Here's chappeh two. ^_^
And thanks to all my reviewers!
Becca Stareyes - Thank you for the constructive criticism. =) And the reason it's marked AU, is because of some things that happen later on. *grins evilly* And also thank you for your offer... but alas, I have a proof-reader already.
Coolio02 - Will do ^^
nevfacwen - I agree. P.J. should be sued for that.
Gionareth - Thanks much =D
Mr. Kittlez - Couldn't have done it without you, Sissle. ^____^ *hugglez*
Taraisilwen - Yes, I do love Aragorn and Arwen. Who couldn't be moved by her choice? And thanks muchly (even if that isn't a word =P).
Disclaimer: See chapter one. And oh yes, some of the parts in this story are directly from the RP it's based off. That means, I didn't write all of it by myself. Give credit to Mr. Kittlez. She deserves it. ^^
Flames shall be used as bubble-bath for my pet Balrog, FiFi LaFlame
~~~
A Day Without Rain
Chapter Two
For three days Aragorn had managed to escape the duties he'd taken up as king, not counting the daily councils that he -did- attend. Perhaps everyone understood how much stress the man had taken in the past months, and a few days with an old friend may give him some well-earned rest.
Yet peace could not last forever.
The two were sitting outside, having an idle chat, discussing times gone by, like the time they met, when little Estel was but ten years old, and Haldir had left Rumil and Orophin to look over Lorien, while he accompanied Celeborn to Imladris for reasons the Elf-lord did not share. He had taken a liking to the boy, who he understood was Isildur's heir.
Of course, the little human looked up at the silver-haired Elves with awe and wonder, being so used to the dark-haired ones of his home. Aragorn remembered smiling shyly at the tall Elf, and Haldir made no hesitation to return the smile kindly. Who knew it would lead to such a close friendship?
Haldir's laugh brought them both out of thought.
"I had come when the twins were teaching you to use a bow." He remembered, grinning. Aragorn raised a brow, trying to think back on the time. It had been so long ago in his mortal mind, obviously not so for someone... however old Haldir was. Yet still the memories flooded his head.
"I... shot you in the foot." The king stated, chuckling. Of course, while his foster-brothers laughed hysterically, and Elrond was scolding them and trying to help Haldir, Estel had felt terrible, not ceasing his apologies until Haldir had left two weeks later.
"I remember." Haldir muttered, rubbing at his boot as if the wound was still there after eighty-some years. "And I also--"
"My lord!"
Both Aragorn and Haldir simutaneously looked to where a guard came running out.
"I am sorry to bother you, my lord, but a messenger has just arrived from South Ithilien. Urgent news regarding the Haradrim! He suggests to call a council immediately." He continued, out of breath from running all over, looking for the former Ranger. Aragorn sighed, although stood right away.
"Of course. Thank you." Aragorn replied, nodding for the guard to leave, before turning to Haldir, who was listening intently.
"I knew these past few days were going too well." The king murmured, walking back inside just as a few flakes of snow fell. November- and winter, was here.
~~~
And so an hour later, a council was assembled. Most of Gondor's important nobles were there, including a few named Hérfara, Gurfund, Namoron, Ellvalan, and Anoreth. Arwen was sitting next to her husband, speaking with Eowyn who sat beside the queen and Faramir. Aragorn had told Haldir to attend, and the Elf was sitting in a chair amongst the others, silent for the most part, and lastly, the messenger was there as well, sipping at some wine.
This sudden and myterious council had come as quite a surprise to all those that had been called to attend, even if they had some idea as to what it was regarding. The word 'Southrons' was commonly spoken the last few weeks.
Aragorn nodded to the messenger after everyone was there and settled, a strange sense of dread washing over him. What news could be deemed so ill and important, that it was necessary to hold a council on the spot?
"Please, I am quite eager to know what news you have brought in such a hurry."
The messenger nodded, taking another sip of his drink before speaking. "Lord," he began, "The Haradrim are reassembling in the South, and plan to attack Gondor, but for what reason, it is not plainly seen before me. The felling of the Dark Lord must have something to do with it, I have no doubt about. Their numbers are many! We came upon this news from well, our own eyes, as we travelled far south, and because of the Southron we captured. He told us some useful information, mostly that concerning his people's definate plans to attack the White City. I would have delivered him to you, my lord, to question, yet he attacked one of the scouts and we had no choice but to kill him" He reaccounted, face quite pale with worry for what was going on.
