THE DAYSTAR
BY: GABRIELLA THE FAIR
Chapter 29
WINGFOOT AND DAYSPRING
"What was she like, how would you explain her?" With a faraway smile, he looked up to the sky and answered, "She was the Daystar, lighting up the day during our darkest hour, warming the earth with her love." "She is as clear as the moon, as fair as the sun, and as glorious as an army under one banner"
To most she was a loving friend, her fairness lighting up the world, no matter what the weather. To some a companion, and one a lover and dream. Yet, many feared her dignity in her footsteps, power in her stride, and authority in her eyes. This is her story.
Thanx again for the border Elven girl!
*Legolas/Raquel* *Legolas/Raquel* *Legolas/Raquel* *Legolas/Raquel* *Legolas/Raquel* *Legolas/Raquel*
They marched on until dusk, halting for a break. They ate the lembas of Lorien on their journey, it's taste giving them the new strength for the long road. Even during this, Raquel felt the strange pain move throughout her. Sometimes, she would feel dazed or lost, not knowing exactly where she was, but only for seconds. They traveled all that day in a quiet peace, seeing nor hearing any Orc army ahead. In this peace they lost their sense of hope again. They slept that night, again Aragorn awoke to find Raquel and Legolas already awake, if they did even sleep.
"Strange things await us in this forest, awake!" Legolas said, "For good or ill we must continue."
They came to a long strip of land, the earth dry and cracked under their feet.
"It is as I feared." Aragorn said, "They rested here, but that was some twelve hours ago."
"Well, what about the forest, can we see it if we climb the hills?" Gimli asked.
"It would do us no good." Raquel said, speaking for the first time.
"Then let us go on, so my weary legs may forget the miles we have traveled." Gimli said. The night grew cold, and none rested easily. Raquel woke often, if she even slept, from the burning pain that moved throughout her. Legolas stood above her, singing softly in his own tongue, comforting her back in to her daze. As dawn approached he awoke them, noticing Raquel's unsteadiness on her feet.
From their spot, they could see the outline of the green forest. The Entwash flowed out of it, glistening in the morning sun.
"Aragorn."
Aragorn turned to find Legolas standing behind him, supporting Raquel. She looked very sick, hardly even being able to hold herself up.
"Aragorn." she said, looking at him painfully.
"What is wrong with her?" Aragorn rushed to her, "How can she be ill?"
"She is not ill, Aragorn!" Legolas said, "You know she cannot get ill."
"Then what is it?" Aragorn took her and set her on the ground.
"Look." Legolas showed him her wound on her shoulder. She let out a gasp of pain as Aragorn bent over it.
"It was poisoned." Aragorn said, "I should have known. But, why did you not tell me Raquel?" he glared at Legolas, "Why did you not tell me?"
"She would not let me, though she did not tell me for certain, I am guessing she just thought it was hurting from the wound itself, she did not comprehend it to be poisoned." Legolas bent down and sighed, "If I knew, I would have told you."
"I am sitting right here." she said, rather irritated when they talked like she couldn't hear them. "I should have told you Aragorn." she said more softly.
"Well, I am sure there is little I could have done. Go, get her pack for me" Legolas got her pack and handed it to him. Aragorn went through it and found her pouch.
"Here," he pulled out some leaves, "Here are the leaves she found in Lorien." he took some in his mouth and chewed it, putting it on her wound. She flinched at the pain, closing her eyes, yet relaxed after a few seconds. Legolas looked up.
"Aragorn, look!" he shaded his eyes with his hand and pointed with the other one.
"What is it?" Aragorn looked in the direction that he pointed in, Raquel propped herself up to look.
He then noticed what Legolas was talking about. On the field below them, horsemen raced on the ground. The sun glistened on their spear-heads. Gimli came and joined them.
"There are many of them, and they are coming to us at a great speed!" Aragorn said.
"One-hundred and five to be exact." Legolas said, Raquel nodded, though her count may have been off because of the poison. She felt sleepy.
"Their leader is very tall, and their hair is pale." Legolas said, going into more detail as he watched.
Aragorn smiled at the two Elves, "Keen are the eyes of the Elves"
"No, they are just about five leagues away!" The Elf said.
"Well, I don't care how far, we cannot hide in this flat land. What shall we do, wait, or go on?" Gimli asked, looking to Aragorn.
"We will wait and see what news they bring us, they may even tell us of our enemies."
"Or show us how to use a spear." Gimli muttered.
"There are three empty horses, but I do not see any hobbits." Legolas continued to look at the men below them.
"Well, let us go anyway, I will not promise good news though." Aragorn led them down the hill a bit. They sat there huddled together, Raquel still felt sick. She shivered and felt weak. There was silence until Gimli spoke, though Raquel paid no attention. She watched steadily as the men approached, their cries getting louder and louder. Their galloping shook the earth, and soon the first appeared.
They rode in pairs, a long line of horses and men. They're hair and helms shone in the morning light. They were tall and long limbed, fell and fair to look upon. They're horses to were of great starture, strong and clean. They galloped by quickly, no taking any notice of the little ban of people sitting in the grass and watching them. At least, not until Aragorn stood up and spoke.
"What news from the North, Riders of Rohan?"
