Chapter 10 Chapter 6 King of the Golden Temple

They rode through sunset and twilight, and into the darkness of night.When at last they dismounted and rested, even Aragorn felt his whole body ache.Gandalf only gave them a few hours to rest. Legolas and Gimli took the time to sleep. Aragorn lay on the ground and looked at the sky. dynamic.Everything was silent, and when they woke up again, there were many clouds in the night sky, drifting in the cold wind.Under the icy moonlight they continued on their way, as fast as they had been during the day. Time passed slowly, and they were still on their way without stopping.Gimli began to bow his head, and if Gandalf hadn't caught him and shook him awake, he might have fallen off his horse just like that.Tired but proud, Hasselblad and Arold followed their tireless leader, chasing the gray shadow faintly visible in the night.The moon set into the cloudy west, and the scenery on both sides was quickly forgotten.

A chill seeped into the night sky, and the darkness in the east slowly faded to gray.Red dawns shot out from the Eminmore Highlands behind them.Dawn has come, and a gust of wind blows, making all the weeds on the road bow their heads.Suddenly, Shadowfax stopped walking with his head held high and hissing.Gandalf pointed ahead. "Look!" he yelled.Everyone opened their tired eyes and looked intently. In front of them was the big mountain in the south. The top was covered with white snow, and there were black traces in it.The grasslands extend all the way to the foot of the mountains, and finally enter the many valleys that have not yet been illuminated by the sun, hidden in the heart of these high mountains.Right in front of these passers-by, this vast grassland spread out like a bay between mountains. In the distant mountains, they vaguely saw a lone peak standing at the entrance of the valley, like a sentinel standing firm on its post.At the foot of that mountain there was a silvery river, and nearer to the bank they caught a glimpse of a golden light in the light of dawn.

"Speak, Legolas!" said Gandalf, "tell us what you have seen!" Legolas reached out his hand to shield the blinding dawn, and took a closer look. "I saw a stream of melted snow," he said, "flowing out of the shadows in a valley, and to the east there was a green hill surrounded by a ditch and a thorn fence. There seemed to be many houses there, and in the middle of a green field, there was a huge palace built by human beings. It seemed to me that it had a roof made of gold, and the light shone on the surrounding cities. Its pillars and gates are also golden. There are many armored men standing guard around the palace, but the others are still in sleep."

"The city is called Edoras," said Gandalf, "and the golden palace is called Medusi, where Theoden, Lord of the Hussars of Rohan, dwelt. We came with the dawn, The way is also very clear, but we must proceed more cautiously, because the fire is imminent; no matter how it looks from a distance, these horse kings are always on the road. Standby alert state.Don't draw your arms, and don't offend the other party. We will wait until we come to the throne of Theoden. " When a group of people came to the river, the morning light was very bright, and the birds were chirping.The turbulent river flows all the way into the plain, turns a big bend at the foot of the mountain, flows eastward, and merges into the bed of the Shumu River covered with weeds.The land was verdant, with weeds dripping with dew, and low-hanging willows growing along the banks of the river.In this southern land, the willow branches have begun to turn red, and you can feel the approach of spring.Beside the many willow trees is a ferry that has been trampled by horseshoes. The four of them crossed the stream and embarked on a wide road leading to higher ground.

On that walled hill, the road wound around many high, green hills.On the west side of these small hills, the grassland is as white as the first snowfall, and small flowers bloom in it like countless stars. "Look!" said Gandalf, "how beautiful are the bright eyes of these meadows! They are called dahlias, and in the land of Men they are called heart-shells, for they bloom all year round and grow in the The resting place of the dead. Beware! We have come to the place where the former kings of Theoden lay." "Seven mounds are on the left, and nine mounds on the right," said Aragorn. "A long time indeed has passed since the Golden Palace was built."

"Five hundred times the maple leaves turn red in our Mirkwood," said Legolas, "but for an instant to our eyes." "But to the hussars, it was a very long time ago!" said Aragorn. "The rise of the royal family has become a legend recorded in ballads, and the exact date has been lost in the mists of history. Now, They call it home, and the language is different from that of their northern brethren." Then he began to sing a song in a language neither dwarves nor elves had heard, although the meaning of it was unknown to the two of them, but Attracted by that special melody, I listened attentively. "That is the language of the Hussars, I suppose," said Legolas; "it sounds like the land, rich and flat, but tough and serious as mountains in some places. But I really can't figure out the meaning of it, I can only feel that it is full of sadness that life is short and time is impermanent."

"This is the translation into the Common Tongue," said Aragorn; "I have done my best. Where are the horses and knights now? Where is the bugle now? Where are the helmet and armor now, Where is the flowing blond hair now? Where is the spring, the farming, the golden corn? Everything falls like fine rain into the mountains, Like the breeze blowing the grassland; The years hide in the west, Hide in the haze behind the mountains. Who can take back the annihilation of the dead wood fire, Or retain the passing years beyond the sea? A long-forgotten poem in Rohan, how tall and handsome young Io was, who came from the north on horseback, and his steed Fellerov, whose hoofs the king of horses seemed to ride The four wings of the wind, people will still sing the praises of their own horses in the evening. "

During the conversation, the party had crossed these silent tombs, followed the winding path to the hills, and at last they came to the high windswept wall and the gate of Edoras. There sat many men in bright chain mail, and when they saw them approaching, they jumped up and blocked the way with their spears. "Stranger stop!" they shouted in Hussar, demanding that the visitor identify himself and why he came.There was curiosity in their eyes, but not much friendliness, and all looked gloomily at Gandalf. "I know your language well," he replied in the same language. "But ordinary strangers rarely do this. If that's the case, if you want to get answers, why don't you ask questions in the common language of the West as usual?"

