(Archive) - Boromir, the Hunk of Gondor

August 19, 2000

*Note - a blending of logs from Gweneth and Kadareth*

Bardic Hall(#8090RVnA)

As you enter the bardic hall you notice the spacious room build around a central hearth. Windows of coloured glass catch the light all around and project the light inwards in a myriad of colours. Around the hearth there\'s chairs, tables and benches. Along the east wall there is three cooking fires going with people bustling around them preparing the food for all the bards that occupy this hall. A sturdy double door on the west side of the building will undobtedly lead upstairs to the sleeping quarters and smaller offices of the bardic captain and senior teachers. Throughout the hall one can hear music, song and laughter as small groups of apprentices are learning the art from their seniors.

Contents:

Faengor

Forlong

Boromir

Lossaran

Kadareth

The Hall is alive with song and voice, men and women sitting at tables or on stools. Many fiddle with their various instraments, others practice song or story. The Hall is anything but quiet. At the end of one table, a group of people consisting of a knight or two, a few bards and a couple of Ladies of the Court laugh raucously, slamming mugs of ale down on the table and nearly falling over from their own drunkeness. Indeed, out of all of those in the room, they seem to be having the best time. Sitting next to them, Gweneth drinks and laughs with them, if perhaps slightly more subdued.

Into the hall, stopping briefly to adjust to the blast of the revelrous din that emits from the room, Lossaran strides. In typical character for the Ranger he uses the edges of the room to navigate the crowd, perferring to keep himself out of the centre of the activity. Apologizing once meekly, as he nearly is toppled by a drunken, bumbling squire, the frustrated Lossaran decides it might be best to remain still. He then scans the room from his vantage point, careful to take in just who is present in a city he is not entirely welcome in.

The slightly inebriated Private Kadareth of Minas Tirith raises his mug in merriment, spilling drink over himself. His deep, booming voice tries to keep up with a small group of musicians struggling to perform a hymn amidst the cacophony that fills the hall. He cringes then laughs crudely as a drunken fiddler misses a string, and turns his back to the \"artists\" to take in the rest of the hall in his gaze.

At the table with the raucous group of people, Lady Gweneth sits just off to the side of the Knight. She leans on his arm, her telltale glass of brandy in her hand, whispering things into his ear as he chuckles both at her words and at the rest of the table. Ale and wine spill onto the table and on the people but no one appears particularly upset. More drinks are ordered and whatever sort of celebration is going on, continues.

There is a calculating air to Lossaran\'s gaze as he flits his grey eyes from one important person in the room to another. Ultimately and perhaps inevitably, the Ranger\'s stare falls upon the Lady Chamberlain and her crew of inebrated Swan-Knights. With a tiny smile he travels the perimetre of the room, stopping once to gather himself a drink from the barkeep, and then continues to the Lady\'s table. Once there he bows to all present and makes an exaggerated dip of his torso to Gweneth, saying, \"Well met this evening, Lady Bragollach. You seem to be in high spirits!\"

Forlong, thankful for the spacious room here, enters the grand hall rather unstealthily. He stops just a few feet through the doorway as he looks about to see what the setting is.

Kadareth walks about the hall, avoiding the drunk and the merry as he paces his way towards the counter. Smiling broadly, he alternates between waving loudly at his comrades in arms sitting in the far corner of the hall, and shaking the empty mug around in his hands, yearning for a refill.

The door softly opens and in steps a hooded and cloaked figure. He steals softly over to one of the tables in the corner and watches.

Silently and serenly Faengor makes his way trough the bardic hall, his steps are dignified and gracefull as he moves, clearly marking him as one of noble birth, yet likewise the steps have strength and decision in them. A regal and pensive look resides in his eyes as he gazes at the people present and the mucisians, before moving towards an unoccupied table in the hall, away from the rucuss, where only the soft notes of the music can reach him.

Forlong is always happy to see others being drunk and merry, thusly feels compelled to join them. His attempts to do so bring him to the group of people having the best time, with a mug of ale in his hand as well.

Gweneth lifts her head from the Knights shoulder, carrying it as if it was a great weight, glancing behind her at Lossaran, \"Why... it is the mighty Ranger himself,\" she says, her speech somewhat slurred. She pokes the knight in the side which causes him to jump slightly, turn his head in surprise, laughing at her, \"What was that for m\'lady?\" She nods her head towards Lossaran, \"Meet milord, the great and mighty Lossaran of...\" she pauses, \"So, do you say you hail from Amrodath or that other place.\"

The figure in the corner continues to watch, taking no drink or food. His features are shrouded by his hood and cloak.

While at the counter, Kadareth scoffs down a whole mug of ale, then takes a jug and starts walking back to his friends in the corner. Noticing the hooded stranger but not in the least interested in unveiling him, he gives him a small berth but continues as if he didn\'t notice him.

The cloaked figure seems to stir at the gaze of Kadareth, but it is hard to tell whether or not he returns his glance.

Lossaran shakes his head and response to the Lady\'s question, correcting her, \"I hail from Ithilien lady, my duty sworn to protect you and your house from those who would wish you harm. The name Amrodath has vanished with my cousin, the former Knight-Herald.\" His words are directed to the drunken Knight at the Lady\'s side. \"So what takes you to celebrate this evening, Lady? For surely the number of glasses that lie before you are not a normal occurrence for you.\"

Forlong looks down at the dainty chairs, thinking twice about planting himself in one. Instead he decides to go with his second option, downing the mug of ale in his hand, and then grabbing a fresh mug from a passerbyer. After which, he returns his attention uninterestedly to the conversation between the lady and man before him.

Having found a rather secluded table, Faengor immediately moves to it, with the same dignified and gracefull steps of a noble, hurriedly moving himself towards the table, wishing only to enjoy the music and upon reaching it, he immediately seats himself, sinking himself in the chair, a broad and warm smile gracing his face as he relaxes and enjoys the musician\'s work.

Lossaran turns his attention briefly to the large man who has manoevered his way over to where the Ranger stands and gives him a brief nod of his head and a smile. That done he looks back to the lady and awaits her next biting remark.

Kadareth passes the stranger, then pauses. He turns around slowly, a surprised look on his face. Then, he turns the jug upside down and heaves a sigh as not a drop of ale drips from within. Again, he walks to the barkeep, too focused on his outrage to avoid the hooded stranger this time.

