Disclaimers: I don't own any of the characters or settings from Lord of the Rings or Xena the Warrior Princess

Author's Note:

This is a LegoRomance (slow-burn)

ActIII

Frenemies

Chapter 34: Crossing Paths

Gap of Rohan, August 15th 3018 T.A.

The company had traveled for several days, pushing onward with the determination born of necessity. The terrain of Rohan had changed gradually from the green pastures and rolling hills to the more rugged and rocky landscape of the Gap of Rohan. The path was treacherous, with narrow passes and steep cliffs that required all their skill and vigilance to navigate safely.

The first day of their journey through the gap was uneventful, though the tension among the company was palpable. The landscape was harsh, with jagged rocks jutting out from the ground and the wind howling through the narrow passes. Despite the challenges, the group maintained their spirits, knowing that every step brought them closer to their destination.

On the second day, the weather turned against them. Dark clouds gathered overhead, and a cold rain began to fall, making the already difficult path slippery and dangerous. The wind picked up, howling through the gaps and chilling them to the bone. The horses struggled to maintain their footing on the treacherous terrain, and the company had to move slowly, carefully picking their way through the rocks.

Xena rode ahead, her keen eyes scanning the horizon for any signs of danger. Legolas and Elros rode behind her, their elven senses alert to any movement in the shadows. Mírdan and Thalion brought up the rear, ensuring that no one was left behind. The rain made it difficult to see, and the constant sound of water dripping from their cloaks and gear was a constant reminder of the harsh conditions they faced.

As they traveled, they came across a narrow bridge spanning a deep gorge. The bridge was old and rickety, with planks missing and the ropes frayed from years of exposure to the elements. Xena dismounted and carefully tested the bridge, finding it barely stable enough to support their weight. One by one, they led their horses across, holding their breath with every creak and groan of the wood beneath their feet.

Once safely across, they continued their journey, the rain finally beginning to let up. The landscape opened up into a wide valley, the steep cliffs giving way to gentler slopes. They could see the plains of Rohan stretching out before them, a welcome sight after the harshness of the gap. They decided to make camp for the night, taking advantage of the relatively sheltered valley to rest and recover from the day's trials.

That evening, as they sat around the campfire, Xena and Legolas shared a quiet conversation. The firelight cast flickering shadows on their faces, illuminating the weariness in their eyes.

"It seems that the darkness is spreading faster than we anticipated," Xena said, her voice low and thoughtful.

Legolas nodded, his gaze fixed on the fire. "Indeed. The forces of Sauron grow bolder with each passing day. It is not just the orcs and wargs we must contend with, but the very land itself seems to conspire against us."

Xena looked out at the darkened landscape, her expression determined. "We cannot let despair take hold. As long as we continue to fight, there is hope. We must believe that."

Legolas turned his gaze to her, his eyes filled with a mixture of admiration and concern. "You speak true, Xena. It is our duty to protect this land and its people, no matter the cost. But we must also remember to protect ourselves, to ensure that we are able to continue the fight."

Xena smiled faintly, her resolve unwavering. "I will not fall, Legolas. We will see this through to the end."

The following days were filled with more challenges as they made their way through the gap. They encountered a few bands of orcs, remnants of the force that had attacked the village. These skirmishes were brief but intense, with the company fighting with all their might to fend off the attackers. Each battle left them more weary, but also more determined to reach their destination.

As they neared the end of the gap, the landscape began to change once more. The rocky terrain gave way to rolling hills and grassy plains, a welcome sight for the weary travelers. The sky cleared, and the sun shone down upon them, lifting their spirits as they prepared to leave the harshness of the gap behind.

On the final day, they reached the edge of the gap and looked out upon the wide expanse of Rohan before them. The journey through the Gap of Rohan had tested them in ways they had not anticipated.

The company reached the Fords of Isen just as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the landscape. The fords were a strategic crossing, where the Misty Mountains in the north met the White Mountains in the south. It was a place of both beauty and significance, marking the main entrance to the realm of Rohan from Eriador in the west.

After the long journey through the Gap of Rohan, they decided to camp for the night. The Fords of Isen offered a relatively secure location, with the river providing a natural barrier against potential threats. The sound of the rushing water was soothing, and the weary travelers welcomed the chance to rest.

Elros and Thalion set about gathering firewood, while Mírdan prepared a simple meal of lembas bread and dried fruits. Xena took the responsibility of readying the horses, brushing them down and ensuring they had enough to eat. Legolas, as always, remained vigilant, his keen eyes scanning the horizon for any signs of danger.

