Well I'm back! I don't know what you guys did but my muse was so scared she
(yep it's a she) returned to me. *lol*
A/N: Ok so this is no normal A/N but just read ok. Have you guys read Aislin's fic Fallen??? NO. . . DO IT NOW!!! It's a fic about Elladan and a girl and. . . well just read it. It is a little mary suish but if you can look past that you'll enjoy I promise. Poor Aislin, 6 chapters and only I reviewed. Please read it, it would make me very happy!
Lucy: Here it is, per your request, the next chapter.
Musicgrl: Happy birthday!! Or was that yesterday?? Ah, anyway this chapter is now dedicated to you as a present, do you like??
LanierShazar: I know, I can't see Rita opening up to anyone but Haldir either. Hope you'll like this chapter as well.
MaverickGirl: Yeah, no more battle for Rita. . . I think. Depends on what my muse tells me but I see no serious battles in the near future.
D-Chan: Ended it at an evil spot?? It was not evil to stop there was it, I mean it wasn't a cliffhanger. . . or was it??? Anyway, good luck with the exchange student and the comic, is it good???
Aislin: Patience my dear, Haldir will find a love interest but not right now. He is way too busy playing Captain and everything. And keep on working on your fic, I still cannot believe I am the only one who reviewed your fic cause it's great. As you see I promoted your fic, I like it so I hope you'll get more reviews so you find your muse again.
Lady of Legolas: You scared my muse so bad she flew right back to me, thanks!
MG: Yep, lots of books for me. I'm a bookworm I have to admit. I just love to read, and I wanted those books for almost a year now so it was a very early present to me. Oh, and Rita doesn't miss her home, she has nothing left there remember. And on how she got in Middle Earth. Well, as soon as I find out you guys will find out, I haven't found a solution for that yet.
Dancingfae: Hmmm, you gave me an idea, maybe I'll have Rita find Leia, not sure about that though. And aaah you just gave me another idea (THANK YOU) but I'm not gonna tell what that is, wouldn't want to ruin the surprise.
The Lady Sorcha of Sevenwaters: Thanks for the encouraging words and I hope you like this chapter as well.
Arwen-evenstar: I can't wait to see where I'm going with this fic either, I just write what comes to mind so I'll never know what's going to happen.
Sailorverystupid: I'm going, I'm going. I'll never give up on you guys, I like the fic way to much and the writing is fun to do.
Sugar-is-sweet: Yeah I'm just a lean mean typing machine *lol* You know I'm crazy right, just so you know. Anyway happy to see you're back, I missed your reviews. ;)
Passion Lover: Yep, counterpart Haldir to the rescue. . . ;) Well my muse came back so enjoy the chapter.
Kate: Ooooh, so it's a band, ok thanks for explaining. And I never watched Dude where's my car, it's not my kind of movie so I didn't recognize the word shibby.
Aurumlupi: I live to keep you in suspense *laughs evil laugh* Don't worry, I decided not to kill Rita, she's grown on me.
Elvish princess: Oh, wow, I am sorry about that girl. How old was she?? I hate it when people die, especially younger people, it makes me feel all sad and depressed. I mean, life can be over in a second if you think about it.
Guardian Storm Demon: You really think I got the entire thing right?? I hope you don't speak from experience since it is nothing that I would wish on anyone, not even my worst enemy. Well, just read the chapter and I hope you'll like.
Blahblah: Thanks for the compliments you made me all giggly and happy. Congrats on your test, I was soooo bad in Science. Good luck on your tests!!!!!
Corinna: Why are you excusing yourself for writing a long review? I love long reviews!!! Anyway, I can see your point on the entire girl dropping in ME thing so I'm doubly happy that you liek my fic.
Shinigami29: I know you know who I am, besides my reviews aren't all that long all the time either so don't bother with it. Anyway wrote you an email.
DISCLAIMER: Lalalala, don't want to lalalala, don't care about it any longer lalalala
It had been a week since Rita and Haldir talked and though it was not noticed by anyone but Haldir, Rita began to loosen up.
During the day she would sit and talk with her friends and the soldiers. She also spent time with Elladan of course and it had been accepted by all that the two slept in the same room. It was known that nothing 'special' happened during the night anyway, the two would just cuddle up and sleep.
But before Rita would go to sleep she would slip out on the balcony and stare at the sky until Haldir joined her. It was becoming a regular thing.
While on the balcony Rita would tell Haldir about some stuff about her past, mostly about things she never told a soul, like the adventure with the fire (A/N: remember chapter 36)
He would listen to everything she said, no commenting on anything and that made Rita feel better than if he had reacted all angry and offended.
