CHAPTER 27
NURN
The night was dark as a raven at the southern border of the realm once known as Ithilien, just north of Harondor. Two riders that pierced swiftly through the darkness stirred the quietness of the night; they were silent, and their rough, weathered faces were distressed. They had been riding without rest for almost four days and nights, and the accomplishment of their mission seemed to be an impossible task. Halbarad II looked over at his companion Herodir. - "How is he doing?"
Herodir leaned over the man he carried on his horse - "He is still unconscious, and he is starting to get cold, do you think he'll make it?"
"I don't know my friend, it is a miracle that he is still alive; but I doubt he'll make it all the way to Gondor, this mission is folly."
"I don't care if is folly or not, the General told us to take him to Gondor and I don't intend to fail him." - Herodir's voice was determined.
"No, neither do I, I just hope that all this is not in vain" - Halbarad II was not disloyal, he was just practical, as his grandfather the first Halbarad was; he had inherited all the skills of his forefather, along with his stubbornness. He suddenly slowed down sniffing the air around him and stopped his horse. - "Wait! There is a creek behind those trees. Come, the horses need to be watered."
They turned right from the main road and upon passing through a grove, they found a small creek. They both dismounted the animals, but left the moribund king on top on Antares, careful not to move him much, and lead them to the water. The weary horses were thankful for the fresh water, and while they drank, the rangers refilled their water skins.
Herodir cupped some water between his callused hands and washed his face; he was tired, and his body screamed for a good rest, but he wasn't willing to waste precious time. - "We should get going" - he said to Halbarad who had collapsed on top of a rock, completely exhausted.
Halbarad looked at him annoyed. - "Can't we rest for a few minutes? My back is killing me."
Herodir snorted at his groans - "What would the General say if he sees you like this, complaining like a little girl."
Halbarad immediately stood up and held the reins of his horse - "Shut up and move it!" - he said dryly, furious at the fact that the younger ranger was mocking him.
Herodir held back a grin and rubbed Antares's cheek with the tips of his fingers. - "You truly are a magnificent animal; I almost feel unworthy of riding you." - he whispered to the noble steed.
"Stop talking foolishness to that damn horse and let's get going."
"You speak dumbly because you had never ridden him, but you should respect such a noble animal, remember that he is most appreciated by the general."
"Yes, I know that he holds more esteem for this horse than for his whole army" - Halbarad said while lifting his arms to the sky - "All hail the white donkey!! Now let's go, weren't you the one who couldn't wait to go on?
Herodir decided not to pay attention to his disrespectful comment and checked the King. He had done his best to heal his wounds, but the venerable King had lost much blood and was terribly weak, and he feared he wouldn't resist much longer. - "Hang on your Majesty, only two more days, that's all we need" - he said mostly to himself, while wiping the sweat off of Aragorn's face with a clean cloth.
He was about to get back on his saddle when the King stirred and groaned almost inaudibly. Herodir cried out startled - "Halbarad, he awoke, come!"
Halbarad dismounted and ran to his side. Herodir was holding Aragorn's face with one hand and moistening his lips with a damp cloth. Aragorn stirred and tried to speak, but only guttural noises came out of his throat.
"Rest, your Majesty, save your breath" - But the King kept stirring and groaning. The rangers looked at each other helplessly and upon getting up on the horses again, they resumed their time race to Minas Tirith
The sound of the hoofs galloping madly didn't let the loyal rangers hear the only word that the king could articulate before falling back into the darkness of unconsciousness.
"Arwen"
..........................
At the lake in the Shadow Mountains, Arwen woke to a desperate cry that pierced all the way into the deepest fibers of her soul.
"Aragorn!" - she whispered as she sat up inside her shelter, her body completely covered with sweat. At that moment she knew that her husband was alive, but she also knew that his presence was fading, he was dying.
"No!" - she screamed, unable to contain herself. Alarmed, Legolas came running to the entrance of the shelter.
"Arwen! Are you well?"
...Silence...
"Arwen?"
"I am fine, Legolas; it was just a nightmare." - She said, as calmed as she could. Legolas knew that something else troubled her, but the dry tone of her voice dissuaded him from insisting furthermore.
"Try to sleep some more, dawn is close and we will depart with the first lights." - He told her cautiously, going back to where he was sitting all along. He hadn't slept; he didn't need to.
"I will."
"And, Arwen?"
"Yes?"
"Call me if you need anything."
"Thank you, Legolas."
