The Chamber of The Rangers

[Ecthelion]

A dwarf walks into the chamber linking off the profound Weathertop. He sits in the circle of oak chairs and waits for others to arrive. The Weather Hills were now The Rangers and Weathertop was rebuilt and now hade many chambers and houses running off from which is where The Rangers would meet. Nain sat in his chair silently as he waited.

[EverEve]

At the sound of a horse's galloping hooves, Nain looked up. Below him he saw Eve ride towards Weathertop on her horse. A few moments later, she entered the chamber in which Nain was sitting. Grabbing a chair she sat near him, greeting her fellow captain, and then lapsing into silence while she waited for the others to arrive.

[Éomond]

Coming from the South, Isildur rode his horse Silvernight to the newly constructed Weathertop. He stopped, got off his horse, and climbed the stairs to the chamber. He greeted his captians EverEve and Dain Ironfoot. Isildur then sat down in a chair on the other side of the table and looked around the Chamber of the Rangers.

[Ecthelion]

"Welcome Isildur. We only need a few more Rangers and we can talk about matters at hand. Would either of you like something to drink?" Nain snapped his fingers and a small hobbit cam rushing in sliding as he turned the corner to get in. The hobbit said to EverEve and Isildur "Greetings I am Tom Muddyfoot at your service."

OOC:I'm sure you meant Nain Ironfoot Isildur;)

[Goldberry344]

Goldie trots up to weathertop with a huge grin on her face. she dismounts her cat, rabbit, and sends him off to catch some big mice. then goldie strides into the chamber. She smles at Nain, Eve and Isildur, sits down and begins cleaning her dagger.

[Ecthelion]

"Hello there Goldberry, pleasure to see you, this is my hobbit friend Tom, if you need ANYTHING(reasonable) please feel free to ask. Just a few more we need to arrive."

[HLGStrider]

Elgee bursts in, panting and gasping, followed by a smirking cat.
"Badger that is the last time I am taking on of you shortcuts! I don't know what you were thinking, climbing up the castle wall instead of going through the gate! Sure you can do it, I don't doubt your claws... I NEED SOME WATER!"

Elgee plops down. "I have fifty cat riding rangers outside waiting for use!"

[EverEve]

"That, Elgee, is the dangers of cats!" Eve replied, laughing. "Hello Isildur, Goldie! I hope the others get here soon. I can barely wait until the discussions begin..." *requests a Dr Pepper from Tom* "Nain, My men are nearby, awaiting any orders."

[Ecthelion]

"The others will join us when they can. First off I would like you all to know we are pledged to help Arnor in the War. I would also like to know what exactly you all have for war."

My 50 men:
10 Olliphaunt's with dwarven riders that carry many throwing axes
25 Heavy armor dwarven warriors All heavy armor dwaves have: 1 double sided mattock, 2 throwing axes, 1 spear on their backs for backup.
15 Light Armor dwarves(same as heavy only more agile)
The heavy dwarves have mithril plated armor under iron plated armor that goes to the waist and leg coverings of armor also they all have iron helms, the light have only mithril but only on the waist. The rest of their armor is light iron.

"I will be going to battle as follow:
Light Armor, Axe of Tuor, 8 throwing axes all about my waist, and I will ride my own Oliphaunt," Nain points outside to his Oli who is larger than the others and he explained "He has mithril tipped tusks and he has a mithril covering on his toes and the bottom of his feet."

[Mablung]

*Lolik walks up into the council and removes his mask wearily.*

Forgive my tardiness I ran into some ah complications along the way. I tried a new path and well it just didn't work. Well folly is the spice of life I suppose. Anyway my forces have been gathered the list of them is as follows. They are also all men.

15 Mounted Archers (Bows, short swords, chainlink armor, and spears.)
15 Trackers (Studded leather armor, short bows, short swords.)
20 Sword Dancers (Iron Armor, Scimitars, Throwing Knives, and wooden shields.)

I myself with simply go with my sword, my bow, my quiver, an iron reinforced wooden shield, and my steed. I have some iron and mithril chainmail I will be wearing along with my cloak and such.

