[VanimaEdhel]

Menelduliniel and Estelarion arose and quickly packed up their equipment, assuming that they would soon depart.

Menelduliniel, ever the prattler, immediately began chattering away.

"Does anyone know when we will reach the Castle, or what will happen to us once we get there?" Andreth asked Holly.

Estelarion turned to Menelduliniel and motioned her to be quiet. Menelduliniel began to speak again, but Estelarion gave her a stern glance. Finally, he turned to Holly.

"And, with such wounded as we have," he said, gesturing towards where Volondil was bedded, but speaking softly enough so that Volondil would not hear him, "Is it wise to start out again? For we are an easy target."

Menelduliniel chimed in, "I suppose we could leave some behind to care for the wounded. Those that are left could try to make for the nearest settlement and find aid."

"Nay," Holly said, "That would not be wise. Without a full party, we would be more likely to fail. And those that remained would be subject to further attack and danger."

"She speaks true," Estelarion said, resignedly, "We are much more likely to survive if we continue on together. But Andreth poses good questions: when will we reach the Castle and what will we do when we get here. I am still not completely sure I understand exactly what we are to do once we get here."

"And what are these?" Menelduliniel said, pointing to the rods she still carried, "For they do not seem to be formidable weapons. And I have heard of no witchcraft that requires these. Although, I am not at all skilled in the ways of witchcraft and the like...I have heard quite a bit though..."

Estelarion, while Menelduliniel spoke, had fetched both of them a small breakfast. She took the food greatfully, hesitantly putting her source of entertainment, the rods, down on the ground where she sat and awaited their questions to be answered...

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: VanimaEdhel ]