Disclaimer: We don't own a single thing that belongs to Tolkien, so please
don't sue us; it's pointless as you would only be depriving us of the
essential basics of living. The only things we own are Welestra and
Sirithwingwen.
Chapter Two - Trailing to Rivendell
Siri nodded and pulled on Welestra's arm as a indication for her to scoot back and she did so, both of them scurrying back into the shadows for a moment. In front of them, leaving the inn were Strider and the hobbits. They could barely be seen in the darkness, like mere phantasms, but the girls knew it was them so they waited until they had given the group a head start, and then they followed.
They tried to remain quiet as they followed Strider and his companions, always staying in the shadows as best they could. There were a few times when they thought they had lost the group and Welestra was amazed at how after
just a moment's worth of concentration Siri seemed to know exactly where they were going with almost no effort.
"We cannot fall too far behind them," Welestra protested as Siri stopped for a moment.
Siri waved a hand for Welestra to be quiet and though she scowled, Welestra did so.
Then the reason for why Siri had bid her quiet became obvious. A few feet ahead of them they heard a voice, soft yet authoritative....it was obviously Strider.
"Very well...perhaps I was mistaken; I thought we were being followed."
"Followed?" The question sounded as if it were posed by Frodo.
"Yes followed....I hear nothing now. Come let us continue."
Siri remained frozen, as did Welestra, and neither girl moved nor spoke for the space of about ten minutes.
After Siri felt it was safe she let out a breath and looked at Welestra. "You can talk us out of any situation, and you are far better at doing that sort of thing than I...but when it comes to where we are going, and how far people
are ahead of us, I think I have the corner on that market."
Welestra also exhaled deeply and nodded. "I thought we had fallen behind...I had no idea they were that close. How did you know?"
Siri shrugged and took a step forward, deeming it safe for them to follow the group. "I don't know, I just felt it...I have no idea how."
"Well if you know all of that then...how close are we to Weathertop?"
Siri paused again, as if gauging the distance in her mind. "About a half hour, maybe twenty if we travel quickly."
"That's amazing," Welestra muttered of Siri's navigation abilities.
Siri shook her head, her silver hair falling across her amethyst eyes. "YOU are the amazing one Lestra; you have talked us into everything and made all the wise decisions. I haven't done a thing except get us where we need to be once or twice."
Welestra chuckled as the two girls carefully continued on towards Weathertop. "I think you are giving me way too much credit here Siri, you are amazing with a sword."
"Too much credit? Never Lestra, and I'm really not all that good."
Siri paused again and Welestra stopped as well, weary of her friend since she always seemed to know when to halt.
"What is it?" Welestra whispered. "Have they stopped again?"
"No," Siri said, an odd look on her face. "I just realized something is all...if things are going the way they are supposed to be going..."
"The hobbits will get attacked by the Nazgul, we will follow them, and then Arwen will speed Frodo off to Rivendell." Welestra finished.
"Exactly...Rivendell," Siri repeated, her amethyst eyes becoming clouded over.
It took a moment for Welestra to realize what her best friend was thinking, where her thoughts had fallen, then it struck her like a bolt. She frowned a bit, realizing what was wrong. "Boromir," she simply stated. She
knew Siri had always loved the character of Boromir, before the movie and even more so after it; she was an expert on all things Boromir in a way that would have surprised Tolkien himself. Welestra understood this better than
anyone else so she placed a gentle hand on Siri's arm.
"All the more reason for us to get there...we will have to do something Siri. If you couldn't stand watching him die in the movie you wont be able to...."
She trailed off as she felt Siri cringe. She watched as her friend tried to shake it off for the sake of getting them where they needed to go.
"Forget it....come on. I can't believe I was even thinking about that, how ridiculous of me."
Welestra nodded and followed after Siri, pushing strands of her deep blue- black hair from her pale face. She knew with that thought imbedded in the back of her mind, Siri wouldn't quite be the same.
True to Siri's words roughly a half hour later Weathertop was in sight. The two girls paused, Welestra's hand still resting on Siri's arm and they stared up in awe.
"It's amazing," Welestra said, her deep, midnight blue eyes wide with wonder.
Siri nodded, her full lips parted in a gasp of amazement. "What should we do now?" Siri asked, turning to her friend.
"I think we should..."
Welestra trailed off as Siri pulled her by the arm into the bushes, deep into the shadows.
"What?" Welestra whispered.
"We are too late, Strider moved faster than I anticipated; the Nazgul are right behind us. We cannot risk going out in the open, they will attack us and kill us before we could ever get to Strider for help.... SSSH." Siri
muttered, clamping a hand over her friend's mouth.
They both heard it then, Frodo yelling at the other Hobbits to put the fire out, and the mountain went black. Once again came the bone-chilling screech and Siri could feel the goose bumps upon her slender arms. They had tried
desperately to get here before the Nazgul but to no avail. Then came hoofbeats as the Nazgul and their steeds rode past, the horse's breath rising in billows of frost. The two girls said nothing, both clutching the other's
hand in silent comfort as the Nine made their way past, towards Weathertop. The two girls watched, stunned and helpless; there was seemingly nothing they could do.
"But Frodo-" Siri yelped as she saw the Nine scaling Weathertop.
"Things will once again have to take their course, we will not be able to stop things from happening or help them until we are prepared," Welestra stated matter-of-factly.
Siri sighed but nodded in agreement. "We are going to have to get up there though. We have to help them after
Frodo gets stabbed at least."
Welestra nodded and both paused, then they ventured out from their hiding place and scurried across the dark landscape, making their way towards the imposing Weathertop. Both girls drew their swords, just in case they were confronted, but soon they were atop the ruins and saw there was no need; Strider had fought the last Nazgul off with a torch and all of the commotion was around Frodo. Both girls were about to hurry over when they were both yanked backwards roughly and felt a blade across their necks.
"Tell me exactly who you are, and why you have been following us...I have no time to play games."
The voice was unmistakable. It was Strider, and he was in no mood for excuses from either of the girls whom he obviously considered strange intruders.
"We are not enemies, if that is what you believe," Welestra stated, surprisingly calm with a sword at her throat. "We are on our way to Rivendell in hopes of speaking with Elrond Half-Elven. We are in need of his counsel."
"And was it you who were trailing us?" Strider questioned.
"Yes," Siri admitted. "We are not entirely clear of the road, and would sooner trust a Ranger's judgement than our own."
Strider hesitantly lowered his sword. "Instinct tells me that you may be telling the truth, but my heart tells me otherwise. What reason would an Elf and a mortal woman, who arrive into Bree clad in unusual garments and leave in different attire with weapons they did not own, have to see Lord Elrond and get there by following a Ranger?"
"Partly was to avoid answering questions we don't have the answers to," Welestra answered. "Our arrival here puzzles us as well, and unfortunately we do not have time to describe the tale as we know it. It is obvious your hobbit friend is hurt, and we will offer up our swords to aid you to Rivendell. You will be more vulnerable to the wraiths now that you have an injured comrade."
Strider paused; the woman was right. With Frodo hurt he would not be able to defend neither himself or the hobbits should the Nazgul find them again, which he was sure they would. "Tell me your names before I decide whether to accept your offer."
"I am Welestra,"
"And I am Siri," she answered, preferring to keep her name short for the time being. Strider stood up and helped the both of them to their feet.
"Very well Welestra and Siri, I accept your aid." He turned back to Frodo, who was encircled by the hobbits, and checked the injury. "A morgul blade.....he has been stabbed by it." The discarded blade crumbled to fine dust when Strider picked it up. He turned to Siri. "This is beyond my skill. Can your skill match those of Lord Elrond?"
She shook her head. "I am no healer. Your skills far surpass mine Strider I am sure of it."
He looked puzzled. "Are you not of Elvish kindred?"
"No I am not," she answered.
"Then how is it that you possess Elvish traits?"
