Moria's Revenge,
Authors: Kookaburra & Llinos
Beta and additional material: MarigoldG
A/N: Llinos here. We now have the benefit of three people working on this story. In case anyone wonders how that works, in this chapter for example Kookaburra wrote the first three sections and then an outline of where she saw it going and then I took over and wrote all of the remaining sections roughly following the outline but taking things much further. In the meantime, Marigold, who is currently staying at my house, sits and throws plot bunnies at me, reads and comments as I go along and finally beta's the whole thing. In this instance she also wrote a bit, including the last line!
A/N: Kookaburra speaking- I have added material to chapter 26- specifically right after Aragorn and Melystra give Pip his bath- (It's about the socks) you can read it at Nindaiwe.com or on Starseekers site, or the Repost of MR. The links to both of them are on my author bio page.
Chapter 29: Watched
***
Aragorn's arms ached. First he had strained them helping to move the fallen talan, and now he was holding Frodo off of the bed while Silael carefully bound the small hobbit's wounds. Frodo's slight weight was not the reason for Aragorn's discomfort. Rather it was having to discipline his muscles to hold Frodo perfectly still, while carefully supporting his head and concentrating on not putting any pressure on his injured throat. The hobbit continued to breathe on his own, however, the horrid rattling noise was still present.
Silael finished off the bandage and tied it in place. He looked gravely up at Aragorn and nodded. As Aragorn started to lower Frodo back onto the bed, Silael stopped him with an outstretched hand.
"Turn him over onto his back, it will help with his breathing," the elf instructed.
Gingerly, Aragorn did as he was told although he did not miss Frodo's tiny wince of pain, and hitch of breath as his full weight was placed on his injured back. The ranger smoothed back the sweat and blood-soaked curls from Frodo's forehead.
"Peace, little one, I know you are in much pain but please...stay with us, Frodo." Aragorn sent a silent prayer to the Valar for the Ringbearer's recovery.
0-***-0
Boromir straightened his back from helping Deilen set a broken leg, and looked around for another task, only to find that thankfully there were none. Melystra was giving the concussed elf more pillows, and Legolas, Gimli, and Sam were seated on a padded bench out of the way of the healers. Stretching his aching muscles and relishing the pleasant pops as the tension in his back released, Boromir made his way over to his friends.
Gimli was massaging Sam's shoulder in a reassuring way, while the hobbit wept silently, head buried in his hands. Legolas looked up at Boromir's approach, and indicated the seat next to him. The Gondorian lowered himself down with a sigh of relief. He was bone-weary, and worried sick for Frodo and especially afraid for Pippin. How much could the littlest one endure after all?
All four looked up as Silael walked into the room. He spoke quietly for a brief moment in Sindarin to Deilen and Melystra, then made his way over to the bench to the waiting members of the Fellowship "You may go in and see your companion now...but," added the Healer as Sam stood hurriedly, ready to rush into the anteroom. "You must be very quiet. I will not lie to you. Young Frodo is not out of danger yet. It is no certainty that he will survive this night, and even more uncertain whether he will ever regain consciousness."
At these words, Sam thought his heart would burst. His poor Master Frodo, who he loved with all of his being might be dead before morning, or worse, if anything could be worse, he might never awaken. Sam thought back to Rivendell, when he and Mr. Bilbo would sit in all night vigils, straining to catch the slightest sign of life - a change in Frodo's laboured breathing, a twitch, or even the flicker of an eyelid. The most horrible few days in his entire life were repeating, and he could do nothing to stop it.
Legolas shrewdly eyed Silael. "There is yet something you are not telling us." He stated baldly.
"Yes, there is," replied Silael, "though it is not my place to tell you. It is Estel's wish that he be the one to speak further to you of Frodo's condition." The elder elf inclined his head in a small bow and took his leave of them.
Sam restrained himself from running and made for the door that separated him from his master, followed by the others. As he entered, he slowed even more, and walked silently, as only a hobbit can, over next to Mr. Strider at Frodo's bedside. The ranger reached out and pulled the distraught hobbit into a tight embrace. They stayed like that for several minutes, and Sam was surprised and frightened to hear Strider weeping as well. More arms encircled them as Legolas joined the embrace. Gimli and Boromir stood on the other side of Frodo's bed, heads bowed in respect to the fragile life that lay before them, struggling to survive.
At last Aragorn, Sam, and Legolas broke apart. Sam mopped his tear-streaked face with his handkerchief. Aragorn surreptitiously dried his eyes while Sam and the others pretended not to notice. While they had been able to work somewhat through their grief at the loss of Gandalf and then the horrors endured by poor Pippin, Aragorn had had to be their strength. This dire wounding of Frodo while in a place they had all considered safe beyond all question was the final blow to their leader and they found no shame in his tears, though they knew that Aragorn would not agree.
When Gimli was quite sure that Aragorn was under control, he asked in a gruff voice, "Master Silael told us you would tell us of the extent of young Frodo's ills. Will you do so now?"
Aragorn nodded, and, after taking a deep breath, began. "First of course, there is the danger that his windpipe could collapse. That injury is what is making the rattling noise when he breathes. But the greatest concern is that Frodo may have suffered permanent damage to his mind." He stopped, unable to continue though he had requested to Silael that he be the one to break this possibility to his companions, thinking it would be easier to hear from the lips of a friend rather than a healer.
Sam gaped up at Strider. "W-what do you mean by that, Mr. Strider? How..." Legolas put an arm around Sam's shoulders and gave the hobbit a comforting squeeze.
"I believe," said the elf, after an assenting nod from Aragorn, "that it is because Frodo was without air for a length of time. If unable to breathe for any significant time, part of the mind can suffocate, and so die. If Frodo lives, there is the possibility that he may not be able to remember, or communicate or move as well as he used to do before he was hurt."
"B-b-but," Sam stuttered, "Mr. Frodo will recognise me won't he? He'll know his Sam, surely?" Legolas hugged him tighter. "There are no guarantees, little one. We can only wait." Sam began to cry anew, silent tears that would not disturb his master, though he shook with the force of them.
0-***-0
Pippin snuggled into Merry's comforting embrace, drawing shaky breaths, exhausted from the telling of what had happened in the chamber.
Merry looked up as Galadriel rose to leave. "Is Pippin all right, Milady?" he asked, holding his Pip just a little tighter, but still carefully so as not to hurt him. "Is there anything I should do for him? I know it was all right, you being in his mind, because you know how, but was it all right I was there too? I've never done anything like that before."
