*** Here's another chapter. If anyone has ideas about what should happen
after the war, feel free to add it to the review or email me @
jendawgut@excite.com, I hope you like!
Aislin: Thank you for reviewin'. To tell ya the truth every time I thought of an idea it didn't last long enough. So that was where the headache came in. I needed someway that wouldn't interfere with the battle but not to small a worry. Poor Gimli's always confused *giggles*. I love confusin' him. About the revenge bit, Shealyn is old enough and smart enough to wait. Yeah she's twelve, only by a couple weeks if I'm right. Anyways enjoy!
Lady Death: Thanks for reviewin'. I'm glad you liked the chapter and idea. I can't wait till that moment. I hope you enjoy!
NightShade: Thanks for the review. I'm glad you liked that last chapter I hope enjoy this one!
QTpie-pippinsgurl: I'm glad you liked. Hope you enjoy!
Dara Maeko: Thank you for the review. Well Shealyn is goin' to go against Aragorn's wishes. She's goin' on instinct considering she lived with the X- Men. Anyways I hope you like!
Saera: I'm glad you liked and thanks for the review. I hope you like this chapter!
stellamucca: Hey thanks for the review I'm glad you liked. Enjoy!
anime princess: Thanks for the review. Oh and it was Halbarad who drugged her. Legolas helped her when she woke up. I hope you enjoy this chapter! ***
A soft drizzle began to fall as we made our way off the ships. My hands drifted to the gauntlets strapped on my wrists to make sure that they were secure as we started to run across the land towards where I could see the battle taking place. The Uruk-hai seemed to overpower the men they fought against and I hoped that we had arrived soon enough.
"Stay close little one..." Aragorn said coming up beside me.
"I'll try Aragorn, I'll try." I breathed unsheathing my sword as we ran.
~like that will happen~ I thought grimly as my hand groped the lightning pendant around my throat.
Legolas, Gimli and the twins were not far behind us. "You guys watch yourself." I called as we were separated.
I managed to duck just as a sword was swung above my head. Gripping my sword tightly in my hands I brought the blade up as it connected with an orcish sword. ~That was close~ I thought as another orc advanced upon me.
He pushed me roughly to the rocky ground below my feet and laughed thinking he had won. I cursed several colorful curses that I had heard Logan scream one time as I swept the orcs feet out from under him and plunged the sword into the creature's stomach. The orc howled in pain and it swung it's arm wildly catching me in the face causing me to fly backwards. Before he could strike me again a Rohirrim soldier beheaded the orc in one swift motion.
"Are you alright?" He asked pulling me quickly to my feet.
His eyes swept over me before he nodded with satisfaction and left to fight off the dark lord's servants.
Immediately my awareness of the battle around me sensed five orcs coming behind most likely thinkin' I was an easy target. ~They thought wrong~ I thought with a smirk.
Whirling around on my toes I swung my sword around catching the closest orc in his hip. The others wore a look of astonishment (well as much for a dumb orc) as they watched their comrade fall to my sword.
"Now its your turn boys." I called gesturing to bring it on.
Like the dumb orcs that they were the remaining four advanced. I danced around like a warrior would, causing the orcs to become rather frustrated. Knowing that it was never a bright idea to attack when angry except in Logan's case when he went into a berserker rage I also knew that these orcs didn't know that.
Long seconds passed before the orcs gave into their anger and frustration and let out an angry howl while raising their swords to strike me down.
"I don't think so." I hissed slicing through the neck of one before stabbing the next in the chest.
The two fell leaving two in front of me and my senses told me three more were coming up behind. Taking my right hand from the hilt of the Elvish sword I lifted it so that the palm was facing out and aimed at the now small group of orcs who all thought I was a mere child.
~I'll show them a mere child~ I thought sarcastically.
Energy gathered in my hand before I released a small wave of lightning that crashed into the orcs that stood in front of me. The orcs stumbled backwards from the force just before they fell never to rise again.
Without another thought I crouched and turned on the balls of my feet sticking the sword out in front of me as it caught an orc in the leg. The orc looked down dumbfounded at this recent development. Before the large orc could strike out I pulled the sword from his leg and leaped up lodging it in it's neck.
The orc's buddies were on the border of leavin' frustration behind and entering rage for they couldn't get their gnarled hands on me. I drove my sword into the next orc then whirling around so that I was facing the next bozo.
The creature snarled raising it's sword. The two blades connected with a clang as we fought. I pushed him away with a swift kick and stabbed him through backing up quickly to get out of the way.
*** Flashback ***
"Again Lightning..." Logan growled advancing upon me.
'snickt'
My heart pounded madly against my ribs as the six, six inch adamantium claws came out of Wolverine's knuckles. A smirk appeared on his lips as he saw and smelt my fear. ~Don't show fear~ my mind screamed as I took several steps backwards.
"Don't freeze up kid, come on." He ordered motioning for me to advance.
Slowly circling the man I never took my eyes from him as my fingers flexed allowing the energy to flow into them. Smirking I lifted my hands quickly and shot at him as I brought my legs out from under me forcing me to tuck and roll.
For the next several minutes we played this deadly game until I made a fatal mistake. A distraction to my right caused me to lower my guard allowing Wolverine to pounce on me taking me to the ground with a 'thud'. He rested the tips of the claws on one hand against my throat while he growled letting me know I had failed the lesson.
"Never ever allow yourself to become distracted while in a battle situation Lightning..." He growled pulling me to my feet by the collar of my black and dark blue uniform. "As you saw one minor distraction could get you killed." With that said Wolverine stormed back to the mansion.
I watched his retreating back and winced when I heard the door slam behind him as he entered the house. Numbly I sat down where I stood thinking about one thing over and over again. ~I could have gotten myself killed~ I thought gazing at the soft, rich green grass underneath me.
~what can I do now~ I thought after a few minutes?
Picking myself off the ground I headed towards the front doors when it struck me. ~I can go to the Danger Room~ I thought giddily racing up the stairs and through the door.
I ran down the hall as quick as my legs could carry me to the elevator. I punched the down button glancing around me in hopes that no one was around. ~good~ I thought when the coast was clear.
The elevator doors opened with a hiss as I entered the small space placing my hand on the security pad that only allowed full X-Men members to the basement levels. Like a copy machine a green light moved from the top of the box to the bottom positively identifying me.
"Good afternoon Lightning." An electronic voice said as the doors closed and the elevator made its way to the basement.
A few moments later the door slid open into a hallway made of a strong metal. I exited the elevator and turned down the hallway stopping in front of a large metal door that had a lock combination council on the wall beside it.
Punching in the code numbers the door slid open allowing me to enter the large open room. High above my head there was a command room that looked out over the Danger Room, but other then that the room was bare.
"Computer..." I called. "Switch on the Lightning 3 program please."
Instantly the room changed taking shape of New York City. The sounds...
*** End of Flashback ***
I was knocked out of my reverie when a large Uruk-hai threw several men on top of me. ~I really need to keep my mind from wandering~ I thought as I pushed myself off the ground and engaged myself once more.
~There is no end to these things~ My mind screamed while I scanned the battlefield.
