In An Age Before

by Phantom Bard

Part 298 posted, in which Helluin and the Riders of Norðr-vestandóttir Bý aid the Third Marshal Haleth in Rohan's defeat of the Easterling invaders. Brutal weather, disease, and failing morale play a part. Aldburg is no sooner freed of the eastern threat when tidings come of the Dunlending's invasion from the west. OCs galore as usual.

189. In An Age Before Chapter 189

In An Age Before – Part 189

Now in Celenhár the funerals had concluded and o'er breakfast the next morn, that being 27 Gwaeron, Lord Níshír and Lady Brithil took counsel with Captain Úcúnon, Prince Gwíthír, and Mithrandir. The lord and lady had prepared griddle cakes accompanied by a heap of shredded and pan-fried potatoes and onions. The eggs of a dozen hens had been scrambled with milk and slowly heated in a double boiler 'til they were soft and gelatinous and begged for a touch of salt and pepper. Pitchers of cider and fresh milk stood on the table along with a lidded bowl of fresh churned butter, a honey pot, a jam pot, and a sauciére filled with syrup boiled down from the sap of sugar maples. The meal began after observing the period of reverent silence.

"Having aided in the liberation of Imladris, how next to advance the fight against Angmar," Prince Gwíthír asked. He was flush with the success of their campaign and eager for more.

"'Tis true that we were successful in that limited action, and I deem that 'tis only in such actions that we may prevail," Úcúnon said. "My command was threatened by an o'erwhelming force, and so my Men and I took sanctuary here. That force was but a fraction of the might of Angmar. Successfully assailing the host that worsted Fornost is not a thing to be accomplished by the Rangers and four hundred soldiers of Arthedain."

Mithrandir and the Lord Níshír nodded in agreement with the captain's assessment. Even pitting their count of Rangers against the blocking force had not been realistic 'til the Tor had been destroyed, the Easterling cavalry neutralized, and allies secured. Celenhár simply did not have the numbers to prosecute such a campaign.

Finally, it fell to Mithrandir to settle the issue with his foresight and a longer view of the struggle against evil in the north.

"The current occupation of Fornost by the Witch King is rightly the concern of the Dúnedain. If Fornost is to be liberated and Arthedain reestablished, 'tis King Arvedui or Prince Aranarth who shall lead that fight. Yet I have foreseen a greater necessity that bids me urge ye to remain in Celenhár. The training of the Dúnedain in the ways of the Rangers is now of paramount importance to the future."

The Istar looked 'round the table and met each of the others' eyes. Though restrained by the Elder King's charge to his order from revealing his Maia powers overtly, each of them felt his complete certainty behind the gravity of his request. And a request it was, even with the subtle influence of Narya. Mithrandir did not command Men or Elves. 'Twas e'er their choice whether to follow his wisdom or not, and yet the more one knew of him, the greater was the inclination to accept his words.

Captain Úcúnon was first to nod his agreement. Learning the ways of the Rangers was his own desire and he was encouraged by Mithrandir's belief that his cause was important and correct. He was also in his early fifteenth decade, no longer a young soldier eager for glory, but rather a seasoned veteran bound by a lifetime of duty, who found slaughter increasingly distasteful. His great hope now was to present his king with an alternative manner of warfare, for he clearly saw their present methods as a doomed enterprise when pitted against an immortal foe.

The Lord Níshír also accepted Mithrandir's belief. He had inherited both the lordship of an ancient town and an ancient title. He deemed his charge in both was to endure as a free holding of Men, particularly, the Middle Men of Eriador. His priority was defense. The Dúnedain were his neighbors and allies, but no longer his o'erlords. The Realm of Rhudaur had fallen o'er six centuries aforetime. Yet training the Men of Arthedain as Rangers, as his own people had been trained by the Men of Cardolan long ago, would enhance their capabilities in defending their lands, and by extension, his lands as well. His esteem for the Istar merely reinforced his beliefs.

Lady Brithil was glad to have her husband, her son, and her people remain in The Angle, the stronghold of the Rhudaurim. Two thousand five hundred Men served as Rangers, most of their families had served for generations, and she was loath to see them deployed on foreign soil in a foreign cause against an o'erwhelming foe. Win or lose, their security would be weakened after. With a wife and mother's heartfelt relief, she nodded her agreement to Mithrandir's words.

