Hello everyone, this is the moment we've all been waiting for. . . dum-dum-
dum. . . Elladan's return!!!!!! Hope you guys will like this chapter cause
I worked really hard on it.
Kiku: Hope you feel better soon, the flu sucks! Happy that this fic helps though. I have a plan to hook Haldir up with someone but that is still a little early.
Kukume: Glad you liked but I don't think it's all that healty to be so hooked to my fic. Well I updated soon because I wouldn't want you to go in withdrawal now would I?
Quiet One: Hope you catch up with this chapter soon, hope you like the reunion ;)
Sailorverystupid: *snatches hot chocolate and tickets* I love you right now. . . lalalala I'm going to Canada. *lol* Now seriously, no need to bribe me, I love to write this fic.
Chibi Chingo: Happy you like my fic but how exactly did I screw the plot of the book up? For starters Haldir doesn't die in the books so I decided to let him live, and Éomer was arrestewd in the book as well, only in the movie he was banished. I'm confused here! Oh and I know I use of instead of off a lot, blame it on English not being my first language.
Elvish princess: Hmmmm, communication problem between us. I meant to say don't kill me cause I wouldn't be able to update if I were dead. Sorry, my attempt to joke failed : ( And yes, there are major spoilers for RotK. I hope you will still read my fic though.
Musicgrl: I'm gonna check out your work later and I'm sure it doesn't suck!!!!!
Sugar-is-sweet: Nono, I don't think you're mean! I'm happy when you point these kind of things out, it means you're paying a lot of attention to what I'm writing. You always make sense to me ;) Glad you like the way she put that guy in his place.
Shinigami29: hey Audrey, happy you liked it so much.
Aurumlupi: I'm sorry, I updated again, forgive me????
Sindamellonwe: Thanks for the compliment, hope you will like this chapter as well.
Arwen-evenstar: I failed to talk my mom into going to TTT with me, she isn't in for sitting in a movie-theater for three hours. She said she would wait until it came on video, so I'll just either go by myself (not likely) ot wait for the release on video. Too bad it will take a very long time.
THEwriter Lioncub: Glad you liked, girl power rules!!!!!
Meggers: Sorry I made you cry ahain, but at least I gave you Kleenex right? What did your teacher do to make you so angry? I have a cold as well, so I know exactly how you're feeling ;)
DISCLAIMER: lalala not in the mood lalala
Rita jumped to her feet as Haldir did that as well. Both knew that the men who rode to Isengard had returned. Haldir let Rita run away, keeping a slow pace himself.
When she saw the riders return she immediately spotted Legolas and Gimli on their friend Arod. She recognized the faces of king Theoden and Éomer and then she saw Aragorn with Merry behind him. Suddenly she knew what was missing.
"Where is Gandalf?" she asked as the riders dismounted. She ran to Merry and asked him in an urgent tone. "Where is Pippin Merry? Where is he? He is with you right and unharmed?"
Neither of them noticed that they were the center of attention as they met again and Merry looked up at her with such a sad expression that Rita thought for sure the young hobbit had died, but he soon explained himself. "Gandalf took him to Minas Tirith. He looked into the palantir and Gandalf thought for it to be safer if Pippin came with him."
She could clearly see the sorrow for the loss of his companion and she hugged him tight. "I've been so worried about you, what on earth happened to you. We were sure you were dead until Gandalf told us otherwise, I was so afraid to loose another friend."
The hobbit wriggled out of her grasp and looked at the horn on her belt with wide eyes and tears spilled from them. "Boromir. . . " Merry croaked "He died bravely, he protected us and I feel guilty in a way." More tears made their way down his cheek.
Rita pulled him into a hug again while a tear escaped from her eye. "He died very bravely indeed Merry, but you shouldn't feel so guilty for it was his time. The Valar must have had their reasons for his death and we must believe he is in a better place now."
The two held on to each other as the others observed them. Legolas and Gimli remembered the time when the fellowship was still intact and Aragorn had a slight smile as Rita almost quoted what he had told her earlier.
Haldir and the other elves from Lothlorien stayed back, sensing that this was a private moment but the Rohirrim didn't seem to be troubled by this.
Curious to what was happening they neared to gape at the strange small boy (Merry was a small boy in their eyes) and the girl most shunned, for they did not trust her not even after the great battle of Helm's Deep.
Aragorn broke the spell. "I am happy you are well Rita, I was worried about you even if I left you in good care."
Suddenly remembering that she had been left behind Rita let go of Merry and approached Aragorn. The man looked at her as if he was expecting an attack and if she were honest she wanted to hit him for leaving her behind but Orophin's words still echoed in her head.
"I don't know whether to hit you or to hug you, you sneaky man. I want to hit you for leaving me behind but I can see the reason you did. I am just happy you returned unharmed." She gave him a hug and felt him give a sigh of relief as she did so.
Gimli's gruff voice boomed through the air. "Do not think it was easy to leave you lass, I hope these elves took good care of you. If they have not done so just say the word and I'll chop of some heads."
Haldir neared them as well. "The elves have taken care of her, Master Dwarf. We kept her safe from any danger." He shot a dark look at some of the Rohirrim as he said this.
Aragorn and Legolas exchanged a look. Rita lead Gimli and Merry away to get them some water and food. While they were looking at the retreating figures of the three the future king asked in Sindarin. "What happened?"
Haldir looked at the Rohirrim who now left them alone for the reason of their interest had departed as well. "She was attacked again. I wish more men were like you Aragorn, yet these men do not know how to treat a woman."
"What? She was unharmed?"
"Aye Aragorn, she defended herself very well. She hurt her hand when she hit the man" a slight smile appeared on the elf's face. "I believe she has broken his jaw."
Legolas grinned. "That is good, I had expected nothing less of her, she is a true warrior." The other men grinned as well and started to walk slowly to the direction of the keep where they could see Theoden was preparing his men for departure.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Rita brought Merry and Gimli to the elvish part of the keep and started to pack her bedroll as Merry told her the short version of what had happened to him and Pippin while they were captured. She was fascinated by the story about the Ents.
"So you are telling me that these. . . Ents are living trees and they attacked Isengard and defeated. I wish I had the chance to meat them, they sound truly wonderful and I have to thank them for taking care of you two rascals."
Merry played to be offended. "I am no rascal, you must have me mistaken for that Took. Besides I can tell stories about the pranks you two played in Rivendell and Lothlorien as well."
Holding her hands up in surrender Rita started to giggle. "You're right Merry, I won't breath another word."
