Lord Aragorn wearily rubbed his face and went to bed, though he got no more than an hour of sleep. The king awoke quite a while before dawn and drearily pulled himself out of bed. He stumbled into his son's room to see if Eldarion was awake and would be prepared to leave soon. Aragorn saw, though, quite a bit more than he expected. When he entered, Fengel was sleeping peacefully in one of the two large beds, which was normal enough. In the other, however, Ainuelle and Eldarion were half-sitting, half-lying there, holding each other, sweetly kissing; it was clear neither the prince nor his princess had slept at all in the short hour that everyone had been given to get some rest. The couple did not even take noticed to Aragorn, they only continued what they were doing, Ainuelle giggling every time Eldarion lightly touched her face or lips.

Aragorn was furious. He had allowed Eldarion to stop the wedding, and that was all fine and good, but it was going too far. The prince had paid attention to nothing but Ainuelle since escaping from Minas Tirith; he had not even slept the previous night due to being awake and occupied with her. Aragorn groaned and marched himself briskly over to the bed. He yanked the covers off of the two of them and glared angrily at his son, frowning. "Get up, Eldarion. Get ready. We are departing soon." When Eldarion, who was still in a bit of shock at what his father had done, didn't move a muscle, Aragorn snapped at him again. "Move!" Eldarion nodded quickly, hopped out of bed, leaving Ainuelle sitting there, and (after waking Fengel and taking his friend) made his way off to the neighboring room to get ready.

After Fengel and Eldarion had left, Aragorn approached Ainuelle, who was gathering what few things she had to go. The king frowned. "Listen to me, Ainuelle." Ainuelle looked over at him, a bit surprised to see him right there at the moment. Before she could respond, Aragorn continued. "It is fine for you to come along, though I certainly do not approve, but you must understand that Eldarion is a commanding general in this army now, and he has no time for foolish things as you two spent all of last night doing. Do you understand me?" He asked firmly, as if everything was all Ainuelle's fault.

The thing that Aragorn did not know was that Eldarion and Fengel had re-entered the room, and the prince had heard everything his father had said.
Ainuelle @ 12:17 a.m., Saturday, October 4, 2003

Eldarion smiled faintly at Ainuelle and brushed a piece of hair that was sticking to her face. Fengel had decided he'd seen and heard enough, and walked off, feeling extremley embarrassed. Eldarion looked back and laughed a little when he saw his friend walk off. Ainuelle was smiling as well, and after a long while of kissing again, they went back to their chambers. The two had fallen asleep with no problem - they were extremley tired and hadn't gotten a good rest for what seemed to be forever. Meanwhile, Fengel had returned to Aragorn and told him that Ainuelle would be coming along. The King looked a little worried - a woman coming to war? But all the same, he nodded and dismissed Fengel who ran off to get some sleep as well.
Aragorn @ 08:51 p.m., Thursday, October 2, 2003

Eldarion frowned deeply and shook his head. "She is not coming! I am not going to endanger her that way!" Fengel frowned as well. "Eldarion...the Lord Aragorn says that we must leave at dawn, and it is nearing. You must make up your mind. Do you really intend to leave her behind with those who wish to punish her?" Fengel swallowed hard, hoping that he would be able to convince Eldarion to bring Ainuelle. While he didn't want to upset his best friend, he had also grown to really like Ainuelle, and he did not intend to let Eldarion leave her behind so easily. Eldarion stubbornly looked from Fengel to the sobbing Ainuelle. He frowned and the hard look on his face melted down a little. He walked over to Ainuelle and, though she was still sobbing, gently put his arms around her and kissed her neck several times, then her ear, then her cheeks and her eyes. This made Fengel blush a little; he felt like he was being intrusive on privacy. Ainuelle quit crying a little bit, just long enough for Eldarion to kiss her lips. When he pulled away, there were tears in his own eyes. "If anything were to hurt you on the way to battle, I would never forgive myself, you know." Ainuelle nodded and laid her head on Eldarion's chest, her tears wetting his shirt. He put a hand on her head and then kissed it. "And it will not be comfortable; sleeping in a small tent in the cold rain every night with little food, marching and riding horseback every day." Ainuelle sniffled. "That does not matter to me. You do."
Ainuelle @ 04:51 p.m., Monday, September 29, 2003

Eldarion's eyes widened as she turned a corner, and was out of his sight. "AINUELLE!" he cried out, "WAIT!" He shouted. And only a second earlier Aragorn had granted Fengel's idea - Ainuelle could come along! Fengel bowed low to Aragorn and raced over to the door, excited of what he was about to tell Eldarion and Ainuelle. "Eldarion!" he shouted as he opened the door...but he opened it to find no one there; Eldarion had chased after Ainuelle. The servant looked around and sighed, he'd have to find them on his own. It wasn't too hard to find them either, because he had heard Ainuelle crying and shouting at him and Eldarion trying to talk with her (but having very little sucesss).

Fengel's footsteps where heard and Eldarion and Ainuelle snapped towards him. "F-fengel?" Eldarion asked, a little suprised he had come. Fengel nodded. "I er...Lord Aragorn has granted permission for Lady Ainuelle to come along."
Aragorn @ 04:21 p.m., Monday, September 29, 2003

Aragorn frowned. "Fengel...what do you mean?" Fengel swallowed a bit and bowed, still trying to give the king the utmost respect. "Well, Lord Aragorn, they really do love each other. I know this for a fact; it's incredible, really. They have been through an awful lot in the past two weeks, and the bulk of it has been just to enable the two of them to be together." Aragorn nodded, though still frowning. "Well, I will not leave my son behind, and that is a fact." Fengel swallowed again. "Getting the princess to come along could be a possibility as well, Lord."

Meanwhile, Eldarion was listening from in the hallway, Ainuelle still leaning up against the way and crying her eyes out. The prince's eyes widened. "Ainuelle...hush for a moment..." He desperately wanted to hear. This made Ainuelle cry even more; she hated Eldarion at the moment. She really wished she could go back home and marry Prince Jineur and be miserable for the rest of her life; at least she would not be as miserable as she was at the moment. Ainuelle stood up, shakily though, and began to walk down the hallway; she was prepared to find a way out of Rohan come Hell or high water. Eldarion whipped his head around just to see her begin to walk down the hallway, her light footfalls echoing.
Ainuelle @ 06:28 p.m., Sunday, September 28, 2003

Eldarion sighed softly and after a long silence, he heard voices from the room he and Ainuelle had just been in. Aragorn and Fengel's voices. Fengel spoke first. "Lord Aragorn?" he asked, sounding very timid as he spoke. Eldarion didn't hear anything come from his father, so he guessed that Aragorn had just motioned to Fengel that he could speak. Fengel cleared his throat. "If I may...speak my opinion about this..." he paused, "I think that Eldarion and Ainuelle...I think they should be together." Fengel bit his bottom lip - he couldn't believe he was talking to the King like this. When he was serving Arwen, he was never allowed to speak his mind. But he felt more relaxed in front of Aragorn for some reason. Probably because he knew Aragorn was more understandable then Lady Arwen. Fengel quickly finished, "I think that you should let them decided together about this...about Eldarion going with you, I mean."
Aragorn @ 09:49 a.m., Sunday, September 28, 2003

Ainuelle did not look at Eldarion; she only continued to sob. "B-but...if you loved me so, then you would not even think about going away and leaving me!!!" Eldarion swallowed hard. "But you don't understand, Ainuelle! I do love you!!! And I don't just want to please my father!!!" But in his mind, he knew that he did. He wanted to please King Aragorn more than anything else. His father had been so noble and so amazing...and he had just been a pampered, spoiled prince all of his life. He had done nothing. And he wanted to prove himself. He had to prove himself...but how was he to please two people at once?
Ainuelle @ 10:50 p.m., Saturday, September 27, 2003

Eldarion went cold, as he froze. "...wha...what?" he asked, very quietly. He couldn't beleive what he was hearing from Ainuelle. When Ainuelle repeated what she had said, Eldarion dropped to his knees. "You-you don't mean that!" he said, and choked back tears. Was she really this upset with him? Ainuelle looked away from him. It didn't take long until Eldarion did break out in tears. When he did so, he grabbed Ainuelle's hands. "A-ainuelle..." he swallowed, "I love you...I thought...I thought you loved me too...how could you say such things...?!" he cried.
Aragorn @ 10:13 p.m., Saturday, September 27, 2003

Ainuelle then did something Eldarion didn't think she would do in a million years. She glared at him. He knew she was upset, but angry? Eldarion's frown deepened as Ainuelle continued to glare at him. "How...how could you do something like this?! And then you stand here and tell me you don't want to fight! Ha! You're a liar! You know you do so want to fight! You think that if you fight, you'll impress your father! That's the only thing you care about; impressing him! And you're just going to leave me behind to let the Dark Lord come upon us and tear me to shreds without ever getting to lay my eyes upon you...ever again..." And then, suddenly, Ainuelle couldn't find it in herself to shout anymore. She just collapsed in tears, sat down on the floor, leaning up against the wall. She buried her face in her knees, pulling her legs up to her chest. Her entire world had fallen down around her in the last two weeks. "I wish that we would have never met, Eldarion..."
Ainuelle @ 09:54 p.m., Saturday, September 27, 2003

Eldarion frowned deeply. "A-Ainuelle..." he started, and swallowed. Whould he be able to get her to calm down? "Ainuelle, I don't...I don't want to leave you...but, I must fight." he wrapped his arms around her pulled her close to him. Ainuelle just continued to cry and cry, and she buried her face into his chest. Eldarion looked down at her, he wanted to cry himself, actually. But he forced himself not to. "Ainuelle..." he pulled her away from him, and looked at her straight in the eyes. "I will come back. I promise I will."
Aragorn @ 09:37 p.m., Saturday, September 27, 2003

Ainuelle continued to sob. "B-but...Eldarion!!! We've been working for weeks to get it so that you and I can be together! And...and now you're going off and trying to get yourself killed!" Ainuelle was inconsolable, her face buried in her hands as she leaned up against the corridor's wall. Eldarion was quick to respond. "But I'm not going out and trying to get myself killed! I'm fighting for my father! For the sake of Gondor!" Ainuelle continued to sob, shaking her head. "I cannot believe you're even considering this! You just want to leave me alone while you go off and fight!"
Ainuelle @ 09:06 p.m., Tuesday, September 23, 2003

Aragorn frowned deeply as Ainuelle shouted at him. Eldarion was looking surprised Ainuelle had said that - why wasn't she happy for him?! He already knew why though, he bit his bottom lip, and before Aragorn could come up with a reply for her, grabbed her arm and pulled her outside. Fengel stayed by the king however, bowing over and over again, wanting to thank him a hundred times more. Aragorn would have smiled at Fengel, but what Ainuelle had just said...he couldn't.

Eldarion, meanwhile was trying to calm Ainuelle down outside of the room. "Ainuelle, I want to do this. I've always wanted to do this! Please, try to understand..."

Britt - I'm not sure if I'll be able to get online long enough to talk after school today. Since my parents had that Back to school night, they know everything that will be going on in my classes for the rest of the week - they know about homework, tests, quizzes, so now they're going to check that I do everything(I usually do my homework @ study hall, not at home ^^) >.< I have tae kwon do tonight too. But I'm going to try and post as some of the RP's and stuff, and I might be able to get on around 8 or 9 to chat, but I'm not sure. If I don't talk to you today, then tomorrow definately! <3 Dun
Aragorn @ 07:56 a.m., Tuesday, September 23, 2003

Fengel was crushed. So much, in fact, that he had nothing to say but a blank, "Yes, sir." Eomer turned back to Eldarion and Ainuelle, who were holding each other tightly. Aragorn stood beside them and, before Eomer could say anything more, put an arm on his son's shoulder. "Eomer, myself and my troops will be pulling out of Edoras at dawn. We shall devise our own strategy; there shall be an alliance between the Rohirrim and those of Gondor no more." Aragorn frowned, motioned to Eldarion, Ainuelle, and Fengel, and started out of the room. Eomer was awestruck. How could Aragorn pull out of a bind that had held two governing nations together since the dawn of time?! It was preposterous! But, somehow, Eomer had nothing more to say to the king. Instead, he had an idea forming in his mind. Mordor was succeding in all of its battle efforst; Edoras and all of Rohan would soon be captured and burned to the ground. Why not join them while there was still the opportunity...?

