Authors Note:
I realise I have been taking a good deal
of liberty with regards to the geographical aspects of the Easterlings, the
Sunlands and in particular the Haradrim. In order for you to have a better idea
of where everything is (in my twisted imagination), I've manipulated one of the
Middle Earth maps on site to produce this crude representation. Please take
this as my own interpretation of the Haradrim and Sunlands and not to be
mistaken for canonical information. Anyone wishing to see this map can go to
Chapter Two in Heart of Darkness on my site page, the address of which is found
on the profile page. You will need to magnify it to make up some of the finer
details.
Chapter Two
Councils of War
Councils of war were by their very nature, sombre affairs.
For those who did not relish the notion of war, a gathering where one had to discuss with others, the best method of annihilating another race, was generally tolerated with begrudging reluctance. A Council of war was often the private crucible in which the public posturing, exaggeration and threats made between enemies prior to a conflict was whittled away in favour of the truth. In the war room, the false fronts put in place for the benefit of the enemy was dismantled for a true assessment of capability and resources. It was a serious business indeed that had changed little in its methodology during throughout ages of warfare.
Following the War of the Ring, the leaders of the Ruling Council of Middle earth had prayed they would never again find themselves assembled in this fashion. However, as they had come to learn on numerous occasions since, hope and reality seldom bore any resemblance to each other. And existed on two differing planes. Yet even as they sat down to the weighted issue at hand, they were burdened by more than just the issue of war but rather the seething tensions that had arisen in the wake of the massacres at Axinar, Laxor, Brecat and Turazon. It preyed heavily upon the minds of all present as they sat before each other
Aragorn had not spoken to Legolas after their previous exchange but had
returned to some measure of calm when they sat down to discuss their plans for
the conduct of the war. Present were Imrahil of Dol Amroth, Eomer of Rohan,
Faramir of Ithilien, Gimli of Aglarond, himself representing Gondor while
Legolas Greenleaf represented the elven armies of Eryn Lasgalen and East Lorien
with Haldir as his second in command. Only Pallando the Istar remained
unaligned though this was not entirely a disadvantage because Aragorn found
that wizards often saw things a good deal clearer than either men or elves.
The tension within the tent was so thick that for a while no one spoke. Legolas' gaze met no ones and Aragorn was certain he knew that all eyes were upon him. The air was pregnant with the anticipation of an outburst and glancing at Eomer, Aragorn knew that if explanations were demanded of the elf, it would most likely come from the King of the Mark. Rohan had bore witness to the onslaught of Uruk-Hai during the War of the Ring and the massacre they had seen during their journey to this rendezvous point was too reminiscent of those attacks for Eomer to tolerate with silence. Even though he had been slow to believe that the elves were responsible for what they had seen, his acceptance had come with intense anger and moral outrage.
Fortunately, Faramir and Imrahil who were no strangers to diplomacy, with the former being the Denethor's younger son and accustomed to all aspects of politics and the later being prince of his own realm, were able to hold their emotions in check. Eomer was a warrior and had a warrior's sensibilities even though he was now king. Gimli's emotions were hidden beneath his crusty exterior and only Legolas and Aragorn had any idea how much what had transpired had affected. Aragorn had no doubted he was just as furious as Eomer but he would say nothing because his eyes reflected guilt at his participation at Axinar.
Elves were difficult to read and Aragorn who knew Legolas longer than anyone else was usually able to see past the façade of aloofness the prince kept over his emotions. Elves were built that way, even Arwen to a certain degree, kept their emotions restrained behind their beautiful masks. If he did not love her so, he would not be able to see the shift of colour in her sapphire eyes that indicated her mood had altered and so it was with Legolas. He could wear a mask of stone and Aragorn could still tell what he was about by his eyes. Aragorn looked into Legolas' eyes now and saw nothing but darkness and knew that it was an apt description of where the elf was at this moment.
Haldir's however, did not seem so impregnable and Aragorn sensed that he disliked what was happening but was too conditioned to duty to speak it out loud. He was the faithful servant of Lord Celeborn for as long as the Third Age, the elf knew how to keep his own counsel no matter how much he may dislike the way events unfolded around him. Celeborn gave him to Legolas as a lieutenant of the combined elven army and Aragorn had no doubt that he would serve the Prince of the Woodland Realm with the same devotion.
"We should begin," Aragorn finally broke the silence, deciding that it was best to get on with the business at hand before this continued silence caused someone to speak out of turn. "Legolas, what news do you have about the lands beyond this region?"
Legolas shifted in his chair, needing no elven insight to sense the resentment in the room and deciding promptly that he did not care because it was not their wife who had been violated and until such a tragedy befell them, they had no right to sit in judgment of his action. He was grateful Aragorn was making no statement regarding the attacks upon the villages because he could see Eomer itching for an explanation and Legolas was hardly in the mood to provide him with one when it ought to have been clear enough; the Haradrim, like the Easterlings, were the enemy.
"This land is mostly desert," Legolas opened, "there are sufficient watering holes scattered throughout the desert but these cannot be called rivers in any manner in which we are accustomed. I believe that there are large reserves of water beneath the ground that sustains these pools and it is source that gives life to the communities in the desert. Our scouts eastward have seen a number of these villages."
Haldir promptly spread open a large map across the table that revealed the lay of the Harawraith and the points on the parchment where these villages were to be found before Legolas continued speaking once more.
"From what we have discerned from the folk of these parts, there is little in the way of cities for at least a hundred leagues. Upon crossing that distance, there is a border of mountains, through which there is a small pass that one must cross to reach their more fertile lands. Beyond the frame of mountains which they call the Wall lies the river called the Sanara."
"I know of it," Pallando offered, "while its size does not compare with the Anduin, it flow from Near Harad to Far Harad and connects the northern and southern realms. Along the Sanara is where you will find Haradwraith's wealth. They call the lands along its banks the Sanara belt."