Gimli just shook his head at their behavior and when Rita asked him he told her about Saruman. "I do not understand how a wizard that was once so wise and good could have turned to the darkness. When you heard his voice one would not believe him to be evil for his voice is gentle and kind. Yet the words he speaks are truey poisonous."
"And what happened next Gimli, what did Gandalf do to him?"
"He did nothing lass, he broke his staff and banished him from the order of wizards. After that he let him stay in his room, where he is now locked in as the Ents guard him."
The story was interrupted as Haldir shouted that they were leaving and all elves started to pack. Gimli and Merry turned to Rita for they didn't understand what had just been said.
"We're leaving." She said and the dwarf and the hobbit left to find the others while Rita helped the other elves pack.
She put some fresh bandages around some of the wounds and helped the wounded up. There was so much activity around her and all was done in silence but she wasn't disturbed by it. The elves had become her friends and she found that words were not always necessary for she started to understand their way of thinking.
After refilling all the water skins and distributing the rations of lembas the elves started to gather. Rita found Orophin who was still limping and she supported him as they slowly followed the others.
The Rohirrim had gathered as well and the king told them to ride to Dunharrow. Also he gave the order that all men should double with an elf so they would be able to make speed.
When one of the men mentioned that this might be to heavy for the horses Aragorn shook his head. "The elves are very light, the horses will not be hindered by them."
So the Rohirrim relented and soon all of the elves were behind one of the Rohirrim. Haldir was given a horse of his own by Theoden, as he was the leader of the elves.
Rita and Orophin were the last to arrive and Haldir quickly trotted towards them. "I am sorry brother, but I was busy gathering the elves and discussing things with Aragorn and the king. You will ride in front of me."
With the help of Rita Haldir was able to pull his brother on the horse. When she glanced around she saw that there was nobody left to ride with.
Behind Aragorn sat Merry and Legolas and Gimli rode together as well. The only one still free was Éomer, and Rita really didn't feel like riding with him.
She inspected the horse, it was a very strong one and was a beautiful shade of dark brown. "Haldir" she said "Do you think your horse might be able to carry another?"
The elf looked around and didn't answer her but just held out his hand. She grabbed it and was pulled behind him.
She held on to him as he made his way to the front and rode beside Legolas and Aragorn. The latter shook his head at the sight they made. He started to jest in Sindarin, for he knew Orophin was not good at speaking the common language.
"The king said to double, but this is getting out of hand. The poor horse will fall down at his burden."
Rita glared at him. "Are you calling me fat?"
The man gulped, he hadn't expected her to react like that. Then she did something very unexpected, she started to giggle. He looked at her confused and was waiting for her to explain.
"You should have" she laughed even harder "seen your face. You looked as if you feared I would hurt you."
Her laughter was contagious and they rode on in good spirit until they reached the point where the elves would part with them.
The Rohirrim and the (remainder of the) fellowship would go left to ride towards Dunharrow while the elves had to turn right to return to Lothlorien.
The entire convoy stopped and the elves started to get ready for their journey to the woods. The king decided all would be able to rest for a while and the Rohirrim dismounted as well.
Theoden held a speech in which he thanked the elves for their assistance and he bade them a good journey. Then he left to talk to Éomer and some other Rohirrim to discuss their next course of action. Soon only the elves and the members of the fellowship remained.
Aragorn and the others said their farewells and Rita looked at the elves sadly. "I'm going to walk with them for a bit." she told Aragorn and followed the elves who were already walking away.
Gimli tried to stop her but Legolas put his arm on the dwarf's shoulder to keep him from doing that. "She wants to say goodbye Gimli, let her do that in her own way." Finally the dwarf nodded and Legolas looked into the distance.
"Riders are approaching!" he exclaimed and this caught the attention of the Rohirrim.
Éomer stepped forwards as the cloaked figures neared and demanded to know what they were doing in Rohan.
"We are looking for Aragorn son of Arathorn, we heard he was dwelling in these lands. I am Halbarad of the Dúnedain."
Aragorn leaped forwards. "You have found him, Halbarad of all the joys this must be the greatest. What are you doing here?"
"I gathered as much of our kin when you summoned us, the two sons of Lord Elrond joined us as well for they wished to aid in this war."
"I summoned none, but nevertheless I am very happy to see you."
The Rohirrim were relieved that the company turned out to be friendly and Theoden commented that if these men were anything like Aragorn, they would be very helpful.
The riders of the company dismounted as well and they spoke with Aragorn. Legolas noticed Elladan looking around in search of Rita and saw that he started to panic when he could not find her. "She is well Elladan" he said "She is saying goodbye to her friends but she will return in some time."
Aragorn turned to his brother after he had hugged Elrohir. "I cannot say how much it pleases me to see you brother. I have missed you yet Rita missed you even more. She will be overjoyed to see you."
They talked but Elladan's eyes drifted around often.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Meanwhile Rita and the Lothlorien elves had been too far away to notice the arrival of the company of rangers and the two elves. After walking in silence for almost 15 minutes Haldir halted. "This is where we must part Rita, for you must return to the others."
She nodded and walked past the elves to say goodbye to all of them separately. Some nodded at her and some clasped her shoulder in a sign of respect and friendship and she returned their gestures.
Finally she reached the three that mattered most to her in this company. The three brothers stood together and Orophin was the first that hugged her.
"I will miss you Rita, you have saved my life though you are unwilling to admit this. I want you to have this." He handed her his arm-straps (you know the ones that Aragorn strapped on at the end of FotR)
Rita tried to give them back but he insisted she should have them. "I will not use them soon as my leg must heal first, you will need them more than I will." He helped her put them on her arms and hugged her once more.
Rumil was next and he put a helm on her head after he hugged her. Rita was surprised it fir her so well and at the weight of it. She had expected the helm to be much heavier.
The last one to turn to her was Haldir. He looked deep in her eyes before he clasped her shoulder. After that he took his cloak off and put it around Rita after unclasping hers. He fastened it with her broach, the one she was given by Lady Galadriel.
"Your cloak is torn and no longer to keep you warm during the chilly nights in Rohan and Gondor. I offer you mine as sign of my respect, you are a brave warrior and I would be proud to battle beside you again."
Rita was surprised at his words as he usually was an elf of little words, but that surprise was nothing compared to what she felt when he pulled her into a hug.
