**I don't own anything from Lord of the Rings, J. R.R. Tolkien, or any of
the poetry or poets referenced (such as John Keats, Shakespeare, Poe,
Donne) or the song "Judgement of the Moon and Stars (Ludwig's Tune)" by
Joni Mitchell-all I own is Dascha, Ivy, Geniveve, Christopher, Ireth and
Taralom**
A/N: This story is the second part of "The Evangeline Series," the first part being found in the story "A Sorta Fairytale." Please read it and review if you have not already done so. Happy reading!
PART TWO OF THE EVANGELINE SERIES:
Judgement of the Moon and Stars
By Leah Pensotti
Chapter Six: An Ordinary World
Geniveve took a bite of bread and looked around the lonely, vacant hall of Meduseld. As evening fell on Rohan; Dascha, Eowyn and Geniveve ate their meal in a strange silence. They had spoken few words since the Rohirrim departed in the morning.
Geniveve became intensely aware of her own chewing. There wasn't much to do in Edoras. She had already checked on Ireth and Taralom three times and felt quite sure that they were becoming annoyed with her.
Suddenly, Eowyn rose and looked to the guests, "I'm sorry, friends. I am finished. If you would please excuse me."
Geniveve nodded, "Of course."
As Eowyn walked away, Dascha raised a questioning eyebrow, "What's wrong with her?"
Geniveve sighed, "She'd rather be with them. Out there in the rain with the Uruks, fighting for Rohan with her brother and uncle."
Dascha looked back to her food, "Oh."
Geniveve stood, "I'm going to go to bed. Are you almost done?"
Dascha nodded, "Yeah, I'll come too."
As they climbed the stairs to their quarters, Geniveve caught sight of Eowyn standing at a high window. She fell behind Dascha and bid her to go on, she would join her in a bit. Geniveve approached Eowyn cautiously and tried her best not to be intrusive.
"Are you alright, Eowyn?"
Eowyn did not turn to meet her, but faced the window, the wind and rain beat on her face, "I am well, Evangeline."
"No you're not."
Eowyn finally turned and met eyes with Geniveve. Her face and hair was dripping with rainwater, "There's Helm's Deep."
Geniveve looked through the window. She could see nothing, but decided to take Eowyn's word for it, "I know that you would rather be there."
Eowyn remained quiet. Geniveve could see the thoughts swimming through her head. Eowyn somberly looked at Geniveve again and nodded, "Yes."
A long silence fell over them and Eowyn eyed Geniveve curiously, "I saw you today. With the Elf."
Geniveve could feel her cheeks turn a deep pink, "Oh, Eowyn! I am so sorry if it was inappropriate."
Eowyn raised a hand to her, "No. Don't apologize. I was wondering if you, er, love him."
Geniveve repressed the shock. There was that blasted word again. She looked thoughtful for a moment, "I'm not sure."
Eowyn smiled, "Interesting."
Geniveve took her by her arm, "Come lady, you'll catch your death."
They walked to Eowyn's room and Geniveve sat on the large four-poster bed as Eowyn disappeared behind her dressing screen. Eowyn persistently asked questions, "How did you come to meet?"
Geniveve slouched slightly, "In Rivendell five months ago. Then later in Lothlorien."
Eowyn appeared at the side of the bed in her warm nightdress and robe.
"Did you know instantly?"
Geniveve frowned and then chuckled lightly, "You've got to understand, Eowyn. I am not sure of anything. I am still confused about-well, everything. To be perfectly honest, Legolas and I don't get along very well. We irritate each other so much. He thinks I am headstrong and insolent. I don't listen to him, as he would like me to. I think he's haughty and self-consumed, but somehow we just-we just can't keep away."
Eowyn smiled, "By the looks of it, one could never tell."
Geniveve smiled in return, "I think our abrasiveness is a large part of it."
Eowyn sat next to Geniveve and turned serious, "What about his immortality?"
Geniveve knew that this was as good of time as any. This is when she should tell Eowyn. So she told her everything; waking up in Rivendell, seeing her own death in Galadriel's mirror, Ivy and Christopher returning home, her madness and her immortality.
As Geniveve finished her tale, Eowyn looked at her in a slightly slack- jawed manner. Geniveve waited uncertainly as Eowyn processed the tale. Finally, she spoke, "Almost unbelievable. But I believe you Evangeline."
Geniveve smiled, "It's a strange tale. I still expect to wake up and find that it is all a dream. That I am in my own bed with my mother, father and brother downstairs eating breakfast, waiting for me."
