basically-baggins

[basically-baggins]

For The Love of a King - Aragorn x OC (Part 14)

Description: All her life, Lyra Greenleaf has struggled with her identity. Being the adopted daughter of the woodland King came with a lot of questions and restrictions, which have naturally caused her to rebel. Finally, she's out on her own, with her brother watching her every move. When she decides to join him on a life changing quest to destroy a ring, it might not have been the best idea. But it might just lead her to discover exactly who she is, perhaps with a certain heir to the throne of Gondor.

Warning: There are some details of harassment later in this chapter if you don't want to read about that.

________

He Fell

At the break of dawn, they were all setting off again. Lyra went over to Dante, who hadn't wandered too far and grabbed his reins and began to lead him on foot.

Waking up in Aragorn's arms was pleasant, and now that it had happened more than once, she tried not to think about it too much or she would surely start to get used to it. She was beginning to think that perhaps Gandalf was right after all.

If the feeling she got whenever she was around him was anything to go by. Was it love? She wasn't sure. She never expected it would feel so strange.

And this morning, when she was woken by him, it gave her a feeling she couldn't possibly begin to describe.

She was brought out of her thoughts by Eowyn, who had fallen into step with her, her own horse trailing behind.

"Good morning, Lyra."

"Hello, Eowyn."

"I do believe it would be a shame for the two of us to not have a conversation."

"I'd like that."

"Your horse is beautiful. What is his name?".

She smiled slightly. "This is Dante. It's a... long story with him."

With a hum, Eowyn replied softly. "I think all the best horses do."

After a moment of comfortable silence between them, the shield maiden spoke again.

"May I ask about the jewel around your neck?".

She nodded. "It was given to me as a gift, but according to them it is a meant to be a symbol of my heart. It is mine to give to whomever I deem worthy of it. But I am still unsure of what that means, so for now it's just a token."

Eowyn glanced at her. "Lord Aragorn."

Lyra stopped in her tracks, then looked at the blonde woman beside her. "What?".

"Well, not that it is my place to say, but you will give it to him undoubtedly. Your heart, I mean."

She sighed, looking ahead at the front of the line where Aragorn rode with King Theoden, Legolas, Gimli, and some of the guards.

"That is not as easy as one would think."

"But you love him. Do you not?".

"I... think I'm starting to."

Eowyn chuckled, then patted her arm warmly. "I wouldn't worry, Lyra. With the way he looks at you, I don't doubt he feels the same."

She furrowed her eyebrows. "How do you know?".

"Well, I've noticed him looking back at you every now and again to make sure you are still here. I do not suspect he is keeping an eye on anybody else the same way."

She supposed Eowyn made a good point, but it did nothing to soothe her. She hadn't even begun to think about whether he may have the same feelings for her.

The two women stopped upon hearing screaming up ahead. Lyra frowned, wondering what was going on as Aragorn came running back down the hill towards Theoden.

"What is it? What do you see?".

"Warg! We are under attack!".

The people around them began to panic and Eowyn attempted to settle them.

"Get them out of here!" Theoden ordered the women.

Lyra frowned, grabbing Aragorn's sleeve before he could take the reins of his horse. "Aragorn!".

"Go with Eowyn. Help lead the people to Helm's Deep."

"No! I'm coming with you."

"Lyra, this is not a negotiation. Go, now."

She looked at him, daring to challenge him. "If you're going, I'm going with you. I won't let you leave without me."

He sighed, muttering something too quiet for her to hear. Knowing he didn't have time to argue with her, he relented. "Come."

He jumped up on to his horse and Lyra grinned as she jumped up on to Dante. Although, Aragorn's face told her this conversation was to be continued later.

She saw Gimli riding Arod, grumbling some kind of commands as they rode on after Theoden.

Once at the top of the hill, Lyra saw the carnage of the battle between warg scouts, guards and Legolas. And she charged in right after Aragorn, hanging on to Dante's reins while slashing at any orcs and wargs with all her might.

She came face to face with a lone warg, whose rider had been killed already. Kicking Dante into action, she charged forward, swinging her sword low enough to attack the menacing creature.

Dante held his own well, kicking at and intimidating the beast. The warg jumped at the horse, causing him to buck on to his hind legs. Lyra did her best to hold on, but she lost her balance and fell off, landing under the fight between the stallion and the warg.

She screamed as the beast snapped at her. Dante let out a loud, intimidating bray and stood his ground, standing over Lyra to protect her while avoiding stepping on her.

"Lyra!".

Legolas came running to her aid, firing arrows at the wargs until it went down. Dante remained as he was, standing over her. The elf helped her up and she stood in front of him while he picked up her sword and handed it back to her.

She sighed. "Thank you."

"Always." He replied. "It's not over yet. Come on."

She followed after, helping him take down a few more orcs before the battle began to settle down. The remaining wargs were chased away. Lyra couldn't help but look at all the bodies leftover. They'd lost so many.

"Aragorn!". She heard Gimli shout, catching her attention. She looked up, following her brother over to the dwarf.

"Aragorn?".

She frowned, wondering where he was.

To her left, she heard a cackle and looked over to see an orc choking on his own blood. Still, he was laughing.

Legolas and Gimli approached it, the dwarf shoving his axe in its face. "Tell me what happened and I'll ease your passing."

"He's... dead." It coughed. "He took a little tumble off the cliff."

Lyra felt her heart in her throat as she looked over at the cliff side. Legolas grabbed the orc by its shoulders. "You lie!".

Though, it was too late for it had succumbed to its wounds.

She followed Theoden over the edge to look down at the fast flowing river at the bottom, soon being joined by Legolas and Gimli. There was no sign of Aragorn.

She felt a lump growing in her throat and she swallowed thickly.

"Get the wounded on horses." Theoden called. "The wolves of Isengard will return. Leave the dead."

Legolas looked at the king in disbelief, and the older man turned to meet his gaze. "Come."

At the mention of horses, Lyra turned to look for Dante only to find him not there either. She gasped. "Dante?".

"Legolas, where is he?".

The elf looked around for a moment in search of the horse. "I do not know."

Gimli also appeared to have a glance around. "Come on, lass. We best catch up."

Walking slightly behind, she checked to see if Scout was still there and he was. Seeming to sense her sadness, he nuzzled into her.

It wasn't long before they made it to Helm's Deep with the head guards shouting to make way for the king. They were greeted at the gate by Eowyn.

"So few. So few of you have returned." Her gaze turned to Lyra as she jumped down from behind Legolas.

"Lord Aragorn... where is he, Lyra?".

Gimli stood at the red head's side and said the words she could not bring herself to say.

"He fell, my lady."

It felt more real when he spoke. Everything around her seemed to slow down, and she could no longer hear what anybody was saying. She felt as though she was under water.

Instead of letting her sadness take over, she helped lead the women and children of Rohan into the caves beneath the old fortress. She hoped it was strong enough to last through the night. She worried they did not have enough men.

"My lady?". An unfamiliar voice spoke up nearby her. She turned her head to see someone she recognised to be one of Theoden's guards. She did not know his name, but she remembered his face as one of the men who stared at her.

"Yes?".

"Allow me to escort you to the caves."

"Oh...". She paused. "No, I won't be joining the women and children."

The man tilted his head. "But battle is almost upon us. It would be most advised that you do, for your safety."

"I don't think so. What is your name?".

"Forgive me, my lady. My name is Thain."

There was something about him that didn't feel right, and so she decided to trust her gut. "Well, Thain, let me find my brother first."

Under no circumstance was she going to end up in that cave, but she played along. "Who is your brother?".

"Legolas."

Lyra watched the guard's face change at the mention of the woodland prince. "You mean... the elf?".

She nodded. "Yes. I must speak with him. Do you know where he is?".

He cleared his throat, then nodded. "Yes. Allow me to walk with you."

She felt uneasy about that, but allowed it in the hopes that the new information of who her brother was would be enough to make him back off. It wasn't fair for her to judge someone so quickly, but her bad feeling only grew the more she walked with him.

"Excuse my intrusive observation, but you do not resemble an elf, though if I may say your beauty could rival that of one."

She sighed quietly. "No, I am not an elf. But Legolas remains my brother all the same. I was raised in Mirkwood by King Thranduil."

"You are very beautiful, you know."

The change of conversation caught her off guard and she didn't like that he was getting closer to her. "Thank you." She replied awkwardly, unsure of what else to say.

When he reached out for her, she moved away from him. "Please don't touch me."

His expression softened, but not in the way Aragorn's did. It was more of a disappointment.

"What's the matter, my lady? I don't mean any harm. I'm simply complimenting you."

"I do not think it is appropriate for you to touch me, Thain."

"Well, you can hardly blame me. It would be a waste not to touch something so beautiful as you. If only to prove that you are real."

She swallowed thickly. "I think I can find Legolas from here by myself."

To Lyra's relief, they were interrupted when a crowd began to gather around them. And while it distracted Thain, she slipped away from him in time for her to cross paths with Gimli. Though it seemed he was he was not stopping as he pushed through the crowd. She followed after him.

"He's alive!". A someone shouted.

"Where is he? Get out of the way! I'm going to kill him!".

Pushing her way through, she came to a holt when she saw, in front of her eyes, Aragorn alive. And not only that, but he had jumped down from a familiar blue roan stallion.

She gasped.

"You are the luckiest, the canniest, and the most reckless man I ever knew." Gimli cried, embracing his friend. "Bless you, laddie."

Aragorn only accepted it for a moment before pulling back. "Gimli, where is the king?".

He nodded towards the keep, and that's when stormy eyes met mossy green ones. Lyra approached him.

"You brought Dante back."

He hums. "No. It would be more accurate to say he brought me back."

"And he let you ride him?". She was bewildered, but Aragorn shrugged. "We seemed to have a common interest."

"Which is?".

He gave her a small smile before breezing past her. "I must speak with Theoden."

The two of them were stopped at the great hall by Legolas, who appeared to be waiting there for them.

"You are late."

Aragorn tilted his head.

"You look terrible." The elf spoke bluntly to the ranger, who simply smiled in amusement.

Lyra followed behind him as he pushed the double doors open at the same time, and entered the great hall of Helm's Deep, where King Theoden was planning out the battle with his men.

She stood by Legolas as Aragorn spoke of the army he saw on his way here.

"A great host, you say?".

"All Isengard is emptied."

"How many?"

"Ten thousand strong, at least."

Lyra knew now, without a doubt, they did not have enough men.

"Ten thousand?".

"It is an army bred for a single purpose: to destroy the world of men. They will be here by nightfall."

Theoden walked away from them, seemingly with no hesitation. "Let them come."

__________

[basically-baggins]

For The Love of a King - Aragorn x OC (Part 13)

Description: All her life, Lyra Greenleaf has struggled with her identity. Being the adopted daughter of the woodland King came with a lot of questions and restrictions, which have naturally caused her to rebel. Finally, she's out on her own, with her brother watching her every move. When she decides to join him on a life changing quest to destroy a ring, it might not have been the best idea. But it might just lead her to discover exactly who she is, perhaps with a certain heir to the throne of Gondor.

__________

Journey To Helm's Deep

Lyra was helping an older woman who had dropped a wicker basket in the haste of leaving Edoras.

"Thank you, dear."

She smiled politely "You're welcome."

"Lyra."

She looked over to see her brother approaching her. "Come on. We're leaving soon."

She followed him to the stables and went to get Dante. Scout was sitting on her shoulders like a scarf. Legolas held the gate open for her as she hopped up on to the horse.

"Where is everybody else?".

"They are waiting."

"Legolas, how far is Helm's Deep?".

"It's a day's journey, but with all the people of Edoras, it will most likely take longer."

She nodded, looking down at him. He smiled slightly "You have changed, sister."

She tilted her head "How so?".

"It is a compliment, Lyra. Ada would be proud of you."

She smiled back at him "Thank you."

She guided Dante out of the stables while Legolas collected Arod, and they both rode out together to find Aragorn and Gimli.

They'd been travelling for a few hours by the time the sun was high in the sky. Lyra rode next to Aragorn. In front of them, Eowyn was leading a smaller horse on foot that was given to Gimli, and Legolas was far ahead as a lookout.

"It's true, you don't see many dwarf women. In fact, they are so alike in voice and appearance that they're often mistaken for dwarf men."

Lyra rolled her eyes fondly while Eowyn looked back at Aragorn. He motioned with his hand, whispering "It's the beards."

"This, in turn, has given rise to the belief that there are no dwarf women and that dwarves just spring out of holes in the ground."

Eowyn laughed softly.

"Which is, of course, ridiculous."

The dwarf let out a cry as his horse lurched forward, sending him flying. Lyra giggled, although she was concerned for her friend "Gimli!".

Eowyn ran to help him, still laughing.

"It's alright. Nobody panic. That was deliberate. It was deliberate."

Lyra shook her head, sharing an amused look with the man beside her. Theoden appeared at the other side of him, riding his own horse.

"I haven't seen my niece smile for a long time. She was a girl when they brought her father back dead, cut down by orcs. She watched her mother succumb to grief. Then, she was left alone to tend her king in growing fear; doomed to wait upon an old man who should have loved her as a father."

The red head frowned sympathetically.

Later in the day, the king called to stop for rest, sensing the exhaustion of his people. Lyra couldn't see her brother anywhere, so she was tending to Dante near Aragorn, who was sitting on the ground sharpening his sword.

She looked up when she heard Eowyn. The blonde woman walked over to them carrying a pot of something hot.

"I made some stew. It isn't much, but it's hot."

She gave a wooden bowl to Aragorn, and he nodded in thanks.

"Lyra, would you like some?".

"Oh... no, I'm fine. Thank you, Eowyn."

Aragorn took a bite, then seemed to freeze. The women watched him for a moment.

"It's good."

"Really?".

Eowyn turned to leave, seemingly pleased, and Lyra rose her eyebrows as the ranger began to empty the bowl into the grass, only for the shield maiden to turn back around. The hot liquid spilled, burning his thigh through his clothes. Lyra covered her laugh with a cough as he played it off. He glared at her, and she had to turn her attention back to Dante to stop herself from laughing.

"My uncle told me a strange thing. He said that you rode to war with Thengel, my grandfather. But he must be mistaken."

"King Theoden has a good memory. He was only a small child at the time."