"My king Theoden orders that no one enter this gate unless he is an ally of my country and understands our language!" replied a guard. We do not welcome anyone other than those of Fortress and Gondor. Who are you, who come boldly from the plains in strange clothes, and ride upon steeds like mine? We have watched you for a long time. We have never seen such a strange knight, let alone this otherworldly horse. Unless our eyes are blinded by spells, it must have the blood of the king of horses. Show who you are, and you A wizard sent by Saruman, or a phantom created by his magic? Say it!"

"We are not phantoms," said Aragorn, "and your eyes are not mistaken. It is indeed the steeds of your land that bear us, and I suppose you knew that before you spoke. Horse thieves cannot ride to a stable in good faith. .This is Hasufon and Arold, the third marshal of the Hussars, Eomer, generously lent us two days ago. We kept our promise and brought these two horses back. Has Eomer returned yet? , told you that we are coming soon?" There was a trace of struggle in the guard's eyes: "There is no news about Eomer!" He replied: "If what you said is true, there is no doubt that Theoden should have known about it. Perhaps someone I have already anticipated your appearance. Just two days ago, Master Qiaoyan came to us and conveyed King Theoden's order not to allow strangers to pass through this gate."

"Smart talk?" Gandalf looked sharply at the guards. "Stop talking! My mission has nothing to do with smart talk. It is the King of Hussars who I want to meet. Time is short. You can inform the king that we have arrived. Is it?" His eyes under the brim of his hat flickered as he stared at the guard in front of him. "Okay, I will," the other party replied slowly, "but what name should I tell my king? You look old and tired on the outside, but I think you are actually It's shrewd and capable." "You see well, and you speak well," said the wizard. "I am Gandalf, and I have returned. Look! I have brought back a steed. This is Shadowfair, and only I can tame it; By my side is Aragorn, who is of royal blood, and his destination is Mundenberg; next to me are the elf Legolas and the dwarf Gimli, who are our companions. Go and see yours Master, tell him that we are waiting at the gate and want to talk to him, and hope that he will allow us to enter his palace." "The titles you gave are really not something ordinary people can have! I will report them to my lord and ask him what he thinks." The guard said, "Please wait here later, and I will pass on his instructions to you all. Don't expect too much! These are dark times." He left quickly, leaving his colleagues to guard the group of strangers. He returned shortly after. "Come with me!" he said. "Theoden gives you permission to enter, but any weapon you carry, even if it's just a staff, must be left at the door. They will keep it for you." The black gate opened immediately, and a group of people followed the guides and walked in in a row. In front of them was a broad road, covered with cobblestones, leading to the hill, and mixed with many well-designed stairs.They passed many wooden houses and dark doors, and there was a channel with a spring flowing beside the road, and at last they came to the top of the hill. There on a green level rose a high platform, from which a spring spouted from the mouth of the sculptured horse's head, and flowed into a wide pool, and finally into the channel below.There was a tall and broad stone staircase above the green grass, and on the left and right sides of the highest step were two thrones carved in stone, surrounded by other guards, who drew their swords and placed them on their knees.Their golden hair was tied in thin braids and hung over their shoulders; the sun shone brightly on their green shields, their breastplates were polished as mirrors, and when they stood they stood taller than men many. "The palace is in front of us," said the guide, "I have to go back to duty, goodbye! May the Hussar King treat you well!" He turned around and left quickly, and the others began to climb up step by step under the scrutiny of the guards.The guards stood in silence until Gandalf stepped up the last step.At the same time, they greet each other in their native language with clear voices. "Stop, travelers from afar!" they said, turning the hilts of their swords toward the visitor in a sign of peace.Green gemstones sparkle in the sun.One of