100 Short One-Shots

by nyx thranduillon

So, I have been lured in to NirCele's 100 drabble challenge too. I am aiming to do them in order although timewise they will not run concurrently. Some may be book verse and some film verse and there may be some gentle slash. Hope you enjoy :)

6. Chapter 6 - Water

#6 Water

The last few notes of our heartfelt lament fade to join the incessant roar of the hungry river and the small craft bobs gently as if in farewell before turning in the increasing swell of the rushing water and being swept away from view. I know it will journey over the boiling falls that call out their impatience not far ahead and wonder how far the boat will carry its brave and loving burden.

For he was both those things.

I know that now.

That man of Gondor, who first seemed arrogant and over proud. Uncaring of the wider world, seeing only 'his' city and its needs. Denying his future king, demeaning all other races and coveting the one thing he should not.

I was blind.

I could not see.

The pride of a warrior who has pledged his life to save his home. The arrogance of a leader who knows his men will follow wherever he goes because he has won their respect. The care for a land under constant siege with none to aid in its defence. The mistrust of a sometime ruler claiming a throne long abandoned to its fate. The desperate desire for a trinket to protect and set free all those he loves so dear and restore their lives to peace whatever the consequences to those he does not know.

At last I understand as the rivers song swells around me and I turn back to pick up my bow.

We were not so unalike he and I.