Eowyn squeezed her hand; "You must miss them very much."
Geniveve nodded, "I do. Eowyn, try to sleep. I will see you in the morning."
Geniveve rose and walked to the door. Eowyn bid her goodnight and she walked down the hall in tears, knowing what she must tell Legolas when they next meet.
~~
The next day came the same as the day before. Geniveve longed for something to do; her fingers itched with idleness. She roamed the corridors of Meduseld aimlessly, almost hoping for a hand to reach out and grab her.
She visited the horses so often; she thought that they might pitch the apples she gave to them back at her. As she walked back to the Golden Hall in the late afternoon, she heard the all too familiar sound of swords clanking. She picked up her skirts and ran inside to see what was happening.
Inside the hall, Geniveve spied Dascha and Eowyn sparring. She leaned against the wall and watched as they maneuvered around each other. Dascha's face was twisted in concentration while Eowyn's remained quite calm. Geniveve smiled at the sight and enjoyed watching.
Eowyn caught a glimpse of her in the corner and waved, "Come Evangeline. Come and have a go!"
Geniveve shook her head, "No. It's all right. You and Telvilya keep going."
Eowyn walked to Geniveve and took her by the wrist; she pulled her to the middle of the room and handed her a thick, broad blade. Geniveve trembled furiously at the thought of fighting Eowyn, even with the friendly notion of sparring.
"No worries, Evangeline. You have felled two enemies before; I'm sure you'll have no problems."
Geniveve smiled wryly and swallowed hard. Perspiration clung to her palms. For the rest of the afternoon, the girls sparred. Geniveve improved quite a bit, thanks to Eowyn's guidance.
Three days passed, and Geniveve would rise with aches embedded in her bones and exhausted muscles. They gathered everyday in the hall to practice, keep active, and prevent boredom. Over the days, Geniveve noticed a healthy color in her cheeks, a color that she had not seen since they arrived in Rivendell; and her appetite had increased as well as the confidence she now had with her blade.
On the fourth night after the Rohirrim's departure, Geniveve awoke with a start. Horrible dreams plagued her. Dreams of her brother, Christopher and seagulls. He warned her of them. The dreams left her with dreadful feelings of loneliness and loss. Whatever did they mean?
She pulled herself from the tangle of her bed and brushed her hair. As Geniveve turned to go behind the dressing screen, she noticed that Dascha's bed was already vacant. Her eyes then strayed to the window, where the sun did not shine bright and blinding as it did in the mornings, but a buttery, orange-tinged glow usually seen with the closing of the afternoon. Geniveve could not suppress the gape from passing on her face. Had she slept the entire day?
She dressed in a deep burgundy dress that Eowyn had brought her the previous day and pulled the front part of her hair back and ran down to the main hall, where Dascha and Eowyn sat chatting. Geniveve slid to a halt and looked at the pair incredulously, "What time is it?"
Eowyn raised an eyebrow and then smiled, "Ah, Evangeline. I see that you are awake! As for your question, it is not far from supper."
Geniveve groaned and fell into the chair next to Dascha, who looked at her humorously, "I tried to wake you, but you fought me off. So I just left you alone."
Geniveve shook her head, "Sorry."
Eowyn smiled brightly, "No worries, Evangeline. However, I am sure that you are quite hungry."
Geniveve nodded wearily and looked as the sun waned into the horizon. Dusk had fallen so quickly. Suddenly, Geniveve caught the faint sound of hooves, many hooves in the dirt. Eowyn looked at her curiously, "What's wrong, Evangeline?"
"Ssh. Do you hear that?"
They all fell silent and listened. The hooves sounded closer and Eowyn looked at Geniveve with wide eyes, "Someone's coming."
Geniveve nodded, "It sounds like a whole lot of someones."
They sprang to their feet and ran to the main door. Geniveve's eyes flickered wildly, "Should we be armed?"
Dascha nodded, "I think so."
Eowyn shook her head, "Let's have a look first, shall we?"
They opened the thick door and stuck their heads out cautiously. In the near distance, Geniveve made out a pack of men riding toward the Golden Hall. As they neared, Geniveve recognized two familiar forms riding on one horse.
Geniveve smiled brilliantly, "It's them. I see Legolas and Gimli."
Eowyn smiled as well, "And I Lord Aragorn."
They opened the door wide and watched as the company dismounted their horses. Aragorn led the way as they walked the steps up to the Golden Hall, "Hail, Lady Eowyn!"
"Hail, Lord Aragorn. It brings happiness to see you well."
Aragorn nodded and then turned to Dascha and Geniveve, "Ladies."
