The five travellers gather for a short time in the longhouse and enjoy a commoner's breakfast. Nrulias joins them, along with his two Olmani followers. They talk of the broo, mostly, and what might have driven them so far north. It is all speculation, however, but is good conversation nonetheless.

As the group collects their belongings, fills their waterskins, and prepares for the day's journey, Nrulias approaches and tells them that Hegi wishes them well and that they will always be welcome in Werthyn. Nrulias then produces a bundle of arrows (24) and hands them to Atan. There are Olmani craftsmanship, so a bit shorter than the elven arrows he and Yimris are used to, but the heads are sharp and strong. Nrulias also gives each of them two extra bowstrings, and it is a simple matter of trimming them to the proper length. Yimris, of course, immediately sets about the task and it is only a few minutes before he is testing the draw on his repaired short bow.

The watchman provides the group with enough bread and salted meat for two days travel, and offers a spare waterskin to anyone who needs it. Nrulias encourages everyone to come back if they need work, assuring them that the farmers are good hosts and value their protectors.

Sadly, neither Hegi nor her pretty young disciple see them off, but it is a confident and refreshed group that takes the north road through the expansive farmlands. The dusty road winds through flat fields of golden wheat, apple orchards and simple houses surrounded by bountiful gardens. Several miles out from the village and the fertile farmland becomes more bare and rocky as it approaches the sea. By mid-morning the road bends westward until it reaches the well worn coast road leading to Dobrug.

By following the road the travellers make much better time than the day before. They pause at a cluster of boulders for lunch and a chance to give their travel worn feet a rest. Although it is not uncommon for the roads between settlements to be devoid of travel at this time of year, everyone at least hoped to encounter some other folks on the road. Yet, no one is seen. It is a bit odd, but nothing to be concerned about...

It is only a couple hours after lunch that the keen-eyed elves spot the familiar stone tower on the hill above Grugni's house. Soon the house itself can be seen, as well as the cluster of crude huts that house the fishermen.

It is almost like an odd sort of homecoming - so much has happened in the short day since they left in pursuit of the broo. And what sort of tales will the others have to tell, they wonder.

The flowing brown hair of Vala is the first sign of life that emerges from the house as she dances onto the porch and gives the group a big wave while they are still a few minutes from the place. She darts back in and soon Madragar, Draxim, Ruig, Grugni and Kezib emerge with her.

Atan and Yimris speak simultaneously. "Well at least no one got killed." Then they both laugh.

[New thread: Reunion.]

Edited by: Jubilex at: 12/16/02 8:00:22 pm