9th of Víressë, Calendar of Númenor.
True to his word Ned returned with assistance. An Elf, a Man and a Dwarf. Almost like the start of a bad joke.. Introductions were not formally offered, though I recall the Dwarf later offering introduction in the traditional way of their people, his name was Balnirar. I offered them what little I’d seen over the last two days in the field. The ruins were surely garrisoned, but by no more than a dozen Orcs. What worried me was they’re confidence and ability to wander freely without fear of recompense. To say many of my kinsmen stalk the wilds north of Bree and beyond casts this fearlessness in a truly poor light.
We wasted little time, and struck the ruins the Orcs had taken as a stronghold whilst the sun had yet to peer through the clouds. A small skirmished followed by a closer melee than I fear any of us had wished. We counted eight dead by th combats end, amongst which was an Uruk of somekind. Such are the times. Balnirar served his kinsmen proud and fought bravely by my side whilst the others fought separate person combats. Truly you can always rely upon a Dwarf to hold a shield, and his nerve, when the need calls upon them. I’ll be sure to pass my commendations onto Maldurin during out next encounter.
Eogar can be counted amongst those offering shelter on a raining night. I plan to hold him to his word on that account. One good turn deserves another after all.
In regard to the missing horses however we had little good news for Eogar. They’d been traded with someone from bree-land. Likely as not bandits, claiming bree-made arms and armour as those of a famous smith. I plan to speak with folk throughout Bree and her surrounding village to see if anyone has heard word of a score of more warhorses for sale. Such a thing would be rare for the village, even during these odd times.
Rafel, Stablehand.
Saerias, Vagabond.