This was the reason she wouldn't tell anyone else about her past. The guys were already so angry about the things that had happened to her, she didn't want to increase this.
In return for listening Rita would listen to Haldir as well as he would tell her about the troubles he had while raising his brothers. And some of those stories were really funny.
All in all, the two grew closer than they were, which didn't remain unnoticed by anyone. They seemed to be able to communicate with just a look and were even able to finish each other's sentences. Elladan noticed as well.
When he asked her about it Rita just smiled and said that he had nothing to worry about. Her direct words were these.
"You're not jealous, are you? You have nothing to worry about. You're the one I love and Haldir is my friend, my best friend. We talk and joke and we're close, but you will always hold my heart in your hands. I love you Elladan. . . besides, I don't fall for blondes, brunets are more my style."
Elladan couldn't help but chuckle and kiss her senseless for a few minutes until they went to sleep.
Then the thing happened what all had been hoping for. Frodo and Sam finally woke after keeping everyone in suspense by staying in a coma.
Rita had visited the two hobbits at least once a day and had to force Aragorn to get something to eat sometimes, he was at the brave hobbit's side almost all the time.
It was Gandalf himself who had delivered the news and after a few hours a huge ceremony was being held in the honor of the two.
Rita smiled as they walked in and began to blush at all the praise being sent to them. Yet Rita could see how much weight they both lost and recognized the haunting look in Frodo's eyes. She vowed to have a long conversation with him.
After Frodo and Sam found out Aragorn was king, a minstrel began to sing the tale about Frodo and his quest and everyone cried and laughed.
She felt nothing but pride as she looked around her, watching the men around her. they did it, they all did it. Elves, men, a dwarf, two hobbits and the especially efforts of two very strong hobbits, defeated Sauron. After the singing there was eating and that went by in a blur.
Suddenly it was all over and Rita gave Elladan a small kiss before she started to walk in the direction of Frodo and Sam.
The two were chatting with Merry (A/N: Ok usually I hate interrupting my fic but this bothers me. In LotR Merry seemes to show up in Ithilien while he should be in the House of Healing, ideas anyone??) and Pippin and Rita listened in before making herself known. "Would it be too much to ask a hug from the two heroes, or. . . "
She was interrupted by two pair of arms engulfing her and she took a few steps back in order not to fall over with the force the two threw themselves at her.
"Rita" Frodo exclaimed "We didn't see you, how are you, are you doing well, oh it's wonderful to see you, I really missed you as did Sam I believe."
Sam agreed. "Indeed I did Mr. Frodo, I truly did Lady Rita. I never knew how much the fellowship meant to me until we had to part from it."
A chuckle was heard behind them and as the three turned around they saw Legolas and Gimli standing there beside the two other hobbits.
"I cannot believe you still call her Lady Rita Sam" said Merry.
Pippin teased him as well. "And you still call Frodo Mr. Surely you call him by his name now."
"Hey leave Sam alone, if he wants to he can call me Lady Rita but he's the only one who can do that you hear me!" Rita pointed her finger at Pippin who was about to open his mouth to say something. "No I want to hear about your journey from you and not some minstrel."
All agreed and they spent the rest of the day talking and changing stories. Frodo and Sam were amazed at the stories about the Ents and especially the adventures of Rita and her battles.
Then Gimli pointed out that three of the four hobbits should be resting since they were injured so the company broke up and spread out. Rita slipped on her balcony again and saw Haldir already sitting there.
"Hey Yoda" she said "How are you this fine day?" Rita called Haldir Yoda from time to time, and he stopped asking what it meant since she didn't answer him anyway.
Haldir smiled as he saw her in such a good mood. "I am fine Rita and I believe I can say the same about you."
She nodded and the two chatted about happy stuff for a few minutes until Rita yawned and Haldir told her to get some sleep.
When she got to her room Elladan was already asleep so she just snuggled close until sleep overtook her as well.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
When Frodo and Sam had regained their strength, the entire army made their way back to the White City of Gondor.
For the occasion Rita wore her armor again, the dents still clearly visible, while she sat behind a rider. She never sat with one person the entire time, sometimes she could be found Haldir or Elladan, other times behind a soldier from Gondor and sometimes she was walking with the rest.
Frodo and Sam sat behind Aragorn and Merry and Pippin were with Gandalf. They were walking at a leisurely pace since the threat of danger was over.
The day before, the last band of orcs that could be found was destroyed. Though it was believed not all orcs had been killed, since there were still those who hid in Moria and in the deep of Mount Doom, there weren't enough left to cause serious trouble.