Upon getting back to Aragorn's room, the king began to dress and talk quickly to the three at the same time. "I have thousands of soldiers camped upon the land of Rohan, you all know this. I am pulling them out, and we are pushing towards the Black Gate of Mordor. Eldarion," he paused for a moment, gave his son a respectful look, then handed his own sword to his son and continued speaking, "you will assist me in commanding my troops." Eldarion's eyes widened as he grasped his father's sword. "B-but...I...it is an honor, father..." Was all he could manage to say. He had dreamed since he was a young boy about the day he would join his father in command of Gondor's troops. He gazed in awe at the sword, Narsil, reforged since the use of it by Isildur, second bearer of the Ring of Power, while Aragorn was handing Fengel another very nicely crafted sword and appointing the servant assistant to his son. Fengel and Eldarion had both never been happier. Ainuelle, however, was in tears. She stomped right up to the king, crying. "HOW CAN YOU PUT YOUR OWN SON'S LIFE ON THE LINE LIKE THIS?!"
Ainuelle @ 08:44 p.m., Monday, September 22, 2003

Eomer sighed, why couldn't Aragorn go back to his kingdom? With Eldarion, of course. Why couldn't he just leave and let him and Faramir deal with Ainuelle?! Eomer finally decided what to do. "Go get Lord Aragorn." he said to one of the gaurds. The gaurd nodded, bowed and left to retrieve Aragorn. He returned several minutes later with Aragorn, who was looking extremley tired. He hadn't bothered to change out of his pajama's and his hair was a complete mess. Eomer raised an eyebrow at the King's appearnce, but quickly started blabbing to him about what Eldarion and Fengel where up to. "You son, and his servant where found in Ainuelle's room, Aragorn!" he said angirly. Aragorn, who was almost totally awake, frowned. "...is that all?" Eomer looked at him blankly. "You do not care?! They disobeyed orders!!" he said, and turned back to the three. "I belive punishment is in order!" he said, glaring at the three of them. Aragorn said nothing. So Eomer continued. "I don't want you near Ainuelle again, Eldarion." he said. "And you servant..." he sneered, "I don't ever want to see your face in my kingdom again!" he shouted at Fengel. "None of this would have happened if you had kept the prince in his room."
Aragorn @ 08:26 p.m., Monday, September 22, 2003

Ainuelle was crying as she tried her hardest to cling to Eldarion, though the guards attempted to separate them. "Eldarion..." She whimpered and clung more closely to him. Eldarion looked down at her, on the verge of tears himself. Fengel, meanwhile, wasn't crying but instead just shaking more than he ever had before. We have to get out of here. Was the only thought that Fengel could think as he looked around the hall for a way out. He knew that he wasn't going to let himself get caught. Not this time. But he just couldn't see a way out. The guards began shoving Eldarion and Ainuelle down the corridor and towards Lord Eomer's bedroom (it was 1 AM, so they figured Eomer would be asleep). The doors were thrown open, and the three of them were shoved in front of Eomer as he got out of bed and dressed, frowning deeply. He looked at the head guard. "Well?!" The guard cleared his throat, forgetting to give Lord Eomer the report. "I apologize sir." He bowed and then frowned and nodded towards Ainuelle, Eldarion, and Fengel. "These three were all found in Lady Ainuelle's quarters; the lady and the prince were hiding!" Eomer looked at the two of them. His anger had reached an unbelievable level. At the moment, he felt like killing Eldarion. He felt like a failure as an uncle because his niece's betrothal had been torn to pieces. He felt like a failure as a brother because his sister was so miserable. And he felt like a failure as a leader because Rohan was nearly completely taken over by Mordor. He wasn't sure what to do.
Ainuelle @ 09:12 p.m., Sunday, September 21, 2003

Fengel swallowed - could he have said something more stupid then that?! Instead of concentrating on him looking brave - he should been working on coming up with excuses. Fengel looked up at the gaurds. "I was - I was just checkin on Princess Ainuelle. I thought I heard something...but, it turned out to be nothing!" Fengel said. "Where's Prince Eldarion?!" one of the gaurds demanded. Fengel rubbed the back of his neck. "Well, I asked Lord Eldarion to come with me...and, I just told him to go back to his room...so - so he's in his room...right now...he's - he's in his room." he nodded. "Yeah. He's in his room right now." Fengel started mumbling various things - which made the gaurds think he was a complete idiot.

After about 4 minutes, the gaurds had made up their minds - they didn't believe Fengel at all. "Move." one of them grunted and pushed Fengel aside, and opened the door. The other gaurds walked in as well, and Fengel stayed outside the room, praying that Eldarion got out of the room. But in seconds he heard shouting. "Why are you two in here together?!" One of the gaurds shouted. Another came back outside the room and grabbed Fengel by the collar. "You! You lied to us!!" he screamed. Fengel shut his eyes tight, scared to death. "I-I..." he had no idea what to say. Eldarion was forced outside the room, as was Ainuelle. "You'll be seeing King Eomer." one said to all three of them.
Aragorn @ 03:30 p.m., Sunday, September 21, 2003

Fengel stood outside of the door, trying to make himself look much braver than he really was. Bangs were heard on the doors. Fengel opened them up. Two guards tried to butt into the room, but Fengel instead let himself OUT of the room and closed the doors behind himself. He forced a smile. "H-hello, er...is th-there a problem?" The guards frowned. "Where are they?" Fengel swallowed hard. "I...er...who are you talking about?! I have no idea who you're talking about! I really don't!" The guards raised eyebrows at Fengel disbelievingly.
Ainuelle @ 12:31 p.m., Sunday, September 21, 2003

Fengel was shaking more and more as each second passed by. "Come on, Fengel...you can't look like this when they come. Th-they'll know you're hiding something..." he whispered softly to himself. After a minute of talking to himself, he managed to calm down a little. He whiped the sweat and tears away from his face. New tears didn't replace the old this time. There was banging on the doors in no time, and before they came in, Fengel ran over to the bed, and leaned down. "I'm going to go out there and talk to them. While I'm talking to them, you get back to your room!" he paused, "Go through the window...or something..." he whispered.
Aragorn @ 10:42 p.m., Saturday, September 20, 2003

Eldarion frowned. He wasn't sure what to say. He was angry at Fengel, yes, but he expected his best friend to be angry at him as well. Somehow, though, Fengel wasn't. For some reason, Eldarion saw an emotion on his best friend's face that he had not ever seen before: fear. Fengel was practically shaking with it. And for a good reason, as well. He had never been more afraid in his life. Eldarion swallowed hard and looked down at Ainuelle, who was clasping so tightly to his hand that it had turned white. She frowned deeply and bit her bottom lip, a tear running down her cheek. She'd separated two lifelong best friends, and now one of them was sacrificing the life he knew for her best interests. She hated it. Eldarion couldn't bring himself to speak, so he just nodded at Fengel and quickly led Ainuelle towards the bed. He squatted, then gave Ainuelle a shove so she slid underneath the bedframe. He followed, holding onto her tightly and putting a finger to her lips in the darkness, kissing her silently on the neck. He swore to himself that he would die before he let them take his love.
Ainuelle @ 10:08 p.m., Saturday, September 20, 2003

After a couple minutes passed, Eldarion hadn't come up with an idea that would actually work. He thought that he'd be able to hide - but then Fengel was here, and crying. Even if they did hide, the gaurds would probably hear Fengel...Eldarion gritted his teeth, he had to come up with something. In the middle of his thoughts, something rather unexpected happened. Fengel forced himself up and stumbled over to Eldarion. "El-Eldarion, hide. I-I c-can cover for you when the g-gaurds come. Th-they won't know you c-came here..." he said and whiped his tears off his sweaty (not to mention bloody) face, only for new tears to replace them. Fengel thought he was going to be banished no matter what, so the least he could do his help out his friend. Even if Eldarion did hate him.
Aragorn @ 11:24 p.m., Friday, September 19, 2003

Ainuelle gazed at Fengel, frowning, a sympathetic look on her face. At the moment, she was feeling as though she had completely torn the two best friends apart. "Eldarion..." He urged him to go to Fengel, but he wouldn't. He just swallowed hard and began to think about how he was going to keep himself and Ainuelle from getting into trouble yet again. He looked around the room quickly, trying to find a way to both ignore his ex-best friends crying and to think up a plan at the same time.
Ainuelle @ 10:59 p.m., Friday, September 19, 2003

Eldarion still ignored Fengel. Fengel walked over to him, "Eldarion! Please!" he said, and when Eldarion didn't listen, Fengel grabbed the prince's shoulders and yanked him away from Ainuelle. Eldarion snapped around, and glared at Fengel. "Fengel! Just leave me and Ainuelle alone! ...Just...just go away!" he shouted and pushed Fengel with all his might (which was quite hard) toward the door. Fengel ended up banging into the door, which made a loud noise, and that was all that was needed for a group of gaurds to hear, and start marching up to Ainuelle's room. Ainuelle gasped a little when she saw Eldarion treating Fengel like that. "Eldarion...what are you doing? He's your best friend..." Eldarion turned to her. "Well not anymore." he frowned deeply, "He doesn't want you and I to be together, Ainuelle." Ainuelle looked a bit surprised, and before she could say anything, Fengel broke out into tears. The gaurds would be there any minute, he'd be banished from Edoras, and on top of that his best friend (and only friend, really) hated him.
Aragorn @ 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 19, 2003

Eldarion marched as quickly as possible, though trying not to make a ton of noise, to Ainuelle's room. It took him a while to locate it, as he had no idea where she was staying, but finally, after narrowing it down to just the one bedroom left, he knocked softly and opened one of the two double doors. Ainuelle was lying in bed, crying a little, reading a book to try and get her mind off of what was going on all around her. When she looked up and saw Eldarion there her eyes widened and she immediately jumpe down and ran across the tile floor and into his arms. After shutting the door behind himself, Eldarion held Ainuelle, tightly, neither of them saying anything. After finally pulling away, Ainuelle swallowed hard and looked up at Eldarion in fear. "What if they catch you...?" Eldarion kissed both of her hands and shook his head. "They will not catch me; I swear to you. And even if they did, it would not fase me. All I need is to be here with you." He kissed her fingertips as Fengel burst through the door, shutting it behind him. He was bleeding a bit right above the eye from where Eldarion had pushed him into the wall, and when Eldarion saw what he had done, he felt a small twang of guilt flood through him. But then he remembered that Fengel was 'on the other side' now. Eldarion felt betrayed. He scowled at his former best friend. "What are you doing here?" Fengel swallowed hard. "Eldarion, we have got to get back...someone's going to catch you!" Eldarion ignored him. Instead, the prince, and Ainuelle climbed up onto her bed and held each other, silently kissing. Fengel, meanwhile, was standing beside the door fretting to death. He didn't want his friend to be angry, but he was going to have to get Eldarion out of the room. "Eldarion, we HAVE to go! Now!"
Ainuelle @ 08:07 p.m., Thursday, September 18, 2003

Eldarion stared at Fengel, "Fengel, please move." he repeated. Fengel shook his head. "No," he swallowed, "You...you can see Ainuelle tomorrow, Eldarion..." Eldarion sighed, getting frustrated. "I won't get caught!" he thought for a moment. "And if I do, I will make sure you don't get blamed." Fengel still didn't move. "No. Lord Eomer would be mad at me no matter what...he's not at all like Lord Aragorn." he said quietley. Eldarion rolled his eyes. "My father has more power then Eomer." Fengel frowned. "But Eomer can banish me. This is his kingdom." He bowed his head a little. "Please, Eldarion. Please stay here." Eldarion had had his teeth gritted the whole time Fengel had spoken. "Fengel!!" he snapped, fed up with talking. He wanted to see Ainuelle more then anything right now. "MOVE!" he shouted and took a step forward and pushed Fengel aside violently, completley forgetting that he had just pushed his best friend, who had been crying into the wall. Eldarion opened the door and walked out of the room quickly.

Fengel got up, and decided to follow him. He couldn't risk the fact that Eldarion could get caught.
Aragorn @ 07:49 p.m., Thursday, September 18, 2003

Eomer's eyes were wide as he stared at Aragorn, taken aback by the king's intolerance. Yes, Aragorn was his leader (Eomer and Faramir were only appointed to rule the smaller parts of Gondor and Rohan), but Eomer did not think he would ever be shouted at in such a way. Eomer, trying to keep his cool, answered back calmly. "Ainuelle is only sixteen, Lord Aragorn. She does not know what makes her happy at the moment. She is reacting to this situation purely out of passion for your boy. It is nothing more than that." Ainuelle was ready to jump at her uncle and attack him with all she had, but Eldarion quickly fastened his arms around her waist from behind and kissed her neck, whispering into her ear, "Be calm, love." Ainuelle did so, though she was extremely puzzled as to why Eldarion was so calm about the whole situation. Aragorn sighed deeply. "Eomer, we will talk about this on our own time. These three," he motioned to Fengel, Ainuelle, and Eldarion, "have had a very rough past several days. They need rest." Eomer folded his arms and looked between Eldarion and Ainuelle. "I agree. But the servant must keep watch over your son. The two are not to see each other until we have this straightened out." He grunted and walked across the room. Aragorn nearly began to argue, but he stopped himself. He looked at his son apologetically and then went to talk with Eomer in the other room. Eldarion, frowning as Ainuelle sobbed silently in his arms, looked over at Fengel, who had his head bowed, not making eye contact. Eldarion let Ainuelle free of his keep, knowing that if they tried to stay together, the situation would not improve at the moment. Eldarion and Ainuelle went their separate ways, both crying a little; Fengel followed silently behind Eldarion.