the guards stepped forward and spoke in Common. "I am the gatekeeper of Theoden," he said, "my name is Hama, and please give me your weapons before you enter the gate." Legolas handed him the silver-handled knife, quiver, and longbow: "Keep safe!" He said: "These are weapons from the Golden Forest, handed down to me by the queen of Lothlorien. .” Surprise flashed in the man's eyes, and he hastily placed the weapon against the wall, as if in awe of these things. "I assure you, no one will tamper with these weapons," he said. Aragorn hesitated for a moment. "It is not my style. I will not let Anduril go, or give it to anyone." "This is Theoden's order," Hama said. "Even if he is the king of hussars, I am not sure whether Theoden's order can override the wishes of Aragorn, Crown Prince of Gondor, the direct descendant of Elendil." "Even if you sit on Denethor's throne, this is also Theoden's palace, not Aragorn's," Hama hurried to the door, blocking the way of the crowd.He had drawn his sword, pointing at the strangers. "There is no point in such a quarrel," said Gandalf. "Theoden's request is unnecessary, but it is useless to refuse him. The king, whether wise or foolish, ought to carry out his orders at court." "Indeed," said Aragorn, "if I had not the sword of Anduril in my hand, I would have obeyed my lord, even if it were a commoner's hut." "Whatever this sword is called," said Hama, "if you do not wish to face all the subjects of Edoras single-handedly, I beg you to place it here." "He's not alone!" Jin Li stroked the blade of the battle axe, looking sharply at the guard in front of him, as if he was a sapling about to be felled, "He's not alone!" "Don't be impulsive, don't be impulsive!" said Gandalf. "Don't hurt your kindness, we should be patient. If our swords meet, the taunt of Mordor will be our only reward. My task is urgent, loyal Hama. , this is my sword. Keep it safe, it is called the Fencing Sword, and it was forged by the Elves of old. Let us pass. Aragorn, hold on!" Slowly Aragorn untied the holy sword, and laid it carefully against the wall. "Here I put it," he said, "but I command you not to touch it, nor anyone else. In the scabbard of this elf lies the broken and reforged Holy Sword. Tower of the Artificer Ercha forged this divine weapon in ancient times. Anyone who tries to draw this sword will die on the spot except the sons of Elendil." The guard took a few steps back and looked at Aragorn in shock: "Your Excellency seems to be a character who came from ancient times on the wings of legend; as you wish, my lord!" "Well," said Gimli, "if my ax had Anduril as its companion, it wouldn't be a pity for it to be here," he put the weapon on the ground, "well, if everything is in order, Please allow us to meet your master." The guard still hesitated.He said to Gandalf, "Your staff, please forgive me, but leave it at the door too." "Stupid!" said Gandalf. "It's one thing to be careful, but quite another to be rude. I'm old, and if I can't walk across with my stick, I'm going to sit here and wait for Seo King Dun himself came out and talked to me!" Aragorn laughed. "Everyone, it seems, has something he is unwilling to give to another. But it is cruel to deprive an old man. Come, let us go in!" "A staff in a wizard's hand may be more than just a sign of age," Hama said.He looked carefully at the staff in Gandalf's hand. "However, in this situation, self-respecting people will leave everything to wisdom. I believe that you are allies of our country and people who value honor. At the same time, you will not have any evil intentions. You can go in." The guard lifted the heavy latch of the gate, slowly pushed the creaking gate open, and a group of people walked in.It felt dark and warm inside after breathing in the crisp air of the hills.The hall was very long and wide, full of shadows and dim lights, the high roof supported by huge columns, and many rays of sunlight from the east-facing windows illuminated the place.Looking out from the skylight in the roof, there is a clear blue sky above the looming clouds.After the eyes of the four gradually adapted to the brightness of the room, they discovered that the floor was laid by many colorful stones, with many strange runes and various patterns engraved on them; at this time, they also discovered There are rich patterns on the pillars, faintly flashing golden reflections.There are many brocades hanging on the walls, and in the