Bree (Some years before the War of the Ring)

[The Barrow-Wight]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Wraith of Angmar
Posts: 2165</TD><TD><img src=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/my_pic.jpg WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
Tom tells his tale.

Tom took a place near the fire and rubbed his cold hands together in the warmth of its blaze. He stood looking into the flames, deep in thought, occasionally nodding his head as if he had reached some kind of an agreement in an internal conversation. His strange manner continued for some time until finally he turned and, with a smile on his face, looked around at the group of strangers.

“Good friends” he began loudly, “I have lived in Bree all my life. I know every inch of the all of Bree-land, every trail through the Chetwood and even every path of the Midgewater Marshes.

He paused to see if they were impressed yet. Since no one moved or said anything, he went on.

“And, indeed” he continued, “I know the Barrow-Downs as well. A place of great history but also of evil reputation! Long have the long mounds hidden the burial chanbers of dead Kings. And long have people yearned to rob them of their riches. But they are haunted!”

Now he was sure they were impressed. He began to gesture wildy as he continued his story.

“Torn Gryphon they are called in the ancient tongue.” He nodded to Menel and Calimir knowingly. “And the treasures in them are great . I once saw a sword thar was removed from one of the barrows, and it was the most exquiste weapons ever made by Man or Elf. But the man who found it died shortly after arriving in Bree, slain by a wight that pursued him from its rotten grave.”

He was beginning to sweat from the heat of the fire and the effort of his speech. He raised his hands above his heads menacingly.

“Yes! There are wights. I myself have seen one and it near scared the life out of me. But because I lived, I know the secrets of the Barrows. I know how to find the entrance and avoid the spirits. And with your help I, I mean we, can all become fabulously wealthy! Are you with me!?”

He ended his tale with a stomp and threw himself into a chair, grabbing the nearest mug and draining it.


</p>

[Lord Aragorn]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Pile o' Bones
Posts: 16</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
Hmmm

&quot;I am at least curious to learn of this place, and before you warn me again Menel, you know you cannot stop me aside from killing me.&quot; Talondin said aggressively.

&quot;How many people would you need for this, Tom? Better yet, could my weapons harm whatever we come up against?&quot; he asked putting his hand upon the now obvious hilt of his sword.

</p>

[Sharkû]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Hungry Ghoul
Posts: 853</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
The frowning Beorning...

Valdavar remained silent for the moment, but it was obvious he was thinking hard. The Beorning had his head hanging, and was chewing on his lips; sometimes he shook his head, and then he seemed to count something on his fingers. He gave a sound of displeasure, which disturbed the silence that had filled the room over the last few moments, and slowly raising his head, began to speak.

&quot;It is no good disturbing the dead. I would never do this voluntarily...&quot;
Valdavar took a deep breath.
&quot;But I did not come here for pure leisure either. Times are hard for us, I have to admit. And I think I can smell something fishy about those Barrow-Downs. If there is to gain something for me which I can bring home, and it would make profit, then we could afford more time for the things and tasks in which my heart really lies. Currently, we even have to struggle to make ends meet...&quot;

&quot;And so, people, let me tell you why we have sent out scouts, me being one of them. Travellers over the mountains are less and less, and business is made the worse by ever harder circumstances. We have many hungry mouths to feed. I have been given the errand to gain whatever useful I could find along the western road - information, impressions, friends and travellers, and also whatever a strong man could honestly lay his hands on. Such treasures may lie in that place.&quot;

&quot;I am a strong man, and learned in the ways of nature; I have learned to speak the tongues of animals, and to read the signs in bark and snow. I, Valdavar, son of Vurdvrikar the Word-keeper, will accompany if you are willing to go there! I fear no living man, and by my forebears, you should be glad if I go with you, and if you know what is good for you, you better watch what is good for me. For the hand which is laid on my back I will not leave there, or on its arm for that matter!&quot;

And, being glad as a small child because he really seemed to have scared at least some of the listeners a little (Tom Ferny for one), Valdavar laughed out again and clapped his hands on his thighs.


</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000006>Gilthali on</A> at: 4/13/01 4:29:41 pm

[KM Tinuviel]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Pile o' Bones
Posts: 16</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
Enter Galenwen

Back in the Common Room, talk fell to tales of the Elder Days, and many half-remembered tales were spun of great deeds done in the war against the Great Enemy. A weary, travel-worn figure in the corner sipped at a silver flask. No one could recall when the stranger had joined the company, but many had tried (and failed) to draw him into the conversation. The stranger wore a cloak of dark green, finely made of some soft, heavy cloth, but marred with the stains of many travels. He was very slight of build and carried no weapon save only a long knife that he brought out now and again to carve a bit of the hard yellow cheese that he ate with his bread. A lyre had been slung at his back and now rested close by his gloved hand. He kept his hood pulled close about his face, but now and again he leaned forward as some thread of a tale caught his interest, and a glimpse was seen of sea-green eyes, though the lower part of his face was hidden by a finely woven scarf.

The fire in the hearth had burned low as one of the company recounted the tale of &quot;Narn i Hin Hurin&quot;. At that very moment when the tale was come to its conclusion, a gust of chill, damp air blew open the great oaken door, and the lamps were snuffed out. The barmaid shrieked, and Barliman shouted for Nob to bring a light. Someone stumbled in the dark, and a table was overturned. A spark flared to a flame, and the glow showed the face of the stranger for an instant before he set the lamp on the table. His hood had fallen away, and all were surprised to see that &quot;he&quot; was in fact a tall elven maid in the riding-garb of a man. She was glad all in various hues of green, and her long black hair was caught up by a cord of leather.

&quot;Perhaps it is best not to speak of such things. There are stirring again in the wide world Dark Powers that relish not the name of the son of Hurin, for it was fortold that in the Last Battle he will smite the Great Enemy.&quot;

One of the company shouted,&quot;Tell us then, some other tale of the old days. Or better yet, play us a song on your harp, Lady.&quot;

&quot;Yes,&quot; said another, &quot;give us a song to lift our spirits on this dreary night.&quot;

The lady brought out her lyre and began to sing in sweet tones the Lay of Leithian, the tale of Beren and Luthien, but her song faltered ere the end, and she fell silent.