Off in the distance I spotted something that caught my attention. King Théoden was surrounded by at least ten orcs and there was nothing he could do about it. He blocked the blows he received, but though Théoden fought well an orc slipped through the king's defense. The orc's blow brought Théoden to his knees and at the mercy of his executor. King Théoden's body fell forward as the orc struck again giving the fatal blow.
"Théoden has fallen." I heard a Rohirrim cry out.
~man word sure travels fast~ I thought blocking an orc's blow.
Looking around for my friends I finally spotted one of the twins running to help Aragorn who was having problems. ~That's a sure way to die~ I mused angrily moving quickly to cover his back, but before I could get close the other twin came up behind him slaying the orc that tried to kill the elf's brother.
Moving on I was attacked once more by a group of Uruk-hai that thought I was an easy target. ~guess again~
Gripping the hilt with both hands I struck the orc that came up from behind easily slaying him. My attention solely on the orcs in front of me I issued a few swift kicks to their legs stabbing them through as they fell.
Feeling a slight pain in my right shoulder I turned around and faced the orc that had nicked my flesh. Lightning flashed through my eyes as I separated his head from his shoulders.
I heard a victory cry off in the distance causing me to look up and around realizing that no orc still stood except for those who had fled. The men around me cheered clapping each other on the shoulder, some even included me.
"You fight like a true warrior young one." I heard a voice say from beside me.
Turning my head to the right I found Halbarad standing next to me. The large ranger clasped my right shoulder inflicting pain from the nick and a whimper from my lips.
"Are you hurt?" He asked worriedly taking my right arm gently.
"I got nicked by an orc blade." I responded absently as I searched the area for my friends.
"Come let us find Aragorn." He replied in that 'don't argue' tone while he gently pulled me along behind him.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Aragorn..." Halbarad called to his fellow ranger as he saw him searching most likely for Shealyn.
Aragorn looked up as he heard his name called. The look of worry vanished from his face as a look of relief replaced it. Shealyn moved up alongside Halbarad and smiled up at Aragorn who took her into his arms.
"Are you alright little one?" He asked his eyes looked the girl up and down for any wounds.
His eyes rested finally on Shealyn's right shoulder which bled freely from the small cut. Without a word Aragorn led the young girl to where the men had started to set up white canvas tents outside the walls of Gondor.
"Lord Aragorn this tent is for you." A young ranger said coming up to the group.
"Thank you young man." Aragorn said entering the offered tent with Shealyn.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"You did well out their little one." Aragorn said as he set the athelas and bandages beside me on the cot I sat on.
I smiled at the compliment as he pulled a dagger from his boot and carefully cut away the right sleeve around the cut. Aragorn then turned and dipped a cloth into athelas laced water.
"It is shallow, but I fear the blade was poisoned." He told me while he gently cleaned the wound on my upper arm.
After he cleaned the area Aragorn wrapped a bandage around my arm he stood and kissed my forehead. "I must see to the others that are wounded." He said gently before opening the flap and exiting the tent.
As the flap settled back in place the tent became dark again. Looking around the tent I found some shirts in a pack and I pulled one out. It was a sapphire blue with long sleeves.
"This will do." I whispered while unbuttoning my soiled shirt and discarding it on the ground.
Carefully I eased my double wounded right arm into the shirt sleeve and put my left in it's own sleeve before buttoning the front.
Slipping out of the tent I spotted Legolas and Gimli and walked to them. "Shealyn..." Legolas cried with joy as he ran forward and scooped me up into a tight embrace before setting me back on my feet. "When we could not find you Shealyn I feel as if I aged a thousand years." He whispered.
"Aye lass, I believe I might of lost a few years of my lifespan." Gimli teased while clasping my injured shoulder.
The wince did not go unnoticed as both Legolas and Gimli harangued me for answers about how it happened if it was poisoned and such.
"You two are just worry warts." I giggled after I told them about the cut.
"Shealyn we would be honored if you'd join us for food." Gimli said straightening his posture ever so slightly.
"Thanks, but no thanks guys." I responded smirking at Gimli.
"Suit yourself then." Legolas replied smiling before walking away pulling Gimli behind him.
Shaking my head I began walking around the camp.
*** Flashback ***
"Will they be alright Professor?" I asked as my eyes darted anxiously over my fallen teammates.
"Honestly Shealyn I am certain that all three will make a full recovery." He responded rubbing his temples gently with his fingers wearily.
I peered around the hover chair into the infirmary where the three wounded X-Men lay motionless. It hurt to see them lay there and part of me wanted to run and hide, but in the end my better judgment won. Slowly entering the room I walked stiffly to the chair placed between two of the beds and sank into the cushion. Bobby lay on the left of me and Jubilee and Logan lay on the right, Jubilee in the middle.
Silently I watched the three sleep before my eyes rested on Jubilee. "Oh Jubilee why did you do that?" I questioned quietly leaning forward on my arms.
A large bruise marred the porcelain skin of her face from the right temple to her jaw line. Her eyes were clenched shut as she desperately tried to fall asleep and leave the pain behind.
"You'll be ok Jubilee." I whispered gingerly touching her bandaged right hand that lay beside her.
The stark white bandages that wrapped around her head stood out against her jet black short hair causing me to cringe remembering the blow she had received.
"Shealyn?" She whimpered clutching my hand weakly with her own.
"Shh Jubilee..." I whispered to the older girl. "We're home now... we are safe." I said reassuringly squeezing her hand.
Jubilee nodded faintly before closing her eyes once more. As if on cue her eyes shot open and searched the room with fear and panic in her bright blue eyes.
"It's ok." I said quietly. "Logan and Bobby are alright." I told her with a smile. "Though Bobby did give us a scare a while ago."
Raising an eyebrow Jubilee looked at me questioningly as she glanced over at the prone form. "Ahh... he... um his heart stopped on us." I stammered watching her reaction. "But don't worry he pulled through." I hastily added.
Jubilee smiled and yawned sleepily. "Go to sleep Jubilee I'll stay with you for awhile." I quietly ordered pulling the bed sheet up tighter around the older girl before settling back into the chair again.
"You need sleep as well child." The professor said from behind me.
I looked over my shoulder at the man before turning back around. "I don't want to." I stated matter-of-factly clasping my hands into my lap.
The whir of the hover chair told me that the professor had moved coming to a stop beside me. "I know you wish to stay by their side until they are well, but it won't do them any good if you are placed in the bed next to them." Xavier stated resting his hand on my shoulder.
Sighing I nodded knowing he was right. "Go now Shealyn, go to bed." He urged clasping my hand.
"Alright, goodnight Professor." I whispered as I slowly stood and moved towards the door.
"Sleep well Shealyn." Professor responded as I left the room.
*** End of Flashback ***
Now back in the present my eyes focused looking around the busy camp at all the men scurrying around.
"Miss..." A man asked quickly coming up to me. "... miss I was told to come out here and find some help for Gondor's healers. Could you tell me where I might be able to find them?" He asked with a tone of urgency.
"Of course sir." I responded. "Follow me." I told him turning and began to search for Aragorn and the twins.
