A/N: Okay, the Elves showing up at Helms Deep really bothered me,
especially Haldir leading a Rivendell army. This chapter is my explanation
as to why this occurred.
This can't last forever
Time won't make things better
I feel so alone
Can't help ourselves
And no one knows
That this is worthless to me so
What have we done
We're in a war that can't be won
This can't be real
I don't know what to feel now
[Chorus:]
So am I still waiting
For this world to stop hating
Can't find a good reason
Can't find hope to believe in
So am I still waiting
For this world to stop hating
Can't find a good reason
For this world to BELIEVE
Sum 41- "Still Waiting"
Helms Deep
The journey to the Gap of Rohan was one filled with anxiety. Mirriel had begun to loose track of the days and was not even sure if there was any hope of making it to Helms Deep in time. She did not know how she would handle discovering the massacred bodies of all inside the fortress, knowing if only they had arrived there sooner, they might have been of some help. And no matter how much she tried to push these disturbing thoughts down, they kept popping right back up into her consciousness.
The company was several hundred paces from the Gap of Rohan- it could be seen as a speck in the distance- when the beating of horse hoofs could be heard. Haldir glanced around quickly, looking for somewhere to guide the party for coverage, but they were in the open with nothing in sight. The three brothers quickly surrounded the sisters as a large band of riders encircled them, swords drawn. Haldir notched an arrow, readying his bow to take aim. As he moved to raise his arm, Mirriel placed her hand in the crook of his elbow, gently lowering his arm back to where the arrow pointed down to the ground. She quickly realized they were surrounded by a band of men and no matter what they did to prevent a slaughter, they would be dead if these men decided to act. It was best not to antagonize them and try to use reason instead.
The horses pranced and snorted, anxious to once again be running across the plains. The warriors seated atop them pulled back the reins, getting the beasts under control with ease. Mirriel had never met a Rohan warrior, but she knew they were horse tamers. She could only assume she was encountering the Rohirrim for the first time.
"Well these are certainly strange days. To have never seen an Elf since my birth, then to come across several in the span of only a few days, that is truly an exception," one said as he pulled off his helmet then leaned over the pummel of his saddle, staring down at the Elves. He was young, especially by the accounts of Elves, but from the look of him, Mirriel guessed he was quite a bit younger than Aragorn. He seemed very curious, but also wary.
Mirriel could only guess that this horse warrior was referring to Legolas and so she pushed her way forward, breaking through the small space between Haldir and Rumil. Her sudden movement caused unease to ripple through the men and Mirriel found a spear pointed at her chest. The sharp tip was only breath away from piercing her skin. Haldir was moved into action, raising his bow with such speed that the men did not even recognize the movement until Haldir's arrow was pointed at the throat of their leader.
"Haldir, do not," Mirriel ordered. "We mean you no harm. You mentioned meeting another Elf," she said, her gaze never leaving the man's face. "When did you encounter him?"
"And you would be?" the man asked, raising a brow at Mirriel. He was not about to impart any information to this Elf until he was certain she was friend. For if she was foe, she would be dead before the hour was out.
Mirriel paused for the briefest of seconds, wondering how to respond. She knew Lorien and those inhabiting it were known little to the outside world. And what was known was of the Witch that inhabited the woods. She did not want to cause further distrust to be placed upon herself and her companions. She needed the aid of these men to determine how long ago they had left Lorien and how far ahead Legolas was.
"I am from the House of Elrond, from Rivendell. I am Mirriel, the daughter of Lord Elrond. I am traveling with my sister and our personal guards."
"The direction from whence you came says you lie," the man stated with a shake of his head toward the east.
Mirriel sighed in exasperation. This man was smarter than he looked. Mirriel, not having had much contact with men, had thought Aragorn was an exception. She was beginning to wonder if maybe she had underestimated their race. She knew she could not lie about the direction from where they had started. It was quite obvious they had crossed the Onodlo, for Arwen was still quite wet, resembling a drowned rat. So she did the only thing she could, she misspoke their original point of origin.
"I said we are from Rivendell, not that we have come from Rivendell. We have traveled down the Great River from Northern Mirkwood, the Realm of the Woodland Elves for I am also the wife of Legolas, Prince of Northern Mirkwood. I believe my husband was the Elf you encountered. He was traveling with a man and a Dwarf, hunting some Orcs who had kidnapped two Hobbits," she responded quickly and then anxiously awaited to see what the man's response would be.
With a flick of his wrist, the spear pointed at Mirriel was raised and she breathed a sigh of relief. She felt more than saw Haldir relax slightly as he released the sharp hold on his bow.
"I am Eomer, son of Eomunt and am called The Third Marshal of Riddermark," the man stated with a nod. Mirriel returned the greeting. "Yes, we know of whom you speak. The Orcs we killed during the night but know nothing of the Hobbits. We sent your friends toward Entwood."
"How many days ago was that?" Mirriel asked, apprehension creeping into her voice.
Eomer quickly took note of her concern and responded to it. For some strange reason she reminded him of his own sister, Eowyn, and Eomer felt himself reacting to her.
"Seven days ago did I set eyes on the three you seek news on. We have not seen them since."
"What news have you regarding Isengard?" she asked. "If we do not encounter them we will be returning to Rivendell and are leery to be traveling so close to Orthanc. My people have found Saruman has betrayed us and is now applying his arts to aid Sauron."
Eomer nodded. "Saruman has taken Orcs into his service, and Wolf- riders and Evil men. It is ill dealing with such a foe: he is a wizard most cunning. He walks here and there, they say, as an old man and cloaked. His spies slip through every net, and his birds of ill omen are aboard in the sky. I must warn you to use caution."
At the mention of Saruman's use of disguising himself, Mirriel felt fear pool in her abdomen. That had been Legolas' concern when they had encountered the old man. Mirriel steeled her legs from buckling and her frame from weaving by sheer will. She could not show any signs of weakness in front of these men. How would she be able to explain her fright? The ways of the Elves were unknown to these people.
"Thank you for the news, Eomer, The Third Marshal of the Riddermark. Sad days have befallen us to hear a once great friend has fallen so low," Mirriel murmured. Very little of what Eomer had informed had not already been known to them. But his willingness to impart such happenings beguiled a trust that she had not expected.
"Now my company must leave you in great haste. We are anxious to be off and return to East Emmet. There have been reports of attacks on villages near the Snowbourn River. Wild men have been flooding from the hills, killing all they encounter." With one last look and a shake of his head over tales coming to life, Eomer slipped his helmet back onto his head. He raised a hand then lowering it quickly, signaling to his men that it was time to move on, before reining his horse to the left and galloping off toward the Onodlo.
"What did he say?" Rumil asked after the riders were out of hearing. The body language of the man had put him at ease slightly, but the words had been foreign to him. Neither he nor Orophim understood much of the language of men and so both had only grasped small bits and pieces of the conversation.
Mirriel turned from the stance she had been holding, watching the riders disappear over a distant hill. "He did not tell us anything we did not know. He warned us to avoid Isengard at all costs, that Saruman has been wandering the landscape, disguising himself as an old man in like appearance to Mithrandir. He must be trying to gain information, which only speaks of his uncertainty. We must be very careful for I think he grows desperate in his attempts. If he fails at Helms Deep, there is no telling what Saruman will do in his haste."
"Which makes you and Arwen more valuable to him," Haldir stated tersely, wondering just what his decision to let Mirriel leave Lorien was going to cost him.
"Only if he turns from Helms Deep in defeat. If he victorious, he will not bother with the likes of Arwen and myself. And by the time he does need one of us to use as a pawn, we shall be long gone from Isengard," Mirriel declared with absolute certainty. Though she had doubts, especially concerning risking Arwen's safety, she could not let them show if she was going to convince Haldir to press on. It was most important that they not stop, not when they were so close to their destination.
At her pronouncement, Rumil and Orophim looked to Haldir, awaiting his decision. Haldir never lifted his eyes from Mirriel's face as he studied her quietly. Finally he sighed. "I cannot believe I have let you talk me into such foolishness," Haldir mumbled.
Mirriel smiled at his grumbling. He reminded her slightly of Gimli and she almost laughed out loud at that thought. She managed to stop herself just in time because Haldir would not consider that a compliment. She took off running, calling over her shoulder, "I bet I can beat you to the Gap of Rohan."
"I think not," Rumil huffed as he charged after her, Orophim on his heels. Arwen and Haldir stood back for a moment.
"Do you think she is right?" Arwen asked curiously. She knew his answer would not effect her decision either way. Her mind was already made up, it had been since she fled Lorien.
"I do not know. Let us hope so," he responded softly. "Darkness is quickly approaching. Let us make for the Gap of Rohan before we are covered in blackness. I wish to make use of what light is left to aid in our attempt to get past Isengard unseen," Haldir stated before leaping into action, grabbing Arwen's arm and dragging her along.
****
Like a gentle whisper on the wind, the patter of many feet assailed the five precisely when Mirriel was deciding if she should just turn to the south and head straight towards Helms Deep or keep traveling west to the Gap of Rohan. The intruders were running swiftly, faster than any Orc known could possibly move, and the footsteps were so light, they could only be heard by Elves. And they were headed right for them. Haldir cast a glance at Mirriel and then nodded to his brothers before they were overtaken, overtaken by an army of Elves.
