A/N: I know I know! It's been like almost 4 months since I uploaded and all I can say is that life got in the way but hopefully I got my groove back and I've got a new chapter to upload. Upload day is now Friday so hopefully I'll get new chapters to you. Chapter 27 will be a little wonky because I'm a bit rusty.

So we last left our lovebirds leaving Rohan and they've reached the mountains. So this chapter is a little fluffy, hope you guys will enjoy and a little filler-y to set things up for the next couple chapters regarding the army of dead and eventually the battle of pelennor fields.

Thanks to all those who favourited and followed me and this story during the hiatus: KissingThorn, feliciakartika75, Slyshy21, Hing Yi, Paige McCarthy, Bigrob1945, LaahReddington, Loverofcreepythings, SolitaryNyght, Swiss Army Gnat!

And you beautiful reviewers especially my regulars, thank you for being so patient and I hope you guys will continue reading this story :)

d'elfe: Thank you!

Thatonesuperwholockedgirl: Haha thank you! I will also be interested in which direction I take it in xD. Aww I know, I didn't mean to make him so likeable lol!

FanofFanfics205 (from chap 7): He still needs to get round to that!

crecentomoon (Chap 23): WE all need a man (elf?) like Legolas!

- Angels and Douchebags

"I pitched my tent next to yours." Legolas found the Nauth Herdir inspecting her handiwork with a degree of criticism.

Thariya gave him a smile, then frowned at the tent. Half of the canvassed material was trailing along the ground, whilst the other was pitched high up.

At this rate I don't have a tent to sleep in. Thariya chuckled, wondering where she went wrong.

"Allow me." Legolas stepped forward and set to work on her tent. With swift, precise movements and expert hands, her tent was up within a few minutes.

How? Thariya glanced at the elf beside her who smiled.

"After years of being on the road with Aragorn, he has taught me a few things." Legolas smiled faintly, as if he were trapped in an old memory.

Gimli had mentioned you fought in the Battle of Five Armies? With his father to reclaim Erebor. Thariya probed, walking away from the tent. Legolas took her hand and pressed a kiss to it, walking past the other tents in high encampment.

"Aye, I did." Legolas nodded. He led her over to where some rocks were as they sat, looking down on all the tents from the armies that had come.

Thariya waited patiently for him to speak, her eyes roaming the horizon.

"It was difficult, but in the end my Father's army fought alongside Thorin Oakenshield and his company against the Orcs of Moria." He begun.

"There was a Captain of the Guard. She, well she and I were good friends." Legolas watched the sun begin to set beyond the mountains.

Perhaps more? Thariya squeezed his hand, seeing the faraway look in his eyes.

"I wished it. But it was not so." His startling blue eyes turned to her.

What happened? She nudged him gently, she was not jealous. Legolas' past was his own, and she would respect that.

"She loved another. A dwarf from Thorin's company. His nephew." Legolas said thoughtfully as Thariya's eyes widened in shock.

A d-dwarf?

"Yes." Legolas smiled faintly.

"But he was slain in battle. And she died of heartbreak, shortly after." His eyes appeared glassy.

I am sorry. She pressed her head into Legolas' side, leaning into him.

"It is not your fault my dear." Legolas rested his head atop hers.

"I have you now." Legolas pulled apart to face her.

"And you have brought me such joy and happiness into my life, I have never felt more alive than I have with you." The intensity of his gaze was almost too much for Thariya to bear.

Legolas. What are you saying? Thariya sat up to face him.

"Gi melin." Legolas cupped her face.

"I love you Thariya." He repeated in Westron, whispering the words.

Thariya was in utter shock. She knew the deepness of his feelings for her, for she felt strongly for him also. But love? She did not know that is how he felt. When elves fell in love, they gave their heart wholly to the other person. Mating for life. For humans, they did not feel as devoutly as the elves, they could love many in the lifetime. She had not given much thought to love, her mind was racing with thoughts. What if she didn't say she loved Legolas back? Would he reject her? Or even die of the heartbreak?

Legolas was perceptive to say the least. And to see his beloved thrown into such turmoil, well he wanted to put her out of her misery.

"Thariya, it is alright." Legolas' face broke out into a slight smile.

