Lósengriol

What could the two nissi have been talking about with such animation and depth for so long, as if picking up a conversation set down only yesterday?

It is not too cold for two brave Noldor to sit on the grass in the Vale and enjoy a bit of afternoon sun as they contemplate what their newly joined future may hold.

To Arradril's utter shock, Branalph is done with the charade, and kneels to beg her hand in marriage. Out come the betrothal rings carefully smithed by Glorfingwë, and in front of all the crafters of the Forges, a troth is plighted.

The last tale of the evening was given by Melumatyar, in which one of the Eagles of Manwë Súlimo guards the hröa of a slain warrior and explains to a naive inquirer wherefore such a mighty bird would perform such a duty.

Guests stream in to share tales, both happy and sad; to sing songs; to recite poems; and above all, to listen to one another's memories. Lady Manadhlaer did a discreet bit of baking so that there would be sweets as well as wine for the turn of firith into rhîw.

Lord Glinthir leads a company of Elves from Imladris -- Melumatyar carrying healing supplies, and Hamadmachor carrying wool cloth and furs, with Olriandis and Arradril to scout the northern pass -- to resupply Vindurhal. Ulvoin, the master of the small chambers beneath the outpost (oddly well stocked with reading material and a cat, to the Elves' delight), offers some assistance in return -- aid of a more linguistic nature.

Two nights after the discussion with Harnack, the House once again gathers to talk over the Dwarves of the Hithaeglir, but for a different reason. Manadhlaer has received a letter from Ulvoin, a member of the garrison at Vindurhal, requesting medical supplies. These are in abundance and easily spared, but what ohtari will protect the delivery with blade and shield, and what ettirnor will scout the way and possibly overturn answers to some of the questions that yet remain?