I am very sorry for not updating sooner but I have good reasons. First one
is I quit my job and had to find a new one, which I did!!!! Second is that
my application forms for University FINALLY came in and I had a lot to deal
with, and third and most importantly. . . I lost inspiration. I tried and
tried but the chapter will never be right in my mind again. I tried to
recreate the dialogue and scenes but failed, so I am now writing a
different scene, which won't be 26 pages but I hope you will still like it.
Am I forgiven? Oh yeah, my name is now Tara6, could be worse right?????
Lots of reviews, thank you all!!!!!!! I am too lazy to search the reviews so there is a chance your name will be mentioned more than once.
Light Angel2: Wow, thank you so much for the compliment.
Lina: The end is still a while away but I hope you like it anyway.
Darlene5: Sorry for leaving you for a while, hope you understand. Enjoy the update.
Serpent of Light: *blushes* wow, such praise. I have plans for Rita and Elladan still but those are for in the far future. It won't be cliche I promise. I'm starting my first year of studying law though writing would be nice, I have no imagination to create my own characters and such. I'm better at writing things for already created things. . . fanfiction!!!!! Thank you for reviewing 4 times, and writing such long reviews, I really love you now. ;)
Lilyofthevally: Thanks, hope you like this.
Mrs. Ekeena Greenleaf: Disappointed was not the word I was looking for. . . I was so close to tears, stupid computer.
Nuquarniel: I never tire of getting reviews and I love it how you review more lots of times. Thank you for your encouragement.
Danceinfae: Yep, it really sucked, ah well I have a new chapter now.
Blahblah: Thanks for waiting.
Leitheindel: Sorry I worried you, didn't mean to. Anyway, hope you like this chapter.
Elvish princess: I hated my Word crash, 26 pages!!!! (sorry still frustrated about that)
Iluvenis: I hate machines! ;)
Lady of Legolas: Vacation? I wish, I have a summerjob to be able to pay for my school tuition, it's a lot of money!!!! I nearly fainted when I got the bill.
Dara Maeko: Thanks for waiting, I hope you like this update.
Elvenflower: Hope your toes don't hurt from the waiting ;) Enjoy the chapter.
Shinigami29: Thanks, hope you didn't have to wait too long.
Youkai Ryuu: Rewriting is the hardest thing ever, that's why I gave up. I hate this chapter because it is just a fraction from what it once was, let me know what you think.
Prophecy1: Writing by hand takes too much time. Do you know how many times I change things in my story??? I started out that way (writing by hand) but by now the story is too complicated to do like that. I'm sorry I haven't been able to check out your fic, I have a current obsession with HP so please give me time.
Aislin2: I'm still not satisfied with the chapter but I can't keep you guys waiting much longer can I?
Mornie Utule: It did bite, I hope you like this chapter.
Kate: Sorry for worrying you, I really didn't mean to. Hope you can forgive me.
Musicgrl: Thank you once again for posting those two notes for me.
Lady Eleclya: I am so happy you like my fic, and I hope you will like whatever I am planning in the future as well.
Kimmaree: I'm sorry for leaving you hanging for a while but I hope you can forgive me. I will try to keep on updating weekly so I hope you'll keep on reading this fic.
Ice Goddess: Thanks for letting me know your opinion about chapter 62. I know it was lacking something but I wrote it with writer's block. I hate it when I have tht. I hope you'll like this chpater better.
Elbereth2: You did create a monster, so you are to blame for Arwen's obsession ;). I hope you like this chapter.
Cerelina: I hope I pleased you with this chapter. If you ahve any ideas for adventures with Gimli and Legolas please let me know.
The Great One: I am so, so , so, so, so, sorry for keeping you waiting so long. *bows down and grovels* Please forgive me. How was your vacation?
THEwriter Lioncub: I like it whenever you update, hope you like this chapter as well.
Donnamira: Carol did say that, maybe I'll let her haunt him.
Meggers1: I love being a graduate and ging onto university. It starts on September 1st and I'm a little nervous.
Elvish princess: I'm a fast reader and I love HP so that's why I read it so fast. Do you have any iedas for adventures for Rita????
Songelf88 and G.H.S. the warg: Babysitting can suck, though my sister is luckily the sweetest thing ever so I can't complain.
Norie Ape1: I'll try to keep it up, let me know what you think.
Tarilenea: Thanks for your ideas. I love Evanesence, I put the cd in when I wake up and turn it off when I go to sleep. My mom hates them by now. ;)
I Get Stalked by Snowmen: I love your name!! Read this chapter to find out. Elladan will be back sometimes but first she is going to have some fun.
Youkai Ryuu: It may reach 85 chapters, it really depends on how many adventures I will let the trio have and on how many iedas you guys can give me.
Aurumlupi: I think all your questions will be answered this chapter, give me ideas for adventures!!!!
The Lady Sorcha of Sevenwaters: Hope you like this chapter and OotP, though those two works can't be compared to each other, Rowling's brilliant.
Passion Lover: I know it lacked something and I love it how you are honest. To my defense, I wrote the chapter while having writer's block. I hope you will like this chapter better.
Tarilenea: Yep, my mom is cool like that. I'm happy you liked the chapter and hop eyou like this one as well.
Goddess2008: Thanks for the site, it helped me with this chapter.
The Story Weaver: Thank you for reviewing and the song sounds nice, I might put it in.
Danceinfae: There is a tiny bit of hope they might get together, actually I have it all planned out but it is a long time before I will let that happen.
Arwen-evenstar2: I'm happy you liked the chapter, hope you like this one as well.
Aislin2: Thanks for your review and for pinting out my mistakes, I'm too lazy to correct them though.
Mrs. Ekeena Greenleaf: Happy you like it, hope you like this chapter as well.
Mellon1: Hope you recovered from the shock, I also hope you will like this chapter.
MaverickGirl: Oh, I haven't reviewed our fic for so long, it just slipped my mind since I am now obsessed with HP, I'm gonna start catching up today I promise.
D-Chan4: I'll get them back together, just not soon, hope you can forgive me. I haven't had the time to rewrite my bio but when I do I'll put the link in.
Latin4ever93: Thanks for your review, hope you like this chapter.
Siren6: You are a little violent aren't you. You can beat Elladan all you like, I won't need him for at least 5 chapters.
