Story Downloaded from Open Scrolls Archive (https://www.openscrolls.net)

Title: The Dare (#626)
Author: Saelind
Chapters: 25
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Archive: Tolkien
Category: Lord of the Rings
Description: The events in ROTK as seen through the eyes of a young woman who takes up her brother's challenge...
Characters, events and visuals borrowed from The Books and the movies.  All belong to JRR Tolkien and New Line
Published: 15 Feb 2004
Updated: 26 Feb 2007
Warnings: Some violence, medical descriptions and a wee bit
Type: General
Characters: Most of those in ROTK; Faramir, Eowyn, Gandalf, Ar


Chapter 1 - In the beginning

It began as a dare. My twin brother and I were sparring at the armory one afternoon. While we were catching our breath, he said, "You may be good on the practice field, Eolind�, but I doubt you could last a foray with the Rangers in Ithilien." He had a martial twinkle in his eye. He knew he was goading me.

"I beg to differ brother. Who shoots the truer arrow? And did not Father train me in the use of the sword and spear? Am I not a shieldmaiden?"

True but have your skills ever really been put to the test? Its one thing to kill predators or spar with me and my friends, but it is quite another to kill a man.” he said soberly.

“You don’t think I could do it, do you?” I asked.

“No, I don’t think you could.” he said wiping down his sword. I was shocked.

“Well then I will just have to prove you wrong won’t I? I will go with the Rangers on the next foray! I think you underestimate me, Elred.”

“And just how do you plan on joining the party?” he asked with a smile.

“I’ll disguise myself. I can be your cousin. I’ve done it before you know.”

“Yes, I know. But this is different. Captain Faramir is no fool. You’ll have to be very careful.”

“I can be careful.” Elred just shook his head.

A week later I found myself dressed in the brown, green and grey of the Ithilien Rangers. Elred borrowed clothing from various sources. I wore a binder across my chest to hide my feminine form. I knew to speak as little as possible. Luckily, I could ride my horse, Halan. I look up at the dawning sky remembering the past.

Our mother is one of the Rohirrim, a breeder and trainer of horses. Our father was a man of Gondor. He fell in love with the plains of Rohan and our mother’s golden hair. Or so he says. We both have our mother’s fair hair and our father’s grey eyes. Growing up in Rohan, we rode practically before we walked. During the winter, Father would tell us of Minas Tirith, the White Tower, and the long war with the Shadow. Father began training Elred to fight just after our sixth summer. I begged to be allowed to train with him. Elred and I are closer than most brothers and sisters having been born twins. We did almost everything together. Mother added her voice. She said that in troubled times a woman must be able to defend herself and her house. Besides, if the King’s niece was being trained as a shieldmaiden why should our daughter not also? Father relented.

In our twelfth summer, Elred and I were allowed to accompany our parents to Minas Tirith. It was our first trip to the city. We could hardly contain our excitement. But my excitement was short-lived. Suddenly, instead of riding and practicing with my bow, I was forced to spend time with my cousins who were concerned about sewing and suitors. They looked down on me being part Rohirrim. I hated it. Then one day, I wandered into the Houses of Healing. A wise woman saw me and soon I was learning the craft of healing. My relatives were no happier with this choice of occupation than my sword fighting. My parents were more accepting. A trained healer would be welcome in the Southfold.

I also spent time in the libraries researching what I could and learned from whomever would teach me. My brother struggled also, being part Rohirrim. He had to defend his honor many times. In our fifteenth summer, Elred was accepted into the Rangers and would stay to train with them.

One afternoon, as I puzzled over some text in Numenorean, a man came up to me. “Would you like some help with that?” he asked kindly. He had dark grey eyes and an air of command.

“Oh yes, sir. I only know a little of this speech.” He patiently translated it for me.

“So you are studying to be a healer? “ he asked after he finished.

“Among other things. I am Eolind� and I am a shieldmaiden of Rohan also.” I said proudly.

“Well met, Eolind�. I am Faramir, Captain of the Rangers.” I was stunned. The Steward’s son! I blushed at my brash words. He laughed gently.

“You are the daughter of Telemnir, are you not?” he asked.

I looked down. “Yes, I am.”

“Your brother, Elred, is going to be training with us then?”

“Yes.”

“Well Eolind�, daughter of Telemnir, well met.” he said smiling, no derision in his face.

“Well met, Captain Faramir.” I said looking back. Then a messenger came for him and he left. My girlish heart was touched and I treasured the memory of this meeting. I nursed the memory until he became my ideal of a man.

The parting from Elred was hard. We had been almost inseparable for fifteen years but he wanted to do it. I saw the joy and pride in his eyes when he spoke of Captain Faramir and Rangers. So, I smiled through the pain and was happy for my brother.

For five more years, I came to visit with the horse sales. I always practiced with Elred and his friends. Elred took great pleasure in setting up a contest and watching me best someone. Unfortunately, my grandmother and aunts did not approve of my activities and let my parents know it. I was sat down and told that I should put away my bow and sword. I was to start thinking about getting married. I was horrified. My parents reluctantly agreed. I was to start acting like a lady and try to find a husband. I took Elred’s dare out of desperation to escape their plans.

I also tried to catch glimpses of Faramir during those years. The opportunity to speak to him was rare but did happen. When I was eighteen, Elred had set up a shooting match between his friend Dior and myself. Ten arrows each. I managed to get eight in the center versus Dior’s seven. As Dior was getting ribbed, Faramir strolled up. My heart practically leaped out of my chest.

“What is this all about?” he asked with mock seriousness. The young men were startled.

“We had a shooting contest, sir.” Dior said.

“A shooting contest. Who was it? A pair of my Rangers I hope.”

“Well one of them was. Myself, sir.”answered Dior.

“The other? Not one of my brother’s men?”

“ No sir. It was Elred’s sister, Eolind�.”

Faramir raised his eyebrows as the men stepped aside to reveal me.

“And who won?” he asked.

“She did.” Dior replied.

“And what did you win, my lady healer?” Faramir asked me.

“A bottle of wine from Lossarnach, sir. You remember me?” I said looking at him with surprise.

“Of course, it isn’t often that I get translate a treatise on wound care.” He said smiling. “Enjoy your wine, Lady Eolind�. And Dior, maybe she could help you improve your aim.” Then he strolled away. The men demanded I explain myself. I told them the story of meeting Faramir in the library. I blushed furiously and I paid for my victory with endless teasing.


Chapter 2 - Ithilien

Chapter 2

 The pale sun sent streaks of light across the sky. The light was warm but it was cool enough to see the horses’ breath. Elred brought my horse Halan. He was a small for a warhorse, not much to look at really. What he didn’t have in looks, he made up for in heart. He could hold his own against many a larger warhorse. I had trained Halan from the time he was a foal and we understood each other. He nuzzled me in anticipation of the adventure ahead. Elred looked at me as if to say, “Do you still want to do this?” Once we passed the outer gate there was no going back. I nodded and smiled. My hair was dyed with vegetable dye to a pale golden brown. The hood of my grey-brown wool cloak was pulled up over my face. I made an effort to stay in the background. I recognized a few of Elred’s friends, Penedir, Artamir, Arasuil and Dior. I had to be extra cautious. I could not risk any of them recognizing me.

A mummer went through the men as the captain rode up. He dismounted and spoke to each man in turn. He finally came to Eored and myself. “And who is this, Elred? I’ve not seen him before.” I looked up into a familiar face. It was the man from the library! Captain Faramir. My heart dropped. My adventure would be over before it began. “He is my mother’s sister’s son, sir. His name is Reyes.” He looked at me carefully. His eyes full of interest and concern. “Are we so pressed that we must take mere boys on our forays?”

 “Oh Reyes only looks young. He is a fine archer and he also has some training in leechcraft.” Elred spoke earnestly glancing at me sideways. Faramir looked from me to Elred and laughed. “Well, since you come so highly recommended Reyes, I would be remiss if I left you behind.” He looked searchingly at me one last time and then he turned around. “Mount up! We have a long ride ahead us.” My breath whooshed from my body. I hadn’t realized I was holding it.

We rode all day, stopping only briefly for a bite of food and a swallow of water. We left the civilized areas of Minas Tirith quickly and Cair Andros came into sight. We crossed the fords of the Anduin at twilight and made camp. Riding is always a pleasure but the binder across my chest became uncomfortable as the day wore on. I was looking forward to taking it off. “Be on your guard , sister.” Elred whispered. I preformed my ablutions under the cover of the gathering darkness. The stars appeared. I lay on my roll seeing them. They were in slightly different places than where I would see them at home in the Southfold. A wave of homesickness came over me. A voice interrupted my reverie and I sat up quickly.

“And how is our new recruit?” asked Captain Faramir. Elred glanced up from the fire with fear in his eyes. My mouth was dry and my throat tried to close up. I managed to utter something. “Well, I enjoy riding, sir.” He smiled, his grey eyes scrutinizing me. “Enjoy it while you can, son. There will be rough going later.” He patted me on the shoulder. His hand seemed to burn through my clothes and a tingle went down my spine. Needing to calm myself, I went for a short walk. I glimpsed the Captain sitting on a boulder, watching the night sky. He looked so alone. I went back to my roll, lay down and dreamed of grey eyes.

Chapter 3

I felt his arms around me, his lips on mine, my heart sang and the world was bright and lovely. I heard a low bird call and felt a sharp poke in my ribs. I grunted and Elred whispered in my ear,” Get up slugabed, the sun will be up shortly and you must be ready.” I willed myself awake, got my things and stumbled into the woods. As I put on my binder, memories of the dream flitted through my head. I blushed at the memory, my face flushed in the cool dawn. Then my heart sank. I knew that he would never look at me twice if we met in the City. He was a great captain, son of the Steward, and I, and an unladylike woman of mixed blood. “No bloody chance!” I sighed and returned to camp.

The day was fair and bright. The sun shone warmly as we rode south shadowing the Harad Road. Ithilien was the garden of Gondor. Though the Enemy had driven the people from the land, the land was not defeated. Trees, bushes and plants grew in silent defiance. Spring was coming. I marveled at the landscape. Such sights were new for one used to the broad plains of Rohan. The healer in me awoke. I began searching for medicinal plants I knew must be here. I had to be careful though. If I stopped to long, I would get caught or worse left behind. I came up next to Elred.

“I want to gather herbs if I see them. Can you watch for me?” I asked quietly. Elred frowned but shook his head in agreement. He knew my skill and that what I gathered, might be needed later. I spotted some athelas, a prize to be sure. As I was kneeling down to harvest the plant, I heard hooves and Halan whickered. I didn’t look up assuming it was Elred. “I’ll only be a moment, Elred. I have found some athelas that I must have.”

“What is athelas, Reyes? Is this why you keep falling behind?” I looked up, startled. Faramir looked down from his horse, a curious look on his face. Elred rode up and saw the scene.

“My apologies, sir. Reyes is a trained healer. He probably couldn’t resist the urge to gather herbs.” As he spoke, Elred shot me a look of pure fury.

“I can well understand that. But you have not told me what athelas is.” He smiled gently

My throat dry from terror, I managed to growl out,”It’s known as ‘kingsfoil’, sir. It is prized among elvish healers.”

“Interesting. However, in the future, if you wish to stop for something, keep Elred or one of the others close by. We are in the wild. Who knows where the Enemy might be.”

My heart seemed to pounding so loudly I was sure he and Elred could hear it.

I finished gathering the athelas. I stored it carefully in my saddlebag. When I looked up, Faramir was still there waiting along with Elred. Elred had an odd look on his face. It was worry and amusement mixed together.

We began riding to catch up to the rest of the patrol. I tried to keep my eyes focused on the way ahead but my nerves were drawn tight as a harp string. I could hardly breath. One wrong move and my secret would be out. And yet, I comforted myself with the knowledge that as far away as we were from Minas Tirith, Faramir could hardly send me back now. Periodically, I glanced at Faramir. He was still the handsome man who had helped me that day in the library and replaced my father as my ideal man. And yet, there was an air of weariness around him. He seemed to carry a burden. I involuntarily sighed. He looked at me and asked who my parents were. I blinked and stammered out the names of some deceased relatives. Then he asked about our parents.



“I remember Telemnir. I heard he had fallen in love with a woman from Rohan. One of the breeders daughters I think.” I almost spoke and bit my tongue while Elred spoke, “Yes, sir.”

“It was quite a tale in the barracks. But having seen Hilde, I can well understand why. You have a sister do you not, Elred?” My heart skipped a beat and I held my breath.

“I do indeed Captain. Her name is Eolind� and my twin. She helps our parents with the horses. She is a shieldmaiden like the Lady Eowyn and is training to be a healer.”

“Ah yes! Now I remember. I helped her with some Numenorean in the library one afternoon several years ago. Twins! Well then, you must be very close.”

“Yes. In fact, it feels like she is here with me now. She is a very good archer and sometimes will spar with me or my friends.” I gasped at Elred’s dangerous words. Faramir turned sharply to face me.

“ Yes, Reyes?”

“Nothing Captain.”

“And what do you think of your cousin?” his eyes boring into me.

“Oh, she is quite a rider and archer. But, she is a woman and better suited for home and hearth than battle” I finished weakly.

“That may be true. But even a woman can have great strength and presence of mind.” Faramir replied. He looked at me intently and then galloped to the head of the column.

I breathed a sigh of relief.

“Elred! What were you thinking? You practically told him I was here!”

“Shh. I wanted to see if you could control you emotions under pressure. I loved your answer. ‘better suited for home and hearth.’ What a whisker!” He laughed.

“Well, I am not amused. And you know my thoughts on ‘home and hearth’.”

“Be careful though. I saw how you looked at him. Your heart was in your eyes and may be your undoing.” he said seriously.

“I will be careful. Let’s catch up with the others.” I said.

The rest of the day passed without incident though I would hear a chuckle from Elred periodically. All I could do was glare at him. We made camp in a glade. When it was dark, I went to the woods and took off the binder. Then I went to see Halan. I had given him a cursory rubdown earlier but now I could do it properly.

He greeted with a soft whiney. “Oh, I know. I should have been here sooner but I had to do some things.” I spoke Rohirric in a soft undertone. I began rubbing him down. “Oh Halan. Is this not amazing? We are riding in a real war party. And my Captain is leading it. He is so handsome. More than he was five years ago. I am sure I told you the story.”

“Reyes? Is that you?” asked a now familiar voice. I choked and looked up to see Faramir.

“Sir.” I said bowing my head.

“You are a true son of Rohan. You are taking care of your horse.” He said with a smile. A smile that caused my heart to skip a beat.

“Well, I take care of Halan. He takes care of me.” I said simply.

“Well said. Don’t mind me.” And he walked on toward a boulder and sat down.

My stomach did flips. Halan whickered and nudged my hand. I went back to my task.

As I left, I saw Faramir sitting on the boulder looking at the stars. He looked so forlorn and I heard him speak.

“O Boromir, my brother. Where are you? You have left home and sweetheart behind. We need you here. I need you.” I wanted to go to him, offer some comfort. But the charade would be broken and I couldn’t allow that. As I lay on my roll, I dreamed of one day being able to comfort him.


Chapter 3 - Waiting

Chapter 3

The waiting

I was up at dawn. The camp was alive with activity. Scouts had returned. A party of Haradrim had been seen coming up the road. They were a day away. It was not a large group and it had no mamaki. “Probably an advance column scouting the road.” remarked Elred as he finished some bread and water. Dior, one of Elred’s friends came by to tell us that Faramir had decided to stay here and meet the column in the morning. I busied myself with my gear. “Elred, aren’t you going to introduce me to your cousin.” He asked. I panicked. “Of course. Reyes, this Dior, son of Eldacar of the Citadel Guard.”

“Pleased to make your acquaintance.” He said reaching out his hand.

“And I yours.” I said gruffly, hoping he wouldn’t recognize me. I, of course, knew him very well. I had sparred with him and spent time with him and Elred. We shook hands and then someone called out his name. He left to answer the summons. Elred and I breathed a sigh of relief. Then I giggled.

“Imagine being introduced to someone I had known for years. And he didn’t know it was me.” I spoke with mirth.

“True enough. But your luck is not going to hold out forever, “cousin”.”

“I know. I’ve got to keep out of sight today.” I said seriously.

“Volunteer to gather firewood or hunt some game.” Elred suggested. “I will come with you. We’ll hide out in the forest for a little while.”

“But I can’t very well do that all day. I’ll be missed.” Elred chewed his lip while trying to think.

“We’ll just have chance it. If you just keep moving and don’t talk much, maybe you will get by.” he said.

So Elred went to one of the sergeants to explain what we were going to do. My stomach tied itself in knots while I waited. Elred came back with a happy look on his face.

“What is it? What happened?”

“Oh Mablung was fine with it. Though Captain Faramir suggested you go look for plants too.” He said mischievously.

“You spoke to Faramir.” I asked incredulously.

“That’s Captain Faramir to you. And he just happened to overhear what I said. Don’t look so worried.” he said. “He doesn’t know.”

We spent the morning gathering firewood and hunting both plants and animals. I found a bit of lavender, chamomile and feverfew. A few rabbits also found our arrows. In the afternoon, we prepared our weapons. I checked my bow and arrows. I had found some wood in the morning and made a few extras. I took out my sword. My father had it especially made for me. It had the heads of two horses curving toward the hilt. On the pommel, a small white tree was embossed. “I wanted your sword to have symbols from both sides of your ancestors.” My scabbard was too recognizable with its scrollwork so I had borrowed a plain one from the armory. I stood in line to have it sharpened. Mercifully, no one tried to make conversation with me. 

Soon night come down. There were few fires and in general the camp was quiet. Everyone sensed that a battle was coming the next day. I went to give Halan a final rubdown. “You know we’re going into battle tomorrow.” I said as I stroked his muscled sides. He whinnied in reply. “Well, yes, I know you’re up for it. But the question is, am I?” Halan whickered in greeting and I turned around and saw Faramir. He patted Halan’s flank as he walked up to me.

“First battle, eh Reyes?” he said.

Despite the lump in my throat, I was able to muster a “Yes, sir.” He put his hand on my shoulder and his face was full of concern. “Understand Reyes, that real battle is not like it is in songs and tales. It is noise, blood and death. There is no honor in killing for the sake of killing. Do not be foolish and rush in thinking to gain renown. It is a sure way to die.” I nodded, captivated by the gentle yet stern face before me.

“Do you give all your new Rangers the same speech sir.” I said daringly. He laughed and smiled.

“As a matter of fact. I do.” Then he patted my shoulder and walked away. I smiled in spite of myself. At that moment, Elred walked up.

“Why do you have that silly grin on your face? Don’t you know we’re going into a battle?” he said.

My smile disappeared and I replied. “Yes! I do know! Captain Faramir was giving me some advice.”

“Oh did he now?” He said with a knowing gleam in his eye. Feeling flustered, I snapped, “He was giving me the “new Ranger” speech if you must know.”

“Oh yes the one about not chasing after glory and getting yourself killed.” He said in a serious tone.

“Yes that one.”

“Good. If he didn’t do it, I would have. Eolind�, if anything were to happen to you…” a look of pain crossed his face. I took his hands in mine.

“Elred. Trust me enough to know that I won’t do anything foolish. Father taught me well. And I have Halan.” I said. Elred smiled and stroked Halan’s nose.

“Halan, you take good care of her, you hear.” Halan whinnied and nodded his head in reply which made both of us laugh. I hugged him and said, “Shall we get some rest. Tomorrow will come soon enough.” We walked back to our rolls and lay down to sleep.


Chapter 4 - Blood and Glory

The day had dawned clear and crisp like it had all the other mornings. The air was clean was the faint scent of growing things. And we had to fight this day. I thought. The camp was alive with activity. Scouts had returned with more precise news. The column of Haradrim was indeed coming up the Harad Road to the Black Gate. I stood by Halan stroking his muzzle waiting for Elred. He came up and started to put on Beleg’s bridle. “Those of us who are gifted riders are to be held in reserve. The others would attack the column. Then at the sound of the horn we attack from the rear and mow them down.” He said with a martial light in his eyes.

I saddled up Halan. I saw Artamir and Arasuil also mount up. There were a few others I didn’t recognize but they all seemed to know their business. I sat on Halan in the cover of the woods. Sunlight filtered through the trees. I saw the Haradrim troops coming up the road in ragged rows. I heard the noise of the fight begin. I began to realize that this was no game. It was real and I was in it. I could not run or hide. A cold ripple of fear went down my spine. “What was I thinking? Can I really do this?” I thought to myself. “Well, it’s too late to turn back now.” Visions of the wide plains of Rohan, my mother’s hair in the breeze, my father’s smile and the White City passed before my eyes. I then saw the land barren and the light of the White City extinguished. That was what would happen if the Enemy had it’s way. My spine stiffened and I found my courage in the midst of my fear. “That must not happen.” And I was going to do my part in preventing it. I heard the horn call, pressed my knees to Halan’s sides and entered the fray.

I notched my green fletched arrows and fired automatically. Halan and I had done this as a drill many times with straw men as targets. But the sound of arrow entering a man’s flesh is different from an arrow hitting a hapless straw man. And the straw men do not scream. Sounds and images impressed themselves in my memory. The loud voices of Faramir’s men mingled with the guttural yells of the Haradrim. The bright red spurt of blood as a sword cuts and thrusts. The sickening crunch of bones being broken beneath my horse’s hooves. I fired at anything that was crimson. How many hit their targets I could not tell. One of the enemy soldiers tried to attack me with his sword. I parried the blow as Halan sidled away. The tang of blood and bowel began to fill the air.

Suddenly, in the midst of the chaos, I saw clearly one of our number, Dior, surrounded by three Haradrim. He looked like he was getting the worse end of the fight. He had become separated from the main action. And there was no one near by to come to his aid. I had spent my arrows. I pressed Halan’s sides and rode toward the group. I hacked at the arm of one of the three. I felt my blade bite into his bone. I yanked it back. He screamed as Halan’s back hooves kicked him. Halan made a sharp turn and headed back to the group. “We have to get him, Halan. You must carry us both.” He snorted a reply. As we came upon the group, I shouted, “Dior grab hold!” He looked up, jumped, grabbed my hand and I hauled him up on Halan. One of the two remaining fighters tried to slash at Dior but hit Halan instead. He kept going in spite of it. Dior hung over Halan’s neck. A few others tried to hit us but I was able to parry the blows.

The Haradrim began fleeing and soon the call came to fall back into the woods. We rode hard back to our camp. As Dior and I dismounted, he looked at me and said in a shocked voice. “You’re a woman!”

“What do you mean?” I replied not looking at him as I tried to check Halan’s wound.

“Your voice gives you away.” He pulled me to face him and my cloak’s hood fell back.

“By the Valar! Eolind�! What are you doing here?”

“Saving your life apparently!” I looked at him blazing with anger and fear that I had been unmasked.

