Hello! I know it's been a little while since I updated, but I have a real job now so that is probably going to be the norm from now on. This is the longest chapter yet so yay!
Thank you to Marie and BookL0ver1998 for reviewing and to anyone who has faved or followed my story.
I will have the songs used listed below. I suggest you check them out. I own nothing.
Chapter 10
Nemir continued to be enthralled by the ship for the majority of the day. She stayed stationed by the bow, but would occasionally lap around the deck to observe the crew's various activities. They tolerated her presence, but none really acknowledged her beyond the curious glance. She didn't know if this was because they were usually unfriendly to outsiders or because of the threat issued by their captain. It finally took an angry growl from her stomach for her to realize how late it had become as she glanced up at the descending sun. She hadn't eaten since before sunrise and hunger slammed into her like a wave, so she made her way back to her room to eat some of the bread and cheese her mother insisted she bring. She lounged in her hammock as she alternated bites of bread and cheese, enjoying the gentle sway of the ship. By the time she had returned to the deck, the sun was halfway below the horizon and the sky was engulfed in golds, reds, and purples. She stayed and watched the sky until it turned dark allowing for the moon and stars to shine. Nemir decided in that moment that she could have a happy life sailing on the sea, if the moment ever presented itselfs. She found a secluded area, formed a makeshift seat from piles of rope, and star gazed late into the night.
The next day proceed like the one before, with the 1st mate occasionally checking on her to make sure she hadn't gotten lost. That evening Nemir decided to bring her harp to the deck hoping to be inspired by the beautiful scenery. She playfully plucked the strings creating a series of random melodies till she found one that suited her mood. The tune starred slow and subtle but gradually increased in speed and intensity as her fingers nimbly moved along the strings she began to sing,
A timeless and forgotten place,
The moon and sun in endless chase
Each in quiet surrender
as the other reigns the sky...
The midnight hour begins to laugh
A summer evening's epitaph
The winds are getting crazy
As the storm begins to rise...
Wild were the winds that came
In the thunder and the rain
Nothing ever could contain
The rising of the storm...
In the wing of ebony
Darkened waves fill the trees
Wild winds of warning
Echo through the air...
Follow the storm, I've got to get out of here...
Follow the storm as you take to the sky...
Follow the storm now it's all so crystal clear,
Follow the storm as the storm begins to rise...
She was startled from her song when an older man with thin graying hair, hooked nose, and bent back rushed toward her yelling. "Stupid girl!," he bellowed, "are you trying to doom us all? Don't you know it's bad luck to talk about a storm much less sing songs about them! " Nemir was so surprised by his outburst that she wasn't sure how to react. She sat frozen, staring up at him, eyes wide. He finally hobbled way grumbling loudly to himself, "Should have known better than to bring a woman on board, bad luck they aree…."
She was embarrassed to find that a small group of sailors had formed and witnessed the confrontation. Heat flushed her face, and she scurried to collect her instrument and retreat to her room, but was stopped when Ravondir approached her. "Don't worry about Old Greg," he said as sent her a reassuring smile, "he's a bit too superstitious for his own good. He thinks everything can incur the wrath of Ossë."
She didn't know that her grandfather had such a reputation, and she wondered if her relation to him would be considered good or back luck in the old man's eyes. "If you know a happier tune, I'm sure the men would like to hear it. You sing beautifully and it's not often we have entertainment," said the 1st mate and several of the crew nodded in agreement. Nemir smiled and ran her hands across her harp creating a rising crescendo, and began a classic sea shanty she knew crew would be familiar with.
What do you do with a drunken sailor,
What do you do with a drunken sailor,
What do you do with a drunken sailor,
Earl-eye in the morning!
Way hay and up she rises
Way hay and up she rises
Way hay and up she rises
Earl-eye in the morning
Throw him in the lock-up 'til he's sober,
Throw him in the lock-up 'til he's sober,
Throw him in the lock-up 'til he's sober,
Earl-eye in the morning!
It didn't take long for the crew to join in, and soon their rough and hearty voices filled the air, and a few even began clapping and stomping to the beat adding to the energy. As the song ended, Nemir was rewarded with a joyful applause and requests for another song. She obliged and this continued for a couple hours until Ravondir reminded the crew they still had to be up with the dawn. The men thanked her for her serenade as most retreated below deck to finally sleep for the night. She was surprised to find that she was tired as well, so she followed suit and traveled down to her closet room where she slumped into her hammock. The sound of the waves and rocking of the ship lulled her to sleep within minutes.
