One side of the gate opened slightly and a lone elf soldier stepped out into the cold, wet night air, and the river's thunder. Anest had no doubt that although there were no soldiers to be seen on the battlements, that arrows were trained on them nonetheless in case anything were out of the ordinary. Though they were among allies it was not a comforting thought.
"Hail, captain Dorain," the Bridgemaster shouted. "I count many elves missing from your company. Belloc, his apprentice, and Brogan of Brand are known to us, but this woman," he indicated Lily, "we do not know, and she is clearly neither elf nor human, nor is she of any familiar race. Will you not make explanation?"
At a word from Jerra, the company dismounted. Dorain gave a rapid accounting of her activities, but the Bridgemaster remained suspicious of Lily, saying at last, "Dorain, I doubt not your word. But according to our laws, this does not suffice."
"Nevertheless," replied Dorain in an iron tone, "she is Anest's wife, and my friend, and she is in great danger from the enemy. In the name of simple decency, do not refuse her."
"Bridgemaster Perrin," said Belloc, coming forward, "you know me well. I know that it is more than simple caution which prevents your welcome. Responsibility for this girl's presence is mine, and I allow you to hold me accountable. Does this suffice?"