chapter 6
The light was barely filtering through the trees when the three riders were ready to leave.
"I'll go and put the nearby settlements on alert," Halbarad said, "they should know that there is such a monster out there."
"Be careful Halbarad." Aragorn muttered to his friend.
"I will, and you. I'll meet you back at he main camp." The older nodded before riding the horse away at a fast pace.
"Are you sure it is wise letting him go off alone with a wounded shoulder?" Legolas frowned.
"I have no doubts in Halbarad's skills as a fighter or a rider; he knows how to take care of himself," Aragorn watched the elf carefully, "come on, we should get going." He smiled and led his horse off, Legolas smiled and followed close behind.
The creature lurked behind a clump of bushes and contemplated whether to go after the lone rider but decided it would be more fun to go after the two others, at a pace that could have easily overtaken its prey it followed them, being certain to stay at a safe distance until it could strike.
After a day of riding it was obvious to Legolas that the human was tiring and trying to hide it.
"Estel, we should think of setting up camp." he suggested.
"What? Why?" he was distracted.
"The horses tire, as do you." He said softly.
"I am fine," he murmured, suppressing a yawn.
"What's wrong Mellon nin? You have been quiet for a while now."
"I don't know, something doesn't feel right...I can't place it though..." he trailed off, scanning the horizon again.
"Come on, this would be the perfect place to set up camp." Legolas suggested, halting the horses.
Hours later the two friends had eaten something that had been sent with them, grateful for a change from lembas.
"I'll take watch tonight, you need to rest," Legolas said firmly, the man did not bother to argue, knowing it would be pointless and settled down to sleep.
The creature saw the companions stop to camp for the night, and was delighted to see the blond one leave the sleeping one alone, now was the prefect time to strike.