A/N: ASDFGJGD I had an authors note all written out and it got deleted ffs. In summary, sorry for the two week hiatus but enjoy this chapter. This one is still a bit filler-y but I think it's good to show both perspectives.
Thanks to the people who follow and favourite: XxNaiXx, NightWing101, MaryElisabeth, wweharry pottertwilight fan. Also to the abundant amount of reviews I got, is much appreciated! You guys rock.
: I know, I honestly love writing their scenes together! That's why I couldn't bear to kill him off. Ah but Legolas is an unexperienced warrior in the battle of love. So it'll take him some time.
cardcaptor-kanna: For the end of the world and dominion of ME probably XD
d'elfe: No problem! Sorry to keep you waiting for long this time round, oh don't worry he will eventually... The dancing shall continue, stay tuned.
yasminasfeir1: GAH'DAMN LEGOLAS! GET YO SHIT TOGETHER. haha enjoy!
blasttyrant: my sentiments exactly.
Thatonesuperwholockedgirl: An award to Gimli for the most oblivious dwarf of ME. Gimli is the mastermind of more interruptions which you shall see. Thanks for loving my writing and all the support! Hope you like this one.
- Angels and Douchebags.
"You're sure you are fine?" Eowyn checked as they walked through the Golden Hall which was buzzing with activity.
Yes, yes. Stop your fretting. Thariya pushed her hands away.
"So you saw Frodo?" Eowyn asked.
Yes. Now I know he is alive, I must tell Gandalf when they get back. Thariya said excitedly.
Now what do we need to do, for the feast? Thariya asked.
"First I need to visit the people in their huts, ensure everyone had enough provisions, medical attention and food." Eowyn stated.
Okay I can help with the medical attention. Thariya said.
What else?
"Then I need to give the orders to the cooks for the menu for the feast, ensure there is enough wine for all and that chambers are ready for out extra guests." Eowyn checked things off her fingers.
When will they be back?
"There is no telling. I would say if they ride steadily, by tomorrow evening." Eowyn guessed.
"But with Gandalf on their side, maybe even quicker." Eowyn supposed.
Alright. I will go to the infirmary, you take care of the provisions. Thariya said as she was about to leave.
"Are you ordering the caretaker of Rohan?" Eowyn raised an eyebrow, jesting.
Yes. Now go. She deadpanned with a grin.
...
"You've had that sour look plastered on your face the whole ride here." Gimli chortled, glancing at Legolas.
The elf was usually so adept at concealing his emotions, but his lack of confidence and success with Thariya had thrown the elf in turmoil even as he knew he had bigger things to concern himself with.
"I think I could do with some more of that salted pork." Pippin let out a loud belch, winking back at Gimli causing Merry to suppress his laughter.
This brought a small smile to Legolas' face, who was riding with Gimli as their horses waded through the water. Pippin was settled onto Shadowfax behind Gandalf, whilst Merry was fairly relaxed behind Aragorn. The companions together with King Theoden approached the tall tower of Orthanc, dark clouds looming over.
"Young master Gandalf, I am glad you have come. Wood and water, stock and stone I can master, but there is a Wizard to manage here looked in his tower." Treebeard's voice greeted four horsemen.
Seven pairs of eyes directed their attention to the top of the tower, looking for the White Wizard himself. Legolas scanned the top, his eyes the most keen detecting movement. His mind thought back to what Thariya had said, Saruman was interested in the Nauth Herdir, acting co-dependently with the Dark Lord. They had to be careful to not give away her position, but ascertain his intentions for her.
"Be careful. Even in defeat, Saruman is dangerous." Gandalf warned as his horse nickered uncomfortably.
"Well then lets just have his head and be done with it." Gimli grumbled impatiently. Legolas grunted his agreement with the dwarf, not liking the fact he had cowered in his tower.
"No we need him alive. We need him to talk." Gandalf silenced him.
"You have fought many wars and slain many men Theoden King and made peace afterwards. Can we not take counsel together as we once did, my old friend? Can we not have peace you and I?" Saruman addressed the King with a calm demeanour.
"We shall have peace." Theoden muttered after some time.
"We shall have peace when you answer for the burning of the Westfold and the children that lie dead there! We shall have peace when the lives of the soldiers whose bodies were hewn even as they lay dead against the gates of the Hornburg are avenged! When you hang from a gibbet for the sport of your own crows, we shall have peace!" The King of Rohan finished passionately.
"Gibbets and crows! What do you want Gandalf Greyhame? Let me guess the key of Orthanc? Or perhaps the keys of Barad Dur itself? Along with the crowns of the seven Kings and rods of the Five Wizards!" Saruman spat our venomously.
