His Queen

Chapter 15 - Kitra

The two weeks dragged by, each day filled with a palpable sense of anticipation and unease. Finally, the announcement was made that they were ready to depart from the safety of Rivendell. Kitra did her best to stay away from Frodo, knowing that the longer she spent in close proximity to the ring, the more vulnerable she became to Sauron's insidious influence. She could feel his malevolent gaze on her at all times, a constant reminder of the danger that lurked within the deceptively simple golden band.

Despite the hurt glances she received from Frodo when she would quickly walk away if he approached her, she knew it was for the fellowship's own good that she stayed distant. Instead, she focused on training Alana and delving deeper into the library's vast archives to uncover any information on her mysterious lineage.

But even amidst their preparations and planning, Kitra couldn't resist stealing every possible moment alone with Aragorn. Both of them understood that once they set foot on this perilous journey, their chances for private moments together would be scarce, so they cherished each one they had in these final days before their departure.

As sunlight filtered through the window, she stirred from her slumber to find Alana already awake and neatly packing what remained of her belongings. The warmth of her robe still clung to her body, a fond smile spreading across her face as she remembered how Aragorn had likely tucked her into bed last night. Their conversation had been so engaging that she couldn't recall drifting off to sleep; only him standing on the balcony with a glass of wine in hand as she sat on the chaise in the open night air.

"How early is it?" She asked as she swung her feet over the edge of the bed.

"Not yet dawn," Alana replied quietly. "We leave at sun up."

With an exasperated sigh, she rose gracefully from her plush velvet chair and gathered up her garments to change behind the privacy screen. The soft fabric of her silk robe slid effortlessly off her body, revealing a canvas of scars that told stories of battles fought and won. In their place, she donned a sleek black high-necked tunic with the sleeves slightly too long, giving it a hint of nonchalance. Her form-fitting leather trousers hugged her figure perfectly, tucked into tall, sturdy brown boots that spoke of both style and practicality. Over this, she layered a dark brown leather coat that cascaded past her knees in a dramatic fashion. The deep V-neckline showcased just enough of her skin, while the tailored fit accentuated her hourglass silhouette. To complete the ensemble, she added an ornate leather corset adorned with multiple buckles at the waist, cinching it perfectly. And finally, she slipped on a pair of black fingerless gloves, seamlessly blending with the extended sleeves of her tunic.

As she emerged from behind the screen, a sharp knock at the door interrupted their silence.

"Enter." She walked over to the chest at the end of the bed. Opening it up she grabbed her sword and dagger. The sword went around her waist and her dagger she placed at her lower back where it would be concealed under her cloak. She looked up to find Aragorn opening the door, clearly ready to leave Rivendell behind. "Good morning."

"Good morning. How'd you sleep?" He asked as he closed the door behind him.

"Quite well actually."

"I'm about to visit my mother before we join the rest of the group. Would you care to join me?" He asked as she slipped her cloak on. She slipped her bow and quiver over her back and readjusted the hood so it sat on top of the strap. She nodded in agreement and told Alana they would meet her there. He took her hand in his and lead her through Rivendell to his mother's grave where they knelt before her.

"She's beautiful." She whispered as she peared up at the statue. He just smiled, looking straight forward and the headstone. She looked down and read the inscription out loud. "Gilraen; Onen i-Estel Edain, ú-chebin estel anim. I gave Hope to the Dúnedain; I have kept no hope for myself."