Feanen: Thank you.
Mornie Utule: Thanks for your list of songs, I'll keep them in mind. Also thanks for the long review, I'm happy you finally caught up. Hope you liek this chapter.
DISCLAIMER: Not mine, the characters you do own you know by now.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Legolas had been right, the hobbits were eager to leave, as were the elves. The weeks leading to their departure Rita was feeling torn. The hobbits wanted to spend more time with her, the elves wanted her to visit them, Aragorn and her had lots of conversations.
Mix that with Legolas's and, to her despair, Haldir's intense training sessions and you'll understand that Rita was having a hard time.
She didn't know how Haldir became involved in her training, one morning he showed up and started to give her pointers, discussing with Legolas what she should do and what they should teach.
If she thought Legolas was bad, the combination of Legolas and Haldir together. . . instant pain. The intensity of her training was very high and Rita was making progress with the bow, though it would never become her favorite weapon.
She found that throwing daggers was a lot like playing darts, something she had done regularly on Earth, so she was able to pick that up with ease.
Haldir tried to talk to her about Elladan but Rita brushed him off every time. No matter how much Elladan had hurt her, she didn't want to see him hurt and she knew that Haldir would do just that if she told him.
So she always kept it vague, saying it just didn't work out but that was ok. Haldir had no choice but to accept that from her and gave her his silent support.
Aragorn was another matter entirely. He was still trying to find out what happened and had effectively guessed that Elladan had done something to hurt her.
When she winced a little he knew he had been right and bit by piece he got the story out of her. To say he was angry was an understatement, he was livid.
Just barely Rita managed to calm him down saying it was her business and hers alone. After he had found out he didn't touch the subject again.
What he did do however was tell her stories about his ranger days, telling her about where to find shelter in what part of the world and how to deal with certain creatures and situations.
He agreed with the training Rita was receiving and once or twice he made his way to the grounds to witness it. Sometimes he would help out with the training as well and those were the days that Rita didn't even show up for dinner, too exhausted to leave her room.
Somehow Rita managed to split her time between training, friends and her own troubles until the day they would depart had arrived.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
It was the morning that Éomer and his people had returned to get the body of his uncle, to bury it in Rohan where the kings of the times before lay.
Early in the morning Rita went out and visited places special to her. She visited people she had grown close to, the soldiers with whom she had fought side by side and the children with whom she had played endless hours.
Her bag had been packed days ago and though the one she had bought was bigger than her first, she had to make a selection of the things she could take.
Aragorn had told her she would always have a place in Gondor and had given her the room she had been staying in. It was hers, for whenever she felt to stop by.
Rita left all her dresses behind and with pain in her heart she also left her armor, the armor that had been so skillfully crafted for her. It was simply too heavy for her to take along.
Her room was neat when she last looked at it and she grabbed her bag and made her way down. Most were ready to go and she was one of the last to arrive.
Most company would be on foot and Rita wanted to walk as well until Glorfindel motioned her to come to him. She smiled and started to walk his direction.
"I can ride with you? I can walk you know."
"I know you can walk and yes you can ride with me, this concerns another matter. I know you are going to roam Middle Earth with your companions and it has come to my attention you do not have a horse to travel on. Therefor I want to give you Asfaloth."
Rita was speechless until she started to mutter. "I could never, I borrowed him a few times but I couldn't. . . he's been yours for so long. . . and. . . "
"You are right that Asfaloth has been with me for a long time, he has eternal life as well since he is an elven horse. But my time in Middle Earth is ending and Asfaloth is happy here. I could not tear him away from these lands, he will be happy with you. Now stop protesting and nod."
Mutely Rita nodded and then she hugged Glorfindel so hard that the elf thought his ribs would break. Then she hugged Asfaloth who had been stomping his feet and then Glorfindel again.
"Thank you." Rita said hoarsely. "This means a lot to me and I promise I will take good care of him. I won't ride with you, you need to say goodbye to him. I'll walk or hook up with someone else."
"As you wish Rita. You are a good friend." He disappeared in the crowd and Rita was still trying to regroup her thoughts. She had just been given a fantastic horse.
She smiled as she saw Faramir and Éowyn ride side by side talking in low whispers, they really did look cute together.
Not knowing how long she had been standing there she heard a voice. "Will you ride with me Rita? For old times sake. It will be long since I will see you again once we part."
Looking up she saw Aragorn on his great horse and she smiled when she took his offered hand. He pulled her behind him and Rita held him loosely around the waist as she tried to burn his earthy scent in her mind.
Sam and Frodo flanked Aragorn, each riding a pony and they were very honored by this. Rita saw Arod approaching fast and she had to giggle when she heard Gimli's loud voice.
"Stop I say you elf or I will walk for the rest of our journey, I mean it. Stop I say!"
Legolas stopped Arod right before Aragorn and Rita, but he stopped so abruptly that Gimli nearly fell off. When the dwarf yelled at him for that Legolas sent him an 'innocent' look and said.
"You said to stop my friend, so I did just so."
Gimli muttered what sounded like Dwarfish curses and this made them all laugh. Then Rita remembered Glorfindel's gift and told them about it. They were, like Rita was, stunned by his generous offer.
"You are lucky to own such a horse Rita, for Asfaloth is one of the most trustworthy horses in Middle Earth." Commented Aragorn.
"I know Aragorn, I know."
The rest of the journey to Rohan went like a blur. Rita talked for hours on end with Aragorn and the rest of the Fellowship, all feeling that this would be the last time they would all be together.
Rita spent a long time observing Frodo. The hobbit who had physically recovered still had haunted eyes and she noticed he sometimes forced himself to smile. She felt as if Frodo was fading from them, but shrugged that thought away.
Everyone rode at their own place but the last few miles the Fellowship rode together. It was Pippin who suggested that they should start singing and he and Merry sang a funny song.
(A/N: I borrowed this from HoshikoIzumi's fic Forever the Fellowship stands, where she got it from I don't know but I love it.)
"Hey! Ho! To the pub I go
To heal my heart, and drown my woe
Rain may fall and wind may blow
But there still be-many miles to go!
Sweet is the sound of the pouring rain
And the stream that leaps from hill to plain
But better than rain or rippling brook."
At this Pippin broke off on his own.
"Is a mug of beer inside this Took!"