When Nemir stepped onto the deck the next morning, she was excited to see the faint outline of a tower off in the distance. They should be arriving at the large port within a few hours, and even this far out she had already spotted 2 other ships sailing the same course. She returned below deck to free her blue striped cloak from her bag and ensure that the rest of her belongings were accounted for. She wanted to be prepared when the time came, so she could fully enjoy the experience. Finally she rushed back to the deck and headed straight for the bow to gain the best view of the approaching city. It started slowly with clusters of simple houses sprinkled along the shore, but as the tower grew larger, buildings became more frequent and closer together. The number of boats increased as well, some were small fishing vessels like the ones back home, but others were much larger like "The Crownless King" probably carrying goods from all over the kingdom. Eventually the massive city walls placed high upon the cliffs, came into view, and even at such a great distance they still took Nemir's breath away. Never before had she seen such man made formations, and she couldn't even fathom how they were created. The city jutted out into the bay and was connected to the mainland by only one side. She could hear the faint chiming of a bell coming from the Sea-ward tower as the ship turned toward a giant wall made of white stone that extended from the city wall. The wall ran parallel to the shore, creating a smaller entrance to the wharf that could be more easily guarded called the Sea-Gate. The tower itself seemed as tall as a mountain and the island it sat upon was connected to the peninsula by a wide, stone bridge. She craned her neck upward trying to get a better look at the impressive building but the ship turned sharply to enter the gate.
There were several other boats waiting to dock, so Nemir ran down to gather her things and don her cloak. She placed the hood over her hair to conceal its color, but kept her face clear. When she returned, the boat was slowly approaching a large pier and the crew were frantically throwing, pulling, and tying ropes to secure it to the wooden walk way as Captain Glamon shouted orders. She tried to stay free of the organized chaos as she viewed the impressive number of docks that spread through the man made bay. Things seemed to finally calm down once the boat became secure, and Nemir approached the captain, "Nemir!" he greeted his voice still booming from yelling orders.
"Captain Glamon, I wanted to voice my gratitude before saying goodbye," she said with a smile and small curtsy.
"It was no problem at all," he reassured, "I'm sorry I didn't see you more during your journey, but a captain's work is never done. We plan to stay in port to a couple weeks, so don't hesitate to contact me if needed. It's a beautiful city, but it has it's fair share of nasty characters."
" I'm forever grateful for the kindness you've shown me. Perhaps you could recommend a reputable inn where I may find a room for the next few days?" she asked.
"Yes, you best find one soon. Everywhere will be filling up due the festival. While sailors usually visit shader establishments, I've heard that The Dark Crab is safe for travelers. Just ask around, it's well known," he said.
"I'll be sure to do that. Thank you again," and after a final wave she pulled her bags onto her shoulders and headed toward the gangplank.
The wharf was vast, but luckily the entrance was marked by giant, imposing figures made of stone. Two men garged in uniforms, one holding a map and the other a compas. She gracefully wove her way through the crowds of people as they rushed about conducting their business, and exited out the gates. She wasn't quite prepared for the sight before her as stone buildings several stories high greeted her. The sight stopped her in her tracks as she turned her eyes above and around, but the people behind her didn't appreciate this and collided with her as they walked past. She got out of the middle of the street, and took a moment to collect herself. She didn't realize till now, that finding Morfindir was going to be a lot more complicated than she originally thought. She knew no one, and would certainly get lost in the maze of streets since Dol Amroth could swallow Fish Farm at least 100 times. She hadn't felt this naive and unsure since her 15th birthday, and tried fighting down a rising bubble of panic by taking a deep calming breath to focus her thoughts. Her parents had provided her with coin for a room, and she simply needed to walk around a bit to become more familiar with the area and perhaps find someone to ask about The Dark Crab. Even if she didn't find that particular establishment, a city this size was certain to have no shortage of places to stay.
