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

[Arnyn]

Continued from the Ithilien thread

@Rillewen

Kaylin
Osgiliath, west bank

"Not a chance, Erynneth," Kaylin interjected before Baerden or Torgen could say anything. "You are staying with me, end of discussion." She wasn't about to let the girl out of her sight until she brought her back home safely. Baerden picked up on the finality of Kaylin's tone, but added an argument rather than simply saying no: "You don't know your way around, Eryn. It will be faster if Torgen goes." He looked at the man and nodded his head. They did not need further words between them, and Torgen sped off somewhere.
Baerden had Kaylin put an arm over his shoulder and took much of her weight on him. "Come," he told the two women. "Torgen will know to bring our healer to my place. He can take a look at you there."

Once arrived at the house where they had slept just the previous night, Baerden sat Kaylin down on the downstairs table.

"Don't you eat here, man?" she asked.

He shrugged. "No need to feel special, K. You're not the first to be treated on it." He knelt by acupboard to pull out a bottle of brandy and three glasses. He poured three servings, and handed one to Kaylin. "For the pain."
He glanced at Eryn. "Would you like one, Eryn? It helps with the nerves." She seemed pretty stressed to him. And old enough to have a glass, if she so chose. He picked up the third glass himself, taking a sip as they waited. Meanwhile, Kaylin knocked back her drink in a single go. She knew more or less what to expect, and one glass wasn't going to cut it. "Another," she said, a bit hoarsely as the liquid was still going down. Being brandy, it wasn't exactly weak stuff. Baerden refilled the glass she was holding out.

Torgen returned with another man shortly thereafter. He introduced himself as Hirgond, but wasted no further time with pleasantries. He took a look at where the knife was, and frowned. "You'll need to take off that leather jerkin once the knife is out." She untied the straps in preparation as he told her she was to then lie on the table face down, with some folded blankets under her stomach to bring her lower back up enough to work on easily.

Muttering with some displeasure at being ordered around, Kaylin threw back the rest of her second glass of brandy when she was done with the straps, and did as she was told. Warmth from the drinks was spreading throughout her body, and her mind felt a bit like she would on a rocky boat. She was weary, and the combination with the wound was making the quickly consumed brandy have more of an effect than it might have had otherwise.

Hirgond was laying out some things on the table. Then Kaylin felt him taking a hold of the knife.

"Try to keep still," he said.

She braced herself, clenching her teeth together. He pulled the knife from her back. Kaylin was breathing out as he did so, and honestly it wasn't all that bad. She heard the knife thumping onto the wooden table and felt Hirgond pressing something down onto the wound. He tilted his chin at Eryn. "Girl. Help her out of the jerkin."

He only removed pressure from the wound for the briefest time frame: long enough to get the jerkin out of the way and push up her shirt away from the wound. His eyes fell on the other, more superficial knife wound, not too far away from the one which had drawn his immediate attention. "You failed to mention there was another one," he noted noncommittally. "Not as bad though. Baerden. You keep pressure on this one. In the meantime I can tend to the other already." He waited for Baerden to move over.

Cleaning out a wound was never fun, and Kaylin soon found out Hirgond didn't have the softest touch. She made a face as he cleaned the minor wound by flushing it with water but apparently also needed to rub out a bit of dirt. He didn't explain much as he worked, but he warned her before the needle. Kaylin swore mentally. She'd hoped only the larger wound would have needed stitching.
While the alcohol probably helped in reducing the pain, she still felt the needle piercing through her skin every time. She winced a lot at first, but finally just closed her eyes and braced herself continually. She soon felt something sticky and room temperature being placed over the wound. Relaxing with the relief of knowing she wouldn't feel the needle for at least a few minutes, Kaylin took a slow and deep breath. In between it all, her eyes looked for Eryn and she gave her friend a strangely convincing smile and a little nod. There was little time for much else, however, as she already felt Baerden moving away and Hirgond starting to flush the bigger wound. Kaylin closed her eyes and braced herself again.

It would have been better to black out. Alas, she didn't.

When Hirgond was done, Kaylin was sweating and her eyes and face were wet with silent tears. To her credit, she hadn't made a sound, choosing silence. While she probably wouldn't have done so had Eryn not been present, in which case she would have likely chosen to curse and growl part of the paun away, she didn't want the girl to be any more concerned than she already would be. Kaylin fought her own body as it started trembling slightly now the effort was behind her and HIrgond was bandaging her up. The bandage was tight, as she knew it would have to be.

"Thanks," she mumbled at Hirgond.
He shook his head as he fastened the bandage. "Dn't mention it. You will have to take it easy for a while."
She huffed.
Hirgond sighed. "I was told you're from the White City. The houses of healing would tell you the same, and probably enforce stricter rules than I would."
Kaylin scowled. "Great."
He laughed. "Get some rest here first, before you go back. And no walking or riding back. You'll need proper transportation." He turned to Baerden. "Do we have anyone going back for supplies?"
Baerden shrugged. "Torgen was going tomorrow. But I could take over from him, and leave today." He looked at Eryn and Kaylin. "What do you think?"

Kaylin sighed. "I might as well rest in a wagon or a cart." Resting up in a strange house first and then being forced to lie in a wagon of some sort all the way back to Minas Tirith sounded like worse torture than the stitching, for some reason. Might as well kill two birds with one stone, right? "What do you think, Eryn?"

[Romeran]

An Unexpected Delay
Ranger Trainee Romeran
At the Gates of Minas Tirith
@Pele Alarion
@Rillewen
(Open to All)

"I hadn't planned on taking too long" he said although soon realized he wasn't exactly sure how long it would take and so decided to clarify "I was going to head to the west gate and then south along the Rammas to the southern road back to the city. I don't expect it to take more than a few hours, but I suppose I haven't actually done it before" Romeran had no other plans for the day so he had decided it wasn't essential that he knew exactly how long the journey would take as he was quite confident it would take less than the entire day at least.

As Romeran was talking he noticed that a young man approached also on horseback and smiled and waved at, presumably, Captain Pele. Romeran smiled and stopped speaking, he waved to the young man and turned to Pele. Daisy tapped the ground with her front hoof and snorted showing that she recognized the new comers but that she wasn't particularly concerned. Romeran patted her gently on the side approvingly, Romeran had always preferred mellow horses.

"I don't suppose you know our friend here?" he asked Pele, motioning to Trastion and then turning to him.

"I'm Romeran a trainee in the Rangers, trying to convince the Captain to join me on a short patrol around the southern Rammas" he offered, the man appeared genuine and was coming from the city. For a moment, Romeran wondered whether or not he should have said as much, perhaps the man could have been a spy. But then again he was already talking out loud to the Captain about his plans and anyone could have overheard, he sighed quietly in relief.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Erynneth
Osgiliath, West Bank


Eryn was a little surprised to hear Kaylin insist that she would stay within her sight. It caught her a bit by surprise, and she merely nodded and didn't try to argue. Besides, Baerden had a good point, and so she kept quiet as Torgen ran off to get the healer person. Still feeling a bit helpless, she tagged along with the other two as they headed for Baerden's house. All sorts of thoughts and worries began to flood in, now that there were others more capable than her, and she didn't have to focus on getting them back to safety. It took her a couple of seconds to realize Baerden had spoken to her, and blinked as she looked up and saw that he had poured three glasses. It took a moment to register that he'd asked if she wanted some of...whatever he'd poured. Looking at the glass, she hesitated before absently picking it up, though she stared at it for a moment before actually trying a small sip. She wasn't sure what to expect, really, but the taste wasn't very pleasant to her, and she was glad she hadn't taken a bigger sip.

A tiny bit of relief came over her as the healer finally arrived. Hirgond, she tried to remember, though she wasn't sure if it made any difference, really. Eryn set the glass down and tried to pay attention to what Hirgond was saying, and what he would do. Hearing something about putting some folded blankets down, Eryn snatched up the nearest blanket and started to fold it, hoping to be helpful in some manner, wanting to eliminate the feeling of helplessness that nagged at her. Hirgond was about to take out the knife, and Eryn held her breath, unsure what to expect. Would blood start squirting out? How quickly would they have to work on her to keep her from bleeding to death? Would they be able to keep her alive?

The moment he gave instructions for her to help Kaylin, Eryn jumped forward, abandoning the folded blanket in her hands on the table as she hurried to do as he said. She wanted to ask, every few seconds, 'Will she be alright?' but refrained. It would likely only annoy everyone, she had the presence of mind to consider that. She kept quiet as she helped Kaylin out of the jerkin. Feeling like her stomach kept twisting up into more and more knots, Eryn stepped back and watched as the men began to work on Kaylin's injury. Injuries, actually. She hadn't realized there were more than one, either!

For a moment, she could almost imagine she was nine years old again, waiting anxiously outside while the healer was with her mother, and there was nothing Eryn could do to help her. Closing her eyes for a moment, Eryn remembered how devastated her father had been when she died, and the nights he used to sit outside by her grave, not moving even when it rained, refusing to eat... how worried and afraid Eryn had been that he might join her mother.

Kaylin had a husband, Eryn suddenly remembered from some of their earlier chatting. She didn't know much about him, but he must love her very much. How would he react, if Kaylin didn't get through this? He would be within his rights to blame Eryn for it, she figured. She probably would, too, since it was because of her that they had gone out there in the first place. Forcing a slow inhale, followed by a slower exhale, Eryn opened her eyes again and looked to see how Kaylin was doing, and was just in time to see her friend smile and nod to her, as if to say that she would be just fine, and everything would be alright. But would it? She managed a weak smile back, then risked a glance toward Kaylin's back, noticing that they were only just now getting to the main wound. Why didn't they deal with that one first? She was confused.. it clearly was more serious than the other one.

She still had Kaylin's jerkin in her hands, she realized after a moment, and had been clutching it and twisting up the part she was holding, without realizing it. Laying it aside, she tried to smooth it back out, and wrapped her arms around herself, trying not to be so nervous as she waited. It seemed like it took ages before Hirgond was finally finished with Kaylin, and tying up the bandage. "Will she be alright?" The words finally escaped, her voice sounding small and frightened. She bit her lip, wishing she was stronger, like Kaylin. She was beyond impressed by how the ranger never made a sound through all that. Eryn knew that she wouldn't have been that tough, in her place.

Her attention was diverted away from her admiration of Kaylin, as she heard them discussing plans about getting back home to the city. She expected that they would make the decisions about it among themselves, so she was a little surprised when her opinion was asked. Glancing at Kaylin, she hesitated, unsure how much she ought to be traveling just yet. She was half-tempted to suggest they stay overnight and go along with the supply wagon tomorrow as it had planned to go, but maybe it would be better if Kaylin got to the houses of healing sooner, so leaving today might be best. "If it's safe enough to travel in a wagon today, we could get to the houses of healing quicker," She mentioned, in favor of that.. so long as it wouldn't cause the injury to get worse by traveling too soon.

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen

Kaylin
Osgiliath, west bank

Hirgond's expression was rather neutral when he responded to Erynneth's question. "She should be alright. Provided it doesn't get infected." The reply of a learned man, but he realized by the look on Eryn's face he should add some nuance. "But even if it does, her chances would still be good if they catch it early."

His sympathy was at an end, however, when he noticed everyone else in the room was making plans for the ladies to return to Minas Tirith that same day. "Are you lot deaf? I said she needed to rest, first - and only then leave." He shook his head. "Honestly, Baerden, even you?" A sigh. "I will be more explicit, since it seems necessary." He looked Kaylin in the eyes. "You are not going anywhere today. Today, you will sit and you will lie down, and I do not care if you will be bored out of your mind. You are my patient and I am telling you to rest. If need be, I will sit in the same room for the rest of the day. I won't have your wound getting worse because you are too impatient, and then have it reflect badly on my skills." He glared at Baerden. "You can take her back tomorrow." Shaking his head again, he nodded at Eryn. "The girl is the only one who seemed to have some worry about it perhaps being too early to travel. Looks like she has the most sense."

He crossed his arms. "So, what will it be? Do I need to babysit you?"

Kaylin returned his glare. "No, no. You've made your point." The look in her eyes softened, realizing he was only trying to help. "Look, I apologize. Thank you for helping me and for... clarifying your instructions about resting before travel. I'm very grateful for your help, Hirgond." The tone of her voice was genuine, and Hirgond seemed somewhat appeased. He nodded. "Very well. I will return in the late evening to switch out your bandage. Kay, was it?"

"Kaylin Maethyr," she said, holding out a hand.
He clasped it briefly. "Well met." Hirgond turned to Erynneth. "And what is your name?"

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Erynneth
Osgiliath, West Bank


Letting out a soft sigh of relief, Eryn nodded quietly as Hirgond assured her that Kaylin should be alright. And then, fidgeted as he grumbled at them for suggesting that Kaylin leave today. She wanted to speak up and mention that she'd started to mention that it might be better to wait til tomorrow, but he'd probably assume she just said that to sound better. But then he mentioned something about her being more sensible, and managed a tiny smile, though she didn't feel like she had been that much better. Having assumed that Baerden and Kaylin knew more about such things than her, she hadn't really protested about returning home today, rather than tomorrow.

Looking from Kaylin to Hirgond as they spoke, Eryn wondered if Kaylin was actually going to defy the healer's orders, and how she might convince her to rest up a while. She was on the verge of speaking up, when Kaylin finally relented, much to Eryn's relief. She smiled slightly, relaxing. "I'll be here, so we can chat while you're resting," She said to Kaylin, figuring that might help the time pass less boringly.

She was caught off guard when Hirgond turned to her and asked her name. Several thoughts briefly flitted through her mind as she paused for a second, considering. Should she give him her real name? If the tale of today's events were passed on, her father might hear about it, and she would be in big trouble. But then, just as quickly as that occurred to her, she remembered that Baerden and several others she'd met last night had already been told her name. She should've thought of it sooner. "Eryn, sir." She answered softly, holding out her hand politely.

"Umm... This was supposed to be a sort of..secret mission type of thing, however, so it would be greatly appreciated if our names were not repeated in association with what happened, today." She added, nervously, but in hope that maybe the tale would not reach her father's ears, and cast a glance toward Baerden as well, wondering if they would go along with this request.

