Minas Tirith Marketplace II – Free RP

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Tirdinen Duinion Raedor
Present day; Mid-December

He nodded as Macardil gave him directions to the bowyer's shop. "Thank you, I'll check there." Perhaps he'd have better luck there. His hope felt renewed about his plan working. Yet, at the same time, he decided not to get his hopes up, just in case of another disappointment.

As Macardil asked more about his injury, Duinion paused to consider how much to reply about that. He would normally not want to tell anyone about it, but he reminded himself that he had just expressed a hope to be friends with Macardil, and being reluctant to discuss things seemed like a poor way to start a friendship. "I'm mostly healed, though I.. have a slight limp that lingers." He admitted. "It's not so noticeable anymore."

He drew in a slow breath. "As for what happened," He smiled wryly. "it was a sort of.. training trip gone wrong." Sighing softly, he looked down at the pathway as they walked. "I took a trainee up into the mountains to gather some herbs which the healers were low on. It should have been safe enough, just getting a few plants. Camping outdoors for a couple of nights, that sort of thing. Good training for survival. Only.." he hesitated. "we encountered very bad luck our first night in camp." He glanced at Macardil. "A troll.. surprised us in the night." He admitted, a bit embarrassed but could not deny the truth. "Apparently, it was living in a cave near where we chose to camp."

He paused to collect his thoughts and decide what else to say. "The young man was not hurt, except a couple of cracked ribs. I, however, was.. not so fortunate." He shrugged and sighed in sorrow. "I took a blow to the torso from the troll swinging his arm at me," He explained, finding it a bit odd to talk about it, when he had not spoken of it to anyone since he first returned. "The swing hit me in the torso.. and broke my bow. That alone was a grievous loss," He sighed. "It also sent me flying several yards away.. and I landed rather painfully on my ankle." He drew in a deep breath. "It was, indeed, a severe injury."

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen

Macardil
Mid-December

He raised his eyebrows when Duinion spoke of a troll. "A troll," he repeated, looking at the ranger next to him. "And the trainee only had a few broken ribs, which have healed fully, I reckon, and you now have a barely noticeable limp - and the troll... is dead?" He would deem that quite a favourable outcome, since Duinion and the trainee had been facing the beast by themselves. "I am sorry to hear about your bow, and both your injuries," he said. But then he shook his head, for both people seemed to have drawn the lucky straw, all things considered.

"I take it you have fashioned yourself a new bow?" He smiled faintly, for it was meant to be encouraging. "And that you already have a feel for it, if you are inviting me to shoot some arrows?" The smile grew slightly. "Unless you were wishing to get absolutely obliterated tomorrow?"

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Tirdinen Duinion Raedor
Present day; Mid-December

Duinion smiled. "My trainee did quite well, yes." He agreed, though without mentioning the fact that Rome had gone against what Duinion told him to do. Or that he'd grazed him with an arrow by accident. "While I was struggling not to pass out, he managed to keep the thing busy until suddenly, the dawn broke through the clouds and put an end to it." He let out a little sigh of relief at that.

With a little smile, he nodded in answer to the next question. "Yes, I have made a new bow," He assured him, and laughed. "I've been using it for a few months now, at least. I've made a few bows lately, in fact. Not all for me, but I thought it might not be a bad idea to have a backup, at least." He mentioned, shrugging slightly. "So, no need to worry about obliterating me," he grinned. "I've got the new one adjusted just perfect, and I've been keeping well practiced. Can't have my little girl outshooting me, you know."

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen

Macardil
Mid-December

Macardil gauged Duinion's expression for a moment after the man said the trainee had kept the troll busy until the coming of daylight had settled the matter. "It sounds like a story fit for a campfire," he offered, "though I suspect you would not easily share it in full." If he well remembered Duinion's personality, that was.

His smile turned into a smirk. "Excellent." He did prefer good competition. "I am looking forward to it." He raised his bag of groceries. "Well, I still have a few errands to run, as well as some other activities on my list. And then I will have a lady warrior to feed, which is no sinecure, I am afraid. Will you think it very remiss of me if I take my leave already, Duinion? In any case, I shall see you tomorrow afternoon. Thank you..." A pause, before he continued more quietly. "For the invitation. It is well appreciated."

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Tirdinen Duinion Raedor
Present day; Mid-December

He shrugged slightly in reply to the comment about a campfire story, and with a little nod, agreed with Macardil's following addition. "It is not the most enjoyable tale to tell," He admitted. In fact, he felt very much as if he had failed somewhere in it, and preferred not to talk about the ordeal. It always reminded him of the sadness he'd felt at losing his bow. Although his new one also bore the ribbon which Idhrenel had given him, it had not been tied on by her hands, and therefore.. it didn't feel quite the same. That was something Macardil would likely understand, if he mentioned it, but he didn't.

Instead, he nodded as Macardil mentioned having a few other errands to complete. "Of course not," Duinion answered in understanding. "I should go and speak to the bowyer now... wish me luck. And, thank you for telling me where to find him... I don't know why that smith didn't think to mention that." He rolled his eyes, then smiled and put out a hand toward Macardil. "I am very glad I had this chance to talk to you." His smile spread a little. "And I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow. Eryn will probably be there at that time, and you can meet her. She would probably enjoy joining us for some shooting, too." He made mention of the fact in advance so he would know to possibly expect her as well.

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen

Macardil
Mid-December

He shook Duinion's hand. "Perhaps the smith was too busy thinking of other things. I am glad I might have been able to lend assisstance, though, and very glad indeed that we happened upon each other. I never would have expected..." He let the sentence trail off into nothing, and tilted his head, figuring that was enough of an explanation between them. "But the surprise was - is - very pleasant." As if pleasant covered it. The trip to Dol Amroth in late summer had been difficult, challenging - but it had also brought hope. And it did seem that it had been the beginning of a more positive trajectory for his social circle.

"Tomorrow," he confirmed, before starting to make his way back out of the park. "I look forward to meeting your daughter, Duinion," he added genuinely, speaking over his shoulder as he raised a hand in final goodbye.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Tirdinen Duinion Raedor
Present day; Mid-December

"Perhaps," He answered, thinking that did seem likely, since the guy had not seemed to want to take a moment to speak to him. Duinion smiled to hear that the surprise was pleasant. "I'm glad." He left it at that, although he might have went on to say 'glad to see you walking free' or 'glad you weren't actually ignoring me' or a couple of other things. Simply 'glad' seemed to cover it all, at least for now.

With a nod, he raised a hand in a wave as they parted ways. "See you then." He smiled and then turned back toward the market. Taking a breath before plunging into what, to him, seemed like a sea of people, he strode toward the street where Macardil had said the bowyer was located.

A little while later, he left the shop with a little smile, no longer carrying the arrows. He had struck an arrangement with the fellow to supply arrows to the shop on consignment, and he was quite pleased with the agreement. With his business now done, he eagerly set off toward home.

[Rillewen]

@Lantaelen

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Dulinneth and Wisteria
Dec 22
(continued from here)

The tour of the Hall of Song had been exciting, especially the part when they got to step onto the stage and pretend to be dancers. Even if Linn had worried that someone in authority might come along and tell them they were trespassing, she had found it very exciting. She found herself testing out some of the dance steps that Wist had shown them, trying to practice, even as they went down to the lower levels. Thankfully, it wasn't quite as cold as they descended to the market level, and Linn found it easier to breathe, as well.

The whole way, she had been thinking about the question that Gaer had posed to her. What color? She tried to think about what color the theater's auditorium had been done in. And the color that the dancers would probably be wearing, which Wist couldn't give an easy answer to, since they would all have different outfits for their parts. And then she thought about the fact that her parents were always having her dress in maroon and dark green, and she hoped to get a chance to wear something totally different for a change. She decided that it might be best to wait and see if anything caught their eye, and go from there.

As for Wist, she had remained mostly quiet as the other two girls talked of going shopping, getting new dresses, and even accessories, all to match. She really didn't have much to choose from.. only a couple of dresses that she'd had for a long while. Everyday clothes that she wore for work. The dress she had worn to the masquerade was borrowed from the theater's costume department, and she'd had to hurry and get it back in the closet before anyone noticed it being missing. However, if the other two were intent on getting matching things, maybe she could find something close to it, in the same closet, and borrow it for just that one night? She didn't speak her thoughts, but kept along with them since they did not seem to object to her coming along shopping.

"Ohhh, look at that!" Dulinneth spotted a dress in the window of one of the shops, and pointed it out to the others. "What do you think, Gaer? Wist?" She bounced lightly on the balls of her feet. "Let's see what else they have?" She started toward the shop, but glanced back to make sure that the others were going to come, and had no protests about taking a look inside the clothing shop.

[Lantaelen]

@Rillewen

Lord Abrazimir Dimaethor & Lady Gaerlothriel Dimaethor
December 22nd, Marketplace, Minas Tirith, Gondor
[Arriving from here]

The day was growing and the Sun was climbing, helping to relieve some of the cold of the morning when they originally set out. Abrazimir walked with his cloak opened at the front, feeling more comfortable, especially warmed by the thoughts of the secret missive he received earlier. It made this day of forced chaperoning for his sister and her friends almost exciting. Looks like there was something for everyone today.

For Gaer and Linny, coming from noble estates, meeting with dressmakers and seamstresses were a common routine for them. Usually under a mother’s purview, they would be measured and shown colours and endure plenty of fittings to slowly grow a wardrobe of lovely gowns and dresses and skirts. But today was a first, to be able to browse, and independently choose, what they might wear for a function of their own making. But Gaer never forgot that Wisti was a stranger to such things. She tried to include the girl as much as possible in the browsing and inspecting of possible items and styles they might go with. After all, if they were going to get her something, they should also hear the opinions of someone who would be wearing it right? The girls would also know what it was like to have enforced dress codes upon them. Now was the chance to soar free of any restrictions or limitations, except what they imposed on themselves.

Linny spotted a lovely dress in the front display of a street facing store, making Gaer coo at the lovely design and embroidery. ”Let’s go!” She agreed, wrapping her arm around Wisti’s arm to make her feel included, following Linny into the store like three happy puppies. Abrazimir followed more slowly. Well at least it smelled nice in the store. He lingered by the doorway and decided to have a reread of a particular note he had, musing over it’s contents, how he might conduct his actions about it…

”How do you feel about…red?” Gaer whispered to the girls, as the store was much smaller than the Hall of Songs and sound could carry very easily, and it seemed like a very serious place of business inside! [/b]”Like maroon or burgundy hued? And maybe with white gloves and white belts?”[/b] She suggested as a starting point. She stopped by one particular dress hung on the wall and felt at the hem of the sleeve. It felt like velvet. There were prices for renting and outright purchasing.

She stopped by a bright green dress and gestured to it back to the girls. ”Oh, this one would just match Wisti’s eyes so lovingly. Don’t you have one just like this?” She asked, asking Linny but trying to determine if it’s something Wisti might like wearing. They could all wear green perhaps. She knew Linny had a few and Gaer could find something from her mother’s wardrobe. And they could buy, or rent, a dress for Wisti to match them either way.

[Rillewen]

@Lantaelen

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Dulinneth and Wisteria
Dec 22 - one of the clothing shops

It was a strange feeling for Wisteria, to not only be walking around the city in the company of friends, but with an armed escort trailing along after them. She periodically glanced back just enough to see that he was still with them, but soon her attention was drawn toward one of the shops. One she had walked past plenty of times before, but never went into because it was out of her price range. Of course, it wasn't one of the absolutely over-priced shops, like they had in the upper levels, but it was still more than she could afford on her meager wages. So, when Gaer and Linn started admiring a dress in the window, Wist tried not to shift too awkwardly, subconsciously trying to tug the edges of her too-small jacket a bit closer together, as if that might cover up the faded old dress she had on. Yet, she was distracted from her futile attempts at closing her jacket, when Gaer took her arm and actually drew her into the shop!

Eyes wide, Wist looked around, following tentatively behind as Linn and Gaer looked around and whispered about this or that dress. Cautiously, Wist reached out and lightly touched the dress that Gaer had just touched, and marveled at how soft and fuzzy the fabric felt. Like something from the costume department, perhaps, only richer. She wasn't sure whether she ought to dare look for a price, however, and found that she couldn't quite bring herself to mention that there was no way she could afford one of these. What if they didn't want to let her join them in the box, if she didn't have the right sort of clothing?

"Oh, I wear maroon all the time," Linn sighed, feeling somewhat sick of that color. "I don't mind green too much, but I do wear that an awful lot, too." She mentioned. Those were her father's house colors, after all, and so she always ended up dressing in some combination of the two any time there was any sort of social function to attend. For this, Linn would rather have something in a color of her own choosing. However, she couldn't deny that the one dress was a good match to Wisteria's eyes. Linn thought for a moment. "Oh! I have an idea." She grinned. "What if we get dresses to match, but we do different colors?" She suggested. "If Wisteria likes green, for instance," She turned to her, "then you can have green. And I can get.. blue, maybe. And Gaer can get maroon or whatever color you like. So, the dresses would all be made the same, but in different colors." She thought it was an excellent idea, but she wanted to know what her friends might think of the idea.

Wist hesitated, shifting from one foot to the other. "I um, I don't really have the money to buy a new dress." She admitted quietly, feeling she might as well let them know that before they made any further plans, and hoped that this would not cause them to have to alter their own plans. In fact, when they had first mentioned letting her join them to watch the ballet, it had not even occurred to her that she would need any different clothes, but of course.. they wouldn't want her to join them in the theater box wearing her everyday stuff that she wore when scrubbing floors and dusting cobwebs. So, perhaps there was a chance she could borrow something a little nicer from the costume closet.. if she was careful, and didn't choose something they'd be needing in the performance.

[Lantaelen]

@Rillewen

Lord Abrazimir Dimaethor & Lady Gaerlothriel Dimaethor
December 22nd, Marketplace, Minas Tirith, Gondor

Gaer was well aware of Wisti’s rising trepidation at being in such a rich and luxurious shop like this. The girl did not seem to have much in the way of means or ends but Gaer was happy to bridge the differences. What was the point of privilege if not to do just that? Maybe it was founded in a bit of naivety on Gaer’s behalf. She didn’t have many friends outside her circle, which was very filtered and selective through her parent’s control and expectations. Only other daughters of nobility. But the world was so much bigger and there was a lot Wisti could teach them. Paying for a dress and show tickets was small recompense in comparison.

