A/N: Thanks for reviewing everyone. Hope you all enjoy the next part. As
usual, characters not mind, and neither are any of the songs or rhymes,
except the one about Arwen.
Thoughts are shown like this (when Arwen is projecting thoughts) #blahblah#.
Songs, rhymes and prophecies are indicated with two hashs, or is it hashes? Anyway
Ciao!
Samantha.
Part 30.
By late afternoon the four had come to the clearing in which the Orcs had been slaughtered.
As Eomer had said the bodies, apart from one Orc head, which was raised on a pike, had all been burned. By dusk they had turned up no sign of the hobbits and Aragorn had proposed that they set up camp, and continue their search in the morning light.
In the darkness the four of them sat around the fire, trying to warm their hands. "We have done the best we can by the two small hobbits." Gimli said, his whole demeanor changed from his usually gruff exterior.
"I will not give up." Aragorn told him, "Not until their bodies are laid at my feet and I can see for myself that their day is done."
"Be still," Legolas told them, "We will search more in the morning. The light will be better then."
"What about you Arwen?" Aragorn asked, "You have been quiet since we met with Eomer."
"I cannot help but feel that there are things we are not yet meant to understand. In my heart I do not believe that Merry and Pippin have fallen, no more than I believe that Sam and Frodo have." Arwen said softly. "How do you know about Sam and Frodo?" Gimli asked.
"When I helped to bring Frodo to Rivendell we faced off with the Wraiths on the Bruinen border of my home, Imladris. Once they had been washed away, I set Frodo down on the stones. He was dying, the power of the Morgul blade was triumphing over him. I passed what grace has given me to him. Now we are bound by it. I know that he is alive and well." She told him. "It is one of the reasons I joined this errand. Our destinies are now intertwined."
Morning light woke the remaining members of the Fellowship the next morning.
Aragorn wasted no time trying to pick up the hobbit's spoor. Arwen, Legolas and Gimli joined him, all trying desperately to find some sign that Merry and Pippin had survived. Finally he called the others over to him. "At last, I have found us some news." He told them, his voice relieved. He passed Arwen a large, golden leaf, a mallorn leaf. It was beginning to turn brown. Inside crumbs gave away the fact that it had been the wrapping of lembas bread.
"It must have belonged to one of the hobbits." Gimli voiced, although all understood simply by looking at it.
"Look again my friends," Aragorn picked up several strands of knotted cord. "My guess is that they were bound, and at the beginning of the fight the two hobbits were forgotten. They stopped to cut their bonds, see, here is the broken blade on which they did so, and ate some way-bread."
Arwen's keen eyes took in the grass, crushed under many feet. After a moment she reached into one of the pouches at her belt and withdrew a handful of powder. Unhindered by the stares of her companions she threw the powder over the grass and waited for it to settle.
Once it had she walked around the area, her light footsteps barely shaking the powder from the grass blades. "The hobbits rested for only a short while. My guess is that they were tired from their march. Then they crawled, you can see the marks here, and here," she gestured to the marks, pointing as they reached the trees. "Then they got up and ran." She walked over to the edge of the forest. "Their footprints are here. I would verily guarantee that the two are together, and that they headed into Fangorn Forrest."
"Then let us head into the forest after them." Aragorn told them.
Part 31.
Once they had begun following the hobbits trail it wasn't long before other traces of their small companions were found. Light footprints in one place, as well as broken leaves and grass stems along the path the hobbits had taken.
"I do not care what is said about this place." Legolas began, "It does not feel evil, just old. Older than the Elves anyway. I believe this forest may have been here when the first Elves became part of Middle Earth."
Arwen nodded her head, "It remembers, not us, but people like us. We must not harm it in any way."
Gimli lowered his ax, "My ax is for hewing Orc heads, not wood."
"There is no malice near us. Only anger and watchfulness." Arwen told them.
"Let's keep it that way then shall we?" Aragorn asked the others. Arwen and Legolas smiled at his attempt at wry humor.
Midmorning passed slowly, the sun barely visible beneath the thick canopy of trees.
"I will climb and see if I can scout anything that may aid us." Legolas told the others, as he moved towards a tree and began to climb. He was silent for a long moment. "There, you see? There passing from tree to tree?" Legolas called softly to the others.
Arwen gazed in the direction he pointed. "There is a man there. Old, and dressed in gray."
"Saruman." Gimli breathed. "What are we waiting for?"
"We must wait." Aragorn told him, nonetheless, each drew their weapons silently. They waited for the old man to approach.
He stopped in front of them, but as they went to fire upon him, Aragorn found that Anduril burned his hands so that he dropped the sword, Arwen and Legolas found themselves unable to draw their bows, and Gimli found that he could not heft his ax.
Bright white light surrounded the old man, forcing them to shade their eyes for a second. Then the old man drew back his hood.
The four stopped still. "Mithrandir! Mithrandir!" Legolas called, staring in amazement at the old man's, at Gandalf's face.
Arwen ran to him and threw her arms around him. "We thought you had fallen into shadow." She buried her face in his bright white robes for a moment, trying to hold back the tears that threatened to fall. Then she released him and stood back.
"Gandalf, my old friend." Aragorn bowed, "It is good to have you back."
"Gandalf?" The wizard said, sounding out the name, "Yes, that was my name, Gandalf the Grey."
Arwen smile, with relief, pleased to see him.
Gandalf stepped down from the rock and drew his cloak about him once more, all but covering his shining white robes. "Come my friends, be merry. We meet again, at the turn of the tide. A great storm is coming, but the tide has turned in the battle for Middle Earth. But now, tell me of yourselves."
He sat on one rocks and waited. Choosing a rock near his feet Arwen sat, along with the others, and together they told of everything that had happened since Gandalf had departed from them in Moria.
"Have you see the two hobbits?" Gimli asked once they had finished.
"No, I have not." Gandalf told them. "Though I do know that they are safe in the keeping of Treebeard and the Ents."
"Ents?" Gimli asked.
"Treebeard is the oldest of the Ents." Arwen told him gently. "They are the gardeners of the forest, tree-herders looking very much like the trees they cultivate and protect."
"You know of the Ents?" Gandalf stared at her, a little surprised.
"I have met Treebeard several times, but never in Fangorn. I have only ever seen him when he has been on his travels. I am under promise to one day visit his home." Arwen told him.
"Come now," Gandalf commanded. "The quest for your companions is over, and a new quest laid at your feet once more."
Gandalf led them to edge of the forest. As they walked he explained his journey from the abyss of Moria, to Fangorn Forest. "I have traveled far since Moria, I went to Lothlorien, only discover your recent parting from there. I counseled Galadriel, and she me. She sends word to you all."
"What doe she say?" Aragorn asked.
"To you, she bade me say:
##'Where now are the Dunedain, Elessar, Elessar?
Why do thy kinsfolk wander afar?
Near is the hour when the Lost should come forth,
And the Grey Company ride from the North.