She hugged him right back and started to smile. "Well, your hugging skills are improving already, there might be hope for you yet." She let him go after hugging him tightly once more and she whispered softly in his ear. "Hurry back to us Haldir, we can use all the help we can get to protect Gondor."
He let her go and nodded. "Until next we meet my friend, until next we meet. Know you will always be welcome with the elves of Lothlorien."
Rita felt a lump in her throat as she watched the elves marching home, the wounded supported by those who weren't. She couldn't believe how close she had gotten to them in such a small period of time. *I seem to be thinking that a lot lately* she mused as she started to walk back.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Legolas was in conversation with Elladan when he noticed his companion's eyes widen and turned around to see Rita in the distance. She was wearing a red cloak now and a helm.
He smiled when he noticed that Elladan seemed to be hypnotized at the sight of her. Her helm and weapons shone in the sunlight and her cloak moved at every step she took. Suddenly she halted and stared in their direction.
Rita couldn't believe what she was seeing, actually she couldn't believe WHO she was seeing. She blinked a couple of times but the image of Elladan would not disappear. Then she realized that he was very real and started to race towards him as fast as she could.
This of course drew the attention of the others and Elrohir, Aragorn, Gimli and Merry walked over to stand with Legolas and Elladan.
The latter started to walk forwards and didn't have to wait long for Rita to reach him, she was running so fast one would think she was being chased by a band of orcs.
Finally she was close enough and she fell into his arms and he crushed her to his chest as he twirled her around. Her helm fell to the ground as he did this and he closed his eyes at the joy he felt to hold her again.
Her arms were clinging around his neck and she buried her face in the nape of his neck. "I missed you so much, Elladan, more than I could ever imagine."
He pulled back a little to be able to look in her eyes. "I missed you as well melamin, the past few months seemed like years." He was about to kiss her when Elrohir interrupted.
"Do not keep her all to yourself Elladan, I wish to say hello as well."
Reluctantly she was released and Rita gave Elrohir a quick hug. "Great timing Elrohir" she grumbled "You just ruined a perfectly romantic moment. Just you wait, I will do this to you as well when you haven't seen your love for months."
Then Elladan started to laugh. "You will not have to wait very long to do that melamin, for my brother has finally fallen head over feet with a beautiful maiden. He now knows the horror of being parted with the one you love."
A huge grin formed on her face. "Wait a minute, are you saying that Elrohir, Mr. if-love-makes-you-act-so-crazy-I-don't-wanna-fall-in-love-any- time-soon has fallen in love?" she turned to Elrohir who was shooting a glare at his brother. "Who is she?"
"Nobody" he answered.
Elladan chuckled. "I do not believe Atiel would like to called a nobody brother. I wonder what she would say if she heard that."
"She will not hear this."
"Who says she won't?" Elladan retorted and Rita chuckled at their bickering.
She hugged Elladan again. "Stop teasing him you bully, it's mean." Elladan pulled her close again and Rita closed her eyes as she took a deep breath, taking in as much of his sent as she could.
Meanwhile their friends looked at them with a smile on his face and Éomer approached them. "Who is he?" he asked.
It was Aragorn who answered him. "He is Elladan, son of Elrond and the love of Rita. She missed him very much while we were travelling."
King Theoden had joined as well. "This we can see, but we must ride again. I wish to ride until nightfall."
Aragorn had to agree and he told the Dúnedain to mount at the same time the Rohirrim were given the same order. He neared the couple as they seemed to be oblivious to what was going on around them. "We must ride on." He said and smiled when Elladan lead Rita to his horse, after she grabbed her helm that was lying on the ground, and put her in front of him, his arms encircling her waist.
The company rode on and Rita felt warm and safe in Ellandan's arms. She snuggled even closer and closed her eyes, intent to remember this feeling forever.
When night began to fall Theoden gave the order to rest and Elrohir and Halbarad joined Aragorn as he walked away. Gimli and Legolas sat down with Merry and were talking softly when Rita walked up, Elladan not far behind her.
"Is it ok I leave my stuff with you guys?" she asked.
"We will keep an eye on them." Promised Legolas and he watched as she unshouldered her pack and took of her helm and arm-straps. "It seems the elves of Lothlorien respect you very much Rita, for it is not common for them to part with their equipment."
She smiled at the memory. "Orophin insisted that I should take his arm- straps, Rumil put the helm on my head without asking and Haldir gave me his cloak with that look of his. You know, the do-as-I-say look." Rita sighed softly. "I'm gonna miss them, they're good friends. Now more than ever."
Then Merry noticed the bandage around her hand. "What happened to your hand Rita?"
The others looked at it as well, they hadn't noticed it yet either. Legolas narrowed his eyes. "Did this happen when you were attacked by one of the Rohirrim again?"
"How did you. . . " Rita's voice trailed off an she answered her own question. "Haldir told you huh? He was so totally overreacting. I mean I wasn't really attacked it was just the same guy that harassed me at Helm's Deep. He said some stuff and I got mad and hit him, thus hurting my hand. When Haldir and the others found out I was kind of worried, they were so angry."
Gimli frowned. "What exactly did this man say to make you so angry?"
Rita started to answer him but shut her mouth as she remembered the way these guys acted around her: very protective. Not to mention the fact that Elladan was behind her and no matter how much she disliked the man, she didn't want to see him dead.
"Well?" demanded the dwarf again.
"Nothing important Gimli, it's over now. I hung with the elves until you guys came back. I've had it with the Rohirrim." She then turned to Elladan and as soon as she noticed the flame of anger in his eyes she pulled him along, away from all the men.
She reached a rather secluded area that was hidden behind some huge boulders and she decided that this was a good place to talk.
"Ok Elladan, right now you need to calm down."
"Calm? You were attacked and you expect me to be calm?"
"Yes, I'm ok. That's the most important thing. Besides, it's not as if I was unprotected, I had a whole army of elves to watch my back. Haldir first in line. He was so mad, you should have seen him."
Elladan stared in her eyes. "You seem to be close to Haldir and his brothers."
"Yeah, I like them, they're very good friends."
"I am happy you are safe Rita, you cannot begin to imagine the fear I felt for you. This is part of the reason I joined the rangers once they were summoned, I could not bear to stay away from you anymore."
Rita wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him close. "I missed you so very much Elladan, the way you looked and smelled and. . . "
"And what?" he asked.
Her voice was hoarse as she answered him. "The way you tasted."
She didn't get an answer because he pressed his lips to hers immediately. Rita sighed when she felt his tong part her lips and take a hold of her mouth. She returned the kiss with the same passion and felt herself being pushed against one of the boulders.
