Author's Note:
Alrighty. The next chapter is up. Enjoy :)
Disclamier: Tolkien owns LOTR
Chapter 14 - Departure and Minas Tirith
Okay, well, we were back again in my new room, with the three young versions of Eowyn, Eomer and Theodred on my bed as I sat cross-legged in front of them after dinner.
King Théoden had kindly given me a set of male clothing just my size right in my request during the feast and I changed immediately after that, feeling a surge of happiness. I was quite glad that King Théoden and his family accepted my presence in quite err… easily, though they asked me tons of usual questions.
"Why do you like to wear male clothing Lady Jacqueline, I mean, you are a woman! You should be wearing dresses!" Eomer said in confusion as I gave a laugh at his image of women in general.
"You mean Eomer that women are even not allowed to dress anything that belongs to a male although they are not allowed to do rough activities like sword fighting and stuff because they are inferior to Men? That is quite disappointing of you, looking at us women so poorly… I thought you are an open-minded sort of person when I first met you three…" I said in mock disappointment and looked slightly offended. Eomer blushed deeply and apologized, though he murmured, "I just believed the fighting should be left alone by Men that's all. Men are after all stronger than women."
"That's quite true too," I agreed, "But you may never know what tricks a woman can pull to win a battle, like seduction…" I trailed off, looking at Eomer, who caught my meaning and blushed a deeper shade of red.
Eowyn looked at me with slight awe and I gave her a wink before laughing again.
"Don't worry, it's not like I am putting you down with my words Eomer. But, no offence. Well, I just like wearing such dressing. You heard from Gandalf of my origins. In my world, we, both male and females are given the freedom to dress and do what we like. Girls can learn to do what men do and dressed in shirts and shorts, whereas men can also do what women can, like cooking!" I said merrily as I hugged the pillow that was found on my bed. Eomer gave a look of pure horror, (which I believe on the thought of men doing women stuff) whereas Eowyn and Theodred gave a look of pure interest.
"Tell us more of your world Lady Jacqueline, we did not managed to hear much after Father and Gandalf send us back to our rooms to converse privately. We will love to hear more about your world!" Theodred said excitedly, his face beaming.
During the feast, I had found out that Eomer was the oldest of the three, eleven. Whereas Eowyn and Theodred were eleven and ten respectively, though they both born on the same year. Though Theodred may be younger in age, his maturity in thinking and actions was surprisingly high for his age. Though he may live up to his father's expectations as his heir, he was still a curious child at heart.
"Hmm… where should I start… but before that, don't you kids have to sleep early? I mean, it's kind of late." I stated matter-of -fact as I looked out of the window into the darkness.
"Yes, but tonight, I am sure Uncle will make an exception. It's rare for guests to come and stay in Edoras, especially a guest of many surprises like you Lady Jacqueline!" Eowyn replied with a small grin as Eomer nodded with excitement too. I smiled at them fondly, after all I liked being around with children, makes me feel young at heart again.
"Alright then, how about I tell you children of tales and stories from my world? It's more… suitable in a place like this. We can have a sleepover if you children like?" I grinned, feeling immensely pleased at the idea. Perhaps I can get to know them better this way.
"Sleep……over?" Eomer said in confusion.
"Yes my dear boy, sleepover! It's err… a night where we shall gather in a room and tell stories and sing songs until we are too tired and sleep." I explained and Theodred and Eomer protested, saying that they as men, should not sleep in the same room as the ladies, for it was inappropriate and quite true it was.
"Alright then, since it's like that, then let each of us say a story that we heard or read in our lives and till Gandalf or your uncle and father come and tell you kids to sleep, we will stop. How's that sound?" I said finally, receiving excited nods from the three and I grinned.
"Well, let the STORY TELLING BEGINS! Let's see… ok I should tell you three this. If you don't like it, you can say so after the story, okay?"
They gave a nod and I smiled, taking a deep breath.
"Once upon a time, there lived a girl in a kingdom, with her stepmother and two stepsisters. Her father is always away on business trips to nearby kingdoms, but he never knew the wickedness his new wife had in her heart and she had always bullied his only daughter whenever his not around…."
I weaved my right hand gently into Eowyn's long golden hair as the girl slept on my lap, tired from the story telling. Eomer and Theodred slept at the other end of the bed, their backs facing each other as small snores could be heard from Eomer. In the end, they still fell asleep on my bed despite protests from the two boys and besides, my bed was pretty huge and could fit four people!
