Found:
It's been an interesting couple of weeks.
I've been spending as much time with the girls as I can, helping out where necessary. Recalling what Loakee taught me so long ago, I've engaged in rudimentary dance lessons with Millie, who is gradually becoming more talkative. I find myself enjoying her company more and more. Initially quiet and observant, she's proving to be highly intelligent and thoughtful in her dealings as well. She's given me some insights into Cwennie for future use; I've still had little chance to speak with that one.
When I've not been keeping a distant eye on them, or chatting where possible, I'd spent some evenings in Stock charming the local midgets as best I could. Sheltered sensibility appropriate song, dance and tales seemed to do the trick, and it didn't hurt that I bought a round or two either, I guess. I think I did surprisingly well considering my high levels of discomfort around the little buggers.
It proved unnecessary in the end anyway, for not a one of them could give me the information I sought and, as it turned out, Ry had managed to track down the target on his own. I did get to hear an awful lot concerning upcoming nuptials, a couple of almost-but-not-quite scandals involving hedgerow placement and livestock upon roofs, plus a complete history of golf; the least exciting activity known to any race.
It's a damn good job that I've long since gotten good at feigning interest.
On the bright side, after his return, Ry desired a long walk, which saw me, him and Millie take a journey over to Thorin's Hall. I swear the snow there never thaws! The road was quiet and sedate, so the issues that arose from the cold weather affected only me and did not become a liability to the others. In honesty, if we had been attacked, I'd have insisted that Ry look to Millie and leave me to fend for myself. If me and Steel can no longer handle ourselves, then we've no business on the road! Luckily, it didn't come to that.
I hate it though. I hate being so weak. I despise that I am forced to rely on a cane, even in the summer months, should I happen upon cold places. I hate feeling so useless and decrepit. Although I remain hesitant about getting my hopes up, the sooner I get to Evendim, the better!
After a visit to the dwarf halls, I showed the pair around the Refuge of Edhelion. For the first time since we departed Bree, Ry seemed relax a little, taking some time to sit and rest, and it looked like Millie quite enjoyed the opportunity to have a nosey at the plants and carvings. It added some time onto my aches, of course, but it was certainly worth the detour! I had wanted to see this place again myself, to take a closer look. I'm glad that they got that chance too.
I still haven't had chance to speak with him alone, but I will do so sooner or later.
