The Rescue Party:
Ensconced in her favorite place on the great terrace, Rána sighed as she tilted her face back to catch the sunshine. She hoped its warmth would bake away her headache. She also hoped her brother, closeted with Elrond in his study, had as bad a headache as she did. They had drunk far too much wine the night before. Slowly, the sun's warmth & the comforting sound of the Bruinen lulled Rána into a light doze.
The sound of shouting snapped her awake in an instant. She sprang to her feet &, gathering up her skirts, ran for the main courtyard where the noise was coming from. She paused at the top of the stairs to see what was happening. One of Elrond's household was holding a horse, wild-eyed & soaked with sweat. Several others were gathered around Elrohir, who knelt beside a prone figure. Then Rána saw the blood staining the stranger's tunic & she darted down to join her foster brother.
"Who is he?" she asked quickly as she helped Elrohir staunch the wound. "What happened?"
"He is one of Thranduil's folk, out of Mirkwood. I have no idea what happened," Elrohir replied. "Except – that," He nodded towards a broken arrow laying on the ground beside him, "is an orc arrow! "
Rána inhaled sharply, then became aware of Aragorn & Elrond as they arrived. Elrond immediately took charge. Elrohir & Rána had controlled the bleeding enough to get the stranger into the house, where Elrond took over tending him.
Finally the forest Elf was considered out of danger. Normally Elrond would have let him sleep, but he sensed the matter was much too urgent. So he reluctantly roused his patient. The younger Elf's eyes snapped open & he stared up at the Half-Elven lord in panic, then recognized him. He struggled to sit up, but Elrond restrained him.
"Gently, youngling. You are safe. How come you here in such a manner?"
The elf clutched at his arm. "Lord Elrond, you must help us! Our party was set upon by orcs, not far from your borders. Prince Legolas is with us…!"
Rána saw her foster father stiffen & heard her brother's exclamation. "Thranduil's son?" Aragorn said sharply. "Where is he now?"
The elf shook his head weakly. "I do not know, Dúnadan. He sent me for help. But the yrch outnumbered us greatly! I fear…"
He said nothing else, fainting from the loss of blood.
Elrond turned to them. "Change quickly," he ordered. "We will send what strength we can to aid – or avenge – the Prince."
Rána hesitated, looking at her brother. He nodded. "Get your things. You ride with us."
Rána raced for her room, tugging at the lacing of her gown as she ran. Arwen was there, waiting for her. She helped Rána change into garments similar to those her brother wore as a Ranger, then handed the younger woman her sword & dagger. She watched quietly as Rána secured the sword belt around her waist.
"Take care, Little Sister," she said quietly. "This is no sword drill you face."
Rána looked at her, nerves & a touch of fear in her eyes. "I know. I will."
She darted out of the room & headed for the courtyard. The twins & Aragorn were there ahead of her, along with a large group of Elven warriors & horses. She took the reins of the gray she always favored & swung up onto its back. Aragorn, on Roheryn, joined her.
"Stay close, Little One," he instructed. "And stay alert."
She nodded wordlessly as Elrond joined them. "You will need this, daughter." He secured a healer's pack to her saddle, then turned to address the group. "If you ride quickly, you can reach the border before midday. Do whatever you can to aid the Prince. For the sake of our friendship with Mirkwood." He raised a hand in blessing. "Elbereth will guide you."
They all bowed, touching fingers to forehead & lips. With Elrohir & Elladan leading, the company galloped out of Rivendell & took the path towards the East.
Rána rode beside her brother, a mixture of excitement & dread churning in her stomach. She was facing battle – & death – for the first time. Aragorn sensed her nervousness.
"You will do fine, Rána," he said calmly. "Just remember what you have been taught."
Pushing their horses, the company reached the eastern edge of Rivendell in little more than an hour. They paused while Aragorn scouted for tracks to show them what direction to take. He finally spotted the single set of hoofprints coming from the northeast & the company rode in that direction.
After more hard riding, they came upon a horrible sight. In a hollow surrounded by low hills, were the remnants of a terrible fight. The bodies of a half dozen elves lay in the center of the hollow, surrounded by nearly twice that many dead orcs. Fearing the worst, Elrohir & Elladan rode to the elves & dismounted to begin searching among them. Rána slipped out of her saddle & leaned against the horse's shoulder, sickened by what she saw. Then a faint sound caught her attention. She ducked around the horse's neck to find one elf, laying a little apart from the others. She saw his hand move slightly & realized he was still alive.
"Brothers!" she shouted & dashed over to kneel beside him. He'd been slashed along his rib cage by an orc's blade. "The healer's kit! Bring it! Hurry!"
Elrohir & Aragorn appeared at her side, Elrohir handing her the healer's bag as he & Aragorn dropped to their knees to help treat the injured elf. Between the three of them, the bleeding was quickly stopped & the wound bandaged. Rána raised the elf's head to rest in her lap, while Aragorn trickled some wine between his lips. The elf came to with a start.
"No!" he shouted, struggling to sit up. "You cannot…!"
