lDisclaimer: I am in no way affiliated with the Tolkien estate or New Line Cinemas. All elves and people of Middle Earth belong to Tolkien. Any movie scenes are owned by Peter Jackson and new Line Cinemas. All Original Characters are mine as is the plots and any facts, not in book or movies, are mine and mine alone. This piece is a work of fiction. No money is being made from this work of fiction.
Chapter Twenty-Seven:Many things on the Journey...
Beside the Anduin...
Images of Merry and Pippin being found in Fangorn, and brought to Gandalf by the Ents cause her to awaken just before dawn. The early birds chirped as the slowly lightening sky woke for the day. It was good to know that her two little hobbit friends were in the safe care and protection of the Ent Treebeard. Now all that was needed was Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli finding Gandalf, which she felt in her heart would be this day sometime.
She rose, ate and changed into fresh clothing. After feeding and grooming Naufaer, her journey was start again. Today, she decided that Naufaer would not take such a harsh pace and be on the doorstep of the Riddermark by mid afternoon. Three more days, and she would arrive in Edoras. After covering up the fire, and clearing all evidence that she was there, she mounted and began heading south.
In Lothlorien...
After deciding who was to go, they began sending word out to all. It was decided that a meeting would be held at sundown, announcing the news of battle, the Lord and Lady were expected to attend.
Celeborn had helped the brothers some with the task of finding recruits. After many long hours he told them that bright and early, he would be on the training field to hone the skills, which had lain dormant for many years. The plan for the recruits was to spend more time before leaving training and making sure they were ready.
Galadriel had a task of her own to perform as well during this time. She spent her time this day going to the metal workers and seamstresses. Making sure that the armor, no one else knew of, for Arlothiyenne was made to the right specifications. This armor had many details that would be key in the management of Arlothiyenne magic. Each part had a reason and function, the making of it a great secret and greatly important.
As she made her way back to her talan, the Lady stopped at the mirror glade and check on the progression of Arlothiyenne's journey. Peering into the mirror, the Lady saw that she was approaching the outskirts of Isengard. So far, none of the minions working for Sauruman, knew she was passing by. Fangorn was the next thing. Arlothiyenne was right on schedule. She would arrive in Rohan in three more days.
Short Distance from Isengard...
Arlothiyenne crept quietly as she made her way past the forbidden place of Isengard, ever watchful of her surroundings. Naufaer was nervous and trotting quietly along. Arlothiyenn held a steady hand to the hilt of her sword in readiness for battle if it was to come. Another hour she would be passed this place. Fangorn laid just past that, but where she knew Gandalf was, was another ten to twelve hour trek. She would rest upon the plain in quiet this night. Deciding it best, she rushed Naufaer on to help pass the horrid Tower of Sauruman, before she was seen and taken.
After an hour, she breathed a sigh of relief and decided to rest herself and Naufaer for a bit. They stopped by a small pond and ate, with her sword drawn and ready. Arlothiyenne caught herself looking to her blade more and more, watching it to see if it would change. But it did not. No orcs were near. It was now late afternoon, nearing the eveing hours, she decided it best to travel more, then rest for the night. After snuffing out the small fire, repacking her things, she remounted and rode lazily along for a few more hours.
Lothlorien...Recruit Meetings...
The five hundred elven warriors arrived and another five hundred soon followed. Haldir was surprised by this number. It was clear; the extras came after hearing of impending battle and arrived to volunteer. The Lord and Lady had yet to arrive, so Orophin and Rumil were in the process of taking down the names of those that came. All five hundred original recruits came and were accounted for, but the names of those that were coming to volunteer were being taken.
Haldir would have his work cut out, finding subordinates to lead the small regiments. Rumil and Orophin were to lead their own, but he was deciding who would lead the other three. Each regiment would have two hundred elves, seeing that there were now a thousand; he would have to assign three more to lead. That task would be difficult. The wardens so far he had seen, were some of the best in all the Lorien guards. He decided not to think on it too much.
The Lord and Lady came into the training fields all the elves in company bowed before their fair ruler. Both were amazed at what they saw. Taken aback, Celeborn approached Haldir. "Mellon. How many have come?" he asked.
"One thousand. I only recruited five hundred who came gladly, but another five hundred arrived a short while ago to volunteer. I am amazed to this fact, My Lord," Haldir said, clearly taken back by all this.
"My, this is a turn of events. My Lady wife is stunned," he said looking over at Galadriel who looked upon the field.
"I see that she is," Haldir said.
