Bilbo and Frodo aren't the only hobbits to have had adventures. One day, a young hobbit was sitting by the fire of the Prancing Pony when an odd stranger walked in. she was an elf, ageless and yet ancient. Her hair was tied back in a long plait, her brown travelling boots splattered with mud, evidence of her having ridden long and hard. A wrapped sword sat on her waist, and a bow and quiver of arrows was slung over her shoulder. She unslung them and took a seat in the corner. Delving into her pack, she drew out a curved pipe. filling it with pipeweed, and lighting it, she sat back with an appreciative sigh.

Like many others at the Prancing Pony that day, Sapient du Xianin was just happy to get out of the cold and warm himself with a good drink. Since he wasn't currently on duty, he wasn't at his usual level of peak alertness, but he nonetheless did a doubletake as soon as the brown-haired elf lass walked in. Setting his beer down, Sapient studied her more closely. Despite some obvious mud splattered on her boots, she made him instantly self conscious: the elven image--- ageless beauty-- and their finely tailored clothes were in harsh contrast to the haggard unkempt look of most of the men here, himself included. The thought crossed his mind to wonder what was the chance a man like him would have with her, but then he quickly pushed that thought aside as soon as it entered his mind. The elf was well-armed, and undoubtedly not interested and not his type of female regardless. But the thought worried him. Would some of the other men here forget their manners and provoke the elf wanderer with lustful advances? If so, no doubt a fight would ensue, and he hated to think what that elf might do with her sword and thousands of years of experience. It was better to stop such nonsense before it began. Nodding to himself, Sapient rose and went over to make sure there wouldn't be any trouble.

Tincolindo noticed the human walking over to her, and looked up. She took in his appearance, and nodding her acknowledgement of his approach, she gestured to the seat beside her. It had been a long, lonely road, and she felt in need of some company tonight, even it was only a human. She smiled at him. "Well met, sir. I am Tincolindo, daughter of Thranduil of Mirkwood. I take it by your armour that you are of the town guard? Perhaps you could be of assistance to me? My father is in need of help - orcs are massing on the borders of Mirkwood, and what few elves are left in our lands are not enough to drive back the storm. My own brother is on a vital mission, of which I may speak little, as yet, but I am in need of a companionship of my own, a fellowship to drive at the heart of Sauron in the North, just as my brother strikes at his head in the East. Forgive me for imposing on you straight away like this, but time is of the essence. Know you of anyone that would be willing to join me?"

"Daughter of..." Sapient barely stopped himself from cursing. Elvish nobility! He could just imagine the political fallout if a brawl were to break out now, or worse, if he were blamed for some sort of diplomatic error. "I am known as Sapient duXianin. Very pleased to meet you m'lady," he said, trying to sound as formal as possible. He gave a little bow and sat down. After stretching and listening to her tale, he sighed. It was clear that everyone's attention was on them now. Still, if anyone in the surrounding crowd heard her plea, no one seemed eager to step forward. "Times aren't what they used to be I'm afraid," he said. The elf didn't seem to understand so he elaborated. "Most of the fighting men are well past their prime... and these young-uns are too focused on their own concerns to worried about things that a-far off. The few who are fool-headed enough to go--- they wouldn't know how to point a sword in the right direction not to stab themselves, much less face off against the vermin from Mordor." Sapient shook his head. Despite all their knowledge the elves truly did not understand the ways of men. Maybe in his younger days, he would have undertaken such a quest, though... He pondered it, looking at the scars crossing his right arm.

Updated 26 March 2012 (01:06)

"I am known as Sapient duXianin. Very pleased to meet you m'lady,"

"And I, you."

"Times aren't what they used to be I'm afraid," he said. The elf didn't seem to understand so he elaborated. "Most of the fighting men are well past their prime... and these young-uns are too focused on their own concerns to worried about things that a-far off. The few who are fool-headed enough to go--- they wouldn't know how to point a sword in the right direction not to stab themselves, much less face off against the vermin from Mordor."

Tincolindo let out a small chuckle, but nodded. She caught sight of him eyeing his scars, and her voice softened.