Feeling slightly less overwhelmed, Nemir continued to walk through the city, staying on the widest road, which unfortunately seemed to be the busiest as well. She was glad she had hidden most of her money deep within her bag because it would be easy to be pickpocketed in such crowds. The streets were lined with stores and stall, their wares displayed to lure in customers. She stayed in the market area for a time as she examined all the exotic goods she never would have seen back home like silks, foreign fruits, and fine jewelry. She eventually continued on, but paused at the sound of flowing water. She followed the noise untill she discovered a large open area with a stone fountain at its center. The fountain was made from stone and was caved in the form of 3 mermaids, balanced upon their tails and pouring vases into the , circular basin below. She couldn't help but smile at this reminder of home and viewed the finding as a good omen. Around the base was stationed various performers and people were stopping to observe the different acts. There was a man in bright clothing juggling balls, sticks, and knives, another performing sleight of hand, and a minstrel playing a fiddle who was accompanied by a dancing woman. Nemir wondered if they were also here for the Yaviere festival as it was a draw for many traveling performers.
She drew closer to the fountain to better observe the musical couple as she was always trying to learn new songs to add to her collection. The one he played now was familiar to her, but the lyrics varied slightly and the tempo was quicker. The couple were obviously foreignern as they lacked the dark hair and grey eyes that were typically found in the city and the surrounding areas. The man was nimble with honey blond hair and sparkling blue eyes making her think he was perhaps of Rohan decent, but the woman had hair the color of flames and eyes that shone like emeralds. Nemir had never seen such color and it flowed around as she danced. They had managed to drawn quite the crowd and she couldn't help but notice that most of them were men. The man's voice was pleasant enough and his fingers skilled, but it was easy to see who the focus was. As the song ended, she added to the applause and approached to place a copper coin into the bag.
"Ah, a complement always means more when it comes from a fellow artist," greeted the man with a flourish and bow when he spotted Nemir's multicolored cloke.
"You're welcome," she said with a smile, "I quite enjoyed your performance. How long have you been in Dol Amroth?"
"We arrived a couple days ago," joined in the woman, "but more arrive each day. I'm sure this celebration will be the largest seen in some time."
"I had no idea Yaviere would be this big of a draw. Back home there was some celebrating, but nothing to this scale, " commented Nemir.
"Well when you have a city this large and beautiful, why not show it off. Though we were worried that the recent orc sightings would keep people from traveling," added the man.
"I had heard something about that, but I didn't think it had gotten that bad," said Nemir shocked, "did you encounter any of those monsters during your travels?"
"Thank Eru, we didn't during this trip, but we've had some close calls," said the woman extending a hand to Nemir. "I'm Finna and this is my husband Walden."
"Pleasure to meet you both," she said with a smile.
"What is your speciality?" asked Walden.
"I'm an aspiring bard," replied Nemir shyly, "My instrument of choice is the harp."
"A fellow musician!" he exclaimed, "Would you honor us by joining our performance for a song?"
"I'm flattered, but I must find a place for the night to keep my things. Are either of you familiar with The Dark Crab? It was recommended to me by a friend," she asked hopefully.
"Ah yes, I've heard of The Dark Crab," said Finna. "It's mostly used by traveling merchants and the owner has a reputation for being honest."
"You wouldn't happen to know where it is? I have yet to find it in this massive place," she asked hopefully.
"I think it's not too far from here, down that street with the anchor sign," said Walden as he pointed to his left. "And if you aren't able to find a room there, stop by the Dancing Dolphin a little farther down. We've stayed there before and they are fond of musicians."
"Thank you both so much," she felt so blessed to have met this friendly couple.
"After you get settled, please come join us. I know what it's like to be away from home for the first time," invited Finna with a kind smile.
"Is it that obvious?" cringed Nemir.
"Only to those of us who have lived it," reassured Finna.
Nemir nodded in farewell as she made her way down street pointed out to her by Walden. Colorful signs carved with interesting illustrations lined the air, and she was surprised by the lack of script. She continued down until she came upon a sign in the shape of a large crab that was so darkened with age it was almost black in color. "This must be it," thought Nemir as she turned toward the 3 story building made of stone and plaster with a wooden slat roof. She entered the door to find a large common area full of wooden tables and chairs, a bar, and an impressively tall fireplace. A middle aged woman with rich brown hair and a plump figure was busily rushing around behind the bar area preparing for the evening rush. She called out without looking away from her work, "How can I help you?".
Nemir approached the woman, "I was hoping to rent a room here for a week, if one is available.."