Finally, the reached the city and once again Rita gasped at the beauty of the city. Sure there was a lot of damage and it was still a mess, but the tower, the white pearl of Minas Tirith, still shone in the sunlight.
She smiled when Aragorn motioned for her to blow the horn and did just what he asked. She had jumped off Asfaloth (she had been riding with Glorfindel at that time) and blew the horn.
When the booming sound was heard as it echoed through the city, a mob of people started to gather at the gates. Faramir emerged from the mass and started to talk.
What happened next was a blur to Rita. All she knew was that Aragorn was crowned as King Elessar and that he never looked more powerful or beautiful. As Frodo put the crown on his head and he stood up straight he glanced at her and gave her a wink.
Her answer was a huge smile and then they were taken into the city and there hundreds and hundreds of people met them.
Somehow Rita was separated from the rest as she was dragged to meet one family after the other. And every time she was treated with such respect that it shocked Rita.
She, who had very little experience with being treated like this, was now treated as though she were of royal blood.
The next day Faramir explained to her that to the people of Gondor she WAS royalty since she was not only the adopted sister of Boromir, but also very close to the king. There had been some kind of openingdance that evening, before dinner, and Aragorn had insisted on Rita dancing with him. It was some sort of tradition or something.
Now dancing wasn't something she was good at but both her and Aragorn had survived, and she hadn't even stepped on his feet once.
Something she loved was that Éowyn had dragged her to a room (a big one) and helped her clean up. The dirt was still on her skin and her hair was a mess to say at least.
Éowyn washed her hair as Rita soaked in the tub and the two spent hours just talking about battle and also about Éowyn's newfound love for Faramir.
For the first time in weeks Rita was able to get dressed in a clean shirt and pants. She had no dresses but Éowyn told her a tailor could make some if she wished it.
Since she knew it was expected of her Rita ordered two dresses, both in blue. The tailor had been stunned, most girls needed more than two dresses. But Rita pointed out she was quite happy with her pants and shirts so she would only wear a dress at an official dinner.
The days flew by and Rita was amazed at Aragorn's wisdom as a king. He was so busy as of late, conversing with the people, playing judge and also negotiating with his advisors.
Especially that last thing annoyed him to no end. Most of the advisors were old men who hadn't been in battle for a very long time, if they had ever been in battle that is.
They would argue with each other over the most silly subjects like whether or not to have a dance the next week. What also annoyed Aragorn was the fact he now had guards around him all the time; he who had been alone for most of his life could now never find a moment of solitary.
It was Rita who saved him from insanity one early morning when she woke him by throwing rocks at his window. When he looked outside he was surprised to see her there. She was holding the reins of both his horse and those of Asfaloth.
"What are you doing?" he asked not speaking too loud in order not to alert his guards.
She just grinned at him. "Saving you from going mad, now are you coming or what?"
He only took two minutes to get dressed in his 'normal' attire instead of the robes he was forced to wear as king. Then he climbed out of the window and made his way down. He had his sword with him, as well as a dagger in his boot.
Rita grinned when she saw this. *You can take the king out of the ranger but never the ranger out of the king* she thought while he was coming down.
When he reached her she had already climbed on top of Asfaloth and it only took Aragorn a few seconds to mount as well.
"Good morning" he said, in a much cheerier tone than he had had the last few days.
"Morning, now you're here lets go before they (meaning the guards) find out you're gone and start to look for you."
She forced herself not to chuckle as a look of horror crossed his face and he immediately spurred off, leaving her in the dust.
Of course she didn't give up that easily and she followed him in a gallop. "Noro Lim Asfaloth" she whispered to the grand steed and he sped up until he finally reached Aragorn's horse.
After racing past some trees the two slowed down and started to make their way back to the city at a much slower pace.
"I can't thank you enough for doing this Rita, I really was loosing my mind. I knew being king would have responsibilities but I had never imagined it to be so. . . so. . . "
"So boring?" Rita finished and chuckled when he nodded his head. "Well I guess that's the price for being king."
Aragorn sighed. "I know it is yet I find it a very hard task to pay attention to what my advisors are talking about, harder than any battle let me tell you that."
"That bunch of old men, no wonder you're bored. I mean one off them talked to me the other day, he was trying to tell me how it was not proper for a lady to walk around in pants. Oh and he actually listed a list of activities that WOULD be proper for a lady, knitting and sewing were on the top of his list." She snorted when she said this and Aragorn started to laugh as well.
