(A/N) Feanen, thanks for reviewing again. Saber apricot, thank you for
your support. Ryoko,Kilala, thanks for your review. Tamar piper thank you
too. Thank you all for all of the good reviews that I've been getting
lately. And now I'd like to thank all the little people who made this day
possible... Just kidding. Oh who cares! IT'S SHOW TIME!
For the Love of an Elf
Chapter 8: In the Shadows of the Tower of Guard
For four days Shadowfax galloped across the flat plains, finally reaching the country of Gondor. The three riders passed through the seven gates of the city and in for an audience with Lord Denethor, Steward of Gondor.
"Be careful of your words." Gandalf said to Pippin and Vanessa just before they entered the hall. "Theoden is a kindly old man, but Denethor is of a different sort, hard and proud. He will question you two more closely in hopes of learning of his son, Boromir. Denethor loved him dearly, too much perhaps. Say no more than you must. Also keep quiet the matter of Frodo and the ring, and do not mention Aragorn if you can help it."
"All right. If you insist," Vanessa said quietly.
"I do".
With that they entered the hall of Denethor, son of Ecthelion. At the end of the vast chamber there was a great throne set upon a dais of many steps, but it was empty. Behind the throne on the wall there was a carven image of a tree in flower set with jewels. On the very bottom step of the dais there was a stone chair that was completely unadorned. In the chair there sat an old man with a white staff.
"Hail, Lord and Steward of Minas Tirith, Denethor, son of Ecthelion! I am come with tidings and council in this dark hour." Gandalf said to him.
Denethor drew himself up to his full height and spoke to Gandalf. "Dark is the hour indeed that you are wont to come, Mithrandir. I am told that you have with you they who saw my son die. Are these them?" he asked, referring to Pippin and Vanessa.
"Indeed they are. But I am surprised to know that you already have news of this."
"I have this", Denethor said quietly. As he said this, he lifted from his lap a great wild-ox horn bound in silver, cloven in to two halves.
Pippin gasped. "That is the horn that Boromir always carried."
"It is", Denethor whispered brokenly. "Thirteen days ago I heard it calling away up on the northern marches and the river brought it to me, broken. It shall wind no more. What say you to that, halfling?" he asked Pippin.
"Boromir was a brave man. He fell defending me from orcs."
"And how is it that you escaped and he was slain? He was strong and how could a mere band of orcs bring him down?"
"Even the strongest of men may be slain with one arrow and Boromir was struck with many. After that I saw him no more for I passed out and was taken captive. He tried to save us and though he failed my gratitude is none the lesser. You may not think that a hobbit of such small stature could possibly be of much use but I shall gladly offer my services to you. However small they may be." With that Pippin brought forth his small sword, taken from the Barrow Downs, and he laid it at Denethor's feet.
"Many years are on this sword. No doubt this a work of our kin of old that has come out of the north."
"It was taken from the mounds that border my country, but only evil wights dwell there now. I will speak of it no more."
"Indeed you are brave, Master Hobbit. For you are not daunted by words. I shall gladly accept your services. Swear to me now."
"Take the hilt and speak after the Lord if you are resolved to this." Gandalf said to Pippin.
"I am". So Pippin too the hilt of the sword and said slowly after the Lord Denethor, "Here do I swear fealty and service to Gondor, and to the Lord and Steward of the realm, to speak and to be silent, to do and to let be, to come and to go, in need or in plenty, in peace or war, in living or dying, from this hour henceforth, until my lord release me, or death take me, or the world end. So say I, Peregrin, son of Paladin of the shire of the halflings."
"And this do I hear, Denethor, son of Ecthelion, Lord of Gondor, Steward of the high king, and I will not forget it, nor fail to reward that which is given: fealty with love, valor with honor, oathbreaking with vengeance." With that Pippin sheathed his sword and Gandalf told Denethor about the storming of Isengard.
When he had finished Denethor began to press Pippin for details about Boromir's death. After Pippin had finished his account he turned to Vanessa. "Why do you not speak, Falynn, keeper of the stone. You were there as well?"
Vanessa tried to keep the shock out of her voice. "I fought beside him but he fell and we were captured. That is really all that there is to say." Having said so she turned to Gandalf. There was no sign on his face but she could tell that Denethor's random comment had shaken him deeply. How could he possibly know who she was?
"Escort the Lord Mithrandir to the lodgings that have been prepared for him. His companions may stay with him if they wish but bear in mind that the halfling has sworn into my service and is at my command. Also might I say that a guest has arrived this morning that you would be very interested in seeing. She told me that if you should come to this place that she would see you in the stables."
