A/N: I love this chapter! I spent some time on it since I couldn't remember what had happened in the movie, luckily I made it through! Well enjoy!
*Meg*
P.S~ Hobbits rule!
------------------------------
The place was being taken over by a dark force the people could not identify. War was on the tip of Paddamill's tongue. She could see it, feel it, and even taste it. The smell of fresh fish stung her nose as she walked down into the market where people talked lively of daily activities. Paddamill could only give a weak grin at the conversation about sewing and dinner. How the people could continue with daily lives with their king under a dark cloud and his son, their heir, dying right underneath him without even showing sadness. Paddamill knew what was wrong, she saw it in Lady Galadriel's mirror and she knew the fate of the kingdom if help didn't arrive soon. It looked slim. She knew Rohan was going to be taken over by Saruman and his evil spy Wormtongue.
"Dear Uncle, please go and pay your last respects to your dead son!" Éowyn pleaded as she looked at King Théoden's cold face. She wasn't stupid enough to think her Uncle was well, she knew Grìma had something to do with his brutal, cold appearance. "Please Uncle." She begged once more. When he didn't reply she looked at Grìma stand beside him whispering into his ear.
"I shall not look upon my dead son, for I do not repent." Éowyn frowned seeing his cold look. Théoden replied with a harsh tone. As tears fell down her face she stood and ran out the doors allowing to catch her breath. Éowyn looked over the city that was in ruin. What was she going to do? How was she going to help her poor uncle...she and Paddamill were useless she knew. She felt the weight of the city fall heavily on her shoulders.
All hope was lost. She turned her glance to the left to look at the black flag of Rohan. The wind picked up pace and the sound of it ripping off the pole echoed in her ears. She watched it dance across the sky and jump up and down as if avoided a flame. Éowyn watched it sadly, secretly wishing she could be like the torn flag. She wanted to dance across the wind, fly away from this place. Just to be free of worry and away from harm. Éowyn frowned when she saw three horses coming. A man in all white sitting curtly on his white horse, a man of dark contrast looking around riding on his brown horse, and two men one of small nature and one of beauty riding alongside on another brown horse. They all looked familiar. One even looked like the horses of Rohan. Maybe there was hope.
"Thank you." Paddamill smiled as she took a bag of beads from a small stand. It had been a long time since Paddamill picked up a needle and thread. After leaving her friends behind, she slowly regained her femininity she had forgotten months before. It had been too soon for her to begin her life after all she had lost her only mother who taught her everything there was to know about stitching. Paddamill looked in the paper bag seeing she had everything. A woman gasped and pulled her arm back. Paddamill slightly tumbled to the side and looked over at the elderly woman.
"My dear you almost walked right into that horse!" Paddamill looked up and saw the rear of a brown horse walk by. The woman gave her a small chuckle as if she were crazy. Paddamill could only grin.
"Oh my. I guess I didn't notice." Paddamill thought foolishly as she watched it walk away. Paddamill thanked the woman for grabbing her back to reality and turned to walk up towards the castle. As she closed her bag and looked up she saw a familiar face. Her heart jumped a beat and her breath was instantly taken away. Two horses were walking ahead of his and a man sat in front of the rider. His blonde hair flew to the left from the winds of Rohan. Paddamill couldn't believe her eyes she even had to stop walking just to watch him ride off. Once he turned the blood in her ears pounded faster than before.
"Paddamill?" Legolas questioned as he squinted his eyes and watched the familiar looking woman stop walking to give him a confused glance as well. It couldn't be. She was now somewhere in Lothlórien proceeding with her new life and new family. He had been thinking of her so much before he went to sleep at night that his head was beginning to hurt.
"Where!" Gimli asked harshly looking around. Legolas stopped and turned the horse to the side so Gimli could give him a second opinion. Legolas looked back and frowned.
"I say, lad. Your eyes are playing tricks on you. Paddamill isn't here she is off in Lorien, where the fairest woman lives." Legolas looked to the face Gimli who had disappointment on his face. He snorted and looked forward, turning the horse along with him. "Why would she be here?" Gimli asked as they continued to walk forward. Legolas could only look back once more to see many different faces, but not the beauty of Paddamill.
"Yes I suppose your right. The long ride has worn me down." Legolas sighed looking up to the castle.
"No, it wasn't. It just couldn't have been." Paddamill repeated to herself as she walked back to the vegetable cart catching her breath. It was like she had ran miles and miles without slowing down nor stopping. Her heart sped so fast she was bound to see it fly out. Her mind was still tired from the long ride from Lothlorien it was just a mistake, a man who resembled the pure innocence of Legolas. And a small hairy animal that breathed loudly like Gimli. It was just a traveler. Happy with her convincing words she let out a relieved sigh as she glanced at the welcoming foods. For a while longer Paddamill walked around watching how the Rohirrim's spent their afternoons. Besides, the smell of fresh foods, flowers, and leather were all too alluring to leave just yet. She would have guessed she had been shopping for another hour or so before her happy relaxing thoughts were trampled over by a horrifying scream.
"NO!" It echoed throughout the village causing Paddamill to stop looking at the food. People too, briefly paused to see what the noise was. Paddamill looked around at the confused Rohirrim folk. Only the worst traveled through her mind. Once everyone around her went back to their activities ignoring the odd moment, Paddamill paid the market man and quickly rushed up to the castle. Paddamill remembered what Grìma had told her last night of killing Féoden. Her anger and fright were fueled by his threatening words, she could only turn her jog into a sprint.
Paddamill threw down the bag of fresh fruits and vegetables since Éowyn's scream seemed a lot more concerning than that of food. She ran so fast she bumped people several times as she frantically made her way towards the castle. She nearly tripped on rocks from the muddy, rough terrain of the market, she pushed and pulled people over from her hard force, and ignored the feeling of wet shoes. She had to see what was going on even if that meant splashing into mud puddles.
