[Airerûthiel]

Neisa gave a small smile - the first genuine expression that had been seen on her face all day. Already she liked Herlion, although she did not know him too well. "Come with me to meet my friends," she said. "I am sure they will make you as welcome as they made me. To drink alone is disheartening, to drink with others is companionable, and a drink and a tale is ten times better, as my father used to say."

She ordered another jug of ale from a passing serving girl, and asked for it to be brought to their table. Then she and Herlion walked back to where the others were seated. He did not say much, but she had seen the look of a tale-teller in his eyes. No doubt he had many stories to tell when he got going.

The rest of the group were deep in conversation as Neisa and Herlion returned. The pair took seats on the bench and Neisa made the introductions. "Firramer and Eohsecg of Rohan, Nurumaiel of the Rivendell Elves, and Talômi and Rie of the Rangers. This is Herlion of Rohan. I trust there are no objections to his joining our table?"

There was none, only a chorus of greetings and questions. Neisa took the jug of ale from the serving girl and began to pour the drink into flagons. "So, Herlion," she said, "please tell us more about yourself."