**I don't own anything from Lord of the Rings, J. R.R. Tolkien, or any of
the poetry or poets referenced (such as John Keats, Shakespeare, Poe,
Donne)-all I own is Dascha, Ivy, Geniveve, Christopher, Ireth and Taralom**
A/N: This story is the third part of "The Evangeline Series," the first part being found in the story "A Sorta Fairytale" and the second part in "Judgement of the Moon and Stars." Please read and review if you have not already done so. Happy reading!
PART THREE OF THE EVANGELINE SERIES:
Green and Gray
By Leah Pensotti
Chapter Three: A Mad Mission
The next day, Geniveve wandered through the halls of the Houses of Healing, glad to be free of the suffocating sadness that filled Dascha's room. She poked her head through the door of the room at the far end of the hall and found a white clad form lying in little light.
"Eowyn?"
The lady of Rohan turned to her friend and smiled, "I heard you were here, Evangeline. I also heard of the sad news. Tell me, how is Telvilya coming along?"
Geniveve fought back tears, "She wakes every few hours, yet she still sleeps a lot."
She sat on Eowyn's bed, "But I am glad to see you. How are you feeling?"
Eowyn sighed, "Saddened. Not to mention docile. The warden, per Aragorn's behest is holding me captive. He said to keep me here ten days! Ten days! My brother rides into battle and my uncle fell in glory. I cannot say that my heart did not seek death."
Geniveve felt her heart drop a bit, knowing that Eowyn's heart had broken. Dascha had gone to battle in search of freedom and victory, yet had found only pain. Dascha was right; she did deserve her own future. She loved adventure, and Geniveve could not begrudge her that; for Geniveve herself had found happiness. When Dascha came to, Geniveve would speak with her and they would have it out. She was Dascha's friend and she loved her.
Geniveve broke from her reverie and looked inquisitively to the shield maiden, "Are you alright? Is there anything I can get for you that you may need?"
Eowyn looked to her damaged left arm and then to Geniveve, "I need to get out of this bed, only my arm needs care."
Geniveve shrugged, "I dare not defy Ioreth or any of the healers. They are quite stern."
Eowyn looked determined, "Then I shall go to the warden tomorrow and state my case."
Geniveve smiled, "I shall visit tomorrow, for now-rest."
She bid farewell to Eowyn and went back to see Dascha. Her friend lay motionless in the small bed with the exception of the steady rise and fall of her chest. Geniveve sat in her chair-her appointed watch post. Her thoughts strayed to Legolas, Frodo, Sam and finally to Chris and Ivy.
Her eyelashes fluttered a bit and she drifted into an uneasy rest. For a moment, she was back in her kitchen drinking tea with Dascha, Ivy and Christopher. The kitchen felt warm and comforting; the very epicenter of her familial home. How she missed that feeling.
Geniveve looked across the table to her brother and Ivy. Ivy wore deep green and black, her hair black and shoulder length. Christopher's eyes were still the same greenish-gray as Geniveve's and they burned into her own. Dascha quietly sipped her tea and wore the navy running suit that she used to wear to the gym.
Geniveve looked to her own clothes and her favorite pajamas with the little stars glared back at her. Geniveve looked up to her friends and smiled, "So, how are things?"
Ivy took Christopher's hand in hers and met eyes with Geniveve, "We, uh, Christopher and I-we're engaged."
Geniveve gasped, "Really?"
Christopher nodded, "Yes, Evie."
She felt tears spring into her eyes, "You guys are getting married and I am gonna miss it."
Ivy smiled and patted her hand; "You'll be there. You'll never leave us."
Dascha grunted, "So how are you here? How are we talking? Is magic, no?"
Geniveve nodded, "Good call, Dascha. How are we doing this?"
Christopher smiled, "I think Lady Galadriel may have something to do with it."
Geniveve immediately knew this was true. She sipped her tea thoughtfully and looked to them again, "So when's the wedding?"
Christopher smiled to his fiancee, "Not for another year. I want to finish Medical school and Ivy wants to get her Bachelor's Degree."
Geniveve cried tears made equally of joy and pain, "That's great. I love you guys so much. I miss you."
Ivy nodded, "I miss you too, Evie. You and Dascha will both find happiness. I know that you already have."
Geniveve nodded and remembered Legolas, "Will we see you both again?"
Christopher squeezed her hand; "I believe so. I have faith that we will."
Lightening flashed through the window and prompted Geniveve's eyes to open. Her surroundings had changed. She was back in the chair in Minas Tirith. She looked to the bed to find Dascha looking directly back at her.
"Dascha! You're awake!"
She stumbled to her friend's side without grace and kissed her cheek, "I have so much to tell you. I just had a dream-"
Dascha smiled knowingly, "Ivy and Chris in the kitchen?"
Geniveve nodded in an astonished sort of way and Dascha merely smirked, "I was there, too."
Geniveve smiled, "Are you okay? Should I go get Ioreth?"
Dascha shook her head, "No, not yet."
Geniveve helped her to sit up in her bed and propped her feet up, "Is that better?"
Dascha sighed with relief, "Much."
Geniveve nodded and sat beside her friend; "Dascha, we need to talk. I have to apologize."
Dascha wrinkled her brow, "For what?"
Geniveve collected her thoughts and realized how painful it was to let go, "It was so stupid of me to get angry with you. I was so selfish, Dascha. I want you to be happy. If it is adventure you want, then I want it for you. You are my best friend; my sister. Please forgive me."
Dascha smiled faintly, "Thank you, Gen. But I was stupid too. I was jealous, no?"
