Note: Sorry everyone for the late update. I we had problems with out last computer and the files I had on the CD were not showing up on this new computer. I don't know why. It was saying the drive was corrupted and just wouldn't open anything. So I'm going to have to re-type all the stories I had in progress. I'm so sorry! Blame my computer! Thank you for reading and reviewing and being so patient. As a request to Lady Love and everyone else, I'll keep Haldir alive. I don't want to kill him either! What about the battle at Minas Tirith-should I keep Theoden alive too?
Half Elf Princess 5—Battle Through the Rain
Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon or Lord of the Rings
Serewen fumed as she swiveled the end of her bow into the earth. She understood that Théoden and the others were trying to keep her safe but she wasn't weak like human women. She was half elf and half lunarian. Both were powerful races. Serewen raised her head, trying to see over the wall in front of her.
'What else could go wrong?' she wondered.
Within seconds, Rain started to fall and she grumbled. She could hear the sound of the orc army marching. Aragorn was talking to the elves and she could make out his words.
"A Eruchîn, ú-dano i faelas a hyn an uben tanatha le faelas," (Show them no mercy, for you shall receive none!)
Serewen bit her bottom lip in anticipation. Aragorn didn't have to tell her more than once. After the Negaverse destroyed her home, she wasn't about to show any ounce of mercy to anything.
On the wall, Gimli was jumping up and down trying to see what was happening down below. "What's happening out there?" he questioned Legolas.
"Shall I describe it to you?" Legolas inquired, looking out and turning to the dwarf. "Or would you like me to find you a box?"
Gimli laughed. In Serewen's situation she would need a ladder to see what was going on. The orcs stopped and began stomping their spears down in unison. Serewen tightened her hand around her bow. She knew they were here and she was ready to fight them. Why didn't Aragorn give the order yet?
Then she heard Aragorn's voice but it wasn't the order to fire. "Dartho!" (Hold.)
Serewen glanced up. What just happened? Hold for what? She no longer heard the orcs stomping their spears. They became deathly quiet. Then they started screaming in anger. Serewen grinned, wondering what happened to make them so mad.
The battle began and she heard Aragorn giving out his orders. The elves and men on the wall began shooting their arrows to the orcs. Serewen brought up her bow and waited for Aragorn to tell her and the other elves on the ground when they could shoot.
'Come on, Aragorn,' she thought.
She was happy to see Aragorn look down to them. "Hado ribed!" (Hurl to flow!)
"Please hit something," she said to her arrow as she unleashed it. Her arrow soared over the wall, down to the orcs and piercing an orc's throat.
She continued to shoot and she saw orcs rising up on ladders. She gasped and starting shooting them. Now that she could see her targets, she deiced to kept count as Gimli and Legolas said they would.
"Four! Five!" she shouted as she shot orc after orc down to the ground. The orcs continued to send each other up the ladders and as Gimli tried to strike them down with his axe, they were already shot. The dwarf groaned and looked around him.
"Who keeps shooting them?" he demanded.
The battle raged on with casualties of orcs, men and elves. None wavered a moment. They fought fearlessly. Serewen heard Aragorn shouting with a hint of fright in his voice.
"Togo hon dad, Legolas!" (Bring him down, Legolas!)
"Bring who down?" Serewen wondered out loud. "Aragorn, what is it?"
Aragorn continued to shout at Legolas. Something wasn't right. "Dago han! Dago han!" (Kill him! Kill him!)
Serewen looked around her. "Back!" she hissed to her fellow elves as she stepped backward. "Get back!"
"What is it, Serewen?" inquired an elf.
"Get back I say!" she said desperately.
BOOM!
The wall blasted apart. Serewen screamed as elves and men were thrown about. She saw Aragorn lying unconscious in the water.
"Aragorn, get up!" she yelled.
Gimli jumped down as Aragorn awakened. Serewen began shooting her arrows at the orcs as they entered.
"Aragorn!"
"Gimli!"
Aragorn joined the elves and pointed at the orcs as they ran in. "Hado i philinn!" (Hurl the arrows!)
The elves let loose of their arrows and shot the arrows. Serewen made sure every shot counted. "Nine! Ten!"
"Herio!" (Charge.) Aragorn roared and the elves unsheathed their swords and ran to the orcs. The orcs stopped and squatted with their big spears outstretched Serewen continued to fire with her bow, sidestepping as she fired.
"Serewen!" cried Legolas, throwing down a shield and jumping on it. He shot at the orcs as he slid down the stone steps. Serewen watched on in amazement.
"That's my husband," she whispered, "that's my husband!"
"Look out, Serewen!" Legolas warned.
