[Imladris]

Lira pondered the past...the doings of her short life. She remembered Esgallhugwen and she smiled, sadly for she could feel the darkness that still clung to the elf maiden. Her hand slipped down to the silver dagger at her side and she fondled it gently. Peering from the cellar, she could see that Esgallhugwen had departed, more than likely to the inn. As the cook's new assistant, she would not be needed until a few hours before dinner.

Rising, Lira left her realm of wine and quickly glided to the Inn. Entering the common room, she sought her...the beautiful Esgallhugwen. Seeing her seated at a corner, she strode towards her, and, leaning on the table, said, "Mellon. You are alone -- again." A smiled curved about her lips. "I am working in the wine cellar. Would you wish to accompany me? We can laugh and be as merry as the elves of Rivendell before the shadow came." The smile faltered, but instantly reassurted itself. She held out her hand.

Esgallhugwen put her hand in Lira's and rose. "Thank you, Mellon. I was wondering if you would care for my company." She flashed a smile and Lira's spirit soared. Long had it been since a smile lit her elven face, since a smile had driven away the shadows of sorrow and darkness.

Together the two elves made their way towards the cellar, Lira laughing merrily, Esgallhugwen smiling serenely. Holding a bottle and putting a label upon it, Lira turned and said, "Tell me, Esgallhugwen, of your early life...before the threat of the Shadow."