After sitting in his room with no sleep, midnight having just passed, Eldarion finally got out of bed and pulled on a jacket; he was freezing. The noise he made awoke Fengel, who was sleeping on a bed opposite Eldarion's. The prince walked over towards the door, prepared to do whatever it took and to sneak around any guards he had to in order to retrieve Ainuelle. But Fengel did something unexpected. Shaking, taking deep, rattling breaths, Fengel stood in front of Eldarion, his arms held out. "You cannot go to her, Eldarion," he said shakily, frowning and swallowing hard. Eldarion raised an eyebrow. "What are you talking about, Fengel?" Fengel took another deep breath and continued, firmly standing his ground. "If you are caught with her, the blame will be pinned to me. I have been banned from Minas Tirith, and I cannot be banned from Edoras as well. If I am, I will have nothing." Silent tears began to run down Fengel's face. "I cannot let you go, Eldarion." Eldarion stood there in shock. Never before had Fengel done anything like this. Ever since their boyhoods, they had been partners in crime; they both pulled pranks together, snuck out together, broke the rules together. And now, suddenly, at the very worst time possible, Fengel was trying to keep him from doing something he desperately needed to do. "Fengel, move." Eldarion spoke rather firmly, but Fengel just shakily shook his head. "I...I cannot do that, Eldarion."
Ainuelle @ 06:55 p.m., Thursday, September 18, 2003

Aragorn had had it. He had reached his limit of patience - he was furious. At Eomer, at Faramir...he was more angry then he ever had been. He gritted his teeth and glared at Eomer. "NO!! No we will NOT have it that way!!" he screamed. Eldarion's eyes widened - he had never seen his father look so angry in his entire life. Eomer frowned deeply, disliking the respect he was getting from Aragon, though he had treated Aragorn with disrespect as well. For some reason, he felt as if he were a higher status then Aragorn, when he wasn't. Before Eomer could say one word, however, Aragorn shouted at him again. "Why would you wish to seperate them?! They care so deeply about each other...you can tell that their happy together! Why would you want to take that away from your neice?! Do you not care about her happiness?!" Aragorn spat question after question to Eomer, until finally he had to breath, and stopped.
Aragorn @ 09:36 p.m., Wednesday, September 17, 2003

Eomer thought to himself for a moment, looking down warily at Fengel. "Well then, boy, you will serve as an excellent guardian for keeping this prince away from my neice." Eomer said the word 'prince' with a certain sneer to his voice, a bit of anger as well. Fengel's eyes widened. Him being in charge of keeping Eldarion from Ainuelle?! Him?! Fengel swallowed hard and went palid as Ainuelle and Eldarion's eyes widened with his own. "B-but, m-m-my Lord...I...I do not think-" Eomer glared. "I did not ask what you think, did I, boy?!" Fengel swallowed even harder. "No, lord. I apologize, lord. I...I accept your opinion, lord." Eomer held up a hand, motioning for him to stop speaking, which he quickly did. The king turned to Aragorn. "So, Aragorn, shall we go about it as I have planned, then?" Referring to the separation of Ainuelle, and Eldarion, Eomer raised an eyebrow at the flaring mad Aragorn.
Ainuelle @ 08:26 p.m., Wednesday, September 17, 2003

Ainuelle nodded, taking a step forward. "Lord Aragorn is right, Uncle...I chose to go with Eldarion." Eomer was silent, trying to think of something so he would win this arguement, and have all of them be punished to what he saw was fit - and that was, to have Eldarion and Ainuelle seperated.

He spotted Fengel behind Eldarion and Ainuelle, still kneeling with his head bowed, and face not visible at all. Eomer frowned. "You! Servant!" he sneered at Fengel. Eldarion (as well Ainuelle) frowned deeply, Eldarion not liking at all how Eomer was treating his best friend. Fengel didn't move though. Eomer raised an eyebrow and pushed Eldarion aside and walked over to Fengel. "Stand up." he ordered. Fengel still didn't move - he was scared out of his mind - this was it...this was when he'd be banned from the whole Kingdom. He could tell Eomer was nothing like Aragorn - not nearly as forgivable or easy going as him, which made him scared.

Eomer frowned even more. "I said, rise!" he snapped, and grabbed the back of Fengel's shirt, forcing him to his feet. Fengel stumbled at first, trying to balance himself. "Y-yes, Lord Eomer?" he asked. "You were the one who made both Eldarion and Ainuelle come along with you, weren't you?!" Fengel shook his head ever so slightly. "N-no, Sir. I didn't..." Eomer frowned, this wasn't what he wanted. He didn't like Eldarion, and he wasn't too fond of Aragorn anymore either. Not nearly as much as Faramir though...but, he still didn't like them, and he didn't want his neice being so involved with them. "Don't lie to me." Fengel swallowed. "I'm not lying, Lord."
Aragorn @ 05:12 p.m., Tuesday, September 16, 2003

Eomer looked quite taken aback by Aragorn. "Aragorn, you seem to be handling this situation far too lightly. YOUR SON put my niece in terrible danger! He kidnapped her!" Aragorn cut Eomer off. "I would not go that far, Eomer. Ainuelle was not kidnapped, the way I understand things. She simply agreed to leave with Eldarion and Fengel. No one forced her to leave."
Ainuelle @ 04:54 p.m., Tuesday, September 16, 2003

Eldarion looked down at his feet, frowning very deeply. So his father was angry with him...very angry with him. He swallowed, he had actually thought Ainuelle would be right - that his father wouldn't be upset with him, and because of that he hadn't even bothered to think up of excuses early. Aragorn looked down at his son angirly. "Eldarion?!" he questioned, tired of waiting for an answer. "I'm sorry, Father..." Eldarion finally said very softly and timidly. Aragorn opened his mouth to speak, but Eomer interrupted.

Eomer stood up and marched over to Eldarion. "IS THAT ALL YOU CAN SAY?!" Aragorn stepped back, well, Eomer pushed him back really. Aragorn frowned - why did everyone treat him with such disrespect?! Eomer started screaming at Eldarion nonstop, and, after a couple minutes Aragorn was very upset with Eomer. "Eomer...Eldarion is my son, I will deal with him..."
Aragorn @ 08:52 p.m., Monday, September 15, 2003

Ainuelle and Eldarion took several steps toward the two kings so that they were standing right in front of Eomer and Aragorn. Eldarion was determined to make things come out alright, and that he and Ainuelle would not be separated. He grasped her hand tightly, not wanting to ever let go. Fengel was still kneeling behind the two, his head bowed, heart pounding. He was just positive that he would have nothing left, that he would be exiled from the Kingdoms of Men, that he would have no one, that he would be lonely for the rest of his mortal life. He nearly started to cry. Eomer and Aragorn's frowns deepened as Eomer opened up his mouth to speak. "What were you thinking, Ainuelle?" His deep voice echoed off of the walls of the lounge, calm but very angry at the same time. Ainuelle bit her bottom lip and looked at Eldarion for support, but he was equally troubled. She looked at her feet. "I...we..." Her voice faded off. She could not finish. Eomer spoke, his loud voice thundering over hers like a bear over a mouse. "Do you have any idea how much trouble the two of you have caused?!" Ainuelle nodded, only beginning to imagine what Arwen had done.

Aragorn piped up when Ainuelle said nothing in response to her uncle. "And what do you have to say for yourself, Eldarion? Putting Ainuelle and Fengel, not to mention yourself in danger; do you have any idea how many troops from Mordor are stalking these lands right now? Do you not understand?! And your mother! Do you have any idea how upset she is?! How worried?!" He stood, taking a step toward his son. "You have gone entirely too far; I permitted you to put a stop to Ainuelle's wedding, yes, but this is folly. You've no business doing what you did. None at ALL!" Aragorn's voice had gone from calm to a yell as he stood right in front of his son, awaiting Eldarion's answer to all of the questions he had spat at the prince.
Ainuelle @ 07:43 p.m., Sunday, September 14, 2003

Both Eldarion and Ainuelle's jaw dropped when the saw Aragorn and Eomer there, waiting for them. They both went a little pale too - Eldarion more then Ainuelle. Fengel, froze in his tracks when he saw the two kings and dropped the things he was carrying and kneeled down on one knee. He bowed his head, his body quivering with fear. "M-my Lord..." he said shakily. What was going to happen to him now? Would he be banned from Rohan? His brother lived in Rohan...well, he did when he wasn't off at war. Fengel wouldn't have any other place to go if he got banned again.

Eomer motioned to Eldarion and Ainuelle, as well as Fengel, but he hadn't seen Eomer because he was bowing, with his eyes shut tight, saying a silent prayer that everything would be alright.
Aragorn @ 11:56 p.m., Saturday, September 13, 2003

Ainuelle and Eldarion kissed for a very long time, passionately, holding each other as the rain showered them in the forest. Fengel was watching from near by, and he couldn't help but frown. The three of them were now considered outcasts, yes, but at least Eldarion and Ainuelle had each other to love. Fengel had no one. His parents were dead, the mistress whom he served now hated him, he wasn't much of a swordfighter or an archer...he felt as though he was good for absolutely nothing. He just folded his arms uncomfortably and took a few steps towards Ainuelle and Eldarion. "Er...I am sorry to interrupt, but I believe that perhaps we should continue towards Rohan. This rain is getting worse by the moment, sir." He immediatly corrected himself. "I...I mean, Eldarion." Eldarion quickly pulled away from Ainuelle, rather embarassed; he had forgotten about Fengel being there and having watched them. "You are...you are right. Let's go." He nodded towards Fengel, trying to cover up how embarassed he was, even though it was just his best friend.

The three of them reached Rohan in the dark of the night and snuck their way around the soldiers (several of whom were sleeping on the job), then managed to climb in through a back entrance to the palace. They snuck along the quiet, dark hallways, hunting for an empty room they would be able to sleep in; they figured it would be better to deal with Aragorn and Eomer in the morning. "I believe this one is clear." Eldarion whispered, motioning for the other two to follow him. He lit a large torch with his sobbing wet clothes, dripping water all over the floor. to their surprised, however, the light revealed the room to be a medium-sized lounge, and Eomer and Aragorn were sitting there waiting for them, deep frowns on each of their faces.
Ainuelle @ 07:53 p.m., Saturday, September 13, 2003

Eldarion looked over at Ainuelle. It was silent, except for the splashing of the rain, which was gradually starting to fall heavier. Eldarion looked at Ainuelle, "I trust you, Ainuelle." he said simply. He said it truthfully too - she was right...she had to be. If his father wanted them to be together, he wouldn't be upset with them...because, that's why he and Ainuelle ran away. To be together. Eldarion smiled at her and leaned in closer to her, "I love you." he said and kissed her.
Eldarion @ 07:31 p.m., Saturday, September 13, 2003

Ainuelle pulled Eldarion more closely to her. "Eldarion...you have nothing to apologize for. I love you...more than anything. And your father...your father is not going to be angry with you! He was the one who wanted you and I to be together...he won't be angry, I swear it, darling." She tilted his chin up and stared straight into his eyes as raindrops began to fall on them. "Everything is going to be fine. And we'll be together through everything, no matter what. Do you...do you trust me?" She looked at him, hoping to God that he would come around.
Ainuelle @ 07:20 p.m., Saturday, September 13, 2003

Eldarion looked at Ainuelle, straight in the eyes as well, but after only ten seconds, shifted his gaze to the burning fire. Ainuelle frowned, wishing very hard that Eldarion would start acting like his normal self again. She could tell Eldarion was thinking very hard about something, so she kept quiet for a bit.

And when she thought he wasn't going to say anything to her, Eldarion finally spoke. He swallowed, and still staring into the fire said to her timidly, "I...I am sorry, Ainuelle..." he said, frowning deeply. "I am sorry for the way I've been acting." he bit his bottom lip and put one of his hands on his face, still looking troubled.
Aragorn @ 08:39 p.m., Thursday, September 11, 2003

Ainuelle sighed and then looked kindly but firmly at Fengel. "It does not matter to me, Fengel. Do what you feel is comfortable for you. I hope you do not feel as though you must bow, because I would feel more comfortable if you didn't. But as I said, whatever you feel is right." Fengel relaxed a little for the first time since they had left Minas Tirith. He didn't feel as though he was completely pressured to quit acting how he previously had. He did eventually want to stop bowing and such, but it would take time to break himself of, just like any other habit a person has. Fengel smiled. "Thank you, Ainuelle." Ainuelle nodded and smiled back. "You are welcome, but there is really no need to thank me." Ainuelle turned and went over to the fire that Eldarion had made, continuing to cook the meager breakfast she had started earlier. Eldarion, meanwhile, had been watching from a short distance where he was sitting and thinking to himself. He felt horrible for acting the way he had towards Fengel and Ainuelle. He wanted to apologize, take it all back, but he couldn't seem to bring himself to do so. His father's approval meant more to him than anything else in the world, and the thought of his father angry tore him apart. Ainuelle finished breakfast and served it (Eldarion declined, saying he wasn't hungry), and then, after quickly eating her own, went over to Eldarion. She sat beside him and kissed his neck several times. He pulled away from her at first, but she crawled onto his lap and put her arms around him, then whispered into his ear. "Why do you fear anything?" Eldarion thought for a moment as she caressed his face and neck, and then answered back in a whisper. "I believe you know the answer to that." Ainuelle looked straight into his eyes. "There is nothing to fear when the one who loves you most is beside you, Eldarion."
Ainuelle @ 08:49 p.m., Wednesday, September 10, 2003

When Eldarion did not say anything, Ainuelle frowned, knowing Eldarion did not consider his father's feelings. "You didn't?!" Eldarion, who wasn't facing Ainuelle at the moment, rolled his eyes and rolled around so he was facing her. "No, I didn't! Now let's jsut get some sleep." he said grumpily and turned back around. Ainuelle frowned even more, not approving of Eldarion's answer. But she figured, that, hopefully Eldarion would be better after he'd gotten some rest.

It turned out Eldarion got a little better when the next day came (but he hadn't gotten that much rest, he was restless almost the whole time, unable to stop thinking about his father). Fengel was quieter then he ever had been, and Ainuelle was stayed silent as well since Eldarion and Fengel were quiet.

