AN: Hey everyone! Italics means they are speaking Elvish. Also, there are general corrections to grammar and what not, some dialogue fixes and general improvement to the story. I hope you enjoy!

Chapter 37

When I opened my eyes, it was still dark outside. I felt my head move slightly as I looked up and could not help but smile at the handsome sleeping face of Haldir. Nothing happened the night before but I could not help but imagine what it would have felt like. My cheeks burned as my body became hot as I muzzled into him. I felt his arm around my waist tighten and a small smile appeared on my face. Our legs were intertwined under the covers as I closed my eyes and inhaled his scent. Like always, he smelt of sunshine and pine needles.

Never in my wildest dreams I thought I would find a love like we shared. Especially how the men in my world acted, I never thought I would find someone like Haldir. Strong. Fierce. Honorable. Chivalrous. Absolutely too handsome for words to describe. One look could send them sparking with delight. His voice could send them to the edge. A touch could light them on fire. It was the best feeling in the entire world that I never wanted to end.

As I looked out of the window in front of me, the moonlight shining in the night sky, I felt the necklace around my neck grow hot. I touched it softly until I felt an unease settle in the room. I sat up partially, listening for whatever was about to happen when I heard yells coming from the hall. I sat up completely waking Haldir in the process. His blue-grey eyes held confusion until his gaze landed on mine. I stood quickly as we ran out of the door, my hand touching my side as we ran to the room where the yelling was happening. When we entered, we saw Gandalf throw his cloak over the big piece of marble which I now knew to be called the Palantír. Merry was kneeling beside a petrified looking Pippin and Aragorn was lying on the floor, unconscious. What in the hell happened in here?!

I quickly went to Aragorn's side, concerned etched onto my face as Haldir made his way over to Gandalf and Pippin. I placed my hand on Aragorn's forehead, moving his hair out of the way as I looked up at Legolas who knelt in front of me, his eyes filled with concern as well.

"What happened?" I asked him as he glanced over to the Palantír. I knew that thing was going to be trouble. Legolas did not say anything else. But I could tell that the Palantír made him uneasy. I glanced over my shoulder, noticing that a small crowd surrounded Pippin, Gandalf and Haldir. Haldir looked over at me and nodded, letting me know that Pippin was okay.

I felt myself let out the breath I was holding as Aragorn started to stir. Both of them were okay and in my mind, that was what mattered the most. But I knew whatever happened just now, something big was going to happen. I had no idea what it would be but I knew that the peace we had was going to be short lived.

We found ourselves in the Golden Hall the same morning with King Théoden and the others. I stood in between Haldir and Boromir as Gandalf told us what happened a few hours before. In the end, it turns out that Pippin was a nosy fool who ended up touching Palantír. And in doing so, met Sauron himself. Gandalf explained the Pippin saw some of Sauron's plans and then was tortured for not telling him about the Ring, which is when Haldir and I came in. During the story, I kept glancing over at the two Hobbits with concern. Merry looked deep in thought and serious and Pippin had guilt and worry etched on his face.

"There was no lie in Pippin's eyes. A fool… but an honest fool he remains. He told Sauron nothing of Frodo and the Ring." Gandalf said as I let out a sigh of relief.

"Sauron is still in the dark. That's good news." I said as Gandalf nodded. We still had an advantage over Sauron.

"Yes, we've been strangely fortunate, Esperanza. Pippin saw in the Palantír a glimpse of the enemy's plan. Sauron moves to strike the city of Minas Tirith." Gandalf finished as I looked over at Boromir. He was from Gondor. Minas Tirith was his home. I knew this wasn't going to be easy for him to hear. I saw as he tensed, his eyes filled with worry. I reached out and touched his arm in support. He glanced over at me and gave me a nod in appreciation.

