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dreamdancer
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: October 31, 2005 06:30
"Here," he said, and handed the boy a sturdy dagger. "Hide this well, lad," the half-elf told him. "Your sword would be remarked - but I don't want you unarmed while we're out and about

Nell took the dagger wordlessly, touched by the kindness of the captain. She had not brought the sword out with her, and she quickly hid the dagger inside a spare coat that she had been given.

The morning was getting late when they headed for the market. Nell stayed close to Gareth at his word as they went- though she didn't need a command to do so. She was still very wary of the streets of Umbar.

When they began bartering their wares, Gareth often asked Nell- Niel- if she thought the price was fair, or far from the mark. She would answer as well as she could, of course, quite willing to help the half-elf in any way that she could.

---

Naden had helped in the unloading, but had no intention of helping as the others headed to the market. He was getting ready to head off to the taverns for more 'listening', first taking a quick smoke on the deck of the Elanor V. As he stood, musing over his thoughts, he caught sight of ships coming in- and as they drew nearer, he thought he recognized the corsair fleet that their own ship had met the day before. As he stood, watching the ships come in, he thought suddenly that, if anyone, this would probably be the captain who would lead the assault. And a valuable source for information.
Putting out the pipe, he slipped off the ship, mentioning to Dauron that he was going to do some more listening, and moved to the docks, waiting and watching. After a good length of time had passed he finally saw the captain disembarking, and as soon as the man had gotten himself off the ship and in the streets, Naden followed.

He stayed a good distance behind, glancing in the windows and doors of various shops as he passed them but never letting the 'quarry' out of his sight. The man was walking with four others who looked ready to pounce on anyone who looked at their captain wrong...

They ended up going into a tavern, and following, Naden set himself near without even glancing in their direction, entering about five minutes after they had. He ordered a meal and ate silently, listening to their chatter. The captain didn't speak much, but his men did- mostly about things of little interest- most of the time was spent with the younger crewman sharing the story of how his brother managed to sink a boat by accident and lose a hoarde of stolen fruit in the process.
The ranger was about to give up when the conversation suddenly turned to the assault. As the men's voices lowered he wished for Gareth's ears, having to strain his own without bringing notice to himself.

It was as he was leaning back and draining the last bit of cider out of his mug that the 'bad' news was brought up- and when he heard it it was all he could do to keep from spewing out his drink all over the table.
The date set for the attack on Gondor had been moved up- the corsairs needed only one more month to prepare!
He winced inwardly when he also learned that their tale about damage from the storm had lead to that decision...

Now it was more than urgent- he needed to get back as soon as he could! Before he stood, the others did, and heard the captain say that he had a meeting to get to- with the captain of another fleet. Naden bit back his curse. What for? To plan? To gain more soldiers and more ships? No, he couldn't go back to the Elanor V yet, not yet... if such a drastic change in plans had been made, there was no telling what else had been changed. He had to find out...

As soon as the others had left, he went out after them, seeing them down the street and following as discreetly as he was able. By then, the sun was climbing toward noon.
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 01, 2005 08:23
Dauron remained on the ship when Gareth and Niel left to head for the markets with some of the goods they were preparing to sell. The group of sailors that had not joined Gareth, carrying the wares, still left a sufficient number on board for Dauron's needs. Gathering Bernor and a few men to his side, he advised them of what their mission was to be. They needed fruits and vegetables, dried would be fine. They needed a few live pigs for slaughtering to meet the needs of their meat intake and a goat or a cow for milk. Salt, flour, sugar were necessities. Tea if at all possible. And kegs of water and ale.

The Captain of the Flying Gull set the remaining sailors to watches, with one chosen to run to find either Gareth or Dauron should there be the need. Bernor it was who tapped Dauron on the shoulder, pointing out to sea to the arriving Corsair ships. Both men watched the ships tie up at the docks, looking at each other with understanding. They had little time left is what their eyes said to one another. It was a good thing they were sailing tonight. Dauron was gathering the men together to leave for the markets when Naden sidled up to him, advising him that he was going to do a little more eavesdropping on the Corsair sailors, jerking his head towards the lead ship's Captain, who was preparing to disembark as the two stood watching.

"Be careful, my friend. And be certain to be back by evening as you will be needed to help with the preparations for setting sail late this night. We'll need every hand we can find." Shortly after Naden had set off behind the Corsair Captain and his men, Dauron and his men also made their way through the streets, looking for the supplies they would need.

Haggling with the vendors in the markets was much the same as his bargaining with the barkeeper had been. They began with an unheard of price, he began with pennies on the pound. Eventually, they settled for a final price, though many of the vendors had been receiving more than usual from the Corsair sailors as they too loaded their ships, so Dauron knew at times he was paying more than the product was worth. But little time remained and the supplies were necessary to make it home. He grumbled to Bernor as the gold in his pockets became lighter and lighter to carry.

"Gareth is going to owe me his life and his first born child at this rate." he chuckled, his humor surfacing even as his aggravation at the expenses grew.

Both he and Bernor listened to whatever gossip and rumor they could pick up, one of which was the increase in demands from the Corsair ships. This did not sound good to either of the northern sailors. Eyeing each other, they were both glad they were sneaking out of this city sooner than planned.

It was late afternoon, the sun already falling into the west behind clouds that had been forming over the sea, when the group returned to the ElanorV, lugging carts full of barrells, cages and bags. As they lowered them below deck through the hatch, sailors below stored them into their rightful places, tying them down when necessary, laying out hay for the bovine and hatches for the chickens, storying the galley items in the pantry area next to it. Dauron oversaw the work but was really keeping an eye on the streets, looking for both Gareth and Niel and also Naden to return. The dock area was full of activity near the Corsair ships, sailors there coming and going much as his own were here. That, along with what they had heard during the day made things looked more immediate to Dauron than a three month from now attack. He was anxious to talk to Gareth and Naden.
Life is good! Live it to the fullest. Love well those near and dear. "You cannot step into the same river twice, for the waters are ever flowing on ....." Heraclitus I Aear cân ven na mar
gwendeth
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 01, 2005 10:35
To the half-elven fisherman's relief, by midafternoon everything they'd brought from the Elanor V had been sold.

Most of it had gone quickly... in particular, the wares from 'Trader Naden'. By dint of 'promoting' them as 'Northern breeds', the fish were (at last) gone, too. With a smile to the lad, Gareth turned to Niel and thanked him heartily for the assistance.

Setting Allon in charge of the few sailors who'd accompanied them, and sending them back to the ship, it was then time to see about re-outfitting the newest crewmember of the small fishing vessel.

"Come with me, Niel," Gareth said, and began browsing the shops lining the wide market square. In one shop, was found a good, sturdy pair of boots. Which, though steep, the Elanor's Captain happily handed over the gold for.

A few places down, were made other purchases, and by the time the sun began to set, Gareth was quite pleased. To the boots had been added two pairs of trousers... double that of shirts, and a few other necessities that he'd decided Niel should have. More, the half-elf stated, they'd get in Dol Amroth - once they returned home... and ignoring that that eventuality might be difficult to make happen.

And then, insisting that Niel change into his new clothing right away, Gareth waited for the boy to reappear... and then eyed him critically.

Grey trous and a shirt that actually fit the youth's slender form... the black leather boots... and a green woolen (and quite well-made) tunic topped it off. A new cloak (that matched the boots) had been added as well... and under which Gareth suspected the dagger had been hid, and he nodded.

"You look well, Niel," he said, and then glancing at the sky, "We should be getting back..." the half-elven Captain was commenting, when something he did not expect to see, caught Gareth's eyes...

(( teehee ok dd... you're on!! I wonder what Gareth will see... :evil: ))
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
dreamdancer
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 01, 2005 12:13
Following the men Naden ended up in another tavern, this one with dim light and less crowded. As he breezed through the door he felt a stab of worry at seeing that- he would stick out more- but he had no choice.

The captain was already seated with another one dressed simlarly, and the ranger guessed it was the man he was meeting. Sighing, he sat down as close as he dared- near the hearth, seeming to seek warmth from the fire- and listened.

They talked for some time, but he learned nothing new as he sipped at his cider- the second mug that day, and he was getting sick of the taste, but he didn't want to risk clouding his mind or dimming his hearing with ale- save more talk about various things, and the repeat of what he already knew. The four other men soon joined the conversation, and it became lively as the story of the sinking boat was told again. Another man piped up with his own tale, and the subject of war seemed forgotten.

The day was wearing away when suddenly Naden became aware that the men had stopped speaking. He wondered what had happened and sipped at the cider, listening, but they said no word. Slowly he turned to glance over his shoulder in their direction-- and saw all six faces turned in his direction, none of them friendly.
"Just a sick fisherman are you?" The captain remarked darkly, and Naden felt his heart sink as he fought the impulse to get up and run as fast as he could.
"That's right," he replied.
"You've followed us by chance, then?"
Before the ranger could think up a response, the four crewmen were out of their seats and heading his way. He jumped up and hurled his mug at one of them, turning to flee as he heard the dish breaking and a cry of pain. He knew he couldn't take on a group that large alone-- but as he came to the door one blocked his way, having gone around. Naden lashed out with his fist, drawing his sword with the other hand . After delivering a nasty cut to the offender's arms he managed to shove his way past, only to be tackled from behind as soon as he stepped out of the door. The sword left his grasp and he found himself in a feirce brawl with the remaining three, one who's forhead was bloody from the shattered mug. He managed to get one man down and under him, raining down blows, getting knocked off and kicked, scrambling to his feet and looking wildly for his sword, recoiling when a fist connected with his jaw...

The fight was one he couldn't win, and of course no one in the street stepped in to help the 'sailor from Dol Amroth'- many stopped to watch or hurried on by without sparing a glance. The fists stopped flying and he was hauled to his feet, pain resounding in the side of his head already; he tasted blood and guessed that a tooth had been knocked out.

The captain came out again, followed by his friend. He looked at Naden scornfully.
"Find out what he's doing here," he said simply, then delivered a final brutal blow-- and the ranger knew nothing further.


Nell was not very surprised when Gareth started buying things for her- including new clothes, which she did need- but she felt strange accepting them. Even so she didn't protest, not wanting to offend him. When he told her to go get dressed she started, but went into the dressing-room of one of the shops, waiting until no one else was inside, then locking the door. There was a mirror within, and she was quite irritated to find how 'bad' she looked- but the new clothes were a large improvement, and they did nothing to give away her secret- save that her slim figure was easier to descry. Her worry was not that the captain would notice anything strange about that- Dauron was her concern....

She was about to thank him when she saw his eyes drawn elsewhere in mid sentence, a shocked expression on his face. She followed his gaze and saw what he saw- the third man from the galley, the dark-haired one, his limp form being half-carried, half-dragged away from a tavern...

[Edited on 1/11/2005 by dreamdancer]
gwendeth
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 01, 2005 12:51
Gareth swore under his breath to see Naden being dragged away... the Captain of the Corsair-ship leading his burdened crew members to turn down a deserted alley.

Gripping Niel's arm to get the boy's attention, his sea-grey eyes never left Naden's inert form. "Quick!" he whispered, and thrust the sack containing the rest of the youth's new clothing into his hands, "Get back to the Elanor - and fetch Dauron - but Dauron only! No one else from my ship is to set foot on shore - tell him that, too! I'll try to remain in sight... I don't think this alley is their last stop, but bring him back here - fast!!"

Cautiously, as if he was still 'browsing' the Umbarian shops, Gareth 'followed'... fretting the whole time Niel was gone... and as the Ranger's captors slid down one alley after another, until - on the far inland outskirts of the Umbarian port, Gareth growled to see Naden unceremoniously thrust into an abandoned-seeming shack.

When nothing further happened, except a sharp yelp of pain from the Ranger (by which Gareth surmised Naden had been 'wakened'), he slipped back to the Market Square, and agitated until he saw the two approaching.

"Come on!" he said without preamble, and began leading the way back. - And, though he knew Niel 'ought' to be sent back to the Elanor, Gareth didn't think it wise. - If anything, the boy could go back and tell Allon and Bernor to head off with what news they already had.

"There were five - plus the Corsair Captain with Naden," he quickly told his old friend when they arrived, "and I don't think there's anyone else inside besides them." Turning to the boy, he ordered, "Niel - keep a lookout and let us know if anyone comes near. Dauron, we'll need to 'distract' them somehow and then grab Naden. - Think you we do that, old friend? Between the two of us?"
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
BerethEdhellen
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 01, 2005 07:36
Dauron was becoming impatient as the sun fell below the horizon, leaving only the light of early twilight shimmering on the sea. He was about to call Bernor to his side and ask him to take over control of the vessel while he went to search for his friends; suddenly Niel came running up the plank, calling for him. Striding to meet the young boy, Dauron grabbed his slender shoulder, demanding to know where Gareth was. When he caught his breath, Niel told him, gasping out the words, what they had seen. He told Dauron that Gareth had asked him to come at once.

"What are we waiting for? Bernor!!" When Bernor ran to his side, he explained what had occurred and told Bernor, "keep the men armed and alert. We may not have planned to leave as early as we should have. The ship is yours until Allon returns, then you and the men will answer to him. I will send Niel if we need additional help. You are not to mention any of this to the men, only Allon, do you understand?" Bernor nodded and saluted, dashing off to get the men prepared for whatever might happen. Meanwhile, Dauron grabbed Niel by his arm and dragged him quickly behind him as the left the ship.

As they strode through the street, watching carefully all those that they passed, Dauron chatted with Niel as though they were out for a stroll so as to appear that they were simply shopping for a place to eat or drink. "I see you have some new clothes," he finally mentioned as they weaved their way through the many streets that would bring them to where Gareth was waiting. "Very nice. You look like an upstanding young sailor now." He caught sight of Gareth at the other side of the market square.

Dauron stopped for a moment, bringing Niel to a halt with him. Looking down into the boy's eyes, barely visible in the dying light, he asked, "When are you going to tell Gareth what a lovely young lass you are?" Leaving Niel standing in shock, he continued across the square until he reached Gareth's side.

