Adult-FanFiction.org : Lord of the Rings

Path of Honor	By : IdrilsSecret Category: +Third Age > Slash - Male/Male Views: 1995 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Lord of the Rings, nor the characters from it. I make no money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 1
- 2
- 3
Chapter Two

The day started out hectic. There were orders to be filled, and papers to be signed. I few of my men were involved in a scuffle with soldiers from the Eastern Guard. It was nothing major, just a few scrapes and a bruised eye, which belonged to the ellon of the other guard, not mine. I couldn’t help smiling at that. My men were well prepared and itching to go to the borders. When soldiers had time on their hands, and no enemies to fight, they tended to challenge each other. It was allowed, as long as it didn’t become a problem. There was just too much tension in the air, and I wondered if I was to blame. I was very tense on the inside, and I hoped it didn’t show through to my troops. They were still getting to know their new Captain, and I was still getting used to the idea of commanding the same men who considered me their equal not but a few months ago. We were still in that discovery stage, not unlike two people who meet each other for the first time. And just like a couple, a new Captain and his troops must go through a sort of courtship when they earn each other’s trust. That wouldn’t truly happen until we were on the battle ground, and that’s where I was at my best. I knew how to direct an army, how to send them forth into battle in a way that we would have the advantage over our enemy. I’d been raised for this. I was confident during these times. It was the down time that made me nervous.
I was always aware of my personal life, and hoped no one would see through my disguise. It was much easier as a soldier. I didn’t have an entire group of men watching and waiting for my word. Would they sense my differences? Would they try to challenge me? During my self-doubt I would think of my brothers. If anyone could see me for who I really was, they would, and so far they’d never questioned me.
Today I would officially meet my troops, minus the new recruits. The Choosing wouldn’t occur for another month yet. Plenty of time to organize my men before the new additions joined the ranks. The good thing about today was that it left little time for me to think about Túron and our meeting tonight. I couldn’t afford the distraction right now, and at times it was difficult to think. I kept seeing that fair skin and those full red lips, the way a gentle smile made his blue eyes sparkle.
“Are you ready to meet your men?” Haldir said from the door to my office. I’d been so heavily immersed in my daydream that I hadn’t heard him enter.
“As ready as I’ll ever be,” I said, quickly regaining myself. I frowned. “You won’t be standing over my shoulder, will you?”
Haldir gave a reassuring smile. “Of course not. You are not a child. You are an officer of the army. But I will not be far should you need anything.”
“I’m not expecting to,” I assured him.
“I know,” he said and approached me, grasping my shoulder with a strong hand. “You’ll do fine, Rúmil. Most of these men know you, and they support you as their Captain. I wouldn’t have given you this assignment if I didn’t think you were the right elf for the position. Even so, there are always a few who will try to challenge you. They are jealous. It can’t be helped. But if you stay true to who you are and how Father raised you, I know you will do just fine.”
“I’m glad you believe in me, Haldir.”
“It’s not a matter of what I believe. You must believe in yourself,” he said. “Come now. It is time.”
We left my office, and I closed the door behind me. Orophin was waiting in the hall, and he bowed with his hand over his heart as a sign of respect for a fellow elf. “Captain Rúmil, my, don’t you look dashing in your new uniform. It quite becomes you, I think.” His teasing tone was wearing thin on my already frazzled nerves.
“Alright, enough,” Haldir intercepted. “He’s got enough on his mind right now. He doesn’t need you harassing him. It wasn’t that long ago that you were where Rúmil is today.”
Orophin clasped my shoulder. “I remember that day clearly, which is why I know how you feel right now. Just remember to stay focused and confident in front of your men. First impressions are everlasting. Earn their respect right from the start. And remember that they want to be commanded.”
“Thanks, I’ll keep that in mind,” I smiled in answer.
Orophin leaned into my ear. “I’m still going to take all the good recruits though. You should have visited the training grounds, dear brother. I’ve already picked out the best of the best.”
“I’ll rely on my sources, thank you,” I said.
* * * * *
A group of almost one hundred men stood at attention, their grey tunics fit snug to their chests, boots polished, hair properly braided to the sides. Their quivers were full and their bows newly strung. The silver pommels of their swords sat shining at their hips. Everything was in place. I could not find anything to question. But their eyes, I could feel them follow me when my back was turned. They were already judging me, sizing me up before I had a chance to introduce myself. I’d expected this though, and I returned the examination as I walked up and down the front line of my men. They were a sharp looking group, eyes of an eagle and reflexes of a cat. It wasn’t because of me that they were in such good shape, but it was my responsibility to make sure they stayed this way.
