Disclaimer I am inclined to report that I still own nothing. Aren't I so lame. Oh well.

Chapter 2: Uncertanties

Aragorn held Merry in his arms as the army returned to Minas Tirith. The Hobbit had opened his eyes, but did not look well.

"Is he all right?" Pippin asked, concerned greatly for his beloved cousin. Since Gandalf had gone with Gwaihir to search for Frodo and Sam, the youngest hobbit was riding with Eomer.

"I'm fine, Pip. I'm just a bit tired, that's all," Merry persuaded. Aragorn, however, knew differently. Merry had grown quite pale, probably from loss of blood. Although no vital areas had been stabbed, he had sustained multiple wounds. Aragorn hadn't yet been able to determine if any of the blades had been poisoned. Ho would only have sufficient time and resources for this once they were back in Minas Tirith. He hoped Faramir and Eowyn had treated themselves better than the young hobbit who was shivering in front of him. The king spared a hand to unfasten his cloak and drape it over Merry, who seemed to be falling asleep again, his head resting on the horse's neck.

From behind him, Legolas brought his horse up beside the king of Gondor.

"Aragorn, Perrian lomae. Rochon ellint in. the hobbit isn't well. I'll take him" Knowing he had to be a kingly figure and ride in with the army, Aragorn sighed and, praying that Legolas would make all haste to Minas Tirith, he gently handed Merry to the elf. Gimli dismounted from behind Legolas, who placed Merry before him in on the white mare. As soon as the Hobbit was situated, Legolas raced on toward Minas Tirith, leaving Gimli shouting Dwarvish curses to the flying dust because he had been thrown from the horse.

"Noro lim ride fast" whispered the Ranger to the now invisible forms of his two friends as he helped Gimli rise. Pippin was terrified and he just stared in horror at the Ranger, wondering which of his questions to ask first.

"Aragorn, is Merry okay?" he asked in a quavering voice, as if he already knew the answer and feared to hear the words spoken aloud.

"He will be," the Ranger promised. He sounded certain enough to convince Pippin, which was the important thing. Fortunately, Pippin was a very hopeful person, a trait which made everyone love him. He and Merry both shared that, which came in handy in a potentially fatal situation.