[elf-girl-63]

Pio had read her correctly but it was good of her not to say anything much. It was not the right time so speak of her past. It never really was.

"So the leaves in Eryn Lasgalen shine again. That is most probably the case but I would still not wander there. Leaves are part of the wood but the elves, well, they can move as they please. It is only when the fall, do leaves move."

She thought about the other elf's comments on Celeborn. "I had no desire to visit Lord Celeborn. I knew him in Lorien and no doubt to see me once more would sadden him. I would fear he misses his Lady and am surprised he has not left sooner."

She nodded in thanks as Pio refilled her mug and laid the baby girl next to her brother so both could take comfort and warmth from each other as they slept.

"I was to go on this quest... but I decided against it. I wasn't sure I would be useful and to be honest, wanted to spend more time at the Inn. I will indeed be a guest at the party and am looking forward to it. Mayhap, you will be telling some stories Mistress Pio, for that would be good entertainment. I'm sure your husband has some to tell by the looks of it as well."

She looked at Pio and there was a twinkle in her [Nuinyulma's] eye. "I had thought of you as a quiet one Nuinyulma but perhaps I was wrong! There shall be a fair bit of story-telling no doubt but perhaps more from others than myself. I hope you will give us some tales and some songs, since you are of Lothlorien it is to be expected."

"And you are of ages older than me or indeed anyone else in this inn, I hope you shall give us some. It is to be expected."

Both elves laughed merrily together and Nuinyulma felt a weight lifted from her heart and shoulders. The two babies stirred in their sleep and they looked guiltily at each other.

"It is a good job that I am not with my people at this moment," whispered Nuinyulma, "for we are supposed to be calm and wise."

"It is true," Pio whispered back, "but for now, we are in the land of the hobbits and laughing is one of their favourite occupations."

They both sipped their drinks once more and thought of the other.

Nuinyulma liked Pio. She was a young elf at heart though her age hid some sadness. It seemed that the arrival of the twins had renewed her faith in not only Middle-Earth but in life itself. Unless, she had always been like that.