Part 7
Eowyn awoke, warm and comfortable but alone, in her bedroll.
On the other side of the rock shelter, Sighard was snoring
loudly. Eowyn closed her eyes and, concentrating, searched for
Legolas, and immediately heard his voicequiet but firmcoming
from somewhere overhead.
...perhaps some remnant of Saurons army,
he was saying, still lurking in the Mountains of Mordor.
Then why have we not heard of them before?
They have been lying low, Legolas replied. But
now they have a needa need so pressing, it has forced
them to break cover.
And take Ayleth, said Haldir, bitterly.
Eowyn could picture the expression of gentle sympathy on Legolas
face as he tried to reassure his friend. Whatever they
want from her will keep her safe, Haldir; at least for now.
She knows that you will come after her, and she is brave and
clevershe will bargain for time.
Yrch!
No, said Legolas, sadly, men. Men
corrupted by the promise of power.
...
Eowyn pulled the golden ring from inside her jerkin and, holding
it in her palm, admired the way it glowed, warm and bright,
in the cool morning light. It was too large for her, even for
her thumb, but it was beautiful, and she was glad that she had
found it.
She picked it up in her fingers, and examined the heraldic
device engraved in its bezel.
Something about the design looked familiar, and she frowned,
trying to remember, but she could not recall where she had seen,
or even heard of, the intricately-wrought emblem of a heart
pierced by a broadsword.
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