[EverEve]

Welcome, Lolik! Those paths can be a terror!

My men are armed as follows:

25 Elven swordsman (helmets, mail, leather gaurds for forearms, one sword, two daggers...all are iron and mithril mixed..)
15 Elven Archers (same armour as swordsmen, quiver of mithril-tipped arrows, bow, two short daggers)
10 Mounted (same armour, back-up spear, two daggers, sword, arrows/bows)

I will ride Windrider into battle with a sword, three sharp daggers, and my bow/arrows. I'll have my helmet, mail, wrist-thingers, and gloves with those grippy-things. Windrider will have light mithril armour including a breastplate and face gaurd.

[Éomond]

Yes, welcome Lolik to the Rangers!

My Men:

15 Mounted Archers (light armor, leather, gloves, Long Bows, quiver of arrows, short swords and a dagger.)
35 Mounted Spearmen (mail, metal, helms, gloves/gauntlets, Spear, shield, Long Knife, Sword)

I will ride Silverfoot(horse) who has light mail on his body. I will take a Long Sword (Calimmacil), Spear, shield, long Knife, and a throwing daggar.

"Welcome everyone else. I to can't wait for the discussion the begin. Hullo? Mr. Muddyfoot, I would like a glass of Sparkiling Apple Cider?"

[Ecthelion]

"Just call me Tom good sir." Tom replied. He hurried away and got the drinks. Nain whispered to Tom. Tom ran across the room and pulled a bell. Another hobbit came rushing in seeming much faster than Tom. "Tim Muddyfoot Lord Nain, reporting." Nain answered "Tim, I need your speed. Go to the Senate of Attanore and give Lord Jahadur this." Nain handed Tim a parchment. Tim nodded and ran off.

[Éomond]

Isildur looked a Nain supisouly, who giving the quick hobbit the letter. Isildur then drew his sword!!! Then sharpened it waiting for his drink and the other Rangers to come.

EDIT: Nain, Elgee, Eve, Goldie, aDaHe. One of you should post on that link Ancalagon posted in Rangers (and R.II)! We could be getting our on space soon! Post you guys post!

[Ecthelion]

Nain glanced back and spoke to Isildur "Calm down my friend, I am sending Lord Jahadur a parchment letting him know half our army is ready for battle." Nain noticed Isildur had gotten a grin on his face. Nain could tell he badly wanted some orc blood on his sword. Nain sat quietly and waited anxiously for his return letter.

[Éomond]

(ooc: Read my edit)

[Mablung]

*Hums softly to himself and checks his arrows making sure that the shafts are straight and that they will fly true.*

Well I doubt the good Lord will keep us waiting long after the letter is recieved. It is a peril however that they are serving supper over there and Tim was sidetracked.

[HLGStrider]

Elgee stroked Badger's head.

"These are serious times... We have barely settled into our new home and already a war... I think my cats were outlawed from the last battle, and the situation probably hasn't changed. They might have to stay home and guard the fort."

[EverEve]

*Pulls out her trusty sword, Vulcan, and began sharpening it* " 'Tis been long since I have brought Vulcan into battle, for there has been no need of her. *grins mischieviously* She's gotten bored, and is hungry for some orc blood...No doubt that she will have her fill soon..."

I don't doubt that you all have seen the attachement in both of the Rangers threads. I think we should take up on it...It would be nice to have our own Guild space :)

[Éomond]

"Yes, that would be great!"
Isildur looks up from sharpening Calimmacil, his sword "Where is that little Muddyfoot? I'm getting thristy!"

[Ecthelion]

Tom runs back in and passes out the drinks," Please forgive me Lords and Ladies for I spilled a drink and had to get another." Nain truned to Elgee and spoke "Elgee please tell what your 50 men consist of? You too Goldberry."

[EverEve]

After we get all the Army-Men established, and the war, I believe we have another pressing issue: THE GUILD SPACE. We need to make an excellent argument to get that slot. That is, if everybody wants it...

Should we take a vote? Do you, or do you not, want our own Guild Space...Just a thought..