Her hard steps scrapped the stone step's surface sounding of chalk being raked on a black board. The steps were now cracked and chipped in a worn down manner Paddamill realized as she watched her feet so she would not fall. Once she was at the top of the steps the wind blew her hair in her face and her dress to the left. Paddamill had to stop for a moment to catch her breath from running from the market all the way up to the castle. She watched a piece of her brown hair lift up in the air and slowly dance along with the wind. Paddamill pushed it out of her way and ran towards the doors and pushed them open. Paddamill looked around and ran off towards Féoden's sleeping quarters.
After running up two flights of spiral steps, running around endless corners, Paddamill finally made it to the same hall she was attacked in the night before. Paddamill's heart pounded as she slowly made her way down the hall. She noticed his doors were swung open and that his arms had been crossed over his chest. Paddamill held onto the doorframe catching her breath and looking down at the injured boy. She knew what was wrong when she heard Éowyn scream. Her cousin was dead. The lonely sight it was to see him lying motionless as the night before. Paddamill frowned as she watched the man. Her hands curled into a fist showing rage. He would've lived! If only for a little while, it was time he was given too and Grìma snatched it away like taking a toy doll from a baby. Paddamill sighed out opening her mouth so she wouldn't clench her jaw any harder. Tears stung her eyes as she thought of how Grìma would pay. She'd kill him. If not now then never. Paddamill turned and ran out the door only to be bumped by Éowyn.
"Paddamill!" She called out not with anger or sorrow but with happiness. Paddamill looked at the smile and joyful eyes. "Uncle has been restored do to the blessing of Aragorn of Dúnadan along with two other friends." Paddamill could've dropped to the floor. His name being said from her mouth was like being hit in the stomach by a hammer. It was a powerful blow, especially when Paddamill was as emotional as she was. Her stomach began to twist into multiple knots, her head began to swirl and her breath was immediately taken away. Éowyn frowned seeing Paddamill put her right hand over her stomach and began to sweat and breathe heavily.
"P-Paddamill?" Éowyn said her name with a soft concerning tone. "Are you alright?" Paddamill looked up at her and sighed faking comfort of the situation.
"Yes! Yes Éowyn, I'm fine. The recovery of Théoden is a miracle and comes quite as a shock."
"A shock?"
"I mean surprise. It's wonderful! I just...need some air." Paddamill rubbed Éowyn's shoulder and walked towards her room. Éowyn frowned and jogged to her grabbing her by the waist and left hand.
"Let me help you. I was so surprised when a wizard came-"
"Wizard!?" Paddamill stopped walking and choked out feeling the sensation from lack of air strike her once more. Éowyn smiled brightly.
"Yes, a wizard. Gandalf the white. He cured my uncle and the King of Rohan then they banned Grìma from ever returning to Rohan. Oh Paddamill! The cloud has been lifted! I never felt so alive!" Paddamill smiled weakly at her. Éowyn never seemed more happier. The thought of telling her she knew the men would be another surprise yet Paddamill didn't feel like bringing the subject up at the moment. There were too many important things to deal with aside the fact Féoden was dead. Murdered by the hand of Wormtongue. Paddamill didn't know why she felt as if someone were watching the two. She looked over her shoulder to see something quickly hide behind the corner. Paddamill didn't know if she should check it out or just walk with Éowyn. The urge to see whoever it was hiding around the corner tempted Paddamill but she knew she need to rest, if only for a moment.
"Gandalf the White." Paddamill repeated to herself as she walked down the long corridors heading towards the dining room where up ahead she could see the light from the large fireplace casting brilliant light and shadows on the wall. The sound of something scraping against metal echoed throughout the hall where the maroon carpet lead you towards the end of a long foyer allowing you to gain access to the gardens and other sanctuaries. A grin slid across her face as she felt the smooth feel of the Lucite texture that glistened in the light. Paddamill leaned her head to the right as she approached the doorway allowing her to see the large medieval attire.
Paddamill looked at Legolas from afar as she stood in the doorway to the great hall. She looked down at her hands that held the green decorative brooch. She grinned slightly and began to walk over towards him. Swift as a cat and silent as a fox she could be as she crossed the room over to where Legolas sat. For a moment she watched his back as he sharpened his dagger that he held in his hands while he sat in a pine wood chair along with rows of tables. He was so strong and so graceful in his movements, even while sitting. His blonde hair shimmered under the dark light. Paddamill could only be mesmerized by the beauty of him, even from behind. Paddamill smiled brightly stopping her stare and slowly walked behind him. She bent over his right shoulder then very carefully, she placed the pin in front of him, causing his swift sharpening movements to halt. He was mesmerized by the cool colors of green, blue, and turquoise. It was her.
"I was beginning to tire of cleaning and polishing the pin everyday. It was about time you showed up to reclaim it." Her voice was no higher than a whisper and the smile on her face could be felt through her confident words. Legolas could only do the same in return.
"I knew it was you." He said as though he were relieved. Quickly, he let down his dagger and turned around on the bench to look up and see her standing in all her radiance.
It might've been the way he had thought of her before, standing around with the fellowship wearing dirty clothes and hair tied back, or the way he missed her so. But the brilliant color she was radiating made Legolas want to squint. The dim light only added to her beauty. Her milky skin that was soft as silk, shimmered, her dark hair pinned back with strays falling heavenly into her eyes glistened, the white and pale pink gown falling to the floor with its mixed material's of silk ,beads, and lace sparkled, she was so beautiful it was almost as if she was an elf maiden of a far away land. Legolas didn't know how to react. She was now so feminine and so frail.