She nodded understandingly to Linny’s choice of colours. Gaer felt that way about blue. It was just so…common, and overdone, in Belfalas. Maroon felt like the exact opposite. Linny’s seemed the best compromise. ”They do have this dress in many colours.” Gaer noted, eyes sweeping over red, blue, yellow, white, silver, and green versions. It was a modest and humble dress. Father would certainly have nothing against it. Green, red, and blue, it was decided and Gaer produced her coin purse from her sleeve again. It would be near empty after this purchase. It took her eighteen months to save up and she spent it all in a day in the City…

Then Wisti spoke up and her quiet tone almost broke Gaer’s heart. She gave Linny a knowing look and then stepped to Wisti’s side, again wrapping her arm around Wisti’s elbow in a friendly, affectionate manner. ”Don’t you worry about a thing. Linny and I will buy it, you can just pay us back whenever.” Gaer smiled widely. And with no intention of ever looking to collect. Nor did the repayment have to be in coin. It could be in favours or other teachings. Wisti knew so much about fancy dancing and Gaer certainly did not mind picking up a few new techniques. If she ever found herself dancing with a handsome man, like Sir Fox, she would certainly enjoy impressing them. That would be worth so much to Gaer, more than the price of a simple dress or two.

”You’re going to be teaching us so much about song and dance, treat it like…a fee for lessons, or something of that sort. Yes?” Gaer said, suddenly seeming like an adult, speaking with an air of authority and expertise that was meant to persuade and elicit a trustworthy affirmation from the other girl. She gave Wisti’s arm a squeeze, then detached to go find the shopkeeper, to let him know he had three potential sales ready to go. Rentals, if possible. That would probably be cheaper and easier for Wisti to carry if the so-called compensation didn’t seem so hefty. Easier to write off.

[Rillewen]

@Lantaelen

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Dulinneth and Wisteria
Dec 22 - one of the clothing shops

To hear Gaer's reassurance, Wist looked at her in wonder, then uncertainty as the older girl added the bit about paying her back. It would take a very long time before she was able to repay such a debt. Whether she paid it back over much time, with her wages, or if she managed to actually become a professional dancer. She had no idea how long that might take, nor how long Gaer might be willing to wait.

As she was trying to think of how to respond to it, Gaer suggested using dancing lessons or something as 'payment'. She looked at her in some surprise, then smiled slowly. "Really? I could do that, I suppose!" She knew enough to have trained on her own, and she did her best to remember everything the actual dance teachers taught their students, so why not? "Are you sure, though?"

"Oh, yes!" Linn agreed. "That's an excellent idea. Now they could get her some proper stuff and she could just teach them some more ballet stuff, and it would all work out for everyone. Right? "So! Do you like green, or blue, or what?"

Wist looked at the dress options, hesitating as she debated between pink or green. After a moment she picked up the green one and held it up to her, and lifted her gaze up to a nearby mirror.

"It does bring out your eyes," Linn mentioned, thinking that seemed perfect.

Wist smiled. "I think.. I'll go with this one, then."

"Great!" Linn bounced happily. "I'll get the blue one." She declared. It would be a nice change from the usual. "And.." She tried to think of what else they might need. "Some fancy hats, maybe?" She wondered, unsure what the other girls might want to wear. Hats to match the dresses would make their outfits that much fancier, after all. She looked at the other girl for a moment to get some ideas, then glanced around the shop display racks. "Ooh, look!" She pulled out a nice coat. "We could get some coats to match the dresses? So it all coordinates? Maybe gloves and scarves, too.." She thought about how cold it had been this morning, at breakfast.

"Won't that all cost.. an awful lot?" Wist spoke up in a near whisper, a little unsure. "I mean.. I don't know how much you have, but.."

"Oh, don't worry about that," Linn assured her hastily. "You know.." She paused, thinking. "I wonder if the shopkeeper would let us buy things on credit, if we tell them our father's names?" She said, glancing at Gaer. "I know my father has come to Minas Tirith before, on business, maybe they'd agree.." She wasn't really sure about how all that worked, but she knew that back home, if she wanted to get something from a store that knew her family well, and she did not have any money on her, she could just tell them (if they didn't already know) who she was, and that her family would pay the owed amount at another time.

[Lantaelen]

@Rillewen

Lord Abrazimir Dimaethor & Lady Gaerlothriel Dimaethor
December 22nd, Marketplace, Minas Tirith, Gondor

”I am very sure!” Gaer beamed at Wisti, seeing acceptance in the other girl’s face and tone and not letting that idea even remotely have the chance of dying out. If anything, Gaer thought she was getting the better deal! If only the other girls could know the designs Gaer had once she learned all Wisti could impart. Then the young Lady Dimaethor could really wow that clever and sly Sir Fox and anyone else with her moves. They would never know what hit them.

Linny was onboard too, though Gaer was sure the bulk of the payment would come from whatever little coin she had left but she was happy to share the lessons. Like herself, Gaer was sure Linny would blossom in her own brand and style when she was a bit older than she was now. And none of their parents could fault them for this, right? They were taking their own education under control and looking to make themselves very presentable young ladies. And Wisti too, they could bring her along. Maybe find her a nice, rich husband and all…

The colours were decided. Green for Wisti, blue for Linny, and red for Gaer. It was a strange colour for her but she was eager to try it. And it wasn’t so wicked a colour anymore since the war ended. She was less excited about hats though. Gaer liked her hair and she would rather have it displayed without coverage or barrier. In this she followed her friends lead, admiring the display of hats available. But she was very much onboard when it came to outer coats, gloves, and scarves. At least these would have more utility for Wisti as well in her everyday life. Linny too. Gaer, having an older sister who moved out, had plenty of hand-me-downs to pick from.

She was doing the mental calculations in her head of how much it should all cost. It…might be a little more than she could barter for. Wisti was right, but Linny had a new plan. On credit. ”That could work. The gloves, scarves and coats we could probably have today, and pay for it. But the dresses will have to be tailored and adjusted to us. That’ll mean we’ll have to come back tomorrow or the day after, before the show. We can bring the rest of the money then.” She explained her thinking, looking for correction if she might be wrong. She glanced towards her brother too, who was still meandering by the door staring out the window with an absolutely bored stiff expression.

Who says they had to use their parents names or even tell them?

Well, the best way to figure it out was to ask the shopkeeper first. And speaking in Sindarin would obviously showcase their noble backgrounds. ”Okay, pick the gloves and scarves you girls want most.” She said, grabbing herself a checked orange and blue one, though she already had gloves so she forewent that item for herself. ”Feel how soft this is!” She then said to her friends, first putting the scarf to Linny’s cheek and rubbing it softly. So soft! She offered it to Wisti as well and what followed would be a few moments of soft giggling as they tested the softness and quality of the fabric on their hands and cheeks.

When the girls were ready with their choices, Gaer would approach the front desk and make the purchases, as well as see about trying on and getting fitted in the new dresses. It might take a few hours. And Abrazimir better be ready to play his part as their rich benefactor.

[Rillewen]

@Lantaelen

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Dulinneth and Wisteria
Dec 22 - one of the clothing shops

Linn was very happy to see how happy Wisteria looked as they chose their dresses and accessories. Since Gaer was not in favor of a hat to go with the dress, Wist suggested hairbows, instead. Those were cheaper, anyway, she noted mentally, and figured that would be a nice addition to decorate their hair without covering it up, since Gaer seemed unfavorable to doing so.

At the thought of getting a coat, scarf, gloves and such, Wist started wondering if this was all some sort of dream. Or, perhaps all of these things were only on loan. She wondered if she ought not get too excited, in case she would have to give them back, but the thought of getting an actual coat... she couldn't help but feel excited at the thought of having a proper coat. And not an old, worn out one that someone had gotten tired of and donated, but a pretty, new one that would last her a good, long while. And not only that, but a scarf and gloves as well? She could almost pretend it was her birthday or something, with all these nice things being bought for her.

By the time they had made their selections, got fitted for dresses, and were finally ready to leave the shop, Wist was growing increasingly more aware of how late it was getting by now. They each had a new coat, scarf, and gloves, and the shop's tailor had taken their measurements so that the dresses could be tailored to fit them exactly. Wist had never been fitted for a dress before, and found the process rather curious. But, soon, she would have to go to work. She wished she could stay and spend more time with Gaer and Linn, but she didn't dare skip her work today, or she might not have a job, tomorrow.

"This has been so much fun," She smiled, twirling as she tested out the new coat, as the three left the shop with their new outerwear. "Thank you, so much," She smiled and threw her arms around Gaer, then Linn, before stepping back with a smile. "I wish I didn't have to go, but I really have to get to work soon." She explained with a sigh, but soon smiled again as she lowered her voice to a conspiratory whisper. "I'll be sure to have our box extra clean for when we get to watch the show." She promised, grinning.

Linn laughed. "I'm so glad you got to join us, Wist! It's been so much fun. And I can't wait for us to all watch the ballet together!" She bounced lightly in eagerness. "We'll have to meet somewhere, won't we?" She asked with a glance to Gaer. "To get our dresses and all.. and so we can walk in together." She smiled, thinking that might be nicer than them all coming to the theater separately and meeting there.

[Lantaelen]

@Rillewen

Lord Abrazimir Dimaethor & Lady Gaerlothriel Dimaethor
December 22nd, Marketplace, Minas Tirith, Gondor

Wisti’s restrained astonishment with her new garments and outfit became Gaer’s secret delight. She played it off like a casual thing, not at all a drain on her finances or anything. She had plenty in her life to make due with. The girls were measured and tailored to the dresses and got sip pomegranate juice like rich old aunties with too much time on their hands. They tittered and giggled and Gaer put on a show, posing very seriously when presented with the hand mirror. It was so much fun and time flew by so quickly, just one moment to the next.

Well not for everyone, Abrazimir sitting on a chair by the door, using his knife to cut small, loose microscopic threads off his own garments as he waited for his sister and her friends to be finished. And rereading his little note.

Gaerlothriel wished they had more time, but there were only so many hours in a day. And only so many days she was to spend in Minas Tirith. Suddenly it felt as if they were being parted for a very long time and not just the handful of days to their next meeting for the ballet show. Darkness came earlier in the winter months and though it wasn’t even the dinner hour, the Sun was quickly setting. And the cold winds picking up. Still, laughter ensured as they exited the store, new hats and gloves and scarves adorning their outfits. Wisti especially looked like a woman renewed and Gaer felt a strange motherly pride. The sacrifice of a few coins for this happiness? Well worth it.

”You’re so welcome!” Gaer said as they all embraced. ”I wish you didn’t either, but we have to get back as well.” Or else their guardians might punish them for this lateness by not letting them out again. Gaer felt she was old enough to have a proper extension of her time for outing but Linny was still too young and Gaer had a responsibility for her as well, to set an example of a proper Lady too.

”Don’t worry about the extra, I just want to see you there!” She grinned to the conspiratorial whisper. Linny beckoned her farewells and Gaer did as well. ”Yes! The…alcove, with the picnic table, where we had our lunch. Let’s meet up there on the day of the show? Then we can come to the shop, get our dresses, then go to the Hall of Songs for an evening of songs! And dance.” Gaer offered up as a plan, performing a little twirl in excitement for the dancing they would see.

”We can walk you there though, yeah? It’s getting dark.” Gaer also suggested, prolonging their get together by a few moments. The Hall of Songs wasn’t very far from where they stood.

”Of course.” Abrazimir agreed with a nod.

They walked then, arms interlinked and all, with their guardian knight trudging along, to the Hall of Songs to deposit Wisti there for her shift. Once more, they took turns hugging Wisti in farewell. ”See you soon, mellon nin.” Gaer beckoned to Wisti, pressing her cold cheek to Wisti’s cold cheek affectionately as they embraced. ”Don’t work too hard now and spin an extra twirl for us, if you find time to practice. I know I will be!” Gaerlothriel said, happy to know too where to send her letters to as well. She let Linny state her goodbyes, then they could be off as well, down to the Dimaethor lodgings, where they had another plan for the evening to follow up such a lovely afternoon.

[Rillewen]

@Lantaelen

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Dulinneth and Wisteria
Dec 22 - one of the clothing shops

Wist giggled at Gaer's words about not worrying about 'the extra'. "Yes, but we wouldn't want to share our box with crumbs left over from the last people," She pointed out, amused. Not that she'd leave crumbs, but she would probably end up doing a little more than the usual amount, for that box. For that night.

"I'm sure it'll be great!" Linn declared, happy to have been a part of making Wist happier. And she could hardly wait to watch the ballet performance, either! Three days seemed an impossible time to wait.

Once the plan was arranged, as far as where they would meet and all that, Wist nodded and made a mental note. She sure wouldn't want to be late! When asked if they could walk her there, to work, Wist blinked in surprise. She had not expected that. "Sure, yeah!" She smiled, glad not to have to part from them just yet. After each of her new friends had given her a hug in temporary farewell, she giggled at Gaer's request to spin an extra twirl. "I will," She promised, smiling. She would most definitely be finding some time to practice, she just didn't know exactly when.

"See you in a few days, if we don't see you sooner!" Linn declared with a smile.

"Yes, perhaps I will!" Wist answered, wondering if they might come by, or if she might see them around town perhaps. "Thank you for everything." She added, mainly to Gaer, for buying her the coat and scarf and gloves and things, but to Linn also, for being a part of it. She hesitated before turning to Gaer's brother a bit more shyly, and offered a small curtsy. "Thank you, sir, for having patience with us girls all day." She added timidly, unsure quite how to address the knight, but she felt some polite words were in order.


Once all the goodbyes and things were done, Wist hurried inside the Hall of Song to begin her work. Linn twirled in place in excitement, then ended up facing Gaer. "Well! Shall we go meet Wildflower, then?" She asked, excited. They had another meeting to keep, after all. "I think it's around the time she said she'd be waiting... near the main gate." She added, recalling what she and the girl in pink had discussed. She hoped they hadn't kept her waiting too long!

[Lantaelen]

@Rillewen

Lord Abrazimir Dimaethor & Lady Gaerlothriel Dimaethor
December 22nd, Marketplace, Minas Tirith, Gondor

Wisti continued to express her gratitude and Gaer just smiled and tried to wave it off as being nothing on her part. It was her pleasure to help out a friend. The outside world from her closeted noble upbringing was so grandiose and different. She couldn’t wait to be more and more apart of it all. She couldn’t wait to see her friend again. And the ballet. And everything! ”Bye!” She beckoned and waved until Wisti was inside and gone.

Abrazimir was surprised he got some thanks as well but he waved it off with a hand. ”Be well.” He just beckoned his sister’s young friend.

The mention of meeting a Wildflower now confused him but the girls seemed to know. To the main gate then! Gaer linked her arm with Linny after she twirled. It was growing dark out and she wondered if that might affect their plans, though Minas Tirith was a well lit city with plenty of lamps and burning braziers and torches. And it was not that cold either. ”Let’s go!” Gaer agreed with Linny and together the two girls walked down through the streets and various levels, while their knight followed.

”She’s such a nice girl. I can’t wait to see her again.” Gaer said to Linny about Wisti. She wondered how envious or jealous their other friends, Dina and Meressel, might be when they heard this tale and adventure. ” One week is too short a time to be here. Every street or avenue that turns off the main road I feel has a mystery and treasure to discover. I want to live here and just dance!” Gaer said, feeling a surge of excitement come over her. She came out in front of Linny, took her hands, and together they spun and twirled through the streets, careless of the eyes who beheld their silliness.

