For the Love of a Maia

For the Love of a Maia
Chapter 6: The Rescue
A story by Sienna Dawn

Pairing: Haldir/OFC Heterosexual
Rating: NC17 for sexuality

Chapter 6 - The Rescue

They had ridden steadily south for two days, avoiding the Ouse Bridge at the city's boundaries, and crossing the wide river further south where two small washes joined into a rushing waterway. Though Ulric and Haldir had at least gained a two-day advantage over Anysse's traveling party, neither man or elf was willing to let unforeseen accidents nor events delay or detour them. They made certain to camp away from the small roads and pathways, breaking to let the horses rest during the daylight hours and traveling quietly under the cover of night.

Being a talkative and curious man by nature, Ulric had attempted to draw Haldir into conversation in the two days past. Usually, it was Ulric who initiated the talking, while Haldir listened quietly. The elf either nodded or answered with an "aye" or a "nay", never truly responding one way or another.

By listening to Ulric carefully, Haldir had come to realize the depth of the shame Ulric felt in stealing Anysse away, although it was a shame born more from aesthetic than practical reasons. Apparently, as Haldir learned from Ulric, it was common for women to be fought over in this world.

"Aye," Ulric had explained to Haldir, "of course," he added, chewing on some salted beef, "one must at least muster some two or three hundred horsemen and then there's the archers to be had -- best ones come from Wales," Ulric had missed Haldir's shocked expression. Splitting a leg bone of the roasted chicken they had cooked, Ulric sucked out the marrow. The elf had simply shaken his head and looked away, but he still listened to Ulric's narration.

"If the woman is high born, then there will be many offers made. 'Tis not always those with the highest rank that win the marriage contract. Sometimes, it is the knight with the greatest forces."

At this Haldir had turned to look to Ulric, "And love plays no part in it?" The elf's voice was soft and subdued.

Ulric shrugged, "In some rare cases, especially if the female is already widowed and has inherited, then she can be free to marry for her own reasons." Ulric's brown eyes lifted to meet Haldir's steady gaze. "I know this seems barbaric to you, Haldir," Ulric smiled, "but in fact, most high born marriages are made when both parties are quite young. The Lady Matilda, for instance," Ulric said, referring to Anysse's mother, "was but twelve when she wedded Lord Godfrey, and he was himself only seventeen."

Haldir saw Ulric looked at him with a satisfied grin. Haldir sighed, "It is a very strange thing to the elves, to arrange the marriage of their children. But," Haldir said thoughtfully, "elves are long-lived and perhaps this makes us overly cautious." He gave Ulric a kind look, hoping to end the conversation.

But that was not to be, for Ulric saw that as an opportunity to discuss Elyen.

"And you," asked Ulric, "what of you and Elyen? Will you wed when you leave the world?"

Haldir had looked over to Ulric, thinking how like and how unlike Faramir this man was. The Faramir of Gondor would have had the tact to not ask that particular question, and probably would have had the unique Numenorean gift of reading hearts and thus would have already known Haldir was bonded to Elyen. Yet, this man simply looked like the Faramir of old, and no more than that.

Haldir answered Ulric carefully for he had only met the man some days before. His own characteristic reserved disposition made it difficult to discuss his private life with even those he had known for generations, much less someone he had known for less than a week.

"Elyen and I have been together for many ages, though sundered for long, we are now rejoined." Haldir's calm gaze rested on Ulric's face and he saw the man's countenance light up with understanding.

"I am happy for this, Haldir." Ulric said earnestly. "She is a great lady and a good friend. I wish for her happiness."

Haldir had not responded but merely given the man a slow nod of the head.

This conversation had taken place two days before and now the man and the elf were camped nearly five leagues from the Ouse River, waiting for Anysse's party to arrive. The trees were thickest on the south side of the river, and the road was quiet and deserted. They had not seen a single traveler upon that road in two days.

While they waited, the man and the elf discussed their strategy.

"Shoot to bring down, not to kill, Haldir," Ulric had said, "I train with these men and some are good friends."

Haldir had agreed and in turn had given Ulric his own cloak. Ulric fingered the fine garment. "What do I do with it?"

"When we strike, you will have but one opportunity to take the Lady Anysse." Haldir explained. "With this cloak you will be but a shadow moving in the trees. Fold the Lady into your embrace and she too will seem to be but a swift moving mist."

Ulric had studied the cloak more closely. What men could do with such tools.

"And how will you take on the knights?" Ulric asked.

Haldir arched an eyebrow. "That will be my problem."

Ulric frowned at Haldir but had said nothing, draping the cloak around his shoulders and noticing the clasping pin drew the ends closed of its own power.

"A most elvish thing, indeed," Ulric murmured.

