Rangers: Headquarters & Armoury

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Isolde Alarion

Trainee Trastion Leithor
Headquarters, Command Office - Early October

Trastion didn't have to turn to see his roommate, but grinned as he turned his head slightly to greet Mourgan. "No idea. I can't think of anything," He shrugged. "Also, I was thinking.. if we were in trouble, I'd think she would come say something to us, or the message would have said to come right away... not 'tomorrow after breakfast', right? So.. I think we're fine."

He glanced at Mourgan's attire, thinking about his question. "I don't know. I thought this might be something to do with training.. since the early session was canceled." He did find that slightly puzzling. "I learned from my first day that if I'm going for training, to bring all my gear." He explained, recalling that first day's training with a little grin. "But.. well if it is training, we're not far from the barracks. I'm sure it wouldn't take long to grab your stuff first." He figured they'd find out soon enough.

[Arnyn]

@Isolde Alarion @Rillewen

Lieutenant Arnyn Dealedwen
Headquarters, Command Office - Early October

Contrary to Arnyn's habit, the door to the command office was closed. A map was covering most of the desk, with Arnyn leaning over it, both of her hands leaning on the top of the desk, palms flat. Her long blonde hair had been gathered over one shoulder, as not to impede her vision of the roads and trails.

The Lieutenant looked up at the knock and moved to open the door. Seeing Trastion - in full gear - and Mourgan - not in full gear - standing there together, made her lips quirk into a smile. A funny contrast. "Come in," she told them, leaving the door open and walking back toward the other side of the desk. "Leave the door," she added. "I'm expecting ten more rangers." Her tone was all business as she assessed them briefly.

She gestured for them to come closer. "Taras," she addressed him, but her dark eyes remained on the map. "Here is an exercise for you. What would be the swiftest way for a dozen or so Rangers to travel from Minas Tirith to the slopes of the mountains to the northeast of the Gilraen?" Finally, the Lieutenant glanced up, and she flashed a quick smile at Mourgan.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Isolde Alarion

Trainee Trastion Leithor
Headquarters, Command Office - Early October

As the lieutenant mentioned she was expecting ten more, Trastion was a bit surprised, but nodded as he stepped into the office, leaving the door open. He was still rather confused. Why no training session? What was going on? Who were the other ten rangers who were coming? He came closer when she motioned to do so, and looked down at the map she was studying.

His eyes glanced up at her when she addressed him, then returned to the map after hearing what she asked. It had been a little while since he studied geography, but he still remembered some of it. He frowned thoughtfully as he first had to locate the river and the area of the mountains she spoke of. Now that he looked at the map, he realized what area she was talking about. He had traveled that way himself, coming to Minas Tirith, several months ago. He had taken a more leisurely and meandering way of traveling, however, since he hadn't really been in much of a hurry. Aware of Mourgan's presence, however, he didn't comment on his own experience of actually traveling that way before.

"Right about here?" He checked, pointing to the spot on the map which he thought she was referring to. He looked at her for a moment, wondering why she was asking this. Despite his confusion, he turned his attention back to the map and placed his finger on Minas Tirith. "Well, we can't really go by water.." He began. "Not if you want speed, and especially not with ease." He happened to know there were several places with waterfalls along that river, and if they tried going by river, they'd be traveling upstream by that point. Not ideal for any journey, much less one requiring speed. "So, instead, I would suggest taking this road," His finger lightly followed the tiny, dotted line marking a road on the map, "Through Lossarnach. There's a good solid bridge here at the river Erui, commemorating the battle where king Eldacar defeated the usurper Castamir," He remembered. "It's kept in good condition. There's another bridge here, at Sirith, but it's not as good. And then, after crossing the river Sirith, the road veers downward to the south-west, toward Minas Brethil, but if we need to go upward instead, we could cut across the land between the Sirith and Serni... there's another road that follows alongside the Serni, upstream.. but I'm not sure exactly where we're needing to go," He added, looking back up at Arnyn inquisitively.

He had followed the tiny, dotted lines with his fingertip, and with his other hand, pointed out the different locations he had mentioned on the map, while he spoke and gave his suggestion for the best route. "And, obviously... it'd be much faster on horses than on foot." He wasn't sure if that was even necessary to say, but figured he better not leave it out or she might think he meant to travel on foot. "Keeping mostly to the road, I would think it ought to be quick enough." His own travels had taken longer, given that he had avoided the roads mostly, but he knew the roads offered a much more direct route from town to town, which was more conducive to swift travel, on or off horseback.

[Isolde Alarion]

Ranger Mourgan Alarion
Headquarters, Command Office - Early October
@Arnyn @Rillewen

Trastion made sense. It wouldn't take him long if armor was needed so he shrugged and nodded then looked back at the door, but they didn't have to wait long for it to open. "Lieutenant." It was a short greeting before they were told to come in and leave the door open. Hearing she was expecting ten more raised his brows slightly, curiosity rising in him as he followed behind both Trastion and the Lieutenant till they came to her desk where a map lay spread out on it.

He stood looking at the map, pausing only long enough to acknowledge the Lieutenants quick smile with a small one of his own before returning to the map and Trastions assessment. His brown eyes followed Trastions finger as he made his suggestions. His reasoning was sound, he nodded lightly in agreement. If you wanted quick, then taking the roadways by horseback was the way to go. He had a couple questions but thought to hold them until the others had arrived and were brought up to speed, no sense repeating. He lightly rubbed at his stubbled chin in thought. Whatever the Lieutenant had in mind it was time sensitive.

[Arnyn]

@Isolde Alarion @Rillewen

Lieutenant Arnyn Dealedwen
Headquarters, Command Office - Early October

She watched the trainee calmly, not overly scrutinizing, but simply curious to see what he would say. "Well thought out, Taras," she said, her tone still businesslike, which somehow almost made the compliment more valuable. The Lieutenant was completely into her analytical mindset at the moment, with little room for anything else - unless she were forced.

"What happens to the route if you are no longer looking to go here," she began, tapping her finger to the location Trastion had indicated just now, "but rather here-abouts?" She indicated the mountains halfway in between - on the one hand - the point where two streams coming down the mountain started the river Gilraen and - on the other hand - the town of Ethring. "Two options become available to you now. Would you still prefer the route by land? Or would you consider going down the Anduin by ship and sailing to Linhir, before taking the road north?"

Arnyn straightened, regarding both Mourgan and Trastion. "I would like to hear both of your opinions on this, actually. Which route you would prefer, and your reasons for doing so."

[Pele Alarion]

Captain Pele Alarion
Command Office, Headquarters
Second Half of November

For the last few days Pele had exchanged her early longer training sessions in the training grounds for a shorter workout in the barracks courtyard with the following breakfast in the office within head quarters. And this turned out to be one of those mornings when sat at the desk covered in maps - a bigger map showing Gondor, Harad, and some lands beyond, as well as a more detailed map of Umbar - with the list of current Rangers on top and various smaller notes scattered all over the desk. She jotted down some more notes with one hand, while trying to finish off the sandwich which she held in the other.

She was doing her best to consider strengths and weaknesses of each Ranger, considering what each would need to work on, what options there were for smaller units if necessary. All this went into the sea of small notes which looked to be in too much of disarray to make much sense. It should be that the more she thought and planned, and prepared, the clearer the mission should be, and yet there was doubt. With all the careful planning, she was not sure if they would be able to pull this off successfully, if any success would outweigh any incurred losses, and if there would be any long-term effect and benefit for Gondor.