Geniveve and Dascha replied almost in unison, "Hello Aragorn."
Dascha turned and walked with the flow that swelled in the main hall as Geniveve waited behind for Gimli and Legolas. Gimli smiled at her, "Hullo Lassie!
Geniveve embraced him, "Hello Gimli. You seem to be in good spirits."
Gimli chuckled, "I beat Legolas's count."
Geniveve wrinkled her brow, "Count?"
"Kills! How many enemies I felled with my axe."
"Oh. Uh, congratulations?"
Gimli thanked her and walked into the hall. Geniveve turned her attention to Legolas, whose fair face seemed to never be weary or tired, "I'm glad to see you so soon."
Legolas nodded, "Indeed, but we will probably leave at dawn."
Geniveve smiled, "Even so, I'm glad to see you."
Legolas touched her cheek; "You look well. Rohan seems to suit you."
She nodded, "It's very nice here, very hospitable. But-it's not--"
Legolas looked concerned, "It's not what?"
Geniveve could take it no longer so she wrapped her arms around him and buried her head near his shoulder. Legolas held her close, a bit confused by her emotions, "Are you alright Geniveve?"
She sighed. She was wonderful at the moment. She nodded against his shoulder and breathed deeply, "I'm fine, really."
Legolas held her at arm length and saw freckles of tears on her face; "You are worrying me, Geniveve. You are acting quite odd."
Geniveve agreed, "I know. I'm sorry."
She leaned in quickly and kissed his lips. Legolas's heart skipped in pace as he kissed her in return. She was an odd creature, but she seemed to intoxicate him, nearly driving him to the point of losing reason. He couldn't explain it, and he knew that she couldn't either.
As they kissed, Legolas felt Geniveve turn feverish. Her hands traveled up his back and tangled in his hair. What would happen to them after the war was over; for good or ill? Would this continue? Or would it be a passing thing for her? Should he ask her to come with him? Would she consent?
Is this mere infatuation or is this--is this-
Suddenly, Geniveve pulled away and looked up at him, "Legolas, I-"
He waited for her words. She seemed afraid.
"I, uh, I-I think the others will be wondering where you are."
Legolas nodded, knowing that is not what Geniveve truly wanted to say to him, "Then we shall go inside."
As they walked inside, Geniveve linked herself to Legolas's arm. She spoke softly, "Where are the others?"
"Gandalf rode to Minas Tirith with Pippin."
"Pippin?"
A smile washed over Geniveve at the thought of the hobbit. Legolas nodded, "Aye, we found he and Merry at Isengard, raiding Saruman's rations. Merry is with King Theoden and the Rohirrim. They are taking a different passage."
Geniveve grinned, knowing that she would see Merry within days. As they neared the doors of the main hall, she let go of Legolas's arm. As she looked inside, Geniveve spotted Eowyn, Dascha, Gimli and Aragorn amongst the Dunedain. She spotted two fair-faced creatures with dark hair at the table as well. They were Elves.
Geniveve lowered her voice, "Who are they? The elves, I mean?"
Legolas gave a small smile, "The sons of Elrond. Elladad and Elrohir."
She nodded with recognition. She should've known that in her ordinary world, but it had slipped her mind.
~~
The meal was filled with conversation and vivid detail of the events of Helm's Deep. Geniveve, Dascha and Eowyn were rapt with attention for the stories. Geniveve could not believe that four days had passed, for the company had stories that could collectively fill up a year of activity.
It all went smoothly, until Aragorn told Eowyn that he was going to travel through the Paths of the Dead. Eowyn looked quite displeased and downright fearful. Her smooth pale face lightly contorted with the news, however only few seemed to notice. She begged him to wait for Eomer's return.
Geniveve felt like a damp, cold blanket had been wrapped around her shoulders. Eowyn was in pain. She could feel it from where she sat. The rest of the meal was silent as a walk through a cemetery. Geniveve felt a great relief as Eowyn rose and the company departed for what little rest they could gain before their journey in the morning.
As she went to where Legolas was to rest, she was kept in the shadows a while, watching Eowyn confronting Aragorn about his seemingly dangerous decision. Geniveve's heart broke for Eowyn, for she knew what the shield maiden did not.
Eowyn begged Aragorn to let her join them, to fight with them. He informed her that her duty was with her people. When Eowyn heard the word "duty," it was enraging. Her eyes widened and her fists clenched a little. Geniveve knew exactly how she felt; it was how she felt when Ivy told her to loosen up. However, Geniveve would do just about anything to be with Ivy so she could say it again.