”Settle down before you slip and fall.” Abrazimir just warned and Gaer heeded his warning and ceased her movements, linking her arm back with Linny’s at her side. They were arriving at the main gate and now they had to locate another mystery person who’s face they might not know.

[Rillewen]

@Lantaelen

Dulinneth
Dec 22 - 5th level, going down to the first level
Meeting friend #2

Linn waved after Wist before turning to grin at Gaer. "That was fun!" She declared. "I can't wait to see the ballet!" She laughed as she twirled at the same time as Gaer, then linked her arm with her friend. The walk down through the circles was much more fun now that they knew Wist's secret for keeping the cold away; dancing instead of walking! They, of course, had better wraps to ward off the cold weather than their friend had had, at least at the start of the day. Linn was very happy to have had some part in seeing the other girl dressed in a warm coat that fit her properly, in fact, Wist's new coat had been just loose enough to allow for a little growth, so that she wouldn't have to worry as much about outgrowing it, in case she wasn't finished growing.

"I know," Linn agreed with a wistful little sigh, as Gaer mentioned wishing they had more time to be here. She wished she could spend much more time here. She wished she could explore and locate the address that she had sent letters to, but she also didn't know if that was such a good idea. Maybe her brother wasn't even in the city anymore. He hadn't been writing back to her, and she really hoped that meant he had moved on, rather than.. something bad happening. But she didn't say anything about any of that, not with Abrazimir so near to them. She didn't even dare tell Gaer where she had sent her return letters, because that was a part of the secret that she didn't dare divulge.

As her friend came around and took her hands, leading her into a silly spin, Linn laughed as she let those troubles slip away to the back of her mind. Until Abrazimir scolded them for their silly, careless twirling, and she had to fight not to pout as they were made to 'behave'. Still, she was soon grinning again as they approached the main gates. "She said she'd meet us here, when she finished at her job," She told Gaer, eager to meet this girl. "And she said she'd have a red cloak on." Linn added, recalling the conversation she had had with this new friend. Remembering that Gaer had not actually met the girl, she hoped that they would get along as well as she and Linn had!

As they approached the gate, she spotted a girl standing off to one side, wearing a red cloak. She looked like she was waiting, looking around and watching folks who passed through the gates, and not making any move to get out of the cold. Just standing where she could be seen by someone who might be looking for her, such as they. But she looked far different from the girl that Linn had talked to at the masquerade. She paused, thinking back. Wildflower had mentioned that she was in disguise, Linn recalled. "That might be her," She whispered to Gaer, nodding to the girl to point her out to Gaer. "I hope she hasn't been waiting long."

[Rillewen]

(Private - just a flashback)

Living quarters above "Needful Things" shop
Sometime in July, late at night
Following up from this tale

The floorboard was easy enough to pry up, using a butter knife she'd swiped from somewhere. The nails holding the board to the floor-framing had come loose long ago, which is what had inspired her to find out whether it could be pulled up more. The space found underneath looked satisfactory as a hiding place, as there was a suitable gap between the ceiling of the lower level, and the floor of the upper level. While her 'roommate' was away visiting his friend, as he had done often lately, Strawberry had been busy. She couldn't stick around here for much longer, and had decided that it was time she was on her way. But she had some things she needed to leave behind, because there was no use for them in her pack. From it, she took a few things.

One of these was a leatherbound book, filled with handwritten things. Whatever it said, it probably didn't have anything to do with CG's business, as she had first thought. In fact, she had no idea why she'd hung onto it. She ought to have put it back on the desk after she'd realized it was useless to her. But she had just sort of absently slipped it into her pack without really knowing why. And then when she'd come across it later, in her pack, she had sighed. But there was no way she was going to break into the guard tower again, just to return it. And since she didn't know what it contained, she didn't know whether she ought to leave it on the doorstep of the guard headquarters. And somehow, she felt reluctant to ask Gwand what it said.

The other items consisted of a few folders, filled with files. She had given CG the one he wanted, but he had no interest in the others. Since she had no use for them, either, she had no idea what to do with them. So, into the hiding spot they went. On top of them went the book. The file folders being wider than the space, the edges curved up around the book as if to hug it. Next, she placed another book; a ledger of some sort which she had taken from the jewelry store. On top of all that, she placed a small sack filled with jewelry. Fake jewelry, stolen from that shop down in the market. And another sack, filled with the real jewels. She'd meant to try to find a way to study that book, to find out who the jewels belong to, but too many things had prevented her from any further investigation.

She figured she'd stash all this stuff away for now, where it would be safe. Then maybe, eventually, she'd have a chance to come back for it later. She could look into the situation more, then. Maybe. Whatever. She told herself it wasn't her problem. She had to get out of here. If she'd known that the evil guy was a guard in this city, she never would've come here, but once she got in, it was hard to get back out. Too many gates, too many guards. It seemed like she'd been trapped here for ages, hiding away, afraid to leave the place except at night. And then, she had to be careful not to be seen. While she did like having a safe place to sleep, and company to spend the days with, Strawberry was starting to feel restless. Besides... the longer she stayed here, the more the chances were that she would be discovered. And if he learned she was here, then not only would she be in serious danger, but Gwand might be, as well. As hard as it was for her to accept, she knew that she had to leave before she ended up drawing trouble to her new friend.

Gwand had said he'd help her get out, but then various things kept happening to delay that. While she had initially been sort of glad for the delay, as it meant that she didn't have to leave so soon, now she was starting to get worried. After hearing about the guy trying to impersonate Gwand's nephew, Strawberry decided that she couldn't sit around waiting any longer. She had to do something, whatever she could do, to keep him safe.

She had spent the past several days trying to think of how she might accomplish that. Ultimately, in the end, the only solution she could see was simply to try and draw the attention of their mutual enemy, away from him. Away from his family. She kept trying to think of another option, but always came back to that one. She knew it was probably the most effective way to draw the man's attention away from Gwand. But the question was, how could she do it without putting herself into more danger than she could handle? After several days of deliberating and pondering on this problem, she had eventually decided on a tentative plan. First, she had to get out of Minas Tirith, though.

As she placed the floorboard back down, she stood up and stepped on it to make sure it got pressed down properly, and that it felt normal. It rested flush with its neighbors, except for a tiniest bit of looseness. And there was a slightly different sound when one stepped on the board, but it was in a corner of the room that didn't get much traffic, so it seemed unlikely anyone would be walking there much. The corner where she had been sleeping for the past few weeks. Hopefully, no one would come across her stash. And while she didn't know how long she'd be gone, she figured if Gwand came across the stuff, he would know it was her who had put it there. And no one else lived there, so she didn't think she had much to worry about.

Now, having hidden away all of the useless items that would only prove as excess weight in her pack, Strawberry was left with one more quandary. How could she say goodbye? She suspected, if she wasn't wrong about the man's character, then he would try to convince her against this plan if he knew what she had in mind. He had demonstrated concern for her wellbeing, and while that was nice... she figured he wouldn't approve of her intention to draw their enemy away from him. But she felt bad just leaving without saying goodbye or anything. At times like this, she regretted that she did not know how to read or write.

After thinking for a moment, she took an apple out of her pack and placed it on the windowsill, on top of a folded paper, which he had seen before. The message was very vague, of course. Perhaps too vague. But, she hoped he would understand, at least, that she had left. She had spent enough time here that he would surely be aware how much she enjoyed apples. And she had gone in and out of the window often enough that he probably wouldn't question that part. But hopefully, at least, by her leaving the apple, he would realize that she had left of her own accord. And that she was leaving him something in thanks for having let her stay so long. As for the paper... that was the wanted poster that she had received from CG, with a sketch of her, and the crimes the Evil guard had made up to accuse her of. If Gwand put together that she was planning to make use of the fact that the Evil guard wanted her, then maybe he'd realize her purpose in leaving, and why she had not told him she was going to do so. Hopefully, he would forgive her for that. Also, hopefully, he wouldn't misunderstand the whole message... but she would just have to take that risk.

She couldn't think of any other way to convey her thanks, or to tell him why she was leaving, nor whether she might return. The only other option she saw, was to wait for him to figure out a way to get her out. But she'd manage on her own. She'd managed on her own for quite a while now, and she had been foolish to think she could stay in one place for too long. With a heavy heart as she cast one last look into the room that had been her unofficial home for the past several weeks, Strawberry slipped out through the window and soon disappeared into the darkness, and would be gone by the time her fatherly friend returned.


(this flashback is to help explain this matter)


(Edit: making some corrections)

[Lantaelen]

@Rillewen

Lord Abrazimir Dimaethor & Lady Gaerlothriel Dimaethor
December 22nd, Marketplace, Minas Tirith, Gondor

Another woman with a job. Gaerlothriel was starting to feel a sort of shame over her privileged status, having grown up in a large manor and keep, with servants and nice things. What work did she ever know, besides some occasional school work for her tutors or a bit of seamstressing like every good, traditional girl is supposed to know? These women they were meeting had to really work for their living and comfort. Did they go too much on Wisti just now? Did they come off as spoiled brats? This whole adventure was really eye opening in a strange way for Gaer. She had all sorts of emotions that covered the whole spectrum of feelings. And it felt like dark clouds were starting to gather. That she might be doing something…wrong.

”Red cloak, got it.” Gaer affirmed, casting her sea-grey eyes over the streets and boulevards as they walked together back down to the main gate. Shouldn’t be too hard to spot within the white and grey stone of the city’s buildings. The people mostly wore earthen colours. Guardsmen wore the sable and silver livery of the White Tower. Though, in these times of peace people were more expressive now and there were quite a number of red cloaks. ”Was Wildflower at the masquerade as well?” She had to ask Linny. Wildflower. Look at them, using code names and all.

Abrazimir trailed behind as always, his eyes raising up to the top of the gatehouse where his deadly memories had taken place, during the Siege. Off deep in his own thoughts. He shuddered, and not from the cold.

Linny seemed to have spotted the young woman in question, standing off to the side looking like she was awaiting someone. Anyone else in a red cloak simply didn’t meet the description. Not anyone that Linny certainly wouldn’t be making clandestine arrangements with! Even if it was just archery lessons. ”Let’s go and find out.” Gaer suggested and arm linked with Linny, they approached the red cloaked woman.

”Hello!” Gaer greeted, taking the initiative as she was the older of the pair. ”Are you…sorry if this is strange, but are you Wildflower? I’m Swan and this is Nymph.” She introduced themselves by their own code names too from the previous night and if the introductions were true, then real names could follow.

[Rillewen]

@Lantaelen

Dulinneth & Erynneth
Dec 22 - first level
Meeting new friends

"Yes, she's the one I told you about," Linn answered. "Before we met Wist. She's the one who has her own horse," She grinned, and left out the bit about archery. But she had told Gaer about the girl with the horse who'd offered to teach them some about archery. Being aware of Abrazimir following just behind them, she wasn't really sure how they were going to achieve it without him finding out. She hadn't quite thought about that, and mentally she was trying to work it out.

As they approached the girl, Linn felt nervous. It didn't really look much like the girl she had spoken to at the masquerade... she'd long, dark hair and had a sort of elegant and proper air about her, and this girl had reddish hair. As they approached, Linn noticed she was wearing boots, like someone who might go roaming the woods or something.

As the pair of girls approached her, Eryn smiled in curiosity. Was that them? She had spoken to one girl, but she had mentioned bringing a friend. When the name 'Wildflower' came up, Eryn grinned. "I am!" She confirmed happily. Seeing each other without their disguises was a bit weird, but she recognized the younger of the two well enough. "Hi again! And, nice to meet you... Swan." She grinned in amusement at the masquerade names.

"Hi! You look so different!" Linn declared in surprise.

"Yeah.." Eryn ran a hand over her hair, a bit awkward. "I was trying to keep someone from recognizing me, so I had on a wig and everything."

Linn grinned. "I remember you mentioned something about that. This is my friend Gaer, that I told you about." She introduced 'Swan'. "And I'm actually called Linn." She added with a little giggle, remembering that they did not know their real names. "Oh, and this is Gaer's brother, Abrazimir," She added.

"Nice to meet you all!" Eryn declared, smiling with a polite nod to Gaer, and then to Abrazimir. "I'm Eryn." She looked at Gaer and Linn again. "Sorry I couldn't meet you earlier. I was already scheduled for a few hours' training at the houses of healing, today." She explained. "I'm an apprentice there."

"You're a healer?" Linn asked, surprised.

Eryn nodded. "Yes.. well, an apprentice healer, anyway." She shrugged. "Have you two had a nice day? Did you explore the city?" She asked, curious what all they might done.

[Lantaelen]

@Rillewen

Lord Abrazimir Dimaethor & Lady Gaerlothriel Dimaethor
December 22nd, Marketplace, Minas Tirith, Gondor

Identities were confirmed and greetings exchanged between the three, with Gaer leaving Linny to do most of the talking at first since she knew Wildflower much better. She did humorously roll her eyes when Linny declared how different Wildflower looked. They had all been trying to conceal their identities during the masquerade, though some had more to hide than others, apparently.

Introductions were made. ”Gaerlothriel,” Gaer explained what her name was short for, when Linny introduced her, before pointing out Abrazimir in the back, who just gave a curt nod. ”Our chaperone.” Gaer added in a whisper. Wildflower introduced herself as Eryn, revealing she was an apprentice at the Houses of Healing. Another working girl! It was coming off as quite the cultural shock for the closeted noble girls of the provinces. The City was full of so much surprises like that.

”Oh, yes.” Gaer said about their day so far, and exploring the City. ”We had lunch on the parapets and then met with another friend. We did some shopping and went to the Hall of Songs too. We’re going to see the ballet in a couple of days. Have you ever been?” She inquired of Eryn.

”We should have stopped by the Houses of Healing too.” She added in an aside to Linny. It was an ancient and grandiose building, to say the least. And maybe they could apprentice too. As daughters of the Dunedain, it was a tradition of sorts to have some basic healing talents.

But she turned her attention quickly back to Eryn, and the original premise for meeting up with her. ”So Eryn, what do you like to do for fun?”

[Rillewen]

@Lantaelen

Dulinneth & Erynneth
Dec 22 - first level
Meeting new friends

"Pleased to meet you, Gaerlothriel," Eryn replied, smiling. She was a bit surprised as well as confused to hear the older girl explained that her brother was her chaperone. A chaperone? What for? But then, she figured, they were in a strange city, to them. Perhaps they had thought it would be unsafe to explore it alone. Eryn decided not to ponder on it too long.

"I'm actually named Dulinneth, but my friends call me Linn," The younger girl added to her previous introduction. "Which includes you." She added, smiling.

"Thanks," Eryn grinned. "Well, since we're giving the longer versions of our names, I suppose I should add that Eryn is short for 'Erynneth'. But hardly anyone calls me that." She added. "Unless I'm in trouble." She grinned jokingly. Listening to their day so far, she smiled. "That sounds like a lot of fun!" She often ate in the gardens of the houses of healing, during her lunch break, which overlooked the Pelennor. She often tried to spot the dairy farm from up there, but it was rather distant, being up so high.