With one shout, they all turned their horses and circled around the little ban of companions, Aragorn still standing. The others sat, watching the horselords in amazement. Without call or word, the men stopped, all spears arranged at the throats of the pursuers. Raquel glared up at the men that held the spears inches from her throat. They dropped back a little, but not by much.
"Who are you and what is your errand in this land?" The leader spoke, stepping toward them.
"I am called Strider. We hunt Orc." Aragorn stared up at the man with no emotion in his face.
The man dismounted, giving his spear to a man beside him and drawing a sword. He looked Aragorn over with a sharp eye, though he did not hide his wonder. Raquel stirred, moving her hand slowly to Sunstone, though, the man pushed his spear closer to her throat. Legolas looked at her and shook his head slightly, though she ignored him.
"At first, even I thought you were Orcs, though I see that I guessed wrong. Obviously, you know little of the Orcs if you go hunting them like this." he looked at Aragorn with a mocking glint in his eye. "There were many of them, well armed. If you had gone any further you would have yourself been the prey." he moved his sword to Aragorn's chin. "But there is something strange about you, Strider. How did we not see you as we rode by? Strange is your raiment. Are you Elvish?"
Aragorn turned and pointed to the others, "No, there are only two Elves with us. But, we did pass through Lothlórien, and were gifted with the kindness of the Ladies."
"So there really is a Lady of the Wood." he gave a little chuckle, "I hear little escape her wrath, as the old tales tell." Raquel bristled at this. "Though, you say, 'Ladies' I have only heard of one. But, you say you have her favour, are you to sorcerers?" he turned coldly and looked upon the others. "Why do you not speak?!"
Raquel jumped up, throwing aside the spear. She drew out Sunstone, "How dare you say such things! Take them back, or you shall regret it." she said coldly, staring straight into the mans face. His men laughed.
"A women trying to use a sword! What have these days come to?" They laughed and mocked, but Raquel did not move.
"Raquel!" Legolas took her shoulder and pulled her back, she breathed heavily.
"What are you doing?" he asked her, pulling her closer to him, though she did not fight him, only stared at the man. Gimli then rose.
"She speaks truly. Give me your name, and then I will give you mine." he planted his feet apart and put his hand.
"Fine, I am Éomer Son of Éomund and am called Third Marshal of Riddermark"
"Then, am Éomer Son of Éomund, Third Marshal of Riddermark, let me, Gimli the Dwarf, teach you in a lesson of courtesy to Ladies beyond your wildest dreams. You speak evil which is fair beyond the reach of your thought, only little wit can save you." he drew out his axe halfway.
Éomer scowled, "I would kill you for saying that, though there is a Lady in our presence, sorceress or not."
"He stands not alone." He raised his bow with the speed of a skilled archer. Raquel stood clutching Legolas, her weary legs about to give way "You would die before your stroke fell." he stared into the man's face.
Éomer raised his sword, Raquel hid her head in Legolas' arm, scared of what might happen next. Aragorn sprang between them.
"Please, stop, this does not need to involve violence!" (AN- Cat, we can solve this problem without violence!) Aragorn said, looking to each. "Legolas, put your bow down." he whispered. The Elf dropped the bow slowly, keeping his eyes on Éomer.
"So you are Legolas, of Mirkwood I believe." Éomer made no sign of good faith, "And who might she be?" he looked at Raquel, who glared at him and turned away, half burying her face.
Aragorn felt a little pride surge through him,
"She is Gilwen Menelanna, youngest daughter of Elrond the Lord of Imladris. She is the second Lady of Lothlórien, though many call her Raquel." Raquel lifted her head slightly at the sound of her real name, surprised at the tone Aragorn used as the words rolled off his tongue.
Éomer looked at her, beholding a dirty Elven women, her clothes were in some places torn, her hands and arms cut and muddy. But he looked into her face, her eyes. A million emotions ran through him as he stared into her eyes. Out of everything else a beauty seemed to strike him, a sense of pity overwhelmed him. He looked away, her pride and strength making him feel small and foolish.
"Her.she's the other Lady?" he whispered, his voice sounding disbelief. A mummer went through his men. One of the men spit on her, she closed her eyes trying to hide her fury. The only thing that saved that mans neck was her focus and self-control, over her and the others. Gimli shifted his eyes flaming to the man, Legolas stirred, moving one of his hands to his knife.
"What is wrong with her?" he asked.
"She got shot by a poisonous arrow while defending one of our companions." Legolas said.
"Here, take this" Éomer handed Aragorn a leaf, "It should slow the poison. It is all I have at the moment, if you came to the city, then we could do more there."
"No, we shall not go, we are searching for some of our other companions, they are small, we call them Hobbits, though you may know them as halfings." he went on, though Raquel turned her attention to the men. Their horses, something was out there.
"Artemis?" Raquel said, though she shook her head,
"It cannot be" she thought, "It is too far away from home and how would she get here? But one thing is certain, a horse just like her is near by. So like her it makes me sick." she searched the crowd trying to find the match.
"Do you have any spare horses for us to use then?" Aragorn asked.
"Yes, we have three spare horses." Éomer said, "But we do not hand them out willingly, and as I said before there is something strange about you, Strider is not a fitting name. Who are you?"
"I am Aragorn, Son of Arathorn," he threw back his cloak to reveal his sword. "I am the heir of Isildur Elendil's son of Gondor. Will you aid me or thwart me? Choose quickly!"