Geniveve shook her head, "No."
Dascha chuckled, "I was jealous of you and Legolas. I was jealous that I no have something or someone else here."
"So what are your plans now? I mean, when you heal."
Dascha sighed, "I think I will take Ireth and travel. I want to see all of Middle-Earth."
Geniveve sat silently for a moment and then spoke; "Who knows what you'll find. It does sound nice, Dascha."
Dascha nodded, "It does. What about you Gen? What are your plans?"
Geniveve shrugged, "I think that I'd like to stay in one place for awhile. After the war, I'd like to be as calm and peaceful as I can. Perhaps write. My fingers have been itching to do that."
"What about Legolas?"
Geniveve felt her ears turn pink, "He fits in there, too. I just want him with me."
~~
The next morning, Geniveve helped Ioreth change Dascha's dressings and brought her food, for she had not eaten in quite some time. Ioreth gave Geniveve a new dress, this one a light brown and as plain and unornamented as the first.
After she changed, Geniveve sat with Dascha for awhile. Dascha was progressing well. Ioreth praised Aragorn's use of athelas for the miraculous turnarounds of Faramir, Eowyn, Merry and Dascha. Overall, though, Ioreth just praised Aragorn.
Dascha pulled herself up slowly with help from Geniveve and remarked, "Where is Eowyn?"
Geniveve smiled, "Down the hall. She is doing well; her left arm is broken and she wishes not to be trapped here."
Dascha sighed, "I understand. I can no sit in bed much longer."
Geniveve looked around; "Shall I go ask Ioreth if you can take walks? Or at least attempt to with my aid?"
Dascha nodded, "Would you? I think that would help."
Geniveve stood and gave her friend a cockeyed smile; "I'll be right back. Don't go anywhere."
She walked out the door and down the corridor. Before she made it to the end, she ran into a tall figure. Geniveve steadied herself and apologized, "I am sorry. I didn't see anyone there."
She looked up and met a familiar face; a face that resembled that of Boromir's. Geniveve shook her head in shame, "Forgive me, Lord Faramir. I should've been more attentive."
Faramir waved his hand, "Please do not apologize, lady. I should've been paying attention as well."
She gave a small smile and Faramir gave Geniveve a nod and she went on her way to find Ioreth.
~~
After four days and hours of incessant badgering, Ioreth finally consented Geniveve to assist Dascha on short walks through the corridors. She wrapped Dascha in a cloak and allowed her to lean all of her weight on Geniveve.
As they set out into the hall, Dascha made her way very slowly; finding that her muscles had slightly atrophied. Geniveve held Dascha steadily and they spoke in hushed tones about Gondor and the weather. They walked past the walls, and it was there that Dascha bid them to stop.
"Who is that with Eowyn? He looks so much like-"
Geniveve nodded, "Like Boromir? That is his brother, Faramir."
Dascha continued to watch Eowyn and Faramir talking. Geniveve's heart dropped, knowing that Dascha was remembering Boromir. She pulled Dascha forward as Eowyn and Faramir continued on.
Dascha remained quiet the rest of the afternoon. Geniveve used the silence to collect her thoughts and look out the window to the darkening sky. Legolas was fighting out there in the evil land with Gandalf, Aragorn, Gimli, and Eomer. Such great men were not seen in her world; and if such men did appear, they were seen only every few decades, if not centuries.
Geniveve felt a huge sigh fill her lungs. Dascha broke from her reverie and turned to her friend; "You're worried, no?"
Geniveve nodded, "Yes. What if something goes wrong? What if something changes? What if us being here results in a huge cosmic shift?"
Dascha shook her head; "Legolas will be fine. He is a warrior."
~~
Two days later, the sky broke clear and new. Great eagles flew above Minas Tirith bringing the good news of the coming of the king. It was over. Geniveve's heart lifted, for the darkness had cleared.
Nearly to weeks later, Minas Tirith bustled with excitement as the people decorated and made the city festive. Legolas sent word to Geniveve and Dascha, asking them to come to the Field of Cormallen. Geniveve hurried to Eowyn's room and knocked on the door. Eowyn answered quickly and smiled at Geniveve, "Hello, Evangeline! You look like you are about to burst!"
Geniveve smiled, "Indeed I am. I just received word from Legolas. Are you going to Cormallen?"
Eowyn shook her head negatively, "No. Though, Eomer begs me to."
Geniveve looked confused, "Why not? You should be there. You killed the Witch-King. I on the other hand have done nothing."
Eowyn shook her head again, "Evangeline, it is not about what I have done."
Geniveve was hit by the realization moments later; "It's Aragorn."
Eowyn's shoulders drooped with the mention of his name. Geniveve sighed, "It's alright. I understand, yet I wish you would come."
Eowyn turned smoothly, "I shall help you both get ready. It will be quite formal."
Geniveve smacked her hand to her forehead and looked down to the brown dress she was wearing, "I can't go in this! All I have is a white one just like it. Everything else I own is at Edoras."
Eowyn smiled, "That will never do. I shall speak with Ioreth and the warden. Perhaps they could send for some gowns."
As Eowyn reached for the door, Geniveve followed her like a lost puppy. Ioreth nodded happily when Eowyn inquired it of her, "Never you mind, Lady Eowyn. You and Lady Evangeline will be well taken care of-"
Eowyn waved her hand at the older woman; "Oh you mean Lady Evangeline and Telvilya. I shan't be going."
Ioreth looked concerned, "But King Eomer, your brother, sent word."
