Elendor
Dwarven Soap Opera
Ranol runs into Hildis after avoiding her and much drama breaks out.
Sort Date: no date set
Location: Erebor
Description: The noise of full trading has died down, mid-day meals are finished but customers and traders only have begun to trickle back into the hall. HIldis, a daughter of the Barazin clan is one of the early returners. She scowls at a smoking lamp set on her table of wares holding a knife in her hand ready to trim the culprit wick. The flame wavers and stops smoking as though the threat of being trimmed straightened it out. She frowns and sighs, pats the already neat braids in her beard, realigns her buckle of gold which had no need of it, twitches a fold of her green gown and suppresses a second sigh.
It's been more than a week since Ranol last saw Hildis, and he has not paid a visit to her or her home since the ill-fated meeting with Hilvar. The huskarl is making his way through the stalls and tables, a searching expression on his face. He seems to find what he's looking for, because his eyebrows suddenly lift and he begins walking purposefully towards .. oh, a merchant a few short of where Hildis stands. Ranol speaks with him for a long time, smiling cheerfully when the dwarf pulls out box that's wrapped in paper.
Hildis sees him immediately. The 'run-away-from-Ranol-shuffle' (which had been slowly replaced by the run-into-his-arms dance) makes her squirm in place. Hope blooms in her face seeing him yet she turns as though ready to leave the booth. Tears spring to her eyes further complicating her life, she dashes them away with an exasperated gesture and stands behind the table with her head down very interested in a carving she has seen nearly everyday for the last month.
Ranol speaks to the merchant at great length, laughing and nodding, and finally passing him coins in payment. The package is lifted and the huskarl begins moving on his way. He almost doesn't notice Hildis, as she has her head down, but he recognizes her at the last moment and stops. "Good day.." He says softly, the box held in his arms as he stands in front of the table.
She looks up startled though his passing her table was not unexpected. When she opens her mouth to answer him several tears escape and trickle into her red beard. She pretends as if it was common place for her to cry when greeting customers and manages a nod, a tentative smile and croaks, "Good day, huskarl."
Ranol starts as if to move forward, but catches himself and only grips the box he's holding tighter. "What's the matter, Hildis?" He asks, blue eyes glancing around to see if Hilvar is around. There's an expression of sadness on his face that's heavier than the concern he shows for her tears. Either she just heard that someone died, or more likely her father talked to her as he said he would.
With another exasperated dash at her tears she shakes her head as though nothing were the matter, shrugs, covers her mouth with her hand and becomes completely undone. She glances about her and leaves the booth and joins him in the aisle. What few other traders there are graciously ignore the two of them, one of them going so far as to whistle a cheerful tune and turn his back. The tears won't stop and to complete the already very unusual behavior she looks a question at him and lays her forehead and a hand on his shoulder.
Ranol tenses as she moves around the table to approach him. When she sinks her head against his shoulder he can't do much, as his hands are full with the somewhat large package he holds. "Hildis.. I'm sorry that I haven't come to see you. After I spoke with your father, I thought it best to wait a few days." He says softly, fighting against a strong desire to comfort her more than standing motionless.
Hildis nods into his shoulder still not able to speak, crying hard enough to leave a wet patch on his tunic. She speaks in fits between struggling to stop her tears, "My mother is terribly upset. The house has been miserable since that day. Father has been drinking more than usual and won't talk to me."
"Hildis, I'll convince him. You do not need to be so upset. He's still upset about what happened with my father, and I don't blame him for that. But, I'm working on a solution." Ranol speaks softly, in a reassuring tone. He still makes no move, his arms wrapped around the box. "But if he sees us like this, it will anger him..."
[Hildis(#23062)] "You are?" she hiccups looking up at him. "And you're right," she says moving a reluctant quarter step from his shoulder.
Once Hildis pulls away, Ranol offers her a gentle smile. "Did you think I would simply give up?" He asks, his blue eyes watching her with a fond devotion, and more than a hint of longing that perhaps wasn't there before. Deny a person something and they realize how much they might have wanted it.
Smiling tremulously at him she shakes her head. "I...I didn't know. He was so proud of having turned you away, so certain that he would make a better..." she shakes her head more. "I just, when I didn't see you, didn't hear from you or Thari thought...well, thought that since you were never sure would just leave well enough alone."
"He was proud?" Ranol asks, frowning and finding that to be disturbing. "What did he think I would do if he refused?" The huskarl draws in a breath and lets it out slowly. His brow crinkling in concern. "As for being sure.. I think we should both get to know each other more." He grows flustered, as he always does when speaking about his feelings around her, "It's just.. I haven't ever felt.. It's all very new to me. I do not like to rush into important matters."
"Nor I. But I have never cried over anyone, ever. It's new for me, too, Ranol." Standing straighter she wipes the last of her tears away, her eyes fixed on him. "I don't want want to rush so why am I crying?"
Ranol smiles again, seeming very relaxed despite the troubles they both face. "I want to respect your father's wishes, but that does not mean that I will not try to change his mind." The huskarl continues, "It may take some time, but I am working on it. Your father was worried about finances and rightly so. I will prove to him that I can handle such things to his standards and if I'm lucky he will change his mind."