Galadriel gave him a gentle smile. "Do not be troubled, dear Merry. It was not unhealthy for Peregrin to have you in his thoughts, you dwell there always, though not in quite the same way as you just experienced. However, this was extremely tiring for him. It would be good for him to have some water, and then rest. You may go to where the Ringbearer lies and tell your companions what truly happened."
"But what of poor Icicle? Is she really dead?" Merry had heard the story from Pippin but was not completely sure if it was a nightmare or reality. "Did an elf really kill her?"
Resting her alabaster hand on Merry's head, Galadriel said, "Yes, Meriadoc, I am afraid both are true. Haldir, the elf who brought you here and was tasked to protect you, came in just as the nestraden naneth was nuzzling Frodo. He mistakenly assumed that she was the one who attacked Frodo, and was about to kill him. He shot prematurely I am afraid. His action shall be addressed."
"Oh." said Merry quietly. "Poor Icicle! And poor Pip! But...Haldir." he trailed off and lowered his eyes.
"But what, Merry?" Galadriel said softly, placing one finger under his chin and lifting his gaze to meet hers. "Haldir must be brought to account for this deed."
"I don't think you should punish Haldir, Milady." Merry cast his eyes down shyly at his boldness in expressing his opinion. "He was doing his duty, protecting Frodo, I mean, and, well, if I had come upon Icicle and Frodo like that, and I had a bow, I might have done the same thing."
"You do not wish for retribution? To avenge the nestraden naneth that succoured your little cousin?" Galadriel asked.
"Oh, no Milady! I shouldn't want that! I mean it isn't really my place to decide whether Icicle should be avenged, it's Pip's, really, but I'm certain he would not want it either."
"Good Merry, I am glad you feel that way but not surprised" Galadriel placed her hand once more on Merry's curls and then lightly touched Pippin's cheek with the back of her other hand, "If periain were to desire vengeance they would lose much of themselves."
0-***-0
"It would be best if you all left now." Deilen had come quietly into Frodo's chamber. "There is little else that you can do now but wait and I will sit with the perian through the next several hours and Melystra will follow me."
"But I cannot leave Mr Frodo." Sam looked defiantly up at the elf. "I made a promise once and I'm not about to break it now."
"Did you little one?" Deilen smiled kindly. "To whom did you make the promise?"
"To Mr Gandalf." Sam looked at his hairy feet, too overcome with emotion to meet the elf's knowing eyes. "an' I realise he's not here an' all, but a promise is a promise."
"Then you should not break it." Deilen agreed. "You shall keep vigil with me. But I entreat the rest of the company to take what rest you may, I don't doubt you need it and I will call for you if there is need."
Aragorn stood wearily, realising that Deilen was right and that rest would be the most useful action he could take now. "I will return as soon as I am refreshed." He promised Sam. "Come Boromir, Legolas, Gimli, we should heed the wise counsel and take some repose."
As they left the chamber each patted Sam on the shoulder or hugged him in sympathy. The hobbit drew up a high backed chair as close to the big bed as he could manage then climbed on board and sat with his arms folded, his eyes firmly fixed on Frodo as if he could, by his very gaze, will him better.
0-***-0
"Merry?" A little voice tickled Merry's ear just as he was dozing off to sleep, "Where's Frodo?"
"He's in a chamber near here, my Pip." Merry was immediately wide-awake, not having meant to sleep at all. He realised that perhaps there was some residual effect from the drink Deilen had given to him. "I don't know how he is though."
"Merr-ry," Pippin used his time honoured Merry-cajoling tone. "Can we see him? Please! I don't want to close my eyes anymore unless I know Frodo is all right."
Merry was quietly rejoicing over Pippin's improvement. He was even remembering to use his 'Merry-will-do-anything-I-want' voice. At the same time Merry was deeply worried about Frodo too and desperately wanted to see him and poor Sam himself. "I'll peep outside and see if we can." He told Pippin. "You wait here and be good for a moment."
"No no no! Merry" Pippin cried in panic, "don't leave me! Please not alone, Merry!"
"It's all right, my Pip." Merry turned back at once and caught Pippin in his arms, feeling his cousin's heart racing as he held him close. "I won't leave you, promise, I won't leave you."
"Sorry, Merry." Pippin realised that his big cousin was not going far. "I got scared." Pippin looked up into Merry's face with large, frightened eyes, as if he expected to be punished or reprimanded.
"That's all right, my Pip." Merry did not want to make a fuss about it. "Can you walk do you think?"
"Can try." If Merry wanted him to walk, then he would, all the way to Harad if his beloved cousin asked.
Merry climbed down off the bed and then turned and held his arms out to Pippin. "Turn on your tummy Pip and slide down so I can catch you." So slowly that his movements were almost imperceptible, Pippin lay face down on the edge of the bed and let his feet dangle over the side. His socks fell off first and then he gradually followed them, Merry guiding his descent, finally catching him and sitting him down on the floor.
Merry sat next to Pippin and carefully put the big woollen stockings back on the shaven feet and waited while Pip got his breath back. Then he stood and held out both his hands. Pippin grasped on and was pulled gently to his feet, although he was still a little doubled over. Together, very slowly they walked to the chamber door.
"Ohh Merry, wait!" Pippin suddenly doubled over even more and pulled his hand away and tried to cross his legs at the same time. "I think I need the privy!" He whispered. "I don't know where, Merry!"
"Don't worry my Pip." Merry sat Pippin down where he was. "Wait there, you can still see me. Oh and try to hold on." He ran quickly to the cupboard where he had seen Deilen put the required item before.
"Quickly Merry!" Pippin nearly howled, using his hand now to assist his crossed legs. "I need to go!"
Merry ran back and placed the large chamber pot on the ground and stood Pippin up by hauling him under his armpits from behind. Just in time, between them, they got the nightshirt out of the way and Pippin heaved a sigh of great relief as he finally managed what he needed alone and unaided. Merry mentally marked this off as another recovery milestone.
Once everything, including hands, were cleaned and the pot stored away they started their odyssey again. Merry tentatively opened the door to outside and, seeing no one about, took Pippin's hands in his and walked him carefully along.
Pippin went very slowly and had to stop every so often. He still hurt over most of his body and he was very stiff, so Merry walked backwards holding the little hands up to give him the most support.
Merry took a sharp breath as a door in the corridor opened suddenly. He was not too sure that he should be walking the little invalid around and as he turned his head to see who was there Pippin sank down onto the floor again.