"These are questions that can be answered later," Welestra interjected. She bent over Frodo and examined his wound for herself, then gazed into Frodo's eyes. So much pain did she read there. She turned to those around him. "We must make haste. Frodo's spirit is strong, but he will not last if we banter around her much longer."
Strider nodded his agreement and picked Frodo up, hoisting the hobbit over his shoulder. Sam looked helplessly up at Strider walking away with his master, then at Welestra. "Is he going to die?"
She smiled in reassurance and knelt down to his level. "He'll be fine Samwise. Once he gets to Rivendell all will be well."
Sam looked like he wanted to believe her, but was unsure. She ushered him along, and the both of them had to run to catch up to the rest of them.
Strider led them through the thickets, moving quickly with Frodo over his shoulder. He muttered reassurances to the hobbit, reassurances meant for his ears only but heard by Siri and Welestra as well. A wind blew, and Welestra closed her eyes partially as she listened to it speak to her again. Her concentration to its words almost made her run into the group, where Strider had set Frodo down after a time. His eyes were glazing over, and he was breathing shallowly. Welestra tried to stay with what was going on, but the wind was persistent and would not let her rest. She looked around bewildered, and Siri noticed.
"Lestra what is it?"
"Too many things at once," she said, still gazing about. "Too many things coming at us at once."
"What is it?" Strider asked Siri, noticing the situation.
"Welestra possesses a gift of seeing with the wind, though neither of us know how she came by it," Siri replied, turning her amethyst eyes to meet his dark brown. "It began when we arrived."
"Perhaps we can use it to our advantage," Strider commented. "You stay here with the other hobbits, and Welestra can watch for danger." He turned to Sam. "Sam do you know altheas?"
"Altheas?" he repeated.
"Kingsfoil," Strider tried.
"Kingsfoil's a weed," Sam concluded.
"It may help. Hurry!"
Strider went off with Sam in search of the plant. Siri was kneeling down by Frodo with Merry and Pippin while Welestra stood sentinel, the wind still talking. She closed her eyes in concentration as Merry and Pippin looked on.
"What's she doing?" Merry whispered to Siri.
"Seeing with the wind," Siri answered in the same tone.
"How do you do that?" Pippin asked, slightly louder than Merry.
She shrugged. "I don't know. You'll have to ask Welestra."
Suddenly her eyes shot open, and she cast her glance over her shoulder, terror on her face. "They're coming!"
"Who's coming?!" Merry and Pippin asked in unison. Their question fell on deaf ears.
Siri, knowing who she meant, drew her sword. "How far are they?"
Welestra's eyes closed again and her face crinkled in confusion. "I......I don't know. It's......it's telling me....." She trailed off, and her confusion grew. "It's telling me to heal Frodo......but I can't....." Again Welestra trailed off.
Siri looked around, searching for something. She turned to the hobbits. "Merry, Pippin, go and find some dead branches, small enough for you to defend yourself with. The wraiths are coming."
The two hobbits were bewildered, but they found courage in her calmness and did what she had said, finding two branches not far from Frodo. Pround and scared all in the same instant they ran back to Siri. "Now what?" Pippin asked.
Siri searched her bag, and found her matches. Skillfully she ripped one off and lit it. "Okay, now hold them still," Carefully she lowered the flame to Pippin's branch which sprang to life with fire. Merry held his just over Pippin's while Siri flicked her wrist, extinguishing the little flame.
Meanwhile a voice had entered Welestra's head, a light and airy female voice she knew but never heard before.
You must help him.
I can't.
Yes you can.
I don't know how.
Yes you do. You must remember, sister.
Sister?! Why did-
Hush! She's coming.
Before Welestra could answer and right after Siri extinguished the match, hoofbeats filled the air. Pippin and Merry took a defensive stance near Frodo, but Siri waved them down.
"It's okay. Someone else rides up."
"Who?" Merry asked.
He was answered by the image of the rider. She rode atop a dappled white horse, and the hobbits looked on in awe. Frodo struggled to look up, and saw the person in an enticing light. She spoke to him in elvish after she dismounted, and knelt beside him.
"Why she's an elf!" Merry exclaimed in amazement.
"He's fading fast," she replied in dismay. "We must get him to my father's halls."
Silently Strider picked Frodo up and walked with the Elf to her horse. They conversed more in elvish, then the Elf rode off with Frodo. Sam, who had returned with Strider, became angry.
"What do you think you're doing?! He won't be safe with the wraiths out there!"
"And neither will we," Welestra answered. "They're coming this way."
"Do you know from where?" Strider asked.
Dread was in her features. "Five behind us. The other four went after Arwen and Frodo."
The wind died, having served its purpose, but the hoofbeats were clear. Strider unsheathed his sword, Pippin and Merry resumed their defensive stances, Siri stood behind and Welestra turned to face the oncoming threat by Strider, blade risen. Like foreboding shadows of evil they came closer, more and more visible each time.
"We may be matched five for five, but with them on horses we stand no chance," Siri called out.
"Then we must even the odds," Strider called back. "Do what you must to get them off the saddle!"
Before any of them could blink the Nazgul were upon them. Strider slashed at the foremost rider, cutting the saddle strap and forcing the rider to plummet to the earth. Welestra flipped the sword in her right hand, which was protected by thick leather sleeves, and pulled out her dagger. Almost immediately after Strider knocked the first Nazgul down she hit the next one with the hilt of her sword, spun on her heel and slashed as the horse ran by, cutting the stirrup and throwing the Nazgul off. Merry and Pippin swatted at another Nazgul with their flaming branches, taking turns until the wraith tumbled off in confusion. Siri, seeing the two remaining, sheathed her sword and grabbed her daggers, cutting two legs as she ducked and they rode by. The two hobbits had driven off the third wraith by setting it aflame, and Merry ran to Strider and Welestra while Pippin ran to Siri. He tossed his branch to her and she caught it, turning and slamming it into the approaching Nazgul, driving it off. Strider mimicked Siri and his earlier fight and ended up driving the two Nazgul off at the sight of fire. Everyone stopped, relieved, but could not make out what the Nazgul were trying to do. Hoofs and screams could be heard all around.
"Now what?" Siri asked.
"We should move," Strider asked. "Follow a stream to the Bruinen. The ringwraiths won't follow."
Quickly they moved, eager all the more to get to Rivendell where they would be safe. The hoofs and screams got farther away as they moved, but something was following. Welestra turned, the pull of her curiousity too strong to resist, to see what it was.......
And was greeted with the dagger of the Witch-King thrown into her stomach.
A sound escaped her throat as pain coarsed through. The others turned in time to see the Witch-King stride back to the horse and mount, riding off. Welestra ripped the dagger from her abdomen and threw it aside, dropping to her knees and cringing. Strider and Siri ran to her.
"You too," Siri breathed, examining the wound as Strider supported her.
"Come, get up," Strider encouraged, gently hauling her to her feet. "I will carry you."
"No," Welestra protested hoarsely. "I can walk. You lead Strider, I'll keep up."
Knowing he had to make a decision, Strider agreed. Off they went again, drawing closer and closer to their destination. For the most part Welestra kept up with Siri's support, but the wound was taking its toll. She could feel its evil slowly trying to take her over, and it began to cause her to doubt herself regarding her ability to fight.
A breeze picked up, wafting around the company. The light, airy voice returned and all of them could now feel its presence though only Welestra could hear it.
Sister, you must be strong.
Why do you call me sister? Who are you?
I call you sister because you are my sister. I cannot say now who I am, nor do I desire to for such a thing deserves to be in person. I have missed you dearly, and so have our brothers.
I don't understand.
I know, and you will not for a long time. But you once told me that should this happen, this is how you wanted it to be handled; it was the only way that you would become yourself again.
Become myself?
Yes, there is much you have forgotten, but there are some who can help you find the answers. Seeking them out will help you find yourself.