&quot;Please, Lady, finish the tale!&quot; one of the halflings begged.

&quot;Nay, friend, you will get no more from me this night. I have no more heart for music-making, and the end of the tale brings to mind painful memories of a dear friend long gone whither I cannot follow, for Luthien the Fair has passed indeed from this world.&quot;

The young hobbit gasped. &quot;Luthien? Your friend? But she died ages ago. You must be really old, then--ow!&quot; The young hobbit cried out as his ears were boxed by one of his elders: &quot;Don't you be fogetting you manners, now, young 'un.&quot;

&quot;Yes,&quot; the elf-maid laughed, &quot;for I am called Galenwen, and in ages past I was a pupil of Daeron the minstrel of Doriath. I sang before the throne of Elu Thingol,lord of Menegroth, and Luthien was my childhood companion. But Beleriand lies now at the bottom of the sea, and I am wont to wander, and I have no lasting abode.&quot;

At that moment Butterbur came bustling in with a tray of mugs, bound for the private room and Ferny's party.

&quot;Hey, Barley!&quot; Galenwen called, &quot;a moment of your time if you please!&quot;

&quot;Sorry, Lady,&quot; Butterbur replied breathlessly, &quot;but a moment is more than I've got at present. But I do have a message for you, if you can but wait for me to deliver this round of ale to the back room. Hi, Nob! Where is that wooly-footed rascal when I need him?&quot; Butterbur hurried out of the room, muttering to himself.

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000006>Gilthali on</A> at: 4/13/01 5:58:26 pm

[Lord Aragorn]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Pile o' Bones
Posts: 17</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
Really?

Talondin smirked and replied to Valdavar &quot;If you were tring to scare me with that little speech, it didn't work, beorning.&quot;

Catching Valdavar's attention, Talondin let loose a small smile, indicating that he was neither scared of him, nor would bend to his intentions.

&quot;Go on Tom, but know this, I will come with you, should you go.&quot;

</p>

[The Barrow-Wight]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Wraith of Angmar
Posts: 2169</TD><TD><img src=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/my_pic.jpg WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
I'll lead

&quot;That's all I've got to say, really&quot; said Tom from his chair. &quot;But we still haven't heard from everyone. I'll wait to hear from them before I make any plans.&quot;

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000002>RKittle</A>&nbsp; <IMG SRC=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/oneringicon.gif BORDER=0 WIDTH=10 HEIGHT=10> at: 4/13/01 6:34:43 pm

[Zoe]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Shade of Carn Dûm
Posts: 320</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
The Common Room- enter Andy, a hobbit from Bree

&quot;Ow, dad! Y' didn't have to box me ears!&quot; muttered the young hobbit who'd expressed surprise at Galenwen.

&quot;Well don't be rude to your elders Andy,&quot; replied his father.

&quot;Then I'll go an' apoligise to her,&quot; he said, secretly glad of the chance to see an elf. And one as old as Galenwen, too, he thought. Wow!

&quot;Don't you be making a fool of yourself.&quot;

&quot;I won't, dad!&quot;

Andy ducked another, friendlier ear-boxing from his father and walked over to Galenwen, nearly tripping over his oversized hand-me-down trousers.

&quot;Please, miss, my name's Andy, or rather Andonas, if it so please you,&quot; he stammered. &quot;I'm... I'm uh...&quot;

Galenwen looked up. &quot;Yes?&quot;

</p>

[The X Phial]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Haunting Spirit
Posts: 96</TD><TD><img src=http://community.universitypride.com/cecilyanne/X-Files-01.gif WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
From across the room

Calamir stirred in a far corner of the room. By the flicker of the lamplight she seemed almost a shadow as she sat in a high-backed chair near the door. Rising to her feet she surveyed her odd collection of companions.

&quot;My heart is heavy within me to hear talk such as this. I mean disrespect to none in what I am about to say, but I feel it my duty to speak my mind. This errand seems foolhardy to me. No, Talondin, allow me to finish.

&quot;I have lived for many years in the Hidden Realm of Lorien. I see that some of you are familiar with the name. I was sent by my queen, the Lady of the Forest, with messages which at the time seemed of little consequence. My mission is complete and my journey for now is simply to return home. Despite my misgivings and, quite honestly, my fear, of this errand, I feel that somehow my fate is caught up with this party. Perhaps the mission I was sent on was simply a vehicle to bring me into your company. In any case, it was foretold long ago that Calamir would encounter the lifeless in their homes. For these reasons, and others, I will accompany this party, though I seek no treasures of my own.&quot;

With this speech, she returned quietly to her chair. None spoke for several moments and it seemed to all that the noble lady was less joyful than before. Despite the gloom, however, Calamir's eyes shone with the knowledge that her ancient doom was finally upon her.

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000002>RKittle</A>&nbsp; <IMG SRC=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/oneringicon.gif BORDER=0 WIDTH=10 HEIGHT=10> at: 4/13/01 8:13:26 pm

[KM Tinuviel]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Pile o' Bones
Posts: 17</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
Re: The Common Room- enter Andy, a hobbit from Bree

Galenwen waited expectantly for the young halfling to speak.

&quot;So, you'd hear more tales of Elves?&quot; she asked.

Andy nodded vigorously, but didn't speak.

Galenwen laughed. &quot;Alright,&quot; she said, &quot;but this will be a bedtime tale for you, young one.&quot;

She lowered her voice to a whisper: &quot;I am on a mission.&quot; Andy's eyes widened as she continued. &quot;I am come from my kinsman Celeborn in the Golden Wood with a message for Cirdan of the Havens. That seems to be how I spend much of my time these days. No one takes notice of a lone minstrel, singing for her bed and board...going back and forth between Lorien and Rivendell, and running errands for that grumpy nag of a wizard, Mithrandir...which reminds me, where has our good innkeeper got to with my message?&quot;

Galenwen sighed. &quot;Oh, well, I suppose the weather is more favorable for fireside tales than for travelling.&quot;

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000002>RKittle</A>&nbsp; <IMG SRC=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/oneringicon.gif BORDER=0 WIDTH=10 HEIGHT=10> at: 4/14/01 8:45:30 am

[Beregond]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Haunting Spirit
Posts: 94</TD><TD><img src=http://www.luckyblackcat.com/halloween.htg/candle.gif WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
Beregond speaks

Beregond stood up. Tall he was, and in the glimmer of the firelight they could see his sword, shining bright.