I started out with a speech I’d written and memorized, but it began to feel empty and emotionless. Instead, I abandoned it and spoke from my heart. As soon as I did, I could feel them relax. I saw the confidence in their eyes. They agreed with everything I was saying. The fear between us was beginning to slip away. I only wanted what was best for my men, and in return they would give me their all. I gave an overview of some new tactics I planned on using. They seemed interested. And then I talked about the Choosing. We would not have the advantage of first choice. That would go to my brother and two other Captains. However, I expected them to work with the recruits. It would do no good to avoid them or shun them when they needed advice. I told my men that I’d be choosing mentors for those who needed extra instruction. When I asked for volunteers in advance, a few raised their bows. This allowed me to see who I could count on and possibly recruit as leaders on the battlefield. All in all, everyone was attentive and seemed ready to make sure the Northern Guard stayed the strongest regiment of the Lórien army. There were only two that I questioned. Their mannerisms reflected their arrogance. It was common with any large group. Some thought they were above law and commands. I already had them pegged, and I would keep a close eye on them. It was nothing I could not handle, though. Even Haldir and Orophin would have troublemakers, and they knew how to keep them in line. I was confident that I would too.
The first part of the day was behind. Orientation went well, and I was happy with the results. I sent the men to their barracks for a brief rest and the afternoon meal. They would return to the training grounds and I would put them through exercises to see how well they fought. During this down time, I went to my office, and found numerous messages from other captains of the Guard. Some congratulated me, other’s challenged me. It was the usual. There was a note from Haldir, expressing his pride. Obviously, he had been observing me this morning, but he’d stayed true to his word and did not interfere. I read one message after another when I came to a folded slip of parchment with trace of a familiar earthy scent. My heart raced as I unfolded it. In a very neat hand it said simply, ‘Congratulations, Captain.’ It was signed with a single letter, T.
I folded the paper and immediately stuffed it inside my pocket, glancing around my office as though someone had seen me reading it. I was, of course, alone, but I couldn’t help myself. None of my acquaintances had ever sent me a note before. They would not dare risk it. Still, there was nothing incriminating here. It was a simple note signed with an initial, innocent enough that it would not raise suspicions if it had been intercepted. It made me worry though, for here was someone I had only just met and spoken to so briefly that I could barely consider him an acquaintance, sending me a message. But as much as it had me worried, it also had my blood thrumming with excitement. I was sure he would be at our meeting place tonight, and I could not wait to see him again. I would have to lay down the rules though. I could not have multiple notes sent from a mysterious person. As long as I was on duty, he should not and could not contact me. One thing that puzzled me though. All messages were stamped with a seal, especially those carried into the army camps. The one from Túron had no such seal, as though it had been hand delivered by the messenger himself. But that was not possible. Túron was a servant. He did not have permission to enter the military camp without escort, and definitely not into a Captain’s quarters. So how did the message end up among the others? I would have to ask him when I saw him tonight.
The rest of the day went smoothly once we got to the training grounds. There was a bit of confusion, and we had to wait for the trainees to finish their routines for the day. I let my men go ahead and watch the training session if they so pleased, but I did not go. I refused to watch the new recruits, remembering how anxious I was when I was a trainee and a Captain decided to watch. I’d always felt like I was being judged before I was ready. What if I made a mistake and he made his decision from that one mishap? It wasn’t just me. Other recruits in my class were just as nervous whenever any of the Captains came to the training grounds to watch. We were told that anything they witnessed in training would not go against us at the Choosing, but I didn’t believe that. First impressions were most important, I reminded myself. And so I refused to be one of the Captains that watched the trainees before the Choosing.
I did, however, have my friend, Tarlis, report his findings. I could trust his word and judgment, because he saw these recruits every day and knew how they were progressing. And since I would be one of the last to choose, I knew I would have more borderline recruits than head of the class types. Tarlis kept me informed about this particular group, and let me know which ones were making the best progress. My only rule was that there be no names, so there was no influence of family. So Tarlis identified the different elves with different traits, the tall lanky one, or the long blond haired one, the dark haired ellon or the one who shot left handed … things like that. They were anonymous to me, and I’d make sure it stayed that way until the day of the Choosing.
