Dream of the Black Sword by Flora-lass

Epilogue

Inspired by the April instadrabbling session four word prompt: 'running, water, morning, thought'.

Gwindor stayed close by, for as long as was needed to ensure Beleg's safety, and then rested at a more discreet distance, keeping watch and enjoying the warmth of the sun on his face. So, finally, Beleg freed Túrin, who did no more than flinch at the sight of the approaching blade. But then it was Túrin’s turn to weep, as he flung himself into Beleg's arms and bitterly lamented the loss of all their companions. And Beleg wept again, as he told of Andróg's final, noble deeds, without which he should never have escaped from Amon Rûdh. 

But then Túrin asked forgiveness for his past failings, and made many promises - while Beleg only hushed him and stroked his hair. ‘For I know you well, beloved; we will speak of all this more calmly at another time, when you are no longer so pleased to see me,’ he said, fondly. So that storm too subsided, as the morning passed; and once they were simply talking quietly together, Gwindor thought it good to approach with water.

‘I am sorry to disturb you,’ he said, ‘but you should drink, son of Húrin, for you have endured much and slept long.’ He looked at Beleg. ‘And perhaps he should eat, also?’

Túrin accepted the water gratefully, though with some surprise. ‘Who are you?’ he asked.

‘An escaped thrall only, whom Beleg met and comforted,’ Gwindor answered.

‘He is Gwindor, a lord of Nargothrond, in truth,’ Beleg said, firmly. ‘He has endured far more than either of us - and yet he is a far better healer in this moment than I! For he thinks of your comfort, while I can only gaze at you in wonder, so far do I forget myself. And he helped in your rescue, and has given me great comfort, too.’

‘Then I am very glad to know you,’ said Túrin. ‘And I thank you for your care of us both. Come, sit with us, if you will. For I think we are done with tears, for this day at least.’

‘And soon we must set out, in order that you may find your own reunion,’ Beleg added. ‘But first I will tend your arm again. And any other hurts that either of you bear.’

So Gwindor sat with them, and they shared lembas together. Túrin grimaced at first, but then received his portion without complaint, under Beleg's watchful eye; while Gwindor again felt his courage and strength renewed, and looked forward to the journey home. He dared, at last, to hope that Finduilas would come running to meet him, and that they would dance together once more, beneath Lord Finrod’s trees.