Previously:
Edoras, Rohan, Third Age, Cerveth, 3019
"Lord Legolas is one of the finest warriors I have had pleasure to draw swords with. All of Rohan owes him a debt for his faithful service to us at Helm's Deep and on our behalf at the Fields of the Pelennor, and before the Black Gate. It is my honour to welcome all distinguished guests to Meduseld in Spring of next year for the marriage ceremony of Lady Éowyn and Lord Legolas!"
There was loud applause and Éowyn smiled wide as her brother drank from his chalice.
"They are not wasting any time," Aragorn said to Arwen beside him.
"Did we once the War was over?" She asked him.
"Nay. Why would we?"
"Why indeed?"
They both smiled and Arwen rested her head against Aragorn's shoulder.
"Legolas has chosen well," she said. "The White Lady will bring him much happiness. It can only be the will of the Valar that they have many great years together."
"I know not what the will of the Valar would bring," Aragorn said cautiously. "But in this moment, they should feel blessed. Blessed and happy," he smiled.
Legolas stepped forward and offered Éowyn his hand. She smiled and took it and they stood before the throne of Éomer and turned towards their guests and all cheered and saluted them and they raised their linked hands together. Elf and woman. Immortal and mortal.
Chapter 10:
Edoras, Rohan, Third Age, Cerveth, 3019
Legolas and Éowyn circulated among the chambers of Meduseld, wishing each of their guests good night and ensuring all was arranged properly. Aragorn and Arwen had the largest room, as befitting the visiting King of Gondor. The Hobbits and Gimli were down the hall. In addition to the servants from Gondor, Éowyn had arranged for servants of the House of Eorl to attend to their guests and see to their needs. Accordingly, it was a rather grand production for all of them to prepare for bed. Éowyn and Legolas wished their friends good night before walking out of the Golden Hall and down to the Gates of Edoras.
What started as a dark day with the funeral of King Théoden had ended with Éomer's coronation and the impromptu proclamation of Éowyn's betrothal to Legolas. The range of emotions they had felt was staggering, but such was the custom of the Rohirrim. Their lives were always limited by time, and so they were sure not to waste any of it. As Éowyn mounted Windfola and rode out of the City alongside her betrothed, she felt at peace, even though her heart was still full of sorrow for her uncle.
Lord Elrond, Elladan, Elrohir and Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn and their contingent were staying in a large white tent that had been raised outside of Edoras for them. As Éowyn and Legolas left their horses outside and entered the tent, they saw all of the Elves milling about, sleep being not yet in their plans.
The twins attempted to have Legolas and Éowyn stay with them as they sang songs and drank together. Legolas politely declined and Éowyn was glad for it. She very much enjoyed the company of the Elves, but she suspected she would be up all night if she lingered longer with them.
"White Lady," Galadriel smiled to her. "The ceremonies today were beautiful. We are honoured to have shared them with thy people."
Éowyn bowed in turn. She still felt nervous around the Lady of Light, and was perplexed by how Galadriel seemed to take an interest in her. Having lost her parents at such a young age, Éowyn was not used to being so friendly with those older than her. And of course, despite her outward appearance, Galadriel was much much older than the Shieldmaiden.
They said their pleasantries to Legolas' kin and quickly departed to return to Meduseld. Éowyn's eyes grew heavy as they reached the Golden Hall. The day had been full of activity and she seemed to have been running about since dawn. As Legolas escorted her to their chambers, she felt the weight of the day catch up to her.
There were many changes in her life that Éowyn was getting used to, now that they were finally home in Rohan and there could be some semblance of a routine about their lives. She had caught a glimpse of it during their days in Minas Tirith following Aragorn's triumphant return. She was still getting used to Legolas' way of life, and thus far, she was finding the transition most intriguing.
Éowyn was used to being quiet and remaining in the background, particularly at Court. She usually gave her brother counsel quietly and discretely, and did not seek attention for herself, despite her firm belief that she was the equal of any Man.
Legolas had no such reservations. He asked for her opinion. He asked for her opinion often. In fact, he asked for her opinion all the time. He would ask her questions constantly, from the most mundane of details, to something as shocking as whether she thought his twin blades were properly balanced after they were sharpened. Éomer would not let her look at his sword, let alone heft it, and Legolas' request had brought incredulous stares and teasing from her kin.
Éowyn was used to maintaining propriety. There was a certain tradition and custom in every part of life for the Horse Lords. As the Princess of Rohan, she was expected to act detached and demure, to be reserved and conservative, and years under Wormtongue's stare had made her cold and unfeeling.