"I am simply telling you how I feel. I know the weight of the words I carry, I would not force or coerce you into saying it back. Even if you do not feel that way yet. Do so when you are ready." He calmly reassured her.

Thariya simply placed her hands around his neck, pulling him in for a kiss. She held his lips against hers, as confirmation of his words.

Thank you. She pulled apart leaning her forehead against his.

"Are you lovebirds quite done?" A gruff voice called out from behind them.

The pair turned around, finding Merry shuffling his feet awkwardly and saving sheepishly to them. Beside him stood Gimli, impotently tapping his feet.

"Are we not allowed a shred of privacy Mellon?" Legolas quirked amused.

"Well of course ya are, but we are waiting for you so we can get some food! Come on!" Gimli barked walking off.

"Confound that dwarf and his impatience." Legolas muttered in her hair. Thariya grinned at him in response.

You should know by now that there is no privacy in our fellowship. Isn't that right Merry? She looked over at the hobbit who was waiting for them.

"Twas not my idea." He defended.

They climbed over the shards of rocks overlooking the encampment and back onto the grass.

The foursome walked to find Aragorn. They approached an outer tent where the horses were neighing and kicking their hind legs in the air. The usually calm demeanor was replaced by one of panic, with Lord Eomer trying to keep the peace.

Not a very good horse master are you? Thariya jested with an easy grin, but her smile faded upon seeing Eomer's serious face.

The Lord of Rohan glanced towards the narrow path which was framed by two high jagged rocks of the mountain walls. It was dark and dim, save for a few shadows and the wind whistling through.

Aragorn and King Theoden who were previously in deep conversation turned their heads to the restless horses. Thariya could perceive the panic and anxiety rolling off the horses, the animals would not heedlessly be afraid.

"The horses are restless and the men are quiet." Legolas glanced around at the other soldiers.

"They grow nervous in the shadow of the mountain." Eomer replied in a low voice, saddling his own horse.

Gimli narrowed his eyes at the small cleft through the rocks.

"That road there, where does it lead?" The dwarf asked.

"It is the road to the Dimholt, the door under the mountain." Legolas replied seriously.

Thariya felt a shiver run through her spine. They had all been told stories, myths of the men who dwelt in there. Traitors, liars, murderers who promised their allegiance to the King of Gondor, but never fulfilled. Rumours of thousands of ghosts, inhabiting that isolated place.

"None who venture there ever return. That mountain is evil." Eomer spat out, walking away with his horse.

You think the legend is true? Thariya turned to the elf and dwarf behind her. The grip on Legolas' hand tightening in fear. There were not many times the Nauth Herdir felt afraid, but the very mention of the mountain chilled her.

Legolas nodded silently in return. She was not entirely convinced.

It's okay. You are right to be afraid. He squeezed her hand reassuringly, but it did nothing to ease her nerves.

She looked back into the dreaded pathway, mist appearing from the rocks and blocking her vision. She narrowed her eyes, there was a faint figure with an aura of green. The ghostly figure widened it's eyes, giving her a toothy smile. She stood frozen in spot and just as soon as it had appeared, the man was gone.

"Come, let's find some food." Gimli's voice caused her to snap out of her reverie. She blinked a few times and turned back to her friends. Legolas' eyes held concern, whereas Aragorn appeared to be just as pale as she was.

Aragorn nodded and led the way further from the pathway.

"Are you alright?" Legolas asked in a low voice.

Fine. She replied. It was her mind playing tricks on her, the darkness inside her head perhaps causing to see things that were not there.

I just think I need some rest after this food. She smiled easily at him. The Nauth Herdir kept her eyes forward, staring at Aragorn's form. His position seem more slouched and drawn inward.

Aragorn. She called his voice privately as the Ranger's head shot upwards in surprise.

You saw something too didn't you? She posed the question, as the silence engulfed her.

Yes. His voice spoke back.

The companions reached a fire that Eomer and Eowyn were already sitting by and eating. Aragorn sat on a wooden trunk near Eowyn with Gimli beside him. Merry sat down beside the siblings talking amicably as Thariya took her place beside Legolas.

What did you see? She made eye contact with the ranger, beyond the fire.

The King of the Dead. Aragorn replied simply, as Thariya's fears were confirmed.

"You are quite entertaining to listen to, Master Meriadoc!" Eomer exclaimed, eating the roast deer they had hunted.