The Bundazanul's face grows less sure as he speaks further, "But.. if you do not wish to wait or you meet someone else, I will understand. I cannot say how long it will take for me to accrue a large enough savings."
"My father is very stubborn and will stick to something even when it is as plain as dragon's breath that he should change. You would have to be very lucky. But know this: my mother is on your side. I would like you to meet her sometime, Ranol."
She averts her eyes and hiccups with the remnants of her tears. She fixes him with her green eyes the barest smile forming. "Ranol, I was not looking to meet someone. My thoughts were on trading. My father is...paying me back somehow for going ahead with that despite his opposition. There is no one in my mind or heart," she bites her lips and then finding her courages adds, "except you."
"My father is very stubborn and will stick to something even when it is as plain as dragon's breath that he should change. You would have to be very lucky. But know this: my mother is on your side. I would like you to meet her sometime, Ranol."
She averts her gaze and hiccups with the remnants of her tears. She fixes him with her green eyes the barest smile forming. "Ranol, I was not looking to meet someone. My thoughts were on trading. My father is...paying me back somehow for going ahead with that despite his opposition. There is no one in my mind or heart," she bites her lips and then finding her courages adds, "except you."
"Your father is trying to protect you, I'm sure. He cares about your future and well-being. I will do what I can. Please, do not be sad. It will take time, but.. I won't give up." Ranol sounds certain of himself again, having a high level of optimism and hope.
[Hildis(#23062)] "You won't give up," she repeats smiling. "You won't give up?" she repeats again her broadening smile like the sun coming out from behind a cloud. "Well, I suppose this is one way to get to know one another. Now, I know you are someone who doesn't get put back easily."
"No. I will not give up." Ranol repeats, returning her smile with a warm one of his own. "But I will not disrespect your father's decision either. Until I have his approval, I.. do not think we should spend time together." The last is spoken with reluctance.
The smile crumples, "Not spend time together. But..." she holds up a finger as if to admonish him and closes it into a fist. "Please come by to see me sometimes. I am going to talk to my mother and you are going to meet her. I will not wait for years to get to know you."
[Frarin(#31050)] Down the grand stairway from the upper levels of the mountain comes Frarin, dressed casually but taking a stained cloth to his hands, which are marked up with black and grey streaks, very likely silver polish. He only glances up as he comes along at his limping gait, not in any particular hurry but neither at the meandering pace of an idle shopper. Indeed, he looks more as if he is merely passing through the Greathall of Thrain on his way to Trader's Way through the grand steel gate at the other end of the room. But he looks up at one point and seems to catch sight of Ranol, and then Hildis, and diverts his path slightly towards them.
Coming upon them, he gives a casual greeting, a mixture of mild boredom and some weariness in his tone. "Hail, Ranol," he greets as he nears, then bows to Hildis. "And hail Hildis."
"How can your father earn respect for me if I do not respect his decision?" Ranol asks. "He said some very specific things that I plan to address-" The huskarl has a bit of an edge to his tone, but is cut off by the greeting from Frarin, and doesn't finish his thought. He turns, and offers the Barazin a cheerful smile. "Hail, cousin! The day draws near.. Are you scared?" He asks, grinning.
"Oh, Frarin!" But Hildis remembers her courtesies and bows formally and correctly. "Scared? What..." but she smiles shaking her head at Ranol. "Congratulations, Frarin." Her eyes dart a question to Ranol but she leaves it unasked.
[Frarin(#31050)] "Yes, yes, the day draws near indeed," Frarin says, nodding. His eyes flick casually from Ranol to Hildis, but if he thinks anything he certainly does not say it. "Scared? No, not scared. Impatient, I should say, perhaps, to have this waiting done with. It is the pause for a breath that is worst of all, I should think. How are you two this day?" he says, again casually looking between the two as if entirely unaware of whatever unspoken things are passing between them.
Ranol chuckles and adjusts his grip on the box he still holds. "My aunt is most displeased, so you may not wish to mention thoughts of impatience around her." He says, still grinning, then looks over at Hildis again. "They set a date for the wedding. It is not far off." He explains.
It was not her question, she dismisses it with a shrug and a smile. "I thought as much. I really congratulate you, Frarin. I met Thari some months ago and she is a lovely woman. I would love to hear your plans. And," she hesitates, "ask you for your advice when and if you have the time."
[Frarin(#31050)] "I shall be sure not to," Frarin nods, bemused. "Though they can no doubt guess the same sentiment in their own daughter." He nods gratefully to Hildis at her renewed congratulations, but frowns slightly when she seems to hesitate on something more serious, then speaks her mind. Again, with the same casualness of manner, he shrugs and nods again. "I am in no hurry, if you seek my advice, I may give it now, if you wish."
Ranol glances over at Hildis again, growing quiet now. His blue eyes search her face for a moment, and then he speaks quietly, "I can leave, if you seek privacy."
"No Ranol." Her voice is gentle asking for patience from both the dwarves. "It is about this, our situation if you don't mind me talking to Frarin about it. He may... he may be able to help."
