. Just as the guards are short-staffed..." He sighed. "There's a cook, and one assistant, I think. I believe there's one maid left, and she only cleans the rooms currently needed," He explained, frowning.

"I did mention that people had been going missing, at least since I arrived in July," Ric spoke up quietly, reminding them of what he had told them when he first encountered them, earlier. "Merilda told me about it, before she, too, disappeared. And that must've been around August, I suppose." He added with a sad sigh. "I assumed these disappearances had been continuing, although I've had no news since I last saw her. No one else would speak to me at all."

"Disappearing.." Bays repeated, frowning. "I was told different stories about the people leaving; that some quit, others were fired, some had been sent on errands for the lord, that sort of thing..." He glanced at Taendis thoughtfully, recalling her story of what had happened to her. "Although there were undeniably several who have died from.. accidents." He added with a frown. He cleared his throat, preferring to move away from that topic. "I have been thinking about the situation with the remaining guards," He ventured to say. "Perhaps... I could go to the guard's quarters, and waken one man quietly, tell him that he's needed for some reason, and then lead him back to the group where he would then be outnumbered by all of you, far enough away from the others where he cannot waken them if he calls out?" He glanced at the others to see what they might think of this idea. "And do the same with the rest, one by one, I mean."

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

To be honest, Macardil did not care as much about the state of the castle. He realized that, perhaps he should. Yet, on the other hand - why? His best friend was here, with him. Alyssa was reported by all to be nowhere around. Aderic, if he was indeed the 'good brother', which everything suggested that he was, was with them. The only other prisoner was with them, as well. Everyone else who was still at the castle was either employed here and willing to stay despite the disappearances, or employed here and very aware of whatever was really going on. And the 'Lord Ansellidus' was nowhere nearby, either.

To Macardil, it seemed they needed to use that fact to get everyone out of there, who was already with them. He had no inclination to stay and risk getting overpowered. Nor to stay and take even more prisoners, which they would then need to... do something with.

He was no longer a ranger. He was no longer an officer. That had not been his choice. It had not been his wish. Nevertheless, it was his reality. For the first time since his life had been uprooted in such a profound way, he found it to be an outright gift.

"I do not wish to linger," he admitted to Ziranphel. "We have freed those who were being kept here against their will." He glanced at Bays. "As I understand it, the other guards are.. of Drornan's ilk?" By the Valar, he hoped so. Then he needn't worry about leaving them near ex-corsairs. For they were probably all ex-corsairs. "And the only others we would be leaving behind are the cook, the assistent, and a maid? All of whom the guards need, unless they all want to start doing that themselves. Which I doubt."

In the meanwhile, Macardil guided Halberion into the stables and asked the coachman to help retrieve some of Macardil's luggage, so he might find his friend some cleaner and - most of all - warmer - clothes. "Though I do see the option of taking those with us whom we have already locked in. So when the others wake, they do not know what has happened to the guards, the jailor and the prisoners. And so they are none the wiser that anyone beyond the castle was even involved - or how those who have disappeared... disappeared. Perhaps it will confound them. Perhaps it will vex them. Hopefully, it may do both," he surmised, after seating Halberion on a stable bench and as he started looking through his clothing. Macardil retrieved a whole set soon enough, along with a spare pair of boots.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

|
Lord Halberion Veranis & Aderic
with Sergeant Bays and Jailor Farchon
Castle Ansellidus - Stables, front courtyard
Late Dec

Hal had remained quiet so far, growing weary after so much walking. While he had been able to work on rebuilding some of his muscles over the past few weeks, he had not been able to do anything involving stamina, or cardio or anything of the sort. Walking required a lot of focus, but also took a lot of exertion, after so many years without any exercise of the sort. Something else he would have to work toward rebuilding, he noted. It was a bit of a relief to be seated on the bench, after what seemed like a lengthy walk.

At this point, however, he did speak up, quietly. "Leaving them to wonder sounds like a good plan." He agreed. He watched as Ric went further into the stable, checking each stall. The stable was also very quiet, Hal realized after a moment, but he focused on other matters at the moment, turning to Macardil. "From what I've gathered, that type of thing has been going on for a while, so that might leave them feeling quite troubled." He watched with a little smile of appreciation while Macardil dug out some clothing to loan him. "As far as I understand it, the castle's original guards have been gradually being replaced over the years." He mentioned. "Apparently, several of those who are currently here are from a band of unscrupulous mercenaries, who come from Northern lands, though they are of mixed nationalities. Alyssa told me that she had discovered some of them to be from Rhovanion, Rhun, Eregion, even Dunland, and other places like that. She also said most of them are just as bad as the corsair crew who came in later." He informed them. He had been keeping carefully-kept mental notes about all of these details, for a long time.

