Parnard

And after miles of almost emptiness, they finally come across a Goblin camp. Estarfin, Danel and Parnard do not hesitate to clear the way, but reluctantly leave the far less experienced Marawendi some distance from them. And after the immediate path is cleared, they all take a short rest in what appears to be an old library. Parnard takes the first watch. 

The group continue in their slow and difficult traversing of the old Dwarven realm. Narrow bridges, steep stairs, and always an oppressive darkness over what was once a most beautiful place. But the Dwarven ideal of beauty has more to do with caves and mines than the elven ideal. 

Marawendi does well for one so young and inexperienced, but she is obviously scared. At least the situation seems to have diverted Parnard's thought from Brasseniel for the moment. 

With the Hithaeglir more dangerous to cross on their return journey due to the thaw, and likelyhood of a larger number of goblins above ground, the group decide to travel through Moria. Maybe a wise decision, maybe not?

They have heard the rumours of a Balrog in the depths. but wonder at the accuracy of the tale. It is sure to be a home to goblins and orcs, but at least it shouldnt be slippery? 

Danel has traveled through a few areas in her days as a Mirdan, but that was many yeni past, and there may have been cave-ins or rockfalls. 

Danel returns from checking the horses with Estarfin, to find Parnard on the floor, unable to get up. The Wood-Elf is totally inebriated. No matter how she tries, even threatening a purge with a salt and egg 'cocktail, Danel cannot stir her friend. Then Marawendi arrives, thinking of introducing herself to the Nolde she hopes will train her, only to be brought into the 'getting Parnard to stop drowning his sorrows' endeavor. 

Danel and Estarfin try to support the distraught Parnard. There is little they can actually do save listen to their friend's distress. Estarfin offers to spar with him, but that is not to the Wood Elf's taste. He sinks into his bottles of wine. The two Noldor think it best to return home soon. Parnard agrees.