When asked about the ballet, Eryn paused and blinked. "Ballet?" She shook her head. "No, I don't think I've ever even been to the hall of song, but I've passed by there plenty of times." She answered, then caught what Gaer said to Linn about how they should have gone to the houses of healing. "They have some lovely gardens," She mentioned. "You could probably come and look at those, but I'm pretty sure they don't allow tours in the healing areas, so I wouldn't come expecting to get to see much of the inside part, unless you're injured or sick." She warned, so they would not be disappointed if that's what they had in mind. "But, if you like, I could maybe show you around the gardens sometime." She smiled at the thought of getting to show the gardens off, even if it was wintertime. "It's much prettier in the spring, though."

Eryn smiled when Gaer asked about what she does for fun. "Well.. Linn and I were talking at the masquerade last night about riding horses." She answered. "But, it's a bit dark now, for that. I also practice my archery a lot, and I've been training with some other weapons." She explained. "And, I also like climbing trees, and running.."

"We were talking about archery, last night," Linn informed Gaer with a little grin of excitement. "She said we could come over and we could all do some shooting, if we like," She added in a whisper, although she was a little unsure how to deal with the fact that Abrazimir was there. Would he stop them from getting to participate in this? "But.. won't it be too dark for shooting?" Linn realized, frowning as she thought of that.

"No, not at all." Eryn assured her. "We have plenty of lanterns and things set up in the practice range. My father likes to practice at various times of day, including night, sometimes." She explained.

"Oh, interesting." Linn smiled and looked at Gaer. "What do you think?" She hesitated, unsure if Abrazimir would object to them going out to the girl's house. "We only got to do a little bit, a few months ago, and we'd like to learn more." She explained, to Eryn. "Ohhh, and then perhaps you could come with us to see the ballet, since you've never seen it!" She suggested eagerly. "It'll be a few days from now, so you don't have to decide right away." She hastened to add.

Eryn tilted her head. "I heard there's some sort of thing going on at the Hall of Song. Is that what you're talking about?"

"Yes, there's going to be a ballet show, and we're going to see it with our other new friend!" Linn answered excitedly. "We spent the morning with her, and she showed us around the Hall of Song, and taught us a little ballet and everything. Wist is going to be a dancer, so she knows all about that sort of thing."

"Really?" Eryn smiled a little, but with a slightly puzzled hint to it. "Did you say 'Wist'?" She asked curiously.

"Yes, she works at the Hall of Song." Linn answered. "And she's really good at dancing."

Eryn stared at her for a few seconds, her mind racing as she thought back to the last time she had heard that name. She only knew one other girl with that name, and the fact that she liked to dance... that seemed like too much of a coincidence. "Would that be short for.. Wisteria?" She asked, hoping the answer was yes.

Surprised, Linn nodded. "Yes, that's it. Do you know her?" Linn thought it seemed like a happy coincidence, if that were the case.

"I think I do," Eryn replied slowly, thoughtful. "At least, I used to know a Wisteria, and she loved dancing, but I thought she had gone to live somewhere else. You say she works at the Hall of Song?"

"That's right." Linn nodded, curious if it was the same one.

"Hm," Eryn made a mental note of that. She was half-tempted to go right now to the Hall of Song to see if she could see her, but she had also just come down from the sixth, and she wanted to get home. And, she didn't even know if the other girl would be working at the moment, anyway. Besides, if the other two girls were interested, then they could practice some shooting once they got to the farm. "Well... I'll think about that," She gave an answer to the suggestion. "Thank you for inviting me." She added. "But for now, what do you two think of trying out my archery range?" She asked with a little smile.

[Lantaelen]

@Rillewen

Lord Abrazimir Dimaethor & Lady Gaerlothriel Dimaethor
December 22nd, Marketplace, Minas Tirith, Gondor

Erynneth seemed such a lovely name to Gaer and the other girl was already seeming to be such a fun vibe, hurriedly drawing a giggle out of Gaer at her joke about trouble. Trouble, fun, different sides of the same coin, right? Eryn hadn’t been to the ballet before and Gaer cast Linny a quick look, wondering if her friend might be receptive to the idea of including Eryn in their group. So quick to trust! There wasn’t much they could have done at the Houses of Healing though besides a tour of the external gardens. Probably for the best. She didn’t want to be seen as being disruptive to the healers or patients.

Gaer’s eyes lit up with Eryn explained that she practiced archery, among some other weapons. Another woman skilled in the marital arts! Climbing trees though was…quirky, but still valid. But when Linny began to explain how she and Eryn discussed practicing archery last night at the masquerade, that they might come over and learn to shoot, Gaer was rapidly nodding her head along in agreement. ”I would very much like that. Could you really show us?” She said, less quiet than her friend, more careless about what bored Abrazimir might think, who had wondered off to look at some old inscription plate set near the grand gates of Minas Tirith. He wouldn’t mind, right? He better not mind!

But Linny had a valid point. Wasn’t it too dark? How would they see the targets, even at ten paces away at a beginner’s range? Luckily, Eryn had lots of lanterns and such at the practice range. Which brought up the next question…where was the practice range then? Back up into the City? ”I think we ought to go and try, if only for a little while. We’ll be in the City for some days longer too, we can always have a longer practice session during the day on another day…?” Gaer said, looking to Eryn about another time and date, if the other woman was free and available. And not put off by the two noblewomen and their amateur skills. ”Is it far from here, your range? It would not be a problem to you, right?” She inquired considerately. They could certainly pay too.

I heard there’s some sort of thing going on at the Hall of Song. Is that what you’re talking about?

”Yes!” Gaer answered, same as Linny, though she let her younger companion explain it to Eryn, along with mentioning Wisteria. Whom, much to Gaer’s surprise and astonishment, Eryn knew as well! Gaer’s mouth dropped in astonishment at the coincidence and exchanged a glance with Linny. It sounded like they were speaking of the same Wisteria. ”She has light brown hair, like Linny…” Gaer also pointed out, as if that might jog Eryn’s memory a bit more. ”She is a great dancer and she had lunch with us and went shopping with us earlier today. You two met before? Small world, huh.” She commented with a smile. What a happy coincidence all around then. If it was the same girl. They would all find out in a day or two’s time.

But yes, they ought to be moving on from here. ”Yes, lead on. If it’s not too much trouble, Erynneth.” Gaer joked and put her hand on Linny’s elbow to nudge her forward, while sharing a knowing look with her companion. I’ll talk to the brooding presence and shadow behind us… She gestured to Abrazimir to catch her brother’s attention, who came over as the girls made ready to exit the City.

”Hey, so…um…” Gaer started awkwardly, ”our friend Eryn is going to take us to her home and we’re going to learn some archery and bow skills. I hope you don’t mind-“

”Archery?” Abrazimir exclaimed with a quirked eyebrow.

”Y-Yes. Archery. Just some simple shooting and practice. Don’t! Tell father and mother, okay?” Gaer implored him, knowing it was not exactly proper to be learning such a skill. Especially from another woman. But that wasn’t actually an issue here. Abrazimir though kept looking at her all funny like and Gaer felt her heart drop. Oh no, this was much worse. He was not going to tattle or refuse them. Oh, not that. He was…going to make fun of them.

”I mean, I won’t tell them,” Abrazimir answered incredulously, ”but…archery, really?” He was a knight. He was used to get face first with the opponent. Archery was for…let’s just say less valourous inclined individuals.

”Look, can you just come and chaperone and not make a fuss? Please?” Gaer said, shaking his arm, which made him sigh and roll his eyes and gesture his assent, which caused her to smile and race ahead, to join Linny and Eryn again while he followed, shaking his head. Archery? Really?

She caught up with Linny and Eryn, careful not to run too fast and slip on any ice. In front of her friends and brother and all the gate guards? She could never come back after that embarrassment! ”Let’s go! I hope you don’t mind if my brother accompanies us. He…doesn’t want any lessons. He just has to make sure we get home safely after but he’ll stay out of the way.” She explained nervously, hoping the presence of their chaperone wouldn’t be a cloud on their slated activities for this evening. But she gave Linny a knowing smile. They were in the clear.

”You have a home on the Pelennor then or is that just where you work?” She inquired of Eryn as they were led on to the range.

[Rillewen]

@Lantaelen

Dulinneth & Erynneth
Dec 22 - first level
Meeting new friends

"Of course," Eryn answered, when asked if she could really show them. "My dad and I have been teaching my six-year-old cousin how to shoot. I started learning when I was about ten." She smiled reassuringly. "It's really not hard."

"We did a little bit, a few months ago," Linn mentioned. "But it wasn't much, and we don't really get to keep at it."

"Well, I practice for as long as I can, each day. You two are both welcome to join me for as long as you're in town." Eryn told them, but cast a brief glance toward the other girl's 'chaperone'. "As long as that's alright with your families," She added, unsure quite how this whole thing was supposed to work. She'd never really met anyone who had to have a chaperone follow them around everywhere.

When Gaer asked if her range was very far, Eryn smiled. "No, not too far. My father and I built it together." She grinned. "It started as one little target, which I named 'Mr Orc'. But, now that my cousin has started learning to shoot too, he wanted to add more things, like a dragon and stuff. So, now.. it's a bit more like a range." She explained.

"A dragon?" Linn widened her eyes. "That sounds interesting!"

Eryn grinned. "I thought so, too. And no, it's not a problem at all." She answered Gaer. "I did invite you," she reminded her.

Everything they said about Wisteria sounded like the same girl she had known, years ago. Eryn nodded thoughtfully, making up her mind that she would go try and find her, first chance she got. Tomorrow, maybe. She could hardly believe it, but who else would it be? It would be nice to catch up with her old friend, and find out what was going on with her these days. How had she ended up back in Minas Tirith, after all this time?

As Gaer stepped over to speak with her brother, Eryn paused to wait for the other girl, and she couldn't help but hear a bit of what was said between them. What was that about? He didn't approve of archery? Eryn glanced at Linn with a slightly questioning look, but the other only shrugged. When Gaer hurried to catch up, she didn't have far to go. Eryn nodded when she mentioned her brother. "Of course." She agreed. "My father, aunt, and uncle will be there." She assured her, then looked at Abrazimir. "Perhaps you and my father would like to meet." She had a guess that the man was some sort of warrior, based on the sword he carried and all. "If you don't mind him telling stories about being a ranger," she added with a little smile to her new friends. "He's one of the best archers there is." Of course, she might be a bit biased.

She started down the lane, hoping her new friends would not mind coming to the farm. In fact, she paused after passing the gates. "Oh, I live on the Pelennor," she answered Gaer's question. "In fact, I should probably warn you, I live on a dairy farm. My aunt and uncle run it, and my father and I live there." She paused. "I hope you aren't opposed to going to a farm, or.. well, near cows." She wasn't sure if she would have to explain that cows could be rather smelly, and there was a good chance of stepping in something if they happened to wander off of the path.

"I love animals!" Linn declared, excited at the prospect. "I don't think I've ever been up close to a cow. Can you pet them?"

Eryn laughed, a bit amused by that. "Sure. We also milk them. And there's a dog, too, you'll like Hattie, if you like animals." She grinned, then glanced toward Gaer and her brother, unsure how they each might react to the thought of going to a dairy farm. At least Linn seemed not to mind, but would Gaer? And even if she was fine with it, would her brother refuse?

[Lantaelen]

@Rillewen

Lord Abrazimir Dimaethor & Lady Gaerlothriel Dimaethor
December 22nd, Marketplace, Minas Tirith, Gondor

All this talk of Mr. Orc and dragons had Gaer giddy with excitement. It sounded like something out of a legend or myth. Or very recent history for this City at least. She didn’t have anything to add as Linny momentarily mentioned their brief practice a few months ago. And how eventful that whole ordeal had been. But this time would be different. Eryn presented herself like a willing and capable tutor and the opportunity to learn properly was tremendous.

Abrazimir was not opposed to the girls learning archery, to any basic degree. A part of him wondered though if the girls parents might have some protestations though. Where Gaer was concerned, he could cover for her and ensure his parent’s trust due to his ‘supervision’. But for Dulinneth? He didn’t know if he had that sort of influence or trust with her parents. They might severely disapprove of her learning. But if it were entirely up to him, he’d say…let them go at it! The teacher, Eryn, seemed competent from her regaling of her private range.

And Eryn was kind to offer some activity for him to do. Her father, a former Ranger, might have some interesting anecdotes about the War. He just returned a nod of acknowledgement to Eryn about meeting her family. Lead on. In truth, he had been expecting to just be sitting there off to the side, minding his own business. He had a lot to think about anyways, especially regarding a certain note he received today, and a secretive yet brief meeting with a formidable lady.

Farm environs and animal husbandry were not unknown to Gaer or her family. The Dimaethor estates were not as populous or urbane as their neighbours, and within the castle town of her familial keep was often an abundance of local farmers, shepherds, and other rural folk attempting to sell their wares in the marketplace, as from there it could be taken by ship to other ports in Gondor, all apart of a robust and expansive economic trade structure. Cattle, goats, horses were all commonplace. And her family owned their fair share of herds too, as wealth manifested itself in more than just coin. They just never let her around it. Not appropriate stuff for the hands of a daughter of nobility to be interacting with. Or archery. But who was really around to enforce those customs? Abrazimir was agreeable to them going.

”Not opposed at all.” Gaer answered, rejoining the others. They would soon passing under the gate and into the cultivated fields of the Pelennor. ”Just means we have a cup of milk readily at hand if we want.” She beamed with her jest. She enjoyed milk and didn’t care if that made her akin to a feline. Like Linny though she had never been allowed up close to a cow though. And to pet one? Linny had the right idea. And Eryn seemed to find that very amusing.

And…there was also a dog! Hattie. Gaer made a little squeal of excitement. They got to handle bows, shoot at target, pet cows, and there was a dog? This day just continued to elevate and get better. ”Let’s get going. We’re so grateful to you for taking us on like this. I do hope your uncle and aunty won’t mind. If there’s anything we can do to help make us more tolerable, let us know.” Gaer said, wanting to be as courteous as their gracious host was.

”Do you name the cows as well?” Was the next, natural inquiry, as the three girls and their chaperone made their way out of Minas Tirith and onto the main road that ran right to Osgiliath, and the crossroads beyond. Along this ancient and royal road, to a new friend’s house, for an evening of fun and activity!

[Exit to the Pelennor Fields]

[Ercassie]

@Rillewen* @Pele Alarion*

Iole Ishen and Gildolen Lhacrist
Sharing a private moment, at ‘Needful Things’ store. Morning of Dec 31st
until they are interrupted by Domanol, with Seri, Brooke and Aislin.

