disclaimer: I do not own anything.
Enjoy!
Chapter 15
"Edoras, and the Golden Hall of Meduseld." Gandalf announced as they stayed perched on top of a tall hill over looking the vast land before them, surveying the huge city ahead. A single large building placed on the highest peak lined with flags. "There rules Theoden, King of Rohan, whose mind has been over thrown. Saruman's hold over King Theoden is now very strong." Leading them onto the marked path through the field, the six companions made their way towards the wooden entrance.
"Be careful what you say, do not look for welcome here."
Entering the grim town situated below the large regal building perched on the highest plateau, the companions took note of the silent welcome they are receiving. Left and right the people of Rohan continued to stare on. Their emotionless faces and grim expressions giving off a vibe that they had not had met anyone worth welcoming in a while. The people of Rohan all felt weary of the newcomers, their stares lingering on the white wizard and the single lady traveling among the group of men. "You'll find more cheer in a graveyard." Gimli commented, earning him a silent snicker from Paul who tried to hide it by clearing his throat. The latter offering smiles and greeting that were unreciprocated.
Reaching the end of the long winding road and stopping beneath a set of stairs carved onto the rocky side of the cliff, the members of the fellowship proceeded to climb off their horses and continued their journey upwards towards the Golden Hall, their imminent goal was to have counsel with the King.
"I cannot allow you before Theoden, King so armed, Gandalf Greyham. By order of…Grima Wormtongue." A middle aged knight stepped forward to greet them, trying to put up a facade of discipline and order but his sigh and despondence clear as day, his own dislike of the person he has just mention obvious as he almost spit the name out with disdain.
Turning his attention to his companions, Gandalf instructed them to surrender all weapons they are carrying. One by one, Aragorn, Gimli, Legolas, Paul and even Alex were relieved of their blades. Both the ranger and the elf the last to empty their person for the amount of hidden weapons concealed. "Your staff." The knight gesturing to Gandalf's white staff.
"Oh. You would not part an old man from his walking stick." Reaching for Legolas as if the wizard needed any further assistance in mobility. Placing a little more weight onto the elf's arm and leaning a bit to seem convincing.
The group entered the dark hall. The windows shut, the curtains pulled over them. The entire place reminded Alex of Moria. There were people littered about the place, some wearing the Rohan seal and some who weren't. It was the latter that gave Alex the jitters. Hearing the doors close and the lock secured in place, Alex was pulled closer by the elf, "Stay close." His voice barely above a whisper but she heard him none the less. Nodding her head to acknowledge that she heard him and proceeding to walk towards the figure hunched over what was clearly a throne.
"My Lord, Gandalf the Grey is coming." A sickeningly sinister whisper echoed through the hall, like the man beside the king was not even attempting at mockery as his gaze sweep over the companions and land on the King again.
Gandalf was not buying the act, with determination he continued to stand in front of the King, ignoring the little weasel nestled looking comfortable beside the throne. "The courtesy of your hall is somewhat has lessened of late, Theoden King."
Another whisper wheezed out of the slimy looking man and Alex felt the hair on her arm stand as he locked gazes with her even though he was addressing his liege. "He is not welcome."
"Why should I welcome you, Gandalf storm crow?" A gurgled question but a direct one was addressed to Mithrandir who stood studying the King.
"A just question my liege." This must be Grima Wormtongue, Alex mused disgusted by the man's oily hair, pale complexion and steely eyes as he studied everyone. Looking around, she noticed that everyone in the hall was dubiously staring at them. A wave of trepidation ran through her as she spotted a group of men following their every move. Unable to voice what she saw, she gripped Legolas' hand hoping he'd understand what she was trying to say.
The elf prince understood, following her gaze to see what she was looking at, he also found Aragorn studying the group albeit subtly from his peripheral. "Stay close to Gandalf."
"Late is the hour in which this conjurer chooses to appear. Lathspell spell I name him. Ill news is an ill guest." Alex was startled as the Grima moved from where he was seated, his movements creepy yet swift reminding her of slithering snake.
"Be silent! Keep your forked tongue behind you teeth. I have not passed through fire and water to bandy crooked words with a witless worm."Gandalf's patience waned thin as he pointed his staff at Grima.
"His staff!" Grima wailed backing away from the wizard, "I told you to take the wizard's staff!"
As soon as Grima cried out, the group of men descended on her friends. Alex tried to move out of the way, but not wanting to not be of use either. Aragorn and Legolas were both locked in a fight with a few of the men, while Gimli tried to fight off two man at his side.
"Theoden, son of Thengel. Too long have you sat in the shadows." Gandalf chanted, raising his hand towards the slumped form of the king.
Out of the corner of her eye, Alex spotted Grima worming his way heading for the exit. Like a slithering snake indeed, he tried to remain undetected as he weaseled his way between the gathering crowd. Running to him and pulling him to the center of the commotion, "Where the hell do you think you're going?" Alex hissed, pulling by the man by his sleeve.
"Milady, you should know better than to challenge a man." Grima sneered, his disgusting breathe wafting in her face, his rotting teeth gleaming at her. Paul and Gimli moved to grab Grima, preventing him from running away. "I would stay still if I were you."
"Hearken to me! I release you from the spell." As the fight broke out behind him, Gandalf continued his debacle with the power that had a hold on King Theoden.
Grima seemed to have one last trick up his sleeve as he went to grab Alex's forearm. Feeling ice cold fingers grab her Alex tried to wretch her hand free. "A gift from Saruman." He hissed just as he was pulled away from Alex by Paul and Gimli.
Feeling the freezing cold climb up her arm, Alex frantically pulled her sleeves up sure to find Grima's hand imprint on it only to find nothing but her pale skin.
Menacing laugh broke through Alex's bewildered gaze as she turned her attention forward. "You have no power here, Gandalf the Grey."
Gandalf pressed on, his own powers pushing the old king back on his seat, "Argh!"
"I will draw you, Saruman. As poison is drawn from a wound." With the group of wild men successfully intercepted, the entire crowd had now turned their attention to the commotion in front.
Alex was pushed out of the way by a lady as she rushed forward, her blonde hair waving in the wind as she struggled against Aragorn's hold her panic at seeing her uncle is threatened, she tries to go to him only be held back. "If I go, Theoden dies."