gaps between the brocades, there are many legendary figures strutting, some faded with age, and some look very lonely in the shadows.But one pattern is dotted with dazzling sunlight: a young man on a white horse blowing a horn, his golden hair blowing in the wind; Seeing the flames of war in the distance, green and blue water splashed between its knees. "Beware, that is young Io!" said Aragorn. "In such a state he rode from the North to join the battle in the Field of Celebrant." The founding of the Kingdom of Rohan began in 2510 of the third era. At that time, the army of Gondor was fighting hard on the Plain of Celebrant. A nomad led by Eo passed by and rescued the army from the crisis. .In order to thank them for their help, Gondor assigned an entire province of land to them and made them an independent ally. This is the founding of Rohan. history. The four companions walked forward, crossing the raging flames burning in the center of the hall.At the other end of the main hall, facing the north entrance, is a three-step platform, and in the center of the platform is a huge throne.On the throne sat a man whose old appearance made one almost think he was a dwarf; his white hair was long and thick, crowned with a crown, and underneath many long braids of white hair, in the In the center of his forehead hangs a diamond.His snow-white beard fell all the way to his knees, but there was still a twinkle in his eyes, shooting mercilessly at strangers.Behind his throne was a woman in white, and on the steps at his feet sat a haggard man with a pale, worried face and squinting eyes. Everyone fell into silence, and the old man on the throne did not move.At last, Gandalf spoke: "Nice to meet you, Theoden! I am back. Beware! The storm is coming, and all allies must gather, or they will all be crushed." The old man stood up slowly, leaning almost all of his body weight on a wooden stick with a black and white bone handle.Everyone noticed that although he was hunched now, he must have walked like a dragon and a tiger when he was young, full of the air of an emperor. "Hello!" said he, "perhaps you expected me to welcome you. But truth be told, Mr. Gandalf, I have been stingy with your welcome. You have been the harbinger of bad omens, and trouble is like a raven. Follows you as well, often much faster than we figured. I don't need to lie to you, when Shadowfax returned, I was glad to see him again, but even happier that his knight was missing. When Eomer came back to inform me of your passing, I did not mourn for you. Unfortunately, news from afar often leaves nothing to be desired. You have appeared again! As always, you are bound to bring worse Why should I welcome you, Gandalf the Wizard? Tell me!" He sat back slowly in his seat. "My lord, what you said hit the nail on the head!" said the pale man sitting on the high steps, "We only learned that your right-hand man, the second marshal of the hussars, Prince Hiyod died in battle five days ago. Sirohan. Eomer is not trustworthy. If you let him take power, there will be no one to guard your palace walls. Moreover, we have just learned from Gondor that the Dark Lord is stalking in the east again. This Wanderers choose this time to show up. Mister Gandalf, why should we welcome you? I will call you Bad News, and bad news is as unwelcome as bad guests." He laughed gravely, and lifted his With heavy eyelids, he looked at these visitors with black eyes. Gandalf said softly: "My old friend said, there is no doubt that you are considered a wise man here, and the king also relies on you very much. There are two possibilities for the person who brings bad news every time. He may be an evil servant, or he may be in a crisis. A brave man who stepped forward.” He said, "Perhaps! But there is a third kind of person, the corpse eater, who takes pleasure in the sorrow of others and the spread of war. Old wizard, what have you done to help us? How will you help us this time?" The last time you came to ask for our assistance. At that time, the king asked you to choose any horse and leave as soon as possible. You have chosen Shadowfax rudely. My Lord is very sorry for this, but as long as it can let you leave the border as soon as possible , the price is worth it. I think this time will probably be the same as last time. You have come to beg for our help. Do you bring reinforcements? Horses, swords, spears? This is what I call a helping hand , is what we really