Thank you Liza for your review and patience. I'm glad you like the story and things should be moving forward quite quickly and I promise the brothers will appear soon.
I own nothing and I hope you enjoy!
Sindarin
Chapter 9
When Nemir awoke the next day, she discovered that Morfindir had left earlier that morning. His borrowed clothing and blankets were folded neatly in a pile and left in the seat on a chair. She was disappointed that he had left without saying goodbye, but hoped that last night hadn't damaged their friendship. He seemed to handle the situation as well as could be expected, but maybe he was just putting on a brave face. She sighed as she gathered the pile of fabric to return it to storage, hoping that staying busy would clear her mind. No matter how hard she tried, however, her mind kept returning to Morfindir and how her actions might be affecting him..
"Well you're up earlier than usual," said Aeriel as she entered the cottage with a basket full of dried laundry.
"I was hoping to catch him before he left," replied Nemir as she sat at the table.
"It might be best to give the poor boy some space, but I feel as if he will come back around eventually. Help me fold this laundry." Nemir submerged herself yet again into her work and tried to find comfort in it's normality.
A few days later, the young foam maiden traveled down to the beach at noon hoping to find Morfindir waiting to begin their weekly lesson. Her heart sank when she failed to spot him on the shore, but reassured herself that he might just be running late and not to jump to conclusions. She settled down in the sand to wait, but as each minute passed, her hope faded. She waited for an hour and a half before finally giving up and chose to go for a swim to calm her mind. With the damage of Nimmon's actions still recent upon her mind, she decided not to use her fin as she slowly walked toward the waves.
A couple more weeks passed, and she still had occasional dreams of Nimmon as he hunted her through the sea. Sometimes he would capture her and parade her through the town in a cage. Other times she would pull him under the waves and watch as the light faded from his eyes. She never could decide which scenario was worse and wished she had Morfindir to talk to about these nightmares. She had continued to travel down to the shore each Highday at 12:00 pm, but he still had not appeared. Nemir was beginning to worry that something bad had happened to him, but when she asked her Ada he said he was still working at the docks.
Finally on the fourth week, Nemir traveled down to the beach to find Morfindir waiting for her. She rushed down to him, and threw her arms around him in a firm hug. The sudden force almost knocked him over and he was forced to steady himself to keep from falling over.
"Ulmo's beard! You're suffocating me Nemir," he said struggling through her tight grip.
She suddenly released him and an embarrassed blush rose to her cheeks, "I'm sorry. I...I was worried about you." As she examined his face, she could see dark circles under his tired eyes, "How are you? I became worried when you missed our lessons."
He let his body sink to the sand, "Things have been as good as could be expect. Nimmon's parents have kept him isolated due to his new...condition. While he hasn't implicated me, Aunt Bruiwen still suspects that I was involved somehow. She has been making things...difficult at home."
"I feel terrible," she joined him on the ground, "If not for me, you wouldn't be in this situation."
"You have to stop blaming yourself," he said as he grasped one of her hands, "I made my own choices."
"That's easier said than done," Nemir looked into his bright blue eyes. "While you were gone, I couldn't help but imagine all the ways your aunt was making your life miserable because of me."
"That's one of the reasons I came to meet you today," Morfindir pulled away from her and chose to stare out into the waves.
She was taken about by this sudden change in him, "What did she do?"
"I don't really want to go into details, but what little tolerance she had for me is gone," he paused and his shoulders slumped, "Because of this, my uncle think it best that I leave..."
"Leave!" exclaimed Nemir, "are they forcing you out?"
"In a way," he turned back to face her, "I'm traveling on a ship to Dol Amroth in the morning." She sat speechless for a second as her mind rejected his words. "I wanted to tell you sooner, but I couldn't risk being seen with you so soon," he continued rushing to explain," I...I want you to come with me."
Nemir blinked at him before stammering, "What? To Dol Amroth?"
"Yes," his took her hands back in his, "Just hear me out. You don't deserve to stay in this miserable village. Come with me and see the Sea-ward Tower. They say it's so tall you can see Minas Tirith when you stand at the very top. The city is so large you can live their with more anonymity and it's built right beside the bay so you can still swim regularly. I heard a merchant talking one time, and he said they have buildings with multiple levels. Can you imagine!? "
The desperation in his voice gripped Nemir's heart and she wished she could give him the answer he wanted. "I wish I could, but I haven't finished my training. Also, my family is here. I can't just leave them."
Her words deflated him and his shoulders fell, " I know it can be hard to look beyond the borders of home, but there are so many beautiful places in Middle Earth. Don't we deserve to experience them?"