And he said, &quot;I am a messenger of Gondor, sent to find tidings from the west. Long have I been abroad, and many roads have I tread since I left Gondor, yet now my mission is accomplished. Yet tidings also I bear from the east, and I will tell them to you.&quot; He paused, then said, &quot;We have reason to think that the Dark Lord has risen again in Mordor, and has built anew the Dark Tower. Forces he is gathering, and Mount Doom is smoking again. This may or may not be news for you, I do not know. Yet that is not my mission.&quot;

He stopped for awhile, as though thinking, then said, &quot;I will accompany you on this mission, though I do not know my peril, for we in the south know little of these wights, save in song, and they are but legends to us. Even so, I would go with you, for I deem that it is my fate. I will come with you, at least as far the barrows.&quot;

He then sunk back into his chair.

</p>

[Gilthalion]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Hobbitus Emeritus
Posts: 314</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
A Message for Galenwen

At that moment, Barliman Butterbur bustled back into the Common Room, this time with a sealed note in his fat fingers.

&quot;Begging your pardon, Lady. But there's that much to do around here and it seems you lordly folk find me useful to be your private postmaster, too, on top of all else. But that's as may be and it's well I can provide the service, when I'm not too busy with other chores, and there are plenty of those. Will there be anything else just now?&quot; he finished breathlessly.

&quot;No, my good Barliman, I thank you,&quot; said the elven minstril. Turning to the hobbit lad, she said, &quot;I pray you let me read this letter, and then I'll have a story for you.&quot;

Young Andy was happy to wait and half hoped to find out what was in the letter. He would not find out (at least not right away), but his disappointment would be assauged by the minstril's tale.

The letter was from the grey wizard.

<blockquote>Quote:<hr>
THE PRANCING PONY, BREE. SEPTEMBER 3

My dear Galenwen,

As usual, there is little time and I hope that we may have a merry meeting in the Golden Wood some time hence. You are aware of the growing Shadow, and of how all dark things in Middle-earth grow stronger and more wakeful with it. I need not tell you to be cautious. But I do.

I shall be gone from Eriador for some years most likely and I have sent such messages as I could contrive to those who travel through the land to be wary. It seems to my mind that the orcs and goblins of the Misty Mountains grow more numerous and the Road more difficult. Other things there are in the mountains who have been stirred to enmity for the traveler. Beware the Old Forest and the Downs, for ancient shades of malice are waking and will prey if they can upon greed or need.

<center> Treasures of old
of sword and gold
lie buried there.

Spells of shadow
'neath rolling meadow
fall to songs more fair.</center>

Keep your counsel for those with ears to hear, and let the wicked step into their own snares. Often foolish choices create opportunity for unforseen good. As is the elven way, say neither yea nor nay, but look for ways to help those who think they need no help, for they usually need it most.

Your friend,

Mithrandir (Gandalf)

P.S. My heart tells me that you may trust your luck once, but not twice! G.

P.P.S. Highway robbers may be found on the low way as well! G.


P.P.P.S. Small frames may conceal great hearts! Have a care for those who dare! G.
<hr></blockquote>


Galenwen refolded the note and tucked in into a bag.

&quot;Well now, little fellow! Perhaps you would like to hear the Tale of the Sun and the Moon?&quot;

Andy, and indeed the rest of the Common Room (even the Dwarves), were quite ready to hear whatever the elven minstril would say or play.

Meanwhile, other elven ears also heard faintly through the oaken doors, Galenwen's fair voice lifted up in song, and were ready for the matter with Tom Ferny to be decided.

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000006>Gilthali on</A> at: 4/14/01 2:27:07 pm

[The Barrow-Wight]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Wraith of Angmar
Posts: 2170</TD><TD><img src=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/my_pic.jpg WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
That's settles it!

&quot;Well then, that settles it!&quot; said Tom, standing and walking towards the door. &quot;We're agreed to explore the Barrow-downs and find our fortune.&quot;

He walked to the door and opened it.

&quot;But it is late and I have business at home yet. Shall we meet here at sunrise?&quot;

</p>

[Sharkû]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Hungry Ghoul
Posts: 854</TD><TD><img src=http://www.tolkiens-legacy.de/skogtroll[1].jpg WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
Shadows and sunrise

&quot;Alright! Sunrise then! I do not have anything against an early hour.&quot; said Valdavar.
&quot;I have to get a place to sleep now. Let's see what the innkeeper has still left for me.&quot;

Valdavar trotted slowly to the common room again, but halfway out of the room, he turned back to Beregond, the soldier of Gondor.

&quot;Say, Master Beregond, if you can spare a moment, I would like to hear more of the tidings you have brought. For the long reach of the things you have hinted can even be sensed far more north, in our lands; through the foul folk I have mentioned, and by the dreary sight of the Bald Hill.

&quot;Although, I can well understand it if you would rather not speak of the shadow any more. That which lies ahead of us might be enough even for a brave man.&quot;


</p>

[The X Phial]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Haunting Spirit
Posts: 97</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
Meeting in the Common Room

&quot;Sunrise by the door of this establishment it shall be, Tom Ferny,&quot; Calamir said, and then quickly slipped out into the hall. She was anxious to return to the common room for she had heard, even while Ferny spoke, the voice of her kinswoman Galenwen.

She reentered the large room as the minstrel began her song. Unnoticed, she sat and listened to the ancient tale of sun and moon, as she had so many times in the past. She noticed one small Hobbit in particular was entranced by the tale and smiled to herself as she thought 'Galenwen is indeed gifted in song.'

When the tale was over and the young halfling had started to beg for another, Calamir stepped forward, surprising both teller and listener.

&quot;Well met, Galenwen, fellow traveller of Lorien. In sooth, I was sent out long after you and yet we meet on our return journies. Has Cirdan kept you so busy?&quot;

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000006>Gilthali on</A> at: 4/14/01 2:31:41 pm

[The Barrow-Wight]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Wraith of Angmar
Posts: 2171</TD><TD><img src=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/my_pic.jpg WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
Tom leaves the Prancing Pony

With a short &quot;Goodbye&quot; Tom left the room and walked to the Common Room. Without a glance aroud him he went directly to the front door of the inn and left.