Gandalf moved his staff sharply, and Theoden flies back against his chair. "You did not kill me. You will not kill him."
"Rohan is mine!"
"Be gone!" Gandalf smites Théoden as he lunges at him. The King was thrown back into his chair and lets out a moan and as he slumps forward. Unable to bear it any longer, the Lady runs to her uncle's side as he falls. Like a movie in reverse slow motion Théoden's head rises again and his face begins to change gradually into that of a much younger-looking man. Clarity and recognition returning to his eyes.
"I know your face…Eowyn...Eowyn." studying his niece's face as she tearfully regarded him, his own memory slowly returning to him. Moving his eyes across the room his gaze landed on the white figure standing before him, "Gandalf?"
"Breathe the free air again, my friend."
"Dark have been my dreams of late." Theoden's voice was laced with confusion, his eyes continued to scan the crowd that had gathered before him.
"Your fingers would remember their old strength better, if they grasp your sword." Gandalf offered, as he stepped aside to allow the same knight who welcomed them up the podium. Háma runs up with his sword as Théoden slowly reaches for it with trembling hands. He carefully wraps his fingers around it slowly and then draws it, gazing upon the shiny steel. In a corner, Gríma trembles and tries to escape but is pulled back by Gimli and Paul.
Suddenly, Théoden's gaze turns to Gríma.
In the natural order of things, parents are not meant to bury their children, yet through illness or accident, a parent's worst nightmare can and does occur. Unlike illness, painful as that kind of passage is, which gives some extended, quality time with the child, death by accident, suicide or murder offers no warning, no time to prepare. There is no time to process everything, no time to say good-bye. When death occurs in this way, it's often more damaging to those left behind; it's as if the invisible cords that connect one person to one another are abruptly and violently severed.
Losing a child in any way is probably the singular most devastating passage anyone could be asked to endure during a lifetime. Some people over the years still have not fully resolved the deaths of their children. And when that occurs, getting on with their own lives doesn't fully happen. While many others have made peace with their losses, others remain frozen in time forever grieving.
It was at Theodred's funeral that Alex understood her mother—or at least a piece—of what happened when she woke up all those years strapped to a bed with the thought that Alex almost took her own life. Watching King Theoden sullen and broken as they carefully lowered his son's body to the cave, that Alex understood the pain of a parent losing a child.
The funeral was hurried and was planned in haste as Theodred's cadaver had already started to decompose. It if were not for their arrival, Grima would not have even paid attention to the dead prince. Slowly the people who paid their respects to the deceased prince dwindled, leaving only the King and Gandalf and Alex by the grave.
"Simbelmynë. Ever has it grown on the tombs of my forebearers." Theoden solemnly contemplates, his gaze moving to the white wizard who stood a few meters beside him, "Now it shall cover the grave of my son. Alas, that these evil days should be mine. The young perish and the old linger. That I should live to see the last days of my house."
"Théodred's death was not of your making."
"No parent should have to bury their child." Théoden's voice breaks down as he starts to weep.
"He was strong in life. His spirit will find its way to the halls of your fathers. "Westu hál. Ferðu, Théodred, Ferðu." Gandalf offered in silent prayer, his head bowed down. Suddenly his attention was caught by a sound faraway. (Be-thou well. Go-thou, Théodred, go-thou.)
Alex gaze were sharp over the hill as she thought she heard horses hooves clear as day. Breaking over the setting sun, Alex spotted a lone horse, the two occupants looked fatigued and drained as the larger one seated behind fell to utter exhaustion. Without noticing, her legs took her to where the kids were and reached over, pulling the little boy to carry.
"Quickly, Alex, inside." Gandalf gestured for her to move along.
It was a couple of hours later that Alex found herself in a small bedroom provided for her by the lady of the Rohan—Eowyn—as she had learned her name. She was separated from the rest of the fellowship members. A bath was provided for her, as well as a change of clothes. The face of Eowyn as she studied the peculiar undergarment Alex wore brought her embarrassment and little amusement—of course!—ladies of this age do not wear panty and brassiere.
"Is it comfortable?" Eowyn's voice broke through Alex silent laughter, nodding her head to answer the lady's curiosity, "It is. and it provides much needed adequate airflow on warm days." Studying the curious lady whose cheeks had turned pink. Eowyn, as Alex came to realize, was younger than her by age. At eighteen, the lady of the house was forcibly matured due to the duties laid upon her.
"Your clothes will be washed, for the time being, I'll lend you one of my own." Eowyn cheerfully offered, handing her a powder blue long gown and the corresponding white chemise and simple cote. Her eyes however bulged at the site of—wooden slats?
"It's too tight." Alex gasped out as Eowyn proceeded to tie the constricting contraption around her torso, "It's suppose to be tight." Eowyn answered matter-of-factly.
"When do you think can I get my clothes back?"
"Once they dried."
"Tell again, why you have wooden slats sewn into your clothes?" Alex inhaled shapely as the said slat was digging into her hipbone. "We do not wear them to accentuate womanly curves, but it is worn to keep everything in place, prevent them from falling over."
"With the yards of fabric I am wearing, I doubt anything is falling over anytime soon."
"A woman's body is sinful. To incite a man's lust by exposing one's body or an image of it is damning of punishment. Women must always remain proper and regal." Eowyn grunted as she tied the last of the string that held the cote together before pulling the powder blue dress over it.
"How are the kids?" Deciding to change the topic to avoid offending Eowyn with all her moaning and bitching about her attire. Alex was grateful she was given the chance to clean herself up.
"The boy is awake now. A supper is being prepared for you and the rest of your companions at the great hall and the wizard had asked for counsel right away." Plaiting half of Alex's hair up, leaving the other half cascading down her back.
Leaving the room and feeling slightly dizzy from all the frock and frilly she had to put on, she met Paul by the hall leading to the dining. "Look at you!" Bowing for effect and playing a fake British accent. "Now I know where the tapestries went!"
"Shut up."
Laughing at Alex's obvious discomfort at her clothing, "Feisty aren't we? But seriously, we looked good. Now we actually look like we fit in."