"Come on!", Gareth said without preamble, and began leading the way back. Niel caught up with them, glancing at Dauron, then away quickly. "There were five - plus the Corsair Captain with Naden," he quickly told his old friend when they arrived, "and I don't think there's anyone else inside besides them." Turning to the boy, he ordered, "Niel - keep a lookout and let us know if anyone comes near. Dauron, we'll need to 'distract' them somehow and then grab Naden. - Think you we do that, old friend? Between the two of us?"

Dauron stood, staring at the old shack and the surrounding buildings. Most were ramshackle deserted buildings, some barely standing with roofs missing. He slid quietly across the alley to the remains of the building next to the shack, peeking in it's windows. Applying a little pressure, he felt the instability of the building. Sneaking around to the back of the building he noticed a small back door to the shack in which Naden was being held. Quietly slipping back to Gareth's side, he pointed to the building.

"Send Niel to the back of the shack." Bending low, he whispered to Niel, "there's a small door back there. I doubt it's locked. For what reason would anyone bother? You are to wait until you hear a commotion out here and then you are to slip through that door and help Naden out that way. He may be tied and I note you still have your dagger so use it to cut the bonds. He may also be wounded badly, so you may have to hold his weight. Whatever you do, get him out. " Giving Niel a push, he sent the child on her way. Knowing what he knew about her, he knew he was putting a heavy burden on her but there was no time for any other plan.

"Gareth, we're going to push that building into the side of the shack where Naden is. The shack is not much more stable and will begin to crumble enough to scare the men inside to the outside to see what is happening. You and I will by that time be around the back to gather up Naden and Niel as soon as they are both out the back....then it's run and hide in whatever alley we find first. The one over there to our left looks dark enough. If Naden is too injured to walk, I can carry him over my shoulder. But we must move quickly."

He looked at Gareth. "It's our only way. We two cannot fight six and save Naden too. Do you see any flaw in the idea? If so, speak now, as we have very little time left."
Life is good! Live it to the fullest. Love well those near and dear. "You cannot step into the same river twice, for the waters are ever flowing on ....." Heraclitus I Aear cân ven na mar
dreamdancer
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 02, 2005 04:36
Naden woke with a yelp as a sharp kick brought him back to wakefulness. Groaning, he lay unmoving and tried to recall what had happened, and as his head slowly cleared he heard the voices of his captors, then remembered everything. Silently cursing himself for getting caught at all, he opened his eyes and blinked, finding that he had been brought to a small shack. The five men from the tavern stood around him, looking down with dark expressions. The ranger felt a stab of fear.
The captain spoke a question, but Naden didn't answer- for one, his thoughts were still somewhat muddled and he didn't hear what was said well, but also he had no intentions of saying anything. He could only guess that night was coming on, and he would try to give Gareth time to get the Elanor V out to sea... though the others had not been informed of the change in the corsairs' plans.... But there was no help for it now...

"Why are you in Umbar?" the voice was clearer this time, and when Naden didn't answer he got another kick to his middle, stealing his breath. This treatment continued for some time, with different questions and different forms of 'punishment'- but by the time the men finally stopped for a moment, Naden was despairing. Of a broken rib- or more- he was certain, and every breath inhaled brought a sharp stab of pain. His head was pounding, body aching- - and though he had tried to fend off his attackers, it was of no use. He was sorely outnumbered. For what reason the men had stopped their onslaught he didn’t know; he was hardly paying attention anymore. A rough foot forced him on his back and the boot rested on his chest, as if to hold him in place, though he had no intentions of trying to get up again. If his thoughts had been clearer, he would have seen the four others going to the door to inspect a noise…

--

Dauron stopped for a moment, bringing Niel to a halt with him. Looking down into the boy's eyes, barely visible in the dying light, he asked, "When are you going to tell Gareth what a lovely young lass you are?" Leaving Niel standing in shock, he continued across the square until he reached Gareth's side.

Nell stood frozen for a moment, glaring after Dauron. He knew! He had figured it out! She cringed as she thought of now having to tell Gareth- that was, of course, if they all made it back to the Elanor V alive… She ran after the man, deciding that she’d have to worry about it later- there were more important matters at hand. Even so, when she rejoined the two men she glanced at the red-head then looked away quickly, wondering if she had been that obvious…

"Send Niel to the back of the shack." Bending low, he whispered to Niel, "there's a small door back there. I doubt it's locked. For what reason would anyone bother? You are to wait until you hear a commotion out here and then you are to slip through that door and help Naden out that way. He may be tied and I note you still have your dagger so use it to cut the bonds. He may also be wounded badly, so you may have to hold his weight. Whatever you do, get him out. "

Nell nodded once and slipped around back, finding the door and kneeling next to it, pressing her ear to it. She could hear men talking, but no sign did she hear of the captive. She feared briefly that he had been killed- stories went around the Anchor often about how the captains’ killed suspicious persons, and usually the captains themselves were bragging about their macabre deeds.

She waited until she heard the creaking and groaning of the other shack, and as it leaned into the one occupied by the men, she heard the other door open. Quickly she pushed open her small door, sucking in an alarmed breath when she saw that not all of the men had left, as Dauron had hoped- one was still there, standing with his foot on Naden’s chest, now glaring at Nell.

She did all she could think of—yanking out the dagger Gareth had given her, she rushed forward, lashing out at the ‘guard’. He was not prepared for such an attack and the blade was raked across his forearm as he stumbled back. Before Nell could even kneel to see if Naden was alive, the man came back at her, his own hooked sword in hand. The young woman knew how to fight, and she had done her share of it when her own ship was pirated, but that had been long ago, and as she moved backwards she sought only to avoid being hit- there was no way she could get a strike in.

Naden had been lost in his own wandering thoughts of pain when he was suddenly aware of the scuffle in the room- and looking, he recognized Niel in the room, fighting… at first he thought he was dreaming, but when he heard the boy shout “Gareth!!” in distress, he knew that he was not. Calling upon his last remaining strength he got to his feet and went at the man swinging, since he no longer had his own sword, or his knife. In the state he was in, though, he was hardly a match to the man, but he had drawn his adversary off Neil as planned….
Suddenly, another of the corsairs stormed back in, and the fight was on once more. Neil called for help a second time as Naden was forced painfully against a wall, and with his head swimming he tried to shove off his attacker to no avail.

Nell desperately attempted fend off the ferocious assault but she was knocked aside like a fly, and when she saw the other man throw the ranger against a wall, and pull out his own blade for the kill, she called a third time for the Captain, wondering if she had been freed from her bondage only to die here….


[Edited on 3/11/2005 by dreamdancer]

[Edited on 3/11/2005 by dreamdancer]
gwendeth
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 02, 2005 05:19
"Gareth, we're going to push that building into the side of the shack where Naden is. The shack is not much more stable and will begin to crumble enough to scare the men inside to the outside to see what is happening. You and I will by that time be around the back to gather up Naden and Niel as soon as they are both out the back....then it's run and hide in whatever alley we find first. The one over there to our left looks dark enough. If Naden is too injured to walk, I can carry him over my shoulder. But we must move quickly."

He looked at Gareth. "It's our only way. We two cannot fight six and save Naden too. Do you see any flaw in the idea? If so, speak now, as we have very little time left."

"Not unless they don't 'do' as we expect," Gareth answered, and eyed both buildings carefully. "Let's go!" he growled, only giving Niel a chance to get into 'place' (he hoped!), and, "On three!" and at the count, both he and Dauron set their backs to the ramshackle sheds, and shoved with all their might.

A 'crack' sounded... and a groaning 'snap' as their 'victim' collapsed into Naden's prison.

The only problem was... that the second building was better-made than it had originally seemed - at least, at first. It was 'leaning', yes... but 'holding'... and before the two sailors could think of anything else, five men burst out the front door.

There was no time to think then, as Gareth yanked his sword from it's sheath. His skills weren't as good as a full elf's... better than a man's... but he'd not practiced for a good many decades, and not actually fought since the Elanor IV had been taken... and his rustiness showed.

But, where was the sixth Corsair crewman? he still had time to wonder, and hissed when the Umbarian's blade glanced off his arm... and where was Naden? - And Niel? and, “Gareth!!”

At that, the Captain of the Elanor V shivered at the boy's call for help. Yet, he couldn't leave - not yet... and Dauron was busy with his own battles. At the third cry, however, Gareth knew he could wait no longer. Three Corsairs were down between them... and the fourth injured. "Hold them, Dauron!" he cried, and raced for the now-teetering shack. It had but taken 'time' for the second one to become affected.

Sliding in the small door, he glanced 'round the room quickly. Naden (bloodied and nearly unconscious) was laying on the floor, the remaining captor standing over him with blade raised high... and an exhausted Niel trying to distract the would-be killer.

Another loud 'creak' sounded, and "Get back!" Gareth ordered Niel, and charged forward. A swing that missed, it nonetheless made the Umbarian dodge. The return strike however, landed, as did heavy pieces of wood as the shack began it's final collapse. Taking no further time, Gareth grabbed hold of Naden's arms. "Get his feet, Niel!" and together, they dragged the injured Ranger out of his now-demolished prison.

"Dauron!" the half-elven fisherman called, just as his old friend came around the side. "Help!" Gareth gasped, hoping that between the three of them they could get Naden back to the ship. - After which, they would swiftly get the [/i]Elanor V[/i] under weigh...
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 04, 2005 05:52
When he and Gareth shoved against the old building, it crashed against the shack in which Naden was being held captive. Unfortunately, the shack remained standing, although it jarred the building sufficiently to cause those inside to race outside to see what had happened. Even more unfortunate was that only five of the original six were in the street...one must have remained inside with Naden.

Dauron glanced at Gareth questioningly, both realizing instantly that Niel would creep in the back entrance unaware that one Corsair remained to meet her. He faced the five sailors before him, pulling his sword and readying himself for battle, which quickly ensued. He and Gareth took on the five at once....though Dauron kept an eye on Gareth, knowing it had been years since he had raised his sword against anyone. Two assaulted Dauron at once, and he used his honed skills in sword mastery to disarm one and wound the other so badly his sword use was lost from his slashed arm. Swinging around so that he was back to back with Gareth, he spoke over his shoulder, "Go for their arms and legs, they have no grace of movement and are doing nothing but swinging aimlessly with hope of hitting something, anything." Following his own advice, he sliced quickly at a huge bumbling sailor's leg, bringing him down to his knees at once.

Suddenly, a cry from within the shack......"Gareth!" They continued fighting hearing a second and then a third call. Gareth turned to Dauron, "Hold them, Dauron." He swung his sword at the soldier in Gareth's path. "Go, Gareth, get Niel and Naden out." Gareth slipped away and Dauron continued to battle the ones remaining until they were all too badly wounded to fight back. Leaving them where they lay, he raced around the back of the shack, in time to see Gareth and Niel dragging Naden out through the door.

"Dauron!" the half-elven fisherman called, just as his old friend came around the side. "Help!" Gareth gasped.

Running to their side, he pushed Niel aside and went to Gareth's side. "Get him to his feet." With Gareth's help, the two of them managed to lift Naden to his feet, though the man could not possibly stand by himself. Pulling his hood up over his head so it hung over his face, hiding the bloody cheeks from view, Dauron wrapped one of Naden's arm over his shoulder and nodded to Gareth to do the same with his other arm. "If we can keep him shuffling along between us, the townspeople will assume we are bringing one of our sailors back to port, one who has had a bit too much of the local ale." With Naden hanging between them, they began to head back towards the ship.

"Niel, walk ahead of us and keep an eye out for any eyes that are too curious. Let us know so we can cover our steps or change direction if needed." Glancing at Naden, Dauron realized it would be a blessing if they reached the ship without any further problems. Struggling through the alleys until they reached the square, catching only the snickers of the locals at the two sailors dragging a third between them, and the occasional mocking, "Couldn't hold his liquor, huh?", Dauron was certain they would make it to the ship, but the last few meters were worrisome. One last time, they passed the thugs in black, who watched carefully, looking to see any weakness they could take advantage of but backed off when they saw the swords hanging loosely at the side of both Dauron and Gareth. One of them gave Niel a quick shove but she swirled around, lifting her dagger quickly, and he stepped back immediately.

When they reached the gangplank, both Bernor and Allon raced down to relieve Dauron and Gareth from their burden. Leading Naden to his cabin, Bernor nodded at the two. "All's in readiness for the tide...only three more hours will do it and we can raise anchor. The tide will not be full high but it will be sufficient for us to clear the shoals and will give us another two hours lead on 'em, sir. Their ships need full high to clear while our draft will give us some freedom to move sooner."
Life is good! Live it to the fullest. Love well those near and dear. "You cannot step into the same river twice, for the waters are ever flowing on ....." Heraclitus I Aear cân ven na mar
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 04, 2005 07:16
Naden was hardly aware of being dragged- or carried- out of the shack, but by the time Dauron hauled him to his feet his thoughts were a little clearer, and he mumbled that he was fine and could walk by himself- knowing very well it wasn't true.

Nell was nervous, but succeeded in hiding it as they hastened back to the Elanor V. As they passed a group of thugs, one shoved her and she whipped out the dagger on instinct- she recognized him as a regular at the Anchor, and was in no mood to put up with him- and he backed off, seeing her 'friends'.

Naden was taken to his cabin. Still avoiding thinking about revealing her secret to Gareth- and almost wishing Dauron would tell him so she wouldn't have to- Nell went in after Bernor and Allon. She wasn't skilled in healing, so she didn't do anything but watch as the two men began seeing to him, and she winced at the sight of his injuries. He grunted painfully when they had him sit up, and saw Nell standing by the wall.
"What," he said hoarsely, pressing a hand gingerly against his ribs.
"How badly are you hurt?" she asked.
Naden actually managed a grim, albeit pained, smile.
"My pride hurts worse than anything," he said, his words slightly slurred, "Where's that half-elf? He's got it coming for this..."
"Niel, please go fetch Howel and ask him to bring warm water," Allon put in, seemingly taking the ranger's words for rambling. Nell did as asked, locating the cook and giving him the message, then going back topside. A few men were there, looking warily toward the docks with a few other men, as if expecting a swarm of corsairs to come pouring onto the gangplank, but it seemed that Gareth had gone to his own cabin. She stood for a few minutes brooding, then turned and went back toward the captain's cabin.