I laughed silently at the stories those three had told me much about, of the pranks they played on to the adults, especially once on King Théoden, involving blue dye and his hair, and of myths and legends of Rohan. I told them a fair share, of Cinderella (which all three do not like), Peter Pan (that definitely make them ask for more), my life at the Shire (they asked many questions on Hobbits and Frodo) and my journey to Rohan.
Just then, a knock was heard and Gandalf entered the room, amused at seeing the three children sleeping closely and peacefully at my bed. I gave a small grin and motioned him to keep silent. The wizard went to my desk and brought a chair close to my bed next to me before sitting down silently.
"We will be leaving tomorrow at sunrise; it will be a nonstop ride to Minas Tirith for around four days at the most." His gaze turned to me as I looked down towards Eowyn, who had somewhat become a little sister to me despite the short time. I was about to ask Gandalf what he and King Theoden talked about in my absence, but I kept that thought aside, believing it must be something I should not know.
"I see… so… Eowyn and Eomer… they are under Lord Théoden's wing is because…"
"Their parents were killed by orcs one year ago. Ambushed Lord Théoden said. Since then, he placed those two in his care…" He cast a knowing glance at me before settled on Theodred and Eomer, looking thoughtfully.
I looked at the sleeping Eowyn and turned my gaze to Eomer. "They have experienced much in their childhood…" and will experience things far worse later on… I gave a sad smile as I turned to Theodred, who slept noiselessly at the left corner of the bed. And Theodred… he will be gone…
I sighed and leaned back against the back of the bed, keeping all the images involving the fate of these three at the back of my mind. Those three children, like the hobbits, had made a spot in my heart, reminding me of my siblings and juniors in my secondary school back in my world, Eowyn especially, since I longed to have a younger sister to chat and joke around about girl stuff. What happens if I change their fate… What if… Middle Earth can still be saved, with lesser lives lost...
"You know of the three children's fate?" Gandalf whispered and I looked into his gaze before giving a solemn nod. "They and Lord Théoden… are involved in the fate of the One Ring, that's all I can say…"
"I see… no wonder why you looked as though you had met them and know them before..."
I said nothing as Gandalf stood up and took the large quilt that had been kicked to his side from the bed by Eomer. He placed them over the two boys and returned to his seat as I remained quiet, continuing stroking Eowyn's hair like how a mother would to her daughter.
"They are such prominent and essential characters in the story… and they are unreal in my world… all of you… and yet now, you all have become real…" So real… that I do not know if I am that strong hearted to see these people suffer and die… when I knew I could have helped them…
"We are real Child… we don't become flesh and human in your eyes," Gandalf said firmly, his grim eyes set on mine, before turning softer and more fatherly. He sat beside me on the bed and pulled my head to his broad, comforting shoulder.
"You are here now… put aside the battle of thoughts of realism and your fate here. I will be here to guide you in your life here… you are not alone in this world Jacqueline."
I thought back of my four hobbits and Bilbo and gave a small sigh. "Indeed, I am not alone… besides, I have you old man as a mentor and friend…"
Gandalf gave a small laugh. "Sleep Child… we will be leaving straight once the sun rises to Minas Tirith… for Frodo…" He stroked my hair gently as my weary eyes grew heavier. Dad…
"Hmm… alright… but can I… call you Dad?" I murmured as the sandman was setting his dust on me. Gandalf was silent.
"… You may Child… I shall be your Father… for tonight…"
I gave a small sad smile before my eyes closed for the night. A lone tear trailed down my cheeks unconsciously as I leaned further to his side and snuggled to his warmth.
"Goodnight… Dad…"
That night, I dreamt of my family... watching television in the living room as always, laughing together...
I placed Eowyn's head gently to the pillow and tucked her in as Gandalf had gone out to prepare the horse. I had already changed to my newly washed and dried black shirt and brown pants as I clipped my cloak to place and lifted the hood up. Just then, I heard a murmur coming from Theodred and another small snore from Eomer and I laughed silently at their innocent sleeping faces.
"Have a sweet dream you three. Although it may be one night, but… I am glad I can meet you all in your youths. Hope I can see you three again soon," I whispered as I took my already packed sack and drew out my handphone and on it.
After capturing their sleeping faces, I off it and gave a grin. If I ever returned to my world, this will be prove... that I had been to ME… and met all of them.