"It's itchy and this damn thing's choking me—everywhere." Stretching her neck and trying to pull the long bell like sleeves down. The dress was squeezing her everywhere. Almost tripping a few times on the way to the hall as the ends of the gown got caught numerous times around her ankle. Paul snickered as he looked up his friend, Alex does look like a vision in blue but he knew that the gown was uncomfortable. Nothing in medieval is, for women.
"They had no warning. They were unarmed. Now the wildmen are moving through the Westfold, burning as they go. Rick, cot and tree." Eowyn declared.
"Where's mama—?"the young girl asked in urgency.
"Shh…" Alex rubbed the boy's back as he continued to stuff his face with soup and bread. Growing up alone, Alex sympathized with the children. Leaving the only home they knew for uncharted territory. Their situation suddenly became more morose for her. How many children were left homeless and orphans because of this ordeal? How many children were killed and slaughtered just because of pure evil? Now, more than ever, Alex felt the imminent danger they found themselves in.
"This is but a taste of the terror that Saruman will unleash. All the more potent or he is driven now by fear of Sauron. Ride out and meet him head on. Draw him away from your women and children." Gandalf leaned forward and placing a hand on Théoden's chair. The King looked at his hand warily."You must fight."
"You have two thousand good men riding north as we speak. Éomer is loyal to you. His men will return and fight for their king." Aragorn spoke loudly, pipe in his hand. Alex made to stand with the fellowship, with Paul and Gimli sitting at the table. The dwarf still not finished with his meal.
Alex swayed slightly, and caught Legolas' arm who was standing beside her. Without missing a beat, Legolas studied her, "Are you alright?"
Nodding her head feeling embarrassment color her cheeks, Alex straightened her spine. Redirecting her attention back at the discussion. As much as she wanted to take a seat, the slats would dig onto her hip, the damn chemise was already chaffing her by the waist brought upon by the tight cote, she would not be surprised to find bruises on her hips in the morning.
"They will be three hundred leagues from here by now. Éomer cannot help us." The King firmly answered, "I know what it is that you want of me. But I will not bring further death to my people. I will not risk open war."
"Open war is upon you. Whether you would risk it or not." Aragorn reasoned, while Alex swayed again, this time Legolas caught her. "Alex?"
Sweat began to bead on her forehead, her breathe starting to come out in gasps. Turning her panicked eyes to Legolas, she breathed out silently not wanting to attract anyone else's attention."I can't breathe."
Grabbing her arm and placing his other hand the small of her back, Legolas lead her away from the hall. Walking further into a secluded indentation by the hallway, perfectly concealing them from anyone's view. The nook was cramped fitting the two them just right, the light dimmed, only the hanging torch scattered strategically throughout the hallway provided them with little illumination, which did not matter to the elf since his eyes can see perfectly in the dark. "I…I need you to.." Alex tried to voice out her predicament, pointing to her abdomen while also trying to race her breathing.
"You need me to…what?" His brow furrowing in concern and confusion,
"The cote." Alex grunted out. She was unprepared however when Legolas place both his hands on her hips and gracefully turned her around, facing her to the stone wall. The dress was making it difficult for her to breathe but it was Legolas touch that took her breath away.
His large hands splayed across her back, making a fiery trail as it traced along her shoulder down to her spine, feeling his eyes roam around her from behind. "Legolas?"
"Hush." They were whispering not wanting to attract any attention.
"What are you doing?" Feeling Legolas bend down, "I thought with your experience with women, you'd be an expert." A sharp intake of breathe as she felt Legolas' chest press on her back as he leant down standing a foot taller than her, his hot breath fanning over her neck and ear, "Try not to squirm, love." His husky voice sending shivers down her spine, her eyes almost closing on their own accord until she spotted something glint—a silver dagger!
"Wha—" panic filled her as she tried to move around but Legolas held her firm, "I said don't move." His hand trailed under her gown, between the gown and chemise mapping out the intricate braid of her cote underneath and in one swift flick of his wrist and a snap of the string, Alex felt air rush her lungs as she took a long inhale. Slumping forward, her cheek pressing on the cold stone that provided much needed cooling on her flushed face. Opening her eyes again, she saw Legolas waved the dagger in her eyes, "You were talking about 'expertise'?"
Refusing to be baited, Alex remained silent letting the stone cool her heated cheeks, that is until she heard a snicker behind her. "Are you laughing?…at me?" Her face looked incredulous as she turned her head to look at Legolas behind her, his face looking young and boyish. Another snicker and Alex turned swiftly round, disbelief and anger mixed, "How dare yo—" his hand clamped down on her mouth before she could finish her tirade, his other hand cushioning her head as he pressed her against the wall, his chest pressed deliciously against her engulfing her in his warmth, his face close as he looked into her eyes, his own orbs flashing in concealed mirth. His smell intoxicating with every breathe she took. Sandalwood, vanilla and leather, musky and heady—all around testosterone.
Alex felt goosebumps erupt across her skin as his hand slid slowly from her nape to her back, her eyes following his hand as he place and index finger to his pink lips indicating her to stay silent.
Her fury forgotten as she strained her ear to hear approaching footsteps, horror dawned on her that they are going to be discovered, hearing the footsteps become louder and louder as it neared them, the man did not even look up as he hurried past where they were expertly hidden by the nook, the sound of his steps lessening the further he went.
Shaking her face away from his grip Alex eyes turned blazing, "You will not tell anyone about this."
Moving even closer, running his knuckle against her rosy, white, smooth cheek, his gaze boring down into her green orbs. While his other hand holding her waist firm, Legolas bent low, their noses almost touching his eyes moving from her to her pink inviting lips.
Alex could not help the pounding of her heart, her breath coming out in sharp gasps as her eyes closed of their accord in anticipation of his lips, "It'll be out little secret." His husky voice wafting against her lips before she felt the blast of cold air as he left her panting…and disappointed? Her eyes snapped open as her eyes scanned the vacated spot where Legolas use to stand.
"Come on, before they realize our absence."
Her fury returned as she realized what had just happened, noticing with intense glare as Legolas tried to reign in his laughter but the amusement was dancing in his blue eyes. Alex followed him back the hallway feeling relief that she was able to breath again while also feeling hot and bothered about the whole encounter. Touching a hand to her cheek feeling the spot where he stroked her.
