"Have ya heard?" said Gimli as he came rushing into the stables. "Theoden
has said we are t....." oh sorry, didn't mean to interrupt." He said as he
turned his gaze from Caitlin and Legolas and their embrace.
Caitlin wiped some lingering tears from her eye. "Quite alright Gimli, your presence brings nothing but smiles." She said as she and Legolas turned to him.
Gimli turned. A bright smile across his face. He opened his mouth to speak but Caitlin continued her words, "great smiles..... And mischief." She said with a little laugh.
Gimli scowled for a moment then smiled again. "Theoden has said, we leave before nightfall, so we have some time." He said.
"How long until nightfall?" asked Caitlin
"Oh, perhaps three hours, not to much time, but enough to maybe get in some training lass." He said as he eagerly lifted his ax.
"Oh, Gimli, I think I should get a bath, but their will be time enough on the road to Helms deep for training my friend." She said as she release Legolas and passed Gimli to exit the stables.
Gimli lowered his ax with disappointment. "What is it with that girl and baths, I think she will drown herself one of these days." He said as Legolas passed him to follow Caitlin. Gimli reached out his hand and took Legolas by the arm. "Lad I am her friend, and I know ya are plenty old enough to make yer own decisions an evrthin, but boy, if that girl suffers in any way due to this thing ya all got goin, there will be no elvish trick to save ya from my wrath." He said. With a stern voice.
Legolas was startled by Gimli's sudden seriousness but managed to speak non- the less. "There are few things we have seemed to agree upon master dwarve, but we have always had a common affection for her, and should I ever cause her harm, I would expect nothing less of you." He said with a smile.
Gimli began to release him but then pulled him close again. "And another thing, I would appreciate it if when we are ridden these here animals if, maybe you could slouch a little," he said.
Legolas was confused, thinking he was being serious still. As Gimli continued. "Ya just are makin me look bad, I mean. On the ground I am fine bein short and all but I already look like a fool on these things and I just think you could help if you didn't look SO tall." He said
Legolas began to laugh.
Gimli began to laugh as well. "Your to serious, you should loosen up more." He said as he released Legolas.
"Thank you." He said as they both headed in their own directions.
Caitlin was so happy that she could finally get all this dirt off of herself.
Entering the hall, their were bustling people, all going back and forth with bundles of cloth and supplies, Eowyn was directing some of the workers, yelling out orders as to where certain things should go.
Caitlin noticed that she did not carry her sword, she must have packed it up after encountering Aragorn, but for some reason Caitlin felt she should wear it, she should show her willingness to defend her people.
"You do not wear your sword." Said Caitlin as she approached.
"No," she said as she continued to work. "Women of this country do not typically carry weapons as the men do."
"This is a time of war, a time when useless customs should be discarded so that the heart may be followed." Caitlin said as she placed an affectionate hand on her own sword. Seeing Eowyn reminded Caitlin of how proud she was to be able to defend herself, Caitlin felt it was the role of neither man nor woman to defend themselves and that which they love but the right of every being. Defining it as a man or woman's job seemed to serve no purpose other than reducing the amount of warrior that were capable of fighting.
Eowyn smiled, "you must be blessed with the gift of sight, for you see through to my desires," she said as she folded some cloth to place it in a pack.
"Foresight is not required to know your character, only good observation skills." She said. With a smile.
"Eowyn stopped to face her. "You and I are not so different," she said. "At least in our passion to become as strong and wise as we can." She said.
"I think it is through this similarity that we may understand each others hardships. In my home, it is becoming more widely accepted to be strong, wise, capable and a feminine woman, but there are still stereotypes that are hard to overcome." Caitlin drew her sword, presenting the hilt to Eowyn. "Your country has an opportunity to examine itself now that war threatens to tear it apart," she said as Eowyn took the blade. "It is my hope that you will take a role that will reshape the way women are perceived in this country. You are given a gift of influence, one that will not crush your spirit should you not let it, I know this is your fear." She said as Eowyn took the blade and let a few strokes loose in the air. Testing its agility in her nimble, skilled fingers.
She swung the sword about with greater and greater speed, before stopping abruptly and standing to face her once more.
"You mean use my royal status as a delegate for women's rights." She said still holding the sword in her hand.
"Even if it is only through example," she said as Eowyn handed her the sword once more. Caitlin sheathed it.
"It is a beautiful weapon, its weight and make would suggest it was intended for a woman, though the length and design is one I have never seen, it seems to long for its hilt yet it is perfectly balanced," she said
"It is named Gomaithis, sword of light, forged for the Lady Galadriel, another wise and powerful woman who rules the elven city of Lothlorien." She said.
Eowyn reached into the chest and pulled out her own sword then reached again and came out with a belt and sheath.
"I shall wear my weapon, it brings joy to my heart, that is my principal reason, but you have brought up one that I hadn't thought of, so I also wear this blade for my fellow women, who would themselves take up arms and defend their country were they not suppressed by the limitations of culture and current custom." She said as she placed a friendly hand on Caitlin's shoulder. "I can see that your presence shall breath life into us all once more." She said.
The moment was a silent respect and understanding between these two extraordinary women.
Eowyn leaned in whispering in her ear, "He is a handsome and brave warrior, I am happy for you." She said.
Caitlin was confused, then Eowyn motioned with her eyes to the front door where Legolas leaned against a post, waiting for her. "You are a strange woman from a strange land, the Elven race seems more your kin than that of men, though had I met you without such circumstance I would have sworn you my sister." She said with a smile.
"And had I met you in my home, I believe I would come to the same conclusion my friend." Said Caitlin with a warm affection
"The bathhouse is just around the corner their," she said. "I will see you when we depart." She said as she released Caitlin.
"H-how did you know?" she said. "About the bath."
"I didn't, I was hoping that was were you wanted to go." She said with a smile. "You do have a pungent odder."
Caitlin motioned to Legolas and then headed to the bath. Legolas came up beside her.