But dark is the path appointed for thee:
The Dead watch the road that leads to the Sea.'##
To Legolas, I am to say:
##'Legolas Greenleaf long under tree
In joy thou hast lived. Beware of the Sea!
If thou hearest the cry of the gull on the shore,
Thy heart shall then dwell in the forest no more.'##
Gimli, the Lady Galadriel asks me to say
##'Wherever thou goest my thought goes with thee.
But have a care to lay thine ax to the right tree!'##
Lady Arwen, to you I am to say:
##'Arwen Undomiel, Evenstar
When the time comes no longer will you wander afar.
When truth is strength and strength is gone
The bravest hearts will carry on.
Hold on tight to thoughts of home,
For only then the quest is done.
Where there is despair, you will bring hope.
Where there is darkness, you will bring light.
You are the light.'"##
"Where are we going now?" Gimli asked, after considering his message.
"To Edoras, the home of the horse lords." Gandalf told him. He looked out across the meadow and whistled.
At once Arwen was reminded of the sound of the wind whipping through the upper halls of Moria. Moments later the sound of hoof beats could be heard ringing over the field.
"There is more than one horse coming." Legolas said.
"Of course," Gandalf told him, "We are too many for just one."
Over a rise in the meadow four horses galloped. Arwen was able to recognize Hausufel and Arod, the horses given to them by Eomer. Beside them galloped her own, Nallahir, and in front galloped a magnificent white horse. "I have never seen such a horse as he." Arwen said softly, "Not since I first laid eyes on Nallahir."
The horses slowed as they became closer, the white horse moving to Gandalf. "This," He told them, "Is Shadowfax, like Nallahir he is one of the Mearas. Shadowfax is the Lord of all Horses, and he has come for me. He has been my friend through many dangers."
Arwen looked over at him, from her ministrations to Nallahir. "A white horse for the White Rider."
"White Rider indeed." Gandalf said to her, "Who told you that?"
"The ripples have stilled. The future is ever-changing, but the images grow clearer. The White Rider shall head the campaign. I have seen it." Arwen told him.
Gandalf smiled. "We had best be off. Edoras is a long ride."
Aragorn and Legolas lifted Gilmi once more onto Arod's back, and then mounted too.
Part 32.
The five rode through afternoon, and well into dusk and the gathering night. At last they dismounted and rested, although their rest was only for a few hours. They traveled once more, under the light of the moon.
The stars shone above making Arwen smile, at ease she began to sing in the tongue of her own people, the High Elves.
##'Ai! laurie lantar lassi surienen,
yeni unotime ve ramar aldaron!
Yeni ve linte yuldar avanier
mi oromardi lisse-miruvoeva
Andune pella, Vardo tellumar
nu luini yassen tintilar i eleni
omaryo airetari-lirinen.
Si man i yulma nin equantuva?
An si Tintalle Varda Oiolosseo
ve fanyar maryat Elentari ortane
ar ilye tier undulave lumbule;
ar sindanoriello caita mornie
i falmalinnar imbe met, ar hisie
untupa Calaciryo miri oiale.
Si vanwa na, Romello vanwa, Valimar!
Namarie! Nai hiruvalye Valimar.
Nai elye hiruva. Namarie!'
"That was lovely." Gimli congratulated her, "What do the words mean?"
"The song speaks of the past, and of the stars." She smiled.
"At least it tells of happier times in this Middle Earth." Aragorn said.
"You aren't happy then?" Arwen asked him, her eyes shining with the light of the stars.
"Middle Earth stands on the edge of ruin. It's fate, all of our fates are placed in the care of two small hobbits." He told her, shocked that she seemed to have forgotten.
"You think too much." She answered, "Here in the night, riding with friends there is much to sing about. There is much to be hopeful and joyful about."
His resolve melted. "As usual, my Lady, you are right. I pray that when the time comes you have enough hope for all of us."
"Hope is light and light is hope. As long as there is a darkness in this land there will be light, and because of that light there will be hope for all of us, Elessar."
Once more she began to sing, this time in the Common Speech.
##'In Western Lands beneath the Sun
the flowers may rise in Spring,
the trees may bud, the waters run
the merry finches sing.
Or there maybe 'tis cloudless night
and swaying beeches bear
the Elven-stars as jewels white
amid their branching hair.
Though here at journey's end I lie
in darkness buried deep,
beyond all towers strong and high,
beyond all mountains steep,
above all shadows rides the Sun
and Stars forever dwell:
I will not say the day is done,
nor bid the stars farewell.'
She smiled in the darkness, her heart lighter than it had been for a long time.
Part 33.
"Look," Gandalf hailed them. Long before he hailed the sun had risen, it's rays lighting the land. "Arwen, Legolas, tell us what you see!"
Both Elves trained their keen eyes on the point in the distance. "I see a white stream flowing from the East. Near to there is a green hill, fenced all around. Inside are many buildings, and on top there is a great building thatched with gold, with guards on duty." Legolas told.
"Edoras the place is called." Gandalf told them, "The golden building is the Hall of Meduseld, where Theoden, son of Thengel sits upon the throne of the Rohirrim. That is where we are going." He rode on, silently now.
Beside Shadowfax, Nallahir ran strongly, although he was becoming weary, like the other horses Hausufel and Arod.
As they approached the gate Gandalf counseled them not to draw weapons or use harsh speech until they arrived safely in the Hall of Theoden.
They rose cautiously through the gates, in a pack rather than in single file, placing Arwen in the middle. At once their progress was halted by several of the guards. "What business do you have in the Riddermark? We accept no strangers here." One of the guards addressed them, using the tongue of Rohan, and not the Common Speech.
Aragorn answered the man in the speech of Rohan, then changed to Common Speech. "We have come to see Theoden, your King."
The man bowed his head and bade them follow. Outside the Hall they dismounted from the horses and left them with several of the stable lads. Elessar swooped down from the sky to land on Arwen's shoulder.
At the doors to the Hall the Chamberlain waited for them. "No one is permitted before the King so armed. You must leave your weapons here, by order of Grima Wormtongue."
Arwen watched Aragorn shrug, and Gandalf lay Glamdring in the corner Aragorn had chosen to lay Anduril in.
Taking their lead she laid Shalat down, along with her Scys, throwing stars and bow. Gently Aragorn helped her to ease the quiver over her head and lay that too, on the pile of their weaponry.
"Your staff." The Chamberlain told Gandalf.
"Surely you would not part an old man from his walking stick?" Gandalf asked. The Chamberlain quickly agreed.
"See that no man or beast disturbs these things." Aragorn ordered the token guard, who nodded meekly in reply.
"Tell me your names so that you may be presented to the King." The Chamberlain said to them.
Gandalf spoke simply. "I am Gandalf the Grey, who has become Gandalf the White. My companions are Lady Arwen Undomiel of Rivendell, or Imladris in your tongue. Aragorn, son of Arathorn, Gimli son of Gloin, and Prince Legolas of the Woodland Realm."
Beside her, Arwen felt Legolas shift uncomfortably at the thought of being addressed by his little used title. #Be still.# She projected the thought into his mind, and felt him relax.