They returned back to the hall, their presence not even noted by any of the occupants, but Paul who offered another raised brow at Alex. She tried to school her features into a calm demeanor, ignoring the questioning glare from her friend, while she also dared a glance at the elf who stood intense as he listened intently at the discussion as if he had not missed anything. How does he do that?
Alex's attention was jolted back to the present when Gimli took a drink and burped.
"Then what is the king's decision?"
0-0-0
"By order of the king, the city must empty. We make for the refuge of Helm's Deep. Do not burden yourselves with treasures. Take only what provisions you need."
The next morning, people are moving about, gathering their belongings and preparing to move. Theoden's decision to flee to Helm's Deep had his subjects divided. Some of his council agreed it was a best course of action, while the other half debated that they should stand and fight.
Gandalf on the other hand was furious with the King's decision to flee. Together with Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli they walked towards the stables.
"Helm's Deep! They flee to the mountains when they should stand and fight. Who will defend them if not their king." Gimli commented as they made their way, all round them people were frantically weaving in and out, all in panicked disarray as they scramble to pack their meager belongings to take with them.
"He's only doing what he thinks is best for his people."Aragorn supplied, following Gandalf closely as they enter the stables only the find the situation no fairer than what was happening outside. "Helm's Deep has saved them in the past."
"There is no way out of that ravine. Théoden is walking into a trap. He thinks he's leading them to safety. What they will get is a massacre. Théoden has a strong will but I fear for him. I fear for the survival of Rohan. He will need you before the end, Aragorn. The people of Rohan will need you."Gandalf was firm, gazing intently at Isildur's heir, "The defenses have to hold."
"They will hold." Aragorn's assurance did not bring any light to the wizard's weary eyes.
Turning to Shadowfax and gently stroking his mane, "The Grey Pilgrim... that's what they used to call me. Three hundred lives of men I've walked this earth and now I have no time. With luck, my search will not be in vain." Expertly stepping over the stirrup and hoisting himself up onto the magnificent beast he turned his attention again back to Aragorn, "Look to my coming at first light on the fifth day. At dawn, look to the East."
Standing behind and opening the gate of the stable, Aragorn instructed. "Go."
Legolas jumps back as Gandalf rides out of the stable and over the plains of Rohan. "Where is Paul and Alex?" Gimli's gruff voice interrupted them, as both Aragorn and Legolas were busy putting on the saddle on their horses. Aragorn turning to help a stable boy take control of a beautiful brown mare, finding out it was the late King's Son's horse—Brego. After instructing Eowyn to set the horse free, the three of them along with Eowyn turned tightening the straps and proceeding then to lead Hasufel, Arod and Midnight out of the stables.
The commotion round them seemed to slow down, the noise dying down as Legolas watched in unconcealed awe as Alex made her way outside the main doors of the great hall, with Paul. The morning sun casting its golden rays making her skin look even more creamy and soft. But it was her hair that he caught his attention.
Alex's thick dark lock were pulled back, three fine braids lining each side of her head, a thick one running from the center while the rest of her hair were pulled back into a high design revealing her long slender neck, exposing more of her ethereal face , and her striking green eyes framed with long dark lashes on display.
"She would not wear the riding gown. Insisting instead on those breeches, and tunic. Said she rather prefer comfort than style." Eowyn explained she too was enamored by the look Alex was serving. "Odd however, that she would not how to untie a cote, she apologized this morning when she returned it with the strings cut."
Legolas' ears tinged pink as his attention was caught by the last of Eowyn's statement. Feeling Aragorn's nudge as the ranger cleared his throat behind him, fully aware that the ranger had an inclination of the person responsible for the state of Alex's cote.
"Most peculiar indeed." Eowyn continued as she admired Alex from afar, who continued to make her way down the steps, "If I didn't know any better, I would have thought she an elf." Leaving the three to make her way around the crowd.
It was Aragorn's turn to get uncomfortable as he cleared his throat again, having remembered what Gandalf told him. Observing Alex move and maneuver her way around the bustling crowd, the ranger noted how she resembled an elf the more he looked closer. Dread filled him as he suddenly realized someone would have to break the news to the elf prince, and without Gandalf here, it would have to be him.
It was midday when the Rohirrim refugees made a heading towards Helm's Deep. Gimli was sat on a horse, chatting with Éowyn who is leading it by the reins. "It's true you don't see many Dwarf women. And in fact, they are so alike in voice and appearance, that they're often mistaken for Dwarf men." Éowyn smiles sharing a look with Alex who had decided to walk with them, and looks back at Aragorn.
Gesturing to his chin and whispers "It's the beards…."
"And this, in turn, has given rise to the belief that there are no Dwarf women. And that dwarves just spring out of holes in the ground!" Eowyn's laugh was infectious as she and Alex studied Gimli in amusement. "I didn't know that. I thought dwarfs were just aloof and loved jewels more than anything." Alex commented teasingly.
"Which is of course ridiculous… Whoa!" The horse suddenly reared up and gallops away as Éowyn loses her hold on the reins. Gimli falls off after a short distance and lands with a loud thump.
"Ooh!"
"Oh my god!" Both Alex and Eowyn fishing over to Gimli but the dwarf simply waved them off. "It's alright, it's alright. Nobody panic. That was deliberate. It was deliberate."
"You could've broken your back!" Alex exclaimed while Éowyn helps Gimli up, laughing as she brushes him off and looks back at Aragorn with the sun behind her and the wind in her hair. At that particular moment, Aragorn seemed enchanted by Éowyn's light-hearted image.
Alex noted the exchange and felt suspicion start to spread in her. This is not good.
It was late in the afternoon that they stopped to make camp, halfway through their journey, Alex and Paul together with the rest of the members of the fellowship decided to camp a few meters away from everyone else. While Gimli continued to chat and entertain the people of Rohan, Alex and Paul thought it was best to relax. Aragorn and Legolas on the other hand were busy making last minute division of patrol and night watch with King Theoden and the other Rohan soldiers.
"So, wanna tell me what's been going on between you and the elf?" Paul was not exactly known for his subtlety.