Laughter erupted from the Fellowship and the verse was song many times, each adding a thing or two. Then the others sang a few song, even Gimli in his gruff voice sang a song in Dwarfish.
By now the Fellowship had attracted the attention of almost every man and woman traveling with them but they either didn't see or didn't care.
When Aragorn sang after the hobbits nearly begged him to, something about the song on the Weathertop, Rita felt herself being lulled to sleep and she closed her eyes.
She had to open them when Pippin made a remark. "It's your turn Rita, we all sang but you didn't. I am sure you know many lovely songs."
"Noooooo." Moaned Rita. "Come on Pip, I sang at the wedding. I hate singing, please don't make me sing."
"Fair is fair Rita, we all sang." Pippin started to tease Rita. "Or are you afraid to sing?"
Rita glared at him. "I am not scared! Fine, I'll sing, just give me a minute to think of a nice song." Now she started to wreck her brains for a nice song and then it came to her. Still haven't found by U2, it was perfect.
"I have climbed highest mountain
I have run through the fields
Only to be with you
Only to be with you
I have run
I have crawled
I have scaled these city walls
These city walls
Only to be with you
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
I have kissed honey lips
Felt the healing in my fingertips
It burned like fire
This burning desire
I have spoke with the tongue of angels
I have held the hand of a devil
It was warm in the night
I was cold as a stone
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
I believe in the kingdom come
Then all the colors will bleed into one
Bleed into one
Well yes I'm still running
You broke the bonds and you
Loosed the chains
Carried the cross
Of my shame
Of my shame
You know I believed it
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for..."
Rita smiled as she remembered their journey, over mountains and through fields. This song was the perfect expression of how she felt about her time here in Middle Earth and the rest of the Fellowship seemed to understand this.
When they reached Rohan they fell apart, each going to their own destination, but at night they all regrouped and it was then that Rita handed them the presents she had bought.
"I have a feeling that this will be the last time we will all be together, the entire Fellowship I mean. I know we'll travel a little longer but this seems the right moment. I will miss you guys you know. Now it's just something simple but I hope that you will like it and you can think of me when you see it."
She handed everyone their presents and explained what the colors meant. Of course the necklaces were a great hit since they weren't girly and it was a present from her.
They all, including Rita, put it on immediately and then they went to sleep, they still had a long way to go.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
When it was time to leave Rohan Rita found out that Arwen was staying behind and she felt guilty for not spending enough time with her friend. She rushed to find her and finally did under a huge tree where she was talking softly with Fioma.
"Arwen!" Rita exclaimed. "I'm so sorry for not talking to you and I swear I'll make it up somehow and, Fioma, you're here too. That's good cause I have something for the both of you."
She handed the two their presents and pulled her own out as well. She was happy that both ladies liked her gift and the three hugged over and over again.
Then Rita saw Elladan and Elrohir approach, probably to say goodbye to their sister. Fioma and Rita both felt this was a private meeting and left.
Arwen didn't miss the fact that Elladan avoided Rita's glances and she didn't miss the flash of pain in Rita's eyes either, before that emotion was locked away of course.
The goodbye of the three siblings was long and emotional and more than several words were exchanged. They all had tears streaming down their face once their meeting was over, and all of their hearts were heavy with sorrow.
As it was a custom, Rita went with the rest of the Fellowship to bid farewell to their hosts, King Éomer and of course Éowyn.
Since she wasn't very close to Éomer she just bowed her head to him before she turned to Éowyn. "You will be happy with Faramir, my brave friend. I know you will. You and me, we are a lot alike, both free spirits."
"Yes." Answered Éowyn. "Yet the time to fly free has past for me, which I do not regret for married life will bring me joy. You will roam Middle Earth like the free spirit you are, and once in a while you will visit me, to tell me of your adventures."
"It's a deal Éowyn." Rita gave the White Lady of Rohan a friendly hug and left the throne room. She ended up walking next to Merry who was looking at the beautiful horn he had been given by Éowyn.
The two didn't speak for Rita knew that Merry was still heart-broken over Theoden's death. Even though she had not been able to get along with the deceased king, he had been like a father to the hobbit.
Since Merry had traveled with the people of Rohan for most of the time he know rode together with Pippin until they reached Helm's Deep where they took a break.
As Gimli once again told the hobbits and all those who would hear about the enormous battle that had took place at that very spot, Rita started to wander around.
She visited the gap in the wall, the place she had almost sacrificed her life for those still standing on it, almost but not quite.
Remembering the battle clearly Rita closed her eyes and she swore she could still hear the cries of those dying and the non-human screeches and howls of the Uruk-hai. She remembered the smell of blood and sweat all around her and she rubbed her left shoulder where she had been hit with a burning torch.
So caught up in her memories she didn't notice a figure approaching her until she felt a hand on her arm. Reflex made her pull her dagger from her arm holster and she pushed it to the person's neck immediately.
She flushed when she saw Haldir looking at her with raised eyebrows and quickly placed the dagger where it belonged before apologizing many times.
Haldir waved those apologies away and started t walk towards what had been the elvish part of the keep. Rita followed and the two sat on a rock.
"Not too far from now we will part ways my friend. I shall miss you."
"I'll miss you too Haldir, you're my best friend, which reminds me, I have a gift and you don't have to like or something. I bought it in one of my mushy moments."
Watching his face intently as he examined the writing, Rita bit her lip while nervously playing with a piece of grass. She was swept up in a hug and returned it immediately of course.
"So I take it you liked my gift?" Rita managed to squeak. He released her and put the ring on. Rita put hers on as well and smiled at her friend.
"Of course I like it. You are my best friend as well and I will miss you while you travel all over Middle Earth. You will visit us at Lorien, will you not?"
"It's on our to-do list. Don't worry I want to see the mallorn trees again. Oh and the people of Lothlorien of course. You guys mean a lot to me. Made me feel like I have a home besides Gondor. I never thanked you for that, or for all the times you listened to me."
Pulling her up he put an arm around her as they walked back to the camp Haldir retorted. "I believe that is a thing friends do, not that I have a lot experience with that."
"You're a great friend. I have been wondering."
"Wondering about what?"
Smiling a wicked grin she answered his question. "What will you and Fioma do now. Will she stay in Lorien? Or will she go back to Rivendell?"