"You're in luck, we only have a couple left. A room for a week will set you back 10 gold deary." She finally paused from her cleaning to look at Nemir, "Hh, we don't get many performers here."
"My ship's captain recommended your establishment," she said as she dug for her coin pouch. She counted out 10 gold coins and handed them to the woman who seemed fascinated by the image engraved on the currency.
"Is something wrong?" asked Nemir nervously.
"These don't bear the Steward's mark, but only have the White Tree on both sides," she said her brows furrowed as she brought each coin to her eye.
"Is that a problem?"
"No, but it's been at least 200 years since this style was made, so you don't see them very often. Where did you get them?" asked the woman.
"My parent's gave them to me. They have been saving for some time and I'm from a very small village so I doubt much coin goes in or out," explained Nemir.
"I suppose that could explain it…" agreed the woman hesitantly, "I guess it doesn't really matter anyway. Here is your key. Don't lose it, because I won't give you another. Your room is on the second floor and has a blue diamond on the door. We will provide you with a dinner each evening, but the rest of your meals are your responsibility. If you cause trouble, I will force you to leave. Understood?"
"Yes ma'am" nodded Nemir as she retrieved the key and gathered her luggage, finally being able to breathe now that the lady had accepted her story about the odd coins. She didn't ask her mother where they got the coin for her trip, but she had a strong suspicion that it involved an ancient shipwreck at the bottom of the bay. Before she left she turned back to the woman, "I'm looking a friend of mine, are you familiar with man named Morfindir?"
"Can't say that I am," she said still focused on her task.
"Would you know the best way I could find him?" she asked hopefully.
"Not sure. It's a big city," the woman grumbled, "Is he a soldier or a boat man?"
"Well, we worked on the fishing boats back home…" replied the bard.
"Check down at the Salty Dog Tavern farther down the lane. It's popular with boys down at the docks."
"Thank you!" she was thrilled to have a place the start. The woman simply grunted and Nemir left her to continue her work. Her room was simple but cozy with a single bed, wash stand, and a stool. She walked to the window and it faced into the alley that was shared between the two buildings. It wasn't the best view, but she was glad to have a source of fresh air. She stripped off her travel clothes and used the water in the basin to wash off any sweat or dust. She would need to find a place to wash them eventually, and changed into a pair of bright colbalt blue pants with legs so wide it mimicked a skirt, an off shoulder, white blouse, and a grey leather corset embellished with a simple intertwining designs. The pants had a hidden pocket which allowed her to access the blade placed there since she decided not to bring her staff. Finally she unbraided her hair and combed through the knots, before pulling back the top so it hid her ears and letting the bottom hang free in waves down her back. The dim light from the setting sun shouldn't draw attention to her inhuman coloring. Feeling refreshed, she fetched her harp satchel and left to return to the fountain after securing her room.
The crowds down at the courtyard had increased, and she observed that the mix was made of dockworkers, sailors, and soldiers who were finished with the day's work. Men carrying torches were also traveling around lighting large fire basins placed strategically to provide additional light. She spotted Walden and Finna and made her way through the masses toward them.
"Nemir!" exclaimed Finna as she waved her over, "I'm glad you came back. Did you find your inn?"
"I did, thanks to you," she said with a grateful smile as she retrieved her harp.
"That is a lovely instrument you have there," said Walden as he leaned forward to get a better look at the harp, "the craftsmanship is impeccable. I bet it plays like a dream."
"Thank you, my parents gave it to me for my 15th birthday. My Father taught me out to play since I was a little girl," she explained as she fondly stroked the smooth wood.
"Please provide us a demonstration," he encouraged with a flourish and a smile.
Nemir looked out at the crowd before her, and took a steadying breath before taking a seat on the edge of the fountain and positioned the harp before her. She let the sound of the running water calm her as she began to play a jovial tune.