"His defeat at Helm's Deep showed our enemy one thing. He knows the heir of Elendil has come forth." Everyone looked over at Aragorn. "Men are not as weak as he supposed." I felt myself getting pumped up at Gandalf's words. "There is courage still, strength enough to perhaps to challenge him. Sauron fears this." And he should fear this. The Race of Men had hope once more. He should be shaking in his boots… if he had any. "He will not risk the peoples of Middle Earth uniting under one banner." I look over at King Théoden and Éomer, the bruise on his jaw visible in the light. He didn't meet my gaze but I knew he knew I was looking at him. "He will raze Minas Tirith to the ground before he sees a King return to the throne of Men. If the Beacons of Gondor are lit, Rohan must be ready for war." Gandalf said as I turned my attention back to King Théoden. I knew King Théoden would put his people first. And if anything was certain, it seemed like he was angry that Gondor did not coming to his people aid.

"Tell me… why should we ride to the aid of those who did not come to ours?" He asked as I looked between him and Gandalf. "What do we owe Gondor?" King Théoden finished, the group was silent. I glanced around at everyone but I saw no one was going to say anything. I felt myself becoming irritated. If no one was going to say something, then I would. To hell with the consequences.

"We need to remember that we are at war." I said as I felt all eyes on me. I kept my eyes on King Théoden, remembering his words from last night when he spoke to me about Éomer. "We cannot let pride or past slights dictate what we should do now. Gondor is the first line of defense. If Gondor falls, Rohan will be next. After Rohan, darkness will spread until all of Middle Earth is dead or enslaved." I said as King Théoden met my gaze. "You have to do what is right, your majesty. And you know that coming to Gondor's aid is the right thing to do, not only for your people but for the generations to come." King Théoden nodded as I gave him a light bow, his blue eyes reflecting on my words as he walked away, Éomer following behind him. I looked over at Haldir to see him looking at me, his blue-grey eyes filled with pride at my boldness and words.

"I will go." Aragorn said as the group turned to each other.

"No!" Gandalf said before swiftly turning his gaze upon me. I looked at him confused as he pointed an old finger at me. "And no to you as well." My mouth dropped open at the thought. What was he talking about?!

"I wasn't going to say anything." I stated in shock. The idea didn't even have time to form. Gandalf gave a half smirk at me.

"I know you well enough. I know how your mind works." Gandalf stated pointed to my head slightly before letting it grasp his staff in an all-knowing manner.

"That's cheating." I stated as I crossed my arms across my chest. Damn that wizard and his mind reading abilities.

"They must be warned!" Aragorn said, pulling our conversation back to the problem at present.

"They will be. You must come to Minas Tirith by another road." Gandalf said in his normal cryptic tone with his equally cryptic look on his face. It was the face that showed that he knew something but wasn't going to tell anyone, no matter what. We would have to figure it out on our own. "Follow the river and look to the black ships." Gandalf said, provided as Aragorn nodded in understanding. "Understand this, things are now in motion that cannot be undone. I ride for Minas Tirith." Gandalf said as he turned his attention to Merry and Pippin that were sitting away from our group. I had a feeling about what was going to come out of his mouth. "And I won't be going alone."

I knew it.

"Okay… now remember to stay with Gandalf." I said as I made sure that Pippin was bundled. Gandalf only gave me a few minutes to pack something small. I had a pack in hand, rolling up a blanket, putting food and water into the pack. Pippin wasn't look at me, his eyes were on the floor. I knew he felt guilty for what he had done. But I hated him see him beating himself over it. "Pippin…" I started but he didn't look up. I knelt down and placed a finger under his chin, raising it up so that his eyes met mine. "Stop beating yourself up over this. You made a mistake. That is all."

"But I am such a fool, Zaza. Why do I do foolish things?!" He asked and I didn't have an answer.

"I can't answer that for you. All I can say is that you make up for what you have done. Get those beacons lit. Stay safe. Please." I said as I heard hurried footsteps. I saw Gandalf making his way out of the Golden Hall with Merry and Haldir behind him. Haldir looked over at me, giving me a nod. It was time.

"I'll see you soon Pip." I said as I pulled him into a strong hug before releasing them, standing and following behind Haldir with Pippin at my side. I stopped at the doors, sending Pippin a reassuring smile as he followed. He looked over his shoulder at me and I gave him a wave. My heart was in my throat as I watched them go.