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin's lips purse slightly and his brows lift, but it is a wary expression that he adopts as he looks to Ranol, as if unsure whether the huskarl will want any such advice. But he stays silent, waiting for either Ranol to give his permission or for Hildis to continue without it.
Ranol responds almost immediate. "I do mind." He says with a trace of heat in his voice. His thick black brows draw together. "This business is between your father and I. Frarin has his own things to worry about and I'm not especially happy that even -you- are worrying on it. If I had observed prop-.. " He cuts off as he realizes he's saying more than he wishes, and presses his lips together as he looks away to calm his feelings.
Hildis gazes at Ranol for a wordless moment, her eyes search his face trying to understand the heat behind his words. "My father was very...he is not a delicate dwarf. Frarin is Barazin and one of high standing. Perhaps my father will listen to him, Ranol. Not everything can be done alone." Her tone is soft and conciliatory in the face of Ranol's unexpected opposition.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin's lips purse even more when Ranol makes his heated reply and now the silversmith's face does take on a knowing look, the casualness fading as if inner suspicions were somehow confirmed. But it is only when Hildis makes some attempt to explain her mind to Ranol that Frarin's brows rise as if surprised and his eyes flick between the two. Then, after a moment, he says simply, "Hilvar has not given his permission." It is not a question.
Ranol closes his eyes for a moment, searching for and finding his patience. "Please Frarin, I would rather not discuss this. I already told Hildis that I am working on it." He looks at her with a frown. "There is nothing Frarin can do, nor do I wish for him to trouble himself in it..." He looks back at the silversmith, "Or.. share this with Thari."
Thari? Thari indeed. Here the named lady comes, from the Barazin archway oddly enough, walking even more quickly than usual with her hair pulled back. She is wearing a necklace set with a large ruby and she is crossing toward the Bundazanul Thingstead, walking right past her own fiance without even looking, it seems.
When she is past the trio she looks over her shoulder, narrows her eyes, and focuses, turning to come back toward them.
Perhaps Ranol does not know Hildis's stubborn look, her lips press together and her large green eyes narrow slightly. "You are right, Frarin." Softly she speaks to Ranol, "I think that I understand ...think about this. The more of my clan that is on our side, if Frarin would consider this," she nods at her clansman, "the faster this will go. Please, try to trust me in this Ranol."
Hildis's eyes widen as Thari goes past like a ship in full sail. "Thari," she calls.
[Frarin(#31050)] Again Frarin lapses into silence as Ranol repeats his insistence that the silversmith need not worry himself over the affair, but he has that keen look he sometimes takes, when he is thinking far more than he is saying, and it only sharpens with Hildis' stubborn reply. He continues his silence for a bare moment after Hildis finishes, but then his eyes flick back to Ranol. "I did neither ask you to seek audience with Balur on my behalf, cousin, but I cannot object to your having done so now." If he means to say more though, he does not get the chance, for his pause to consider his next words is interrupted by Hildis as she greets Thari from afar. Frarin turns in interest, then hails Thari with a wave.
Ranol frowns more severely when Hildis speaks to him, shaking his head. "You do not understand, because if you did you would not be trying to force this on me." He says quietly to her, then looks over quickly at Frarin when the elder dwarf speaks, "This is -not- the same thing, Frarin. Please, as my friend.. I ask you not to get involved." Everyone turns to acknowledge Thari and Ranol does the same, but it's little more than a nod. He cannot even muster a smile for her.
"Hildis!" Thari calls back as she approaches. Her smile brightens wider as Frarin waves to her. She goes to him and touches his arm as she nears.
Still smiling happily to herself, she looks around. Her smile fades as she studies Ranol. "What are you talking about?"
"Then," Hildis replies with a bite to her voice, '"you had better explain to me how my father can only think about money, consider anyone with debt (like he has) to be beneath his notice, how he can belittle someone for not being Barazin or a trader and sneer."
She nods to Thari but not happily.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin's eyes flick back to Ranol as he pleads with the silversmith not to get involved and still Frarin is quiet. He looks to Thari when she comes to his side and touches his arm and he gives her a small smile. But back to Ranol and says skeptically, with raised brows, "Is it not?" It is said quietly, however, and seems almost more rhetorical, for Frarin does not wait for an answer before turning to Thari. "How are you this day, dear Thari? Just discussing some odds and ends." He speaks casually, but there is an edge in his voice that suggests perhaps that might not wish to further discuss what is at hand. What his reasons for such a wish might be are any dwarf's guess.
Ranol listens to Hildis's quiet words with a dark scowl now, looking at her with rather obvious anger now. He speaks in a low, level tone, "Please. Do not do this to me." Then he draws away and begins walking towards the Bundazanul Thingstead without another word to any of them, obviously more than a bit angry.
Thari frowns vaguely as Hildis speaks. But then she smiles at Frarin, the large ruby flashing in her beard, and begins, "Well, I..." her voice peters out.
She watches Ranol turn away, frowning deeper now. Her hand reaches out to rest on Frarin's back in silence.