When the need for air became too great she broke apart from the kiss and took a large breath and hugged him as tight as she could.
He placed soft kisses on her cheek and neck and refused to let her go. She wanted more than those tiny kisses and this time it was her who initiated the kiss.
She pulled his head towards hers and tangled her hands in his hair as she did this. With her tong she traced the contours of his lips and she smiled when he opened his mouth to allow her to enter. She decided to torture him for a bit and started to suck on his bottom lip.
He moaned slightly as she did this and she gave in to his unspoken wish and slipped her tong in his mouth, touching his with her own. She had almost forgotten the tingles his kisses gave her but now she was reminded of them again as she felt butterflies in her stomach and shivers going down her spine.
Rita could feel him tremble as she caressed his shoulders and neck and noticed she was shaking as well. It was as if her entire soul was put into the kiss and she felt like she could sense every emotion Elladan was feeling: love, desire, longing and desperation. She could only imagine what he might feel and it felt very good.
They broke apart again and this time they just held on tight until Elladan decided they should head back to get some rest. They walked hand in hand to where her pack was and she spread her bedroll out and laid on it and Elladan lay behind her and they fell asleep instantly.
Legolas raised his eyebrows at Gimli. "Do you think they even noticed us?" he asked the dwarf, but Gimli just started to laugh.
"Please, they only had eyes for each other." They studied the sleeping forms of the two, Rita was snuggled against Elladan's chest.
"We better let them rest" said Legolas "For our journey will be long and dangerous."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The sun was starting to rise when Aragorn, Halbarad and Elrohir showed up again. Halbarad left to sit with the other rangers and the other two decided to find the members of the fellowship. They were easily found as they could hear Gimli laughing from afar.
Noticing how tired Aragorn looked Legolas quickly offered him his seat and Aragorn told them he had looked into the palantir.
At first Gimli was astonished as even Gandalf feared to look into the stone but quickly relented when Aragorn explained to him that he was the rightful owner of the stone and he therefor had the right to use it. He explained what he had seen and the others agreed with him that they should make haste and go to Gondor.
Suddenly Aragorn looked around for Rita and a smile came to his lips as he found her lying in the arms of Elladan, who was holding her very tight to his chest.
"Though I do not wish to, I fear we must wake them, we must hurry." He stood up and gently shook Rita awake.
She groaned as she felt herself being shook and crawled closer to the warmth beside her and tried to go back to sleep. When she was shaken again she opened her eyes only to see Aragorn kneeling beside her.
"Too early" she mumbled "Wanna sleep" She tried to do just that but Aragorn pulled her up and on her feet and held her steady as she swayed.
After she had been pulled up Elladan awoke immediately when he could no longer feel the warmth of her body and blinked against the sunlight. He stretched and got up while saying good morning to all.
Rita glared at his back and Aragorn laughed when he heard her mumble. "How can he be this cheery, that is just wrong."
Luckily for her, Legolas handed her water skin and she drank the water and ate a piece of lembas. She felt herself starting to wake and rolled her shoulders as she tried to get rid of the knots in them, when the king called for everybody to mount their horses again.
Aragorn rode towards the king and spoke with him and Éomer and she could see that it was a heated conversation as they used wild movements. She leaned into Legolas who was sitting beside her, the others were going there own way and Elrohir had dragged his brother away.
"Hey, can you hear what they are saying?"
"It is impolite to listen to another's conversation." he countered.
"So? If I could hear what you can hear I would want to know what was being said." He gave her a disbelieving look. "Ok, I'm just curious, just tell me please." She begged and gave him a pout and he couldn't help but giving in.
He motioned her to be silent and she gave him a triumphant smile as he concentrated on what is being said.
"They are speaking of what rode to take. Aragorn fears we will not arrive in Gondor on time and therefor he will take the Path of the Dead. The king and Éomer disagree for they believe that road will bring nothing but death. Aragorn is fixed on going that way."
"See, now that wasn't so hard was it?" he smiled and shook his head at her behavior. "Legolas" she asked "What is the Path of the Dead?"
"It is a path that nobody can enter but the chosen one. The dead dwell there and I have to admit I know not much about it. Aragorn is pressed on taking this rode however and I will follow him where he will go."
"Yeah, like in the song."
Legolas looked up at this. "What song Rita, you have never told me of it."
Rita blushed "I said that out loud, I didn't mean to."
"Well you just did. Will you sing it for me?"
"Uhm. . . well. . . I'm not a good. . . " she gave in when Legolas pouted. She had to giggle at this, she was just given a piece of her own medicine.
"Ok it goes like this and don't start crying because it hurts your ears cause you asked for it got it?"
He held his hands up in surrender and she started the few lines she knew of the song.
"Where you lead, I will follow
Anywhere that you tell me to
If you need, you need me to be with you
I will follow where you lead
If you're out on the road
Feeling lonely, and so cold
All you have to do is call my name
And I'll be there on the next train
Where you lead, I will follow
Anywhere that you tell me to
If you need, you need me to be with you
I will follow where you lead "
Though she didn't have the most beautiful voice that was ever heard, her voice was steady and anything but false.
"That was great Rita, you are nowhere near at being as bad as you said."
Rita rolled her eyes. "Please, you're an elf and I know for a fact that the elves sing much better than us humans so don't flatter me."
Then she noticed Aragorn walk in their direction and stood up, placing her hand on his shoulder in a calming gesture.
"We will ride, my path lies before me and I have to take it. King Theoden will go his road and I will go mine with the Dúnedain and Gimli has already agreed to join me, as well as Legolas."
"I'm coming with you" said Rita "I am not being left behind with those characters, who by the way are very lucky I was able to calm Elladan down yesterday, ooh that reminds me." And she smacked Legolas on his arm.
"What on earth were you thinking saying that out loud while he was standing there, he was ready to kill some of the Rohirrim. Do you know how long it took to calm him down?"
The elf faked pain and shook his head, he decided it was wiser not to answer her.
Aragorn smiled at the two and left to collect all the men who would go with him. Merry looked sadly at him when he was told he couldn't come.
"You offered your duties to the King Merry" said Aragorn "I believe your destiny lies with him and the Riders of the Mark."
Rita began to get ready. She quickly brushed her hair and put it in a low braid and put her helm on her head. She strapped her arm-straps on and fastened them before she packed her bedroll away.
She was just finished when Elladan came to collect her and she sat behind him this time as they rode on, and not once did she look back at the Rohirrim who were staring after them.