Caitlin smiled taking his hand in her own. "You know you seem to have become my shadow." She said.
"Yes, that is true." He said. " A very enjoyable role." He said as he followed her.
They reached the bathhouse, its steamy air flooding them as they entered. Caitlin walked in, seeing several large wooden tubs with steaming water in them. The whole room was empty of people, all preparing for their departure; she turned but found the door closed and Legolas not inside.
She opened the door and found him standing outside. "Why are you standing outside of the room?" she asked.
"Well I thought you might want some privacy." He said.
A scowl came over her face, "oh don't be silly." She said with great annoyance, yanking him inside. "How do you expect me to take my hair down, or even get in one of these things, they are huge, I could drown....or..." she was trying very hard to think of legitimate reasons he should stay, "there could be a problem with the water, or a towel disaster or someth......."
He moved his whole body to hers, pulling her close to him and crashing his lips onto her own. He wrapped his arms around her, moving his hand through her hair, closing any gap between them, their was a wild abandonment of all inhibition in the passion of their kiss, compulsively engulfed in the others scent, the feel of their hair, the pale, softness of the skin. No army, no war was strong enough to subdue their passion for one another.
His grasp of her released, her eyes closed, and her breathing heavy. Their faces remained close, touching each others foreheads, "if you wanted me to stay, all you had to do was ask." He said his voice soft, a whisper, as his hand came up to touch her mangled hair.
"Will you stay." She said kissing him again, "I want you to stay." She whispered, the sound of the steam rising in the background. The feeling of Legolas, holding her close.
"Join me in the bath?" she said quietly again. Her arms wrapped around him.
"Yes please." He said softly as they both headed to the large wooden tub.
"Where is Legolas, I must speak with him." Said Aragorn as he passed Gimli.
"I believe he is with Caitlin," said Gimli.
"So where is she?" he asked.
"Um, I think she said she was going to take a bath." He said.
"Ok." Aragorn headed up the stair, stopped and then returned to Gimli's side.
"What?" he asked again. Not sure he had heard his companion right.
"I said she is taking a bath." He said again.
Aragorn stood in thought on Gimlis words, he knew that Legolas had romantic interest in Caitlin, it was apparent, but he hadn't observed anything beyond that. Aragorn knew he was swayed by his own love for Arwen, and that the concern he had for his two friends was caused by the heartache he was enduring with his love for her, how difficult love of an immortal was. His hand came up, grazing the Evenstar he wore around his neck.
"Don't worry, I have given the lad a stern talking to." Said Gimli, who was unaware of what Aragorn was thinking.
"That is not my concern Gimli, I have known Legolas for many years, and I have all confidence that he would do all in his power to preserve them both from pain." His eyes wondered to the sky as he thought of Arwen and the journey she must take. "But some pain is unavoidable, some pain, you bring upon yourself and there is no healing it." he said.
"....and you, why have you not spent much time around other races?" she asked him as he took the sponge and ran it over her back.
"Elves tend to keep to themselves, Estel...I mean Aragorn has been the only mortal I have spent a significant amount of time around, and so much of him is so elvish already that this journey has given me a new perspective on mortals." He said
"So, this is also your first true encounter with death?" she asked.
"Elves may be killed, by metal, fire or if they become weary with life and choose to end it." he said. "But elves who choose to stay away from battle will never have to face death as mortals do, and to my recollection, there have never been records of an elf growing weary of life." He said.
"Do you find it different, being surrounded by mortals, being the only immortal?" she asked.
"Yes. Mortals are dying all the time, every moment; every breath brings them closer to death. In my youth I thought mortals to be a lesser race, but now, as I watch them live and breath, as I watch them with such passion for life, I feel they have been blessed with mortality. It is not a curse, it is a constant reminder that life is precious and should be treasured and fought for, that it must be seized. Elves do not have expressions like, 'seize the day', for we have no need, but there is something almost divine about capturing a moment in time and realizing its frailty and impermanence. For elves, even when we die, our spirits have a choice of either returning to middle earth to be reborn, or wait in a place of rest until this world lives though all its days." He said.
"So elves are connected to Middle earth, even in death? They truly don't ever die"
"Yes, and even though most will travel to Valinor, to the Valor, some will return, and some will feel the connection so great to this soil that they will never return the call of the sea. And though my kin may call those who choose to remain 'dark elves' I would admire them for their courage and love of middle earth."
"What is Valinor? Why have you chosen to stay behind?" she said.
Legolas smiled, "what is with all these questions, do you think we will run out of time to discuss such things?" he said playfully.
Caitlin smiled reaching over and taking another hand full of oils. She had been so pleased that Rohan had shampoo and conditioner, well not that they called it shampoo and conditioner, but the equivalent to such. They smelled sweet like pears.
Legolas had let his hair down, allowing Caitlin to wash it for him, and he had returned the favor, undoing her long blonde hair and rubbing the sweet cleaner through her hair.
"You have such beautiful hair, I have never seen such color." He said as he lifted it to the side.
Caitlin thought she should tell him it was from a box, but she chose to let him just enjoy it.
"Thank you." She said reaching back and playing with his hair, "your going to have to do my hair up again when it drys," she said as she twisted her finger through his hair.
"It will be my pleasure." He said. As he rubbed the sponge over her back again.
"Did I not notice this mark before?" he said as he ran his hand over her birthmark.
"I don't think so." She responded. "It is called a strawberry, it once was red when I was born, but now its pigment is just like the rest of the skin. I am surprised you found it, the only thing that really distinguishes it from the rest of my skin is the fact that it is so sensitive and soft." She said.
He ran a finger over the small quarter sized circular birthmark, " it is soft, like the texture of your lips." He said.
Caitlin turned around in the bath to face him. "Legolas, do you miss your home, of Mirkwood?" she asked.
"It has been ninety three days, thirteen hours since I saw the Mirkwood city as my horse carried me away, I watched it dip into the horizon, getting smaller and smaller, until its image was gone." He said, his gaze not particular at anything.
"Do you miss your home?" asked Legolas.