"Excuse me." The Barazin trader bows to both Frarin and Thari and then after a quick look about her takes off after Ranol holding the hem of her skirt up to stop him before he leaves the hall.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin holds out a hand suddenly. "Hildis," he says sharply, quickly as she moves to catch Ranol. "I shall consider your words." He says this very quietly and glances after Ranol, then nods as to reaffirm his statement while Hildis is leaving. And then it is only himself and Thari. He is quiet for a moment, drawing a deep, thoughtful breath before looking back to Thari. Patting her hand upon his arm, he takes a hold of it and turns in the opposite direction of Ranol and Hildis. "Come, let us take a walk." Again he lapses into silence, but he does not remain so for very long. "Yes I know," he says finally, looking sidelong at Thari. "And he will be even less pleased after this."
Thari turns away when coaxed by Frarin, spending a moment looking behind at Ranol and Hildis. "Poor lad," she says in a lower voice to her fiance. "And I won't be living with him soon. We'll have to look in on him quite a bit after, I think."
Ranol isn't moving slowly, and Hildis will have to hustle to catch up. When he hears her hurrying up behind him he stops and turns to see who is persuing. "Hildis. You left your table without anyone to watch it.." He says, frowning and looking past her to see Thari and Frarin moving away. His blue eyes go back to Hildis, waiting to see what she wants.
[Frarin(#31050)] "Thari," Frarin says, still speaking quietly as they go along, "Ranol has had some bad news. I believe he has asked Hildis' father for permission to court her, and has been refused. That is the reason for his dark mood of late." He glances over his shoulder, at about the same time as Ranol in fact, then looks back to Thari. "I believe Hildis wishes me to speak to her father. That does not sit well with Ranol, as I'm sure you're aware. But pray, do not try to speak with him on the matter, it will do no good."
"That's a lovely idea." Thari looks over her shoulder. "To have an important dwarf such as yourself speaking on Ranol's behalf? It was very intelligent of her to think of it!" She touches the back of Frarin's hand again as they walk.
"No one will touch it. The others will watch it." she glances behind her to see Thari and Frarin walking away. Her eyes are bright with anxiety and hurt something softer. "Ranol, I am sorry I offended you. He /is/ my father. You have done nothing dishonorable. Nothing. My father can be so hurtful and he meant to hurt you, to offend you, to drive you away. But I don't and yet...if we can't work together on this...then what can we work on together that is important and difficult?"
Ranol can't keep the angry scowl from his face. He listens in silence and says nothing, simply watching her and breathing heavily. He waits to see what else she has to say.
[Frarin(#31050)] "Mm," Frarin grunts, frowning now, his brow wrinkled. "But it is not what Ranol wishes. And little wonder. I was not so very keen on others pleading my case either, you will recall." He falls silent as he draws a deep breath, then after a moment shakes his head as well. "I have not say yay or nay yet. I should like to seek out Hilvar, as Ranol did your father on my behalf, but not behind Ranol's back. It is not as a friend should act. I will speak with Ranol, if he will allow it, after the wedding, I think."
"Give Hilvar and Ranol a little time to calm down and think about things, too," Thari says in her practical tone. "Bit difficult to have things cleared up with tempers high." She nods, and is looking down, but is starting to smile. "After the wedding. Which is so soon! Mother is going insane, I must tell you."
"I truly am sorry to have hurt you but please share this with me Ranol. If you can..." Hildis's face is open to him, she is neither the proud Barazin trader or a supplicant. "I will be your partner in this if you will."
[Frarin(#31050)] "I have no doubt of it," Frarin says, at last allowing a low chuckle to break his grim frown. "Formin is doing his utmost to act as a ridiculous mother fussing over her brood, the jokester. All day and night all I hear is his joking of combing my beard properly for the ceremony or making sure my clothing matches. Dear old dwarf he is, but he is a right pain sometimes. My own mother would have been more sensible."
He looks sidelong at Thari again, still chuckling as his mood lightens, and then he catches sight of the ruby about her neck. "Is that a new necklace? Very fine. That reminds me actually, I have had a gift from Lord Ovor, did you know? A fine helmet, very fine indeed, far better than the coif I am accustomed to."
Ranol draws in a sharp breath as if to speak, but holds his tongue and lets the air out of his lungs again. His gaze turns away and he looks around, noting all the dwarves moving about on their business. "I do not want to talk about this. Not right now.. not here. I'm angry and I want to finish the tasks I need to do today." He says plainly, looking back at her to watch her reaction.
"Oh, yes, a gift from Lord Ovor, too!" Thari reaches up to touch the fine ruby over her beard. "I was quite surprised. I thought he was still cross with me." She is grinning again. "I should like to see your helmet. I've thought once or twice that a helmet would do you well. Not that the chain-patterned scars about your person aren't handsome, mind."
Hildis presses her lips together and flushes. "Then go about your business, Ranol," she replies levelly. She bows to him with great formality and turns her back to him. Chin lifted she paces slowly back towards her booth.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin gives a snort, ruefully rubbing at the right side of his head, where even now the faint mottled scar of chainmail is visible along the hairline. "Yes, thank you," he says wryly, glancing at Thari with a half-grin. "Come then, it is at Formin's house. He will be pleased to have you to dinner."
