[The X Phial]

The party disembarked in Gondor, their task over but somehow reluctant to split into their separate ways. The only one who seemed anxious to get home and settle something was Calimir, but he checked his desire long enough to ride back to Minas Tirith with the group. Wren once again offered them lodgings, and for a while they stayed together there. Bregand spent a long time in the libraries with a special dispensation from the King. He dragged himself away, however, long enough to spend his evenings walking in the streets or the garden with Carmalita.

One night they talked about the future and whether Evendim needed a nurse or Bree needed a scholar. This talk brought thoughts of home into the forefront for Bregand, and, although he loved Minas Tirith and the knowledge accumulated there, he felt a tug on his heart to be away north again. He could also see that Carmalita was missing Crystal. They rode north together a little while later, accompanied by some of their companions and leaving the others with promises of correspondence to come.

Bregand was full of plans. Wherever they settled, he would need students. It made sense for him to build his career for a while and then think about providing for the family he now knew he wanted. He hoped Carmalita would be willing to wait for him and knew that if she didn't he would never love another. As they left the walls of Minas Tirith far behind them and plunged northwards again, Bregand reflected on all that had happened since he had last seen his home. He had found love and lost friends. He had fought and sung, led and followed, learned and taught. He knew now that whatever lay ahead of him, he would not meet it as a child, but as a man.

[ June 25, 2003: Message edited by: The X Phial ]