As night fell, they gathered around the campfire, the warmth of the flames providing much-needed comfort. The moonlight shimmered on the surface of the river Anduin, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Xena, feeling restless, decided to wash up by the riverbank. She took a bar of elvish soap and a towel, intending to freshen up in the cool waters. Legolas, noticing her departure, followed at a distance, wanting to ensure her safety.

Xena knelt by the water's edge, splashing her face and arms with the refreshing river water. She enjoyed the cool sensation on her skin, momentarily lost in her thoughts. Legolas stood nearby, his presence a silent reassurance.

Suddenly, Xena lost her footing on a slippery rock, and with a surprised yelp, she tumbled into the river. The splash echoed through the night, drawing the attention of the others back at the camp. Legolas, reacting quickly, leapt into the water to help her.

Xena emerged from the river, drenched and laughing, her short grey dress clinging to her like a second skin. Legolas, now also soaked, looked both relieved and annoyed. He helped her back to the riverbank, his expression a mix of frustration and amusement.

"You really must be more careful," Legolas said, his voice tinged with exasperation.

Xena grinned, wringing out her wet hair. "I guess I'm just a magnet for trouble."

The commotion had drawn the attention of the rest of the company, who had gathered by the riverbank to see what had happened. Elros, Thalion, and Mírdan couldn't help but laugh at the sight of their drenched companions.

"Looks like our fearless leaders decided to take an impromptu swim," Elros teased, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

Thalion chuckled, "I always knew you two had a special bond, but this is taking it to a whole new level."

Legolas shot them a withering glare, though the corners of his mouth twitched with the hint of a smile. "Very funny. Next time, I'll let Xena handle her own misadventures."

Xena, still laughing, nudged Legolas playfully. "Admit it, you enjoyed the swim."

Mírdan shook his head, a grin on his face. "Well, at least we know you two can handle a little water. Just try to stay out of trouble for the rest of the night, alright?"

As the laughter subsided, the company returned to their campfire, the mood lightened by the unexpected incident. Legolas and Xena dried off as best they could, changing into dry clothes and rejoining the group.

They shared a meal, their conversation filled with good-natured teasing and stories of past adventures. The camaraderie among them was palpable, strengthened by the trials they had faced together. As the night wore on, they settled into a comfortable silence, each lost in their own thoughts.

Legolas glanced at Xena, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. Despite the challenges and the occasional mishaps, he was grateful for her presence. She had become an integral part of their journey, her strength and resilience inspiring them all.

Xena, catching his gaze, returned the smile. The bond between them had grown, forged in the fires of their shared struggles. And as they sat by the riverbank, the moonlight casting a soft glow over the camp, they knew that whatever lay ahead, they would face it together.

At dawn, the first light of the sun barely illuminating the horizon, Xena slipped away from the camp. The previous night had been filled with camaraderie and laughter, but the river's allure called to her once more. She decided to try her hand at fishing, hoping to catch something to supplement their usual diet of lembas bread.

Xena moved quietly along the riverbank, the cool morning air invigorating her senses. She found a spot a little farther from the camp where the water was deeper and the fish seemed more plentiful. She cast her line, enjoying the peaceful solitude.

After a while, she heard the sound of footsteps approaching. She tensed, her hand instinctively moving to the hilt of her sword. Out of the early morning mist emerged a hooded figure, his movements careful and deliberate.

"Good morning," Xena called out cautiously, her eyes narrowing as she assessed the stranger.

The hooded figure paused, his face hidden in the shadows of his cloak. "Morning," he replied, his voice low and rough. "I didn't expect to find anyone else out here."

Xena kept her guard up, her instincts telling her to be wary. "I'm just fishing. What brings you here?"

"I'm a ranger," he said, pulling back his hood to reveal a weathered face with piercing blue eyes. "Heading to Bree. The road can be dangerous, so I prefer to travel alone."

Xena's suspicion deepened. "A ranger, huh? And what business do you have in Bree?"

The ranger frowned, sensing her distrust. "Just passing through. No need for trouble."

Before the situation could escalate, Legolas appeared, his presence almost ghostly in its silence. His keen eyes took in the scene quickly, recognizing the stranger immediately.

"Strider?" Legolas called out, his tone a mix of surprise and relief.

The ranger turned, his eyes widening as he recognized the elf. "Legolas! It's been a long time."