Elrohir caught him by the shoulders & pressed him back. "Be calm, kinsman. It is over."
The elf stared up at him wild-eyed until he finally recognized him. "Lord Elrohir," he gasped. "The Prince! You must help him!"
"Legolas is not here," Elladan reported with a certain amount of relief as he joined them.
"The yrch have taken him," the wounded elf gasped out. "Along with those few who still live."
Elrohir clasped the wounded elf's hands with his own. "Rest, kinsman. We will find the Prince. You have my word."
The elf nodded weakly & collapsed. One of the household elves came over to take Rána's place. "Go, Lady. I will see to him."
Rána clambered to her feet & joined her brothers. "We should have no trouble following their trail," Aragorn said calmly, then glanced towards the sky. "And nightfall is still hours away. We can catch them quickly enough; the orcs will not travel in daylight."
Elrohir nodded. "We must follow. I will leave enough men here to see to the fallen. The company is in your hands now, Brother. Lead us."
Aragorn gestured for Rána to accompany him. But he had been right; the orcs' trail was extremely easy to find. It headed northeast again, towards the Misty Mountains. The smaller company set out again, with Aragorn ranging ahead to scout out the land. Rána rode just behind him; she knew little about these lands, but took the opportunity to watch her brother work & learn from him.
By mid-afternoon, the pair found what they were seeking. Aragorn sent Rána back to guide the others to the site.
At his instructions, they dismounted & he quietly led them to a tree-lined clearing. All around it, taking shelter in the shadows of those trees, were nearly a dozen sleeping orcs. In the center of the clearing, guarded by two obviously unhappy orcs, were another half dozen elves. They were bound hand & foot & tethered together to further prevent any escape. To one side was another captive, bound to a lightning-blasted oak & guarded by two more orcs. The captive's head was bowed & his long, pale blonde hair hid his face. A nasty gash dripped blood down one leg.
Elrohir nodded grimly when he saw the prisoner, his expression dark He gestured for everyone to pull back.
At a safe distance, he began to issue orders. They had enough fighters to deal with the orcs – barely. "Rána, I charge you with protecting the Prince. Free him if you can, but see that he stays alive. Leave the rest to us."
She nodded stiffly. Aragorn took her & a few of the Elves & began to work his way around the encampment to a spot near the Prince. They got as close as they dared, then waited for Elrohir's signal. Rána gripped the hilt & sheath of her sword in sweating hands, thoroughly frightened now. But she was just as determined to prove herself. So she waited beside her brother quietly
A yell from the opposite side of the clearing signaled the attack. Aragorn held up his hand, waiting for the majority of the orcs to awaken & rush off towards that side. Then his hand dropped & he lunged forward, crying, "Elendil!"
The two orcs guarding the Prince turned towards them with drawn weapons. Then one spun towards the captive, his intentions clear as he raised his scimitar. Aragorn sprinted across the remaining distance & caught the descending blade with his own sword. The force of his counter- blow spun the orc back to face him. The fight was fierce, but short as the orc was no match for the Ranger.
Rána faced the other guard, Araráto firmly gripped in both her hands. Seeing his opponent was a female, the orc sneered & laughed – & quickly died. Rána drove her blade through its foul heart in a single thrust.
Aragorn brought his sword up to salute her. "Well done, Little One," he said approvingly. "Now – see to the Prince."
He raced across the clearing, followed by the elves, to ambush the remaining orcs from behind. Rána looked around quickly to make sure there were no enemies in her immediate vicinity, then turned towards the captive. Araráto sliced through the ropes binding him to the tree like they were mere thread. She caught the Prince around the waist & eased him to the ground, using the tree trunk as a backrest. Laying the sword at her side, she drew her dagger to finish freeing him.
"My lord," she said quietly, but with a certain urgency, as she leaned over to inspect his wound.
His eyes opened to lock with hers. Their brilliant blue seemed to pierce right through her & take her breath away. But he also seemed nearly as startled as she was.
"Who…?" he began, catching at her arm.
"Silmariën, daughter of Arathorn," she replied with a slight smile. She was finally getting used to that reaction… Then she saw the Prince's expression change as he looked beyond her.
"Lady! Beware!" he shouted.
Rána dropped her dagger & grabbed for the sword even as she was turning. Araráto came up in time to block the orc's blade as it descended towards her. She clenched her teeth & exerted every ounce of strength to try & turn the blow. But her kneeling position put her at a disadvantage & the orc was stronger than she was. The foul creature laughed as he began to force her down.
Then a streak of gray flashed in beside her. Prince Legolas had her dagger in hand & drove it into the orc's exposed chest, through a seam in its crude armor. The orc's expression changed to one of disbelief as his blood sprayed over Rána & the Prince. Rána turned her head as the stench & sight threatened to overwhelm her. Then she gathered herself up & swung her sword, taking the orc's head cleanly. The body fell away & she sank back on her heels, gasping for breath.
"Rána!" she heard Aragorn's shout & he was suddenly kneeling beside her. "Little One! Are you all right?"