"Hey Halbarad........." I called to the ranger who was walking among the tents. "... have you seen Strider or the twins?" I questioned when he approached.
"Aye young one they are speaking with Lord Éomer." He replied.
"Thank you." I responded walking towards the place where Halbarad had indicated where I could find the three.
"Shealyn what is it?" Aragorn asked noticing my approach.
"Lord Éomer, Strider, Lords Elrohir, Elladan I'm sorry to interrupt, but this man..." I gestured to the servant who had asked for help. "... is searching for experienced healers." I explained.
Aragorn nodded and excused the twins and himself before following the servant towards the gates of Gondor.
"Why did you call Lord Aragorn, Strider?" Éomer asked turning to me after the three disappeared around the corner.
Shaking my head I looked up at Éomer who had a bewildered expression on his face. "Aragorn is not ready to become king and if I had addressed him as Lord Aragorn they would want to declare him king. Anyways he is one of the best healers and the people in the House of Healing need his skills." I responded.
Éomer nodded his understanding before he was called away. I turned to walk back to the tent I shared with my friends to rest when a memory hit me.
~ "I ask you to do something for me..." He paused grimacing in pain. "When... when you come to Gondor tell... tell my brother, Faramir what happened to me." He pleaded weakly taking my hand.
"I... I promise." I choked out fighting back tears. ~
I knew what I had to do, but first I needed strength to do so. Walking back slowly I opened the flap of the tent to find Legolas and Gimli talking in the corner.
"You look weary Shealyn why don't you lie down and rest." Legolas suggested looking up and studying my face intently.
"Alright..." I whispered as lay down on my cot and closed my eyes.
************************************************************************
I woke with the sun the next morning. Rubbing my sleepy eyes I sat up and glanced around the tent to find it completely empty. I sat up bowing my head a little before finally standing to pull on my boots.
"Where'd everybody go?" I whispered pulling the flap aside and walking into the morning sunlight.
The twins, Legolas, Aragorn and Gimli sat before a fire quietly talking about the plans for Mordor. "Good morning Shealyn." Elrohir said seeing me come out first.
"Mornin' guys." I greeted while sitting down between the very tired looking twins. "You guys didn't sleep at all did you?" I asked looking them over as well as Aragorn.
They sheepishly shook their heads as I glared at them. "I think I'll go rest now." Elrohir declared while pulling himself to his feet.
"That sounds like a very good idea brother." Elladan replied also getting to his feet.
I smirked at their backs as they entered the tent. Turning back to Aragorn I raised an eyebrow questioningly in which he rose quickly and followed his older twin foster brothers into the tent.
"How do you do that lass?" Gimli asked looking at me incredulously.
"I've had practice with the guys back home." I answered picking up a piece of lembas.
"You are quite talented Shealyn." Legolas commented before taking a bite of lembas in his hand.
"Thank you Legolas." I responded. "If you excuse me I need to go speak with someone right now." I added rising to my feet.
"I'll join you if you wish." Legolas said preparing to rise himself.
"No Legolas stay where you are." I replied quickly. "I must go alone." I added in a whisper.
Legolas nodded before I turned and walked away. ~Oh how I dread this~ I thought as I slowly made my way through the gates and towards the House of Healing.
Walking through the door I was greeted by the sweet smells of healing herbs. Women dressed in simple gray dresses with white aprons overtop were rushing up and down the halls with bandages and other healing supplies piled in their arms.
"Excuse me miss." I called catching the attention of a young woman.
"How can I help you milady?" She asked peering over the large bundle of bandages in her arms.
"Where could I find Lord Faramir's room?" I asked clasping my hands behind me.
"Of course milady, take the stairs to the second floor and down the hall all the way to the end on the left." She responded with a smile before she walked away into a room.
Closing my eyes I let out a nervous sigh as I focused on getting to my destination. The stairs seemed to be endless but I finally got to the top where my legs seemed to not want to work properly.
"I can't do this." I cried as I leaned against the wall.
"Shealyn?" I heard someone ask.
I looked up glancing around to find the voice who had called my name. "Shealyn..." The voice called again.
Turning to my right I didn't have time to register anything as a small blur ran to me knocking me back against the wall.
"Shealyn I missed you so much." Pippin cried with joy as his arms tightened around me.
"I missed you too Pip." I whispered sliding to the floor pulling him down with me.
"What have you been up to?" He asked shifting so that he sat beside me against the wall. "Why are you here?" He added taking my hand in his own two small ones with a worried expression on his face.
"Well Pip I'm doin' ok." I began. "As for why I'm here..." I paused to collect myself. "Back when we were at Amon Hen Boromir asked a favor of me before he... before he passed on." I said choking on my words.
"What was the favor?" Pippin asked gently afraid to upset me further.
"Boromir asked me to tell his brother, Faramir how he met his fate." I whispered resting my chin on my chest. "I don't think I have the strength to do this." I added.
"No... no... Shealyn do not say that." Pippin responded placing a hand under my chin and lifted my head so that we made eye contact. "You have the strength Shealyn. I first witnessed this after you were stabbed by the Nazgul. We all thought you were a goner for sure but you held fast until Arwen could get you to Rivendell. Then you went on a very dangerous quest and were gravely wounded in Moria. Strider was even doubtful that you would live, but you did." Pippin exclaimed. "You have strength yet Shealyn for you are still here with us. You promised Boromir that you would tell Faramir. It must be done." He added.
Smiling I looked at the young hobbit who had always caused trouble and make people laugh. "Where did you become so wise?" I asked.
Pippin returned the smile and squeezed my hand. "Ever since we first encountered you I was intrigued and when we set off on this quest I was no longer the youngest. With you journeying with us it... I do not know... you have become a younger sister to watch over." He finished pulling me into a brotherly hug.
"Thank you Pippin." I whispered as I walked away from him.
"Shealyn........." I heard a voice before me causing to look up into the face of Éomer who had just exited a room on my right. "Éowyn has asked me to find you."
Éomer moved to the side of his sister's doorframe while opening the door for me. Nodding my thanks I quietly entered the room plastering a smile on my face. Éowyn lay on the bed her face pale and drawn. Her tired eyes turned to me and a smile appeared on her face.
"Come sit beside me Shealyn." She whispered gesturing to the vacant chair next to her bed.
"What did you wish to speak to me about?" I asked.
"I wanted to apologize for my behavior back at Dunharrow." Éowyn said at last.
I opened my mouth to protest, but Éowyn held up her hand weakly warding my words off.
"Please do not deny it. When you said that I couldn't come because Aragorn would not allow it I became angry." She exclaimed.
"You were rightfully angry with me." I whispered taking her hand. "I would have been angry as well."
"Shealyn tell me how you became a fighter?" She asked after a moment.
A small sad smile appeared on my face. "After I was rescued from my prison by the X-Men in my world. They trained me and my 'gifts'. When my elders deemed me ready I went on all the missions to save innocent people from the evil that lived there in my world." I told her.
"When I am fully recovered I would love to hear more of your world." Éowyn said yawning sleepily.
"I will go now." I said rising from the chair. "Sleep well Lady of Rohan." I whispered leaving the room closing the door softly behind me.
