The White Horse Inn, Act III

[littlemanpoet]

"Who are you?" Saeryn whispered fearfully, looking into Bêthberry's face. Gudryn's small hand went to her mouth, her eyes widening. Saeryn's eyes closed and she drifted into an uneasy slumber.

"Lost her memory? Not good," Eodwine said.

"Excuse me, but I have some skill at healing. Can I help?" A lass with dark hair and a smooth, heartshaped face, touched Saeryn's sleeve.

"Only with her bruise, unless you can bring her memory back," Eodwine replied. "Your offer is welcome, I deem. I am Eodwine of the Gap."

"I am Risse. Emerisse. Of Gondor."

Bêthberry said, "Your skills are welcome, Risse of Gondor. Eodwine, bring her to her room."

Eodwine picked her up and followed Bêthberry's lead, Risse of Gondor and Gudryn walking side by side behind Eodwine. When Saeryn had been laid abed, Bêthberry shooed Eodwine out of the room; Gudryn stayed close beside him.

"Lady Bêthberry, I would that you knew somewhat of what I have learned today regarding Gudryn's ruffian."

"My patience has been tried this day, waiting for you to come back and tell me what you have learned. Out with it, man of the Gap!"

Eodwine smiled at the rough speech that covered the look of deep concern on the Innkeeper's face. "This Rand is known by some of the scouts at Meduseld. He lives in the northeastern edge of Rohan, a leader of brigands by all accounts, nigh to the wold. He is a land holder there and is jealous of all his possessions. If any are taken from him, he brooks no quarter in chasing down the thief. I have it from these scouts that we can trust he is on his way to Edoras to retrieve Gudryn." At that, Eodwine put a protective hand around Gudryn's shoulder.

"No wonder the lass is staying so close to you."

"Aye," Eodwine nodded. "I hope Harreld and Garreth return soon. What have you heard of Hama? Has he returned? Do you expect him back?"