Barliman looked up from where he was breathlessly arguing with the Dwarves over the stabling of their ponies.

&quot;Tom and his schemes.&quot; he muttered to himself, and then, much louder &quot;No, my good Dwarf, your beast may not sleep in the inn no matter how clean he is! I assure you it is quite safe in our stable!&quot;

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000002>RKittle</A>&nbsp; <IMG SRC=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/oneringicon.gif BORDER=0 WIDTH=10 HEIGHT=10> at: 4/14/01 12:14:02 pm

[Gilthalion]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Hobbitus Emeritus
Posts: 315</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
A Fair Morning

Rooms were found for those who wanted them and soon the locals made their way home and the hired help of the Prancing Pony set to work on cleaning the place, as was their nightly custom.

The three elves adjorned to Calamir's room and talked through the night by the fire laid for them, with a jug of wine and one of fresh water and a loaf of bread and a small cheese on the side table.

While the others slept, the elves discussed the wayward men, and their need for the gold of the dead. Calamir was fearful of the dread Barrow-Downs. Menel less so, but could not let his headstrong friend go into danger alone.

&quot;Besides,&quot; said he, &quot;if that Tom Ferny means well, I'm a hobbit! He says more than he really knows, and has something to hide besides.&quot;

In the end, it was the elven minstril who decided them. The letter from Mithrandir seemed written for such a day, and she had no fear of elvish wights and the spells they wove.

&quot;Aye, that is well for you,&quot; said Calamir, &quot;for you have lived long and are very wise and skilled. But the song of one can be drowned by the songs of many, if they rise in legion.&quot;

&quot;Calamir speaks truth,&quot; said Menel. &quot;I do not think we dare stay long.&quot;

The elves agreed to help their friends in their reckless endeavor, for they pitied the good Beornings and the hard times that had befallen them, and did not desire to see Talondin or Beregond fall into the power of the evil wights.

<center> ~~~</center>

Beneath the window, under the eaves, a small dark shape listened to all they said with keen ears. Not even the elves could hear this, so quietly did it move. After a time, their conversation turned to other matters beyond the understanding of the eavesdropper, who had heard more than was good for him in any case. Ever so quietly, Andy moved away, and scurried back home before his father noticed him missing. Not even the elves would know it, but a certain young hobbit boy had decided that he would follow the adventurers himself the very next day!

<center> ~~~</center>

The next morning gleamed brightly, as Autumn mornings often do. Tom Ferny had even shaved and wore a clean shirt and was waiting for them promptly with the rise of the sun. He had a pack horse laden with supplies and tools. Talondin and Beregond were ready, Caramir and Menel were joined by Galenwen, and Valdevar the Beorning was timely as well, though he yawned continually and so widely that one could see the back of his teeth.

As the cocks crowed in Bree, the party set out West, leading the Sun on their journey, hoping to make good time so that the next sunrise would find them entering the Downs.

No one noticed for quite some time, the small figure that cautiously and quietly followed.

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000006>Gilthali on</A> at: 4/14/01 3:14:34 pm

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Plague Bringer
Posts: 8</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
Deep in thought.

Talondin walked, looking at the ground, lagging a few paces behind the rest of the group. The sun had risen high, and the party ahead was just discussing stopping briefly for some lunch.

The foremost thing on his mind, however, was whoever trailed them. He knew someone was there, but he could not hear much over the speech of the others.

&quot;What should I do about this follower..&quot; he thought to himself. Slowly and silently he drew a hidden knife from within his cloak. He spun around quickly and loosed the knife from his hand. It stuck in the ground just in front of a very surprised hobbit.

&quot;Who are you, you little tag-along?!&quot; Talondin yelled to Andy.

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000006>Gilthali on</A> at: 4/14/01 6:19:09 pm

[The Barrow-Wight]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Wraith of Angmar
Posts: 2173</TD><TD><img src=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/my_pic.jpg WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
Andy! Go home!

Tom looked back to the rear of the group where there was some kind of disturbance involving Talondin. The strange man seemed to be attacking a large rabbit or perhaps a small dog. The creature cowered in the road, Talondin’s dagger quivering where it stood half-burried in the hard-packed dirt.

“Please sir”, said the creature “don’t harm me. My da’ will die of sorrow if I don’t come home tonight.”

Tom recognized the tiny voice and walked quickly to where the hobbit lad lay on the ground.

“Andy Middleburrow!” he shouted at the frightened lad. “What on earth are you doing following us. Yer dad’s going to tan your hide with a willow switch when he he finds where you’ve been.” He ran his hands through his curly dark hair and glared down at the terrified hobbit.

“Please, Mr. Ferny” said Andy, coming to his knees and wringing his hands, “I didn’t mean no harm. It’s just that the elf lady told such wonderful tales last night that I just had to see where you all were going. And when I saw you were with them, sir, I figured it be alright for me to tag along.”

He looked around to the faces of the other adventurers hoping to find support or a friendly face.

Tom said to him angrily “Boy, you have no business out here on the Downs. You know better than that! Now get on back to town before I punish you myself!”


</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000002>RKittle</A>&nbsp; <IMG SRC=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/oneringicon.gif BORDER=0 WIDTH=10 HEIGHT=10> at: 4/14/01 6:47:34 pm

[Zoe]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Shade of Carn Dûm
Posts: 327</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
Re: Andy! Go home!

&quot;But... please, sir? Just to follow you for a while? I don' mean no harm, honest!&quot;

&quot;Do you know what danger we face?&quot; asked Galenwen, looking carefully at Andy.

Not sure what would be the most appropriate answer, Andy mumbled something.

&quot;Lad, when y' speak with a lady, y' don't talk to yer toes,&quot; said Tom.

Looking up, Andy said, &quot;I'm not scared of nothin'. Or not much, rather... Spiders an' the like...&quot; trailing off again.

&quot;Not scared of anyting?&quot; asked Galenwen. &quot;Very brave, but very foolish, too.&quot;

&quot;But please can I come with you? Just for a little way?&quot; said Andy, putting on the face he used when trying to get out of a beating from his dad.