"Then you must be at least sixty."

Once she had composed herself, Lyra joined in the conversation. She motioned with her hand. "Try older."

The blonde woman looked bewildered. "Seventy? But you cannot be eighty!".

Finally, he sighed. "Eighty-seven."

"You are one of the Dunedain. A descendant of Numenor, blessed with long life. It was said that your race has passed into legend."

Aragorn nodded. "There are few of us left. The northern kingdom was destroyed long ago."

"I'm sorry... please, eat."

Lyra bit her lip to keep herself from smiling. When Eowyn left, she opened her mouth to speak only for Aragorn to raise his hand, silencing her.

"Not a word."

She giggled, breathing out a sigh as she patted his shoulder. "Are you alright?".

He hums "Yes."

He emptied the rest of the stew into the grass before standing up. Motioning for her to follow, he said. "Come. We should take this time to practice."

She led her horse, following him to an open space away from everyone. Scout crawled out from her cloak, then used her to climb up on to Dante. The horse huffed, but allowed it.

"Draw your sword, brennil nîn."

She did as told. Since Aragorn started teaching her, she'd improved greatly. But her moves could be quicker, which was what he encouraged her to work on.

Neither of them held back. He wasn't making it easier for her, but every time their swords met, his movements became sharper. Lyra struggled a little to keep up.

She spun out of the way of a quick blow to the arm, narrowly avoiding his blade before thrusting her sword forward, clashing with his over and over again.

"Better. Again."

She breathed out heavily, reaching her limit as her arm got too tired to continue. "Wait. Time out."

He sighed, stopping and letting his sword fall by his side. "Lyra, the enemy will not wait for you. You have to be alert and ready for anything."

"I know."

"Why do you hesitate?".

"Orcs have an unfair advantage. I cannot overpower them physically."

"Then you fight smarter, not harder. Use their weakness against them. It is important for you to remember that you will always be smarter than an orc, and that is what you have to overpower them with."

She sighed quietly, about to sheathe her sword when he stopped her.

"We're not done."

"Oh-".

His expression softened for a moment with amusement before speaking. "Draw your sword. I would not risk asking for a time out again."

The two of them sparred for hours together until the sun set. With Aragorn's corrections and pointers, she quickly improved with each move. And they didn't stop until he was satisfied.

Lyra was exhausted by the time they were finished, and while Aragorn took his leave, she retreated to her animals. Dante had wandered off a little, and she found Scout still resting on his back. When the pine marten saw her, he sat up and let out a squeak. She smiled, letting him climb up her arm so that he could nestle in under the hood of her cloak.

"Dante." She said softly, gaining the horse's attention. "Stay close."

There was a part of her that was afraid of him running away during the night, never to be seen again. Despite him being a wild horse, she had grown to rely on him, and in truth, he'd never let her down thus far. But still, there was always the possibility.

She patted his neck a few times before wandering over to somewhere to rest for the night. As she did so, her eyes naturally glanced at all the groups of people doing the same thing. It seemed as though they'd all formed little groups, and she stopped walking briefly at the sight of a particular family.

She watched a mother settle her two children down to sleep. She held a little girl in her arms as a slightly older boy sat close to her. She was singing to them in a soft, tender tone.

Lyra frowned as she watched them.

When she felt a hand on her shoulder, she jumped slightly. Turning her head, she found Aragorn. He spared a glance at the family she was looking at before his eyes met hers again.

"Come. You should rest."

He spoke softly so that she would understand. She nodded. "I was just...". She trailed off.

He tilted his head.

"Trying to find Legolas." She finished, though now not far from the truth since she didn't know where her brother was.

"He insisted on first watch."

She hums, not doubting it.

He motioned for her to follow him and she did.

Some of the King's guards appeared to be unable to avert their eyes when she passed by them. Aragorn led her to a spot under a tree, and while she settled down beside him, he took out his pipe and raised it to his lips.

"Aragorn."

"Hm?".

"Why do they stare?".

He glanced at her for a moment, then the corner of his lips quirked up into a small smile. "I am sure you are not so blind as to not see why."

At her furrowed eyebrows, he chuckled softly. "I would say if you were the sun, they would continue to stare even though they'd go blind, for I believe they have not seen anything so ravishing."

"Oh-." Her cheeks turned a light shade of pink, though it was disguised by the darkness of the night. Sitting up a little, she looked away from him, focusing her gaze on something that wasn't there.

"Well, they could come and talk to me instead of watching me from a distance."

He hums. "Most men would not approach a woman they find to be attractive."

"Why not?".

He simply shrugged his shoulder, putting the pipe back to his lips as his eyes glanced over at some of the men in question. No longer staring, but preparing to sleep. "It is not my place to speak for others on this matter, but men are fragile creatures. Some can not put aside their ego to admit what they feel while others fight with everything they have to protect those they love."

She hums. "Which one are you?".

He chuckled. "I do believe that is not for me to decide."

Lyra was tempted to move closer to him, but she was unsure of how he would react. She feared his rejection, although he had never refused her close proximity before. He didn't brush her hand off whenever she had to grip on to him, nor did he tell her to move whenever she had shared a quiet moment with him. In fact, he had invited her into most of those himself. So, perhaps he wouldn't mind if she moved closer. But it wasn't enough for her to do so.

He looked at her, tilting his head as he saw something was on her mind. "Lyra." He spoke, bringing her back to him. "What troubles you?".

She sighed.

He reached for her hand, only for her to flinch in response. He frowned. "Why do you do that?" He asked softly.

"What?".

"Do not think I haven't noticed. You flinch at the slightest touch."

She shrugged. "I do not know."

Gently, he took her hand in his and rubbed his thumb over the back of it. "Do you not trust me?".

"Of course I trust you. It is because I trust you that I hesitate."

Letting go of her hand, instead he raised his hand to her jaw and made her look at him. "Lyra, you do not have to hesitate."

She frowned. "I am lost, Aragorn. I have no choice but to put my trust in you. It scares me, how am I to know if it is right or wrong?".

His thumb stroked her soft cheek, catching a stray tear that fell. "It is a privilege to have your trust. I do not take it for granted."

She tilted her head. "Why do you say that?".

"It is the truth."

To her surprise, he moved closer to her and let his arm fall around her. She sighed with content before resting her head on his shoulder.

"Sleep, Lyra." He whispered, stroking her arm with his finger.

_________

[basically-baggins]

For The Love of a King - Aragorn x OC (Part 12)

Description: All her life, Lyra Greenleaf has struggled with her identity. Being the adopted daughter of the woodland King came with a lot of questions and restrictions, which have naturally caused her to rebel. Finally, she's out on her own, with her brother watching her every move. When she decides to join him on a life changing quest to destroy a ring, it might not have been the best idea. But it might just lead her to discover exactly who she is, perhaps with a certain heir to the throne of Gondor.

_________

Rohan

On horseback, they rode on to Edoras the next day.

"Be careful what you say. Do not look for welcome here." Gandalf warned. The flag of Rohan blew past them on the way in, giving Lyra an eerie feeling. She rode on Dante beside Legolas and Gimli.

"You'll find more cheer in a graveyard." Gimli commented.

She wasn't fond of the stares they were getting, but she understood the weariness. There was a lack of hope in the air, a feeling of general sickness that made Lyra feel sad for the people of Rohan. It was like a ghost town despite there being lots of people around them.

When they reached the doors of Theoden's hall, they were stopped by the head guard.

"I cannot allow you before Theoden king so armed, Gandalf Greyhame, by order of Grima Wormtongue."

The name left a nasty feeling in her stomach, but when Gandalf motioned for them to hand over their weapons, Lyra did as told. She handed over her sword, and when Aragorn was done he leaned into her, handing her a spare dagger. "Keep it on you. Do not part with it." She looked at him and he gave her a meaningful look. She nodded, taking the dagger and hiding it deep in her dark red cloak.

"Your staff."

"Hm? Oh. You would not part an old man from his walking stick."

The wizard gave Lyra a subtle wink as she stood closest to him, making her smile. He held his arm out for her take. "Lyra, you wouldn't mind helping me, would you?".

Catching on to his act, she played along and took his arm. "Of course not."

They entered through the doors, which were promptly locked behind them as they walked towards the throne where a withered old man sat with a slimy, greasy man at his side, which Lyra presumed was Grima.

He whispered something to the king before they reached them. Lyra noticed a group of men walking at the other side of the room, watching their every move. Some were eyeing her specifically, which her brother noticed and stayed close to her, blocking their view of her. He sent them all death glares as did Gimli.

"The courtesy of your hall is somewhat lessened of late, Theoden King."

"Why should I... welcome you, Gandalf Stormcrow?".

"A just question, my liege." Grima stood to address their arrival. "Late is the hour in which this conjurer chooses to appear. Lathspell I name him. Ill news is an ill guest."

"Be silent! Keep your forked tongue behind your teeth." Gandalf commanded. "I have not passed through fire and death to bandy crooked words with a witless worm."

Lyra would've laughed if not for the uncomfortable feeling that washed over her, giving her chills. She stayed close to Legolas, not liking the eyes on her.

"His staff. I told you to take the wizard's staff!".

This seemed to activate the guards and they moved to attack them. Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli held their own pretty well by hand. But Lyra was glad for the dagger Aragorn gave her. She whipped it out, slashing at the guards trying to come near her.

As they fought, Gandalf addressed the king, trying to get through to Theoden.

"Theoden, son of Thengel, too long have you sat in the shadows."

The rest of them took down the guards quite quickly, but while Lyra was distracted, one of them grabbed a hold of her and she struggled against him.

She gritted her teeth "Get your hands off me."

She was more worried about Scout being squished than anything. But he came to her rescue and bit the guard on the nose, making him let go of Lyra and bend over in pain.

She smiled "Thank you, my friend."

As the last of the guards were beaten, Gimli stood on Grima after catching him trying to squirm away.

"I would stay still if I were you."

Gandalf's loud voice echoed around the room as the fighting came to a holt. Still feeling uncomfortable, Lyra moved closer to Aragorn who was now the closest to her. He, too, had noticed the men in the room staring at her and he subtly let his hand rest on the small of her back, providing a feeling of safety.

"Hearken to me! I release you from the spell."

Theoden began to cackle "You have no power here, Gandalf the Grey."

Lyra doubted that very much.

The wizard let his grey cloak fall to the ground, revealing the white robes underneath.

"I will draw you, Saruman, as poison is drawn from a wound!".

As Theoden groaned, a young blonde woman came running in. She went to run to the king, but Aragorn leant forward to stop her. "Wait."

He had let go of Lyra to do so, but she still remained at his side.

Saruman's voice began to speak through Theoden. "If I go, Theoden dies."

"You did not kill me. You will not kill him."

"Rohan is mine."

"Be gone!".

Gandalf's power knocked him back and the room went silent as they waited. Then Theoden began to groan in pain, and this time Aragorn couldn't stop the woman from getting to him.

She ran to him and knelt at his side. Lyra watched, astonished as light returned to Theoden's eyes and his face cleared of wrinkles and old age. The grey of his hair and beard had also gone.

"I know your face. Eowyn."

"Gandalf?".

"Breathe the free air again, my friend."

It was like a huge sigh of relief washed over the entire room as the king got to his feet.

"Dark have been my dreams of late."

"Your fingers would remember their old strength better if they grasped your sword."

As he did so, Grima tried to get away only to draw more attention to himself. He was thrown out of the doors and rolled down every step before landing at the bottom, screaming. Theoden marched after him, anger coursing through him, which Lyra didn't blame him for. But when he raised his sword to kill the slimy man, Aragorn intervened and stopped him.

The people of Edoras had gathered and knelt before their king when he paused for a moment like he had realised something. He looked up "Where is Theodred?".

"Where is my son?".

Lyra looked at Eowyn who looked devastated by the question. A tear rolled down her cheek and she had a feeling Theodred was no longer here.

She watched the memorial from a distance, figuring it would be best to stay out the way. Aragorn and Legolas helped carry the casket, and Gimli stood beside her. Without a word, the dwarf put his hand on her forearm and gave it a comforting squeeze. She smiled appreciatively. Over the months, Gimli had become a dear friend to her.

"A few of these horsemen can't seem to keep their eyes off you, lass. Best for one of us to keep a close eye on you, I think."

She hums "Nothing I haven't dealt with before, Gimli. But thank you."

"Well, if any of them give you trouble, you let me know and I'll give em' a good scare."

She smiled slightly, patting his shoulder before listening to Eowyn sing in old Rohirrim.

After the funeral, Gandalf brought two young children in after they'd rode in on a lone horse. They were both exhausted and hungry.

"They had no warning." Eowyn, standing up after talking to them. They'd all gathered in the hall. Lyra stood next to Legolas.

"They were unarmed. Now the wild men are moving through the Westfold, burning as they go."

"This is but a taste of the terror that Saruman will unleash." Gandalf pointed out. "All the more potent for he is driven now by fear of Sauron. Ride out and meet him head-on. Draw him away from your women and children. You must fight."

Aragorn then chimed in "You have 2,000 good men riding north as we speak. Eomer is loyal to you. His men will return and fight for their king."

Theoden seemed deep in thought, Lyra wasn't entirely convinced he was listening. But he stood from his throne.

"They will be 300 leagues from here by now. Eomer cannot help us. I know what it is you want of me, but I will not bring further death to my people. I will not risk open war."

Lyra winced quietly, knowing that wasn't the answer they'd wanted from him. Though she understood.

Aragorn's voice rang through the hall, yet he spoke smoothly. It was a skill only he possessed and Lyra could do nothing but admire it. He remained sitting, taking his pipe away from his lips.

"Open war is upon you, whether you would risk it or not."

Theoden turned to look at him. "When last I looked, Theoden, not Aragorn, was king of Rohan."

Lyra looked at Gimli, who had belched in that moment from finishing a tankard of ale. It was a struggle to keep a straight face.

"Then what is the King's decision?". Gandalf asked.

The wizard clearly didn't agree with the decision that was made, but nobody argued when Theoden ordered his guards to empty the city of his people to make for Helm's Deep.

Lyra hurried after her companions as they all followed Gandalf in his irritated wake. As they made their way to the horses, Gimli grumbled about how they should fight instead of fleeing.

"He's only doing what he thinks is best for his people. Helm's Deep has saved them in the past." Aragorn replied.

