Chapter Twelve
It was dark in the Old Forest. It did not help that the canopies overhead hid the light of the night sky. Gandalf knew all too well the dangers that laid wait in these woodlands. The forest was known to be dangerous and wild in these times, it was not fond or kind to two-legged creatures and the Old Wizard was no exception. The forest was angry, It was always angry. The memories of destruction and years of tree felling had fueled this anger and the Old Forest would not forgive or forget. The trees were known to be awake and would lash out at those traversing through. The forest had a way of misleading these unwelcome guests deeper into an endless maze of foliage and trees until they were captured by Old Man Willow. It was because of this that Gandalf wondered how Andie managed to navigate her way out of the forest.
He thought it curious as to how and why she would appear in this forest of all places. The two previous travelers had appear near Imladris. He and his colleagues were all fairly sure that there were no other appearances of any new traveler since the tragic death of Rhys. Andie would be the first to appear since then, to the best of their knowledge, and to arrive so far from her predecessors' point of origin. Perhaps it was merely a coincidence that Cyril and Rhys entered Middle Earth so close to Imladris. There was so much unknown about these travelers and it did not sit well with Gandalf. Continuing down the forest path he could only hope that answers could be found here.
The trees whispered and roots nudged at the Wizards feet. Branches fell whenever he strayed from the direction it clearly wanted him to follow. It was when he stopped for a break that the forest grew impatient and snapped at him angrily.
"I have had enough of your temper! You know not who you quarrel with!" Gandalf shouted, dismissing a root away with a whack of his staff.
The forest instantly silenced. The trees no longer whispered. Roots and branches no longer pestered him. Gandalf was no fool. This silence was not a surrender, no. Suddenly a massive gush of wind engulfed him accompanied by a loud angry groan. He sighed in annoyance as he backtracked a few feet to retrieve his hat that had blown away during the forest's tantrum.
"I am not oblivious to the fact that I am not welcomed here. I have no business with you. Tom Bombadil is the one I seek and you will not deter me."
Another angry groan dragged out through the forest. Gandalf continued down the path and tolerated the bothersome misguidance of the forest. It wanted him to end up in the valley of Withywindle for that was where Old Man Willow resided. This was no hindrance to Gandalf, not one bit. Unbeknownst to the forest, it was actually aiding him in his journey. The valley of Withywindle was one location he needed to reached in order to arrive at Tom Bombadil's home. From the valley he would follow the Withywindle river to the southeastern edge of the forest to reach his destination.
"Gone?!" Idhrenor shouted in disbelief.
"What do you mean gone?!" He spat, rushing over to where she had slept.
"She may have heard us.. You don't think she left?" Remlas spoke cautiously.
"Her bag is still here. I don't see any sign of struggle." Berenor noted.
"Her shoes are gone." Idhrenor said as he examine the ground for tracks.
"Then she stupidly wandered off" Berenor commented bitterly.
Idhrenor rose quickly to his feet and left camp in the direction of Andie's shoe prints. There was no mistaking them, the imprint of the soles of her shoes couldn't be made by any shoe in Middle Earth. It worried him that Andie left camp without a word. Did she leave because of their arguing? How much she understood of what was said he did not know. No... then why did she not take her bag? Did she mean to return? Perhaps she left to relieve herself? Or was it to get away from them? Did she understand enough of Westron to take offense at what was said? He couldn't think long on the reason why, it distracted him. He would focus on finding her, his brothers doing the same.
"She couldn't have gotten far." Remlas spoke in an attempt at reassuring him.
"I doubt she— Idhrenor!" Berenor called immediately in a loud whisper.
"What is it?"
Following Andie's trail, about 20 feet away from the campfire, Berenor could see signs of hesitation. She was pacing... Bending down to further inspect the ground, Berenor could clearly see signs of a second presence. There was a second set of shoe prints leading up to Andie's, this one was larger in size and stride. At a quick glance he could see that this intruder must've been watching her from behind a nearby tree. Further examining the tracks he saw evidence of a confrontation, kicked up dirt and remnants of heels digging firmly into the ground defiantly.
"She was not alone" Berenor spoke seriously.
"Arm yourselves. She's been taken. The culprit couldn't have gotten far." He ordered.
Idhrenor drew his sword and bent down to examine the trail himself. Berenor scoffed at him. Did he not trust his skill? Sensing Berenor's frustration, Remlas patted his shoulder knowingly. Remlas was right, now was not the time to pick a fight with one another. They would have time for that later.
"Who could have taken her? Bandits? The trail leads back in the direction of Chetwood Forest. Let us make haste." Idhrenor spoke, rushing in his search for Andie.
