Vinyarod's Journal

	The Writing's of Vinyarod Knight Bachelor of the Lorien Guard
	61 Laer 3026 All is quiet along the border and this day even the birds fly with a bit more confidence. Tension within the Main Guard Talon is high, and concern over our shortage of leather is upon the lips of many. I have little understanding over the illness faced by our herd, and in fact its been several hundred years since I've even seen the herd. With that I lay my confidence with the healers, foresters, and all others who have the skills to make things right once more.
	62 Laer 3026 Squires! What lack of sense they seem to have of late. Weapons laid upon the ground during conversation with fair maidens! Abandoning posts without proper relief or order! Disrespectful words and acts towards the knights and those above! Do they not see! Do they not listen! My disappointment is great and I can only pray that my days as a Squire did not affect our leaders as these new recruits do with me now.
	63 Laer 3026 Watch is clear once more and for this I am grateful. I have noted a great distraction in my fellow Bachelor Erethringil during our off duty hours in regards to the fair maiden Caelwen. I had for a moment cast my eye upon her, but that seems a fruitless effort now. In the end it seems a good thing for my heart lies with the Order.
	64 Laer 3026 Knight Seregwen came to me this day whilst I watched the border. I am to join her on a trek north to trade gold for leather. With the order given, I am to seek out information of the northern lands and all who dwell there and gather supplies for a party of 7. I am told that the order was given by the Lady herself, and that we are to obtain leather for the wood by any means. With the increased activity of the yrch over the lands the trip is to be a dangerous one, and we are not to fail.
	65 Laer 3026 Received entrance to the royal court this day and spoke with Celeborn's Royal Herald Calriel. I was greatly intimidated by this elleth due to the importance of her position and her seemingly ageless wisdom. She provided information of Amon-Thranduil and the human lands beyond. I am concerned by her comments of Mirkwoods King as he has an unnatural love for gold. Possibly this will make the trade a quick one as we are to travel with great quantities of gold. She sent me to the library with permission to obtain needed maps. They are old but it is my hope that they hold enough accurate information to guide our path. I take rest in the city's rose garden and while I pour over the maps provided I am honored to meet the lovely maiden Oerwen. I feel that I do not offer her just attention due to my distraction over the coming trip north, and in honesty I still feel the burn of unspoken rejection by Caelwen in favor of my fellow Bachelor Erethringil.
	66 Laer 3026 Long hours of studying the maps has lead me to plan a presentation for Knight Seregwen. If the truth be told little is known of most routes and have decided to present one plan to reach Amon-Thranduil. When I presented to plan it was welcomed. I was well prepared and I am pleased she accepted my recommendations. It will take us 12 long days of travel, well past any distance I have ever gone, but for the Lady I would travel to the ends of Middle-Earth and back if she were to so order. I now have three days to prepare as we leave on the fourth from.
	67 Laer 3026 It is no easy task to gather equipment and supplies for seven when so few know of our plans. Each edhel I speak with must be provided an understanding of my reasons for need. Considering the swiftness of this plan it is understandable that so few know of the Lady's desires. Thankfully any comments of the impossibility that we would travel this far from the wood are silenced once they learn of who's desire we follow. Still it has made my task difficult. A full days labor end with results and I've placed our supplies at Naith. My only comfort of late has been visits from the fair maiden Oerwen. I shall miss her greatly.
	68 Laer 3026 With the supplies gathered the load is too great to be carried upon our backs. Faced with this perplexing problem, Knight Seregwen provides a solution in the form of three elvish steeds who will go with us as pack animals. As it stands it seems that the Senior members of the party shall also ride, but I along with another as yet unnamed member of our group shall lead these three animals. If given an option I too would like to ride, but my station is low so I remain silent with that thought. Still, my knowledge of horses shall be used at least to care for them and in some small way that is enough to make up for the lack of my own mount. Seregwen seems impressed by my knowledge of these animals and this pleases me greatly.