I don't think I'm going to last long enough to see it.
You will, sister. Be strong.
I can't! The poison is too strong.
You can. You are above it; you have the strength to withstand it and the power to heal yourself of it.
Sister I-
Do not say the word can't. You have never believed in that word. Lhestwa olremo mes casta.
What?
Lhestwa olremo mes casta. Evil is only as strong as you let it.
Lhestwa olremo mes casta.......
Be strong, sister. Well will be reunited once again.
Welestra began to stumble, but she would not stop walking. She began to repeat what her sister told her, the words that were so familiar to her tongue but alien to her ears and the company.
"Welestra, what are you saying?" Siri asked, partially pulling her friend along.
"Lhestwa olremo mes casta," Welestra whispered. "Lhestwa olremo mes casta."
"Welestra!" Siri exclaimed. It was the last thing Welestra heard before she fell into unconsciousness.
Siri both felt and heard Welestra fall into unconsciousness. She grew pale, even paler than normal if such was actually possible and she shook her friend, calling her name over and over. At first in a frantic whisper, a
whisper that quickly became a desperate scream.
"Lestra, Lestra, LESTRA!"
She gritted her teeth and hauled Welestra up from where she had crumpled to the ground like a discarded doll.
Strider turned and so did the three reaming Hobbits.
"What has happened?" Strider inquired as he ran to Welestra and Siri.
"She is unconscious. She passed out...she is much worse than thought. We have to move, and move now." Siri intoned, suddenly barking out orders as if she were in a war.
Strider blinked at Siri's words. "I will have to carry her."
Siri shook her head, silver tresses falling in front of her eyes. "You will not, I will take care of her...JUST LEAD."
Strider blinked again and shook his head as he took a step forward. "You can do no such thing, you are far too frail and..."
"I AM NO SUCH THING RANGER! NOW lead." She stopped screaming and trailed off, realizing she had been harsh, but this was her best friend and her life was on the line...Siri would have gladly taken Welestra's place.
Merry, Strider, Pippin and Sam watched in amazement as Siri, seemingly so frail and willow-slender hefted Welestra over one shoulder, carefully supporting her friends head and stepped forward without falter. She nodded and took a deep breath then fell in line beside Merry and Pippin. She was not going to let anything happen to Welestra, she would never forgive herself...she knew Welestra would do the same for her, their bond of friendship was strong and nothing would break it, certainly not a poison dagger.
"Is she...going to be ok?" Merry asked tentatively as he looked at Welestra's prone form.
"Of course she will if I have anything to do with it," Siri stated, taking quick steps forward.
"But how can you carry her? You don't look very strong," Pippin said, chiming in with his friend.
"Strength my brave hobbit lies not in the build but in the will and the heart, for the heart goes on and does what it must when the body admits defeat."
"Are you sure you aren't an Elf?" Merry said, studying Siri with unashamed, curious eyes. "You sure sound like one!"
"And she's pretty like one too!" Sam said, after which he blushed crimson as if wishing he had not spoken up.
"I am quite sure, at least not that I am aware of," Siri said, her steps never slowing as she followed behind Strider. "I am nothing extraordinary, Lestra on the other hand is I believe...but more than anything she is my closest friend and therefore I will not LET her die."
Sam smiled, nodding as if he understood the bond of friendship between the two girls; after all he had Frodo and the worry for his friend was evident on his face. Siri noticed this and tried to give him an encouraging smile.
True to her completely selfless nature, never thinking of herself she tried to comfort Sam with her words.
"Worry not Sam, Frodo will be all right."
He looked doubtful. "But how do you know?"
She smiled again as she carefully balanced Welestra's weight. "There are some things I just know Sam, and I can promise you Frodo shall be just fine."
He seemed a bit more encouraged and nodded to Siri. "I'm a simple fellow Siri, but my heart tells me to trust you, it really does...so I will."
Siri smiled softly, her heart eaten with worry for Welestra as she appeared beside Strider.
"We follow the Bruinen to the Ford, but we must stay more in the woods, in cover. We cannot walk the water's edge like this."
Strider flashed her a skeptical look, his eyes studying her with a cool, analytical look. "Why? How do you know so much of where and how we travel yet seemingly nothing of yourself?"
Siri sighed and bit her lower lip. "Once again I cannot give you answers; Lestra had more answers than I did, and you will have to trust me. If we follow the Loudwater on it's banks we will encounter the Nazgul and
that is a confrontation we are ill equipped to handle."
Strider studied her again, as if trying to read her heart, her very soul, his eyes penetrating hers. He then placed a rough hand upon her shoulder and nodded. "I have little choice but to trust you, after all you have been
right so far...we will stay within the woods."
Siri nodded and the group as a whole cut farther into the forest, staying away from the river's edge. Siri's suspicions were confirmed when a chill ran up her spine.
"Halt." Her voice was a whisper yet firm, and all three hobbits, even Strider froze.
"What is it?" Pippin whispered, his eyes darting back and forth.
"The Nazgul are just ahead, angered and defeated...but alive nonetheless; do NOT move."
The group scattered, Sam and Merry hiding behind a tree, Siri and Pippin taking shelter in bushes, Strider following them. True to Siri's words there was a loud screeching wail, and though they could not be seen, all heard the Nazgul ride past in a flurry of screeches and thundering hoof beats.
A few breathless moments passed until Siri stepped out, still holding Welestra tightly. The others followed her example.
"You were right...again. Forgive me for doubting you," Strider said sincerely, his eyes meeting Siri's.
"We have no time for apologies, we must reach Rivendell before the defeated wraiths meet their kindred behind us and we are assaulted...come."
Siri stepped forward and whispered softly to Welestra. "Hold on Lestra, just hold on I am going to get you to Rivendell, I promise you I will...I promise you will make it." Her full lips then locked into a grim, determined frown and she quickened her pace, causing Strider himself to sprint forward to keep up.
Within the space of a few heartbeats they could see the Ford...and they knew just beyond it lay Rivendell. Siri stopped for a moment and took Welestra from her shoulder and placed her in both arms, hugging her friend tightly to her chest as if she could somehow further protect her. She made for the gates, followed by Strider, Merry, Pippin and Sam.
Strider began to explain exactly what had happened to an elf that greeted them but Siri had no time for explanations; Welestra had gone whiter than a sheet, and her lips were turning pale, her breathing ragged. Siri gasped in horror at her friend's condition and sprinted forward past Strider and a company of elves. She had to get Welestra to Elrond...quickly.
She seemed to somehow know Rivendell even though she had never been there before, and it was far past knowledge of reading books, or watching films. She knew exactly where Elrond's home was, and running at a frantic, frenzied speed she reached it quickly. She was going to demand entrance when the door opened and before her stood Lord Elrond, dressed in rich emerald and garnet robes, his long brown hair tumbling across his brow. He bowed his head and looked directly at Siri. She was too awed to speak, and as if sensing that he nodded and gestured gracefully with one hand for her to enter, then moved aside so she could do so.
"I...I'm Siri, this is Lestra, I...oh forget it, just help her! You HAVE to help her!"
Elrond quirked a brow but smiled. "Calm yourself child, I sensed your arrival. Come into my chambers and lay
her upon the bed. It was a Nazgul blade yes?"
Siri nodded, sweat beading on her pale forehead, her pale, slender hands shaking as she laid Welestra down upon the satin sheets that lay upon the beautifully carved bed.
"Can you help her?" Siri insisted, reluctant to move she hovered over Elrond's shoulder, her stunning amethyst eyes filled with concern and grief.
"I can help her, though she is gravely wounded; it will take much effort but I can do this. However I cannot do it if you follow me like a nervous shadow!"
Siri blinked, an abashed look on her pale face as she sighed, her hands falling to her sides. "I am sorry Lord Elrond, I am merely worried."