She was taken... Why did she not scream? Had she made a sound and they simply did not hear it? Whoever took her.. why only take Andie? Why not their supplies or valuables? Remlas thought hard on the implications of these questions. This would mean that Andie was the intended target...
"Berenor" Remlas said, grabbing his arm firmly.
"Her tracks did not wander far from camp... she was within sight range. She only dared wander so far from us, as foolish as it was, she knew to stay close. Someone was waiting for an opportune moment... and we provided it. Perhaps we should split up and widen our search?" Remlas voiced his concern.
"Aye... Inform Idhrenor. I'll scout ahead from the north. Be vigilant brother. We don't know much of her kind or of her captor." Berenor replied.
The forest was calm and peaceful here near the home of Tom Bombadil. Hints of honey, freshly cooked bread and woodsmoke breezed by Gandalf, beckoning him closer for rest. Despite the inviting aromas and the welcomed sight of his destination, Gandalf was uneasy. A foreboding sense of alarm filled him and he looked to the trees with scrutiny.
"Eh? Hello!" Spoke a cheery voice, breaking him from his suspicions.
"Come in! Come join me Grey Pilgrim. I was expecting company though I did not think you would arrive so soon."
Gandalf raised a brow at this. He was expected? How curious! "Good afternoon! I'm sorry to intrude and to show up uninvited. It would seem introductions aren't needed." Gandalf said with a smile as he bowed respectfully in greeting.
"Quite right you are! It is a particular good afternoon. Good for enjoying a bit of Old Toby and good food!" Tom replied over his shoulder, walking over the threshold of his stone house decorated with colorful flowers and beautiful gardens.
With one last glance behind him, Gandalf searched the tree line before following the jovial old man into his home. He was sure that a powerful being like Tom was already aware of the eyes that watched them. It wouldn't be wise to alert their watcher of their awareness. If Tom Bombadil was expecting him and now they were being watched then it could not be a coincidence. If it were not for Andie's arrival he would not be here seeking information. Perhaps now was the moment he would find insight on the mysteries surrounding the Travelers and at last have the answers he sought many years ago.
Tom busied himself over a large hearth, it burned with a sweet smell. On a table nearby Gandalf could see an assortment of ripe berries, butter, bread and cheese. There was also green herbs, milk and honeycombs. Tom ushered him to a seat and smiled cheerily as he did so. "Sit! Eat!" He encouraged the Old Wizard.
"It is not often that I get visitors for reasons I can glean you already know. Not many can traverse through without incident or being lost to the will of the forest. Surprisingly in a week's time I came upon a man I met long ago, one who should be dead. Then a young woman who appeared to be lost happened my way, although maybe now she is where she's meant to be. And now I am visited by Gandalf the Grey! I didn't think myself so popular!" Tom said merrily.
"Dead? Why is it that he should be dead? Was he a friend of yours?" Gandalf inquired cautiously.
"Friend? No, no. He was merely a man I met years ago. Around 800 years ago if my memory serves me right. I could've sworn he was of mankind. Perhaps I remember wrong.. though it isn't likely I would forget.." Tom answered, stroking his beard contemplating.
Gandalf frowned. Could it be? Had Cyril survived? And all these years he remained hidden until now and for what purpose? What were the odds of another man living this long?What were the odds of Cyril surviving that blast? Surely these Travelers were simply human. How could a feat such as this be accomplished by a mortal?
"What was the name of this man?"
"I have an inkling that you know his name already. His name is Cyril Belmonte of New York and his tale is a sad one. It is for this reason I have sent that young lady your way Gandalf. I do not interfere in matters of this world but fair warning is what I can give."
An hour had passed by since Andie's disappearance and Berenor was now standing at the edge of Chetwood was no singing of crickets or calls from any night creatures. It was eerily silent. Andie's captor was no bandit, Berenor was sure of this now.
The tracks he followed had started off as two sets of shoe prints, Andie and her captor. She struggled against her kidnapper for a good few feet until her captor was forced to carrying her and now only one track remained. This person was highly skilled and not alone. Before splitting up they found evidence of others, more shoe prints and flatten grass where some sat. They traveled light and swiftly in the dark.
Who would be after Andie? This couldn't be the work of ordinary criminals. To travel a night without the aid of a torch was difficult but to do this in haste so skillfully and without their notice was testament of someone skilled in stealth. Berenor walked up to a tree with a small branch that was nearly snapped completely off, it dangled and rocked back and forth slightly. He touched the end of it and found blood smeared on his hand. It wasn't a large amount but enough for him to conclude that someone had tried to either hold on to the branch or pull it off. If this was Andie then he must be close.