"I am actually surprise you held out this far." Alex laughed trying to avoid the subject,
"What I'm actually surprised about is that you are not talking to me about this." Paul stated matter-of-factly giving Alex a serious stare. "I mean, what about Tom?"
Alex was startled that Paul mentioned her fiancé, or the fact that she was just reminded that she was still engaged. "You haven't even thought about him since we arrived here, have you?" Paul asked casually. Already knowing the answer just by gauging Alex's horrified expression.
"Wow, Lex." Paul's disbelief clear as day. "I mean…I..don't..not even for five minutes?"
"I told Legolas I was engaged."
Paul's brows shot up to his hairline, "What did he say?" His eyes moving about the large camp hoping to spot the elf. At Alex's blank stare, Paul raised his hands already imagining how it went down. "So, what now?"
Alex moved to lay on the grass, her eyes sweeping across the sky, the sun had already set, the night sky was clear of clouds, making the stars glitter even more clearly. After several more minutes of silence, Alex finally answered, "He wants to work it out. By the end of our stay here in middle earth, if I still want to forget him, he'll get his father to agree to dissolve our marriage."
"So, you're really married?" Alex nodded, her face contorted in a grimace at the thought, but a thought still lingered in her mind. If the thought of marriage to the Elf prince was really abhorrent, why can't she find any reason to regret it?
"Pfft." Paul stared at his friend, feeling the weight of the news, he moved to follow Alex's position on the ground. Their shoulders and heads touching as they both stared at the dark sky. "It could get worse."
"Like how?" Alex asked incredulously.
"I mean, you could have been married to a tree…?" Paul said laughing making Alex guffaw as as well. "So, what's up with the mangled corset?" Paul followed with a raise eyebrow.
In mortification Alex, covered her face and tried to plant her head on the grass, "It was a cote and it was horrifying! I told you that damn thing was choking me. I almost fainted twice."
"Hmm.." An amused expression on her best friend's face,
"I had to ask him to loosen it for me. How was I suppose to know he was going to cut the damn thing in two?!" Alex hissed.
"Kinky. I like it." Alex gasped, horrified and amused at the same time. "What? I'd tap that." Paul answered matter-of-factly. Alex groaned, cover her face agin at Paul's nonchalant approach at everything.
Alex fell silent again, mulling over her thoughts at her current situation with the elf. "I can be a mature individual right? I mean, we're both adults, there is nothing wrong with being friends with your ex—"
"It's called 'co-parenting' and that is if you have kids together, which I'm assuming you don't." Paul remarked. "Lex, there is clearly an attraction between you two. You guys are like magnets, if you haven't noticed. He moves when you move and vice versa, you run to him when things start to get ugly or unsure. He's intuitive and attentive when it comes to you. And the creepy part is, I don't think you both even do it on purpose."
"Ugh. You're not really helping." Alex tried to block out what Paul was saying. He was making it even more confusing. "I mean, even if I wanted to—which I don't—how is this even going to work? He lives here, and I go back to my own world."
"Hmm.. there's that."
"The best rational thing to do is to end this." Alex concluded, feeling satisfied with her thought process.
Paul observed his friend, her shoulders slumping at the what she said. Paul rolled his eyes at Alex, who was she even trying to convince, because Paul was not buying it. Alex still looked troubled. "Lex, there is something you should know…I gave him a piece of my mind."
"What?!" Alex almost made herself dizzy with how fast she turned to Paul. "You were passed out from exhaustion and he was asking too many questions."
"What was he asking about?" Panic lacing her tone. "Lex, he put you through so much. He needed to know. And he needed to know what I think about it." Paul answered raising one sardonic brow effectively shutting her up. Alex groaned again, covering her face with her hands as she slumped back onto the soft grass.
"Paul, he's the type that doesn't accept defeat. You just challenged him." Alex said defeated. her voice muffled by her hands the are still covering her face.
"Maybe. We'll see how everything works out." Paul smirked turning his attention back to the camp laid out in front of them. "How are you so calm about this?" Alex asked incredulous.
"How can you be so selfish?" Paul countered, when Alex remained silent he continued, "Lex, we are in the middle of a war. They are people that are dying. Look around you." Gesturing around him. "Look at the people around you. You have a chance to make your life better while these people are lucky enough to just survive what is coming."
"I see them Paul. Why do you think we are here?"
"We are here because we have no way of going back. Tell me in all honesty, if you have met this people at random, would have given them a second glance?"
At Alex's silence, Paul nodded. "Exactly. You wanna know what I see? All I see is a woman endlessly complaining. I'm not belittling what you went through, Lex, but there are people who have it worse than you. I know you—you are better than this. You have a big heart and I know that first hand because you have extended that heart to me more times than I can count, now try and extend that to these people that need our help and stop whining." Aggravated and relief that he was also able to give his best friend a piece of his mind.
A throat cleared behind them and both had to strain their necks to spy the said elf standing behind them, offering lembas. Unfazed at the possibility of being heard, Paul smiled at the elf and reached out to grab a piece of the elvish whey bread.
"Alex.." Legolas offered while Alex remain stoic staring intently at the lembas. Her mind was elsewhere. Paul made a valid point and she felt expertly chastised. Shame and guilt battling inside her. Like she was doused with ice cold water, Alex realized how childish and selfish she had become. There are bigger things to focus on, bigger things to do than sit and mope and complain.
Paul nudged Alex—an action that did not escape the elf, understanding danced in his eyes at the gesture—snapping her out of her concentration. "I'm okay." Waving off the offered food and trying her best to silence the grumble of her stomach.
"No you're not."Paul commented.
"It's the last of the lembas. You can have mine." Legolas offered, reaching out again and offering the bread. "We'll have decent food once we reach the keep."
Sensing the sadness in Alex and trying to divert the solemn energy that had suddenly fallen over them, "See? You go have his lembas." Unable to hold in his laughter at Alex's horrified expression satisfied that he was able to amuse her still, Paul opted to stuff his face with the piece of bread on his hand. Plucking out the lembas from his grip and muttering a thanks.
