Cirien sat upon the westward balcony and looked out over Ephel Dúath's slopes to the shining serpent of the Anduin far below, its silver gleam obscured by tree and hill as it wound its corkscrew way through the valley.  He could see to his right the vast undulating fields and vineyards and orchards of Dol Galenehtar, richly green and verdant and burgeoning with fruit; to his left he could just descry beneath the heavy boughs of the trees the glint of the estuary leading to the docks beside the Elvish city, upon which now and again he might catch sight of a small skiff or fishing-boat.  He knew that if he foreswore his comfortable arm-chair, with its tasseled footrest and conveniently located table sporting a carafe of wine with which to replenish his silver goblet, he might lean over the balustrade and look directly below the high balcony, to the entryway of the great Tower of the Green Knight, the pavers white and shining in the bright noon sun, the gleaming sweep of marble walls, the proud columns and brilliant green lawn with its sparkling fountains.  But Cirien was far too comfortable to peer over the edge of the balustrade and gaze down at the foreshortened figures of the Elves below; he had icy yellow wine, and crisp savory shortbread upon a salver, and a deliciously cool blue shade all about him; he was discovering in the advancing of his years a delight in ease and well-being, savoring small luxuries over the revered status he had known, and enjoying the value of rest and peace and quiet, far from the duties of his own house.  That the Lord of Dol Galenehtar received his aged friend joyfully and accorded him full welcome and bounty within his gleaming halls was yet the primary part of Cirien's delight in this country; here upon the heights of the hills breezes blew still in the simmering summer, and one could find soothing dark shade beneath the firs and lindens and pines; the waters flowing down the mountainside were cold and fresh, and the food plentiful and rich.  It was so unlike his own land in the midsummer, dry and rocky and blasted by hot heavy winds; the heights within his demesne were burnt brown in the heat, and seared gray in the cold; Ithilien was lush and green and growing.  And of course whenever Cirien turned a corner there were Elves – beautiful Elves, hale and strong and laughing; they gave to the Yellow Knight a tantalizing glimpse of what a life would be without illness or penury or hardship, and offered also unto him hope for the future of his kind.  And betimes as he lay in his comfortable canopied bed in the blue room, that was his for when he came to visit, he would think upon his poor beloved wife, who had died of a lingering illness some years hence, and wonder to himself if she might have lived, had he met Legolas when she was young.  Then, he speculated, perhaps the peace and plenty within the Green Knight's walls might have succored her and strengthened her, and the terrible gripping malady that had so haunted their years been stayed.

Yet despite his persistent sorrow Cirien found it difficult to be sad here; there was within the house of Legolas Thranduilion a tranquility that settled in one's core, coupled with an underlying sense of perpetual mirth, which was perhaps why sojourners to that land came eagerly and left with great reluctance.  Indeed Cirien himself had planned to be back in Edhellond some weeks ago, but delayed his departure, each day telling his host he waited still upon some important missive of his heir Gilmir that he would fain miss upon the road.  Yet this noon he was thwarted, for that epistle had indeed come, and Cirien had read it, so that coupled with his disappointment that he no longer had adequate excuse to protract his stay he was also much harrowed up in his mind on its account, and wished mightily to speak with his friend.  To make matters worse the envoy from the Rohan ambassador Théalof had come to meet with Legolas, and none within Dol Galenehtar looked upon this council with equanimity.  Cirien was amused to find Meivel was not the sole Elf within Dol Galenehtar's walls to look askance at King Éomer's cousin; even Mistress Pearl spoke of him with thinned lips and an expression of disapproval on her small pale face.  So Cirien waited upon the high balcony, watching the swallows swoop and swirl in the shade of a trembling aspen nipping up flies and sundry other insects in joyful pageantry and chattering and chirping one to another; Cirien knew he had but to wait until the fifth bell and Théalof would quit Legolas' presence for the front gate on his journey back to Minas Tirith.  Though Legolas received Théalof politely it was yet understood he was not welcome to sleep within his halls; feeling his host's censure Théalof but smiled and complied, claiming he must needs return to his offices by nightfall, and was thus escorted by a phalanx of Meivel's men – an "honor guard" Legolas called it, but all knew, Théalof as well, it was naught but indemnity against any men lingering uninvited.

