[Thenamir]

====== Blue Mountains ======

"...what you really ought to be worried about, my lord, is tribute! What conquering man-king does not force tribute from his subjects?" Mikhelm Bonecrist grumbled as they climbed into the two-pony trap-cart which held their provisions and their gear for the long journey.

"They did not conquer *us*," ventured Theron from the rear bench (somewhat wider and more cushioned -- rulership does have its perks). "Tribute is exacted from the conquered, not from loyal subjects."

"Aye, but will he consider us 'loyal' if we insist on keepin' to ourselves, that's my question,” Mikhelm retorted. “You've known men to do worse, especially when there's power to lord over someone. Remember the tale that got back to us about our old friends, Bifur, Bofur and Bombur, who got caught up in the scemes of that meddling old wizard Olorin? Remember that man Bard who led an army of men and elves to try to take their gold from the Lonely Mountain?" Mikhelm spat on the dusty road to show his disgust.

"And you've known the rest of that story too, Mikhelm," argued Theron, "that Bard became one of the staunchest of allies and best of friends with Dain Ironfoot after they joined together to fight off the orcs and wargs that came against them. And the wizard helped them too, which shows you tr to skew what little you know. If Olorin had not gotten them together, Smaug would still be sitting on that pile of gold and gems, and hundreds of fine dwarves would still be mining iron instead of crafting things of beauty”

Serin listened carefully as he clambered into his spot on the driver’s bench next to Mikhelm. Theron was not only an old warrior but also as close to a diplomat as dwarves got. It was a skill he would have to pick up on the way if he wanted to argue his case successfully to both lord Theron and King Elessar. He picked up the reins and urged the fresh young ponies down the road that led towards the Grey Havens, the White Towers, and eventually the Shire.

[ September 26, 2002: Message edited by: Thenamir ]