She's Still Breathing
by cjsplace


Summary:  Buffy is Galadriel's daughter. Gandalf took her to the
Valar (Powers that Be) to keep her safe knowing she would return when
she was needed the most. 
Disclaimer:  Buffy belongs to J. Whedon and LoTR is Tolkien's domain.

ANOTE:  I am fusing the story along, skimming over large parts.  In
no way am I a LoTR expert.  I used the book and various websites as
much as possible for accuracy.  But don't throw stones for the parts
I changed because I chose to.  It is my story.  I am not trying to
offend anyone.  

Note2:  I know that owyn is Theodon's niece but I made her his
daughter in my story for a reason. 

Note3: Someone asked, where I came up with the name Ariel for Buffy,
since it wasn't an elvish name.  Looking in the book, I found
Galadriel and Celebron's real daughter's name was Celebrian. This to
me looked like a derivation of Celebron's name.  So, I chose Ariel
because it was an easy name to create from Galadriel. Anyone
interested, Ariel is Hebrew and means 'Lioness of God.' Another
trivia pursuit answer as well is Elizabeth in Hebrew means
'Consecrated to God.'  Rather fitting names for a chosen warrior, I
would say.  


 

Chapter 1

Buffy fell through the portal at an alarming speed.  The light
around her changed from the bright blue to darkest black fading to
white then to a sky blue.  She hit something hard and looked up. 
Buffy saw a face she had seen only in her dreams.  "Gandy."  Her
fingers felt feathers beneath her.  "Going to sleep now."  She passed
out.

Gandalf looked at the small body on the back of the eagle and
smiled. "I was wondering if you were going to show up."  He almost
laughed hearing her name for him; only from her would he allow that.  

She was back the little Imp.  He knew she would come when their need
was the greatest.  

This was not what he expected but it would do.  He turned the great
eagle toward Rivendell and safety, for now.  Gandalf carried the
small body down the halls of Lord Elrond's palace.  

Arwen showed him into a beautiful room.  "Gandalf what happened? 
Who is she?  What injuries are there that I may help?"  The beautiful
dark-haired Elf asked.  

"I will answer all I can.  She is in need of your healing touch
now," he pleaded her.  He laid her gently on the bed and moved out-of-
the-way. 

Standing at the foot of the bed, Gandalf watched Arwen work on
Buffy's bruised pale body.  What happened to her?  Would that she
would awaken and tease me for worrying?  Was l wrong in trusting her
to the Valar?  I know there was no other choice.  We need her for
this battle.  But what did they do to her that she does not awaken,
that she lies still as death, as pale as a ghost does.  She is so
important to the future of the journey to come, to all of Middle
Earth.

Arwen crushed herbs into a cup and placed it to Buffy's lips.  She
eased the healing brew down a sip at a time then massaged Buffy's
throat.  Setting the cup aside, she brushed the long blonde hair from
the small girl's face.  Looking closely, Arwen gasped then looked at
Gandalf; her large blue eyes questioned him.  

He extended his hand to her and they stepped away from the bed. 
Gandalf peered deeply into Arwen's eyes then nodded his head.

"But how is that possible?  This cannot be Mother would have told
me.  What is her name?  How did she come to be here?" 

"Her name is Ariel and she left, Middle Earth, long before your
mother's birth.  Galadriel, never spoke her name again, that I know
of."  

"Where has she been all this time?  She is a human, barely even a
woman."

 "I do not know all the answers. Perhaps we can learn them
together," he sighed.

Buffy started thrashing on the bed.  She moved about as if fighting
some unknown force, tears streamed down her face.  Her opened mouth
made no sound. Buffy screamed in silence.  Her body constantly in
motion then it went still.  

They turned back to her.  Arwen rushed to her; she feared Ariel had
stopped breathing.

Buffy found herself in a dreamscape of her lives.  The time on
Middle Earth as a small child.  Gandy taking her to the Valar; her
life with them. The long endless years on that plane of nowhere but
everywhere. The Valar prepared her for her fate, her destiny.  She
became a human on a different Earth and becoming the Slayer.  Her
sacrifice to save then returning, full circle back to Middle Earth. 
Her childhood dreams of faces, places and people, all fell into place
in her mind.  

The Valar opened her awareness, her consciousness, to her previous
lives here and with them.  Now, they tried to strip away the memories
of her life as Buffy Anne Summers.  No family, friends or memories to
distract her from this her true destiny. 

She screamed shooting up off the bed.  "No I won't let you. You sent
me there and gave me that life.  It is mine and they are my memories
to keep.  Just stop it right now, damn you. Damn you all.  I lived
there, learned love there and I am keeping them."  

Gandalf and Arwen looked at her as if she had lost her wits.  He
rushed over to hold her.  "Ariel, it is all right. You are safe at
home now.  You are back, my little Imp," he murmured. 

"Gandy, why, why did you leave me there?"  Her voice a mere whisper
as she cried.

"I had to, Imp.  For your safety and for everyone here now, who has
need of you?"  

"Who is she, Gandy?"  He grinned.  Always curious his Imp, no matter
what was happening.

"This is Arwen, the daughter of Lord Elrond, our host.  Her mother
was Celebrian, daughter of Galadriel and Celebron.  Celebrian passed
on many years past."  Gandalf explained Arwen history to Buffy while
he watched her face.  

Buffy looked at Arwen closely and saw a likeness to Dawn in her big
blue eyes.  Her high cheekbones and the shape of her face resembled
hers.  The mouth was the only feature she didn't recognize.  Must be
from her father, that and her long dark hair.

"Hello, Arwen, I'm Buffy."  

"Buffy, what name is this?  I have never heard the like, even in
Westron," Arwen asked.  

Buffy laughed at the Elf's puzzled look. Every name had a certain
meaning and there wasn't one for hers. "It is from a land unknown to
you.  It is the name I am comfortable with the most.  No matter what
the Power's tries to do. I am more stubborn than even they realize."
 

"I do not understand?  Who are these Powers, you speak of?"  Arwen
looked at this strange young woman trying to understand all she had
heard. 

"Where I was, the Valar are the Powers That Be or the Powers for
short.  I had a new name and a new life.  My name is Elisabeth Anne
Summers better known as Buffy.  When they sent me back, they decided
remembering that life wasn't necessary. I won't let that happen they
are my memories.  I experienced each and everyone.  I had friends,
family and lovers and I won't forget them.  Do you hear me?  So stop
it right now." Buffy yelled at the ceiling.  

"Can you see them too?"  The dark-haired Elf looked up at the
ceiling; she tried to see what the strange girl yelled at so
passionately. 

"No, but they are always watching. So, they should get the point." 
Shaking a fist at the ceiling for emphasis, she turned back to
Arwen.  

Gandalf laughed, "Imp you have only gotten more stubborn with age." 

Buffy stuck out her tongue at him.  "Now, where were we?  Oh yeah,
even if I am older than you are technically, physically our ages look
closer. So, how about we try being friends?"  She smiled brightly at
her 'niece'.  

"I think I would like that.  I live in a house full of men.  Besides
father, there are my brother's Elladan and Elrohir."  She returned
the little blonde's smile.  Arwen thought with her fine bone
structure and large eyes, she could pass for an Elf, except for her
height and ears.  Elves living near the coast were sometimes golden
skinned like her.  Arwen thought her 'aunt' was beautiful and could
see her grandmother in her.

The weariness quickly returned to Buffy's face and she leaned back
on the bed...  

"We shall leave you to rest, Imp."  Gandalf leaned down to kiss her
head.

 

Chapter 2

The next morning when Gandalf passed Buffy's room, he heard her cry
out.  Rushing in, he found her trying to get out of bed. 

"Gandy, the little one is injured. He needs help.  Get me a horse,"
Buffy ordered.  

"You must not go, Imp.  You are too weak."  

"I am fine.  Now get me a horse."  Her voice held a note of steel. 

Arwen quietly entered the room.  "I will go.  Tell me where and what
has happened."  Arwen's heart clenched when she heard Aragorn's
description. She turned and flew from the room.

Buffy raised an eyebrow at Gandalf. "The ranger you described is her
lover.  He is human but they love each other, very much.  Arwen will
bring back Frodo; do not worry Imp.  Now, would you like to walk
around and see Rivendell? Slowly," he stressed.  

"Yes, I hate being cooped up in bed." 

He laughed as he went out the door.  A maid carried in a beautiful
dress of pale yellow.  She laid it on the bed then asked if Buffy
needed any help in dressing.  She shook her head when noticed a
screen and a large basin with soap with clean cloths.  

A half hour later, Gandalf knocked on the door.  "Come in." 
Stepping into the room, he saw her standing in a shaft of sunlight. 
He caught his breath; she was glowingly beautiful.  He realized, his
little Imp was gone, replaced by this grown woman.  

Buffy twirled in the dress and the elven braids decorating her hair
spun out as well.  "Will I do kind sir?  I would not want to
embarrass you," she giggled, "It is a beautiful dress, isn't it,
Gandy?" 

"Yes child, almost as beautiful as the one wearing it.  You have
become as beautiful as your mother."  His eyes twinkled as he
smiled.  

"Shall we go and check out this place?"  She linked her arm in his
as they left the room.

~~~~~

Rivendell was beautiful and all the sights were awe-inspiring.  They
stopped when they walked by a large imposing room.  Gandalf escorted
Buffy into the room.

"Let me introduce you to Lord Elrond."  

She noticed a tall Elf with long black hair turned from looking out
the balcony. Arwen does have his mouth. 

"Elrond, my friend.  I bring you company."

Lord Elrond was a striking looking man.  Something about him let a
person know he was someone important.  It was in his eyes and the way
he carried himself.  He waved them into the room as he moved over to
join them. 

"Come in, my old friend.  It is good to see you, once again.  I am
only saddened that troubled times are the cause of our meeting.  Who
is your charming companion? She seems familiar to me."  

He looked at Buffy with piercing blue eyes that seemed as if they
could see into her mind.  He waited patiently for Gandalf to provide
the information he sought. She admired his poise.  It was as if he
knew he would learn everything if he only waited.  

"This is Buffy.  She is here to help us fight the coming darkness,"
Gandalf explained.  

Elrond's head turned back to her and his eyes widened.  "She is only
a human, barely more than a child."  

"Right here in the room, ya know." 

"Appearances can be deceiving, you know that better than most,"
Gandalf rebuked.  

"Forgive me, child.  It is just the thought of Arwen having a fate
such as yours.  I could not bare it."

"Your not suppose to bare her fate, she is.  You job is to support
and love her.  If you don't know that, then I misjudged the man you
are."  Buffy turned to leave the room.  

"Please wait child, I apologize.  Come back and let us have peace
between us," Elrond pleaded.  

Buffy came back and sat down looking him direct in the eye.  "Please
don't call me child.  I have to put up with Imp from Gandy, as it
is."  

"Gandy?"  Elrond's eyebrow rose and a comical look crossed his face.

"Erm well, it was her childhood name for me.  The Imp couldn't say
my name properly and shortened it.  Now, I imagine I am stuck with
it, as well." 

"You bet ya.  Not to mention El, I think I am older than you are. 
Aren't I, Gandy?"  Buffy wrinkled her nose as she tried to figure out
her age in Middle Earth, Higher Plane and Earth years.  I don't think
that they make calculators that big anywhere. "Oh well, I guess I
will just start over and use the age my now. Otherwise, it gives me a
headache trying to figure it out.  Cuz, I think I'm even older than
you Gandy."  

"What do you mean, Imp? You make no sense."

"Something about the way time moves differently on the Powers plane,
than here.  I was there a longtime, too long," she sighed.  

He looked away sadly.  "I am sorry, Imp.  There was no other choice.
No other way to save you, so you could save us."

Buffy took his hands in hers.  "I know." 

"Please tell me, what is going on here?  I do not understand,
Gandalf," Elrond demanded.  He looked from his old friend to this
young woman.

"My friend, this must stay among us, for the safety of us all."  

He looked at Buffy and she nodded.  She began to breathe deeply
through her nose and out of her mouth.  The two men watched her, in
fascination, as a golden mist surrounded them. 

She opened her eyes and looked at them.  "No one can hear anything
that we say now.  Gandy, please start the story and I will tell you
both what I can.  What they have allowed me to see of the future." 

Gandalf told of Galadriel seeing her child's importance and him
taking her to the Valar.  Buffy told of her many years of growing up
among the Powers.  She explained about them training her but didn't
provide details.  Them sending her to Earth and becoming a slayer and
the sacrifice, which brought her back to them.

"They sent me back to you, Gandy.  My dreams will lead us through
our quest.  Your little friend is here and close to death." She
quickly stood and ran from the room.  The mist fell away and the two
men followed her.



Chapter 3 
She threw open the door and saw Frodo lying on the bed.  Arwen
hovered nearby. "He is close to crossing over; it may be too late." 
Buffy moved her aside.  "What are you doing?  You will injure him,"
Arwen cried out, trying to go back and help Frodo.  

Gandalf stopped her.  "Do not interfere, Arwen.  There is much at
work here then even I know."

Buffy ripped the clothes from Frodo and found the wound.  Leaning
down she placed a kiss on the gapping hole then laid a hand on it. 
Opening Frodo's mouth, she blew a white mist down his throat.  Her
hands began to glow a bright white; she moved them over his wound. 
Buffy hoped she had remembered everything. The skin knitted together
forming into thin line then disappeared as his natural color
returned.  She opened his eyelid watching the white recede to show
bright blue once more. 

"By what magic is this?"  Arwen had never seen anything like it
before.

Buffy sighed sitting down on the floor.  She pulled the covers up
over Frodo but kept holding his hand.  

The others watched as it appeared she willed him to wake up. 
Frodo's head moved slowly then his eyes opened.  Turning his head, he
saw woman with blonde hair and large hazel eyes.  She held his hand
and brushed back his hair.  

"Are you a fairy?"  He asked in wonder.  

"No, just Buffy.  You were very sick but are going to be fine now.
Go to sleep.  I will be here when you wake up."  Frodo closed his
eyes; there was a smile on his sweet face.

"He will be all right now, Gandy.  He should sleep through the night
and be himself by the morning.  Could someone bring me a chair?  Then
everyone please leave."  Her request was polite, but firm.  

"Buffy, you can't order my father about.  He is the ruler here,"
Arwen scolded.  

"Not in this room, not of me.  Now shoo." She looked at them with
hard eyes.  The warrior in her, the protector looked out at them.  

Elrond and Arwen left but Gandalf stayed. "Don't push me Gandy, go,"
she said in a voice, almost a whisper. 

He felt it down his spine then nodded.  "By the fires of Mordor what
has she become?"

~~~~~

Buffy slept in a chair holding Frodo's hand all night.  They needed
to remain connected to complete the healing. She woke when she felt
him stir then moved to sit on the edge of the bed.  

"Good morning Frodo.  How do you feel?"  Smiling down into the
bluest eyes, she had ever seen.  