Cirien had finished the wine in the carafe, and was watching the sun dip west towards the high white spike of the Mindolluin, when the fifth bell rang; he noted to himself Nyelledil had chosen to use the treble bell and not the tenor that day, and rose to his feet, listening to the bright clear chiming of the small brass bell calling the hour in the louvered campanile.  He passed within the solar from the balcony, pausing to allow his eyes to adjust to the dim interior after the brilliance of the outdoors, and made his way down to the Hall.  He nodded to the passing Elves as they went about their business, and when he gained the broad entryway to Legolas' Hall, whence emitted judgments and decrees and dictation, he paused by the great gilt oaken doors, for he could hear voices still within.  The guard at the door did not acknowledge him, but this astounded him not; the guards about Legolas' offices and chambers preserved a careful reticence and with Legolas' full knowledge allowed their lord's friends to overhear at will Dol Galenehtar's private business; in this way, Legolas laughingly explained, it saved him much time and breath rehearsing events in his council-chambers for their benefit.

"I assure you, O my lord of Dol Galenehtar, I doubt not your valor nor the security of your house; I have in mind solely the interests of my small cousin, who as I have heard through diverse means lodges here, far from kith and kin, and doubtless pines for those of his own kind.  It cannot be well for him, O Green Knight and Jewel of Ithilien, to live amongst beings so far above himself, both in age and wisdom; surely it shall spoil him, and he be made to look in scorn upon his rightful throne.  For all know King Éomer though wealthy and powerful in his own right cannot but sigh with envy when he thinks upon Dol Galenehtar and your great fortune and influence; 'twould be ill indeed for our little Fastred to become accustomed to your abundance and spurn his people in their time of great need.  And as I travel forthwith through Ithilien to Osgiliath to treat with his noble father, and with our Shieldmaiden his mother, it would be both pleasure and beholden duty for me to deliver him unto his family, or even to Rohan whence I came, to so relieve you of this load, and bring him to his accustomed people, for my cousin his uncle has great need of him, and pines for him; I would be churlish indeed to let him here, where he is naught but a burden unto you and your people, busy as you are; also I desire greatly to present him to my sovereign, who so longs for the little one's presence."

The speech was smooth and persuasive, and gave thought that the orator begged naught but to be of aid; Cirien recognized the voice of the man speaking and frowned.  That Théalof should yet be closeted with Legolas was no good thing; already three hours had he spent bending the Elf's patient yet unwilling ear, and Cirien knew his friend when tried became more like unto his father than his mother, and increasingly apt to sharp words and reckless impulse.  Thus it was with relief he heard Legolas reply in a voice both dulcet and temperate:  "O loyal vassal of the House of Éomer!  That all kings should have by their sides men such as you, who disdain personal consideration and comfort in order to succor their lords and betters, and lighten the load of those who strain beneath crushing work!  How happy my dear friend Éomer must be, to rest secure in the knowledge you watch out for his well-being, and the fortunes of his kin and heir, the child Fastred, first-born of my beloved neighbors the Prince and Princess of Ithilien!  I am reminded yet again of the selfless labor you have performed in accordance with King Éomer's requisites, of the many noble employments spent in self-sacrificing pleasure to your lord's wellbeing, and am overwhelmed by your most generous offer!  Truly is Rohan triply blessed to have you as the king's strong right hand in Gondor, and I shall cry abroad your praises that you seek to sublimate your own needs in order to succor the heir of Edoras beneath your wings, as a hen her new-hatched chicks."

"Laying it on a bit thick, ain't he?" muttered a small voice by Cirien's hip; he looked down and descried Bandobras there, ear cocked to the half-open doors; the guard in his splendid armour overheard him and glanced unmoving down; his lips twitched but he did not stir nor give any indication anyone was there, instead standing at attention, his body shielding sight from within, so that neither Théalof nor Legolas would see the two eavesdroppers.  Cirien smiled at the Hobbit, who rolled his eyes and jerked his head toward the door; Cirien bent over, and Bandobras put his mouth to the old man's ear.  "Been in there near four hours now … and the longer old Théalof speaks, the sweeter my Master's replies become, and the less he gives away."  He shook his head and said discontentedly:  "At this rate Master'll be obliged to let the dratted fellow stay the night – dinner's in two hours, and the kitchens are full of good things that I'm sure Théalof's men can smell – it'd be awful impolite to send them back with naught but their luncheon."

"Should we interrupt do you think?" whispered Cirien.  "It would be easy you know, O Bandobras Esquire of the Green Knight – I have within my doublet a letter concerning this man, and to insinuate ourselves into the conversation would be simple; also the information contained within this missive is such that Théalof should become discomfited, and remove himself forthwith.  But perhaps," he added thoughtfully, "'Twould be imprudent to so show our hands; I am sure your Master is well able to contain himself."

