[Feanor of the Peredhil]

Watching the retreating back of she who called herself Gudryn, Saeryn sat up with a wince and looked at the pile of clothing. From this angle, should could not tell what they were, but, she thought, I do like the color. She smiled, pushing back her covers daintily. It would not do to muss the fine bandage-work Bethberry has done on my hand. Slowly, to avoid unnecessary pangs, Saeryn slid her legs out and pivited on her hip, sliding carefully into a seated position with her unshod feet on the floor. She paused, holding her aching head in her hands. For a pretty room, this certainly does feel like a cage. Perhaps Gudryn is right... perhaps once familiar faces will help.

Reaching to the clothes on the table beside her, Saeryn shook out the pretty crimson fabric. A gown, she noticed. She glanced down at her breeches in slight surprise. Why in the world am I wearing men's garb? She thought, although she found no upset with the notion. Pulling off her soiled breeches and unlacing her blouse, Saeryn found a bowl with a soft cloth and some water. Carefully avoiding the bandanges, she cleaned herself slowly, finding every dirt mark and spot of dried blood. Feeling refreshed and ready for adventure, she pulled on the gown. How did they find one to fit so perfectly? she wondered, unaware that it had come from her own bags. Tying the long ribbon that hugged the soft cloth to her waist, Saeryn tried to catch a glimpse of herself in the window. Cringing at the foolish contortion of her aching ribs, she told herself that vanity was wrong anyhow. Leaving the soft slippers on her bed, she walked to the door with a tender limp. Her feet held no injury, but still, it hurt to walk.

As she made her way down the hall, Saeryn took in her views of everything. She walked carefully to avoid splinters. A picture came to her of a small girl playing.

In her left hand was a well-worn stuffed horse. In her right was a doll. She sang tunelessly but sweetly as the two traversed merrily through a world that only she could see. Loud song interrupted her play, making her turn quickly on her bare feet. She cried out, feeling a small splinter enter into the soft part of her toe. She ran softly to the door, seeing it open before her. "Mama," she cried. "I've a spwinter in my toe. Mama it hurts vewy much." Tears ran down her cheeks as the most beautiful woman she had ever seen swept her into her arms.

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The common room had fallen silent as the soft sounds of unshod running feet met their ears. A communal breath was drawn as the door flew open, revealing Saeryn with her long curls falling beyond her shoulders and her skirts swishing beneath her. Unseeing eyes released silent tears as she stood alone in the doorway.