Nell was suddenly overcome with terrible anxiety when she reached his door- what would she say? She didn't have the slightest idea- and after all, there were other things for him to worry about- why bother them with this? It was a small thing... but she needed to tell him. Sighing, she knocked on the door, stepping back when it was pulled open.
"Niel?"
"I need to talk to you, Captain..." she started, wringing her hands without meaning to. He let her in and she stood in the middle of the room, continuing to fidget as he sat himself down. He invited her to sit as well, but she declined.
"I...ah... I need to- what I mean to say is- I haven’t been completely honest with you, Captain..."

Nell was daunted under his gaze and she looked down at the floor as she continued.
"I suppose its not really that important, with so much else going on, but I figured you should know... ahm... the ship I was on, the one that was pirated two years ago, was the Linewlyn... and the captain was named Dagah Reedsman... and he- the captain- " she faltered, biting her lip and glancing up at the half-elf- this was the first time she had spoken of this in what seemed ages- before looking down again "- he was my father. My name isn’t Niel- It's Nell Reedsman- and I'm not a teenage cabin-boy... before we were pirated by the corsairs.. long before they caught up with us.. my father ordered me to put on the guise of a boy, because he knew what would happen if the corsairs took a woman captive..."
The memory had returned vividly as she spoke, and she swallowed tears as she glanced up again. "I'm 23- not the child you think me to be- but I've been living this lie for two years, and I have been unsure how to tell you... I hope that you will forgive me, and perhaps still allow me a place on your crew- because I have no family in Dol Amroth looking for my return..."
She fell into silence, still wringing her hands, her knees feeling weak- but it also seemed that a great weight was gone from her shoulders. With wide eyes misted by tears, she nervously awaited Gareth's response...

--

Naden, still in pain and not fully alert, was nonetheless in a better mood. His hurts had been seen to and the blood cleaned away, for which he was very grateful. He was sitting up in the bed, ruing the loss of his tooth and trying not to jar his ribs with unsteady breathing, when Allon came back carrying a mug.
"Please tell me that's something for pain," the ranger commented with eyes half-closed.
"It's ale."
"Ah," he took the tankard gratefully, not smiling but nodding in thanks, "That'll do it."


[Edited on 5/11/2005 by dreamdancer]
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 05, 2005 04:42
When they reached the gangplank, both Bernor and Allon raced down to relieve Dauron and Gareth from their burden. Leading Naden to his cabin, Bernor nodded at the two. "All's in readiness for the tide...only three more hours will do it and we can raise anchor. The tide will not be full high but it will be sufficient for us to clear the shoals and will give us another two hours lead on 'em, sir. Their ships need full high to clear while our draft will give us some freedom to move sooner."

"Good!" Gareth nodded, relieved at that, and to turn Naden over to the two First Officers to be tended, followed by Niel, who quickly disappeared below.

Turning to his old friend, "Thanks Dauron!" he said, and smiling wanly, "Remind me to find some time for us to 'practice' some when we get back. I was more out of shape for swordfighing than I'd thought!"

Through the darkness, Gareth then cast an anxious eye at the dock. "Go get cleaned up, Dauron. - Believe me," and pulling at his bloodied shirt, "I'm going to, too. And then, I want a 'spring' put on the tiller. Quietly, but I do. And, I'll want all hands in place at their posts a half-hour before we leave. No calls to get them there, though - everything by whispers. The Bells for 11:30 will be our signal - will you make sure all the men know?"*

After a few more minutes of discussion on his idea, Gareth headed for his Cabin. After treating his own wounds, and washing up a bit, he'd just finished shrugging into a clean shirt and tucking it into a clean set of trousers when a knock sounded at his door. And, pulling it open,
"Niel?"
"I need to talk to you, Captain..." she started, wringing her hands without meaning to. He let her in and she stood in the middle of the room, continuing to fidget as he sat himself down. He invited her to sit as well, but she declined.
"I...ah... I need to- what I mean to say is- I haven’t been completely honest with you, Captain..."

Nell was daunted under his gaze and she looked down at the floor as she continued.
"I suppose its not really that important, with so much else going on, but I figured you should know... ahm... the ship I was on, the one that was pirated two years ago, was the Linewlyn... and the captain was named Dagah Reedsman... and he- the captain- " she faltered, biting her lip and glancing up at the half-elf- this was the first time she had spoken of this in what seemed ages- before looking down again "- he was my father. My name isn’t Niel- It's Nell Reedsman- and I'm not a teenage cabin-boy... before we were pirated by the corsairs.. long before they caught up with us.. my father ordered me to put on the guise of a boy, because he knew what would happen if the corsairs took a woman captive..."
The memory had returned vividly as she spoke, and she swallowed tears as she glanced up again. "I'm 23- not the child you think me to be- but I've been living this lie for two years, and I have been unsure how to tell you... I hope that you will forgive me, and perhaps still allow me a place on your crew- because I have no family in Dol Amroth looking for my return..."
She fell into silence, still wringing her hands, her knees feeling weak- but it also seemed that a great weight was gone from her shoulders. With wide eyes misted by tears, she nervously awaited Gareth's response...

Stunned, the half-elven fisherman gaped at the nervous person before him. "You... are Nell Reedsman?" he gasped. No wonder he... she... the 'youth' in the 'Black Anchor' had seemed so familiar!! "I... we... all of us... I thought - I - we thought you were dead!" he stammered.

Gareth had known Dagah Reedsman. Not well... but they'd shared a mug of Ale a few times, and swapped a few sea stories. - And, he'd felt bad when the Linewlyn disappeared without a trace - all in Dol Amroth quite certain the Corsairs had killed everyone on board...

And, he remembered seeing that ship leaving port that morning. Dagah at the wheel... with his daughter at his side. He, himself, and Nell had never spoken - but he'd seen her about Dol Amroth on various tasks for her remaining-but-now-dead parent. A good, solid sailor the girl had been, by her father's and others of the Linewlyn's words... and quite pretty, too, he remembered - and saw now. - And as Gareth searched her face... yes, the dark locks that had cascaded below Nell's shoulders were gone... and her green-and-brown-flecked eyes now wide with trepidation...

How much courage she had! Gareth thought, almost immediately jumping up and coming around his desk to face Nell... for his musings had only taken a small moment. For her to live with the fear of detection... little hope of escape or rescue... and that abominable 'treatment' by the Innkeeper at the 'Black Anchor' came back to his mind.

At which, Gareth was siezed with two irrational wishes: to go back and serve Nell's tormenter with the punishment he deserved; and to hug her tightly in reassurance.

Mastering those feelings, however, Gareth reached out, and took Nell's trembling hands in a firm, but gentle grip... half to reassure himself it wasn't a ghost standing before him, as well as her. And, he smiled. "Welcome back, Nell," he said, "To the land of the living. - And, you're welcome to make the Elanor your home - for as long, or short a time as you want."

At that, one or two of the tears gathering in Nell's eyes slid down her cheeks, and before he could stop himself, Gareth (unaccountably reddening slightly) reached up to lightly brush them away - somehow thinking this young woman of incredible inner strength disliked weeping.

"If you'd like," the Elanor's Captain continued, "I'll inform the others for you - they'll be glad to know Umbar didn't claim all of the Linewlyn's crew," thinking he could do so whilst Nell took a few moments of quiet in her Cabin - if she wanted, and wondering if Dauron had figured out who she was. That she was female, probably, knowing the redheaded half-elf as he did... but as to her true name? - And Gareth resolved to speak to his old friend as soon as he got topside...

(( That was a 'ploy' used by C.S. Forester in one of the Horatio Hornblower books - but it seems plausible that any good M.E. sailor could do something similar - especially for a swift, silent departure. - Also, dd, if I need to edit anything - just let me know!!))
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 05, 2005 12:49
Mastering those feelings, however, Gareth reached out, and took Nell's trembling hands in a firm, but gentle grip... half to reassure himself it wasn't a ghost standing before him, as well as her. And, he smiled. "Welcome back, Nell," he said, "To the land of the living. - And, you're welcome to make the Elanor your home - for as long, or short a time as you want."

At that, one or two of the tears gathering in Nell's eyes slid down her cheeks, and before he could stop himself, Gareth (unaccountably reddening slightly) reached up to lightly brush them away - somehow thinking this young woman of incredible inner strength disliked weeping.

Nell was overcome with gratitude at Gareth's words- it seemed to her that he had already sacrificed much for her sake, and now to give her a place on his beautiful ship!-and when he took her hands she was torn between shying away from his unfamiliar but comforting touch and burying her face in his chest and crying out all of her past fears like a child- but she did neither, instead smiling silently and wishing she was more gifted with words, so that she could thank him properly.

She couldn't keep in the few tears that managed to fall, though, and she blushed a little when Gareth’s hand brushed them away, hating that she cried even a little in front of him…

"If you'd like," the Elanor's Captain continued, "I'll inform the others for you - they'll be glad to know Umbar didn't claim all of the Linewlyn's crew,"

“Thank you,” Nell replied, “so much… if there is ever anything I can do for you…”

Nell soon found herself back in the cabin given to her, and she sat in silence for a few minutes, contemplating what it would mean for her secret to be out. It would be awkward for her to start acting like who she really was again- after she had been living as someone else for two whole years- but at least now she was free to try. Meaning she was free of being Neil meant she was free of that disguise- so she removed the uncomfortable bindings and re-dressed, observing herself in the mirror. She was on a ship full of men- but it had been so with her father’s ship, and the young woman figured she’d best get used to being herself around them if she were to work beside them. And there was a chance that the Elanor V would be overtaken by the corsairs, and all their attempts to escape would be in vain, and then the men of Umbar would know her secret- but she wouldn’t hide it any longer. If the worst befell, she wouldn’t let herself be taken captive again, she thought solemnly- she’d die before going back to such a fate. But she’d fight with all the ferocity of a wild-cat to protect the men who had saved her, if it came down to a fight- this she swore to herself.

Leaving the mirror with a sigh, she went to the bed and sat upon it in thought, deciding that she would wait there until called for- that was what she was accustomed to, anyway, and she didn’t want to put herself out. Silently she brooded over what could happen in the next few hours…

--

Naden had bothered Allon until the man had finally told him what was happening- they were to leave in three hours, in hopes to get a head start before the corsairs took chase, which they most certainly would. That news was not without hope, but still too hopeless for the ranger’s liking. He thought darkly that, had Gareth and Dauron not come back for him, they might have had no need to worry about gaining a head start- he had made it very clear that he was not to be rescued, should such a chance befall. When it was discovered that two corsair captains had been wounded- or killed, for Naden hadn’t heard the whole story, and could remember only snatches- it seemed likely that an entire fleet would be after them, and what chance did the little fishing vessel and it’s crew have against an army?

Even so, he was incredibly grateful, albeit a little embarrassed to have needed the help, and would have liked to have gone striding up to the deck to thank Gareth, and wait there to make a last stand if it came to that. Presently, though, the ranger knew he didn’t have the strength to make his way to the deck- probably not even to the door of the captain’s cabin. He only hoped that sufficient strength would return to him in time… as he finished the ale, though, he felt sleep tugging at his mind. He swore softly and reached to set the empty tankard on a near-by table, sucking in a hissing breath as the movement brought pain to his ribs-- Naden was determined to keep himself awake until he could speak to Dauron and Gareth, to complain about- and thank them for- their coming when all hope for himself he had lost.
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 05, 2005 02:13
“Thank you,” Nell replied, “so much… if there is ever anything I can do for you…”

Gareth noted Nell's light blush, but didn't comment on it. - Instead, he smiled again and stepped back. "There's no need for that," he replied, dismissing her thanks. "I'm just glad you're all right," Gareth went on.

"Why don't you go get yourself cleaned up a bit," the Elanor's Captain then suggested, "I'm sure Dauron's back topside, and I need to speak with him..." and saw a flash of uneasiness in her eyes. "Dauron knows?" he inquired, though he'd still suspected the answer when she nodded, and then followed Nell with his eyes as she left.

Admiration for the young woman's fortitude occupied his thoughts for a few moments, along with... and shoving the 'flicker' of what had crossed his mind to the back of it, Gareth went up to see how the plans for their escape were progressing.

And, as he'd suspected, Dauron was in the thick of it - ensuring that things were going smoothly - and yet, as quietly and inconspicuously as possible.

Yet, pulling his old friend aside, Gareth spoke. "Yes," he said, "She talked to me. Clever of you to discern it, Dauron," and he winked for the Flying Gull's Master's 'eye' for females. "Did she tell you her name?"

Running his eyes between the dock, the decaying hulk of his old ship, and a glance at the door below, "She's Nell Reedsman, Dauron - you knew Dagah about as well as I did - he was her father. I'd thought that lad looked famiiar, now I know why. We'll tell the crew, but I thought you'd be interested in knowing first. I suppose I should let Naden know, too, and see how he's doing. We've not much time left - maybe an hour before we need everything in 'place', so I'll not be gone long."

With that, Gareth went below - and pausing at Nell's Cabin, hesitantly knocked on the door. "Dauron's started telling everyone..." he began when she opened it, and flushed, noticing - with now knowing Niel was Nell - how... 'different' she looked... feminine... though she was still dressed in men's clothing...

"Um - we'll need you on deck. Speak to Dauron, will you? Ask him for me to tell you where your station will be," Gareth said in a rush, and then hurried on to speak with the Ranger...
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 07, 2005 12:44
When Bernor and Allon took hold of Naden and led him to his cabin, Niel following in their footsteps, Gareth commented to Dauron, "Remind me to find some time for us to 'practice' some when we get back. I was more out of shape for swordfighing than I'd thought!"

Dauron chuckled, "Anytime, old friend.