[Pele Alarion]

@Romeran , @Rillewen
An Unexpected Journey

Pele bit on her lip lightly, as she turned the horse to look back out at the scenery she had seen countless times and yet had never wearied of seeing. The sky lit with the beauty of sun making its way up, wisps of rising mist from the stream a little ways off in the field. The water could not be seen, yet she knew very well that the stream was there.

"Wait... west gate?" the Captain considered Romeran's plans and looked at him with her eyebrow raised. "Have you discovered entrance to the secret passages leading straight into the mountain that everyone whispers about? Or did you mean the east gate?" Her blue eyes glinted with amusement, as she gently ran her hand along Temper's neck. Even the most capricious horses liked gentleness at times. "Though I could join you, in hopes of being back before late evening: distances to the outer walls can be deceiving sometimes, it is likely to take more than a couple hours."

It seemed that they were not the only ones out enjoying some riding, as Trastion then appeared in the gate, leading out a horse, and looked as if he was about to sneak by them without as much as a word. At least Romeran addressed him then, spoiling any plans of quiet escape if the newest recruit had any.

"It turns out that I just happen to know him, Rome," Pele chuckled. "It is Trastion, a Ranger Recruit."

"Trastion, since you seem to be just going out either way, perhaps you would like to join us as well, so that I am not the only one Romeran here manages to rope into exploring Rammas Echor?" she asked. She thought it would do good for the two lads to get to make friends with each other so that they wouldn't feel alone among experienced Rangers.

[Rillewen]

@Romeran @Pele Alarion

Trastion Leithor
New recruit

Joining An Unexpected Delay


It seemed he would not get past either unseen, not that he expected to, which was why he'd waved. Trastion stopped and returned the smile at Romeran. He looked friendly, at least. Trastion changed his direction to approach them instead of 'sneaking past', as the stranger introduced himself, and Captain Alarion introduced him. "Hello!" He replied back cheerfully. "Good morning, Captain Alarion. Nice to meet you, Romeran. As the captain said, I'm Trastion." He held up a hand to offer a handshake. "Trainee, does that mean you're sort of new, too?" He asked, feeling hopeful he might not be the only one that was new around here, and learning about all of this.

"A patrol around the Rammas?" He wondered how far that was, being unfamiliar with the area. He considered the invitation to join them. "If neither of you objects, sure, I'd enjoy coming along." He agreed, taking a glance at the horse. "I think Lightning would enjoy it, too." He added. "I was just going to do a little riding..sort of to make sure I hadn't forgotten how, and explore a bit while I was at it." He admitted. "It's been a couple of years since I had a chance to do any riding." He figured he might as well get on the horse now, since his plans had been derailed. He got up into the saddle without any trouble, and found that his worries had been for nothing, and the horse seemed eager to take off. He held him steady with a smile, deciding he quite liked Lightning. "How far is it, going around Rammas Echor, anyway?" He wondered, glancing out across the Pelennor as if he could see its borders from here.

[Romeran]

An Unexpected Delay
Ranger Trainee Romeran
At the Gates of Minas Tirith
@Pele Alarion@Rillewen
(Open to All)

Red overtook Romeran's face faster than he could do anything about it and his cheeks were now bright red even despite his beard. Romeran coughed as he tried to speak spluttering out his words. He mimed smacking his hand on his forehead as he finally spoke "Yes of course the east gate is what I meant" having stumbled over his words now he hoped that he hadn't lost the captain's confidence in his ability to know east from west. "I would be glad to have you along in any case, perhaps you can save me from my own directions" he added in an attempt to make light of his earlier mistake.

Romeran took the recruits hand and shook it firmly, looking him up and down. He smiled, Romeran was glad to have more recruits, it made him feel less like the only new person among a sea of veterans. "Yes I'm new as well, only started training," Romeran paused to count the time before realizing it would take an awkward amount of time "well not that long ago" he concluded.

"You are certainly welcome to come as well, the more the merrier, besides I hardy know my way around" he said with an encouraging smile. "Have you spent much time around the city?" he asked Trastion as he mentioned that he wanted to explore a bit, perhaps he would be another person less familiar with the city as well.

"I think the entire Rammas is quite long in circumference but I did not attempt to measure it. I believe it is about three of four leagues along the road north east" he said, emphasizing the direction and looking at Pele as he did so "from here towards the gate and then about four leagues around the wall and less than one from the south gate to the city as the city is placed near the southern gate." Romeran had attempted to chart the distance on the map earlier the previous day, based on roughly how fast he knew Daisy could trot

"I figure it would be perhaps four hours, give or take, or a half-a-day at worst" he said in estimation "I expect it would take more than twice that time to completely navigate the Rammas, perhaps the Captain would know?" he finished looking over to Pele.

[Rillewen]

@Romeran @Pele Alarion

Trastion Leithor
New recruit

An Unexpected Delay


Pausing at the question of whether he'd spent much time inside the city, Trastion gave a slight grin. "You might say that, I guess," He answered with a little laugh. "I wandered around lost for a long time before being finally escorted up to the sixth level, to the ranger headquarters, so I could enlist. And this morning, Lightning and I spent a great deal of time being lost trying to find our way down to the main gate," He admitted, a little self-conscious about it, but truthful just the same. "It's much larger than any city I think I've ever been in... and there are seven levels to it! Incredible, isn't it?" Maybe he felt a bit more relaxed, hearing that Romeran hardly knew his way around either, and he'd apparently been here a little while already.

Nodding thoughtfully at the estimate that it might take about four hours, Trastion glanced out across the Pelennor, curious to explore for a few hours. He wondered if the other two might be meeting anyone else here at the gates, before setting off. Lightning pawed the ground as if eager to get moving, and Trastion felt about the same. He'd heard plenty about this place but, aside from passing through on his way to the city, he'd never been there, and had never seen it. "You speak as if you aren't familiar with the city or surrounding areas, either, Romeran. Where are you from?" He asked curiously.

[Pele Alarion]

@Rillewen , @Romeran
Captain Pele Alarion
An Unexpected Delay

Pele found herself very amused by Romeran's reaction to his own mistake, and she was sorely tempted to tease him some more. She took pity, though, and, even though her blue eyes glinted with unbridled merriment, only a light smile touched her lips. She listened for a while to both young men speaking, and evaluated Rome's plans in silence.

"Your calculations are done quite well," she chose to encourage the Trainee and build up his confidence rather than laugh at him. "I hope you have some snacks with you - even a few hours of riding along walls might be a hungry work. And water?" She did not have much on her, but she knew where to supplement water at least, and was used to surviving for long hours, and even days, on little food, or none at all. However, these two were young, could even be considered still growing in a way, and might be in more need of sustenance.

"But perhaps there really are secret entrances and long, winding hallways in the mountain," Pele then said in a quiet voice and looked around as if she were speaking great secrets. "Who knows what is hidden there..."

She let her restless horse take a few steps forward. "Is anyone else joining, or should we get going? While I can spare half of the day, I cannot spend the whole day away. There are duties to tend to..." she said to get the other two to leave the gate and start moving.

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen

Kaylin
Osgiliath, west bank

"Yes," Kaylin almost grunted when Eryn said they could chat. That would help, but it didn't mean she was happy about the whole affair. Some part of her mind wondered if she'd get scolded for going out to Ithilien. She wouldn't have been, if nothing had happened - of that she was certain. But now...

At Eryn's response to Hirgond's question, Kaylin frowned thoughtfully. It would be better for her, as well, if their little escapade were kept on the wraps. Surely, she would be scolded for taking a civilian to Ithilien. Whether the war was over or not, the woods clearly were not safe enough yet. Well, Kaylin believed them now. She hadn't really thought much of it, before.

But the likelihood of their little adventure staying a secret was terribly small, and the redhead didn't have much hope that it would.

Hirgond frowned quizically, and Baerden looked surprised. "A secret?" The former soldier looked at Kaylin. "I thought it was just training?"

Kaylin cleared her throat. "Yes, just training. But as you can see, it didn't turn out to be just training. While it was supposed to be." She shrugged. "Eryn's father is also a Ranger and he would not be pleased with Eryn training in Ithilien at this stage." There was no need to mention Eryn wasn't actually a Ranger yet. "I could have taken her anywhere instead of the forest, that is true, and I cannot deny the man apparently had a point. Although I wanted her to see Ithilien and learn about it already. Pro's and cons, but too late to debate them now. The both of us would prefer it if the story didn't get back to him through anyone else. Hence, Erynneth's request."

Baerden smiled sympathetically, and Hirgond seemed satisfied with the answer. Baerden nodded. "I can agree to that much, Eryn," he smiled at the girl. "I'll tell the others not to blab about it to anyone else coming through. You tell your father in your own time, lass."

Since they now had that covered and Kaylin was treated, the men had to leave to return to their daily tasks. Once they were alone, Kaylin sighed. "Sorry, Eryn, but I had to give them enough of the truth for there to be a chance of them agreeing to your request. I think this is the best shot we have." She stayed silent for a moment, before finally allowing herself to swear. Just once. She sighed again. "This turned out to be a proper mess." Her blue-grey eyes found Eryn's. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean for any of this to happen."

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Erynneth
Osgiliath, West Bank


Eryn bit her lip lightly as the men questioned the whole 'secret' thing. She had a feeling this was not going to go well, and fidgeted uncomfortably as she tried to think of how to explain, but thankfully Kaylin came to the rescue. She nodded in support of Kaylin's explanation, and breathed a silent sigh of relief that they accepted it and assured her they would not be blabbing. "Thank you," She smiled back at Baerden. If she had her way, he'd never, ever, EVER hear about this, but she didn't have to tell Baerden that.

As they left, she pulled up a chair close to where Kaylin had to rest. "It's alright, it worked, and they agreed not to tell." She paused, her hazel eyes meeting Kaylin's at her next words, and felt bad that her friend was having to apologize for it. "Kaylin, it isn't your fault the orcs were there. And think of it this way," She added, "If we hadn't been there to stop them, maybe they would've done some harm elsewhere. They might've sneaked past the men here, or maybe that archer would've picked off some of the men here, or something, and.. I don't know."

She looked down at her lap, thinking for a moment, remembering something from years ago. "I had a friend once, who used to say that when things seem to go wrong, maybe it would've turned out worse if it had gone 'right', and, he said, that you shouldn't be afraid to take chances and maybe make mistakes, because mistakes can sometimes turn out to be the best thing that could've happened to you." She smiled faintly, then paused, and added, "I wish you hadn't gotten hurt, of course. But at least they say you'll be alright?"

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen

Kaylin
Osgiliath, west bank

She grinned at Eryn's response. If her new friend hadn't figured it out yet, she would soon come to realize that Kaylin's mood could apparently change like the wind. "That works out great, then," she mumbled. "I love making mistakes."

Moving slightly, Kaylin closed her eyes. "Yes, I should be fine. I've had worse, I think. It's just the recovery time that is going to be very annoying." With the cleaning of the wound and the stitching behind her, most would say the worst part was over, but... "Honestly, I would prefer to get my wounds cleaned and stitched once a day, five days in a row, to having to take weeks to heal." She peered at Eryn with one eye. "Yes, I'm the impatient type." Kaylin had to laugh, but she cut it short when it pulled at her stitches. "Ah, man. I wonder how much crap I'll get about this from Thûllir." She opened her eyes and frowned. "And possibly Pele." Kaylin wanted to shrug, but didn't. She didn't want to pull at her stitches again.

They spent the rest of the day chatting, and in the evening Baerden came to pull Eryn away to help with the food prep. Kaylin was ordered to take a nap, and although she protested against it, she didn't do so as vehemently as she might have, and she did sleep for a while as Eryn helped a few of the men with the dinner preparations.

They all ate together again, as they had done at breakfast that same morning. Hirgond changed Kaylin's bandages and enlisted Eryn as his helper as he did so. He seemed pleased with the look of the wound, cleaned the area around it again and gave Kaylin a fresh bandage.

That night, they slept in the same room as the night before. After breakfast, Hirgond and Eryn set at changing Kaylin's bandages once more. This time, Hirgond checked the wound more thoroughly. "I want you to go to the Houses of Healing straight away," he told Kaylin, but his eyes were on Eryn as he said it - as if to say she would have to make sure Kaylin listened to his instructions. "They will have more means to make sure the wound does not get infected. I only have so much here. And..." He moved around to face the redheaded Ranger. "You need to let Baerden take you there in the wagon. All the way up to the sixth circle. Your skin needs to heal. No walking up circles."

Kaylin just grunted at him at first. "Yeeeeees," she said, rolling her eyes. "I will let Baerden cart me around like a cripple. Happy?"
Hirgond nodded, and by that point Baerden stuck his head around the door. "Ready, girls?" He blinked when he saw Kaylin's glare. "Ladies?" The glare didn't dissapate. He shrugged and entered the room. "Can she walk to the wagon, Hirgond, or should I carry her?"
Kaylin thought he looked much too amused.
Hirgond shrugged. "She can walk, but no arm over your shoulder. You need to support her by taking her arm. The wagon is out front?"
Baerden nodded, slung Kaylin's pack over his shoulder and put his left arm under Kaylin's right arm. He took her right hand as well. "Let's go, K."
"You're enjoying this too much," she said.
He grinned. "I wouldn't dare. Eryn, can you grab the rest of your stuff? It's not far."

Once outside, they put their stuff in the wagon. Kaylin frowned when she saw that part of it had been prepped for her to lie down. "You're kidding me, right?" she asked sourly.
"No." Hirgond's voice came suddenly from behind them. Kaylin startled slightly. "Fine," she mumbled. Once she was lying down, she crossed her arms and looked up with no small amount of defiance. "This is ridiculous."

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Erynneth
Osgiliath, West Bank


A light giggle came, upon hearing Kaylin's declaration that she 'loved making mistakes'. Eryn wasn't sure why, but she was beginning to notice a trend in the type of people she seemed to become friends with, and they were all of that same sort of mindset. Strange, she thought absently. The evening seemed to fly by, and soon she was helping with supper, and then helping the healer with Kaylin's bandages. She was glad to be given things to do, although she hadn't actually expected that Hirgond would allow her to help with that. Seeing the wound, stitched up and all, it didn't seem to look quite as bad as she had feared back when it first happened. The next day it still looked alright, and she felt a little better about it healing up fine.

