[Thenamir]

“Stay, Baranthôl,” said Thenamir quietly but sharply. “You are badly wounded, and there is no need to draw weapons against a lone traveller because he happens to share our road – but keep a watchful eye.” He turned – still painfully – to Ulfwine. “Do you know of any dwarf-kind in your ex-master’s service?”

“Absolutely not,” replied Ulfwine. “Borleg would side with the Great Goblin himself before he’d work with dwarves.”

“Good,” replied Thenamir. “Dernwine, let us go discover his business, and whether he can help us. Do not draw weapons, but be watchful.” Dernwine nodded, and motioned for Gurthrin to join them. Gurthrin hesitated only a moment before spurring his mount lightly towards the dwarven cart and its lone occupant.

Dwarin was a bit taken aback when three of the party approached and surrounded him, but none had given any sign of agression and all, except Gurthrin, seemed to be relatively at ease. Thenamir drew still nearer into the full light of Dwarin’s lantern to show he had no ill intent. “Friend dwarf,” began Thenamir, “I am Thenamir of Rohan, and we are indeed as you see men of the Mark, with whom you claim friendship. We were waylaid a short time ago by a renegade band of Dunlendings who we believe have some purpose against our land and our king. We have are travelling back to our land with several wounded among us, including our captain. We could use any skill you might have in tending wounds or the healing arts. Lacking that, if your errand is not pressing perhaps there is room in your cart for some of our wounded to ride more comfortably. Your help would be most gratefully appreciated.”