[Goldberry344]

"I would like 10 Elvish archers, or ones with as good aim. 10 mounted archers, 10 mounted swordsmen, 5 mages, if any are to be found, and the rest (of either twenty or fifteen, depending on the mages found) to be skilled infantry, with knowledge of sword, staff and bow.

[Arathin]

Through an open window, an eagle flies into the hall and lands on Nain's arm. Nain pulls a small note from a carrier pouch.

To Nain and my Dearest Fellow Rangers.

I regret to inform you that due to the seriousness of the war against the East, I am unable to leave Mithlond to met with you at Weathertop. I fear that may lands and deuty to Lord Ciryaher, my people, and our side in the war, that I remain in Mithlond. Should any wish, a warm welcome indeed will be for any Rangers wishing to come to Mithlond. As for the men offered. I request only this... That my 50 armed forced be 25 men, 25 women. I wish for Elven archers from any province. Thank you my dear friends.



OOC:btw, I think I deserve a bit of respect being the longest person on TTF in the Ranger to my knowledge and also being the first of any one still here to have been a Ranger in the Rangers started by Wizdom. Just a side comment... Ignore if you wish, but still... ack I am ranting again.

[Goldberry344]

OOC ~ Arathin, who said we dont respect you? we respect you like we respect everyone. please dont play rank. the only reason you were here first is becase the others of us found out about it later. about the forum i mean. everyone on this forum, i believe, would have joined earlier than they had if they had known of the forum. so "rank" and "post counts" or "date of joining" really do no good, tis my belief.

[Ecthelion]

Nain reads over the letter and sends it back wishing her the best of luck and that her 50 women/men are on the way. Nain awaits Elgee to annouce her 50 warriors. BTW, no more OOC guys, leave it for the Ranger threads.

[Winterine]

A slender, hooded figure watches from the shadows of the council chamber... wondering whether to make her presence known...

[Éomond]

"Well..." Said Isildur, who put away Calimmacil and took a drink of his Cider "I think there is enough Rangers here, so lets start the discussion, what-ever it's about."

[EverEve]

"I agree, Isildur! We should get this underway." As she said it, Eve noticed Winterine lurking in the shadows. "Come in, fellow ranger!" she called. *Edited by Ciryaher for OOC Reference*

*Note from Cir: Modern objects are NOT permitted in Forum-IN CHARACTER...thank you.*

[Ecthelion]

"Yes Winterine do sit down. Ok, anyway first we must discuss our parts in the battle. How shall we go? Stay in unison together or go in small and meet up in a spot? Also I believe Elgee's cats will make great guards for the Weather Hills, but i would like to know if anyone would like to stay behind and help guard or leave one or two of your Captains(in your 50 men). Your thoughts my fellow Rangers?"

[Anamatar IV]

As Nain said these words the sound of galloping hooves were heard. The Rangers grabbed their weapons and rushed to look out around Weathertop. A lone rider was riding towards them. He bore the banner of the golden star-that of Heren Istarion. As the rider dismounted he was met by several rangers.

"Hail, mighty Rangers," he said as he bowed low. "I bring thee a messege from Ingolemo of Heren Istarion." He unrolled his scroll.

"Mighty Rangers of the Weather hills,
War is brewing. Heren Istarion is but a council and we do not have the defenses enough to either go to war nor to defend our temple. we request to be allies with you. We desire the might that youc an protect us with and in turn we shall grant you wisdom and counsel whenever you desire so. Fare ye well,
Ingolemo of Heren Istarion

[Ecthelion]

Nain nodded to the man and got his own letter. Nain quickly wrote a letter and sent it to the Temple. "I wish you great speed!" He said. the man nodded and rode back to The Temple. Nain spoke to his Rangers "Well my friends new allies I believe we have and they need our protection. Elgee you have 50 cats right? send 25 of them to The Temple by following the scent of the man who just came." Elgee nodded and ran to tell her cats. "The rest of us back upstairs. Ineed your answers before we must go to war." When they got up Nain sat quietly as he waited for an answer.

