Previously:
They stood at the battlement, Legolas wrapping both of them in his long cloak, and watching the stars overhead. As they turned to head back to her chamber, Legolas opened her hand and placed the green leaf brooch of Lórien in her palm.
"My Lord, it's beautiful," she smiled.
"You are beautiful, my Lady. The brooch of Lórien will give you peace while I am gone. It will also hold the promise of my return."
"I'll wear it always, thinking of when I'll be back in thy arms again."
"Legolas," she whispered.
"Yes, Éowyn?"
"It is not in my nature to speak words of emotion, even when I wish to, and even though you deserve to hear them. I am the White Lady, and I must be fierce and strong for my people. All must not see me as a mere woman, but as a regent, swayed not by sentiment, and driven only by the glory of Rohan. In private, my Lord, in these quiet moments where only you are permitted to see me, I am different. I am thy betrothed. Please believe me when I tell thee that I have never been happier in all my life, and I love you with all my heart, Legolas."
"Éowyn nin," Legolas smiled, kissing her softly. "What you feel, my Lady, be assured that we are the same."
Chapter 4:
Orthanc, Isengard, Third Age, Gwaeron, 3019
They found Orthanc in good hands indeed. The great ironworks of Saruman had been taken down. The Ents had flooded the large fires in the pits below and the machine of War that had been wrought now stood silent and smoking. Legolas saw it first. He calmly met Gandalf's gaze and nodded in the general direction, not wanting to raise any suspicion. The Palantir were known to Elvenkind, but in the wrong hands they could be extremely dangerous. Saruman himself had fallen victim to Sauron through it, and Legolas would not touch it. Gandalf gathered it up in his cloak, and they continued to rummage about the site.
"Laddy, what are these?" Gimli threw a set of armour at Legolas. He studied the pieces. Ancient runes were written on the face of the mithril, with delicate chain links sewn underneath.
"They're bracers, of Elven design, but I have not seen a pair crafted in such a style in many years."
"They may have been the spoils of capture. The Orcs would have brought them here," Aragorn commented.
"They're much too small for any of us," Gimli huffed.
"I think I know who could put them to use." Legolas put them into his pack and continued on.
Amid the foodstuffs and weapons that they found, there were various chests of gold and jewels. Legolas frowned at the thought of entire villages, clans and families destroyed by the Uruk-Hai, their life's possessions brought back to Orthanc to be melted into liquid metal to arm the next legion of Orcs. He gathered what arrows he could, finding many of Gondorian and Elven make, which he much preferred to the black darts of the Orcs he had been forced to scavenge.
"We should bring some of this to Rohan. They may belong to the villages of the Westfold that fell."
"Here, Legolas," Aragorn handed him an intricate bracelet, made of interconnecting bands of silver with large green stones embedded all around it.
"It's jade," Gimli commented. "A rare jewel. Found mostly around the Misty Mountains."
"The silver is likely from the veins of the mountains, and the jade is green like the leaves of Lórien. A very suitable token, wouldn't you say?" Aragorn smiled and winked at Gimli knowingly as Legolas turned away.
Legolas approached Gandalf as he finished talking to Treebeard. Legolas did not think he would ever get used to seeing actual trees walking around and speaking. He presented the bracers and jewelled bracelet to Gandalf. The wizard ran his staff over them and smiled at Legolas.
"They are not enchanted by any dark magic, my boy. The bracers are interesting. The runes are older than I would have thought. This tree represents the Dúnedain, and this leaf is for the Elves of Lindon, who dwelt in Eriador. These are puzzling. They date back to before the fall of Angmar."
Legolas nodded and put the items away. Before he turned, he regarded Gandalf thoughtfully.
"Gandalf, do you think I am being foolish? Will the Valar punish me for my choice?"
"Oh my boy," Gandalf smiled. "I do not believe the Valar are concerned with thy choice, at least not that I have seen. How it all plays out in the future no one can know, but there are worse things in this world than the love of one creature for another."
Legolas nodded and left the White Wizard, somewhat embarrassed, but grateful as well.
He returned to the gatehouse and the Hobbits were organizing their supplies with Gimli, preparing for the ride back to the Riddermark. Legolas was already prepared to leave. He was glad they had not encountered any more Orcs in Isengard, and he was eager to return to Edoras.
He looked up and realized Aragorn was looking at him with a peculiar expression. After several moments, he understood that his friend was getting ready to tease him.
"What? You're the one who said I should take pleasure when I can."