“My lady. I meant no disrespect. Indeed, I am grateful for what you did. Are all the women of Rohan so brave?” he said quietly. His grey eyes were full of admiration. As I was looking at Dior, he fell forward. I rushed over to him and noticed a spreading red stain along his left side. Throwing caution to the wind, I called out. “Eored! Someone, anyone!” I took my dagger and slit his tunic and shirt. One the Haradrim had run his sword under Dior’s hauberk and stabbed at him below the ribs. The ragged cut was not large but it ran deep.

“What is it, Eolind�?” I looked up and saw Faramir. He knew! By the White Tower what was I going to do?

“Captain, sir, I can explain…” I looked into his concerned eyes.

“Explanations can wait. Right now you need to be a healer.” He said earnestly. Dior moaned and my attention was drawn back to him.

“I need my box of medicinals and some hot water. And find Elred please. Halan has been hurt also. He will know what to do.” I took off my cloak and pressed it to the wound to staunch the bleeding.

As I held pressure against Dior’s side, I looked him over for any other wounds. His raven black hair was stark against his pale face. He grimaced with pain but did not speak. Faramir reappeared with my kit and some water. Elred and Penedir accompanied him. “Elred, see to Halan please.” Elred nodded and led Halan away. “Penedir, please hold here while I prepare the poultice.” He nodded and placed his hands on the cloak to maintain the pressure.

I opened my box and drew out some dried horsetail leaves. I tossed them in the water. I drew out small bottles of finely ground lavender and comfrey. The horsetail leaves formed a mash, which I then molded, into a pad. “Penedir, release your hands, slowly and be ready to hold if he is bleeding heavily.” As the cloak was pulled gently away, it was still oozing blood though not as much. I quickly sprinkled the ground herbs in the wound and covered it with the poultice. He moaned with pain as I pressed the pad into the hole in his side. I covered the poultice with a square of unbleached linen and secured it with strips around his torso. I took a small flask from the kit. “Penedir, hold him up so he can swallow.” Dior’s eyes fluttered open revealing his dark gray irises. I poured a small cap full of the clear liquid. “Dior, drink this, it will ease your pain for a little while.” As he took a swallow, he coughed. I gave him one more. Then his eyes closed and Penedir helped me lay him on his cloak. I washed my hands in the basin. I looked up and saw a dozen faces staring back at me. “What are there others hurt? I can come now.” Their faces blanched and I realized too late that I hadn’t disguised my voice. The game was really up this time. Faramir broke through the circle of stunned men. “What are all you doing standing around here? We have fought a battle and you stand around like courtiers.” At that, the men scattered. Faramir turned to me. “Will he be alright?”

“I do not know my lord. He has lost much blood. He is strong and has a chance to recover if the wound does not fester. I do not know how deep it was.” A sigh escaped him and he seemed to look at something far away.

“Are there others that need to be tended, sir?”

“Oh yes. I was coming to get you.” I accompanied him to see to the others. Most of the wounds were slight. There were a few who were beyond my aid and I closed their eyes to this life. Mourning them would come later.


Chapter 5 - A Kiss

Chapter 5 A Kiss

It was twilight before I could see to Halan.  I checked his flank where the sword had cut him.  Elred had dressed it well.  He would probably have a scar. Despite the injury, he was feeling frisky and began nudging me for a carrot.  
“I have no carrots for you right now.  But when we get back to Minas Tirith, you shall have your fill.”  I began to brush him.
“You did well today.  A true horse of Rohan.”  He shook his head at me. “Don’t be getting too proud now.” He whinnied back at me.  I laughed.  Despite everything that had happened that day, it felt good to laugh.  To speak with my natural voice.

The men had given me a wide berth after my sex became common knowledge.  The wounded ones gruffly acknowledged me but the general dismay of the company was palpable.  I saw Faramir speaking to Elred.  I berated myself for not considering the consequences of my actions on Elred.  I tried to say something to him.  But he waved me off. “I knew what we were getting into. I will be fine.”

“Mistress Eolind�.”  A gentle voice called.  I turned and saw Faramir standing near by with a trencher of bread, stew and flask of wine.  “When did you last eat?” he said smiling.  My breath caught in my throat.  How was it that this man can fight in a battle and still look so handsome? My stomach rumbled audibly. I had been caught up with treating the wounded that I forgot to eat. The tension was broken as we both laughed.  He led me to a log nearby and placed the food in my hand. He sat across from me.

“Captain, I…” He waved his hand.

“We will talk after you eat.” 

I devoured the bread and stew.  The wine warmed me. As I finished, I looked up and saw Faramir’s face.  He seemed to be thinking about something.
“Captain Faramir, sir.  I do not know what to say…” He looked at me with mild disapproval.  

“I knew your father as friend.  Because of that friendship, I will not scold you nor did I scold your brother.  Though I did ask him if he had any other “cousins” I needed to know about.”  I looked down at the ground and my heart pounded in my chest.
“You see, I knew it was you from the morning of the muster.”  My mouth dropped open and my eyes widened with shock.  I looked at him.

“You knew?  But how?”  I asked, my voice trembling.

“My lady.  I would never have allowed a complete stranger to join the Rangers on foray.  Your disguise was very good but I knew Eored had a twin sister who could fight and had an interest in healing.  And, despite your efforts to the contrary, you had too much grace in your walk to be a man. It only could have been you.” He finished with a smile.

“Then why did you let me come?” I asked, standing up.

“I assumed you had a good reason and you did nothing to attract attention to yourself.  I trusted Elred’s judgement.  But I did worry that when it came time to fight.”

“I am sorry for causing you to worry.  It was never my intention to cause anyone to worry.”  Faramir stood up, took my chin in his hand and looked at me.

“Then why did you do it?” he asked.  His grey eyes bored into my soul.

“Elred dared me to do it.  I know that sounds silly but it’s the truth.”  I stuttered out.  He looked stunned and his hand left my chin.

“A dare?  You did this on a dare?” he roared.  His eyes were hard.

“Well that wasn’t the only reason.  I wanted to see if I could really fight not just spar or do drills.  I needed to find out if I was capable of defending my home and loved ones if need be.”  I trailed off apologetically.  His look softened.  

“And are you?” he asked.

Yes, I am.  But I found that I prefer to heal injuries, than inflict them.”

“Well there are several here that are grateful for your abilities to heal.  There is no telling how Dior might have fared if you had not come to his aid.”

“You were right.  Battle is not glorious.  It’s dirty and bloody and wasteful.  Herion, Berelach and Ondohal are dead.  They leave behind loved ones.  We can’t even take their bodies back to Minas Tirith for a decent burial.”  There were tears in my eyes as the memories of the fight flooded back.  Faramir put his arms around me.  My tears fell on his shoulder.

As my tears slowed, I became aware of Faramir’s presence.  There was a familiar comfort to the odors of leather, wood and horse. I reluctantly pulled away.  Wiping my eyes with a spare strip of bandage, I said, “I am sorry. I did not intend to turn into a weeping willow.”

“Many a new soldier has broken down after their first battle. I would have had more concern for you if you had not.,” he said gently.

Our eyes met and the air seemed to grow thick.  He put his arms around me and I felt his lips on mine.  There was such sweetness in that kiss.  He kissed me again more deeply.  I could feel his sorrow and his passion.  It was if I had taken a large drink of monscinan. My body grew warm and my blood pounded in my ears. No fumbling stable kiss had ever felt like this.  I did not know exactly what it was that I was feeling.  I just knew I did not want him to stop. 

Suddenly, it stopped.  Faramir had pulled away and his back was to me.  

“My lord, I… what…?” I put my hand on his arm.  He pushed my hand away.  I walked around to face him.  There was anguish written all over his face.

“No Eolind�!  I will not do this.  I will not dishonor the friendship I have with your father by dishonoring you.”

“But Faramir, I do not understand.  I do not feel dishonored.”  I was confused and shaken.  He looked at me with sympathy.

“I know.  For all your knowledge of the healing arts and war, you are still very much an innocent.  If we were to continue, I would use you to forget my cares.  It would not be as it should be between a man and a woman.  I can not and will not use you in that way.  I can not waver in my responsibilities.”

“Is it because I am not ladylike?” I asked.

“No.”  He clasped my hands and kissed them.  “Eolind�, you are both brave and lovely.  I would feel the same if we were in Minas Tirith and you were a lady of the court.  I can not take your innocence to ease my own pain.”  He dropped my hands and stepped back.

“Tomorrow at first light, I am sending the bulk of the company to Henneth Annun.  Those left, including myself, will escort you and the wounded back to Minas Tirith.  My heart is filled with dread.  War is coming, Boromir has been gone without word for too long.”  He looked at me steadily. “You will be needed, Eolind�.  Dior needs you.” He said earnestly.

My heat felt as though someone had run a knife through.  Weariness came over me.  “Yes, my lord.” I answered and I began walking back toward the camp. 

Faramir’s mention of Dior reminded me that I needed to check on my patients.  I made my way to Elred.  He had been keeping watch over the wounded.  I tapped him on the shoulder and he looked up concern on his face.  “How is Halan?” he asked quietly. 

“Halan? Oh yes, he is well. Thank you for seeing to him.”

“You are welcome.  Did Captain Faramir find you?” he asked innocently.

A flush crept over my face.  Thankful for the dim light, I replied, “Yes.  His friendship with our father spared us a good tongue-lashing.  And he knew it was me.”

“He knew!  But we were so careful.” Elred said with amazement.
“Not careful enough but it is over and done with.  I am going back to Minas Tirith with the wounded in the morning.  Most will be able to ride.  But Dior…” I trailed off.

“We will deal with it in the morning.  I need to ask though.  Are you all right?” he asked hesitantly.

“If you mean did I enjoy my experience of battle.  No, I did not.  I do not think I will be joining any more war parties.  Today has cured me of any desire for glory on the field of battle.  From now on, I will be a healer and fight only if necessary.” I said sadly.

I heard a sigh of relief from Elred.  “You are tired, Eolind�.  Get some rest.”

“What about my patients?” I asked.

“I will keep watch.  I will awaken you if anyone needs anything.” He replied.

I lay down on my roll and fell into a dreamless sleep.

monscinan = made up Anglo-Saxon word for moonshine

translation courtesy of Novedhelion


Chapter 6 - Riding back

The first light of morning brought me to wakefulness.  As I came to my feet, I noticed that every muscle in my body protested this movement.  It was as if I had been thrown from a horse not once, but several times.  I groaned and heard laughter.
�Artamir!  This isn�t funny!�  I cried to my brother�s friend and fellow horseman.
�Oh but it is!  The thrill of battle is gone so quickly,� he said in reply, winking at me.  He handed me a chunk of bread.  �I guess those battle songs of yours don�t tell you about the morning after do they?�  I grimaced and ate the bread.  Elred brought me some water.  As we ate and drank, we noted that all but a few of the company had mustered and were leaving the camp.

I checked on all my patients.  Most were able to ride.  Dior was not even conscious.  Artamir, Eored and I stood around trying to think of what to do.  Dior needed to be taken to Minas Tirith and quickly.  
�We can not use a sling.  The country is too rough and we have need of haste,� I said.

Faramir rode up.  �Why are you not ready to move out?  Are not all the wounded able to travel?� I glanced up at the face that had become so familiar.  He looked stern and remote. This was not the passionate man who had kissed me the night before.

�Dior is not, my lord.  He is still unconscious.  He can not ride.� I said quietly

�Elred, how strong is your horse, Beleg?�  he asked impatiently.

�Quite strong, my lord,� Eored replied.

�Would Beleg be able to carry Eolind� and Dior?�

�I believe he could though he would not move as quickly as he normally does.� 

�But you believe he could do it?�

�Yes, my lord.�

�There�s your answer Eolind�.  You will ride double with Dior on Beleg. We will leave very shortly.�  I opened my mouth to object but the look of annoyance in Faramir�s eyes stopped me. He rode away.

Elred brought Beleg and Halan to where Dior lay.  He removed the saddle and placed several blankets on his back instead.  �Thank the stars that Mother taught us to ride without a saddle.�  I commented. 
�True.  But riding without a saddle and hanging onto to an unconscious man. That is something else entirely.�  Elred had a worried look.
�I can do it, Elred.  I must.  And I am sure Beleg will take good care of us.�  I said as I patted Beleg�s nose.  He neighed and shook his head.  Artamir looked up in surprise.  �I have heard that the Rohirrim have a way with horses.  I had no idea that included speaking with them.�  
�Why not?  The relationship between horse and rider is a matter of life and death in our country.  Of course, we speak to them,� Elred said.
Elred packed his saddle onto Halan and gave me a leg up onto Beleg. Artamir and Elred maneuvered Dior onto Beleg as gently as possible.  As Elred mounted Halan and Artamir his horse, Dior stirred.  
�Eolind�?� he croaked.
�I am here Dior.  We are going back to Minas Tirith.  You and I are riding Beleg, Elred�s horse.  It is going to be a rough ride but it is the only way.�
�Oh.� and he fell unconscious again.
The call went out and we began our long ride back to the White City. 

We rode until the sun was high.  My shoulders were aching from holding onto Dior and my thighs were cramped from clinging to Beleg�s sides.  Faramir allowed us a short respite so I could check the wounded.  Elred and Artamir helped me get Dior down off Beleg.  He stirred as we laid him down.  His eyes opened and flashed a slight smile.  �I have to check your wound.  You may not be smiling at me afterwards.�  He nodded.

I lifted his shirt.  The wrap had some blood seeping into it. I unwrapped it further and lifted the bandage.  The wound had indeed opened up and was leaking blood.  I quickly made a new horsetail poultice including the lavender and comfrey powder to prevent festering.  There were no signs of that yet but the longer we stayed in the wild, the chances of it becoming putrid increased.  I longed for the Houses of Healing with their oils and herbals.  I only had a battlefield kit.  Ostoher�s arm had also started re-bleeding so I redressed that.  The rest were tired and in pain.  I gave everyone a sip or two from my flask of monscinan.  They sputtered and coughed but I knew that it would take the edge off the pain the wounded were feeling. I met Faramir�s eyes as I went about.  He was keeping watch and I could see he was anxious to go on.

 We started up again and rode until dark. By the time we stopped, my arms and legs were numb.  I could barely get off Beleg.  As Elred and Artamir got Dior, I tried to walk out my stiffness.  I stumbled and a hand caught me.  It was Faramir.  His hand burned through my shirt.  Oh why did he have to see me like this?

�Are you well, Mistress?� he asked concern in his eyes.

�Well enough for having ridden bareback and holding onto an unconscious grown man the entire time,� I spoke jestingly.  �It will pass.�

�Good.�  He replied with a smile and walked on.

When I checked Dior�s wrap and bandage, I was relieved to find that there was very little blood this time.  I made small cups of tea with willow bark and chamomile for all the wounded. Elred brought me some food. I ate by the fire and a sleeping Dior.  Elred went to see to our horses. I pulled a small pouch out of my pack.  It was a rather malodorous greasy rub usually used on horse strains.  I wrinkled my nose at the smell.  No one was going to want to be around me for a while.  I laughed when I thought of my oh so correct cousins.  I had no mirror but I knew my hair and clothes were a mess and I needed a proper bath badly.  I loosened my shirt and began rubbing the ointment on my shoulders.  �Aunt Iles would probably not even let me into the house smelling like this.�

�I do not think it is so bad.� A voice said while two hands began rubbing my shoulders.  I nearly jumped out my skin.

�My Lord Faramir.  You are being polite.  This concoction smells to the stars.  It�s only redeeming grace is that it works.�  I tried to keep my voice steady as I felt his hands.  My blood burned and I felt a flush creeping up my face.  He laughed and after a while my shoulders eased.

�Thank you my lord.  I feel much better now,�  I said as I quickly pulled the laces of my shirt together. He sat near me.  The heat I felt wasn�t just from the ointment.  Being near Faramir was causing me to have some most improper thoughts.  I needed to distract myself quickly.

�My father spoke with admiration about you and Boromir, my lord.�  Faramir looked chagrined at the words my lord.  �He said, �The Lord Boromir was a captain of men, bold and fearless, sometimes to the point of foolishness.  But the Lord Faramir, he was a captain also but he knew when to put the soldier aside. He would sing songs and jest with us at the end of the day.�  He also said that you would often bring a book on campaign.�

Faramir laughed.  �Your father is an observant man.  He was born here in Ithilien you know.�

�Yes, but his family fled when he was less than a year old.�

�He was a valiant fighter here.  But when he saw your mother��

�It was love at first sight,�  I chimed in.  �Eored and I have heard the story many times.� I said with a chuckle.

�My brother could never understand why your father left Minas Tirith for a mere woman.  And one of Rohan at that.� 

�And you?�

�Well, your mother was quite a beauty.  But more than that, your father seemed to find peace with her,� he said reflectively.

�Father always said that meeting Mother was like coming home.�  I looked at Faramir.  I saw a flicker of desire flash in his eyes.  The air grew still.  I wanted him to kiss me with every fiber of my being.  He leaned toward me.  
�By Helm�s hammer Eolind�, did you use that horse salve?  I can smell it from several feet away. How�s Dior?�  The cheery voice of my dear brother intruded. I cursed my twin�s untimely arrival. �Oh hello, sir.  Mablung was looking for you.�  Faramir stood up hastily. 

�I was merely checking on Dior and our little healer,�  he said and he went on his way.
 
�Dior is doing well for now, Elred.  And yes, I used the salve.  My shoulders needed it.�

�Get some sleep, Eolind�,� he told me.  �Tomorrow will be another hard ride.�


Chapter 7 - Monscinan

Chapter 7

As the sun was rising, Elred poked me.  �Wake up, slug!  We are moving out soon.�

�I�m awake!�  I snapped back as I sat up.  I tried to loosen my stiff limbs with a stretch but they were having none of it.  The ride was going to be hard.  As my vision cleared, I noticed Dior was sitting up.  His head was bowed.  He looked up with a weak smile when I groaned.

�Good morning, my lady.  Would you care for some tea?� 

�Good morning, my lord.  I would love some tea,� I replied trying to mimic his courtly manner.

�Well you�ll have to make do with water and bread,� Elred said testily.  Dior looked at me and shrugged his shoulders as if to say, �No sense of humor.�  Elred handed me a bit of bread and a water skin.  He handed Dior some bread also.

I took a long drink from the skin Elred gave me.  Then I passed the skin to Dior and he drank as I gathered my supplies to check on the other wounded.  There were dark smudges under his eyes and his hand trembled as he took the skin from me.  �I�m going to check on the others and then you.�  He nodded.

I redressed a few wounds and adjusted a sling.  Thankfully, none of them showed signs of festering so far.  Dior was finished with his food when I returned.  I checked his bandage.  It was dry but the area around was beginning to redden.  I placed more lavender on it and redressed it also.  Elred brought up Beleg and Halan.  I put out my hand to help Dior stand up.  �I can stand by myself,� he said as he pushed my hand away.  He rose up unsteadily.  Sweat beaded on his brow.  Elred looked concerned.  He made it to his feet, breathing heavily.  I mounted Beleg and reached for Dior.  

Elred gave him a leg up and Dior settled himself in front of me.  �I had no idea I was so weak.�  

�You�ve lost blood that is what is making you weak.�

�You should be sitting in front of me,� He quipped.  For some reason the thought of Dior�s arms around me sent a shiver down my back.  �I could be.  But for now, you are in front,� I replied steadily.  He made no more comments and rode in silence for the remainder of the morning.

Faramir halted the company briefly for food and water.  I used a tree stump to dismount, and stood by as Dior was getting off Beleg. He took both horses to get water. A pained expression came over Dior�s face and he doubled over.  �Eolind�,� he said as he reached for me.  I helped him lay down.  �I felt something give in my side.� He spoke between heavy breaths.  I worked off his jerkin and shirt.  I swore softly at the spreading stain.  �What�s wrong?� he whispered.  �Your wound keeps splitting open and bleeding,�  I replied as I took out the last clean strip of bandage I had.  �Can you do anything to stop it?� he asked.

�It probably will need to be sewn closed.  I don�t have the materials to do it and it is risky doing it out here in the wilderness.  I�ve tried to wrap it tightly but when you move the area, it opens up.  You need to take more care,�  I said as I rewrapped the strips of cloth around his midsection.   

He grimaced as I pulled the strips tightly and tied the ends together.  The call to ride sounded and Elred brought the horses back.  I pulled out my flask and gave Dior a sip.  He coughed and gasped. �What is this stuff?�

�We call it monscinan.  Your people call it silith.�  

His eyes widened.  �I�ve heard of silith.  They say a grown man can die if he drinks too much of it.�

�They can.  We use it medicinally.  It takes the edge off of pain.  But we also get quite drunk on it too,�  I said with a smile.  

Elred brought the horses back.  I mounted Beleg and Dior let Elred assist him up.

As Beleg started to trot, Dior twisted his head around and said, �Someday, I will go to Rohan and see how this silith is made.�

�I would be happy to introduce you to my Uncle L�od. He makes the finest silith in the Southfold,�  I replied.  The rest of the afternoon passed with little conversation.  Cair Andros came into view at twilight.

The Anduin glittered in the fading sun.  The garrison at Cair Andros welcomed us.  My presence startled the soldiers but nothing was said in my hearing.  I made my customary rounds and reported to the healer stationed with the garrison, Alcarin.   We knew each other from the Houses.  His eyebrows rose when he saw me but he treated me with the courtesy of a fellow healer.

The day�s ride had taken a toll on Dior.  His face had taken on the unnatural flush of fever.  I checked the wound.  It was red but I saw no evidence of putrefaction.  But the fever concerned me.  My supplies were almost spent, so I consulted with Alcarin.  

After I had told him Dior�s situation, he volunteered to take a look himself and brought his supplies. 

�Dior, this is Alcarin.  He is a healer from the Houses.  Your wound may be getting worse.  I have asked him to take a look,� I said steadily.  He nodded.  Alcarin checked Dior over and then motioned to me as he stepped away.

�I believe, Mistress Eolind�, that the wound is probably infected on the inside.  It sometimes happens with wounds of this type.  We should try to wash it out.  I have some woundwort powder that, made into a poultice, might staunch the infection until you get to Minas Tirith,� he said, his eyes full of concern.  I sighed.

�That was my fear.  It looks so small on the surface but it must have gone deeper than I thought.�  He busied himself with preparing the poultice as I explained to Dior what we had to do.  I gave him a sip of monscinan from the almost empty flask.  He coughed and nodded that he was ready.

I proceeded to wash out the wound with some wine Alcarin had given me.  Dior blanched and grimaced but held still.  I then rinsed it with water that had been boiled.  Alcarin packed the wound with his poultice and then we bound it up tightly.  I gave Dior some tea with feverfew and daisy to ease the fever and clean his blood.