From inside the Hall a messenger came, bearing news for the Chamberlain. They conferred softly for a moment, before the messenger left, and the Chamberlain began to speak to them. "Theoden, King of Rohan, Lord of the Mark, will not see you, not today -."
Arwen stepped forward throwing a small pinch of power on him. "The King will see us now." She told him, her voice calm and firm.
"The King will see you now." The Chamberlain repeated, using the same tone Arwen had.
"Well done, Arwen Evenstar." Gandalf praised her as the Chamberlain led them in to the Hall.
Part 34.
The companions walked silently down the long hallway towards King Theoden on his throne.
"The courtesy of your Hall has somewhat lessened of late, Theoden, son of Thengel." Gandalf called striding down the hallway, leaning but a little on his staff. "Has your Chamberlain not reported the names of my companions? The Lords of Rohan have seldom received four such guests as these."
"Gandalf Stormcrow." Hissed a vile little man. Arwen felt the taint of dark magic upon him and steeled her nerves, he could not hurt her, or her companions. "Ill news is an ill guest."
"Keep your forked tongue behind your teeth." Gandalf snapped, "I know you Grima Wormtongue."
"His staff!" Wormtongue shrieked, he glared at the Chamberlain. "I told you not to let the wizard bring his staff!"
"But bring it I have." Gandalf barked, "Now silence. How long have you been in the service of Saruman? How long have you whispered ill into the ears of your King? What was in it for you? Once Edoras was plundered you would take your share of the spoils?" He demanded.
Wormtongue was transformed into the sniveling, wretched creature he had long since become.
In a blaze of light, Gandalf threw off his cloak. "I was Gandalf the Grey, who has now become Gandalf the White. I have come to Edoras, and to Rohan as friend and ally of the King."
The face of the King screwed up into the familiar countenance of Saruman, his possession of the old man having taken a toll on both of them. "You cannot win, you cannot part me from him." He hissed.
Gandalf lifted his staff, pointing the end toward the King's body, and Saruman's face. It was immediately jerked back, as though held with an invisible thread. Gandalf pressed his staff forward at the King, making Saruman shift and squirm in his grasp.
One of the fair-haired ladies of Rohan darted forward, fearing harm to her King. Aragorn took hold of her arm, holding her tightly.
Arwen stood beside her, "Do not be afraid, Lady of Rohan."
Finally a dark shadow fled the room, and Gandalf lowered his staff. The fair-haired woman rushed to the King's side, desperately patting his cheeks.
After a moment he spoke, "I know your face... Eowyn? Eowyn."
"Yes, my King, I am here." She answered him, "Uncle, what is happening?"
Slowly the King rose from his throne. "Dark have been my dreams of late, but I feel new-awakened."
Arwen approached him, "Be easy Lord of the Mark, you have been under the influence of Saruman of Isenguard, I would guess for some time. You are weak and must allow time to recover your strength."
"Thank you for your concern dear Lady, but I do not know your name." The King told her.
Arwen bade him sit and began to minister to him with Elvish medicine.
"This, Gandalf began, "Is Lady Arwen Undomiel, the Lady of Imladris, Theoden King." At once all heads in the Hall turned towards Arwen, her hood drawn back revealing her dark hair and vivid blue eyes. "Our companions are Aragorn, son of Arathorn, Gimli, son of Gloin, and Legolas of the Woodland Realm of Mirkwood."
"And you are Gandalf the Grey." The King finished.
"He is now Gandalf the White," Arwen corrected him softly, "He is now the White Rider."
"It would appear that you know much Lady." He told her.
"Only what time sees fit to reveal." She answered, passing him a small drinking cup. "Drink now my Lord. Today is the dawn of better things for all people of Middle Earth, if we only fight for it."
A twinkle appeared in Gandalf's eye, "Your hands would better remember their strength if they were to grasp your sword." "Where is Theodred?" Theoden asked, taking his sword from the Chamberlain. "Where is my son?"
All in the Hall became silent, Arwen stood from the place in which she had been sitting. "Theodred lies in the houses of embalming. He passed into shadow five days hence. A thousand prayers on his head my Lord." Arwen told him.
"How is it you know this, if you have just arrived?" Theoden asked, turning towards her.
"Your people are in mourning. They mourn you as much as your son. I could tell you this even if I had not set foot in Edoras. The ripples in the pool have been stilled, and all becomes clearer." She held her head high, speaking nothing but the truth to the withered old man, who blinded by his grief it seemed, wanted her head.
Smoothly Aragorn and Legolas appeared at her sides.
"Come, my friend." Gandalf called to the King.
"Who is this woman? Why have you brought her here? Why does she know the fate of my son, when all others are silent?" The King demanded.
"Perhaps you have forgotten me, my Lord. I am Arwen Undomiel, Evenstar of the Elves. The others of your court present in this room know the fate of your son. They should be able to tell you more than I, but it would appear that they lack the courage, or the words to do so." Arwen answered him.
"Then I thank you for your courage, Lady of Imladris." Theoden told her wearily.
He turned to Wormtongue. "You. You who would have your King slither about, like a snake on his belly. Out with you I say! Out of Edoras, and out of Rohan. Take your filthy snake-like tongue back to your master Saruman! Never return to this land or death will see to you on swift wings." He pushed the small man backwards out the doors of the Hall of Meduseld. "Out of Rohan and out of my sight!" He shouted once more as they watched him take a horse from the barn and ride away towards Isenguard.
"Gandalf the White, you are correct. The hospitality of my Hall is greatly diminished. You and your company who have ridden to us are weary with toil and hunger. I will have a sleep house prepared for you, so that you may rest after you eat." Theoden announced.
"Theoden King," Aragorn began, "We did not ride to Edoras to take food and rest. We have not brought our weapons to the Hall of the King to gather dust in a corner. We have brought them to fight alongside the people of Rohan and their King. Our fight is against both Sauron and Saruman." He finished.
Part 35.
"Have you journeyed far?" Theoden asked as they sat down to their meal.
"We began our journey many days ago, from Imladris, although many of our companions journeyed far to reach Imladris to join our errand. Our path has since taken us through the Mines of Moria, the Golden Wood of Lothlorien, along the Anduin as far as Rauros Falls and Fangorn Forest." Aragorn spoke quietly.
"How many set out from Imladris?"
"Ten companions set out from peaceful Rivendell." Arwen spoke softly. "Gandalf we lost in Moria, but he has returned to us. Boromir we lost at Sarn Gebir. Sam and Frodo took their own path there, Merry and Pippin were captured by Orcs but are now safe in the care of the Tree-herders."
"Why did two set out on their own path?" Theoden asked.
Arwen spoke smoothly, "They are to complete the errand we set out from Rivendell to achieve."
"What errand is that?"
"The errand remains secret, know only to our Fellowship. It was entrusted to the Fellowship at the Council of Elrond Half-Elven." Legolas told him, "We would ask you not to speak of it."