Éomer cast his proud eyes on the ground for a few seconds, realizing all that surronded him. First, the Prince of Mirkwood, then this Lady that knows how to use a sword, and now a man that claims to be the King of Gondor!
"What are you doing here, all of you! As I said before, there is something strange about you, Aragorn" he looked to the Lady and then to Aragorn.
"It is not by choice that we come here, but duty and mercy has driven us thus far." Aragorn spoke for everyone else, "Tell your Lord Théoden this, there is no way to escape war. Saruman's power is growing, his armies are multiplying as we speak. Nobody in these tragic days have any land to call their own, except the Dark Lord himself. Either he aids in the fight against him or he may fall to the power of Sauron. Take that message to him, Éomer son of Éomund." his men began to whisper again.
"But now, I ask again for your aid, or at least tidings, you met with the orc host, what news can you bring us?" Aragorn asked, Raquel looked at him with hopeful eyes.
"You need not go any further, we killed and burned them all."
"And our companions?"
"There was nothing but filthy orc."
"Did you search the slain?!" Raquel asked, her desperate eyes stirred his heart, "You must have found something!"
"No, I am sorry Lady, but we did not."
"We must leave Lord, time is pressing!" a man strode forward, the one who had spit on Raquel. He glared at her, though she made no gesture to return it, her face emotionless as she looked to him.
"Peace, Éothain! Leave me here with them for awhile. Make ready to ride to the Entwade." Éomer said, not turning to him.
Éothain muttered under his breath as he shouted out commands to all of his men, they turned their horses to leave when Raquel gave a shout.
"Artemis!" in all the horses she saw nothing, only the feeling that she was there drove her to say that.
"Raquel, what are you talking about?" Aragorn said, turning to her, "Artemis is nowhere close to here, she is at Rivendell."
"No, Estel, she is here, I know it!" Raquel searched the moving horses. Nothing happened.
"Lady we have only but three spare horses, and all of them are ours." Éomer said, "If this Artemis is your horse, she will not be found with us, only the ones we breed are found in this country." he turned back to Aragorn and they started to talk.
"Raquel, nothing is here." Legolas said, "You are not well, it is the sickness that tricks your mind."
"Are you saying that I do not speak the truth?" Raquel took a step away from him, though she lost part of her balance.
He sighed, "Please, Raquel, I know how much you love to fight, but now is not the time. Later would be better." he looked at her wearily, but grabbed hold of her as she sank to the ground, her eyes closing from exhaustion.
"She is here, Legolas, I know it." she said fatigued as he held her up.
"Yes, Raquel, yes she is. Whatever you say." Legolas said, shaking off his sleep.
"Boromir is dead?!" the man said, "You bring evil tidings!"
"Yes, it was Raquel who protected him in his last breaths, she spared him to the death." Aragorn said, motioning to the Elf, "That is how she got her wound. it is now the fourth day since he was slain. He was killed under the shadow of Tol Brandir."
"And you came this far on foot?" Éomer asked, his brows slightly lifted.
"As you see us." Aragorn said.
"Petty is the name Strider. You shall be Wingfoot now, Aragorn." he turned to Raquel, "And you Lady, shall be Dayspring. Though, I hate to take away such a pretty name, Raquel, it is as though I have heard it before." Éomer looked at her thoughtfully.
"Maybe you have, you just never knew who it belonged to. I think I know who might have spoken of it, though his name I will not utter, for my grief of his death still hinders me." she spoke quietly, not lifting her head, but looking over her brow.
He caught one last glance at Raquel before turning to Aragorn, "You still do not tell me your whole tale."
"Do you pay tribute to Sauron?" Aragorn asked venomously.
"I pay tribute to no one but my Lord Théoden."
Aragorn sighed, "Can you at least lend us some horses, so we may quicken our way to find our friends?"
Éomer hesitated before answering, "Yes I can, but must promise me you will return them, and then come to the city, she needs proper care." he motioned to Raquel, "Plus, my Lord will wish to speak with you." Éomer then turned and gave orders to his men to bring the spare horses. Raquel tensed up, her eyes flashing as the horses appeared.
"How dare you?!" Raquel said, the rage shaking her body, "That is my horse, you took her!" she motioned to a horse in the lineup.
Éomer looked at her obviously confused, "What are you saying, Lady? This is Akris, and she is untamable, not even one of my men may get near her."
Raquel's hands moved swiftly to her sword, "Her name is Thalionfëa!"
"Thalionfëa, what does that mean, pray tell? And, Lady Dayspring, please, you could not tame this horse, not even the finest horsemaster in our land can."
"That is why I named her Thalionfëa, it means dauntless spirit."
"Then you are her master."
"No, she has no master, she serves me only out of her will. I do not wish to hold her in captivity, she deserves better than that."
"This is your horse then." Éomer said, "But she is bred just as a Rohan horse."
"She is not from Rohan!" Raquel said, "She is from Rivendell, I bred and raised her." she stopped and let out a shrill whistle, the horse came to her side.
Éomer frowned, he doubted she could ride this horse. When they had found the horse, they brought it back and fed and groomed her, though she let no one ride her. If one of his men could not ride her, then neither could this Lady, no matter how skilled a swordsman.
"Fine, go ahead, ride her. Show me that you do know how to ride." Éomer looked at her doubtingly. He folded his arms across his chest defiantly.