The Chamberlain turns her head towards the table, chuckling, \"There are not so many glasses. A few bottles perhaps, but not many glasses.\" She focuses back on Lossaran, \"As to the reason of my celebration, well,\" her intoxicated smile widens, \"It would be no fun if I told you with no respect given to the game.\" Out of the corner of her eye she catches sight of one it is hard to miss, \"Lord Forlong! Come my friend, sit either in a chair, or the table, it matter not for one of the star players on my team!\" She casts another glance at Lossaran, \"Far more useful than others...but\" she shrugs, finishing off her glass, \"Alas, it is only in good spirit right?\"

Forlong allows his jelloish belly to rumble a bit with a large chuckle as he responds to the lady,\"Ahh I have only had but one drink thus far M\'lady... I do not yet need some support to keep me up..\"

The figure in the corner finally casts back his hood. But no more does he do.

With a pensive gaze, Faengor turns to Gweneth, letting his eyes rest upon the intoxicated woman, his lips curling into a good-willing and warm smile, his eyes tingling with soft mirth as he watches Gweneth act familiar under influence of the alcohol, a soft chuckle escaping his lips.

Lossaran turns back to Forlong and makes an \'ah\' sound, ignoring the lady. \"So you are Lord Forlong. Well met!\" he exclaims. \"Your reputation proceeds you. I am Lossaran of Ithilien.\" He does not pause in his speech as he asks, \"I have heard a rumour, and perhaps it is one you can confirm, that there is a Haradrim spy in Dol Amroth\'s jailed tower. Have you heard such news?\"

Forlong smiles to the man as he responds,\"Ahh well met Lossaran of Ithilien.. I do not of course know if it is for good or for bad that my reputation has seen itself around so eagerly.\" He pauses however as he becomes a bit more serious in reply to the latter part of his question,\" As for Haradrim spies, I fear I had not heard such news, yet the barmaidens and tavernkeepers are my main source of news..\"

Slowly Faengor\'s lips curl into a pensive and curious curl as he watches Gweneth and her friends and begins to take up bits and pieces of their conversation, the news about the Haradrim spies severely interesting him. Slowly he leans forward in his chair, placing his elbows on the table as he keeps his eyes fixed on the party, bringing up his right hand to stroke his non-existant mustache and cover his lips as he lsitens to their covnersation with extreme interest.

As the stranger throws his hood back, Kadareth freezes on the spot. He glances at Boromir, then at the empty jug, then back at Boromir.

\"My lord!\" Kadareth mumbles, his surprise awakening him from the mindnumbing seas of alcohol. He bows immediately, the sudden movement nearly throwing him off balance, and supresses a small gasp as the jug knocks against his chest.

Yes, it is Boromir and he knows this man by name, \"Be at ease soldier. The hour soon draws nigh when we shall return to our own land.\" He rises slowly.

Now feeling a little looser, the way only a few ales can help a person, Forlong hears the voice call out \'My lord!\' from the other side of the room. Without looking he raises his hand in acknowledgement and mumbles,\"Yes.. yes... well met\" assuming the man was calling to him.

Yes, it is Boromir and he knows this man by name, \"Be at ease soldier. The hour soon draws nigh when we shall return to our own land.\" He rises slowly.

Now feeling a little looser, the way only a few ales can help a person, Forlong hears the voice call out \'My lord!\' from the other side of the room. Without looking he raises his hand in acknowledgement and mumbles,\"Yes.. yes... well met\" assuming the man was calling to him.

As both Lossaran and Forlong seem to be occupying themselves with \"business\" Gweneth turns back to the table and refills her snifter with Brandy. She takes a long draw off it, leaning back in her chair, her back to Lossaran once more.

Lossaran laughs at the man\'s words and smiles, \"Barmaidens and tavernkeepers are often better in gaining information than all else I would think however, if you really wish for true information ask a Bragollach, for none in Dol Amroth are more honest.\" He looks to Gweneth and calls for her attention with, \"Come lady! Have you heard that there is a Haradrim spy in the Prince\'s custody?\"

Faengor continues to gaze at Gweneth and her party with genuine and clear interest as he remains lent forward in his chair, silently listening to their conversation with pensive eyes, paying attention to every intricate detail that deals with the Haradrim spy and custody, occasionaly rubbing his non-existant mustache with his index finger, covering his lips with the palm of his hand.

\"Yes, my lord Boromir!\" Kadareth speaks as he stands back upright -- but not to suddenly. \"Are thou not joining the celebrations as our stay in Dol Amroth lasts?\" Kadareth asks, emboldened by drink. He motions his hand around to take in the hall full of people.

Gweneth laughs at the Ranger, not addressing him directly, \"To think, a drunken woman has more tact than to discuss such things concerning the security of Gondor, in public no less.\" She shakes her head and takes another sip of her brandy.

Forlong shrugs in response to Lossaran,\"Indeed I found how to make a fine deer stew from one.. yet that is probably not the information one from Ithilien would be seeking out at this hour of knight in fair Dol Amroth I would assume... \" He looks to Gweneth as well and asks in good humor,\"yes, what does Lady Bragollach have to say? \"

\"As always,\" says Boromir slowly, \"I have other business.\" His hard boots click across the floor as he approaches, \"Yet prepare to depart, and soon. There is need of our strength in Minas Tirith.\"

\"Milord?\" A shade of concern drifts across Kadareth\'s face. Quickly recovering from the surprise, he adds solemnly: \"I\'ll gather the men.\" and Faengor continues to listen, very interested too.

Boromir holds up his hand, \"Nay, not now.\"

Boromir continues, \"Soon I said, not immediately. Our men are scattered about the city. They must be gathered first.\"

Lossaran laughs at the Lady, talking to her back, \"To think, the chamberlain of mighty proud Dol Amroth, senior lady of the Bragollach\'s, drunk in a bar with common soldiers and yet still let\'s no secrets from her lips. I shall have to see the Prince and inform him that his chamberlain is indeed a woman of great skills.\" He smiles to Forlong and makes a departing bow. I shall have to get that recipe from you, my lord. Our rations in the forests are something I would not wish on anyone.\" With that he makes his way past the crowds of people, toward the door.

\"Hopefully though,\" Gweneth continues, ignoring what comments may be made by the others and taking a larger sip of her drink, \"Neither of you came here to speak of such things, otherwise I would think to have you thrown out just on principle alone. So,\" she motions towards the chairs at the table, \"Take a seat and a stab at some interesting conversation. Your family is good at that, yes, Lossaran? Stabbing?\" She turns around to look for the Ranger, but he is gone, \"Hmph, how typical,\" she sniffs.

\"What news from Minas Tirith, my lord?\" the private asks, not without the taint of apprehension clouding his voice.