Aragorn laughed. "Oh, I certainly approve, Legolas. I just did not realize that you are so fixated on trying to be like me that you would even pursue a mortal relationship in thy quest."
Legolas huffed and Aragorn laughed again. They both became serious as Aragorn waited patiently for Legolas to speak his mind. They had not spoken in private for some time and there was much to discuss.
"Do you think me naïve or only childish? Expecting a Princess of Rohan to love me?"
Aragron smiled. "If you are naïve at all, it does you credit. A lesser man would have conjured any number of reasons to not pursue such a prize."
"I have debated it, certainly," Legolas said ruefully.
"Mellon nin," Aragorn replied. "Look around you. Death comes for us, Legolas. It comes in the pits below, from the Uruk-hai hordes that were born here, from this blade, or that bow, or that axe. Immortality does not imply invincibility. So, if you are concerned about the Doom of Men, then know this. Éowyn will have fourscore or more years of her life left to live, if the Valar wish it. Would you rather not spend any of that time with her, when we both know you have spent centuries of thy life not having known a love as powerful? Think of it! You have possibly known more joy in the past weeks than in the last 1,000 years of thy life, mellon nin."
Legolas smiled and nodded. "You will be a wise ruler someday if you weren't so stubborn."
"And you will be a fine King as well, that is if you don't spend thy days as the consort of the Princess of Rohan."
"You mortal pest!" Legolas grappled with Aragorn and they both laughed.
Meduseld, Edoras, Rohan, Third Age, Gwaeron, 3019
"An Elf…"
Éowyn turned and looked at Éomer. He had caught up to her as she walked the promontory around the Golden Hall. She smiled at him.
"An Elf, what?" she asked.
"An Elf," he shook his head. "Is thy betrothed. Never did I imagine such a thing."
"And what did you imagine?" she teased. "That I would pledge myself to an Earl, or a Baron, or a Royal from Gondor or Dol Amroth? Did you think me incapable of choosing my own husband, and that I would merely wait and be told who I would marry?"
While her tone remained light, Éomer could detect the bitter feelings buried beneath. He sighed and returned her knowing smile.
"Nay, sister. I know how such a duty would vex thee. I only am surprised by thy choice. Make no mistake, Lord Legolas is a fierce warrior, and he has convinced me of his prowess and defeated the doubts that I once held of the Eldar. But he is Elfkind, Éowyn. I suppose I did not think you would find him…"
"Find him what?" she asked, her eyes narrowing.
"Harumph…attractive," Éomer said quietly.
Éowyn looked at him and rolled her eyes, a gesture that she reserved only for him.
"Brother, we shall not speak of such matters. It is not proper for any man to ask of my feelings, even thee. I will admit, however, that upon his arrival at Edoras, I did not view Legolas as a suitor. How could I? He is an Elven Prince, and little do we know of their ways. But we have shared so much in such a brief time, I feel I know him better than some Men who I have known all my life. Our bond, which began with the courtesy of Court, and grew to friendship and counsel as he allowed me to know him, was tested by battle at Helm's Deep and shall be further tested in the days ahead. It is love now, brother; a love I have never felt before. I do not pretend to believe our journey together shall be easy, but it shall be joyous. I am convinced of that."
Éomer smiled as they continued walking in silence. Éowyn would stare out over the City walls and look to the far road, watching for any sign of riders returning to the Capital.
The ride back to Edoras was brisk. The Ents were watching Orthanc, and there would be strict orders for the Rohirrim to recover what they could from the site, but to not venture anywhere near the dark Tower. Aragorn took Halsufel into a gallop when he saw the Golden Hall in the distance. He knew Legolas was eager to return, and he did not want to raise Gimli's ire when he knew his friend would break Arod into a gallop.
Éowyn stood on the stone stairs of Meduseld. She had scanned the road each day, waiting for a sign of her Lord's return. She knew it was a few days' ride to Isengard, and she did not know if he would find battle there. She had been very busy upon her return to Edoras. They had arranged for the wounded to be tended and there had been burials, far too many, for the victorious dead. She found she was full of energy, and she had needed it. Even though the Rohirrim had survived, she could see the despair in her people's eyes. They had never encountered such a force as the Orcs. She could see her people's resolve faltering. She wondered herself, when would they be called to War once again?
She played with the leaf brooch that was pinned to her dress. She wore it each day, and even her maids were whispering about it. She had been claimed by an Elven Prince they gossiped. She could only smile at the rumours. How things had changed for her in such a short time.