It was close to sunset at the end of the second day that they heard the steady thrum of many horses. Haldir leaned his ear close to the ground and listened.

"A company of nearly twenty horses, some heavily laden." He dropped to one knee upon the quiet road and narrowed his eyes upon it. "Ten, perhaps twelve leagues." He stood and looked at Ulric, "They will be here within two hours at the most."

Quickly they prepared their positions. Haldir had taken the horses deep into the woods and had softly spoken to them in his native Sindarin, calming the nervous beasts. Both served each steed some water and let them graze a little not wishing to burden them with a heavy stomach for the hard ride ahead. Then, with a gentle caress, Haldir had left both steeds, quietly returning to where Ulric hid.

Ulric was already watching the road from the cover of a wide elm as Haldir laid down his rope upon the ground and then looped it high on a nearby tree. With sunset fast approaching, Ulric noticed Haldir's body glowing in the twilight gloom. He had not seen this before, simply because he had never seen an elf in the dark before.

Ulric cleared his throat and saw Haldir pause at the other side of the narrow road. "Is there something amiss, Ulric of Ormsby?" Haldir asked.

"Well, since you ask," Ulric answered, swinging around to sit on a wide branch and staring in rapt fascination at the elf's gentle silver light. "You seem to be glowing like soft moonlight upon a frozen river."

Haldir did not respond to the comment the man made, but instead came under Ulric's tree and threw an arrow from his quiver toward the man. Deftly Ulric caught it and frowned at the elf. "Keep it, and if you or the lady is threatened, throw it -- it will know where to go."

Ulric gave the arrow a dubious glance and squirreled it away in the waistband of his leggings.

"Their horses are fresh, I can sense they wish to bolt and gallop at full. This will be an advantage." Haldir said after a while.

Watching Haldir stand in the middle of the road, Ulric thought the elf reminded him of a soft lantern glowing within a great darkness. Suddenly his heart felt sad that such creatures had abandoned the world that, by rights of creation and sacrifice, was theirs too. Ulric saw Haldir turn to look once more at him before bounding away and disappearing inside the forest.

From the deep green darkness came the elf's quiet voice, "Remember, Ulric, you have but one chance to take the maid. After that, at best, we have no more than minutes to flee. Remember where the horses lay waiting. Keep your wits about you, no matter what you see or hear!"

The steady pound of hoof beats stirred the quiet summer night and matched the pace of Ulric's heart. The sun had already set, but the sky was still ablaze with splashes of molten gold and burnt orange. Yet, dark night was already visible upon the eastern skies and the first stars were clearly breaking through. The deep wood was still, for no breeze stirred this night. Even the natural woodnotes of the forest were silent. Strangely, no owls hooted and not even the churr-churr of the nightjar was present.

"Now," whispered Haldir, "speak no more and when you see lights atop the dark woods, then know you have but once chance to act!"

Ulric frowned from his hiding place, wondering how Haldir was so certain the travelers would stop at this very precise spot.

He had not long to wait, for in seconds, as his eyes were attempting to adjust to the growing gloom, a horse suddenly whinnied and a loud crash followed.

Cries and shouts echoed from the road. Ulric was able to see the dark shapes of the knights of the Bold quickly dismounting their steeds and briskly running to the lead rider.

It was none other than Sir Hugh Malet.

The knight dusted himself and stood, glaring ahead of him and toward the sides of the forest. A young knight reached him first.

"Nay," Sir Hugh waved the knight off, "something tripped the steed." Behind Sir Hugh the entire troop had come to a halt. Ulric narrowed his eyes and strained to see Anysse but she was obviously too far back. He could not see her.

Ulric could see Sir Hugh walk around the front of his warhorse, inspecting its legs, raising its hooves, seemingly finding nothing. Then he drew his sword and called back, "Break, we make for camp here!" With the sword, he pointed toward Ulric's side of the road. "Three men to clear for camp, make a fire and settle to break our fast."

Ulric watched as three knights led their horses to the edge of the woods, very nearly beneath where Ulric hid. The beasts began to whinny and stir. But the knights paid the animals no heed as they felled several branches and began to do as instructed by Sir Hugh.

Walking back toward the long line of knights, now all dismounted, Sir Hugh was not happy to have stopped so close to the city boundaries. He knew rebels patrolled nearly all paths and roads of the north realms. That his experienced warhorse happened to stumble over some invisible stone did not sit well with him at all.

Briskly he approached four knights. "You!" He waved with his sword, "Set up watch there and there," he pointed in front and behind the road. "I want two watches set up there and there," and here he pointed to the edges of the road, one man at either side. "Decide amongst you who go will where and be quick about it. I have not a good feeling about this," he called, walking back toward his charge, his eyes canvassing the now dark woods.

