Author's Note: I just realized a mistake I wrote earlier. Tomor's age is actually 22, not 18. Sorry about that. It would be too much trouble and adjust the whole beginning so... from now on he ain't 18! :D Oh and pleeeeeeaaaaaaseeeee review! Good? Bad? I gotta know. *falls on knees and begs* Thank you!
Acknowledgement: I used the Elvish language based on the Sindarin Dictionary by Didier Willis. If you want to get a copy, just e-mail me and I'll give you the web site!
Chapter 3: The Adventure Starts
Not wanting to stay idle, Tomor often traveled with Haldir and his group of elves throughout Lothlorien. When circumstances permitted, he brought Varloth with him, for his stallion was a war horse, and unused to wandering through unfamiliar territory without his master nearby.
It was on such a similar occasion as this when Tomor, riding upon Varloth, met Legolas, Gimli and Aleanon.
Haldir's keen perception, sensed the approach of strangers from far off, and suggested that Varloth not venture the rest of the way with them, lest a sensitive ear catch the sound of hooves on dry leaves.
Cautiously, they headed in the direction of the unknown intruders. Catching a glimpse of the company walking towards them, Haldir motioned his companions to maneuver into position, ready their bows, and surround the unwelcome strangers.
Suddenly, he straightened and stepped out of his hiding place with a smile of recognition. Legolas! Gimli! You seem to venture into these parts often. Barely a few seasons have passed since I last saw you. Frowning, Haldir queried, But who do you bring with you?
I am Aleanon, and was asked by these two worthy men to accompany them on their passage to Lorien.
The wood elf placed his fierce gaze upon the young man, You are an elf friend! he said with a laugh, I can see it in your eyes. Come and meet my comrades, noble guests.
The elves stepped out of their hiding place, Tomor followed suit. Immediately the one called Legolas looked at him with slight surprise.
A human aides you in your scouting, Haldir?
Only of late, Legolas. This is Tomor, son of Falaroth, who was a man of the Great North.
Great North? said Gimli, speaking for the first time, I thought that was only a legend told by minstrels among the night-fires of men.
It is a legend Gimli, son of Gloin, and do not all legends have a basis of truth? Mayhaps the tale of which you heard was greatly changed and can no longer be relied upon.
I heard, Gimli said, that it was once a great Kingdom, older and more powerful than all those of the Westron land put together. It was ruled by the line of Ghundalar, until a great evil beset itself upon the country, and the kingdom was lost forever.
Aleanon spoke, I have heard lore, similar to that of which Gimli has stated. A city there was said to be.... great and beautiful to behold. It was the city where the King and Queen dwelt, and when evil came to the land, it was said to pass into dream.
You speak truth Aleanon, Tomor said, But the Kingdom was not lost Gimli, son of Gloin, only the city... His eyes grew unfocused, and he spoke barely above a whisper, but everyone present heard each word clearly. Their minds soaked in the beauty and splendor of the land they each imaged. It pained their hearts that such a sight had been taken from the world. It was called Orehborn, the Golden City. There dwelt all races of the free people. Alas, that you should not gaze upon such a wondrous sight!
They all stood as if entranced, each imagining the majesty of the Golden City. It was Legolas who first shook himself out of the daze. Orehborn must indeed have been grand, Tomor, Faloroth's son, he acknowledged. I would have you tell me more of this place, only my companions and I must reach Caras Galadhon by nightfall.
You will never reach that far on foot! Tomor shook his head, With a horse perhaps one would be able to cover the distance.
There is no horse to ride upon...
Tomor whistled loudly, and was soon answered by a whinny and by hooves pounding against the ground. Varloth came galloping into view. His dark mane waving like a banner in the wind. He indeed was a horse to rival the mighty Shadowfax himself! Trotting up to Tomor, he stood by his side, as if waiting for orders.
There is no horse alive that can beat Varloth in speed, and he is large enough to bear all three of you.
I might know one who can... Legolas said with a smile, Nevertheless, he is a great steed. He called to him in elvish, *Lothron nin meldir a im noro am le, Varloth?
I will not ride on a horse Legolas! Gimli said strongly.
The elven prince laughed, Once before you have mounted. Once before to save your friends.
The need was dire, and experience unpleasant, one I do not wish to endure anon, he scowled.
The need is dire once more my friend, and do you not wish to see Lady Galadriel?
So it was with many grumblings and cursings that Gimli the dwarf rode upon a horse. Tomor had promised to follow them and would arrive in Caras Galadhon a few days hence. A change had come over the young man after his new friends had left. It was as if some unknown despair had been lifted off him, and hope began to rise in his chest. Perhaps he was in for a great adventure after all.
*sigh* yes, I know, this chapter was really short, so at least it doesn't matter as much cause you probly found it was really boring! That was due to some temporary writers block. Sorry about that. The next chapter will be much better, I promise. I was just testing my elvish in this one. Does anyone know the Sindarin word for you, your, or you are? Cause, would you believe it? I couldn't find it in my dictionary. I would welcome any suggestions so please review!!!!! If you do I'll.... I'll send Legolas over to give you a nice big hug! ... or maybe something better. ^_~ Perhaps you'd prefer Gimli? lol.
* May my friends and I ride upon thee, Varloth?