	69 Laer 3026 Final preparations are made, and the members of the party are known. The Knight-Banneret Mia, Knight Veteran Liir, Knights Seregwen and Celeblas, myself, and two knowledgeable in languages, Prefect Galindrion and Courier Lothlhant. From my last trip with the Knight Banneret and Knight Veteran I know to give them privacy while at camp. There is something odd about them both and though I know they share some feelings for each other I suspect that something more exists. What I do not know, and again it is not my place to ask. Knights Seregwen I know well after having served long hours under her leadership, while Knight Celeblas I know little which I find odd considering his rank, but then again he may well serve often along a different border whereas I find myself mostly at Naith. I know Galindrion reasonably well and suspect many an interesting conversation will come between us during this trip. He is of my house and though his visions are often at odds with most within Lorien, I find myself mostly agreeing with his words, though he looses me often in meanings. Lothlhant joins us, and I know little of her. While she has some skill in the human tongue which may or may not be needed, I find her skills with weapons unacceptable and suspect she will be a liability rather than an asset if we find ourselves at odds with an enemy. Surprises seem aplenty in regards to this trip, and in the late hours of the day the Lady's own Royal Herald joins the party. He makes no attempt to make conversation with us, but due to his position and importance this makes perfect sense. His presence makes a great impact upon me as this shows to me the great importance the Lady has placed upon our attempt to obtain leather. I know not of how much I will speak with him during our trip as he fills be with the same amount of intimidation that Celeborn's Royal Herald did.
	70 Laer 3026 We leave this day! Well before the sun rises I find myself at Naith to Prepare the horses to leave. Lothlhant joins me and I find at this moment that it is she who will be leading one of the pack horses. She knows little of their care and precious time is taken as I show her the skills needed to keep our animals comforted and healthy. Such sarcasm exists in this elleth, and I'm not sure I like it. Does she not know the importance of this mission? She is lovely to look upon but when considering the path we are to take, I would prefer to look upon the face of a battle tested member of the order instead. Still I am pleased with myself and the restraint showed while teaching her skills with our pack animals. As the sun bears down over us the members of the party gather silently and we leave the borders of the Golden Wood. I look back upon my home with longing as I will not see it's beauty for many a long day.
	71 Laer 3026 The shadows of the Misties loom's ahead of us. Dark gray and blacks whisper warning of danger to me though I know in reality the mountains are only rock and soil. Wisps of clouds cascade down from the hidden peaks shrouding any vision of what lay upon the great mountains. We travel silently, with each in our own thoughts. Oddly I wonder how Oerwen has passed the day and I wonder if she misses me.
	72 Laer 3026 Three days travel and we reach the Boundary Stone, a large standing stone which stands oddly upright. On both its north and south faces names have been scratched into the stone. This place is well traveled and tracks of orc, man, and possibly elf are found in the soft soil. We camp here this night, though silently I find it unwise considering the traffic which seems to have passed through her recently. Still I trust Knight Seregwen, and while we are in the company of those of senior rank the decision is left to her and since I do not know her mind then I can only assume her knowledge is greater than my own.
	1 Iavas 3026 In the early hours of this day, I find myself in the company of Galindrion and Lothlhant, in conversation. As expected our word are interesting and again I am treated to a challenging discussion. But then, as I find laughter in Galindrion's words we find ourselves approached by none other than the Knight Protector's long range patrol. We are shocked to say the least. I am ashamed of my own stumbling in the face of being approached so easily without offering even a hint of challenge, and my recovery is poor. Alas, my station is low and Haldir intimidates me just as the Royal Heralds. I know in my mind that he and the Heralds are edhel as I am, nothing more and nothing less, but their long years and many experiences sit always present in my mind and I feel lessor in both skill and knowledge. I wonder at times if my own hesitations with these elders is not the same as the humans feel when they meet one such as myself. When the Knight Protector makes it know that he is to join us, I am shocked and resolve myself to get past my hesitations. I have no choice. If I show myself to be a nervous and bumbling fool I could very well find myself out of the order, and in turn if I show abilities I know I am capable of I could very well find myself with a promotion. Sadly, I do not believe there is a middle ground whilst in the company of so many who are senior to me.
	2 Iavas 3026 We travel northwards fast to keep from meeting yrch who are known to frequent the foothills and soon make our way to the Northern Bank of the Gladden Rivern. Tension exists within our small company who now numbers nine, but I suspect it has to do with the dangers that lurk around us and to a lesser extent to the presence of the Knight Protector. Possibly I am not alone in the desire to show our best side? I dare not question anyone to confirm or deny, but instead I take great comfort in the silence.
	3 Iavas 3026 Again we are on the move, and our pace is swift as we move into the Beorning lands. It is oddly quiet and I find myself wondering where are those who inhabit this land. At the Vales of the Anduin we head eastwards towards the Beorning Guardhouse and the village beyond.