Orophim took a stance before Arwen while Rumil moved to protect his Princess. Haldir positioned himself in the lead; fully aware he was signaling himself in charge. He knew in doing so, he would be the one to bear the brunt of any displeasure from this foolish expedition.
The legion came to an abrupt halt in front of the five. The leader took a step toward them, the gleam in his eye in no way hiding his anger. He cast a glare at each of the brothers, but his true irritation was directed at only one individual.
"Do not bother hiding the wayward daughter of the House of Elrond," he spat as he caught a glimpse of her hiding behind Orophim's solid frame. "Both of them should be made to pay for their idiocy!"
"Glorfindel," Arwen breathed as she stepped around Orophim, never so happy in all her days to lay eyes upon another Elf.
"Yes, it is I. I have come to return you to your Father, Arwen Undomiel, and let him deal with the likes of you," he answered hotly as the Eldar's eyes bore into hers. Arwen cast her glance to the ground, wishing anyone but Glorfindel had been sent to retrieve her. He was as powerful, if not more so, than her father, and she would not be able to bully him into conceding to her will, for she did not want to return to Imladris.
"And of the rest, what is their purpose in this, Glorfindel?" Mirriel asked as she wove her way between Orophim and Rumil, to stand beside Haldir.
"So we come to you, Amanwen Mirriel," Glorfindel stated as he turned his attention to Elrond's other silly and much more stubborn child. "You are not my concern. Elrond has given you leave to follow whatever path you must. Whether that is to continue on or return from whence you came, that choice is yours alone. I have only been given charge to return Arwen."
Mirriel was clearly stunned by this pronouncement. She had been certain she would be forced back to Imladris at the very least, if not returned to Lorien altogether. "And the others?" Mirriel questioned as she turned her attention to the force standing behind Glorfindel silent and still.
"Elrond has declared an offering of support for the men of Rohan. While I will return with your sister, they will continue to Helms Deep in the hopes of turning the tide of these dark times," the Eldar answered as he continued to watch the eldest daughter of Elrond. He, being the one of few, had always known the truth of her existence, but even now found it impossible to think of this Elf as anyone other than a child of the Last Homely House.
A look of such utter joy cascaded over Mirriel's face. She really had not believed either Elrond or Celeborn would relent and that their jaunt would be folly. And now to find her greatest wish a reality, she was uncertain what to do now. Her mission was complete.
"We shall take a brief rest," Glorfindel declared and with a wave of his hand, the troop scattered out in a small circle. "Then Arwen and I will start our journey back to Imladris. You can give us your decision then." The last statement was directed to Mirriel. It was quite obvious to Glorfindel that she did not know where to turn now.
A short span later, Mirriel was sitting on the ground, her back braced up against Haldirs, her eyes closed as she tried to decide where the path was taking her now. She closed her eyes and it came to her.
She was there once again, inside the tower. The presence was still behind her, but this time, instead of fleeing from it, Mirriel turned around. She staggered back when she realized the presence was none other than Mithrandir.
"Have you not realized your place in this world?" he asked as he walked around her, stepping onto the balcony. "Glance around, Mirriel, and really see."
Mirriel joined him on the balcony. She looked out and saw nothing new. It was still dark and gloomy, the ground still charred from all the hate. The Elves were still there, silently screaming, for Mithrandir's voice drowned out their cries.
"I see nothing," she whispered frantically.
"Do you not yet understand?" Mithrandir seemed to grow twice his size before her eyes. Mirriel clutched the railing, wondering if her eyes were misleading her. She had never before felt fear by Mithrandir's very existence. But now she wanted to run from him. He loomed before her, a powerful presence and said,
"If the lands unite and win this fight, The Earth shall alight, So forth shall spring life."
A blinding light radiated from his form. It quickly burst like one of his tricks of entertainment. When Mirriel's eyes had adjusted to the darkness once again, she found Mithrandir had returned to his former size, an old weary man. "You must wield the True Flame, Mirriel. And you cannot accomplish this hidden away."
Mirriel opened her eyes, staring off into the darkness of the night. This vision was different, so different from the rest. It had not felt like a dream or a premonition. She truly thought Mithrandir had been speaking to her from where ever he might be. He was trying to tell her something. Maybe he was urging her to continue on. And there was only one way to find out.
"Haldir," she called softly. She rose to her knees and crawled around to face him.
"Mirriel, I have decided to take Glorfindel's place, to lead them on to Helms Deep," he said softly as he motioned to the force around them.
"What!" she whispered, taken aback by his declaration. Mirriel had not counted on this, for Haldir had never given any other indication than his disbelief in a positive outcome at Helms Deep. "You, yourself, said it was folly. What are you doing?"
"I do this for my Lord and Lord Elrond, for all of us. But mostly, Mirriel, I do this for myself. I cannot return to Lorien and sit idly by. Too much have I seen and heard on this journey."
"But what of Lothlorien? Who will guard her borders?" she asked in the hopes she could sway his mind. She was not certain what her plans had been when she'd convinced the three brothers to help her pursue Arwen, but this had not been it. She did not want the guilt of Haldir's decision to reside with her, especially if he did not return.
Haldir smiled at her question. "Though I like to think otherwise, Mirriel, I alone did not protect the city. And I will send Orophim and Rumil back. This is not their fight."
"And is it yours?" she asked quietly. She did not know what to make of his sudden change. Was he doing this just for her? She could not live with that.
"It must be some ones," he responded just as softly. "I feel I must do this, Mirriel. Once our people had strong ties to the world around us. It is our chance to reforge those friendships. If this war can be won, not all of the Elves will sail West. Some of us know of no other place than this land and we do not want to leave it. And you also forget, Aragorn is not only a friend of the House of Elrond. Lorien is also loyal to the man who will be King." Haldir paused as he glanced at his brothers, who sat on either side of Arwen, only a short distance away. "But while this is my choice, it is not theirs. They would like nothing more than to return to Lorien. And that is where I feel Rumil and Orophim belong. They will return you home."
"Haldir, my path leads me away from Lorien, most likely forever. I cannot go back."
"What are you implying?" he asked sharply, all the while asking himself why he should feel surprise. He should have realized she would not want to return, especially after being given sanction by Lord Elrond to do what she felt she must.
"I must seek Mithrandir," she replied, touching Haldir's arm in the hopes he would understand the importance of what she was saying. "I cannot explain to you in any way that shall make sense. Still it is the way of things. Mithrandir is the key to the riddle before me. I know this because I have seen things, visions, since he restored my memory. They tell me things I do not fully understand. But the last one, Mithrandir was in it. He told me I must not remain hidden. I must find him, he must explain this too me."
"Are you certain of this?" he asked as he studied her face closely for any hint of uncertainty. Because while Glorfindel had given her leave to choose her own path, Haldir was still duty bound to follow his Lord's wishes. And Lord Celeborn had certainly not.
"I am certain," she stated with such assurance that Haldir believed her.
"All right," he agreed because Haldir knew even if he had forced her to return, neither Rumil nor Orophim would have been able to control her if she had decided to flee. And this journey had only served to convince Haldir that she would do what she felt she needed, even if it meant sacrificing her own life in the process. "But if you are to travel with me, there will be some rules, Mirriel. And you must follow them implicitly. If I do not have your complete compliance, you will not continue."
"What are your rules?" she asked slowly. She knew better than to agreed outright. Haldir would never believe that. And though she did not believe he would leave her behind if she failed to comply, he would make things very difficult for her. And Legolas was going to be angry enough when he discovered her arrival.
"The whole army will have to cloak themselves. I do not want anyone to know you are among us until the time is right. And under no circumstances will you participate in the battle. I must have your oath on this. I want you away from the battle, hidden where I do not care." His eyes narrowed, just waiting for her protests.
"I give my word. I will stay safety hidden, for I have want no part in that. If I thought Gandalf could be found elsewhere, I would avoid this place. My only purpose had been to make sure aid was sent. That has been done." Haldir's eyes widen slightly and his eyebrows lifted in his obvious surprise at her response. Mirriel smiled slightly. "I also have a request," she said softly. Haldir raised one eyebrow at her audacity. He should be demanding things, not she. Mirriel's smile became more broad at his arrogance. She waited for Haldir to comment, and when he did not after a moment, she continued. "I do not want Legolas to know I am there, not if it can be helped."
"And why is that?" Haldir asked, his curiosity getting the better of him. This certainly was not what he expected.
Mirriel sighed in exasperation. "Haldir, war is almost upon him. I do not want his concentration averted for even a moment from what he must do. Legolas can not spend his energy worrying over my safety," she explained, her tone evident she thought he should have understood this from the first.
"All right, Mirriel. I will leave it up to Aragorn to decide what should become of you. Does that satisfy you?" he asked softly, trying to appease her annoyance. Mirriel did not respond, only nodded. "Good." With that pronouncement, Haldir stood and left her sitting on the ground alone. Within moments, he was giving Rumil and Orophim instructions to return to the Lord and Lady of Galdrim with messages from both Mirriel and himself. Haldir's were full of promises to protect Mirriel at all costs; Mirriel's were filled with apologies for not being able to fulfill her parents' wishes.
****
The Rohirrim Fortress was a large imposing structure of solid rock. The sight of it gave Haldir some hope. It looked solid, not easily breached. For the first time he gave consideration to the thought that this battle might be won. He gave the signal and a horn was blown loudly enough to be heard inside the fortress. After a pause, the doors were opened and Haldir led his troop inside.