Forlong laughs in return at the lady,\"You have no fear I would say... For indeed I have not come here to talk about rumors that I had not heard. If I had sought out such talk, I would have gone to seek some of your fine lasses out, for everywhere I turn there is one listening to the happenings of this fine city....\" He raises his mug to Gweneth and finishes his thought,\"No I must admit I had come for a more simpler pleasure.. just the fine taste of ale and some good music\"

\"Nothing of much concern,\" replies Boromir with a pat to the soldier\'s back. \"It is just concern that I have. The garrison needs to be strengthened. You know of it?\"

\"Well milord,\" Gweneth begins, turning her chair towards the large man, \"I cannot vouche for the Ale, for I do not drink, and of the music being good well,\" she giggles, \"I cannot say it falls under that catagory either, but it will do for this night, indeed. I never recieved a chance to thank you, Forlong, for your skill behind the fork. Will you accept a glass or two of whatever you wish to drink paid by your humble team captain?\"

No longer interested in the idle conversation Gweneth and her party are conducting, Faengor turns away from them, oncemore leaning back in his chair and relaxing from the music, closng his eyes for a brief moment.

The man-at-arms tries not to show his disconcert as Boromir pats him on the back. Kadareth is obviously not the sort of man used to be treated kindly on the ranks of the Minas Tirith city guard, so Boromir\'s friendly attitude leaves him a bit uneasy. \"Your concerns, milord? Do you think the enemy will take advantage of these our little--\" He pauses to think of a word to describe the celebrations.\"Distractions?\"

Forlong nods somewhat enthusiastically to the Lady Bragollach as he responds,\"Ahh.. yes I can never turn down a fine drink.. or three did you say? Yet it is indeed for this fine ale, that makes the music beautiful for my ears... \" he peers down into his now somewhat empty mug ,\"Actually.. I would guess the sound of a nail scraping on the cobblestone would sound good after a good dozen of these..\"

\"That is what concerns me,\" says Boromir slowly. \"In any event, be vigilant and prepared to depart. Tell me, how long have you served Denethor?\"

Gweneth purses her lips, \"Only a dozen? I think your stomache grows weak with age, Forlong. As I think a humble maid like myself have bested a dozen glasses and I probably could stand as well as you, though,\" she says, pondering her words, \"I give no guarentees.

Forlong nods in response to Gweneth,\"Perhaps you are right.. a dozen ales in five minutes does seem a tad timid.. Ok I accept your generous offer of another four ales then! Perhaps I can do better for my next five minutes.\"

\"Around two and a half years, I\'d say,\" Kadareth replies after a small pause to get his numbers straight.

Boromir nods, looking thoughtful, \"Almost three years. Well...\" His face seems to brighten, \"Who do we have here tonight?\" He glances towards the others.

Gweneth looks to her left, then to her right, \"Well, you can have your four ales as long as you can catch the serving maid. The woman moves at the speed of a fell beast.\" She resigns from searching her out, leaving the task to Forlong, \"And how is Lossarnach? I have not been there... ever I think.\"

Forlong frowns, as always the woman leaves him to have to do the brunt of the work.. \" He responds,\"Ahh beautiful as can be expected before the spring\'s blossoms... \" His answer comes somewhat distracted as it is obvious that he cares more about getting those four ales than he cares to be the Lossernach tourism department....

Kadareth is a bit puzzled at Boromir\'s question and remark, but voices none of these doubts. \"Is there anything else I can do for thee, milord?\"

Silently Faengor remains seated in his seat, pensively huddled in his own thoughts.

Boromir smiles, \"Just attend to me.\" He replies this order in a friendly fashion but says, \"Is that not your seargant thither?\"

\"Sargeant Faengor,\" Kadareth turns to look for a second or two. He nods, then adds, \"Yes, indeed milord. Should I fetch him?\"

Boromir nods, \"Aye. Bring him to me.\"

And now comes Captain Rorgan to the ancient and spacious Bardic Hall, soft footfalls masked by the jingling of the brightly shining mail under his tabbard. He moves to the side of the door and stops, observing the others in the hall as they go about their business.

Kadareth gives a short bow and moves briskly -- although a little uncertainly because of the ale inside him and nearly everybody else in the room -- towards Sargeant Faengor.

\"Sargeant Faengor, sir,\" he speaks after a quick salute. \"Our lord Boromir requests your presence.\" He nods slowly in the general direction of the shrouded man standing silent and alone in the corner of the hall.

Gweneth muses softly, \"Spring? It cannot be time for spring so soon?\" She looks at the dark amber liquid in her snifter and swirls it with her finger, \"Lossaran is an odd little man. You had not met him before, correct?\"

Silently Faengor remains seated in his chair, his gaze lowered to the edge of his table as he silently murmurs word to himself and enjoys the music that the musicians produce with half-open eyes, when suddenly his murmurings are interrupted by Kadareth.

Absent-mindedly the Young Nimothan turns his gaze to Kadareth, gazing at him with the same absent-minded eyes. \"Lord Boromir?\" he speaks with a slow tongue for a second, moving his gaze to the shrouded man slowly and when the Captain-General catches his gaze, the Young Sergeant immediately raises from his chair, nodding briskly at Kadareth. \"Very well, lead the way Man-at-Arms.\" he speaks with a deep, yet friendly tone, before preparing to follow Kadareth in his steps.

Forlong finally getting the barmaid\'s attention he calls her over to the table announcing,\"M\'lady Bragollach here has offered to buy a good five ales for myself...\" He suddenly realizes that he was in the middle of a conversation and looks back to Gweneth, dumbfoundedly nodding trying to pawn off that he had been paying attention to her question,\"Yes.. I have indeed met Lord Imrahil before...\"

Gweneth tilts her head slightly in confusion at Forlong\'s answer, \"Yes, well...yes.\" She looks over her shoulder back at Forlong and the maid, \"Could you bring another bottle of brandy as well, young lady? I fear this one shall be empty soon.\"

Another loyal guard of Minas Tirith enters the great hall, a great black cloak covering him from shoulder to mid-calf, yet his rank cables show clearly on the outside and a bright medal shines upon the black background. He steps inside the doorway quickly, his eyes skimming around the hall, his eyes falling on Rorgan only a step away from him and he quickly stands to full attention and salutes sharply, his hand hitting his armor with a dull thud and his head bowing. \"You summoned me Lord Captain?\"

Forlong nods in continuance with Gweneth\'s question,\"It is funny that you should bring him up though indeed.. for I have not seen him for a good while.. I wouldnt think a small little festival would wear the guy out as such..\"

Kadareth nods and traces his way back to Boromir, his large figure this time carving a path among the drunken crowd instead of avoiding it.