"Paddamill..." He softly spoke as he rose off the wooden bench and looked down at her. The smile he had on his face expressed how much he missed her. Paddamill could only laugh in surprise. For a moment they stood close together, smiles upon their faces and warmth in their hearts. It was so good to see a face she knew, a face she could trust.
"You look very well." Paddamill complimented not being able to tear her eyes off of him.
"You too." Soon after he spoke his smile slowly faded along with hers. "Why are you here in Rohan? What about your plans with Celeborn?" Paddamill softly frowned and looked down to her hands that picked at her soft dress. As she began to speak, she rose her chin to look up at the curious elf.
"War is near. They had to leave too so they traveled westward, far from Lothlórien. The forces of Sauron were too strong and only growing. Soon, I fear, Lothlórien will no longer be a place to seek refuge." Paddamill paused and cleared her throat. "Lady Galadriel knew of the hard time Éowyn was having so she sent me here, to help her." Legolas looked at her with a weak face. He could see the fear in her eyes. He allowed his hand to touch her forearm.
"You shouldn't be here...we're too close to danger. The war is nearly here and-" Paddamill pressed her index finger over Legolas' mouth. She smiled at him as he watched her silently.
"It's as dangerous here as it is in Lothlórien. Besides, I have to stay here and help my friend. She is all I have left in this world and I cannot lose her as well." Legolas grabbed her softly by the wrist of her right hand and pulled it away from his mouth. He knew he couldn't argue with her about this decision he had seen the pleading eyes when Lord Elrond commanded her to go with her remaining family.
"I understand your task but I wish you'd reconsider." For a brief moment Legolas paused before continuing on "...Paddamill if you only knew what a great threat this means to your life and many others."
"I do know, Legolas. It has been the only thing on my mind aside from the fellowship. This is my choice, I will stay and help." Legolas frowned softly and sighed.
"So be it. I just wish you'd go home, away from what is about to happen." Paddamill smiled and rubbed his face.
"If there were only more of you, Legolas. I appreciate your concern and I take my decision very seriously. I want to stay. And I will stay." Legolas nodded and blinked slowly.
"I might not try and stop you from staying but I will try and keep you safe."
"Thank you, Legolas." Paddamill closed in on him and wrapped her arms around his neck and stood on her tip toes, hugging him tightly. "I will speak with you later, right now I need to find Aragorn," the tight hold of Legolas felt safe and secure. Paddamill could hug him forever if she could. Slowly she fell on her feet and looked up at his blue eyes. "Where is he?"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Aragorn allowed the cool air to hit his face as he stood out in the moonlight from Paddamill's balcony. The place looked so peaceful yet it wasn't. The stress was beginning to challenge him, he could feel it taking over his mind and body. The weight of Frodo and Sam were also heavy on his shoulders. He didn't know what was happening to them or the ring. Then there was Merry and Pippin who were probably being tormented by now. Along with Arwen and now Paddamill. He let out a sigh and lowered his head to his right hand. There were so many things to think about at the moment and he didn't know which one to start with.
Paddamill slowly walked into her bedchambers and knelt down in front of the fireplace. With careful placement Paddamill tossed two pieces of wood on top of the dying fire. She glanced over to the left to see Aragorn leaning on the stone railing concentrating on something. Feeling her heart jump with excitement and fright she quickly turned to look back at the fire. With the poker, Paddamill pushed the wood around, making the fire grow large once more gaining the strength and breath to talk.
"You're so quiet," Aragorn turned on his heel to see her playing with the fire. "Had I not known you were there I don't think I would've found you on my balcony." Paddamill titled her head to the right watching the flames grow in size and in color. Aragorn took in a deep breath. It were as if he couldn't breathe when he saw her. It had been nearly a month and a half since she left the group. When Legolas told him that the woman in the market was Paddamill he couldn't believe the thought of her being in Rohan. She always seemed to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
"Legolas. Told me he saw you in the market this morning. I...I didn't believe it until I saw you walking with Éowyn towards her room. I thought I would come and say hello." Paddamill stood up feeling Aragorn stop just a few feet away. Paddamill turned to look him in the eyes. As soon as their eyes met, Aragorn turned away. Paddamill walked forward and placed her left hand on his cheek to turn his head forward.
"You didn't come here to say hello. You have come to ask me to leave Rohan." Paddamill was right, Aragorn thought. He reached up with his left hand and stroked her soft cheek. His callused hands were rough yet gentle. They sent shivers up Paddamill's spine.
"You're more beautiful than I remember." Aragorn said lowly as he watched her eyes close and her long thick eyelashes curve on her fair cheeks. He slowly let his hand pull back and watched her eyes open slowly. He squinted lightly feeling his hands ache to touch her again. He let out a subdued and suppressed chuckle. He had found another object that made his hands ache as bad as the ring. He could only see the irony of it all.
Paddamill looked up at his face. He was glancing down with a grin on his face. Paddamill tilted her head and watched him.
"What?" She questioned feeling a grin slide across her face. Aragorn looked up at her with a glisten in his eyes.
"I was just thinking of how different you look." Paddamill looked down at his chest then back up to his face. She couldn't stand it any longer. She reached her hands to his face and felt the smooth curve of his cheeks and coarseness from his unshaven beard. She stepped closer to him and placed her right hand on his head to feel his dirty hair that was wet from rain and grainy feeing from mud and dirt. She closed her right hand and grazed her smooth knuckles on the left side of his face. It were as if she were mesmerized at the feel of dirt and unclean skin. She had just wanted to feel him with her hands for so long she couldn't possibly think of pausing.
