[Bêthberry]

The elven melody hung in the air, echoing almost in rhythm with the bowing of cedar branches in the slight breeze. Bethberry smiled at the three--Estelarion, Hinura, Menelduliniel--for their song had indeed made her feel better, despite her feverishness.

She sipped the remainder of her tea slowly,unable to eat, as Holly came over to her.

"You are in no fit state to accompany us," said the hobbit.

Bethberry nodded. "You have the list of plants I gave you? You know what to look for?"

Holly nodded. "It is packed in amongst my drawings. I won't forget. Thank you for the list. It will help my own healing skills."

"Will you stay here? Can I get you a blanket? I don't like the idea of leaving you alone"

"I'll stay by the fire tonight. Wyrd will watch over me. In early morn, I will return to Sarn Ford. YOu need not worry about me. Wyrd will watch over me tonight and accompany me tomorrow. I will be fine. 'Tis you who must take care, Holly. And Bird. And the others. Watch over Nardol also and be prepared to give him civility at least instead of a sharp tongue."

Holly nodded.

"And one last thing, Holly. The wands which Gandalf distributed. Give mine to Nardol, please. I have not seen him, nor has he spoken to me since the healing ritual, but would like him to have them."

Holly looked as if she would question the request, but a raised eyebrow from Bethberry persuaded her to stop. She wrapped an extra blanket around the Old Forest healer, instead.

"Good-bye. Good luck," replied Bethberry, turning to lay down by the fire and closing her eyes. Out of the woods, without a call, Wyrd flew down to stand beside her. Tomorrow she would start a different path.

[ February 03, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[ February 03, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]