[Mablung]

I could leave some of my archers behind seeing as how we already have a good deal of them. The Trackers and Sword Dancers probably would not be as useful as defense. I also say that we should go together to our destination.

[Éomond]

Isildur got up from his chair and walked around the table "I think it is a good idea, is it not our perpose to aid other forces and countrys that wish good? Go to war I say! Let us use our skills to aid Heren Istarion! Long has it been that I have aided my country in war, my sword is growing tired, it must feel the orc head once again!" Isildur looked around the table for agreement.

[Ecthelion]

"Isildur." Nain said standing up," I know you want war, but you must calm down. Your time will come and Heren Istarion will be fine for awhile. Wait a few more hours for Tim to return." Nain stayed standing until Isildur finally gave in and sat down.

[Éomond]

Isildur had sat down uneasily in his chair "Yes, they took my youngest: Isimir, and I have yet to avenge his death: In a journey with my two sons Stridir and Isimir, my brother Beronar was with us also. They sprang on us, and we fought. When the battle was over, Isimir was gone. How I must kill orcs. But I shall wait, for I know the time will come to wield my sword in battle. Where is Mr. Tom? I would like a drink please."

[Ecthelion]

Tom caming sliding around the corner with the drink and handed it to Isildur. Nain wispered to Tom and the hobbit began to juggle with flaming swords. Nain smiled as he saw most of The Rangers calm down a bit was the watched the amazing hobbit.

[Mablung]

Ah Hobbits simply amazing.

*Loses himself in though watching the flames until the council starts up again.*

[EverEve]

"I am glad that we have agreed to ally ourselves with Heren Istarion. They are good and just. As for battle, I cannot yet say. How large our the forces we face, and where shall we face them?" *Eve too fell into silence as the hobbit juggled the flaming swords, and waited for Nain to answer her. Sipping her drink, she fingered the jewel on the hilt of her sword, thinking of the days and perils that would lie ahead of the Rangers and her.*

[Ecthelion]

Soon the hobbit stopped and bowed as everyone clapped and he exited. "Ok now that we are all merry and mellow let us continue. EverEve I am not sure what we will face for Lord Ciryaher has not said yet. Also do you all think we should have an overall general? For instance everyone control their 50, but the general would give out specific orders that the others should follow. Should we do this or not? I think it would greatly clean up things."

[Mablung]

Well we are all experienced commanders so I doubt we would have troubles leading seperatly. Our numbers are unfortunatly not huge and if we have an overall General it would take a commander out from the midst of the battle. I think that simply coming up with a plan before the battle as a whole would be the best bet.

[Anamatar IV]

Yet another horse was heard in the distance. The rider stopped at the foot of Amon Sul and called aloud in a great voice (since naught but no ranger had yet come down)

The legions of Heren Istarion set out from the Temple some time ago. Them wilt not be here for some days. We bring an extra century of warriors for one reason: to rienforce the weatherhills.

The rider bowed low to the Rangers that had just come outside and mounted his horse.

"Good lords and ladies," said the messenger. "It is not written on the scroll but I will tell you this:

Among the army of Heren Istarion (which is 100 archers and 200 spears men) ride the Council of Heren Istarion. None other than Ingolemo himself will be riding at the head of the army with his banner on one side and a messanger from Arnor on the other." With those last words the rider sped off back from whence he came.

[EverEve]

Eve watched the retreating back of the messenger, and said "Pity he did not stay for a moment or so longer. We did not even have the chance to offer him drink and rest, and that poor horse looked as though he could have used a moments peace. At least we know our friends shall be here soon. I suggest we go back in," she said, and turned to go inside.

Once all the Ranger's were settled once again in the Chamber, she turned the topic back to strategy. "We cannot plan for a battle we know nothing of. But considering the size of the Mornclaur Federation, it could very easily be a large scale attack. If that were to be the case, we should leave some people to gaurd Weathertop, and then go into battle together."

[HLGStrider]

Elgee puts on a paper crown and hands Nain some puppet strings very good naturedly.

"My warriors are all humans, but not necessarily tall ones. They are skilled in bow and sword but prefer the bow, stealthy men accustomed to fighting in forests."