Aragorn didn't stop her, nor did he want to either. Her soft silky touch was too soothing to put an end to. If he had the power to do so he'd prolong the moment. He could honestly say he wanted this moment to last forever. It were as if he had never felt such gentleness. But as soon as he was beginning to enjoy the feel of her touching him it ended all too soon. She let her hands fall from their place and back to her side. A tinge of red warmed her cheeks as she looked away from him.
"Legolas told me of all that has happened. You running into Éomer and then searching for Merry and Pippin." Paddamill turned and looked into the fire. The flames could describe the burning sensation she had in her mind. Everyone was burned into her mind just as the heat burned her cheeks. She could've cried with all her heart when she heard of them not finding the two hobbits. She just wished she knew something. "I hope they are safe." Paddamill spoke in one breath. Quickly she turned and looked at Aragorn. "I won't leave Rohan. I am here for a reason, a task. Éowyn is my friend and I will help her tomorrow by watching over the people as we move to Helm's Deep."
"I understand." Paddamill looked up with tears in her eyes. Why she was now so emotional was beyond her. But she didn't care. She needed to cry, cry for herself, the hobbits, Boromir, her family, everyone. She hadn't cried for so long it was bound to come out now or never.
"Do you?" Aragorn looked at her. Why he had to see her cry was heartbreaking enough. Paddamill looked away for a moment. She closed her eyes tightly and walked over to Aragorn.
"I have prayed many days and many nights for the return of our Fellowship. As vain as it was I needed you to help me..." She looked up at him and frowned "to be with me." Aragorn watched the tears fall. With his thumbs he cleared them away.
"You do not need me anymore, Paddamill. You never needed me." Aragorn frowned softly realizing his words. It seemed to make perfect sense, but in fact it was the other way around. Aragorn was the one that needed something, her. Not just her strength and honorable fighting, but her heart as well. He need to let Arwen go. He needed her to go with her family to Valinor, or the blessed Realm, in such a time of crisis. She needed to fall in love with someone immortal, someone who could be with her for the remainder in time. What could've taken Arwen a lifetime of loneliness to figure out only took one woman to allow Aragorn to see it.
Arwen in a way was more wise and seeing her throw that away for one mortal man was heartbreaking. Aragorn needed someone to spend the rest of his natural life with, someone who would not witness such loneliness for all eternity. He needed someone like Paddamill.
"Everything is a battle," Paddamill watched Aragorn stride to the opened doors where the cool air flew in. "aside from a war we are about to face, you still have another one. A battle to forget the ones that have passed, a battle to not cry, or what to fix for supper." He took a deep breath as if he were going to speak once more, but he only let it out in a silent sigh. Paddamill walked over to him and grabbed his right shoulder gently.
"Or...a battle to ignore the mistakes your kin had made. An ongoing battle to try and not relive his fate." Aragorn looked over at her with gentle eyes. "The fear is in your eyes, Aragorn. I saw it day by day just as Boromir battled the greed to help his city. It is not that we purposely battle with ourselves it is just the way we are and things such as this give you yet another battle." Aragorn knew she was right. She couldn't have been any clearer than that. "Things are plaguing your mind."
"The only thing plaguing my mind Paddamill..." he paused momentarily as he looked deep into her eyes. Paddamill could only cascade in the pools of gray that shimmered from the fire. "is you. And your life." As if he were embarrassed her turned towards the blazing fire.
"My life?" She questioned with slit eyes. Aragorn clenched his teeth and made up his mind in that moment.
"You will leave Rohan and take the boat to Valinor where you can be with your Uncle." Quickly he turned on his heel and walked to her door. Paddamill frowned and rushed over to him. She grabbed his arm, stopping him from going out her doors.
"I will not!" She protested "I already have told you what I will be doing. I am staying with Éowyn she and I are helping the people to Helm's Deep."
"You need to go."
"But I'm not. Aragorn you are a wise and noble man and anyone who knew you would do as you say-"
"Then why aren't you!" Aragorn spat out at her with deep anger in his voice. Paddamill stood back with a heavy frown.
"Because this concerns me. I would go if I didn't have something worth fighting for. I have abandoned one task I will not another!" Aragorn frowned and stepped close to her. His eyes were now dark with anger and his voice was strong and husky.
"This isn't about a revenge for your parents, Paddamill! Things happen in life good and bad! When something bad happens you can't just traipse around seeking revenge on something. Damn it, Paddamill, if you were smart you'd understand that!" Paddamill's expression changed from a frown to a hurtful glance. Had he just said that? Had he just said she was a fool? An ignorant girl who was in love seeking revenge on murder? Aragorn realized his harsh words himself. Slowly he took a step back and looked to the ground. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean-"
"Don't worry." Paddamill coolly replied raising her eyebrows as her red eyes began to itch.
"Paddamill this is not some small vendetta, this is a war! Sauron and Saruman's forces have combined they have many...many warriors." His voice was more concerning now, he was trying to tell her he loved her with words, ignoring the pain he had in his stomach from just hurting her feelings. Paddamill sighed as she walked to her door and opened it up allowing the bright light in her room to leak out into the hall.
"Well then in that case we must get some sleep." She held out her right hand gesturing him out of her room. She was angry this time around. Boromir's death, the kidnapping of the two hobbits, the murder of her family...all of it had sunk in. And now with Aragorn's hard words. This wasn't about revenge, but refuge. She was going to help people so that something like this wouldn't happen to them like it did her. She was no longer some girl but a soldier. A soldier who was going to help the peace of Middle Earth!
Aragorn snorted at her stubborn behavior. He walked out the door slowly and before he could turn and tell her he admired how she was acting she needed to think about herself instead of others. But the only thing he got to do was hear the doors slamming together and her lock the doors.
