Elendor
Hildis Visits Ranol
Hildis drops in to visit Ranol after the troll fight, and Eirdis shows up!
Sort Date: no date set
Location: Erebor
Description: Ranol still lives with his family, as so many dwarves tend to do. The home of Ranor is a modest dwelling through a tunnel off the main hall. There are many homes along the passage, and there's nothing especially remarkable about his door.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Hildis asks directions to yet another dwarf coming down the corridor and nods at his response. She heads back to where she came from and stops before a door. The white gown has been changed for quiet forest green which sets off her red beard, newly braided and rethreaded with her favorite stones of transparent green. One arm is still in a sling, black so as not to call attention to itself. She carries a basket on her good arm out of which an interesting clinking might be heard and the aroma of hot spiced bread creeps. Standing for a moment she swallows, looks down at herself and makes a false start to checking her braids but the basket impedes her. She sighs hard once and knocks on his door.
[Arkenstone(#17999)->] Erebor ZMO: Braldor has set the Erebor Poll to: Ranol's da pimp!
After a moment the door is pulled open, and Hildis will be looking upon a dwarven woman with black black hair and green eyes. Her beard is braided into a sensible fashion, but her hair is pulled back into a simple bun. She smiles warmly when she looks upon the stranger at her door and asks in a kind voice, "How can I help you, lass?"
Hildis looks into the kind face nearly nonplussed at actually finding herself here and then beyond her searching for a familiar face and back again. She nods swllowing and in a quiet voice says, "I am Hildis, daughter of Hilvor, ma'am. And one of those caught by the troll. Is the Huskarl Ranol in?"
Smoke pours from Mt. Doom as the Dark One's evil sorcery lags the game.
The smoke clears as good triumphs and the database saves.
The family resemblance between mother and son is there, but mostly in the hair and brow. He takes strongly after his father otherwise, but the lighter blonds and browns of Thari's side of the family was obliterated by the coal-black of his mother's coloring.
The woman smiles more warmly, stepping back to allow the girl in, bowing, "I am Purna, Ranol's mother. Do come in, Hildis. It's so sweet of you to visit." She presses the door closed once the Barazin is inside, then guides her through the hall to a small, unadorned but inviting living room. "Please, have a seat and I'll see if he's awake."
[Hildis(#23062)]
The trader bows formally before crossing the threshold and straightens to examine Ranol's mother's face. A small warm smile warms some of the stiffness from her expression as she examines the similarities and differences between the Huskarl and his mother.
Anxiously she replies, "Oh, I do not want to disturb him and can leave these things for him and the family. He was much worse hurt defending us than practically any of us."
Hildis strikes warm from: a small warm smile warms...
Purna gives Hildis another kind smile, and there's another strong similarity between mother and son in the gesture. "Lass, I will go and see, don't even fret on it. You're kind in coming to see him, and he would be upset if he didn't get a chance to say hello." The woman slips out of the room, skirts rustling.
The room itself reflects their modest lifestyle. The decor shows a few wood carvings and some colorful rugs. The upholstry on the chairs and couch is worn, but clean. There's a small fireplace with a cheery flame crackling in it, a sweet smoky aroma drifting off the burning wood.
It's a few minutes before Purna returns, but she's smiling broadly. "He's going to come see you, Hildis. I told him I would bring you to his room but.. " She shakes her head in that tolerant, motherly fashion, "I'm sure you know how stubborn men can be. Would you like anything to drink?"
[Hildis(#23062)]
Hildis goes toward the fire and remains standing despite the invitation, a more relaxed expression on her face as she stares into it.
She turns as Purna enters, her skirt belling out from the wide belt cinching it to her compact form. "I...I, yes, thank you." She holds the basket out saying, "And you are welcome to use the ale or herbal teas I have brought. And the bread, if you like. I don't know if Ranol likes this kind, a speicality of my house."
Purna's smile nearly touches her eyes and she moves forward to take the basket. "That's very generous of you, Hildis. I'll prepare something up for the both of you." The woman gestures towards the chairs again, but doesn't linger, disappearing into the hall and off to the kitchen.
It's a few more minutes before the huskarl makes his appearance. He makes his way into the room slowly, moving gingerly to avoid aggravating painful cracked ribs. Ranol is unarmed for once, wearing only breaches and a loose-fitting cream-colored shirt. His left arm is in a sling as well, and in a cast. It will be some time before those bones knit. There's the bulk of more banadages displacing the light shirt, but the huskarl doesn't look like he'll be falling over dead today.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Relief makes her sigh slightly at Purna's departure. Ranol's entry nonplusses her. He seems so vulnerable to her without his mail, helmet and weapons. she looks away and her feet nearly shuffle in the "run away" dance but instead she goes to him. Standing quite close she lays a very light finger on his left arm, a mirror to her right shoulder. "We will have to work together to get things done," she says with the brin of humor in her green eyes as she looks at him with concern.
"How fare you?"
Ranol grins, nodding slightly. "Aye.. Perhaps." There's a very subdued manner about him, his usual energy and active lifestyle dramatically reined in. "You are looking better than I feared, Hildis. I was not able to check on you during the fight." He says after a quickl study of her shoulder.
[Hildis(#23062)] She shrugs and regrets it immediately, shaking her head in denial at her own near gasp, "No, really I am better. We were better. And because of you. If you had not occupied the troll, Ovor told me, then I believe we would have been breakfast, lunch and dinner...hmmm, several days dinner," she grins suddenly looking at the still strong form of the huskarl.
More seriously she adds with a bow of her head, "Thank you, huskarl for saving us."
[Hildis(#23062)] She shrugs and regrets it immediately, shaking her head in denial at her own near gasp, "No, really I am better. We were better. And because of you. If you had not occupied the troll, one of the guards told me, then I believe we would have been breakfast, lunch and dinner...hmmm, several days dinner," she grins suddenly looking at the still strong form of the huskarl.
