Fiesty and Talia Tease the Carper Seller

Fiesty.Lotus: “So Daniella, How ya doin?”

Daniella the Carpet Seller: “I am fine, small Hobbit.”

Fiesty.Lotus:  “I was wonderin if yer got any fancy rugs?”

Daniella the Carpet Seller: “I have many fine carpets mam.”

Talia Sunsong: “Do you sell Fae carpets?”

Fiesty.Lotus touches the topmost rug and turns to see Fae Talia.

Fiesty.Lotus: “Oh, Greetins Fae Talia.”

Talia Sunsong:  “Greetings Cook Fiesty.”

Fiesty.Lotus: “These rugs are kinda nice- but some seem ter be a little frayed.”

Daniella the Carpet Seller: “They are the finest rugs around.”

Talia Sunsong: “These are pretty rugs. (picks at thread)  What happens if I pull this thread?”

Daniella Carpet Seller looks terrified.

Daniella the Carpet Seller: “Oh no Lady - do not do that!”

Fiesty and TaliaTease the Carpet Seller

Talia Sunsong: “Why?” (Tugs a little on thread)

The rug begins unraveling.

Talia Sunsong: “Oh see it unravels. It must be built wrong.” (pulls on thread more)

Daniella the Carpet Seller: “No, No do not do that!”

Daniella the Carpet Seller panics and grabs the rug.

Talia Sunsong: “Hmmmm well I won't make that rug into a flying carpet.”

The rug unravels more and more.

Talia Sunsong holds end of thread. "Maybe I could use this to make a new skirt?”

Daniella the Carpet Seller grabs the rug and tries to yank it from the Fae's hands.

Fiesty Lotus: “You could probably do that - but it might be a bit of work.”

Talia Sunsong: "This needs fixed. Do you have pine sap? That could glue it." (Looks for pine tree)

Unraveling the Carpet

Fiesty.Lotus: “Oh Fae Talia, at me stall, um, I got some more of that honey cake.”

Talia Sunsong: "I'll stick pine sap in the rug to keep the thread in."

Fiesty.Lotus: “At me stall….”

Talia Sunsong: "Honey cake? Yumm."

Fiesty.Lotus: “I think we should let this fine Carpet Seller fix the carpet.”

Talia Sunsong wanders over to the food.

Fiesty.Lotus smiles at Daniella.

Fiesty.Lotus: “I will get me carpet later.”

Talia Sunsong: sings "Food, food, glorious food."

Daniella the Carpet Seller stands twitching, holding the carpet.

Fiesty.Lotus: “Oh yes, I made a batch of Baklava fer you.”

Talia Sunsong: "Oh goody, goody, goody!" (moves closer)

Fiesty.Lotus pulls the plate - oozing with honey toward Fae Talia.

Talia Sunsong holds out hands eagerly.

Talia Sunsong: "Look at that golden honey."

Fiesty.Lotus: “Yes- Shire bees are very happy- they live on lavender and barley flowers.”

Talia Sunsong: “Lavender honey, oh, it will calm me.”

Fiesty.Lotus eyes glow at the thought.

Talia Sunsong: “Lavender matches my hair stick.”

Fiesty.Lotus: “Yes- That is true.”

Talia Sunsong: (preens hair, pushing flowering stick deeper into the thick hair)

Talia.Sunsong: "The birds are still landing on my hair."

Fiesty Lotus: “Hmm, Well - they trust you then.”

Fiesty Lotus: “Though the remainder may be a little sticky.”

Talia.Sunsong: "True, I don't eat them like the cats do. Although I do admire cat philosophy, sleep, eat play."

Talia.Sunsong: "I live by that credo."

Winter Gets his Farm

The air was crisp and the morning light just filtering over the Brandy Mountains as Fiesty sat on a cart filled to bursting with supplies to take to Bree. Berilac fussed with his list as his assistants scurried about filling the cart. He checked another item. “Now we got most of it, there be the syrup fer the bakery and some corn mash fer the Tavern. Berilac eyed the cart and says to an assistant “Did you get those seeds that Anny May asked for?” The boy answered “Yessir,” and went off to get the last item.

Fiesty sat patiently through all the bustle, waiting for Winter Silversmith to arrive. Her eyes got big as she realized that the boy was bringing a rocking chair to pile on the great pile. She murmured “Hope the poor pony don’t have a heart attack.”

Fiesty and Winter Begin the Journey

Berilac nodded at the chair and made a final check. “Now Druid Fiesty, you take care of these goods, slow down on the curves and get someone to rub the pony down when yer get there.” Fiesty’s lip twitched but she answered “I surely will Berilac.”