"What I'm trying to say" said Rita "Is that you should find new advisors, men who are more. . . up to date so to speak. Men who you can trust and who have an idea about what battle is like. Take Eminor for example, he could be a fine advisor and so could Edrahir and Biron for that matter. Just start to surround yourself with new faces and you'll be fine."
A silence hung between them since Aragorn was thinking very hard. "Once again I am amazed at your wisdom Rita, do you know I spent hours pondering about a solution and never thought of anything that simple before."
They had reached the stables at that time and they dismounted, though neither of them were happy the ride was over. Rita had missed Aragorn, he had been so busy lately they hadn't been able to spend a lot of time together.
"You know what, I don't see your guards running around in panic yet so you think there'll be some time to spar. I feel rusty and it has been a long time since we sparred, Rohan was the last time we did that last."
"So eager to loose again are we?" Aragorn asked and he grinned when he saw her frown.
The two walked to the training part of the palace and drew their swords. They started to circle each other and both wore a happy look on their face.
Finally Rita was the first one to attack but she found her block easily deflected. The Aragorn struck and she was able to block his attack as well. Soon the two found themselves in a heated sparring session.
They were laughing and joking while fighting and neither paid attention to anything but the next blow. So they didn't see the audience that had started to form around them.
The first ones to arrive were some elves who had heard the noise, some guards of Gondor with them. When they saw it was just a game instead of danger they put their weapons away but they were entranced by the way Aragorn and Rita were fighting, it almost seemed like dancing.
From then on people just came to see what was holding the attention of the ones that were watching. When Aragorn eventually defeated Rita (It's not like she could ever defeat him!!!!) applause was heard and the two finally became aware of the people around them.
Rita just formed 'Oh' with her mouth and Aragorn grinned. He then grabbed her hand and bowed for the crowd, pulling Rita along with him.
The people laughed at their king's behavior, it was nice to be able to laugh after such dark times. The crowd began to disappear and soon only Legolas, Gimli and the twins remained. Where the rest of the fellowship was a mystery, though Rita suspected them to be at breakfast.
They were talking amongst each other, Rita was being complimented on her skill with the sword and Aragorn was teased with his un-kingly behavior. Then one of the advisors approached.
If you want to know what and advisor was like, imagine a very old, very wrinkly man (like Theoden in TTT) who had a look of disdain in his eyes and his lips pursed.
"It is not wise Milord to leave the castle unguarded, especially not without proper protection." He shot Rita a look that clearly stated he didn't think highly of her and Rita recognized him as the man who had tried to lecture her about 'proper behavior for a Lady'. She started to talk before Aragorn had a chance to open his mouth.
"He survived in the wild for years and led the army to victory against SAURON for crying out loud, he can protect himself. Besides, the two of us would have been able to deal with any kind of trouble sent our way."
The advisor scowled, making his wrinkly face even wrinklier. "King Elessar is a man of power now, it is our duty to protect him. And to you my king I wish to warn you for this kind of behavior like you expressed earlier. The people must respect your power and by acting like a young boy you do not accomplish that. You are king now and no longer a ranger." The last word came out like it was something unpleasant.
All were quiet as realization of what had just happened sunk in. Rita didn't believe it. *He just scolded Aragorn, the man actually has the nerve to lecture a king*
"I believe it is best if you retire Lord Omahir." Aragorn's voice had turned cold. "For if you as an advisor cannot see that even a king, especially a king, must remain human, I do not think there is a future left for you in my court."
Omahir tried to interrupt but Aragorn was on a role. "Furthermore I want you to call a meeting of all advisors as your last act as advisor. It is time for some changes and today is the perfect day to start. You are dismissed."
With that he turned around and grabbed the towel that was being held out by Legolas and started to dry his face from the sweat that was still on it.
For Omahir there was no other option than walking away. When he was out of sight Rita let out a whoop and jumped on Aragorn's back. At her sudden weight on his back he stumbled and the two ended up on the ground, which made everybody laugh.
"You sure showed him Aragorn, he has some nerve, scolding a king as if he's a kid."
Elrohir added to the conversation as well. "To think that you are as old as he is, if not older."
Aragorn leaped up and dusted the dust of his pants. "If I ever act like him, just kill me and have it over with I beg of you brother. Now I think it's best I make myself more 'presentable'. I have an important meeting to attend."
And he was off, back straight and in a confident stride. He had a job to do.
A/N: Well that's it for today, I hope I'll be able to update again tomorrow. Just let me know what you think, was this part too rushed or did you like it? I thought it was taking too much time in Ithilien so I had the timeloop, well was it crap or what??????