[Ciryaher]

This post will be deleted after a few days, do not respond to it, just read it

Several of you have been adding anachronistic items (i.e.: Dr. Peppers and Root Beer) to your posts. If you read the RP rules, you will see that this is strictly forbidden. Please observer the rules and remain in-character at ALL times while in the Gov't Council Forum.

Some of you may notice that I have edited your posts. You may change them to something that you like more, but remember to make it IC.

Also, Annuminas (the location of the Temple) and Weathertop are about a 100 mile journey, just to let you know.

Thank you.

[Ecthelion]

Nain spoke to others "We have not much time to plan. When the group of Heren Istarion comes we shall journey north to help from the Mornclaur Fed. that reside up there. We journey after the Heren Istarion's rest. Night is coming so I suggest that soon we all get some rest."

[Arathin]

An eagle flew through the window again. This one also bore a message.

Fellow Rangers, Weathertop must remain guarded. I have not yet need of my 50 elven archers. If you wish, keep them at the fortess to guard it. I will not, I don't think, need them in this war as much as Weathertop must be guarded. ~Lady Arathin of Mithlond

[Ecthelion]

Nain read the message aloud and wrote back a quick thank you and good luck letter. "Ok now we have guards for Weathertop, also since Courtney has not come yet her 50 will also help having us 100 men to guard. That should do us well."

[Mablung]

I hope that Courtney has not been waylaid, but that must wait and I agree we all need some rest. Does anyone have anything else to say? Also any guesses as to when the Heren Istarion shall arrive? It would be good of us to to meet them rather than be caught sleeping.

[HLGStrider]

"Yes, we have no time to plan," Elgee sighed. "My cats will watch over the castle... Seriously I'd be willing to wager that Ciryher does not want me in his battles... Perhaps I should stay here as well."

[Mablung]

Ciryher will take all the help he can get I wager even if that means doing things he wouldn't do before.

[Anamatar IV]

As the Rangers conversed a droning of many hooves were heard. They drew closer and closer. But then they stopped. And a loud voice was heard:

"Hear ye, hear ye-Rangers of Amon Sul. Heren Istarion is come!"

[Ecthelion]

Men all around the Top cheered at Heren Istarions arrival and The Rangers filed out shaking hands and saying hello. After meeting when things calmed down a bit Nain said loudly, "Rangers, Heren Istairon's, and warriors alike. We go to battle against the evil of the Mornclaur Federation and we will defeat it!" Much cheering was heard and slowly died down, "Now we march north to aid the forces of Arnor for the defeat of darkness is near!" Cheering again. Nain called one of his captains over and spoke "Bring me my steed please Ori." the dwarf ran off to do the deed. Soon Nain's Oliphaunt came around the corner. Nain walked up to it and stroked its side calming. Nain climbed up and sat on his place up top. He took out his great horn and let out a great blast. He and the other 5 Oliphaunt riders rode ahead the armies of The Rangers and Heren Istarion with the great leaders of both alongside. "Not long now," Nain spoke to himself.

[EverEve]

Eve soon had Windrider ready. There was a war-saddle on his back, and bridle on his head. He chewed the bit, and gracefully, proudly arched his neck. Around her were her friends and allies, united and one, to destroy an evil, The Mornclaur Federation. O! What a happy day this was, yet it was also lined with fear and sadness. War yet again. If the only good that came out of this was the a strong alliance and new friendships, then maybe all was not lost. 'But Mornclaur Federation will be destroyed, so really, there was nothing to fear.' she thought to herself, and as she did, her spirit lifted and the darkness that had been trying to creep into her heart was banished.

[Mablung]

Lolik made a point to try and meet each of the HI leaders. After that was done he saddled his mount, and made sure all of his provisions were ready. Seeing it was so he started off down the road among the other leaders deep in silence contemplating the battle against the Mornclaur ahead. Looking around he did not doubt that they would come out above the Mornclaurs victorious so many great warriors assembled evil would be won against.

