Many Journeys by Elleth

Betimes

Nerdanel, Fëanor and a promise.

"How far is it to Tirion?"
"Two days. We will ride without pause."
"I cannot go so fast, for I am tired. I fear, Fëanáro, that your first son shall be born in the wilds, and his father shall be the midwife." A flutter in those words belied her outward calm.

Silence. He was pale, his eyes too wide, his lips pressed together. Her fingers brushed his hand; reassurance by touch; but he jerked the reins and the contact was broken.

"I will not lose you, too!"
"Do not fear, love. I shall live to give you many children."

But after... a shadow.

Chapter End Notes

betimes bih-TYMZ, adverb:
1. Early; in good time; before it is late.
2. At times; on occasion.
3. [Archaic] Soon; in a short time.

Betimes is from Middle English bitimes, from bi, "by" + time, "time."

(from www.dictionary.com)