[Mithadan]

Mithadan, Piosenniel and Bird climbed through the circles of the city. After a brief lunch at an inviting inn (roasted meats, fresh bread and vegetables!), they began making discrete inquiries of various guards and officials that they came across as they walked along the streets.

Afternoon found them waiting in the offices of the King's Treasurer, a handsome but officious gentleman named Ardamir. They waited nearly an hour, but were eventually escorted into his cluttered office. Ardamir ignored them for a moment as he perused a scroll, then looked up and spoke. "Yes? Yes? What is it? What to you require of me?"

Mithadan smiled and introduced himself as a trader and captain of a vessel that plied the seas seeking profit. Piosenniel he introduced as an Elf from Lindon and Bird as a representative from a town in the North. After exchanging some half-hearted pleasantries, Ardamir again asked what their errand was.

"We seek the assistance of the King," replied Mithadan. "In a matter of some importance and urgency and are prepared to pay handsomely for such assistance." At this Bird choked, and when Ardamir turned to her with a frown, she feigned a cough and smiled. Mithadan continued. "Far to the north, a great storm struck the coastlands and a town was inundated by the waves. Its people were rescued by ships out of the Grey Havens; a task with which I assisted. But its people are now homeless and ruined. I seek the King's assistance in relocating them to the lands to the north of Rauros on the Anduin where it is said that there is room for many to settle."

Ardamir snorted. "Why should the unfortunate loss of a town to the north concern the King of Gondor? And if these people are homeless and ruined, how shall they pay for the assistance which they seek?"

"The benevolence and power of King Ciryandil is legendary throughout the Northlands," replied Mithadan. "And as for payment, I will bear the cost out of pity and charity."

Ardamir looked askance at Mithadan and his companions as if weighing the worth of their words and the clothing they wore and finding them wanting. He fingered a fine gold chain which he wore about his throat and asked simply, "With what?"

Mithadan smiled and drew forth the black box which he carried and, turning it to face Ardamir, opened it. The treasurer first squinted at its contents, then his eyes grew wide. Mithadan closed the box and returned it to its place under his cloak. "Where did you find these things?" demanded Ardamir. With a broad grin, Mithadan responded, "I shall tell that tale to the King if you will..."

[ December 11, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ]