'Well met, Ranger Alearindu.' came the quiet voice of Volondil, as he smiled up at her. 'I am sure this good horse will bear his burden well. Though I must say I would rather walk at his side or ask that he bear me on his back, if he would, than be dragged behind as an invalid.' He sighed and put his hand gingerly against his side with a light pressure to ease the ache of his wound.
He raised himself up as well as the straps of the would allow him. 'Tell me, Ranger, since we are to be close travelling companions, what reason have you of being on this journey with the wizard, Gandalf. Have you been sent to lend your aid to them, or does something other cause you to travel to Tharbad?' He awaited her answer, watching her closely as she chose her words.
From the corner of his eye, he noted Holly as she walked over to the other female Hobbit, Poppy. She was helping her carry the bag of gold to where the girl, Andreth, held her horse in readiness. As they walked, Holly leaned in close to Poppy, speaking close to her ear, while Poppy nodded her head in seeming agreement.
Once at the horse, Holly helped the other Hobbit up. Then tying the neck of the sack securely, she handed it up to Poppy, who grasped it firmly in her hands. 'Best keep good hold of that.' he heard, as she handed up the gold. 'I'll see you tonight when we make camp.' she said. He saw Holly wave and walk back to Peri and Olo, a smile on her face.
'Now what is she up to?' he thought to himself. Another voice broke in upon his thoughts. 'I'm sorry!' he said to Alearindu, a small frown on his face. 'My thoughts were elsewhere for the moment. Tell me again - what were you saying?'
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Eldest, that’s what I am . . . I knew the dark under the stars when it was fearless - before the Dark Lord came from Outside.
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