He spotted Aragorn, Legolas, and the Dwarf rushing from inside the fortress. Along side them were several men, one of whom Haldir assumed to be King Theoden.
"How is this possible?" asked one of the men, older and more stately in appearance. He had the quiet look of nobility mixed with a deep weariness attributed to being responsible for so many.
"I bring word from Elrond of Rivendell. An alliance once existed between Elves and Men. Long ago we fought and died together. We come to honor that allegiance," Haldir answered as a murmur of surprise ran through the crowd.
"Mae govannen, Haldir! (Welcome Haldir)," Aragorn declared as he approached Haldir, clapping him soundly around the shoulder. "You are most welcome"
Haldir was taken aback by the display of affection from Aragorn and it took him a moment to respond. He returned the embrace before pulling away and saying, "We are proud to fight alongside men, once more."
After the moment of sheer stunned silence had worn off, the men of the keep resumed their preparations. The younger of those who had little to do, stayed to observe the newcomers, curious about the Elves, having never encountered one before Legolas arrived with their King.
"Legolas, innas o tegi nin cuar o i taur ment. Im garo gweth baur ped Aragorn, (Legolas, would you be willing to lead my archers to the highest point. I have need to speak to Aragorn.)" Haldir asked, trying to lure Legolas away and keep his promise to Mirriel before he revealed her presence.
Legolas nodded, though clearly disappointed. Haldir could only assume Legolas had been hoping for news of Mirriel. Well, he would have news soon enough. Legolas motioned for the assembly to follow him and only a few remained with Haldir.
"Garo tew an enni? (Have you a message for me?)" Aragorn asked. He was hopeful for a word or two concerning Arwen, even if the information pertained to her leaving Middle Earth.
"Im tegi i tew nedh rhaw quessir (The only message I bring to you is in person)," Haldir responded as he motioned for Mirriel to remove her hood.
Aragorn stared at Mirriel, too speechless for words. He opened his mouth then closed it, unable to believe the sheer stupidity of her actions. He looked to Haldir; unable to comprehend why Haldir would go along with her asinine scheme. Aragorn glanced around, making certain neither Legolas or Gimli were anywhere near. Then he grabbed Mirriel by the arm and dragged her down the narrow passageways through the keep. Mirriel glanced over her shoulder once, but she quickly realized Haldir was in no way going to intervene. Aragorn did not stop until he reached a door, which he opened and pulled Mirriel through. The room was filled with women, ranging from just infants to the very old.
"Man car nauth caro? (What do you think you are doing?)" Aragorn bit out as he whipped her by the arm, forcing her to face him. "Sen alno telien tyalie, Mirriel (This is no game, Mirriel.)"
"Im na echui ned ten, Estel. Ae alan Arwen a anim aderthad gwann rhaw du methed. Caro nin Ada daf an dambeth tulu. Ninglor ten naenni al Arwen. San adertha heltha entulhe a Imladris an Glorfindel (I am quite aware of that, Aragorn. If not for Arwen and myself, we would be claiming your dead bodies when this night is through. How do you think my Father was convinced to send aid? And be thankful you are stuck with myself and not Arwen. It took some convincing to get her to return to Imladris with Glorfindel.)"
Aragorn mumbled something incoherent under his breath as he released Mirriel. "Im al caro ista man pedo. Lle caelal veryien tolo si (I do not even want to know of what you speak. You should not have risked coming here.)"
"Ar mankoi il? Sina na vee sai amin ohta vee ta na lle. (And why not. This is just as much my fight as it is yours.)," she asked incredulously.
Aragorn turned back to her, grabbing Mirriel by both arms, pulling her close to him. "Ar mani en Legolas? Amin quenho amada verne ho na nuin? Umlle il rangw ro durlye na deanam gurthalye sina re? Ar I we nat chebin autho dur nalle varna? (And what of Legolas? Should I tell him his foolish wife is below? Do you not understand he already realizes we will probably die this night? And the only thing that keeps him going is knowing you are safe?)" Aragorn suddenly released her, pushing her away from him. He turned, prepared to leave her.
"Umlle n'quen ho, mauyamin Estel? (Do not tell him, please Aragorn?)" she begged as she grabbed his arm. He stopped but kept his back to her. Mirriel moved closer to him, whispering in his ear, "Umlle n'dur ten cola sira dur umanim n'rangw sina, man umanim mankoi mauyamin yassen lle n'valkamin. N'naamin vee amada vee durlle. (Do not for a moment think I do not understand this, which is why I must plead with you not to reveal my presence. I am not as foolish as you seem to think.)" Her voice tripped over the last sentence and Aragorn finally turned to her. A tear slide down her cheek and he was flooded with guilt.
"San mankoi nalle sinome? (Then why are you here?)" he asked, his voice softer this time as the anger drained from him suddenly. Mirriel had never been foolish, though impulsive.
"Maanim Mithrandir. Nevro? (I seek Mithrandir. Is he here?)" she asked, grabbing hold of the sleeve of Aragorn's tunic in her desperation. Aragorn shook his head slowly. An array of emotions played across Mirriel's face, settling on surprise and disappointment. "Mankoi tultro ten amin manka n'nevro? (Why would he send for me if he would not be here?)" Mirriel murmured, suddenly questioning her own judgment. Had she been misled?
"Tultro ten lle? (He sent for you?)" Aragorn asked, clearly surprised by her response. He had expected her response to be an emotional one, involving Legolas. But this, no this he had not anticipated.
Mirriel briefly told Aragorn of her visions and of Mithrandir's words. Aragorn was not certain if she had misinterpreted the visions and Gandalf's involvement in them. But he did not have the time to question them. He was needed above.
"Rangwlle sina, Mirriel. Eller na mora luume. Ai nooti en' gwaith ma maghlle cael vol. Sinomo, nalle magh vee' farim. Gwaith naron del. King Theoden naron ainat ostho nosse. Ar' Legolas ar; amin nalye n'tyar anidlye sen. (Just understand this, Mirriel. These are dark times. Any number of people could try to use you to gain leverage. Even here, you could be used as a pawn. These people are desperate. King Theoden might do anything to save his kingdom. And Legolas and I would be helpless, unable to stop them.)" Aragorn paused, kissing her gently on the forehead. "Nurtlle simone manke nalle anidsen. Mnka ai' nat' martlle, Legolas n'creos anim. (Stay here where you shall be safe. If anything should happen to you, Legolas would never forgive me.)" Aragorn stepped away from her and turned for the door.
"Estel, (Aragorn)," Mirriel called as he reached the doorway. He paused then turned back to her. Mirriel ran to him as Aragorn opened his arms to her, pulling her tightly against him. "Anidlle, amin toror. (Be safe, my Brother)," she whispered against his cheek.
Aragorn grasped her face between his hands and gently kissed her forehead. "Vestanim (I promise)," he whispered. He turned a second time to leave when his name was called from across the room.
"My Lord Aragorn!" Both Man and Elf turned at the sound of the female's voice. Fair of face was she with long hair of gold. There was an aloofness about her that Mirriel did not understand, but Mirriel assumed it was the way of women. Besides Aragorn's mother, Mirriel had never encountered a female human before. She was slender of frame and probably tall for the race of men, but she only reached Mirriel's chin. As she reached them, the woman cast Mirriel a questioning glance. "We heard a horn. What has happened?"
"Lady Eowyn, an army of Elves have arrived from Rivendell," Aragorn stated with an easy smile. A murmur of astonishment went around the room and relief lined the faces of many. "Now I must go up." Aragorn glanced one last look at Mirriel, squeezed her hand, and whispered, "Stay out of sight," before barring the door behind him.
****
Mirriel was sitting on the ground with her back against the cave wall. The women amid the cave did not know what to make of the lone Elf and truthfully, Mirriel was uncertain what to say to any of them, and so she was alone. But she was glad for the time alone with her thoughts.
A vibration began, so slight Mirriel was certain only she noticed. It shook the cave walls. With time, it became louder. The pounding became uncomfortable against Mirriel's back and so she moved away from the wall. But still she was the only one who heard. Mirriel glanced around her, wondering how they could not hear it, for it made her head ache. Soon enough, others began to notice and the level of fright in the caves rose. Mirriel willed herself to remain calm, to not let the emotions of the others influence her. She had seen and heard enough in these last months to know if this was the end, there was nothing she could do about it. This was what she had walked into voluntarily.
The noise came to a sudden halt as the marching army above them came to a standstill. The silence lasted only seconds. Then the chanting began, an unrecognizable play of words, as they beat their weapons upon the earth in time with their voices. The women around Mirriel began to wail. Except the one Aragorn called Eowyn. She remained as unfazed as Mirriel. If anything she appeared angry.
A loud roar of anger was emitted from the army above and the pounding resumed. The earth moaned under its weight as the Orc army charged the Rohirrim fortress. The war had begun.
Mirriel looked beside her in surprise as Eowyn sat down. "I am Eowyn, niece of King Theoden," she stated, holding a hand out in peace.
Mirriel grasped Eowyn's long, slender hand in her own. "I am Mirriel, daughter of Lord Elrond of Rivendell," Mirriel said, returning the greeting.
Eowyn stared straight ahead for some time as Mirriel watched her curiously. "Have you known Lord Aragorn long?" she finally asked as she returned her gaze to the Elf beside her.