More seriously she adds with a bow of her head, "Thank you, huskarl for saving us."
Ranol colors faintly in embarassment, lifting his right hand to run it through his short hair. "Well... others were fighting as well. And I didn't come out so well compared to the troll. I'm lucky to be alive." He moves now, slowly crossing the room to a chair, but doesn't sit down. Instead he only rests his hand on the back for support. "I guess I can't help you with your training for a while." He says, smirking.
[Hildis(#23062)] "I am so glad you are alive," she says in nearly a whisper and flushes red from the line of her beard to her eyes. "No, no training for a while," she adds to cover her confusion, "Mahall knows I need it."
Eirdis comes to Ranol's door and knocks gently, her healer's satchel across one shoulder and resting on her hip. A worried expression is currently on her face, her clear, deep emerald eyes looking exhausted, as does the rest of the khazad's demeanor. She's been working flat-out, trying to help Thari and tracking Ranol down, to assess his injuries at the very least.
Ranol watches her carefully for a moment, the silence extending longer than he means. "Oh.. well, yes. So am I." He says with another grin, and looks like he might have laughed but doesn't. "And training only takes you so far against a troll.. you were very courageous, you should be proud." The knock at the door pulls his attention, and he look in the direction of the hallway with a creased brow. Before he has a chance to decide whether to answer it, his mother's voice calls that she'll see to it.
The woman moves by with only a curious glance in at the two, and then she continues on to the front door and pulls it open to look out at Eirdis. "Hello, lass! Can I help you?" The woman has thick black hair and bright green eyes, and is smiling broadly in a friendly manner.
[Hildis(#23062)] A knock and voices at the door make Hildis look away from him with reluctance. She shakes her head in denial to herself and looks down with a frown only to look up when she recognizes the healer's voice.
Eirdis bows deeply at the waist to whom she assumes is Ranol's mother, smiling warmly. "Eirdis, apprentice healer and Daughter of Jarl of Mazarbul, at your service and you family's, Madam. I came to inquire of Ranol's health, with regards to the battle he was in with the troll? I don't know if I can help at all, but, if it's alright with him, I'd like to try."
Ranol gives his mother a tolerant smile when she looks in, but his attention quickly returns to Hildis. "She means well, and she loves-" He cuts off when he recognizes the voice as well, and the smile fades. "What is Eirdis doing here?" He asks softly, not expecting an answer.
At the door, Purna's green eyes wide in surprise. She smiles broadly, "Well met, Eirdis. I'm Ranol's mother, Purna. He's in the living room with another friend of his, do come in." She gestures the healer in and closes the door after her. "It's kind of you to come by and check on him. I had no idea my son had so many friends.." Eirdis is shown down the hall and into the living room.
[Hildis(#23062)] Hildis smoothes her skirts and her expression when Eirdis is shown into the room, "Healer Eirdis," she murmurs and bows when she appears and then glances at Ranol to watch his reaction.
Eirdis smiles to Purna and gives another bow, then bows to Ranol and Hildis, her lips quirking in a quick grin. "Apprentice Healer, actually. I do hope I'm not interrupting you both or infringing on your privacy, Huskarl, but I came to inquire as to how you are doing since the battle with the troll."
Ranol greets Eirdis with a polite smile. He does not bow, but does incline his head respectfully. He's still standing with his hand on the back of the chair, and his gaze frequently shifts between the two women. "I'm well. Our clan healers patched me up, and I'm not allowed to fight any more battles for at least a few days. It's nice of you to check on me, Eirdis." He pauses, then adds, "You have both met, right?"
Purna lingers in the doorway, watching with rapt curiosity for a long moment, a proud, motherly grin on her face. Then she hears the kettle whistling and dashes off to the kitchen.
[Hildis(#23062)] "We have," acknowledging Eirdis with a nod of her head.
"She very kindly came to me with a draught for pain and recommendations for compresses. Both have been of great help. My mother was glad for it. So," spreads her one good hand and smiles gently, "I am up and about, nearly ready to begin to exercise this shoulder and thanks to you."
[Eirdis(#23386)] "Indeed we have, Huskarl.." She smiles to the other woman, shaking her head. "It was nothing anyone with a basic knowledge of herbs and medicaments could have done, Hildis. Also, there's no need to thank me, I was simply doing my duty." She looks to Ranol, her expression becoming more grim and slightly saddened. "Do you know if Thari has been seen to, yet? And you, Ranol, how are you feeling?"
Ranol actually seems to relax again at Hildis's words, smiling more easily. He listens quietly, shifting his weight carefully to his other foot. The huskarl is wearing simple pants and loose-fitting cream shirt. His left arm is in a cast and sling, and beneath his shirt are the bulges of more, unseen bandages. He took a hefty beating from the troll, but doesn't seem nearly so grave as he has from past injuries. "I am okay, Eirdis. Thank you for asking. I do not know of Thari, but I'm quite sure that she's seen someone."
[Hildis(#23062)] "We were lucky. Mahall, we were lucky," she says, eyes downcast as though remembering. "Thari was hurt but I heard word, trustworthy or not, I do not know, that she is well. But we were also fortunate to have the Huskarl's arm," she glances at him with a proud smile.
"My first trip out. My first! And we meet a troll and now my father is making noises about keeping me in to run the business from here while he goes out. I won't have it," she says looking at them both.
Eirdis frowns slightly at Hildis' father potentially keeping her inside. "If you want another woman for support, one who's been to Bree and back, just tell me. We'll set your father right my lass, don't worry." She grins, shrugging. "Although I wasn't totally immune.. Food poisoning, a broken nose and a few fractures, but nothing too major."