"Merry where are you going with Pippin?" Aragorn asked him rather puzzled that he should be attempting such a thing. Boromir, Gimli and Legolas were just behind him and Merry guessed that this must be the chamber where Frodo was.
"We wanted to see Frodo." Merry said simply and truthfully. "Pip couldn't go to sleep without, and I was worried too."
"Well, I suppose you better had." Aragorn shrugged to the others and walked forward to carefully lift Pippin up. "How are you feeling, Pippin? Have you walked all the way from the other room?"
"Yes, I have." Pippin looked nervously around him, a little overawed once more to have so many people looking at him at once.
"And." Merry added in a conspiratorial whisper for Aragorn's ears only, "he used the chamber pot!"
"He's doing well Merry That means his systems are recovering from the shock of his ordeal." Aragorn smiled down at Pippin, then with a frown turned back to Merry. "Was Pippin able to tell what took place?"
Merry looked at the ground and nodded.
Melystra overheard the exchange and glided over to the group. "The Lady informed me of what transpired. I will tell you, but it would not be helpful for the periain to hear it again. Why don't you take them into Frodo, and then we shall talk."
Aragorn nodded curtly, then looked back down at Pippin and smiled. "Well done Pip for walking so far, I'll carry you the rest of the way, you look weary now."
Legolas and Gimli smiled at Pippin and Boromir put his great hand on the small head and was rewarded with the best smile he had seen from the smallest hobbit since before Moria. The others then said goodbye and went on to the stairs, as Aragorn with Merry in tow, went back to the chamber. He nodded to Deilen. "Frodo has some more anxious visitors, may they stay a little while?" He set Pippin down to stand shakily with Merry's help and added in a lower tone. "It might be good for Sam to have some company too."
Deilen nodded and picked Pippin up once more. "If you promise not to wriggle or move you may sit at the very end of the bed. Can you do that?"
Pippin nodded to the elf and was set down on the far end of the bed. In the meantime Merry had gone to Sam and put his arm on his shoulder. "Sam? I'm sure he'll pull through."
"But he looks so ill Mr Merry." Sam's bottom lip trembled against more tears waiting to fall. "an' after all he's had already, what with Weathertop an' losin' Mr Gandalf an' then poor little Pippin an' all that happened."
"Come on Sam," Merry squeezed his shoulder. "We hobbits are made of sterner stuff than we look. After all, even Pip's getting better now and look at what he went through."
"I know." Sam sniffed. "He's looking a bit brighter, Mr Pippin I mean."
"Would you like to sit up on the bed too Sam?" Deilen asked kindly, realising that poor Sam had been planning to spend the night on the hard straight-backed chair and Frodo only just came halfway to the end of the bed so there was plenty of room.
Without waiting for an answer, as Sam seemed a little unsure as to whether it would be proper for him to sit on his master's bed, Deilen plucked him up under the arms and set him carefully down next to Pippin. The elf then looked quizzically at Merry who nodded and was lifted up to be placed on the other side of Pippin. The three fitted nicely along the foot of the bed where they could easily see Frodo's chest steadily rising and falling.
Pippin looked at Sam's tear-stained face and then back at Merry who nudged his little cousin encouragingly. Pippin up until now had not offered close physical contact to anyone besides Merry, but Sam looked so distraught and Frodo looked so ill. Pippin's eyes filled up with tears and he stretched his sore arms to reach around Sam's neck and buried his face in the little gardener's shoulder as he whispered, "Poor Sam, poor Frodo."
"Oh Pip," Sam breathed back. There was nothing else any of them could say so they just sat and held each others' hands and watched Frodo clinging tenaciously to life, even in his beleaguered state, the Ring of Power still lying on his labouring chest.
After what seemed like an eternity, Sam lifted his face from Pippin's curls and looked over at Merry. "Mr. Merry, sir?" he said quietly, so as not to disturb Pippin, who was now snoring softly.
Merry looked up from his musings. "Yes, Sam?"
Sam checked to make sure Pippin was really asleep, and asked, "Begging your pardon, but what did happen," Sam nodded his head in the direction of Pippin's original room, "In there?"
"Oh." Merry looked back down at the rich coverlet. "I-it was Gollum." At Sam's wide-eyed look of disbelief, Merry nodded as if to back up his story and continued. "Pippin said Gollum came in and attacked Frodo, then Icicle attacked Gollum, and drove him off right before Haldir came in, and saw Icicle..."
"Covered in blood next to Mr. Frodo." Sam finished. "If I ever have the chance to get my hands on that stinker I'll..." he growled, but left the rest unsaid, as he did not think that what he really wanted to do to the monster that attacked Frodo was fit for young Mr Pippin's ears, him being a gentlehobbit and all.
0-****-0
Aragorn, Gimli and Boromir were bone weary, it had been a long day and, although only half spent, they had worked hard on the rescue and the added trauma had made them more tired than mere labour. Legolas was still alert, but even his elven senses were weary and in need of recuperation. He favoured the thought of a reviving walk through the Golden Wood.
Haldir awaited the four as they came down from the healing chamber. The elf had been too contrite and overcome with guilt to visit the hobbit himself. Galadriel had informed him of Icicle's confirmed innocence and that in fact she was most probably Frodo's saviour and the impetuous elf was mortified with shame. "How fares the perian?" He asked Aragorn.
"Which one," The ranger returned in surprise. "Pippin or Frodo, Merry or Sam? They are each of them suffering in some way."
Haldir glanced at the forest floor in embarrassment, "The littlest one - I deeply regret having killed his warg. I mean the nestraden naneth." He added quickly, "and the Ringbearer how fares he?"
"Pippin is mostly upset about Frodo, who is still breathing at least." Aragorn explained. "I don't believe the loss of Icicle has truly sunk in yet. I fear it will be hard for Pippin when it does."
"Is there something," Haldir paused for a deep breath, "anything, I can do? Anything that will repair the damage I have caused with my impetuous behaviour?" "You cannot be blamed for acting as you did." Legolas said gently, although the eyes of the other three told Haldir a different story. "What is done may not be undone." "In the meantime," Aragorn yawned involuntarily, "you could perform a small service by keeping watch over the hobbits. They are in Frodo's chamber and Pippin probably should not stay there all night. He needs to be persuaded back to his own bed. Deilen is there and will help, but he cannot leave Frodo, and Merry cannot carry the little one easily." "I will go at once," Haldir confirmed, "although I fear the periain may not wish to see me after what has happened."