With that over with I glanced down the hall where Faramir lay recovering from his wounds.
"Well here goes nothin'." I whispered forcing my legs to take me down the hall.
Softly I knocked on the door and waited for a response. "You may enter." A male voice called weakly from within.
Opening the door I slowly entered glancing at the man that was lying in bed propped against the headboard by large pillows. It was scary to think that he was in fact brother of Boromir. His hair was a lighter shade of brown then Boromir's though their eyes were the same gray. His body was a little smaller and you could tell that he was a few years younger then his brother.
"What can I do for you young maiden?" He asked sitting up a little taller.
"Lord... Lord Faramir I come bearing news of your brother, Boromir. Though I am not certain this is the right time to tell you." I whispered inching towards the door again.
"No I wish to know." He said gesturing me to come to him. "What is your name young maiden and how do you know of my brother?" Confusion was clearly in his voice.
I slowly sat down on the bed not wanting to look in the wounded man's eyes. "My name is Shealyn Mitchell. I traveled with Boromir on the quest to Mordor." I answered him quietly.
"He has fallen has he not?" Faramir asked quietly taking my hand causing me to look up at him.
It hurt to see the despair and anguish in the man's eyes as I searched for the right words. "Boromir fell at Amon Hen protecting Merry and Pippin, two of the hobbits that traveled with us from the Uruk-hai." I replied bowing my head.
"'Tis not your fault young one. Were you close with my brother?" He asked lifting my chin with his fingers.
I nodded not trusting my voice. Tears threatened to fall as I remembered all the times I spoke with Boromir during the quest.
"Dur... during the quest Boromir and I became close. We shared our dreams and nightmares together. I... I tried to help him with his obsession for the ring. I didn't get to him in time." I whispered.
"I know you not Lady Shealyn, but I believe Boromir loved you as a sister and that he wouldn't blame you for his fate." Faramir said soothingly squeezing my hand gently.
"Before... before he passed he gave me these." I said as I began to loosen the straps of the gauntlets.
"Keep them young one." Faramir said placing his hands on my wrists.
"Thank you Lord Faramir." I whispered. "I should go and let you get some rest." I added rising from the chair.
"Thank you as well Lady Shealyn. I know it must have been very difficult to tell me this ill news, but you were brave." Faramir responded.
I nodded taking the door handle in my hand and opened the door exiting the room quickly as possible.
Running down the stairs and out of the House of Healing. Ignoring the stares I ran passed the guards and out the gates. The tears I so valiantly fought in Faramir's room were now streaming down my face.
~I need to be alone~ I thought running a different direction away from the camp.
My feet carried me up a hill where I came to a stop at the top and slumped down on a large boulder.
"Why did he hafta die?" I muttered pulling my knees to my chest crossing my arms over them.
My thoughts wandered over every memory I had with Boromir both the good and the bad and for the longest time I just sat there not caring about anything but those memories. As I sat there one song in particular came to mind so I sang it silently.
~ Every now and then soft as breath upon my skin
I feel you come back again
And it's like you haven't been gone a moment from my side
Like the tears were never cried
Like the hands of time are holding you and me
And with all my heart I'm sure we're closer than we ever were
I don't have to hear or see, I've got all the proof I need
There are more than angels watching over me
I believe, I believe
That when you die your life goes on
It doesn't end here when you're gone
Every soul is filled with light
It never ends and if I'm right
Our love can even reach across eternity
I believe, I believe
Forever, you're a part of me
Forever, in the heart of me
And I'll hold you even longer if I can
The people who don't see the most
Say that I believe in ghosts
And if that makes me crazy, then I am
'Cause I believe
There are more than angels watching over me
I believe, I believe ~ (A/N: I Believe belongs to Diamond Rio)
By now the day had turned into night but I had no intentions of returning to the camp anytime soon.
************************************************************************
"Legolas, Gimli where is Shealyn?" Aragorn asked as he came out of the tent followed by the twins.
"I am afraid we have not seen her since this morning Aragorn." Legolas responded looking up from his daggers which he was cleaning.
"The lass did say that she had to speak with someone this morning." Gimli responded. "I believe she headed towards the gates after you three lads went to get some rest." He added.
"Stay here I will find her." Aragorn said walking towards the city gates.
Aragorn stuck to the shadows scanning the area for any sign of the girl but found none.
"Strider, Strider is that you?" Pippin asked running up to the ranger.
"Pippin? What are you doing out of the city gates this late in the evening?" Aragorn asked kneeling so that he was eye level with the hobbit.
"Did Shealyn return to camp?" The hobbit asked anxiously. "I saw her earlier in the House of Healing. She visited with Éowyn, but her first intention there was to see Lord Faramir, brother of Boromir." Pippin said. "After that I did not see her." He added.
"Thank you Pippin, why don't you go back to the city I will find her." Aragorn told the hobbit before giving him a nudge towards the city gates.
Aragorn stood and looked around once more thinking of where Shealyn might have gone. His gaze landed on the hill facing the east.
"That is where I'll start my search." He murmured as he made his way up the slope.
As the ranger neared the top he saw a figure sitting on a boulder rocking slowly back and forth. "Shealyn?" He called softly as not to scare her.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Shealyn?" I looked up and over my shoulder to see who had called my name.
"Aragorn?" I sniffed uncurling myself from position that I had been in for hours.
"What happened little one?" Aragorn asked scooping me up into his arms. "Pippin said you went to see Faramir."
Nodding my head which lay against his chest I wrapped my arms more tightly around him. "It was so hard to tell him that his brother was dead." I whispered sadly allowing the tears to fall.
"I know little one, I know." He answered holding me tightly while stroking my hair softly. "Lets get you back to camp." He said turning and walking back down the hill.
Squeezing my eyes shut I listened to Aragorn's steady beat which eventually caused me to relax and lull me to sleep.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"You found her." Elrohir stated seeing his younger brother return with the sleeping Shealyn in his arms.
"What happened?" Elladan asked seeing Shealyn's tear stained face.
"I will explain in a moment." Aragorn responded as he disappeared into the tent.
A few minutes later the ranger emerged and came to sit between his brothers. "Before Boromir passed at Amon Hen he asked Shealyn to tell Faramir. This morning she went to the House of Healing and spoke with him." Aragorn explained.
There was no need for Aragorn to continue for they all knew how hard bearing ill news was like.
"Poor lass... that took a lot of courage to fulfill." Gimli growled fingering his ax that lay by his side.
"I figured as much when she informed Gimli and I that she needed to speak with someone this morning." Legolas murmured thoughtfully.
"Pippin was worried for her when I saw him just outside the gates." Aragorn said. "It will become easier for her in time." He added gazing up at the stars. "As for now 'tis late we should all get our rest."
The others nodded while Gimli stood up and put out the small fire and the five retired for the night.