"And who might this be?" Gandalf asked him.
"I will not say. You will soon see for yourselves." Denethor told them as they took their leave of him.
"Are you angry with me Gandalf?" Pippin asked when they were finally out of the building.
"Of course not. But Denethor may have learned more from you than you would wish. He has ways of learning the innermost thoughts of people. It is dangerous and difficult to try and deceive him. But be wary as you are now in his service and he will not forget it. You will most likely be on duty most of the time. But right now I am in haste. I am most anxious to find Faramir, Boromir's brother. He is now the heir of Denethor."
"Gandalf I must ask you, how do you think Denethor knew my name and purpose?" Vanessa asked him.
"I do not know. What troubling times are these. No one except for the Wise, Sauron, Legolas, and Luinethoniel knew about the stone and its keeper."
"By now they had reached their quarters and Gandalf had to leave almost immediately. "I must attend Denethor's council. But would one of you do me a favor? Please check up on Shadowfax." With that he left.
Pippin left to hunt down some breakfast and Vanessa decided that she would follow Gandalf's wishes and see to Shadowfax. It would give her an excuse to go to the stables. She wanted to see this guest that Denethor had spoken of.
When she had finally found her way to the stables she found that an Elf girl was already tending the stallion. When she looked up at Vanessa she felt a shock of familiarity.
The Elf came towards her and took her hand. "I am Princess Luinethoniel, sister to Prince Legolas of Mirkwood." The moment that the girl had walked into the stable Luinethoniel had recognized her as the girl from her vision.
"I am Falynn." Vanessa replied. It was going to be awhile before she was used to calling herself Falynn.
"Falynn! Really?" Luinethoniel asked in shock.
"Yes."
"Oh you have come back at last. Where have you been all these years? Have you seen Legolas yet?" A spurt of questions came forth from her mouth as she hugged Vanessa. At first Vanessa felt awkward but she began to remember how like sisters she and Luinethoniel had been and she hugged her back. Tears were now streaking down the Elf's face. It was almost as if they had never been apart.
"Yes I have seen him and I would hate to have to tell you this, but we have become closer than your father would like and I am carrying Legolas's child." At these words Vanessa hung her head, as if in shame.
"Oh Falynn. Do not worry, this is not as bad as it may seem. Have you told Legolas yet?"
"No. I've been trying and trying but I can't bring myself to do it. I'm afraid of what he will think."
"Do not worry Falynn, he loves you and he will understand. I am so happy that you have come back, we have been so alone since you left us. But I must ask where is Legolas now?"
"If I am not mistaken he is on the paths of the dead even as we speak."
"Why would he need to go there?" she asked, clearly concerned.
"Because he is following Aragorn."
"Ah, it makes sense now."
"So how is Shadowfax? Gandalf asked me to see to him."
"Just fine, he is a magnificent horse. Come, let us talk as sisters. For sisters is what we shall soon be."
Luinethoniel led Vanessa to her chamber and for the rest of the day they stayed there and got caught up on what had happened over the past 2,920 years. Vanessa finally told Luinethoniel about the world that she had been sent to.
"So you were called Vanessa. It must be so strange to have your true name back."
"It is, it will be awhile before I am used to it."
"There were no Elves or Dwarves or any such things in this world?"
"No, only humans dwell there. It's such a boring place to be honest. When I returned here I had no memory of the girl I once was. I met up with Legolas again at the council of Elrond and we both ended up on this quest. At first I hated him but as time wore on I grew to realize how much I loved him. When we passed through the mines of Moria I was injured by an orc arrow and when we reached Lothlorien he stayed by my side day and night until I was healed. While we were there, we made love, he and I. I will not say that I didn't enjoy it but I regret it all the same. I am not ready for this," Vanessa said as she patted her stomach.
"Oh it's all right Falynn. It will be okay."
At the end of the day Vanessa met up with Pippin in the room that they shared with Gandalf and they told each other about their day.
"I have seen Legolas's sister, Luinethoniel."
"Really? Is she the guest that Denethor spoke of?"
"Yes."
"Well I hope it's all right with her that you and Legolas are lovers." Pippin said with a teasing smile.
"Don't even go there Pippin." When he wouldn't shut up, Vanessa threw a pillow at him and a full-fledged pillow fight ensued. Eventually Vanessa got the upper hand and they both lay, laughing, on the floor.