Aragorn sighed deeply, worry and anger etched deeply into his face. He knew Middle-earth could not stay peaceful forever, even with Sauron and his cursed ring vanquished. Of course, that didn't mean he wouldn't fight with every ounce of strength to regain that peace, and defend the city he had grown to love.
After no one said anything, and silence lingered in the room for many minutes, Haldir spoke up, obviously thinking the matter over as well.
"Then, battle seems to be the only way. Southrons are not easily convinced, and they speak tongues of which not many in the world know, if any alive indeed do." The Elf said, and no one doubted him; for he had lived far longer than any of them, including Arwen, and therefore had much more time to gather knowledge. Aragorn smiled, thankful for his best friend's advise.
"Haldir is right." He proclaimed after a moment, looking over each person with worried, grey eyes. The war barely over, and another begins. Not that he would ever dare compare the men of Harad to the dark lord and his servants (even if they were his servants), and it was highly unlikely the Southrons wanted power over all those in Middle-earth. Yet it was still a war, and war was not something anyone in their right mind would be pleased about.
"The Haradrim have resented Gondor for the longest time, not even those who do remember when it started have long left these shores. Even after we supposedly reached a peace agreement, it seems the hate towards this country was not stilled in their hearts." Aragorn frowned, closing his eyes a moment.
"And Haldir is also right in the sense that battle is the only way." His eyes wandered to the rather small window, and the white flakes falling gingerly from the sky. "I want no one to leave this city...or get in for that matter, unless we know they are friend and not some spy of our foe, wishing to do harm to Gondor or it's people." Aragorn looked to the captain of the guard.
"Please see to it that my word is set into place." The captain nodded, exiting the room shortly after. War, it seemed was upon them, and everyone understood. Eowyn was weeping silently at the news, the comforting arm of her husband wrapped around her shoulders to calm her. She had enough of war in the last one, for anyone who had faced up against the lord of the Nazgul would be. Arwen's eyes, too, seemed to be glistening with unshed tears, her smooth hand under Aragorn's calloused one.
The messenger stood at long last, giving a deep bow. "Begging your pardon, Lord Elessar, but I am very weary, and no more news of Harad do I bear. And I am not one of the council, so I will be taking to my rest, but this advice I will give: Make your choice quickly! In less than two weeks they will come, and already I think I was too late. Farewell!" And with that he exited. And all was quiet.
Haldir's voice broke the void of sorrowful silence.
"On my half, I can perhaps help with a small army of Elves from my own land, though it will be hasty and most out of order. And I may only do so by leave of my own lord. But alas, the choice remains with your king." With that, he fell silent again. Battle after battle, that was life, it seemed.
Aragorn shook his head instantly. "No. I will not bring the Elves into Gondor's affairs." He snapped, not meaning too. With a sigh, he offered his friend an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry, I know you were only trying to help. But in all truth, I ask no more of the Elves. They have done enough." Haldir only nodded, seemingly deep in thought, as all the others were.
"Yet we must make a decision before it is too late. They are a brutal people, will stop at nothing to reach their goal. And it seems, that their goal is destroy all that we've worked for, what so many people gave their life for. And I will not-- cannot let that happen." The former Ranger scowled. How dare they do this? Still following the wills of Sauron after all he did, using them for mere slaves to do his work. He couldn't grasp at that, didn't see how any people, even as wicked as they were, would want to live like that, believing someone so evil's teachings still, after he was defeated.
Haldir nodded. Aragorn was right. Faramir then spoke, "Long we have fought for Gondor's liberty, and we shall not lose it now. Not now! Not to anyone. My Lord, I counsel that we assemble all we can." Haldir nodded, "And Rohan is still an allie of Gondor, right? Unless my knowledge is indeed out-of- date." Faramir spoke again, "Yes, Rohan has remained true, and came at the battle of the Pelennor Fields, late, yes, but late is better than never."
"My thoughts as well... Rohan has ever been our friend. Faramir, you have been a resident here longer than I, so might you do me the favour of sending the fastest-riding messenger Gondor holds to Rohan?" The steward nodded, giving his friend and king a small smile.
"Of course. I know exactly whom to send." And so Faramir stood and left the room with Eowyn, quite glad to be out of the ominous atmosphere of that room.
After more silence, a seemingly common custom that was developing, Aragorn turned his head to Haldir.
"I surely hope Lorien may fair without you in these times of danger, for I would fear greatly for your life. I doubt the rodes are safe." He said with a small sigh. The Elf thought for a moment, before shaking his head.