Realization flowed over Mirriel like the fast moving Great River. And she chastised herself for being so naïve. She had always guessed Aragorn was an attractive man among his own kind. Though she could not see it herself, she still believed it to be true. Just for so long she had thought of Aragorn and Arwen as one soul, not two. She had never envisioned another wanting Aragorn for her own.
"I have known Aragorn most of his life, since her mother brought him to Rivendell seeking my father's protection. It has been so long sometimes I forget he is not Elf-kind," Mirriel murmured as she tore her gaze away from Eowyn. She wanted to hate this woman for daring to want what did not belong to her. But Mirriel knew if Arwen and Aragorn were meant to be, this was a test they would both have to pass. And it had nothing to do with Mirriel. She could not fault the woman for loving one of her own.
"He thought you safe away from all this," Eowyn murmured as she swept a hand around the cave, "safe with your people sailing to the undying lands."
Mirriel looked at Eowyn, surprised by her words. "Who? Aragorn?" she asked in confusion. Eowyn nodded. Mirriel could not fathom why Aragorn would speak of her taking ship from the Havens West. She began to wonder if this had been Legolas' assumption as well and why they had come to determine such. "Was this also Legolas' belief?" she asked the woman.
Eowyn shrugged her shoulders as she replied, "This I do not know, though I can only guess they all shared the same belief," she said, referring to the three companions.
Mirriel wanted to give more thought to this, but her head and body just ached. "Please do not think me rude, but I need to close my eyes for a bit. We have traveled far to get here and I feel the need to rest for a spell."
"Of course," Eowyn murmured as she patted Mirriel's hand. She stood and moved around the cave, offering comfort to those in need.
Mirriel's eyes closed on their own accord and she quickly drifted off into her dreams. She saw her father pacing in his study in Imladris, worrying over the absence of both his daughters. Over the mountains, in Lorien, her other father also paced. Her mother lay on the lounge chair and their minds meshed for a moment or was it hours, Mirriel could not say.
A loud blast forced Mirriel from her wanderings and her eyes flew open. There was utter silence among the women as they wondered at the sound. Mirriel stood and walked to the door that barred them in the caves. She touched the door, trying to get a feel for the outside, of what was occurring. There was nothing but fear on the other side. She had to pull her hand away quickly, before the emotion over swept her.
Utter panic broke out in the room. Eowyn did her best to quench the fear, trying to calm the women with talk of victory as she moved through the room.
"What is it?" Eowyn asked Mirriel as she came to stand behind her.
"I do not know," Mirriel replied softly. What little she did know of the outside would best remain with her. These women were frightened enough. They did not need to know that their men on the other side were just as terrified. She thought she heard the order to pull back, but could not be certain. Then a feeling of dread filled her. But she did not have time to investigate the feeling. The sounds of a battering ram could be heard above.
"They've broken through the wall," one woman screamed in hysterics.
"That's impossible," a calmer voice reasoned. "No one can get through the outer wall."
Mirriel glanced at Eowyn, who was watching her intently, waiting for confirmation from the Elf. Mirriel sadly grasped Eowyn's hand and the woman knew she had her answer. Eowyn wretched her hand from Mirriel's and walked briskly to the door. She tried opening it, but found it to be barred from the outside. Apparently Aragorn had questioned the good sense of one of them. Eowyn grew frustrated with her attempts. She drew an axe from a discarded pile of weapons.
"No!" Mirriel commanded as she grabbed the axe from Eowyn. She moved so quickly, gasps arose from the women around her who had not even seen her move until after she had disarmed their Lady. "Think of your people, of these women." Eowyn seemed in a daze, not thinking clearly. Mirriel shook her soundly. "Eowyn, You must gain control. Is there another way out of these caves?" She shook Eowyn again. "Is there?" Eowyn finally responded and nodded. "Good. Help bar the door from the inside. Then you must lead them out of here."
The crying became more insistent as the women realized the meaning behind the Elf's words. Their men were most likely dead- or would be soon, and they would need to flee to escape the same fate.
Mirriel's words broke through the haze Eowyn resided under. She broke into action, calling out orders and forcing the other women to help Mirriel and herself barricade the door. Their attempts would certainly not stop the Uruk-hai from entering, but Mirriel hoped it would at least slow them down. Footsteps could be heard above; shouts to shore up the door.
"Lead them on, Eowyn," Mirriel demanded. "Get them out of here now."
A horn began to blow, causing the women to pause. Horses- the beating of horse hooves, Mirriel heard and then the crash of a door being ripped from its hinges. Screams of terror followed. In the distance Mirriel heard the stampede of many more horse feet. So many she could not count. Orcs did not ride horses, this she knew, as the beasts would not support their weight, their terror too great. And somehow she knew. Mithrandir. He had come.
At the sound of the horn, the women of Rohan had refused to flee. Even though Mirriel thought their actions foolish, she was glad for the company. Mirriel paced, anxious over what was occurring on the battlefield. The silence above them was deafening.
After an eternity of hearing nothing but absolute silence that had Mirriel on edge, the scurrying of feet could be heard coming down the passage. The door was unbarred and someone tried to push it open. But it would not budge. Their blockade had worked. The women gave a sigh of relief to see it hold. The door was pushed against, harder this time, by more than one. In their apparent frustration, what sounded like a body was slammed against it. Then a voice could be heard through the wood.
"Kala, pantlle sina annon sii'!" (Kala, open this door at once!)," an irate voice rang out over the sounds of bodies trying to force the door open.
"Legolas," she breathed. Even in his anger, she had never heard a more beloved sound. "Khillle amin! (Help me!)" When she realized the women were just standing there starring at her, she repeated the commanded in the common Western tongue. Some immediately stepped to her aid. They soon had the door unbarred and just as Mirriel stepped back, it swung open. On the other side stood Legolas. With a cry, Mirriel launched herself at him. He caught her in his arms, burying his face in her hair.
When Aragorn had told him of her presence, that she was in the caves below, he had been filled with such a panic. He had turned on his heels, running into the keep and down the narrow winding path that led to the caves below. He had to see for his own eyes that she was all right. When he had found the doors barred, he had been filled with such rage he had not even noticed Aragorn, Gimli, or Gandalf behind him. He'd only thought of getting her out. He had braced his shoulder against the door, but it would not move. Aragorn had pushed him out of the way and he and Gimli had taken his place. When Legolas realized they were having no luck, he'd yelled out to her, demanding her compliance. He wanted no barriers between them so he could beat her properly.
All thoughts of anger evaporated once she was in his arms. He was just thankful she was safe. He was so lost in the feel and scent of her; he did not notice any of the other women in the room, or the Rohirrim men who had followed behind him into the cave.
"Kala," he whispered against her neck.
She pulled back from him a fraction, looking deep into his eyes. "Nalle varna, (You are safe,)" she whispered.
"Uma, naamin varna, (Yes, I am safe,)" he whispered as his lips descended to hers.
Eowyn, watching the embrace the two Elves shared, was stunned when they kissed. Aragorn, whose eyes had professed such love for this Elf, looked on with a smile. Gimli and Gandalf also seemed happy to be observing the reunion. Eowyn did not understand how these peoples could be so different from her own kind. And could Aragorn, having spent much of his time among the Elves, be that far removed from his own human feelings.
Mirriel pulled away from Legolas, remembering they were not alone. She spotted Aragorn, Gimli, and Gandalf standing not far behind him, just inside the doorway.
"You are bleeding," she admonished as she rushed to Gimli and knelt beside him.
"It is nothing, Mistress Mirriel, only a scratch," Gimli murmured as he moved his hand to his head, preventing her from examining it.
"Gimli, stop being so stubborn," she retorted as she grabbed the offending arm out of the way to get a better view of his wound. It was hardly a scratch, but neither was it life threatening. And she knew from experience that Gimli would not let her tend to it. "Have it looked at soon," she murmured as she looked up at him. "It is good to see you, my friend."
Gimli made a sound that sounded suspiciously like a choked back sob before he turned his face to the side, mumbling something about the foolishness of Elves. Mirriel smiled as she turned to Aragorn.
"And you, my brother, how do you fair?"
"As well as can be expected," Aragorn replied with a grin as he kissed her cheek.
"It is good to see you, Mirriel," Gandalf said as he placed a hand on her shoulder. Mirriel pivoted on her toes, facing him. She had much she needed to ask him. "We have much to speak of, do we not?" he asked, watching her closer for a sign of understanding. Mirriel nodded slowly. "Good. I must rest briefly and then we shall speak"
Mirriel nodded her head in agreement, even though she did not want to wait. She was anxious to find out what answers Gandalf had in his possession. But she also understood his need to rest. They probably all needed to do so. It was then Mirriel realized for the first time that Haldir was not among them. "Where is Haldir?" she asked as her heart sank in her chest. Before the words had even left her lips, she knew. Her thoughts were confirmed by the looks of those around her. "No!" she exclaimed as she her legs buckled from under her. Legolas swiftly caught her in his arms, pulling her against him. "No," she whispered brokenly. "He came only because of me, for no other reason than my own stubbornness."
"Nonsense!" Gandalf stated harshly. "Haldir came because he was needed. Now enough of this. Many lost their lives today. We must not despair, for this is not the end. Things are far from over and we have much we must concentrate on."
Mirriel wiped the tears from her eyes as she nodded, though she did not pull from Legolas' embrace. She would not have been able to remain standing upright, for though her head heard Gandalf's words and understood them, her heart did not.