need right now. Who are these servants behind you? Three homeless men in gray clothes, you look like a beggar's head yourself!" "Theoden son of Sejel, the manners of your court seem to have regressed a great deal," said Gandalf. "Has not your gatekeeper returned the name of my companion? It is seldom a king of Rohan's honor to receive such a man." Three honored guests. The weapons they put before your door are worth a thousand horses. They wear gray clothes because of the kindness of the elves, so that they can escape the power of darkness and come to you through many dangers .” "Then, as Eomer said, are you allied with the Witch of the Golden Forest?" said cunningly, "No wonder, that forest is full of deceit and deceit." Gimli was about to step forward, but Gandalf's hand grabbed his shoulder.He had to stop and stood stiffly. In Lorien, in the Golden Grove In the forest where mortals rarely come, Few mortals ever saw the light, Eternal and unchanging, dazzling and flickering light. Galadriel!Galadriel! Your well is famous for its cleanliness; Stars shine in the hands of pure white jade, The immaculate forest is noble. In Lorien, in the Golden Grove In the beautiful woods that mortals cannot understand. Gandalf sang the song softly, and suddenly his expression became serious. He threw away his tattered cloak, straightened his chest, no longer leaned on his staff, and said in a cold and clear voice: "The wise man only tells the truth he knows. Grema, son of Garmod, you have degenerated into an ignorant maggot. Shut up and stop playing with your three-inch tongue. I have experienced the test of fire and death, not to waste time with servants In the debate, Tianlei will prove my anger..." He raised his cane high, and there was a rumbling thunder, and the sunlight from the east window was covered by dark clouds. The whole hall seemed to be suddenly shrouded in night, and the flames turned into weak embers.All they could see was Gandalf, a tall and formidable man in white, standing in front of the ashes. In the darkness, everyone heard a hoarse voice saying, "Your Majesty, I have warned you not to let him bring in his cane! That fool Hama betrayed us!" A blinding glare flashed, and lightning struck roof.Then everything was quiet, and Qiaoyan lay on the ground motionless. "Will you hear me, Theoden son of Sejel?" asked Gandalf. "Do you need help?" He pointed his staff aloft to a skylight.The darkness receded in an instant, and a high clear blue sky could be seen through the opening. "Not everything has been covered by darkness. Hussar King, don't lose heart. What I can offer is unparalleled power in the world. The desperate will not be able to get advice from me. But I can still give you advice and give you guidance. You hear Is it? Some words are not allowed to be said to others, please step out of the gate and look into the distance. You have been huddled in the shadows and only listened to this guy's one-sided words for too long!" Theoden slowly left the chair.The hall was once again filled with faint light.The woman behind him walked quickly to his side and supported him; the old man walked down the stairs tremblingly and walked weakly towards the door, Qiaoyan still lay motionless on the ground.They came to the door, and Gandalf knocked hard on it. "Open the door!" he yelled, "The Hussar King is coming out!" The door opened with a bang, fresh air swarmed in, and a breeze blew into the hall. "Send your guards down to the bottom of the stairs!" said Gandalf. "And you, madam, leave him with me for a while, and I will take good care of him." "Go, Princess EOWIN!" said the aged King. "The time for fear is past." The woman turned around and walked slowly back into the hall.As she passed the door, she glanced back; her eyes were full of concern, and when they rested on the king, they were filled with pity.She is very beautiful, her long hair is as gorgeous as a river of gold, and her tall and thin body is wearing a white robe and a silver belt. A woman of royal blood.Aragorn saw the beauty of Eowyn's daughter Eowyn in daylight for the first time, thinking that she was as cold as the morning mist, not yet faded from the youthfulness of a girl; and she also found him in an instant: the tall crown prince, Exuding weather-beaten wisdom and wearing a gray cloak, she could sense a hidden power in him.She froze for a moment, then turned around quickly and disappeared in front of everyone. "My