Legolas was, in a word, fearless. Though he was a Prince, his travels with the Fellowship and being away from his realm had made him far more expressive and open than any Elf or Man that Éowyn was used to. He constantly had to touch her, even in public, whether it be a hand to her back, or his arm across her shoulder, or his fingers lightly caressing hers. Such behaviour was unheard of among the Royal Court in Rohan and Gondor. Men and women usually slept in separate rooms, and saw each other during meals and briefly at night. If Legolas was not called away for some other task, he would often follow Éowyn around as she attended to hers, standing back and away, keeping quiet, his eyes moving around and taking in all that he saw. He was learning her ways, her duties, her life, and did not care if his attention was far beyond what a Man would pay to his fiancée or wife.
And so, Éowyn had to adapt to having Legolas around quite often, and she found herself enjoying it. While she continued her usual rituals, including having her maids attend to her in the morning, in the evening, as it was now, Legolas often dismissed her maids before they even retired to their chambers. Legolas insisted on preparing Éowyn for bed himself.
As she stretched her tired legs, smiling at the warm comfort of the furs around her, Éowyn rolled her eyes as Legolas came to bed. Once again, he was naked.
"Éowyn?" he smirked. "What is it? You have a most peculiar look on thy face."
"It is nothing," she declared. "I am just marvelling at thy lack of…"
"My lack of?" Legolas frowned in question.
"Propriety," Éowyn smiled. "I know of no one who sleeps naked, my Lord."
Legolas smiled and kissed her softly. He wrapped his leg around hers and pulled her into his chest. The heat of his body made her drowsy, and she smiled against him, kissing his throat and running her hands along his sides.
"Would you rather we wear sleeping gowns, my Lady?" Legolas teased.
"Mmm…certainly not," Éowyn replied, feeling his arousal against her thigh.
"Sleep, White Lady," Legolas smiled, kissing her forehead. "It has been a long day. A heavy day. You need to rest."
"And will you wake me as you normally do?" she raised her eyebrows flirtatiously. "Or will you save it for our bath?"
"What makes you think I won't do both?" Legolas smiled.
Éowyn kissed her Elven Lord once more and fell asleep in the comfort of his body.
Arwen and Éowyn were inseparable over the next few days. The Queen insisted on seeing more of Edoras and she and Éowyn would go off together as Legolas and Aragorn walked the streets with the rest of the Fellowship. Gandalf would often spend the days with Lord Elrond, Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel. Although they did not wish to contemplate it, Aragorn and Legolas knew they would all be passing over sea to Valinor soon, and these meetings were in contemplation of that.
Arwen helped Éowyn plan some of the wedding details as well, looking at fabrics, flowers and thinking of where the ceremony and reception would be held. Éowyn found herself enjoying the company of the Queen, and though her wedding was months away, she was growing more excited the more she spent time with Legolas' friend. Arwen was very enthusiastic and her attitude was contagious. Legolas and Aragorn looked on in amusement as the ladies would discuss myriad details during their meals, then plan further appointments for the next day.
"Lady Éowyn seems to not know that Elven weddings are rather simple affairs," Aragorn teased.
"As simple as thy wedding was?" Legolas replied.
The guests of Éomer, King of Rohan departed one week after his coronation. As Legolas came down the steps from Meduseld with Éowyn, all looked up at them and smiled. She wore a white Elven gown and her coronet as Princess of Rohan. They bid farewell to their friends, and Éowyn marvelled at how her life had changed in such a short time. She barely had friends before, even during the last year of the War, and now she was embracing Elves, Hobbits, a Dwarf and a Wizard gratefully and merrily.
Legolas was glad, despite seeing his friends and kin leave him in this new land. Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn promised to return with their folk for the wedding in Spring, and Legolas was heartened to know he would see the Lady of Light once more. Éowyn shyly returned the embrace of Galadriel as the Elves departed, and wondered if she would ever feel at ease among such beings.
The Fellowship also departed, with Gandalf and Aragorn to lead them first to Orthanc to reclaim the keys from Treebeard and gift the lands and forests near Isengard to the Ents to grow and populate once again. The Hobbits would return to the Shire, also pledging to ride to Edoras in Spring.
"I am not ashamed to admit that I shall miss you, Gimli," Legolas smiled as Gimli was placed on his horse.
"You shall regret thy words, Elf," Gimli grunted. "For you have promised that you shall accompany me to the Glittering Caves, and I shall hold thee to that promise. Although now I would ask thy beloved to accompany us, and be bound to our pact of friendship," Gimli said, nodding to Éowyn reverently.