Celeborn and Haldir walked to her side. She did not acknowledge them but stared at the scene before her. Her sadness showing, "So many have arrived. Men shall surely not fall, but what price to our kin. Tell me, Marchwarden, how many of them have come?" She asked not looking at him.
"I called for five hundred, my lady, but a thousand has shown up," he said.
Her gaze upon the recruits spoke of her great sadness. She nodded and looked up at Haldir. "So be it," she said sadly.
The company of Elves stood at attention. Lined up and waited for their rulers to speak. Haldir looked them all over with an appraising glance.
Lord Celeborn spoke first, "My fellow kinsmen, I welcome you this evening. Though our call to you is one that saddens our heart, it also brings us joy. Joy in knowing that you care enough to see this world bettered so that Men can rule it once again. Our call does not come easy. In recent days the shadow of evil has grown more frequent, more dangerous, and a looming sense of dread has even passed here inside our borders. We would like to convey that this task is strictly voluntary and that if you wish, you may choose not to go on this journey into battle. No judgment will befall any of you who choose to walk away."
The lord stopped and watched the warriors for a moment. No one moved, or voiced their denial of this task. Celeborn looked at Galadriel, then back again. "I see that your minds are made up. It does sadden us to have to send you, but know that the cause is for the good of all. I will say a prayer to the Valar for your safe and speedy return."
Galadriel stood there looking at her people, the warmth and love for each emanated from her. "My children, my kin, I thank you for your sacrifice for others. Our time here in Arda is slowly is coming to an end. Upon speaking to my son-in-law, Elrond, the decision to send you was not an easy one. The Alliance elves held with men, had been long gone, but felt that it should be reforged, before we leave these shores. Mankind will lead this Middle Earth into a new age. It is our responsibility to them to see that their new world, be peaceful."
She stopped and stepped forward and began walking up and down the lines. "This alliance will prevail and peace will be restored, but the price will be great. Some of you will return and others I fear will not. This fact alone, pains me deeply. Each one of you is the finest of our guardians. Most revered among the people of Lothlorien. My heart goes with you. In three days, a regiment of elves numbering fifteen hundred will be arriving from my son in law's realm of Rivendell, led by Lord Glorfindel. Haldir will be your Supreme Captain and Glorfindel his second in command." The Lady stopped and returned to Celeborn's side. She turned and continued, "At their arrival, three days hence, you will march. Gather your things and spend time with your families."
With that the lord and Lady left the training field. All continued on with preparations. Tomorrow training would begin.
Arlothiyenne at Rest...Second Night...
Arlothiyenne found a nice spot of rest near an outcropping boulder on the plains. Fangorn was not far off and would be reached the next morning. Bedding down, Arlothiyenne felt less worried of discovery. Naufaer took her regular stance over her and watched out for her as she slept proving to be the best traveling companion there was.
Through the night a faint smell protruded the air, the smell of foul burning flesh. Arlo wondered where it was coming from. She had seen no smoke rising, nor of what caused the smell. Remembering the vision of Merry and Pippin, she got the faint feeling that it came from orcs that had taken them. Just as she thought on it, she was given sight on what had happened.
After Merry and Pippin's escape the fight that had happened included men on horses. Looking like those from Rohan. They slew the horrid beasts and piled them up to burn. That was what the fight was truly, she had seen.
She was not far from Fangorn. This vision confirmed it. She laid there looking up into the night sky and thought of home. She missed the smell of the trees, the sounds of the animals that dwelt there. She thought of her parents, Rumil, Orophin, and of Haldir. She missed them all, but Haldir the most. She wondered what he was doing and if he missed her to. Reaching into her pack, she pulled out an under tunic. It was Haldir's. She had taken it without his knowledge, knowing that at some point she would need it to be near him, this was the first time she had to pull it from her pack. She put it to her nose and inhaled his scent, and it comforted her. She hugged it close to her heart and grabbed the hilt of her sword, soon she fell asleep.
In Lothlorien...Haldir...
Haldir finally laid his head down for the night; he looked up at the ceiling, his heart heavy with emotions he could not name. He had just a short while ago, got done with the task of appointing leaders and the talks with Celeborn about battle plans. The actions were tedious and he was now tired. He laid there with his head swirling with thoughts on Arlothiyenne, wondering how she was, if she was alright, how far she had gone. She was due to be in Rohan in three days and he was to set out in less than that. His heart ached.