She couldn't tell him that Aragorn was alive; after knowing all the things he had gone through because of his love for her, she didn't dare to tell him. She feared his reaction, remembering the furious, violent way in which he had acted the night before the battle, when he kissed her and she pulled back. She felt terrible for not trusting him, but she just couldn't tell him.
She laid down again and curled, wrapping her arms around her knees; hot tears dampened her face, and she felt overwhelmed by confusion. - What is to come now? - She thought to herself, fearing for her future, unable to foretell what destiny awaited her and the ones she loved.
The ones she loved; the thought suddenly became very disturbing. Who did she love? Did she love more than one? She examined herself, looking for an answer. Of course she loved Aragorn, since the very day she met him. But, what about Legolas? Everything had changed so much since she knew he loved her; and she couldn't deny that his presence was affecting her deeply. Feelings that she never thought to exist stirred inside of her with his closeness, and things that she thought to be dead long ago, resurfaced from beneath the memories of happier times shared with him.
She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to contain the tears that now streamed down her cheeks, and trying to decipher her own treacherous feelings; but most of all, she had to hold back the urge to run into Legolas' arms, the urge to tell him how she felt, and to find the comfort she needed in the warmth of his embrace. No, she couldn't let herself go; she knew that if she did that, she would've lost herself in his arms. Finally, loyalty proved to be stronger inside her heart, and she established her priorities.
"I must go to Aragorn." - She ordered herself. Upon feeling his fading presence in the distance, she promised him and herself that she would see him again, no matter what. - "I will be strong" - she assured herself - "For you and for me; cause I wont give up on you, and I will remain truth and loyal to our sacred bond..... no matter how hard it is." - Despite herself, her thoughts kept flying to the powerful presence just outside the shelter, but she held herself back; she wouldn't betray Aragorn.
Sitting by the fire, Legolas stared worriedly at the stars above, for he could feel the despair of her heart in the deepest of his soul; and sensed each and every one of her tears as if they were his own. He wanted to run to her side, to comfort her no matter what was wrong; but his heart discouraged him from doing so. Somehow he knew, that she wouldn't tell him what was wrong.
............................
Hours passed and dawn finally arrived. Arwen came out of the shelter and found Legolas busy preparing the departure.
"Good morning Arwen"
"Good morning" - she said hurriedly, and immediately went to the lake to wash her face. She didn't want him to see the trail of tears on her face, or her eyes as they were swollen and reddened. When she came back, Legolas noted that she seemed distant and elusive.
"Would you like to eat something before we go?" - he asked cautiously.
"No, I would like to go now, if it's possible"
He ignored the dryness of her tone and answered simply. - "Yes of course. I already prepared some provisions to take in case you get hungry later."
"Good; where are we going?"
He went closer to her and noted how she seemed to tense with his closeness. Fighting back the urge to ask her what the heck was wrong, he pointed to a narrower part of the lake. - "The river continues down that way. I figure we can follow the river path first, and then we can follow the mountain ridge on our right, that way we will eventually reach South Ithilien."
"How many days?"
"To Minas Tirith? Four, maybe five."
"That is too much" - she muttered under her breath - "Isn't there another way, to get there faster?"
"Yes, I suppose we can cross the river and go north; but we would have to go through the land of Nurn, right at the borders of Mordor; you must understand that it would be far too risky."
"How many days it would take if we go that way?"
"I can't be sure, but in terms if distance and obstacles, I would say two days."
"Then, I wish to go that way."
"Arwen, it is too dangerous, I don't know what creatures dwell in those lands, and they are still darkened by the shadow of Sauron."
"Legolas, I made my decision, I want to go that way." - she said firmly, talking to him as his Queen and not his friend.
He swallowed hard, trying his best to tolerate the strange way in which she was treating him - "Very well, as you wish" - He said bowing slightly. If she was going to treat him like a servant, then he would behave like one.
He picked up a bundle of provisions he had gathered and tied the spear he had made to his back. - "Come, we must find a proper place to ford the river." - he said without emotion; she followed him, and with that they began their trip.
They crossed the Harnen River a few miles to the west, where the river narrowed enough to permit them to cross without risk. Then, they traveled north, crossing the rest of the mountain range until they reached the southern borders of Nurn. From the heights of the Shadow Mountains, they could see that the land of Nurn was plain and regular, and a gloomy, coniferous forest that extended all the way to the horizon covered the totality of the land. Legolas raised his gaze to the north; with his keen eyesight he could see the horrid peaks that arose at the limits of the forest, the mountains of Mordor; and the very sight still made him shiver. Luckily, they wouldn't have to go near those dreaded peaks, they would have to cross the Nurn forest diagonally, heading northwest, until reaching North Ithilien; and then, they would just have to cross the Anduin to reach Minas Tirith.
