One Flesh, One Soul. Part I by FellFireFan  

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Into Danger We Ride

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Ladros

380 A.D

 

   The arrival of prosperous lords from afar to the great hall of Boromir drew all in a wave of excitement. With pomp and praise, they came, bearing gifts of silver and gold, jewels and arms, each with hope to win favour in the eyes of the fair Lady Andreth whose impressive presentation in their realms drew many hopeful suitors. Lady Anthel welcomed each with grace, sparing no expense to host a grand tournament and feast that lit the hall with merriment. By day, lords proved their mettle in joust and swordplay, vying for honour in sport. By eve, minstrels wove tales of love and valour to lift and enchant all hearts.

   Yet for Andreth, solace was found alone amid the emerald woods and windswept fells of Dorthonion. On her faithful stallion, she flew as fleet as thought. Her continuous absence and strong spirit left much frustration to her mother. Whose threats to keep her daughter under lock and key was a temptation becoming too great for her to resist. Her rides brought brief respite to tensions within, for lords greatly desired to tame such a heart.

   On one particular morning, Andreth rose very early, clad in a simple rough spun dark blue gown, well-worn, and faded. She resembled a lowly field girl a disguise she greatly favoured and slipped out of a side door in her fathers home. Her long hair draped over her body like a vail of black silk as she made her way to the stables, taking great care to keep her footsteps light and her presence swift.

    She slipped past the guards whose drowsiness could not be more evident in the light snores and heads resting upon the support of their erect spears. She descended the steps leading to the stables. Pushing the wide wooden door open, she quickly retrieved her horse and led it out of its stall. It neighed and snorted excitedly for its run, and Andreth quickly silenced it with a gentle shush.

   Just as she was about to mount, a shadow upon the floor startled her. A tall, handsome man stood in the entrance. His dark wispy hair fluttered in the light morning breeze, and his emerald eyes considered her with a twisted grin.

   "Dear lady, that abominable apparel does not befit a face as fetching as yours," he spoke, his lithe frame leaning against the stable door.

   "My beauty is mine to gift, not for you or any other to claim," she replied firmly. "I bid you take your leave, sir, for I am busy."

   "You think your coyness fools me, maiden? I've proven my strength and worth in the games - my valour has won your hand!" He stepped closer, eyes alight with envy's flame.

   "Others court me with honour, not entitlement. Be warned that patience and respect, not threats, will earn favour here," Andreth said, reigning in her ire.

   "Ha! What care I for respect when fine gold and jewels buy all?" He leered, stepping closer.

   Her anger rose, "I only need to scream and there will be an army of guards thrusting their lances into you before you draw your next and final breath!" She hissed venomously, "let me pass! Or do you wish to test me further?"

    He complied and quickly stepped aside. Her warning heeded, Andreth rode for pastures unseen, galloping fast over grassy plains where the the song of the trees echoed amid sun-dappled leaves. No cage, however gilded, could contain her flame. Hers was the right to love as she deemed fit and no pompous lord nor overbearing mother would make her feel otherwise.

   After a long ride, it earlg afternoon when she reached a vast and beautiful glade dotted with colourful flowers. This was her secret place, secluded from the world. As she went about picking a bouquet of flowers, she fashioned a gift in the hopes of easing Variels' growing anxiety. The gentle rustling of leaves and the sweet fragrance of blossoms filled the air. A serene smile played on her lips as she picked the finest, largest blooms, lost in her peaceful thoughts. Her attention suddenly drew to the distant sound of hooves approaching from the dense forest surrounding the glade.

   "How did they find me here!" She thought to herself, "another search party here to drag me back to the stufling games of waiting lords eager to make a little wife of me! Hah! We shall see who outsmarts who!"

    Andreth swiftly moved to conceal herself behind a towering oak tree, her heart pounding. Peeking through the foliage, she caught a glimpse of the group of horses galloping by, their forms a blur. They passed too quickly for her to discern their riders. Faint voices carried on the wind, teasing her ears, but their words remained unintelligible, though their laughter seemed hearty. She listened intently as they rode a distance away. The voices were certainly male, but they spoke in a tone that seemed different from her menfolk. It was angelic and melodious. Whoever they were, they did not seem in pursuit of her, much to her relief.

    With her heart still racing, Andreth quickly gathered her flower-laden bounty and mounted up. Urging her steed forward, she emerged from the forest's embrace, entering a vast open field that stretched before her. As Andreth carefully descended from the peak of a steep, grassy hill, the same rhythmic thud of hooves echoed behind her. Turning her gaze upward, she caught sight of the three majestic horses galloping along the hill's crest. Her excitement surged as she recognized one rider, bringing up the rear, his flowing mane unmistakable—it was Aegnor.

