“<b>Indeed,” Allassiel chimed in, adding to Lotharn's assessment. “One should never underestimate the abilities of a hobbit – or anyone, for that matter, simply on basis of their appearance. I have witnessed many things in my long years; those that appeared enfeebled defend their loved ones, women no bigger than children take up broadswords and wield them, men who seem moments from their final rest make amazing recoveries.” She paused, accepting a goblet passed to her by one of Ellawynne's servants, and sipped the contents before continuing. “And it is not just men, or elf, hobbit or dwarf. You hail from the land of horses. Do you not see, every day, the wild steeds that roam your lands? Are you not witness to all they can accomplish in their herds?” <br/>
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Ellawynne pursed her lips, scowling at Allassiel as she pondered the words. It was clear she didn't wish to give the hiril an inch, nor admit that she was right. Yet, despite everything, she was nothing if not fair and at last she nodded. “I admit there is truth to your words. I've lived my whole life here. It's not always easy, or comfortable. I've seen things which have left me pondering for days after and --”</b><br/><br/>“<b>You called for my presence?”</b><br/><br/><b>Ellawynne turned away from her company to the young man whose honeyed voice had interrupted her, as did the rest of the gathering. “Your arrival is flawlessy timed, as always, Horn.”</b><br/><br/><b>The young man grinned and bowed at the barbed comment. Tall, as most of the men in the camp, this one was finely built. A pair of mischievous green eyes peered out from shaggy bangs of spun gold, and his grin revealed a dimple that would have made most maidens proud. “I arrived exactly as soon as I was called for, m'lady. And from the looks of thing, precisely when needed. We have visitors?” He turned to study the group, his eyes lingering on each face.</b><br/><br/><b>His grin widened at the sight of the hobbits. “What manner of folk are these?” he asked, before moving on to Pegawen. Again he paused and tilted his head to consider her. “You are a bard as well?”</b><br/><br/>“<b>I play some, yes,” she admitted with a shrug. “Harp, mostly, though I know the feel of a lute in my hands.”</b><br/><br/>“<b>Wonderful! I shall have to hear what songs and tales you know! Perhaps after the --”</b><br/><br/><b>Ellawynne rolled her eyes and cleared her throat. “The visitors aren't here for your entertainment, Horn. They are here to treat with us regarding passage through the plains. I sent for you, that you may impress them with your musical skills. The small ones,” she motioned to the hobbits, “are of a people that enjoy song and tale.”</b><br/><br/><b>Horn's grin grew wider at the words. “A good people then! And I would be most honored to regale your company with a tale.” He stepped aside, allowing the servants to finish setting the table and headed towards the head, where Ellawynne sat with Allassiel and Thorgan. “Now, what tale would you most like me to share with them, m'lady?” </b>