She lingered in the darkness for minutes, waiting for Eowyn and Aragorn to retreat. When they finally did, Geniveve could not bear to go to their lodgings and disturb them, as weary as they seemed. So she walked down the corridors of Meduseld and to her quarters. Dascha was already there, lying on her bed wide-awake.
"You went to see Legolas, no?"
Geniveve changed behind the screen into the robe from Rivendell. She rolled her eyes gently at her friend's question, "Of course. Well, at least I tried to. I saw Eowyn and Aragorn have words."
Dascha continued to look at the ceiling, "When the war is over, you will go with him. What will happen to me?"
Geniveve felt like she had been hit with a shovel across her face, "What are you talking about? That is ridiculous! I won't go anywhere without you, Dascha."
"What happens when that changes? We have changed much, no?"
Geniveve sat on her bed, bewildered by the interrogation; "Yes we have changed. But we are still friends. That won't change. Ever."
"We'll see."
~~
After Dascha went to bed, Geniveve left the room in a sleepless rage and ambled in her nightclothes, barefoot to the stables. Ireth and Taralom nuzzled her gently as she sat on a bale of hay with her head in her hands. Had she and Dascha grown apart? They had changed. Somewhere along the way, Geniveve had lost herself. She used to be that old-souled college student who was practical to the core. She found happiness in flowers and books and verses. She had a protective older brother, a wild-child best friend, and a foreign exchange student as an adopted sister.
Now she will live forever in a strange world, wrought with war and wonders that her world has never seen. Now she prepares herself with weapons and wears gowns. There are no books to catch her fancy and no family as a safety net. Here she has the Hobbits, Eowyn, Aragorn, Gimli, Ireth, Taralom, Dascha and Legolas.
Legolas.
No matter how much she tried, she could not rid him from her thoughts or her heart. Everything that has happened between them has happened against Geniveve's better judgement. She would never carry on with anyone like that in her ordinary world.
But the ordinary world will never have anyone like him. He is anything but ordinary. Of course, to call an Elf ordinary in any respect is quite the paradox. Geniveve never believed in fairytales. She wasn't a dreamy child. She didn't paint her room with unicorns and faeries. Since a young age Geniveve favored poetry and melancholy; tigerlillies and horseback riding. She didn't believe any of this could happen, until it did.
Yes, she had changed. Now she believes. Now she feels.
She sat there in the night, her toes curling with a slight chill. Suddenly she heard quiet footsteps approaching the barn. Footsteps that she knew so well. As Legolas stepped closer, Geniveve remained with her head in her hands and called thickly, "Hello Legolas."
Legolas was quite surprised that she heard him. He studied her as she sat in the stables. She looked drawn and stressed very much the opposite of what she was just hours before.
"Are you ill?"
"I should've known you'd follow me. You're becoming predictable."
Legolas stepped to a halt infront of her and looked at her inquisitively, "Have I done something to anger you?"
"No."
"Then what is it?"
"It's Dascha. I think we've grown apart."
"I don't think that has happened."
"I do."
Legolas knelt down by her and made her look at him, "Did you have words?"
Her green-gray eyes mustered all they could to avoid his, "Not so much. But she-she thinks that I am going to leave her. That we will separate."
Legolas felt confused, "Why?"
Geniveve swallowed hard, "She thinks that I will go with you when this is all over."
Legolas looked at her speechlessly. Geniveve began to tear up and looked away, "Of course I told her that was ridiculous."
His heart dropped a bit. It was a passing thing for her.
Geniveve's tears broke into a full stream, "But I lied to her. I lied to my best friend."
Legolas looked at Geniveve, his lungs bursting with anticipation and joy. He stammered a bit, trying to stay calm, "You lied?"
She nodded and met his gaze squarely; "I want that more than anything. I want to go with you. You are the closest thing I have to a home."
Legolas could not speak. All of his questions had been answered and all of his hopes had not proved feckless. Geniveve looked frightened by his silence, she feared that her revelations were too much.
"Legolas? Did I speak too freely?"
He cupped her face in his hands, their noses nearly touching, "I would have to be mad to say no to you, Geniveve. I want you with me."
She smiled a brilliant yet shy smile, her hands rested on his neck and her forehead touched his; "What about Dascha?"
Legolas sighed, "She is more than welcome to come along, if she wants to."
Geniveve kissed his cheek and they sat together in the soft hay for the rest of the night in happy silence.