Purna returns carrying a laden tray. There are cups of steaming tea, small baked cakes, and some of the fresh bread that Hildis brought. Ranol lifts his hand as if to offer aid, but his mother quickly shakes her head and glares, stalling the movement in the huskarl. "Here you are, dears! Help yourself and don't be shy." She sets the snacks down, gesturing insistantly for the women to indulge while she carries one of the cups to her son. She takes a moment to fix his sloppy shirt, then pats him on the cheek and leaves the room.
Ranol suffers the fussings of his mother in good-humor, giving the other two an apologetic glance as he sips the drink. He nods at Eirdis's words, but doesn't entirely agree, "Your father may have a point. It's very dangerous. I wasn't exaggerating."
[Hildis(#23062)] "Thank you for your hospitality," she watches his mother fuss over him with approval and takes a cup of tea for herself.
"Aye, nothing too major," she says shaking her head in disbelief at Eirdis and shooting a frown at Ranol. "The support is welcome though you will really not need to talk to him and if by chance, you were to meet him. Well. Don't mention that to him, if you don't mind. The less he knows the better though he had a donkey taken from practically out from under him on the last trip."
Eirdis smiles warmly at Ranol and his fussing mother, "Thank you everso much, Madam. You are too kind." She then waits for Hildis and Ranol to take some tea before she does so. She nods seriously to Hildis, "Only an offer, and I would never speak about such things to anyone without your expressed permission." She blinks and looks back at Ranol. "I never said it wasn't dangerous, I just meant that nobody should be allowed to force a woman to do something she doesn't want to do, or not do, in this case."
Ranol carefully reaches to set the cup down on a small table next to the chair. Then, very slowly he sits down, obviously trying to hide his pain at the movement. It's a moment before he answers Eirdis after he finally gets settled, his breaths short and painful against cracked ribs. "Her father is concerned and he should be. It's dangerous and he's been on the journeys, he knows what to expect. You were there, Eirdis. You know what we encountered." The huskarl is frowning, "It has nothing to do with forcing women to do things.." He says softly.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Frustration wrinkles her brow and she tugs at her beard but when she looks at him her expression softens. Softly, half to herself, though she searches Ranol's face once as though making a plea to him. "We are each soveriegn and each have our paths to follow. Perhaps it is an error on my part to want to follow the road and see the world that is outside. And perhaps that may cost me my life but I would wither were I to stay here. I think." She waves her hand as if to dismiss how serious she has been and sips her tea.
Ranol meets her gaze, the pain gone from his face now that he's ceased moving again. He considers quietly for a long time, a confusion in his eyes. "If you are of an age to leave on your own, your father can't stop you.. But if you only seek his approval of your travel," The huskarl stops to carefully choose his words, "I'm only saying that I can understand his feelings. I would treat my younger sister the same way." He adds, with a careful glance to Eirdis, "I think people should do what brings them happiness.. wherever that road lies."
[Hildis(#23062)] Tension leaves her face at his words and as his look of pain lessens, "I consult myself in this yet do not want any dissension in the family. I only hope my father understands or comes to understand. My mother does. Why would you wish something different for your sister than you would me...or...or Eirdis?"she adds clumsily not wishing the conversation to be so one-sided.
And, for some reason or another. Eirdis leaves.
Ranol buys time to answer this question by sipping his tea, his gaze moving distractedly to the fire. "I only meant that I can see where he's coming from.. worrying about your safety." He answers, setting the cup down and twisting a few hairs at the end of his beard. "But, personally, I wouldn't stand in the way if it were something she really wanted, regardless of how I felt."
[Hildis(#23062)] The trader gives him a satisfied nod, she even nods again as if it were a great relief to hear this from him. For once, she does not begin the "away" shuffle when he glances at her nor does she seem to notice this.
"Better when there is agreement between two people or...or... a family for that matter," she reddens and stares into the fire.
Ranol sits motionless, his blue eyes watching her closely, as if weighing something. Finally, when he realizes he's letting the conversation die, "You should talk to Thari about this. You two have a lot in common.. And, she's very lonely these days with Frarin gone."
[Hildis(#23062)] Tilting her head at him, she smiles. "I will," she says going to one of the chairs near him and sitting with care. The sling makes her off balance and she is carrying the teacup.
"I will," she repeats. " I believe I have made tewo new friends, Ranol," she says with a slow, sly smile.
Ranol is struck to silence again, lifting his hand to rub the back of his neck. There's an uncertain expression on his face again, some inner turmoil that he's battling with. His gaze goes to the hallway for a moment before it returns to Hildis, a small smile on his face. "I have made a new friend as well. What did you think of your taste of battle?"
[Hildis(#23062)] There is a new sense of ease about her as if having made the declaration of friendship it places her on a footing that she is comfortable with. She smiles more readily.
"My first taste of battle. I understand the old tales of shield maidens now," she muses. "Were I able to hurt that troll more I think I would have liked it better than I did," she says fiercely then she hangs her head, less in shame than in thought,"I was afraid at first but when he hurt Thari and then you...I forgot, I was that angry."
Ranol grins again, nodding in understanding. "I fought with a goblin when we were staying in Beorning. I was off by myself for a ride, it was a foolish thing to do." He shakes his head, still frustrated by his own folly that day. "Anyway, the goblin ambushed me along with his foul kin. They shot my pony down as I rode him. I remember I was so furious, I challenged the orc."
Hildis's eyes gleam with battle ardor listening to him and she leans closer, "Foolish thing of that orc to do, shooting your pony. And a shame! How did the orc fare?" Concern on her face shows as she adds, "And the pony?"
"The orc fared quite well. The pony was slain." Remembered anger still touches his face at the memory, but Ranol doesn't dwell on it. He touches his hand to his left side where he will forever bear the scar. "He cut me to an inch of my life, then left me bleeding to death on the road." The huskarl smirks, "As I said, a foolish thing to do."
