<b>Pegawen could tell that Lotharn was concerned as he returned, and was grateful as Timberlane spoke. “We've been safe,” she assured him, pointing towards Allassiel and Thorgan. “I know my cousin, she is always watchful, no matter what else she's doing.”</b><br/><br/>“<b>That's because I have to keep you safe,” Allassiel retorted, though her grin showed no malice. This set the cousins off on a teasing rant of each other that ended with Allassiel reaching over to ruffle Pegawen's hair before announcing, “It's probably best that we leave soon then and make what ride we can before nightfall.”</b><br/><br/><b>With that announcement, the hobbits scrambled to get ready as Pegawen made sure the packs were secure while Allassiel brushed the ground to obscure their stopping. Satisfied, the group mounted up and was on its way once more. <br/>
<br/>
They pushed ahead, the spectre of Timberlane's news driving them forward and it was well into dusk before they stopped again for the night. </b>