Found:
I departed the camp before first light, as always. Atharann looked akin to a snowman, having opted to stay outside whilst I spent the night snuggled up to the wonderful Jackilyn. Still, as comfortable and cuddly as the fur-wrapped Bree-land woman was, it was time to be on my way.
Places to go!
I didn't see too much of the Dwarven hold on my way in. I was more interested in checking out the elf ruins that sit high above before the bitter cold air could stiffen me enough to prevent the climb! So, up I went, and what a sight it was to behold! I've seen many such places in my time; Enedwaith is full of them. But this was something different. Though abandoned and left to crumble, as all of them are, it was still wonderfully beautiful.
I didn't get much time to examine the carvings or remaining structures, however, for as I made a preliminary exploration, I happened across a man atop one of the soaring bridges. He seemed pleasant enough, so I lingered to speak with him. We had been doing so for several minutes before I realised who it was!
The very person I had decided not to seek out!
Whatever happened to him, wherever he has been this last year, it has resulted in marked improvement. He smiled. He laughed. He even engaged in banter! It would seem that the black moods, the suspicion and bile, have all been left behind him and for that I am so very glad! It's been too long since I saw even the smallest hint of joy upon those handsome features.
He wrapped me within his cloak knowing how much I detest the chill. I protested initially. I didn't want him freezing to death either! But he insisted that he would endure the walk back to the hold easily enough and, in truth, I was beyond dithering at that point. Desert-dweller blood is a fine thing in a hot climate. Not so much upon a snow-capped mountain where your breath will freeze in the air no sooner than it has left your lips!
The walk to the hold was a chore. Why would such small people need so many bloody steps?! But it was worth it. The craftsmanship, the sweeping heights and so perfectly carved pillars and statues were enough to take my breath away! It didn't hurt, of course, that my tall and sturdy escort saw fit to throw me over his shoulder like a sack of spuds and carry me further in lest all these extra stairs prove problematic. I got to enjoy the view of both the hall and the man's perfectly chiseled posterior!
A good day for me!
We sat just outside the forges, basking in the heat. It was sublime! Further conversation, more laughter and even more banter! If this proves to be more than just a one-off, then I shall assume my faith in him has been vindicated. I hardly recognise him as the same man from the North Downs. He was neither angry or accusatory when I explained to him my plan and how close it has come to fruition. He wasn't supportive in the same manner that Atharann has been, but nor did he belittle or dismiss. He listened. He even seemed pleased.
For however long it may last, I shall be certain to enjoy it.
In the meantime, perhaps those bloody dreams will now stop.
