A Golden Dawn: A Chronological Re-telling

by UnedeofMirkwood

Unede, a warrior, a hero, the light of her people, has never been one for love. For a thousand years she has sacrificed for Mirkwood on the battle field, and now she sits on the council of the King. Met with matters of the heart, and political strife, Unede must navigate her way through uncharted territory, and learn who she is meant to be. ADDED CHAPTERS. CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER.

7. Chapter 7

An Uncommon Meeting

The Year 103 TA

She lifted her sword and crouched, awaiting the opponents attack. The world seemed to grow silent around her, and her eyes focused on the elf who stood on the opposite side of the ring. His dark hair hung in braids that shadowed his face, and blackened his eyes, and making him blend with the shadows that twilight had brought. She breathed slowly and deeply, focused on the weight of her sword and dagger, as she waited for him to attack.

They circled and anticipated the actions of the other with every tentative step. But, Unede was a patient swordsman. 'There was no need to rush the fight' Rumil had always said 'let it come to you and take the opening when you see it' she remembered his voice in her first lessons 'never prolong it, never waste your energy, fell them and be done'. His words sat in the back of her mind, and she found the steady spirit of the Mallorn in her.

Finally, he struck, his sword raised and his sides undefended as he carried himself in a great bound towards her. She watched him come, his center of balance off, the grip on the hilt of his blade weak. She parried his stroke and tripped her foe in a brief play. Unede regained her stance, sheathed her sword and dagger, and offered her hand to help him from the ground.

The dark-haired elf rose and looked at her "This is the beginner's course." he said halfheartedly.

"And I am a terrible archer." She said with a smile. The ellon brushed dirt from his clothes and looked to their captain.

"She is." The captain laughed "And, we all need to start somewhere. Troops, today we shall learn balance." he continued on, and Unede fell back into the group of untrained soldiers. A few seasoned warriors gave demonstrations, how to crouch, and shift weight from one foot to the other, how to evaluate the balance of your opponent, and overcome them unarmed. The lesson went on as they watched, and at length quiet voice spoke from behind her.

"Let us make a deal, if you are as terrible of an archer as you say, and a better swordsman than you let on, then we can benefit one another." The whisper came in her ear. She looked back and saw a blond ellon, young in the eyes, with a mischievous smile.

"You are skilled with the bow?" she breathed.

"I can hit the target." He winked.

"We have deal." she nodded.