Report for the attention of Curugirion, regarding the delivery of his message to the Master of Gondamon.
(The report in contained in a neatly rolled scroll, sealed with a blue ribbon, presented to Curugirion two nights after the return of Aearlinn, Hadorear and Istuir from Gondamon. Written in Sindarin, the script is in Aearlinn’s flowing, but slightly hurried hand, and in a more straightforward manner than her usual recording of events.)
Echuir 14th
Suil Curugirion, Hirgonui o Mithdirith-i-Lonnath!
Please find herein my report of the recent task assigned me.
Regarding the bearing of your message to the Master of Gondamon:
Upon our arrival at Gondamon, I enquired of the stable master as to where I may find Mathi Stouthand. His reply was curt, but civil. I observed that our small group, while not exactly welcomed by the Dwarven inhabitants, was treated with outward politeness by most. Some of the Dwarves gave but little notice of our presence, and it seemed as if they were busy upon tasks of their own, with only a few standing in conversation with each other. I asked my escort if they would remain in the vicinity of the stables until my return.
Upon reaching the Master of Gondamon on the upper level of the fortress, I introduced myself, and explained the reason for the presence of our party. Although Mathi was not overly forthcoming in conversation, he listened carefully, and with the good grace of most of his folk, to my words of greeting. After presenting him with your letter, I stood back a step that he might read without being overlooked. Though he gave no word as to whether your message met with his approval or otherwise, he did read thoroughly, and nodded several times in a manner that suggested he was not ill pleased.
Mathi bid me carry greetings to yourself in return, giving his word that he would discuss your message with others of his company in the near future. I believe something of import was under way at Gondamon that much occupied his thoughts at that time, though the Dwarf would say naught of his plans to a stranger, and she an edhel. He did say that he hoped a reply would be sent you within two moons.
While I could discern not the outcome of your letter to him, I did feel most strongly that Mathi considered your words carefully, and will honour his own word. It must also be noted than another Dwarf stood nearby during my meeting, observing the interaction most carefully. At first I thought him an advisor of Mathi’s, but as we were not introduced, I cannot be certain. This Dwarf was most considerate of manner and, although a little gruff, showed great curiosity in what your letter may contain. If there are others like he and Mathi then there is hope that matters may come to a favourable conclusion.
Regarding my escort and the northern patrol route:
It must be said that Hadorear and Istuir conducted themselves with the exceptional skill and good manners one would expect of our Herth. They were quietly courteous whilst in Gondamon, standing at ease that they in no way offered hint of threat, or reason for disagreement with the dwarves. They encountered Saerdir at the time I was speaking with Mathi, and he halting at Gondamon to refresh himself and his horse en-route to Duillond from the north. Saerdir sends his regards to you. He joined with us on the return journey as far as the branch in the path that leads to Duillond itself.
Rather than return immediately to Thamas Lorn, I led my companions along the northern patrol route, as instructed by you. Istuir seemed concerned for my safety, particularly once we left the path near Haudh Lin, and preferred I rode in the middle of the column as often as possible. Both he and Hadorear saw to my well-being at all times. I introduced both to Dongandel briefly. Saerdir he already knew. All three then engaged in a brief but thorough attack upon the spider population who, according to Dongandel, are multiplying alarmingly. That particular population was somewhat decimated by the skill of the Wardens, though doubtless the spiders will return in numbers given any opportunity so to do. Dongandel was pleased with the action taken.
We spent but half of one hour overlooking the port of Kheledul, that Hadorear and Istuir might know the best vantage points. Little was transpiring there on that occasion, though we know not fully what plans the Dourhands make in secret. After observing Kheledul, we rode home with the wind at our backs that we encountered no others upon the path.
If you will allow, Hirgonui, I would like to commend both Hadorear and Istuir as most capable kin-brothers, both of whom I would trust with my life. Mayhap you would also make mention to Aearandir, upon his return from Echad Rond, that Hadorear carried out his wishes most conscientiously. I shall make mention of it to him myself when next we meet.
Fair winds and bright stars to you.
Aearlinn, Pethroval o Mithdirith-i-Lonnath.