Haldir squirmed a little. "Fioma will return to Rivendell for now, she wants to be with her friends. Later she will join me in Lorien and whatever happens next, happens."
Whatever Rita wanted to comment on that was stopped when Gimli marched towards them. His story was over and Legolas was talking to Aragorn as Haldir and Rita approached the group.
"There you are lass, we're going now. You ready?"
"Just let me get my water-skin and some lembas and I'll be all set." Answered Rita. She asked Merry to look after her pack and returned with said items in a tiny bag which she slung over her back.
Legolas and Gimli were waiting for her when she returned and Rita saluted as a joke. "Rita of Gondor reporting to see the Glittering Caves." She didn't know what a shock those words would bring.
"You Rita?" asked Aragorn. "Visiting a cave, by your own choosing?"
"Yeah, well. . . there's nothing to fear but fear itself right? Besides, Gimli kept on telling me how pretty it was and since I am going to travel with these two, we might as well start our adventure here."
Many watched as the three friends started to walk away and what an odd sight they were. For who would have thought a year ago that there could be such a great friendship between an elf, a dwarf and a human?
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Rita followed Gimli, who was leading them, towards the entrance of the cave, Legolas right behind her. "Now lass." Said Gimli. "If you want to change your mind I will not blame you, your experiences with the dark are not al that pleasant."
"It's ok Gimli, I'll be fine." Taking a deep breath she was the first to enter the cave and she called to them. "Are you guys coming or not?"
The elf and the dwarf looked at each other, both amused, and walked in after her. Gimli lit a torch and guided them through the narrow corridor.
"Now this corridor isn't very special but just wait until we reach the halls and the domes. We are lucky the sun shines, for they will make the walls come to life."
He was talking and talking and Rita rolled her eyes at Legolas who winked back at her, for Gimli's joy to be back here was very clear.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
It was night when they returned to the company and Aragorn looked at Legolas and Rita expectantly. "Well, how was your trip?"
Gimli gloated as Legolas said that only the dwarf would be able to express the beauty in words. "Never before has a dwarf beaten an elf with words, yet now I must admit defeat."
They turned to see what Rita had to say but found her asleep against the rock she was leaning against. Aragorn smiled and eased her to the ground before covering her with a blanket.
"How did she take it?" he asked.
Legolas thought carefully before answering. "Though she had an anxious moment or two, the intense fear she once held has left her. She was just as awed as I was by the beauty of the caves and I believe that she will treasure this moment."
"Aye." Added Gimli. "I had my doubts about the lass coming with us but she has proven herself to be strong once again." He yawned. "Now I believe it is best to follow her example, we leave for Fangorn tomorrow."
One by one they fell asleep. Only Aragorn remained awake for he feared that Rita would dream again after her latest adventure.
He was right of course, Rita did dream, but this time she slept through the night with a smile on her face as she dreamed of glittering walls and flowing water, which was a lullaby on it's own.
When she awoke the following morning she felt more refreshed then she had felt since their stay in Lothlorien. She stretched out and rubbed the sleep from her eyes.
The only one already awake was Aragorn who opened his arms for her and she snuggled into them, feeling very safe and content.
"We will part soon Rita, for after meeting with Treebeard I must return to Gondor, my work there has just begun."
"I know, you're a great king Aragorn, never believe otherwise you hear me. I'll miss you, and the others as well of course, but your special. You were a part of hour foursome, we were the four hunters who ran for days on end to find the hobbits. I'll still have Gimli and Legolas, but you won't be there."
Putting his head on top of hers Aragorn sighed. "I wish I were free to roam this world with you three. To show you all the places I have discovered during my travels as a ranger, yet I have to fulfill my destiny. Know you can always come back to Gondor, there will always be a place for you."
The moment was broken when Gimli rolled on his back and started to snore loudly. They both started to laugh, quietly at first but out loud later.
They woke those around them as they kept on laughing until the tears streamed down their faces. When Gimli woke up he looked at them as if they had gone mad, which seemed to make them laugh even harder.
It was good they had been sitting on the ground for they would have fallen down. Finally they were able to calm down and the crowd was on their way once again.
Rita grew more and more excited as they reached a forest and urged Aragorn to ride next to Legolas and Haldir, who were discussing the mood of the forest.
She questioned Legolas about the Ents and he answered her every question until they reached Orthanc, once Saruman's proud empire, now in ruin.
As Aragorn and Gandalf talked to Treebeard, Pippin and Merry introduced Rita to Quickbeam and some of the other Ents. Rita was amazed by the Ents, but then again who wouldn't be?
The fact she was talking to a tree with a face was just sinking in when she heard Legolas say it was time for them to take their leave and explore the woods, with the authorization of Treebeard himself.
She ended her conversation with the Ents to join the others and now the time for good-bye's had come. Talking to her friends from Lothlorien she finally ended up with those who meant most to her.
Taking the first move it was Lady Galadriel who took Rita's hand. "It seems long ago when a sheltered and vulnerable young girl walked into my realm. Now you have grown into a strong and at times stubborn woman. Before you take your leave I want to offer you stay in Valinor, when you feel your time here has past you may join us."
Rita just stuttered her thanks and bowed low for the Lady and also for Lord Celeborn who smiled down upon her, nodding his agreeance with Galadriel's words.
Rumil and Orophin were next, they both hugged her and told her to visit them soon. Then Rita dropped on her knees as the hobbits rushed to hug her.
Taking her time for hugging them tightly she promised to visit them with Legolas and Gimli. When she hugged Frodo she whispered in his ear.
"I have a feeling I won't see you again Frodo, so I want you to know to be happy, to heal. I don't know why I feel like that but just try to heal. You suffered most of us all and deserve all the happiness you can get."
Gandalf hugged her, giving her some advice about a certain healing salve should she ever need it. This left two men to say goodbye to, two important men for Rita. First she hugged Aragorn and neither spoke, they had said what they needed to.
Then she turned to Haldir and flung her arms around his neck. "I'm going to miss you. What am I going to do without my best friend?"
"I'm sure you'll find a way to manage. Be careful and until you visit Lorien."
"Until then." Rita said.
She climbed on top of Asfaloth, who was standing ready for her and with Legolas and Gimli on Arod on her side she rode away.