The day ended with success, and I sent my men off to the hot springs to ease their tired muscles. They were appreciative of this decision, and I think they could see that I would take care of them as long as they worked hard and followed orders. Even the troublemakers seemed likely to be less trouble. The men would have to remain at the barracks tonight, but I had a good hot meal sent to them, and they were allowed to take it easy for the rest of the night. It had been a stressful day, but rewarding, and I looked forward to doing it all over again tomorrow.
I sat in my office at the end of the day, finishing up paperwork and whatnot, when both of my brothers came in, a shit eating grin adorning each of their faces. Orophin grabbed me first, in a choke hold position where he could then ruffle my hair as he laughed. Haldir stood with his back against the wall, foot propped up and arms crossed, as he watched. Orophin released me and I pushed him away, laughing myself.
“Alright, alright,” I complained as I smoothed my hair down. “I see you are both pleased for me, though you have an odd way of showing it.”
“I knew you’d do well,” Orophin said. “And I’m just ecstatic that we get to do this together. With me and Rúmil as Captains, and Haldir as March Warden of the Northern Border Guard, we’ll be the most successful regiment in the history of the Lothlórien army.”
“We certainly have come a long way, haven’t we?” Haldir observed. “If only Father were still here to see us. He would be so proud.”
We fell silent for a moment as we each remembered our father and all he’d done for us. He would definitely be proud of his three sons, each a successful leader in the army. It was exactly what he’d always wanted for us, and we did not disappoint.
The three of us went to dinner together to celebrate our first day. Haldir and Orophin were in their cups by the time we parted. I’d made sure to drink moderately. I did not want anything to hinder me that evening. As the sun disappeared, my blood pulsed with excitement. It was almost time to seek out Túron in the gardens. A quick stop at my home to freshen up and change out of my uniform, and I was ready. I decided to dress in civilian clothes tonight. I didn’t want it to seem that I was always on duty. I was on duty enough as it was. It felt good to escape the titles and the regiment for a change. I wore grey legging and a white tunic with a matching grey jerkin that laced up the sides. I undid the tight warrior braids and decided on a loose braiding that would keep my hair from my face. It was a casual look, the way someone would appear when they were in no particular hurry, and that’s how I felt about Túron. I wanted to take my time getting to know him better.
* * * * *
The sun had been down for about half an hour by the time I arrived at the gardens. There were only a few couples walking the grounds, enjoying the early evening with a stroll through the fragrant flowers. Though the gardens were beautiful, it wasn’t thought of as a place where lovers met. There were other areas of the city of Caras Galadhon reserved for romance. The garden was a casual spot where friends or couples met to enjoy a quiet moment or to have casual conversations. So it would not look out of place for Túron and myself to be seen strolling the many pathways. We could enjoy each other’s company while getting acquainted. And I didn’t really expect any romance tonight, not on our first meeting. The tightening of my abdomen would say otherwise, but reason stood firm in my decision to take things slowly.
I entered the gate, and saw Túron immediately. He smiled, but not overly eager. I nodded and approached him. He wore green leggings and a surcoat of the same shade, tied with a belt around his waist. It was embroidered in silver thread, very rich looking, impressive for a servant. I thought it must be his best outfit. His hair was brushed straight and smooth, a beautiful shade of dark brown, and loose braids similar to my own.
As I closed the distance, he turned towards me, shoulders straight and head up, the corners of his mouth curved into a welcoming but nervous smile. And his eyes, ah, those beautiful blue eyes were such a contrast to his dark hair. They stood out in the evening like topaz gems gleaming by the pathway lights. He was simply gorgeous.
“Good evening, Túron,” I greeted him with a polite bow.
He greeted me the same. “Captain Rúmil, it is a pleasure.”
“Please, tonight I am simply Rúmil. No titles.”
“As you wish.” He glanced around the garden. “Beautiful evening, is it not?”
“Beautiful, indeed,” I answered, insinuating that it was more than the night that was pleasant.
We set off immediately, walking slowly, making small talk. He stayed close to my side, and I could feel the heat from his body transferring to mine. There was definitely a current running between us, exchanging its charge from one to the other. The feeling was strong, stronger than I’d ever remembered with anyone else. I didn’t like being nervous, but I feared I’d do something prematurely, and I didn’t want to scare him off. Túron seemed as confident as ever. I don’t think anything I might have done would have chased him away. He wanted to play this game just as much as I did.