"There is no way out of that ravine. Theoden is walking into a trap. He thinks he's leading them to safety."

Aragorn opened the gate for the wizard, giving him access to Shadowfax. While they conversed, Lyra wandered over to Dante, who did not look happy to be cooped up in these stables. He looked out of place compared to the other horses. He huffed at her, making her chuckle. "I know. You'll be out soon."

She was convinced more and more every day that he understood every word she said.

When Gandalf jumped up on to Shadowfax, Lyra watched as he galloped out of the stables, making Legolas and Gimli jump out of his way. She frowned.

She decided to stay with Dante for a while. He filled her with a sense of ease whenever things got overwhelming. He had a calm and gentle nature, but he was strong, stubborn, and a typical wild stallion on the outside. He seemed to have a real soft spot for Lyra, though. He'd never let anyone else ride him if that was anything to go by. Legolas could attest to that.

She was mindlessly talking to him when Aragorn came to get her. "Lyra."

She looked at him. "What is it?".

He motioned for her to follow him. "There's a horse that won't settle. Perhaps you could help."

She shrugged "I can try."

She followed him to a dark brown, almost black horse. Guards were attempting to hold him back as he struggled against them. Eowyn was there as well.

"That horse is half mad, my lord. There's nothing you can do. Leave him." Someone said.

"Aragorn, maybe he's right."

He looked at her, his expression soft. "Do not listen to him. I'd like to see something."

She sighed "Okay."

He stood back, watching as she approached the horse. She spoke to one of the guards briefly. "May I?".

"Try all you like. He hasn't been the same since he came back."

The man handed her the reins as the other guard let go, making Aragorn jump in to catch the other rope. He glared at the second guard for letting it go. But it didn't seem to matter anyway.

Lyra stood in front of the horse as he whinnied and kicked his hooves. "Shh, it's okay. Easy, boy. You're safe."

The horse huffed, slowly starting to calm down. When she was close enough, she reached out and stroked his nose. Starting with just a finger until he was calm enough.

"Shh, it's alright now. Nobody's going to hurt you."

Aragorn watched, bewildered. But he was glad that he was right and she did seem to have a special connection with animals. Still stroking the horse, she gently untied the rope that was tied to the bridle, motioning for Aragorn to do the same with the other side.

"His name is Brego." Eowyn spoke up from behind them. Lyra turned to look at her, then smiled at the horse. "Hello, Brego."

"He was my cousin's horse."

That made sense. She wasn't sure what to say, but luckily Aragorn seemed to.

"Brego. His name is kingly."

"I have heard of the magic of elves, but I did not look for it in a ranger from the North. You speak as one of their own."

Lyra eyed her wearily, feeling a strange burning sensation in her chest.

"I was raised in Rivendell... for a time." Aragorn replied.

"Aragorn, I think Brego needs to be set free."

She could see the desperation and helplessness in his eyes. He did not need to be surrounded by chaos. He nodded in agreement, saying to Eowyn. "Set this fellow free. He's seen enough of war."

With the horse calm, Aragorn motioned for Lyra to come with him, and the two left Eowyn.

As she had accidentally left Dante's gate open, he'd followed her out and when Aragorn noticed, he smiled in amusement. "I think you have a bodyguard."

"What?".

She turned, seeing her horse. "Oh." She breathed out a laugh "I must've forgotten to lock his paddock."

She grabbed his reins, walking with him. "He seems protective of you."

She smiled slightly "Well... yes. We've been through a lot together."

"How did you tame him?".

"I didn't. At least, not fully. I still wouldn't consider him a tame horse. I don't know where he came from, but one day, he showed up in Mirkwood. The elves couldn't get him under control, but I could. It took a long time for me to earn his trust. After a while, I released him because he wouldn't settle, and I felt bad keeping him when he was meant to be free. But... he just kept coming back on his own. Then, one day, he saved me, and he hasn't left my side since."

Aragorn seemed impressed, but he didn't say anything, letting her words hang in the air between them.

___________

[basically-baggins]

For The Love of a King - Aragorn x OC (Part 11)

Description: All her life, Lyra Greenleaf has struggled with her identity. Being the adopted daughter of the woodland King came with a lot of questions and restrictions, which have naturally caused her to rebel. Finally, she's out on her own, with her brother watching her every move. When she decides to join him on a life changing quest to destroy a ring, it might not have been the best idea. But it might just lead her to discover exactly who she is, perhaps with a certain heir to the throne of Gondor.

_________

The White Wizard

The old wizard looked at her, and his expression softened.

"Gandalf?".

He paused. "Yes... that was what they used to call me. Gandalf the Grey. That was my name."

Lyra cried out, unfastening the knot around her waist before running over and hugging the wizard tightly.

He let out a laugh "I am Gandalf the White. And I come back to you now... at the turn of the tide."

Now with Gandalf, they continued on through the forest. Lyra still had the horses trailing behind her, while attempting to tie a knot in the rope around her waist again. Noticing her struggle, Aragorn fell into step with her.

With a soft smile, he sighed. "I do not think that would be wise."

She pursed her lips, figuring he was probably right. "What do you suggest I do?".

Amused, he simply reached out to grab the rope attached to Arod's bridle, only for her to stop him. He chuckled. "Lyra, you can not lead two horses on foot by yourself."

She frowned. "Yes, I can."

"Let me rephrase; I do not doubt you can. But perhaps you shouldn't."

She sighed, allowing him to take the rope from her as they walked together.

"You seem to have a way with them."

She shrugged "I don't know."

"They trust you. As they should."

Up ahead, Gandalf spoke. "One stage of your journey is over. Another begins. We must travel to Edoras with all speed."

"Edoras? That is no short distance!". Gimli complained.

"We hear of trouble in Rohan." Aragorn replied. "It goes ill with the king."

"Yes, and it will not be easily cured."

"Then we have run all this way for nothing? Are we going to leave those poor hobbits here in this horrid, dark, dank, tree-infested...".

Gimli stopped abruptly upon hearing the trees groan angrily.

"I mean, charming... quite charming... forest."

Lyra put her hand on the dwarf's shoulder.

"It was more than mere chance that brought Merry and Pippin to Fangorn. A great power has been sleeping here for many long years. The coming of Merry and Pippin will be like the falling of small stones that start an avalanche in the mountains."

Aragorn looked at him, amused. "In one thing you have not changed, dear friend."

"Hm?".

"You still speak in riddles."

Lyra giggled "Well, that's a relief."

"A thing is about to happen that has not happened since the elder days... the ents are going to wake up... and find that they are strong." Gandalf smiled.

"Strong?! Oh... that's good." Gimli muttered.

"So stop your fretting, Master Dwarf."

Aragorn admired the way Lyra's expression lit up with momentary excitement. Her eyes shone with barely controlled glee.

"Marry and Pippin are quite safe. In fact, they are far safer than you are about to be." The wizard called back.

"Well, that's reassuring." Lyra winced. The ranger motioned for her to follow. "Come."

She was pretty sure she would come with Aragorn wherever he went. She wasn't sure if that was a good or bad thing yet, but it hadn't led her astray so far.

They all stood at the edge of the forest while Gandalf whistled.

Then, in the distance, a gleaming white horse came galloping towards them. Not only that, but Lyra spotted a second horse racing after it; a familiar blue roan stallion.

She gasped. "Dante!".

Gandalf smiled at her. "Shadowfax. He is the lord of all horses... and has been my friend through many dangers. I sent him to retrieve your dear Dante, Lyra."

She grinned as her horse whinnied, running full speed towards her, happy to see her again. When he was close enough, she rested her head on his nose, petting his strong neck.

"I see you have had a strong connection to nature since I've been gone, my dear."

She hums "You could say that. I don't know what it means."

He winked at her "Only time will tell."

After they all mounted the horses, they took off racing across the plains. Lyra couldn't contain her smile. It felt incredible having her best friend back after so long being without him.

By nightfall, they stopped to rest.

After having missed the old wizard, Lyra stood with him as he looked over the grasslands. She felt no need to tie her horse up with the rest of them. He wouldn't dare leave her. And he was still partly untamed.

After setting a fire, Aragorn joined them.

"The veiling shadow that glowers in the east takes shape. Sauron will suffer no rival. From the summit of Barad-dur, his eye watches ceaselessly. But he is not so mighty yet that he is above fear. Doubt ever gnaws at him. The rumor has reached him: the heir of Numenor still lives. Sauron fears you, Aragorn."

Lyra listened intently, and she found that her fear of Sauron lessened the more she learned that he himself feared something. It was a comforting thought, and it gave her courage.

"He fears what you may become, and so he'll strike hard and fast at the world of men. He will use his puppet, Saruman, to destroy Rohan. War is coming. Rohan must defend itself. And therein lies our first challenge for Rohan is weak and ready to fall. The king's mind is enslaved, it's an old device of Saruman's. His hold over king Theoden is now very strong. Sauron and Saruman are tightening the noose. But for all their cunning, we have one advantage. The ring remains hidden, and that we seek to destroy it has not yet entered their darkest dreams."

For a moment, she looked at Aragorn. He didn't look at her, but her eyes had naturally wandered to him. She wondered what he was thinking, and she thought he was acting more like a king as the days went on. She could see it even if it wasn't physical. It was in his blood. Aragorn was meant to be a king, and that was an encouraging thought. It meant she had a role to play after all. Though she still didn't know what that was.

"And so the weapon of the enemy is moving towards Mordor in the hands of a hobbit. Each day brings it closer to the fires of Mount Doom. We must now trust in Frodo. Everything depends upon speed and the secrecy of this quest. Do not regret your decision to leave him. Frodo must finish this task alone."

Lyra perked up "But he isn't alone."

"No?".

"Sam went with him." Aragorn clarified.

"Did he, indeed?" The wizard smiled "Good. Yes, very good."

Her heart told her that if two little hobbits could find their courage to complete this quest, then so could she. Enough was enough of childish fears. It was time she grew up and started proving herself worthy of a place within the fellowship.

After a while, Aragorn left them, and Lyra went to follow him when Gandalf stopped her. "Let him be with his thoughts."

She nodded "Oh... okay."

The wizard smiled softly "You are a kind soul, Lyra Greenleaf."

She looked at him, then shrugged. "Come keep an old man some company, my dear."

She did as told, following him over to the fire where they sat together. The horses were milling about, Gimli was fast asleep and Legolas was a little ways away, keeping watch.

"I know what your heart desires, Lyra."

She looked at him "Lady Galadriel said that too. It'd be nice if someone told me what that actually is."

He chuckled "I do not know what your future holds, but something tells me it'll be bigger than any of us could imagine."

She tilted her head "What does that mean?".

"You are destined for great things, but only you can decide your fate. Time will tell."

"Gandalf."

"Hm?".

She took her necklace out of her collar, letting her finger brush against Scout as he nestled in for the night. It was starting to feel comforting to have him there. "Do you know why Lady Galadriel would've given me this?".

He hums "The evenstar. That is a special gift."

"I know. I'm just not sure I'm the one who should have it."

"You're not. That is for you to decide. It is not simply a necklace. It is your heart."

"I understand that. But-".

The wizard gently interrupted her. "Do not tell me you have not noticed."

She furrowed her eyebrows "Noticed what?".

He laughed "Oh, Lyra. What a naive child you are. I have been back for less than half a day and I have noticed the way you look at him."

He nodded his head towards the ranger, who sat by himself contemplating in the dark. She frowned "I'm confused."

"Pure, unmistakable love, my dear."

Her eyes widened as a tinge of pink dusted over her cheeks ."W-What? I... I don't-".

He chuckled "You will see. All in good time."

She sighed, deciding not to argue with him. It would be pointless. While Gandalf settled down to rest, she got up and wandered over to Aragorn. Even though what the wizard said wasn't true, that didn't mean she liked seeing him sit alone in the dark. She grabbed an extra cloak and put it around his shoulders. He didn't jump, but he looked at her as she sat beside him.

"I thought you might be cold."

His expression softened "Le hannon, Lyra."

She smiled slightly "You're welcome."

He offered her his hand, and she hesitated for a moment before taking it. But it wasn't so subtle for the ever observant ranger not to notice.

"Do you feel like a king yet?".

He smiled softly "No. Am I supposed to?".

She shrugged "I don't know. But I think you already act like one."

He raised his eyebrows "Why do you think that?".

"Aragorn, this isn't a new revelation. It's in your nature to be a leader. You've led us all this far. You may as well be king of Gondor."

"Is that right?".

"Yes. But not to worry, you will always be a ranger to me."

He chuckled "That is an encouraging thought."

She smiled before going to lie down beside him.

"Lyra, it's warmer by the fire."

She nudged his arm. "I'm not leaving you."

Using her cloak as a blanket, she lay down and closed her eyes, leaving Aragorn to dwell on her words.

__________

[basically-baggins]

For The Love of a King - Aragorn x OC (Part 10)

Description: All her life, Lyra Greenleaf has struggled with her identity. Being the adopted daughter of the woodland King came with a lot of questions and restrictions, which have naturally caused her to rebel. Finally, she's out on her own, with her brother watching her every move. When she decides to join him on a life changing quest to destroy a ring, it might not have been the best idea. But it might just lead her to discover exactly who she is, perhaps with a certain heir to the throne of Gondor.

_________

Horse Masters

Lyra was a relatively fit individual. She wasn't as nimble as her brother, but she could hold her own, at least until she found herself running cross country for days. Aragorn and Legolas were way ahead of her, and Gimli was falling behind, muttering words of encouragement to himself.

"Come on, Gimli! Lyra!" Legolas yelled to them.

They had run across mountains and valleys for three days straight, following Aragorn, who was expertly tracking the orc pack they were hunting.

Aragorn knelt down after spotting something in the grass. Lyra immediately took advantage of it, taking a small break from running. Scout was hanging on under her cloak for dear life.

"Not idly do the leaves of Lorien fall."

"They may yet be alive."

"Less than a day ahead of us. Come."

As the two of them ran ahead again, Lyra heard a crash behind her. She turned in time to see Gimli fall down the hill.

"Come, Gimli! We're gaining on them!" The elf didn't seem to notice the predicament.

Lyra giggled, helping the dwarf to his feet "Are you alright, Gimli?".