*** That was the longest chapter so far at 16 ¼ pages. Sorry it took so long. I had several Grad parties to attend and I began workin' for my dad at our Racquet Club pool concession stand four days a week, four hour shifts. Oh if you haven't noticed Shealyn's fav list grew. Aragorn, Pippin, Merry, Legolas, Rumil, and Elrohir. I hope you enjoyed! ***
Aislin: Thank you for reviewin'. To tell ya the truth every time I thought of an idea it didn't last long enough. So that was where the headache came in. I needed someway that wouldn't interfere with the battle but not to small a worry. Poor Gimli's always confused *giggles*. I love confusin' him. About the revenge bit, Shealyn is old enough and smart enough to wait. Yeah she's twelve, only by a couple weeks if I'm right. Anyways enjoy!
Lady Death: Thanks for reviewin'. I'm glad you liked the chapter and idea. I can't wait till that moment. I hope you enjoy!
NightShade: Thanks for the review. I'm glad you liked that last chapter I hope enjoy this one!
QTpie-pippinsgurl: I'm glad you liked. Hope you enjoy!
Dara Maeko: Thank you for the review. Well Shealyn is goin' to go against Aragorn's wishes. She's goin' on instinct considering she lived with the X- Men. Anyways I hope you like!
Saera: I'm glad you liked and thanks for the review. I hope you like this chapter!
stellamucca: Hey thanks for the review I'm glad you liked. Enjoy!
anime princess: Thanks for the review. Oh and it was Halbarad who drugged her. Legolas helped her when she woke up. I hope you enjoy this chapter! ***
A soft drizzle began to fall as we made our way off the ships. My hands drifted to the gauntlets strapped on my wrists to make sure that they were secure as we started to run across the land towards where I could see the battle taking place. The Uruk-hai seemed to overpower the men they fought against and I hoped that we had arrived soon enough.
"Stay close little one..." Aragorn said coming up beside me.
"I'll try Aragorn, I'll try." I breathed unsheathing my sword as we ran.
~like that will happen~ I thought grimly as my hand groped the lightning pendant around my throat.
Legolas, Gimli and the twins were not far behind us. "You guys watch yourself." I called as we were separated.
I managed to duck just as a sword was swung above my head. Gripping my sword tightly in my hands I brought the blade up as it connected with an orcish sword. ~That was close~ I thought as another orc advanced upon me.
He pushed me roughly to the rocky ground below my feet and laughed thinking he had won. I cursed several colorful curses that I had heard Logan scream one time as I swept the orcs feet out from under him and plunged the sword into the creature's stomach. The orc howled in pain and it swung it's arm wildly catching me in the face causing me to fly backwards. Before he could strike me again a Rohirrim soldier beheaded the orc in one swift motion.
"Are you alright?" He asked pulling me quickly to my feet.
His eyes swept over me before he nodded with satisfaction and left to fight off the dark lord's servants.
Immediately my awareness of the battle around me sensed five orcs coming behind most likely thinkin' I was an easy target. ~They thought wrong~ I thought with a smirk.
Whirling around on my toes I swung my sword around catching the closest orc in his hip. The others wore a look of astonishment (well as much for a dumb orc) as they watched their comrade fall to my sword.
"Now its your turn boys." I called gesturing to bring it on.
Like the dumb orcs that they were the remaining four advanced. I danced around like a warrior would, causing the orcs to become rather frustrated. Knowing that it was never a bright idea to attack when angry except in Logan's case when he went into a berserker rage I also knew that these orcs didn't know that.
Long seconds passed before the orcs gave into their anger and frustration and let out an angry howl while raising their swords to strike me down.
"I don't think so." I hissed slicing through the neck of one before stabbing the next in the chest.
The two fell leaving two in front of me and my senses told me three more were coming up behind. Taking my right hand from the hilt of the Elvish sword I lifted it so that the palm was facing out and aimed at the now small group of orcs who all thought I was a mere child.
~I'll show them a mere child~ I thought sarcastically.
Energy gathered in my hand before I released a small wave of lightning that crashed into the orcs that stood in front of me. The orcs stumbled backwards from the force just before they fell never to rise again.
Without another thought I crouched and turned on the balls of my feet sticking the sword out in front of me as it caught an orc in the leg. The orc looked down dumbfounded at this recent development. Before the large orc could strike out I pulled the sword from his leg and leaped up lodging it in it's neck.
The orc's buddies were on the border of leavin' frustration behind and entering rage for they couldn't get their gnarled hands on me. I drove my sword into the next orc then whirling around so that I was facing the next bozo.
The creature snarled raising it's sword. The two blades connected with a clang as we fought. I pushed him away with a swift kick and stabbed him through backing up quickly to get out of the way.
*** Flashback ***
"Again Lightning..." Logan growled advancing upon me.
'snickt'
My heart pounded madly against my ribs as the six, six inch adamantium claws came out of Wolverine's knuckles. A smirk appeared on his lips as he saw and smelt my fear. ~Don't show fear~ my mind screamed as I took several steps backwards.
"Don't freeze up kid, come on." He ordered motioning for me to advance.
Slowly circling the man I never took my eyes from him as my fingers flexed allowing the energy to flow into them. Smirking I lifted my hands quickly and shot at him as I brought my legs out from under me forcing me to tuck and roll.
For the next several minutes we played this deadly game until I made a fatal mistake. A distraction to my right caused me to lower my guard allowing Wolverine to pounce on me taking me to the ground with a 'thud'. He rested the tips of the claws on one hand against my throat while he growled letting me know I had failed the lesson.
"Never ever allow yourself to become distracted while in a battle situation Lightning..." He growled pulling me to my feet by the collar of my black and dark blue uniform. "As you saw one minor distraction could get you killed." With that said Wolverine stormed back to the mansion.
I watched his retreating back and winced when I heard the door slam behind him as he entered the house. Numbly I sat down where I stood thinking about one thing over and over again. ~I could have gotten myself killed~ I thought gazing at the soft, rich green grass underneath me.
~what can I do now~ I thought after a few minutes?
Picking myself off the ground I headed towards the front doors when it struck me. ~I can go to the Danger Room~ I thought giddily racing up the stairs and through the door.
I ran down the hall as quick as my legs could carry me to the elevator. I punched the down button glancing around me in hopes that no one was around. ~good~ I thought when the coast was clear.
The elevator doors opened with a hiss as I entered the small space placing my hand on the security pad that only allowed full X-Men members to the basement levels. Like a copy machine a green light moved from the top of the box to the bottom positively identifying me.
"Good afternoon Lightning." An electronic voice said as the doors closed and the elevator made its way to the basement.
A few moments later the door slid open into a hallway made of a strong metal. I exited the elevator and turned down the hallway stopping in front of a large metal door that had a lock combination council on the wall beside it.
Punching in the code numbers the door slid open allowing me to enter the large open room. High above my head there was a command room that looked out over the Danger Room, but other then that the room was bare.
"Computer..." I called. "Switch on the Lightning 3 program please."
Instantly the room changed taking shape of New York City. The sounds...
*** End of Flashback ***
I was knocked out of my reverie when a large Uruk-hai threw several men on top of me. ~I really need to keep my mind from wandering~ I thought as I pushed myself off the ground and engaged myself once more.
~There is no end to these things~ My mind screamed while I scanned the battlefield.
