To The End Of Her Days - A Fanfiction Sequel to The Lord of the Rings

Chapter 8 - A World That Is Amiss

The next day at dawn, they set out for Edoras. Eldarion and Legolas had to carry Arwen because of her injury. She was not a burden, for she was not heavy like most hobbits. When she lived in the house of the king, she ate only as much as was customary among men, and she learned not to eat in excess. Then when she lived among her kin, she still only ate three or four meals a day. That was one of the reasons many looked down on her: she embraced the traditions of men and did not live like her kin.

On the third night of their travels, they set up camp. They were very tired from all their fast-paced travel, especially the young hobbits. They sat around the fire that night, discussing the length of their travels.

"How much longer are we going to be doing this?" Faramir asked holding his foot, "The feet of hobbits were not mean to run cross-country!"

Everyone laughed. It was quite true that hobbits were not used to running. It was especially difficult for them because they did not wear shoes and were not used to the rough terrain of the open plains.

"Only four more days, Faramir," Eldarion answered him.

"I know this part of our journey has been long," Legolas consoled them all, "but you must hold out on your strength until we reach Edoras. We must reach Edoras before the storms of winter are upon us."

"I still wish I did not have to be carried," Arwen sighed, "for it is keeping us from traveling properly."

"This is not your fault, Arwen," Eldarion insisted, "This part of our journey was bound to be difficult, with or without your injury."

This was not the first time this has been discussed in the last few days. Eldarion wished Arwen would not blame herself, but he could do nothing to help her see past it.

"All the same, I wish it was not hindering our travels."

Suddenly, out of the darkness, they all heard a great sound off in the distance. The young hobbits were all frightened and huddled together in fear. As it drew nearer, they realized the sound was the whinnying of a horse. When it finally came near the fire, they saw a white stallion of rare beauty.

Legolas realized, "This is none other than Shadowfax, the horse of Gandalf."

Shadowfax instantly attached himself to Arwen, as if he knew Arwen was injured.

"This is strange," commented Eldarion, "I thought Shadowfax responded to no one but Gandalf himself."

Arwen petted the horse's nose. "I'm glad he is here to help us carry our supplies and to carry me. After all, I can be quite a hand full!"

Everyone laughed and she smiled.

~

The next days of travel were much easier, with less to carry and a ride for Arwen. Rosie, Goldie, and Faramir took turns riding with her since there was enough room on Shadowfax for three hobbits. It seemed the great white horse reenergized their spirits. They were all more content in their travels with Arwen in better comfort.