They descended from the mountain range at midday, and continued their journey. Arwen was still distant, and avoided talking to him at all times. Every time he suggested stopping and resting for her sake, she would refuse stubbornly to do so, and demanded to continue. Legolas was growing tired from her mistreatment, but he didn't complaint and just kept going, according to her wishes.
They walked into the forest for three hours without eventualities, a cold silence standing like an invisible barrier between them. Then, exhaustion finally charged it's fee on her, and she tripped with a fallen log and scratched her legs on a spiky bush that happened to be right where she fell. Legolas came running to her side and helped her to untangle her legs from the thorny branches, cutting his own hands in the process.
"Are you well?" - he asked concerned, while finally liberating her from the bush. He helped her to stand up and she leaned on him for a moment, trying to recover from the wounds on her legs. Then, she realized how close he was and she pulled back in a sudden movement that sent her back to the ground; she landed on her rear end, fortunately away from the thorns.
"Aouch!"
"That's it! We are going to stop now, you need to rest."
"No, we cannot stop! We must go on."
He wiped the blood of his hands in his own body, leaving two ugly bloodstains in his torso. His face let show all the annoyance he was feeling; her behavior was finally getting on his nerves - "Look, I don't care how much you whine about it. We will stop, and you will rest! And not only that, you will also eat! Understood young lady!!" - he yelled to her as if she was one of his soldiers. Then without a chance for a reply, he tossed the lance to the ground and started unpacking the provisions. She tried to get up, but a thundering yell prevented her from doing so.
"Stay where you are! I said you have to rest. Didn't you hear me?" - she froze at the authority of his voice and stayed in place. He kneeled by her side and handed her a mixture of nuts, roots and wild berries - "Eat"
She looked at him bewildered. He ignored her - "Eat! Now!" - She decided to obey and took the food from his hands, quickly stuffing it in her mouth with a defying gesture. - "FINE!" - she said, with her mouth still stuffed. Then, as he carefully touched her leg to examine the wounds, she jerked back - "Don't touch me!"
He pulled back with noting but hurt in his eyes - "I was just trying to check your wounds. What is the matter with you? I am sick of your stiff- necked attitude and your rudeness. What have I done to deserve this, uh?
She lowered her head; she knew she was being mean to him. - "Nothing is the matter with me, Legolas. Besides, it is not of your concern."
"Not of my concern! I believe I am most affected by this, and I think you owe me an explanation!"
"I owe you nothing! You don't understand, just stay away from me!!"
He stood up and backed away from her slowly, his eyes were dilated and his mouth half opened; he was completely astonished, confused and terribly hurt. Arwen regretted the way she had yelled to him, but as she was about to apologize, a low rustle coming from the forest ahead interrupted her. Legolas froze, adopting at once a fighting stance. He gestured her to stay down and quiet; then slowly and silent like a shadow, he picked up the lance and moved forward to investigate.
As he advanced towards the noise, he could hear a rushed breathing, and the scent of blood and fear filled his nostrils; there was a creature there, he was sure; and whatever it was, it was wounded and really frightened. As he neared the source of the noise, he clenched his fist around his lance, preparing himself for the unexpected.
As he finally got to see the creature, he lowered his lance and sighed relieved; it was only a frightened, young deer. But soon enough, his body tensed, as the scent of blood came to him again and he saw a thick arrow firmly embedded below one of the deer's shoulder blades. - "Hunters" - he thought, wondering who could be hunting in such a lonely place. He neared the wounded animal, trying to get a closer look at the arrow, to see if maybe he could figure out who had shot it.
"Southern men" - he muttered.
"What is it?" - Arwen's voice startled him and he turned around to find her right behind where he was. He glared at her, but a sudden flicker of horror in her eyes made him turn around just in time to see a small, dark figure that was coming his way; and the tip of an arrow that was steadily pointing to his head, right between his eyes.
He froze, and regarded the creature; it was a southern woman, and she was alone. He noted that she was short of stature, but lean and very strong looking. She came closer to him and with her bow tensed and the arrow still aiming to his head, she yelled angrily, right at his face.