   "Aegnor!" She cried out with unhinged excitement, vigourously waving her arm.

   His keen ears heard his name upon the wind, and his eyes caught sight of her. With his attention diverted, a rebellious branch inflicted its justice upon him. The branch's crack sent shocks of pain through Aegnor. His arms flew to his injured face. Off-balance, he was flung from his saddle as his loyal grey mare galloped on, unaware of the calamity that had befallen her master.

    Andreth watched in horror. Grass and soil blurred around him as he rolled uncontrollably. Aegnor crashed to a stop at the bottom, limbs splayed.

Andreth felt her heart sink. She dismounted her horse and rushed to Aegnor's motionless form, his body sprawled on the grass. His eyes opened briefly to see her sleek form running toward him, only to quickly shut them again.

    Falling to her knees beside him, she placed a tender hand upon his body, but he was unresponsive. With a swift and graceful movement, she twisted away from him, her attention diverted to the contents of her satchel as her fingers delved into its depths.

    Aegnor's eyes squinted open. He watched her as she rummaged through her possessions, lifting his head. Finally, a small glass jar nested in her fingers as she pulled it out. Aegnor swiftly returned to his feigned unconscious state as her eyes fell upon him again.

    With nimble fingers, she deftly pulled the small cork lid, and it opened with a soft pop. She waved the jar under Aegnor's nose, and the pungent scent quickly exploded into his nostrils. He let out a loud, throaty cough and impulsively slapped her hand away, his face contorted with repulsion and mild annoyance.

    "What was that!?" he yelled, recoiling as he guarded his nostrils. She couldn't help but smile, mischief sparkling in her eyes.

    "Smelling salts!" she chirped, displaying the tiny jar to him. "Do you truly believe I had fallen fool to your pretence? To fall unconscious to a wayward branch, your head is thicker than that, Aegnor!"

    "Lady! I deserved no such penance for that innocent jest! That abomination you wafted beneath my nostrils deems more fit to repel balrogs from their fiery chasms!" He retorted.

    She bubbled into peals of playful giggles. The air seemed to flutter around them as her beautiful smile captured his in a warm glance. Turning her head, she glanced toward the top, and her eyes caught sight of two elven figures observing them from the peak. She could not distinguish their faces, only noting the difference in their hair colours—one with dark locks and the other golden, much like Aegnor's but only brighter.

    "Are those your companions up there?" she asked, waving to them in a plee of their aid.

    He lifted up, leaning back on his elbows. "That is my cousin, Fingon, son of the high king my uncle, the other is my elder brother," he answered.

   "Angrod?" she asked, smiling brightly. Aegnor rose to his feet with a single elegant motion.

   "Angrod is in Angband," He extended his hand to her and helped her to her feet, "that is my eldest brother, Finrod," he added. Andreth paused, her eyes widening,

    "Finrod? The Finrod Felagund!?" Her gaze darted back to the distant figures, who were now riding along the crest of the hill in search of a safe path to descend. "Aegnor...! you only told me you had met the great Finrod, not that you were his own brother!" She cried aloud

    "And I told no lie! We have indeed met Felagund... from the moment I was born," he replied calmly.

    "Aegnor!!"

   She yanked bush fulls of grass and hurled it at him, grunting loudly at him as the confetti of grass blades flickered around them. Aegnor gracefully dodged her every propellent, a look of confusion mixed with faint amusement.

    "Do you not know what a legend he is among my people!? His magnificence alone is unparalleled! I can not be seen by him in these tarnished old rags!" She clasped the skirt of her frock flapping it in stern annoyance, "this is your fault Aegnor! How dare you withhold this vital information from me!"

    His amusement growing more visable, Aegnor took in every detail of her worn out attire. Rough, hardy fabric riddled in small tears that had been remended.

   "Your gown bears no flaw that I can see, for those things which hold alot of memory are more beautiful to the Eldar than the most splendid of gems" he responded gently. His kind eyes regarded her and she blushed.

   Faint hooves upon grass drew them from the tender moment, Finrod Felagund was coming their way. The sun caught behind his head like a crown of light. Makinh his way acrossthe meadow toward them. Suddenly, Andreth lost her last nerve.