Raquel hesitated, not sure if she could move her aching body to mount. She looked over to Artemis, who nudged Raquel softly with her nose. She moved to the horse's side. Artemis swished her tail, noticing the Elf's shaking body. She put her foot in the stirrup, closing her eyes. Legolas moved toward her, but felt a hand stop him.
"No, she must do this alone." Aragorn said, focusing on her, "He is testing her, she must prove herself."
They watched as Raquel moved to mount, but Artemis moved.
"Artemis, please stop it." Raquel lost part of her balance, but grabbed Artemis' mane. The horse dropped it's head, Raquel let go of her. It moved forward, lowering itself to the ground.
"Artemis?" Raquel said, half in wonder.
Artemis stopped, halfway to the ground. She let out a soft neigh, shaking her head.
"Mount Raquel." Aragorn said, "She is trying to make it easier for you to mount."
Raquel took the saddle horn and put her foot in the stirrup, her mouth still slightly open in wonder, and swung her leg around, mounting the horse. Artemis raised herself to full stature, throwing her head back.
Raquel leaned forward, "Thank you." she whispered.
Aragorn looked to Éomer, "Now, will you let us mount our own horses?"
"Yes, of course," he never took his eyes off the horse and Elf as they went through some paces. "Éothain, get the other horses!"
The man walked a stallion over to Aragorn and handed the reins to him, bowing, "Here you are my Lord."
He then went back to the other horse and got it, handing the reins to Legolas without bowing, instead, he sneered.
"Here is your horse, my Prince. His name is Arod."
Legolas took them and politely bowed, though he did not do it very low.
"If it interests you in anyway, would you take the saddle off this horse?" Legolas asked.
The man gave a grunt and worked until everything was undone. Legolas jumped up lightly onto the horse's back. He rode the horse, speaking only words to move it in any way he pleased. The men and Dwarf were amazed. Even Raquel showed interest.
"There is no horse for my friend Gimli the Dwarf" Aragorn said, already mounted.
"And there need not be, for I will not mount those beasts." Gimli said, looking up to his companions.
"But if you do not ride, you will be a burden." Raquel said.
"Then he shall ride with me." Legolas said, "You may ride behind me."
With a nod from Gimli, they lifted him up behind the Elf. He clung to Legolas, getting a slight laugh from Raquel.
"Loosen up Gimli, it will not throw you off." Raquel said.
"How can you be so sure?" Gimli asked shakily.
"Are you questioning an Elf's ability to tame a beast?" she brows and glanced at Legolas, "I can assume he knows what he is doing." She winked at Gimli before turning Artemis and leaving.
"You will come to the city when you are done then?" Éomer asked of Aragorn.
"Yes, we will come." Aragorn said.
"Fine, then, whatever hope may be left, I wish you the best of luck in finding your friends." he mounted and assembled his men with one shout.
"Good-bye, for now!" he said, and with a wave, they left, starting toward the forest.
~!@#~!@#~!@#$%^&$%^&*()_*()_*~!@#~!@#~!@#$%^&$%^&*()_*()_*~!@#~!@#~!@#$%^&$% ^&*()_*()_*
So, that was long! Very long! (On word it says about 9 pages) Sorry it took so long to get to you guys, as I said before, I have had school, a hurt wrist, and a lot to write! oh yea, for anyone that cares, my wrist might be broken, I'm going in for more x-rays in a week. My doctor said my first x- ray looked 'unsual' *gulp*. So, for right now I'm in a splint. Anywhos, hope you like, more to come soon I hope. Have a great day everyone.
*~*~*Gabi*~*~*
Ps- Before you read more, I've had this annoying thing happen to me recently. I watch lotr like everyday, (I own it, but I already mentioned that awhile ago) and every time a scene that I've written, I expect to see Raquel there. Ummm. I know that sounds lame, but does anyone have any advice? I can't get it to stop! Help! Anyways, sorry to bug you, go ahead, read on.
dani- Umm.thanx and thanx! I guess, what else should I say? Keep reading, it only gets better! (I hope)
too lazy to login- Whoever you are, thanx, and be scared, I scare a lot of people. *Evil cackle* remember, to say evil, you must pronounce it, e-vile. ^_^
mermaid- Thanx, (ok, I know its all I keep saying, but what else should I say? I mean, I don't wanna sound stuck up) Yea, I'm realizing how fit and real Raquel has become. *refer to my PS* again, thanx for reviewing, I hope you have a great day, asta luego!
Leigha- Yea, my wrist will feel my wrath someday *wrist starts to hurt really bad*, but for right now, I must leave it alone. Stinks that no ones updated, I know what you mean. So, thanx for the review, I hope you have a great day!
KittyKat Blanc- thanx, I will keep goin, and I know lotr comes out Dec. 18, I've been countin down the days! thanx for reviewing, hope u read on!