Arwen whimpered and hid behind a tree, but the woman's attention was totally focused on Legolas. Trying to calm her down, Legolas dropped the lance and raised his hands to her, showing his palms to her in a universal gesture of peace. He looked at her right in the eye, showing her that he had nothing to hide, and trying to make her understand with his steady gaze that he meant no harm to her. He continued examining her; her skin was smooth and tanned; her hair was dark and reddish, and curled wildly above his head, before cascading down to her back. Her features were strong, but feminine; her brows were thick, but stylish; her jaw strong; her nose was small but proud; her mouth was pursed into a thin line, a sign of nervousness, but also of concentration as she aimed. Her body was lean and nicely muscled, very strong and elegant despite the fact of being short.
But what caught his attention above all was the ebony blackness of her eyes. Her eyes were wild, defying and untamed; but completely honest and naïve at the same time. He examined her garments, trying to figure out what tribe she belonged to, but he quite place them. Off course he knew many of the dialects of the southern people, but he also knew that some of the tribes held deadly enmities towards each other, and that if he would speak in the wrong speech, he would only cause her to release her nervous grip, and he could end up with an arrow embedded in his skull.
Endless minutes went by in perfect silence, but then, glancing to the wounded deer, that was know lying on the ground, she finally broke the silence.
"My prey!" - she said angrily, with a strange, musical accent that made Legolas want to giggle. Off course he held it back, and was glad that she spoke common language.
"I respect your prey" - he said slowly, with a voice tone he knew was soothing to any creature.
"This is my territory!" - she said a little less angry, but still menacingly.
"I am sorry, I didn't know. I am just a traveler."
At that point, Arwen came from behind the tree and listened closely to their conversation.
"Not many travelers here. I don't trust you."
"I mean no harm to you, I swear. I apologize for disrespecting your hunting territory."
She seemed to finally calm down, and lowering her bow, she proceeded to examine the strange foreigner in front of her. - "I've never seen a man like you before in my life" - she said with her musical accent, while looking closely at Legolas' fair features.
Legolas smiled to her, trying to earn her trust, but it wasn't necessary, for a few moments later, she boldly raised a hand to touch his face. Legolas didn't move an inch, and she jerked and pulled back her hand at the contact with such smoothness; but she promptly restarted her exploration and this time touched his hair, her mouth half open in wonder. Legolas let her continue with her exploration, avoiding any sudden movement. He knew that if he would protest or move the wrong way, she would be startled and would get violent, or would be scared and would run away. She continued touching his hair and face with the tips of her fingers, marveling at the texture of the fascinating stranger; then, she let out a soft cry of surprise as she saw the tip of one of his ears, protruding from his golden mane.
"You are an elf!" - she cried out with amusement.
"That I am" - he said, as calmed as ever.
She looked at him for endless moments before saying another word - "I never thought I'd live to see a real elf; Kron told us there were no elves left in middle earth."
"Kron?"
"The leader of my people. But, what is an elf doing in Nurn anyway?"
"Like I said, I am just a traveler; and I am heading west as soon as I can."
"But, you don't carry provisions, or weapons, this is a dangerous territory to wander alone."
"I was attacked by wolves, in the land of Khand and lost all my provisions and weapons."
"Wolves?" - the mere word seemed to make her uncomfortable.
"But don't worry, they are all death now."
"Good; why don't you come with me; my city is close, and I can give you provisions, and maybe even a horse so you can continue with your journey. You'll never come out of Nurn traveling like this."
Legolas knew of the southern men's tradition of being kind to travelers in need, once they know they are no hazard to them; so her invitation did not surprised him - "You are very kind, but I must know first, how far is your..city?"
"Only one hour north form here, I will provide you with good things if you help me carry the deer, deal?"
Legolas thought little of it; the possibility of getting provisions and a horse added greatly to the chance of completing the journey - "Deal. My name is Legolas" - he said smiling friendly.
"Leg-go-lass" - she repeated slowly, with her funny accent. - "What a weird name."
Legolas snorted with amusement - "What is your name?"
"I am Nohemy"
.................................
Well, here it is. A new character was added to the mix; but don't worry, she will only bring lots of new emotions into the story. The Legolas and Arwen story will get a little bit more complicated and rich thanks to her; and all I can tell you is that jealousness will be involved.
Next chapter is named NOHEMY AND THE PEOPLE OF THE GREY CLIFFS. Legolas and Arwen will find lots of trouble and adventure in the Grey Cliffs, so stay tuned.
Thanks again to all the reviewers.