"Your treachery has already cost many lives. Thousands more are now at risk. But you could save them Saruman. You were deep in the enemy's counsel." Gandalf answered calmly.
"So you have come here for information. I have some for you." Saruman held up the Palantir for the companions below to see.
"Something festers in the heart of Middle Earth. Something you have failed to see. The girl." Saruman snarled. Legolas felt a jolt inside his chest upon seeing Thariya's smiling face fill the Palantir from the top of the tower.
"Oh yes, I know of the Nauth Herdir." Saruman confirmed, smiling at the worried faces of the companions.
"You would have her hide away her abilities, lock her away from the world. When she has so much power coursing through her veins." Saruman complained.
"Thariya is powerful there is no doubt. But her power represents all that is good, she will not be corrupted by the likes of you or the one you serve." Gandalf said sternly.
Legolas was feeling increasingly anxious, he could feel the anger growing within him, a glare he fixated on the wizard cowering in his tower.
"There is a darkness also. A powerful, hungry darkness lurking within her. The great eye has seen it! I have seen what he intends to do to her. Even now he presses his advantage. His attack will come soon." Saruman sighed toothily causing waves of panic over Legolas. Aragorn looked at the usually composed elf, and he detected an emotion from him he had never seen. Fear.
"You are all going to die! You cannot think this Ranger will ever sit upon the throne of Gondor. This exile, crept from the shadows will never be crowned king." The White Wizard looked at Aragorn in disgust.
"Gandalf does not hesitate to sacrifice those who are closest to him, those he professes to love! Tell me, what words of comfort did you give the Halfling before you sent him to his doom? The path that you have set him on can only lead to death." Saruman snarled.
"Oh what's this?" Saruman looked towards Legolas, who did not hide his emotions.
"Do not tell me the elf has fallen in love with the Nauth Herdir? My how the mighty Sindarin Elves have fallen!" Saruman laughed gleefully. Gandalf gave a side glance to Legolas worriedly, as the elf in question directed his anger to the wizard.
"I am sure King Thranduil will be pleased that Legolas Thranduillion will bring home a human as a wife!" Saruman mocked.
"The Dark Lord
Legolas reached for an arrow from the quiver with incredible speed and notched it in his bow, aiming straight for the wizard. His blue orbs were furious as he pulled the string taut, ready to release at a moment's notice. Legolas was pleased to detect a sliver of fear in the Wizard's eyes at the elf's fury.
"No Legolas. We need him." Gandalf urged.
"Come down Saruman and your life will be spared." Gandalf spoke diplomatically.
"Lad, put the arrow down." Gimli nudged him gently as Legolas lowered his bow.
"Save your pity and your mercy. I have no use for it!" He shot a bolt of fire which seemed to engulf Gandalf, but he emerged unharmed. Gandalf having had enough of games, raised his staff in the air.
"Saruman, your staff is broken." The staff grew hot and shattered, causing the White Wizard to stumble back. Another smaller figure emerged from behind the wizard, immediately recognised by Theoden.
"Grima! You need not follow him! You were once a man of Rohan." Theoden urged him. Grima Wormtongue was internally conflicted, his eyes looking longingly down below.
"A man of Rohan? The victory at Helms Deep does not belong to you Theoden Horse Master. You are a lesser son of greater sires!" Saruman sneered.
"Grima, come down. Be free of him." Theoden ignored his taunts.
"Free? He will never be free!" Saruman exclaimed, slapping Grima to the ground.
"Saruman. You were deep in the enemy's counsel. Tell us what you know." Gandalf stated trying to focus on the task.
"You withdraw your guard and I will tell you where your doom will be decided. I will not be held prisoner here!" Saruman said.
Grima rose up behind the Wizard and furiously attacked him with the knife in the back. Legolas with his anger subsiding, immediately sprung into action shooting arrows into the heart of the man. The White Wizard falls the great height of the Orthanc and is impaled on a large spike on a wheel.
"Send word to all our allies and to every corner of Middle Earth that still stands free. The enemy moves against us. We need to know where he will strike." Gandalf instructed to companions.
"We must ride to Edoras. We must warn Thariya."
...
What seems to be the matter? Thariya bent over the bed of a small child, shuddering. The forehead of the young boy were dripping with sweat, he was shivering and groaning from the pain.
"It started in the caves and only worsened on our journey back." The mother wiped her forehead worriedly as she stood next to the Nauth Herdir.
What's his name? She looked up at the mother.
"Eothed." The mother replied anxiously.
Eothed. Eothed, can you hear me? Thariya asked tentatively. There was no response from the boy, but his eyes which fluttered. Thariya touched his forehead.
