The problem that is the Dunlendings grew 'til all the people realized the danger. The king was doing his utmost to keep this threat at bay, though the more numerous outlanders managed to thwart his plans. I rode out on not a few excursions against the Dunlendings, and experienced for myself that they were indeed using tactics obviously introduced to them by Wulf, or even Freca himself while he still lived. I saw with my own eyes how my lord king hardened over the next few months, all traces of merriment and laughter forever gone from his eyes. He lost whatever few traces of fat he once had, becoming even leaner, though increasing in physical strength. He worked day and night, drilling the Riders and even himself to an unbelievable standard. It was clear that he expected harsher days yet.
Now one named Aldwine, one of the king's personal messengers, was sent out from Meduseld to Gondor, purposing to assess Gondor's present situation. He was charged also to bring back aid from Gondor, if that was at all possible. Gondorian soldiers would help us greatly in a time such as this, when our own were slowly, but certainly, growing fewer. Surely, though, the Steward would send some aid.
It was not uncommon for myself to be wearied at nights from the increasing pace of life. The Dunlendings gave us no rest, but harried us incessantly. The physical appearance of the Riders became fatigued as we continued in our harsh training, and though we were now much more disciplined and lethal in our fighting, the toll was showing, creating an awareness among us that we were indeed mortal.
The women of Edoras we kept busy with not only the normal, everyday tasks of cooking and housekeeping, but with tending wounded soldiers returning from chases. All men capable and willing of bearing a sword were trained, and even a few women, known as shield maidens, fought with us. Though some may not believe me, I say that it is a privilege to train alongside these women who are equally determined and skilled as any of us men.
On one sunny day, one that would have been considered cheerful and would lighten the hearts of many if not for the bleak times, I was sent to examine the yearling horses. It was a pleasant change in my training that I rather looked forward to this particular year. The demand for mounts was growing as the number of recruits increased.
My hopes were dampened as I perceived close-up how shorthanded we really were. No more than 250 yearlings stood in the corral; less than half of what I was accustomed to see each year. True, there were yet younger foals, but the comparison to normal times was staggering. More would come from other corners of Rohan; however, seeing the diminished numbers of Edoras was disheartening. The raiding outlanders had razed fields and crops that had earlier nurtured these animals; many had perished.
After many a long and mentally arduous day, I retired to my quarters in a house adjacent to Meduseld. My position in the king's guards required of me to be near and prepared to go to arms within moments of the news. I lived alone in my small, two-room abode, though some weary soldier from another village occasionally occupied my extra bed. Adequate rooming for soldiers was now scant, and not a few people in Edoras made room for extras with the influx of recruits.
It was not uncommon to see my lord King Helm among the soldiers in the field, mingling with the soldiers. He did this not only to hone his ability with weaponry, but also to give advice as well as heart to the soldiers. His presence seemed to brighten the field, and the soldiers worked harder and excelled when he was there. Everyone was doing his – or her, for that matter--utmost to please our king.
It was on a day like this, a day of productivity in the field and fair weather, that I received dire news. I was with the yearling horses, helping continue their crucial training, when I saw a rider fly through the gates of Edoras. He paused, but once he sighted the king in the field, he urged his wearied horse toward us. As he neared, I recognized him as Aldwine. He had made haste, to have made it to and from Minas Tirith in little more than a week. I hailed him, and he slowed after noticing me. "My friend, what news from Gondor?" I called. I feared fell news, for what good news could a wild-eyed Rider and an equally fatigued mount bear?
His word confirmed my grim suspicions: "Corsairs!" He spun his horse without another word, charging for the king. "My lord! News from Gondor!" They soon retired to the Hall, from whence naught was heard 'til dawn the next morning.
I was waiting outside the gilded doors of the Hall when Helm finally emerged, Aldwine in tow. After nodding to the messenger, who then proceeded down the corridor, he turned to me, and said: "Gather all the Riders in Edoras, and have them make preparations to leave within the week."
"My lord?"
"I have sent Aldwine out to organize the rallying of all Riders from around Rohan." He paused, then said, "We trust now on a hope that more will come within the week. We must be strong to fight these invaders."
I questioned him no more, not daring to bother him further. With a quick bow, I turned and went to my task.