Elwe.
NURN
The night was dark as a raven at the southern border of the realm once known as Ithilien, just north of Harondor. Two riders that pierced swiftly through the darkness stirred the quietness of the night; they were silent, and their rough, weathered faces were distressed. They had been riding without rest for almost four days and nights, and the accomplishment of their mission seemed to be an impossible task. Halbarad II looked over at his companion Herodir. - "How is he doing?"
Herodir leaned over the man he carried on his horse - "He is still unconscious, and he is starting to get cold, do you think he'll make it?"
"I don't know my friend, it is a miracle that he is still alive; but I doubt he'll make it all the way to Gondor, this mission is folly."
"I don't care if is folly or not, the General told us to take him to Gondor and I don't intend to fail him." - Herodir's voice was determined.
"No, neither do I, I just hope that all this is not in vain" - Halbarad II was not disloyal, he was just practical, as his grandfather the first Halbarad was; he had inherited all the skills of his forefather, along with his stubbornness. He suddenly slowed down sniffing the air around him and stopped his horse. - "Wait! There is a creek behind those trees. Come, the horses need to be watered."
They turned right from the main road and upon passing through a grove, they found a small creek. They both dismounted the animals, but left the moribund king on top on Antares, careful not to move him much, and lead them to the water. The weary horses were thankful for the fresh water, and while they drank, the rangers refilled their water skins.
Herodir cupped some water between his callused hands and washed his face; he was tired, and his body screamed for a good rest, but he wasn't willing to waste precious time. - "We should get going" - he said to Halbarad who had collapsed on top of a rock, completely exhausted.
Halbarad looked at him annoyed. - "Can't we rest for a few minutes? My back is killing me."
Herodir snorted at his groans - "What would the General say if he sees you like this, complaining like a little girl."
Halbarad immediately stood up and held the reins of his horse - "Shut up and move it!" - he said dryly, furious at the fact that the younger ranger was mocking him.
Herodir held back a grin and rubbed Antares's cheek with the tips of his fingers. - "You truly are a magnificent animal; I almost feel unworthy of riding you." - he whispered to the noble steed.
"Stop talking foolishness to that damn horse and let's get going."
"You speak dumbly because you had never ridden him, but you should respect such a noble animal, remember that he is most appreciated by the general."
"Yes, I know that he holds more esteem for this horse than for his whole army" - Halbarad said while lifting his arms to the sky - "All hail the white donkey!! Now let's go, weren't you the one who couldn't wait to go on?
Herodir decided not to pay attention to his disrespectful comment and checked the King. He had done his best to heal his wounds, but the venerable King had lost much blood and was terribly weak, and he feared he wouldn't resist much longer. - "Hang on your Majesty, only two more days, that's all we need" - he said mostly to himself, while wiping the sweat off of Aragorn's face with a clean cloth.
He was about to get back on his saddle when the King stirred and groaned almost inaudibly. Herodir cried out startled - "Halbarad, he awoke, come!"
Halbarad dismounted and ran to his side. Herodir was holding Aragorn's face with one hand and moistening his lips with a damp cloth. Aragorn stirred and tried to speak, but only guttural noises came out of his throat.
"Rest, your Majesty, save your breath" - But the King kept stirring and groaning. The rangers looked at each other helplessly and upon getting up on the horses again, they resumed their time race to Minas Tirith
The sound of the hoofs galloping madly didn't let the loyal rangers hear the only word that the king could articulate before falling back into the darkness of unconsciousness.
"Arwen"
..........................
At the lake in the Shadow Mountains, Arwen woke to a desperate cry that pierced all the way into the deepest fibers of her soul.
"Aragorn!" - she whispered as she sat up inside her shelter, her body completely covered with sweat. At that moment she knew that her husband was alive, but she also knew that his presence was fading, he was dying.
"No!" - she screamed, unable to contain herself. Alarmed, Legolas came running to the entrance of the shelter.
"Arwen! Are you well?"
...Silence...
"Arwen?"
"I am fine, Legolas; it was just a nightmare." - She said, as calmed as she could. Legolas knew that something else troubled her, but the dry tone of her voice dissuaded him from insisting furthermore.
"Try to sleep some more, dawn is close and we will depart with the first lights." - He told her cautiously, going back to where he was sitting all along. He hadn't slept; he didn't need to.
"I will."
"And, Arwen?"
"Yes?"
"Call me if you need anything."
"Thank you, Legolas."