"I shall stay. There's no use going back, sitting in a tree all day, while all of you strive for your country. But how shall I tell Celeborn? Any messengers will... Not be accepted... If you take... My meaning." The Warden raised a brow, knowing any outsiders, be them friend or foe, would likely be shot before they tried to take a step into Lorien. And it was likely no messenger would go to the mysterious woodland anyway, for it seemed to Men that no one left there unchanged.
Yet still, the promise he had made to his Lord and Lady before he set out came back to him. If any danger was to arise, he was to come back immediately with no delay, under any circumstances. Yet Celeborn and Galadriel would surely understand, if his life was in danger.
"I am sure he shall understand, my friend, and will figure it out himself. Do not trouble yourself with such thoughts." Yet even with Aragorn's words, Haldir still could not help but worry.
If the Haradrim were to move up to Lorien, then Celeborn would have no warning, and no one to lead them into battle, as his brothers has been killed in a previous battle, something that still etched a deep a burning pain into his heart. And if that were to happen, Lorien would indeed be doomed under the cruel and scathed hand of the Haradrim. It would fall and its people would fall with it. And Haldir would have broken the oath he made so long ago when first becoming the guardian of the Golden Wood.
His thoughts were broken when he realised Aragorn had been speaking, dismissing the council for now while everyone cleared their minds, and everyone was standing. Haldir did as well, the tallest one there, and as serious as everything was, he couldn't help but smirk lightly at the way the Gondorians looked at him like some demon of Morgoth, or some ridiculous thing. Yet Lorien was often viewed as some evil place, the Lady there a great witch, with even greater powers and curses. He could not even imagine Galadriel ever being thought of in such a way.
And so council let out, and the members went their seperate ways to do exactly what Aragorn had said: Think.
The king himself was sitting in his study, with a grave expression upon his face. Such terrible things had sudden befallen, when the days when Haldir was visiting should've been happy, and a time to remember times in the past. Instead, now Haldir was stuck in Minas Tirith, instead of back at his home, defending it, and they had barely two weeks to declare war on the Haradrim. What else was there to do? They obviously had no regard for offers of peace and such. They just still seemed to be hell-bent on destroying Gondor.
Haldir was wandering the halls somewhat, realising what a mistake it was to simply rush here, so shortly after the war. Not all of Sauron's servants were destroyed, for how could anyone destroy whole races of Southrons, Easterlings and Orcs? The silver-haired Warden shook his head, his light footing making not a sound on the polished floors. So unlike home. Everything was so... the same. In the wood, things changed every day. And there was always the Elves singing, and the wind swaying through the mightly trees that held their flets. Yes, Haldir loved Lothlorien, and always would, even when he passed into the West...
"I don't mean to bother you--" Faramir thought what Aragorn had said the Elf's name was, as he passed him in the halls. "Master Haldir, but have you seen my wife, Eowyn, anywhere? She disappeared when she heard the council was out, saying she wanted to go find the Lady Awen." Haldir shrugged, shaking his head slowly.
"Nay, I haven't. But you might ask Aragorn. He'll most likely know where Eowyn is, if she's indeed with the queen." Faramir nodded and headed towards Aragorn's study, the Elf following, out of the sheer fact there was nothing more to do.
Aragorn looked up from a book when the two entered, raising a brow. He really just wanted to be alone, even if it left one alone to think.
Faramir was silent for a moment. His friend really did looked terribly stressed. He could barely imagine what would've happened if Aragorn had never claimed the throne, and Faramir would be the lord of the city, responsible for protecting the lives threatened by the Southrons. Of course, he was a strong leader in his own right, yet Boromir had always been the one trained for stewardship, not him. He didn't envy Aragorn, that was for sure.
"I don't mean to disturb you, but have you seen my wife? Or perhaps yours, as Eowyn said she would be with her." Haldir was leaning again the frame of the door, looking around the halls lazily, and then back to the study once more.
"Arwen was going out to the gardens, although she--" He was cut off as a scream was heard out his slightly open window, depsite the thick snow that was now falling heavily. He had always hated stuffy rooms, after being raised in the open and breezy spaces of the Elves.
Faramir's eyes widened at the sound of it. "Eowyn!" He cried, spinning around to get out the door, half-knocking Haldir down, who was still blocking the doorway unintentionally, but soon enough jumped backwards, letting the man- and Aragorn out of the room, and soon followed.