   "I must leave now!" She turned and made her abrupt leave. Aegnor grabbed her waiting wrist, insisting that she stay, "Let me go Aegnor! I beg you!!" She pleaded. This tug of war between them battled as Andreth pleaded with Aegnor to release her arm. Only for his grip to tighten with every tug. They were interrupted by the soft snort of a horse. Andreth stilled and immediately pivoted her dark head to behold Felagund, smiling down at her, his captivating grin lighting up his face.

    "Gentle maiden," he uttered, his voice akin to threads of delicate silk, "the grandeur you ascribe to me is nought but a figment woven by enraptured minds. Your grace in our midst is wholeheartedly embraced,"

   Stunned by his appearance before her, his beautiful smile put the sun's brightness to shame. "It is an honour...gracious lord," she stuttered, bowing her head with her eyes cast down to the ground.

   "What is your name, Lady?" he asked, his gaze filled with curiosity and kindness

"I am Andreth of Ladros," she answered, finally meeting his gaze. Her confidence is growing.

    "The daughter of Lord Boromir and Lady Anthel," he replied gently, curiosity sparking in his regal gaze,

    "I am lord! And a good friend of your brother, Aegnor. Please do not hold him accountable for this unfortunate misstep, for it was my impassioned cry that was the cause for his misfortunate fall, I hold the blame entirely," she answered weakly

   Finrod laughed loudly, his eyes dancing with glee. "Maiden, The skill and style my brother adopts while on horseback can only be compared to the likeness of a herd of charging bulls! Falling so ungracefully from the saddle was bound by natural consequence!" He laughed

    Aegnor scoffed, his playful gaze challenging Finrods, "Tis an impressive analogy of my character, Finrod. Just how long have you been awaiting the opportunity to bring it up?"

    Just as he was speaking, Fingon rode toward them, Aegnor's reins clutched in his strong hand. "It appears our damsel in distress has found himself a rescuer, Finrod!" Fingon teased. "I do not think we are needed!"

    Finrod chuckled light-heartedly. As Aegnor endured the light teasing, Andreth could not help but join in. "I would not anger him, lords, I have never known a damsel so quick with a blade," she chuckled

    Hearty laughter bursts from Finrod and Fingon, their melodic voices dancing in the air. Aegnor remained silent, enduring their light hearted jabs with a grumbling acceptance.

    "Your undisputed reputation for quick wit has just been thwarted, Aegnor!" Fingon jested

    He remained silent still, unable to summon a reply. He threw his hands up in a gesture of defeat, his voice melting into a light chuckle.

    "Do you partake in the art of hunting, Lady Andreth?" Finrod asked

    "I do not lord, though the desire to learn burns within me," she replied politely.

    "Then join us! Aegnor is the finest hunter among us, and I am certain he would be delighted to share his esteemed knowledge with you," Finrod suggested with a warm smile.

   Andreth glanced at Aegnor, finding a glint of light in his eyes as their gazes met. Her voice softened, and she delicately asked, "Will you teach me to hunt, Lord Aegnor?" Her soft smile added a touch of enchantment to her request.

    Aegnor stared at her for a lingering moment. Then, releasing a soft chuckle, his lips curled into an anticipating smile. Exhilaration flooded over her as she playfully bit her lower lip, a rush of excitement urging her to run and fetch her steed.

    Beside Fingon, Aegnor mounted his horse, settling into a comfortable position. As he did so, he noticed Fingon's gaze fixed directly upon him. A brief, silent moment of eye contact lingered between the elves, each trying to read the other's thoughts. Finally, Fingon broke the tension.

    "How did you come to know such an impressive maiden, Aegnor? She seems quite fond of you!" Fingon prodded, a flicker of suspicion lacing his rich, resonating voice. Aegnor paused before answering, his expression thoughtful.

   "Her heart is pure, and her feä, soft as morning snow. She is a cherished companion. You above all others can respect that, Fingon," Aegnor replied, unblinking. Finrod was listening intently.

    Shortly after, Andreth returned to them upon her steed with an excited grin stretching across her face. Charmed by her strong spirit, Finrod invited her to ride alongside him. Aegnor took the lead, guiding the way as the four of them ventured into the depths of the forest. Andreth felt elated riding alongside Finrod, her heart filled with exhilaration.

    Despite the challenging terrain filled with ditches and obstacles designed to test her riding skills, Andreth effortlessly overcame each one, proving herself worthy to ride with the elven lords. She kept pace with them, matching their speed and skill.

   As the party suddenly switched direction, Andreth found herself riding in pace with Aegnor, who led the way. He noticed her, her eyes fixed ahead, a wide, toothy grin adorning her face. Her hair flew furiously behind her, the sun catching the rich redness mingled within her ebony locks. At that moment, she appeared more beautiful to Aegnor than any creature he had ever laid his eyes upon.

