The Price of Pride

34: Crossing Paths

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.