To Vanquish the Shadows
By Priscilla Stafford
Author's Note: I have an apology to make! In Chapter 3, I mentioned that Danorath had returned from the land of Rohan! In the year 1300, Rohan didn't actually exist! The House of Eorl was not established until 2510! So I changed it so that he was spying in the lands of Rhovanian and Wold, which is in that general area. Once again, please forgive the error!
Well, here's chapter 4! I hope you enjoy it, I'm sorry if it ends sort of abruptly but I thought that the Council meeting should be in an altogether new chapter. Please review when finished!
Chapter 4: Radagast the Brown
Though it had grown dark, Radagast's ever watchful eyes found the Forgotten Hills to be a naturalist's delight. Herbs of all kinds seemed to blossom and grow everywhere. Radagast was extremely thankful he had decided to search these lands.
For whatever reason the Dunedain kept away from these peaceful mountains, Radagast found the place a perfectly wonderful place. He stopped to bend down to peer at some plant. An athelas plant, it was not often his eyes were blessed to behold the wondrous healing plant.
Radagast stood up quickly. His senses told him that something was not quite right. For the past three hundred years he had roamed parts of Middle Earth and learned to understand it's natural environment, from the birds whom he so loved, the animals, and the plants. At that moment, things were too silent. Only moments before he had heard the calls of a lark, now there was only silence.
The old man grasped his staff tightly in his hands. He was prepared for any danger though he would try to avoid it at any cost.
Without warning, two riders burst through the dense trees in his peripheral vision. Radagast swung to face them. Them proved to be two men, both young and strong. They were dressed in black with a cape of forest green. Radagast searched their faces and found something odd about them. Nothing ominous, but a slight shadow seemed to cover their souls. Mentally he shook his head. No, he must be wrong, it was not possible.
One of the riders spoke up. "Old man, it is not very safe for you to roam the Forgotten Hills."
Radagast cringed hearing the words 'old man'. How he sometimes disliked having to keep up the charade of hiding his true self. But the Valar knew what was best, he would never have openly argued with them on the subject. "I am perfectly capable to handle myself, young sirs. But I do appreciate your concern." He waited for them to leave, maybe then he would finally be left alone to continue his research.
Unfortunately, he didn't realize how insistent they would be. "I'm sorry, we cannot allow you to be on your own. May we escort you down the mountainside to wherever you are from?"
He could not believe how things were working out. Radagast tried to figure out who these people were. They did not look like any of the Dunedain from any of the three regions of Arthedain, Rhudaur, or Cardolan. If there were any similarities to be found in the two riders, they more resembled the people of Gondor. But why would anyone from Gondor travel this far? Radagast narrowed his eyes as he realized that things weren't quite right.
"I think an explanation is in order. You are not from the lands of Arthedain, Rhudaur, or Cardolan. In fact, I'm not sure if you are from Eriador. Who are you?"
The two men's expressions did not change but the dark haired man who had spoken first seemed to grimace. Radagast's question wasn't answered though as the dark haired man posed another question. "I would first like to ask why you are here in the first place, not many people travel up here in the North."
Radagast decided to let their rudeness pass. He would answer their question, since he doubted it would mean anything to them. "I have come here to study the land. My name is Radagast."
**********
Minnar opened his mouth in shock. This, this was Radagast? It couldn't be, here in the Forgotten Hills? He turned towards his friend. Danorath, too, was astonished. Minnar faced the old man once more and this time studied him closer. Dressed in a brown robe, he had the appearance of an old man though his hair was still dark brown, streaked with gray. His eyes were of the darkest brown and there was a certain quality about him which stated that he could not be judged by appearances.
The Eligere got over his astonishment. He had to make sure that this was not just some big mistake. "You can't possibly be Radagast the Brown, Aiwendil, Friend of Birds, maia of the Order of the Istari?"
It was the other's turn to look at them curiously. "Not many have heard or acknowledged the existence of the Istari. Now please, satisfy my curiosity. Who are you?"