Serewen turned and saw some orcs running toward her. She screamed and stabbed the orc in the neck with her arrow and shot the one behind with the same one. Legolas shot some in the back as he came to her.
"Are you all right?" he inquired.
"Yes," Serewen replied.
He glanced over at the orcs she just killed. "Wasn't I the one who taught you that?"
"You were," Serewen answered.
Legolas smiled. "Vandë carna!" (Well done!)
Serewen smiled back and placed her bow on her back. She took out her double-headed spear from her back and pulled on it, making it extend to six feet in length.
"Hantalë!" (Thanks)
She and her husband charged the orcs together in close combat. She swung her spear around, slicing off their limbs and piercing their armor.
Angered, Merry pulled on his jacket. Pippin tried to make him feel better.
"Maybe Treebeard's right. We don't belong here Merry," Pippin said as he walked toward him. "It's too big for us. What can we do in the end? We've got the Shire. Maybe we should go home."
"The fires of Isengard will spread." Merry muttered. "And the woods of Tookborough and Buckland will burn. And, and all that was once great and good in this world will be gone. There won't be a Shire, Pippin."
Pippin looked at him in disbelief. "Merry…"
"Don't you remember Serewen?" Merry demanded, "She was going to help in this fight and she's from the moon! She knows what it is like to lose a home and she doesn't want us to feel that way. She might be here right now…she may very well be in battle with the orcs."
Merry frowned and stepped away. Pippin sighed.
Serewen moved up to the wall to fight other orcs. She heard Théoden shouting. "Aragorn, get your men out of there!"
Aragorn nodded and shouted to Haldir and Serewen. "Nan barad! Nan barad!" (To the keep. To the keep!) "Serewen, Haldir! To the Keep!"
Haldir nodded. "Serewen, to the keep."
"But Father!" she shouted. "We can't hide from them!"
Two elves took a kicking and screaming Gimli away from the battle. "What are you doing?" he demanded. "Stop it!"
"Go!" Haldir yelled and an orc attacked Haldir from his left.
"Father!" Serewen cried, "watch out!" Serewen moved like lightning and sliced off the orc's head. Haldir fell to his knees, holding his side and looking around in disbelief. Serewen continued to fight remaining orcs as they climbed up the wall. "Don't you touch him! Get away!"
Serewen then bent down to her father "Father!" she cried. She looked up and called for help "Aragorn! Legolas, help me!"
Aragorn and Legolas ran up to the wall, knocking orcs out of the way as they came to her aid. "Haldir," Aragorn whispered.
"Get my father to the keep," Serewen said, "he's hurt."
"You too, Serewen," said Aragorn.
"I…" Serewen looked around and saw an orc toss a boy no more than eleven over the edge. Serewen frowned and looked at Aragorn. "No! I am going to stop them."
"Serewen," Legolas began.
Serewen put her spear away and took out her wand. "I will have to use the crystal."
"No, Serewen," Haldir grunted, "your mother did not teach you enough. It may drain all of your strength…you could die!"
"I have to do something," she insisted, "before the orcs destroy everything!"
"Serewen, get to the keep," Aragorn said.
"Don't you start, Aragorn," Serewen muttered. "Did you not say before this battle started that I was worth a hundred men? Now get my father to the keep where he'll be safe. I am going to try to get as many orcs as I can!"
Aragorn looked at Serewen and Legolas nodded at him. "Go," said Legolas.
Giving Haldir his arm, Aragorn helped Haldir off the wall to the keep. Serewen jumped to a platform over looking the army of Uruk-hai. "Qualmë urquin!" (Death to the orcs)
Serewen raised the Crescent Moon Wand. "This is for the Moon Kingdom. COSMIC MOON POWER!"
Serewen began glowing silver and the crystal emitted an enlarging energy blast. It consumed the whole Helm's Deep. The watchers shielded their eyes.
"That woman," a man said near Legolas, "who is she?"
"The Moon Princess," Legolas said. "She's my wife…"
The man looked at Legolas as if he was insane. "What?"
Serewen fought to gather her energy and let it flow. "Please, Moon Crystal," she whispered. "Save the people of Rohan!"
The blast flew out, breaking the orc's ladders and knocking them back like a huge wave. She continued to shout out war phrases in Elvish to make her focus. 'Don't let go,' she thought, 'Don't let go!'
Inside the keep the men fought to barricade the door. Suddenly they no longer felt the orcs' battering ram smashing into the door.
"What's happening?" Théoden inquired.
"Serewen," said Haldir, "she's using the crystal."
"What?" Gimli demanded. "Why didn't anyone tell me?"