"Now, slow down. We don't want you to faint when the next cote comes your way." Paul commented causing Alex to spit out the food. Legolas turned to leave the two best friends, smirking at the absurd hilarity of Paul's antics. Finding their sense of humor refreshing and hilarious.
Slowly approaching Aragorn who was silently smoking his pipe, the ranger bristled at the amused expression on the elf's face.
"What?' Legolas asked, his face showing concern as the ranger continued to stare at him.
Aragorn could not sleep and deciding to smoke his pipe as he thought of Arwen. He spotted Alex walking towards him, "Couldn't sleep?"
"Nope."
"Something's bothering you." It was not a question but an observation as Aragorn continued to stare over the camp.
Taking a deep inhale and steeling herself, Alex took the plunge. "Aragorn, what's gonna happen to all these people?" Turning his attention to the woman sitting beside him, he studied her profile. Her eyes looked sad and conflicted as she continued to gaze at the almost silent camp, just like he did.
"Why do you ask?"
Another minute passed before Alex spoke again, "It's just..all these people, robbed of their homes, some without families, or parents or brothers or husbands..I mean, how can one small ring be the cause of all of this?" Waving her hand in the general direction of where the people of Rohan were camped together.
"If I may be honest," Aragorn started turning to Alex, "I was not expecting your question." A ghost of a smile adorning his lips. Astonished at Alex's question, it was the last thing he was expecting to hear from her. Alex only furrowed her brow at Aragorn's comment.
"What were you expecting?"
"That you were going to talk about a certain elf." Alex laughed softly along with Aragorn, rolling her eyes as she glanced at the ranger, "When I have that sorted out, I'll let you know." Taking huge gulp of air, Alex continued, "I used to think I had it worst. Nobody could have anymore a painful situation that what I have. I see now, that I have been selfish. I have a chance to change my life, to choose better." releasing a sigh and turning her attention back to Aragorn, "I know now that despite what I went through, I am still blessed beyond belief. But these people, the children who will grow up surrounded by death and war—that is worst. And yet, I admire them. Their resiliency is amazing."
"I grew up alone, Aragorn. I know what being truly alone feels like. Not only do I feel sympathy for these people, but I feel worthless as well knowing I can't do anything about their situation."
"There is always hope. Choose to hope. When there is life, there is hope." Aragorn muttered silently, "and there is us." He smiled teasingly bumping his shoulder with Alex.
"We are only five people. Six if you include Gandalf."
"Ah. But you forget, that even the smallest person can change the course of the future." Aragorn smiled, "Now, about a certain elf…"
"You're even worse than Paul!" Aragorn's laugh covered her own as they both spotted Eowyn making her way around the camp.
"I made some stew. It isn't much but..it's hot." Eowyn smiled while reaching down to scoop some stew onto a wooden bowl handing it to Aragorn. "Alex?"
"I'm good. Just had lembas." Alex waved, while observing Eowyn interact with Aragorn.
"Thank you." Scooping some meat onto his wooden spoon, Aragorn paused as soon as the taste reached his tongue. Not wanting to offend the lady of Rohan, Aragorn swallowed the offending meat, his eyes on the look out that the lady might not be fooled by his attempt at politeness. "It's good." Alex's smile was plastered frozen on her face as she realized that the soup might be too hot and that Aragorn has the audacity to swallow a spoonful.
"Really?" Feeling relieved that the ranger appreciated her effort at making a warm stew, she proceeded to leave only to turn back around to face Aragorn. Alex was shoved out of the way as Aragorn tried to make quick work of pouring the soup to the ground only to have it burn his hand as he tried to mask his distaste. "My uncle told me the strangest thing. He said you rode to war with my grandfather—Thengel. But he must be mistaken."
"King Theoden has a good memory. He was only a small child at the time." Enduring the burning sensation in both his hands as he intended to throw the soup away but was thwarted the last minute.
"Then you must be at least sixty." Awe lacing her tone at knowing that the man she was talking too was possibly older than her uncle.
Aragorn shook his head, while trying to hide his amusement. "Seventy?" When the ranger remained silent Eowyn pressed on, "You cannot be eighty?!"
"Eighty seven." Finally ending the lady's curiosity. Alex's eyes widened at the information, her own astonished face was directed at Aragorn who chose to ignore her.
Surprised at the information, Eowyn stood her eyes roaming his face as she returned her stare, "You are one of the Dunedin. A descendant of Numenor blessed with long life. It was said that your race had passed into legend."
"There are a few of us left. The Noldor kingdom was destroyed long ago."
"I'm sorry. Please eat." Turning back to the pot she was carrying to procure another serving for Alex—whom despite her efforts was forced to eat, realizing what had Aragorn wanting to dispose of the soup as soon as possible.
Early the next day, on the journey to Helm's Deep Alex was woken up early by Paul. The sun was barely up, the purple hue of the early morning still lingering, Alex felt heavy, remembering all the nausea and stomach ache she endured last night from Eowyn's soup. Turning around in her cot, she tried to cover her face as she grumbled. "It's too early for me to function, Paul."
"And I'm too gay to function. Up." Pulling the cloak from around her and proceeded to roll his own cot. Brushing the fallen bangs out from her eyes and feeling up her head to find the braids still in place while rubbing the sleep from her eyes she turned to Paul, "How do I look?"
"Like a dead viking brought back to life." Choosing to ignore Paul, she went to stand and start to prepare as they make their way to the keep. Another day of travel, another day closer to getting home.
It was midday and they are making progress. The entire camp was littered with quiet conversations as they stopped to make a few hours rest. As they continued with their slow trek, Alex found herself walking ahead of Aragorn and Eowyn, silently prying in into their conversation. The young lady of Rohan was extremely curious of the ranger, which Alex thought cute.
"Where is she? The woman who gave you that jewel." Eowyn soft voice broke through the silence as Aragorn walked silently beside her. His face became thoughtful as he contemplated his answer. "My lord?"
"She is sailing to the Undying Lands, with all that is left of her kin." Aragorn's gruff voice answered back, but his eyes stayed glued to Alex's, who found her own eyes glued to the rangers as she stared right back. Sadness swimming in his brown orbs as he studied Alex. The dubious Princess of Greenwood might be a spitting image of her grandmother, but Aemilia had always shared the beauty with Arwen. Both with same pale skin, flowing dark wavy mane. Aragorn could not help but realize in that moment that Alex reminded him so much of his own elven love.