He took out a dagger and proceeded to carve into the bark of the tree, Ranger Runes, a message for his brothers should they come this way. Without hesitation Berenor embarked deeper into the forest silently and cautiously. Minutes passed by and Berenor pushed on, following the disturb foliage and crushed leaves. A small glint catch shining from the ground near a root caught his eye and he bent down to inspect the object. A silver earring! One identical to the ones Andie had offered Idhrenor back in Bree.
"She was here.." He said to himself In a whisper.
Berenor stowed away the earring in his pocket and rose to carve another rune into a tree. He was getting closer. Hopefully his brothers would join him soon. He continued on down a path and it wasn't long before he found one of Andie's strange shoes. A piercing scream echoed through the air causing Berenor to freeze in place.
"Heaven's sakes!" He exclaimed in a loud whisper, a hand over his heart.
Was that Andie? The women had an impressive scream, one he did not think a small quiet woman like her could muster. He was definitely close. It's not an easy feat to startle the Ranger but It would seem Andie was full of surprises. Quickly pulling himself together Berenor rapidly tied Andie's shoe onto the side of his belt by the shoelace. He pressed on briskly in the direction of her scream and could now hear other voices angrily conversing.
"Will you shut her up?! Or do I have to?!"
"Must be part Wight with a scream like that!"
"I would think twice about makin' such noise sweetheart."
"Silence! There will be no threats made at Mrs. Alice! Speak another unkind word and you pay with your life." Said the tall man who held Andie by her arm.
None spoke. None dared challenged the man. Berenor could see them now from behind the tree he hid. He crouched low and readied himself with his sword. There was three men in total, each dressed in dark clothes. Surveying each criminal he noted that two men were equipped with scimitars and axes except for the remaining one, the man who seemed to be their leader, who was armed with a broadsword. Scimitars and axes? These were weapons used among goblins but were they not men…
"Goblin-men" Berenor spoke quietly in disgust.
Abominations. Goblin-men were the result of the union of man and orc. They were loyal to Sauron and often used as spies. Though they were as tall as a man they still hold some resemblance to their orc brethren. Not all Goblin-men looked exactly like a goblin physically with deformities and sickly colored skin. Some could pass off as humans despite some orcish facial features, such as these. What business would Goblin-men have with Andie? Did they know she is a Traveler?
The tall man turned to Andie. His face was covered up to his nose, just below his eyes with a mask. There were deep scars that riddled the uncovered portion of his face and continued down under into the mask. He was broad shouldered and well built. No doubt this was a warrior. The way he carried himself was proof of this. It surprised Berenor that this man was human, a human in command of Goblin-men.
"Let me go!" Andie shouted, struggling to free herself from the man.
Berenor listened intently as the man spoke to her. He couldn't understand the words spoken but recognized it as the language Gandalf and Andie spoke in Bree, Andie's language. The man was gentle with Andie and it looked as if he was trying to convince her of something... no, he was trying to reassure her?
"Please.. I don't understand." Andie continue to fight against him, struggling to find the right words in Westron.
"She doesn't understand? Don't tell me we grab the wrong woman!" One of the Goblin-men spat.
"She could belong to one of the rangers. She has been pretty close to that one particula—"
"No! Greemer, Lug, do not questioned me. She's not from here. I am sure this is Alice. She matches the photo." The man spoke now in Westron, resulting with others muttering among themselves.
"Alice. I don't know how you've come to learn Westron so quickly but I know it is you. You have nothing to fear of me. My name is Rhys. I am a colleague of your husband. He sent me to bring you to him. You needn't keep up this charade. If you continue to fight me I will have no choice but to gag you and carry you until you see things our way."
"I'm wrong person! Andie! Not Alice! He right!" She exclaimed, pointing that the shortest of the Goblin-men.
"My man! He is ranger! He come for me!" She shouted.
Clever girl. Berenor understood what she was doing. She was playing a part, one of mistaken identity. Though they may very well have the wrong person. Her name was not Alice. She refused to respond in her language or even acknowledge what the man was saying. She was stalling but it wouldn't last for long. Thinking on what this man said, Berenor realized the identity of this man. It couldn't be! He's dead! Glorfindel confirmed his death, did he not?! The chances of another man named Rhys kidnapping Andie, a Traveler were not high. With his sword in his hand Berenor stepped into plain view, deciding it was time for answers.
"Release her." He demanded.
"He's here Gandalf. He's waiting for her to be returned to him. He sent others to retrieve her. Foul creatures... Goblin-men."
"Goblin-men! So he is in league with Orcs?! Why did you not say so sooner?! I must go immediately!" Gandalf spoke, throwing his hat on his head as he rose to leave in haste.