She couldn't tell him that Aragorn was alive; after knowing all the things he had gone through because of his love for her, she didn't dare to tell him. She feared his reaction, remembering the furious, violent way in which he had acted the night before the battle, when he kissed her and she pulled back. She felt terrible for not trusting him, but she just couldn't tell him.
She laid down again and curled, wrapping her arms around her knees; hot tears dampened her face, and she felt overwhelmed by confusion. - What is to come now? - She thought to herself, fearing for her future, unable to foretell what destiny awaited her and the ones she loved.
The ones she loved; the thought suddenly became very disturbing. Who did she love? Did she love more than one? She examined herself, looking for an answer. Of course she loved Aragorn, since the very day she met him. But, what about Legolas? Everything had changed so much since she knew he loved her; and she couldn't deny that his presence was affecting her deeply. Feelings that she never thought to exist stirred inside of her with his closeness, and things that she thought to be dead long ago, resurfaced from beneath the memories of happier times shared with him.
She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to contain the tears that now streamed down her cheeks, and trying to decipher her own treacherous feelings; but most of all, she had to hold back the urge to run into Legolas' arms, the urge to tell him how she felt, and to find the comfort she needed in the warmth of his embrace. No, she couldn't let herself go; she knew that if she did that, she would've lost herself in his arms. Finally, loyalty proved to be stronger inside her heart, and she established her priorities.
"I must go to Aragorn." - She ordered herself. Upon feeling his fading presence in the distance, she promised him and herself that she would see him again, no matter what. - "I will be strong" - she assured herself - "For you and for me; cause I wont give up on you, and I will remain truth and loyal to our sacred bond..... no matter how hard it is." - Despite herself, her thoughts kept flying to the powerful presence just outside the shelter, but she held herself back; she wouldn't betray Aragorn.
Sitting by the fire, Legolas stared worriedly at the stars above, for he could feel the despair of her heart in the deepest of his soul; and sensed each and every one of her tears as if they were his own. He wanted to run to her side, to comfort her no matter what was wrong; but his heart discouraged him from doing so. Somehow he knew, that she wouldn't tell him what was wrong.
............................
Hours passed and dawn finally arrived. Arwen came out of the shelter and found Legolas busy preparing the departure.
"Good morning Arwen"
"Good morning" - she said hurriedly, and immediately went to the lake to wash her face. She didn't want him to see the trail of tears on her face, or her eyes as they were swollen and reddened. When she came back, Legolas noted that she seemed distant and elusive.
"Would you like to eat something before we go?" - he asked cautiously.
"No, I would like to go now, if it's possible"
He ignored the dryness of her tone and answered simply. - "Yes of course. I already prepared some provisions to take in case you get hungry later."
"Good; where are we going?"
He went closer to her and noted how she seemed to tense with his closeness. Fighting back the urge to ask her what the heck was wrong, he pointed to a narrower part of the lake. - "The river continues down that way. I figure we can follow the river path first, and then we can follow the mountain ridge on our right, that way we will eventually reach South Ithilien."
"How many days?"
"To Minas Tirith? Four, maybe five."
"That is too much" - she muttered under her breath - "Isn't there another way, to get there faster?"
"Yes, I suppose we can cross the river and go north; but we would have to go through the land of Nurn, right at the borders of Mordor; you must understand that it would be far too risky."
"How many days it would take if we go that way?"
"I can't be sure, but in terms if distance and obstacles, I would say two days."
"Then, I wish to go that way."
"Arwen, it is too dangerous, I don't know what creatures dwell in those lands, and they are still darkened by the shadow of Sauron."
"Legolas, I made my decision, I want to go that way." - she said firmly, talking to him as his Queen and not his friend.
He swallowed hard, trying his best to tolerate the strange way in which she was treating him - "Very well, as you wish" - He said bowing slightly. If she was going to treat him like a servant, then he would behave like one.
He picked up a bundle of provisions he had gathered and tied the spear he had made to his back. - "Come, we must find a proper place to ford the river." - he said without emotion; she followed him, and with that they began their trip.
They crossed the Harnen River a few miles to the west, where the river narrowed enough to permit them to cross without risk. Then, they traveled north, crossing the rest of the mountain range until they reached the southern borders of Nurn. From the heights of the Shadow Mountains, they could see that the land of Nurn was plain and regular, and a gloomy, coniferous forest that extended all the way to the horizon covered the totality of the land. Legolas raised his gaze to the north; with his keen eyesight he could see the horrid peaks that arose at the limits of the forest, the mountains of Mordor; and the very sight still made him shiver. Luckily, they wouldn't have to go near those dreaded peaks, they would have to cross the Nurn forest diagonally, heading northwest, until reaching North Ithilien; and then, they would just have to cross the Anduin to reach Minas Tirith.