"Yes sir," She nodded, paying attention to the instructions. "I'll make sure we go straight there." Not that she would be the one driving the wagon, but still, she was in total agreement about their needing to go to the houses of healing. Watching how Kaylin glared at poor Baerden, Eryn bit back a snicker, feeling a bit sorry for him, yet she couldn't help being amused by Kaylin's attitude about it. "Yes, we're ready," She grinned. Eryn had already ensured that her bow and arrows, and Kaylin's shield and sword and things had been brought in from the boat, last night, and stowed with the rest of their gear. Now, since Baerden had Kaylin's pack, Eryn grabbed up the rest of it and brought it out to the wagon.

Climbing into the wagon beside her friend, she put their stuff down beside her and got comfortable. "Think of it this way, Kaylin. You can take all the naps you want, and no one will gripe at you for being lazy." She tried to put a positive spin on the situation as best she could. "And... it's better than being brought back in a coffin," She added softly, thoughtful. Hugging her knees up to her chest, Eryn thought about how close they had both come to being killed as the wagon started moving, taking them back homeward. "Is your husband going to be angry if he finds out about all this?" She wondered, unsure whether Kaylin intended to tell him everything or only what was necessary.

[Aikári Salmarinian]

Swan Knight Silinde Nagashan
Pelennor Fields near Osgiliath, westbank of Anduin

Silinde was dressed in the armour going with the Swan Knights of Dol Amroth, and this had always distinguished him from the Gondorian Rangers. Now well into the Fourth Age, the days of blissful peace had returned as it had been meant. But he had lost friends in the battles on the Pelennor Fields. So after couple of years he was returning, just to remember them. This time he rode alone, not in company. However the blood of Numenor flowed unchallenged through Imrahil’s people and for Silinde it was no exception. Just all of those Dol Amroth he spoke Sindarin as a first language, and a few human ones as second and third. But never he had been a language wonder, so he spoke the human languages rather poorly. Not for anything he had once six years of tough training, before he had been initiated at twenty years as full knight. He was quite good friends with the third son of Imrahil, Amrothos, who was just three years his senior. Amrothos would never inherit the throne of his father, and thus embraced another path in life. It was the same for any sisters. They could marry lucky and become princess of a leading house elsewhere.

But Silinde came from a rather poor background, and perhaps there was something elvish distantly in him via his mother, it played no longer any role than being pretty handsome, tall and noble looking. Reputation was not inherited, that came by your own efforts. Silinde’s destiny lay with the Swan Knights, and he was proud to be one of them. But the pride was not overbearing he felt above anything who was not a knight. Dor-en-Ernil was the name of the surrounding lands belonging to the city of Dol Amroth. He was a few days from home and missed the sound of the sea. Dol Amroth lay in the bay of the Anduin, where the river after a long journey from the north emptied into Belegaer.

From far he could see that on the westbank, which he followed northbound, had formed a small company of people close to a ruined city. Osgiliath, it was. Destroyed over more than fivehundred years ago it still sat on the island in the river, but no mortal living soul remembered it. The elves could perhaps if they had visited it once? He gave his horse a nudge and rode on in a soft trot over the road that snaked over the land. It was not straight. Minas Ithil lay on the eastbank, Minas Tirith on the west, pasted against the mountains. Ered Nimrais as he knew them. This small group of people were still gathering and strangely there were some wounded as well. Not so much reached him in Dol Amroth from the north, they were more occupied with sailing raiders from Umbar. Was there still fighting in Mordor? It couldn’t be. Perhaps Silinde was wrong. It had the destination of going back to Minas Tirith. He was pretty curious so he rode in the direction of the group and reached them finally.

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen
@Aikári Salmarinian

Kaylin
Leaving Osgiliath, west bank

Kaylin rolled her eyes at Eryn's attempt at painting the silver lining of her situation. "I only ever loved naps for a few months during a specific time in my life, and that has been years ago," she grumbled. Eryn's next comment made her fall silent for a moment. Yes, coming back breathing in a wagon was infinitely better than returning in a coffin. That... was undisputably true.

Her friend's question made Kaylin frown for a second, then she smiled and shook her head. "No, I do not think he will be angry at all." She couldn't wipe the smile off of her face when she realized it wouldn't be that long now before he returned to the city. "Though he can surprise me from time to time, my guess is that he will mostly be very concerned with my well-being. He will want to take a good look at my wounds himself, probably, and I imagine he will hound me about taking good care of it. As for taking you..." Kaylin sighed lightly. "I think he will not make too much of a problem. I think he will agree with me that you are old enough to make your own decisions. And that we ran into very bad luck, which was not to be expected." She smiled at Eryn. "And I am pretty sure he will want to thank you for that well-placed arrow."

They set out from the ruined city then, heading out on the road leading to the Pelennor and then on to Minas Tirith.

The sound of horse hooves heavy on the road soon distracted her from her thoughts about her husband. "What is that? Who is riding toward us?" Kaylin asked Erynneth, immediately curious and also slightly wary. She was unhappy she wasn't supposed to get up, but she would abandon Hirgond's instructions if Erynneth told her anything that would be cause for alarm.

Baerden was the one to call back. "No worries. Looks like a Swan Knight." The ex-soldier nodded at Silinde as the young knight drew up next to the wagon, although he looked a bit puzzled that the man would stop. "Well met, friend. Can... we help you?"

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Erynneth
Leaving Osgiliath, West Bank


It seemed Eryn's attempts at being optimistic fell a bit flat with Kaylin, but she didn't mind. Shrugging slightly, she listened to her friend talk about her husband, and smiled faintly. She decided he sounded pretty nice, and would like to meet him sometime. Especially if, as Kaylin said, he wasn't going to be blaming Eryn and be upset at her for all of this. "I was so scared, I didn't know if the arrow would even bother him," She confessed quietly, remembering the frightful moments back in the forest, with the orc looming over Kaylin, about to finish her off. "They're really only training arrows, but I suppose they worked well enough, huh?" She managed a smile at that, pleased with how effective they'd turned out to be.

Hearing the rider approaching just about as Kaylin was asking who was coming, Eryn glanced up and peered over the side of the wagon, curious as she heard Baerden declare that it looked like just a Swan Knight. Eryn was greatly surprised by that, as it she knew it was about a week and a half trip by horse, from Dol Amroth to the Pelennor. Her aunt and cousins lived there, so she was fairly familiar with that distance. And why would a knight be here? She wasn't entirely sure what they did and where they went, but she'd never heard her father say anything about Swan Knights frequenting Osgiliath, and she'd never really seen any around the Pelennor area. Was this really a knight, or could it be some new threat?

Seeing that he had pulled up alongside their wagon, Eryn couldn't help feeling slightly wary, and frowned as she quietly moved a hand toward the knife she'd brought along, so far unused. Not that she actually knew how to use it if she had to, but she knew Kaylin wasn't in any condition to fight if this turned out to be some sort of robber, and she intended to protect her wounded friend if necessary. "We're supposed to go straight to the houses of healing, no stopping," She quietly reminded Baerden, unsure whether it was a good idea to stop, if that's what the stranger had in mind. She wasn't sure whether she liked the idea of him even riding alongside them if he was a stranger to them all. Even if he really was a knight.

[Aikári Salmarinian]

Swan Knight Silinde Nagashan
Pelennor Fields near Osgiliath, westbank of Anduin

Closer by Silinde spotted that a woman lay on brancard of sorts, and was transported horizontal. Yet she looked away and spoke, but the words he couldn’t understand. Was it Westron they spoke? He sighed, why did not everyone speak Sindarin? It would all been easier. Dor-en-Ernil and Lamedon lay over an offshoot in the southern direction of the Ered Nimrais. Lebennin, Ithillien and Arnorien lay on the eastside to the north. It was a like a dam in the water, where one side had its own circle of life, and different on the other side. Not that faraway lay Edhellond, the harbour where many Silver left Middle-Earth for ages. Silinde was used to the elvenships leaving for unknown shores. It was not that strange that most humans in that area spoke Sindarin as a first tongue and they carried Sindarin names. More than 3000 years ago when his ancestors from Numenor landed on these shores, they had spoken Numenorean. But three millennia later this had changed complete. Numenor was a legend, and the rich numbers of elves in these areas, it was more lucrative to take over their tongues, customs and ideas than remain with the old, that was partly corrupted anyhow. The leaving elves lingered by the sea for a while, before finally deciding for the journey west.

Silinde pulled softly at the reigns to bring the trot back to slow walk of his horse and then halted on a short distance. They were a bit battered. From fighting? Were the troubles not over yet? He could not really rhyme with the peace that had returned. He didn’t know the company, but nodded to the man who spoke. “Mellon nin,” said Silinde automatically, a nod in return. “Help me? No.” How to interpret that question. However he noticed also that another woman in the group did have the hand ready on the sword. What for? With the colour of her hair couldn’t she be from Umbar. “On my way to the city there,” he pointed. “Minas Tirith.” He was also here for a memorial, but he left that out. “Something happened?” he asked as reference to the girl on the brancard. They were probably on their way to the city, for a hospital. He made a motion they could continue on and didn’t have to stop any longer than necessary. He gave his horse a nudge to walk in pace with the group.

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen
@Aikári Salmarinian

Kaylin
On the road from Osgiliath to Minas Tirith

"A Swan Knight?" Kaylin repeated Baerden's words. For a moment, she thought of Isys, the strange woman being the only one she knew. Of course, it would not be Ilisys, of all people. But would this knight be as eccentric? And why would they approach their wagon? Curiosity would be reason enough, she supposed.

Eryn's reaction seemed very cautious. Not that Kaylin could blame her after what happened to them yesterday.

Baerden was giving the knight an easy smile, and urged the horse back into motion. "Looks like we will be sharing the road for a bit, then? We are heading there ourselves." At the man's question, the former Sergeant nodded. "Aye. Skirmish in the Ithilien woods. Our friend there should be fine, though we are taking her to the Houses of Healing to make sure."

Kaylin called out to the two men. "I can speak for myself, you know!" She rolled her eyes at Eryn, and put a settling hand on her friend's arm, as if to say she appreciated the concern, but it probably wasn't called for. "What is your name, stranger?" Kaylin asked. "If you would learn what happened to me, you might as well share that much yourself."

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Erynneth
On the road toward Minas Tirith


Eryn let her gaze meet with Kaylin's when the latter put a hand on her arm, and nodded slightly. But as she moved her hand away from her dagger, she felt something...off about the handle. Sort of rough, though it shouldn't be. Glancing down, she froze as she took a look at the weapon for the first time since borrowing it from among her father's belongings. "Oh no!" She gasped softly, likely only loud enough that Kaylin might hear. Since no one else seemed very bothered by the stranger, she let that slip away to the back of her mind. She had bigger problems now. Pulling out the dagger carefully, she examined the damage to the handle as she held it in her lap, cringing slightly as she imagined what her father would say when he saw that.

Staring down at the knife, Eryn bit her lip, unsure what to do. The handle had obvious scuff marks on one side, as if a sword had scraped across it forcefully. There used to be a pretty stone set into to the side of the handle as well; that was gone, and she had no idea how this could have happened. There was no way her father would NOT notice this, so she couldn't exactly slip it back in and expect him to not know it was ever gone.

Mostly ignoring their company now, Eryn held the dagger down where Kaylin could see it. "Kaylin, what can I do?" She asked her friend, nervous. "My father will be furious when he sees this.." She whispered, trying to keep Baerden from hearing. "My uncle made it for him, for like a wedding gift or something... and he's dead now, so it's like, special to him... I never should've taken it, but I thought it'd be fine..." The ugly scratches streaking across the handle seemed to stand out as she gazed at it, as if mocking her for having the stupid idea of taking it along in the first place.

[Aikári Salmarinian]

Swan Knight Silinde Nagashan
Road from Osgiliath to the capital

The last part to his destination was within an hour reach. Silinde was looking forward to get out the saddle, for he had been in it for hours with a few breaks. Anything else on weapons was put on the horse, such a small hunting bow and an axe which he had used in the mountains south. Now they were safely put away, as they had no purpose to be used. Silinde wouldn’t be hunting now his food together. There was as much you could take when you left homestead, but not for an entire week. In Lebennin were enough inns found for a meal and a bed, but there were stretches of land no building was found. The man accompanying them spoke and told briefly what happened in Ithilien. Skirmish? He nodded, it couldn’t be a lie. With the girl on the makeshift brancard, who had otherwise a good pair of brains and as well a voice. She protected. Silinde smiled slight, he had to think of his older sister Nilida. She had left Dol Amroth also. “Healing house of Minas Tirith is pretty excellent. I was in it years back,” he kept to speaking short sentences, so it was not so obvious he wasn’t that good with languages. It used to be better, but these last years he did spent mostly in Don-en-Ernil. The closing of the last age had brought an influx of elves who wanted to make the great journey west.

They would travel the last part together, but for Silinde it was something normal to team up. There were no hostilities between Dol Amroth and Minas Tirith, as far Silinde knew, or had ever been. He looked at the strong voiced maiden. “Me name? Silinde Merenion,” using his mother’s name than the family prefix of his father. Nagashan sounded so…. Umbarian, which it was in fact. He had two older brothers who pillaged and plundered along the coast. He didn’t look much like them, except for the dark Numenorean hair, and lightbrown eyes which were definite neither Umbarian or Numenorean. His aunt had always questioned if Silinde had been really his father’s biological son. Or that his mother had a love affair with him as end result? Merenia had been a daughter of Dol Amroth, but in the choice of her husband she hadn’t been so very lucky. She had named him Silinde, before she passed away in birth. The other girl was twitching about a damaged dagger as it appeared. He couldn’t hear what she whispered to the girl on the brancard, but the desperation in the voice as well the dagger in her hand told Silinde enough. “No despair, bring it to a forge, and repair is good as new. My broken sword was healed that way,” he said unconcerned. Odd choice of words. “I mean,” he switched to Sindarin. “The blacksmith remodel it to how it was, put in the hilt an exact replacement when it comes to jewels, and put it back together. Any damages disappeared as snow in the sunlight.”

