Chapter Text
Days had passed, and three search parties had been sent out to gather any information or to find any trace about Sauron. They had been sent to places orcs had already raided and left in ruins. No success had been found, yet.
That same morning, another search party was to be sent out.
Galadriel had woken up, gotten dressed and had broken her fast all by herself. When asked about Halbrand’s whereabouts, Bronwyn had not offered a clear answer. She had tried to dodge the question, and that had unrailed her from her peaceful state.
As soon as she heard the big entrance doors closing and the sounds of hooves outside, she marched towards that direction.
Halbrand was standing next to Shadow. He was in full armor of a silver—grey—color. Bits were a darker shade. It had beautiful and detailed scales. He was not wearing his crown and his curls were unruled by the soft breeze of the morning. Behind him was a team of soldiers with their horses as they packed them with provisions.
“What is the meaning of this?” Galadriel stepped down the stairs, holding her skirts and making her way to Halbrand. As soon as he heard her, he turned around.
“Good morning, Galadriel.” He offered her a smile.
“Answer me,” she demanded.
“I’m joining the search party that I’m sending out today.”
“I’m coming with you.” She tried to turn around to march back to the castle, but he grabbed her arm and stopped her from doing so.
“No, you are not.”
“And who are you to give me orders?” She defied him back, her face close to his. Her cheeks flushed and rage cursed through her veins.
“The king,” he simply answered.
“And, I’m the queen.” She growled back at him.
“You are not coming, Galadriel. It is decided.” His tone was stern. He looked much more serious than he usually did. His playful attitude was nowhere to be seen. “I will not hear about it.” It was a warning. “I need you to stay here and rule in my absence.” His expression softened.
“This is my mission, my purpose.” She gritted her teeth at him. How dare he go on this task and leave her behind? She had been looking for Sauron for countless centuries. She vowed to take him down. He was not going to take this from her.
“Not anymore. Your purpose is to rule and be the people’s queen.” He tried to touch her, but Galadriel pulled away. “You will stay, and be in charge of the kingdom while I go out there.”
“Where are you off to?” The least he could do was to inform her.
“A trail was found. An abandoned camp past the woods. It’s a two day ride. Arondir sent a message.”
Galadriel nodded. Her rage had not dissipated, it was still latent. She wanted to go out there, and wanted to find a possible trail that led to Sauron and be over with this. She felt she was close…
“Please, stay here and watch over our people.” A hand was placed on her arm. This time, she did not pull away, and looked down where he was touching her. “I will be back soon. Whatever I find, I will let you know and we will see how to deal with it—together.” She looked up at him, her blue eyes meeting his hazel ones. There was sincerity in his gaze.
Galadriel simply nodded. She had no words that would not worsen the situation, so she opted to stay quiet even if a fire burnt bright inside of her.
“I left you a gift in the forge.” A playful smile appeared on his face. “Take care, my queen. I will see you soon.”
And with that, he mounted on Shadow and signalled the soldiers to follow him.
Galadriel stared from afar as they slowly marched out of town and disappeared into the horizon.
Galadriel had needed time to calm down after her encounter with Halbrand. It had enraged her not being able to be out there. This was what she was best at. She was a warrior, and had spent the longest time out there fighting for Middle-Earth’s fate, trying to rid it of the darkness.
Sauron had been her mission—all she could think of. But, now she was relegated to being a wife. Something her own kin had traded her for in order of peace and a treaty.
She had always wanted to rule, yes. It has been her desire. But, not like this.
Galadriel could still rule the kingdom and be out there fighting her battles. There was no reason to stay hidden in a castle.
A young man, part of the castle’s crew, had been her sparring partner, as she tried to relieve some tension inside of her.
The poor young lad had not been able to keep up with Galadriel. He was skilled—but definitely not an opponent for her. She had been faster and tougher, delivering blows that had the kid stepping back and almost falling on his bottocks. She was being too hard on him. Maybe, she needed to calm down and let out her frustrations in a way that would not require to torture someone.
After a while, she dismissed the boy, who was exhausted and sporting a shocked look on his face.
And then, Galadriel had decided to finally head down to Halbrand’s forge. She knew that whatever she found there, it would unnerve her even more. But curiosity got the best of her, and she had to find out what he was talking about.
Galadriel opened the door to the forge and walked in. It was quiet and all well organized. She had noticed Halbrand’s need for order. Everything was always in its place and in an immaculate state.
The fire that was usually lit in the fireplace was now off.
Her eyes widened as her face turned and she caught sight of a beautiful silver armor that stood there exposed. It shone brightly and the details were stunning. And in the middle there was a star–shaped sygil—the one that Finrod would also proudly wear to symbolize their House.