~~
A/N: Just as things get happy, there is trouble in paradise. Dascha and Geniveve fight, Eowyn rides into battle, and there are deaths.only one more chapter in this second part, then the third part of the Evangeline series will begin.
Please let me know how I am doing! Read and Review!
--Leah P.
A/N: This story is the second part of "The Evangeline Series," the first part being found in the story "A Sorta Fairytale." Please read it and review if you have not already done so. Happy reading!
PART TWO OF THE EVANGELINE SERIES:
Judgement of the Moon and Stars
By Leah Pensotti
Chapter Six: An Ordinary World
Geniveve took a bite of bread and looked around the lonely, vacant hall of Meduseld. As evening fell on Rohan; Dascha, Eowyn and Geniveve ate their meal in a strange silence. They had spoken few words since the Rohirrim departed in the morning.
Geniveve became intensely aware of her own chewing. There wasn't much to do in Edoras. She had already checked on Ireth and Taralom three times and felt quite sure that they were becoming annoyed with her.
Suddenly, Eowyn rose and looked to the guests, "I'm sorry, friends. I am finished. If you would please excuse me."
Geniveve nodded, "Of course."
As Eowyn walked away, Dascha raised a questioning eyebrow, "What's wrong with her?"
Geniveve sighed, "She'd rather be with them. Out there in the rain with the Uruks, fighting for Rohan with her brother and uncle."
Dascha looked back to her food, "Oh."
Geniveve stood, "I'm going to go to bed. Are you almost done?"
Dascha nodded, "Yeah, I'll come too."
As they climbed the stairs to their quarters, Geniveve caught sight of Eowyn standing at a high window. She fell behind Dascha and bid her to go on, she would join her in a bit. Geniveve approached Eowyn cautiously and tried her best not to be intrusive.
"Are you alright, Eowyn?"
Eowyn did not turn to meet her, but faced the window, the wind and rain beat on her face, "I am well, Evangeline."
"No you're not."
Eowyn finally turned and met eyes with Geniveve. Her face and hair was dripping with rainwater, "There's Helm's Deep."
Geniveve looked through the window. She could see nothing, but decided to take Eowyn's word for it, "I know that you would rather be there."
Eowyn remained quiet. Geniveve could see the thoughts swimming through her head. Eowyn somberly looked at Geniveve again and nodded, "Yes."
A long silence fell over them and Eowyn eyed Geniveve curiously, "I saw you today. With the Elf."
Geniveve could feel her cheeks turn a deep pink, "Oh, Eowyn! I am so sorry if it was inappropriate."
Eowyn raised a hand to her, "No. Don't apologize. I was wondering if you, er, love him."
Geniveve repressed the shock. There was that blasted word again. She looked thoughtful for a moment, "I'm not sure."
Eowyn smiled, "Interesting."
Geniveve took her by her arm, "Come lady, you'll catch your death."
They walked to Eowyn's room and Geniveve sat on the large four-poster bed as Eowyn disappeared behind her dressing screen. Eowyn persistently asked questions, "How did you come to meet?"
Geniveve slouched slightly, "In Rivendell five months ago. Then later in Lothlorien."
Eowyn appeared at the side of the bed in her warm nightdress and robe.
"Did you know instantly?"
Geniveve frowned and then chuckled lightly, "You've got to understand, Eowyn. I am not sure of anything. I am still confused about-well, everything. To be perfectly honest, Legolas and I don't get along very well. We irritate each other so much. He thinks I am headstrong and insolent. I don't listen to him, as he would like me to. I think he's haughty and self-consumed, but somehow we just-we just can't keep away."
Eowyn smiled, "By the looks of it, one could never tell."
Geniveve smiled in return, "I think our abrasiveness is a large part of it."
Eowyn sat next to Geniveve and turned serious, "What about his immortality?"
Geniveve knew that this was as good of time as any. This is when she should tell Eowyn. So she told her everything; waking up in Rivendell, seeing her own death in Galadriel's mirror, Ivy and Christopher returning home, her madness and her immortality.
As Geniveve finished her tale, Eowyn looked at her in a slightly slack- jawed manner. Geniveve waited uncertainly as Eowyn processed the tale. Finally, she spoke, "Almost unbelievable. But I believe you Evangeline."
Geniveve smiled, "It's a strange tale. I still expect to wake up and find that it is all a dream. That I am in my own bed with my mother, father and brother downstairs eating breakfast, waiting for me."
Eowyn squeezed her hand; "You must miss them very much."
Geniveve nodded, "I do. Eowyn, try to sleep. I will see you in the morning."