"As for them," He frowned, leaning his head back to rest against the wall behind the bench, sighing. "Apparently they served on a ship called the Spectre, before the captain realized they all looked too 'Gondorian' after some rangers infiltrated his ship, disguised as part of his crew." He gave a little smile. "I'd be interested in hearing that story in full, but alas, she could only tell me a little of what she overheard. Anyway, that fraud apparently offered jobs to these men. From what Alyssa was able to gather... their former captain has some sort of alliance with the Imposter, or at least, he has dealings with him or a relative of his, or something like that."


Bays, however, frowned as he was asked about the remaining guards, and mentally went over the list of those who were left. "There are still a couple of the guards who are Gondorian, who have been here since before.. his brother came along." He informed them, with a nod toward Ric, who was walking down the row of stalls. "I believe one of those men happens to be trapped in a broom closet, at the moment..." He recalled. "Most of those left, however, are Drornan's people, and those from Umbar." He concluded, confirming that much was correct about what Macardil had said.


Meanwhile, Ric was dismayed. Having checked through the whole stable, he had found that the only horses here were those that Lord and Lady Himhathol had brought along. As far as he could see, there were no servants currently employed to care for any horses, either. And while there could be horses out in a pasture somewhere, he didn't know where that would be. He supposed it made sense, that if there were no servants except for the utmost essential ones, that there would also be no one employed to care for horses, and therefore, no horses kept around here. And if Mar was off somewhere, he would probably have his horse with him. But where was Ric's horse? He had no idea where to look for her. But what concerned him more was that he did find his saddle and other gear in the tack room. But otherwise, there was no sign of Lady.

He returned to the others with a heavy heart, having heard most of what Macardil said, at least, because the place was so quiet. He paused, trying not to let his concern for his horse show too much as he put in his own two cents. "There is also the possibility that, if I could look around, maybe in the office Mar had been using, for instance, that there may be some sort of clues he left behind. Things that may lead me to finding where my brother is now." He mentioned quietly, hopefully. "I was in the office for a short while, about a month ago. There were a lot of papers and things like that, but I didn't get to look through everything, at that time. A great deal of the paperwork seemed to be concerning the mines run by the Ansellidus family, but there might be something else, which might indicate his current whereabouts. Perhaps a property sale receipt.. I thought I glimpsed something like that? Or.. I don't know." He sighed, feeling rather inadequate at this whole searching thing, yet unwilling to give up. "I would like for a chance to look more thoroughly, but I don't think that would be possible, with things as they stand."


Hal sat up slightly at that, thoughtful and intrigued by that bit of information. "Or, there could be some sort of clue that might lead to Alyssa's whereabouts," He mentioned, hopeful. "If he was smart, he wouldn't leave things like that lying around, but we can always hope he may have made a mistake that could be helpful to us." He looked at Macardil, then to the lady ranger, and back to Macardil, wondering what they'd decide to do. While he would like to get away from here, this did seem like the best time to overpower the few remaining 'guards' who opposed them, and if there was a chance they might gain some clues to lead them to Alyssa... wouldn't it be worth it?

He gave a small, wry smile to his friend. "I'd offer to help storm the castle, but, somehow, I get the feeling I'd be more of a hindrance than a help, at the moment." He sighed regretfully as he glanced down at his legs. He couldn't help wondering if he'd ever manage to regain his former fitness level. It was frustrating to be so weakened, and to have to basically start over, as if he were a baby learning to walk again. But at least, now, he was free. He would do his best to get back to the level he had been at, before his captivity, even if he never achieved it.

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn, @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Ziran frowned thoughtfully as Taendis, Bays, and Aderic replied to her questions. It was concerning to hear about the disappearances, although it fit with the woman’s mentions of her own captivity. Something was deeply wrong in this castle and with its “lord.” Tuning back in as Bays described his suggested means of incapacitating the guards one by one through subterfuge, Ziran blew out a quietly incredulous huff of air. On the surface it seemed like a good idea until one factored in the unpredictability of waking the men and the low likelihood of waking them one by one successfully. It was a recipe for disaster if it didn’t work perfectly.