Through the darkness, Gareth then cast an anxious eye at the dock. "Go get cleaned up, Dauron. - Believe me," and pulling at his bloodied shirt, "I'm going to, too. And then, I want a 'spring' put on the tiller. Quietly, but I do. And, I'll want all hands in place at their posts a half-hour before we leave. No calls to get them there, though - everything by whispers. The Bells for 11:30 will be our signal - will you make sure all the men know?"*

"Yes, with the mid-night high tide at two, we can leave at midnight and still clear the shoals far ahead of the Corsairs. I'll let the men know to listen for the bells. Now let us both get cleaned up while we have time before we sail." Dauron patted Gareth on the shoulder and they both headed below deck to their individual cabins. Dauron stripped to his waist, dropping a cloth into the bowl on its stand and pouring water from the handy pitcher into the bowl. Using the cloth, he bathed from his head down. Digging out a clean white shirt and a warm tunic, as the nightfall had turned the air quite chilly, he dressed, wrapping his sword around his waist once again and throwing a cloak over his shoulders. He also slipped a small dagger into his waist belt and a small knife into his boot. No sense in being unprepared for whatever was to come in the night ahead. When he was fully prepared, he left for the top deck, passing Gareth's cabin en route. Hearing voices within, he leaned his ear against the door long enough to discern who was visiting the Captain. Hearing Nell's voice saying, "I'm 23- not the child you think me to be- but I've been living this lie for two years, and I have been unsure how to tell you... ", he smiled and nodded his head. "Good girl," he whispered to himself and continued on his way.

He made his rounds, speaking quietly with all the men, giving the necessary orders for the night ahead. Gareth joined him at the bow of the ship as he watched the tide beginning to turn and kept his eye on the activities aboard the three Corsairs docked closest to the ElanorV. He eyed Gareth questioningly.

"Yes," he said, "She talked to me. Clever of you to discern it, Dauron," and he winked for the Flying Gull's Master's 'eye' for females. "Did she tell you her name?"

"No, but a female's name was hardly necessary. Everything else screamed female to me!" he laughed. "But I'm assuming she told you." His eyebrow lifted and he waited.

Running his eyes between the dock, the decaying hulk of his old ship, and a glance at the door below, "She's Nell Reedsman, Dauron - you knew Dagah about as well as I did - he was her father. I'd thought that lad looked famiiar, now I know why. We'll tell the crew, but I thought you'd be interested in knowing first. I suppose I should let Naden know, too, and see how he's doing. We've not much time left - maybe an hour before we need everything in 'place', so I'll not be gone long."

Dauron's eyes opened wide as he absorbed this information, he thought about it for a moment then said, "Well, I'll be....! I'll get the news to the crew. And we've got at least two hours to go yet, so we'll have time to get everything in place, fear not." He watched Gareth head back below deck and went to find Bernor or Allon. Finding his own first mate, he told him the news of the great discovery regarding the lone survivor of the Reedsman vessel. It had a heart lifting affect on Bernor, who asked permission to spread the news among the men. It would give them an even bigger reason for wishing to outrun the villains that would soon be on their trail. Dauron agreed and Bernor ran off to talk to the men.

With everything going smoothly, Dauron's concern now was with Naden. He knew the man had been badly wounded and would not be able to do much, but he wanted to reassure him that 'much' would not be needed. The men of this ship all wanted to get home and would do whatever was required of them. He began to drop down through the hatch and ran into Nell, on her way up.

"Well, fair Nell. I must say you have more than your share of courage, young lady. I will be proud to be a part of whatever it takes to see you home again in Dol Amroth." He bent down and placed a small kiss on the top of her cropped head. Ignoring her blush, he answered her question as to what she should be doing.

"What I want you to do is to stick like a burr to Bernor's side. If there is any fighting, and I sincerely doubt there will be," he assured her, noting the flash of concern that crossed her face, "I want you with a good man at your side. But you mustn't worry. This little ship will fly like an eagle compared to those bloated monsters the Corsairs are so proud of." He rested his hand on her shoulder. "Now, off with you. I must check on Naden." He watched the slender, graceful young woman, garbed in a sailor's ubiquitous uniform, race across the deck, then turned and continued to Naden's cabin.

Knocking, he entered, to find Naden propped on pillows, groggy and half asleep with Gareth at his side. Noting the empty mug at Naden's side, he smiled. Someone...Bernor or Allon...had given him a good strong ale, it seemed.

"How are you feeling, Naden? You look like a fallen tree but the men tell me you'll live." He winked at Gareth. "Naden, we will be drawing anchor in about two hours. I'd appreciate it if you'd stay down here until we're out to sea. We're going to be flying low and may scrape bottom slightly on the shoals so it may be a bit bumpy for your shaky legs. I don't think any of us will have time to catch you when you fall and I'd sure hate to lose you overboard." He was grinning as he teased the Ranger. "And don't worry, my friend. We'll have three hours lead on the Corsairs before they can even begin to run the shoals and this boat is built for speed, while their's are not. We'll make it to safe harbor long before they know we're gone."
Life is good! Live it to the fullest. Love well those near and dear. "You cannot step into the same river twice, for the waters are ever flowing on ....." Heraclitus I Aear cân ven na mar
dreamdancer
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 07, 2005 02:30
"Dauron's started telling everyone..." he began when she opened it, and flushed, noticing - with now knowing Niel was Nell - how... 'different' she looked... feminine... though she was still dressed in men's clothing...

"Um - we'll need you on deck. Speak to Dauron, will you? Ask him for me to tell you where your station will be," Gareth said in a rush, and then hurried on to speak with the Ranger...

Nell stood for a moment after he had gone, smiling a little to herself, then did as told. She met Dauron on the way topside and stopped.

Well, fair Nell. I must say you have more than your share of courage, young lady. I will be proud to be a part of whatever it takes to see you home again in Dol Amroth." He bent down and placed a small kiss on the top of her cropped head. Ignoring her blush, he answered her question as to what she should be doing.

"What I want you to do is to stick like a burr to Bernor's side. If there is any fighting, and I sincerely doubt there will be," he assured her, noting the flash of concern that crossed her face, "I want you with a good man at your side. But you mustn't worry. This little ship will fly like an eagle compared to those bloated monsters the Corsairs are so proud of." He rested his hand on her shoulder. "Now, off with you. I must check on Naden."

She raced over to Bernor without another word, feeling much too noticable and slightly embarrassed. She didn’t personally feel that she needed a 'strong man' beside her- but even worse than Dauron’s assumption that she needed protection (or so she saw it) or the kiss to her head- which had made her blush madly- was that now the members of the crew were paying her more attention. She could descry expressions of wonder, or happiness, curiosity-- or pity- the last of which she hated. Her only orders were to stick with Bernor- why hadn’t he given her something to do, to take her mind off her secret being let out, and the dreadful waiting until they could set off?

Sighing, she stood at Bernor’s side with her arms crossed in front of her, now feeling exposed, and waited silently, feeling her father’s sword at her hip seem to grow heavier….

--

Finally Gareth came, and before he could even inquire as to how the ranger felt, Naden started.
“There you are, you blasted fisherman-- I told you not to come back for me, and that was long before we even reached Umbar! You can give out orders well enough, but you really don’t follow them well, do you?” A smile was on his face as he spoke, “Thank you. Now my debt to you is grown steeper than ever.”

At that moment Dauron came bustling in after knocking.

"How are you feeling, Naden? You look like a fallen tree but the men tell me you'll live." He winked at Gareth. "Naden, we will be drawing anchor in about two hours. I'd appreciate it if you'd stay down here until we're out to sea. We're going to be flying low and may scrape bottom slightly on the shoals so it may be a bit bumpy for your shaky legs. I don't think any of us will have time to catch you when you fall and I'd sure hate to lose you overboard." He was grinning as he teased the Ranger. "And don't worry, my friend. We'll have three hours lead on the Corsairs before they can even begin to run the shoals and this boat is built for speed, while their's are not. We'll make it to safe harbor long before they know we're gone."

“If it’s your command, sir, then I have no choice but to comply. I must admit that I was so looking forward to joining you on deck, though, and re-living my last bumpy sailing experience. I’ll just stay here and guard the port-hole against possible attack while you two sturdy fellows see to the running of the ship. I’ll take the matter of the fish up with you later, and also the lack of attention to orders that you share with Captain Gareth.”
He was teasing also, knowing very well that his weakness was obvious and there was probably no way he’d make it to the deck without aid. Even as he spoke he was aware of some thought brewing in the two captains’ minds, and he wondered if it were some new trouble.
“What’s on your mind?” he asked Gareth first, and winced a little at a pain in his ribs.


[Edited on 8/11/2005 by dreamdancer]
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 07, 2005 03:10
“If it’s your command, sir, then I have no choice but to comply. I must admit that I was so looking forward to joining you on deck, though, and re-living my last bumpy sailing experience. I’ll just stay here and guard the port-hole against possible attack while you two sturdy fellows see to the running of the ship. I’ll take the matter of the fish up with you later, and also the lack of attention to orders that you share with Captain Gareth.”

With a crooked grin, Gareth listened to Naden berating him and Dauron, but shrugged it off. It made no difference that he, himself had given the same order when he'd left for the Marketplace that morning. But,
“What’s on your mind?” he asked Gareth first, and winced a little at a pain in his ribs.

At that, Gareth smiled. "It's nothing to worry about," he replied soothingly, "Just that Niel - well, isn't 'Niel' at all. He's a she. Her name is Nell Reedsman - both Dauron and I knew her father slightly. She's been hiding as a boy for protection these two years... everyone else on the ship was killed. Nell's lucky to be alive at all," the half-elven fisherman finished, and there was an... 'odd' note to his voice.

But, clearing his throat, he went on, "You just guard that port-hole - we'll take care of the rest," and nodding at his old friend, Gareth pulled Dauron out the door with him. Turning his mind back to getting them all 'out' of there, "All right," he said, "Let's get to it. I'd like you on the anchor with Allon and two others. We'll throw out the pawls on the capstan so it won't make a sound - or shouldn't. - It'll be a bit more difficult, but with you four holding it..." and his voice trailed off as they came back topside.

"Pray, Dauron," Gareth added, and then went across the moonlit deck to check each and every station for himself. - It wasn't that he didn't know or trust his old friend to have everything settled already... Dauron was as fine a Captain as any he'd seen over these last thousand years. No, it was mostly to calm nerves: both his, and his crew's.

When he came to where Bernor was posted, Gareth couldn't help but catch his breath at seeing Nell standing beside him... the moonlight... and inwardly shaking his head to get his thoughts in order, he couldn't help but smile enouragingly.

"It won't be long now!" Gareth said quietly, and including Bernor in his next words, "Let's hope you won't need to use that sword, Nell - but if you wield it as well as you did that dagger earlier today, you'll be an asset if we have to fight."

With that, he strode quickly for the Wheel of his beloved ship, and cast an anxious glance at the dock.

The next few minutes were of a tense silence so thick that Gareth wondered if the brutish gang on shore could hear his heart pounding. But, as the Bells rang out the 11:30 mark, there was no time for further pondering.

The soft padding of feet was heard, as Dauron had his group raising the anchor, and as the others scrambled aloft.

A quiet 'clank' sounded when the anchor was secured, and then two soft 'thunks' as axes cut the land-lines. - And, in an instant, the small fishisng-vessel was 'alive' as all sails were unfurled and caught the wind when the spring on the tiller was released.

Giving the Wheel a 'practiced' spin, Gareth set the Elanor V headed out to sea before those on the dock could even blink...
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 07, 2005 05:52
Naden was shocked by Gareth's news concerning Nell, but he didn't have time to say so- before he could even respond, both captains were gone, and the ranger left to himself. He sighed and brooded over it for while, thinking that it had been rather obvious... now that they knew, of course, they could see that. He quickly regretted his annoyance at Gareth for rescuing the girl.... sighing, Naden glared darkly at the empty mug, wishing he had more ale, then finally scooted down in the bed and fell asleep, despite the movement and painful bumpiness as the ship took off...

--
Nell had been standing beside Bernor in silence, and had finally dropped her arms to her sides and stood waiting, eyes turned toward the eerily silent docks. When she heard footsteps approaching she turned and made out Gareth and Dauron as they came. For a moment she was aware of him looking directly at her, and she looked back though she felt strange doing so, determined not to shy away and avoid meeting his gaze. She wasn't in the Anchor anymore- she could earn respect here, and not have to worry about acting submissive.

"It won't be long now!" Gareth said quietly, and including Bernor in his next words, "Let's hope you won't need to use that sword, Nell - but if you wield it as well as you did that dagger earlier today, you'll be an asset if we have to fight."
With that, he strode quickly for the Wheel of his beloved ship, and cast an anxious glance at the dock

She said nothing in response, but lightly fingered the sword hilt- she wasn't worried about that. The sword she was sure she could use, for she had often practiced in the privacy of her small room at the Anchor- although, always against an invisible foe. And even those she felt anxious about the prospect of fighting, she wasn't 'afraid'...

The soft padding of feet was heard, as Dauron had his group raising the anchor, and as the others scrambled aloft.

A quiet 'clank' sounded when the anchor was secured, and then two soft 'thunks' as axes cut the land-lines. - And, in an instant, the small fishisng-vessel was 'alive' as all sails were unfurled and caught the wind when the spring on the tiller was released.

As the ship set out, Nell found herself smiling in anticipation and excitement- she had always loved sailing, everything about it- in her mind it was the very epitome of freedom, and now that she was actually free, even the prospect of evil following couldn't supress the joy she felt when her ears picked up the familiar fluttering of the sails, and the sound of water rushing against their vessel. For a moment the young woman glanced at Gareth, thinking back to her days on the Linewlyn and her place next to her father... how badly she wanted to be standing there next to the Elanor V's captain, to recall that memory... and just to be near him?

She sighed and looked away, scolding herself inwardly for such a thought, glad of the darkness to hide her redness (which was becoming all too common suddenly)... serious matters were at hand! Setting her expression back to normal she crossed her arms again, and waited until a job would present itself to her....
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 07, 2005 07:17
The bells rang and quietly the final preparations began for their escape. All the sailors quietly and nonchalantly wandered around the deck...at least to anyone viewing them from a distance. But in fact, they were all taking their positions. At midnight, Dauron and his team pulled the anchor, quietly, quietly until it clunked almost unheard even to them. Dauron glanced in the direction of the Corsair ships and saw that noone there had responded to the soft noise. He strolled over to Bernor and spoke softly to him about what was to come next.