“And that’s why I’m working as a server in the main hall. It is only temporary,” he said, finishing his brief background.
“So you have not always lived in Lothlórien?” I asked. His dark hair said he was Noldor, possibly from Imladris.
“Actually, I was born in Rivendell. My parents sailed when I was still an elfling, and my brothers raised me.”
“Oh, you have brothers,” I said, interested in learning about his family.
“They are members of the patrol guard in Imladris.”
“Your father,” I asked curiously. “Was he a soldier also?”
Túron smiled and shook his head. “He was a member of Lord Elrond’s court, a scribe and a translator. He could speak any language of Middle-earth.”
“Sounds like my brother, Haldir. He conducts most of the negotiations with outsiders, and he’s been taught almost every language.”
A light breeze swirled around us, and the leaves of the trees on either side of the path rustled. It was my favorite sound in the woods. I was reminded of evenings on duty, keeping a look out while the rest of the troops took their rest. There was something comforting about the sound of leaves moving, like that of falling rain.
I hadn’t realized I’d stopped walking until I felt the stillness of my feet. I had closed my eyes to allow nature’s music to wash over me. When I opened them, I found Túron standing directly in front of me, blue orbs scanning my countenance.
“Do you do that often?” he asked.
“My brothers tell me I used to do it all the time as an elfling. Sometimes I just can’t help myself. It is as though the trees are speaking to me, or perhaps singing a lullaby.” I shook myself and came to. “I apologize. I don’t even know I do it at times. It was rude of me. You were saying?”
Túron’s eyes narrowed with intrigue, and the corner of his mouth twitched into a smile. His head cocked to the side as he observed me. “You are very in tune, Rúmil. That is a rare quality.”
“Aren’t all elves just as perceptible?” I said, making a joke of my unusual and embarrassing behavior.
Túron was serious as he answered. “Not all of us can speak with the trees, neither do the trees speak with all elves. That is a gift not to be wasted.” He looked around the area, but we were completely alone in this part of the garden. When he was satisfied of our privacy, he reached out and took up my loose braid between his fingers. “There is more to you than I thought I knew.”
I wasn’t sure what he meant by that. What could he possibly know about me? “I’ve never given it a second thought. It’s just some silly notion that I–”
“No, Rúmil, not silly. It is amazing. I wish I had that talent. I love spending time within the boughs of the trees, but try as I might, I cannot decipher their language. I am deaf in that way.”
Something changed between us after that. Túron, though still confident as usual, was not as flirtatious and carefree. Before he seemed reckless in that way, but now he reigned himself in, a sudden maturity I guess you could call it. It made me trust him more for some reason, made us seem more like in age than we really were. But I had to admit to myself that I liked the dangerous and daring side of Túron.
We found ourselves at the opposite end of the garden where there was a small gazebo covered in ivy. No one was around. All the other visitors had stayed towards the entrance where the flowers grew. In this area, there were mainly trees with benches that surrounded their trunks, but not much color.
“Would you like to sit a spell?” I asked, gesturing to the gazebo.
Túron nodded and we made our way to the private sitting area. Once inside, it felt like no one would ever find us here. The ivy grew thick and it hadn’t been trimmed in some time. Torches surrounded the outside, but inside it was cozy and dark, just the way I liked it. I sat and Túron sat opposite me. It was a little disappointing, but I knew better than to think we would sit side by side. We didn’t know each other very well yet.
“So,” Túron began the conversation. “I hear today was a success.”
“Word spreads quickly. Yes it was a good day. A little tense at first, but once I found my rhythm–” My choice of words caused me to hesitate. “Once I became comfortable in front of my troops, it went much smoother.” I thought of the message he’d sent. “I got your note. Thank you for that bit of confidence.”
“It was nothing, and I couldn’t help myself. I hope you don’t mind. I tried to be as discreet as possible.”
“It was fine.” I paused, not sure how to lead into this next comment. It seemed a bit early for rules, but . . . “Túron, I don’t know how much you know about the army and its laws–”
“I know them well. Rivendell has something similar.”
“I am surprised that, with your family history, you have not taken up soldiering,” I commented.
“Well, if it were up to my brothers I would be. They tried to teach me their ways, but alas it never stuck. However, I did become quite good with the bow. The sword though … definitely not my strong point.” He smiled and readjusted his posture, leaning back with his hands braced on the bench. It left him open and exposed, especially as he tilted his head to the side, revealing his long neck. “And you? Your brothers were successful I see.”