In moments, he had reached his charge and he saw she still sat astride her horse.

"Well, my Lady," Sir Hugh began, "it seems we are making camp here this night." He reached out a gloved hand to help Anysse down.

Anysse frowned but said nothing as she accepted Sir Hugh's hand and jumped off the sidesaddle. She was familiar with horses and knew that these were still fresh and that at least another ten leagues or so could have been gained. Nevertheless, she did not wish to appear eager to reach the Priory -- nor disinterested, either. In fact, thought Anysse, that they had stopped so soon after crossing the Ouse was a thing that worked in her favor.

She removed her own gloves and turned to Sir Hugh, "Then where shall I place my sleeping roll, Sir Hugh?" Her dark eyes roved about the dark woods.

"In a moment we will have a place for you to rest and settle yourself, my Lady."

Anysse nodded and turned to watch the men working in the woods, though she could make out little in the darkness, she could hear the mashing and crashing of boughs as well as their murmurings, "Thank you, Sir Hugh. I will wait by my horse."

Sir Hugh bowed and waved to a knight. "Guard the Lady Anysse." He ordered and gave the knight a stern look. The youthful knight quickly covered the space between himself and the female.

Anysse sighed and leaned against her horse.

Half an hour later the knights had cleared a wide enough space within the wood so as to be safely away from the road itself, but not so far as to block their own escape should the need arise.

Torches had been lit and a small campfire blazed. Salted meats, breads, fish and fruit were all served to the Lady Anysse, with wine to wash it all down.

Anysse had sat alone, by herself, close to the fire, feeling frightened and disoriented but not daring to show any emotion. The men, who were not allowed familiarity with her, stayed far from her, most eating away from the light of the fire. The sentries were relieved so they too could eat and by the time the moon had risen, watches for the night were positioned.

Slowly Anysse packed up a few items and then doused a small face cloth with drinking water from a flagon she carried to wipe her face and neck. She needed to relieve herself and approached Sir Hugh about this. She was allowed to enter a little more deeply into the wood and a knight was stationed close by.

Ulric had been watching all of this with interest, looking toward the area where Anysse had disappeared, frowning after long moments passed and she did not come back. At length she did and Ulric let out the breath he had not realized he had been holding.

Beneath his high cover, he pulled the cloak even more tightly about him, knowing that to the men below he was nothing more than a soft shadow. His legs and arms ached but Ulric knew that one sound would betray the plan and foil them. So he held on quietly.

Close to what he judged to be midnight, Ulric heard a soft sound from the forest opposite him. His eyes flew to the top of the trees, remembering Haldir's words, but he saw nothing.

Yet, the sound came again, like the chirping of a cricket. Ulric looked down and saw that the sentries were already alert and looking up. His own eyes wondered down to where Anysse lay, but he did not see her stir and wondered if she was already asleep.

Then the soft sound changed and became a clacking, as if someone was hitting two pieces of wood together. Ulric grinned. Whatever the elf was up to, it was working. He looked down.

Two knights were skirting the edges of the wood where Haldir hid. They spoke amongst themselves, their long spears in their hands.

Haldir smiled as he looked at the Atani below him.

He remembered the ancient game he and his brothers had played when very little. The same principle would do nicely now, he thought.

He remembered well how the game worked: use the vines of plants to tie pieces of wood to arms and thighs. Then, jump as quickly as possible from limb to limb, alternating the height of the jump from tree to tree. Gathering speed as one went along, the idea was to clack noisily to frighten off anyone who might threaten to overtake you. It was a game that taught agility, speed and accuracy, and when played in groups, teamwork. Yes, thought Haldir, with a few alterations the elfling's game would do nicely.

The clacking became louder and some of the knights spoke in hushed tones amongst themselves. One could feel the tension within the ranks mounting.

Suddenly Sir Hugh's voice rang out, "Have you never heard the clack of a night owl?" He wrested a torch from one of the knights guarding the horses and bounded toward the other two who were still standing at the edge of the of wood, looking up. The entire camp fell silent and Ulric could see that now Anysse was stirring.

"That be no night owl, Sir Hugh." replied one of the two knights. "I know the sounds of 'em nightjars and their churrs, and this is not one of 'em."

Sir Hugh gave the man a withering look but he kept a cautious distance from the woods. Looking closer and listening, he convinced himself it was nothing more than an owl and he turned back to camp. He had only reached their side of the wood when a voice cried out.

"Dog's blood! Look at the trees!"

Sir Hugh whirled and his eyes flew to the top of the trees. He shook his head and frowned.

The two knights closest to the woods stepped a few feet back to get a better look above them and then staggered back, their mouths agape.

"'Tis the fairies!" came a shout.

