Mistress of the Fellowship (LOTR)

* 36 * Hard Choices

As she drew away she could feel in the air the fear behind her grow as the men and boys of Rohan watched the enemy approach. She had to have faith they would survive without too great of losses. She had to pray that all those young eyes would see dawn.

Onward she rode at a speedy pace as the cold wind and rain whipped at her but her mare did not falter as she moved on with her head high.

Darkness consumed the land with a cold that was felt in one’s bones and even after she was in her troop’s camp and in front of a roaring fire. Sonora had vanished soon after she and Thayonidas departed. No surprise and no question as to where she went. They were to meet soon for as she stood by the fire trying to thaw her insides she spoke to the leaders of the clans and creatures.

“I leave you all with a choice in these dark times. I don’t need to remind anyone what is happening for of all beings you know best but the choices I lay before you are ones I ask you to choose with your heart.

I am returning to Isenguard to face my fate as are the Ents to avenge their fallen. If you wish to join the fight you may but with the knowing that the travel will be speedy and you will be going into the unknown.

I know of your past experience with the race of men but with this dark army Saruman has created you know as well as I in your heart that the race is needed in this war. A great number are at this time set up to be slaughtered in Helm’s Deep. As much as we believe it is impenetrable I have no doubt that this is to be the time when their walls will crumble. These beasts may be primitive but they have some been given something by the white wizard to bring down the stronghold. I ask you to dig deep in your hearts and if you can find it to fight I for one will know a true hero. Know it is not a fight for men but a fight for Middle Earth, our home.

The last choice I lay before you is that of an open door. You may leave if that is what your heart tells you. You may go with the knowing that you go without shame and live your days with beloved ones away from this war and evil.

The decision is yours. There is not a soul amongst you that has brought dishonor. A new age is upon us. What we chose should be of our own, not of someone with the skill or knowledge of combat. Choose that in which your heart tells you. Family, home, honor, or whatever it is, do it because that is what your heart tells you. Trust your heart this time.”

She looked around the campfire and saw all eyes averted into the flames. She could tell that they were digging deep inside themselves at this time.

“We disperse as first light. It has been an honor to have been in each of your presence and a bid thee prosperity and peace in your lives.”

With that she turned and went to see how her tired mare was holding up. Or rather to collect her thoughts as the horrifying thoughts of what might await her in Isenguard poisoned her restless mind that also dwelled on the eyes and fear she left in Helm’s Deep.