[VanimaEdhel]

*****Rhûn Nation*****

Lovek and Ulwyte were separated, and they moved quickly through the day. The scenery did not change. When they stopped that night, Kasteni took Lovek aside.

"Lovek, your actions were very unnecessary today," Kasteni said sternly, "I am disappointed. I thought that someone with your experience would know better."

"I know, Advisor, and I apologize," Lovek said, looking down at the ground, angry that he was confronted, "But, if I may speak openly, this Ulwyte, he is not trained. He is unskilled. He should not be here with us."

"Ulwyte was chosen because he does have skill," Kasteni said, patiently, "This is an important mission, and the Great Captain would not choose just anybody. There is skill there, even if you cannot see it."

"I have been training young men for over ten years, Advisor, and I see no patience or obedience in Ulwyte," Lovek said, getting desperate, "I would see what advantage there is to having him along with us and, I apologize Advisor, but I see none."

"Do not speak of this again. And do be a bit more...civil," Kasteni scolded. He turned and walked away.

Lovek saw Kasteni go to speak with Ulwyte, and saw Ulwyte's face go from curious, to surprised, to frustrated, and finally landing on a guilty expression. Ulwyte slunk dejectedly back to the fire after Kasteni was finished with him. He approached Lovek.

"I suppose Kasteni has had a word with you as well?" Ulwyte asked.

"Yes, and I suppose we must tolerate each other, although I still do not see the point in your presence," Lovek replied.

"Well, I hope that I may prove myself on a later date," Ulwyte said bitterly.

Lovek held out his hand, and Ulwyte shook it.

**********

The company set off early the next day. Ulwyte and Lovek did not bicker at all that day, and the day passed uneventfully. They stopped at about midday for a brief rest, then they took to the road again.

"Advisor," Ulwyte called ahead to Kasteni, "Where are we making for now?"

Lovek resisted the urge into rolling his eyes and sighing at Ulwyte's inexperienced question. He should have been able to know where they were going by the root. Lovek, however, listened to see if Kasteni would not this as well, or whether he would just tell Ulwyte and leave the issue alone...