Hildis breathes out loudly and sits back in the chair staring into the fire as she considers his words. "To an inch of your life? Brave not foolish. But you nearly died! And the poor pony. That orc is still out there? And who found you?
Her questions rush headlong in her new relief and she looks at him and laughs, catches her shoulder and laughs again, "If only I could fight half as well as I talk!"
Ranol opens his mouth to disagree with her first opinion, but she doesn't give him a chance to answer. He laughs as well, and quickly regrets it as sharp pain stabs through his chest. His mirth is short-lived and when he has calmed his breathing again he says in a wry tone, "I don't recommend being lifted by a troll.." He thinks over her questions for a moment and goes on to answer, "The orc is still out there. His name was Grishnakh. He has no fear of the sun's light, and that's concerning. It was a Beorning woman that found me, Halla. She saved my life.. her and Thari."
"Thari saved your life. I did not know she was a healer as well as a trader. And you say a Beorning woman? I have never met one, not once."
She grins and fluffls her beard out, "You'd better not laugh anymore and I should perhaps be getting on to let you rest."
"She is. She's very skilled and kept the lot of us in one piece on the journey. The Beorning woman was.. interesting." Ranol has a small grin as he recalls Halla and her manner. "I'll be okay, you don't need to leave. There's not much for me to do.." He gestures to his broken arm as if that says it all.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Leaning back she looks at the ceiling, "I did a lot of that. Looking at the ceiling, that is. And the more I hear of your cousin, the more I like her." She leans forward again, "Do you want more tea?" she asks readying herself to rise.
"I want to visit her. You are my first on the list. I brought ale you know but your mother decided that we needed tea."
"No, thank you." Ranol answers, "My mother.. aye.. she does as she pleases. Do not try to tell -her- what to do." He says with a grin. "Thari will appreciate the visit, I am sure. Do you know where she lives? Her father is Balur.. most people know where it is." He thinks for a moment, then asks, "How did you find my home?"
[Hildis(#23062)]
" I asked," she replies glumly.
"When do you suppose they will let you out? Do you think we could visit her if we go easily and rest on the way?" she sits up straighter delighted at the prospect of another outing.
"They? .. My mother might take some convincing, but no one is forcing me to stay here." Ranol grows quiet, thinking about his condition. "I would like to see how she's doing, very much... If we went slowly, I could make it. But.. you don't need me to go with you." He says with another grin, "And she'll probably yell at me the moment she sees me."
[Hildis(#23062)]
"Who Thari? I have a feeling she yells quite a lot but I like her for it. I am much too easy going at times."
She leans forward so far her beard is almost in his lap in her eagerness for them to go and almost whispers, "But I want to go. I want to Thari and I will stay with you as you rest or ward off any would-be helpers."
Ranol still seems reluctant, but her promise of scaring off helpers does much to sway his decision. "Okay.. But I'll need to get a little bit more presentable if I'm going out." He looks down at his clothes with skepticism. Then, with a held breath he pushes himself to his feet. "It's going to be a very slow walk.." Ranol says, his words tinged with pain, but he's beginning to seem eager as well. Sitting at home is very dull.
[Hildis(#23062)]
"Good," though she frowns at him in doubt as he rises so slowly. "Are you sure?"
"Aye. It will be good to pay my cousin a visit." Ranol smiles to reassure her, then slowly leaves the room. Purna's voice drifts, a sound of protest at first, but it grows quiet again.
Before long the woman herself is heading into the room. She gives Hildis an even warmer smile and a decidedly appraising look, as if sizing her up. "You're going to visit Thari, then?" She asks as she moves to collect the tray. "I'll go fetch your basket and I'll add something from my kitchen, if you don't mind?"
[Hildis(#23062)]
"Uh," she nods in disbelief and then the trader in her helps, "why yes, we are, ma'am. But you needn't trouble yourself with adding anything to the basket. I...I will take good care of him. He saved my life," she finishes with bare faced simplicity.
Purna pauses at the door, "Oh, that's a sweet thing to say. He's a good son.. cares a great deal about those around him. I just want to send a gift along to Thari as well.. and her family." She seems to have already made up her mind because she doesn't wait around for a protest.
A few more minutes pass and the woman returns with the basket, passing it to Hildis. "I just put in some strawberry muffins that I baked.. light enough, I hope.." She frets for a moment, "I'd have Ranol carry them, but.. he shouldn't."
Hildis looks from the basket to his mother's face and to the door where Ranol has gone and grimaces. "I asked him if he thought we should go." She begins to look uneady at her own suggestion.
Patting the basket she says, "I am glad to carry them and only wish I had brought more. And yes, he seems to care a great deal about others. I admire that in someone." She looks at the door where he has gone with complete ease. "I am glad we are friends."
Ranol appears in the hallway again, looking more prepared to go out. He has his boots on, and his shirt is tucked in beneath a sturdier overshirt and belt. He's wearing his blue cloak as well, though it's hardly that chill in the mountain, at least, in the Thingstead. It's more for show to hide his injuries than anything else. The huskarl must have some practice doing things with one-hand to have managed all that.. or he had help. "Ready.."
Purna graces Hildis with an appreciative smile. "Such a sweet girl." She says again, and moves to brush past Ranol in the hallway. "Say hello to your Aunt Nari for me, please." And then the woman is gone again, leaving them to their own devices.
Hildis rises to bow to Purna but she is gone before she is able to get out of the chair. "Your mother," she says looking at the doorway she disappeared through, "your mother is not like my mother at all. Well, somewhat. I mean she lets you make your own decisions and doesn't fuss. Both my parents are fussers. She said I was sweet," she breathes a laugh at that and gets up without pulling too hard on her shoulder.
"I am not sweet," she says with a unwittingly sweet smile. "Ready?"
You say, "Aye.. well. She fussed a bit, but, I am grown and she trusts me to make my own decisions." Ranol smiles, and it grows into a grin when Hildis talks about being sweet. He chooses not to answer that, lest he fall into a trap of more questions. "I'm ready, let us be off. It may take all day to get there." He says in a good-natured, joking tone."
