"Although Balrogs have rarely been seen since the First Age, they were never written off as extinct," Augruc recalled. "And this looks EXACTLY like what one might do to its prey. Not intent of consuming the flesh; just pure bloodlust."

"What can we do?" Kushana asked.

"That's the real question," said Grizgad, "To my knowledge, Balrogs have never been spotted outside of Middle-Earth. How one could get here is more unsettling."

"In any event stay close, as need each other for protection."

"Oh, you need not worry about that," said Augruc, wrapping an arm around Grizgad's waist. Evidently, this was meant to be a mother-daughter getaway.

They smiled and made their way further inside.

The village had expanded quite a bit ever since Nausicaa assumed the throne, though it still did not utilize electricity or other conventional means of power.

When they made their back indoors, the Uruk-hai got a good look at the royal family.

Nausicaa, Asbel, and Kushana had seven children born between them, as well as a handful of wards.

"How are you all doing, dears?"