When Théodred died, she had almost lost all hope. Only Éomer's firm resolve had steadied her in those days. Wormtongue's taunts and lustful glances had become almost unbearable, and she had found herself hoping almost that War would come to Edoras, so she could take up her sword and charge forward to a death of her choosing. Now, they had resisted against all odds at Helm's Deep and the threat of Orcs was far on the horizon. There would still be War and there would be battles to fight and loved ones in danger to agonize over. But there was something else for Éowyn now; something precious yet strong, new yet familiar, delicate yet all encompassing. She had hope.
She saw them as a blur at first, and she had to look for a long moment to confirm that there was gathering dust on the road, and four horses. Shadowfax was clear to anyone's gaze, his bright flanks seeming to shine in the sun as he bore down on Edoras. She smiled. Legolas had come back.
They were greeted by the King and Éowyn had to restrain herself when Legolas climbed the stairs to the Golden Hall. She only smiled demurely and nodded towards him as he acknowledged her, before she followed him dutifully inside.
The Halflings were introduced, and she could scarcely believe the adventures they had seen. Gandalf then said he would be riding to Gondor, and he believed War would come there shortly. Théoden was still bitter over the lack of aid that Denethor had given the Westfold and he wondered aloud whether Rohan would be able to answer any call. Gandalf admonished him, and urged him to think on his warning over night. Reluctantly, Théoden agreed.
Éowyn did not know how much time they had between now and the next attack. She prayed it would not be against Edoras, but if Minas Tirith was hit by a great host, then what safety would Rohan have?
They ate lightly. She sat next to the King and her brother, Legolas eating with his companions. The conversation was light, but he every so often stole a glance at her, and she had to look away to avoid being caught in his gaze. He did notice her frown when it was revealed that Saruman and Wormtongue had escaped from Orthanc. When the meal was ended she excused herself and went to check on the wounded, giving her instructions before leaving the healing rooms and walking through the torchlit streets back up to Meduseld.
When she reached the top of the stairs, she saw him, standing in his usual spot, looking up at the stars. She came up to him and he opened his cloak, welcoming her into his embrace. She clung to him before finding his lips and kissing him warmly.
"My Lord, I have missed you," she whispered.
"And I have missed you, Lady Éowyn."
He told her about the destruction at Isengard and she was glad to hear it. Saruman had caused so much pain, it was small comfort to know that his fortress had been taken apart. She knew it did not mean the end of Orcs in Rohan, but she was hopeful that they had at least turned away the great host of Isengard and that the White Hand would not be seen again.
Detecting what was left unsaid, Legolas pulled her closer. "They will not come back to Edoras, my Lady. Who knows where they are now, but they would not dare tread across the Mark again."
Éowyn nodded. She did not want to think of Wormtongue or his Master. She was glad to have Legolas back and be in his arms once again. Whatever enemies were at the gates of Rohan could wait.
"I have been looking forward to thy return," she said quietly, daring to glance up at him.
"Have you?" He smiled mischievously.
"Aye. I…I was afraid that without you here next to me, the spell I was under would diminish and my love for you would prove false."
Legolas watched her carefully. Her head was bowed and he lifted her chin so they could look upon each other again.
"Éowyn, if you are having regrets, do not be ashamed. No one could blame you for seeking comfort during such a difficult time. I will not hold you to any promise you have made if you do not wish to-"
She quieted him by reaching up and kissing him hard, her hand holding his face and her tongue grazing his teeth. When she pulled back, she smiled wide at his astonished expression.
"I was afraid when you left, my Lord, but I have been overjoyed to find that I thought of you each day. I missed our walks, our long conversations, I missed the feel of your hands upon me, the pleasures you have taught me," she blushed before smiling at him again. "I have missed you, Legolas, and that is how I know that my love for thee is real."
Legolas kissed her and held her tight in his embrace.
"Éowyn, I was afraid also. I was afraid that I would lose you, that you would awaken from this dream we have lived together and forget about me."
"Nay, Legolas," she said, kissing his neck. "I love you with all of my heart. We are pledged to each other now, my Lord. I am afraid that you are stuck with me."
Legolas laughed and held her close. His heart was light and he felt a joy he had not felt for thousands of years it seemed.
"And what about thee, Legolas?" she whispered. "Do you still desire me now that we have been apart? Or has time and distance caused the novelty of loving a mortal woman to wear off?"
Legolas smiled widely at her, gently stroking her back as he saw the nervousness in her eyes.
"Elves choose one mate for all eternity, Éowyn," he said. "There is no novelty to my love for thee. As each day passes, so does my love grow for thee, White Lady. The time apart has done nothing but cause me to yearn for the sight of thy face, the song of thy voice, and the caress of thy touch."