"I shall be at thy service, Master Dwarf," Éowyn laughed, curtseying to him. "And my brother shall do thee one better."
Éomer came forward with Aragorn and smiled at Gimli. "Gimli, son of Glóin," he said. "Relieved am I that sword and axe did not cross upon our first meeting in the Riddermark, though I perhaps gave you slight reason to do so. The Eorlingas would be honoured should you wish to bring some of Durin's Folk down from Erebor and dwell in Aglarond. We can think of no better Dwarf to take up the title of Lord of the Glittering Caves, and should you wish, we shall rebuild Helm's Deep together and share it as a fortress of the Eorlingas and Dwarves, and a monument to the love of our peoples, and the service you have done in taking up our defence during the War of the Ring. What say you, Master Dwarf?"
Gimli's mouth opened and he gasped in wonder. Legolas laughed along with Éowyn and Aragorn patted Gimli's shoulder.
"Éomer-King, you have triumphed where many have failed. You have rendered the Dwarf speechless," Aragorn smiled.
"Humbly I shall accept this wondrous gift on behalf of my folk, Éomer-King," Gimli nodded. "We shall build great works to fortify the Deeping Wall, and making our home in Aglarond shall make our work in Minas Tirith much the easier. Tales will be told of this Alliance of Dwarves and Men, and long shall we serve one another…even if you allow the Elf to wed thy sister."
The friends laughed together and Legolas made plans to meet Gimli at Helm's Deep in two months' time. Gimli would bring certain of his folk from the Lonely Mountain and his colony would greet them before winter.
"Now, Prince Legolas," Aragorn said as the procession began filing out of Edoras. "What of you and thy betrothed? Shall you dwell in Edoras, or return to Eryn Lasgalen?"
"We shall dwell wherever my Lord wishes," Éowyn said, bowing her head.
"I have not given thought to it, Estel," Legolas replied. "My home shall be where Éowyn is, whether that be forest or stone, field or mountain, it is of no concern to me."
Legolas and Aragorn embraced as brothers and Arwen and Éowyn hugged. They saluted and waved as the horns sounded and the King of Gondor rode out from Edoras.
"Come, Prince Legolas," Éomer called. "Rohan shall receive embassies in the coming days, and I would have thy counsel together with that of my sister for as long as you two shall remain here."
Legolas bowed and Éowyn took his arm, and they walked up the steps to the Golden Hall.
Edoras, Rohan, Third Age, Urui, 3019
True to Éomer's prediction, embassies from across the Mark and the bordering lands came to Meduseld over the following weeks to pay tribute to the new King of Rohan. They were each received warmly, for old grudges were set aside as Peace had gratefully returned to the Mark. With King Éomer now on the throne and the might of the reunited Kingdoms of Gondor and Arnor supporting him, it was foolish for anyone to challenge the might of Edoras, or to not pledge loyalty to Rohan.
All the political machinations of dignitaries and visitors to the Golden Hall were further tempered upon seeing the particular advisors that surrounded the King. Éomer sat upon the throne as Théoden once did, and appeared majestic and intimidating all at once. To his side sat his sister, Éowyn, the White Lady of Rohan, beautiful and fearsome in her own right, and behind her stood the Elven Prince of Eryn Lasgalen, her betrothed. Gamling and other Marshalls and attendants stood to Éomer's other side, but it was the trio who were most formidable in the face of friend and foe alike.
Those already loyal to Rohan beamed and paid tribute to the new King, standing in awe of the Elven Prince and the White Lady. Those who were slightly more ambitious or even manipulative were soon found out, for nothing seemed to escape the watchful gaze of Prince Legolas, or the sharp wit and inquisitive queries of Lady Éowyn. They often looked on as questions were posed and statements made, before making one or two inquiries themselves, conferring with each other and whispering their counsel to the King when he asked for it. Sage and beautiful they were, and their reputation travelled across the Mark and beyond. Prince Legolas and Lady Éowyn were, the stories told, the embodiment of the very best of Elves and Men from glory long forgotten. Jealousy and envy still followed them, particularly among the nobles of Rohan and Gondor who had designs on Lady Éowyn for political purposes. Legolas found it comical. Éowyn was not pleased, but tried to trust in the confidence that her Elven Lord conveyed.
