The Price of Pride

10: The Darkness of Mirkwood

Prologue

Xena

Chapter 10: The Darkness of Mirkwood

Mirkwood, 3018 T.A.

Xena and Haleth set out from Minas Tirith early in the morning, the first light of dawn casting long shadows across the White City. The journey through the lands of Gondor promised to be both beautiful and treacherous, filled with the varied landscapes and hidden dangers that Middle-earth was known for.

The first leg of their journey took them through the rolling hills and fertile valleys of Gondor. The land was lush and green, dotted with fields of wildflowers that swayed gently in the breeze. Haleth led the way confidently, his keen eyes scanning the horizon for any signs of trouble. Xena followed, her senses alert, taking in the sights and sounds of this new territory.

As they rode, Haleth pointed out various landmarks and shared snippets of Gondor's history. "That hill over there," he said, gesturing to a grassy knoll crowned with a circle of ancient stones, "is said to be the burial site of one of Gondor's greatest kings. It's a place of great reverence."

Xena nodded, her interest piqued. "Gondor is a land rich in history. It's clear the people here are proud of their heritage."

Haleth smiled a hint of pride in his eyes. "We are. Despite the constant threat from the east, we strive to preserve our traditions and protect our lands."

The days passed in a steady rhythm of travel and rest. As the sun dipped below the horizon each evening, Xena and Haleth would set up camp. They would find a sheltered spot, usually near a stream or a grove of trees, where they could build a fire and prepare a simple meal.

Xena was not one for idle chatter, and Haleth seemed to respect her silence. Their conversations were brief and to the point, focused on the practical aspects of their journey. Yet, there was a growing sense of camaraderie between them, forged by the shared experience of travel and the mutual respect they held for each other's skills.

One evening, as they sat by the campfire, Haleth broke the silence. "You've traveled a long way from home, Xena. What drives you to take on such a dangerous quest?"

Xena stared into the flames, her expression thoughtful. "I've seen a lot of darkness in my time, Haleth. I know what it's like to be consumed by it. But I've also seen the light, the strength of people who fight against it. That's what drives me. I can't stand by and do nothing while evil spreads."

Haleth nodded, understanding in his eyes. "It's a noble cause. And a dangerous one. But I believe you have the strength to see it through."

Xena smiled a rare expression that softened her features. "Thank you, Haleth. And what about you? What do you hope to achieve after this journey?"

Haleth's eyes lit up with a mixture of excitement and longing. "I've always dreamed of opening a shop, a place where I can sell goods from all over Middle-earth. With the gold from this quest, I'll finally have the means to do it."

Xena reached into her pouch and handed Haleth a gold coin. "Consider this an advance payment. You've been a valuable guide, and you deserve it."

Haleth took the coin, gratitude etched on his face. "Thank you, Xena. This means a lot to me."

As they traveled further north, the landscape began to change. The fertile valleys of Gondor gave way to rugged hills and dense forests. The air grew cooler, and the shadows deeper. They crossed swift rivers on narrow bridges and navigated rocky paths that wound through the foothills of the Misty Mountains.