Chapter One
A single drop fell from the already darkened sky. The single drop landed delicately rolling off of a crimson leaf. A steady rain began to fall moistening the earth that lay beneath it. There was a flash of lightning and the roll of thunder as a battle broke out beneath the sky. There were angry shouts and the clash of metal as three figures battled there way to the front.
A haggard looking man parried an attempting attack at him. Two half-elves moved in closer to the human in protection. The human cast them a side-long glance and gave them a glare. Sensing the mortal's anger the two elves backed away a few paces, glancing occasionally as back-to-back; they majestically fought, warding off the foul creatures that attacked.
As the battle ended the three figures stood the ground littered with bodies. Catching their breath the two half-elves made their way to the haggard-looking mortal. The young man was bent over breathing heavily; his dark hair was soaked and hung limply covering his face.
One of the elves rushed over to him, rain streamed down his fair face, placing a slender hand on the human's shoulder, "How do you fair Estel?"
The mortal brought his eyes up and met them with the elf's. A smile graced his features, "Fine Elladan." He gave the elf a warm embrace surprising the elf. The second elf laughed lightly at Elladan's expression.
Elladan turned to the elf with a menacing look, "What do you find so amusing Elrohir?" He grinned widely as Elrohir's expression changed instantly.
Changing the subject Elrohir turned to Aragorn. "Must you tire yourself so much? Estel you need rest. Come let us find shelter." Aragorn nodded tiredly.
The rain slowed to a drizzle just enough to keep the warriors wet. The young man and elves worked their way to a path and followed it. Elladan and Elrohir walked on either side of him keeping a close eye on him. Aragorn mustered as much strength as he could and attempted to push his foster brothers away.
The twins exchanged looks and nodded in agreement. "Nay Aragorn, you know you should not push yourself so much." They found a small cave hidden by overgrown gorse and shrubbery.
As Elladan gathered firewood the other two checked the cave for unseen evil, finding none Elrohir forced the tired human to the ground, "Lay down Estel, I will be back shortly."
Aragorn refused impulsively, "Let me at least help you find the horses." Elrohir cast him a venomous glance quieting Aragorn immediately.
Elrohir stepped out of the cave and gave a shrill whistle. Listening intently he heard the clopping of hooves against wet gravel.
Three horses came into view, "Eller lle naa!" He exclaimed patting each horse in turn heat radiated from their body signaling that they had been running for quite some time. Clicking his tongue he led them to the cave, taking off the packs which were attached to the horse's saddles. Returning to the cave he placed the packs next to the sleeping human. Moving swiftly and quietly he rummaged through the packs and pulled out some elvish waybread wrapped in Lórien leaves.
Elladan pushed his way through the gorse carrying firewood. Exchanging a look with his twin, he nodded silently and started a small fire. When the fire had been lit it gave off smokeless warmth, warming the wet warriors. Elrohir took out his spare cloak and covered the sleeping human with it, handing his sibling some waybread in the process. Elladan accepted and gave silent thanks. Elrohir held his hands closer to the fire, the flames licked out at him giving off welcomed warmth. Fixing his gaze on the resting human, watching the gentle rise and fall of his chest comforted the elf. Both elves watched the flames pierce the darkness that filled the cave giving a crackle or spark every now and then.
A shrill cry woke the elves from their light doze. The fire had been extinguished leaving but for a few coals that glowed amber. The moon had not risen this night and the stars shown dimly. Both elves turned sharply to see if Aragorn had stirred. He shifted, but did not wake.
The glowing coals played at the elves' faces giving them an almost haunted look. Elladan and Elrohir began a debate with one another quietly.
"Elladan!" Elrohir hissed.
"I shan't be long Elrohir, I'm just going to check on the horses."
Elrohir lifted an eyebrow in disbelief, "Do not try to fool me. I know you intend to do more."
Elladan's shoulders slumped in defeat, "What do you propose we do then? We can't have them find us, surely then we will be caught."
The debate had awoken Aragorn, he lay on his side listening to the twins' quiet argument. After several moments he understood what they were debating about. Picking the perfect moment he grabbed his sword and crept out of the cave, sneaking passed his brothers.
Aragorn stood still feeling a little drowsy from the sleep he had just taken. Quietly he picked his way over to the horses. Three pairs of eyes turned towards him in puzzlement. Aragorn's horse, Aslathon pushed his muzzle against Aragorn's chest and pawed the ground impatiently.
Aragorn smiled and stroked his muzzle reassuringly, "All is well my friend, but I need of your stealthy legs." The horse bobbed its head in agreement. Hoisting himself up, Aragorn seated himself on Aslathon's back. Giving a gentle kick with his heels, Aslathon burst into a gallop taking them into the overshadowed forest.