When they stopped for a break, to rest up and maybe eat a little bit, Ainuelle went over to Fengel who was rustling through his bag, trying to find something. She was hoping he'd be a little more friednly to her, because everytime she tried to talk to Eldarin he'd ignore her or snap at her. "Fengel?" she asked. Fengel looked up and bowed his head, but then he quickly stopped himself. "...do...you want me to stop bowing too?" he bit his bottom lip, "You don't, right?" Fengel asked, he had a bunch of other questions to ask her- like, if she needed anything, or if he could help her in anyway...he couldn't help but think of these things - it was basically all he did his whole life afterall...serve royalty.
Aragorn @ 06:27 p.m., Wednesday, September 10, 2003

Eldarion groaned and put a firm hand on Fengel's shoulder. "Stop it! Stop the bowing, stop calling me 'lord' and 'sir', stop apologizing so much! I'm not the prince anymore!" Eldarion shouted, and then he turned and began to walk out of the garden, clearly irritated with more than just Fengel at the moment. "Come on. We need to get out of Minas Tirith territory before we can make camp tonight." Ainuelle said nothing, she just followed Eldarion, Fengel barely keeping up behind her; he felt bad for making Eldarion so angry.

It took until midnight for the three of them to get out of Minas Tirith territory and camp. Ainuelle rolled out the blanket for herself and Eldarion while the prince sat there, sharpening his sword with a small dagger he carried. Fengel, meanwhile, was already lying in between two blankets on the other side of the small campsite, trying to think of a way to redeem himself. When Eldarion crawled into bed after removing his boots, shirt, and every one of the many weapons attached to his bed, Ainuelle was already lying there waiting to lecture him. When the prince's head hit the pillow, she immediately started whispering firmly into his ear, "Eldarion! I cannot believe the way you treated Fengel! That was horrible!" Eldarion said nothing; he just pulled the blanket further up over him. Therefore, Ainuelle continued. "Do you know how much that hurt him?!" Eldarion looked over at her and nodded slowly. "Well at least Fengel does not have to worry about his father hating him forever for leaving." Ainuelle looked rather taken aback. "You mean you did not consider that before we left?!" Eldarion was silent; he had not in fact considered it. The thought of his father's anger was eating away at him from the inside.
Ainuelle @ 06:09 p.m., Wednesday, September 10, 2003

Eldarion and Ainuelle searched for about 10 minutes, and had no luck in finding him - which made Eldarion get a little worried. What if Arwen had found him hiding? He knew he was probably being worried over nothing - that Fengel was in the garden...but still...he and Ainuelle continued their search. And, near the back of the garden, they found Fengel.

The banned servant of the Queen was sitting on the grass leaning against a tree. He was hugging his knees with his face buried, shivering. "Fengel?" Eldarion said, releived. Fengel looked up, his face was looking pale in the gleaming moonlight. "Y-you took long enough, Eldarion!" Fengel said, glaring at him a little. Eldarion raised an eyebrow as his friend picked up his belongings. "What's wrong with you?" he asked, he could already guess - Fengel had been freaking out about getting caught. But, it turned out to be quite the opposite. Fengel frowned as he threw his cape on. "I thought someone caught you or something!" he said a little angry.

Eldarion looked at Fengel blankly. Why did Fengel make it seem like the only person that matterted was someone with royal blood? Once Fengel had his things together, and looked like he had relaxed, he faced Eldarion and Ainuelle and bowed low. "I'm sorry, Eldarion...I shouldn't have spoken to you like that."
Aragorn @ 05:10 p.m., Wednesday, September 10, 2003

Ainuelle looked at Eldarion, unsure of whether to agree or disagree. "But..." She frowned. Eldarion took her hands in his and looked straight into her eyes. "I swear to you, Ainuelle, that I will let nothing happen to you. And you will be happy away from all of this! Away from your father and my mother and ideas of betrothal...you'll be free from all of that. We will be alone, with no one to cause us any grief." Ainuelle thought for a moment, and as she did, a smile slid across her fair face. "You really think things will be that way?" Eldarion nodded enthusiastically. "I know things will be that way, Ainuelle." He kissed her hands, and then her forehead, and he pulled her close. It was silent for a moment, and then Ainuelle blushed a little and smiled. "Did you really mean what you said to your mother today?" Eldarion raised an eyebrow. "What?" Ainuelle blushed even more deeply. "About...about being in love with me...did you mean that?" Eldarion smiled warmly at her and nodded, then pulled her to him until their foreheads touched and they stood there, looking into each other's eyes. "I love you too," Ainuelle finally said, making Eldarion's smile widen as he went in to kiss her. The two kissed for a very long time, both of them forgetting that it was rather late in the evening, and that Arwen would be coming to get Eldarion for dinner at any moment. Eldarion immediately pulled away from Ainuelle when he heard the echo that only his mother's shoes could make coming down the hallway. His eyes widened, and he quickly looked at Ainuelle, swallowing hard. "Alright, we don't have long. Go take one of the blankets from my bed; I'll worry about the rest." Ainuelle nodded, and she went to do what Eldarion had asked of her. He, meanwhile, was in his closet, shoving all kinds of clothes into a little gunny sack he had from when he was a young boy. About half a minute later, he raced towards Ainuelle, took her hand, and then drug her to the window. "Come." He made himself ready to lift her out of the window and onto the ground below. Ainuelle positioned herself, and Eldarion helped her out of the window. Then the prince himself swung the sack over his shoulder and followed. It was not but several short seconds afterwards that the Lady Arwen came into the room to find it empty and the largest window open, breeze flowing into the room.

Eldarion and Ainuelle silently but swiftly made their way to the Minas Tirith citadel gardens. Eldarion had no idea in what part of the garden Fengel was hiding, and it would be quite a task to find him; the gardens were massive. Once under the cover of several tall hedges, Eldarion and Ainuelle slowed their pace a little and began searching, hoarsely whispering, "Fengel!" every couple seconds.
Ainuelle @ 03:26 p.m., Wednesday, September 10, 2003

Eldarion left Fengel's room (well, it wasn't his room anymore, really), and went out to find Ainuelle. He knew if his mother had caught him sneaking into her room to check up on her, he'd be in some major trouble, but he quite honestly didn't care, and, besides how much more trouble could he get into? He got to Ainuelle's room, and knocked on the door. "Ainuelle? It's me..." he whispered hoarsley. The princess opened the door a minute later. "E-Eldarion?" she asked shakily - afraid Arwen was accompyning him or something. Eldarion walked in, and smiled at her. He embraced her after the door was shut, and when they pulled away, Eldarion had decided when he was walking to her room, he'd tell her straight away what as going on.

"Ainuelle..." he started, "Fengel is-" Ainuelle interrutped him. "Did something happen to him?" she asked, worried for him. She had gotten to speak with Fengel a couple times, because Arwen had always sent him up to prepare various things for the princess, and she thought he was very sweet. Eldarion bit his bottom lip. "Fengel...well, he's alright...he just, er...got banished..." Eldarion started talking quickly again, before Ainuelle could say anything. "But since Fengel is going - I -" he corrected himself, "We're going with him!"
Aragorn @ 08:22 p.m., Tuesday, September 9, 2003

Eldarion stared at Fengel in shock. "But...she cannot do that...she hasn't the power..." Fengel wiped the tears from one eye, just for more to replace the old ones. "She's the queen, Eldarion. She does have the power." Fengel turned and continued packing his things. Eldarion grabbed his shoulder and flipped him around. "Why is she banishing you?! What does she believe you did wrong?!" Fengel bit his lip, reluctant to explain the queen's plan to his friend. After several moments silence, though, he broke, and he decided he would tell Eldarion. When he finished, Eldarion stood, awestruck, thinking about all that Fengel had told him. "She wanted you to...to try to take Ainuelle..." Fengel nodded a little and slung his bag over his back. He started for the door, but Eldarion stopped him. "Wait...if you're going, then I go as well." Fengel's eyes widened. "What are you talking about?" Eldarion swallowed hard and looked straight into his best friend's eyes. "You have been like my brother all of my life, Fengel. If you go, then I go as well." Fengel thought for a moment. "What about Ainuelle?" Eldarion smiled. "I'll bring her. She dislikes it here as well, you know." Fengel kept trying to think of excuses; he did not want his friend to give up royalty just to become an outcast. "What about your mother? And what would your father think?" Eldarion rolled his eyes. "Stop trying to make excuses. I'm coming with you." Fengel frowned deeply, and the two stood in silence. Eldarion would not give up, though. He did not leave the room until Fengel agreed with a smile. Eldarion patted his friend's back. "Excellent! We shall leave tonight, when my mother is asleep." Fengel nodded. "Alright. I will be outside, behind the citadel's garden. Can you find me there?" Eldarion nodded. "Not a problem. I'll see you there." Fengel agreed again, and the two parted ways. Eldarion felt excellent about everything except, of course, the little white lie he'd told Fengel. He had said that Ainuelle had hated it in Minas Tirith when he knew for a fact that she loved it, apart from the Lady Arwen, anyway. He also knew that she would not be nearly as eager to leave...
Ainuelle @ 07:54 p.m., Tuesday, September 9, 2003

Arwen raised an eyebrow, "What?" she asked, hoping she did not hear what she thought she heard. Eldarion repeated himself, with more confidence in his voice. "I love Ainuelle." Arwen stared at Eldarion for a good amount of time, and slowly she looked over at Ainuelle, and the Elf's eyes were flaming with anger. "HOW COULD YOU?! YOU'VE ONLY BEEN WITH HER FOR A WEEK!" she screamed, she kept on screaming at them at the top of her lungs, making all kinds of rude and nasty comments about Ainuelle in between, which made Ainuelle choke back tears. She even said one or two foul things about Eldarion as well. Arwen (who was getting tired of yelling at them, but wouldn't admit it) finished with this statement, "YOU'RE FATHER WILL BE HEARING ABOUT THIS!" she said, facing Eldarion, and with that, she turned on her heel and marched out of Eldarion's room.

The Queen came back in 10 seconds later, though. "Ainuelle, get back to your room." she snapped. When Ainuelle didn't do anything, the Queen yelled at her. "Well? What are you waiting for?! Go!!" Ainuelle obeyed, and Eldarion would have objected, but he knew better then to...especially when his mother was like this. Once Ainuelle was gone, the Queen, Eldarion and Fengel remained. Arwen looked at her son. "Get dressed and come eat breakfest when you're ready." she ordered. Eldarion nodded. "Yes, mother..." Arwen looked over at Fengel, gave him a look which meant 'follow me' and then walked out of Eldarion's room, Fengel following reluctantly behind.

After they were far away from Eldarion's room, Arwen turned to Fengel. She glared at him. "I am disappointed in you, Fengel." Fengel bowed. "I'm deeply sorry, Lady Arwen..." he said. Arwen was still glaring at him when he rose. "...you can redeem yourself, however." she said. Fengel stared at the Queen blankly. "And may I got about doing so, my lady?" he finally managed to ask. Arwen smiled slightly, and gave her servant all the details of her little 'plan'. She wanted Fengel to get together with Ainuelle - the Queen thought, that if Eldarion saw Ainuelle with another guy, then he'd leave her alone...

Fengel frowned, as Arwen finished. "Now go on. Go to Ainuelle." Lady Arwen wanted him to take his best freind's girlfriend? Fengel didn't budge, which got Arwen irritated. "Why are you not moving? I said to go to the Princess." Fengel didn't move. Arwen snapped at him, "FENGEL!?" Fengel took in a deep breath. "I'm sorry, my lady...but I will not." Arwen's eyes widened. "What? You dare disobey me again?!" Fengel swallowed. "I can't do what you ask of me." he said. "And why not?" Arwen demanded. Fengel looked down at his feet. "...it's wrong...and, I do not want Eldarion to-" Arwen cut him off. "You won't be seeing anymore of Eldarion or Ainuelle, so you won't have to be worrying about them!" Fengel looked up with wide eyes, as Arwen spoke. "You are hereby banished from Minas Tirith, Fengel!" Fengel's eyes widend even more. "B-but, my lady-" Arwen interrupted him. "You will be leaving by noon!" Fengel wanted to argue, of course, but Arwen had left already, and besides, he knew he'd be getting himself into even more trouble if he did...the servant slumped off to gather the few things he owned.

About an hour later, Ainuelle was still in her room, and, Eldarion was on his way to Ainuelle's room to see if she was alright. He stopped, however, when he passed by Fengel's tiny room. The door was opened a crack, and so Eldarion knew his friend was in there. He opened the door a tad, and peeked in, and when he saw Fengel piling his things on his bed, he walked in, wondering what Fengel was doing. "Fengel?"

