The Hunt

Act II

Act II

The Escape of Gollum

Chapter 12: Through Shadows of the Woodland Realm

The company had long since escaped the eerie grasp of the Dead Marshes, their haunting lights now a distant memory. They had successfully captured Gollum, a wretched creature who had information of the one ring, and now they were making their way towards the halls of Thranduil. The decision was made to follow the path close to the River Anduin, which would lead them safely to Mirkwood. They consciously avoided the dark expanse of Rhovanion, or Wilderland, aware of the lurking dangers it held.

Legolas did not need to remind Aragorn of the perils of passing through Rhovanion. Aragorn knew all too well the risks posed by Dol Guldur, one of Sauron's strongholds. Though Sauron had moved his base of power to Mordor, Dol Guldur was not abandoned. The fortress was being rebuilt under the command of Khamûl, the second chief of the Nazgûl, along with two other Nazgûl, steadily amassing their dark forces.

Legolas was intimately familiar with these threats. As a prince of the Woodland Realm, he had often faced the dark legions spilling from Dol Guldur. His patrols along Mirkwood's borders frequently clashed with orc forces attempting to infiltrate the forest. The once-green woodlands had become a battleground, shadows encroaching upon the natural beauty of his homeland. The encroaching darkness was a daily reminder of the ongoing war against evil.

The Woodland Realm, unlike Lothlórien, did not have the protection of an Elven Ring. Galadriel's Nenya provided a barrier that even Sauron's forces could not easily breach. Thranduil, however, relied on the valor and vigilance of his people to defend their home. The constant threat had forced the Woodland Elves to retreat into the safety of their underground halls, emerging only when necessary to repel invaders.

Legolas's personal history was marked by loss and resilience. After his mother's death, Thranduil became fiercely protective, fearing to lose his son as well. Initially, this manifested as a desire to keep Legolas close, confined within the halls of Mirkwood. However, recognizing his son's spirit and skill, Thranduil eventually allowed him to take up the mantle of a warrior. Legolas proved himself on many occasions, riding out to patrol the borders and engage the enemy, earning the respect and admiration of his kin.

Despite the shadows that lingered over their relationship, the Battle of the Five Armies brought father and son to a new understanding. Thranduil, having seen the valor and leadership in his son, began to accept Legolas's role as a warrior. This reconciliation, though incomplete, laid the groundwork for a renewed bond. Thranduil had lost his heir but found a capable and courageous son willing to fight for their people.

Now, Legolas led the company with a determined stride, despite his injuries. His shoulder still ached from the dislocation, and his leg throbbed with each step, but he did not waver. He navigated the dense forest paths with a skill honed from years of experience, avoiding areas known to be haunted by orc patrols or other dangers. His sharp eyes scanned the surroundings constantly, ensuring they stayed on the safest route.

Aragorn walked with Gollum in tow, the creature bound but still muttering and hissing in his own guttural language. Every so often, Aragorn would tighten his grip on the rope, ensuring Gollum did not try to slip away. The ranger's senses were on high alert, his mind always calculating the best way to keep his company safe while managing their volatile prisoner.

Elladan and Elrohir walked close behind, their elven senses keenly attuned to the forest. They were aware of the potential dangers lurking nearby and ready to respond at a moment's notice. Elenion, despite his weariness, kept pace, his earlier mistakes and frustrations now replaced with a determined resolve to prove his worth.