Broken weapons had never worried him, but there were people who could be anxious. He had known a few before the war and the battle on these fields. Silinde looked to the left, southwards. Somewhere he had fought there, as rearguard for Faramir’s forces. It had been a good position from the south on, but also a costly one. Until Aragorn came with his immortal army of the dead. How the king had accomplished that, Silinde could only guess. In Dol Amroth they had always known about the city of the dead. He looked back at the man in the group. “You wouldn’t expect a skirmish now, but apparent,” he spoke at last. Was it worrisome? Perhaps. But all troubles in the south weren’t gone either, though the threat of adventurous pirates was much lesser than in the heydays of the Eye in Mordor.

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen
@Aikári Salmarinian

Kaylin
On the road from Osgiliath to Minas Tirith

"Well, Silinde," she called back, "I'm Kaylin." She wouldn't have people refer to her as 'that one', 'the wounded one', or any other variants. At that point, Eryn gasped, which drew Kaylin's attention away from the new arrival.

"What's wrong?" she asked Eryn, concerned by the way her friend's face was blanching over. Eryn drew the dagger she'd brought and cringed visibly as she looked it over and then held it out for her to see. Kaylin noted the scuff marks and an indentation that looked like it used to hold a gem. Kaylin frowned and grimaced when she heard why it meant so much to Duinion. That... was unfortunate. A gift from his brother, who had died... for the occasion of marrying a woman, who had also died...

Yeah. This was bad.

Silinde hadn't heard that part, of course, and suggested Eryn take it to a smith. It might come across as insensitive, and Kaylin put a hand on Eryn's wrist. "He did not hear it has emotional value, so do not fault him for the tone of his words. Besides... he is probably right that a smith could fix most of the damage, although... I don't know what kind of stone was set in the handle, exactly? Finding an exact replica would be..." She didn't want to say near impossible. "Challenging."

"I knew the former Ranger smith could work wonders, but he's retired now and I have yet to meet his replacement," she mused. She knew it was a woman, but that was about the extent of her knowledge. "But maybe she could still help? Any idea what gem it was?" Kaylin wondered how the dagger hilt got so damaged. Her memory on the fight was getting fuzzy, for some reason. How many orcs had there been again? Three, four? Five, maybe? "Did you take that out in Ithilien?" she asked, annoyed that she couldn't quite recall.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Erynneth
On the road toward Minas Tirith


After staring down at the damage for a moment, Eryn decided that she was fortunate that at least the dagger had not fallen out of the sheath at any point, for then she would have no idea where to even look for it. And she knew, also, that if she had to admit to her father about this whole thing, he would be far more glad to know she had survived, than upset over the knife. But she still had to cling to some hope that perhaps she might be able to get it fixed and not have to tell him about any of it.

Silinde's casual attitude about getting the dagger fixed made her frown slightly, although she did wonder how he'd been able to get a good enough look to have seen it when she was holding it down near Kaylin, and him being way up there on his horse and everything. She didn't like the idea of him spying and commenting on what was obviously a private conversation between herself and Kaylin. Furthermore, it seemed strange to her that a Gondorian could barely speak the language most common in Gondor, although perhaps he was only rusty, since his knowledge of it seemed to improve the more he spoke with it. Until he switched to another language, which she recognized as Sindarin but couldn't catch but a few words, as her knowledge of it was at a beginner level; her father had begun teaching it to her recently, and he was gone so often she rarely got to work at it.

Turning back to Kaylin, she nodded slightly in acknowledgement of her statement, deciding to ignore the odd stranger. She further decided it wasn't going to help anything to keep looking at the dagger, and slipped it carefully back into the sheath. "I don't know a whole lot about stones, but it matches the one on the other side." She replied quietly, turning the dagger a bit so they could take a quick look at it. "I'm sure I'd recognize it if I saw another like it, but..." She sighed. "If you think the ranger smith might be able to help... maybe they won't keep you too long in the houses of healing, and you could take me there? I don't know if they'd let me into the ranger's areas by myself." She had a slightly better glimmer of hope, now, and there were still plenty of days left before her father was expected to return. But of course, Kaylin getting treated would certainly have to come first.

Then, Kaylin's last question caused her to pause, thinking carefully. "No, I'm fairly certain I didn't. I only remember making sure I had it when we left that morning, and.. I sort of forgot all about it until just now... I should have checked on it before, I guess." She sighed, more anxious than before now, to get to the city as soon as possible. "How are you doing, Kaylin? Does it hurt still? Are you comfortable enough?"

[Aikári Salmarinian]

Swan Knight Silinde Nagashan
Road from Osgiliath to the capital

Mortality was to him a blessing. Silinde had always been glad to not be of the long-living kind. It seemed to a burden the changes of the world would be unrecognisable in the end. He understood why the elves wanted leave, to shores where changes barely happened. Did they desire the mortal fortitudes that was denied to them in the sense? Death and disappearance were a blessing too when it came to family members and other peoples who you didn’t like. He nodded to Kaylin after the introduction. “Mend well,” he said in broken Gondorian. The girls were chatting further over the broken weapon and he left them to that, to sort it out in the end. His advice was a normal action in Dol Amroth and he didn’t question what he had said. As long despair vanished and a light returned, it was okay. Despair was the tool of the Umbarian mind for the victims. The other two didn’t share their names for now and Silinde was not the sort of person to demand them. The mountains of Dor-en-Ernil were a barrier, that separated east from west Gondor. Locally they could be called Emyn Ernil. Over the sea it was simple the best and safest route to reach the southwest of Gondor.

Silinde never thought of Gondor. Lebennin was also a hub with an own royal house and a securing guard, banners and emblems. The mountains could be traversed, but not in the fastest way. That road went over the sea. He rode with the group in his own thoughts and said nothing. All four children of Imrahil had gotten Sindarin names. There was a relation to old Adunaic, but associated with a set of rulers that banned Sindarin long ago, it had never gained favour to be a celebrated tongue in the areas where the elves lived. And Umbarian did have little with native Sindarin speakers, for they hated and shunned that tongue particular. There was a world of differences between Dyando and Angar, and their youngest brother Silinde. Nilida was not counted, but mattered as much. She went once her own road, after refusing to marry the man her father had found for her. The court of Imrahil has taken her on as chambermaid. And from chambermaid she had climbed up taking care over the young children at court, which was a great honour for a recognised daughter of Dol Amroth, from the poorer parts of the town.

His older sister was a good manager and organiser and her approach was methodical and systematic. Structure was important for young children and Nilida was good at that. Court asked her to be uplifting, inspring and a fun person to be around. Nilida had through her female position between three brother always been extrovert and even she was not very optimistic younger, she was at court. She appreciated the good food and clothing, and spoke today only Sindarin still. Lond Dobas was the bay of the southern elves. And as long they popped up here after a long journey from the north, they were glad to arrive in an area of respect and strength, where descendents of the Faithful lived. She was a home at the court, but it was also related to Silinde’s position among the Swan Knights. Nilida had never favoured swords and daggers or fighting itself other that verbally.

So open upon the flatlands of Pelennor Silinde was not at ease. There weren’t even bushes or tree growing, so the eyes of Ithilien couldn’t see across. Perhaps it hadn’t been a surprise for the enemy across to attack this small group, as they had seen them maybe from miles ahead. They would know Silinde’s coming as well, a Swan Knight. He was not afraid, but if being careful was an essence, it had be exercised. It brought a sense in him to turn around in the saddle and look behind him. Even the ruins of Osgiliath blocked a lot of the view on Ithilien, the southern parts were not. Human or elf, a spyglass came always in handy, so he reached in the left saddleback behind him and travelled with it along the southern shores. Here and there moved uniformed guards of Minas Tirith, close to Osgiliath’s crossing. He rode quietly on as he had done the whole journey. Tomorrow he would sort out what he had come for. Tonight was a time to relax and catch a good sleep in a bed than somewhere along the road. He could bathe and clean clothes as well.

[Arnyn]

@Rillewen

Kaylin
On the road from Osgiliath to Minas Tirith

She must be very tired still, or something. Kaylin couldn't quite grasp how Eryn's dagger had gotten so damaged if she hadn't even taken it out. She wasn't getting a fever or anything, right? She didn't feel like she had a fever. It would be bad if she was getting one. Could be a sign of exhaustion, she supposed, but it would more likely be a sign of infection. Mentally, she shook her head: that was nearly impossible. Her wound had just been checked, and fever due to infection was a later symptom, not an early one. Still somewhat paranoid, she was annoyed at not being able to take a look at her wound herself, since it was on her back.

"I guess the first step would be to find you a smith who can take a look at it and tell you what the options are. And if we get a decent prognosis from a smith, then we would need to visit a jeweler to see if you recognize the right stone." She eyed Eryn. "But do you have the money for all that? Jewels can be... pricy."

When Eryn asked if her wound still hurt, Kaylin gave an annoyed wave. "It gets angry whenever I move," she shrugged, letting Eryn draw her own conclusions. "I'm probably as comfortable as is possible," she added. They would make better time in the wagon than they had with their leisurely pace, but Kaylin knew she would be glad once they arrived. She already knew now that her patience would not last through all the six gates to the Houses of Healing. "Hey Baerden, you probably don't know the current passwords?"
He called back a negative.
Kaylin looked to Eryn. "Do you?"
She was pretty sure that wounded didn't need passwords to get to the Houses, but she wasn't clear on how properly the guards needed to check, and she wasn't about to get up or roll over to show them, or remove her bandage. As long as she'd be awake to provide the passwords, she supposed it wouldn't be a problem. And odds were that the guards on duty would recognize her anyways, even on the off chance she would not be alert.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Erynneth
On the road toward Minas Tirith


Listening to Kaylin talk about what they'd need to do, Eryn grew a bit more worried. She had no idea what sort of price she would be looking at for getting this repaired, but it might just take all of her savings, if what Kaylin said was right. She had been saving to buy a horse, but she might have to wait a bit longer on that. "I'm not sure," She answered quietly, in reply to whether she had enough money for a gem. She also wasn't sure what sort of gem it was. Taking a look at the other side of the handle, she noticed a pretty stone there, not a gem, but not just an ordinary stone, either. She wasn't sure what kind it was, but was pretty sure it matched the other side.

While she was looking, she noticed the outer edge of the sheath was a bit scraped, too. Not bad; the handle had taken the most of the damage, but she thought it sort of looked like a blade had scraped across it. Hopefully, they wouldn't be too upset about that at the ranger's armory. She didn't remember getting attacked, but then everything had happened so fast. She went quiet for a bit as she tried to go over in her memory what had happened yesterday, and narrowed it down to just one moment; when she'd been taking that shot at the first orc, and Kaylin yelled at her to run, and she had ducked and barely avoided getting hit by his slash. Or so she'd thought. She didn't remember feeling the sword hit against her side, but it must have grazed against the dagger's handle. Her adrenaline levels had been rather high at the time though, so that could explain that, she figured.

Her reflections on the battle were interrupted a moment later, as Kaylin asked if she knew the passwords. "Only up to the fifth level," She answered, as she made regular deliveries of dairy products to the citizens of level five and downward. She wondered if she would be allowed to go through with Kaylin, or if the guards would only allow the injured person to pass. "Will it be a problem?" She frowned, concerned by that idea. But of course, she supposed even if they didn't let her pass, she could always take the time to look around at a couple of smiths or jewelry shops, as Kaylin had suggested. But she'd rather stay with her friend, and keep her company, if nothing else.

[Aikári Salmarinian]

Swan Knight Silinde Nagashan
Pelennor Fields approaching Minas Tirith

There was so much he could bear, but not everything. He was not insensitive either, but neither girls he had ever met before, nor the man named Bearden. He was a stranger to them as they were to him. Even little bit of introduction had happened. Even they rode together for a small while, they would part ways in the city. Silinde wasn’t here for the healing house. The walls and the gates had changed. The fabled material shimmered as silver in the sunlight, but it wasn’t silver. It was mithril. Strong and enduring for sure, but not really the stone walls. They could hold on for a long time, but not intensive bombardment. Silinde could see where a part had fallen in and had been rebuilt. The cement work got a different colour. Yet they were being painted white, so it was one whole with the other walls. It was called the white city after all, Minas Tirith. Sindarin name that never had been translated in Adunaic.

He heard the conversation between the women anyhow and followed it, even it was kind of private. Maybe he could be of actual help with some coin to make the dagger whole. He wasn’t that rich, but poor neither anymore. But being a Swan Knight meant also to serve a higher cause than himself. And donate some money away was part of the profession. The woodland elves knew the human price values to things and matters, but they were not engaged with coin among themselves. The market of Dol Amroth knew a dual value system, it could be barter, one item against another, or pay with coin. He directed to near Bearden and gave the ranger two small packages, one contained athelas, and the other some gold coin, that should be sufficient for repairs. He said nothing further, but he expected the man to known for who they would be. It was the best route and avoided awkwardness. Then he gave his horse a nudge and rode in faster sense toward the gates, while someone called over the barriers loudly. “Swan searcher! Found the route back?” called a dark-haired guard he knew as Isandril. They had met once on the battlefield. Silinde raised his arm to answer acknowledgement. Old battle friends, that would be a night of ale and chivalrous stories. The gates were open at this hour and it was easy to arrive, just as travellers and merchants walked in and out. But also people on a daytrip into the country. It was after all lovely weather.

Since the war he hadn’t been here anymore. Not much had changed, except most damage at the city had been repaired, and brought more splendour to the town that it had in ages. The white tree was growing as well, but from below the mountain you couldn’t see it. He bridged the distance easy and stopped just behind the gate, where a spacious square allowed people to upmount and dismount. A swan knight in the city was an attraction. The citizens here wouldn’t see them every day, just as was in Dol Amroth and surrounding towns and villages. They saw instead rangers. Another equivalent of a fighter, but rangers almost had the same purpose as the knights. He told of the small group that was coming from Osgiliath and would need some assistance. The rangers and wall guards would decide themselves what happened. Silinde jumped on the ground and met with Isandril in a short, strong bearhug. “Good to see your ageless face once more. When will you have a grey hair?” spoke Isandril out his happiness. Silinde had sent a letter ahead with the expectation when and how late to arrive. “When your ugly nose falls off, you see,” grinned Silinde. “It has been long.” “I’ll find the others soon they are off duty. Only Hargrim is not in town, he is on errand to Pelargir,” said Isandril. “That’s shame,” nodded Silinde. But he knew well that duty went over pleasure. “What have you been up in the south?” asked his Gondorian friend. “Same troubles as before. Umbarians pirates who love to have our maidens, and country elves who complain about the call of the sea soon they arrive.” Not much had changed in the southwest. But they were hanging on.