"Well, now, I dunno," said Bandobras, knitting his brow.  "Théalof's not so foolish as to think we're taken in by his smooth talk and sly ways.  And my Master's about had enough of this; it won't be long afore he starts picking the fellow apart himself.  Better it should come of you than of him, for then Théalof will still think my Master fair pickings, but from what you've said he knows you're a tough nut and won't dance to his music."

"Well spoken," murmured Cirien, and straightening his doublet and lifting his chin he nodded curtly to the guard, whose eyes twinkled, and who turned so that he faced the Hall, and spoke in a loud clear voice:

"Cirien the wise, Lord of Langstrand, the Yellow Knight and friend and counselor of the Prince of Eryn Lasgalen, seeks the insight of Legolas Thranduilion of Dol Galenehtar, the Green Knight and Champion of Amon Din, and brings to his fellow vassal news of the sun-drenched lands of the south which are his home."

"Why, we're all eloquent today seemingly," said Bandobras looking with approval at the guard, who winked.  Bandobras answered the wink with a wave of his hand, and pattered down the hallway, his mind on his supper.  Fighting down a traitorous smile Cirien stepped into the Hall. 

He saw immediately and to his trepidation the tight firmness of his friend's mouth, which bespoke ground and clenched teeth, and there was a dangerous glimmer in those bright gray eyes.  Yet Legolas sat with seeming equanimity upon his throne, clad in a splendid robe of silver-blue glimmering with beads and metal threads, and crowned with the shining mithril coronet of oakleaves which glistened and flashed as the afternoon sun pierced the cool dim air of the Hall.  A square of sunlight lay upon Legolas' lap like a golden blanket, and tiny rainbows graced the arms of the white throne and danced with each immortal breath round about the alabaster hood above him; when he raised his hand in greeting the sleeve of the robe flashed, and Cirien's eyes were pierced by the light which shot from the green stone upon his finger.  To Legolas' right, seated in a comfortable chair several steps below the dais, was a tall clean-shaven man, fair and handsome and clad in a rich green doublet decorated with gems; round his neck he wore a heavy gold torc that would not have looked ill upon a mighty king.  Cirien felt his heart twist angrily within him, that this man should so array himself, as though he were as great a lord as the one who sat above him, and not a mere emissary; yet he as Legolas did comported himself with tranquility and showed not the apprehension upon his face.  He gained the dais and kissed Legolas' ring, careful to not look too deeply into his friends' eyes, for he knew once their composure were broken the charade would be revealed, and Legolas had an unnerving habit of making Cirien to laugh unexpectedly, which would at that juncture be disastrous.  So straightening up he stood respectfully at Legolas' feet, well aware the man of Rohan stood behind him, watching him, mistrusting him.

"The Prince of Eryn Lasgalen gladly receives the Yellow Knight," said Legolas; his voice was dulcet still, but brittle.

"The Yellow Knight thanks the Prince of Eryn Lasgalen for his clemency," replied Cirien, knowing he and his friend would laugh over their formalities later.

"You have met I am sure the ambassador of Rohan in Minas Tirith," added Legolas, gesturing with his glittering arm down the dais; Cirien turned and met Théalof's eyes, which narrowed at him. Cirien smiled but his own eyes were hard.

"O yes," he said coolly.  "I am well-acquainted with the deeds and doings of Théalof of Rohan; my brother lords in Langstrand can scarce pass a week without mentioning his endeavors."  Théalof's eyes flickered but he smiled anyway, and held out a placating hand to the older man.

"And I have for many years longed to know the Yellow Knight, Cirien who is called The Wise, Lord of Edhellond," said Théalof; his voice was sweet as honey.  "Yet an astonishing thing it is, that he and his esquire Gilmir are continually occupied when I pass through Langstrand.  Were his politesse not so famous I should almost think he were avoiding my association."

Cirien took the man's hand; it was cold and damp, and he suppressed a shiver.  "Then as my comportment is unimpeachable you must draw your own conclusions," he replied, withdrawing his hand and resisting the impulse to wipe it clean upon his doublet.  He turned his shoulder to Théalof and spoke to Legolas, upon whose face was a look of controlled interest.  "Your highness," he said, laying his hand upon the breast of his doublet, "I have at last received that letter which we have awaited these past weeks; it lies folded in my pocket, and contains therein news of the lands of Langstrand, my beloved home, and of the many pecuniary exploits accomplished by my fellow lords and knights there.  Believe me when I say unto you, O my dearly-loved friend and bravest of defenders, that the messages enclosed therein shall bring to your fair eternal face deeply-regretted expressions of concern and sorrow, for the fortunes of the lords of Langstrand hang in the balance, and I would fain join in their misguided folly, but seek the aid of all our lords – yea, even unto Elessar's distant gates to the north – in turning their hearts from this present disastrous course.  I know not the subjects upon which you and this good emissary confer," he lied, glancing back at Théalof who had grown quite pale.  "Perhaps they are to your mind, O Legolas the Benevolent, of greater import than this dire news I bear; if that is indeed the case, gentles both, I shall withdraw so that you might conclude your business, which seems to me to be greatly pressing as it has taken a full four hours of your sovereign time, Prince of Eryn Lasgalen."