A/N: Well, what do you think??? Tell me please.
Kiku: Hope you feel better soon, the flu sucks! Happy that this fic helps though. I have a plan to hook Haldir up with someone but that is still a little early.
Kukume: Glad you liked but I don't think it's all that healty to be so hooked to my fic. Well I updated soon because I wouldn't want you to go in withdrawal now would I?
Quiet One: Hope you catch up with this chapter soon, hope you like the reunion ;)
Sailorverystupid: *snatches hot chocolate and tickets* I love you right now. . . lalalala I'm going to Canada. *lol* Now seriously, no need to bribe me, I love to write this fic.
Chibi Chingo: Happy you like my fic but how exactly did I screw the plot of the book up? For starters Haldir doesn't die in the books so I decided to let him live, and Éomer was arrestewd in the book as well, only in the movie he was banished. I'm confused here! Oh and I know I use of instead of off a lot, blame it on English not being my first language.
Elvish princess: Hmmmm, communication problem between us. I meant to say don't kill me cause I wouldn't be able to update if I were dead. Sorry, my attempt to joke failed : ( And yes, there are major spoilers for RotK. I hope you will still read my fic though.
Musicgrl: I'm gonna check out your work later and I'm sure it doesn't suck!!!!!
Sugar-is-sweet: Nono, I don't think you're mean! I'm happy when you point these kind of things out, it means you're paying a lot of attention to what I'm writing. You always make sense to me ;) Glad you like the way she put that guy in his place.
Shinigami29: hey Audrey, happy you liked it so much.
Aurumlupi: I'm sorry, I updated again, forgive me????
Sindamellonwe: Thanks for the compliment, hope you will like this chapter as well.
Arwen-evenstar: I failed to talk my mom into going to TTT with me, she isn't in for sitting in a movie-theater for three hours. She said she would wait until it came on video, so I'll just either go by myself (not likely) ot wait for the release on video. Too bad it will take a very long time.
THEwriter Lioncub: Glad you liked, girl power rules!!!!!
Meggers: Sorry I made you cry ahain, but at least I gave you Kleenex right? What did your teacher do to make you so angry? I have a cold as well, so I know exactly how you're feeling ;)
DISCLAIMER: lalala not in the mood lalala
Rita jumped to her feet as Haldir did that as well. Both knew that the men who rode to Isengard had returned. Haldir let Rita run away, keeping a slow pace himself.
When she saw the riders return she immediately spotted Legolas and Gimli on their friend Arod. She recognized the faces of king Theoden and Éomer and then she saw Aragorn with Merry behind him. Suddenly she knew what was missing.
"Where is Gandalf?" she asked as the riders dismounted. She ran to Merry and asked him in an urgent tone. "Where is Pippin Merry? Where is he? He is with you right and unharmed?"
Neither of them noticed that they were the center of attention as they met again and Merry looked up at her with such a sad expression that Rita thought for sure the young hobbit had died, but he soon explained himself. "Gandalf took him to Minas Tirith. He looked into the palantir and Gandalf thought for it to be safer if Pippin came with him."
She could clearly see the sorrow for the loss of his companion and she hugged him tight. "I've been so worried about you, what on earth happened to you. We were sure you were dead until Gandalf told us otherwise, I was so afraid to loose another friend."
The hobbit wriggled out of her grasp and looked at the horn on her belt with wide eyes and tears spilled from them. "Boromir. . . " Merry croaked "He died bravely, he protected us and I feel guilty in a way." More tears made their way down his cheek.
Rita pulled him into a hug again while a tear escaped from her eye. "He died very bravely indeed Merry, but you shouldn't feel so guilty for it was his time. The Valar must have had their reasons for his death and we must believe he is in a better place now."
The two held on to each other as the others observed them. Legolas and Gimli remembered the time when the fellowship was still intact and Aragorn had a slight smile as Rita almost quoted what he had told her earlier.
Haldir and the other elves from Lothlorien stayed back, sensing that this was a private moment but the Rohirrim didn't seem to be troubled by this.
Curious to what was happening they neared to gape at the strange small boy (Merry was a small boy in their eyes) and the girl most shunned, for they did not trust her not even after the great battle of Helm's Deep.
Aragorn broke the spell. "I am happy you are well Rita, I was worried about you even if I left you in good care."
Suddenly remembering that she had been left behind Rita let go of Merry and approached Aragorn. The man looked at her as if he was expecting an attack and if she were honest she wanted to hit him for leaving her behind but Orophin's words still echoed in her head.
"I don't know whether to hit you or to hug you, you sneaky man. I want to hit you for leaving me behind but I can see the reason you did. I am just happy you returned unharmed." She gave him a hug and felt him give a sigh of relief as she did so.
Gimli's gruff voice boomed through the air. "Do not think it was easy to leave you lass, I hope these elves took good care of you. If they have not done so just say the word and I'll chop of some heads."
Haldir neared them as well. "The elves have taken care of her, Master Dwarf. We kept her safe from any danger." He shot a dark look at some of the Rohirrim as he said this.
Aragorn and Legolas exchanged a look. Rita lead Gimli and Merry away to get them some water and food. While they were looking at the retreating figures of the three the future king asked in Sindarin. "What happened?"
Haldir looked at the Rohirrim who now left them alone for the reason of their interest had departed as well. "She was attacked again. I wish more men were like you Aragorn, yet these men do not know how to treat a woman."
"What? She was unharmed?"
"Aye Aragorn, she defended herself very well. She hurt her hand when she hit the man" a slight smile appeared on the elf's face. "I believe she has broken his jaw."
Legolas grinned. "That is good, I had expected nothing less of her, she is a true warrior." The other men grinned as well and started to walk slowly to the direction of the keep where they could see Theoden was preparing his men for departure.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Rita brought Merry and Gimli to the elvish part of the keep and started to pack her bedroll as Merry told her the short version of what had happened to him and Pippin while they were captured. She was fascinated by the story about the Ents.
"So you are telling me that these. . . Ents are living trees and they attacked Isengard and defeated. I wish I had the chance to meat them, they sound truly wonderful and I have to thank them for taking care of you two rascals."
Merry played to be offended. "I am no rascal, you must have me mistaken for that Took. Besides I can tell stories about the pranks you two played in Rivendell and Lothlorien as well."
Holding her hands up in surrender Rita started to giggle. "You're right Merry, I won't breath another word."
