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Old 09-27-2002, 10:31 AM   #57
Child of the 7th Age
Spirit of the Lonely Star
 
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Sting

Harad/Umber

Urken rubbed his hands together and smiled. The message lay before him on the table. So the two planned to meet with him outside the city gates one day hence. The meeting would take place under cover of night. One part of his plan seemed to be falling into place.

He wanted to be very careful not to make any mistakes. Trade had never interested him in and of itself. But he did see it as a valuable tool which could lead towards other things. His family had inherited enough land and status to live comfortably. And Urken was not one whe felt compelled to pile up large quantities of goods. But, still, how was he to get in and see Elessar with a small delegation?

And trade did seem to be a magic word right now: not just in Harad, but all across the lands of Middle-earth. With the war over, people's thoughts seemed to turn quite naturally towards their physical comfort and security. If trading was required, he could definitely learn how to negotiate deals with the very best!

With that in mind, he looked down at a letter just returned by the messenger. It came from a trusted underling whom he had secured a position for in the household of Gramil. He read over the letter with interest, noting the arrival of Jarl from Dale. Yes, he would definitely need to keep an eye on that situation!

Urken rose and called for his manservant. He instructed him to pack his belongings for an extended trip away from home, and to prepare his oliphaunt and steed for possible transport on a ship. Then, he went to the locked cupboard and took out his personal weapons. He pulled out an ancient sword, It was plain and unadorned, but its blade was still gleaming and sharp as if it had been made just yesterday. Yet, it was said to be one which had originated in the drowned lands of Akallabeth.

Beside the sword was a bow and two daggers. The latter had been purchased at considerable expense through one of the rare dwarf caravans still operating. The daggers were rumored to be of Elvish origin.

He slid the daggers into the sides of his boots, strapped the sword to his waist, and slung the bow over his shoulder. Then he went down to the stables to mount his steed and go down to the harbor. He wanted to take a good look at those ships, their layout and defenses, in preparation for their assault.

[ October 20, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]
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