Leave of Absence

Tindir made his way towards the Last Homely House with fast paced steps. Holding a leather folder underarm, he seemed thoughtful and a serious expression was visible on his face. He was to bring rather unpleasant news to Veryacano, for Tindir was the Hammer Lord’s second in command and it was his responsibility to organize the mustering of troops. His firm steps on white marble echoed around the halls of Elrond as he made his way toward Hammer Lord’s chambers. Tindir reached forward to knock on the wooden door but it opened before he could and Veryacano appeared, clad in his Hammer uniform and red gold shoulderguards.

 

‘‘Lord Veryacano.’’

 

‘‘Lord Tindir, greetings. What news?’’

 

‘‘Unfortunately the news are not of the sort you will enjoy, Lord.’’ Tindir said. Veryacano folded his arms defensively and gestured him to continue.

 

‘‘The troops lord… Most of them are still on leave outside the valley. Orders were dispatched by bird and some by riders. But we have not received any reply or news.’’ Tindir paused a moment as Veryacano stared at him.  ‘‘We don’t even know if the troops have received the orders yet. So… err…’’

 

‘‘We don’t know if they are coming or not.’’ Veryacano completed his sentence for him.

 

Tindir nodded slowly. ‘‘Shall we send out new orders lord? Perhaps postpone the last orders?’’

 

Putting a hand on his chin, Veryacano grimaced. ‘‘Any news from the Galadhrim?’’ he whispered.

 

‘‘Concerning reports from Southern Mirkwood Lord.’’ Tindir opened the leather folder and showed one particular message to Veryacano, written on a small parchement. ‘‘Countless campfires were seen, presumed to be an attack against the Galadhrim.’’

 

Veryacano bent his lips, taking a brief look at the message.

 

‘‘Lord, there also appears to be rumors of Nazgul, riding a fell beast…’’ Tindir paused for a moment, unsure. ‘‘But we do not know if this is true.’’ He felt the need to add.

 

Suddenly changing the subject, Veryacano said in a louder voice, ‘‘Last orders were to make preparations and stay in the valley.’’ After a pause he continued, ‘‘I believe you are one of the very few that understand the gravity of the situation here. The threat against the Golden Wood is something the Hammer cannot respond to. At least that is what Lord Anglachelm commands.’’

 

Veryacano glanced at Tindir and certainty was in his eyes now. ‘‘The orders will not be changed.’’ He proclaimed. ‘‘They shall be carried out as they are. Preparations are necessary.’’

 

‘‘But the march is delayed, isn’t it Lord?’’ Tindir asked, shrugging.

 

‘‘Not for us.’’ Veryacano’s face hinted a smile.

 

‘‘I think it’s about time we took some leave of absence for ourselves Lord Tindir. Don’t you think so?’’ Veryacano smiled widely.

 

Tindir immediately grasped what Hammer Lord was suggesting. ‘‘Most certainly Lord, I could use some time off.’’ He chuckled.

 

‘‘Can you think of a vacation spot?’’ Veryacano asked with a wide grin.

 

‘‘Hmm.. east. Yes, east would be a nice change.’’ Tindir responded, feigning thought.

 

‘‘Then we'll set out as soon as we can.’’ Veryacano said to Tindir, patting him on the shoulder as he took off. His back turned to Tindir, he paused after taking a few steps and added with a raised finger: ‘‘Remember to leave your uniform behind Lord Tindir.’’