[Mithadan]

Mithadan watched the hostage transfer take place and smiled at the brief struggle in Child's boat. All other eyes were fixed on the Ringbearer as the sailors made ready to bring the second boat on deck. Mithadan watched briefly as Child and Rose began to paddle towards the black ship. Then he moved away from the side and began shouting orders loudly, calling the sailors away from the rail. He seized a rope as the Ringbearer's boat was drawn up and awaited Frodo and Sam's arrival. As if he were chilled by the wind, he drew his cloak tightly around him and again muttered under his breath. None noted that his chest seemed to grow more bulky under his shirt.

As the Ringbearer and his companion stepped from the boat, he drew his sword. Cutting a length of rope, he ordered the two bound together with a line attached to the waist of each. He took the end of the rope and tugged the Hobbits closer to him. "Hello Frodo, hello Sam," he said. "Traitor," Sam replied. Mithadan backhanded Sam across his face.