As Alcarin and I cleaned up, he spoke, �I had seen you in the Houses.  I had heard you were a good healer.  Now I know that you are not only fair in face, but good in your work.� His voice was full of respect and his eyes looked at me with admiration.  I blushed at his words.  �My dear sir, you flatter me too much.  I have been on the trail for several days.  I doubt I look fair at this moment.�

�Fair is in the eye of the beholder.  Many a man has fallen for a fair face and been rewarded with an ornament that fades with time.  You are no ornament.  A man should be proud to call you wife.�  

I became flustered and sputtered out, �I must see to my horse.�  

Hastily I retreated as I heard Alcarin chuckle


Chapter 8 - Songs

Elred was rubbing Beleg down as I approached.  I stroked Beleg�s nose as I said, �You�ve done well today, Beleg.�  I heard Halan whinny and push his nose in my hand searching for a treat.  �You too!�  as I laughed at my horse�s antics.  Elred threw me a rag.  �Your horse needs to be rubbed down too.� 

As I rubbed, I began singing a song about Eorl and the first meara, Felarof.  Elred joined in.  He flashed me a grin as we finished the last note.

�That was lovely.  What is it that you sing of?�  said a voice.  I turned around quickly startled.  Faramir stood there smiling.  Eorl and the first meara, sir.� replied Elred.�

�I know the Rohirrim sing in battle.  That your history is kept in song.  Perhaps you two would be willing to sing something for the camp.  There seems to be a musician or two among my Rangers. Many songs will be sung this night.� he said looking at us both.

�I don�t think anyone would be interested in our songs.�  I said plainly.

�And why is that?� he asked.

I glanced at Elred.  He was gathering the rags up.  I remembered the comments of our relatives.  The battles Elred fought for respect.  I took a deep breath and replied, �Well, I know the Gondorians think us uncultured, heathens.  Why would they want to listen to us?�

�Because, songs of courage in any language are welcome in times like these, and I wish to hear some.�  he said gently.  

Eored touched my arm to reassure me.  �Eolind� and I would be honored, sir.�

�Excellent.  Come along when you are finished here.�  He turned and walked back toward the main camp.

I turned on Elred as soon as Faramir was out of sight.  �Have you lost your mind?  We will look like the biggest fools!�

Elred shrugged his shoulders.  �Captain Faramir wants to hear some.  Why are you so concerned about what a bunch of soldiers think about us?  They respect our people and our ways.  They know we fight with honor.  It�s only the people in the city that think that way.  You�ve been around Aunt Iles and our cousins too much.�

�But�� I said.

�No more discussion.  We go sing and show these men of Gondor the beauty found in Rohan.�  he said sternly.

As Elred guided me back to camp, the sounds of music and singing drifted toward us.  I sat and listened though I could not understand the words.  They were in the language of Numenor and the elvish tongue of Sindarin.  I felt the spirit of the songs.  They were songs of triumph mingled with sadness.  Regret for the things that had passed away.  Faramir looked our way and nodded.  We stood up.  �My brothers, we have some Rohirrim among us.  I have asked them to sing a few of their songs.�  There were a few looks of disdain but mostly curiosity radiated from the men�s faces.  I caught a glimpse of Dior and Alcarin.  Both looked on with interest.

Elred nodded and I took a deep breath.  I started a song about Helm Hammerhand and Elred joined in.  We always sang well together, our voices blending into one and then separating.  Applause followed.  We followed with a song about riding through our land.  It was a child�s song but Elred and I had always enjoyed it.  It spoke of the wind blowing through our hair, fields and mountains.  Again, applause followed. Then Elred whispered to me to sing alone.  I sang what was in my heart.  It was a love song.  It was a woman singing to her lover as he rode away to war.  I looked at Faramir as I sang.  I knew I was taking a risk singling Faramir out.  I assumed that because it was Rohirric, only Elred would know what I was saying.  I knew he would give me grief for it later.  But at that moment, I poured my heart out.  Silence followed the last note and then applause.  It startled me back to awareness.  Faramir smiled but his eyes were troubled.  Suddenly, I remembered I was a lone woman among these men.  I had revealed my feelings for all to see.  I blushed with humiliation.  I excused myself and ran to the river.

The stars twinkled overhead as I looked out over the river.  The water seemed calm compared to my tangled emotions.  How could I have been so stupid!  Where was the shieldmaiden who fought the Haradrim, pulled Dior to safety and treated the injured?  I was acting like my silly cousins who sighed and swooned over their men.  I kicked a stone and swore.

�I doubt that was a very ladylike expression.�  I looked up and saw Faramir.  His face was full of concern.

�My lord. I am sorry.  I��

�I told you to call me Faramir, didn�t I?  And why are you sorry?  The song was beautiful.� he said walking over to me.

�Everyone saw��  I said looking away.  My heart was hammering in my chest at his nearness.  He put his hand under my chin and tipped my face up.

�Saw what?�

�That I am in love with you!� I jerked my chin out of his hand and walked away.  He touched my arm and gently turned me back to face him.

�My dear lady, these are men and there was only firelight to see you by.  I doubt very much that they could read your face that well.�

�Elred knows.�

�As do I. That is why I came to look for you.� he replied. �What brought you to Minas Tirith?  It is not time for the sales.�

�I � I am to look for a husband!� I spat out.  �If I did not favor anyone from here, I was to go back to the Southfold and probably marry a childhood friend who�s land runs next to ours.  As if being some man�s broodmare was my only purpose in life!�  Faramir chuckled. 

�From what I know of your parents, they would not pressure you to marry.�

�It wasn�t them.  My grandmother pressured my mother.  Said I was too wild and that it was high time I settled down.  Father�s family was of the same opinion.  They don�t approve of the shieldmaidens.  �Not ladylike�.  And my parents went along to keep the peace.�  I finished bitterly.

�But surely your parents would not force you to marry where you do not love?�

�No.  They did say I should marry where my heart lies.� I looked at him with hope in my heart.

Faramir sighed.  �And your heart lies with me?� I could not speak but merely nodded.  I walked over and tried to put my arms around him.  He captured my hands and a sad expression crossed his face.

�Eolind�, believe me when I tell you, you are not in love with me.�

�But�� 

�Shh.� He put his finger to my lips.  �You see me as a way out of your difficulties.  What a fine catch I would be to parade in front of your relatives.�

�That�s not true.  I swear. I really do love you.  You captured my heart when I was 15.  In the library, you were so kind to me.  I know no men finer than my father, my brother and you.�  He smiled.  

�I am flattered but my heart is still my own. I do not think you are destined for life as a �broodmare� as you so quaintly put it.  Your gift in the healing arts is worthy of admiration alone.   There is a man out there who will appreciate all of you and allow you to use your gifts for the good of others.  The coming days will be dark.  I can feel it in my bones.�  An involuntary shiver went through me when he spoke of the dark times to come.

�Love will find you, my little healer.  It may come from a most unexpected place, but it will find you.  I pray that you will be able to see it when it does come.�  He kissed my forehead.  �Think about what I said.�  He walked away. 

I wiped a few stray tears and looked up at the stars.  Weary and confused, I made my way back to camp.  Alcarin met me on the way back.  �I was just coming to look for you.�  

�Is there anything wrong?� I asked with concern.

�Oh no.  Everyone seems to be resting well.�  he said with a smile.  �You are a lady of many talents, Mistress Eolind�.�  I stared at him, not believing the flattery I heard.

�I am merely a Rohiric healer.� I answered, attempting stop his fulsome compliments.

But he went on.  �My dear lady, you are no mere Rohirric healer.  Your beauty matches your skill in healing.  You are a true gem from the plains of Rohan.�

I almost could not speak.  �He must have had some monscinan to talk such nonsense.� I thought.  I regained my composure to excuse myself. �Ah.  Thank you, Master Alcarin.  I find I am quite weary.  I believe it is time for me to seek my bedroll.�

�I shall escort you then.�  He walked with me to my place by the fire.  Elred looked up as we approached.  �Here is your sister, the songbird.�  Alcarin said to Eored.  Elred�s eyes widened.  �Thank you, sir. I had begun to wonder where she had run off too.� 

�I just went for a walk by the river.�  I said airily.  Elred�s expression showed he did not believe me.  �Thank you for escort, Master Alcarin.  I shall see you in the morning.�

�Your servant, mistress, sir.�  And he walked away.

�Who was that?� asked Elred.

�He is the healer stationed here with the garrison.  He aided me in treating Dior.�  I replied as I lay down on my blanket.

�It�s late and I will not press you now.  But we will have a talk about your choice of songs tomorrow.�  He said sternly.

�Yes, brother dear.� I replied with resignation in my voice.  As I turned over, I caught Dior�s dark eyes looking at me from across the fire.  He had such a look of pain and sadness that I almost got up to check on him.  But then he closed his eyes and sleep claimed me soon after.


Chapter 9 - The Horn

Feb 26 


Lightening and fire flashed across a sullen sky.  I saw a plain stretched out before me.  The ground was broken.  Dead men and hideous creatures were tangled together.  I saw the banners of Rohan and Gondor trampled into the ground and covered with blood.  As I wandered in this nightmare, I came upon a group of dead Riders.  Then I saw my father�s face among the dead.  I cried out and tears began to flow down my face.  I felt someone shaking me.

�Eolind�!�  Elred�s voice penetrated the gloom, pulling me towards wakefulness.  I opened my eyes and saw the campfire burning low and the sun beginning its march across the sky.  Eored looked at me with concern.

�I had a dream, Elred.  It was so awful�� I said haltingly, trying to clear my head of the visions I had seen.

�You were crying and saying Father�s name,� he said.

�I saw him.  He was dead.  There were so many dead.  Gondorian and Rohirrim��

�Shh�� Elred said hugging me.  �It was just a dream.  Perhaps it will not come to pass,� he said hopefully but his worried expression told a different story.  I nodded and began to gather my things.  Directly across from me, Dior was sitting up.  He flashed me a look of concern.  He gave me a wan smile as I began to check him over.  He was still flushed and warm.  There were dark smudges under his eyes.  I checked under the bandage.  The wound was rimmed in red but thankfully was dry.   His fever worried me.  The possibility that he had blood poisoning loomed in my mind.  The sooner we got to Minas Tirith the better.  As I cleaned and redressed the area, I asked, �Did you sleep well last night?� 

He shook his head.  �I slept for a little while after you sang.  You have a beautiful voice.  But I felt like I was on fire and I could not get comfortable,� he grimaced as I tightened the straps around his chest.   

�What about you?  I thought I heard your voice earlier.� 

�I had a bad dream,� I replied.

�What happened?� he asked earnestly.

�I cannot speak of it, Dior.  It filled me with dread and I am relieved that we are returning to Minas Tirith.�  I stood up and gave him my hand.  He clasped it and I helped him stand up.  His breathing was labored.  He leaned against me to steady himself.  

�Here my good man, let me help.� I saw Alcarin take Dior by the waist and Dior�s weight shifted toward Alcarin.  Elred brought the horses up at that moment.  Alcarin aided Dior up onto Beleg.  Dior said nothing but I could tell by his expression he was angry at needing Alcarin�s help.  Alcarin turned towards me, took my hand and placed a light kiss on my knuckles.  �It has been a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mistress Eolind�.  I look forward to our next meeting,� he said with a flourish.  I blushed and stammered out, �Thank you for your help, Master Alcarin.  Until we meet again.�  I made a small bow and Alcarin helped me mount Beleg behind Dior.  Elred rolled his eyes at me and Dior sat very straight and still.  

�Ready Dior?� I asked.

�Yes, let�s get on with it,� he replied tersely.  I pressed my knees into Beleg�s sides and soon we were off toward Minas Tirith.  A feeling of apprehension joined the chill left by the dream.  I was going to be facing some very angry relatives.  They often did not care that I was away from home during the day.  But, being gone for a week, that was something they would notice.  I sighed.  It was going to be an unpleasant scene.  

I caught Faramir�s eyes as we approached the Gate.  He looked uneasy.  Suddenly, everything grew still.  The men�s voices died away and the sun dimmed.  Faintly, there could be heard what sounded like a hunting horn.  It was so low that I wasn�t sure I heard it.  I heard Dior gasp and a look of pain crossed Faramir�s face.  Then everything sprang back to life and the moment was gone.

�What just happened?�  I asked under my breath.  Dior�s voice surprised me. �I cannot be sure but, it may have been the Horn of Gondor.  The one Captain Boromir carried.  This is an ill omen.�  I made no reply.  I longed to ask Faramir but he seemed lost in his own thoughts.

I tried to delay going home as long as possible.  However, the time had come to face my relatives.  Elred and I began our walk back to the 5th Circle.  �Maybe it won�t be so bad.�  Elred said, trying to cheer me.

�Oh Elred.  You know better.  I will hear how wild I am, how unladylike, and how I�m a disgrace to the family name!� I spat out bitterly.

�You bring honor to your family�s name, both of you,�  Faramir said.

�Captain!� Elred said

�Why are you here?  Surely you are tired and have other places to be?� I asked puzzled.

�I overheard you talking to someone in the Houses.  You dreaded going home.  A Ranger should never dread going home,� he replied with a smile.  �Perhaps my presence will forestall some of their anger.�

�Oh you might delay it, but I will catch it eventually.�

�Still, I will try to do what I can,� he said kindly.

We reached the door.  Elred knocked and one of the servants answered.  She looked surprised at who it was.  �Who is it, Dena?� said my aunt coming to the door.  �Oh Elred, welcome home.  Have you seen your� sister.�  She paused as she took in my torn and dirty clothing and my tangled hair. �Eolind�!  Where have you been?  What do you mean by coming here looking like this!� She then noticed Faramir.  �My lord, what an honor,� she said, bowing.  

�I was escorting your niece and nephew home.  Your niece joined her brother and went on a foray with my Rangers.  They both fought bravely and Eolind�s skills in healing saved several lives, including Dior, son of Eldacar of the Citadel Guard,� he said quietly but firmly.  My aunt�s eyebrows rose but she was still unmoved. 

�Well, that is interesting.  Would my lord care for some refreshment?� she offered looking at him speculatively.

�No, thank you my lady.  I have other duties which require my attention.  I merely wanted to see your niece and nephew home.� He made a small bow, gave me a smile of encouragement and then strode away.

�Well come in already,� My aunt said sourly. She looked at me with contempt in her eyes. She wrinkled her nose at the smell of sweat and blood that clung to me.  �We will have a talk after you clean up,� she finished.


Chapter 10 - The Houses

Feb 26

I welcomed the bath.  The maid brimmed with excitement.  �They say Captain Faramir himself escorted you and your brother home.�

�He did indeed, Kara.� I replied wearily as I sank into the faintly scented water.

�He is so handsome!�

�He is indeed.�  I replied sighing.

My aunt�s summons came quickly.  I dressed in a plain linen gown.  My hair was pulled back from my face.  

�So, you ran off to play Ranger did you?�

�Aunt Iles.�  I held up my hand to forestall her.  �I will be leaving here today.�  The look of shock on her face was priceless.  �And where will you go, an unmarried girl with no money.� She snapped.

�There is a house near the Houses of Healing where the women stay.�

�That place only houses widows and spinsters!  What makes you think you can stay there?�

�I am a healer and some of the women know me.  My reputation will be protected.�

�As if you still had one!  Going off in the company of men to fight.  I do not know how we will be able to hold our heads up.  Go!  And spare us any further embarrassment.�  she spoke bitterly.

�Aunt Iles, in the coming days, reputation and family name will mean very little.�  I said as I left the room.

I gathered my things and found Elred.  He was preparing to leave for the barracks.  �Aunt Iles didn�t ring a peal over your head too?� I asked.  He looked grim.  �Oh she did alright.  But I just let it pass.  It�s no use arguing with her.� he replied.  �Where are you going?� he asked, eyeing my bundle.

�I�m hoping to go to the House of the Noldiel.�

His eyebrows rose. �Will they take you?� he asked.

�I don�t know.  What I do know is that I cannot stay here.� I said firmly.  He nodded and took my bundle.   We walked to the Houses of Healing.  I stopped to check on Dior and the others.  All seemed to be resting quietly.  Soon we were before the door.  I squared my shoulders and knocked.

Slowly, the door opened and an older woman with a lamp peered out.  �What do you want?� she asked sharply.

I cleared my throat.  �I wish to stay in the House of the Noldiel.  I am a healer in the Houses and am in need of a bed.�

The woman looked closer.  �Have you no family?�  

�I do but��  

�Then go stay with them.  This place is for widows and spinsters.  You are too young to be either.�  And she made a move to close the door.

�Please.  My sister is a skilled healer.  There are many in the houses that can vouch for her.  Our relatives do not approve.  I would feel better knowing she was here.�  Elred put in as he held a hand to keep the door from shutting.

�Young man��

�Who is at the door Andreth?�  asked a familiar voice.  Mistress Ioreth appeared over the doorkeeper�s shoulder.  Her eyes narrowed as she saw Eored and me on the doorstep.

�This young woman wishes to stay here with us even though she has family in the city.   Nor is she a widow or spinster.�  Andreth said haughtily.

�No, Eolind� is not a widow or spinster.  She is, however, known to me and I say she may stay.�  Ioreth said.  

Andreth shook her head.  �Well, girl what are you waiting for?  Come on.�  

Elred gave me my bundle.  As he hugged me good-bye he whispered, �I�ll bring your sword �round tomorrow.  And I�ll look after Halan.�  I kissed him on the cheek and bade him farewell.  Ioreth closed the door behind me and led me to my place.

�Thank you Mistress.�  I said with gratitude in my voice.

�Oh don�t thank me yet.  Our accommodations are sparse.  The board is not much better.�  She replied.

�But the company makes up for it.�  I said with a smile.  Ioreth looked at me with a twinkle in her eye.  �I�ll take your word for that.  �Tis a hard road you have chosen for yourself.�  She said.

�I know.  But it�s in my blood.  It feels right and I feel called to it.�  I said.

�Spoken like a true healer.  Ah, here we are.�  She motioned toward the doorway of a room.  Inside the room, I could see a straw pallet in one corner.  A small table held a basin and an empty candle stick.  The pitcher was underneath the table.  �It�s not much but it is all we have.�  She watched me closely gauging my reaction.  

�It will suit me just fine� I answered.  I would have slept in a barn if it meant getting away from my relatives.  

�The bathing room is down the hall to the left.  We share a tub.�  I nodded.  Just as I was about to go into the room, Ioreth took my chin in her hand.  Her eyes bored into me.
�Now listen.  I stuck my neck out for you because you know your craft and deserve a place to lay your head.  But, you are still an unmarried woman, and as such you will conduct yourself with propriety.  There will be no foolishness tolerated.  If I so much as hear a rumor of improper behavior, you will answer to me.�

I nodded silently.  She broke into a smile and gently prodded me into my room.  As she was walking away, she said.  �Dinner will be within the hour.�

It was the work of a moment to unpack my meager belongings.  My stomach rumbled.  In my haste to be gone from my aunt�s house, I had neglected to eat.   I remembered what Ioreth said and after a few wrong turns, found the refectory.  The smell of fresh baked bread and hot stew made my mouth water.  I hesitated at the doorway, took a deep breath and walked in.

There were women of varying ages sitting along the long tables.  I spotted Ioreth and she waved me over.  She patted the seat beside her.  I took a bowl of stew from the cook and sat next to her.  The bread was on the table along with some dried fruit and cheese.  

�Eolind�, I want you to meet, Merith.�  Ioreth motioned to younger woman beside her.  She was older than myself but definitely younger than Ioreth.  �I am going to read� she said and Ioreth left us.

�Pleased to meet you mistress.� I said.

�And I you.  It�s nice to have a younger face around here for a change. Though I must say, you are young to be a healer.�

�I am old enough, mistress.�  I said quietly.

�I am sure you are.  Are you a widow?�

�Ah no.  I� my relatives have evacuated and I chose to stay and use my gifts.�  

�Well, I am a widow.  My husband was killed in skirmish with the Corsairs near the coast.�

�I am sorry.�  I said.

�Oh, I am alright.  It was an arranged match.  We barely knew each other before he went away to fight.�  She said airily, but sadness was in her eyes.  �What of you?  You have the look of the Rohirrim.�

�My father is from Minas Tirith, my mother is of Rohan.  I have a twin brother who rides with Captain Faramir and his Rangers.�

�Ah Captain Faramir.� Her eyes took on a dreamy look.  �Many a lady has lost her heart to him.  They say the blood of Numenor runs true in him.�  I felt a pang of jealousy.

�And yet, no lady seems to have caught his fancy� I put in, a bit sharply.

�No, they haven�t.� her eyes narrowed a bit at my tone. �But the one who does will be someone special indeed.  After all, he is a son of the Steward, he can look as high as he likes.�  She answered smugly.

�True enough.�  I replied quietly looking down at the table.  I looked up and saw a smile on Merith�s face.  I felt slightly foolish and began giggling.  Merith joined me in my laughter which caused some of the older ladies to turn and look at us.  Disapproval registered on their faces.  Merith took my hand.  �Come on.  Let�s get some tea and have some talk.�

With our tea supplies, we made our way to her chamber.   We exchanged stories of our childhoods.  Merith had been trained by a spinster aunt in the healing arts.  She gravitated toward the Houses after her husband�s death as a solace for her grief.  She hoped to marry again but for the time being, she was content to work in the Houses.  

For the first time in many years, I felt at home in Minas Tirith.  I did not have to guard my tongue lest I say something inappropriate.  I could speak of my home in Rohan with pride.  I was treated with courtesy and respect not as an unwanted relative.  I could be who I was and not be ashamed.  I looked forward to seeing Eored in the morning and telling him of my new-found contentment.  I drifted off sleep.

Some hours later, someone was shaking me.  A voice called me, �Eolind�!  Wake up, girl you�re wanted!�  

�What, it�s not morning yet?�  I mumbled in my sleep.  Ioreth shone a lantern in my face.  �Wake up.  One of your patients has taken a turn for the worse and they�re wanting you to see to him.�

�Who?�  I asked as I sat up trying to clear my eyes.

�Dior.  There is a boy here to escort you.�
My heart skipped a beat.  �Dior?  But he was fine when I checked on him earlier.�  I pulled on my dress and grabbed my cloak.

�Patients can be fine one moment and near death in another.�  Ioreth said�   She led me to where the boy stood with his own lantern.  He had a serious look on his face and seemed to take his duty very seriously.

�What�s your name?� I asked as we walked out the door.  

�I am Bergil, son of Beregond.  Are you the one they call Eolind�?�

�I am.  Pleased to meet you Bergil, son of Beregond.  Lead the way.�  And we walked silently toward the Houses and to where Dior lay.


Chapter 11 - Fever

Feb 27

I followed Bergil to the Houses.  One of the other healers met me at the door.  �Are you Mistress Eolind�?�  he asked briskly.