The guards had heard it too, and were rushing out to the gardens as fast as they could. The site that greeted them was a horrible one. Dead Gondorians who had been trying to protect the city were everywhere, blood staining the white ground, and a fairly large band of the Southrons, two of which had bound a blonde and a dark-haired woman, who were now being tightly held onto, ceasing their struggles, their screams were muffled to a dim cry from the gags. They were in a kind of ring of browned bushes, surrounded by frost covered trees, and literally backed into a corner.
Aragorn felt such fear at what he saw, he simply began to run towards his wife, pushing away guards and increasing Southrons alike. With the fear, came a terrible rage that was building up in his heart, that they even dare try this.
Right behind him, was Haldir on his quick, graceful feet in the snow, his Elven long-knife (as he obviously didn't carry around his bow, and in all truth hadn't bothered bringing it on this 'harmless' trip from Lorien) unsheathed and trying to keep away the Southrons along with the guards coming to replace the ones that had been killed. Faramir had been carrying his own hunting knife, and Aragorn had enough sense in the moment of panic to grab his own hunting blade, that had very luckily been in his study at the time.
Seemingly all at once, the three stopped running through the crowd, realising they would killed before they ever reached the queen and shield maiden. And so, they did all they could do: slowly inch towards Arwen and Eowyn, fighting all the while. Quite a scene it was, in the relatively small gardens. A large amount of Southrons, who's spears glinted in the sunlight as they were whizzing over head, hitting several guards... and Haldir in the ankle.
The Elf let out a small cry of pain, taking only a moment to painfully pull the wretched thing out, before continuing on. This was not a time to give into minor wounds, even if they hurt terribly.
Finally, they, or at least Aragorn and Haldir, saw their chance. A small path had been cleared (although certainly not on purpose) to Arwen and Eowyn. Faramir was quite behind, having been backed into a corner by one of the Haradrim.
"Aragorn! This way!" Haldir called, getting the former Ranger's full attention, and with a quick nod, came running over, and the two friends made their way over, Haldir quite a bit ahead.
Arwen and her captor were closest, and quickly enough, he stabbed the man in the side, throwing him carelessly to the side.
"Are you alright?" Haldir received a quick nod while un-gagging her, and cutting her bonds. She had only seen a quick glance of her husband, until he disappeared into the crowd of Gondorians and Southrons.
"Estel--"
"Worry not. Just go!" And so she stumbled to her feet, and hid. Where she hid, Haldir could not see.
Meanwhile, Aragorn had reached Eowyn, who was a little ways away, attempting with all her will to get free. And, as quickly as Haldir had brought down Arwen's captor, Aragorn brought her's, and in a matter of moments the woman was free. Faramir had come running over, and the two embraced, and Aragorn took his leave-- to go find Arwen.
Haldir was running over to where Aragorn was, and without a word, they went running through the crowds, until a spear landed itself into Haldir's shoulders. It was too much. The Elf collapsed, Aragorn quick at his side to keep him from hitting the earth. Arrows were flying overhead now too, Gondor's arrows, and the Southron's alike.
"Haldir! Get up!" He got no answer, unless a groan of half-conscious pain was it. And a sigh quickly turned into a grimace on the king's face as an arrow hit him in the lower back. Still, the guards amidst the commotion did not notice.
Despite the pain, and odd numbness, Aragorn slung the Elf's arm over his shoulders, and walked slowly back to doorway that they had come out of, helping the nearly unconscious Haldir inside. Slowly, he himself was beginning to lose sense of all things around him, and barely felt as yet another one of their arrows struck him in the shoulder.
Their weapons were poisoned.
As finally Aragorn made it to the door, Haldir in tow, he fell to his knees, and darkness took him.
~~~
Muahaha... cliff-hanger! Sorry that council scene dragged on for quite some time, but I wanted to introduce the real problem Gondor (and it's people) faces. I can't believe how smoothly this chapter came! It would usually take me this long just to write about three pages! May writer's block never curse me again Anyway, I'll stop rambling and let you review. I love em' all. Good and *gulp* bad. Naw, even if I have one fan, it's makes me feel happy. ^^ But flamers, still beware. If you ever see a very angry looking Balrog, with a rubber chicken by her side, get ready, 'cause you're gonna get your ass kicked. =)
And yes, I am aware that 'stewardship' is probably not a word, nor a correct term. But let's pretend it is. =P
Oh, and can any of you tell me how to make some of the text italic, or bold? Call me ignorant, but it's failed everytime I've tried. I'd really appreciate it.