She managed to nod, fighting back the nausea rising in her throat. "I'm fine!" she gasped. "He didn't touch me…"
Aragorn's expression darkened. "Where was your head, Sister? I warned you to be alert!" he snapped.
"Do not be angry with her, Dúnadan," the Prince interposed quickly. "She was seeing to my wound. If you want to blame anyone, blame me for not watching her back more carefully."
Aragorn's face changed like lightning at his words. "Legolas, my friend, forgive me. I had forgotten you were hurt."
Elrohir & Elladan appeared beside the threesome. Elladan had the healing kit in his hands. "Kinsman," Elrohir said, gripping the fair- haired elf's arm in greeting, "I am glad to see you alive."
Legolas returned the gesture as he sank back against the tree. Aragorn & Rána began to work on the gash on his leg. "I am glad to be alive, my friends. How did you know…?"
"One of your companions managed to reach us with news of your plight. Father sent out everyone he could spare to find you."
Legolas gave a sigh, then grimaced as Aragorn tightened the bandage. "Easy, Dúnadan. I do want to be able to walk… eventually."
Aragorn smiled at the comment. "You will … eventually. But that should be enough to get you away here." He looked at the twins. "I assume we do not want to spend the night here."
Elrohir looked up at the westering sun & nodded. "We would do well to get as far away as we can. I don't know how soon these will be missed," he gestured at the dead orcs. "But it is not wise to stay near them."
"I think they were sent out to ambush us," Legolas supplied. "Somehow, they knew where we would be." He hesitated & his eyes dropped. "How many…?"
Elrohir understood the question. "About half your company. Besides your companions here, the elf who warned us still lives. As does one of those left behind where you were ambushed. Rána discovered him." He smiled at the young woman.
Legolas bowed his head to her. "My thanks, Lady Silmariën. For protecting my kindred – & myself."
"You are very welcome, Prince Legolas," Rána replied quietly. She had managed to wipe most of the orc's blood from her face & arms, but her face was unnaturally pale & her manner very subdued.
"Come!" Elrohir said briskly, spring back to his feet. "Let us get away from this evil place."
The sun has beginning to set as the party finally found a sight for a camp. A sheltered glade near a stream would do very well for the night. Legolas & the remaining members of his company were settled & tended to first, then a small fire was lit.
Aragorn suddenly realized Rána was nowhere to be seen. He looked over at her horse & saw that it had been attended to, so she had – at least – done that. He sprang to his feet to look for her.
Elrohir caught his arm. "She went to the stream," he nodded to an area beyond the trees. "To bathe. Remember, my brother, today was the first time she has faced death. She will have need of wisdom, not harsh words."
Aragorn nodded. He returned to his gear to rummage through his own pack, then headed towards the stream.
The sound of crying led him to Rána. She was submerged in a small pool in a bend of the stream, scrubbing at her skin with a stone. Her water-soaked clothing was scattered along the bank; apparently she had tried to wash the blood from that as well. She paused to swipe at her eyes with the back of her hand, stifling another sob as she did so. Aragorn closed his eyes, remembering how he'd felt after his first real taste of battle. He knew exactly what his sister was going through – & how to help her.
"Silmariën," he called, softly but clearly, not wanting to frighten her.
At the sound of his voice, Rána gasped & sank deeper into the water. She swiped at her eyes again then, slowly, turned to face him.
"Estel? What… what are you doing here?"
He moved closer to the pond & found a place to sit down. "I was worried about you," he said quietly. "Aside from the fact it isn't safe to be alone out here,…"
"I… I wanted to bathe," Rána replied quickly, her breath catching as she struggled to control another sob. "I … I didn't think it a good idea to bring any of the others with me…."
Aragorn smiled at her words. "A valid point, Little One. But you should come out of the water… soon. The air will be cool once the sun sets & I don't want you becoming ill. Here, I brought a spare tunic & my cloak for you to put on."
He set the items he'd pulled from his pack on the ground close to the water, then got up & turned to walk back towards the trees – giving Rána a chance to leave the water without his seeing her unclad body. He heard the splash as she stood up & waded out of the pool, then the rustling of fabric as she dried off & dressed. After a few minutes, she said, "You can turn around."
He turned to find her wrapping his cloak around her body for warmth & cover. His tunic was long enough for her – barely, but the cloak made up for the … inadequacies. He walked over to her & tilted her face up to study it. Her face was very pale, her eyes wide with reaction & reddened from her crying.
"I was … so … frightened…," she whispered & buried her face in his chest. Aragorn wrapped his arms around her & cradled her against him.
"Shh, Little One. It's all right," he said gently. "You had every right to be frightened. And may you always be frightened, going into battle."
Rána gasped & pulled back to stare at him. "What… what do you mean?"
"You should always fear battle, Little Sister. The day you stop fearing it is the day you stop being… human."
He settled back down on the ground & pulled her down beside him. "Battle is an ugly, terrible thing, Silmariën – as is killing. But it is often necessary to protect what we care for… especially now. Those who serve the Enemy give us little choice. It is they who do not fear battle – or killing."