lord," said Gandalf, "look at your land! Breathe the air of freedom once more!" From the great porch of the palace they could see the land of Rohan stretching all the way to the horizon, and the wind and rain were beginning to fall slowly, and the sky to the west and overhead was still rumbling with thunder, and lightning was raging on the distant hills.But the wind quickly turned to the north, and the storm from the east began to subside slowly, drifting south to the sea.Suddenly, a ray of sunlight burst through a hole in the clouds behind them; the drizzle shone like silver threads in the sunlight, and the distant river shone like reflective glass. "It's not dark outside!" Theoden babbled. Gandalf replied: "Indeed, you are not so old as some people suggest, throw away your crutches!" As soon as the king let go of his hand, the black cane fell to the ground.He straightened up slowly, as cautiously as a servant who had bent over for a long time.Now, he stood tall; his blue eyes sparkled as he looked at the sky. "The dreams I've had lately have been dark," he said, "but I feel like I've been born again. If you'd come earlier, Gandalf, I might have woken up. I'm afraid the timing of your arrival may not be It will be too late, and you will only see the end of my royal family. I am afraid that the magnificent palace built by Io will soon be gone. The flames will engulf the throne of my country. Can I Do something? " "You have many things to do," said Gandalf, "but call Éomer to the palace first. I suppose you should put him in prison at the slander of Grima, who calls himself a smooth talker. ?” "Yes," said Theoden, "he defied my orders and openly threatened to kill Grima in the palace." "Those who love you will not love Wise Words and His Advice," said Gandalf. "Maybe, I'll do what you say. Call Hama over. Since he's not fit for the post of gatekeeper, I'll let him run errands, and let the wrongdoers lead the wrongdoers to trial!" Theoden's voice was very dignified, but he saw a smile on Gandalf's face, and many lines that had been born of worry were smoothed away by this smile and disappeared. When Hama was called to carry out his orders, Gandalf took Theoden and seated himself on a stone chair, and then on the top steps, while Aragorn and his companions stood near by. "I don't have time to tell you everything you should know," said Gandalf, "but if my predictions are correct, I can tell you all before long. Be careful! You are about to face a double-chance but lo and behold! At least I have rescued you from the snare of lies, and you are alive again. Gondor and Rohan are not alone, and the enemy is more powerful than you think Be strong, but we have a silver lining that he doesn't know about." Gandalf's tone grew more and more urgent, and his voice was now so low that no one but the King could hear him speak.But everyone could see that Theoden's eyes became brighter and brighter, and finally he stood up with incomparable momentum, and Gandalf also stood up, and the two looked east side by side. "Yes!" said Gandalf in a strong, powerful voice, "Yes! Our hope is there, but our greatest fear is also there. We are at stake, but if we can hold our ground a little longer, There is still hope.” Everyone also turned their attention to the east.Their thoughts crossed the continuous grassland until the end of their sight, and then continued to cross the mountains to the dark mountains in the Land of Shadows.Where is the bearer of the ring?The hanging hair is still in jeopardy!Legolas, who has excellent eyesight, seemed to see a white flash, which may be the light of the sun shining on the tower of the garrison in the distance.Farther away, a small tongue of flame ignited. It was still far away, but it was the most urgent threat at present. Slowly, Theoden sat down again, and the weariness in his body seemed to be still against Gandalf.He turned and looked at the majestic palace. "Ah!" he said, "why did evil choose to come at this moment, after half my life in war has been at peace! Woe to Boromir the brave! The young die, while the old live and grow old." He said Grab the knees with wrinkled hands. "If your hand could hold the hilt again, I believe they will be restored to their former strength!" said Gandalf.Theoden stood up and reached his waist, but he couldn't touch the sword. "Where did Grima get my sword?" he murmured. "Take this, Your Majesty!" said a hearty voice, "This will serve His