Off in the distance I spotted something that caught my attention. King Théoden was surrounded by at least ten orcs and there was nothing he could do about it. He blocked the blows he received, but though Théoden fought well an orc slipped through the king's defense. The orc's blow brought Théoden to his knees and at the mercy of his executor. King Théoden's body fell forward as the orc struck again giving the fatal blow.
"Théoden has fallen." I heard a Rohirrim cry out.
~man word sure travels fast~ I thought blocking an orc's blow.
Looking around for my friends I finally spotted one of the twins running to help Aragorn who was having problems. ~That's a sure way to die~ I mused angrily moving quickly to cover his back, but before I could get close the other twin came up behind him slaying the orc that tried to kill the elf's brother.
Moving on I was attacked once more by a group of Uruk-hai that thought I was an easy target. ~guess again~
Gripping the hilt with both hands I struck the orc that came up from behind easily slaying him. My attention solely on the orcs in front of me I issued a few swift kicks to their legs stabbing them through as they fell.
Feeling a slight pain in my right shoulder I turned around and faced the orc that had nicked my flesh. Lightning flashed through my eyes as I separated his head from his shoulders.
I heard a victory cry off in the distance causing me to look up and around realizing that no orc still stood except for those who had fled. The men around me cheered clapping each other on the shoulder, some even included me.
"You fight like a true warrior young one." I heard a voice say from beside me.
Turning my head to the right I found Halbarad standing next to me. The large ranger clasped my right shoulder inflicting pain from the nick and a whimper from my lips.
"Are you hurt?" He asked worriedly taking my right arm gently.
"I got nicked by an orc blade." I responded absently as I searched the area for my friends.
"Come let us find Aragorn." He replied in that 'don't argue' tone while he gently pulled me along behind him.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Aragorn..." Halbarad called to his fellow ranger as he saw him searching most likely for Shealyn.
Aragorn looked up as he heard his name called. The look of worry vanished from his face as a look of relief replaced it. Shealyn moved up alongside Halbarad and smiled up at Aragorn who took her into his arms.
"Are you alright little one?" He asked his eyes looked the girl up and down for any wounds.
His eyes rested finally on Shealyn's right shoulder which bled freely from the small cut. Without a word Aragorn led the young girl to where the men had started to set up white canvas tents outside the walls of Gondor.
"Lord Aragorn this tent is for you." A young ranger said coming up to the group.
"Thank you young man." Aragorn said entering the offered tent with Shealyn.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"You did well out their little one." Aragorn said as he set the athelas and bandages beside me on the cot I sat on.
I smiled at the compliment as he pulled a dagger from his boot and carefully cut away the right sleeve around the cut. Aragorn then turned and dipped a cloth into athelas laced water.
"It is shallow, but I fear the blade was poisoned." He told me while he gently cleaned the wound on my upper arm.
After he cleaned the area Aragorn wrapped a bandage around my arm he stood and kissed my forehead. "I must see to the others that are wounded." He said gently before opening the flap and exiting the tent.
As the flap settled back in place the tent became dark again. Looking around the tent I found some shirts in a pack and I pulled one out. It was a sapphire blue with long sleeves.
"This will do." I whispered while unbuttoning my soiled shirt and discarding it on the ground.
Carefully I eased my double wounded right arm into the shirt sleeve and put my left in it's own sleeve before buttoning the front.
Slipping out of the tent I spotted Legolas and Gimli and walked to them. "Shealyn..." Legolas cried with joy as he ran forward and scooped me up into a tight embrace before setting me back on my feet. "When we could not find you Shealyn I feel as if I aged a thousand years." He whispered.
"Aye lass, I believe I might of lost a few years of my lifespan." Gimli teased while clasping my injured shoulder.
The wince did not go unnoticed as both Legolas and Gimli harangued me for answers about how it happened if it was poisoned and such.
"You two are just worry warts." I giggled after I told them about the cut.
"Shealyn we would be honored if you'd join us for food." Gimli said straightening his posture ever so slightly.
"Thanks, but no thanks guys." I responded smirking at Gimli.
"Suit yourself then." Legolas replied smiling before walking away pulling Gimli behind him.
Shaking my head I began walking around the camp.
*** Flashback ***
"Will they be alright Professor?" I asked as my eyes darted anxiously over my fallen teammates.
"Honestly Shealyn I am certain that all three will make a full recovery." He responded rubbing his temples gently with his fingers wearily.
I peered around the hover chair into the infirmary where the three wounded X-Men lay motionless. It hurt to see them lay there and part of me wanted to run and hide, but in the end my better judgment won. Slowly entering the room I walked stiffly to the chair placed between two of the beds and sank into the cushion. Bobby lay on the left of me and Jubilee and Logan lay on the right, Jubilee in the middle.
Silently I watched the three sleep before my eyes rested on Jubilee. "Oh Jubilee why did you do that?" I questioned quietly leaning forward on my arms.
A large bruise marred the porcelain skin of her face from the right temple to her jaw line. Her eyes were clenched shut as she desperately tried to fall asleep and leave the pain behind.
"You'll be ok Jubilee." I whispered gingerly touching her bandaged right hand that lay beside her.
The stark white bandages that wrapped around her head stood out against her jet black short hair causing me to cringe remembering the blow she had received.
"Shealyn?" She whimpered clutching my hand weakly with her own.
"Shh Jubilee..." I whispered to the older girl. "We're home now... we are safe." I said reassuringly squeezing her hand.
Jubilee nodded faintly before closing her eyes once more. As if on cue her eyes shot open and searched the room with fear and panic in her bright blue eyes.
"It's ok." I said quietly. "Logan and Bobby are alright." I told her with a smile. "Though Bobby did give us a scare a while ago."
Raising an eyebrow Jubilee looked at me questioningly as she glanced over at the prone form. "Ahh... he... um his heart stopped on us." I stammered watching her reaction. "But don't worry he pulled through." I hastily added.
Jubilee smiled and yawned sleepily. "Go to sleep Jubilee I'll stay with you for awhile." I quietly ordered pulling the bed sheet up tighter around the older girl before settling back into the chair again.
"You need sleep as well child." The professor said from behind me.
I looked over my shoulder at the man before turning back around. "I don't want to." I stated matter-of-factly clasping my hands into my lap.
The whir of the hover chair told me that the professor had moved coming to a stop beside me. "I know you wish to stay by their side until they are well, but it won't do them any good if you are placed in the bed next to them." Xavier stated resting his hand on my shoulder.
Sighing I nodded knowing he was right. "Go now Shealyn, go to bed." He urged clasping my hand.
"Alright, goodnight Professor." I whispered as I slowly stood and moved towards the door.
"Sleep well Shealyn." Professor responded as I left the room.
*** End of Flashback ***
Now back in the present my eyes focused looking around the busy camp at all the men scurrying around.
"Miss..." A man asked quickly coming up to me. "... miss I was told to come out here and find some help for Gondor's healers. Could you tell me where I might be able to find them?" He asked with a tone of urgency.
"Of course sir." I responded. "Follow me." I told him turning and began to search for Aragorn and the twins.
"Hey Halbarad........." I called to the ranger who was walking among the tents. "... have you seen Strider or the twins?" I questioned when he approached.