"I can't train in a place so populated with people," explained Nemir as she looked intently into his handsome face. "I can't repeat what happened with Nimmon. I couldn't live with myself."
"I understand," he said quietly, "I knew you would stay, but I still had to try. Promise me this. When you do leave this miserable place, you will come to Dol Amroth and find me."
"I will," she promised. Morfindir gently cradled her face and gradually moved forward. He moved slowly giving her time to shift away, but she she watched mesmerized as his mouth came closer till it finally contacted hers. His lips were warm and soft as they pressed against hers gently and she leaned against him, returning his kiss.
He pulled away from her, a sad smile upon his face, "If by some miracle you change your mind, join me at the dock at sunrise." He placed one last quick kiss upon her lips before standing and running toward the path leaving Nemir on the beach below. She could only sit stunned as she lightly touched her lips that still held his warmth.
Five Years Later
Nemir quickly blocked an attack as a foot and a half long blade came barreling down from above. Spotting an opening, she sent a swift kick to the midsection of Mithiel forcing her teacher back and giving Nemir a moment to recover. The older mermaid thrust her bladed staff forward forcing her student to stop the blade by pushing the weapon to the side with her own identical staff. Mithiel spun her weapon forcing Nemir back a few steps before the two blades met again in the air, but Nemir's was forced down to the ground by her aunt's great strength. The opposing sharp edge released it's hold only to rush toward her head forcing her to duck to avoid decapitation. Using her lower position to her advantage, Nemir swept her staff under Mithiel's legs, but she easily flipped backward. Hoping to kept the offensive position, Nemir spun her staff to gain momentum before thrusting forward only to be blocked yet again.
"If you keep that up, I might be impressed," said Mithiel with a proud smile.
"Maybe you shouldn't have taught me all your best tricks," replied Nemir with a confident smirk.
"I kept a few for myself," using the blunt end of her weapon she stuck for her niece's knee causing her to fall to the sand before raising her blade and placing it under her victim's chin.
"I certainly will remember that one," grumbled Nemir as she acknowledged her defeat and allowed the scale armor that covered each leg to dissolve into smooth skin. The leather jerkin she wore provided some protection, but the scales protected her exposed legs, and though she had mastered this half form, it took more energy and focus to maintain.
"You did very well," said Mithiel as she assisted her to her feet, "Give it 500 years and you might be able to beat me."
"Really, sister," said Aeriel, "I think she will match your skills in 100 years time easily."
"Care to bet on that?" asked Mithiel mischievously.
"No. You won't get your hands on my Blue Fire blade so easily."
Nemir watched the exchange as she returned the hollow top of her bone staff over the blade and secured it in place with a twist. The addition of the end protected the metal from the salt water and allowed her to carry a bladed weapon without drawing too much attention. She was going to miss these regular meetings with her family. They had become such an integral part of her life that she couldn't quite imagine her week without them.
"You best not forget my lessons just because you live in a city of men. I don't want all my hard work to go to waste," said Mithiel as she gathered a satchel from behind a rock and handing it to Nemir, "This should help with that."
"What is this?" she shifted the leather bag and untied the knot to open it. In the bag, she found a long shirt made of leather and layered in large black scales. As she pulled it into the light, the color of the scales shifted from black to blue to purple and back to black again. Black leather lacing running down the top of the back helped to secure the armor in place after it has been put on. The scales on the sleeves were more delicate and traveled all the way down the arm till they reached the wrists. As Nemir held the armor against her, it seemed to stop around mid thigh with two slits, at each leg, to allow room for movement. She gazed down in awe of its craftsmanship and beauty, "Sea Serpent scales... I can't accept this."
"Of course you can. The rivers bring news of increased orc activity all across Middle Earth. They've been growing more bold ever since the elves let that necromancer corrupt Amon Lanc. I never understood why Thranduil let that situation continue as long as he did," said Mithiel.
Laegwen let out an uncharacteristically girly sigh as a dreamy look entered her eye, "Ah, as beautiful and as cold as star light he is". Nemir was surprised by this since she had never heard her aunt speak in such a way before. "
"Yeah, and he has one of his elk's antlers stuck up his arse," grumbled Mithiel.
"Mithiel!" exclaimed the green haired mermaid in shock.
"Well it's true," continued her sister.
"I have a gift for you as well," interrupted Aeriel sending a stern look at the arguing women before presenting her daughter with a bundle wrapped in cloth. As Nemir pulled away the fabric, she revealed a set of short swords about one and half feet long with a broad, double-edged blades with matching black sheethes. As she examined the weapon, she could see symbols engraved along the metal in flowing Sindarin, Eglossien (Daughter of Ice) and Lachiel (Daughter of Flame). The hilt of each sword contained a gem, one icy blue and one deep red, each one matched with the element named.