"If there land is so fertile, why are they starving?" Imrahil inquired preferring to ignore the tensions of the room and offer pertinent discussion.
"The fertile lands expand no more than a day's journey on foot from the banks of the Sanara. In that space, the land is well irrigated by the river, beyond that is desert and what farming is done, has all but been exhausted to feed the rest of their people," Haldir explained, hoping that no one asked how they came about this information.
"This land has been in drought since Sauron's end and since then, the
tributes that the dark lord used to keep these people loyal to him have
disappeared. All Sauron required of the Southrons and I suspect the Easterlings
as well was to fight. He provided ample tributes in the form of food supplies
to ensure that their industry would be focussed on the business of war. There
are more weapon smiths in Haradwraith than there are farmers and therein lies
their difficulty. They are starving because most of them have never had to feed
themselves."
"So if we wish to subdue them, we must take the lands of the Sanara belt," Aragorn said contemplatively.
"Yes," Legolas replied stiffly, "the rest of Haradwraith is desert and inconsequential with little villages that cannot amass the strength to do little else but starve. However, the lands along the Sanara Belt can house thousands that will be able to plague us for years even if we wipe out every village in the rest of the country."
Aragorn saw Eomer's jaw clench involuntarily and feared that the King of the Mark might make an outburst regarding the massacres at Axinar but fortunately, Eomer displayed surprising restraint by remaining silent and letting his gaze fall away from Legolas. Aragorn sensed that if Eomer continued to meet Legolas' gaze, the urge to speak up regarding what had happened would become too much for the spirited Rohirrim king.
Eomer's response was not lost upon Legolas who in typical elvish perception noticed the rage beneath the man's eyes. However, Legolas ignored it even though something churned inside of him to know that he had earned the distrust of almost everyone present. He wished they could understand that what he was doing was for the best. The Easterlings and the Haradrim had proved time and time again, that they were a race not to be trusted. Legolas was simply doing what the others could not by taking this harsh stance against them. It was not merely for the sake of vengeance or for Melia, but to ensure the protection of Middle earth from these barbarians. It pained him that not even Aragorn understood this.
"We must march for the Wall immediately," Aragorn announced deciding that it was best to propel them past the tension by keeping their focus on their reason for this gathering. He glanced at the map before him, paying particular attention to the range of mountains that lay between the army of Ruling Council and the Sanara belt.
"What is your plan?" Gimli asked because he recognized that familiar gleam in the Aragorn's eyes from their time together in the fellowship. It was not long after the quest had begun that Legolas; Boromir and he were able to discern when Aragorn's contemplative musings had evolved into something more tangible by reading the expression on his face. This moment was no different.
"This pass appears to be the only way through the Wall," Aragorn pointed out, his eyes still fixed upon the map. "If I were the Haradrim king, I would attempt to engage us here because it is a narrow passage and we will be at our most vulnerable when we attempt to cross it."
"Yes," Faramir nodded immediately, understanding quickly what his king was alluding to. "If they are amassing troops to resist us, then those forces would be most effectively employed when we attempt to cross the pass."
"If we march quickly," Aragorn continued with his explanation, "we can make the pass before the Haradrim gain their support from the Variags and the Easterlings. I do not believe they would risk an attack otherwise."
"They call it the Splinter," Imrahil noted, grateful that his elvish lineage allowed him to read some of it.
"Yes," Pallando nodded recalling the folklore behind the name, "they call it that because they believe the wall was splintered to keep them faithful to Morgoth as well as eternally vigilant against their enemies."
"No doubt a piece of fiction of propagated by Morgoth," Legolas snorted derisively, revealing his clear disdain for the Haradrim by his dismissive remark. "These people are tainted by their notion that all who fought against Sauron and his former master will eventually come for them. For them, our attack was an inevitability."
Once again, Aragorn saw Eomer wanting to speak out but the Rohirrim lord exercised his restraint once more even though Aragorn could see he was doing so at great effort. It would not be long before Eomer's resolve splintered as finally as the crack in the Wall.
"I wish we knew a little more about this belt of which Legolas' speaks," Imrahil remarked, using his statement as an excuse to diffuse the tension. Like Aragorn, he was aware of the seething resentment in the room and while he felt the same outrage as Eomer, in the business of war, one's personal feelings had to take second place to the good of the cause and at this moment, though repugnant, Legolas' s' actions aided the cause.
"I do have a suggestion regarding that very matter," Pallando offered, easing back into his chair taking the opening that Imrahil had provided to bring to the table a new matter that needed prompt discussion.
"What sort of suggestion?" Aragorn looked at him, grateful that there was something else to focus their thoughts because he knew that the moment the meeting was done, Eomer was going to demand an explanation from Legolas regarding his behaviour. Unlike Faramir or Imrahil, Aragorn could not command Eomer to desist, nor would he try. Eomer was a king in his own right and had every right to question an ally on his conduct. However, Aragorn could stave off the inevitable by giving every bit of business they had to discuss its due.
"Despite the efforts of the Prince and your own Rangers, we still know very little about the lands of the Sanara belt. I myself journeyed once through these lands but that was almost three centuries ago and I did not linger long enough to garner anything that could be of use to you now. I think if we are contemplating the annexation of these territories, then we must have more than just passing information of the lands we are about to invade. We need accurate intelligence regarding their strength, the fortifications of their cities, their supply routes and the number of men at their disposal. Your Rangers are unable to penetrate the cities because they cannot assume the guise of the enemy, doubly so for the elves whose methods may be efficient in its brutality, are nonetheless incapable of providing the detail we need."