Rána sighed softly & curled up against him. After a few moments' hesitation, she said, "It was stupid of me to put down the sword… & not pay attention to what was going on."
Aragorn shook his head, "No, Little One, it was not… stupid. A little careless, perhaps – but not stupid. I told you to 'see' to Prince Legolas. It's a bit difficult to treat a wound when one of your hands is holding a sword. And you did set it close by, where you could reach it easily enough. Your instincts were good – as were your reflexes!"
He turned her face so he could look at her directly. "You did very well, Silmariën. I am proud of you. And I shall be eternally grateful to Legolas for stabbing that orc as he did. My fear for you is what prompted my harshness."
Rána pulled back & shifted into a more comfortable position. "What happened when you … went into battle the first time?" she asked
Aragorn hesitated. "You do not want to know," Elrohir's voice answered for him, a hint of laughter in it. He & Elladan emerged from the trees to join them. "Are you well, Little Sister?" he asked in gentle concern.
Rána flushed, but nodded. "I'm afraid I was… terribly sick…," she admitted in a small, very embarrassed voice. All three men smiled.
"That is not overly surprising," Elrohir said with a laugh. "Orcs are the vilest, foulest creatures in all Middle-earth. Their stench alone turns the stomach of the mightiest warrior – doesn't it, Estel?" he asked slyly.
Dull color flooded Aragorn's face at the teasing dig. Rána's head snapped around to stare at him. "You?" her tone was one of total disbelief.
Aragorn glared at the twins. "You had to bring that up!" he muttered uncomfortably. "Yes, Little Sister, me. I, too, was 'terribly sick' the first time I killed an orc." He shook his head at the memory. "I was all of fifteen at the time. And we will leave it at that!" he said firmly.
"How do you feel now?" Elrohir asked Rána, who was still staring at her brother is disbelief.
"Ummm," She was caught off-guard by the question. "Better … I think." Her hand went to her stomach. "It's quit rebelling finally."
"Good." Elrohir brought out a flash of wine & a loaf of bread. "Eat & drink some of this. It will help you feel better. Then, I think, sleep would be best. You will feel much better in the morning."
When the company returned to Rivendell, they were met by Elrond & most of the household. Rána swung her leg over her horse's neck & dropped to the ground as Elrond reached them. He helped Legolas, who had been riding behind her, down & supported him while Legolas tested his injured leg.
"Elbereth be thanked," Elrond said. "I feared for you, kinsman. How badly are you hurt?"
"It is nothing serious," Legolas replied. "The Dúnadan & your sons have taken care of it. My thanks for sending aid so quickly. I think those orcs were hungry for…elven flesh."
"Come within. We have rooms ready for you & your companions. You shall be our guests while you mend. I assume your father was sending you here for a reason…"
He led Legolas into the house, other members of the household aiding the rest of the woodlands party. Rána found her brother at her side.
"Come, Little One. Let's see to our animals, then our own needs."
He draped an arm around her shoulder as they led their horses to the stables.
By the time they were done grooming & feeding the animals, an elf had come to the stables looking for them. Elrond wanted to see them right away.
Aragorn & Rána exchanged long-suffering looks but followed him to Elrond's study. The half-Elven lord was alone.
"Come & sit, both of you," He gestured to the chairs in front of the fireplace. He leaned against the side of it so he could look at both of them.
"I would hear your… assessment of what happened," he said quietly. "I have spoken with Legolas & with your brothers. What do you think of Legolas' idea that the orcs knew where they would be?"
Rána settled back in her hair, letting Aragorn answer the question. It was something he would know more about than she did. After several minutes, Elrond looked at her.
"And you, foster daughter? Legolas spoke highly of your bravery – & skill in protecting him."
Rána's cheeks flushed with embarrassment & she dropped her head. "I did what Elrohir & Estel told me to do, nothing more. But I was… terrified the entire time…" she finished softly.
Elrond crossed over to stand in front of her & put his hand under her chin, lifting it until she looked up at him. There was a gentle smile on his face. "That is what I hoped to hear from you, my child. It means you have learned your lessons well. You may have been terrified, but you did what you had to in spite of that. You have brought considerable honor to this house & to yourself. Thranduil of Mirkwood will be very grateful."
"But – I didn't do anything special…" Rána protested, her cheeks growing hotter.
Elrond's smile grew. "Now you are starting to sound just like Estel!" He chuckled. "Perhaps, we have taught the two of you to be too humble. But come. There shall be a celebration this night. And the two of you need to clean yourselves up before we will let you come to table…"
Rána's eyes lit up with mischief as she sprang to her feet. She looked at her brother. "Bet I can be ready before you!" she crowed & darted out of the room.
Aragorn looked at Elrond, his own eyes alight with amusement. "And here I thought she had grown up!" he said with a mock sigh.
"Let her have her fun now, my son," Elrond advised. "I fear she shall have to be grown up far too soon, now."