"'Tis the Shining Fairy," one yelled, "'tis said she haunts the Dales and the Moors after Midsummer!"

"Nay, 'tis the ghosts of knights slain!" came another terrified voice.

Sir Hugh collected his wits and turned to face his men. "Tis neither fairies nor ghosts! Now, back to your posts or I shall have you all pilloried!" His loud voice rang out and he walked briskly back to camp, pushing a few knights back into place.

He had only taken a few strides when a loud crack rent the night and Sir Hugh was hoisted upside down high over the trees, his loud demands to be set free bouncing off the silent woods.

Chaos now reigned.

The knights ran without direction. Some ran to Sir Hugh, grasping his kicking feet and attempting to cut the strange rope that would not be cut, and which wound about his torso. Whenever they freed a part of his body, the rope simply coiled itself back around another part.

Some of the knights simply stared at the moving glow high above the trees, mesmerized by a light that seemed to increase speed until it was nothing more than a blurred single line of white light.

Many knights prayed and kneeled, asking for deliverance from this mighty magic upon which they had stumbled.

While the chaotic situation played out, a thunderous voice poured forth from the light, speaking in a strange language no one understood.

The knights, scared witless by now, cowered on the ground and covered their heads, while Sir Hugh was left to dangle shrieking curses at the punishments he would mete out.

Suddenly, a swift swoosh broke the chaos and all was silent. The cowering, screaming and praying ceased for a moment until it was obvious that the horses had broken their tethers and were stampeding toward the men.

Now the knights ran and dispersed into the woods, their shrieking and screaming softly dying away in the darkness.

Ulric turned his head and saw that Anysse was now standing quite alone, her eyes wide with terror and her feet seemingly bolted to the ground.

While Sir Hugh shrieked, Ulric made his move. Haldir had done better than he had hoped.

Quickly, Ulric descended from his tree, his arms and legs aching at first and he stiffly moved toward Anysse, passing by the red-faced Sir Hugh who was trying to sit up and break free of the rope.

Ulric had no idea when the severity of their actions would strike the knights. Desertion was akin to treason and Ulric knew that aside from superstitious nonsense, these men were otherwise courageous and brave in battle. Therefore, he had no idea how much time he had before they came to their senses and returned.

Slowly he approached Anysse. She stood, small and frightened, looking right past him. He hesitated. If he spoke to her, she might give the ruse away and say his name. Sir Hugh was too close. He should do as Haldir had said. Take the maiden, wrap her in his embrace within the elven cloak and head for their horses.

Quickly he moved toward Anysse, grasping her by the waist and opening a side of the cloak so she could see him. He heard her gasp and then shriek.

Nearby, Sir Hugh screamed, "Anysse!" He struggled to turn around, but the rope coiled even more tightly about him and he was paralyzed.

"Whatever or whoever you are," Sir Hugh called out, "know the maid is not defenseless. We shall find you. We shall destroy you!" Sir Hugh promised in a cold and quiet voice, his legs still kicking.

Anysse felt a warm breath on her neck and a strong grasp at her waist. She had seen the lights of the forest and heard the booming voice command the horses to stampede. Terrified, unable to move, her head had turned just in time to see a large shadow lunge at her and then she knew no more. Her fear and terror had overcome her and she had fainted straight into Ulric's arms.

Ulric picked Anysse up, unable to completely conceal her with the cloak and he moved quickly back across the road, to Haldir's side, to where their horses waited. Within a moment, he saw Haldir drop from the high branches, his silver eyes taking in the still maiden in Ulric's arms.

They reached their horses, just as they began to hear movement in the deep woods.

"They are returning, Haldir!" Ulric breathed.

"We must fly!" Haldir exclaimed and jumped on his steed. "Give me the maiden, for I am the lighter and her weight will be less for the animal."

Carefully, Ulric placed Anysse in Haldir's arms and then the elf spoke to the horse. Quietly the horse turned deeper into the wood, followed by a tense Ulric who remembered he still had the arrow Haldir had given him. Quietly they urged their horses south, parallel to the road, until half a league later, when Haldir turned to Ulric.

"We must make for the open road now, Ulric!"

"Aye!" Ulric agreed and urged his steed past Haldir's horse. Now, their aim was to follow the road and take the fork toward the River Aire and then, as Elyen had said, double back and cross the Wharfe toward Anstig Mote.

"By now they know the Lady Anysse has been taken. They will be riding hard north and south of this road." Ulric turned quickly to look back down the dark road. "Haldir, what do your elven eyes see?"

Haldir turned to look back and saw the camp, still in chaos, Sir Hugh still dangling from the tree. "It is still well, they are still stunned." He grinned and looked at Ulric, his gentle light cutting through the night, "for now." He added

But before Haldir returned to his waiting steed, he selected a wide branch from a tree and broke it off, murmuring soft words to the tree which Ulric could not decipher. He then came round to the back of Ulric's horse and began to tie the branch securely behind the saddle.

