[piosenniel]

The Farroweeds

Big Tom stood at the back of the crowd. His mutterings were loud enough that many of those around him were well aware of his thoughts on the situation. And a number of the other Big Folk men could be seen nodding their heads ‘yes’ in agreement with him.

‘First those . . . hobbits,’ he had spat out, as if they were a soured gobbet of spittle that needed getting rid of. ‘And now these rag-tag critters from the north! Want to take our land’s what I says.’ Several of the outlying farmers could be heard muttering their own ‘That’s right!’ back to him. ‘Traipsing in with their sorry spawn in tow.’ He looked about the small crowd that had gathered to hear him. ‘Make us feel sorry for them, they will. Then when we’re all cozy with the idea of them being here, the men folk’ll sneak in and slit our throats while we’re sleeping.’

Letty, standing near, opened her mouth to speak, then closed it tight in a grim line. No amount of talking would penetrate that thick skull of her husband. Will was by her side, his gaze fixed on the toes of his boots to hide the crimson that flooded his cheeks from his father’s words. ‘No need to be ashamed for that old man,’ Letty said, speaking low to her youngest son. She put her fingers underneath his chin and raised it up. ‘Those are his words and he’s the one’ll have to eat them.’

‘Now we’ve got things to do,’ she continued, gathering the rest of her sons and daughters about her. ‘Some of these folk can barely walk; much less carry their wee ones.’ She motioned her five sons to come closer. ‘You boys get down there and help the ones who need it get up to the Inn. Carry some of the littler ones so’s they don’t fall behind. Just tell Miz Lilac you’re there to help.’ She turned to her two daughters. ‘You and me are high-tailing it up to the Inn. We’ll let them know Miz Andreth is coming and to clear one of the big rooms for these folks to sit down in. Elli, you and Bettony, go into the kitchen and help cook get another kettle of soup going, and tell her we’ll need some plain broth for those as can’t yet stomach the heartier food. I’ll get some of the other women folk who live nearby to come over and help – bring some extra clothes their kids have outgrown, and a blanket, if they can spare one.’ There was a steely purpose in her eye as she glanced over to where Big Tom was still ‘holding court’.

‘Now git moving boys,’ she said pointing toward the huddle of refugees. ‘And you girls follow me . . .’