'Twas only Prince Gwíthír who was disinclined to remain at home. At the age of twenty-two, he was still flush with his status as a Ranger, still enamored of the glory of battle, and still eager to strike against the great evil of his time. He had been disappointed when Helluin had not chosen him to meet the Laiquendi, yet he had understood her reasoning. The recent battle to free Imladris was the high point of his budding military career, indeed his only major engagement, and he yearned for the opportunity to join the fight against Angmar. The decision not to march on Fornost was difficult for him to understand. Still, his father was lord and king and he agreed with the old counselor, about whom the prince felt great curiosity and not a little fear. From various remarks and some lore, it seemed that Mithrandir had been 'round well 'nigh fore'er. Finally, he too nodded. He would follow the orders of his lord and father, and he would remain in Celenhár to discharge his duties and aid in the training of the Dúnedain if assigned to do so.

Mithrandir breathed a sigh of relief. The agreement of these four was most important to the advancement of his cause, and but one more was needed to cement the future he foresaw. About this he could not openly speak, and yet in dim visions of the future he saw a Man, a Dúnadan, perhaps even the one long ago foretold by Iarwain Ben-adar, in the drab raiment of a Ranger, oft alone yet ne'er wavering in his conviction to oppose the darkness. If he was indeed he of whom the prophecy spoke, then 'naught in this time was more important than the acceptance of the Ranger way by the survivors of Arthedain. Alas for King Arvedui, 'twas to his son Prince Aranarth that the Istar would make his plea, if necessity and what Captain Úcúnon had learnt was not argument enough.

Ere does the time seem short, the Maia thought, and yet like all else, that which is meant to be shall come to pass in its proper time, for acceptance of and faith in The Song is the first wisdom. Arnor shall ne'er be restored in this Age, and as Malbeth foresaw, t'will be long ere an Heir of Isildur reigns again in the north.

Now following the departure of the Dúnedain and the Men of Celenhár from Imladris on 22 Gwaeron, Helluin and the Peredhel spent much time in counsel, advised by the Lord Glorfindel, Erestor, and others amongst the wise of the Hidden Valley.

"'Tis three weeks now since I last stood in Mithlond," Helluin told the others on the 24th, "and at that time, Círdan dispatched a ship to Forochel to rescue King Arvedui. No word had yet come from Gondor, and Fornost lay in the Witch King's grasp. Perhaps since then Gondor has come, Arvedui is rescued, and the Dúnedain's assault on Fornost is preparing. Or, perhaps Gondor remains absent, Arvedui is lost, the leaguer holds and Tindomul moves to assail Lindon. I know not for sure."

Those gathered muttered or sat silent in contemplation of her words. Having heard the best and worst possibilities, they suspected that the truth lay somewhere 'twixt them, but they had no way to know for sure without gathering more current tidings.

"The seasons turn and the time comes for war," Glorfindel said. "The campaigning season is upon us. The Witch King shall prosecute his goal of destroying the Dúnedain on Sauron's behalf. Helluin has told aforetime that Queen Fíriel, Prince Aranarth, and the people of Fornost have taken refuge in Lindon. 'Tis there, I reckon, that the hammer shall fall first."

"I agree," said Erestor, "for we present the lesser and more isolated threat. He can deal with us later, as an afterthought perhaps."

"He knows not that we have gained safe exit from Imladris," Elrond said, "and therein may lie an advantage, for a while. If we do indeed take our leave, we could deploy to positions more favorable for cavalry, say in the Lone Lands north of the road and west of the Last Bridge. Should the Host of Angmar march to assail the Hidden Valley, we shall know of it the sooner. We could then strike repeatedly as we withdraw home."

"Once past the Last Bridge, such a withdrawal would gain the aid of the Laiquendi, for the borders of the East Road are ideally suited to ambush and concealed shooting," Helluin added.

To this, Glorfindel and Elrond nodded in agreement. Such a retreat would be supported from the flanks, and on the narrow track of the road, 'twas not impossible for the rear guard to turn repeatedly on their pursuers, inflicting hurt for each mile conceded. Should they be forced all the way back to the defile, they now possessed a fearsome weapon whose like the Witch King would not suspect, but which even he would come to fear.

"Should we not bring the weapon?" Erestor asked. By now all knew of the destruction it had wrought in the battle to liberate Imladris.