\"Milord, and Captain Rorgan, sir,\" he nods to the guard. \"Sargeant Faengor as you requested, milord.\" Kadareth steps aside to reveal the man he was sent to fetch.

Boromir waits. He again takes his place in the wide hall, sitting upon a newly burnished chair of wood. His pnsive glance runs over first to the soldier Kadareth, then to the Lady Bragollach, then to the Lord Forlong. These he does not greet - yet. At length, his eyes thrill across the stone and find his captain, Rorgan. To him he rises in greeting and says, \"Captain. Come, how goes your preparations?\"

Gweneth\'s eyes peer at Forlong for a momment, \"Yes, strange that such a small festival would.\" She turns her head back to the table, \"Though, I would guess he is in fact not warn out, but attends to matters concerning Dol Amroth and has not time to take part in many of the festivities. She catches Kadareth looking at her and squints at the group of soldiers gathered on the other side of the hall, \"How distasteful, do they know this is not a barracks? They look as if they prepare for war this very day.\"

As Kadareth takes a step to the side, Faengor steps forward, placing his clenched right hand against his heart in a dull thud, before bowing deeply to the Captain-General with the grace and dignity of a Nimothan. \"Sergeant Faengor of the Silver ship company, Lord Boromir.\" he speaks with a sober, yet respecting voice, serenity in his voice, before taking a step back.

\"Indeed I did, Sergeant...\" Rorgan begins his reply to Argamir, then nods toward the Steward\'s eldest, \"Very well, m\'lord. Good Prince Imrahil has seen fit to grant us the mounts we were short, though we shall only be able to take twenty with us upon our return. It is enough to get us started, though.\" He smiles, then, returning his attention to the sergeant, \"I believe we have discussed the doom of Sergeant Argamir, have we not, m\'lord?\"

Boromir nods to Kadareth, \"Well done.\" He then looks quietly at Faengor assessing. He does not say anything though.

Forlong looks in the direction that Gweneth refers to, also spying Kadareth before turning back to Gweneth with a laugh,\"M\'lady... all men need a good stiff drink.. whether they be a squire or a farmboy... \" As the barmaid returns with the round of drinks (For Forlong) and Gweneth\'s brandy, he pushes the brandy closer to her,\"Here have another drink yourself.. it should help you care less for whom comes or goes as long as they bring a good drink..\"

\"A drink, Forlong?\" Gweneth says, pouring herself another, \"This is not a place for drinking!\" She motions around her, \"This is a place for music and of song, not drinking yourself till you speak like an addle schoolchild.\" She raises the cup to her lips, \"There are taverns for such inebriated fancies.\"

Forlong laughs and does not let the ladies words get to him,\"M\'lady... \" He responds in a husky voice,\"It does not take drink to cause me to speak like an addle schoolchild.. I am fully capable of that myself without the ale..\"

Argamir\'s face stays still and emotionless, his body now facing Boromir as he bows low to the Lord, yet not saying anything. As he goes down, the cloak that surrounds his parts, and his armor and uniform of the Guards is revealed, though why it is hidden no reason is displayed.

Gweneth laughs, perhaps a bit louder than she would normally, glancing again towards the group of guards, \"Is that Lord Boromir with them?\" She leans forward a bit, proping her head on her arm, squinting at the son of Denethor, \"I... I think it is.\" She falls back into her chair, sighing, \"What a beautiful man, in a sort of soldier like way. It is unfortunate he is there talking of war and not here drinking with me,\" her face becomes sadden, her lower lip jutting out just barely in a slight pout.

Forlong shakes his head to Gweneth,\"No M\'lady.. indeed you are not boring me...\" He puffs out his chest a little bit though,\"Yet I do appreciate the compliments... but I fear I am spoken for!\"

\"You flatter me, Forlong, though I think I may if he were here,\" Gweneth continues making no note of miscommunication, \"I know little of military strategies. I wonder if he knows of other, less warlike things.\" She looks to Forlong, \"Do you know the man well?\"

Patiently awaiting Boromir\'s reply, Rorgan hooks his thumbs in his belt, taking another long look around the room as he mutters, \"You\'d think I wouldn\'t miss the Lord of Lossarnach the first time I looked \'round the room...\"

Forlong gets sidetracked from his drink as a physically gifted lass walks by in front of him.. only to be brought back to reality by Gweneth\'s next question..\"The man?\" Racking his brain, unsure now of whom she speaks of, he plays a safe answer,\"No can\'t say I have ever heard of him before...\"

\"It is well enough,\" replies Boromir. His eyes are dark and he spares a fleeting glance at the Woman Bragollach. His eyes glitter considering alternative endings and paradoxes. Then at length he says, \"Cost is of concern to me, and stabling.\" Then he again seems lost in thought before turning very powerful and pensive eyes upon Argamir, \"Sergeant of Arms. Dweller of the city of stone. Sword-man of Gondor. What have you to say to me?\"

\"Oh,\" Gweneth says, again pausing in thought over Forlong\'s words. She shakes her head, sips from her drink and continues, \"Do you think I should greet him tonight or perhaps wait for a time when I could walk a bit straighter? I doubt I could make much of an impression on him in my current state.\"

Forlong slams down his empty mug on the table,\"Poppycock!\" Standing up he says,\"Point out the man, I shall introduce you right now.. We go way back. him and I.. Whom is it that you should like to meat m\'lady?\"

Ordered by Boromir to stay close by, Kadareth listens attentively to talk around him.

As Boromir raises his voice and calls forth Argamir, Faengor takes a step back, providing room for the Sergeant as he solemnly places his right hand on the pommel of his sword, his pensive eyes glancing at Argamir briefly, before returning to Boromir.

Startled by Forlong\'s exuberance Gweneth\'s hand goes to her chest in surprise, \"Now milord? Are you sure?\" She looks to Boromir, \"He looks a bit busy.\"

Feeling quite good, only the way a good twenty ales can do, Forlong nods as he tugs on Gweneth\'s arm. Encouraging her to go forward with it, He responds,\"What possibly could be more important? I am sure all of these guards are talking about sword polishing techniques as it is..\"

\"The Prince offers the horses to the Tower of Guard as a token of friendship, or so I understood at the end of my audience with his highness,\" replies Rorgan with a nod. \"As for stabling, I believe that shall be a task for the men themselves. It will give them a better appreciation of their mounts, m\'lord, and in the fields, too, shall the men labour at the gathering of hay and other fodder at the end of the summer to lay it by for the winter. Wages. Equipment. A bit of grain every now and again. Indeed, m\'lord this task shall be accomplished with little outlay on the part of the Tower -- we shall do as my kinsmen in the North do in this regard.\"

Gweneth stands slowly, first a bit off balance, then a lot off balance, but she takes a deep breath in, centers herself and stands up straight, taking up her glass of brandy and finishing it off once more, \"Only if you clear me a path and introduce me again to Lord Boromir. I do not think I have the courage to do so by myself.\"

\"Very well then,\" says Boromir softly. He then pulls his cloak about him, \"The Pelennor may be well enough for that. The city of stone is too cold a housing for mighty horses. Now, Argamir, speak, why do you hold your tongue?\"

Forlong does not really register the name, in his poor little inebriated head as he starts pushing forward with his large belly, tugging Gweneth behind him,\" He starts calling out,\"Lord Boromir.. am looking for Lord Boromir...\"

Boromir turns with a smirk on his brow, \"That would be me. You have been drinking again Lord Forlong?\"

As she is drug through the crowd, Gweneth attempts to hide her face by rubing the side of her temple with her fingers while also attempting not to fall as Forlong searches out Boromir.