His eyes glanced curiously at Nell, amazed and astounded at how she had succeeded in hiding her femininity from the Umbarians. She was so obviously a beautiful young woman...or obvious to him at least and had been almost from the moment he first saw her in the tavern. And now that she had combed her hair, cleaned her face, and dressed, albeit in sailors garb, it was even more evident. He remembered her from the days when her father sailed from the same ports as he did. He had shared an ale with Dagah now and then and even remembered when Nell was but a small child, as that was when he had Captained his first ship. Dagah had bought him dinner and an ale the night before he was due to set sail. She had been a pretty little thing even then.

But his greater curiosity was reserved for his old friend, Gareth. He had caught the odd expressions on his face, the hesitancy and softness in his voice whenever he was around Nell. Dauron watched him stride to the wheel after telling Nell, "Let's hope you won't need to use that sword, Nell - but if you wield it as well as you did that dagger earlier today, you'll be an asset if we have to fight." His back was straight and he purposefully stared anywhere but at Nell. Dauron chuckled to himself.

Dauron remained at Bernor's side until the sails were unfurled and the small ship began to slide forward into the waves. He watched the joy on Nell's face as the wind washed across her face and through her hair....and also when she shyly glanced now and then at Gareth. Dauron smiled with amusement. "Hmmm, it seems it goes both ways," he told himself, chuckling. Turning to Bernor, he told him to hold his position and keep an eye out that the rest of the crew needed for nothing. Then, placing his hand through Nell's arm, closing his fingers lightly around her elbow, he leaned down and told her to come with him.

Startled, she walked beside him, only appearing to hesitate when she realized where they were headed. Dauron led her along with him until they were both standing next to Gareth, who turned to smile at Dauron until his eyes caught sight of the fact that Nell was at his side.

"Seems like we got off well," Dauron said to Gareth. "I saw the Corsairs racing around helplessly, knowing there was nothing the could do for another two hours, not if they didn't want to be grounded on the shoal, that is. Though I'd love to see one of them try as that would hold all of them up for hours until they could clear the inlet, as it 's only wide enough for one at a time." He looked out of the corner of his eye without moving his head and noted that Gareth and Nell were staring at each other. Keeping the grin from his face, he pointed in the direction of the inlet and the shoal, "and darn, if it doesn't look like they're going to try just that manuever. Fools. If you keep close to the shore as we head north, Gareth, we'll pick up the south winds and make even better time. And it will be even harder for the Corsairs to follow as it's too shallow for them. Well, I'm going to go check on Naden. Mind if I leave Nell here with you?" Without waiting for an answer, Dauron turned and strode off across the deck in the direction of the cabins.

Heading down to the cabins below, he was chuckling madly to himself. "Well I'll be a dragon's uncle. Who would have believed it? Gareth! Smitten by a mere girl, though he does have good taste. She's a right pretty one....and brave and tough, too. You've done alright, old friend." He had reached Naden's cabin by the time he made this decision and tapped lightly on the door, opening it quietly and peeking in. Noting that Naden had fallen asleep even with the rolling of the waves, he closed the door and turned and headed for his own cabin, planning to take a nap for himself.
Life is good! Live it to the fullest. Love well those near and dear. "You cannot step into the same river twice, for the waters are ever flowing on ....." Heraclitus I Aear cân ven na mar
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 08, 2005 04:21
Gareth was more relieved than pleased that they'd surprised the Corsairs with the swiftness of their weighing anchor. After the first 'flap' of the sails as they filled, all on the Elanor V was in silence, but his half-elven hearing could hear the yells and cries as orders from the shore and Umbarian ships echoed across the water. They weren't out of danger yet - not nearly so, and Gareth knew it well. If they could just make it past the inlet...

He saw Dauron coming towards him from the corner of his eye, and glancing towards him, began to smile. Until, that was, he saw his old friend's hand around Nell's arm, Dauron half-dragging the young woman with him.

A surge of... well... 'jealousy' was what his mind secretly knew it to be, swept through the half-elven fishing-Captain... and 'envy' for Dauron's easy ways of speaking to women. - Not, of course, that he, himself 'couldn't' - but he'd never felt so confused around any female before... and the idea of Nell and Dauron together was - was... and Gareth couldn't help but stare at her. Thoughts and feelings flitted through his mind so quickly, he almost didn't hear what his old friend was saying.
"Seems like we got off well," Dauron said to Gareth. "I saw the Corsairs racing around helplessly, knowing there was nothing the could do for another two hours, not if they didn't want to be grounded on the shoal, that is. Though I'd love to see one of them try as that would hold all of them up for hours until they could clear the inlet, as it 's only wide enough for one at a time." He looked out of the corner of his eye without moving his head and noted that Gareth and Nell were staring at each other. Keeping the grin from his face, he pointed in the direction of the inlet and the shoal, "and darn, if it doesn't look like they're going to try just that manuever. Fools. If you keep close to the shore as we head north, Gareth, we'll pick up the south winds and make even better time. And it will be even harder for the Corsairs to follow as it's too shallow for them. Well, I'm going to go check on Naden. Mind if I leave Nell here with you?" Without waiting for an answer, Dauron turned and strode off across the deck in the direction of the cabins.

Nervously, Gareth tore his gaze away from Nell, and with an effort, set his mind to considering Dauron's words.

Though he was right, the half-elf was aware the Umbarians would expect them to head straight North. They had to keep fooling their enemies - of that, Gareth was certain.

Yet, with a dry mouth, he glanced at Nell again, noticing that she, too, was looking after the disappearing Dauron, and that she seemed 'uneasy' for some reason.

Again, that 'irrational' feeling of - of... and... but swallowing it, Gareth half-croaked when he spoke. "Um... ahem..." and clearing his throat, tried again.

"Do me a favor, would you, Nell?" and gulped when she once more turned those green-and-brown-flecked orbs on him. "Um," the half-elf went on, "Find Allon would you - and have him put two men in the chains. We've got a shallower draft than the Corsairs, but I'm not taking any chances on running aground when I don't know exactly how deep that Inlet is..."

As if she was relieved to leave his presence (if only for a bit), Gareth watched Nell scamper off, and then - as he heard voices crying out the depths, she was back.

And, with Nell beside him, Gareth... well... and without looking at her again, "If we get past the Inlet safely," he said diffidently, "We're going to head North for only a short time - just until we're out of sight, and then we'll go straight out to sea for a day or two before turning for Dol Amroth. - I'm hoping to 'fool' them by not doing what the Umbarian's 'expect'. - When we do... would you - would you like to - to - t-take a t-turn at the Wheel?" he stammered, and Gareth knew his cheeks were burning as he stared into the darkness.

But, from the South side of the Inlet, he then saw a strange 'glow' in the darkness, and Gareth's heart chilled. Turning to look behind them, he saw another was brightly going... and he knew: Corsair ships out at sea were being 'warned' that something was 'wrong'!

"Ai, Eru!" he whispered in Elvish, and exchanged a worried glance with Nell...
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 08, 2005 08:07
Dauron entered his cabin and threw his cloak across the bottom of the bed and crossed to the porthole to watch as the ship slid through the inlet over the shoal. This low in the ship, he could hear the keel slightly scraping the shoal but not sufficiently to slow them down. Tilting his head, he could see the breakwater rocks of the jetties that formed the inlet beginning to slip by and he took a deep breath, exhaling with a whoosh. They were going to make it. Or were they? His eyes caught a flash of light off shore. Tilting his head to the other side of the porthole, he looked back towards the dock, far behind them, and saw a matching light.

"Oh, dung heap. The Corsairs are smarter than we thought." He grabbed his cloak, throwing it around his broad shoulders, and ran for the door. Running along the passageway, he almost flew up the stairs to the deck. His long legs brought him to Gareth's side quickly and, stopping, his eyes searched the seas beyond the inlet. Though quietly, his spoken words were firm.

"Gareth, swing her to starboard when you reach the end of the peninsula. Swing her to starboard! Follow the coast towards the River Nurnen." He glanced at Gareth, realizing that he was telling the Captain how to run his ship. His voice softened. "I've played with these boys before, far more often than you have, since you run an honest ship." He grinned, saying, "And you know me...not quite as conservative as you are, my friend. Their boats have deep bottoms and they can't run close to the coastline. The can run alongside but too far offshore to bother us. And with the south winds, we can run up the Anduin and come in behind Tol Falas." Clapping his hand on Gareth's shoulder, he chuckled. "But it's your ship, my friend."

He finally noticed Nell, standing beyond Gareth. Realizing this must be like re-living what she and her father had faced, he felt a moment of compassion for her. He stepped around Gareth to her side, putting his arm around her shoulder and giving her a quick squeeze (not noticing Gareth's reaction to this move). "Fear not, little Nell. Gareth is one of the best mariners on the water. He'll see us through this. 'tis but a minor problem." Without realizing that his arm was still around her shoulders, he stared out to sea, watching the lights flashing, knowing those still at the dock and those waiting beyond the inlet were busy signalling each other in the hope of catching their small ship.
Life is good! Live it to the fullest. Love well those near and dear. "You cannot step into the same river twice, for the waters are ever flowing on ....." Heraclitus I Aear cân ven na mar
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 08, 2005 10:10
Turning to Bernor, he told him to hold his position and keep an eye out that the rest of the crew needed for nothing. Then, placing his hand through Nell's arm, closing his fingers lightly around her elbow, he leaned down and told her to come with him.

Startled, she walked beside him, only appearing to hesitate when she realized where they were headed. Dauron led her along with him until they were both standing next to Gareth, who turned to smile at Dauron until his eyes caught sight of the fact that Nell was at his side.

At first Nell didn't know what to think- she had wanted to stand by Gareth, of course, because it would have been like the old days on her father's ship- at least, that's the reason she let herself believe. She hadn't even thought of actually doing it, though, and here she was being hauled over by Dauron! When they stopped, the captain turned with a smile, but it seemed to vanish as soon as he saw her. She wondered what that meant- but didn't think on it long as the red-headed half-elf started talking.

"Seems like we got off well," Dauron said to Gareth. "I saw the Corsairs racing around helplessly, knowing there was nothing the could do for another two hours, not if they didn't want to be grounded on the shoal, that is. Though I'd love to see one of them try as that would hold all of them up for hours until they could clear the inlet, as it 's only wide enough for one at a time." He looked out of the corner of his eye without moving his head and noted that Gareth and Nell were staring at each other. Keeping the grin from his face, he pointed in the direction of the inlet and the shoal, "and darn, if it doesn't look like they're going to try just that manuever. Fools. If you keep close to the shore as we head north, Gareth, we'll pick up the south winds and make even better time. And it will be even harder for the Corsairs to follow as it's too shallow for them. Well, I'm going to go check on Naden. Mind if I leave Nell here with you?" Without waiting for an answer, Dauron turned and strode off across the deck in the direction of the cabins.

The whole time he spoke she found herself observing Gareth, nearly unable to pull her eyes away. When she finally did she was blushing madly, wondering at herself and the thoughts flitting through her mind- it wasn't like her to feel this way at all! She tried to give it some other cause- that she had been so long deprived of any sort of companionship, and Gareth had obviously cared about her to have treated her so well -she was simply unused to kindness, and she was only feeling gratitude- and of course, she was overwhealmed and unsure of how to act, and it would do no good for her to go letting her emotions get to her now when they were in danger, and when the things she was feeling were obviously unlike her, and probably useless anyway.... all these thoughts and more passed through her mind as she stood at his side, and she was uneasy, but found herself delighting in his presence, however awkward it seemed.

"Um... ahem..." and clearing his throat, tried again.

"Do me a favor, would you, Nell?" and gulped when she once more turned those green-and-brown-flecked orbs on him. "Um," the half-elf went on, "Find Allon would you - and have him put two men in the chains. We've got a shallower draft than the Corsairs, but I'm not taking any chances on running aground when I don't know exactly how deep that Inlet is..."

"Yessir," she said, and hurried to do the task with a feeling of slight relief. Once it was done, though, she might have found somewhere else to stay, or gone back to Bernor... but she went back to stand in the same place, this time taking a deep breath of the sea-air and concentrating on the movement of the ship, and how wonderful it felt to be where she was...

"If we get past the Inlet safely," he said diffidently, "We're going to head North for only a short time - just until we're out of sight, and then we'll go straight out to sea for a day or two before turning for Dol Amroth. - I'm hoping to 'fool' them by not doing what the Umbarian's 'expect'. - When we do... would you - would you like to - to - t-take a t-turn at the Wheel?" he stammered, and Gareth knew his cheeks were burning as he stared into the darkness.

"Oh, yes!" she exclaimed, before she could stop herself, and she put one hand to her mouth, her face matching his in reddness though neither of them knew it. "I mean-- yes, yes I would."

He didn't reply though; and she followed his gaze, seeing the light glaring in the darkness. Her heart fell- they were in more danger than they had anticipated- and she moved a step closer to Gareth without thinking about it, her mind going back to the terrible day the Linewlyn had been taken.
"Ai, Eru!" she heard him whisper, and they exchanged a worried glance.

Suddenly Dauron came rushing up, and began talking at once though his words were soft. Nell didn't look at him, but she heard his words as he- basically- told Gareth what to do. She could almost sense the Elanor's captain tensing, but he made no reply to his friend. Then suddenly Dauron noticed her, and came around, putting his arm around her shoulder and giving her a quick squeeze- which was somewhat alarming, seeing as how she hadn't been that close to anyone for a very, very long time. She didn't pull away though, but caught the glance that Gareth gave, seeing his expression- one of disappointment and hurt that was unmistakable. What for? Because Dauron had thrown an arm around her? No, most probably because of the corsairs, she told herself...

"Fear not, little Nell. Gareth is one of the best mariners on the water. He'll see us through this. 'tis but a minor problem." Without realizing that his arm was still around her shoulders, he stared out to sea, watching the lights flashing, knowing those still at the dock and those waiting beyond the inlet were busy signalling each other in the hope of catching their small ship.