“My father mainly. He was a Captain and eventually March Warden of the Northern Border Guard. Haldir, Orophin and I grew up within the military. It was instilled upon us at a very early age.”
“You had no choice in the matter, then,” Túron said. His eyes roamed across me where I sat opposite him. “But then, you look as though you are built for it. Runs much deeper in your blood than in mine.”
“Actually, I never considered doing anything else. It’s second nature to me. I enjoy army life very much.”
“And yet–” He didn’t need to finish his sentence. I knew where he was going with the conversation.
“I’ve always been able to keep my private life separate. I never mix one with the other.”
“I daresay. So, how do you … do it?” he asked curiously.
I smiled impishly and raised a brow at him. “Discreetly.”
Túron raised his hands in the air and looked around our little sanctuary. “Like this?”
“More or less.”
His hands came back down and gripped the edge of the bench as he leaned forward. I could see his eyes were alight with a desire to know more. “Do you ever … push the limits?”
“What do you mean?”
He moved from his side of the gazebo and sat next to me, our legs slightly brushing against each other. “Do you ever put yourself in a compromising position, where you are within inches of discovery?”
“No, never,” I said stoutly. “I would never risk it. There’s too much at stake besides my own corruption. If I was caught, not only would I be ejected from the army, but my brothers would suffer as well. Scandal follows the family, not just the individual.”
“And you do not consider this a risk?” he said, gesturing to our surroundings.
“Can two friends not have a conversation? That’s all we are doing right now,” I answered.
Túron looked past my shoulder, gazing through the vines. “So it would not be considered scandalous for us to be discovered right now, especially by two other soldiers?”
“No, I wouldn’t–” but I paused as I turned to see who Túron was looking at. Passing outside of the gazebo was none other than Raenor and his brother Gúdir. That wasn’t the most surprising thing. They were accompanied by two females, one of them the elleth I took to the festival.
“Say, isn’t that the lady elf that you were with at the–”
“Yes,” I said, cutting him short. I watched as Raenor’s hand gently touched her lower back, guiding her along the garden path. His brother walked with another elleth, who I did not know. They followed Raenor at a slight distance. I wouldn’t have been disturbed, but for the look that Raenor wore upon his countenance, as though the girl were prey, and he was the wolf biding his time before he struck. Raenor might have tried to spread rumors about my brother Haldir … and he failed miserably … but stories told about Raenor were true. It was for this reason that I kept a sharp eye on them. “I think perhaps we better go.”
“Now?” Túron said surprised.
“Is there a problem?” The words seemed a little harsh, but I was too busy concentrating on Raenor. I had a feeling he was up to no good.
“There is a slight problem,” Túron answered.
“And what might that be?” I asked. I turned my eyes towards him, and found him only inches from me, studying my face, my lips mostly.
“Well, it’s just that … those soldiers are so close … and I am in a daring mood.” He covered his mouth over mine, kissing me solidly. And those full lips were just as delicious as I’d thought they’d be. I should have protested, pushed him away. Raenor and Gúdir were not far. The slightest movement, the slightest sound, and they would be upon us.
And then Túron’s hand was resting upon my chest, his lips assaulting mine, his tongue daring to taste. I found myself not caring what happened, as long as I could keep kissing Túron. My hand moved involuntarily around his waist, pulling his body against mine. We seemed a perfect fit.
I can’t begin to explain the charges of static that ebbed throughout my body as we kissed for the first time. No one had ever made me feel like this before. His lips were luxurious, like satin, as they slid against mine. His breath was warm upon my face. We moved together like we’d done this a thousand times already. There was no awkwardness, only escalated anticipation.
His hand came around behind my neck, and he drew closer to me until our chests heaved against each other. Both our breaths had become hurried as our tongues found passage. His scent of green and earth made me feel light headed. The world around me began to swirl, and the only thing keeping me from falling over was Túron. And I realized that I wanted him. My heart was thrumming wildly out of control, as though it would burst from my chest. I never wanted to stop kissing him, never wanted him to stop touching me. It felt so good, so right, so … dangerous, as we were only within earshot away from . . .
“You are disgusting. Take your hands off me this instant,” came the demands of the elleth not far from our hiding place.