�I am.�

�Come.� He motioned for me to follow him.   As we walked, I asked, �What seems to be the problem?  Dior seemed to fine earlier.�

�Master Cirin suspects that he has blood poisoning.  He has gotten feverish and nothing we do seems to calm him down.�  He turned to face me, �He keeps asking for you Mistress.  And his father bade us to fetch you�

I was glad for the dark of the hallway, so he could not see the color rise on my face.  He looked at me with some curiosity.  As if he were trying to figure out why a member of the Citadel Guard would want me to come see about his son.  He shook his head and motioned to a small room.   

As I entered, I saw Master Cirin, kneeling by Dior�s bed.  A tall dark-haired man stood in the corner, worry clearly written on his face.  Dior was on the bed.  He seemed quiet.  His skin was dry and his face was flushed.  The dark haired man noticed my entrance and approached me.

�Are you Mistress Eolind�?�  he asked.  

�Yes, sir I am.  I visited him earlier.  He seemed to be on the mend,�  I stated evenly.  My heart was in my chest.  What if I had done something wrong and Dior was sick because of it?  His father looked at me sharply.  

�Aren�t you young to be a healer?�

�Yes. Master Cirin, how does he fare?�  I asked as I walked over to the bed.

�He is quiet for now.  I gave him a bit of poppy laced tea,� he said standing up.  

�Is it blood poisoning?�  I asked in a low voice.  

�Yes, I think so,� he replied. My face fell. �But, I do not think it is your fault,� he whispered gently.  �You treated the wound correctly.  I see no infection around it. Something must have gotten in when he was wounded initially.�  He saw my face.  �Sometimes this happens.  But he is young and strong.  He should recover.  I�ll send someone with some more lavender water.�  And he left the room.  Dior�s father followed him out.  I heard their voices in the hall and tried not to listen though the words, mere girl and competent did float through.  I went over and sat next to Dior, picked up a wet rag and began to wipe his face.

�Oh Dior.  If you had wanted to see me, you could have just called at the house.  This is a bit dramatic, don�t you think, getting me out of bed in the middle of the night,� I whispered.  I laid my hand on his chest.  I felt the unhealthy heat radiating from his skin.  He opened his eyes and grasped my hand.  �You�re here,� he said in voice I could barely hear.  

�Well of course, I�m here.  You asked for me and so here I am.  Go back to sleep.�  I laid my hand on his forehead.  He seemed to settle and soon his breathing was even. A woman brought me a fresh bowl of lavender water.  It was cool and the lavender fragrance was soothing.  I bathed his face and chest.  I made a move to uncover him further.  �I wouldn�t do that.  He�s not wearing a stitch of clothing,� a male voice warned. 

�Oh my.  Yes, ah, thank you sir.  It would have been quite embarrassing,�  I replied as I turned to see who spoke.  It was Dior�s father.  I could feel the heat rising on my face when I thought of what I almost saw.

�I am Eldacar.  Dior�s father.  How is he?�

�He�s resting.  I am bathing him in lavender water to try and bring his fever down,� I said.  He sat across from me on Dior�s other side.  He wore a velvet tunic of black and plain linen shirt.  I could see the resemblance between father and son.  Dior had his father�s dark eyes and hair.  

�How is it that that my son would ask for you by name?�  

�My twin brother rides with Captain Faramir and the Ithilien Rangers.  He has introduced me to many of his companions including your son.  They all know I am a healer.�  I was not about to tell this man that I had beaten his son in archery.

�Have you no husband?�  he asked looking somewhat curious.  I squirmed under his gaze.

�No sir.  Though what business it is of yours, I do not know,� I retorted.

�Surely, you are old enough to be married.  A young girl like you should not be subject to sights unfit for a maid.�

�Sir, I am not some sheltered lady of Minas Tirith.  I am a Shieldmaiden of Rohan.�  

Eldacar�s eyebrows went up at this statement.  �I was trained by my father on how to wield a blade and bow.  We of the �oth�od must be able to defend ourselves at a moment�s notice.  We have no standing army or citadel walls to protect us.�  Eldacar seemed to wince a little at this last statement.

�I have heard of the Shieldmaidens.  I thought they were just stories told by the Rohirrim.�

�The White Lady, �owyn, the king�s niece, is a Shieldmaiden.  Many women follow her example.�  

�And yet, you are a skilled healer according to Master Cirin.�

�I do not take joy in battle or killing.  I merely train so that I may defend myself and my loved ones if need demands it.  Healing is what I truly love to do.�

�So how is it you came to be here when your home is in Rohan?�
 
�My father is Gondorian.  His relatives naturally live here.�

�I see.  And what do they think of your choice of occupation?�  I was beginning to get angry with this overbearing man and all his questions.

�And what concern is it of yours what my relatives think?  I am here to take care of your son not be subjected to a stranger�s scrutiny.�  Eldacar looked slightly stunned at this speech.  He bowed his head.  When he looked up, I saw grief in his eyes.

�I am sorry for offending you.  I did not mean to be so rude. He is all I have and I let my worry for him override my good manners.  Please accept my apology.� I softened at his earnest tone.

�Sir, truly I think you would do well to go to your home and get some rest.  I will watch over him.  If anything changes, I will send someone for you.�  He nodded.  He stood up, put on his cloak and began to leave.  He turned around and looked at me.� Mistress, you are not in the common way.  I will come back in the morning to see how he fares.�

�Until then, sir.  Rest well.�  He turned and left the room.  I shook my head and went back to the task of trying to break Dior�s fever.


Chapter 12 - Hiatus

For my few loyal readers, my apologies for not updating in a while.  RL got very much in the way along with a case of writer's block.  But I am now ready to get back to Minas Tirith and our healer...  Updates soon.  I promise!


Saelind


Chapter 13 - Lavender

Feb 27

As dawn approached, Dior�s fever seemed to abate a little.  Someone brought me a cup of tea to help me stay awake.  He would occasionally speak a mixture of Westron and Common. I laid my hand on his forehead and whispered to him.  He woke up a little and looked at me.  �Water� he croaked.  He tried to sit up but was too weak.  I had someone help me sit him up and he took a few sips of water.  Then he fell back insensible again.  Master Cirin came by a little later to check on him. 

�Still feverish I see.� Sighed Master Cirin

�But he did get some rest and the fever doesn�t seem to be as high.�

�Maybe.  But he is far from well.  Why don�t you fetch something to eat and get some rest yourself.�  He suggested.

�Master Cirin, I would feel more at ease if I could stay here and keep an eye on him. If you would have someone fetch me some food and a fresh apron.  I would be most grateful.  I also need to send a message to my brother.  He was to bring some of my things to the Houses.� I wasn�t sure how he would react to my request.

�Very well.  But don�t wear yourself out.� He cautioned.  

�I won�t, Master.� I replied with a smile.  He turned to leave and then he turned around, thought for a moment and then spoke.

�Mistress, when Dior is well, I want you to come see me.  If the rumors I hear are true, that the Enemy is moving, I would like to give you some specialized training.  I think it would benefit you and the soldiers.�

I was taken aback.  What did he mean?  �Yes, of course.  If you think it would be good, I would be honored to study with you.�

�Excellent.  Keep me apprised of Dior�s progress.�  He said and left the room.

A young woman brought me some food and water.  She sat with Dior as I went out into the hall to an alcove.  These were scattered around the Houses. There was a stand with a basin and pitcher.  I poured the water out and took a pinch of soap powder.  I washed my hands and face.  I had braided my hair in the early morning light.  I returned and ate.  Merith arrived with a fresh apron and kerchief.  

�How is he?�  she asked as she laid the bundle down.

�He has blood poisoning.�  She blanched.  �He is young and strong.  I do not think he will lose this fight.  But it is a fight.�  I said.  She sat on the other side felt his chest.  �He is breathing easily but he needs to break the fever.� she remarked.

�Have you had any sleep?�  she asked lifting her eyes to look at me.

�Not much.� I replied.

�Let me stay with him while you get a nap.  I have seen this before.  If anything changes, I will let you know.  The room next door is empty and there is a pallet in there.  Go rest awhile.�  A great weight of fatigue seemed come over me.  �Only for an hour or two.�  I cautioned.  She nodded.  The young girl who had brought my food, brought a basin of lavender water and some clean rags.  Merith began to wipe him down.  �Go on!� she motioned with her hand.  My eyes closed as soon as my head was on the pallet.

Someone was shaking me and whispering my name.  I woke up with a start.  �How long have I been asleep?� I asked the young man who had come to wake me up.  �Only a few hours Mistress.  It is not yet midday.  Merith sent me to wake you.�

�Has Dior taken a turn for the worse?�  I asked in a panic.

�Oh no  Mistress.  He is the same.  Your brother is here to see you.�  I went out into the courtyard and met Elred there.  After he hugged me, he gave me my sword.  

�They wouldn�t let me leave it at the house for you.�  he explained, puzzled.

�Of course.  The Houses are supposed to be a place of healing and peace.� I explained with a smile.

�Well, I would feel better if you kept it with you.  How�s Dior?�

I sighed as I buckled my sword around my waist.  �He�s very ill but I think he will pull through.�

�Well, with you taking care of him, he�d better.�  He said with a smile.

�His father was not best pleased to have me treat him, I can tell you that.  But, Dior was asking for me by name.�  Elred�s eyebrows rose with my last statement.

�He was?  Well, well isn�t that interesting.� He got a look of amusement.

�What is so funny?�  I demanded.

�Oh nothing.  Though Dior did tell me once he thought you were quite pretty.�  He said teasingly.  I cuffed him.

�Oh Elred do you have to be so annoying?�  

�It�s part of my charm.� He smiled

�Well heaven help the woman who falls for you is all I can say.�  I said with arms crossed.

He grinned and then his expression turned serious.  �We are moving out in a few days.�

�Where are they sending you?�

�Not sure.  Probably the crossing at Cair Andros.  We need to strengthen the garrison there.  That group we fought in Ithilien was merely a foretaste of what is coming.  Scouts are reporting more troops are gathering at the border.�  A shadow seemed to come over Eored�s face.

�What are you not telling me?�  I demanded.

�Nothing!  I�m being sent back out is all.�  His face grim.  

�I�m sorry.  You�ll let me know when you are leaving?�  I asked softly.

�Of course.  Since I have no sweetheart or wife to see me off, my sister will have to do.� He said with mock sadness.  He put his arms around me, hugged and planted a kiss on my forehead.  

�Oh go on with you!�  I said laughing as he walked out of sight whistling what I knew was a bawdy tune.  I shook my head and returned to Dior�s room.

Dior was ill for another day and night.  His father came several times a day but he did not question my abilities any more.  I spent hours bathing him in lavender water.  When he grew restless, I sang quietly.  

On the morning of the third day, I was dreaming that I was at home in Rohan. My mother was stroking my hair in an attempt to get me to wake up and get started on my chores.

�Just let me sleep a little longer, Mother.�  I mumbled in Rohirric.

�I�m sorry, what did you say?�  I heard a strange male voice.  I jerked awake.  I had fallen asleep sitting by Dior�s bed.  I looked at his face.  He was pale but smiling.  His eyes were bright.  �What did you say?� he asked again.  I was speechless.  I put my hand to his forehead.  It was cool.

�How are you feeling?�  I asked hesitantly.

�Weak, but I no longer feel like I�m burning in my own skin.�  Relief and joy mingled as I yelped and hugged him.  He hugged me back.
�I should get sick more often.�  He joked.

�Don�t you dare!  You were really sick.  I have been here for almost 3 days trying to get you well.�  

Master Cirin came running in.  �What is wrong?�

�See for yourself.�  I said happily and stood up.  

The master looked and also felt Dior�s forehead.  �Welcome back young master.  You gave us quite a scare.�  he said beaming.  

�It was not my intention to scare anyone, sir.� He replied.

�Is that my son�s voice I hear?�  said Eldacar as he strode into the room.

�Yes, Father.  I am awake.  Thanks to this good lady.�  he gestured towards me.

I blushed.  �Dior, now, it wasn�t just me.  Master Cirin and Merith and some of the others took care of you.�

�No, but it�s your voice I heard in my dreams.  You sang to me didn�t you?�  I felt the heat of embarrassment envelop me.  Eldacar looked at me closely.  

�I� ah sang some lullabys from my home in Rohan� It seemed to help settle him down.� I explained hesitantly, my hands clasped tightly together in front of me.  I became aware of my rumpled and messy appearance.

�Now that he is on the mend, when can I take my son home, Master Cirin?� Master Cirin hesitated and looked at me as if to say that I should decide.  I shook my head no and began busying myself with cleaning up.  

�I would recommend he stay at least until tomorrow morning.  He may have a relapse and it would be better for him if he was here.�

Eldacar nodded.  �Very well. I will bring you some things from the house, my son.  Thank you Master Cirin and you too Mistress.� he said gesturing towards me as he left.

�I�ll send one of the men to help clean you up Dior.  And you,� he said pointing to me,�You go get some rest.�

�Yes, sir.�  I nodded.

�My father, he, ah is a bit gruff at times.� Dior said.  I didn�t reply but continued to tidy up.  �So, you never answered my question.  What were you saying earlier?�

�I was dreaming that I was at home and my mother was trying to wake me up to go do my chores.  I asked her to let me sleep a little longer.�  I said matter of factly.  Dior burst out laughing.    He was still chuckling when the assistant came to help him bathe.  I excused myself and went to the House.  A hot bath and a bed were all I was looking for.  I found a note for Eored waiting for me.  His company was being sent out to Cair Andros the following morning.  I breathed a sigh of relief. At least I could get some rest and prepare a proper send off for my dear twin.


Chapter 14 - Training

Chapter 13

Feb 29

When I awoke it was evening.  I stretched and rubbed my eyes.  I moved stiffly towards the bowl and pitcher.  A splash of cold water opened my eyes.  The emptiness in my stomach reminded just how long it had been since I ate.  I also needed a bath.

“Food first, then bath.”  I made my way to the kitchen hoping to scrounge up something from the cook.  A roaring fire greeted me.  The cook, a middle-aged lady, smiled at me.

“Mistress Ioreth said you might come looking for some food.  I’ve put back a tray for ya.”

“Thank you, Mistress…”

“Oh I am no mistress. Just plain Ivorwen.  Happy to help.  It’s nice to see a young face around here.”

The tray held a bowl of stew, bread, cheese and a sweet cake.  I washed these down with tea.  I washed the dishes despite Ivorwen’s protests.  It felt good to do this simple task.

As I turned to go, “Ivorwen, how did Mistress Ioreth know?”

“You and the other women in this house are her responsibility.  She keeps watch over everyone here.”  She replied with a smile.

I went to the common room to see what I had to do to get water for a bath.  I saw Ioreth talking with Andreth and some of the other women.  I knew I looked awful but I went over to the group.

“Mistress Ioreth,”

“Ah Eolind�.  You’re awake I see.  Did Ivorwen take care of you?”

“Yes, ma’am, I would like to take a bath, uh, what should I do for hot water?”  I asked awkwardly.

“You heat it yourself, girl.” Andreth put in.

Ioreth gave Andreth a sharp look.  “Come, I will help you.”  She said taking me by the hand.

Together we hauled several buckets of hot water.  I pulled out a little packet of rose scented soap and added to the water.  She smiled and said. “Come back to the common room when you are done.  I would like to talk to you.”

I wanted to soak in the scented water but there was only a small fire in my room, the water grew cold quickly.  Another time perhaps.  I dressed quickly and went to find Ioreth.

“Master Cirin has requested to tutor you.” She began.  I nodded remembering vaguely the earlier conversation.

“Normally I would not agree.  He wishes to teach you battlefield medicine.  It is much more demanding than tending minor wounds, fevers and such.  Also, you are an unmarried girl.  Such work would not be considered proper for you.”  My face fell at her words.

“But,” she continued.  “Rumors are flying around the city about a possible battle with the Dark Lord.  If this is so, then every pair of hands will be needed.  You have a gift.  And I feel in my bones that you should be allowed to use this gift.  So, I have given my permission for you to learn with Master Cirin.”  She finished.

I was speechless.  “Are you sure, Mistress?”

“Well of course I am sure you silly girl.  I wouldn’t have agreed otherwise.  And don’t worry about your reputation.  Such things are meaningless in a time of war.  In the end, the lives you save will offset any damage to your reputation.  The ladies may gossip but the men will remind them who keep them alive.”

“Thank you Mistress.” I sputtered.

“Well don’t thank me yet.  It will be unpleasant work.  Now off to bed with you.  Master Cirin wants you at the Houses bright and early tomorrow.  Oh and your brother came by with a note earlier.”  She handed me the note.

I read it by the firelight.  He was leaving at first light with a company to strengthen the garrison of Cair Andros.  As I lay down, my thoughts flitted from Eored to Master Cirin and Ioreth.  But it was Dior’s smile that I saw last as I closed my eyes.

Feb 30

I awoke with the cock crow.  I quickly pulled on my ranger leggings and tunic, threw on my cloak and headed to the stable.  There was a small crowd gathered to see the men off.
I found Elred quickly.  “Fine morning for a ride, wouldn’t you say brother?” I asked as I patted Beleg’s nose.

“’lind�!” and he swept me up in a fierce hug.  “I am indeed blessed to have my dear sister see me off.” His eyes belied his jovial tone.

“I couldn’t let you go without this.”  I handed him a small handkerchief wrapped around some dried rosemary and violets. 

“Rosemary.  The herb of remembrance.  And violets from the pasture”  he said quietly.

“I know you will take care.”  I said.

“Don’t I always take care?” he asked with mock indignation.

“Well there was that time when you were 10…”

“That was a long time ago. We’re just going to re-enforce the garrison.  Shall I give Alcarin your regards?” he asked slyly.

“Elred, I am not that easily fooled.  I know things are serious.  Master Cirin is going to be tutoring me in battlefield medicine.”  I said baldly.

“But, you are still a …”

“A maid?  Eored, the skills I will learn will save lives, even yours if it came to it.  I am not worried about what others think.”  He nodded.

“If I should not return…” he said hesitantly.

“You will return.  What would I do without your teasing?” I replied.  He put his arms around me and hugged me again.  “Take care of yourself, sister.”  He kissed my forehead and once on each cheek for our parents.  He swung himself onto Beleg and tucked the handkerchief in his saddlebag.

I patted Beleg and said in Rohirric, “ Take care of him, Beleg.  Bring him home.” 

“Ready Elred?”  another familiar voice sounded in my ear.  It was Faramir.  He looked worn but had a smile.  My heart leaped at that smile.

“Yes, sir.  I was just saying good-bye to my sister.”

“One of these days you’ll have to get yourself a sweetheart to do this.  Your sister shouldn’t be dragged out of bed at cock crow for the likes of you.”  Elred and I chuckled at this.  

“Sweetheart or not.  I would be here.”  I said simply.  He looked at me with sympathy.  “I know.”  The call came.  “Move out.”  I watched from the wall as the company rode away.  My heart seemed to be squeezed and a tear trickled down my cheek.

“Are you alright, mistress.”  asked Faramir.

“Yes, sir I am.”  I smiled.  The morning light glinted off his black hair, his face was tired and his eyes held grief in them.  “Sir, are you well?”

“I am well enough, mistress.  Like you, I miss my brother when he is gone.  And last night…” his voice trailed off.

“Sir?”  I asked.

“‘Twas nothing, just a dream I had about Boromir.” He said.  “May I escort you somewhere Mistress?” he asked kindly.  My heart soared.  Faramir wanted to escort me.

“I was going to check on Halan and then return to the Houses.”  At that moment, a messenger interrupted with a summons for Faramir to see his father.  “Well, mistress, I regret to tell you that you will have to do without my company.  My father has need of me.” He said somewhat bitterly. My heart sank like a stone.

“Well thank you for your kind offer sir.  Perhaps another time?”  I said brightly.

“Another time, then.”  He bowed and took his leave.

When I reached the Houses, I went to Dior’s room to see how he was faring.  There seemed to be some commotion coming from the room as I approached.

“I’m not leaving until she gets here.” Said Dior.

“Son, I am sure the young lady has other duties to attend to.  You can send her a note.” Said his father.

“What is this all about?’ I asked as I stepped into the room.

“There you are.”said Dior.  “I didn’t want to leave without saying thank you.” He gave his father a stern look.

“You are welcome Dior.  Now let your father take you home so you can finish mending.”  I said with a smile.

“Now that you have said your piece.  Come Dior, Donal is waiting with the wagon.”  Dior’s father barely looked at me.

“You will come visit me, won’t you?” he pleaded like a young boy.  I glanced at his father and saw the look of annoyance.

“Ah Dior.  I have many duties here and at my new home.  I do not know if I can get away.  I am sure your servants will take excellent care of you.”  I said.  I made a small curtsey and left quickly.  I didn’t want to see the hurt in his eyes.

That evening I went to visit Halan.  A stable hand told me that Faramir had been sent to Ithilien.  

.


Chapter 15 - Love and Duty

Chapter 14 

March 5

I began my lessons with Master Cirin the morning Dior had gone home.  I was already well versed in caring for minor wounds, fevers and the like.  Master Cirin taught me how to care for more serious wounds.  I learned how to set bones, close deep cuts, remove arrows and darts.  I practiced on animal parts as this would be close to the real thing.  I enjoyed learning but there were moments when I didn’t think I could ever eat meat again.  

When I was not with Master Cirin, I busied myself with other duties.  There was always cleaning to be done as well as the stocking of herbs and other supplies.  I had my turn of chores at home too.  I tried not to think about Eored and the others in the wilderness.

Finally, Master Cirin gave me the morning off.  I decided to go to the practice fields.  I had been inside most of the time and felt the need to move and not think.  I found a small unused courtyard off from the main fields.  I went through the forms. I heard my father’s voice in my head advising and admonishing me but my heart was no longer in it.  Before I went to Ithilien, I loved to practice and spar with the others.  It was always a mixture of serious intent and laughter.  Since I had seen actual battle and death, I was not as eager to use them.  I brought my sword around to catch an imaginary enemy behind me.  Metal clanged on metal and I was startled to see Dior with his sword parrying my attack.  He looked thin and pale but his dark eyes sparkled.

“So the healer still wields a blade.” He asked with a grin.  I lowered my blade and stepped away from him.

“Only out of necessity, Dior.”  I took out a rag to wipe my face.  The air seemed to have gotten very warm all of a sudden.  “I will not be volunteering to go into battle any time soon.  What are you doing here anyway?”  I asked.

He lowered his blade.  “I came to see you.  I sent a note ‘round to your aunt’s house but no one was there.”

“No.  They have left and refuged to Lossenach.” I wiped my blade.  “I understand an order has gone out for the women, children, the old, and the infirm to leave.”

“And you?”

“Oh I am not going anywhere.  I am needed here.  I am staying at the House of the Noldiel.”

He nodded.  “I was going mad being cooped up in the house.  I begged Father to let me go practice and get my strength back.  He finally relented.  Besides, Gondor will need every able bodied man it can find.”

