As Elfnere led us into Lornsettle, the Forlaw mead hall, the conversation hushed as hardened eyes fell upon us. The Thane paid no attention and strode deliberately to the head table, where the Reeve and Cyneberg also regarded us cooly. They exchanged customary pleasantries which ended with Elfnere introducing me. “Thank you for receiving me”, I offered with a curtsey.
“Although I do not recall inviting you”, the elderly Reeve responded, “the Thane Elfnere is always welcome in my Hall, and as he accompanies you….”, he left the statement hang as a question as he eyed my privileged companion. Elfnere summarized my actions in Scylfig.
“And what brings an Elf so far to Wildermore to involve herself in our affairs?”, Cyneberg asked, her arms crossed, her jaw set, and her unblinking eyes searching my face.
“Tis not only here that wizardly interference disrupts the lives of peaceful folk”, I answered evenly. “Such things are of serious concern to all of Middle Earth.”
“And how do we know these threats are not from Elven lands, and that you have not enthralled one of our Thanes?”, Cyneberg pressed.
Elfnere raised his hand to interrupt me as I formulated an answer. “My lady Cyneberg, I think you know me better than that.” Something unspoken passed between them, and she averted her eyes. With her ears reddened, she muttered “Yes, I suppose I do.”
The Reeve Garsig cleared his throat. “And what, Thane Elfnere, do you and your companion propose to do here?”
“We are here to assist in any way that we can, my lord”, Elfenere responded with a slight bow. “I have left my troop at Scylfig to reinforce their remaining guardsman, but I am sure there is something we may do here.” He switched his gaze between the Reeve and Cyneberg.
“Yes, there is”, Cyneberg answered. “Others have arrived to accompany us in our endeavors. You may wish to continue our search for my beloved Thrymm.” Elfnere stiffened at the mention of that name, which brought a sly grin to Cyenberg’s lips. “His body has not been found, and I take that to mean he is still alive. You can begin at his farm at....”.
“I know well where his farm is, my lady. We will head there immediately and report back as soon as we have news.”
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