Aria the Black (Book 2 of the Daughters of Durin Trilogy)

Chapter 32: Action

Aria and the trio walked slowly down the hill towards the sunset, away from her family that she had left moments ago. They said nothing, for the sadness festering in their hearts was too much to bear on it's own, let alone to make conversation. Hand in hand with Gimli, she dropped it in blatant shock as she realized they had arrived at their destination. The forest's edge awaited her, and far too close for her liking. It seemed as if she had said goodbye to the others only moments ago- and there was no more time to spare with them.

Turning to Legolas, she enveloped him in a soft hug, the Elf smiling in return. Despite their height difference, the embrace was not awkward or difficult for them at all. Their friendship was too strong for such a silly reason to impede that. Determination rang strong through both of their beings; perhaps that is why they became such close companions.

"I have cherished your friendship every day as I traveled with the Fellowship, Legolas." She truthfully admitted. "I will miss our similar strategizing and small adventures. After all, only those with Elven heritage like us can share such a bond."

Legolas laughed merrily at her jab to the others among them. True to form, Aragorn gave a small snort in response and rolled his eyes. Gimli's similar stubbornness also shone through, causing him to huff and cross his arms as he muttered to himself. Aria gave them a small smile, her chest still shaking as her laughter died down.

"I am forever glad we made amends, Legolas. If there is one thing I beseech of you, it is to do the same with my mother and father. To whatever extent, it will be much appreciated. This feud needs to have a proper burial."

"Then consider it done. I too wish for this hatred to die. We are in need of more friends than foes at this hour." He agreed, continuing on. "I am equally glad to have shared in each of those adventures with you. I am forever grateful that you were such a loyal and worthy companion of mine. We will miss you every day, Aria."

She smiled at his kind words, pulling him to her one last time before dropping his hands and moving to Gimli. All they needed to do was embrace and chuckle, grins upon both of the dwarf's faces. Their hug seemed to symbolize all of the adventures they had shared in and out of Erebor, seeing as remembrance was evident on their faces. She left a hand on his shoulder as she sighed. "I'll miss you, brother."

"And I you, sister." They has always considered each other as such because of how much time they spent together as kids. It was only fitting that he call her this one last time, before he parted with his honorary sibling for good.

Finally, she moved to Aragorn, leaving the dwarf with tears streaming down his face. Looking down at her with a small grin, his eyes were not as sad as the others' were. Instead, they were filled with hope- hope that she would be successful, and that Sauron would finally be vanquished for good. She appreciated this more than anything; his confidence was what reinstated her very own in herself.

"You won't fail us. I am sure of it."

She flung herself onto his taller frame, tears slipping out of her eyes and her stoic demeanor falling. She knew he would look after the others. Aragorn was one of the steadiest forces in Aria's life. She knew he would never give up on her.

"Thank you. Thank you for everything. I don't know where I'd be without you."

"Of course. You needn't worry, Aria. I will always stand beside you, as will Legolas, Gimli, your mother and father, and practically anyone on that hill today. Never fear the darkness and never doubt yourself, Aria. You are stronger than him. You will win."

"Then I shall not fear, nor doubt. I never would have needed to, not with you three fighting against him. Goodbye."

Then she walked away, leaving Aragorn with hope, Legolas with sadness, and Gimli with tears as bountiful as the sea. He latched onto Legolas' leg and sobbed into his hip as she entered the forest. She turned back once more, giving them a small wave and a smile with her light blue eyes. They returned it happily, reciprocating her motions. The last trace of Aria left as she swiftly leapt into the brush, her black hair whipping in the wind.