"You know, this may be the last chance we'll have to laugh for awhile." Pippin said sadly, suddenly becoming serious. "When I went to look for a meal I ran into a guard called Beregond and he has informed me that the attack of Minas Morgul will come tomorrow. Also Faramir has come to Minas Tirith and he is in council with Denethor and Gandalf as we speak. I am afraid."
"Of what?" Vanessa asked him.
"I miss the Shire and I'm afraid that I will never see it again."
"Do not worry. You will survive this war and return to your home."
"What makes you so sure? How can you be so cheery? There is no hope left. They have said that we will be crushed."
"There is always hope Pippin. No matter how dark the night may be, the sun will always shine out again." With that she began to sing.
I've been wondering 'round in the dark
Like a shadow, my heart
I have known a pain so deep
But I know my faith will free me
And I'll get through this
No matter what they say
So don't tell me that it's over
Cause each step just gets me closer
I will get there
I will get there somehow
Cross that river
Nothing stopping me now
I will get through the night
And make it through to the other side
I've been in these chains for so long
I'll break free and I'll be there where I belong
Hold my head up high I'll stand tall
And I swear this time I won't fall
And I will do this
I'll find my way again
Cause I know no limitations
And I'll reach my destination
I will get there
I will get there somehow
Cross that river
Nothing stopping me now
I will get through the night
And make it through to the other side
Well the night is cold and dark
But somewhere the sun is shining
And I'll feel it shine on me
I'll keep trying
I will get there
I will get there somehow
Cross that river
Nothing stopping me now
I will get through the night
And make it through to the other side
I will get there
"Thank you Falynn. I feel much better now. That song has helped me more than you know." Having said this Pippin went to bed.
Vanessa stared after him. He had touched her with his words about the coming battle and his home. Maybe there was more to Peregrin Took than she had originally thought.
* *
*
"You have some skill with a blade." Aragorn said to Eowyn as he blocked her attack.
"Women of this country learned long ago that those without swords can still die upon them. I fear neither death nor pain." Eowyn told him as she leaped forward to deliver another blow.
"Then what do you fear my lady?"
"A cage. To stay behind bars until use and old age accept them, and all chance of valor has gone beyond recall or desire." Eowyn fought harder, trying to knock Aragorn's sword from his hands.
"You are a daughter of kings. A shield maiden of Rohan. I do not think that will be your fate." Aragorn finally managed to take her blade from her hand and knock her to the floor.
"Then why will you not let me go with you? I can fight!" Eowyn said as she pulled herself up from the ground.
"You must remain here and rule your people as Theoden wishes."
"But why must you take the paths of the dead?"
"Because it is the fastest route to Minas Tirith."
"But you won't come out alive. No one ever has." With that Eowyn left him.
Aragorn sheathed Anduril and thought about all that had happened since Gandalf and the others had ridden to Minas Tirith.
After they had parted ways, Theoden's riders had been overtaken by the gray company. A host of Rangers out of the North. Aragorn's kin. With them were the sons of Elrond, Elladan and Elrohir. Then Theoden's riders and Merry had taken the mountain road to Edoras. Aragorn had led the rangers, Legolas, and Gimli over the plains to Edoras. They had arrived there before Theoden. Not long before Eowyn had found him, against Gandalf's wishes, he had gazed into the Palantir of Orthanc and revealed himself to Sauron. The experience had greatly taxed his strength. Now Sauron would be searching for him. Aragorn could tell that Sauron was afraid. The dark lord would not soon forget the blade that had cut the one ring from his hand. But Aragorn was also afraid. Afraid that he had accidentally revealed to Sauron that Falynn lived and the stone of the wise was destroyed. He also feared that Sauron knew that she was with child. They were both in danger of being discovered. Now the gray company would soon ride into battle and Eowyn had approached him, begging to ride with them. When he refused she had drawn her sword in defiance of him.
At that moment Legolas and Gimli walked in.
"Is the company ready to ride?" he asked them.
"Yes, but there is something that I must ask. What are these paths of the dead that we are to travel? The Eorlingas seem to bare them ill will." Gimli said.
"When Elendil first came across the sea from Numenor and founded the realms of Gondor and Arnor, his son Isildur ruled the kingdom of Gondor. When the realm was young Isildur inlisted the aid of the wild men in the surrounding hills. They swore their allegiance to him. When Isildur came to them years later to ask for their help against Sauron they refused. For they had worshipped Sauron in the dark years."