Legolas' mask remained stony but there was no one present who doubted Pallando's allegation as to how he had acquired his information and in their silence, there was little refute made on Pallando's statement in regarded to their need for accurate intelligence. In truth, Pallando wished to bring about a swift conclusion to the war. If Haradwraith could be defeated quickly with Aragorn being allowed to administer the annexed territories with benevolence, then the Haradrim may learn that their fears of subjugation were merely propaganda remaining from Sauron's dominion over them. It would allow them to yield and in doing so, provide Aragorn with the opportunity he needed to built a lasting peace with the minium of lives lost. However, a long war would only give the elves the excuse they needed for wholesale slaughter and might erode the good intentions of Gondor and Rohan as well.
"What do you propose?" Aragorn asked and Pallando saw that he had the Council's undivided attention.
"I propose to journey to the Sanara belt in order to discern their capital city in order to discern their strength and their plans of attack. It will also be to chart the area for any useful information we might need during our advance."
A slight exclamation of shock and surprise moved through the group following Pallando's statement. Even Legolas appeared shock by the enormity of what he had suggested, not to mention the danger involved.
"Alone?" Aragorn asked, once he had managed to overcome his astonishment.
"That is exceedingly dangerous, Master Pallando," Eomer looked at the wizard with equal concern. "Granted you may appear as one of them but your fame as a wizard of Gandalf's ilk is well known."
"I think that a wizard is more than capable of protecting himself," Haldir pointed out, rather surprised by these humans who believed that Pallando was not entirely capable of protecting himself against the Haradrim. If anyone had reason to fear, it was the enemy should they try to overcome the istar.
"Spies are no good to anyone if they are discovered," Eomer returned acerbically, having little patience with anyone elvish at the moment, "even those who are capable of protecting themselves."
"He is correct," Legolas surprised everyone by agreeing with Eomer when he turned to the wizard and added gently, "they would recognise you Pallando and that would render your efforts to learn anything useful, worthless."
Despite his darkened state of mind, Legolas still counted Pallando as someone he cared about deeply. If it were not for Pallando, he and Melia would be dead at the hands of goblins in the far edge of the world. Thanks to the wizard who had delivered them from that certain death, Legolas and Melia had been give the chance of a life together. No matter how disconnected he might feel from everyone at this moment, Legolas could not forget that nor would he willingly stand by and left the istar place himself in danger.
"A little glamour is all that I need to remain hidden," Pallando assured him, grateful for the emotion behind the Prince's words and even more so because it proved to the istar that vengeance was not all that Legolas was about. There was still a part of him that lingered in the light, a part that was still salvageable.
Aragorn did not speak in protest or support for the idea because he was too busy thinking about the possibilities of Pallando's covert foray into enemy territory. More than any other person present, Aragorn knew the value of accurate information. For the better part of sixty years, he had been a Ranger who had wandered the wilds gathering news of Sauron's evils and the fulfilment of the prophecy regarding Isildur's Bane. So much of his success in becoming king was due to the friendships and the knowledge he had garnered in those decades of secret observation, where he walked among the people who would either become his allies or his enemies in the coming battle with Sauron. He knew the value of moving covertly in the shadows and listening closely. Pallando's plan had a good deal of merit and if anyone could manage to hide among the Haradrim, it was Pallando.
"But this is madness," Gimli declared, ever the sceptic. "You cannot simply go there alone. What if they were to discover you despite the magic? I do not recall magic making Gandalf invincible."
"I will go with you," Faramir stated suddenly.
Aragorn was protesting even before he had registered the words leaving his mouth.
"Absolutely not," Aragorn declared almost aghast by the possibility. "You would be even more conspicuous than he!"
"If he can conceal himself then he can conceal me as well," Faramir replied promptly, "besides, this sun has suitably bronzed my skin and if I were to darken my hair and remained beneath the cover of a cloak, there is no reason why I would call attention to myself at his side." Since the wizard had brought forward the possibility of travelling to the Sanara belt, Faramir's mind was already formulating the notion of accompanying him on this journey.
"Do not forget," he stared at Aragorn, "that like you I was a Ranger as well."
"You were a Ranger," Aragorn reminded him sternly with emphasis on the past tense, "you are now a Prince of Ithilien and my Steward. I need you here. Even if I did not, your capture would compromise us our position in more ways then you know."
Aragorn knew that he was protesting so vehemently because he did not like the idea of Faramir entering enemy territory under any circumstances. Not only was Faramir a trusted friend but he was also Boromir's brother and after failing the man of Gondor at Parth Galen, Aragorn had an ingrained need to protect the remaining son of Denethor despite himself. Besides, he did not want Faramir placing himself in harm's way unnecessarily now that Eowyn was with child.
Faramir met his gaze and guessed immediately what was at the heart of Aragorn's resistance because this was not the first time he had encountered it. He knew that his king would always feel responsible for failing his brother and coped with that perceived failure by ensuring that no harm came to him. While Faramir appreciated the Aragorn's efforts because it felt as if he still had a protective older brother looking over his shoulder, Faramir would not shirk his duty to his king or to cause for which they were assembled here in this foreign land.
"You know that will not happen," Faramir said firmly and with enough resolution in his voice to give even Aragorn pause. "I spent years in Ithilien, watching Mordor and gauging its strength. I did so without incurring Sauron's wrath and staying well out of sight of his orcs because I knew how to remain hidden. We need accurate intelligence if we are to proceed, not merely in casual observance but also from a military standpoint. This skill I have, this skill we need."
"As much as it despises me to admit it," Imrahil spoke up after Faramir's passionate speech, "I must agree with Prince Faramir. I am in no hurry to see my kinsmen place himself in danger but Faramir has served Gondor well in this capacity before and if we are to make for the Wall, then we must have accurate information. I mean no disrespect to you Master Pallando but you are a not a military man where else Faramir has been little else in his life."
