[Laiquendi]

Joel pointed to a northern area on the map, and laughed. Lalaith almost pushed him off the chair while laughing as well. She recalled a distant memory of those mountains. In the time when Sauron had been banished from Mirkwood. With a more solemn look on his face he pointed to the north woods. Lalaith sighed and shook her head.

“Nay, we cannot pass through there. Not all the orcs of this land are gone, and there is a large camp there. How I would love to dispose of their filthy so called bodies, but alas they’re numbers are too large. Elessar knows and I believe he has a plan in mind.”

“As long as it doesn’t have anything to do with the dead, then I’m happy.” Joel answered

“Nay, it doesn’t. And you’re scared of the dead? They are but a distant remainder and memory of the past.”

“Not scared. How many times have we had to set up camp on the dead marshes? And did I not walk the paths of the Dead? Not scared. Just a little anxious. Anyway ‘tis the others I would worry about. He might be left with half a force if it involves the dead.”

Lalaith nodded. She knew all to well that not many, even in the service of Gondor, wanted dealings with the dead. They had all witnessed the destruction with Sauron, and feared seeing loved ones again. She pointed to a mountain pass.

“Here, this should be free from the elements even in winter. There is a well sheltered path and we can see the forest from it most of the time. If they make a move we’ll see it. It’s relatively easy to pass through, only a few thieves and murderers hide out there. And if they cause any trouble one elf is too much for them.” She smiled “Let alone an elf and a top ranger in his Majesties guard”

He grinned and almost pushed her off her seat, leaning over he happily grinned.
“You forget my dear friend that you are in his Majesties guard as well. And he trusts you more in Middle-Earth than he trusts his own sons!”

Lalaith laughed as his head flopped on the table. She removed the drink from his hand and laughed. Mortals! She thought Still unable to handle they’re drinks.
She smiled fondly at the ranger. He had grown up around her and she had even taught him to fight, and now he was one of the best in the land. He’s right A part of her said. And you know that’s its true. Estel trusts you more than anyone, so don’t let him down. She sighed as she finished her drink. Sitting back she glanced around the inn. She wiped the blood off her face as best as she could as it was still flowing freely. Thoughts still rushed around her head, as she spoke aloud. “I have never let him down. And I never will!”