They descended from the mountain range at midday, and continued their journey. Arwen was still distant, and avoided talking to him at all times. Every time he suggested stopping and resting for her sake, she would refuse stubbornly to do so, and demanded to continue. Legolas was growing tired from her mistreatment, but he didn't complaint and just kept going, according to her wishes.
They walked into the forest for three hours without eventualities, a cold silence standing like an invisible barrier between them. Then, exhaustion finally charged it's fee on her, and she tripped with a fallen log and scratched her legs on a spiky bush that happened to be right where she fell. Legolas came running to her side and helped her to untangle her legs from the thorny branches, cutting his own hands in the process.
"Are you well?" - he asked concerned, while finally liberating her from the bush. He helped her to stand up and she leaned on him for a moment, trying to recover from the wounds on her legs. Then, she realized how close he was and she pulled back in a sudden movement that sent her back to the ground; she landed on her rear end, fortunately away from the thorns.
"Aouch!"
"That's it! We are going to stop now, you need to rest."
"No, we cannot stop! We must go on."
He wiped the blood of his hands in his own body, leaving two ugly bloodstains in his torso. His face let show all the annoyance he was feeling; her behavior was finally getting on his nerves - "Look, I don't care how much you whine about it. We will stop, and you will rest! And not only that, you will also eat! Understood young lady!!" - he yelled to her as if she was one of his soldiers. Then without a chance for a reply, he tossed the lance to the ground and started unpacking the provisions. She tried to get up, but a thundering yell prevented her from doing so.
"Stay where you are! I said you have to rest. Didn't you hear me?" - she froze at the authority of his voice and stayed in place. He kneeled by her side and handed her a mixture of nuts, roots and wild berries - "Eat"
She looked at him bewildered. He ignored her - "Eat! Now!" - She decided to obey and took the food from his hands, quickly stuffing it in her mouth with a defying gesture. - "FINE!" - she said, with her mouth still stuffed. Then, as he carefully touched her leg to examine the wounds, she jerked back - "Don't touch me!"
He pulled back with noting but hurt in his eyes - "I was just trying to check your wounds. What is the matter with you? I am sick of your stiff- necked attitude and your rudeness. What have I done to deserve this, uh?
She lowered her head; she knew she was being mean to him. - "Nothing is the matter with me, Legolas. Besides, it is not of your concern."
"Not of my concern! I believe I am most affected by this, and I think you owe me an explanation!"
"I owe you nothing! You don't understand, just stay away from me!!"
He stood up and backed away from her slowly, his eyes were dilated and his mouth half opened; he was completely astonished, confused and terribly hurt. Arwen regretted the way she had yelled to him, but as she was about to apologize, a low rustle coming from the forest ahead interrupted her. Legolas froze, adopting at once a fighting stance. He gestured her to stay down and quiet; then slowly and silent like a shadow, he picked up the lance and moved forward to investigate.
As he advanced towards the noise, he could hear a rushed breathing, and the scent of blood and fear filled his nostrils; there was a creature there, he was sure; and whatever it was, it was wounded and really frightened. As he neared the source of the noise, he clenched his fist around his lance, preparing himself for the unexpected.
As he finally got to see the creature, he lowered his lance and sighed relieved; it was only a frightened, young deer. But soon enough, his body tensed, as the scent of blood came to him again and he saw a thick arrow firmly embedded below one of the deer's shoulder blades. - "Hunters" - he thought, wondering who could be hunting in such a lonely place. He neared the wounded animal, trying to get a closer look at the arrow, to see if maybe he could figure out who had shot it.
"Southern men" - he muttered.
"What is it?" - Arwen's voice startled him and he turned around to find her right behind where he was. He glared at her, but a sudden flicker of horror in her eyes made him turn around just in time to see a small, dark figure that was coming his way; and the tip of an arrow that was steadily pointing to his head, right between his eyes.
He froze, and regarded the creature; it was a southern woman, and she was alone. He noted that she was short of stature, but lean and very strong looking. She came closer to him and with her bow tensed and the arrow still aiming to his head, she yelled angrily, right at his face.