Geniveve rose and walked to the door. Eowyn bid her goodnight and she walked down the hall in tears, knowing what she must tell Legolas when they next meet.
~~
The next day came the same as the day before. Geniveve longed for something to do; her fingers itched with idleness. She roamed the corridors of Meduseld aimlessly, almost hoping for a hand to reach out and grab her.
She visited the horses so often; she thought that they might pitch the apples she gave to them back at her. As she walked back to the Golden Hall in the late afternoon, she heard the all too familiar sound of swords clanking. She picked up her skirts and ran inside to see what was happening.
Inside the hall, Geniveve spied Dascha and Eowyn sparring. She leaned against the wall and watched as they maneuvered around each other. Dascha's face was twisted in concentration while Eowyn's remained quite calm. Geniveve smiled at the sight and enjoyed watching.
Eowyn caught a glimpse of her in the corner and waved, "Come Evangeline. Come and have a go!"
Geniveve shook her head, "No. It's all right. You and Telvilya keep going."
Eowyn walked to Geniveve and took her by the wrist; she pulled her to the middle of the room and handed her a thick, broad blade. Geniveve trembled furiously at the thought of fighting Eowyn, even with the friendly notion of sparring.
"No worries, Evangeline. You have felled two enemies before; I'm sure you'll have no problems."
Geniveve smiled wryly and swallowed hard. Perspiration clung to her palms. For the rest of the afternoon, the girls sparred. Geniveve improved quite a bit, thanks to Eowyn's guidance.
Three days passed, and Geniveve would rise with aches embedded in her bones and exhausted muscles. They gathered everyday in the hall to practice, keep active, and prevent boredom. Over the days, Geniveve noticed a healthy color in her cheeks, a color that she had not seen since they arrived in Rivendell; and her appetite had increased as well as the confidence she now had with her blade.
On the fourth night after the Rohirrim's departure, Geniveve awoke with a start. Horrible dreams plagued her. Dreams of her brother, Christopher and seagulls. He warned her of them. The dreams left her with dreadful feelings of loneliness and loss. Whatever did they mean?
She pulled herself from the tangle of her bed and brushed her hair. As Geniveve turned to go behind the dressing screen, she noticed that Dascha's bed was already vacant. Her eyes then strayed to the window, where the sun did not shine bright and blinding as it did in the mornings, but a buttery, orange-tinged glow usually seen with the closing of the afternoon. Geniveve could not suppress the gape from passing on her face. Had she slept the entire day?
She dressed in a deep burgundy dress that Eowyn had brought her the previous day and pulled the front part of her hair back and ran down to the main hall, where Dascha and Eowyn sat chatting. Geniveve slid to a halt and looked at the pair incredulously, "What time is it?"
Eowyn raised an eyebrow and then smiled, "Ah, Evangeline. I see that you are awake! As for your question, it is not far from supper."
Geniveve groaned and fell into the chair next to Dascha, who looked at her humorously, "I tried to wake you, but you fought me off. So I just left you alone."
Geniveve shook her head, "Sorry."
Eowyn smiled brightly, "No worries, Evangeline. However, I am sure that you are quite hungry."
Geniveve nodded wearily and looked as the sun waned into the horizon. Dusk had fallen so quickly. Suddenly, Geniveve caught the faint sound of hooves, many hooves in the dirt. Eowyn looked at her curiously, "What's wrong, Evangeline?"
"Ssh. Do you hear that?"
They all fell silent and listened. The hooves sounded closer and Eowyn looked at Geniveve with wide eyes, "Someone's coming."
Geniveve nodded, "It sounds like a whole lot of someones."
They sprang to their feet and ran to the main door. Geniveve's eyes flickered wildly, "Should we be armed?"
Dascha nodded, "I think so."
Eowyn shook her head, "Let's have a look first, shall we?"
They opened the thick door and stuck their heads out cautiously. In the near distance, Geniveve made out a pack of men riding toward the Golden Hall. As they neared, Geniveve recognized two familiar forms riding on one horse.
Geniveve smiled brilliantly, "It's them. I see Legolas and Gimli."
Eowyn smiled as well, "And I Lord Aragorn."
They opened the door wide and watched as the company dismounted their horses. Aragorn led the way as they walked the steps up to the Golden Hall, "Hail, Lady Eowyn!"
"Hail, Lord Aragorn. It brings happiness to see you well."
Aragorn nodded and then turned to Dascha and Geniveve, "Ladies."
Geniveve and Dascha replied almost in unison, "Hello Aragorn."
