Parnard

Parnard rose to his feet and bowed before Estarfin as he approached us. He looked a little weary to me, though not overly so. We tried to take regular shifts of guard duty, he and I, Yrill and Ceuru and Filignil. Barahirn protested he was also able to take his turn, but we deemed he needed a couple more weeks rebuilding his strength. 

“I was hoping to drag Naergon out of his musings, but I haven’t seen him all day,” Earcalie said. “He has moved here as well. Waiting to make his mind up about sailing. You do remember him?”

I glanced at Hingalas, knowing what was to follow. Although he was merrily helping himself to the food he had selected, his eyes had that gleam of sudden keenness that I recognised. From the edge of my vision I saw Parnard gulp.

(This tale takes place two days before Danel and Parnard leave Numenstaya for Celondim.)

(The evening before 'Errand Boy' by Parnard )

The roads were not muddy, to Parnard's relief, as he would not have his new cloak or armour splashed, and many brilliant lamps cast a silver glow upon the elves as they traveled to the market town of Celondim.

Estarfin opened his mouth to speak, but then looked away. “We should make preparations,” he said softly. But that was not his original thought.

I tilted my head and reached out to him again, “What is it?” I asked, sensing his reticence.