[Arnyn]

Kaylin
On the road from Osgiliath to Minas Tirith

"No, probably not," she replied to Eryn's question. "Just thinking things through." It wasn't like she had much else to do. "Guess there is nothing much to be done other than wait and see," she added, nodding at the dagger Eryn was still holding onto rather tightly. She knew it wasn't easy to put such important matters from the mind as if often seemed to others, but... maybe she could distract her friend a little.

"Remind me, if we didn't cover it already," she changed the subject. "Did you and your father always live nearby Minas Tirith?" Somehow she was sure that they hadn't, which led her to believe she had forgotten part of what Eryn had already told her. Kaylin frowned. "I didn't think so... but I could be wrong. And if you've already told me, I'm very sorry that it seems to escape me at the moment.. maybe it's the stress or something?" she suggested, not wanting to make Eryn think she didn't care enough to remember, even though she was extremely loathe to admit that she, too, could be stressed. Kaylin preferred to show herself as strong, but she also didn't want to disappoint her friend.

The road took them past the Rammas Echor, where they were checked but not stopped for long, and into the farmlands and fields of the Pelennor.

They continued their conversation as Baerden drove the wagon along the road to the White City. Baerden wanted to talk to the Swan Knight, but spoke no Sindarin himself. He had never studied languages, and other than a few words here and there, he was rarely confronted with the language. Therefore, he simply spoke in Westron. He would wait and see whether Silinde understood enough to respond.
"This horse has been mine for years," he chatted, gesturing at the brown horse pulling the wagon. "Very dependable and strong. We get along well." They exchanged a few more sentences on the way, but it was still a surprise to Baerden that, as the Great Gate came closer, Silinde gave him two small packages before riding off faster toward the gate. Baerden blinked after the knight for a bit, then turned part of his attention to the packages. It was easy to feel and hear that one of them contained coin. He lifted an eyebrow as he investigated further, with one eye on the road and his horse.

Kaylin was finding the rhythmic motions of the wagon more and more sleep inducing, especially when the conversation with Eryn stalled. "Sorry," she mumbled at Eryn after realizing she'd closed her eyes for a bit. "I'm still awake. But if I do fall asleep, it shouldn't be a problem, I guess." After all, her wound had already been checked and she had slept the previous night as well. She hid a yawn behind her hand. Her body was directing more energy toward healing her up, she supposed. It had been a long time since she'd been injured in a way that warranted mentioning. When she heard hooves gallopping away, she asked: "Did the knight take his leave already? He was heading for the city as well, right? Did the wagon take too long to his liking or are we almost there?"

Baerden called back. "Almost there. Looks like our knight has a weakness for young ladies and their troubles, too. He left a package with what I think are healing herbs for you, K, and a package with coin for um.." He had also picked up part of the conversation, unwillingly. "Well I assume that would be for you, Eryn." His voice sounded surprised. "It's gold, too."

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Erynneth
On the road toward Minas Tirith


Glancing up from the dagger, Eryn paused before sliding it back into the sheath. "I don't remember if I told you, either," She admitted. "But yes, we've always lived near here. He grew up in the city, but... he didn't really like it there. So when he and my mother got married, they built a little homestead near a nice little patch of woods out here in the Pelennor, so it was a bit like a forest, only not very large. I used to love playing there." She smiled at the memory of those wonderful times in her childhood. They were passing through the Pelennor by now, and she took a look around, wondering if she might spot the place, though it had been years since she lived there. "I think we've already passed it," She added with a touch of disappointment. "Perhaps after you've gotten healed up, I can show you where it was." She suggested. After a brief pause, she quietly added, "My mother is buried there." Another recollection came to mind then, which she normally did not think about. "And.. so is my baby brother..." That part was spoken softer, thoughtfully, as Eryn frowned. Often forgetting about that particular detail, Eryn found herself feeling slightly odd to recall the fact that a baby had been born to her dying mother, although he did not live.

Going quiet for a few minutes, at first deep in thought about her mother and the baby brother she never got to know, Eryn was about to speak again, to change the subject after noticing she'd been quiet for a minute, but she noticed that Kaylin looked like she might be about to doze off. Wounded people probably did need rest, she figured, and so she kept quiet for a while, to allow her friend to rest if she needed it. But then Kaylin spoke up to apologize for it. "It's alright," Eryn answered quietly. "You probably need it."

Watching the knight suddenly ride away, Eryn wondered about that. "Yes, he's gone on ahead." She confirmed, nodding although Kaylin couldn't turn to look at her. Expanding onto what Baerden said, she added, "Yes, I can see the city ahead, but it will take us a few more minutes. I guess he must've gotten impatient, but I can't really blame him." She shrugged. The wagon was taking about as long as if they had walked, which obviously they couldn't do with Kaylin in the condition she was in. But considering it had taken her and Kaylin hours to walk from the farm to Osgiliath, and they were going all the way to the city on this return trip, she wasn't surprised by how long the trip had taken.

A moment later, Baerden's statement caught her by surprise. "What?" She blinked, looking toward the front of the wagon. "He did what?" She had to hear it again before she was satisfied that she'd heard him correctly. Eyes widening, she stared for a few seconds in disbelief. "Gold? No... why would he.. you must be mistaken, it can't be meant for me." She shook her head, confused. No one just gave out large amounts of gold. And she'd feel uncomfortable accepting such a gift, especially without knowing the reasons and everything behind it. "Maybe he meant to donate it to your cause?" She suggested. "I mean, rebuilding Osgiliath and keeping it defended, and all that, it must take a lot of money..."

She couldn't think of any particular reason why the stranger would give her a bunch of gold, but Baerden had spoken with him a little more, though she hadn't paid attention to what the two men might have spoken about. It made no sense, and, she recalled, she had been too distracted to remember to introduce herself to the stranger. Although perhaps it had been partly out of reluctance to announce her name to everyone, so it was less likely to get back to her father. Still, she had barely spoken to him, finding it difficult to understand what he said. "Is there any sort of note on it?" She wondered after a moment, thinking that if there was a note, it might explain everything.

[Aikári Salmarinian]

Swan Knight Silinde Nagashan
Arrived in Minas Tirith, just behind the city gates.

Sindarin proved to be more of a problem between these walls than thought or expected. Dol Amroth was a strange duck in the pond then, with him here as stranger in the centre of a Westron speaking town. In the war he had been with other swan knights here too, and his lord Imrahil. He had been sixtyfour of age in the war, an elder man like Denethor and Theoden had been, but those had passed away. Imrahil was now in his seventies and no longer fit for the battlefield. That was up to his middleaged sons now, Elphir, Erchirion and Amrothos. Lothiriel had married and left. Silinde waited by the gates until the little group arrived and they caught up with him. He had no idea if there was room to talk to Bearden. His own Adunaic wasn’t that good and as Isandril did speak Sindarin the switch was quickly made. Silinde had been born in rather poor conditions and never had elite access to education as the better situated kids in town would have. Class differences existed everywhere. Lots of Minas Tirith city dwellers weren’t born in town, but elsewhere in the world. As this was the capital of Gondor, it was also the political and judicial heart, and the most important trade centre. Pelargir followed up as the most important harbour town along the coast.

He had given some gold coin, not that much you could build an entire city from it. But Silinde had no merchant feelings and neither knew the real value of gold. Perhaps it was bit much he had given, but it should help with getting the weapon back in prime condition, without wondering about the costs. “How is your sister now?” asked Isandril. “She is doing fine. Nursery maiden at court she has become. Partly she was accepted too, because of my knighthood, and so be trusted,” nodded Silinde. Nilida could be perhaps a halfsister to him, if he had really another father. Or were they both from another father? How much did she know? Both were middleaged now, neither young or old, in other words in the prime of life. Neither had married yet. His sister would never be as she had said, as she found her dream occupation and was really happy, and not being enslaved to a husband who dominated her. But Silinde smiled merrily and happy and left all negative emotions he felt behind closed borders. What he felt or thought was nothing to others, not even old friends. All of it was in the past and made no difference in today’s day and night time.

“And you?” he asked instead. “Oh?” started Isandril happy to talk. “After you left with the force, we had to rebuild our home, as in the lower levels it had been ransacked by the orcs, and destroyed half by the stones that flew over the walls. It was a hard time, hard labour. But we have a fine new house, even better than the old one.” Silinde listened curiously to the long line of words in Sindarin. “Me and all my siblings left home finally, we got married all, so three marriages were a lovely time for my mother. She got a few grandkids now. Sad though, we heard also in those final days that my father didn’t survive the battle.” “Aww I am sorry to learn that about your father. Were you able to hold a funeral?” said Silinde empathically. “Yeah we were, father was a loss to all of us, and a nephew of me was named after him in honour. He is part of a new generation that knows hope and prosperity in a very long time,” told Isandril as a good Gondorian member and citizen of Minas Tirith. “King Aragorn is the best thing that has happened to us this far.” He was clearly proud to be a guard of the capital. And why not? Silinde knew that his friend was a goodhearted fellow, but he had known the despair of the late years before the final demise of Sauron.

[Arnyn]

Kaylin
On the road from Osgiliath to Minas Tirith

Oh. She'd remembered wrong, then, about where they used to live. She had just been about to ask why they didn't just loved on that patch in the Pelennor still, when Eryn had mentioned her mother and baby brother were burried there and fell silent. Curious as she was, the silence had told Kaylin enough. Time to shut up about the subject.

Needing rest did not equal wanting it, but she was gratefull to Eryn for saying she could have it, regardless. When Baerden said the knight had left healing herbs and gold, Kaylin was genuinely surprised. Just like Eryn, apparently, although her young friend seemed confused, in addition. And a bit shocked, even. Kaylin shrugged. Sometimes people did the strangest things. When they did something from the goodness of their heart, she usually didn't question it. "Count your blessings," my mom used to say, she laughed (carefully) at Eryn's wide eyes.

Baerden was grinning, as well. "We didn't speak about Osgiliath. The only thing that was mentioned in conversation that required money was fixing that dagger of yours. Hence..."

They had arrived at the Great Gate now, and would soon be in Minas Tirith proper.

To be continued in the MT thread

[Romeran]

An Unexpected Delay
Ranger Trainee Romeran
At the Gates of Minas Tirith
@Pele Alarion @Rillewen
(Open to All)

"Well maybe we can learn the city together" Romeran offered. He was excited at the prospect of getting to know a new recruit like himself and especially someone else who was also new to the city "or at least get lost together" he added with a grin, it likely wasn't far from the truth. "It's the biggest city that I've ever been to" he said in agreement "although I guess that's not saying very much. I've been to Pelargir when I was a child and I walked through the," he paused "ruins of Osgiliath, but nothing quite like Minas Tirith. I'm doubt there are any cities left in middle-earth that could rival the White City" he proclaimed.

Having now partially at least recovered from his embarrassment, Romeran was glad that his calculations hadn't been completely incorrect and made a fool of himself in front of his captain yet again. He smiled and his face became somewhat less flushed as he relaxed. "I brought enough food and water for a day, although I don't expect it to take so long, but better safe than sorry as they say" he added. To be honest Romeran was planning on earing most of the rations regardless of whether it took him the entire day, but he didn't have to confess as much just now.

"I wasn't waiting for anyone in particular so we should head out then" he said. Romeran patted daisy on the side of her neck gently, and she snorted in response. Daisy only required slight encouragement with Romeran's legs to get her turned around and moving eastwards in the right direction again. Romeran pulled Daisy in between Trastion and Pele and with a nod to each of them to check that they were set, tapped Daisy with his heels and took off at an easy pace.

"I'm from a farm in Lossarnach" Romeran said in explanation to Trastion "so I know some of the area around there quite well, although honestly I spent most of my life on the farm and the surrounding land. It was one of the larger farms in Lossarnach." As they made their way down the main street still so close to the city the land hardly looked dramatically different from the first level of the city, albeit larger still. Romeran knew that as they got further out it would become more farm land as they got closer to the Rammas although nothing to the scale of his uncle's farm in Lossarnach. "'ve tried to take to map reading to try and get a lay of the land, at least the land around Gondor. I have very little knowledge still of the areas outside our borders" he confessed and looked over to the Captain wondering what sorts of places she might have been,

[Rillewen]

@Romeran @Pele Alarion

Trastion Leithor
New recruit

An Unexpected Delay


Trastion grinned back at Romeran. "That sounds fun. I have a feeling the latter is a bit more likely," He laughed. "Unless the Captain has anyone to suggest as a guide?" He glanced over at Pele with a smile, before turning back to Rome. "But perhaps eventually, we'll get to the point where we no longer get lost. Sometimes I think it's easier to get familiar with your surroundings after you've gotten lost in them a few times." Setting off along with the others, Trastion smiled as he had to hold Lightning back from taking off at a swifter pace. Hearing Romeran talk about having brought food, Trastion was glad to remember that he had also brought a lunch along, since he had been intending to stay out most of the day and explore.

"Oh, Lossarnach? That's not too far away, as I recall. It's just a little south of here, right?" He commented, thinking about what he remembered of his geography lessons. Most of that had been focused on Gondor, but his education had extended a little to lands beyond as well. Not that he'd paid strict attention to those lessons, but some of the information managed to stick. "I come from Lamedon, a little ways from Calembel." He added, debating how much he wanted to share just now. "I've been to, and lived in, a few different places, but this is the furthest I've ever been from home, in any direction. What about you, Captain? Are you from around here, or further off?" He wondered, keeping Lightning moving at the same pace as the other two, and looked around curiously at the scenery.