Dascha turned and walked with the flow that swelled in the main hall as Geniveve waited behind for Gimli and Legolas. Gimli smiled at her, "Hullo Lassie!
Geniveve embraced him, "Hello Gimli. You seem to be in good spirits."
Gimli chuckled, "I beat Legolas's count."
Geniveve wrinkled her brow, "Count?"
"Kills! How many enemies I felled with my axe."
"Oh. Uh, congratulations?"
Gimli thanked her and walked into the hall. Geniveve turned her attention to Legolas, whose fair face seemed to never be weary or tired, "I'm glad to see you so soon."
Legolas nodded, "Indeed, but we will probably leave at dawn."
Geniveve smiled, "Even so, I'm glad to see you."
Legolas touched her cheek; "You look well. Rohan seems to suit you."
She nodded, "It's very nice here, very hospitable. But-it's not--"
Legolas looked concerned, "It's not what?"
Geniveve could take it no longer so she wrapped her arms around him and buried her head near his shoulder. Legolas held her close, a bit confused by her emotions, "Are you alright Geniveve?"
She sighed. She was wonderful at the moment. She nodded against his shoulder and breathed deeply, "I'm fine, really."
Legolas held her at arm length and saw freckles of tears on her face; "You are worrying me, Geniveve. You are acting quite odd."
Geniveve agreed, "I know. I'm sorry."
She leaned in quickly and kissed his lips. Legolas's heart skipped in pace as he kissed her in return. She was an odd creature, but she seemed to intoxicate him, nearly driving him to the point of losing reason. He couldn't explain it, and he knew that she couldn't either.
As they kissed, Legolas felt Geniveve turn feverish. Her hands traveled up his back and tangled in his hair. What would happen to them after the war was over; for good or ill? Would this continue? Or would it be a passing thing for her? Should he ask her to come with him? Would she consent?
Is this mere infatuation or is this--is this-
Suddenly, Geniveve pulled away and looked up at him, "Legolas, I-"
He waited for her words. She seemed afraid.
"I, uh, I-I think the others will be wondering where you are."
Legolas nodded, knowing that is not what Geniveve truly wanted to say to him, "Then we shall go inside."
As they walked inside, Geniveve linked herself to Legolas's arm. She spoke softly, "Where are the others?"
"Gandalf rode to Minas Tirith with Pippin."
"Pippin?"
A smile washed over Geniveve at the thought of the hobbit. Legolas nodded, "Aye, we found he and Merry at Isengard, raiding Saruman's rations. Merry is with King Theoden and the Rohirrim. They are taking a different passage."
Geniveve grinned, knowing that she would see Merry within days. As they neared the doors of the main hall, she let go of Legolas's arm. As she looked inside, Geniveve spotted Eowyn, Dascha, Gimli and Aragorn amongst the Dunedain. She spotted two fair-faced creatures with dark hair at the table as well. They were Elves.
Geniveve lowered her voice, "Who are they? The elves, I mean?"
Legolas gave a small smile, "The sons of Elrond. Elladad and Elrohir."
She nodded with recognition. She should've known that in her ordinary world, but it had slipped her mind.
~~
The meal was filled with conversation and vivid detail of the events of Helm's Deep. Geniveve, Dascha and Eowyn were rapt with attention for the stories. Geniveve could not believe that four days had passed, for the company had stories that could collectively fill up a year of activity.
It all went smoothly, until Aragorn told Eowyn that he was going to travel through the Paths of the Dead. Eowyn looked quite displeased and downright fearful. Her smooth pale face lightly contorted with the news, however only few seemed to notice. She begged him to wait for Eomer's return.
Geniveve felt like a damp, cold blanket had been wrapped around her shoulders. Eowyn was in pain. She could feel it from where she sat. The rest of the meal was silent as a walk through a cemetery. Geniveve felt a great relief as Eowyn rose and the company departed for what little rest they could gain before their journey in the morning.
As she went to where Legolas was to rest, she was kept in the shadows a while, watching Eowyn confronting Aragorn about his seemingly dangerous decision. Geniveve's heart broke for Eowyn, for she knew what the shield maiden did not.
Eowyn begged Aragorn to let her join them, to fight with them. He informed her that her duty was with her people. When Eowyn heard the word "duty," it was enraging. Her eyes widened and her fists clenched a little. Geniveve knew exactly how she felt; it was how she felt when Ivy told her to loosen up. However, Geniveve would do just about anything to be with Ivy so she could say it again.