Kadareth is somewhat startled at the approach of Forlong and instinctively lays his hand on the hilt of the sword. Just in case.

Large, enormously large is the only way to describe this man. His wide shoulders seem dwarfed by his belly which would seem to suggest that he remained well fed. Even as jolly as his stature suggests him to be, his thick grey beard and penetrating grey eyes suggest a wisdom about him only gained through age. His gigantic body is covered with black mail as best as it could fit, with a black helm resting upon his greyed head.

Surprised Faengor turns to Lord Forlong and Lady Gweneth, his eyes twinkling with mirth and his lips curled into a deep smirk as he gazes at the couple, clenching his lips together as he tries to controll his mirth, wishing not to burst out into laughter in front of his lord.

Forlong does not even deny it, lifting up his mug to the man, finally finding him,\"Would you care for one m\'lord? Perhaps M\'lady here would be happy to treat both of us to another drink!\" He drags Gweneth in front of him without care for whatever other conversation Boromir might be having,\" Have you met M\'lady.... \" his mind suddenly goes blank as he pauses... \" Oh the name is unimportant... \" Quickly changing the subject, he points around to the others surrounding Boromir,\"Perhaps M\'lady would love to buy everyone a drink!\" He looks from Rorgan to Faengor to Kadareth and Argamir...

Argamir raises from his low bow, his deep brown eyes dull and lifeless, yet deep and thriving, ever thinking and assessing as they fall on the Lord Boromir for only a spilt second before re-adjusting to before the lord\'s feet. \"m\'Lord, what is it you would have me to say. I here my Captain and Lord Rorgan speak of my doom, I can only think that I have done something wrong in the eyes of your lordship.\"

Upon recognizing the massive man approaching as Lord Forlong, Kadareth relaxes. He smiles broadly at the lord\'s \"offer,\" but his smile wanes slightly when he looks around at Boromir, probably remembering his duty to the eldest son of the Steward.

With a nod and a grin, Rorgan acknowledges the apporach of the Lord and Lady, but his eyes barely leave Sergeant Argamir, as he asks, \"Is that all you have to say for yourself, Sergeant?\"

Boromir shakes his head and says, \"No thank you my friend.\" He then looks at the Lady and says, \"The Lady Bragollach, are you not? You have the look of your brother about you.\" Boromir smiles keenly as his rippling muscles reveal through his shirt as the Captain of Might and Beauty that he is. In later days, perhaps some might write a song called, \'The Hunk of Gondor\'? But such musings are for other days and thoughts, for now Boromir says with a twinkling eye at Gweneth, \"A moment.\"

The Captain General turns on his heels, and says, \"You have not, for now you shall get bounty. Rorgan, reveal your mind to this man and what is in store for him.\"

Announcement: Gweneth has changed the poll to: Boro=Hunk of Gondor

Argamir eyes flick to Rorgan as his head bows again, \"That is all I have to say, for my words are not of importance in the presense of such wisdom and nobility.\"

Gweneth curtsies while giggling softly to Boromir, \"The look of my brother? Oh, I suppose that is possible, but my disposition is far more pleasent.\" Then as Boromir asks for a momment she becomes quiet, looking questioningly at Forlong.

As Forlong pushes the Lady Gweneth in front of him, almost pushing her against Boromir, Faengor places a step forward to intervene, placing his hand on the pommel of his sword instinctively, a deep frown gracing his forehead. Yet as Boromir speaks, the young Nimothan takes a step back, his eyes filled with surprise, before turning to Argamir, gazing at him with silent eyes.

\"I have spoken of late of labours of carpentry and husbandry and farming, Argamir,\" the words come solemn and low from the Captain. \"These tasks I give now unto you, along with this,\" he holds out, now in his hand, three silver and black cables of rank. \"Lieutenant Argamir of the Minas Tirith Guard\'s Silver Horse Brigade.\"

Having done his good boyscout deed of the day, Forlong no longer pays much attention to the conversation, instead eyeing a tray of drinks being carried by a nearby maiden

Boromir nods and says, \"You have earned your commission with merit. May the horsemasters of Minas Tirith be reknowned.\"

\"And now for you, Faengor, I have a new responsibility as well, though with it there comes no new rank,\" says the Captain. \"You shall be transferred to the Company of the Raven to take up the duties vacated by Lieutenant Argamir.\"

Boromir nods and says, \"You have earned your commission with merit. May the horsemasters of Minas Tirith be reknowned.\"

Boromir then says slowly, \"Few men are found that can lead. Be prepared to be an example of valour and fealty within the Kingdom.\"

Argamir\'s eyes turn slowly to Rorgan and the rank cables he holds, his face now errupting with a smile as he stands straight now, to attention, maybe a little stunned. \"Thankyou m\'Lord Captain Rorgan, m\'Lord Boromir,\" bowing slightly at the mention of both names, \"I will serve to my fullest, both Gondor and Silver Horse Brigade.\"

Gweneth looks to Argamir, then to Boromir, \"A round of drink? On me?\" she questions, a bit hesitantly.

Grinning, Rorgan replies to the Lady Bragollach, \"I would drink to that, m\'lady.\"

Kadareth bows to Lady Gweneth and speaks politely, \"Milady, you are too kind, and I hope you do not take it as an insult should I refuse your amable offer.\"

Gweneth smiles at Kadareth, motioning for the serving maid to come, \"I probably will, so you should reconsider.\"

Faengor\'s lips curl into a broad smile as Argamir is given an additional rankcable, his serene eyes twinkling with pride and joy to be able to participate in this moment. Without speaking a word, keeping his lips clenched together the now single sergeant gazes at Argamir, before he finds himself being called upon by Boromir, and immediately he turns to the Captain-General, once more placing his clenched right hand on his heart in salute, as he produces a bow. \"I shall do as you wish Lord Boromir, though it will be hard to follow in the steps of Lieutenant Argamir, for I fear that I may not produce the same quality of work as him.\" He smiles warmly upon raising, before taking a step back and turning to Argamir, greeting him with the same salute that he gave to Boromir, placing his hand on his heart first, before bowing.