"I feel wonderful. Thank you ever so, milady."  

"Buffy, I'm Buffy not Lady anything. We are old friends surely; we
should be on first name basis. After all we spent the night
together."  His face turned a bright red causing her to laugh.  "I'm
just teasing you silly. I watched over you as you slept.  I would
like to be your friend. We are going to need as many as we can find
in the days to come."

"I would be honored to be your friend, Buffy."  Frodo smiled, his
beautiful blue eyes shown bright and happy.  

Just then, the door burst open and a stocky Hobbit with shaggy
blonde hair ran in. "Mister Frodo, sir, are you all right?  Gandalf
said you were. But, I couldn't believe lest I saw with my own eyes. 
Look at you; you are the picture of health, sir.  How did this
miracle happen?"  Sam could hardly believe his eyes.  "Oh my, I'm
sorry, milady.  I didn't see you there.  Allow me to introduce
myself; I'm Samwise Gamgee, Mister Frodo's gardener and sworn
protector. I guess, I didn't too well at that but I will do better. 
I promise."

"I am pleased to meet you, Sam.  I'm Buffy and I think Frodo is
lucky to have such a true and courageous friend as you."  She bent
down and kissed his cheek.  

Sam looked at her in awe as he touched his cheek.  He turned bright
red and his feet shuffled, shyly.  "Mister Frodo is the one with all
the courage, Lady Buffy, not me."  

Two more Hobbits ran in, mischief shone bright in their eyes. 
"Frodo you are okay?  Look at you in a bed fit for a king."  

They spoke at the same time large grins on their faces. "Is it
bouncy?  I bet it is."  Looking at each other, in a single bound,
they were on the bed, as if joined at the hips.

Buffy marched over to snatch the closest one out of midair.  She set
him on the ground.  The other she caught by his ear just as his
bottom landed on the mattress.  Looking at them sternly, she scolded.
"He has only just recovered.  Didn't your mother ever teach you not
to jump on furniture?" 

"Buffy meet Merry and Pippin. Trouble finds them no matter where
they go."  Frodo tried not to laugh.

"You are pretty.  Too bad you are not a Hobbit," Pippin said.  

"She looks mad Pip.  Don't make her any madder," Merry whispered
loudly.  

"My name is Buffy.  We will get along just fine, as long as you wait
until Frodo is out of bed." They nodded then smiled moving towards
the door.  "I'll know if you try to sneak back in," she warned. 
Looking at each other as if she had read their minds, they ran from
the room.

"I will leave you in Sam's capable hands while I go clean up and
eat.  I will check on you later."  She kissed him on the forehead and
closed the door when she left.  

"She is beautiful," Sam said. 

"She saved me Sam and wants to be my friend.  I have a feeling, once
Buffy is your friend you have one for life.  Like you, Sam. Are you
well?" 

"Oh, don't you worry about ole Sam, Mister Frodo. I'm from hearty
stock.  I'll be by your side until we are back in the Shire, living
side by side again." 

 

Chapter 4

Buffy bathed and put on a new dress.  She had decided to explore
Rivendell, hoping to work out the kinks of last night vigil.  After
walking through the castle, city, town, gardens and forests, she
wondered into a clearing.

Several Elves practiced with their bows shooting at targets lined
further down the field.  The Elf closest to her had pale gold hair
with white skin that glowed in the morning light. Legolas felt
someone watching him, as his last arrow flew he turned. A tiny girl,
no woman, with long dark golden hair, golden skin and the largest
hazel eyes he had ever seen stood not far away. 

He smiled and walked over to her.  "Are you lost?"  

"Nope, just watching.  You are good."  

"Of course, all Elves are good with a bow," he answered, matter-of-
factly.  

Cute but stuck up, much.  "Do you mind if I try?"  She smiled and
put her hand out for the bow.  

"You would not be able to pull this bow." 

"How about if I cannot only pull it but best your score?  I get to
keep it," she dared.  

Legolas raised an eyebrow at her. This was his favorite bow, he had
made it himself, like his father taught him.  He looked at her with a
smirk, "Fine.  There is my target.  My arrows are plain to see.  Use
the next target and beat my score."

Buffy took it holding it to feel the balance. She pulled the string
to test the tension and nodded.  "Gonna need some arrows, Keebler."  

He looked at her in confusion then went to recover his second
quiver.  After handing them to her, Legolas stood directly behind
her.  He had noticed several others gathering to watch.  No one had
ever beaten him before.

Buffy lined up the first arrow and released it.  She watched closely
as it hit the center but towards the outer edge.  Legolas chuckled
from behind her.  She aimed the next arrow; it hit dead center.
Several in the crowd, clapped for her politely.  

"You shoot well, for a woman.  But, you will have to do much better
to beat me."

Buffy looked over her shoulder with a grin, "Keep talking Keebler."
She held the quiver between her thighs after pulling her dress
between her knees to create a pouch for it.  

The Elves admired the view of golden calves.  She then began to
shoot them rapidly one after the other.  Her audience watched in
wonder as the arrows flew towards the target.  One would barely sink
in before another reached its goal.  Buffy pulled the quiver out
releasing her dress.  She handed the bow to Legolas, who still stared
down the field at the target.   

Each of Buffy's arrows were direct in the bull's-eye, one on top of
the other, until the last one landed. It resembled a flower with the
last arrow standing straight out with the ones below it fanned out
below the shaft.  

She started walking away when Legolas rushed to catch up.  "Wait
don't you want the bow?  You won it?" 

"Nope, just knew you wouldn't let me try unless you thought I
couldn't do it.  It's a nice bow.  The balance is off on the right
side though.  If you shaved a little off it would do better."  Buffy
left while Legolas looked down at his bow.  

Looking back up, he realized she was nowhere in sight. Who is she? 
What is her name?  More importantly, how do I find her again? 

 

 

Chapter 5

Elrond sent messengers throughout Rivendell requesting attendance to
a council.  Gandalf escorted Buffy, personally.  He only hoped she
would keep her temper. She had told him about the arrogant Elf she
had met.  Gandalf noticed she seemed troubled but when he asked she
only shook her head. 

Buffy hugged her friend close as she walked with him.  Her dreams
had her worried and distracted.  They showed who would survive, who
wouldn't and who would change forever.  

She saw her mother's, Galadriel as well.  Buffy remembered telling
Joyce about the fairy princess in her dreams.  Her mom would hug her
and say the princess watched over her because she was special.  Buffy
smiled at the memory.

The dreams showed her future events but no timeline or point of
reference.  She knew the Powers were telling her what must happen to
save Middle Earth.  Buffy wished there was someway to change some or
any of it.  She finally learned that fate held a tightly woven
pattern.  If you pulled one thread, it could all fall apart.

~~~~~

Everyone sat down waiting for Elrond to speak.  "We have come here
in a time of great darkness. The ring has once again caught Sauren's
eye.  It must be destroyed. Frodo bring it forth."  

Frodo walked up and put the ring down on a pillar.  Leaving it, he
returned to his seat with a sigh. His shoulders had a great weight
lifted from them.

Boromir stood and asked.  "Why not use the ring against Sauron?  We
could raise an army." 

Fights started over who had the most rights to the ring.  A Dwarf
tried to destroy it with a hammer but it didn't even make a dent. 
The Elf, from yesterday, and him began to fight.

Buffy heard Frodo's soft voice.  "I will take it to Mordor." 

She put names to faces from her dreams then her temper snapped. She
marched up pushing Legolas and Gimli apart.  They flew backwards as
she moved onto the next group.  

Her eyes shot green sparks, when Boromir's voice rang out.  "Who is
this woman, who interferes in men's affairs?"  He walked up taking
her arm to escort her away, from the council.

Moving swiftly, Buffy swept his feet out from under him.  She bent
down grabbing an arm and a leg then picked him up and tossed him onto
a patch of grass.  Her hands rubbed together as she turned back to
the others with her hands on her hips. 

"Now sit down and shut up before I really get pissed off.  Frodo has
something to say."  

Everyone sat quietly, even Boromir after he limped back to the
council area.  Elrond wasn't sure what would happen next; he was sure
it wouldn't be boring.  

"I will take the ring to Mordor, but I do not know the way," Frodo
said, quietly. 

"I will show you.  You have my sword," Aragorn pledged. Seven others
pledged their fealty and strength to the quest, included the other
three Hobbits.  

Buffy walked up to Frodo.  "I will go with you Frodo.  You have my
strength."  Someone made as if to protest but Buffy glared out at the
crowd, "You will have all that I can offer you, my friend."  

He took her hand smiling in relief.  Frodo didn't know why but he
knew she was important to the journey.

"You shall be the Fellowship of the Ring," Elrond said.  

"Cool will we get T-shirts and stuff?"

~~~~~~

The next day they walked to the stable to find mounts.  Buffy loved
to ride since she was a little girl.  It was another reason she had
hated moving to Sunnydale; she couldn't bring her horse. He was a
beautiful palomino, named Silver.  Her dad had loved the Lone Ranger
as a kid so the name was for him.  He almost had a heart attack the
first time she recreated the famous exit. She begged and pleaded to
keep Silver when they moved.  Joyce finally admitted they couldn't
afford it anymore.

She stopped in her tracks and Frodo ran into her back.  "Buffy what
is the matter?" 

"Silver?"  She rushed to a horse that whinnied at her. He was a tall
proud stallion.  One of the stable hands tried to move him out of a
stall but the horse bucked and pulled at the lead rope.  She rushed
forward to calm the stallion.

Afraid the horse would trample her, Legolas tried to stop her.  "It
will kill her.  That woman has no sense.  That horse has not allowed
anyone to ride him."  

He moved to go after her but Aragorn stopped him.  "It appears he
only needed the right person to handle him."  

Legolas looked where his friend pointed. The stallion followed Buffy
like a puppy.  She tethered it to a post while she murmured in its
ear.  Silver's head shook up and down, as if agreeing.  They all
watched the golden haired woman and the horse so close in coloring,
as they bonded.  Buffy grabbed a blanket and laid it lovingly across
the golden back talking to the horse the entire time.  

"You can't take that horse. He isn't broken to the saddle," Legolas
protested.  

"I can and will Keebler.  So back the hell off."  The stallion
stomped his hoof in protest.  "Shush, baby its okay.  The mean Elf is
going away and we will fly again."  She caressed the horse lovingly;
her voice held a singsong quality.

"Gandalf, tell her it is too dangerous."  Legolas appealed to the
wizard.  

"Young prince, it is best not to tell my Imp what to do.  Chances
are you will get the opposite result or the sharp edge of her tongue.
Leave her be, before you make it worse."  Gandalf walked past him to
find his own mount.

Buffy mounted up and they took off. The others saw only the blur of
her golden hair flying out behind her.  Jumping the wall, they ran
full out towards a field. The horse reared up and each of the men
gasped.  Her laughter rang out over the crisp morning air, as she
whipped the horse around sending them back towards the stables.

With her face and eyes sparkling with joy, she stopped in front of
them.  They all stared at the beautiful sight she made.  "Frodo, come
ride with me.  Silver can take our weight and we can talk."  He
walked over and put his hand up to clasp hers.  Buffy easily pulled
him onto the horse behind her.  "Well come on guys.  Don't we have a
ring to melt?"

Legolas looked after her then to Gandalf.  "Her behavior is most
unbecoming.  She wears clothes like a man, fights, and rides as if
she is part horse.  What manner of person have you brought among
us?"  

"You complain a lot, young Prince. I thought your worry was she
couldn't handle the horse.  Now, you are angry she handles it too
well.  As for her clothes, she wouldn't be helpful on this journey in
a dress.  You should make up your mind.  Exactly, what are you angry
about?"  Gandalf rode off after Buffy and Frodo.

Gimli crawled up behind Legolas. "She would make a fine Dwarf, if
she weren't so tall.  I could even overlook no facial hair."  Legolas
scowled taking off quickly, which caused the Dwarf to have to hold on
tight.  

Aragorn had a feeling his friend was in trouble.  Boromir rode
bedside Aragorn, each of them had a Hobbit behind them.  "She is an
interesting woman isn't she?"

"I think more than even Gandalf knows," the heir of Gondor replied.



Chapter 6 
Boromir sparred with Pippin and Merry while Buffy walked with Frodo.
"Frodo, I want to give you something.  It may help.  I know the ring
is already heavy on your heart."  

She pulled off her cross and fastened it around his neck.  The chain
with the ring lie underneath.  Buffy moved it so the ring rested on
top of the cross.  Frodo sighed; he looked at her in relief. 
Somehow, he felt lighter, easier.  

"Listen to what I say.  If you ever need me, I will find a way to
help you.  There is always comfort if you know where to look.  Now
let's go rescue Bor from those two."

Buffy froze then grabbed Frodo up under her arm. She took off in a
full run.  "Aragorn help them.  All of you move now."  She shoved
Frodo into the rocks.  

"Crebain from Duneland."  Legolas shouted as he rushed to help the
others.

Boromir helped Pippin while Aragorn grabbed Merry.  Legolas quickly
moved towards Gandalf.  Seeing Sam trying to put out the fire, Frodo
tried to go after him.  

"Stay here."  Buffy ran to Sam hugging him close to her.  Closing
her eyes, she breathed out and once again, a golden mist encompassed
her.  The others in the rocks couldn't see what was happening,
Gandalf could.  Buffy and Sam winked out of sight, leaving the ground
beneath them undisturbed. The Crebain flew over the campsite.  Once
it was safe, the two reappeared.  

The others moved out of the rocks and Frodo rushed to his friend. 
"Sam are you safe?  They didn't hurt you?" 

"No Mister Frodo, Buffy stayed with me.  They were terrible ugly but
just flew past."

"They should have taken you both," Legolas stated. 

"Gandalf helped us."  Buffy looked at the wizard.  Understanding
passed between the two of them.  

"I do what I can, when needed. We have problems that are more
important.  Crebain are the spies of Saruman.  We have no choice but
to take the pass of Caradhras."

They broke camp quickly while Pippin and Merry grumbled about food.
She smiled thinking of them and Xander all together.  Buffy's smile
soon faded; she knew what was coming.  They climbed higher into the
mountains.  When it got too dangerous, they released the horses.  Sam
cried at the loss of his pony, Bill.  

Taking Silver aside, Buffy talked in his ears softly while she
buried her fingers in his white blonde mane.  Silver's head bounced
up and down as he listened to her words.  When Buffy finally walked
away, he whinnied.  She looked back and he reared up on his back
legs.  Silver watched her slowly climb up the mountain. He waited
until she reached a high peak and waved.  The golden horse slowly
turned and trotted off into the woods.  

"What did you say to him?"  Frodo asked.  

"I told him where to meet me on the journey," she answered,
mysteriously.  

"But how will he know?  How do you know?"  

"That's a secret.  I'll tell you someday.  When this is all over." 
Buffy pulled him up a steep rock then turned to help Sam up.  