"So Isildur said to their king, 'Ye shall be the last king. Upon you and your folk I place this curse. Until you have fulfilled your oath your souls shall never find rest.' With that the wild men fled from Isildur and his rage. They remained hidden in the caves and did not give aid to Sauron or Gondor. So there in the mountains where they once dwelt their spirits still linger, unable to have peace until they have fulfilled their oath." As he finished his tale Aragorn turned to his two companions. "I do not ask that anyone come with me. You will find hard toil and fear on the paths of the dead. Only I may walk there without fear. We must have their help to defeat the hosts of Mordor."
"I will go with you. I do not fear the ghosts of men." Legolas said calmly.
"I will follow as well. To whatever end." Gimli said.
"There is something else that I must tell you. Just now I have revealed myself to Sauron in the stone of Orthanc. Legolas, I fear that I have also revealed Falynn and your child to him without meaning to. I'm sorry."
For a moment Legolas turned his face away from them. When he finally turned back to them his face was grave but composed. "Then we must hurry and reach Minas Tirith. Falynn is in great danger if what you say is true."
With that the three friends strode forth from the golden hall and out to where the gray company waited. Aragorn mounted his own horse and Legolas and Gimli mounted Arod.
"Forward Dunedain! We ride to the paths of the deed!" Aragorn cried as he rode forth out of the city gates.
As they rode out Eowyn came out of the house of Meduseld and watched them ride away from the city, away from her. Aragorn turned back one last time and he saw her standing at the gateway. He turned away so that he wouldn't see the tears gathering in her eyes. Only those who were close to him and knew him well saw the pain that he bore.
* *
*
Vanessa sat in front of a mirror in the rooms that she shared with Gandalf and Pippin. Gandalf had left early that morning to take council with Denethor and Faramir once more before the battle. The host of Minas Morgul had been seen on the march towards Minas Tirith. They were being led by the witch king, the head of the black riders. Pippin had left a little while after Gandalf to attend to Denethor. The storm would soon break over the city. She knew how it would end. But she was still afraid.
Vanessa wanted to fight, but she knew by now that she had no true skill with a weapon. Besides, she could not risk the life of her unborn child. She gently placed a hand on her stomach and sighed. She suddenly felt a well of love deep within her heart. Love for the child that would be born in a few months' time. Love for the Elf who had joined with her to fashion this new life. Sisterly love for Luinethoniel. For a few precious moments she forgot about the battle to come. Until Luinethoniel came in and broke into her thoughts.
"You are not thinking of going out there are you?" She asked Vanessa.
"No. I couldn't possibly risk it." She answered softly.
"That is good. You always were quick to fight. I was afraid I might have to stop you from going. Especially in your condition. The battle has already begun. They are upon us. I must ride out now." Luinethoniel told her.
"WHAT?" Vanessa shouted. "They are here already?"
"Yes, the men are already out in the fields. Prince Imrahil of Dol Amroth has arrived. He, Mithrandir, and Faramir are leading them. Denethor is in his hall. We cannot possibly hope to defeat them. I only hope that the Riders of Rohan will come in time."
"You are going to fight?" Vanessa asked in a shocked voice.
"I am, but I must be swift about it. I fear that Thangoruil will try and stop me."
At this, Vanessa began to laugh hysterically. "Go then if you must Luinethoniel. You may not have another chance."
"All right then. I will see you when it is over. Hopefully Legolas will have arrived by then." With that Luinethoniel left her.
After awhile, Vanessa headed towards the walls of the city to watch the battle from there.
As she watched she began to pick out different figures, Gandalf, and one whom she assumed was the prince, Imrahil. Suddenly she saw Faramir fall. She knew that he was not dead, only stung by a poisonous dart. But she could not help crying out all the same. She watched as soldiers bore Faramir into the city and to the halls of Denethor.
"Fools. They should take him to the houses of healing, not to his father." She said to herself.
For the rest of that day and night Vanessa watched the fight. She desperately wanted to run from the horror of it all but she could not bring herself to pull away as brave men fought and died.
But at the dawning of the new day, a great horn was heard from out of the north. Rohan had come at last.
Vanessa heard in the distance, the voice of Theoden, Lord of the mark. "FORTH EORLINGAS! FORTH! FEAR NO DARKNESS! TO ME! TO ME!!"
That was when the Lord of the Nazgul descended upon them. The horses of the Mark fled in terror, bearing their riders into the battle. The witch king flew down on the strange, winged beast that he rode and faced Theoden.
Vanessa knew that the King's end had come but she still wanted to save him. What would change if Theoden lived? Maybe there was still a chance to save him. Quickly Vanessa climbed down the wall and ran forth from the gates of the city. When all men ran from the wraith she ran towards him. Hoping against hope to change history.
Maybe there was still time.
