The Road to Erebor RPG

[maikafanawen]

Surprised and amazed at the sudden appearance of Bali’s recruit, Ani Dao watched as the Gondorians took out orcs and then disposed of the goblins that appeared out of nowhere. Putting away her sword, she checked for any wounds on herself. Finding only a few cuts, she smiled triumphantly. When the enemy survivors retreated back into the woods, she went down to examine the wagon. Bali was explaining the damage to the rest of company.

"Well, we must weigh our options. I doubt that we can fix it, as the axle is broken off. We may have to complete the journey to Rivendell on foot, us dwarves. For the horses are safe, and some can ride." This statement was greeted by many growns.
"However, we cannot take the wagon or horses to the Caradhras. We would have left them at Rivendell, anyway. Thus, this will not slow us up that much. Meanwhile, I would like the Gondorians to watch the camp, while the rest of us go and get provisions and firewood. We must make our current supplies last us until Rivendell."

Before going to find food and firewood, Ani Dao went around to the back of Weathertop to retrieve three of her throwing knives. Finding them in the backs on two orcs, and the neck of another, she attached them to her belt. The smell of the dead orcs was disgusting, but there were too many to bury. Going back to Bali she asked him if they should burn them.

“Perhaps. Go help them gather some food and what not for now. We’ll take care of them later,” said the dwarf pointing the group that had just gone in search for provisions. The elf nodded and began to walk towards the wood. Remembering suddenly the pack of things she had received from Kemi, she quickly went to find her horse and show Bali what she had.

Uesse was grazing by himself a little ways off, Ani Dao’s saddlebag was still intact. On approaching him, the horse lifted his head and trotted over to where the elf stood. She reached up to scratch behind his ear, then moved around to the side to get the food, herbs, and other things. Unclasping the bag, she patted Uesse’s rump and he walked over to join the rest of the horses.

Ani Dao ran back to Bali to show him the supplies. Pulling out each thing she identified them.

“Here are some medicines too. This one stops bleeding, and … this one will suck out poison.” There were many others as well useful for diseases and such. Setting them on the rock between her and the dwarf, she emptied the pack. Bali examined them approvingly.

“These will be very helpful.” Ani Dao smiled and replaced them back into the tough leather sack. Then she remembered the stones. Her eyes must have flashed with realization because Bali gave her a questioned look. Excitedly, she with drew the pouch of precious stones. Dumping the contents on the bare rock, she explained the powers of each one.

“I got these from a friend in Bree. This one,” said Ani Dao, pointing to the dark blue one, “is from the dwarves of Erebor, who lived in the Lonely Mountain from ancient times. It will bring our company hope and courage.” Moving to the light green one she explained, “This is from Thranduil and it will bring one stealth and secrecy.” Finally, she pointed towards the gold one. “This one is most precious for it was said to have been wrought by Elbereth Githoniel herself and it will bring one wisdom. Using this stone will help one decide what to do in a tough situation.” Pleased with her treasures, she looked at Bali. He nodded in surprise.

“Who was this friend that gave you these?” He asked touching each one carefully.

“Her name is Kementurien, she owns the apothecary there. I met her before on my way to the Shire. I don’t know how she came upon them or why she chose to give them to me, but here they are anyways, and a good thing too.” Remembering the warning the earth master had given her she added, “They may be used by anyone who holds them, so if they are stolen … and they’re only allowed to be used once, for then their power fades.” Bali nodded, still amazed by the gems. Ani Dao shrugged and put them back in the pouch, then stuffed it down her tunic.

“Keep them safe,” said Bali, “and don’t tell anyone else.” The elf nodded and left to find some firewood.