Legolas opened his mouth to speak, but a flicker of dark humor ignited his eyes and he instead pressed his lips firmly together to stifle a smile, struggling for composure.  "Have you waited for me long, O my friend?" he inquired politely, arranging upon his face an expression of artful innocence.  "But you well know that time passes swifter than the fleet-footed deer pursued by hounds when one is closeted with compatriots bound to one's own purposes."  He smiled sweetly at Théalof, who had the look about him of a man trying to see whether or not he were insulted.  "My apologies, emissary of Rohan!  Through my indecision I have taken up valuable time from you, which would be better spent in your journey back to Minas Tirith!  Why if you do not leave forthwith surely it shall be gathering night ere you gain your rooms.  Therefore I give you leave to depart, to gather together your sundry men-at-arms and other advisors, so that your journey might be made the easier in the light of the sun.  We shall speak of our sundry matters another day, when there is not such ominous news from the south, where dwell not only my dear friend Cirien here, but also good Araval of Tarlang and Mardil of Ethring, the Dun and Silver Knights, who are my brothers in arms and close companions, and for whom I should willingly send forth my armies in all their strength, should the need arise, and danger await them.  Good journey to you, Théalof of Rohan; I shall consider with great care the proposal you have laid before me, and deliver unto you a message containing my reply at the first available moment."

Théalof looked from one to the other, his eyes wary.  "But the boy Fastred," he said at last; "forgive me, Lord Legolas, O Green Knight and the Protector of Ithilien, it shall take him some time to gather up his belongings so that he might accompany me back; perhaps I ought rather to wait upon him ere I depart, to give him sufficient time to collect his things.  To travel at night through your enchanted lands affords me no disquiet for I know well little occurs within your sacred borders to cause fear, and I have at my disposal many brave and strong men to protect him.  We shall arrive safely and the boy delivered in full health though we stay but an hour longer."

"That will be unnecessary," said Legolas, his voice cool and his eyes hooded.  "Fastred son of Faramir shall remain within my halls ere his debt to me is repaid.  There is no need to delay yourself on his account; you are free of obligation in that regard."  He watched Théalof as the man struggled to find yet another argument, then with a small smile said kindly, "You have my permission to withdraw, O Théalof."

Face dark with frustration Théalof bowed stiffly, gave Cirien a fearful look, and turned on his heel.  He walked the full length of the Hall under the unsympathetic eye of the guard at the door, whose face was unreadable, yet all watching the guard could see his hands tighten upon the grip of his spear.  Théalof did not hesitate but strode past the Elf, head high; he was confident in the courtesy of Legolas' house.  "Too confident," thought Cirien to himself, for he well knew Elves suffered from shortness of temper as well as their mortal friends.  He watched Théalof turn the corner and disappear, then looked back up at Legolas, whose shoulders had slumped, and upon whose face was an expression of deep disgust.

"Have I occasion to speak yet another word containing greater than twenty letters I shall surely commit gross murder," he said; he shook his head as though twitching away a teasing fly and added, "And hark at me yet!  By Manwë, I have not sounded so pompous in many years; would not my father laugh at me could he have heard me just now!"

"The greatest aggravation with such courtly language is that it is difficult to cast off once it is assumed," agreed Cirien. 

Legolas rose, removed his crown, and ran his long fingers through his hair, disarranging it and marring the studied perfection of his form.  "Well I want a drink," he declared, hooking the crown over the arm of his throne and loosening the hooks of his robe at his throat.  "Is the letter so bad, or was that simply your conniving way to rid me of that pest Théalof?  Either way I greet you with delight; I am once more deeply in your debt, O Cirien my friend.  But one more twisted phrase from those snakelike lips and I should have kicked him across the hall to the entryway, and down the main staircase through the front gates!  Indeed I have entertained such thoughts the past two hours, amusing myself with the image he would make, tumbling down the broad marble steps like a child's doll."

"I ought rather to have left you to it then," said Cirien smiling.  "But alas!  My news from Gilmir is not good, O my friend; Théalof has succeeded in securing treaties with all but three lords in Langstrand, from Calembel where dwelt the nefarious Eradan, to Poros by the Harad road."

