Chapter 6

Through Forest Great and Mountains Cold

S.A. 534

They sat around a crackling fire, watching the embers drift waywardly into the darkening night sky. They had traveled far the past few days, taking few breaks. Finally, they had decided to break as the River Running turned to the west cutting into the forest bordering their flank. The travelers had been surprised to trek upon a group men camping along the forest. Elarinya and the others had stopped their mounts a good distance away, observing. The group was loud and boisterous, they clearly did not fear coming upon harm. Their fire was roaring and the smell of roasting meat drifting to their nostrils, their bellies rumbling in response.

"They do not seem malicious." Veryan stated, watching the interactions.

"We cannot make camp near them without drawing their attention." Ellethwen replied, truth to her statement.

"We shall ride down to meet them." Elarinya decided, not seeing another choice that would not take them away from their journey.

The initial encounter had been tense, the men jumping up scrambling for weapons as the riders approached, clearly not intending to happen on other travelers.

"Who goes there? State your purpose!" The man in front called forth. She took in his appearance. He seemed to be middle aged, large boned and well-muscled, standing close to six feet tall. His shaggy hair hung in dark waves past his shoulders, not having been washed recently. His clothes were well worn and traveled, his eyes wary of the newcomers.

Elarinya held up her hands in a gesture of peace, though the men did not lower their weapons. She spoke in broken common tongue, "Hail from Dorwinion. We are elves, no wish of fight."

Weapons still drawn the leader spoke again, "You come far from home, we have not had dealings with the elves since before evil befell the world."

"Travel far west. Looking for food and rest. Ride hard many days till now." She cringed at her own poor knowledge of the language. It was true what the man had said, many long years had passed since the races of men and elves mingled. The ravages of war splitting them.

Finally, their weapons lowered and they were offered a small smile. "Come, we have killed two large deer, more than plenty to share, you may share our camp this night."

"Many thanks," Faelon replied, placing a hand over his heart and giving a bow. They dismounted their horses and followed the men to the fire they now found themselves seated around.

The meat was deliciously tender, the smoky flavor of the fire hiding any linger wild taste there may have been. They had all eaten their fill and more, ale flowing freely. The drink was harsh to the elves, burning their throats and making them cough at first, much to the enjoyment of the Northman. It took a few large swigs to become accustomed to its taste. They had brought their wine with them, but chose to leave it packed, deciding it better to leave as a parting gift.

Imlach, that was the leader of the group, came and sat down by the elves, curiosity burning bright in his brown eyes. "So," he began, turning his gaze to the fire, "What brings a group of elves from the safety of their halls?" He was not lost of the glances they passed on another before landing on the female in the middle. Her dark hair was done in a fashion very strange to him. While it was clearly very long, it was styled in odd braids and cords that were intricately pulled away from her face. Beads and feather strategically placed throughout. Her angular face was beautiful but even his human eyes could see the shadows lingering there. This woman was their leader.

"I Elarinya daughter of Morwë, King of Dorwinion. Much war against evil of Morgoth and Sauron. Much grief. Seek peace and travel. Go west to shores of Forochel." She was not sure she should give away such information, she knew so little of the outside world, only having ever concerned herself with the land of her people, having little time for things other than war. However, they could not afford to make this journey without help and guidance.

"That is a far journey indeed. The mountain paths will be treacherous."

"Treacherous?"

"Aye. The dark lord may be gone, but Sauron lingers, this we all know" everyone nodded their head in agreement. "Orcs and trolls have fled to the Misty Mountains west of the Great Greenwood Forest at our feet. They have hidden deep in their crevasses and wolves prowl their heights. We have lost many good men from ambushes on our travels near the mountains."

"Thank you for warning." Veryan replied, grateful for the knowledge and warning.

Imlach nodded his head in response. "I see such talk burdens you, we shall not speak of such again. Tonight is for celebration! Tonight, we celebrate the reunion of our races in good faith!" Raising his glass, he held it in the air a split second before turning the mug up and draining it dry.

The elves eyed one another, then followed suit, each choking as the liquid went down. They all laughed, enjoying themselves more than they had in many years. The rest of the night was spent with men and elves enjoying one another's company, sharing customs and language, and stories of their youths. It was well into the night before they all fell asleep, soft snores echoing in the night.

Elarinyaawoke with the chirping of birds as the sun peaked over the horizon. She shielded her eyes from the blinding rays, wishing she had not partaken in the stout drink the previous night, but smiled in remembrance of their new friends. When they had started out she was not sure what they would expect along the way, and though the man's warning of the lingering dangers, her heart felt lighter. Elarinya could not help but think of the other people and races they may meet along the way, her mind eager to learn about the world she knew so little of.

Imlach approached as the elves packed their mounts, "I am saddened to see you off, but I am gladdened by the friendships gained."

Veryan smiled, "Aye, we too heartened, friends much needed in these times."

"Yes," the man nodded, "I wish to send two of my men with you, show you safe passage through the forest and to the foot of the mountain pass."

"Greatly appreciate, we do, but not needed." Elarinya replied, a small smile on her lips.

"They have volunteered, neither have families to return to, look to it as another toke of friendship. The forest holds its own mysteries. Some who venture in, do not return out, and to go around takes many days and closer to danger."

The elves regarded each other, speaking quietly in Avarin. In the end, they agreed to be led by the men, trusting them in safe passage and in friendship. "We shall accept." The princess spoke, pulling out a bottle of their finest wine. "We have not much to offer," she spoke, "This our finest wine. Take, please, gift to you."

Imlach smiled, reaching to take the offered gift. "Many thanks. Should you happen upon other men, aske for Belemir. He is a cousin of mine, descendant of Malach and of the house of Hador. Show them this," he handed her an old worn clay coin, "It is a token of friendship, and you shall be welcome among them."

"Many thanks." Elarinya wrapped her fingers around the coin, tucking it safely into a pouch at her side. As she pulled herself into the saddle, the others followed suit and they quickly galloped off after the men. The owl hooted above them, taking off from the tree branch to follow his mistress.