❅ Two (Video)

[stonebird]

(There is a pile of completed garments sitting behind her; signs of how hard she has been working. Of course that evidence is unnecessary when her bandaged fingers come into view.)

Lord Curufin... (Being too familiar still doesn't feel natural. At least in public, she must be formal.) I have finished the fire retardant suits. If any require alterations, I will need specific measurements.

(But they should do if there are any further fires. Seven above, she hopes not!)

If there are any still suffering from burns, the house I share with Lord Elrond is another option besides the clinic. He is an expert Healer and there is much he can do even in situations that seem hopeless.

(Private to Maedhros, Maglor & Fingon.)

I have been working on tunics for each of you, though I apologize for them being delayed. I thought the suits of more import.

(/)

Comments

[so_dark_a_road]

[ He can certainly agree with that! ] I think this cave has some sort of air circulation system, which must be why we sometimes feels winds or breezes. But the fire we just had must have strained it, because I was smelling smoke for days.

And you are right, I think we need masks as well. The other mechanics and I made respirators before the fire ever happened, but the work was done quickly, and I think we should revamp the plans in the light of experience. Perhaps we could meet sometime and make some patterns?

[ He smiles back. ] Well, you too are a warrior -- not only of the needle but of the sword! -- and so I will not press you. Battle scars can be badges of pride.

[stonebird]

I would like to know how such a system works. I know of nothing like it on Westeros, though there were fans and things called...air conditioners...in Ruby City. I could keep the temperature as I liked no matter the season with the latter!

(Technology amazes her and her cheeks flush at his request.) I would be honored. I think filters in the masks would make them very useful. They can be made out of tightly woven material that catches...particles? I read about small pieces of smoke and dust that can float around the air.

(She smiles and inclines her head.) These will not scar badly, I promise.

[so_dark_a_road]

[ The engineer perks up. ] Air conditioners? -- what a very interesting concept! And I, too, would like to know how the gods ventilate this cave.

[ And he respects her intelligence. ] Filters, made of fabric, eh? That's sounds like it would work. You seem to have a feel for materials and their properties, and for how to shape them to fulfill a need. You are a natural at this! We are lucky to have you on the project.

[ He smiles back. ] I'll take your word for it, then -- that those fine, skilled fingers will heal on their own.

And speaking of Elrond, I am pleased he is moving in with you. Much as I liked having so many people living in one house, I fear it was a little too crowded and chaotic.

[stonebird]

They were interesting machines! I wish I had studied them closer; I fear I enjoyed them without much thought! (There had been plenty other happenings to occupy her mind there.)

It is necessary in the North to make garments that can withstand the deepest chill. If my father or my brothers had gone on a hunt and lost their way, a single night could have turned deadly. We used furs most often, but I believe I can sew almost anything. Strong thread, tightly woven should prove some protection if we cannot find actual filters.

(She glances down at her hands shyly.)

Him living with me is a blessing. I feel safer and I think I sleep better at night.

[so_dark_a_road]

If you wish to study machines, you may get your chance here. [ Smile. ]

And that explains your deftness with fabric constructions. I too lived in the north, in my world. We had to learn much about making warm clothing!

Elrond is not only a healer but a guardian by nature. He seems to subtly radiate peace when he wants to, or even when he's not really thinking about it. I don't know how he does it.

[stonebird]

It would be a good use of my time. (Besides sewing and embroidery. Her fingers will need a rest.)

Warm clothes are a necessity. I was taught from a young age to never allow myself to get wet or stay wet. Even a simple Cold can turn deadly. (Her mother had given birth to babes that had not survived for one reason or another. It isn't uncommon in Westeros, but sad nonetheless in a place that has such harsh conditions already.)

I used to have tea with him and his wife in Ruby City. I loved visiting them.

[so_dark_a_road]

You can come to the firehouse and I'll teach you how to drive the firetrucks and how to maintain them, if you are interested in either or both.

Those who taught you taught you well, then. One cannot be too careful of children in such a climate.

Elrond's wife was with him in Ruby City? It is thought that he loved her well. It is a pity she is not here. But I am glad that they were there for you. You obviously need a family. And here in Hadriel, we Elves are quite happy to adopt you.