He has a high fever. She said.
We must try to cool him down. She gestured for the mother to come beside her. They began cooling linens in cold water and dabbing it all over the boy's body. She left the mother to work as she placed a hand hovering over his forehead, closing her eyes.
Eothed. She whispered, allowing the energy to touch his mind. She found her consciousness inside the boy's mind, everything on high alert and frantic. No wonder the boy could not summon a response to her.
Calm. Ease yourself. You need to heal. She allowed the warm energy to flow through her fingers. A golden glow emitted from her hand and directly into the head of the boy. The mother stopped in shock, watching the woman heal her son. The energy, soothed and calmed his mind as he stopped groaning. His shivering reduced significantly and his mouth closed.
Thariya let out a deep breath, the sudden flourish of energy exhausting her as she opened her eyes. She felt the boy's head again, which was now significantly cooler.
Eothed. Thariya beckoned the boy again, as he stirred in his sleep.
Who are you? A-are you going to hurt me? The frightened voice echoed in her mind. Thariya sighed in relief, a smile etched on her tired face.
No Eothed. I am here with your mother, you are going to be fine. Rest now. She said sympathetically squeezing his hand, as she noticed the boy relax.
Thariya brushed her hands, on the dress Eowyn had convinced her to wear. She stood up tugging at the tightness of the gown around her midsection. The last week or so spent at Rohan meant they had recieved regular meals, and as a result of her training and good eating Thariya had gained weight.
Her tunics were all dirty and messy from the battle, which Eowyn had snuck into washing leaving her with only gowns to wear. She pulled the shoulder of the dress over, as the neckline was deeper than she had expected.
Eothed, will be just fine. He needs proper rest, food and water. Thariya smiled reassuringly at the mother.
"Oh thank you my lady!" The mother pulled Thariya into an unexpected hug.
Your welcome. Do not hesitate to approach me if you need more help. Thariya made for the door of the hut.
She left the hut and stretched her arms, pleased to see Edoras busy and full of life. She smiled at the fact, the battle had not dampened the spirits of the Rohirrim. Whist many had lost husbands, fathers and brothers, they endured the hard work set to restoring the kingdom.
She had finished attending to the injured she could in the houses. In the Meduseld, were the critically injured she left to the professional healers to carry out. She walked through the huts and the marketplace, thinking.
If this was all over, what would she do? Where would she go? It was natural to assume she would stay here in Rohan where her people were. But what of Aragorn and Gimli? Legolas. She did not know where she stood with the elf, though she suspected or rather hoped he had been on the cusp of expressing his feelings towards her. But he did not.
So maybe she was wrong. But she did not deny, the way he treated her different to their other friends. And not because she was female, Legolas did not discriminate in that way. She knew he had strong feelings for her, she just wanted to him to confirm them. But perhaps she needed to make the first move once he returned.
But more important matters on hand, she did not know where she stood in this war. Without hesitation she would stand with Rohan again, to fight Sauron and his armies. But would it be safer for her to hide away, not expose her abilities? She knew the choice she needed to make. If Frodo and Sam were still pursuing with their difficult quest, enduring for two so small. Then so could she. She thought with renewed determination.
She walked up the steps towards the Golden Hall, but it was much different to how she had first entered. The soldiers had looked at her in apprehension and surprise, but now they greeted her with nods of respect. Seeing the way the woman had handled herself on the battlefield, had given them a new perspective.
"Lady Thariya." Gamling gave her a bow.
How many times have I told you Gamling? Thariya shot him a smile.
"Thariya." The soldier corrected himself, smiling bashfully at her.
"I kept your staff safe as promised. Your weapons are also in the armoury, if you wish to take them. Lord Eomer has agreed to train with you after lunch and the Lothlorien Marchwarden is in the infirmary." Gamling informed her as she nodded.
I'm sorry. She winced, knowing how Haldir would have protested against it. He insisted that he was better and could make his way along with his company back to Lothlorien. Both Eowyn and Eomer had spoken to him, trying to convince him to stay for the feast when the others returned. His own soldiers, were too afraid to question him knowing his stubbornness.
His stubbornness rivals my own. Thank you, I will talk to him. Thariya gave him a bright smile before walking into the Golden Hall. Provisions had been set up on one side which had baskets of food, blankets and extra clothing. There were a line of people collecting what they needed. On the other side of the room, more food was being brought in preparation for the feast.
As well as this, many of the Rohirrim were eating a late lunch. Thariya made her way down the tables until she found the blonde haired maiden she was looking for.
