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Diary 8 - Leaving the shadow behind



Slowly, things are returning to normal. The cloud has lifted from my mind, and now I must heal my body also. When I heard the elves of Rivendell may be able to help, it was an easy choice to begin this journey. We are nearly there as I write this. Saeldith says she can help me find the hidden valley.

Saeldith. She has been a true bastion of strength for me. She says she would give up all her status and posessions for me. It has always been that I followed her, it did not occur to me she might do the same. I am thankful to have found such a devoted wife. Never did I think a woman would find a softness within me and bring it out in such a way. She believed I was a good man, and so I became one out of the shadowy exile I once was.

Yet, I am restless. It is time to venture out from Bree. Saeldith and I have agreed to begin preparations for the long journey south towards our home. Towards Gondor. Many people travel through Bree and I have heard of many dangers in the wilds. I am not yet strong enough after my imprisonment to attempt this, but I hope it to be soon.

In fact, danger seems to be spreading so rapidly. Bree has been greatly sheltered. I am no longer fearful since my return, but I am concerned about all those who call themselves free. Many underestimate the strength of the Dark Lord, that I have seen firsthand. I do not think my people in Gondor will be able to hold Him back for long. I must return to those lands and do what I can to aid them. I know I am just one man, but I cannot sit idly and wait for the darkness to reach the lands that saved me.

D