Ascend the Dragonborn | Lord of the Rings

Chapter 2 - The Road Ahead

Esteldin

As the sun began to dip toward the horizon, casting a warm golden hue over the Dunedain village, the familiar sounds of daily life filled the air. Children laughed as they played, the scent of smoke from cooking fires mingled with the fragrant wildflowers that adorned the outskirts. The villagers moved about with purpose, their faces reflecting the simple joys of their secluded life.

Just then, the sharp sound of hooves broke the calm, growing louder as a rider upon a white horse appeared on the ridge, silhouetted against the setting sun. Haldor galloped with an eager stride, dust swirling in their wake. Anaynah's hair flowed behind her like a dark river, and her expression—filled with a fierce determination and a hint of exhilaration—captured the attention of those below.

As she descended into the village, she spotted Aragorn standing by the well, speaking with Jahan and the twins. Their serious expressions shifted to surprise and then joy as they recognised her. Anaynah couldn't help but break into a wide smile, her heart swelling with relief and happiness at the sight of familiar faces.

With a playful flick of her reins, she urged Haldor into a swift gallop, the horse leaping gracefully over a low stone wall that bordered the village. The villagers paused, eyes wide, as she landed deftly on the other side, laughter spilling from her lips. Haldor snorted playfully as if sharing in her joy.

"Did you miss me?" Anaynah called, her voice bright with excitement, the weight of her journey momentarily forgotten.

Aragorn stepped forward, his expression shifting from surprise to admiration. "You certainly know how to make an entrance," he said, a warm smile breaking through his usually serious demeanour.

Anaynah dismounted and approached, the camaraderie of their shared mission wrapping around them like a comforting cloak. "The last thing I want is to be boring," she replied with a hint of mischief, her eyes sparkling with stories yet to be told.

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The great hall of the Dunedain village buzzed with the lively chatter of its inhabitants as they gathered for the evening meal. Long wooden tables laden with hearty dishes stretched across the room, the smell of roasted meat and freshly baked bread mingling with the warm, smoky air. The flicker of candlelight cast a cozy glow, illuminating the faces of friends and family sharing stories and laughter.

Anaynah sat among them, her usually bright demeanour clouded with a hint of grumpiness. She poked at her food, her mind replaying the missed opportunity to capture Gollum. Across from her, Aragorn, Jahan, Elladan, and Elrohir exchanged amused glances, aware of her frustration.

Elohir leaned forward, his voice gentle but teasing. "Still sulking about Gollum, sister?"

She shot him a glare, her lips twitching as she clenched her fist in frustration. "I was so close, Elohir. I could have caught him if I had just a bit more time. If you two hadn't distracted me, I would have gone to the Marshes myself."

Jahan chuckled, clapping her on the shoulder. "You can't win them all, Anaynah."

Elladan and Elrohir nodded in agreement, their identical grins mischievous. "Indeed," said Elladan. "You did well, nonetheless."

Aragorn nodded, his expression more serious. "I took Gollum to Mirkwood to be interrogated. He's a pitiful creature, twisted and corrupted by something dark. His eyes are like pale lanterns, always darting around as if he's afraid of his own shadow. And the way he speaks... it's as if he's arguing with himself constantly."

Anaynah's curiosity was piqued despite her lingering disappointment. "Do you think he knows something important? Something that could help us?"

Aragorn sighed, taking a sip from his cup. "It's hard to say. He's been through unimaginable torment, and his mind is fractured. But Gandalf believes he might hold some crucial information about the ring."