Caitlin searched his eyes, these deep pools of light that had more effect on her than any thing or anyone she had ever known. "I miss my home very much, sometimes I feel the pain so great that I will die from it, my desire to be home hurts my chest and I cannot breath." Legolas held her close, and she rested her head against his chest, as the steam rose around them. "Then I am with you...I am not cold when I am with you, I am alright. Like I am back where I belong, I can see, that through this darkness, through this war, there is light, and hope. It feels like home, I am home." She said. "Whenever I see your face, I am home."
Legolas held her, his arms wrapping her in a warm embrace. Her words touched his heart and he knew that he would love her for all of his days. He was in love with a mortal, under the slowly awakening doom of this world, he understood Aragorns torcher. Legolas was not blind to the impossibility of their love, to the hardships they would have to accept along with their growing affection. He knew a day would come that a decision would have to be made.
"We should get going, it is almost time to leave," she said. They had been soaking in the bath for nearly an hour and a half, enjoying the water and having each other their.
"Alright," he said. Legolas knew that the day he dreaded would come, but it was not today, and more pressing matters presented themselves before that time should be considered an issue.
Caitlin knew that Eowyn was a great woman, but she was also smart in the ways of hospitality, taking Caitlin's cloths to wash, leaving Caitlin with a deep blue dress not so unlike her own. Its long while sleeved hung from her elbows, adding a touch of femininity while still allowing full range of movement. Caitlin wrapped her belt about her waist. Her long hair was still damp but not soaking, and she twisted it up, to put it loosely about her head. She turned around seeing Legolas standing there, his gaze fixed on her.
"You are such a true woman." He said as he gazed at her, the dress fitting her form well, she looked comfortable I a dress, like she belonged in a dress, but she looked the same when she wore gear to fight and travel.
They both went out into the courtyard, finding that everyone was finishing getting ready. They would set out in ten minutes.
Caitlin and Legolas rushed to the stables. Caitlin quickly placed the saddle on Asufeld, which already had all of her things loaded on it. She quickly took the reigns and jumped on Asufeld, finding Legolas right behind her.
She walked him out of the stall; meeting glances as she paced the people still readying their horses.
"We ride," said Hama as his company set out, their journey slow, Caitlin and Legolas made their way to the front where they found Aragorn and Theoden leading the people.
"My friend, you look like a girl." Said Aragorn with a smirk on his face.
"I am a girl." She said
"So it would seem." He responded.
"What pace should we make, if our goal is to make it to Helms Deep within three days." Said Caitlin.
"A slow pace, we could take into account many possible obstacles at that pace my lady." Said Theoden. "But what would lead me to make such a pace."
"Was that not the pace you were thinking would be appropriate my lord?" she said.
"Yes, that is exactly what I thought we would do." He said.
Aragorn laughed quietly. "As I have told you king Theoden, it would serve you well to listen to my companion, she is full of surprises." He said.
"Why does she ride with those who lead," said Hama as he rode next to Theoden.
The smile was wiped from Caitlin's face upon his words. Aragorn looked at him with a stern eye. "Because she DOES lead." He said. "I would follow her into battle against the worst of enemies." He said.
Caitlin remained quiet as he spoke. Knowing that he most likely WOULD follow her into battle. And against an enemy worse than any this world had ever seen.
Her hands were sweaty as she gripped Asufelds reigns. She searched Hamas face as she rode, she knew that he was only trying to protect his people, he was also influenced by the customs of his country, and to him, Caitlin was a rarity. It was almost unheard of for a woman to have so much power in Rohan.
But as she rode beside these honorable and brave people, she felt she would show her worth in the battles to come, and whether they came to respect her or not, she still had a mission to complete.
They rode all the rest of that day, with the majority of the villagers on foot.
They stopped for the night, before the sun had passed below the horizon, but with the dusk showing itself.
Caitlin noticed the division of the campfires as she looked out among the many flames that lit the surrounding areas. The few Soldiers their were camped with fellow soldiers. Villagers camped with their families and neighbors, sharing a fire. King Theoden and the captains of his army and his trusted advisors camped together, with Aragorn, Gimli, Legolas, and Caitlin joining them. Discussing the plan of their root to Helms Deep.
Caitlin sat at the fire, Gimli to her right, and Legolas to her left; Theoden sat across from her with Hama and another advisor.
Caitlin looked across the plains. A bit past the next camp over she saw, Aragorn, sitting next to a slope, Eowyn standing above her, holding a bowl of soup. A grin came over Caitlin's face as she remembered this encounter, how horrible the soup was and how Eowyn would discover Aragorns true age, and his Dunadain heritage.
"What are ya doin there?" said Gimli, snapping her back to the project she she was doing.
Asufelds saddle rest in her hands, and using her dagger was re-stuffing the saddle.
"Oh, this, I find this saddle to remove me to much from Asufeld, I am removing some of the stuffing and the front and back bars, so I may more easily feel the horse beneath me, and he may understand my commands without my having to tell them to him." She said with a smile.
"Hah," said Hama with a dismissive laugh. "Foolish girl." He said.
"The magic of the elves is reserved for them alone, let them keep their trickery on their own steeds." He said. As he took a sip of the hot drink he held in his hand.
"Why dismiss it so quickly, have you ever tried it?" said Caitlin.
"His mind is to full of his own thoughts." Said Legolas. "To communicate with a horse you must first hear the horse speak, and to do that your mind must be open and quiet. I do not dought your ability to achieve such communication Hama, but not until you grow a little more will it be beyond your grasp." Said Legolas.
"As I would hope it remains." Said Hama.
"If you will excuse me," said Caitlin as she put down the saddle. She noticed that Eowyn had left Aragorn and she went over to visit with him. Walking over and sitting by his side.
"You know she fancies you." Said Caitlin as he and Aragorn stared out at the horizon.
"Yes." He said. "I can see that." he said as his hand wandered up to caress the Evenstar.
