Disclaimer: I do not own the works of J.R.R. Tolkien. I greatly enjoy his writings and I like to muse about what might have befallen the characters he created. The characters not created by Tolkien are mine. I wrote this for personal pleasure only and not for personal gain. It is intended as a tribute to JRRT.

Double drabble, a birthday gift for NierielRaina


Redhorn Pass

When the Orcs ambushed, Erestor rode at the rear. He battled with pent-up control. We are losing ground, they are succeeding in scattering us. Celebrían fought also, having snatched a slaughtered warrior's sword. He tried unsuccessfully to reach her. Commending her spirit he heeded her strike down one of the attackers.

When he became conscious again he was only slightly wounded. A headache and a painful lump at the back of his head told him what had likely happened. He should have worn armour and a helmet! With rage he registered fallen friends and slain horses, all valued companions. He did not see the Lady. Where was she? He tried rising and groaned. One of the guards assisted him and told, 'The vile creatures seized her.'

They called their dispersed horses and began a hasty pursuit by those still able to fight, Erestor among them. At the other side of the pass, the clear tracks led into a cave impossible to enter mounted. Erestor in his fury ran in first, sword in hand, with flying robes, his hair trailing behind. Right after entering he looked around bewildered. The cave, like the trail, split into three passages. Which way to go?