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While gazing at the starlight, Éomeléo was concerned at how strangely Valesseka was behaving. She kept sneaking glances at him with a mad glint in her eye. He didn't think it was her run-in with the spider that was causing her this anxiety. No, it was something else, something less tangible.
He realised it was probably his own presence. After all, she kept sneaking off in the morning to avoid him. This race might be making her paranoid of human-contact. A shame; poor girl, he thought. At least I'm holding up quite well.
Quite well? It hit him: he was actually exceedingly happy. "I say, Valesseka, I think I don't want to ever go back to Gondor."
What was he leaving? Little but restrictions and the lack of intimacy. He had been raised by servants, not a loving family. Everyone envied his perceived riches but what really makes a rich man? A plethora of fine clothes and a seat at every banquet? Or freedom and your own responsibilities? Valesseka stared at him, not quite understanding how Éomeléo could be so naïve; but Éomeléo did not take heed, and began formulating daring plans and schemes. Thought of his wealth in Gondor had him excited again.
"Valesseka" said Éomeléo, "if you could have anything in the world, what would it be?"
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