She gave a brief shake of her head. “I’d rather not try that method alone. With our numbers it would make more sense to get the drop on them with our weapons and tie them up with the threat of an arrow through their gullet or an axe to their skulls if they make a fuss.” Falling silent as Macardil addressed her directly while closing the remaining distance to the stables, she heard his desire to quit the place immediately, and his arguments as to why they had no further responsibility here. It troubled her to consider both asking any of them to stay longer, and feeling like she would be abandoning her duty to leave an unresolved situation behind that would easily cost more Ranger lives later if not dealt with now. Surrendering the castle back to the Guards from Umbar struck a discordant note in her mind that refused to be silent. Ziran silently mulled over whether it would be feasible in the time they had to leave with their group now, round up volunteers in the town they had stayed the night, and return in time to deal with the guards before they could sufficiently bar the castle against them. While Macardil’s suggestion of vexing the guards with the disappearance of the others was a mildly amusing one, she wasn’t sure that was the right course of action. It dawned on her that he no longer felt responsible to the kingdom beyond ensuring the immediate safety of his friend. She, however, did still have responsibility even though this hadn’t been an official mission.

Listening to the others speak as she deliberated silently, Ziran was surprised to hear Halberion mention learning things from Alyssa. They had seen each other? Alyssa had known her father was imprisoned in her very castle? Even under duress she had held the facade. That astounded Ziran and further silenced her as she mulled over what she heard. Her brown eyes rested on each one in their small group in turn as she propped the tip of her bow on her boot. The hint of a smile touched her lips at Hal’s self-effacing joke about helping storm the castle, and nodded slightly before clearing her throat lightly to speak. “I understand the desire to leave, and part of me wants to depart immediately to seek lodging at a comfortable inn and leave this mess to others to deal with. Yet I agree that this is likely also our best chance to take control of the castle with minimal loss of life despite our low numbers. Having heard all the evidence thus far this day, I believe it would be in the King’s best interest, and the people of this fiefdom, to take the castle on behalf of the king before finding that Inn and the assistance of the local constabulary to take charge of the prisoners and guarding the castle until the King can determine the fate of its Lord.” Her gaze shifted to Macardil as she spoke. “That would allow those who wish to peruse the office for information afterwards, but is only possible if everyone agrees. The second best option is to leave and then I return with any troops I can gather at a later time while those who need to recover do so in comfort. Which shall it be, Hervenn?” Part of her heart bled for the choice before them and bid a wistful mental farewell to the idea of the relaxed trip they had planned, even knowing there was potential for difficulty. There was no salvaging that now. She would let him choose now that she had set forth her remaining options.

[Pele Alarion]

@Ercassie
Carpe Diem
Cadil with Nal, and the prisoner wagon

"Right," Cadil concluded when Nal strictly confirmed that the broach was definitely Cali's and that there had been an Umbarian. He did not like that combination, not at all. But there were things to be done first, apparently.

"If we jump out in the midst of Harlond, the people better not assume that we are escaping criminals," he said as he retrieve the dagger from his bag. He fastened the sheath to his belt to have his hands free long enough to move the bag so he could sit on it and cushion some of the effects of that bumpy ride along the road. Currently he did not mind sitting on his sandwiches and possibly making them look unappetizing, but at least his hands were steadier as he began chipping away at the wooden plank where the nearest pair of shackles was attached.

His efforts paid off and he managed to loosen the chains so that he could pull them out, though he did fall backwards as the chain came loose suddenly, and he lay for a while, his legs dangling over the bag.

"Success!" he said, though not so loudly that their guard would hear. "And suppose for you too?" Hearing the instructions, he scrambled to his feet, tucked the chains away in the bag among a set of spare clothes and then strapped the bag firmly onto his shoulders. "I'll try not to be too obvious of an escapee," he agreed, moving towards the door and peeking out at the street with some concern. There was no time to hesitate though, and he picked up courage along with the words: "Right. Here goes nothing," and half jumped, half fell out the door, landing on his hands and knees.

"Eh, not too shabby for a chubby traveller!" he exclaimed to any interested passers-by, straightened up, brushed the palms of his hands against his trousers and set off after the wagon in a determined step while trying to look as if he belonged among those on the street.

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

When Aderic said he would like to look through his brother's office, Macardil sighed mentally. He also wasn't sure why they were calling Amardir Ansellidus an imposter. Maybe he had been officially appointed by the former Lord? That did happen, sometimes. The paperwork might be in order. Should be in order. Or no one in Belfalas would have accepted his claim? Yet Macardil had not seen any papers, himself, of course. Perhaps... everyone simply assumed that 'someone' had? Was that even possible?