She stood on the top of the rock and put her hand down to help the
next person up.  Legolas took her hand.  She looked at him then
pulled hard, sending him flying up the mountain.  She merely turned
back to help Gimli.  Minutes later, Buffy saw Legolas beside her
helping Pippin.

"That wasn't friendly."  He told her as they worked  

"Didn't say I was your friend, Keebler.  Just trying to get everyone
up the mountain before it comes down on us. Since you have this.  I
will move up to keep us going."  

Legolas frowned but turned to pull Gandalf up.  When they got to the
snow higher up, Legolas ran on the top.  He darted back and forth as
if it was a game.  The next time he ran back by, Buffy snatched him
by his shirt.  

"Listen twinkle toes, the others can't do that.  So either grab
someone and take them up or move further off," she growled.  

He looked down and found large clumps of snow on her and the others.
He picked up Pippin then moved several feet over and proceeded to
carry the Hobbit up the mountain. Buffy grabbed Frodo and stepped
over to the other side to do the same. All the Hobbits were now with
Gandalf, who stood beside Aragorn. Boromir wasn't far behind but
Gimli refused to be carried.  

"No one carries this Dwarf."  He trudged up grumbling when they
heard a rumbling sound.  

"Gandalf the mountain is coming down," Buffy shouted.  

"No it will not."  His staff lit up and his voice boomed out.  

He successfully kept the snow from burying them but it now blocked
the trail.  After much debate, Frodo chose to go through the Mines of
Moria.  Buffy's heart grew heavier with each step they took.  One
among them would fall, she would know who when she saw Moria.  In her
heart, she already knew and wasn't sure she would be able to bear it.

 

Chapter 7

As the others tried to figure out the riddle to open the door, Buffy
blinked back tears.  I knew damn it.  Why did I have to be right? I'm
not ready yet.  

Frodo solved the puzzled and the doors opened. Gimli danced with
glee to be so close to his kinsmen.  Buffy laughed at his Dwarf
version of the Snoopy dance.  She ran back to the entrance when she
heard shouting.  Some creature drug Frodo by his feet.  Aragorn
slashed at it while Legolas shot arrows into it.  She joined Boromir
on the other side hacking at anything that moved.  Her eyes never
left Frodo.  She fought as if blindfolded.  Guess I can thank Giles
for all that practice.  

Aragorn levied the deathblow.  When the creature released Frodo,
Buffy jumped for him catching him, she twisted their bodies back
towards safety.  Her foot slipped at the last possible moment but
Boromir grabbed her belt.  He pulled them both to safety. 

She turned giving him a brilliant smile.  "Thanks Bor. A bath in
that muck wasn't on today's to do list."  And She moved Frodo safely
inside the mines.  

Boromir stared after her as if Elf struck.  Legolas stomped over to
him and glared.  "She just smiled and thanked you, Boromir.  I knew
it would be trouble having her with us.  Come on we must catch up." 
He marched after her furious but not sure who with.

"She is an amazing woman. I admit I was wrong about the maid.  She
has the heart of a true warrior.  Her true smile warms you when
pointed towards you. 'Tis quite amazing.  Do you think she would
consider a match? She would make a fine wife and be of great help
when I take on the stewardship of Gondor."  Boromir walked past the
golden haired Elf; a look of wonder on his face.  

As soon as they cleared the entrance, it caved in sealing them
inside.  They had no choice but to move forward.  Legolas who entered
last barely made it inside.  A tiny blonde occupied his mind.  She
filled his thoughts every moment.  Perhaps magic was at work here. He
shook his head in determination and moved forward quickly catching up
with to others.

With Gandalf in the lead, they found themselves in a side room. 
Gimli found the remains of his kinsman. It was heartbreaking to watch
the stalwart Dwarf as he cried. Pippin accidentally knocked over a
skeleton into a well.  It started a chain of events, which would
change all of their lives. They heard the loud sound of many feet
approaching.

Boromir stuck his head out the door then shouted back to the others.
"Orcs and they have a cave-troll."  

"Everyone, get ready, Hobbits to the back," Aragorn yelled.  

Legolas drew an arrow then glanced over at Buffy.  She was glorious
with her sword drawn ready for battle anticipation glowed on her
face.  The Orcs flooded into the room. In a single motion, Buffy was
in midair.  She flipped forward, straight into the heart of the Orcs.
Her sword already moving as she landed.  She sliced, kicked, ducked
and spun among the enemy.  

The others joined the fight with their own battle cries. The cave-
troll broke through the door.  Legolas' arrows flew through the air
while Aragorn battled two Orcs at once.  Boromir hacked at the
troll's leg.  Gandalf's staff and sword moved constantly killing any
Orc in his path.  Legolas tried to stop the troll by grabbing its
chain but couldn't hold on.  It was on a single path to Frodo.  Buffy
moved forward to help when she saw Boromir and Pippin in trouble. 
Left with no choice, she ran over and sliced through the Orcs; she
worked from the outer edge towards the two.

"Aragorn," Frodo screamed.  His eyes wide in terror as the troll
approached him.

"Frodo!"  The troll drug the tiny Hobbit as Aragorn tried to help.  

Legolas climbed up the huge creature finally reaching its head.  He
shot straight into its brain until it was dead.  Unfortunately, not
before it could skewer Frodo with a pike.  They gathered around Frodo
fearing him dead only to discover his shirt of Mithril.  Everyone
felt relief until Gandalf realized Buffy wasn't among them.  

"Where is the Imp?" Hearing the wizard's concern, Legolas searched
the room frantically. 

She walked out from behind a column.  "Stupid Orc tore my shirt.
Don't have time for this and nowhere to change.  Don't even know how
to sew."  Laughing, the Elf picked her up and spun her around.

"What are you doing Keebler?"  

"I thought something had happened to you.  Just happy we are all
safe.  I would have done the same for whoever was the last one found,
even the Dwarf."

 

Chapter 8

"We must be away before more come," Gandalf ordered.  

Buffy pulled Gandalf aside.  "Gandy, will you take something of
mine. I want you to have it.  I have to let go of my other life but
I'll always have the memories in my heart.  If you wear it with the
heart pointing in it means you belong to someone.  I received this
under different circumstances but I want you to have it now. You
belong to me Gandy and I am not losing anyone else I love. Not if I
can help it."  Buffy slipped her claddagh from her hand onto his
little finger.  The heart pointed in and she kissed his cheek.  "For
luck, now let's get out of here."

It wasn't long before they were running from a Bal Rog.  Buffy's
heart pounded in her throat.  As they moved across the bridge, it
collapsed in pieces.  Buffy, Aragorn, Frodo and Gandalf stood on one
side. 

Gandalf looked at Buffy.  He stood proudly with his staff casting a
warm light.  He smiled at her in determination and understanding.

Aragorn ordered Buffy to jump.  She refused telling him to send
Frodo, first.  He easily tossed the little Hobbit to safety.  "Now
you Buffy."  

"No, you first big guy I'll be right behind you." 

"Do as you are told you stubborn woman."  

"Aragorn go, do as she asks.  It will be well," Gandalf said, calmly.

Aragorn glared at her but jumped.  He hoped they knew what they were
doing. Legolas yelled at Aragorn, as soon as his feet found purchase. 

"Give him hell Gandy, I love you.  Oh, I'll see you on the other
side."  Not waiting for a reply Buffy flew across the gap. She landed
on top of the still arguing Elf.  "Were you worried about me
Keebler?"  She asked from her place astride his chest. 

Legolas looked up at her.  His mind blanked for a moment, his body
reacting to her closeness and their position.  

"GANDALF!" Frodo screamed while Aragorn held him.

They watched the gray wizard do battle with the ancient fire demon. 
He appeared to grow ten feet tall in front of their eyes as his voice
boomed.  "YOU SHALLNOT PASS!"  For a moment, they held their breaths.
They thought he would win and continue the quest.  The Bal Rog
grabbed Gandalf as it fell.  He told them to continue as he followed
the demon.  Gandalf had saved them all.   

Frodo was heartbroken.  Gandalf's loss crushed the other Hobbits as
well but not to the extreme of the little ring bearer.  They all
realized now that any of them could fall for the fellowship.  Only
Buffy knew what the future held for them.  She moved to Frodo
wrapping her arms around him as he cried.  The other Hobbits huddled
together. Buffy welcomed them, as a mother would her children.  Frodo
stepped away. 

When Sam went to follow, Buffy stopped him.  "Sometimes you just
have to gather the pieces of your heart, Sam.  No one can help do
that."

Aragorn pushed to move on but Boromir argued for time to grieve.  "I
loved him, Bor but we have a long way to go.  We have to reach a
safer place.  Gandy told us so himself. Moving your feet or sitting
in this snow isn't going to make our sorrow lessen."  

Buffy walked up to Frodo and put her arm around him. The two began
to walk and the other Hobbits followed close behind. She led them on
through the snow.  

"You think she can grow hair on her face.  I mean if she tried?" 
Gimli asked watching her.  "She is everything you could want in a
woman, except for that.  Well and a little more meat on her bones."  

"Her bones look fine to me.  In fact, I don't see anything I would
change," Boromir, added.  He admired the woman who was equal parts
hard and soft as needed.

"Less talking more walking," Legolas snapped, moving past them.  

The two men looked at each other and grinned knowingly.

 

Chapter 9

Several days later, they finally entered the woods of Lothlorien. 
No one could help but smile at the glow on Buffy's face.  They
thought it was from the wonder of the woods but her body hummed being
so close to home.  The place of her birth so long ago.

Gimli stalked through the forest. "Stay close, young Hobbits!  They
say that a great sorceress lives in these woods.  An Elf-witch of
terrible power. All who look upon her fall under her spell?  Well,
here's one Dwarf she won't ensnare so easily.  I have the eyes of a
hawk and the ears of a fox."

Elves suddenly surrounded them and arrows pointed at them from all
around.  It was as if they appeared from shadow. The leader, a tall
handsome Elf with a waterfall of white blonde hair and large blue
eyes, stepped forward.  "That Dwarf breaths so loudly we could have
shot him from miles away."

Buffy appeared behind him and held a knife to his throat.  "Then I
would have to hurt you and all your pretty friends," she whispered in
his ear. 

"What manner of sorcery is this?"  

"Buffy, put down that blade. We come in peace seeking shelter,"
Aragorn ordered.  He hoped she would listen to him.  They couldn't
afford to start a war with the woodland Elves.

"We are going to step over here and have a little powwow,
Striderite.  Keep your pants on."  Buffy backed the much taller Elf
up, her knife steady at his neck. 

When they were far enough away from the others, she leaned up and
licked his ear, causing him to shiver.  "What's the matter Hali not
happy to see me?"  Buffy stepped away grinning as the Elf spun.  

His eyes widened in surprise.  Looking at her closely, he quickly
closed the distance between them to hug her.  "Rie it's you.  You
came back.  When?  How?  The Lady said nothing to me," Haldir smiled.
His childhood friend stood before him with the same light of mischief
showing from her eyes. 

He had been a small boy of seven when she went away at the tender
age of four.  Elven children came into their knowledge and learning
early.  The two were inseparable, much to their parents chagrin at
times.  Buffy though younger was the ringleader of all their pranks
and treasure hunts.

"I have been here since just before the creation of the fellowship. 
They sent me to Gandalf.  Oh, I have missed you Hali.  I would cry
and look everywhere for you."  Tears ran down her face at the
remembered ache. 

"You are home now and never have to leave again.  Your parents will
be so happy to see you.  I can't believe the Lady said nothing to
me."  

"She doesn't know Hali.  Only the ones within real sight can see me.
You will understand later.  Now go back and be nice."  She swatted
his arm.

Haldir pulled her to him for a kiss.  Buffy's eyes grew wide as her
mouth opened to him. He grinned down at her, "You grew up nice Rie
even if you are short." 

Buffy walked beside him with a pout on her lips.  "I am just the
right height.  It's not my fault you are a giant." 

When they joined the others, Haldir said formally.  "I am Haldir,
the Marchwarden of Lothlorien.  The Lady of these Woods welcomes you.
Follow me.  She awaits your arrival."

As they walked through the forest, Buffy looked at her childhood
friend.  He had grown into a handsome man, Elf.  

"What do you think of our forest, lady?" 

"It is so beautiful.  I feel almost like I'm coming home," she
laughed.  

Legolas glared at the two who talked like old friends.  The closer
she got to see her parents again finally, the more nervous Buffy
became.  Haldir thought of the times he and Galadriel had talked of
Ariel.  They would repeat stories and often wondered if she would
ever return.  If she did, would they still be there to greet her.  He
couldn't wait to hear the whole story from her.



Chapter 10 
Celeborn and Galadriel walked down the steps bathed in light, and
greeted their guests.  Aragorn bowed in front of them, as did
Legolas.  The Hobbits looked on in awe.  "I am Galadriel and this is
my husband Celeborn.  We bid you welcome." 

Buffy watched her mother look from one to another.  She knew
Galadriel spoke to some in their minds.  

"Nine of you left on this fellowship.  Yet one of you is not here. 
Where is Gandalf the Gray?  I wish to have words with him," Celeborn
asked. 

Aragorn caught Legolas' eye with a puzzled look.  The fellowship had
ten members before the loss of Gandalf.  

Galadriel warned them of the dangers they would face.  Then she saw
something, which startled her.  "Who else is with you, young Prince
of Mirkwood? Who is there behind you?"  Fear caused her voice to
shake; Galadriel hadn't seen another in her mirror.

Buffy stepped forward to look up at the royal couple.  "Hello
mother, father," her voice a whisper. 

Galadriel paled and Celeborn caught her when she stumbled.  Pulling
away to run down the steps, she caught Buffy in her arms.  Galadriel
kissed her daughter's face.  Tears and laughter mixed on her
beautiful face as she looked on in wonder at the tiny one in her
arms. They made a beautiful sight.  A golden light bathed both women;
the glow wasn't  from any light but from inside them.  Celeborn
slowly walked down the steps not believing his firstborn had returned
to him.  He approached almost as if she were a wild animal or a
ghost.  

Buffy turned, still in her mother's arms, and dove at him.  "Poppy."  

Tears flowed down his face like streams of sliver, as he held her
tightly.  "My heart you are back."

Haldir moved the fellowship away.  He showed them to their quarters
and gave them fresh clothes.  They started asking a million questions
now they had an opportunity.  

"The Lady and her family will tell you all you need to know.  Rest
and be at ease."

Left to themselves, they listened to the Elves sing a lament to
Gandalf.  

"How can she be their daughter?  I do not understand," Sam asked. 

"I knew there was something about her," Gimli grumbled.

"Don't matter to me, she is just Buffy," Pippin happily supplied.  