He stood up, breathing heavily. "I'm wasted in cross-country, lass. We dwarves are natural sprinters."

"Is that right?".

He hums "Mhm, very dangerous over short distances."

She laughed "Come on. Keep going. We've got this."

When they stopped ahead of them, they were able to catch up.

"Rohan; home of the horse-lords. There's something strange at work here. Some evil gives speed to these creatures and sets its will against us."

Lyra huffed, sensing an air of danger around her. It was eerie and she didn't like it much.

"Legolas! What do your elf eyes see?".

"The uruks turn North East. They're taking the hobbits to Isengard!".

Aragorn sighed "Saruman."

After a while, they found a decent place to rest behind some rocks.

"We shall rest here tonight." He told them. While Lyra was silently relieved, Gimli had a rather loud outburst as he collapsed on the ground.

Legolas seemed to be at peace with keeping watch. But Aragorn insisted and he laid down to get some rest. Gimli was already fast asleep to Lyra's amusement.

Aragorn took up residence beside her as she fed Scout some berries she had left over from Lothlorien. Neither of them said anything to each other for a while. There was just a comfortable silence.

"Do you think Merry and Pippin are alright?".

He glanced at her for a moment "The uruk-hai believe they have the ring. I do not think they will get hurt."

"Unless they find out they don't have it."

Aragorn smiled in amusement "You don't have faith in them?".

"That's not what I said."

He gently nudged her arm with his own, making her roll her eyes playfully.

He looked at her for a moment, seeming to ponder something before speaking. "Lyra, can I ask you something?".

She nodded "Of course."

"What did Boromir mean?".

She tensed a little at the mention of their fallen comrade "What?".

"He apologised to you. What for?".

She sighed quietly, fidgeting with the Evenstar, catching Aragorn's eye. But he was patient, letting her gather her thoughts.

"It was... back in Lothlorien. Before I found you, I ran into Boromir. I found him after his fight with Frodo. Perhaps I was too harsh, but when he said he'd tried to take the ring from him, I... said some things I shouldn't have."

He tilted his head "And what did he say to warrant an apology to you upon his deathbed?".

She frowned "He said I didn't belong here with you all. That I was only a liability and it was a mistake to let a woman join the fellowship."

Aragorn took her hand. Despite his gentle touch, she flinched and pulled back from him. His stormy eyes met her green ones. He tilted his head but respected the boundary and didn't attempt to try again. "What is said in anger is not the truth."

She sighed, then looked at him "Why would he say it if it wasn't true? Of course it is. I don't belong here. You all know it."

"I don't know it. What I do know is that there is nothing you can do that will make you unworthy of a place amongst us. You belong here as much as the rest of us as long as you are willing to believe it."

She shrugged "I'm not sure I do."

He stood up, offering a hand to help her to her feet. She tilted her head, confused.

"Come." He said simply, motioning for her to get up. She did as told.

"Bring your sword."

Away from Legolas and Gimli, but not too far, Aragorn instructed her to draw her sword as he did.

"What are we doing?" She questioned. He didn't answer verbally, instead making a move to strike. Instinctively, she brought her sword up to meet his.

He hums "Good. Again."

She was still not quite sure what he was doing, but she played along. Every move he made, she countered it with her own. And each time their swords met, Aragorn commented on her rhythm, stance, and speed. He had his left hand partly behind his back, which y/n had noticed and realised he was purposely holding back.

Her jaw clenched and she began to fight harder against him. His smile grew with satisfaction. "Very good."

"Really?".

She'd lost focus, which he picked up on immediately and slowed back down, avoiding hurting her.

"Focus, Lyra. Move your feet."

Her hesitation caused her to get sloppy and he stopped. Putting his sword away, he walked towards her "Brennil nîn, if you get distracted like that in battle, you will get killed."

She frowned "I'm sorry."

His expression softened "I see no weakness in you. But that means nothing unless you believe it yourself."

"How can I if I can't beat you, Aragorn?".

He tilted his head "I fail to see why that is relevant."

He drew his sword again. "Start small."

"Because you're the best fighter I know. If I can't beat you, how am I supposed to get better?".

____

By the time the sun was in the sky the next day, the four of them had entered Rohan, catching up to the orc pack.

They had run across grasslands all day, Lyra staying behind with Gimli as her brother and Aragorn ran ahead as if there was nothing to it. She stopped, though, when she heard something nearby. Looking around, she saw nothing.

It sounded like thunder, but the sky had been nothing but clear all day. She could feel the ground beneath her shake.

"Lyra!".

Legolas grabbed her, shaking her out of her thoughts as he dragged her behind some rocks with Aragorn and Gimli.

"Wha-".

"Shh!".

The thunder she heard had turned out to be a stampede of horse riders, all clad in armour of Rohan. When they all rode passed them, Aragorn got up and shouted to them. Lyra frowned "Aragorn, what are you doing?".

Her voice was panicked, and he looked back at her before raising his hand to tell her it was alright.

"Riders of Rohan! What news from the Mark?".

Intimidatingly, the horsemen all turned around, led by a blond man on a white horse. Quickly, they found themselves surrounded by horses and spears. Legolas grabbed his sister's arm and pulled her behind him as Gimli held up his axe just in case.

"What business does an elf, man, woman, and a dwarf have in the Riddermark? Speak quickly!".

Gimli took it as a challenge. "Give me your name, horse-master, and I shall give you mine."

The man got off his horse, and approached them "I would cut of your head, dwarf, if it stood but a little higher from the ground."

Legolas drew an arrow at the threat. "You would die before your stroke fell."

Taking control of the situation, Aragorn lowered the arrow, putting space in between the man and his hot-headed companions before speaking calmly.

"I am Aragorn, son of Arathorn. This is Gimli, son of Gloin and Legolas and Lyra of the woodland realm. We are friends of Rohan, and of Theoden, your king."

"Theoden no longer recognises friend from foe. Not even his own kin."

The blond took his helmet off. Lyra didn't recognise him, but Aragorn clearly did. She knew of King Theoden and his kin, but she'd never ventured so far to meet them.

"Saruman has poisoned the mind of the king and claimed lordship over these lands. My company are those loyal to Rohan, and for that, we are banished. The White Wizard is cunning. He walks here and there, they say, as an old man hooded and cloaked. And everywhere, his spies slip past our nets."

"We are not spies. We track a pack of Uruk-hai westward across the plain. They have taken two of our friends captive."

"The uruks are destroyed. We slaughtered them during the night."

"But there were two hobbits. Did you see two hobbits with them?" Gimli urged.

"They would be small. Only children to your eyes."

"We left none alive."

Lyra gasped. "No."

The man's attention was drawn to her for a moment and his expression softened if only for a second. "We piled the carcasses and burned them."

He motioned to his left and in the distance they saw smoke rising from the ground.

"Dead?" Gimli questioned in disbelief.

"I am sorry." He looked at Lyra once more before whistling.

"Hasufel! Arod!".

Two horses, one brown and one white came to the front. "May these horses bear you to better fortune than their former masters. Farewell."

As he jumped back on to his own horse, he said. "Look for your friends. But do not trust to hope. It has forsaken these lands. We ride north!".

As the horsemen dispersed and went on their way, Lyra turned to the rest of her companions. "You don't really think Merry and Pippin are dead, right?".

Aragorn looked at her. "I do not believe it."

Legolas and Gimli both jumped up on to Arod, the white horse. The ranger motioned for her to hop up on to Hasufel. Giving her a hand, he helped her up before jumping up on to the saddle in front of her, taking the reins. Lyra appreciated the horses, but it did make her miss her own horse, Dante.

They rode up the burning carcasses and as they approached, Lyra almost gagged from the stench. The head of an orc, impaled on a rusty spear, awaited them. Aragorn jumped down, leaving Lyra to quickly grab the reins.

There was no sign of the two hobbits, though and a wave of sadness washed through her.

Gimli picked something out of the rubble, then held it up. "It's one of their wee belts."

Aragorn kicked a metal helmet, screaming in frustration before falling to his knees. Lyra watched it roll down the hill until she heard him speak again. She perked up a little.

"A hobbit lay here. And the other."

Intrigued, Lyra followed him.

"They crawled. Their hands were bound. Their bonds were cut. They ran over here. They were followed. The tracks lead away from the battle... into Fangorn forest."

She didn't have a clue how he knew all that, but she sighed in relief knowing her friends hadn't been brutally killed.

"Fangorn? What madness drove them in there?".

Lyra went to grab the horses reins, beginning to lead them. Then, in a fit of panic, she made sure Scout was still in her cloak. He mewled at her, making her smile.

While the boys went ahead of her, Lyra had the great idea to tie one end of a rope she had in her pack around her waist and the other end tied to Arod's reins and she grasped Hasufel's in her right hand.

Aragorn and Legolas looked back at her, then looked at each other before shaking their heads. The two seemed to be in mutual agreement to just let her do her own thing.

After a while, Aragorn knelt down to inspect the forest floor. "These are strange tracks."

"The air is so close in here."

"This forest is old. Very old. Full of memory... and anger."

Lyra paused, looking around as Gimli did. She could hear the trees around her creaking and groaning. Not only did it put her on edge, but the two horses behind her too. They whinnied a little, making her frown. She was starting to regret having a horse tied to her waist in the off chance that they'd flee. Hasufel and Arod were strong, but Dante was extremely loyal to her and she trusted him with her life.

Gimli raised his axe, frightened by the loud groaning.

"The trees are speaking to each other."

Lyra gasped. "The Ents!".

Legolas smiled at her, nodding. "Yes."

"Gimli!" Aragorn motioned downwards with his land. "Lower your axe."

The dwarf slowly did as told, unsure of his surroundings.

"They have feelings, my friend."

"Feelings?!".

Lyra giggled "These aren't just regular pine trees, Gimli. They're alive."

"The elves began it: waking up the trees, teaching them to speak." Legolas explained.

"Talking trees... what do trees have to talk about, hm? Except the consistency of squirrel droppings."

"Gimli! Have some respect. Ents are shepherds of the forest. They're one of the oldest creatures to exist in middle earth. They've earned their right to be here."

The dwarf looked at her, then lowered his axe entirely, muttering under his breath. She smiled, rolling her eyes.

"Aragorn." Legolas said "something's out there."

"What do you see?".

"The White Wizard approaches."

Lyra froze upon hearing this, a cold shiver running down her spine. Aragorn looked at them all.

"Do not let him speak. He will put a spell on us."

The four of them prepared their weapons.

"We must be quick."

A figure appeared in a bright white light before them. But their weapons were no match. Lyra yelped, dropping her sword as it burned her hand.

She looked up at the figure as the rest of them did.

"You are tracking the footsteps of two young hobbits."

"Where are they?".

"They passed this way the day before yesterday. They met someone they did not expect. Does that comfort you?".

The voice that spoke was familiar, but she couldn't place it.

"Who are you? Show yourself!". Aragorn demanded.

The figure came out of the light, revealing an old familiar face. Lyra's jaw dropped.

"It cannot be."

"Forgive me." Legolas and Gimli bowed. "I mistook you for Saruman."

"I am Saruman. Or... Saruman as he should've been."

Lyra's face broke out in a relieved smile "Gandalf!".

___________

[basically-baggins]

For The Love of a King - Aragorn x OC (Part 9)

Description: All her life, Lyra Greenleaf has struggled with her identity. Being the adopted daughter of the woodland King came with a lot of questions and restrictions, which have naturally caused her to rebel. Finally, she's out on her own, with her brother watching her every move. When she decides to join him on a life changing quest to destroy a ring, it might not have been the best idea. But it might just lead her to discover exactly who she is, perhaps with a certain heir to the throne of Gondor.

________

The Departure of

Boromir

At first light, the fellowship set off down the river once again. Although this time Lyra had switched boats with Sam, and now she was sitting in between Aragorn and Frodo.

"Lyra." The ranger spoke, making her look back at him. He motioned with his own oar "Slow movements. Keep the paddle steady."

"Oh-". She paused, unaware she had been doing it wrong apparently.

Patiently, he demonstrated again and she copied him. He nodded "Better."

Before long, the fellowship came across two gigantic stone statues with their hands stretched out in front of them. Which Aragorn pointed out to them.

"The Aragonath; long have I desired to look upon the kings of old. My kin."

Lyra looked up in awe, as did the others as they passed under them.

Eventually, before a waterfall they docked the boats at the side of the river and made for some rest.

"We cross the lake at nightfall. Hide the boats, and continue on foot. We approach Mordor from the North." Aragorn spoke.

Although Gimli seemed to have an issue with that "Oh, yes? Just a simple matter of finding our way through Emyn Muil, an impossible labyrinth of razor-sharp rocks? And after that, it gets even better! Festering, stinking marshland far as the eye can see."

"That is our road."

Lyra put a gentle hand on the grumpy dwarf's shoulder.

"I suggest you take some rest and recover your strength, master dwarf."

"Recover my-" Gimli grumbled under his breath, making Lyra laugh softly "I think that might be for the best." She looked at Aragorn, who gave her an appreciative smile.

As Legolas approached the ranger, Lyra stood up. She was exhausted, but she couldn't get comfortable on the rocky ground. But it wasn't until Merry asked where Frodo was that she noticed the ring bearer was missing. As did everyone else, it seemed.

She also noticed Boromir's shield abandoned against a tree "And where's Boromir?".

And then chaos ensued

The fellowship split up into small groups to look for their missing companions. And against her brother's wishes, Lyra ended up by herself in the middle of the woods. She hadn't meant to, but now it seemed she was lost. All the trees looked the same no matter what direction she tried.

She walked and walked on high alert until she heard something that made her stop in her tracks. Up ahead, she could see an army of orc hybrids. They growled and snarled, running like they were on a mission in the opposite direction of her. As quietly as possible, she turned back around and ran back the way she came, hoping none of them had seen her.

Suddenly she heard a yell coming from her left, and she headed in that direction. Once she reached the top of the hill, she found Boromir on the ground, covered in leaves. He was weeping.

Cautiously, she made her way over to him "Boromir?".

Startled, he looked up at her. His eyes blurred with tears, which he quickly wiped away "Lyra, I... I tried to take the ring from him."

Her eyebrows knitted together. "Where is Frodo?" Her voice was sharp.

"I don't know. He put it on, and... and ran off."