It was his friend's hopeful interjection that the man's office might give away something about Alyssa's whereabouts, however, that gave Macardil pause. That was true. And that would be worth.. taking a risk for. His blue eyes flicked to Halberion'sexpression, and noted the hopefulness there. After which he followed Halberion's gaze to Ziran. While Macardil kept his face thoughtful, and mostly neutral, as she spoke, he was surprised by her chosen approach. It was... startlingly direct. Then again... wasn't that what she had always shown him? That refreshing straightforwardness, though still combined with moments of preceeding quiet reflection?

Macardil's mouth lifted into a half-smile as he regarding her silent contemplation. Once she spoke, he knew she was right. He had nothing to counter her with. When she focused on him more specifically, his smile faded a little. If everyone agrees? Who needs to agree? She was the king's best-placed representative, when it came to deciding what should happen to one of the kingdom's castles. Surprised at the choice with which she suddenly presented him, Macardil had to take a beat. She was... leaving the choice up to him? Granted, she had given him two options which she could apparently both accept, and they were very much her options, not his... Regardless. He had not expected her to hand him such a decision at all. He knew where he stood now, in this regard. Had Ziran forgotten? Or was she still trying to determine how the dynamics between them worked, with her current rank, his former rank, their relationship as husband and wife, and his position as a Lord? Granted, that could all be confusing enough. Not that Macardil wished for that to be so.

Silence settled around them as his eyes lingered on hers. Considering. Debating. He did not wish to tell her all he was thinking - not in front of others. Not even in front of Hal. Most decidedly not in front of Bays, Aderic or the coachman. Instead, he tried to put himself in Ziranphel's shoes, and think about which approach she would really prefer. What was she not saying? What did she really wish to do? What would she have chosen, if he had made it clearer to her that he believed this was her call to make? Even if he did not like the results?

"We take the castle," he said quietly. "Before finding an inn." Straightforward. As she was.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

| |
Lord Halberion Veranis, Aderic & Taendis
with Sergeant Bays and Jailor Farchon
Castle Ansellidus - Stables, front courtyard
Late Dec

Bays nodded when the lady rejected his plan, presenting what she thought would be better. He personally disagreed, but it seemed as if her husband, Lord Himhathol, did not, since he decided that they would take the castle now, and it seemed that he had chosen to go with her plan. "I can show you where their sleeping chambers are." He offered. "I can't imagine any of them being up and about for a few hours yet, so we should be able to get the drop on them, at least."


Ric remained quiet, listening. He noted that she spoke of arrows and axes, but not swords. Which, he silently acknowledged, meant that she probably did not intend to have him or Bays get involved. Which he tried to feel understanding about. They didn't trust him, he knew that. Lord Himhathol had made that clear when he stopped Bays from giving him his sword back. He tried not to take it personally, although he did wonder if anyone would ever trust him for anything, ever again. When she spoke of feeling that it was in the King's best interest to deal with the castle now, and seek aid from the village after, it occurred to him to offer to get help from the village, but, again. No one would trust him to do that. He held back a sigh and struggled not to feel too frustrated about it. There was a second option mentioned as well, which would surely prove more dangerous to the lady. But it was decided when Lord Himhathol spoke at last, declaring that they would deal with the castle now. Ric nodded slightly, inwardly a little relieved by this. "I will help in whatever way you ask or require of me, lord and lady Himhathol." He declared in a quiet voice, with a small bow of his head.


Listening to the discussion and the options listed, Hal was debating telling them not to worry about him, that he'd be fine here in the stable. But he was severely distracted from that thought, suddenly, by the lady calling Macardil... Hervenn. Wait, what? Stunned, he gave her a closer look, surprised to hear this. When Ric then referred to her as Lady Himhathol, Hal couldn't help but turn to look at Macardil with undisguised surprise on his face, although he somehow managed not to break the silence while Macardil was apparently thinking. Once the other man had spoken his decision about what they would be doing, Hal gave a small nod. Even if he was in no condition to aid them, he was glad that they had chosen that course.

He turned to Macardil then. "Well... It seems we have more to talk about than I first thought." He remarked, wondering how much more he had missed out on. While he did feel it was the best choice, to deal with all of this stuff now while they had the advantage, and so that they could then look through any paperwork which might be left in the castle, Hal was also very much looking forward to being able to talk to Macardil and share news. Especially now that he understood that his friend had remarried! But it could certainly wait. He had a million questions, of course, but he knew better than to delay a mission simply to satisfy his curiosity. "Clearly, proper congratulations are in order, but we'll save that for when you get done with the castle." He smiled slightly. "Don't worry about me, I'll be fine here."

Taendis cleared her throat softly. "My lord, and lady," She spoke up, looking at them each in turn. "If you would like, perhaps I could take him to the village," She nodded to Hal, "and get him settled into the best inn there. Then I could speak to the local guards there and send them to your aid?"