Gimli just shook his head at their behavior and when Rita asked him he told her about Saruman. "I do not understand how a wizard that was once so wise and good could have turned to the darkness. When you heard his voice one would not believe him to be evil for his voice is gentle and kind. Yet the words he speaks are truey poisonous."
"And what happened next Gimli, what did Gandalf do to him?"
"He did nothing lass, he broke his staff and banished him from the order of wizards. After that he let him stay in his room, where he is now locked in as the Ents guard him."
The story was interrupted as Haldir shouted that they were leaving and all elves started to pack. Gimli and Merry turned to Rita for they didn't understand what had just been said.
"We're leaving." She said and the dwarf and the hobbit left to find the others while Rita helped the other elves pack.
She put some fresh bandages around some of the wounds and helped the wounded up. There was so much activity around her and all was done in silence but she wasn't disturbed by it. The elves had become her friends and she found that words were not always necessary for she started to understand their way of thinking.
After refilling all the water skins and distributing the rations of lembas the elves started to gather. Rita found Orophin who was still limping and she supported him as they slowly followed the others.
The Rohirrim had gathered as well and the king told them to ride to Dunharrow. Also he gave the order that all men should double with an elf so they would be able to make speed.
When one of the men mentioned that this might be to heavy for the horses Aragorn shook his head. "The elves are very light, the horses will not be hindered by them."
So the Rohirrim relented and soon all of the elves were behind one of the Rohirrim. Haldir was given a horse of his own by Theoden, as he was the leader of the elves.
Rita and Orophin were the last to arrive and Haldir quickly trotted towards them. "I am sorry brother, but I was busy gathering the elves and discussing things with Aragorn and the king. You will ride in front of me."
With the help of Rita Haldir was able to pull his brother on the horse. When she glanced around she saw that there was nobody left to ride with.
Behind Aragorn sat Merry and Legolas and Gimli rode together as well. The only one still free was Éomer, and Rita really didn't feel like riding with him.
She inspected the horse, it was a very strong one and was a beautiful shade of dark brown. "Haldir" she said "Do you think your horse might be able to carry another?"
The elf looked around and didn't answer her but just held out his hand. She grabbed it and was pulled behind him.
She held on to him as he made his way to the front and rode beside Legolas and Aragorn. The latter shook his head at the sight they made. He started to jest in Sindarin, for he knew Orophin was not good at speaking the common language.
"The king said to double, but this is getting out of hand. The poor horse will fall down at his burden."
Rita glared at him. "Are you calling me fat?"
The man gulped, he hadn't expected her to react like that. Then she did something very unexpected, she started to giggle. He looked at her confused and was waiting for her to explain.
"You should have" she laughed even harder "seen your face. You looked as if you feared I would hurt you."
Her laughter was contagious and they rode on in good spirit until they reached the point where the elves would part with them.
The Rohirrim and the (remainder of the) fellowship would go left to ride towards Dunharrow while the elves had to turn right to return to Lothlorien.
The entire convoy stopped and the elves started to get ready for their journey to the woods. The king decided all would be able to rest for a while and the Rohirrim dismounted as well.
Theoden held a speech in which he thanked the elves for their assistance and he bade them a good journey. Then he left to talk to Éomer and some other Rohirrim to discuss their next course of action. Soon only the elves and the members of the fellowship remained.
Aragorn and the others said their farewells and Rita looked at the elves sadly. "I'm going to walk with them for a bit." she told Aragorn and followed the elves who were already walking away.
Gimli tried to stop her but Legolas put his arm on the dwarf's shoulder to keep him from doing that. "She wants to say goodbye Gimli, let her do that in her own way." Finally the dwarf nodded and Legolas looked into the distance.
"Riders are approaching!" he exclaimed and this caught the attention of the Rohirrim.
Éomer stepped forwards as the cloaked figures neared and demanded to know what they were doing in Rohan.
"We are looking for Aragorn son of Arathorn, we heard he was dwelling in these lands. I am Halbarad of the Dúnedain."
Aragorn leaped forwards. "You have found him, Halbarad of all the joys this must be the greatest. What are you doing here?"
"I gathered as much of our kin when you summoned us, the two sons of Lord Elrond joined us as well for they wished to aid in this war."
"I summoned none, but nevertheless I am very happy to see you."
The Rohirrim were relieved that the company turned out to be friendly and Theoden commented that if these men were anything like Aragorn, they would be very helpful.
The riders of the company dismounted as well and they spoke with Aragorn. Legolas noticed Elladan looking around in search of Rita and saw that he started to panic when he could not find her. "She is well Elladan" he said "She is saying goodbye to her friends but she will return in some time."
Aragorn turned to his brother after he had hugged Elrohir. "I cannot say how much it pleases me to see you brother. I have missed you yet Rita missed you even more. She will be overjoyed to see you."
They talked but Elladan's eyes drifted around often.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Meanwhile Rita and the Lothlorien elves had been too far away to notice the arrival of the company of rangers and the two elves. After walking in silence for almost 15 minutes Haldir halted. "This is where we must part Rita, for you must return to the others."
She nodded and walked past the elves to say goodbye to all of them separately. Some nodded at her and some clasped her shoulder in a sign of respect and friendship and she returned their gestures.
Finally she reached the three that mattered most to her in this company. The three brothers stood together and Orophin was the first that hugged her.
"I will miss you Rita, you have saved my life though you are unwilling to admit this. I want you to have this." He handed her his arm-straps (you know the ones that Aragorn strapped on at the end of FotR)
Rita tried to give them back but he insisted she should have them. "I will not use them soon as my leg must heal first, you will need them more than I will." He helped her put them on her arms and hugged her once more.
Rumil was next and he put a helm on her head after he hugged her. Rita was surprised it fir her so well and at the weight of it. She had expected the helm to be much heavier.
The last one to turn to her was Haldir. He looked deep in her eyes before he clasped her shoulder. After that he took his cloak off and put it around Rita after unclasping hers. He fastened it with her broach, the one she was given by Lady Galadriel.
"Your cloak is torn and no longer to keep you warm during the chilly nights in Rohan and Gondor. I offer you mine as sign of my respect, you are a brave warrior and I would be proud to battle beside you again."
Rita was surprised at his words as he usually was an elf of little words, but that surprise was nothing compared to what she felt when he pulled her into a hug.
She hugged him right back and started to smile. "Well, your hugging skills are improving already, there might be hope for you yet." She let him go after hugging him tightly once more and she whispered softly in his ear. "Hurry back to us Haldir, we can use all the help we can get to protect Gondor."