The others kept their own counsel.

~~~~~

"Are you well daughter?  Why couldn't I see you?"  Galadriel wrapped
an arm around Buffy as they sat in the family quarters.

"No one can see me unless there is a need. It is necessary to keep
me hidden, from Sauron's eye."  Buffy hoped to leave the matter
there.  

"Do you get to stay for a while, Ariel?"  Her father asked from her
other side.  

Sadness entered her eyes, "Only as long as the fellowship does.  The
Valar tied our fates together, Poppy.  When we defeat Sauron then I
will have plenty of time with the both of you, I promise." Buffy
climbed onto his lap, as she did as a child.  "Tell me a story,
Poppy."  

Celeborn smiled brushing his fingers through her hair.  They looked
out the balcony as Galadriel looked on with tears in her eyes.  "One
special night a princess was born. She was so special the stars in
the sky danced in joy.  When she laughed the birds would stop singing
just to listen to her...." Galadriel slipped away leaving them alone.

~~~~~

Frodo couldn't sleep a whisper called to him.  He wondered down
steps to an alcove. Stepping out of the shadows, Galadriel spoke to
him.  "What troubles you little Hobbit?  You carry a heavy burden. 
Would you look into my mirror?"  

"What will I see?  If you asked, I would give it to you."  Frodo
offered the Lady, the one ring.

Buffy watched her mother's hand stretch towards the ring.  She
prayed Galadriel would win her inner battle.  When she stepped away,
Buffy walked forward.  "I knew you could do it, Mother." 

"You knew I would be tested?"  She asked looking at her daughter
closely.  

"Yes," Buffy whispered.  "Frodo look into my mother's mirror.  You
are stronger than you think."  

The little Hobbit moved forward to peer into the water.  What he saw
scared him. His large eyes grew haunted.  

Buffy walked over to him and took his face in her hands.  "Look at
me Frodo," her voice stern. 

"Ariel," Galadriel scolded her treatment of Frodo.

"Don't interfere, mother.  Look at me, Frodo.  Look into my eyes.  I
know what you saw.  I have lived it and now the choice is yours. Is
that future the one you want?  Or do you choose to fight it with
everything you have, everything you are?"  

"I will not let that happen to the Shire," Frodo said in a firm
voice.  

"Then fight for it Frodo.  Everyone can fight, no matter his or her
size.  It is how much you are willing to sacrifice that decides the
outcome."  Kissing his head, she walked away.  Her words hung in the
air like a living thing.  

Frodo looked at Galadriel "Lady your daughter is a wonderful being. 
I am proud to be her friend."  

"Yes Frodo, she is exceptional.  Go and rest your true journey is
yet to come."

 

Chapter 11

Galadriel found Buffy in their private glade, exactly where she
thought she would be. Buffy swam through the water like a mermaid. 
She sat by the quickly discarded clothes and watched her daughter. 
Galadriel wondered of her life, of all the events she had missed. 
She feared most of all that Ariel hated her for sending her away. 

"Penny for them."  Galadriel jumped.  "You were so deep in thought.
What do you want to know mother?  I'll tell you what I can." 

The glade with its deep clear pool was a secret place where only
family could enter.  This was Buffy's favorite place.  She came out
of the water to lie beside her mother.

"Were you treated well?" She combed out Buffy's wet hair bringing
back memories for them both.

"They didn't treat me badly.  It was just not a warm place.  The
Powers know only duty, destiny and fate.  They don't understand
comfort, love or warmth.  I cried a lot, at first, but years pass
faster there.  My childhood faded away quickly.  They trained me to
be ready for this battle the way they thought best." The California
easygoing teenager was gone.  Her body was straight and proud as an
elven princess while she looked out over the pond.

"So all this time, you knew no love?"  Galadriel's heart broke. She
never imagined her child would suffer so, when she gave her up. 

"No, twenty years ago, they sent me into this body.  I was human,
well, sort of, human.  It was their last piece of training. I was a
slayer.  An empowered warrior who fought for them, on different
world.  They wanted to ensure I was ready to return. It also saved
them the trouble of losing another of their warriors. I fought and
bled for them even died one other time.  The Valor set up my fate so
there was no other choice but to sacrifice myself. My sacrifice saved
that Earth and my sister.  Now I see it was their plan all along.  It
was their way to get me home. As I fell through the portal,
everything came back to me - you, Poppy, Gandy, Hali, 'Them'.  They
showed me everything from before my life on Earth.  They tried to rip
my memories from me. The only love and comfort I had known, since
being here."

"By the Valar," Galadriel said.

"Oh yes mother, by the Valar indeed.  They are not wonderful caring
protectors but are cruel and hard.  Our world and many others are
game pieces to them.  I would not allow them to take anymore from me.
See mother, they trained me well, perhaps too well."  Buffy's eyes
grew hard and cold.  The slayer looked out at the Lady of Lothlorien,
holder of the Elven Ring of Power.

Galadriel felt a moment of fear, as a cold shiver went down her
spine.  "Ariel what did you learn from them?"  

"I know you named me Ariel but I prefer Buffy.  It is my name now.
The name that helped me become whole and to come back to you."
Galadriel nodded.  "They taught me to dream-walk, magic, many others
I can't speak of to any.  Your sight is different in me; I see it all
in dreams.  I understand when to interfere and what must play out. 
That was the hardest to learn.  The long years trained my mind to
understand what's true.  I learned the price I pay for the magic they
stuffed into me.  The price is a piece of me that is why I needed a
stronger body.  It is what gives the magic power.  My slayer healing
replaces what I give but I must be careful.  I am still immortal but
if I use too much or for the wrong reasons, the price will be heavy."

Galadriel gathered Buffy in her arms like a small child.  "I love
you and have missed you every day.  Haldir and I would come here to
talk about you and remember your laughter.  Your father couldn't
speak of it but I would catch him some nights sitting at the balcony.
He would whisper your story and cry quietly to himself.  Haldir will
protest you leaving Buffy."  The name felt foreign on her tongue.

"I know but he will have to understand.  He kissed me. It was
wonderful but I am not sure what I feel for him or anyone."

"Would anyone be a Prince of Mirkwood?  His eyes were hot with anger
towards your Hali.  I noticed they held other emotions when they
looked at you."  She laughed at Buffy's blush. 

"He is handsome but kinda full of himself."

"Daughter what Elf in his prime is not?  Never have a docile man;
our blood is too strong to be satisfied by one."  

Buffy thought of Riley almost slapping her head.  Now she tells me. 
Well it all makes sense to me now.  

Elves were passionate people.  They would take many lovers during
their long lives while looking for a mate. Once they married, they
remained faithful.  There was not an elven word for affair or
divorce.  With such long lives, Elves wanted to be sure to pick the
right mate to share their final years. 

"Come let us go back.  I want to enjoy having you home, while I
can."  

"I will be there in a minute.  I'm still too wound up to sleep. 
I'll just swim a little longer."

 

Chapter 12 NC-17

Buffy surfaced from the cool water to find Legolas sitting on the
grass watching her.  "What are you doing here?  How did you even get
in here?"  She demanded.  

"Your mother," he spat, "showed me into the glade.  She said you
were down here by the pool.  Why didn't you tell us, tell me who you
were? Did Gandalf know at least?"

Buffy raised an eyebrow at his tone. She didn't say a word just
walked out of the pool.  Water fell from her body; he watched the
crystal drops run down her golden skin. Her nipples were hard and
coral tipped in the cool night air. She grabbed her dress and pulled
it over her head, in one smooth movement.

"Why would I tell you Keebler?  You like to judge people. Gandy has
known me since the day I was born.  I returned right before the
creation of the fellowship.  That is all that you have earned the
right to know.  Not once have you said a kind word to me or asked a
simple question of my life."  Buffy glared at him, her temper high.

Legolas didn't say a word just kissed her. She opened her mouth to
yell at him and his tongue swept inside. His hands went up to tease
her already hard nipples.  For moments, their tongues dueled for
dominance.  

She pushed him away breathing heavily.  "What was that for?"

"You understood well enough a moment ago.  I haven't talked to you
because you were already too much on my mind.  You are driving me
crazy woman.  Feel what you do to me."  He pulled their bodies flush
together once more capturing her lips.

"Legolas, stop!"  He stepped away breathing deeply.  The passion
that rode his body shocked him in its intensity. 

"If we are ever to be lovers, I would have to know you first. Yes, I
find you attractive.  My body responds to yours. That is plain to
see.  I have never taken a lover but once that I didn't know and
swore it would never happen again."

"What of the Marchwarden?  You met him for five minutes and returned
from the woods with kiss stung lips?"  He growled thinking she told
him a lie.  

"Listen, Prince!  Gorgeous or not you are starting to piss me off. 
Hali and I were children together.  Goodnight Mr. Green Jeans, if you
ever decide to grow up, call me."  She stomped out the glade.  "The
nerve of that stupid Elf." Then she laughed at herself, she was an
Elf.  She may not look it but she was to the marrow of her bones. 

~~~~~~

Buffy enjoyed being home for the few short days they had to rest. 
She renewed friendships but spent most of her time with her parents
and Haldir.  

The last night they attended a huge feast thrown in their honor. She
wore the dress of an Elven maid, in a rich cream.  It made her skin
glow and her eyes sparkled with mischief.  She danced every dance,
swallowing cup after cup of golden Lothlorien wine. That night,
Haldir led her off to the glade.  Legolas watched with eyes full of
jealousy.  There was something deeper hidden in their gray depths, as
well.

In the glade, a bed of blankets lay on the ground with soft pillows
strewn about.  "Pretty sure of yourself weren't you, Hali?"  

"No Rie, just hopeful.  If not me, I thought you and Legolas would
enjoy the gesture." 

"I'm not sure where this will all lead Hali.  Or what my heart
needs."  

"As long as I have a chance Rie, I'll take it. Give me tonight.  I
will send you off with memories to think of before you make a
choice."  

Haldir slid his hand into her hair.  He kissed her upturned face as
the other untied her dress. It pooled at her feet as she stepped out
of it.  Buffy unbuckled his tunic pushing it off his shoulders. 
Bending her head, her tongue snuck out to tease a small nipple while
her hands smoothed over alabaster skin.  He moaned at the warmth of
her tongue and strong small hands that gently caressed him as they
moved towards his breeches.  Buffy pulled them down his firm muscular
legs. 

Haldir shook his feet free then rubbed his body against hers.
Bending his knees so she could wrap her legs around him, he moved
them towards the pallet.  Buffy slid downward as her body welcomed
him eagerly.  Each step Haldir took pushed him deeper inside her
causing her back to arch.  Her inner walls squeezed him as he lay her
down and took her breast into his mouth.  They moaned in harmony.  He
held her full breast lovingly in his large hand as he devoured it. 
Her body clenched him again as she fell over the edge.

Leaning up on his hands, he began to move within her. "More Hali,"
Buffy huskily demanded.  Hooking her legs under his arms, he pulled
her closer as they moved furiously together. 

"Rie so beautiful," he murmured.  This time they found their release
together. 

Looking up at the stars afterwards, "Kinda different from the last
time we did this," she giggled.  

"Well if you want my choice, you have only to look and see your
answer."

Looking down his gleaming white body with its sculpted muscles, she
saw he was once again hard and ready.  "My, oh my, is that for little
oh me," Buffy said in southern accent.  

Seeing the confusion on his face, she laughed then began to kiss
down his body.  Haldir held his breath.  He had hoped for this
pleasure from her. She didn't disappoint.



Chapter 13 
The sun woke them the next morning.  Their bodies soar but languid
as they smiled at each other.  "I won't forget Hali, I promise.  I
haven't forgotten you these years and won't start now."  

Late last night, Galadriel had covered the two lovingly. She left
them fresh clothes for the morning as well.  "My love goes with you
daughter as always."  

They went to join the others walking down from a staircase.  Buffy
dressed in a set of Loren Elf leggings and a tunic.  They fit her
tiny frame perfectly bringing out the green in her eyes.

Legolas realized her eyes were Lothlorien green when she was happy. 
He was still unhappy about her night with Haldir.  At least he won't
be joining us. I still have a chance to become her lover.  He looked
at her flushed face determined to put just such a look on it another
morning.

"I take it back she needs no hair on her face."  Gimli looked at
Buffy in her tight leggings and short tunic.  Her hair was in a long
braid down her hack.  

"Like I said before, no improvements needed," Boromir said.  He
leered at her legs and backside when she turned to hug her father. 
The short tunic rode up showing a hint of Buffy's shapely rear.

"Everyone needs to get their belongings together.  We are ready to
go," Legolas told them, his voice and eyes hard.  

The other two ignored him and continued to stare up at Buffy, until
he pushed them forward.  Looking over their shoulders, they moved
along slowly.  Legolas cursed in several languages under his breath.  

Buffy stood next to Frodo while Galadriel had cloaks handed out to
each of them.  Beside her, Legolas kept glancing sideways trying to
catch her eye.  Galadriel personally gave each person a gift.  She
placed swords, bows, knifes, or a rope in someone's hands.  She gave
each what would they needed most.  Frodo received the light of
Earendil the Elves most beloved star.  

Galadriel stood before Buffy last. "There is but one gift I have but
it is yours by birthright. It will wait for your return."  

Celeborn stepped forward and they held one another.  The three
glowed gold and white for a moment.  Everyone thought it a trick of
the light.  

"I wanted to give you both a gift too.  Don't worry they said I
could. I love you.  Think of me and I will visit when I can." Buffy
kissed them waving good-bye.

"What does she mean dear?" Celeborn turned to his wife in confusion.  

"I will explain husband. It is a long story.  Our daughter has given
us a great gift. You shall see.  Come let us go to our glade, I feel
in need of a swim and your skin next to mine."  They walked away hand
in hand.  Buffy smiled hearing their words.

~~~~

The fellowship paddled down the river until they saw the great
statues of the Argonarth. Buffy heard Aragorn's words of wonder to
Frodo.  

Legolas noticed her getting still and quiet.  "Are you unwell,
Buffy?  Can I do anything for you?"

She turned huge sad eyes to him.  "No Legolas there is nothing, any
of us can do."

They made camp after pulling the boats onto shore.  Aragorn told
them Golum had been following them for days now.  "The ring draws him
like a moth to a flame." 

"Yes it will draw many, burning all but a few."  Buffy walked away
from them.  

Legolas followed until he found her looking out at the water.  "Is
the ring calling to you?  Are you having trouble resisting it?"

She laughed harshly.  "I would be happy if that were only my
problem, Legolas."  

He noticed her use of his real name.  Her thoughts must be heavy, no
nicknames. Maybe she is missing Haldir.  Hating the thought, Legolas
moved behind her to wrap his arms around her.  "I would help if I
could."

They began to talk on the river or rather he began to talk.  Really,
talked to her, asking questions of her life or thoughts.  Legolas
tried to win her friendship hoping for more in the future.  

"I know."  She stiffened then moved out of his arms.  "Orcs, run,
the others are in trouble."  She flew through the trees with Haldir's
favorite bow on her shoulder.  She also carried a sword and no fewer
than six daggers on her body.  Senses on high alert, Buffy ran and
arrows flew without thought.  She could see Legolas further down
doing the same.