"That's nothing. Pippin has a lot more stories of the two of us! There was a time when Gandalf came to the Shire, we stole his fireworks and let off a huge dragon one, inside the tent!" Merry smiled at the nostalgia.

Inside the tent? Thariya raised an eyebrow amused.

"Did the Wizard ever find out it was the two of ya?" Gimli prompted.

"Well of course he did! We were covered in soot." Merry chuckled fondly.

"I will bet it was something to see." Legolas smiled faintly.

I have heard from Pippin, that Gandalf's fireworks are famous in the Shire.

Thariya took a bite of the roast meat, relishing in the delicacy they were able to find. Who knew how long it would be until they were allowed a decent meal again. One more day in Dunharrow, then they would ride to Gondor. To war.

"They really are a sight to see." Merry agreed.

"I hope you can come to the Shire one day, when this is all over." Merry looked at all the companions.

I expect a personal invitation Merry. Thariya's eyes gleamed.

And the promise of vast multitudes of food and meals. She added with a grin, causing the group to laugh.

"Thariya, if there's one thing I can guarantee you in a hobbit home; it's food." Merry replied with a laugh.

Legolas watched the happy face of his beloved, laughing and eating with their friends. And that is why the decision he made, would break her heart. She was in enough danger, most of the time she was able to fight for herself and defend others but Legolas knew the course to take. The elf had suspected, they would be taking the Dimholt route to Gondor.

Surrounded by all that dark energy and those tortured souls, Thariya would feed off the darkness and there was a much greater risk of her falling into that terrible state. The Prince knew they were going to war and there was a risk of it. She was perfectly capable of defending herself, but now they were courting, his first priority was to save her. Damn the consequences.

And that is why Legolas decided, if they followed the paths of the dead; Thariya would be left with the army.

...

"What do you think?" Eowyn asked as Thariya tilted her head sideways to inspect the hobbit.

I mean, I think the helmet is a little oversized. Thariya goaded as Eowyn silenced her with a sharp look.

"Missing one thing." Eowyn picked up a short sword and handed it to Merry who placed it in the scabbard. He was dressed in armour, with the symbol of the crest of Rohan on the front, and a green cape along the back.

"There. A true esquire of Rohan." Eowyn smiled as Merry looked pleased with himself.

I am joking Merry. You look very handsome. Thariya complimented as Merry smiled widely.

Merry drew the sword suddenly, pointing it closely to the two women standing in front of him.

"I'm ready!"

Eowyn and Thariya both jumped slightly, the latter giving him a nervous smile.

"Sorry. It isn't all that dangerous. It's not even sharp." Merry looked at the sword.

"Well that's no good. You won't kill many Orcs with a blunt blade. Come on." Eowyn nudged the hobbit outside her tent. Merry swung the sword back and forth, practising his parries enthusiastically.

"To the smithy, go!" Eowyn smiled encouragingly as Merry ran off.

"You should not encourage him." Both women turned around to find Eomer and Gamling sitting by the campfire.

He needs encouragement and hope, if he is to fight this battle with his heart. Thariya said pointedly.

"You should not doubt him." Eowyn's smile fell.

"I do not doubt his heart, only the reach of his arm." Eomer quipped, causing Gamling to laugh at the joke.

He may not be a might warrior Eomer, but he has a right to this war. His best friend is there in Gondor, fighting for his life and fighting for their home. This war will consume all of Middle Earth, it is lucky to have more warriors on our side. No matter their size. Thariya said calmly.

"And why should Merry be left behind? He has as much cause to go to war as you. Why cam he not fight for those he loves?" Eowyn said seriously as she begun to walk away. Thariya gave her friend a sympathetic look, she still had feelings for Aragorn. Even though he loved another.

Eomer stood up and walked towards the friends.

"You two know as little of war as that Hobbit. When the fear takes him and the blood and the screams and the horror of battle take hold. Do you think he would stand and fight? He would flee. And he would be right to do so. War is the province of men." Eomer said in a low voice.

You do not know the wars and battles I have fought. The battle I am constantly fighting against myself and my darkness. I may not be as experienced as you Eomer, but I have seen my family murdered before my eyes. I have had dark visions of my nearest being mutilated, and the fear that takes hold of you is a different kind altogether. You may be a man, and war may be the province of men. But it is women who are left to pick up the pieces, rebuilt what was broken. Thariya said angrily.