He let her go and nodded. "Until next we meet my friend, until next we meet. Know you will always be welcome with the elves of Lothlorien."
Rita felt a lump in her throat as she watched the elves marching home, the wounded supported by those who weren't. She couldn't believe how close she had gotten to them in such a small period of time. *I seem to be thinking that a lot lately* she mused as she started to walk back.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Legolas was in conversation with Elladan when he noticed his companion's eyes widen and turned around to see Rita in the distance. She was wearing a red cloak now and a helm.
He smiled when he noticed that Elladan seemed to be hypnotized at the sight of her. Her helm and weapons shone in the sunlight and her cloak moved at every step she took. Suddenly she halted and stared in their direction.
Rita couldn't believe what she was seeing, actually she couldn't believe WHO she was seeing. She blinked a couple of times but the image of Elladan would not disappear. Then she realized that he was very real and started to race towards him as fast as she could.
This of course drew the attention of the others and Elrohir, Aragorn, Gimli and Merry walked over to stand with Legolas and Elladan.
The latter started to walk forwards and didn't have to wait long for Rita to reach him, she was running so fast one would think she was being chased by a band of orcs.
Finally she was close enough and she fell into his arms and he crushed her to his chest as he twirled her around. Her helm fell to the ground as he did this and he closed his eyes at the joy he felt to hold her again.
Her arms were clinging around his neck and she buried her face in the nape of his neck. "I missed you so much, Elladan, more than I could ever imagine."
He pulled back a little to be able to look in her eyes. "I missed you as well melamin, the past few months seemed like years." He was about to kiss her when Elrohir interrupted.
"Do not keep her all to yourself Elladan, I wish to say hello as well."
Reluctantly she was released and Rita gave Elrohir a quick hug. "Great timing Elrohir" she grumbled "You just ruined a perfectly romantic moment. Just you wait, I will do this to you as well when you haven't seen your love for months."
Then Elladan started to laugh. "You will not have to wait very long to do that melamin, for my brother has finally fallen head over feet with a beautiful maiden. He now knows the horror of being parted with the one you love."
A huge grin formed on her face. "Wait a minute, are you saying that Elrohir, Mr. if-love-makes-you-act-so-crazy-I-don't-wanna-fall-in-love-any- time-soon has fallen in love?" she turned to Elrohir who was shooting a glare at his brother. "Who is she?"
"Nobody" he answered.
Elladan chuckled. "I do not believe Atiel would like to called a nobody brother. I wonder what she would say if she heard that."
"She will not hear this."
"Who says she won't?" Elladan retorted and Rita chuckled at their bickering.
She hugged Elladan again. "Stop teasing him you bully, it's mean." Elladan pulled her close again and Rita closed her eyes as she took a deep breath, taking in as much of his sent as she could.
Meanwhile their friends looked at them with a smile on his face and Éomer approached them. "Who is he?" he asked.
It was Aragorn who answered him. "He is Elladan, son of Elrond and the love of Rita. She missed him very much while we were travelling."
King Theoden had joined as well. "This we can see, but we must ride again. I wish to ride until nightfall."
Aragorn had to agree and he told the Dúnedain to mount at the same time the Rohirrim were given the same order. He neared the couple as they seemed to be oblivious to what was going on around them. "We must ride on." He said and smiled when Elladan lead Rita to his horse, after she grabbed her helm that was lying on the ground, and put her in front of him, his arms encircling her waist.
The company rode on and Rita felt warm and safe in Ellandan's arms. She snuggled even closer and closed her eyes, intent to remember this feeling forever.
When night began to fall Theoden gave the order to rest and Elrohir and Halbarad joined Aragorn as he walked away. Gimli and Legolas sat down with Merry and were talking softly when Rita walked up, Elladan not far behind her.
"Is it ok I leave my stuff with you guys?" she asked.
"We will keep an eye on them." Promised Legolas and he watched as she unshouldered her pack and took of her helm and arm-straps. "It seems the elves of Lothlorien respect you very much Rita, for it is not common for them to part with their equipment."
She smiled at the memory. "Orophin insisted that I should take his arm- straps, Rumil put the helm on my head without asking and Haldir gave me his cloak with that look of his. You know, the do-as-I-say look." Rita sighed softly. "I'm gonna miss them, they're good friends. Now more than ever."
Then Merry noticed the bandage around her hand. "What happened to your hand Rita?"
The others looked at it as well, they hadn't noticed it yet either. Legolas narrowed his eyes. "Did this happen when you were attacked by one of the Rohirrim again?"
"How did you. . . " Rita's voice trailed off an she answered her own question. "Haldir told you huh? He was so totally overreacting. I mean I wasn't really attacked it was just the same guy that harassed me at Helm's Deep. He said some stuff and I got mad and hit him, thus hurting my hand. When Haldir and the others found out I was kind of worried, they were so angry."
Gimli frowned. "What exactly did this man say to make you so angry?"
Rita started to answer him but shut her mouth as she remembered the way these guys acted around her: very protective. Not to mention the fact that Elladan was behind her and no matter how much she disliked the man, she didn't want to see him dead.
"Well?" demanded the dwarf again.
"Nothing important Gimli, it's over now. I hung with the elves until you guys came back. I've had it with the Rohirrim." She then turned to Elladan and as soon as she noticed the flame of anger in his eyes she pulled him along, away from all the men.
She reached a rather secluded area that was hidden behind some huge boulders and she decided that this was a good place to talk.
"Ok Elladan, right now you need to calm down."
"Calm? You were attacked and you expect me to be calm?"
"Yes, I'm ok. That's the most important thing. Besides, it's not as if I was unprotected, I had a whole army of elves to watch my back. Haldir first in line. He was so mad, you should have seen him."
Elladan stared in her eyes. "You seem to be close to Haldir and his brothers."
"Yeah, I like them, they're very good friends."
"I am happy you are safe Rita, you cannot begin to imagine the fear I felt for you. This is part of the reason I joined the rangers once they were summoned, I could not bear to stay away from you anymore."
Rita wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him close. "I missed you so very much Elladan, the way you looked and smelled and. . . "
"And what?" he asked.
Her voice was hoarse as she answered him. "The way you tasted."
She didn't get an answer because he pressed his lips to hers immediately. Rita sighed when she felt his tong part her lips and take a hold of her mouth. She returned the kiss with the same passion and felt herself being pushed against one of the boulders.