And thanks to all my reviewers!
Becca Stareyes - Thank you for the constructive criticism. =) And the reason it's marked AU, is because of some things that happen later on. *grins evilly* And also thank you for your offer... but alas, I have a proof-reader already.
Coolio02 - Will do ^^
nevfacwen - I agree. P.J. should be sued for that.
Gionareth - Thanks much =D
Mr. Kittlez - Couldn't have done it without you, Sissle. ^____^ *hugglez*
Taraisilwen - Yes, I do love Aragorn and Arwen. Who couldn't be moved by her choice? And thanks muchly (even if that isn't a word =P).
Disclaimer: See chapter one. And oh yes, some of the parts in this story are directly from the RP it's based off. That means, I didn't write all of it by myself. Give credit to Mr. Kittlez. She deserves it. ^^
Flames shall be used as bubble-bath for my pet Balrog, FiFi LaFlame
~~~
A Day Without Rain
Chapter Two
For three days Aragorn had managed to escape the duties he'd taken up as king, not counting the daily councils that he -did- attend. Perhaps everyone understood how much stress the man had taken in the past months, and a few days with an old friend may give him some well-earned rest.
Yet peace could not last forever.
The two were sitting outside, having an idle chat, discussing times gone by, like the time they met, when little Estel was but ten years old, and Haldir had left Rumil and Orophin to look over Lorien, while he accompanied Celeborn to Imladris for reasons the Elf-lord did not share. He had taken a liking to the boy, who he understood was Isildur's heir.
Of course, the little human looked up at the silver-haired Elves with awe and wonder, being so used to the dark-haired ones of his home. Aragorn remembered smiling shyly at the tall Elf, and Haldir made no hesitation to return the smile kindly. Who knew it would lead to such a close friendship?
Haldir's laugh brought them both out of thought.
"I had come when the twins were teaching you to use a bow." He remembered, grinning. Aragorn raised a brow, trying to think back on the time. It had been so long ago in his mortal mind, obviously not so for someone... however old Haldir was. Yet still the memories flooded his head.
"I... shot you in the foot." The king stated, chuckling. Of course, while his foster-brothers laughed hysterically, and Elrond was scolding them and trying to help Haldir, Estel had felt terrible, not ceasing his apologies until Haldir had left two weeks later.
"I remember." Haldir muttered, rubbing at his boot as if the wound was still there after eighty-some years. "And I also--"
"My lord!"
Both Aragorn and Haldir simutaneously looked to where a guard came running out.
"I am sorry to bother you, my lord, but a messenger has just arrived from South Ithilien. Urgent news regarding the Haradrim! He suggests to call a council immediately." He continued, out of breath from running all over, looking for the former Ranger. Aragorn sighed, although stood right away.
"Of course. Thank you." Aragorn replied, nodding for the guard to leave, before turning to Haldir, who was listening intently.
"I knew these past few days were going too well." The king murmured, walking back inside just as a few flakes of snow fell. November- and winter, was here.
~~~
And so an hour later, a council was assembled. Most of Gondor's important nobles were there, including a few named Hérfara, Gurfund, Namoron, Ellvalan, and Anoreth. Arwen was sitting next to her husband, speaking with Eowyn who sat beside the queen and Faramir. Aragorn had told Haldir to attend, and the Elf was sitting in a chair amongst the others, silent for the most part, and lastly, the messenger was there as well, sipping at some wine.
This sudden and myterious council had come as quite a surprise to all those that had been called to attend, even if they had some idea as to what it was regarding. The word 'Southrons' was commonly spoken the last few weeks.
Aragorn nodded to the messenger after everyone was there and settled, a strange sense of dread washing over him. What news could be deemed so ill and important, that it was necessary to hold a council on the spot?
"Please, I am quite eager to know what news you have brought in such a hurry."
The messenger nodded, taking another sip of his drink before speaking. "Lord," he began, "The Haradrim are reassembling in the South, and plan to attack Gondor, but for what reason, it is not plainly seen before me. The felling of the Dark Lord must have something to do with it, I have no doubt about. Their numbers are many! We came upon this news from well, our own eyes, as we travelled far south, and because of the Southron we captured. He told us some useful information, mostly that concerning his people's definate plans to attack the White City. I would have delivered him to you, my lord, to question, yet he attacked one of the scouts and we had no choice but to kill him" He reaccounted, face quite pale with worry for what was going on.