Majesty forever!" The two men hurried up and stood on the lower steps.The person in front of him was Éomer. He had no helmet or armor, but only a sword in his hand.He knelt down and put the hilt of his sword into the king's hand. "How could this be?" said Theoden sternly.He turned around and looked at Eomer, who was surprised by the vitality that had not appeared in him for a long time, and looked at him blankly.Where is the old man curled up on a throne, or walking with a cane? "It is on my own account, my lord," said Hama, in a trembling voice, "I know that Eomer will be set free, and that I may have blundered with joy; but since he is set free, he is Marshal of the Hussars, I can only obey and hand over his sword to him." "Just to bring it to your throne, my lord!" Eomer said respectfully. Theoden was silent for a moment, looking at Eomer kneeling in front of him, neither of them moved. "Won't you take the sword?" asked Gandalf. Theoden stretched out his hand slowly.As soon as his fingers touched the hilt, in the eyes of the beholders, the energy seemed to return to his hand in an instant.He took up his sword sharply and swung it in the sun, and then he roared; and in a voice so powerful, he called out the order to prepare for battle in the language of Rohan. Arise, arise, knights of Theoden! The evil awakens, and the darkness in the east appears. Prepare your horses and sound your horn! Sons of Io march forward! The Janissaries thought they were summoned and rushed forward quickly.They watched the king's transformation in amazement, drew out their swords at the same time, and put them at the king's feet. "Follow my king's decree!" they said in unison. "Long live My King Theoden!" cried Éomer. "It is great to see you restored to life! Never again, Gandalf, will we say that you are the bearer of bad news!" "Eomer, my nephew, take back your sword!" said the king. "Go, Hama, and take back my own sword! Grima took it away, and brought it before me. Now, Gandalf, you say you have advice to give me if I will listen, and your advice is..." "You have done what I suggested!" Gandalf answered: "Thou trustest Eomer, and ceased to confide in a smooth-talking man; forgot regret and fear, and concentrated the will in the present. As Eomer suggested, send all thy forces at once westward Going forward, we must seize the opportunity to destroy Saruman's threat first. If this battle fails, we lose all. If we succeed, there is another goal to achieve. In the meantime, all your remaining The people, including women, children, and the old and the weak, must hide in the mountains. They must have prepared for this evil day! Let them pack supplies, but don't let them delay for treasure, their lives are worth it.是最珍贵，也才是最危险的。」 「我现在觉得你的建议果然很好，」希优顿说：「让所有的子民都准备好！至于我的宾客们──甘道夫，你说得对，我的宫殿之中礼仪荡然无存。你们一整夜马不停蹄，现在都快中什了，而你们居然未曾阖眼、粒米未进。在你们用过餐之后，我们应该替你们准备客房，让你们好好休息。」 「不需要，王上，」亚拉冈说：「不管我们多么疲倦，都还不能休息；洛汗国的战士必须今天就出发，我们得带著斧头、圣剑和长弓跟著一起出发，骠骑王，我们带这些武器来并非是要在您的宫墙上休息的。我也答应了伊欧墨，我将会和他并肩作战！」 「胜利的希望这下才真正来临了！」伊欧墨说。 「只是希望而已，」甘道夫说：「别忘记，艾辛格依旧十分强大，还有其他的威胁正在不断的靠近中。希优顿，不要拖延，在我们出兵之后，快点带著子民们躲到山中的登哈洛去！」 「不，甘道夫！」国王说：「你不知道自己已经彻底医治好了我的心病，我不会照你说的做，我将御驾亲征；若有必要，我将不惜战死沙场，这样我才能够安息！」 「那么，就算洛汗国战败，也将成为史诗中最壮烈的篇章！」亚拉冈说。站在附近的士兵们敲击著武器，大喊道：「骠骑王御驾亲征！骠骑万岁！」 「但你的子民，绝不能同时失去战斗和引导他们的力量，」甘道夫说：「谁将代替你管理和指引他们？」 「在我走之前我会想出答案的，」希优顿回答：「我的谘询大臣可不就来了吗？」 就在同一时间，哈玛再度从大殿中走了出来，在他身后被两个人左右驾著的是巧言葛力马。他的面孔极为苍白，他的眼睛在阳光下忍不住不停地眨眼。哈玛跪下来将一柄收在包覆黄金，镶有绿色宝石的长剑晋献给国王。 「王上，这是西鲁格因，您的家传宝剑！」他说：「是在他的箱子里面发现的，他极度不愿意交出钥匙，箱子里面还有许多其他人弄丢的东西。」 「你说谎，」巧言心虚地说：「这柄宝剑是你的主人亲手交给我保管的。」 「现在这主人又再度向你要这柄剑了，」希优顿说：「你有意见吗？」 「当然没有，王上，」巧言说：「我心心念念都只为您的福祉和安危著想，王上，千万别累著或耗费太多力气，让其他人来打点这些不速之客吧。您的什餐已经快准备好了，难道您不想要用餐吗？」 「我当然会，」希优顿说：「把这些客人的食物放在我的桌上，大军今天就开拔。派出传令！召唤所有居住在附近的战士，命令所有能够使用武器、拥有马匹的男子，在正什过后两小时之内集结在城门口！」 「王上！」巧言大喊著：「这正是我所害怕的，这个巫师对您下了魔法！难道没有任何兵力留下来，保卫我王朝代代相传的黄金宫殿和财宝吗？难道没有人要留下来保护骠骑王？」 「如果这是什么魔法，」希优顿说：「也比你的谗言要让我感觉舒服多了。你不断地吸取我的精力，最后终有一天会让我退化成四脚走路的野兽。不！我们一个人都不留，连葛力马也一样，葛力马也得骑马上阵。去吧！你还有时间打点一切，清理你宝剑上的锈痕！」 「开恩啊，王上！」巧言趴在地上哀嚎著：「请饶恕为您鞠躬尽瘁的小人物，千万别把我派离您身边！至少在其他人都离开的时候，我将会寸步不离地守护你。别将您的忠仆葛力马赶走啊！」 「我特别对你开恩，」希优顿说：「我不会把你遣离我的身边，我将会御驾亲征，我要求你和我一起出阵，证明你的忠诚。」 巧言仔细地打量每个人的脸，他的眼神彷佛野兽在猎人的包围中寻找出路似地绝望。他用苍白的长舌舔著嘴唇：「这样的决心，果然只有伊欧子嗣的国王才会拥有，即使他已经年老力衰了，」他说：「但是，真正敬爱他的忠臣会考量到他的年纪。我看得出来，现在已经太迟了，某些不会因我王驾崩而难过的人已经说服了他。如果我不能揭穿他的阴谋，王上，请至少听我一言！您至少该让一名了解您的想法、服从您的命令的人留在伊多拉斯。指派一名忠诚的仆人管理此地，请让您的大臣葛力马替您保管一切，直到您回来！我祈祷您将会安全回来，虽然没有多少人认为这是可能的。」 伊欧墨哈哈大笑道：「如果这样的建议无法让你躲避战争的话，最尊贵的巧言先生，」他说：「你会接受什么比较低贱的工作吗？如果有人愿意让你背负粮食上山，你会接受吗？」 「不，伊欧墨，你对巧言先生的诡计还是没有完全理解，」甘道夫将锐利的目光转向巧言：「他非常大胆、工于心计，即使在这种绝望的边缘，他还是在玩弄诡计，而且还换取了我宝贵的时间。