Chapter Twenty
The Ties that Bind
Hilgur walked through the trees of Melaquenya with his eyes averted. The last thing he wanted was for anyone to recognize him.
He knew it was foolish. How many other dwarven men visited the Light Elves’ wood? Still, he couldn’t bear to see the looks on their faces as he passed. Everyone knew his wife had lain with the human emissary from Belierumar and borne his son. What in the First Father’s name must they think of him?
The green grass brushed at his boots as he trod the forest paths, working his way toward the isle that lay in the heart of Melaquenya. If only Paloda had taken up residence somewhere near the border of the forest... But he doubted the precious child who would go on to father the saviors of the Free Races had ever left the small island