When the need for air became too great she broke apart from the kiss and took a large breath and hugged him as tight as she could.
He placed soft kisses on her cheek and neck and refused to let her go. She wanted more than those tiny kisses and this time it was her who initiated the kiss.
She pulled his head towards hers and tangled her hands in his hair as she did this. With her tong she traced the contours of his lips and she smiled when he opened his mouth to allow her to enter. She decided to torture him for a bit and started to suck on his bottom lip.
He moaned slightly as she did this and she gave in to his unspoken wish and slipped her tong in his mouth, touching his with her own. She had almost forgotten the tingles his kisses gave her but now she was reminded of them again as she felt butterflies in her stomach and shivers going down her spine.
Rita could feel him tremble as she caressed his shoulders and neck and noticed she was shaking as well. It was as if her entire soul was put into the kiss and she felt like she could sense every emotion Elladan was feeling: love, desire, longing and desperation. She could only imagine what he might feel and it felt very good.
They broke apart again and this time they just held on tight until Elladan decided they should head back to get some rest. They walked hand in hand to where her pack was and she spread her bedroll out and laid on it and Elladan lay behind her and they fell asleep instantly.
Legolas raised his eyebrows at Gimli. "Do you think they even noticed us?" he asked the dwarf, but Gimli just started to laugh.
"Please, they only had eyes for each other." They studied the sleeping forms of the two, Rita was snuggled against Elladan's chest.
"We better let them rest" said Legolas "For our journey will be long and dangerous."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The sun was starting to rise when Aragorn, Halbarad and Elrohir showed up again. Halbarad left to sit with the other rangers and the other two decided to find the members of the fellowship. They were easily found as they could hear Gimli laughing from afar.
Noticing how tired Aragorn looked Legolas quickly offered him his seat and Aragorn told them he had looked into the palantir.
At first Gimli was astonished as even Gandalf feared to look into the stone but quickly relented when Aragorn explained to him that he was the rightful owner of the stone and he therefor had the right to use it. He explained what he had seen and the others agreed with him that they should make haste and go to Gondor.
Suddenly Aragorn looked around for Rita and a smile came to his lips as he found her lying in the arms of Elladan, who was holding her very tight to his chest.
"Though I do not wish to, I fear we must wake them, we must hurry." He stood up and gently shook Rita awake.
She groaned as she felt herself being shook and crawled closer to the warmth beside her and tried to go back to sleep. When she was shaken again she opened her eyes only to see Aragorn kneeling beside her.
"Too early" she mumbled "Wanna sleep" She tried to do just that but Aragorn pulled her up and on her feet and held her steady as she swayed.
After she had been pulled up Elladan awoke immediately when he could no longer feel the warmth of her body and blinked against the sunlight. He stretched and got up while saying good morning to all.
Rita glared at his back and Aragorn laughed when he heard her mumble. "How can he be this cheery, that is just wrong."
Luckily for her, Legolas handed her water skin and she drank the water and ate a piece of lembas. She felt herself starting to wake and rolled her shoulders as she tried to get rid of the knots in them, when the king called for everybody to mount their horses again.
Aragorn rode towards the king and spoke with him and Éomer and she could see that it was a heated conversation as they used wild movements. She leaned into Legolas who was sitting beside her, the others were going there own way and Elrohir had dragged his brother away.
"Hey, can you hear what they are saying?"
"It is impolite to listen to another's conversation." he countered.
"So? If I could hear what you can hear I would want to know what was being said." He gave her a disbelieving look. "Ok, I'm just curious, just tell me please." She begged and gave him a pout and he couldn't help but giving in.
He motioned her to be silent and she gave him a triumphant smile as he concentrated on what is being said.
"They are speaking of what rode to take. Aragorn fears we will not arrive in Gondor on time and therefor he will take the Path of the Dead. The king and Éomer disagree for they believe that road will bring nothing but death. Aragorn is fixed on going that way."
"See, now that wasn't so hard was it?" he smiled and shook his head at her behavior. "Legolas" she asked "What is the Path of the Dead?"
"It is a path that nobody can enter but the chosen one. The dead dwell there and I have to admit I know not much about it. Aragorn is pressed on taking this rode however and I will follow him where he will go."
"Yeah, like in the song."
Legolas looked up at this. "What song Rita, you have never told me of it."
Rita blushed "I said that out loud, I didn't mean to."
"Well you just did. Will you sing it for me?"
"Uhm. . . well. . . I'm not a good. . . " she gave in when Legolas pouted. She had to giggle at this, she was just given a piece of her own medicine.
"Ok it goes like this and don't start crying because it hurts your ears cause you asked for it got it?"
He held his hands up in surrender and she started the few lines she knew of the song.
"Where you lead, I will follow
Anywhere that you tell me to
If you need, you need me to be with you
I will follow where you lead
If you're out on the road
Feeling lonely, and so cold
All you have to do is call my name
And I'll be there on the next train
Where you lead, I will follow
Anywhere that you tell me to
If you need, you need me to be with you
I will follow where you lead "
Though she didn't have the most beautiful voice that was ever heard, her voice was steady and anything but false.
"That was great Rita, you are nowhere near at being as bad as you said."
Rita rolled her eyes. "Please, you're an elf and I know for a fact that the elves sing much better than us humans so don't flatter me."
Then she noticed Aragorn walk in their direction and stood up, placing her hand on his shoulder in a calming gesture.
"We will ride, my path lies before me and I have to take it. King Theoden will go his road and I will go mine with the Dúnedain and Gimli has already agreed to join me, as well as Legolas."
"I'm coming with you" said Rita "I am not being left behind with those characters, who by the way are very lucky I was able to calm Elladan down yesterday, ooh that reminds me." And she smacked Legolas on his arm.
"What on earth were you thinking saying that out loud while he was standing there, he was ready to kill some of the Rohirrim. Do you know how long it took to calm him down?"
The elf faked pain and shook his head, he decided it was wiser not to answer her.
Aragorn smiled at the two and left to collect all the men who would go with him. Merry looked sadly at him when he was told he couldn't come.
"You offered your duties to the King Merry" said Aragorn "I believe your destiny lies with him and the Riders of the Mark."
Rita began to get ready. She quickly brushed her hair and put it in a low braid and put her helm on her head. She strapped her arm-straps on and fastened them before she packed her bedroll away.
She was just finished when Elladan came to collect her and she sat behind him this time as they rode on, and not once did she look back at the Rohirrim who were staring after them.
A/N: Well, what do you think??? Tell me please.