Found:
Camp.
It took longer than expected to get here. I'll admit a certain reluctance to move too fast, foolish as that may be. My feet drag for a reason, but not one that will make much difference in the end.
Still, my delay was not entirely without purpose. As I poked around a hilltop shrine, I was happened upon by none other than Taala. We spoke at length, she and I, and in so doing came to know a little more about one another. I had been previously unaware that she was with-child for example - a wonderful piece of news, especially given her admittance that her own father had once sought to end her line. She also spoke of a son left behind in Rohan, a son who resides along my path as it happens. When she requested that I look in on him, pass to him the only thing that she values beside her wedding ring, I did not refuse. How could I? Certainly, it may make matters that little more awkward for me - a stranger of darker hue looking for a specific child to whom she bears no relation. It could so easily be taken amiss. But, really, even I have more compassion within my heart than to turn a way a mother who so clearly loves the child she was forced to leave behind.
I find myself wondering about my own mother. Had she been allowed to survive her husband's wrath, would she have shed tears for my loss as Taala did for her son? Would she have fled her home with me in her arms, seeking a sanctuary for us both? Would she be proud of the woman I have become?
At times like these, I would usually take from my pocket that necklace she sent with me. I would gently run my fingers along the platinum setting, feeling at each jewel in turn. It is a truly beautiful and unique piece, the sapphires and garnets set in such a way as to resemble a cascade, a waterfall beneath the sunset. I have kept it for all these years, safe and secure about my person, but it is in my possession no longer. I gave it to Taala that she might pass it to Rhaug on my behalf. Though he may again mistake my intention for manipulation, it is anything but. It is a desire for security on my part for if I do not make it back this time, I want my most prized possession to be in the hands of someone I care for. I don't want my "family" to have it.
Now, I sit in the lee of Weathertop, a camp I have used several times in the past. In fact, the last time I was here, I spent several wonderful days with Yarassi. My recollection of that time, and of him, are warm. I wonder if that is because I enjoyed his company so, or if the sacrifice he made on my behalf has coloured my memories.
In either case, I stay here for the moment, waiting for something that will never come. I know how fruitless this is. I know how stupid and wasteful my actions are in this case. I know how idiotic I am being. I know how this goes. Isn't it always the same?