Fengel turned, and Eldarion immidiately noticed his eyes were blurred with tears. Eldarion frowned deeply. "What's wrong? ...What did my mother do to you!?" he asked his friend, knowing his mother was behind this. Fengel was silent for a while, until he finally spoke, stuttering in between his words. "She b-banished m-me..."
Aragorn @ 05:26 p.m., Tuesday, September 9, 2003

Arwen tore open the closet door and then warily had a first look around. She took a step in (it was a rather large closet) and then pulled back a stack of cloaks. Nothing. She turned to the otherside and rested her hand on one of the jackets hanging there for a moment before pulling it back. Ainuelle, meanwhile, behind those coats, was jittering with fear; she could see the queen's shadow over her as she cowered below and closed her eyes, saying a silent prayer that something, anything would cause Arwen to turn around and forget about searching for Ainuelle. But she wasn't that lucky. Arwen ripped apart the jackets, eyes widening as she realized what she had discovered. She barked down at Ainuelle, "GET OUT! GET OUT OF THERE! NOW!!!" Ainuelle didn't move, so Arwen grabbed hold of her wrist and yanked her out of the corner of the closet, then out into the main part of her son's room. Eldarion, meanwhile, was busy trying to explain himself and make up excuses, but Arwen would not hear it. Arwen shoved Ainuelle up against a wall. "Do you not understand that you are ruining my son's future, innocence, and his mind?!" Ainuelle, hesitant to answer, stayed completely silent. Eldarion put a hand on his mother's shoulder and prepared himself to answer her. Arwen, however, just brushed him away and concentrated on Ainuelle. "What's wrong with you, girl?! Do you not realize that you have destroyed not just your own betrothal and wedding but my son's as well?! Do you?!" Ainuelle nodded a little, and Arwen continued. "The only reason you are even wasting your time on him is for a bit of pleasure while you're away from your own home!!!" Ainuelle shook her head. "N-no, m'lady...I'm n-not, I pro-" Arwen cut her off. "WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!" Eldarion, finally too fed up to watch any longer, pulled his mother off of Ainuelle. "Mother," he said calmly, trying to control his temper, "what does it matter to you whom I am with?" Arwen groaned. "Because there's no reason for you to be with her, Eldarion!!!" Eldarion swallowed hard and then made a comeback immediately. "I-I...I love her..." He said quietly.
Ainuelle @ 03:23 p.m., Tuesday, September 9, 2003

Arwen still didn't look convinced. She called to Fengel who was standing by the door way, his back facing the Prince and Queen. The servant had been praying to God Arwen wouldn't find Ainuelle, that everything would work out...but, unfortunately, he was in store for something that would make it so it wouldn't work out. He walked over to Arwen. "Yes, my Lady?" Arwen looked back at Eldarion then to Fengel. "Find the princess." she sneered, "I know she's in here." Eldarion swallowed, and Fengel tried to come up with excuses again. "But, my Lady...I should not go through Prince Eldarion's things...it wouldn't be-" Arwen shot him a nasty glare. "I order you to!" Fengel bit his bottom lip and nodded.

As Fengel walked around Eldarion's room, Arwen was staring at her son. "When I find Ainuelle, your Father and I-" she started blabbering about his punishment, until finally Fengel walked back. "The princess isn't here." he reported. Arwen stopped her talking, and rolled her eyes at Fengel. "You were not looking. You just walked around. Do not think I did not see you." Fengel swallowed and looked over at Eldarion, who still, for some reason thought Fengel had ratted on him and Ainuelle. Arwen decided to have a look for herself.
Aragorn @ 08:33 p.m., Monday, September 8, 2003

Arwen groaned deeply, her hand resting on the door handle. She whispered hoarsely, "You have one last chance to tell me what is going on, and perhaps you will save yourself much pain. Or you can choose the harder path and continue lying. What is your choice, Fengel?" Fengel wrung his hands. "I...I know that Eldarion has done nothing against your wishes, Lady Arwen. He has not been with Ainuelle since we returned to the palace yesterday." Fengel swallowed hard as Arwen turned the door handle.

Meanwhile, Eldarion caught the sound of his mother outside of his door. His eyes widened; he knew that Fengel had told what the two had been up to (which was nothing, really; they had just slept together due to the storm). Quickly, without explanation, he took Ainuelle's hand and led her over to one of his few large closets, then shoved her in and closed the doors, just in time for his mother to storm in. "ELDARION?! WHAT IS GOING ON?! WHERE IS AINUELLE?!" She stomped over to her son, teeth gritted. "ANSWER ME!!!" Eldarion swallowed hard. "I...I don't know, Mother...I was just getting dressed and ready for breakfast...I...I don't know..."
Ainuelle @ 08:27 p.m., Monday, September 8, 2003

Fengel quickly walked down the halls. He had decided to not say anything to the Queen. He knew Eldarion would be upset with him, and, Arwen wouldn't be happy either. And, when ever the Queen was upset, she almost always took it out on Fengel, and of course, the servant didn't want that.

He briskly walked back to Arwen. "Prince Eldarion is up, my Lady." he said, looking very, very uneasy. Since Arwen knew Fengel pretty well, she noticed his behaviour. She looked at him for a minute or so then finally decided to ask him something. "Fengel?" Fengel turned to her. "Y-yes, Queen?" Arwen pretened to look kind and caring. "What's troubling you?" Fengel replied quickly. "Nothing," he quickly added at the end of his sentence, "Lady Arwen...!" he bowed low. When he rised, Arwen questioned him again. "Don't lie to me, Fengel." she said, "It has something to do with Eldarion, doesn't it? You are hiding something from me." she said. Fengel swallowed. "I am not-" Arwen interrupted him, angry with him. "You're lying to me!" she shouted at him with much disapproval. Fengel frowned, he sure as hell didn't want to tell Arwen what he saw in Eldarion's bedroom, but he also didn't want to get in trouble with the Queen.

He decided to stay loyal to the one he knew most. "I'm just worried about my brother, my lady...that's all." he said. Before Arwen could say anything, the maid that was going to go walk Ainuelle up, came running in. "Lady Arwen! Princess Ainuelle is not in her room!"

Arwen looked at Fengel. "You will help me find her." she said, and Arwen, who was already guessing the princess was with her son, marched down the hallways, Fengel following behind, trying to convince her that he would find Ainuelle. "Your highness...you do not need to do this. I will find the Princess-" Arwen stopped in her tracks. "I just know you lied to me! What is that awful girl up to?! What is Eldarion doing with her?!" Before Fengel could say anything, Arwen started walking again, and in a matter of minutes, she and Fengel were at Eldarion's room.

Before Arwen opened the door, she turned to Fengel, deciding she'd be able to get a nice warm up with him, before she got to scream at Ainuelle and Eldarion.
Aragorn @ 08:01 p.m., Monday, September 8, 2003

Ainuelle blushed deeply as well. "I'm...I'm sorry..." She began to get out of bed. "I d-didn't mean to...I was just frightened...that's all..." Eldarion frowned and grabbed her arm before she made her way completely out of the bed. "No...it's...it's really okay...Ainuelle...I don't mind..." He didn't want to admit that he actually wanted her there; he thought that might make him look weak. She silently thought for a moment, biting her lip, but when Eldarion gave her a warm smile, she hesitantly climbed back in. He kissed her neck once and then looked into her eyes. "You do not have to fear anything anymore, you know." He could tell she had been incredibly tense all day, and he wanted her to settle down a little so maybe she would be able to get back to sleep. Ainuelle held the covers tightly and bit her lip again. "I...I know..." She lied. She knew that they really did have something to fear, that her father would not stop until he fought the good fight and won it. Eldarion laid down and put an arm around Ainuelle, then he kissed her neck again. "I will not let anything happen to you, Ainuelle. Never." She laid her head on his chest and held onto one of his hands tightly, not ever wanting to let go.

Early the next morning, Fengel arrived to wake Eldarion for breakfast. He knocked on the door, then entered. His eyes widened when he saw Ainuelle lying in bed in Eldarion's arms. He swallowed hard as the two woke up. "E-eldarion? W-what were you two doing?" Eldarion's eyes widened as well. "We...we weren't doing anything! Just sleeping!" He tried to explain himself to his friend, but Fengel wasn't going to be won over so easily. The young servant just turned and walked out the door, not knowing whether or not he should be loyal to his mistress and tell Arwen, or to be loyal to his best friend and not say a word.
Ainuelle @ 07:47 p.m., Monday, September 8, 2003

Eldarion started down at Ainuelle with wide eyes - surprised she had just come in his room...and his bed with out waking him, and telling him. The clashing on lightning and booming of thunder continued on, which gave Eldarion no chance of falling back asleep. He finally decided to wake Ainuelle, which he didn't want to before - because he thought she wouldn't be able to get back to sleep either. He put his hand on her shoulder. "Ainuelle?" he whispered. "Ainuelle?" he repeated. She woke up with a start, fearing that her father or someone else had found her. Eldarion jumped a bit as well, but when she saw it was only him, and he smiled, she calmed down quickly. It was silent for minute or two then Eldarion finally questioned her. "Erm...why'd you come in my bed?" he quickly added something, thinking her feelings might be hurt or something by what he just said. "I mean, I was just kinda...surprised...to find you...sleeping next to me...in my bed..." he blushed a little and looked at over at her.
Aragorn @ 07:32 p.m., Monday, September 8, 2003

Aragorn spent the next few minutes explaining things to Ainuelle, who, still in her wedding dress, was extremely confused by everything. She had her arms folded uncomfortably, make-up running down her face. Eldarion smiled at her confortingly when Aragorn finished. "You see? Not everyone is against us." Ainuelle nodded a bit and sniffled, then bowed to Aragorn. "Thank you, sir..." Eldarion just smiled and pulled her rather close to him. "You don't have to bow to him or call him sir. You'll be staying with us, and you don't need to treat him like royalty when you're living with him." Aragorn smiled a bit as well and nodded. Ainuelle managed to force a smile since the two men seemed alright with everything. She, however, concealed the fact that just because her father was not with her at the moment, she was still terrified of him.

That evening, Eldarion showed Ainuelle to her bedroom. It was massive, much bigger than the once she had at her own palace or even the one that she had stayed in when she first arrived in Minas Tirith. She looked around in awe, commenting on the beautiful bookshelves and crafted Elvish wood. Eldarion smiled at her amazement and slipped his arms around her from behind, which rather surprised her. He rested his chin on her should and whispered into her ear. "Everything is going to be alright, Ainuelle. I swear to you." She nodded a little, loving him holding her, though the fear of her father still lingered in her. She pulled away slowly and went off to the bathroom, where Fengel had prepared not only a bath for her several moments earlier, but also a sheer white cotton nightgown, folded perfectly on a shelf.

While Ainuelle was in the shower, Eldarion went to his own room to get ready for bed. He was rather surprised to find Fengel there, leaning up against one of the four tall bedposts and grinning. "Quite a scene you put on today at the wedding, Eldarion." Eldarion grinned back a little as he changed his pants and pulled off his shirt. "Well, did you expect me to let her marry him?" Fengel shook his head. "No, but I am rather surprised that the fact that your mother is unGodly furious does not bother you. That's why I came to talk with you; she wanted to be alone, no servants, no anyone. She was sobbing her eyes out." Eldarion frowned. "You're trying to make me feel guilty..." Fengel shook his head violent. "Eldarion, you know me. I wouldn't do that to you. I was just saying that I'm surprised your mother's anger doesn't phase you." Eldarion rolled his eyes. "Well I'm not. I can't believe the way she's been acting. It's horrible. She fought for years and years to be able to marry the one she loved. Why should I not have the same privelege?" Fengel shrugged and then heard Arwen call for him from down the hall. "I had better get going; good night, Eldarion." He bowed to the prince and left. Eldarion groaned after Fengel's exit; he had repeatedly, over and over, told his old friend not to bow. It made him feel horrible.

It was a horribly stormy night. Ainuelle couldn't manage to sleep. She tossed and turned as the thunder and lightning echoed and flashed outside of the humongous glass-paned windows. At about midnight, she sat up, wrapped a blanket around herself, and then made her way across the ancient, cold stone floor, and out the door of her bedroom. She tiptoed through the halls, scared she would awaken someone with a loud echo of complete footsteps. She tiptoed until she reached Eldarion's room, where she slowly opened the door (which squeaked a little, making her jump), and then over to his bed. She climbed in and layed down next to him, covering herself up and falling asleep, smiling about the fact that he was sleeping shirtless.

Eldarion, however, was sleeping restlessly as well; all kinds of haunting, gruesome nightmares about his mother murdering Ainuelle played frame by frame through his mind. He tossed and turned until he finally popped wide awake about half an hour after Ainuelle had settled to sleep beside him. The prince rubbed his eyes and yawned, then looked over in shock to see the princess asleep next to him.
Ainuelle @ 07:08 p.m., Monday, September 8, 2003

Eldarion stutterted. "But, M-mother - I'm...I'm not..." He didn't want his mother to know about his feelings for Ainuelle. "She should not have to get married against her will." Eldarion said, after he finally thought of something. Arwen raised an eyebrow. "THEN WHY ARE YOU HOLDING HER IN YOUR ARMS LIKE THAT?!" Arwen screamed. Did her son think she was stupid? Eldarion looked down at the ground defeatingly. Arwen turned to her husband. "Aren't you going to say something? Aragorn...?!" Aragorn nodded. "...I will handle this, Arwen." he looked at Eldarion - he would have smiled, but with is wife by his side, he did not. "Come Eldarion, I'd like a word with you." he said, Eldarion nodded - feeling releived that he could talk with his father about this and be away from his mother for a while. Aragorn quickly added, "And, princess. You too." Ainuelle nodded and the two follwed Aragorn to the front of the church. Arwen had followed too - but she left the cathedral once they reached the doors with Fengel who had come back in.