A hand covered her mouth and she felt tears forming in her eyes. It was magnificent. She had never seen anyone other than elves craft such beautiful armor. The only other creature she had known to be as skilled as her own kin had been the Maia that they used to call Mairon. The same creature she was hunting down for centuries, the one who betrayed his own kind, joined the darkness and helped destroy Middle-Earth.
Halbrand was certainly talented, she was stunned. She had no words.
She walked in circles around the armor, observing it and its details. Her fingers brushed over the cold material. It was perfect, but at the same time, it angered her. Why had he given her an armor when she was not allowed to play Commander anymore? Was he trying to mock her? Or had he just crafted it for her to display? And be reminded of what she no longer would get to do, her brain added.
Even in her anger, she wanted to try on the glorious armor that he had made for her. But, she opted not to do it, not now. She was covered in sweat and dirt from sparring. And, even if the armor was supposed to be for battle—which was not a clean place—she was scared of staining it—or even ruining it. She would try it on later, after she had taken a relaxing bath and had calmed down.
Days had gone by since Halbrand and some of his soldiers had left. Galadriel had not heard from him in the meantime. But, she had not been too worried. They had a long journey ahead and needed to settle first.
She had not done much. She had gone out for a walk with Bronwyn through the village, and had visited the daily market by artisans and farmers.
Her kindness knew no bounds, and she had traded a few coins for some fruits and vegetables. And had even bought a gorgeous necklace made by a little girl.
She then enjoyed dinner by herself. The castle felt so quiet without Halbrand around. It was good, but it also made her feel uncomfortable. Had it happened in Lindon, she would have not minded the solitude. But, here she was out of place, the only one of her kind and far from home. She needed to get used to it, this was going to be her life. She sighed.
Bronwyn had made her company as long as she could, but she felt bad about keeping the maid away from her own life. So after a while, she told her she was dismissed. Bronwyn tried to make sure that that was what she wanted. Galadriel had insisted, and had finally seen her march to the servants’ quarters.
Galadriel had not slept that night, and had spent it in the library, going through the few books it contained. Bronwyn found her the next morning as she sat on the floor, books sprawled around her.
“Galadriel.” She looked up when Bronwyn called her name. “Have you even slept?”
Galadriel shook her head.
“You think that is normal?” Bronwyn had her hands on her hips, she was acting so motherly.
“Bronwyn, you are sharing your life with an elf.” Bronwyn’s cheeks flushed at the Arondir mention. “You should know by now that elves do not require as much sleep as men do.” She flashed her a grin.
“Get up and head to the dining room. If you don’t sleep, you will at least break your fast.” It was not a suggestion, it was an order. Galadriel only laughed at seeing Bronwyn irritated. She got up and walked past her, pressing a hand on her shoulder and squeezing it. “Go!”
Galadriel had been around in the gardens, admiring the flowers and enjoying the rays of sunshine. It was a lovely day.
She had visited the market in the morning, had greeted various villagers and had even collected some flowers to decorate her chambers.
She had been sitting on a bench outside of the castle, when something disrupted her peace.
Galadriel heard hooves running towards her way and a panting sound. She looked into the distance and saw Shadow galloping towards the castle.
She quickly got up and ran in front of the stairs.
“Hey, Shadow.” She called for the horse, and it slowed down before it reached her. The horse seemed exhausted, his hair wet. She could hear its heart racing and struggling to breathe. It had seemed to run and run until it reached the village. “What are you doing here?” Her touch helped calm Shadow. He nuzzled his head against her, trying to find comfort. “Where is Halbrand?”
The horse only neighed, and started to become erratic again.
Something had happened for the horse to come back alone without Halbrand.
Galadriel examined it, walking around it. Her hand was not leaving its form. It kept him calm.
Her eyes widened when she saw blood over some parts of his hair and the saddle.
Halbrand.
“Shadow, where is Halbrand?” She was starting to become very worried. What had happened? Was Halbrand hurt? And, where was he?
Shadow neighed again and went up on his back legs. Its behaviour was very atypical and impatient. And it felt as if the animal knew what had happened to its owner but was not able to explain it.
“Shhhh, shhhh!” She grabbed his reins and placed a hand on the juncture between its head and neck. She closed her eyes and tried to transmit as much peace and calmness as she could. “It’s okay. You are alright.” She caressed all over Shadow’s neck, and could slowly feel how his pounding heartbeat and blood flow calmed down. Shadow nuzzled into her with its big head and huffed. Another slight headbutt against her torso, and then the horse turned to face the long pathway and started to walk. “Are you trying to take me somewhere?” Shadow nodded.
Galadriel took a deep breath, grabbed the rains and mounted on the big black horse. No contact or instructions were needed, as soon as she was on the saddle, Shadow started to gallop towards the woods and away from the gardens.
It all had gone so fast, that no guard was aware that she had run away and off to try to find Halbrand. It was better this way. She did not need anyone slowing her down and demanding she stood still.