     Eventually, Aegnor halted the party, and they slowed to a stop. He dismounted and carefully examined the ground. His keen eyes spotted the tracks of a young and strong stag, and he noticed scratches on a nearby tree, measuring their depth to determine the stag's size. After gathering his findings, he mounted his horse once more and shared the information with the group, preparing them for the hunt to come.

    "A prize like that would indeed be a trophy worth taking," Fingon spoke to the group, his voice filled with anticipation.

    "But if there truly is such a stag, we should exercise caution," Andreth chimed in, her voice laced with wisdom. "We may not be the only ones hunting it."

    "Andreth is right." Aegnor nodded, "Our best chance is to flank it, cutting off any potential escape routes and spreading open our line of sight."

    They continued to follow Aegnor's lead until the magnificent creature finally came into view. Its antlers were thick and strong, sitting atop its head like a crown of glory. The stag's coat was rich and dark, exuding a regal aura. It moved through the trees with a majestic grace, appearing almost like a spirit of the forest.

   Andreth couldn't help but gasp at its breath-taking beauty, for she had never seen such a creature before. It was a moment she knew she would cherish forever. Suddenly, with a burst of speed, the stag ran and swiftly disappeared into the depths of the woods, its white tail flicking furiously behind it. Finrod turned to Andreth, a glimmer of opportunity in his eyes.

   "This may be your chance, fair Andreth. Go with Aegnor, while Fingon and I take a different route. Aegnor will know when to advance."

   With those words, they separated each head in a different direction. Andreth joined Aegnor as they embarked on their pursuit of the majestic stag. The trail led them to a nearby bank, and they crossed it together. However, just as Andreth was halfway across, her horse suddenly became startled, whinnying loudly in distress.

   Aegnor, hearing the commotion, swiftly pivoted around to see Andreth desperately trying to calm her agitated steed. Concern filled his voice as he called out to her. But before he could reach her, the horse reared up and forcefully threw her off, causing her to land with a hard splash into the water. Meanwhile, her horse galloped away, leaving her behind.

    Aegnor swiftly dismounted and ran to Andreth's aid as she moaned in pain from the blow.

    "Are you hurt?" he asked, his eyes filled with concern.

    "My leg!" she squeaked.

    She jerked back the skirt of her long wet dress, lifting it high, above her leg. A large, painful slice had cut along the tender flesh of her thigh. Thick red trickles stroked down the soft, smooth curves. Aegnor tensed as he saw the severity of her wound. He called his grey mare over, and she came immediately to his side, standing over them protectively while he rummaged through his possessions.

     Andreth did all she could to stifle her crying as the tears threatened to spill out. The pain and shock were proving to be a test for her. Finally, Aegnor had grasped what he was seeking and knelt beside her again. His black boots imbedded ankle deep in the stream. Their elven made quality protecting his feet from the streams icy kiss.

    Cold, wet, and shivering, she allowed Aegnor to tightly wrap her sleek thigh in a cloth of fine elven silk. Her eyes shifted to his face while he worked. She soaked in his every feature. The stray locks of golden, curled hair wisping around over his eyes, the way his eyes blinked rhythmically as the subtle, unconsciousness nibbling on his plump lip as he focused on her wound intently. She was once again overcome by his heavenly beauty.

    "It will hold, but not for long, now come, put your arm about my neck," he spoke, his voice severing the moment.

    Pulling her arm around him, he clasped her waist and gently lifted her to her feet. She moaned in pain, her body protesting. Her teeth chittered as her clothes soaked up the icy stream. With grace and tenderness, he lifted her effortlessly upon his mare as if she were made of fine glass.

    She groaned as she battled to keep herself from crying as she slowly dragged her body upon the saddle. Settling in a side saddle, she released a soft moan as she gave him a tearful smile. A gaze lingered between them, silent yet filled with words. Aegnor stilled completely, his eyes fixed upon her, and she graciously wiped a tear away. Aegnor then raised himself up, swinging his long, shapely leg over the mare's neck, settling in front of her.

   "Let's find a place that's quiet. Put you arms around me," his buttery voice echoed smoothly.

   A silent moment of hesitation followed. The soothing song of the forest birds and gentle river trickled delicately that amplified the silence as slowly, her hands slid around the sleek straight surface of his narrow waist, her hands meeting effortlessly at the front. Through the toughened material of his padded tunic, a strong, solid stomach of the elf welcomed her embrace. She released a stifled trembling breath as she clung to him.