Presently Winter Silversmith arrived, leading his horse toward the mountain pass.

Fiesty Lotus: “Greetins Winter”

Winter Silversmith: “Greetings Fiesty.”

Fiesty Lotus: “Yer ready fer the trip?”

Winter Silversmith: “I am”

Fiesty Lotus: “Well, Berilac- Is everything all ready?”

Berilac: “Yes Druid Fiesty. Everything is in order.”

Fiesty Lotus: “Well, let's get started then. Daylight is a comin.”

Winter Silversmith:” Aye yes, lead the way.”

Fiesty, Lord Silversmith and Berilac’s assistant travel the mountain path and leave the boy in the town of Bree to empty the cart. Druid Fiesty and Lord Silversmith then walked a short way to Farmer Maggot’s Farm.

Fiesty and Winter Meet Farmer Maggot

Farmer Maggot: “Greetings Druid Fiesty. Good to see you again.”

Fiesty Lotus: “Greetings to you Farmer Maggot. You are looking well.”

Farmer Maggot: “I am that Druid Fiesty.”

Farmer Maggot looks at the stranger.

Winter Silversmith nods to the farmer and looks at Fiesty

Fiesty Lotus: “Oh yes Farmer Maggot, this be my friend Lord Winter Silversmith.”

Farmer Maggot: “Good to meet you sir.”

Winter Silversmith: “And you sir.”

Fiesty Lotus: “Lord Winter is looking for farmland.”

Farmer Maggot: “Oh?  I am looking to sell me farm.”

Winter Silversmith: “Then I have come to the right place.”

Winter Silversmith:” Yes, I am homeless after the fires in the Shadowlands.”

Farmer Maggot: “Homeless yer say?”

Farmer Maggot: “Well.” Farmer Maggot scratches his beard.

Farmer Maggot looks closely at the stranger and sees a well-dressed gentleman.

Winter Silversmith: “How much would you be wanting for this farm?”

Farmer Maggot: “I ain't got around to figuring that out yet. I been hankering on going traveling with my son before I get too old.”

Winter Silversmith: “Travel is good; I have done much of that in my near century now.”

Farmer Maggot:” I kin show you around if you like?”

Winter Silversmith: “Sure I would like that”.

Farmer Maggot: “Alright I will show you the barn.”

Winter Silversmith:” Lead on.”

The three, followed by the hound, walk around the house to a great barn.

Checking Out the Barn

Farmer Maggot: “Here is the barn, tackle, the works.”

Winter Silversmith ponders as he looks at the supplies.

Winter Silversmith:” It is a decent barn you have here Farmer.”

Farmer Maggot: “Yes, my friends helped me raise it.”

Winter Silversmith: “Solid foundation.”

Farmer Maggot: “I got good fields and several work horses, 5 cows and a batch of chickens.”

Winter Silversmith: “And are any of the cows good for milking?”

Farmer Maggot: “Two are good; one has a calf on the way.”

Winter Silversmith:  “Ah excellent.”

Winter Silversmith:  “I do like fresh milk with my breakfast.”

 Farmer Maggot looks a little nervous, "Like I said, I ain't added it up yet...”

Fiesty Lotus smiles encouragingly at the farmer.

Winter Silversmith: Well, the land could use some working and the grass needs a trim but it is a nice spot here.

Farmer Maggot: “The fields are good - I got a few in rotation.”

Winter Silversmith: “I love the longer seasons here.”

Farmer Maggot: “Yes, perfect for two seasons of greens.”

Winter Silversmith: “Well it is a nice farm indeed I am willing to pay its worth today.”

Farmer Maggot:”Ah!” Farmer Maggot looks startled.  “What would that be?”

Winter Silversmith reaches inside his coat pocket.

Winter Silversmith:” I have this letter here. It should be a fair offering for the land and all that is here.”

Winter Silversmith hands the letter to the farmer.

Farmer Maggot takes the letter and reads it.

Farmer Maggot’s mouth falls open as he stares at the amount.

Winter Silversmith:” Is that a fair offering Farmer?”

Farmer Maggot silently gives the letter to Druid Fiesty.

Winter Silversmith: “Like I said I need a home and this one is perfect.”

Fiesty Lotus reads the letter and checks the seal. Her eyes go wide.

Fiesty Lotus:” This be a real letter of exchange Farmer Maggot - I will vouch for the seal.”

The Deal is Done

Winter Silversmith: “I am not really one for haggling on value.”

Farmer Maggot: “Are you sure that sum is what you want to give me?”

Winter Silversmith: “Aye, it should be enough; I was told it would suffice.”

Farmer Maggot: wordlessly retrieves the letter from Druid Fiesty and stutters. "This should be enough."