"What are you doing?" Ulric asked, watching Haldir carefully, holding his horse's reins tightly. He glanced at Haldir's steed, which quietly waited and saw Anysse carefully draped sideways over the horse. Ulric grinned. She would scratch his eyes out had she but known what lay ahead for her. He turned his eyes back to Haldir at the sound of the elf's voice.

"I am making it harder for them to track us." Finished, Haldir returned to his steed and gingerly jumped on it, swinging Anysse's still form around in front of him, gently placing her head against his shoulder.

"Ready?" Haldir asked Ulric.

"Aye!" Ulric answered, spurring his steed forward.

Ulric took the lead in a few moments, knowing these woods well, having come here to hunt and ride as a young boy. He counted the fork in the road to be another two leagues away.

A few moments later Haldir felt the maiden in his arms stir and his silver eyes turned down to look at her. Turning to look behind him, he still saw no sign of pursuit.

"Ulric," Haldir called.

"Aye!" Ulric called back.

"The lady stirs," Haldir said, "It would be best if you were to be the first sight she beholds."

Ulric brought his horse to a stop and Haldir did likewise.

Dismounting quickly, for this was precious time they spared; Ulric took Anysse from Haldir's arms. The young woman was now able to stand with assistance and a small moan escaped her lips.

Her eyes opened and she gasped her eyes still unfocused. She felt a pair of strong hands holding her arms, she could smell the aroma of spice and wine, and she thought it was a familiar scent. Yet, her last memory came back to haunt her, the giant shadow before her and suddenly Anysse fought Ulric with all of her strength.

"Let me go!" She twisted in Ulric's arms, as Ulric struggled to keep her from bolting away. "Let me go!" she repeated, this time in a near-scream.

"Anysse!" Ulric called her name trying to catch her wild-eyed gaze. "Anysse!" However, she struggled hard and tried to kick Ulric.

Finally, Ulric realized they could waste no more time and he picked her up from the waist and began to hoist the screaming girl to his waiting horse.

"Easy, Ulric," Haldir cautioned, "you may injure the girl or she may frighten the horse and it may bolt." Haldir turned and fetched the bottle of miruvor. Opening it, he handed the flask to Ulric. " 'Tis miruvor. Give her but a small sip of this. It will revive her."

Gratefully, Ulric accepted the flask and brought it to Anysse's mouth, "Here, my heart," he said, "drink this."

Anysse had not yet fully realized what had happened and she knocked the flask away from her mouth, "Nay, nay!" she yelled, "I'll not drink your vile poisons!"

Ulric gave the flask back to Haldir and turned Anysse around toward his body. They were wasting precious time. Anysse seemed to be in some sort of mind fever.

"Anysse, by all that is holy, awaken!" He shook her and yelled at her himself, "'Tis Ulric! Ulric! Did you not want me to come for you?"

Haldir sat back on his steed and crossed his arms, his eyes lifting to the road. The Atani were still trying to get Sir Hugh loose and rounding up the horses.

"We have little time for this, Ulric." Haldir gently reminded the man.

Slowly, Ulric's name seemed to clear a path within Anysse's terror-filled mind and she stilled, dropping her head and then lifting her face to Ulric.

"Ulric?" she softly asked, "Ulric?"

Ulric smiled in relief, "Aye, Ulric." he answered, "I've come for you." He saw confusion blanket Anysse's face.

"But," she quietly asked, "how?" She watched Ulric's face very carefully. He was only inches away from her.

"We have little time for explanations right now, sweet-heart." Ulric answered. He turned to Haldir, "The miruvor?" He took it from Haldir's hand.

"Take a sip of this, Anysse." He held the open flask to her lips.

Anysse sniffed it carefully. It smelled of sweet herbs and clean water, "What is it?"

"A wine to revive you." Ulric answered, "hurry now, for we must fly."

Anysse took a small sip of the drink and felt at once refreshed and strong. The liquid warmed her stomach like the spiced wine her father made in the winter. This drink also gave her strength and energy. She saw Ulric take a small sip himself before returning it to Haldir.

It was then, when Anysse turned, that she saw Haldir.

She stopped frozen in mid movement, her eyes flying to Ulric. "Why, by the angels, Ulric!" she hissed at him, "he is glowing!"

Ulric grimaced, "Aye, but we have no time for this now, Anysse. You must ride with Haldir and we must make for the Aire afore sunrise!"

Anysse whirled and glared at Ulric, "Think you I will ride with a strange man!" Her eyes went to Haldir who watched her with a grim expression. "Or whatever he may be."