Eowyn chuckled, "Indeed. I sent word back to the King, my brother, informing him that I would not be in attendance in Cormallen. Evangeline and Telvilya will be awaiting the gowns. Thank you very much, Ioreth for your help and concern."
Geniveve followed Eowyn back to her quarters, "Thank you, Eowyn."
Eowyn gave her a small smile and stepped inside, "They will be coming with the gowns soon, Evangeline. I will come in an hour or so."
Geniveve nodded and Eowyn returned to her quarters. As Geniveve walked back to her own, two older women appeared at the top of the stairs carrying armfuls of gowns.
~~
An hour later, Dascha and Geniveve sifted through the ten gowns discerningly. Each of them had five gowns from which to choose from. Geniveve decided on a silver-gray gown that hung slightly off her shoulders. It was thickly adorned with embroidery in lovely, intricate designs. One of the seamstresses pulled the top of Geniveve's hair back and wove through the braids fine, silver ribbons and left the rest hanging wavy and free down her back.
Dascha chose a plum colored gown with flared, satin-like sleeves. She wore her hair loose and it hung below her shoulders. Dascha had healed quickly, much more quickly than Ioreth had anticipated. She walked slowly, with a noticeable limp; however, she was on the mend.
As the seamstresses left, they told the girls to keep the rest of the gowns for the events to come. Geniveve smiled and thanked them. Suddenly, Eowyn walked through the door and smiled, "You both look radiant. Ioreth did not fail us."
Geniveve walked to Eowyn's side, "Are you sure you won't come?"
Eowyn nodded, "I am sure. Now you both must go. You will see me when you return."
Geniveve picked up the hem of her dress and took Dascha's arm to assist her in walking. She gave one last look to Eowyn, who merely nodded. Geniveve nodded in return and then led Dascha out the door.
~~
As Geniveve and Dascha entered the field, they were welcomed by sweet scents; a clear running stream and trees freckled with red blossoms on the branches. Geniveve took notice of all of the guards lined on both sides and the pageantry of the day.
Dascha pulled at Geniveve's sleeve, "There they are."
Geniveve followed Dascha's eyes to see Eomer, Gimli and Legolas standing where Aragorn sat on a throne holding his sword. Geniveve's eyes rested on Legolas, who was adorned in a silver-blue tunic. He looked quite different to her; yet he wore the same expression of calm and gentleness. She wished to run to him, but could not leave Dascha unassisted.
As they neared, Geniveve's pulse pounded in her temples with anticipation. Soon, they were standing before them and Geniveve smiled brightly. All eyes in the group turned to Dascha and Geniveve. Legolas smiled at her warmly and then wordlessly took a step towards her. Geniveve took his face in her hands; "You're back."
A tear rolled down her right cheek and she brushed it away, "I'm back. The War is over."
Legolas pulled her to him and they embraced. Geniveve sighed deep with relief and rested her head in the crook of his shoulder. Now she felt at home; at ease. Legolas kissed her brow and laughed tenderly, "Don't fret, melamin. I am not going anywhere."
She smiled blissfully and pulled away. Gimli laughed loudly, "Lassie! You are a sight for sore eyes! I hope that you'll be joining us when we eat!"
Geniveve chuckled and bent carefully to pat his shoulder, "I wouldn't miss it for the world."
As she straightened, she found herself toe to toe with King Eomer, who appraised her carefully; "The dwarf is right. A sight for sore eyes, indeed."
Geniveve blushed and bowed her head, "My lord, I am glad to see you."
Eomer nodded, "You and Telvilya both look well. May I inquire of my sister? Why did she not come down to the field today?"
Geniveve shrugged, "She would not tell me my lord. However, she refused to come."
Eomer fell silent with concern and Geniveve took her place between Legolas and Dascha. Legolas turned to her and whispered, "We have much to speak of, Geniveve."
Geniveve looked worriedly at him, "What's wrong?"
Legolas shook his head and smiled, "No, Geniveve it is nothing back. No ill tidings."
She breathed a sigh of relief, "Good."
Suddenly, Gandalf appeared with two small forms following him. Geniveve squinted against the sun and gasped with recognition. It was Frodo and Sam. Geniveve smiled brightly for she had thought about Sam frequently and the task he had set forth on with Frodo.
As the hobbits entered the field, the crowd began to cheer loudly. Geniveve smiled as the hobbits stood in awe of Aragorn on his throne and sang the song of their journey to those that looked on. When the celebration in the field ended, Geniveve left Legolas and Dascha's sides to see the hobbits.
As they followed Gandalf to where the meal was to be, Geniveve called after them; "Frodo! Sam!"
The hobbits looked up, shocked by the familiar voice. She ran to them excitedly and fell on her knees before them. Sam's eyes widened at the woman before them and he stammered, "Lady Geniveve? Is it truly you? I thought I would never see you again!"
Geniveve nodded and took him by the shoulders; "It is truly I, Samwise. I am so happy to see you here! I thought about the both of you all of the time!"
She pulled him close to her and hugged him tight. Sam sighed thickly, "I thought I'd never see anything again; and now I see you. It is a happy moment, but you have changed since Lothlorien."
She pulled back and looked at him in reverence, "I think we all have."
She kissed his cheeks and turned to Frodo who looked pale and thin, "Frodo, you've done it. You're a true hero. You were in my heart since the last I saw you."
Frodo nodded wearily, "Thank you, milady."
As she kissed Frodo's brow and stood before them, Gandalf approached smiling, "Ah, Lady Geniveve. I see you have welcomed your friends."