"Those three lords being, I take it, you, Mardil, and Araval?"

"The acumen of the Lord of Dol Galenehtar once again proves itself," sighed Cirien, withdrawing the letter from the inner pocket of his doublet and handing it to Legolas.  "Even poor Hallas has succumbed to Théalof's honeyed tongue and the promise of wealth, for as you know he is poor; Baldor left him little, and his wife is most imprudent in the production of heirs."  The Elf shrugged off his robe, revealing a light linen shirt and trousers beneath, and casting his heavy garment upon the seat of his throne sat down on the steps of the dais to read the letter.  Cirien sat himself upon Théalof's chair and watched as his friend's face grew graver and graver.  After a moment Legolas raised his head and said,

"Well, now I need double the drink; this is worse than we had thought!  Théalof has managed to wheedle his way into the fortunes of Langstrand, betraying not only his own lord but our sovereign Elessar!  How angry Aragorn shall be," he sighed, resting his chin on his hand.  "Alas that he had need to secure his northern reaches!  That he were here to take this in hand himself, though to be sure I see not what part he could take, as he gave leave to his vassals to so ally themselves with Rohan.   Well," he said, folding the letter and handing it back to Cirien, "I know well my old friend Aragorn; he is not above rescinding treaties if they serve him not, and has the might of the armies to back him up if need be.  I hope it shall not come to this though, and Théalof be found a traitor ere force must needs be used.  Gondor is divided enough, and Elessar has had trouble unending with these southern duchies.  At least the fiefdoms round the Anduin are loyal.  Ah and that pricks my memory, O my friend; that serpent Théalof did suggest unto me, with regretful eye and diffident expression, that lest I claim the lands round Onodló the Red Knight shall be further beset by those unhappy pests the Dunlendings.  He indeed had sufficient effrontery to press me to accept the parcel immediately, claiming Éomer repudiated his claim there, yet, I did not fail to note, did not mention Bréawine at all. I do not think he is even aware Bréawine has approached Aldamir about the draining of the marshes; he surely would have mentioned it to me otherwise."

"The Dunlendings have ever been a threat to Aldamir's western borders," said Cirien, "and surely Théalof is well aware you have gone to his aid, beating the ruffians back at Aldamir's side, the Red and Green Knights resolved together.  Did Théalof indeed propose you take those lands not only from Éomer and Errakh-Hem but Aldamir as well?  It seems to me there are far too many claimants to that particular tract; does he propose apportioning each hectare by lot?"

"By arms more like," laughed Legolas, standing and stretching his long limbs.  "I find it unusual and inauspicious for a man of Rohan to be so wed to words; spear and sword are their preferred tools for negotiation.  He is as unlike my friend Éomer as a lion a fish; I know not the proximity of relation betwixt those two for the Rohirrim mark their ancestry in charts as convoluted as the Halflings have, but it must be a distant connection for save the color of their hair I can find naught in common with them both.  And to bring up his proximity to Fastred!  I know not what thought has he to take the heir from my protection, but I shall be fool indeed ere I let Faramir's son pass into the clutches of that rake."

"Perhaps he wishes to play upon Lady Éowyn's instincts, by delivering unto her the heir of Osgiliath, so that she will refuse her brother's need," said Cirien.  "It is a sore trial to her I know to so release her son to Rohan; Théalof must think her puling indeed to bend beneath such grief, for you and I know full well she is adamant and fiercely loyal.  But thieves think all think as thieves, and likely Théalof assumes all are fickle as he."

"Then we must needs play upon that failing, and let him so think," said Legolas.  He hesitated, his bright eyes distant and troubled, then said slowly:  "Yet his interest in my small charge disquiets me; I think I shall send someone to collect little Lord Fastred where he is and watch over him ere Théalof and his band of miscreants depart my halls.  So long as the serpent of Rohan lingers in my dwelling I do not believe the son of Faramir and Éowyn ought be left alone."  He gestured to the guard then and said, "Astaldir!  Tell Galás to send someone to Fastred of Ithilien, or to go unto him himself, and stay with him ere our friends from Rohan depart.  I do not want the boy wandering about alone."

"At once, your highness," said the guard with a bow, and left; Legolas turned back to Cirien with a smile and said:  "Now!  And what about that drink?  Perchance you are not so dry as I but I would fain drink alone.  Will you accompany me, O Yellow Knight and wisest of companions, to the buttery, where we might begin our feast early?  For the afternoon has been trying and your friend the Green Knight yearns for sweet yellow wine."  Laughing Cirien agreed, and the two knights left the Hall for the solar, and thence to the keep to seek solace for their stomachs.