Ulric sighed, "Anysse, we have no time for this! Either you ride with Haldir or you walk back by yourself!" His eyes glowered at the young girl.

Haldir arched an eyebrow, turning to look at Anysse.

With a loud harrumph, Anysse walked toward Haldir's horse and stopped. She turned to Ulric.

"There are no reins or stirrups on this animal!" She looked back at Haldir. "How am I supposed to ride?" She crossed her arms.

"Haldir rides with no saddle," Ulric explained, seeing the shocked expression on Anysse's face. "Come, I will help you sit the animal and you will ride in front of Haldir."

Ulric reached for Anysse.

"Ride bareback?" She exclaimed.

Ulric was tired of arguing and merely gave her a look that silenced her. Pliantly, she allowed herself to be hoisted onto the large steed and then placed in front of Haldir. She noticed he exuded a pleasant scent, different from Ulric. It reminded her of waterfalls and spring rain.

She felt Haldir's hand cover and guide hers to the horse's mane. "If you hold here gently, he will not mind." The soft voice whispered behind her and despite herself, Anysse shivered from the effect Haldir's voice had on her. She looked down and saw her hand darkened in the shadows of the night but Haldir's faintly glowing as if lit by a soft inner fire. She nodded and grasped the horse's mane lightly.

Turning her head to her left, she saw Ulric jump onto his horse and pull the reins. She wondered why she had been made to ride with the stranger. At least Ulric had a saddle, she thought in frustration, disliking the nearness of Haldir's body.

Behind her, she felt Haldir's legs move against horse's flank, and then felt his strong hands come around and grasp her waist. She puckered her mouth in distaste, stiffly staring straight ahead.

In moments, the man and the elf urged their horses to full gallop.

~*~*~*~*~

By the time the Moon was half way through her course in the sky, the riders had reached the River Aire.

Carefully they wound their horses down to the shallowest end, mindful of the dark looming forests before and behind them. At Haldir's suggestion, they rode their horses downstream for about a league in order to delay trackers and their hounds. Ulric had briefly dismounted and discarded the tree branch attached to the rear of his horse that they had used to destroy their tracks.

The scent of the clear river water was strong and pungent, and its steady rippling mingled with the splashing trot of the quiet steeds. The sounds of the woods had picked up now and Anysse was able to hear the hoot owl and the nightjar rivaling one another. Crickets and other insects buzzed and chirped. The wind, when it blew, blew warm with a promise of early frost even in June. Above them, the velvet blue of the night sky was speckled with hundreds of stars and the waxing Moon's glow cast a lingering and distorted shadow upon everything it touched.

To Anysse this night did not seem real. She had prayed for so long, that a night like this would be hers. Here it was, and all she could think of was her sister. What would they do to Meli? Why had she not thought of that before? Shaking her head, and aware of the strong and quiet presence behind her, Anysse took a deep breath and said nothing. Indeed, she had not spoken once throughout the long journey. She was not tired, but her legs ached, unaccustomed as she was to riding astride a horse and she worried her legs may not hold her once she dismounted.

They had stopped for neither drink nor food, instead pushing on for the safety of the northern lands close to the River Wharfe, which was another ten leagues or so ahead of them. Once across the Wharfe, Ulric knew their safety would be better guaranteed. Very few would trespass on the lands of the Earls of Anstig. Almost certainly, they would be stopped at least a league or two past the river. It was what he was counting on.

Ulric leaned down and patted his horse's neck and then looked back to Haldir's steed. "The horses, Haldir" he turned, "they are sweating. We must give them rest!"

Haldir knew Ulric was right. These were no elven steeds that could gallop at full speed for dozens of leagues. "Aye," he agreed, canvassing the northern banks of the Aire. "We stop and rest for a half hour, no more." He felt Anysse relax in his arms. She had been stiff and quiet throughout the entire ride and he was thankful that the woman had not been difficult. Actually, he mused, as he visually inspected the area, he was very surprised at Anysse's docility.

Guiding his horse out of the water, Haldir made for a tight grove of ivy and skillfully dodged the low-hanging vines, pushing Anysse's head down as well. He could hear Ulric's steed panting behind him.

Once they had gained the deepest part of the grove, Haldir stopped his steed and dismounted, extending his hand for Anysse.

Taking Haldir's hand, Anysse felt herself pulled off the horse's back as if she were made of nothing but light and air. Startled, she struggled to keep her balance upon the hard ground and found that Haldir had placed a strong hand on her back and was looking down at her with a concerned expression.

She had not realized until that moment how tall and blonde he was.

Ulric came 'round just then, interrupting Anysse's inspection of Haldir and he dismounted quickly, walking to where Anysse stood.