Ensconced in her favorite place on the great terrace, Rána sighed as she tilted her face back to catch the sunshine. She hoped its warmth would bake away her headache. She also hoped her brother, closeted with Elrond in his study, had as bad a headache as she did. They had drunk far too much wine the night before. Slowly, the sun's warmth & the comforting sound of the Bruinen lulled Rána into a light doze.
The sound of shouting snapped her awake in an instant. She sprang to her feet &, gathering up her skirts, ran for the main courtyard where the noise was coming from. She paused at the top of the stairs to see what was happening. One of Elrond's household was holding a horse, wild-eyed & soaked with sweat. Several others were gathered around Elrohir, who knelt beside a prone figure. Then Rána saw the blood staining the stranger's tunic & she darted down to join her foster brother.
"Who is he?" she asked quickly as she helped Elrohir staunch the wound. "What happened?"
"He is one of Thranduil's folk, out of Mirkwood. I have no idea what happened," Elrohir replied. "Except – that," He nodded towards a broken arrow laying on the ground beside him, "is an orc arrow! "
Rána inhaled sharply, then became aware of Aragorn & Elrond as they arrived. Elrond immediately took charge. Elrohir & Rána had controlled the bleeding enough to get the stranger into the house, where Elrond took over tending him.
Finally the forest Elf was considered out of danger. Normally Elrond would have let him sleep, but he sensed the matter was much too urgent. So he reluctantly roused his patient. The younger Elf's eyes snapped open & he stared up at the Half-Elven lord in panic, then recognized him. He struggled to sit up, but Elrond restrained him.
"Gently, youngling. You are safe. How come you here in such a manner?"
The elf clutched at his arm. "Lord Elrond, you must help us! Our party was set upon by orcs, not far from your borders. Prince Legolas is with us…!"
Rána saw her foster father stiffen & heard her brother's exclamation. "Thranduil's son?" Aragorn said sharply. "Where is he now?"
The elf shook his head weakly. "I do not know, Dúnadan. He sent me for help. But the yrch outnumbered us greatly! I fear…"
He said nothing else, fainting from the loss of blood.
Elrond turned to them. "Change quickly," he ordered. "We will send what strength we can to aid – or avenge – the Prince."
Rána hesitated, looking at her brother. He nodded. "Get your things. You ride with us."
Rána raced for her room, tugging at the lacing of her gown as she ran. Arwen was there, waiting for her. She helped Rána change into garments similar to those her brother wore as a Ranger, then handed the younger woman her sword & dagger. She watched quietly as Rána secured the sword belt around her waist.
"Take care, Little Sister," she said quietly. "This is no sword drill you face."
Rána looked at her, nerves & a touch of fear in her eyes. "I know. I will."
She darted out of the room & headed for the courtyard. The twins & Aragorn were there ahead of her, along with a large group of Elven warriors & horses. She took the reins of the gray she always favored & swung up onto its back. Aragorn, on Roheryn, joined her.
"Stay close, Little One," he instructed. "And stay alert."
She nodded wordlessly as Elrond joined them. "You will need this, daughter." He secured a healer's pack to her saddle, then turned to address the group. "If you ride quickly, you can reach the border before midday. Do whatever you can to aid the Prince. For the sake of our friendship with Mirkwood." He raised a hand in blessing. "Elbereth will guide you."
They all bowed, touching fingers to forehead & lips. With Elrohir & Elladan leading, the company galloped out of Rivendell & took the path towards the East.
Rána rode beside her brother, a mixture of excitement & dread churning in her stomach. She was facing battle – & death – for the first time. Aragorn sensed her nervousness.
"You will do fine, Rána," he said calmly. "Just remember what you have been taught."
Pushing their horses, the company reached the eastern edge of Rivendell in little more than an hour. They paused while Aragorn scouted for tracks to show them what direction to take. He finally spotted the single set of hoofprints coming from the northeast & the company rode in that direction.
After more hard riding, they came upon a horrible sight. In a hollow surrounded by low hills, were the remnants of a terrible fight. The bodies of a half dozen elves lay in the center of the hollow, surrounded by nearly twice that many dead orcs. Fearing the worst, Elrohir & Elladan rode to the elves & dismounted to begin searching among them. Rána slipped out of her saddle & leaned against the horse's shoulder, sickened by what she saw. Then a faint sound caught her attention. She ducked around the horse's neck to find one elf, laying a little apart from the others. She saw his hand move slightly & realized he was still alive.
"Brothers!" she shouted & dashed over to kneel beside him. He'd been slashed along his rib cage by an orc's blade. "The healer's kit! Bring it! Hurry!"
Elrohir & Aragorn appeared at her side, Elrohir handing her the healer's bag as he & Aragorn dropped to their knees to help treat the injured elf. Between the three of them, the bleeding was quickly stopped & the wound bandaged. Rána raised the elf's head to rest in her lap, while Aragorn trickled some wine between his lips. The elf came to with a start.
"No!" he shouted, struggling to sit up. "You cannot…!"