Elrond turned to Siri and gently pushed her towards the door with the gentle smile of a father. "I know you are...please, let me do what I must."
Having no choice Siri admitted defeat and slipped out the door, where she passed a nervous group of Hobbits and Strider checking on Frodo, who still lay unconscious in his bed.
Hearing her shut the door Strider looked up, as did Pippin.
"Will she be all right? Can Elrond help her?" Pippin asked, glancing at Siri with a look of concern.
"He is doing all he can...all I can do now...is wait" Siri said, frustration evident in her voice.
Strider walked to her side and placed his hand once again on her shoulder, as if trying to comfort her, but not truly knowing how. "Elrond's skills are unmatched. If anyone can save her it would be him."
"I know," Siri answered, her voice still tainted with worry. It was not that she didn't have faith in Elrond; she merely had no faith in faith itself.
She turned away from Strider roughly, her amethyst eyes brimming with tears of worry. She bit her lower lip and blinked them back; it was unlike Siri to cry, or to even be troubled but now was a rare exception.
She said nothing more to Strider even as he seemed about to follow her, instead she left Frodo's chambers and wandered out into Rivendell itself. There was little she could do, except hope that he could save Welestra
somehow and as she gazed about the splendor before her, she could feel her heart grow heavy with dread; Boromir. If things were happening even relatively close to sequence he would be arriving from Gondor soon. The beautiful White City Siri had always longed to see, the towers...but more than anything she was terrified that he would arrive, and she would not be able to even speak a word. Why would he be bothered with someone as insignificant as she?
Strider passed by her, and he knelt down and placed his hand below her chin and brought her eyes to his. "Your friend will make it, do not worry so. I do not know what troubles you but you have more strength inside than you know; there is something special about you. I do know that much, and your heart is heavy with burden and
fear, and so is mine."
He left her then, sitting on the steps of Elrond's home to drown in her own thoughts as day turned to dusk.
Welestra opened her eyes when the first rays of sunlight hit them, and gazed about. She was in an immesely large bed layered with feather-light iridescent satin sheets. There were walls containing the room in itself, but they were very open with many ornate carvings and wooden furniture, and soft curtains in pale colours wafted when the slight morning breeze touched them. She smiled; somehow she had made it to Rivendell. She could feel no pain nor poison and knew she had been healed, most likey by the good Lord Elrond. An Elf walked in then, dressed in black and slate blue robes, his dark hair spilled over his shoulders like a long waterfall and pushed back to keep from falling into his face. He smiled at seeing her awake, and sat next to her on the bed.
"It is good to see you have awakened Welestra. You have healed quicker than any of us had anticipated. My name is Erestor, advisor to Lord Elrond."
"And how is it that you have come by my name, Erestor?" she asked in curiousity.
"We all know of the strange young woman stabbed by a morgul blade yet nearly walked all the way to our haven here in the Misty Mountains," he replied. "You have amazed all of us this past night."
"But I though Lord Elrond was the one who healed me," she tried to sit up, but pain eminated from her wound, and Erestor stopped her, encouraging her to lie back down.
"He was, but myself and the rest of his councilors have all been tending to you during the night. We may not be as skilled as Lord Elrond, but we do know a thing or two about the healing arts," he chuckled at his last statement, and Welestra's confusion melted away into a smile.
"It's strange, that someone would perform a duty that any one would normally think you were not required or skilled to do. It is certainly a much different structure than anywhere I have been," she paused. "Not that it is a bad thing."
"Have you never visited an elven house before?" Erestor asked, brow quirked.
"No, I have not, though I am quite entranced by them," Welestra answered. "In fact, you are the first Elf I have awarely met Erestor."
He nodded, seemingly content with the answer. "I suppose there is a first time for everything. Lord Elrond bade me to inform him when you awoke, so I must go." He stood up, but turned back to look at her. "But when you have reached full health again, I hope you will share your story with myself and the rest of the house. Eager are we to hear fresh tales, regardless of how simple or complicated they are."
With that Erestor left, and Welestra was alone in the room again. The breeze stirred the curtains, and drifted around her encouraging her to sit up. She smiled peacefully, knowing her sister had returned, and slowly but with her returning strength she sat up, only feeling slight pain. She found herself dressed in a simple ice blue gown, probably from Arwen, and her long midnight blue hair had been pulled back in elvish fashion. Her sister's voice appeared in her head again, and she listened intently.
Do you see now sister?
It was not all me though.
I know, and I am grateful that you were able to get to Elrond in time. But know that he merely helped you, not healed you.
What do you mean?
You have not come back into your full powers yet, so had you healed yourself entirely on your own you would still be asleep in Elrond's bedchambers.
I'm in Elrond's bed?!
Yes. Where did you think you were?
Not in Elrond's room, if that's what you mean. Didn't he sleep the past night?
No, he has not. He has been awake tending to both you and the hobbit, as well as ensuring you and the company you arrived with were taken care of.
He must be exhausted.......
You know he is not sister. You know the race of the Elves better than anyone.
True. But there's something I don't understand.
What is that?
You said that I had the power to heal myself, but just now you said that if I had healed myself on my own I would still be asleep. I don't understand.
I know, and I am sorry I confused you. I had not realized just how far you were from yourself. I spoke truth when I said that you could heal yoursef, and you have for you were always a quick healer and the best of all of us. But because you have forgotten so much, had you tried it would have exhausted you. Healing is one of your strongest skills, and never did any of us worry for you because of it. We all felt safe because you always knew what to do. But Elrond's great skills in the art of healing helped you heal yourself. You were fine long before dawn because his skills had temporarily awakened your own.
Temporarily? Does that mean I've lost them again?
Only you can answer that question sister.
They were disrupted by the sudden opening of the door, and Elrond walked in wearing a simple silver robe with a long navy blue belt made of a shimmery cloth. Gone was his circlet, but Vilya did he wear on his right hand which Welestra originally would not have seen due to his long sleeves without sensing it. He smiled and bowed his head.
"I see you are much better this morning. Erestor told me that you had awoken, so I have come to be sure that all wounds have healed." He walked up to the bed. "How are you feeling?"
"Much better than when I had arrived Lord Elrond," she answered. "It only hurts when I move."
"That can be taken care of if you so choose, Welestra. Has the wound closed?"
She rubbed the spot where the dagger had struck. "I think so. I felt no pull on my skin when I sat up."
He sat down on the bed. "Allow me to check."
Welestra moved her hand which was replaced by Elrond's. He retraced where her hand had been, causing her to flinch when he touched where the blade had precisely gone in. After a moment he pulled his hand away.
"It has closed up completely, though I must say I have never met one with such quick natural healing abilities," he commented surprisedly. "You fare off better than Frodo is."
She furrowed her brow. "What do you mean, if I may ask?"
His face went solemn. "Unfortunately, Frodo's wound will hinder him the rest of his life. Many years have I practised the healing arts, but even my own skills cannot wholly fight the poison of Mordor. How you were able to erase it from yourself I know not, but you should count yourself lucky indeed."
Welestra reflected on his words; now she understood completely why Frodo left for the Havens, and after the Undying Lands. She looked back at him. "Then that makes two of us. I do not even know how I have arrived here, nor do I know completely what I am. I seemed to have inherited some odd skills in the recent day."
"Yes, I am aware of them. There is a presence following you; it is all around you now as we speak," Elrond explained.
She was puzzled. "You know about her?"
He nodded. "Yes. And I can also communicate with this presence should the need arise-" He pushed up his sleeve. "The stone in Vilya has taken on new life since your arrival."
She gazed at the craft, weaving gold bands all around holding the sapphire in place. The blue of the stone was brilliant, nearly as bright as her own eyes. "Can you speak to her like I can?"
"I have," he answered. "But she only tells me so much; she is under oath not to breathe anything other than what she has already said."
"Has she told you anything she has not said to me?" Welestra eagerly inquired. Elrond sighed.