Eowyn stared ahead, her disappointment evidently clear at finding out that the ranger had already pledged his heart to another , and an elf no less. The look Aragorn gave Alex was not lost on the sheildmaiden either, ever being the curious, this tiny little detail peaked her interest even more and more question lingered in her mind than answers.
All three turned their attention back to the present, as they noticed brisk but subdued commotions occurring. Alex had picked up on it as well, her eyes turning towards Aragorn as the two had a silent conversation about what could possibly had the Rohan soldiers on alert, with the ranger breaking eye contact as he proceeded to find Legolas who had decided to scout ahead of the group.
Legolas stood silently over the hill, his icy stare sweeping over the terrain. Every now and then his gaze would sweep past Alex who was walking along side Aragorn and the lady of Rohan. He caught the uncomfortable stare between Alex and his friend, his brow furrowing at what that meant. Suddenly his senses came on high alert. His ears straining to hear something ominous in the distance. He stood watched as Gamling and Hamá ride to the front."What is it? Háma?" Gamling asked, their horses becoming restless— an odd occurrence that did not slip the elf's notice.
"I'm not sure." Hama answered, his eyes darting around. As soon as the words left the Rohan soldier's mouth a warg scout appeared on a slope above and charged at them. The warg attacking Háma and killing him on the spot.
"Wargs!" Gamling screamed, warning the nearby Rohirrim soldiers. Legolas sprung into action. Having already pulled his bow and arrow as he ran down the hill, he made his way to the source of the commotion. Dread filling him that they had unknowingly walked into an ambush. Memories of the horrors of two separate occasions, both alike and hauntingly familiar—what happened to his mother when she was attacked by a party of goblins on their journey back home from surviving the battle in Angmar, and the funeral they attended—a few years later—when Lady Celebrian—wife to Lord Elrond—and her daughter, Lady Aemilia was attacked on their way to Lothlorien to visit Lady Celebrian's parents, namely Lord Celeborn and the Lady of the Light.
He had been a witness to the dread and mourning and anguish that engulfed the entire elven realm of Greenwood and Imladris despite being years apart. Remembering even his own Father's sorrow when the news of his mother's murder was reported was still fresh in his mind. He could still see vividly the faces of Lord Elrond and his family and knew it mirrored his own. Another thought crossed his mind at that moment, and for the first time in his life he felt raw fear, not for himself but for Alex. He knew what his mother's death had done to his father. The presence of wargs were not an accident, this was planned—premeditated. Running down hill, he came to the conclusion, he had to get her out of here.
Just as the warg started to turn on Gamling, Legolas ran over and killed the warg with an arrow. He then draws his knife and kills the Orc by slitting its throat, in perfect timing as Aragorn came barreling toward them.
"Argh!" His anger getting the better of him but he had no time be embarrassed. The usual calm and cool elf loosing against his anger as he killed the orc with disgust, pure unadulterated fury in his face, "A scout!" He yells as he turns to face Aragorn who immediately turned back around to warn the rest of the soldiers and the people of Rohan.
"What is it? What do you see?" Theoden asked, frantically moving up to the head of the crowd
"Wargs! We are under attack!" Aragorn answered running back to Theoden and proceeding to grab the reins of Hasufel, turning to Alex to find she had already mounted Midnight.
Hearing the alarm, the villagers begin to cry and panic. "Get them out of here!" Aragorn ordered to Theoden but his eyes was steady on Alex and Paul who both nodded in understanding.
"All riders to the head of the column!" Theoden ordered, his eyes turning to Éowyn who was standing beside Midnight, "You must lead the people to Helm's Deep. And make haste!"
"I can fight—!"
"No! You must do this... for me." Éowyn held her Uncle's gaze for a moment and then turn to attend to the villagers. "Make for the lower ground! Stick together!"
Alex moved Midnight forward ahead of the people of Rohan, her horse galloping as she scoured the terrain ahead of them. Bringing Midnight back to where Eowyn and Paul were leading the people, "The coast is clear. Hurry!"
Eowyn watched in awe as Alex quickly maneuvered Midnight into submission and proceeded to lead the people of Rohan. Alex face was stern, but the edges of her eyes showed fear and uncertainty as she faced Eowyn, "Just tell me where we are going. I'll scour the route and ensure we are not walking into a trap. The orc scouts might be creating a diversion."
"What about you?" Paul exclaimed, his eyes in disbelief at what Alex was volunteering to do.
"I'll be fine. The priority is getting these people to safety." Digging her heels as she directed her horse to move forward all the way encouraging the people of Rohan to move along and and to quicken their pace. There is us, Aragorn's voice ringing in her ears as she tried to offer her help to the helpless.
Eowyn's head whipped between Alex and Paul as she watched the exchange, the latter not even phased as Alex ordered him to lead the people. Trying not to notice the lady's stare and smiled despite the fear that seemed to shroud over them like a dark cloud, "How does she do that?"
"Do what?" Paul asked, trying to act innocent. Of course, women empowerment did not exist in that day and age, and Paul had to remind himself that he had to talk to Alex before the women of Middle Earth decide to follow in her foot steps. Men in this age are not yet prepare to acknowledge that women can accomplish the same things men can.
"Order you around. Lady Alex is astounding." Eowyn commented under her breath. "It's called gender equality." Paul muttered dryly, eyeing Eowyn with concealed mirth.
Eowyn's eyes still glued to Alex's form as she inclined her head towards Paul, "I beg your pardon, milord?"
"It goes both ways." Paul answered sheepishly ending the conversation.
It was a few hours since the people of Rohan got separated from the soldiers and their King. Their trek proved to be even more challenging as they navigated their way through rough terrain, with children, elderly, their livestock and carts dragging them behind. Alex had tried to help a few, opting to tie Midnight to one of the carts and proceeding to have the smallest of the children onto the carts to be pulled by her horse.
Another half hour has passed when they spotted the keep in the distance, nestled on the side of the mountain. Cries of relief are heard as their refuge is within sight. "Helm's Deep! At last! There it is!"