When Arwen left, Aragorn couldn't help but smile. "...Well done, Eldarion." Ainuelle raised an eyebrow. She hadn't expected the King to take this so well. Eldarion on the other hand, knew that Aragorn wouldn't have been so mad like Arwen.
Aragorn @ 06:51 p.m., Monday, September 8, 2003

Aragorn slowly lifted a finger and pointed towards the door. "Leave. Now." Faramir was about to argue when the king motioned to his guards, who took their swords up and pointed them at Faramir's and Jineur's chins. Faramir put his hands up a bit in surrender, then just scowled at Aragorn and, motioning to Jineur and grabbing Eowyn by the arm, exited the massive cathedral, shouting to Aragorn as he left, "THIS IS NOT THE END OF IT, ARAGORN!!!" And the cathedral door slammed. Arwen fumed at Eldarion as she tore Ainuelle out of his arms. "YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO BE HER GUARDIAN, ELDARION!!! NO HER LOVER!!!"
Ainuelle @ 05:32 p.m., Monday, September 8, 2003

As Aragorn and Arwen walked down the aisle to Faramir, Eldarion, Ainuelle and Jineur where, Fengel had been following them. Aragorn spoke as he walked more quickly. "I want everyone out of here." Fengel raised an eyebrow. "My Lord? The wedding..." Aragorn sighed. "The wedding had been cancelled." he paused, "By order of the King." Fengel was silent, but nodded. "Yes, Lord." he said and turend around to where a small group of his fellow soldeirs were to help him get all the people out of the church.

Everyone started evacuating the building just as Faramir had started hittig his daughter, and Jinuer was holding back Eldarion so he couldn't do anything. Aragorn was furious. With Jineur and Faramir for treating his son they way they had. He ran over to Faramir and grabbed the King, pulling him away from Ainuelle. "Faramir!" he shouted, not botherig to put the title 'Lord' in front. Faramir whipped around so he was facing Aragorn. "Why did you send everyone off?! I do not plan on cancelling this wedding." he paused, "It is not for you to decide!"

Aragorn frowned, and, before replying to Faramir, looked over at Eldarion, who was still being held back by Jinuer. Aragorn looked up at Jinuer. "Let of him!" he shouted, glaring at the same time. He was furious that Faramir and Jinuer showed absolutley no respect towards his son.
Aragorn @ 02:18 p.m., Sunday, September 7, 2003

Jineur stepped down beside Faramir and scowled at Eldarion. "You have NO business doing this!" Eldarion repeated what he had said before. He motioned towards Ainuelle. "The princess does not want to marry you! Can you not see this?! How idiotic can you be?!" Jineur smacked Eldarion and then shoved him back. "You would do well not to speak that way to me, boy!" Aragorn started towards the front, Arwen following him and griping about how much trouble she was going to get Eldarion into when she got to him. Faramir, Jineur, and Eldarion continued to shout at each other for several minutes, everyone in the church gasping and whispering amongst themselves. Ainuelle pulled her veil off and threw down her bouquet, then walked over and held onto Eldarion, silencing them all. The church was so quiet, in fact, that you could hear a pin drop. Aragorn and Arwen stopped in front of everyone, just gazing to see what would happen next. Jineur, however, tried to rip Ainuelle away from Eldarion, but she would not let go. She had fastened her arms tightly around the prince, not wanting to leave him. Eldarion put his arms around her as well, which broke the silence. Shouting broke out again, and Ainuelle felt a tight, tight grasp around her arm as Faramir pulled her away quickly, shaking and hitting her, trying to hurt her in anyway he could.

Dunny, sorry the post is a bit choppy. Mum took forever getting ready, so I had time to post again before we left XD Love and cheers, Britter <3
Ainuelle @ 12:33 p.m., Sunday, September 7, 2003

Arwen gasped a little and watched her son with wide eyes. "What is he doing?" she asked. As Eldarion continued to walk down the aisle, Arwen spoke again when the prince was half way to Ainuelle and Jineur. "What's he doing?! Stop him, Aragorn!" Arwen said a bit more loudly to her husband. Aragorn did nothing though, which made his wife become a little upset with him. "He's going to ruin the wedding!" Arwen kept saying things like that over and over, but Aragorn still did not do anything. Eldarion marched up the Jineur and Ainuelle, and by the time he reached them, quite a bit of murmuring was running through the church.

Faramir looked outraged. He stomped over to Eldarion and grabbed the Prince's wrist. "What are you doing, boy?!" he said with gritted teeth. The Lord Faramir had said it loud enough for almost everyone to hear, and Aragorn heard it as well. And, he wasn't happy with Faramir.

Eldarion glared at Faramir and yanked his wrist out of the King's grasp. "This isn't right! Ainuelle doesn't want to get married!!!"
Aragorn @ 11:45 a.m., Sunday, September 7, 2003

Eldarion shifted uncomfortably for a moment. "I..." He looked at the ground, then at the door, hoping Ainuelle was alright. "I do not wish for her to marry...but I know I have no power over it..." The thought made Eldarion want to cry. A little more than a week ago he had hated the princess. But now...he couldn't bear the thought of her being with someone else. Aragorn cleared his throat. "You cannot hide something such as this forever, Eldarion. You must choose; will you or will you not let her marry?" Eldarion looked at his father wide-eyed. He had never heard Aragorn talk about breaking the rules like this and having power over things that were not under his control. Aragorn had a rather sly smile spreading across his face as his son thought about what to give as an answer. "I...do not want her to marry..." Aragorn nodded. "Then I will see what I can do." He smiled and started down the stairs to go speak to Faramir. "Father?" Aragorn stopped and turnd. "Yes?" Eldarion, still looking quite embarassed, scratched the back of his head. "Please...don't tell the Lord Faramir what happened between us." Aragorn nodded. "I won't." Eldarion nodded back, and the king continued down the stairs. Eldarion sighed heavily and rubbed his face in his hands. He turned and walked into the round tower room, where he found Ainuelle leaning up against a wall, crying her eyes out. He hurried over to her and held her close. "Ainuelle...you have nothing to worry about. Nothing at all." He kissed the top of her head as she cried into his chest. Ainuelle knew how angry her father would be if he found out; she had seen him display the same anger before towards herself and her mother. He had beaten them, cursed them, condemned them. She continued to sob, but Eldarion stood and held her tightly, not wanting to let her go.

Aragorn made his way down to the chamber that the Lord Faramir was writing a letter to the commander of his battle troops in. "Lord Faramir?" Faramir turned and put away the letter. He stood and bowed to the king, though he did it robotically; Aragorn could tell Faramir hated showing him respect. Faramir had always had a bitter envy towards Aragorn because he himself had not been crowned king as his father, Denethor, was before him. "Yes my king?" Aragorn cleared his throat. "A concern of your daughter's has been brought to my attention, Faramir." Faramir raised an eyebrow. "Ah. And what is she complaining about now?" He asked carelessly. Aragorn sighed a bit. "Faramir, you know she does not wish to marry tomorrow..." Faramir rolled his eyes. "Of course I know that!" He snapped angrily. "But I do not CARE! It is not for her to decided. I am her father, and it is for me to decide what is best for her wellbeing." Aragorn frowned deeply. "You do not care about her wellbeing; you care about the money you are getting from the father of the prince." Faramir rolled his eyes yet again. "Aragorn, have I asked for your input on the situation?" Aragorn frowned even more deeply. "I am your king, Faramir, and whether you wish to or not, you will show greater respect towards me." Faramir scowled. "Get out. You have no business instructing me on the means by which I raise my daughter." Aragorn got ready to argue again, but he just sighed and walked out of the room. He knew that in a time of battle such as this, it was not best to cross with your allies.

To much of Eldarion's dismay, the wedding began early the next morning. As Ainuelle started down the aisle, she cried silently, her makeup running down her face as Jineur waiting in the front of the large church of Minas Tirith. Aragorn, Arwen, and Eldarion stood in the back of the church, Aragorn holding his son tightly by the wrist so the prince would not try anything stupid. Eldarion was in tears as well as he watched Ainuelle be escorted down the aisle by her father. Jineur was grinning from ear to ear, his chest puffed out, trying to look as noble as possible as all of the girls in the church gazed at him jealously, having no idea why Ainuelle was crying. When the princess reached the front of the church and the ceremony began, she started crying even more. In fact, everyone in the church could hardly hear the priest who was doing the ceremony, and Jineur started to get extremely irritated with his bride. So, in the middle of the vows, Faramir yanked her by the arm towards him and whispered hoarsely into her ear. "You will NOT ruin this for you or myself, I will not let you, Ainuelle. You will STOP YOUR BLUBBERING IMMEDIATELY!" And then he shoved her back towards Jineur and the priest continued. Ainuelle, though, did not stop crying.

When Eldarion saw Faramir treat Ainuelle the way he did, he scowled and yanked his wrist out of his father's strong grasp. "That's it." He muttered, and started making his way down the aisle, towards Ainuelle and Jineur.
Ainuelle @ 09:30 a.m., Sunday, September 7, 2003

When Aragorn opened the door to the Tower, what he saw was something he was not expecting at all. His son was there all right, but he was kissing Princess Ainuelle, and quite passionately, really. Aragorn just stood there, with one hand still on the handle of the door, and his eyes a little wide. After waiting for 3 minutes or so, both Eldarion and Ainuelle still hadn't noticed he had come in.

He cleared his throat, deciding to get his attention. "...Eldarion? Son?" Eldarion immdiately jumped away from Ainuelle. "F-father?!" Aragorn nodded, and couldn't fight back the sly looking smile that came upon his face. "You've been gaurding the princess well?" The King asked his son. Eldarion, who was turning more and more red (and scared) by the minute nodded. "Y-yes, sir." he replied, stutterting. Aragorn glanced over at Ainuelle, who was turning a bright red as well, and also looking worried. He raised an eyebrow at her. "Are you not to be wed to Prince Jineur tomorrow?" Ainuelle nodded stiffly. "I am..." she replied softly.

Aragorn straightened his lips. "Eldarion? I would like speak to you outside." Eldarion felt a chill go through him - he was about to get into some major trouble. Ainuelle was looking scared as well, as Aragorn led his son outside.

Eldarion shut the door behind him. Since the prince had assumed his father had only acted kind because Ainuelle was there, tried to cover for himself (and Ainuelle). "Father, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have - I just - she started crying and I - I er..." Aragorn cut him off. "She's getting married tomorrow. You knew that. And, don't forget, you're betrothed to someone as well." Eldarion groaned, "I know, father. But, Princess Ivorwen...I don't like her!" he said. He liked the fact that he could complain to his father about Ivorwen, because he could tell his father didn't like her either - and, that Aragorn only went along with it becasue his wife acted so strongly towards the bethrothal. It was silent between them for a very long time.

"Don't tell anyone...please?" Eldarion asked quitely. He bit his bottom lip and added, "It won't happen again..." Aragorn looked at his son for a long moment, making Eldarion feel uncomfortable. What would happen if the King did tell what happened? To Faramir? To his mother? Or Jinuer? The thoughts made him go pale.

Aragorn smiled and finally replied. "Gandalf said she doesn't wish for this wedding." Eldarion looked up at his father, with a questioning look on his face. Aragorn continued. "And, I quite honestly do not like the idea of a betrothal." Eldarion started to wonder what his father was thinking. "People...people should be able to choose who they marry. They should marry for love..." Eldarion noticed his father was staring at the door, looking a little sad as he spoke.

Aragon couldn't help but think of his and Arwen's relationship. How Elrond had been so against Aragorn being with his daughter. Elrond had been like a father to Aragorn, and when the Elf Lord had found out about their relationship...well, Elrond seemed to have hated him. Aragorn sighed. He wanted his son to marry for love, support his descion, and not have anything stand in the way, which was what Aragorn wished he had - it sure as hell would have made things go more smoothly with him and Arwen...

Aragorn snapped out of his trance and looked down at his son. "How do you feel towards Ainuelle? How do you feel about her betrothal?" Aragorn asked. If his son could tell him that he cared for Ainuelle - that he didn't want her to get married...mabye he would try and stop the wedding...
Aragorn @ 11:34 a.m., Saturday September 6, 2003

Gandalf sighed deeply. "The princess does not want to marry, at least not under a betrothal. Yet she has no choice, none at all. Faramir is a man of more power than he should be entitled to. But Ainuelle's marriage to the Prince Jineur is folly and wrong. She should not be forced into it." Aragorn frowned as well as they approached the gate of Minas Tirith. "Gandalf...you tell this to me as though I were able to do something." Gandalf looked over at him. "Aragorn, you have that kind of power, you know." Aragorn's frown deepened. "But even so, to use that power against another king, though I may be his superior...would create more conflict than I am willing to undergo at a time like this." Gandalf nodded understandingly. "Yes...I suppose you are right." But he didn't feel that way. He felt that if Aragorn really wanted to change things, he could. But then again, it was a time of great stress; Aragorn probably just didn't want to complicate things. Gandalf and Aragorn dismounted their horses, gave them to servants to be put in the stables, and then made their way into the the citadel and the palace. Aragorn and Arwen embraced and kissed for the longest time upon Aragorn's arrival. Afterwards, the king started down one of the long corridors of the palace, eager to find and greet his son.