	4 Iavas 3026 We make camp on the Cliffs over the Anduin, just south of the Guardhouse. Our presence is still a secret, which is wise for we are burdened with great quantities of gold. Again I am party to a Discussion with the Prefect on the Cliffs of Anduin. He holds a great love for humans, while I am reserved in my opinion. If one were to be able to get past their smell and strange ways I imagine they would be likeable enough. Shortly after the discussion ends we are approached by a Beorning. The visit is short and he hurry's away quickly westwards towards something.
	5 Iavas 3026 We move swiftly though the Beorning village, seeking no contact. No one remarks upon the scarcity of inhabitants. I myself expected some to find us as they did on my last journey since the seem to be awake and wandering their village at all hours of the day.
	6 Iavas 3026 We travel swiftly southeasterly and the dark and foreboding woods of Mirkwood look in the distance. Silence which has become a part of our company, and I have begun to crave a simple conversation without words of threat or danger.
	7 Iavas 3026 As we near Mirkwood, the dangers return. While the Beornings are well noted for keeping their lands clear of yrch, they face dangers from both the Misties in the east and Mirkwood in the west. Late into the night of his day we find ourselves again with company trailing us. Along the Open Plains glowing eyes of Yrch can be seen. With that, we continue on for a short distance until making camp. I have no powers of foresight, but I can see that we will at some point have to face some conflict.
	8 Iavas 3026 Moving further south and east, we move quickly, hoping to lose our followers. I sense some concern from those within the group, myself included. I hold to Liir's words that those who were spotted last night are only a few and that we have no fear of greater numbers.
	9 Iavas 3026 We take rest before Mirkwood. To me it appears dark and unfriendly, but I know as fact that distant kindred dwell within. In the darkness a wolf approaches us from the south, and we quickly dispatch it. Like the yrch a few days past it seems alone.
	12 Iavas 3026 A few days have passed and this is the first I've had to enter my thoughts. All remains quiet, but the thick growth along the once great Old Forest Road is making our travel difficult and slow. We have been gone from the Golden Wood for fourteen days now, and by distance alone we should have already reached Amon-Thranduil. In my silence I feel we are being watched, by what I do not know. I am hesitant to speak of my feelings and ease my mind by keeping close watch. At the pace we are moving, I suspect it will be 6 days more till we reach the point in which we are to turn north toward Amon-Thranduil.
	13 Iavas 3026 This day will be long remembered. What seemed to be a simple stop to tend one of the pack animals resulted in my earning disfavor from the Lady's Royal Herald. Worse, if that were possible, it was witnessed. This will not soon be forgotten by the Courier Lothlhant, and will as some point be returned to me as a reminder in the form of the sarcasm she seems to be so fond of. I doubt that I will strike back in kind. A shadow appeared in the dark shadows of Mirkwood, and by the questions I was nearly sure it was one of our distant kindred. I thought myself being protective. How I was to know it was Erinstar is beyond me for this was the first I have heard his voice. I suspect the scene will replay over in my mind until such time that I can bring forth answers to my failings. Such questions he asked are beyond me, and why he asked them a great mystery. The intimidation I feel in the presence of a Royal Herald has only grown for this day my fears have been realized. In my own mind I see other ways in which a point could be made over and above that which was done. If humiliation was the point of the encounter, then it was successful for I could not answer Erinstars questions and have no understanding as to why they were even asked. I am humbled to say the least and am now firmly resolved to avoid his company. Evenso, I am left to ponder his questions, for each day that breaks I learn more and someday I may be able to answer them.
	14 Iavas 3026 We continue eastwards along the Old Forest Road. These woods are dark and seem almost as if they do not welcome our intrustion. I keep to myself, as I do not wish a repeat of the previous day.
	15 Iavas 3026 We camp at the point in which we are to begin a northward trek. Why we pause I do not know, and can only assume that we wait for some welcome from those who dwell in this land. I had the most enjoyable conversation with the Knight Banneret about weapons. Although it is expected that a trainer be well versed in the weapons they use, I still found myself impressed with her knowledge.
	16 Iavas 3026 Still we wait, and the eerie surroundings are setting my nerves on edge. I find myself looking at the stone troll and the realization that it was once alive reminds me that others of its kind could very well be nearby. I hope for some word as to our plans.
	17 Iavas 3026 The weather turns cold and we remain camped by the stone troll. I sit upon the belly of the troll this day, imagining the horrible fierceness it had in life. It is my greatest hope that we do not meet a live creature such as this. A pause in my writing as the Knight Banneret comes upon me. Before I can return to placing my thoughts on paper we are FINALLY approached by those living in this land.