[Hildis(#23062)]
Hildis asks directions to yet another dwarf coming down the corridor and nods at his response. She heads back to where she came from and stops before a door. The white gown has been changed for quiet forest green which sets off her red beard, newly braided and rethreaded with her favorite stones of transparent green. One arm is still in a sling, black so as not to call attention to itself. She carries a basket on her good arm out of which an interesting clinking might be heard and the aroma of hot spiced bread creeps. Standing for a moment she swallows, looks down at herself and makes a false start to checking her braids but the basket impedes her. She sighs hard once and knocks on his door.
[Arkenstone(#17999)->] Erebor ZMO: Braldor has set the Erebor Poll to: Ranol's da pimp!
After a moment the door is pulled open, and Hildis will be looking upon a dwarven woman with black black hair and green eyes. Her beard is braided into a sensible fashion, but her hair is pulled back into a simple bun. She smiles warmly when she looks upon the stranger at her door and asks in a kind voice, "How can I help you, lass?"
Hildis looks into the kind face nearly nonplussed at actually finding herself here and then beyond her searching for a familiar face and back again. She nods swllowing and in a quiet voice says, "I am Hildis, daughter of Hilvor, ma'am. And one of those caught by the troll. Is the Huskarl Ranol in?"
Smoke pours from Mt. Doom as the Dark One's evil sorcery lags the game.
The smoke clears as good triumphs and the database saves.
The family resemblance between mother and son is there, but mostly in the hair and brow. He takes strongly after his father otherwise, but the lighter blonds and browns of Thari's side of the family was obliterated by the coal-black of his mother's coloring.
The woman smiles more warmly, stepping back to allow the girl in, bowing, "I am Purna, Ranol's mother. Do come in, Hildis. It's so sweet of you to visit." She presses the door closed once the Barazin is inside, then guides her through the hall to a small, unadorned but inviting living room. "Please, have a seat and I'll see if he's awake."
[Hildis(#23062)]
The trader bows formally before crossing the threshold and straightens to examine Ranol's mother's face. A small warm smile warms some of the stiffness from her expression as she examines the similarities and differences between the Huskarl and his mother.
Anxiously she replies, "Oh, I do not want to disturb him and can leave these things for him and the family. He was much worse hurt defending us than practically any of us."
Purna gives Hildis another kind smile, and there's another strong similarity between mother and son in the gesture. "Lass, I will go and see, don't even fret on it. You're kind in coming to see him, and he would be upset if he didn't get a chance to say hello." The woman slips out of the room, skirts rustling.
The room itself reflects their modest lifestyle. The decor shows a few wood carvings and some colorful rugs. The upholstry on the chairs and couch is worn, but clean. There's a small fireplace with a cheery flame crackling in it, a sweet smoky aroma drifting off the burning wood.
It's a few minutes before Purna returns, but she's smiling broadly. "He's going to come see you, Hildis. I told him I would bring you to his room but.. " She shakes her head in that tolerant, motherly fashion, "I'm sure you know how stubborn men can be. Would you like anything to drink?"
[Hildis(#23062)]
Hildis goes toward the fire and remains standing despite the invitation, a more relaxed expression on her face as she stares into it.
She turns as Purna enters, her skirt belling out from the wide belt cinching it to her compact form. "I...I, yes, thank you." She holds the basket out saying, "And you are welcome to use the ale or herbal teas I have brought. And the bread, if you like. I don't know if Ranol likes this kind, a speicality of my house."
Purna's smile nearly touches her eyes and she moves forward to take the basket. "That's very generous of you, Hildis. I'll prepare something up for the both of you." The woman gestures towards the chairs again, but doesn't linger, disappearing into the hall and off to the kitchen.
It's a few more minutes before the huskarl makes his appearance. He makes his way into the room slowly, moving gingerly to avoid aggravating painful cracked ribs. Ranol is unarmed for once, wearing only breaches and a loose-fitting cream-colored shirt. His left arm is in a sling as well, and in a cast. It will be some time before those bones knit. There's the bulk of more banadages displacing the light shirt, but the huskarl doesn't look like he'll be falling over dead today.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Relief makes her sigh slightly at Purna's departure. Ranol's entry nonplusses her. He seems so vulnerable to her without his mail, helmet and weapons. she looks away and her feet nearly shuffle in the "run away" dance but instead she goes to him. Standing quite close she lays a very light finger on his left arm, a mirror to her right shoulder. "We will have to work together to get things done," she says with the brin of humor in her green eyes as she looks at him with concern.
"How fare you?"
Ranol grins, nodding slightly. "Aye.. Perhaps." There's a very subdued manner about him, his usual energy and active lifestyle dramatically reined in. "You are looking better than I feared, Hildis. I was not able to check on you during the fight." He says after a quickl study of her shoulder.
[Hildis(#23062)] She shrugs and regrets it immediately, shaking her head in denial at her own near gasp, "No, really I am better. We were better. And because of you. If you had not occupied the troll, Ovor told me, then I believe we would have been breakfast, lunch and dinner...hmmm, several days dinner," she grins suddenly looking at the still strong form of the huskarl.
More seriously she adds with a bow of her head, "Thank you, huskarl for saving us."
[Hildis(#23062)] She shrugs and regrets it immediately, shaking her head in denial at her own near gasp, "No, really I am better. We were better. And because of you. If you had not occupied the troll, one of the guards told me, then I believe we would have been breakfast, lunch and dinner...hmmm, several days dinner," she grins suddenly looking at the still strong form of the huskarl.
More seriously she adds with a bow of her head, "Thank you, huskarl for saving us."