Elena- thanx, (grrr! I need a new word!) I hope my wrist gets better soon too, the only good thing out of it is I get to get out of gym (we're playing these really boring games). Again, as much as I hate to use the word, thanx, I hope u enjoyed this chap! PS- I used ur border, thanx a bunch! Ü
Isabella- Last but not least, thanx for the two reviews, you're the best! *all the other reviewers start to growl* ummm. and so is everyone else! *other reviewers smile* anywhos, thanx for the review, hope you read more! torment and despair, that's me! ;)
Signed,
*~*~*Gabi, your humble writing servant*~*~*
"What was she like, how would you explain her?" With a faraway smile, he looked up to the sky and answered, "She was the Daystar, lighting up the day during our darkest hour, warming the earth with her love." "She is as clear as the moon, as fair as the sun, and as glorious as an army under one banner"
To most she was a loving friend, her fairness lighting up the world, no matter what the weather. To some a companion, and one a lover and dream. Yet, many feared her dignity in her footsteps, power in her stride, and authority in her eyes. This is her story.
Thanx again for the border Elven girl!
*Legolas/Raquel* *Legolas/Raquel* *Legolas/Raquel* *Legolas/Raquel* *Legolas/Raquel* *Legolas/Raquel*
They marched on until dusk, halting for a break. They ate the lembas of Lorien on their journey, it's taste giving them the new strength for the long road. Even during this, Raquel felt the strange pain move throughout her. Sometimes, she would feel dazed or lost, not knowing exactly where she was, but only for seconds. They traveled all that day in a quiet peace, seeing nor hearing any Orc army ahead. In this peace they lost their sense of hope again. They slept that night, again Aragorn awoke to find Raquel and Legolas already awake, if they did even sleep.
"Strange things await us in this forest, awake!" Legolas said, "For good or ill we must continue."
They came to a long strip of land, the earth dry and cracked under their feet.
"It is as I feared." Aragorn said, "They rested here, but that was some twelve hours ago."
"Well, what about the forest, can we see it if we climb the hills?" Gimli asked.
"It would do us no good." Raquel said, speaking for the first time.
"Then let us go on, so my weary legs may forget the miles we have traveled." Gimli said. The night grew cold, and none rested easily. Raquel woke often, if she even slept, from the burning pain that moved throughout her. Legolas stood above her, singing softly in his own tongue, comforting her back in to her daze. As dawn approached he awoke them, noticing Raquel's unsteadiness on her feet.
From their spot, they could see the outline of the green forest. The Entwash flowed out of it, glistening in the morning sun.
"Aragorn."
Aragorn turned to find Legolas standing behind him, supporting Raquel. She looked very sick, hardly even being able to hold herself up.
"Aragorn." she said, looking at him painfully.
"What is wrong with her?" Aragorn rushed to her, "How can she be ill?"
"She is not ill, Aragorn!" Legolas said, "You know she cannot get ill."
"Then what is it?" Aragorn took her and set her on the ground.
"Look." Legolas showed him her wound on her shoulder. She let out a gasp of pain as Aragorn bent over it.
"It was poisoned." Aragorn said, "I should have known. But, why did you not tell me Raquel?" he glared at Legolas, "Why did you not tell me?"
"She would not let me, though she did not tell me for certain, I am guessing she just thought it was hurting from the wound itself, she did not comprehend it to be poisoned." Legolas bent down and sighed, "If I knew, I would have told you."
"I am sitting right here." she said, rather irritated when they talked like she couldn't hear them. "I should have told you Aragorn." she said more softly.
"Well, I am sure there is little I could have done. Go, get her pack for me" Legolas got her pack and handed it to him. Aragorn went through it and found her pouch.
"Here," he pulled out some leaves, "Here are the leaves she found in Lorien." he took some in his mouth and chewed it, putting it on her wound. She flinched at the pain, closing her eyes, yet relaxed after a few seconds. Legolas looked up.
"Aragorn, look!" he shaded his eyes with his hand and pointed with the other one.
"What is it?" Aragorn looked in the direction that he pointed in, Raquel propped herself up to look.
He then noticed what Legolas was talking about. On the field below them, horsemen raced on the ground. The sun glistened on their spear-heads. Gimli came and joined them.
"There are many of them, and they are coming to us at a great speed!" Aragorn said.
"One-hundred and five to be exact." Legolas said, Raquel nodded, though her count may have been off because of the poison. She felt sleepy.
"Their leader is very tall, and their hair is pale." Legolas said, going into more detail as he watched.
Aragorn smiled at the two Elves, "Keen are the eyes of the Elves"
"No, they are just about five leagues away!" The Elf said.
"Well, I don't care how far, we cannot hide in this flat land. What shall we do, wait, or go on?" Gimli asked, looking to Aragorn.
"We will wait and see what news they bring us, they may even tell us of our enemies."
"Or show us how to use a spear." Gimli muttered.
"There are three empty horses, but I do not see any hobbits." Legolas continued to look at the men below them.
"Well, let us go anyway, I will not promise good news though." Aragorn led them down the hill a bit. They sat there huddled together, Raquel still felt sick. She shivered and felt weak. There was silence until Gimli spoke, though Raquel paid no attention. She watched steadily as the men approached, their cries getting louder and louder. Their galloping shook the earth, and soon the first appeared.
They rode in pairs, a long line of horses and men. They're hair and helms shone in the morning light. They were tall and long limbed, fell and fair to look upon. They're horses to were of great starture, strong and clean. They galloped by quickly, no taking any notice of the little ban of people sitting in the grass and watching them. At least, not until Aragorn stood up and spoke.
"What news from the North, Riders of Rohan?"
With one shout, they all turned their horses and circled around the little ban of companions, Aragorn still standing. The others sat, watching the horselords in amazement. Without call or word, the men stopped, all spears arranged at the throats of the pursuers. Raquel glared up at the men that held the spears inches from her throat. They dropped back a little, but not by much.
