'Something I overheard has been troubling my mind, nésa,' Calentauriel said to her sister.
'What is it, nésa?' Eregiel asked.
'I did not intend to eavesdrop, but shortly after the Grey Company met the party of riders on the road I overheard Elrohir convey a message from his father to Elessar: The days are short. If thou art in haste, remember the Paths of the Dead.' (1)
Eregiel replied, '"The Paths of the Dead"? That is an ominous name!'
'Indeed it is, nésa,' said Calentauriel. 'I believe this mission of ours is about to take a very unexpected turn.'
The Grey Company, which now included Elessar, Legolas, and Gimli, rode forth from the Hornburg to Edoras, the royal seat of the Rohan, where sat the Golden Hall of Meduseld.
~Edoras~
Their respite was brief, however, as they continued south to Harrowdale, arriving at nightfall. They were greeted by Éowyn, the daughter of King Théoden's late sister Théodwyn.
~Harrowdale~
The Grey Company arose early the next morning before dawn and travelled to the Dimholt, a dark wood beneath the Dwimorberg, as the Men of Rohan call it, the Haunted Mountain.
As they rode the sisters Eregiel and Calentauril spoke softly between themselves.
'Did you observe Éowyn before we left Harrowdale ?' Eregiel asked her sister.
'I did,' replied Calentauriel. 'She appeared deeply sorrowful.'
'I observed the same, nésa,' Eregiel stated. 'I overheard her attempt to persuade Elessar to wait for the king and the others to arrive. Furthermore, since she could not change his mind, she asked to ride in his company.'
'That is very odd, nésa,' Calentauril commented. 'Did not King Théoden command that she lead their people in his absence?'
'That is my understanding, yes,' answered Eregiel. 'And do you know what she said to me? "I envy you Elven shieldmaidens, doing as you will the same as any Elf-lord."'
Calentauriel laughed, then stopped herself short. 'Did you challenge her misconception?'
'I briefly considered it, but decided that any attempt to convince her otherwise would be futile,' Eregiel replied.
~The End of Part Six~
(1) J.R.R. Tolkien, 'The Return of the King', The Passing of the Grey Company
