Galdor Glimpses the Future

The leaves rustled gently above his head and his keen ears could hear the soft murmuring of some forest creatures nearby. Galdor following Elbereth along the Celebrant, its trickling waters calming him further as he watched the shimmering Maia brush her fingertips along the old gnarled trunk of a mighty Mallorn. It seemed to him the giant tree bent towards her, its branches and leaves seeking her caress.

Elbereth turned and bestowed a wistful smile upon him. 'Maethril nin (My warrior), is it not a joy to bask in the sensation of complete peace at this time,' her musical voice washed over him in waves.

Galdor glowed, his heart leaping at her gaze and words. 'It is indeed a seldom felt situation for me, Elenion Ancalima (Brightest of Stars). There has been Darkness and strife among and around us most of my life.'

Galdor, Protector of Lothloriel

Galdor of the Trees  let long-subdued memories arise and relived the battles, the blood and the dying he had encountered in his long life, but the visions soon faded as the soothing presence of the Keeper of Lothloriel once again focused his energy on their surroundings.

An array of animals, birds and insects fluttered and danced in Elbereth's wake. He knew she was communing with them, but try as he might, he could understand none of the murmuring. He gazed at Elbereth in surprise as she spoke in a tongue he did understand... 'In time you too shall understand and join in these conversations with our little friends here, Thalionen (my champion). Remain vigilant and willing, in patience lays much reward.'

He grinned. Elves were patient in character when compared to the often hasty Second Born, yet he had recently learnt a valuable lesson. Elbereth had pointed out a human to him when they had last visited Taibreamh and suggested he watch the man for a time.

As she had continued her wandering among the hills and vales of the lush region, he had viewed the young man from a distance. The sun had reached its zenith and Galdor's amazement grew as the human remained perched on the side of a lake, unmoving, fishing rod in his hand, hopefully awaiting the bite of some curious creature of the depths.

On Elbereth's return, she had laughed softly at his puzzled visage and asked him whether he still thought all humans rash and incompatible with stillness.

Galdor had replied that it was indeed a rare sight for him. The meditative state of the young man so contrary to the often loud and unthinking actions of many human youth.

'This young man is a passionate fisher, my friend. He has studied his prey, but also his own disadvantages and learned to compensate well. The meditative state he enters gives the fish no account of his being there. He will wait many hours to make a catch, but I have yet to encounter a time where he has not thanked his prize for rewarding his patience and then returned his new acquaintance to its watery home. I'm inclined to think that it has actually become a game between man and fish - just who will display the most patience on this day!'

Galdor chuckled and inclined his head towards the glittering form of the Maia, his tone reverent, 'Herinya (my Lady), thank you for making me see things in a different light. There are truly surprises enough when encountering the other races of these lands and I see that there is much to learn from man and beast... and fish!'

Elbereth's tinkling laugh was carried on the breeze as the rise towards Mirkwood appeared before them and she became thoughtful.

'The Woodland King has been true to his word. His pledge to give sanctuary to those Elves from Calenhad who seek it, has been fulfilled. Soon we will go among the woodland elves and their new brethren and celebrate the strengthening of the Elven kingdom of Thranduil.'

'As you wish, my Lady. But how fare the other exiles from the River Lands?'

Elbereth Looks toward the Shire

Elbereth looked far off across the waves lapping on the shores of Lothloriel, taking time with her answer, 'Meneldor the mighty Eagle has reported that the humans venturing through the Shire towards Brandyfields were greeting warmly by most. There was surprisingly little dissent among the Hobbits themselves and the ArchDruid Fiesty managed to feed and shelter the many exiles with much energy and little fuss. A visit to the Shire will also fill our time until the coming full moon.' Galdor nodded, astounded that the exodus from the River Lands had progressed so peacefully. 'And what of Taibreamh, melda heri (beloved Lady)?'

Elbereth's gaze flew across the waters towards the mist-shrouded lands and her smile grew larger, 'There has been some wonderful progress among the races there too, Galdor. Races once divided have opened their hearts to one another and the foundation for future dealings and possibly friendships has been laid. Elves, men and even dwarves are residing side by side, something that has not happened in many years... it is a promising future that awaits, now that imminent danger has been swept away.'

Elbereth turned and gave Galdor a tranquil look, her eyes glistening with hope, 'Although Darkness may yet return and seek foothold among these peace-loving folks once again, the opening of their hearts to one another and the strengthening of the bonds amongst the races will create a greater defense against evil than any the Valar are likely to exhibit in future.'

Elbereth Shares her Joy

She placed her hand on his chest, a warm glow piercing his bodice and flowing through his limbs, the joy of life filling him completely as he stood mute and in awe before her.

'It is a blessed time, sadron (loyal one), then even out of great tragedy, a shimmer of hope always survives to exalt in.'