I find myself unable to sleep, for a deep fear within me that I shan't name at this time. Perhaps after such things are through, and peace is once again a word that could describe even one moment, I can bring myself to write of it and record the happenings. I will not forget. I will speak of different things, and perhaps my mind will not dwell on this.
I have met a few people in recent days. Anurania and Ajwan are two lasses who recently asked if they could apprentice beneath me. I believe the Watcher Furley sent Miss Ajwan to inquire if she could apprentice, but I told her I would find her a place to stay as well. Ani, however, I met in the Prancing Pony, as I was speaking with Hamadryt. She was such a sweet thing and reminded me of myself. (More appropriately, parts of myself I could have been.) She met me again in a tavern in Hookworth...though my mind cannot recall the name of the tavern. I had gone there to speak with Brynleigh, and she was indeed there, as were two people I did not know, and Master Aeroden. (I keep forgetting his name. Fortunate that I remembered when I did not need to.)
Unfortunately, Brynleigh and Aeroden left shortly thereafter, along with the woman I did not know. The man I hadn't known before was named Jonnathan, and he, Ani and I were left alone. Jonn was such cheerful company...very enjoyable. I soon forgot my worries, with those two keeping me company. I do not recall how, but the conversation turned to horses, and Jonn spoke of his Rohirric War-Steed. Ani was timid of it, but I was rather curious. We walked outside and met his steed, and what a beauty it was! Though a part of his hair was scorched, (getting him a well-earned name) he was a lovely creature. And so sweet! I was surprised at how inaccurate Jonn's words were of him. However, I could tell Jonn and him had a somewhat begrudging camaraderie. (Secretly, I believe they truly love each other as only horse and master could.) Oddly enough, however, I do hope at some point he can meet my own horse, Windtrod. They are both of Rohan, and such wonderful steeds, I imagine they could be very amusing to watch interact. Not as amusing as Jonn and he were, I am sure, however. Jonn would likely be amusing with whatever he was interacting with.
Anyway, Ani soon visited me at the infirmary and asked how she could help, so I set her and Miss Ajwan on crushing dried herbs. Ajwan soon left and I was stuck attempting to think of how Ani could help more. We went out to my herb garden and began to weed it, giving me a chance to inquire after her life. I learned that she lived among the Beornings, whom I had thought to be merely myth! I was enjoying our conversation, when a Watcher shoved a rather unhealthy man through my gate. I could see he favored his leg, yet the Watcher was still so rough with him. He was rather starved looking and dirty. I shooed the Watcher off and immediately began to tend to the man's leg, which was broken, and had been for six days. I needed to reset it from within, so Ani helped me with the operation. We did well, I think, and Master Taragen lives on. He is in pain, of course, though he said it is not as bad.
Shortly before the surgery, I was pleasantly surprised by a visit from Hamadryt. He said he had been away from Bree, and recalled that there was something going on that hit quite near home for me, so he asked where my infirmary was and came to inquire after me. It warmed my heart, and I wished I could have spoken more to him, but I could only offer him tea and begin the surgery on Taragen's leg. He said he did not mind waiting, and sat drinking tea for a little while. Unfortunately, the surgery took awhile and he had to take his leave. But I deeply appreciated him checking. I only wish there was no reaso I will continue to not write of what keeps coming to mind. However, it will have to wait, as I hear Hazel calling me. I hope it's not about Carria. ~Ash