Ranol colors faintly in embarassment, lifting his right hand to run it through his short hair. "Well... others were fighting as well. And I didn't come out so well compared to the troll. I'm lucky to be alive." He moves now, slowly crossing the room to a chair, but doesn't sit down. Instead he only rests his hand on the back for support. "I guess I can't help you with your training for a while." He says, smirking.
[Hildis(#23062)] "I am so glad you are alive," she says in nearly a whisper and flushes red from the line of her beard to her eyes. "No, no training for a while," she adds to cover her confusion, "Mahall knows I need it."
Eirdis comes to Ranol's door and knocks gently, her healer's satchel across one shoulder and resting on her hip. A worried expression is currently on her face, her clear, deep emerald eyes looking exhausted, as does the rest of the khazad's demeanor. She's been working flat-out, trying to help Thari and tracking Ranol down, to assess his injuries at the very least.
Ranol watches her carefully for a moment, the silence extending longer than he means. "Oh.. well, yes. So am I." He says with another grin, and looks like he might have laughed but doesn't. "And training only takes you so far against a troll.. you were very courageous, you should be proud." The knock at the door pulls his attention, and he look in the direction of the hallway with a creased brow. Before he has a chance to decide whether to answer it, his mother's voice calls that she'll see to it.
The woman moves by with only a curious glance in at the two, and then she continues on to the front door and pulls it open to look out at Eirdis. "Hello, lass! Can I help you?" The woman has thick black hair and bright green eyes, and is smiling broadly in a friendly manner.
[Hildis(#23062)] A knock and voices at the door make Hildis look away from him with reluctance. She shakes her head in denial to herself and looks down with a frown only to look up when she recognizes the healer's voice.
Eirdis bows deeply at the waist to whom she assumes is Ranol's mother, smiling warmly. "Eirdis, apprentice healer and Daughter of Jarl of Mazarbul, at your service and you family's, Madam. I came to inquire of Ranol's health, with regards to the battle he was in with the troll? I don't know if I can help at all, but, if it's alright with him, I'd like to try."
Ranol gives his mother a tolerant smile when she looks in, but his attention quickly returns to Hildis. "She means well, and she loves-" He cuts off when he recognizes the voice as well, and the smile fades. "What is Eirdis doing here?" He asks softly, not expecting an answer.
At the door, Purna's green eyes wide in surprise. She smiles broadly, "Well met, Eirdis. I'm Ranol's mother, Purna. He's in the living room with another friend of his, do come in." She gestures the healer in and closes the door after her. "It's kind of you to come by and check on him. I had no idea my son had so many friends.." Eirdis is shown down the hall and into the living room.
[Hildis(#23062)] Hildis smoothes her skirts and her expression when Eirdis is shown into the room, "Healer Eirdis," she murmurs and bows when she appears and then glances at Ranol to watch his reaction.
Eirdis smiles to Purna and gives another bow, then bows to Ranol and Hildis, her lips quirking in a quick grin. "Apprentice Healer, actually. I do hope I'm not interrupting you both or infringing on your privacy, Huskarl, but I came to inquire as to how you are doing since the battle with the troll."
Ranol greets Eirdis with a polite smile. He does not bow, but does incline his head respectfully. He's still standing with his hand on the back of the chair, and his gaze frequently shifts between the two women. "I'm well. Our clan healers patched me up, and I'm not allowed to fight any more battles for at least a few days. It's nice of you to check on me, Eirdis." He pauses, then adds, "You have both met, right?"
Purna lingers in the doorway, watching with rapt curiosity for a long moment, a proud, motherly grin on her face. Then she hears the kettle whistling and dashes off to the kitchen.
[Hildis(#23062)] "We have," acknowledging Eirdis with a nod of her head.
"She very kindly came to me with a draught for pain and recommendations for compresses. Both have been of great help. My mother was glad for it. So," spreads her one good hand and smiles gently, "I am up and about, nearly ready to begin to exercise this shoulder and thanks to you."
[Eirdis(#23386)] "Indeed we have, Huskarl.." She smiles to the other woman, shaking her head. "It was nothing anyone with a basic knowledge of herbs and medicaments could have done, Hildis. Also, there's no need to thank me, I was simply doing my duty." She looks to Ranol, her expression becoming more grim and slightly saddened. "Do you know if Thari has been seen to, yet? And you, Ranol, how are you feeling?"
Ranol actually seems to relax again at Hildis's words, smiling more easily. He listens quietly, shifting his weight carefully to his other foot. The huskarl is wearing simple pants and loose-fitting cream shirt. His left arm is in a cast and sling, and beneath his shirt are the bulges of more, unseen bandages. He took a hefty beating from the troll, but doesn't seem nearly so grave as he has from past injuries. "I am okay, Eirdis. Thank you for asking. I do not know of Thari, but I'm quite sure that she's seen someone."
[Hildis(#23062)] "We were lucky. Mahall, we were lucky," she says, eyes downcast as though remembering. "Thari was hurt but I heard word, trustworthy or not, I do not know, that she is well. But we were also fortunate to have the Huskarl's arm," she glances at him with a proud smile.
"My first trip out. My first! And we meet a troll and now my father is making noises about keeping me in to run the business from here while he goes out. I won't have it," she says looking at them both.
Eirdis frowns slightly at Hildis' father potentially keeping her inside. "If you want another woman for support, one who's been to Bree and back, just tell me. We'll set your father right my lass, don't worry." She grins, shrugging. "Although I wasn't totally immune.. Food poisoning, a broken nose and a few fractures, but nothing too major."
Purna returns carrying a laden tray. There are cups of steaming tea, small baked cakes, and some of the fresh bread that Hildis brought. Ranol lifts his hand as if to offer aid, but his mother quickly shakes her head and glares, stalling the movement in the huskarl. "Here you are, dears! Help yourself and don't be shy." She sets the snacks down, gesturing insistantly for the women to indulge while she carries one of the cups to her son. She takes a moment to fix his sloppy shirt, then pats him on the cheek and leaves the room.