 

Chapter 14

Gimli found himself surrounded when daggers flew past him.  Looking
to the side, he saw Buffy sword in hand fighting, spinning and
slashing at Orcs.  Aragorn made the clearing just as Boromir died. He
went on a rampage killing Orcs like a berserker.  

Buffy looked about already knowing Frodo was gone.  "Go for Pippin
and Merry over there."  She yelled at Legolas and Gimli.  They took
off running to save the Hobbits who they heard screaming.

She threw another dagger at an Orc ready to stab Aragorn in the
back. He grinned at her in thanks.  Buffy worked her way over until
the two fought back-to-back.  Minutes later not one Orc remained
standing.  She went to recover her daggers.  Aragorn watched, as they
disappeared on her body.  

"Where do you hold them lass?" 

"Trade secret, now did Frodo make it away clean?"

"You have your mother's gift of sight."  

"Oh no Striderite, something much worse and not a gift at all.  So
is he safely on his way?"  He nodded to her.  "He will be fine and
Sam will keep him true to the course."

"Sam wasn't there.  He must be with the other little ones and in
trouble as well."  

Buffy's smile was all the answer he needed. "Let's join the others. 
We have a friend to bury."  

They found Legolas and Gimli with their shoulders down.  "We
couldn't save them the fellowship is lost," Gimli said disheartened.

"And I thought dwarves were big tough men?"  Buffy's eyebrow quirked
at him.  

"What do you mean?  Frodo and the ring are gone." 

"Yep they are.  Gone to Moira.  Now get up off your sorry ass and
let's go get Merry and Pippin."  

She grinned at Aragorn as she walked by him back into the woods. 
She had just picked up Boromir's body, when she felt it lifted from
her shoulder. She turned to see Legolas carrying him in his arms.

"Where do you want him taken?"  

Buffy walked over to where she had decided was a good spot.  Laying
the body down, he stepped back as she bent and straightened Boromir's
clothes.  

"Go in peace Bor. You did well in the end."  

She kissed his brow then began to stack rocks on his body.  The
others joined her working in silence.

Finally, finished Buffy spoke quietly.  "Boromir of Gondor was a
good man.  He was brave because he faced his fears and won. His death
was not in vain.  His name shall be first among the heroes of this
war.  Many will fall but none in vain.  I promise none in vain."  Her
voice rose, the ground trembled beneath their feet.  Buffy walked
away going to prepare their gear.

"I'm not sure if she blessed him or cursed our enemies.  Just glad
she is on our side," Gimli muttered.  

Aragorn and Legolas looked at each other and couldn't help but agree.

~~~~~

They had been following the trail for days, when Buffy finally
dreamed.  She woke up when Legolas touched her arm.  

"Are you all right?  You were talking in your sleep."  

Buffy got up walking away from the camp without a word.  Aragorn's
eyes opened but Legolas waved for him to be still.  Moving up behind
her, he wrapped his hands around her and she leaned back in his
embrace.  All of them had bonded by their losses and Buffy and
Legolas' attraction grew stronger daily.  

"Can you tell me?  Did you see more of the future?" His voice in her
ear made her shiver.  Thinking her cold, he rubbed her arms.  

"Yes, I saw Frodo.  He journeys on but the ring hurts him, so much. 
We should make some allies soon and see old friends again."  

"That is good.  Why are you so sad?  It is what you can't see, isn't
it?"  She nodded snuggling into him.  "Sweet, let me ease some of
your burden."

Looking up into his dark gray eyes, Buffy pulled his head down to
meet her lips.  Kissing him deeply, she sucked on his tongue; he
moaned holding her tighter. 

"Can you just hold me?  Make me forget for a little while.  I know
we can't do anything else here and it is selfish.  Just please,
Golas, make me forget," she pleaded. 

He devoured her mouth running his hands inside her cloak to rub her
breasts through her tunic.  They grew heavy and full as her nipples
pebbled.  Loosening the ties enough to move the opening over, he
freed one breast.  Legolas' hungry mouth feasted on her golden skin. 
He was all things at once, soft, hard, gentle then punishing. His
hand moved down to touch her over-the-top of her leggings. 

The friction between the material and his movement caused her breath
to quicken.  Her head lolled back, eyes closed, as she groaned deep
in her throat.  Legolas looked up at her; she was glorious as the
moonlight played over her face.  He caught her scream of release in
his mouth then held her close as her body shivered in the afterglow.

Buffy looked into his lust heavy eyes.  "Golas, I'm sorry I could"   

"Ssh, that was for you.  I found pleasure in watching you find
yours.  There will be time for us to find pleasure together later." 
He carried her back to the camp laying her down wrapped in his cloak.
Legolas kept her close as she fell back into sleep.

 

Chapter 15

While tracking the Orcs, they heard horses and hid.  They stepped
out when they saw that men approached.  Aragorn and Legolas went to
talk with them.  After what Buffy could only call a pissing contest,
the leader, omer, finally told them his men had killed every Orc
they saw.  

Buffy listened from her hiding place while they talked. Aragorn and
Legolas finally returned with two horses and the news of what they
had learned.  Gimli was heartbroken until he found Merry's belt. 
Aragorn discovered the path Merry and Pippin had taken which led into
Fangorn Forest.  They entered the forest after their two small
friends.  

Legolas heard the trees protest and warned Gimli to lower his ax. 
Buffy walked behind them grinning from ear to ear.  She stopped a
little ways off and leaned against a tree.

"The white wizard approaches.  We must attack quickly," Aragorn told
them.  

Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli found themselves easily disarmed.  A
voice still hidden in shadow told them the Hobbits were safe.  

"Saruman knows nothing of truth," Aragorn replied.  

"Do you still not know me, heir of Isildur?  I have changed but
still we have called each other friend, over these many years." 
Gandalf lowered his staff so the light no longer cast its shadow.  

"By the Valar," Aragorn whispered.  

"Took you long enough Gandy," Buffy smirked from her place against
the tree. Gandalf looked at her sternly then grinned.  She ran to him
and threw herself into his arms.  

Laughing he caught her.  "Imp, if I didn't know better, I would say
that was one of your pranks." He smacked her bottom as he sat her
down.

"You knew yet you let us grieve," Aragorn's eyes blazed at her. 
"What of Frodo, yourfriend?  How could you do that to him?"  

"If you ever want to have children I'd move back," she warned.  

Legolas went to stop them but Gandalf shook his head.  "Listen,
until you are ready to quit hiding from what you are, don't tell me
how to be what I am.  I know what I did and why I did it.  Someday,
if you are lucky, I'll explain it to you.  Until then, clean up your
own backyard Aragorn, Elendil's heir of Gondor."  Buffy marched out
of the forest.

Aragorn whirled at Gandalf's laughter. "Has a bad temper my Imp,
always has.  She did what was needed, Aragorn.  If she had told
Frodo, would he have waited for me or continued.  Think of it,
Ranger.  Her burden is even greater then his or yours.  Don't push at
her.  She has sacrificed much already.  I'm afraid before this quest
ends it will require even more."

Torn between whom to go to, Legolas looked at Aragorn.  He had known
Aragorn a longtime and called him brother. But, Buffy had quickly
taken up the spaces in his heart where no other had been.  "Come
brother, we would not want to be left behind, by a Dwarf."  Aragorn
laughed as they walked back out into the clearing arm-in-arm.

~~~~~

"We must ride to Edoras.  Saruman has brought war to the Rohan." 
Gandalf let out a piercing whistle and a beautiful white stallion
rode down the-hill.  

"That is one of the Mearas," Legolas said in awe.  

"His name is Shadowfax. He is lord of all horses and my friend
through many dangers," Gandalf explained.

Hearing Buffy's laughter, they looked over to see her being nuzzled
by - Silver.   

"Are these hills bespelled? Do horses just appear by magic?"  Gimli
looked at the two horses that had just appeared from nowhere.  

Buffy mounted the golden stallion and he reared his front legs into
the air.  Her laughter rang out crisp and bright in the clearing. 
The others looked at Gandalf questioningly, it seemed for a moment
the birds stopped singing.  There was no other sound save Buffy's
musical joy.

"Well come on boys.  Didn't I hear there was some asses to kick? If
you don't hurry, I won't leave any for you."  She spun her mount
thundering off towards Edoras.  

"How does she even know where to go?"  Gimli asked the other men in
confusion. 

"It seems if there is to be fighting; Buffy always knows where to
go.  I have at least learned that much," Aragorn answered the Dwarf.  

They mounted and rode hard to catch up to her. Legolas finally
caught her with Gimli riding behind him.  

"Lass how did your fine horse know where to find you?"  

"I told him silly.  Sil is a smart horse, aren't you boy."  

"Buffy, do you ever say anyone's given name."

"Only if I am upset or pissed. Then they should run, hide or pray." 
Buffy smiled at him. "Does that answer your question for you,
Golas?"  

He looked at her lips hungrily.  "Yes it does Sweet, it does indeed."

Gandalf watched the two glancing at Aragorn who nodded.  The Prince
of Mirkwood would make her a fine husband, if he can go the distance.
My Imp could try the patience of an Ent but she is worth the trouble.
Perhaps, he can help ease her burdens.  I am afraid they only grow
greater each day.  Her shoulders are so tiny to hold so much on them.

As they entered the gates of Edoras, Gandalf felt the work of
Saruman at play.  He walked into the hall feebly and begged to keep
his staff.  The rest reluctantly removed all their weapons or so they
thought.  Gandalf denounced Wormtail, who ordered the guards to
attack.  Buffy pitched each of the others a dagger then headed for
the target of the grease ball's affections, the king's daughter.

Jumping and flipping over the guards, she landed behind owyn
putting a dagger to her throat.  "Hey Wormy, call them off or the
Princess Bride here goes night, night."  

"Halt," Wormtail ordered.  Saruman had promised him the fair White
Lady.  He would not allow any to harm her, not before he had that
pleasure himself.

In the confusion, Gandalf made it to King Th‚oden and whispered in
his ear.  The king returned to his natural years and chased Wormtail
out of the Golden Hall.  Aragorn stopped him from killing evil
councilor.



Chapter 16 NC-17 (Legolas Yum) 
Buffy lowered her knife stepping away.  "Sorry about that.  Had to
give Gandy a chance to work some mojo on your dad.  I'm Buffy. 
What's your name?" 

"I am owyn, the White Lady, daughter of Th‚oden, King of Rohan."
She answered proudly, her back straight, as she looked Buffy in the
eyes. 

"So Wyne aren't you glad to have you dad back?"  

"Yes but since Wormtail's bespellment we lost my brother.  My father
will take the news hard since he has lost Rohan's heir." 

Buffy looked at the other woman seeing the strength behind the
beauty.  "You could be his heir."  She walked away leaving father and
daughter to their reunion and grief.

Later in her room, Buffy soaked in a large tub.  She heard the door
but her eyes remained closed. "It isn't time to get out is it?"  

"Not the welcome I was hoping for?  I came to take a bath with my
wife?"  Legolas' eye sparkled mischievously.  

"Oh, we got married did we?  Wow, must have been so long ago I
forgot the whole ceremony," her eyebrow quirked at him.  

"There was much talk in the hall of a single woman in the company of
four men.  Gandalf told them of our marriage. That you chose to
follow me into battle rather than leave my side." Legolas undressed
the entire time he explained.  

"Oh, so Gandy married us to protect my virtue?  But, who is going to
protect me from you?"  

"No one I hope."  He was nude and stood beside the large tub
watching her face.  

"Then I suggest you get in Golas before the water gets cold.  It's
much more fun if we are both in the tub.  I'm clean, so I guess we
had better see about getting you the same way, husband.  That is if
you want to touch my soft clean skin.  Yours has to be just as
clean."  Buffy laughed as he nearly dove into the tub and began to
scrub off the grime of their journey.  

His smile turned predator when he moved towards her in the water. 
Her face already flushed from the heat blossomed even brighter.  His
eyes resembled the gray before a winter's storm as he drank in the
sight of her.  Legolas pulled her legs around his hips as he slid
between her thighs.  

Each hand started at her feet swept up to her hips, waist and
stomach until they found a breast and teased it to life.  Buffy
captured his mouth with her own, demanding entrance at the same time
he entered her body.  They both moaned at the feel of the other.

"Golas," she sighed.  He watched her face as she quickly climaxed
from the next movement of his hips.  Buffy's head leaned over the
edge of the tub baring her throat for him as he nibbled.  

"You taste wonderful Buffy, sweet like honey.  I could stay here
within you forever," his voice husky with need.  

"That would be paradise to hide from the world just loving each
other endlessly.  We may never have that, but we have now.  Show me
paradise Golas. Take us there."  

Legolas moved inside her pushing deeper as his hand found her
swollen bud.  Buffy screamed his name.  Her walls clinched around him
and her hips matched the rhythm he had set. He yelled her name
pouring his seed into her.  Legolas buried his face in her neck and
his body shuddered.  Buffy wrapped her arms around him holding him
tightly to her.

"I think I could become a two-bath a day girl, Golas."  

He laughed, "If it would be like that.  I would live in this tub."  

"It would make it awful hard to.."

"You were saying something about hard, Sweet?"  

"Oh my Golas, you are a naught boy."

 

Chapter 17

After burying the king's son, Gandalf rode off to find help.  The
rest of them moved all the people to a fortress deep in the
mountains.  They had almost lost Aragorn on the journey.  Now they
waited for the Orc army to attack.

They made it to Helm's Deep only to prepare immediately for battle. 
The women and children hid in caves below the fortress.  Buffy
thought of their moments of paradise while she looked out at an army
of Urak-Hai, Orcs and Wildmen. She stood on the walls of Helm's Deep,
proud and straight like a golden statue.  

"Buffy come down you are making yourself a target," Aragorn ordered.  

"Striderite, I have been a target since the day I was born." 

Last night, she walked in her dreams and talked to her parents.  She
told them they needed help.  Mother will send Hali and Golas will get
jealous.  

Looking down at Aragorn and the necklace around his neck.  "Do you
really love my niece?" 

His head came up at the unexpected question.  "Yes with all that I
am."  

"Then hold on tight.  Life is empty without love, even for the
immortal."  Hopping down off-the-wall, she walked away.  He stared
after her, still touching his necklace.

~~~~~

Buffy was still furious about what else had happened last night as
she dream walked.  Arwen called out for help wishing for her mother's
guidance. Buffy went to her hoping to ease her heart.  

"Does your love mean so little niece?  Are you not willing to
sacrifice for it? To have what years you can?" 

"The visions they showed me at his grave. I was alone," Arwen cried.  

"Is that all that was there? Did you look harder?  Has he changed
greatly over the years, Wen?  Did you think becoming mortal would
make you age like a normal human.  You have the strength in you to
guide your own destiny.  If you choose it.  It is not your father's
place, no matter what he thinks.  But if you are not strong enough or
don't love him enough then go.  Go and hide across the water in
Valinor," Buffy spat.  

"No, I love Aragorn with all of my heart, aunt.  What should I do?" 
Arwen pleaded for Buffy's guidance.  

"Look into your heart, Wen.  What does it tell you to do?  What were
your words to your lover?  If they were true then your answer is
there."  Buffy faded away but her anger at a certain Elven father
only grew stronger.  "Stubborn man."