The dwarf left through a back door as Aragorn shouted after him. He went to the wall and gasped when he saw the huge silver light. He stood immovable unable to speak. Finally, he got to see the power of the legendary Moon Crystal!
As row after row of the orcs became nothing but dust, Serewen felt her strength begin to wane. Sweat beaded across her forehead through her concentration. Her arms felt heavy but she couldn't let go. She had to buy Rohan some time. She kept her eyes tight and bit her lip. If she really was worth a hundred men she was going to prove it right now when she couldn't in the Moon Kingdom. She opened her eyes as she found new strength.
"Á urya cálë! Á rucë mórë!" (Flame light! Flee Night)
The light of the silver expanded, growing in speed and power and throwing orcs around as if they were toys. Legolas stayed close behind her, looking at her with amazement and pride.
'That is my wife,' he thought. 'That is my wife.'
As she just took out a whole third of the orcs Serewen's arms dropped and her strength left her. Her legs gave way and she fell backward. Legolas lunged forward and caught her in his arms.
"Serewen?" he whispered.
"My lady?" Gimli asked as he shuffled toward them.
Serewen slowly opened her eyes, gazing at Legolas. She moanded softly and took a breath.
"Holmelya ná ve orco," she mumbled drearily. (Your smell is like an orc.)
Legolas chuckled. "Serewen."
"I couldn't destroy them all, Serewen mumbled, "my strength gave out…they are still coming."
Gimli looked out in the distance, "you came very close, my lady. I think you are up to one thousand."
"She's outscoring both of us put together, Gimli," said Legolas.
Gimli turned, "well, I think you can have a rest Serewen. Legolas and I can finish them off for you!"
Legolas glanced at the dwarf. "Gimli…"
"That is all right, Legolas," said Serewen, "I'll wait in the keep for a moment until I regain my strength. I'll join you when I can."
"Take your time," Gimli insisted. "I feel there are going to be more battles soon."
Serewen sighed as her head fell into Legolas' shoulder. She knew Gimli was right. There would be more battles soon. Though she wanted to stay and fight she knew she did her best. She was able to buy Rohan some time. Now it was up to them.
The orcs were angry though surprised by Serewen's attack. Serewen waited in the keep to resume her strength. She didn't expect to destroy as many orcs as she did. She sat next to her father and checked his wounds. She was surprised to see that they were healed.
"I don't understand," she whispered, "how did you heal so quickly? That orc hurt you so badly."
"I think it was the crystal, Serewen," Haldir replied.
"The crystal?" she raised an eyebrow. "But how?"
"I do not know," Haldir said.
"It does not matter," Serewen said, "I am just glad you are safe!"
"Princess Serewen," said Théoden as he approached them. "I want to thank you for buying Rohan some time…I'm sorry for…"
"There is no need for apologies, Your Majesty," Serewen said firmly. "I was happy to do what I could. I hope it was enough."
They could still hear the noises of the battle outside. The sun began to rise and Serewen stepped outside. She was happy with the site she saw. Rohan was winning. They were fighting before the keep. Then they all stop in surprise as a man all in white leading a group of soldiers on hoses came out from the east. Serewen shielded her eyes and tried looking for Legolas or Aragorn.
"Who is that?" she asked, "Who is that?"
Haldir stared, "That is Gandalf."
"Gandalf?" she turned to him. "He's alive?"
"Éomer," said Théoden happily
Gandalf led the Rohirrimdown to the battle. The orcs screamed and ran to them and held out their spears. As Gandalf came closer, the light of the sun blinded the Uruk-hai. Ganaldf and the others attacked.
"We are winning," Serewen whispered, "Rohan is winning!"
Serewen was happy to finally meet the wizard Gandalf. Legolas explained the story how he survived as they rode away from Helms Deep led by Gandalf.
"I am happy we have the Moon Princess and the Silver Crystal to aid us in this war," said Gandalf.
"It is an honor to be here, Gandalf," Serewen smiled.
"Serewen," said Haldir, "I can return home or continue to Gondor with you."
"Yes, come with us," she said. "There will be more battles and Middle Earth will need all the help it can get."
They stopped to overview the land of Mordor. Serewen had her arms around Legolas chest. She leaned forward, staring down at Mordor
"Frodo and Sam are going through there?" she asked. "Alone?"
"Yes, Serewen," Legolas whispered.
Serewen frowned. "I fear for them."
"Sauron's wrath will be terrible, his retribution swift." Gandalf told them. "The battle for Helm's Deep is over, the battle for Middle Earth is about to begin. All our hopes now lie with two little hobbits somewhere in the woodlands."