"Who are you and what is your errand in this land?" The leader spoke, stepping toward them.
"I am called Strider. We hunt Orc." Aragorn stared up at the man with no emotion in his face.
The man dismounted, giving his spear to a man beside him and drawing a sword. He looked Aragorn over with a sharp eye, though he did not hide his wonder. Raquel stirred, moving her hand slowly to Sunstone, though, the man pushed his spear closer to her throat. Legolas looked at her and shook his head slightly, though she ignored him.
"At first, even I thought you were Orcs, though I see that I guessed wrong. Obviously, you know little of the Orcs if you go hunting them like this." he looked at Aragorn with a mocking glint in his eye. "There were many of them, well armed. If you had gone any further you would have yourself been the prey." he moved his sword to Aragorn's chin. "But there is something strange about you, Strider. How did we not see you as we rode by? Strange is your raiment. Are you Elvish?"
Aragorn turned and pointed to the others, "No, there are only two Elves with us. But, we did pass through Lothlórien, and were gifted with the kindness of the Ladies."
"So there really is a Lady of the Wood." he gave a little chuckle, "I hear little escape her wrath, as the old tales tell." Raquel bristled at this. "Though, you say, 'Ladies' I have only heard of one. But, you say you have her favour, are you to sorcerers?" he turned coldly and looked upon the others. "Why do you not speak?!"
Raquel jumped up, throwing aside the spear. She drew out Sunstone, "How dare you say such things! Take them back, or you shall regret it." she said coldly, staring straight into the mans face. His men laughed.
"A women trying to use a sword! What have these days come to?" They laughed and mocked, but Raquel did not move.
"Raquel!" Legolas took her shoulder and pulled her back, she breathed heavily.
"What are you doing?" he asked her, pulling her closer to him, though she did not fight him, only stared at the man. Gimli then rose.
"She speaks truly. Give me your name, and then I will give you mine." he planted his feet apart and put his hand.
"Fine, I am Éomer Son of Éomund and am called Third Marshal of Riddermark"
"Then, am Éomer Son of Éomund, Third Marshal of Riddermark, let me, Gimli the Dwarf, teach you in a lesson of courtesy to Ladies beyond your wildest dreams. You speak evil which is fair beyond the reach of your thought, only little wit can save you." he drew out his axe halfway.
Éomer scowled, "I would kill you for saying that, though there is a Lady in our presence, sorceress or not."
"He stands not alone." He raised his bow with the speed of a skilled archer. Raquel stood clutching Legolas, her weary legs about to give way "You would die before your stroke fell." he stared into the man's face.
Éomer raised his sword, Raquel hid her head in Legolas' arm, scared of what might happen next. Aragorn sprang between them.
"Please, stop, this does not need to involve violence!" (AN- Cat, we can solve this problem without violence!) Aragorn said, looking to each. "Legolas, put your bow down." he whispered. The Elf dropped the bow slowly, keeping his eyes on Éomer.
"So you are Legolas, of Mirkwood I believe." Éomer made no sign of good faith, "And who might she be?" he looked at Raquel, who glared at him and turned away, half burying her face.
Aragorn felt a little pride surge through him,
"She is Gilwen Menelanna, youngest daughter of Elrond the Lord of Imladris. She is the second Lady of Lothlórien, though many call her Raquel." Raquel lifted her head slightly at the sound of her real name, surprised at the tone Aragorn used as the words rolled off his tongue.
Éomer looked at her, beholding a dirty Elven women, her clothes were in some places torn, her hands and arms cut and muddy. But he looked into her face, her eyes. A million emotions ran through him as he stared into her eyes. Out of everything else a beauty seemed to strike him, a sense of pity overwhelmed him. He looked away, her pride and strength making him feel small and foolish.
"Her.she's the other Lady?" he whispered, his voice sounding disbelief. A mummer went through his men. One of the men spit on her, she closed her eyes trying to hide her fury. The only thing that saved that mans neck was her focus and self-control, over her and the others. Gimli shifted his eyes flaming to the man, Legolas stirred, moving one of his hands to his knife.
"What is wrong with her?" he asked.
"She got shot by a poisonous arrow while defending one of our companions." Legolas said.
"Here, take this" Éomer handed Aragorn a leaf, "It should slow the poison. It is all I have at the moment, if you came to the city, then we could do more there."
"No, we shall not go, we are searching for some of our other companions, they are small, we call them Hobbits, though you may know them as halfings." he went on, though Raquel turned her attention to the men. Their horses, something was out there.
"Artemis?" Raquel said, though she shook her head,
"It cannot be" she thought, "It is too far away from home and how would she get here? But one thing is certain, a horse just like her is near by. So like her it makes me sick." she searched the crowd trying to find the match.
"Do you have any spare horses for us to use then?" Aragorn asked.
"Yes, we have three spare horses." Éomer said, "But we do not hand them out willingly, and as I said before there is something strange about you, Strider is not a fitting name. Who are you?"
"I am Aragorn, Son of Arathorn," he threw back his cloak to reveal his sword. "I am the heir of Isildur Elendil's son of Gondor. Will you aid me or thwart me? Choose quickly!"