   "Oh, Aegnor," she relented softly. "My clumsiness has dashed your hopes of claiming your magnificent stag. Now, a duty of care has been thrust upon you," she laughed sadly. Aegnor inclined his head solemnly.

   "I am thankful for your clumsiness," he smiled softly. "It has granted me the opportunity to spend a moment alone with you," his gaze caught hers in that moment. Andreth tensed and broke away, her eyes dropping to the floor as her supple cheeks flushed a deep crimson red. "We shall meet up with my kin at our designated rendezvous place, after I have properly treated your wound." His slight, teasing smirk caused her to fluster and she blushed even more. Utterly undone by his intense focus on her. 

    With that, a soft smack of his lips urged his mare onward into a slow walk. Her steps were so gentle that it did not cause Andreth any further discomfort. Content by his side, Andreth allowed herself to be taken away, disappearing into the thick woodland with him amidst the shifting shadows of the dancing leaves. The slow ride through the spacious flat woodlands where leaves rustled beneath the steady, rhythmic clops of soft hooves brought Andreth back in time to a moment just like this.

 

    In an attempt to bring Andreth to a safe spot on higher ground, Aegnor walked along a path that ascended a mountain side. Loose, soft dirt crumbled like soft clay beneath the horse's hooves, but Aegnor handled its challenging terrain with undisputed ease. Hidden from danger, Aegnor, attune to the huffs and silent groans from Andreth, sought to distract her from her pain.

 

   "Tell me, what is life like for you at home, among your family," his voice lifted her from her troubled thoughts.

   "My days are spent caring for the children orphaned by war. As a noble lady of the house, it is my duty to take on the burden of motherhood to the motherless. It has come to be my greatest love,"

    "There is no doubt in your ability to care for them well. How are they, the children? I arrived in Ladros upon a time to find your entire house gone." He replied

   "It must have been at the time of my presentation to the lords. It is a custom among my kind. When the eldest daughter of a chieftain clan comes of age, she is paraded from land to land to let it be known that she is eligible to be wed."

   "What a positively ghastly experience," Aegnor shuddered

   "And it is!" She cried "being paraded around from kingdom to kingdom, all draped in flowers and bows! Come and buy your prized cow!" She grumbled. Aegnor smooth voice melted into buttery laughter.

    "Now, they come in their hordes, eligable lords competing to claim my hand! It is embarrassing to witness!" A comfortable pause followed before she added, "I escape when I can and oft take long rides. That is why I was in the meadow, picking wildflowers, drawing out the days for as long as I can. Yet, the guards always seem to find me, and drag me back to that pretentious, insufferable lot!"

    "Ah, is that what you were doing when we encountered you! Hiding?!" He laughed.

    "No!... yes..." she sighed concedingly, "I did not discern it was you riding through the trees. I am truly grateful to be in your company once again Aegnor,"

   Aegnor said nothing. The silence between them heavy, yet comfortable. Unwilling to let the moment pass, Andreth seized the opportunity to learn more about her special friend in friendly conversation.

    "You must travel these lands often. The road between Dorthonion and Angband are perilous! Even more so now with the rising threat of darkness ever growing." she picked up once again. 

   "Angrod and I have spent many years traveling this land together, lady. On one such night, as a tempestuous storm siezed overhead, we were drenched from its fury and saught shelter beneath a large tree atop a vast cliff," he smiled as he told her the story, fond memories creeping back into his mind.

    "Stranded there until the storm passed, we depleted our wine supply and drank to our hearts desire until we surrendered to total unconsciousness. I awoke soon after to find myself staring into the maws of a famished pack of wolves, eager to taste my flesh," 

   "Goodness!" She gasped sharply, her tone laced with concern, "And you escaped unscathed?!" 

   "I seized my brothers still form and threw his body over the edge, jumping myself. We plunged into the river below and were swept by its tide for leagues, when we at last found purchase on the opposite bank and Angrod had only one pressing question for me."

    "What did he say?" She asked, her smile creeping.

    "Nai quessë na?" he smirked.

    "What does that mean?"

    'Where is the wine?' 

   She laughed, her mirth releasing into the wind. "I am surprised at you, Aegnor!" She chirped  "I did not perceive this taste for the alcoholic draught in you. I thought elves were restrained in all things, do you drink often?" She asked, her bright curiousity now fully sparked.