* *
* (A/N) Sorry for waiting so long to update but high school has started. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I probably won't be updating as much as I used to. I'll be keeping you in suspense for as long as possible. MWHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!! Just kidding, I'll update as much as I can.
For the Love of an Elf
Chapter 8: In the Shadows of the Tower of Guard
For four days Shadowfax galloped across the flat plains, finally reaching the country of Gondor. The three riders passed through the seven gates of the city and in for an audience with Lord Denethor, Steward of Gondor.
"Be careful of your words." Gandalf said to Pippin and Vanessa just before they entered the hall. "Theoden is a kindly old man, but Denethor is of a different sort, hard and proud. He will question you two more closely in hopes of learning of his son, Boromir. Denethor loved him dearly, too much perhaps. Say no more than you must. Also keep quiet the matter of Frodo and the ring, and do not mention Aragorn if you can help it."
"All right. If you insist," Vanessa said quietly.
"I do".
With that they entered the hall of Denethor, son of Ecthelion. At the end of the vast chamber there was a great throne set upon a dais of many steps, but it was empty. Behind the throne on the wall there was a carven image of a tree in flower set with jewels. On the very bottom step of the dais there was a stone chair that was completely unadorned. In the chair there sat an old man with a white staff.
"Hail, Lord and Steward of Minas Tirith, Denethor, son of Ecthelion! I am come with tidings and council in this dark hour." Gandalf said to him.
Denethor drew himself up to his full height and spoke to Gandalf. "Dark is the hour indeed that you are wont to come, Mithrandir. I am told that you have with you they who saw my son die. Are these them?" he asked, referring to Pippin and Vanessa.
"Indeed they are. But I am surprised to know that you already have news of this."
"I have this", Denethor said quietly. As he said this, he lifted from his lap a great wild-ox horn bound in silver, cloven in to two halves.
Pippin gasped. "That is the horn that Boromir always carried."
"It is", Denethor whispered brokenly. "Thirteen days ago I heard it calling away up on the northern marches and the river brought it to me, broken. It shall wind no more. What say you to that, halfling?" he asked Pippin.
"Boromir was a brave man. He fell defending me from orcs."
"And how is it that you escaped and he was slain? He was strong and how could a mere band of orcs bring him down?"
"Even the strongest of men may be slain with one arrow and Boromir was struck with many. After that I saw him no more for I passed out and was taken captive. He tried to save us and though he failed my gratitude is none the lesser. You may not think that a hobbit of such small stature could possibly be of much use but I shall gladly offer my services to you. However small they may be." With that Pippin brought forth his small sword, taken from the Barrow Downs, and he laid it at Denethor's feet.
"Many years are on this sword. No doubt this a work of our kin of old that has come out of the north."
"It was taken from the mounds that border my country, but only evil wights dwell there now. I will speak of it no more."
"Indeed you are brave, Master Hobbit. For you are not daunted by words. I shall gladly accept your services. Swear to me now."
"Take the hilt and speak after the Lord if you are resolved to this." Gandalf said to Pippin.
"I am". So Pippin too the hilt of the sword and said slowly after the Lord Denethor, "Here do I swear fealty and service to Gondor, and to the Lord and Steward of the realm, to speak and to be silent, to do and to let be, to come and to go, in need or in plenty, in peace or war, in living or dying, from this hour henceforth, until my lord release me, or death take me, or the world end. So say I, Peregrin, son of Paladin of the shire of the halflings."
"And this do I hear, Denethor, son of Ecthelion, Lord of Gondor, Steward of the high king, and I will not forget it, nor fail to reward that which is given: fealty with love, valor with honor, oathbreaking with vengeance." With that Pippin sheathed his sword and Gandalf told Denethor about the storming of Isengard.
When he had finished Denethor began to press Pippin for details about Boromir's death. After Pippin had finished his account he turned to Vanessa. "Why do you not speak, Falynn, keeper of the stone. You were there as well?"
Vanessa tried to keep the shock out of her voice. "I fought beside him but he fell and we were captured. That is really all that there is to say." Having said so she turned to Gandalf. There was no sign on his face but she could tell that Denethor's random comment had shaken him deeply. How could he possibly know who she was?
"Escort the Lord Mithrandir to the lodgings that have been prepared for him. His companions may stay with him if they wish but bear in mind that the halfling has sworn into my service and is at my command. Also might I say that a guest has arrived this morning that you would be very interested in seeing. She told me that if you should come to this place that she would see you in the stables."
"And who might this be?" Gandalf asked him.
"I will not say. You will soon see for yourselves." Denethor told them as they took their leave of him.
