Two Elves sat perched upon a high branch. Garbed in grey cloaks, they would appear like two rock-pigeons of extraordinary size. If one had any hope of seeing them, that is, for they were March-wardens of the Forest, soldiers of the White Lady and the Wise Lord, and none could mark their passing - or perching - lest they wished for it. From here they could survey all who walked or crawled or slithered upon the forest floor that was their duty to watch. Yet so few passed by that the long hours and days were filled mostly by idle chatter... at least, for one of them.
"I heard the blond one departed again," said he, as he swung one leg down below the branch.
"Mm," grunted the other.
A moment passed.
"She was headed for Imladris. Elrond's folk. Hasn't she been there before?" he asked.
"Mm," came the reply.
A second moment came and, acrimoniously, went.
"... the High Pass is far to the north," the first pointed out, "and from what I hear the Gap of Rohan is all but shut. Not to mention it's twice as far to Imladris going 'round the south-way. Why do you suppose she came through here?"
"How am I to know her mind?!" he snapped
A third moment, loathing its poor station in life, slogged on by, with more than half a mind to catch up and share a few choice words with the previous two.
The Elf cracked a faint smile under his hood. "Perhaps she just wanted to say 'fare-well'!" he said, with a merry satisfaction.
"... Mm."
The moments, thoroughly routed, gave way, and there was little to break the silence save the rustle of leaves in the new Spring canopy and the twittering of bird-song.
Suddenly both Elves turned, for heading toward their tree at a swift but measured pace was another of their order, and without ado he sprang up into the lower boughs and ascended. It was not long before he reached the two on high and made his report, sharing, as he did, the fresh rations he had brought. "All quiet to the North," he said, "no new stirrings to the East. Haldir's forces in the West broke another raiding party, no losses. Also, Thandind, a letter arrived from your sister."
The grumbling Elf's eyes shot open wide, and he rounded on the third, "Cesistya?! How is she? Is she alright?!"
"Yes, yes!" came the exasperated reply, "She sends her love and her assurance that she is safe and well. It seems a friend of hers had come down Anduin heading for Gondor; she was meant to rest here but circumstances forced her to hasten along. So please! Eat, drink, and for once in your life, relax! All is well!"
The gathered moments turned and gazed in wide-eyed hope as the last of their order strode courageously across the paths of the three Elven sentries.
"...... Mm."