On instinct, I pushed Túron away and turned to see what was happening outside. Raenor had the elleth pinned against a tree, trying to kiss her neck, his hands roaming where she did not want them to go. I watched the scene unfold, feeling like I was outside of my own body. I could still feel Túron upon my swollen lips, and I wanted badly to return to the previous moment.
Túron stood beside me and watched. “I guess I cannot persuade you to stay?”
I gave him a look with my brows furrowed in disbelief at his comment. Surely he wasn’t suggesting that I ignore her pleas? But he shook his head, knowing it was the wrong thing to say to a soldier. “Of course not. I’m sorry. Go on. Duty calls.”
The elleth was struggling to get away from Raenor. I noticed that his brother was gone. Who knew what he was doing with the other girl, but I couldn’t watch out for both of them, and right then, Raenor was within my line of sight.
“Stay here,” I told Túron and stepped out of the gazebo, alone.
Raenor had a hold of the elleth’s arm, and his body pressed flat against hers. She was trying to slither out of his arms, but he would not let her go. And then she saw me standing behind Raenor, and stopped struggling. Raenor stopped moving also, sensing an intrusion. He glanced back over his shoulder.
“It’s a lovely night for a walk,” I started, not wanting to be aggressive. I knew Raenor through my brother’s experience with him. He could become quite agitated rather quickly.
Raenor turned and backed away from the elleth, though he still clenched one hand around her arm. “Well, if it isn’t one of the Lórien Three.”
“Captain Rúmil to you,” I demanded.
He laughed quietly under his breath, and his darkened eyes settled on me menacingly. “Ah, yes. I heard the news. Of course, it is only because of your brother, Haldir that you are in this new position. I still out rule you … Captain. Now, off with you before I find a reason to report you.” He turned back to the elleth. “Where were we?”
“I was just leaving,” she scowled.
“Oh, but the night is still young. Can you not find it within your heart to–”
“The lady said she would like to retire for the evening.” My ire was rising quickly, and I took several steps closer as I interrupted.
Raenor rounded on me, scanning me as though looking for something. “What’s the matter, Captain? Can’t find an elleth of your own, so you’re going to take mine?”
“I am not yours to keep or to give away,” she said pugnaciously. She yanked her arm from his grip and left the irritated March Warden standing beside the tree where he’d trapped her. “Rúmil, will you see me home properly?”
“It will be my pleasure,” I said, holding an arm out for her to take, but I was suddenly grabbed from behind, and face to face with an angry Raenor.
“No one will be taking her home except me.” Raenor proceeded to push me, and took my place at the elleth’s side. She made to move away from him, but he took hold of her in his iron grasp. She thrashed her arm, trying to get away, but Raenor would have none of it.
I was through with this idiot. March Warden or not, no one treated a woman like property, nor should they demand their person upon her if she did not wish it. I stormed towards him and grabbed his arm, squeezing it hard until he let her go. When he unlatched his claw, he came after me, but I dodged his attack and tripped him. Too smart to fall for that simple trick, Raenor caught himself before he stumbled. Anger dressed his eyes. I knew I had a fight on my hands, and whether I won or not made no difference. Raenor was a March Warden. Even though he was of the Eastern Border Guard, he was still a superior officer in the army, and I would likely be reprimanded for fighting with a commander. At the moment, though, I didn’t care. Then, just as I was about to defend the lady’s virtue, a solid hand grasped my shoulder, stopping me.
“Gentlemen, what seems to be the trouble here?” It was Túron. He’d come out of the gazebo, but it had gone unnoticed due to our ruckus.
Raenor took one quick look at Túron and knew he was a civilian. “Nothing to see here. The Captain is speaking out of order to a commanding officer, and I was about to teach him a thing or two of respect.” He took me by my upper arm, as if he was about to lead me away from the scene. Túron set a hand on Raenor’s shoulder, and smiled with a calming nature.
“I’m sorry, March Warden, but I’ve been watching the scene unfold here, and I think it is you who needs a lesson in scruples. I fortunately heard the lady ask you to unhand her. Captain Rúmil was only coming to her aid after witnessing your disapproval in her decision to go home. How about this? As a third party, and an outside spectator, I will offer to escort . . .” He paused and smiled at the elleth, eyebrows raised in question.
“Oh,” she said, as though regaining consciousness. “Uh, Lennil.”
Túron took up her hand and kissed it lightly on the knuckles. “Lovely name for a lovely elleth. Anyways, as I was saying, I shall see that Lennil makes it safely to her door. You two can stay here and come to some kind of an accord, though, I suggest that the March Warden overlook anything that happened here tonight. I’d hate to have to report my findings to the Lord and Lady.”