"Goodbye. Till next time." And the door closed.
"Good morning Gandalf. It looks like a good day ahead," I said as I climbed down the steps outside of the Hall. Gandalf was in front with Aurin and noticed my arrival.
"Indeed, seems like Valar is blessing us on our journey. Come, let us go Child," the wizard answered and I looked up at the orange golden sky that was welcoming the sun's rays to the land.
I wonder what lies for me in Minas Tirith… well, Jacqueline, enjoy the freedom and clear air while you still can.
I gave a laugh and jogged to him and Aurin, before being pushed up onto the horse with the wizard's help as usual.
"Seriously Child, you should lose some weight. It will do you good," Gandalf said as he sat behind me easily and held the reins.
"And miss watching you struggling to pull me up the horse, never my old friend." I laughed, receiving a snort. Gandalf was about to move the horse when we heard someone calling for us from the top of the stairs of the Hall.
"Théoden, good morning, thank you for your warm hospitality. I apologize for not able to stay for a few days more." Gandalf greeted to the King who gave an understanding smile. He wore less lavishly than yesterday, but his kingly image still remained.
I gave a low bow from my seat and greeted the King. "Thank you for accepting me, and giving me the clothes. They are really comfortable," I said and Théoden laughed.
"You are welcome Lady Jacqueline. I should be the one thanking you for accompanying my niece and nephew and my son during your short stay. I have never seen Eomer and Eowyn laughed or smiled this often. I thank you, as their uncle."
I flushed slightly, still unused being thanked by a King and nodded curtly. "I believed it's the other way round my lord. I should thank them for their companionship. Please tell them that if I ever drop by to Rohan again, I will visit Edoras if possible with Gandalf."
Théoden nodded and smiled. "I will. Both of you are welcome to my halls for a visit. I still have many things to ask you Lady Jacqueline of your world. Then, may you both be swift to your destination."
Gandalf smiled gratefully and with a wave of the reins, we were off, leaving the Halls of Medusel and eventually Edoras behind, towards the White City.
After five days of non-stop traveling through forests and vast fields and mountains, we finally reached the outskirts of Minas Tirith, the fabled and legendary White City stood in front of my eyes, tall, pure and majestic.
"Minas Tirith… the city of Kings…" Gandalf said from behind me as I stared at the White city that was joined together with the enormous mountain behind it. One thing to describe this, I must be damn lucky to be here…
I unconsciously let go of my breath that I held as Aurin brought the two of us down the final hill and sped across the last stretch of golden fields to the opened gate and into the city.
We rode up slope to the top of the city, passing the residents and guards who were looking at us curiously and suspiciously. The citizens here wore the same kind of dressing like the people of Rohan, just that their clothes are much brighter in colour.
Unluckily or not, I didn't get to watch the last of the epic trilogy… but yet, from fanfictions, I somewhat knew the main events in it… don't know if I should cry in joy or in sadness at my knowledge… I thought as I lowered my head to avoid my face being seen. But really, Minas Tirith is beautiful…like a white layered cake... now I am hungry again...
Once we reached the top of the city, we were greeted by a tall, white tree, its branches spreading at all areas as far as possible. But this tree had little leaves left on its branches, and it looked weary and weakened.
I widened my eyes. "Gandalf, this tree is…"
"Ahh… the White Tree of Minas Tirith, decended from the line of Galathilion, the first White tree made by Yavanna, the Giver of Fruits."
"You mean this Yavanna, or whoever she is, is a God?"
"A Vala in our terms. The Valar, or Illuvatar is the one who created everything. She is an offspring from his line, the Queen of Earth. Isildur, son of Elendil, the last King of Gondor, had managed to obtain a seedling from Galathilion's last offspring before it was destroyed and grew it in his courts. That seeding grew in Minas Ithil, just there, can you see, near the borders of Mordor," Gandalf said as he pointed to the dark looking towers at the edges of the black mountains. I could see the menacing orange glow of fire bursting from the cracks of the mountains and I shivered. I nodded to Gandalf and he continued.
"But alas, at 2002 the third age, the Tower of Moon, now renamed as Minas Morgul, was captured by the Nazgul and that seedling which grew, was destroyed again. But luckily another of its seedling was saved and it is this tree that stood before the Tower of Ecthelion, where we are now. But now… the lineage of Kings has been broken… and the White Tree has already begun to wither…" Gandalf trailed off, his coal eyes turned to me and gave a sad smile. "Now Minas Tirith is ruled by the Steward , Lord Denethor the second, in place of the King."