Geniveve smiled, "Almost."
She walked up to the wizard and threw her arms about him and embraced him. The wizard chuckled happily and patted her gently on the back. As she released Gandalf, she saw Eomer, Gimli, Aragorn, and Legolas (who assisted Dascha in walking) approaching quickly.
Aragorn smiled, "It is good to see Lady Dascha on the mend. And you Lady Geniveve, have grown lovelier with happiness."
Geniveve blushed lightly, "Thank you, my lord."
Gandalf offered Dascha his arm, "May I assist you to the meal, Lady Dascha? I think that Legolas's arm is needed elsewhere."
Dascha nodded and hobbled to Gandalf as Geniveve attached herself to Legolas's side. As they walked, she clutched his hand gently. She did not speak, she only smiled.
~~
After eating in the hall and merrily talking with the reunited friends, Geniveve went outside for fresh air; hoping that Legolas would follow soon after. She heard heavy footsteps behind her, not the quiet ones she associated with the Elf. As she spun on her heel she found King Eomer before her.
Geniveve looked flustered, "My lord, I thought you were-"
Eomer sighed roughly, "Such formalities, Evangeline? Or shall I call you Geniveve? I find it odd that you embrace the others with wide open arms while I am held at a distance."
Geniveve looked flabbergasted, "I'm sorry, my lord, forgive me."
Eomer stepped close to her, "I wish for you to call me Eomer."
Geniveve swallowed hard, "But you are King Eomer. I did not embrace Aragorn or call him by that name because he too is a king. I thought that it would be improper."
Eomer took her hands in his, "Lady, I have thought about nothing but you for weeks-even during battle. Even though you love Legolas, even though you claim immortality; when I saw you in the field today, I knew my heart was lost. I cannot rid you from my head or my heart. The mere idea of you shall haunt me."
Geniveve stood frozen; such words have never been spoken to her. Thunderstruck, Geniveve stammered, "I-I don't understand. What would you have me do?"
Eomer pulled her to him by the waist, his handsome face shadowed by the night sky; but she could still see the look in his eyes. Eomer's hands traveled to the small of her back, keeping her securely pressed against his torso. He pleaded with her, "Come to Edoras with me. Marry me and be my queen. Love me, Evangeline, and I will not fail you. I would risk anything to spend my days with you; to have you as a wife, queen, confidant, lover and mother to my heirs."
Geniveve felt sick, this talk was scaring her. Her vision blurred and her mind was besieged.
Eomer pleaded again, "Say something. Say anything."
Geniveve remained silent and in complete shock.
Eomer pulled her more tightly and searched her eyes desperately; "Do you not care for me at all?"
Geniveve cocked her head; "I care for you, Eomer, just not in the ways you wish me to."
Hope flickered in Eomer's eyes and he lowered his face to hers, "If you care for me you could love me. Why will you not allow yourself to?"
Geniveve sighed and try to escape from his grasp, but he would not relent, "Because you deserve better than me. If I were mortal you would be a better choice, but I would still love Legolas. I could never let him give up his immortality. Even if I could bring myself to love you, Eomer, it would not be true and therefore unfair to you. Imagine how our lives would be if I gave it all away? If I leave him his heart would break and he would die. Then, guilt-stricken, I would ride to Edoras and marry you; bear your children. I would watch you age and eventually die and see the deaths of our children, their children and so on and so forth. My great love would be dead as well as my husband and my children. I would have no one. If I left him, Eomer, it would kill my spirit and you would have naught but my shell. I will never betray him. He loves me and I him. I regret even pondering the scenario or speaking such terrible words."
Eomer still held her close, "What shall I do to prove myself to you?"
Geniveve shook her head, "I would have you do nothing but let this go. You and Legolas have forged a friendship the same that I have with your sister and you. Please do not give me this choice, you will only end up hurt. I care for you Eomer, but only as a dear friend. Is that not enough?"
Eomer shook his head; "It will never be enough. My dreams are plagued by you and my lips-"
Geniveve caught the curious look in his eyes and tried to gently push him away. Eomer kept one arm around her tightly and raised his free hand and traced an invisible line along her neck. She recoiled firmly, though he still bent his head to kiss the right side of her neck beneath her ear. His beard prickled against her skin as he gently kissed her. As Geniveve worked to get herself free, Eomer's hand tangled itself in her hair, thus hampering her escape.
Eomer raised his head slowly and met her eyes; "Perhaps I should take you away from here tonight. You would change your mind in time."
Geniveve looked at him in complete horror; "You wouldn't do that. Please, Eomer, listen to what you are saying."
Eomer looked to her sadly and then captured her mouth roughly with his own. Geniveve could not return the kiss. She would not return the kiss. When Eomer finally released her he looked her deep in the eyes, "You're right, I should not. It would not be a good move politically. And it will be much more satisfying when you come to me freely and return my kiss."
Geniveve felt tears rushing down her cheeks as he stalked off back into the hall. She fell on the ground and wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. Geniveve looked to the stars above her and waited for some kind of sign or guidance to be blessed upon her.
~~
A/N- A little disclaimer about Eomer. I really like him as a character and now that I have move past the conflict with the War and the Ring; I thought I should play with him a bit more. At one point I thought about Geniveve losing her memory and ending up with Eomer instead of Legolas. Just a thought and it would probably never come into fruition. Eomer isn't dangerous, in the next chapter we will see things from his POV and find out that this night he had too much ale and spoke things that he knew he should repress. He is a good guy-never you worry. It's conflict for the sake of conflict. Trouble in paradise as it were. I also hope to whip up someone for Dascha and a few of her own adventures. Please let me know what you think! Please Read and Review!