"And you, Sapient? What about you? Would you fight to save your land?" She leant forward across the table, aware of all the eyes in the tavern on her, and her eyes sparkled in the firelight as her voice strengthened. She spoke to Sapient, but her words were for the whole tavern. "War is coming, Sapient. Not only to Mirkwood, but to all of us. If Mirkwood falls, who will stop the forces of evil from destroying the North? The Men of Gondor? The Rangers? They are busy fighting their own battles to the east. The Dwarves? What care they for the plight of Man? What of the Hobbits who know of nothing but farming and gardening? I know of only two who are willing to journey and fight, and they also have headed east." She shook her head. "No, Sapient - it is up to us. To what few brave Men, Hobbits, Dwarves and Elves that we can muster."

She leant back, and sighed. "I do not ask you to decide now - no man can take that burden on so quickly. I merely ask you to find those who are willing, and to send them to me. My father is holding a council, some days hence, and it is then that we will decide what is to be done. If you, or those you find, decide not to help during that time, then they will be free to return home, to live in peace... for as long as peace can be found. But I fear that will not be long."

Stumbling a bit from weariness, Kitharis opened the door to the Pony's common room with relief. The rumours of trouble on the borders of Mirkwood had reached her far in the west, even west of Bree and the Shire. Though she had not been home for many a year, it was still home, and she needed to be there. But she could go no further tonight. She sipped gratefully at the wine she ordered, savouring its warmth to her tired limbs, and turned to survey the room. All looked fairly normal for this time of year -- except the face of the person talking to a man at one of the tables. Her eyes widened as she recognised the face, and she gave a single respectful nod when the elven lady met her eyes. Kitharis unconsciously smoothed back her long raven hair, now rather tangled from the wind. She doubted Lady Tincolindo would know her, not being one of those who spent much time in the great hall with the king, but her clothes and general features would mark her as from Mirkwood. Kitharis wondered what would send her so far from the greenwood. If it was related to the rumours she'd heard, she was ready to serve. She kept her eyes on the conversation at the table, not wishing to intrude, but watching for any indication she'd be welcome to join them.

Tincolindo leaned back after she'd spoken, and surveyed the room, in time to catch sight of another Elf watching her. she hadn't noticed her come in, as she had been busy talking to Sapient, but as the other Elf's eyes widened in recognition, Tincolindo returned her nod.

"Excuse me, my lady..." A rather timid little voice emerged from Tincolindo's left. she looked round, and then down. A hobbit stood before her, wringing his hand shyly. "Forgive me, but I couldn't help overhearing, and well.... I want to come." Tincolindo raised her eyebrow and smiled at the hobbit.

"Well, master hobbit. And can you fight?"

The hobbit looked at her, and a quick look of bravery crossed his face. "I can try, my lady. But I see it like this - things are starting to happen, even in the Shire. There been strange folk seen abroad, orcs and other terrible creatures. I want to protect my homeland. I might not be a powerful warrior, or a quick archer like yourself, my lady, but I want to do what I can."

"And so you shall, my friend. Come, and join us." Tincolindo smiled, and turned back to the Elf at the bar. "And what of you, my lady? Will a Daughter of Mirkwood not also be seated with us?" She smiled and gestured to the seat opposite her.

"I remember something now... the words of the gray wizard who helped me when I was-- when I was just a little scoundrel, skinny half-starved and scared to death. He told me if ever I was-- well, just like now I guess. But I can't seem to figure how he could have meant this." Sapient stopped, lost in his own thoughts as he stared into the fire for several minutes as the hobbit spoke. Finally, some spark arose in Sapient's cold blue eyes, and the sharp lines on his scarred face were creased into a grin. "Fine," he said, "But, we're going to need help. I have some friends who just might be interested. As luck, some of them are in the direction we're headed," Sapient said. "Luck... we'll need it," he added. Sapient sensed that what the elf said was true. But was he really fit enough for the battle that lay ahead? He hoped he wasn't just going along with her because of that pretty face. Then again, it would make the journey pleasant.