The valet had not questioned quite what had brought him there, besides the obvious temptation of a certain lovely young shopkeeper. He had eagerly agreed to walk Seri, Brooke and Aisln down to the Guards HQ, just as he had walked them home from the theatre the night before. And, back in Dol Amroth, there were countless reasons why an unmarried woman and her younger female relatives would be granted a watchful escort when out about the town. Customs which he had honestly not expected to see adopted by the Breefolk, but perhaps the Belfalasian folk were having an effect on them. Gwestion had accompanied the two young girls about town a few days before, but neither he nor Gladhron had been seen since they set out for the theatre the previous night. Claery had of course shared that a messenger had come that next morn, from the Houses of Healing, so that did not bode altogether well as to the brothers’ absence. But Gildolen was professional enough to neither really pay much heed to the chatty maid, nor intrude unto their guests’ business.

He had let Seri know that he would be stopping by Lady Azrubel’s shop, before returning to the Fifth Circle. Just in case she had further need of him. Though it had been suggested by the Gate guard, that Domanol would meet the women from Guard Hq and mind them home after. Regardless, Gil had let most of that slip from thoughts, as soon as he entered the lady’s shop, and found the fetching young woman who he had managed to take out for dinner. At least once. Well, she had agreed to meet him at a place where she had already intended to eat dinner. But still, they had dined there together, they had shared something of one another, they had even danced, and so he counted the night at the Guesthouse a success. Now, a few days later, he was keen to step up his campaign to properly court Iole. Providing she would let him.


“Who told you ?” Iole’s frown was not entirely convincing that she was pleased at Gil’s endeavours this morning. “It was Nal, wasn’t it ?” she sighed, blowing hair out of her eyes, whilst pretending to read the empty pages of the logbook.

“I heard that you had made request for that particular day off from working here,” he explained. Without citing sources, or how intently he overheard any news from their mutual employer, about the shop where Iole was assigned. “And Unalmis had made mention that your birthday was upcoming ..” he confessed however. Unable to deny anything in the face of those bright blue eyes. And Iole let her suspicious countenance fall into a knowing expression of ‘Ahah !’ “I made an educated guess.” her admirer filled in the blanks, accounting of his having done so.


“I do not know,” she was forced to concede then, dipping her quill repeatedly in the ink pot, without any thought on why, beyond idle distraction. “Noone has mentioned any plans.” Though her birthday was not very long after Cali(and Ryn)’s, Iole was used to a far less ‘excitable’ occasion than the twins. Most years she had simply enjoyed a nice dinner with her parents, all dressed up, even her mother ... But her parents were living out in Pelargir still, for her mother’s health. And Iole had no expectations that she would see her real family on the day, this time. She certainly was not of a mind to venture out to the more coastal city. “What did you have in mind ?” she wondered then, of her recent stalker. A question she might never have even entertained until a few night’s before. But since they’d covered the cause of how they each knew a certain, mutual foe, .. she was more convinced than before that Gil could be trusted. And then he voiced his idea, and the young woman’s heart sank.

“I heard about a lake out on the Pelennor, which is that surrounded by trees still it remains frozen over, by ice. Having made a few enquiries, I thought, we could venture out that way, and enjoy a little ice skating,” the young man’s eyes watched her’s as ever, without blinking. And held his breath for the usual amount, as the young woman considered the risks of his proposal.


“I have never ice skated before,” Iole admitted, in a small voice, rather than say outright that she did not know how. It was implied. And dark hair slipped over one shoulder, as Gil dared a foot closer, and took his eyes down to find her troubled gaze.

“I will teach you,” he vowed. “And I wouldn’t let you come to any harm. Lord Estennin used to take Lady Gaelanna up to holiday in the foot of the mountains, and there was a lot of such recreation there. I promise, I know what I’m doing.

'Where frost has seen the peaceful waters to a flawless show
and trees bear icy crystals to adorn, where breezes blow
I dream of a queen spinning all majestic, in the snow ..”


“Oh,” Iole did not mean to respond vocally, but found that Gil’s verse drew the brief emission out of her all the same. He knew what he was doing alright ! What a magical, romantic scene he had just conjured. The notion was already beginning to win her over .. despite the danger and the anticipated cold ..

“Your family are of course, more than welcome, to accompany us,” the Belfalasian leant further encouragement, to try and entice her. “If that should make you feel more ..comfortable,” he supposed. Not taking any offence at the idea of company, for that would be only proper of course.


Iole was still resting her teeth on her lower lip, in quiet contemplation, when company came in through the shop door, surprising them both. *

“Iole, Gildolen,” Domanol urged Brooke and Aislin inside, even as he loitered about the front step, with Seri. “Would you do me the grandest of all favours, and show the girls around the shop ?” he encouraged, without subtlety. “It is a very unusual shop,” he told the girls then, indicating all the empty shelves. “We’ll be back soon and we can all walk back up together, if that suits ?” he imagined, before disappearing, his hand in the healer’s.

A half moment later, the man threw his head back through the door and punctuated the awkward silence with a further word. “Don’t leave here, or go wandering off around the market, will you ? Not even if someone invites you. Unless it is us, ..” he frowned, and faltered until GiI managed a stiff nod of his head. The valet did not wish to think much on why the Ranger of the North would be hurrying off, or where, with the Bree Healer. Iole was already blushing.

“We’ll be across the street,” As eager to go as he was loath to depart, Domanol managed to point out through the window, towards his brother’s shop.

---

Addhor Raxëlilta and Narradir Korsey
Unloading a delivery at ‘Wood Works’ Shop. Morning of Dec 31st.
until they too are interrupted by Domanol, now with just Seri

“Well, you remember how he is,” Narradir sighed. “And it's not like he was actually invited to come.” Heaving up another plank of timber, the forester eased it off the back of the wagon, and into the shop, while his friend held the door wide open for him.

“I am still having trouble with the part where Serenda hasn't kicked him out yet,” Addhor admitted.

A massive ‘thunk’ accompanied the timber to the counter, where it was deposited none too delicately. “Something about setting an example for the girls ? Family is unconditional, and all that,” Narry reasoned. “You're right, and she's right. But I'm stuck in the middle as usual. Same as every time he shows up.” The large man shook his head, atypically sober.

“I'm all out of clever ways to manage troublesome houseguests,” the carpenter sighed, without quite voicing aloud how close he’d come to killing his brother in the last few months. “Maybe we should send Dom over to yours,” he contemplated though, taking a hand slowly along the delivered wood, in a half inspection. As though he even needed to. His friend and partner was a guaranteed and trustworthy provider of materials for their business. "He's seen me half wishing I could leave my own home more than once of late. Maybe he'll see your father off."

“We could always do a swop,” his friend considered in turn. “I'd rather take Dom for a houseguest, any day of the week !” the forester made clear.


Addhor's unpredictable houseguest chose that particular moment to make a usually spontaneous entrance. “You are back then,” the elder mentioned, as his younger brother edged through between the delivery, one hand keenly trying to bring Seri along with him. Domanol did not let go of his love's hand for even a moment. And took immediately to the stairs, and up to his brother’s residence above, towing his company with him out of sight.

“What’s that all about now ?” Narry scratched his jaw with one hand, while his hands were both otherwise unburdened.

“I am not sure that I want to know,” Addhor sighed halfheartedly, rather than even try to explain what he did not understand himself. A different guest that his brother was sneaking in upstairs this time, mere hours after the last.

Whatever Domanol finally got a chance to speak privately about with Seri, he managed to do so with no concern that anybody might now overhear them. Not over the gusto of the forester’s booming laugh downstairs. His friend's account of domestic chaos at least able to take Narradir's mind off his own, for a time.

[Rillewen]

(Solo post - private)

|
Trastion | Eryn
January 2nd, afternoon
At a pawn shop

After spending a few minutes tending to the horses left in his care, Trastion set off toward the market to see if he wasn't too late to buy a few apples and carrots for his new charges. He was pleased to be able to get a whole bag of apples and an entire bunch of carrots. And he was heading back when he caught a glimpse of Eryn, turning down another street. That was perfect timing, since he needed to ask her something. So, he turned down the street and hurried to catch up with her. "Eryn," He called, nearing her as she stopped to look at something in the window of a shop.

She was getting a bit desperate. It had been nearly two weeks since the masquerade, and she had still not found the necklace she'd lost. Eryn was getting pretty worried about that. Then, it had occurred to her that if someone had found it, maybe they had decided to sell it instead of turning it over to the tavern staff, in case the rightful owner came to claim it. Not everyone was honest, after all, she realized. So, over the past few days she'd been looking around the city for the type of places where such an item might end up, and today's searching had yielded a pawn shop, in a less populated corner of the marketplace. Eryn stood outside, looking at the things on display in the windows before going in, when she heard a familiar voice hailing her. She looked up, recognized Trastion, and smiled. "Hey, Trastion. What are you doing here?"

He shrugged and held up his produce. "Getting some treats for some horses," He grinned. "In fact, I was going to ask you for a favor," he added. "What are you doing here?"

"Oh?" She asked, turning to him. "I'm... looking for something," She explained, and motioned to the shop. "I need to go inside, but what favor?" She asked, motioning him to come along.

"In there?" Trastion was surprised, but he moved to open the door for her. "Well, you know Gladhron and Gwestion, the rangers from the north?"

"Yeah, I do know them." She glanced at him curiously as she went inside.

"Well, they're going out of town for a while," He explained, following her inside, then set his things down near the door so he wouldn't have to keep holding them, in case she was going to take a while. "And, I'm sure you know that Arnyn and several of the others are about to be out of town, too. So, I've been asked to take care of their horses." He explained. "Not all of them. Just Arnyn's, Gladhron's, and Gwestion's." He clarified.

"Oh, that sounds like fun." Eryn commented, taking a glance around the shop as she approached the counter.

"Sure, I guess," He answered, shrugging slightly as he ran a hand through his hair.

"Hang on a moment," She asked, as the shop keeper asked if he could help her. "Um, I was hoping to look at some jewelry, please? I didn't see any out on the shelves, though.."

"Ah, jewelry," The man smiled at the prospect of a possibly expensive sale, and pulled out a display case from under the counter. "All jewelry is kept locked up," He explained. "Take a look, miss. Let me know if you see anything you like."

"Thank you." She smiled, then glanced at Trastion. "So, you're taking care of horses?" She reminded him where he had been.

"Right. But that's three horses that I'm going to need to take out for rides, you know? And Arnyn said I could ask some other people to help me. And I know you like horses," He paused before continuing. "So, I was hoping you might be willing to help with that part."

"Riding horses?" She asked, brightening. "Absolutely!"

Trastion grinned at her enthusiasm. "I figured you'd like to help. Arnyn will be joining me tomorrow, but after that I need to get one more person to help." He explained, hoping to ask if she knew anyone who might be able to fill that spot.

"Alright." She nodded absently as she scanned the display case. And then, she stopped as she caught sight of a particular ring, and looked closer. "Wait... I've seen that before," She muttered to herself, frowning as she stared in surprise at the ring through the glass.

"What?" Trastion tried to look over her shoulder.

"Sir?" Eryn looked up at the shopkeeper. "Could I take a look at this ring, please?"

The man nodded and unlocked the case, carefully took out the ring and handed it to her, then he went back to dusting some cases down at the other end of the counter.

Eryn held it in her palm and turned it over, studying it carefully. "I forgot the ring," She muttered to herself, realizing that in all the times she'd described the items she'd seen in that hiding spot, she'd forgotten to list this. It had slipped her mind until this moment, when she saw it again.

"What ring?" Trastion asked, a bit puzzled. "Is this what you came here to look for?" He wondered, curious what this could have

"No," She answered absently. "But I've seen this before." She declared, turning to Trastion, her eyes widening a little, the ring still in her palm.

Curious, he picked up the ring and examined it himself. "Looks like a signet ring," He commented, holding back a sigh as he wish he hadn't lost his. This one wasn't it, for while it did bear a tree, the emblem wasn't quite the right one. Still, he didn't quite recognize the emblem on this one, so he couldn't be sure which of the noble families this had come from. That was little surprise though, since his brother had been the one to do most of the studying in that stuff, not him.

"A signet ring? You mean like noblemen use?" Eryn asked in surprise.

"Yeah, I think," Trastion realized maybe he shouldn't have identified it that easily. "I mean, it kinda looks like one, but you'd probably have to ask a noble to be sure." He shrugged and handed it back to her.

Eryn paused, then smiled at Trastion. "I just happen to know one."

Trastion tilted his head questioningly, while his pulse sped up a bit in concern. She didn't mean... surely, she wasn't referring to him?

Eryn looked back down at the signet ring, wondering if her dad's friend was back in town yet. "I'll have to check if he's back in town, though," She frowned and turned back to the shopkeeper. "Sir?" She called his attention back over. "How much for this ring?"

Trastion breathed easier once she made it clear that she was referring to someone else. Fortunately, she was no longer looking at him, so he was out of danger of her noticing any such reaction.

When she heard how much the man was charging for the ring, Eryn blinked. "Right. Um," She placed it back in the case carefully. "Is there anyway you could hold that for me? I don't have that much money.. with me," She explained. "But I know someone who I think will be very interested in it, so I really want to buy it."

"I can set it back until tomorrow," He assured her. "But not much longer."

"Thank you." Eryn smiled in relief, then thought of something else. "Could you tell me who sold it to you, by the way?"

The man paused and glanced at the young man, then at the girl, as if checking if she was serious. "I suppose I could check the records," He agreed after a moment.

"Please." Eryn nodded insistently. "Who knows, maybe my friend had to sell it for some reason, and I could get it back to him," She said to Trastion with a little smile.

Trastion folded his arms curiously as he wondered what exactly she was really up to, but he nodded and went along with her game. Because, from what he could tell, it was some sort of 'game'.

The shopkeeper pulled out a book of sales records and flipped through it until he located it. "Ah, yes, I remember this fellow." He declared. "Lieutenant Feirion sold me the ring." He informed her. "He was even still in uniform."

"Really?" Eryn was surprised as well as confused by that answer, but she made it sound like she was surprised in a different way; as if this had confirmed what she had already suspected. "I bet he hated having to part with it." She said sympathetically. "Poor guy, having to sell his cherished ring. Please, tell me this is the only thing he had to part with?" She said with sympathy. "I'd hate to think that he had to sell anything else out of his collection..."

The shopkeeper looked at the bill of sale. "Ah, there was also a dagger," He informed her.

"A dagger..?" Eryn didn't even have to see it to know exactly which dagger that was. She thought fast, glancing at Trastion. Who.. didn't know what was going on. She didn't have time to explain to him, but she hoped he would just play along. She turned back to the shopkeeper. "I can't believe he'd part with that dagger. Surely, not the one I think you mean?" She sounded shocked.

"Hm, I have it right here, if you'd like to see?" The shopkeeper went to another display case that Eryn hadn't noticed, and withdrew a dagger, which he carefully laid on the table.

Eryn caught her breath as soon as she saw it. She'd recognize that dagger anywhere. She turned to Trastion. "That's the one I thought it was." She informed him softly, briefly forgetting he had no idea what all this was about. She turned back to the shopkeeper. "Will you hold that, too?" She asked. "Please?"

"Well... I suppose so," He agreed, though a bit reluctantly. "They have been here for a while now, and no one has bought them."