Éowyn beamed as he kissed her. Her fears disappeared as she embraced him.
"Legolas, you told me that we would lie together when we returned to Edoras."
"I did say that. And now that we are here?"
She blushed. She did not know what about her Elven Prince made her so bold, but she knew what he wanted to hear, and she shook herself. It was not proper for a Lady to speak in such a manner, but she found herself not wanting to behave very ladylike when they were alone.
"Now that we are here, I very much want to love you…properly," she whispered, blushing, but holding his gaze.
Legolas smiled. "Lady Éowyn," he whispered. "You have enchanted me. What spell have you cast which makes me yearn for thy touch at all hours?"
She blushed again and looked down, before looking back at him lovingly. "I cast no spell, my Lord. It is you who have bewitched me body and soul. Come."
She led him through the halls of Meduseld and to her chamber. Her maids had been dismissed and a fire burned in the hearth. Her bed was covered in thick furs and her sword was hung by the bedpost.
Legolas held her sword in his hand. "Always prepared, Shieldmaiden?"
Éowyn smiled at him. "I have never had anyone in my chamber before that would require me to use my sword. Indeed, no man has ever set foot here."
"I am honoured, my Lady."
Éowyn smiled at him. Her breath caught as he removed his cloak and his armour, placing them by the fire with his bow and weapons. He sat down in a chair by the fire and began to remove his boots. She smiled and kneeled before him, stilling his hand and taking up the work with her fingers. She deftly removed his boots and set them aside, then pushed his tunic and shirt over his broad shoulders. She kissed his chest and moved her fingers to the laces of his leggings. He caught her hands and brought her up, kissing her tenderly.
"Wait, Éowyn. I have something for you first."
She looked at him curiously, sitting on his lap as he reached over into his pack.
He placed the bracers in her hands and she looked at them in wonder. They were different from any other armour she had ever seen, even from the plate mail she had seen in Gondor. She placed one along her forearm, and it seemed to form itself upon her, strong yet flexible. They were obviously Elven, but she could not understand how they fit her so well.
"My Lord, they are wonderful. Thank you."
"Armour fit for a Shieldmaiden. I have seen what happens when men try to dissuade you from battle, Éowyn. I admit I understand how those who love you would feel the compulsion to protect you, to keep you safe. But I know that thy spirit is too strong and restless for that. I hope you never need to use them, but if you do, I will be more at ease knowing you are protected."
"Thank you, Legolas," she said quietly, kissing his hand. Éowyn smiled happily. She had spent most of her life constantly feeling the need to prove herself, to her father first, then Éomer, Théodred, even Théoden. Now, this Elven Prince, who was a fierce warrior in his own right, and who had known her for only mere weeks, was choosing to allow her to be herself, and supporting her will to fight.
Legolas held her arm close to him and pointed to the runes on the bracers. "I do not know what these mean, they are ancient signs, from a long ago time. What Mithrandir tells me is that they are symbols of a long ago alliance between Elves and Men."
Éowyn smiled at his meaning. She set the bracers down on the table next to the chair. She did not expect more but she gasped as he brought out the bracelet.
"We found this among the spoils of War at Isengard. Gandalf assures me it is not enchanted by any dark magic. Gimli says the jewels are jade, Aragorn called them green like the leaves of Lórien. I give this to you, as a symbol of my love, and of my promise that I will return to you once the Dark Lord is defeated and we can be together."
He slid the bracelet around her thin wrist and it fit perfectly. Éowyn raised her arm, looking at the reflection of the firelight in the green jewels. They instantly reminded her of him, the green of his cloak and armour and the silver of light as it played off of his hair and bow. It was perfect.
"Thank you, my Lord. These gifts are so generous. I have nothing to give to thee in return."
"Of course you do, Éowyn. Thy love is worth far more than any token or piece of armour."
Éowyn smiled, sitting in his lap. She could feel his hard body pressed underneath her and she shifted slightly, her arousal rising at their closeness.
"I love you, Legolas. You are right. I do yearn for battle and for glory, to win renown and the right to fight as any man of Rohan is given. But now I find that I cannot wait for this wretched War to be done with, so you can return and claim me as thy wife forever."
They kissed, and she held his face in her hands as she pushed her tongue into his mouth. Legolas marvelled at her aggressiveness and a part of him wondered if they should wait. He had not resolved in his mind if it was fair to make love to her and then ride off to War. As she nipped at his lips and licked his throat, he was finding it very difficult to focus on rational thought.