She shook her head at him as he stood up "You have to pull yourself together."

"Excuse me?".

"Look at us! Don't you realise the danger you've put us in because we had to split up to look for you?".

"What do you know about it?" He spat.

"I know that your pride is going to get us all killed."

Boromir glared at her, invading her space "You have no idea. It was a mistake for Elrond to allow a woman to join the fellowship in the first place. There is no place for you among us. You are nothing but a liability."

His words hurt, but she didn't let it show on her face "If that is the case, then why is it only you who seems to be unable to control himself around the ring?".

He didn't have anything to say to that, but he pushed by her, grumbling under her breath. Shaking her head, she went in a different direction, and soon she stumbled upon a familiar dark-haired man. She sighed in relief "Aragorn!".

He turned, hearing her voice, and immediately approached her "Lyra, where did you go? You can not wander by yourself. It's too dangerous."

She swallowed thickly "I was... looking for Frodo."

His eyebrows furrowed, noticing her hesitation "I found him."

"Where is he?".

"I sent him away."

"What?! Has everyone gone mad?".

He put his arm out, stopping her from trying to go after the hobbit. "Shh. Lyra, listen to me."

She looked at him.

"Before long, the ring will corrupt us all and bring the fellowship to its knees. Frodo has no choice but to do this without us."

She frowned "But-".

"I know." He interrupted softly. He gently stroked her forearm, offering what little comfort he could. He noticed she was still distracted, though.

"Lyra, did something else happen?".

She shook her head "N-No." Her stutter did little to convince him. He gently made her look at him, his thumb stroking her soft cheek. Her eyes looked glassy, and she was shaking a little. His voice softened, speaking in clear Sindarin so that she would understand what he was saying.

"Brennil nîn, where is your mind? Come back to me."

Her eyes refocused on his face. She didn't want to recount her encounter with Boromir in fear of him agreeing.

"I got lost, and I... saw an army of uruk-hai's ready to ambush us. I do not know where anybody else is."

"It's alright. Do not leave my side. We will find them."

When they turned the corner, the two of them were greeted by about a hundred uruks. Aragorn drew his sword as did Lyra a second later.

"Their armour is weak at the neck and under the arms." He informed her, and she nodded. As Aragorn went in fighting, Lyra followed suit, taking one uruk at a time.

Just as it was getting overwhelming, Legolas and Gimli came running in. The dwarf hacked away at the uruks while her brother fired arrow after arrow.

"Aragorn, go!".

Lyra breathed out heavily, staying near Legolas.

Lyra fought as if her life depended on it, which it did. Whether it was the adrenaline or something else, she didn't know. But her movements were smooth and swift, taking out uruks like they were nothing, even ones twice the size of her. It was exhausting.

Out of breath, she ran after Legolas and Gimli when they all heard the sound of a horn.

"The horn of Gondor." Legolas breathed out, prompting the three of them to abandon the fight and run down the hill in the direction of the horn. Lyra could feel her legs burning. She'd never run so fast in her life.

By the time they got there, Aragorn was kneeling by a body. Lyra furrowed her eyebrows, slowing to a stop when she recognised the armour. It was Boromir. She slowly approached the two men, ignoring her brother's attempts to grab her arm.

She saw the three large black arrows pertuding from his chest and torso. She dropped to her knees beside Aragorn.

"Forgive me. I have failed you all."

"No, Boromir. You fought bravely. You have kept your honour."

Boromir stopped him from trying to take an arrow out. "Leave it. It is over."

Lyra frowned "Boromir, let us help you."

He looked up at her, having not seen her approach "It is too late for me now."

She shook her head as a tear slipped down her cheek. "We're not leaving you."

The Gondorian reached for her hand weakly. "Lyra, I am sorry. Forgive me. I was wrong."

"You can still make it up to me. You don't have to leave now."

He choked on some blood. "Yes, I do. It's okay. Let me go."

Tears filled her eyes. Despite their disagreements, she knew he was a good man. She didn't want him to die. Her heart hurt for him. Everything around her slowed down, the situation becoming much more real. She didn't hear anything Aragorn was saying nor the words Boromir said to him. She just held his hand.

As he took his last breath, she felt a weak squeeze of her hand, and then he was gone.

"Be at peace, son of Gondor." Aragorn whispered.

The four of them were there for a long time. Lyra was frozen to the spot until Aragorn nudged her "Lyra, it's time."

His voice was soft and tentative speaking to her. She looked up at Legolas and Gimli standing behind her. She hesitated, wanting to stay longer just to hold Boromir's hand.

"Okay." She whispered, her voice wrecked from crying.

Legolas stepped in to help her up, and she had to hold on to him, so to not fall back down. She watched as Aragorn, still on his knees, leant forward to kiss his forehead like a blessing.

She was still in a daze as Legolas and Gimli helped Aragorn lift Boromir's body into one of the boats.

"They will look for his coming from the White Tower. But he will not return."

They set the boat into the river, letting the current take it downstream towards the waterfall. Lyra sighed, unable to watch it fall over the edge.

"Hurry." Legolas pushed the other boat into the water "Frodo and Sam have reached the eastern shore." He paused, looking back at Aragorn, who made no effort to move.

"You mean not to follow them?".

Aragorn sighed "Frodo's fate is no longer in our hands."

"Then it has all been in vain. The fellowship has failed."

Lyra couldn't help agreeing, looking at the ranger "What do we do now?".

He went over and clasped the two of them on the shoulders. Legolas watched curiously.

"Not if we hold true to each other. We will not abandon Merry and Pippin to torment and death... not while we have strength left."

She couldn't believe, in all the chaos, she forgot about those two rascals.

He turned to pick up a dagger from the side "Leave all that can be spared behind. We travel light. Let us hunt some orc."

Gimli and Legolas exchanged looks before the dwarf's face broke out into a grin "Yes!".

He ran off after Aragorn, leaving the two siblings in his wake. Legolas smiled at her "Are you ready?".

She gave him a small smile in return "Only if you are."

"Come on."

____________

[basically-baggins]

For The Love of a King - Aragorn x OC (Part 8)

Description: All her life, Lyra Greenleaf has struggled with her identity. Being the adopted daughter of the woodland King came with a lot of questions and restrictions, which have naturally caused her to rebel. Finally, she's out on her own, with her brother watching her every move. When she decides to join him on a life changing quest to destroy a ring, it might not have been the best idea. But it might just lead her to discover exactly who she is, perhaps with a certain heir to the throne of Gondor.

__________

The Evenstar

Lyra sighed, breathing in and out slowly as she walked through the gorgeous forest. When she looked up, she could barely see the tops of the trees. There was an air of serenity around her that soothed her racing thoughts. She believed Gandalf would come back somehow, but she failed to see how the fellowship would cope without him. They still needed him. The ongoing dispute between Legolas and Gimli was far from over, and she feared her own patience with Boromir was growing thinner and thinner. She knew she would lose it with him eventually. Without Gandalf, they only relied on Aragorn to keep the peace and lead them on.

She'd woken up early and untangled herself from Aragorn's arms before anybody else could wake up. She appreciated the comfort he provided, but the reality of the situation had caught up with her, and if she thought on it for too long, a light hue of pink dusted over her cheeks.

A snap of a twig behind her brought her out of her thoughts. Having not expected it, she drew her sword only to be met with piercing icy eyes of the Lady of Light herself.

Lyra's eyes widened in surprise,  and she stepped back "Lady Galadriel."

She put her sword away as the ancient elf spoke to her "Calm your heart, child. You are safe here."

She sighed, unsure of what to say next. Galadriel extended her hand "Come. Walk with me. We have much to discuss."

Lyra did as told, and they walked through the forest in a relatively comfortable silence. Knowing she wasn't in danger, the elf's presence soothed her. She had a calm, nurturing aura. Something akin to how she felt talking to Arwen.

"Do you know why I've come to find you, Lyra?".

She paused, then shook her head "I'm afraid not."

The lady of Light gave her a gentle smile "You have a bright future ahead of you. But you still have much to learn."

"You believe I have a purpose in the fellowship?".

"I believe you have a purpose in the world as everyone does."

She sighed "It seems as though the world is bigger than I imagined."

"Your heart is in the right place, child. Quiet your mind, and perhaps you will see for yourself."

She tilted her head, not understanding "But... how do I-".

She paused, noticing Galadriel had disappeared and left her by herself. But her voice remained in her head.

"Do not be afraid to let love in. You know of whom I speak."

That did not make anything clearer. She furrowed her eyebrows, puzzled.

"Lyra?".

Spinning on her heel, she saw her brother in front of her "Are you alright?".

She noticed that she was back at the campsite "Uh... yes."

It didn't convince him, but he didn't push "Come on. We are preparing to leave."

The fellowship lined up in front of Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn on the borders of Lothlorien. They were saying goodbye.

Aragorn stood next to her, and upon seeing the pine marten nestled around her neck under her cloak, he smiled slightly "He's still here?".

"Hm?".

"Your friend."

"Oh... yes. He's quite stubborn, but I've also been feeding him berries from the bushes I found here."

He chuckled "Does he have a name yet, brennil nîn?".

She nodded "I've named him Scout."

"Very fitting."

Celeborn gifted all of them green cloaks "Never before have we clad strangers in the garb of our own people. May these cloaks help shield you from unfriendly eyes."

Galadriel went down the line, presenting each member of the fellowship with a gift. She gave Merry and Pippin a dagger each, Sam an elven rope, Legolas a beautiful handcrafted bow, and she didn't quite hear what she gave to Gimli, but he seemed appreciative. Frodo received the light of Erendil, which Lyra knew was a big deal.

Galadriel stopped in front of her. "Lyra, my gift to you, dear child, comes from Imladris. It is the Evenstar, and it is yours to give to whomever you deem worthy of your heart. May it be a reminder of your bravery and courage until then."

Lyra eyed the necklace carefully, unsure of why Galadriel was so insistent that she would find someone to give her heart to. But she appreciated the sentiment. "Thank you."

She allowed her to place the necklace around her neck, making polite eye contact before she moved on to Aragorn.

Lyra began to help Legolas usher the hobbits into the boats they were also provided with, along with extra supplies for the journey. Sam wobbled a little as he sat down, and she gave him a small smile.

Merry and Pippin were in a boat with Boromir. Lyra had joined Legolas and Gimli while Aragorn had Frodo and Sam with him. As they began to make their way down the river, they all seemed lost in thought.

Lyra was still curious about what the dwarf received as his gift.

"I have taken my first wound at this parting." Gimli spoke aloud "having looked my last upon that which is fairest. Henceforth I will call nothing fair unless it be her gift to me."

She tilted her head "Gimli."

"Aye, lass?".

"What was her gift to you?".

"I asked her for one hair from her golden head... she gave me three."

She exchanged a brief look with Legolas before smiling softly at the dwarf in front of her.

It felt like forever they were paddling down the river, and Lyra's arms grew tired. Taking a small break, she looked down at the Evenstar necklace she had been given. She'd admit it was a beautiful piece of jewellery, but she was afraid of losing or breaking it. It felt so delicate, and suddenly the metaphor of it being a symbol of her heart made sense.

It was hers to give to whomever she deemed worthy of her heart. She wasn't even sure she knew what that kind of love felt like, so how would she know?

She was brought out of her thoughts by a gentle hand on her elbow. Looking back at her brother, she was half expecting him to tell her to keep paddling. But he didn't. His body was tense and his eyes darted along the river bank.

"What's wrong?".

He met her concerned gaze "Something is following us."

Her eyes widened, and she looked around. Not that she expected to see anything herself, but it worried her all the same.

It seemed like Aragorn and Boromir shared the concern too. The former soon told them to dock before nightfall.

Lyra grew nervous in the dark, but she sat by the small fire Sam set and sighed quietly. While the hobbits and Gimli fell asleep, she couldn't help listening to Boromir arguing with Aragorn. She almost wanted to knock some sense into the Gondorian herself. She agreed it was far too dangerous for them to travel through to Minas Tirith. Legolas, who was watching the river, noticed the expression on her face and gave her a silent warning not to interfere.

She frowned at him and he sighed befire sitting next to her. He was unaware of her fear of the dark, so he didn't know how much his presence comforted her, even if it was just to stop her from getting up.

"Get some sleep, muinthel."

"How can I knowing we are being tracked?".

"We are safe for now. Close your eyes."

__________

[basically-baggins]

For The Love of a King - Aragorn x OC (Part 7)

Lothlorien

Lyra stood slightly behind her brother as he spoke with Haldir in elvish. She got the gist of the conversation.

"Welcome Legolas, son of Thranduil."

"Our fellowship stands in your debt, Haldir."

"Aragorn of the Dunedain. You are known to us."

Impatiently, Gimli spoke up "So much for the legendary courtesy of the elves. Speak words we can all understand!".

"We have not had dealings with the dwarves since the dark days."

"And you know what this dwarf says to that?" He spoke the rest of his words in Khuzdul. Lyra didn't know what he said, but she could take a good guess.

Aragorn turned and grabbed his shoulder, warning the dwarf not to say any more "That was not so courteous."

Haldir turned away, then looked directly at Frodo "You bring great evil with you. You can go no further."

While Aragorn went to compromise with Haldir, Legolas went over to his sister, who he'd noticed was unnaturally quiet.

She looked at him but didn't say anything. His expression softened a little, seeing the look on her face. Her solemn expression matched the rest of the fellowship, but the elf was unsettled by hers.

He put his hand on her shoulder, which eased the tension in her muscles "Are you hurt?".

She shook her head, replying in a raspy whisper "No."

His eyes glanced over her just in case, then decided she was telling the truth. At least physically. Lyra moved closer to him, and he let her lean into him before putting his arm around her loosely. It was a subtle but effective form of comfort.

Eventually, Haldir allowed them further entry "You will follow me."

As they followed him, Haldir explained where he was taking them. "Caras Galadhon. The heart of Elvendom on Earth; realm of the Lord Celeborn and of Galadriel, Lady of Light."

Lyra felt intimidated already, but she wasn't fond of all the stairs she had to climb.

She fell into step with Aragorn, who glanced at her.

"Why must there be so many stairs?" She sighed grumpily, making the man beside her chuckle softly "Look up." He motioned to the glistening trees that surrounded them majestically. It did distract her from the number of stairs. But she made the mistake of looking down. She couldn't even see the bottom anymore, which made her lose her footing a little.