Xena relaxed slightly, her hand leaving the hilt of her sword. She glanced between the two, confusion evident on her face. "You know him?"

Legolas nodded, stepping forward to clasp the ranger's arm in a friendly greeting. "Yes, this is Aragorn, also known as Strider. He's a friend and a trusted ally."

Aragorn looked at Xena, a hint of a smile on his lips. "I apologize for the misunderstanding. It's not every day I meet someone as cautious as you out here."

Xena returned the smile, though it was tinged with embarrassment. "It's alright. I suppose we're all a bit on edge."

Legolas chuckled, the tension dissipating. "Come, join us at our camp, Aragorn. It's been too long since we've shared a meal and stories."

The three of them made their way back to the camp, where Elros, Thalion, and Mírdan were starting to stir. The sight of another ranger piqued their curiosity, but once they learned of his identity, they welcomed him warmly.

As they sat around the campfire, Xena offered Aragorn some of the fish she had caught, which he accepted gratefully. The conversation flowed easily, with Aragorn sharing tales of his travels and the company updating him on their journey.

"So, you are on your way to Rivendell," Aragorn said thoughtfully. "The road ahead is fraught with danger, but if anyone can make it, it's this company."

Xena couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie growing stronger. The presence of Aragorn, a figure of such stature and respect, only solidified their resolve. She glanced at Legolas, who seemed more at ease now, and silently thanked him for intervening earlier.

As the morning light brightened the camp, Xena noticed the ease with which Legolas interacted with Aragorn. It was clear that the bond between them was strong and built on years of trust and shared hardships. She recalled the times Legolas had mentioned Aragorn, particularly when he spoke of the healing paste they had used. Now, seeing them together, she understood the depth of their friendship.

After breakfast, Xena watched as Legolas and Aragorn moved a little aside, their conversation taking on a serious tone. She couldn't hear their words, but the intensity of their exchange was evident. Aragorn's gestures suggested he was reassuring Legolas, his face calm yet earnest.

Legolas's posture was tense, a rare sight for the usually composed elf. He listened intently, occasionally nodding as Aragorn spoke. It was clear they were discussing something of great importance, something that weighed heavily on Legolas.

When the time was right, Legolas took Aragorn even further aside, ensuring their conversation remained private. They walked to the edge of the camp, near the river where the water's gentle flow would mask their words from any eavesdroppers.

"Aragorn," Legolas began, his voice low and steady. "There is something I must tell you. The reason we are heading to Rivendell is not just for counsel. Gollum has escaped."

Aragorn's eyes widened slightly, though he quickly masked his surprise with a nod. "That is troubling news indeed. Gandalf suspected as much, but hearing it confirmed is another matter."

Legolas continued, his voice tinged with frustration. "Thranduil's halls are secure, but Gollum found a way out."

Aragorn placed a reassuring hand on Legolas's shoulder. "Gollum is cunning and driven by a dark force. Even the best of us would find it challenging to contain him."

Legolas sighed, his gaze drifting to the flowing river. "Now, Sauron's forces will be searching for him. We must reach Rivendell quickly and warn Elrond."

Aragorn nodded. "Gandalf has sent me to Bree. But I will travel with you as far as Tharbad. From there, I will take the North-South Road to Bree while you continue to Rivendell."

Legolas looked back at the camp, where the others were packing up their belongings. "Your presence will be a great help, Aragorn. The road ahead is perilous, and your strength and wisdom are always welcome."

Aragorn smiled a hint of amusement in his eyes. "You speak as though I am some ancient sage, Legolas. I am but a man trying to do his part. But rest assured, I will travel with you until Tharbad."

They stood in silence for a moment, the gravity of their mission settling between them. Aragorn clasped Legolas's arm in a warrior's handshake. "Now, let us return to the camp. We have a long journey ahead, and many miles to cover before nightfall."

As they walked back to the camp, Xena observed their return. She could see the resolve in their faces, the mutual respect and understanding that passed between them. It was a bond forged in the fires of countless battles and strengthened by unwavering loyalty.

The camp buzzed with activity as they prepared to set off. The horses were saddled, and the final preparations were made. Xena and Legolas exchanged a brief nod, an unspoken understanding passing between them. They both knew the road ahead would be fraught with danger, but with allies like Aragorn by their side, they felt a renewed sense of hope and determination.

((Upcoming Chapter Thirty - Five))

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