Éomer cast his proud eyes on the ground for a few seconds, realizing all that surronded him. First, the Prince of Mirkwood, then this Lady that knows how to use a sword, and now a man that claims to be the King of Gondor!
"What are you doing here, all of you! As I said before, there is something strange about you, Aragorn" he looked to the Lady and then to Aragorn.
"It is not by choice that we come here, but duty and mercy has driven us thus far." Aragorn spoke for everyone else, "Tell your Lord Théoden this, there is no way to escape war. Saruman's power is growing, his armies are multiplying as we speak. Nobody in these tragic days have any land to call their own, except the Dark Lord himself. Either he aids in the fight against him or he may fall to the power of Sauron. Take that message to him, Éomer son of Éomund." his men began to whisper again.
"But now, I ask again for your aid, or at least tidings, you met with the orc host, what news can you bring us?" Aragorn asked, Raquel looked at him with hopeful eyes.
"You need not go any further, we killed and burned them all."
"And our companions?"
"There was nothing but filthy orc."
"Did you search the slain?!" Raquel asked, her desperate eyes stirred his heart, "You must have found something!"
"No, I am sorry Lady, but we did not."
"We must leave Lord, time is pressing!" a man strode forward, the one who had spit on Raquel. He glared at her, though she made no gesture to return it, her face emotionless as she looked to him.
"Peace, Éothain! Leave me here with them for awhile. Make ready to ride to the Entwade." Éomer said, not turning to him.
Éothain muttered under his breath as he shouted out commands to all of his men, they turned their horses to leave when Raquel gave a shout.
"Artemis!" in all the horses she saw nothing, only the feeling that she was there drove her to say that.
"Raquel, what are you talking about?" Aragorn said, turning to her, "Artemis is nowhere close to here, she is at Rivendell."
"No, Estel, she is here, I know it!" Raquel searched the moving horses. Nothing happened.
"Lady we have only but three spare horses, and all of them are ours." Éomer said, "If this Artemis is your horse, she will not be found with us, only the ones we breed are found in this country." he turned back to Aragorn and they started to talk.
"Raquel, nothing is here." Legolas said, "You are not well, it is the sickness that tricks your mind."
"Are you saying that I do not speak the truth?" Raquel took a step away from him, though she lost part of her balance.
He sighed, "Please, Raquel, I know how much you love to fight, but now is not the time. Later would be better." he looked at her wearily, but grabbed hold of her as she sank to the ground, her eyes closing from exhaustion.
"She is here, Legolas, I know it." she said fatigued as he held her up.
"Yes, Raquel, yes she is. Whatever you say." Legolas said, shaking off his sleep.
"Boromir is dead?!" the man said, "You bring evil tidings!"
"Yes, it was Raquel who protected him in his last breaths, she spared him to the death." Aragorn said, motioning to the Elf, "That is how she got her wound. it is now the fourth day since he was slain. He was killed under the shadow of Tol Brandir."
"And you came this far on foot?" Éomer asked, his brows slightly lifted.
"As you see us." Aragorn said.
"Petty is the name Strider. You shall be Wingfoot now, Aragorn." he turned to Raquel, "And you Lady, shall be Dayspring. Though, I hate to take away such a pretty name, Raquel, it is as though I have heard it before." Éomer looked at her thoughtfully.
"Maybe you have, you just never knew who it belonged to. I think I know who might have spoken of it, though his name I will not utter, for my grief of his death still hinders me." she spoke quietly, not lifting her head, but looking over her brow.
He caught one last glance at Raquel before turning to Aragorn, "You still do not tell me your whole tale."
"Do you pay tribute to Sauron?" Aragorn asked venomously.
"I pay tribute to no one but my Lord Théoden."
Aragorn sighed, "Can you at least lend us some horses, so we may quicken our way to find our friends?"
Éomer hesitated before answering, "Yes I can, but must promise me you will return them, and then come to the city, she needs proper care." he motioned to Raquel, "Plus, my Lord will wish to speak with you." Éomer then turned and gave orders to his men to bring the spare horses. Raquel tensed up, her eyes flashing as the horses appeared.
"How dare you?!" Raquel said, the rage shaking her body, "That is my horse, you took her!" she motioned to a horse in the lineup.
Éomer looked at her obviously confused, "What are you saying, Lady? This is Akris, and she is untamable, not even one of my men may get near her."
Raquel's hands moved swiftly to her sword, "Her name is Thalionfëa!"
"Thalionfëa, what does that mean, pray tell? And, Lady Dayspring, please, you could not tame this horse, not even the finest horsemaster in our land can."
"That is why I named her Thalionfëa, it means dauntless spirit."
"Then you are her master."
"No, she has no master, she serves me only out of her will. I do not wish to hold her in captivity, she deserves better than that."
"This is your horse then." Éomer said, "But she is bred just as a Rohan horse."
"She is not from Rohan!" Raquel said, "She is from Rivendell, I bred and raised her." she stopped and let out a shrill whistle, the horse came to her side.
Éomer frowned, he doubted she could ride this horse. When they had found the horse, they brought it back and fed and groomed her, though she let no one ride her. If one of his men could not ride her, then neither could this Lady, no matter how skilled a swordsman.
"Fine, go ahead, ride her. Show me that you do know how to ride." Éomer looked at her doubtingly. He folded his arms across his chest defiantly.