Winter Silversmith: “Good, how long till I can move in?”

Winter Silversmith glances around the farm noting the various livestock and buildings

Winter Silversmith: “Hmm yes.”

Farmer Maggot: smiles widely." I kin be gone by next week. All I need to do is pack my things."

Winter Silversmith: “Then next week it is. Do we have a deal then for your farm?”

Farmer Maggot: “Aye we do, as Druid Fiesty vouches for the letter. I will shake on it.”

Winter Silversmith raises his hand to the Farmer to shake upon the deal.

Farmer Maggot shakes Winter Silversmith's hand

Winter Silversmith: Then so it be done.

Winter Silversmith smiles.

Fiesty Lotus smiles. "Shall we go Lord Winter?"

Winter Silversmith: “Yes it is a good time for ale I think.”

Samhain 2016 in the New River Lands

The Druids Begin the Ceremony

Special Magic: and tis good to see you Saphira and Can tis good to see you too

Winter Silversmith: I'll stand over there by the water

Fiesty Lotus: Greetins Fae Talia

Fitheach Eun: Bright blessings

Saphira Mistwalker hisses in Draconic, "Tiichia Erthnetorai Sulta", "Blessed Samhain."

Fiesty Lotus shivers

Talia.Sunsong: looks for polka dotted skin on Lady Saph

Fitheach Eun looks around and smiles at all our friends

Can Wobbit: says quietly "Blessed Samhain"

Fiesty Lotus: well, shall we begin?

 

Archdruid Fiesty

Fiesty Lotus: This is the night when the gateway between

our world and the spirit world is thinnest.

Tonight is a night to call out those who came before.

Tonight we honor our ancestors

Fitheach Eun: The past must be cleansed away, For the future to start

The veil is at its thinnest

We walk between the worlds; let us beseech the elements to walk with us

Fiesty Lotus turns to North

I honor and welcome the Earth with an offering of ground wheat

Talia.Sunsong: Hail and be welcome

Fiesty Lotus scatters the ground wheat on the earth

Earth, that stands beneath our feet, accept our offering!

You grow all around us, you tower above us.

Spirits of the Earth, we offer you this gift from what you have given us

Share with us comfort, knowledge and blessing.

Stand together with us and help us be strong

Archdruid Fitheach

Fitheach Eun turns to the west

I honor and welcome Water with an offering of cider

Fitheach Eun pours the cider onto the ground

Water that flows and streams beneath all beings accept our offering!

You bring life and growth to all that lives

Spirits of the Waters, we offer you this gift from what you have given us

Let us know the depths within ourselves; the source of all wisdom

Stand together with us and flow within us!

Talia.Sunsong: Hail Water and be welcome

Ambassador Saphira

Fiesty Lotus turns to the South

I honor and welcome Fire with an offering of ash

Fiesty Lotus scatters the ash

Fire that consumes and transforms; accept our offering!

You bring the light and warmth of all who have gone before

Spirits of the Fire we offer you this gift from what you have given us

Let your flames warm our spirits and our lives.

Stand with us and burn within us!

Fae Talia

Fitheach Eun turns to the East

I honor and welcome air with an offering of feathers

Fitheach Eun fans the air with the feathers

Air that gives us breath and spirit; accept our offering!

Carrier of visions; supporter of all life

Spirits of the Air we offer you this gift from what you have given us

Let your pure winds swirl and eddy around us

Stand with us and carry us up!

Forester Can

Fiesty Lotus: "This is the night when the gateway between

our world and the spirit world is thinnest.

Tonight is a night to call out those who came before.

Tonight we honor our ancestors.

Spirits of our fathers and mothers, I call to you, and welcome you to join me for this night.

Fiesty Lotus: You watch over us always, protecting and guiding us.

Tonight we thank you.

Your blood runs our our veins,

your spirit is in our hearts,

and your memories are in our soul.

Special Magic of Eire

"Tonight we celebrate Samhain.

It is the end of the harvest, the last days of summer,

and the cold nights wait on the other side for us.

The bounty of our labor, the abundance of the harvest,

the success of the hunt, all lies before us.

We thank the earth for all it has given us this season,

and yet we look forward to winter,

a time of sacred darkness

Fiesty Lotus sprinkles the rich ceremonial wine

Summer is gone, winter is coming. We have cared for our friends and neighbors and have welcomed all good creatures into our community,

We have gathered everyone here to be thankful for our bounty and to welcome the regeneration of the earth. We have gathered the harvest. Now it is at its end.

Fitheach Eun takes her wine and sprinkles it on the ground

Summer is gone, winter is coming. We have raised our livestock and tended the creatures in our care

We have tended our herbs and made our potions.  Now it is at its end.