They nodded in agreement and Serewen pressed her cheek against Legolas' back. She closed her eyes. "Ride on, Legolas."
They journeyed toward Isengard with Serewen resting time to time. She asked Legolas what happened to them when they left Lorein and he told her everything.
"Borimir is dead?" she inquired with sorrow. "Did he…try to take the ring from Frodo?"
"Yes," said Aragorn, "but Borimir fought hard to the end. He fought to save Pippin and Merry."
Serewen sighed. "It is my fault. I should have made him feel welcome when you all came to Lorein."
"None of this is your fault, Serewen," Legolas insisted.
"But I knew he was going to try to take the ring," Serewen frowned. "I should have told him not to."
"He might have done it anyway, princess," said Gimli.
"The Fellowship has broken," Serewen said, "Sam and Frodo are wandering to Mordor by themselves. Pippin and Merry—what happened to them?"
"They should be safe," Gandalf said, "I told Treebeard to watch over them."
They came closer to Isengard. It looked as if a battle had taken place.
"They must've been so afraid," said Serewen. "They are probably trying to get back home or…."
"Or sitting around…eating and smoking!" Gimli muttered.
"What?" Serewen gasped.
"Welcome my lords, to Isengard!" exclaimed Pippin.
Serewen whirled around. "Pippin! You're safe!"
"Serewen!"
Serewen laughed and jumped off the horse to embrace Pippin. She reached for Merry's jacket and pulled him close. She kissed the two hobbits on the cheeks multiple times and cried.
"I was so worried!" she sobbed. "I thought something happened to you! Are you all right?"
"We're fine, my lady," said Merry.
Pippi pretended to act like they were used to being carried off by orcs on a regular basis. "Those big stupid things thought they could just hand us over to Saruman, but we sure showed them!"
"You young rascals!" Gimli exclaimed. "A merry hunt you've led us on, and now we find you, feasting and… smoking!"
"We are sitting on a field of victory, enjoying a few well-earned comforts." Pippin explained as Serewen ruffled his hair. "The salted pork is particularly good."
"Salted pork?" Gimli asked.
Gandalf shook his head. "Hobbits."
"We're under orders," said Pippin, "from Treebeard, who's taken over management of Isengard."
The group rode over toward Orthanc where they are met by Treebeard.
"Young master Gandalf. I'm glad you've come." The Ent said. "Wood and water, stock and stone, I can master. But there is a Wizard to manage here. Look to his tower."
"And there Saruman must remain." Gandalf commented. "Under your guard, Treebeard.
"Well, let's just have his head and be done with it," Gimli muttered.
"No," Gandalf said firmly. "He has no power anymore."
"Good," Serewen whispered.
As they rode on Pippin saw something in the water. He looked at the glow and climbed off the horse.
"Pippin!" exclaimed Aragorn.
"Pippin, what is it?" Serewen asked.
"Bless my bark!" Treebeard gasped.
"Peregrin Took!" Gandalf shouted. "I'll take that, my lad. Quickly now."
Pippin handed him the orb and Gandalf wrapped it in his robe. Serewen looked and the group rode away.
Once they arrived at Edoras Théoden, Gandalf, Aragorn and others celebrated their victory of Helms Deep and remembered those they have lost. Pippin and Merry were singing and dancing on a table.
"Oh you
can search far and wide,
You can drink the whole town dry,
But you'll never find a beer so brown,
As the one we drink in our hometown.
You can keep your fancy ales,
You can drink them by the flagon,
But the only brew for the brave and true,
Comes from the Green Dragon!"
Everyone laughed and clapped at the hobbit's happy song. Serewen smiled as she looked at her goblet and drank. Eowyn came and sat in the seat across from her.
"You were the lady everyone spoke about," she said. "The one who saved Rohan."
"I did not save Rohan," Serewen told her simply. "I merely bought Rohan some time. Gandalf was the one who saved Rohan. Him and your brother and the rest of the Rohirrim."
"Even so," Eowyn insisted, "you helped us. I wanted to thank you."
Serewen smiled. "There is no need, my lady. The alliance was formed between men and elves long ago."
"You still fought well, Serewen," said Legolas, who sat next to her side.
"I wish my uncle would let me fight," Eowyn said, glancing in Théoden's diriectoin. "I do not fear pain or death."
"Nor do I,"
Serewen agreed. "Was it hard to wait in
the caves until the battle was over?"
Eowyn nodded. "I wanted to leave and
fight."
"You may get your chance, Eowyn," said Serewen with a shrug.
"Perhaps," said Eowyn.
"It is different for the women of other races," said Gimli as he sat up. He belched lightly and Legolas groaned. "The dwarf women are good fighters…my sister could swing an axe about as fast as I can."