And so by the time King Éomer celebrated a full month on the throne, Rohan was well on its way to a Golden era. Properties and borders had been divided and properly laid out for all to understand. A new tithe and taxation system had been established that was both fair and lucrative, and trade across the Mark had resumed and was booming. Gone was the dark cloud sent from Isengard to poison and slow the progress of the Rohirrim. The roads and trade routes were no longer plagued by raiders and bandits, and the mood of the Rohirrim was simply lighter and happier. They attacked the new time of Peace with zest and enthusiasm, laying the foundation for a new Age of prosperity.
Rohan, Third Age, Narbeleth, 3019
Despite the ravages of War and the clear evidence of Orcs having traipsed across their land for too long, the harvest in the Mark was bountiful still that autumn season. The villagers across Rohan stared in wonder at the sight of Arod and Windfola leading a vanguard of Eorlingas as Prince Legolas and Lady Éowyn rode across the Westfold, inspecting crops, visiting with farmers and reviewing the repairs to the homes and villages. Much they had lost in the War of the Ring, and on all of their visits they needed to comfort distraught citizens who could not maintain their composure in the face of their Princess who had slayed the Witch-King and the Elven hero. Legolas was impressed by the spirit of his betrothed's people. They rebuilt, replanted and renewed their land, and when corn, vegetables and all the bounty of the harvest was collected two months after the funeral of King Théoden, Legolas was thankful for their good fortune.
Éowyn fell more in love with her Lord each day. It was childish and too sentimental for her liking, but she could not deny that he constantly surprised her. She had initially tried to dissuade him from accompanying her to inspect the territories, only relenting when Éomer insisted. Now she was glad for his company. He was perceptive and brilliant, picking up on the lifestyle and traditions of the Rohirrim easily. She found they were well matched in matters of commerce as in matters of love. Much to her delight, he did not take the initiative from her. Often he would stand silent as she made her visits, only speaking when she asked for his opinion or to support her decisions. Unlike any Man she had ever met, he entrusted her with the authority to make decisions and command her people, and she found it exhilarating and terrifying all at once.
"What will he expect of me when we preside over his people and his Kingdom?" she thought to herself. "Will the Elves accept me as a ruler, or will I be kept behind him, his mortal human consort, only existing for his pleasure?" She found herself smiling at the admission that she would not in fact mind either outcome, and she scolded herself for such wanton thoughts.
"Do not worry thyself, White Lady," Legolas smiled at her, taking her attention back to him as they rode along the road to the next farm. "I cannot rule without a Queen at my side, and I cannot imagine a more worthy, or beautiful, regent than thee."
She frowned at his ability to read her mind. "How did you know what I was thinking?"
"I did not, my love," Legolas smiled mischievously. "I only wished to state the facts for thy own assurance."
She fell more in love with him each day.
Helm's Deep, Rohan, Third Age, Hithui, 3019
With great joy and an eager step, King Éomer rode out with his retinue for Helm's Deep. Legolas and Éowyn accompanied him and they reached the Deeping Wall in record time, taking the newly maintained road built by the army in the past weeks. They were pleased to see the repairs to the Keep and the Hornburg were completed and the garrison remained healthy and well supplied. Horns sounded and trumpets called to announce the arrival of the King of the Mark, and his inspection met with great satisfaction as he walked the Causeway and up to the Keep with Éowyn and Legolas.
"Had I not lived it myself I would never have believed a battle had taken place here such as that which we barely survived," he said in wonder.
"Aye, brother," Éowyn smiled, squeezing Legolas' hand. "The fortress has once again returned to its former glory."
"And it shall be renewed further still," Legolas smiled. He looked past the battlements and pointed down to a group of Dwarves that were marching up the Causeway. Éowyn and Éomer returned his smile. Gimli had come to Helm's Deep.
Never had so many Dwarves set foot in Rohan as Gimli led hundreds of Durin's Folk through the Hornburg and into the Glittering Caves. They brought provisions, supplies, and construction materials, and with the garrison of Rohirrim, they set to work immediately. Legolas and Éowyn walked with Gimli through the many passages. Éowyn and Éomer had played in the caves as children, but only now did they understand the true depth and area of the caves.
Gimli spoke enthusiastically about the halls he would build. They would rival Khazad-dûm during its glory, he boasted. As Legolas opened his mouth to speak, Gimli hushed him.
"I do not seek riches for myself, Elf! Nor do I wish to fight a Balrog. I will make the caves a haven for my people, where we will build great works for the benefit of the Mark and Gondor. Perhaps if you are well behaved, we will build something for your woodland realm."
Legolas and Éowyn laughed and they came back out of the caves to rejoin Éomer in the Keep for a light meal. They were happy at being reunited with Gimli, and meeting his kin who would be dwelling in the caves with him.