[Ecthelion]

The army of nearly 1000 had been going for almost a whole day. Night had finally come and the warriors were half way to Fomost Erain where they would meet with the Arnorian forces. Camps were set up for the night and the leaders all met in one larger tent. Nain looked around as all Rangers and Istarions(hope its ok to refer to you guys as that) lunged in the tent talking to one another. Nain sat alone in a chair scanning over recent maps of the warseeing where men are, how many and much else. Nain thought to himself "We have gone about 75 miles today with no rest. Tomorrow we shall be a little more tired so if we leave before noon with one rest we should be there early the day after next." Nain starting scanning his maps again.

[Mablung]

Lolik was looking over Nain's shoulder and frowned. 'If we get too tired we will have alot of trouble if we are besieged soon after arriving. Are you sure it is a good idea. I know haste is needed but if we cannot do our job well then we might as well have not come.'

[Ecthelion]

Nain turned and looked at Lolik,"the sooner we get there the better, even if we are tired the forces of Arnor will be strong enough for us to rest, thats even if Mornclaur is going to attack within 2 days." He turned to everyone,"Alright everyone get some rest we have a big day ahead of us."

[Mablung]

Lolik nodded to Nain. 'Whatever you think is best.' He then turned and walked off to his own tent enjoying the light of the stars above him for a moment before getting his beddings from inside and laying them in front of the tent and sleeping there rather than inside of it.

[HLGStrider]

Elgee rested her head into Badger's back, feeling tired. He purred reassuringly... she sighed. What had she got herself into? She hadn't been in a real battle since the Iron Hills were under attack and she invented frying pan warfare after hitting Ori with an arrow... frying pan warfare was probably not what this was going to be. She sighed.

She then approached Nain.

"You're already leading in action, so I believe that you should lead in name. Not the diplomacy, I think I can handle that, but I never took a strategic weapon class in my life. So this battle is yours... not that it wasn't already, but now you can say it without worrying about my feelings. I'll hang around, but I'm not sure I'll be that much help."

[Ecthelion]

Nain stood up and bowed low to Elgee "Yes mi'lady. I do hope you will come along. You are the best with a frying pan since Samwise Gamgee." Nain said with a grin. "Well I am beat, goodnight Elgee, see you in the morn."

[Anamatar IV]

INgolemo and the others of Heren Istarion sat in their tent and talked long into the night. They talked of many things: days of peace, of war, of the valour of men and elves. They talked of the upcoming battle and of the Rangers.

"Dost thou remember stories," Ingolemo said. "Of an age or more ago. When the Rangers arose to glory and one among rose to kingship. I have come across books of this age. I fear the might of men shall never be as great."

"Speak not of might of men!" Alkorr said. "The men of Arnor are true and mighty in the least. Indeed the heirs of Isildur are not sitting in the throne but the fire of Ellesar has been put in the hearts of men of Arnor." Ingolemo conceeded and the talk went to a new topic.

[EverEve]

Eve settled down outside the tent, and listened to the talk of the Istarions nearby. 'Indeed they are wise, and knowlegable. But the Rangers shall rise again, more powerful and great than ever they were...' She pulled her bedding out while her faithful horse munched peacefully beside her, but she was not weary. After awhile, she lay down and rested her eyes, but her mind was far from sleeping: thoughts of war whirled through her head, and the fate of the Rangers was intermingled. Slowly she opened her eyes to find Windrider standing protectively over her, and somehow, in some unexplainable way, it brought peace to her troubled heart and mind, and she was at last able to relax and wander through the strange dreams and sleep of the Elves.

[HLGStrider]

Elgee curled up once more with her beloved Badger...
"It's going to be a hard road, isn't it, old whiskered one," she sighed. "Let's hope it leads to victory."

[Éomond]

(ooc: I would like to change my 50 men to: 30 spearmen and 20 archers, all shall have long sword and a dagger. The spearmen will also carry shields. All will be mounted. I will carry sword, spear, shield and long knife.)

Isildur layed back against his horse and sharpened his long sword Calimmacil under the night stars. His mind was both nervous and excited over the upcoming war. Isildur put down his sword, and he and his horse Flamefoot slept the night away.