	18 Iavas 3026 We leave the shelter of the trees and head westward into grasslands. While the trees within Mirkwood emitted no hint of welcome, I find them preferable to the wide open spaces.
	19 Iavas 3026 Within the Dale-land we make camp and I am ordered to unpack the white stallion who has served us thus far as a pack animal. When I am told to mount it and ride forth on a scouting trip with Knight Seregwen my heart sings. Many days I have walked whilst my seniors have ridden so this is a treat. Many hours of ridding brings us sight of cattle and a settlement beyond. I have oddly caught the Knight looking upon me, not as a Bachelor but as an ellon. While she is fair to look upon and shares many common interests and thoughts, she is still my senior. Only a moment of consideration regarding the Knight passes through my thoughts and I remind myself that any moves on my part could be considered dual faced. Our return is in silence, and the work that follows diverts my mind from any further personal thoughts.
	20 Iavas 3026 We travel fast now. None follow, and the road is easy. We move first east and then south. The grasslands lay to our right, and water to our left.
	21 Iavas 3026 The Dale-Land city of Esgaroth looms before us. The city itself appears almost unfriendly as the main entrance is reached by a draw bridge which reminds me remarkably of a dragons mouth. Sharp spikes can be seen at the gate with a long tongue of wood stretching towards a dark entrance. We slow slightly on our approach, taking in the sight before us. When we go forth we're stopped by human guards. I speak no mannish, but even I could tell that they spoke not of good tidings but rather some challenge. I know not of what they speak, but the Royal Herald appears to be making a valiant effort to rely some message but whatever it is he says is not well received. Curiosity grows within me and I make way to the Courier Lothlhant to learn something of the words the humans speak. When I learned that they wished to take our weapons, anger grew within me. Foolish humans! Fear driven humans! We are a gentle folk with no cause to harm any, save for those who threaten us. Our weapons are surrendered, reluctantly, but still some among us are still a powerful sight even without swords or bow. Entering the city we draw many stares, but these are ignored by all within my group. From my position within the group, I can not see who among us leads us southwards but we soon approach the elvish embassy. I and Lothlhant are left with instructions to stable our horses. Thankfully the stables are only across the street. It is long hours of work with the animal's and well past sunset before Lothlhant and I return to the embassy. Sleep does not come easy to me this night.
	22 Iavas 3026 I learn today that the Royal Herald had attempted to convince the humans that our weapons were "mystical" and that they would do harm to the humans if we turned them over. I must ask my seniors if this is what we are to tell humans should we meet them in the future. I find it odd, but then again I have so little experience outside the Golden Wood. But this does explain the rumor's I've heard that the humans of Rohan think us sorcerers and would kill us rather than face our magic. How different the Royal Court is from the Order in both methods and views.
	23 Iavas 3026 The most senior of our group takes counsel with the Ambassador as several of us go forth into the city to find our way and to seek for word of a leather trader. The city and its inhabitants smell of fish and things beyond my understanding. I feel as if I am being watched at every turn. When privacy is found I will speak of my feelings to see if they are shared.
	24 Iavas 3026 Still we search for a leather trader. We come upon a dwarf during our search of the streets and attempt to communicate with him to seek information. Unfortunately, from the reaction of the Dwarf to Knight Seregwen's language skills, I fear that the Knight has the possibility to cause quite a disturbance if permitted to speak. She had early mentioned that the Banneret had forbidden the Knight to speak, and know I know why. I can only hope that she has not somehow managed to trade me for Mithril by mistake as neither she nor I know exactly what it is that she said to the Dwarf. I will speak with my seniors regarding this. I suspect I will be ordered to keep Knight Seregwen from speaking.
	25 Iavas 3026 The hour of our return was late and I annotate the events of last eve on this day. Success at last! The leather trader has been found and arrangement have been made to meet to discuss the terms of a leather trade. It is odd that we meet the trader as we did. A city guard passes us, and as the result of poor language skills on the part of bout Knight Seregwen and the Knight Veteran Liir we think ourselves invited to the local tavern for a drink. I am growing more uncomfortable with the disadvantage we have in communication. As bright and as long lived as we are we find ourselves frequently looking odd and foolish due to misunderstandings. I make a promise to myself this day. I will learn the mannish language once I have have time and have reached an acceptable skill with my weapon. It seems a frivolous task considering my role within the order, but the frustration I feel over the inability to speak with these simple folk is increasing by the day.
