Entry Six: The Misty Mountains Cold...
After an enchanting night within the Hall of Fire, the time had come to prepare for the dangerous part of the campaign. One would arrive early, making sure Illith was prepared for the vast journey deep into the Misty Mountains. The Elves provided one with some heavy blankets, suitable to cover Illith with to keep her warm. He was grateful for such and act as he was the day the House of Elrond presented her to him.
As it would seem to be a reoccurring trend, Leorthir was next to arrive at the Stables, though not long followed by the others. One’s trust in some has yet been given, but to look among those and not respect what is about to be done would be fool hardy. Fiontann would lead the way, as Rogue would joust about needing to speak with someone on the path. In honesty, one grew tired of the snail-like pace the Company took. So for once, he rode ahead and not behind. We soon arrived, leaving the Vale and crossing into the blistering cold known as the Misty Mountains.
A mass gust of wind and howls of what lurked within the lands, startled the horses and sent most to the ground. Some ran off, though one was lucky enough to catch Illith by the reigns and eased her nerves. Taala would appear to be one of the only few who stayed upon her horse. Being one of the Eorlings truly showed in this one moment. Nightfall would hit the Company hard and Fiontann called for us to set up camp. As the others huddled by the fire, one would stand watch in the blistering cold.
A few hours passed before we where met with threat. The pattering of rushing paws, could be heard echoing towards us. The sound growing louder and building momentum. It was one, who then spotted the approaching Warg Pack. Wargs... A bane of existence. One has had his share of dealings with them in the past, but not under these conditions. The Company would form a circular formation, fending off what they could as Warg after Warg lunged to attack. Few would receive injury, but in the end the Company triumphed.
After dousing the fire as the dawn broke, it was time to move on. For hours we traversed the deep snow, some even struggling to keep their footing. Taala would slip, taking a tumble down the hill though would appear to be fine. One broke quiet words with the girl as we lingered a short distance behind the others. Words of comfort, telling Taala that her father would surely be proud of her accolades she has accomplished on this quest. Hardoleth may have treated some unfairly, but knew when to give respect and praise.
We would come to a dead end, at the base of the mountain. Both Fiontann and Rogue would scout for a path but would appear unsuccessful in finding one. One knew in his heart, that there was only one... We would need to go other the mountain, not around it. One would leave the Company a moment and scout on his own. His history in this place brought to memory a small path which would lead up the Cliffside. Though in time, the path had grown narrower it did remain. After returning and informing Fiontann, we would continue upward before setting camp for this night.
Many would simply want to rest, removing what they had and huddling by the fire. One would again, stay distant from the others, looking down over the vast snowy plains below. The starlit sky making the snow twinkle in the night. Fiontann would soon join one, where we would should share deep and thoughtful conversation. He certainly is a man of honour and one is humble to call him brother. Tomorrow we shall set forth, crossing the High Pass and attempt to find the item of interest.
Let us hope that it is worth it and this quest has not been in vain.
Let us hope... we all return home...
