Hingalas

Ceuro took the empty plate and goblet and headed back down from the lookout spot on the ridge. He had endured something of an onslaught from the angry Filignil. She was still on duty, and would be for another hour, and she was not at all amused that she had only just had the day’s happenings explained to her. The Housekeeper-come-Guard was a swift shot with a bow. None would enter Numenstaya without her knowing, and her permission.

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.)

I walked out of the Halls, aware of the heavy wooden door swinging closed and the guards bidding us farewell.

It happened the second time, as I left the Hall of Lord Cirdan. Something I could not explain. 

There was a sound of horns in the distance, as of one blowing into great seashells that echoed the music of the sea, the beauty, the yearning for home..aye even home beyond Valinor. True home it was that sounded through the waters. 

Parnard and Danel had not been long in town, and were huddled together in conversation about their plan to visit Lord Cirdan, and what to do next, when they heard a cheerful voice calling to them.

“I did not expect such illustrious company to respond to my request,” said a fair-haired elf who was quickly approaching.