"Do you propose any measures against what we are to face?" Theoden asked Gandalf.
"I council you to place your trust in Eomer. He rides now with the men of Rohan who are faithful to him, and faithful to you." Gandalf spoke.
"You speak well and your council is wise. I would do well to place my trust in my own kin. Speak now and ask for anything you desire, Gandalf the White." Theoden ordered. "If it is in my power to give, it shall be yours."
Gandalf became silent. Arwen could see his mind working. "What of Shadowfax, my Lords?" She asked, "There can be no White Rider without his friend, the great white steed."
"If Shadowfax is what you ask of me, he is yours Friend of Rohan." The King said.
"He is what I ask of you, Lord of the Mark. I must ride pitting white against black, I would not risk something that was not my own." Gandalf answered.
"Then he is yours Gandalf. May be bear you to where the grass is evergreen. For my other guests, I will offer you such things as can be found in my armory, and to Lady Arwen I also offer you this." One of the servants approached the King, carrying a box.
Theoden delved into it, holding out to her a necklace. "I cannot offer you hope or safety, neither can I offer them to anyone else. But I do offer you this." He pressed the fine chain into her hands and bowed his head. "This token is rarely given even in Rohan, and never to outsiders, but this one is yours, Lady of Rivendell."
Slowly Arwen turned the piece over in her hands. The charm was a simple circlet of gold, engraved with Rohirrim letters.
Beside her, Aragorn took the necklace and laid it around her neck. She turned so that he could fix the clasp. "Thank you my Lord." Arwen spoke, "May the grace of my people shine upon you and your house for ever and always."
"Beautiful words from a beautiful lady." The King smiled.
"Now to Isenguard and Mordor." Gandalf began, "When the war is in full swing you will be caught in the middle, a minor pawn to Sauron, and major worry to Saruman. What will you do?"
"I will not risk open warfare on my people."
"Open warfare is upon you, whether you risk it or not." Aragorn told him.
"It is upon us all, Men, Dwarves, Elves. The War for Middle Earth has not yet begun." Arwen said softly.
"I will take my people to the ancient fortress of Helm's Deep. It has never fallen to the enemy. It never shall, not as long as the walls stand tall and the Rohirrim defend them." Theoden told them.
All in the room were silent for several moments. At last Arwen spoke, her heart heavy. "Then you should send word to your people now, and leave at dawn."
As the sun set over Rohan, Arwen stood in the Valley of Tombs, invited there by Theoden, and accompanied by Gandalf. Once more she was dressed in the robes of an Elvish Lady, her hair pulled away from her face with pins that glowed like stars in the night against her dark hair.
The King reached down to pluck a small white flower from the bed which lay at his feet. "This is simbelmyne as we call it in the Riddermark, Evermind in the Common Tongue. Long has it covered the tombs of my forebears. Now it shall cover the tomb of my son." He released the small flower, sending it floating back to the grass.
"Theodred was strong in life," Gandalf told the King. "In death he will find his way to the Great Halls of your forefathers."
"A father should not outlive his son. Why is it that I go on, old and feeble, while Theodred young and strong is taken from me?"
"That is the will of a power much higher than us my Lord." Arwen told him, "Theodred's time is done. His life though short, was fulfilled. He has now come to rest."
"Find peace in yourself Theoden King," Gandalf counseled. "A storm is brewing like nothing we have ever seen."
In the ever dimming twilight Arwen gazed up onto the ridge.
A large bay horse carried two small children. As she watched the elder of the pair fell, landing heavily on the ground. The younger child, a small girl looked over at Arwen, her young eyes pleading.
Hurriedly gathering her long skirts Arwen dashed up the ridge to gather up the children. She picked up the elder, sitting him once more on the horse's saddle and laying an arm around both. With her other hand she led the horse into Edoras.
Inside the gates she was met by Aragorn and Legolas. Handing the horse to one of the stable boys she carried the small girl inside while Aragorn carried the boy. Both children were weary with hunger and toil.
She seated them at one of the tables in the Hall, supporting the children gently, wrapping blankets around their shoulders to warm them.
As she did so the King entered the Hall, flanked by Gandalf. "Bring food for all." He ordered the Chamberlain, who nodded and bowed.
"What happened children?" Arwen asked them, her voice gentle. "What are your names?"
"I am Althas, son of Balthur, this is my sister Charlay. We are from the village Shaltor. Our mother told us to ride to Edoras and raise the alarm. The Wild Men have returned. They are looting and pillaging all of the small villages in the name of..." The boy creased his head trying to think of the name.
"In the name of the White Hand." His small sister told them. "Where is mamma?" She asked, her voice high and frightened.
"Hush child. All will be well." Arwen told her, noticing the servants come in carrying an evening meal for them. "You are an Elf." Charlay told Arwen.
"I am." Arwen smiled at her. "I will take care of you until we find your mama, child." She reassured Charlay, passing a gentle hand over the little girl's brown hair.
"Thank you." Althas answered for both of them.
One of the servants placed a bowl of broth in front of each child, and another laid a plate of bread upon the table.
"Eat children," Arwen encouraged them, "You are weary, eat now and sleep will come soon after."
"War is upon you, Theoden King." Aragorn told him, "Whether you would have it or not."
"I will not bring pain and death to my people." He insisted.
"What will you do then? This Hall offers no protection for you or your people." Gandalf asked, "Will you still flee to Helm's Deep?"
"Helm's Deep is the great fortress of Rohan. It has never fallen to the enemy. My people will leave Edoras at dawn. This night I will send messengers to the villages we have not heard from, urging them to flee to Helm's Deep as well. The people of Rohan will be safe there." Theoden answered them.
"At dawn I will take Shadowfax and ride East. I will find Eomer and his men and bring them to Helm's Deep. They are still loyal to you, and to Rohan. They will fight for their King." Gandalf told Theoden, a touch of resignation in his voice.
As he had spoken both children had fallen asleep at the table. Arwen cradled the girl, Charlay in her arms.
"My Lord?" The Lady Eowyn began, "Where would you have us put the children? There is no room anywhere, since the children's arrival refugees have poured into the city."
"They can sleep in my chamber." Arwen told her, "It matters to me not. I shall not sleep this night. There is much council I must take." She turned to Aragorn. "Bring Althas, the children should be tucked up safely in bed, they have had a long and tiring journey." With those words she rose, carrying Charlay and left the room.
In her chambers Arwen laid the sleeping child on the bed. "Be easy little one. Sweet dreams, you have had a busy day." She leaned down to kiss Charlay goodnight, and covered her over with a blanket.
Then Aragorn entered carrying Althas, whom he laid on the bed beside Charlay. Arwen covered him over with the blanket too. As she did so the boy stirred. "It's all right, Althas. Sleep now." Arwen reassured him. The boy closed his eyes once more and slept.
Arwen walked over to Aragorn who stood near the door. He wrapped his arms around her waist. "You're so good with them."
"They're just children Aragorn. Right now they are lost and far from home." She rested her head back against his shoulder. He kissed her forehead.