[Winterine]

((OOC: ooooh dear, be away a short while for exams and look what's happened :eek: ))

Winterine was not particularly accustomed to being in the company of so many people, even if they were all rangers like herself, so when she was beckoned to join the council discussion she shied away, opting to acquaint herself with the various animals first.

She always kept herself close enough to hear the important things discussed in the council, yet far enough to be unseen. Nobody had since approached her. She felt a little awkward, having only a vague idea what the war was all about, and why her instincts had led her here.

When the Heren Istarions had joined them, she had looked on curiously, but again stayed out of the way of those who seemed to be charge, finding herself more comfortable conversing with common soldiers who took a liking to her. Few of those who led the individual armies, she realised, knew she still lurked about. Still, when they had left to march north, she had made it her business to ensure the animals were well stocked, and had then proceeded to ride ahead, breaking the trail for the others. She was a natural pathfinder; there was no terrain she could not cross stealthily.

Now, the combined armies were camped in for the night. Winterine gazed up at the stars as she leaned against her faithful stallion who rested peacefully. She had a few uncertainties she wanted to clear up about tomorrow before the fighting came, but everyone seemed to be already in cliques or preferentially alone. The person closest to her was one she had come to know of as Isildur. He seemed preoccupied with his own thoughts, so she decided not to trouble him. Every so often she would glance around, to check that all was well. Alone and comfortably without a tent, she calmly waited for morning.

[Ciryaher]

Back at the Weather Hills, a dwarf came riding to the hill upon a mule as stocky as himself. He looked the hills over, and then put a horn to his lips and winded it once. Seconds later, groups of waggons lagen with cut lumber and tools approached from the road.

The dwarf looked around. There were signs of recent habitation, but nobody was around (or so he assumed). "Come," he said, and all of the men and hobbits with him began unloading their cargoes.

[Ecthelion]

Nains hobbit helpers Tim and Tom came running out to the dwarf, they said in unison "Hello sir, how may we help you?"

[Ciryaher]

"Hoy there! We're here on request of General Jahrdur, my friends. We're going to build you a place of strength between these hills; a place for your Rangers to make their Councils within," said the dwarf, who bowed, "I am Goldhram, the Emperor's friend and assistant. Who might you two be?"

[Ecthelion]

One hobbit said "Hi I'm Tom Muddyfoot," the other said "and I'm Tim Muddyfoot." In unison the said "Pleasent to meet you. Do you need any help or drinks?"

[Ciryaher]

The dwarf adjusted his beard and belt, "No thank you, sirs. There's still plenty of work to do ere we sup! I want to be ready to dig the foundation by tomorrow morning. Got to get all this stuff put away."

He bowed, "If you need me, just ask one of my assistants to tell you where Goldhram is. Fare well!" He trotted off and instructed the fifty or so men and hobbits with him to begin unloading the lumber and tools.

[Ecthelion]

Tim and Tom nodded to the dwarf and headed off to The Rangers Chamber. They did not expect to find anyone which they didn't, they simply wanted a view of the work in progress. Tim and Tom stared out one window in awe. The workers went quickly, almost as quick as they did. When they soon got their wits back together they hurried off and prepared a meal for the workers.

[Ecthelion]

A few weeks had passed and the fortress was coming along well. Tim and Tom were always seen running about getting some water for workers and making meals at night. Now the fortress was nearly half way done. Tom and Tim prayed at night that the fortress would come out well and finish swiftly.

[Ciryaher]

Goldhram was instructing a team of men and hobbits pulling on a rope that was suspending a large stone when a hobbit on a pony trotted up and whistled.

"Is Lord Onyxhelm here?" he asked.

The dwarf turned to him after signaling the team to hold. "No need for the title, sir. What do you need; I've got work to do here," he said, a twinge of impatience in his voice.

"Well sir, Lord Jahrdur has gone away...and has left you in command of Arnor."

"He did, eh? I always knew that fellow was out to get me..." he was whispering to himself, then caught it and spoke aloud, "Well, hm, I'll get things settled then be on my way. Good day to you, and many thanks."