"There you are. I was beginning to think, you had been swarmed by the people." Eowyn jested, putting some chicken in her mouth. Thariya ungraciously, sat herself down opposite her placing her fork into Eowyn's plate stealing the chicken.
"Hey! Get your own." Eowyn swatted her hand away.
In case you hadn't noticed there is no chicken here. Just stew. So how on Middle Earth are you eating that? Thariya enquired pouring stew into her bowl.
"The cooks are experimenting with dishes for tomorrow's feast. I just happened to be in the kitchens at the time, hard at work." Eowyn defended, seeing the look on her friend's face.
Hard at work? Thariya raised an eyebrow at her, taking a spoonful of her stew.
"As the caretaker of this city, I have a lot of responsibilities. Including tasting food." Eowyn emphasised.
But enough about me. How was your day? And have you made a decision regarding your choice? Eowyn asked.
My day wasn't bad. I managed to use my basic healing knowledge on smaller issues. Cuts, burns, wounds, some twisted bones and fevers. She shrugged.
Seeing Frodo in that vision reminded me, that he made a hard decision and he and Sam are still enduring to this day to destroy the Ring. What kind of protector would I be, if I chose to hide myself regardless of the risk. I will stand and fight when the time comes for it. Thariya spoke to Eowyn.
"This is exactly the way I feel. Rohan is our homeland, and I want nothing more to defend it." Eowyn started.
But with you it is different. You are the King's-
"So you can go fight but I cannot defend this kingdom? I should stay behind and tend to the citizens, help wit the washing and cooking?" Eowyn's voice rose defensively.
Thariya placed a hand on her arm, knowing the way Eowyn felt about this subject.
That is not what I meant and you know it. She gave her a pointed look.
"I know." Eowyn calmed down.
Your uncle loves you and wishes to protect you. He believes you to be the capable leader of Rohan. Whilst you have a duty and responsibility, you also have a duty to your heart. Thariya looked at her earnestly.
"What are you saying?" Eowyn asked.
I am saying, let's take a break from our responsibilities. And train. She gave the woman a grin.
...
"There you are. Will you tell them I am fine?" Haldir's steely eyes met the Nauth Herdir with a huff as she entered the infirmary.
The healing maiden looked helplessly at Thariya, looking put out by the elf's protests.
Can't you cooperate, you stubborn elf? Thariya placed hands on her hips looking down at Haldir on the makeshift bed.
"No, because I am fine. I wish to return to Lothlorien." Haldir sighed impatiently, letting the woman change his dressings.
Why are you trying to leave so soon? Thariya asked softly, sitting on the edge of his bed.
"It is not only me, my soldiers wish to return to their families. I miss my brothers, I have not seen them since they returned from the borders." He explained.
I understand. And wait you have brothers? Why did you not introduce me? Thariya asked in surprise.
"Yes, two. Rumil and Orophin. They were patrolling our borders and were not scheduled to return until after you departed. They would like you." Haldir gave her a smile.
I understand you miss Lothlorien, but will you please stay tomorrow night for the Feast? You are not fit to travel yet Haldir. She pleaded with him.
"I am fit enough. But since you are pleading, I suppose another day would not hurt." He relented as Thariya grinned at him, jumping up from the bed.
"Where are you off to, dressed like that?" Haldir took note of her appearance, she was dressed in light armour tunic, boots and was armed with her staff and sword.
Training with Eomer and Eowyn, I feel it will be good to keep my instincts sharp in case I do not have my abilities at my disposal. I have become too reliant on them. Thariya explained.
"That is actually very wise." Haldir remarked, impressed.
Why are you so surprised? Thariya hit his shoulder.
"Just did not know you mortals possessed such wisdom." He shrugged nonchalantly, causing Thariya to glare at him.
Keep him here for as long as necessary. She glanced at the woman tending to his wounds, who suppressed her smile.
"What?" Haldir glanced at her in horror.
Enjoy! She glanced back at him before leaving the hall.
The Nauth Herdir made her way to the training ground seeing the brother and sister already standing there. This was the first time Thariya had seen Eowyn in something other than a gown, she looked fierce.
"Ah, you're here." Eomer smiled upon seeing her.
"Let's begin. Now I want to ascertain your strengths and weaknesses by sparring with you both, individually." Eomer said.
"So you both know how this works, Thariya hand me your staff. No using your powers." Eomer held out his hand as the Nauth Herdir complied, surrendering her staff.
"Start facing each other. And when I say, you may start." Eomer instructed.
"And when do we stop?" Eowyn asked, pulling her hair back.
"I will tell you." Eomer spoke.