"Thank you, so much! I can't believe you still have them after all this time!" She paused. "Wait, how long have those things even been here?" She asked in amazement.

"Hm," He checked the bill of sale. "Since September, miss. The young man came in on the second. But, are you sure he is going to want these items back?" He asked skeptically.

"Oh, yes, absolutely." She insisted. Young man? She remembered Uncle Dom speaking about that Lieutenant Feirion. He was an old guy, way older than her dad and uncle Dom. Like, old enough to be their dad or something, she thought.

"Why do you ask, sir?" Trastion wondered, having caught onto the fact that Eryn was doing some sort of investigation, though he didn't know yet what it was about.

"Well, it's just that.. I remember this sale," The shopkeeper answered. "The lieutenant seemed quite eager to be rid of these items. Said that they had been 'cluttering up his house' and he didn't need them anymore. He didn't even make a counter-offer, like I expected. He agreed the moment I offered a price for everything. Signed the bill without hestitation."

Eryn paused and glanced at Trastion, then back to the man. She leaned over the counter to look at the bill of sale, catching a look at the signature before the man, disapproving of the girl 'spying' on his paperwork, closed the book. The signature was quite sloppy, she noticed, as if the guy had trouble holding the pen steady. "Well... lieutenant Feirion, you said?" When he nodded, she continued, "The Feirion that I know would never willingly part with these items," She frowned thoughtfully. "Could there be two?" She wondered, looking in feigned surprise at Trastion. "You don't think someone stole these from his collection, do you?" She gasped. "What if that guy wasn't really lieutenant Feirion?"

"Ohhh, that's possible. What did this guy look like?" Trastion inquired, getting into the spirit of the investigating. Somehow, it was important to Eryn. He'd find out why, later. But, he recalled that there was something about September second that seemed significant, but it was escaping his memory at the moment.

The shopkeeper thought back, then offered a description as well as he remembered.

With every word, Eryn had to fight not to smile in satisfaction. Because that was definitely the man who had attacked her. His age, the beard, the fact that he'd been favoring one arm... everything fit. She also knew that that was not lieutenant Feirion, because he was old. But this guy had been wearing a guard uniform, so he must have changed.

She thought for a moment about how to proceed. "Well, if you're sure you will hold these items?" Eryn checked with the man, who nodded. "Then, I can go and check. And if it turns out that he really doesn't want them back, then.. oh well. But if he does, then they will still be here." She smiled. "Thank you. I'll be sure to come back as soon as possible. How late do you stay open?" Once she knew how long she had left, if she wanted to return this evening, Eryn thanked the guy again and prepared to leave.

"Did you find any other jewelry that interested you, miss?" He asked.

"Oh.. no," She said sadly. "Thank you, though. You've been very helpful, sir." She added, smiling again as she turned to Trastion, ready to go.

After retrieving his apples and carrots, Trastion held open the door for her again as they left, out of an ingrained habit from back home. Once they were outside again, he raised an eyebrow. "Has Kaylin been tutoring you or something?" He asked with a little grin.

Eryn paused, then smiled. "Maaaybe." She teased. "Thanks, by the way. Sorry, I didn't have a chance to explain, but... wow! I can't believe it!"

"I take it those things are important?" He guessed, walking along with her as they headed toward more a populated street. "What was all that about?"

"Important? That's an understatement!" She turned to him, eyes wide. "I have to talk to Arnyn!"

Trastion frowned. "Sorry, but you'll have to wait on that. She's not in the city, and she probably won't be back until tomorrow, or maybe late tonight."

"Aw. Too bad," She frowned, but then brightened. "Oh, but you said she'll be joining you for the ride? And I'm invited, right?"

"Yes, we have a third horse that needs to be ridden." he nodded.

"Great. In the meanwhile," She thought for a moment. "I need to find out if my father's friend is back from his trip, yet. That's on the fifth circle.. and maybe after that, I should see if Cali's still at the forge..."

"I'm going up to the sixth. I'll walk with you." Trastion offered, as those ingrained gentleman manners again inserted themselves. To let a young lady walk around in the city alone, after dark? Unheard of. Even if it was the tough girl Eryn.

"Thank you, Trastion." Eryn smiled gratefully at him. Not that she felt like she needed an escort, but it was nice of him, anyway. "But only if you let me help you carry those." She added, nodding to his load of produce. "And I might have to insist that you let me meet those horses you mentioned," She added with a grin.

He laughed and offered her the bunch of carrots, which was the lighter of the two. "Thanks." He shifted the bag of apple so he could carry them more easily, now that he didn't have the carrots to worry about. "So, what's all that about, anyway?" He asked as they started up toward the fifth level.

[Rillewen]

(Private/Solo)

|
Amy & Sofia Nerennia
2nd level, Minas Tirith Market
May of 3018
(continued from here)

"This isn't fair." Sofia pouted.

Amy sighed, turning to face her sister. It had taken them a while to ride back from Pelargir, but during that ride, Amy had reached a decision. She hoped to find someone with whom she could make some arrangement, who would be willing to give Sofia a job and a place to stay. It occurred to her that her sister might learn to be more responsible if she took on a job. Their mother had always spoiled her and indulged her more than Amy thought she should have, and Amy felt that the girl had never really learned to be responsible as she should be. Maybe it was time to change that.

"What's not fair?" Amy demanded, folding her arms as she faced Sofia.

"You're making me get a job, so you can run off and explore." Sofia complained. "Why can't you just let me come with you? I promise I wouldn't get into more trouble. It isn't fair."

Amy took one slow, deep breath. "No, Sofia." She disagreed. "What isn't fair, is that Momma got sick and died. What's not fair, is that I suddenly have to take care of you, and now I have a responsibility that I never expected to have. What isn't fair is that we don't even have a father to help with any of this... What isn't fair.. is my fiancé being missing.. and now I have to decide whether to search for him or..." She stopped abruptly as she felt a lump swell up in her throat. She turned away and wrapped her arms tight around herself, struggling not to start crying.

Sofia stared in surprise as her usually tough sister seemed ready to break into tears. "Alright, I'm sorry, Amy." She put her arms around her. "I'm sorry."

With a quiet sniffle, Amy turned to her with a weak smile. "I know none of that is your fault." She assured her softly. "I'm sorry. It's just..." She sighed. "I just wanted to be a healer. I hated having to leave my training to go look for him. But.." She hesitated. "Sof, I'm scared." She admitted softly. "I'm afraid I won't ever find him again. And I can't bear the thought of it. I love him so much. And I know, if it was the other way around, he'd stop at nothing to search for me." Her hand closed around the ring she wore on a chain around her neck, tears brimming in her eyes. "I just.. I need you to be safe here, so I won't be worried about you while I'm out looking for him."

"I understand." Sofia answered quietly. "Don't worry about me. I can take care of myself. I did for months while you were gone, remember?"

Amy scoffed. "Yeah, you ran out of food and had no money left to buy more." She rolled her eyes. "Sorry, but I'd rather not come home to find my sister has starved to death." She shook her head and started toward one of the shops. "I'll get you situated with a job."

At last, Amy found a shop selling clothing that was willing to give Sofia. Her job would consist of keeping the shop tidy; sweeping and dusting, keeping the clothing arranged neatly on the racks, and helping customers find whatever they might be seeking. Amy felt a sense of relief at having found a simple, easy enough job that Sofia shouldn't have much problem with. With her wages, she would be able to make enough to support herself, and the lady in charge of the shop promised Amy that she would kind of keep a motherly eye on the girl, and help to guide her as much as she could as Sofia learned to take care of herself. Thus, Amy felt relieved to know that her sister would be in good care, and therefore she needn't worry about leaving her for extended periods while traveling.

---

It wasn't a hard job, really. Sofia didn't even mind the job all that much. Her problem was the clothing. There were so many pretty things! Far too often, she ended up trying on the fancy dresses and modeling for herself in front of the mirror, admiring the way she looked dressed in luxurious fabric that she could not afford to wear for real. Far too often, her boss would catch her smuggling a dress or two off toward a dressing rooms. Or she would notice that Sofia wasn't anywhere on the sales floor when a customer needed help or something, because she was busy trying on the pretty dresses.

"Sofia," Mrs Delu sighed as she caught the girl once again sneaking a dress off to the back.

"I'm not gonna hurt it," Sofia insisted.

"That's not the point. These are for the customers," She liberated the dress from Sofia's arms. "You can't keep doing this."

"Well, I don't have anything that pretty." Sofia pouted.

"I told you that if you wanted one, I could save out a bit of your paycheck each week until it was paid for."

"But then I wouldn't have as much to spend on other things." Sofia frowned. "Why can't you just let me wear one while I'm here, working? It would help show off the work!"

"I'm sorry, Sofia," Mrs Delu sighed. "This just.. isn't working out. I really tried.. but this is the seventeenth reprimand you've had in the three weeks you've been working for me."

"Fine," Sofia grumbled. "I'll try not to do it anymore."

"No..." The lady gave a sympathetic shake of her head. "You don't understand. I mean... I think it would be best if you found another job."

"But I like this one."

"I'm glad to hear that, but.. as I said, it isn't working out."

Sofia was a little stunned, because.. well, she had just sort of assumed that she wouldn't fire her. "Wait... you mean, you're firing me? I thought you promised my sister-"

"I've tried my best to help you, Sofia," Mrs Delu insisted. "You just aren't trying very hard in return. I'm running a shop here, and I need my employees to follow instructions. And you don't. I've told you repeatedly to stop trying on the dresses, and you continue to do it."

"But.." Sofia stared at her. "What'll I do?"

"Perhaps you would be better off in the orphanage," The lady suggested as kindly as she could. "They take care of children without parents, if they have no one else."

"Are you nuts?" Sofia scowled. "I'm not going there. And I'm not a child, anyway." She huffed, then gathered up whatever things were hers. "Fine, whatever. I'll find another job." She declared before storming out of the shop.

Hopefully, Amy wouldn't find out she'd gotten fired. Sofia had no idea what other job she could get, but she realized by now that she did need one. Because she couldn't rely on her sister to take care of her, as she once thought. So she wandered around the marketplace for a couple of days, asking around at different places. But no one was interested in hiring her, or else she wasn't interested in whatever job was available.

After many days of fruitless searching, someone recommended that she apply for an open position at a place called the Seven Bells Inn. She'd never heard of it before, but figured she might see if they needed someone to clean rooms or whatever. When she came to apply, however, she was surprised to find that it was a much more exciting job, and therefore she was very happy when they decided to hire her. Now, with any luck, she could keep her sister from knowing that she was working at that place, instead of the boring clothing shop. And since Amy would be gone for a long time, she figured it shouldn't be hard to keep her from finding out...


(end of that solo story)

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

|
Trastion | Eryn
January 2nd, late afternoon/early evening
A pawn shop located in a back street
Continued from here

As the trio approached the store, and Eryn declared "Here's the place", Trastion deliberately let his own pace slow as well. Because his first instinct had been to step ahead of her to get the door, out of habit. Anurion would have held the door, not just for the young lady, but for everyone in the group, before following through after them. But he was conscious of who was with them, and he didn't want any of his speech or actions to give Lord Himhathol the impression that he may have had.. the sort of upbringing that he'd had. So, he hung back just enough that it (hopefully) wouldn't appear deliberate.

Eryn was more focused on mentally coaching herself on not appearing too eager or anxious about the dagger and ring, while also feeling eager to show Macardil, and anxious that they might be gone, despite the shop keeper's promise to hold the items until tomorrow. And despite his assurance that they hadn't sold in the five or so months they'd been there, so far. Still, she couldn't help worrying. So, she took a slow breath to calm herself before entering the shop, and she managed to look much more relaxed than she felt as she stepped inside.

The shopkeeper was busy dusting a display of glass things in one corner of the shop, but the little bell over the door alerted him to the entrance of customers, so he abandoned his dusting, and came back to the counter. Recognizing Eryn and Trastion, he gave a polite little smile before looking curiously at the man who had joined them, now. "Good afternoon. You've returned quicker than I expected." He greeted them.

[Rillewen]

(Private - solo thing)

Aderic Androllius with Winyára
January 31st, Fourth Age
Marketplace Livery Stable - Late Evening

He was never permitted to walk anywhere alone, these days. It was a strange thing, after spending most of his life alone in most things that he did. But the thing he found the most difficult, was keeping his face hidden whenever he went into the streets, into public. Trying to avoid the high-traffic times of day, avoiding people as much as possible. It was easy enough to wrap up his face... now, at least. As long as the temperatures remained cold. But he was wondering how much longer the weather would continue to provide him with a convenient excuse to keep his face covered. What would he do when spring came?

At least, as of this morning, he had obtained permission to visit the stable. That was a great relief to Ric. He walked slowly alongside the guard who accompanied him everywhere these days, keeping his hands tucked under his arms, his scarf wrapped up to just below his eyes, with a hood pulled down to his eyebrows. He kept his gaze down, which was easy enough. It was a good idea to keep eyes upon the cobblestones, to watch for icy patches and such. Especially after dark, as it was now. Most everyone else in the city had already withdrawn into their homes to sit down to a warm supper, and whatever else their evening routines composed of.

Ric, inwardly aware that his trip to the stables was likely an inconvenience to his companion, kept quiet and said nothing as they entered the stable, most often used by merchants and shopkeepers who had need of horses to pull carts and such. There were a few others who kept horses there, and Ric was one of them. Reilly had also been one such individual. It was convenient, since their apartment had been here on the second level as well.

The air in the stable was warmer than outside, thankfully. Ric stopped and took a moment to look around. He hadn't been here since he left the city, months ago. Lady was not here, unfortunately. But her stall remained empty, because back in the early summer, almost a month before he'd taken leave of the city, Ric had paid for her boarding for a year in advance. Same with Winyára, Reilly's horse. It was to her stall that Ric went, now. In the years since his friend's disappearance, he had taken over caring for the mare. Reilly had cared greatly for her, and Ric tried to give her the best care that he could. He took the same care of her that he did his own horse. Before, he had always entertained the hope that Reilly would be found one day, and that he would be pleased that his friend had kept such good care of her. Now, of course... he knew that would not happen.

After a look around to make sure that the stable was empty, his guard escort having stationed himself by the door, Ric took off the scarf. He could breathe a little better without it, and he gladly draped it over the top of the stall door. "Hi Winnie," He smiled softly as he held out his hand to let her sniff him and recognize him. "Did you miss me?" He wondered, actually, if anyone ever really missed him. Even the horse. He hadn't really done a lot of riding on her, as he had Lady. Part of her boarding had included a small extra fee, which ensured she was exercised regularly by the staff here, since Ric had often not had much time to do so.

Sighing softly, he leaned his forehead against her shoulder and put his arms around her neck. He knew that she could not understand his words if he tried to tell her that Reilly would never return, but the thought of breaking such sad news to her hit him. He wondered if the horse had always known it.. had she witnessed something? Or had she, in her horse mind, had been wondering whatever became of her owner?