~~~~~

King Th‚oden argued with Legolas; his 'wife' belonged with the other
women.  She walked around looking for the largest soldier she could
find.  Buffy told the man, "Sorry about this but your king is
stubborn pig."  She picked him up and threw him across the whole
courtyard.  No one made a sound when he landed on the hay stacked for
the horses.  

Nodding her head at the king she walked up and took Legolas' hand
pulling him way.  He tried to keep from laughing until they were
further away from the king. "Now I know why Gandalf calls you, Imp."  

"Worked didn't it. We don't have time to stand around stroking his
ego.  He can't try to blame me for Wormy's spell.  Now could you give
me a kiss before all of this starts."  Legolas passionately kissed
her causing them both to gulp for air.  "That will do for now."

Buffy was grateful for even this short break.  She knew that soon
their lives would change drastically as each event unfolded.  They
heard a horn; it was the Elves.  Buffy perked up at the sound. 

"Open the gates let them in hurry."  She went down to throw them
open but Legolas held her back.  

"We don't know who it is love."

"Yes we do, I do."  Buffy hurried down to meet Haldir as he led in a
contingent of Lothlorien Elves.  Legolas stiffened when he saw the
Marchwarden.  Buffy threw herself into his arms and Haldir easily
caught her.

He saw they were causing a scene and put her down. "Rie you are ever
getting me in trouble.  Now I have an official message to deliver. 
We will talk more, later when a certain Prince isn't shooting daggers
at me with his eyes."

Haldir led the Elves to Th‚oden and formally announced the renewal
of the alliance between Elves and Men.  He noticed Aragorn and nodded
his head in greeting.  The future king surprisingly walked over and
hugged him.  

 

Chapter 18

The Urak-Hai stood at the front of a vast army of Orcs and Wildmen. 
They spread out in front of the keep's wall.  Both sides were waiting
until an arrow accidentally flew from the keep's walls.  Then all
hell broke loose.  

The Elves and archers shot volley after volley of arrows but the
army continued to march forward.  Ladders appeared on the walls as
the enemy tried to breach them.  Everyone pulled blades causing Gimli
to grin for a chance to join in.  Legolas' bow moved so fast the
string sounded like he played a song.  Gimli swung his ax taking the
head of any Orc in reach.  The two friends shouted their kill numbers
at each other.  

Aragorn fought and directed the attack, simultaneously.  Legolas
looked for Buffy where he had last seen her and began to panic.  He
found her among all the chaos; his breath caught in his chest.  She
fought three Orcs at once as they fell; she blew him a kiss.  

When the Orcs breached the causeway, Buffy stood on the top of the
wall.  A sword in one hand, a dagger in the other, she flipped
forward into the enemy waiting below.  Legolas grabbing a shield used
it like a sled.  He slid down the incline after her.  His twin swords
flashed while he looked for her; he finally saw her golden hair. He
fought his way towards her until almost reaching her side. 

Legolas finally noticed the others fighting around him as well. He
saw another headed in the same direction as him.  He pulled his bow
and aimed it straight at the heart.  When he finally made it to
Buffy's side, he sighed with relief.  Looking about him, the sight
caused his heart to clench.  Bodies of dead Orcs surrounded her and
black blood marred her cheeks.  She had her eyes closed and her face
was pale. He moved to go to her but Haldir stopped him.  

"Do not touch her, she is weaving a spell. If either of us touch
her, we may harm her."  

Legolas' heartbeat in his throat but he nodded.  They watched a fine
mist rise from her mouth.  It picked up speed rushing out into the
valley to surround the enemy army.  Buffy fell to her knees.  Both
men raced to catch her before she hit the ground.  Haldir got there
first and gathered her small body to his chest.  

Legolas glared at him.  "Give her to me.  She is mine to care for
and protect."  

"No, she has always been mine to protect. Whether she chooses
another or not.  Her mother sent me to aide her in anyway possible. 
I will fulfill my duty.  So do we stand here arguing or get Rie and
the rest of the wounded inside. She has given us a respite to gather
our strength.  Once again, would you waste her gift with your
jealousy?"  Haldir asked walking away.

Legolas picked up the closest wounded man and carried him inside.
Haldir's words were heavy on his heart.  Will I lose her now the
Marchwarden is here?  l don't know if I can bare the loss. Buffy is
mine and I will fight for her.

When he entered the castle to lay the man down, he saw that Haldir
hovered over Buffy's small body.  Legolas moved quickly dropping down
to her other side. She was so pale, her usual golden skin looked
closer to the white of his skin.  He knew true fear in that moment
not of losing her to Haldir, but forever.  Buffy moaned causing both
men to sigh in relief then they grinned at each other.  

Gimli rushed over when he saw them.  "What has happen to our lassy?
Was she injured?  I can't believe it, not the way she fought. What
can we do?  Our poor lassy, we cannot lose her."

"Gim come here," Buffy croaked from her throat raw.  "What was your
last count?"  

"Was she hit in the head?  Is she dazed?" 

"Gim, how many?"  She asked the Dwarf once more.

"I killed 57 of those black devils lassy, all for you."  

"Golas what was yours" "73."  She gave a hoarse bark of laughter. 
They looked at her as if she were mad.  "Ha, beat you both.  I got
91. So what is my prize?"

"Oh for you lassy anything your heart desires. As long as you stay
on this side of death's great door," Gimli said gruffly.  

Buffy laughed then moaned from the pain that it caused her throat. 
"Hali, would you go see if they have any honey? I need some in hot
water for my throat."  

"I'll be right back Rie."  Haldir went to bring back the drink she
requested. 

She looked at Legolas.  His eyes still full of the fear he had felt
was still feeling.  "I'm fine Golas.  Just always, have to pay a
price for almost everything, especially magic.  Come here."  Bending
down close to her, she moved her hand to caress his face.  

Catching her hand, he gently kissed the palm when Haldir returned. 
He watched as the other Elf helped her to sip the drink and whispered
in her ear.  Buffy nodded her head as her throat eased. 

Legolas wondered what they were saying.  She reassured him of her
interest in him.  Haldir laid her back down and her eyes closed. 
Legolas refused to leave her side as the others moved away to let her
rest

Aragorn walked over clasping his shoulder.  "She is a remarkable
woman cherish what you have Legolas. Our futures are all uncertain."



Chapter 19 
Buffy's dreamed in minuet detail; it showed her all their different
paths.  Frodo and Sam traveling with Gollum through the marshes
towards Mordor.  Aragorn melted into Gandy with Pippin.  She saw her
place in the days to come even where their paths would all meet
again.  Buffy couldn't see her final task, her true destiny.  What
they needed from her.  She took part in this dream by pushing her
mind.  It revealed more and more but no matter how hard she pushed,
she couldn't see her final destiny.  Buffy's body shot up off the
pallet and Legolas grabbed her.

"Buffy you must rest, beloved.  Please, we are about to ride out. 
Lie back, you are too weak to fight more and have done enough." 

She resisted when he tried to push her back down.  "No baby, I just
needed to catch my breath.  Send some people to the caves and move
the people back towards the keep.  Hurry now!" She strode over to
Aragorn and the king.

"Gandy will be here soon. Give me a sec, I gotta get, Sil."  She
moved away at a run. 

Th‚oden looked at Aragorn.  "That is the most unusual woman." 

"You have no idea, your majesty," Aragorn grinned.  Legolas and
Haldir joined them both looked around for Buffy.  "She went for her
horse."  

Haldir groaned, "She was the same as a child. You can't change her
mind or get her away from something she loves." 

Buffy rode up on Silver looking like an Amazon ready for battle.
"Let's go kick some Orc ass."  

Th‚oden rallied the men. "For Rohan.  For freedom.  To Victory."  He
led them out to meet the army.

They rode straight into the Orcs and the fighting started
immediately.  The men on foot charged.  Suddenly, over the crest of a
hill a bright light shown.  Gandalf on Shadowfax led the Horsemen of
Rohan into the battle below.  

The Orc army found itself cornered by attacking armies on two sides.
Sauron's army lost great numbers and retreated into a forest of trees
then disappeared.

Gandalf rode up next to Buffy.  "Well, you came late to the party
but you brought prezzies."  He now understood her strange way of
speaking and laughed.  

Legolas exclaimed, "Gandalf, it is good to see you.  How did you
make the trees appear like that?"  

"I did not, young Prince."  They both turned to Buffy.  

"Hey, I didn't make any trees grow, promise."  They missed her smile
when they turned.

Gandalf rode off to speak with Aragorn and Th‚oden while Buffy
looked out at the trees.  

"Maybe they are a gift from the Valar," Legolas suggested.  

"I was thinking of my parents.  Hali and the others will be going
back soon. I was trying to think, what I wanted him to tell them.  I
know they worry for me, for all of us."  

"Haldir isn't staying here with you?"  

"No Golas, his place is in the Forest of Lothlorien. Mine is here." 
Buffy turning Silver rode back to the keep.

When Legolas entered the hall, he saw Buffy talking in the corner to
the handsome Elf.  His jealousy hit him hard and he started to go
stop them. 

"Do not interfere, Legolas.  Whatever choice she makes is hers
alone.  Your jealousy may change what could be your victory," Gandalf
warned.

Haldir nodded then grabbed Buffy giving her a deep kiss and walked
away.  She looked after him, for a few moments then began to help the
wounded.  Legolas joined her saying nothing just helping her quietly.
She smiled up at him after binding an arm before moving on to the
next person.

~~~~~

The next morning, the remains of the fellowship rode for Isengard. 
They were riding through Fangorn Forest when they spotted Merry and
Pippin.  The two Hobbits sat on a wall smoking pipes.  When they got
closer, they noticed the flooded valley below.  Both hobbits started
talking at the same time telling told their friends of their rescue
by an Ent.  The Ent's name who rescued them was Treedbeard. He was in
charge of all the other Ents.  They guarded this place for him, they
announced proudly.  The others smiled watching Pippin and Merry's
happy faces.

The Ents were a magnificent sight. Everyone looked on in wonder as
they destroyed Isengard.  Buffy moved away while Aragorn and Legolas
guarded the way for the newly white wizard to face off against
Saruman.  

Buffy smiled up at Treebeard who bowed to her when she put her hands
up.  The Ent wrangler gently picked her up and sat her on his branch.

"You were wonderful old friend.  I have missed my rides on your
great shoulders. I always told Poppy, it was like flying.  Your
forest was helpful in our battle.  We won but it is only the
beginning, I'm afraid. I hope now that you are fighting back, it will
stop any the creation of more Orcs.  Kind of like closing the door
after the horses are out but it will have to do.  So who is new,
since I have been gone?"  Her hand smoothed over his rough bark.

Treebeard laughed; she was the same as a child.  The little princess
had always rattled off questions and words at a fast pace.  Luckily,
Ents understood faster than they spoke.  The two old friends visited
for a while until Legolas noticed her high up in the tree. 

He panicked until her heard her sunny laughter mixed with the trees
deep rumble.  Shaking his head, he wondered if she would ever stop
surprising him.  Then he smiled, he certainly hoped not. 

Seeing him on the ground, Buffy soon joined him.  Legolas spun her
around in his arms causing her to giggle.  "Happy to see me babe?"  

"You said you had nothing to do with making the forest appear."  

"I didn't, Treebeard sent them.  I only sent Mother a message that
we needed help from old friends."  

"So how do you know Treebeard?"  

"Golas, sweetheart, Lothlorien is my birthplace. It is an enchanted
forest and I am firstborn.  Treebeard and the Ents came to pay
tribute.  The story goes that I was crying. When he bowed before us,
I stopped and started smiling.  Mother put me in his arms and I
laughed.  He would visit me often. When I was old enough to talk, I
demanded rides at the top." Her face glowed from the happy memories
of childhood.

 

Chapter 20 NC17

Three days later, they retuned to Edoras.  King Th‚oden welcomed
them back in victory and held a huge feast to celebrate. owyn had
fallen for Aragorn and he seemed taken with the White Lady. 

Buffy walked over interrupting the two who were talking quietly.
"Aragorn, can I talk to you a minute."  

Legolas' eyes went wide remembering her words about names.  "Buffy,
what is wrong can I help?"  

"No Golas, this is between me and Aragorn."  Aragorn got up from the
table and followed Buffy outside.

"Just, what do you think you are doing in there?  I won't let you
cheat on Arwen. Not right in front of my face."  Buffy spat at him
while her eyes turned into twin flames of blazing green fire.  

"Buffy, we were merely speaking.  She knows of my love for another." 

"Hello, wake up smell the come on, right in front of your face. You
are either leading her on, flirting because you think it's harmless,
wanting some, or are just plain stupid.  None of those is acceptable,
not with Arwen's Star of Eternity around your neck.  She is willing
to give up everything for you.  Don't make me have to hurt you,
Aragorn." 

"I am not worthy of such a love.  She is everlasting and I am but a
man."  Aragorn tried to reason with Buffy. 

She hauled off punching him in the jaw.  The blow sent him backwards
to hit the outer wall of the hall.  "Stay down and listen close to my
words.  Cut that crap out.  If you don't love her then say so and let
her go.  She will heal, someday.  Don't leave her hanging with your
self-righteous act.  Snap out of it, Arwen wouldn't love you if you
weren't a good man.  My niece isn't a stupid woman so don't treat her
like one.  For goodness sake, she is what 3000 years old.  That is
plenty old enough for her know her own mind.  Now make yours the hell
up and stick by it."  Buffy left him there on the ground deep in
thought.

She entered the Golden Hall alone and Legolas rushed over worry
clear in his eyes.  "I didn't kill him honey and I only hit him once.
Tempted but I held off, Arwen loves the dork."  

Buffy moved to go back to their table but he stopped her.  "I want
you to know that no matter whom you chose; I chose you Buffy,
always."  

Buffy remembered saying those words to a different lover.  'Always'
had a different sound here, now with Legolas.  When she said it to
Angel, it was like a death knoll in her head.  That she was his no
matter what he did to her or them, that he owned her. Now, here with
this man it was a promise of hope for a future where they would stand
side-by-side.  Always supporting each other, to be there no matter
how angry or foolish one of them acted. It promised of 'love' not
ownership.

Taking his hand, she led him upstairs after seeing the truth of his
words clear in his eyes.  She pushed him to sit on the bed then stood
between his legs.  "I love you, Legolas.  If you want it, I pledge to
you my heart.  I give you my word to stand with you through the years
until one or both of us are gone.  Then I will wait for you on the
other side until you join me once again.  Legolas, if you accept me
as I am, all that I am, all that I offer then I will be your mate in
this life and the next."

He caressed her face.  "You lied there is one other time you use
one's name, it is in private with love.  I thought I would lose you
to this fight or another.  I realized I would choose to fade, rather
than live without you.  I love you Buffy and accept your heart in
exchange for my own.  I will proudly be your mate, as you are mine,
until death parts us and we join again on the other side.  I will
wait for you beloved, forever." He kissed her tenderly pulling her
onto the bed with him.

Legolas looked down at her beautiful face, tears shone in both of
their eyes. "After our journey is over, we shall go to Mirkwood. 
There we will have a grand ceremony with all our friends and family
joined about us.  They can witness our vows and see our joy.  But,
tonight will always be our true bonding night.  Let me love you
beloved as my mate, my lover, my wife."

"Come to me husband and let me show you how to make the stars
dance."  Her voice was husky, her eyes full of love and desire.  

Buffy pulled his shirt apart nipping at his ear teasingly.  An elf's
ears were one of their most sensitive erogenous zones.  He moaned as
she rubbed the delicate tips.  Hands pulled at clothes until they
were both bare and breathless.  

Her lips moved down his body.  She smoothed the way with her hands
followed by her lips and tongue. She tasted his skin lovingly, every
inch of it.  Buffy's mouth hovered over him as he watched her take
him inside.  She licked, nibbled then sucked him down her throat as
far as he would go. Her hands held the rest of him circling him like
a cat ready to pounce. 

Teeth scraped down his length as she sucked in hollowing her cheeks
out, then pulled her head up to the tip.  His back arched as his
hands grabbed the bed to keep from forcing himself further down her
throat.  Deep grunts sounded from his own throat as his breath
quickened.  Buffy glimpsed up with eyes full of heat while she sucked
hard, only on the engorged head.  Her hands moved easily since she
had eased the way with her mouth.  Faster and faster, she took him
until he arched into her screaming her name, filling her waiting
mouth with his hot seed.

Legolas finally caught his breath. "I am not sure if they danced
beloved but I am sure I saw stars. I believe it is my turn to see
what shapes and colors I can make flash behind your eyes."  They
loved throughout the night never letting each other go, always
connected in form or another.

 

Chapter 21

While the two lovers slept in each other's arms, Pippin looked into
the Palantir.  Near the morning, Buffy fell into a dream.  She saw
Sam who wished for her.  She saw his fears for Frodo and the heart of
a lion hidden inside his small body.  Buffy visited him telling him
to hold true to his course and always trust himself. In the darkest
hour, he would find the brave knight hidden inside. He needed to dig
deep, use his anger and fear because Frodo would need his warrior
spirit.  Buffy told the stalwart Hobbit his friend was not the only
one who would fulfill their destiny on this journey.

She tried to reach Frodo but the ring blocked her way. Buffy could
only help him if he called to her.  She knew she would have to trust
in Sam to watch over him.  Gollum's influence on Sm‚agol tore apart
the poor creature's frail psyche more each day. The draw of the ring
ate away at the small part of him that wanted to help.

Buffy saw the two paths ahead for her own group and herself. This
was the first time she saw part of her own path and her body shook. 
Legolas woke when he felt her shaking.  He held her down and cried
out for Gandalf.  

Unfortunately, it happened at the same time Gandalf saw Pippin
looking into the Palantir. Events moved quickly after Pippin answered
questions about what he saw.  Everyone focused on his answers, so
none saw the color drain from Buffy's face when he described the
white tree.  Gandalf feared Sauron now thought Pippin had the ring. 
He would take him on to Minas Tirith at Gondor.

Aragorn tried to convince Th‚oden to ride for Gondor, as well. 
Gandalf told Aragorn not to use the regular route but look for the
black ships.  He walked to the stable to ready Shadowfax.  The two
little hobbits said their farewells.  Buffy kissed Pippin's head.  

"Be brave little one, we will all be counting on you."  

He looked at her confused as she went to send Gandalf off.  She
threw her arms around the surprised wizard.  

"Imp, I thought we had already said our goodbyes." 

"I know but just one more for luck, Gandy."  Buffy mumbled into his
shoulder.  

Behind his back, she cupped her hands blowing onto the crystal in
his staff.  It glowed bright blue for a mere instant then returned to
normal.  "Gandy, remember you are a White Wizard now.  Dig deep use
all that you have earned. I love you be careful both of you.  You can
rely on Pippin when needed, he is braver than you think."  

She kissed his cheek then joined Merry in the tower.  They watched
until Shadowfax was out of sight.  She hoped Gandalf remembered her
words. Buffy did what she could and there would be a price to pay but
she would bare that burden.  

Gandy is a stubborn man.  Maybe that is why I love him so much.

