The Elves were on the road once more the day following their performance in the Elfking's Halls. Thorlind again proved to be an excellent guide. Thankfully, the way was far easier on the eastern leg of their journey through the Greenwood.
~Village of the Raft-elves~
When one first hears of the "Raft-elves" one might imagine web-footed folk hopping from log to log like frogs among the lily pads. This is nonsense, of course. Rather, they are Wood-elves who live in a village set among the grasses and reeds at the mouth of the Rhachló. The Raft-elves were chiefly employed transporting goods between those who live in the Elvenking's Halls and the Men of Lake-town.
'Welcome, visitors from afar!' said an important-looking Wood-elf. 'I am Lorndúr, Master of the Raft-elves. My people and I will see to your every comfort during your stay.
The Elves of Laurië Lassi were shown great courtesy by the Raft-elves, who were truly appreciative of the guests who had travelled so far to play for them. The musicians were given temporary lodging, and supplied with as much food and drink as they desired. The following day the musicians performed for their hosts.
~The Return Home~
The following day the musicians packed their things for the return trip. Celebthondir would need no guide to lead them through the Greenwood this time. He required only torches to light the way through the dense forest.
Eregiel was very pleased to see that the horses had been well cared for by the Beornings. Grimbeorn refused the silver the Elves offered in payment.
The Elves' hearts leapt with joy when the golden treetops of the mellyrn at last came into view. They would not be truly home, however, until they passed through the gates of Caras Galadhon.
'That was a fine adventure, nésa,' said Calentauriel to Thibinoriel. 'I am glad that we undertook it, but am even more glad to be home again.' Calentauriel hesitated for a moment before adding, 'And thank you, Celebthondir, for bravely leading us through the wilderness.'
'You are most welcome, Calentauriel,' Celebthondir responded. 'I will be happy to do so again if Lady Galadriel wills it.'
Thibinoriel asked her sister. 'Have you no regrets, nésa? Is there nothing else you would have liked to have done or seen?'
'Yes, as a matter of fact I would,' Calentauriel answered. 'I would have very much liked to have tried one of the Beornings' honeycakes.'
Thibinoriel reached into her satchel. 'Perhaps this will do?' she asked with a smile. In her hand she held a honeycake wrapped in fine cloth.
'Nésa, you got one for me!' Calentauriel gleefully exclaimed. 'May I eat it now?'
'Yes, if you wish,' replied Thibinoriel.
Calentauriel took a large bite of the honeycake and began chewing.
'Well, what do you think?' inquired Thibinoriel.
'Sweet...and very sticky,' answered Calentauriel between bites. 'Very satisfying...'
'But?' Thibinoriel asked.
'...but not as delectable as lembas,' Calentauriel replied as she devoured the last of the honeycake.
All the Elves laughed.
~The End~