"I cannot dispute that," Pallando replied, forced to concede that point.
"This glamour," Eomer turned to Pallando, "will it be able to protect you both?"
"It will," Pallando replied, uncertain whether or not he wanted a
travelling companion but deciding the choice was out of his hands since Faramir
appeared very determined indeed and despite himself, there was a certain logic
to his presence. Still, if he was forced to take a companion, he could do no
worse than the Prince of Ithilien who was known for being something of a
scholar as well as a warrior. It was a rare combination and might prove useful.
"Do you know what the Haradrim would do to you if they found you out?" Legolas asked quietly. He was just as anxious about the Prince's safety as Aragorn. Since becoming lord of Eden Ardhon, their friendship had been further strengthened by their dealings as the respective masters of north and south Ithilien and though the importance of the mission could not be denied, he had no wish to see Faramir harmed either.
"I do," Faramir nodded. "With all due respect to Pallando, he has not commanded men to fight, I have and in having that dubious distinction, I know what to seek out when gathering our information. Aragorn," he glanced at the king, "if we find allies, there must be someone in suitable authority to be able to negotiate with them in your stead and I believe that as your Steward, that duty falls to me."
Faramir's argument could not be refuted even though Aragorn wish he could. The Prince of Ithilien was correct on all counts and Aragorn knew that his personal feelings on the matter were the main reason for his objection. With a sigh, he knew he had to concede the point in this instance because a king had to rule with his head and not with his heart. Aragorn could send other men to accomplish the deed with Pallando but he knew inwardly that none would be as effective as the Prince of Ithilien.
"If you are determined to go, then I can see no reason why you should
not," Aragorn said quietly, "but I expect you to take every
precaution. I have no desire to return home to your wife and tell her that I
have lost you in enemy territory."
"If it were to come to that, I rather it you than I " Faramir joked, attempting to bring some brevity into the taut atmosphere. Unfortunately, it was an effort that failed to put anyone at ease. What he and Pallando would be embarking upon was dangerous and no amount of levity could change it or assuage their fears for him.
"When will you leave?" Gimli asked.
"There are some preparations to make but I should like to go within the next two days," Pallando replied glancing at Faramir, "would that suit you Prince?"
"It would suit me," Faramir nodded.
"Then it is settled," Aragorn said sombrely, wishing that thing
were anything but that.
***********
The humans had been quick to depart from Legolas' tent in the wake of their discussion and the reunion Legolas Greenleaf had hoped to enjoy with his friends when their respective armies joined each other, had been dashed the moment Aragorn had struck him. It was clear by the tensions during the council of war that the others were no happier with him then Aragorn. Obviously, they could not understand what he was enduring so he was not quick to blame them for their actions. However, as intractable as he was regarding his conduct of the war, Legolas did not wish to lose his friendships with Eomer, Faramir and Imrahil or in particular, Aragorn.
Aragorn wanted nothing more than to return to his own tent in order to rest as well as recover from the ordeal that had been their first Council of War in enemy territory. He noted with relief that Eomer and Imrahil were returning to the Rohirrim encampment as well. Aragorn could not deny fearing that Eomer may confront Legolas over his actions in the villages they had seen prior to their arrival here. Aragorn doubted that Eomer would find Legolas' behaviour satisfactory considering how unrepentant the elf had been about the whole affair during their earlier encounter. The king of the Mark had been remarkably restrained during their council meeting but Aragorn suspected Eomer would not be able to keep his temper if he saw just how unmoved Legolas was about what he had done. Aragorn could not blame the Rohirrim king for his anger, not when the same images of destruction were burned into own memory as prolifically as they were burnt into Eomer's.
"Aragorn," Legolas called to the king when he emerged from his tent and saw Aragorn heading towards the Gondorian encampment.
At the sound of his name, Aragorn halted in his steps beneath the night sky and looked over his shoulder to see Legolas waiting at the entrance to his tent. The elf did not seem as haughtily confident as before and there was a tinge of something in his eyes that gave Aragorn reason to believe that perhaps Legolas was willing to talk. He was not so optimistic as to believe that Legolas had changed his mind about his behaviour at Axinar but there was a conciliatory expression on the elf's face that was reason enough to hear him out. However, Aragorn quashed the flaring hope inside of him that Legolas' descent into darkness was not as complete as he thought. Until he had proof otherwise, Aragorn was sceptical of anything Legolas had to say, not after what he saw at Axinar.
"Prince," Aragorn said formally, his voice devoid of any warmth.
Legolas drew a deep breath and met his friend's gaze, unable to ignore the aloofness in Aragorn's voice. It hurt him more than he could possibly believe to see the coldness in Aragorn's eyes and know that he had earned the disdain his friend felt for him at this time. From Aragorn's point of view, Legolas supposed that he did deserve the man's distrust and suspicion. Unfortunately, Legolas could not oblige Aragorn in his wishes. After all, the king could not begin to fathom what he was feeling and therefore could feel no empathy in his actions.
"Aragorn, I do not wish to fight with you," Legolas said sincerely as they stood before each other like two cliffs separated by an ever-widening chasm.
"I do not relish it either," Aragorn returned with just as much emotion and wished the iciness in his heart was not as cutting as the cold chill of the desert air lashing against his cheeks. He hugged his cloak closer to his body and wondered abstractly, how one could be cold in a desert before realising that the chill was more than just upon his skin.
"It is not I who has placed this wall between us old friend," Aragorn continued as he stared Legolas in the eye, "it is you."
Legolas dropped his gaze towards the ground unable to maintain contact with Aragorn because he had no wish for the man to know the demons plaguing his innermost thoughts. Aragorn knew far too about him already.
"I know," he conceded the point and saw Aragorn's surprise at his admission. "Do you think me so far gone that I cannot admit my mistakes?" He asked quietly.