"Well, my Lord, what say you of the Glittering Caves now?" Éowyn teased.
"I find myself speechless, my love," Legolas admitted. "Much aggrieved am I, for never has a Dwarf beaten an Elf in a contest of words. And yet, Gimli would describe the caves much more poetically than I ever could. It is no matter. I am glad that he and his folk shall dwell in Rohan and that the ties that bind thy people and his shall strengthen. But I will insist on Gimli honouring our pact and riding with me to Fangorn, so we may set the account straight."
"Aye," Gimli laughed. "This time, with the White Lady riding with us, I will be assured not to fall victim to thy cheating!"
Legolas looked at Gimli with mock horror and Éowyn and Éomer laughed along with the other guests, Eorlingas and Dwarves alike.
"A Mûmak only counts as one!" Gimli shouted as the sounds of merriment rang out from the Keep.
Fangorn Forest, Third Age, Hithui, 3019
They rode on to Fangorn Forest and Éowyn and Éomer were in awe as Legolas guided them among the trees, telling them of stories of the forest from Ages long ago and identifying different plants and herbs that grew there. The Rohirrim did not dare enter Fangorn, but Legolas advised it was permitted, so long as they did not cut down any of the trees or raise their blades against them. While they did not see any sign of Treebeard or his brethren, Legolas did notice that the forest seemed larger than when he and Gimli had discovered Gandalf there, and as they looked out over the vale leading to the Misty Mountains, they were glad.
"It would be a comfort to think that the trees have retaken the land and that the forest grows where once there was shadow," Gimli said wistfully.
"Aye," Legolas agreed, holding Éowyn close to him. "Fangorn stretched for miles in Ages past, before the Dark Lord and the war with the Númenóreans destroyed much of its reach. Aragorn and Gandalf have surely spoken with the Ents, and they will rebuild this land in time."
"What say you of the beauty of the forest, Master Dwarf?" Éomer asked.
"It is a sight to behold, Éomer-King," Gimli agreed. "Though while Lórien lies several leagues away, the Lady of Light does not walk these paths, and therefore Fangorn is a mere mirage to my eyes, for I have seen a fairer wood than this."
The friends returned from their journey, the pact between Legolas and Gimli having been kept and their bond reinforced. They left Gimli at Aglarond, with his promise to spend Yuletide with them in Minas Tirith. The King rode back to Edoras with his sister and her betrothed and his Guard.
Meduseld, Edoras, Rohan, Third Age, Girithron, 3019
The messenger tried to catch his breath as he stood in the Golden Hall. He had ridden hard since receiving his instructions in Bree. The road had been safe, a far cry from the danger all about during the War of the Ring. He had barely stopped, the urgency of his mission driving him onward.
A door opened and the messenger lowered his head, so blinded he was by the glow that met his eyes he thought he may have been looking into the sun itself. Walking towards him was a tall man, but not a man in fact but an Elf, strong and proud, wearing a silver robe adorned with jewels. His hand was linked to who must have been an Elven Princess, his wife surely. She was beautiful. Her long blonde hair was tied back under a silver coronet. Her gown was a light blue and seemed to flow as she walked, like the waters of the Limlight river that bordered Rohan. About her wrist was a silver and jade bracelet and on her ring finger was a bright ring of mithril, with gorgeous gems. What a beautiful Elven couple were doing in Rohan was beyond the messenger's comprehension.
"Welcome to Edoras," she said warmly, and he then noticed that her ears were like his own, and not at all like the pointy ones of her Lord who stood beside her. The messenger gasped. He had heard of these two, but they seemed as if out of legend, and never did he expect to meet them in person.
"Lady Éowyn," he gasped, bowing his head once more.
Éowyn looked at him with an amused expression.
"Aye, and this is my Lord, Prince Legolas of the Wood of Greenleaves, Eryn Lasgalen. What message have you for him?"
He brought the scroll from his belt and held it before him. Legolas smiled at him and took it from his hands. Éowyn called for her attendants and soon the messenger was ushered to a side room where cheese, bread, salted meat and wine were placed before him. He ate hungrily, but stole a glance back into the Golden Hall. The Lord Legolas and the Lady Éowyn were walking away, their hands still linked.
Legolas and Éowyn came into a sitting room where Éomer was carving an apple. The King enjoyed taking private moments in this smaller antechamber to avoid the constant calls of the nobles and attendants who sought his attention when he was on the throne. Éowyn sat down next to him and took a sliced apple from his plate. He shook his head at her and smiled as he continued to cut the fruit.