**************

As for Fastred, he was as his friend had feared quite alone; having finished his apprenticeship in the eastern courtyard he had been studying the stars, closeting himself in the nursery with charts and globes and astrolabes and spending many happy nights upon Legolas' balcony, watching the slow complicated dance of the planets as they wound their ponderous way about the vast wheeling dome of the sky.  He had just completed a new star chart upon a large piece of parchment, marking the movements of Alkarinque through the constellations of Menelmakar and Wilwarin, and was quite proud of it; once he had blotted it he rolled it up tight, secured it with a ribbon, and quit his room to find Lord Lassah, so that he might be released from his studies for the day.  He hoped he might persuade his friend to go riding with him, for he knew Legolas had been closeted with a visitor that day and like himself the Elf did not willingly foreswear sun and grass and tree for the dubious pleasures of the counsel-chamber.  So he trotted down the hall, preoccupied with thoughts of the hot sun on his back, and the squeak of Karakse's saddle, and the smell of dust and warm stone, and when he rounded the screen at the head of the stairs was so startled to see before him a group of men he stopped immediately, his heart pounding with surprise.

The men also stopped, and one of them stepped forward to him, smiling; Fastred hesitated, wondering what they were doing in that part of the tower, for it housed the personal apartments of the Lord of Dol Galenehtar and his closest friends and family and he was certain he had never met this man before.  The stranger was handsome and splendidly dressed, and his face open and friendly, but Fastred had been taken aback and hesitated to approach.

"Greetings, O my kinsman!" cried the man, holding out his hand and smiling in a friendly fashion at Fastred.  "How fortune favors me today!  I had just come up from Lord Legolas' Hall to seek you, and here you fall right into my lap!  What a joy it is to make your acquaintance, O Fastred Prince of Ithilien!  Long have I desired to foregather with you, for you and I are cousins, and blood calls to blood even in these sacred halls."

"I beg your pardon, sir; I do not know you," said Fastred politely, his heart slowing.  He looked round the group of men and saw they were of Rohan, and smiled.  "But you must be kin to my mother then; I do not often go to Rohan, though I am to live there anon."

"So you are; and as we go so shall you," said the man with an affable laugh.  "I have just spoken with Lord Legolas concerning this very thing; as I am on my way to Rohan myself it is far more practical to bring you with me, than for you to languish in these halls, the sole mortal child among such lofty beings.  I am Théalof, special ambassador of your mother's brother to King Elessar, and am charged with a noble task – to bring the heir of Meduseld unto my sovereign safely, so that you might begin your proper instruction as a man of Rohan."

Fastred went pale.  "I – I am to leave immediately?" he said, his heart sinking with disappointment.  "But – I have not finished my studies here – and I still have so much to learn ere I go unto mine uncle."

"Ah," said Théalof, shaking his head, "think you wisdom and knowledge reside in Dol Galenehtar alone?  I tell you there is far more that you might learn outside these halls; besides it is far more prudent to acquire knowledge appropriate to the kingdom in which you shall live.  Wise as he is, your friend Lord Legolas is an Elf – immortal, removed from our brief lives, possessing great knowledge in things that concern Elves and other such-like – stars and trees and jewels and thus; things we men of Rohan do not mark.  But you are a man, and it is better to be instructed by a man, since you shall rule over men and not Elves."

Fastred frowned; despite Théalof's flattering words he did not like to hear anyone disparage Elves, and Legolas in particular.  Notwithstanding his friendly demeanor he mistrusted this man, and did not think he wanted to go with him; besides something felt odd to Fastred, a tickling uncomfortable sensation in his heart he had come to recognize as a warning sign against a liar.  "Besides which I cannot believe Lassah would simply throw me out with no explanations or good-byes," he thought; "Lassah is not like that."  "I cannot leave straight way," he said to the man, hoping he could gain time.  "I have not packed my things.  I am not ready.  You will have to wait."  He took a step backwards, attempting to lengthen the distance between himself and Théalof; suddenly to his mind he heard Himbaláth's words, as the Elf had instructed him in the use of the halberd:  "Ere your enemy advances stand your ground; step neither forward nor back, for if you step forward you shall engage him when perchance combat might be avoided, and if you step back you shall encourage him to attack.  Let your enemy come to you."  Wishing heartily for a halberd in the place of his star chart Fastred stepped back again, and to his dismay Théalof and his men stepped forward, closing the gap he had made; then Fastred changed his mind about wanting a halberd and decided he would prefer Himbaláth instead.