This can't last forever
Time won't make things better
I feel so alone
Can't help ourselves
And no one knows
That this is worthless to me so
What have we done
We're in a war that can't be won
This can't be real
I don't know what to feel now
[Chorus:]
So am I still waiting
For this world to stop hating
Can't find a good reason
Can't find hope to believe in
So am I still waiting
For this world to stop hating
Can't find a good reason
For this world to BELIEVE
Sum 41- "Still Waiting"
Helms Deep
The journey to the Gap of Rohan was one filled with anxiety. Mirriel had begun to loose track of the days and was not even sure if there was any hope of making it to Helms Deep in time. She did not know how she would handle discovering the massacred bodies of all inside the fortress, knowing if only they had arrived there sooner, they might have been of some help. And no matter how much she tried to push these disturbing thoughts down, they kept popping right back up into her consciousness.
The company was several hundred paces from the Gap of Rohan- it could be seen as a speck in the distance- when the beating of horse hoofs could be heard. Haldir glanced around quickly, looking for somewhere to guide the party for coverage, but they were in the open with nothing in sight. The three brothers quickly surrounded the sisters as a large band of riders encircled them, swords drawn. Haldir notched an arrow, readying his bow to take aim. As he moved to raise his arm, Mirriel placed her hand in the crook of his elbow, gently lowering his arm back to where the arrow pointed down to the ground. She quickly realized they were surrounded by a band of men and no matter what they did to prevent a slaughter, they would be dead if these men decided to act. It was best not to antagonize them and try to use reason instead.
The horses pranced and snorted, anxious to once again be running across the plains. The warriors seated atop them pulled back the reins, getting the beasts under control with ease. Mirriel had never met a Rohan warrior, but she knew they were horse tamers. She could only assume she was encountering the Rohirrim for the first time.
"Well these are certainly strange days. To have never seen an Elf since my birth, then to come across several in the span of only a few days, that is truly an exception," one said as he pulled off his helmet then leaned over the pummel of his saddle, staring down at the Elves. He was young, especially by the accounts of Elves, but from the look of him, Mirriel guessed he was quite a bit younger than Aragorn. He seemed very curious, but also wary.
Mirriel could only guess that this horse warrior was referring to Legolas and so she pushed her way forward, breaking through the small space between Haldir and Rumil. Her sudden movement caused unease to ripple through the men and Mirriel found a spear pointed at her chest. The sharp tip was only breath away from piercing her skin. Haldir was moved into action, raising his bow with such speed that the men did not even recognize the movement until Haldir's arrow was pointed at the throat of their leader.
"Haldir, do not," Mirriel ordered. "We mean you no harm. You mentioned meeting another Elf," she said, her gaze never leaving the man's face. "When did you encounter him?"
"And you would be?" the man asked, raising a brow at Mirriel. He was not about to impart any information to this Elf until he was certain she was friend. For if she was foe, she would be dead before the hour was out.
Mirriel paused for the briefest of seconds, wondering how to respond. She knew Lorien and those inhabiting it were known little to the outside world. And what was known was of the Witch that inhabited the woods. She did not want to cause further distrust to be placed upon herself and her companions. She needed the aid of these men to determine how long ago they had left Lorien and how far ahead Legolas was.
"I am from the House of Elrond, from Rivendell. I am Mirriel, the daughter of Lord Elrond. I am traveling with my sister and our personal guards."
"The direction from whence you came says you lie," the man stated with a shake of his head toward the east.
Mirriel sighed in exasperation. This man was smarter than he looked. Mirriel, not having had much contact with men, had thought Aragorn was an exception. She was beginning to wonder if maybe she had underestimated their race. She knew she could not lie about the direction from where they had started. It was quite obvious they had crossed the Onodlo, for Arwen was still quite wet, resembling a drowned rat. So she did the only thing she could, she misspoke their original point of origin.
"I said we are from Rivendell, not that we have come from Rivendell. We have traveled down the Great River from Northern Mirkwood, the Realm of the Woodland Elves for I am also the wife of Legolas, Prince of Northern Mirkwood. I believe my husband was the Elf you encountered. He was traveling with a man and a Dwarf, hunting some Orcs who had kidnapped two Hobbits," she responded quickly and then anxiously awaited to see what the man's response would be.
With a flick of his wrist, the spear pointed at Mirriel was raised and she breathed a sigh of relief. She felt more than saw Haldir relax slightly as he released the sharp hold on his bow.
"I am Eomer, son of Eomunt and am called The Third Marshal of Riddermark," the man stated with a nod. Mirriel returned the greeting. "Yes, we know of whom you speak. The Orcs we killed during the night but know nothing of the Hobbits. We sent your friends toward Entwood."
"How many days ago was that?" Mirriel asked, apprehension creeping into her voice.
Eomer quickly took note of her concern and responded to it. For some strange reason she reminded him of his own sister, Eowyn, and Eomer felt himself reacting to her.
"Seven days ago did I set eyes on the three you seek news on. We have not seen them since."
"What news have you regarding Isengard?" she asked. "If we do not encounter them we will be returning to Rivendell and are leery to be traveling so close to Orthanc. My people have found Saruman has betrayed us and is now applying his arts to aid Sauron."
Eomer nodded. "Saruman has taken Orcs into his service, and Wolf- riders and Evil men. It is ill dealing with such a foe: he is a wizard most cunning. He walks here and there, they say, as an old man and cloaked. His spies slip through every net, and his birds of ill omen are aboard in the sky. I must warn you to use caution."
At the mention of Saruman's use of disguising himself, Mirriel felt fear pool in her abdomen. That had been Legolas' concern when they had encountered the old man. Mirriel steeled her legs from buckling and her frame from weaving by sheer will. She could not show any signs of weakness in front of these men. How would she be able to explain her fright? The ways of the Elves were unknown to these people.
"Thank you for the news, Eomer, The Third Marshal of the Riddermark. Sad days have befallen us to hear a once great friend has fallen so low," Mirriel murmured. Very little of what Eomer had informed had not already been known to them. But his willingness to impart such happenings beguiled a trust that she had not expected.
"Now my company must leave you in great haste. We are anxious to be off and return to East Emmet. There have been reports of attacks on villages near the Snowbourn River. Wild men have been flooding from the hills, killing all they encounter." With one last look and a shake of his head over tales coming to life, Eomer slipped his helmet back onto his head. He raised a hand then lowering it quickly, signaling to his men that it was time to move on, before reining his horse to the left and galloping off toward the Onodlo.
"What did he say?" Rumil asked after the riders were out of hearing. The body language of the man had put him at ease slightly, but the words had been foreign to him. Neither he nor Orophim understood much of the language of men and so both had only grasped small bits and pieces of the conversation.
Mirriel turned from the stance she had been holding, watching the riders disappear over a distant hill. "He did not tell us anything we did not know. He warned us to avoid Isengard at all costs, that Saruman has been wandering the landscape, disguising himself as an old man in like appearance to Mithrandir. He must be trying to gain information, which only speaks of his uncertainty. We must be very careful for I think he grows desperate in his attempts. If he fails at Helms Deep, there is no telling what Saruman will do in his haste."
"Which makes you and Arwen more valuable to him," Haldir stated tersely, wondering just what his decision to let Mirriel leave Lorien was going to cost him.
"Only if he turns from Helms Deep in defeat. If he victorious, he will not bother with the likes of Arwen and myself. And by the time he does need one of us to use as a pawn, we shall be long gone from Isengard," Mirriel declared with absolute certainty. Though she had doubts, especially concerning risking Arwen's safety, she could not let them show if she was going to convince Haldir to press on. It was most important that they not stop, not when they were so close to their destination.
At her pronouncement, Rumil and Orophim looked to Haldir, awaiting his decision. Haldir never lifted his eyes from Mirriel's face as he studied her quietly. Finally he sighed. "I cannot believe I have let you talk me into such foolishness," Haldir mumbled.
Mirriel smiled at his grumbling. He reminded her slightly of Gimli and she almost laughed out loud at that thought. She managed to stop herself just in time because Haldir would not consider that a compliment. She took off running, calling over her shoulder, "I bet I can beat you to the Gap of Rohan."
"I think not," Rumil huffed as he charged after her, Orophim on his heels. Arwen and Haldir stood back for a moment.
"Do you think she is right?" Arwen asked curiously. She knew his answer would not effect her decision either way. Her mind was already made up, it had been since she fled Lorien.
"I do not know. Let us hope so," he responded softly. "Darkness is quickly approaching. Let us make for the Gap of Rohan before we are covered in blackness. I wish to make use of what light is left to aid in our attempt to get past Isengard unseen," Haldir stated before leaping into action, grabbing Arwen's arm and dragging her along.
****
Like a gentle whisper on the wind, the patter of many feet assailed the five precisely when Mirriel was deciding if she should just turn to the south and head straight towards Helms Deep or keep traveling west to the Gap of Rohan. The intruders were running swiftly, faster than any Orc known could possibly move, and the footsteps were so light, they could only be heard by Elves. And they were headed right for them. Haldir cast a glance at Mirriel and then nodded to his brothers before they were overtaken, overtaken by an army of Elves.
Orophim took a stance before Arwen while Rumil moved to protect his Princess. Haldir positioned himself in the lead; fully aware he was signaling himself in charge. He knew in doing so, he would be the one to bear the brunt of any displeasure from this foolish expedition.