Fiesty Lotus sprinkles the rich ceremonial wine

Summer is gone, winter is coming. We have planted and we have watched the garden grow, we have weeded, and we have gathered the harvest. Now it is at its end.

Fitheach Eun sprinkles the rich ceremonial wine 

Summer is gone, winter is coming. We have planned and built our homes.

We have enjoyed all the changes of the seasons of growing. Now it is at its end

The Ceremony

Fitheach Eun: Now is the time for individual offerings, if there are any among us who would like to make a contribution, be it prayer, song, poem, or story, you may do this now.

Talia.Sunsong: May all here achieve their dreams with ease.

Can Wobbit: takes a slow step forwards

Can Wobbit: I ask you all that are gathered here at the day where the veil is thinnest to bend your thoughts towards the other side, and send greetings to all those who have left us this year, in whatever world this has been

Fiesty Lotus nods

Fitheach Eun nods slowly

Can Wobbit: steps back again

Talia.Sunsong: bends thoughts as Can asks

Fitheach Eun: Would anyone else care to speak?

Fitheach Eun: Please take a torch if you do not have one

Fitheach Eun lights her torch from the fire

The time of light is ending; the time of darkness begins now.

The fire that has sustained us through the light cannot hold against the dark to come

 

Fires on the Altar

Fitheach Eun: We honor the fire of the seasons past and light our torches from it to brighten our way in the dark days.

Fitheach Eun: Please light your torches from this sacred fire

Fitheach Eun extinguishes the old fire

Fitheach Eun uses the torch to light the new fire

Can Wobbit: lights his torch

Talia.Sunsong: flits forward and sticks her torch in the new fire

Fitheach Eun: Let us kindle a new flame to see us through until the light comes again.

Saphira Mistwalker touches her torch to the fire and smiles as it springs alight

Drum Circle After the Ceremony

Fitheach Eun looks around at all gathered and smiles

The circle is closed; the season of light has ended and the dark holds sway.

Go all in peace and light until we meet again.

Talia.Sunsong: Peace and light

Special Magic: smiles "Thank you for allowing me to enjoy this festival I have not been included in anything of this sort since 2012  so Thank you for this!"

Saphira Mistwalker: Tiichia Qe (Blessed Be)

Fiesty Lotus: Blessed Be

Fitheach Eun: We were most glad to have you here Special

Fitheach Eun: Bright Blessings

Can Wobbit: bows slightly and thanks the druids for this lovely ceremony

Fiesty Lotus: Thank you for your memorial Can

Talia.Sunsong: plays with pretty torch and almost sets her hat on fire

Fitheach Eun: We hope to see you all again for Yule

Winter Acquires the Funds

A Few Nights Ago In The Town Of Mayfield...

The room was well lit, except in the corners where thieves and assassins usually met to settle their unlawful affairs. Winter Silversmith leaned back in his heavy but pleasantly padded oak chair against the corner wall of the Mouse & Lion Tavern in Mayfield. The candlelight danced on his face and around the table illuminating another person. A human female in her late seventies was seated across from Winter. She was dressed in traditional elder human garments with one exception. Around her neck was a beautiful silken scarf identifying her as, at least at one time, being of the gypsy culture.

The Tavern in Mayfield

“Your ama ('mother' in Basque) loved you very much” the woman said as she reached over and touched Winter’s arm gently with her wrinkled hand.

“I know Sara but she could have stood up to ‘The Baron’ and not let him send me away” Winter said in an anguished voice.

“The Baron… why do you insist on calling him that, he was your father” she said scolding Winter. “It is strange why you choose to ignore your geltokia ('station'), you choose to be a simple farmer, when with your lineage you could own grand regions of farmland”, Sara said as she looked questioningly at Winter.

Winter averted his gaze away from Sara “You know why” Winter said “And I have told you not to talk of it in public someone could hear you and that Euskal ('Basque') tongue of yours these are troubling times for Humans in these parts”. Winter paused for a moment to take a sip of his ale, licking his lips and letting the golden honey taste linger in his mouth before swallowing it down. “Besides, he was no father to me” Winter said as he glanced expectantly at the door coming into the Tavern. “You need to go; he will be here soon”.

“I never get to meet your lagun... I mean your ‘friends’” said Sara with a thick English accent “I hardly know who you are these days”.

“He is not a friend” Winter said nervously “please Sara you must leave” as he motioned for the door.