"You feel her. And she feels you, through space, across mountains, and plains, through trees and walls, your hearts will remain ever connected." She said
Aragorn turned his head to look at her. "The dream has ended for us, for Arwen and Myself. Though you are right, I will never be rid of her in my heart, I feel her emotions, when she is sad, when she is happy, I feel the brush of her hair on my skin, her lips on mine." Caitlin turned to face him. "Torcher is not always of the body, or of the mind, and this is the worst kind, because you cause it for yourself, and therefore it lingers, like a poison, eating away at you. The happiest and most painful thing in life, is love." He said.
"There is a hidden purpose in your words Lord Aragorn, I know you well enough to see when you wish to say something, you can tell me, you don't have to sneak around the issue." She said with a smile.
Aragorn took a deep breath in. "you are right hodoer," he said. Standing up, "will you walk with me." He asked.
Caitlin stood, as she and Aragorn walked together down the slope away from the camp, as the sun darkened in the sky.
They walked for several minutes without speaking, the wind blowing by them.
"Caitlin, I have no family, no brothers, no parents. But I have friends that are like family, friends such as you. I would never want you to be hurt, so, as a good friend I tell you to be careful, give your heart to the pursuit of a love that will blossom, not dwindle with hardship as mine does." He said as they walked along the plains.
It was dark now, very dark, "I thank you for your love, only a friend who truly loved me would be truthful enough to bring up such concerns." She said.
They continued to walk, up now, toward the fires, as it was getting rather cold.
"Eowyn looks as though she wishes to speak to you." Said Aragorn as they entered the encampment.
Eowyn was sitting across the plain, the flickering fire lighting her face. She was peering at them with an expression that clearly called to caitlin.
"I have enjoyed out conversation," said caitlin, giving him a hug. "sleep well my friend."
She said as they parted. "and you as well." He said.
Caitlin followed the light from the flame that surrounded the camp Eowyn was at.
"I hope I didn't interrupt your conversation." Said Eowyn as caitlin approached.
"no we were finished," she said. As she sat next to Eowyn.
" I am worried." Said Eowyn. "that Edoras will no longer stand when we return."
Caitlin was taken aback, realizing that all these people believed they were heading for safety, that Helms Deep would be their refuge, and Edoras would be attacked, possibly destroyed.
"Edoras shall stand tall when you return." She said.
Eowyn smiled. And caitlin knew that was her main concern. "you love Aragorn," said caitlin.
Eowyns face lifted. " yes," she said. "is their anything you can tell me," she asked.
Eowyns eyes were pleading, yeurning to learn of her own feelings, and his.
"I cannot tell you the answers, but I can tell you that love will be a part of your life, for all of your life." She said, thinking of the comfort and true love Eowyn would find in Faramir.
Eowyn looked at the ground, finding the comfort in her words. Then she looked up again and smiled at caitlin. "thank you." She said. as she looked at caitlin, suddenly her eyes became wide and she stood abruptly, looking past caitlins form. "w-what it is." Said caitlin as she turned to see Gimli running at her, ax in hand, held over his head.
Caitlindrew her sword and a great smile came over her face as Gimli came closer and closer. She yelled and ran forward toward him, his battle cry echoing through the land.
At the last moment, just before impact, caitlin slid down onto her back and lifted her legs, hurling Gimli up over her head.
Gimli flew, his body landing hard on the ground; he spun around quickly getting to his feet. Caitlin did the same, jumping to her feet, as Gimli encircled her.
"you've been chattin all night," he said in a rough voice as his ax spun around through his hands. "I say it is time to test some skills," he said as he attacked.
"AAAAYYAAHH." Screamed caitlin as he came forth and struck from the side. She moved forward lifting her sword and moving behind Gimli. As the dwarve ended his strike, caitlin thought for certain she had him, her sword ready to attack from behind, but Gimli swung his ax to the other hand, moving it to the back and simultaneously bending his knees and lowering himself even further to the ground and as caitlin tried to duck to avoid his ax which was coming at her, she lost her footing over Gimlis lowered body. She began to fall and Gimli, feeling this lifted his arms and body to the sky, picking her up and holding her above his head. "AND WHAT ARE YA GOING TO DO NOW." He said. But through the sentence caitlin flipped her weight over, doing a summersault and landing on her feet, her sword aimed directly at his chest.
They both stood their, her hair in disarray as it had fallen from the bun she had put it in.
"Ah, well....then.... I suppose, that would.....be one option." He said as he saw his defeat.
Caitlin smiled, as they both lowered their weapons. Gimli patted her on the back, "so I see ya got yourself a dress," he said. "I think you will be better served with the elven cloths, but this is nice for now." He said.
Caitlin looked at Eowyn, who took her cloths out of a sack. "I think I will change into my former traveling gear in the morning." Said caitlin as she took the cloths from eowyn and looked at Gimli.
"ah, a good thing, I don't think you will be doin much of anything in that dress." He said. "not the way we travel."
"the hour grows late, lass." He continued. "we should be off to bed."
"so what was that whole attack thing supposed to be, a bed time story. Why don't we train now?" She said
"ah, I was just jokin around with ya, I actually have a message from the elf. He wishes to speak with ya." Said Gimli as they walked back toward their fire.
"I seem to be popular tonight, and Gimli, I know you care for Legolas enough to at least call him by name." Said caitlin.
Gimli lowered his gaze and tried to deny his growing friendship with legolas. "oh, I care nothing for the lad, I only tolerate him because you care for him with such affection." He said.
"I can see our fire, I wonder what he wants." Said caitlin under her breath as they came upon the camp.
Ok I had no idea how to end this chapter, and it was getting so long, so I will just continue this chapter in the next chapter. I know that every chapter seems to be so very serious, but the scene is very tense right now, in further chapters I will be adding in more between Eowyn and Caitlin, as well as with all the characters. There are also going to be some up and coming twists in the plot, where things aren't the way they were in the movies. More perplexing dreams. A deepening romance will be continued with Legolas and Caitlin. And much more.