"Did you not say you left her in fine hands? Or do you doubt the skill of these Rangers? I sent her away in the direction I knew she would have the most help. It led her to the Rangers. It led her to you."
"You sent her into the clutches of a Barrow-Wight! Were it not for Idhrenor she would be dead!"
"She did not follow my instructions well then. I gave her a spell to summon me if she faced any danger. " Tom countered.
"Cyril has been watching me these pass couple of days...he suspects I hide her. He's watching now but I'm sure you were already aware of that. Rushing to her aid may very well get her caught. You would lead him right to her." Tom warned, effectively stopping Gandalf at the door.
"And what of these Goblin-men? Why send others to search when he thinks she is here with you?"
"He is suspicious of me but there was one who traveled with him who felt she was elsewhere."
"One of the Goblin-men?"
"No. This was a man... but I believe him to be a shadow of his former self. If I didn't know better I would've have thought him an apparition. I couldn't see his face well, he covered himself from head to toe. But I caught a glimpse of scars on his face... deep ones. I do not know what could have caused them. These scars were jagged and some looked as if he was burned with a mighty fire. It was as if he was sewn together, like a overused garment."
This caused Gandalf to pause in thought. These scars sounded horrendous. Was it possible for a mortal to survive such pain? Tom describes him as a shadow, a spirit! It then dawned on him who this apparition could be.
"This man.. did he have a name?" Gandalf asked gravely.
"I believe I heard Cyril call him Rhys."
Rhys! So he survived! And now it seems that he was corrupted in the end. He may have survived the blast so long ago but was he truly alive. It worried Gandalf that Tom described him as he did. This may no longer be the friend he once knew.
"You knew him." Tom noted from Gandalf's solemn face.
"Yes. He was a friend of mine many years ago. He too should be dead. He was deceived by Cyril and we thought it resulted in his death. There was a blast, from what we don't know, but it could explain his scars."
"He was once a soldier, a skilled one. If he is searching for Andie then I fear she may already be found."
"Do not think to lose hope. Two Goblin-men will be no match for your Rangers but this Rhys fellow will be a challenge. Take my horse. Ride hard to your companions. I will keep Cyril's eyes on me. But do well to remember all I've told you."
"Release her"
"Berenor!" Andie shouted.
For the first time since they left Bree she was extremely happy to see the grumpy ranger. She wanted to run to him but was too afraid to move. They threaten to hurt them if she disobeyed. She knew Berenor was armed but her kidnappers terrified her. Especially the two slightly deformed men behind her. One was missing an eye and had around fat face. His nose was bulbous and had a large bump under his good eye. His full appearance wasn't clear to Andie as it was dark and her eyesight wasn't the best at all. Despite this she was almost sure this man had a even larger bump on his shoulder.
The other man was skinnier compare to the former and Rhys. He was lanky and sickly looking. His hair was greasy and he had a bald spot on the back of his head. He had a long pointed nose and beady eyes. Then there was Rhys. He was a hulk of a man. He looked athletic and was as tall as Berenor, maybe even taller. She knew he was strong, struggling against him was like trying to break free from a boa constrictor. She could see a combination of sharp, bumpy and tight scars on his forehead. They differed in color, some darker than others. Even though he was gentle with her, she was still terrified of him.
"Andie come." Berenor ordered, his hand outstretched to her.
She hesitated. Rhys' eyes bore into her, silently telling her not to comply. Their threat echoed in her mind. She looked to Berenor and tried to focus solely on him. He was here now, she's safe or will be soon. Gripping the sides of her dress, she discreetly hiked it up slightly and readied herself to run to Berenor's side.
"Think twice about what you're about to do. I don't want to hurt your friend." Rhys warned her.
Berenor scoffed at him. "You underestimate me. Put my blade to the test and you will see I am not one to be triffle with."
"I have no qualms with you Ranger." Rhys says, dismissively.
"You've stolen my wife. A crime worth death." Berenor threaten, continuing Andie's charade.
"Wife?! You see! She is not Alice!" The lumpy Goblin-man shouted.
"Shut it Greemer!" Rhys barked.
"I know not of a Alice. Her name is Andie. She is my wife." Berenor spoke, watching Andie slowly inching closer to him.
"I'm no fool. You and I both know where she's from."
"Neither am I. What business does a man and his half-orc henchmen have with a simple woman?"
"That doesn't concern you."
"Oh but it does. What proof do you have that this is the woman you seek?"
Rhys was silent, his face hard, and eyes narrowed at the ranger before him. He advances towards Berenor with confident steps as he draws his sword.
"Very well.. You've chosen death."