A/N: This story is the third part of "The Evangeline Series," the first part being found in the story "A Sorta Fairytale" and the second part in "Judgement of the Moon and Stars." Please read and review if you have not already done so. Happy reading!
PART THREE OF THE EVANGELINE SERIES:
Green and Gray
By Leah Pensotti
Chapter Three: A Mad Mission
The next day, Geniveve wandered through the halls of the Houses of Healing, glad to be free of the suffocating sadness that filled Dascha's room. She poked her head through the door of the room at the far end of the hall and found a white clad form lying in little light.
"Eowyn?"
The lady of Rohan turned to her friend and smiled, "I heard you were here, Evangeline. I also heard of the sad news. Tell me, how is Telvilya coming along?"
Geniveve fought back tears, "She wakes every few hours, yet she still sleeps a lot."
She sat on Eowyn's bed, "But I am glad to see you. How are you feeling?"
Eowyn sighed, "Saddened. Not to mention docile. The warden, per Aragorn's behest is holding me captive. He said to keep me here ten days! Ten days! My brother rides into battle and my uncle fell in glory. I cannot say that my heart did not seek death."
Geniveve felt her heart drop a bit, knowing that Eowyn's heart had broken. Dascha had gone to battle in search of freedom and victory, yet had found only pain. Dascha was right; she did deserve her own future. She loved adventure, and Geniveve could not begrudge her that; for Geniveve herself had found happiness. When Dascha came to, Geniveve would speak with her and they would have it out. She was Dascha's friend and she loved her.
Geniveve broke from her reverie and looked inquisitively to the shield maiden, "Are you alright? Is there anything I can get for you that you may need?"
Eowyn looked to her damaged left arm and then to Geniveve, "I need to get out of this bed, only my arm needs care."
Geniveve shrugged, "I dare not defy Ioreth or any of the healers. They are quite stern."
Eowyn looked determined, "Then I shall go to the warden tomorrow and state my case."
Geniveve smiled, "I shall visit tomorrow, for now-rest."
She bid farewell to Eowyn and went back to see Dascha. Her friend lay motionless in the small bed with the exception of the steady rise and fall of her chest. Geniveve sat in her chair-her appointed watch post. Her thoughts strayed to Legolas, Frodo, Sam and finally to Chris and Ivy.
Her eyelashes fluttered a bit and she drifted into an uneasy rest. For a moment, she was back in her kitchen drinking tea with Dascha, Ivy and Christopher. The kitchen felt warm and comforting; the very epicenter of her familial home. How she missed that feeling.
Geniveve looked across the table to her brother and Ivy. Ivy wore deep green and black, her hair black and shoulder length. Christopher's eyes were still the same greenish-gray as Geniveve's and they burned into her own. Dascha quietly sipped her tea and wore the navy running suit that she used to wear to the gym.
Geniveve looked to her own clothes and her favorite pajamas with the little stars glared back at her. Geniveve looked up to her friends and smiled, "So, how are things?"
Ivy took Christopher's hand in hers and met eyes with Geniveve, "We, uh, Christopher and I-we're engaged."
Geniveve gasped, "Really?"
Christopher nodded, "Yes, Evie."
She felt tears spring into her eyes, "You guys are getting married and I am gonna miss it."
Ivy smiled and patted her hand; "You'll be there. You'll never leave us."
Dascha grunted, "So how are you here? How are we talking? Is magic, no?"
Geniveve nodded, "Good call, Dascha. How are we doing this?"
Christopher smiled, "I think Lady Galadriel may have something to do with it."
Geniveve immediately knew this was true. She sipped her tea thoughtfully and looked to them again, "So when's the wedding?"
Christopher smiled to his fiancee, "Not for another year. I want to finish Medical school and Ivy wants to get her Bachelor's Degree."
Geniveve cried tears made equally of joy and pain, "That's great. I love you guys so much. I miss you."
Ivy nodded, "I miss you too, Evie. You and Dascha will both find happiness. I know that you already have."
Geniveve nodded and remembered Legolas, "Will we see you both again?"
Christopher squeezed her hand; "I believe so. I have faith that we will."
Lightening flashed through the window and prompted Geniveve's eyes to open. Her surroundings had changed. She was back in the chair in Minas Tirith. She looked to the bed to find Dascha looking directly back at her.
"Dascha! You're awake!"
She stumbled to her friend's side without grace and kissed her cheek, "I have so much to tell you. I just had a dream-"
Dascha smiled knowingly, "Ivy and Chris in the kitchen?"
Geniveve nodded in an astonished sort of way and Dascha merely smirked, "I was there, too."
Geniveve smiled, "Are you okay? Should I go get Ioreth?"
Dascha shook her head, "No, not yet."
Geniveve helped her to sit up in her bed and propped her feet up, "Is that better?"
Dascha sighed with relief, "Much."
Geniveve nodded and sat beside her friend; "Dascha, we need to talk. I have to apologize."
Dascha wrinkled her brow, "For what?"
Geniveve collected her thoughts and realized how painful it was to let go, "It was so stupid of me to get angry with you. I was so selfish, Dascha. I want you to be happy. If it is adventure you want, then I want it for you. You are my best friend; my sister. Please forgive me."
Dascha smiled faintly, "Thank you, Gen. But I was stupid too. I was jealous, no?"
Geniveve shook her head, "No."
Dascha chuckled, "I was jealous of you and Legolas. I was jealous that I no have something or someone else here."