"I do not know," Aragorn replied, "you stand before me bearing the guise of my best friend and yet your actions are that of a stranger. I no longer take anything for granted where you are concerned."
"I did what was necessary," Legolas answered, making no effort to explain himself because it was a path taken already and the place it had led them to would be no different if they argued again. "They are a dangerous people. They always have been. You only see what I did at Axinar; you do not remember their treachery. They have not changed since Ulfrang the Black betrayed us at Nirnaeth Arnoediad. It was ill done when Morgoth reached these people first because he has tainted their thoughts against the First Born and all who serve the light. What I did may seem harsh but when all things are accounted for, it is only a splinter in comparison to what they have wrought upon us."
Aragorn could see that Legolas was making an effort to explain himself but his argument was flawed because it was weighted with guilt and responsibility over what had transpired at Eden Ardhon and to Melia. He wished he could absolve Legolas the way the elf needed him to but Aragorn could not because Legolas did not understand that what he was doing was unacceptable, even in war.
"That does not make it right Legolas," Aragorn declared emotionally, "we cannot fight the enemy by sacrificing ourselves, it is the same as letting them win. In any case, we often think that the enemy is evil because it makes it easier to fight them but in truth, most of the time they are simply like us, divided by circumstances. If Morgoth had reached the men of Hildorien first, who is to say that we would have turned out differently? Sauron was able to sway the men of Numenor with words alone. He sent them to war against the Valar. The Easterlings, the Haradrim and all the races that live east of Mordor have been conditioned to obey Sauron and to despise us, they have never been afforded to chance to learn better. We cannot teach them otherwise by brute force or slaughter."
"You cannot teach them anything until you have conquered them," Legolas pointed out, feeling his heart sink because he knew that no amount of explanation would sway Aragorn into seeing his point of view. "They will not be conquered by compassion Aragorn, they will only use it to their advantage."
"I know you believe you had good reason," Aragorn replied, drawing the same conclusion about Legolas regarding his friend's staunch beliefs. "But your reason comes from your pain, pain you have not yet addressed. I see the hurt inside you even though you wear a mask of stone. Your agony screams out to anyone who knows you and with every drop of blood you spill."
"You know nothing of what you speak!" Legolas snapped, feeling Aragorn's words piercing his skin like sharp blades. "I thought if I tried to explain, you would understand. I do not want our friendship to end because of this."
"Do you think I want that?" Aragorn lashed back with equal vehemence, not about to let Legolas retreat now that they were getting to the heart of the matter. Legolas needed to talk about it no matter how unpalatable it was to his sense. The anger was eating him inside and until he released it, Legolas would be slave to it.
"You are more than simply my friend," Aragorn beseeched him, "you are like my brother and when I see you in this manner, it tears me apart because I know what you have done is not borne out of malice or hatred but pain, pure and unadulterated pain. Legolas, it was not your fault!"
"I am the one who made the choice!" Legolas shouted and stormed towards the tent opening again.
"You made a choice for friendship," Aragorn returned, following him. "You wanted to help us at Lossarnach. There is no shame in that. I am sure Melia understands that!"
"Melia understands," Legolas said bitterly as he turned to face
the king and upon doing so, allowed Aragorn to see the terrible sadness in his
eyes. "She understands and she does not blame me. How can she blame me
when all she can think of is the child she was unable to save? The Easterling
bastard snapped the girl's neck in front of her! Snapped her neck and then
raped my Melia while she was weeping her failure! Melia doesn't hate them Aragorn;
she hates herself for being unable to stop them! It doesn't matter that
she more than paid the price for that failure by what they did to her, all she
can think of is failing Anna. How can I do anything but hang my head in shame
when my wife hates herself for living? That is what I have done to
her."
And with that, he disappeared into his tent, leaving Aragorn staring after
him. The king of Gondor did not follow because frankly Aragorn would not know
how to answer him.
Aragorn raised his eyes to the stars and lingered for a moment beneath Varda's light before turning away from the tent. He resumed his journey towards the Gondorian camp because he did not know how to counter Legolas' argument and wished more than anything that Gandalf was here. Gandalf would know the right words to say because Elbereth knew he did not. Gandalf had been mentor to all of them and he always seemed to know what to say when things were at their worst. Aragorn did not have that gift and he sensed that unless he found the right words, he would have to abandon Legolas to the path of darkness that the elf had chosen and pray that he would find a way out before it was too late.
**********
Under the same sky, though further away than either Gondor or Haradwraith, the night air was not so cold because the wind sweeping across the land was a dry, dust carrying draught. It left patterns upon the sand dunes as it continued its airborne journey. The warrior known to his people as Kirin lowered the hood of his cloak over his brow to ensure that his eyes were shielded from the tiny grains of sand drifting through the air as he made his way through the quiet streets of his home. He knew he was not late but the others would have most likely arrived early to escape the light windstorm that was assailing him even as he neared the enormous sandstone building before him.
He was called Kirin by his father who had named him after the Kirinki, a species of bird that existed in the land of the Valar. When he was born, he had been such a frail and tiny infant that it was feared he would not survive to adulthood but his father was certain that he would be prevail and make his mark to all who had doubted him. Thus he was named for the legendary birds that were known for their slight size but were able to sing with voices so high that men could not hear them.
It had been a long time since Kirin had to prove himself and as undisputed leader of his people, the origins of his name was remembered only as a curious sort of joke. In a matter of months, he would reach his twenty-eight year but he was already the veteran of a dozen wars and could not remember a time in his adult life when there was not a battle to wage somewhere. Kirin had come to the conclusion that he would die on his feet and in battle, a fate not wholly unacceptable to him because he was a warrior and a warrior's end was what he deserved. However, he was not a man who relished war and he certainly did not wish the same for the generations who came after him. Thus when the news from Haradwraith reached him, he knew that he had to act.