"Do not fret, my friend. We will take good care of him." Boromir said as I looked over at him to see him packed, shield on his back. What?

"Are you leaving too?!" I asked in shock as Boromir sent me a small nod in confirmation. I felt my heart sink again the second time that day. Both Pippin and Boromir gone? This day just keeps on getting better and better.

"Gandalf believes that I could influence my father into lighting the beacons." Boromir explained. "I must return home and defend my people." Boromir finished and I nodded in understanding. I knew he had missed his home. I knew he wanted to return and if have been in his shoes and my home was going to be attacked, I would be going as well. I wouldn't take that away from him. I had no right to ask him to stay, if I was going to ask which I wasn't.

"Be safe, Boromir." I said as I pulled him into a tight hug. He returned it, placing a brotherly kiss on my head.

"I will, my friend. I will see you soon." He said as he let go and took the stairs by two. "And try not to miss me too much." He hollered over his shoulder. I laughed as he continued down, shaking my head at his audacity. I raised my hands to shield my mouth as I hollered back.

"I hate you!" I yelled as it was his turn to laugh. He made it down the stairs, turning around to look at me while walking backwards.

"No, you don't!" He yelled back with a wave. I waved back as a sad smile appeared on my face. I watched as Fréama greeted him at the stables, embracing him before watching him enter. My heart went out to the sweet woman. It was evident that she cared for Boromir and he for her. I took in a deep breath, watching as they rode out of the stables and out of Edoras. I sent a small prayer to whoever was listening. I prayed that they get there safely. I prayed they would get the beacons lit. And I prayed that King Théoden would see reason and do the right thing when the time came.

I found myself only in the late afternoon. It had been hours since Boromir, Gandalf and Pippin left for Gondor. Haldir was off with the Galadhrim, preparing them for the possibility of going to war, leaving me to my own devices. As might be expected, I got bored. So, I took it upon myself to explore the Golden Hall. I made my way through the hall, looking at the architecture, the paintings, sculptures and various banners when I stumbled on a massive study. I couldn't stop myself from going inside. The little nerdy girl inside me jumping for joy at idea of exploring a library. It definitely looked a man cave with books, mounted animal heads and animal skin chairs. The room was filled to the brim with books, maps, and free flowing parchment. I touched the spines of the books lightly, enjoying the feel under my callous fingertips.

"Lady Esperanza?" I heard from behind me. I jumped, turning around to see who in the hell cared me to death. I met the blue eyes of King Théoden, laughing lightly at the idea of him seeing me, a warrior in my own right, jumping out of my skin. His eyes shined with humor as he smiled in apology.

"Forgive me King Théoden. I didn't you enter." I said with a slight bow. King Théoden smiled before waving it off.

"It is alright, milady. How can I help you?" He asked as I looked at him confused. I glanced around the room, noticing a desk all the way to the back of the room. My eyes widened as I moved to the door.

"This is your personal study." I said in realization, my cheeks going red with embarrassment. I just barged into this man's personal study. I was so rude. "I am so sorry to intrude. I will leave you." I said as his hand catching my elbow, a kind smile on his face.

"Think nothing of it." He said as I sent him an apologetic smile. He waved me in, walking to his desk. "Come. This old man can use a distraction from his darken thoughts." He said as I slowly followed. My hand laid on my sword casually as I looked around his study.

"This is a beautiful study." I said as King Théoden looked around, a small smile on his face. "It's quite a collection." I complimented as King Théoden looked over his study, a proud gleam in his eyes.

"My forefathers worked hard on collecting volumes that would add value to the King and his people. Though this place hold vast wealth of knowledge, I often come for the solitude." He explained as he motioned me to sit on a sofa like chair in front of the fireplace. I sat down carefully as he sat across from me. He had two mugs off to the side with some sort of alcohol. He poured the amber liquid into the two mugs before offering one to me. I accepted it with a smile.