Minnar leapt off his horse and strode in quick steps to the maia. Though Minnar might be considered a tall man, Radagast stood only a little shorter than him. The Shannaran bowed before him. "It is an honor to be in your presence. I am Minnar, of the House of Shannar. I am at your service."
Radagast cocked an eyebrow. "The House of Shannar? I'm afraid I'm not familiar with."
"If you would do the honor of following my friend and me, we will explain everything," said Minnar. Danorath had by that time followed Minnar's example and stood next to him.
Radagast considered the request. He had an inquisitive mind and could not help but want to learn more about the men. He was sure that what they would say would prove to be interesting.
**********
By the time Minnar and Danorath had escorted Radagast to Shannaran, they had filled him in with the brief history of Shannar and the Branded Ones. While he was being led to the home of Lord Palannar, Radagast was deep in thought. Their story sounded incredible, yet there was a ring of truth to it.
He would have to hear from this Elf, Lord Elrond was the name. Perhaps his friend the wizard Gandalf knew him. Gandalf had already met most of the Eldar left in Middle Earth. Radagast frowned. He knew the Istari were sent to unite and counsel the Free Peoples of Middle Earth but Gandalf seemed to have a special love to these people. Radagast just couldn't understand it. After arriving in Middle Earth he found it's nature a much more interesting subject for studying.
He found himself now before a large house and he was made to wait with a few guards while Minnar and Danorath entered a room. It was only a little while later that he was ushered into a small yet elaborately decorated room. And there stood Lord Palannar. Just laying his eyes upon him, Radagast found the man someone worthy of respect. Lordly in manner yet he still had the humility and gentleness needed in any ruler.
"Radagast the Brown, an honor it is to meet you."
Diplomacy was in high order here. Radagast bowed and said politely, "Lord Palannar, I must apologize for my being here. It was never my intention to break into the borders of the Forgotten Hills."
Palannar distractedly waved his hand. "It is of no importance. It is not common knowledge of our existence here. You may come and go from the Forgotten Hills as you will. I am sure you will respect our wishes in having our existence kept quiet though."
Radagast smiled. "You are a most gracious host."
The Lord of Shannaran returned his smile. "I must say though that I have ulterior motives in letting you stay. I would like to make of you a request."
Oh no, Radagast thought. Here it comes. Men were all alike, there was always a reason for any kindness done. Radagast sighed as he considered the other's words. A request, what kind of request would they ask of an Istari? After a few moments, he replied, "What kind of request might that be?"
Lord Palannar explained. "It has been about three hundred years since the Istari's arrival in Middle Earth. The reason, not many know. I have my reasons to believe that the maiar were sent here to aid the fight against evil. Many may say that Sauron has been destroyed, the Ring is lost, that there is nothing to worry about. But these facts we the Branded Ones know. Sauron may be gone, but the Ring is still out there somewhere. Evil is stirring once again. Dissensions between the lands of Arnor make it easy prey for any evil. These are perilous times.
"Tonight we will be holding a meeting, a Council meeting. Held every other year, we gather to discuss the fate of Middle Earth. Every other year, new information leads us to believe something is about to happen. Something is approaching, Eriador will not be safe and it is up to us to do something."
Here, Lord Palannar paused then continued. "Whatever decision is made tonight, we would like to know that a maia, said to be of the wisest, would help in the decision making."
Radagast bowed his head and shut his eyes, his mind in a whirl. The request had been made and it would be so simple to accept. He had been sent to Middle Earth to counsel and help people, then why was he being so hesitant. But he knew in his heart the reason why. He just could not care less. It sounded cold but that was the truth. Let the people of Middle Earth worry about their own problems. How he wished Gandalf was in his place.
Then he thought about these people, the Branded Ones. They too could just turn their backs on Middle Earth and live out their existence in peace. But here they were, trying to do what was best for their land and fight away the shadows threatening them. Maybe it was time for him to do what he was sent to do.