Entering the Great Hall of Gathering, Kirin was soon surrounded by sandstone walls that curved upwards into a domed ceiling peaked by a circle of coloured glass that allowed them to see the stars above. The entire structure of the building consisted of its main hall that was floored with dark marble and was large enough to house hundreds. There were no chairs, only woven rugs across the hard floor surrounding a raised dais in the centre of the room where all could see a speaker when he took the stage to address the gathering. On the walls, hung the portraits of great leaders and thinkers, men who had shaped their culture whether or not in the guise of warriors or teachers.
On this occasion however, there were only forty men awaiting his arrival when Kirin made his way down the aisle leading to the dais. His presence brought to gradual silence the rumble of voices in the hall as all eyes shifted to him and awaited patiently as Kirin took his place before them. During his journey, he offered those he passed a nod of greeting and customary salutation. He knew most of the faces before him but there was some who were not known to him. This was hardly surprising because the quorum came together only twice a year unless of course there was a matter to be discussed that could not wait.
Like now.
Just as they were unknown to him, Kirin knew that to some, he was also a stranger. They only knew him by the chain of gold worn around his neck that held his sigil for all to see. It told those who did not know him who he was even if they had never laid eyes upon him before. The sigil's intricate design gave him the right to speak for them and the right to lead them. Upon reaching the dais, Kirin bowed slightly before taking sitting down and placing his sword before him.
As was with the custom of his people, the attendants to the meeting were already seated on the woven mats with their swords laid before them as a gesture of willingness to negotiate. Though they were representative of many tribes, they lived and warred under the same banner. Their number was the largest it had been in almost a decade and Kirin was pleased to see that all of them had travelled so far for this meeting. Now that they were finally, assembled, he saw no reason to delay the discussion he had summoned them from far and wide to attend.
"My friends," Kirin began, requiring no need for introductions since that business was conducted during the welcoming feast a day before, "you know why we are here. We have a choice before us, a choice that will define the fate of our people."
He paused to let those words sink into the thoughts of the men gathered and saw in each of their eyes that the words had profound meaning since none were untouched by what Kirin spoke. Each man thought of the battles he had fought and thanks to their beliefs, there had been many indeed no matter what corner of their country they resided. They thought of friends and family who were absent from their lives because of the constant warfare that seemed almost endless and steeped in futility. It would have been easy to yield, to submit to the wishes of their enemies but surrender was not in their nature and for that, they had paid a high price.
"War has come to Haradwraith and soon to the lands of Easterlings," Kirin announced. "Many months ago, we received reports that King Dallanar, leading the Confederacy, planned to invade the western lands of Gondor and Rohan. I have just received a detailed report from one of my spies in Dallanar's court that his incursion into that territory has come at a terrible price. Not only has Dallanar been pushed back into his own territories by his enemies, it appears that they have pursued him into Haradwraith. It is believed that the armies of Gondor and Rohan are presently on route to the Sonara belt and leading them are the First Born."
A roar of disbelief echoed through the gathering of warriors present and Kirin could not blame them for their astonishment. When he had first been told of the news, he too had received it with similar astonishment. To his people, the First Born was as revered as the Valar. Indeed, their forebears had served the sons of Feanor faithfully in the First Age but had little contact with them since the sinking of Beleriand when they travelled to this land to tame themselves a new land to call their own. It was believed that the elves no longer warred, that they left such brutality to men who were more than adept of spilling blood. To think that the First Born were leading an army of men to annihilate the Haradrim was more than a little difficult to accept.
Unfortunately, they had to accept it if they were ever going to know a lasting peace.
It took some minutes for Kirin to regain some semblance of order in the room
so that he could continue speaking. There was more news to impart and not all
of it had to do with the present of the First Born in the invasion of
Haradwraith. What he had to tell them would shake them all to the core and
there was really no delicate way to deliver the news.
"Why are the First Born involving themselves in a matter that is clearly for men alone?" Andros, one of the southern tribal leaders asked astutely. Andros was not a man prone to unfounded outbursts and it did not surprise Kirin that this question came from him. "I heard that they were all sailing to Aman to dwell with the gods."
Fortunately, Andros' questioned silenced the remaining voices reacting to the news as everyone turned to Kirin for his answer. "It seems that the First Born have not departed this realm completely. I have heard that the king of the Woodland Realm remains, as does the Lord of the Golden Wood who is husband to the fair Lady Galadriel. While the Peredhill has sailed across the sea, his city remains and so does his kin. Even the Sindar elf Legolas Greenleaf has established a new colony in the woods of South Ithilien."
They were not so far away from the known world to be ignorant of the tales regarding the Fellowship who embarked upon the quest to destroy the Master Ring of Sauron. The deeds of Aragorn, Legolas, Gandalf the Grey and the rest of the Nine Walkers were known to all his people. During the past three years, what was seen as an infamous crime by the former allies of Sauron, was celebrated by Kirin's people as a legend of courage to be admired by all. There were children born to his people who had never seen an elf in their lives yet knew of the Fellowship and of Legolas Greenleaf.
"I find it hard to believe that they would involve themselves in the affairs of men even if such was the case. Gondor and Rohan has cause to attack because of the Confederacy invaded their lands but it was my understanding that Dallanar had no wish to involve the Eldar in this conflict," Andros added further.
"I share you scepticism," Kirin said directly to Andros and then continued to explain. "It was Dallanar's intention to intimidate the First Born into remaining neutral in the conflict. However, his methods of intimidation left a great deal to be desired and he made a fatal miscalculation in his dealings with the elves."