Her hand naturally gripped on to Aragorn's arm, and he paused briefly to steady her. She glared at him "You could've warned me."

He smiled "I believe I said look up, Lyra. Not down."

She supposed he was right, but she wouldn't admit that out loud.

Finally, they all made it to a landing at the top of the stairs, where another set of stairs awaited them. But, to Lyra's relief, they didn't need to climb those for a bright white light began to blind them.

Two figures walked towards them, holding hands, and when they stood in front of them, the light dimmed, revealing Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel.

Aragorn and Legolas bowed their heads in respect, and once Lyra blinked her momentary blindness away, she quickly followed suit. The hobbits all looked in awe, as did Gimli, surprisingly.

"The enemy knows you have entered here. What hope you had in secrecy is now gone." Celeborn spoke ominously. Lyra thought that was already clear enough that they didn't need it pointed out to them. But she didn't dare say anything.

"Nine there are here, yet ten there were set out from Rivendell. Tell me, where is Gandalf? For I much desire to speak with him. I can no longer see him from afar."

There was that painful reminder. Lyra glanced at her companions and the crestfallen expressions on their faces. She noticed Lady Galadriel staring at Frodo. She answered for them what they could not themselves.

"Gandalf the Grey did not pass the borders of this land. He has fallen into shadow."

Legolas was the first to say something. His voice was smooth and soft "He was taken by both shadow and flame. A Balrog of Morgoth. For we went needlessly into the net of Moria."

Lyra frowned at her brother's slight jab at Gimli as he was the one who suggested the mines in the first place. But it was none of them were at fault.

"Needless were none of the deeds of Gandalf in life. We do not yet know his full purpose. Do not let the great emptiness of Khazad-dûm fill your heart, Gimli, son of Gloin, for the world has grown full of peril... and in all lands, love is now mingled with grief."

As she paused, Boromir sobbed, and Lyra looked over at him. She may not agree with him, but she didn't want to see him like that. She frowned, unsure of what to do.

Suddenly, there was a voice in her head. Galadriel was speaking to her.

"Do not let your heart be consumed by your mind, Lyra, daughter of Mirkwood."

She didn't even know Galadriel knew of her. But she shouldn't have been so surprised.

"Have trust in yourself. You know what you are capable of."

Celeborn spoke again "What now becomes of this Fellowship? Without Gandalf, hope is lost."

"The quest stands upon the edge of a knife. Stray but a little, and it will fail to the ruin of all. Yet hope remains while the company is true. Do not let your hearts be troubled. Go now and rest, for you are weary with sorrow and much toil. Tonight, you will sleep."

Lyra sat on the ground near Aragorn and Gimli, but she was far enough to be by herself. She was listening to the lament for the fallen wizard. She, of course, couldn't understand the words. But it was beautiful nonetheless

Legolas walked by with a lantern "A lament for Gandalf."

Merry stood up, paying more attention "What do they say about him?".

"I have not the heart to tell you. For me, the grief is still too near."

As Sam spoke about Gandalf's fireworks, Lyra couldn't help smiling a little. She'd known Gandalf as a little girl when she first wandered into Mirkwood and had many fond memories of him. It was nice hearing how many other lives he affected in different ways.

But, like her brother, she didn't have the heart to tell any stories of him. She wanted to, but she feared her ability to keep the tears at bay if she did.

Her pine marten friend, still nestled in, nuzzled into her, somehow sensing her sadness. Once most of her companions had fallen asleep, she brought him out and let him rest on her chest. She stroked his silky head with her finger and didn't notice Aragorn approaching her until he sat beside her.

"You should get some rest, Lyra. We are safe here tonight."

She didn't know what to say. So she didn't say anything.

"Your temporary mutism is unsettling, brennil nîn."

Picking her head up, she looked at him "What would you like me to say?".

"Nothing. If that is what you wish."

She sighed "Sometimes I have nothing to say."

He tilted his head. "You do not have to wait for permission to speak, Lyra."

She shrugged "I have nothing to say, Aragorn."

His stormy eyes gazed at her sympathetically "Yes, you do. You have been quiet since before we entered the mines. That's a long time to have something on your mind."

She sighed, hating his perceptiveness. But it was also nice knowing someone other than her brother was looking out for her.

"Lyra." His voice softened.

"Hm?".

"What's on your mind?".

She frowned, forcing herself not to cry in front of him "I... would not want you to think less of me."

He furrowed his eyebrows "If there's something on your mind that you'd like to say, I won't stop you. I could never think less of you for that."

Much to her dismay, tears filled her eyes, and she attempted to blink them away. She couldn't believe he had convinced her to share something so vulnerable with him.

"I'm afraid, Aragorn."

He nodded "Understandably so. We have certainly had a lot happen to us in the last few days."

"No."

He furrowed his eyebrows as he looked at her "What?". He could now see the tears in her eyes.

"I mean... yes, but-".

He gently interrupted her by taking her hands "What is it that you fear, Lyra?".

"Well, from what I had heard before... bad things always seemed to happen at night. Or... in darkness."

As she explained it, he pieced it together very quickly and suddenly her subtle behaviour made sense. Her unease in the mines of Moria, and particularly in dark places, that the fellowship seemed to regularly find themselves taking refuge in. His expression softened, though she refused to look at him.

"You fear the dark." He muttered more to himself.

A quiet sniffle broke him out of his thoughts, and he knew he had to find a way to comfort her, but she didn't seem to want to accept it.

"Brennil nîn-" He breathed out, tilting her chin up with his hand. His thumb and forefinger gently stroked her jaw as he made her look at him. And he saw a stray tear fall down her cheek.

"Fear does not make us weak."

She shook her head "It does, Aragorn. It does when you are the only woman in a company of male companions."

"It does not. Even then. Lyra, you do not have to prove anything. You are smart, brave, and stronger than most of the men I know altogether. That I have no doubt of. You are not weak because you are afraid. You are strong because you are brave enough to face it."

Her green eyes flickered up to meet his stormy ones "You believe that?". He nodded "I know it." He reached up to wipe the tears off of her cheek with his thumb "No more tears tonight, Lyra." When she attempted to argue, he hushed her "Hush, now. Do not waste your tears on this matter anymore."

"Aragorn."

"Hm?".

"Will you stay with me?".

He held her gaze for a moment, then nodded softly "If that is what you wish." She nodded, moving closer to him, and he let her lean into him. Soon, she was hiding her face in his shoulder. With his other hand, he rubbed her back soothingly and pressed a brief kiss on her temple.

"Aragorn." She whimpered.

Hearing the genuine fear in her voice, he pulled her closer and just held her against his chest. "Do you hear my heart beating, Lyra? Focus on that." Her ear was pressed against his chest so she could hear it clearly. It was a calm, steady beat.

He began whispering in Sindarin. She could understand enough to know he was telling her to rest and that she was safe to do so. He spoke softly and clearly so that she would know what he was saying.

"Lyra." He spoke softly "Does Legolas know this?".

She shook her head, crying a little "No. P-please don't tell him."

Aragorn softly hushed her "Shh." He stroked her hair soothingly "It's alright."

She sighed, calming down again. Before settling against him, she hesitated and looked at him. He gently wiped the rest of her tears. "Sleep."

"I... are you sure this is okay?" She motioned to the closeness between them. He ignored her question. "Lie down."

Doing as told, she leaned into him and rested her head on his chest. His arms were strong, but loose around her, and the warmth that encased her was comforting. She sighed in relief, knowing she was safe.

Aragorn whispered words of Sindarin to her until she fell asleep in his arms.

It was the best sleep she'd ever had in her life.

___________

[basically-baggins]

For The Love of a King - Aragorn x OC (Part 6)

Description: All her life, Lyra Greenleaf has struggled with her identity. Being the adopted daughter of the woodland King came with a lot of questions and restrictions, which have naturally caused her to rebel. Finally, she's out on her own, with her brother watching her every move. When she decides to join him on a life changing quest to destroy a ring, it might not have been the best idea. But it might just lead her to discover exactly who she is, perhaps with a certain heir to the throne of Gondor.

The Mines of Moria

As quietly as possible, Lyra followed behind her brother while making sure the hobbits were still trudging along behind her. But she listened as Gandalf spoke. She was never one to refuse a story. The world she lived in fascinated her and she wanted to learn all she could about it.

"The wealth of Moria was not in gold or jewels. But mithril."

She let out a gasp as she looked down below her, as did the rest of the fellowship. It was a bottomless pit that made her stomach drop, but she swallowed the lump in her throat and pushed on.

"Bilbo had a shirt of mithril rings that Thorin gave him."

Despite the threat of an endless fall below her, Lyra couldn't help smiling at the conversation happening.

"Oh, that was a kingly gift."

"Yes. I never told him, but its worth was greater than the value of the Shire."

After climbing a rather steep staircase, the fellowship stopped at a landing. Lyra furrowed her eyebrows at the wizard, who was looking around.

"I have no memory of this place."

She sensed that it would be a while before they got moving again, so she sat down and gestured for Merry and Pippin to do the same. The two of them sat near her as the rest found their own places.

"Are we lost?" Pippin whispered.

"No."

"I think we are."

"Shh, Gandalf's thinking."

"Merry."

"What?".

"I'm hungry."

Lyra giggled at the two hobbits, making them look at her. "Here, if you are hungry, you can have this." Out of her pack, she revealed an enclosed leaf.

Merry tilted his head "What is it?". "It's Lembas bread. It's quite filling, should do for a few hours or so."

She opened the leaves and handed them the bread.

"Thank you, Lady Lyra. But won't you need some too?".

She shrugged "It's okay, I have plenty more in here. Take it." They thanked her again and began to eat.

She sighed quietly, leaning against the wall behind her. She was getting nervous being underground. It was stuffy and quiet and dark without Gandalf's staff. It wasn't something that was easy for her to admit, but the dark was something she had always been afraid of.

She believed it came from stories of travellers being brutally killed, or savage attacks on quaint little villages in the night. She would never admit it to anyone, not even her brother. If anyone on this quest believed she was the weak link, she couldn't ever let them know there was a reason for them to be right about her. And she knew it was a childish fear. Sometimes, she couldn't believe it herself. But it always came back. Especially now that they were deep in the mines of Moria.

Legolas had come over to sit beside her. She took a drink of water from her flask and sighed quietly "Do you think he'll remember the way soon?". Her brother nodded "I believe so." "Well, being underground is... something." He chuckled "It's uncomfortable, but I can think of worse places to be." She hums "I suppose so."

"Oh! It's that way."

Lyra looked over at the wizard, as did everyone else, she had noticed.

"He's remembered!" Merry exclaimed.

"No, but the air doesn't smell so foul down here. If in doubt, Meriadoc, always follow your nose."

Of all the things he could've said. Lyra chuckled. The old wizard had a lot of wisdom to share. That she knew very well. But he also said the oddest things. Which amused her.

As they were walking down the passageway, Gandalf used his staff to light the way. Lyra still didn't like it. It didn't stop her fear of what his light couldn't reach.

"Behold the great realm and Dwarf-city of Dwarrowdelf."

Momentarily forgetting about her fear, Lyra looked up in wonder and complete awe of the grand underground city before them.

"There's an eye opener, and no mistake." Sam commented.

He wasn't wrong. It was truly a sight to behold... until they stopped outside of a room. Inside, Lyra noticed what looked like a tomb. And from the looks of things, Gimli saw it too and ran in with gasp. Gandalf called after him and the rest quickly followed after the dwarf.

"No... no!".

Lyra felt bad for him as she watched him kneel before the tomb. As he wept, she placed a hand on his shoulder in an attempt to comfort him.

"Here lies Balin, son of Fundin, Lord of Moria." Gandalf read out.

"He is dead then. It's as I feared."

Lyra frowned, stepping away from Gimli to give him some space. She hadn't noticed Aragorn behind her, and she almost bumped into him. He looked at her "Are you alright, Lyra?". She nodded slowly, but he didn't quite believe her. He had noticed her unease while down here. He saw it in everyone, but she had been particularly jumpy. He didn't want to push it, though.

Gandalf gave his hat and staff to Pippin to hold on to while he grabbed an old, dusty book from the hands of a skeleton. Which Lyra visibly recoiled from.

"We must move on. We can not linger." She heard her brother whisper to Aragorn. She couldn't help but agree. As Gandalf began to read a page from the book, she looked around. It was so quiet.

"They have taken the bridge, and the second hall. We have barred the gates, but can not hold them for long. The ground shakes. Drums... drums in the deep. We can not get out. A shadow moves in the dark. We can not get out... they are coming."

Lyra jumped when there was a sudden crash, almost letting out a scream from the fright she got. Turning her head, she missed the concerned glance from the ranger beside her. She watched in dismay, over at Pippin who had been the one to make the racket, as the rest of the skeleton he had touched fell down the well. Everyone froze, listening as the crashing sounds echoed deeper and deeper into the chasm below. And it kept going.

Gandalf slammed the book shut "Fool of a took!". He grabbed his hat and staff out of Pippin's hands "Throw yourself in there next time and rid us of your stupidity."

Lyra didn't think he should've been that harsh, but the fear that ran through her, when she heard what sounded like the faint beat of drum, chilled her to the bone. The sound got louder and louder until it bounced off the walls surrounding them. As everyone looked around, Frodo's sword, Sting, began to glow blue which Sam pointed out.

"Orcs." Legolas said.

Boromir ran to the door only to almost get struck in the face by two arrows. Lyra took a deep breath before pulling out her sword, seeing everyone else pull their weapons out.

"Get back! Stay close to Gandalf." Aragorn said to the hobbits.

Legolas looked at his sister like he wanted her to do the same, but her glare told him no. She was going to fight.

The two men shut the doors, the Gondorian stating they have a cave troll. Barricading the door proved to be useless as the orcs broke through anyway. Lyra had fought orcs before. She could handle herself.

Gimli stood up with a determined grunt "Let them come! There is one dwarf yet in Moria who still draws breath."

Deciding to use her bow instead, she quickly put her sword away and took her bow out, notching an arrow just as fast as Legolas did. She aimed it at the doors, but it was her brother's arrows that broke through the hole in the door and struck an orc behind it. Then the door burst open, and she let her arrow fly as did Aragorn and Legolas.