</p>

[The X Phial]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Haunting Spirit
Posts: 99</TD><TD><img src=http://community.universitypride.com/cecilyanne/X-Files-01.gif WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
As he wishes

Calamir, a bit startled by Tom Ferny's violent response to the Hobbit child, took a long look at the poor lad obviously yearning for adventure. Her first instinct was to send him home where he would be safe. Casting her mind back, however, she remembered the note to Galenwen from Mithrandir that she had read the night before.

She turned to Galenwen, who was studying the child with a look of bemusment on her face. Finally, she spoke,&quot;Young sir, I do not doubt your bravery or your will, but this errand is simply far too dangerous for one as young as you.&quot;

Andy's face fell and he seemed to crumple to the ground in disappointment.

&quot;However,&quot; she continued, &quot;we do have need of a companion who would be willing to keep the ponies together for us. He would need to be quite brave, and patient, too. Would such a position interest you, Hobbit Lad?&quot;

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000095>The X Phial</A> at: 4/16/01 1:34:16 pm

[The Barrow-Wight]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Wraith of Angmar
Posts: 2180</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
The lad will be trouble..

&quot;Were you not listening to me, miss?&quot; said Tom angrily. &quot;The boy's parents surely don't know he's here and will be scouring Bree-hill for him if he's not home for the midday meal. We've got no business dragging hobbit-lads out onto the Downs.&quot;

&quot;No, they won't!&quot; Andy piped up. &quot;They think I've gone camping with my cousins! And well... I am going camping at least!&quot;

He looked around him but realized the others weren't supporting him. Calimir stood with her arms crossed and Menel was nodding his head in agreement with the elf maiden. Talondin and Beregond seemed completely indifferent and the Beorning wasn't even paying attention to the discussion, instead digging for something in his pack.

Tom obviously wasn't getting anywhere with his point about the boy so he said &quot;Well, it won't be on my head if anything happens to him!&quot;

He gave the young hobbit an evil grin and said &quot;The Wights especially like children!&quot;

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000006>Gilthali on</A> at: 4/16/01 6:21:21 pm

[Zoe]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Shade of Carn Dûm
Posts: 331</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
But he can come if he wishes

&quot;Tom,&quot; said Calimar, &quot;Wights are especially 'fond' of all who disturb them. Let the boy come. And since he will stay with the ponies, he will NOT come onto the Downs, will you, Andy?&quot;

Andy's face lit up.

&quot;But,&quot; she said, &quot;You must realise what you're getting yourself into. This is not a walk in the countryside, to end with a hot supper, a mug of beer, and a bed. This is dangerous. We may never return. Do you still want to come with us?&quot;

Andy almost argued, but then thought better of it.

&quot;Yes, I'll come. And I'll stay with the ponies.&quot;


</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000006>Gilthali on</A> at: 4/16/01 6:24:05 pm

[KM Tinuviel]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Pile o' Bones
Posts: 18</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
on the stubbornness of hobbits

Galenwen smiled to herself as she watched the hobbit lad strolling along beside her. He whistled a merry tune, and there was a bounce in his step. He acted as though he were going to a birthday party, she thought, amused.

She took a moment to observe young Andy; in all her travels, she had never met a hobbit before. The old wizard, Mithrandir, had always taken a special interest in Bree and in the Shire, and put great store in the courage and &quot;downright stubbornness&quot; of hobbits. Galenwen was observing plenty of both traits in Andy! And, strange as it sounded, having him in the company was rather comforting.

She thought back on the words of Mithrandir's post-script and wondered, not for the first time, if this was more than merely a &quot;chance&quot; meeting. She should have been on the road a day earlier, and would not have met up with this company at all if she hadn't tarried at the Prancing Pony. She had hoped to speak with the old wizard himself, but she once again had to content herself with a hastily scribbled note. She was seeing less and less of him as late; and his messages were becoming more and more cryptic of late! What could be keeping him so busy these days? Celeborn and Galadriel had warned her of increasing danger on the northern roads, but she'd not paid them much heed, thinking her errand lay elsewhere. And now, here she was, in a company of strangers, bound to knock on the front door of a barrow-wight!

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000002>RKittle</A>&nbsp; <IMG SRC=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/oneringicon.gif BORDER=0 WIDTH=10 HEIGHT=10> at: 4/17/01 12:41:00 pm

[Suldaledhel]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Eru's Gift
Posts: 328</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
Menel's conerns..

Menel had kept silent since the decision to travel to the downs, wrestling with his own inner thoughts and doubts. During most of the walk he had kept his head down, and watched his feet shuffle along to the pace set by the shaft of his spear tapping the ground.

Although Menel thought better of bringing the hobbit boy on this journey, that might well be the end of few--or all-- he grinned at the over ruling of Master Ferny's decisions, and the authority of Calimir on the matter.

He now approached the hobbit with a warm smile on his face, and his blue-green eyes glinted with an elvish twinkle. &quot;Well lad,&quot; he said in a friendly tone,&quot;I was once a boy myself, although many hundreds of years ago, and I can tell you right now you may watch the ponies for ten minutes before the spirit of adventure overcomes you, and then you shall set out trying to follow the rest of us. You must resist!&quot;

The elf grinned as he spoke, peering into the young adventurer's eyes. &quot;But,&quot; he added while drawing his voice to a whisper, which Andy scarcely heard,&quot; I know well the way of things, having lived here a long while. And who is to tell where valour may be found, ere all is finished. So tell me, tell not show, do you carry any sort of weapon? A pocket knife, a sling praps?&quot;

The eye's of the scout narrowed as he said this, and he glanced quickly in the direction of the Downs before returning his gaze to the hobbit near him.

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000006>Gilthali on</A> at: 4/17/01 12:45:29 pm

[Sharkû]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Hungry Ghoul
Posts: 858</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
From silence to whispers to talks

Valdavar had remained silent all the time since the company departed from Bree that morning.

Even when Andy joined the company, he paid little attention and was deep in thought. A restlessness seemed to have come upon him, as if they could not reach the Barrow-Downs fast enough, and whenever the way ahead was clear, he went way ahead of the party with long stalks, and only stopped when he heard Ferny or one of the elves call.