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“I overheard Father.  Scouts are reporting that an army is massing at Minas Morgul.  It is the opinion of the captains that it will not be long before Sauron comes for Minas Tirith.”  

I shivered at his words and my thoughts turned to Faramir and the others facing such an army.  “Elred went with a company to Cair Andros to strengthen the garrison there.”  

“I had heard.  But, enough gloom and doom.  The sun is shining and I am ready to spar with the prettiest shieldmaiden this side of the Anduin.”  He held his sword up challenging me.  My face grew hot at his words.

“Charm will not help you, Dior.  Let us see how much you have forgotten.”  

I began with a simple attack.  He parried easily.  So the game was on.  At first, we were slow and then as we grew comfortable our speed increased.  I could tell Dior was getting tired.  And then he winked at me.  I was so surprised that I lost my concentration for a moment and he disarmed me easily.

“Oh!” I sputtered.

“That’ll teach ya.”  he said laughingly.

“Ha!  You did that because you were getting tired and were going to lose.”  I said haughtily.

“Well it worked didn’t it?” he countered. 

I muttered some Rohirric curses and picked up my sword. 

“Come on, let’s go again.” He said eagerly.

“Dior, I can’t.” his face fell at my words. “I just don’t have any more time today.”
I have duties to attend to.  I only came out here to get some fresh air.  I’m sure some of the other men here would be happy to spar with you.  

“Well, what about tomorrow?” he asked.  “Perhaps you could help me with my archery.” He said slyly. The memory of our contest brought a smile to my face. And his smile was really quite endearing I thought.  “Very well.  But it will have to be at first light.  I really am busy at the Houses.  The soldiers aren’t the only ones who need to prepare for battle.”

He nodded.  “Tomorrow then.”  He saluted me and went off to find another sparring partner.  I shook my head and went home to clean up.



March 6

True to his word.  Dior was at the practice field at first light with his bow.  We practiced and I offered him some suggestions. He didn’t really need my help though.  Faramir’s Rangers were well known for their skills with the bow.  Then he asked me to position his arms.  “You cannot be serious Dior.  Your technique is fine.” I responded with incredulity.

“No I am serious.  Please show me.” He asked flashing that charming smile.

“Very well.”  I walked over and moved his arms a bit.  Somehow, I ended up putting my arms around him, positioning his hands and arms.  My heart beat a little faster and I grew warm being so close to him.  “There!  Now shoot.”  I moved away from him quickly.  I heard him chuckle under his breath as he let the arrow fly.  It hit the target dead center.

“I think that is all I want to practice for today.” I said hastily, gathering up my things.  “I have to meet with Master Cirin this morning.”  He gave me a knowing look.  “Tomorrow morning with our swords again?” he asked mildly.

“Ah actually, I owe Halan a ride so I was going to take him out tomorrow morning.” I said hoping that would put him off.  He was starting to disturb my peace of mind.

“I’ll meet you at the stables.  Carnil could use the exercise too.”  he said matter of factly.

“Until tomorrow, milady.” He said with a bow.  I just shook my head and made my way to the Houses. 

That night I reviewed the events of the morning.  Dior’s behavior confused me.  On one hand he was Elred’s friend someone I had known for several years.  On the other hand, “He’s not acting very friend-like.  But why?   Perhaps he is just teasing me like Elred does. He knows I miss Elred and so he is trying to distract me.  That must be it.” While I was satisfied with that conclusion, a tiny voice asked, “Are you sure?”  “Of course I’m sure.  I love Faramir.  Dior is just a friend.”  With that, I fell asleep.

March 7

The morning was cool and the sun was rising over the river.  I saddled Halan.  He was eager for a run.  “We will have company today, Halan.  Dior and Carnil are coming with us.”  He shook his head.  “You be nice to Carnil.  None of your usual tricks now.” He snorted in reply.

I led him outside and mounted as Dior rode up.  Carnil was a chestnut stallion slightly bigger than Halan.  The horses sized each other up as Dior greeted me.

“A fine morning for a ride don’t you think?”

“Indeed it is.  Shall we?”  We made our way slowly to the Gates.  Once outside the city walls, I let Halan have his head.  The wind whistling in my ear, the rhythm of Halan’s hooves and the feel of his muscles moving fluidly beneath me was pure magic.  To me this was the essence of being of the �oth�od. The horse and rider moving as one.   Eventually, I reined Halan in.  Dior rode up as I slowed him to a walk.

‘That was quite a sight.” He said appreciatively.  I shrugged my shoulders and patted Halan.  “I’m sorry I took off like that.  Halan was itching for a gallop.  And I can’t say I don’t blame him.  It feels good to be out here.”

“You miss your home in Rohan, don’t you?” he asked.

“Yes, I do.  For one used to wide open spaces and flat lands, the walls of the city seem confining.” I replied.  He seemed hurt by this answer.  “But,” I continued, “I am learning so much here.  The knowledge and experience I am gaining here are not to be taken lightly.  It seems I am not truly at home in either place.”  I chuckled softly.

“I think home is where your heart lies, not so much a place.” He replied.  “And I think you will make a home for yourself wherever you decide to live.”  

“What about you?” I asked turning the question back on him.  “Surely you will follow in your father’s footsteps, become part of the Citadel Guard?”

He grimaced.  “That is what is expected of me, yes.  That I take my place in the guard.  But, after being out in Ithilien with Captain Faramir the city walls do seem to close in around you.  And the guard itself is very old with much tradition.  I am not always comfortable with all that ceremony and formality.”

“Well, I would say to you what you said to me.  You will find your place also.”  I said with a smile.  He chuckled and we headed back to the City and our duties for the day. But, before we parted, Dior maneuvered me into going riding again the next morning.


Chapter 16 - Beacons

March 8

The next morning, Dior and I met again to ride.  Words like �Sauron�, �invasion�, and �siege� had started to fly around the city.  The White Tower remained silent, however and no official word came.  As we made our way through the city to the gates, I was struck by how quiet everything seemed to be.  The streets were virtually deserted except for soldiers and a few others on errands.  Halan and I nearly ran over a peite dark-haired woman carrying an armful of scrolls.  As I pulled Halan up to avoid her, she looked up.  �Oh goodness me.  I am sorry.  I was in such a hurry to get these maps to the Lord Denethor that I was not looking where I was going.  Oh hello, Dior.� She said with a grin.

�Hello Mistress Llewyn.  I am glad that my friend did not run over the best mapmaker in Minas Tirith.� He replied with a chuckle.

�My lady, no apology is necessary.  Riding a horse through the city is tricky even the best of times.  Let us not keep you from the Steward.� I said.  The lady winked at Dior and continued on her way.

�That was the best mapmaker in Minas Tirith?�  I asked as we rode on.

�Yes she is.  I was lucky enough to have her as a tutor for my geography lessons.�  I made no reply and did not ask about the wink.

We rode silently.  Halan seemed content to go at slow pace and I felt no urge to gallop. 
Suddenly, Halan started and whinnied.  Several riders roared past us.

�The errand-riders.  The Lord Denethor is sending them out to request the aid of Rohan and the surrounding country-side.�

�My people will come.�  I said simply.  Dior nodded and we continued with our ride.  After going for a little while, Dior stopped. 

�Eolind�.�  He said.  I turned to face him.  He had a serious look on his face.

�What is Dior?�  

�I wasn�t going to say anything but��

�But what?�

�My father has told me that the captains believe a large force will be marching on Minas Tirith very soon.� He seemed to struggle to get the words out.

�I won�t lie to you.  It does not look good.  We are severely outnumbered.�

�So we really are going to be attacked?�

�Yes.  Sauron hates the men of Westerness.  He already has Minas Ithil.  It is called Minas Morgul now and home to the Nazgul.  He longs to see Minas Tirith in ruins.�

Do you see that shadow on the eastern horizon?�  I looked in the direction he pointed.  A shadow seemed to be boiling up from the horizon.  �It is the Enemy.�  Dior remarked.  �He sends a cloud to aid his orcs in their march.  They cannot endure the sun for long you know.�  I nodded but a shiver of fear ran through me.  I had never seen an orc, only heard tales of them.  They seemed to be ugly, cruel creatures.  I had no desire to see one.  

�Your brother is in the path of that army, Eolind�.  He� he may not return.�

�I know.�  I said.  �It is a fear I carry with me all the time, Dior.  I try not to dwell on it.  But, I will not lose the hope I have.  He is not in danger yet.  And until I learn something new, I will continue to trust that he will return. The women of the Eothoed are used to seeing our men ride off to battle.  We refuse to sit by the hearth and worry.  There horses to be cared for, crops to be looked to.�

�You are quite brave.�

�I have to be.  I don�t know any other way to keep from going mad with fear and worry.�

�He asked me to look after you.�

�He what!� I screeched.

�He� asked me to take care of you if something were to happen to him�� he trailed off.

�I think I am capable of looking after myself thank you.  You must have misunderstood him.� My voice bristled with indignation.

�No I don�t think I did.  He specifically told me to take care of you.  He said he felt better knowing that you would not be alone.� he replied gently. �I do not think he doubted your ability to take of yourself but he did not want you to be left without anyone to lean on� he had an odd look on his face like he wanted to say more.  My anger melted.  He and Elred were right of course.  But it irked me that Elred had gone behind my back.  

�Well, he could have told me this.�

�I am sure he meant to.  But events were moving too quickly.�

�No, he was afraid I would object.� I said tersely.  Dior looked hurt.  �Oh I am not angry with you, Dior.� He seemed relieved at that. �Elred knows better but I guess he felt it was easier this way.  When I see him again I am definitely going to take him to task for being so underhanded.�

�I am sure he meant well.  But I am here if you need anything.� Dior replied and placed his hand over mine.

�Thank you, Dior.�  He gave my hand a squeeze.  His eyes caught mine for a moment.  I was surprised to see such affection in his gaze.  He leaned towards me.  And at that moment, Halan decided he wanted to gallop.  He took off and I was barely able to hang on.  Finally, I got him under control.  As Dior rode up, I was berating Halan for taking off with me unprepared.  

�Are you alright?�  he asked worry etched on his face.

�Yes, but none too pleased with this horse of mine.  He usually doesn�t act like that.  Not sure what got into him.�

�Well as long as you are alright.�

�Yes.  Perhaps we should return to the city.�  Dior nodded and we rode back slowly to stables. 

The rest of the day passed quietly but there was a tension in the air that was almost palpable.  The city was in a state of watchful waiting.  That evening, I felt restless so I went for a walk.  I put my sword and cloak on and went out.  There was only the occasional torch lighting the walkway. The stars in the east were covered with a shadow. I noted the star of Earendil and I felt some comfort.  A flash of red from a place in the mountain caught my eye.

�The beacon of Amon D�n.� remarked Dior.  I jumped at the sound of his voice.

�Goodness, Dior.  You nearly made jump out of my skin.�

�Sorry.  I did not mean to frighten you.  So, the beacons are lit.�

�Yes, Eilenach, Nardol, Erelas, Min-Rimmon, Calenhad ending at Halifirien.�

�You know where the beacons are?� 

�My father is a man of Gondor.  He taught Elred and myself the names and what they meant.�  I finished quietly.  Dior nodded.  The torchlight reflected in his eyes.  I seemed to hold my breath as he put his arms around me and lowered his lips on mine.  I was so caught off guard by his kiss that I didn't know what to think.  And then it was over.  He held me tight and kissed my hair.

�Dior, I�� I tried to speak.  I gently pushed away from his embrace.  He reluctantly let go.  �Is everything all right?�  I asked.  �Have you heard something?�  He looked at me with disbelief.  �Ah no.  It�s just that.  Well.  I�ve wanted to do that for a very long time.�

I could hardly believe what I was hearing.  �You wanted to kiss me?�  I know I sounded stupid but I could not fathom what his purpose was.

�Yes.� he replied shyly.

�This isn�t some kind of wager is it?�  I said suspiciously.

�No!  I would never do that to you.  I care for you very much.�

�And I care for you.  We are friends are we not?�  I asked.  I feared the direction the conversation seemed to be going.  

�Well yes��  

�Good.  Because I would hate to lose our friendship over a moment of weakness.�

�Moment of weakness?� he looked incredulous.

�I cannot think of another explanation.  Neither of us has been drinking so it�s not that.  It must have been the torchlight.�  I said with a small laugh.  �You couldn�t resist my charms by torchlight.�  

He looked confused and then shook his head.  �Well, you are very pretty.� He grinned.

�Well it�s late.  I best get back to the Houses before someone notices I am gone.�

�I�ll walk with you.� He offered.

�No.  You better not.  If I am seen with you, they will think I have been out being �improper�.  It�s best that I go back alone.�  He reluctantly agreed.

�I will see you tomorrow then.� he said.   Then he bowed and walked away.  I hurried back to the House.  I tried to dismiss the kiss.  But it wouldn�t go away and I puzzled over it as I fell asleep.


Chapter 17 - A horse is a horse

March 9

The sun shining through my window awoke me as well as the breakfast bell.  I was soon clad in a dress and apron, my face scrubbed clean and my hair braided.  As it was my turn, I went to the kitchen to help Ivorwen ready the food.  She was singing while she put out the bowls of oatmeal, bread and dried fruit.  I carried these to the dining hall and placed them on the table.  I went back and got pitchers of cold water.  There was only a little tea and that was reserved for Ioreth and the elders.

�Well, it�s not as nice a meal as we are used to but it will have to do.  Supplies are tight in the city.� Ivorwen said.

�Maybe so.  But I know from experience that a solid meal such as this can keep you going for a long time.�  I replied remembering the many bowls I had eaten before doing my chores.  She looked at me and smiled.  �Aye, you�re right about that lass.�  

I made my way around the room filling tankards and removing bowls.  I was bringing more hot water to the head table when I heard Andreth�s harsh voice.  �She was out late, I�m telling you.  That girl has no business being here.�  I knew at once that she was referring to me.  

Ioreth replied.  �Oh Andreth, leave off.  She is a gifted healer.  But she is young and perhaps a bit restless.  She is from Rohan.  I�m sure these walls can feel confining after a time.  I see no harm in her going for a walk provided she doesn�t go far.�  

�More hot water Mistresses?� I said with a smile.

�Ah yes, Eolind�.  That would be quite lovely.  And after you are done here, find Silmair�.  There�s an apothecary down on the third circle that has promised to give us what�s left of his stock for the Houses.  I want you two to fetch what he has.�  
�Yes, Mistress.� I replied with a curtsy. 

I finished my kitchen duties and found Silmair�.  She was sitting by the door, baskets in hand.  �Ah there you are.  Ioreth told me you would be along as soon as you were finished in the kitchen.�  She handed me a basket.  �I am so looking forward to this.  I get so tired of seeing just women all the time.  Perhaps we shall see some the soldiers.� she said with a smile.  I must have looked surprised since she laughed and said, �Oh come now, just because I�m old doesn�t mean I�m dead!� and I laughed with her.

It did feel good to be out in the morning sun.  We walked briskly and talked.  A company of somewhat rough looking soldiers did indeed cross our path.  They bowed and smiled appreciatively. One of them asked, �And where are you lovely ladies headed to?  I thought all the women had been evacuated �

�We work in the Houses of Healing.  My companion and I are on our way to Brindel�s shop to collect the supplies he agreed to donate.� I saw his eyebrow go up as he caught sight of the sword hanging at my side.

�Are times so grim that the women carry swords too?�  he asked with grin.

�I am also a shieldmaiden of Rohan.  This is my blade and I know how to use it.  As for the times, well that remains to be seen does it not?�

�A shieldmaiden eh?  Well, I have heard tell of such but never thought to meet one in the flesh.�  The others started to pay attention to our exchange.  

�And now you have.  Gentlemen, if you please, we really must be on our way.� I tugged on Silmair�s arm and we began to walk away.

�A healer and a shieldmaiden.  Makes a man wonder other talents you might have.� The men guffawed, Silmair� gasped as I pulled her along continued to walk.

�Oh Eolind�!  That nasty man!  I am so sorry.  And to think I was looking forward to seeing some soldiers.� she said mournfully.

�Don�t let it trouble you� I told her.  �They are not worth a moment of your concern.� Silmair� shook her head.  Inwardly I seethed, but knew that there was nothing I could do.  The sword at my side did give me a measure of comfort though.  

We reached the shop as the sun was beginning to climb over the wall.  Brindel did not have much but he gave us all he had.  We had started back when we heard a horse�s hooves behind us.  As we moved against the wall, a magnificent white horse came around the corner.  The horse carried two riders; an old man clad in white and in front of him was a young boy.  They passed us quickly and continued up the road.  
 
�I don�t believe it.�  I exclaimed.

�What, who was that?� Silmair� asked.

��Tis Shadowfax!  The meara, the horse of the king of Rohan, Theoden. Who was riding him I do not know.� I said with pride. I pushed my basket into Silmair�s hands.  �I must go to the stables!�  I announced.

�What!?� she cried in disbelief.  �You can�t do that!  We are expected back with these supplies.� 

�I know.  But I must go, just to see.  He is the greatest horse in Rohan.  I have to see him!�  She looked at me as though I was a madwoman.  
�But we have to get back.� she pleaded.  �You�ll think of something.  Just go to the Houses and start putting things away.  I won�t be long.�  I picked up my skirts and began running toward the stables.

I skidded to a stop at the entrance.  It was indeed Shadowfax.  His white coat gleamed in the morning sun.  His proud head high and erect, his eyes bright. I approached slowly.  The stable hands were leading him to a stall tentatively. 

�Allow me.�  I spoke boldly.  I switched to Rohirric. �Hail Shadowfax.  Meara of the king and fairest horse in all Rohan.  May I see to your care?�  I was shaking but spoke clearly.  His eyes focused on me.  He whinnied and shook his head.  And he went into the stall.  I heard a whoosh of breath behind me.  The stablehands� eyes were wide with amazement.  �Is something wrong?�  

�Er no miss.  I suppose you�ll be wanting this.� Said one handing me a brush.  I brushed his coat though it seemed to need little brushing.  I untangled a few small knots in his mane.  My heart soared with pride at being near the great animal. �Elred will be green with envy when I tell him,� I thought.  And then I remembered.  He was helping man the crossing at Cair Andros.  I might not see him again.  �Can�t think about that now.�  �Shadowfax, I must go now but thank you for allowing me to brush you.  I will see that the hands feed you well.� He nodded and nuzzled my hand.  

�Give him all the hay and oats he desires.  Plenty of water too.�  I told the hand standing at the door.  He nodded silently. 

I ran all the way to the Gate before the Houses.  The odds were not in my favor and I stood a good chance of being caught.  I took a side entrance and scurried to the herb room where Silmair� was unpacking.  She looked up and grinned.  �You�re lucky.  No one has been by.  I think the arrival of the White Wizard has stirred things up.�  I let out a sigh of relief.  

As we put away the supplies, I tried to explain to Silmair� why seeing Shadowfax had been so important.  She shook her head, �No, Eolind�.  I don�t understand.  I did not grow up around horses.  But, no harm was done and it made you happy.�  After putting away our supplies, we helped ready the wains for the old and infirm who were being sent out from the city to the South.

At sunset, the Captains of the West arrived at the gate.  Silmarie and I stood along the wall and watched from a distance as they entered in. They were few but appeared valiant.  My thoughts turned toward home and the Riders.  Had Lord Denethor�s message gotten through, had the beacons been seen?  Would my King and his men come?

When we reached the House a note from Dior was waiting for me. �I must speak to you this evening regarding Halan. I shall come after the dinner hour.�  I wondered what he meant.  I told Ioreth and she allowed it on one condition, that Silmair� or one of the other ladies chaperon.  �We must try to preserve some appearance of civility.  Your reputation is in danger as it is.�  I nodded.

Dior arrived. He bowed to Silmair� as she sat in a corner tearing bandages.

�I have come to ask to borrow Halan.�  he said earnestly.

�Borrow Halan?� I asked.

�Well, it�s actually for the Tower Guard.  They have need for good horses so riders can go to and from the outgarrisons.  I know I am asking a great deal of you but I give you my word that he will be cared for.�  
My heart was torn.  Halan was mine.  I cringed at the thought of others riding him perhaps mishandling him. 
�If it might make things easier, I will be riding him.� he said.

�You!  But it�s not been that long since your fever.�

�I serve where I am told to.� he said quietly.  

As he looked at me, I pondered his request.  At first, I thought of refusing.  But, it was Dior and Halan was needed.  My gut tightened as I spoke,  �Yes, Dior.  You may borrow Halan.  You and Elred are probably the only people I would entrust him to.�  

He clasped my hand and squeezed it.  �Thank you �lind�.  I will bring him back.�  Again there was a look in his eyes that he wanted to do more than just clasp my hand.  

�I�ll go round the stables in the morning, to tell him and make sure he behaves.� I said grinning. 

�There�s no need.  I� rode him today.� He looked guilty like a boy caught raiding the pantry.

I looked at him sputtering and shocked.  �You rode him without asking me?�  Silmair� looked up at the sound of my voice.  He squirmed.  �I told him he was needed.  He didn�t seem to mind.  He behaved beautifully.� his voice trailed off.

I was completely at a loss.  Halan was my horse, even Elred did not ride him.
 
 �I had messages that needed to be delivered.  Please don�t be angry.  I would have asked but the time was pressing.  I did what I thought was best for the city.�  The soldiers who were so rude sprang to mind at his last statement.

�Best for the city! Ha!  Well if the soldiers Silmair� and I came across today are an example of the best of the city.  I would think twice about helping them.�

�What?  What happened?� he asked disturbed.

�They insulted Eolind� pipped up Silmair�

�Some soldiers of Gondor insulted you? When, where?� he asked with anger in his voice.
I refused to speak.  Anger sparked in his eyes as Silmair� told the brief tale.
�I had my sword with me Dior.   I was capable of taking care of Silmair� and myself.�  
 
�Good.  Keep it on you when you go out.  While the men of Gondor are men of honor, not all of us are honorable.  I am sorry for your distress.�

�Well, it is in the past.  You have my permission to use Halan as you see fit. But do bring him back, he is quite dear to me.� I said quietly.  He nodded.  

�I must get back to the captain�s.  Thank you Eolind�.  I will not forget your generosity.�  He kissed the back of Silmair�s hand.  �Thank you lady for playing chaperon.� Then mine.  A tingle went up my arm when his lips touched my skin. And then he was gone.  

�He is quite the gentleman.  And I do believe he is sweet on you.� Silmair� said teasingly. 

�Oh hush.  He is a fine man almost as fine as Captain Faramir.�  I said with sigh.

�Captain Faramir?  Oh you do have high standards.�  she replied.

�Yes, I do.� I answered.  At that moment, one of the older women came to tell us that the torches were being extinguished for the night and that we best get to our beds.


