Bending over the parchment with a bemused look on her face, Orlenne writes quickly
Well, I realise it's been quite a while since I've put quill to parchment, but life has been so busy lately. And all because of my sewing skills! And I seem to make it busier for myself. I saw this man at the Prancing Pony with his leather armour in such bad condition, I just had to offer my services. He was a bit reluctant at first, some of the types that frequent the Pony are so introverted! Hardly say a word to anyone, just stand there staring morosely into the fire or watch the other patrons suspiciously. Sometimes it can be quite disturbing. But back to the point. At first he just nodded and thanked me, at which I left him to his own devices, having a word or two with Craign who was visiting the Pony at the same time. A few minutes later the man I had approached came to ask if I would mend his armour after all. Of course I consented, at his request taking it to a back room for more privacy. Craign followed us, for which I was rather grateful, one never knows with strangers these days.
I fetched my sewing kit from my room and went about my business. The armour was in some disrepair and had obviously seen some use. Trying to make conversation, I asked the man his name. It turned out to be Svikt. He was hardly the chatty type, his answers coming out in monosyllables if any were forthcoming at all. Craign seemed to take a disliking to him, for which I can hardly blame him, Svikt was very closemouthed. Asked where he came from, he muttered something vaguely about Rohan, upon which Craign said something to him in Rohirric I presume, for I didn't understand a word of it! Svikt just looked at him, replying something about his Rohirric being rusty. Very suspicious! After that the conversation was sporadic at best, I concentrating on my work and Craign throwing Svikt suspicious looks, who just stood against the wall nonchalantly, sometimes looking around the room, sometimes looking back at Craign, sometimes watching me work. At last I finished the mending. When it came time to pay, Svikt handed me what I thought were normal coins, so I took them without a second thought.
I took my leave of the both of them and was headed out for some fresh air, when Svikt caught up with me outside, looking a little sheepish and asking if he could have a word. I stopped, wondering if he were unsatisfied with my work. He then confessed that the coins he had given me weren't actually real coins, just iron discs painted silver. I took them out and looked at them closely, only then seeing them for what they were; he was telling the truth. I looked up at him in shock as he explained he had no real coin and had no other means of payment, but that he now felt remorse and wanted to make it up to me. I was wondering how he could if he had no coin, but he then suggested he take me on a trip to the Shire, as he had heard they had some wonderful types of thread there, just the thing for a seamstress such as I. Looking at him, listening to his voice, I decided he was trying to do the right thing, so consented. We decided on taking the trip the next day, and took our leave of each other, he seeming satisfied and me feeling rather disconcerted. I have already packed, but only tomorrow will tell if this stranger will show up. I have asked Eoryn to accompany us, which she does willingly, she is dying to get some fishing done in the Shire! At least, if the man Svikt doesn't show up, she and I will go together.
Orlenne looks over at the bag she has packed for the trip, a look of concentration on her face as she considers what she will be taking with her. After a few minutes, she nods to herself, then makes ready for bed.