All the thinking made her shoulders tense up quite painfully, so the Captain decided it was time to take a break. Carefully she snuffed out the candle, for the daylight was already streaming in through the window, and then stood up. Perhaps she should open the door of the office so that people would know she was available, but perhaps not yet. Perhaps she would finish her tea first. With a sigh she stretched upwards, and then rolled her shoulders back and forth to release some of the tension. Then she reached for the cup only to discover that the tasty liquid was no longer hot, barely lukewarm at best. She muttered something in that regard, and sipping from the cup walked over to the window, opening it to let in a fresh breeze, while she sat on the windowsill and enjoyed the tea in relative peace.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn @Isolde Alarion

Trainee Trastion Leithor
Headquarters, Command Office - Early October

He gave a small smile in reply to the lieutenant's compliment, but that soon turned into a thoughtful frown as he studied the map with the altered route. He considered her questions, hesitating slightly. What would be quicker? He felt that there were a great many factors to take into consideration with that, and wasn't sure quite how to put it into words.

Therefore, he began speaking a bit slowly as he tried to sort through his thoughts out loud, to give her an answer. "Well.. I suppose that depends somewhat on the people who are with us. If they know how to sail, for instance.. if they know the river and how to navigate the bay around the areas you're talking about, then perhaps sailing would be quicker, but personally.. I don't know the Anduin and I don't know these waters at all. In fact.." he shrugged. "I'd have no idea how to handle a ship. A horse, on the other hand.." he smiled slightly and left that unfinished. She had seen how well he could ride, that day that he and Rome went with her on a riding outing.

"Still.." he added with a little frown as he studied the map. "Even with skilled sailors to man a ship for us, it seems a little out of the way to me.. going all the way down the Anduin, through Pelargir, and around this chunk of land to get to Linhir, then going up the road.. when we could just cut straight across on horseback. I mean.. why go down, across, around, and then up... when you can just go straight across?" he shrugged. "Then again, like I said.. I'm not familiar with the Anduin. Is the current swift enough to make up for all the extra time we'd take, going around all the land we would otherwise just cross over, if we went by horseback?" He asked, genuinely curious about that factor. "The way I see it, the only real drawback to using horses is that they would tire, while a boat would not." He shrugged slightly.

[Pele Alarion]

&
Captain Pele Alarion & Cadil
Command Office, Headquarters
Second Half of November

Pele drank half of the cold tea and poured the other half into the pot of a plant nearby though it had apparently been watered recently. Leaving the cup on the windowsill with an intention to refill it later with a steaming hot beverage, she walked over to the door casually and swung it open. Yet the door had barely travelled one third of the distance before hitting an obstacle.

"Now, what is this?" Pele muttered under her breath and stepped out and around the door to find Cadil rubbing his forehead with an expression of being more startled than in pain.

"What is the meaning of this, tell me! Cadil?" she demanded from the young man. "Standing here listening to secrets?"

"N-n-no, Serg... Captain," Cadil quickly corrected himself, taking note of her insignia of rank. "I heard nothing. Only wanted to bring news."

A frown mastered Pele's brow, even as a curious glint appeared in her eyes while she observed Cadil. It seemed to her that since the last time they had seen each other he had rather grown around his waist rather than build some manly muscle; and he still appeared to have the same playfulness in him, though she could also clearly see certain seriousness in his brown eyes. It had been quite some time, and she expected him to have grown in character and experience a bit, considering the information she had come by.

"News? Like, news of you wanting to join the King's Rangers?" she asked, and motioned for him to enter the office. "Or is it something else?" She quickly collected all the notes from the desk and stashed them away, yet leaving the maps out.

"I only wanted to say that Nal... Unalmis said that he and some others might be in danger of being killed or such..." seeing Pele immediately become tense and peer at him as if she wanted to burn holes in him, he hastened to say: "It was after Midsummer. I just haven't really seen him since."

The last words made the Captain slowly let out the breath she had been holding unawares. "Midsummer. And you come and tell me only now? Do you not think at all, Cadil? Still?," she could not help but roll her eyes. "What if he had been killed while you sat around comfortably? And you would tell me only now?"

"He said to wait, so I did," the young man said in a small voice, wanting the ground to open up and swallow him. He was not sure he wanted to explain the reasons he had waited as long as possible since he knew those would not be found reasonable.

"Unalmis is just fine, as far as I know," Pele said, taking pity on Cadil. "Now, is that all news? Or?"

"That is all," he replied, and then added tentatively: "Though perhaps you would give me one more chance, Captain?"

She stood, arms crossed and studied Cadil in silence until it seemed that the silence was almost becoming unbearable for him. "What chance? You want to enlist?" she asked and received a small nod in response.

"You don't have a head about you. And you are not fit, as far as I can tell..." she waved towards his belly, but seeing hope disappear from his eyes she continued: "Tell you what, Cadil. You meet me very early tomorrow morning, at the hour when night guards are replaced by the early morning shift. By the gate of the third circle. Bring all you think you would need for three days. Then I will decide once I see what you are capable of. Deal?" Receiving another nod, Pele said: "Now, off you go."

Cadil did not have to be told twice, and headed for the door with relief obvious on his face.

"Oh, and, Cadil," Pele called after him before he could disappear out the door. "Don't you worry about Unalmis, all right?" The young man returned the smile faintly and made to get out of the headquarters as fast as he could.

[Arnyn]

@Isolde Alarion @Rillewen

Lieutenant Arnyn Dealedwen
Headquarters, Command Office - Early October (end of the first week)

At Trastion's questions, she suppressed a thoughtful sigh as she straightened to her full height, rather than leaning onto the desk with the map. And not because the questions were bad ones - they were not. "I'm afraid that we will all have much more experience on a ship soon enough," she mumbled, half under her breath. That is, if Trastion and Mourgan would agree to go with them to Umbar. She had a feeling they both would, however. And Arnyn wasn't sure whether that warmed her or worried her. Probably both.

Other Rangers were starting to spill in through the doors. The Lieutenant welcomed them, and soon the command office was filled with thirteen rangers total. "I received a message from Ranger Thûllir Bregedyr," the Lieutenant began, addressing everyone. "He and Hyandaner Kaylin were called to investigate some trouble to the north of Linhir. It appears that a group of bandits are wreaking havoc on caravans, from regular traders to beacon resuppliers. Thûllir and Kaylin were already in Linhir on personal time," she added as a ways to explain why the two were already working on the problem. "And they sent word through the Captain of Linhir's Guard that assistance would be appreciated, since the bandits' number is estimated to be around 15 to 20 people." She wasted no time today. She never had when it came to missions. "That is where everyone now standing in this room comes in. Your schedules have been cleared. We are taking a ship from Harlond," her brown eyes flicked to Trastion and Mourgan, as if to warn them that the answers to Tras' questions were coming now, "Manned by experienced sailors, who can swiftly take the ship down the Anduin and into the port of Linhir swiftly. We will also be taking horses on the ship with us. The idea is to leave Linhir on horseback, still well rested and well supplied, to follow the road and Thûllir and Kaylin's trail north to the area they are investigating. Otherwise, it would be rather difficult to find their current location. The hope is they will have already scouted the area and can relay all the necessary information we need to move in on these criminals and eliminate the threat to the people of the area."

Arnyn's hands were clasped loosely behind her back. "I expect we will be gone from the City for about a month. Report to me just outside the Great Gate, tomorrow, after you have all had your breakfast. That should give you enough time to make your preparations and inform anyone you wish of your absence." She knew several of those present today had family they would prefer to speak to, before leaving. Possibly they would also need to make some arrangements besides their duty schedule - which Arnyn had already taken care of for them. "Any questions?"

[Isolde Alarion]

Ranger Mourgan Alarion

Headquarters, Command Office- Early October (end of the first week)

The Lieutenant wished to hear both their opinions and Trastion gave his first. He looked down to the map as he listened to Trastions reasoning. Honestly much of it mirrored his own and would have explained so as the Lieutenant made her comments to Trastions thoughts, but soon other Rangers joined them in the room. He nodded to each a silent welcome before turning back to the Lieutenant as she addressed the gathering of 13 Rangers.
Heres where they got their answers to the Lieutenants inquiries, he caught the flicker of a glance from the Lieutenant. He stood still, listening. Absorbing her words, the plan, their mission. They were next given instructions of when to meet and where and then to wrap it up she asked if there were any questions.