Kirin thought of what his spy had told him and even now had difficulty believing the sheer audacity of Dallanar's reasoning. How could he have been so presumptuous as to gamble the fate of his people on such a mistaken belief. As one who led himself, Kirin could not imagine taking such a risk with so many lives at stake. Unfortunately, Dallanar was about to learn the price of his presumption and unfortunately for him, his people may learn it with him.
"Erroneously believing that the race that fought the balrogs and Morgoth's dragons could be cowered by a Haradrim threat," Kirin continued speaking, "Dallanar directed the Easterlings to attack Eden Ardhon, the elven colony under the lordship of Lord Legolas. From what I've been able to discern, the city and the wood surrounding it was ravaged by flame and by the onslaught of mumakils. If that were the extent of it, I believe the First Born would have withdrawn and allowed Dallanar his victory but it appears there were further orders issued beyond the sacking of the city."
"What sort of orders?" Radil, another tribal chieftain inquired. Radil was oldest of the tribal leaders and it was only bloodline that kept him from occupying Kirin's seat a leader among them. Nevertheless it was not a circumstance that made the older man resentful for he was a good friend and wise councillor.
"He ordered that the women were to be violated and to this end, the Easterlings who carried out the sacking were most efficient. What women they found were subjected to this disgrace, including the wife of Lord Legolas," Kirin announced grimly, his stomach hollowing in disgust because this effected him on a far more personal level than anyone present were aware at the moment.
Kirin could not volunteer any further information because the room exploded into a roar of outrage as men across the room expressed their disgust as such heinous actions. Among his people, to violate a woman was a crime that was akin to murder and deserving of the harshest penalties. Kirin shared their anger and tried to call for calm so that he could tell them what had resulted from Dallanar's actions in Eden Ardhon.
"The First Born will destroy the Haradwraith!" Someone shouted and this cry was echoed throughout the chieftains.
"It would appear so," Kirin announced grimly. "The Eldar army leads the advance into Haradwraith and so far Axinar, Laxor, Bracat and Turazon have fallen to their onslaught with the massacre of every male capable of bearing arms. Only women and children have been left unharmed. Dallanar has pulled back what remains of the Haradrim forces to the Sanara belt in order to protect the cities but he cannot withstand the united assault of the First Born, Gondor and Rohan. The savagery of the elves has prompted the Easterlings into mobilizing. They fear that since they are the ones directly responsible for the assault on Eden Ardhon, the elves will their attention to Rhun once they have secured Haradwraith. The Variags of Khand are dispatching five thousand troops to help with the defense. They wish to halt the elven advance in Haradwraith before its spill into their border."
Kirin paused and let the words sink into the consciousness as the conflict in all its ugliness and scope was laid before them. They had a decision to make even though for Kirin his own mind was made up. Unfortunately, leading the tribes did not mean he was able to arbitrarily decide who they would fight. Such a decision required the consent of all the Tribes.
"There you have it my friends," he spoke after a moment. "This is the war that we have been waiting for all our lives, the one that will bring an end the constant need to defend our homes against the enemy. We have fought against the Easterlings and the Haradrim for centuries because we would not serve Sauron. For that, they have plagued us with all manner of peril and yet we have prevailed. If the Haradwraith and Rhun fall to the men of the west, we will at last know peace. The Gondorian and Rohirrim army will be joining the elven ranks, if they have not already and begin the push eastward. What we must decide is if we wish to aid them in this effort. If we can strike an alliance with the armies of the west, we can offer them the opportunity to force their enemy into a war on two fronts."
A murmur went through the crowd as everyone considered the possibility of choosing a side in this war and once again, Kirin saw Andros rise to his feet with a question upon his lips.
"Are we certain that the elves will trust us?" He asked. "If the First Born are massacring villagers in vengeance for the assault upon their colony, how certain are we that they will not see us as enemies? We are unknown to them."
And here it was, Kirin thought to himself, the last piece of the puzzle they did not have which he knew, the piece that had given him the idea to throw in their lot with the armies of the west. He hoped they saw the value of it as much as he did.
"There is a further piece of information that has come into my keeping,"
Kirin said neutrally. "It is regarding the wife of Legolas
Greenleaf."
The mention of the lady silenced everyone because they were all puzzled as to what an elven lady had to do with the decision they were making.
"I have learnt that she is not of the First born but a mortal," Kirin announced and saw understandable shock on the faces before
"Do they marry mortals?" Radik asked with genuine curiosity.
"Apparently so," Kirin answered, "it is said that the wife of Legolas Greenleaf is not merely human but she comes from the Sunlands. My friends, I know that this may be impossible to believe and when I first heard, I could not begin to describe to you my astonishment but it is the truth nonetheless. The wife of the elven Lord Legolas is none other than Melia, daughter of Hezare."
In the wake of the news, there was none of the excitement earlier but rather muted shock. They all knew of Melia, the only daughter of Hezare their greatest general, who had fled more than thirteen years ago to parts unknown following the death of her father. It was assumed that the girl was dead, After all, women could not survive on their own for very long without a man. However, no one had expected this to be her fate.
"Yes," Kirin began speaking again, certain that they were listening to his every word. "There is no doubt, the wife of the elven lord is Hezare's daughter. They have been wed for little more than a year and she rules now as his side as the Lady of Eden Ardhon. In light of this intelligence, we have a valid reason for striking an alliance with the First Born that is beyond all reproach. Melia is the daughter of our greatest warrior. We who cherish the memory of Hezare cannot ignore the injury to her honor. Upon my personal honor am I bound to align myself and my house to the cause of Lord Legolas because custom dictates that I must pledge allegiance to the husband of my kinswoman. The Tribe of Bors will not sit by and allow one of its own to be disgraced."
The agreement to fight for Hezare's daughter roared throughout the room as filled the gathering hall with thunderous applause. Kirin could feel the walls shudder around him in the commotion and he hoped that wherever she was, Melia knew that she had family who still considered her one of their own, even now.