~~~~~

Gandalf and Pippin made it to Minas Tirith exhausted.  Faramir,
Boromir's brother, was heartbroken when he heard the news of
Boromir's death.  His father he realized was quite mad.  Faramir
would perform his duty and ride out to fight the enemy.  The Steward
of Gondor refused to light the fires to call the others to battle, no
matter what Gandalf said. He convinced Pippin to climb the watcher
tower and light the fire.

Fires lit across the land, one after another.  Aragorn told Th‚oden
who finally agreed to ride for Gondor.  When Aragorn went to saddle
his horse, owyn followed to ready her own.  

He noticed her sword, which she quickly covered.  "The Elf's wife
isn't the only woman that can wield a blade."  She smiled at him
brightly. 

Buffy walked up to and overheard the other woman's words.  "owyn, I
think we need to talk woman-to-woman."  

"Buffy, there is no need for that.  She understands that another
owns my heart. Arwen has all of my heart there is room for no other."
He moved his horse away considering the situation settled.  

owyn watched him with a hungry look on her face.  It reminded Buffy
of Faith or Cordellia when she had been with Angel.  "Look he is
pledged to my niece and you are only making him and everyone else
uncomfortable. So quit with all the come-ons already.  I usually
don't hit women but for you I might make an exception.  If you want
to be out of your father's house then leave.  If you want to fight
then do so.  You don't need a man to create a life for yourself.
Don't do something thinking it is going to make a difference between
you and him.  It won't and it never will."

"He is pledged to the elf maiden, I thought he was just being
chivalrous.  I would have made him a good wife."  

"That may have been true if Arwen wasn't in the picture, but she is.
You can't use him to run from your life, be your own woman fight for
your future."  

Buffy walked away to find Legolas while everyone prepared for the
journey to Gondor.   

"Do I want to know what is behind that smile?" 

"Probably not honey probably not.  Everything will happen fast but
don't ever forget I love you, always.'



Chapter 22 
In the open fields outside Minas Tirith, the remaining soldiers
urged their horses on across the open fields of the Pelennor.  The
Nazg–l following them would lift men from their horses as they rode.

As the soldiers approached the city, Gandalf went out on Shadowfax
to help.  The people of Gondor watched as the wizard rode out like a
knight into single combat on a glowing white horse.  He charged down
the valley towards the men straight into the middle of the fighting. 
Gandalf's white staff rose above his head. He heard Buffy's words
whisper in his mind and pulled from a place deep within.  He thought
back to his battle of fire with the Bal Rog.  A blinding beam of
white fire shot from the staff's tip.  With a shriek, the Nazg–l
wings caught fire causing it to draw back.  Taking to the skies,
where it burst into flames dropping like a stone onto the Orc army. 
Inside the gates safe once more Faramir told Gandalf what had
happened.  The Steward of Gondor wasn't happy to see his only son had
returned. 

~~~~~

At the exact moment Gandalf used his staff, Buffy's scream sounded
throughout the Golden Hall of Rohan.  A chill went through everyone's
body when they heard it.  Legolas, Aragorn and Gimli raced inside.
Legolas got there first and found her crumpled body.  Her hair spread
out behind her like a golden banner and blood marked her nose, ears
and eyes.  

No one else approached when Legolas scooped her up to see if her
heart still beat.  "She still lives what happened? Does anyone
know?"  

owyn told him what she saw.  "She screamed out then clutched her
stomach falling to the ground.  No one else was even near her."  

Buffy's opened her eyes when he wiped the blood away.  "Legolas, I
have damned us both but I couldn't chance it.  I couldn't trust them
anymore to protect him, so I did."  Tears poured down her face
washing away the blood. Picking her up, he carried her away from the
crowd, to privacy.

"I shared my magic with Gandy to protect him, Pippin and all of
Gondor until we could get there.  There is always a price but they
took more than was their right, damn them," Buffy cursed angrily.  

"Please dearest, tell me what price have you paid?"  Legolas kissed
her head.  

"Children, they took my right to have children. They thought I
should be more humble and decided to teach me a lesson. If you don't
want to pledge our vows when this is through, I understand. They have
taken so much Golas that I just couldn't chance it and let them use
Gandy.  I'm sorry."  

"My pledge was to take you as you are, all that you are.  If you
thought, you needed to help Gandalf then that is what was needed. 
Always beloved remember, I believe in you."

~~~~~

The next day they rode to the encampment where the other armies
would meet before they journeyed on to Gondor. Soldiers assembled
tents and the banner of Rohan flew on the field. Legolas watched
Buffy's body became tenser with each passing hour. Looking into her
eyes, he saw bottomless pools of despair.  The closer they grew to
riding for Gondor; the air squeezed from her body.

A messenger bought Aragorn a request to go to Th‚oden's tent'  He
found Elrond waiting for him inside.  "The one we both love is
dieing.  Her life is tied to the fate of this war.  The black ships
will reach the city in two days.  You need more men. You need those
who walk the other path."  

"They are forsaken. They believe in no one, answer to no one,"
Aragorn spat in disgust. 

"The King of Gondor still holds the power of their release." Elrond
pulled out a sword.  "And£ril - Flame of the West. Forged from the
shards of Narsil."  Aragorn took it from his outstretched hands.  "It
is time for you to be become who you were born to be.  Take the Ghost
Roads, summon an army and defend your city, your world," Elrond
ordered.  "I bring hope back toMan."  

"I have kept none for me," Aragorn answered.

"Wow, what a rally charge that will be."  They hears A soft voice
filled with sarcasm coming from the tent opening.  "I know that I'm
ready to ride hell-for-leather to follow you.  Stay here with the
women and children, if that is all that you bring to the table. Or
choose to be a king, a real king with all the duty and sacrifice it
requires.  My brother-in-law and I are going to have a little talk,
I'll be waiting for you outside, Elrond."

"Keep your distance from her and may the Valar watch over you my
lord," Aragorn told Arwen's father.  

The older man looked at him in shock.  "What do you mean?  I do not
ride into war you do?"  

"Oh you will wish you were my lord, I assure you.  Good Luck."

~~~~~

"Let's walk where no one can overhear our family business, Elrond."
Buffy pulled the Lord of Rivendell behind a tent.  

"What is the meaning of this?"   

"I have a question for you Elrond. Did you love my sister?"  

"How dare you ask me that?  I love her still, Celebrian holds the
rest of my soul on the other side." His back stiffened with anger.  

"Then how, the hell, could you do that to your own daughter.  You
tried to steal her life, her destiny, from her.  You would rather
have her fade away from heartache on Valinor, than know a love like
the one you still share with my sister.  I told you before you
couldn't live her life for her.  Her path isn't yours to walk.  No
wonder Man has lost all faith in the Elves, you think you are above
them when you are not.  Do you not see what you did?  You bound her
tighter to the outcome of this war.  If she fades it will be on your
own head, you fool," Buffy yelled up at him.

"No it cannot be. It is only because she gave away her immortality
to him," Elrond protested. He didn't want to believe that his effort
to protect Arwen; may have harmed her more.  

"Look longer next time at what you were so willing to destroy,
Elrond.  I have no more time to waste on you but you had better pray
that everything comes out all right. If not, you will think losing to
Sauron little price to pay when I am through with you."  Buffy pushed
past him to go find Legolas.

~~~~~

She smiled to see Aragorn saddling up his horse with And£ril
strapped to his back and called out.  "We will be ready to ride in a
moment Striderite."  

He laughed at her as the other soldiers began to question him. 
Aragorn tried to talk Legolas and Gimli out of following him when
Buffy walked up and slapped him on the arm. 

"Get on the damn horse, Striderite.  We have ghosts to spook." 

owyn started forward but Buffy's face stopped her in her tracks.
She merely waved when they rode past.  

Buffy looked at the King, "We will see you on the battlefield my
lord.  If you hurry, I will leave some for you to kill."  

He saluted her laughing. "I will try to hurry then girl.  I can't
let you have all the glory.  Rohan will claim some for its own."

 

Chapter 23

"Who enters my lair?  Who dares?"  The Ghost King appeared in front
of them.  

"The King of Gondor," Aragorn announced proudly. 

"Gondor has no king."  Hundreds of ghosts now surrounded them.  

He drew And£ril.  "There is one now.  This blade says it so and I
say it so.  If you will help us to beat back our enemies, to save
Gondor, you can regain your honor."  

"Do you so swear?"

"I do, in this place before you and my friends."

~~~~~

They moved out and intercepted the black boats.  The ghost army
destroyed the pirates in one fell swoop.  

Legolas and Gimli once again started counting their kills.  Legolas
ran up an Oliphaunt.  Using arrows for handholds, he worked his way
up to its neck.  He cut the platform that held the riders sending
them to the ground. Shooting arrows into the creatures head, the same
way he had the cave-troll, until it died.  Sliding down the trunk, he
landed with a grin beside Gimli.  

"That only counts as one," the Dwarf shouted. 

They looked over to see Buffy running up to another Oliphaunt. She
planted her feet and grabbed its tusk causing the great creature to
stop as if it had hit a brick wall.  It flipped over landing on its
back killing all of its.  Buffy's sword made a huge arc slitting the
Oliphaunt's throat when she jumped across it.

"Now she can count all of those, even that overgrown beastie," Gimli
crowed. Legolas shook his head then headed back into the fight.  

owyn killed the Witch King then held Th‚oden as he died.  Pippin
found Merry on the field and helped him back to the city gates. 
Aragorn, Buffy, Legolas and Gimli stood outside the gates of Gondor
while the Ghost King demanded their release.  Gimli thought they
should keep them around for a while since they proved so helpful. 

"You have kept your word and are free to move on," Aragorn
gracefully bowed his head.

~~~~~

Later standing on the tower of the castle, they looked towards
Mordor.  Aragorn asked Gandalf of Frodo.  

"He is beyond my sight," the wizard sighed heavily.

"He is holding to the path but there is still a war to fight," Buffy
answered.  

"What have you seen, Imp?"  All of them turned to her waiting to
hear her answer.

"The ring is hard on him but Sam is keeping him on the path.  They
need help to get to the fires without getting caught."