A/N: Ok so this is no normal A/N but just read ok. Have you guys read Aislin's fic Fallen??? NO. . . DO IT NOW!!! It's a fic about Elladan and a girl and. . . well just read it. It is a little mary suish but if you can look past that you'll enjoy I promise. Poor Aislin, 6 chapters and only I reviewed. Please read it, it would make me very happy!
Lucy: Here it is, per your request, the next chapter.
Musicgrl: Happy birthday!! Or was that yesterday?? Ah, anyway this chapter is now dedicated to you as a present, do you like??
LanierShazar: I know, I can't see Rita opening up to anyone but Haldir either. Hope you'll like this chapter as well.
MaverickGirl: Yeah, no more battle for Rita. . . I think. Depends on what my muse tells me but I see no serious battles in the near future.
D-Chan: Ended it at an evil spot?? It was not evil to stop there was it, I mean it wasn't a cliffhanger. . . or was it??? Anyway, good luck with the exchange student and the comic, is it good???
Aislin: Patience my dear, Haldir will find a love interest but not right now. He is way too busy playing Captain and everything. And keep on working on your fic, I still cannot believe I am the only one who reviewed your fic cause it's great. As you see I promoted your fic, I like it so I hope you'll get more reviews so you find your muse again.
Lady of Legolas: You scared my muse so bad she flew right back to me, thanks!
MG: Yep, lots of books for me. I'm a bookworm I have to admit. I just love to read, and I wanted those books for almost a year now so it was a very early present to me. Oh, and Rita doesn't miss her home, she has nothing left there remember. And on how she got in Middle Earth. Well, as soon as I find out you guys will find out, I haven't found a solution for that yet.
Dancingfae: Hmmm, you gave me an idea, maybe I'll have Rita find Leia, not sure about that though. And aaah you just gave me another idea (THANK YOU) but I'm not gonna tell what that is, wouldn't want to ruin the surprise.
The Lady Sorcha of Sevenwaters: Thanks for the encouraging words and I hope you like this chapter as well.
Arwen-evenstar: I can't wait to see where I'm going with this fic either, I just write what comes to mind so I'll never know what's going to happen.
Sailorverystupid: I'm going, I'm going. I'll never give up on you guys, I like the fic way to much and the writing is fun to do.
Sugar-is-sweet: Yeah I'm just a lean mean typing machine *lol* You know I'm crazy right, just so you know. Anyway happy to see you're back, I missed your reviews. ;)
Passion Lover: Yep, counterpart Haldir to the rescue. . . ;) Well my muse came back so enjoy the chapter.
Kate: Ooooh, so it's a band, ok thanks for explaining. And I never watched Dude where's my car, it's not my kind of movie so I didn't recognize the word shibby.
Aurumlupi: I live to keep you in suspense *laughs evil laugh* Don't worry, I decided not to kill Rita, she's grown on me.
Elvish princess: Oh, wow, I am sorry about that girl. How old was she?? I hate it when people die, especially younger people, it makes me feel all sad and depressed. I mean, life can be over in a second if you think about it.
Guardian Storm Demon: You really think I got the entire thing right?? I hope you don't speak from experience since it is nothing that I would wish on anyone, not even my worst enemy. Well, just read the chapter and I hope you'll like.
Blahblah: Thanks for the compliments you made me all giggly and happy. Congrats on your test, I was soooo bad in Science. Good luck on your tests!!!!!
Corinna: Why are you excusing yourself for writing a long review? I love long reviews!!! Anyway, I can see your point on the entire girl dropping in ME thing so I'm doubly happy that you liek my fic.
Shinigami29: I know you know who I am, besides my reviews aren't all that long all the time either so don't bother with it. Anyway wrote you an email.
DISCLAIMER: Lalalala, don't want to lalalala, don't care about it any longer lalalala
It had been a week since Rita and Haldir talked and though it was not noticed by anyone but Haldir, Rita began to loosen up.
During the day she would sit and talk with her friends and the soldiers. She also spent time with Elladan of course and it had been accepted by all that the two slept in the same room. It was known that nothing 'special' happened during the night anyway, the two would just cuddle up and sleep.
But before Rita would go to sleep she would slip out on the balcony and stare at the sky until Haldir joined her. It was becoming a regular thing.
While on the balcony Rita would tell Haldir about some stuff about her past, mostly about things she never told a soul, like the adventure with the fire (A/N: remember chapter 36)
He would listen to everything she said, no commenting on anything and that made Rita feel better than if he had reacted all angry and offended.