He got up, feeling that no sleep was in his immediate future, and walked the short distance to Arlothiyenne's talan. Opening the door, he was assaulted by her sweet scent. He stood in the door and inhaled deeply. It brought him some comfort. He shut the door and made his way into her chambers. It seemed strange for her not being there. He walked over to her bed and ran a hand over the coverlets, as if to feel her there. He closed his eyes and remembered her face. So beautiful, a little rounder than most elleth but definitely beautiful. He walked to her vanity and looked at her brush, that still held a few strands of her hair, ran his hand over the strands. Walking to her wardrobe, he opened the door and saw the gown she wore the night of her coronation. He smiled at the memory of her wearing it and how well she held herself that night.
Gods he missed her...maybe more now than when she was absent before. His heart had grown to love her more since her return. He found her night-dress, and pressed it to his nose. It still smelt of her. He held it close to his chest sighing deeply.
"Arlothiyenne, my love, I miss you so much," he said aloud.
He looked at her desk and walked to it. Opening the doors on it, he lit a lantern and sat down. Upon the desk, he found an envelope with his name upon it. Furling a curious brow, he picked it up and broke the seal.
Bringing the lantern closer, he began to read.
My dearest Haldir,
If you are reading this, I was right that you would have strayed in here. I know you are missing me, know that I miss you too.
I foresaw something several nights ago, before meeting Elbereth. In a dream, or vision or whatever you may call it, something that makes my heart fear. I pray that it will not go as I saw it, my mother said it was a dream of coming out of fear.
I want to tell you that dream for I know of the impending call for elves to get involved. I foresaw it too. Please bear with me. I tear up even now as I write it.
Aragorn was in the armory, watching as men, young and aged prepare for battle. Aragorn spoke of dying with the men if need be. Legolas' anger is fueled by despair for the people. Later Aragorn is on the steps, talking to a young boy, readied in armor and wielding a sword, Aragorn asks to see the sword and tell the boy it was a good one.
Next I saw Aragorn dressed in his armor, Legolas approaches him with a sword held out. Friendship is mended at this moment. After Gimli enters wearing an oversized chain mail a horn sounded.
'Urk!' Aragorn muttered. Legolas's eyes averted toward the stone stairs. "That is no Orc horn!" he responded. Both ran up the stairs and out on the battlements. The King was approached by the leader of the new-coming army, an elven. The elf leader was, You, dressed in full armor and your red cloak.
The dream did not stop there. Next I saw the battle ensue. The king called to Aragorn to get his men out to the keep. The elves fought alongside the men. The elf, my heart kept denying it, was you, Haldir. You were fighting when Aragorn called out to you, "Nan Barad!" I watched as you called out to your men. Fighting your way towards the keep, and orc came up to you and sliced your left arm, causing you to stand there shocked and dazed. In her my dream, I was there standing there beside you, but you could not hear me. Behind you, like a flash another orc came running. I screamed out, but you did not hear me. The orc wielding an axe brought the massive weapon down upon your back. Stunned from the blow, you fell to your knees and only stared into the air. Seeing you like this, my spirit ran to you and knelt beside you, I screamed for you to stay for me. You looked briefly into my direction, and then said my name. Aragorn soon made his way to your side and held you, but your head fell back and your spirit left your body. I screamed out, which no one heard me, and cried for you to return, but you did not, you died.
Haldir, what I write is terrifying, I know, but you need to know what I saw. It pains me to think on it. I feel this pull to leave early, you know this, I feel that I am needed elsewhere. If this dream is a vision, I will see it changed. I will not let you fall to your fate. I cannot. Take this to heart, my love...Keep safe and mindful of your surroundings. You must survive..if not for men...then for me.
I miss you more than anything and I believe that I will see you sooner than we can imagine.
I love you, my gallant warrior. You are with me, no matter the distance. I keep a part of you near my heart.
Forever I am yours,
Arlothiyenne.
Haldir was stunned by what she had written. No wonder she was adamant on leaving early. After seeing her words and hearing what the lady said, Haldir was convinced he would survive. He had to more than anything. He refolded the letter and placed it in his tunic, close to his heart. Wanting to feel near her, he decided to stay in her bed tonight. He laid down on her bed. Her scent still on the pillows, and fell asleep. Tonight he felt she was nearer to him and this comforted him.
Threshold of the Riddermark and Fangorn...
The night had been restless more visions, this time of Aragorn and the others were to enter the woods of Fangorn after meeting a host of horse men on the Mark, it forced Arlothiyenne out of her sleep. So she rose long before daylight. She ate, gathered her things, then mounted Naufaer. Her trip would continue her ever southward. About mid morning, she stopped to rest and scanned the terrain. Her sharp elven sight seemed keener this morning than any other.