P.s. I have also tried to take into consideration all the reviews, so I will try and keep the story consistent in those terms. Aiko Alima
Caitlin wiped some lingering tears from her eye. "Quite alright Gimli, your presence brings nothing but smiles." She said as she and Legolas turned to him.
Gimli turned. A bright smile across his face. He opened his mouth to speak but Caitlin continued her words, "great smiles..... And mischief." She said with a little laugh.
Gimli scowled for a moment then smiled again. "Theoden has said, we leave before nightfall, so we have some time." He said.
"How long until nightfall?" asked Caitlin
"Oh, perhaps three hours, not to much time, but enough to maybe get in some training lass." He said as he eagerly lifted his ax.
"Oh, Gimli, I think I should get a bath, but their will be time enough on the road to Helms deep for training my friend." She said as she release Legolas and passed Gimli to exit the stables.
Gimli lowered his ax with disappointment. "What is it with that girl and baths, I think she will drown herself one of these days." He said as Legolas passed him to follow Caitlin. Gimli reached out his hand and took Legolas by the arm. "Lad I am her friend, and I know ya are plenty old enough to make yer own decisions an evrthin, but boy, if that girl suffers in any way due to this thing ya all got goin, there will be no elvish trick to save ya from my wrath." He said. With a stern voice.
Legolas was startled by Gimli's sudden seriousness but managed to speak non- the less. "There are few things we have seemed to agree upon master dwarve, but we have always had a common affection for her, and should I ever cause her harm, I would expect nothing less of you." He said with a smile.
Gimli began to release him but then pulled him close again. "And another thing, I would appreciate it if when we are ridden these here animals if, maybe you could slouch a little," he said.
Legolas was confused, thinking he was being serious still. As Gimli continued. "Ya just are makin me look bad, I mean. On the ground I am fine bein short and all but I already look like a fool on these things and I just think you could help if you didn't look SO tall." He said
Legolas began to laugh.
Gimli began to laugh as well. "Your to serious, you should loosen up more." He said as he released Legolas.
"Thank you." He said as they both headed in their own directions.
Caitlin was so happy that she could finally get all this dirt off of herself.
Entering the hall, their were bustling people, all going back and forth with bundles of cloth and supplies, Eowyn was directing some of the workers, yelling out orders as to where certain things should go.
Caitlin noticed that she did not carry her sword, she must have packed it up after encountering Aragorn, but for some reason Caitlin felt she should wear it, she should show her willingness to defend her people.
"You do not wear your sword." Said Caitlin as she approached.
"No," she said as she continued to work. "Women of this country do not typically carry weapons as the men do."
"This is a time of war, a time when useless customs should be discarded so that the heart may be followed." Caitlin said as she placed an affectionate hand on her own sword. Seeing Eowyn reminded Caitlin of how proud she was to be able to defend herself, Caitlin felt it was the role of neither man nor woman to defend themselves and that which they love but the right of every being. Defining it as a man or woman's job seemed to serve no purpose other than reducing the amount of warrior that were capable of fighting.
Eowyn smiled, "you must be blessed with the gift of sight, for you see through to my desires," she said as she folded some cloth to place it in a pack.
"Foresight is not required to know your character, only good observation skills." She said. With a smile.
"Eowyn stopped to face her. "You and I are not so different," she said. "At least in our passion to become as strong and wise as we can." She said.
"I think it is through this similarity that we may understand each others hardships. In my home, it is becoming more widely accepted to be strong, wise, capable and a feminine woman, but there are still stereotypes that are hard to overcome." Caitlin drew her sword, presenting the hilt to Eowyn. "Your country has an opportunity to examine itself now that war threatens to tear it apart," she said as Eowyn took the blade. "It is my hope that you will take a role that will reshape the way women are perceived in this country. You are given a gift of influence, one that will not crush your spirit should you not let it, I know this is your fear." She said as Eowyn took the blade and let a few strokes loose in the air. Testing its agility in her nimble, skilled fingers.
She swung the sword about with greater and greater speed, before stopping abruptly and standing to face her once more.
"You mean use my royal status as a delegate for women's rights." She said still holding the sword in her hand.
"Even if it is only through example," she said as Eowyn handed her the sword once more. Caitlin sheathed it.
"It is a beautiful weapon, its weight and make would suggest it was intended for a woman, though the length and design is one I have never seen, it seems to long for its hilt yet it is perfectly balanced," she said
"It is named Gomaithis, sword of light, forged for the Lady Galadriel, another wise and powerful woman who rules the elven city of Lothlorien." She said.
Eowyn reached into the chest and pulled out her own sword then reached again and came out with a belt and sheath.
"I shall wear my weapon, it brings joy to my heart, that is my principal reason, but you have brought up one that I hadn't thought of, so I also wear this blade for my fellow women, who would themselves take up arms and defend their country were they not suppressed by the limitations of culture and current custom." She said as she placed a friendly hand on Caitlin's shoulder. "I can see that your presence shall breath life into us all once more." She said.
The moment was a silent respect and understanding between these two extraordinary women.
Eowyn leaned in whispering in her ear, "He is a handsome and brave warrior, I am happy for you." She said.
Caitlin was confused, then Eowyn motioned with her eyes to the front door where Legolas leaned against a post, waiting for her. "You are a strange woman from a strange land, the Elven race seems more your kin than that of men, though had I met you without such circumstance I would have sworn you my sister." She said with a smile.
"And had I met you in my home, I believe I would come to the same conclusion my friend." Said Caitlin with a warm affection
"The bathhouse is just around the corner their," she said. "I will see you when we depart." She said as she released Caitlin.
"H-how did you know?" she said. "About the bath."
"I didn't, I was hoping that was were you wanted to go." She said with a smile. "You do have a pungent odder."
Caitlin motioned to Legolas and then headed to the bath. Legolas came up beside her.
Caitlin smiled taking his hand in her own. "You know you seem to have become my shadow." She said.
"Yes, that is true." He said. " A very enjoyable role." He said as he followed her.