This was the reason she wouldn't tell anyone else about her past. The guys were already so angry about the things that had happened to her, she didn't want to increase this.
In return for listening Rita would listen to Haldir as well as he would tell her about the troubles he had while raising his brothers. And some of those stories were really funny.
All in all, the two grew closer than they were, which didn't remain unnoticed by anyone. They seemed to be able to communicate with just a look and were even able to finish each other's sentences. Elladan noticed as well.
When he asked her about it Rita just smiled and said that he had nothing to worry about. Her direct words were these.
"You're not jealous, are you? You have nothing to worry about. You're the one I love and Haldir is my friend, my best friend. We talk and joke and we're close, but you will always hold my heart in your hands. I love you Elladan. . . besides, I don't fall for blondes, brunets are more my style."
Elladan couldn't help but chuckle and kiss her senseless for a few minutes until they went to sleep.
Then the thing happened what all had been hoping for. Frodo and Sam finally woke after keeping everyone in suspense by staying in a coma.
Rita had visited the two hobbits at least once a day and had to force Aragorn to get something to eat sometimes, he was at the brave hobbit's side almost all the time.
It was Gandalf himself who had delivered the news and after a few hours a huge ceremony was being held in the honor of the two.
Rita smiled as they walked in and began to blush at all the praise being sent to them. Yet Rita could see how much weight they both lost and recognized the haunting look in Frodo's eyes. She vowed to have a long conversation with him.
After Frodo and Sam found out Aragorn was king, a minstrel began to sing the tale about Frodo and his quest and everyone cried and laughed.
She felt nothing but pride as she looked around her, watching the men around her. they did it, they all did it. Elves, men, a dwarf, two hobbits and the especially efforts of two very strong hobbits, defeated Sauron. After the singing there was eating and that went by in a blur.
Suddenly it was all over and Rita gave Elladan a small kiss before she started to walk in the direction of Frodo and Sam.
The two were chatting with Merry (A/N: Ok usually I hate interrupting my fic but this bothers me. In LotR Merry seemes to show up in Ithilien while he should be in the House of Healing, ideas anyone??) and Pippin and Rita listened in before making herself known. "Would it be too much to ask a hug from the two heroes, or. . . "
She was interrupted by two pair of arms engulfing her and she took a few steps back in order not to fall over with the force the two threw themselves at her.
"Rita" Frodo exclaimed "We didn't see you, how are you, are you doing well, oh it's wonderful to see you, I really missed you as did Sam I believe."
Sam agreed. "Indeed I did Mr. Frodo, I truly did Lady Rita. I never knew how much the fellowship meant to me until we had to part from it."
A chuckle was heard behind them and as the three turned around they saw Legolas and Gimli standing there beside the two other hobbits.
"I cannot believe you still call her Lady Rita Sam" said Merry.
Pippin teased him as well. "And you still call Frodo Mr. Surely you call him by his name now."
"Hey leave Sam alone, if he wants to he can call me Lady Rita but he's the only one who can do that you hear me!" Rita pointed her finger at Pippin who was about to open his mouth to say something. "No I want to hear about your journey from you and not some minstrel."
All agreed and they spent the rest of the day talking and changing stories. Frodo and Sam were amazed at the stories about the Ents and especially the adventures of Rita and her battles.
Then Gimli pointed out that three of the four hobbits should be resting since they were injured so the company broke up and spread out. Rita slipped on her balcony again and saw Haldir already sitting there.
"Hey Yoda" she said "How are you this fine day?" Rita called Haldir Yoda from time to time, and he stopped asking what it meant since she didn't answer him anyway.
Haldir smiled as he saw her in such a good mood. "I am fine Rita and I believe I can say the same about you."
She nodded and the two chatted about happy stuff for a few minutes until Rita yawned and Haldir told her to get some sleep.
When she got to her room Elladan was already asleep so she just snuggled close until sleep overtook her as well.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
When Frodo and Sam had regained their strength, the entire army made their way back to the White City of Gondor.
For the occasion Rita wore her armor again, the dents still clearly visible, while she sat behind a rider. She never sat with one person the entire time, sometimes she could be found Haldir or Elladan, other times behind a soldier from Gondor and sometimes she was walking with the rest.
Frodo and Sam sat behind Aragorn and Merry and Pippin were with Gandalf. They were walking at a leisurely pace since the threat of danger was over.
The day before, the last band of orcs that could be found was destroyed. Though it was believed not all orcs had been killed, since there were still those who hid in Moria and in the deep of Mount Doom, there weren't enough left to cause serious trouble.