The legion came to an abrupt halt in front of the five. The leader took a step toward them, the gleam in his eye in no way hiding his anger. He cast a glare at each of the brothers, but his true irritation was directed at only one individual.
"Do not bother hiding the wayward daughter of the House of Elrond," he spat as he caught a glimpse of her hiding behind Orophim's solid frame. "Both of them should be made to pay for their idiocy!"
"Glorfindel," Arwen breathed as she stepped around Orophim, never so happy in all her days to lay eyes upon another Elf.
"Yes, it is I. I have come to return you to your Father, Arwen Undomiel, and let him deal with the likes of you," he answered hotly as the Eldar's eyes bore into hers. Arwen cast her glance to the ground, wishing anyone but Glorfindel had been sent to retrieve her. He was as powerful, if not more so, than her father, and she would not be able to bully him into conceding to her will, for she did not want to return to Imladris.
"And of the rest, what is their purpose in this, Glorfindel?" Mirriel asked as she wove her way between Orophim and Rumil, to stand beside Haldir.
"So we come to you, Amanwen Mirriel," Glorfindel stated as he turned his attention to Elrond's other silly and much more stubborn child. "You are not my concern. Elrond has given you leave to follow whatever path you must. Whether that is to continue on or return from whence you came, that choice is yours alone. I have only been given charge to return Arwen."
Mirriel was clearly stunned by this pronouncement. She had been certain she would be forced back to Imladris at the very least, if not returned to Lorien altogether. "And the others?" Mirriel questioned as she turned her attention to the force standing behind Glorfindel silent and still.
"Elrond has declared an offering of support for the men of Rohan. While I will return with your sister, they will continue to Helms Deep in the hopes of turning the tide of these dark times," the Eldar answered as he continued to watch the eldest daughter of Elrond. He, being the one of few, had always known the truth of her existence, but even now found it impossible to think of this Elf as anyone other than a child of the Last Homely House.
A look of such utter joy cascaded over Mirriel's face. She really had not believed either Elrond or Celeborn would relent and that their jaunt would be folly. And now to find her greatest wish a reality, she was uncertain what to do now. Her mission was complete.
"We shall take a brief rest," Glorfindel declared and with a wave of his hand, the troop scattered out in a small circle. "Then Arwen and I will start our journey back to Imladris. You can give us your decision then." The last statement was directed to Mirriel. It was quite obvious to Glorfindel that she did not know where to turn now.
A short span later, Mirriel was sitting on the ground, her back braced up against Haldirs, her eyes closed as she tried to decide where the path was taking her now. She closed her eyes and it came to her.
She was there once again, inside the tower. The presence was still behind her, but this time, instead of fleeing from it, Mirriel turned around. She staggered back when she realized the presence was none other than Mithrandir.
"Have you not realized your place in this world?" he asked as he walked around her, stepping onto the balcony. "Glance around, Mirriel, and really see."
Mirriel joined him on the balcony. She looked out and saw nothing new. It was still dark and gloomy, the ground still charred from all the hate. The Elves were still there, silently screaming, for Mithrandir's voice drowned out their cries.
"I see nothing," she whispered frantically.
"Do you not yet understand?" Mithrandir seemed to grow twice his size before her eyes. Mirriel clutched the railing, wondering if her eyes were misleading her. She had never before felt fear by Mithrandir's very existence. But now she wanted to run from him. He loomed before her, a powerful presence and said,
"If the lands unite and win this fight, The Earth shall alight, So forth shall spring life."
A blinding light radiated from his form. It quickly burst like one of his tricks of entertainment. When Mirriel's eyes had adjusted to the darkness once again, she found Mithrandir had returned to his former size, an old weary man. "You must wield the True Flame, Mirriel. And you cannot accomplish this hidden away."
Mirriel opened her eyes, staring off into the darkness of the night. This vision was different, so different from the rest. It had not felt like a dream or a premonition. She truly thought Mithrandir had been speaking to her from where ever he might be. He was trying to tell her something. Maybe he was urging her to continue on. And there was only one way to find out.
"Haldir," she called softly. She rose to her knees and crawled around to face him.
"Mirriel, I have decided to take Glorfindel's place, to lead them on to Helms Deep," he said softly as he motioned to the force around them.
"What!" she whispered, taken aback by his declaration. Mirriel had not counted on this, for Haldir had never given any other indication than his disbelief in a positive outcome at Helms Deep. "You, yourself, said it was folly. What are you doing?"
"I do this for my Lord and Lord Elrond, for all of us. But mostly, Mirriel, I do this for myself. I cannot return to Lorien and sit idly by. Too much have I seen and heard on this journey."
"But what of Lothlorien? Who will guard her borders?" she asked in the hopes she could sway his mind. She was not certain what her plans had been when she'd convinced the three brothers to help her pursue Arwen, but this had not been it. She did not want the guilt of Haldir's decision to reside with her, especially if he did not return.
Haldir smiled at her question. "Though I like to think otherwise, Mirriel, I alone did not protect the city. And I will send Orophim and Rumil back. This is not their fight."
"And is it yours?" she asked quietly. She did not know what to make of his sudden change. Was he doing this just for her? She could not live with that.
"It must be some ones," he responded just as softly. "I feel I must do this, Mirriel. Once our people had strong ties to the world around us. It is our chance to reforge those friendships. If this war can be won, not all of the Elves will sail West. Some of us know of no other place than this land and we do not want to leave it. And you also forget, Aragorn is not only a friend of the House of Elrond. Lorien is also loyal to the man who will be King." Haldir paused as he glanced at his brothers, who sat on either side of Arwen, only a short distance away. "But while this is my choice, it is not theirs. They would like nothing more than to return to Lorien. And that is where I feel Rumil and Orophim belong. They will return you home."
"Haldir, my path leads me away from Lorien, most likely forever. I cannot go back."
"What are you implying?" he asked sharply, all the while asking himself why he should feel surprise. He should have realized she would not want to return, especially after being given sanction by Lord Elrond to do what she felt she must.
"I must seek Mithrandir," she replied, touching Haldir's arm in the hopes he would understand the importance of what she was saying. "I cannot explain to you in any way that shall make sense. Still it is the way of things. Mithrandir is the key to the riddle before me. I know this because I have seen things, visions, since he restored my memory. They tell me things I do not fully understand. But the last one, Mithrandir was in it. He told me I must not remain hidden. I must find him, he must explain this too me."
"Are you certain of this?" he asked as he studied her face closely for any hint of uncertainty. Because while Glorfindel had given her leave to choose her own path, Haldir was still duty bound to follow his Lord's wishes. And Lord Celeborn had certainly not.
"I am certain," she stated with such assurance that Haldir believed her.
"All right," he agreed because Haldir knew even if he had forced her to return, neither Rumil nor Orophim would have been able to control her if she had decided to flee. And this journey had only served to convince Haldir that she would do what she felt she needed, even if it meant sacrificing her own life in the process. "But if you are to travel with me, there will be some rules, Mirriel. And you must follow them implicitly. If I do not have your complete compliance, you will not continue."
"What are your rules?" she asked slowly. She knew better than to agreed outright. Haldir would never believe that. And though she did not believe he would leave her behind if she failed to comply, he would make things very difficult for her. And Legolas was going to be angry enough when he discovered her arrival.
"The whole army will have to cloak themselves. I do not want anyone to know you are among us until the time is right. And under no circumstances will you participate in the battle. I must have your oath on this. I want you away from the battle, hidden where I do not care." His eyes narrowed, just waiting for her protests.
"I give my word. I will stay safety hidden, for I have want no part in that. If I thought Gandalf could be found elsewhere, I would avoid this place. My only purpose had been to make sure aid was sent. That has been done." Haldir's eyes widen slightly and his eyebrows lifted in his obvious surprise at her response. Mirriel smiled slightly. "I also have a request," she said softly. Haldir raised one eyebrow at her audacity. He should be demanding things, not she. Mirriel's smile became more broad at his arrogance. She waited for Haldir to comment, and when he did not after a moment, she continued. "I do not want Legolas to know I am there, not if it can be helped."
"And why is that?" Haldir asked, his curiosity getting the better of him. This certainly was not what he expected.
Mirriel sighed in exasperation. "Haldir, war is almost upon him. I do not want his concentration averted for even a moment from what he must do. Legolas can not spend his energy worrying over my safety," she explained, her tone evident she thought he should have understood this from the first.
"All right, Mirriel. I will leave it up to Aragorn to decide what should become of you. Does that satisfy you?" he asked softly, trying to appease her annoyance. Mirriel did not respond, only nodded. "Good." With that pronouncement, Haldir stood and left her sitting on the ground alone. Within moments, he was giving Rumil and Orophim instructions to return to the Lord and Lady of Galdrim with messages from both Mirriel and himself. Haldir's were full of promises to protect Mirriel at all costs; Mirriel's were filled with apologies for not being able to fulfill her parents' wishes.
****
The Rohirrim Fortress was a large imposing structure of solid rock. The sight of it gave Haldir some hope. It looked solid, not easily breached. For the first time he gave consideration to the thought that this battle might be won. He gave the signal and a horn was blown loudly enough to be heard inside the fortress. After a pause, the doors were opened and Haldir led his troop inside.