Elrohir caught him by the shoulders & pressed him back. "Be calm, kinsman. It is over."
The elf stared up at him wild-eyed until he finally recognized him. "Lord Elrohir," he gasped. "The Prince! You must help him!"
"Legolas is not here," Elladan reported with a certain amount of relief as he joined them.
"The yrch have taken him," the wounded elf gasped out. "Along with those few who still live."
Elrohir clasped the wounded elf's hands with his own. "Rest, kinsman. We will find the Prince. You have my word."
The elf nodded weakly & collapsed. One of the household elves came over to take Rána's place. "Go, Lady. I will see to him."
Rána clambered to her feet & joined her brothers. "We should have no trouble following their trail," Aragorn said calmly, then glanced towards the sky. "And nightfall is still hours away. We can catch them quickly enough; the orcs will not travel in daylight."
Elrohir nodded. "We must follow. I will leave enough men here to see to the fallen. The company is in your hands now, Brother. Lead us."
Aragorn gestured for Rána to accompany him. But he had been right; the orcs' trail was extremely easy to find. It headed northeast again, towards the Misty Mountains. The smaller company set out again, with Aragorn ranging ahead to scout out the land. Rána rode just behind him; she knew little about these lands, but took the opportunity to watch her brother work & learn from him.
By mid-afternoon, the pair found what they were seeking. Aragorn sent Rána back to guide the others to the site.
At his instructions, they dismounted & he quietly led them to a tree-lined clearing. All around it, taking shelter in the shadows of those trees, were nearly a dozen sleeping orcs. In the center of the clearing, guarded by two obviously unhappy orcs, were another half dozen elves. They were bound hand & foot & tethered together to further prevent any escape. To one side was another captive, bound to a lightning-blasted oak & guarded by two more orcs. The captive's head was bowed & his long, pale blonde hair hid his face. A nasty gash dripped blood down one leg.
Elrohir nodded grimly when he saw the prisoner, his expression dark He gestured for everyone to pull back.
At a safe distance, he began to issue orders. They had enough fighters to deal with the orcs – barely. "Rána, I charge you with protecting the Prince. Free him if you can, but see that he stays alive. Leave the rest to us."
She nodded stiffly. Aragorn took her & a few of the Elves & began to work his way around the encampment to a spot near the Prince. They got as close as they dared, then waited for Elrohir's signal. Rána gripped the hilt & sheath of her sword in sweating hands, thoroughly frightened now. But she was just as determined to prove herself. So she waited beside her brother quietly
A yell from the opposite side of the clearing signaled the attack. Aragorn held up his hand, waiting for the majority of the orcs to awaken & rush off towards that side. Then his hand dropped & he lunged forward, crying, "Elendil!"
The two orcs guarding the Prince turned towards them with drawn weapons. Then one spun towards the captive, his intentions clear as he raised his scimitar. Aragorn sprinted across the remaining distance & caught the descending blade with his own sword. The force of his counter- blow spun the orc back to face him. The fight was fierce, but short as the orc was no match for the Ranger.
Rána faced the other guard, Araráto firmly gripped in both her hands. Seeing his opponent was a female, the orc sneered & laughed – & quickly died. Rána drove her blade through its foul heart in a single thrust.
Aragorn brought his sword up to salute her. "Well done, Little One," he said approvingly. "Now – see to the Prince."
He raced across the clearing, followed by the elves, to ambush the remaining orcs from behind. Rána looked around quickly to make sure there were no enemies in her immediate vicinity, then turned towards the captive. Araráto sliced through the ropes binding him to the tree like they were mere thread. She caught the Prince around the waist & eased him to the ground, using the tree trunk as a backrest. Laying the sword at her side, she drew her dagger to finish freeing him.
"My lord," she said quietly, but with a certain urgency, as she leaned over to inspect his wound.
His eyes opened to lock with hers. Their brilliant blue seemed to pierce right through her & take her breath away. But he also seemed nearly as startled as she was.
"Who…?" he began, catching at her arm.
"Silmariën, daughter of Arathorn," she replied with a slight smile. She was finally getting used to that reaction… Then she saw the Prince's expression change as he looked beyond her.
"Lady! Beware!" he shouted.
Rána dropped her dagger & grabbed for the sword even as she was turning. Araráto came up in time to block the orc's blade as it descended towards her. She clenched her teeth & exerted every ounce of strength to try & turn the blow. But her kneeling position put her at a disadvantage & the orc was stronger than she was. The foul creature laughed as he began to force her down.
Then a streak of gray flashed in beside her. Prince Legolas had her dagger in hand & drove it into the orc's exposed chest, through a seam in its crude armor. The orc's expression changed to one of disbelief as his blood sprayed over Rána & the Prince. Rána turned her head as the stench & sight threatened to overwhelm her. Then she gathered herself up & swung her sword, taking the orc's head cleanly. The body fell away & she sank back on her heels, gasping for breath.
"Rána!" she heard Aragorn's shout & he was suddenly kneeling beside her. "Little One! Are you all right?"
