Gwin and crew heads to Lhanuch to speak with the Brenin, but not before a disconcerting conversation with Halbarad.

Happy New Year! Here's to 2021 being better than 2020!

Chapter 53

I felt rested when I made my way out of my tent, ready to start the day. When I had awoken, I took some time to meditate. I mused that perhaps this could help me focus on the good thoughts and push away the bad ones. There was much to be done, and I needed to be focused and alert in order to be of some use to Halbarad.

I found it possible the Brenin would want my opinion regarding Anirin's words, but I would rather just be moral support for Halbarad. He was the leader of our group, not me, and it was his decision regarding whether or not we would become further embroiled in the issues of the clans.

I scanned the camp to see if those who had still been in Zudrugund had returned, but furrowed my brow when I did not see Corunir. Spotting Elladan, I asked him about it.

"He decided to stay behind in Zudrugund to do some more investigating," Elladan replied. "He felt there was more to glean from the many books, and I think he hopes to try and learn more of what Frithgeir and Nar know, although with Nar, it may be hopeless." He chuckled, and despite how frustrating Nar's nonsensical speech could be, I felt some fondness for him.

"Well, I hope he has more luck than the rest of us," a voice said, and I saw that Calenglad had joined us. "I had considered staying with him, but he said Halbarad likely wanted as many of us to return as he could get."

"Does Halbarad approve of Corunir's actions?" I asked. He was not thrilled about our journey up the mountain to begin with, believing it was likely a waste of time.

Calenglad shrugged, "He did not order one of us to go fetch him, so I surmise he is at least resigned to it."

As if our conversation summoned him, Halbarad strode purposefully towards us. "Good morning. Gwinthilnel, may I have a word?"

His tone of voice made me uneasy, but I nodded and followed him into his tent.

He heaved a sigh, and I saw his shoulders drop. "Halbarad, what did you want to speak to me about? Is everything all right?" I asked. His body language told me he had something important to say, but did not want to say it.

He gestured towards a stool, and sat beside me. His expression was serious, but worried. My eyebrows rose when he took my hand in his; it was uncharacteristic of him. "Gwinthilnel…I saw what happened yesterday." My stomach filled with dread, and I wondered what he would say next. "It is clear something serious is happening to you, and it is concerning to me." He squeezed my hand and sighed again, before making eye contact with me. "Will you be able to continue with us?"

The first emotion I felt was shame. He must think I am weak, as I was unable to beat back the strange darkness alone. Would this flaw impact their ability to move forward?

Then fear took its place. Was I a danger to the group? Did he worry I would hurt the others?

Finally, anger wiggled its way into my mind. It was not my fault that a curse had possibly been put on me, although this was only a theory. It was unfair to be cast aside because of something out of my control.

Halbarad must have seen all of these emotions flicker across my face, and his expression was one of compassion. "I do not say this because I think you are weak. I know how capable you are, and what strength you possess." I was surprised to see the emotion in his eyes. "I worry for your spirit, and your health. I want you to be safe, and it would break my heart if something happened to you out here in the wilds of Enedwaith. Perhaps you need healing in Imladris?"

It was something that had also crossed my mind. Lord Elrond was likely the most skilled healer on this side of the Sea, and he could potentially help dispel whatever curse or illness I had.

"Halbarad…I understand your concerns, truly," I said softly, breaking eye contact. "I would feel like I was giving up and letting you all down if I left now. I promised myself and the rest of the group that I would see this through."

"Mellon nin, I assure you we would not think you let us down," he replied, just as softly. "We would rather you be well, even if it means you return North."

"I know," I whispered. I thought I would want to cry, but I just felt empty. What was my purpose now? There was, however, one very big reason why I did not want to stay behind.

Candaith.

Could I be parted from him? How would I handle the worry of not knowing if he was safe, or even alive? Or, would he want to go with me, therefore abandoning his errand with the Grey Company? He had mentioned doing so before, when I told him I had considered sneaking off from Zudrugund. I would feel guilty if he chose to do such a thing, and would need to find a way to convince Candaith to stay here.

I was not sure if I could bear it.

My mind was scrambled, and I could not sort through all of my thoughts. I raised my eyes to meet Halbarad's, and wondered if he could see the anxiety I was feeling. "Can I have some time to think on this?"

He nodded, "Of course; it is a big decision to make." He paused. "Do you still wish to ride to Lhanuch today? I would understand if you chose to stay here."

I shook my head and replied, "No, I will go with you. I am not sure how much I can help, but anything I can do to aid you is better than nothing." My voice sounded flat and emotionless. "I will gather my gear, if that is agreeable?"

He nodded, and we both rose. For some reason I felt to need to incline my head in a show of deference, and he looked at me a little quizzically before I turned away and stepped into the sunlight.