Eldarion and Ainuelle were up in the highest room of the tallest tower, watching the sunset over the horizon. The two were leaning up against either side of a huge window that looked out westward, feeling amazing and fulfilled, better than either had in years. Eldarion couldn't explain what had happened to him in the past week. He had hated Ainuelle; when he had first met her, he wouldn't have given a damn WHO she was marrying. But now, with the wedding the next morning, he was horrified. He had not only gotten to the point where he could tolerate Ainuelle, but he really...well...he had never felt the way he did about anyone else in the entire world. Ainuelle was thinking almost the exact same thing at the moment, enjoying the sunset but frightened to death at the same time; she was marrying tomorrow. And at that thought, she couldn't help but begin to cry. Eldarion looked over at her in surprise. "Ainuelle? What's wrong?" She just shook her head and sobbed. Eldarion took a step towards her and swallowed hard, hesitant of what he was about to do; but he did it anyway. He wrapped his arms around her and looked her in the eyes as she cried. He swallowed again, unsure how to go about what he was doing. Hesitant, he slowly leaned down and kissed her. And to his surprise, she didn't pull away, but wrapped her arms around him as well, and she kissed him back.

Aragorn jogged through the halls, excited about seeing his son again. He stopped and looked at a servant. "Did you happen to see where the prince went?" The servant nodded and pointed towards the tower stairs. "To the western tower, lord." Aragorn nodded. "Thank you." The servant bowed low as the king jogged off and up the stairs. He grinned and opened the wooden door to find Ainuelle and Eldarion.
Ainuelle @ 09:42 p.m., Saturday, September 6, 2003

Aragorn noticed his old friends frown. "...Gandalf? " he questioned, his smile slowly fading, "Is something wrong?" Gandalf kept his gaze in front of him. He decided to tell Aragorn what was on his mind - about Ainuelle and the wedding. Maybe if Aragorn, the King of Men, would see Ainuelle didn't want to get married...well, then maybe she wouldn't have too. Afterall, Aragorn had alot more power over these things then Gandalf ever would. Maybe he could stop the wedding. After a long-lasted silence, save but the sounds of Shadowfax and Brego's hooves hitting the ground, Aragorn repeated himself. "Gandalf?"
Aragorn @ 08:19 p.m., Saturday, September 6, 2003

After a few moments in the embrace, Eldarion pulled away and looked at Ainuelle, who was still sobbing. "Why do you not tell him you want him to treat you better?" Ainuelle just sobbed harder. "I t-t-t-tried once...h-h-h-he hit me..." Anger flared through Eldarion. Maybe Ainuelle was a rude priss, but she certainly didn't deserve what had been dealt to her. Eldarion just pulled her into the tight embrace again, running a hand through her hair as he did so. The two of them spent the next several days walking around the grounds of the palace, riding horses, and different things. Eldarion taught her as many swordfighting tricks as he could, mostly because he wanted her to be in a decent mood and keep her mind off of the wedding coming up in less than a week.

Gandalf the Grey and King Aragorn rode towards Minas Tirith, both a bit bloodied and very tired, having just fought a battle. But they had won, so they were in good spirits. The two were smiling and laughing about many, many things, talking about things of old, and just good things in general. Upon nearing Minas Tirith, Aragorn smiled. "You know, the princess of Ithilien is marrying here soon. The Lord Faramir is going to want to tell you all about it when we arrive, Gandalf." Gandalf frowned; he knew Ainuelle did not want to marry, at least not due to a betrothal. And he wished with all his heart he would be able to stop it...but he knew it was impossible.
Ainuelle @ 07:36 p.m., Saturday, September 6, 2003

Eldarion was staring at the doors of the palace angirly, with his cheeks puffed out and his face going red slowly. He clutched onto Jineur's cloak, wanting to rip it up in shreds. And, surprisngly, right when Ainuelle had started crying, that was exactly what he did. When he heard Ainuelle's sobbing he froze and looked at her. "...Ainuelle...?" he dropped the cloak which was now frayed and in two peices thanks to Prince Eldarion and his rather horrible temper. "Are you alright?" he felt stupid for asking that. It was quite obvious that she wasn't alright. Ainuelle just kept crying and crying though, and once Eldarion couldn't think of something else to say, he stepped up to her and wrapped his arms around the crying princess, pulling her up to him in a tight hug.
Eldarion @ 07:05 p.m., Saturday, September 6, 2003

After just a few moments of silent waiting, Jineur and several servants arrived riding fabulous horses. He was a handsome man, Eldarion would give him that much, with woven silk Elvish clothes and shoulder-length hair, nearly as dark as Eldarion's, tied into a neat ponytail. Head held up high, Jineur dismounted his horse and stepped towards the small party gathed in the citadel of Minas Tirith. He bowed to Faramir and smiled, and the king smiled back, then took the Lady Eowyn's hand and kissed it. He did the same with the lady Arwen, then stepped over to Eldarion. He removed his cloak and handed it to Eldarion. "Take this." Eldarion muttered under his breath, scowling, "I'm not a servant, I'm a prince..." Then Jineur, ignoring Eldarion, stepped over to Ainuelle. He looked her up and down, and she stood, nearly in tears, waiting for his approval. "And your name is...what again?" Ainuelle cleared her throat. "Ainuelle, sir." He nodded. "Ah, yes, now I recall it. And you are fully prepared for the wedding, I presume?" She nodded stiffly. "Yes, sir, I am." He nodded in approval and then looked over to Faramir. "Shall we discuss wedding plans, my Lord?" Faramir smiled and nodded, then he, Arwen, Eowyn, and Jineur all shuffled into the palace, leaving Eldarion and Ainuelle outside. Ainuelle was silent for several moments, and then she burst into tears, right in front of Eldarion.
Ainuelle @ 07:01 p.m., Saturday, September 6, 2003

A long silence covered the two. Eldarion cleared his throat after a while, "I'll, uh, show you to the front..." he said quietly and walked in front of her, leading her to the front of the palace. When they got there, Arwen was standing outside (with Fengel beside her), along with Faramir and Eowyn. Ainuelle and Eldarion could both already guess they were waiting for Prince Jineur to arrive. Eldarion forced himself to give a smile to his mother, as he thought she was upset with him about not staying with the princess 'at all times'. But, surprisngly she smiled back at him, and her smile had a warm feeling to it - which would be considered rare now a days by many people. Faramir seemed to be in a fair mood as well, but Eowyn was looking depressed, which was normal, so Eldarion didn't take any notice of it.
Eldarion @ 06:24 p.m., Saturday, September 6, 2003

Ainuelle frowned and wiped the few remaining tears on her face from her eyes. "Oh...no...nothing, but thank you." She nodded, trying to polite to Eldarion; mostly because she wasn't in the mood to complain or be rude at the moment. There was a moment of silence, then Ainuelle looked up at Eldarion again. "Could you tell me where the front court of the palace is?" Eldarion raised an eyebrow. "And why would you like to know?" Ainuelle's frown deepened, and she looked away from him, out of the large window in the hallway. "Oh...well...the prince...that I'm betrothed to. He's coming today...to see me. He wants to make sure we have all of the wedding plans arranged." Her voice quivered; she was about to cry. Eldarion frowned as well. He wasn't sure why, but for some reason, it bothered him that Ainuelle was betrothed to someone...
Ainuelle @ 05:12 p.m., Saturday, September 6, 2003

Eldarion hadn't managed to sleep in, like he wanted to do, because his mother had sent someone to wake him. The man who woke the prince, was a bodygaurd to his mother at the moment. When Eldarion opened his eyes, the man spoke, "Your mother told me to wake you, Eldarion." he said. Eldarion recogzined the voice - it was Fengel, someone Eldarion was good friends with, as they had grown up together. "She says you should be staying with Princess Ainuelle at all times." Eldarion groaned, "You go watch her..." he said, his voice muffled because his face was in his pillow. Fengel laughed a little and kneeled down beside the prince. "I can't. I gaurd the Queen, remember?" Eldarion did nothing. Fengel looked around the room breifly when he spotted something he knew would catch Eldarion's attention if he took it. He grabbed Eldarion's sword which was lying right beside the prince and slowly took it out of it's sheath. "Can I borrow your sword if you will not be gaurding the princess today?" Eldarion jumped up, "NO!" he shouted and snatched the sheath and then as quickly and carefully as he could, grabbed the hilt of his sword out of Fengel's hand.

Fengel smiled slightly. "I need to get back to Lady Arwen." he paused, and watched as Eldarion put his sword back in it's sheath. "I'll see you later, Eldarion." Fengel said and bowed. Eldarion rolled his eyes. "You don't need to bow, Fengel. We're friends, and I do not wish to be treated like that, anwyays..." Fengel nodded a little. "Alright..." And with that the young soldier walked out of the room. Eldarion sighed and yawned. Even though Fengel had helped him wake up a little bit, he was still very very tired. His eyes were droopy and a little red, and his face paler then normal. He slowly got his clothes, armor and such on, and once he was ready he marched outside of the room to look for the princess.

As he walked, he started thinking about the same things he had last night, and more. Thinking about the word 'princess' he had reminded himself of who he was bethrothed to. She acted wonderfully around his parents, but when it was just Eldarion and her, she was the exact opposite of wonderful. She was bossy and rude, and it was quite obvious the only reason she wanted to marry Eldarion was for the power she would have. And she almsot always seemed to look down on him for some reason. The princess was called Ivorwen, she was an Elf and one of the last ones that was still in Middle-Earth. Arwen had decided Eldarion would have to marry an Elf, as Eldarion was immortal, like his mother, so it only made sense to marry another who was immortal. Which, quite honestly didn't make sense to him. Why did his mother marry a mortal when his mother was against Eldarion marrying a mortal? It would be the same for him as his parents, wouldn't it? She was immortal...so, why didn't she marry an Elf? Eldarion already knew. Because they loved each other. He sighed. Why couldn't he marry the person he wanted to? Why couldn't he marry for love?

Eldarion continued to walk around the castle, paying absolutley no attention to where he was going. But he did eventually run into Ainuelle, and he could tell she had been crying earlier.

As bad a mood he was in, he forced himself to show some kindess toward her. "Is something the matter?"
Eldarion @ 10:35 a.m., Saturday, September 6, 2003

Ainuelle awoke quite early in the morning, then bathed and dressed, and decided to have a look around the palace. As she walked down the halls, her steps echoed out the windows and into the sunrise of the early morning, in harmony with the songs of the birds. She had something on her mine that she had managed not to think of for a very long time; her betrothal. Her hand in marriage had been promised to a 26-year old prince named Jineur who resided in what used to be the Elvish kingdom of Rivendell. Since the elves' departure, Men had taken it over and made it their own, causing Rivendell to lose much of the beauty it had once kept. Ainuelle hated the prince. She had met him only once, but she knew what his motives were, and that they were not pure. The only reason Jineur even wanted to be with her was because she was 1) a princess and 2) beautiful. And the thought of spending the rest of her life with him made her sick. The thing that scared Ainuelle the most, though, was that she would turn out just like her mother. And that thought made her cry.
Ainuelle @ 09:03 a.m., Saturday, September 6, 2003

Eldarion sighed quickly and turned around, then sat down on his bottom. "...You should get some sleep." he said flatly and with that he layed down on his side and set his head on his pillow, and tried his hardest to fall asleep. But he failed miserably. His thoughts caused him to stay wide awake. Thoughts about his father, his mother, the war and...Ainuelle. He put his hands on his head. Why couldn't he stop thinking about her?! He would have groaned, but thinking Ainuelle was asleep he forced himself not to. He gritted his teeth - he was thinking about her again! Hours and hours later, the young prince managed to fall asleep, but when the sun rose, he ended up only getting a grand total of two hours of sleep, which wouldn't be good for anyone. Because Eldarion had been grumpy the day before, and a night with no rest certainly didn't help change his mood.
Eldarion @ 11:50 a.m., Friday, September 5, 2003

Ainuelle ran the soft sheet between her fingers for a moment, then looked up at Eldarion. "I think a real man is made by how he acts when he isn't in front of everyone that he is required to impress. Such as the way you're acting now, which I am not impressed with." This angered Eldarion even more. "You're wrong! A man is made by how much he gains and how strong he can be!" Ainuelle raised an eyebrow. "Is he really made by how much he gains? Or could it be how much he gives?" Eldarion was silenced. He had never met a woman as smart as she was; Ainuelle knew how to argue, and he had never met a woman who even dared to argue with a man. In many ways, he began to take a liking to her. But he quickly shook that thought out of his head, telling himself that he was there to guard her...not to, well, begin to like her...
Ainuelle @ 11:30 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2003

Eldarion stood up on his feet and frowned at Ainuelle. He didn't really take even one minute to come up with what he was going to say. So he just started blurting out whatever came to his mind. "I'll have you know, Ainuelle...I am a soldier, and I'm a real man!! And, I have to impress people because I'm the King's son!!" he said angirly. "If I don't behave then my Mother gets upset with me, and my father-" he slowly started to calm down on his own. "My father..." Now that he thought of it, his father rarely got upset with him. And when he did get upset it was usually over things like the argument they'd had earlier. Eldarion folded his arms and decided to slightly change what he was talking about. "...I wouldn't mind hearing what your definition of a 'real man' is, Ainuelle. Since, apparently, I'm not one..."
Eldarion @ 11:09 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2003

Ainuelle raised an eyebrow. "Oh really?" Eldarion didn't meet her eye to eye, but he could tell from the tone of her voice that she didn't believe him. "Like I said...something was in my eye...that's all..." Ainuelle sighed tiredly. "Oh..." Was all that she could manage, as she obviously didn't believe him, but she didn't want to make him feel bad. There were several moments of silence between the two, but eventually, Eldarion decided to try and break it again. "So, I guess that I am going to be your guardian for a while. I guess we should at least try to get along," he said, though he was rather skeptical about it. Ainuelle looked skeptical as well. "Well, if you want us to get along, then you're going to have to get rid of at least a little bit of your pride." Eldarion looked taken aback. "What do you mean?" Ainuelle continued, smiling a little. "You try to impress too many people; you should start trying to be less of a soldier and more of a real man." Ainuelle stood, then softly climbed into her own bed. Eldarion stood and scowled at her, getting ready to tell her exactly how wrong she was.
Ainuelle @ 11:09 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2003

When Eldarion questioned her blushing it only caused Ainuelle to go even more red in the face. She pouted a little though. "Nothing! I'm not embarassed of anything...!" she answered quickly and a little sternly. Eldarion smiled faintly. She wasn't like any of the girls he'd met. When a sheet a silence overcame the two, Eldarion started getting a little nervous himself. What could they talk about? They had to have something more in common then being royalty, didn't they? Why couldn't he come up with something to say?! Eldarion started thinking with all his might, hoping a good topic for a conversation who pop into his head...but it turned out that Ainuelle came up with something first. "...Why were you crying?"