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn @Rillewen

Karis Ziranphel, Lady Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Ziran hadn't quite realized her tension at his initial silence until she felt something that had been wound tight within her relax at Macardil’s choice. It had been important to know he was fully choosing the action rather than reluctant, especially because he had earlier expressed his preference to leave. While it was also important to have the others invested in the mission, she had heard some of their opinions already, and while they had largely proved trustworthy, her husband was the only one she fully trusted to have her back. She relaxed enough for a slight smile of acknowledgement to lift her lips, and she nodded in response. “Very well.”

She had noted Hal’s look of surprise and her eyes flicked to him now as he commented to Macardil that they had more to talk about than he had thought. Yes, there were many things they would want to catch up on from the intervening years, the wedding being only the most recent major change in her husband’s life. Taendis’ question made her tilt her head in thought a moment. “That isn’t a bad idea, Taendis. Whether you go alone with the coachman or Halberion travels with you, it would be a relief to have militia loyal to the king here to take custody of the prisoners and responsibility for the castle, as it would free us to return to Minas Tirith to report to his Majesty.” Ziran turned slightly to address Hal, dipping her chin slightly. “I will allow you the freedom to stay and wait in the stable for the result of our attempt to capture the guards if you wish to search the office later with us, or go with Taendis and ensure your freedom, and the likelihood of a bath and meal at the Inn before we return. You have a few moments to think about it.”

Shifting her weight, she addressed all of them, lifting her voice and taking on a moderate tone of command despite being on the quieter side. “Everyone should take a few moments to regroup and center yourselves. Stretch, get a drink of water, use the facilities if needed. There is a cup by the water pump, and we have some trail rations if you need energy. We will remove the prisoners from the carriage and put them in a stall so that they have some warmth, while freeing the carriage for use.”

Ziran paused briefly. She knew Macardil still had qualms about all they had gained in their party today besides Hal, but with being outnumbered, she wasn’t sure they could afford to turn away assistance. “Bays and Aleric, your assistance would be appreciated, and as you have proven your willingness to help thus far. I will need one or both of you to tie up and secure the guards if and when they capitulate. Until then, as a test of your honor, you may take weapons with you to help assert our strength of arms, but please, always ensure that no guard may take control of your weapons.”

She blew out a quiet breath. “When we are ready we should proceed to the barracks as silently as possible. After ascertaining whether they truly are asleep, I will take up overwatch with my bow from either the doorway or an angle in the room that allows good coverage of the room without blindspots. We will quietly remove weapons from within reach of guards. Then station around the room in a way that the threat is obvious and close enough that everyone feels the threat of an axe or sword, as well as the likelihood of an arrow if they resist violently. If they are wise, all will surrender willingly, even if there is great enmity there. Desire to live another day is a powerful force.”

She looked around at everyone to make sure it was clear enough. “We will adapt if anything changes, but we do have some advantages.” Lastly, her gaze flicked to Farchion. You can come along and help tie hands, or stay here tied up with the rest.” Her brown eyes were stern. “Any aid to alert them to our presence before we are ready will mean your life.” They all had a bit to think about as they prepared to reconvene in a few moments or go their separate ways.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Lord Halberion Veranis

& Taendis
Castle Ansellidus - Stables, front courtyard
Late Dec

Listening to Taendis' suggestion, Hal kept quiet as he thought about that, while watching her. He knew very little about her, only that she had been in the dungeon cell and apparently, as far as he could tell, it was by Mar's orders. He gave a little nod in reply to.. Macardil's wife.. when she told him he could think about it for a few minutes. He was still trying to get over the fact that Macardil had remarried, but that would have to be something to think about later. For now, he had to decide if he wanted to stick around and wait to see what happened, or go down to the village and get cleaned up. To be honest, he felt a bit torn about it. On the one hand, he wanted to get far, far away from this place as quickly as possible. But on the other hand, he wanted to be able to do something to help Macardil in what he was doing. And he wanted to get a look at any papers that might be in that office, for himself.

While she continued to address the others, Hal rested his head back against the wall, while his eyes rested on his friend. For the time being, he let himself relax, knowing he was not dreaming, and that he really was finally free from the dungeon. After a moment he let his gaze roam, trying to observe and get an idea about the dynamics going on here, and to assess the various people involved in this group.

After a bit, he turned his thoughts toward the decision that had been left to him. If he stayed here, he asked himself, what exactly could he do that would be useful? Nothing, right? He struggled to walk and had needed someone to help him, just to get out of the castle. And he had tired quickly, as he used his muscles in ways they had not been used in years. If he went back in, he would again need help, which would take away from that person (probably Macardil) being able to do what he needed to do.

