I almost did not bring you, book. Nor any writing implements. I must take care not to wake the woman by my side. She keeps stirring, and I do not wish to have to explain your existence. It is an unusually quiet night in the Trollshaws but that in itself is ominous, I find I cannot rest, the memories of this place. The bank of the Hoarwell. They keep me awake.
My first memory, of the young nobleman I was privileged to share the road with, the catankerous Dwarf. And the Elf-maiden who gifted me a pearl of the First Age. I still keep that with me, safe. Hidden. She was a beauty the likes I had never seen before.
She dispelled many of the myths my people propagate of her kin. I will never forget her as long as I live. She did not return my affections for I am but mortal man. But to simply look upon her beauty, in the flesh. Bare in the moonlight. That was enough for me. I had not intended to look, it was pure chance I came by that water at so late an hour. I half-expected I would be struck down with the same lightning speed I had witnessed her dispatch the goblins on our travels for my troubles but she was most forgiving. I was fortunate to camp with them here, our journey was fruitful. After I had abandoned my inherited wealth I came into it again. We slew a troll. It's hoard was ours. Though I will not boast, I asked the young nobleman to omit me from the tales as I recall them. It was truly an adventure worthy of song, perhaps.
I think of the Rat. Her love for me, was simple. It was pure. We should never have camped here, never left on that fool-hardy second adventure. Though it enabled me to quietly lift more of the treasure hoard I had discovered with the Dwarf and the nobleman, unbeknown to the other hunters of treasure that were with us. Perhaps a man would feel guilty for pilfering behind his comrades back, but not I.
Fate set in motion the beginning of the end for me and the Rat. A woman, who I will simply refer to as the Snake. She manipulated the situation, took advantage of a misunderstanding between us. When the host of our company sighted us both naked on the riverbank it was not what it looked like. But that was all it took, upon our return to Bree vicious rumours took hold. The intrusion into my private life was intolerable, being what I am. A man that could potentially see the noose for his crimes within the walls.
Now, I sit upon this bank a third time. The mercenary company of the late Captain of whom I was so fond. My mind more with my thoughts, but I am happier to be here. The atmosphere is more cordial than my last visit to these bleak lands. Bar the skirmish with the Orcs earlier near the Last Bridge, it has been very easy-going so far.
I think of my childhood friend back in Towerglan, proprietor of that house which tempts me so much into stepping over it's threshold. Was I taking advantage of her grief, I do my best to shake her from my mind. But I cannot. She is the one link I have to happier times. She and the Captain's daughter do not get on, I can see why. Lucky then that I am so diplomatic when I choose to be.
I'm certain my affairs take care of themselves, my wagons took to the road come the new year and I left the management of it in the hands of a capable man I trust. I will maintain my business interests outside the company, maintain my independence in that regard.
I have to. It is most strange, being in company. Having those who fight beside you consider you brother. Treat you as such. Stick by you. I have always maintained an aloofness around my caravan guards. Foregone attachments as you surely must know reader. In a sense, I like it. It reminds me of the feeling I had as a boy. Though I still largely feel drawn to the fringes. But do I know how to react to it? No, that is a mystery which continues to elude me. There is a glimmer of hope within me. In spite of my gloom over events past. I have settled into the village well. Even set about motion an idea I had shortly after returning from Gondor about giving this place it's very own Inn.
But now, I will put you down, book. Lest I do genuinely risk discovery by my bed-warmer at this time. She seems to have had a rough past as well. You do get around, as she says.
It is time I slept, bade this starry night farewell and look to the coming dawn. I'm certain we won't be bothered by any Trolls. I hope.