"Are you angry with me Gandalf?" Pippin asked when they were finally out of the building.
"Of course not. But Denethor may have learned more from you than you would wish. He has ways of learning the innermost thoughts of people. It is dangerous and difficult to try and deceive him. But be wary as you are now in his service and he will not forget it. You will most likely be on duty most of the time. But right now I am in haste. I am most anxious to find Faramir, Boromir's brother. He is now the heir of Denethor."
"Gandalf I must ask you, how do you think Denethor knew my name and purpose?" Vanessa asked him.
"I do not know. What troubling times are these. No one except for the Wise, Sauron, Legolas, and Luinethoniel knew about the stone and its keeper."
"By now they had reached their quarters and Gandalf had to leave almost immediately. "I must attend Denethor's council. But would one of you do me a favor? Please check up on Shadowfax." With that he left.
Pippin left to hunt down some breakfast and Vanessa decided that she would follow Gandalf's wishes and see to Shadowfax. It would give her an excuse to go to the stables. She wanted to see this guest that Denethor had spoken of.
When she had finally found her way to the stables she found that an Elf girl was already tending the stallion. When she looked up at Vanessa she felt a shock of familiarity.
The Elf came towards her and took her hand. "I am Princess Luinethoniel, sister to Prince Legolas of Mirkwood." The moment that the girl had walked into the stable Luinethoniel had recognized her as the girl from her vision.
"I am Falynn." Vanessa replied. It was going to be awhile before she was used to calling herself Falynn.
"Falynn! Really?" Luinethoniel asked in shock.
"Yes."
"Oh you have come back at last. Where have you been all these years? Have you seen Legolas yet?" A spurt of questions came forth from her mouth as she hugged Vanessa. At first Vanessa felt awkward but she began to remember how like sisters she and Luinethoniel had been and she hugged her back. Tears were now streaking down the Elf's face. It was almost as if they had never been apart.
"Yes I have seen him and I would hate to have to tell you this, but we have become closer than your father would like and I am carrying Legolas's child." At these words Vanessa hung her head, as if in shame.
"Oh Falynn. Do not worry, this is not as bad as it may seem. Have you told Legolas yet?"
"No. I've been trying and trying but I can't bring myself to do it. I'm afraid of what he will think."
"Do not worry Falynn, he loves you and he will understand. I am so happy that you have come back, we have been so alone since you left us. But I must ask where is Legolas now?"
"If I am not mistaken he is on the paths of the dead even as we speak."
"Why would he need to go there?" she asked, clearly concerned.
"Because he is following Aragorn."
"Ah, it makes sense now."
"So how is Shadowfax? Gandalf asked me to see to him."
"Just fine, he is a magnificent horse. Come, let us talk as sisters. For sisters is what we shall soon be."
Luinethoniel led Vanessa to her chamber and for the rest of the day they stayed there and got caught up on what had happened over the past 2,920 years. Vanessa finally told Luinethoniel about the world that she had been sent to.
"So you were called Vanessa. It must be so strange to have your true name back."
"It is, it will be awhile before I am used to it."
"There were no Elves or Dwarves or any such things in this world?"
"No, only humans dwell there. It's such a boring place to be honest. When I returned here I had no memory of the girl I once was. I met up with Legolas again at the council of Elrond and we both ended up on this quest. At first I hated him but as time wore on I grew to realize how much I loved him. When we passed through the mines of Moria I was injured by an orc arrow and when we reached Lothlorien he stayed by my side day and night until I was healed. While we were there, we made love, he and I. I will not say that I didn't enjoy it but I regret it all the same. I am not ready for this," Vanessa said as she patted her stomach.
"Oh it's all right Falynn. It will be okay."
At the end of the day Vanessa met up with Pippin in the room that they shared with Gandalf and they told each other about their day.
"I have seen Legolas's sister, Luinethoniel."
"Really? Is she the guest that Denethor spoke of?"
"Yes."
"Well I hope it's all right with her that you and Legolas are lovers." Pippin said with a teasing smile.
"Don't even go there Pippin." When he wouldn't shut up, Vanessa threw a pillow at him and a full-fledged pillow fight ensued. Eventually Vanessa got the upper hand and they both lay, laughing, on the floor.
"You know, this may be the last chance we'll have to laugh for awhile." Pippin said sadly, suddenly becoming serious. "When I went to look for a meal I ran into a guard called Beregond and he has informed me that the attack of Minas Morgul will come tomorrow. Also Faramir has come to Minas Tirith and he is in council with Denethor and Gandalf as we speak. I am afraid."
