[littlemanpoet]

Raefindan woke. The sun was just above the horizon. Looking around, he saw that none of the others had woken yet. There was Ravion and Erundil, and Aeron. And Gwyllion.

Mellonin was not with them.

Raefindan felt the bile rise to his throat. He wanted to yell at the top of his lungs, accusing the swamp elf of cold hearted lies. He found himself on his feet, his fists curled tightly. He was holding his breath. He exhaled, and rested his hands on his knees.

He looked up again. Had that been laughter? Or just a beast snuffling in the distance? He was not sure.

His breath made vapor. He clapped himself with his arms to stay warm. Gond nickered. Jorje lifted his head, perked an ear, and whined. The sounds woke Ravion.

"Good morning, Ravion."

"To you as well."

"Well, not so good, really."

Ravion's head came up and he squinted at Raefindan, waiting.

"No Mellonin."

Ravion's eyes closed and he took in breath as if he had received a physical blow.

"The lying, treacherous elf," Ravion murmured.

"Speak not too loudly or you may have an arrow in your tongue."

Ravion humphed. "I know it only too well." He stood and woke Erundil while Raefindan tapped Aeron on the shoulder.

Soon all were awake and talking, except for Gwyllion. Aeron was studying her. Raefindan could imagine Aeron's fear that she might never wake up.

"Aeron, try and wake her."