"Perhaps we should meet with your friend Siri and discuss this. She is eager to see how you are."
Chapter Two - Trailing to Rivendell
Siri nodded and pulled on Welestra's arm as a indication for her to scoot back and she did so, both of them scurrying back into the shadows for a moment. In front of them, leaving the inn were Strider and the hobbits. They could barely be seen in the darkness, like mere phantasms, but the girls knew it was them so they waited until they had given the group a head start, and then they followed.
They tried to remain quiet as they followed Strider and his companions, always staying in the shadows as best they could. There were a few times when they thought they had lost the group and Welestra was amazed at how after
just a moment's worth of concentration Siri seemed to know exactly where they were going with almost no effort.
"We cannot fall too far behind them," Welestra protested as Siri stopped for a moment.
Siri waved a hand for Welestra to be quiet and though she scowled, Welestra did so.
Then the reason for why Siri had bid her quiet became obvious. A few feet ahead of them they heard a voice, soft yet authoritative....it was obviously Strider.
"Very well...perhaps I was mistaken; I thought we were being followed."
"Followed?" The question sounded as if it were posed by Frodo.
"Yes followed....I hear nothing now. Come let us continue."
Siri remained frozen, as did Welestra, and neither girl moved nor spoke for the space of about ten minutes.
After Siri felt it was safe she let out a breath and looked at Welestra. "You can talk us out of any situation, and you are far better at doing that sort of thing than I...but when it comes to where we are going, and how far people
are ahead of us, I think I have the corner on that market."
Welestra also exhaled deeply and nodded. "I thought we had fallen behind...I had no idea they were that close. How did you know?"
Siri shrugged and took a step forward, deeming it safe for them to follow the group. "I don't know, I just felt it...I have no idea how."
"Well if you know all of that then...how close are we to Weathertop?"
Siri paused again, as if gauging the distance in her mind. "About a half hour, maybe twenty if we travel quickly."
"That's amazing," Welestra muttered of Siri's navigation abilities.
Siri shook her head, her silver hair falling across her amethyst eyes. "YOU are the amazing one Lestra; you have talked us into everything and made all the wise decisions. I haven't done a thing except get us where we need to be once or twice."
Welestra chuckled as the two girls carefully continued on towards Weathertop. "I think you are giving me way too much credit here Siri, you are amazing with a sword."
"Too much credit? Never Lestra, and I'm really not all that good."
Siri paused again and Welestra stopped as well, weary of her friend since she always seemed to know when to halt.
"What is it?" Welestra whispered. "Have they stopped again?"
"No," Siri said, an odd look on her face. "I just realized something is all...if things are going the way they are supposed to be going..."
"The hobbits will get attacked by the Nazgul, we will follow them, and then Arwen will speed Frodo off to Rivendell." Welestra finished.
"Exactly...Rivendell," Siri repeated, her amethyst eyes becoming clouded over.
It took a moment for Welestra to realize what her best friend was thinking, where her thoughts had fallen, then it struck her like a bolt. She frowned a bit, realizing what was wrong. "Boromir," she simply stated. She
knew Siri had always loved the character of Boromir, before the movie and even more so after it; she was an expert on all things Boromir in a way that would have surprised Tolkien himself. Welestra understood this better than
anyone else so she placed a gentle hand on Siri's arm.
"All the more reason for us to get there...we will have to do something Siri. If you couldn't stand watching him die in the movie you wont be able to...."
She trailed off as she felt Siri cringe. She watched as her friend tried to shake it off for the sake of getting them where they needed to go.
"Forget it....come on. I can't believe I was even thinking about that, how ridiculous of me."
Welestra nodded and followed after Siri, pushing strands of her deep blue- black hair from her pale face. She knew with that thought imbedded in the back of her mind, Siri wouldn't quite be the same.
True to Siri's words roughly a half hour later Weathertop was in sight. The two girls paused, Welestra's hand still resting on Siri's arm and they stared up in awe.
"It's amazing," Welestra said, her deep, midnight blue eyes wide with wonder.
Siri nodded, her full lips parted in a gasp of amazement. "What should we do now?" Siri asked, turning to her friend.
"I think we should..."
Welestra trailed off as Siri pulled her by the arm into the bushes, deep into the shadows.
"What?" Welestra whispered.
"We are too late, Strider moved faster than I anticipated; the Nazgul are right behind us. We cannot risk going out in the open, they will attack us and kill us before we could ever get to Strider for help.... SSSH." Siri
muttered, clamping a hand over her friend's mouth.
They both heard it then, Frodo yelling at the other Hobbits to put the fire out, and the mountain went black. Once again came the bone-chilling screech and Siri could feel the goose bumps upon her slender arms. They had tried
desperately to get here before the Nazgul but to no avail. Then came hoofbeats as the Nazgul and their steeds rode past, the horse's breath rising in billows of frost. The two girls said nothing, both clutching the other's
hand in silent comfort as the Nine made their way past, towards Weathertop. The two girls watched, stunned and helpless; there was seemingly nothing they could do.
"But Frodo-" Siri yelped as she saw the Nine scaling Weathertop.
"Things will once again have to take their course, we will not be able to stop things from happening or help them until we are prepared," Welestra stated matter-of-factly.
Siri sighed but nodded in agreement. "We are going to have to get up there though. We have to help them after
Frodo gets stabbed at least."
Welestra nodded and both paused, then they ventured out from their hiding place and scurried across the dark landscape, making their way towards the imposing Weathertop. Both girls drew their swords, just in case they were confronted, but soon they were atop the ruins and saw there was no need; Strider had fought the last Nazgul off with a torch and all of the commotion was around Frodo. Both girls were about to hurry over when they were both yanked backwards roughly and felt a blade across their necks.
"Tell me exactly who you are, and why you have been following us...I have no time to play games."
The voice was unmistakable. It was Strider, and he was in no mood for excuses from either of the girls whom he obviously considered strange intruders.
"We are not enemies, if that is what you believe," Welestra stated, surprisingly calm with a sword at her throat. "We are on our way to Rivendell in hopes of speaking with Elrond Half-Elven. We are in need of his counsel."
"And was it you who were trailing us?" Strider questioned.
"Yes," Siri admitted. "We are not entirely clear of the road, and would sooner trust a Ranger's judgement than our own."
Strider hesitantly lowered his sword. "Instinct tells me that you may be telling the truth, but my heart tells me otherwise. What reason would an Elf and a mortal woman, who arrive into Bree clad in unusual garments and leave in different attire with weapons they did not own, have to see Lord Elrond and get there by following a Ranger?"
"Partly was to avoid answering questions we don't have the answers to," Welestra answered. "Our arrival here puzzles us as well, and unfortunately we do not have time to describe the tale as we know it. It is obvious your hobbit friend is hurt, and we will offer up our swords to aid you to Rivendell. You will be more vulnerable to the wraiths now that you have an injured comrade."
Strider paused; the woman was right. With Frodo hurt he would not be able to defend neither himself or the hobbits should the Nazgul find them again, which he was sure they would. "Tell me your names before I decide whether to accept your offer."
"I am Welestra,"
"And I am Siri," she answered, preferring to keep her name short for the time being. Strider stood up and helped the both of them to their feet.
"Very well Welestra and Siri, I accept your aid." He turned back to Frodo, who was encircled by the hobbits, and checked the injury. "A morgul blade.....he has been stabbed by it." The discarded blade crumbled to fine dust when Strider picked it up. He turned to Siri. "This is beyond my skill. Can your skill match those of Lord Elrond?"
She shook her head. "I am no healer. Your skills far surpass mine Strider I am sure of it."
He looked puzzled. "Are you not of Elvish kindred?"
"No I am not," she answered.
"Then how is it that you possess Elvish traits?"
