================== Eldarin Calendar <in Sindarin> ===================
IC time is: Before Dawn < About 4:33 AM >
IC day is: Oranor <Sun-day>
IC date is: 29 Echuir <Stirring>
Moon phase: Full <HIDDEN>
Earendil: Gil-Estel is not visible.
IC year is: Loa 15 o Yen 22, Nelandran o Endor <TA 3039>
----------------------------------------------------------------------
RL time: Fri Feb 02 10:11:16 2007
=====================================================================
Hall of the Crafters
As you ascend the final few steps of the spiral stair and step upon the talan, you realize that, every bit as massive as the mallorn that supports it, the Hall of the Crafters is truly a marvel. The wide flet of smooth, well-trodden oak spreads about the lower canopy of the tree. Near the trunk of the tree sits a large, octagonal table of gold-inlayed cherry with chairs pulled around. Upon the table is a large silver salver holding a crystal decanter surrounded by ceramic wine mugs. To the rear of the talan, and partially isolated by long, heavy tapestries suspended from the branches above, sits a large desk with a high-backed chair, a cabinet with many small shelves for papers and reports, and a few smaller chairs for discussions.

To the front of the main area of the talan are padded, and in some cases covered, display cabinets filled with a great variety of goods and products produced by the crafters.

Participants:
Galharth
Legarwin
=====================================================================

In the wee hours of early morn, a quiet stillness lays over the golden wood. With the Lady gone, it almost seems as if nature holds it's breath in anticipation for her return. No breeze blows, and yet a delicate fragrance of blossoms mingle with the heady scents of newly tanned leathers, and an ever burning forge. Here within the Halls of the Crafters, the aura of stillness fades upon entrance as movement is ever present by one or more artesian.

On this day, Galharth bends over a brilliant white robe, carefully fixing a tiny pearl bead to the hem of the garment. As the last stitch is sewn, the ellon sits back and gently runs a hand over the detailed medley of crystal and pearl fixed upon the silky sea of finely made fabric. The corner of the clothier's mouth turns upwards as he inspects his work. "I daresay that both bride and groom will be most pleased with the lady's gown. Rising to his feet, he lifts the gown and shakes it gently from it's folded position upon the table. "Done," he says aloud.

Yes, within the Hall of the Crafters the quiet din that holds the Woods in silence is broken particularly by the resounding clang of steel on steel. Yet, this sound fades giving the impression that the smith at work had finished his task. Moments pass before Legarwin, covered in soot and still wearing his leather apron, appears from the Smithy. His sapphire gaze turns from the newly forged longsword in his hand to those present. As his eyes take in the projects at hand, his stare becomes focused upon the dress. Slowly the Commander moves towards the ellon who appears to have crafted the item. Within gentle earshot, the Aderthad comments, "Such a wonderous gift you have created, mellon."

Lifting his gaze to Commander as he enters, the clothier's smile broadens as he glances from the sword to the gown. "One that will soon be worn during an exchange of vows leading to an eternal bonding. It has done my heart good to create something for such an occasion" Galharth replies as he neatly folds the garment. "It seems we've each been busy in these quiet hours," he adds with a nod towards the sword.

Sitting the folded gown upon the table, the clothier arches his back to relieve tension built up over the past hours. The ellon's smile remains as he inspects the weapon held within Legarwin's grasp. "Does that indicate a new member to the Order, or perhaps a replacement made for someone in need?" he asks with a touch of curiosity.

"And may those who exchange vows be blessed with the grace of Iluvatar," adds Legarwin in response to the explanation of the gown before answering the inquiry. "Yes, this blade shall be presented to one though I shall not make mention to whom." The long fingers of the ellon pass from hilt to point lightly touching the runes that have been engraved upon the weapon in a flowing script. "Will you also be crafting the clothing of the ellon?"

"The ellon's clothing is done." Galharth replies. "While the designs are unified, the gown was more complicated due to the additional fabric of the skirt." A light almost seems to sparkle within the ellon's eyes, hinting as to how pleased the clothier is about the work complete. "Between the clothing for the wedding party, and the repairs to the Lady Mia's gowns, I've had much to do of late." He pauses a moment and traces the intricate design facing upwards upon the folded fabric. "Keeping busy has been good, for I've missed several who traveled to Rivendell over the past weeks? I look forward to the feasts that will welcome them back."

"Aye, and a great feast it shall be. Always comforting was it to reach the boughs of the mellyrn after long travel. And, I wonder now, what competitions had taken place that our kin had won." Legarwin's gaze grows distant as he appears to stare not at the ellon but past, into a void that only his mind can see while continuing, "as well as what new tales they have learned from ages past."

With a single nod, the clothier offers agreement to the Commander's first words. "Whatever has been won or learned, will soon be shared for all to celebrate." Galharth says a short time after his nod. "I myself had considered going, but felt obligated to complete the wedding trousseau." he adds with a glance towards the gown. "Sometimes duty outshines personal desire." A light shrug of his shoulders adds emphasis to his words. "But what can be done but to enjoy that which we do."

Words fall silent for only an instant before Galharth speaks again. "Do you know when the group is to return from Rivendell?"

Legarwin nods slowly in understanding at the explanation from the clothier before adding, "But you shall have other chances to partake in the congress and enjoy the merriment." Only a contemplative hum is given in answer to the question before the Commander states, "I do not know when they shall return for I do not know the path they take. I, myself have traveled between here and the Valley and it has taken some weeks depending on the speed of the company. If all adds up well, then they shall be here within a few weeks time."

Gathering up the gown, Galharth nods. "Then I'm well ahead of schedule. Perhaps I'll seek out those who plan the welcoming back events and offer my services should they be required." The clothier pauses a moment and looks up at the Commander. "If you're interested, I can keep you advised of any planned events."

"I would greatly appreciate such information for I shall place sentinels on watch." Legarwin then goes silent taking notice to the ellon gathering his things up.

Offering another nod, Galharth lifts a hand in a friendly gesture. "If not in person, I will send word. Till then, I've a number of tasks to complete and I must bid you farewell." With those simple words, the clothier draws the folded gown near and departs, heading in the direction of the weavers talan.