    There was a long pause, too long to be considered comfortable. Finally his reply came rather quiet and with a feigned calm. "Only when the circumstances permit me Andreth... though, they are few and sparing. The horrors of war are oft a costly tax upon the mind... I drink to forget many things,"

   Another lingering pause followed, pregnant with weight. 

    "I understand, it cannot be an easy task forever fighting the haunting shadows of Angband and whatever horrors lie beneath the foul stench of its hidden chasms. One could be forgiven for indulging in such fleeting pleasures on occasion," Andreth replied gently and with understanding. ["I never perceived elves to be so reckless... always they are so fair and rigid, he is unlike any elf I have known!"] Her thoughts rang in her head as she clung to his back. His solid frame, an anchor for her. ["What other secrets does he hide beneath?"]

   Her wandering thoughts returned as she felt the horse they were seated upon come to a measured halt upon a narrow ridge, that seemed to get even narrower. The searing pain in her leg returned, reminding her of her vulnerable predicament. As Aegnor assessed to road forward, Andreth drew a quivering breath, her lips trembling.

"Aegnor... may I ask you a personal question?" She breathed

   Her words drew his attention and he swiveled around, his head twisting over his shoulder as his stern, but curious eyes regarded her scrupulously. He awaited her question

   "Is there... someone who waits for you in Valinor? Perhaps someone you left behind before you embarked on your journey to this land?" She asked, her nerves palpable. The long drawn silence between them could have deafened the very clouds.

   "Someone?" He asked slowly, unsure of her question

   "It is said that Finrod Felugund had left behind an elf maiden more beautiful than starlight. A beloved betrothed who waits for his return," She replied quietly, her dark eyes finally meeting his. "Is there also someone... a maiden... who waits for-"

The sudden jerks of Aegnor's panic stricken mare stopped Andreth mid sentance. Aegnor immediately worked to sooth his war horse yet not even the buttery coos of Aegnor's elvish voice could sooth her. Andreths grip around him tightened. The mare reared onto her hind legs as loud snorts and whines burst from her long, muscular throat. Desperate to gain some measure of control of his beast on a tight ledge upon a cliff face, Aegnor grabbed its studded head gear. Just then, rocks crumbled beneath her hooves, taking the rear end of the animal with it.

    Their bodies pummelled into rocks and broken sticks as they tumbled down the steep mountainside. The thunderous thudding as the body of Aegnor's mare came crashing ominously behind, narrowly missing them. They became separated in the chaos. Each fell uncontrollably in different directions. The fading of Andreths loud screams echoed in his ears as Aegnor tumbled furiously, leaves and roots upturned and hurled around him as he collided with branches. His body finally came to a sudden crashing halt against an unyielding tree. After a moment of ominous silence, he finally stirred.

"Mmmh," he moaned softly as intense pain gripped his body. "Ooh," he quivered, slowly rising up.

His hair was tangled with leaves, dirt, and twigs. A cut above his eyebrow trickled a flow of red blood from his brow. He opened his eyes. His vision was a blur as he looked around frantically. His bright, messy hair flicked wildly around his body.

"Andreth?" Aegnor wheezed.

The wind hissing in the tall trees was his only answer. Panting, he rose to his feet. He cradled his abdomen as the impact of the fall seized him, as though his body had been pummelled by a thousand hammers all at once. His expression twisted with an agonising grimace.

He called out her name, louder. Still, there was no reply. Panic gripped his heart. He leapt into a sprint, dashing through the thick woods, ignoring the protests of his battered body to stop.

Aegnor dashed through the trees aimlessly. His lips mumbling in frantic whispers as he prayed, beseeching the Valar to guide his footsteps toward her. As the frantic search for her drew on. He cried out to her one last time. As loud as his lungs would allow. His powerful voice bellowed into the surrounding trees, rattling the air. Still silence followed like a ghost's haunting song. Yet again, there was no reply. Distraught, he slumped ungracefully against a tree. His long, strong legs unfurling in front of him. He sought a moments rest for his wounds.

   Groaning softly, his jaw clenching as his body punished him. He panted heavily through the pain and the devastating reality that she was lost to him. The silence seemed more deafening to him now than ever before. Slowly, he rose again, wincing loudly.

In a crestfallen daze, Aegnor glided through the trees of the silent and lonely forest, his heart sunk deep with sorrow.

    He knew not where he was, nor did he care. With each step, a painful reminder of the void that her absence had left in him. As he was walking, two strange men suddenly appeared from the distance in front of him. Aegnor had been so distracted by his thoughts that he had not paid them any notice until this moment.

"You there!" one man yelled.

