[Manardariel]

By midnight, they had alread made a great distance. Eorlyn rode along next to Rhys, her breath appearing in front of her like smoke. It had stopped snowing sometime ao, and by now the sky was almost clear. Stars twinkled overhead, and in front of them the moon shown like a perfect fingernail. "What a beautiful night!" the girl exclaimed, sighing. The conversation had died out, most of the company was deep in thought, pondering and remembering alike. She studied Almarien´s face, who was clearly with his children now; his tender, proud look gave him away so easily. There was Ros, riding alone, musing and frowning from time to time. Krosan, looking proud and the same time odly vulnerable.

"Unless I am mistaken, there is a story behind all of us, Storm. I wonder what yours is?"she told her horse. Storm neighed softly, swiftly walking alone. Her mane blew into Eorlyn´s face, like a caress. Eorlyn felt her eyes fill with tears, tears of sadness, of shame, of love for this tall, beautiful animal, shaken by this simple gesture of understanding.

Moments later, she noticed Rhys studying her. She wiped her eyes, smiling shyly.

Please, let him smile back. I need a smile in this night. A smile....