"Thank you." I said, taking a sip from the mug. It tasted like whiskey. He watched as I sent him a smile, his head shaking as he too took a drink from his mug. I bet he was expecting some kind of reaction to the drink but like I said before, my family drank a lot. I had a high tolerance for alcohol and enjoyed most of the heavy liquor. "When I first came to this land, I immediately looked to books to teach me what I didn't know." I explained as he listened. "Books are a great way for expanding the mind and view situations from different perspectives." I said as he nodded along.

"Yet none have prepared me for this moment." He said and I watched him look into the flames. He had such a great responsibility. He was a King of an entire country and we were asking him to sacrifice his people's lives in war. I couldn't begin to fathom what that felt like, to have their deaths on his conscience. I wouldn't be able to endure that kind of burden.

"I can only imagine the burden you carry. To have so many lives depending on you to make the right decision… it is a great responsibility." I said as I felt obligated to explain my words from before. "I hope you know that my words today… they were not meant to be hostile. I do not assume to know your burden. They were only meant to enlighten and to aid you in your decision." I explained as he sent me an appreciative nod.

"You gave me reason to think about the future. I took no offense." He said as I took another sip from my drink. "It is fortunate that you came here. I have a proposition for you." He said and I was caught off guard. What would he have to offer me? Better yet, what do I have that we would want?

"A proposition? I am intrigued." I said as King Théoden smiled, taking a sip of his mug before placing it on a small table and leaning forward.

"As you know, your guidance at Helm's Deep made a difference in my men. I want to inquire if you would consider guiding them further in their training." He asked and I raised my eyebrows at him.

"Seriously?" I asked as he nodded in confirmation.

"Yes. My men trust you. Éomer is there commander and he has earned their respect and loyalty. But he has noticed that they could benefit from your presence and your guidance. There is fear of what is to come and it has hindered their progress. And those lives that we lost have dampened their spirits. Éomer has asked me to acquire your guidance." Éomer did what now?

"Éomer asked this?" I questioned, not sure if I heard him. King Théoden sent me a nod as I sat back in my seat, shock on my face.

"Yes. He loves his men. He loves his people. He values his duty and take great honor in protecting all those he loves and cares for. His personal feelings do not sway his judgment." King Théoden said as I still sat there, stunned.

"I didn't mean to imply it did. This is an unexpected request." I said as I thought it over. Until the beacons were lit, I had nothing else to do. The thought of just sitting here twiddling my thumbs didn't sit well with me. If I could do something productive, then I would glad do so. Even if that meant washing dishes or doing laundry, it was better than doing nothing. "If you believe it would help, I would gladly help in any way I can." I said and King Théoden smiled, his eyes gleamed in gratitude.

"Thank you, milady. I am grateful for your aid." He said with a grateful smile.

"You're welcome." I said as he lifted his mug and I did the same. We touched mugs lightly before drinking them, the unofficial way of saying the deal was struck. We both sat back in our seats, enjoying the comfortable silence that sat between us. I watched as the fire danced in the air and the wood cracking as it burned. This was the most relaxed I have been in quite a while.

"If I may be so bold, I hardly know a thing about you. All I know is that you hail from a different land. You fight like a most seasoned warrior. You are bold with your opinions and give your compassion freely." He said, breaking the silence. I looked over at him as he continued. His blue eyes met mine as I waited for him to ask what he has been wanting to ask me since we first met. "Aragorn and Gandalf told me it was lost to you but you would still speak of it if asked. Where are you from?" King Théoden asked as I smiled sadly.

"I will gladly tell you where I come from. The memories are bittersweet but it is worth the pain." I said as he turned his attention towards me, his eyes shining in anticipation.

"I would be honored to hear them." He said as I smiled before telling him my story.

I didn't tell him about how I came here from a different realm. I thought that portion of the story would be too much on an already burdened man. But I did tell him about my family. I told him about how my land was the land of opportunity. I told him stories that came into mind and he listened. He was enthralled with learning about me, my culture, and how I was the way I was. And I was glad that I could take his mind off of his duty for that time. Hopefully, this would help him decide what to do when the time came.