story

It has been two days and well into noon, by now. Despite so, this did not trouble Nenusidh, perhaps it was one of the reasons why he had to set out so quickly, which was the journey will be a while in itself. He has made way into the steep hills of Nan Amlug, the area where the forest breaks into hill and deep valleys.

It was a cold winter, especially moreso in the northern regions such as the woods of Annúndir that resided between the Fields of Fornost and Kingsfell. Despite the temperature, the day was glowing, but the sun hid behind a mask of clouds. It was to be expected as light comes with heat, and if heat was masked so should light.

Dunnarwen had always been very sure of herself. This time around, however, she had to admit, she was a little doubtful. As her horse plodded through the desert-like terrain of the Barandalf, she thought long and hard about her purpose. Did she even have a legitimate purpose? She wondered about that one particular question the most. She needed to get a grip. At this rate, she would get caught unawares and then she'll be in trouble for sure.

She spent the night at Stock, and before sunrise the next day proceeded towards the Bucklebury Ferry.

"Oh yes, I remember him," the ferryhobbit said. "Polite lad, crossed over just a few days ago." He gave her a curious look. "Friend of yours?"

Rosa couldn't sleep, and the late watches found her kicking pebbles into the Brockenborings pond.

Where would Fred have gone?

She stared into the water, which reflected only dim starlight. Fred quite liked ponds, and even rivers. He was curious about boats (though to her knowledge, he'd never been on anything bigger than a fishing raft). Grandma Esme had a book about the waterways of the Shire, with lots of pictures, and when he was little Fred always used to turn straight to--

Bucklebury Ferry!

Rosa slipped out of the Green Dragon early that Friday, collecting her pack from underneath the bench by the door. 

It was time to go home.

While she walked, she thought about her mother's letter.

Rosa sat at the kitchen table for several minutes before she realized one hand was over her mouth and had been for quite some time. The other hand still held the letter.

...is in quite a State, naturally. Your Uncle Will has made Inquiries with the local Bounders, but they are stumped, which, all respect to Cousin Fred, is not a terrible Surprise.