Aragorn sighed deeply, worry and anger etched deeply into his face. He knew Middle-earth could not stay peaceful forever, even with Sauron and his cursed ring vanquished. Of course, that didn't mean he wouldn't fight with every ounce of strength to regain that peace, and defend the city he had grown to love.
After no one said anything, and silence lingered in the room for many minutes, Haldir spoke up, obviously thinking the matter over as well.
"Then, battle seems to be the only way. Southrons are not easily convinced, and they speak tongues of which not many in the world know, if any alive indeed do." The Elf said, and no one doubted him; for he had lived far longer than any of them, including Arwen, and therefore had much more time to gather knowledge. Aragorn smiled, thankful for his best friend's advise.
"Haldir is right." He proclaimed after a moment, looking over each person with worried, grey eyes. The war barely over, and another begins. Not that he would ever dare compare the men of Harad to the dark lord and his servants (even if they were his servants), and it was highly unlikely the Southrons wanted power over all those in Middle-earth. Yet it was still a war, and war was not something anyone in their right mind would be pleased about.
"The Haradrim have resented Gondor for the longest time, not even those who do remember when it started have long left these shores. Even after we supposedly reached a peace agreement, it seems the hate towards this country was not stilled in their hearts." Aragorn frowned, closing his eyes a moment.
"And Haldir is also right in the sense that battle is the only way." His eyes wandered to the rather small window, and the white flakes falling gingerly from the sky. "I want no one to leave this city...or get in for that matter, unless we know they are friend and not some spy of our foe, wishing to do harm to Gondor or it's people." Aragorn looked to the captain of the guard.
"Please see to it that my word is set into place." The captain nodded, exiting the room shortly after. War, it seemed was upon them, and everyone understood. Eowyn was weeping silently at the news, the comforting arm of her husband wrapped around her shoulders to calm her. She had enough of war in the last one, for anyone who had faced up against the lord of the Nazgul would be. Arwen's eyes, too, seemed to be glistening with unshed tears, her smooth hand under Aragorn's calloused one.
The messenger stood at long last, giving a deep bow. "Begging your pardon, Lord Elessar, but I am very weary, and no more news of Harad do I bear. And I am not one of the council, so I will be taking to my rest, but this advice I will give: Make your choice quickly! In less than two weeks they will come, and already I think I was too late. Farewell!" And with that he exited. And all was quiet.
Haldir's voice broke the void of sorrowful silence.
"On my half, I can perhaps help with a small army of Elves from my own land, though it will be hasty and most out of order. And I may only do so by leave of my own lord. But alas, the choice remains with your king." With that, he fell silent again. Battle after battle, that was life, it seemed.
Aragorn shook his head instantly. "No. I will not bring the Elves into Gondor's affairs." He snapped, not meaning too. With a sigh, he offered his friend an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry, I know you were only trying to help. But in all truth, I ask no more of the Elves. They have done enough." Haldir only nodded, seemingly deep in thought, as all the others were.
"Yet we must make a decision before it is too late. They are a brutal people, will stop at nothing to reach their goal. And it seems, that their goal is destroy all that we've worked for, what so many people gave their life for. And I will not-- cannot let that happen." The former Ranger scowled. How dare they do this? Still following the wills of Sauron after all he did, using them for mere slaves to do his work. He couldn't grasp at that, didn't see how any people, even as wicked as they were, would want to live like that, believing someone so evil's teachings still, after he was defeated.
Haldir nodded. Aragorn was right. Faramir then spoke, "Long we have fought for Gondor's liberty, and we shall not lose it now. Not now! Not to anyone. My Lord, I counsel that we assemble all we can." Haldir nodded, "And Rohan is still an allie of Gondor, right? Unless my knowledge is indeed out-of- date." Faramir spoke again, "Yes, Rohan has remained true, and came at the battle of the Pelennor Fields, late, yes, but late is better than never."
"My thoughts as well... Rohan has ever been our friend. Faramir, you have been a resident here longer than I, so might you do me the favour of sending the fastest-riding messenger Gondor holds to Rohan?" The steward nodded, giving his friend and king a small smile.
"Of course. I know exactly whom to send." And so Faramir stood and left the room with Eowyn, quite glad to be out of the ominous atmosphere of that room.
After more silence, a seemingly common custom that was developing, Aragorn turned his head to Haldir.
"I surely hope Lorien may fair without you in these times of danger, for I would fear greatly for your life. I doubt the rodes are safe." He said with a small sigh. The Elf thought for a moment, before shaking his head.