"These are questions that can be answered later," Welestra interjected. She bent over Frodo and examined his wound for herself, then gazed into Frodo's eyes. So much pain did she read there. She turned to those around him. "We must make haste. Frodo's spirit is strong, but he will not last if we banter around her much longer."
Strider nodded his agreement and picked Frodo up, hoisting the hobbit over his shoulder. Sam looked helplessly up at Strider walking away with his master, then at Welestra. "Is he going to die?"
She smiled in reassurance and knelt down to his level. "He'll be fine Samwise. Once he gets to Rivendell all will be well."
Sam looked like he wanted to believe her, but was unsure. She ushered him along, and the both of them had to run to catch up to the rest of them.
Strider led them through the thickets, moving quickly with Frodo over his shoulder. He muttered reassurances to the hobbit, reassurances meant for his ears only but heard by Siri and Welestra as well. A wind blew, and Welestra closed her eyes partially as she listened to it speak to her again. Her concentration to its words almost made her run into the group, where Strider had set Frodo down after a time. His eyes were glazing over, and he was breathing shallowly. Welestra tried to stay with what was going on, but the wind was persistent and would not let her rest. She looked around bewildered, and Siri noticed.
"Lestra what is it?"
"Too many things at once," she said, still gazing about. "Too many things coming at us at once."
"What is it?" Strider asked Siri, noticing the situation.
"Welestra possesses a gift of seeing with the wind, though neither of us know how she came by it," Siri replied, turning her amethyst eyes to meet his dark brown. "It began when we arrived."
"Perhaps we can use it to our advantage," Strider commented. "You stay here with the other hobbits, and Welestra can watch for danger." He turned to Sam. "Sam do you know altheas?"
"Altheas?" he repeated.
"Kingsfoil," Strider tried.
"Kingsfoil's a weed," Sam concluded.
"It may help. Hurry!"
Strider went off with Sam in search of the plant. Siri was kneeling down by Frodo with Merry and Pippin while Welestra stood sentinel, the wind still talking. She closed her eyes in concentration as Merry and Pippin looked on.
"What's she doing?" Merry whispered to Siri.
"Seeing with the wind," Siri answered in the same tone.
"How do you do that?" Pippin asked, slightly louder than Merry.
She shrugged. "I don't know. You'll have to ask Welestra."
Suddenly her eyes shot open, and she cast her glance over her shoulder, terror on her face. "They're coming!"
"Who's coming?!" Merry and Pippin asked in unison. Their question fell on deaf ears.
Siri, knowing who she meant, drew her sword. "How far are they?"
Welestra's eyes closed again and her face crinkled in confusion. "I......I don't know. It's......it's telling me....." She trailed off, and her confusion grew. "It's telling me to heal Frodo......but I can't....." Again Welestra trailed off.
Siri looked around, searching for something. She turned to the hobbits. "Merry, Pippin, go and find some dead branches, small enough for you to defend yourself with. The wraiths are coming."
The two hobbits were bewildered, but they found courage in her calmness and did what she had said, finding two branches not far from Frodo. Pround and scared all in the same instant they ran back to Siri. "Now what?" Pippin asked.
Siri searched her bag, and found her matches. Skillfully she ripped one off and lit it. "Okay, now hold them still," Carefully she lowered the flame to Pippin's branch which sprang to life with fire. Merry held his just over Pippin's while Siri flicked her wrist, extinguishing the little flame.
Meanwhile a voice had entered Welestra's head, a light and airy female voice she knew but never heard before.
You must help him.
I can't.
Yes you can.
I don't know how.
Yes you do. You must remember, sister.
Sister?! Why did-
Hush! She's coming.
Before Welestra could answer and right after Siri extinguished the match, hoofbeats filled the air. Pippin and Merry took a defensive stance near Frodo, but Siri waved them down.
"It's okay. Someone else rides up."
"Who?" Merry asked.
He was answered by the image of the rider. She rode atop a dappled white horse, and the hobbits looked on in awe. Frodo struggled to look up, and saw the person in an enticing light. She spoke to him in elvish after she dismounted, and knelt beside him.
"Why she's an elf!" Merry exclaimed in amazement.
"He's fading fast," she replied in dismay. "We must get him to my father's halls."
Silently Strider picked Frodo up and walked with the Elf to her horse. They conversed more in elvish, then the Elf rode off with Frodo. Sam, who had returned with Strider, became angry.
"What do you think you're doing?! He won't be safe with the wraiths out there!"
"And neither will we," Welestra answered. "They're coming this way."
"Do you know from where?" Strider asked.
Dread was in her features. "Five behind us. The other four went after Arwen and Frodo."
The wind died, having served its purpose, but the hoofbeats were clear. Strider unsheathed his sword, Pippin and Merry resumed their defensive stances, Siri stood behind and Welestra turned to face the oncoming threat by Strider, blade risen. Like foreboding shadows of evil they came closer, more and more visible each time.
"We may be matched five for five, but with them on horses we stand no chance," Siri called out.
"Then we must even the odds," Strider called back. "Do what you must to get them off the saddle!"
Before any of them could blink the Nazgul were upon them. Strider slashed at the foremost rider, cutting the saddle strap and forcing the rider to plummet to the earth. Welestra flipped the sword in her right hand, which was protected by thick leather sleeves, and pulled out her dagger. Almost immediately after Strider knocked the first Nazgul down she hit the next one with the hilt of her sword, spun on her heel and slashed as the horse ran by, cutting the stirrup and throwing the Nazgul off. Merry and Pippin swatted at another Nazgul with their flaming branches, taking turns until the wraith tumbled off in confusion. Siri, seeing the two remaining, sheathed her sword and grabbed her daggers, cutting two legs as she ducked and they rode by. The two hobbits had driven off the third wraith by setting it aflame, and Merry ran to Strider and Welestra while Pippin ran to Siri. He tossed his branch to her and she caught it, turning and slamming it into the approaching Nazgul, driving it off. Strider mimicked Siri and his earlier fight and ended up driving the two Nazgul off at the sight of fire. Everyone stopped, relieved, but could not make out what the Nazgul were trying to do. Hoofs and screams could be heard all around.
"Now what?" Siri asked.
"We should move," Strider asked. "Follow a stream to the Bruinen. The ringwraiths won't follow."
Quickly they moved, eager all the more to get to Rivendell where they would be safe. The hoofs and screams got farther away as they moved, but something was following. Welestra turned, the pull of her curiousity too strong to resist, to see what it was.......
And was greeted with the dagger of the Witch-King thrown into her stomach.
A sound escaped her throat as pain coarsed through. The others turned in time to see the Witch-King stride back to the horse and mount, riding off. Welestra ripped the dagger from her abdomen and threw it aside, dropping to her knees and cringing. Strider and Siri ran to her.
"You too," Siri breathed, examining the wound as Strider supported her.
"Come, get up," Strider encouraged, gently hauling her to her feet. "I will carry you."
"No," Welestra protested hoarsely. "I can walk. You lead Strider, I'll keep up."
Knowing he had to make a decision, Strider agreed. Off they went again, drawing closer and closer to their destination. For the most part Welestra kept up with Siri's support, but the wound was taking its toll. She could feel its evil slowly trying to take her over, and it began to cause her to doubt herself regarding her ability to fight.
A breeze picked up, wafting around the company. The light, airy voice returned and all of them could now feel its presence though only Welestra could hear it.
Sister, you must be strong.
Why do you call me sister? Who are you?
I call you sister because you are my sister. I cannot say now who I am, nor do I desire to for such a thing deserves to be in person. I have missed you dearly, and so have our brothers.
I don't understand.
I know, and you will not for a long time. But you once told me that should this happen, this is how you wanted it to be handled; it was the only way that you would become yourself again.
Become myself?
Yes, there is much you have forgotten, but there are some who can help you find the answers. Seeking them out will help you find yourself.
I don't think I'm going to last long enough to see it.
You will, sister. Be strong.