"These are beautiful. Thank you Naneth," said Nemir as she gripping them in her hands.
"They were called 'eket' by the Numenoreans. Most were lost during the invasion of the Enchanted Islesi or during the mass relocation, but we were able to salvage a few," explained her mother.
"Last but not least," said Laegwen as she excitedly approached carrying a large bundle of fabric which she placed into Nemir's lap. She stood to unfurl the long garment revealing a hooded cloak that seemed to shift colors as it moved to reflect the surrounding colors of the beach. The unusual inner liner was made from strips of fabric in various shades of blue that had been joined together. Attached to the cloak was a silver shell pin, inlaid with mother of pearl, and a sizable while pearl placed in the center. "It's reversible," explained her aunt, "The blue side can be worn to advertise your skills as an entertainer, but when stealth is needed the reverse side will adjust to your environment and hide you from your enemies."
Nemir was starting to feel slightly overwhelmed by the pile of amazing gifts presented to her and a couple tears escaped her eyes. "I am eternity grateful to have such a wonderful family. I'm going to miss all of you terribly."
"And we shall miss you," said Aeriel as she embraced her daughter, "but we shall stay connected though the distance be great."
Nemir enjoyed the last few minutes on the beach exchanging final farewells before gathering her gifts and walking back home with her mother. Her ship was scheduled to leave at sunrise the next morning so she was attempting to alter her night owl routine, but the additional items meant she needed to adjust the items packed in her bags. She stared at her various belongings spread upon the top of the kitchen table, her entire life reduced down to a collection of items and anything left behind might not be seen for many years.
"My sweet Limelle. How did you grow up so fast?," said her father as he entered the candle lit room.
"I may be older, but I still feel like that uncertain little girl," she turned to face Reavor, "What if I fail?"
The large but gentle man embraced his only daughter, "If I was a weaker man, I would ask you to stay here away from the dangers of the world. I can't promise that you won't face struggles, but I know you will overcome and grow because of them."
Nemir savored the feeling of love and security that blossomed from her center in her father's arms, "Gi melin Ada (I love you father)."
"Lellig le melithon anuir (my daughter I will love you forever)," whispered Reavor as he gave his daughter one last squeeze before releasing her. "Good night dear. Try to get some rest for you have a long journey ahead of you," he placed a kiss on her forehead before exiting the kitchen.
With her father gone, she began placing items into her large leather bag including: a couple pairs of leggings, long tunics, wide leg pants, corset top, blouse, a wrap dress, a long vest, skirt, undergarments, her silver circlet, small bag of coin, and gifts from earlier that day. Her harp would have its own special waterproof bag that kept it better protected. Her task now complete, she climbed her ladder for possibly the last time.
As she laid in her loft, sleep eluded her and she stared up at the thatched roof. This had been her refuge for so long, and she had memorized every joint, knot, and nail. She wished she had appreciated her time here more, but the reality of her leaving didn't become real until that moment. She eventually drifted into a restless sleep and it seemed like only moments passed before her mother was calling for her. The sky was still dark as they exited the cottage, Nemir shifting the stuffed pack and staff strapped to her back as they began the 45 minute walk to the docks. As she reached the top of the hill, she turned to get one last glance at her home before disappearing over the ridge.
"The Crownless King" seemed like a man amongst hobbits the way it towered over the smaller fishing vessels. Nemir knew much larger ships existed, but she couldn't help but be impressed by the two giant masts, draped sails, and deep hull. It was so large it was unable to dock at the village's small dock, so she would have to ride on one of the fishing boats to board. Her father enthusiastically greeted a graying, middle aged man dressed in sailor's garb who was standing on the pier. Nemir didn't recognize him, so she assumed that he was a member of the merchant crew.
"Glamon! You old sea dog!" exclaimed Reavor as he clasped the man's forearm.
"It's good to see you again, old friend," he said and turned toward the woman, "Is this your beautiful wife and lovely daughter I've heard so much about?"
"Aye, I'm trusting you to take care of her. She is more valuable than any of the trash you pedal," her father joked.
Nemir stepped up to man, "It's nice to meat you Mr. Glamon. Are you the captain of the ship?"
"That I am. The old girl is my pride and joy," he said as he gazed lovingly at the boat.
"Thank you for providing her passage on your ship. I know you mainly focus on the transportation of goods and not passengers," said Aeriel.
"Well, my stores are mostly empty and I couldn't deny Reavor. Though I don't know why he would let a lovely girl like you run off to the city," commented Glamon.
"Oh, don't let that smile fool you. She can be ferocious when she wants to be, " boasted her father as he clasped her on the back.