He looked up and found himself searching out for Minnar. There he was, on the right of Lord Palannar. His thoughts wandered back to the trip up the mountain. He had been fascinated by the young man. Minnar was a committed young man with an energy and passion for life. He loved his people, his devotion to the purpose of the Eligeres was quite obvious. Radagast looked into his eyes now and found a look of trust. Trust that Radagast would help them, trust that Radagast knew what to do. It was then that Radagast made up his mind.
He raised his chin and gave his answer. "Lord Palannar, I can assure you that I would like to help in any way I can."
Palannar did not openly show his joy, but his eyes lit up. "I thank you, Radagast the Brown."
Minnar on the other hand looked ready to burst out in joy. Radagast smiled. He hoped he had made the right decision.
**********
Minnar entered the Meeting House only minutes before the actual meeting began. Almost everyone had already gathered together, except the two people whom he had looked forward to seeing. One of them was the Wizard Radagast, who was probably still having a discussion with Lord Palannar. He was very glad that the maia had been persuaded to attend. He also wanted to ask him about his strange dream, he might have an answer to his questions.
And as for the other person, there she was. Minnar wondered if it was possible for his heart to have begun to beat faster upon seeing her. Gwendolyn moved towards the group of Gwenorans. Even her movements were graceful though most of her figure was covered by her robe. He wondered absent mindedly what she would look like in a dress. A green dress, one which would bring out the very brightness of her emerald eyes and have her blonde hair shine like gold.
Gwendolyn at that moment turned to face him, as if she had sensed his eyes on her. Minnar tried in vain to pretend he had been occupied with something else but only managed to look even more ruffled. The next thing he knew, she was standing right in front of him.
"Eligere Minnar, a pleasure to meet you. I did not expect to see you here." Her eyes were shined with laughter as she saw his discomfiture.
Minnar tried to collect his thoughts into some order. "A pleasure to see you again, too, my Lady." There was an awkward silence for a moment as Minnar struggled for something to say. At last he was able to look into Gwendolyn's face. His shyness dissolved as he said softly, "I'm sorry if I seem at a loss for words, your beauty seems to take my breath away." Instantly he regretted saying anything, she would now probably find him incredibly foolish.
Instead, she flushed a nice red. "You may be at a loss for words, but you give out compliments quite well. Thank you"
Minnar relaxed and was glad that she did not look offended. It was then that Danorath approached. "Minnar, introduce me to the lovely lady."
The Eligere answered, "I'm sorry Danorath, I didn't see you."
"I could understand that, how could you see me being in such company as this?"
Gwendolyn smiled and replied, "You must be Danorath, recently returned from Rhovania."
"My, she is as smart as she is beautiful!" Danorath winked.
Minnar tried to take his friend's words lightly. But for some reason a jealous flare went through his veins. He had only met this woman this morning, and he was already being possessive. A bit ashamed of himself, he mumbled an excuse and went into the inner room where the actual meeting would take place.
The room had already been set up for the meeting. In the center of the room was a large round table and carved into the wood was a map of Middle Earth. Carved with love by the best craftsmen of Shannaran, he was always fascinated by the beauty of the table. He was pleased to see that on the right side of Lord Palannar's chair was another one set aside for the wizard. He was looking forward to hearing any counsel to be given by the maia.
There was a tap on his shoulder and he was surprised to see it was Danorath. "What are you doing here?" Minnar asked.
"Just searching for a good friend of mine," Danorath replied. "Why did you take off like that? Don't tell me you feel intimidated by Gwendolyn," he joked.
Minnar sighed, frustrated. "Well, you seemed to be having such a nice time flirting with her, I decided to leave."
Danorath frowned seeing his friend's expressions. There was some silence as Danorath tried to figure out Minnar's strange mood. Then suddenly his whole face changed as he said in finality, "You're in love with her, aren't you?"
"I've only met her!"
"That doesn't mean anything!"
"I hardly know her," protested Minnar weakly.