I can't! The poison is too strong.
You can. You are above it; you have the strength to withstand it and the power to heal yourself of it.
Sister I-
Do not say the word can't. You have never believed in that word. Lhestwa olremo mes casta.
What?
Lhestwa olremo mes casta. Evil is only as strong as you let it.
Lhestwa olremo mes casta.......
Be strong, sister. Well will be reunited once again.
Welestra began to stumble, but she would not stop walking. She began to repeat what her sister told her, the words that were so familiar to her tongue but alien to her ears and the company.
"Welestra, what are you saying?" Siri asked, partially pulling her friend along.
"Lhestwa olremo mes casta," Welestra whispered. "Lhestwa olremo mes casta."
"Welestra!" Siri exclaimed. It was the last thing Welestra heard before she fell into unconsciousness.
Siri both felt and heard Welestra fall into unconsciousness. She grew pale, even paler than normal if such was actually possible and she shook her friend, calling her name over and over. At first in a frantic whisper, a
whisper that quickly became a desperate scream.
"Lestra, Lestra, LESTRA!"
She gritted her teeth and hauled Welestra up from where she had crumpled to the ground like a discarded doll.
Strider turned and so did the three reaming Hobbits.
"What has happened?" Strider inquired as he ran to Welestra and Siri.
"She is unconscious. She passed out...she is much worse than thought. We have to move, and move now." Siri intoned, suddenly barking out orders as if she were in a war.
Strider blinked at Siri's words. "I will have to carry her."
Siri shook her head, silver tresses falling in front of her eyes. "You will not, I will take care of her...JUST LEAD."
Strider blinked again and shook his head as he took a step forward. "You can do no such thing, you are far too frail and..."
"I AM NO SUCH THING RANGER! NOW lead." She stopped screaming and trailed off, realizing she had been harsh, but this was her best friend and her life was on the line...Siri would have gladly taken Welestra's place.
Merry, Strider, Pippin and Sam watched in amazement as Siri, seemingly so frail and willow-slender hefted Welestra over one shoulder, carefully supporting her friends head and stepped forward without falter. She nodded and took a deep breath then fell in line beside Merry and Pippin. She was not going to let anything happen to Welestra, she would never forgive herself...she knew Welestra would do the same for her, their bond of friendship was strong and nothing would break it, certainly not a poison dagger.
"Is she...going to be ok?" Merry asked tentatively as he looked at Welestra's prone form.
"Of course she will if I have anything to do with it," Siri stated, taking quick steps forward.
"But how can you carry her? You don't look very strong," Pippin said, chiming in with his friend.
"Strength my brave hobbit lies not in the build but in the will and the heart, for the heart goes on and does what it must when the body admits defeat."
"Are you sure you aren't an Elf?" Merry said, studying Siri with unashamed, curious eyes. "You sure sound like one!"
"And she's pretty like one too!" Sam said, after which he blushed crimson as if wishing he had not spoken up.
"I am quite sure, at least not that I am aware of," Siri said, her steps never slowing as she followed behind Strider. "I am nothing extraordinary, Lestra on the other hand is I believe...but more than anything she is my closest friend and therefore I will not LET her die."
Sam smiled, nodding as if he understood the bond of friendship between the two girls; after all he had Frodo and the worry for his friend was evident on his face. Siri noticed this and tried to give him an encouraging smile.
True to her completely selfless nature, never thinking of herself she tried to comfort Sam with her words.
"Worry not Sam, Frodo will be all right."
He looked doubtful. "But how do you know?"
She smiled again as she carefully balanced Welestra's weight. "There are some things I just know Sam, and I can promise you Frodo shall be just fine."
He seemed a bit more encouraged and nodded to Siri. "I'm a simple fellow Siri, but my heart tells me to trust you, it really does...so I will."
Siri smiled softly, her heart eaten with worry for Welestra as she appeared beside Strider.
"We follow the Bruinen to the Ford, but we must stay more in the woods, in cover. We cannot walk the water's edge like this."
Strider flashed her a skeptical look, his eyes studying her with a cool, analytical look. "Why? How do you know so much of where and how we travel yet seemingly nothing of yourself?"
Siri sighed and bit her lower lip. "Once again I cannot give you answers; Lestra had more answers than I did, and you will have to trust me. If we follow the Loudwater on it's banks we will encounter the Nazgul and
that is a confrontation we are ill equipped to handle."
Strider studied her again, as if trying to read her heart, her very soul, his eyes penetrating hers. He then placed a rough hand upon her shoulder and nodded. "I have little choice but to trust you, after all you have been
right so far...we will stay within the woods."
Siri nodded and the group as a whole cut farther into the forest, staying away from the river's edge. Siri's suspicions were confirmed when a chill ran up her spine.
"Halt." Her voice was a whisper yet firm, and all three hobbits, even Strider froze.
"What is it?" Pippin whispered, his eyes darting back and forth.
"The Nazgul are just ahead, angered and defeated...but alive nonetheless; do NOT move."
The group scattered, Sam and Merry hiding behind a tree, Siri and Pippin taking shelter in bushes, Strider following them. True to Siri's words there was a loud screeching wail, and though they could not be seen, all heard the Nazgul ride past in a flurry of screeches and thundering hoof beats.
A few breathless moments passed until Siri stepped out, still holding Welestra tightly. The others followed her example.
"You were right...again. Forgive me for doubting you," Strider said sincerely, his eyes meeting Siri's.
"We have no time for apologies, we must reach Rivendell before the defeated wraiths meet their kindred behind us and we are assaulted...come."
Siri stepped forward and whispered softly to Welestra. "Hold on Lestra, just hold on I am going to get you to Rivendell, I promise you I will...I promise you will make it." Her full lips then locked into a grim, determined frown and she quickened her pace, causing Strider himself to sprint forward to keep up.
Within the space of a few heartbeats they could see the Ford...and they knew just beyond it lay Rivendell. Siri stopped for a moment and took Welestra from her shoulder and placed her in both arms, hugging her friend tightly to her chest as if she could somehow further protect her. She made for the gates, followed by Strider, Merry, Pippin and Sam.
Strider began to explain exactly what had happened to an elf that greeted them but Siri had no time for explanations; Welestra had gone whiter than a sheet, and her lips were turning pale, her breathing ragged. Siri gasped in horror at her friend's condition and sprinted forward past Strider and a company of elves. She had to get Welestra to Elrond...quickly.
She seemed to somehow know Rivendell even though she had never been there before, and it was far past knowledge of reading books, or watching films. She knew exactly where Elrond's home was, and running at a frantic, frenzied speed she reached it quickly. She was going to demand entrance when the door opened and before her stood Lord Elrond, dressed in rich emerald and garnet robes, his long brown hair tumbling across his brow. He bowed his head and looked directly at Siri. She was too awed to speak, and as if sensing that he nodded and gestured gracefully with one hand for her to enter, then moved aside so she could do so.
"I...I'm Siri, this is Lestra, I...oh forget it, just help her! You HAVE to help her!"
Elrond quirked a brow but smiled. "Calm yourself child, I sensed your arrival. Come into my chambers and lay
her upon the bed. It was a Nazgul blade yes?"
Siri nodded, sweat beading on her pale forehead, her pale, slender hands shaking as she laid Welestra down upon the satin sheets that lay upon the beautifully carved bed.
"Can you help her?" Siri insisted, reluctant to move she hovered over Elrond's shoulder, her stunning amethyst eyes filled with concern and grief.
"I can help her, though she is gravely wounded; it will take much effort but I can do this. However I cannot do it if you follow me like a nervous shadow!"
Siri blinked, an abashed look on her pale face as she sighed, her hands falling to her sides. "I am sorry Lord Elrond, I am merely worried."
Elrond turned to Siri and gently pushed her towards the door with the gentle smile of a father. "I know you are...please, let me do what I must."