Kitharis moved to the table with an unconscious grace and seated herself. "Kitharis at your service, Lady," she said softly but clearly. She met the eyes of the others in turn, and smiled, seeing the courage on their faces. "I have heard rumours of a rise of evil folk to the east. Are these rumours true? Where are they striking?" She remembered the years of training, of endless drills with the sword and many hours at the archery butts, but she had had little experience in actual fighting. The occasional stray orc from the Misty Mountains, a warg here and there -- that was all. She felt a slight thrill that she might be able to truly test her skills in the coming days.

"Fine," he said, "But, we're going to need help. I have some friends who just might be interested. As luck, some of them are in the direction we're headed,"

Tincolindo smiled in return. "I am glad for that." At Sapient's half-murmured addendum, her grin turned more wry, but she said nothing.

"Kitharis at your service, Lady,"

"And you are a welcome sight indeed, Kitharis. Long has it been since I have looked upon one of our own kind. Meaning no disrespect to the humans and hobbit of course...." here she cast a mischevious look at Sapient and the hobbit.

"I have heard rumours of a rise of evil folk to the east. Are these rumours true? Where are they striking?"

Tincolindo's face turned serious, and she turned to face Kitharis.

"It is true. Terrible, and true. But it is not the East that is our main concern - not yet, at any rate. My brother is out there now, helping four young hobbits in a secret task that may yet prove to be the Dark Lord's downfall. No, it is closer to home where the true terror lies, my friend. Mirkwood is in danger, and with it Imladris, Lorien...even the lands of the Shire are in peril. Yet hope remains. My father will be able to explain more, and I am loath to say much now, for even in this place, walls have ears...." She had leant forward, her voice dipping to a hushed tone, her eyes flicking to a shady figure leaning against the wall on the other side of the tavern. "And the enemy has spies in many places."

Kitharis nodded acknowledgement, seeming to take no notice of the figure Tincolindo alluded to. Nevertheless, she kept him -- her? it was hard to tell -- in the corner of her eye as the conversation continued. "Tell me where I am needed and I will go." She mentally counted her arrows, wondering if she had enough for what was likely to come.

Tincolindo smiled at Kitharis.

"For now, rest. Tomorrow we shall start the return journey to Mirkwood. I fear it is not wise to linger overlong in such a place as this. My father will hold council then, and the matter shall be discussed."

"I am ready also," the young hobbit chimed in. "I, Drogo Brockhouse, will be glad to be of what service I may."

"And you are welcome indeed amongst our band, Drogo."

Sapient took slight offense at the suggestion. "You won't have any trouble here, I assure you." he said. He gently patted the crossbow at his side. "I may not have experience with dwarves, elves, or beasts, but when it comes to hunting humans you won't find many men with more experience." He gave a stern look to anyone who doubted him.

Kitharis met his eyes with a soft smile and nodded. "I am sure you are quite skilled. I will welcome the opportunity to see such a weapon wielded, as it is not one I have ever used." She looked around at everyone at the table. "When do we leave? I will ask the landlord to have our mounts ready."

Tincolindo nodded her approval.

"Very well, it is decided. We four shall leave at dawn's first light. Rest tonight, for it is a long journey that lies ahead of us. I will see to the rooms."

She rose from the table, bowing slightly to them all, then crossed the taverns room to speak to the barman. Coins exchanged hands, and the rooms were rented. The barkeeper led Tincolindo up the first flight of stairs, and into a room overlooking the yard.

"I'm sorry it ain't up to much, my lady," the barkeeper said, scratching his head and looking sheepish "but, well, one thing drives out another you know, and I've been so busy down there I've not had time to keep up with the rooms. Nob does his best, but he's not the brightest spark, if you know what I'm saying. It's not as grand as the rooms you'll be used too, either..."

The room was small, but clean and well kept, and after sleeping rough under the stars, Tincolindo was happy to have a soft, warm bed once again. She turned to the inkeeper and smiled. "It is perfect, Barliman." The inkeeper smiled shyly, and quietened.

"Is there anything else you'll be needing my lady?"