0-****-0
Frodo drew another breath and Sam's almost stopped as he waited for the next. Each time Frodo's chest rose and fell the little gardener would tense, as if breathing in time with his master would help him to draw more air. With every gasp Pippin, feeling the tension in Sam, would squeeze his arm and Merry in turn kept up a soothing stroking on Pippin's hair.
Suddenly Frodo's air intake changed and the three hobbits froze in unison. Frodo's nose twitched slightly and he licked at his lips. Sam gasped and leaned forward, "Mr Frodo, Mr Frodo!" Frodo's eyes opened and he blinked them shut again against the light. "Mr Frodo?" Sam called again.
Merry meanwhile called for the healer elf. "Mr Deilen, Sir, come quickly! We think Frodo is waking!"
Deilen rushed to the chamber from a side room to find Frodo blinking owlishly at the three hobbits as Sam held one of his hands and Merry the other while Pippin had hold of Frodo's foot.
The breathing was still painful and laboured and the bigger test would be if Frodo could recognise his cousins, friends and surroundings. "Mr Frodo!" Sam whispered urgently again, "It's me your Sam, can you remember anything?"
"Steady, Samwise," Deilen counselled. "Do not rush him."
Frodo looked at Sam as if not really seeing him to begin with but gradually the clouds moved from his delicate features and he mouthed his name, "Sam." No sound came but the lip movements were clearly discernable.
Sam looked up at Deilen with great joy written on his face, "He knows me Mr Deilen, Sir! Mr Frodo recognised me."
Frodo then became aware of Merry on his other side and mouthed to him, his brow drawn tight in query, "Pip?"
"He's all right Frodo," Merry confirmed and moved behind his smaller cousin so that he could lift him up into Frodo's field of vision, "He's right here, see."
Frodo had moved his head slightly so that he could see Pippin and the tiny movement had taken much out of him. He closed his eyes once more and settled back down to his painful breathing.
Deilen touched Frodo's forehead and then felt his heartbeat. "His fever is low and he recognised all in the chamber, a good sign, my friends." The elf smiled at the three hobbits, "I think your cousin will recover."
At that moment Haldir came to the chamber. "Deilen, I have come to offer my services. Estel said you may think it time for the little one, Pippin, to go back to his own chamber and that I should bear him there."
"That would be wise indeed." Deilen turned to Pippin who was still holding Frodo's foot. "Come Pippin, it is time for you to rest now. You have seen Frodo awake so you may sleep in comfort now. Haldir will carry you to your own chamber."
"Can I stay with Frodo?" Pippin asked.
"I think it would be better for you both if you slept in your own beds tonight." Deilen told him kindly. "Frodo needs to rest quietly and so do you."
"Can Merry come with me?" Pippin asked with a slight note of panic in his voice. "I don't want to go without."
"Of course I'll come with you my Pip," Merry chimed in. "I told you I wouldn't leave you and I won't."
"Very well," Haldir bent to lift Pippin up, but Deilen stayed his hand while Pippin stroked Frodo's foot goodbye and whispered his 'good night' to his cousin. Then the healer elf nodded for Haldir to continue. He picked the hobbit up under his arms and laid him over his shoulder. Merry frowned a bit as Aragorn usually carried Pippin in his arms, but he let it pass as his cousin had not complained and jumped down from the bed after kissing Frodo lightly on the forehead and giving Sam a hug.
"Bye Sam," Pippin called quietly so as not to disturb the now sleeping Frodo. "See you tomorrow."
"Night-night, Mr Pippin, Mr Merry," Sam answered sotto voce, "Sleep well."
Haldir made the way along the corridor to Pippin's chamber but when they had nearly reached the room Merry, who did not like Pippin being carried like a potato sack, pulled at Haldir's tunic. "I think you should put Pip down now and I'll help him to walk. Aragorn says it's good for him to walk."
Haldir sighed and set the wobbly hobbit on his feet and took hold of his hand instead. Merry held Pippin's other hand and very slowly he walked along into his own chamber. As they passed the first entrance, the door to the inner room, where Icicle's body lay covered by the sheet, had been left open inadvertently and as Pippin shuffled by he caught sight the white fur of his beloved Umumum. Giving a little gasp of horror and sadness, Pippin pulled against the two hands holding his as he surged forward towards the warg.
"No Pip!" Merry held him in a hug now, "There's nothing you can do, you'll only upset yourself again."
"But Merry," Pippin pleaded, "I have to say goodbye. It's Umumum and she was so kind to me when I thought all the world was black and pain and nothing could save me and everyone hated me and the only thing left for me to do was die. And Merry you weren't there and I wanted you so much, so much it hurt, more than anything the orcs did to me and then Umumum came and she took care of me and she loved me and made me stay alive, for you Merry, see she did it for you too. Oh Merry, Merry, it's too sad for her to die, don't you see, it can't be true, Merry, make it better, please make it better."
"Oh Pip my love, I can't." Merry held his sobbing cousin, tears streaming down his own cheeks. "I would if I could, I'd give anything, but I don't know how to bring her back."
Haldir took a deep breath, in spite of his generally aloof demeanour; his heart was unnaturally moved by the depth of love and emotion shown by these small creatures. How could he have been so precipitous and shot the nestraden naneth, a title she truly deserved he now knew. He knelt beside Pippin so that he could speak to him face to face. "I am so sorry little one - Pippin, that I shot the war. Icicle. It was truly a mistake and I regret it deeply from the bottom of my heart. I will not ask your forgiveness as that would be too much to expect, but I beg your pardon at least, that you will not judge me evil."
"It wasn't your fault, Mr Haldir," Merry put in. "You thought you were doing the right thing."
"Not your fault," Pippin sniffed, "Poor, poor Umumum." He took Haldir's hand again and then as the elf went to stand up, the hobbits saw a tear run down the elf's cheek. Pippin held Haldir's face in his little hands and gently pressed his lips to the wet trace and kissed the sorrow-filled tear away. "You cried for Umumum and that's a good thing. She was very kind, she would forgive you, so I must too."
Then Pippin took Merry's hand and together they went to sit by Umumum's lifeless body and stroke the white fur once more, as they both said goodbye.
Haldir stood up now and took a deep breath. Without more words he left the chamber and went immediately to atrium of Galadriel's private retreat. To the elf's astonishment the guard that stood before the entrance at once opened the door with the words, "Haldir, The Lady has been expecting you."