Turning back once more she waved and looked at the people she felt closest to for one last time. A new time was out there. A time of exploration and adventure, and Rita was going to make the most out of it.
A/N: It's a lot shorter than the original version but I hope you guys like it. If anyone has some idea about adventures, please let me know, I need every idea I can get.
Lots of reviews, thank you all!!!!!!! I am too lazy to search the reviews so there is a chance your name will be mentioned more than once.
Light Angel2: Wow, thank you so much for the compliment.
Lina: The end is still a while away but I hope you like it anyway.
Darlene5: Sorry for leaving you for a while, hope you understand. Enjoy the update.
Serpent of Light: *blushes* wow, such praise. I have plans for Rita and Elladan still but those are for in the far future. It won't be cliche I promise. I'm starting my first year of studying law though writing would be nice, I have no imagination to create my own characters and such. I'm better at writing things for already created things. . . fanfiction!!!!! Thank you for reviewing 4 times, and writing such long reviews, I really love you now. ;)
Lilyofthevally: Thanks, hope you like this.
Mrs. Ekeena Greenleaf: Disappointed was not the word I was looking for. . . I was so close to tears, stupid computer.
Nuquarniel: I never tire of getting reviews and I love it how you review more lots of times. Thank you for your encouragement.
Danceinfae: Yep, it really sucked, ah well I have a new chapter now.
Blahblah: Thanks for waiting.
Leitheindel: Sorry I worried you, didn't mean to. Anyway, hope you like this chapter.
Elvish princess: I hated my Word crash, 26 pages!!!! (sorry still frustrated about that)
Iluvenis: I hate machines! ;)
Lady of Legolas: Vacation? I wish, I have a summerjob to be able to pay for my school tuition, it's a lot of money!!!! I nearly fainted when I got the bill.
Dara Maeko: Thanks for waiting, I hope you like this update.
Elvenflower: Hope your toes don't hurt from the waiting ;) Enjoy the chapter.
Shinigami29: Thanks, hope you didn't have to wait too long.
Youkai Ryuu: Rewriting is the hardest thing ever, that's why I gave up. I hate this chapter because it is just a fraction from what it once was, let me know what you think.
Prophecy1: Writing by hand takes too much time. Do you know how many times I change things in my story??? I started out that way (writing by hand) but by now the story is too complicated to do like that. I'm sorry I haven't been able to check out your fic, I have a current obsession with HP so please give me time.
Aislin2: I'm still not satisfied with the chapter but I can't keep you guys waiting much longer can I?
Mornie Utule: It did bite, I hope you like this chapter.
Kate: Sorry for worrying you, I really didn't mean to. Hope you can forgive me.
Musicgrl: Thank you once again for posting those two notes for me.
Lady Eleclya: I am so happy you like my fic, and I hope you will like whatever I am planning in the future as well.
Kimmaree: I'm sorry for leaving you hanging for a while but I hope you can forgive me. I will try to keep on updating weekly so I hope you'll keep on reading this fic.
Ice Goddess: Thanks for letting me know your opinion about chapter 62. I know it was lacking something but I wrote it with writer's block. I hate it when I have tht. I hope you'll like this chpater better.
Elbereth2: You did create a monster, so you are to blame for Arwen's obsession ;). I hope you like this chapter.
Cerelina: I hope I pleased you with this chapter. If you ahve any ideas for adventures with Gimli and Legolas please let me know.
The Great One: I am so, so , so, so, so, sorry for keeping you waiting so long. *bows down and grovels* Please forgive me. How was your vacation?
THEwriter Lioncub: I like it whenever you update, hope you like this chapter as well.
Donnamira: Carol did say that, maybe I'll let her haunt him.
Meggers1: I love being a graduate and ging onto university. It starts on September 1st and I'm a little nervous.
Elvish princess: I'm a fast reader and I love HP so that's why I read it so fast. Do you have any iedas for adventures for Rita????
Songelf88 and G.H.S. the warg: Babysitting can suck, though my sister is luckily the sweetest thing ever so I can't complain.
Norie Ape1: I'll try to keep it up, let me know what you think.
Tarilenea: Thanks for your ideas. I love Evanesence, I put the cd in when I wake up and turn it off when I go to sleep. My mom hates them by now. ;)
I Get Stalked by Snowmen: I love your name!! Read this chapter to find out. Elladan will be back sometimes but first she is going to have some fun.
Youkai Ryuu: It may reach 85 chapters, it really depends on how many adventures I will let the trio have and on how many iedas you guys can give me.
Aurumlupi: I think all your questions will be answered this chapter, give me ideas for adventures!!!!
The Lady Sorcha of Sevenwaters: Hope you like this chapter and OotP, though those two works can't be compared to each other, Rowling's brilliant.
Passion Lover: I know it lacked something and I love it how you are honest. To my defense, I wrote the chapter while having writer's block. I hope you will like this chapter better.
Tarilenea: Yep, my mom is cool like that. I'm happy you liked the chapter and hop eyou like this one as well.
Goddess2008: Thanks for the site, it helped me with this chapter.
The Story Weaver: Thank you for reviewing and the song sounds nice, I might put it in.
Danceinfae: There is a tiny bit of hope they might get together, actually I have it all planned out but it is a long time before I will let that happen.
Arwen-evenstar2: I'm happy you liked the chapter, hope you like this one as well.
Aislin2: Thanks for your review and for pinting out my mistakes, I'm too lazy to correct them though.
Mrs. Ekeena Greenleaf: Happy you like it, hope you like this chapter as well.
Mellon1: Hope you recovered from the shock, I also hope you will like this chapter.
MaverickGirl: Oh, I haven't reviewed our fic for so long, it just slipped my mind since I am now obsessed with HP, I'm gonna start catching up today I promise.
D-Chan4: I'll get them back together, just not soon, hope you can forgive me. I haven't had the time to rewrite my bio but when I do I'll put the link in.
Latin4ever93: Thanks for your review, hope you like this chapter.
Siren6: You are a little violent aren't you. You can beat Elladan all you like, I won't need him for at least 5 chapters.
Feanen: Thank you.
Mornie Utule: Thanks for your list of songs, I'll keep them in mind. Also thanks for the long review, I'm happy you finally caught up. Hope you liek this chapter.