"I'm not afraid," she said at last, and slipped out of his grasp, hoping that the move wouldn't offend him-- but it made her uncomfortable, "I just know what to expect from these men."

She glanced over at Gareth again, and smiled, hoping to chase away whatever dark thoughts had been behind that earlier expression of his.
"I have total faith in Captain Gareth and the Elanor V," she said, speaking to Dauron but looking at the other half-elf, "I just don't much trust the wind, or my own luck."

The smile on her face suddenly twisted into a nervous grin and she blushed yet again, because she suddenly thought that she would have much rather had Gareth's arm around her- both of them, in fact-- and she quickly decided that she was losing her mind.
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 08, 2005 10:52
"Oh, yes!" she exclaimed, before she could stop herself, and she put one hand to her mouth, her face matching his in reddness though neither of them knew it. "I mean-- yes, yes I would."

Nell's quite obvious delight made Gareth's heart 'thump', and was unaccountably overjoyed to know he'd made the young woman happy. - Yet, there was no time to say or do anything else as he debated how they would deal with the newest threat to his ship - to his crew... and to Nell... and vowed inwardly that - if it came to it, he would fight to the death to keep her from being taken again - whether disguised, or not...

"Gareth, swing her to starboard when you reach the end of the peninsula. Swing her to starboard! Follow the coast towards the River Nurnen." He glanced at Gareth, realizing that he was telling the Captain how to run his ship. His voice softened. "I've played with these boys before, far more often than you have, since you run an honest ship." He grinned, saying, "And you know me...not quite as conservative as you are, my friend. Their boats have deep bottoms and they can't run close to the coastline. The can run alongside but too far offshore to bother us. And with the south winds, we can run up the Anduin and come in behind Tol Falas." Clapping his hand on Gareth's shoulder, he chuckled. "But it's your ship, my friend."

Indeed it is!!! was hovering on Gareth's lips, when his friend's actions overrode any irritation about 'who' was Captain of the Elanor V.
He stepped around Gareth to her side, putting his arm around her shoulder and giving her a quick squeeze (not noticing Gareth's reaction to this move). "Fear not, little Nell. Gareth is one of the best mariners on the water. He'll see us through this. 'tis but a minor problem." Without realizing that his arm was still around her shoulders, he stared out to sea, watching the lights flashing, knowing those still at the dock and those waiting beyond the inlet were busy signalling each other in the hope of catching their small ship.

Unaware it was showing in his face and eyes as he stared intently at Dauron, Gareth *did* know that waves of hurt and disappointment had crept into his heart.

It was just like his old friend to charm the most beautiful woman who'd sailed on these seas... why else would Dauron be just standing there with his arm around Nell's shoulders?
"I'm not afraid," she said at last, and slipped out of his grasp, hoping that the move wouldn't offend him-- but it made her uncomfortable, "I just know what to expect from these men."

She glanced over at Gareth again, and smiled, hoping to chase away whatever dark thoughts had been behind that earlier expression of his.
"I have total faith in Captain Gareth and the Elanor V," she said, speaking to Dauron but looking at the other half-elf, "I just don't much trust the wind, or my own luck."

This time, between the moon shining down on them, and the lantern-light, Gareth didn't miss Nell's blush when she first smiled, and then grinned at him... and ignoring that Dauron was still nearby, the half-elven fisherman smiled too... a shy smile that lit up his sea-grey eyes.

"Perhaps," and the Captain of the Elanor V's voice was soft, "Your luck has changed, Nell," and almost without realizing it, Gareth stretched out his hand for hers, and gently drew the young woman back to his side.

And, with the Inlet drawing ever closer, Gareth then turned his attention back to his ship.

"Dauron!" he snapped, (though his cheeks were flaming) "We're going to make the fastest turn Northward that these Umbarians have ever seen!" and happily grinned down at Nell before speaking again to his old friend.

"Get the men ready!" Gareth ordered, "I'll want the anchor dropped just a few feet for only a minute or so - so it 'drags' the bottom. - That'll get us heeled over before they know what we're up to - but not right away. I want them to think the Elanor's headed out to sea before we turn. Go - get things ready, Dauron - I want you back on that anchor, and I'll give the signal when we're ready!"
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 08, 2005 02:30
Dauron felt Nell wriggle free of his arm, and glanced down at her, suddenly reminded he had still been holding her close to his side. He watched as she glanced over at Gareth again, and smiled, hoping to chase away whatever dark thoughts had been behind that earlier expression of his.

"I have total faith in Captain Gareth and the Elanor V," she said, speaking to Dauron but looking at the other half-elf, "I just don't much trust the wind, or my own luck." He noted the blush on her cheeks, but more importantly, the shy smile that lit up Gareth's eyes...and the gentleness of his voice as he reached for Nell's hand. "Perhaps," and the Captain of the Elanor V's voice was soft, "Your luck has changed, Nell,"

It was all Dauron could do to keep his lips from curling into a smile, but he managed to keep his face expressionless as he stared out at the ocean swiftly opening before them. But his mind was racing. He could see the outlines of the offshore Corsair ships now as the approached the narrow breakwater and wondered if Gareth would take so much umbrage at his suggestions of how to outrun the Corsairs that the captain would ignore them. He knew how stubborn his old friend could be but this was no time to let his feelings overcome his good sense. And it wasn't so much that Dauron had told him what he thought should be done, it had more to do with ... was it possible? ... jealousy. Did Gareth really think Dauron had any interest in Nell? He'd have to have a talk with Gareth.

It would be a long time coming for him to wish to be close to any woman again for a long time. Because as he looked out at the Corsair ship, all he could think of was how the one woman he had loved had betrayed him...and his friends. That collection of war ships did not appear from no where. They had been warned in advance of the arrival of the ElanorV, of this he was certain. The Corsair captain who had boarded them before they entered the Umbar port was not surprised that they had arrived....he had been expecting them and was merely trying to determine whether they were any threat to the Umbarians. When he had determined that they had no serious weapons beyond those usually carried by individual sailors, he had probably made his decision then and there that he would pirate this northern ship when they left Umbar. He wondered who had been sending messages to him from shore as they had prepared to leave. His eyes turned back toward shore, wondering whether Calwyn had somehow arrived before they had. No, not possible but the pain lingered when he thought of her.

He was ripped from his thoughts by Gareth. "Dauron!" he snapped, (though his cheeks were flaming) "We're going to make the fastest turn Northward that these Umbarians have ever seen!" and happily grinned down at Nell before speaking again to his old friend.

"Get the men ready!" Gareth ordered, "I'll want the anchor dropped just a few feet for only a minute or so - so it 'drags' the bottom. - That'll get us heeled over before they know what we're up to - but not right away. I want them to think the Elanor's headed out to sea before we turn. Go - get things ready, Dauron - I want you back on that anchor, and I'll give the signal when we're ready!"

Dauron turned to face Gareth and suddenly grinned from ear to ear.

"Aye aye, Captain Silverlake. Your wish is my command."

Laughing, his good humor restored, he headed back toward the anchor, calling the men he needed to his side.
Life is good! Live it to the fullest. Love well those near and dear. "You cannot step into the same river twice, for the waters are ever flowing on ....." Heraclitus I Aear cân ven na mar
dreamdancer
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 09, 2005 12:22
The half-elven fisherman smiled too... a shy smile that lit up his sea-grey eyes.

"Perhaps," and the Captain of the Elanor V's voice was soft, "Your luck has changed, Nell," and almost without realizing it, Gareth stretched out his hand for hers, and gently drew the young woman back to his side.


Nell said nothing in response, at first too surprised, then feeling a strange mixture of giddiness and anxiety- but quickly he let go and turned his full attention back to the ordering of his ship- like any good sea-captain would. Her admiration for him as a sailor was indeed high already....

"Dauron!" he snapped, (though his cheeks were flaming) "We're going to make the fastest turn Northward that these Umbarians have ever seen!" and happily grinned down at Nell before speaking again to his old friend.

"Get the men ready!" Gareth ordered, "I'll want the anchor dropped just a few feet for only a minute or so - so it 'drags' the bottom. - That'll get us heeled over before they know what we're up to - but not right away. I want them to think the Elanor's headed out to sea before we turn. Go - get things ready, Dauron - I want you back on that anchor, and I'll give the signal when we're ready!"


The young woman felt another surge of excitement- not fear- in anticipation of what was coming. Trying to out-run the corsairs, being on the open sea again, feeling the long-missed movements of a ship riding over rushing waves… she knew their danger, of course- the corsairs were large and slower than the smaller and lighter Elanor V, - but when the wind failed them, the cruel captains had use of slaves and oars. But despite the threat, Nell was aware of something else long missed in her life- and that was hope. She had had none for a long while, and these fishermen had brought it to her. There was no way she was going to let their danger- however real and extreme it was- ruin that newfound hope.

"Aye aye, Captain Silverlake. Your wish is my command."

As Dauron hurried off to do as asked, Nell found herself feeling flustered again- but not in the exact same way. Mostly she was thinking of the corsairs moving ever closer, and what she should do, where she should stand if worst came to worst. She glanced around, decided where she could give the most help in the handling of the ship, thinking over all that she knew of sailing— somewhere in the back of her mind, though, was the tiny thought that, no matter what she told herself about it, she was becoming very ‘fond’ of Captain Gareth. There also was the scolding side of her, reminding her that he was much older than she, more experienced and wiser than she could ever hope to be, and that she could offer him nothing. This side blamed his tender way of drawing her to his side on his view of her as no more than a child who needs protecting.

Her face showed nothing of these thoughts, though, but she looked steadily at Gareth, waiting for his signal.
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 09, 2005 12:52
He may have been snapping orders, but Captain Silverlake was all-too-aware of the young woman standing by his side. A place, Gareth decided, where he very much liked Nell to be.

Yet, no sign of anything but concern over their situation showed on his face.

Gareth's sea-grey eyes flicked from one side of the Inlet... to the other... to the sails over head... carefully gauging the bulky shadows of the Corsairs with the Elanor V's speed.

As they slipped through the narrow entrance to the Bay, he turned to Nell, and lightly touched her shoulder. "Get those men out of the chains - would you?" he asked, since they were no longer needed in that task.

Nearly instantly, the 'hovering' Corsairs swung 'round to follow, and try to cut the small fishing vessel off, but the land-breeze was strong enough to keep the Elanor ahead.

Gareth knew Dauron was itching for them to turn, but he wasn't ready to... yet.

Nell was back, and nervously, Gareth tapped his fingers on the Wheel... glancing back at their pursuers... "Take in a reef!" he ordered, knowing it was a surprise to all... since that would slow them down some. - But, winking at Nell reassuringly, the half-elven fisherman knew what he was doing... and what his ship could do.

And, perhaps ten minutes later, as the Corsairs drew closer, Gareth 'sprung' his next surprise.

"Dauron!! Drop the anchor!!" he yelled, and a bare breath later, "Hard a-Starboard!" and began spinning the Wheel as quickly as he could.

And, although his half-elven strength made it (truly) 'unnecessary', the extra help wouldn't hurt. So, "Nell!" he cried, and as if the young woman understood, she immediately began helping.

Between the Anchor 'biting' into the soft sand beneath them, and the quickness of the swing Northwards, the Elanor V heeled sharply. Anything that wasn't secured slid, and tumbled towards the Starboard side of her... and the rushing water actually spilled onto the deck.

More than one of the crew lost their footing because of the steep angle on the deck... including Nell... who stumbled against Gareth. But, catching her quickly, Gareth's heart raced as she clutched his shirt whilst he steadied her.

"Raise Anchor!" Gareth's cheeks were burning, but he couldn't have been happier as he called out the command.

"Let's get her straightened out!" he told her, and the two began spinning the whee the other way, bringing the Elanor V back onto an even keel. The sails caught the South Wind, and rapidly, the small ship was in the coastal shoals heading North... and well out of reach of the Corsairs... who - as Gareth had planned, had been caught completely by surprise and were only now beginning to make their turns...

"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 09, 2005 07:48
The ship heeled around at a dangerous tilt. Those that had not grabbed something began slipping, one almost sliding overboard before another sailor managed to grab his collar. Dauron, Bernor and the two sailors at their side kept an eye on Gareth, who, along with Nell, was spinning the wheel as hard as they could.

"Raise Anchor!" they heard Gareth cry out. The four of them pulled the anchor quickly from the sandy bottom, feeling it catch on an obstacle briefly, then pulling free, much to their relief. The sails caught the South Wind, and rapidly, the small ship was in the coastal shoals heading North... and well out of reach of the Corsairs. Dauron and Bernor watched the Corsairs closely, noting they were adjusting to the sudden move made by Gareth but failing to make it in time. The Elanor V was racing north, flying over waves just above the shoals beneath them.

Dauron stood, watching over the stern and smiling, pounding on Bernor's back. "We did it!" he called out to Gareth, his voice full of excitement and glee. Waving at Gareth, he turned and headed to below deck. He had suddenly thought of Naden, who had been sleeping peacefully the last time Dauron had peeked in on him. The tilt of the ship had been very severe and Dauron wondered how Naden had fared.

Dashing through the hatch and down the stairs, he raced to Naden's cabin, knocking on the door. "Naden! Are you alright?" The only answer he heard was a moan. Quickly turning the handle, he began to open the door, only to have it bump against something blocking it. Another moan issued from the crack in the door. Pushing gently until there was just enough room for him to slip through, and stepping over Naden's body, lying across the floor, he got down on his knee next to the Ranger.

"Um...we took a rather hard turn, Naden. I see you were not prepared." The glare in Naden's eyes made it difficult to keep from bursting out laughing but Dauron pressed his lips together and choked on his burbling laughter, covering it with a coughing spell. "I must be...cough cough...coming down...cough...with something." He turned his head away to hide the grin on his face, pretending to look around the room. When he had his mischievous humor under control, he looked down at Naden, realizing that the Ranger might actually be hurt....and felt a rush of compassion.