"Did you like it on the farm, Romeran?" He wondered, curious if he missed where he grew up. "Why'd you decide to join the rangers?" He couldn't stop the flow of curiosity, now. It was nice meeting others, and he'd like to be able to make friends of those he did meet. "For me, it was something I always dreamed about, since I was little." He grinned. "It took a while, but I'm here, finally."

[Pele Alarion]

@Romeran , @Rillewen

An Unexpected Delay

"The city should not be that intimidating if you follow the main street from one gate to the next and don't stray," Pele laughed good-naturedly at the two young men. "If you wish to find a guide, you could talk any of the more experienced Rangers into showing you around. Or - make use of maps. I'm sure the collection in the common room should have at least one of the city."

Pele gently pulled away Tender's head when he reached over to sniff at Daisy even though his ears were not laid back as often was the case before he attempted to bite, and he looked rather more curious this time rather than wanting to harm. For a while she then looked ahead down the road, a smile playing on her lips when she thought of home.

"I come from Lossarnach as well. Though initially my family lived in Ithilien until it became too dangerous to stay there," she eventually said in response to Trastion's question. "And yes, it is south, though it is still not close enough for me to travel back and forth each day. I figure our families live far enough from each other not to have met, Rome?"

"There's quite a lot to explore within Gondor, and so much more beyond," Pele said, thinking of some places she had travelled to. "I've been to Rohan several times - a lovely place. However, I wouldn't recommend going too far south; unless on a mission for the Rangers."

[Romeran]

An Unexpected Delay
Ranger Trainee Romeran
At the Gates of Minas Tirith
@Pele Alarion @Rillewen

"Kaylin has shown me around a bit" he confessed as Pele had suggested talking to one of the more senior rangers. "It was nice seeing parts of the city that aren't strictly related to rangers" for the most part, Romeran had spent his time training, eating, sleeping, or reading and largely within the confines of ranger designated areas such as the barracks or training grounds. It had been fun to go and see about the city as well as visit the old guesthouse. "I can also confirm that the maps are very useful, it's how I planned out today's patrol" Romeran recalled immediately having misspoken earlier about the direction and internally grimaced.

"Yes not too far south of here" he nodded "even still I had only rarely visited Minas Tirith my entire childhood" he confessed. Romeran nodded at Trastion's mention of his home, it was at least somewhere he was familiar with. When Trastion asked the captain from where she hailed Romeran realized that he did not know the answer and looked over curiously.

They were making a reasonable pace and Romeran was trying to simultaneously pay attention to the road, trying to take in the surroundings and get a feeling for the land, while also focusing on the conversation. Multitasking of this sort had never really been his strong suit but he did catch that the captain was also from Lossarnach and catch the question.

"I don't suppose so, or at least we never got visitors much anyway." farm live had been rather lonely, in the grand scheme of things, only seeing the few neighboring farm children and adults and Romeran had never been allowed on many of the journeys even much locally within Lossarnach. He decided not to elaborate further.

"I've always wanted to go to Rohan and see the land of the horsemen" he added, patting daisy calmly as they moved along. "I can't imagine an entire army of horse riders, although of course everyone knows the tales of the Battle of Pelennor, still it must have been a fantastic and terrible sight" he said. Several onlookers stared at the rangers curiously as they passed but did not pay them too much heed, quickly going back to their work. Romeran nodded at a few of them. He wondered how curious he must have looked such a large man on a large horse and dressed in ranger's garb to boot. By his count it would take them less than half the journey's time to the Rammas. Romeran was particularly eager to see it again having only left the gates a few times, and this one only once with Duinion, since his arrival. Romeran tapped Daisy lightly and she sped up slightly in her rider's eagerness. Romeran was careful not to tire them out, and checked her pace somewhat, but still perhaps a bit faster.

[Rillewen]

@Romeran @Pele Alarion

Trastion Leithor
New recruit

An Unexpected Delay


"Stay on the main street?" Trastion repeated, as if that were unheard of. "What would be the fun in that?" He grinned, joking. "There's so much exploration to do... it's much more interesting to follow the side streets and learn where they lead, and explore different, alternate routes to get places." He shrugged, smiling a little. "Where do you go about finding a map of the city, Romeran?" He wondered. That would actually make any future explorations far easier, he figured, although he didn't mind getting lost, so long as he wasn't running late for anything important.

The captain mentioned having traveled to Rohan, among other places. He'd heard a little about that place, though he couldn't say he really knew what it was like. Talk moved briefly to the Battle of the Pelennor, which he'd heard plenty about, but he hadn't been there to see it. If his family hadn't been so busy trying to defend their own land from invading enemies, then they probably would have gone along to fight with the others, but at least there was plenty of lumber after the war, to make the necessary repairs to buildings and other things which were damaged during the battle.

Trastion fell silent for a few moments, thinking back on all of that, but also unsure how to contribute to that part of the conversation. There was not much he could say without revealing things he didn't want revealed. And besides, he was supposed to have been in Lamedon at the time, working some job as a commoner, not going to battle or anything like that. Caught up in his thoughts, Trastion barely noticed the folks they passed as they rode along, busy looking out at the horizon and all the new sights here. "Why not too far South, captain?" He asked after a little while, realizing that it had been silent for some time.

[Rillewen]

Private with @Ercassie

Ademar Androllius
Posing as Unalmis Raxëlilta
Under a large oak tree overlooking the Pelennor Fayregrounds
At noon, following the delivery of a certain Letter

He couldn't help feeling a little nervous. There was every reason to worry that this scheme would fail... and just as many reasons for it to succeed. There was far too much resting on chance and luck, and he didn't really like that. But this wasn't his idea. The idea of pretending to be Unalmis, his old childhood nemesis, was actually quite distasteful to Mar, but here he was, awaiting a man who may or may not come. Who may or may not be suspicious of him. Who may or may not discover that he was not his nephew, and would then wonder why he would say he was... and who may or may not turn out to be dangerous when angered. Judging from what he'd once done to the one who came up with this idea, Mar had a suspicion he was, indeed, rather dangerous when angered. So, he hoped this impersonation scheme would go smoothly, despite his feelings about it.

Impersonating his brother was one thing... Mar felt that he knew Ric better than Ric did, but Unalmis? He sighed, leaning his back against the trunk of the tree. At least he knew enough about his former classmate that he should be able to pull this off without too much difficulty. He hadn't even had to do but the slightest bit of research about Unalmis and his family, to update a little bit of his knowledge of the Raxeliltas. There was plenty that he knew about the other young man without even trying to know, and other knowledge he had sought out years ago, for the purpose of using it against him. He never imagined, back then, that such knowledge would come in handy later. Things that he used to tease and taunt Unalmis about, in their school days would now serve to aid him in deceiving the others' long lost relative. But would he even show up? Mar cast a glance up at the sky, let out a sigh, and folded his arms. Perhaps he wouldn't want to leave the safety of that shop he was hiding in. But he was a little early. And besides, there was plenty of time. Having been observing things for some time, he was well aware that the real Unalmis was busy at the training grounds with the woman who was harboring the man whom Mar was expecting. He'd overheard them talking together as they passed through the gates yesterday, and knew this was to be the arrangement for the whole week, at least, and they wouldn't be finishing up for some time yet. So there was little chance of either of them happening along and ruining his carefully plotted scheme.

Mentally, he went over all of what he knew about Unalmis, and various family members, close friends. Things the real Unalmis would certainly know. He reminded himself that he didn't have to act like Unalmis... just convince this man that he is Unalmis. After all, he would have no way of knowing what Unalmis would look like, nor how he acted, or anything. He hadn't seen him since the boy was...two? three? Mar paused, thinking hard. Then realized, it didn't really matter, because maybe Unalmis wouldn't even be certain of that, being so young at the time. All that really mattered, he reminded himself, was that he was convincing. He mustn't disappoint the one who had suggested this deception, after all...

[Pele Alarion]

An Unexpected Delay
Heading eastwards along the road from MT
@Rillewen , @Romeran

Pele had spent such a long time in the city that she was too used to its circles and most side streets as well, almost to the point where she had forgotten how the excitement of first getting here had felt. She only smiled as she listened to more talking about getting lost and maps but did not join in.

"I have not seen a whole army of Rohan either," she commented on another of the topics though. "A few riders, yes. Brave people."

Her eyes darkened for a few moments at the mention of the Battle of Pelennor though. She had heard stories, sure; but she would have preferred to have been present and participating rather than fending for her own life who knew where. She had not even been aware of the war until she had somehow managed to get back finally and hear the news.

Silent and thoughtful, Pele returned some of the looks people gave them, managing a small smile as means of greeting. Meanwhile Temper did not have to be urged on, and he gladly picked up the pace to keep up with Daisy, and would have hastened onwards if Pele had not held him back.

"Hmm? Why not too far south?" she repeated Trastion's question and pulled herself out of thinking too much. "Suppose it greatly depends on which side of river you travel on. On western side there's much to explore, even up to Dol Amroth. Eastern side might offer some adventures too, but Harondor and beyond might not really be counted as travel-friendly."

[Arnyn]

The Pelennor Fields, Cerimë (summer)
@Rillewen


Arnyn
&

Kaylin

In one of their conversations about the Rangers as a unit, Pele had shared the information with Arnyn that a few months prior, Duinion had suffered an injury to his foot during an excursion into the mountains. Arnyn had inquired as to the healing process, but while Pele knew the Tirdinen's situation was indeed improving, the Captain had no specifics at present. One of the things that was difficult to follow up on closely when handling all affairs alone, especially when it concerned a Ranger who did not inhabit the barracks, or even the city proper. Yet Pele was no longer alone.
Arnyn had therefore ensnared Hyandaner Kaylin, who knew Duinion tended to stay at a certain farm with his daughter when he wasn't out and about in the woods or the open country, to take her to the farm in question.

Kaylin had jumped at the idea, thinking she was long overdue for a visit with Eryn anyways. Kaylin was looking forward to catching up with Eryn, although also perhaps a little apprehensive knowing Duinion would be there. Eryn had said she was not planning on telling her father anything about their little adventure in Ithilien, but who knew how that had all turned out in the end? The truth had a way of revealing itself, Kaylin had learned. She supposed she would just see what was what, when she got there. At least Duinion hadn't seemed angry with her at the meeting at HQ recently. That was reassuring, at least.

Meanwhile, Arnyn would be able to use the opportunity of checking on Duinion's healing process to get a better sense of the man. He was an experienced Ranger, Pele had informed her, yet he had not been a part of their mission to the Poros the previous year, and Arnyn knew next to nothing about him, other than his specialization, his main weapon and what little tidbits Pele had shared. Talking to Kaylin on the way to the farm, it was soon apparent that she hardly knew Duinion either and was much more familiar with his daughter.
Honestly, Arnyn found Kaylin rather amusing. The redheaded Hyandaner was clearly very sociable, and didn't care much for age barriers when it came to making friends. The newly minted Lieutenant smiled when Kaylin divulged into a story of starting a food fight in the barracks mess hall.

When the story was finished, Kaylin gave Arnyn a sidelong glance. "But I hear you need no ideas from me on how to get Lieutenant Brian on your bad side?"
Arnyn held back a chuckle and managed a small grin instead. "I'm sure I have no idea what you mean."
Kaylin narrowed her eyes. "Nooooo... of course you don't..."
With a small sigh, Arnyn shrugged. "Brian is good at what he does. But... he can be a real spoil sport. People need to let loose once in a while. Especially people who do what we do. I did nothing more than recognize that fact."
"I heard you rather facilitated that fact, actually."
"Hmm." Arnyn looked ahead. "Is that the place?"
"Aye, it is." Kaylin ran a hand through her hair. "I haven't actually been inside, though."
The blonde nodded. "The front door is rarely a bad idea, then."

The two women made their way to the farm's front door and Arnyn rang the metal bell on the wall next to it.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Daisy Dairy Farm - Cerimë

The farm was mostly quiet, with the occasional cow mooing in the nearby fields. A simple fence prevented them from venturing too close to the house, and therefore, kept them from getting to the flowers growing in boxes up on the porch and windows. There was one cow that had come right up to the fence, chewing on a mouthful of grass as she watched the visitors ring the bell. She decided to greet them in her own way, with a loud 'Mooooo!', almost as if questioning what they wanted, unless she was simply saying 'hello'.

It took a moment before the door opened, and a dark-haired woman smiled, brushing a little at a couple of damp spots on her apron where some milk had splashed her. "Hello, can I help you?" She asked with a pleasant smile, quite sure she had not seen either of them before. But perhaps they were coming to make inquiries about getting milk, or some other dairy-related thing. So long as they weren't here to complain about something, their business would be welcome. But it seemed that wasn't to be the case, she realized a moment later...

"Kaylin!" Eryn called happily, hurrying to join the woman at the door. "What brings you here?" She smiled at Arnyn as well. "Hello, I suppose you're looking for my father, Duinion?" She guessed that it might be ranger business that had brought them here. Kaylin, she knew was a ranger, and the woman with her sort of looked like she might be one, too. Besides, Eryn doubted anyone would ask for a ranger escort to come out and get some milk.

[Arnyn]

The Pelennor Fields, Cerimë (summer)
@Rillewen


Arnyn
&

Kaylin

When a dark-haired woman opened the door, Arnyn gave her a slight bow, and was about to reply when a different, younger voice called out Kaylin's name. That would be Eryn, then. Arnyn returned the girl's smile. "Hello - Eryn, I presume?" A glance at Kaylin showed the redhead giving her a quick nod of affirmation. Arnyn looked at back at Eryn. "I am looking for Duinion, yes." Then her dark eyes fell on the black-haired woman. "And since Kaylin explained on the way here that this is a dairy farm, I would very much like to sample some of your products before I leave, and see what I can purchase to take back with me into the City."

