"I forget sometimes that Elves heal more quickly than Dwarves," Kili offered by way of explanation, but the truth was that had this been anyone else, Elf or otherwise, he'd not have been half so concerned.

"It does make me feel a little better," he allowed, settling beside her as near as he dared, close enough to grasp her hand should boldness seize him, but with space enough that still she might comfortably draw away. The heart of her was easily enough read, but her Elvish self-composure remained a mystery.

"Might you want company while you rest?" he asked, his smile faint but self-indulgent as he watched her, clearly teasing simply for the sake of it. "I could fluff your pillows."