"The whole construction is delicate and the crystal lens particularly so, as is its alignment within the tube," Elrond answered. "'Twas ne'er built to travel and I would not jeopardize it save at great need."

Erestor and the rest nodded, accepting his reservations. Apparently being pushed on a handcart for a short distance was one thing, whilst being hauled for hundreds of miles behind a horse was quite another.

"Send a company to the Last Bridge to keep watch for foes on the road to the west," Elrond ordered. "Should they report no opposition, it shall most likely mean that the Witch King has chosen to assail Lindon. If so, then we ride to the Lone Lands on 1 Gwirith, leaving the weapon where it is, under guard at the end of the defile."

"I shall inform the Green Elves of our intent and return ere ye ride hence," Helluin said. As she rose to take her leave, she muttered, "My horse would ne'er forgive me if I fail to ride him into battle."

Helluin rode Barq 'cross the Ford of Bruinen and west along the Great East Road that afternoon. They had come not a mile ere they were passed by a company of a dozen mounted Noldor galloping west. Barq pranced for a moment, eager to follow.

"Steady," Helluin said softly, "they ride not to battle, only to keep watch at the Last Bridge."

The Eastern horse came to a halt and twisted his head 'round to look Helluin in the eyes.

Keep a watch for who, or what, O Helluin?

They shall espy the lands west of the bridge in case any from Angmar should approach. 'Tis not expected though, and I deem their post shall be boring.

I see, Barq said, yet I also deem that something is afoot, else we should still be in Rivendell.

To this, Helluin nodded in agreement.

Having achieved the freeing of Imladris, the Lord Elrond deems our liberty wasted should we not sally forth. Therefore, should no foes approach, in a week we shall ride with the cavalry of Imladris, at least so far as the Lone Lands east of Amon Sûl.

Seeking foes? The horse bobbed his head as if enjoining her to agree. She was hard pressed not to roll her eyes.

Indeed so, and I would welcome their appearance for I have long desired to encompass the destruction of that miserable wraith, once and for all. I know some others who crave to shed the blood of his host as well.

I, I, I shall gladly drink the blood of thy foes, O Helluin, Anguirél declared in muffled tones from within her scabbard.

I too shall take lives and send spirits to the Void, the Sarchram chimed in from the clip at Helluin's waist.

Barq pranced with happiness and well 'nigh as soon as his eyes were again on the road, Helluin shook her head. Her allies were as bloodthirsty and eager as young recruits, and they had been too long deprived of a major battle.

They continued at a comfortable walk for another hour 'til they came to the place where the Dúnedain had first engaged the rear guard of the blocking force but a few days past. By the evidence of bodies still lying untouched, she deemed the Yrch exterminated, for had any survived, no such wealth of meat would have been ignored.

"We shall continue another mile so as to leave this carnage behind ere we make a camp for the night," she said. She had to stifle a chuckle when Barq tilted his head up to gauge the position of the sun. Finally, he sighed.

Very well, Helluin, he said with obvious reluctance, though another two hours of daylight remain and I had hoped to run.

"Should we meet the Green Elves this night, thou can run all the way back to Imladris, I promise."

After what Helluin deemed to be another mile, they stopped and simply walked a furlong into the woods to the south of the road where a stream ran through a small field. There they made a minimal camp in the manner of the Rangers, consumed some rations and waited. Eventually, night fell as 'tis wont to do. Barq snacked, nibbling on newly sprouted grass whilst Helluin relaxed her etheric barrier and watched the stars. To mortal eyes, they were all but invisible for they had lit no fire. To Elvish eyes, the aura of Helluin's unconcealed fëa was as a spiritual beacon fire, visible for miles.

Now 'round midnight Helluin sat up and searched the woods that encircled the field. She sensed the presence of several of those she had sought. Barq marked her arising and looked on with curiosity. After a few moments, the Noldo pinpointed the location of the silent watchers and beckoned them hence.

From the verge of the wood to the south came four figures, shadowy and hard to track despite the abandonment of their stealth. Even ere their arrival at the dark campsite, Helluin bore a wide smile. Here was a friend she had not met in centuries.

"Mae govannen, meldir nín Gwilolrán," Helluin said, dipping her head to the lieutenant of the Laiquendi, "'tis long since we last met."