"Wait, Éowyn," Legolas called. "My love, you have given me such pleasure, such bliss, but this is very serious now. It is said that when the essence of two Elven lovers blend, it is a joining that lasts forever. You have my heart, Éowyn, but you must understand what it is you are about to do. There is no turning back from this, my Lady, no reprieve. Regardless of what our fates become, we will be linked now forever."
She looked back at him and smiled genuinely, her face flushing slightly at the weight of the moment.
"My Lord, this is what I choose. This is what I want. You are what I want. If all I am to have for the rest of my life is this night with thee, then it will have been a life well fulfilled."
"But my love, think of thy people, think of thy station," Legolas said softly, tears coming to his eyes.
She smiled at him. Even now, on the verge of him being her first lover, he was trying to be so noble and gallant.
"Legolas," she said softly. "What did you do when you touched my cheek outside of Meduseld that night weeks ago?"
Legolas' eyes widened. "Of what do you speak?"
"You remember," she said firmly. "I told you of my despair in a moment of weakness, and you looked at me curiously, then you touched my face."
Legolas closed his eyes, then opened them to her. "Yes, I remember."
"You told me to have hope. Up until then I had been…haunted, at night. I had nightmares, heard whispers and saw shadows. They seemed to follow me, sometimes in my waking hours."
Legolas swallowed.
"That night, after you touched my face, I stopped having nightmares. I stopped hearing whispers. I stopped seeing shadows. Everything dark that I felt for years, it all stopped."
Legolas nodded.
"What did you do to me?"
"Nothing, Éowyn. I…I saw the darkness within thee, Éowyn. I wanted to banish it from thy soul, to help thee if I could. When I touched you, I tried to show thee hope by showing thy mind all that was still good in the world, and all that you still had to fight for, to live for."
Éowyn smiled genuinely at him. "You showed me thy love for me, didn't you Legolas?"
"I…aye, my mind tried to reach out to thy mind. Not to control, or bewitch, but to speak as equals. It is something that Elves can do with other Elves they are very close with, but I did not think that…"
"I felt it, my Lord," Éowyn nodded happily. "I was scared and did not realize it at the time, but I felt it, I felt you. I felt warmth, and safety, and hope, and love all in that moment. That is what stopped the darkness from overpowering me. It was you. It was you all along."
"My Lord," Éowyn continued. "Nothing is promised to either of us. War is upon us, my love. You could have died defending Helm's Deep. That Uruk-hai would have killed me if not for thee. Our existence is tenuous, is it not, Legolas? Nay, I will not turn away from this, from us. I will not deny my desire for thee to play politics or save myself for a man who I could never love as I love thee. I am yours, Legolas. I will complete our union and we will be happy, for as long as the Valar will allow, and that is all that matters."
"Take me, my Lord, please," she said, her breath hot against his face. "Make me yours."
She reached down and undid the ties of her dress. She pulled the straps down her arms and bared her chest to him. Legolas smiled at her. Her skin was smooth and soft. He kissed her neck and collarbone, drawing a moan from her lips. He moved her off of his lap and to her feet, kneeling before her as he got out of the chair. He kissed her cleavage and moved his hands to her hips, pushing her dress down her legs to pool at her feet. He kissed her stomach and her side, before she yelped in surprise and delight as he scooped her up in his arms.
Legolas carried her naked form to the bed, laying her down among the furs. Her hair fell across the pillows, her body opening to him as he stood before her. Her full breasts rose and fell as her breathing quickened, and her skin flushed as he gazed upon her.
With a practiced ease and a smile, Legolas pulled at the strings of his leggings. As the smooth leather fell away from him, he stepped forward, his body as bare as Éowyn's. She gasped at the utter beauty of him, his muscles taut and hard, his skin smooth and unblemished. She dared to cast her gaze downward and she smiled. She was mesmerized as he came forward and knelt at her side, his hand reaching out and stroking along her thigh, causing her to gasp again and look up at his smiling face.
"Lady Éowyn," he whispered, before leaning forward and brushing his lips against hers, their mouths touching tenderly before she boldly pushed her tongue forward and delighted in feeling him reciprocate.
His hand at her thigh became more insistent, and he lifted her leg, moving himself over her as she groaned into his mouth. He lifted up and paused above her, their eyes locked on each other, their bodies tensing as heat washed through them.
"Do I please you, my Lord?"
"Very much," he whispered.