Danorath just slyly looked at him. "But you have to admit that she is incredibly beautiful."
Minnar became silent in deep thought. Could he be really in love with her? Danorath was right, she was far beyond beautiful. And besides that, twice in their meetings she proved to be quick in mind and strong willed. She had to be if she had been elected a Consul.
But, was it really love? He was attracted to her, who wouldn't be. He would have to wait and see. "Danorath, promise not to say anything."
"So you are in love with her!"
"I don't know. I need time to think it out."
Danorath rolled his eyes. "I don't know what there is to think about. But I'll respect your wishes and will remain silent." He then added, "Only if you'll promise to tell me when you make up your mind! So that in the case you decide not marry her, I will!"
Minnar chuckled. "I promise." With that, the two clasped hands in a first handshake.
By that time, everyone had started filing into the room and began taking their seats. Lord Palannar and Radagast the Brown entered lastly and they, along with the Captains and the Consuls, sat down around the table. There were chairs lined up all along the walls of the room to provide for other Eligeres. Across from where Palannar sat was an empty place with the chair removed where an Eligere who wished to speak came forward. Minnar and Danorath chose seats so as to be able to face Palannar and Radagast.
**********
Author's Note: I hoped you liked the characterization of Radagast! There wasn't much information out on him though here are a few interesting things I found out about him during my research: *Radagast was included in the mission of the Istari at the insistence of Yavanna, the vala most concerned with plants and growing things. *Upon arriving in Middle-Earth, Radagast quickly lost interest in the mission of the Istari to bring hope and light to the beleaguered Free Peoples, and instead became concerned with the lore of birds and animals and plants. He took up residence at the tower of Rhosgobel, in the eaves of Mirkwood near the Carrock, and from there wandered the paths of the world, delighting in the natural world and coming into very little contact with elves or men. *A member of the Council of the Wise, Radagast does not seem to have often taken part in its meetings.
*There was also some mention about his name being associated with wild animals, but it is said he appears to have had a war-like nature rather than being a naturalist.
Author's Note: I have an apology to make! In Chapter 3, I mentioned that Danorath had returned from the land of Rohan! In the year 1300, Rohan didn't actually exist! The House of Eorl was not established until 2510! So I changed it so that he was spying in the lands of Rhovanian and Wold, which is in that general area. Once again, please forgive the error!
Well, here's chapter 4! I hope you enjoy it, I'm sorry if it ends sort of abruptly but I thought that the Council meeting should be in an altogether new chapter. Please review when finished!
Chapter 4: Radagast the Brown
Though it had grown dark, Radagast's ever watchful eyes found the Forgotten Hills to be a naturalist's delight. Herbs of all kinds seemed to blossom and grow everywhere. Radagast was extremely thankful he had decided to search these lands.
For whatever reason the Dunedain kept away from these peaceful mountains, Radagast found the place a perfectly wonderful place. He stopped to bend down to peer at some plant. An athelas plant, it was not often his eyes were blessed to behold the wondrous healing plant.
Radagast stood up quickly. His senses told him that something was not quite right. For the past three hundred years he had roamed parts of Middle Earth and learned to understand it's natural environment, from the birds whom he so loved, the animals, and the plants. At that moment, things were too silent. Only moments before he had heard the calls of a lark, now there was only silence.
The old man grasped his staff tightly in his hands. He was prepared for any danger though he would try to avoid it at any cost.
Without warning, two riders burst through the dense trees in his peripheral vision. Radagast swung to face them. Them proved to be two men, both young and strong. They were dressed in black with a cape of forest green. Radagast searched their faces and found something odd about them. Nothing ominous, but a slight shadow seemed to cover their souls. Mentally he shook his head. No, he must be wrong, it was not possible.
One of the riders spoke up. "Old man, it is not very safe for you to roam the Forgotten Hills."