Ranol suffers the fussings of his mother in good-humor, giving the other two an apologetic glance as he sips the drink. He nods at Eirdis's words, but doesn't entirely agree, "Your father may have a point. It's very dangerous. I wasn't exaggerating."
[Hildis(#23062)] "Thank you for your hospitality," she watches his mother fuss over him with approval and takes a cup of tea for herself.
"Aye, nothing too major," she says shaking her head in disbelief at Eirdis and shooting a frown at Ranol. "The support is welcome though you will really not need to talk to him and if by chance, you were to meet him. Well. Don't mention that to him, if you don't mind. The less he knows the better though he had a donkey taken from practically out from under him on the last trip."
Eirdis smiles warmly at Ranol and his fussing mother, "Thank you everso much, Madam. You are too kind." She then waits for Hildis and Ranol to take some tea before she does so. She nods seriously to Hildis, "Only an offer, and I would never speak about such things to anyone without your expressed permission." She blinks and looks back at Ranol. "I never said it wasn't dangerous, I just meant that nobody should be allowed to force a woman to do something she doesn't want to do, or not do, in this case."
Ranol carefully reaches to set the cup down on a small table next to the chair. Then, very slowly he sits down, obviously trying to hide his pain at the movement. It's a moment before he answers Eirdis after he finally gets settled, his breaths short and painful against cracked ribs. "Her father is concerned and he should be. It's dangerous and he's been on the journeys, he knows what to expect. You were there, Eirdis. You know what we encountered." The huskarl is frowning, "It has nothing to do with forcing women to do things.." He says softly.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Frustration wrinkles her brow and she tugs at her beard but when she looks at him her expression softens. Softly, half to herself, though she searches Ranol's face once as though making a plea to him. "We are each soveriegn and each have our paths to follow. Perhaps it is an error on my part to want to follow the road and see the world that is outside. And perhaps that may cost me my life but I would wither were I to stay here. I think." She waves her hand as if to dismiss how serious she has been and sips her tea.
Ranol meets her gaze, the pain gone from his face now that he's ceased moving again. He considers quietly for a long time, a confusion in his eyes. "If you are of an age to leave on your own, your father can't stop you.. But if you only seek his approval of your travel," The huskarl stops to carefully choose his words, "I'm only saying that I can understand his feelings. I would treat my younger sister the same way." He adds, with a careful glance to Eirdis, "I think people should do what brings them happiness.. wherever that road lies."
[Hildis(#23062)] Tension leaves her face at his words and as his look of pain lessens, "I consult myself in this yet do not want any dissension in the family. I only hope my father understands or comes to understand. My mother does. Why would you wish something different for your sister than you would me...or...or Eirdis?"she adds clumsily not wishing the conversation to be so one-sided.
And, for some reason or another. Eirdis leaves.
Ranol buys time to answer this question by sipping his tea, his gaze moving distractedly to the fire. "I only meant that I can see where he's coming from.. worrying about your safety." He answers, setting the cup down and twisting a few hairs at the end of his beard. "But, personally, I wouldn't stand in the way if it were something she really wanted, regardless of how I felt."
[Hildis(#23062)] The trader gives him a satisfied nod, she even nods again as if it were a great relief to hear this from him. For once, she does not begin the "away" shuffle when he glances at her nor does she seem to notice this.
"Better when there is agreement between two people or...or... a family for that matter," she reddens and stares into the fire.
Ranol sits motionless, his blue eyes watching her closely, as if weighing something. Finally, when he realizes he's letting the conversation die, "You should talk to Thari about this. You two have a lot in common.. And, she's very lonely these days with Frarin gone."
[Hildis(#23062)] Tilting her head at him, she smiles. "I will," she says going to one of the chairs near him and sitting with care. The sling makes her off balance and she is carrying the teacup.
"I will," she repeats. " I believe I have made tewo new friends, Ranol," she says with a slow, sly smile.
Ranol is struck to silence again, lifting his hand to rub the back of his neck. There's an uncertain expression on his face again, some inner turmoil that he's battling with. His gaze goes to the hallway for a moment before it returns to Hildis, a small smile on his face. "I have made a new friend as well. What did you think of your taste of battle?"
[Hildis(#23062)] There is a new sense of ease about her as if having made the declaration of friendship it places her on a footing that she is comfortable with. She smiles more readily.
"My first taste of battle. I understand the old tales of shield maidens now," she muses. "Were I able to hurt that troll more I think I would have liked it better than I did," she says fiercely then she hangs her head, less in shame than in thought,"I was afraid at first but when he hurt Thari and then you...I forgot, I was that angry."
Ranol grins again, nodding in understanding. "I fought with a goblin when we were staying in Beorning. I was off by myself for a ride, it was a foolish thing to do." He shakes his head, still frustrated by his own folly that day. "Anyway, the goblin ambushed me along with his foul kin. They shot my pony down as I rode him. I remember I was so furious, I challenged the orc."
Hildis's eyes gleam with battle ardor listening to him and she leans closer, "Foolish thing of that orc to do, shooting your pony. And a shame! How did the orc fare?" Concern on her face shows as she adds, "And the pony?"
"The orc fared quite well. The pony was slain." Remembered anger still touches his face at the memory, but Ranol doesn't dwell on it. He touches his hand to his left side where he will forever bear the scar. "He cut me to an inch of my life, then left me bleeding to death on the road." The huskarl smirks, "As I said, a foolish thing to do."
Hildis breathes out loudly and sits back in the chair staring into the fire as she considers his words. "To an inch of your life? Brave not foolish. But you nearly died! And the poor pony. That orc is still out there? And who found you?
Her questions rush headlong in her new relief and she looks at him and laughs, catches her shoulder and laughs again, "If only I could fight half as well as I talk!"