"A letter from Merry, Knight of the Mark," Legolas smiled as he opened the scroll, emphasizing the Hobbit's title. Éowyn laughed.
"What news from Sir Meriadoc?" Éomer laughed. "Will we have the pleasure of his company in Minas Tirith for the holiday season?"
"Nay," Legolas said, smiling as he read. "He says that they are celebrating the season in the Shire, for they have been away long from their kin."
"That is fair," Éowyn said, smiling at Éomer. "We shall see all of them in the Spring." She bit into another apple slice.
"He notes just that," Legolas confirmed. Legolas then frowned, his lips curling slightly as he read.
"Legolas?" Éowyn asked, regarding him curiously. "What is it?"
"Merry and the others, they returned to the Shire to find it in ruin and their kin taken hostage," Legolas repeated.
"What?" Éomer rose from his chair and walked over to him. "Why did he not call for aid?"
"He says that he and Pippin defeated the Chief that sought to rule over the hobbits. Sam and Frodo helped them free the hostages and they fought back a rabble of ruffians."
"Bravo, Sir Merry!" Éowyn said.
"Sweet Eru!" Legolas exclaimed, passing the letter to Éomer.
"What is it?" Éowyn asked nervously.
"Their would-be abductors," Legolas said, looking from Éowyn to Éomer, who was reading the scroll quickly. "They were Saruman and Wormtongue."
Éowyn gasped and Éomer's eyes narrowed.
"Oh Gods! They reached the Shire? And what happened to these horrible monsters? Where are they now?" she asked.
"They are dead," Éomer said gravely. "Frodo writes that Gríma slayed Saruman with a knife and when he tried to escape he was felled by Hobbit archers."
Éowyn placed her hand over her mouth. She shook slightly, and Legolas came to her immediately, pulling her close to him. She rested her head against his shoulder.
"It is over," she whispered. "Finally."
"Merry writes that he and Frodo wanted us to know what happened and they thought it too important to wait until Spring," Éomer folded the letter and sat down. He stared into the distance in quiet contemplation.
"It is justice," Legolas said softly to both of them. "They have both fallen, and a Knight of the Mark stood up to oppose them."
"Aye," Éomer replied. "Bless the spirit of King Théoden, for he saw courage in Merry that I did not."
The three of them sat in silence as they each contemplated what the news from the Shire meant to them. Éomer called for his scribes to come to them, and he composed two letters, one to be sent to Minas Tirith to tell King Elessar of the news, and another to Merry and the Halflings to thank them for their valour. As he finished the letters and included the well wishes of Éowyn and Legolas in his missives, she rose and walked back to their chambers, Legolas accompanying her.
She was quiet as they bathed, and as he held her against him, she did not meet his eyes, nor touch him intimately. She rested against his chest, the hot bath water almost covering her shoulders. He lay back, holding her and stroking her arm soothingly.
"He is gone," she whispered.
"Yes, Éowyn. He is gone. Along with his evil Master."
She looked up at him then, giving him a small smile and touching his cheek.
"I am relieved, and glad. But I feel no vindication, or thrill, or even satisfaction."
"Perhaps you wished to kill him thyself, and so you are disappointed?" Legolas said carefully.
"Nay," she smiled more genuinely now, turning her body and straddling him, her arms circling his neck and her lips coming a breath away from his.
"It is because I have found something to fill my heart with far more than the cold wish of revenge. It is because the Valar have sent me a noble, valiant and beautiful champion who deserves all of my attention."
She kissed him tenderly, his hands moving up her sides. She pulled back just enough for him to see the joy in her eyes and her genuine smile.
"There is no sense in wasting another moment's thought on that Worm," she said firmly. "But even were he alive, he is of no concern. You banished him from my mind when you first arrived here, my Lord, and what his fate is now is of no consequence."
She kissed him more insistently and slid her hand down his chest and below the water. She moaned in delight as she found him hard and thick, and she wasted no time in easing him inside of her.
"Oh, Legolas!"
She moved on top of him and his hands slid down to cup her buttocks as she rode him more urgently.
"Éowyn," he gasped, kissing her neck.
"Take me," she hissed, nipping into his neck. The hot water swirled around them as their passion rose, her movements erratic and frantic. Legolas' eyes darkened and he leered at her lustfully as she rode him, and her skin flushed at his covetous gaze.
She soon cried out as she released around him. After allowing her several moments to calm herself, Legolas lifted her up and carried her on to the soft towels covering the smooth stone floor.