"I don't think Eowyn wishes to become a dwarf, Gimli," said Legolas.
"I wasn't suggesting that!" Gimli exclaimed.
Serewen laughed and looked at Eowyn, "same with the elves. Gifted in both sorcery and archery." Serewen explained, "but I am only half elf. My mother came from the Moon Kingdom. It has been destroyed."
"Is that why you are here?" Eowyn asked.
Serewen nodded, "I can't let the same thing happen to Middle Earth."
At nightfall Serewen stood outside with Legolas at Edoras. "I've never been this far from home before," Serewen said softly. "It is strange though—I do not feel the need to return."
"You chose to come out here, Serewen," said Legolas.
"Yes, I did," she nodded. "I couldn't let what happen to the Moon Kingdom happen to Middle Earth. It's all I have left."
"I know." Legolas said. "Serewen, you fought well at Helms Deep."
"I did?" she gasped.
"Yes," he replied. "You are a good fighter."
"I'm nearly as good as you, Legolas," she told him as she down on the edge. She brought out the crystal and began practicing with it. Legolas watched for a while and looked on in the distance. They did not speak for a while. Aragorn came outside and seeing the two together, went to go and join them.
"That crystal is what saved Rohan at Helms Deep," Aragorn commented.
"It may be the only thing that can save Middle Earth," Serewen said. "If I can but harness its power."
"The stars are veiled." Legolas informed. "Something stirs in the East…a sleepless malice."
"What do you mean, Legolas?" Serewen asked as she brought her eyes off the crystal and up to Legolas.
Legolas glanced at Serewen and turned to Aragorn. "The Eye of the Enemy is moving."
"But, isn't it always moving?" Serewen inquired.
The ranger and elf began to explain to Serewen more about the Eye of Sauron. Serewen put the crystal away and listened closely. Then Legolas suddenly flinched and looked away.
"Legolas, what is it?" Serewen asked.
"He is here!" Legolas gasped.
"Who?" Serewen demanded as she got to her feet. "Sauron?"
A cry for help came out of the building. Serewen gasped.
"That sounded like Merry!"
Legolas, Aragorn and Serewen ran into the room where they had been resting. Pippin had Saruman's palantírin his hands and he lying on his back, screaming and writhing.
"What is happening?" Serewen demanded.
"He touched the palantír," Haldir explained. "The Eye has seen him…"
"Pippin, throw it away!" Serewen exclaimed.
"He can't!" Merry told her.
Aragorn bent down and attempted to take the orb away from Pippin. It caused him to fall and Legolas held him. Serewen came to Pippin's side and tried rousing him as Gandalf through a cloak over the palantír.
"Pippin?" she said, "Pippin, answer me!"
Pippin was frozen in shock. Gandalf pushed her away and put his hand on Pippin's forehead, muttering some words under his breath. The rest of the group looked on nervously. Pippin stirred and began crying.
"Gandalf, forgive me," he said.
"Look at me." Gandalf said firmly. "What did you see?"
"A tree." The hobbit replied fearfully. "A white tree. In a courtyard of stone. It was dead!"
"A white tree?" Serewen wondered out loud.
"Minas Tirith." Gandalf said. "Is that what you saw?"
"I saw...I saw him!" Pippin gasped. "I can hear his voice in my head."
"What did you tell him?" Gandalf demanded. "Speak!"
"He asked for my name," Pippin answered. "I didn't answer. He hurt me."
Serewen clenched her fist and her teeth. "Sauron…"
"What did you tell him about Frodo and the Ring?" Gandalf inquired.
Serewen spoke with the hobbits as Gandalf told Théoden what happened. "You shouldn't have touched it, Pippin." Serewen said sadly. "However, you just saw what he plans to do. Minas Tirith is about to be attacked."
"I never should've left the Shire," Pippin said regretfully.
"I told you not to touch it," Merry muttered. "Why do you look? Why do you always have to look?"
"I don't know," Pippin said. "I can't help it."
"You have to learn how soon, Pippin," Serewen insisted. "That thing could've drained all your energy."
"So what's going to happen?" Pippin asked "To me?"
"You might have to leave here," said Serewen sadly.
"What?"
Gandalf and the others approached them. Serewen turned. "What is it?"
"Of all the inquisitive hobbits, Peregrin Took," Gandalf said, "You are the worst!"
"You'll have to leave, Pippin," said Aragorn.
Serewen followed Gandalf and the two hobbits to the stables. "How unfortunate we are reunited just to be split apart again." Serewen mumbled with her hand on Pippin's shoulder.
"I'm very sorry," Pippin apologized, "I won't do it again."