Kirin had certainly never felt any differently, especially when it was he that helped her to escape.
***********
It was not quite dawn when Aragorn appeared at the edge of the Gondorian camp and stared at the horizon, knowing that beyond the craggy terrain and parched desert landscape, his homeland awaited him. It had been so long since he had seen Arwen that he ached each time he thought of her touch and it instinctively drove his fingers to the Evenstar pendant that hung from his neck. Tracing the smooth texture of the jewel that was given to him by one who made all jewels pale in comparison, Aragorn felt closer to his wife even though she was leagues away. He missed her terribly and wondered how she coped with his absence because without her, there was a gaping emptiness in his heart.
The camp was silent because most of his men were still catching up on their sleep after the hard trek to reach this rendezvous point. Aragorn was alone as he swept his gaze across the collection of tents and bodies sprawled over bedrolls. The Rohirrim camp was nearer to the watering hole because of their horses and Aragorn was grateful for that because it meant that the horses would be down wind from the rest of them. He had told no one of his early rising but it was a secret he would be unable to conceal indefinitely. Indeed the moment he cast eyes upon the other leaders of the Ruling Council, he would have to provide some explanation if it was not entirely the truth.
His attention shifted away from the camp at the short neighing of a horse or rather a small pony. Turning around, he saw Gimli preparing his mount for the journey across the desert, ensuring that all the necessary gear was attached to his saddle. The pony was ridiculously small in comparison to Aragorn's own horse but then a dwarf riding was a rare enough occurrence without expecting him to be astride a full size animal. The pony was from the mountains of Rohan and had been a gift from Legolas to the dwarf. Aragorn smiled remembering the occasion when Gimli had proved to Legolas that he was more than capable of riding the animal.
He longed for those days once again.
"Are you ready?" Aragorn asked approaching the dwarf.
"More or less," Gimli declared making sure the saddle was secured properly to the animal. "It's going to be a long ride but I think I can manage it."
"If you like I can send one of my men with you," Aragorn offered, not liking the idea of Gimli becoming lost in all this vast open space now that the dwarf had mention some trepidation in the journey.
"I do not need a nursemaid," Gimli snorted gruffly, even though he was aware of the sentiment behind the suggestion. "If I can learn to ride this blasted nag, I can ride to Gondor."
The pony snorted suddenly as if it took offense at its master's description but was soon rewarded with a gentle stroke of its flaxen mane by Gimli. In truth, the dwarf really did love the animal even though it would require the inquisitors of Mordor to make him admit it openly. Aragorn watched his friend with the animal and felt a deep sense of pride at Gimli's courage in fighting the dwarf's natural aversion to riding in order master the animal.
"I have no doubt of that," Aragorn replied warmly before meeting his gaze with a more serious tone to his voice. "You know what to say to her?"
"Yes," Gimli nodded having discussed this with the King of Gondor before this departure. "Tell Melia that the elf is in trouble."
"Knowing Melia, that will be enough to set her on the road here," Aragorn replied. "She has a Ranger's conviction."
"Not to mention stubbornness," Gimli retorted before adding further, "what if she wants to know what kind of trouble he is in?"
That was not so easy to answer, Aragorn decided as he lapsed into silence while he considered how to respond to Gimli's query. If Legolas was right and Melia was already burdened with the guilt of being unable to save the child murdered by the Easterlings, how on earth was she going to cope with the knowledge that her husband was rampaging through Haradwraith slaughtering innocents because of her? Though she was in no way responsible for Legolas' actions here, it could not be denied that the slaughter was committed out of her husband's need to avenge her violation.
Yet it was also wrong to deceive her if she wished to know the truth.
"Then you must tell her," Aragorn spoke finally because there was no other answer. She had a right to know even if he wished otherwise. Melia was a strong woman, far stronger than Legolas gave her credit, Aragorn was certain. One could not be a Ranger of the North for as long as she without possessing an iron clad resolve. He was certain that as painful as the truth might be for her to hear, Melia would be able to endure it.
"I was afraid of that," Gimli frowned. "She has been through a great deal already, must she be told?"
"It will be hard to conceal when you return to these lands. She is an Easterling of noble birth with enough education to be able to speak their languages and that of the Haradrim. She will hear the truth one way or another, it is best that it comes from us not from strangers."
"I hope we are right about this," Gimli met his gaze and despite his crusty demeanor, Aragorn could see the extent of his worry for Legolas as well as Melia. "He will not be happy that we interfered."
"By the time he knows, Melia will be here and I do not think that Legolas is so lost to his hatred that her presence will not in some way give him pleasure," Aragorn confessed. "Hopefully enough to diffuse his outrage that we have gone behind his back to fetch his lady."
"Alright," Gimli sighed, "but if I am impaled by any elvish arrows, I will hold you entirely responsible."
Aragorn laughed as Gimli mounted the horse and was able to meet the king eye to eye for a change. "What will you tell him when he asks where I have gone?"
"I will tell him that you are on king's business," Aragorn returned.
"I do not think that will satisfy him," Gimli replied, "just do not let him think I abandoned him."
"He knows better than that," Aragorn answered.
"I used to think that but I am no longer as certain," Gimli said sadly. "I long for the friend with whom we chased Uruks across Rohan, I miss him."
"We will get him back," Aragorn reached for his arm and squeezed gently. "I am not ready to give up on Legolas just yet."
"Neither am I," the dwarf answered returning the gesture with as much affection. "Do you have any tidings for your lady?"
Aragorn thought of all the things that he wanted to say to Arwen and knew that neither message nor words spoken by another could convey the depths of his emotions whilst they were apart.
Aragorn met the dwarf's gaze and said simply, "tell her that I think of her."