Boromir nods and then says, \"Now, if you will excuse me. I have other matters to attend to...\" He glances over at Gweneth, his dreamy Numenorean eyes glittering.

\"Milady, you leave me without choice. I shall take one more drink, with my lord\'s permission,\" Kadareth turns and nods at Boromir. \"But no more, for I cannot afford the luxury to drown my wits in ale tonight.\"

Forlong raises his hand to catch Boromir\'s attention,\"M\'lord.. a second before you leave.. I have to... \"

Forlong pauses for a second then finishes his thought,\"oh.. I have to go to sleep.. ..\" He shakes the cobwebs out of his head and responds to the group,\"A fair evening to all!\"

Argamir\'s smile is overwhelming it seems, he just looks at Faengor with a lost expression. He snaps out of it soon enough, his own hand punching his heart and his bow bowing slightly, returning the salute of the sargeant he has known for so long.

\"Good evening, milord,\" Kadareth mutters respectfully to the gigantic mass of a man ambling away in drunken stupor.

Gweneth smiles brilliantly at Boromir, most signs of her drunkeness gone, perhaps from some sort of rush of andrenilin. She blinks slowly at the Captain-General, catching a lock of loose hair with her fingers and slowly tucking it behind her ear, her fingers caressing the lobe and down her neck as she inquires, \"What must you attend to, milord?\"

\"I must not allow my social calender to fall off,\" replies Boromir. He smiles and says, \"I have heard much of your house, and have fought with your brother on the Marches of Osgiliath - a wild one is he - but I have yet to meet his fair sister.\"

A nod and a half-bow for each of the departing Lords does Rorgan give, then his attention returns to the remaining guardsmen with a smile, \"I shall occupy this hall for the time being, lads. If there is any further business you need to tend to with me, or if you know of any who have need of their Captain, send them hither.\"

\"And now, Lady Gweneth, has your mind been made yet?\"

Kadareth nods in acknowledgement at Rorgan, \"Yes, sir. When shall we depart to Minas Tirith?\"

\"Indeed, he is my twin, an though I could not say myself, perhaps it is a trait that lies in both of us,\" Gweneth says her hand sliding down the rest of her torso to stop at her waist to clasp her other hand, \"Though, as I said before, we are quite different in our application of our family fire,\" she pauses, not quite sure of what she said. At Rorgan\'s question, she turns her head, \"Excuse me, Rorgan? My mind been made on what?\"

\"Kadarith, isn\'t it?\" Rorgan asks, furrowing his brows. \"A goodly number of our healers are remaining for another three weeks to study the Southern herbs with Lady Ivriniel. If you wish to remain behind with me for escort duty, that will be acceptable. Otherwise, we shall have to find out for you when the Captain-General plans to depart with the remainder of the men. I believe that time will soon be upon us.\"

Argamir is silent, his response similiar to every occasion of his promotion, thinking deep and intense, though no one knows what passes through his mind. He presently looks up upon the guards around him and a smile acrosses his face for an instant, before voice leaves his lips. \"Excuse me m\'Lord Captain, but I must beg leave. It has been an... interesting and long day, sleep is in need. With your permission...,\" he performs a text-book salute again, many in one night, and looks to the other guards, a smile for each of them and a nod in departure.

Boromir nods to Rorgan and says, \"Aye, I shall not tarry in Dol Amroth much longer. There is work to be done in Anorien of a less gentle nature.\" To these words Boromir pauses and then says, \"Less gentle by far.\"

Returning the salute fully, Rorgan nods to Argamir, \"Of course, Lieutenant. Dismissed.\"

\"You are correct sir,\" Kadareth nods. \"Captain Rorgan, your proposal is tempting, but I\'m afraid I must depart with the rest of the men at our Lord Boromir\'s behest. My heart lies in Minas Tirith, you understand.\"

\"In Anorien? How sad you wish to take leave of my fair city so soon,\" Gweneth replies to Boromir, \"I am sure with all the fuss of the festival, you have not had a chance to see the more interesting and beautiful sights in Dol Amroth. Perhaps you will allow me some time with you to be your guide before you leave?\"

Boromir nods and looks slowly at Gweneth, \"So be it. Yet time is short, and I cannot tarry here, there have been late dispatches to which I must attend? Perhaps tommorrow evening?\"

\"We shall return by boat, then, when the time comes, m\'lord. I\'ve a mind to have the Silver Horse Brigade excercise with the Knights in the meantime, and there are some among our men who shall also be attending the lectures of Lady Ivriniel,\" says Rorgan with a nod to the Captain-General. \"Perhaps I will not be too late, then, for the \'festivities\'.\" His lips curl into a crooked smile.

\"Then so be it, Man at Arms Kadarith. Mine own heart lies in that same place, but I have kin among those who shall tarry here, and indeed, I myself intend to attend those self-same lectures.\"

Gweneth bows her head, \"Tomorrow would be wonderful, milord. Until then,\" she says, backing away slightly, then rising.

As for Faengor, he chose to silently move away, oncemore confining himself to some silence and peace, twas a tiring day.

Boromir nods and then turns to the others and bows, \"After my rendevous with the Lady, we shall depart. Fare thee well.\"

As Boromir takes his leave, Gweneth raises the back of her hand to her forehead to ward off a spell, \"By the Valar that man is beautiful.\" Her eyes then widen as she looks to those she holds company with currently, lowering her hand and clearing her throat, \"Now, what were you speaking of Lord Rorgan?\"

\"Ah, finally does the lady once again deign to look upon the mere mortals who are about,\" laughs Rorgan. \"I am parched, my lady, and would love to take you up on the offer so graciously made by the Lord of Lossarnach ere he departed.\" He smiles graciously, adding, \"But of course, if it was merely in jest that the offer was made, then I could find my own purse.\"

The Bardic Hall is filled with raucous sounds of music and voice, both in singing, shouting and laughing. Near the edge of the hall, a fairly out of place gathering of a few soldier and one Lady of the Court stand, chatting with one another.

Gweneth smiles at Rorgan, \"I would buy your drink for you even if it was no special occation, Rorgan. Tell me, how is your wife? She is still staying in Minas Tirith, yes?\" Gweneth questions, turning for a momment to look once more for a serving maid.

