[Bêthberry]

Bethberry sat beside Adanedhel, deep in conversation about shared adventures in the past and this new threat here in Edoras.

"Indeed, Adanedhel, the thieves entered Edoras itself, and took the horses from the Inn's very stable. We have not yet heard back from those who pursued. It is my understanding that The Golden Hall may start a special watch, but I know not for sure. Would you be willing to take up such employment here, if you will stay awhile?"

While Bethberry waited for the Dark Warrior to think of the offer, she thought back to the dwarf's tale of The Burning Book. He seemed to be anxious to leave, that dwarf did, yet his story lingered on in her memory. She wondered what more stories he could tell. Perhaps she could delay his departure, or at the very least, engage him in a promise to return.

Her attention was called away by the conversation which had developed among Culoth, Smith and Éorlan. It was good to see that developing. In the back of her mind, she hope that Deorlin would return soon with the horse pursuers and be able to take those drawings up to the Hall. Then she noticed the dark stranger and warily watched him for some time.

"Excuse me," she said to Adanedhel, "I just remembered something I must attend to."

So saying, the Innkeeper rose and approached Susan. "Susan, your worries merit a good-natured laugh. Your presence here, no matter how tardy, is quite appreciated. I wonder if you would keep an eye on that dark stranger we have here, the one with the gloved hand. Perhaps you could chat him up and see where lies his business? We would be wise to keep an eye on strangers, without troubling them grievously."

As she spoke, Bethberry glanced over at Hirilaelin, wondering how she was doing.