Legolas leaned forward, his lips brushing against her neck, moving down across her collarbone, planting delicate kisses. His hands moved from her thighs up her sides, pressing firmly against her skin, which was warm and pliant against his palms. His hands came to rest on her breasts as his mouth found her soft flesh. He kissed her nipple lightly, before he opened his mouth and sucked firmly, his hands squeezing and teasing her.
She moaned, her arms splaying to her sides and her back arching as she pushed herself towards him. He kissed soothingly down her stomach. She spread her legs wantonly as he reached her core, his smile now seeming more wicked and lustful as he looked up at her.
His touch was insistent and demanding, and she bucked against him, crying out and moaning over and over as he ravished her. She felt her release begin in her stomach, spreading across her and rising from within. Her heart beat faster and she could feel the rush in her ears and across all of her senses. Éowyn forced her eyes open and saw the image of his blonde head between her thighs, his tongue caressing her firmly and insistently. Their eyes locked as she gasped for breath, hovering on the edge of her release. She shut her eyes tight and turned her head, her lips releasing a moan as pleasure she had only recently discovered crashed through her.
Legolas kissed up her body, covering her with his own. Éowyn opened her eyes and reached for him. Arms and legs tangled, skin rubbed delightfully against skin. Their hearts beat faster as they each reached the precipice of their first time as lovers.
"I am yours for eternity, Éowyn."
His tone was low and seductive, and her mind was spinning. She swallowed and her hands gripped at the furs beneath her.
He eased himself forward and she gasped at the initial contact between them. He rested his arms at her sides, bringing his face down to hers. She brought her hands up and rested them against his broad chest, his skin warm at her touch. She lost herself in his blue eyes.
Legolas stilled inside of her, allowing Éowyn to adjust. She gasped several times, clutching at his arms. She lifted her legs, pushing her thighs around him and he began to thrust into her. Years of training and riding horses had made her slightly more flexible than most maidens, but his size still sent shocks through her body as she felt him opening her. The intense pleasure of having him fill her overtook any thought of pain and she seized. Her hands moved to his shoulders, holding on to him, her eyes never leaving his.
Her voice was breathless as he began moving against her, his hips moving faster as she moaned to him. He reached forward and captured her mouth, his lips soft and loving, in contrast to the urgent thrusts of his hips into her. He released her mouth to allow her to gulp in air as his movements grew more desperate. Her release was building once more, stronger and more urgent than her first. Her eyes widened as her moans tried to communicate her need to him without words.
Legolas groaned and called her name as he pushed into her one final time. He saw her come apart before him and he finally let go, spilling into her. His arms tensed as he braced himself, holding his weight off of her as his hips pushed hard against hers. When he was finally spent, he moved his one hand to her thigh, pulling her with him as he fell down to his side, careful to bring her into the fit of his body while still keeping his weight off of her. He swept one arm around her and ran his fingers along her slick back, calling to her softly in Elvish as she shook in his arms.
Éowyn's breathing calmed eventually and she kissed his chest as her head rested against him. She finally raised her head and met his gaze. Her eyes were teary and she smiled at him.
"For eternity," she whispered.
Legolas kissed her, then stroked her back and hair as her breathing slowed and she fell asleep in his arms.
Éowyn woke as she felt Legolas slide back next to her. The room was dark, night having fully swept over Rohan. The fire was freshly tended and she smiled at his thoughtfulness. She knew Legolas did not feel the cold as she did and had no reason to renew the flames.
"A Prince, and a scullery maid," Éowyn smiled, her lids half shut.
"If you ever tire of me, you can at least keep me around for household duties," Legolas teased.
"Never," Éowyn grinned, curling herself closer against his body.
"My love, I cannot explain it but I have never felt so much…joy."
"I feel it too, Éowyn. I know you will think me foolish, but I feel as though I have been waiting my entire life to find thee. And now that you are mine, it is as if…"
"As if thy eyes have opened for the first time," she answered.
"Yes. Exactly."
"Legolas, do you think it strange that we have found each other, found this love with such dark days all around us?"
"Nay, Éowyn," Legolas smiled at her. "I think the timing could not have been more perfect."
Although making love to Legolas had invigorated her, she found herself falling asleep rather easily. His voice was soothing and pleasant in her ears and as he stroked her back, she sighed happily. Éowyn would never have imagined sleeping naked before, but she would not have imagined many things before Legolas came into her life. He pulled the furs around them and held her close as she drifted off once again.
Éowyn slowly opened her eyes. She could tell it was not yet dawn as the last darkness of night could be seen outside her chamber. She realized that Legolas' body was not in front of her as she felt the empty furs with her hands. She gasped as she felt his warm tongue on her shoulder and back and his firm body behind her. His hands roamed along her side and he pressed himself to her suggestively.
