Numenstaya

'He drew me closer, and we danced as if it was for the first time. The music of the Prince’s Ball in Thargelion was in our minds and steps, that we moved as one. And I thought how much more I enjoyed the dance than smiting the dummies earlier. I was happy, and he knew it.

Ceuro struggles with Estarfin's inactivity regarding the sudden news. He understands Estarfin's thoughts concerning how duplicitous Culufinnel can be, but having seen the site near Duillond, and the man's body, having seen the state of Pelorian and Swanfoot, he cannot help but be concerned for Danel and Parnard. He is glad that at least, Yrill is trying to comfort the weeping Marawendi.

Yrill and Ceuro steady Barahirn as he takes his first steps outside. He is weak on his legs still, but the bones have healed well. Filignil supervises. 

Two unexpected, but most welcome, visitors arrive within a short time of each other. The first, Earcalie of Forlindon is an acquaintance of Danel's from her recent time in Imladris. More than acquaintance really, as the older elleth looks upon the lively, curious younger one with favour and hopes for a happy future. 

The second, Hingalas the Ropemaker of Mithlond, is an old friend of both Danel and Parnard. He arrives reminding the others that he was invited to their Autumn Festival, but could not attend then so is visiting now. 

Story:  'A Muted Midsummer Feast', by Parnard.

There is still a celebration a little after Midsummer Day, but the participants cannot bring themselves to enjoy it to the full. Although they appreciate each other's company, and the fine food prepared mostly by Parnard and Marawendi, (though the return of Filignil at the last moment means the return of Roast Chicken,) they are still in a measure of shock at what happened to their home, and at the loss of Aearlinn. 

Strange, how small, almost momentary thoughts can grant me a measure of rest.

With so much on my mind about what has happened, about what we do now...how to ensure we are safe in the future, yet that we do not live in a cage....those tiny distractions are welcome. It is almost like burying my head in a good book for ten minutes. My thoughts feels clearer afterwards. 

Strange, that my latest distraction was a memory of Ruineth, back in Imladris, that it was a hint of an action that moved me.

Barahirn managed a smile. It was still a bit one sided, but it felt good to him. Danel had finally permitted him to look in a mirror. No more yellow bruises, he could clearly see that. That had been what everyone mentioned when they first saw him.

"Oh, the bruises! Well, they will fade."

He smiled again. No one had wanted to say 'You look terrible', but he had known he did, he felt he did. 

Filignil arrives back in Numenstaya, horrified by the damage done. She is welcomed warmly, the others more glad that she is alive than curious concerning where she has been. An explanation to Danel can come later.

The Huntress immediately throws herself into her original role of Housekeeper, and tries to help by providing what food she can. Then she will join in with the trench digging.