He spotted Aragorn, Legolas, and the Dwarf rushing from inside the fortress. Along side them were several men, one of whom Haldir assumed to be King Theoden.
"How is this possible?" asked one of the men, older and more stately in appearance. He had the quiet look of nobility mixed with a deep weariness attributed to being responsible for so many.
"I bring word from Elrond of Rivendell. An alliance once existed between Elves and Men. Long ago we fought and died together. We come to honor that allegiance," Haldir answered as a murmur of surprise ran through the crowd.
"Mae govannen, Haldir! (Welcome Haldir)," Aragorn declared as he approached Haldir, clapping him soundly around the shoulder. "You are most welcome"
Haldir was taken aback by the display of affection from Aragorn and it took him a moment to respond. He returned the embrace before pulling away and saying, "We are proud to fight alongside men, once more."
After the moment of sheer stunned silence had worn off, the men of the keep resumed their preparations. The younger of those who had little to do, stayed to observe the newcomers, curious about the Elves, having never encountered one before Legolas arrived with their King.
"Legolas, innas o tegi nin cuar o i taur ment. Im garo gweth baur ped Aragorn, (Legolas, would you be willing to lead my archers to the highest point. I have need to speak to Aragorn.)" Haldir asked, trying to lure Legolas away and keep his promise to Mirriel before he revealed her presence.
Legolas nodded, though clearly disappointed. Haldir could only assume Legolas had been hoping for news of Mirriel. Well, he would have news soon enough. Legolas motioned for the assembly to follow him and only a few remained with Haldir.
"Garo tew an enni? (Have you a message for me?)" Aragorn asked. He was hopeful for a word or two concerning Arwen, even if the information pertained to her leaving Middle Earth.
"Im tegi i tew nedh rhaw quessir (The only message I bring to you is in person)," Haldir responded as he motioned for Mirriel to remove her hood.
Aragorn stared at Mirriel, too speechless for words. He opened his mouth then closed it, unable to believe the sheer stupidity of her actions. He looked to Haldir; unable to comprehend why Haldir would go along with her asinine scheme. Aragorn glanced around, making certain neither Legolas or Gimli were anywhere near. Then he grabbed Mirriel by the arm and dragged her down the narrow passageways through the keep. Mirriel glanced over her shoulder once, but she quickly realized Haldir was in no way going to intervene. Aragorn did not stop until he reached a door, which he opened and pulled Mirriel through. The room was filled with women, ranging from just infants to the very old.
"Man car nauth caro? (What do you think you are doing?)" Aragorn bit out as he whipped her by the arm, forcing her to face him. "Sen alno telien tyalie, Mirriel (This is no game, Mirriel.)"
"Im na echui ned ten, Estel. Ae alan Arwen a anim aderthad gwann rhaw du methed. Caro nin Ada daf an dambeth tulu. Ninglor ten naenni al Arwen. San adertha heltha entulhe a Imladris an Glorfindel (I am quite aware of that, Aragorn. If not for Arwen and myself, we would be claiming your dead bodies when this night is through. How do you think my Father was convinced to send aid? And be thankful you are stuck with myself and not Arwen. It took some convincing to get her to return to Imladris with Glorfindel.)"
Aragorn mumbled something incoherent under his breath as he released Mirriel. "Im al caro ista man pedo. Lle caelal veryien tolo si (I do not even want to know of what you speak. You should not have risked coming here.)"
"Ar mankoi il? Sina na vee sai amin ohta vee ta na lle. (And why not. This is just as much my fight as it is yours.)," she asked incredulously.
Aragorn turned back to her, grabbing Mirriel by both arms, pulling her close to him. "Ar mani en Legolas? Amin quenho amada verne ho na nuin? Umlle il rangw ro durlye na deanam gurthalye sina re? Ar I we nat chebin autho dur nalle varna? (And what of Legolas? Should I tell him his foolish wife is below? Do you not understand he already realizes we will probably die this night? And the only thing that keeps him going is knowing you are safe?)" Aragorn suddenly released her, pushing her away from him. He turned, prepared to leave her.
"Umlle n'quen ho, mauyamin Estel? (Do not tell him, please Aragorn?)" she begged as she grabbed his arm. He stopped but kept his back to her. Mirriel moved closer to him, whispering in his ear, "Umlle n'dur ten cola sira dur umanim n'rangw sina, man umanim mankoi mauyamin yassen lle n'valkamin. N'naamin vee amada vee durlle. (Do not for a moment think I do not understand this, which is why I must plead with you not to reveal my presence. I am not as foolish as you seem to think.)" Her voice tripped over the last sentence and Aragorn finally turned to her. A tear slide down her cheek and he was flooded with guilt.
"San mankoi nalle sinome? (Then why are you here?)" he asked, his voice softer this time as the anger drained from him suddenly. Mirriel had never been foolish, though impulsive.
"Maanim Mithrandir. Nevro? (I seek Mithrandir. Is he here?)" she asked, grabbing hold of the sleeve of Aragorn's tunic in her desperation. Aragorn shook his head slowly. An array of emotions played across Mirriel's face, settling on surprise and disappointment. "Mankoi tultro ten amin manka n'nevro? (Why would he send for me if he would not be here?)" Mirriel murmured, suddenly questioning her own judgment. Had she been misled?
"Tultro ten lle? (He sent for you?)" Aragorn asked, clearly surprised by her response. He had expected her response to be an emotional one, involving Legolas. But this, no this he had not anticipated.
Mirriel briefly told Aragorn of her visions and of Mithrandir's words. Aragorn was not certain if she had misinterpreted the visions and Gandalf's involvement in them. But he did not have the time to question them. He was needed above.
"Rangwlle sina, Mirriel. Eller na mora luume. Ai nooti en' gwaith ma maghlle cael vol. Sinomo, nalle magh vee' farim. Gwaith naron del. King Theoden naron ainat ostho nosse. Ar' Legolas ar; amin nalye n'tyar anidlye sen. (Just understand this, Mirriel. These are dark times. Any number of people could try to use you to gain leverage. Even here, you could be used as a pawn. These people are desperate. King Theoden might do anything to save his kingdom. And Legolas and I would be helpless, unable to stop them.)" Aragorn paused, kissing her gently on the forehead. "Nurtlle simone manke nalle anidsen. Mnka ai' nat' martlle, Legolas n'creos anim. (Stay here where you shall be safe. If anything should happen to you, Legolas would never forgive me.)" Aragorn stepped away from her and turned for the door.
"Estel, (Aragorn)," Mirriel called as he reached the doorway. He paused then turned back to her. Mirriel ran to him as Aragorn opened his arms to her, pulling her tightly against him. "Anidlle, amin toror. (Be safe, my Brother)," she whispered against his cheek.
Aragorn grasped her face between his hands and gently kissed her forehead. "Vestanim (I promise)," he whispered. He turned a second time to leave when his name was called from across the room.
"My Lord Aragorn!" Both Man and Elf turned at the sound of the female's voice. Fair of face was she with long hair of gold. There was an aloofness about her that Mirriel did not understand, but Mirriel assumed it was the way of women. Besides Aragorn's mother, Mirriel had never encountered a female human before. She was slender of frame and probably tall for the race of men, but she only reached Mirriel's chin. As she reached them, the woman cast Mirriel a questioning glance. "We heard a horn. What has happened?"
"Lady Eowyn, an army of Elves have arrived from Rivendell," Aragorn stated with an easy smile. A murmur of astonishment went around the room and relief lined the faces of many. "Now I must go up." Aragorn glanced one last look at Mirriel, squeezed her hand, and whispered, "Stay out of sight," before barring the door behind him.
****
Mirriel was sitting on the ground with her back against the cave wall. The women amid the cave did not know what to make of the lone Elf and truthfully, Mirriel was uncertain what to say to any of them, and so she was alone. But she was glad for the time alone with her thoughts.
A vibration began, so slight Mirriel was certain only she noticed. It shook the cave walls. With time, it became louder. The pounding became uncomfortable against Mirriel's back and so she moved away from the wall. But still she was the only one who heard. Mirriel glanced around her, wondering how they could not hear it, for it made her head ache. Soon enough, others began to notice and the level of fright in the caves rose. Mirriel willed herself to remain calm, to not let the emotions of the others influence her. She had seen and heard enough in these last months to know if this was the end, there was nothing she could do about it. This was what she had walked into voluntarily.
The noise came to a sudden halt as the marching army above them came to a standstill. The silence lasted only seconds. Then the chanting began, an unrecognizable play of words, as they beat their weapons upon the earth in time with their voices. The women around Mirriel began to wail. Except the one Aragorn called Eowyn. She remained as unfazed as Mirriel. If anything she appeared angry.
A loud roar of anger was emitted from the army above and the pounding resumed. The earth moaned under its weight as the Orc army charged the Rohirrim fortress. The war had begun.
Mirriel looked beside her in surprise as Eowyn sat down. "I am Eowyn, niece of King Theoden," she stated, holding a hand out in peace.
Mirriel grasped Eowyn's long, slender hand in her own. "I am Mirriel, daughter of Lord Elrond of Rivendell," Mirriel said, returning the greeting.
Eowyn stared straight ahead for some time as Mirriel watched her curiously. "Have you known Lord Aragorn long?" she finally asked as she returned her gaze to the Elf beside her.