	26 Iavas 3026 My seniors remain in counsel with themselves, and I am left to wander the city alone. They are a strange folk and for a people who live in a city with a Sindarin name, I find very few who speak the language. I wonder how many know that this city means "reed-delving" in my tongue? Few I imagine. Good fortune is on my side, and while wandering I speak aloud my desire to learn more of these people I am heard by one with a minor skill in my language. I am directed to a building, one in which I discover is their Town Hall. Inside there is a library with a few books written in Sindarin.
	27 Iavas 3026 What a strange people these Dale-landers are! Again I wander the city, and although I had hoped to visit the books discovered in the Town Hall I find it closed and locked. It seems that the humans close things down at nightfall. How strange this is considering the little need we edhil have for rest, but while in Dale one must do as the Dale-landers so I follow several humans to yet another tavern. As with the other tavern I've visited, this one reeks of some disgusting scent. It reminds me of a rotting flesh mixed with the odor of yrch. on the battlefield. The smell is disgusting but strangely I grow used to it after the days we have spent here. There is little doubt in my mind that we will need to bath several times to remove the scent from our skin and clothing. Inside the tavern, I watch several humans at various contests. Once such contest is the tossing of a small weapon against a target. How strange that our own weapons were taken at the gate, yet their residence are permitted their use in their taverns. I watch for long hours until finally I am noticed and they offer these weapons to me to toss. Darts are what I believe they called them. The darts are similar to my arrows, though the launching is simplified. I toss them well, and my aim is true and I strike the target 6 times over. The noise the humans and dwarves make at this accomplishment is strange. Some seem please whilst others unhappy, and I notice the exchange of currency. I am encouraged to show my skill once more, and again the humans and dwarves exchange currency. How odd. Again I am reminded that I need to learn the language of these folk.
	28 Iavas 3026 I find myself at the docks this day at the break of day and I see for the first time what brings the humans to settle here. To the west I see the inky blackness that I know to be Mirkwood, to the north great snow toped peeks of the Dwarves mountains where the dragon Smaug once resided, but it is the lake at sunrise which catches my attention. The first hint of light and the lake comes alive in a brilliant show of twinkling glory. Reds, yellows, blues, and greens, sparkle off the water surface and for a few moments as the sun rises I feel as if I look over a field of gemstones. The very sight takes my breath away, and I find one thing in middle earth that just might compare with the light of Anor over our lands. I shall have to bring Lothlhant or possibly Seregwen here to obtain their opinion. For the day I choose to spend time in the library reading about this culture.
	29 Iavas 3026 I spend this day as I did the last. I am fortunate to have discovered a book about the Dale-Landers history and now read of these peoples short lives. So far, I find that these Laketown people have lead a harsh existence and I think now I understand why they live and act as they do. In the evening I once more find myself in the tavern and while I am contented to watch, I soon find myself once more practicing my skills with the dart. This time however I am offered several coins at the end of my time with the darts. I must find someone to explain why these humans exchange currency whilst I practice my targeting skills.
	30 Iavas 3026 I am growing lonely for the company of my fellows as all within the Royal Court present and those senior to me within the Order are in counsel. I know they are discussing whom among us is to be the negotiator with the leather trader. Myself I think that duty should fall to either Haldir or Erinstar, as they are the greatest among us. Some word should be heard soon I think and until then I shall continue to wander Laketown.
	31 Iavas 3026 The day is quiet, the night is not. In the late hours of the day I wander the streets, looking to the stars and enjoying the emptied streets. The humans waste hours of beauty whilst they sleep. I catch the scent of something burning and take measure to see that it's put out. Dwarfs! Such careless creatures! Creatures so easy to anger! I do my very best to help them and prevent a fire within the city and what do I get? A fist to the stomach! Nasty-short-hairy-creatures Dwarves are! Matters are only worse that the Knight stood me down when the creature attacked and foolish as it was, I attacked back. Stupid little creature, how dare he attack an elf! What embarrassment it would be to let this thing be permitted to attack unchallenged! Several attempts were made by both Dwarf and myself and only on the third attempt do we land blows. All my trials with the longbow do me no good in hand to hand combat. Between dodging the Knight and dodging the Dwarfs blows I find that my abilities are poor. Just as suddenly as the fight begins it comes to an end. The Knight Veteran steps out of the Tavern and both he and the Knight capture my arms. And to make matters worse the Dwarf is captured by the Royal Herald. It matters not that I was attacked first for all my hard work ends in shame! The Veteran is angry at both myself and the Knight. Too angry considering the circumstances, which he seems to care nothing about. Wouldn't one of his status ask questions before becoming angry! All my work within the order is surely lost. Then, as the Knight leads me away to return to the embassy the Herald speaks and while I expected something unfavorable due to our previous encounter, his words are the opposite. This day ends with much to think about and many worries to consider.