Radagast cringed hearing the words 'old man'. How he sometimes disliked having to keep up the charade of hiding his true self. But the Valar knew what was best, he would never have openly argued with them on the subject. "I am perfectly capable to handle myself, young sirs. But I do appreciate your concern." He waited for them to leave, maybe then he would finally be left alone to continue his research.
Unfortunately, he didn't realize how insistent they would be. "I'm sorry, we cannot allow you to be on your own. May we escort you down the mountainside to wherever you are from?"
He could not believe how things were working out. Radagast tried to figure out who these people were. They did not look like any of the Dunedain from any of the three regions of Arthedain, Rhudaur, or Cardolan. If there were any similarities to be found in the two riders, they more resembled the people of Gondor. But why would anyone from Gondor travel this far? Radagast narrowed his eyes as he realized that things weren't quite right.
"I think an explanation is in order. You are not from the lands of Arthedain, Rhudaur, or Cardolan. In fact, I'm not sure if you are from Eriador. Who are you?"
The two men's expressions did not change but the dark haired man who had spoken first seemed to grimace. Radagast's question wasn't answered though as the dark haired man posed another question. "I would first like to ask why you are here in the first place, not many people travel up here in the North."
Radagast decided to let their rudeness pass. He would answer their question, since he doubted it would mean anything to them. "I have come here to study the land. My name is Radagast."
**********
Minnar opened his mouth in shock. This, this was Radagast? It couldn't be, here in the Forgotten Hills? He turned towards his friend. Danorath, too, was astonished. Minnar faced the old man once more and this time studied him closer. Dressed in a brown robe, he had the appearance of an old man though his hair was still dark brown, streaked with gray. His eyes were of the darkest brown and there was a certain quality about him which stated that he could not be judged by appearances.
The Eligere got over his astonishment. He had to make sure that this was not just some big mistake. "You can't possibly be Radagast the Brown, Aiwendil, Friend of Birds, maia of the Order of the Istari?"
It was the other's turn to look at them curiously. "Not many have heard or acknowledged the existence of the Istari. Now please, satisfy my curiosity. Who are you?"
Minnar leapt off his horse and strode in quick steps to the maia. Though Minnar might be considered a tall man, Radagast stood only a little shorter than him. The Shannaran bowed before him. "It is an honor to be in your presence. I am Minnar, of the House of Shannar. I am at your service."
Radagast cocked an eyebrow. "The House of Shannar? I'm afraid I'm not familiar with."
"If you would do the honor of following my friend and me, we will explain everything," said Minnar. Danorath had by that time followed Minnar's example and stood next to him.
Radagast considered the request. He had an inquisitive mind and could not help but want to learn more about the men. He was sure that what they would say would prove to be interesting.
**********
By the time Minnar and Danorath had escorted Radagast to Shannaran, they had filled him in with the brief history of Shannar and the Branded Ones. While he was being led to the home of Lord Palannar, Radagast was deep in thought. Their story sounded incredible, yet there was a ring of truth to it.
He would have to hear from this Elf, Lord Elrond was the name. Perhaps his friend the wizard Gandalf knew him. Gandalf had already met most of the Eldar left in Middle Earth. Radagast frowned. He knew the Istari were sent to unite and counsel the Free Peoples of Middle Earth but Gandalf seemed to have a special love to these people. Radagast just couldn't understand it. After arriving in Middle Earth he found it's nature a much more interesting subject for studying.
He found himself now before a large house and he was made to wait with a few guards while Minnar and Danorath entered a room. It was only a little while later that he was ushered into a small yet elaborately decorated room. And there stood Lord Palannar. Just laying his eyes upon him, Radagast found the man someone worthy of respect. Lordly in manner yet he still had the humility and gentleness needed in any ruler.
"Radagast the Brown, an honor it is to meet you."
Diplomacy was in high order here. Radagast bowed and said politely, "Lord Palannar, I must apologize for my being here. It was never my intention to break into the borders of the Forgotten Hills."
Palannar distractedly waved his hand. "It is of no importance. It is not common knowledge of our existence here. You may come and go from the Forgotten Hills as you will. I am sure you will respect our wishes in having our existence kept quiet though."