They reached the bathhouse, its steamy air flooding them as they entered. Caitlin walked in, seeing several large wooden tubs with steaming water in them. The whole room was empty of people, all preparing for their departure; she turned but found the door closed and Legolas not inside.
She opened the door and found him standing outside. "Why are you standing outside of the room?" she asked.
"Well I thought you might want some privacy." He said.
A scowl came over her face, "oh don't be silly." She said with great annoyance, yanking him inside. "How do you expect me to take my hair down, or even get in one of these things, they are huge, I could drown....or..." she was trying very hard to think of legitimate reasons he should stay, "there could be a problem with the water, or a towel disaster or someth......."
He moved his whole body to hers, pulling her close to him and crashing his lips onto her own. He wrapped his arms around her, moving his hand through her hair, closing any gap between them, their was a wild abandonment of all inhibition in the passion of their kiss, compulsively engulfed in the others scent, the feel of their hair, the pale, softness of the skin. No army, no war was strong enough to subdue their passion for one another.
His grasp of her released, her eyes closed, and her breathing heavy. Their faces remained close, touching each others foreheads, "if you wanted me to stay, all you had to do was ask." He said his voice soft, a whisper, as his hand came up to touch her mangled hair.
"Will you stay." She said kissing him again, "I want you to stay." She whispered, the sound of the steam rising in the background. The feeling of Legolas, holding her close.
"Join me in the bath?" she said quietly again. Her arms wrapped around him.
"Yes please." He said softly as they both headed to the large wooden tub.
"Where is Legolas, I must speak with him." Said Aragorn as he passed Gimli.
"I believe he is with Caitlin," said Gimli.
"So where is she?" he asked.
"Um, I think she said she was going to take a bath." He said.
"Ok." Aragorn headed up the stair, stopped and then returned to Gimli's side.
"What?" he asked again. Not sure he had heard his companion right.
"I said she is taking a bath." He said again.
Aragorn stood in thought on Gimlis words, he knew that Legolas had romantic interest in Caitlin, it was apparent, but he hadn't observed anything beyond that. Aragorn knew he was swayed by his own love for Arwen, and that the concern he had for his two friends was caused by the heartache he was enduring with his love for her, how difficult love of an immortal was. His hand came up, grazing the Evenstar he wore around his neck.
"Don't worry, I have given the lad a stern talking to." Said Gimli, who was unaware of what Aragorn was thinking.
"That is not my concern Gimli, I have known Legolas for many years, and I have all confidence that he would do all in his power to preserve them both from pain." His eyes wondered to the sky as he thought of Arwen and the journey she must take. "But some pain is unavoidable, some pain, you bring upon yourself and there is no healing it." he said.
"....and you, why have you not spent much time around other races?" she asked him as he took the sponge and ran it over her back.
"Elves tend to keep to themselves, Estel...I mean Aragorn has been the only mortal I have spent a significant amount of time around, and so much of him is so elvish already that this journey has given me a new perspective on mortals." He said
"So, this is also your first true encounter with death?" she asked.
"Elves may be killed, by metal, fire or if they become weary with life and choose to end it." he said. "But elves who choose to stay away from battle will never have to face death as mortals do, and to my recollection, there have never been records of an elf growing weary of life." He said.
"Do you find it different, being surrounded by mortals, being the only immortal?" she asked.
"Yes. Mortals are dying all the time, every moment; every breath brings them closer to death. In my youth I thought mortals to be a lesser race, but now, as I watch them live and breath, as I watch them with such passion for life, I feel they have been blessed with mortality. It is not a curse, it is a constant reminder that life is precious and should be treasured and fought for, that it must be seized. Elves do not have expressions like, 'seize the day', for we have no need, but there is something almost divine about capturing a moment in time and realizing its frailty and impermanence. For elves, even when we die, our spirits have a choice of either returning to middle earth to be reborn, or wait in a place of rest until this world lives though all its days." He said.
"So elves are connected to Middle earth, even in death? They truly don't ever die"
"Yes, and even though most will travel to Valinor, to the Valor, some will return, and some will feel the connection so great to this soil that they will never return the call of the sea. And though my kin may call those who choose to remain 'dark elves' I would admire them for their courage and love of middle earth."
"What is Valinor? Why have you chosen to stay behind?" she said.
Legolas smiled, "what is with all these questions, do you think we will run out of time to discuss such things?" he said playfully.
Caitlin smiled reaching over and taking another hand full of oils. She had been so pleased that Rohan had shampoo and conditioner, well not that they called it shampoo and conditioner, but the equivalent to such. They smelled sweet like pears.
Legolas had let his hair down, allowing Caitlin to wash it for him, and he had returned the favor, undoing her long blonde hair and rubbing the sweet cleaner through her hair.
"You have such beautiful hair, I have never seen such color." He said as he lifted it to the side.
Caitlin thought she should tell him it was from a box, but she chose to let him just enjoy it.
"Thank you." She said reaching back and playing with his hair, "your going to have to do my hair up again when it drys," she said as she twisted her finger through his hair.
"It will be my pleasure." He said. As he rubbed the sponge over her back again.
"Did I not notice this mark before?" he said as he ran his hand over her birthmark.
"I don't think so." She responded. "It is called a strawberry, it once was red when I was born, but now its pigment is just like the rest of the skin. I am surprised you found it, the only thing that really distinguishes it from the rest of my skin is the fact that it is so sensitive and soft." She said.
He ran a finger over the small quarter sized circular birthmark, " it is soft, like the texture of your lips." He said.
Caitlin turned around in the bath to face him. "Legolas, do you miss your home, of Mirkwood?" she asked.
"It has been ninety three days, thirteen hours since I saw the Mirkwood city as my horse carried me away, I watched it dip into the horizon, getting smaller and smaller, until its image was gone." He said, his gaze not particular at anything.
"Do you miss your home?" asked Legolas.