She managed to nod, fighting back the nausea rising in her throat. "I'm fine!" she gasped. "He didn't touch me…"
Aragorn's expression darkened. "Where was your head, Sister? I warned you to be alert!" he snapped.
"Do not be angry with her, Dúnadan," the Prince interposed quickly. "She was seeing to my wound. If you want to blame anyone, blame me for not watching her back more carefully."
Aragorn's face changed like lightning at his words. "Legolas, my friend, forgive me. I had forgotten you were hurt."
Elrohir & Elladan appeared beside the threesome. Elladan had the healing kit in his hands. "Kinsman," Elrohir said, gripping the fair- haired elf's arm in greeting, "I am glad to see you alive."
Legolas returned the gesture as he sank back against the tree. Aragorn & Rána began to work on the gash on his leg. "I am glad to be alive, my friends. How did you know…?"
"One of your companions managed to reach us with news of your plight. Father sent out everyone he could spare to find you."
Legolas gave a sigh, then grimaced as Aragorn tightened the bandage. "Easy, Dúnadan. I do want to be able to walk… eventually."
Aragorn smiled at the comment. "You will … eventually. But that should be enough to get you away here." He looked at the twins. "I assume we do not want to spend the night here."
Elrohir looked up at the westering sun & nodded. "We would do well to get as far away as we can. I don't know how soon these will be missed," he gestured at the dead orcs. "But it is not wise to stay near them."
"I think they were sent out to ambush us," Legolas supplied. "Somehow, they knew where we would be." He hesitated & his eyes dropped. "How many…?"
Elrohir understood the question. "About half your company. Besides your companions here, the elf who warned us still lives. As does one of those left behind where you were ambushed. Rána discovered him." He smiled at the young woman.
Legolas bowed his head to her. "My thanks, Lady Silmariën. For protecting my kindred – & myself."
"You are very welcome, Prince Legolas," Rána replied quietly. She had managed to wipe most of the orc's blood from her face & arms, but her face was unnaturally pale & her manner very subdued.
"Come!" Elrohir said briskly, spring back to his feet. "Let us get away from this evil place."
The sun has beginning to set as the party finally found a sight for a camp. A sheltered glade near a stream would do very well for the night. Legolas & the remaining members of his company were settled & tended to first, then a small fire was lit.
Aragorn suddenly realized Rána was nowhere to be seen. He looked over at her horse & saw that it had been attended to, so she had – at least – done that. He sprang to his feet to look for her.
Elrohir caught his arm. "She went to the stream," he nodded to an area beyond the trees. "To bathe. Remember, my brother, today was the first time she has faced death. She will have need of wisdom, not harsh words."
Aragorn nodded. He returned to his gear to rummage through his own pack, then headed towards the stream.
The sound of crying led him to Rána. She was submerged in a small pool in a bend of the stream, scrubbing at her skin with a stone. Her water-soaked clothing was scattered along the bank; apparently she had tried to wash the blood from that as well. She paused to swipe at her eyes with the back of her hand, stifling another sob as she did so. Aragorn closed his eyes, remembering how he'd felt after his first real taste of battle. He knew exactly what his sister was going through – & how to help her.
"Silmariën," he called, softly but clearly, not wanting to frighten her.
At the sound of his voice, Rána gasped & sank deeper into the water. She swiped at her eyes again then, slowly, turned to face him.
"Estel? What… what are you doing here?"
He moved closer to the pond & found a place to sit down. "I was worried about you," he said quietly. "Aside from the fact it isn't safe to be alone out here,…"
"I… I wanted to bathe," Rána replied quickly, her breath catching as she struggled to control another sob. "I … I didn't think it a good idea to bring any of the others with me…."
Aragorn smiled at her words. "A valid point, Little One. But you should come out of the water… soon. The air will be cool once the sun sets & I don't want you becoming ill. Here, I brought a spare tunic & my cloak for you to put on."
He set the items he'd pulled from his pack on the ground close to the water, then got up & turned to walk back towards the trees – giving Rána a chance to leave the water without his seeing her unclad body. He heard the splash as she stood up & waded out of the pool, then the rustling of fabric as she dried off & dressed. After a few minutes, she said, "You can turn around."
He turned to find her wrapping his cloak around her body for warmth & cover. His tunic was long enough for her – barely, but the cloak made up for the … inadequacies. He walked over to her & tilted her face up to study it. Her face was very pale, her eyes wide with reaction & reddened from her crying.
"I was … so … frightened…," she whispered & buried her face in his chest. Aragorn wrapped his arms around her & cradled her against him.
"Shh, Little One. It's all right," he said gently. "You had every right to be frightened. And may you always be frightened, going into battle."
Rána gasped & pulled back to stare at him. "What… what do you mean?"
"You should always fear battle, Little Sister. The day you stop fearing it is the day you stop being… human."
He settled back down on the ground & pulled her down beside him. "Battle is an ugly, terrible thing, Silmariën – as is killing. But it is often necessary to protect what we care for… especially now. Those who serve the Enemy give us little choice. It is they who do not fear battle – or killing."