	32 Iavas 3026 Today I begin to develop a strong dislike and distrust of the Knight Veteran as he unleashes harsh words upon me. So I couldn't defend myself against a rabid kitten eh? Is it not his responsibility to see that I receive the appropriate training? How am I to realistically shun any hostilities. I am not to fight so what then? Make every attempt to avoid them and then when all else fails allow them to attack me without challenge? I ask myself honestly if the Dwarf would have ceased his attack and I find without question that he would not have. How very little the Veteran considers the safety of those under his charge. Few witnessed the incident as most who dwelled within the city were tucked unaware in their beds. If in fact I hindered the mission in any way I would without question sacrifice my own well being without question, but the hour in which it took place and those involved reject the thought that the mission was harmed. Still the Veteran's words sting deeply and I am left to wonder if I offer any service to the Guard. This is the second time on this trip in which I am on the receiving end of a shape tongue lashing at me for my actions or words. I work my way to the front windows of the embassy to watch Anor dip into the western sky. The injuries received at the hands of the Dwarf pain me but I do not complain for the discomfort anchors me to my thoughts. I truly wish to understand what caused the incident the night before. As I sit alone whilst others are locked in counsel I am approached by the Banneret Mia. She kindly heals my ills and offers soft and gentle words which ease my mind greatly. She is a gem amongst our people. I have gained understanding of what caused the incident and if not for the trouble I have gotten myself into it would be laughable. Smoking weed intentionally, how very odd. In all my long years I've never heard of such a thing. I set it in my mind that I must find this dwarf and offer an apology for my lack of understanding for if I had realized that they merely were partaking of a custom of smoking plants I surely would not have errored.
	33 Iavas 3026 Again I sit along in the front hall of the embassy contemplating my situation. I miss the company of others and it is my hopes that the anger towards me will soon lessen so I may once more go forth into the city to explore and learn of their ways. Negotiations should begin tomorrow and still no word as to who is to represent us as a negotiator.
	34 Iavas 3026 The negotiations are conducted by the Royal Herald and the trade deal is struck. I am not overly pleased with the comments of the Courier for the information I provide is in my opinion much more than merely another opinion. Surely she nor any within the Royal Court know leather and the steps of its production as we within the Order do. Still it seems as if the Herald takes my and the Knights counsel, and for that I am pleased. I am not overly pleased with the price agreed upon as the product is as of yet unfinished for our uses, but the deal has been struck. We pay 9000 copper pennys per pound. I am disappointed that we could not have liberated the pony which hauled the cart, but words of going home sing in my ear and although I pitty the poor creature my desire to leave is great.
	35 Iavas 3026 This day begins on a wonderful note. I step down from my room and as I reach the bottom of the stairs I overhear the most joyous news. Prefect Galindrion is now to be known as Counsel Galindrion. I think this new title is well deserved and I further feel that he will be an asset to the Royal Court. Later in the day I happened upon a Sindarin speaking Dwarf. I passed along my apology for my mistake the past night. As a curious note, I spend time with Knight Seregwen in the Gaming Hall.
	36 Iavas 3026 It rains this day and I spend the hours with the book borrowed from the human's library. Again I am thankful for that they store books in my language.
	37 Iavas 3026 The good Knight Seregwen provided me with a discussion about the longbow. She wisely felt the issue important even though we were without our weapons. I would be pleased to have half her knowledge one day.
	38 Iavas 3026 I spend this day exercising our steeds and caring for their needs. My thoughts turn to the horse burdened with the wagon filled with leather. The poor creature will not I fear live a long life. I am saddened by this and find myself frustrated that I can do nothing to ease it's pain.
	39 Iavas 3026 I manage to convince Lothlhant to visit the docks of this city at sunrise. The company is fair and the conversation pleasant. Truly a bright spot in this day.
	40 Iavas 3026 We are anxious to return home, and this day the company of nine spends the day in silent preparation for the journey.
	41 Iavas 3026 I spend this day preparing the horses for the burden in which they will bear along our journey home. They are well rested and I am confident that they are ready for the task ahead.