She just wished she had taken a sword with her, she did not know what perils awaited her. But, she was thankful that, at least, she had the dagger that Halbrand had forged for her strapped to her thigh under her dress. It was not much, but it could help her.
There was no time to waste.
The sun was setting in the horizon, and she was still wandering around the woods. She did not know how much longer it would take her. Eru, she did not even know if Shadow was taking her somewhere where Halbrand was. It had just kept going despite its exhaustion. It seemed determined to take her wherever it was that it was going.
“Shadow, how much longer?” She caressed its maine. Her hearing was put into her surroundings trying to find any possible noise, or even threat. She could not be alone in the vast and deep woods.
Birds chirped and she could hear deer and rabbits moving around. She wished that those were the only inhabitants there with her. As much as she craved a fight, she was not prepared for one
Shadow guided her further and then stopped. Its ears perked up.
Galadriel closed her eyes and focused once again on her surroundings. Her eyes widened when she heard moans and cries in the distance.
“Halbrand.” She pressed her heels against Shadow’s sides and the stallion started to gallop in between the trees. A panted breath and the groans were getting louder and closer. And then she spotted him. Halbrand’s back was resting against a tree. He was in his armor, torn on the front, hanging by threads. He had a massive cut all over his chest and he was covered in blood from head to toe. His face was bruised and his lip and cheek were cut. His eyes were closed and he was wincing in pain. His hands were tied with rope in front of him.
Shadow neighed as he approached the King, and Galadriel was quick to jump off the horse in a very skillful way as she ran to him in panic.
“Halbrand?” She went on her knees. She was scared to touch him. He looked so broken and frail. He seemed to be in so much pain. His heartbeat was very low and he was struggling to breathe.
Her hands went to his shoulders and she carefully shook him. He groaned in response, and she pulled away.
“Halbrand? Can you hear me?” She moved his greasy and blood covered hair out of his face and inspected it. She could see he also had a black eye and a cut on his forehead. There was dry and fresh blood on his skin, and also dirt.
“Gala…driel?” He groaned in pain. His eyes did not open.
“Yes, Halbrand.” A soft smile escaped her.
“I must be dreaming.” His head fell back. “Or I’m dead.” Galadriel used her dagger to cut him free from the rope.
“You are not dead, Halbrand. I’m here with you. I found you.” She tenderly cupped his unharmed cheek.
His eyes slowly opened and they looked at her. He smiled.
“I’m surely dead. Such a beautiful creature.” He laughed, followed by a wince of pain. “There is such a bright light.” His hand came to touch her cheek, and she let him. “My queen.”
“Yes, I’m here.” She nodded and gave into his touch, cheek pressing against his weak palm.
“You cannot be. You are far away and safe.” The amount of pain he was in, was making him delirious.
“I’m here, Halbrand.” Her hand went to his and she pressed it on top, trying to get him out of whatever trance he was in. “Shadow brought me to you. I’m taking you home.”
“Smart boy.” He chuckled.
“Can you move?”
“I think so.” Halbrand tried to bend forward and a loud cry came from his throat as he fell back against the tree. More fresh blood started to spill down his torso.
“Halbrand, look at me.” She was quick to rip the skirt of her dress and pressed it against his chest. “Stay awake.”
“I’m tired and cold,” he muttered under his breath.
“Stay with me. You cannot let slumber take over.” She grabbed his shoulder, trying to keep him from succumbing to the darkness.
“Just for a little while. I’ll wake up fresh and new.” He laughed, and his eyes closed.
“Halbrand, no!”
She could still hear a faint heartbeat and his breath was not as erratic and difficult. The pain had caused him to pass out, but he was still there with her.
She took her time to wrap the cloth around his chest, to keep the hemorrhage in control. She looked around for anything that could help her. She heard water nearby, and spotted some herbs she could use to treat and help him. He was in no state to travel. They would have to spend the night out there.
Galadriel had left Halbrand with Shadow, and she had grabbed his sword, which she had found not so far away from him. It was heavier to what she was used to, and it was not as easy to manage. But she knew she could make it work if she had to, and it would help her a lot more than her small dagger.
She had collected some water from a river nearby with a flask Shadow had carried on him. And then she had gone off to hunt a hare. She was not only a skillful warrior, but also a great hunter. Leading an army all over Middle‐Earth had required her to be versatile and to know how to survive out there.
On her way back, she had collected the herbs she would need along with some wood to light a small fire.
Once she had been back, she had checked on Halbrand. He was still breathing and his heartbeat was stable. She sighed in relief.
“Halbrand.” She tried to shake him awake. Soft groans came from him. “I brought you water.”
She approached the flask to his mouth and offered the water to him. Halbrand didn’t open his eyes but swallowed the liquid he was offering her.
“There you go. Drink some more. Take it easy.”