Caitlin searched his eyes, these deep pools of light that had more effect on her than any thing or anyone she had ever known. "I miss my home very much, sometimes I feel the pain so great that I will die from it, my desire to be home hurts my chest and I cannot breath." Legolas held her close, and she rested her head against his chest, as the steam rose around them. "Then I am with you...I am not cold when I am with you, I am alright. Like I am back where I belong, I can see, that through this darkness, through this war, there is light, and hope. It feels like home, I am home." She said. "Whenever I see your face, I am home."
Legolas held her, his arms wrapping her in a warm embrace. Her words touched his heart and he knew that he would love her for all of his days. He was in love with a mortal, under the slowly awakening doom of this world, he understood Aragorns torcher. Legolas was not blind to the impossibility of their love, to the hardships they would have to accept along with their growing affection. He knew a day would come that a decision would have to be made.
"We should get going, it is almost time to leave," she said. They had been soaking in the bath for nearly an hour and a half, enjoying the water and having each other their.
"Alright," he said. Legolas knew that the day he dreaded would come, but it was not today, and more pressing matters presented themselves before that time should be considered an issue.
Caitlin knew that Eowyn was a great woman, but she was also smart in the ways of hospitality, taking Caitlin's cloths to wash, leaving Caitlin with a deep blue dress not so unlike her own. Its long while sleeved hung from her elbows, adding a touch of femininity while still allowing full range of movement. Caitlin wrapped her belt about her waist. Her long hair was still damp but not soaking, and she twisted it up, to put it loosely about her head. She turned around seeing Legolas standing there, his gaze fixed on her.
"You are such a true woman." He said as he gazed at her, the dress fitting her form well, she looked comfortable I a dress, like she belonged in a dress, but she looked the same when she wore gear to fight and travel.
They both went out into the courtyard, finding that everyone was finishing getting ready. They would set out in ten minutes.
Caitlin and Legolas rushed to the stables. Caitlin quickly placed the saddle on Asufeld, which already had all of her things loaded on it. She quickly took the reigns and jumped on Asufeld, finding Legolas right behind her.
She walked him out of the stall; meeting glances as she paced the people still readying their horses.
"We ride," said Hama as his company set out, their journey slow, Caitlin and Legolas made their way to the front where they found Aragorn and Theoden leading the people.
"My friend, you look like a girl." Said Aragorn with a smirk on his face.
"I am a girl." She said
"So it would seem." He responded.
"What pace should we make, if our goal is to make it to Helms Deep within three days." Said Caitlin.
"A slow pace, we could take into account many possible obstacles at that pace my lady." Said Theoden. "But what would lead me to make such a pace."
"Was that not the pace you were thinking would be appropriate my lord?" she said.
"Yes, that is exactly what I thought we would do." He said.
Aragorn laughed quietly. "As I have told you king Theoden, it would serve you well to listen to my companion, she is full of surprises." He said.
"Why does she ride with those who lead," said Hama as he rode next to Theoden.
The smile was wiped from Caitlin's face upon his words. Aragorn looked at him with a stern eye. "Because she DOES lead." He said. "I would follow her into battle against the worst of enemies." He said.
Caitlin remained quiet as he spoke. Knowing that he most likely WOULD follow her into battle. And against an enemy worse than any this world had ever seen.
Her hands were sweaty as she gripped Asufelds reigns. She searched Hamas face as she rode, she knew that he was only trying to protect his people, he was also influenced by the customs of his country, and to him, Caitlin was a rarity. It was almost unheard of for a woman to have so much power in Rohan.
But as she rode beside these honorable and brave people, she felt she would show her worth in the battles to come, and whether they came to respect her or not, she still had a mission to complete.
They rode all the rest of that day, with the majority of the villagers on foot.
They stopped for the night, before the sun had passed below the horizon, but with the dusk showing itself.
Caitlin noticed the division of the campfires as she looked out among the many flames that lit the surrounding areas. The few Soldiers their were camped with fellow soldiers. Villagers camped with their families and neighbors, sharing a fire. King Theoden and the captains of his army and his trusted advisors camped together, with Aragorn, Gimli, Legolas, and Caitlin joining them. Discussing the plan of their root to Helms Deep.
Caitlin sat at the fire, Gimli to her right, and Legolas to her left; Theoden sat across from her with Hama and another advisor.
Caitlin looked across the plains. A bit past the next camp over she saw, Aragorn, sitting next to a slope, Eowyn standing above her, holding a bowl of soup. A grin came over Caitlin's face as she remembered this encounter, how horrible the soup was and how Eowyn would discover Aragorns true age, and his Dunadain heritage.
"What are ya doin there?" said Gimli, snapping her back to the project she she was doing.
Asufelds saddle rest in her hands, and using her dagger was re-stuffing the saddle.
"Oh, this, I find this saddle to remove me to much from Asufeld, I am removing some of the stuffing and the front and back bars, so I may more easily feel the horse beneath me, and he may understand my commands without my having to tell them to him." She said with a smile.
"Hah," said Hama with a dismissive laugh. "Foolish girl." He said.
"The magic of the elves is reserved for them alone, let them keep their trickery on their own steeds." He said. As he took a sip of the hot drink he held in his hand.
"Why dismiss it so quickly, have you ever tried it?" said Caitlin.
"His mind is to full of his own thoughts." Said Legolas. "To communicate with a horse you must first hear the horse speak, and to do that your mind must be open and quiet. I do not dought your ability to achieve such communication Hama, but not until you grow a little more will it be beyond your grasp." Said Legolas.
"As I would hope it remains." Said Hama.
"If you will excuse me," said Caitlin as she put down the saddle. She noticed that Eowyn had left Aragorn and she went over to visit with him. Walking over and sitting by his side.
"You know she fancies you." Said Caitlin as he and Aragorn stared out at the horizon.
"Yes." He said. "I can see that." he said as his hand wandered up to caress the Evenstar.
