The white waters of the Snowbourn run swiftly at the foot of the walled hill, and a shallow ford crosses the stream where the great West Road traverses it. Beyond the ford, a wide rutted track weaves past lines of great grassy mounds on either side – the barrows of kings, thick with white flowers – up to the gates where many spearmen stand guard.
Some of you have been here before, for others, this is your first glimpse of the Rohan's gleaming capital city. It is a sight that stirs all hearts alike.
You recall the day the messenger from the king rode to your home. You can remember the sealed letter signed by King Thengel himself. In your mind, you recall the words:
"...for your great acts of valour in the service of our people, King Thengel thanks you and bids you come and lend your service once again. Great is our need in times such as these for men and women of courage on honor to aid our people in the defense of our land."
The letter had gone on say how Thengel was looking for men and women of the Mark who had demonstrated bravery and skill beyond the norm. He wished to honor a handful of such heroes and task them, if they should be willing, with a task of some importance.
Preparations had been made and farewells had been said as the day approached. Now finally you were here, at the gates of Edoras on a crisp day late in February in the year 2960. The Capital seems to be in a state of excitement with groups of armed men and women marching with purpose here and there about the city, while other groups regularly seem to be headed off eastward.
Introducing yourself and presenting your summons from the king, the guards had looked at you with a combination of suspicion and awe as if judging to see if you measured up to the honor of the king's regard. After a brief delay, you had been escorted upward toward the top of the hill by means of a winding road, lined by various wooden buildings, some homes, others businesses and shops, until finally you arrived at a group of small but well furnished rooms one for the men and one for the women. Your horse was taken away to be cared for in the king's stables.
"Wait here until summoned to meet with the Reeve. He speaks on behalf of the King when his Lordship is away. Please relax yourself while you wait. Rest if you so desire. Food will be served and you may wash away the dirt from the road. Feel free to explore the city, but be ready to be summoned ere nightfall," he says and then leaves you with a bow.
You have a few hours left until sundown. You cannot help to notice others who like you seem to have been summoned by the king. Several are now filling the bunks around you. Perhaps you will take advantage of this time to talk with some of the others or explore the city and see what is going on.