Ranol nods once, not commenting further. He turns towards his clan halls again and walks on. Obviously the huskarl is more than a little bit angry about what transpired.
"Oh, mother will have my head." Thari glances once toward the Bundazanul arch, then laughs. "Let her have it. I would like to see your mother hen tonight!" She walks along beside him toward the Barazin halls.
It's been more than a week since Ranol last saw Hildis, and he has not paid a visit to her or her home since the ill-fated meeting with Hilvar. The huskarl is making his way through the stalls and tables, a searching expression on his face. He seems to find what he's looking for, because his eyebrows suddenly lift and he begins walking purposefully towards .. oh, a merchant a few short of where Hildis stands. Ranol speaks with him for a long time, smiling cheerfully when the dwarf pulls out box that's wrapped in paper.
Hildis sees him immediately. The 'run-away-from-Ranol-shuffle' (which had been slowly replaced by the run-into-his-arms dance) makes her squirm in place. Hope blooms in her face seeing him yet she turns as though ready to leave the booth. Tears spring to her eyes further complicating her life, she dashes them away with an exasperated gesture and stands behind the table with her head down very interested in a carving she has seen nearly everyday for the last month.
Ranol speaks to the merchant at great length, laughing and nodding, and finally passing him coins in payment. The package is lifted and the huskarl begins moving on his way. He almost doesn't notice Hildis, as she has her head down, but he recognizes her at the last moment and stops. "Good day.." He says softly, the box held in his arms as he stands in front of the table.
She looks up startled though his passing her table was not unexpected. When she opens her mouth to answer him several tears escape and trickle into her red beard. She pretends as if it was common place for her to cry when greeting customers and manages a nod, a tentative smile and croaks, "Good day, huskarl."
Ranol starts as if to move forward, but catches himself and only grips the box he's holding tighter. "What's the matter, Hildis?" He asks, blue eyes glancing around to see if Hilvar is around. There's an expression of sadness on his face that's heavier than the concern he shows for her tears. Either she just heard that someone died, or more likely her father talked to her as he said he would.
With another exasperated dash at her tears she shakes her head as though nothing were the matter, shrugs, covers her mouth with her hand and becomes completely undone. She glances about her and leaves the booth and joins him in the aisle. What few other traders there are graciously ignore the two of them, one of them going so far as to whistle a cheerful tune and turn his back. The tears won't stop and to complete the already very unusual behavior she looks a question at him and lays her forehead and a hand on his shoulder.
Ranol tenses as she moves around the table to approach him. When she sinks her head against his shoulder he can't do much, as his hands are full with the somewhat large package he holds. "Hildis.. I'm sorry that I haven't come to see you. After I spoke with your father, I thought it best to wait a few days." He says softly, fighting against a strong desire to comfort her more than standing motionless.
Hildis nods into his shoulder still not able to speak, crying hard enough to leave a wet patch on his tunic. She speaks in fits between struggling to stop her tears, "My mother is terribly upset. The house has been miserable since that day. Father has been drinking more than usual and won't talk to me."
"Hildis, I'll convince him. You do not need to be so upset. He's still upset about what happened with my father, and I don't blame him for that. But, I'm working on a solution." Ranol speaks softly, in a reassuring tone. He still makes no move, his arms wrapped around the box. "But if he sees us like this, it will anger him..."
[Hildis(#23062)] "You are?" she hiccups looking up at him. "And you're right," she says moving a reluctant quarter step from his shoulder.
Once Hildis pulls away, Ranol offers her a gentle smile. "Did you think I would simply give up?" He asks, his blue eyes watching her with a fond devotion, and more than a hint of longing that perhaps wasn't there before. Deny a person something and they realize how much they might have wanted it.
Smiling tremulously at him she shakes her head. "I...I didn't know. He was so proud of having turned you away, so certain that he would make a better..." she shakes her head more. "I just, when I didn't see you, didn't hear from you or Thari thought...well, thought that since you were never sure would just leave well enough alone."
"He was proud?" Ranol asks, frowning and finding that to be disturbing. "What did he think I would do if he refused?" The huskarl draws in a breath and lets it out slowly. His brow crinkling in concern. "As for being sure.. I think we should both get to know each other more." He grows flustered, as he always does when speaking about his feelings around her, "It's just.. I haven't ever felt.. It's all very new to me. I do not like to rush into important matters."
"Nor I. But I have never cried over anyone, ever. It's new for me, too, Ranol." Standing straighter she wipes the last of her tears away, her eyes fixed on him. "I don't want want to rush so why am I crying?"
Ranol smiles again, seeming very relaxed despite the troubles they both face. "I want to respect your father's wishes, but that does not mean that I will not try to change his mind." The huskarl continues, "It may take some time, but I am working on it. Your father was worried about finances and rightly so. I will prove to him that I can handle such things to his standards and if I'm lucky he will change his mind."
The Bundazanul's face grows less sure as he speaks further, "But.. if you do not wish to wait or you meet someone else, I will understand. I cannot say how long it will take for me to accrue a large enough savings."
"My father is very stubborn and will stick to something even when it is as plain as dragon's breath that he should change. You would have to be very lucky. But know this: my mother is on your side. I would like you to meet her sometime, Ranol."