“Fine, I am leaving, agur ene anaia ('goodbye my brother')” Sara stood up and leaned over to give Winter a hug. Winter remained seated giving Sara a half hearted hug in return clearly preoccupied by his pending business. Sara looked hurt at first then gave a loving smile. In the years since she had reunited with her older brother she knew he was not one to show much emotion in public. This meeting clearly bothered Winter though and that had Sara worried for her brothers’ safety. She left the Tavern to calm his anxiety as best she could.

A few minutes passed before a man in a dark cloak entered the Tavern, walked across the room, and sat down opposite Winter. “Baron von Silversmith” the stranger said with a deep nod of his head.

“It is JUST Silversmith, NO von NO Baron, but you already know that Foster” Winter said sharply almost hissing at the man in clear disgust at hearing his title spoken aloud.

“Aye, that I do, I get a bit flustered in the presence of such fine royalty” Foster said in long drawn speech followed with another nod.

“Pfft” Winter spit out some of his ale “Royalty! Enough of such nonsense, Baron, pfft. We have business to discuss you and me” Winter said bluntly pushing the conversation back on the reason for this meeting.

 

Winter Listens

“Yes, yes, I have the letter you requested. He signed it just yesterday and I brought it to you personally as requested” Foster reached into his pocket to draw out the paper. Winter’s eyes darted around the room to make sure no one he knew was there and his sister had left the building. Foster handed Winter the folded letter. Winter took the letter and placed it in his vest pocket and took another drink of his ale.

“Are you not going to read it?” Foster asked.

“I am sure it is sufficient” Winter said as he emptied his mug “Please extend my thanks to the vicar for his charity” Winter chuckled mockingly.

Foster looked at Winter “You know he would do anything for you, he and your father were like brothers… oh if only you had known your brother Deven he was such a strong and honourable man before…If only you and your lady had been wed then you might be happier I think and had sons of your own”.

“Speak not of that vampire!” Winter spit toward the wall as if to expel any curse that might linger from the mention of his eldest brothers’ name. “And I know, ‘The Saint’ and ‘The Baron’” Winter jeered at the thought but appeared to ignore the latter mention of the lady as he stood up from his chair.

The tavern was beginning to fill up with people as the evening dragged on and it was time to head back to his campsite in the Shire. As he walked away he sighed and paused mid step “Does she speak poor of me?” Winter asked looking toward the bar.

“Kari is happy… wed with four strong sons she speaks poorly of no one – including you Baron, I mean m’Lord” said Foster.

Winter placed his right hand on his left vest pocket. He could feel his heart beat through the layers of wool and crinkled letter paper. With a deep breath he blinked the moisture from his tired eyes and left the Tavern into the night.

Refugees, Part 2

Odd Spot for a Tent, Sir

Talia.Sunsong tries an arrow in the bow and shoots at fish in water.

Fiesty Lotus shifts a little back

Saphira Mistwalker winces when the bow twangs and looks to see where the arrow went.

The arrow splashes into rock

Fiesty Lotus: “Last we heard you were livin on the edge of Shadowlands.”

Winter Silversmith: “I lost my ledge in a great fire; I barely escaped with my life.”

Talia.Sunsong: “How exciting.”

Saphira Mistwalker nods. "I did not see you over there, so I had hoped you escaped."

Winter Silversmith: Yes, I awoke one day to the smell of smoke and my boat was gone.

Fiesty Lotus: “It's a long way from there to the Shire.”

Fiesty Lotus: How did you cross the river then?

Winter Silversmith: “It is. Good thing I can swim.”

Fiesty Lotus: “Oh my!”

Saphira Mistwalker smiles. "Flying is better."

Winter Silversmith: “I swam, slowly and got ashore near the farm.”

Fiesty Lotus nods

Fiesty Lotus: “So, your flock- did they perish?”

Winter Silversmith: “I hope they escaped but they are not as good swimmers I fear.”

Talia.Sunsong:  “Did the cream giving animals survive?”

Winter Silversmith:  “I had sheep so no cream.”

Fiesty Lotus shakes her head but stands riveted at Winter’s tale.

Winter Silversmith:  “My dog was trapped over near the caves when the fires swept across the land, I do not know if he made it.”

Fiesty Lotus: “Oh that is sad.”

Saphira Mistwalker sighs. "I hope he got away."

Talia.Sunsong: “If I spot him when I'm flying I'll pick him up.”

Winter Silversmith: “Me too, Bear has been a most loyal companion.”

Saphira Mistwalker:  “I will keep an eye out for him; perhaps he fled north into Taibreamh.”

Winter Silversmith: “Perhaps, he is a smart one.”

Fiesty Lotus: “Yes- Taibreamh would not reject a dog.”

Winter Silversmith:  “Good.”

Fae Talia

Winter Silversmith looks at Talia Sunsong.