"So what are your plans now? I mean, when you heal."
Dascha sighed, "I think I will take Ireth and travel. I want to see all of Middle-Earth."
Geniveve sat silently for a moment and then spoke; "Who knows what you'll find. It does sound nice, Dascha."
Dascha nodded, "It does. What about you Gen? What are your plans?"
Geniveve shrugged, "I think that I'd like to stay in one place for awhile. After the war, I'd like to be as calm and peaceful as I can. Perhaps write. My fingers have been itching to do that."
"What about Legolas?"
Geniveve felt her ears turn pink, "He fits in there, too. I just want him with me."
~~
The next morning, Geniveve helped Ioreth change Dascha's dressings and brought her food, for she had not eaten in quite some time. Ioreth gave Geniveve a new dress, this one a light brown and as plain and unornamented as the first.
After she changed, Geniveve sat with Dascha for awhile. Dascha was progressing well. Ioreth praised Aragorn's use of athelas for the miraculous turnarounds of Faramir, Eowyn, Merry and Dascha. Overall, though, Ioreth just praised Aragorn.
Dascha pulled herself up slowly with help from Geniveve and remarked, "Where is Eowyn?"
Geniveve smiled, "Down the hall. She is doing well; her left arm is broken and she wishes not to be trapped here."
Dascha sighed, "I understand. I can no sit in bed much longer."
Geniveve looked around; "Shall I go ask Ioreth if you can take walks? Or at least attempt to with my aid?"
Dascha nodded, "Would you? I think that would help."
Geniveve stood and gave her friend a cockeyed smile; "I'll be right back. Don't go anywhere."
She walked out the door and down the corridor. Before she made it to the end, she ran into a tall figure. Geniveve steadied herself and apologized, "I am sorry. I didn't see anyone there."
She looked up and met a familiar face; a face that resembled that of Boromir's. Geniveve shook her head in shame, "Forgive me, Lord Faramir. I should've been more attentive."
Faramir waved his hand, "Please do not apologize, lady. I should've been paying attention as well."
She gave a small smile and Faramir gave Geniveve a nod and she went on her way to find Ioreth.
~~
After four days and hours of incessant badgering, Ioreth finally consented Geniveve to assist Dascha on short walks through the corridors. She wrapped Dascha in a cloak and allowed her to lean all of her weight on Geniveve.
As they set out into the hall, Dascha made her way very slowly; finding that her muscles had slightly atrophied. Geniveve held Dascha steadily and they spoke in hushed tones about Gondor and the weather. They walked past the walls, and it was there that Dascha bid them to stop.
"Who is that with Eowyn? He looks so much like-"
Geniveve nodded, "Like Boromir? That is his brother, Faramir."
Dascha continued to watch Eowyn and Faramir talking. Geniveve's heart dropped, knowing that Dascha was remembering Boromir. She pulled Dascha forward as Eowyn and Faramir continued on.
Dascha remained quiet the rest of the afternoon. Geniveve used the silence to collect her thoughts and look out the window to the darkening sky. Legolas was fighting out there in the evil land with Gandalf, Aragorn, Gimli, and Eomer. Such great men were not seen in her world; and if such men did appear, they were seen only every few decades, if not centuries.
Geniveve felt a huge sigh fill her lungs. Dascha broke from her reverie and turned to her friend; "You're worried, no?"
Geniveve nodded, "Yes. What if something goes wrong? What if something changes? What if us being here results in a huge cosmic shift?"
Dascha shook her head; "Legolas will be fine. He is a warrior."
~~
Two days later, the sky broke clear and new. Great eagles flew above Minas Tirith bringing the good news of the coming of the king. It was over. Geniveve's heart lifted, for the darkness had cleared.
Nearly to weeks later, Minas Tirith bustled with excitement as the people decorated and made the city festive. Legolas sent word to Geniveve and Dascha, asking them to come to the Field of Cormallen. Geniveve hurried to Eowyn's room and knocked on the door. Eowyn answered quickly and smiled at Geniveve, "Hello, Evangeline! You look like you are about to burst!"
Geniveve smiled, "Indeed I am. I just received word from Legolas. Are you going to Cormallen?"
Eowyn shook her head negatively, "No. Though, Eomer begs me to."
Geniveve looked confused, "Why not? You should be there. You killed the Witch-King. I on the other hand have done nothing."
Eowyn shook her head again, "Evangeline, it is not about what I have done."
Geniveve was hit by the realization moments later; "It's Aragorn."
Eowyn's shoulders drooped with the mention of his name. Geniveve sighed, "It's alright. I understand, yet I wish you would come."
Eowyn turned smoothly, "I shall help you both get ready. It will be quite formal."
Geniveve smacked her hand to her forehead and looked down to the brown dress she was wearing, "I can't go in this! All I have is a white one just like it. Everything else I own is at Edoras."
Eowyn smiled, "That will never do. I shall speak with Ioreth and the warden. Perhaps they could send for some gowns."
As Eowyn reached for the door, Geniveve followed her like a lost puppy. Ioreth nodded happily when Eowyn inquired it of her, "Never you mind, Lady Eowyn. You and Lady Evangeline will be well taken care of-"
Eowyn waved her hand at the older woman; "Oh you mean Lady Evangeline and Telvilya. I shan't be going."
Ioreth looked concerned, "But King Eomer, your brother, sent word."
Eowyn chuckled, "Indeed. I sent word back to the King, my brother, informing him that I would not be in attendance in Cormallen. Evangeline and Telvilya will be awaiting the gowns. Thank you very much, Ioreth for your help and concern."