Andie's heart dropped and a cold sensation washed over her filling her with dread. She may not be fluent in this new language but those last three words she understood clearly. She gasped loudly at the sound of clashing swords and tensed at each swing Berenor effortlessly dodged. She wasn't close to him and she doubted he saw her as anything but a hindrance, but that didn't mean she didn't care if he lived or died. She continued to watched the two exchange blows when she noticed a glistening on Rhys right ring finger. It glowed dimly, illuminating a small radius around his hand.
She wasn't an expert in battle. In fact Andie had never been in a fight but even someone as unknowledgeable in battle as her could see that Rhys had the advantage. With each strike Berenor was pushed back more and more. This man was gaining strength with each blow he dealt. Andie began to panic as she witness Berenor kneel down to one knee under the force of Rhys' blade. He was struggling to push back and Andie feared he would die. She looked to Greemer and then to Lug, both were smirking menacingly. It was to her benefit that the two were ordered not to lay a hand on her but what could she do? She's not a fighter. Adrenaline pumped through her veins and she searched the ground with her eyes for anything that could be used as a weapon. She searched and searched until she spotted a thick branch about the same size as a baseball bat.
"Just swing it." She coached herself.
Envisioning Rhys' head as a baseball on top a batting tee Andie swung hard at her target. A harsh smack resounded around them, target acquired. His sword dropped from his hand and he followed it to the ground seconds later, landing with a thud. All were momentarily frozen with shock, Andie included. She didn't think her attack would have such impact.
"I.. I.. Did I kill him?!" She asked horrified, dropping the branch as if it burned her.
"Oi! Now you've done it!" Screeched Greemer.
Snapping into action Berenor pulled Andie behind him. "Run east into the forest. Do not look back. I will find you." He ordered without a glance her way.
"But-"
"Go now!"
He couldn't be serious. The thought of leaving him behind didn't sit well with her. Quickly she grabbed his arm and tugged firmly. "Run with me."
"Listen you daft girl!"
"I'm not leaving without you!" She shouted back, pulling harder at his arm.
"None of you are leaving. Your gonna pay for what you've done!" Lug growled, lunging toward them with his curved blade.
Berenor swiftly evaded the strike, pulling Andie with him by her waist. His sword swung hard and met with Lug's blade with a clash, the force throwing Lug onto the ground.
"Stubborn girl." Berenor muttered as he grabbed her hand tightly before running away from battle.
He pulled her hand when she fell behind. She couldn't keep up with him. Her shoeless foot ached greatly with every rock, twig and root she stomped on. She hurried along nonetheless. It was so dark. She wondered how Berenor could maneuver so well without pause. He bumped into no tree or even tripped on any step unlike her. They ran until they came across an area where the canopy was thickest, the dark aiding in their concealment. Berenor pulled her behind the largest tree he could find and shushed her before she could speak.
They listened carefully, though Andie couldn't hear much besides her heartbeat drumming in her ears. She tried to quiet her breathing and found it difficult to do, she wheezed loudly with each inhale. She clenched her chest tightly with her free hand and closed her eyes. Her lungs burned and each breath pained her. It was so hard to breathe and her asthma pump was back at camp. Rough warm hands cupped her face and she opened her eyes to see a concerned Berenor.
"What's wrong?"
"It's. Ok... I'm. Fine." She said each word through labored breathing.
He turned her face left and right. He checked her neck for any wound, he found none. Instead of a wound he found red splotches littered all over her neck and traveling down to her chest. His hands moved quickly and he moved her cloak aside for better view.
"Back off!" Andie snapped at him, smacking his hand away.
Berenor covered her mouth with his hand swiftly and in a loud whisper told her to SHHHH! She glared at him in response. After a few seconds she peeled off his hand and pushed him gently away for some space.
"Are you ill? Did they harm you?" He persisted.
Andie shook her head no. It took too much effort to speak, her constricted airways made sure of that. She had to try though. She desperately needed her pump. Forcing air into her lungs with strained long breaths, Andie gripped his arm for support. He tipped her chin up and examined her neck once more. His fingers gliding over each red splotch. Some of the splotches were raised, each of them emitting a small amount of heat.
"You have a fever." He told her, placing a hand on her forehead.
"You're warm."
"I'm fine. It nothing." She assured him, her breathing finally steadying. Her wheezing didn't leave and she still had to force each breath but at least now she was able to breathe more slowly.
"Speak the truth lest you die." he said gravely.
Her eyes snapped to him in mild disbelief. He sure had a way with words. How could she explain this to him? She didn't know the words for asthma or stress hives. She thought of acting it out but that was even more difficult.
"I need Idhrenor. He knows." She said in a raspy voice.
Berenor looked around their surroundings. Waiting for Idhrenor may be too risky. He turned to her, a determined expression set, and said, "I'm here. Tell me."
