[Nurumaiel]

Day had slowly sunk into night at The White Horse, and tension was growing around the table of the Elf, men of Rohan, and Rangers. Talômi shot daggers at Eohsecg with his eyes whenever the young man glanced at Rie or Talômi himself. Nurumaiel had retreated to the counter to get a drink, whispering in joking voice to Firramer that she wasn't used to mortal's foolish behavior, but her eyes showed some concern. Firramer himself was trying to think of something to say to get Eohsecg out of the trouble he was in. Talômi was occupying himself with glaring at Eohsecg, and Rie was blushing and feeling very uncomfortable.

"I'm ordering a room for the night," said Eohsecg hesitantly. He ventured to look at Talômi, who glared back furiously. "I'll see you all in the morning, and tommorrow I would like to start afresh with Talômi." He retreated hastily to the counter to order his room.

"Rie, why don't you go to Nuru and get a room?" Firramer asked kindly. "I'm sure she wouldn't mind sharing a room with you. Talômi and I can share one. Eohsecg just needs to have some time to himself. He's a bit confused." Firramer waited until Rie had departed with Nuru, and Eohsecg was safely gone, then he looked at Talômi and spoke gently. "Why don't you tell me all about it? I've often been told I'm a good listener and can be a great comfort to those who are confused or upset. I understand how you must feel, but I also understand Eohsecg... perfectly." A look of pain passed over his face, but it disappeared so quickly that Talômi wasn't sure he had actually seen it. "I won't laugh," said Firramer seriously, "and I'll do my best to listen patiently to you and straighten things out a little tomorrow without interfering too much."