She switched back to her sword as the orcs got closer, and then just started going for it. If she had to prove herself, she would. She would not be seen as weak.

As they were getting surrounded, Gandalf and the hobbits started fighting as well, at least the best they could. She fought off an orc that almost got to Merry and killed it before turning around upon hearing a deafening roar. The fellowship watched as the cave troll, held by chains, smashed in through the doorway. Legolas warned her to stay back from it, keeping a protective arm in front of her before shooting it in the chest. Lyra huffed in frustration, but she knew she wouldn't be much help with the cave troll, so she continued slashing at orcs.

While it went after Sam, Aragorn and Boromir did their best to hold it back only for the former to get flung into the wall. Before he could get stabbed by an orc, Lyra notched an arrow and shot it from where she stood. Boromir sat up and looked at her in surprise. She ignored him and carried on fighting.

While everyone was busy, Lyra ushered the hobbits into a corner away from the fight. "Frodo. Merry, Pippin. Stay behind me." They did as told, and she stood in front of them with her bow, shooting any orc that tried to come near them. Seeing Legolas showing off, she rolled her eyes. He was definitely the more graceful fighter of the two. He used the chain to climb up onto the troll's back and shot it in the head with two arrows before jumping off. But even that wasn't enough to take it down.

Lyra gasped as the cave troll decided to go after her and the hobbits. She managed to dodge a blow and stood her ground before running off with Merry and Pippin. But she realised too late that Frodo wasn't with them and her eyes widened seeing the troll play hide and seek with him.

Seeing Aragorn was closest to him, she called his name while fighting off more orcs.

"Aragorn!".

He looked at her, and she pointed to Frodo. He nodded and ran to help him, taking down orcs on his way. Now preoccupied with keeping Merry and Pippin safe, she stayed with them and fought through at least a dozen more orcs. With some help from Legolas.

It wasn't until she heard Frodo yelling for Aragorn that she noticed what was happening. The ranger was struggling to fight off the cave troll, and she swore she only took her eyes off of the two young hobbits for a split second, and they were throwing rocks at it.

When she saw the spear go through Frodo's chest, Lyra gasped as did everyone else it seemed. Trying to help their friend, Merry and Pippin jumped on the back of the beast and began stabbing with their short swords. Lyra fought as hard as she could, but she couldn't get through. She was panting heavily, grunting at the impact her sword was making with the orcs' skin. It appeared everyone else was having the same problem.

"Frodo!".

Finally, Legolas managed to land the final blow on the troll while Lyra and Gimli finished off the rest of the orcs. After shaking off a shiver, she ran over to Frodo, standing beside her brother as Aragorn crawled over the rubble to him.

But when he turned him onto his back, to everyone's disbelief, Frodo let out a deep breath. Lyra tilted her head.

"He's alive." Sam said.

"I'm all right. I'm not hurt."

"You should be dead. That spear would have skewered a wild boar."

"I think there's more to this hobbit than meets the eye."

Lyra smiled, truly believing with her whole heart that Frodo was special. Not just him, but she believed all four young hobbits were.

Frodo peeled his shirt back, revealing the mithril armour underneath, which had protected him from the spear. Lyra chuckled, wiping a tear from her eye as Gimli spoke "Mithril. You are full of surprises, Master Baggins."

But there wasn't much more time to dwell on it before they all heard the shrieking of more orcs coming their way.

"To the bridge of Khazad-dûm!".

Lyra could feel her legs burning as she ran along with the fellowship, away from the orcs gaining on them. Despite this, she kept pushing and just focused on following Gandalf.

But they couldn't get far before they were surrounded by what looked like millions of orcs. Some were even climbing down from the ceiling and walls, reminding Lyra of spiders. It was a chilling moment seeing them all appear from the darkness.

Lyra pulled out her sword, getting ready to fight. But a long, loud growl stopped her in her tracks. She froze, along with the others, as they turned to look down the hall, which lit up with a bright orange glow. As the growling got closer, all the orcs began to scatter. Out of instinct, Legolas reached behind him and grabbed his sister's arm. Although, this time, she wasn't complaining. As they watched the light glow brighter, the growling stopped.

"What is this new devilry?" Boromir asked.

Lyra glanced at the old wizard, wanting to know as well. Her heart rate was accelerating by the second with anxiety.

"A balrog." Gandalf finally answered "A demon of the ancient world... this foe is beyond any of you."

Hearing the wizard so nervous made Lyra's nerves skyrocket. And when he said to run, she took off as did the others.

"Run!".

She followed everyone down a staircase only for them to be abruptly stopped by an edge of a cliff, which would certainly lead to an unpleasant firey death. Out of instinct, she grabbed someone's sleeve, thinking it was her brother beside her. But when she looked and saw it was Aragorn, she quickly took her hand back "Sorry."

He said nothing, but gave her arm a reassuring squeeze.

"Gandalf!".

"Lead them on, Aragorn. The bridge is near. Do as I say! Swords are of no more use here."

Lyra furrowed her eyebrows, wondering what on earth the wizard planned on doing. Nevertheless, she followed the others down the steps. Until they halted before a gap in the middle. With no hesitation, Legolas jumped across first.

"Gandalf!".

The wizard jumped across, and that's when arrows started being fired from above. Lyra ducked to avoid getting hit. Legolas fired an arrow back, sticking it right into the orc's forehead. Boromir grabbed Merry and Pippin and jumped.

If not for the situation, Lyra would've giggled at Aragorn chucking Sam over to the other side and the attempt to do the same with Gimli. But the stubborn dwarf abruptly stopped him.

"Nobody tosses a dwarf!".

He jumped across, but to stop him from toppling backwards, Legolas grabbed his beard and pulled him forward.

"Not the beard!".

Then it was just her, Frodo and Aragorn left. But as they were preparing to jump, part of the bridge they were standing on started to crumble, which startled Lyra. Thinking quickly, Aragorn tossed Frodo across, and Legolas caught him. Aragorn pulled her closer to him

"Hold on to me. I won't let you fall."

For some reason, his words comforted her, and she held on to him. As the Balrog was still approaching, its booming footsteps caused chunks of rock to fall down and smash into the bridge behind them as well. Lyra gasped "Aragorn."

"Easy." He told her.

As the ledge they were on was starting to crumble, he instructed her to lean forward. She did as told, and as the rock began to fall, they jumped off. Legolas caught his sister, but she didn't even have time to see if Aragorn was alright before they all took off running again as the bridge collapsed and fell into the chasm below.

She could feel the heat of the flames behind her as Gandalf encouraged them to keep going. But when there was a deafening roar, Lyra whipped around and saw, appearing out of shadow and flame, the balrog with terrifying horns protuding out of its head. And it only spurred her on to run faster as it chased them. When they finally made it to the bridge of Khazad-dûm, they quickly crossed to the other side. But when Frodo stopped, so did the rest of them and found Gandalf facing off the balrog on the bridge. Lyra's eyes widened.

"You cannot pass!".

"Gandalf!".

"I am a servant of the Secret Fire, wielder of the flame of Anor. The dark fire will not avail you flame of Udûn!".

Gandalf's staff lit up against the firey whips of the balrog. Lyra froze, her heart in her throat as she found herself unable to look away.

"Go back to the shadow."

"You shall not pass!" Gandalf boomed, lifting his sword and staff at the same time and brought them down on the rock, causing it to give out, and the balrog began to fall. Lyra sighed in relief as the wizard started to walk towards them.

But the whip came up and grabbed him by the ankle. She gasped and attempted to run over to help him with Frodo, but both of them were held back. She squirmed "Wait, no! Gandalf!".

She froze, watching in disbelief as Gandalf struggled to stay on the rock.

"Fly, you fools." He gasped out before giving in and letting go. It felt like everything had slowed down, and her ears rang. She never even heard herself screaming.

Boromir had grabbed Frodo, and started for the exit "Aragorn!".

Lyra felt sick to her stomach as she stared at the spot Gandalf had just been.

"Lyra."

Aragorn gently grabbed her shoulder "Lyra, we have to go."

She sobbed "But-".

"I know."

He grabbed her arm and started pulling her towards the exit, narrowly avoiding the flying arrows.

For the first time in days, she could finally breathe in fresh air but it didn't feel like it. She felt so numb, she didn't feel the tears running down her cheeks. As they all took a moment to comfort each other, Lyra looked at them all unsure of what to do. She hadn't experienced death and grief like this before.

After a few minutes, Aragorn called to the elf "Legolas, get them up."

"Give them a moment, for pity's sake!" She heard Boromir argue, but she wasn't paying attention. She just stared at nothing until a hand on her shoulder brought her out of her daze.

She turned, meeting the blue eyes of her brother. He gave her a sympathetic look. She did want another few minutes, but she understood why they had to move on. Orcs would still be after them.

Legolas squeezed her shoulder as she wiped her tears away. "Can you help?" He asked, his voice soft. She nodded slowly and started to get the hobbits up as Aragorn said to.

She went over to Merry and Pippin, then helped them get up "Come on." The look on their face broke her heart, but she wiped both of their tears away with her thumbs "We'll be alright. We have to keep moving." Even if she wasn't sure she believed it herself, she still had to say it. Luckily they listened to her and got up, although they were visibly shaken and upset.

After Aragorn had rounded Frodo up, they set off. Lyra wasn't even sure where they were going. She wasn't listening before, but it didn't seem to matter. The ranger was running ahead of the group, and she didn't have the desire nor the energy to catch up. And it didn't seem like anyone else did either.

"Shh! Stay close, young hobbits. They say that a great sorceress lives in these woods. An elf-witch... of terrible power."

Lyra shook her head at the dwarf's words. She walked by herself, staring in wonder at the trees around her. It was a beautiful forest.

"All who look upon her fall under her spell... and are never seen again."

She sighed quietly as she noticed Aragorn fall into step with her. He didn't say anything, but his presence beside her was nice. But she looked at him when she felt his hand gently grasp her elbow. She paused in her step, raising an eyebrow "What?".

He motioned for her to be quiet, then nodded at the shrubbery around them. She didn't get it, but stayed still and only just caught the last of Gimli's rambling.

"I have the eyes of a hawk and the ears of a fox. Oh-".

He stopped abruptly when an arrow pointed at his face. And suddenly Lyra understood why Aragorn had moved her behind him as then appeared more arrows pointing at all of them. They had been surrounded by elves. Legolas was quick to notch an arrow.

"The dwarf breathes so loud, we could have shot him in the dark."

__________

[basically-baggins]

The Lord of the Rings The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) dir. Peter Jackson

[basically-baggins]

Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers 2002, dir. Peter Jackson

[basically-baggins]

Aragorn raised the bar so high that not even other fictional men can compare. It should really be studied

Every so often I think of how the LOTR movies managed to cast a guy as Aragorn who is simultaneously yes, very masculine, very action-hero-y, and also someone who as a woman I would one hundred percent feel safe being alone with in any situation. Not one cynical, alpha male, smirky, appeal-to-the-jerkbros-in-the-audience fibre in his body. Just thinking about Viggo Mortensen’s Aragorn makes me feel a little calmer. Absolutely outstanding.

[basically-baggins]

This is one of my favourite headcanons I've read

Lotr headcanon, having lots of patches on your clothes is fashionable in the Shire. The more patches, the cooler you are. Especially if it's a lot of different fabrics. It's common to trade patches with friends and family, and it's usually treated with high sentimental value. It's like carrying a piece of someone with you.

While the hobbits are on the quest, their clothes get holes and such. This leads Sam and Frodo to nab small things from the other members of the fellowship, like handkerchiefs or anything too worn for use, to use as patches. Merry and Pippin aren't so courteous, and cut pieces from the fellowship's clothes while they sleep.

Of course, the hobbits exchange patches amongst themselves while traveling, and they never go anywhere without a needle and some thread. Sam is the best at sewing. Pippin is not allowed around needles.

Boromir notices this, thinks it's adorable, and leaves things out purposely for the hobbits to use. Eventually, he asks about it, and they convince him to do the patches, too.

Aragorn also notices and thinks it's adorable, but doesn't bring it up to them. He's secretly flattered to find pieces of his rag on Frodo's pants. He asks Boromir about it instead.

Legolas doesn't notice. His clothes are elven-made, and the scissors refuse to cut it.

Gimli notices the random holes in his clothes, and the things going missing, but doesn't realize it's the hobbits. He brings it up to Legolas, who immediately convinces Gimli that he's crazy and it's all in his head.

Gandalf notices, obviously, and he doesn't mind until Pippin tries to cut his cloak while hes asleep. He proceeds to wake up and yell at him until dawn.

After Boromir dies, Aragorn takes his cloak, and sews pieces onto his clothes. These are the only patches he has.

Bilbo has a set of clothes with patches from the dwarves, from his own adventure. He told them about the tradition, and they all gave him pieces of fabric to use. He can still recount which patch belonged to who.

[basically-baggins]

It's ironic how a major part of Lord of the Rings is that storytellers always overlook hobbits in their legends because their simple lives are "less important" than the lives of Great Royals & Grand Warriors--- since that's ultimately been reflected in the current state of the Tolkien franchise itself! After the LOTR films, big-budget Tolkien franchise installments (and copycats) overwhelmingly focus on their Aragorn analogues, with hobbit-like characters shoved to the sidelines. The Lord of the Rings films may be flawed, but they succeeded because they had a strong central story-- the relationship between Frodo and Sam, and the fairytale-themes about small overlooked people who save the day while the villains are distracted by Great Heroes from Noble Bloodlines, are what give the story the deep lasting emotional impact that it has. But the franchise(tm) quickly decided that the royal warrior elves/men were the far more exciting marketable characters, and their battle skills could allow for more flashy spectacle. The Hobbit films gradually focused more heavily on the warrior characters, with Bilbo being a glorified extra by the last movie; The Amazon LOTR show focuses on a noble warrior elf of royal blood as its main character and political intrigue among the royalty of different kingdoms as its main plot; the recent animated film focuses on a noble hero of royal blood involved in epic battles. I've mentioned before that it's fascinating how all the new "Tolkien franchise" installments (as well as media inspired by LOTR) continue to center their stories on the Aragorn archetype-- a Destined Noble Hero/Warrior from a Royal Bloodline etc etc. The entire premise of Lord of the Rings is that Aragorn represents the hero of a typical generic fantasy epic, while the ordinary Hobbits are the heroes of this one. Aragorn is interesting not in spite of the fact that he is a side character, but because of it. If he were the central character of the story, Lord of the Rings would be very bland and generic. "Let's do a new version of Lord of the Rings but focus on powerful grand royal hero characters instead" is a lot like saying "let's do a retelling of Wicked from Dorothy's point of view." It's like, "congrats! you've successfully reinvented the exact type of story the original writer was commenting on and subverting." XD

[basically-baggins]

EDIT REQUEST MEME Anonymous asked LOTR + 2 ∟ Favourite Male Character

[basically-baggins]

Dominic Monaghan as Meriadoc Brandybuck in The Lord of the Rings

[basically-baggins]

For The Love of A King- Aragorn x OC (Part 5)

Description: All her life, Lyra Greenleaf has struggled with her identity. Being the adopted daughter of the woodland King came with a lot of questions and restrictions, which have naturally caused her to rebel. Finally, she's out on her own, with her brother watching her every move. When she decides to join him on a life changing quest to destroy a ring, it might not have been the best idea. But it might just lead her to discover exactly who she is, perhaps with a certain heir to the throne of Gondor.

