[Mithadan]

Nardol stood facing away from the Castle, looking out towards the dark surrounding its walls. Beside him stood the remaining shades, standing guard as they had done for so many centuries. But from somewhere within him, Nardol knew that this would be their last night at the Castle.

He listened to Gandalf speak with Alearindu and frowned when he heard that it would likely be six days before assistance arrived. The Elf could hear Orcs scuttling about in the woods outside the walls, and if they were allowed to do so, he knew they would bring others. Sheathing his sword, he took up his bow and, again, leapt up on the wall. The only way to force the Orcs to keep their distance would be to strike them quickly now. He whistled softly into the wind and, after a moment, heard the sound of hoofs beating upon the road. Then he and Rustal went hunting...

He returned nearly two hours later, ridng upon his horse. His quiver was empty, but he was satisfied that there were no Orcs within a mile or more of the Castle. The shades were still standing in the courtyard as he entered, but they seemed less substantial now, as if they were fading before the coming day. To his surprise, Gandalf stood by the gate.

"We need not concern ourselves about Orcs this evening," said the Elf. "And likely not tomorrow either, though undoubtedly they will return in the days to come." The wizard nodded without speaking. He seemed to be measuring the Elf with his eyes. Then he nodded again.

"You have not chosen your reward yet," said Gandalf. "Will you not take some of Elrond's gold?"

"No," answered Nardol. "Return it to him. He will have need of it."

"And you will not?" asked Gandalf. The Elf looked out to the West, then turned back to the wizard. "I do not think so," he said softly. Gandalf nodded, with a hint of a smile.

"Will you not take aught from the Castle then?" continued Mithrandir. Nardol thought for a moment, then entered the Castle. He returned several minutes later with Kenelm. It was nearly sunrise and a faint glow appeared in the sky to the east. Nardol looked to Maladil's son, then extended his hands. Kenelm silently passed the stringless harp to the Elf. "I will return it to you," said Nardol. Kenelm nodded, then faded away...