"The biggest mistake a man can make is to underestimate a woman," said her mother with a predatory smile which caused the captain to look uncomfortable for a second, but he soon recovered and returned to his jovial self.
"Wise words, from a wise woman. Well, we must leave with the tide so I'll give you a moment to say goodbyes, but please make it quick." The man walked toward a small boat with a nod.
Nemir turned to face her parents and forced a smile, "I love you both so much. If there is a way, I will write you."
The couple embraced their only child, "Just know that we love you and you are welcome to return at any time," said her father.
"You can always send word through the rivers if you need me for any reason," insisted Aeriel as she stroked her daughter's hair, "Estelion allen (I believe in you)".
Nemir stifled a sniffle as she freed herself from their arms."I best leave while my courage still allows it," she said before turning and walking down to meet Glamon. The captain assisted her into the row boat and helped her settle her luggage onto the floor. She turned to look upon her parents one last time and sent them a wave which they returned. The oars splashed into the water and the boat launched forward out into the bay.
It didn't take long for them to reach the boarding ladder that lead to the deck, "Let me help you with your luggage, darling," offered Glamon, "those rops can be slippery."
"I appreciate the offer, but I think I can manage," said Nemir as she grabbed the lowest step and easily pulled herself up.
"Suit yourself," he said with a shake of his head and followed suit.
After a quick climb, her head surfaced above the railing and she spotted a handful of men bustling about the deck, pulling various ropes and lifting sails. She nimbly leaped onto the deck with Glamon not far behind. "Avast ye bums!" he bellowed to the men, "This is Lady Nemir. Her father is a good friend of mine, and you will treat her with respect if you know what's good for you! Now get back to work, the tide is against us!" He turned back to face her, "If any of them give you any trouble, don't hesitate to find me. They are good men, but a pretty girl can make them lose their wits."
"Understood," she nodded and made a mental note to carry one of her blades with her at all times. "When do you think we shall arrive?"
"Well if we have fair winds, we should arrive to Dol Amroth in two days time," he said as he waved over a shorter, muscled man with long dark hair and eyes, "Ravondir, come meet Nemir. Nemir, this is my 1st mate and I trust him with my life. If you need anything, just ask him."
"It's an honor to to meet you my lady," said Ravondir with a smile and small tilt of his head.
"Please, show her to her room, while I command the helm," ordered the captain.
"Aye, aye sir. Please follow me," and the first mate guided her below deck. The sudden darkness was shocking to her eyes and it took several moments for them to adjust. The hallway was very narrow and entered into an open area that contained a collection of barrels, rope, and crates. As she walked through, she could feel the ship rock beneath her and it caused her to stumble slightly. Though the sea was a second home to her, she had very little experience with sailing.
"Give it a little time, and you'll get your sea legs," he encouraged as they continued to walk through the room till they reached a door. "We don't usually take on passengers, so we had to improvise a bit. It's not fancy, but you'll have some privacy," he opened the door, revealing a small but mostly empty storage room. A hammock had been hung from the rafters, most of the items had been pushed against the walls to create an open area for her belongings, and a small oil lamp had been placed on a box. "I do ask that you be careful with that light, miss. Fire is a dangerous thing on a ship," he said.
"Understood," she said as she carefully shed her bags from her back.
"I'll let you get settled," he gave her a reassuring smile before exiting the room.
It didn't take long for Nemir to examine her lodgings as she could almost touch each wall with her arms outstretched. The lamp gave off very little light so she was grateful she was comfortable with darkness or this whole situation would be very unpleasant. She placed her bags and staff behind some crates in case someone decided to be nosey and search through her things. She carried some items that would raise a couple of questions she didn't want to answer. With the day just beginning, she placed a small knife in her boot, blew out the flame, and exited the room to explore the ship.
The smell of the wood and salt air was calming as she slowly walked around the large storage room, examining the random collection of items. The objects that interested her the most were a couple barrels of wine with elaborate markings in the wood and a crate that held bolts of beautiful fabric. She moved on toward the small hallway and up the stairs toward the deck. Bright sunlight shone down from a cloudless sky causing the waves to glisten as the boat cut through them. Nemir did her best to stay out of the way, and walked around the railing enjoying the breeze and beautiful view. She eventually found her way to the bow at the front of the boat, where she could feel the full force of the wind and the occasional salt water spray. A hug grin spread across her face as she leaned precariously forward, watching the water crash against the boat. A feeling of joy and excitement grew within her, and she knew her adventure had finally begun.
Well be finally got out of the village and almost to the big city! Just a reminder that Boromir's mother was the sister of Prince Imrahil of Dol Amroth...