"You feel her. And she feels you, through space, across mountains, and plains, through trees and walls, your hearts will remain ever connected." She said
Aragorn turned his head to look at her. "The dream has ended for us, for Arwen and Myself. Though you are right, I will never be rid of her in my heart, I feel her emotions, when she is sad, when she is happy, I feel the brush of her hair on my skin, her lips on mine." Caitlin turned to face him. "Torcher is not always of the body, or of the mind, and this is the worst kind, because you cause it for yourself, and therefore it lingers, like a poison, eating away at you. The happiest and most painful thing in life, is love." He said.
"There is a hidden purpose in your words Lord Aragorn, I know you well enough to see when you wish to say something, you can tell me, you don't have to sneak around the issue." She said with a smile.
Aragorn took a deep breath in. "you are right hodoer," he said. Standing up, "will you walk with me." He asked.
Caitlin stood, as she and Aragorn walked together down the slope away from the camp, as the sun darkened in the sky.
They walked for several minutes without speaking, the wind blowing by them.
"Caitlin, I have no family, no brothers, no parents. But I have friends that are like family, friends such as you. I would never want you to be hurt, so, as a good friend I tell you to be careful, give your heart to the pursuit of a love that will blossom, not dwindle with hardship as mine does." He said as they walked along the plains.
It was dark now, very dark, "I thank you for your love, only a friend who truly loved me would be truthful enough to bring up such concerns." She said.
They continued to walk, up now, toward the fires, as it was getting rather cold.
"Eowyn looks as though she wishes to speak to you." Said Aragorn as they entered the encampment.
Eowyn was sitting across the plain, the flickering fire lighting her face. She was peering at them with an expression that clearly called to caitlin.
"I have enjoyed out conversation," said caitlin, giving him a hug. "sleep well my friend."
She said as they parted. "and you as well." He said.
Caitlin followed the light from the flame that surrounded the camp Eowyn was at.
"I hope I didn't interrupt your conversation." Said Eowyn as caitlin approached.
"no we were finished," she said. As she sat next to Eowyn.
" I am worried." Said Eowyn. "that Edoras will no longer stand when we return."
Caitlin was taken aback, realizing that all these people believed they were heading for safety, that Helms Deep would be their refuge, and Edoras would be attacked, possibly destroyed.
"Edoras shall stand tall when you return." She said.
Eowyn smiled. And caitlin knew that was her main concern. "you love Aragorn," said caitlin.
Eowyns face lifted. " yes," she said. "is their anything you can tell me," she asked.
Eowyns eyes were pleading, yeurning to learn of her own feelings, and his.
"I cannot tell you the answers, but I can tell you that love will be a part of your life, for all of your life." She said, thinking of the comfort and true love Eowyn would find in Faramir.
Eowyn looked at the ground, finding the comfort in her words. Then she looked up again and smiled at caitlin. "thank you." She said. as she looked at caitlin, suddenly her eyes became wide and she stood abruptly, looking past caitlins form. "w-what it is." Said caitlin as she turned to see Gimli running at her, ax in hand, held over his head.
Caitlindrew her sword and a great smile came over her face as Gimli came closer and closer. She yelled and ran forward toward him, his battle cry echoing through the land.
At the last moment, just before impact, caitlin slid down onto her back and lifted her legs, hurling Gimli up over her head.
Gimli flew, his body landing hard on the ground; he spun around quickly getting to his feet. Caitlin did the same, jumping to her feet, as Gimli encircled her.
"you've been chattin all night," he said in a rough voice as his ax spun around through his hands. "I say it is time to test some skills," he said as he attacked.
"AAAAYYAAHH." Screamed caitlin as he came forth and struck from the side. She moved forward lifting her sword and moving behind Gimli. As the dwarve ended his strike, caitlin thought for certain she had him, her sword ready to attack from behind, but Gimli swung his ax to the other hand, moving it to the back and simultaneously bending his knees and lowering himself even further to the ground and as caitlin tried to duck to avoid his ax which was coming at her, she lost her footing over Gimlis lowered body. She began to fall and Gimli, feeling this lifted his arms and body to the sky, picking her up and holding her above his head. "AND WHAT ARE YA GOING TO DO NOW." He said. But through the sentence caitlin flipped her weight over, doing a summersault and landing on her feet, her sword aimed directly at his chest.
They both stood their, her hair in disarray as it had fallen from the bun she had put it in.
"Ah, well....then.... I suppose, that would.....be one option." He said as he saw his defeat.
Caitlin smiled, as they both lowered their weapons. Gimli patted her on the back, "so I see ya got yourself a dress," he said. "I think you will be better served with the elven cloths, but this is nice for now." He said.
Caitlin looked at Eowyn, who took her cloths out of a sack. "I think I will change into my former traveling gear in the morning." Said caitlin as she took the cloths from eowyn and looked at Gimli.
"ah, a good thing, I don't think you will be doin much of anything in that dress." He said. "not the way we travel."
"the hour grows late, lass." He continued. "we should be off to bed."
"so what was that whole attack thing supposed to be, a bed time story. Why don't we train now?" She said
"ah, I was just jokin around with ya, I actually have a message from the elf. He wishes to speak with ya." Said Gimli as they walked back toward their fire.
"I seem to be popular tonight, and Gimli, I know you care for Legolas enough to at least call him by name." Said caitlin.
Gimli lowered his gaze and tried to deny his growing friendship with legolas. "oh, I care nothing for the lad, I only tolerate him because you care for him with such affection." He said.
"I can see our fire, I wonder what he wants." Said caitlin under her breath as they came upon the camp.
Ok I had no idea how to end this chapter, and it was getting so long, so I will just continue this chapter in the next chapter. I know that every chapter seems to be so very serious, but the scene is very tense right now, in further chapters I will be adding in more between Eowyn and Caitlin, as well as with all the characters. There are also going to be some up and coming twists in the plot, where things aren't the way they were in the movies. More perplexing dreams. A deepening romance will be continued with Legolas and Caitlin. And much more.
P.s. I have also tried to take into consideration all the reviews, so I will try and keep the story consistent in those terms. Aiko Alima