She averts her eyes and hiccups with the remnants of her tears. She fixes him with her green eyes the barest smile forming. "Ranol, I was not looking to meet someone. My thoughts were on trading. My father is...paying me back somehow for going ahead with that despite his opposition. There is no one in my mind or heart," she bites her lips and then finding her courages adds, "except you."
"My father is very stubborn and will stick to something even when it is as plain as dragon's breath that he should change. You would have to be very lucky. But know this: my mother is on your side. I would like you to meet her sometime, Ranol."
She averts her gaze and hiccups with the remnants of her tears. She fixes him with her green eyes the barest smile forming. "Ranol, I was not looking to meet someone. My thoughts were on trading. My father is...paying me back somehow for going ahead with that despite his opposition. There is no one in my mind or heart," she bites her lips and then finding her courages adds, "except you."
"Your father is trying to protect you, I'm sure. He cares about your future and well-being. I will do what I can. Please, do not be sad. It will take time, but.. I won't give up." Ranol sounds certain of himself again, having a high level of optimism and hope.
[Hildis(#23062)] "You won't give up," she repeats smiling. "You won't give up?" she repeats again her broadening smile like the sun coming out from behind a cloud. "Well, I suppose this is one way to get to know one another. Now, I know you are someone who doesn't get put back easily."
"No. I will not give up." Ranol repeats, returning her smile with a warm one of his own. "But I will not disrespect your father's decision either. Until I have his approval, I.. do not think we should spend time together." The last is spoken with reluctance.
The smile crumples, "Not spend time together. But..." she holds up a finger as if to admonish him and closes it into a fist. "Please come by to see me sometimes. I am going to talk to my mother and you are going to meet her. I will not wait for years to get to know you."
[Frarin(#31050)] Down the grand stairway from the upper levels of the mountain comes Frarin, dressed casually but taking a stained cloth to his hands, which are marked up with black and grey streaks, very likely silver polish. He only glances up as he comes along at his limping gait, not in any particular hurry but neither at the meandering pace of an idle shopper. Indeed, he looks more as if he is merely passing through the Greathall of Thrain on his way to Trader's Way through the grand steel gate at the other end of the room. But he looks up at one point and seems to catch sight of Ranol, and then Hildis, and diverts his path slightly towards them.
Coming upon them, he gives a casual greeting, a mixture of mild boredom and some weariness in his tone. "Hail, Ranol," he greets as he nears, then bows to Hildis. "And hail Hildis."
"How can your father earn respect for me if I do not respect his decision?" Ranol asks. "He said some very specific things that I plan to address-" The huskarl has a bit of an edge to his tone, but is cut off by the greeting from Frarin, and doesn't finish his thought. He turns, and offers the Barazin a cheerful smile. "Hail, cousin! The day draws near.. Are you scared?" He asks, grinning.
"Oh, Frarin!" But Hildis remembers her courtesies and bows formally and correctly. "Scared? What..." but she smiles shaking her head at Ranol. "Congratulations, Frarin." Her eyes dart a question to Ranol but she leaves it unasked.
[Frarin(#31050)] "Yes, yes, the day draws near indeed," Frarin says, nodding. His eyes flick casually from Ranol to Hildis, but if he thinks anything he certainly does not say it. "Scared? No, not scared. Impatient, I should say, perhaps, to have this waiting done with. It is the pause for a breath that is worst of all, I should think. How are you two this day?" he says, again casually looking between the two as if entirely unaware of whatever unspoken things are passing between them.
Ranol chuckles and adjusts his grip on the box he still holds. "My aunt is most displeased, so you may not wish to mention thoughts of impatience around her." He says, still grinning, then looks over at Hildis again. "They set a date for the wedding. It is not far off." He explains.
It was not her question, she dismisses it with a shrug and a smile. "I thought as much. I really congratulate you, Frarin. I met Thari some months ago and she is a lovely woman. I would love to hear your plans. And," she hesitates, "ask you for your advice when and if you have the time."
[Frarin(#31050)] "I shall be sure not to," Frarin nods, bemused. "Though they can no doubt guess the same sentiment in their own daughter." He nods gratefully to Hildis at her renewed congratulations, but frowns slightly when she seems to hesitate on something more serious, then speaks her mind. Again, with the same casualness of manner, he shrugs and nods again. "I am in no hurry, if you seek my advice, I may give it now, if you wish."
Ranol glances over at Hildis again, growing quiet now. His blue eyes search her face for a moment, and then he speaks quietly, "I can leave, if you seek privacy."
"No Ranol." Her voice is gentle asking for patience from both the dwarves. "It is about this, our situation if you don't mind me talking to Frarin about it. He may... he may be able to help."
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin's lips purse slightly and his brows lift, but it is a wary expression that he adopts as he looks to Ranol, as if unsure whether the huskarl will want any such advice. But he stays silent, waiting for either Ranol to give his permission or for Hildis to continue without it.
Ranol responds almost immediate. "I do mind." He says with a trace of heat in his voice. His thick black brows draw together. "This business is between your father and I. Frarin has his own things to worry about and I'm not especially happy that even -you- are worrying on it. If I had observed prop-.. " He cuts off as he realizes he's saying more than he wishes, and presses his lips together as he looks away to calm his feelings.