I walked quickly to my tent, and donned my weapons and pack before readying my horse. I had seen Candaith across the camp, but purposefully avoided him until I was ready to leave. I didn't want him to know about my conversation with Halbarad, just yet. If I spent too much time in his presence, I was certain he'd pick up on my mood and try to coax out what was troubling me. My anxiety had increased ten-fold, but I didn't have time to sort through things at the moment; I had a job to do.

The twins, however, were more difficult to shake. "Were you going to leave without saying farewell, muinthel?" The twins said in unison, and it made me smile, despite my dark mood.

"No, I was just readying myself to leave, as Halbarad wants to ride soon," I replied, which was technically true.

Elrohir looked skeptical. "I sense there is something you are not saying," he commented, and although I tried to keep my expression pleasant, I knew that it would not fool him or Elladan. They knew me too well.

Instead to unburdening myself like I wished, I replied, "I just have some things on my mind, but it is nothing for you to worry about." Which they would entirely disagree with if they knew what it was.

"Hmm, well, we will not force you to tell us, but we hope you know you can always share your thoughts with us," Elladan said, looking at me with some concern.

"As you are always reminding me," I quipped back, managing a small smile. "Do not worry, I will be back before you know it."

I went to mount, but Elrohir put a hand on my shoulder to forestall me. "Will you not speak with Candaith?" he asked, confused.

I sighed, knowing he was right. Part of me wanted to, of course, but another part didn't want him to see me like this. "He will only worry and want to come with me, and Halbarad would not allow it," I said, trying to sound firm, but even I could tell it was not convincing.

Before I could stop him, Elladan called out, "Candaith! Gwin would like to say goodbye before she leaves!" I sighed in frustration, but pasted a smile on my face as he approached me, and stepped into his embrace before he could look at me clearly.

The twins said "Namarie" before leaving Candaith and I alone. Once I was in his arms, I realized how much I needed to feel the comfort he provided. He quickly kissed me on the side of my neck, and I felt a flicker of that familiar desire. However, my mood snuffed it out quickly, and I pulled back to look into his eyes, which went from warm to worried.

"Gwin? What troubles you?" he asked softly.

"It is nothing," I said quickly. "At least, nothing important."

He looked unconvinced, "I am not sure I believe you, but I will respect your privacy, at least for now."

I sighed in relief, giving him a real smile this time. "Thank you," I said softly, and he took my hands in his, and kissed my palm. It made me shiver in pleasure; and he grinned slyly in response.

"Just reminding you what will be waiting for you when you return," he whispered huskily, and it took all my willpower not to kiss him in front of everyone. I knew the entire camp was aware Candaith and I were romantically involved, but most overt public displays of affection were frowned upon. His expression softened, and he said "I will miss you."

"Candaith, I will only be gone for part of the day; we will return this evening," I assured him. "But I will miss you too." These words only reinforced the argument that leaving to return North might not be the best choice. It certainly wouldn't be the easiest.

I noticed Halbarad, Nona, and Anirin moving towards their own horses, and I embraced Candaith a final time, "Namarie, meleth nin."

"Namarie. Le melin," he replied, giving me another kiss on my neck and a warm smile before stepping away from me. I mounted my horse and waved to the others who were staying behind before turning and following Nona, who had started riding towards Lhanuch.

I hoped things would go smoothly, but only time would tell.

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When we arrived, the guards looked bored, but stood to attention when they noticed us. Nona's presence forestalled any questions, and we went through the gates without too much fuss.

We dismounted, and left our horses in the stables, before making our way to the Brenin's gathering hall. I noticed Suvulch watching us, but Nona completely ignored him. Clearly, they still had some things to work through.

"Who wishes to speak to Glynn Brenin?" a man asked, looking suspicious.

Halbarad stepped forward and replied confidently, "We have come with a messenger from Tur Morva, who has words for the Brenin. It is urgent that we speak with him."

Anirin moved towards the front of the group, and they greeted each other in Dunlendish. After a short conversation, the man agreed to speak with the Brenin to request an audience. "What are your names?"

"Halbarad, Gwinthilnel, Nona, and Anirin," Halbarad answered. Glynn Brenin was familiar with all of us except Anirin, but I was unsure if he would be very pleased to see us. Perhaps the positive message from Lheu Brenin would lighten his mood.

When we entered the gathering hall a short while later, I was surprised to see all of the Brehures had been summoned to listen to our conversation. He must have known the gravity and importance of Anirin's words. We all bowed in respect, and the Brenin inclined his head. "I see there is a message for me from Lheu Brenin of Tur Morva?" he asked, getting straight to the point.

Anirin stepped forward nervously, and relayed the words he had told us. Halbarad mentioned Ergothorn's letter, to explain how we came across Anirin in the first place. I looked around and noticed everyone looking thoughtful, but Guladus seemed suspicious. I remembered that she was the one who had stood up to the Emissary, and made a note to pay close attention to her opinion.

After he was finished, Glynn Brenin gestured to his council, "My Brehures have heard the messenger Anirin's words. They will help me decide what must be done in this matter of Saruman." He then turned to me curiously, and I felt everyone's eyes look in my direction. "Elichthi, you have been helpful in determining truth from lies; perhaps you can gather the opinions of my council and decide if the words of Lheu Brenin can be trusted?"

At this, Anirin looked offended. "I assure you that I speak no lies, Glynn Brenin," he said, trying to keep his growing anger in check. "We wish to join with other clans to fight against Saruman, and we hoped you would feel the same."

Nona hesitantly put a hand on his shoulder, and I noticed him relax a little. After a somewhat awkward moment of silence, the Brenin spoke again, "I would like to believe you, Anirin, for they would be welcome words. However, I must listen to the thoughts of my council, and decide on a course of action." Anirin nodded in reluctant acceptance, and I decided to approach the Brehures individually. Halbarad went to speak with the Brenin, and Nona and Anirin engaged in some quiet conversation. I wondered what they were talking about.

Most curious of what her opinion was, I spoke with Guladus first. "What are your thoughts on this matter?"

She looked skeptical, "Are all Duvodiad so trusting?" When I furrowed my brow in confusion, she continued, "How do we know this 'Ergothorn' is a friend? You know nothing about him beyond what he wishes to tell you in these letters. I say 'he,' but you know not even that! Ergothorn could be a woman, and that could be the least of her deceptions!"

These were thoughts I myself had wondered. Before I could speak, she added gruffly, "It matters not to me that the messenger Anirin was found where Ergothorn said he would be. One truth is nothing." She looked at me with the same stubbornness and pride I had seen in Nona's eyes, and I admired their people for their shrewd discernment.

However, I did not expect all the rest of the Brehures to take the opposite viewpoint. They seemed hopeful, and found comfort in hearing that another clan was willing to stand with them in the fight against Saruman. A few did have the presence of mind to caution us against the other Dunlending tribes. "There are some who have sided with Saruman and cannot be convinced otherwise," Neirin Brehur muttered. "Take care when you pass their dwellings, as they will shoot first and ask questions later…if you are even alive to be asked." I nodded grimly, and he added, "Their leaders are not as strong or as wise as ours, and believing the deceptions of the wizard is easier than standing against him."

I shared the views of the council with the Brenin and Halbarad, and the former contemplated my words before saying, "The words of my council should be heeded and taken into consideration." Halbarad and I waited patiently as he continued to think. After a time, he said, "We will take Anirin's words as truth, but will keep our eyes open for any hint of deception. My council is wise, and I value their views."

Guladus must have overheard our conversation, because she walked quickly to our sides and said, "Do you not share my concerns over Ergothorn? What if they are meant to deceive us?" She looked frustrated, and it made me consider my own opinion. I felt uneasy about Ergothorn as well, but so far, he or she had not led us astray. I hoped we would not have to deal with any secret letters again, but my heart told me that we were not done with this mysterious person.

"Peace, Guladus," Glynn Brenin said. "We will be on our guard. You know I do not trust easily, nor put my faith in things blindly." He then addressed me, "What do you think, Elichthi?"

I wished he would use my name, as the term 'Elichthi' seemed somewhat offensive, but I pushed it aside for now. "I feel troubled by Ergothorn's secretive behaviors, but Anirin seems genuine when he speaks of his Brenin's words." I took a breath. "However, I also think it is crucial that they are not taken at face value. It would be naïve, in my opinion, to blindly trust Lheu Brenin's message. Actions speak louder than words, as they say." I spoke slowly and with as much conviction as I could manage.

Glynn Brenin nodded, and I saw a glimmer of respect for me in his eyes. "Thank you," he said, and then addressed the group as a whole. "My decision has been made. We will accept the words of Lheu Brenin with gladness, but will remain cautious and carefully observant to any signs of deception." Anirin again looked a little upset, but did not comment.

We all filed out, and Halbarad turned to me, looking pleased, "You did well in there, Gwinthilnel. Glynn Brenin seems to respect you."

I shrugged, "I hope so. If it turns out Lheu Brenin is false in his assurances of wanting an alliance with the Uch-luth, it will be very unfortunate."

Halbarad nodded, "Indeed, that would be a poor outcome. We can only pray this will turn out for the best, but I fear even if these two clans fight against Saruman, there are many more who will not. As the council members said, we will need to be very cautious as we travel south."

Both of us looked up, startled, as we heard yelling. I spotted Nona shouting at her father, who looked angry. His hand shot out and grasped her arm firmly, and I instinctively went to aid her, but Halbarad put a restraining hand on my shoulder. I turned to look at him, confused, and he muttered, "It is not our conflict. We must let them work through this."

"If things become more violent, I will step in," I replied firmly. Halbarad nodded reluctantly.

However, I did move a little closer, and could hear Suvulch replying, "You cannot speak to me of this matter! You will obey me, as is your duty!" Nona looked furious, and ripped her arm out of his grasp. Looking around, his gaze then found mine, and he came storming over. Halbarad stepped partially in front of me, fearing Suvulch would attack me, but I stepped around him, unafraid to confront Suvulch. "If he tries anything, I promise I can stop him," I said softly, not taking my eyes of Suvulch.

"You…you have made my daughter believe she is able to defy me, Elichthi," he growled, his face stormy with anger.

I stood firm, looking at him with hard eyes. "Your daughter would never let anyone make her do anything. She is stronger than you think."

He was right in my face, and I put a hand on his chest to make him back up. "You think you are so strong, don't you?" He said harshly. When I did not answer, he added, "Prove it."

I raised an eyebrow, "I do not have to prove anything to you."

Ignoring these words, he replied, "Let us have a contest. Whoever can defeat the greatest number of enemies in one hour will be deemed the strongest." He seemed furious with my calm demeanor, and his voice was shaking with barely suppressed rage.

Sighing impatiently at this ridiculous request, I said, "I will do no such thing. If you wish to take out your anger in battle, I will not be a part of it." At this, I was almost certain he would have punched me if Halbarad had not been standing so close. "If you will excuse me, I have things I must do." I stepped around his furious form and walked over to Nona. I attempted to evaluate her arm but she pulled it away from me. "It is fine," she spat, but I knew she was not angry at me, but rather her father and the whole situation.

"Nona," I said hesitantly. "Do you feel safe here?"

I saw a flicker of uncertainty in her eyes before the stubbornness returned. "I am fine, Gwinthilnel." I was glad at least one Dunlending was using my name, but dismissed this petty thought and waited for Nona to continue, as I got the sense she had more to say. "I will be glad to leave this place when I accompany the rest of you going South."

I looked back to where Halbarad was standing, and noted two other Dunlendings were bodily moving Suvulch away from him. It looked like things had been deteriorating, and I was glad Halbarad was out of danger, however mild the risk. Turning to Nona, I said, "Let us go speak to Halbarad. Perhaps you wish to move into our camp while we are here?"

However, before we could do this, we noticed a commotion at the front gates. Moving swiftly towards them, my eyes widened as I saw Radanir on a horse, and he was arguing with the front guards and waving something in his hand up in the air. Halbarad was close behind me, and stepped forward to speak with him. "Radanir, what brings you here?" he asked quickly.

Radanir glared at the guards, and they reluctantly let him inside the village. "Ergothorn sends another message!" He seemed panicked, and I feared what the letter would say. "There is to be an attack on Zudrugund!"

I let out a gasp, and felt my heart start to beat rapidly. I looked at Halbarad with alarm and said, "Corunir is up there!" The dwarves were there also, but I was more concerned about my ranger friend.

Halbarad looked grim, but I could see a flicker of the panic I was feeling in his eyes. "We must return to camp swiftly and make a plan."

"Will we go to rescue him?" Radanir asked in a rush.

Nona had followed us, and said, "What if it is a trap?" I turned to look at her, and in my anxious state I tried to listen objectively. "What if Ergothorn is luring you up there to be slaughtered by the enemy? You could be ambushed on the road."

This did not help decrease my fear and worry in the slightest, and I looked at Halbarad with wide eyes. "Be that as it may, we still must return to camp, as swiftly as we can. Get to the horses!" Halbarad ordered, and we hastened to obey. Nona thankfully chose to stay behind, but she clasped my shoulder in a warrior's farewell and said, "Good luck Gwinthilnel. May your friends be safe, but do not trust to hope." She looked grim. "It has forsaken these lands."

With this depressing thought, I swung into the saddle and we rode hard for the camp, with me praying the entire way that we would get to Zudrugund before it was too late.

Uh oh, looks like more trouble from Ergothorn! Will the rangers go up to Zudrugund to try and save Corunir and the dwarves…or is it a trap? Will Gwin decide to go back to Imladris, or would it be too difficult to set aside what she views as her duty, and could she leave Candaith behind?

Fun fact for my readers unfamiliar with the game: there is indeed a quest where Suvulch has a contest with you to see who can kill the most orcs in an hour! I wanted to skip it while I played the game, as Gwin did, but it was a 'required quest', so I just rolled my eyes and got on with it. He said he beat me in the count, but I highly doubt it!

I like to throw in quotes from the movies/books, and if you have any favorites you'd like me to try and slip in, let me know in a review or PM!

I hope you enjoyed the chapter! Review/follow/favorite if you have a moment, it means a lot to me!