"Mmm, that was certainly a delightful way of being woken up," Éowyn smiled back at him.
"I could not help myself my love. I think you may need to sleep in thy nightgown. Feeling thy body against me constantly will make it very difficult to rest."
"Then I shall sleep naked," Éowyn teased.
She brought his arm around her and he hugged her to him.
"Are you all right, Éowyn?"
"Mmm…" she smiled at him. "I was nervous and a bit afraid, but now…" she kissed him softly. "Now I am very much all right."
"I am glad that you made us wait until we returned to the Golden Hall," Éowyn said softly. "Being in my home feels so perfect, Legolas. You give me such wonderful memories to comfort me while you are gone."
Legolas sighed behind her and Éowyn immediately regretted her words.
"I am sorry, my Lord. I do not wish to speak or even think of our parting."
She turned over and fit herself against his chest, looking up at him and cupping his cheek.
"It is all right, Éowyn," Legolas smiled. "Come, I believe there is another memory we can make together."
Legolas rose from the bed and gracefully walked to the fireplace, donning his boots, leggings and tunic, leaving his armour on the ground. He was so beautiful, Éowyn thought, her core seizing as she saw his bare flesh glowing in the firelight before he clothed himself. He looked back at her and smiled, catching her staring at him. He reached out a hand and she rose from bed, walking towards him, still somewhat shy to stand naked before him. He guided her across the stone floor to her dressing chamber.
"My Lord," Éowyn laughed. "If you wish to have me in another room, you did not need to dress."
Legolas smiled at her. "That is an intriguing thought, my Lady. Nay, I have another purpose in bringing you here."
Legolas walked among her clothes, surveying her various dresses, gowns, shifts, tunics, shoes and boots. He quickly picked out a corset, a light dress, leggings and boots. Smiling at her, he brought her back to her chamber and helped her dress.
"My Lord?" Éowyn teased. "Are you my lover or an attendant?"
Legolas smiled as he laced the leather corset over her dress. "I am thy betrothed, and will be thy husband, Éowyn," Legolas said in a low voice that made her shiver with desire. "And I am very attentive to thy needs."
"Yes, you are," Éowyn said, falling into his embrace and kissing him passionately. He smiled as he pulled away from her searching lips and took her by the hand once more. He led her outside her chamber and down the corridor to the Golden Hall. It was empty, the fire burning in the large hearth.
Legolas walked over to the centre of the room and turned to her, his smile mischievous. He brought out her sword from behind his back and she was surprised he was carrying it. He handed it to her reverently.
"I think it is time you gave me a lesson in swordplay, Shieldmaiden."
Legolas drew a sword from the nearby rack and stepped back into a fighting stance, smiling at her all the while.
Éowyn stared at him. During all of their training sessions, they had never sparred. Indeed she had not sparred with any man since she and Éomer had play fought as children. Even Théodred refused to practice with her.
Éowyn shivered. She reached to pull her sword from its scabbard, then stopped herself, a smirk coming to her lips.
"My Lord," she said teasingly. "You give me the advantage by letting me use my own sword while you rely on a foreign blade. Let us truly be equals, my love."
Éowyn placed her sword down and retrieved two quarterstaffs from the rack. Smiling, she threw one towards Legolas, who caught it and placed his sword back on the rack smoothly.
Legolas brought the quarterstaff forward, balancing it firmly in his hands. "It has been a long while since I wielded one of these. You will be merciful, will you not, White Lady of Rohan?"
"Certainly not," Éowyn smiled at him as she levelled her own quarterstaff towards him. "But fear not, my Lord. Should I mark you, I promise to kiss it better."
She lunged forward and Legolas' eyes went wide before he parried her strike. They clashed several times in succession before they each stepped back and began stalking the other, circling across the floor. Legolas held his staff firm while Éowyn moved hers from one side of her body to another, flexing the firm wood. Legolas flashed forward and she parried. He redirected and she parried again. He lunged forward in a combination of three strikes and she anticipated each one, shifting her weight to give proper force to her defence.
They continued for almost an hour, each one darting in and out, thrusting and parrying, blocking and countering. The staves clashed and rebounded, slid forward and back and danced as the two lovers battled. The blood coursed through Éowyn's veins and her heart sang as she engaged him. Legolas smiled gleefully as he saw the thrill of combat brighten his beloved's face. No, he did not want her to fight, did not want to remember the image of her suspended in air, held by the throat in the claws of an Uruk-hai. But she was a Shieldmaiden of Rohan regardless of her promises to him, and he knew he could not stifle this part of her spirit.