****
TBC
Authors: Kookaburra & Llinos
Beta and additional material: MarigoldG
A/N: Llinos here. We now have the benefit of three people working on this story. In case anyone wonders how that works, in this chapter for example Kookaburra wrote the first three sections and then an outline of where she saw it going and then I took over and wrote all of the remaining sections roughly following the outline but taking things much further. In the meantime, Marigold, who is currently staying at my house, sits and throws plot bunnies at me, reads and comments as I go along and finally beta's the whole thing. In this instance she also wrote a bit, including the last line!
A/N: Kookaburra speaking- I have added material to chapter 26- specifically right after Aragorn and Melystra give Pip his bath- (It's about the socks) you can read it at Nindaiwe.com or on Starseekers site, or the Repost of MR. The links to both of them are on my author bio page.
Chapter 29: Watched
***
Aragorn's arms ached. First he had strained them helping to move the fallen talan, and now he was holding Frodo off of the bed while Silael carefully bound the small hobbit's wounds. Frodo's slight weight was not the reason for Aragorn's discomfort. Rather it was having to discipline his muscles to hold Frodo perfectly still, while carefully supporting his head and concentrating on not putting any pressure on his injured throat. The hobbit continued to breathe on his own, however, the horrid rattling noise was still present.
Silael finished off the bandage and tied it in place. He looked gravely up at Aragorn and nodded. As Aragorn started to lower Frodo back onto the bed, Silael stopped him with an outstretched hand.
"Turn him over onto his back, it will help with his breathing," the elf instructed.
Gingerly, Aragorn did as he was told although he did not miss Frodo's tiny wince of pain, and hitch of breath as his full weight was placed on his injured back. The ranger smoothed back the sweat and blood-soaked curls from Frodo's forehead.
"Peace, little one, I know you are in much pain but please...stay with us, Frodo." Aragorn sent a silent prayer to the Valar for the Ringbearer's recovery.
0-***-0
Boromir straightened his back from helping Deilen set a broken leg, and looked around for another task, only to find that thankfully there were none. Melystra was giving the concussed elf more pillows, and Legolas, Gimli, and Sam were seated on a padded bench out of the way of the healers. Stretching his aching muscles and relishing the pleasant pops as the tension in his back released, Boromir made his way over to his friends.
Gimli was massaging Sam's shoulder in a reassuring way, while the hobbit wept silently, head buried in his hands. Legolas looked up at Boromir's approach, and indicated the seat next to him. The Gondorian lowered himself down with a sigh of relief. He was bone-weary, and worried sick for Frodo and especially afraid for Pippin. How much could the littlest one endure after all?
All four looked up as Silael walked into the room. He spoke quietly for a brief moment in Sindarin to Deilen and Melystra, then made his way over to the bench to the waiting members of the Fellowship "You may go in and see your companion now...but," added the Healer as Sam stood hurriedly, ready to rush into the anteroom. "You must be very quiet. I will not lie to you. Young Frodo is not out of danger yet. It is no certainty that he will survive this night, and even more uncertain whether he will ever regain consciousness."
At these words, Sam thought his heart would burst. His poor Master Frodo, who he loved with all of his being might be dead before morning, or worse, if anything could be worse, he might never awaken. Sam thought back to Rivendell, when he and Mr. Bilbo would sit in all night vigils, straining to catch the slightest sign of life - a change in Frodo's laboured breathing, a twitch, or even the flicker of an eyelid. The most horrible few days in his entire life were repeating, and he could do nothing to stop it.
Legolas shrewdly eyed Silael. "There is yet something you are not telling us." He stated baldly.
"Yes, there is," replied Silael, "though it is not my place to tell you. It is Estel's wish that he be the one to speak further to you of Frodo's condition." The elder elf inclined his head in a small bow and took his leave of them.
Sam restrained himself from running and made for the door that separated him from his master, followed by the others. As he entered, he slowed even more, and walked silently, as only a hobbit can, over next to Mr. Strider at Frodo's bedside. The ranger reached out and pulled the distraught hobbit into a tight embrace. They stayed like that for several minutes, and Sam was surprised and frightened to hear Strider weeping as well. More arms encircled them as Legolas joined the embrace. Gimli and Boromir stood on the other side of Frodo's bed, heads bowed in respect to the fragile life that lay before them, struggling to survive.
At last Aragorn, Sam, and Legolas broke apart. Sam mopped his tear-streaked face with his handkerchief. Aragorn surreptitiously dried his eyes while Sam and the others pretended not to notice. While they had been able to work somewhat through their grief at the loss of Gandalf and then the horrors endured by poor Pippin, Aragorn had had to be their strength. This dire wounding of Frodo while in a place they had all considered safe beyond all question was the final blow to their leader and they found no shame in his tears, though they knew that Aragorn would not agree.
When Gimli was quite sure that Aragorn was under control, he asked in a gruff voice, "Master Silael told us you would tell us of the extent of young Frodo's ills. Will you do so now?"
Aragorn nodded, and, after taking a deep breath, began. "First of course, there is the danger that his windpipe could collapse. That injury is what is making the rattling noise when he breathes. But the greatest concern is that Frodo may have suffered permanent damage to his mind." He stopped, unable to continue though he had requested to Silael that he be the one to break this possibility to his companions, thinking it would be easier to hear from the lips of a friend rather than a healer.
Sam gaped up at Strider. "W-what do you mean by that, Mr. Strider? How..." Legolas put an arm around Sam's shoulders and gave the hobbit a comforting squeeze.
"I believe," said the elf, after an assenting nod from Aragorn, "that it is because Frodo was without air for a length of time. If unable to breathe for any significant time, part of the mind can suffocate, and so die. If Frodo lives, there is the possibility that he may not be able to remember, or communicate or move as well as he used to do before he was hurt."
"B-b-but," Sam stuttered, "Mr. Frodo will recognise me won't he? He'll know his Sam, surely?" Legolas hugged him tighter. "There are no guarantees, little one. We can only wait." Sam began to cry anew, silent tears that would not disturb his master, though he shook with the force of them.
0-***-0
Pippin snuggled into Merry's comforting embrace, drawing shaky breaths, exhausted from the telling of what had happened in the chamber.
Merry looked up as Galadriel rose to leave. "Is Pippin all right, Milady?" he asked, holding his Pip just a little tighter, but still carefully so as not to hurt him. "Is there anything I should do for him? I know it was all right, you being in his mind, because you know how, but was it all right I was there too? I've never done anything like that before."