"Thank you, but no. when you return downstairs, would you be so good as to show my companions to their rooms? Sapient may already have one, but I am fairly certain Kitharis and Drogo do not."

"Of course, my lady. Sleep well."

"Thank you. Oh, and Barliman - don't let one thing drive out another...." Tincolindo winked, and Barliman laughed guiltily, before closing the door behind him. Tincolindo stretched, smiled, then lay on the bed, determined to get the first good night's sleep since setting out from Mirkwood.

When Butterbur returned from Lady Tincolindo's room, Kitharis drew him aside. "We will wish to leave at daybreak, Mr Butterbur." She spoke quietly, her voice just reaching his ears. Please have our horses ready at that time, and breakfast ready an hour before that." "Of course, miss," he said with a nod. "I'll roust out Bob for the horses when I send Nob up with the breakfast. He'll show you to a private parlour for the four of you. The other lady, she already bespoke rooms for you all, so that's all settled." She held up a hand with a smile, to stem the flow of words. "Thank you. It will be enough if Nob can show us to rooms. As busy as you are, I am sure you will want to keep your own eye on the common room tonight." "That I will, miss, that I will. What with all the--" He caught sight of the cheerful hobbit carrying a tray of mugs. "Hey, Nob, you ninny, give me that and take care of these here gentlemen and lady." He took the tray deftly and headed off. "Now, what was it I was going to remember? Ah, that was it! Bob, horses ..." His voice faded as Kitharis followed Nob up the stairs to a small, tidy room, with sturdy furnishings and a large window facing west. As soon as Nob shut the door behind him, she opened the window wide. If she couldn't sleep outdoors, she could at least let the outdoors in as much as possible. She laid her weapons beside her, ready to hand in case of any emergency, and then lay flat, hands on her chest, resting her mind in the Elvish dream paths, eyes open but unseeing.

When the barman returned, he looked around for Sapient, but the veteran watchman had already vanished. Maybe he had business to tend to or something like that. Butterbur just shrugged and went back to serving his patrons. Outside a shadowy figure fell in step behind him. Sapient didn't seem surprised, but he kept one hand on his crossbow as he walked. "Tell old Wolfeyes I won't be checking in tomorrow," Sapient said. "I've just taken a comission." The man in black snorted. "From what I heard you're working it for free. That ain't like you. Not at all." Sapient's voice was smooth but cold. "Just tell him what I told you to tell him," he said. "Alright," the man said, "But he won't like it,"

Kitharis stirred, stretched thoroughly, and arose. The boards under her feet felt cool and comfortable, and with a bit of reluctance she drew on her shoes. With one quick glance around the room to be sure she hadn't missed anything in packing, she slung her saddlebags over a shoulder and slipped outside. A hobbit was checking girths on the horses waiting in the courtyard. This must be the "Bob" that Butterbur had spoken of last night. "Morning, miss," he said, with a tug at his forelock, at least half his attention still on the horses. "All shined up and ready t' go." "Thank you," she said with a soft smile. She secured her saddlebags in the most comfortable spot and patted Nartâl's neck. "I'll be back soon," she whispered in the horse's ear. "Then we can get into the country again." Both Kitharis and the horse preferred to be outside walls, and Nartâl could use a good run. When she went back into the inn, Nob showed her to a small parlour where a simple but good breakfast was laid out on the table.

Tincolindo woke at the first sign of dawn creeping in through her window. She rose quickly, donned what little armour she had removed, and quickly scanned the room. A glance out of the window confirmed the horses were ready and saddled, including her own mare, Elthwen. Tincolindo smiled as the smell of cooking reached her. She wandered down into the courtyard after Kitharis had headed back in, and smiled down at Bob.

"Morning to you also, miss." He tugged at his forelock, as he had done with Kitharis. "Yours'll be that mare then?" He looked over at the white mare. "I'm sorry, though miss, I couldn't get no saddle on her."

Tincolindo smiled. "She will take neither saddle nor bridle, master hobbit. She is fine as she is." The hobbit nodded, and Tincolindo returned to the inn. Nob greeted her, and showed her to the same parlour as Kitharis.