I was amazed. I was stunned. Túron handled himself professionally, hardly what one would expect of a servant. In that moment I knew there was more to him than I’d first perceived.
Raenor, however, was scowling at him, caught off guard and accused of misconduct. Just as quickly, he straightened himself and regained his composure. “Fine, please see the lady home.” Then he turned to me. “I’ll let this little mishap slip by just this once, Captain, but should we meet again under such circumstances, it will be your brother who has to deal your punishment. And by law, it will be his duty.”
“Good evening, gentlemen,” Túron interrupted. Then he offered his arm to Lennil and directed her along the path. I watched them walk away, wishing I was in the elleth’s place, and that I was escorting Túron to my own abode. But now was neither the time nor the place.
Now that I was alone with Raenor, I let my ire come forth and turned to him with an angry stare. “I don’t know what you’re about, but I smell a scandal. If you think anything that happened here will come back to my brother, and that you’ll try to use it to dirty his name or reputation, think again. There is a witness who says you were in the wrong.”
Raenor looked absolutely disgusted. “Now see here! I don’t know what Haldir has told you but–”
“He’s told me enough, and I’ve seen enough to know that you would do anything to have him tossed out of his position, out of the army, and see that his name and my family’s name was no longer acceptable to utter within military circles.”
I thought I had Raenor cornered, but he smiled sickeningly and fixed me with a repugnant stare. “You seem awfully quick to cast threats at me, Rúmil. Perhaps I was not the only one behaving badly. I know my reasons for attending the gardens tonight. What might you be doing here?”
“I was merely taking a walk,” I countered.
“By yourself? Seems suspicious already.” He paused and sized me up. “I happen to know that you escorted Lennil to the festival a few weeks back. Perhaps you are jealous that she is with me and not you, and you thought you’d ambush me. What happened? Did she have second thoughts about being seen on the arm of one of the Lórien brothers? Was it something you did, or perhaps something you didn’t do?”
It was a beautiful early summer night, still feasibly cool when the sun had set, but I was seeing red and feeling the flames of Mordor licking at my back. “It is none of your business what transpired between the lady and myself, but I’ll tell you this much. She was treated properly, and not slobbered upon.” I got right up close to his face and narrowed my eyes. “I’ll not stand here another moment and bandy words with the likes of you.” I turned at once and started to walk away, but Raenor had one more comment to throw at me.
“Wouldn’t happen to be here with that ellon, I hope. That would not bode well with the army,” he called smartly.
I stopped and stood still as I tried to gather myself before I responded. It was a chancy thing he was accusing me of. It was also true, and it could ruin me and my family. I was treading dangerous territory, and my reaction would speak louder than any words of denial. Luckily, I didn’t have to respond. Gúdir, Raenor’s brother, entered the path, picking leaves from his clothes, the elleth with him not in much better condition. There were dirt smudges on her skirts, and her hair was slightly tumbled. She looked giddy as she walked alongside Gúdir. At least whatever they had been up to was mutual.
“What’s going on here?” Gúdir asked, pulling the elleth along with him.
“Where’s Lennil?” the lady asked, looking around the area.
“She retired early,” Raenor answered, his eyes never leaving mine in warning not to speak. Seems he didn’t want his brother to know about his lewd behavior.
Gúdir looked from his brother, to me, and back at Raenor. Then he clapped a sturdy hand upon his older brother’s shoulder. “Come on, Raenor, let’s be on our way. Maybe we’ll catch up to Lennil.”
Raenor wasn’t ready to leave just yet, but he followed his brother all the same. He still eyed me even as they left the area. I couldn’t help but think he was up to something, just like Haldir had been saying. Only now, I wondered if he was going to try to use me as his subject. I wondered what had showed upon my face as he accused me of having relations with Túron. Had I given myself away? I was always very careful to be discreet about such things, but when threatened . . .
I didn’t think it was possible, but one could never tell. Seems things changed once a person obtained a title. Being Captain was not going to be easy in any sense of the position. There were those who were out to ruin me, mainly Raenor. But I knew it was not me he was after, rather through me, he could ruin Haldir and Orophin as well. So much for quiet walks through the gardens with Túron, or any such suspicious behavior. It was times like this that I wished I’d picked another form of career.
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Path of Honor