"Lieutenant." He spoke up. "Our attire, blend in?" He motioned to his casual attire then to Trastions armor. "Or make a statement?"

@Arnyn

[Arnyn]

@Isolde Alarion @Rillewen

Lieutenant Arnyn Dealedwen
Headquarters, Command Office - Early October (end of the first week)

"Greys, greens, browns or blacks," she told Mourgan matter-of-factly, even though her lips curled up in an amused smile at the way he'd worded the question. "Don't burden yourselves with heavy armour. We're not going to a battle field. We're uprooting a band of thieves." And killers. "Light to medium armour will be best for this."

After answering a few more practical questions, the Rangers filed back out of the office. The Lieutenant was left alone once more, with nearly all of the arrangements on her side dealt with already. With a grim look in her eyes, she tidied up the office and left herself, securely locking it up behind her. She'd get the key to the Ranger who'd be taking over during her absence. And then she only needed to make her own personal arrangements. Which were not all that many.

~ Continued here. ~

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel

Headquarters, Command Office - Third week of November

She was pushing papers. Lieutenant Brian had been busy in Pele's and Arnyn's absence. There was a whole backlog to work through. Pele had taken care of some of it, yesterday, and today it was Arnyn's turn. And while the LIeutenant was fine with paperwork in general, the Barracks Master did tend to push her buttons. That did make it challenging to handle the matters that he brought forward.

She'd planned a few breaks by adding other duties throughout the hours to come. Smaller matters - though that did not mean they were any less important. Several people would be walking through the open door of her office today, either to deliver a report or for Arnyn to deliver orders. Not every conversation would be easy, unfortunately. One in particular, she was not looking forward to. Arnyn never liked having to give orders she could not explain, especially not when questions were warranted. But the conversation in question was one of her own making. One she had suggested, one that offered a solution to a conundrum that two other Rangers would otherwise face. One that was meant to protect.

With a sigh, she dipped her quil into the ink pot and continued writing a response.

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn

Thûllir Bregedŷr
Headquarters - Third week of November

Thûllir wore the blacks and grays of the guard this day to better blend in among the other rangers and soldiers as he made his way through the doors of the headquarters and towards the office. While he preferred the greens and browns he wore in the woods, here those clothes stuck out as more noticeable. At least his soft boots were as quiet on the stones as usual. He checked that the tie over his only visible belted knife was secure before knocking on the office door, ready to enter at a hail from within.

It wasn’t necessarily a surprise to receive a summons to the office, but Thûllir admitted to himself that he was curious about the reason for the note from the Lieutenant. They had been back from the impromptu mission into the hills for long enough to recuperate and debrief, so he was half expecting another task, but wanted to go into the meeting without expectations.

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel

Headquarters, Command Office - Third week of November

"Come on in," she told whoever was at the door. Flicking up her gaze from the papers, she saw it was Thûllir. Well. At least she would be able to get it out of the way sooner rather than later.

"Thûllir," she greeted him with a faint smile. She deposited the quill into the ink pot, sliding the papers in front of her to the side, and rose from her chair. "Please, take a seat." Once he would sit down, she would reclaim her seat, as well. "First, I have a question for you. Why did you join the Rangers of Ithilien, all those years ago? And why do you serve still, today, even now that the war is over?"

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn

Thûllir Bregedŷr
Headquarters - Third week of November

Entering at her summons, Thûllir came to attention briefly and then took the seat Arnyn had indicated, although it felt slightly strange to sit while she stood. Thankfully, she sat down again as soon as he did. Her first question gave him pause despite the seemingly simple answer. That was normally the type of question asked of recruits in order to determine their motives and sincerity. Why ask it now?
Nonetheless, he would endeavor to answer succinctly.

After only a brief pause to consider, he replied matter-of-factly, “I joined out of a sense of duty and obligation to use my strength and skills to serve and protect. When the King asked me to do so here rather than in Ithilien, I saw it as an extension of that and an opportunity to serve with my wife rather than apart. I choose to serve as long as there is a need for my skills and they can be of use.” His blue-grey eyes were steady on Arnyn as he continued. “I think our latest excursion shows that there is still a need for warriors even though the war is over.” Would she say why she was asking, or did it lead into something?

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel

Headquarters, Command Office - Third week of November

She nodded with a faint smile of approval. His reply was along the lines of what she'd expected. "Right you are," she first agreed, before a brief silence fell over them as she rose from her seat again to close the door to the office. "I need to call on you for an unusual act of protection, Thûllir. On you - and on Kaylin. So in this act, the two of you will be serving together." Little could the ranger in front of her know as of yet, that the term 'act' was rather ambiguous. She was about to elaborate, though.

The Lieutenant returned to her seat and watched Thûllir calmly. "I have asked Kaylin and Trastion to pretend that Trastion was born In Linhir. More than that, they will be claiming to the outside world that Trastion grew up in Linhir only a few streets from where here Kaylin grew up. And that they have known each other since childhood."

She let that sink in for a moment. "You already know that cannot be true. You know when they met and how they've gotten to know each other. Despite this knowledge, I have to order you to go along with their story. For the time being, I cannot tell you why. But know that, firstly, the circumstances and reasons that led to this necessity will be revealed to you in time. And secondly, that by following these orders you are doing exactly what you set out to do by joining the rangers."

Watching his blue-grey eyes for anything that might give away his inner feelings or thoughts on the matter, Arnyn prepared for whatever his outward response might be. She'd learned enough about Thûllir to know that his inward and outward response might be rather different.

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn

Thûllir Bregedŷr
Headquarters - Third week of November

An unusual act of protection. Together with Kaylin. Thûllir let those words settle as the Lieutenant closed the door and walked back to take her seat. The words sparked curiosity and a hint of wariness in his spirit, but he merely watched her quietly as he listened. An eyebrow flicked upward slightly when she went on to describe the pretense she wanted them to take on, allowing her to see the faint question. Why pretend that the kid would have been known by Kaylin those many years ago? He knew the falsehood, but also knew it would be more believable that any kid interested in the military in Linhir might have known of Kaylin given her father’s position with the guard and her own flair for life. And his protection was to not speak up to counter those claims?

Arnyn’s swift move to saying that she couldn’t tell him the reasons behind the order other than necessity countered the one thing he would have asked for, and he looked back at her steadily with only a faint clenching of his jaw that was hidden under the beard.This story would lend protection how and from whom? “So my part in this is to not react negatively to their interactions and the story they spin? How elaborate of a ruse is this to be?” It sounded like he was the last piece in ensuring the integrity of the story. He hadn’t been present for the group's initial trip through Linhir on this last excursion, but he couldn’t remember if Trastion had displayed any familiarity with the city on their return journey. He didn’t like being in the dark as to the threat he was supposedly protecting against and that it rested on a ruse, even though he could pull off his part in such a tale with no difficulty.

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel

Headquarters, Command Office - Third week of November

It was clear that he was wondering about the why behind all this. Who wouldn't? If she had been in Thûllir's position, Arnyn knew she would have wanted to know as well. She also knew she would accept being kept in the dark, provided she trusted the person giving her the orders was doing so for a good reason. So, perhaps the success of this conversation would boil down to that: the question of whether Thûllir trusted her enough.

The Lieutenant was impressed by the way Thûllir did not ask for the reason anyway. The questioning tilt of his eyebrow from before had disappeared, and despite the other questions he asked, there was no question left in his expression. And as for what he did ask... it only pertained to the assignment she was giving him. Whatever the man in front of her was thinking, it was impossible to tell.

The only assumption she felt safe in making was, that by his lack of smiling or humour, he was not exactly amused with the task she was setting for him and Kaylin.

"You and Kaylin will have to talk about what things she's told you. Which things would have come up over the years, especially since Trastion's arrival," Arnyn answered him as she returned his look just as steadily. "And it will be up to you to decide which details you would have remembered and which you might have forgotten." Arnyn folded her hands together on the desk. "I was impressed with how thorough Kaylin's questions were in order to establish this ruse. I am sure she will tell you exactly what she would have shared with you on the matter."