Galadriel gave him a gentle smile. "Do not be troubled, dear Merry. It was not unhealthy for Peregrin to have you in his thoughts, you dwell there always, though not in quite the same way as you just experienced. However, this was extremely tiring for him. It would be good for him to have some water, and then rest. You may go to where the Ringbearer lies and tell your companions what truly happened."
"But what of poor Icicle? Is she really dead?" Merry had heard the story from Pippin but was not completely sure if it was a nightmare or reality. "Did an elf really kill her?"
Resting her alabaster hand on Merry's head, Galadriel said, "Yes, Meriadoc, I am afraid both are true. Haldir, the elf who brought you here and was tasked to protect you, came in just as the nestraden naneth was nuzzling Frodo. He mistakenly assumed that she was the one who attacked Frodo, and was about to kill him. He shot prematurely I am afraid. His action shall be addressed."
"Oh." said Merry quietly. "Poor Icicle! And poor Pip! But...Haldir." he trailed off and lowered his eyes.
"But what, Merry?" Galadriel said softly, placing one finger under his chin and lifting his gaze to meet hers. "Haldir must be brought to account for this deed."
"I don't think you should punish Haldir, Milady." Merry cast his eyes down shyly at his boldness in expressing his opinion. "He was doing his duty, protecting Frodo, I mean, and, well, if I had come upon Icicle and Frodo like that, and I had a bow, I might have done the same thing."
"You do not wish for retribution? To avenge the nestraden naneth that succoured your little cousin?" Galadriel asked.
"Oh, no Milady! I shouldn't want that! I mean it isn't really my place to decide whether Icicle should be avenged, it's Pip's, really, but I'm certain he would not want it either."
"Good Merry, I am glad you feel that way but not surprised" Galadriel placed her hand once more on Merry's curls and then lightly touched Pippin's cheek with the back of her other hand, "If periain were to desire vengeance they would lose much of themselves."
0-***-0
"It would be best if you all left now." Deilen had come quietly into Frodo's chamber. "There is little else that you can do now but wait and I will sit with the perian through the next several hours and Melystra will follow me."
"But I cannot leave Mr Frodo." Sam looked defiantly up at the elf. "I made a promise once and I'm not about to break it now."
"Did you little one?" Deilen smiled kindly. "To whom did you make the promise?"
"To Mr Gandalf." Sam looked at his hairy feet, too overcome with emotion to meet the elf's knowing eyes. "an' I realise he's not here an' all, but a promise is a promise."
"Then you should not break it." Deilen agreed. "You shall keep vigil with me. But I entreat the rest of the company to take what rest you may, I don't doubt you need it and I will call for you if there is need."
Aragorn stood wearily, realising that Deilen was right and that rest would be the most useful action he could take now. "I will return as soon as I am refreshed." He promised Sam. "Come Boromir, Legolas, Gimli, we should heed the wise counsel and take some repose."
As they left the chamber each patted Sam on the shoulder or hugged him in sympathy. The hobbit drew up a high backed chair as close to the big bed as he could manage then climbed on board and sat with his arms folded, his eyes firmly fixed on Frodo as if he could, by his very gaze, will him better.
0-***-0
"Merry?" A little voice tickled Merry's ear just as he was dozing off to sleep, "Where's Frodo?"
"He's in a chamber near here, my Pip." Merry was immediately wide-awake, not having meant to sleep at all. He realised that perhaps there was some residual effect from the drink Deilen had given to him. "I don't know how he is though."
"Merr-ry," Pippin used his time honoured Merry-cajoling tone. "Can we see him? Please! I don't want to close my eyes anymore unless I know Frodo is all right."
Merry was quietly rejoicing over Pippin's improvement. He was even remembering to use his 'Merry-will-do-anything-I-want' voice. At the same time Merry was deeply worried about Frodo too and desperately wanted to see him and poor Sam himself. "I'll peep outside and see if we can." He told Pippin. "You wait here and be good for a moment."
"No no no! Merry" Pippin cried in panic, "don't leave me! Please not alone, Merry!"
"It's all right, my Pip." Merry turned back at once and caught Pippin in his arms, feeling his cousin's heart racing as he held him close. "I won't leave you, promise, I won't leave you."
"Sorry, Merry." Pippin realised that his big cousin was not going far. "I got scared." Pippin looked up into Merry's face with large, frightened eyes, as if he expected to be punished or reprimanded.
"That's all right, my Pip." Merry did not want to make a fuss about it. "Can you walk do you think?"
"Can try." If Merry wanted him to walk, then he would, all the way to Harad if his beloved cousin asked.
Merry climbed down off the bed and then turned and held his arms out to Pippin. "Turn on your tummy Pip and slide down so I can catch you." So slowly that his movements were almost imperceptible, Pippin lay face down on the edge of the bed and let his feet dangle over the side. His socks fell off first and then he gradually followed them, Merry guiding his descent, finally catching him and sitting him down on the floor.
Merry sat next to Pippin and carefully put the big woollen stockings back on the shaven feet and waited while Pip got his breath back. Then he stood and held out both his hands. Pippin grasped on and was pulled gently to his feet, although he was still a little doubled over. Together, very slowly they walked to the chamber door.
"Ohh Merry, wait!" Pippin suddenly doubled over even more and pulled his hand away and tried to cross his legs at the same time. "I think I need the privy!" He whispered. "I don't know where, Merry!"
"Don't worry my Pip." Merry sat Pippin down where he was. "Wait there, you can still see me. Oh and try to hold on." He ran quickly to the cupboard where he had seen Deilen put the required item before.
"Quickly Merry!" Pippin nearly howled, using his hand now to assist his crossed legs. "I need to go!"
Merry ran back and placed the large chamber pot on the ground and stood Pippin up by hauling him under his armpits from behind. Just in time, between them, they got the nightshirt out of the way and Pippin heaved a sigh of great relief as he finally managed what he needed alone and unaided. Merry mentally marked this off as another recovery milestone.
Once everything, including hands, were cleaned and the pot stored away they started their odyssey again. Merry tentatively opened the door to outside and, seeing no one about, took Pippin's hands in his and walked him carefully along.
Pippin went very slowly and had to stop every so often. He still hurt over most of his body and he was very stiff, so Merry walked backwards holding the little hands up to give him the most support.
Merry took a sharp breath as a door in the corridor opened suddenly. He was not too sure that he should be walking the little invalid around and as he turned his head to see who was there Pippin sank down onto the floor again.