Finally, the reached the city and once again Rita gasped at the beauty of the city. Sure there was a lot of damage and it was still a mess, but the tower, the white pearl of Minas Tirith, still shone in the sunlight.
She smiled when Aragorn motioned for her to blow the horn and did just what he asked. She had jumped off Asfaloth (she had been riding with Glorfindel at that time) and blew the horn.
When the booming sound was heard as it echoed through the city, a mob of people started to gather at the gates. Faramir emerged from the mass and started to talk.
What happened next was a blur to Rita. All she knew was that Aragorn was crowned as King Elessar and that he never looked more powerful or beautiful. As Frodo put the crown on his head and he stood up straight he glanced at her and gave her a wink.
Her answer was a huge smile and then they were taken into the city and there hundreds and hundreds of people met them.
Somehow Rita was separated from the rest as she was dragged to meet one family after the other. And every time she was treated with such respect that it shocked Rita.
She, who had very little experience with being treated like this, was now treated as though she were of royal blood.
The next day Faramir explained to her that to the people of Gondor she WAS royalty since she was not only the adopted sister of Boromir, but also very close to the king. There had been some kind of openingdance that evening, before dinner, and Aragorn had insisted on Rita dancing with him. It was some sort of tradition or something.
Now dancing wasn't something she was good at but both her and Aragorn had survived, and she hadn't even stepped on his feet once.
Something she loved was that Éowyn had dragged her to a room (a big one) and helped her clean up. The dirt was still on her skin and her hair was a mess to say at least.
Éowyn washed her hair as Rita soaked in the tub and the two spent hours just talking about battle and also about Éowyn's newfound love for Faramir.
For the first time in weeks Rita was able to get dressed in a clean shirt and pants. She had no dresses but Éowyn told her a tailor could make some if she wished it.
Since she knew it was expected of her Rita ordered two dresses, both in blue. The tailor had been stunned, most girls needed more than two dresses. But Rita pointed out she was quite happy with her pants and shirts so she would only wear a dress at an official dinner.
The days flew by and Rita was amazed at Aragorn's wisdom as a king. He was so busy as of late, conversing with the people, playing judge and also negotiating with his advisors.
Especially that last thing annoyed him to no end. Most of the advisors were old men who hadn't been in battle for a very long time, if they had ever been in battle that is.
They would argue with each other over the most silly subjects like whether or not to have a dance the next week. What also annoyed Aragorn was the fact he now had guards around him all the time; he who had been alone for most of his life could now never find a moment of solitary.
It was Rita who saved him from insanity one early morning when she woke him by throwing rocks at his window. When he looked outside he was surprised to see her there. She was holding the reins of both his horse and those of Asfaloth.
"What are you doing?" he asked not speaking too loud in order not to alert his guards.
She just grinned at him. "Saving you from going mad, now are you coming or what?"
He only took two minutes to get dressed in his 'normal' attire instead of the robes he was forced to wear as king. Then he climbed out of the window and made his way down. He had his sword with him, as well as a dagger in his boot.
Rita grinned when she saw this. *You can take the king out of the ranger but never the ranger out of the king* she thought while he was coming down.
When he reached her she had already climbed on top of Asfaloth and it only took Aragorn a few seconds to mount as well.
"Good morning" he said, in a much cheerier tone than he had had the last few days.
"Morning, now you're here lets go before they (meaning the guards) find out you're gone and start to look for you."
She forced herself not to chuckle as a look of horror crossed his face and he immediately spurred off, leaving her in the dust.
Of course she didn't give up that easily and she followed him in a gallop. "Noro Lim Asfaloth" she whispered to the grand steed and he sped up until he finally reached Aragorn's horse.
After racing past some trees the two slowed down and started to make their way back to the city at a much slower pace.
"I can't thank you enough for doing this Rita, I really was loosing my mind. I knew being king would have responsibilities but I had never imagined it to be so. . . so. . . "
"So boring?" Rita finished and chuckled when he nodded his head. "Well I guess that's the price for being king."
Aragorn sighed. "I know it is yet I find it a very hard task to pay attention to what my advisors are talking about, harder than any battle let me tell you that."
"That bunch of old men, no wonder you're bored. I mean one off them talked to me the other day, he was trying to tell me how it was not proper for a lady to walk around in pants. Oh and he actually listed a list of activities that WOULD be proper for a lady, knitting and sewing were on the top of his list." She snorted when she said this and Aragorn started to laugh as well.