Realization flowed over Mirriel like the fast moving Great River. And she chastised herself for being so naïve. She had always guessed Aragorn was an attractive man among his own kind. Though she could not see it herself, she still believed it to be true. Just for so long she had thought of Aragorn and Arwen as one soul, not two. She had never envisioned another wanting Aragorn for her own.
"I have known Aragorn most of his life, since her mother brought him to Rivendell seeking my father's protection. It has been so long sometimes I forget he is not Elf-kind," Mirriel murmured as she tore her gaze away from Eowyn. She wanted to hate this woman for daring to want what did not belong to her. But Mirriel knew if Arwen and Aragorn were meant to be, this was a test they would both have to pass. And it had nothing to do with Mirriel. She could not fault the woman for loving one of her own.
"He thought you safe away from all this," Eowyn murmured as she swept a hand around the cave, "safe with your people sailing to the undying lands."
Mirriel looked at Eowyn, surprised by her words. "Who? Aragorn?" she asked in confusion. Eowyn nodded. Mirriel could not fathom why Aragorn would speak of her taking ship from the Havens West. She began to wonder if this had been Legolas' assumption as well and why they had come to determine such. "Was this also Legolas' belief?" she asked the woman.
Eowyn shrugged her shoulders as she replied, "This I do not know, though I can only guess they all shared the same belief," she said, referring to the three companions.
Mirriel wanted to give more thought to this, but her head and body just ached. "Please do not think me rude, but I need to close my eyes for a bit. We have traveled far to get here and I feel the need to rest for a spell."
"Of course," Eowyn murmured as she patted Mirriel's hand. She stood and moved around the cave, offering comfort to those in need.
Mirriel's eyes closed on their own accord and she quickly drifted off into her dreams. She saw her father pacing in his study in Imladris, worrying over the absence of both his daughters. Over the mountains, in Lorien, her other father also paced. Her mother lay on the lounge chair and their minds meshed for a moment or was it hours, Mirriel could not say.
A loud blast forced Mirriel from her wanderings and her eyes flew open. There was utter silence among the women as they wondered at the sound. Mirriel stood and walked to the door that barred them in the caves. She touched the door, trying to get a feel for the outside, of what was occurring. There was nothing but fear on the other side. She had to pull her hand away quickly, before the emotion over swept her.
Utter panic broke out in the room. Eowyn did her best to quench the fear, trying to calm the women with talk of victory as she moved through the room.
"What is it?" Eowyn asked Mirriel as she came to stand behind her.
"I do not know," Mirriel replied softly. What little she did know of the outside would best remain with her. These women were frightened enough. They did not need to know that their men on the other side were just as terrified. She thought she heard the order to pull back, but could not be certain. Then a feeling of dread filled her. But she did not have time to investigate the feeling. The sounds of a battering ram could be heard above.
"They've broken through the wall," one woman screamed in hysterics.
"That's impossible," a calmer voice reasoned. "No one can get through the outer wall."
Mirriel glanced at Eowyn, who was watching her intently, waiting for confirmation from the Elf. Mirriel sadly grasped Eowyn's hand and the woman knew she had her answer. Eowyn wretched her hand from Mirriel's and walked briskly to the door. She tried opening it, but found it to be barred from the outside. Apparently Aragorn had questioned the good sense of one of them. Eowyn grew frustrated with her attempts. She drew an axe from a discarded pile of weapons.
"No!" Mirriel commanded as she grabbed the axe from Eowyn. She moved so quickly, gasps arose from the women around her who had not even seen her move until after she had disarmed their Lady. "Think of your people, of these women." Eowyn seemed in a daze, not thinking clearly. Mirriel shook her soundly. "Eowyn, You must gain control. Is there another way out of these caves?" She shook Eowyn again. "Is there?" Eowyn finally responded and nodded. "Good. Help bar the door from the inside. Then you must lead them out of here."
The crying became more insistent as the women realized the meaning behind the Elf's words. Their men were most likely dead- or would be soon, and they would need to flee to escape the same fate.
Mirriel's words broke through the haze Eowyn resided under. She broke into action, calling out orders and forcing the other women to help Mirriel and herself barricade the door. Their attempts would certainly not stop the Uruk-hai from entering, but Mirriel hoped it would at least slow them down. Footsteps could be heard above; shouts to shore up the door.
"Lead them on, Eowyn," Mirriel demanded. "Get them out of here now."
A horn began to blow, causing the women to pause. Horses- the beating of horse hooves, Mirriel heard and then the crash of a door being ripped from its hinges. Screams of terror followed. In the distance Mirriel heard the stampede of many more horse feet. So many she could not count. Orcs did not ride horses, this she knew, as the beasts would not support their weight, their terror too great. And somehow she knew. Mithrandir. He had come.
At the sound of the horn, the women of Rohan had refused to flee. Even though Mirriel thought their actions foolish, she was glad for the company. Mirriel paced, anxious over what was occurring on the battlefield. The silence above them was deafening.
After an eternity of hearing nothing but absolute silence that had Mirriel on edge, the scurrying of feet could be heard coming down the passage. The door was unbarred and someone tried to push it open. But it would not budge. Their blockade had worked. The women gave a sigh of relief to see it hold. The door was pushed against, harder this time, by more than one. In their apparent frustration, what sounded like a body was slammed against it. Then a voice could be heard through the wood.
"Kala, pantlle sina annon sii'!" (Kala, open this door at once!)," an irate voice rang out over the sounds of bodies trying to force the door open.
"Legolas," she breathed. Even in his anger, she had never heard a more beloved sound. "Khillle amin! (Help me!)" When she realized the women were just standing there starring at her, she repeated the commanded in the common Western tongue. Some immediately stepped to her aid. They soon had the door unbarred and just as Mirriel stepped back, it swung open. On the other side stood Legolas. With a cry, Mirriel launched herself at him. He caught her in his arms, burying his face in her hair.
When Aragorn had told him of her presence, that she was in the caves below, he had been filled with such a panic. He had turned on his heels, running into the keep and down the narrow winding path that led to the caves below. He had to see for his own eyes that she was all right. When he had found the doors barred, he had been filled with such rage he had not even noticed Aragorn, Gimli, or Gandalf behind him. He'd only thought of getting her out. He had braced his shoulder against the door, but it would not move. Aragorn had pushed him out of the way and he and Gimli had taken his place. When Legolas realized they were having no luck, he'd yelled out to her, demanding her compliance. He wanted no barriers between them so he could beat her properly.
All thoughts of anger evaporated once she was in his arms. He was just thankful she was safe. He was so lost in the feel and scent of her; he did not notice any of the other women in the room, or the Rohirrim men who had followed behind him into the cave.
"Kala," he whispered against her neck.
She pulled back from him a fraction, looking deep into his eyes. "Nalle varna, (You are safe,)" she whispered.
"Uma, naamin varna, (Yes, I am safe,)" he whispered as his lips descended to hers.
Eowyn, watching the embrace the two Elves shared, was stunned when they kissed. Aragorn, whose eyes had professed such love for this Elf, looked on with a smile. Gimli and Gandalf also seemed happy to be observing the reunion. Eowyn did not understand how these peoples could be so different from her own kind. And could Aragorn, having spent much of his time among the Elves, be that far removed from his own human feelings.
Mirriel pulled away from Legolas, remembering they were not alone. She spotted Aragorn, Gimli, and Gandalf standing not far behind him, just inside the doorway.
"You are bleeding," she admonished as she rushed to Gimli and knelt beside him.
"It is nothing, Mistress Mirriel, only a scratch," Gimli murmured as he moved his hand to his head, preventing her from examining it.
"Gimli, stop being so stubborn," she retorted as she grabbed the offending arm out of the way to get a better view of his wound. It was hardly a scratch, but neither was it life threatening. And she knew from experience that Gimli would not let her tend to it. "Have it looked at soon," she murmured as she looked up at him. "It is good to see you, my friend."
Gimli made a sound that sounded suspiciously like a choked back sob before he turned his face to the side, mumbling something about the foolishness of Elves. Mirriel smiled as she turned to Aragorn.
"And you, my brother, how do you fair?"
"As well as can be expected," Aragorn replied with a grin as he kissed her cheek.
"It is good to see you, Mirriel," Gandalf said as he placed a hand on her shoulder. Mirriel pivoted on her toes, facing him. She had much she needed to ask him. "We have much to speak of, do we not?" he asked, watching her closer for a sign of understanding. Mirriel nodded slowly. "Good. I must rest briefly and then we shall speak"
Mirriel nodded her head in agreement, even though she did not want to wait. She was anxious to find out what answers Gandalf had in his possession. But she also understood his need to rest. They probably all needed to do so. It was then Mirriel realized for the first time that Haldir was not among them. "Where is Haldir?" she asked as her heart sank in her chest. Before the words had even left her lips, she knew. Her thoughts were confirmed by the looks of those around her. "No!" she exclaimed as she her legs buckled from under her. Legolas swiftly caught her in his arms, pulling her against him. "No," she whispered brokenly. "He came only because of me, for no other reason than my own stubbornness."
"Nonsense!" Gandalf stated harshly. "Haldir came because he was needed. Now enough of this. Many lost their lives today. We must not despair, for this is not the end. Things are far from over and we have much we must concentrate on."
Mirriel wiped the tears from her eyes as she nodded, though she did not pull from Legolas' embrace. She would not have been able to remain standing upright, for though her head heard Gandalf's words and understood them, her heart did not.