"Then I say we help him.  It is time that we take the fight to the
very black doors of Mordor and knock them down," Aragorn growled,
raising And£ril above his head.

"Now that is a battle call," Buffy grinned. 

"When do we leave?  Lass, what you did to that Oliphaunt was
amazing.  I knew you were strong but not that strong."

"I wasn't Gim.  Something rushed into my body when we started to
fight and filled every inch of me.  When I ran up, I was going to
swing up but well you saw what happened."  Buffy's eyes suddenly
glazed over as if she were in a trance.  

"Buffy, beloved are you right?"  Legolas wrapped his arms around her
peering into her unblinking eyes.

"Yeah, I just had a waking dream, freaky. Talk about a major
wiggins.  We need to go now, Frodo and Sam are ready for us to make
with the door knocking."  They looked at her but her face was clear.  

"We will gather the troops and be ready to ride soon.  Will you be
all right?"  Aragorn asked.  His eyes showed his concern, he better
understood Gandalf's words about Buffy.  

"Yep, ready to rock and roll."  

"I guess that means she is ready," Legolas shrugged.

~~~~~

Sam and Frodo worked their way across the encampment in stolen Orc
armor.  Sam had won the day when he rescued Frodo from the Orcs after
the spider had stung him. 

"What made you come back, Sam?"  

"I remembered a dream where Buffy visited me.  She told me that I
would have to dig deep and never give up, that I had a warrior
inside.  After you sent me away, her words came back to me and made
me remember why I came along firstly, Mr. Frodo.  I am your protector
and my job wasn't over, Samwise Gamgee ain't a quitter, no sir Mr.
Frodo. Now we just have to get up that mountain and be rid of that
cursed ring."

"Buffy told me to call to her but I never did.  Thank goodness, I
had you to help me Sam; no one ever had a truer friend.  She is right
you are an amazing warrior and she would be proud of you." 

They continued to work their way up the mountain.



Chapter 24 
The other members of the fellowship stood outside the black gates
with the rest of the army behind them.  

Buffy felt her blood hum almost like an inch under her skin.  She
realized her fate would happen here, now.  Looking over at her loved
ones, she said a prayer of protection for them.  

"I love you guys. I will kick your asses if any of you die."  Buffy
told them just as the gates began to open, something opened inside
Buffy with each move of the gates.  

The remainder of Sauron's army stood there; her knees buckled for a
moment.  All of them ran forward, with Aragorn leading the call, not
waiting for the Orcs to attack.

Buffy moved closer and closer to the black gates her blade moved
without thought.  She walked in a trance but left no Orc alive in her
path.  The others were deep into the fighting when her body aligned
in the center of the gates.  Looking inside, she realized she could
clearly see the mountain and the eye.  It looked back at her as if it
noticed her for the first time.

Frodo and Gollum fought over the ring inside the mountain, close to
the edge of a steep cliff. Sam's words about Buffy called out to
something in Frodo's heart. "Buffy" he whispered.  

Her head swung from the eye to the mouth of the mountain.  Buffy
closed her eyes concentrating on her friend.  "Frodo listen to me. 
Just let go." 

His hands opened and Gollum fell to molten lava below.  His precious
still clutched in his hand.  When the ring hit the fires of Mordor,
the mountain shook and began to erupt.  

Buffy's focus returned to the eye. The loss of the ring weakened
Sauron but didn't destroy him, yet. Pulling air deep into her lungs,
Buffy blew it out of her mouth. Its color was scarlet, the same color
of the eye.  It felt as if she blew for years as she realized the
Powers had filled her with something else, something more.  

Will there be anything left of me when I am through.

The fighting stopped when the mountain started to shake and lava
erupted.  Aragorn and the others found themselves surrounded but all
eyes had turned to Buffy.  She floated above the ground, directly
between the gates and straight across from the eye.  Her breath was a
living flame shooting from her small body as it  hung suspended in
the air.  It seemed the very fires of Mordor came from her.  

Legolas screamed her name as Gandalf held him.  He wasn't sure who
supported whom.  Sauron's eye exploded into dust sending out a wave
of wind that washed over everything.  When it hit the Orcs, they
simply melted leaving a dark mark on the ground.  

The flame from Buffy's mouth finally stopped and her body plummeted
to the ground below.  Legolas raced to get there before she landed. 
He said every prayer he knew when he slid under her barely getting
there in time.  Her face held no color in it, as if her blood had
drained out with the flame.  

Gandalf rushed over and touched her carefully. "She is deep in the
shadow.  I know not where or if she can return." Legolas looked up
and saw tears falling down the wizard's face.

"What of Frodo and Sam, Gandalf?"  Merry quietly asked him.  

Gandalf reluctantly left Buffy's side.  "I will go for them."  He
called the eagles to him then flew off to rescue their remaining
friends.

Legolas carried Buffy to his horse but Silver moved forward.  The
golden horse demanded to carry his mistress.  Legolas didn't want to
release her but couldn't see how else to mount.  Again, Silver read
the Elf's mind and bent his front legs.  Easily settling himself and
his precious cargo, horse and Elf took off for Gondor in a full run.

Aragorn, Gimli, Merry and Pippin waited to ensure Frodo and Sam were
safe.  Gandalf plucked them from a rock then flew over the others
straight for Gondor and Buffy.

 

Chapter 25

Frodo woke to find himself in a soft bed and Gandalf sitting beside
him. "Gandalf."  

"Hello, Frodo.  I am happy to see you awake and well."  

Before the two old friends could say more, Gimli, Aragorn and the
rest of the hobbits entered the room.  Frodo and Sam smiled at each
other realizing how lucky they were to be alive.

"Where are Legolas and Buffy?"  Frodo asked.  Everyone's eyes become
sad and worried.  

"Is she with him?  Is Buffy healing Legolas' injures?"  

"No Frodo, it is the lassy, she will not wake. The Elf won't leave
her side and he barely eats or drinks.  Stubborn fool."  Tears formed
in Gimli's eyes and he looked away with a loud sniff.

"What happened to her?  She was there I know it, she helped us," he
protested.  

"She helped all of us, Frodo, in her own unique way.  When you
destroyed the ring, it weakened Sauron but he was still alive.  Buffy
destroyed him using her magic.  She told me there was always a price
to pay but I fear the price for her bravery," Gandalf told him with
tear bright eyes

~~~~

Legolas sat by Buffy's bed, her hand held tightly in his.  

"She is stronger than you think Prince of Mirkwood," a voice said,
from the door. 

He looked up but didn't stand when Galadriel and Celeborn entered
the room.  They moved to the other side of the bed.  Galadriel
brushed Buffy's hair back from her face.  "She came back before from
a great distance.  My daughter will come back to us again." Celeborn
said nothing just watched his daughter's pale face.

Frodo knocked softly on the door.  "Enter" He walked in his eyes
glued to the tiny body on the bed. 

 "We are happy to see you well, Frodo Baggins."  

"Lady, I didn't see you there, how is Buffy? She will be all right
won't she?" 

"My daughter never liked being in bed.  She will be up in time to
see Ellesser crowned, Gondor's King," Celeborn answered him. 

"She will wake up, she will." Legolas chanted the words, like a
prayer.  

Galadriel slipped the ring from her finger putting it on Buffy's. 
"Buffy you now own the Elven ring of power, as is your right.  Open
your eyes little one so you can tell me how you will make the Elves
jump now that you are their Queen."

The ring flared to life on Buffy's hand and washed her in a rainbow
of colors when it caught the light. Her hand moved causing her loved
ones to hold their breaths hoping she would wake up.  Buffy's eyelids
fluttered, barely opening only to close again.  

"She is only sleeping now.  She is back from the shadows." 
Galadriel told them.  

"We will leave you both to rest.  When she awakens for longer we
will return."  Galadriel patted Legolas' shoulder.

He climbed into bed and held her close.  Buffy sighed, "I love you,
Golas. Not leaving you, not ever."  Her voice came out in small puffs
of air, when they hit him they made his spine tingle.  

Legolas' eyes widened, he could feel the magic still inside her, in
her very breath.  "Please beloved rest, I need to go fetch Gandalf."

"Yes, get Gandy."  Buffy sighed softly then burrowed further under
the covers.  

The same feelings danced across his skin, thick in the air.  Legolas
ran out the door nearly knocking over the wizard.  "Gandalf come
quick, it is Buffy.  The magic is still in her, in her every breath,
in the air.  Hurry, I fear for her life."

They rushed into the room.  Gandalf faltered when he walked inside. 
Magic hovered over her body like a cloud, causing the air to feel
thick and heavy.  His wizard's eyes could see the magic like a living
being.  Gandalf turned to the blonde Elf.  "Run get her parents.  I
may need their aid."

Legolas was out the door as Gandalf approached the bed.  He put his
hand out feeling the magic surrounding Buffy.  He could not decide if
it protected her or meant to harm her.  Gandalf had never felt so
much power before.  

~~~~~

The door slammed open as Legolas, Galadriel, Celebron, Aragorn and
Arwen entered the room.  

"The ring remove the ring from her hand.  She wears Nenya, the Ring
of Adamant."  Galadriel moved quickly into the room.  

Gandalf bent to remove the ring but pulled back his hand in pain. 
Thorns resembling silver needles stuck out of his hand.  "By the
Valar, what is this?"

Galadriel removed the thorns carefully.  "I do not know.  It never
reacted that way while it remained on my hand all these years.  It
seems bonded to her now, locked-in place."

"Gandalf look at you own ring," Celebron said.  

Gandalf's ring had previously held a large ruby on a gold band, now
no stone remained.  A band with the emblem for fire stood where the
stone once rested.  

"Arwen, fetch your father quickly.  He holds the other original ring
of power.  Imp can you hear me? Please wake up and talk to me."

"Gandy, what is wrong?  Mother, Poppy when did you get here?" 

"Imp, can you remember what happened to you?"

"I remember the fight and feeling of boiling alive from the inside
out.  Then falling forever into the center of Middle Earth then being
held in a cool place, it was safe, familiar, like home. I had to swim
hard to get back to the top again.  What is - oh?"

"What do you see daughter?"  Celebron moved closer to the bed
touching her carefully.

"It is a whisper in my mind.  Telling me what has happened not just
here but everywhere.  I know what is happening right now in
Lothlorien.  Something or someone answered my questions before I even
asked them.  It answered for everything, everywhere. What is
happening to me?"

"Gandalf, it cannot be.  She has done enough and there is no longer
a war to fight.  Why would they do this to her?"  Galadriel refused
to believe what she knew had happened.

"No mother, they will never let me go, not until I pass over but I
am stubborn.  I have paid my debt to them and I say no more.  I plan
to watch Gondor get its rightful King, dance at my niece's wedding
and then have one of my own.  Golas and I are going to have a good
life.  The Powers are not going to mess with me any more."

Elrond entered the room, a frown of concern on his face.  "Gandalf,
Arwen told me what has occurred. My ring has changed as well and no
longer holds any power just a symbol of water.  What does this mean?"

"There is only one ring of power now.  Elrond, old friend, meet our
new queen."  He waved to Buffy on the bed.

"What her?  But, what of her mother? How did this happen?  Are you
sure?"

"Afraid I will make you do something you don't want?  Like I don't
know, say apologize to certain people, nope, not going to do it.  As
far as I am concerned, no one needs to know that anyone's status has
changed.  I plan to spend years making love with my husband after he
marries me properly, of course."

 

Chapter 26

Gondor crowned Aragorn King and he married Arwen.  They had their
son and several daughters, as well. 

Frodo never recovered from wearing the ring.  He continued to have
health problems.  The older Elves decided to leave for Valinor;
Gandalf, Bilbo and Frodo went with them.  

Buffy and Legolas stayed after their own glorious wedding in
Mirkwood.  They split their time between Mirkwood, Lothlorien and
Gondor.  They remained on Middle Earth with Aragorn, now known as
Ellesser, until his death.

Legolas no longer wanted to remain after his friend's passing. 
Buffy, Legolas and Gimli boarded a boat for Valinor.

They had celebrated 1500 years of wedded bliss.  When they finally
made there home on the Elven Island they found a different
happiness.  

Buffy was happy to see her parent and Gandalf.  Sadly, Bilbo and
Frodo had passed on to the other side.  Her parents lasted another
two hundred years.  Celebron went first then Galadriel chose to fade
and joined her mate after telling her daughter good-bye. Gandalf
joined them fifty years later, Gimli not long after that. The two old
friends seemed forever tied.

Buffy and Legolas held on to each other tightly loving through the
sorrow of their friends and families passing.  Legolas died 250 years
later in a freak accident. He walked along the cliffs one morning and
the cliff gave away, he fell to the rocks below.  Elves could live
forever unless mortally wounded then they faded like any mortal
creature.

Buffy looked for him and found his broken body.  Her scream caused
another large piece of the cliff to fall away.  She had trained her
mind over the years to muffle out the Earth's voice.  If she had only
listened, she would have been able to find him in time to save him. 
She carried his broken body back to the home they had shared these
past five hundred years.

She cleaned and dressed his body laying him carefully to rest. 
Buffy prepared herself to fade and join her mate and family on the
other side.  She readied herself but when she tried, nothing
happened, her anger shook the earth itself.  That night, an island
far across the seas slid under the blue waters to never again be
found.

Buffy took each of her treasures from her family and friends.  She
had their favorite weapons, which would show up; at her door, some
morning letting her know the last of their line had passed. 

She had Aragorn's sword - And£ril, Legolas' daggers, Gimli's ax,
Gandalf's sword and staff, and Legolas and Haldir's bows. She pulled
on the magic inside her and shaped them into one weapon - a sword. 
It stood almost as tall as her and glowed with an unnatural light. 
The handle held a large ruby, the color of Sauron's eye. 

She smiled as she dressed in her finest clothes and jewelry.  Buffy
wore a beautiful dress that was the white of an opal.  The cloth
sparkled with diamonds that changed colors when she moved.  She
placed her mother's silver and gold crown on her head and pinned her
pearl brooch to her breast.  Arwen's necklace graced her neck and on
her right hand Nenya, remained. Her wedding band circled her left
finger.  Shaped like an arrow bent round her finger and in its center
a large emerald that matched the green of her eyes.

Buffy moved to a clearing then pulled again on her connection.  A
small hill grew and hollowed out creating a bower with an opening for
sunlight or moonlight remaining. A huge slab worked its way up from
the ground.  She blew on it until it gleamed smooth as glass.  She
placed a box with her most precious treasures inside.  Lying down on
the slab, Buffy held the sword across her body.  She blew out her
breath putting herself into a deep sleep and creating a ward on the
bower protecting her.  No one could enter although they could peer
into the opening and see her lying there unchanged. 

~~~~~

Buffy vowed not to wake until the Powers allowed her to join her
mate.  While she slept, Middle Earth changed even more than Man knew.
Buffy didn't know she had caused the changes.  She would awaken
someday to set right the wrongs in this new world.

 

~ But that is another story ~