When they were done, she lit a fire with the wood she had collected and started to prepare the hare she had caught. It was not a fine meal, but this would help Halbrand regain some strength before they could make their way back to the castle. She was sure that by now, the guard would be alerted that she had gone missing, and they would go out to try and locate her. She doubted they would find them here. It had not been an easy place to get to if it had not been by Shadow.
Galadriel had fed Halbrand some of the hare flesh on a stick, and he had braved through the pain as he ate it all. It seemed he had been starving. She also offered him some berries she had found in bushes, while she stared at him.
“What about you?” It was the first time he looked at her and she did not see a delirious man. He was far from being well, but seemed more conscious and aware of his surroundings.
“I will be fine.” She was preparing the mix of herbs in front of her. “Elves don’t have the same needs as men.” Her tone was not a harsh or condescending one. It was soft. “I will feed when we get back.”
Halbrand had finished his food, and his skin had a better color by then. He still looked pale and exhausted, but some progress had been made.
It was time to tend to Halbrand’s wounds. All that Elrond had taught her back in the day, was going to be used to help the King.
Galadriel had removed his broken chest plate and helped him get rid of the torn tunic he wore.
She had ripped some more cloth from her dress and had wetted it in water to clean the wounds and as much blood as possible.
“Umph,” Halbrand winced as Galadriel tended the wounds. She was thankful that the cuts had not been as worse as she had imagined now that she was having a good look at them. They were bad, but as soon as they got to the castle and Bronwyn got her hands on him, he would recover. They just had to make it through the night.
“I’m going to apply the ointment.” It was a warning.
“Go ahead.”
“It will sting.” Halbrand bit down on his lower lip to prepare himself. Galadriel applied the herbs over his cuts and he cried out in pain.
“Fuck.”
“I’m sorry. I will be quick.” And she was, and once she had finished she had bandaged his chest with the remaining of her skirts. She still had her shift underneath and she knew she would not freeze. He needed the fabric more than she did.
She helped Halbrand put the tunic back on and went to clean her hands.
“I’ll get us out of here.” It was a promise. “Where are the others?” She dared to ask. She had not talked to him about whatever had left him harmed or why Shadow had come back alone. Where were the others? How had he made it out alive? Who had attacked them?
“Dead.” A feeling of grief took over her. “We were ambushed by orcs. There was nothing we could do, Galadriel.” She could see the pain and rage in his eyes. “We fought hard, but there were too many of them. I do not know how I made it out of there. I was badly wounded and managed to get on Shadow.” She could see a tear rolling down his cheek. “Those men were brave and great warriors.” She placed a hand on his shoulder to comfort him. She knew how it felt, she had lost many to those foul creatures. It never got easier.
Galadriel then moved to work on the cuts on his face, cleaning them and then applying the same ointment.
After that, there was a long silence. The only thing that could be heard were the trees whispering, the fire cracking next to them and Shadow’s soft snores as he rested.
“I have seen him, Galadriel.”
“Who have you seen?”
“Sauron.” Her whole body shivered at the name. “He was there, Galadriel.” He grabbed her two wrists by his face, and stared right into her blue eyes. “I saw him.” She could feel him trembling, his eyes glassy with tears. He was terrified. “He appeared to me.” Another tear fell down his cheek, the stain of dirt following it. “He wanted everyone to know that Sauron is back. That he would come for the lands and its people to heal it all.”
Galadriel snorted. Heal? More like destroy. That is all he did. He turned it into terror and chaos until the darkness had nothing left to consume.
“I’m sorry, Galadriel,” he started.
“What for?” She was confused.
“I did not believe you, at first. I gave in into the ideas of search parties to keep you happy. I was convinced Sauron was not out there anymore, not for a long time,” he explained. “But, he is. I know now.”
“It is okay, Halbrand.” She tried to comfort him. This new information changed a lot. She knew he had been out there, but never imagined he would be so close to them. They needed to get out so she could hunt him down. But, she could not do that. Not now. Even if they escaped, Halbrand was hurt. She could not carry him to go after Sauron, and leaving him to his luck was no option either. He was so close, and yet, she had to let him go. This was a battle she was not ready for. It angered her.
“He knows you are after him, Galadriel.” Her eyes widened. “He told me about the warrior elf that is hunting him. He sang praises of you.” Her fists closed. “He says you are courageous and determined.”
“He thinks this is a game?” She clenched her teeth.
“Precisely that, Galadriel. He feels satisfaction from this cat-mouse chase. He wants you to go after him.”
“I will find him, and I will rid the earth of him.”
“No, Galadriel. This is a trap, you need to cease your hunt for blood.” He coughed and groaned in pain.
“I will cease when he is gone.”
“Galadriel.” She looked away.
“You need to rest.” She threw some more wood into the fire, and turned away from Halbrand. She needed to process everything he had told her about, and he could do with some rest.
She hoped the new day would bring some clarity.