"Of what?" Vanessa asked him.
"I miss the Shire and I'm afraid that I will never see it again."
"Do not worry. You will survive this war and return to your home."
"What makes you so sure? How can you be so cheery? There is no hope left. They have said that we will be crushed."
"There is always hope Pippin. No matter how dark the night may be, the sun will always shine out again." With that she began to sing.
I've been wondering 'round in the dark
Like a shadow, my heart
I have known a pain so deep
But I know my faith will free me
And I'll get through this
No matter what they say
So don't tell me that it's over
Cause each step just gets me closer
I will get there
I will get there somehow
Cross that river
Nothing stopping me now
I will get through the night
And make it through to the other side
I've been in these chains for so long
I'll break free and I'll be there where I belong
Hold my head up high I'll stand tall
And I swear this time I won't fall
And I will do this
I'll find my way again
Cause I know no limitations
And I'll reach my destination
I will get there
I will get there somehow
Cross that river
Nothing stopping me now
I will get through the night
And make it through to the other side
Well the night is cold and dark
But somewhere the sun is shining
And I'll feel it shine on me
I'll keep trying
I will get there
I will get there somehow
Cross that river
Nothing stopping me now
I will get through the night
And make it through to the other side
I will get there
"Thank you Falynn. I feel much better now. That song has helped me more than you know." Having said this Pippin went to bed.
Vanessa stared after him. He had touched her with his words about the coming battle and his home. Maybe there was more to Peregrin Took than she had originally thought.
* *
*
"You have some skill with a blade." Aragorn said to Eowyn as he blocked her attack.
"Women of this country learned long ago that those without swords can still die upon them. I fear neither death nor pain." Eowyn told him as she leaped forward to deliver another blow.
"Then what do you fear my lady?"
"A cage. To stay behind bars until use and old age accept them, and all chance of valor has gone beyond recall or desire." Eowyn fought harder, trying to knock Aragorn's sword from his hands.
"You are a daughter of kings. A shield maiden of Rohan. I do not think that will be your fate." Aragorn finally managed to take her blade from her hand and knock her to the floor.
"Then why will you not let me go with you? I can fight!" Eowyn said as she pulled herself up from the ground.
"You must remain here and rule your people as Theoden wishes."
"But why must you take the paths of the dead?"
"Because it is the fastest route to Minas Tirith."
"But you won't come out alive. No one ever has." With that Eowyn left him.
Aragorn sheathed Anduril and thought about all that had happened since Gandalf and the others had ridden to Minas Tirith.
After they had parted ways, Theoden's riders had been overtaken by the gray company. A host of Rangers out of the North. Aragorn's kin. With them were the sons of Elrond, Elladan and Elrohir. Then Theoden's riders and Merry had taken the mountain road to Edoras. Aragorn had led the rangers, Legolas, and Gimli over the plains to Edoras. They had arrived there before Theoden. Not long before Eowyn had found him, against Gandalf's wishes, he had gazed into the Palantir of Orthanc and revealed himself to Sauron. The experience had greatly taxed his strength. Now Sauron would be searching for him. Aragorn could tell that Sauron was afraid. The dark lord would not soon forget the blade that had cut the one ring from his hand. But Aragorn was also afraid. Afraid that he had accidentally revealed to Sauron that Falynn lived and the stone of the wise was destroyed. He also feared that Sauron knew that she was with child. They were both in danger of being discovered. Now the gray company would soon ride into battle and Eowyn had approached him, begging to ride with them. When he refused she had drawn her sword in defiance of him.
At that moment Legolas and Gimli walked in.
"Is the company ready to ride?" he asked them.
"Yes, but there is something that I must ask. What are these paths of the dead that we are to travel? The Eorlingas seem to bare them ill will." Gimli said.
"When Elendil first came across the sea from Numenor and founded the realms of Gondor and Arnor, his son Isildur ruled the kingdom of Gondor. When the realm was young Isildur inlisted the aid of the wild men in the surrounding hills. They swore their allegiance to him. When Isildur came to them years later to ask for their help against Sauron they refused. For they had worshipped Sauron in the dark years."
"So Isildur said to their king, 'Ye shall be the last king. Upon you and your folk I place this curse. Until you have fulfilled your oath your souls shall never find rest.' With that the wild men fled from Isildur and his rage. They remained hidden in the caves and did not give aid to Sauron or Gondor. So there in the mountains where they once dwelt their spirits still linger, unable to have peace until they have fulfilled their oath." As he finished his tale Aragorn turned to his two companions. "I do not ask that anyone come with me. You will find hard toil and fear on the paths of the dead. Only I may walk there without fear. We must have their help to defeat the hosts of Mordor."