From the silence of the hour, into din and merriment, steps another Lady. ANd she stops as abruptly as she entered, caught now in the light of the sconces at the door\'s sides, like a child sneaking downstairs after bedtime.

Kadareth, who was beginning to feel drowsy with drink, opens his eyes wide as Kerowyn steps into the hall. He bows respectfully, \"Milady Kerowyn, good evening to thee.\"

\"Nay, she came for the festival, but has been tending instead to a sick aunt,\" replies Rorgan with a nod, \"though she plans to return to the North when she is done there.\" His eyes turn toward the newly entered lady, perhaps more noticable for the rarity of her golden hair. \"Aha! \'Tis Lady Kerowyn. Kadarith, find us a place to sit, and you shall join us as well.\"

The greetings of both men bring a smile to her face, and a poise to her stance that had been lost in the moment of surprise upon entering this place \"Ah, mi\'lord Rorgan and sir Kaderath, aye? It is a dilghtful surprise to see you here, at this hour.\" As she speaks, she moves quietly towards the group, eying and nodding to each in turn.

Gweneth stumbles back a bit, a break in her attempts to appear unaffected by the drink, \"Yes, a table would be nice I think. Though, I believe a bed will do me more good.\" She pauses, \"I wonder how long Boromir\'s agenda will take him,\" she smiles to the group, \"If you\'ll excuse me...\" and Gweneth walks slowly and carefully out of the bardic hall.

\"Yes, sir!\" Kadareth assents. He then turns to Lady Gweneth and bows, \"May you have a good night, milady.\" He then clears a path to a nearby table and sets four chairs around it.

\"Good night, Lady Gweneth,\" Rorgan nods toward the retureating lady.

Kerowyn inclines her head, skirt swirling oto the floor for the barest breath of a moment as she curtseys, \"Lady.\"

Kadareth turns to Kerowyn, \"Milady, would you care for a drink? I feel myself indebted, for I did not forget when your talents saved mine and my comrades\' lives two years ago in Rohan.\"

Taking a seat, Rorgan nods towards Kadareth, \"And she has served us well here in Gondor as well, since she has relocated to Minas Tirith.\" He smiles toward Kerowyn.

Kerowyn lifts a hand to forestall further vows of indebtedness, but is too slow to stall Rorgan, so merely smiles slightly, \"It is only duty, mi\'lords. And one I canot forego durig my visit, surely.\" SHe settle shefself then, in the proffered chair, smoothing down her skirts with care.

\"Duty, you say, sister-to-be,\" smiles Rorgan, \"and you sound like an old soldier who has heard it all before.\"

\"Indeed, I would, Kadarith,\" replies Rorgan. \"Though, I will certianly repay you in kind, if we shall last into a second round. Ale, if you please.\"

\"And milady, what would you be taking?\" Kadareth\'s deep blue eyes focus on Kerowyn.

Kerowyn chuckles softly, and shakes her head, though she does speak, \"WIne, if they\'veit, please.\"

The servant girl arrives at the table, barely avoiding a collision with a drunken knight. Kadareth smiles brightly and orders the drinks. A few moments later, the woman returns, pours Kerowyn a glass of red wine and then fills the guards two mugs of ale so strong its smell was noticeable from afar, even among the many odours -- alcoholic and otherwise -- that pervaded the hall.

\"The day that Dol Amroth has no wine, Lady Kerowyn, I shall join all those who say that the end is surely near,\" chuckles Rorgan from where he sits near the Rohirrim-in-exile and the Man at Arms Kadareth.

The musicians continue to play on for those who have gathered here, making merry or simply conversing quitely off to the side. It is a gay scene, or carefree to say the least, that greets all those who enter the hall this night, and along the edges of the crowd there floats the rumor that Lady Gweneth has taken a fancy to the Steward\'s eldest, having eyes only for him as he passed through the party earlier in the evening.

Kerowyn accepts the wine, peering at it moment before her somber mood is broken by laughter, \"I had forgotten.\" A lengthy sip is pulled from the wine, leaving in its wake only the calm smile once more.

Taking the mug proffered to him well in hand, the Captain leans back and smiles, visibly relaxing, \"Kadarith, you spoke of Rohan... Were you among those who fought against the plague of Wargs? Why is it that I have not seen you since, that I recall...\"

The door open to admit a young man, dressed in the livery of a Scout of Ithilien. The man, to those who know him, is Belahir, and he walks into the room with a spring in his step and a smile in his face. He flashes his rougish smile to every woman he meets, which really just makes him look like an idiot, and he delivers a sharp nod to the men among the crowd. His natural military stance is relieved and he mingles in with the small crowd, obviously enjoying the music and the feastivities. He turns round and happens to spot Rorgan and those around his table. Refusing a drink offered, he moves over towards the table. Once he arrives, he gives his charismatic grin to all those gathered and nods to them each in turn, \"Hail and good evening Captain, m\'lady Kerowyn, and I do not believe I have ever met thee sir. These two people know me, or at least we have met before. I am Belahir, son of Beleglin. May I ask your name good sir?\"

Kadareth quietly takes a sip from his mug of ale. \"Indeed I was, Captain. Those were trying times, and I fear that worse may come, soon or later,\" his eyes look slightly unfocused, as if staring into a distant vision.

His musings are then interrupted by Belahir, \"Oh, pardon me good sir, I am Private Kadareth of the Minas Tirith guard. Well met thee.\" He then returns his attention to Rorgan. \"Upon returning to Minas Tirith I was assigned by Commander Galdorim to go undercover. It was agreed that I was not to call much attention upon me for a few months. Surely you do remember the wave of murder and corruption that plagued our fair city a little over one year past?\"

\"Ah, good morrow, Belahir,\" says Rorgan with a smile. \"This man is Man at Arms Kadarith of the Minas Tirith Guard. I believe you two have bled some of the same ground, no doubt, if you know Lady Kerowyn here.\" \"Ah, yes, that is correct. You were one of our little spiders.\"

Belahir nods, \"No doubt. If I have overheard you correctly in saying that you were in the Warg Campaigns, then it is true. And the Lady Kerowyn is a master of her art, and truly an art it is.\" He takes a seat, not sparing his smile and a wink for the lady. He then turns to the conversation at hand, \"Those were trying times for Minas Tirith and her people. I was there during some of it, and I know that I feared for my younger sister to walk on the streets at times, though in truth she was in no danger.\"

Kerowyn looks up fromthe wine, having absorbed herself in it all these past minutes,and inclines her head to Belahir, \"AH sr Belahir. You do indeed flatter too much.\" One golden brow reeps upwards at the mentions of such things as murder an dvillainy, \"In the very streets of Minas Tirith?\" she asks aloud, shock permeating her voice.