Hurt him. A voice hissed in her mind as she looked at Eomer. She had been gripping her staff tightly, the knuckles on her hand growing white and small sparks emerging from the mallorn staff. Eomer had placed himself protectively between the furious Nauth Herdir and his sister, just in case.

What she hadn't noticed was the way her pupils almost turned black during her heated tirade, the fear that crossed over the Horsemaster. Thariya seemed confused for a moment. Eomer had insulted her, had presumed to know what he could not possibly understand.

He deserves it. The voice said once more. Thariya looked at Eomer again, the way his hand lingered over the hilt of his sword. It was as if the fog had lifted and the mist cleared from her eyes.

No. He is a friend. Thariya released the grip on her staff, calming down. She gave Eomer a firm look before storming off towards her tent. She throw back the canvas material and sat down on the bedroll clenching her hands into her hair.

No no no. Stay in control. She whispered, placing the staff on the ground. Her heart was racing, her head was screaming. It took all of her willpower to not march out of the tent and finish the heir to the Rohan throne.

She released strands of her hair and clenched her fists. Digging the nails into her palms. She pressed so hard that the skin broke, causing a trail of blood on her hands.

She closed her eyes and took deep breaths. In. And out. Legolas. She thought to herself, conjuring his face in her mind. His boyish features filled her mind, his sapphire blue eyes, muscular jaw and silky blonde hair. His sweet smile, his laugh. She could hear him, see him. Her heart slowed down, her breathing evened.

She opened her eyes, finding the lamp lighting up her tent in the darkness. She breathed a sigh of relief and collapsed on the bed. Allowing her eyes to close, she let the darkness consume her into a deep sleep.

...

Bodies littered on the battlefield. Thariya wiped the dirt from her forehead, the city of Minas Tirith just visible further beyond. Thousands of orcs fighting Gondor and Rohan men alike. Giant Mumakil bellowed loudly, being ridden on by Haradrim. There was a large flapping of wings behind her. She turned around to find the Nazgul, mounted by the Witch-king approach a fallen body.

No! Thariya shouted, recognising the body as King Theoden. Another figure emerged, standing between the Nazgul and the King. The lone soldier drew their sword out, standing bravely against the enemy.

"You will not touch him." The higher pitched voice spat out venomously. Thariya recognised that voice, she had been with her for long enough. Eowyn. The Nauth Herdir ran forward to help, but she was rooted to the spot.

Do not come between the Nazgul and his prey. A menacing voice penetrated the air, sending shivers down her spine. The Nazgul lunged forward towards Eowyn, but before Thariya could see further, she collapsed.

...

She woke up in a rush. Breathing heavily, her head and neck laced with sweat. She looked around, finding herself back inside the tent. It was a vision. She had just seen the events of the battle to come. And if she was right, Eowyn was in trouble.

She sat up and got out of bed, shrugging a cloak onto her shoulders, she stepped outside into the cold air seeking Legolas' comfort. The camp seemed to bustle with activity. She caught the arm of a soldier who was rushing in front of her.

What's going on? She asked the man.

"Three strangers have ridden into camp my lady, they are saying it's the elves." The solider replied with uncertainty.

Okay. Thank you. She smiled at him, letting him go.

She walked around the tent towards the King's tent, trying to get a better idea as to who had come. Her heart jumped in hope at the possibility of Haldir returning. No. She shook her head, he needed to go defend their borders.

"Thariya. You are awake." Aragorn walked towards her, he looked bedraggled and his hair was askew.

Yes I am. She narrowed her eyes at him questioningly.

"The King has summoned me to his tent. But you have been summoned also." Aragorn walked beside her.

What for? She asked in surprise.

"I guess we will find out." They reached the front of the tent, where a solider pulled the flaps back, allowing the companions to walk in.

Theoden was talking lowly with three hooded figures, all hiding their identities. King Theoden looked up seeing Thariya and Aragorn and walked towards the entrance of the tent.

"I take my leave." He said seriously.

Okay. What is going on here? Thariya whirled around to the three figures. The first figure turned and removed the hood.