	42 Iavas 3026 The contests at the gaming hall continue to perplex me. The Counselor Galindrion attempts to impart some understanding over the practice. Still, I find no skill or talent in these games even if I leave the halls with many gold and silver coins for my effort. Possibly these trinkets will make an interesting gift for my friends and family at home. Some of the coins will be used to buy the Royal Herald Calriel the wine she enjoys so well.
	43 Iavas 3026 The trade is done, but not without incident. Words are passed between the Herald and the human's and even the Counselor offers words in which I suspect are unkind. By their actions alone, I find myself detesting these of the second born. All life is a precious thing and yet they abuse their beasts and find no remorse in their loss. As we met the trader this day we watched in horror as the wagon of leather was driven in under threat of whip. The horse spooked and a dog was killed. Still common elf sense reined and the trade was complete.
	44 Iavas 3026 We prepare to leave! From first light to well into darkness I work with Lothlhant to prepare the horses and our purchase for the trip home. We take care to conceal the leather under several cloaks. This matters little over the next few days but when we pass through Beorning it will be important. Beornings do not appreciate the use of leather and we've no wish to offend them.
	45 Iavas 3026 We leave behind the city of men behind us and set forth Northwest to the lands of our kindred. We travel in silence and I believe we all realize the difficulties laying ahead in our path. My own concerns lay past Beorning and to the Misties as the yrch who spotted us as we approached Mirkwood will surely be waiting for our return.
	46 Iavas 3026 The plains of the Dale-lands are vast and easy to travel. We make good time this day. The road is barren and nothing is seen save a few rabbits and birds. It is strange to be in a place so void of life.
	47 Iavas 3026 Mirkwood looms before us and again we travel swiftly over the open grasslands. By nightfall we will leave these lands behind. I have a fondness for the trees, but something looms within these woods which sets me ill at ease
	48 Iavas 3026 We enter the dark Mirkwood this day and travel Northwest. There are odd patches where all grow silent and at times I feel we are being watched. I suspect we are being watch, not based upon this feeling but due to the experience we had on our way to the Dale-Lands.
	49 Iavas 3026 Our arrival in Amon-Thranduil is a quiet one. We are welcomed, but left to our own devices with only a warning to remain within the established borders or face the danger of the spiders within Mirkwood which exist to protect these people. I wander alone for hours on end until I come upon a elleth gathering leaves. I speak briefly with her and though I did not speak it I found her actions odd.
	50 Iavas 3026 Well needed rest I take this day. I spend the day along the shore of the lake and several hours soaking in the natural hot springs. As I lounged in the hot springs, I realized that it had been many days since last I did something for the sake of enjoyment. How easy it is to fall into duty and forget the simple relaxing things in life.
	51 Iavas 3026 I grow weary of this place despite the kindness shown by the elves of Amon-Thranduil. I long for the comforting feeling of the Golden Wood. I meet with several elleth in the wood and we discuss riddles and song. A song is sung and my heart if filled with greater sadness and longing for home. Thankfully Galindrion came upon us and I took the opportunity to depart. Once leaving the group I walked alone in the rain to clear my head of melancholy thoughts.
	52 Iavas 3026 still no word from the King of Amon-Thranduil. Several within my group seem disturbed but this. In a way I too feel offended, not for myself but for my seniors. I speak not of my thoughts for no good would come of it. I overhear a conversation that the Kings son, Prince Legolas is away on a hunting party. I wonder if this was planned or a mere coincidence.
	1 Orenidh 3026 Such wonders of food and entertainment are set out in our honor! We gladly share the feast with our kindred, though some within our party do not attend. However wonderful the offerings, they are made bitter by the absence of their King who has oddly kept his distance from us. For one of my station within the Order I find the gathering uncomfortable. With little comment made, I note that the Counselor Galindrion and the Knight-Banneret Mia seem well at home in the crowd. I am impressed by the experience I see displayed by those within my group.
	2 Orenidh 3026 I walk among the trees, enjoying the colors of autumn. If I close my eyes I can imagine the golden color of the leaves at home. Amon-Thranduil is beautiful, of that there is no argument, but still it is not home.
	3 Orenidh 3026 I feel anxious this day as the time of departure nears. There are long days ahead, but with each breath we draw closer to home.
