Beyond the Fords of Isen

Departure

A hand was placed on her shoulder, making her jump and whirl around. It was Boromir, his expression wasn't tough this time around as he looked at her. The Fellowship was already moving towards the exit with Frodo and Gandalf in front. "Keep up." He quietly said, motioning for her to move. They followed behind the party and soon reached the main gate where a gathering of Elves waited for them.

Elrond and a handful of others walked forward holding cloaks and packs. The Elves draped the cloaks around each member, the same color but different sizes for each. Adalmaer took the green cloak and brought it around her shoulders, tightening the strap that lay across her chest. They were given provisions; food, water, and a pony with bags of necessities.

When it was all said and done, the Fellowship made their way out of the city and down a stoney path that led into the surrounding forest. The path was clear, well kept, and smooth. They stopped near a cliff that overlooked a small, green valley. It didn't last forever though, as soon as they left the borders of Rivendell, the path became winding and the forest denser.

The air was filled with a thick silence. Nothing but the sound of the hooves and boots against the rocks, the jingle of the harness, and the occasional rustling of leaves. They turned south to the Ford of Bruinen, a place of steep banks and fast waters that lay under the control of Lord Elrond. The crossing wasn't as tedious as it was at the Fords of Isen, this time Adalmaer and Boromir were accompanied by more capable people.

Adalmaer fell behind into step with Gimli. The boisterous Dwarf plodded along grumbling about who knows what. It could be about food, rest, or something of that nature. "Aye lassie. What do you call yourself?" He turned his head, looking over to the woman who stood at least five inches taller than he. "Adalmaer, pleasure." She replied and dipped her head.

"Well met lass, the name is Gimli. Son of Gloin." His deep voice boomed, a tone of pride evident. He looked rather comical, this short, stocky man clad in armor and wielding a big axe. She didn't dare laugh when she was in his presence, she didn't know how he would react. Instead she smiled. They passed through a small glen and were greeted by the sight of a small waterfall, the rushing waters cascading into a deep basin.

Aragorn stopped and looked around. "We'll rest here." The group halted, their pack pony snorting and pawing the ground. Samwise, Frodo's other half, took charge of Bill the pony. He tended to him while the others got situated. Adalmaer departed from Gimli and went straight to the basin, kneeling down. The water was so clear she could see her reflection, it was calm and undisturbed.

She cupped her hands together and drew the water to her lips. The water was sweet and fresh, and she couldn't get enough. After quenching her thirst she stood and walked towards Boromir and Aragorn. Adalmaer was nearing the two when she felt a tug on her sleeve. She looked down and met the gaze of Pippin.

"Yes, Master Hobbit?" She questioned, a brow raising upwards. The young Hobbit looked up to her, his eyes bright and curious. "Where are you from?" He asked, a small smile spreading across his lips. Adalmaer didn't expect that question and paused, unsure how to respond. "Rohan." Her reply was curt and to the point.

Pippin wasn't satisfied with the answer and opened his mouth to ask another question when Aragorn walked over, politely interrupting, "I thought as much." He looked at Adalmaer, his expression unreadable. She looked back at him and gave him a nod, "Aragorn." The blonde greeted.

Pippin excused himself and scurried off to where Merry was. Aragorn and Adalmaer stood together, neither of them speaking. She folded her arms and gazed into the wood. "How is King Théoden?" His voice broke the silence, and she looked up to him, a guarded expression on her face. "He is well.." She answered.

He had a suspicion that there was something more, something she wasn't telling. But, he wasn't going to press. Aragorn went silent, his gaze shifting the old wizard nearby. Gandalf was smoking his pipe and conversing with Frodo. Adalamaer looked over to the group as well.