Nodding, Rorgan falls silent for a long moment, looking at the floor, then he answers Kerowyn in soft tones, \"Aye. \'Twas one of the worst moments in the history of the Guard.\"

Still speaking softly, the Captain continues, \"For those who did it wore our uniforms.\"

Kadareth heaves a sigh, \"Aye, it saddened me to have mingle with all the manners of evil that festered on the streets and in the heart of the very guard of my beloved city. But it\'s naught but a small sacrifice for my Steward and my country.\"

\"But that is behind us now. A reminder that we may never slack in our vigilance not only against the East, but against the influence of the Nameless One in other places, as well,\" Rorgan intones. \"A lesson that nearly cost us Commander Galdorim\'s own life, poisoned within the Healing Houses themselves. And many others. Thankfully, many of us survived to tell the tales for those who did not.\"

The wine, which had been lifted for a final sip to the woman\' smouth spills, splashing the front of her gown with a crimson darkening stain. \"Men of the guard? \" She blinks, trying hastily and ineffectually to wipe the wine from her bodice with one hand, \"Poisoned the commander?\" For once it seems, she is able to recall thean\'s true title.

Belahir shakes his head, \"I know that my brothers, all in the Guard, took it very hard. They were angrier than I had ever seen, and we come from a family of tempers. I can understand. If one of my fellow scouts betrayed us like that in such a way, by the valar, he would not last long. But it would sadden my heart.\" He sighs once more but then smiles and seems to shake it off. \"Heres to the vigilance of those who captured the betrayers.\"

Kadareth\'s eyes again take on a dreamy glint. \"To stand so close to such crime, and yet so helpless to fight it. I had to restrain myself, lest our mask be broken and the city further imperiled.\" He then smiles with satisfaction, \"But justice prevailed and Minas Tirith emerged in triumph, prepared to face the evil blossoming all around us. For that which doesn\'t kill us only makes us stronger, wouldn\'t you agree, Captain, milady?\"

Kerowyn looks up from her task and ahhs, \"Indeed.\"

\"I\'ll drink to that,\" says the Scout and he takes his raised glass to his lips and takes a small drink.

Then Rorgan throws back his head and laughs long and loud, and finally, when the laughing fit passes, he lookes to Kadareth, \"If that which does not kill us makes us stronger, lad, then I should be the strongest man in Middle Earth!\" He continues chuckling, shaking his head.

FInally gaining ht epresence of mind to do so, Kerowyn produces a kerheif from her stahel, mopping up some of the wine more carefully. \"Perhaps in ersolve alone,\" she frowns slightl attempting to maintain some level of deorum, and sighs, \"FOr I no kow man one wounded the stronger for it i health.\"

Kadareth raises his mug, but says nothing and merely chuckles after taking another sip of ale.

\"What of your fair Rohan, milady?\" Kadareth suddenly turns to Kerowyn. \"When did you decide to trade the rolling plains of your land for the stark brick of Minas Tirith? I heard not of your arrival, or I would have paid you a visit to welcome and present you with my everlasting gratitude.\"

In an obvious ploy to change the subject to matters more jovial, Rorgan asks of Kerowyn, \"How have the talks between you and Lady Ivriniel been going, milady? I seem to have found myself much to do here whilst I wait to escort you back to Minas Tirith, but I am beginning to long for home, myself.\"

Kerowyn sighs softly, \"AH, it began as merely a short visit, my Lord wished to see his brother.\" She smiles slightly and then turns to Rorgan, \"Ah, I wish that there were time for us to speak, for then perhaps we would be home already! But alas I fear the Lady has many pressing court matters to attend to, and they keep us apart.\"

\"Indeed, it is getting late. Or rather, early,\" he says after noticing a hint of daybreak. He gets up, then bows at the others, \"With your permission, the company has a very long day ahead tomorrow and the men must be gathered and be ready should his lordship, Boromir, wish to depart to Minas Tirith.\"

\"The Lady has been a most exceptional hostess to all the hosts that have descended upon her city. Now that the tournament has ended, perhaps she will be able to find the time you both seek,\" says Rorgan with a widening grin. \"And speaking of my brother, he seems to have made himself scarce of late, and I wish to pass to him the offer of the White Tower.\"

\"Of course, Kadarith. Thank you for joining us,\" the Captain adds a moment later.

Belahir turns, having been absorbed in the music and nods to Kadereth, \"It was a pleasure meeting another man of Minas Tirith, good sir. I hope we shall see each other again in the future. Good luck to you.\"

Kerowyn half rises to incline her head, \"sir Kaderath. Fare well.Untill we shall meet again in Minas Tiith.\" Once she has settle dherself again, she raises a brow, \"Thw white tower?\"

\"Milady, I expect we should meet again in the streets of Minas Tirith. I shall be looking forward to it. Sir Belahir, it has been a pleasure meeting you.\" Kadareth then knocks a brisk salute. \"Captain Rorcan, good luck during your stay. Let that which doesn\'t kill you make you even stronger.\" He winks, then adds, \"Or luckier.\"

Kadareth then leaves the hall, straightening his liquor-stained uniform and sheltering his vision from the morning sunlight.

\"Well, insomuch as I am allowed to speak for the White Tower,\" grins Rorgan. \"There is to be a unit of light horse formed and stationed near Minas Tirith. I wish him to assist in their training, if he is willing.\"

Kerowyn raises a brow. \"Indeed? I ha dot thorught your kin went in for the ROhirric style, but rathered favored the grand chargers of your knights here, if anything at all.\" Her surprise is so great that the hand which ad been mopping at the winestain ceases of its own accord.

\"Aye, but keep in mind who shall be their Captain, milady,\" Rorgan replies. \"I care not for what the other Captains think of my men, so long as they are effective in battle. Fiordor can give us that.\"

Kerowyn smile s slightly, \"YOu wil forgive y surprise I trust. I a sure he,\" she frowns slightly, \"will be quite pleased for the opportunity.\" she sighs softly, moving the empty glass a bit further away, \"THough I am afraid I an give you no hint to his whereabots.\"

Belahir shakes his head with a smile, \"We Scouts do not generaly find any need for horses, besides for travel, and even rarely that. I prefer my own two feet, to the four hoofs of any beast. No offense,\" he says with a nod to Kerowyn, \"but even over the fair hoofs of the Rohiric horses.\"

\"Indeed,\" snorts Rorgan, \"I would have thought that you would have put such notions as not telling you where he be far out of his head.\"