"I shall stay. There's no use going back, sitting in a tree all day, while all of you strive for your country. But how shall I tell Celeborn? Any messengers will... Not be accepted... If you take... My meaning." The Warden raised a brow, knowing any outsiders, be them friend or foe, would likely be shot before they tried to take a step into Lorien. And it was likely no messenger would go to the mysterious woodland anyway, for it seemed to Men that no one left there unchanged.
Yet still, the promise he had made to his Lord and Lady before he set out came back to him. If any danger was to arise, he was to come back immediately with no delay, under any circumstances. Yet Celeborn and Galadriel would surely understand, if his life was in danger.
"I am sure he shall understand, my friend, and will figure it out himself. Do not trouble yourself with such thoughts." Yet even with Aragorn's words, Haldir still could not help but worry.
If the Haradrim were to move up to Lorien, then Celeborn would have no warning, and no one to lead them into battle, as his brothers has been killed in a previous battle, something that still etched a deep a burning pain into his heart. And if that were to happen, Lorien would indeed be doomed under the cruel and scathed hand of the Haradrim. It would fall and its people would fall with it. And Haldir would have broken the oath he made so long ago when first becoming the guardian of the Golden Wood.
His thoughts were broken when he realised Aragorn had been speaking, dismissing the council for now while everyone cleared their minds, and everyone was standing. Haldir did as well, the tallest one there, and as serious as everything was, he couldn't help but smirk lightly at the way the Gondorians looked at him like some demon of Morgoth, or some ridiculous thing. Yet Lorien was often viewed as some evil place, the Lady there a great witch, with even greater powers and curses. He could not even imagine Galadriel ever being thought of in such a way.
And so council let out, and the members went their seperate ways to do exactly what Aragorn had said: Think.
The king himself was sitting in his study, with a grave expression upon his face. Such terrible things had sudden befallen, when the days when Haldir was visiting should've been happy, and a time to remember times in the past. Instead, now Haldir was stuck in Minas Tirith, instead of back at his home, defending it, and they had barely two weeks to declare war on the Haradrim. What else was there to do? They obviously had no regard for offers of peace and such. They just still seemed to be hell-bent on destroying Gondor.
Haldir was wandering the halls somewhat, realising what a mistake it was to simply rush here, so shortly after the war. Not all of Sauron's servants were destroyed, for how could anyone destroy whole races of Southrons, Easterlings and Orcs? The silver-haired Warden shook his head, his light footing making not a sound on the polished floors. So unlike home. Everything was so... the same. In the wood, things changed every day. And there was always the Elves singing, and the wind swaying through the mightly trees that held their flets. Yes, Haldir loved Lothlorien, and always would, even when he passed into the West...
"I don't mean to bother you--" Faramir thought what Aragorn had said the Elf's name was, as he passed him in the halls. "Master Haldir, but have you seen my wife, Eowyn, anywhere? She disappeared when she heard the council was out, saying she wanted to go find the Lady Awen." Haldir shrugged, shaking his head slowly.
"Nay, I haven't. But you might ask Aragorn. He'll most likely know where Eowyn is, if she's indeed with the queen." Faramir nodded and headed towards Aragorn's study, the Elf following, out of the sheer fact there was nothing more to do.
Aragorn looked up from a book when the two entered, raising a brow. He really just wanted to be alone, even if it left one alone to think.
Faramir was silent for a moment. His friend really did looked terribly stressed. He could barely imagine what would've happened if Aragorn had never claimed the throne, and Faramir would be the lord of the city, responsible for protecting the lives threatened by the Southrons. Of course, he was a strong leader in his own right, yet Boromir had always been the one trained for stewardship, not him. He didn't envy Aragorn, that was for sure.
"I don't mean to disturb you, but have you seen my wife? Or perhaps yours, as Eowyn said she would be with her." Haldir was leaning again the frame of the door, looking around the halls lazily, and then back to the study once more.
"Arwen was going out to the gardens, although she--" He was cut off as a scream was heard out his slightly open window, depsite the thick snow that was now falling heavily. He had always hated stuffy rooms, after being raised in the open and breezy spaces of the Elves.
Faramir's eyes widened at the sound of it. "Eowyn!" He cried, spinning around to get out the door, half-knocking Haldir down, who was still blocking the doorway unintentionally, but soon enough jumped backwards, letting the man- and Aragorn out of the room, and soon followed.