"Don't you understand?" Merry demanded as he turned around to look at his cousin. "The enemy thinks you have the ring. He's going to be looking for you, Pip. They have to get you out of here."
"And you—you're coming with me, right?" Pippin asked hopefully.
Merry did not reply and he turned around.
"Merry?"
"Come on," Merry muttered. Pippin looked up at Serewen.
"Is Merry coming with me?" Pippin inquired.
Serewen shook her head. "You have to go alone, Pippin." She nudged his shoulder and they came to the stables. "Come along."
"How far is Minas Tirith?" Pippin asked.
Three days' ride," Gandalf answered as he loaded Pippin on Shadowfax, "as the Nazgûl flies, and you better hope we don't have one of those on our tail."
"Here, something for the road." Merry said as he handed a package to Pippin.
"The last of the Longbottom leaf?" Pippin inquired.
"I know you've run out," said Merry. "You smoke too much, Pip."
"But we'll see each other soon...won't we?" Pippin asked sadly.
"I don't know," Merry answered. "I don't know what's going to happen."
"Merry…?" Pippin mumbled.
"Goodbye, Pippin," Serewen said.
"Serewen?"
"Run Shadowfax," urged Gandalf, "Show us the meaning of haste."
Shadowfax took off and Pippin looked behind. "Merry! Serewen!"
Serewen walked to the entrance of the stables as Merry ran out to a lookout post. "Merry, wait!" she exclaimed.
She went after Merry as Aragorn spotted them. "Merry! Serewen!"
Aragorn and Serewen climbed up the stairs. Serewen placed her arms around Merry and rested her chin on her head to comfort him.
"He'll be all right, Merry," she whispered. "I am sure we'll all see Pippin again soon."
-
After Pippin's departure Serewen and the others noticed Merry's sorrow of not having his cousin around. Serewen was speaking with Eowyn about it and the two women became good friends quickly. Serewen told her all about the Moon Kingdom, how she always wanted to fight, just like Eowyn.
"Then Queen Beryl attacked," Serewen explained, "Darien told me to stay inside."
"It must have been hard for you to do that," Eowyn sympathized, "waiting there while those you love fight…"
"But I didn't," Serewen smiled, "I fought anyway."
Before Eowyn could comment, Aragorn ran inside.
"The beacons of Minas Tirith!" he shouted. "The beacons are lit! Gondor calls for aid!"
Serewen and Eowyn exchanged glances then looked from Aragorn to Théoden. Théoden thought on the matter for a moment and the room went quiet.
"And Rohan will answer!" Théoden announced.
Serewen and Eowyn smiled at each other. They were both going to join the fight and no one was going to stop them.
Later at the campsite, Serewen and Eowyn helped Merry into armor of the Rohirrim. Serewen handed Eowyn the helmet and Eowyn placed it on Merry's head.
"There," said Eowyn, "A true esquire of Rohan."
"I'm ready!" Merry shouted, withdrawing his blade, nearly cutting Eowyn. She laughed.
"Sorry," said Merry, "It's not all that dangerous. It's not even sharp."
Serewen folded her arms, "do you still have the daggers Galadriel gave you?"
"Yes," Merry replied.
Eowyn touched the blade in Merry's hand, "well that's no good. You won't kill many orcs with a blunt blade. Come on."
They urged him out of the tent and he wielded it around. Serewen laughed.
"To the smithy," said Eowyn, "Go!"
The hobbit ran off to the blacksmith with the two women looking on. Gamling and Éomer were nearby at a fire.
"You should not encourage him," said Éomer.
"And you should not doubt him," Eowyn insisted.
"I do not doubt his heart," Éomer explained, "only the reach of his arm."
Gambling laughed and Serewen scowled.
"Why should Merry be left behind?" Eowyn asked sincerely. "He has as much cause to go to war as you. Why can he not fight for those he loves?"
"Sam, Frodo and Pippin face a harder battle than Merry does," Serewen added. "They are alone."
Neither Gambling nor Éomer commented on what Serewen had to say. Serewen walked off with Eowyn close behind. Serewen found her bow and arrows and began firing at a practicing target to clear her head.
"It does not matter if hobbits are short," said Serewen, "it does not mean they are bad fighters. Just look at Gimli!" She brought her bow down and turned to Eowyn. "We may need all of Middle Earth just to save it!"
"I wish my Uncle could see that," Eowyn whispered. "It isn't fair."
"If you want to know what I think," said Serewen, "I say we go to war anyway and bring Merry with us." Serewen unleashed another arrow. Eowyn picked up a sword and wielded it around.