Come all ye rolling minstrels
And together, we will try
To rouse the spirit of the earth
And move the rolling sky
Those that dance, will start to dance
And those who don't will sway
In time to this our merry tune
That we play for you today
So, come all ye rolling minstrels
And together we will try
To rouse the spirit of the earth
And move the rolling sky
Walden joined in with his fiddle on the second verse and Finna clapped to the beat as she swayed and twirled. The group had drawn quite a large crowd of men in blue capes, leather uniforms emblazoned with an image of a swan upon their chests, and swords at their hips. Nemir found the group to be both impressive and intimidating as each man was broad shouldered and well muscled. She had no doubt each knew how to use the weapon they carried. When the song ended, they all applauded and cheered, several placed coins at their feet. Nemir acknowledged their applause by taking take a deep bow. As she scanned the crowd, her eyes caught a pair of young men around her age who interacted with the Swan Knights, but didn't share the same uniform. Instead of a swan, they bore the White Tree of Minas Tirith upon their chest and their green cloaks were finely made, trimmed with fur and silver embroidery. The younger looked to be around 20 with raven hair, light grey eyes, and refined facial features. The older also had dark hair and grey eyes, but he had a stronger jaw, more pronounced nose, and was slightly taller with facial stubble. They were noticeably handsome and shared enough similarities that she suspected they were brothers or at least cousins.
Her attention was in interrupted as a few men called out requests, and Walden obligated by started up a second song. She followed his lead, but her gaze kept going back to the brothers. The younger seemed to be enjoying himself, smiling and clapping along with other soldiers. The elder, however, appeared concerned with other matters as he watched the performance unfocused with a furrowed brow and tight mouth. It was as if he carry a mysterious weight upon his shoulders, and she couldn't help but think that we was too young to be weighed down by such responsibility during a celebration. Walden's song ended and he quickly transitioned into another. His bow flew across the strings with incredible speed and Nemir felt as if harp was not need at the time. Finna noticed this and motioned for her to join her as she enthusiastically moved with the music, and Nemir obliged letting the power of the music guide her as if she was back at the beach at home.
Caught up in the moment, she did something rather unexpected, even to herself. She made her way over the the tall, dark, stranger, grabbed his hands, and with a tug managed to pull him into the center of the circle with her. He was so surprised that he was unable to resist until it was too late, and he stood stunned as his companions cheered and encouraged him. Nemir flashed him her best smile before reaching for him again. She led him around in excited circles, but he obviously had dance training because he took the lead and they stepped and twirled in perfect unison. The whole experience was a rush and when the song ended her face was flushed from laughing and smiling. She felt justified when a grin had formed upon her partner's face as well and they turned to face the crowed with a curtsy and a bow. The men cheered, clapped, and hollered causing quite the racket and several called out "Boromir! Boromir!".
Her partner turned to face her and bowed, "That was an unexpectedly pleasant experience. Thank you Mistress Bard."
"The pleasure is all mine," she said with a smile and a small curty.
He returned back to his companions and the cheering continued as they welcomed him back. Walden stood on the edge of the fountain and yelled above the crowd, "Thank you for being a wonderful audience! Unfortunately our time here has ended, but if you want more you can find us at The Swan Maiden." The announcement caused the crowd to slowly moved its attentions elswhere.
Nemir was gathering her things when Walden presented her with a handful of silver coins, "What's this?" she asked.
"This is your portion of the earnings. Those soldiers were quite generous thanks to that brilliant stunt you pulled," he complemented.
"I'm not sure I can accept this. I don't feel like I did much work," she insisted.
"And that's why we love this profession, it never truly feels like work," added Finna, "Take it Nemir, we insist."
"If you insist," and she placed the money in her haversack. "Thank you for all you've done. I would be literally lost without you."
"Do you want to join us at The Swan Maiden? They made a wonderful stew?" offered Finna.
"Thank you for the invitation, but I think it is time for me to retire. I'm still recovering from the trip," said Nemir.
"Well don't be a stranger, and if you change your mind you know where to find us," said Walden as they gathered their items and started toward their next performance.
The streets had emptied and Nemir enjoyed her first moment of quiet since she had arrived in the city as she walked back toward her room. She wasn't used to the constant noise and being surrounded by herds of people. She felt rather drained by the day's activities. The common room was still serving a few customers when she entered The Dark Crab, but she made her way up the steps and into her room without getting her provided dinner. Once she reached her room, she undress, crashed onto her bed, and she was asleep in moments.
Well...she's finally made it to the big city! I hope you all enjoyed, and if so please review.
Songs used: 1st is "The Storm" by Blackmore's Night. 2nd is so old I don't think the author is known. 3rd is "Come all Ye" by Fairpoint Convention. I don't list all the lyrics because no one wants to read that, just so you know.