"Do not worry about the future my love." Arwen told him. "Our paths are already laid at our feet."
Thoughts are shown like this (when Arwen is projecting thoughts) #blahblah#.
Songs, rhymes and prophecies are indicated with two hashs, or is it hashes? Anyway
Ciao!
Samantha.
Part 30.
By late afternoon the four had come to the clearing in which the Orcs had been slaughtered.
As Eomer had said the bodies, apart from one Orc head, which was raised on a pike, had all been burned. By dusk they had turned up no sign of the hobbits and Aragorn had proposed that they set up camp, and continue their search in the morning light.
In the darkness the four of them sat around the fire, trying to warm their hands. "We have done the best we can by the two small hobbits." Gimli said, his whole demeanor changed from his usually gruff exterior.
"I will not give up." Aragorn told him, "Not until their bodies are laid at my feet and I can see for myself that their day is done."
"Be still," Legolas told them, "We will search more in the morning. The light will be better then."
"What about you Arwen?" Aragorn asked, "You have been quiet since we met with Eomer."
"I cannot help but feel that there are things we are not yet meant to understand. In my heart I do not believe that Merry and Pippin have fallen, no more than I believe that Sam and Frodo have." Arwen said softly. "How do you know about Sam and Frodo?" Gimli asked.
"When I helped to bring Frodo to Rivendell we faced off with the Wraiths on the Bruinen border of my home, Imladris. Once they had been washed away, I set Frodo down on the stones. He was dying, the power of the Morgul blade was triumphing over him. I passed what grace has given me to him. Now we are bound by it. I know that he is alive and well." She told him. "It is one of the reasons I joined this errand. Our destinies are now intertwined."
Morning light woke the remaining members of the Fellowship the next morning.
Aragorn wasted no time trying to pick up the hobbit's spoor. Arwen, Legolas and Gimli joined him, all trying desperately to find some sign that Merry and Pippin had survived. Finally he called the others over to him. "At last, I have found us some news." He told them, his voice relieved. He passed Arwen a large, golden leaf, a mallorn leaf. It was beginning to turn brown. Inside crumbs gave away the fact that it had been the wrapping of lembas bread.
"It must have belonged to one of the hobbits." Gimli voiced, although all understood simply by looking at it.
"Look again my friends," Aragorn picked up several strands of knotted cord. "My guess is that they were bound, and at the beginning of the fight the two hobbits were forgotten. They stopped to cut their bonds, see, here is the broken blade on which they did so, and ate some way-bread."
Arwen's keen eyes took in the grass, crushed under many feet. After a moment she reached into one of the pouches at her belt and withdrew a handful of powder. Unhindered by the stares of her companions she threw the powder over the grass and waited for it to settle.
Once it had she walked around the area, her light footsteps barely shaking the powder from the grass blades. "The hobbits rested for only a short while. My guess is that they were tired from their march. Then they crawled, you can see the marks here, and here," she gestured to the marks, pointing as they reached the trees. "Then they got up and ran." She walked over to the edge of the forest. "Their footprints are here. I would verily guarantee that the two are together, and that they headed into Fangorn Forrest."
"Then let us head into the forest after them." Aragorn told them.
Part 31.
Once they had begun following the hobbits trail it wasn't long before other traces of their small companions were found. Light footprints in one place, as well as broken leaves and grass stems along the path the hobbits had taken.
"I do not care what is said about this place." Legolas began, "It does not feel evil, just old. Older than the Elves anyway. I believe this forest may have been here when the first Elves became part of Middle Earth."
Arwen nodded her head, "It remembers, not us, but people like us. We must not harm it in any way."
Gimli lowered his ax, "My ax is for hewing Orc heads, not wood."
"There is no malice near us. Only anger and watchfulness." Arwen told them.
"Let's keep it that way then shall we?" Aragorn asked the others. Arwen and Legolas smiled at his attempt at wry humor.
Midmorning passed slowly, the sun barely visible beneath the thick canopy of trees.
"I will climb and see if I can scout anything that may aid us." Legolas told the others, as he moved towards a tree and began to climb. He was silent for a long moment. "There, you see? There passing from tree to tree?" Legolas called softly to the others.
Arwen gazed in the direction he pointed. "There is a man there. Old, and dressed in gray."
"Saruman." Gimli breathed. "What are we waiting for?"
"We must wait." Aragorn told him, nonetheless, each drew their weapons silently. They waited for the old man to approach.
He stopped in front of them, but as they went to fire upon him, Aragorn found that Anduril burned his hands so that he dropped the sword, Arwen and Legolas found themselves unable to draw their bows, and Gimli found that he could not heft his ax.
Bright white light surrounded the old man, forcing them to shade their eyes for a second. Then the old man drew back his hood.
The four stopped still. "Mithrandir! Mithrandir!" Legolas called, staring in amazement at the old man's, at Gandalf's face.
Arwen ran to him and threw her arms around him. "We thought you had fallen into shadow." She buried her face in his bright white robes for a moment, trying to hold back the tears that threatened to fall. Then she released him and stood back.
"Gandalf, my old friend." Aragorn bowed, "It is good to have you back."
"Gandalf?" The wizard said, sounding out the name, "Yes, that was my name, Gandalf the Grey."
Arwen smile, with relief, pleased to see him.
Gandalf stepped down from the rock and drew his cloak about him once more, all but covering his shining white robes. "Come my friends, be merry. We meet again, at the turn of the tide. A great storm is coming, but the tide has turned in the battle for Middle Earth. But now, tell me of yourselves."
He sat on one rocks and waited. Choosing a rock near his feet Arwen sat, along with the others, and together they told of everything that had happened since Gandalf had departed from them in Moria.
"Have you see the two hobbits?" Gimli asked once they had finished.
"No, I have not." Gandalf told them. "Though I do know that they are safe in the keeping of Treebeard and the Ents."
"Ents?" Gimli asked.
"Treebeard is the oldest of the Ents." Arwen told him gently. "They are the gardeners of the forest, tree-herders looking very much like the trees they cultivate and protect."
"You know of the Ents?" Gandalf stared at her, a little surprised.
"I have met Treebeard several times, but never in Fangorn. I have only ever seen him when he has been on his travels. I am under promise to one day visit his home." Arwen told him.
"Come now," Gandalf commanded. "The quest for your companions is over, and a new quest laid at your feet once more."
Gandalf led them to edge of the forest. As they walked he explained his journey from the abyss of Moria, to Fangorn Forest. "I have traveled far since Moria, I went to Lothlorien, only discover your recent parting from there. I counseled Galadriel, and she me. She sends word to you all."
"What doe she say?" Aragorn asked.
"To you, she bade me say:
##'Where now are the Dunedain, Elessar, Elessar?
Why do thy kinsfolk wander afar?
Near is the hour when the Lost should come forth,
And the Grey Company ride from the North.
But dark is the path appointed for thee:
The Dead watch the road that leads to the Sea.'##
To Legolas, I am to say:
##'Legolas Greenleaf long under tree
In joy thou hast lived. Beware of the Sea!