[Ecthelion]

Tim couldn't help over hearing the messenger and the dwarf talking. Tim tapped the dwarf on the shoulder and asked "Will you be finishing the fortress before you leave or shall you beliveing before then?" Time hoped the dwarf wouldn't pound him for eavsdropping so he stepped back a little.

[Ciryaher]

Goldhram beamed, "I will stay until I am sure that construction is well on its way. Then, I will leave one of my best men in charge and head to the Capital...much to organize there, I'm sure. Probably in a few days, I shall depart..." he looked at the hobbit's apprehension, "But come, my friend! Let us go and have a pint or two; I have a nice barrel just waiting to be tapped!"

The dwarf put his muscular arm around the hobbit's shoulders and practically dragged him off, singing in a rich baritone.

[Ecthelion]

At first Tim tried to squeeze out and walk normally, but he soon gave up and was draggedn along by Goldhram. He also began singing until they arrived at the barrel the dwarf brought along. Goldhram whipped out two mugs and poured the two some drinks. Minutes later Tim was prancing, dancing, and singing around as the dwarf just laughed and kept drinking.

[Ecthelion]

Tim didn't remeber much of that time. Closer and closer the fortress came to being complete. Tim really didnt want the dwarf to leave. They had become quite good friends, but he knew soon, Goldhram would be leaving.

[Ciryaher]

Several days later, as progress continued, another messenger arrived and delivered an encrypted message to Goldhram.

He looked at it for some time, translating it in his mind, until he finally made it out and nodded to himself. He burned it and broke the ashes, then returned to supervising the construction.

When Tim asked again when the dwarf would be departing, he responded, "I will stay here until this project is complete, friend."

[Ecthelion]

Tim's eyes lit up and a huge smile crept across his face. Many a night they drank their fill and danced and sang, and now Tim dreaded the day the fortress would be complete and his friend Goldhram would have to leave. That day would be coming quite soon.

[Ciryaher]

A morning dawned blearily as a chill drizzle arrived, hiding the sun. The solid stone foundation had been long built, and the outer wall was rising as work began on the inside for the barracks, armoury, storehouse, keep, and several other minor structures.

Goldhram stood upon the only tower that was near complete, in the corner where the walls would intersect. He stood about a score of rangar from the grass below. "You should put a majority of workers on the outer walls, for that is what is needed first," the dwarf said to one of his foremen, "Next in line should be the keep, followed by the hall, barracks, storehouse, armoury, then the infirmary."

"Yes, Lord Goldhram!" said the taller- and heavier-than-average hobbit to whom he spoke.

The dwarf surveyed the worksite and nodded in a pleased way. His dwarven kindred cut the stone, the men built and operated the lifts, and the sharp-eyed and nimble hobbits guided the massive stones into place as they were pushed and pulled onto the walls. Other dwarven and hobbit masons worked busily, cutting massive, flat stones that were to be the face and back of the wall. Human bricklayers set the bricks for the smaller buildings and helped heft the large stones for the keep into place. Hobbits raced about on scaffolding, putting hard-to-reach timbers into place. It was a perfect organization of men, hobbits, and dwarves.

This is as it should be, thought Goldhram.

[Ecthelion]

Days went by and Tim and Tom now helped out building the fortress, the schedule for Tim was simple. During the day he helped in the building and on most nights he spent with his dwarf friend Goldhram. Tim smiled on this bright morning, it was a beautiful day and the fortress was coming along great, he greated the fellow hobbits he worked with almost everday and started working.

[Ciryaher]

A day or two before, a messenger had come and delivered a message to Goldhram. He told everyone that he would return in less than a week, and that his hobbit-friends could keep his supply of ale with them.

[Ecthelion]

Tim and Tom waved as their friend went off on his travels, Tim turned smiling to Tom who was also smiling, simutaneosuly they both looked behind them and stared at the ale left for them, in a flash they ran and got their favorite drinking mug and before they knew it they were dancing, singing, and telling stories they made up of how they killed Balrogs and took the ring to Mordor and such.