Chapter XIV

Norui 4th 3002 T.A

The first thing Eliel noticed was the stench of alcohol overpowering her then it changed to the rowdy chatter going on in all sorts of directions. Only a few patrons had noticed her but she just slipped unnoticed towards who she assumed was the innkeeper behind the bar. She was quite a busty old woman who paid no attention upon herself. "Sorry, if you have come looking for job – none available" declared the woman cleaning out mugs.

"Ah not looking for work, just a bed and some food" She replied in a hopeful tone. 'Everyone in this city are full of assumptions' she thought to herself. "Ah well lass you've come to the right place. Anything in particular?" Eliel shook her head "Right. Ysolda. Food for and don't forget drinks this time" she ordered a young girl around "So that'll be 10 gold for the room and five for the food." Eliel passed her the coins and she moved onto another customer.

The inn was dark and cozy in a homely sort of way but with the distinct smell of smoke pipes, relatively popular from what she could see and the general colour scheme was somewhat brown and orange. Maybe it would not hurt to stay a couple more nights, just to be well rested. Her inner debate lasted until she had got handed her food by the young waitress, Ysolda. Her plate was filled with a pie and several portions of bread as well as cheese and an apple on the side.

She had demolished the food and even asked for a second serving, saving both apples for Daeroch. After dinner Eliel was shown her room where she made herself comfortable and she pulled out her journal that she decided to bring to take note on her travels.

Finally arrived in Minas Tirith, midafternoon.

Brought dried morning flower, corn flower and juniper tea. Must try it out.

Met a man called Wilhelm. Sort of knew about apothecary. Pointed out where I could stay.

Found an inn called The Four Shields.

Debating whether I should buy supplies tomorrow and leave morn after next or buy them tomorrow and leave as well.

She finished with the date and put it away then pulled out one of her mother's books to help pass more time. Before she went to sleep she made sure the door was secure and hoped there wasn't any unwanted visits during the night.

Eliel woke up the next morning tired from not being able to sleep and her body aching from the metal springs that seemed to protrude through the thin mattress. She thought now might be the time to test out that tea to see if it was worth it. Eliel walked over towards the fire place and filled the kettle with water, while waiting for it to be boiled she started to pack up her belongings. How she was feeling in right now decided that she was not staying again in this so called fine establishment.

The water had boiled and she mixed the dried leaves with the water and waited for it to be cooled down before taking a sip. The taste was peculiar but something she could handle, and after she had finished it all and gathered her things her muscles were not as sore and she felt ready to start her day.

Eliel made her way down to the main area where she heard a familiar voice chatting away. "Hilde. Fresh bread as you requested."

"Wilhelm you wonderful boy, tell your parents I appreciate it. 15 gold as usual?"

"Yes thank you." He was given the gold and then noticed Eliel standing behind him waiting to do business with the proprietor. "Morning half elf." She looked offended but realized he had nothing else to call her by. "Just telling you I am finished with my room"

"Right. Anything else I can get you, breakfast perhaps?" Hilde replied

"Just a few more apples if you've got any?" Hilde nodded and handed her four apples. Wilhelm was waiting for her to stop talking business.

"Can I help you?" There was something about this man that annoyed her

"Do you like apples or something?"

"For my horse." Eliel stated as she made her way towards Daeroch. She untied him and fed him an apple.

"Are you going?" he stood at the door

"Hopefully soon yes. I was wondering if I could buy some more of that tea you sold me yesterday, before I leave." She asked and fed the horse another apple and patted him and prepared him for the day.

He smiled "Sure, follow me" Eliel followed him out the stable and through the alleyway and up towards his parent's stall. "Wait here" he told her as he walked inside. He came back out with a pouch twice the size as the one she brought yesterday and a slice of bread. "Take it, free of charge." He offered

Eliel didn't deny the offer and thanked him. "Where are you going anyway? You seemed well prepared."

"Traveling up north. You ask a lot of questions." She was irritated but not enough to snap at him.

"Sorry, it's just that you are a very intriguing woman and there is something about you that I find mesmerizing."

Eliel had stared at him like he was a fool "I am not really. Nor am I well prepared, I need some food before I start my journey. Something that will last me a while."

He walked with her and he let her into the secrets of the market. Who had the most quality items and delicious food. She had finally spent a decent amount of coin and decided that it was time to go.

They had walked back to the main gate around mid-morning "So I just go out the north gate and follow Anduin?" She asked jumping onto Daeroch's back and securing her bags and taking the stone out and placing it into her surcoat. "Basically, the Great River will take you as far north as you want."

"Thank you Wilhelm" She smiled

"My pleasure..." he paused

"Eliel" he grinned finally getting his answer.

"Next time you pass through Minas Tirith, Eliel, do not hesitate to visit." She nodded and cued Daeroch to start a gallop towards the north gate, where she would officially start her adventure.