"Try to take a few steps," Ulric suggested, knowing Anysse was not used to hard riding.

Anysse put one hand on her belly and took a careful step forward. Her knees buckled and Ulric made a move toward her, but she stayed him. "No."

Haldir watched but for a moment and then turned to his provisions bag. There he fished out some more of the miruvor, the cheese Orophin had packed for him and some of the fresh fruit he had gathered himself on the night he and Ulric departed Rowan Bold. He had packed a flagon of fresh water for them and the horses and he now fashioned a drinking gourd out of some large tree fronds and poured out water for the animals to drink. Once he was done with the horses, he turned back to their food.

Leaning against a small aspen sapling, Haldir unsheathed one of his short knives and began to slice the cheese, watching the two humans.

"My legs ache, Ulric," Anysse complained without bitterness. She raised her head and in the darkness was able to see his shadowy form. "I suppose we cannot risk a small fire? 'Tis uncommon cold for June."

Ulric turned to Haldir and saw the elf shake his head. "Nay, Anysse, we cannot risk it. But I shall give you this cloak and it will keep you warm."

Unclasping Haldir's cloak from about his shoulders, Ulric came toward Anysse and gently draped it about her small body, letting the silver clasp close itself tightly. His hands rested slightly on Anysse's shoulders and he looked quietly into her eyes.

"Why?" Was all she asked.

Ulric frowned, letting his hands drop from her body just in time to see Haldir approach with the silver flask of miruvor and a slice of cheese. Taking the flask, he offered it first to Anysse and then took a small sip for himself before returning it to the elf. The slice of cheese Haldir had given him was large enough for three people and he broke it into two pieces and offered one to Anysse.

At first, she shook her head.

"Take it, sweetheart," Ulric said, unaware he had used the endearment. "You will need strength, Anysse."

The girl then took the cheese and bit into it, gazing at it and chewing carefully. "Never have I tasted anything as delicious as this." She turned her gaze to Haldir and saw the elf had positioned himself at the edge of the thick grove, as if watching and listening.

"Ulric," Anysse turned away from Haldir, "why did you come for me? Did my Lord Father command it?"

Ulric shook his head, wondering just how much to tell her, how much was safe to tell her. Instead, he asked her, "What were you going to do if you had reached the Priory?" He guided her away from the horses and made her walk so her muscles would not later contract in painful spasms.

Before she could answer, they heard Haldir's quiet voice from the dark, "Stay within the perimeter, Ulric. We are safe within the circle of twenty feet and no more."

Ulric wondered how Haldir knew this, but also knew not to question a wood-elf, so he nodded knowing Haldir could see quite well in the dark.

Anysse took another bite of the tangy cheese, "Nay, I was not going to wait to reach the Priory." She answered his earlier question.

Ulric turned to her, "Then what?"

Anysse shrugged, "It matters not now, of course," she began, "but my plan was to slip away unnoticed and head to Baldric's lands."

Ulric stopped walking and stared at Anysse, a small smile crossing his face. Watching her determined expression, he realized she had fully believed she would have been able to give Hugh Malet the slip. However, he decided to not challenge her belief now and let her speak unimpeded.

"After that," Anysse shrugged, "I know not." Her dark eyes rose to Ulric's face. "Since I have no troth, I am free."

Ulric looked down at Anysse but did not respond to her jibe.

Abruptly, Anysse turned and faced Ulric. "Ulric," she began very seriously, "you know I am no fool. Why did you take me from Sir Hugh? Why are we in flight now, as if we had committed some great wrong? And where are we headed?"

"I cannot tell you much," Ulric began and waved her off when he saw her put her hands on her hips. "But I can say this: Almeric Atteford desires your father's lands and the dowry you bring."

Anysse simply stared at Ulric, "Think you I did not know this?" She said in disbelief. She shook her head slowly. "I have long known this. Not only does he desire father's lands, but father's estates and titles and probably will not give his fealty to King Henry either, if you really care to know what I think."

Ulric gazed at Anysse in shocked amazement and then turned to Haldir. The elf stood quietly staring into the dark forest, but he turned his head when Ulric looked in his direction, yet said nothing.

"Do not look at him!" Anysse exclaimed in annoyance, "Tell me if this is so or not!"

Ulric turned to look at Anysse."Aye. Most of what you say is true, though no one knows for sure where Almeric's true allegiance lies."

Anysse snorted, "He does not know the meaning of the word."

"It is believed he has annexed lands south of his own realms and has kept this hidden from the King. Marriage to you would bring in the northern gates and with it the northern barons, or so he hopes.Since Wyat has no control over York yet, Almeric hopes that by wedding you his task will be the easier. No doubt, he planned for Lord Godfrey and Wyat to suffer some sort of 'accident', leaving you as sole heir, and by marriage, himself, lord and master of York and its shires."