I kept quiet, absorbing much of the information given as Gandalf steer Aurin to the entrance of the Tower of Ecth…. Whatever Gandalf called that building and came down from the horse. I was about to do the same when the wizard stopped me.
"I shall go in and seek audience with Lord Denethor by myself to use Gondor's secret libraries. Take Aurin with you to an inn called Velour's Inn, it's at the fifth level of the city, with a large sign, you can not miss it. That inn welcomes all who travels far to Minas Tirith and the innkeeper is too my trusted friend." Gandalf said with a tight smile as he fumbled through his sleeves.
"So… I am not allowed to follow you to the libraries? I can help, I am quite good in searching for information in books," I said , hoping Gandalf would take me along, for I did not know what to do by myself alone in this place. The wizard gave a soft laugh and smiled reassuringly. His wrinkled hand redrew from the insides of the sleeves, revealing a folded letter and a small pouch.
"I will be fine myself. Do not fear. Here you are still safe, even if Mordor is at our doorstep. You have never dreamt of Sauron again after I cast that spell right?"
I nodded my head hesitantly. "yeah…" But I fear… that with me being so close to Mordor…
Gandalf gave a sigh and furrowed his eyebrows, as though thinking twice on his decision on letting me stay in the inn by myself. "I have… suspicion on Lord Denethor… and with that, I cannot allow your presence made known to him... but still, I believed it's wise for me to go by myself to the libraries."
Well, at least I can get to explore Gondor myself, I thought as I nodded finally. "Alright then, I shall wait for you in the inn. But, can I leave the inn? To explore perhaps."
Gandalf gave a grim shake on his head. "You cannot Child. Remember, you are not meant to be known to the enemy of your whereabouts. Sauron has found you once in your dreams with his powers, already knowing of your presence here in Middle Earth. Mordor has many spies… we may not know if there are some here, but if rumors of you here reaches to Sauron…"
"Yes, yes… I understand Gandalf, I will be captured by his minions and sent to his lair to meet my doom," I said, my heart clenched at my loss of freedom even in Minas Tirith, "but… can I at least go out to explore, just for a day or two at random, I promised not to reveal my face and my origins and knowledge to anyone!"
Gandalf looked into my pleading eyes and finally gave a sigh in defeat. "Fine, but not too often. Make sure you keep your hood up at all times. Luckily, Gondor have many travelers that still kept their identities secret with their hoods… But just… be careful Child. I cannot rush to your safety immediately since I am no longer by your side." With that he ruffled my hair, which had become a common act of him to do so and gave a fatherly smile.
"I am not a baby anyway for you to protect me 24/7 old friend. I am seventeen! An adult already in fact. I will be alright. Just go to the libraries at peace." With that, I took the letter and the pouch from his hand and gave a confident grin.
"Then, pass this letter to the innkeeper. He will know what to do. And there's some gold in the pouch for your expenses. I believed… we should be staying here for at least a year or two…" Gandalf instructed before he withdrew his staff from the side of Aurin and let it support him. "I am sure by now you know how to ride Aurin by yourself."
I gave a nervous smile and nodded. "I should be… then… I shall go on my way then. See you soon." With a wave of the reins lightly, Aurin gave a small snort and started moving towards the path down slowly.
I turned behind and waved to the wizard, who waved back, smiling at me before knocking on the gate and revealing two guards, who let him in after some questioning. I returned my gaze to the front and gave an excited grin.
"So it's just you and me Aurin, seems like I have to know you a little more better," I said to the horse and patted the side of his face. Aurin neighed, as though he understood me and the situation now. I laughed and waved the reins with more strength and Aurin picked up his pace to a reasonable one.
Well, one thing I had to say was that, I was afraid of was riding, especially on tall horses and other animals… okay, so I was not fond of many things. But, since I was here, I might as well started learning some skills, who knows what path lies on me ahead…
"It's getting more and more exciting, Aurin my friend. Now, to Valour's Inn!" I cried excitedly as Aurin began to galloped slowly down to my destination.
But one thing I did not notice was a figure standing at the entrance of the Tower, black bottomless eyes gazing towards me before it disappeared with the wind…