Winter Silversmith:  “I ramble, you are, fishing?”

Talia.Sunsong: ” I'm fishing with arrows.”

Winter Silversmith: “Oh that is quite a challenge.”

Saphira Mistwalker giggles. "Lady Talia wishes to learn bow. I fear for anyone near her line-of-fire."

Talia.Sunsong:  “I’m Danger Fae; I can take on a challenge.” (Strikes a pose)

Winter Silversmith laughs.

Talia.Sunsong:  “Twirls her bow and sings the "Danger Fae" theme song.”

Saphira Mistwalker shakes her head and whispers to Lady Fiesty, "are you sure she didn't hurt her head when she ran into that tree?"

Winter Silversmith: “ Tree? Ouch!”

Fiesty Lotus shakes her head. She whispers, "She be Fae- they can't be harmed unless yer blow em up"

Saphira Mistwalker nods and giggles.

Talia.Sunsong:  knocks on her head "I'm indestructible."

Winter Silversmith: “ Ah, I have very little experience with the Fae. We did meet once though I think, before, in RiverLands.”

Talia.Sunsong:  “I remember.” (Jumps up and down)

Winter Silversmith:  “Are there places to live here, perhaps to start a farm? I have been staying near the bridge in a small wood these past two nights.”

Fiesty Lotus: “Well- Most of the Riverlands folks are going over the mountain ter Bree.”

Saphira Mistwalker looks at Winter and then at Fiesty, "Perhaps he can find a place there to set up a farm?"

Winter Silversmith:  “Bree, I have never been. I kept to the Shadowlands and Riverlands and would catch a ship from Cheshire to Manitou.”

Fiesty Lotus: “Well, I do know a famer who be migratin to other parts.”

Saphira Mistwalker: Oh my, can you catch ship from the Brandyfields dock to Manitou?

Fiesty Lotus: “He would want a pretty penny fer his property.”

Fiesty Lotus: “ You be the first one askin so I could put in a good word fer ya.”

Winter Silversmith: Well, my lands in Manitou burned so I would be wanting to start a decent farm here, crops, sheep.”

Talia.Sunsong: “I will scout around for cream, I mean marauders.”

Winter Silversmith:  “Perhaps marauders bearing cream.” (Smiles)

Talia.Sunsong: “Fare well.”

Talia.Sunsong: waves and flies off.

Winter Silversmith waves to Talia

Saphira Mistwalker:  “Good even Lady Talia, and safe paths.”

Talia.Sunsong:  “Farewell folk I protect.”

Fiesty Lotus: Good night Fair Talia

Saphira Mistwalker shakes her head at "Danger Fae".

Saphira Mistwalker: I am afraid that fae is a danger alright, just not the way she thinks.

Fiesty Meets with Winter

Fiesty Lotus to Winter:  “I will have a talk with the farmer- perhaps we can come to an arrangement.”

Winter Silversmith: “Oh thank you. It would be nice to have a home again.”

Winter Silversmith: “To jump in to life can be an adventure.”

Saphira Mistwalker:  “Aye, that it is.”

Saphira Mistwalker: “I should be going as well; I have a bit of a flight back to Taibreamh and my cave.”

Saphira Mistwalker: “I hope you will find a place to start a farm Lord Winter.”

Winter Silversmith: “Great to see you again Saphira, so happy you did not perish in the fires.”

Saphira Mistwalker: Good even and warm winds to you both.

Winter Silversmith: “And to you Lady Saphira.”

Fiesty Lotus: “Good night Lady Saphira.”

With that Fiesty and Winter parted, agreeing to meet the next day.

Refugees, Part 1

It was three days since the Great Migration had started. Fiesty and her assistant Maisie stood waving at the latest batch of refugees as they began their trip across the Brandy Mountains to the hamlet of Bree. They were a hearty bunch and Fiesty thought they would fare well there. Many were left, elderly, sick and those who needed help to reach Brandyfields.

The Shire was humming with activity. Hobbits rushed about trying to feed the refugees.  Tents were put up in any available spot and the Hobbit households were full to the brim with Humans and Elves trying to not smack their heads on the rafters in the burrows.

Food Preparation at the Mill

The mill, the tavern, and the lighthouse were full of stewing and baking. The infirmary was full also.  The smoke and sulfur has affected many that lived close to the Shadowlands. There were the expected ills that might come from the rapid escape to the Shire; soreness, injuries and dehydration. But there was also a deep sense of depression that was now taking the place of the initial shock.

Mothers listlessly dandled their babies while the older children kept close by, fearfully watching the new environment. Some Hobbits, like Dodric Brandybuck, tried to play with the children, telling them gentle jokes and throwing balls about, but it was tough going.