Now that the sun had nigh climbed up to its highest point, and shone as a ghostly lamp behind the thick clouds, the company rested; and the Beorning went to examine the new half-grown traveler a bit more.

He was as open as always in his action - the way he looked at the young hobbit from head to feet made clear that he was not overjoyous because of his company. While Menel talked to Andy, Valdavar shook his head and went off again.

But later, the Beorning walked at to the side of the ponies, who were standing near the travellers, and patted them softly on their manes with his big hands. At each of the ponies he lowered his head a bit and spoke something in their ears, shortly and calm, and too low for even the elves to hear, had they paid attention to this.

When Andy noticed this, and looked with big eyes at the strange massive man which he, in company of so many fascinating travellers, had not shown much interest in yet, Valdavar smiled at the hobbit, and said, &quot;Well, my lad, we know much of the nature of beasts, and these are fine ponies I may say. To speak the truth, I'd even say some of these can be more trusted than most of these people here. Aye, I prefer the pony to the weasel...&quot; Valdavar tried hard not to let it show that he meant Ferny. &quot;You seem to me a young hobbit who likes the beasts, although I well know you did not want to follow us because of them! Well, come here, and let's have a talk. A cheerful chap can always drive my bad thoughts away, and that's what I need right now.&quot;

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000006>Gilthali on</A> at: 4/17/01 7:19:56 pm

[Zoe]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Shade of Carn Dûm
Posts: 333</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
A brief conversation

&quot;I'm - I'm afraid I never caught your name before, sir,&quot; said Andy, hoping he wasn't being rude by this tall stranger's standards. There weren't any men like this in Bree, and he wasn't sure what to do.

&quot;It's Valdavar, lad,&quot; he replied, smiling slightly.

&quot;Ah. Yes,&quot; said Andy. &quot;Valdavar, Valdavar,&quot; he muttered to himself, hoping he would remember it and not embarrass himself later.

&quot;So, lad, why do you want to come with us? I've been wondering all this time. It's not like small folk to want to go adventuring,&quot; said Valdavar.

&quot;I really don't know,&quot; said Andy. &quot;But I don't want to stay back in Bree, where nothin' ever happens - why, Galenwen singing last night, that was practically the most exciting thing to happen at the Inn all year! I want to do something exciting, not just stay in Bree all my life, if you get what I mean, sir.&quot;

&quot;I do, I do,&quot; said Valdavar, and seemed lost in thought for a while.

</p>

[Gilthalion]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Hobbitus Emeritus
Posts: 338</TD><TD><img src=http://home.att.net/~robertwgardner/lotrmap.gif WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
On to the Downs!

The big man and the little hobbit got along quite well, finding much more in common than either would have guessed. Menel learned that Andy did indeed have a sling and boasted that he was quite proficient with it!

Tom Ferny grumbled to himself, but this signified nothing to the elves and men who went along the Road, following the setting Sun west to the Downs.

The rolling meadows rose up to the south of the Road, and could be seen beyond a long grey line.

&quot;That marks the bounds of the old Kingdom,&quot; said Tom.

&quot;I know,&quot; said Galenwen, who knew something more, but did not say. She looked at Caramir and Menel, who both also knew somewhat more of the region than Tom Ferny guessed.

&quot;My distant kindred were buried there,&quot; said Beregond. &quot;It is better that their gold be removed and no longer serve as the bait for the snares of evil wights.&quot;

&quot;I wonder,&quot; said Caramir.

&quot;I don't,&quot; said Talondin.

&quot;Are we going there tonight?&quot; asked Andy, looking nervously at the falling Sun.

&quot;No!&quot; said Tom crossly. &quot;No love of money would lure me out there after dark! We will camp on this side of the hedge line and explore after the Sun is on her way again!&quot;

Tom piled some rocks one atop another but did not say why. They left the Road at that point, and crossed over the fields until they came to the long hedge, which was much taller and broader than it had looked from afar. They made camp, building a nice fire, and talked and planned what they would do the next day.

After a time, Galenwen brought out her instrument and began to sing.

Kings there were not long ago
Who strode the world with pride.
They fought their kin both high and low
And fighting thus they died.

After came old spirits dark
In answer to dark spell
Calling ghosts with ears that hark
To summons dark and fell.

They wait there now in mounded grave
For those who lust for gold.
And who shall come and from them save
Mortal men grown over bold.

Songs there are that can be sung
By spirits living still
With warm sweet breath and harpstrings strung
That blow away the chill.

They wait for us in mouldy grime
To steal our lives away.
But let me sing to them in time
And live another day!

Talondin grimaced, but said nothing. The song did not bring them much comfort, though it ended well. They bade one another sleep well, though the elves took it upon themselves to keep watch.

Andy found it hard to sleep, imagining every change of wind to be a wicked wight calling out to him. But he dozed off and was snoring softly sooner than he knew and knew nothing more until the morning.

</p>

[Armiel]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Newly Deceased
Posts: 4</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
Enter Armiel

When the night had fallen completely dark a new song could be heard in the air, but it was not Galenwen who was singing. The voice drew nearer to the camp and the members of the company who had not yet gone to sleep could hear the song cutting through the dark night. Then the singer, walked into the light of the campfire.

By her appearance and her song it was obvious she was elven. She wore a long grey dress and a strong elven blade hung from her slender waist. Her hair was tied loosely behind her and her bright grey eyes glowed with a light of their own, for those who could see it.

“Greetings! What an odd place to find a camp and what an odd mix of campers! And Menel! It has been much too long dear friend” she said as she walked to the tall elf. “Though we Wanderers do get around indeed, we too seldom run into our friends...”

“It has indeed been too long my friend,” replied Menel and the sight of his old friend had brought a sound of cheer to his voice, though his countenance remained grim as he thought on their task.

Armiel then turned to the others “Forgive me for not introducing myself, my name is Armiel, I travel often through these parts. I have an errand to Rivendell, but now I see another task at hand. Perhaps I can help you!&quot;

Armiel glanced around the camp, her eyes narrowing when she saw Tom Ferny... whose shifty eyes did not meet her gaze. The other elves saw the glow of her eyes grow fiery, but this subsided as she turned away from the man and listened as the other elves quietly told her of the quest and of their misgivings.