Eldarion looked over at her slowly. "I wasn't," he bit his bottom lip and came up with the best excuse he could think of. Though it was a pretty a lame one at that. "...I had...something in my eye."
Eldarion @ 09:10 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2003

Ainuelle couldn't sleep at all that night, partially because she was so upset with her father that it wasn't even funny, but also because she couldn't seem to be able to ignore the sounds of Eldarion rustling the sheets on the floor at the foot of her bed. But then she heard a noise she did not expect; small, nearly silent sobs. She sat up and looked over the edge of the foot of the bed, and Eldarion was lying there, his face buried in his pillow, crying. She frowned and bit her bottom lip. She was upset with him, yes, and she also hardly knew him. But she also didn't want him to cry all night long. She slowly and lightly stepped out of bed and tiptoed over to where he was, knealing down beside him and brushing the hair out of her face. "Are you...alright?" Eldarion looked up from his pillow immediately, his eyes wide. He wiped his tears quickly and put on a fake tough voice, quite shaky though he tried to make it stern. "O-of course I am! What are you doing out of bed?!" Ainuelle looked quite taken aback. She bowed her head and started to get up. "I'm sorry...I did not mean to...to upset you..." Eldarion looked up at her, finishing wiping tears from his eyes, not wanting her to know he was being so much less than a real man at the time. He aggravated her so, and she was stuck up. He thought so, anyway. But for some reason he didn't want her to leave. "Princess, wait..." Ainuelle turned around, standing there in her sheer white nightgown. "My name is Ainuelle." Eldarion corrected himself, suddenly feeling as though he was making himself look like a fool in front of her. "I apologize...Ainuelle, you don't have to leave. I did not mean to be cross with you." Her face softened a little, and she thought for a moment about whether or not to sit beside him. They never tore their gazes away from each other for those few silent seconds as she pondered to herself.

Ainuelle eventually gave in and slowly sat down in the pile of blankets and sheets that Eldarion had been sleeping in. He thought for a moment about what to say to her. "I...er...how do you like the palace so far?" he asked, in hope of redeeming the image he had made for himself. Ainuelle pulled her knees up to her chest in the darkness, moonlight shining on her golden hair through the window. "Oh, I-I think it's nice. Much larger than my father's castle. And homier, too." She couldn't really think of anything to say, so she turned slightly red. Eldarion smiled a little. "What are you so embarassed of?"
Ainuelle @ 08:31 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2003

Eldarion fell on the floor, angry with his mother. He was highly doubting that anything would happen to Ainuelle. Nothing had happened to the Queen...so why would anything happen to the princess? He rolled his eyes, and started thinking about everything and anything that had been bothering him in the past week or so. Which was mostly his father and mother.

But, when he started to get into some serious thinking about his father...he could help but regret the way he acted earlier. What if his father was...killed in battle? His father was a wondeful swordsman, the best of the best, Eldarion thought personally. But sill, there was always that chance...and the last conversation he'd had with his father was an argument. He frowned deeply, his anger slowly leaving him and sadness started to flow through him instead.
Eldarion @ 06:40 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2003

Ainuelle, now incredibly hurt, just remained silent. She turned and began to unpack what few dresses she had, sniffling a little. When she had first seen Eldarion, she had really, really hoped he have a decent personality. He had the looks to go with it. She smiled a little at the thought that he was rather adorable, but she couldn't seem to shake the horrible mood she was in as Eldarion left, slamming the door behind him. Ainuelle yawned, then looked ou the window. It was already dark outside; she had noticed how long the journey to Minas Tirith had taken. She got her pajamas on, deciding to go ahead and skip out on dinner. She felt like talking to no one. She just wanted to be alone. She crawled into bed and covered her head up with the pillows, crying a little. About an hour later, as she still cried, Ainuelle heard the door swing open. "Who's there?" Her muffled voice from underneath the pillow inquired. She heard Eldarion groan. "My mother says that I have to sleep in here. She says I have to guard you 'properly'." He scowled and shoved his pillows down on the floor. Ainuelle said nothing. She just quickly wiped the tears from her eyes; she couldn't let him see her cry.
Ainuelle @ 06:20 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2003

Eldarion rolled his eyes before turning to face Ainuelle. He looked at her blankly for a moment, thinking of what to say. "...Welcome to the palace." he said boringly, and turned, intending to get out of the room this time. Ainuelle, still with her hands on her hips glared at him. "You're very rude, you know. Especially for the son of-" Eldarion gritted his teeth and whirled back around interrpted her. "You're the rude one!" he snapped.
Eldarion @ 05:46 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2003

Eldarion grumpily set Ainuelle's things down on her bed and motioned towards the double doors out of the large room. He boredly said, "If you need anything, I'll be four doors down the hall. The restroom is six doors down. And I shall come tell you when it's time for dinner." He turned around and began to walk towards the door. Unsatisfied and still incredibly upset with her father, Ainuelle put her hands on her hips and raised an eyebrow. "Excuse me, please, I don't mean to be rude, but is that all you have to say? No 'welcome to the palace' or anything?" She looked quite hurt, really. Ainuelle was so tired of people ignoring her that she wanted to scream.
Ainuelle @ 05:22 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2003

When Aragorn and his men where out Eldarion's sight (which meant they were very far away - Eldarion had inherited many of his mother's Elvish gifts), he turned on his heel, mutterting to himself, very upset with his father. Why couldn't he fight?! He sighed. The prince already had a very good idea of why his father didn't want him going along. His father was afraid. Afraid of loosing him. He kicked the ground - he was still very angry. Eldarion got back inside only to be greeted by his mother, Arwen.

"Eldarion?" He looked away from the ground. "...Yes, mother?" he asked, his teeth gritted. Arwen sighed. "Please behave youself. Lord Faramir will be arriving shortly..." Eldarion nodded stiffly. Arwen continued, "Gaurd the princess well." He nodded again. "I will, mother." he said with a dull tone, wishing she would go away and leave him alone. Arwen started to depart, but she quickly turned around. "You accomponied your father on his depature?" Eldarion nodded again. "Yes." Arwen left after a long silence between them.

A bit later, Eldarion still hadn't cooled down his level of anger that much when Faramir, Eowyn and Ainulle had arrived. Which wouldn't be a good thing for anyone. After greeting Faramir and Eowyn as well as Ainulle he was told to show the princess to her room. He led her through the stone hallways of the castle, carrying the few things she had brought with her.
Aragorn @ 04:26 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2003

Ainuelle sat behind her father, riding along towards Minas Tirith on the king's horse, loosely holding onto him as they went. She hated him. She wasn't even allowed to ride her own horse. "Children and women should be seen and not heard, and they should never try to do the things God bestowed upon men," he would often preach to Ainuelle when she tried to ride one of the horses in the stable, or when King Faramir would catch her practicing her swordfighting in her room alone. Ainuelle hated her father. She loathed him for so many things. Not only for what he had made her life become, but what he had done to her mother. Eowyn, the queen, rode on a small horse behind Faramir and Ainuelle, her head bowed, her face palid, her eyes grey and lifeless. Eowyn's life was as dull as possible; the queen did nothing but obey the orders given to her by her husband from day to day. They were a torn family, all because of her father. Yes, it was true, Ainuelle hated him.

They continued to ride along through the hills towards the great city of Minas Tirith, watchmen riding along as well so there would not be an ambush by wargriders on the way. The days were dark and the skies black, thunder and rain instead of the sun shining, and Mordor looming ever larger in the minds of all who lived in Middle Earth. The tears of women and children seemed to be heard from everywhere as they would learn news of their sons or husbands or fathers dying by way of hellish beasts unleashed from the dark land. Ainuelle had been thinking about all of these things when she came back to reality from hearing her father's voice from right ahead of her as the castle of the citadel in Minas Tirith began to take its place in the horizon. "Ainuelle, are you listening to me?" She blinked a few times, still coming back to reality. "Oh, yes, father. I apologize." Faramir sighed. "There is no hope for your concentration, I swear it. You will prove useless to any man who wants to marry you if you continue to act the way you normally do. But as I was saying to you before I had to remind you to concentrate..." She scowled, glad he was in front of her and couldn't she her face. Faramir continued, "...you are expected to to be on your best behaviour, and to act like a lady during your stay in the Minas Tirith palace. The Lord Aragorn is doing us this favor out of the goodness of his heart, and he should not have to worry about dealing with your inconsideracy. He has sent word to me that a room has been prepared for you, and a bodyguard assigned to you to protect you at all times."

"FATHER! It isn't fair! You trained me yourself! You've SEEN WITH YOUR OWN EYES how skilled of a fighter I am!" He shouted in frustration. Aragorn held up a hand, sighed, and spoke calmly. "We've been over this before, Eldarion. You know quite weel you're not coming into battle with the rest of us-" As he put on his armor and prepared to leave with the troops of Gondor and Rohan, the Lord Aragorn was cut off by his son once again. "BUT I CAN FIGHT!" Eldarion argued, sweat all over his face and blood boiling. "YOU KNOW I CAN FIGHT!" Aragorn rarely ever got angry, but he was on the verge of it at the moment. "Eldarion-" His son cut him off again. "I'M EIGHTEEN YEARS OLD! I SHOULD HAVE THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE WHAT I WISH TO DO! AND YOU CAN'T-" Aragorn whipped around towards his son quickly and began to shout. "DO NOT TELL ME WHAT I CAN AND CANNOT DO! I AM YOUR FATHER, AND YOU WILL LISTEN TO WHAT I TELL YOU!" He calmed a little, though still extremely firm. "You will remain here and guard the princess." Eldarion nearly objected, but he knew that once his father had shouted, it was best not to cross him. "Yes, sir," he said quite simply, standing up straight and properly. Aragorn mounted his horse with the other men and looked back at his son before departing. "I love you, Eldarion. I would not know what to do without you." And with that, the Lord Aragorn rode off, the wind of the horses flying into Eldarion's face as he proudly but half-heartedly bowed good luck to those going off to war.
Ainuelle @ 04:17 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2003

The Story
After the War of the Ring, after the departion of Frodo Baggins across the Sea to the Undying Lands, 20 years later there is a new threat in Middle Earth: the Dark Lord is once again forging his kingdom in Mordor, recruiting orcs, wargriders, horrid men, and beasts fit for Hell. But the Kingdom of Men, now alone due to the departion of the elves of Middle Earth, is attempting to defeat the Dark Lord. Their success is vital to the survival of Middle Earth.

The Cast
Ainuelle is a 16-year old princess of the forest kingdom of men outside of Minas Tirith. She is the daughter of Faramir and Eowyn, and she can be a bit of a rebellious girl, just because of how incredibly controlled she is by her parents.

Aragorn is the king of Middle Earth, residing with his wife, Arwen, and son, Eldarion, in the citadel's palace of Minas Tirith. He's a noble fighter and husband, having lived through many, many things in the past.

Supporting Characters
Eowyn is the wife of Faramir and the mother of Ainuelle. Instead of being a confident beauty as she once was, she is now always incredibly stressed out, ordered around by her husband, and unable tell him how unhappy she is because of how timid she's become.

Eldarion is the son of Aragorn and Arwen, also a trained warrior, and the prince of Middle Earth. He has been pampered all of his life, and he's hated it. He loathes being a prince, loathes all the attention he gets. Especially all the attention he's getting from the snotty princess he's betrothed to.

Arwen is the wife of Aragorn and the mother of Eldarion. She has changed much over the years; she was once a kind, graceful queen. But years of war and despair of caused her to be great and beautiful, yes, but also rather awful.

Gandlaf the Grey is a wise old wizard who knows nearly everything about Middle Earth, having been alive to witness a good deal of it. He is now shunned by most men, as they call him crazy, but for the adventurous and rebellious heart of Ainulle, he's the most loyal friend in all the world.

Eomer is the King of the Rohirrim. He resides in Meduseld, still as glorious and brave of a warrior as he once was. He and his sister do not get along so well anymore, mostly because of Faramir's controlling of Eowyn, leaving Eomer quite lonely much of the time. One of the largest concerns of his anymore besides his people and battle training is his only neice, whom he keeps watch over though they live rather far apart.