"Aye young one they are speaking with Lord Éomer." He replied.
"Thank you." I responded walking towards the place where Halbarad had indicated where I could find the three.
"Shealyn what is it?" Aragorn asked noticing my approach.
"Lord Éomer, Strider, Lords Elrohir, Elladan I'm sorry to interrupt, but this man..." I gestured to the servant who had asked for help. "... is searching for experienced healers." I explained.
Aragorn nodded and excused the twins and himself before following the servant towards the gates of Gondor.
"Why did you call Lord Aragorn, Strider?" Éomer asked turning to me after the three disappeared around the corner.
Shaking my head I looked up at Éomer who had a bewildered expression on his face. "Aragorn is not ready to become king and if I had addressed him as Lord Aragorn they would want to declare him king. Anyways he is one of the best healers and the people in the House of Healing need his skills." I responded.
Éomer nodded his understanding before he was called away. I turned to walk back to the tent I shared with my friends to rest when a memory hit me.
~ "I ask you to do something for me..." He paused grimacing in pain. "When... when you come to Gondor tell... tell my brother, Faramir what happened to me." He pleaded weakly taking my hand.
"I... I promise." I choked out fighting back tears. ~
I knew what I had to do, but first I needed strength to do so. Walking back slowly I opened the flap of the tent to find Legolas and Gimli talking in the corner.
"You look weary Shealyn why don't you lie down and rest." Legolas suggested looking up and studying my face intently.
"Alright..." I whispered as lay down on my cot and closed my eyes.
************************************************************************
I woke with the sun the next morning. Rubbing my sleepy eyes I sat up and glanced around the tent to find it completely empty. I sat up bowing my head a little before finally standing to pull on my boots.
"Where'd everybody go?" I whispered pulling the flap aside and walking into the morning sunlight.
The twins, Legolas, Aragorn and Gimli sat before a fire quietly talking about the plans for Mordor. "Good morning Shealyn." Elrohir said seeing me come out first.
"Mornin' guys." I greeted while sitting down between the very tired looking twins. "You guys didn't sleep at all did you?" I asked looking them over as well as Aragorn.
They sheepishly shook their heads as I glared at them. "I think I'll go rest now." Elrohir declared while pulling himself to his feet.
"That sounds like a very good idea brother." Elladan replied also getting to his feet.
I smirked at their backs as they entered the tent. Turning back to Aragorn I raised an eyebrow questioningly in which he rose quickly and followed his older twin foster brothers into the tent.
"How do you do that lass?" Gimli asked looking at me incredulously.
"I've had practice with the guys back home." I answered picking up a piece of lembas.
"You are quite talented Shealyn." Legolas commented before taking a bite of lembas in his hand.
"Thank you Legolas." I responded. "If you excuse me I need to go speak with someone right now." I added rising to my feet.
"I'll join you if you wish." Legolas said preparing to rise himself.
"No Legolas stay where you are." I replied quickly. "I must go alone." I added in a whisper.
Legolas nodded before I turned and walked away. ~Oh how I dread this~ I thought as I slowly made my way through the gates and towards the House of Healing.
Walking through the door I was greeted by the sweet smells of healing herbs. Women dressed in simple gray dresses with white aprons overtop were rushing up and down the halls with bandages and other healing supplies piled in their arms.
"Excuse me miss." I called catching the attention of a young woman.
"How can I help you milady?" She asked peering over the large bundle of bandages in her arms.
"Where could I find Lord Faramir's room?" I asked clasping my hands behind me.
"Of course milady, take the stairs to the second floor and down the hall all the way to the end on the left." She responded with a smile before she walked away into a room.
Closing my eyes I let out a nervous sigh as I focused on getting to my destination. The stairs seemed to be endless but I finally got to the top where my legs seemed to not want to work properly.
"I can't do this." I cried as I leaned against the wall.
"Shealyn?" I heard someone ask.
I looked up glancing around to find the voice who had called my name. "Shealyn..." The voice called again.
Turning to my right I didn't have time to register anything as a small blur ran to me knocking me back against the wall.
"Shealyn I missed you so much." Pippin cried with joy as his arms tightened around me.
"I missed you too Pip." I whispered sliding to the floor pulling him down with me.
"What have you been up to?" He asked shifting so that he sat beside me against the wall. "Why are you here?" He added taking my hand in his own two small ones with a worried expression on his face.
"Well Pip I'm doin' ok." I began. "As for why I'm here..." I paused to collect myself. "Back when we were at Amon Hen Boromir asked a favor of me before he... before he passed on." I said choking on my words.
"What was the favor?" Pippin asked gently afraid to upset me further.
"Boromir asked me to tell his brother, Faramir how he met his fate." I whispered resting my chin on my chest. "I don't think I have the strength to do this." I added.
"No... no... Shealyn do not say that." Pippin responded placing a hand under my chin and lifted my head so that we made eye contact. "You have the strength Shealyn. I first witnessed this after you were stabbed by the Nazgul. We all thought you were a goner for sure but you held fast until Arwen could get you to Rivendell. Then you went on a very dangerous quest and were gravely wounded in Moria. Strider was even doubtful that you would live, but you did." Pippin exclaimed. "You have strength yet Shealyn for you are still here with us. You promised Boromir that you would tell Faramir. It must be done." He added.
Smiling I looked at the young hobbit who had always caused trouble and make people laugh. "Where did you become so wise?" I asked.
Pippin returned the smile and squeezed my hand. "Ever since we first encountered you I was intrigued and when we set off on this quest I was no longer the youngest. With you journeying with us it... I do not know... you have become a younger sister to watch over." He finished pulling me into a brotherly hug.
"Thank you Pippin." I whispered as I walked away from him.
"Shealyn........." I heard a voice before me causing to look up into the face of Éomer who had just exited a room on my right. "Éowyn has asked me to find you."
Éomer moved to the side of his sister's doorframe while opening the door for me. Nodding my thanks I quietly entered the room plastering a smile on my face. Éowyn lay on the bed her face pale and drawn. Her tired eyes turned to me and a smile appeared on her face.
"Come sit beside me Shealyn." She whispered gesturing to the vacant chair next to her bed.
"What did you wish to speak to me about?" I asked.
"I wanted to apologize for my behavior back at Dunharrow." Éowyn said at last.
I opened my mouth to protest, but Éowyn held up her hand weakly warding my words off.
"Please do not deny it. When you said that I couldn't come because Aragorn would not allow it I became angry." She exclaimed.
"You were rightfully angry with me." I whispered taking her hand. "I would have been angry as well."
"Shealyn tell me how you became a fighter?" She asked after a moment.
A small sad smile appeared on my face. "After I was rescued from my prison by the X-Men in my world. They trained me and my 'gifts'. When my elders deemed me ready I went on all the missions to save innocent people from the evil that lived there in my world." I told her.
"When I am fully recovered I would love to hear more of your world." Éowyn said yawning sleepily.
"I will go now." I said rising from the chair. "Sleep well Lady of Rohan." I whispered leaving the room closing the door softly behind me.
With that over with I glanced down the hall where Faramir lay recovering from his wounds.