"I also think it is important that you know Kaylin is also unaware of the full extent of why this ruse is being called to life. It vexed her, and she immediately poked holes into exactly the right the parts of the story she was told - highlighting exactly why her cooperation was needed, might I add. But she did accept the limits. Just as I know you will, too." She slanted her head minutely. "Obviously, it isn't required that you have to like it. I remember all too clearly your opinion on the Amber/Relic business, Thûllir. I should add that Kaylin knows more about the why, although she does not know nearly everything. Only what was required for her to ask the right questions and turn the ruse into something we could use. And for her part - she has made it plain she would trust you unequivocally with everything she knows. I feel it is important you know that much. However, she has her orders, and you have yours."

Life was ironic.

By offering to take the burden away from Kaylin of trying to sell this to Thûllir for the duration of the ruse, Arnyn had earned Kaylin's loyalty. She'd seen it in the Hyandaner's eyes: that moment when Kaylin had decided Arnyn was someone she could call a friend - and moreover - someone she could follow.
And yet, taking on that same burden would quite possibly cause Thûllir's opinion of Arnyn to fall.

However, when faced with the choice between either endangering a life or having someone's opinion of her take a dive? She'd make the same choice on any day.

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn

Thûllir Bregedŷr
Headquarters - Third week of November

He allowed a slight grunt of amused acknowledgement at Arnyn’s comment that he did not have to like the task and secrecy, just as in the still recent business of Relic. Thûllir twitched his lips slightly when she continued to elaborate. So he was to get all the rest of the details that he was allowed to know from Kaylin, but the Lieutenant was the one to break the news. He did appreciate that she had done so if it was to be an official order, even if he didn’t understand how such a thing could possibly be official business.

Yet Trastion was Arnyn’s particular protege, so it made sense that she would have learned much more about the youth than the rest of them knew, and was further invested in his protection. What had he gotten mixed up in that he required the protection of a cover story? Only part of that question was relevant, and he nodded in acknowledgement of the differing orders. “As you say, Lieutenant. So this time it isn’t just tavern thugs that he’s thumbed his nose at. How long must this ruse remain in place, if I may ask?” Thûllir leaned forward in his seat, wondering if Arnyn would answer or stick with the implied dismissal in her words. Inherent in the order was not just acquiescence with a cover-story, but increased vigilance against an unnamed and unquantified danger once again, although this time the threat was focused on an individual rather than the whole of the Rangers. Was there a known end?

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel

Headquarters, Command Office - Third week of November

Her eye snarrowed minutely. Tavern thugs? Was Thûllir referring to the ones that had been involved in the incident in the First Circle? Or was he talking about a different incident? Was he talking about what Kaylin had referred to when Arnyn had spoken with her and Trastion? Where Kaylin had so pointedly turned Arnyn's words back on her, calling the matter 'irrelevant' as pertaining to their current discussion? The Lieutenant realized that, since neither Kaylin nor Trastion had seemed willing to elaborate, and given that she was just telling Thûllir she couldn't be more forthcoming with him, she assumed he would not be inclined to be very forthcoming with her either. With some effort, she resisted asking what he meant by his comment.

"Not explaining any more also means I cannot tell you yay or nay on the tavern front, or anything else for that matter," was all she did say, with a slight tilt to her lips. "As for how long..." her voice grew more quiet as she shook her head and any hint of a smile faded into oblivion. "I have no timeframe at present." The Lieutenant avoided Thûllir's gaze for the first time since she'd sat back down. Lest he see the depth of her concern in her eyes. But looking away was telling enough for her, in its own ways. "The sooner this ends, the better." That would mean, after all, that the threat to Trastion's life would be over soon. But she could not promise that it would be. Not even to Trastion himself. Her hands were tied until they could find a way to get their hands on some proof. To do this the correct way. The right way. She wanted so much for all of this to end, for Trastion's sake. She did not want this stepfather of his to suceed in his ploys. She did not want Trastion to die. She did not want to lose him.

Steeling herself through sheer force of will, her gaze levelled out again and she lifted it back to Thûllir's. "All I request from you is cooperation in regards to the backstory. It should require little effort on your part. Yes?"

[Karis Ziranphel]

@Arnyn

Thûllir Bregedŷr
Headquarters - Third week of November

For some reason Arnyn’s eyes narrowed at his observation that it was a bigger threat than tavern thugs. Had she thought he was fishing for more information with that? Her reply seemed to indicate it, and he tilted his chin up slightly in acknowledgement of her reiteration that she could not share further, watching her closely with some concern when her smile faded and she shook her head. Arnyn was no longer looking at him as she spoke again, which was uncharacteristic of her to the best of his knowledge.

Thûllir's expression was completely serious when he met her gaze once it lifted to his once more. No matter his personal reservations about this, he had no objections. Giving a slow nod, he replied. “Most likely, yes. I will work with Kaylin on this.” As little as it was likely to be needed, he knew he needed to prepare in depth for his small part in confirming their story, as the smallest slip could often betray such a cover. He didn’t intend to be the source of one. “Was there anything else Lieutenant?”

[Arnyn]

@Karis Ziranphel

Headquarters, Command Office - Third week of November

A nod followed at Thûllir's confirmation. He wouldn't be able to tell, but she was honestly relieved he didn't seem to be making anything more of this. Not that she had expected much of an outward protest. She'd known he'd follow the orders. If he was inwardly upset or even annoyed, though, he was currently hiding it to perfection. All she could deduce was a graveness, a thoughtfulness.

"No, nothing else from me today," she replied to his question. Smiling faintly - mostly in mockery of herself. There were plenty of other issues, alas. Just not any she needed to discuss with the ranger in front of her, at present. "At the moment," she added, the faint smile briefly growing as she expected that the man would find himself called into headquarters a second time, soon enough. "Thank you, Thûllir." And she meant it. "You are free to go." Her gaze stayed on him, to see if he would have any other business of his own before he left.

[Pele Alarion]

@Arnyn , @Karis Ziranphel , @Rillewen , @Isolde Alarion , @Ercassie

Captain Pele Alarion
Headquarters, towards the end of the November

During one of the days she spent at the office, Pele put together a quick notice, summoning the Rangers, though she did not include too much information leaving them guessing as to the reason for gathering. With a great amount of satisfaction and a knowing smile she pinned it to the notice board for people to see:

Attention, Rangers!

Gather here in two days right after breakfast.
Inform those who might not read this.
Don't be late!

Cpt.
Signed

[Arnyn]

Lieutenant Arnyn Dealedwen
Headquarters - End of November

The Lieutenant had no need to guess at the reason for their assembly. She was, by all appearances, completely at ease in the black of the uniform as she walked in at the appointed time, her longsword scabbarded at her hip. Breakfast was running on its last legs in the barracks, but Arnyn had been up a good while. She'd already met Trastion for his morning training session behind the armoury, had cleaned up, had breakfast - and now here she was. This no longer counted as early in the day for her.

She approached the command office, to see if Pele was already there. If she was, Arnyn would wait a while with her. If not, then she'd wait for the others outside of the office.

[Isolde Alarion]

Ranger Mourgan Alarion

He'd read the notice and spread the news as it instructed and now, he was on his way to report also as instructed. He's had an easy breakfast, basically whatever he could carry and eat relatively fast. The note gave no clue what to expect so he washed his meal down with some water and now was leaving the mess hall.

His steps weren't hurried but they did have purpose. Even though there was no stated time he didn't want to the last to arrive. That was always awkward, and you had to catch up on everything which was embarrassing he thought anyways.

He turned the last corner to take him to the Headquarters when he seen a figure up ahead. He could tell from the dress it was the Lieutenant. "Nice to know I'm not the only one that read the notice." He joked with her as he approached, saluting her as he came to a stop. "I would ask if you knew what this is about, but I feel it would be redundant. I'm sure you have an inkling." He grinned at her.

