The Blue Mountains

[Auriel Haevasawen]

They had reached the forest fence and at last would leave the Barrowdowns. They had in truth only been there a few days and yet it seemed as if months had passed in that enchanted place.

Radagast willingly followed while he pondered the greatness of their leader. He was secretly pleased to have come forth out of his hermit life for this. To be in Middle Earth at that moment was great indeed. They were setting forth to save Endereth and destroy the Beast. For once Radagast felt proud of himself. Perhaps it would be the death of him. Perhaps it would be the making of him. Perhaps when all was done he would return to being nothing more than a shepherd of creatures, waiting patiently for his ship to leave for the undying lands. He looked about him as they walked into the woods and found himself smiling where his companions, began to look set and grim. Scanning the wood about and not his feet beneath him upon the path enabled Radagast to notice her first. He gave Mattius a hearty slap upon his shoulder.
"Do not fear for Goldberry dear boy. It is she who has found us! Look yonder, one who is favoured by Manwe. Goldberry favours you also." He pointed over Mattius' shoulder and a little to the right. Sure enough, surrounded in a golden glow she approached them.

Although her mouth smiled her eyes were serious indeed. She stretched out a hand to Mattius. He took it.

"Come, time is more precious than you can imagine. I have kept watch over her but only you and your companions can be of help."
She pointed her slender arm in the direction of the Blue Mountains.