[*Varda*]

Poppy looked startled as Nardol ran out to join the battle. The silent elf had changed much over the last day or two, and she was still finding it hard not to be surprised.

But should she go, or stay? She had her small dagger, but that would be no use against the orcs, and surely one so small as her could do little more than stab them in the knee. No, she would be more of a hindrance than a help. Quietly she stood in the Great Hall, the silence almost suffocating her, with only her lantern to hold on to. Where was everyone else? If something went wrong now, what would she do? Poppy’s head swam, and she prayed she wouldn’t be left alone for too late.

Her prayers seemed answered when she heard quiet footsteps on the cold floor and saw Menelduliniel and Estelarion entering the hall, looking over at her. Poppy breathed a sigh of relief, and walked over to them.

“What is happening outside? Is everything alright?” she said breathlessly, looking from one elf to the next. “And what are we to do now we are inside, and they are out there?”