"I will go with you. I do not fear the ghosts of men." Legolas said calmly.
"I will follow as well. To whatever end." Gimli said.
"There is something else that I must tell you. Just now I have revealed myself to Sauron in the stone of Orthanc. Legolas, I fear that I have also revealed Falynn and your child to him without meaning to. I'm sorry."
For a moment Legolas turned his face away from them. When he finally turned back to them his face was grave but composed. "Then we must hurry and reach Minas Tirith. Falynn is in great danger if what you say is true."
With that the three friends strode forth from the golden hall and out to where the gray company waited. Aragorn mounted his own horse and Legolas and Gimli mounted Arod.
"Forward Dunedain! We ride to the paths of the deed!" Aragorn cried as he rode forth out of the city gates.
As they rode out Eowyn came out of the house of Meduseld and watched them ride away from the city, away from her. Aragorn turned back one last time and he saw her standing at the gateway. He turned away so that he wouldn't see the tears gathering in her eyes. Only those who were close to him and knew him well saw the pain that he bore.
* *
*
Vanessa sat in front of a mirror in the rooms that she shared with Gandalf and Pippin. Gandalf had left early that morning to take council with Denethor and Faramir once more before the battle. The host of Minas Morgul had been seen on the march towards Minas Tirith. They were being led by the witch king, the head of the black riders. Pippin had left a little while after Gandalf to attend to Denethor. The storm would soon break over the city. She knew how it would end. But she was still afraid.
Vanessa wanted to fight, but she knew by now that she had no true skill with a weapon. Besides, she could not risk the life of her unborn child. She gently placed a hand on her stomach and sighed. She suddenly felt a well of love deep within her heart. Love for the child that would be born in a few months' time. Love for the Elf who had joined with her to fashion this new life. Sisterly love for Luinethoniel. For a few precious moments she forgot about the battle to come. Until Luinethoniel came in and broke into her thoughts.
"You are not thinking of going out there are you?" She asked Vanessa.
"No. I couldn't possibly risk it." She answered softly.
"That is good. You always were quick to fight. I was afraid I might have to stop you from going. Especially in your condition. The battle has already begun. They are upon us. I must ride out now." Luinethoniel told her.
"WHAT?" Vanessa shouted. "They are here already?"
"Yes, the men are already out in the fields. Prince Imrahil of Dol Amroth has arrived. He, Mithrandir, and Faramir are leading them. Denethor is in his hall. We cannot possibly hope to defeat them. I only hope that the Riders of Rohan will come in time."
"You are going to fight?" Vanessa asked in a shocked voice.
"I am, but I must be swift about it. I fear that Thangoruil will try and stop me."
At this, Vanessa began to laugh hysterically. "Go then if you must Luinethoniel. You may not have another chance."
"All right then. I will see you when it is over. Hopefully Legolas will have arrived by then." With that Luinethoniel left her.
After awhile, Vanessa headed towards the walls of the city to watch the battle from there.
As she watched she began to pick out different figures, Gandalf, and one whom she assumed was the prince, Imrahil. Suddenly she saw Faramir fall. She knew that he was not dead, only stung by a poisonous dart. But she could not help crying out all the same. She watched as soldiers bore Faramir into the city and to the halls of Denethor.
"Fools. They should take him to the houses of healing, not to his father." She said to herself.
For the rest of that day and night Vanessa watched the fight. She desperately wanted to run from the horror of it all but she could not bring herself to pull away as brave men fought and died.
But at the dawning of the new day, a great horn was heard from out of the north. Rohan had come at last.
Vanessa heard in the distance, the voice of Theoden, Lord of the mark. "FORTH EORLINGAS! FORTH! FEAR NO DARKNESS! TO ME! TO ME!!"
That was when the Lord of the Nazgul descended upon them. The horses of the Mark fled in terror, bearing their riders into the battle. The witch king flew down on the strange, winged beast that he rode and faced Theoden.
Vanessa knew that the King's end had come but she still wanted to save him. What would change if Theoden lived? Maybe there was still a chance to save him. Quickly Vanessa climbed down the wall and ran forth from the gates of the city. When all men ran from the wraith she ran towards him. Hoping against hope to change history.
Maybe there was still time.
* *
* (A/N) Sorry for waiting so long to update but high school has started. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I probably won't be updating as much as I used to. I'll be keeping you in suspense for as long as possible. MWHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!! Just kidding, I'll update as much as I can.