DISCLAIMER: Not mine, the characters you do own you know by now.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Legolas had been right, the hobbits were eager to leave, as were the elves. The weeks leading to their departure Rita was feeling torn. The hobbits wanted to spend more time with her, the elves wanted her to visit them, Aragorn and her had lots of conversations.
Mix that with Legolas's and, to her despair, Haldir's intense training sessions and you'll understand that Rita was having a hard time.
She didn't know how Haldir became involved in her training, one morning he showed up and started to give her pointers, discussing with Legolas what she should do and what they should teach.
If she thought Legolas was bad, the combination of Legolas and Haldir together. . . instant pain. The intensity of her training was very high and Rita was making progress with the bow, though it would never become her favorite weapon.
She found that throwing daggers was a lot like playing darts, something she had done regularly on Earth, so she was able to pick that up with ease.
Haldir tried to talk to her about Elladan but Rita brushed him off every time. No matter how much Elladan had hurt her, she didn't want to see him hurt and she knew that Haldir would do just that if she told him.
So she always kept it vague, saying it just didn't work out but that was ok. Haldir had no choice but to accept that from her and gave her his silent support.
Aragorn was another matter entirely. He was still trying to find out what happened and had effectively guessed that Elladan had done something to hurt her.
When she winced a little he knew he had been right and bit by piece he got the story out of her. To say he was angry was an understatement, he was livid.
Just barely Rita managed to calm him down saying it was her business and hers alone. After he had found out he didn't touch the subject again.
What he did do however was tell her stories about his ranger days, telling her about where to find shelter in what part of the world and how to deal with certain creatures and situations.
He agreed with the training Rita was receiving and once or twice he made his way to the grounds to witness it. Sometimes he would help out with the training as well and those were the days that Rita didn't even show up for dinner, too exhausted to leave her room.
Somehow Rita managed to split her time between training, friends and her own troubles until the day they would depart had arrived.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
It was the morning that Éomer and his people had returned to get the body of his uncle, to bury it in Rohan where the kings of the times before lay.
Early in the morning Rita went out and visited places special to her. She visited people she had grown close to, the soldiers with whom she had fought side by side and the children with whom she had played endless hours.
Her bag had been packed days ago and though the one she had bought was bigger than her first, she had to make a selection of the things she could take.
Aragorn had told her she would always have a place in Gondor and had given her the room she had been staying in. It was hers, for whenever she felt to stop by.
Rita left all her dresses behind and with pain in her heart she also left her armor, the armor that had been so skillfully crafted for her. It was simply too heavy for her to take along.
Her room was neat when she last looked at it and she grabbed her bag and made her way down. Most were ready to go and she was one of the last to arrive.
Most company would be on foot and Rita wanted to walk as well until Glorfindel motioned her to come to him. She smiled and started to walk his direction.
"I can ride with you? I can walk you know."
"I know you can walk and yes you can ride with me, this concerns another matter. I know you are going to roam Middle Earth with your companions and it has come to my attention you do not have a horse to travel on. Therefor I want to give you Asfaloth."
Rita was speechless until she started to mutter. "I could never, I borrowed him a few times but I couldn't. . . he's been yours for so long. . . and. . . "
"You are right that Asfaloth has been with me for a long time, he has eternal life as well since he is an elven horse. But my time in Middle Earth is ending and Asfaloth is happy here. I could not tear him away from these lands, he will be happy with you. Now stop protesting and nod."
Mutely Rita nodded and then she hugged Glorfindel so hard that the elf thought his ribs would break. Then she hugged Asfaloth who had been stomping his feet and then Glorfindel again.
"Thank you." Rita said hoarsely. "This means a lot to me and I promise I will take good care of him. I won't ride with you, you need to say goodbye to him. I'll walk or hook up with someone else."
"As you wish Rita. You are a good friend." He disappeared in the crowd and Rita was still trying to regroup her thoughts. She had just been given a fantastic horse.
She smiled as she saw Faramir and Éowyn ride side by side talking in low whispers, they really did look cute together.
Not knowing how long she had been standing there she heard a voice. "Will you ride with me Rita? For old times sake. It will be long since I will see you again once we part."
Looking up she saw Aragorn on his great horse and she smiled when she took his offered hand. He pulled her behind him and Rita held him loosely around the waist as she tried to burn his earthy scent in her mind.
Sam and Frodo flanked Aragorn, each riding a pony and they were very honored by this. Rita saw Arod approaching fast and she had to giggle when she heard Gimli's loud voice.
"Stop I say you elf or I will walk for the rest of our journey, I mean it. Stop I say!"
Legolas stopped Arod right before Aragorn and Rita, but he stopped so abruptly that Gimli nearly fell off. When the dwarf yelled at him for that Legolas sent him an 'innocent' look and said.
"You said to stop my friend, so I did just so."
Gimli muttered what sounded like Dwarfish curses and this made them all laugh. Then Rita remembered Glorfindel's gift and told them about it. They were, like Rita was, stunned by his generous offer.
"You are lucky to own such a horse Rita, for Asfaloth is one of the most trustworthy horses in Middle Earth." Commented Aragorn.
"I know Aragorn, I know."
The rest of the journey to Rohan went like a blur. Rita talked for hours on end with Aragorn and the rest of the Fellowship, all feeling that this would be the last time they would all be together.
Rita spent a long time observing Frodo. The hobbit who had physically recovered still had haunted eyes and she noticed he sometimes forced himself to smile. She felt as if Frodo was fading from them, but shrugged that thought away.
Everyone rode at their own place but the last few miles the Fellowship rode together. It was Pippin who suggested that they should start singing and he and Merry sang a funny song.
(A/N: I borrowed this from HoshikoIzumi's fic Forever the Fellowship stands, where she got it from I don't know but I love it.)
"Hey! Ho! To the pub I go
To heal my heart, and drown my woe
Rain may fall and wind may blow
But there still be-many miles to go!
Sweet is the sound of the pouring rain
And the stream that leaps from hill to plain
But better than rain or rippling brook."
At this Pippin broke off on his own.
"Is a mug of beer inside this Took!"
Laughter erupted from the Fellowship and the verse was song many times, each adding a thing or two. Then the others sang a few song, even Gimli in his gruff voice sang a song in Dwarfish.
By now the Fellowship had attracted the attention of almost every man and woman traveling with them but they either didn't see or didn't care.