"Paddamill..." Aragorn mumbled lowly as he turned and walked away.
*Meg*
P.S~ Hobbits rule!
------------------------------
The place was being taken over by a dark force the people could not identify. War was on the tip of Paddamill's tongue. She could see it, feel it, and even taste it. The smell of fresh fish stung her nose as she walked down into the market where people talked lively of daily activities. Paddamill could only give a weak grin at the conversation about sewing and dinner. How the people could continue with daily lives with their king under a dark cloud and his son, their heir, dying right underneath him without even showing sadness. Paddamill knew what was wrong, she saw it in Lady Galadriel's mirror and she knew the fate of the kingdom if help didn't arrive soon. It looked slim. She knew Rohan was going to be taken over by Saruman and his evil spy Wormtongue.
"Dear Uncle, please go and pay your last respects to your dead son!" Éowyn pleaded as she looked at King Théoden's cold face. She wasn't stupid enough to think her Uncle was well, she knew Grìma had something to do with his brutal, cold appearance. "Please Uncle." She begged once more. When he didn't reply she looked at Grìma stand beside him whispering into his ear.
"I shall not look upon my dead son, for I do not repent." Éowyn frowned seeing his cold look. Théoden replied with a harsh tone. As tears fell down her face she stood and ran out the doors allowing to catch her breath. Éowyn looked over the city that was in ruin. What was she going to do? How was she going to help her poor uncle...she and Paddamill were useless she knew. She felt the weight of the city fall heavily on her shoulders.
All hope was lost. She turned her glance to the left to look at the black flag of Rohan. The wind picked up pace and the sound of it ripping off the pole echoed in her ears. She watched it dance across the sky and jump up and down as if avoided a flame. Éowyn watched it sadly, secretly wishing she could be like the torn flag. She wanted to dance across the wind, fly away from this place. Just to be free of worry and away from harm. Éowyn frowned when she saw three horses coming. A man in all white sitting curtly on his white horse, a man of dark contrast looking around riding on his brown horse, and two men one of small nature and one of beauty riding alongside on another brown horse. They all looked familiar. One even looked like the horses of Rohan. Maybe there was hope.
"Thank you." Paddamill smiled as she took a bag of beads from a small stand. It had been a long time since Paddamill picked up a needle and thread. After leaving her friends behind, she slowly regained her femininity she had forgotten months before. It had been too soon for her to begin her life after all she had lost her only mother who taught her everything there was to know about stitching. Paddamill looked in the paper bag seeing she had everything. A woman gasped and pulled her arm back. Paddamill slightly tumbled to the side and looked over at the elderly woman.
"My dear you almost walked right into that horse!" Paddamill looked up and saw the rear of a brown horse walk by. The woman gave her a small chuckle as if she were crazy. Paddamill could only grin.
"Oh my. I guess I didn't notice." Paddamill thought foolishly as she watched it walk away. Paddamill thanked the woman for grabbing her back to reality and turned to walk up towards the castle. As she closed her bag and looked up she saw a familiar face. Her heart jumped a beat and her breath was instantly taken away. Two horses were walking ahead of his and a man sat in front of the rider. His blonde hair flew to the left from the winds of Rohan. Paddamill couldn't believe her eyes she even had to stop walking just to watch him ride off. Once he turned the blood in her ears pounded faster than before.
"Paddamill?" Legolas questioned as he squinted his eyes and watched the familiar looking woman stop walking to give him a confused glance as well. It couldn't be. She was now somewhere in Lothlórien proceeding with her new life and new family. He had been thinking of her so much before he went to sleep at night that his head was beginning to hurt.
"Where!" Gimli asked harshly looking around. Legolas stopped and turned the horse to the side so Gimli could give him a second opinion. Legolas looked back and frowned.
"I say, lad. Your eyes are playing tricks on you. Paddamill isn't here she is off in Lorien, where the fairest woman lives." Legolas looked to the face Gimli who had disappointment on his face. He snorted and looked forward, turning the horse along with him. "Why would she be here?" Gimli asked as they continued to walk forward. Legolas could only look back once more to see many different faces, but not the beauty of Paddamill.
"Yes I suppose your right. The long ride has worn me down." Legolas sighed looking up to the castle.
"No, it wasn't. It just couldn't have been." Paddamill repeated to herself as she walked back to the vegetable cart catching her breath. It was like she had ran miles and miles without slowing down nor stopping. Her heart sped so fast she was bound to see it fly out. Her mind was still tired from the long ride from Lothlorien it was just a mistake, a man who resembled the pure innocence of Legolas. And a small hairy animal that breathed loudly like Gimli. It was just a traveler. Happy with her convincing words she let out a relieved sigh as she glanced at the welcoming foods. For a while longer Paddamill walked around watching how the Rohirrim's spent their afternoons. Besides, the smell of fresh foods, flowers, and leather were all too alluring to leave just yet. She would have guessed she had been shopping for another hour or so before her happy relaxing thoughts were trampled over by a horrifying scream.
"NO!" It echoed throughout the village causing Paddamill to stop looking at the food. People too, briefly paused to see what the noise was. Paddamill looked around at the confused Rohirrim folk. Only the worst traveled through her mind. Once everyone around her went back to their activities ignoring the odd moment, Paddamill paid the market man and quickly rushed up to the castle. Paddamill remembered what Grìma had told her last night of killing Féoden. Her anger and fright were fueled by his threatening words, she could only turn her jog into a sprint.
Paddamill threw down the bag of fresh fruits and vegetables since Éowyn's scream seemed a lot more concerning than that of food. She ran so fast she bumped people several times as she frantically made her way towards the castle. She nearly tripped on rocks from the muddy, rough terrain of the market, she pushed and pulled people over from her hard force, and ignored the feeling of wet shoes. She had to see what was going on even if that meant splashing into mud puddles.