If thou hearest the cry of the gull on the shore,
Thy heart shall then dwell in the forest no more.'##
Gimli, the Lady Galadriel asks me to say
##'Wherever thou goest my thought goes with thee.
But have a care to lay thine ax to the right tree!'##
Lady Arwen, to you I am to say:
##'Arwen Undomiel, Evenstar
When the time comes no longer will you wander afar.
When truth is strength and strength is gone
The bravest hearts will carry on.
Hold on tight to thoughts of home,
For only then the quest is done.
Where there is despair, you will bring hope.
Where there is darkness, you will bring light.
You are the light.'"##
"Where are we going now?" Gimli asked, after considering his message.
"To Edoras, the home of the horse lords." Gandalf told him. He looked out across the meadow and whistled.
At once Arwen was reminded of the sound of the wind whipping through the upper halls of Moria. Moments later the sound of hoof beats could be heard ringing over the field.
"There is more than one horse coming." Legolas said.
"Of course," Gandalf told him, "We are too many for just one."
Over a rise in the meadow four horses galloped. Arwen was able to recognize Hausufel and Arod, the horses given to them by Eomer. Beside them galloped her own, Nallahir, and in front galloped a magnificent white horse. "I have never seen such a horse as he." Arwen said softly, "Not since I first laid eyes on Nallahir."
The horses slowed as they became closer, the white horse moving to Gandalf. "This," He told them, "Is Shadowfax, like Nallahir he is one of the Mearas. Shadowfax is the Lord of all Horses, and he has come for me. He has been my friend through many dangers."
Arwen looked over at him, from her ministrations to Nallahir. "A white horse for the White Rider."
"White Rider indeed." Gandalf said to her, "Who told you that?"
"The ripples have stilled. The future is ever-changing, but the images grow clearer. The White Rider shall head the campaign. I have seen it." Arwen told him.
Gandalf smiled. "We had best be off. Edoras is a long ride."
Aragorn and Legolas lifted Gilmi once more onto Arod's back, and then mounted too.
Part 32.
The five rode through afternoon, and well into dusk and the gathering night. At last they dismounted and rested, although their rest was only for a few hours. They traveled once more, under the light of the moon.
The stars shone above making Arwen smile, at ease she began to sing in the tongue of her own people, the High Elves.
##'Ai! laurie lantar lassi surienen,
yeni unotime ve ramar aldaron!
Yeni ve linte yuldar avanier
mi oromardi lisse-miruvoeva
Andune pella, Vardo tellumar
nu luini yassen tintilar i eleni
omaryo airetari-lirinen.
Si man i yulma nin equantuva?
An si Tintalle Varda Oiolosseo
ve fanyar maryat Elentari ortane
ar ilye tier undulave lumbule;
ar sindanoriello caita mornie
i falmalinnar imbe met, ar hisie
untupa Calaciryo miri oiale.
Si vanwa na, Romello vanwa, Valimar!
Namarie! Nai hiruvalye Valimar.
Nai elye hiruva. Namarie!'
"That was lovely." Gimli congratulated her, "What do the words mean?"
"The song speaks of the past, and of the stars." She smiled.
"At least it tells of happier times in this Middle Earth." Aragorn said.
"You aren't happy then?" Arwen asked him, her eyes shining with the light of the stars.
"Middle Earth stands on the edge of ruin. It's fate, all of our fates are placed in the care of two small hobbits." He told her, shocked that she seemed to have forgotten.
"You think too much." She answered, "Here in the night, riding with friends there is much to sing about. There is much to be hopeful and joyful about."
His resolve melted. "As usual, my Lady, you are right. I pray that when the time comes you have enough hope for all of us."
"Hope is light and light is hope. As long as there is a darkness in this land there will be light, and because of that light there will be hope for all of us, Elessar."
Once more she began to sing, this time in the Common Speech.
##'In Western Lands beneath the Sun
the flowers may rise in Spring,
the trees may bud, the waters run
the merry finches sing.
Or there maybe 'tis cloudless night
and swaying beeches bear
the Elven-stars as jewels white
amid their branching hair.
Though here at journey's end I lie
in darkness buried deep,
beyond all towers strong and high,
beyond all mountains steep,
above all shadows rides the Sun
and Stars forever dwell:
I will not say the day is done,
nor bid the stars farewell.'
She smiled in the darkness, her heart lighter than it had been for a long time.
Part 33.
"Look," Gandalf hailed them. Long before he hailed the sun had risen, it's rays lighting the land. "Arwen, Legolas, tell us what you see!"
Both Elves trained their keen eyes on the point in the distance. "I see a white stream flowing from the East. Near to there is a green hill, fenced all around. Inside are many buildings, and on top there is a great building thatched with gold, with guards on duty." Legolas told.
"Edoras the place is called." Gandalf told them, "The golden building is the Hall of Meduseld, where Theoden, son of Thengel sits upon the throne of the Rohirrim. That is where we are going." He rode on, silently now.
Beside Shadowfax, Nallahir ran strongly, although he was becoming weary, like the other horses Hausufel and Arod.
As they approached the gate Gandalf counseled them not to draw weapons or use harsh speech until they arrived safely in the Hall of Theoden.
They rose cautiously through the gates, in a pack rather than in single file, placing Arwen in the middle. At once their progress was halted by several of the guards. "What business do you have in the Riddermark? We accept no strangers here." One of the guards addressed them, using the tongue of Rohan, and not the Common Speech.
Aragorn answered the man in the speech of Rohan, then changed to Common Speech. "We have come to see Theoden, your King."
The man bowed his head and bade them follow. Outside the Hall they dismounted from the horses and left them with several of the stable lads. Elessar swooped down from the sky to land on Arwen's shoulder.
At the doors to the Hall the Chamberlain waited for them. "No one is permitted before the King so armed. You must leave your weapons here, by order of Grima Wormtongue."
Arwen watched Aragorn shrug, and Gandalf lay Glamdring in the corner Aragorn had chosen to lay Anduril in.
Taking their lead she laid Shalat down, along with her Scys, throwing stars and bow. Gently Aragorn helped her to ease the quiver over her head and lay that too, on the pile of their weaponry.
"Your staff." The Chamberlain told Gandalf.
"Surely you would not part an old man from his walking stick?" Gandalf asked. The Chamberlain quickly agreed.
"See that no man or beast disturbs these things." Aragorn ordered the token guard, who nodded meekly in reply.
"Tell me your names so that you may be presented to the King." The Chamberlain said to them.
Gandalf spoke simply. "I am Gandalf the Grey, who has become Gandalf the White. My companions are Lady Arwen Undomiel of Rivendell, or Imladris in your tongue. Aragorn, son of Arathorn, Gimli son of Gloin, and Prince Legolas of the Woodland Realm."
Beside her, Arwen felt Legolas shift uncomfortably at the thought of being addressed by his little used title. #Be still.# She projected the thought into his mind, and felt him relax.