Next, he asked himself what he could accomplish if he chose to go to the village. He could get cleaned up, for one thing. And that would be very nice. He could also help ensure that proper guards were summoned to help Macardil with the castle. He gave a tiny nod as he reached a decision, therefore. "I will go to the village," He declared quietly, once he'd taken the time to consider both options fully. "And, I'd appreciate some water, and perhaps a little something to eat, for the time being." He added, upon hearing there was a water pump and trail rations. He had been given his one meal a day, but that seemed like a long time ago, by now.


Taendis nodded, glad to be able to do something useful in this whole situation. And the other prisoner looked far worse off than she was. She wondered how long he had been in the dungeon, but she didn't ask. "It isn't very far to the village. I'll tell the innkeeper to ensure that you have all you ask for." She promised, speaking to Hal, then turned to Karis and Macardil. "I know most of the people in the village, and the guards there will be very interested in learning about what's been uncovered here, today." She said, frowning slightly. "I believe they'll hasten to your aid as soon as they hear about it."

She looked over at the castle, sighing with a shake of her head. "I still can't hardly believe all of this." The idea that the castle had been overrun with corsairs and mercenaries, and that lord Ansellidus was in league with their sort... she found it very confusing. She knew he could be very demanding and picky about sewing jobs he asked for, but as she only did work on occasion and didn't actually live in the castle, she had only ever seen Mar while he was acting the part of a charming nobleman, and so she found it a bit doubtful that he was actually behind her own abduction.

But she kept that thought to herself. "Is there any particular message you would like for me to relay?" She asked, thinking it would be best to find out what she ought to tell the guards. "Or would you like me to simply tell what I've seen and heard?" She certainly could tell a few things by now, and she'd been listening to all that the others were saying since she'd been released from that cell.

---

Aderic
with Sergeant Bays and Jailor Farchon

Ric was surprised to hear that they would be taking a few minutes to rest, eat, and drink before venturing this next step. And suddenly he realized how very long it had been since he had eaten. Because he had made his escape before they brought his meal for the day, he hadn't had anything since yesterday's meal, since for the last month, he had flat out refused to eat any meals unless Lord Veranis was also getting a meal. As far as he could tell, they had not lied about that, at least, since he looked better-fed than when he had last seen him.

"If.. there is enough," He ventured tentatively, "I would like a small portion as well, please." He wasn't sure how much there was, nor if the offer was even meant for him, but he would be better able to assist if he had a little bit to eat first.

He was further surprised, then, to hear that lady Himhathol would entrust him with a weapon, since Macardil had made it clear, earlier, that he did not. He was glad, however, that she didn't plan on trying to attempt this by herself, or only with herself and her husband. As she added the bit about not letting any guards take control of the weapon, he nodded. "Understood." He answered, as Bays nodded in agreement as well.

Listening as she outlined the plan, they each nodded in understanding. It seemed like a good plan, and ought to work well. Hopefully. Ric could think of a few ways it might go wrong, but he tried not to worry about that.

"Shall I get started on moving the prisoners into a stall, then?" Bays offered.

In a way, Ric was relieved to hear that Lord Veranis was willing to go to the village with Taendis, yet he was also just the slightest bit concerned, since she had said that she'd gotten snatched by corsairs while on her way there, from the castle. But she had likely been on foot at that time, he reminded himself. No one would know who was in the carriage, and therefore they surely would not be assaulted even if there were enemies lying in wait nearby. Which, he really hoped there weren't. But he had no idea what to expect.

When she even extended the opportunity to help to Farchon, who had remained quiet since leaving Taendis' cell, Ric glanced over at him, curious what he might choose to do, after that threat. Ric suspected, from what he had seen of her so far, that she absolutely meant what she said. But would the jailor take her threat seriously?


Farchon swallowed and gave a tiny nod to show that he understood. "I will help." He promised. "I apologize for my lapse in judgement, before. I was unaware of the whole situation." He shifted uncomfortably at the idea of being tied up, glancing toward the carriage curiously when he heard that they had prisoners in there. "I would like to make up for my mistake, earlier."