Her hard steps scrapped the stone step's surface sounding of chalk being raked on a black board. The steps were now cracked and chipped in a worn down manner Paddamill realized as she watched her feet so she would not fall. Once she was at the top of the steps the wind blew her hair in her face and her dress to the left. Paddamill had to stop for a moment to catch her breath from running from the market all the way up to the castle. She watched a piece of her brown hair lift up in the air and slowly dance along with the wind. Paddamill pushed it out of her way and ran towards the doors and pushed them open. Paddamill looked around and ran off towards Féoden's sleeping quarters.
After running up two flights of spiral steps, running around endless corners, Paddamill finally made it to the same hall she was attacked in the night before. Paddamill's heart pounded as she slowly made her way down the hall. She noticed his doors were swung open and that his arms had been crossed over his chest. Paddamill held onto the doorframe catching her breath and looking down at the injured boy. She knew what was wrong when she heard Éowyn scream. Her cousin was dead. The lonely sight it was to see him lying motionless as the night before. Paddamill frowned as she watched the man. Her hands curled into a fist showing rage. He would've lived! If only for a little while, it was time he was given too and Grìma snatched it away like taking a toy doll from a baby. Paddamill sighed out opening her mouth so she wouldn't clench her jaw any harder. Tears stung her eyes as she thought of how Grìma would pay. She'd kill him. If not now then never. Paddamill turned and ran out the door only to be bumped by Éowyn.
"Paddamill!" She called out not with anger or sorrow but with happiness. Paddamill looked at the smile and joyful eyes. "Uncle has been restored do to the blessing of Aragorn of Dúnadan along with two other friends." Paddamill could've dropped to the floor. His name being said from her mouth was like being hit in the stomach by a hammer. It was a powerful blow, especially when Paddamill was as emotional as she was. Her stomach began to twist into multiple knots, her head began to swirl and her breath was immediately taken away. Éowyn frowned seeing Paddamill put her right hand over her stomach and began to sweat and breathe heavily.
"P-Paddamill?" Éowyn said her name with a soft concerning tone. "Are you alright?" Paddamill looked up at her and sighed faking comfort of the situation.
"Yes! Yes Éowyn, I'm fine. The recovery of Théoden is a miracle and comes quite as a shock."
"A shock?"
"I mean surprise. It's wonderful! I just...need some air." Paddamill rubbed Éowyn's shoulder and walked towards her room. Éowyn frowned and jogged to her grabbing her by the waist and left hand.
"Let me help you. I was so surprised when a wizard came-"
"Wizard!?" Paddamill stopped walking and choked out feeling the sensation from lack of air strike her once more. Éowyn smiled brightly.
"Yes, a wizard. Gandalf the white. He cured my uncle and the King of Rohan then they banned Grìma from ever returning to Rohan. Oh Paddamill! The cloud has been lifted! I never felt so alive!" Paddamill smiled weakly at her. Éowyn never seemed more happier. The thought of telling her she knew the men would be another surprise yet Paddamill didn't feel like bringing the subject up at the moment. There were too many important things to deal with aside the fact Féoden was dead. Murdered by the hand of Wormtongue. Paddamill didn't know why she felt as if someone were watching the two. She looked over her shoulder to see something quickly hide behind the corner. Paddamill didn't know if she should check it out or just walk with Éowyn. The urge to see whoever it was hiding around the corner tempted Paddamill but she knew she need to rest, if only for a moment.
"Gandalf the White." Paddamill repeated to herself as she walked down the long corridors heading towards the dining room where up ahead she could see the light from the large fireplace casting brilliant light and shadows on the wall. The sound of something scraping against metal echoed throughout the hall where the maroon carpet lead you towards the end of a long foyer allowing you to gain access to the gardens and other sanctuaries. A grin slid across her face as she felt the smooth feel of the Lucite texture that glistened in the light. Paddamill leaned her head to the right as she approached the doorway allowing her to see the large medieval attire.
Paddamill looked at Legolas from afar as she stood in the doorway to the great hall. She looked down at her hands that held the green decorative brooch. She grinned slightly and began to walk over towards him. Swift as a cat and silent as a fox she could be as she crossed the room over to where Legolas sat. For a moment she watched his back as he sharpened his dagger that he held in his hands while he sat in a pine wood chair along with rows of tables. He was so strong and so graceful in his movements, even while sitting. His blonde hair shimmered under the dark light. Paddamill could only be mesmerized by the beauty of him, even from behind. Paddamill smiled brightly stopping her stare and slowly walked behind him. She bent over his right shoulder then very carefully, she placed the pin in front of him, causing his swift sharpening movements to halt. He was mesmerized by the cool colors of green, blue, and turquoise. It was her.
"I was beginning to tire of cleaning and polishing the pin everyday. It was about time you showed up to reclaim it." Her voice was no higher than a whisper and the smile on her face could be felt through her confident words. Legolas could only do the same in return.
"I knew it was you." He said as though he were relieved. Quickly, he let down his dagger and turned around on the bench to look up and see her standing in all her radiance.
It might've been the way he had thought of her before, standing around with the fellowship wearing dirty clothes and hair tied back, or the way he missed her so. But the brilliant color she was radiating made Legolas want to squint. The dim light only added to her beauty. Her milky skin that was soft as silk, shimmered, her dark hair pinned back with strays falling heavenly into her eyes glistened, the white and pale pink gown falling to the floor with its mixed material's of silk ,beads, and lace sparkled, she was so beautiful it was almost as if she was an elf maiden of a far away land. Legolas didn't know how to react. She was now so feminine and so frail.