When Aragorn sang after the hobbits nearly begged him to, something about the song on the Weathertop, Rita felt herself being lulled to sleep and she closed her eyes.
She had to open them when Pippin made a remark. "It's your turn Rita, we all sang but you didn't. I am sure you know many lovely songs."
"Noooooo." Moaned Rita. "Come on Pip, I sang at the wedding. I hate singing, please don't make me sing."
"Fair is fair Rita, we all sang." Pippin started to tease Rita. "Or are you afraid to sing?"
Rita glared at him. "I am not scared! Fine, I'll sing, just give me a minute to think of a nice song." Now she started to wreck her brains for a nice song and then it came to her. Still haven't found by U2, it was perfect.
"I have climbed highest mountain
I have run through the fields
Only to be with you
Only to be with you
I have run
I have crawled
I have scaled these city walls
These city walls
Only to be with you
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
I have kissed honey lips
Felt the healing in my fingertips
It burned like fire
This burning desire
I have spoke with the tongue of angels
I have held the hand of a devil
It was warm in the night
I was cold as a stone
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
I believe in the kingdom come
Then all the colors will bleed into one
Bleed into one
Well yes I'm still running
You broke the bonds and you
Loosed the chains
Carried the cross
Of my shame
Of my shame
You know I believed it
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for
But I still haven't found what I'm looking for..."
Rita smiled as she remembered their journey, over mountains and through fields. This song was the perfect expression of how she felt about her time here in Middle Earth and the rest of the Fellowship seemed to understand this.
When they reached Rohan they fell apart, each going to their own destination, but at night they all regrouped and it was then that Rita handed them the presents she had bought.
"I have a feeling that this will be the last time we will all be together, the entire Fellowship I mean. I know we'll travel a little longer but this seems the right moment. I will miss you guys you know. Now it's just something simple but I hope that you will like it and you can think of me when you see it."
She handed everyone their presents and explained what the colors meant. Of course the necklaces were a great hit since they weren't girly and it was a present from her.
They all, including Rita, put it on immediately and then they went to sleep, they still had a long way to go.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
When it was time to leave Rohan Rita found out that Arwen was staying behind and she felt guilty for not spending enough time with her friend. She rushed to find her and finally did under a huge tree where she was talking softly with Fioma.
"Arwen!" Rita exclaimed. "I'm so sorry for not talking to you and I swear I'll make it up somehow and, Fioma, you're here too. That's good cause I have something for the both of you."
She handed the two their presents and pulled her own out as well. She was happy that both ladies liked her gift and the three hugged over and over again.
Then Rita saw Elladan and Elrohir approach, probably to say goodbye to their sister. Fioma and Rita both felt this was a private meeting and left.
Arwen didn't miss the fact that Elladan avoided Rita's glances and she didn't miss the flash of pain in Rita's eyes either, before that emotion was locked away of course.
The goodbye of the three siblings was long and emotional and more than several words were exchanged. They all had tears streaming down their face once their meeting was over, and all of their hearts were heavy with sorrow.
As it was a custom, Rita went with the rest of the Fellowship to bid farewell to their hosts, King Éomer and of course Éowyn.
Since she wasn't very close to Éomer she just bowed her head to him before she turned to Éowyn. "You will be happy with Faramir, my brave friend. I know you will. You and me, we are a lot alike, both free spirits."
"Yes." Answered Éowyn. "Yet the time to fly free has past for me, which I do not regret for married life will bring me joy. You will roam Middle Earth like the free spirit you are, and once in a while you will visit me, to tell me of your adventures."
"It's a deal Éowyn." Rita gave the White Lady of Rohan a friendly hug and left the throne room. She ended up walking next to Merry who was looking at the beautiful horn he had been given by Éowyn.
The two didn't speak for Rita knew that Merry was still heart-broken over Theoden's death. Even though she had not been able to get along with the deceased king, he had been like a father to the hobbit.
Since Merry had traveled with the people of Rohan for most of the time he know rode together with Pippin until they reached Helm's Deep where they took a break.
As Gimli once again told the hobbits and all those who would hear about the enormous battle that had took place at that very spot, Rita started to wander around.
She visited the gap in the wall, the place she had almost sacrificed her life for those still standing on it, almost but not quite.
Remembering the battle clearly Rita closed her eyes and she swore she could still hear the cries of those dying and the non-human screeches and howls of the Uruk-hai. She remembered the smell of blood and sweat all around her and she rubbed her left shoulder where she had been hit with a burning torch.
So caught up in her memories she didn't notice a figure approaching her until she felt a hand on her arm. Reflex made her pull her dagger from her arm holster and she pushed it to the person's neck immediately.
She flushed when she saw Haldir looking at her with raised eyebrows and quickly placed the dagger where it belonged before apologizing many times.
Haldir waved those apologies away and started t walk towards what had been the elvish part of the keep. Rita followed and the two sat on a rock.
"Not too far from now we will part ways my friend. I shall miss you."
"I'll miss you too Haldir, you're my best friend, which reminds me, I have a gift and you don't have to like or something. I bought it in one of my mushy moments."
Watching his face intently as he examined the writing, Rita bit her lip while nervously playing with a piece of grass. She was swept up in a hug and returned it immediately of course.
"So I take it you liked my gift?" Rita managed to squeak. He released her and put the ring on. Rita put hers on as well and smiled at her friend.
"Of course I like it. You are my best friend as well and I will miss you while you travel all over Middle Earth. You will visit us at Lorien, will you not?"
"It's on our to-do list. Don't worry I want to see the mallorn trees again. Oh and the people of Lothlorien of course. You guys mean a lot to me. Made me feel like I have a home besides Gondor. I never thanked you for that, or for all the times you listened to me."
Pulling her up he put an arm around her as they walked back to the camp Haldir retorted. "I believe that is a thing friends do, not that I have a lot experience with that."
"You're a great friend. I have been wondering."
"Wondering about what?"
Smiling a wicked grin she answered his question. "What will you and Fioma do now. Will she stay in Lorien? Or will she go back to Rivendell?"
Haldir squirmed a little. "Fioma will return to Rivendell for now, she wants to be with her friends. Later she will join me in Lorien and whatever happens next, happens."
Whatever Rita wanted to comment on that was stopped when Gimli marched towards them. His story was over and Legolas was talking to Aragorn as Haldir and Rita approached the group.