"Oh, what about Thinnion?" Ric asked, suddenly remembering him. "I know he was here earlier. He was walking down the corridor, and I hastily ducked into a room.." He paused and swallowed, suppressing a shudder as he remembered the particular room he had unfortunately chanced into. He paused to take a slow breath. "I don't know where he would be at this time. He is running this place, in my brother's absence." He explained. "The first time I escaped, I met him while trying to find a way out. He mistook me for Mar, and he took me to Mar's office, before he let drop that there was another prisoner." He glanced at Hal with a little nod. "Then he took me down there so I could see this prisoner, and that is how I first met Lord Veranis. But he and Farchon were apparently both already aware that I was not really Mar, and they tricked me back to the rooms I had escaped from, where I was locked up again.. until today."

He paused. "I want to believe that he isn't a bad person, and that he was only following the orders he had been left with. That is what he told me, and he apologized for having to lock me up again. But I do not know where he can be found, at this moment, nor to what lengths he will stick to his orders." With all of the goings on so far, the other man had briefly slipped his mind, but he thought it was important that they knew about this other variable, which could potentially mess up the plan.

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen

Lord Macardil Himhathol
Ansellidus estate in Lossarnach - Late December

Bays offer to show them where the sleeping chambers were, made Macardil nod. That would be necessary, of course. Aderic's offer to help in whatever way he could, made Macardil's thoughtful gaze linger on him a while, however. Now that they had Halberion with them, Macardil's inner turmoil had settled - to a degree - and he found he could think more clearly now their plan was beginning to shape itself. Halberion was alive. Halberion was safe. They needed to find Alyssa. Taking the castle and going through Ansellidus' office might help with that. And to take the castle, they needed to know whether they could trust Aderic. He needed to think it through, again, now his head was in clearer state. Thus, while Halberion was processing the presentation of the fact that Macardil had remarried, Macardil was processing something else entirely - and did not pick up on his friend's surprised looks.

He had figured earlier, based on what Arnyn had told him and based on the situation here at the castle, that there were two brothers. It was clear that the castle staff, at least, thought Aderic was not their Lord, even if the guards had first pretended him to be. No one could keep up a perfect charade like that.
Halberion had also trusted Aderic was not Amardir, as well, at some point. Or he never would have told him something only Hal and Macardil would know. So at least he was not the brother who had captured and held Halberion under such abysmal conditions. At least he was not the brother who had likely pressured Alyssa into... Macardil's jaw ticked. At least this man was not the brother involved with... corsairs. And it stood to reason that he was, therefore, not the brother who'd played a part in whatever had happened to Reilly.

Based on all he had heard - this was very likely the brother who'd been Reilly's friend. Who had gone to great lengths to try and find him. It all added up. So why should Macardil not trust Aderic? Was it simply his loathing for the man's brother that was holding him back? His disgust with the one who'd been calling himself Amardir Ansellidus, and who had seemingly picked apart his best friend's family? Halberion, Alyssa, Reilly... Who knew about the other children, even...

And then there was Erynneth, and everything she and Duinion had told him about the guard Lieutenant and what he had done to her, about how she'd found Reilly's transfer orders, about how they suspected Androllius of murdering another young man...about the attempted abduction of Trevadir's friends...

Macardil's eyes darkened as he considered that. The timing was close. Between the Dimaethor joust and Erynneth's ordeal, in September. Perhaps Macardil could be sure that this man, who was calling himself Aderic, who claimed not to be involved with anything regarding Halberion's family or corsairs, was in fact not involved in any of that. But could he be sure he had not been involved in any of the other situations? Perhaps both brothers were... mentally unwell.

Halberion's comment that they had more to talk about than he'd thought, drew Macardil's attention backto his friend. The Lord frowned slightly. They had a very great number of matters to discuss between them, he thought. Halberion soon clarified what he meant, however, and Macardil's lips twitched up into a half smile at the mention of congratulations. Ah,yes - of course. Macardil glanced from Halberion to Ziran, back to his friend, and then to Aderic.

Ziran took charge of the situation, then, which made Macardil's smile grow momentarily, before his face settled back into more serious lines. "We do, indeed," he agreed with Halberion, "have much to talk about." And his wedding was not the only one he wished to discuss. He also wanted to find out for certain whether his friend had or had not approved on Alyssa's marriage to Ansellidus. A story with which Macardil had had trouble believing from the very moment he had heard it.

When his lady wife asked both Bays and Aderic for their assistance, Macardil bit the inside of his cheek lightly. It was necessary, he knew. However... He stopped his line of thinking - yet again - when she laid out the plan she wished for them to follow. After considering it, he decided he could agree. Although he did severely question her offer to the jailor, who had already proven his lack of trustworthiness once. Ziran's addition, then, made Macardil's eyebrows rise. His life? She meant it, too. He could see the determination in her eyes. Another surprise.

