[Mithadan]

Taking note of the Elf's venomous glare, Halfred stepped forward hurriedly. "Begging your pardon ma'am," he said. "But he's pretty much as we found him save for the eye which was not our doing. Some lad tossed an apple at him as we drove him here on a cart."

Piosenniel looked at Mithadan for confirmation. He scowled a bit at the Shirriff, but said, "While I would not have complained if my treatment was a bit more courteous and gentle, what the Shirriff says is true."

As he spoke, the formerly comedic deputy entered carrying Mithadan's pack and belt, along with his weapons. He stared openly at Piosenniel as he handed them over. Mithadan hurriedly checked the contents then glanced down at the awe-struck deputy. "If this is either Daisy Sandybanks or Pearl Took, then I am Beren," he said with a toothy smile. The deputy laughed weakly, then bowed to Piosenniel as the two exited the Lockholes.

Outside, Mithadan held her close and leaned his head against hers. "I've missed you, my love," he said softly. "And you two also," he added with a laugh as a kick rippled through Piosenniel's belly. The Elf's eyes sparkled, then she smiled impishly.

"So the great warrior was undone by some Halflings and an apple then?" she teased. Mithadan laughed. "My tale is a bit longer than that, but I think that you recall just how formidable these Halflings can be."

Then his mouth dropped open as he saw Piosenniel's steed. "You rode over on that?" he asked. She smirked at his comment. "We Elves are a bit more...durable that women of your kind during pregnancy," she said. She took the reins from Hob and intoduced the Hobbit to Mithadan. Then she suggested that Hob might be more comfortable riding with the Man...