[Arnyn]

Lieutenant Arnyn Dealedwen
Headquarters - End of November

"Hey Mourgan," she greeted him casually, adjusting her own bearing to the relaxed way he greeted her. Well, other than the salute. The right side of her lips curled up into a smile. "Well, if you are already sure, any answer on my part would be just as redundant," she replied smoothly.

"Let's see if your dear aunt is already here. She might take pity on you and lift a tip of the veil." Thus immediately implying that Arnyn herself would do no such thing. Knocking on the door to the command office, the Lieutenant immediately stepped to the side to look back at Mourgan while waiting to see whether a reply would come from within the office.

[Rillewen]

Trainee Trastion Leithor
Headquarters - End of November

Trastion hurried through breakfast, but still managed to eat enough to satisfy him. He had already taken the time to clean up and change into a clean uniform, but his hair was still just a bit damp still from splashing cool, refreshing water on his face and up over his hair, to wash the sweat away.

He smiled as he saw both Arnyn and Mourgan already there. "Morning!" he called cheerily as he entered. "Looks like we beat the crowd here." He mentioned, slightly surprised that they were the first to arrive, but also pleased that he wasn't late or anything.

[Pele Alarion]

Captain Pele Alarion
Headquarters, End of November

While Pele had been toying with a thought of sleeping in to the very last moment before the meeting, she had overcome the wish for allowing herself some laziness and opted for an early morning run, quick wash up and a take-away breakfast that could be eaten at the command office and combined with some other duties without leaving greasy stains on everything. By the time she heard some activity in the main hall with the subsequent knock on the door.

"I was first here!" Pele said in response to the last sentence of Trastion which she heard as she opened the door. A glint of mischief visited her blue eyes, as she left the door wide open to the office which showed no sign of breakfast or of plant care she had managed to make sure that little bit of nature she had insisted should be in the office would prosper and thrive.

"Good morning, people," she said right after to make sure that Rangers knew she hadn't wholly forgotten her manners, and offered a hearty smile, looking at each of the gathered small group in turn. "It is good to know who the early birds are, even though the crowd would most likely not be late when they arrive. Except for some stragglers."

[Ercassie]

Ehtyar Ilisys Azrubêl and Ranger Unalmis Raxëlilta
Answering the Summons, at Headquarters, end of November.

Absent of any specified call or need to present with armour or weapons, neither of the latest two to arrive, had done so. Each was dressed in the neat but more uniform black and white. Unalmis had taken breakfast outside of the Mess that morning, with his friend Xyler. And only met Isys on her way in, for she had not yet moved back into the Barracks. Having a House in the City meant that she could alleviate even in some small way, the crowding that had come of the fire's damage earlier that year. The young man had let the Lady know about the summons, during their most recent session at the Training grounds. There were no details to share beyond that it was 'Captain's orders'. That had been enough.

They were not the first nor the last to arrive. But the young man could not help expressing a triumphant ‘See ?” to the lady as they observed the gathering group already there. Quite what he felt he had just been proven right about, the pair did not debate aloud. Isys nodded once and then joined him in joining the others. Whatever this was about, they would find out when the Captain was ready.

[Arnyn]

Hyandaner Kaylin Maethyr
Headquarters - End of November

She arrived alone. After having pissed off Lieutenant Brian for some reason - when prompted, she claimed not to remember - Kaylin had been assigned a few additional night patrol shifts along the lower walls. There wasn't really enough time for her to eat a decent breakfast at the mess. Breakfast would be running on its last legs now. If she'd go to the mess to try and grab something, settling down on one of the benches, she definitely would be skirting with the line in regards to being on time or being late. Because Kaylin was tired. And rushing wasn't something she had the reserves for at the moment.

Her weariness dimmed her usual energy a little, though she still entered headquarters with enough of it to offer Tras a high five and Mourgan a fist bump to the shoulder in the way of greetings. "Hey everyone," she offered the rest along with a casual grin - and that included Isys. Noting Thûllir wasn't there yet, she cast a glance back over her shoulder toward the entrance. But no. Not yet.

"Suppose asking what we're here for won't do much good until everyone has arrived," she stated rather than asked, a touch of her weariness seeping into her tone as she rested her off hand on the hilt of the sword belted at her hip. Given she had just returned from duty, she was wearing her full gear.

[Isolde Alarion]

Ranger Mourgan Alarion

Headquarters ~End of November

Her answer caused a small chuckle and a smile followed as she continued, stepping back from the door after she knocked on it. He too made a small step back and hearing a greeting he looked over to see Trastion arrive. "Morning Trastion." He returned the greeting and nodded as he agreed about beating the crowd.

Just then he looked back at hearing his Aunts voice as the door opened. "Morning Captain." He saluted her and went to step into the office, giving her a small smile as he past her by. Past her shoulder he could see two others arriving. He recognized Unalmis but it took him a moment longer to remember the woman. Ilisys. The name came to him. He gave them a nod of recognition before stepping fully into the office.

He came to a stand not far from the desk and gave a look around before seeing another very familiar face. Kaylin. He offered her an amused smile at the fist bump she gave him on the shoulder. "Kaylin." He returned as a greeting before setting his feet and crossing his thick arms to settle in. Kaylins words caused a flick of his dark brows in agreement with her sentiment. All he could do was wait now.

[Karis Ziranphel]

Thûllir Bregedŷr
Headquarters - End of November

The door to the office already stood open when Thûllir arrived to answer the vague summons, and he stepped in quietly to note most of their group was present. A brief straightening to attention and tip of his head to the Captain, and then he moved to the side with a relaxed step. He hadn’t been anticipating any other duties until later in the day, so had arrived in the practical dark clothes that he had donned after exercises and cleaning up that morning.

“Good morning, all.” Blue-grey eyes briefly acknowledged each as his low words were addressed to all in general, but after locating Kaylin enough to direct his steps to her side, his gaze settled on Captain Pele. Was there something new since their return?

[Arnyn]

|
Lieutenant Arnyn Dealedwen | Hyandaner Kaylin Maethyr
Headquarters - End of November

"Hey, Taras," she'd greeted Trastion with a genuine smile when he entered. He looked happy, which influenced her own mood further. Moreover, she was pleased to see he was more than on time. As her apprentice, his behaviour reflected on her, as well. "Yes, you beat the crowd. Well done."

The Captain's subsequent greeting made her cast a pointed look with Trastion. Leadership noticed who was early, that look said. Take note. "Good morning, Captain," Arnyn greeted Pele with a faint smile. The Lieutenant kept the smile as she nodded her greetings to Unalmis and Ilisys, who arrived just before Kaylin walked in. Arnyn assessed the hint of dark circles under the Hyandaner's eyes and the full gear. "Kaylin."

Kaylin blinked at Arnyn, seemed to realize she might have forgotten about some expected decorum, and shot her a broad grin. "Lieutenant."

Arnyn smiled back sweetly. "How are those night shifts treating you?"

"Wonderfully," Kaylin said, her tone more than a little sarcastic, even though she did smile at the Lieutenant. When Thûllir entered and found his way to her side, her mood lifted further. Her fingers casually looked for his, giving a soft caress before she locked eyes with him a moment and simply smiled at him to complete her hello.

It was just about to be the time the Captain had requested for everyone to gather.

[Rillewen]

Trainee Trastion Leithor
Headquarters - End of November

Trastion grinned at the captain's teasing comment about being the first one here, and continued the grin in reply to Arnyn's greeting, and nodded to Mourgan. Soon after, he waved when Nal came in. But seeing who he had come in with, Trastion was then glad for a distraction to hopefully keep her from paying too close attention to him. As Kaylin came in shortly behind the other pair, Trastion put up his hand to return the high five, but he couldn't help noticing how weary she looked. He'd heard the tale about how she'd done something to rile Lieutenant Brian, and he was a bit surprised to learn that even though she didn't still abide in the barracks, he could still get her assigned to night duties.