"Paddamill..." He softly spoke as he rose off the wooden bench and looked down at her. The smile he had on his face expressed how much he missed her. Paddamill could only laugh in surprise. For a moment they stood close together, smiles upon their faces and warmth in their hearts. It was so good to see a face she knew, a face she could trust.
"You look very well." Paddamill complimented not being able to tear her eyes off of him.
"You too." Soon after he spoke his smile slowly faded along with hers. "Why are you here in Rohan? What about your plans with Celeborn?" Paddamill softly frowned and looked down to her hands that picked at her soft dress. As she began to speak, she rose her chin to look up at the curious elf.
"War is near. They had to leave too so they traveled westward, far from Lothlórien. The forces of Sauron were too strong and only growing. Soon, I fear, Lothlórien will no longer be a place to seek refuge." Paddamill paused and cleared her throat. "Lady Galadriel knew of the hard time Éowyn was having so she sent me here, to help her." Legolas looked at her with a weak face. He could see the fear in her eyes. He allowed his hand to touch her forearm.
"You shouldn't be here...we're too close to danger. The war is nearly here and-" Paddamill pressed her index finger over Legolas' mouth. She smiled at him as he watched her silently.
"It's as dangerous here as it is in Lothlórien. Besides, I have to stay here and help my friend. She is all I have left in this world and I cannot lose her as well." Legolas grabbed her softly by the wrist of her right hand and pulled it away from his mouth. He knew he couldn't argue with her about this decision he had seen the pleading eyes when Lord Elrond commanded her to go with her remaining family.
"I understand your task but I wish you'd reconsider." For a brief moment Legolas paused before continuing on "...Paddamill if you only knew what a great threat this means to your life and many others."
"I do know, Legolas. It has been the only thing on my mind aside from the fellowship. This is my choice, I will stay and help." Legolas frowned softly and sighed.
"So be it. I just wish you'd go home, away from what is about to happen." Paddamill smiled and rubbed his face.
"If there were only more of you, Legolas. I appreciate your concern and I take my decision very seriously. I want to stay. And I will stay." Legolas nodded and blinked slowly.
"I might not try and stop you from staying but I will try and keep you safe."
"Thank you, Legolas." Paddamill closed in on him and wrapped her arms around his neck and stood on her tip toes, hugging him tightly. "I will speak with you later, right now I need to find Aragorn," the tight hold of Legolas felt safe and secure. Paddamill could hug him forever if she could. Slowly she fell on her feet and looked up at his blue eyes. "Where is he?"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Aragorn allowed the cool air to hit his face as he stood out in the moonlight from Paddamill's balcony. The place looked so peaceful yet it wasn't. The stress was beginning to challenge him, he could feel it taking over his mind and body. The weight of Frodo and Sam were also heavy on his shoulders. He didn't know what was happening to them or the ring. Then there was Merry and Pippin who were probably being tormented by now. Along with Arwen and now Paddamill. He let out a sigh and lowered his head to his right hand. There were so many things to think about at the moment and he didn't know which one to start with.
Paddamill slowly walked into her bedchambers and knelt down in front of the fireplace. With careful placement Paddamill tossed two pieces of wood on top of the dying fire. She glanced over to the left to see Aragorn leaning on the stone railing concentrating on something. Feeling her heart jump with excitement and fright she quickly turned to look back at the fire. With the poker, Paddamill pushed the wood around, making the fire grow large once more gaining the strength and breath to talk.
"You're so quiet," Aragorn turned on his heel to see her playing with the fire. "Had I not known you were there I don't think I would've found you on my balcony." Paddamill titled her head to the right watching the flames grow in size and in color. Aragorn took in a deep breath. It were as if he couldn't breathe when he saw her. It had been nearly a month and a half since she left the group. When Legolas told him that the woman in the market was Paddamill he couldn't believe the thought of her being in Rohan. She always seemed to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
"Legolas. Told me he saw you in the market this morning. I...I didn't believe it until I saw you walking with Éowyn towards her room. I thought I would come and say hello." Paddamill stood up feeling Aragorn stop just a few feet away. Paddamill turned to look him in the eyes. As soon as their eyes met, Aragorn turned away. Paddamill walked forward and placed her left hand on his cheek to turn his head forward.
"You didn't come here to say hello. You have come to ask me to leave Rohan." Paddamill was right, Aragorn thought. He reached up with his left hand and stroked her soft cheek. His callused hands were rough yet gentle. They sent shivers up Paddamill's spine.
"You're more beautiful than I remember." Aragorn said lowly as he watched her eyes close and her long thick eyelashes curve on her fair cheeks. He slowly let his hand pull back and watched her eyes open slowly. He squinted lightly feeling his hands ache to touch her again. He let out a subdued and suppressed chuckle. He had found another object that made his hands ache as bad as the ring. He could only see the irony of it all.
Paddamill looked up at his face. He was glancing down with a grin on his face. Paddamill tilted her head and watched him.
"What?" She questioned feeling a grin slide across her face. Aragorn looked up at her with a glisten in his eyes.
"I was just thinking of how different you look." Paddamill looked down at his chest then back up to his face. She couldn't stand it any longer. She reached her hands to his face and felt the smooth curve of his cheeks and coarseness from his unshaven beard. She stepped closer to him and placed her right hand on his head to feel his dirty hair that was wet from rain and grainy feeing from mud and dirt. She closed her right hand and grazed her smooth knuckles on the left side of his face. It were as if she were mesmerized at the feel of dirt and unclean skin. She had just wanted to feel him with her hands for so long she couldn't possibly think of pausing.