In the distance she saw the old forest of Fangorn. Just on the outskirts, she saw wisps of smoke rising from a large pile. She alerted, and looked about for impending danger, then continued on. It was the orcs that had Merry and Pippin, she was sure of it. She knew that Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli would arrive soon.
The Mark was now before her, some two hours later, the land rough, smooth, rocky and hilly all throughout. The tall winter grass swayed in the early spring breeze. Arlothiyenne found a spot near some boulders that cropped out, for cover and rested. Sensing something in the wind, she knelt, put an ear to the ground and listened. What she heard was the sounds of hooves beating across the ground. She stood, looked around, and saw something in the distance coming toward her. As they came closer, she realized it was a host of horses speeding near her. She grabbed her sword's hilt and watched.
She called to them, knowing who they were. "Riders of Rohan, what news do you have of the Mark?" she asked. The leader heard her call and turned the horse back. Within moments she was surrounded, but it was not fear she felt. The leader came up closer to her.
"What business does a she elf have on the mark?" he asked eyed her suspiciously.
"Fear not me, friend, for I am only passing through, heading to your city to meet up with friends. Have you seen them?" she asked curiously. She wanted to gain their trust.
"What friends may they be, she elf?" he asked clipped, irritated like.
"Man named Aragorn. He is accompanied by an Elf, Legolas, and a Dwarf named Gimli," she said looking at them.
"Aye we have seen them not even two hours ago. They claim to be searching for two creatures called Hobbits. Who are you to them?" he asked his gaze squarely upon her.
"As I have stated, a friend. Tell me, do you know where they have gone?" she said.
"They have traveled to Fangorn in search of the hobbits, but we have informed them that we found none. Two nights ago, there was an orc party roaming near the forbidden forest. None were left alive. That we saw no such creatures," he said looking sad. His horse moved about restlessly.
Her heart lept in her chest. They went to Fangorn. She knew they would find Gandalf. She smiled. "Ah, I see, thank you, sir, for your information." she told him.
"I must ask you, she-elf, for I am the captain of these men, and this is my King's Realm. Where are you from and who are you?" his eyes never left hers.
"Good sir, I hail from Lothlorien, I am Princess Arlothiyenne, adopted daughter of Lord Celeborn and of Lady Galadriel. May I have you name also?" she asked him kindly.
"I am Eomer, nephew to King Theoden of Rohan." he responded, his horse still moving and huffing from the hard ride.
"Ah, King Theoden. Tell me how fares your uncle?" she asked. Just speaking to this man, Eomer, she saw the treachery that was going on in the city, but she wanted to see if he would admit it.
"His mind is clouded as of late, poisoned by the enemy. He no longer sees a friend from foe," he said rather irritated.
In her heart, she knew this is what Gandalf was to do. Theoden would be needed and soon. It is why Gandalf wanted her to leave two days after him so he could cast out the evil before she arrived. She was sure that was his plan. She sadly smiled up at him, sad to hear the news, "I am sorry to hear of this. Tell me do I have permission to continue. I am not a spy nor am I an enemy to your land. I only wish to catch up with my friends," she assured him.
Eomer looked her up and down, and then nodded. "Aye, you may pass. Should trouble arise, you are on your own. Riders of Rohan, Let us go west!" he yelled and left her.
She rode southeast. The Anduin she would follow for a while.
Fangorn...
Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli found their way outside the Fangorn forest. They approached the bodies still burning, all hoping that Merry and Pippin were not among the dead. The three searched through the ruins and became saddened upon finding one of their little belts. Aragorn seeing this, fell to his knees and screamed out in frustration. Legolas, felt forlorn at the loss of the little ones, and Gimli began to cry out for them. Aragorn stopped his cry and stared at the ground. It struck him then.
Being a tracker, he began to see the trail left by their two little companions and saw that they had been chased into the forest. The three stood looking at the outskirts of the massive forest.
With a slight hesitation, the three ran into the forest, looking everywhere for the little hobbits and following their trails. After a short time, Legolas sensed something. "The white wizard approaches," his gaze looking from side to side.
A shadow of concern passed over Aragorn. "Let him not speak for he will put a spell on us," he said grasping his sword's hilt. Legolas and Gimli readied their weapons as well. In unison they turned, weapons drawn and ready, a blinding light came, Legolas fired his arrow but the arrow quickly ricocheted and fell to the ground, Aragorn's sword was like fire and he dropped it.
They shielded their eyes from the light that emanated before them brighter than that of Galadriel had done. Out of the light came a booming voice. "You are tracking the steps of two young hobbits." The tone went from authority to more of a cheert tone. "They passed here the day before yesterday," the man behind it said. Just then, the figure of a man emerged. It was Gandalf. The three were stunned by this.