Winyára turned her head around to nuzzle his side. Ric let out a soft, brief laugh as he realized she was searching for a treat. Of course. He always brought a treat, didn't he? He rubbed her neck for a moment with one hand, reaching into his pocket with the other. "Yes, here you go. Sorry, I forgot." He apologized, holding his hand still while she grabbed the carrot pieces with her lips.

While she was munching on the carrot, Ric absently began braiding her pale mane. By the time he had finished, she had a running braid going all the way down her neck, ending with a thin little 'tail' braid at the withers. He left the end unsecured, and figured that by the time he saw her again, she'd have worked most of it out. Or else, the stable staff might brush it out. He wasn't sure.

After visiting with the horse for a while, Ric figured he ought to turn his attention to the actual reason he had come here. "Bye, Winnie. I'll try to come back again, soon." He promised, scratching the side of her nose one last time. Then, he went to the tack room. Winyára's saddle, bridle, and reins were all in their appropriate spots, but there was also a small bookshelf in there, containing all the paperwork regarding each horse who lived there. These contained records of various types, beginning with the form that the owner would have to fill out before beginning a long-term boarding here, and it would also include information that the horse's owner, or the stable staff might need to refer to, like when a farrier was scheduled, and whether the horse had any medical issues, if an animal healer had to come and check on them, and so on.

Ric found Winyára's file, looking through it, flipping back to the beginning. There, behind the form that Reilly had filled out when he first put Winyára in this stable, was another form. One that did not belong here, but which had been stowed here for safe-keeping, months ago. Ric took it out now, carefully skimming through it to make sure that it was all there and that nothing had been disturbed. Or changed. Then he tucked that under his coat, and put the folder back. Now, everything in it related to the care and upkeep of the horse. And next time Ric spoke with the captain, he would be able to offer every report file that should be present in the upcoming investigation. Even if it did make him very nervous to explain why this one wasn't there to begin with.

Trying not to think about that, Ric returned to the stall of his friend's horse, and rubbed the white streak on her face with a sad smile. "You know, I probably ought to inform Lord Veranis about you," He acknowledged. "I'm sure he'll be glad to know that you're still around." He would probably want to take custody of his son's horse, Ric figured. "If I can get a message to him, that is," He added in a mumble. Perhaps he'd try to send a message to Lord Himhathol, to pass on. That seemed the most likely way of letting the man know, and he might also be able to inquire how he was recovering.

Grabbing his scarf back from the stall door, Ric gave Winyára one last pat. "Bye, again." He smiled softly. "Maybe I'll be able to see you again." He waved, as if the horse could understand what that meant, then he wrapped the scarf around his face again, and returned to his escort, who waited by the door, and together, they started walking, back toward the house where Ric was living these days.

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen

Macardil
January 2nd, afternoon
Walking to and entering a pawn shop located in a back street

He had not been certain what to expect from Trastion, in response to his offer. It was pleasant, in any case, that Macardil's suggestion for the timing was readily accepted. He nodded at Trastion's words of gratitude. "Very well. We can begin as early as next week, if that suits you and your mentor. Tell me, Trastion, what have you already gone over with this other Pelecconner?" he inquired, for he did wish to know where the ranger had left off who had instructed the trainee previously.

While Trastion explained what he could about that, they completed the rest of their walk to the pawn shop in question. Macardil moved to open the door once Eryn confirmed that this was the right establishment. After also gesturing for Trastion to enter, Macardil entered last. The man who seemed to be running the shop at present, greeted them all politely. And given that neither Eryn nor Trastion spoke up quickly, and given that he was the oldest present, Macardil found it very easy indeed to engage in conversation first.

"The young lady has a way with words," Macardil offered up as an easy explanation for their, apparently speedy, presence at the shop. "i would very much appreciate to take a personal look at the ring and the dagger in question," he informed the man, stepping up to the counter with all the calm and composure that would be expected from the head of a Belfalasian noble household. Regardless of the fact that no one there was probably expecting quite such a thing. It made sense to him not to appear too eager.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

|
Trastion | Eryn
January 2nd, late afternoon/early evening
A pawn shop located in a back street

Trastion took a moment to think back about what all he'd learned in that brief lesson. "How to slash at a target,"He answered slowly, thoughtful. "And.. um, chopping at a target. That's all." He had tried to practice those moves, but it began to get dull doing the same things repetitively without adding anything new, after a while. And over time, without anyone to correct him if he made a mistake, he feared that he might had slipped into doing it wrong without realizing, which made him hesitant to practice too much without being certain he was doing it right.

He nodded in thanks to Macardil as he followed Eryn into the shop, fighting down the faint sense of guilt for not getting the door, himself.

The shopkeeper regarded the man curiously as he answered. "I see," He smiled slightly and glanced at Eryn. "So, this is... lieutenant Feirion?" He guessed, recalling her words from before. "Whose collection may have been robbed?"

She blinked, suddenly remembering what she'd said, and glanced apologetically over at Macardil. "Um, no.." She was at a loss for how to explain that slight discrepancy. "But he can tell whether they' belong to who I think they belong to." She explained, trying to veer from that topic.

"Very well." The man shrugged and reached under the counter, pulling out the requested items from where he had set them aside. First, he laid the sheathed dagger on the counter, then the ring was placed next to it.

As this business had nothing to do with him, Trastion waited a bit off to the side, looking around while the other two managed this.

Eryn gazed at the dagger, barely refraining from reaching out to pick it up. She may have been young when Ryn died, but she knew that dagger. He'd showed it to her many times when he was at their house, training with her father. He'd been very proud to use those weapons, as they'd belonged to his brothers. Eryn tore her gaze away from it after a second, looking over at Macardil, curious to see if she could tell whether he recognized the ring's insignia or not.

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen

Macardil
January 2nd, afternoon
A pawn shop located in a back street

Macardil offered the shopkeeper no more than a hint of a smile when the man inquired whether he was 'Lieutenant Feirion'. His expression did not change when Eryn hesitated momentarily. He didn't look back at her when she did, although he did wonder whether he was supposed to be playing a role, in which he had no interest. Duinion's daughter was smart not to assume that Macardil would be willing to present a ruse to the shopkeeper, however, and she soon enough denied it.

He had no clue as to what the dagger Eryn had mentioned, and which now lay upon the counter, was supposed to look like. The ring, however... the ring he knew quite well. He had seen it on his best friend for many years. And then Reilly's... Macardil shook his head as he took the last step to the counter, and picked up the ring. Slowly, he turned it around with his fingers. It was definitely the Veranis signet ring. There was no question.

"You are correct," Macardil mumbled, unable to take his saphhire eyes off the ring for a moment longer. When his gaze finally lifted to the shopkeeper, he was still holding onto the ring with his left hand even as he pulled out a coin purse with his right, and placed it atop the counter, squarely in front of the man. "You gave the young lady a number, for both items," he said quietly. "That should suffice." He waited, expecting the man to verify, as any good businessman would.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

|
Trastion | Eryn
January 2nd, late afternoon/early evening
A pawn shop located in a back street

Though he may have been tempted to ask a higher price, or else regretting not giving a higher price to begin with, the shopkeeper nodded after a brief pause. "That is what I told her, yes." He agreed. He was happy they weren't trying to haggle for a lower price, at least, as he reached out to claim the coin purse. "Thank you, sir." He added with a polite nod.

Without appearing eager or hasty, Eryn picked up the dagger from the counter as soon as she heard him say 'for both items'. Before they left, she took a last look at the man, so that she could remember what he looked like in case she needed to know for later. He had, after all, seen and spoken to the man who'd sold these items to him.

"Maybe.. you should let me hold onto that, when we're going through the gate," Trastion suggested soflty as they were leaving from the shop, with a nod to the dagger Eryn held. "The guards might confiscate it, with you. But I've got reasons to be carrying weapons, you know?"

Eryn considered that, then nodded a little as she.. almost reluctantly.. handed it over to the ranger trainee. Then she turned to Macardil. "Then, it did belong to your.. valarson?" She asked softly. She had almost said friend, before recalling being corrected on that, before. "Thank you, for covering the cost of the dagger, too." She added. She was sure that Cali would certainly be willing to pay him back for it, but she had yet to tell her about it.

"Um.. this might be none of my business," Trastion spoke up, once they were back on the street, "But if this stuff was sold to the shop by the guy who attacked you.. shouldn't this be reported to the guards?" He glanced from one to the other.

Eryn hesitated and frowned slightly as she hugged her cloak around her. "I don't know. I'm.. not sure about them. Not all of them, I mean. I'd tell that one guy, Uncle Dom's friend, except I can just about guarantee that they'd lock it all up for months, as evidence', and who knows when it might get returned, if ever. But... that guy.. he's either a guard, or he's able to pose as one really easily. He's even got access to a lieutenant's uniform! What if he got into the evidence chest and stole them back? He might get rid of them again, and no one would ever see them again. I don't really.. trust that they can keep this stuff safe, you know? And besides... if they find out that guy's a witness or something, what if he found out, too? He might go back and.. kill him or something." She bit her lip, then looked at Macardil. "Do you think we should tell them?" She asked with a little sigh, figuring that he'd say that they certainly need to do the 'right thing' and properly report it to the guards.

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen

Macardil
January 2nd, afternoon
Walking back up the city circles

As they left the shop, Macardil's mind was whirring. The thought that was most prevalent, however, was that he needed to take the ring to Hal. And while it could technically wait until his scheduled visit, later that afternoon, as soon as the shop door closed behind him, Macardil realized he did not want to ]wait.

A light frown had settled on his face, and it was still shaping his expression when Eryn asked if the ring was Reilly's. "It's his family's ring," Macardil replied quietly, unwilling to try and expand. For what need was there to do so? It was the Veranis signet ring. Only Halberion and Reilly had had one. Reilly's murderer had a Veranis signet ring stashed in a hiding place. He had sold it to the pawn shop. It was clear that Ademar Androllius had taken the ring from either Hal or Reilly. Macardil gritted his teeth.

"You are welcome," he replied automatically when Eryn thanked him for the dagger. But his frown deepened when Trastion mentioned reporting this to the city guard. One corner of his mouth curled unpleasantly. For he knew the Ranger Trainee was right. It should be reported to the guard. Especially since mention had been made of another person involved... what was the name Eryn had mentioned? Lieutenant Feirion?

He fought back the sigh that wanted to escape him.

For the matter should be reported to the guard.

Trouble was... Macardil did not want to report it to the guard.

His frown deepened further at Eryn's response to Trastion's suggestion, and he looked sideways at the girl as they walked back up the city circles. She was clearly suspicious of the Tower Guard, because of Ademar. And she did not know... She did not know. Then... did that mean that Duinion did not know, either? Macardil knew he had sworn not to speak of it himself, but somehow he had assumed that the Ranger Command would have informed their people by now.

Unless... the Guard Captain had required secrecy from Pele and Arnyn, as well. Macardil remembered how busy command tended to be. And after the way Ostoher had reacted to Ziran, he may have also been less inclined to grant the ranger captain and lieutenant much room when it came to related matters.

Eryn's question to him was expected. That did not mean he had to enjoy answering it, however. "We probably should," he said. "Although I will admit to an inclination to behave recalcitrantly in this particular case."

"I will join you to the Sixth," he then declared, not lingering on the topic of the Tower Guard and their investigations. "I wish to return the ring to its rightful owner. Rather than to the Guard." He glanced at Trastion. "We can stop by my house to pick up your supplies, of course."

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

|
Trastion | Eryn
January 2nd, late afternoon/early evening
Exiting a pawn shop located in a back street

As she expected, Macardil agreed that they should report it. Yet, he also added that he wasn't inclined to, in this case. Eryn wasn't really sure why that was. Maybe because he didn't want his friend's ring to end up held in evidence for who knows how long. She could already guess what at least one of the guards would probably say. That they should have contacted the guards to come and claim the items from the pawn shop, rather than acquiring them, themselves. But she still couldn't shake the feeling that a certain guard/maybe imposter guard would end up making them disappear, if they did that.

Trastion thought about both their words as they walked. He didn't know all that much about the guards, other than what little he'd learned from Galudor. Which was little. They didn't usually talk about that sort of thing. And he hadn't really had much to do with the guard recently when he walked that lady down to report the assault on her. He didn't really know if there was much danger of what Eryn was worried about, but he didn't comment. Macardil also did not want to report it, so it seemed he was outvoted, anyway.

As they continued, approaching the gate to the third level, Eryn glanced curiously over at Macardil, upon his declaration that he would join them on the sixth. "The rightful owner is here? On the sixth?" She asked in surprise, for she had sort of assumed that the family of Reilly Veranis would live somewhere further away, though she wasn't really sure what made her think that. Meanwhile, Trastion gave a brief nod in acknowledgement in reply to what was said to him.

[Ercassie]

Unalmis Raxëlilta, cleaning windows for Coranthi
at the 'Mortar and Pestle' - an apothecary. Marketplace, Second Circle
Dec 28th. Private / One-off

Time revealed that the stubborn green hue which stained the window panes was in fact the colour of the glass. And the young man startled back a pace, so that he could better admire the sight. He could finally see through at least one portion of the box bay window to the street outside ! It had taken some doing to get this far, and the entire working area was still in a clear state of disarray. Moving all the tiny bottles out of his way had been a mammoth task, which had taken far longer than he’d expected. The obscure, spidery dance of ink upon the peeling labels meant that the contents might easily be mixed up, if he had not moved them to sit in the exact same order on the floor, as they had sat upon the shelves. So now the floor was a noisy carpet of small fragile hazards, which it had become a game to step amongst and over and around. Thankfully the entire room was a pungent cave of wonders, so that any real sense of ‘neat’ would find itself an awkward stranger here.

From the hanging sprays of drying herbs, to the woody scent of crushed roots, the smoky trace of oils and salves did valiant battle with the strong clearing vapours of camphor and eucalyptus. Unalmis inhaled the memories of all the times he had come in here through the years. It seemed as though this was the first time ever that the windows had been cleaned at all. If the amount of dust and webby strands he had swallowed while wiping down the shelves was any indication. And there was still the floor to mop up after all this was finished with.


The girls would never believe this was how he had spent his day. Not with how often he made mess, to their despair. Moving into their own place had really made the pair of them astutely houseproud. To the point that a harpy scream would often now accompany his laying down a cup on almost any surface. These were girls he had once rolled wildly down hills with and not cared any about the grass stains. Now insisting that he take off his boots before entering their little sanctuary ? Growing up had a lot to answer for. He was not even supposed to consider them ‘girls’ any more. They were ‘women’ now, according to Malus who, having fallen into marriage ridiculously young was convinced that he already knew everything about the fairer sex. Things were just getting more and more complicated, as far as Nal was concerned and he couldn’t say that he liked it one piece.

