Thangúlhad

The next day I came to see the Lieutenant, who was recovered from his wound, and he shared gladsome news. The filthy Orc were finally beaten back and scattered into the woods, for now; no doubt, they would gather their strength again, and assail the fortress. Our losses were great, but not as great as I imagined.

I had spent several weeks as the Lieutenant’s soldier-page, and was almost driven mad from boredom, when late one night, as I lay disconsolate on my cot, I heard the horns a-blowing. The Lieutenant leapt up, seized his bow, and telling me to come with him, ran outside the tent. The Enemy was attacking at last!

Several weeks later, I was interrupted in my duties for the Lieutenant Handelen and notified that Rodelleth wished to speak with me. I knew not to dally or put the guard off, so I set out immediately for the commander’s large tent. There Rodelleth did tell me that she had written notice to the Captain of the King’s Guard informing them of Culufinnel leaving her ranks and the circumstances of his departure.

I have been taken to a dark cell in the uppermost parts of the central keep of Nothgar. It is very tedious to hear voices speaking far below and be unable to converse with anyone. I suspect that I am the only person shut in here, but it is impossible to know as the guards refuse to talk. My bedding consists of two blankets and a straw mattress, and the ventilation is exceedingly defective, and the air damp.

I was selected by Captain Lomdognir to send word to Thangúlhad Fortress via letter. He said that I am perfect for this errand, and told me not to loiter, but to ride straightaway. One of his men remarked that this should not be a problem, as there are no roadside taverns from Ost Galadh to Thangúlhad, which made the Captain laugh. He is in surprisingly good spirits and seems to have forgotten about his irritation with me last night.