[Himaran]

The air was hot, and the choking darkness of Shelob's tunnel had been replaced by the ash-ridden air of the Morgul-Vale. Ripples of fire rose and fell in the distance, drawing wary glances from many among the company. Orodruin's bulk was partially visible over the Plains of Gorgoroth, a constant reminder of the threat they now faced. But to Dwali, their current predicament meant little compared to the death of his comrade. Dorim had stood beside him in the tunnels during that great battle, selfless and brave; true to his companion. Now, watching Grash and the others finish his burial, words could not describe the anguish of his inner soul.

Adding to his discomfort was the presence of Morgoroth, conversing with Bror nearby. Dwali knew that the elf had acted in his defense, and was at least partially responsible for his survival of the recent ordeal. Reluctantly, the dwarf had mentally come to terms with the warrior, although he maintained a front of resentment and disdain. Now, he decided, it was time to end that. With Dorim gone, he knew that rifts needed to be breached -- for in the next battle, there might not be anyone who risked their life to save his. Swallowing his native pride, the dwarf turned and walked towards his past nemisis.

As if on cue, Bror walked away, leaving Dwali the nail-biting decision of continuing with his confession. Aye, and that's Bror's mace... seems as if he's beat me to it. But there was nothing else to do. He approached the elf and spoke with as much dignity as he could muster; hoping that his dwarven comrade had already broken through the ice. "I too owe you an apology, Morgoroth. You acted bravely in the tunnels to defend myself and my countrymen, even though there has been nought but harsh words between us."

The elf looked up, as if preoccupied. "My, is this the same dwarf that was so hostile in the tower? They're are all the same, pleasant only if you happen to save them."

Dwali grimaced momentarily, but managed to hold his tongue. "I did not march over here to argue about which of our races is most stubborn and ignorant of the other. We have a long road ahead of us, and cannot afford to have primitive clan rivalries splitting us apart!" He spoke forcefully and with conviction, as if giving a rallying speech to a broken nation.

Morgoroth's eyes softened. "I never liked dwarves, especially those that saw elves in the same light. But you are right. I wish for no alliegence, with you or Bror. But you and your companion have proven that you have honor -- and there will be no further war between us." And Dwali had never felt so elated in his life.