From inside the Hall a messenger came, bearing news for the Chamberlain. They conferred softly for a moment, before the messenger left, and the Chamberlain began to speak to them. "Theoden, King of Rohan, Lord of the Mark, will not see you, not today -."
Arwen stepped forward throwing a small pinch of power on him. "The King will see us now." She told him, her voice calm and firm.
"The King will see you now." The Chamberlain repeated, using the same tone Arwen had.
"Well done, Arwen Evenstar." Gandalf praised her as the Chamberlain led them in to the Hall.
Part 34.
The companions walked silently down the long hallway towards King Theoden on his throne.
"The courtesy of your Hall has somewhat lessened of late, Theoden, son of Thengel." Gandalf called striding down the hallway, leaning but a little on his staff. "Has your Chamberlain not reported the names of my companions? The Lords of Rohan have seldom received four such guests as these."
"Gandalf Stormcrow." Hissed a vile little man. Arwen felt the taint of dark magic upon him and steeled her nerves, he could not hurt her, or her companions. "Ill news is an ill guest."
"Keep your forked tongue behind your teeth." Gandalf snapped, "I know you Grima Wormtongue."
"His staff!" Wormtongue shrieked, he glared at the Chamberlain. "I told you not to let the wizard bring his staff!"
"But bring it I have." Gandalf barked, "Now silence. How long have you been in the service of Saruman? How long have you whispered ill into the ears of your King? What was in it for you? Once Edoras was plundered you would take your share of the spoils?" He demanded.
Wormtongue was transformed into the sniveling, wretched creature he had long since become.
In a blaze of light, Gandalf threw off his cloak. "I was Gandalf the Grey, who has now become Gandalf the White. I have come to Edoras, and to Rohan as friend and ally of the King."
The face of the King screwed up into the familiar countenance of Saruman, his possession of the old man having taken a toll on both of them. "You cannot win, you cannot part me from him." He hissed.
Gandalf lifted his staff, pointing the end toward the King's body, and Saruman's face. It was immediately jerked back, as though held with an invisible thread. Gandalf pressed his staff forward at the King, making Saruman shift and squirm in his grasp.
One of the fair-haired ladies of Rohan darted forward, fearing harm to her King. Aragorn took hold of her arm, holding her tightly.
Arwen stood beside her, "Do not be afraid, Lady of Rohan."
Finally a dark shadow fled the room, and Gandalf lowered his staff. The fair-haired woman rushed to the King's side, desperately patting his cheeks.
After a moment he spoke, "I know your face... Eowyn? Eowyn."
"Yes, my King, I am here." She answered him, "Uncle, what is happening?"
Slowly the King rose from his throne. "Dark have been my dreams of late, but I feel new-awakened."
Arwen approached him, "Be easy Lord of the Mark, you have been under the influence of Saruman of Isenguard, I would guess for some time. You are weak and must allow time to recover your strength."
"Thank you for your concern dear Lady, but I do not know your name." The King told her.
Arwen bade him sit and began to minister to him with Elvish medicine.
"This, Gandalf began, "Is Lady Arwen Undomiel, the Lady of Imladris, Theoden King." At once all heads in the Hall turned towards Arwen, her hood drawn back revealing her dark hair and vivid blue eyes. "Our companions are Aragorn, son of Arathorn, Gimli, son of Gloin, and Legolas of the Woodland Realm of Mirkwood."
"And you are Gandalf the Grey." The King finished.
"He is now Gandalf the White," Arwen corrected him softly, "He is now the White Rider."
"It would appear that you know much Lady." He told her.
"Only what time sees fit to reveal." She answered, passing him a small drinking cup. "Drink now my Lord. Today is the dawn of better things for all people of Middle Earth, if we only fight for it."
A twinkle appeared in Gandalf's eye, "Your hands would better remember their strength if they were to grasp your sword." "Where is Theodred?" Theoden asked, taking his sword from the Chamberlain. "Where is my son?"
All in the Hall became silent, Arwen stood from the place in which she had been sitting. "Theodred lies in the houses of embalming. He passed into shadow five days hence. A thousand prayers on his head my Lord." Arwen told him.
"How is it you know this, if you have just arrived?" Theoden asked, turning towards her.
"Your people are in mourning. They mourn you as much as your son. I could tell you this even if I had not set foot in Edoras. The ripples in the pool have been stilled, and all becomes clearer." She held her head high, speaking nothing but the truth to the withered old man, who blinded by his grief it seemed, wanted her head.
Smoothly Aragorn and Legolas appeared at her sides.
"Come, my friend." Gandalf called to the King.
"Who is this woman? Why have you brought her here? Why does she know the fate of my son, when all others are silent?" The King demanded.
"Perhaps you have forgotten me, my Lord. I am Arwen Undomiel, Evenstar of the Elves. The others of your court present in this room know the fate of your son. They should be able to tell you more than I, but it would appear that they lack the courage, or the words to do so." Arwen answered him.
"Then I thank you for your courage, Lady of Imladris." Theoden told her wearily.
He turned to Wormtongue. "You. You who would have your King slither about, like a snake on his belly. Out with you I say! Out of Edoras, and out of Rohan. Take your filthy snake-like tongue back to your master Saruman! Never return to this land or death will see to you on swift wings." He pushed the small man backwards out the doors of the Hall of Meduseld. "Out of Rohan and out of my sight!" He shouted once more as they watched him take a horse from the barn and ride away towards Isenguard.
"Gandalf the White, you are correct. The hospitality of my Hall is greatly diminished. You and your company who have ridden to us are weary with toil and hunger. I will have a sleep house prepared for you, so that you may rest after you eat." Theoden announced.
"Theoden King," Aragorn began, "We did not ride to Edoras to take food and rest. We have not brought our weapons to the Hall of the King to gather dust in a corner. We have brought them to fight alongside the people of Rohan and their King. Our fight is against both Sauron and Saruman." He finished.
Part 35.
"Have you journeyed far?" Theoden asked as they sat down to their meal.
"We began our journey many days ago, from Imladris, although many of our companions journeyed far to reach Imladris to join our errand. Our path has since taken us through the Mines of Moria, the Golden Wood of Lothlorien, along the Anduin as far as Rauros Falls and Fangorn Forest." Aragorn spoke quietly.
"How many set out from Imladris?"
"Ten companions set out from peaceful Rivendell." Arwen spoke softly. "Gandalf we lost in Moria, but he has returned to us. Boromir we lost at Sarn Gebir. Sam and Frodo took their own path there, Merry and Pippin were captured by Orcs but are now safe in the care of the Tree-herders."
"Why did two set out on their own path?" Theoden asked.
Arwen spoke smoothly, "They are to complete the errand we set out from Rivendell to achieve."
"What errand is that?"
"The errand remains secret, know only to our Fellowship. It was entrusted to the Fellowship at the Council of Elrond Half-Elven." Legolas told him, "We would ask you not to speak of it."
"Do you propose any measures against what we are to face?" Theoden asked Gandalf.