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000006>Gilthali on</A> at: 4/20/01 12:06:02 pm

[The Barrow-Wight]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Wraith of Angmar
Posts: 2199</TD><TD><img src=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/my_pic.jpg WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
What a strange new traveler

Tom Ferny shuddered at the strange look the elf woman had given him. He had no idea who she was though he thought he may have seen her a time or two in the Prancing Pony. But she certainly seemed to know him or of him. Perhaps she was mistaking him for someone else. Sometimes people confused him for his brother Bill.

He turned to Talondin who sat near him tossing small rocks towards the fire as he eyed the newcomer.

&quot;What a strange new traveler&quot; Tom said quietly. &quot;I don't like the look of her. Not all elves are as good as people say, and some are downright wicked. Or so I've heard.&quot;

He moved a little closer to Talondin and lowered his voice even more. &quot;And we certainly don't need to divide our treasure any more than we have to, do we?&quot; he whispered.

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000002>RKittle</A>&nbsp; <IMG SRC=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/oneringicon.gif BORDER=0 WIDTH=10 HEIGHT=10> at: 4/20/01 7:32:53 pm

[The X Phial]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Wight
Posts: 105</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
Greetings, Armiel

Calimir and the other elves stood near to where Andy and Valdavar were slumbering and discussed the mission to the Downs. Calamir, delighted at seeing Armiel, welcomed her warmly.

&quot;Armiel, I have missed you, old friend. I have never forgotten that it was you who encouraged me to explore my skill at craft after my parents were slain by the orcs. What brings you into this part of the world?&quot;

Valdavar woke and turned, his ears quick to hear noises in the night. Even the little hobbit stirred, and seeing yet another elf in the camp, was suddenly wide awake!

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000006>Gilthali on</A> at: 4/21/01 8:35:12 am

[Sharkû]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Hungry Ghoul
Posts: 867</TD><TD><img src=http://www.tolkiens-legacy.de/skogtroll[1].jpg WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
Re: What a strange new traveler

Only after he had recieved a questioning look by Menel did Valdavar mutter a greeting at the elf woman. He saw Ferny's mood getting somewhat worse too, as he could judge by Tom's eyes narrowing and his lips pressing together. With a laconic shrug the Beorning got up and walked some steps away from the fire-place, so that he could just be seen at the border of the flamelit area.

&quot;Odd mix of campers, whom're you telling...&quot; he muttered too low for anybody sitting at the fire to hear, at least that was what the Beorning thought. &quot;And getting stranger and stranger... Elf-folk, I can stand... But so many, in such few time together in one place...&quot;

He sighed clear for all to hear.

&quot;And by the Great Bear, if that isn't a sign of danger, whether those mean well or not...&quot;

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000002>RKittle</A>&nbsp; <IMG SRC=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/oneringicon.gif BORDER=0 WIDTH=10 HEIGHT=10> at: 4/20/01 7:20:41 pm

[Lord Aragorn]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Pile o' Bones
Posts: 19</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
Odd? We shall see...

Talondin turned to Ferny and whispered &quot;Let us find her way afore we should judge her so much.&quot;

He stood from his place away from the group, and walked towards Armiel, smiling slightly as he stopped in front of her, a very rare occurance for him.

&quot;My name is Talondin&quot; he said. &quot;Unlike most of these people, I hail from no certain place. My 'home' is my pack and cloak.&quot;

He then outstretched his hand from under his cloak. &quot;It is nice to meet you.&quot;

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000002>RKittle</A>&nbsp; <IMG SRC=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/oneringicon.gif BORDER=0 WIDTH=10 HEIGHT=10> at: 4/20/01 7:33:32 pm

[Armiel]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Newly Deceased
Posts: 5</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
Interesting tale

Armiel returned Talondin's smile and warmly accepted his outreached hand. &quot;I too know what it is like to live from one's pack. Though I have a home in Rivendell, I spend most of my time wandering these lands&quot;

Her eyes glistened at such a warm welcome from a stranger and her gaze went directly to his eyes. Talondin could feel the deep penetrating gaze inside him as if she were reading his thoughts. Finally, she removed her gaze and smiled, turning happily to face Calamir.

&quot;It is very good to see you once again&quot; she said. &quot;It has been too long since my eyes have seen the fair beauty of Lórien.&quot;

Armiel beckoned Calamir closer to her and whispered so quietly that not even the Beorning could hear her words &quot;It is very strange indeed to find you on such a journey my friend. I am curious as to why you would be a part of this group. However I am sure there will be much time for explanations&quot;

Armiel's manner had become quite charming as she spoke to Talondin and Calimir but she spoke stiffly as she finally addressed Tom Ferny. &quot;Greetings Mr. Ferny&quot;. Again, thought not as bright as before, fire could be seen in her eyes.

&quot;Have we met?&quot; replied Tom harshly, obviously unhappy with the tone the elf was taking with him.

&quot;We just have&quot; she said and simply walked away from him.

Her wit had not impressed Tom.


</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000002>RKittle</A>&nbsp; <IMG SRC=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/oneringicon.gif BORDER=0 WIDTH=10 HEIGHT=10> at: 4/20/01 8:11:01 pm

[Zoe]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Shade of Carn Dûm
Posts: 334</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
More Elves!

Armiel's wit may not have impressed Tom, but Andy was fascinated. So many elves in one small point in space and time! There must have been something strange going on, causing all these chance meetings of old friends, but Andy was thinking only of how lucky he was. Imagine if his dad could see him now - the old man'd be shocked, probably give him a beating in surprise.

&quot;But who is this?&quot; asked Armiel, looking at Andy.

&quot;I'm called Andy, lady,&quot; he said, and too his surprise, bowed low.

&quot;I never knew a child with such manners,&quot; said Armiel, smiling.

</p>

[Suldaledhel]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Eru's Gift
Posts: 329</TD><TD><img src=http://suldalpic.homestead.com/files/00004.jpg WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
Re: Interesting tale

Menel stood watching the beorning mutter to himself before turning to Armiel. His friendly gaze met hers as he stepped forward, bowing with a warm smile on his face. &quot;Armiel it is always good to see you, although experience tells me that whenever you do so unexpectedly, trouble is oft afoot. What brought you hither? Surely it would be a fine coincidence should your travels and ours meet in such a way!&quot; As the elf spoke, he looked around, surveying the area as he greeted her, as if he expected some evil to descend upon the company that moment.