He was very curious about what this might be about, and smiled slightly to himself to remember the last time they'd all been gathered together, how he'd been so sleep-deprived and then hyped up on whatever strong coffee stuff Nal had offered him. He was so glad he wasn't in that condition, today. He could actually focus and pay attention a bit better, now.

---

Tirdinen Duinion Raedor

Quietly, he stepped in and took a glance around to see who else had arrived before him. Duinion had made sure he would not be late, but it could be a bit challenging to know when everyone else had finished breakfast when they were way up on the sixth level and he was down in the Pelennor. So, he'd walked up with Eryn on her way to the houses of healing, then he'd waited until now to enter. After all, he did not wish to be overly early either, so he wouldn't have to spend too much time inside with so many others. After taking note of who all was here already, he gave a small nod of greeting to those of particular note, whom he knew a bit better than others.

Having not known what to expect with the summons, he had dressed in a uniform, and wore his pin as usual. If it turned out to be the summons for a mission, he could easily grab any needed gear quickly after leaving the city. But he also figured that if it was some sort of urgent mission that required being ready to move out immediately, the summons would surely have mentioned that in some manner.

After he had come inside, he moved close to one of the windows and leaned against the wall near it, so that he could still see outside if he glanced out of the window. There were still a few others left to enter, from what he could tell.

[Pele Alarion]

Cadil - no Recruit yet or anything - and Captain Pele Alarion
Headquarters, End of November

He appeared at the door of the Headquarters and froze for a moment on the doorstep when he found himself facing a room filled with people, considering the idea of stepping back out as if he had entered only by mistake. He had apparently turned up at the wrong moment; and yet - had he not been asked to arrive this day and at this time? Cadil's brown eyes looked around at the people gathered and then landed on Pele, meeting her blue eyes straight on. Taking the slight head movement as an indication that he should remain, the young man closed the door behind him and tried to find a place where he could remain somewhat unnoticed and not be in the way.

"Right," Pele said eventually to draw attention when it seemed to her that most had arrived and the time was right.

"Rangers, I have called you together for a very weighty reason, though the note on the board did not state much more than that," she kept the matter concealed for a moment longer, as she paused with a mere shadow of a smile lingering on her face, as she looked around, having raised her right index finger as if about to reveal an important idea.

[Karis Ziranphel]

Karis Ziranphel
Headquarters - End of November

Wedding preparations had already begun before the return of the patrol group, and the date they had set was nearing, so Ziran's steps had been a little slower than usual as she walked the distance to headquarters while she thought through the tasks she had to complete along with her regular duties that week. It was quite a bit to manage in the handful of weeks they had given themselves to coordinate and arrange the celebrations before Midwinter so that they were near that event without being so close as to overlap.

A slight smile tilted her lips when she slipped in the door behind Cadil and saw those assembled. It was good to see the room full again as they had all returned safely and had time to decompress in the intervening days. Right. The word came from the front of the room and immediately drew Ziran’s focused and serious attention. She didn’t show it outwardly, but felt a hint of suspicion at the amusement that showed on the Captain’s face in contrast to her announcement of some weighty topic. As she knew well, when officers showed amusement there was a high chance that it would be fun to watch and less fun to go through whatever came next. Tilting her head slightly in curiosity, Ziran listened for whatever Pele chose to reveal about her summons.

[Pele Alarion]

Captain Pele Alarion
Headquarters, End of November

The Captain looked around to see that everyone was indeed paying attention, enjoyed a moment of keeping everyone suspicious, and then proceeded to speak.

"The weighty reason I mentioned is to celebrate one of us who has shown himself very skilled in subtle undercover work, tracking, survival..." she said, and then pointed to a spot next to her.

"Thûllir, come on here. It is you I was referring to. You have more than earned your place among Tirdinen."

[Arnyn]

Hyandaner Kaylin Maethyr
Headquarters - End of November

She'd raised a hand in greeting to Duinion when he'd come in, and had glanced over her shoulder to Cadil when she heard the door shutting. The look she gave him was curious indeed, but he did not seem willing to offer explanations, rather content to try and merge with the wall, instead.

Pele's words served to distract her from Karis' oh so sneaky and quiet entrance. Kaylin didn't trust the situation at all, because the Captain's words were serious, but the way she held up that finger... reminded her of a certain former drill sergeant... more specifically when that drill sergeant had been up to no good.

When Pele finally spilled the beans, Kaylin's dubious expression lit up completely, and she wordlessly squeezed Thûllir's fingers with her own before letting go. He'd been summoned to the Captain's side.

[Rillewen]

Trainee Trastion Leithor
Headquarters - End of November

Trastion was surprised to see Cadil step through the door, and wondered what that was about. He'd only met the guy once, at the Wayfarer, but he'd thought he seemed like an alright guy. He waved briefly to him with a friendly smile, while wondering if the other guy would even quite remember him.

Whatever the case, Trastion soon turned his attention back to the captain as she began to speak and revealed that it was for a weighty reason that they were gathering together. He listened up, wondering if they were about to be called to go on another mission, and began thinking about what it could be this time. Hearing then, that it was for the sake of someone getting promoted, he was quite glad to hear that it was something good, and not bad. He was glad to hear that it was Thullir, too. Glancing toward Thullir, he began clapping for him, although he cast a quick glance around to see if he was going to be the only one to do so.. if so, he would stop after a moment, but if others joined in, he would be more enthusiastic about it.

---

Tirdinen Duinion Raedor

A weighty reason? Duinion's gaze remained on Pele as she spoke, and he wondered what it could be about. He was waiting to hear that they were being summoned to go and fight some enemy, or do something that would involve much danger, possibly traveling away from the city, and so forth. Yet, as she paused, he narrowed his eyes slightly as he tried to decide if that was a hint of a smile lingering on her face. He'd chosen to position himself further away, so it was a bit harder to tell, but he wondered.

Soon, she revealed that one of them had done specific deeds, earning himself a special ranking. The same as Duinion. His interest was piqued, and soon the recipient was named. Thullir, that was Kaylin's husband, but Duinion had not worked with him before. And, in fact, he wasn't sure he had spoken with him before. He should, he told himself, reminding himself of his intentions to not be so withdrawn. With a little smile, he joined in with the applause begun by Trastion.

[Ercassie]

Ehtyar Ilisys Azrubêl and Ranger Unalmis Raxëlilta
Answering the Summons, at Headquarters, end of November.

When Cadil entered the Headquarters, it took all the resolve that he owned for Unalmis not to run over and speak with him at once ! He was that enthused to see his friend, here, at last. Was this the cause for the summons ? He, for one, certainly felt it was worth attending for.

Then the Captain addressed what she called a 'wait-y' matter, and the young man hesitated. Waited, if you like. Until Pele clarified the true cause for their gathering. A promotion, for the Ranger Thullir.

Unalmis knew the name by now, though not really the man. The most vibrant recollection he had was of the new Tirdinen catching berries hurtled through the air into his mouth ! It had been so impressive a feat of course that the younger Ranger had employed Eryn's help for the several months since, trying to master the skill themselves. So the new Tirdinen was definitely worth applause, which Nal did not even need to begin for of course others had already. So he simply joined in.

Isys was not at all familiar with the Ranger whom they'd rallied to applaude. She had not infiltrated the Rangers as a whole enough to engage with him, or countless others yet, although she'd heard he was Kaylin's husband, and a glance in that direction confirmed it, by the reactions being offered to the one at her side.

The Belfalasian had not been at all familiar with Duinion either, when he had been promoted to this speciality. And having learnt since that it had a lot to do with stealth and secrecy, that was the only explanation she required to join the applause as well. For certainly this quiet, unobtrusive breed of Rangers were masters of their craft to go so overlooked. It was nice to see the overlooked then gain the attention of .. the entire room ! If only to encourage them out of the shadows to be recognised by their fellows.

