2010 HASA Birthday Stories
Gilraen's 2010 Birthday Stories: 1. Messenger's doubt - by Nath
I raise my hand to draw my men's attention, yet before I give the order, I waver. I know this is the right decision. To go on would only lead us to founder among these fog-ridden rocks that bar our path, where every wave can bring unseen disaster. We should go back. We may reach the Havens – if my measure is not off – before the worst of winter's storms. Rest, heal our own hurts and Vingilotë's, try once more when the winds of the world are favourable again. Yet every time I return home, my resolve to attempt this again lessens.
It is only a moment of doubt, and even these men who know me well will not have seen it, will only think I pause to draw their attention fully.
"We go back," I say at last. We fail whether we continue on our path or turn back.