"How long have you learned how to use a sword, Eowyn?" Serewen asked.
"Years," she answered. "Would you care to spar with me, Serewen? I am a bit out of practice."
Serewen smiled, placed down her bow and picked up a sword. "Very well."
The two women brought their swords up and brought them together. Serewen learned quickly how skilled Eowyn was. As they practiced together, Serewen noticed a cloaked rider coming up. She stopped and turned.
"What is it, Serewen?" Eowyn asked.
"I think I know that man," Serewen replied, watching the man closely. The rider stopped and turned to Serewen. He pulled down his cloak hood. "Lord Elrond!"
"Who?" Eowyn inquired.
"He's the Lord of Rivendell," Serewen said, rushing over to Elrond. "Elrond, Mana cáral sinomë?"
(What are you doing here?)
"I've come to see Aragorn," he replied in Elvish.
"What is it?" Serewen asked. "What's wrong?"
"It's Arwen," he told her. "She is dying."
Serewen gasped, grabbed his hand and led him to King Théoden's tent. "Lord Théoden—this is Lord Elrond."
"You," Théoden stood up. "You are the one who sent the elves to help us."
"Yes," Elrond replied.
"I'll go and get Aragorn," Serewen said and she dashed out of the tent toward where Aragorn and the others were sleeping.
"Serewen, what is it?" Eowyn asked, standing outside of her uncle's tent.
"I will explain later," she said quickly and she entered Aragorn's tent. He groaned in his sleep. "Aragorn?"
The bad dream haunted Aragorn and he sat up straight, pulling out his knife. Serewen gasped.
"Aragorn," she said.
"Serewen?"
Serewen bent down to his side and took his arm. "Aragorn, Elrond is here to see you." She said with sorrow. "It is Arwen—she's dying."
Aragorn's eyes widened as he feared his nightmare would come true. Hand in Serewen's, they came out of the tent and went to King Théoden's tent where Elrond waited for him. Haldir sat near him.
"I take my leave," said King Théoden as he stepped out the tent. Serewen moved to give Aragorn and the others privacy.
"Serewen, you may stay," said Haldir.
Serewen nodded. "Very well."
"Serewen told me that Arwen is dying," said Aragorn.
"She will not long survive the evil that now spreads from Mordor. The light of the Evenstar is failing. As Sauron's power grows, her strength wanes. Arwen's life is now tied to the fate of the Ring. The Shadow is upon us, Aragorn. The end has come."
"She won't die, my lord," Serewen said quickly. "I saw in Galadriel's mirror that she and Aragorn will marry and have a child."
"You've seen it?" Aragorn asked hopefully.
"Yes," Serewen replied. "When Sauron is destroyed."
"You ride to war, but not to victory." Elrond continued. "Sauron's armies march on Minas Tirith, this you know. But, in secret he sends another force which will attack from the river. A fleet of Corsair ships sails from the south. They'll be in the city in two days."
"No!" Serewen gasped.
"You're outnumbered." Elrond told Aragorn. "You need more Men."
"There are none," Aragorn simply.
"Elrond told me about those who live in the mountain," informed Haldir.
"The mountain?" Serewen raised an eyebrow.
"Murderers... traitors!" Aragorn muttered. "You would call upon them to fight? They believe in nothing! They answer to no one!"
"They will answer to the king of Gondor!" Elrond said firmly, pulling a sword from his cloak and holding it out to Aragorn. "Andúril, Flame of the West, forged from the Shards of Narsil."
"That was the sword that cut off Sauron's hand!" Serewen said in amazement, gazing at the sword.
"Sauron will not have forgotten the Sword of Elendil." Aragorn said, unsheathing the sword. "The blade that was broken shall return to Minas Tirith."
"The man who can wield the power of this sword can summon to him an army more deadly than any that walks this earth." Elrond told him. "Put aside the Ranger. Become who you were born to be. Take the Dimholt road."
Serewen looked at Aragorn and then to Elrond.
"Ónen i-Estel Edain." Elrond said. (I give hope to Men)
"Ú-chebin estel anim." Aragorn stated. (I keep none for myself.)
Serewen embraced Elrond followed by Aragorn. "Sauron will not stand a chance!" she placed a hand on Aragorn. "Aragorn, you can do it. I believe in you. There is still hope. You are the one who taught me that."
Aragorn smiled and kissed her forehead. "Le hannon!" (I thank you!)
"Just where do you think you're off to?" Gimli demanded as Aragorn led his horse away.
"Not this time, Gimli," said Aragorn.
"Have you learned nothing of the stubbornness of Dwarves?" Legolas questioned humorously as he came up behind them. Serewen stood beside him.