Hildis gazes at Ranol for a wordless moment, her eyes search his face trying to understand the heat behind his words. "My father was very...he is not a delicate dwarf. Frarin is Barazin and one of high standing. Perhaps my father will listen to him, Ranol. Not everything can be done alone." Her tone is soft and conciliatory in the face of Ranol's unexpected opposition.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin's lips purse even more when Ranol makes his heated reply and now the silversmith's face does take on a knowing look, the casualness fading as if inner suspicions were somehow confirmed. But it is only when Hildis makes some attempt to explain her mind to Ranol that Frarin's brows rise as if surprised and his eyes flick between the two. Then, after a moment, he says simply, "Hilvar has not given his permission." It is not a question.
Ranol closes his eyes for a moment, searching for and finding his patience. "Please Frarin, I would rather not discuss this. I already told Hildis that I am working on it." He looks at her with a frown. "There is nothing Frarin can do, nor do I wish for him to trouble himself in it..." He looks back at the silversmith, "Or.. share this with Thari."
Thari? Thari indeed. Here the named lady comes, from the Barazin archway oddly enough, walking even more quickly than usual with her hair pulled back. She is wearing a necklace set with a large ruby and she is crossing toward the Bundazanul Thingstead, walking right past her own fiance without even looking, it seems.
When she is past the trio she looks over her shoulder, narrows her eyes, and focuses, turning to come back toward them.
Perhaps Ranol does not know Hildis's stubborn look, her lips press together and her large green eyes narrow slightly. "You are right, Frarin." Softly she speaks to Ranol, "I think that I understand ...think about this. The more of my clan that is on our side, if Frarin would consider this," she nods at her clansman, "the faster this will go. Please, try to trust me in this Ranol."
Hildis's eyes widen as Thari goes past like a ship in full sail. "Thari," she calls.
[Frarin(#31050)] Again Frarin lapses into silence as Ranol repeats his insistence that the silversmith need not worry himself over the affair, but he has that keen look he sometimes takes, when he is thinking far more than he is saying, and it only sharpens with Hildis' stubborn reply. He continues his silence for a bare moment after Hildis finishes, but then his eyes flick back to Ranol. "I did neither ask you to seek audience with Balur on my behalf, cousin, but I cannot object to your having done so now." If he means to say more though, he does not get the chance, for his pause to consider his next words is interrupted by Hildis as she greets Thari from afar. Frarin turns in interest, then hails Thari with a wave.
Ranol frowns more severely when Hildis speaks to him, shaking his head. "You do not understand, because if you did you would not be trying to force this on me." He says quietly to her, then looks over quickly at Frarin when the elder dwarf speaks, "This is -not- the same thing, Frarin. Please, as my friend.. I ask you not to get involved." Everyone turns to acknowledge Thari and Ranol does the same, but it's little more than a nod. He cannot even muster a smile for her.
"Hildis!" Thari calls back as she approaches. Her smile brightens wider as Frarin waves to her. She goes to him and touches his arm as she nears.
Still smiling happily to herself, she looks around. Her smile fades as she studies Ranol. "What are you talking about?"
"Then," Hildis replies with a bite to her voice, '"you had better explain to me how my father can only think about money, consider anyone with debt (like he has) to be beneath his notice, how he can belittle someone for not being Barazin or a trader and sneer."
She nods to Thari but not happily.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin's eyes flick back to Ranol as he pleads with the silversmith not to get involved and still Frarin is quiet. He looks to Thari when she comes to his side and touches his arm and he gives her a small smile. But back to Ranol and says skeptically, with raised brows, "Is it not?" It is said quietly, however, and seems almost more rhetorical, for Frarin does not wait for an answer before turning to Thari. "How are you this day, dear Thari? Just discussing some odds and ends." He speaks casually, but there is an edge in his voice that suggests perhaps that might not wish to further discuss what is at hand. What his reasons for such a wish might be are any dwarf's guess.
Ranol listens to Hildis's quiet words with a dark scowl now, looking at her with rather obvious anger now. He speaks in a low, level tone, "Please. Do not do this to me." Then he draws away and begins walking towards the Bundazanul Thingstead without another word to any of them, obviously more than a bit angry.
Thari frowns vaguely as Hildis speaks. But then she smiles at Frarin, the large ruby flashing in her beard, and begins, "Well, I..." her voice peters out.
She watches Ranol turn away, frowning deeper now. Her hand reaches out to rest on Frarin's back in silence.
"Excuse me." The Barazin trader bows to both Frarin and Thari and then after a quick look about her takes off after Ranol holding the hem of her skirt up to stop him before he leaves the hall.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin holds out a hand suddenly. "Hildis," he says sharply, quickly as she moves to catch Ranol. "I shall consider your words." He says this very quietly and glances after Ranol, then nods as to reaffirm his statement while Hildis is leaving. And then it is only himself and Thari. He is quiet for a moment, drawing a deep, thoughtful breath before looking back to Thari. Patting her hand upon his arm, he takes a hold of it and turns in the opposite direction of Ranol and Hildis. "Come, let us take a walk." Again he lapses into silence, but he does not remain so for very long. "Yes I know," he says finally, looking sidelong at Thari. "And he will be even less pleased after this."