"Merry where are you going with Pippin?" Aragorn asked him rather puzzled that he should be attempting such a thing. Boromir, Gimli and Legolas were just behind him and Merry guessed that this must be the chamber where Frodo was.
"We wanted to see Frodo." Merry said simply and truthfully. "Pip couldn't go to sleep without, and I was worried too."
"Well, I suppose you better had." Aragorn shrugged to the others and walked forward to carefully lift Pippin up. "How are you feeling, Pippin? Have you walked all the way from the other room?"
"Yes, I have." Pippin looked nervously around him, a little overawed once more to have so many people looking at him at once.
"And." Merry added in a conspiratorial whisper for Aragorn's ears only, "he used the chamber pot!"
"He's doing well Merry That means his systems are recovering from the shock of his ordeal." Aragorn smiled down at Pippin, then with a frown turned back to Merry. "Was Pippin able to tell what took place?"
Merry looked at the ground and nodded.
Melystra overheard the exchange and glided over to the group. "The Lady informed me of what transpired. I will tell you, but it would not be helpful for the periain to hear it again. Why don't you take them into Frodo, and then we shall talk."
Aragorn nodded curtly, then looked back down at Pippin and smiled. "Well done Pip for walking so far, I'll carry you the rest of the way, you look weary now."
Legolas and Gimli smiled at Pippin and Boromir put his great hand on the small head and was rewarded with the best smile he had seen from the smallest hobbit since before Moria. The others then said goodbye and went on to the stairs, as Aragorn with Merry in tow, went back to the chamber. He nodded to Deilen. "Frodo has some more anxious visitors, may they stay a little while?" He set Pippin down to stand shakily with Merry's help and added in a lower tone. "It might be good for Sam to have some company too."
Deilen nodded and picked Pippin up once more. "If you promise not to wriggle or move you may sit at the very end of the bed. Can you do that?"
Pippin nodded to the elf and was set down on the far end of the bed. In the meantime Merry had gone to Sam and put his arm on his shoulder. "Sam? I'm sure he'll pull through."
"But he looks so ill Mr Merry." Sam's bottom lip trembled against more tears waiting to fall. "an' after all he's had already, what with Weathertop an' losin' Mr Gandalf an' then poor little Pippin an' all that happened."
"Come on Sam," Merry squeezed his shoulder. "We hobbits are made of sterner stuff than we look. After all, even Pip's getting better now and look at what he went through."
"I know." Sam sniffed. "He's looking a bit brighter, Mr Pippin I mean."
"Would you like to sit up on the bed too Sam?" Deilen asked kindly, realising that poor Sam had been planning to spend the night on the hard straight-backed chair and Frodo only just came halfway to the end of the bed so there was plenty of room.
Without waiting for an answer, as Sam seemed a little unsure as to whether it would be proper for him to sit on his master's bed, Deilen plucked him up under the arms and set him carefully down next to Pippin. The elf then looked quizzically at Merry who nodded and was lifted up to be placed on the other side of Pippin. The three fitted nicely along the foot of the bed where they could easily see Frodo's chest steadily rising and falling.
Pippin looked at Sam's tear-stained face and then back at Merry who nudged his little cousin encouragingly. Pippin up until now had not offered close physical contact to anyone besides Merry, but Sam looked so distraught and Frodo looked so ill. Pippin's eyes filled up with tears and he stretched his sore arms to reach around Sam's neck and buried his face in the little gardener's shoulder as he whispered, "Poor Sam, poor Frodo."
"Oh Pip," Sam breathed back. There was nothing else any of them could say so they just sat and held each others' hands and watched Frodo clinging tenaciously to life, even in his beleaguered state, the Ring of Power still lying on his labouring chest.
After what seemed like an eternity, Sam lifted his face from Pippin's curls and looked over at Merry. "Mr. Merry, sir?" he said quietly, so as not to disturb Pippin, who was now snoring softly.
Merry looked up from his musings. "Yes, Sam?"
Sam checked to make sure Pippin was really asleep, and asked, "Begging your pardon, but what did happen," Sam nodded his head in the direction of Pippin's original room, "In there?"
"Oh." Merry looked back down at the rich coverlet. "I-it was Gollum." At Sam's wide-eyed look of disbelief, Merry nodded as if to back up his story and continued. "Pippin said Gollum came in and attacked Frodo, then Icicle attacked Gollum, and drove him off right before Haldir came in, and saw Icicle..."
"Covered in blood next to Mr. Frodo." Sam finished. "If I ever have the chance to get my hands on that stinker I'll..." he growled, but left the rest unsaid, as he did not think that what he really wanted to do to the monster that attacked Frodo was fit for young Mr Pippin's ears, him being a gentlehobbit and all.
0-****-0
Aragorn, Gimli and Boromir were bone weary, it had been a long day and, although only half spent, they had worked hard on the rescue and the added trauma had made them more tired than mere labour. Legolas was still alert, but even his elven senses were weary and in need of recuperation. He favoured the thought of a reviving walk through the Golden Wood.
Haldir awaited the four as they came down from the healing chamber. The elf had been too contrite and overcome with guilt to visit the hobbit himself. Galadriel had informed him of Icicle's confirmed innocence and that in fact she was most probably Frodo's saviour and the impetuous elf was mortified with shame. "How fares the perian?" He asked Aragorn.
"Which one," The ranger returned in surprise. "Pippin or Frodo, Merry or Sam? They are each of them suffering in some way."
Haldir glanced at the forest floor in embarrassment, "The littlest one - I deeply regret having killed his warg. I mean the nestraden naneth." He added quickly, "and the Ringbearer how fares he?"
"Pippin is mostly upset about Frodo, who is still breathing at least." Aragorn explained. "I don't believe the loss of Icicle has truly sunk in yet. I fear it will be hard for Pippin when it does."
"Is there something," Haldir paused for a deep breath, "anything, I can do? Anything that will repair the damage I have caused with my impetuous behaviour?" "You cannot be blamed for acting as you did." Legolas said gently, although the eyes of the other three told Haldir a different story. "What is done may not be undone." "In the meantime," Aragorn yawned involuntarily, "you could perform a small service by keeping watch over the hobbits. They are in Frodo's chamber and Pippin probably should not stay there all night. He needs to be persuaded back to his own bed. Deilen is there and will help, but he cannot leave Frodo, and Merry cannot carry the little one easily." "I will go at once," Haldir confirmed, "although I fear the periain may not wish to see me after what has happened."
