Tidings sweep in like sand over fallen warriors; in no particular order do I plan to list them out! I have seen so much, spoken to so many, and felt an abundance of feelings in these past few days. I may just run out of parchment if I am not careful!
Where to begin? Sairona, in an attempt to assist with the interpretation and vanquishing of the dreams that haunt my nights, suggested I should go away from the house and try to get lost in my old lifestyle again. She offered me a place for safety if needed, a hideout in the gigantic lake to the north, Evendim. We were paused by an apprehensive man (Tilton) before traveling to another portion of town. I digress! I am seriously considering this proposal, but I am not sure it is wise after coming back so soon from a trip and getting to see everyone again. However, I long to feel free from the constraints of this busy world, to feel the wind blow upon my face and taste the air, with nothing but the sounds of the wild to grace my ears. To kill my meal and cozy up to a warm fire, enjoying the moonlight as I lay to rest! Such a dreamy state to imagine.
In addition to her assistance, I have the pleasure of meeting Israa, the alchemist of Near Harad. She has offered much to me for so little time knowing her: remedies, advice, and suggestions! I may take her drinks and try them, for my people have always regarded such concoctions as legend. We shall see, then, if they are worthwhile. She provided me with tomes and volumes of knowledge of this land of Evendim, though I did not reveal to her it was for traveling purposes. Israa herself is an interesting character, and I hope to learn more about her as time goes on.
Thanks to her, I am learning much about this odd, forgotten land, and it sounds quite exquisite. If only the Bree-landers lived in a city like the one upon this great lake, perhaps they would have less trouble. I imagine their culture would be wildly different, perhaps even more dangerous, if they were awash with such splendor and greatness. A city like that reminds of the towering spires of Near Harad, and any who walk within such walls know of the dangers that hide under its gleaming figures. There is always something that you may want in a city like that, though, and I know it to be true. The first time I saw the interior of such a city, I was shocked. I did not know there were Haradrim of such capability: it filled me with a sense of pride when I realized our many peoples were devoted to so many different things.
Then, I encountered Israa and Lumina at the market stalls near the Boar Fountain. There, I was able to meet both at once, and present the gift I had prepared to Lumina for her wedding to Leoffrith. It was a bone charm meant to protect their union, and she seemed to enjoy the entire premise. I am glad she would take the charm, as I missed her occasion due to flooding that held up our caravan of goods. The river was so high from the rain, I did not think I would even make it home for a week! But we were simply a day later than the wedding, which means little. Lumina was okay, and she did not seem bothered by it.
Then, upon searching for my market stall and the assistant hired to watch over it, I encountered Maudey and Fye creating a storm at the Stair. Of course, it is Maud who is trying to sell a rock to people as Fye contains her anarchistic tendencies, but I am delighted to see her enjoying life as a child regardless. A brief altercation occurred where Fye accosted me, threatening me with all manner of words as to the kinds of things I am teaching Maud about, and for once I was genuinely intimidated. I always admired the hardiness of these Bree-landers when it comes to work and toil, but it is the poorer families that know true hardship, and Fye is somehow so powerful despite her position as a woman in this society. I think she is a great example for Maud, though she is worried about the girl's development as a person. I am of the belief that Maud will grow up safe, sound and even better than she would have been without my presence! If not, I should expect a thrashing from Fye at any time of day. She meant it.
There! I am finished. I will look back upon these writings some day, especially if I feel alone, and remember that I am surrounded by so many interesting and exciting peoples.