The cool air shivered across her wet skin, a stark contrast to the heat spreading through her as her beloved Elf filled her once more. He rose above her, straightening his arms at her sides to support his weight, her legs wrapped around his hips as he increased his pace.
Her breasts rose as he pushed into her again and again. She whimpered softly as he continued to stroke inside of her. Her moans grew louder as a second release approached.
"Please, Legolas, please," she begged.
He lowered his lips to hers and kissed her as he thrust more forcefully inside of her. She cried out into his mouth as she fell apart around him and she squealed again as she felt him spill into her violently.
He lifted her spent body into his arms and carried her to bed, cradling her against him as he pulled the blankets over them. She smiled at him, her eyes glazed over in sated pleasure.
"That is why I do not care about whatever happened before you arrived at Edoras. It was another life, and it need not be given any importance."
He kissed her again and whispered to her in Sindarin and Rohirric, telling her he loved her and how happy she made him.
"Legolas," she said to him with a smile before turning over and pushing her bottom back against his hardening desire. Her hand swept up and pulled his head across her shoulder and against her cheek. She turned her head and kissed him, pushing herself against him in obvious encouragement. "The night is still young, my love. I am feeling particularly ravenous tonight, and my mind if filled with all manner of improper thoughts."
He smiled against her cheek, bringing his hand down to her hip. "Let me show you true Elven stamina, my Lady," he growled as he thrust into her wet centre.
Legolas did not need to sleep, but he found himself taking more rest during his time at Edoras. With the stars overhead and light filtering into their bedchamber, he would lay back and gaze up to the heavens through the window, his eyes glazing over and peace filling him. Éowyn's warm body resting against him and her slow breathing soothed him, and often he would lose himself in the sensations around him, not moving nor speaking until Éowyn woke.
This evening, he was roused from his meditation by her lips on his face and her hand on his bare chest.
"Again, my Lady?" he growled as he rose up, pushing her down into the furs.
"Nay, my Lord!" Éowyn squealed, laughing. "I am merely waking you. Come, it is Winter Solstice and we must go out for the beginning of Yuletide!"
Legolas smiled as she got up from the bed, her naked beauty stirring his arousal as the firelight danced across her bare skin. She pulled a simple gown over her head and looked back at him.
"Legolas," she teased. "Do not stare at me so. Thy thoughts are easily read across thy face. We have duties to attend to, my love, and you shall have no ravishing just yet."
He grumbled and rose, putting on his leggings and donning a long silver tunic. As he pulled his hair back he caught her staring at him.
"Aha!" he cried, coming to her side swiftly.
"Stop it!" she said happily, slapping his arms away from her waist.
"You were staring at me, my Lady," Legolas said triumphantly. "Why, you were devouring me with thy eyes, wanton woman!"
She pushed back and smiled at him as she walked to the door. "Perhaps if you are good, I will do more than merely stare at you when we return later."
They stepped out in the cold air outside Meduseld. Éomer and his select invited guests were standing on the promontory and they greeted each other. Legolas looked up and saw the moon at its height. He smiled.
Crowds were gathered at the bottom of the stairs, and a corridor had been set up with ropes to keep the people back. Torches lit their way and the nobles of Edoras descended the stairs ahead of King Éomer. A soft carol started from the choirs standing nearby and the citizens joined them in song.
Legolas stood next to Éowyn, intrigued by the spectacle. Elves had different traditions for the Winter Solstice, but he was aware that Men celebrated Yule for days. There would be feasting here in Edoras before they rode to Minas Tirith. He smiled as Éowyn's face lit up. She seemed to have the carefree spirit of a child with the tradition of the season all around them.
Éomer held a torch aloft and lit the pyre built near the Gate. The bonfire roared to life. The crowd cheered and applauded and the Royal Guard brought forth sweet fruit breads and drink, passing it out among the crowd. Éowyn passed her cup to Legolas, who nodded and drank from it, then handed it back to her. Éowyn kept her eyes on him as she deliberately drank from the same side of the cup that his own lips had touched. Her tongue circled her lips briefly as she finished, and she smirked as Legolas swallowed uncomfortably, clearly roused by the teasing display. Even Elves knew that a woman did not drink from the same cup as a male in such a fashion unless she was his mate.
Éowyn next ate a piece of bread, in a far more innocent fashion, and gave the rest to her Lord. They stood before the bonfire, his arms around her waist as the carols continued. When the ceremony was done marking the beginning of Yuletide, the procession returned to Meduseld and the crowd dispersed.
