Taurion grew uncharacteristically somber as they left Mirkwood. Although Mirkwood was perilous, he always felt a false sense of security under the trees. Now that they were out in the open, he felt particularly unprotected.
The stern nature of Findereg's conversation with Thaurbar, though he could not hear it, was obviously not a light exchange. Taurion saw the faces both held as they spoke, though he was farther back. He wondered what new dangers could be found in this land since last he ventured out from under the leaves of Mirkwood.
Absorbed in thought, Taurion nearly forgot all about Youlielle sitting right behind him. Taurion had the thought to approach the leaders in the hopes of seeing what they were discussing. When he urged Carnil forward, however, he was suddenly reminded of Youlielle when she clenched his stomach a little tighter and gave a little jerk of surprise. Taurion quickly slowed Carnil down again. He had obviously not been the only one in his own world. Youlielle had not been paying much attention to Carnil's motion either.
"I apologize, my lady," Taurion said over his shoulder.
"It is no trouble, Lord," came Youlielle's reply, "If you wish to move up, you may."
"I believe that we should stay where we are," Taurion said.
Although it was not apparent by his nature, Taurion believed strongly in signs. This little mishap, he believed, was a sign that he should not overstep his bounds or he could lose more than just his life.
They rode on, Taurion still feeling a bit apprehensive...
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"I think we dream so we don't have to be apart so long. If we're in each others dreams, we can be together all the time." - Hobbes of Calvin and Hobbes
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