Arwen whimpered and hid behind a tree, but the woman's attention was totally focused on Legolas. Trying to calm her down, Legolas dropped the lance and raised his hands to her, showing his palms to her in a universal gesture of peace. He looked at her right in the eye, showing her that he had nothing to hide, and trying to make her understand with his steady gaze that he meant no harm to her. He continued examining her; her skin was smooth and tanned; her hair was dark and reddish, and curled wildly above his head, before cascading down to her back. Her features were strong, but feminine; her brows were thick, but stylish; her jaw strong; her nose was small but proud; her mouth was pursed into a thin line, a sign of nervousness, but also of concentration as she aimed. Her body was lean and nicely muscled, very strong and elegant despite the fact of being short.
But what caught his attention above all was the ebony blackness of her eyes. Her eyes were wild, defying and untamed; but completely honest and naïve at the same time. He examined her garments, trying to figure out what tribe she belonged to, but he quite place them. Off course he knew many of the dialects of the southern people, but he also knew that some of the tribes held deadly enmities towards each other, and that if he would speak in the wrong speech, he would only cause her to release her nervous grip, and he could end up with an arrow embedded in his skull.
Endless minutes went by in perfect silence, but then, glancing to the wounded deer, that was know lying on the ground, she finally broke the silence.
"My prey!" - she said angrily, with a strange, musical accent that made Legolas want to giggle. Off course he held it back, and was glad that she spoke common language.
"I respect your prey" - he said slowly, with a voice tone he knew was soothing to any creature.
"This is my territory!" - she said a little less angry, but still menacingly.
"I am sorry, I didn't know. I am just a traveler."
At that point, Arwen came from behind the tree and listened closely to their conversation.
"Not many travelers here. I don't trust you."
"I mean no harm to you, I swear. I apologize for disrespecting your hunting territory."
She seemed to finally calm down, and lowering her bow, she proceeded to examine the strange foreigner in front of her. - "I've never seen a man like you before in my life" - she said with her musical accent, while looking closely at Legolas' fair features.
Legolas smiled to her, trying to earn her trust, but it wasn't necessary, for a few moments later, she boldly raised a hand to touch his face. Legolas didn't move an inch, and she jerked and pulled back her hand at the contact with such smoothness; but she promptly restarted her exploration and this time touched his hair, her mouth half open in wonder. Legolas let her continue with her exploration, avoiding any sudden movement. He knew that if he would protest or move the wrong way, she would be startled and would get violent, or would be scared and would run away. She continued touching his hair and face with the tips of her fingers, marveling at the texture of the fascinating stranger; then, she let out a soft cry of surprise as she saw the tip of one of his ears, protruding from his golden mane.
"You are an elf!" - she cried out with amusement.
"That I am" - he said, as calmed as ever.
She looked at him for endless moments before saying another word - "I never thought I'd live to see a real elf; Kron told us there were no elves left in middle earth."
"Kron?"
"The leader of my people. But, what is an elf doing in Nurn anyway?"
"Like I said, I am just a traveler; and I am heading west as soon as I can."
"But, you don't carry provisions, or weapons, this is a dangerous territory to wander alone."
"I was attacked by wolves, in the land of Khand and lost all my provisions and weapons."
"Wolves?" - the mere word seemed to make her uncomfortable.
"But don't worry, they are all death now."
"Good; why don't you come with me; my city is close, and I can give you provisions, and maybe even a horse so you can continue with your journey. You'll never come out of Nurn traveling like this."
Legolas knew of the southern men's tradition of being kind to travelers in need, once they know they are no hazard to them; so her invitation did not surprised him - "You are very kind, but I must know first, how far is your..city?"
"Only one hour north form here, I will provide you with good things if you help me carry the deer, deal?"
Legolas thought little of it; the possibility of getting provisions and a horse added greatly to the chance of completing the journey - "Deal. My name is Legolas" - he said smiling friendly.
"Leg-go-lass" - she repeated slowly, with her funny accent. - "What a weird name."
Legolas snorted with amusement - "What is your name?"
"I am Nohemy"
.................................
Well, here it is. A new character was added to the mix; but don't worry, she will only bring lots of new emotions into the story. The Legolas and Arwen story will get a little bit more complicated and rich thanks to her; and all I can tell you is that jealousness will be involved.
Next chapter is named NOHEMY AND THE PEOPLE OF THE GREY CLIFFS. Legolas and Arwen will find lots of trouble and adventure in the Grey Cliffs, so stay tuned.
Thanks again to all the reviewers.
Elwe.