Chapter 18 - The Dawnless Day

March 10 The Dawnless Day

I awoke with a start.  It was still dark and yet I heard the voices of the other women.  Ioreth came in.  �Wakeup, sleepyhead.  It is past the second hour.�
�What!  But it is still dark outside.�  I said, sitting upright.
�And there will be no sun today.  A shadow from the East has covered us.�  My heart skipped a beat.  �Then it has been over Ithilien since yesterday.� I murmured to myself.  
�Come. There is still much that needs to be done.� said Ioreth.  
�Who was the young man that came to see you last night? asked Annith.   
�His name is Dior.  He is a friend of my brother�s.  He is a messenger for the Citadel Guard and needed to borrow my horse.� I answered nonchalantly.
�He�s quite the gentleman and very easy on the eyes.� put in Silmair�.
�Needed to borrow your horse, you say?� said Annith slyly.
�Yes.  Halan is a well-trained warhorse and there are not many horses left in Minas Tirith that could do the job.  I do not need him right now so I let Dior borrow him. That is all.� I said briskly, hoping to end the conversation.
�Ah.� Annith and Silmair� both smiled at me and gave me a knowing look. 

Silmair� and I busied ourselves in the storeroom. We helped the last of sick and weak to leave the city. We looked for things to do anything to push dread in our hearts away for a while. The city was covered in dim light and no one spoke much. We knew a storm was coming.  When it would come was still a mystery.  At the noonday meal, we heard about the Prince of the Halflings that had come with Mithrandir.  �Looks no bigger than a boy,� said Annith.  �But he is full-grown for his people they say.� Later, Bergil told us about meeting the halfling, Pippin, and that he was called a hobbit.  Denethor had made him part of the Citadel Guard.  I wondered what Dior thought about it. 

At sundown, as we were preparing to leave for home, we heard a screeching cry.  A large black beast with wings swooped over the city.  Some people covered their ears and all were struck with fear.  I doubled over with pain and nausea.  �Elred.�
 
�Eolind�, what�s wrong?� asked Annith, who walking beside me, her voice shaking with fear.
 
�That thing. Elred.� was all I could get out.  A strong arm came around my shoulders and held me up.  It was Dior.  His face was dirty and he looked tired. He looked up.  �They are the Nazgul.  Servants of the Dark Lord.�  He looked out over the battlement.  �There are four more and they are attacking something in the distance.  Come!�  he took my hand and we stumbled to the Gate.  I caught a glimpse of the halfling in the black and silver of the Citadel.  The screaming of the creatures and their riders tore at my heart.   Any courage I had, left me.   All I wanted to do was run and hide from that terrible shrieking. I heard Annith sobbing behind me.  

�I must be strong.� I told myself. �For Elred.�  Faramir�s trumpet was heard and the cheers rose up.  The Black Riders were attacking the small group of horsemen.  Then a white light started to shine.  A lone rider clad in white riding Shadowfax was racing toward the group.  The light from his staff drove the creatures back and away from the group.  I saw the halfling race by and I followed him.
`
At the entrance to the Citadel, I saw Faramir and the wizard called Mithrandir.  Then I saw Elred.  I pushed through the crowd to my brother.  Beleg was breathing heavily, sweat dripped from his sides and his eyes still held fear.  Eored was hanging on to Beleg and practically fell into my arms.  
�Eolind�.�  He said quietly and he hugged me fiercely.
�Elred.�  I hugged him back with tears in my eyes.  He looked up and held my face in his hands.  �I thought I would never see you again.  I �� he spoke thickly.
�Shh. Don�t say anything.  You are here safe.�
Dior walked up and took Beleg�s reins.  He spoke gently to the horse and Beleg�s breathing started to slow.  Elred looked up.
�Dior, my friend.  You�re looking well.�
�I wish I could say the same for you my friend.�
Elred let go of me.  �I need to see to Beleg.�
�I will see to him.  Go and let your sister take care of you.�  said Dior and began walking Beleg to the stables.
I walked Elred to the house.  I fed him and treated some minor cuts he had.  His eyes were dark and he shuddered occasionally.  
�Thank you for the meal. Eolind�.  I must get back to the Captains to help make a report.  The enemy is moving on Osgiliath and will take the River soon.  We are outnumbered and I do not think the fort will hold out.� 
I started to speak but it died on my lips as I saw the look in his eyes.  They were remote and hard.  I swallowed my words and asked instead, �Is there anything I can do for you?� 
�Give me a flask of silith.  That will be enough.� 
�But Elred��
�I don�t have time to argue with you!� he snapped.�Just give me a damn flask and let me be.� I reluctantly gave him my small flask that had gone with me to Ithilien.  I had managed to refill it before leaving our Aunt�s house.  He took and left without another word.

March 11
I slept fitfully.  The echo of the Nazgul�s scream filled my head.  In the dim morning light, I got up to make some tea.  A knock came on the door.  It was Elred.  �Captain Faramir has been ordered to defend the Rammas.  I am going with him.�  He said flatly.
�But you said last night that the enemy was attacking Osgiliath.   That their numbers are too great to hold the city or even the River.  This is madness.�
�Maybe so but Captain Faramir needs me.� he said wearily.
�But�� he held up his hand to forestall me.  �We will be leaving within the hour. I am sorry for being rude earlier.� he said sadly.  
�I will be there.�  I said.
�Thank you,� he said and hugged me fiercely.  

Within the hour, I was standing with others in the first circle. There was no sound except for the clip clop of horse�s hooves.  Many threw flowers in the path of the men. The men, themselves were grim.  Fixed on their purpose.  I caught Faramir�s eye. He smiled faintly and saluted me.  Elred nodded to me as he passed. They made their way to the Gate.  I shed no tears but sent up a silent prayer that my brother and the others would come back.

I stood in my place for a long while.  Then I saw the wizard.  I had to meet this person who rode the meara of Theoden King. He was sitting on crate, head bowed.
�Excuse me sir.�
�Hmm what is it?�
�Sir.  My name is Eolind�.  I am from Rohan and I just had to speak to the one who rides the meara of Theoden.�  I finished quickly.
He looked startled and then laughed.
�Eolind�, daughter of Rohan.  I am called Mithrindir. Shadowfax and I have been friends for many years.  Your king has given him to me for these dark times.�  He stopped and looked at me closely.  �You have Gondorian blood also.  Few Rohirrim have grey eyes like yours.�
�My father is from Minas Tirith.  He and my mother train and raise horses in the Southfold.� I squirmed a little under his scrutiny.  �My twin brother, he was in the company that Faramir led out this morning.�
�So he goes to throw his life away too.� he said angrily as he stood. I winced.
�He went because he must.� I said.
�Oath of Eorl.  The Rohirrim. They must come.� he said to himself.
�They will.�  I answered proudly.
�But will it be in time?� he asked. Then he looked at me again. �Why have you not left the city?�
�I am a healer in the Houses.  My skill will be needed.�
�Indeed it will, my dear.  Indeed it will.�  And he turned to go.
�Here you are.�  Dior came around the corner as he was leaving. �Mithrandir.� He made a small bow. �Eolind�.  Father just told me what Faramir was ordered to do.  What a waste!� Then he stopped when he saw my face. �Eolind�, Elred did not go with them did he?�
�He did.�
�I�m so sorry.� He took my hands in his.  I backed away.
�No, Dior.  I can�t.  I can�t let my heart feel anything right now.  If I do, I will feel too much and be useless when the wounded start coming.� He looked at me strangely. 
�Very well but I am here if you have need of me.� he said quietly.
�I know.  And I am grateful we have become friends.  �Now I must go and see what needs to be done.� I said with a faint smile. 

The hours dragged by in grey dimness.  There was in fact very little to do. I tried to occupy my mind by reading an herbal text.  People wandered in and out.  They sought news and asked, �Where are the Rohirrim?  Surely they will come.�  One or two individuals had the impertinence to ask me when the horsemen would arrive. I would know being one of them after all.

�I do not know.  I have been here over a month.  I do not know what is happening any more than you do.� I replied in frustration. 

The dark of night came on and a few torches were lit. As I stared at the wall pretending to be reading, Silmaire brought me a note. I broke the seal.

�Dear Eolind�, I have been told that your reputation is being questioned, therefore, I am writing instead of coming in person.  My father has heard news. A great host is attacking from the eastern side of the River.  Southrons may also be with orc troops.  They are moving on Osgiliath and the River.  I know this must pain you and I wish there were something I could do to ease your anguish.  If I hear anything else, I will pass the word onto you. 
Dior�

A ripple went through me. I stiffened my spine and thought �There is nothing to be sorry for, Dior.  He knew what he was riding into.�  But that did not ease the fear that wove a tendril around my heart. 

I could not sleep.  I crept quietly out of the house sat on bench.  I looked in the direction that the River lay.  It was dark and shadowy. No stars lit the inky sky. The faint smell of smoke drifted by.  I tried not to think of Elred, Faramir and the others but the memories came unbidden. 

Faramir�s smile on the morning of the muster.  Sparring with my brother�s friends. The way I could talk to Elred with a mere look.  The festivals at home.  Dancing to the music of fiddle and flute. The look of the fields in the spring.  Halan galloping beneath me.

�You won�t do much good staying up late and worrying.� A gentle voice interrupted my melancholy thoughts.   It was Ioreth.  She sat beside me and put her arm around me.  �What comes will come and there is nothing you or I can do to change that.�
�I know.� I answered.
�Then come inside and get some rest while you can.�  She said firmly.
�Yes, Ma�am.� And we went in. I lay down on my cot and slept fitfully.


Chapter 19 - The Siege

March 12
My dreams were full of death and destruction.  My loved ones dead.  My hands covered with their blood.  A sense of helplessness seemed to overwhelm me.  Since sleep gave me no rest, I got up had some tea and a bite of food.  The other women were also awake.  Having the same forebodings, we tried to comfort each other.  But comfort was hard to find.

We made ourselves ready and went to the Houses.  I took along my sword.  I hoped I would not have to use it but I would be ready if I needed to be.  I hung them up by a door with my cloak.  The brown cloak still had a stain from where I had held it against Dior�s bleeding side.  A messenger brought the dreaded news.  The enemy had taken the River.  Faramir and his company were falling back.  What wounded that could be saved would be coming soon. We were also told that Mithrandir had gone to help the beleaguered defenders.  

By afternoon, Mithrandir returned with the first of the wounded from the Causeway Forts.  Now our hands were busy.   The wounds were grievous but worse was the sense of hopeless that radiated from the men.  �There were so many.  We could not hold them.  They will be here soon.�  I joined Master Ciren and began treating the wounded.  I stitched and cut.  I applied compresses and bound up cuts and slashes.  The number of wounded seemed to grow by the hour.

�My lady, Eolind�.� I looked at the man whose arm I was dressing. It was Penedir.�What is it?�  He spoke through the waves of pain.  �Your brother�� 
�What about my brother?�  I asked apprehensively.
�He stayed with Faramir and the rearguard.�
�Then he lives.�
�When I saw him, he did.�
�Thank you. Now rest.  I will send someone with something to ease your pain.�

Day slid into night, though no one could tell the difference.  Sleep and food were grabbed in snatches.  I changed aprons several times but blood soaked through to my dress in spite of my efforts.

 March 13
A few hours later, I went to the storeroom to fetch some more comfrey.  I had the jar in my hand, when a sharp blow hit.  My breath seemed to leave my body.  I felt fear and desperation.  A wave of nausea and pain passed through me as it had two days before. I dropped the jar and fell to my knees, gasping for breath. Alina heard me and came over to see what was the matter.
�Eolind�, what is it?  What�s wrong?  You�re pale as a sheet.  Here sit down.�   
�It�s nothing Alina.  I just need to rest for a moment.�  
�You are not well.  I am fetching someone.� She said resolutely.
I closed my eyes.  I knew it was Elred again.  He was under the Black Shadow fighting for his life. I pictured my carefree brother and tried to send him strength and courage. The ill feeling eased.
I slowly stood up and went over to the shattered jar. I began cleaning up the mess.
�Eolind�.� I looked up and Dior was standing over me.  
�Dior.  What are you doing here?�
�I was helping bring some of the wounded in. I was coming to fetch some comfrey for one of the healers.  The woman who just left, she said you had some kind of spell.�
 ��Twas nothing.  I probably need to eat something.� I said avoiding his eyes.  He hauled me up by the shoulders.  �Look at me!  It was Elred again wasn�t it?�  His eyes were full of concern.
�Yes.�  I said softly.
Dior put his arms around me and gently stroked my hair.  �Have hope.  He will return, alive.  He would not leave behind a sister so dear.� For the first time in many days, my fear and dread eased a little. There was something safe about being held in his arms. I looked up at his dark eyes.  He brought his lips down on mine and I was lost in his kiss. It was sweet and gentle with a hint of fire underneath.  My mind whirled. Then I remembered Faramir and the wounded.  I pulled away. I smoothed my skirt.

�Thank you, Dior.  We must get back. There will be more wounded soon.� He nodded his head and we parted in the main courtyard.

The young Bergil kept us informed of what was happening outside the City walls. The men were retreating and the enemy was swarming the field of Pelennor. I could stand it no longer and went out.  The air was choked with dust.  There was more noise than I had ever heard in my life.  I dodged the wagons and reached the Gate.  I saw the knights of Dol Amroth and the Guards of the Tower readied to make a sortie.  I thought absently that Dior�s father must be one those going out.  The fresh troops stopped the advance of the enemy and the retreating forces were able to enter through the Gate.  

I called for Elred, looking for him among the men.  Then I saw him.  He walked like a drunken man.  He was covered in dirt and blood.  
�Elred!�  I ran to him and hugged him fiercely. 
�Eolind�.� He touched my face as if in a dream.  His eyes looked dead. �Artamir is dead.  Beleg was cut out from under me.  He was such a good horse.  So many dead.  Captain Faramir.� he said dully.
�What about Captain Faramir?� At that moment, the prince of Dol Amroth rode by with Faramir in his arms.  My heart ached to see my noble Captain.  I saw the arrow wound in his shoulder.  And he moved not at all.  
Elred sagged against me. I saw he was bleeding from many slashes.  His eyes misted over. � Oh no Elred.  You have not come this far to die on me now.� I grabbed a bystander.�You! Help me get my brother to the Houses!�
When I reached the houses, Dior was helping bring the wounded in on stretchers. �Dior! Help me, please!�  I cried.  He looked up, saw me and came at once. 
�Elred my friend, well met�
�Well met, Dior.  I think you got the better bargain.� he whispered. He was insensible by the time we placed him on a cot.

He had many cuts and wounds.  I cleaned and dressed as best I could.  But the worst injury was one I was powerless to heal.  
�Why does he feel so cold?� I asked the older healer, Caroc, helping me wrap Elred�s arm.
�He has been under the Black Shadow.�  he replied. �There is no cure for the Black Breath.� Elred stirred and murmured in Rohirric.�
�Mistress Eolind�.  We have more patients!� called Master Ciren.
�I must go.�  I looked at my pale brother.
�Go, there is nothing more you can do here.� Caroc said sternly.  I kissed Elred�s forehead and met Master Ciren in the courtyard where more wounded lay on pallets.  
�Mistress, check them.  The worst you send on to me.  Treat the others as best you can.� Master Ciren said.
�Has Captain Faramir been brought here or is he dead?� I asked quickly.
�No.  He has not been brought here.  They took him to the Citadel to his father.  His condition I do not know.  But we have others that need care here. See to them.�  He replied sternly.
My world shrank to the wounded around me.  I did not see men but legs, arms, torsos and heads.  My boots and clothes became soaked with blood.  Blood mingled with other fluids and ran in rivulets over the cobblestones.  The stench in the air was foul and wretched.  I tucked a small handkerchief soaked in lavender oil in my bodice to stave off the some of the smell. Bergil and a few others would periodically pour buckets of water over the area to wash it down. It did little to wash away the horror that surrounded me. The worst was the moaning of the wounded. A constant low keening that blackened my spirit.  If I had known the nightmare that awaited me, I might have gotten on Halan�s back and rode away.  Somehow, I was able to push all my fear and revulsion into a corner of my head. I simply refused to think about what was happening around me.  I focused on my duty to the wounded.

Dior found me when the numbers of wounded had slowed.  He pushed bread and water into my hands.
�You should get some rest.� he pleaded.
�What about you?� I asked.  Dior had blood and dirt all over his tunic.  He had helped carry men in and fetched supplies.
�I must go help man the walls. I just wanted to make sure you were well.�
I laughed almost hysterically.  �Well?  In this madness?  Surely you jest.�
�Tis no jest.  You need rest.  You will not help anyone if you are asleep on your feet.�
�I must check on Elred.�  I replied. Annith was wiping his face.
�No change?�  I asked.  She shook her head and went to the next cot.
I took his cold hand in mine.�Elred, come back to me.  Please.�  I pleaded.  My pleading was in vain and he did not stir.
I leaned against the wall near Elred's cot.  Somehow my eyes began to close.  As I was drifting off, Dior laid his cloak on me and whispered �Sleep well.�

While I slept, the army of the Dark Lord advanced to surround the city.


March 14
I felt someone shaking me, calling my name.  My gritty eyes opened.  �Mistress Eolind�, Mistress Eolind�.  Wake up.  The Warden is calling for you.�  I shrugged off my cobwebs.  I glanced at my pale brother.  My blood soaked clothing had stiffened overnight.  I felt filthy.  But there was no time for a bath. A quick scrubbing of my face.
The attendant who had woken me up handed me a clean frock and an apron. 
I found a small room and changed quickly. Then I went again to bind and stitch.

It was a wretched and black day. The air was noxious with fumes and the odor of a charnel house. Bergil gave us news as he could. Grim faced, with a look far older than his years, he told us what he saw.  The Enemy was not catapulting rocks but the heads of the dead.  Defiled and made hideous.  �Mithrandir tries to rally them but it is hard to have courage when your brother�s head lands on you.�

The screeching scream of the Nazgul could occasional be heard above us.  The sound made me ill but I fought through it and kept moving on to the next man.

As we labored to save, the enemy sought to destroy.  By the middle night, the city was completely besieged and the First Circle was on fire.  When I had a moment, I thought of Dior trying to help defend the Second Gate, my brother whom lay cold and still, and Faramir in the Citadel, was he still alive?  I heard the distant crashes and booms of the siege engines.  It reminded me of a violent thunderstorm, like we had in the spring at home.  Only this storm would not clear off and reveal blue skies.


Chapter 20 - Battle of Pellenor Fields

March 15
At some late hour, I laid down on a cot to sleep.  My eyes opened to a beam of light from the window. My dress from the previous day was stiff and stained.  I didn�t dare undo the braid my hair was in.  My underclothes stuck to my skin and I wondered if I would ever feel clean again. Annith came in at that moment.
�Eolind�.  You must come and see!�
�See what?�  I asked sleepily.  I heard a distant horn and shivered.
�Its, it�s� You must come.�  She repeated tugging my arm.  I stumbled out to the wall and looked out.  
�Look.� She said pointing to the East.  The black cloud that had covered the land had broken up along the horizon. I could see the rays of a rising sun.  The beams glittered off spears.  I heard the horn blow again.  The light bounced off familiar armor.  I struck dumb.  I heard a chant of �Death�.  My heart filled to bursting with pride in my people.  The Rohirrim had come.  In the distance, I could see a figure mounted on a white horse as he rode down the line.  My king.  I had heard rumors that he was in ill health but there was no evidence of that on this morning.  And then the cry, �Forth Eorlingas!� was heard.

To the day of my passing, I will never forget the sight of my people charging the scum of Mordor. Mowing them down like harvesters in a hay field.  And the singing terrible and fierce that echoed across the field.  

My gaze traveled and I saw what they faced.  Rank upon rank of orcs, trolls and other horrid creatures.  I turned and returned the Houses.  There would be more wounded soon and I had my part to play.  A ray of hope was in my heart and pride stiffened my spine.  I was a shieldmaiden and would not shrink from the task before me.

The Rohirrim began to come in.  As I stitched, I heard my name.
�Eolind�!  Eolind�, daughter of Telemnir!�  I looked up from the man whose leg I was closing and saw my uncle.
�Uncle L�od!   Wait I�ll be right there.�  I hurriedly finished my work and rushed over to him. He was standing though he had arrow wounds in his shoulder, arm and leg.  I quickly got him to a cot and began working on him.
�Uncle, is my father with you?�  I asked.
�Aye, my girl.  He rode with us as one of our own.� He grimaced as I poured wine into the wounds.
�And��
�I fear he is dead, child.  He went down at the same time I got these.  I am sorry.�  He said.
I smothered the desire to scream.  My father who left Minas Tirith and made the plains of Rohan his home.  Who told us tales of the White Tower and the Stewards.  And sang songs in the lilting language of Numenor.  
�Thank you, uncle for bringing me the news.  Let me get you patched up.�  I said steadily. I carefully cleaned and covered the wounds.  He got up, gave me a hug, picked up his sword and headed out. I absently wondered how Dior and his father were faring. The rest of the day passed in a blur.  As I moved from one patient to the next in the courtyard, I heard snatches of news.  Black sails coming up the Anduin.  The king�s standard shown.  Isildur�s heir.  The battle raged all day into the evening.  

I was stitching the arm of a Rider when Faramir was brought in on a litter.  He lay so still and a sob caught in my throat.  Ioreth examined him.  �He�s burning with a fever, fetch cool water.�  she told Annith.  Then others brought the Lady Eowyn in. 
�My Lady!�  I cried and rushed over to the litter as they lay her down.  She was very pale.  I laid my ear near her mouth and heard her shallow breathing.  �What happened?� I asked as I checked her over.  I noted the broken shield arm.  Her sword arm was cold as mountain stream in winter.  �She killed the Captain of the Nazgul.  But in doing so, was badly hurt herself.�  A man wearing the livery of Dol Amroth said.  �The King of the Mark, Theoden is dead.  We have brought his body to the Citadel.� He told the now assembled group.  Mithrandir brought a halfling in soon after.  He was dressed in the livery of the Mark. He was also pale and insensible. I saw the other halfling stand beside the cot tears in his eyes. �He also fought against the Witch King.�  I heard Peregrine answer to someone�s question.  I knew what ailed him and the Lady Eowyn.  It was the Black Shadow. My brother was slipping away under its evil influence.  

I made my way to the storeroom, hoping some answer would manifest itself.  But all I saw were dwindling supplies.


Chapter 21 - Athelas

Annith found me staring at the shelves. �Eolind�, you�re wanted in the third room.� Sighing, I followed her. As I walked to the rooms, I passed by a young woman. She had dark hair and green eyes and I did not recognize her. �Not seen her before, wonder who she is?� I thought. She nodded at me and I returned the courtesy. The rest of the day passed in a blur of flesh, bone and blood.

As the sun was setting, I went to check on Faramir, Lady Eowyn and the perian whose name I learned was Meriadoc. They were as I had seen them before. Ioreth was tending them. 
�How do they go on, Mistress Ioreth.� I whispered.