Aegnor abruptly halted, his gaze fixated on the men standing before him. Agitation etched dark lines on his fair face, while his narrowed eyes betrayed a mix of confusion and suspicion. The man's words hung in the air, waiting for a response.

"You the one making those noises? We came to see if you were hurt," one of them inquired. Aegnor remained silent, "Would you like some water?" The other continued, holding out a waterskin to him. Aegnor did not even glance at the offering but kept his stern eyes upon them and his hand firmly on his sheathed blade. His foot placed behind the other in a defensive pose.

"Come on, elf, take a drink, we dun mean no harm," he continued, taking a step closer. Aegnor tensed immediately, his hands gripping tightly around the handle of his weapon.

"We can see you do not wish to be troubled. Is there anything we can assist with?" The scruffy man asked. His companion nodded agreeingly.

"Step out of the shadows!" Aegnor ordered. They obeyed his command and stepped closer into the ray of light filtering through the trees. "I have seen your faces before!" Aegnor yelled, his deep voice bellowing with authority. Suddenly, the flickering of metal erupted from their sides as the men withdrew their weapons and launched at him.

    Aegnor held back until the very last moment. He swiftly drew his blade, and with a devastating, precise strike, he decapitated both of them. Devoid of a head, their bodies fell like a sack of hay before him. One severed head, he vented his anger at with a forceful kick from his boot. Launching it high into the air.

   He stilled immediately, his eyes wide with seething rage and high alert as ominous sounded a mocking, sinister tune surrounded him. With an elegant swivel of his sharp blade, he flipped his weapon in a reverse grip, raising it level with his eyes. His body tensing like a coiled viper. Ready to strike.

   Finally, three large, burly men slowly emerged from the trees and surrounded the elf. Aegnor stood in the centre of them, his eyes focused and his gaze calm and terrifying. The whistling eventually stopped, and a terrifying silence followed.     A fourth man soon stepped out from the gloomy lurk of the dense trees. One who held in front of him a gift for the elf. Once Aegnor saw it, his eyes grew wide, and he lowered his knife.

"No..," He whispered.

Aegnor's eyes widened, his face marred by horror as Andreth was forcibly brought before him, covered in scratches and cuts from her fall. Her delicate figure was held in a vice-tight grip, a large, dirty hand wrapped ominously around her throat. Behind her stood the tall, imposing man, his sinewy frame pressed tightly against her back, a wild glint in his eyes and sweat rolling down his furrowed brow. His malevolent gaze pierced through Aegnor, his unkempt sandy red hair falling haphazardly over his dark, sinister eyes. He had returned, a figure that personified everything Aegnor abhorred in the world.

"You!" Aegnor growled.

His contempt boiling over, he made no effort to hide his disgust for them. Shielding his nose while the stench of these fowl beings assaulted his nostrils.

   The smell of sweat, stale urine, and shame. A surge of unyielding rage coursed through him as he witnessed Hagrath, his fowl, dirty hands upon Andreth. He glared at Hagrath, his face twisted into the manifestation of sheer fury.

"The knife!" Hagrath barked, his eyes wide and crazed, his venomous voice dripping with malice.

   Aegnor's chest rose and fell in heavy, laboured breaths as his piercing gaze remained fixed upon the object of his seething rage. His steps grew restless, pacing back and forth in a frenzied display of agitation.

"I have not met a single soul who has dared cross the line," he snarled fiercely, his lip curling in wrath. "But you... you have lost your mind!" Aegnor snarled

"Hand it over! Or I snap her neck!" Hagrath snarled, his words a venomous threat.

With a loud sigh of rage, Aegnor hurled his precious knife, blade down into the ground, the blade embedding itself vertically in the soil.

"Now, I will kill you!" Aegnor hissed. His low guttural growl laced with venom.

"Take them all, I want everything he's got!" Hagrath yelled to his men. None stepped forward for Aegnor's imposing size, and confidence greatly intimidated them. Andreth's tearful eyes locked with Aegnor's. With only an incline of his head, he asked Andreth if she was alright. His message was met with a brisk nod and a tear falling from her eye.

"Baryn!" Called Hagrath, turning to a much younger man in his gang."Search his body for more, take all his weapons! Move it!" Hagrath barked.

   The dirty, dark-haired man stiffened and released a tense sigh before slowly approaching Aegnor. The look in Aegnor's eyes as he came held the furious glare of a thousand demons waiting to pounce upon their pray. The young man trembled violently, trying not to show his fear.