	1 Firith 3026 We depart Amon-Thranduil soon, and this day as I begin preparations I come upon Erinstar and Seregwen in conversation. Invited to rest awhile with them I learn that the Royal Herald has kin in Amon-Thranduil and that Knight Seregwen has no knowledge of her family. It is strange to learn such things but it does not change my opinion of them. My respect grows daily. Later that day as I finish packing the sacks to be loaded upon the horses, several of this land visit for conversation and farewell. A scribe gives me a song written for us. One day when the issues are not so urgent, I would like to return to visit again.
	2 Firith 3026 We travel Mirkwood under the guidance of two from Amon-Thranduil. There are hordes of spiders through out these trees as a means of protection. I look right and left and find that there are many blind paths which I can see would confuse one unaware of the ploy. I am grateful for those who lead us as our safety means the survival of our home lands.
	3 Firith 3026 We reach the Open Plains and now travel westward. Our pace is swift and I can see that all within the company keep their eyes sweeping over the grasses. It was not that long ago that yruk wandered these plains.
	4 Firith 3026 The Beorning Village is to the west of us now and we make camp with the intent to travel to the westren side on the morrow. I am weary, but I've animals to attend to so I speak not of my weariness. The horses have kept our pace fast and they have yet to object to the burdens they bear.
	5 Firith 3026 We take rest this day and plan to do so for several days. Our journey is a long one and it seem the toll it has taken is a need to rest more often. While we are a people with long endurance, it has been many days we've traveled from home and we grow weary.
	6 Firith 3026 Something is amiss between the Banneret and the Veteran. I find myself wondering if their burdens grow heavy upon their shoulders.
	7 Firith 3026 I watch the Veteran Liir and take note of all. My eyes open as things I knew nothing about him are revealing themselfs to eyes who are now open. I look back on my earlier writings in wonder. Have I grown this much in the time we've traveled?
	8 Firith 3026 For a group so small it is a wonder how we managed to remain apart this day. Friendships have formed along this trip, but there are times such as today in which privacy is needed.
	9 Firith 3026 An odd meeting occurred this day. Human came upon us and while the Banneret spoke with one another came screaming and waving her arms as would a dwarf in battle, I gave fair warning with a single arrow shot in her path, the humans took offense. How foolish they are to think they would approach in such a manner without challenge. The Counselor also is disturbed, but then he often thinks not of his safety but of political impact. I think this strange, but then I am not of the Royal Court and he is free to speak his thoughts due to the safety that we of the Order provide.
	10 Firith 3026 I look upon the Veteran in a new light as my understanding of responsibility grows. What burden he must bear upon his shoulders! When facing his anger in the Dale-Land city I was not looking from his point of view.....what I now know to be the correct point of view. If I am fortunate I will rise in skill and knowledge such as he has.
	11 Firith 3026 A greater focus is now placed upon the knowledge that the Banneret and the Veteran hold. It is my greatest hope that we will not be in need of what they both know.
	12 Firith 3026 We move westward and this day sees little time. I only note that this day passes without incident.
	13 Firith 3026 We break for camp at the edge of the Anduin River at nightfall. The crossing is hazardous and must be done by daylight. In the deep of night, a human comes and looks to be attempting to steal our horses. I am fortunate that the scene was no more than a misunderstanding for I rested under cover with not but my breeches. It is comical now when I look back upon the scene as I took pause whilst the Royal Herald rushed out half clothed and ill prepared. From the reactions received by his entrance, he will forever be remembered as the ellon who need not carry a weapon into any battle in which females are present. No help was needed so I returned to my rest....clothed this time in expectation of any further visits.
	14 Firith 3026 We move westward. There is little time to rest. No incidents occur. For this I am thankful.
	15 Firith 3026 We turn south and set foot upon our last portion of our journey.
	16 Firith 3026 There is signs of orc, fresh tracks that can be no more than a few hours old. According to the Banneret, Liir has been doing extra patrols. I am thankful that the Veteran is with us.
	17 Firith 3026 Yrch are spotted this day, and the urgency to reach home grows. We move swift and silent, but still we are followed.
	18 Firith 3026 We are followed. Each step, each breath, mingles with that of orc. The threat is there, and yet they linger just outside our reach. The borders of our home nears and if we can reach them swiftly the threat will be no more.
	19 Firith 3026 The quest to bring leather back to Lorien is done, though our last steps home were not without conflict. A great battle is fought! If not for the presence of the Banneret, Veteran, Royal Herald, and the Counseler, all would be lost. Our quest for leather is at an end and we have achieved our goal.

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