�No change.� She said as she wiped Faramir�s brow. I gathered the dirty rags and poured fresh water in the bowl. Ioreth sighed and said, �Alas! if he should die. Would that there be kings in Gondor, as there were once upon a time, they say! For it is said in old lore, The hands of the king are the hands of a healer. And so the rightful king could ever be known.� 

�Men may long remember your words, Ioreth! For there is hope in them. Maybe a king has indeed returned to Gondor; or have you not heard the strange tidings that have come to the City?� a voice replied. I looked up startled to see Mithrandir.

�I have been too busy with this and that to heed all the crying and shouting.� She answered. �All I hope is that those murdering devils do not come to this house and trouble the sick.� she replied. But Mithrandir had already left. 

Bergil, Beregond�s son, had brought us news as he ran errands. I had heard his somewhat muddled account of what was going on but had paid little heed. I went got up and went to look in on my brother. He was pale and his breathing labored. I was a healer and I was watching my brother die. 

�Elred. I wish you could have seen it. I will never forget the sight. Our people led by the King. They came. It was � Well, you can be sure there will be songs. Father was with them. Uncle L�od, he was here. He said that Father rode like one of them. It was magnificent.� Tears unbidden, dripped down my cheeks. I felt a hand on my shoulder. I looked up and saw the concerned face of Dior. He was filthy; his cloak torn and dark blood was spattered all over his shirt. He knelt down next to me and pulled me into his arms. A feeling of safety and comfort came over me.

�I was careful. I only got a few cuts and bruises.� he said softly. I laughed in spite of myself. I pulled away and took a good look at him. He looked like he hadn�t had much sleep and there was sadness in his eyes.

�Your father?� I asked warily, fearing the worst.
�He lives. He has several wounds but Master Ciren says that they are not fatal.� I sighed in relief. 

�He is no better?� he asked pointing at Elred. I shook my head.

�I saw them bring in King Theoden and a woman of his house, I guess. I am sorry for your loss.�

�Thank you, Dior. But the lady lives still. She is Eowyn, the king�s niece. No one is sure how she came to be here but she fought the Captain of the Nazgul. Her and a perian killed him.� I told him. He looked astonished. 

�But they are suffering from the Shadow just as Elred is. We have no cure for that.� I finished quietly.

�Come. I�m sure you have not eaten or stepped out of this place today.� He stood up and put out his hand. I put my hand in his and he pulled me up. He found some bread, dried fruit and a small jug of water. We went out to the wall and I looked out on the field. In the fading light, there were dark piles that I knew were the bodies of men and beasts. The smell of rotting flesh mingled with the earthy dampness. I wondered where my father was among those piles. As I scanned the horizon, I saw the tents of the Rohirrim, and the other peoples who had come to fight and die on the Pelennor. The flag of Dol Amroth flew over the Citadel. 

�We prevailed in the end. The Southrons fight to the death.� said Dior as he chewed on his bread.

�Do they? While I am glad that we have carried the day, the cost of this victory has been steep. There are more widows and orphans now. I fear there will be as much weeping as there is rejoicing over this victory.� Dior merely nodded.

�Mistress Eolind�.� I heard Bergil�s desperate voice. I turned around to face the breathless boy.

�What is it, Bergil?� I asked as the boy tried to catch his breath.

�The Herbmaster told me to find you. They need some atha� athelas.� A tremor went through me.

�Who needs the athelas?�

�Mithrandir. The Herbmaster thought you might know where some was seeing as how you helped stock the herb supplies.�

I was shocked to the core. �Come, Bergil.� I said taking the boy�s hand. We hurried toward the storeroom. Dior followed. I walked in and went to the shelf where I had placed the small packet 2 weeks ago. I pulled it out. A wave of disappointment went through me as I saw that the packet had been opened. But I opened it up completely and there on the cloth were several leaves left. I re-wrapped them and handed them to Bergil. �Here is what is left from some I harvested two weeks ago. Go!� 

�What was that all about?� he asked.

�I don�t know but I intend to find out.� I followed the way Bergil had gone. I heard some commotion coming from the rooms where Faramir, Eowyn and Meriadoc lay. I quietly went and stood next Ioreth near the door. Dior stood silently behind me.

I saw a stranger kneeling by Faramir. He had dark hair and a grey cloak lay on his shoulders. He called Faramir�s name. He bruised the athelas and a sweet fragrance filled the air. He put the leaves in a bowl of steaming water and held it to Faramir�s face. 
�Well now! Who would have believed it? Ioreth said to me. �The weed is better than I thought. It reminds me of the roses of Imloth Melui when I was a lass, no king could ask for better.� 

Suddenly Faramir�s eyes opened and he spoke softly to the man kneeling beside him. I was shocked beyond reason. Faramir was alive! Somehow, Dior�s hand found it�s way into mine. I squeezed it tightly. The man replied �Walk no more in the shadows but awake! You are weary. Rest a while, and take food, and be ready when I return.�

�I will, lord. For who would lie idle when the king has returned?�

�Farewell then for awhile!� the man said in reply. �I must go to others who need me.� 

Dior and I stood aside as the man turned went out the door with Mithrandir and the others. I caught a glimpse of a dark haired man, disheveled from battle with eyes that shone with keen intelligence. I heard Ioreth exclaim, �King! Did you hear that? The hands of a healer, I said.� A small ember of hope glowed in my heart. Dior squeezed my hand once again before letting it go. 

I follow the group as they entered the Lady �owyn�s room. The Third Marshall, �omer was at her bedside. Again, I only stood in the doorway, mesmerized by the scene. I could not hear what the king and the others said to each other. I felt the air freshen as the athelas was placed in the water. Then the king left her side and stepped out. Lord Eomer called to her. �Eowyn, Eowyn!� She opened her eyes. I heard her say, �Eomer! What joy is this? For they said you were slain. Nay, but that was only the dark voices in my dream. How long have I been dreaming?� 

�Not long, my sister,� he replied. �But think no more of it.� Not wishing to disturb anyone, I left the doorway and saw as the group proceeded to Meriadoc�s room. I dared again to stand and watch from the door. The king called him and bruised more athelas. The halfling woke up and the air was full of the scent of growing things. I quietly stepped out of the doorway into the hall. I leaned against the wall trying to absorb what I had seen. Dior stood next to me.

�Perhaps, there is hope for Elred after all.� he suggested.

�Maybe but I would not dare impose on the king. I�m sure there are others that need him more than Elred does. But at least, Faramir, Eowyn and Meriadoc are better. All has not been lost. But I should be going to see other patients.� I said briskly. He merely nodded and kissed my hand. �Don�t give up so easily, Eolind�. Have hope. The king has returned,� he said with a smile.

A few hours later, I returned to Elred�s side. He was grey and I silently raged at my helplessness. I must have fallen asleep because the next thing I felt was someone shaking my shoulder.

�Eolind�, wake up.� A familiar voice echoed in my ear. My blurry eyes saw Dior�s face next to mine.

�What?� I asked trying to focus.

�He�s here!�

�Who?� I asked as I struggled to wake up.

�I am Aragorn, my lady.� A tall man beside Dior said. �I understand your brother is under the influence of the Black Shadow after riding out with Lord Faramir. I am told by your young friend here that it was you who harvested the athelas used to help the Lord Faramir, Lady Eowyn, and perian Merry.�

It was the same man I had seen before. The one they called king. He looked weary to the bone. He wore a green stone that seemed to glow with an inner light. With him, stood two other tall figures. In the flickering light, their appearance was very fair. 

�Yes, my lord. I had read that it had healing properties. I was pleased to find it. I had no idea that it was so powerful.� I blushed and stammered, grateful for the dim light.
�In the right hands, it is.� he replied. �This is Elladan and Elrohir, the sons of Lord Elrond of Rivendell. How long has your brother been like this?� he asked kindly.

�Almost three days, my lord. He rode in the company that went to Osgiliath.� I looked away fearing to hear that it was too late.

�It is well then that I brought Elladan and Elrohir with me. What is his name?�

�Elred. He is my twin.� I replied with a catch in my voice.

Aragorn motioned for the other two with him to move to the head and the foot of the bed. As they moved into the light, I noticed their pointed ears. Elves! I was stunned. Elves here. I had thought them strange and remote creatures that had no interest in men or their doings. Aragorn knelt by Elred and laid his hands on Elred�s head. I knelt on the other side holding his hand. He spoke Rohirric in a low voice. �Elred, son of Rohan, leave the darkness behind and return.� A light that had no source seemed to come from the elves. It enveloped Elred as Aragorn called to him in Rohirric. �One who shares your heart is here. Return to her. Return to the ones who love you.� Stride�s voice grew faint for a time and then strengthened. Elred�s skin seemed to grow less pale and his hand grew warm. My heart filled with an unlooked for hope. The light around him grew stronger. Aragorn touched my arm. �Call him, lady. He will know your voice.�

�Elred!�

Elred stirred and coughed. He opened his eyes slowly and looked towards me. �Eolind�? He squeezed my hand. �I heard you. I wanted to answer but it was so dark and the voices told me��

Tears streaming down my face, �Shh, brother. I am right here with you.� Elred smiled and closed his eyes. The light from the elves faded. A peaceful sleep came over him, his face pink and his limbs warm.

�My lords,� I looked at the three men around Elred�s bed, �Thank you. There are not words enough to thank you.�

�Lady Eolind�, it was your strong bond to your brother that kept him here. Those who share the womb together are bound together in ways only the Valar know. It was those ties that helped bring him back.� said one of the elves in melodious voice. �My brother and I are twins also. We were happy to help reunite you with yours.� I could only looked in speechless wonder.

�Let him sleep as long as he wants to and let him get up for a few hours at a time. It will take time but he will recover.� And as if blending into the shadows, the man and the two elves left. Dior was left standing by the wall. I stood up and flung myself into his arms.

�Dior, you had hope where I had none. Thank you for interceding on Elred�s and my behalf.�

�I did it for you, Eolind�.� his eyes dark. �It hurt me to see you in so much pain. Especially when you have given so much to others.�

I stepped back. �You dared to ask the king to heal my brother for me?�

�I would do anything in my power to see you smiling and happy, Eolind�.� he said quietly. His words sent a shiver down my spine. I stepped out of his embrace. 

�Thank you Dior. Any debt you feel you owe me has been paid in full.� He opened his mouth to reply then closed it. �Sleep well, meleth n�n.� He said taking my hands and kissing them. �You too, my friend.� Then I joined Elred in a dreamless sleep.


Chapter 22 - Thank you for being a friend

This chapter involves a crossover with Novedhelion's Trust to Hope.  I am grateful that I could be a part of such a great story.  Thank you, Nove!

*****

I awoke with a start.  I had fallen asleep next to Eored.  He was still sleeping but his breath was strong and even.  I touched his hand and did not feel the bone-chilling cold that had been there before.  I took the black and silver cloak that had been tucked around me.  It was Dior�s.  I shook my head.  He seemed to think my wool forest cloak inadequate.  I carefully folded it and laid it near Eored�s bed, then went to find water to splash on my face.  Ioreth passed me in the hallway.  �Good, you�re awake.  You�re wanted in the halls.� She pointed toward the large hall in front of me.  It was one of a series of interconnecting large rooms and they were all full of wounded.  I sighed.  

Ioreth looked at me sharply.  �You alright, girl?�

�Yes, Mistress Ioreth.  Just tired.�

�Your brother?�

�He lives.  Lord Aragorn and the elves with him healed him.�

�Praise the Valar!  I knew that man was special.�  Then she took a good look at me.  �You need a bath, girl.�

�As do we all.  But I would settle for a bowl of clean water and a clean tunic.�  I said with a smile.
She led me to a small alcove where a stand was.  On it was a pitcher of water, a bowl and a towel.  �I�ll go try to find a clean tunic or apron for you.�

I splashed the water on my face, trying to clean some of the grime off.  My hair was sticky and tangled.  I pulled it back with a kerchief .  I daydreamed about the bath at my Aunt�s home.  Large, made of marble, and filled to the brim with soapy sweet smelling bubbles. Somehow, a vision of Dior entered the picture.  I was in the tub and he was leaning over to give me a kiss� �Here, this is all I could find.� Ioreth�s voice interrupted my dream.  I blushed.  

�Thank you Mistress Ioreth.� I stammered out as she handed me a clean tunic.  She looked at me but said nothing.  I changed and went to the first room.

In the afternoon, I went to check on the White Lady and the perian.
�My Lady?�  Eowyn looked up.

�You are not one of the old women I usually see. You are �oth�od too.� she quipped.

�Yes, my Lady.  My name is Eolind�.  I am from the Southfold.  My uncle L�od supplies the court with monscinan.�

�Ah, and fine monscinan it is.� she said with a slight smile. �But how did you come to be here?�

�I am a trained healer.  My father is from Minas Tirith, I was visiting here when the battle came. My brother serves under the Lord Faramir.  May I see your arm?�  She nodded.  I carefully looked at the arm and retied the sling.  �You are healing, my Lady.  You should eat,� I said, noting the tray near by.  A bleak look was in her eyes.  

�I don�t feel like eating,� she said as she turned away.  

�Please try anyway.�  

�I said I don�t feel like eating.� she said sharply with an angry look.

�Very well.�  I stood up and turned to leave.  Something inside compelled me to speak.  I turned to face her.
�My Lady.  I must tell you that you inspired me.�  The words tumbled out and I blushed furiously.  �Because of you, my father taught me to fight.  I am able to defend myself and my loved ones if need be.�  She eyed me curiously.  �Learning to fight also gave me the courage to seek my own path, as a healer, which has led me here.�  I finished with a whoosh of breath.

�I did not ask to be admired.� she said coldly.

�Nonetheless, you are and I think I am not the only one who feels this way.�

I turned and left the room as she began to sip on some broth.  I next checked on the perian Merry.  He was sitting up in his bed with Pippin beside him.  He looked up.  

�Well aren�t you a pretty one?� he said with some cheek.  Pippin cuffed him.

�Don�t be silly.  This lady is a healer.  She is the one who had the athelas that helped you.�  

�My apologies, my lady.  I have only seen old women until now.�  I smiled at his cheekiness.

�Apology accepted Master Meriodoc.  I understand that you rode with the King.�  I said as I checked him over.

A frown crossed his sweet face.  �He is dead,� he said flatly.

�But he died with honor and you have honor of your own.  You stood by the Lady Eowyn.  Not many can boast of attacking a Nazgul,� I said. 

He shuddered involuntarily and a shadow crossed his face.  

�Master Merry, you are on the mend.  Go out in the courtyard and get some air,� I said patting his head.  He smiled and Pippin led him away.

I hesitated before going into Faramir�s room.  Would it be presumptuous of me to visit him?  As I struggled with my propriety, Master Cirin walked by.  �Ah, there you are.  The Lord Faramir was asking about you.�

I looked up startled.  �He was asking about me?�

�Yes. Now go on.�

I stepped quietly into the room.  Faramir lay on his bed.  I held my breath. His shoulder was in a sling and he looked pale but that did not detract from his looks.

�My lord?�  I asked quietly.

�Eolind�!� he sat up with a smile.

�My little healer from Rohan.  How are you?�

�I should be asking you that, my lord.�  I said

�Well, I am better as you can see.  What of your brother?�

�He is on the mend.  He fell under the Black Breath as you did.  The Lord Aragorn, with help from some elves, was able to heal him.�

�I am glad. Your brother is a brave man.  He stayed with me to the end and almost paid for it with his life.�  he said quietly.  �Master Cirin tells me you were the one who supplied Lord Aragorn with the athelas.�

�Yes, my lord.  I harvested it while on our foray.�

�I remember.  Tis a good thing I let you come then isn�t it?� he said. 

�The ways of the spirits are mysterious.  But, I must be going.  I have other patients to see.  It is good to see you healthy again.�

�But what of you, Eolind�?  How are you?  The past few days can not have been easy for you,� he said gently.

�I am as well as can be expected when one has little rest or food for 3 days.�  I said in a jesting tone.

�Seeing men die while you are helpless.  That is no laughing matter.�  he said seriously.

�No, my lord.  But if I do not laugh, I will cry.  Besides, there were so many that you didn�t have time to grieve the ones you could not save.�  I replied.

�You are wise beyond your years, Eolind�.  But do not forget to grieve. It can be healing in it�s own way.� he said gently.

I looked at him curiously and then remembered that my king was dead. 

�Speaking of grief, I must go pay my respects to my king.  He lies your great hall.�

�I have heard.  I am sorry for Rohan�s loss.� he said quietly.  

�Rest well, my lord.�

�You too Eolind�.�

I told Annith where I was going.  She murmured some words of sympathy.  I gathered my cloak and belted on my sword. After a few wrong turns and many questions, I was able to find my way to the great hall where my king lay. He had been laid on the dais, his body covered with a cloth of gold.  His sword lay unsheathed upon the covering and his shield at his feet.  I made my way towards him and kneeling before the king, I began to sing quietly.  It was an old tune but a familiar one.  Words of praise for the heroic deeds of my king who fulfilled his oath and died with honor.

I bowed again and stood.  I finished by saying, �Hlaford ac Cyningm�n, restest n� arlice freod binnan se hus f�ders eower.�  Then I turned and was surprised to see the young woman I had seen earlier standing by the door.

She smiled at me with a nod of recognition. �Who are you?� I asked her.  �I saw you in the Houses earlier.�

�I am Anhu�l,� she answered.

I looked her over.  She was not dark like most of the Gondorians I knew. �You are not of the �oth�od,� I observed.

She smiled.  �No, I am not.  Dol Amroth is my home.�

��olind�, I am called, daughter of Telmenir of the Southfold.  Do you come to pay respects to our king?� I asked.  I was curious about this woman from the sea coast.  Most people from the south looked down on the Eotheod.

�Yes, I do.�  She walked slowly to the dais, kneeling before the king.  �Tego le i Melian le na mar,� she said softly, before rising to her feet.  The lilt in her voice was strange one.  I had not heard it before.  Her words sounded elvish but she spoke so softly that I could not tell. She turned to me and said.  �I am not familiar with the customs of Rohan in such matters.  I apologize for my ignorance.�

�Do not apologize, my friend,�  I responded.  �I am equally ignorant of the customs of Gondor.  And of the language.�

She smiled at me while we walked slowly toward the arched doorway.  �It seems we could learn much from each other, Eolind�,� the princess stated as the guards creaked open the heavy doors to allow the women passage.  �You are a healer?  You are very young.�

�Yes,� I answered.  �My family would have much preferred I choose another path, but this is the one my feet are upon and I will not falter.  What about you?�

�I am no healer,� Anhuil admitted.  �I was trying to help where I could.  I fear I did little but fold bandages and hold hands.�

�Touching the dying is often as important as saving lives,� I said flatly.  �It is not always something we healers can do, as our focus is upon the living.  Do not discount the gift that the small comfort of a hand to hold is to a dying man.�

�You are wise beyond your years, Eolind�,� Anhu�l commented.  

I laughed softly, remembering Faramir�s words to me earlier.  �Only of some things.� I replied.

We walked in silence for a moment.  �Eolind�, did you ever meet your king, or any of his kin?�

Halting my steps, I looked at her, startled by the question.  �I have visited Edoras a few times.�  I replied slowly. �I was there when my brother swore his oath as a knight of the Mark, and my uncle supplies monscinan to Edoras.�

�Monscinan?�

�I believe your word for it is silith.�  I answered with a smile

She giggled slightly.  �Silith?  The appeal is universal, I see.� 

I continued.  �I never met king�s kin, although the Lady �owyn did inspire me to learn to fight.�  Her eyes flickered to the sword that hung at my side.  �But I am a healer at heart, and I will only fight if necessary.�  I walked slowly to the edge of the bridge before the Citadel, stopped and leaned on the stone rail.  I paused, taking a deep breath. Maybe she knows something about men.  I thought, �I should ask her.  It can�t hurt.�  �Anhu�l, this may sound a trifle silly, but I have no sister and no other women close to my age with which to speak.  May I ask you a question?� 

�Certainly you may ask,� she answered, �and I will try to answer.�

�What do you know of love?� I blurted out. 

Anhu�l seemed a bit taken aback at my question.  While trying to formulate her response, I continued quickly.  �I thought I was in love with someone, but he did not return my affections.�

�That is sometimes the way of it,� she said sadly.

�But there is another.  Someone close to me.  A friend.  I think he may have feelings for me.�  I looked away and stared off into the distance, across the Pelennor.  

�You think?  Has he kissed you?� she grinned mischievously.

I felt the heat rise in my face as I answered shyly.  �Yes.�

�And?� 

�It made me feel...tingly and safe, at the same time.  But I am afraid.�  I turned to face her.

�Afraid of what?� 

�I do not know,� I answered.  �My father fell fighting with the Rohirrim.  My twin brother rode with Faramir to Osgiliath, and was grievously wounded.  I have lost so many friends, both Rohirrim and Gondorian.  Men I cared for, men I sparred with.  I was in the House of Healing, treating the wounded.  I have closed the eyes of many to this life.  I have seen more death in the past few days than in all my life before.  I am afraid to feel, lest I lose another I care for.� I said quickly.

She seemed to think for a minute and answered carefully, �Eolind�, I am no expert on love.  But I fail to see how being in love with one�s best friend could ever be a mistake.  Who better to spend your life with than someone with whom you already have common ground?  You cannot let the death of others rob you of your own life, healer or no.  I, too, was in the Houses, and held the hands of many of the dying.  You cannot allow your fear of the future to rule your present, Eolind�.  Do not shun happiness in favor of complacency.  If love be not reason enough to take a risk, than what is?  Do you love him?�

�I do not know,� I answered honestly.  �I fear I might.  How do I know?�

Anhu�l�s lips curved into a knowing smile.  �You will know, Eolind�.  When he is the first thing you think of when your eyes open and the last thing you think of before they close, when you find yourself thinking of him at odd times during the day, or you see something and think to yourself that he would have liked to see that, or when you have a bit of good news and the first person you want to tell is him...you will know.�

�It all seems like such nonsense, when I think about it.  I mean, how can I be in love with a man I have known my whole life?�

�Think not with this,� she said, tapping my forehead.  �Think with this.�  She lightly tapped my chest.  �Do not try to make sense of love, Eolind�.  It will defy you at every turn.�

I chuckled at this statement. �You sound as if you speak from experience, Anhu�l.� I said.

�Let us just say that you should count yourself fortunate to make this decision for yourself.� she said with a sad smile.

I was puzzled by her answer and wanted to ask what she meant. But the look on her face told me that it was a sensitive subject so I held my tongue.

�Eolind�!  I have searched everwhere for you!�  A familiar voice called out, loping up to where we stood.

�Dior!�  I said in surprise. 

