S.A 1350
Lady Lanyarë implored her husband and son to delay their journey back to Harlond by a couple of days. It seemed a shame to leave the city so soon after their long and arduous journey, especially since they could all benefit from a much-needed rest. Mistamë in particular had suffered from lack of sleep and proper nourishment for weeks. She pointed out that the search might only take a few days, if they were lucky. What difference would it make to wait just a little longer? Mannamo relented, but he entrusted a letter to a group of travellers heading west, asking them to deliver it to Mantaro. He wanted his son to know that they would take care of Mistamë and that he need not worry.
As they entered the city, their Noldo heritage granted them a warm welcome. Orneth gazed in awe at the beautiful surroundings. White buildings adorned every street and a towering structure rose up in the center, its banner fluttering proudly atop the spire. It was likely the city's banner, she thought.
The streets of Eregion were a sight to behold, adorned with statues of warriors holding spears and tools of skilled craftsmen. It was clear that these were tributes to the Prince. After ensuring the horses and wagons were safely stabled, they entered the main city on foot. The narrow road was paved with marble bricks, and on either side, a vibrant alley of red roses welcomed them. As they reached the main plaza, the entrances were adorned with ivy, emitting a sweet and spicy scent that tingled the senses. The city was illuminated by the warm rays of the sun, bouncing off the ivory-white walls of every building. And in the center of the plaza, there stood a magnificent fountain, with a glistening gold statue of Prince Celebrimbor.
But Eregion was much more than a beautiful city; it boasted vast halls of craftsmen, mainly smiths, who showcased their works in crafting stations and vendor stands. One could find an abundance of weapons, shields, jewelry, and housing items, all of which were expertly crafted. The streets were bustling with Noldor, tall and striking, adorned in their finest garb.
Lord Mannamo and his family were placed in one of the guesthouses not too far from the center of the city. The guesthouse was nothing short of magnificent, with five rooms, one for each if they so desired.
The following day, they set out to explore the city and ponder ways to find Manyamë. Marilo chose to venture alone, while Lord Mannamo and Lady Lanyarë searched together. Orneth and young Mistamë went on their own quest, wandering through the woods that surrounded the city. They took pleasure in honing their archery skills, finding solace in the quiet and peace of the forest. Despite their fatigue and weariness from the long journey, practicing their archery was their way of unwinding before they delved into more serious matters.
In the evenings, as the sun descended beyond the horizon and cast the sky in hues of pink and orange, they gathered at the long table in the rest area. They ate dinner together, sharing stories of their search and their adventures. Despite mostly disappointing results, they were all determined to persevere in their quest.
Marilo spoke animatedly of the maiden he had met, who had shown him around the city and helped him in his search. Her name was Simawen. The group listened intently, hanging onto his every word, and Lady Lanyarë was pleased to hear of his determination. But Orneth couldn't help but feel a twinge of hurt. Who wouldn't be charmed by someone like Marilo? He was not only physically attractive and charming, but possessed a certain tenderness mixed with an air of authority that undoubtedly captured the attention of many a lady.
All pictures aree AI-generated from Microsoft Bing DALL·E