Kaylin's eyes widened slightly at that as she looked at Arnyn. She didn't remember explaining anything about the farm. While it was possible she had said 'dairy farm' at some point in their conversation, she had said nothing more on the subject. Yet the Lieutenant had picked up on the detail and now used it in order to be... well. Incredibly polite, Kaylin might call it. Or perhaps even considerate.
"Yes..." Kaylin cleared her throat as she mentally tucked away the new bit of information about the woman next to her, nodded a hello to the dark-haired woman she did not know and then turned her attention to Eryn. "Since the Lieutenant wanted to speak with your father, I thought I'd show her where the farm was rather than just explain it, so I could use the opportunity to catch up with you a bit. I've been so busy and it's been too long since we last saw each other - at least for proper conversation. So I'm here for you, rather than Duinion." They had seen each other recently at the Erulaitalë celebration, yet they hadn't really touched base properly.

Arnyn nodded. "So, is your father around?" She imagined he would not be traipsing around too much if his foot was still bothering him, but such injuries were difficult to predict. "I would like to see how his foot is treating him."

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Aggie & Eryn
Daisy Dairy Farm - Cerimë

Eryn smiled as she nodded. "Yes, I'm Eryn," She confirmed, just before her guess was also confirmed. She was going to add that she didn't think her father would be ready for any ranger excursions just yet, but then the Lieutenant had turned to Aggie to speak to her. Eryn kept quiet so not to interrupt, all the while burning with curiosity about what this visit was about.

"Ah, Kaylin," Aggie nodded to hear that name. "I've heard about you from Eryn. I'm Aggie... It's nice to meet you. And you as well I'm sure, Lieutenant," she added. She had indeed heard a bit about Eryn's friend Kaylin, although she hadn't heard about their adventure some time back. She then turned back to the blond lady before her, slightly surprised. She smiled. "Certainly, I'd be more than happy to oblige your request, Lieutenant." She replied. "We were just churning some fresh butter, and we also have cheese, and of course.. milk and cream." That said, she decided to leave the dairy business until later, since the lieutenant had really come to see Dui.

"Yes ma'am," Eryn answered, when asked if her father was around. "He'll be out in the field, resting... I hope."

"I can take you to him, while those two catch up." Aggie offered with a smile toward Eryn and Kaylin, motioning for Arnyn to come with her. "It's quicker to go through the house," She explained as she led the way through, and eventually out the back door. "He prefers to stay outside," She explained as they went through a gate and out to the field, wanting to make it clear that it was by his own choice that he was out there, instead of in the house.


Grinning once Aggie and Arnyn had gone in search of Duinion, Eryn eagerly grabbed Kaylin's arm. "Come on, I have to show you something!" She declared eagerly, tugging her along in the other direction, outside and toward one of the pastures. "Look," She stopped at the fence bordering the pasture, and pointed to a blond and white mare that was galloping happily in the field. "She's mine! For my birthday," She explained, grinning. "I couldn't believe it. It's the same horse I fell in love with back in Rohan, months ago! My dad... I'm not sure how he managed it, but I was so surprised!" She whistled for the horse, and she came trotting toward them. "Her name is Buttercup," Eryn added with a smile, petting the horse once she had come up to nuzzle Eryn's shoulder.

---

Aggie & Duinion
2 Weeks after Midsummer

A few wisps of smoke gently rose from his small campfire, hidden from view by a hollow in the ground. "Dui, you have a visitor," Aggie called as they drew nearer. As Duinion's camp came into view, they would see him sitting on his bedroll with one leg stretched out and resting, elevated, on some pillows. He had his back resting comfortably against a tree that provided shade for him, and the ground around had been carefully cleared of grass or leaves that might catch fire. Around him was evidence that he had been crafting arrows in his rather plentiful spare time. A lot of arrows.

Curious to see who had come to visit, Duinion had looked up upon hearing Aggie's call, looking past her to see who it was. Of all the people he would have expected to see, Arnyn was certainly not among them, and he was surprised to see her there. "Hyandaner." He acknowledged the woman with some surprise, mingled with a bit of concern for why she would have come out here seeking him. "Has something happened that I ought to know about?" He couldn't imagine quite what would have given her cause to come here to find him, but he could only imagine it must be important.

[Arnyn]

The Pelennor Fields, Cerimë (summer)
@Rillewen


Arnyn

Kaylin smiled at Aggie's self-introduction, while Arnyn gave Aggie a pleasant nod. "Thank you. And please, call me Arnyn," she told Aggie in response to her offer, and moved to follow the woman. Looking back at Kaylin and Eryn, Arnyn held up a hand. "Feel free to do as you wish, Kaylin," indicating there was no need for Kaylin to wait for her or check in with her if she wanted to leave, for instance. "And if our paths don't cross again before I leave - it was nice to meet you, Eryn." Then Arnyn followed Aggie into the house and through it, trying not to invade the privacy of their home by taking in too many details, but noticing more than her politeness would have her do, nonetheless. "You have a lovely home, Aggie, if you do not mind me saying so."

She was already learning more about Duinion from the way Aggie called him 'Dui' as well as how they found him in the field. He was camping out here? A quick scan was all it took, since he was sitting on his bedroll, he had a fire and he had made himself very comfortable with pillows and a well-chosen tree. "Thank you, Aggie," Arnyn told the black-haired woman in a genuine tone of voice, before turning her full attention to the Ranger.

His surprise was evident as he greeted her. When he asked if something had transpired that he should know about, a hint of worry touching the words perhaps, Arnyn shook her head. "Nay, Duinion."

Lowering herself to the ground into a cross-legged position on the the other side of his campfire, she turned her attention to the ranger. "There are things I should know about, though." A smile found its way to her eyes most of all, more faintly to her lips. "How are you?" She indicated his foot with a small gesture. "And I'm interested in more than the generic answer you might give most people."


Kaylin

When Eryn eagerly grabbed her arm, Kaylin grinned back at her friend's enthusiasm. Her curiosity was instantly rearing its head as she followed Eryn to a fence. When her eyes fell on a pretty mare in the pasture, and Eryn proudly explained the horse was hers - a birthday gift - Kaylin smiled happily. "Ohhh, Eryn, that's great! Wait, what? The same horse? No kidding!" Her surprise was genuine. Duinion had gone to great lengths to acquire Eryn's birthday gift, then! "Well done, Duinion," she said with no small amount of approval, even though the man was nowhere around.

She laughed when Eryn told her the horse's name. "Buttercup? That's a very suitable name. She seems like a very nice horse." Kaylin suddenly wondered about something. "How well do you ride, anyway?"

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Daisy Dairy Farm - Cerimë


Duinion

Setting aside the arrowshaft that he had been prepping for fletching, Duinion raised an eyebrow slightly at the reply from Arnyn. A glance showed that Aggie had returned to the house after taking Arnyn to the camp, probably not wanting to be nosy in case it was secret ranger business. "You came all the way out here to check on me?" He asked, somewhat surprised as well as amused. He didn't know much about the newly-appointed second in command, but it was interesting that she would do such a thing. Unless Eryn was behind this... he considered that possibility. "Well, it's still there," He answered with a shrug and a glance toward the foot. "As it likes to remind me whenever I try to use it." He couldn't bring himself to complain about it, no matter how much it hurt him, as the memory of Addhor's lost leg seemed to hover in his mind, waiting to guilt him if he dared complain of pain in his own foot. Not that Addhor was likely to reprimand him on the matter, but still...

"Can I offer you some tea, Lieutenant?" Duinion tried to veer the subject away from his injury, gesturing to the pot heating on the fire. It had surely had time to heat enough, by now. A couple of beat-up tin cups rested upside down on a low branch near him, as if they've been hung there to dry after being washed. He considered her added comment, that she wanted more than the 'generic' answer. "The foot hurts, but I'm told it's healing. Slower than I would like." He added, with a soft sigh. "But my daughter is quite insistent that I regularly have it checked. And my sister has sided with her. Between the two of them, they make sure I stay off of it. They'd probably tie me down if they could." He added with a small grin. "I'll bet Aggie will come back with a tray of food for us both, before long," he added, rolling his eyes, but a sparkle of amusement showed in them.

---

Erynneth

"Yes," Eryn grinned, watching Buttercup sniff at Kaylin curiously. "Apparently, the very same day that I was telling him all about this wonderful horse, he went and spoke to the man who had her." She explained. "I never even realized... I was sooo disappointed the next day when they told me she had been sold... but I had no idea that it was him who'd bought her." She laughed. "Sneaky ranger skills, right?" She grinned. "I think she likes it here, too." The horse certainly seemed happy, having plenty of grassy fields to run around in, and Eryn showering her with love and attention, as well as treats.

She considered Kaylin's question. "Well enough, I guess. I used to ride on Storm, but he's old and not very interested in running. He's mostly for pulling the milk cart." The older grey horse was grazing off in the field, not very interested in playing and running around like Buttercup. "Before that, we had a horse when I was much younger, that I used to ride on sometimes." That was the one she had learned to ride on, she recalled, long ago. "Why do you ask?" Eryn wondered, glancing curiously at her friend and wondering if she had in mind some new sort of adventure.

[Romeran]

An Unexpected Delay
Heading eastwards along the road from MT
@Pele Alarion @Rillewen

It hadn't been Romeran's intention to turn the conversation into something sad, but he had brought it up after all.

"Well one day I'd like to visit Rohan" he declared simply, perhaps that would end any further ruminations on wars from the past. In fact, Romeran did intend to visit Rohan when he got a chance, not that he was particularly sure when exactly that would happen -- perhaps there would be a reason for him to travel to Rohan with the rangers, if he was lucky.

The path towards the Eastern gate was well kept, especially this close to the city gates, and while people went about their business they paid little mind to the three rangers as they trotted down the still large path. Romeran smiled as they past a few children playing a game, he was still close to youth himself, closer in age to the children playing than their parents by all appearances. He wondered if it would be strange to suddenly associate more with the parents than the children, when would that happen, he thought, before realizing he was distracted from the conversation.

"I have been as far south as Pelargir but never Dol Amroth, I hear it is a beautiful place to see and of course the Swan Knights are famous beyond even our borders" Romeran mused, he had heard stories of the Swan Knights and the Princes of Dol Amroth but only in stories. "Have you met any of the Swan Knights or been to Dol Amroth, Captain?" he asked. While the war was over it was still fresh and he decided it best to ask questions about the Western side of the great river and not the East, lest he accidently drive the conversation to morbid topics again. Romeran patted Daisy on the neck as the horse let out a snort of approval, falling into a comfortable trot alongside the other two horses. It was turning out to be a nice day as well, Romeran felt glad he had decided to go on such a tour today and lucky to have found such company.

[Arnyn]

The Pelennor Fields, Cerimë (summer)
@Rillewen


Arnyn

Duinion's surprise seemed to carry on after she'd indicated why she was here. Arnyn returned some of his surprise as she frowned slightly and smiled. "I would say it is only normal that your well-being should be high on my list. Besides, it is a welcome excuse to escape the city for a while." While she loved Minas Tirith dearly, she also enjoyed time outside its circles. While the last bit was not so much a reason for her presence here as it was an agreeable bonus, perhaps mentioning it would make Duinion feel more at ease.

Just as she wanted to ask whether his foot was progressing as it should be and what the healers had to say about the recovery process, he offered her some answers that turned most of the questions on her mind moot. She took a moment to think about the information Duinion had just given her, and then nodded slowly with an amused smile.

In regards to his earlier offer of tea and gesture at the pot over his campfire, Arnyn quickly scanned the campsite. "Gladly. Don't get up, I can pour it."

As she rose back to her feet to lift two cups from the tree branch Duinion was apparently using as some kind of drying rack or perhaps even a storage option, Arnyn's smile grew a little at his comments about his family. "Sounds like they are behaving as loving family members ought to, even though it can feel like fussing to people like us. I met your daughter upon our arrival - she was friendly and keenly surmised I was looking for you." Sitting down on one knee next to the fire, she poured one cup and glanced at Duinion. "A cup for you, as well, I take it?" Arnyn rose to her feet and approached the Tirdinen, holding out the cup. She could always pour her own, after. "I would rather not drink alone."

She realized her earlier comment about Eryn probably needed a tad more elaboration. "I took Hyandaner Kaylin with me. Considering they are friends, your daughter might have assumed Kaylin had come to see her and would have brought me along for some reason. But it seems like Eryn picked up on enough details to make the right connections."

Arnyn tilted her head. "Is Aggie your sister?" she questioned. A hint of curiosity tilted at her words - Duinion and Aggie hardly looked alike. "She spoke to me kindly. I hope she does not burden herself with hostess duties for my sake, and would rather bring out the food simply because it is about time you ate something." Her smile brightened a bit. "Yet, in the case she were hoping to kill two birds with one stone, well, I can only applaud such efficient thinking."


Kaylin

"Very sneaky," Kaylin agreed, "but in all the right ways." Kaylin took a closer look at Buttercup while the mare sniffed at her. "She certainly looks happy enough, yes. At ease." When Eryn answered her question and added a question of her own, Kaylin raised her hands and laughed. "Oy, oy! I'm not planning anything just yet, if that's what you're thinking!" Grinning, Kaylin shrugged. "I was just wondering, since riding is also a valuable ranger skill... with your plans for the future, and all that. Riding - prolongued riding, horse care, and mounted combat, I suppose."

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Daisy Dairy Farm - Cerimë


Duinion
2 weeks after midsummer

Nodding thoughtfully, Duinion concluded that her interest in his well-being was probably tied to her recent promotion, meaning that her duties as a lieutenant probably involved knowing the condition of each member. He couldn't find fault with that, and was glad. It meant she had taken the duties that went with her promotion seriously. "I can't blame you on that," He answered her other comment. "Every time I set foot in the city, I'm counting the seconds till I can escape it." He smiled slightly. He had no idea how much or how little Arnyn knew about him, but it wasn't really a secret that he didn't enjoy being in the city.. any city.

He was going to protest about her getting the tea, but he couldn't really deny that she was able to get it much faster than he would have. "Yes, one for me. Thank you," He added, taking the offered cup, and setting it down for the moment while he reached over into a small A-frame shelter on one side of the tree, made of sticks and covered in layers of dried grass so that it blended fairly well with the field. He pulled out a jar full of dried herbs. "I have a few different kinds. This is a mix of lavender and rose hips, and I'll add some ground up willow bark to mine. But I also have plain tea leaves, and..." He thought to recall what other options he had. "Peppermint, and a couple others." After grabbing his jar of the willow bark, he waited to see if she preferred a different type than his, and once she had chosen her tea, he added his blend into his own cup. "If you'd like sweetener, I have some honey in here, too." He added. He didn't add any to his tea, but kept some handy for times when Eryn joined him, as she preferred hers sweet.