0-****-0
Frodo drew another breath and Sam's almost stopped as he waited for the next. Each time Frodo's chest rose and fell the little gardener would tense, as if breathing in time with his master would help him to draw more air. With every gasp Pippin, feeling the tension in Sam, would squeeze his arm and Merry in turn kept up a soothing stroking on Pippin's hair.
Suddenly Frodo's air intake changed and the three hobbits froze in unison. Frodo's nose twitched slightly and he licked at his lips. Sam gasped and leaned forward, "Mr Frodo, Mr Frodo!" Frodo's eyes opened and he blinked them shut again against the light. "Mr Frodo?" Sam called again.
Merry meanwhile called for the healer elf. "Mr Deilen, Sir, come quickly! We think Frodo is waking!"
Deilen rushed to the chamber from a side room to find Frodo blinking owlishly at the three hobbits as Sam held one of his hands and Merry the other while Pippin had hold of Frodo's foot.
The breathing was still painful and laboured and the bigger test would be if Frodo could recognise his cousins, friends and surroundings. "Mr Frodo!" Sam whispered urgently again, "It's me your Sam, can you remember anything?"
"Steady, Samwise," Deilen counselled. "Do not rush him."
Frodo looked at Sam as if not really seeing him to begin with but gradually the clouds moved from his delicate features and he mouthed his name, "Sam." No sound came but the lip movements were clearly discernable.
Sam looked up at Deilen with great joy written on his face, "He knows me Mr Deilen, Sir! Mr Frodo recognised me."
Frodo then became aware of Merry on his other side and mouthed to him, his brow drawn tight in query, "Pip?"
"He's all right Frodo," Merry confirmed and moved behind his smaller cousin so that he could lift him up into Frodo's field of vision, "He's right here, see."
Frodo had moved his head slightly so that he could see Pippin and the tiny movement had taken much out of him. He closed his eyes once more and settled back down to his painful breathing.
Deilen touched Frodo's forehead and then felt his heartbeat. "His fever is low and he recognised all in the chamber, a good sign, my friends." The elf smiled at the three hobbits, "I think your cousin will recover."
At that moment Haldir came to the chamber. "Deilen, I have come to offer my services. Estel said you may think it time for the little one, Pippin, to go back to his own chamber and that I should bear him there."
"That would be wise indeed." Deilen turned to Pippin who was still holding Frodo's foot. "Come Pippin, it is time for you to rest now. You have seen Frodo awake so you may sleep in comfort now. Haldir will carry you to your own chamber."
"Can I stay with Frodo?" Pippin asked.
"I think it would be better for you both if you slept in your own beds tonight." Deilen told him kindly. "Frodo needs to rest quietly and so do you."
"Can Merry come with me?" Pippin asked with a slight note of panic in his voice. "I don't want to go without."
"Of course I'll come with you my Pip," Merry chimed in. "I told you I wouldn't leave you and I won't."
"Very well," Haldir bent to lift Pippin up, but Deilen stayed his hand while Pippin stroked Frodo's foot goodbye and whispered his 'good night' to his cousin. Then the healer elf nodded for Haldir to continue. He picked the hobbit up under his arms and laid him over his shoulder. Merry frowned a bit as Aragorn usually carried Pippin in his arms, but he let it pass as his cousin had not complained and jumped down from the bed after kissing Frodo lightly on the forehead and giving Sam a hug.
"Bye Sam," Pippin called quietly so as not to disturb the now sleeping Frodo. "See you tomorrow."
"Night-night, Mr Pippin, Mr Merry," Sam answered sotto voce, "Sleep well."
Haldir made the way along the corridor to Pippin's chamber but when they had nearly reached the room Merry, who did not like Pippin being carried like a potato sack, pulled at Haldir's tunic. "I think you should put Pip down now and I'll help him to walk. Aragorn says it's good for him to walk."
Haldir sighed and set the wobbly hobbit on his feet and took hold of his hand instead. Merry held Pippin's other hand and very slowly he walked along into his own chamber. As they passed the first entrance, the door to the inner room, where Icicle's body lay covered by the sheet, had been left open inadvertently and as Pippin shuffled by he caught sight the white fur of his beloved Umumum. Giving a little gasp of horror and sadness, Pippin pulled against the two hands holding his as he surged forward towards the warg.
"No Pip!" Merry held him in a hug now, "There's nothing you can do, you'll only upset yourself again."
"But Merry," Pippin pleaded, "I have to say goodbye. It's Umumum and she was so kind to me when I thought all the world was black and pain and nothing could save me and everyone hated me and the only thing left for me to do was die. And Merry you weren't there and I wanted you so much, so much it hurt, more than anything the orcs did to me and then Umumum came and she took care of me and she loved me and made me stay alive, for you Merry, see she did it for you too. Oh Merry, Merry, it's too sad for her to die, don't you see, it can't be true, Merry, make it better, please make it better."
"Oh Pip my love, I can't." Merry held his sobbing cousin, tears streaming down his own cheeks. "I would if I could, I'd give anything, but I don't know how to bring her back."
Haldir took a deep breath, in spite of his generally aloof demeanour; his heart was unnaturally moved by the depth of love and emotion shown by these small creatures. How could he have been so precipitous and shot the nestraden naneth, a title she truly deserved he now knew. He knelt beside Pippin so that he could speak to him face to face. "I am so sorry little one - Pippin, that I shot the war. Icicle. It was truly a mistake and I regret it deeply from the bottom of my heart. I will not ask your forgiveness as that would be too much to expect, but I beg your pardon at least, that you will not judge me evil."
"It wasn't your fault, Mr Haldir," Merry put in. "You thought you were doing the right thing."
"Not your fault," Pippin sniffed, "Poor, poor Umumum." He took Haldir's hand again and then as the elf went to stand up, the hobbits saw a tear run down the elf's cheek. Pippin held Haldir's face in his little hands and gently pressed his lips to the wet trace and kissed the sorrow-filled tear away. "You cried for Umumum and that's a good thing. She was very kind, she would forgive you, so I must too."
Then Pippin took Merry's hand and together they went to sit by Umumum's lifeless body and stroke the white fur once more, as they both said goodbye.
Haldir stood up now and took a deep breath. Without more words he left the chamber and went immediately to atrium of Galadriel's private retreat. To the elf's astonishment the guard that stood before the entrance at once opened the door with the words, "Haldir, The Lady has been expecting you."
****
TBC