The guards had heard it too, and were rushing out to the gardens as fast as they could. The site that greeted them was a horrible one. Dead Gondorians who had been trying to protect the city were everywhere, blood staining the white ground, and a fairly large band of the Southrons, two of which had bound a blonde and a dark-haired woman, who were now being tightly held onto, ceasing their struggles, their screams were muffled to a dim cry from the gags. They were in a kind of ring of browned bushes, surrounded by frost covered trees, and literally backed into a corner.
Aragorn felt such fear at what he saw, he simply began to run towards his wife, pushing away guards and increasing Southrons alike. With the fear, came a terrible rage that was building up in his heart, that they even dare try this.
Right behind him, was Haldir on his quick, graceful feet in the snow, his Elven long-knife (as he obviously didn't carry around his bow, and in all truth hadn't bothered bringing it on this 'harmless' trip from Lorien) unsheathed and trying to keep away the Southrons along with the guards coming to replace the ones that had been killed. Faramir had been carrying his own hunting knife, and Aragorn had enough sense in the moment of panic to grab his own hunting blade, that had very luckily been in his study at the time.
Seemingly all at once, the three stopped running through the crowd, realising they would killed before they ever reached the queen and shield maiden. And so, they did all they could do: slowly inch towards Arwen and Eowyn, fighting all the while. Quite a scene it was, in the relatively small gardens. A large amount of Southrons, who's spears glinted in the sunlight as they were whizzing over head, hitting several guards... and Haldir in the ankle.
The Elf let out a small cry of pain, taking only a moment to painfully pull the wretched thing out, before continuing on. This was not a time to give into minor wounds, even if they hurt terribly.
Finally, they, or at least Aragorn and Haldir, saw their chance. A small path had been cleared (although certainly not on purpose) to Arwen and Eowyn. Faramir was quite behind, having been backed into a corner by one of the Haradrim.
"Aragorn! This way!" Haldir called, getting the former Ranger's full attention, and with a quick nod, came running over, and the two friends made their way over, Haldir quite a bit ahead.
Arwen and her captor were closest, and quickly enough, he stabbed the man in the side, throwing him carelessly to the side.
"Are you alright?" Haldir received a quick nod while un-gagging her, and cutting her bonds. She had only seen a quick glance of her husband, until he disappeared into the crowd of Gondorians and Southrons.
"Estel--"
"Worry not. Just go!" And so she stumbled to her feet, and hid. Where she hid, Haldir could not see.
Meanwhile, Aragorn had reached Eowyn, who was a little ways away, attempting with all her will to get free. And, as quickly as Haldir had brought down Arwen's captor, Aragorn brought her's, and in a matter of moments the woman was free. Faramir had come running over, and the two embraced, and Aragorn took his leave-- to go find Arwen.
Haldir was running over to where Aragorn was, and without a word, they went running through the crowds, until a spear landed itself into Haldir's shoulders. It was too much. The Elf collapsed, Aragorn quick at his side to keep him from hitting the earth. Arrows were flying overhead now too, Gondor's arrows, and the Southron's alike.
"Haldir! Get up!" He got no answer, unless a groan of half-conscious pain was it. And a sigh quickly turned into a grimace on the king's face as an arrow hit him in the lower back. Still, the guards amidst the commotion did not notice.
Despite the pain, and odd numbness, Aragorn slung the Elf's arm over his shoulders, and walked slowly back to doorway that they had come out of, helping the nearly unconscious Haldir inside. Slowly, he himself was beginning to lose sense of all things around him, and barely felt as yet another one of their arrows struck him in the shoulder.
Their weapons were poisoned.
As finally Aragorn made it to the door, Haldir in tow, he fell to his knees, and darkness took him.
~~~
Muahaha... cliff-hanger! Sorry that council scene dragged on for quite some time, but I wanted to introduce the real problem Gondor (and it's people) faces. I can't believe how smoothly this chapter came! It would usually take me this long just to write about three pages! May writer's block never curse me again Anyway, I'll stop rambling and let you review. I love em' all. Good and *gulp* bad. Naw, even if I have one fan, it's makes me feel happy. ^^ But flamers, still beware. If you ever see a very angry looking Balrog, with a rubber chicken by her side, get ready, 'cause you're gonna get your ass kicked. =)
And yes, I am aware that 'stewardship' is probably not a word, nor a correct term. But let's pretend it is. =P
Oh, and can any of you tell me how to make some of the text italic, or bold? Call me ignorant, but it's failed everytime I've tried. I'd really appreciate it.