Aragorn didn't stop her, nor did he want to either. Her soft silky touch was too soothing to put an end to. If he had the power to do so he'd prolong the moment. He could honestly say he wanted this moment to last forever. It were as if he had never felt such gentleness. But as soon as he was beginning to enjoy the feel of her touching him it ended all too soon. She let her hands fall from their place and back to her side. A tinge of red warmed her cheeks as she looked away from him.
"Legolas told me of all that has happened. You running into Éomer and then searching for Merry and Pippin." Paddamill turned and looked into the fire. The flames could describe the burning sensation she had in her mind. Everyone was burned into her mind just as the heat burned her cheeks. She could've cried with all her heart when she heard of them not finding the two hobbits. She just wished she knew something. "I hope they are safe." Paddamill spoke in one breath. Quickly she turned and looked at Aragorn. "I won't leave Rohan. I am here for a reason, a task. Éowyn is my friend and I will help her tomorrow by watching over the people as we move to Helm's Deep."
"I understand." Paddamill looked up with tears in her eyes. Why she was now so emotional was beyond her. But she didn't care. She needed to cry, cry for herself, the hobbits, Boromir, her family, everyone. She hadn't cried for so long it was bound to come out now or never.
"Do you?" Aragorn looked at her. Why he had to see her cry was heartbreaking enough. Paddamill looked away for a moment. She closed her eyes tightly and walked over to Aragorn.
"I have prayed many days and many nights for the return of our Fellowship. As vain as it was I needed you to help me..." She looked up at him and frowned "to be with me." Aragorn watched the tears fall. With his thumbs he cleared them away.
"You do not need me anymore, Paddamill. You never needed me." Aragorn frowned softly realizing his words. It seemed to make perfect sense, but in fact it was the other way around. Aragorn was the one that needed something, her. Not just her strength and honorable fighting, but her heart as well. He need to let Arwen go. He needed her to go with her family to Valinor, or the blessed Realm, in such a time of crisis. She needed to fall in love with someone immortal, someone who could be with her for the remainder in time. What could've taken Arwen a lifetime of loneliness to figure out only took one woman to allow Aragorn to see it.
Arwen in a way was more wise and seeing her throw that away for one mortal man was heartbreaking. Aragorn needed someone to spend the rest of his natural life with, someone who would not witness such loneliness for all eternity. He needed someone like Paddamill.
"Everything is a battle," Paddamill watched Aragorn stride to the opened doors where the cool air flew in. "aside from a war we are about to face, you still have another one. A battle to forget the ones that have passed, a battle to not cry, or what to fix for supper." He took a deep breath as if he were going to speak once more, but he only let it out in a silent sigh. Paddamill walked over to him and grabbed his right shoulder gently.
"Or...a battle to ignore the mistakes your kin had made. An ongoing battle to try and not relive his fate." Aragorn looked over at her with gentle eyes. "The fear is in your eyes, Aragorn. I saw it day by day just as Boromir battled the greed to help his city. It is not that we purposely battle with ourselves it is just the way we are and things such as this give you yet another battle." Aragorn knew she was right. She couldn't have been any clearer than that. "Things are plaguing your mind."
"The only thing plaguing my mind Paddamill..." he paused momentarily as he looked deep into her eyes. Paddamill could only cascade in the pools of gray that shimmered from the fire. "is you. And your life." As if he were embarrassed her turned towards the blazing fire.
"My life?" She questioned with slit eyes. Aragorn clenched his teeth and made up his mind in that moment.
"You will leave Rohan and take the boat to Valinor where you can be with your Uncle." Quickly he turned on his heel and walked to her door. Paddamill frowned and rushed over to him. She grabbed his arm, stopping him from going out her doors.
"I will not!" She protested "I already have told you what I will be doing. I am staying with Éowyn she and I are helping the people to Helm's Deep."
"You need to go."
"But I'm not. Aragorn you are a wise and noble man and anyone who knew you would do as you say-"
"Then why aren't you!" Aragorn spat out at her with deep anger in his voice. Paddamill stood back with a heavy frown.
"Because this concerns me. I would go if I didn't have something worth fighting for. I have abandoned one task I will not another!" Aragorn frowned and stepped close to her. His eyes were now dark with anger and his voice was strong and husky.
"This isn't about a revenge for your parents, Paddamill! Things happen in life good and bad! When something bad happens you can't just traipse around seeking revenge on something. Damn it, Paddamill, if you were smart you'd understand that!" Paddamill's expression changed from a frown to a hurtful glance. Had he just said that? Had he just said she was a fool? An ignorant girl who was in love seeking revenge on murder? Aragorn realized his harsh words himself. Slowly he took a step back and looked to the ground. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean-"
"Don't worry." Paddamill coolly replied raising her eyebrows as her red eyes began to itch.
"Paddamill this is not some small vendetta, this is a war! Sauron and Saruman's forces have combined they have many...many warriors." His voice was more concerning now, he was trying to tell her he loved her with words, ignoring the pain he had in his stomach from just hurting her feelings. Paddamill sighed as she walked to her door and opened it up allowing the bright light in her room to leak out into the hall.
"Well then in that case we must get some sleep." She held out her right hand gesturing him out of her room. She was angry this time around. Boromir's death, the kidnapping of the two hobbits, the murder of her family...all of it had sunk in. And now with Aragorn's hard words. This wasn't about revenge, but refuge. She was going to help people so that something like this wouldn't happen to them like it did her. She was no longer some girl but a soldier. A soldier who was going to help the peace of Middle Earth!
Aragorn snorted at her stubborn behavior. He walked out the door slowly and before he could turn and tell her he admired how she was acting she needed to think about herself instead of others. But the only thing he got to do was hear the doors slamming together and her lock the doors.
"Paddamill..." Aragorn mumbled lowly as he turned and walked away.
