"Thou needs not to apologise," replied Fáinu, "there is nothing thou couldst have done to stop the evil things of that day. No one knew the dragon would come, no one knew what horror would be wrought. You are blameless." He meant the words, never had he blamed Cree for anything that happened that day, only himself... and the dragon.
Fáinu looked at Avalon the crow and smiled. The crow seemed content with itself and crowed happily. Some Hobits began to sing songs and dance, it was their custom and they all seemed happy. This was a complete contrast to the feeling that surrounded Cree and Fáinu. They had once again dug up their old memories and it had brought grief.
"Cree, you should be glad," said Fáinu, "That we both have our lives. To me, that says that we yet have something to do in this world, before the end of ends... before we must leave these shores. I am more delighted to see thee than perhaps it seems. For too long now have I wandered alone, seeking fore something that calls me."
He looked down at his mug and thought for a while. Cree was silent and seemed to be contemplating all he had said.
What will happen? Will you lead her to death? For thou knows what will happen if she follows you... fire, torment and death of a most unpleasant sort.
I cannot leave here to die a lone. She may have her crow, but I perceive that if I leave her alone, then she will fade in loneliness. And that may be worse.
Then you would gladly lead her to such an end? Thou art a fool!
Maybe, it is her will, and if she says she will follow me to death... then that perhaps is our fate.
"All choices seem ill," he mumbled under his breath, he knew she heard him, "Art thou sure? Cree, will you willingly follow me into peril? For that is all I see in my future, Elrond told me of it. That I am only to bring those I love to anguish... Do you wish for that fate? Am I, a mere elf of Rivendell, worth such hurt? Do you surly wish for such a fate? For I know that I do not and I know I cannot avoid it. But if you wish to come with me, I will not stop you... I merely warn you of what maybe to come."
|