"Mae govannen, meldis nín," he said with a smile. "Aye, it hath been so indeed…Celenhár in the time of the Plague, 1636."

Helluin gave him a grim nod. It had been 'nigh on three and a half centuries since those days.

For a moment, they fell silent and Helluin marked that Gwilolrán seemed to wrestle in thought with some topic. A look of sorrow shaped his features.

Finally, he sighed and said, "I saw her last of us all, accompanied by Dalâl just ere they entered Hadhodrond. With Naugrim of Khazad-dûm, we turned back a force of Yrch who had attempted to enter Eriador o'er the Caradhras Pass. We slaughtered so many that the survivors turned tail and fled back into the mountains, three hundreds at most."

Helluin's eyes widened at his words. He had been the last of the Green Elves to see Beinvír as she had made her way from Elrond's council in Imladris to her audience with Durin VI in Khazad-dûm. 'Twas the first clue she had heard since leaving Durin in 1851.

"Thy words are of greater worth than thou can know, meldir nín. In the aftermath of Beinvír's disappearance, soldiers of Khazad-dûm found a company of their traders that she had sought to protect amongst the bodies of slain Yrch numbering o'er two hundreds. Some of these they found shot with her arrows, and others hewn by her knives, but the greatest count was worsted by unknown allies bearing swords. I wager those Yrch were the same as fled thy battle 'nigh the Ennyn Durin."

Gwilolrán nodded to her. He had not heard aforetime of the discoveries in Nanduhirion.

"For 'nigh a century and a quarter I sought for any tidings of my beloved's disappearance. In the Hithaeglir, I questioned many Yrch and none knew 'aught. 'Tis a mystery still, her allies, her disappearance, and her present state, for I know she is not dead," Helluin told him.

"Thou feel her presence still?" The lieutenant of the Laiquendi asked, just to be sure.

"Aye, our connection remains, yet ne'er since the day she disappeared have I heard 'aught in reply to my calls 'cross that link 'twixt our fëar."

"And yet there is still hope for her return," Gwilolrán said. "I shall share these tidings with those who know her best."

To this, Helluin nodded in agreement. T'would be good for Dálindir, Tórferedir, Gérorn, and Celegaras to hear if they had not learnt of it already. The Noldo realized that she had seen none of them since they had taken leave of their campsite in 1851, just ere the Lord Elladan had arrived to call her and Beinvír to Elrond's council in Imladris. She shook her head. She still owed the king and his company a dinner of roasted pheasant.

"I came hither to share tidings," she said, recapturing his attention. With a nod, he bid her continue. "On 1 Gwirith, 'tis Lord Elrond's intention to lead his cavalry west to the Lone Lands, there to better survey any movements of the enemy. He hopes that should he be driven back in retreat, thy people may aid in covering their flight down the East Road to Imladris." She canted her head north where lay the road.

"We have kept close watch on the road and the lands bordering it since the appearance of the blocking force was reported," Gwilolrán said. "Of late we shot o'er a hundred deserters fleeing the battle to liberate the Hidden Valley. We shall slay howsoe'er many more as come before us."

Helluin gave him a smile and said, "I shall convey thy words to the Peredhel."

"Has the company seen riding west in haste earlier this eve 'aught to do with this plan?"

"Aye. They were deployed to keep watch west from the Last Bridge o'er Mitheithel," Helluin answered. "Should they report seeing 'naught of the foe, the cavalry of Imladris shall ride."

Gwilolrán nodded, but then regarded her again with a look of uncertainty regarding some topic about which he had questions. Finally, after a raised brow from Helluin prompted him to speak, he said, "we have heard some mention from the Yrch of a Ghâshgûl. Know thou 'aught of this creature which so terrifies them?"

Helluin marked the other three in his company leaning closer with vulturine attention, as if drooling in anticipation of obtaining some tidbit of arcane knowledge, or perhaps settling some wagers. She groaned.

"I seem to have acquired yet another title," she admitted, "Fire Wraith of the Hithaeglir."

The lieutenant of the Green Elves chuckled and eyed two of his company who grimaced in response. Wagers to settle…'tis as I suspected.

"And how came thee to be so celebrated amongst such unsavory creatures?" Gwilolrán asked outright, a surprise coming of one from a people long known for being unintrusive regarding the affairs of others. Beside him, the other three snickered.