"Well here goes nothin'." I whispered forcing my legs to take me down the hall.
Softly I knocked on the door and waited for a response. "You may enter." A male voice called weakly from within.
Opening the door I slowly entered glancing at the man that was lying in bed propped against the headboard by large pillows. It was scary to think that he was in fact brother of Boromir. His hair was a lighter shade of brown then Boromir's though their eyes were the same gray. His body was a little smaller and you could tell that he was a few years younger then his brother.
"What can I do for you young maiden?" He asked sitting up a little taller.
"Lord... Lord Faramir I come bearing news of your brother, Boromir. Though I am not certain this is the right time to tell you." I whispered inching towards the door again.
"No I wish to know." He said gesturing me to come to him. "What is your name young maiden and how do you know of my brother?" Confusion was clearly in his voice.
I slowly sat down on the bed not wanting to look in the wounded man's eyes. "My name is Shealyn Mitchell. I traveled with Boromir on the quest to Mordor." I answered him quietly.
"He has fallen has he not?" Faramir asked quietly taking my hand causing me to look up at him.
It hurt to see the despair and anguish in the man's eyes as I searched for the right words. "Boromir fell at Amon Hen protecting Merry and Pippin, two of the hobbits that traveled with us from the Uruk-hai." I replied bowing my head.
"'Tis not your fault young one. Were you close with my brother?" He asked lifting my chin with his fingers.
I nodded not trusting my voice. Tears threatened to fall as I remembered all the times I spoke with Boromir during the quest.
"Dur... during the quest Boromir and I became close. We shared our dreams and nightmares together. I... I tried to help him with his obsession for the ring. I didn't get to him in time." I whispered.
"I know you not Lady Shealyn, but I believe Boromir loved you as a sister and that he wouldn't blame you for his fate." Faramir said soothingly squeezing my hand gently.
"Before... before he passed he gave me these." I said as I began to loosen the straps of the gauntlets.
"Keep them young one." Faramir said placing his hands on my wrists.
"Thank you Lord Faramir." I whispered. "I should go and let you get some rest." I added rising from the chair.
"Thank you as well Lady Shealyn. I know it must have been very difficult to tell me this ill news, but you were brave." Faramir responded.
I nodded taking the door handle in my hand and opened the door exiting the room quickly as possible.
Running down the stairs and out of the House of Healing. Ignoring the stares I ran passed the guards and out the gates. The tears I so valiantly fought in Faramir's room were now streaming down my face.
~I need to be alone~ I thought running a different direction away from the camp.
My feet carried me up a hill where I came to a stop at the top and slumped down on a large boulder.
"Why did he hafta die?" I muttered pulling my knees to my chest crossing my arms over them.
My thoughts wandered over every memory I had with Boromir both the good and the bad and for the longest time I just sat there not caring about anything but those memories. As I sat there one song in particular came to mind so I sang it silently.
~ Every now and then soft as breath upon my skin
I feel you come back again
And it's like you haven't been gone a moment from my side
Like the tears were never cried
Like the hands of time are holding you and me
And with all my heart I'm sure we're closer than we ever were
I don't have to hear or see, I've got all the proof I need
There are more than angels watching over me
I believe, I believe
That when you die your life goes on
It doesn't end here when you're gone
Every soul is filled with light
It never ends and if I'm right
Our love can even reach across eternity
I believe, I believe
Forever, you're a part of me
Forever, in the heart of me
And I'll hold you even longer if I can
The people who don't see the most
Say that I believe in ghosts
And if that makes me crazy, then I am
'Cause I believe
There are more than angels watching over me
I believe, I believe ~ (A/N: I Believe belongs to Diamond Rio)
By now the day had turned into night but I had no intentions of returning to the camp anytime soon.
************************************************************************
"Legolas, Gimli where is Shealyn?" Aragorn asked as he came out of the tent followed by the twins.
"I am afraid we have not seen her since this morning Aragorn." Legolas responded looking up from his daggers which he was cleaning.
"The lass did say that she had to speak with someone this morning." Gimli responded. "I believe she headed towards the gates after you three lads went to get some rest." He added.
"Stay here I will find her." Aragorn said walking towards the city gates.
Aragorn stuck to the shadows scanning the area for any sign of the girl but found none.
"Strider, Strider is that you?" Pippin asked running up to the ranger.
"Pippin? What are you doing out of the city gates this late in the evening?" Aragorn asked kneeling so that he was eye level with the hobbit.
"Did Shealyn return to camp?" The hobbit asked anxiously. "I saw her earlier in the House of Healing. She visited with Éowyn, but her first intention there was to see Lord Faramir, brother of Boromir." Pippin said. "After that I did not see her." He added.
"Thank you Pippin, why don't you go back to the city I will find her." Aragorn told the hobbit before giving him a nudge towards the city gates.
Aragorn stood and looked around once more thinking of where Shealyn might have gone. His gaze landed on the hill facing the east.
"That is where I'll start my search." He murmured as he made his way up the slope.
As the ranger neared the top he saw a figure sitting on a boulder rocking slowly back and forth. "Shealyn?" He called softly as not to scare her.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Shealyn?" I looked up and over my shoulder to see who had called my name.
"Aragorn?" I sniffed uncurling myself from position that I had been in for hours.
"What happened little one?" Aragorn asked scooping me up into his arms. "Pippin said you went to see Faramir."
Nodding my head which lay against his chest I wrapped my arms more tightly around him. "It was so hard to tell him that his brother was dead." I whispered sadly allowing the tears to fall.
"I know little one, I know." He answered holding me tightly while stroking my hair softly. "Lets get you back to camp." He said turning and walking back down the hill.
Squeezing my eyes shut I listened to Aragorn's steady beat which eventually caused me to relax and lull me to sleep.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"You found her." Elrohir stated seeing his younger brother return with the sleeping Shealyn in his arms.
"What happened?" Elladan asked seeing Shealyn's tear stained face.
"I will explain in a moment." Aragorn responded as he disappeared into the tent.
A few minutes later the ranger emerged and came to sit between his brothers. "Before Boromir passed at Amon Hen he asked Shealyn to tell Faramir. This morning she went to the House of Healing and spoke with him." Aragorn explained.
There was no need for Aragorn to continue for they all knew how hard bearing ill news was like.
"Poor lass... that took a lot of courage to fulfill." Gimli growled fingering his ax that lay by his side.
"I figured as much when she informed Gimli and I that she needed to speak with someone this morning." Legolas murmured thoughtfully.
"Pippin was worried for her when I saw him just outside the gates." Aragorn said. "It will become easier for her in time." He added gazing up at the stars. "As for now 'tis late we should all get our rest."
The others nodded while Gimli stood up and put out the small fire and the five retired for the night.
*** That was the longest chapter so far at 16 ¼ pages. Sorry it took so long. I had several Grad parties to attend and I began workin' for my dad at our Racquet Club pool concession stand four days a week, four hour shifts. Oh if you haven't noticed Shealyn's fav list grew. Aragorn, Pippin, Merry, Legolas, Rumil, and Elrohir. I hope you enjoyed! ***