Geniveve followed Eowyn back to her quarters, "Thank you, Eowyn."
Eowyn gave her a small smile and stepped inside, "They will be coming with the gowns soon, Evangeline. I will come in an hour or so."
Geniveve nodded and Eowyn returned to her quarters. As Geniveve walked back to her own, two older women appeared at the top of the stairs carrying armfuls of gowns.
~~
An hour later, Dascha and Geniveve sifted through the ten gowns discerningly. Each of them had five gowns from which to choose from. Geniveve decided on a silver-gray gown that hung slightly off her shoulders. It was thickly adorned with embroidery in lovely, intricate designs. One of the seamstresses pulled the top of Geniveve's hair back and wove through the braids fine, silver ribbons and left the rest hanging wavy and free down her back.
Dascha chose a plum colored gown with flared, satin-like sleeves. She wore her hair loose and it hung below her shoulders. Dascha had healed quickly, much more quickly than Ioreth had anticipated. She walked slowly, with a noticeable limp; however, she was on the mend.
As the seamstresses left, they told the girls to keep the rest of the gowns for the events to come. Geniveve smiled and thanked them. Suddenly, Eowyn walked through the door and smiled, "You both look radiant. Ioreth did not fail us."
Geniveve walked to Eowyn's side, "Are you sure you won't come?"
Eowyn nodded, "I am sure. Now you both must go. You will see me when you return."
Geniveve picked up the hem of her dress and took Dascha's arm to assist her in walking. She gave one last look to Eowyn, who merely nodded. Geniveve nodded in return and then led Dascha out the door.
~~
As Geniveve and Dascha entered the field, they were welcomed by sweet scents; a clear running stream and trees freckled with red blossoms on the branches. Geniveve took notice of all of the guards lined on both sides and the pageantry of the day.
Dascha pulled at Geniveve's sleeve, "There they are."
Geniveve followed Dascha's eyes to see Eomer, Gimli and Legolas standing where Aragorn sat on a throne holding his sword. Geniveve's eyes rested on Legolas, who was adorned in a silver-blue tunic. He looked quite different to her; yet he wore the same expression of calm and gentleness. She wished to run to him, but could not leave Dascha unassisted.
As they neared, Geniveve's pulse pounded in her temples with anticipation. Soon, they were standing before them and Geniveve smiled brightly. All eyes in the group turned to Dascha and Geniveve. Legolas smiled at her warmly and then wordlessly took a step towards her. Geniveve took his face in her hands; "You're back."
A tear rolled down her right cheek and she brushed it away, "I'm back. The War is over."
Legolas pulled her to him and they embraced. Geniveve sighed deep with relief and rested her head in the crook of his shoulder. Now she felt at home; at ease. Legolas kissed her brow and laughed tenderly, "Don't fret, melamin. I am not going anywhere."
She smiled blissfully and pulled away. Gimli laughed loudly, "Lassie! You are a sight for sore eyes! I hope that you'll be joining us when we eat!"
Geniveve chuckled and bent carefully to pat his shoulder, "I wouldn't miss it for the world."
As she straightened, she found herself toe to toe with King Eomer, who appraised her carefully; "The dwarf is right. A sight for sore eyes, indeed."
Geniveve blushed and bowed her head, "My lord, I am glad to see you."
Eomer nodded, "You and Telvilya both look well. May I inquire of my sister? Why did she not come down to the field today?"
Geniveve shrugged, "She would not tell me my lord. However, she refused to come."
Eomer fell silent with concern and Geniveve took her place between Legolas and Dascha. Legolas turned to her and whispered, "We have much to speak of, Geniveve."
Geniveve looked worriedly at him, "What's wrong?"
Legolas shook his head and smiled, "No, Geniveve it is nothing back. No ill tidings."
She breathed a sigh of relief, "Good."
Suddenly, Gandalf appeared with two small forms following him. Geniveve squinted against the sun and gasped with recognition. It was Frodo and Sam. Geniveve smiled brightly for she had thought about Sam frequently and the task he had set forth on with Frodo.
As the hobbits entered the field, the crowd began to cheer loudly. Geniveve smiled as the hobbits stood in awe of Aragorn on his throne and sang the song of their journey to those that looked on. When the celebration in the field ended, Geniveve left Legolas and Dascha's sides to see the hobbits.
As they followed Gandalf to where the meal was to be, Geniveve called after them; "Frodo! Sam!"
The hobbits looked up, shocked by the familiar voice. She ran to them excitedly and fell on her knees before them. Sam's eyes widened at the woman before them and he stammered, "Lady Geniveve? Is it truly you? I thought I would never see you again!"
Geniveve nodded and took him by the shoulders; "It is truly I, Samwise. I am so happy to see you here! I thought about the both of you all of the time!"
She pulled him close to her and hugged him tight. Sam sighed thickly, "I thought I'd never see anything again; and now I see you. It is a happy moment, but you have changed since Lothlorien."
She pulled back and looked at him in reverence, "I think we all have."
She kissed his cheeks and turned to Frodo who looked pale and thin, "Frodo, you've done it. You're a true hero. You were in my heart since the last I saw you."
Frodo nodded wearily, "Thank you, milady."
As she kissed Frodo's brow and stood before them, Gandalf approached smiling, "Ah, Lady Geniveve. I see you have welcomed your friends."
Geniveve smiled, "Almost."