Cleaning was no more of a favourite pastime now than it had been for him before. Though he was extremely well practiced in the art of course. Being messy did that, apparently; inspired the need to be forever cleaning up what he'd 'created'. Between the harpies wearing on his hearing, and the recent progression of having room-mates .. It mattered now, to not leave his things around, to pick up what might else break, or might get lost. No matter how ardently he might argue that the chaos was a means of stopping people from stealthily sneaking up on them while they slept .. that did not change the fact that nobody was running around picking up after him any more. Brian was a tyrant, but as far as the Barracks Master was concerned, he was starting to weedle his rules in. A month of sour looks from his fellow Rangers had been more hard to swallow than any lecture which the Lieutenant could have bored him with. But a month of room inspections had been definitely worth the safe hiding of Hattie. And even Nal was starting to get used to making his bed now as habit. The girls probably would not believe that of him either.


But he was not cleaning the apothecary today out of the goodness of his heart. Even though this had long been his favourite shop in the marketplace. Mixing up potions and all the potent stinks had always been a draw, and access to the woods these days had only made it more easy to forage for resources. Old Coranthi was kind, and patient, and never too busy to teach him something, particularly if he'd brought her some raw ingredient she was getting short on. When he’d seen her advert in the ‘Needful Things’ book, asking for some help to tidy up .. it had taken less than a moment for him to decide. There was more than one apothecary in the city of course, and the best known, probably the best stocked, was the one up in the Houses of Healing. But this one was the only that he knew which could provide the certain something that he needed. And that was the whole point of ‘Needful Things’, right ? Besides keeping his sister in a job, besides the pleasant company that the old woman provided, this spontaneous errand would help all parties to get what they needed via an exchange of aid, rather than of any coin. Both of his sisters’ birthdays were around this time of year. And while the cinnamon-smelling candles and some anti-rust lotion had been perfect offerings for Cali, he had something else in mind for Iole.

By the end of the day, the myriad of tiny, unmatched bottles had been dusted and stored back in their original place, and now customers could in fact spy them from the street ! Mission accomplished ! The large window was now so effective that the Ranger had observed that Macardil fellow and Cuner Karis escorting a carriage, with a further train of city guards in their wake ! But Unalmis could not see who was inside their carriage, and by the time that Coranthi had called him over to learn how to produce a fresh-made bottle of flowery perfume for his sister’s birthday, Nal had already forgotten that the sight had ever made him glance after it.


A hard day’s work but worth it. He left the place more clean than when he had arrived, a feat that anyone who knew him would maybe even suspect that he had been holding out on them about his cleaning tendencies, on purpose !

[Ercassie]

@Rillewen

Dolûzor Solis, visiting a certain Butcher’s shop.
Marketplace. December 29th. Following on from THIS POST .

There was more than one butcher’s shop in the marketplace, but the Umbarian had been given a description of the exterior. Still, after walking up and down the street for a time, as though he was looking for something he had dropped, he finally decided on the most likely contender. And before he could overthink or talk himself out of the errand, Dolûzor idled past the meat that hung on show, and dragged himself away from further inspecting some fine horns which were on display for sale. No time for shopping now ! Less than a minute later he had been told, in no uncertain terms, to sling his hook and not insinuate such things in that establishment, if he knew what was good for him ! So, hopefully that had been the wrong butcher’s shop. Else somebody was really having a laugh at his expense in sending him upon this wild goose chase !

Stumbling into the nearest other butcher shop was a hasty solution to avoid people out on the street from staring, and to also evade any pursuit from the staff from where he had just fled. The fellow at the counter in this latest establishment was quite young, but from the pounding and cleaving sounds that were emanating from the back room, there was someone more mature attending to their wares close by. Performing a Gondorian accent by this point was an easy feat for Dolûzor, although his usual Harlond dialect did now have an element of recent Lossarnach influence. Fortunately the two locales were close enough neighbours that it ought not set off any alarm bells. He did not sound any more Umbarian than he specifically looked, which was the point. The only thing which might have been worthy of attention was that he looked like he had spent the night sleeping rough. Which would be the truth of it. After demands had been made to pay upfront for stabling his horse, he had been left without the means to afford anything more entertaining but to 'check' on his mount and end up sleeping hidden in the stables with the animal. It had not been as comfortable as other beds he'd known, but it was better than shivering out in the frigid weather.


“Good day, sir,” he began rather jauntily, and loud enough that both men in the building should be able to hear him. “I wonder, if you might have any cats meat that I might make purchase of, from your fine establishment ?” He paused to swipe his long dark fringe out of his eyes, and mentally crossed fingers that they would take the request a little more kindly than the last place. “I am a violinist ..” he improved upon his earlier attempt, and waved one hand idly as though this certified his claim. “And I need some cats gut for my .. strings,” he continued the ruse, his voice however dropping several octaves in the last word. The realisation came late, that he may have now deviated from the code that his expected agents would be listening out for. Well, it couldn’t go any worse than his last try. Hopefully.

[Rillewen]

@Ercassie

Nínimdor, the Butcher's apprentice
A certain butcher's shop - December 29th

A small bell rang, jostled by the door's opening. The man who entered was no one that Nín had ever seen before. Looking up from wrapping a cut of meat into paper, the young man eyed the new customer with curiosity while expertly tucking the end of the paper in, in such a way that it should not come undone until the customer unwrapped it. It was not nearly as often as he liked, when he got to actually practice the chopping and cutting part of the job. He'd spent a few years now, wrapping up the meat packages so that customers didn't have to carry around a bloody chunk of meat. Most of them seemed to find that unpleasant or something.

The new 'customer' spoke first, greeting him with a 'sir' before making a rather intriguing request. Ním's lips twitched into a rather amused smile before he managed to straighten out his expression, then cast a glance toward the door into the back room. A hunter had brought in a large deer to sell, and Rûdhben was quite busy getting it all cut up into sellable pieces. The sound of the knife hitting the chopping block continued, even as the stranger went on to explain that he wanted string for his violin. Right. Because people totally went to butcher shops for that?

"Sorry," The young man claimed, though he didn't really sound very sorry at all. "That isn't something we sell here. Perhaps you might try the Hall of Song?" He suggested instead, while pulling out a bit more paper from his roll. "Let me write you the address." A half smirk tugged at his face as he grabbed a pencil, and wrote down an address that was absolutely not for the Hall of Song. Because he'd been told in advance that there was a possibility someone might come along, asking for 'cat meat'. It was a private joke between himself and the one who this guy was looking for.

"What's your name, sir? Are you by chance a known violinist in this city?" He added, as if making casual conversation. He tore off the paper he'd written on and handed it over to him, brown eyes fixed upon the other man to watch for his reaction to what he had written.

[Ercassie]

@Rillewen

Dolûzor Solis, visiting a certain Butcher’s shop.
Marketplace. December 29th.

After the recent hostile response to the very idea a butcher would sell catmeat, Dolûzor had been clutching at uncertainties when he tried to belatedly strengthen his request with the violin backstory. The expression which he met in this second butchers, was already making him doubt whether such musicians would even use cat guts for their strings, or if that was merely a rumour that had been put about. In which case, he’d probably just undermined his own claim of being a man who would assuredly know .. what strings for a violin were made of.

Though he was treated to another refusal, at least this time the staff seemed more helpful. And the mention of there being a place called .. ‘the Hall of Song’ ? Had he heard that right ? Here ! In Minas Tirith ?? The Umbarian’s understanding had gone straight to his own homeland’s equivalent of that title. The Chamber of Song was a torture chamber in Umbar’s Iron House Dungeons. And if he stared a little too long in some shock, Dol shook the surprise off, a moment later.


If there was a torture chamber here in the King’s own city, then it would make sense that Nâluthor would work there. Right ? As one of the King’s guards and, apparently, torturer ? A place where a person could obtain guts to make instruments out of ? He shrugged, with a convinced acceptance.

“Thank you my good man,” the smile was wide. “I am visiting your fine city and clearly still finding my way about. My name is .. ” The liar made the most fuss that he could out of receiving the paper which he was handed. While he tried to decide whether it would be wise to announce his real name. For this was not exactly an open transaction he was dealing with here.


“Here. Let me write my name down for you,” he proposed, tearing off a blank portion from the bottom of the parchment he’d been handed. And extended a hand expectant to borrow the means of writing on it. “I may not be famous here yet, but you shall have an autograph my friend, for your kindness in giving me directions. And who knows, ? Perhaps one day you shall be telling your children that you once met me in person !”

The Umbarian’s swagger was a trait he had never been able to really play down. Even after a series of recent failures. For they had not been his failures. He was merely the messenger, the bearer of bad news. That made him well informed. It made him important. Or so he could convince himself, late at night, when the concerns about being left with no means to prove useful to his employers .. did tax his thoughts.


“There,” he concluded, and handed back the writing utensil, and what it had produced. A brief scan of the directions he had been handed in exchange convinced the out of towner that he’d never heard or seen such a place in the city’s confines. Yet. He would have to find it. “A worthy encounter for us each,” he concluded, and folded his instructions over once before stowing them safely in his coat pocket.

So his errand was yet to be completed, his associate not yet located. Still. This latest step in the right direction had not cost him anything. Back home, people were less liable to hand a stranger any sort of favour without something in it for them. By rights then, he ought to have been more suspicious and expect this all to come out as some trap or lie. It had worked out ? Too easily ? But he had no heart to persevere at another butchers, and so with a swift nod then, Dolûzor turned to be upon his way.

[Rillewen]

@Ercassie

Nínimdor, the Butcher's apprentice
A certain butcher's shop - December 29th

When the fellow hesitated about giving his name, Nim's eyes narrowed ever so slightly, but soon he explained that he would write it down, claiming that he would be famous one day. Nim gave a little laugh at that. "I suppose that is every musician's dream." He answered, smiling in amusement while the fellow wrote down a name and passed it to him. "Well, I thank you ever so much for your autograph." He declared, taking a look at the name. "I hope you achieve your goals, sir." Being famous, or whatever his true ambition might be. Assuming that it was in line with his and his associate's.

As the man turned to go, Nim folded the paper with the name and slipped it into his pocket. "Have a good day, sir. And good luck with your strings." He added with a little smirk. Once the man had left the shop, Nim sat back and thought for a moment. He'd need to get that message to Naluthor as soon as possible. But he wouldn't be able to get away from here for a while. Yet... he did have someone that he could send. So, Nim took a moment to jot down a description of the man along with the name. If Naluthor knew him, and the description didn't match the name, then he'd know that something was off.

While he was putting this paper in his pocket, the butcher, Haston, emerged from the back room. "Did we have a customer?" He asked.

"Not exactly." Nin replied, sitting back in his seat. "Just some fellow looking for strings for his violin." He scoffed in amusement. "I sent him to the Hall of Song."

"Strings, here?" Haston asked, puzzled.

"Newcomer to town, I guess." Nin shrugged. "Anyway, did you get the deer all finished?" He wondered, diverting the man's attention to his livelihood.

"I did, yes." He answered, pleased. "Thank you for manning the counter. I know you're always eager to practice the butchering part, but I wanted to get that done in just the right way.

Nin shrugged. "I know. I take longer at it." He acknowledged.

"It's about time for lunch, now." Haston observed. "How about you run out and grab us both something?" He suggested. "After we eat, I'll let you spend a few hours working in the back."

Nin smiled happily to hear that. "Perfect." He declared. That would give him a chance to send the message, and then he'd get to spend some time practicing what he liked doing.

Haston took some money out of the till and handed it to him.

"Be right back." Nin grinned as he left the shop and hurried down the street. The first stop he made, however, was not to a place that sold food. Rather, he went to a certain smith shop, asking for his son. Nin was a little more than a year older than Corben, so it wasn't at all odd for the two to sometimes spend time together.

Once he'd passed his note on to the other teenager, Nin hurried on his way to get lunch. He had no doubt that Corben would deliver the note and that Naluthor would be able to make the decision about whether he would meet with this Doluzor fellow, or if he would make another choice regarding this guy. Nin would wait for further word from him. Who knows.. maybe Naluthor would ask them to all meet together. Maybe he'd give the word to kill this guy... that'd be fun. Or, maybe he was an ally, given the fact that he knew how to ask for contact with Naluthor. Ah, well. He'd have to wait to find out. For now, he hurried back with lunch for himself and his boss.

[Rillewen]

“Iole, Gildolen,” Domanol urged Brooke and Aislin inside, even as he loitered about the front step, with Seri. “Would you do me the grandest of all favours, and show the girls around the shop ?” he encouraged, without subtlety. “It is a very unusual shop,” he told the girls then, indicating all the empty shelves. “We’ll be back soon and we can all walk back up together, if that suits ?” he imagined, before disappearing, his hand in the healer’s.

A half moment later, the man threw his head back through the door and punctuated the awkward silence with a further word. “Don’t leave here, or go wandering off around the market, will you ? Not even if someone invites you. Unless it is us, ..” he frowned, and faltered until GiI managed a stiff nod of his head. The valet did not wish to think much on why the Ranger of the North would be hurrying off, or where, with the Bree Healer. Iole was already blushing.

“We’ll be across the street,” As eager to go as he was loath to depart, Domanol managed to point out through the window, towards his brother’s shop.

(private/solo thing, just because)

Brooke
Dev 31, late morning-afternoon
(Also in relation to this and this)

An incredulous huff accompanied Brooke as she was ushered into the room, faithful Chewy trotting along at her side, tail wagging. "I cannot believe they don't think it's an actual crime to tear pages out of a book." She muttered in complaint, a deep down etched into her face as she moved to stand off out of the way, uncharacteristically irritated. Dom and Seri did not stick around to hear her rant, however, not that she even expected that they would. She turned to the others in the room, instead. "I mean, if it isn't, it should be. Right?" She asked, hoping for some backup at least from Gil and his friend, both of whom she knew were book-lovers as well. "That stuffy guard didn't even care to hear about the coat theft, either." She complained, frowning down at the floor

"I knew this would be a big, silly waste of time." She declared quietly. "Guards don't really care about stuff that's important. All they cared about is asking about things I don't know, and things that I didn't see. And then, they didn't even care when I tried to tell them about a real crime that I did witness." She didn't get openly upset very often, but anyone who knew her even slightly, wouldn't be at all surprised that on this occasion, it was because of someone damaging a book. "They just.. looked at me like I was crazy." She mumbled, her gazed fixed on the floor. "He actually asked me if I was sure I hadn't dozed off and dreamed the whole thing." She scoffed quietly at the absurdity of such a suggestion.

After a moment's pause, she glanced up and realized that she'd sort of.. spilled out her frustration without considering the other people there. "Um... Sorry," Brooke spoke a bit awkwardly, to the couple who had probably been interrupted in the middle of some sort of private talk. With a glance around the shop, she shifted uncomfortably from one foot to the other, arms hugged around herself. "We um.. we were just at the guard's headquarters.. reporting about nothing." She explained, with a little huff and an eyeroll. Gil, at least, would know something about that errand, though he probably knew as little about it as Brooke did. She still didn't fully know why the guards even wanted to talk to her, Seri, and Aislin. She sighed and leaned against the wall, wishing she was back in the library. Any library.