[Mithadan]

Nardol probed his psyche like a Man probing a bad tooth and found that while it still ached, it lacked the sharp, eviscerating pain which he had borne previously. His mind was clearer than it had been in nigh unto an age, and he sampled some recent events and interactions with others and winced at the foul temper he had displayed. A single tear trickled from his eye to drop into the river. He turned to Bethberry and bowed gravely.

"It seems I am in your debt," he said with a clear voice. "I know not what manner of art you have used upon me but I thank you, though I am yet to understand the nature and extent of what you have done. I feel as if I do not truly know myself and must rebuild myself anew. But you have at least hauled me to my feet and set me upon my path."

He looked back to the road upon which the others were travelling. For a moment, he considered abandoning the quest. He had been cruel to his companions, if he could call them such, and even to Mithrandir, whom he felt did not deserve such disrespect. Nardol turned towards Bethberry who shook her head. "It would be faint-hearted to abandon those you have travelled with, even if they might deem themselves better off without you," she said with a smile. "Rest here tonight and rejoin them on the morrow. Then gain their respect with deeds and fair words, not apologies."

He bowed gravely to her...

[ January 20, 2003: Message edited by: Mithadan ]