She walked up to the wizard and threw her arms about him and embraced him. The wizard chuckled happily and patted her gently on the back. As she released Gandalf, she saw Eomer, Gimli, Aragorn, and Legolas (who assisted Dascha in walking) approaching quickly.
Aragorn smiled, "It is good to see Lady Dascha on the mend. And you Lady Geniveve, have grown lovelier with happiness."
Geniveve blushed lightly, "Thank you, my lord."
Gandalf offered Dascha his arm, "May I assist you to the meal, Lady Dascha? I think that Legolas's arm is needed elsewhere."
Dascha nodded and hobbled to Gandalf as Geniveve attached herself to Legolas's side. As they walked, she clutched his hand gently. She did not speak, she only smiled.
~~
After eating in the hall and merrily talking with the reunited friends, Geniveve went outside for fresh air; hoping that Legolas would follow soon after. She heard heavy footsteps behind her, not the quiet ones she associated with the Elf. As she spun on her heel she found King Eomer before her.
Geniveve looked flustered, "My lord, I thought you were-"
Eomer sighed roughly, "Such formalities, Evangeline? Or shall I call you Geniveve? I find it odd that you embrace the others with wide open arms while I am held at a distance."
Geniveve looked flabbergasted, "I'm sorry, my lord, forgive me."
Eomer stepped close to her, "I wish for you to call me Eomer."
Geniveve swallowed hard, "But you are King Eomer. I did not embrace Aragorn or call him by that name because he too is a king. I thought that it would be improper."
Eomer took her hands in his, "Lady, I have thought about nothing but you for weeks-even during battle. Even though you love Legolas, even though you claim immortality; when I saw you in the field today, I knew my heart was lost. I cannot rid you from my head or my heart. The mere idea of you shall haunt me."
Geniveve stood frozen; such words have never been spoken to her. Thunderstruck, Geniveve stammered, "I-I don't understand. What would you have me do?"
Eomer pulled her to him by the waist, his handsome face shadowed by the night sky; but she could still see the look in his eyes. Eomer's hands traveled to the small of her back, keeping her securely pressed against his torso. He pleaded with her, "Come to Edoras with me. Marry me and be my queen. Love me, Evangeline, and I will not fail you. I would risk anything to spend my days with you; to have you as a wife, queen, confidant, lover and mother to my heirs."
Geniveve felt sick, this talk was scaring her. Her vision blurred and her mind was besieged.
Eomer pleaded again, "Say something. Say anything."
Geniveve remained silent and in complete shock.
Eomer pulled her more tightly and searched her eyes desperately; "Do you not care for me at all?"
Geniveve cocked her head; "I care for you, Eomer, just not in the ways you wish me to."
Hope flickered in Eomer's eyes and he lowered his face to hers, "If you care for me you could love me. Why will you not allow yourself to?"
Geniveve sighed and try to escape from his grasp, but he would not relent, "Because you deserve better than me. If I were mortal you would be a better choice, but I would still love Legolas. I could never let him give up his immortality. Even if I could bring myself to love you, Eomer, it would not be true and therefore unfair to you. Imagine how our lives would be if I gave it all away? If I leave him his heart would break and he would die. Then, guilt-stricken, I would ride to Edoras and marry you; bear your children. I would watch you age and eventually die and see the deaths of our children, their children and so on and so forth. My great love would be dead as well as my husband and my children. I would have no one. If I left him, Eomer, it would kill my spirit and you would have naught but my shell. I will never betray him. He loves me and I him. I regret even pondering the scenario or speaking such terrible words."
Eomer still held her close, "What shall I do to prove myself to you?"
Geniveve shook her head, "I would have you do nothing but let this go. You and Legolas have forged a friendship the same that I have with your sister and you. Please do not give me this choice, you will only end up hurt. I care for you Eomer, but only as a dear friend. Is that not enough?"
Eomer shook his head; "It will never be enough. My dreams are plagued by you and my lips-"
Geniveve caught the curious look in his eyes and tried to gently push him away. Eomer kept one arm around her tightly and raised his free hand and traced an invisible line along her neck. She recoiled firmly, though he still bent his head to kiss the right side of her neck beneath her ear. His beard prickled against her skin as he gently kissed her. As Geniveve worked to get herself free, Eomer's hand tangled itself in her hair, thus hampering her escape.
Eomer raised his head slowly and met her eyes; "Perhaps I should take you away from here tonight. You would change your mind in time."
Geniveve looked at him in complete horror; "You wouldn't do that. Please, Eomer, listen to what you are saying."
Eomer looked to her sadly and then captured her mouth roughly with his own. Geniveve could not return the kiss. She would not return the kiss. When Eomer finally released her he looked her deep in the eyes, "You're right, I should not. It would not be a good move politically. And it will be much more satisfying when you come to me freely and return my kiss."
Geniveve felt tears rushing down her cheeks as he stalked off back into the hall. She fell on the ground and wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. Geniveve looked to the stars above her and waited for some kind of sign or guidance to be blessed upon her.
~~
A/N- A little disclaimer about Eomer. I really like him as a character and now that I have move past the conflict with the War and the Ring; I thought I should play with him a bit more. At one point I thought about Geniveve losing her memory and ending up with Eomer instead of Legolas. Just a thought and it would probably never come into fruition. Eomer isn't dangerous, in the next chapter we will see things from his POV and find out that this night he had too much ale and spoke things that he knew he should repress. He is a good guy-never you worry. It's conflict for the sake of conflict. Trouble in paradise as it were. I also hope to whip up someone for Dascha and a few of her own adventures. Please let me know what you think! Please Read and Review!