Today I awoke after dawn to see my two new friends already preparing for the rest of our journey to Bree. It seemed that Blackberry managed a good night's sleep, and even took in most of a carrot and a bowl of water for breakfast. I'm glad I decided to peel and slice a few taters after camp and soak them in a bucket of water overnight. That's the key with fried taters - a little boil or soak before frying. Pan fried tater slices with some eggs and a pinch of seasoning made a hearty and comforting meal for the morning.
Our journey wasn't too much further but we set out early regardless. Mister Rovenon led the caravan, followed by Miss Brynleigh and Blackberry, and myself with Jim and the cart at the rear. The satisfaction of a full belly complemented the pleasant weather. It was a beautiful day. A day where the clouds hide the sun just enough for comfort, and the cool breezes come with scents of an autumn that will soon no longer be. It was a brief journey, and Mister Rovenon seemed to depart us nearly a mile from the western gate. A queer man, but a good man he is.
Miss Brynleigh and I headed toward the Prancing Pony where we stabled Blackberry. Mister Butterbeer was certainly most hospitable, even offering that fantastic buttery ale free of charge while allowing us to host Blackberry. I was again assured she'd be tended to until proper care could be given, and was invited by Miss Brynleigh to some sort of Yule Ball in the meantime. These Big Folk surprise me more and more. First the Market and now a Ball? It seems more like home than I would've thought, though much larger and dirtier.
The Ball was in the village of Stonebury at a local Inn. I noticed a large amount of horses and carriages, so I tied Jim to a nearby post. The Inn was festive and the party lively. Decorations of holly and spruce with reds and greens took my initial attention, though the aroma of sausage and roasted meats was a close second. Entering the main hall seemed rather intimidating, as the amount of Big Folk inside was threefold that of that horses outside, but a lovely band was performing on stage and an empty dance floor provided a minor means of entering in a normal fashion. Overhearing conversations of food and drink made me wander to find them, not without having to dodge the carelessness of Big Folk bumping into me. It wasn't their fault, as I suspect their expectation for child sized beings attending potentially imbibing and debaucherous events is rather low. But, the ale was good, despite a line for it that seemed to move rather slowly. Though a glimpse and smile from Miss Brynleigh as I waited made it worth the while. I ordered two ales given the wait, but the barman brought one of the largest mugs the Inn seemed to offer. It's been too long since two of these hands were required to grip a mug of brew.
The main hall seemed crowded as I returned, and it was perhaps a few pints drunk and full bellies that inspired the Big Folk to dance more now than before. I found an empty chair in the corner next to a lonely looking Big Folk. His hair was freshly combed and he adorned attire that was a most peaceful shade of green which reminded me of home. Something about him gave off an impression of friendliness. Perhaps his lone nature of observing in the corner from afar, or merely offering me his own handkerchief after my spilling of ale on my robes was what felt welcoming about him. Mister Hagley was his name. Queerest accent on this side of the Brandywine so far, but still one of the nicest Big Folk. We were briefly joined by Mister Rovenon, who as it turns out, is an Elf! I dare say those hoods and masks can be deceiving. It could explain why Tin Rock, to which I've learned is pronounced Tinnuroch, was such a fast and noble steed, belonging to an Elf an all.
Alas, my ale was finished and the hour late. Mister Hagley gave me directions to his house should I ever desire an ale and conversation, and I offered a small sack of my autumn leaf. I found a place to change into my traveling clothes and departed back to Bree. The Pony is quiet tonight. Rightfully so with half of Bree in Stonebury, but it's nice and peaceful. My legs and feet are still sore, and now a pain in my back is coming in - most certainly from riding and camping. A comfy bed at the Inn tonight is just what I need, but with priorities in place I must say goodnight to Blackberry and then drink one more ale.