"I spent some quality time amongst them, asked some questions, and slaughtered all who failed to satisfy my curiosity," Helluin said. She then explained that, "I had acquired a succession of tattered black cloaks, and so to them appeared as one of the Úlairi. Also, I confronted them with blazing Light that they abhorred. In one hundred and twenty three years, I met not a single one who knew 'aught of Beinvír's disappearance, and so rewarded their ignorance with death, sixteen thousand times, more or less. They are scarce now 'twixt the High Pass and Methedras."

The grins had died on the Green Elves' faces and the chuckles were stilled in their throats. They regarded her now with a mixture of awe, fear, and uncertainty.

"Thy threat at our first meeting, 'twas spoken in earnest," Gwilolrán said softly. "Neither shalt thou take me, nor lay me in bonds, and should thou constrain my beloved I shalt hunt thee down, nay, not just thou alone nor those who lay hands upon her, but all thy people unto the last though it take 'til the end of days," he recited from memory.

"Of course," Helluin said, thinking, 'twas three thousand five hundred years ago, for crying aloud. "In those days the Laiquendi were neither friends nor allies, and though my relationship with Dálindir's company had been cordial, they were long gone and my mood then came from the threats and accusations of thy general. Much has changed since, and with Tórferedir I have forged a friendship and understanding."

"In those days, Dálindir's company was trapped in the house of Iarwain Ben-adar," Gwilolrán recalled, "and then the Glamhoth invaded. 'Twas Tórferedir's duty to marshal our people."

Helluin nodded. The old general had been left to command the defense of their homeland in a war against his peoples' most fearsome enemy, and without his king. His last major battle had been on Amon Ereb and they had lost. She set the insight aside and addressed his first statement.

"Aye, by then they had been captive for o'er four centuries. Only Beinvír still kept faith that they would be released."

For a while, both stood with eyes seeing memories now far off. The other three Green Elves gave them their peace. O'erhead the stars twinkled as Barq cropped the occasional mouthful of grass, chuffed with the pleasant night. Finally, Gwilolrán blinked and exhaled a deep breath. With a hand sign, he gestured his companions away and they retreated to the woods on the south side of the field whence they had come.

"'Til next we meet, meldis nín," he said, "I wish thee victory and the discovery of what thou seek."

"Remain safe, meldir nín," Helluin replied. "Pray give my greetings to our friends."

Morning came a few hours later and Helluin led Barq back toward the road.

They seem a goodly lot, Barq said of the Green Elves.

Yes, they are, but also deadly with the bow and secretive beyond the ken of any others.

And thou hast had thy differences with them aforetime?

Only in the beginning with some. Since then, they have become allies and friends.

I see, but on a time thou threatened to exterminate them?

It seemed a good idea at the time. Thou know how it goes. Things can become…heated.

So how many are they, these Green Elves?

I have no idea. Indeed, I suspect that they have no idea. I doubt if all of them have e'er been gathered together in one place at one time.

By then they had reached the road and Helluin mounted.

"Ready to run, O Barq?" She asked.

Rather than answer, the Easterling horse simply lurched into a full gallop and shot down the road heading east. They covered the league to the slot canyon in but six minutes and slowed to a walk ere entering the narrow way. Barq was still stepping smartly, clearly spoiling for a longer run. Helluin waved to the sentries and they waved her onward. Soon enough they exited the defile and came to the field that lay before the ford, and after crossing it, reached the Ford of Bruinen. There they crossed into the Hidden Valley.

After following the path from the ford, Helluin brought Barq to the fields that lay adjacent to the stables. There she dismounted.

"I must come to the Lord Elrond, but I leave thee at thy leisure. Should thou desire further exercise, pray feel free to run in the valley. When I return, I shall bring thee a treat from the kitchen," she told him.

Indeed, I feel the desire to stretch my legs for a bit. I shall run to the end of the valley, he declared. One of those apple tarts would be most welcome, or perhaps two, he added.

Helluin nodded and then strode off towards the Peredhel's study, rolling her eyes. 'Twas a roundtrip of o'er a hundred miles that Barq had proposed. Behind her, he broke into a canter that quickly graduated to a gallop as he struck the path leading down the valley floor alongside the river. His hoof beats quickly faded into the distance.

