[Airerûthiel]

Laitalathion could not help overhearing the young hobbit's conversation with her horse, not even noticing that he had won the round in the card game. He had a strange feeling that she was about to walk into a trap of some kind; although she looked innocent and naive, he had a feeling she could take care of herself. The two ruffians had recovered from their injuries, and the overheard conflict in the inn had been loud enough to reach the stables. He could not help thinking that the hobbit's renaming her horse might mean that she was thinking of going over to the side of evil.

Adanedhel's story had intrigued the Gondorian. He was always curious to hear about the lives of others, perhaps because he had been protecting his own identity for so long. But there was something about his companion that Laitalathion still could not work out - it was almost like trying to solve a very difficult riddle when the answer was staring you in the face.

The half-Elf dealt out the cards once more, considering whether or not to leave this inn. The company and ale were both good, but he had a sense that he had now outworn his welcome. He had to find the girl from his dream, she who bore his mother's eyes and resembled Pennrod of Gondor. And yet...if adventure had found Maikadurion in this inn, perhaps it would be wise to stay a little longer.

Whatever choice Laitalathion made, he knew he would be forced to make it soon. Rohan was the place where he was to settle, he knew that deep inside. But before he could look to the future, he must first unearth his past.