It was night, everyone was resting, some were busy cleaning their weapons and equipment. Other's just simply sat by the fire to talk quietly. Of myself I was walking alongside the Hoarwell river. None would know what was awaiting us, none could foresee the outcome. I was looking at the stars, and I could not help feeling sad. Sad for those eight wardens wounded, one of them risked his life for me, as he threw himself in front of me when the Warg-rider was about to throw his spear at me.
I sat down on a rock and watched the clouds faintly cover the moon. So this was my fate, my last days on Middle Earth would be on the battlefield to protect our lands.
What were we really fighting against? No matter how much we kept our borders clear, they return, often twice as many than the first time. Sometimes it could feel a little meaningless, so much blood spilled for no use. The enemy seemed to be numerous and ever more cunning. The only thing I hold close is hope, the Flower taught me that. There is always hope for those who fight for the right causes. We truly did, these are our lands, and should not be in the hands of all those unnatural creatures.
A large shadow covered the moon mirroring the water. I turned around. It was Istuir, he looked more serious than ever and his black hair was partly covering his face. He looked like a symbol of ill warnings where he was standing tall. I asked him quitely..
"who was he?" Istuir looked at me reading my eyes. "I do not know, Hîril Hallothel, but I can only assume he is from the north. I nodded as I continued; "so Hirgonui was right then? Gundabad?, so what do you think their purpose is?" Istuir looked at me and seemed a little lost in thoughts. "Does it matter Hîril Hallothel? They are our enemy whose only goal is to defile and corrupt. The enemy are more unpredictable and we do not know their next move, suffice it would be to say it will only be to cause more suffering.
"The hidden marking, where is it? Do we know more?" I pointed on the map. Istuir looked at it and shook his head. "it could be a distraction... let us not dwell to much on it for now. We do know where they are assembling again. That is where our focus shall be for now."
I looked down and I hesitated before I asked.. " I do pray for the injured Warden in your banner, he saved my life" He answered "He was impaled by an orc spear, crafted to tear and maim, Cirdamir and the healers will take good care for him"
I felt this incredible sadness inside, he took my hand.. "It is not your fault Hallothel, besides you scared him away with your arrows, so in return you have saved that Wardens life as well"
I looked down trying to cover my fear "Why did the warg-rider look at me as he had seen me before?, why such focus on me?". Istuir said with a determined voice "you are an Ethiriath officer, you would have been a fine ‘scalp’ had he of slain you.." I did not quite believe in him that, especially not when he suddenly looked at the map I was holding. I responded. "Is that so?, well that thing better be afraid, because I know what my next target will be.". Istuir smiled "Do not let that cloud your judgement on the battlefield, that will blur you focus and you may fail when it matters the most. Now, go and rest. I will keep watch".
I stood up and was about to leave, when he held my hand as he wanted me to stay for a moment. I looked at him and he smiled.
He was right as usual, I was not really ready for this assault. I was not quite prepared, I was too angry. I needed to gather my thoughts and think of why I was truly here. We are not here for revenge, but to protect these lands.
(music by this player "emmelin")
