From Wyoming, to Middle-earth

Chap. 30 - Isengard and Hobbits

After Helms Deep was cleaned up, we went inside the keep to rest up and eat a quick meal before we returned to Edoras.

I went into my room, and collasped onto my bed. My body ached and was sore. My leg's wound was better, but was at risk for infection. I took off my cloak, and weapons and I untied my leather chestplate, and took off my chainmail. My cloak was dirty, and the back was ripped where the orc tried to cut me. I folded it up, and put it next to my bow. My sword was bloody. I took off my boots, and fell onto my bed. I fell asleep instantly, even if it was in the morning. I wasn't sure what time it was, but Aragorn came into my room and woke me up. It must be in the afternoon.

"Alex, wake up," He said gently, and shook my shoulders.

I opened my eyes and looked up at him. His face was covered in blood, like mine. I sat up, and pulled on my boots, and just in case, I got my armor back on, followed by my weapons. I yawned and laid back down. My leg burned. He stood up, and offered me his hand, "Come on, Lady Alex."

I laughed, and I grabbed his hand. He pulled me up, and we were face to face. I looked at his face, and he came closer, and kissed me. On the lips. My eyes widened, not knowing how to kiss. I hadn't kissed anyone but my ex-boyfriend, but that was awhile ago. I had forgotten how. His hands rested on my clammy, and rough face. I felt like I was going to explode with happiness! Except for some reason, I couldn't express my emotions. I stood with my arms hanging down at my sides, surprised.

He pulled away, and looked at my surprised face. He looked away sheepishly, "Sorry. I don't know what came over me. I'm truly sorry."

I blushed, and looked away. I didn't know what to say. But then something inside of me seemed to explode again. I hugged him, and kissed his cheek softly, "It's okay."

I stopped, and heard someone approaching from the hallway. Legolas stood in the doorway.

"Aragorn, we are departing soon. Théoden suggested that we should saddle up. Oh. Forgive me, I should have knocked," Legolas said, and sheepishly backed up.

I laughed, "It's alright Legolas."

I pulled away from Aragorn's hug, and quickly walked to the stables. My sword's sheath was hitting my leg as I walked, and my cloak was flowing. Heh, I wondered if I looked dramatic. Legolas and Aragorn were walking slowly. I quickly glanced out of the corner of my eye at them. Aragorn was blushing, and Legolas was laughing.

I reached the stables, and saw Gimli struggling to mount his horse.

"Gimli, would you like some assistance?" I chuckled, and walked towards the angry dwarf.

"Perhaps. Is the elf coming?" he asked quickly. I looked behind me, "He's coming down the stairs. Quick! I'll help you."

I clasped my hands together, so it formed a step. Gimli quickly stepped onto my hand, and climbed up onto the horse. I ran out of his stall before Legolas came in. Gimli let out a breath, "Phew, thanks lassie."

I laughed, "No problem Gimli."

I saddled up Arroch, and watched as Aragorn brushed Brego, and cooed to him in elvish. He looked up at me, and smiled. I grinned, and mounted Arroch, and rode out to meet the king, and his two guards. Gandalf was sitting upon Shadowfax, and looking out towards the afternoon horizon.

Gimli followed me, and stopped next to Arroch. Aragorn trotted up to us, and stopped. Brego nickered. Legolas came out last, with his white mare we were given from the Riders of Rohan. King Theéoden looked at our group, and rode to the gates, "We ride for Isengard."

Arroch followed, and fell into step with Brego. I looked at the battlefield, where there were the occasional orc body laid, decaying. I saw a stream of the people of Edoras, returning to their home. The silver helmets of the guards glinted in the afternoon sunlight. A light, winter breeze chilled me.