Part 12
You know a lot about dragons, said Legolas.
Yesdragons are a passion of mine, said Bors,
smiling.
They had been pushing the horses hard for almost an hour, and
had slowed to a walk to allow the animals a few minutes
rest.
It was my older brother who was destined for knighthood,
Bors continued. I was never much good with a sword
or a mace, but I can read, and reckon, and I have a good memory
for facts. Had my brother not died of the pestilence, and my
family not needed a representative at Uthers court
Uther?
King Uther Pendragon, my Lord,said Borsfor
he had begun to treat Legolas with the respect due to one of
superior standingPrince Arthurs father.
Your Lord is a prince?
Indeed, my Lord.
That explains it, said Legolas. He smiled. You
were saying?
Well, being at court has its benefits, said Bors.
As I said, I can read. And I have read treatises on alchemy,
astronomy, philosophy, and, of course, I have read bestiariesmany
bestiaries.
Then you will know the story of how Túrin Turambar
killed the dragon Glaurung, said Legolas.
Er... Glaurung? No, my Lord. No. In fact, I dont
believe Ive ever heard of a dragon called Glaurung.
Well, said Legolas, this story may be of
use to us.
One night, as the dragon was sleeping beside a deep gorgecalled
Cabed-en-Aras, the Deers Leap, because it was so narrowTúrin
Turambar climbed down into the ravine, planning to climb up
the other side, and take the beast by surprise.
But the dragon awoke. And, as it stretched its forequarters
over the gorge, and slowly hauled the rest of its bulk across,
Turambarthough he was still far belowhe saw his
chance. He climbed like a man possessed and, the moment he was
close enough, thrust his enchanted sword into the creatures
belly with all his strength.
And did the dragon die?
Eventually, said Legolas, sinceunder the circumstancesthe
rest of Turins story was of little comfort.
Do you plan to use the same tactic, my Lord?
I think it is certainly worth considering, replied
Legolas.
And do you actually have an enchanted sword, my
Lord? asked Bors.
Legolas laughed. I suspect that Prince Arthur greatly
underestimates your value, mellon nín, he said. Come,
let us ride on!
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