"There is not much time, cousin," smiled Théalof.  "If we are to gain Osgiliath by nightfall we must needs leave immediately.  Surely your Lord Father and Lady mother have sufficient clothing and such in your home!  You may leave your things here to collect at a later time; imagine how glad your mother shall be when you arrive!  And the rest of your possessions reside still in your old rooms in Osgiliath.  Will it not be pleasant to use them again?  I am sure you miss them, and your family too.  So foreswear the few paltry items you have here; the sun falls westward and time is short."

Fastred took another step back, his heart starting to pound again; Théalof stepped forward, his hand still outstretched, his mouth still smiling.  Fastred opened his mouth to object but then his ears, sharpened by his fear, caught a strange sound – a click-click-click and a guttural grunt, coming from behind him.  He did not dare turn, but watched instead Théalof's face; it changed, the smile fading, and the eyes lighting with alarm; then a look of contempt crossed it, and he drew back, his smile sardonic.

"Well, maid, have you lost your way?" he asked, his voice cool.  "Methinks this not the place for such beasts, and by your attire I perceive you are better fitted the yards below."  A couple of his men sniggered, and Fastred turned.  Andunië stood there, clad in her dirty tunic and riding-skirt; in each hand she held a dog on a lead.  These were not the hunting hounds Fastred loved however, with their silky ears and tails like flags and easy dispositions; these were bull terriers, short-snouted, bandy-legged beasts with slavering tongues in their toothy grinning faces.  They strained against their heavy leads, sniffing the air and making anxious throaty noises, staring past Fastred to the men congregated by the screen before them.  Fastred's heart leaped with relief – any other maid, Dúrfinwen or Hirilcúllas or even Seimiel, would not have comforted him like Andunië; woman though she was Fastred knew her to be strong and quick and brave, and the presence of the terriers was also reassuring, for these were not friendly hounds but stalwart terriers, and though they might not be fully trained all beasts danced to Andunië's tune.  Not wishing her to think him cowardly he stood his ground and let her come round him, the dogs' nails clicking on the marble pavers, their brindled backs thick and muscular, the crooked little tails immobile.  They pricked their pointed ears at the men and watched, and though Fastred was a little afraid of the terriers he was greatly relieved to have them beside him.

"I know my way well round my lord's halls," said Andunië, her voice even.  "It seems to me rather you have lost your way, O Théalof of Rohan.  I do not recall your being invited into this section of Dol Galenehtar's towers."

"You will address your betters with some semblance of respect," said one of the men warningly, his hand on his hilt.  "His grace will not bear insolence from a common serving-wench."

Fastred's heart flared with indignation, but Andunië seemed unperturbed.  "I do indeed address my betters with respect," she said simply.  "I have naught for which to apologize."

The men stared at her, and Théalof's face went scarlet.  "I have not the time for such insignificant debate," he said through gritted teeth.  He turned to Fastred and his voice sweetened.  "Come, cousin!" he said with a smile.  "We need not stand about wasting time better spent returning to Osgiliath.  Bid the servant and her pets good-bye and come with me."  He took a step forward, holding out his hand to Fastred, but just then one of the dogs barked; its deep voice echoed through the hall and sounded very loud; the other dog began to growl, and Fastred saw its hackles rise.  Théalof hesitated, watching the dogs cautiously, then with a small smile turned to Andunië and said, "Hold your beasts, girl; it is unseemly for hunting dogs to roam the halls thus.  Go you unto your lord that he might mend your manners better beneath the headsman's rod."  The men laughed at this, though Fastred noted they watched the dogs carefully as well.

"They are not hunting dogs," said Andunië with an air of disinterest.  "These are war-dogs.  They have been trained to kill men not beasts."

There was a brief and rather uncomfortable silence following this announcement.  Fastred watched Théalof's face; he seemed to be struggling within; at last assuming an expression of low cunning he said: 

"I am surprised that you should lie so boldly to a visiting dignitary, girl; as anyone can see there are but bitches before me, and no bitch is used in the art of war."

Théalof's men grinned at that, and Fastred thought they looked quite pleased with what their lord had said; Andunië however only replied:

"The male dogs are used in battle; the females to protect those behind the lines.  There is no difference in skill nor ferocity; in fact it has been my experience that the female dogs far exceed their mates when ordered to defend the helpless, using their own lives as shields so that women and children might be safeguarded."  Théalof did not reply but watched her warily; Andunië's face was as ever a cool expressionless mask, and appeared quite calm, but Fastred could see her hands upon the lead-straps gripped the dogs tightly so that her knuckles were white.  One of the terriers barked again, and then they both set up growling and snapping their great heavy jaws; they felt their mistress' disquiet and tried to surge forward, pulling on the leads.  Théalof took another step back, and his men began to look nervous.