Raquel hesitated, not sure if she could move her aching body to mount. She looked over to Artemis, who nudged Raquel softly with her nose. She moved to the horse's side. Artemis swished her tail, noticing the Elf's shaking body. She put her foot in the stirrup, closing her eyes. Legolas moved toward her, but felt a hand stop him.
"No, she must do this alone." Aragorn said, focusing on her, "He is testing her, she must prove herself."
They watched as Raquel moved to mount, but Artemis moved.
"Artemis, please stop it." Raquel lost part of her balance, but grabbed Artemis' mane. The horse dropped it's head, Raquel let go of her. It moved forward, lowering itself to the ground.
"Artemis?" Raquel said, half in wonder.
Artemis stopped, halfway to the ground. She let out a soft neigh, shaking her head.
"Mount Raquel." Aragorn said, "She is trying to make it easier for you to mount."
Raquel took the saddle horn and put her foot in the stirrup, her mouth still slightly open in wonder, and swung her leg around, mounting the horse. Artemis raised herself to full stature, throwing her head back.
Raquel leaned forward, "Thank you." she whispered.
Aragorn looked to Éomer, "Now, will you let us mount our own horses?"
"Yes, of course," he never took his eyes off the horse and Elf as they went through some paces. "Éothain, get the other horses!"
The man walked a stallion over to Aragorn and handed the reins to him, bowing, "Here you are my Lord."
He then went back to the other horse and got it, handing the reins to Legolas without bowing, instead, he sneered.
"Here is your horse, my Prince. His name is Arod."
Legolas took them and politely bowed, though he did not do it very low.
"If it interests you in anyway, would you take the saddle off this horse?" Legolas asked.
The man gave a grunt and worked until everything was undone. Legolas jumped up lightly onto the horse's back. He rode the horse, speaking only words to move it in any way he pleased. The men and Dwarf were amazed. Even Raquel showed interest.
"There is no horse for my friend Gimli the Dwarf" Aragorn said, already mounted.
"And there need not be, for I will not mount those beasts." Gimli said, looking up to his companions.
"But if you do not ride, you will be a burden." Raquel said.
"Then he shall ride with me." Legolas said, "You may ride behind me."
With a nod from Gimli, they lifted him up behind the Elf. He clung to Legolas, getting a slight laugh from Raquel.
"Loosen up Gimli, it will not throw you off." Raquel said.
"How can you be so sure?" Gimli asked shakily.
"Are you questioning an Elf's ability to tame a beast?" she brows and glanced at Legolas, "I can assume he knows what he is doing." She winked at Gimli before turning Artemis and leaving.
"You will come to the city when you are done then?" Éomer asked of Aragorn.
"Yes, we will come." Aragorn said.
"Fine, then, whatever hope may be left, I wish you the best of luck in finding your friends." he mounted and assembled his men with one shout.
"Good-bye, for now!" he said, and with a wave, they left, starting toward the forest.
~!@#~!@#~!@#$%^&$%^&*()_*()_*~!@#~!@#~!@#$%^&$%^&*()_*()_*~!@#~!@#~!@#$%^&$% ^&*()_*()_*
So, that was long! Very long! (On word it says about 9 pages) Sorry it took so long to get to you guys, as I said before, I have had school, a hurt wrist, and a lot to write! oh yea, for anyone that cares, my wrist might be broken, I'm going in for more x-rays in a week. My doctor said my first x- ray looked 'unsual' *gulp*. So, for right now I'm in a splint. Anywhos, hope you like, more to come soon I hope. Have a great day everyone.
*~*~*Gabi*~*~*
Ps- Before you read more, I've had this annoying thing happen to me recently. I watch lotr like everyday, (I own it, but I already mentioned that awhile ago) and every time a scene that I've written, I expect to see Raquel there. Ummm. I know that sounds lame, but does anyone have any advice? I can't get it to stop! Help! Anyways, sorry to bug you, go ahead, read on.
dani- Umm.thanx and thanx! I guess, what else should I say? Keep reading, it only gets better! (I hope)
too lazy to login- Whoever you are, thanx, and be scared, I scare a lot of people. *Evil cackle* remember, to say evil, you must pronounce it, e-vile. ^_^
mermaid- Thanx, (ok, I know its all I keep saying, but what else should I say? I mean, I don't wanna sound stuck up) Yea, I'm realizing how fit and real Raquel has become. *refer to my PS* again, thanx for reviewing, I hope you have a great day, asta luego!
Leigha- Yea, my wrist will feel my wrath someday *wrist starts to hurt really bad*, but for right now, I must leave it alone. Stinks that no ones updated, I know what you mean. So, thanx for the review, I hope you have a great day!
KittyKat Blanc- thanx, I will keep goin, and I know lotr comes out Dec. 18, I've been countin down the days! thanx for reviewing, hope u read on!
Elena- thanx, (grrr! I need a new word!) I hope my wrist gets better soon too, the only good thing out of it is I get to get out of gym (we're playing these really boring games). Again, as much as I hate to use the word, thanx, I hope u enjoyed this chap! PS- I used ur border, thanx a bunch! Ü
Isabella- Last but not least, thanx for the two reviews, you're the best! *all the other reviewers start to growl* ummm. and so is everyone else! *other reviewers smile* anywhos, thanx for the review, hope you read more! torment and despair, that's me! ;)
Signed,
*~*~*Gabi, your humble writing servant*~*~*