She thought hard on what to say. Words, come on! Think of the right words! Easy words! "My bag. Help. Can't run." She said pointing to her hives and chest.
He nodded in understanding, took out his knife, and proceed to carve into the side of the tree. Andie watched wordlessly, her eyes checking him for any sign of injury. She noticed her missing sneaker tied on his belt and reached to untie it. Berenor tensed at the feeling of his belt being tugged, his hands catching hers immediately. Their eyes met and she squeaked at the intensity of his glare.
"Sorry.. my shoe." She said timidly.
He released her hands and relinquished her footwear to her, all the while muttering under his breath. She sunk down to the ground and pulled on her sneaker when the crunching of leaves was heard. Berenor was immediately by her side and crouched low to the ground. They remained still and silent for what seemed like forever to Andie.
"Get on my back" he whispered.
"What?"
"Now." He ordered.
When she did not move he pushed her behind him and pull her arms over his shoulders. She pressed against his back with a 'oof!' Her hands slid back to grip his shoulders and he hissed in pain from the contact. Her hand felt sticky and she was shocked to see blood covering her entire palm.
"You're hurt!"
"Shh! It's nothing." He retorted.
"But it's so much..."
Berenor's patience was wearing thin. Why wouldn't she just do what she was told? They needed to move and fast. She slowed him down and now she was sick. They needed to get back to camp and he hoped his brothers would find them soon. He returned his focus to Andie and rushed her once more to climb onto his back. Her hesitation frustrated him and his impatience grew. He grabbed her thighs firmly and hoisted her up on his back causing her to yelp in surprise. Her arms wrapped around his neck tightly and she tensed when he stood.
"Not so tightly! You'll strangle me!" He whispered harshly.
"Sorry!"
Andie rested her head on his uninjured shoulder, fatigue getting the best of her. Her left underarm soon felt warm and sticky from Berenor's bleeding shoulder. She tried her best not to put weight on the wound as she didn't want to cause him any pain. She felt self conscious being carried piggyback style by the serious ranger. She felt useless, helpless, a burden. Her wheezing continued on and with each whistling breath she felt more and more embarrassed. She buried her face into his neck without thinking, only wishing to escape from every negative thought in her mind. He grumbled lowly in annoyance.
"Berenor.. will you be ok?" She mumbled.
"Yes" he answered curtly.
"You hurt bad. Let me walk"
"No."
He continued to maneuver through the forest without any problem, backtracking to where he came. A crow cawed loudly nearby and Andie gasped, her heart nearly leapt out of her chest. She could feel him chuckling at her expense and resisted the urge to hit him. How long would it take for them to get to safety? A voice sounded from behind them and Berenor hid them both behind a moss covered tree.
"Shh!"
She gripped his tunic tightly, her heart drumming in her chest again. There was movement a few feet away. Did Greemer and Lug catch up with them? 'Please don't find us, please don't find us.' She repeated over and over in her head.
"Berenor! Andie!" A hushed voice called out.
"Berenor! Brother!" Another followed.
Walking passed their hiding place was Idhrenor and Remlas. Berenor called out to them and Andie began to squirm to be free from the piggyback ride. She didn't want the others to think her weak.
"Stop moving!" He fumed, almost losing balance.
"Put me down!" She demanded.
"I will drop you" he warned.
Their argument was cut short by the sound of someone clearing their throat. Both Idhrenor and Remlas' face held bemused expressions, unsure of what they were witnessing.
"Are we interrupting? Are you being bested by a woman half you size brother?" Remlas jested.
"It would seem so and you worry about me." Idhrenor added.
Sending a glare at them both, Berenor unceremoniously released Andie. She yelped loudly as she landed hard on her bottom. "Carry her yourself."
"Why does she need carrying? Was she injured?" Remlas asked him.
"I'm fine. He hurt." Andie answered, pointing at Berenor's shoulder, effectively turning the attention to him.
"You're injured?"
The conversation carried on between Berenor and Remlas, the latter grumbling about her stubbornness. He spoke about how they escaped and Remlas informed them of the death's of the two Goblin-men. They were safe for now.
"You saw no trace of the man?"
"No. We followed your messages and tracks until we came upon two half-orcs. There was no one else."
"There will be no rest tonight. We cannot stay here or at camp. It's not safe."
Remembering Andie's breathing predicament, Berenor walked up to her and joined Idhrenor who was already examining her hives. It was overwhelming, the attention, too many hands. Her breathing was still labored and all their fussing made her feel claustrophobic.
"Stop." She breathed out, distancing herself from the two.
"Need. my. bag." She reminded them both, speaking each word in between breaths.