"You might as well accept it." Gimli insisted. "We are going with you laddie."
Legolas helped Gimli onto the horse with him. Serewen came close to his horse and placed her hands on his leg.
"Are you sure you do not want me to come with you?" she asked.
"No, stay here," said Legolas. "Go with them to Minas Tirith. They will need your help, Serewen."
"We will try to get to Minas Tirith as quickly as possible," Aragorn explained.
"I understand," Serewen said with a nod. "Please, be careful."
"Don't worry, milady," Gimli said proudly. "I will watch over Legolas for you!" he patted the elf on the back and Legolas groaned. Serewen giggled.
"Well, I know he is in good hands then!" Serewen said.
"We won't be long," Aragorn said and the three rode into the mountain. Serewen waved goodbye and walked away. She found a sorrowful Eowyn looking out to the rising sun.
"Eowyn, what is it?" Serewen inquired.
"Why does Aragorn leave before the battle?" Eowyn demanded. "He cannot leave the men."
"He's not leaving them," Serewen said simply. "He is going to get more."
Eowyn sighed. "From the mountain?"
"They will listen to him," Serewen told her.
"I didn't want him to go," Eowyn frowned, "I thought he…knew…understood how I felt."
"You have feelings for Aragorn?" Serewen asked. "Has he not told you about Arwen? The one who gave him the jewel?"
"He said she was leaving," she whispered.
"She has returned to Rivendell," Serewen said, "and she is dying. They are in love. That was Arwen's father that came. He reforged the sword Narsil for him."
Eowyn folded her arms. "I should've known."
"Don't despair," said Serewen. "I know he has some love for you. Aragorn has a good heart. He taught me how to have hope in times like this."
Eowyn nodded.
Serewen placed her hands on Eowyn shoulders. "We are going to go to battle today. Minas Tirith will have two women and a hobbit to come to their aid. We will win and stop this madness."
"Are you sure?" Eowyn asked.
Serewen nodded. "I hold something stronger than any sword—the Silver Crystal—and as long as I have that Sauron will not have a chance!" Serewen said firmly. "We will win, Eowyn, have hope!"
"You are right," Eowyn said, placing her hands on top of Serewen's arms. "Let's ride out together—as sisters."
"Yes," said Serewen and they embraced. "As sisters…as soldiers of Middle Earth!"
They let go of each other, nodded and went to a tent. As Serewen dressed herself in the armor of Lorien, Eowyn used that of the Rohirrim.
"Tell me, Serewen," said Eowyn as she fastened a sword around her waist. "What is it like to go out to battle?"
"Invigorating," Serewen replied, pulling on her gloves. "I remember the day when I walked out with my bow and armor back on the moon. We may have lost but I definitely shocked Queen Beryl's army. I gave my people hope. We fought harder to the death. The same was at Helms Deep. Fighting will all those people…as one…and with my husband. I wished for it once when I was a little girl." Serewen picked up her bow and arrows and placed them on her back. "Now it has finally happened. I was able to fight along side with Legolas that night and it was the closest I felt to him since I was a child."
Eowyn smiled and picked up her helmet. "I am excited...but I am afraid a little."
"I know," said Serewen, "anything can happen in a battle. But we are fighting for what we believe in. It does not matter if you are man or woman. It does not matter if you are human, elf, dwarf or even hobbit. We all believe in something—it is our way of life—it is Middle Earth and we will fight Sauron and whoever comes to threaten it even to death."
"I know," said Eowyn. "It is time for us to go."
They placed on their helmets, turned to each other and clasped hands. "For Rohan…For Minas Tirith…for Middle Earth," said Serewen. "Now let's go before the men ride off before we do."
Eowyn laughed and the women went to climb upon their horses. Merry watched the men ride on next to his white pony.
"Little Hobbits do not belong in war, Master Meriadoc," King Théoden said as he passed on his horse.
"All my friends have gone to battle." Merry told him I would be ashamed to be left behind! "
"It's a three-day gallop to Minas Tirith, and none of my Riders can bear you as a burden."
"I want to fight!" Merry exclaimed.
"I will say no more," said Théoden as he began riding away. Merry stood there alone, watching the riders leave, feeling rejected. Two riders came up on either side of him and an arm came down and pulled him up.
"Ride with me," Eowyn said softly, putting her arm around him.
Merry proudly looked up at Eowyn. "My lady!"
"You didn't actually think we'd you leave you behind, did you, Merry?" Serewen asked playfully.
Merry shook his head. "Thank you, Serewen."
"If only Frodo could see you now," Serewen said hopefully. "Perhaps it would give him hope in his battle."
To Be Concluded