Thariya gasped in shock before striding over to the elf and giving him a wide hug.

Lord Elrond. She cried in happiness as the elder elf gave her an equally tight hug in return. He pulled apart from her, giving her a wide smile.

"My dear Thariya." Elrond wiped the tears from her eyes.

"You have grown much." He stated, scanning her form. She had grown stronger and leaner from their time travelling.

"My lord Elrond." Aragorn bowed respectfully, but looking more surprised to see the elf lord of Rivendell standing before them.

That can only mean- Thariya turned to the other two figures who had already picked her up off the ground and tackled her into hugs.

Elrohir! Elladan! Put me down. She demanded as the twin elves laughed at her misfortune. They drew their hoods down, revealing their handsome smiling faces. They released the Nauth Herdir as she stood in front of them, huffing.

"My, my you have definitely grown more feisty since your departure." Elrohir chuckled, pulling her hair. Thariya slapped him playfully.

"But you are still just as beautiful." Elladan's musical voice rang out. Thariya turned to face the other elf, who was giving her a charming smile. She smiled back, happy to see him. But the elf failed to hide his feelings.

She could sense, his feelings still strong for her. At a loss for words, or how to explain herself she simply replied:

And you are just as charming. She smiled.

The twins greeted Aragorn as the five companions took their seats in King Theoden's tent. Whilst Thariya was happy to see them, they would not have ventured so far from their homeland if not in dire need.

"I come on behalf of one whom I love. Arwen is dying. She will not long survive the veil that now spreads from Mordor. The light of the Evenstar is failing. As Sauron's power grows, her strength wanes. Arwen's life is now tied to the fate of the Ring. The Shadow is upon us Aragorn. The end has come." Elrond finished, a look of despair on his face.

The gravity of his words hit Thariya, as she contemplated on what he had said. Her surrogate sister, her friend was dying. What could they do? She looked at Elladan and Elrohir, their playful tones replaced by a grave face as they listened to their father.

"It will not be our end but his." Aragorn said confidently.

Elrond looked towards Thariya then back to Aragorn, holding his words.

I know that look. She narrowed her eyes at him.

It means you wish to speak in private with Aragorn? Thariya checked as Elrond nodded apologetically.

I understand. Come Elladan, Elrohir. Let us catch up. She gave the two a jerk of her head as they left the tent.

She wrapped her arms around each of their backs, relishing in their company.

How is my favourite sibling in Imladris? She asked cheekily.

"Our dear sister is fine. She speaks of how much happier she is now that you have departed." Elrohir jested.

I do miss her company. Thariya said wistfully.

But really, how is she?

"She is patient." Elladan chose to answer.

"She has chosen to remain in Middle Earth, she is not departing with the ships to Valinor. She is waiting for Aragorn." He replied with a sad smile. The corners of her mouth turned upwards as she felt joy.

I am glad to hear that. And I am sure he will be too! So have the Princes of Rivendell come to fight in our battle? She raised her eyebrows at them.

"Princes? You do think highly of us." Elrohir scoffed.

"Our grandmother sent word of your adventures. Once we knew what you had been up to, nothing could keep us away." Elladan gave her a charming smile.

It is nice to see your faces again. And to see you both in good health!

"If I didn't know any better, I would say you missed us mellon." Elrohir gave her a wry smile.

"I wholeheartedly agree. Prince of Mirkwood not giving you good company?" Elladan mocked.

Thariya glared at both of them.

Legolas is great company I will have you know. She defended him.

He is kind and caring. He is a great warrior, and just as fun as you two. She walked ahead of them, turning round to face them.

"If I didn't know any better, it sounds like you are in love with him." Elrohir joked as Elladan stiffened at the words. Thariya remained silent at his words, causing a tension to hang over the air.

"Something you care to tell us?" Elrohir crossed his arms over his chest as they stopped outside her tent. Elladan held his breath. His feelings for Thariya had not changed over the nine months she had gone. If anything he missed the Nauth Herdir more, once Elrond had said they would ride to Dunharrow, the elder twin was ecstatic at the prospect of seeing her.

If you must know. Thariya begun drawing out her words.

Legolas and I are courting.

A/N: Oof ouch. Poor Elladan. I probably don't deserve it after leaving y'all hanging for so long. but pretty please review?