She lingered in the darkness for minutes, waiting for Eowyn and Aragorn to retreat. When they finally did, Geniveve could not bear to go to their lodgings and disturb them, as weary as they seemed. So she walked down the corridors of Meduseld and to her quarters. Dascha was already there, lying on her bed wide-awake.
"You went to see Legolas, no?"
Geniveve changed behind the screen into the robe from Rivendell. She rolled her eyes gently at her friend's question, "Of course. Well, at least I tried to. I saw Eowyn and Aragorn have words."
Dascha continued to look at the ceiling, "When the war is over, you will go with him. What will happen to me?"
Geniveve felt like she had been hit with a shovel across her face, "What are you talking about? That is ridiculous! I won't go anywhere without you, Dascha."
"What happens when that changes? We have changed much, no?"
Geniveve sat on her bed, bewildered by the interrogation; "Yes we have changed. But we are still friends. That won't change. Ever."
"We'll see."
~~
After Dascha went to bed, Geniveve left the room in a sleepless rage and ambled in her nightclothes, barefoot to the stables. Ireth and Taralom nuzzled her gently as she sat on a bale of hay with her head in her hands. Had she and Dascha grown apart? They had changed. Somewhere along the way, Geniveve had lost herself. She used to be that old-souled college student who was practical to the core. She found happiness in flowers and books and verses. She had a protective older brother, a wild-child best friend, and a foreign exchange student as an adopted sister.
Now she will live forever in a strange world, wrought with war and wonders that her world has never seen. Now she prepares herself with weapons and wears gowns. There are no books to catch her fancy and no family as a safety net. Here she has the Hobbits, Eowyn, Aragorn, Gimli, Ireth, Taralom, Dascha and Legolas.
Legolas.
No matter how much she tried, she could not rid him from her thoughts or her heart. Everything that has happened between them has happened against Geniveve's better judgement. She would never carry on with anyone like that in her ordinary world.
But the ordinary world will never have anyone like him. He is anything but ordinary. Of course, to call an Elf ordinary in any respect is quite the paradox. Geniveve never believed in fairytales. She wasn't a dreamy child. She didn't paint her room with unicorns and faeries. Since a young age Geniveve favored poetry and melancholy; tigerlillies and horseback riding. She didn't believe any of this could happen, until it did.
Yes, she had changed. Now she believes. Now she feels.
She sat there in the night, her toes curling with a slight chill. Suddenly she heard quiet footsteps approaching the barn. Footsteps that she knew so well. As Legolas stepped closer, Geniveve remained with her head in her hands and called thickly, "Hello Legolas."
Legolas was quite surprised that she heard him. He studied her as she sat in the stables. She looked drawn and stressed very much the opposite of what she was just hours before.
"Are you ill?"
"I should've known you'd follow me. You're becoming predictable."
Legolas stepped to a halt infront of her and looked at her inquisitively, "Have I done something to anger you?"
"No."
"Then what is it?"
"It's Dascha. I think we've grown apart."
"I don't think that has happened."
"I do."
Legolas knelt down by her and made her look at him, "Did you have words?"
Her green-gray eyes mustered all they could to avoid his, "Not so much. But she-she thinks that I am going to leave her. That we will separate."
Legolas felt confused, "Why?"
Geniveve swallowed hard, "She thinks that I will go with you when this is all over."
Legolas looked at her speechlessly. Geniveve began to tear up and looked away, "Of course I told her that was ridiculous."
His heart dropped a bit. It was a passing thing for her.
Geniveve's tears broke into a full stream, "But I lied to her. I lied to my best friend."
Legolas looked at Geniveve, his lungs bursting with anticipation and joy. He stammered a bit, trying to stay calm, "You lied?"
She nodded and met his gaze squarely; "I want that more than anything. I want to go with you. You are the closest thing I have to a home."
Legolas could not speak. All of his questions had been answered and all of his hopes had not proved feckless. Geniveve looked frightened by his silence, she feared that her revelations were too much.
"Legolas? Did I speak too freely?"
He cupped her face in his hands, their noses nearly touching, "I would have to be mad to say no to you, Geniveve. I want you with me."
She smiled a brilliant yet shy smile, her hands rested on his neck and her forehead touched his; "What about Dascha?"
Legolas sighed, "She is more than welcome to come along, if she wants to."
Geniveve kissed his cheek and they sat together in the soft hay for the rest of the night in happy silence.
~~
A/N: Just as things get happy, there is trouble in paradise. Dascha and Geniveve fight, Eowyn rides into battle, and there are deaths.only one more chapter in this second part, then the third part of the Evangeline series will begin.
Please let me know how I am doing! Read and Review!
--Leah P.