"Here, let's get you up off the floor and back on your bunk, my friend." He put a hand under each arm and lifted Naden to his feet, holding him upright while he led him back to the bunk, easing him down and pulling the pillow up behind Naden's head. "How would you like a cup of tea? Or an ale? Or better still, some elven wine that Gareth keeps hidden away from all but himself? He doesn't know I know where he keeps it." Dauron began to chuckle.
Life is good! Live it to the fullest. Love well those near and dear. "You cannot step into the same river twice, for the waters are ever flowing on ....." Heraclitus I Aear cân ven na mar
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 10, 2005 03:09
"Dauron!! Drop the anchor!!" he yelled, and a bare breath later, "Hard a-Starboard!" and began spinning the Wheel as quickly as he could.

And, although his half-elven strength made it (truly) 'unnecessary', the extra help wouldn't hurt. So, "Nell!" he cried, and as if the young woman understood, she immediately began helping.

Between the Anchor 'biting' into the soft sand beneath them, and the quickness of the swing Northwards, the Elanor V heeled sharply. Anything that wasn't secured slid, and tumbled towards the Starboard side of her... and the rushing water actually spilled onto the deck

Nell focused on helping Gareth with the wheel although he obviously didn't need her aid- and she was grinning as the ship heeled sharply. It had been too long since she'd been on the deck of a ship, though- she lost her footing and stumbled into Gareth with a small "oomph!", grabbing his shirt out of reflex to keep from falling. He caught her, though, steadying her with one strong arm while he held the wheel with the other-- her heart skipped a beat. For a moment or two she stood like that (blushing, as always), not even wanting to break away, but the business at hand came back to mind at once-

"Raise Anchor!" Gareth's cheeks were burning, but he couldn't have been happier as he called out the command.

"Let's get her straightened out!" he told her, and the two began spinning the whee the other way, bringing the Elanor V back onto an even keel.

As they were speeded on by the wind, Nell looked back at the corsairs- though she couldn't see more than the points of light giving away their positions- and let out a sigh of relief. She looked first down at herself- when water had come rushing over the ship's side, both she and the captain had been sprayed. The shirt she was wearing wasn't soaked, but clinging uncomfortably. Smiling sheepishly at Gareth, she turned away, reddening slightly and attempted to ring it out, and when she was satisfied, looked back at the half-elf. She admired him for a moment, giving in to her "girlish" thoughts and deciding that he was handsome, and strong- 'steady on his feet', as her father would have said- she wondered how he would handle the wheel during a storm, and she guessed that he could take the Elanor V through the most violent tempest with little effort. Her admiration for him- admiration for more than his skills as a sailor- grew, and this time she let it. Nell turned to Gareth and met his gaze, a smile touching her lips.
"Good steering, Captain."

---

Naden had been sleeping deeply- the effect of both the strong ale and his own weariness- when suddenly he was wakened, tumbling off the bed when the ship heeled and landing painfully on the floor-- then sliding over and slamming into the closed door. The blow to his ribs had been too much, and as the ship leveled out he just lay silent, thinking of every curse word he'd ever heard and even making up a few, but unable to speak, concentrating only on his halting breaths.

There was a knock at the door.
"Naden! Are you alright?"

He moaned in answer. Suddenly the door was pushed open, ramming into his hip. The ranger groaned again without opening his eyes, wishing that someone had warned him that the ship was going to be rolling over sideways, as he put it to himself...


Pushing gently until there was just enough room for him to slip through, and stepping over Naden's body, lying across the floor, he got down on his knee next to the Ranger.

"Um...we took a rather hard turn, Naden. I see you were not prepared." The glare in Naden's eyes made it difficult to keep from bursting out laughing but Dauron pressed his lips together and choked on his burbling laughter, covering it with a coughing spell. "I must be...cough cough...coming down...cough...with something."

Naden could tell easily enough that Dauron was fighting not to laugh- which didn't make the ranger feel any better, since he was already angry and reeling.
"Sure--you are," he managed to gasp, though he didn't sound quite as annoyed as he felt.

"Here, let's get you up off the floor and back on your bunk, my friend." He put a hand under each arm and lifted Naden to his feet, holding him upright while he led him back to the bunk, easing him down and pulling the pillow up behind Naden's head. "How would you like a cup of tea? Or an ale? Or better still, some elven wine that Gareth keeps hidden away from all but himself? He doesn't know I know where he keeps it." Dauron began to chuckle.

Naden absolutely hated needing such assistance but he didn't complain, just glad that the red-haired half-elf was gentle, even if he did have a strange sense of humor. Finally he got the ranger back in the bed, even putting the pillow behind his head. Sighing, the man raised his hands and pressed them against his forehead, shutting his eyes tightly for a moment.
"No ale or wine, Dauron," he answered, a little haltingly as his ribs were hurting again, "It's enough to wake up with a headache from the ale, but to end up as a door-stop- ! I don't want anything else that strong, leastways not anytime soon."

With this he opened his eyes and met Dauron's gaze. His own expression was one of slight pain- though it was easing- and he could see compassion in the face of the other, but also that laughter still hovering somewhere within.
"Go ahead and get your laugh out before you burst," Naden said, smiling a little, "I'll get back at you for it later."

[Edited on 10/11/2005 by dreamdancer]
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 10, 2005 05:35
"We did it!" he called out to Gareth, his voice full of excitement and glee. Waving at Gareth, he turned and headed to below deck.

Glancing aft, Gareth grinned, and waved back at his old friend. Indeed, they'd 'done' it!

Ignoring the wetness (which he was all too familiar with), Gareth's cheeks again reddened when Nell turned away to wring out her shirt... which had been clinging to her form like... and nervously, the half-elf cleared his throat, staring into the darkness until the young woman turned back.
Nell turned to Gareth and met his gaze, a smile touching her lips.
"Good steering, Captain."

Memories of times when other women had smiled at him over the Captain's thousand-year life flitted through his mind... and occasions when some had (quite clearly) tried to 'capture' his interest... though without success. So... Why was it? Gareth wondered to himself, that Nell's smile made him 'tingle', and feel light-headed... and... downright 'giddy' with joy?

Answering her smile, Gareth lifted one hand from the Wheel, and almost, he touched Nell's cheek. He stopped himself, though, letting his hand drop again... but the Elanor V's commander could not stop the words that sprang from his lips.

"Do you have any idea," Gareth asked softly, "how beautiful you are, Nell?"

Yet, as he turned a very deep red, he glanced 'round his small vessel, and knew he'd things to attend to. Though he was still blushing, "Take the Wheel - will you, Nell? - Keep her steady - I'll be back in a bit," and as the young woman took over, Gareth tried to clear his mind as he went to inspect his ship for any damage from their swift turn.

Finding Allon, "Loose that reef!" he bid his First Officer, and then asked Bernor to get someone back into the chains.

Relieved to find all was well topside, and dismissing those of his crew no longer needed to get some rest for the morrow, Gareth couldn't help but cast a glance back at the Wheel... and Nell standing there... and blushed again as he went below.

And, making his way down the corridor, he heard Dauron laughing uproariously.

"What's going on?" Gareth demanded, hoping his color had settled back to normal as he entered the Ranger's cabin. Upon hearing what had occurred, though, the half-elven fisherman winced. "Truly, I'm sorry, Naden," he said contritely, "I didn't think about warning you... and really, I didn't have the time. - But, we're on our way, and safe from the Corsairs..."

After a few more minutes of chat with the two, Gareth headed to check his own quarters, picking up one or two items that had slid to the floor - though nothing had broken.

And, then, the half-elf went back to the Wheel... and Nell.

"Here," he said diffidently, with a shy smile at her, blushed again when he settled a spare blanket fetched from his own Cabin around her shoulders. "This should help keep you warm..." Gareth told Nell, and then stood by her side - content to just be in her company until such time as fatigue would send the young woman below to rest...


[Edited on 10/11/2005 by gwendeth]
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 10, 2005 09:52
Dauron was tired, so very tired. He had been up since early the previous morning, had been involved in a battle to save Naden’s life, had been unloading and then loading the vessel, had been yanking the heavy anchor, not once but twice, and his body was feeling the constant assaults on his strength. He knew Gareth must be equally exhausted, though his happiness was probably carrying him beyond his own strength at the moment. Yes, happiness, Dauron mused. He had seen his old friend’s eyes shining as he looked upon the fair face of young Nell, shining in a way he had never seen before.

“Strangely”, he thought, “I see her and recognize that she is indeed a pretty lass, yet have not interest in her as a woman. Why is that, I wonder.” Pondering this odd feeling, or lack of same, he realized that he was missing something, someone. Calwyn. Why had she done it? Why had she betrayed the first true love he had ever felt for a woman? It would be a long time before he ever trusted another female, he realized….a very long time.

He had settled Naden, and knew that Gareth was above board, steering his beloved vessel with his equally beloved woman at his side. There was little now for Dauron to do so he searched for and found Bernor.

“Bernor, tell the Captain I will be in my cabin should he need me.”

Slowly he walked to his cabin, entering and searching the room for anything that might have been tossed to the floor when they had made the sudden turn. Everything seemed to be in place but for one small item, which he replaced on its shelf. He lay down upon the covers of the bunk, fully clothed, knowing he might be called upon at any moment, and stared at the beamed ceiling above his head. His eyes could see the fair face of Calwyn as though it had been engraved in the wood. His heart ached. He closed his eyes to blot out the vision and before he knew it, he had drifted into sleep.

A beam of light tore at his eyes, and he slowly opened them, only to realize that the rising sun was shining through his porthole. Lying quietly for a moment, he listened to the rush of water under the keel, the keening wind in the sails. Gareth!!! Dauron jumped from the bunk, racing for the deck. Had the captain been there all night? He’d relieve him and send him below if so. And what of the Corsairs? Were they still on their tail? What had he been thinking to ignore his friend and sleep as though they were on a jaunt rather than in danger. Oh, Dauron, you fool!

He reached the top of the steps, his hand shielding his eyes, and gazed out on the sunlit deck, searching in the direction of the wheel to see who was guiding the ship.
Life is good! Live it to the fullest. Love well those near and dear. "You cannot step into the same river twice, for the waters are ever flowing on ....." Heraclitus I Aear cân ven na mar
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 10, 2005 12:53
An hour passed when Gareth noticed Nell's head droop, and then 'jerk' upwards.

Instantly, Gareth's hand was over hers on the Wheel, steadying it. With a tender smile on his lips, he lightly touched her shoulder. "Go on below," the half-elven fisherman told her softly, "and get some rest, Nell."

Gently, he pried her fingers from around the Wheel, and with his cheeks coloring slightly, he gently kissed her hand. "Go on!" he continued, "I've got it!" and took over control of his ship.

Gareth's eyes followed Nell's slim figure as she left, until the young woman had disappeared from sight. With a sigh, he turned his attention to keeping the Elanor on course...

~@~@~@~@~

By the time Dawn came, Gareth was as tired as he could ever remember being... but no sign of it was seen, except in his sea-grey eyes. He felt... well... as if he'd been hauling nets for three days straight without a break, if truth be told.

Yet... the half-elven sea-captain was exhilarated too... and more often than he'd admit, Gareth's gaze had wandered to where he'd last seen Nell heading below.

With the coming of day, he could see the Corsairs were still 'there'... though at a distance, both behind, and sea-ward of the Elanor V. The small vessel was perfectly safe, though... and Gareth knew that by high sun, they'd be far enough North that the Umbarians would be breaking off their pursuit.

Still, he mused, when they came to it, they'd 'round TolFalas... just to be cautious... and by some time the day following - perhaps mid-afternoon, they'd be home.

And then, as Gareth again glanced... wondering if Nell be awake yet, he saw Dauron coming up topside.
He reached the top of the steps, his hand shielding his eyes, and gazed out on the sunlit deck, searching in the direction of the wheel to see who was guiding the ship.

"Ah! Good morning, Dauron!" Gareth called, and gave his old friend a weary wave. "Sleep well?" he inquired.

With a chuckle when Dauron firmly took over the Wheel and shoved him towards the doorway, Gareth thanked him, and took himself off for a few hours of sleep.

Though, upon reaching his quarters, and although he stretched out with a groan of relief, the half-elf found slumber was far away... his mind turning once more to that courageous, strong-willed, beautiful slip of a young woman resting in another cabin farther down the corridor.

Covering his face with his hands, Gareth shook his head - suddenly depressed. Why should being in love make him feel so? he wondered - now quite sure that he was in love with Nell.

"You're a fool, Gareth Silverlake!" he chided himself, aching over the smiles and blushes she'd given him. "What could she want with you? She's only grateful you rescued her from Umbar!"

And, with that unhappy conviction on his mind, Gareth - at last, fell into an uneasy sleep...
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 10, 2005 06:47
Do you have any idea," Gareth asked softly, "how beautiful you are, Nell?"

Yet, as he turned a very deep red, he glanced 'round his small vessel, and knew he'd things to attend to. Though he was still blushing, "Take the Wheel - will you, Nell? - Keep her steady - I'll be back in a bit,"


Nell did as asked wordlessly, taking the wheel as he hurried off- but a smile was spread from ear to ear on her face, which was also red. It took her greatest will not to giggle—beautiful! He’d called her beautiful! She’d never given much thought to herself that way- for one, it had not been a concern while she pretended to be a boy, but also no one, save her father, had ever told her such. As she held the Elanor V steady she wondered what his compliment meant- the way he had said it, the look on his face. And she wondered about the feelings stirring in her own heart, things that she’d never felt before in the span of her 23 years- confusing thoughts and emotions that thrilled her and made her want to sing, but also made her want to shut herself up in her cabin and hide.
She’d never come close to being in love before- - all she knew was that none of the men she’d known in Dol Amroth compared to Captain Gareth, in any way. Sighing, she glanced about, feeling the touch of the wheel against her hands and the familiar movement of the ship as a long-hoped for dream come true… the smile remained in place, keeping her on the verge of laughing.

Here," he said diffidently, with a shy smile at her, blushed again when he settled a spare blanket fetched from his own Cabin around her shoulders. "This should help keep you warm..."