He bowed politely Anhuil.  �Begging your pardon, miss, but Eolind� is needed in the Houses.�  He turned back to me.  �Your brother is awake, and he is asking for you.�

�Awake?  Elred is awake?  Herigean Bema!�  I turned to Anhu�l.  �I must go.�

�Of course,� she agreed.  �I was headed there myself to check on a few patients.  We can go together.�

�Come on, Eolind�!  He is most anxious to see you.�  Dior took my hand and began pulling me down the street. After seeing Elred, who complained of beign hungry, I went hunting for my new friend.

�Anhuil!� I called as I spotted her in the hallway.

Turning sharply at the sound of her name, she faced me. 

�I wanted to thank you, Anhuil. You have given me much to think about.� I said.

�You are welcome, Eolind�. I do hope soon our paths will cross again.�

�You will be at the Houses, will you not?� I asked. 

Anhuil shook her head. �I am sorry, Eolind�, but I have been called home to Dol Amroth. I will be leaving on the morrow, at first light.�

�That is sad news. I had so hoped we could become friends.�

�I believe we have,� she answered with a smile. 

�I wish I could repay you for the kind words,� I said.

Anhuil thought for a moment. �Tell me something, Eolind�. How do you say �I love you� in Rohirric?�

�Ic freonde ge. Why?� I asked curiously.

�I was curious. I love languages,� she answered innocently.

�Would that you were going to be here longer, I could teach you much,� I told her.

�I will have to take you up on that on my next visit, Healer,� she teased. �Take care of your twin. And your soldier.� I blushed at her mention of Dior.

�Wes �u h�l, Anhuil,� I said as I held out my hands. �Be thou well.� I translated.

�Namari�, mellonmin,� she answered, grasping my hands in her own. �Farewell, my friend.� she translated.  And at that we parted.


Chapter 23 - The candle that burns at both ends

In the evening, I ate a small meal in the herb room.  It was one of the few rooms that did not have wounded in it.  As I ate, my thoughts turned to the white lady.  She seemed so hopeless, so listless.  I was at a loss as to her malady.  Her arm was mending.  She seemed to take no other hurt.  The bleakness in her eyes worried me.  

�Dare I hope you are thinking of me?� a familiar voice entered my ear.  I turned to see Dior.  He had a clean tunic on and his sword hung by his side.  

�Oh, Dior, I fear you are to be disappointed.  I was thinking about the Lady Eowyn.�
�She is not still ill is she?�

�No. At least not in body.  Her heart though.  She has no spirit.�  

�How are your other patients?� he asked.

�There are so many.  Most are getting better, but some have passed from this life.  Where have you been?�  he looked pained.

�I have been burying the dead on the field.�  he said flatly.

�Oh, Dior. What a sad duty.�

�But one that must be done.  So many brave men died on that field.  No monument can really honor them as they should be honored.  I have something for you,� he said with sadness in his eyes.  He handed me a small bag.  

I opened it and found a signet ring, a plain silver band and name stone with his name and home scratched on it.  I didn�t need the stone to know who the dead man was.  The signet ring had a Falcon with seven stars surrounding it.  Tears began to well in my eyes.  It was my father�s ring.  The plain silver band was his wedding ring.

�So Uncle L�od was right.  He is dead.�  I looked up again at Dior.  �How did you come by this?  There are thousands of men on the field.�

�Your uncle L�od.  I was helping bury the Rohirrim.  He was there gathering the name stones.  He asked if I knew where the Houses were and that his niece was a healer there.  That I should give this to you.  He said it wouldn�t be hard to find you.  �She�s Eothoed.  She is also the only young and pretty woman in the place.�  In spite of my grief, I chuckled softly. 

 �My uncle L�od is not one to mince words.�  

We looked into each other�s eyes.  Grief and pain mirrored.  Dior crossed the narrow space between us, at next to me and put his arms around me.  My eyes blurred with tears.

We heard someone clear his or her throat behind us and jumped apart.   
 
Silmair� stood in the doorway.  �Pardon the intrusion.  But Master Cirin has need of Mistress Eolind�.� She said with a blush. I snapped to attention at her words.  Thoughts of my father were tucked away and I quieted my heart.  Dior looked at me with concern. 
�I must go.  There will be time for grieving later,� I said evenly.  He nodded silently.  I tucked my father�s rings in the small bag that hung at my waist.

When I arrived at the room, Master Cirin was preparing his instruments and another assistant was stoking a fire.  His shoulders shagged. �Master Cirin, I was told you needed me?�  He looked up.  His face was streaked with grime and there were dark shadows under his eyes.  He had a look of sadness mixed with resignation.  On the bed was a young soldier wearing the livery of Dol Amroth.  His right lower leg was wrapped in bloody bandages. 

 �His leg was crushed.  I need to remove it and I need you to assist.�  

I blanched. �Sir? I�m not sure�� he cut me off.

�I need you to hand me my instruments, hold his leg steady,� he said sharply.  I inhaled deeply and took my place opposite him.  The bandages were soaked with blood and fluid. The stench of the old meat filled my nostrils.  The assistant, Beor, put his knee on the young man�s chest to hold him down.  A gag had been tied around the soldier�s chest and a cup of what I knew to be poppy juice was on the table.  Master Cirin held a small saw over the fire.  He came over to the bed and motioned me to hold the leg steady and began sawing just below the man�s knee.  I looked away and tried to focus my attention on the bandaged leg in front of me.  The teeth of the saw bit into bone and I winced.  The soldier jerked a few times.  I glanced at him briefly.  Tears creeped from the corners of his eyes. Then he went slack.  

�Now, Eolind�, quickly, hand me the poker.� I grabbed the poker, It had a flat piece on the end and it was red hot.  I watched in horrified fascination as he set it against the stump.  The sickly acrid smell of seared flesh now filled the room.  I could feel bile creep up the back of my throat and I swallowed hard.

 �Now the bandages.�  I handed him some clean linen wraps, which he wound around the burnt flesh.  Beor put the limb near the door to be taken away. It would go to a field for burying with the thousands of other body parts that had come off in the past three days.

Master Cirin washed his hands in a basin and then I took my turn.  As I was drying my hands, he put his arm around my shoulders.  

�Will he live?� I asked weakly.

�If the stump does not get infected and he hasn�t lost too much blood, he has a chance.� he replied grimly.  �You did well, Mistress Eolind�.  Not many men could do what you did.  You will be a master healer before long.� 

�Thank you sir. If you have no further need of me, may I go?�

�Yes, of course.  Try to get some rest.�

�You do the same Master Cirin.�  And I stepped out. 

I staggered to a bench outside.  A few stars peaked through the gloom.  Suddenly, I was leaning over, retching the minimal contents of my stomach.  I wiped my mouth with a grimy handkerchief.  My body ached with fatigue.  I knew I should get up and try to find a bedroll.  But, moving seemed to require too much effort.  My hand brushed the bag the held my father�s rings and stone. Tears began rolling down my cheeks. Then came the flood.  I felt as though a wild animal was tearing its way out of my chest. I could scarcely breath from the pain.  I was heartsick, worn, and filthy.  The horror of the past few days rose up. My world disappeared in a fog of heavy blackness that enveloped me. My tears seemed endless.  

Time passed though how much I did not know. Dimly, I heard a voice.  A quiet male voice speaking strange words in soft tones.  His arm went around me and he smelled of leather.  

�Faeder?� I said.

�No, menlith min.� he answered softly.  

He picked me up and carried me.  I was barely aware of my surroundings but I tried to protest. �Shh� was all he said. Then, a female voice spoke.  �Oh my!  The poor child, bring her in.�  I laid down on something soft. A gentle kiss brushed my cheeks. �Sleep well menlith min.�  And I fell into a deep sleep.


Chapter 24 - The day after the long night

I came to suddenly, I was sure I was late for something.  I looked around wildly as I heard someone chuckling softly.  It was Merith.  �What time is it?� I asked in a panicked voice.  

�I�d say tis near supper time.� she said as she continued to stitch on a skirt.

�Supper time?!�  I exclaimed.

�Yes.� she replied somewhat bemused at my disorientation.

�The last thing I remember was sitting on a bench near the Houses.  It was night.� I said slowly.  �How long have I been asleep?�

�Only a day.� she reassured me.  �You were nigh insensible when that young man brought you.� 

�What young man?� 

�I believe it was that soldier of yours.  He�s been here before. Dior?  I think that�s his name.� 

I was quite confused by this point.  �But how and why?�

�I do not know.  Ioreth sent for me to sit with you this afternoon. Said you had become ill.�

�But how did he know where to find me?� I asked myself.

�My clothes?� I asked.

�What can be saved is being washed.  I do believe you could use a good wash yourself.�  she said.  As she spoke, I became aware of my sticky skin and stiff hair.  I also smelled worse than some barns I had been in.

�I certainly could!� I agreed.

I soon found myself soaking in a hip bath.  I scrubbed until my skin was red and my hair squeaked.  I changed into a clean dress and felt better.  Then my stomach rumbled. It had been an age since I had last eaten.  Silmari� fetched me and I was escorted to Ioreth�s chamber.  She bade me enter.  The small table was covered with food, which I attacked.  After I had finished, she spoke.

�How are you feeling?� she asked gently.

�Better mistress Ioreth.�

�You pushed yourself too hard, my child.� she said quietly.

�I know.� I admitted. �It seems like madness now.�

�Well, you aren�t the first person to lose themselves in their work to ignore the grief and horror around them.  Though, I do take some of the blame.  I should have watched you more closely.� 

�But I am used to hard work.� I protested.  �The harvest, foaling wait for no one.�

�That is not the same.  And I dare say, you eat better during those times than you did the last few days.� she replied.  �You had these in your hand when the boy brought you.� She handed me the rings and the name stone.  �I know what they mean.  I am sorry for your loss.�  A look of sad sympathy crossed her face.

Tears threatened as I closed my hand around them.  �How is Elred, my brother?� I asked. 

�He is on the mend according to Silmari�.�

�I should go see him.  He�s probably worried that I haven�t come to visit him today.�

�Yes, you should.  But do not stay long, you still need your rest too.� she admonished.

I thanked her, grabbed my cloak and made my way to the Houses.  The evening air was cool but not as foul as it had been.  A few stars peeked out.  As I came up to Elred�s bed, I found Dior sitting by him describing part of the battle.  Both of them looked up at my approach.

�Ah Eolind�.� he smiled in greeting.

��Lind�!� cried Elred reaching for my hand.  �Tis good to see you!�  He still looked pale and had shadows under his eyes.  

�Well, I�ll be off then.  Musn�t interfere with a sibling reunion.� Dior said lightly.

�Before you go,� I said.  �I want to thank you for finding me last night.�

He hesitated and then said, �You are most welcome.  After all, someone needs to keep an eye on you until your brother can.� he said with a warm smile.  Elred looked at me curiously.

�What happened?  What did I miss?� he demanded.

�Nothing you need worry about, brother dear.�   He hurrumphed. Dior made a slight bow and said, �Your servant, Elred, Eolind�.�  With that, he was gone.

Elred turned to me.  �Dior told me about the charge.  Do you think father was them?� he asked eagerly. His eyes bright with excitement.  I took a deep breath and replied, �He was and so was Uncle Leod.�  My throat closed up and all I could do was place the rings and stone into his hands.  A shadow crossed his face.

�He is gone?� his voice constricted.  I nodded.  �Uncle Leod sent those to me.�  Tears dripped down my face and I had to look away from the grief I saw in his face.  He reached up and hugged me.  He let go and then put on our father�s falcon ring.  

�I am the man of our house now.� he said quietly.

�Well, don�t let it go to your head.� I said with a chuckle.  �I am still older than you are.�  I remarked.  Elred did not smile or answer back to this old argument of ours.  I had been born first. At that moment, I sensed a change in Elred.  A distance that I had never felt before.   

�This fight with the Enemy is not over, Eolind�.  he said in a serious voice.  �The Dark Lord has more forces behind the Black Gates.  There is going to be more fighting�

I was startled.  I had naively thought that the fighting was done and all that was left was to pick up the pieces.  I sagged at the thought of more wounded, more dead.

�There is something afoot that the Captains of the West know about.  There is a way to defeat Sauron forever, they say.  Dior said his father had been told but would not tell more except that what remains of our fighting forces will be marching to Mordor in a day or two.�

My heart darkened.  �You�re not going try to go too, are you?� I asked in a strangled voice.  

�No I am too weak according to the healers.  But I can still ride and deliver messages.� he replied.

�But Beleg�� I trailed off.  �You want to use Halan.�    

�He is a war horse, �lind�.  He needs to be ridden.�

�I know!� I snapped. �Elred, I don�t think you are strong enough to ride, even Halan.�

�I can try!  I can�t just lay here useless� he yelled, waking some of the other patients in his ward. 

�Not useless, Elred my friend.�  I jumped when I saw who it was that spoke.  It was Faramir.  �Captain.� we both said somewhat sheepishly.

He stood across from me, his arm still in a sling. �Elred, I am in the keeping of the Warden myself.  Would not be better to let yourself heal?  I will need good men to be a last defense if things go ill.�  Elred nodded in understanding.  

�Yes, sir.� he said slowly.  Faramir smiled and my heart melted as it always did at his smile.  He nodded and walked to another bed.

�I�m sorry I yelled.� he said quietly

�I am sorry too.  I should let you rest.� I said briskly.

�I suppose.� he replied.  I hugged him and kissed his cheek.  �I am so happy that you are alive.� I whispered.  He hugged me back and I left him.  I was still troubled by the shadow that seemed to lay between us, however.

When I returned to the House, a note was waiting for me.  It had Dior�s family seal.  

�Eolind�, I would like to see you tomorrow morning.  I have something to tell you.  Meet me at the stables at dawn. Your servant, Dior.�  I was puzzled as I lay down to sleep.  

�What could he possibly have to tell me?�





The sunlight trickled through my narrow window.  I awoke, pulled on some clothes and grabbed my cloak.  I looked around.  Only a few of the women seemed to be stirring.  I quietly made my way through the kitchen.  Ivorwen was stoking the fire, her back to the door.  I tried to slip past her.

�Now just where are you going, miss?� she asked.

�Um, I was going to check on my horse.  I haven�t seen him in several days.  I don�t even know if someone has looked after him.�  I trailed off, though it was the truth, partially.

�I see.� she said with a twinkle in her eyes.  �And it wouldn�t have anything to do with the note that was delivered by a servant in the livery of the house of Eldacar would it?�

I was caught.  �And how did you know about that?� I said.

�I have eyes and ears, child.� she replied with humor.

I blushed.  �It�s not really proper is it?�

�Propriety is overrated, especially these days.� she said.  �Just don�t stay overlong and come back in by this door.  I was young once too.� she said with a smile and she shooed me out.

Dior was pacing by Halan�s stall.  His face seemed to light up when he saw me.  �Thank you for meeting me.  Was it hard to get away?� he asked.

�I had a little help from Ivorwen.� I smiled.  I saw Halan�s trough had hay and he looked like he had been brushed.  He looked at me and seemed to say, �And where have you been?�  I rubbed his nose.  �I missed you too, you brat.  But who has been taking care of you?  They have done a pretty good job.�

�I did.� Dior said quietly.  

�You did?�  I asked surprised.

�I knew you couldn�t get here.  Halan and I became friends while I was a messenger.  And though I can never do as good a job as you, he seemed to be agreeable to it.�  he replied patting Halan�s neck.  Halan whinned and shook his head.  I shook my head in amazement.

�You said in your note you had something to tell me?� 

�Ah yes, well did Elred say anything about our forces marching on the Black Gates?�

�He mentioned it, yes.  It sounds foolhardy to me.� I replied.

�The Captains have their reason.  It is my duty to obey.� he said formally.  Then he paused.  �I would ask a boon of you.� he said quickly.

�A boon?� I asked surprised by his request.

�It would help me face the coming battle if I had something of yours to carry with me.� he looked at the ground, his ears turning slightly red.

�You want something of mine to take with you?� I said somewhat stupidly.

�Yes, it would mean much to me.�

I was at a loss.  What could I possibly give him?  And then it came to me.  I reached around my neck and unclasped my necklace.  It was a square piece of beaten silver with a small horse etched on the front, an �E� rune on the back.  I handed it to him.  �This was given to me on my naming day by my mother.  It has never left my neck until now.  Wear it and may good fortune come of it.�

He put it around his neck.  The chain was small on him and we both laughed.  Then he pulled me into an embrace and kissed me fiercely.  After he broke the kiss, he said hoarsely, �I can speak the tongue of the elves, the ancient language of Nummenor and yet I struggle to tell you that I love you Eolind� of Rohan.�  My eyes widened and my breath caught in my chest for a moment.

�You?�

�Shh.� he said laying a finger on my lips. �Do not answer me now.  If I come back, you can tell me if I love in vain.�  

I nodded mutely, too stunned to speak.  He kissed me again and then bade me to go.  

I wandered back to the House in a fog.  �Dior loves me?� I asked myself over and over again.  I entered through the kitchen door.  Ivorwen winked at me and gave me a tray to take out to the dining area.  I helped put the food out but I hardly knew what I was doing.  I pushed the thought away and tried to focus on the talk around me.


Chapter 25 - The Waiting

The waiting begins

After breakfast, I went to work in the Houses.  I redressed wounds, administered tonics and helped where I could.  I also went to see the young soldier from Dol Amroth.  I brought him a tray of food.  He looked asleep, his face pale but he seemed to be breathing easily.  I laid my hand against his forehead and felt no heat.  I sighed in relief. 

I checked the bandage around the stump.  It had been changed.  Clean linen covered it and the smell of lavender and feverfew was in air.  I did not disturb the handiwork but straightened up the covers.  

�Who are you?� Startled, I looked up and saw that he was awake.  His eyes were blue but full of anger and sadness.

�I am Eolindë.  I brought some food for you.�

�I don�t want any!�  A flicker of recognition crossed his face, �I remember you!  You were here when they took off my leg.� he said angrily.  

�Are you sure it was me?� I asked surprised.

�I�m sure.� he replied.  �I was drowsy but I remember your voice.  I heard a woman�s voice, thought it was very strange.� 

I shrugged.  �You should eat.  It will help you get stronger.�

�Why did you let them take my leg?� he cried bitterly.

�I had no say in the matter.  I was doing what I was told.�  I answered evenly.

�They didn�t have to do it!�

�Master Cirin did what he had to do to save your life.�  I replied.

�Better dead with honor than a cripple.� he snarled.

I thought of all the dead that lay on the Field, all the widows and children who didn�t yet know of their loss.  �You can�t see the mound from here.� I remarked.  �A burial mound of the dead.  Gondorian, Éothoéd, your people from Dol Amroth.  One of them was my father.�  I said quietly.

His anger died away, �I am sorry for your loss.� he stammered.  

�Thank you.  You see you still have your heart, your mind.  You can still have a good life.�

�What kind of life can I have as a cripple?�

�I don�t know.  What did you do in Dol Amroth?�  I asked as I placed the tray on his lap.

�I was an apprentice in an apothecary.�  he said.

�Hum.  An apothecary.  I don�t think that losing part of your leg will prevent you from continuing your studies. I am becoming a master healer myself.  I am sure you could teach me quite a bit.� I replied.  

His eyes widened.  �You are a healer?� he asked somewhat incredulously.

�Why does that surprise you?�

He sputtered.  �You are a young woman.  Shouldn�t you be getting married?�  

�I am not like other young women.�

�No.  I guess not.�  he replied and looked at the tray.

�What is your name?� I asked.

�Astaldin.� he replied.

Well Astaldin, I suggest you eat your food before it gets cold.� I said briskly.

He picked up a piece of bread and began to dip into the broth.  I smiled and turned to go.

�Will you come see me again?  I would like to talk with you about herbs.� he pleaded.

 �I will.� I replied and I left him to his meal.

Silmarië noted my visit to Astaldin and gently reminded me that I needed a chaperone if I was doing more than just delivering his food tray.  I blushed and thanked her for her concern.  I convinced Elred to come with me.  

�I need you to protect my reputation.�  I pleaded.  �After all, you are the head of the family.  No one will question my visits if you are there.�

�And why did you need to visit this man?� he asked.

�He is an apprentice apothecary in Dol Amroth.  I am hoping to learn some things from him.�  

Elred rolled his eyes and came along.  

�Astaldin, I have brought some company.�  I said the next time I went to visit him.  When Elred saw the stump, he swallowed hard and tried not to look.  Astaldin was not happy to see him either.

�Who is he?� he asked, annoyed at the interloper.

�This is my twin brother, Elred. I am still a maid and I do need a chaperon when visiting you.�  I replied.

Astaldin frowned but did not seem to mind Elred�s presence after we started talking.  Bored with the conversation, Elred was hard-pressed not to fall asleep.  As we returned to his room, I thanked him for his patience.  He just nodded.

The days passed.  Everyone looked east anxiously.  We tried to keep ourselves occupied.  There were many hours each morning and afternoon, treating the wounded.  Each day there were a few who passed onto the halls of their fathers.  Others healed and grew stronger.  Elred included.  He would go to the stables each day and brush Halan down.  It would take him several hours but he insisted on doing it.  �You don�t have time and it helps me feel useful.�  he said.  I didn�t argue since he accompanied me each evening to see Astaldin.  The shadow that lay between us remained despite my efforts to reach him.  

I went by Lady Éowyn�s room and learned that she had been moved.  I caught a glimpse of her in the garden with Faramir.  There was no mistaking the look in his face as he spoke with her.  

The next day as I was walking down the halls, I heard my name called.  I turned to see who it was.  It was Lady Éowyn.  I curtseyed, �What can I do for you my lady?�  

�Walk with me in the garden.  I would speak with you.� she said in Rohirric.

�As you wish.� I answered and followed her.  As we walked, she asked me about some of the Éothoéd wounded.  I answered her as best I could.  

�What do you think of the Lord Faramir?� she asked suddenly.  I was taken aback at her question.  

�I am not sure what you mean, my Lady.�  I answered.

�What sort of man is he?  He mentioned your name several times.  I would know more.�  

I stammered.  �He spoke of me?�

�Yes.  It seems you made quite an impression on him.�  she said dryly.  Sighing, I told her the story of the foolish wager I made with Elred and the foray with Faramir and his Rangers.  She nodded and smiled when I had finished.  �You had quite the adventure.�

�Yes.  I have no desire to repeat it.  I am done with killing.� I said quietly.  She looked at me oddly.

�My lady, my heart is made for healing not slaying.  I would defend myself and my family at need but I no longer wish to see battle.�  I said simply.  She nodded thoughtfully.  �As for Lord Faramir, he is one of the noblest, wisest, most kind men I have ever known.  My brother has always spoken highly of him.  His men would follow him to death and I know he has touched the hearts of several of the ladies.�

�Including yours?� she teased gently.

�Yes.�  I answered as I blushed.  

�Thank you Eolindë It was good to speak in our native tongue.  You have given me much to think on.�  and she dismissed me.

At night, as I fell asleep, Dior�s face and words would come to me.  I could not decide what to think and fell asleep wondering what my answer would be to him.
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