"What I'm trying to say" said Rita "Is that you should find new advisors, men who are more. . . up to date so to speak. Men who you can trust and who have an idea about what battle is like. Take Eminor for example, he could be a fine advisor and so could Edrahir and Biron for that matter. Just start to surround yourself with new faces and you'll be fine."
A silence hung between them since Aragorn was thinking very hard. "Once again I am amazed at your wisdom Rita, do you know I spent hours pondering about a solution and never thought of anything that simple before."
They had reached the stables at that time and they dismounted, though neither of them were happy the ride was over. Rita had missed Aragorn, he had been so busy lately they hadn't been able to spend a lot of time together.
"You know what, I don't see your guards running around in panic yet so you think there'll be some time to spar. I feel rusty and it has been a long time since we sparred, Rohan was the last time we did that last."
"So eager to loose again are we?" Aragorn asked and he grinned when he saw her frown.
The two walked to the training part of the palace and drew their swords. They started to circle each other and both wore a happy look on their face.
Finally Rita was the first one to attack but she found her block easily deflected. The Aragorn struck and she was able to block his attack as well. Soon the two found themselves in a heated sparring session.
They were laughing and joking while fighting and neither paid attention to anything but the next blow. So they didn't see the audience that had started to form around them.
The first ones to arrive were some elves who had heard the noise, some guards of Gondor with them. When they saw it was just a game instead of danger they put their weapons away but they were entranced by the way Aragorn and Rita were fighting, it almost seemed like dancing.
From then on people just came to see what was holding the attention of the ones that were watching. When Aragorn eventually defeated Rita (It's not like she could ever defeat him!!!!) applause was heard and the two finally became aware of the people around them.
Rita just formed 'Oh' with her mouth and Aragorn grinned. He then grabbed her hand and bowed for the crowd, pulling Rita along with him.
The people laughed at their king's behavior, it was nice to be able to laugh after such dark times. The crowd began to disappear and soon only Legolas, Gimli and the twins remained. Where the rest of the fellowship was a mystery, though Rita suspected them to be at breakfast.
They were talking amongst each other, Rita was being complimented on her skill with the sword and Aragorn was teased with his un-kingly behavior. Then one of the advisors approached.
If you want to know what and advisor was like, imagine a very old, very wrinkly man (like Theoden in TTT) who had a look of disdain in his eyes and his lips pursed.
"It is not wise Milord to leave the castle unguarded, especially not without proper protection." He shot Rita a look that clearly stated he didn't think highly of her and Rita recognized him as the man who had tried to lecture her about 'proper behavior for a Lady'. She started to talk before Aragorn had a chance to open his mouth.
"He survived in the wild for years and led the army to victory against SAURON for crying out loud, he can protect himself. Besides, the two of us would have been able to deal with any kind of trouble sent our way."
The advisor scowled, making his wrinkly face even wrinklier. "King Elessar is a man of power now, it is our duty to protect him. And to you my king I wish to warn you for this kind of behavior like you expressed earlier. The people must respect your power and by acting like a young boy you do not accomplish that. You are king now and no longer a ranger." The last word came out like it was something unpleasant.
All were quiet as realization of what had just happened sunk in. Rita didn't believe it. *He just scolded Aragorn, the man actually has the nerve to lecture a king*
"I believe it is best if you retire Lord Omahir." Aragorn's voice had turned cold. "For if you as an advisor cannot see that even a king, especially a king, must remain human, I do not think there is a future left for you in my court."
Omahir tried to interrupt but Aragorn was on a role. "Furthermore I want you to call a meeting of all advisors as your last act as advisor. It is time for some changes and today is the perfect day to start. You are dismissed."
With that he turned around and grabbed the towel that was being held out by Legolas and started to dry his face from the sweat that was still on it.
For Omahir there was no other option than walking away. When he was out of sight Rita let out a whoop and jumped on Aragorn's back. At her sudden weight on his back he stumbled and the two ended up on the ground, which made everybody laugh.
"You sure showed him Aragorn, he has some nerve, scolding a king as if he's a kid."
Elrohir added to the conversation as well. "To think that you are as old as he is, if not older."
Aragorn leaped up and dusted the dust of his pants. "If I ever act like him, just kill me and have it over with I beg of you brother. Now I think it's best I make myself more 'presentable'. I have an important meeting to attend."
And he was off, back straight and in a confident stride. He had a job to do.
A/N: Well that's it for today, I hope I'll be able to update again tomorrow. Just let me know what you think, was this part too rushed or did you like it? I thought it was taking too much time in Ithilien so I had the timeloop, well was it crap or what??????