The Shire treated their elven and human guests well; Krystic and Skrayper enjoyed the hearty food and lively spirits of the hobbits they met during their stay. Even though Pumpernickle was guaranteed a job in the Scary Quarry, as her family had worked there for generations, the hobbit maiden instead pursued her living in the art of gardening and cooking. Aluris was happy to teach her a few tricks of the trade, and before long they were helping each other with the harvest and combining some of their recipes in hopes of livening up the competition for the best pie contest at the seasonal festivals. Skrayper offered to help out in the Scary Quarry during their visit, in hopes of acquiring the materials needed to repair his and Krystic’s armor before their journey to Bree. Krystic helped Pumpernickle with her gardening, and even learned a few simple herbal recipes from Herbil. All in all, the trip and the visit helped to ensure to the Matriarchs of the Valehaven Family that she was safe and ready to continue on with her journey to fight by her sister’s side.
The morn SKrayper and Krystic had decided to leave, Pumpernickle made sure that their packs were filled with healthy and hearty provisions that would last them as far as Bree. She warned them about the dangers of the Old Forest, and after hearing some of the gossip spreading from Buckland, recommended that they simply don’t stray far from the road. Brigand sightings were becoming more frequent, and that made the hobbitess worry over their safety. Aluris joined the trio as they made their way towards Buckland, and even treated them to a small lunch at the Golden Perch when they passed through Stock. Krystic was so fond of Pumpernickle, as the two maidens practically grew up together; she refused to believe that this would be their final farewell. Aluris promised to never tell anyone how long it took to console his new friend when Skrayper and Krystic disappeared over the horizon…