Watching Myrtle Follow John the Shepherd

As they walked to their next appointment Fiesty noticed Myrtle hurrying up the pasture to John Dawson, the orphaned shepherd boy. She looked determined, as usual. Fiesty commented to Maisie, “That could be trouble.”  Maisie nodded and wisely replied, “Yes, imagine being free ter roam and all fer a year and then wind up in Myrtle’s care. It could be tryin on both of em.”

Fiesty nodded in turn. Her instinct was the boy would be better off in a human household, but the refugees had all they could do with their own families.  “Well, I will look fer a chance ter talk with him soon. Perhaps there be a way ter fix it.”

Their goodbyes done for the morning, Maisie went down to the Mill and Fiesty looked for Berilac Tighfield, her chief organizer. Not for the first time Fiesty wished Juste was about to take over that office, but he had followed the King and had not been seen since.

She found Berilac in the assembly house surrounded by Hobbits and Humans and a few Elves. The hubbub had slowed considerably but there still was a shortage of shelter. When Fiesty came in he spoke to one of his assistants and stood up, allowing his assistant to take over.

“Archdruid Lotus, good day ter yer” Fiesty smiled and said “Now you know I want yer to call me jest Fiesty.” Berilac nodded, a sour look on his face at the impropriety, but said “Yes mam.”

Fiesty internally sighed and then asked if there was anything he had to report. “Ah yes mam, we had two fire violations and a report of a few thefts. The cattle did get into the grain and had ter be chased out with brooms by Dame Violet and her niece. The tent team managed to make 50 new tents, and 200 pallets out of chicken feathers and hay. We used up 80 bags of flour, 32 bags of sugar, 30 hens fer stewing and 56 bags of grain fer porridge this morning…

” Fiesty cut him off, “But were there any new refugees, and does everyone have shelter?” 

Berilac looked down at his notes, “Well, most have shelter. We did get a few stragglers, an elven fellow, name of Fingon, and a human, name of Silversmith. 

Fiesty Approaches Beleriac Tighfield

Fiesty cried “Silversmith, Winter Silversmith?” 

Berilac answered “Um yes, that is the name, he was right bedraggled lookin.”  
Fiesty practically shouted “And where is he now?” 

Berilac looked uncomfortable, “Well, every home was spoken for so we gave him a tent and a token ter get some food. I dunno know where he is rightly.”  With a frown, Fiesty told Berilac that someone should be sent to look for the man. He nodded and found a scout to seek him out. 

Then she turned to some of the Hobbits in the hall. “You boys go out and give the word that Market will be held tonight by the Lighthouse. Make sure everyone in the Shire gets the word. Would you do that for me?” The boys all said yes and scattered, happy to be out in the air instead of the stuffy assembly room.

***************

Later on, the Market was held in the Shire. The Lady Saphira was there along with Fae Talia, They were talking about the latest developments when they heard a welcome voice from a distance.

Winter Silversmith shouts: Halloooo

Winter Silversmith mumbles to himself “What a beautiful place, I cannot believe I have not been here before.”

Saphira Mistwalker looks over to the bridge. "Ah, there he is."

Talia.Sunsong: "Princess Lightning can teach me how to shoot. That is awful generous of you considering I might defend myself with it. I want a nickname for learning how to shoot. I want to be Princess Danger Fae"

Winter Silversmith: “Odd place for a tent sir.”

Saphira Mistwalker giggles at Lord Winter's comment.

Fiesty Lotus turns to see Winter approaching

Talia.Sunsong:  “Greetings”

Winter Silversmith: “Ahh there you be.”

Fiesty Lotus: “Greetins Lord Winter.”

Winter Silversmith:  “Blessed Be”

Talia.Sunsong:  “Princess Lightning is offering to teach me how to shoot arrows.”

Saphira Mistwalker:  “Greetings Lord Winter, and welcome to the Shire refugee camp.”

Fiesty Lotus: “How yer faring?”

Winter Silversmith:  “Well it was quite the journey but I survived.”

Winter’s Escape from the Shadowlands

Winter Silversmith lay in bed with his eyes closed. It was warm and he was comfortable. Winter could feel the sunlight beaming in the window and onto his face. Nearby the waterfall roared sending water streaming by the ledge Winter called home. Winter listened for the sound of Bear pestering the sheep as his faithful German Shephard did every morning. Winter heard barking below, but this time it was different somehow, Bear’s bark was more excited than usual.

Winter took a deep breath and could smell sweetgrass and cedar burning. Winter opened his eyes and discovered a ghostly haze filled the room. As Winter’s senses began to awaken he could hear a strange sort of crackling noise that began to mask the roar of the nearby waterfall.