"I tell you, girl, contain your beasts," said Théalof; his voice was harsh now, and he looked angry.  But Andunië shrugged.

"They are strong, and I am but a weak woman," she said.  "Who knows how long I shall be able to hold them back?  And as you can see they do not seem to approve of you.  I suggest you go back down the hallway, to the keep, and thence to the entry way, and mount your steeds, which await you there; you have said your good-byes I think, and lack naught for your journey.  Terriers are tenacious, you know, O man of Rohan, and renowned for persistence and strength; did you know, for example, that this dog here – " she shook the left lead " – chased down a thief on a horse, hamstrung his steed, and dragged the man twenty yards through the shrub to his pursuers?  To be sure she was perhaps a touch too eager for by the time the man was brought back his throat had been torn out, and he died a few moments later."  The men looked at the dog with apprehension, and Andunië added objectively, "Nakthan is a good dog."

Théalof hesitated, then turned to Fastred; despite his anger and chagrin he smiled down at the boy.  "Come then!" he said, glancing quickly at Andunië.  "There is not a moment to lose; let me take you from this dangerous place!"

"I cannot go," said Fastred; his voice sounded very high and thin over the growling of the beasts by his side, but it was their presence gave him the courage to speak.  "I have sworn fealty unto the Lord of Dol Galenehtar and there remain yet two months' debt to him in his service.  I thank you for your offer, Théalof of Rohan, but I remain here.  Good journey to you," he added pointedly.

Théalof stood angrily with his men, his hands working by his sides; Fastred could hear even over the growling of the dogs the rough skittering noise of teeth ground together.  The left-hand terrier barked again and snarled at him; this appeared to make up his mind for him, for he gave Fastred a brief bow and with his eyes on Andunië and the dogs said:

"Very well, cousin – I will meet you in Rohan in two months' time then.  I shall leave you under the spurious protection of the bitches of Dol Galenehtar."  Then he turned and with a sweep of his cloak he and his men retreated down the hall, their booted feet clacking and clattering on the tiles.  The terriers renewed their barking, tugging on their leads and snarling angrily until Théalof and his men were out of sight; then Andunië said sharply:  "Hama, Nakthan!  Hama, Ndengina! Daro!"  The dogs looked up at her and subsided, though they still stood and watched after the men.  Fastred took a deep breath and turned to her.

"O I am so glad you came when you did, Andunië!  I did not know what to do; I did not think Lord Lass – Legolas would consign my fate to those men, but in truth I knew not how to avoid them."

"Hm," said Andunië disinterestedly, giving one of the leads to Fastred.  He took it with hesitation, but the terrier looked up at him and wagged her stump of a tail at him, and he felt better.  "Come back to the kennels," said the huntsmistress, and turned away, walking with the other dog back down the hallway.

"Why did you bring the dogs up here, anyway?" asked Fastred curiously, following her with his dog.

Andunië did not reply, but turned to a nearby oriel open to the hot summer wind; to Fastred's surprise a kestrel was perched on one of the crenellations, its bright yellow eyes staring unblinkingly at him; it clicked its hooked beak and flew off.  Fastred stared after it in amazement.  Then he realized Andunië was still walking down the hallway, and his own terrier tugging at the lead to follow her; he hurried to catch up with her, and they walked along in silence through the cool dark hall a moment 'til they reached the back staircase.  Fastred sighed.

"How I wish I could speak with beasts as do you!" he said wistfully.  "It must be helpful to have them tell you what passes, so you might act with greater speed."  Andunië was silent, and Fastred ruminated over what had just occurred; then with a start he recalled Théalof's words to her, and his heart filled with hot wrath.  "O that awful man!" he cried angrily, stamping his foot; "that he should call you such a thing!  O that I were full-grown so that I could take him to task for speaking an insult to a lady of the house of Dol Galenehtar!  O Andunië, I am so sorry one of my kinsmen could have said such a thing to you!  How shameful!"

Andunië looked calmly at him.  "Insults are like bird-droppings," she said.  "The smaller and more insignificant the bird, the less mess it will make."

Despite himself Fastred laughed, but then he thought anew on Théalof's words and shook his head.  "Well anyway," he said darkly, "I know you do not wish for a champion, Andunië, but someday I shall avenge his words and thrash him soundly."

Andunië yet did not smile, but her green eyes seemed to soften.  "That will be a great comfort to me, Fastred of Rohan," she said, and led him to the kennels.