跪下，毒虫！」他突然间用震耳欲聋的声音大吼：「跪下来！萨鲁曼多久以前就买通了你？他承诺的价格是多少？当所有的人都死去之后，你才会拿走这些宝物、带走你想要的女人吧！你那双眼睛已经在她身上，不知游移打量了多久！」 伊欧墨握住剑柄。「我早就知道了！」他喃喃道：「光是为了这个原因，我就甘冒禁律，在大殿中斩杀他于剑下。但我还有其他的原因足以杀他──」他大步向前，但甘道夫伸手示意他稍安勿躁。 「伊欧玟现在已经安全了，」他说：「但是你，巧言，你已经替你的主人尽力了，或许你最后终将可以换到一些奖赏；不过，萨鲁曼以不守信用而恶名昭彰，我建议你最好赶快前往，提醒他不要忘记你忠贞的为他牺牲奉献。」 「你说谎！」巧言无力地反驳道。 「这三个字也未免说得太轻松、太频繁了吧！」甘道夫说：「我不说谎。希优顿，你看，这就是你王朝中的毒虫！为了你的安全，你不能带他走、也不能把他留下来，处死他并不算过份，不过，有时最明显的解决之道并不是最好的方法。他曾经是你的部下，为你做了不少事，给他一匹马，让他自己爱往哪里去就往哪里去；从他的选择中，你将知道他的为人。」 「巧言，你听见了吗？」希优顿说：「眼前是你的选择：和我一起上战场，让我们看看你的忠心在战斗中是否经得起考验；或者是现在离开我们，随你爱去哪里！不过，如果我们有机会再相见，我将不再开恩。」 巧言慢慢地站起来。他半闭著眼睛看著所有人。最后，他的目光落到希优顿身上，彷佛准备说些什么。突然间，他站了起来，双手抽搐著，怨毒的眼神让四周的人不由自主地后退。他露出满嘴的利牙，对著国王的脚边啐了一口，接著狂奔下阶梯。 「去追他！」希优顿说：「不能让他伤害任何人，但也不要弄伤他或是阻拦他！如果他想要的话，可以给他一匹马。」 「那还必须要有马愿意让他骑才行，」伊欧墨忿忿不平地说。一名守卫奔下阶梯，另一名守卫跑到水井边，用头盔盛了满满的清水，用来洗乾净巧言弄脏的地面。 「客人们，来吧！」希优顿说：「让我们把握时机，享受仓促之下所能准备出来的餐点吧！」 他们再度走回宫殿中。此时，他们已经可以听见传令兵在底下的城市中宣布集合，备战的号角也开始吹响了，只要城内的居民和附近的人们都集合完成，国王就会马上出发。 在国王用餐的地方坐著伊欧墨和其他四名客人，负责侍奉国王的则是伊欧玟。他们用餐的速度很快，当希优顿询问甘道夫有关萨鲁曼的情报时，其他人都沉默不语。 「谁猜得到他到底多久之前就背叛了我们？」甘道夫说：「他并非自始就是邪恶的，我相信他曾经是洛汗国之友，甚至当他的心肠逐渐变黑的时候，他也觉得你们还有利用价值。但他已经暗中计画毁灭你们很长的一段时间，只是戴著友谊的假面具，等到他准备好为止。在这些年里面，巧言的工作很简单，你的所作所为都会被立刻回报到艾辛格去，因为当时你的国境是开放的，陌生人可以自由来去。巧言则是不停地在你耳边进献谗言，毒害你的思想、冷却你的热情、削弱你的活力，其他人则只能眼睁睁地看著这一切发生，因为你被巧言玩弄在股掌之间。」 「但是，当我逃出来之后，我警告了你，那张友善的面具在明眼人之前被揭穿了。在那之后，巧言被迫只能在剃刀边缘讨生活，不停地想办法拖延，阻止你集合所有的兵力。他的心机很重，有时扩大人们的恐惧、有时玩弄人们的警觉。你还记不记得他是多么迫切地说服你不应该浪费兵力在北方边境的巡逻上，应该把重兵驻守在西边？他说服你禁止伊欧墨猎杀那些入侵的半兽人。如果伊欧墨没有违抗你被巧言欺骗而下的命令，这些半兽人将会带著他们劫掠来的惊人成果，抵达艾辛格。那成果并非是萨鲁曼最想要的，不过，我们队伍中的两名伙伴不只将为此牺牲，更可能断绝我们的另一线希望──请王上见谅，现在我还无法告诉你那究竟是什么希望。你能够想像我的同伴们受尽折磨的痛苦，或者是萨鲁曼得知我方弱点时的得意狂妄吗？」 「我亏欠伊欧墨许多，」希优顿说：「忠言逆耳啊，果不其然。」 「这么说吧，」甘道夫说：「对于遭到蒙蔽的人来说，真相或许反而是比较丑陋的。」 「的确，我完全遭到他人的蒙蔽！」希优顿说：「贵客们，我能够摆脱这个命运都要感谢诸位，你们又再度即时伸出援手。在你们离开之前，请任意挑选礼物，我绝不会吝啬。除了我的宝剑之外，任何一样我朝的宝物都可以送给你们！」 「我们还不知道这次的援手到底是否即时，」甘道夫说：「至于你所说的礼物，王上，我选择一项十分实用的礼物，请将影疾赐给我！你之前只是将他借给我，但我现在必须骑著他和黑暗对抗，在阴影中射出一丝银光，我不敢用任何不属于我的生命来冒险。而且，我们人马之间已经有了密不可分的感情。」 「你很聪明！」希优顿说：「我很荣幸可以将他送给你。这是项十分宝贵的礼物，没有其他的马匹比得上影疾。它彷佛是古老的神驹复生一般。从今以后，可能再也不会有这么伟壮的骏马了。至于其他的贵客们，我可以提供兵器库中的一切给你们。你们不需要刀剑，但我的库藏中有刚铎赐给我先祖精工打造的盔甲，在你们离开之前请记得挑选所需要的盔甲，愿它们协助你们战无不胜！」 人们从国王的宝库中，拿出盔甲来替亚拉冈和勒苟拉斯穿戴。他们选择了头盔和圆盾，盾牌的边缘装饰著黄金，镶上了绿红白三色的宝石。甘道夫不用穿盔甲，金雳也不需要洛汗的锁子甲，即使洛汗国的宝库中有符合他身材的盔甲，也不会有任何一件比得上他在北方山脉之下打造的甲胄。不过，他还是挑选了一顶镶铁的皮帽戴在头上，以及一面小圆盾，圆盾上面有著绿底的白马标记，那是伊欧皇族的家徽。 「愿你好好使用它！」希优顿说：「那是我父命人在我少年时打造给我的。」 金雳鞠躬为礼。「骠骑王，能够使用您的盾牌我觉得很骄傲，」他说：「我宁愿背马，也不愿意骑马。事实上，我比较偏好用脚走路。不过，或许有一天我能够遇到在平地上和人作战的机会。」 「很有可能！」希优顿说。 国王站了起来，伊欧玟立刻拿著醇酒走上前。「向希优顿致敬！」她说：「饮下这杯中的酒，纪念这欢乐的一刻，愿你们身体永保健康！」 希优顿从杯中喝了一口，她接著将杯子递给每一名客人。当她站在亚拉冈面前时，她突然停下脚步，楞楞地看著他，眼中闪动著莫名的光芒。当他看著她美丽的面孔时也不禁露出微笑，可是，当他接下酒杯，手无意间碰触到伊欧玟的玉手时，他可以清楚地感觉到对方的颤抖。「敬亚拉松之子亚拉冈！」她说。「敬洛汗国的王女！」他回答，但脸上的笑容已经在瞬间敛去。 「各位听我说！这次亲征可能是我最后一次的出战，」希优顿说：「我没有子嗣，吾儿希优德已经战死沙场，我宣布外甥伊欧墨未来成为王储，继承我的王位。如果我们两人都无法生还，国民们可以按照自己的意愿选出新领袖。但是，现在，我必须将我的国民交给一位值得信任的人带领。谁愿意留下来？」 No one spoke. 「你们没有任何中意的人吗？我的子民究竟信任什么人？」 「他们信任的是伊欧王室。」哈玛回答。 「但是我舍不下骁勇善战的伊欧墨，他也不会愿意留下来，」国王为难地说：「而他是王室的最后一名成员。」 「我指的不是伊欧墨，」哈玛回答：「他也不是最后一名王室成员，还有伊欧玟，他姊姊的女儿。她十分勇敢，活力充沛，全国的人民都敬爱她。让她在我们离开的时候，担任洛汗国的领袖吧！」 「就这么办！」希优顿说：「传令下去，伊欧玟公主将率领他们！」 国王坐了下来，伊欧玟从他手中接下了一柄宝剑和一顶美丽的皇冠。「再会了，王女！」他说：「这是个危机四伏的时刻，但或许我们还有机会回到黄金宫殿。不过，登哈洛的人民需要有睿智的领袖带领他们，而万一这场战争失败了，逃回来的残兵也会需要你的保护。」 「千万别这么说！」她回答道：「您不在的时候，我将度日如年。」不过，当她这样说的时候，目光悄悄地飘向亚拉冈。 「国王会归来的！」他说：「别害怕！我们的真正威胁不在西方，而是在东方。」 国王接著和甘道夫并肩走下阶梯，其他人紧跟在后。在通过宫门的时候，亚拉冈回头望了一下，伊欧玟孤单地站在门口，她手握著剑柄，将剑支在面前；她披著闪亮的锁子甲，在阳光下浑身发出银光。 金雳扛著斧头，走在勒苟拉斯身边。「呼，我们终于出发了！」他说：「人类每次要做什么事情总是会说一大堆话，我的斧头都等得不耐烦了，不过，我并不怀疑这些洛汗人在战斗时的能力。真可惜他们习惯的作战方法和我不同，我要怎么和他们并肩作战？我希望可以用双脚走路，而不必像一袋行李似地在甘道夫的马鞍上弹来弹去。」 「我想，那位置比大多数人都安全多了，」勒苟拉斯说：「不过，当战斗开始的时候，甘道夫或是影疾都会很高兴能够摆脱你的，毕竟斧头并不适合骑马作战。」 「矮人不是天生骑士，我适合砍断半兽人的脖子，而不是替人类剃头。」金雳拍著斧柄说。 到了城门口，他们发现已经有一大群老老少少的人骑马集结完毕了，眼前至少有超过一千名以上的战力，他们的长枪罗列起来，如同浓密的树林一样惊人。当希优顿走上前的时候，众人都不约而同地大声欢呼。有些人前来领著国王的座骑雪鬃，有些人则是替勒苟拉斯和亚拉冈牵马。金雳局促不安地皱著眉头，伊欧墨领著自己的马走到他身边。 「你好，金雳！」他大喊著：「你还没有信守承诺，让我在你的身边聆听温柔有礼的话语。但我们可否暂时将争执放到一边？至少我不会再说森林女皇的坏话了。」 「伊欧墨啊，我可以暂时忘记那次的不愉快，」金雳说：「但如果你未来有机会亲眼目睹凯兰崔尔女皇，你一定要同意她是世界上最美丽的女子，否则我俩的友谊将就此结束。」 伊欧墨说：「就这么说定了！但在那之前请暂时原谅我，为了表示歉意，我恳求你和我一起上战场。甘道夫和骠骑王并肩共骑，如果你愿意的话，我的座骑火蹄将搭载我们两个。」 「非常感谢你！」金雳十分高兴地说：「如果我的同伴勒苟拉斯愿意和我们一起共骑的话，我会很高兴接受您的好意。」 伊欧墨说：「就这么办！我的左边是勒苟拉斯，亚拉冈在我右边，这个组合将无人能挡！」 「影疾呢？」甘道夫问。 「在草地上散步呢！」众人回答：「她不让任何人碰他。你看，她就在河边，像是柳树底下的阴影一样。」 甘道夫大喊著座骑的名字，吹了声很响的口哨；远方的影疾昂首嘶鸣，如同飞箭一般冲向集结的部队。 「这就像西风吹过一样，影子自然出现在眼前。」伊欧墨看著骏马奔到巫师面前时说道。 「看来这礼物已经自己送到你面前了。」希优顿说：「注意！我在此宣布我的客人甘道夫，将永远是我国最睿智的谘询者、最受欢迎的漫游者、马队的贵族、洛汗国的领袖；我在此，郑重地将马中之王影疾献给他。」 「感谢你，希优顿王！」甘道夫说。他随即抛开灰色的斗篷，丢下帽子，一跃而上马背。他并不穿戴盔甲，白色的头发在风中飞舞，白袍在阳光下闪闪生光。 「白骑士驾临！」亚拉冈大喊道，所有的人都跟随著一起喊。 「吾王与白骑士！」他们大喊著：「骠骑出发了！」 号角声响起，马匹纷纷提起前蹄应和，长枪敲击著盾牌。国王一挥手，洛汗国的劲旅就如同 疾风奔雷一般驰向西方。 伊欧玟孤身一人站在寂静的皇宫门口，看著草原上枪尖的反光。