He would leave Taendis' questions for Ziran. She was in charge of the plan and how she wished to execute it, now - Macardil had stepped back from that. He could provide his assistance, however. So he was the one to retrieve some water and food for his long-lost, and now found, friend. He appreciated Halberion's choice. It was smart, even though Macardil knew the choice must not have been easy. He briefly rested a hand on his friend's arm after he had given him the cup of water, and after setting down the food next to him. Arm.

Arm.

He took the food over to Aderic, next, but set it down on the ground rather than hand it to him. First, Macardil wordlessly grabbed one arm, and somewhat roughly pulled up the man's sleeve. He turned the man's arm over for a brief inspection. Then he did the same with his other arm - ignoring any and all possible back-talk. When he saw nothing, Macardil let out a deep breath. "No large scars," he said quietly, but loud enough for Aderic to hear him. "The brother involved in several crimes known in the City... would have had substantial scarring," he explained, still speaking quietly, locking eyes with Aderic. After a long moment, Macardil handed the younger man the sword back he had taken from him earlier. "Your assistance is welcome," Macardil stated. "For my part, as well."

He picked up the food and offered it to Aderic. A peace offering. Of sorts.

Then he stepped beside the man, and folded his arms. "We have the key to the gate. We will need to let those who will be leaving, out of the castle. And keep the key with us to be sure. If we wish to allow for reinforcements to enter, we cannot lock the gate back up, however," he noted.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

|
Lord Halberion Veranis | Aderic

Hal smiled faintly in gratitude to his friend as he accepted the food and water given to him. He drank from the water first, feeling a stronger thirst than hunger, but once Macardil had gone to bring another portion of food to Ric, Hal set the cup on the bench and started eating while watching the scene with curiosity.


Ric was about to thank him for the food, but before he had a chance to say anything, he was startled to find his arm suddenly gripped roughly by the other man. He instinctively tried to pull away, looking at him in confusion. Was he about to be bound up with the prisoners, and dragged back to Minas Tirith? Would he now have to face his brother's crimes? He felt his heart leap at the thought of it, and of the thought of his former colleagues all looking at him with disgust and hatred that he had done nothing to earn... but then, to his further confusion, his sleeve was yanked upward, his arm turned over.. and then released.

Ric stared in bafflement as the man then switched to his other arm, doing the same. What in Arda..? When he then released Ric's second arm, commenting 'No large scars', Ric was still staring at him in confusion. The questioning look changed to surprise and wonder, however, at hearing his next words. Scars?! Mar had substantial scarring on one of his arms? Ric couldn't help wondering very much about that, even as he watched Macardil offer him the sword, along with words of trust. He was surprised by that, too. Taking the sword slowly, he briefly lowered his head in gratitude to the nobleman. "Thank you, Lord Himhathol." He answered sincerely. He accepted the food with his other hand, with another little nod of thanks.

"If I may ask... what scars does my brother have?" He asked, glancing briefly at his own arms, and felt far more relieved than before, that the scratch he had sustained about a month ago while climbing in through the broken window on the level just below his room.. had not left much of a scar. He looked up again at Macardil. "He did not have any such scars, the last time that I saw him." He explained, intrigued by this development. It had been summer then, after all, and his sleeves had been shorter or rolled up, he remembered. "This is the first I have ever heard of a way to tell us apart," He explained. In fact, he did not mention that he'd even entertained a few ideas of his own, which he had not gone through with. He was sort of glad for that, now...

The matter of the key, however, brought him quickly back to the matter at hand, and he recalled an important matter. "Sergeant Bays has another key," Ric remembered. "That's how they were able to pursue me, after I locked the gate to keep them from coming after me." He mentioned, glancing toward where those guards had been stowed. It already seemed like a long time ago, when he had been desperately running away from this place. He had hoped that plan would have hindered them longer from chasing him, but he hadn't known then that the sergeant had a copy of the gate key.


"Ah! Right, I do indeed." The sergeant agreed after hearing Ric say that. He took a moment to search his keyring for the right one. It took him a little time, but soon he held that key apart from the others. "Here it is! Perhaps the extra copy can be entrusted to one of those who is leaving, while you keep possession of the other, my lord?" He suggested, fairly sure he remembered the key having ended up in Macardil's possession.


"I can take the extra key," Hal spoke up, having been listening while he was eating. "I can lock the gate when we've gotten through, then turn it over to the guards in the village, so that they may enter when they arrive. If that is what you'd like to be done." He added, unsure if Macardil would like the idea of the gates being locked with him inside. But if Hal held the other key, there should be nothing for him to worry about.