Having no choice Siri admitted defeat and slipped out the door, where she passed a nervous group of Hobbits and Strider checking on Frodo, who still lay unconscious in his bed.
Hearing her shut the door Strider looked up, as did Pippin.
"Will she be all right? Can Elrond help her?" Pippin asked, glancing at Siri with a look of concern.
"He is doing all he can...all I can do now...is wait" Siri said, frustration evident in her voice.
Strider walked to her side and placed his hand once again on her shoulder, as if trying to comfort her, but not truly knowing how. "Elrond's skills are unmatched. If anyone can save her it would be him."
"I know," Siri answered, her voice still tainted with worry. It was not that she didn't have faith in Elrond; she merely had no faith in faith itself.
She turned away from Strider roughly, her amethyst eyes brimming with tears of worry. She bit her lower lip and blinked them back; it was unlike Siri to cry, or to even be troubled but now was a rare exception.
She said nothing more to Strider even as he seemed about to follow her, instead she left Frodo's chambers and wandered out into Rivendell itself. There was little she could do, except hope that he could save Welestra
somehow and as she gazed about the splendor before her, she could feel her heart grow heavy with dread; Boromir. If things were happening even relatively close to sequence he would be arriving from Gondor soon. The beautiful White City Siri had always longed to see, the towers...but more than anything she was terrified that he would arrive, and she would not be able to even speak a word. Why would he be bothered with someone as insignificant as she?
Strider passed by her, and he knelt down and placed his hand below her chin and brought her eyes to his. "Your friend will make it, do not worry so. I do not know what troubles you but you have more strength inside than you know; there is something special about you. I do know that much, and your heart is heavy with burden and
fear, and so is mine."
He left her then, sitting on the steps of Elrond's home to drown in her own thoughts as day turned to dusk.
Welestra opened her eyes when the first rays of sunlight hit them, and gazed about. She was in an immesely large bed layered with feather-light iridescent satin sheets. There were walls containing the room in itself, but they were very open with many ornate carvings and wooden furniture, and soft curtains in pale colours wafted when the slight morning breeze touched them. She smiled; somehow she had made it to Rivendell. She could feel no pain nor poison and knew she had been healed, most likey by the good Lord Elrond. An Elf walked in then, dressed in black and slate blue robes, his dark hair spilled over his shoulders like a long waterfall and pushed back to keep from falling into his face. He smiled at seeing her awake, and sat next to her on the bed.
"It is good to see you have awakened Welestra. You have healed quicker than any of us had anticipated. My name is Erestor, advisor to Lord Elrond."
"And how is it that you have come by my name, Erestor?" she asked in curiousity.
"We all know of the strange young woman stabbed by a morgul blade yet nearly walked all the way to our haven here in the Misty Mountains," he replied. "You have amazed all of us this past night."
"But I though Lord Elrond was the one who healed me," she tried to sit up, but pain eminated from her wound, and Erestor stopped her, encouraging her to lie back down.
"He was, but myself and the rest of his councilors have all been tending to you during the night. We may not be as skilled as Lord Elrond, but we do know a thing or two about the healing arts," he chuckled at his last statement, and Welestra's confusion melted away into a smile.
"It's strange, that someone would perform a duty that any one would normally think you were not required or skilled to do. It is certainly a much different structure than anywhere I have been," she paused. "Not that it is a bad thing."
"Have you never visited an elven house before?" Erestor asked, brow quirked.
"No, I have not, though I am quite entranced by them," Welestra answered. "In fact, you are the first Elf I have awarely met Erestor."
He nodded, seemingly content with the answer. "I suppose there is a first time for everything. Lord Elrond bade me to inform him when you awoke, so I must go." He stood up, but turned back to look at her. "But when you have reached full health again, I hope you will share your story with myself and the rest of the house. Eager are we to hear fresh tales, regardless of how simple or complicated they are."
With that Erestor left, and Welestra was alone in the room again. The breeze stirred the curtains, and drifted around her encouraging her to sit up. She smiled peacefully, knowing her sister had returned, and slowly but with her returning strength she sat up, only feeling slight pain. She found herself dressed in a simple ice blue gown, probably from Arwen, and her long midnight blue hair had been pulled back in elvish fashion. Her sister's voice appeared in her head again, and she listened intently.
Do you see now sister?
It was not all me though.
I know, and I am grateful that you were able to get to Elrond in time. But know that he merely helped you, not healed you.
What do you mean?
You have not come back into your full powers yet, so had you healed yourself entirely on your own you would still be asleep in Elrond's bedchambers.
I'm in Elrond's bed?!
Yes. Where did you think you were?
Not in Elrond's room, if that's what you mean. Didn't he sleep the past night?
No, he has not. He has been awake tending to both you and the hobbit, as well as ensuring you and the company you arrived with were taken care of.
He must be exhausted.......
You know he is not sister. You know the race of the Elves better than anyone.
True. But there's something I don't understand.
What is that?
You said that I had the power to heal myself, but just now you said that if I had healed myself on my own I would still be asleep. I don't understand.
I know, and I am sorry I confused you. I had not realized just how far you were from yourself. I spoke truth when I said that you could heal yoursef, and you have for you were always a quick healer and the best of all of us. But because you have forgotten so much, had you tried it would have exhausted you. Healing is one of your strongest skills, and never did any of us worry for you because of it. We all felt safe because you always knew what to do. But Elrond's great skills in the art of healing helped you heal yourself. You were fine long before dawn because his skills had temporarily awakened your own.
Temporarily? Does that mean I've lost them again?
Only you can answer that question sister.
They were disrupted by the sudden opening of the door, and Elrond walked in wearing a simple silver robe with a long navy blue belt made of a shimmery cloth. Gone was his circlet, but Vilya did he wear on his right hand which Welestra originally would not have seen due to his long sleeves without sensing it. He smiled and bowed his head.
"I see you are much better this morning. Erestor told me that you had awoken, so I have come to be sure that all wounds have healed." He walked up to the bed. "How are you feeling?"
"Much better than when I had arrived Lord Elrond," she answered. "It only hurts when I move."
"That can be taken care of if you so choose, Welestra. Has the wound closed?"
She rubbed the spot where the dagger had struck. "I think so. I felt no pull on my skin when I sat up."
He sat down on the bed. "Allow me to check."
Welestra moved her hand which was replaced by Elrond's. He retraced where her hand had been, causing her to flinch when he touched where the blade had precisely gone in. After a moment he pulled his hand away.
"It has closed up completely, though I must say I have never met one with such quick natural healing abilities," he commented surprisedly. "You fare off better than Frodo is."
She furrowed her brow. "What do you mean, if I may ask?"
His face went solemn. "Unfortunately, Frodo's wound will hinder him the rest of his life. Many years have I practised the healing arts, but even my own skills cannot wholly fight the poison of Mordor. How you were able to erase it from yourself I know not, but you should count yourself lucky indeed."
Welestra reflected on his words; now she understood completely why Frodo left for the Havens, and after the Undying Lands. She looked back at him. "Then that makes two of us. I do not even know how I have arrived here, nor do I know completely what I am. I seemed to have inherited some odd skills in the recent day."
"Yes, I am aware of them. There is a presence following you; it is all around you now as we speak," Elrond explained.
She was puzzled. "You know about her?"
He nodded. "Yes. And I can also communicate with this presence should the need arise-" He pushed up his sleeve. "The stone in Vilya has taken on new life since your arrival."
She gazed at the craft, weaving gold bands all around holding the sapphire in place. The blue of the stone was brilliant, nearly as bright as her own eyes. "Can you speak to her like I can?"
"I have," he answered. "But she only tells me so much; she is under oath not to breathe anything other than what she has already said."
"Has she told you anything she has not said to me?" Welestra eagerly inquired. Elrond sighed.
"Perhaps we should meet with your friend Siri and discuss this. She is eager to see how you are."