[Karis Ziranphel]

Thûllir Bregedŷr & Karis Ziranphel
Headquarters - End of November

Celebration. He let the words filter but still wasn’t quite expecting to hear his name called by Captain Pele. Kaylin’s squeezing his hand signaled him to move, and he returned it with a glance and a soft smile at her before striding forward swiftly and smoothly to make his way to the front and then center himself in front of Captain Pele. Halting at attention, he saluted with fist to his chest, and then stepped to the spot she had indicated and settled into a position of parade rest. The swell of applause was heart-warming and slightly surprising, and his words were spoken quietly to the officer under the sound. “Thank you, Captain.”

A different type of mischievousness. Ziran’s grin broke out when she finally heard where Pele was going with her reason for gathering. Relaxing her stance to join the others in applause, she knew a little how much this designation meant to her cousin, more so from what he had previously needed to do to earn it, but it was still a name given additional honor and which hinted to the skills of the ones who bore it.

[Pele Alarion]

Captain Pele Alarion
Headquarters, End of November

Pele responded with a crisp salute of her own to one offered by Thûllir and then joined the applause briefly, satisfaction and joy reflected on her face, though only a shadow of what she would let show in other circumstances.

"I think you are a Tirdinen of the finest quality," she said, turning to Thûllir and producing a badge to pin to his shoulder with practiced ease. "Trusting you to watch my back and backs of other Rangers, and I am sure that I will not be disappointed. I appreciate your attention to detail and effort in doing your best."

"What do you think, Rangers?" she asked, turning back to others, and made a vague movement with her hand, inviting encouragements and congratulations. Meanwhile her glance sought out Cadil once again as she wondered if she should draw public attention to him or perhaps let him chat with others he surely knew before calling him into the office.

[Arnyn]

|
Lieutenant Arnyn Dealedwen | Hyandaner Kaylin Maethyr
Headquarters - End of November

Arnyn resisted shaking her head as Pele decided to play her little game. She also managed to hide the little smile that wanted to break out. Leaning against the wall with one shoulder,armsleisurely crossed, one ankle hooked over the other, the Lieutenant watched the proceedings. When the Captain called Thûllir forward, she let the smile do as it would, though, and she shifted her weight to both feet, moving away from the wall and approaching Kaylin while Thûllir stepped forward. Arnyn claimed a spot next to the red-headed Hyandaner even as Trastion started with his applause, and the others joined in. Arnyn was no exception.

Kaylin grinned at the Lieutenant as the latter came to stand next to her whilst clapping. Joining in with the applause for her husband. When Captain Pele asked for their opinion, Kaylin couldn't help but chuckle. "Overdue?" she attempted some humor, with a complete lack of apology on her face as she first glanced at the Captain, then Thûllir and then the Lieutenant by her side.

Arnyn grinned. "Congratulations, Thûllir!" she stated loud enough for most if not all to hear her. "The most recent mission more than proved your skills. We are glad to have you with us."

"And not just in the capacity of Tirdinen," Kaylin added happily, her tone quite different from before.

[Pele Alarion]

Captain Pele Alarion
Headquarters, End of November

"This was a celebratory important matter," Pele spoke again, and the joy and a bit of mischievousness that had lit her blue eyes turned to seriousness. "But there is a different matter as well to be discussed. Of a different character."

She looked towards Arnyn and lowered her chin slightly as if in a nod.

"Lieutenant Dealedwen will introduce you to that other matter."

[Karis Ziranphel]

Thûllir Bregedŷr & Karis Ziranphel
Headquarters - End of November

Thûllir kept his features serious and impassive as Captain Alarion pinned the badge of a Tirdinen on his shoulder, dipping his head in quiet thanks and appreciation for her words of encouragement. He heard what sounded like his wife’s voice when he turned to face the assembled rangers, but it was probably just as well that he didn’t quite catch whatever it was she said in such a humorous tone.

Lieutenant Dealedwen’s words were louder and much more clear, bringing a smile to Thûllir’s face finally, which shifted to a grin when Kaylin called out again. Not one for speeches, his response was to salute the assembly with a tap of his fist to his chest below the new badge in thanks, a quick turn to come to attention again, and then stepped back and returned across the room as the noise died down. Along the way he nodded to Trastion, Ilisys, Nal, and Duinion, before retaking his spot beside Kaylin with a shoulder nudge.

As he did so, Captain Pele began to speak again with a more serious tone, so he remained silent as he turned his attention to the Lieutenant by Kaylin’s other shoulder. What different matter and character might she be referencing? Sensing the shift in mood from those in command, Thûllir’s face took on a sober cast as his fingers sought and curled around Kaylin’s.

Karis Ziranphel had moved herself from where she had been waiting to come up behind him and slightly off to the side. Her words were a soft murmur as she reached up to place her hands on his shoulders and give them a light squeeze. “Congratulations, Cousin Tirdinen Thûllir.” He turned his head briefly to grin at her briefly as she gave his shoulders a final pat and then moved away to also listen for whatever the matter might be.

[Rillewen]

|
Trainee Trastion Leithor | Tirdinen Duinion Raedor
Headquarters - End of November

As the captain spoke her words of congratulations to Thullir, pinning the badge to his shoulder, both Trastion and Duinion added their applause to the rest. The former was a bit more enthusiastic than the latter, but no less heartfelt.

As the newly appointed Tirdinen returned to his place among the assembly, Trastion grinned in response to the nod, figuring that since now was probably not the time to be talking and congratulating him verbally, the grin would have to do. The captain seemed to be moving on to another matter, so he ended his applause, and folded his arms instead, ready to listen, and gave his whole attention to Arnyn as she prepared to address them.

Duinion nodded back in return to Thullir, and made a mental note to go speak to him after the captain was finished here. But whatever was coming now, he was curious. When she turned the floor over to the lieutenant, Duinion found her among the crowd, standing next to Kaylin. What was this to be about? A part of him had a vague suspicion what it could be about, but he wasn't willing to jump to any conclusions or assumptions. It seemed best to wait to find out what she would say.

[Arnyn]

@Pele Alarion @Ercassie @Rillewen @Isolde Alarion @Karis Ziranphel

Lieutenant Arnyn Dealedwen
Headquarters - End of November

Even if it made sense in almost every way for her to be the spokesperson on this different matter, that did not mean Arnyn was looking forward to it. She did not enjoy anything about this particular matter, and this was no exception. Yet necessity required it of her, and she had always been one to readily submit to her sense of responsibility. Yet, when the Captain gave her the floor, Arnyn was reluctant to step forward. Rather than doing so - and creating more of a distance between her and the other rangers - the Lieutenant remained where she was. Besides, it was hardly required for her to move anymore, since the brief silence she left was already causing others to reposition themselves, to a lesser or greater degree, to get a better look at her.

Her voice was clear and level as she spoke up, so everyone in the room would be able to hear her. "Some of you are already aware that I have been given and gathering information concerning the slave trade," she began, having no intention of drawing this out any longer than she must. "Though it will be news to most of you." Her eyes briefly found Trastion's. Despite all the time they spent together on training, despite their connection, she had not breathed a single word of it to him so far. Out of everyone, he might be the one who would be most surprised by this.

"Abductions and pirate raids on our shores, sponsored by Umbar, have always been a problem," she continued, "King Elessar's actions against the corsairs before and during the War of the Ring did decimate their numbers and caused their ships to dwindle into near nothingness - but unfortunately it was not enough to put a complete end to the abductions on Gondorian soil. Umbar may have yielded to our King in openly spoken words, but many of their key players have not done so in actions. Our kin to the south, Belfalas especially, are all too aware of that," Arnyn added, as her gaze briefly sought out Isys. "And they have never faltered in their efforts to defend their people - our people - from such raids and actions."

"Yet their goal has always been difficult to tackle, for the Umbarians and their associates operate in increasingly clever and clandestine ways." Which had given her more than one headache. "After all that I have learned, however, I believe we are in a hereto unprecedented position. A position in which we have the means to strike at them. Strike hard. With possibly very lasting results."