Rána sighed softly & curled up against him. After a few moments' hesitation, she said, "It was stupid of me to put down the sword… & not pay attention to what was going on."
Aragorn shook his head, "No, Little One, it was not… stupid. A little careless, perhaps – but not stupid. I told you to 'see' to Prince Legolas. It's a bit difficult to treat a wound when one of your hands is holding a sword. And you did set it close by, where you could reach it easily enough. Your instincts were good – as were your reflexes!"
He turned her face so he could look at her directly. "You did very well, Silmariën. I am proud of you. And I shall be eternally grateful to Legolas for stabbing that orc as he did. My fear for you is what prompted my harshness."
Rána pulled back & shifted into a more comfortable position. "What happened when you … went into battle the first time?" she asked
Aragorn hesitated. "You do not want to know," Elrohir's voice answered for him, a hint of laughter in it. He & Elladan emerged from the trees to join them. "Are you well, Little Sister?" he asked in gentle concern.
Rána flushed, but nodded. "I'm afraid I was… terribly sick…," she admitted in a small, very embarrassed voice. All three men smiled.
"That is not overly surprising," Elrohir said with a laugh. "Orcs are the vilest, foulest creatures in all Middle-earth. Their stench alone turns the stomach of the mightiest warrior – doesn't it, Estel?" he asked slyly.
Dull color flooded Aragorn's face at the teasing dig. Rána's head snapped around to stare at him. "You?" her tone was one of total disbelief.
Aragorn glared at the twins. "You had to bring that up!" he muttered uncomfortably. "Yes, Little Sister, me. I, too, was 'terribly sick' the first time I killed an orc." He shook his head at the memory. "I was all of fifteen at the time. And we will leave it at that!" he said firmly.
"How do you feel now?" Elrohir asked Rána, who was still staring at her brother is disbelief.
"Ummm," She was caught off-guard by the question. "Better … I think." Her hand went to her stomach. "It's quit rebelling finally."
"Good." Elrohir brought out a flash of wine & a loaf of bread. "Eat & drink some of this. It will help you feel better. Then, I think, sleep would be best. You will feel much better in the morning."
When the company returned to Rivendell, they were met by Elrond & most of the household. Rána swung her leg over her horse's neck & dropped to the ground as Elrond reached them. He helped Legolas, who had been riding behind her, down & supported him while Legolas tested his injured leg.
"Elbereth be thanked," Elrond said. "I feared for you, kinsman. How badly are you hurt?"
"It is nothing serious," Legolas replied. "The Dúnadan & your sons have taken care of it. My thanks for sending aid so quickly. I think those orcs were hungry for…elven flesh."
"Come within. We have rooms ready for you & your companions. You shall be our guests while you mend. I assume your father was sending you here for a reason…"
He led Legolas into the house, other members of the household aiding the rest of the woodlands party. Rána found her brother at her side.
"Come, Little One. Let's see to our animals, then our own needs."
He draped an arm around her shoulder as they led their horses to the stables.
By the time they were done grooming & feeding the animals, an elf had come to the stables looking for them. Elrond wanted to see them right away.
Aragorn & Rána exchanged long-suffering looks but followed him to Elrond's study. The half-Elven lord was alone.
"Come & sit, both of you," He gestured to the chairs in front of the fireplace. He leaned against the side of it so he could look at both of them.
"I would hear your… assessment of what happened," he said quietly. "I have spoken with Legolas & with your brothers. What do you think of Legolas' idea that the orcs knew where they would be?"
Rána settled back in her hair, letting Aragorn answer the question. It was something he would know more about than she did. After several minutes, Elrond looked at her.
"And you, foster daughter? Legolas spoke highly of your bravery – & skill in protecting him."
Rána's cheeks flushed with embarrassment & she dropped her head. "I did what Elrohir & Estel told me to do, nothing more. But I was… terrified the entire time…" she finished softly.
Elrond crossed over to stand in front of her & put his hand under her chin, lifting it until she looked up at him. There was a gentle smile on his face. "That is what I hoped to hear from you, my child. It means you have learned your lessons well. You may have been terrified, but you did what you had to in spite of that. You have brought considerable honor to this house & to yourself. Thranduil of Mirkwood will be very grateful."
"But – I didn't do anything special…" Rána protested, her cheeks growing hotter.
Elrond's smile grew. "Now you are starting to sound just like Estel!" He chuckled. "Perhaps, we have taught the two of you to be too humble. But come. There shall be a celebration this night. And the two of you need to clean yourselves up before we will let you come to table…"
Rána's eyes lit up with mischief as she sprang to her feet. She looked at her brother. "Bet I can be ready before you!" she crowed & darted out of the room.
Aragorn looked at Elrond, his own eyes alight with amusement. "And here I thought she had grown up!" he said with a mock sigh.
"Let her have her fun now, my son," Elrond advised. "I fear she shall have to be grown up far too soon, now."