The sounds of their sparring brought two of the night watchmen into the Golden Hall, curious as to the commotion. They were further shocked by the sight of their Lady battling the Elven Prince with a quarterstaff. They each gasped as Éowyn moved to strike, causing Legolas to raise his quarterstaff to parry, only to chase the air as Éowyn feinted and turned, sliding her staff across the back of his leg and twisting her body to trip him off his feet. Legolas landed on the floor and before he could raise himself, Éowyn twirled the quarterstaff above her head before lowering it down, stopping it above his forehead. She grinned at him as he held his hands out helplessly.
"I yield, Shieldmaiden of Rohan."
Éowyn smiled and stepped back, allowing Legolas to rise. She realized they were now being watched and she took up her regal bearing once more.
"Resume thy watch outside. I was merely showing Lord Legolas how to properly wield a quarterstaff."
"Yes, thy Ladyship."
The guards retreated and Legolas replaced the quarterstaffs. He felt her small hands circle his waist and he turned in her arms to hold her. Éowyn reached up and kissed him lightly.
"Thank you, my Lord. Thank you for indulging me. That was my first sparring session with an Elf and I enjoyed it immensely."
"I am pleased," Legolas replied, handing her sword back to her. "Although the guard will spread word of my defeat throughout Edoras and Gimli will never let me hear the end of it."
Éowyn laughed before taking his hand and leading him back towards her chamber. "Come, Legolas. There are still hours left before we must wake. After such a victory, it is I who now wish to feast upon you."
Éowyn and Legolas arrived in the Golden Hall for breakfast with the King. They were as reserved and regal as always. She took her place at the side of the King, with Éomer on his other side, and Legolas sat down with Aragorn and his companions.
Following the meal, Gandalf rose and bowed to Théoden.
"Have you considered my words, Théoden King? Will you ride to the defence of Gondor if called?" the White Wizard asked.
"We must see to our own borders, Gandalf," Théoden sighed. "You yourself have seen the damage wrought across my land. We shall rebuild, and replant, and recover. I assure you that Denethor is not paying any mind to us."
"Be that as it may, the Steward of Gondor knows not the atrocities that you have seen, my King," Gandalf continued. "Should a host of the Dark Lord march on Minas Tirith, they will be ill equipped to stand against it without help from their allies."
"If, Gandalf," Théoden said, his tone rising. "If, if, if. I place my trust in what I see and what I know. I have seen the worst of Isengard. We still stand. I have seen the pain of my people. I shall heal them. I will not rush headlong into War again, particularly to save those who would not raise their swords in our defence."
"Then I shall take my leave, my King," Gandalf bowed. "My companions will remain here, in thy service, and I trust my King will reconsider when news arrives from Gondor, as it shall."
"Very well, Gandalf," Théoden waved his hand dismissively. "I see that the Pilgrim rides again. I shall await thy return, or word from thy travels."
Gandalf bowed and turned to leave the Golden Hall.
"Gandalf," the King called. The Wizard turned back.
"Few dared to oppose me when I was bewitched, Gandalf," Théoden said quietly, his eyes dark. "Fewer still were able to reach me," he said, casting a glance at Éowyn. "Thank you for bringing me back to my people."
"My King," Gandalf bowed.
"He will not be able to ignore the warnings, surely?" Aragorn asked as Gandalf roused Shadowfax from the stables.
"He has seen much loss, and he blames himself for allowing Rohan to be pillaged by Orcs," Gandalf replied, sitting astride the horse's back. "When War comes, you must be ready," he said.
"We will be," Aragorn nodded.
Pippin was placed in front of Gandalf. The Hobbit's eyes were wide and he glanced down at Merry pleadingly.
Merry shrugged his shoulders and waved to him.
"We will guard Rohan until it is time to ride again," Legolas nodded.
"Guard thy betrothed, Prince of Mirkwood," Gandalf smirked. "It may be her words that sway the King more than any of ours."
The remaining members of the Fellowship nodded and wished their companions well. Gandalf whispered to Shadowfax and the great horse leapt forward, galloping through the City gates and towards the Great West Road.
"What do we do now?" Merry asked.
"We wait, Merry," Aragorn replied, looking off into the distance as Gandalf disappeared over the horizon.
"Wait and hope that this rabble recovers in time for the next battle," Gimli huffed.
"War comes," Legolas said quietly. "And we will face it."