[Mithalwen]

Erenor listened to the Dunedain's request and it occured to her that taking a lead in this foolhardy expedition might provide a small chance of surviving the original folly of the retreat to the mountains. For all the king's praise of their loyalty she felt as much hostage of the Dunedain as she had of of the orcs. And at least the yrch had been considerate enough to render them oblivious and had kept them in the open air - and had demonstrated a concern for their survival. Strange indeed were the fortunes of the world. In fact she wondered if this party was intended to fail.. Mellonar the Perpetually Obstructive would be only too happy to relate how they had nobly given their lives in the cause... and was it coincidence that all the dunedain who had associated with the emissaries were together.


The darkness was opressive but the further they went the closer they would be to the far side .. a west gate would be perhaps their only chance of escape, a small group might be able to make their way unobserved by the enemy south through Lindon to the Havens. There alone did she believe they would find succour. The king would never listen. Disobedience might be their only hope - but for the time being she would keep her own counsel.

The elf woman met the Dunadan's gaze steadily though she stood some inches shorter, and at last, she answered, " Lieutenant Belegorn, I am willing to do as you ask, and maybe Lord Ereglin will also. We seek food and if there be any, chances are we will find other beings who regard it as their larder. For that reason it may be wise that we go a little ahead. If you wish one of your soldiers to come with us, I suggest it should be Faerim, who has the soft footedness of youth and is used to our ways" .... she gave a half smile, well aware that it was not necessarily a skill that would be appreciated by all his kindred. "The Lady Betheril does not bear arms so it may be safer for her to lend her skills to the rearguard, for we my not explore all the small side tunnels that may give passage to some creatures, though not elves and men. Nevertheless the choice is hers."

Waiting for the others to respond, she glanced into the tunnel beyond, hand on her sword hilt. So used had she become to wearing her mail and sword that walking armed and armoured felt as natural to her as her own skin. she looked at the boy. I wonder if he can learn the osanne she thought.