  Feigning confidence, he reached out a shaking hand toward Aegnor's lower body in an attempt to unclasp the sword belt that wrapped around his hips. Aegnor stilled as he approached. His outstretched hand came within mere inches of his body. When suddenly, Aegnor animated with ignited fury, the side of his fist collided forcefully with the man's face. The sudden bone breaking strike sent the man hurling to the ground with a sharp guttural howl of agony and surprise.

"Woooo! He's got FIRE! " Hagrath squealed with intense excitement, relishing in the sight of Aegnor's aggression. "Think before you act elf! Is your pride really worth more than the precious life of this beautiful girl?" Hagrath screeched, gesturing to Andreth as his grip tightened around her neck.

    She shook her head, her tearful eyes wide with alarm. She pleaded with Aegnor not to comply with Hagrath's demands, for he was known for his tricks. Aegnor, however, was out of options.

He began slowly unbuckling his studded belt that held another sword. He unclasped the weaponry, adorning his formidable figure. The metal studs on his sword belt and upper harness shimmered in the dim light, concealing twin blades and compartments filled with throwing knives. The tense atmosphere was punctuated by the resounding clank of metal hitting the ground as Aegnor discarded his arsenal, one weapon after another until they lay in a pile around his feet

   The men watched with a mix of anticipation and unease, their eyes locked on Aegnor's every move. Nervously, Baryn approached, his hands trembling as he cautiously gathered the discarded items strewn about Aegnor's feet.

   With every movement he made, he made an effort to keep a cautious distance, unwilling to get too close. As Baryn reached for the last blade, his fingers hovering mere inches over it, Aegnor's boot swung out, kicking the weapon further away. The act jolted Baryn into a moment of unexpressed panic. His heart thundering like a loud drum in his chest Aegnor's actions seemed to taunt him, daring him to come closer.

   With a steely glare, Aegnor stared at the shaking man as he slithered across the elf's leg, reaching for the blade that he had kicked away. Just as his fingers curled loosely around the discarded blade, Aegnor's foot slammed firmly on it, trapping his fingers beneath it.

The weight of his glare crushed upon the terrified man, the unspoken and unwanted challenge hanging ominously in the air, filled with tension and uncertainty. Then, after a lingering tense pause, too long for comfort, Aegnor lifted his foot, releasing the blade from his hold. Baryn wasted no time, picking up the blade as he darted back into formation, sweating profusely.

"Now here is a riddle. Why would such a skilled fighter need so many blades?" Hagrath jeered

Aegnor's response dripped with disdain as he scoffed softly, almost offended by the question. "You think I need them!?"

  He took a deliberate step forward, causing Hagrath to instinctively retreat, tightening his hold on Andreth's throat, his mocking grin dropping into a tense scowl. The air grew heavy. Aegnor's imposing presence loomed, his piercing gaze daring anyone to challenge him.

"I found her lying in the dirt, all alone. It took everything I had to resist that beautiful, soft body just to see the look on your face," He jeered

"Just let her go!" Aegnor replied, unwilling to entertain this degrading conversation any further.

"Nah, you see, now we got a problem, I'm missing some people, my two brothers, or at least they were my brothers until you took their heads! But her...she's worth thirty men! What kind of fool would I be to throw away a moment of sheer pleasure with that!" He hissed

"She's wounded! She's bleeding! She requires urgent medical attention!" Aegnor yelled

"Is she now!? Just what have you two be doin' uh?" He hissed, his hot, moist breath melding into her crawling skin.

"Snake!" She roared, her rage seething.

"Do you truly believe I am incapable of vanquishing every last one of you!?" Aegnor directed to the men surrounding him. His voice resonated with raw power, his open arms beckoning them forward. "I invite anyone to strike the first blow!"

Silence engulfed them as the group hesitated, their resolve faltering in the face of Aegnor's unwavering confidence. None among them dared to make a move.

"You have not an idea of the things I am capable of!" If you wish to run, then do so, But you..!" He pointed at Hagrath, his fiery glare locked with his. "Death is a mercy I will not grant you!"

   A sinister grin etched its way across his face. Hagrath, his eyes locked on Aegnor, bent his neck and slid his tongue along the graceful curve of Andreth's delicate, ivory neck, eliciting a piercing scream of revulsion and disgust from her. At that moment, Aegnor's composer shattered.

   A hidden blade sprung out from a contraption in his bracers. He launched himself at Hagrath. A quick footed assailant swung the heavy hilt of his sword straight into Aegnor's head with merciless force. The blow knocked the elf hard to the ground in one fell swoop, the world blurred into darkness as Aegnor surrendered to unconsciousness, his final act of defiance thwarted.