Radagast smiled. "You are a most gracious host."
The Lord of Shannaran returned his smile. "I must say though that I have ulterior motives in letting you stay. I would like to make of you a request."
Oh no, Radagast thought. Here it comes. Men were all alike, there was always a reason for any kindness done. Radagast sighed as he considered the other's words. A request, what kind of request would they ask of an Istari? After a few moments, he replied, "What kind of request might that be?"
Lord Palannar explained. "It has been about three hundred years since the Istari's arrival in Middle Earth. The reason, not many know. I have my reasons to believe that the maiar were sent here to aid the fight against evil. Many may say that Sauron has been destroyed, the Ring is lost, that there is nothing to worry about. But these facts we the Branded Ones know. Sauron may be gone, but the Ring is still out there somewhere. Evil is stirring once again. Dissensions between the lands of Arnor make it easy prey for any evil. These are perilous times.
"Tonight we will be holding a meeting, a Council meeting. Held every other year, we gather to discuss the fate of Middle Earth. Every other year, new information leads us to believe something is about to happen. Something is approaching, Eriador will not be safe and it is up to us to do something."
Here, Lord Palannar paused then continued. "Whatever decision is made tonight, we would like to know that a maia, said to be of the wisest, would help in the decision making."
Radagast bowed his head and shut his eyes, his mind in a whirl. The request had been made and it would be so simple to accept. He had been sent to Middle Earth to counsel and help people, then why was he being so hesitant. But he knew in his heart the reason why. He just could not care less. It sounded cold but that was the truth. Let the people of Middle Earth worry about their own problems. How he wished Gandalf was in his place.
Then he thought about these people, the Branded Ones. They too could just turn their backs on Middle Earth and live out their existence in peace. But here they were, trying to do what was best for their land and fight away the shadows threatening them. Maybe it was time for him to do what he was sent to do.
He looked up and found himself searching out for Minnar. There he was, on the right of Lord Palannar. His thoughts wandered back to the trip up the mountain. He had been fascinated by the young man. Minnar was a committed young man with an energy and passion for life. He loved his people, his devotion to the purpose of the Eligeres was quite obvious. Radagast looked into his eyes now and found a look of trust. Trust that Radagast would help them, trust that Radagast knew what to do. It was then that Radagast made up his mind.
He raised his chin and gave his answer. "Lord Palannar, I can assure you that I would like to help in any way I can."
Palannar did not openly show his joy, but his eyes lit up. "I thank you, Radagast the Brown."
Minnar on the other hand looked ready to burst out in joy. Radagast smiled. He hoped he had made the right decision.
**********
Minnar entered the Meeting House only minutes before the actual meeting began. Almost everyone had already gathered together, except the two people whom he had looked forward to seeing. One of them was the Wizard Radagast, who was probably still having a discussion with Lord Palannar. He was very glad that the maia had been persuaded to attend. He also wanted to ask him about his strange dream, he might have an answer to his questions.
And as for the other person, there she was. Minnar wondered if it was possible for his heart to have begun to beat faster upon seeing her. Gwendolyn moved towards the group of Gwenorans. Even her movements were graceful though most of her figure was covered by her robe. He wondered absent mindedly what she would look like in a dress. A green dress, one which would bring out the very brightness of her emerald eyes and have her blonde hair shine like gold.
Gwendolyn at that moment turned to face him, as if she had sensed his eyes on her. Minnar tried in vain to pretend he had been occupied with something else but only managed to look even more ruffled. The next thing he knew, she was standing right in front of him.
"Eligere Minnar, a pleasure to meet you. I did not expect to see you here." Her eyes were shined with laughter as she saw his discomfiture.
Minnar tried to collect his thoughts into some order. "A pleasure to see you again, too, my Lady." There was an awkward silence for a moment as Minnar struggled for something to say. At last he was able to look into Gwendolyn's face. His shyness dissolved as he said softly, "I'm sorry if I seem at a loss for words, your beauty seems to take my breath away." Instantly he regretted saying anything, she would now probably find him incredibly foolish.