Warnings: Some cute moments with Lyra and Legolas. Bonding with Aragorn, and the usual "warnings" of lotr

Notes: Hey, here's part five. The journey begins. Enjoy!

__________

The Fellowship of

The Ring

After dressing in clothes she knew she wouldn't be taking off for a while, she made sure she had everything she needed; including her pine marten friend, who still remained nameless.

Lyra looked up when there was a knock on her door. Opening it, she found her brother on the other side.

He gave her an uneasy smile. "May I come in?". She nodded, letting him into the room as she went to put her cloak on. Legolas shut the door, then sighed. "I am sorry, Lyra."

She looked at him, crossing her arms. "For what, brother?".

He crossed the room to stand in front of her. "You must understand my concerns."

She sighed. "I understand why you are concerned, Legolas. It is the same reason as my concern for you. What I do not understand is why you think it is up to you what I am capable of."

He frowned. "You misunderstand me. I do not doubt your capabilities."

"Then what is it, Legolas?".

He sighed softly. "Lyra, it has been my responsibility to look after you since you first came to Mirkwood. I have felt it is my job to protect you, and you volunteering to join a quest in which you have very little knowledge of scares me. I hoped your reckless nature would not interfere with your ability to think rationally before you make a decision that could have dangerous consequences."

She took in his words, then looked at him with a small smile. "You are aware there is a seldom chance of me refusing the chance of an adventure."

He held her gaze for a moment, eventually relenting. "Promise me you will be careful."

She grinned. "When have I ever been careful, Legolas?".

He sighed. "Never. That was my point."

________

"The ring bearer is setting out on a quest to Mount Doom. You who travel with him, no oath nor bond is laid to go further than you will."

There was a pause before Lord Elrond spoke again, "Farewell. Hold to your purpose. May the blessings of elves, men, and all free-folk go with you."

Lyra shared a smile with some of her new companions.

"The fellowship awaits the ringbearer." Gandalf spoke as they all waited for Frodo to make the first step. He turned and began to take the lead through the stone archway.

"Mordor, Gandalf. Is it left or right?".

"Left."

As she began to follow her companions, she turned to look back at Arwen. She waved, hoping it wouldn't be the last time she'd see her friend. The elleth waved back, smiling softly. Shaking her head, she turned to quickly catch up to the rest.

While walking, she let her hand rest on her furry friend curled under her cloak. He gently nuzzled her, and she smiled.

With Gandalf leading, the fellowship travelled over dry grasslands until they stopped to eat and rest.

"We must hold West over the Misty Mountains for forty days. If our luck holds, the gap of Rohan will still be open to us. From there, our road turns east to Mordor."

Lyra sat on a rock next to Aragorn as the rest of the fellowship were scattered around. Boromir was sparring with Merry and Pippin.

"Three, two, one. Five, good. Very good."

"Move your feet." Aragorn commented from behind his pipe.

"Nice going, Pippin."

"Thanks."

Lyra smiled as she watched the hobbits until Boromir accidentally caught Pippin's knuckle with his sword. "Sorry!".

The hobbit kicked at the man until he fell down, and Merry joined in. Aragorn shook his head, smiling.

"For the shire!".

"Hold him! Hold him down, Merry!".

With that, Boromir managed to get up rather easily. Then Pippin turned to her.

"Why don't you have a go, Lyra?".

Boromir smirked. "I don't see why not."

She chuckled. "Oh, no. That's not a question I need answering." She heard a light chuckle from beside her and exchanged a look with Aragorn.

The hobbit nodded, a friendly smile on his face.

Aragorn looked at her. "I've noticed you have a companion of your own."

She smiled slightly. "Don't tell Legolas."

He paused for a moment but nodded. "Where did he come from?".

"The forest outside of Rivendell. I do not know why, but I couldn't seem to part from him."

"Does he have a name?".

"No, I haven't decided on one yet."

The moment was interrupted when Sam asked, "What is that?".

"Nothing, just a wisp of cloud."

"It's moving fast against the wind."

"Crebain from Dunland!".

"Hide!".

Lyra got up as they all began to get their things together. She hid with Frodo and Sam. They waited for the birds to pass before slowly coming out of hiding.

"Spies of Saruman. The passage south is being watched." Gandalf spoke. Lyra walked over to stand beside her brother as the wizard announced that they would have to head up the snowy mountain pass. She looked up, seeing it in the distance. With a huff, she begrudgingly began to follow. Legolas couldn't help looking back at her to make sure she was still there.

Trudging through thick snow was the last thing Lyra wanted to be doing. Wrapping her cloak tighter around herself helped keep her body heat in, and she hoped her pine marten was okay. But she stopped when she heard a commotion behind her.

Turning around, she saw Frodo had fallen.

"Frodo!".

Aragorn managed to catch him and helped him up. Lyra almost sighed in relief when she noticed Frodo clutching around his neck.

"Frodo, what's the matter?". She asked.

He looked up, and she followed his gaze to see Boromir reaching down to pick up something shiny from the snow. She swallowed thickly as he raised it up to his face.

"Boromir."

"It is a strange fate we should suffer so much fear and doubt over so small a thing."

"Boromir!". Aragorn raised his voice, snapping the Gondorian out of his trance.

"Give the ring to Frodo."

The fellowship tensely watched as Boromir approached the hobbit with the ring and dropped it into his hand.

"As you wish. I care not."

With a ruffle of Frodo's hair, he turned around and continued walking. Lyra noticed Aragorn loosen his grip on the hilt of his sword.

The higher up the mountain, the deeper the snow. While Legolas had no problem walking over the top, his sister suffered the same as the rest. Grumbling about how much she despised the snow, she lost her footing and fell into the fluffy white powder. Her struggling had not gone unnoticed as she felt a hand on her back. Looking up, she met Aragorn's stormy gaze.

He gave her a soft smile. "Are you alright?".

She huffed, nodding as she allowed him to help her up. "I've been better." Dusting off her cloak, he met her eyes once more. "We will be out of the snow soon enough, brennil nîn." He kept a hand on her elbow to steady her as they continued on together.

"There's a fell voice on the air." Legolas spoke up.

Lyra froze as the voice grew louder and louder, rattling the rock above them.

"It's Saruman!" Gandalf replied.

As part of the mountain above them fell into the abyss, Aragorn yelled, "He's trying to bring down the mountain! Gandalf, we must turn back."

"No!".

Lyra huffed out a breath. "What do you mean no?!".

She felt an arm around her waist and looked up at the ranger. "Do not let go of Frodo."

She nodded, gripping onto the hobbit's cloak as tight as she could while Aragorn had Sam. Boromir had both Merry and Pippin under his arms while Gandalf fought back against Saruman. But a bolt of lightning hit the rock above them. Lyra gasped.

Before she was covered, she felt someone press against her. Once the snow had landed on top of them, Lyra began to dig herself out upon realising she couldn't breathe properly. She still had a grip on a material of clothing, so she pulled Frodo up with all her might when she felt someone behind her.

She breathed out heavily, meeting Aragorn's gaze. Rubbing her back, he made sure she was okay. She nodded before looking around for everyone else. When she met her brother's icy gaze, she saw him breathe a sigh of relief at the sight of her.

"We must get off the mountain! Make for the gap of Rohan and take the west road to my city!".

"The gap of Rohan takes us too close to Isengard!".

"If we can not pass over the mountain, let us go under it. Let us go through the Mines of Moria."

"Let the ring bearer decide." The wizard replied. The fellowship turned to look at the hobbit in question.

"We can not stay here! This will be the death of the hobbits."

"Frodo?".

This seemed to sway him as he replied. "We will go through the mines." Lyra looked over at Gandalf. The way he closed his eyes made her think that was the wrong choice.

"So be it."

Lyra breathed out a sigh of relief when she felt the snow lessen. Her clothes were damp and she wrung her hands from the cold. When the fellowship finally reached the bottom, Lyra paused for a moment.

Then she felt a hand on her shoulder. She didn't need to turn around to know it was her brother.

"I see your dislike of snow has not changed." He pointed out. She huffed. "Dislike? I believe a stronger word would be more suitable, brother." He chuckled, patting her shoulder.

Gimli paused, pointing ahead of him. "The walls of Moria."

Legolas walked by his sister's side, the two of them listening to the dwarf's rambling.

"Dwarf doors are invisible when closed."

"Yes, Gimli. Their own masters cannot find them if their secrets are forgotten."

"Why doesn't that surprise me?". Legolas whispered to his sister. She smiled, nudging him with her elbow. "Hush."

As they approached the wall, Gandalf began murmering incoherently, and the door soon lit up as the light from the moon shone down on it. Lyra stepped back a little, her mouth falling open slightly. It wasn't like anything she had ever seen before.

"It reads, 'The doors of Durin, Lord of Moria. Speak friend, and enter'."

"What do you s'pose that means?".

"Oh, it's quite simple. If you are a friend, you speak the password, and the doors will open."

Gandalf then began to speak in elvish, and they all waited for something to happen. Lyra pursed her lips, wondering what was taking so long.

"Nothing's happening." Pippin pointed out. Lyra smiled but held her tongue.

"I once knew every spell in all the tongues of elves, men, and orcs."

"What are you going to do then?".

Lyra thought it was a perfectly reasonable question, however Gandalf didn't seem to agree. "Knock your head against these doors, Peregrin Took! And if that does not shatter them and I am allowed a little peace from foolish questions, then I will try to find the opening words." He spoke harshly.

Lyra put a gentle hand on the young hobbit's shoulder, making him look up at her. She gave him a small smile.

As they all waited for Gandalf to remember the password, Lyra sat down on a relatively damp log. But she figured she was going to encounter much worse on this journey, so she shrugged it off. For a moment, she watched Aragorn and Sam send Bill the pony back home. She wondered how on earth he would manage that, but he had endured much thus far. Surely, he could handle the journey back.

Merry and Pippin were throwing pebbles into the water out of boredom. And Lyra had no doubt that she would do the same if it wasn't for the suspicious quietness of it. Aragorn quickly stepped in, stopping Pippin from throwing another one with a warning not to disturb the water. That only made her more weary. She sighed quietly as the ranger sat next to her. The slight flinch from her did not go unnoticed by him.

"How are you holding up, Lyra?" He asked curiously. She shrugged. "I'm doing okay, I think." He turned to look at her as his eyes narrowed. "That's not what I asked."

To change the subject, she said, "It matters not. I've been meaning to ask you something."

He decided to let the sudden change of subject go and sighed. "Alright, go ahead."

She smiled slightly. "You are one of the Dunedain. Are you not?".

He hums, "You are quite perceptive. How did you know?".

She shrugged. "I have met many rangers before. There was something different about you... putting the secret heritage identity aside." He smiled, letting out a breathy chuckle but didn't say anything.

"The Dunedain were blessed with long life, yes?".

He nodded "That's right." She hums, in awe of the man beside her.

"So... are you really a hundred years old then?".

He chuckled again, knowing she was teasing. "Not quite, brennil nîn."

He stood up, ending the conversation.

"Come, I believe Gandalf has figured it out." She stood up and followed him over to join the others.

"Mellon."

The doors suddenly creaked and groaned as it opened.

"Well, I could've done that." Lyra muttered under her breath.

"Soon, master and lady elves, you will enjoy the fabled hospitality of the dwarves."

While Legolas rolled his eyes, Lyra smiled. "I can't wait, Gimli."

Feeling encouraged by her soft words, the dwarf continued to ramble on.

"Roaring fires, malt beer, ripe meat off the bone. This, my friends, is the home of my cousin, Balin. And they call it a mine. A mine!".

Lyra only smiled bigger as she listened to him. She was eager to experience other cultures in more depth than she got from the books she had read. But she froze when she stumbled over something and looked down only to see a skull staring back up at her.

"This is no mine. It's a tomb." Boromir said as Lyra heard gasps from all around her. The wails Gimli let out broke her heart. Legolas bent down to pull out an arrow.

"Goblins." The two men and Legolas all pulled out their weapons.

"We make for the gap of Rohan. We should never have come here."

Lyra glared at the Gondorian. "Oh, will you give it a rest?".

She got a death stare in return, but her gaze never wavered. She was determined to prove him wrong. And him believing that she would be no good with a sword only spurred her on.

She would admit, perhaps her fighting style wasn't the most graceful, but it had gotten her this far. She only looked away when she heard the screams from the hobbits. Looking behind her, she gasped at the sight of the giant tentacled creature coming out of the water with Frodo in its grasp.

Quickly, she pulled her sword out and ran alongside Aragorn and Legolas to help. While they got the hobbit to safety, she slashed at the tentacles. Legolas fired arrows at it to finish it off, and Lyra rushed the other three hobbits into the cave where Gandalf was waiting.

"Into the mines!".

As the cave crumbled into darkness, Lyra huffed out a breath.

"We now have but one choice. We must face the long dark of Moria. Be on your guard. There are older and fouler things than orcs in the deep places of the world." Gandalf spoke as the top of his staff lit up the way.

"Quietly, now. It's a four day journey to the other side. Let us hope that our presence may go unnoticed."

________