Arnyn's comment about Eryn having so quickly deduced her reason for coming brought a small smile to his face. "Eryn is a smart and observant girl, and since I can't seem to talk her out of eventually joining the rangers..." He sighed, before proceeding, "I must admit, I think she'll make a good one." That didn't stop him worrying about her, of course, and wishing she'd change her mind. "Also, in my opinion, she's the best daughter anyone could ask for." He paused and added with a slight grin, "I might be just a bit biased, of course." He took a careful sip of tea, wondering a little about what Eryn and her friend were up to. Probably, Eryn was showing off her horse, he guessed with a smile.

The question about Aggie brought his attention back to Arnyn. He hesitated briefly, debating the most honest way to answer that, before giving a slight nod. "In all the ways that count... yes. We don't share the same parents, but.." He shrugged. "Neither of us knows who our parents were, and grew up together as brother and sister.. so, she'll always be my little sister, as far as I'm concerned." After a moment of thoughtfulness, he added, "I suppose you could say I "adopted" her as a sister when I was... about five? I think.. the same day she arrived at the orphanage. She couldn't quite talk yet, then." He blew on the hot tea, frowning slightly at the memories that had been stirred up. "She was so small and helpless... I was afraid for her, so I made it my business to protect her and look after her the best I could. If no one had ever told her otherwise, she would've genuinely believed I was her brother. Still, knowing the truth didn't really change much."

He glanced up, curious about her comment about killing two birds with one stone. "Hm? Which two birds would that be?" He asked with a puzzled smile.

---

Erynneth

Eryn grinned, pleased to hear that she had yet another ranger skill already. "I can ride and I mostly took care of Smoke for years, now both of them. But I'm not sure how long I'd be able to ride, or if I could fight from horseback," She tilted her head, thinking on that. "That sounds like it'd be tricky... does the horse get to wear any armor?" She stroked Buttercup's neck thoughtfully. "I'd hate for her to end up harmed somehow." She tried to imagine fighting or shooting from horseback, and it seemed tricky and difficult. "I'd like to learn, I think." She declared, adding yet another thing to her mental list of things to learn to do.

"Maybe sometime, you could come out here with a horse, and we can go riding together." She suggested. "I mean, we couuuld do that now, but Smoke is sort of..boring. And Buttercup likes to run." Eryn laughed. She couldn't quite imagine Kaylin enjoying a ride on the calm, older horse. "I was going to tell you about Buttercup when I saw you at the Erulaitalë, but I didn't really get much of a chance to talk to you, then." She added, remembering the last time she'd seen Kaylin, however briefly. "Oh that reminds me! Did you have a nice time at it?" She asked cheerfully. "I saw you dancing with your husband, you both looked very happy." She grinned. "And then I got a bit caught up with a couple of other friends and..well...yeah. I think everything turned out well by the end of the day."

[Arnyn]

The Pelennor Fields, Cerimë (summer)
@Rillewen


Arnyn

It had been brought to her attention that Duinion wasn't the biggest fan of the city, or being indoors for that matter, but his comment and the camp he'd clearly made for himself out here in the field, was now making her think it was less of a preference and more of a phobia. Perhaps not quite as bad as the latter, but still closer to the latter than the former. Not wanting to get the wrong idea, she made a mental note to return to the subject later.

After Duinion took the cup of hot water, Arnyn poured one for herself and then returned the pot to its former place. She took a seat next to Duinion now, instead of on the other side of the fire, as he was going through her options for tea. "Lavender and rose hips will be fine, thank you. And while it is kind of you to offer, I don't put honey in my tea."

She reciprocated the small smile on his face when he spoke of his daughter and as she let the blend steep in her own cup. "The challenges and blessings of having a child," was her initial comment, as her smile grew slightly upon hearing Duinion saying Eryn was the best daughter anyone could wish for. She even grinned momentarily when he said he might be a bit biased. "Just a tad, I am sure," Arnyn said, hiding her lips behind her tea cup as she took a whiff of the fragrance.

Hearing that Aggie was more of a sister by choice than by blood, didn't phase her. She merely listened attentively, acknowledging everyfew sentences that she was still following by a look or a nod. At his question, she tilted her head and lowered the tea cup, resting her elbows on her folded knees, holding the cup in her lap with her hands.

"I merely meant that your sister might feel that bringing out a platter of food would, for one, ascertain that you had something decent to eat, and secondly, show her hospitality." She waved her own comment away. "Regardless... I understand what you mean quite well. Brothers and sisters have come to me in different ways. I have a brother by blood whom I love dearly and would never trade in for the world. But I have also had a brother through friendship and shared experience, for instance. And I am not sure what bond was stronger than the other." The past tense indicated that she was no stranger to sadness, and although her expression stayed positive, her eyes flicked over to the campfire for a brief moment before returning to Duinion. "And then I've had the pleasure of forming fast friendships over the years with brothers and sisters in arms." It had been a few of those fast friendships, actually, which had evolved to bonds that might be considered stronger than biological family. She shrugged a shoulder and smiled faintly, as if almost apologizing for the topic.

Arnyn nodded at the shelter next to the tree. "Is it more that you prefer being outdoors, or rather that you need to be outdoors?" She slanted her head, thinking to clarify her statement slightly. "To feel comfortable?"


Kaylin

Kaylin smiled. "The horse gets to wear armor if the mission might require it and you deem it wise. Although if you would prefer not to take Buttercup, for example, there is no reason why you could not use a horse from the stables when necessary. I do it, because I have no horse of my own. You could keep Buttercup safe by doing the same. Besides, if you would like to use Buttercup, she would need specific training, to make sure she does not spook at the wrong time." Kaylin softly touched the mare's neck. "Some horses are simply not made for it."

She wondered if she could borrow a horse from the stables to simply come out riding. "Well, I suppose no one asks me what I need the horse for when I take one out of the stables," she mused. "I could maybe do that. Yeah."

As Eryn asked about the midsummer celebration and whether Kaylin'd had a nice time, a silly little grin found its way to her face. She couldn't quite shake it. "Hmm. Yes, I had a great time." Laughing quietly, she eyed Eryn with a glint in her eyes. Once she'd tamped her amusement down to a grin, Kaylin cleared her throat. "Oh yes, that's right. I saw you with Unalmis and a group of others I didn't know. Seems like a fun bunch? I mean, I would imagine Unalmis has interesting friends. Right?" Kaylin raised an eyebrow, still grinning.

[Rillewen]

@Arnyn

Daisy Dairy Farm - Cerimë


Duinion
2 weeks after midsummer

After they both had enough of the herbs in their cups, he placed the jar back in its place. "I don't either, but Eryn takes after her mother, and prefers to add some sweetening when she has tea." He explained. "I never really gave much thought about tea at all, until my wife..." he mentioned quietly, wondering if it seemed strange for a man to be drinking flowery tea. "It seems just about every plant has some sort of use, medicinally, although I can't claim to know half as much about all of that as some do," he smiled faintly. Taking a small sip of his tea, he listened as Arnyn explained what she meant, and nodded slightly. "Ah, yes. That sounds about like her," he agreed. He was slightly surprised she chose to sit next to him rather than return to her previously chosen spot, but he didn't comment. "She's been bringing me plenty to eat, so I have no doubt that's what she'll do," he smiled and shrugged. "Normally I would bring things to add to the larder for her and her husband," he sighed. "But it'll be some time before I'm able to do much hunting or trapping." He didn't like this one bit, and couldn't help feeling a little useless while his injuries healed.

Listening, Duinion glanced at Arnyn as she spoke of her brothers, one by blood and one by choice. He recognized the same tone in her voice as he heard so often in his own when speaking of those he'd lost. As well as the past tense. "I'm sorry, I know how hard it is to lose a loved one." He spoke softly, with sincerity, as several of those he had lost flashed through his mind. Very hard indeed.

The topic of lost loved ones thankfully passed before it grew too emotional, and he was somewhat relieved for that. Some losses were still too painful to bring up, even with those he was close with, and there was not yet such a closeness with himself and the lieutenant that he could freely speak about such things.

Her question, however, gave him pause. He glanced at her briefly, thinking on that question, before looking down at his tea to think on it some more. "Hm.." That took some thinking, as he'd never really given it enough thought to put into words, before. "Well... no one has ever asked me that before, I don't think." He leaned his head back on the tree trunk, considering his feelings on the matter. "I am far more comfortable outside than in. Not to say that I can't go indoors, it's not that. I will, if I have reason. I'll even come into the city when I must. But.." He frowned, trying to find the words to explain it. "I hate crowds. I.. don't like being around too many people. I don't know if it makes sense to you or anyone else... I don't mind one or two people around. You sitting there doesn't bother me, but.. if a couple more people came along and sat down that close by.. that would make me..uncomfortable. Any more than that, and I'd have to remove myself from their midst." It was a little awkward to talk about that, but he considered that might be something the captain's second in command might need to know, and so tried not to let his feelings hinder him from being honest with the lieutenant. "That's why I dislike being in the city." He took a slow, deep breath, and continued, "As for.. this," he glanced around his campsite, and shrugged. "I don't like to sleep indoors. I..can't, sleep while I'm indoors. I haven't in years.. not since my wife died. It's..hard to explain."

---

Erynneth

Kaylin made a good point about the horse not having to be Buttercup. Eryn nodded, smiling. She was glad to hear that there were other horses that could be borrowed for such a thing. "Good. I'd hate for anything to happen to her," she smiled and kissed the horse on the nose. She was even more happy to hear that Kaylin might just be able to come out sometime to ride with her. "That'd be fun!" she said happily. Maybe Kaylin could even let her tag along on some sort of patrol thingy, so it was officially 'ranger business' while still having fun. It was a possibility, and what kind of danger could possibly happen right here within the Pelennor? She thought it would be perfect.

A faint blush touched her cheeks at the mention of her being seen with Unalmis and his friends, but she tried to pretend it wasn't there. "Yes, he introduced me to all his friends. I met Cali once before... she's the smith at your armory there at the ranger headquarters, you know. She's the one who fixed the..you know what," she added in a whisper, glancing around briefly to make sure there wasn't anyone around to overhear. "And, it turned out, my uncle who made it, that was her brother! So she was very happy to see it." She smiled and grinned. "He does have interesting friends. I think I saved them from having a falling out, too.. at least, it was sort of my idea how we got them to make up. But I think we all had a nice time, after that." She couldn't help a grin, and sought to divert the attention elsewhere.

"Um, would you like to go for a ride now?" She wondered, motioning to the horse. "I think she'd be fine with us riding double.. neither of us is all that heavy, I'm sure." She mentioned, then added as an afterthought, "I mean, if you don't mind riding bareback. I don't have a saddle."

[Arnyn]

The Pelennor Fields, Cerimë (summer)
@Rillewen


Arnyn

In reality, she didn't think anything of Duinion drinking tea, whether it was the flowery kind or otherwise. The references to his wife were personal, of course, and sensing that was a topic better left untouched - at leats on her initiative - Arnyn didn't follow up on it. Duinion mentioned he didn't know as much as some on the topic of medicinal herbs, which made Arnyn smile. "Let's leave that those who are interested enough so they would not accidentally give someone the wrong kind of herb," she said drily. Other than basic first aid, she was unskilled in matters of healing. Thankfully, there were others who fulfilled the role well.

In reference to Aggie, Arnyn smiled. "Sounds like she is merely seeking to return the favor, then. And before long, I am sure the tables will turn once again, and you will be the one bringing them meats for their stores."
She nodded when the Tirdinen said he knew what it was like to lose a loved one. Yes. Unfortunately, many of them did. As if by mutual agreement, they did not elaborate on it further, and that suited her very well.

It surprised her that no one had ever asked Duinion about his feelings about being outdoors. It had been rather apparent to her rather quickly that the Ranger gatherings at HQ were occasions he preferred to keep short. He always seemed to escape HQ as quickly as he could. Yet he had shown few if any difficulties during their outing into the woods beyond the northern gate of the Rammas. Arnyn tried to gauge his expression during his reply, and wondered whether he found it hard to talk about. After he said it was hard to explain, she deliberated for a moment.

"I am trying to get a feel for who you are, Duinion. I do not want you to feel forced to talk about details that make you feel uncomfortable. You can simply say so if that is the case. If necessary, I can always insist." She paused, took a sip of the tea, and then looked at him again. "I simply noticed the difference in your body language indoors, at HQ for example, as opposed to during our outing with the Captain some months ago. Very different. And while it was simply a point of interest to me before... I would like to know more about everyone now. So I can either try and help the situation... or adjust my own thinking or behaviour... where possible, of course."
Arnyn thought back to their mission the previous year. "Last year, the King's Rangers went on a mission to the south - to a fortress beyond the crossing of the Poros. You were not with us, then, but we slept inside the fortress there, in a few rooms with multiple beds a room. Based on what you just told me, such an arrangement would be a problem for you, yes?" Arnyn hesitated, but then ventured to ask anyway. "You did sleep indoors, before?" She did not mention his wife - they would both know what she was referring to. He had just mentioned her, after all.


Kaylin

Kaylin noticed the blush, and raised her eyebrows slightly. Why would Eryn blush when talking about Unalmis and his friends? There was no need to be embarrassed about meeting people, was there? Eryn successfully distracted her, however, by referencing her father's dagger. "Oh, I haven't met the new smith yet," Kaylin mused. "I suppose that is overdue. And if it was her brother who made it, was she perchance more skilled at returning it to.. ehm... its previous condition?"

Hearing more, Kaylin grinned. "Well! If you saved them from a falling out, surely they will have instantly taken a liking to you?"

Eryn's suggestion of going for a ride on Buttercup, made Kaylin blink. "I have actually never ridden bareback," she admitted. She wasn't usually one to back away from trying something new, but... this time she did hesitate. Horses were lovely creatures, but they had a mind of their own and falling down from one was not something she would like to happen now, after finally having regained her former mobility. "Is it very difficult?"