Instead, she flushed a nice red. "You may be at a loss for words, but you give out compliments quite well. Thank you"
Minnar relaxed and was glad that she did not look offended. It was then that Danorath approached. "Minnar, introduce me to the lovely lady."
The Eligere answered, "I'm sorry Danorath, I didn't see you."
"I could understand that, how could you see me being in such company as this?"
Gwendolyn smiled and replied, "You must be Danorath, recently returned from Rhovania."
"My, she is as smart as she is beautiful!" Danorath winked.
Minnar tried to take his friend's words lightly. But for some reason a jealous flare went through his veins. He had only met this woman this morning, and he was already being possessive. A bit ashamed of himself, he mumbled an excuse and went into the inner room where the actual meeting would take place.
The room had already been set up for the meeting. In the center of the room was a large round table and carved into the wood was a map of Middle Earth. Carved with love by the best craftsmen of Shannaran, he was always fascinated by the beauty of the table. He was pleased to see that on the right side of Lord Palannar's chair was another one set aside for the wizard. He was looking forward to hearing any counsel to be given by the maia.
There was a tap on his shoulder and he was surprised to see it was Danorath. "What are you doing here?" Minnar asked.
"Just searching for a good friend of mine," Danorath replied. "Why did you take off like that? Don't tell me you feel intimidated by Gwendolyn," he joked.
Minnar sighed, frustrated. "Well, you seemed to be having such a nice time flirting with her, I decided to leave."
Danorath frowned seeing his friend's expressions. There was some silence as Danorath tried to figure out Minnar's strange mood. Then suddenly his whole face changed as he said in finality, "You're in love with her, aren't you?"
"I've only met her!"
"That doesn't mean anything!"
"I hardly know her," protested Minnar weakly.
Danorath just slyly looked at him. "But you have to admit that she is incredibly beautiful."
Minnar became silent in deep thought. Could he be really in love with her? Danorath was right, she was far beyond beautiful. And besides that, twice in their meetings she proved to be quick in mind and strong willed. She had to be if she had been elected a Consul.
But, was it really love? He was attracted to her, who wouldn't be. He would have to wait and see. "Danorath, promise not to say anything."
"So you are in love with her!"
"I don't know. I need time to think it out."
Danorath rolled his eyes. "I don't know what there is to think about. But I'll respect your wishes and will remain silent." He then added, "Only if you'll promise to tell me when you make up your mind! So that in the case you decide not marry her, I will!"
Minnar chuckled. "I promise." With that, the two clasped hands in a first handshake.
By that time, everyone had started filing into the room and began taking their seats. Lord Palannar and Radagast the Brown entered lastly and they, along with the Captains and the Consuls, sat down around the table. There were chairs lined up all along the walls of the room to provide for other Eligeres. Across from where Palannar sat was an empty place with the chair removed where an Eligere who wished to speak came forward. Minnar and Danorath chose seats so as to be able to face Palannar and Radagast.
**********
Author's Note: I hoped you liked the characterization of Radagast! There wasn't much information out on him though here are a few interesting things I found out about him during my research: *Radagast was included in the mission of the Istari at the insistence of Yavanna, the vala most concerned with plants and growing things. *Upon arriving in Middle-Earth, Radagast quickly lost interest in the mission of the Istari to bring hope and light to the beleaguered Free Peoples, and instead became concerned with the lore of birds and animals and plants. He took up residence at the tower of Rhosgobel, in the eaves of Mirkwood near the Carrock, and from there wandered the paths of the world, delighting in the natural world and coming into very little contact with elves or men. *A member of the Council of the Wise, Radagast does not seem to have often taken part in its meetings.
*There was also some mention about his name being associated with wild animals, but it is said he appears to have had a war-like nature rather than being a naturalist.