The two elves were once again on the human’s trail. Rûdhchamion sending silent instructions to the wolf-pup, Khelek. Rûdhchamion was pleased that the pup was controlling his curiosity and sometimes, too playful mood. He did not give chase to the woodland animals and left burrows undisturbed. And Anarya was delighted, it seemed, growing very fond of the white wolf-pup.
He sometimes found himself staring at the young elf maiden. As if to keep a picture of her in his minds eye as she walked gracefully. Her hair catching the rays of the morning sun. Her eyes were, as if by the grace of Kementari and Elbereth, had combined both green earth and clear blue sky. He shook himself mentally from his musing.
They continued their route, going southward. The tall dark elf had no doubt that the path the mortals took along the eastern eaves of Mirkwood would lead them near Dol Goldur.
Rûdhchamion stopped and stared up towards the eastern horizon. He spotted what he was looking for and sent a thought towards the flying figure in the sky. He felt Khelek’s curiosity and inquiry.
A friend who may aid us, he sent the thought to the pup.
“A friend?” He heard Anarya ask. He turned towards her, startled. “You… heard me speak to Khelek?”
A small brown falcon suddenly landed on the branch of a nearby tree, catching his attention. It eyed Anarya and the wolf-pup curiously, before turning to him.
How goes, Rûdhchamion of the Wild?
“Well, friend Leasse.” The dark elf asked. “I would ask of news down south, of the Dark Forest. And of the humans ahead.”
A dark Shadow’s presence roams. You will find it less hospitable. Be warned, it is not your dominion, though elf you may be. No free-born creature roam willingly there any longer, but monsters and enemies to your kind. Your humans head steadily there, as some have already done.
“Thank you friend,” Rûdhchamion finally said. “And a bountiful hunting! Please keep an eye out for us.” The falcon gave his acknowledgement and flew away.
He turned to his companions. “Well, let us continue on our way. The mortals it seems may be going straight towards Dol Goldur. Keep alert.”
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