Melost was amused at the stares he and Thelain drew as they rode in to camp hard on the heels of Arthain. He dismounted and followed Arthain into the tent. Thelian and Dorlas waited outside, while inside Arthain presented Melost to his captain.
"My lord, this is Melost, the Elven high king's messenger and close kinsman. Melost, Lord Isildur." Melost stepped forward and bowed his head in respect as he presented a sealed scroll to Isildur. Isildur moved away from the table as he slowly unrolled the missive. He quickly scanned the contents, then turned back to them. "Arthain, we are to meet with Gil-Galad's army as they move toward Imladris. They will lead us in." He looked at Melost appraisingly. "The high king's kinsman, eh? Does that earn you preferential treatment?" Melost's back stiffened as he replied. "Nay, lord. It never has."
Arthain moved forward quickly, aware of Melost's temper. "My lord, I ask leave to return with my squire to the camp of Gil-Galad with Melost. I was chosen to act as his guard, after all." Isildur looked up, then nodded assent. "Re-join us at Imladris." He then dismissed them and they left, eager to be away.
|