Without any warning Andie was lifted off the ground and held securely in Idhrenor's arm. As much as she was annoyed with all the manhandling, she was far too exhausted to argue any further. Closing her eyes, she focused on her breathing and remaining calm. She would get to her asthma pump in time. There was no need to worry. Idhrenor, Remlas and Berenor were all here now, she was safe. The worst was behind them, so she hoped.
His head pounded mercilessly. How stupid of him to let his guard down with her. He survived far worse but the pain from being hit in the head by a branch hurt badly. His eyesight was blurry and he blinked hard repeatedly until it cleared. Sitting on ground as he cradled his head, Rhys thought about the woman he was tasked to retrieve. He pulled out a worn black and white photo from his pocket and stared at the woman pictured. It didn't make sense, he so was sure she was Alice. She looked almost as the woman in the photo. Why did she not listen? Why did she lie? Why did she call herself Andie?
There were differences, that he couldn't refute. Alice's hair was much longer and lighter in color. Whereas Andie's hair was shorter in contrast and dark. Alice didn't wear glasses, Andie did. Alice was skinny and fit, Andie had a fuller curvy form. Andie had a birthmark on her cheek and blemishes spread out her face. Alice did not, her face was clear as day. These were not the only differences and it confused him as to how Cyril could be wrong. He was so confident he was successful this time. He was so sure. Was Cyril mistaken?
He couldn't be. She looks so much like Alice... Maybe she changed? What was he to do? He couldn't return empty handed. He would be punished. He couldn't afford another strike. He had to complete his task.. it is the only way he would be able to return home.
They had been riding on horses for a while now. Gandalf arrived upon a brown horse just as they reached camp. He brought along with him three other horses, two of which were dark brown and the remaining one was grey. The wizard strongly advised that they quickly move on forward immediately, only saying he would explain all at a safer location. They each rode astride on their own expect for Andie and Idhrenor. She sat in front of the ranger, fighting sleep, her asthma now resolved thanks to her medication. Andie was relieved when they slowed down to a trot. Galloping into the dark had her nervous despite being so close to her ranger friend.
Her entire body ached from all the activity. Traveling on foot for days, getting kidnapped, running for her life and recovering from an asthma attack really took a toll on her both physically and mentally. She was drained and dejected. It was hard enough to be optimistic about her situation. Any time she tried to think positively it made her feel more and more away from reality, pangs of homesickness worsening the farther they traveled. She shifted uncomfortably in the saddle, trying to keep as much space between her and Idhrenor. Her head drooped ever so often and she jumped awake when she felt like she would fall off.
"Lean on me. Rest. I won't let you fall."
Andie turned her head to look at him, unsure about whether or not it was a good idea. It wasn't so much that she doubted him, more like she worried about the streak of unfortunate events she was having so far. He glanced at her and quirked an eyebrow. "You don't trust me?"
"I do." She replied quickly, hoping she didn't offend him.
Pausing briefly, she leaned back against him, his front pressed to her back. This felt far too awkward, not to mention intimate, being this close to him this way. She thought back to the events that occurred not long ago. Why was this all happening? She was no one. None of it made sense. Alice... who is Alice? Her eyes fell on Berenor's back as he rode in front of them. She couldn't tell if he was in pain. If he was, he hid it well. She remember the fear she felt when she thought he would die. This world is so dangerous. Her hand was still covered in his blood, there was no time for her to clean up. Picking at the dried blood on her palm, Andie wondered if he would be alright.
"Idhrenor..."
"Hmm?"
"Berenor is ok?" She asked sleepily.
His eyes flicked over to his brother. "He will be well. There is no need to worry, Berenor is strong."
Yawning into her hand, Andie pulled the edges of her cloak around her. She pulled her hood on and rested her head into his chest. It didn't take long for her to fall asleep, her light snores reaching his ears. He wondered of what purpose or benefit someone would have by kidnapping her. He wondered if Gandalf was successful in acquiring answers. Anticipation filled him and he felt impatient for an explanation. They continued at this pace for a while longer, dawn was merely an hour away. Gandalf led them a little ways off the East Road, though he knew they would still be followed.
"We'll make camp here. Take rest, I will be on watch." The wizard commanded.
Handing Andie to Remlas, carefully so as not to wake her, Idhrenor dismounted. The night had been a trying one. Berenor and Remlas quickly made camp while he secured the horses. Andie slept curled up in a ball on the bedroll Remlas laid her on. Gandalf sat on the ground, his pipe in hand. Idhrenor couldn't rest, not without an explanation or even a indication of what to expect.
"Gandalf, what news of your travels."