"We're safe, my lady! Thank you!" Éowyn embraces the woman and they walk on towards Helm's Deep. Alex leading them towards the gate that was opened for the villagers.
Alex was unprepared for the sight that greeted them, many have already taken refuge within and are resting along the passage. Wounded men and women, displaced children and helpless elderly are crouched down by the keep's walls.
Alex turned her head to spot Éothain and Freda jump down from the cart and run towards their mother. "Mama!" Young girl with dirty blonde hair screamed, "Éothain! Freda!" Alex continued to watch as the three hug and cry with joy.
All around them were suffering and starvation. Alex observed with keen eyes as the people of Rohan struggled over this evil that is trying to swallow them whole. Moving along with Eowyn, she offered her help, given the task of offering blanket and bedding. Segregating the limited food to be kept and organizing the keep into some semblance of order. The entire time, Alex's mind drifted to her friends. Refusing to entertain the worse that could happen to them. Her heart constricting at the thought that Legolas might not cross those gates, brought her to a screeching halt and drop the basket of loaves.
Another two hours before the news of Theoden and the soldiers being spotted across the field filtered through the crowd. Théoden and company returned from the battle. Their numbers noticeably fewer. "Make way for Théoden!" Gamling announced, "Make way for the king!" Éowyn rushed down to meet them while her eyes glassy with tears making an account of the soldiers that returned with her uncle. "So few. So few of you have returned."
Dismounting his horse and feeling grim settle over his bones at the deaths of the soldiers and their bodies he was forced to leave behind, "Our people are safe. We have paid for it with many lives."
"My lady…" Eowyn's attention was caught by a gruff voice to her left, seeing Master Gimli approach her, his face solemn. "Lord Aragorn, where is he?" Apprehension in her face as her mind immediately going to Alex who was somewhere in the keep being kept hostage by loads of chores.
"He fell…" Éowyn was shaken by the news, disbelief on her eyes as she raises her teary eyes to Théoden. The King of Rohan could not do anything but look down and walk away, confirming her unasked question.
It was at the moment that Alex burst from the gathered crowd with Paul hot on her heels as the news that the King has arrived have reached the kitchens. Without so much as a thought, she hug Gimli, checking him for injuries and flung herself to Legolas who caught her. "Thank God, you're back." She muttered as she held onto him. When she lifted her head, she found Eowyn staring at her intently. "Wha.. what happened?" looking between Eowyn, Gimli and Legolas, all whose faces were grim. Suddenly a thought struck her as she turned her head left and right looking for the one person who seemed to be missing, "Where's Aragorn?"
"Shit." Paul hissed, bending on his knees as he understood what their faces where trying to say. His own eyes tearing up.
"Come on, love. Let us talk some place quiet." Legolas tried to offer, his long fingers intertwining with hers. Refusing to be distracted by the elf, Alex found her voice again, "Where is Aragorn?!"
Eowyn's tearful gaze continued to stare at her, her own eyes already starting to brim with unshed tears. "He fell, meleth. He fell." Legolas' soft voice whispered in her ear as he pulled her into embrace, his hand holding her head and his mouth resting her temple. She felt the words vibrate through her, pain clear in his voice.
Alex was not even aware Legolas had already pulled her into a much secluded part of the keep, away from the prying eyes of the people of Rohan and soldiers alike. Even Paul and Gimli had chosen to stay quiet as the four remaining members of the fellowship mourned their friend's passing, with only Alex's soft cries muffled by Legolas's shirt the only sound.
Paul offered to grab Alex some water and stale bread, instructing Legolas to remind Alex to take a rest as she had not had a full night's rest the night before and with all the excitement of the day she was already beyond exhausted. Paul and Gimli then went to attend to whatever chore they could find and help the King and Eowyn put the keep in some form of order.
Alex was already quiet but remained glued to his chest as she continued to cling onto him, "You need to rest, meleth." The only telltale sign that she heard him was her head shaking. Pulling her with him as he sat on the cold ground, Alex sat beside him, her head on his should while his hand played with her hair, they stayed that way in complete silence. Once in a while he would turn to plant a kiss on her forehead when she would sniff and she in turn would snuggle closer to his side. In their most darkest hour, the two souls found solace in each other. His other played with the Evenstar necklace—a symbol of love between Aragorn and Arwen—and in that moment a thought crossed his mind, glancing down at Alex's head he realized that he had not even gifted his wife with anything symbolising their union. As he tried to rectify the thought immediately, plans forming in his head, plans he had every intention of seeing through for Alex, as soon as he returns home. For a while Legolas' thoughts were preoccupied with images of Alex wearing something of his, something that would remind her that he had always been hers and the images brought him peace, a welcomed respite from the darkness surrounding them. It was an hour later that their solemn bubble was interrupted by Paul who came bounding towards them, excitement on his face, "He's alive!"
In an instant, Legolas was on his feet along with Alex and the three of them ran out towards the entrance of the great hall where the King and his advisers are deep in counsel. They spotted Gimli excitedly talking Aragorn's ear off, "You are the luckiest, the canniest and the most reckless man I ever knew! Bless you, laddie!" Gimli moved to hug Aragorn as relief flooded the dear dwarf.
"Gimli, where is the king?" Gimli gestured to the hall. As Aragorn made his way in, the air however was knocked out of him as Alex slender frame rammed onto him in a tight hug. Her arms going around him as she proceeded to scold him. "Don't you ever scare me like that ever again!"
"Le ab-dollen." (You're late.) They both smiled as the elf continued to talk despite Alex who remained clinging onto Aragorn. Legolas paused and hie eyes inspecting Aragorn's wounds. "You look terrible." taking Aragorn's hand and places the Evenstar pendant. Aragorn looked startled. He was not even aware that Arwen's necklace had fallen off. He continued to stare at the Evenstar, gazing back to the elf and offering his thanks, clapping Legolas on the shoulder.
"Hannon le." (Thank you.) Aragorn whispered suddenly his face turned serious, "Where is the King?"
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AN: 1,573 views since i posted the last chapter, right before i am uploading this one. thank you! and just to show my appreciation, i believe there was an easter egg(s) up there somewhere...*winks*