The young woman beamed at him, still thinking of his compliment.
“Thank you,” she said softly, more pleased than was reasonable for his thought to bring her a blanket, then turned her attention back on the wheel. Gareth remained at her side and they stood in silence, but it was no longer awkward for her. She was glad of his presence- and sailing had always managed to put her at ease.

Slowly, she began to feel sleep creeping up on her. She didn’t speak, though, determined to hold the wheel- but finally her eyes seemed to close against her will, and she jerked her head back up, trying to shake off her weariness.


Instantly, Gareth's hand was over hers on the Wheel, steadying it. With a tender smile on his lips, he lightly touched her shoulder. "Go on below," the half-elven fisherman told her softly, "and get some rest, Nell."

Gently, he pried her fingers from around the Wheel, and with his cheeks coloring slightly, he gently kissed her hand. "Go on!" he continued, "I've got it!" and took over control of his ship.


If Nell’s heart had sped up when he took her hands, it leaped when he kissed one of them. She smiled and nodded, turning and heading for her cabin, secretly pleased when she felt his eyes following her. Coming to the cabin she kicked off her boots but kept on everything, having no night-gown, and climbed in the bed, using Gareth’s blanket to cover herself. The insatiable grin had returned, and it stayed in place as she swiftly gave in to her sleepiness.

--

Naden had enjoyed talking to Gareth and Dauron, even though he had been aching- he was finding more and more that he enjoyed having traveling companions and- dare he think it- friends to talk with. Before this venture, much of his time had been spent alone, except for the occasional ranger, and he counted a few as close friends- but he rarely saw them, and their travel was always secret and silent.

Soon after the others left he was swiftly asleep once more, even without the aid of Gareth’s “secret” wine…



The next morning Nell woke much later than she had intended, and was at once annoyed with herself- surprisingly, though, her mood was strangely ‘happy’. Her dreams had been pleasant and her rest deep. Quickly she threw aside the blanket and got up, taking a moment to pull on another shirt and pair of pants, then the boots, before going topside to see what was afoot, if they were clear of the corsairs, and if she needed to be doing something.

Slightly disappointed when she didn’t see Gareth- and guessing he was sleeping, when she spotted Dauron at the wheel- the young woman headed over and came to a stop beside the red-haired half-elf. She grinned up at him as she ran one hand through her cropped hair, guessing by his expression that it was somewhat unruly.
“Good morning,” she said cheerfully, stifling a yawn, “You look well rested… do you have a job for me to be doing?” with this she glanced around the deck, then up at the sails, then at the corsairs far behind them.
BerethEdhellen
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 10, 2005 09:38
When Dauron noticed that Gareth was indeed still at the wheel, he immediately joined the half-elf at his side.

"I realize that elves don't really sleep like men do but even they need rest. And you're only half an elf so you probably sleep sometimes and dream like elves the rest of the time. But in either case, you're beyond the time of either....you need to give up this wheel, my friend." He gave Gareth a slight push and took over the wheel from him. He was still there when some time later, Nell appeared in the hatchway. She hesitated, a look of disappointment on her fair face. Dauron grinned with understanding then went back to watching the ocean before him. He had set another two men on the pulpit to watch for sudden appearances of shoals. The tide was low now and the shoals closer to the surface. The last thing he wanted to do was run aground; they'd be sitting ducks for the Corsairs, who were still a great distance behind and further out to sea than they were.

Nell's voice interrupted his concentration. “Good morning,” she said cheerfully, stifling a yawn, “You look well rested… do you have a job for me to be doing?” with this she glanced around the deck, then up at the sails, then at the corsairs far behind them.

"And good morning to you, too, fair maiden. Have you rested well?" He looked at her closely as her face was turned up to his and the sun shone upon it. Her eyes were quite beautiful and her cheekbones gave her face a delicate look, even though he knew she was as tough as nails when she had to be. Her short hair framed her face and made her look much younger than she was. But it was definitely an intriguing face, lovely in an unusual way. His eyes ran down the length of her, noting the new clothes fit differently now and he suddenly realized that she must have been binding her curves...for she certainly had them now, although her body was small framed and slender. His smile was full of mirth and he decided to give the young lass some fun.

"I do have a job for you, one I imagine you will like. I know whenever I can, I still do it. See up there in the bow of the ship...the pulpit. I need eyes to watch the shoals for me and at least one of those men could use a break. Why not give him one." He grinned at her, "and let me know if the flying fish are flying this morning. I know there's at least one dolphin riding with us at our side. There must be more. Go! Shoo!" He smacked her bottom and sent her on her way like a child.
Life is good! Live it to the fullest. Love well those near and dear. "You cannot step into the same river twice, for the waters are ever flowing on ....." Heraclitus I Aear cân ven na mar
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 11, 2005 05:19
It was just after high-sun when Gareth finally dragged himself from his bunk. He'd not rested well - not at all, and stifling a groan, glared at himself in the mirror. Pale, and heart-heavy, it was all too clear in both his face and his sea-grey eyes. He'd decided, in his tossings and turnings, it would be best to 'draw back' from her... to put 'distance' (such as could be achieved on a vessel this size) between them... and, almost, Gareth went through with his plan.

Hoping it would help some, he splashed water on his face, and cleaned up as well as he could. And, then quickly changing into clean clothes, the Elanor V's Captain headed topside.

He could hear Nell's voice calling the depths, and wondered how long she'd been doing that task. Dauron was still at the Wheel... and it said much that the half-elven fisherman first searched for their pursuers - and found they'd disappeared. Whether the small ship had merely 'outrun' them - or it had been broken off, though, made no difference. The Elanor V was not changing course!

Smiling wanly at his old friend, Gareth merely shrugged when Dauron berated him for not staying below longer, and changed the subject. "Have you eaten yet?" Gareth inquired, "You've been on the Wheel long enough old friend," and with slightly reddened cheeks, then went forward to get relief for Nell, and to ask her the same question... out of 'politeness', he tried to tell himself, and assumed a demeanor of 'formality' to speak with her.

But, all came to naught when his gaze met Nell's... and the half-elf's heart overrode his mind. His eyes lit up, and a soft smile touched his lips as he called Allon to get someone to replace the young woman. "Ready for a break?" Gareth asked her, and, as he was struck again by her beauty and bravery, "I... was-was wondering... if you'd - if you would... um... like to... to join me for s-something t-to eat," he stammered, and nodded towards the Galley below.

"I thought I'd check on Naden after that," he went on, "If - if you want... you c-could come with me..."
"Tolo si, a tiro i cherth Eru" "Come now, and see the works of God"
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 11, 2005 06:44
"I do have a job for you, one I imagine you will like. I know whenever I can, I still do it. See up there in the bow of the ship...the pulpit. I need eyes to watch the shoals for me and at least one of those men could use a break. Why not give him one." He grinned at her, "and let me know if the flying fish are flying this morning. I know there's at least one dolphin riding with us at our side. There must be more. Go! Shoo!" He smacked her bottom and sent her on her way like a child.


When Dauron smacked Nell she jumped a little, startled, then gave him an expression that was half-bewilderment and half-glaring. She saw laughter in his eyes, though- he was a cheerful, playful soul, she guessed- and smirking she went on to do as asked, more than happy to have a task to keep her busy. It was probably her favorite place to be on a ship- other than at the wheel- so she didn’t mind at all, and eagerly gave one of the men a break. She wanted to prove herself as a worthy crew member, for one thing- so she’d do whatever was asked.


After some time had passed, Nell calling the depths and not yet weary of the task, she became aware of Gareth having come topside. As he approached she turned and met his gaze, wondering if her face expressed how happy she was to see him (which was strange in itself to her- she had only just seen him the night before). She could clearly see his eyes light up though, and she grinned broadly in return to his smile as he called for Allon to get her some relief.

"Ready for a break?" Gareth asked her, and, as he was struck again by her beauty and bravery, "I... was-was wondering... if you'd - if you would... um... like to... to join me for s-something t-to eat," he stammered, and nodded towards the Galley below.

"I thought I'd check on Naden after that," he went on, "If - if you want... you c-could come with me..."


“Of course,” she said, her lips twitching at his stammering (which she suddenly thought was adorable), “Something hot would be welcome—I’m hungry enough to eat five breakfasts!—and I’ve been wondering about your friend.”

They started off toward the Galley side by side, and Nell chatted about what had happened all that morning, when they had finally ‘lost’ the corsairs- and finally they came to the galley. Without thinking twice the young woman sat down next to the Captain, wishing she were brave enough to reach over and give his hand a squeeze, or to simply tell him that she thought he was wonderful- but instead she sniffed the air and commented on how good breakfast was smelling.

After they had eaten, they went to speak to Naden- and to take him some breakfast- and Nell was feeling shy again, since this was the only person on board who hadn’t seen her as herself. When they entered though, he greeted them each by name and with a smile.
“I’m feeling better this morning-“ the ranger put in, accepting the breakfast gladly, “I hate being cooped up down here, Gareth- you have a lovely ship and comfortable cabins, but I’m sorely unused to being in a place this small for long bouts of time. Any chance that I could get some help up to the deck?” he ate while he spoke, proving that his appetite had returned in full- and he winced from time to time because of the ribs, but didn’t slow down eating. “I think I could walk mostly by myself- if I just have someone to lean on. I hate asking, you know- after I’ve already been nothing but trouble since Umbar—and I’m still sore from your mighty steering last night- but if I only see the sky through this little porthole for much longer, I’ll go mad.”
He was grinning as he spoke as well, and Nell was very sorry that he had suffered so- though he’d seemed grim and quiet all the time they were in Umbar. Now he seemed much improved in mood, though he was hurt.
“Maybe it wouldn’t hurt for you to go topside and find a comfortable place to sit,” she put in, “I can go fetch Dauron to help- and I can take the wheel again.” She gave Gareth’s shoulder a squeeze. He had been thinking the same thing, apparently- and as soon as Nell had gone to inform the red-headed half-elf, Naden set aside the empty plate and raised an eyebrow at Gareth.
“Now, I’ve never been one to ‘understand’ women, Gareth,” he started, and grinned, “but I can pick up on a thing or two—have I missed so much away here in my hiding-hole?.”
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Post RE: Eyes of Thorongil (Semi-scripted - please see OOC) [KEEP]
on: November 11, 2005 08:43
Dauron stayed at the wheel, having been completely forgotten once the two had caught each other's eyes. Shaking his head, he wondered if this was the kind of behaviour he had demonstrated during his brief foray with Calwyn. If so, he had a moment of pity for his friends. He looked ahead at the blue-green through which they were passing, and his mind drifted back to his childhood and summers with his cousin Berethion. Many was the hot summer day diving from the small ketch they used to fish and sail into waters just like this. He suddenly had a longing to be home once again. Glancing over his shoulder, he could no longer see the Corsairs on the horizon. He decided this would be as good a time as ever to get himself some breakfast.

"Bernor! Come here, man. Take the wheel and make sure you send someone below deck if you catch even one glimpse of our boys gaining on us." He turned the wheel over to his Mate and waved at Allon, who was attending to his own duties, as he strode to the hatch. When he finally reached the galley, Gareth and Nell were already gone from the room. A few words with Gareth's chef advised him that they had taken Naden a tray of breakfast items. Dauron nodded his head and sat down to wait for his own breakfast. He stretched out his long legs, loosening the muscles, and his arms reached for the ceiling as his back muscles cracked. His food was set before him and he tucked into a plate of scrambled eggs and pork rind. He wondered how Naden was doing this morning. He figured he'd stop into see him when he finished his meal.

No sooner had he had this thought than a head poked into the galley door. The cropped hair and shining eyes told him immediately who it was and he greeted her. "Nell, how is Naden this morn?" He continued picking at his food as she told him about their meeting with the Ranger, and how he wanted to go up on deck.

"And because I'm the only one nearly as tall as he, I have been the one chosen to hike him up, eh? Alright, I'm done here. Let's go and fetch him." Dauron rose to his full height which towered over the small boned form of Nell and he brushed past her easily on the way down the corridor towards Naden's cabin. When he reached it, he stuck his head in the door, only to see Gareth sitting in front of Naden, blushing furiously while Naden grinned from ear to ear.

Avoiding Gareth's eyes, he looked over Naden from head to foot. "I understand you are tiring of your elegant quarters and wish to go aboveboard. Well, let's see if we can get you on your feet first." Putting his arm under Naden's and wrapping around his waist, he supported Naden as the ranger found his footing. Slowly they began to move down the corridor until the reached the steps, which were closer to the shape of a ladder than a staircase. "Naden, this is going to be the toughest part but once we get above board, it should be smooth sailing....words I know you appreciate," he laughed. Amidst moans and groans, Dauron pulled the injured ranger to the top and out onto the deck. They stood still for a moment to give Naden a chance to catch his breath, and during this break, Dauron called out to one of the sailors.

"Arrange seating for this gentlemen, sailor." When the man had set up some boxes and covered them with two blankets for cushioning, Dauron guided Naden and let him down gently into a sitting position. Squatting beside him, Dauron pointed out where the last Corsair ship had been seen and also showed Naden the pod of dolphins that had decided to run with the Elanor V. "See the babies on the other side of their mothers? The mothers always keep between the babies and any threat. And though the pod does not consider us a threat, they still follow traditional behavior." Dauron spent the next hour, sitting in the sunshine next to the land born ranger, pointing out and teaching Naden the things of the sea that both he and Gareth considered home. Given Naden's first experience with the ocean, it was a joy for Dauron to show the ranger the beauties of the water, and to see the fascination and interest in the eyes of Naden in return.

Dauron spoke for a long while and then hesitated for a moment, and a shadow crossed his face. These were the things he had so hoped to share with Calwyn....once....long ago, now it seemed. Sighing he watched Gareth, his hand on the small of Nell's back, sharing with her the same sights and, laughing suddenly, the shadow passed on. Poking Naden in the shoulder, and pointing in their direction, his eyes full of mirth, he chuckled. "Not a bad buy we made at that tavern, wouldn't you say?"
Life is good! Live it to the fullest. Love well those near and dear. "You cannot step into the same river twice, for the waters are ever flowing on ....." Heraclitus I Aear cân ven na mar
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