Welcome to the new readers of this series, glad to have you aboard!!
Chapter 52--Revelations And Journey's End
Late the next day Legolas spotted riders coming towards them. and they were wearing Sarrin's colors. (It is Sarrin's men and they are right behind us. Tern leads them) he said.
(Do not worry, sweet cheeks. I am sure your new lady will protect you) Jaisia teased.
(She is NOT my lady) Legolas retorted. (I do not even like her)
The men got close enough where they were spotted and the group halted to wait for them to approach. When they got close enough Tern detached himself from the group and rode over.
"What do you want, dog of Sarrin?" Deirdre demanded.
"Those two are criminals that escaped custody. We were sent to bring them back," Tern said. "I demand you turn them over."
"You are not in the position to demand anything, these two are in my custody now and will be taken to Queen Jacinth. That is my duty as her captain of the guard, but if you wish you are welcome to fight for them," Deirdre challenged.
Tern didn't want to back down, but they were outnumbered and Jacinth's she warriors were well known as deadly fighters. "You will hear from King Sarrin about this insult. He will not be pleased," he said.
"Sarrin's displeasure or pleasure means nothing to me, go back and tell him. I do not care," Deirdre said.
Tern glared then rode back to his men then they galloped off towards Naviria.
"Captain of the guard?" Legolas demanded coldly.
"That is right. I suppose we can continue now," Deirdre said.
Legolas slid from her horse before she could protest and mounted Jaisia. He met her sharp scowl defiantly, daring her to protest.
Deirdre mock-sighed. "Very well and I thought we had something special between us," she said. "Ride, my soldiers, we are almost home!" Laughing, the band spurred their mounts into a gallop.
Four days later they finally stopped on a hill overlooking Tyr Gyleth. "There it is, the fairest city in the land," Deirdre said proudly.
The city wasn't large, but it had a wall and was surrounded by farmland. They rode to the gates where another soldier, also a woman saluted Deirdre and opened the gate for them. They rode to the barracks and suddenly Jaisia and Legolas found themselves surrounded.
"Now, you will tell me why you are here or enjoy a stay in prison until you speak," Deirdre said.
"Jaisia and I were sent by King Elessar of Minas Tirith in response to a message that was brought to him. We are his representatives," Legolas said.
Deirdre knew her Queen had sent a messenger to Minas Tirith. "Well then welcome to our city and my most humble apologies," she said and bowed.
Legolas returned it politely though he was still seething over how they had been treated.
"I will escort you to the palace immediately where you will be housed and allowed to refresh yourselves before meeting Queen Jacinth, follow me, please," Deirdre said.
Legolas and Jaisia exchanged relieved looks and followed Deirdre. It looked like everything would go smoothly now.
Deirdre took them to the palace and led them inside where they were met by a group of servants who bowed to Deirdre respectfully. "How may we serve you, lady?" one asked.
"Show our guests to the finest guest quarters in the palace and tend to their every need. They are diplomats from Minas Tirith in Gondor," Deirdre said.
The servants bowed and escorted Jaisia and Legolas away. Once they were gone Deirdre walked to the audience chamber and went inside.
Jacinth sat on her throne and smiled in greeting. "Is all well?" she asked.
"The diplomats from Minas Tirith are here," Deirdre said.
"That is welcome news, I feared they would not come," Jacinth said.
"I fear they had a run in with Sarrin," Deirdre said.
"Damn, are they well?" Jacinth asked.
"Yes, but I have a request to make about one of the diplomats," Deirdre said.
"Which is?" Jacinth asked.
"The right of Tol Aither," Deirdre said.
Jacinth gave her a thoughtful look. "As you wish, my sister," she said.
Tol Aither? Not telling what it is!! So There!! R/R please……