[Child of the 7th Age]

Branda scrambled frantically to try and tend to all the injured hobbits. He had no idea what was happening with Bullroarer and the others who were still out fighting the dogs. His attention was rivetted to those who lay before him.

Branda quickly acknowledged that there was no way he could handle four wounded hobbits totally by himself. He'd asked Dinodas to come join him and tend to those less seriously hurt. Having someone to do the simple bandaging, and even to bring food and water to the wounded, was a tremendous help.

Gaddy was indeed in the best shape, with only a few minor leg wounds. Robin and Daffodyl had more serious cuts and slashes, both on their bodies and faces. Robin also seemed to be in a shocked and dazed state. Yet, even here, with a little luck and a good rest, Branda was fairly certain both girls would pull through.

It was Emerald who most worried him. He spent the lion's share of his time with her. The girl had lost so much blood that she was as pale as the snows of winter, her body as cold as the ground on which she lay. She had grievous wounds on her body and head.

At Branda's direction, Dinodas built a blazing fire under the ledge of the cliff, hanging additional tarps to hold out the most bitter weather. Then, the Stoor took some of his most precious herb, called Kingsfoil or athelas, crushing and boiling its leaves with the snow water. He applied this tincture to the wounds of the hobbits, and decided to place their bodies close to the campfire, since it was warmer there than in the wagon. He wrapped Emerald in several blankets, and placed hot stones, also sealed inside a thin leather pouch near her body in an effort to drive the chill away.

There was no question that they would have to stay here for the night. The scouts who'd gone ahead would have no idea what had happened to the main party. That was unfortunate. But to push on at this moment would mean certain death for Emerald, as well as to increase the risk for Robin and even Daffodyl. No matter what Carl, or Giles, or Autumn thought, they did not dare to leave immediately.

Branda feared that tonight would be the critical point for Emerald, the time that would decide whether the girl lived or died. He felt a shudder run through his body as he looked upon her sweet young face. My own daughter Peony will look like this one day. Let my hands be skilled to save her and return her safe to her kin.