Suddenly a rumbling jostled the whole of the treehouse and a painting near the door fell of the wall with a crash. The corner of the frame cracked and splintered across the floor. “What is that, a quake?!” Winter exclaimed as he jumped out of bed. Winter could hear the sheep bleating below as Bear barked frantically. A second rocking and loud cracking shifted the treehouse to the right and off its foundation knocking Winter back off his feet.

Bears’ barking became a pained yelping and Winter called out as he crawled toward the door “Bear, I am coming, are you hurt?” Bear did not have time to reply to his master's voice. Another quake ripped large boulders out of the ledge and dropped them, along with Bear and two sheep, into the river.

Winter shoved the treehouse door open, to reveal the chaos that lay before him. The treehouse teetered precariously over the river several paces from where it stood before.

Winter caught a glance of the river, it was full of debris much of which was on fire. The opposite shore was barely visible through a wall of brown-white smoke. The shore, trees and Winters’ rowboat were on fire.

“Bear!” Winter called out over the crackling flames dancing on nearby branches. The red and yellow Autumn leaves curled and crumbled into black ashes blowing away in the hot gusts of wind passing by. “Where are you?” Winter called out as his eyes darted from left to right. Winter hunched on all fours in the doorway and after taking a deep breath leapt clumsily forward towards the river below.

Tumbling downward Winter landed on his right shoulder into the cold ripples of the river. Winter flailed his arms and traveling with the current landed on the mainland shore near Can’s farm. Coughing from the water in his mouth and throat and the putrid smoke in the air Winter clamoured up the rocks and onto the shore. After another violent quake rumbled through the farm Winter rose to his feet quickly surveying his surroundings. The farm was empty, pens were disheveled, gates were left open, everyone had already fled the chaos.

 

Shadowlands in Flames

Winter began running toward the bridge to Cheshire Market. “I have to get out of here, I just pray there is still a ship in port” Winter said. Where was Bear? Did he survive and would Winter see his loyal companion ever again? What of the sheep, did they all perish? Winter did not have any time to look before his sobering dive into the river. The air was thick with smoke and any crack where there was no smoke only flames licked through. Winter had lost his home, his small flock of sheep, and he feared his dog Bear, who was a member of his family was gone – his only family.

The marketplace was deserted. The Ranger sentries that normally stood guard at the archway were gone. A hay-filled cart lay overturned near a couple stands its cargo of baskets of apples spilled out across the cobblestones. A warm ash filled breeze circled through the deserted streets. A shutter on a window of a nearby shop creaked open slamming with a thud against the wall. Winter ran past the trees in the courtyard and out towards the docks.

“Aye now, who goes there?” a Ranger stepped out to meet Winter as he entered the Cheshire Docks. The Rangers clothes were disheveled and blackened with soot.

“Lord Silversmith of the Shadowlands” said Winter.

“Shadowlands!! By the gods’ sire, that area was evacuated hours ago, the final boats out of here are right over there” the Ranger said pointing at a cluster of small fishing vessels.

“Final? Is there no hope of saving River City or Cheshire or…” Winters’ voice trailed off in disbelief.

“All is lost the fires and the quakes can not be halted by a miracle this harbour is even still standing” the Ranger replied.

“Not for long, the flames were licking at the fence of Can’s farm” Winter said pointing back towards the smoke billowing into the marketplace through the archway. “You had better get aboard, the boats are leaving for the Shire, the Hobbits are offering everyone sanctuary until they can be relocated” the Ranger nodded towards the ramp to the nearest boat. Winter ran up the ramp and onto the boat launching for the Shire. “What will become of us?” Winter glanced back at the docks and watched as flames drifted onto the roofs of the buildings.

***********

The boat docked along the shore and the weary refugees including Winter disembarked onto the lush green grass of the Shire. The boat held six stragglers who were found throughout the River City either trapped by fires or gathering what trinkets they could from their shattered lives.

Winter had nothing but the tattered clothes on his back and no shoes. His feet were bruised and blackened from dirt and ash. “No shoes, well that is something normal at least” Winter said glancing down at his feet and wriggled his toes.

A Hobbit stood by a nearby bridge with a quill and scroll in his hand. “Name and former home” he said staring at Winter. Winter replied and tried to ask the Hobbit about lodging. “Cross the bridge and see Berilac Tighfield he is assigning housing to refugees” he said without even raising his head to acknowledge Winter further. “Next!” the Hobbit said bluntly waving Winter toward the footbridge.

Winter Looks Back

Winter walked over the footbridge and paused for a moment to watch the sun setting behind the trees. "Goodbye Bear I hope you are at peace now"