"We thought you were Saruman," Aragorn said stunned.
"Gandalf!" Gimli said, feeling gladness in his heart.
Hearing his old name, Gandalf said it aloud. "Gandalf the grey. That is what they used to call me. Saruman. I am or what he was supposed to be, I am Gandalf the White," he said smiling.
Aragorn stepped forward. "How can this be? You fell," he said still not believing.
"Through fire and water, I fell." His mind drifted back to the memory of his plight."To the top of the mountain, I fought my foe. For days I fought, until finally I defeated him. Then darkness took me. I return now at the turn of the tide," he said. He walked forward with the others behind him. "Merry and Pippin are quite safe. So, none of you worry. Let us go. It is another two days ride to Edoras."
Gimli fell behind talking about the trees and their ugliness. He could hear them began to groan, and then quickly changed his tune. Leaving the forest, they walked out on the plain. Gandalf whistled and a white horse came running to them. Legolas not believing it looked on in awe. "Is it? Or does my eyes deceive me? That is a maeras?"
"This is Shadowfax, he has been my friend for many years," Gandalf said as the horse got closer he reached out, stroking its mane, and looking at him adoring the creature.
They all mounted the horses, given to them by the riders on the Mark. Before setting off, Gandalf looked at them. "The ride will be long. I must say, that after we arrive in Edoras, a friend shall join us. She is in route now as we speak and be there in two days," Gandalf said.
Legolas knew in his heart that it was Arlothiyenne. Aragorn cocked his head to the side. "Arlothiyenne is on her way?" he asked.
"Yes Aragorn. She is making her way there. But will not arrive exactly when we do. There is something I must take care of first before she does." Gandalf said as Shadowfax took off.
The three horses raced across the land toward the City and its Golden Hall.
Lothlorien...
The city hustled and bustled with activity, gathering the things the warriors would need for battle. Lord Celeborn joined the Marchwarden and the others on the training field. He fought with them, honing his long dormant skills. They would be needed soon and he knew it.
The regiments of Rivendell were due the following morning and merge with Lorien's regiments, then leave shortly after. Scouts had been sent ahead of the Rivendell army to announce their final arrival time. They would be there at dawn and then march on two hours after arrival. It would cause them to be behind a little, but elves are fast and would make up the time effortlessly.
Haldir got his armor ready. It was now in his living room. Orophin and Rumil would be staying with him tonight so that they could help each other get ready. The armors were heavy and help was needed.
Ellon who were already married spent this day with their families. Children ran around the training field watching the wardens' practice. This was exciting time to them, for this battle was a momentous one and history was in the making.
Haldir oversaw the practice with Orophin and Rumil helping him. Lord Celeborn was a master in his own right. He also oversaw a couple the regiments himself, instructing the young ones on what battle would be like.
Healers were gathered their supplies and march with the regiments. A total of thirteen were going to go. Six from Rivendell, and seven from Lorien. The healing skills would be needed.
Galadriel watched this all from her balcony, her thoughts playing on other things. Last night she slipped out to check on the progress of Arlothiyenne's armor, it would be done soon.
She turned away from the activities to lie down.
Arlothiyenne's Rest on the Anduin...
After the meeting of the Rohirrin riders, Arlothiyenne continued her trek to the Anduin river which was farther from where she should have been heading, more east. She sensed after realizing what Gandalf's true plan was, that it was needed. She wanted to give him the opportunity to complete his task. So she decided to rest upon the banks of the river.
After sitting up camp, she ate and looked out upon the terrain, which she remembered from all those years ago. It was flat, with small villages that rose up out of the long grass. The land hilly, rocky in some places, and flat on others. The wind blew, causing the grass to sway above her the birds flew, their calls sounded in her ears. It had not changed much at all since she was just a child.
When her parents entered these lands, with her in tow, she had not been given the chance to see the plateau city of Edoras, but only saw it from a distance. The current King's great-grandfather, twice turned, she had never met, but had heard that he was kind, and seemed quite upset that she had not been found all those years ago. Her thoughts strayed to Theoden, and wondered what he was like. Would he have even heard of her? Would there be any record of the child she once was, and was lost?
She laid there, resting. Soon she would be in a nice soft bed, or at least she hoped so.
N/A..one more chapter of the skipping back and forth..then pan out...this story is reaching the crunching point...so much more to read...
NEXT Up: Arlothiyenne see things that deeply embeds the need to move on and do her destiny...Evils is cast from a king, and meeting a wayward man...
