|
Ascasir was perplexed. It would would seem that his hasty attempt to apologise and explain himself has been misinterpreted. Not only had he failed to convey his friendly intends to the young maiden, he seemed to have given her the impression that he was angry and offended and that somehow it was her fault.
Placing his fork down on the plate, Ascasir looked at the innkeeper in earnest. Quzzical eyebrows raised when he saw that the latter had extended her right hand towards him and was noticibly waiting in anticipation. Deducting her intentions correctly, Ascasir reached out, gently grasped the slender but sinewly strong hand and introduced himself in westron,
"I am Ascasir of Eryn Lasgalen, dear Aman. And please forgive me if my manners have been lacking for I have not much experience with men and my ability to converse in the common tongue is limited. My peers have often pointed out that I assume a stern and forbiding mien whenever I am in deep thought or confusion. Please be assured that I was never annoyed and do not think of me arrogant or petty. This I beg of you,"
Letting go off the young maiden's hand, Ascasir continued slowly,
"I was a member of the household of Lord Carahnwë - a great captain of King Thranduil's. The master has since departed these shores for the Undying Lands but before so he discharged us, his servants from our tenure of service. Many have decided to follow him yonder but a few of us decided to stay in this land, at least for alittle while longer. I am one of those.
I have spent all my life within the confines of the forest and have never ventured beyond its borders until four full moons ago when I decided to visit a dear friend who is working on the restoration of the river city of Ithilien even as we speak now. The journey south filled me with an indescribable feeling of joy and since then wanderlust took me. I have gazed upon the high walls of the white tower, crossed the roaming plains of Rochand, forded the Isen and admired the handy work of the ents at Mount Fang. Now my journey has taken me to Eriador and right into your tavern.
During my brief stay at Ithilien, I became acquainted with the men of the Steward of Gondor's household. I enjoyed their companionship and learned much of the manners of men from them, though now after this incident I will question some of these teachings,"
As Ascasir concluded, he bowed slowly in respect.
|