"I council you to place your trust in Eomer. He rides now with the men of Rohan who are faithful to him, and faithful to you." Gandalf spoke.
"You speak well and your council is wise. I would do well to place my trust in my own kin. Speak now and ask for anything you desire, Gandalf the White." Theoden ordered. "If it is in my power to give, it shall be yours."
Gandalf became silent. Arwen could see his mind working. "What of Shadowfax, my Lords?" She asked, "There can be no White Rider without his friend, the great white steed."
"If Shadowfax is what you ask of me, he is yours Friend of Rohan." The King said.
"He is what I ask of you, Lord of the Mark. I must ride pitting white against black, I would not risk something that was not my own." Gandalf answered.
"Then he is yours Gandalf. May be bear you to where the grass is evergreen. For my other guests, I will offer you such things as can be found in my armory, and to Lady Arwen I also offer you this." One of the servants approached the King, carrying a box.
Theoden delved into it, holding out to her a necklace. "I cannot offer you hope or safety, neither can I offer them to anyone else. But I do offer you this." He pressed the fine chain into her hands and bowed his head. "This token is rarely given even in Rohan, and never to outsiders, but this one is yours, Lady of Rivendell."
Slowly Arwen turned the piece over in her hands. The charm was a simple circlet of gold, engraved with Rohirrim letters.
Beside her, Aragorn took the necklace and laid it around her neck. She turned so that he could fix the clasp. "Thank you my Lord." Arwen spoke, "May the grace of my people shine upon you and your house for ever and always."
"Beautiful words from a beautiful lady." The King smiled.
"Now to Isenguard and Mordor." Gandalf began, "When the war is in full swing you will be caught in the middle, a minor pawn to Sauron, and major worry to Saruman. What will you do?"
"I will not risk open warfare on my people."
"Open warfare is upon you, whether you risk it or not." Aragorn told him.
"It is upon us all, Men, Dwarves, Elves. The War for Middle Earth has not yet begun." Arwen said softly.
"I will take my people to the ancient fortress of Helm's Deep. It has never fallen to the enemy. It never shall, not as long as the walls stand tall and the Rohirrim defend them." Theoden told them.
All in the room were silent for several moments. At last Arwen spoke, her heart heavy. "Then you should send word to your people now, and leave at dawn."
As the sun set over Rohan, Arwen stood in the Valley of Tombs, invited there by Theoden, and accompanied by Gandalf. Once more she was dressed in the robes of an Elvish Lady, her hair pulled away from her face with pins that glowed like stars in the night against her dark hair.
The King reached down to pluck a small white flower from the bed which lay at his feet. "This is simbelmyne as we call it in the Riddermark, Evermind in the Common Tongue. Long has it covered the tombs of my forebears. Now it shall cover the tomb of my son." He released the small flower, sending it floating back to the grass.
"Theodred was strong in life," Gandalf told the King. "In death he will find his way to the Great Halls of your forefathers."
"A father should not outlive his son. Why is it that I go on, old and feeble, while Theodred young and strong is taken from me?"
"That is the will of a power much higher than us my Lord." Arwen told him, "Theodred's time is done. His life though short, was fulfilled. He has now come to rest."
"Find peace in yourself Theoden King," Gandalf counseled. "A storm is brewing like nothing we have ever seen."
In the ever dimming twilight Arwen gazed up onto the ridge.
A large bay horse carried two small children. As she watched the elder of the pair fell, landing heavily on the ground. The younger child, a small girl looked over at Arwen, her young eyes pleading.
Hurriedly gathering her long skirts Arwen dashed up the ridge to gather up the children. She picked up the elder, sitting him once more on the horse's saddle and laying an arm around both. With her other hand she led the horse into Edoras.
Inside the gates she was met by Aragorn and Legolas. Handing the horse to one of the stable boys she carried the small girl inside while Aragorn carried the boy. Both children were weary with hunger and toil.
She seated them at one of the tables in the Hall, supporting the children gently, wrapping blankets around their shoulders to warm them.
As she did so the King entered the Hall, flanked by Gandalf. "Bring food for all." He ordered the Chamberlain, who nodded and bowed.
"What happened children?" Arwen asked them, her voice gentle. "What are your names?"
"I am Althas, son of Balthur, this is my sister Charlay. We are from the village Shaltor. Our mother told us to ride to Edoras and raise the alarm. The Wild Men have returned. They are looting and pillaging all of the small villages in the name of..." The boy creased his head trying to think of the name.
"In the name of the White Hand." His small sister told them. "Where is mamma?" She asked, her voice high and frightened.
"Hush child. All will be well." Arwen told her, noticing the servants come in carrying an evening meal for them. "You are an Elf." Charlay told Arwen.
"I am." Arwen smiled at her. "I will take care of you until we find your mama, child." She reassured Charlay, passing a gentle hand over the little girl's brown hair.
"Thank you." Althas answered for both of them.
One of the servants placed a bowl of broth in front of each child, and another laid a plate of bread upon the table.
"Eat children," Arwen encouraged them, "You are weary, eat now and sleep will come soon after."
"War is upon you, Theoden King." Aragorn told him, "Whether you would have it or not."
"I will not bring pain and death to my people." He insisted.
"What will you do then? This Hall offers no protection for you or your people." Gandalf asked, "Will you still flee to Helm's Deep?"
"Helm's Deep is the great fortress of Rohan. It has never fallen to the enemy. My people will leave Edoras at dawn. This night I will send messengers to the villages we have not heard from, urging them to flee to Helm's Deep as well. The people of Rohan will be safe there." Theoden answered them.
"At dawn I will take Shadowfax and ride East. I will find Eomer and his men and bring them to Helm's Deep. They are still loyal to you, and to Rohan. They will fight for their King." Gandalf told Theoden, a touch of resignation in his voice.
As he had spoken both children had fallen asleep at the table. Arwen cradled the girl, Charlay in her arms.
"My Lord?" The Lady Eowyn began, "Where would you have us put the children? There is no room anywhere, since the children's arrival refugees have poured into the city."
"They can sleep in my chamber." Arwen told her, "It matters to me not. I shall not sleep this night. There is much council I must take." She turned to Aragorn. "Bring Althas, the children should be tucked up safely in bed, they have had a long and tiring journey." With those words she rose, carrying Charlay and left the room.
In her chambers Arwen laid the sleeping child on the bed. "Be easy little one. Sweet dreams, you have had a busy day." She leaned down to kiss Charlay goodnight, and covered her over with a blanket.
Then Aragorn entered carrying Althas, whom he laid on the bed beside Charlay. Arwen covered him over with the blanket too. As she did so the boy stirred. "It's all right, Althas. Sleep now." Arwen reassured him. The boy closed his eyes once more and slept.
Arwen walked over to Aragorn who stood near the door. He wrapped his arms around her waist. "You're so good with them."
"They're just children Aragorn. Right now they are lost and far from home." She rested her head back against his shoulder. He kissed her forehead.
"Do not worry about the future my love." Arwen told him. "Our paths are already laid at our feet."