Coming to Elrond's study, she found her friend poring o'er maps of the Lone Lands and the king's roads. He looked up and offered her a smile of greeting, then gestured her to a chair before his desk. Helluin glanced at the maps as she sat.

"Hast thou word from the Laiquendi?" Elrond asked straightaway.

"Aye. I met with Gwilolrán, their lieutenant and a friend of long acquaintance. He reports that all the lands 'nigh the road are 'neath his peoples' watch and they shall gladly slay any foes coming thither. Following the battle on the 20th, they slew o'er a hundred fleeing the battle. I deem that no word has come to the Witch King."

"Excellent," the Peredhel said with a smile. "Should no word come from the scouts we shall ride on the 1st. I pray thee join us, Helluin."

"I should not miss it for all Arda," Helluin replied. "My horse would ne'er again give me a moment's peace should we not ride to battle."

The following days brought no word of warning from the scouts at the Last Bridge. Knights prepared their horses and kit and checked their weapons and armor. Helluin wandered the grounds, enjoying the spring growth in the gardens and the sounds of water and bird song.

Finally, on 1 Gwirith, the cavalry of Imladris assembled on the field beyond the ford with Elrond and Glorfindel at their head. They walked their mounts through the narrow way and onto the Great East Road. There they formed up in companies, unfurled their banners, and at Elrond's command, rode forward at a trot. Just shy of four hundred fifty Noldor in bright plate armor advanced from the Hidden Valley. Spears they carried, and polished shields scribed with runes and set with jewels were slung at their backs. Deadly swords hung in scabbards from their belts.

At the rear came Helluin, her antique, galvornwashed mithril armor again concealed 'neath a hooded black cloak. For the first time in centuries, she wore the mail coif that matched her armor. Anguirél and the Sarchram hung at her sides, whilst 'cross the back of her belt was sheathed the dagger she had forged in Aman.

Concealed in the woods flanking the road, many Laiquendi watched the procession. When it had passed, they could not dismiss the impression that half a thousand fine and fancy knights were being herded hence as the prisoners of a Ringwraith.

The Knights of Imladris continued down the road alternating 'twixt a trot and a walk, and by noon, 'twas evident that Elrond intended to make the ride to the Last Bridge in two days. 'Neath Helluin, Barq pranced and sidestepped. Helluin groaned. Her mount was as eager to run as she was to see the end of the Trollshaws. Finally, as the column stopped for lunch, Helluin rode forward and came to the Lord of the Hidden Valley.

"My lord," she said, adding a respectful dip of her head, "with thy leave I shall ride ahead to hear the most current reports of the scouts. Should 'aught have changed, I shall return bearing word."

Elrond eyed the Easterling horse well 'nigh prancing in impatience 'neath her and nodded his assent. "A good precaution, Helluin. An early warning of any actions would be quite welcome."

With a nod to the Peredhel, she turned Barq back onto the road and gave him his head.

Finally, he said with a sigh of relief as they broke into a gallop, they ride as debutantes to a soirée.

Helluin chuckled. From her first sight of Tirion in Aman, she had deemed the Noldor o'erly preoccupied with finery, and that impulse had persisted through all the Ages since. In those days, she had been a wanderer of the Blessed Realm, utterly unconcerned with her appearance or the accumulation of wealth. She had explored all things, endlessly following her curiosity, and the Valar and Maiar had accepted her thus. Being in nature incorporeal beings of Light, they had not taken physical manifestations or accoutrements too seriously.

During those days, she had met far more of the inhabitants of the Undying Lands than any other amongst her people, and she had counted them friends, teachers, and regarded them with genuine reverence. This they had clearly perceived, for no heart is hidden from the Ainur.

This availed her during her second millennium in Aman. Feeling an inexplicable compulsion, she had dared to come to the Two Trees and stand 'neath the rain of their dews. Had the Valar held any doubts about her, she would have perished immediately. Instead, she was enriched far beyond the measure of any other of the Firstborn, and like all else save her dagger, she had gained upon the ethereal plane a far greater treasure than any she could have held in her hand.

The same attitude had ruled her dealings with the Naugrim. From her 'nigh five thousand two hundred year alliance with the Longbeards had come her priceless personal armor and the knowledge of their exoteric speech, and later, the forging of the Sarchram. In return, she had brought them the friendship of a whole realm and discovered the vein of ore that had provided them by now with probably o'er twenty-five tons of mithril. But more important to her heart were the friendships she had forged in the Dwarrowdelf, and the honor and friendship of a race who had oft been at odds with the Elves.

