[Mithadan]

The ascent up the slope was difficult. Often the Man had to pause and descend to seek another set of hand and foot holds before moving on up the mountain. Then, after much labour, he reached a shelf on the slope which he discovered was the remnant of the path to the summit. He proceeded carefully along the ledge, at times climbing over crumbled portions of the way, until he at last reached the summit. It was flat and slightly depressed like a shallow bowl. He moved inward a bit until he found a rock on which he could sit. He rested there for a moment, catching his breath and taking in the expansive view of the seas surrounding the island.

As Mithadan sat, pondering the many kings and queens who had stood here before him, a voice came from behind him. "Man." Without turning, he responded, "Angara."

"Welcome to my eyrie," said the dragon. "I must remember to crumble that road, lest any of the Hobbrim attempt what you have and injure themselves. You could have found a less foolish way to speak with me if you wished my company."

"I wanted some peace and solitude," replied Mithadan. "I have the need for some quiet thought."

"Do the others know that you have attempted to break your neck this way?" asked the Wyrm. Mithadan did not answer. "I see," continued Angara. "And for how long may I expect your company?" The Man remained silent. The dragon stepped forward to stand beside him and twisted her long neck until she looked into his face. "Well, I go to see to my children for a time. I will return shortly if you would like to speak. If you like, I will bring you back some lunch?"

"Thank you," answered Mithadan simply. The Dragon tilted her head in a serpentine shrug. Then she unfurled her wings and leaped into the air only to disappear over the edge of the sheer drop towards the beach below.

Mithadan pulled up his hood to shade his face from the sun. Then he settled in to ponder the odd course that his life had taken. With a sad expression on his face, he drew out Piosenniel's knife and examined the blade in the bright sun. "Like you," he muttered, "my actions have had two edges..."

[ November 18, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ]