A decision is made regarding how Gwin will reunite with the others, and some unexpected events occur. Could I be more vague? If you want to find out what happens next, read on!

Chapter 61

I was jolted awake by the sounds of Ergothorn moving about the cave. I rubbed my eyes, and noticed he was warming some water over the fire and pulling some foodstuffs out of his pack. It was surprising I had fallen back into reverie, and I was pleased to note no bad dreams had disrupted it. "How long was I asleep?" I rasped, my throat dry.

Ergothorn wandered over and handed me a full waterskin, and I drank from it gratefully. "I am unsure, as you were asleep when I woke." He smiled, "It seems you needed the rest."

I shrugged, "So much for keeping watch." I moved my shoulder around, and noticed it felt somewhat better today. In fact, I felt stronger in general, and my hopes of returning to the others increased.

However, could I walk such a long distance without falling behind?

I set this aside for a moment, and decided to focus on eating and drinking a little more valerian tea. I noticed him observing me, and I wondered what he was thinking. Was he remembering the events of last night? Did he still view me with kindness and respect, or had he accepted how weak I truly was? Had I imagined his attraction to me? I forced myself to listen as he said, "Do you think you would be strong enough to defend yourself, should you come under attack?"

"Hmm," I murmured. "Do you mean on the road, or in general?"

"I was considering how best to go about reuniting you with your friends. Either we could try and walk there together, or I could go and return with them," he explained, looking thoughtful.

"You said it takes half a day on foot?" I asked.

"Half a day at full strength," he reminded me, and I sighed, noting I was definitely not. "While it would take that long for me to get to the camp, I surmise I and the others would return on horses, which would take much less time." He quirked a small smile, but it couldn't hide the flicker of sadness underneath. I knew he had enjoyed having someone to talk to, and things would change once I met up with the others. "If all went well, you would be with your group by late afternoon." The thought of it made my heart lift, and I grinned at the thought of seeing them again, especially Candaith and the twins. "Would that be agreeable?"

"I think it would be the best plan," I said, trying not to sound too excited. "Do you think you will be safe traveling alone?"

He raised an eyebrow at me and smirked, "I have done so many, many times, and recently have traveled to and from your camp on several occasions. I will be fine, do not fear, Lady Gwinthilnel." I wrinkled my nose at his joking and he laughed.

My smile faded as I felt a little worry wiggle its way into my heart. "Please be careful…it is not safe in Enedwaith, as you know, and there are many enemies between here and my camp. As we decided, I will not be there to aid you, should you get into trouble." I sighed. "Not that I would be of much use."

"I think you underestimate your abilities," he countered firmly. "Although I have never seen you fight, I sense you could do some real damage, injured or not." I rolled my eyes, but secretly appreciated the compliment. "Try not to doubt yourself so much." He squeezed my shoulder comfortingly, and handed me some dried fruit.

We took some time to eat, and he gathered the things he would need for today. "Make sure you have some healing supplies," I insisted. "In case you are accosted by an enemy and survive, you will need to be able to take care of your injuries." He opened his bag and showed me some linen bandages, herbs, and even a needle and thread for stitches, and I nodded approvingly. I also convinced him to take more than just his sword. "It is prudent to have an additional dagger on your person, in case you are unable to draw your sword. I usually put it in my boot, but anywhere will work, as long as it is easily accessible." I knew I was fretting, but couldn't help it.

He chuckled a little, "Yes mother," and I frowned, but he added, "Thank you for the advice, I truly do appreciate it. As you know, I am no warrior, and any survival tips are welcome."

Ergothorn stood up and thew his pack over his shoulder, checking to make sure his weapons were in place and that he was ready to go. There was a moment where we both were unsure how to say goodbye, but I decided for the both of us and pulled him into a hug. "Be safe," I whispered, feeling emotional. "Thank you for everything you have done for me, and I am lucky to call you a new friend."

I pulled back and he smiled at me, and tucked some loose hair behind my ear. "Of course, anytime. I am glad we met, despite the circumstances, but I will be back soon. Then you can say goodbye all over again." He winked, and squeezed my shoulder before turning and making his way out of the cave.

Once he was gone, I sighed and sat down next to the fire. I had no belongings to gather, so I kept warm and decided to do some stretches, trying to ignore the loneliness I now felt. It was strange being without Ergothorn in this cave; he had left a few times to gather water and some various things, but I knew he would be gone for many hours.

After a short while, I pulled out his map of Dunland and studied it. If I did continue with the group, it would be helpful to be familiar with the geography. I was sure some of the rangers were familiar with the land, but the more informed I was, the better.

I then picked up one of the books he had in his belongings, and was pleased to note it was poetry, but furrowed my brow at its somewhat rough state. My eyes widened as I realized it was hand-written, and somewhat recently. Could Ergothorn have composed these poems? I spent a couple hours reading it, and the time passed quickly. If he had written them, he was very talented!

I stood up and went to estimate the time, and noticed it was getting closer to sunset. I frowned; it should not have taken this long for Ergothorn to return with the others. Could something have happened to him? I cast my eyes around the cave, and made a decision to go look for him. If he was injured and unable to return, he would need aid. I gathered a few healing supplies he had left behind, along with the short sword and the beautiful dagger. I put out the fire, as no one would be here to tend it. Taking an extra waterskin and braiding my hair back, I carefully made my way out of the cave, taking the time to cover up the entrance well. I noticed some unusual flowers on the ground, but kept moving on, not having the time to study them further.

The area was unfamiliar; I had taken little time to study it while Ergothorn carried me from the river. I noted the sun's position and kept moving west. I looked slightly south and could see Harndirion towering in the distance; I considered going there, but decided just to keep moving. I needed to follow Ergothorn's approximate route in hopes I would come across him. It was hard going; I had tired quickly, and my muscles were sore from lack of much use over the past days. I became nervous as the sun started to sink behind the mountains, but my vision was clear enough, and I felt somewhat comfortable continuing on.

I squinted as I thought I spotted something on the ground, but it was still far away and I could not tell what it was. I had just come to the end of the tree line, as the land would now be wider open, when I felt someone throw me roughly to the ground. My face hit the pine needle covered dirt painfully, and I looked up to see a familiar face, but it was not a welcome one. "G-Gevorch?" I stammered, confused and disoriented. He was the Dunlending who had attempted to kill both Calenglad and I on the riverbank while we had searched for ingredients for Nar's potion. I had hoped to never encounter him again, but luck was not with me today. What was he doing here, so far from the other villages?

The Dunlending grinned ferally at me, with the promise of danger in his eyes. "Elichthi." Before he could say any more, I grabbed the dagger from my boot and tried to plunge it into his chest. Unfortunately, my aim was off, for it ended up in his arm. He released me with a shout of pain, and I tried to get up and run, but he lunged for my legs and tackled me. My injured shoulder slammed into the ground, and I cried out. He restrained me, and I thought it was ironic that he was the one holding my arms behind my back this time. "Now, what is a little Elichthi doing wandering in the woods by herself?" he whispered, and the tone made me shiver in disgust.

"None of your business," I growled.

"Oh, but it is my business," he replied. "These are the lands of my people, not yours."

"Well what are you doing here?" I spat. "Did your village kick you out for bringing a curse upon them?"

His eyes flashed with anger. "I was looking for you; my Brenin wants your head for what you did to us!"

His face was very close to mine, and I took a chance and bashed the back of my head into it. I heard him yell as I likely broke his nose, and it was just enough for me to turn slightly and punch him in the temple, my shoulder screaming in pain. He fell sideways off of me, and I staggered to my feet. He looked to be unconscious. I picked up my dagger and wondered if I should just kill him; he would likely come after me again, or tell his village where I had been and they would pursue me. However, it was never my way to end the life of someone who was unable to defend themselves, evil or not.

I sighed, and limped away as fast as I could, which was admittedly not very fast. I knew if he woke up and was able to walk straight, he might catch up with me. I debated going back to Ergothorn's cave, as it was closer than where I was going, but knew I needed to see if whatever was on the ground was Ergothorn. The thought made my legs move faster as I felt a measure of panic try and overcome me.

I was using all of my willpower to move forward as I drew closer to what was clearly a body, and I fell to my knees and crawled as I saw the familiar blonde hair. He was lying very still, and I tried to ignore what was plainly before me. "Ergothorn?" I said, and shook him. "Ergothorn, wake up!" His skin was pale, and I noticed red and purple marks around his neck, and a large bruise on the side of his head, as if he was hit with something. A bloody dagger was on the ground, and I wondered who's blood it was.

With a trembling hand, I put my fingers on his neck to feel for a pulse, and was unsurprised not to find one. Desperately I attempted a technique I had learned many years ago in the Guard; it was a way to get someone's heart beating again once it had stopped. I could not recall its name, and I was unsure if I was doing it right as I put my hands on his chest and started pumping up and down. "E-Ergothorn," I panted. "Y-you have to," I sucked in a big breath, "Have to wake up now." It hurt my shoulder terribly, but I paid it little mind. I had to save Ergothorn, and I wasn't about to let my injuries stop me.

After what felt like an Age, and as my strength began to run out, Ergothorn's chest started to rise as he breathed. However, when I tried to rouse him, he would not wake. I rubbed his sternum and shook him, but he barely reacted and only shied away for a moment before lying still, the only movement coming from his shallow breaths.

I knew he was gravely injured; what kind of damage had his attacker done? Would he ever wake again? "I am so sorry," I whispered brokenly. "It is my fault." Like it always was a voice whispered in my mind. I looked at the sky and wanted to rage in anger at the Valar. Why did those I cared for end up paying the price? What had they done to deserve it? They met you, that's what they did the voice said again, and I felt tears running down my cheeks as I realized I agreed, but I tried to be quiet as I knew enemies could be nearby. It had seemed like the Valar were looking out for me, but perhaps I was mistaken as I faced yet another tragedy.