Thari turns away when coaxed by Frarin, spending a moment looking behind at Ranol and Hildis. "Poor lad," she says in a lower voice to her fiance. "And I won't be living with him soon. We'll have to look in on him quite a bit after, I think."
Ranol isn't moving slowly, and Hildis will have to hustle to catch up. When he hears her hurrying up behind him he stops and turns to see who is persuing. "Hildis. You left your table without anyone to watch it.." He says, frowning and looking past her to see Thari and Frarin moving away. His blue eyes go back to Hildis, waiting to see what she wants.
[Frarin(#31050)] "Thari," Frarin says, still speaking quietly as they go along, "Ranol has had some bad news. I believe he has asked Hildis' father for permission to court her, and has been refused. That is the reason for his dark mood of late." He glances over his shoulder, at about the same time as Ranol in fact, then looks back to Thari. "I believe Hildis wishes me to speak to her father. That does not sit well with Ranol, as I'm sure you're aware. But pray, do not try to speak with him on the matter, it will do no good."
"That's a lovely idea." Thari looks over her shoulder. "To have an important dwarf such as yourself speaking on Ranol's behalf? It was very intelligent of her to think of it!" She touches the back of Frarin's hand again as they walk.
"No one will touch it. The others will watch it." she glances behind her to see Thari and Frarin walking away. Her eyes are bright with anxiety and hurt something softer. "Ranol, I am sorry I offended you. He /is/ my father. You have done nothing dishonorable. Nothing. My father can be so hurtful and he meant to hurt you, to offend you, to drive you away. But I don't and yet...if we can't work together on this...then what can we work on together that is important and difficult?"
Ranol can't keep the angry scowl from his face. He listens in silence and says nothing, simply watching her and breathing heavily. He waits to see what else she has to say.
[Frarin(#31050)] "Mm," Frarin grunts, frowning now, his brow wrinkled. "But it is not what Ranol wishes. And little wonder. I was not so very keen on others pleading my case either, you will recall." He falls silent as he draws a deep breath, then after a moment shakes his head as well. "I have not say yay or nay yet. I should like to seek out Hilvar, as Ranol did your father on my behalf, but not behind Ranol's back. It is not as a friend should act. I will speak with Ranol, if he will allow it, after the wedding, I think."
"Give Hilvar and Ranol a little time to calm down and think about things, too," Thari says in her practical tone. "Bit difficult to have things cleared up with tempers high." She nods, and is looking down, but is starting to smile. "After the wedding. Which is so soon! Mother is going insane, I must tell you."
"I truly am sorry to have hurt you but please share this with me Ranol. If you can..." Hildis's face is open to him, she is neither the proud Barazin trader or a supplicant. "I will be your partner in this if you will."
[Frarin(#31050)] "I have no doubt of it," Frarin says, at last allowing a low chuckle to break his grim frown. "Formin is doing his utmost to act as a ridiculous mother fussing over her brood, the jokester. All day and night all I hear is his joking of combing my beard properly for the ceremony or making sure my clothing matches. Dear old dwarf he is, but he is a right pain sometimes. My own mother would have been more sensible."
He looks sidelong at Thari again, still chuckling as his mood lightens, and then he catches sight of the ruby about her neck. "Is that a new necklace? Very fine. That reminds me actually, I have had a gift from Lord Ovor, did you know? A fine helmet, very fine indeed, far better than the coif I am accustomed to."
Ranol draws in a sharp breath as if to speak, but holds his tongue and lets the air out of his lungs again. His gaze turns away and he looks around, noting all the dwarves moving about on their business. "I do not want to talk about this. Not right now.. not here. I'm angry and I want to finish the tasks I need to do today." He says plainly, looking back at her to watch her reaction.
"Oh, yes, a gift from Lord Ovor, too!" Thari reaches up to touch the fine ruby over her beard. "I was quite surprised. I thought he was still cross with me." She is grinning again. "I should like to see your helmet. I've thought once or twice that a helmet would do you well. Not that the chain-patterned scars about your person aren't handsome, mind."
Hildis presses her lips together and flushes. "Then go about your business, Ranol," she replies levelly. She bows to him with great formality and turns her back to him. Chin lifted she paces slowly back towards her booth.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin gives a snort, ruefully rubbing at the right side of his head, where even now the faint mottled scar of chainmail is visible along the hairline. "Yes, thank you," he says wryly, glancing at Thari with a half-grin. "Come then, it is at Formin's house. He will be pleased to have you to dinner."
Ranol nods once, not commenting further. He turns towards his clan halls again and walks on. Obviously the huskarl is more than a little bit angry about what transpired.
"Oh, mother will have my head." Thari glances once toward the Bundazanul arch, then laughs. "Let her have it. I would like to see your mother hen tonight!" She walks along beside him toward the Barazin halls.
Players: Ranol, Hildis, Thari, Frarin
Located in: Erebor