</p>

[Beregond]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Wight
Posts: 102</TD><TD><img src=http://members.attcanada.ca/~kind1/beregond.jpg WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
Re: Interesting tale

Beregond now walked over to Armiel, and offered his hand. &quot;My name is Beregond, and I am a messenger of Gondor,&quot; he said, &quot;I'm glad to meet you!&quot;

</p>

[Gilthalion]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Hobbitus Emeritus
Posts: 342</TD><TD><img src=http://home.att.net/~robertwgardner/lotrmap.gif WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
A Grey Morning

Introductions had been made all around but soon the men and the hobbit grew weary once again and turned in for the night. The elves talked softly for some time before themselves taking rest in their dreamy waking elvish way.

The sun rose the next day, pale and watery behind a low cover of clouds. The Downs were shrouded in mist, as if expecting the travelers, and as if the haunted lands had prepared a gloomy reception especially for them.

After a hurried breakfast, Tom Ferney called to the party from a gap in the grey hedge.

&quot;The biggest mounds are probably the best,&quot; said Tom. &quot;And they are in the center of the Downs. It will take much of the morning to reach them, but the best pickings will likely be dug up there. Let's get going!&quot;

Leaving Andy to see to cleaning up breakfast, tidying the camp, and keeping all but Ferny's pack horse, the party followed behind Ferny and his animal deep into the heart of the mist shrouded Barrow-Downs, to where the greatest treasures --and dangers-- were said to lie.

</p>

[Lord Aragorn]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Pile o' Bones
Posts: 20</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
A Queit Day

As the group walked deeper into the downs Talondin couldn't help but be excited at the riches he would be gaining once they got to their destination. He followed at the rear of the group, watching everyone and everything around him, all the while holding his fingers loosely on the hidden hilt of his sword. He was prepared for anything that would come along.

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000002>RKittle</A>&nbsp; <IMG SRC=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/oneringicon.gif BORDER=0 WIDTH=10 HEIGHT=10> at: 4/21/01 4:31:16 pm

[The X Phial]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Wight
Posts: 109</TD><TD><img src=http://community.universitypride.com/cecilyanne/X-Files-01.gif WIDTH=60 HEIGHT=60></TD></TR></TABLE>
Re: On the downs

Calimir, near to the front of the group, could already feel a sense of disturbance among the company. She and the other elves were all armed with weapons but she knew it would take more than swords and bows to defeat a wight. In fact, she had brought several smaller objects that might be of more use than any dagger, no matter how smartly wielded.

In her pack she carried a small bag of white stones similar to the one set in silver about her neck. These stones were the Calimiri from which her name had been taken, Jewels of Light. They were her special creation, the result of many years of work. The white stones, which appeared to be quite normal upon inspection would lend to the owner or carrier a white glow when confronted with creatures and things twisted by the Shadow. They had many drawbacks as they made it very difficult to hide and their power could be quite short-lived, but she knew that of everything in her arsenal, light was the one the barrow wights hated most and even a small glow might provide a measure of protection.

Sureptitiously, Calimir had given one of the stones which bore her name to each of the elves and had stowed one secretly in the packs of the other travelers as well. One had also been left for Andy, and she had told him to keep it for luck. She had decided against openly giving the jewels to the non-elven for fear that avarice and greed for the stones would mar their functioning. She hoped they would not be needed, but if they were they could help the travelers whether they knew their real worth or not.

</p>Edited by: <A HREF=http://www.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_profile&u=00000002>RKittle</A>&nbsp; <IMG SRC=http://www.barrowdowns.com/images/oneringicon.gif BORDER=0 WIDTH=10 HEIGHT=10> at: 4/21/01 6:53:58 pm

[KM Tinuviel]

<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Pile o' Bones
Posts: 19</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE>
At the Barrow

Galenwen had her own weapons for combatting Wights. She was comforted by the weight of her lyre, still slung at her back. She knew the power of a song-spell, and tried to recall all of the tales she had heard of the Eldest, Iarwain Ben-adar, who was said to hold sway over what was left of the Old Forest. Indeed, such songs were one of the ways the Wights' spells were broken, if the stories were true. Galenwen was glad also of the white stone hidden away in her pouch, next to Mithrandir's letter. That letter! She pondered how she had gotten mixed up in all this. She had some choice words for the old wizard at their next meeting!

It was almost noon when they reached a large barrow near the center of the Downs. The great, green mound cast no shadow, for the sun was directly overhead, but a chill draft wafted over them from a dark doorway of ancient stonework. Tom Ferny shivered.

&quot;Having second thoughts, Ferny?&quot; Galenwen asked.

Ferny scowled, &quot;No, Lady, not I. But can't you feel that cold dank wind? It's eerie, like, that wind, the day being bright and warm, that's all.&quot;

&quot;Indeed, the fell winds of Angmar are enough to bring a chill even to my bones, Ferny,&quot; Galenwen replied, &quot;but I fear not the shades of Men. Petty spirits bewailing the loss of their brief kingdoms, jealously guarding their stolen hoards. No, I don't fear them. But I would not be unhappy, even so, if we abandoned this quest. What say the rest of you? If the others are determined to go in, I will accompany you.&quot;

At that Beregond spoke up. &quot;I for one will go in!&quot; he said. &quot;I like not the thought of my ancestors' bones being profaned by Barrow Wights.&quot;

Talondin, Menel, and the Beorning were in agreement. Armiel made no comment. Galenwen and Calimir shrugged at each other. &quot;Well,&quot; Calimir laughed in a low voice meant only for Galenwen and Armiel to hear, &quot;it seems that we must tag along, if only to save them from themselves.&quot;

Galenwen laughed as well. &quot;Maybe that was Mithrandir's purpose in sending me that message. In any case, we must urge the others to make all speed, if we are really going to do this, before the Sun climbs much higher in the sky.&quot;

Ferny noticed the Elven maids laughing quietly together, and frowned. There was nothing funny about this whole thing that he could see!

</p>