Himwen

Quiet. The last remnants of those departing had left a few days earlier. Even the oldest had joined this time. Himwen had seen the cave emptying, had seen the Men carry what little they owned out of this dark, dank place, to a world they barely had seen. To go south, to a part of Arda they perhaps never had visited. And still, with brave hearts and deep determination, they had taken charge of their own destinies and pushed forward. In her quiet contemplation, she pondered about the consequences of their kind taking that stride now. They would be there when she and her kind would not.

Upon approaching the hill and the narrow path, Himwen noticed two things. The camp seemed to buzz with excitement. Rangers greeted her as she ascended the slopes, some of them she had spoken to previously as she had joined them on their watch against the shadows many an eve. Slumber did not replenish her as it had before the encounter with the Good Captain and keeping a watchful eye was the best she could offer. The second thing was how empty it now looked. They were quickly removing any trace that could be found of the camp itself. Were they really leaving?

She had the order. A request uttered in forced desperation. It was clear, she had to retreat and cover the rear of the party, in case something should surprise them when confronting the Good Captain. Yes, he was of human kind, but the tales of Telpenaro had showed them that he was driven by revenge upon the elves, and had forces to impart great damage on the small party. He had not let them rest one minute...