"There you are lass, we're going now. You ready?"
"Just let me get my water-skin and some lembas and I'll be all set." Answered Rita. She asked Merry to look after her pack and returned with said items in a tiny bag which she slung over her back.
Legolas and Gimli were waiting for her when she returned and Rita saluted as a joke. "Rita of Gondor reporting to see the Glittering Caves." She didn't know what a shock those words would bring.
"You Rita?" asked Aragorn. "Visiting a cave, by your own choosing?"
"Yeah, well. . . there's nothing to fear but fear itself right? Besides, Gimli kept on telling me how pretty it was and since I am going to travel with these two, we might as well start our adventure here."
Many watched as the three friends started to walk away and what an odd sight they were. For who would have thought a year ago that there could be such a great friendship between an elf, a dwarf and a human?
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Rita followed Gimli, who was leading them, towards the entrance of the cave, Legolas right behind her. "Now lass." Said Gimli. "If you want to change your mind I will not blame you, your experiences with the dark are not al that pleasant."
"It's ok Gimli, I'll be fine." Taking a deep breath she was the first to enter the cave and she called to them. "Are you guys coming or not?"
The elf and the dwarf looked at each other, both amused, and walked in after her. Gimli lit a torch and guided them through the narrow corridor.
"Now this corridor isn't very special but just wait until we reach the halls and the domes. We are lucky the sun shines, for they will make the walls come to life."
He was talking and talking and Rita rolled her eyes at Legolas who winked back at her, for Gimli's joy to be back here was very clear.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
It was night when they returned to the company and Aragorn looked at Legolas and Rita expectantly. "Well, how was your trip?"
Gimli gloated as Legolas said that only the dwarf would be able to express the beauty in words. "Never before has a dwarf beaten an elf with words, yet now I must admit defeat."
They turned to see what Rita had to say but found her asleep against the rock she was leaning against. Aragorn smiled and eased her to the ground before covering her with a blanket.
"How did she take it?" he asked.
Legolas thought carefully before answering. "Though she had an anxious moment or two, the intense fear she once held has left her. She was just as awed as I was by the beauty of the caves and I believe that she will treasure this moment."
"Aye." Added Gimli. "I had my doubts about the lass coming with us but she has proven herself to be strong once again." He yawned. "Now I believe it is best to follow her example, we leave for Fangorn tomorrow."
One by one they fell asleep. Only Aragorn remained awake for he feared that Rita would dream again after her latest adventure.
He was right of course, Rita did dream, but this time she slept through the night with a smile on her face as she dreamed of glittering walls and flowing water, which was a lullaby on it's own.
When she awoke the following morning she felt more refreshed then she had felt since their stay in Lothlorien. She stretched out and rubbed the sleep from her eyes.
The only one already awake was Aragorn who opened his arms for her and she snuggled into them, feeling very safe and content.
"We will part soon Rita, for after meeting with Treebeard I must return to Gondor, my work there has just begun."
"I know, you're a great king Aragorn, never believe otherwise you hear me. I'll miss you, and the others as well of course, but your special. You were a part of hour foursome, we were the four hunters who ran for days on end to find the hobbits. I'll still have Gimli and Legolas, but you won't be there."
Putting his head on top of hers Aragorn sighed. "I wish I were free to roam this world with you three. To show you all the places I have discovered during my travels as a ranger, yet I have to fulfill my destiny. Know you can always come back to Gondor, there will always be a place for you."
The moment was broken when Gimli rolled on his back and started to snore loudly. They both started to laugh, quietly at first but out loud later.
They woke those around them as they kept on laughing until the tears streamed down their faces. When Gimli woke up he looked at them as if they had gone mad, which seemed to make them laugh even harder.
It was good they had been sitting on the ground for they would have fallen down. Finally they were able to calm down and the crowd was on their way once again.
Rita grew more and more excited as they reached a forest and urged Aragorn to ride next to Legolas and Haldir, who were discussing the mood of the forest.
She questioned Legolas about the Ents and he answered her every question until they reached Orthanc, once Saruman's proud empire, now in ruin.
As Aragorn and Gandalf talked to Treebeard, Pippin and Merry introduced Rita to Quickbeam and some of the other Ents. Rita was amazed by the Ents, but then again who wouldn't be?
The fact she was talking to a tree with a face was just sinking in when she heard Legolas say it was time for them to take their leave and explore the woods, with the authorization of Treebeard himself.
She ended her conversation with the Ents to join the others and now the time for good-bye's had come. Talking to her friends from Lothlorien she finally ended up with those who meant most to her.
Taking the first move it was Lady Galadriel who took Rita's hand. "It seems long ago when a sheltered and vulnerable young girl walked into my realm. Now you have grown into a strong and at times stubborn woman. Before you take your leave I want to offer you stay in Valinor, when you feel your time here has past you may join us."
Rita just stuttered her thanks and bowed low for the Lady and also for Lord Celeborn who smiled down upon her, nodding his agreeance with Galadriel's words.
Rumil and Orophin were next, they both hugged her and told her to visit them soon. Then Rita dropped on her knees as the hobbits rushed to hug her.
Taking her time for hugging them tightly she promised to visit them with Legolas and Gimli. When she hugged Frodo she whispered in his ear.
"I have a feeling I won't see you again Frodo, so I want you to know to be happy, to heal. I don't know why I feel like that but just try to heal. You suffered most of us all and deserve all the happiness you can get."
Gandalf hugged her, giving her some advice about a certain healing salve should she ever need it. This left two men to say goodbye to, two important men for Rita. First she hugged Aragorn and neither spoke, they had said what they needed to.
Then she turned to Haldir and flung her arms around his neck. "I'm going to miss you. What am I going to do without my best friend?"
"I'm sure you'll find a way to manage. Be careful and until you visit Lorien."
"Until then." Rita said.
She climbed on top of Asfaloth, who was standing ready for her and with Legolas and Gimli on Arod on her side she rode away.
Turning back once more she waved and looked at the people she felt closest to for one last time. A new time was out there. A time of exploration and adventure, and Rita was going to make the most out of it.
A/N: It's a lot shorter than the original version but I hope you guys like it. If anyone has some idea about adventures, please let me know, I need every idea I can get.