I looked around me with blurry eyes, and noticed how exposed I was. I would be easy to spot from far away, and I saw a lone tree nearby. I tried to drag Ergothorn over to it, but he was far too heavy, and my shoulder was aching terribly. I wanted to scream in anger at the injustice of it; leaving his body here for anyone to find felt horribly wrong, but there was nothing I could do. I knew he needed medical attention, but I was not trained well and did not know how to help him. I said a prayer over him and hoped the Valar would save him, stumbled over to the tree, and managed to climb into its branches. The canopy was thick, and it seemed I was well-hidden. My legs felt cramped as I curled into a ball, but I paid it no mind. It was possible the person who accosted Ergothorn was nearby, and I needed to be careful.

I huddled there for several hours, shivering as the temperature dropped and the clouds veiled the stars. I was unsure what to do. I knew I needed to rest before I could attempt to find someone to help, injured as I was. However, Ergothorn could die if I left him unattended for too long.

Clearly, there were enemies about, and the Dunlendings knew about me. I would be easy pickings with my injuries, especially traveling in the open fields like I would need to do to get to my camp. Was Saruman using them to capture me? It would certainly make sense; the Uruks had been tasked with grabbing me and bringing me to him, and as Saruman's allies, some of the Dunlending clans were likely asked to do the same. Gevorch was also out there somewhere, although I hoped he would stay unconscious for a while.

Somehow, I must have fallen asleep, for I could see the very beginnings of dawn start to paint itself across the sky. I realized what had woken me when I noticed with some alarm two Dunlendings standing around Ergothorn's body. They were muttering in their own language, and I could not understand them. I tried to be quiet, but I winced as I noticed my foot knock into one of the branches, and they both looked up at my location sharply. They rapidly walked to the base of it and peered up at me with suspicious eyes. "Come down," a woman commanded, her bow trained on me.

Having no choice, I carefully descended, but found it painful. I must have looked a state, for she raised her eyebrows. The other Dunlending, who was a male, narrowed his eyes at me. I tried to stand tall, but was having trouble keeping weight on my right leg, and leaned into the tree sto maintain my balance.

"Who are you?" the woman asked gruffly.

I decided it would be better to use my real name; if someone friendly overheard it being spoken in one of their villages, they could be alerted to my location. "I am Gwinthilnel," I said firmly, but I noticed it sounded a little weaker than I had hoped.

"Gwinthilnel?" The man said, and it sounded like he was trying to make sense of how to say it. The woman rolled her eyes and replied, "So, what are you doing out here, and next to this body?" She gestured to Ergothorn, and I felt myself beginning to panic; was he still breathing?

"He is a friend. When he did not return to our camp, I went searching for him and found him like this. I did not know what to do, so I hid here," I answered honestly, not having the energy to come up with some elaborate lie.

"Hmm, I see," the woman said. "We will-" She was interrupted as a man stumbled out of the trees, and my eyes widened in alarm as I saw Gevorch. They raised their weapons, unsure if he was friend or foe. "Who are you?" she asked in Dunlendish, and I was able to understand the basic phrase.

There was blood all over Gevorch's face, and a big bruise on his temple from where I had punched him. His arm was sluggishly bleeding from the damage my dagger had done; clearly he had not taken the time to do anything about the wound. He was staggering, and I felt some grim satisfaction that he probably had a concussion. "Gevorch," he said simply, but his words were slurred. "The Elichthi attacked me."

"He attacked me first!" I argued hotly. "Ambushed me in the trees. I barely managed to escape." Gevorch looked furious, and started towards me, but the woman stepped in front of him and stopped his approach. The other man was looking at me suspiciously, likely due to the fact that Gevorch revealed I was an Elf.

"This is a matter which must be settled by the Brenin," the woman said firmly. Gevorch's shoulders tightened, and he looked resigned, while all I felt was fear. If I was brought to a Dunlending settlement, especially an unfriendly one, I would not make it out alive. Noting my alarm, the woman addressed me, "He is fair, and will not rush to judgement because you are Elichthi."

I sighed, knowing I had no choice. "He is injured; will you not help him?" I asked desperately, motioning to Ergothorn. The man looked at Ergothorn with derision and said, "We will not sully our village with a Rohir, dead or not." His disgust made me angry, but I could not afford to lash out if I wanted to survive. I nodded tightly, and the woman tied a rope around both my wrists and Gevorch's so we would not run off. He had the gall to smirk at me, clearly relishing in my suffering and dismay. I had a wild desire to take the rope around my wrists and choke him with it, and wished I had killed him when I had the chance. This thought startled me; I was not known to seek revenge. He deserves it. I pushed the urge away and trudged on.

It looked like I would not be reunited with Candaith or the twins tonight after all, and it made me feel the familiar despair all the more. I knew Ergothorn stood little chance without my help, and I said another, desperate prayer for someone to save him. Please, please let him live! The injustice of his death after all he had done for me filled me with anger, but there was nothing I could do but hope he would somehow live and recover. I was almost overcome with dread at the possibility of his attacker returning to finish him off, and hoped they assumed he was dead.

All I knew was I needed to escape whatever village we were traveling to, or I might never leave it.

Oh dear, looks like trouble abounds for Gwin and Ergothorn. Will they both survive? Things certainly seem awfully grim! Thanks for reading, and leave a review!