Sad Tidings

After a few minutes, Aldarion came back alone. We looked questioningly at him.

"His grandfather, Peregrin, has died," Aldarion spoke softly. "He asked to be alone for a few moments."

"Oh no!" I whispered, tearing up. Having met Pippin several times, it was hard to think of such a wonderful, lively hobbit as no longer living. "When?"

Aldarion looked away, and I could see tears on his face as well. Elanor was sobbing quietly, Vila with her. "He died a few days before my brother and I left Minas Tirith, we stayed long enough for the burial, then departed."

We sat in silence, filled with sorrow and grief. Elanor spoke up. "My grandfather Merry, is he still alive?"

"He yet lived when we departed, but he is old, and was much grieved over his dear friends passing. Do not hope to find him there when you arrive."

Her head bowed again in sorrow, and Vila wrapped her arms around the young hobbit, comforting her. We heard footsteps approaching, and looking up, we saw Samdo walking towards us, his eyes red from weeping. Elanor jumped up from her seat on the rock, ran, and wrapped him in a comforting hug. He let his head rest on her shoulder, crying unabashedly. We gathered around, offering our comfort. Together, Aldarion, Vila and I sang a song of parting.

When the cold of winter comes

Starless night will cover day

In the veiling of the sun

We will walk in bitter rain

But in dreams

I can hear your name

And in dreams

We will meet again

When the seas and mountains fall

And we come, to end of days

In the dark I hear a call

Calling me there,

I will go there

And back again

~Lady Rosriel