Anysse shuddered at Ulric's words. "No doubt he'd see it all through and perhaps even find himself widowed and without issue not long after."

Ulric nodded, "Perhaps."

"And so you take me where?" Anysse asked.

"Anstig Mote," Ulric replied.

Anysse's eyes opened wide, "Anstig Mote? Your uncle's castle?"

Ulric nodded.

Anysse pondered this information for a moment. "Then Almeric will lay siege to York, Ulric, to get me back."

Ulric was momentarily paralyzed. Should he tell her all?

Haldir's voice decided the issue.

"Tell her," was all Haldir said.

Anysse looked toward the elf who was still watching the woods and then back to Ulric. "Tell me what?" she demanded.

"Almeric will not lay siege to Rowan Bold or York if you are married to someone else."

Anysse did not respond at first, uncertain she had heard Ulric correctly. At length, she drew a deep breath and placed a hand on her stomach, turning partly away from Ulric.

"I needs must marry someone else?" She turned to gaze at Ulric in the dark.

"Aye," he said, "you must."

Ulric did not see the expression of suspicion in Anysse's eyes but he heard it in her voice and was not surprised for it.

"And who might this Earl or Baron be?" Anysse asked Ulric carefully. She thought she was beginning to understand. "It shall be one of those doddering bastards of Henry, will it not? One of those dribbling half-fools who can command a cavalry of a thousand riders and rise up all of the northern lords. Some half-wit who...who..." she stopped for her voice broke and she turned away from Ulric, desperately thinking of a way to escape these two. She had been taken from one nightmare into another and she was running out of alternatives!

Compassion suddenly welled up within Ulric and that combined with his love and longing for Anysse, caused him to exclaim, "Nay, love, not to any of those old doddering uncles of the King's!" He gathered her into his arms and put his chin atop her head.

"Nay, love," he whispered, "not to anyone, save myself."

Haldir smiled and took a step into the forest, losing himself in the darkness, his own longing for Elyen mingled with worry. He walked a few paces away from the couple to give them a fleeting moment of privacy. Fleeting it would be for their time was nearly over.

Anysse frowned for a moment. Had she heard Ulric correctly say he wished to wed her? She stepped out of his embrace.

"I am confused, Sir," she said haughtily. "I thought thee betrothed to the Lady Elyen of York." Her voice was slightly defiant, hiding the hurt she felt. Was Ulric trying to mock her?

Ulric shook his head and tried to bring Anysse into his arms once more, but she resisted.

"Nay, love," he began, "Elyen is betrothed to Haldir." His eyes roved about her face, marked by the contrasting shadows of the woods.

"Haldir?" Anysse said, perplexed, "nay, I do not believe you. You say this only to confuse me and force me to accept your plots. I will not be lead into the noose as easily as that, Ulric of Ormsby!"

She turned from Ulric but then had a thought and faced him once more. "And know you this...both of you," she called out for Haldir's benefit, though she could see him not, "I will try to escape you as often and however I can!"

Ulric was about to comment on the threat she issued, but Haldir suddenly appeared and whispered, "Three riders, six leagues south. We must leave now!"

He strode quickly toward the horses and jumped on his own steed, giving Anysse a tug, which propelled her onto the animal's back, firmly seated before him.

"Hold on tightly, Lady Anysse," she heard him whisper into her ear, "For riders come with deadly intent!"

She nodded silently, fear coursing through her veins like ice water. She would have to entrust herself to these two until this nightmare was over and she had the time to think clearly.

Ulric already was seated on his steed with a wide frond attached to the rear of his horse.

With care, they brought their horses from the deep wood and carefully followed the river northward until Haldir motioned for them to cross.

Then did they give their steeds' full rein to gallop at top speed, while sunrise was but a couple of hours away.

Haldir hoped they would make it to Ulric's ancestral lands before the sun rose for he suspected that the riders had fresh horses with them. If so, then the riders would soon overtake them.

Looking toward the still-dark sky, Haldir said a small prayer to Varda and hoped all would go well. He had no doubt he could easily take down three Atani, but he was loath to shed blood at any cost. Already he had seen too much blood lust in his long life.

Looking behind him, he could make out the small forms of the human riders, now some five leagues away.

"Noro lim, Ulric! Noro lim!" He exclaimed.

~*~*~*~*~

Key:

Noro lim, Ulric! Noro lim! = Ride fast/hard, Ulric! Ride fast/hard!

Miruvor = The Cordial of Imladris. Clear and colorless liquid that bestows strength and energy.

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Disclaimer: All familiar characters are owned by JRR Tolkien and are used without permission. No monies are being made from this work.
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