Both women took up their stances against each other. Thariya much interested to see how Eowyn would fight and the extent of her abilities. Even though the Nauth Herdir was fairly skilled with the blade coupled with her powers, it would be beneficial to get a new perspective under Eomer.
"Begin." Eomer's voice rang out.
Thariya played her side defensively, she watched the other woman's movements and was not prepared for Eowyn's flurry of attacks. Her Rohan steel clashed onto the elvish blade gifted to Thariya by Elrohir.
After her initial surprise, her battle instincts kicked in and she blocked her parries and thrusts. Thariya's battle experience began to outsmart Eowyn's inexperience despite her skill with a blade. Thariya found a pattern to her attacks and managed to block and smoothly duck out of the way with fluid movements.
Her training with the elves had paid off. Now that she stepped out of the attacks, Thariya began landing some blows of her own. Swiping at Eowyn's knees and her arms. But the shieldmaiden defending herself admirably. Thariya could see Eowyn begin to run out of breath, using this to her advantage she swung her blade swifter and harder, feeling Eowyn's blade falter.
"Stop." Eomer said clearly as both women, looked to him, panting for breath.
You are a skilled fighter. Thariya complimented the other woman.
"Likewise." Eowyn nodded.
"Sister, your blocks have much improved since we last sparred and your defences are adequate. Your attacks are practised and precise, you landed most of your blows." Eomer praise her encouragingly.
"But?" Eowyn prompted.
"That is where your weakness also lies, you need to change your routine of attacks. I am sure, Thariya will agree with me when she began to notice a pattern?" Eomer checked with the Nauth Herdir who noticed.
"Okay." Eowyn nodded taking the information in.
"How can I improve this?"
"More practise. I will start with you." Eomer stated.
"And you Thariya. Your defence and attacks are very strong, but you take a great risk in waiting for your opponent to tire out before attacking." Eomer pointed out as Thariya nodded.
I know. Usually in battle this would be where I use my abilities. The Nauth Herdir agreed.
"You need to be more confident in your thrusts and parries, so we will work on your attack next." Eomer said to her as she nodded.
The next couple of hours passed relatively quickly for the three companions. Thariya took a break as she watched the way Eomer sparred and taught Eowyn more techniques and advice before launching into an attack with her. He was unrelenting with Thariya, as she learnt by watching how he varied his attacks. Fast and slow, to catch his opponent off guard before he also sparred with her.
By the end of their training session, the sun was setting and the three of them were covered in sweat.
I rather enjoyed that. She smiled at the siblings as they walked down the corridor.
There was a sudden flurry of activity as soldiers began running to the Meduseld, a herald echoing out in Edoras.
"Whats going on?" Eomer caught a soldier running past them.
"King Theoden has returned."
...
You are alright. She engulfed Aragorn and Gimli in hugs, not caring for her appearance.
"You look a mess lass." Gimli remarked on her grubby appearance.
"Master dwarf that is no way to speak to a lady." Gandalf reprimanded jokingly.
Gandalf. She smiled widely at the wizard.
I was just training with Eomer and Eowyn. She getsured to the siblings behind them who were embracing their uncle.
"Meaning you have not rested since the battle like I told you to." Aragorn said sternly as Thariya looked bashful.
There was too much to do. She shrugged.
"You are much too selfless." Legolas emerged giving her a small smile.
Legolas. She smiled widely as her heart blossomed at the sight of him. She wanted nothing more than to engulf him in her embrace, breathe in his scent she had grown accustomed to. She also wanted to kiss him.
I am glad you are well. She cursed herself for the formal tone. She wanted desperately to bring up their almost conversation from the day before, but she knew it would have to be done in private.
The wizard, man and dwarf watched interestedly at how the two companions openly observer at the other. The latter was muttering in frustration about the two dancing around each other.
Aragorn silenced Gimli with a look, knowing the situation would need to be handled gently and privately.
"She sees Legolas return and you'd think she's forgotten about us!"
"Stop your whining Pip, you still owe me some longbottom leaf." Merry chastised him as they walked towards Thariya.
Merry! Pippin! She bent down and swooped both hobbits into her arms, causing the other companions to laugh in amusement at them.
I would never forget you. She released them, choosing to ignore the quip about Legolas.
"Good, because we thought we'd made quite the impression on you!" Pippin huffed.
In fact I rather missed your jokes and company. These three were a bore. She getsured to Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli who protested.
"At least with us, you were never be short on food." Legolas mused causing Thariya to laugh jovially at the hobbits expense.
Come let us go from these mocking eyes. She shot a bemused look at Legolas who was smirking.
I want to hear your whole story. From start to finish.
A/N: I'm not sorry for all the dancing around each other, it's just too fun to write. Thoughts?