"I have information that could enable us to attack and overcome the foremost, and possibly only, pirate ship that is still smuggling slaves all over the coastline of Middle Earth." She paused, to let that sink in for a moment. And was almost tempted to smile faintly as she realized that she'd just made a mental pun. Seriously. "Which, in turn, could also enable us to sail to Umbar. And take out most of the key players who keep the slave trade going."

"However - that is exactly where the matter becomes, for lack of a better word, tricky." The Lieutenant tilted her chin up minutely. "No mission is ever a sure thing, as you all know. And the risk involved in this mission, as well, would be... substantial. The odds would not lie in our favor. Every step of the way, there would be countless things that could go wrong. And which could cost some, most or all of us, our lives."
She rested her left hand on the pommel of her sword. "Many of us were involved in missions before the culmination of the war. Fought battles during the end of the war. We always knew our lives could be forfeit. But those were battles fought on our soil. Against a threat that sought to either completely subjugate or obliterate us." Arnyn looked around the room. "This mission would be different. We would go beyond the borders that we've always seen as our own. We would be going to the seas. And we would be going to Umbar. To strike at enemies, yes, but at enemies without the power to completely dominate us even if they wanted to."

"Many might argue, therefore, that the risk and possible cost of such a mission, would not be worth the results of possible success." Obviously, she did not feel that way, but she deliberately did not put words to that - however much she wanted to - in a valiant attempt to adhere to the King's orders and not influence any of the others. "Participation in the mission is, therefore, on a voluntary basis. You may each decide for yourselves whether you wish to participate, or whether you wish to stay here to guard our own lands."

And then, onto the specifics of this decision - or rather, by what time they would need to be making it. One that each of them would have to make for themselves. "You do not have to decide today, although you may if you wish. You may also take the time to think or to talk of the undertaking of a dangerous mission at home. What will not be allowed is sharing the exact nature of the mission beyond the people within these walls today."
"I wish for an accurate tally in ten days' time, for we will not be undertaking the mission at all if we do not have the numbers for it to have any chance at success. You are always welcome with questions or concerns, present time included, though I cannot promise I will always be able to answer them."

[Rillewen]

|
Trainee Trastion Leithor | Tirdinen Duinion Raedor
Headquarters - End of November

When the lieutenant began to speak from where she was, Duinion shifted his stance to face toward her, mildly surprised that she had not come to stand with the captain, but then she could speak just as well from where she was, so why not? As he heard what the topic was about, he mentally agreed that yes.. it was a much weightier subject indeed. Recalling the events from the beginning of September, he was not all that surprised to learn that the lieutenant had been gathering information about these matters. In fact, she must have been looking into those matters for a while now, as he remembered many things that had come up during the search for Eryn that he had expected to come as a surprise to her, but it had not. She clearly already knew a great deal about this, even then. He subtly cast his gaze around the room, curious who else might be showing surprise or a lack of surprise.

Trastion blinked as he listened to the lieutenant. How had this never come up? How long had she been working on this? He frowned slightly as he listened to her speaking about how she had been gathering information. Making plans. He had been training with her daily, which included a lot of talking together at times, and somehow not a word of this had slipped out. Impressive, he thought, that she would keep all of this so well guarded. Just as she would guard a secret, he mentally added.

As she went on to insist that the mission would be on a voluntary basis, Duinion was inwardly surprised. That was unusual, at least from what he was used to. While she continued to talk about the matter, he began considering that. As she said, some would need to remain behind to make sure their own lands were safe. After all.. suppose they went off on this mission, and another invading force came into Gondor? He felt a bit torn, therefore. This was going to take some deciding. Whether to stay behind and personally ensure that his family and country were safe, or to go along and help ensure that his fellow rangers and friends were safe, entrusting his family's safety to those who remained behind? It was a relief to hear that they had several days to decide, for that gave him plenty of chance to talk with his family and his closest friends.

Trastion was thinking a lot about this as the lieutenant talked. They had only recently returned from the mission in Linhir. He was curious about several things, so when the lieutenant mentioned that questions and concerns were welcome, he hesitated for a moment, partly to make sure that she was done talking, before he tentatively raised his hand. "So.. what is the plan for getting there?" He asked, having a suspicion of what the answer would be, since she had mentioned Belfalas, but he wanted to check for sure. "And, you mentioned ten days," He went on with a second question. "Does that mean whoever goes on this mission will be leaving in like, a couple of weeks?" He frowned a bit, unsure if that meant they'd be leaving that soon. It felt like they'd only just got back from the Linhir matter, and then the midwinter ball was in about a month's time, so if they were leaving in a couple of weeks, that would almost have to mean that whoever went on this mission would not get back in time for that. And he'd already sort of gotten excited about going after learning it was a masquerade... although if he was needed for this, he would go.

[Arnyn]

Lieutenant Arnyn Dealedwen
Headquarters - End of November

Arnyn assessed Tras' expression. "Let me answer those question in reverse," she said. It would make more sense that way, to most.

"The Captain and I are not about to send you into a mission like this without the proper preparations."

"Targeting a ship means those preparations include that we will be taking you out to the sea. To grow used to the water as well as the ship. The pirate ship in question is a stolen Swan ship. Lord Abrazimir Dimaethor has pledged his participation in ths endeavour." The Lieutenant glanced at Isys again, but soon her attention returned to Trastion - for this was important for him, too. Would he risk recognition by Abrazimir? "His men have done the same. His warship - a Swan ship as well - will be used for training. So that we may learn the layout. The way it functions. How we are fare at sea. How to board an enemy vessel. How to defend one."

"The actual mission will only take place when spring is upon us, so no, we will not be leaving for long months. However, I require a tally to estimate whether the mission is viable. And if it is, so I may proceed with the preparations."

"The plan is to neutralize the pirate ship first. Depending on how that goes, we would soon thereafter sail to Umbar. Either by means of the pirate vessel, or the Dimaethor warship." Or both. It all depended on how things would turn out.

[Pele Alarion]

Captain Pele Alarion, and also Cadil
Headquarters, End of November

Pele held her peace as she now stood back, arms folded, while attention was mostly turned towards Arnyn and the information she shared. And while the Captain's posture might have suggested idleness and perhaps even disinterest, she was quite busy behind it - she evaluated the manner of how the Lieutenant presented the information and how much of it was shared, and she watched the Rangers to see their first reactions to such a possible task.

"It would be foolish indeed to head straight for the nest of vipers unprepared," Pele spoke up, after Arnyn had addressed Trastion's questions. "And even with all due preparations it might go wrong at any given moment." She paused for a while in thought, and then continued: "If you are afraid and you know that fear would take you over to the point where you would end up bringing discouragement to your comrades or would be prone to acting unreasonably - I would suggest that you stay at home. And also, if you were to burn to ashes in the heat of revenge for any wrong Umbar has caused to you or your loved ones - do not go, for others might burn down with you."

The Captain was now standing tall, no longer in the leisurely posture she had assumed previously. "In this, we would have to rely on each other and work together much more so than in other missions," she provided positive statements to counter the previous negative ones. "Do join in if you believe that you are able and willing to put others before any of your ambitions, fears and similar of your own, and if you think..."

"I will go!" Cadil exclaimed suddenly, interrupting anything else Pele was wanting to say. The next moment he regretted that he had not held his tongue and had spoken out of turn, and a deep blush swiftly crept up his face as he ducked his head and tried to make himself invisible. Perhaps he had just now destroyed the only chance he had to show that he was any good.

Pele shook her head slightly as her keen gaze sought out the young man who was trying his best to hid behind some taller Rangers.

"You will go, Cadil? I thought you had to make a different decision first, no? It was for that I called you in here in the first place," she chided him half-amused, half-serious. "You seem eager to express your opinion on something that does not apply to you just yet, though."

"I'd say, don't take your decision in haste, Rangers; make use of those ten days if you need to, and ask all the questions you have. As the Lieutenant said, we'll provide answers if we have them," she addressed the whole audience once more.