Ranol opens his mouth to disagree with her first opinion, but she doesn't give him a chance to answer. He laughs as well, and quickly regrets it as sharp pain stabs through his chest. His mirth is short-lived and when he has calmed his breathing again he says in a wry tone, "I don't recommend being lifted by a troll.." He thinks over her questions for a moment and goes on to answer, "The orc is still out there. His name was Grishnakh. He has no fear of the sun's light, and that's concerning. It was a Beorning woman that found me, Halla. She saved my life.. her and Thari."
"Thari saved your life. I did not know she was a healer as well as a trader. And you say a Beorning woman? I have never met one, not once."
She grins and fluffls her beard out, "You'd better not laugh anymore and I should perhaps be getting on to let you rest."
"She is. She's very skilled and kept the lot of us in one piece on the journey. The Beorning woman was.. interesting." Ranol has a small grin as he recalls Halla and her manner. "I'll be okay, you don't need to leave. There's not much for me to do.." He gestures to his broken arm as if that says it all.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Leaning back she looks at the ceiling, "I did a lot of that. Looking at the ceiling, that is. And the more I hear of your cousin, the more I like her." She leans forward again, "Do you want more tea?" she asks readying herself to rise.
"I want to visit her. You are my first on the list. I brought ale you know but your mother decided that we needed tea."
"No, thank you." Ranol answers, "My mother.. aye.. she does as she pleases. Do not try to tell -her- what to do." He says with a grin. "Thari will appreciate the visit, I am sure. Do you know where she lives? Her father is Balur.. most people know where it is." He thinks for a moment, then asks, "How did you find my home?"
[Hildis(#23062)]
" I asked," she replies glumly.
"When do you suppose they will let you out? Do you think we could visit her if we go easily and rest on the way?" she sits up straighter delighted at the prospect of another outing.
"They? .. My mother might take some convincing, but no one is forcing me to stay here." Ranol grows quiet, thinking about his condition. "I would like to see how she's doing, very much... If we went slowly, I could make it. But.. you don't need me to go with you." He says with another grin, "And she'll probably yell at me the moment she sees me."
[Hildis(#23062)]
"Who Thari? I have a feeling she yells quite a lot but I like her for it. I am much too easy going at times."
She leans forward so far her beard is almost in his lap in her eagerness for them to go and almost whispers, "But I want to go. I want to Thari and I will stay with you as you rest or ward off any would-be helpers."
Ranol still seems reluctant, but her promise of scaring off helpers does much to sway his decision. "Okay.. But I'll need to get a little bit more presentable if I'm going out." He looks down at his clothes with skepticism. Then, with a held breath he pushes himself to his feet. "It's going to be a very slow walk.." Ranol says, his words tinged with pain, but he's beginning to seem eager as well. Sitting at home is very dull.
[Hildis(#23062)]
"Good," though she frowns at him in doubt as he rises so slowly. "Are you sure?"
"Aye. It will be good to pay my cousin a visit." Ranol smiles to reassure her, then slowly leaves the room. Purna's voice drifts, a sound of protest at first, but it grows quiet again.
Before long the woman herself is heading into the room. She gives Hildis an even warmer smile and a decidedly appraising look, as if sizing her up. "You're going to visit Thari, then?" She asks as she moves to collect the tray. "I'll go fetch your basket and I'll add something from my kitchen, if you don't mind?"
[Hildis(#23062)]
"Uh," she nods in disbelief and then the trader in her helps, "why yes, we are, ma'am. But you needn't trouble yourself with adding anything to the basket. I...I will take good care of him. He saved my life," she finishes with bare faced simplicity.
Purna pauses at the door, "Oh, that's a sweet thing to say. He's a good son.. cares a great deal about those around him. I just want to send a gift along to Thari as well.. and her family." She seems to have already made up her mind because she doesn't wait around for a protest.
A few more minutes pass and the woman returns with the basket, passing it to Hildis. "I just put in some strawberry muffins that I baked.. light enough, I hope.." She frets for a moment, "I'd have Ranol carry them, but.. he shouldn't."
Hildis looks from the basket to his mother's face and to the door where Ranol has gone and grimaces. "I asked him if he thought we should go." She begins to look uneady at her own suggestion.
Patting the basket she says, "I am glad to carry them and only wish I had brought more. And yes, he seems to care a great deal about others. I admire that in someone." She looks at the door where he has gone with complete ease. "I am glad we are friends."
Ranol appears in the hallway again, looking more prepared to go out. He has his boots on, and his shirt is tucked in beneath a sturdier overshirt and belt. He's wearing his blue cloak as well, though it's hardly that chill in the mountain, at least, in the Thingstead. It's more for show to hide his injuries than anything else. The huskarl must have some practice doing things with one-hand to have managed all that.. or he had help. "Ready.."
Purna graces Hildis with an appreciative smile. "Such a sweet girl." She says again, and moves to brush past Ranol in the hallway. "Say hello to your Aunt Nari for me, please." And then the woman is gone again, leaving them to their own devices.
Hildis rises to bow to Purna but she is gone before she is able to get out of the chair. "Your mother," she says looking at the doorway she disappeared through, "your mother is not like my mother at all. Well, somewhat. I mean she lets you make your own decisions and doesn't fuss. Both my parents are fussers. She said I was sweet," she breathes a laugh at that and gets up without pulling too hard on her shoulder.
"I am not sweet," she says with a unwittingly sweet smile. "Ready?"
You say, "Aye.. well. She fussed a bit, but, I am grown and she trusts me to make my own decisions." Ranol smiles, and it grows into a grin when Hildis talks about being sweet. He chooses not to answer that, lest he fall into a trap of more questions. "I'm ready, let us be off. It may take all day to get there." He says in a good-natured, joking tone."
Players: Ranol, Hildis, Eirdis, Purna
Located in: Erebor