Barq had maintained a swift galloping pace since leaving the knights. He covered ground at a rate of roughly thirty-five miles an hour, tirelessly stretching his legs. After ten to twelve minutes, he would descend to a trot to catch his breath and measure his strength, then return to a gallop. In this way, they covered twenty-five miles each hour and as twilight drew down, Helluin rode to the Last Bridge. They had covered roughly a hundred miles since that morning.

The company of scouts had come to their feet when they had heard Helluin's approach, but recognizing her, relaxed and bid her welcome. 'Twas obvious that they had been at their leisure, sitting 'round a makeshift camp 'nigh the western end of the bridge, swigging from wine skins and preparing an evening meal. Bored, as expected, Helluin thought.

"Hast thou 'aught to report?" She asked the knight in charge of the detail.

He shook his head and said, "we have seen 'naught this past week save birds, squirrels, and a few deer." He gestured to a haunch turning on a spit o'er their campfire.

"Very good," Helluin said, to which he gave her a sour look. "The Lord Elrond should arrive in the evening on the morrow."

He nodded thanks for her tidings and resumed his seat by the fire, having been granted another day unsupervised ere his lord arrived. Helluin took Barq to a stream that ran down to Mitheithel where she allowed him to drink his fill. Afterwards, he cropped grass 'neath the trees at the verge of the Lone Lands, gazing out o'er the road and the flat lands to the west. When he seemed sated, Helluin offered him a final apple tart from her travel bag, and this he accepted eagerly.

Too good these are and I feel I have eaten many of late, he remarked after swallowing a mouthful. Do I look fat?

This time, Helluin could not help rolling her eyes.

Thou appear quite healthy and unchanged in girth since recovering thy health following thy leave-taking from the leaguer of Lindon.

Barq nodded his thanks for her reassurances, but could not resist twisting his neck to look down his flanks. Then he returned his gaze to the vast flatlands stretching out to the west. Helluin sensed a longing in his glance.

The Lord Elrond arrives not 'til the eve of the morrow, he began. Surely, we shall not languish hither in boredom.

Nay, we shall not, Helluin answered, no more inclined than her horse to spend a day sitting and watching the scouts drinking. In the morn we shall go west and scout the road for a day or so.

Are you sure we should not travel by night? Foes could be easily marked by their campfires.

Though she had thought Barq simply o'ereager in suggesting that they scout by night, his logic made sense. At least, such would be true of Men. Yrch might march in the dark without torches for they were adapted to seeing in almost no light, as in their filthy nests and lairs. Still, unless they were waiting in ambush, they tended to be loud, bickering and complaining constantly.

"Very well," she decided. "We shall advance 'neath the cover of darkness. How long can thou continue ere resting?"

I deem we can make three hours, forty or fifty miles at an easy pace on a flat and well-paved road.

Better served we would be to ride on the unpaved margin, the easier to remain quiet.

Perhaps after the first hour or two, for 'naught has been seen to the west by daylight.

Helluin nodded her agreement to this and walked back to the knights to share her intentions.

"Pray tell the Lord Elrond that I have gone to scout ahead," she said, "should I not return ere his arrival."

She marked several knights giving her envious looks that clearly said they would rather join her than maintain their boring post, but they were 'neath their lord's orders and were required to remain at the bridge. Alone of them all, Helluin was not Elrond's subject.

"Very well, Helluin. Good fortune and safe passage," the knight commanding the detail said. "We shall look to thy return."

With a nod, she returned to Barq and mounted. Soon they were riding off down the East Road galloping west. Full night had fallen and the land lay still and silent save for the beat of Barq's hooves. The trees soon failed and a scrubby landscape of low, rolling hills spread out to either side. North and south, 'naught moved 'neath the starlight and Ithil's glow. They saw none ere they stopped a couple hours ere midnight. Helluin led Barq off the road and south into what had been the northern borderlands of Cardolan. There she found a sheltered dell with a few low trees and a small stream running through its bottom, and there they took their rest for the remainder of the night. They had come fifteen leagues from the Last Bridge.

To Be Continued