The old wizard let out a long breath, wisps of smoke dancing around him. "Cyril is alive."
All were silent, a sense of foreboding filling the rangers. "I was being watched and it was Tom who revealed to me his identity. What I learned is most troubling and I fear what will become of Miss Andie."
"He survived... The man I encountered—the man who tried to take her.. Rhys. He survived as well then. I thought you called him a friend. He is in league with Orcs! He commanded two half-orcs." Berenor spoke.
"Yes. Rhys is alive as well. I'm not sure how but Tom described him as an apparition, a shadow of a man. Is this how he appeared to you?"
"I could not see his face, he was covered entirely except for the top portion of his face. I did see scars..horrible scars. He looked stitched together and yet not completely whole. There was something off about him."
"It could be the result of Cyril's experimentations and corruption." Gandalf said solemnly, taking off his hat.
"Experimentations?" Remlas questioned, disturbed.
Idhrenor listened intently, his eyes never leaving the wizard. "What does this mean for Andie?" He asked seriously.
"He is after her. He believes her to be his wife. Tom told me the tale of Cyril's misfortune, it is what drives him to what he does. He was an inventor and it was his occupation that lead him to meet his wife... it was also his occupation that led to her death."
"Alice.." Berenor trailed off.
All eyes were on Berenor at the mention of this name. "It's what Rhys called her. He was convinced she was Alice."
"Yes, that was her name."
"If she is dead why would he think Andie to be her?" Idhrenor asked bewildered.
Gandalf took a long puff of his pipe, his face grave and eyes hard. "It is his goal to bring her back to him here in Middle Earth. He was in the Old Forest days before Andie's arrival. Tom told me he felt a drain in the Forest's power, it magic being pulled and stretched. That is when he saw Cyril and Rhys, along with a handful of Goblin-men."
"He smelled of death.. that is what Tom said."
Idhrenor looked at Andie's sleeping form. Death, was this her fate? He felt a firm hand grip his shoulder and turned to see Remlas. He knew what his brother was silently saying, 'do not jump to conclusions.' How could he not when she was nearly lost. It wasn't time for arguments, they wouldn't see eye to eye anyway. He would simply agree to disagree.
"From what I was told Cyril is a mad man with the belief that he can bring his wife back from death. He believes himself to be a master of his craft and will stop at nothing to be with Alice. He is a heartbroken man lost to grief and delusion and I am unsure of what will become of Andie if he acquires her."
"Is this to mean that he brought her here? How can a mortal have such power?"
"He has a ring of power. Tom described it as a ring with a glimmer of emerald. He used it along with a contraption of some sort. It shined brightly when he called Andie to our world. I have no knowledge of any rings of power capable of such a feat. It is my belief that he has learned the ways of magic and intertwined it with his own creations."
"A ring? When I was engage in battle with the Traveler Rhys there was a small light shining on his right hand. His strength grew unnaturally with each blow and I found myself being overpowered by him." Berenor said, pausing briefly to look at Andie.
"If it were not for her I would be dead... I owe her my life."
"She was the one who knocked him unconscious!?" Remlas asked, incredulously.
"Aye. With a branch she swung hard at his head."
"It wouldn't be far-fetched to think Rhys having possession of a ring as well. I must warn you, Rhys may very well be watching us as we speak. I do not know the nature of these rings. We must be vigilant of our surroundings. I do not think Rhys would dare another attempt at stealing away Miss Andie, not while I am here and not while he is alone. Time is of the essence. It is pertinent that we get her to the safety of Imladris, away from Cyril's reach. For now rest, soon we will depart. We will discuss this more with Lord Elrond, there is much to be decided."
A/N: Hello! Hello! It's been almost a month since my last update and I apologize for the long wait. I had a tough couple of weeks and needed a breather. I'm doing good and hope to be able to post more chapters more regularly. As for the question I've received the most from the last chapter about what Bifur left for Andie and whether or not she took it, I hope to answer this in the next chapter. :) There's a lot of bouncing around happening in this chapter and I hope i wrote the transitions clear and didn't confuse anyone. One thing I learned writing this is that Fighting Scenes are the most frustrating thing to write lol. So I decided to write it from a onlooker's POV, Andie. Let me know how I did :) I'm also now on Ao3! Under the same name, DreamingGalaxies.
Thank you everyone for the reviews and messages! It really brighten my day. Thank you to Soccerchamp13, Chidori-No-Kyoku, Cammy2662, ThatBlueStrawberry, nataliestead87, theta-Skywalker-587, and Nerrous for the follows and favorites! I hope you all enjoy this chapter!
Disclaimer:
Everything belongs to J.R.R. Tolkien except my OCs and the unrecognizable parts of the plot.