"Come with me," Legolas whispered in her ear as they reached the doors of the Golden Hall.
Éowyn smiled at him. They bid Éomer good night and Legolas escorted her around to the wall and across to the parapets. He ushered her up the stairs of a large guard tower on the south side. Reaching the open air platform, he dismissed the watchmen, who left them alone.
He escorted her over near the fire that was burning fiercely in the pit. Sitting down and leaning his back against the stone wall of the tower, Legolas pulled her down on to his lap. She adjusted her skirts and cloak, and he wrapped his own cloak around them to warm her. She turned, sitting sideways across his thighs and resting her head against his shoulder. The flames crackled before them and the heat was warm and welcome.
"Winter Solstice is a special time for the Elves as well, Éowyn," he began.
"Tell me, my Lord," she asked eagerly. She enjoyed hearing about his people and their ways. It brought her closer to him, and she found to her amusement that Elves and Men were far more similar than she had ever believed before.
"Here in Rohan, it is the beginning of Yuletide, but among the Eldar it is also known as the longest night, where all things are possible and the air itself is charged with magic."
He pointed up to the stars, and she could see them brightly in the night sky. She smiled as she could remember the names of the different stars he had taught her months ago.
"The stars seem brightest during the Winter Solstice, and so many Elves spend the evening outdoors, under the stars. I have spent the Solstice in Greenwood and in Lórien, and we would gather on the talans high in the trees. There would be music and song, sometimes races, archery competitions. The night is so alive with energy that it moves us to do something to immerse ourselves in it."
"And what would Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn do on these evenings?" she asked.
Legolas laughed. "Lord Celeborn would judge the races and competitions and Lady Galadriel would reward the winners. They would sing as well, and gaze up at the stars. We all would look to the stars. They shine so brightly this night, as if we can feel the magic pouring out of them and surrounding us, filling us."
Éowyn smiled. She could picture the scene through his words. She imagined him as an elfling, running through the flets of Lórien and winning contests with his bow.
"Yuletide was always a happy time in our house," she said wistfully.
"Did you and Éomer cause mischief, my love?"
"No, actually it was the one time of the year where we did not fight or argue or do anything remotely juvenile," she laughed. "I would help my mother with her baking and my father always made sure he was home on Winter Solstice."
"In Greenwood of old, we would make special cakes, with fruit and herbs and sometimes nuts. The smells would linger for days sometimes."
"Aye," she answered. "We would have special pies as well. We used ground meats and vegetables and we would go to our friends' homes and exchange them and eat together after the bonfire was lit."
"When was your last Winter Solstice, my Lady?"
Éowyn looked at him and smiled wanly. "Not for several years. King Théoden did not celebrate when he was ill. I remember Théodred and Éomer tried to make a cake to cheer me. It was horrible! But I appreciated their effort just the same."
"It is a magical time, is it not, my love? Family and fellowship seem all the more important on these days." Legolas smiled.
"And what magic stirs within you this Winter Solstice, my Lord?" she smirked.
"A reminder that everything is possible, such as the love between a mere Wood Elf and a Princess of Rohan," he teased back.
They kissed tenderly and his lips travelled from her mouth to her neck, nibbling at her skin. She gasped and smiled against him.
"Do you wish to mark me as yours tonight, Legolas?"
Legolas stilled suddenly, his breathing shallow against her skin. "Meleth nin," he whispered.
She moved her head to the side, exposing her pale neck to him. "My love," she replied, closing her eyes.
He growled as he bit into her neck, causing her to gasp. He did not cut her skin, but instead drew it into his mouth, nipping and sucking at it. Pulling back, he smiled. She moved her hand over the welt on her neck and shook her head at him.
"Are Elves usually so territorial, my Lord? Afraid that a man may try to seize what belongs to thee?" she asked with a smile.
"Nay," Legolas replied, kissing her cheek. "I do not need to mark you for you are not my property. But I also know it excites you to be coveted so strongly by thy beloved. I wish to show you how much I appreciate you and cherish you, Éowyn. Noting more than that."
Éowyn swallowed as she looked into his lustful eyes. They seemed brighter than usual, and the way he held her against him was strong and possessive.
"What else do you know, my Lord?" she whispered.
"I know," Legolas said in a deep voice, pulling her closer and letting her feel his thick arousal through her skirts. "I know that you enjoy being pursued, being hunted, but not as a prize to be won, but as a challenge to be accepted. The Shieldmaiden in you…" Legolas paused, looking at her ravenously, "will only submit to a worthy warrior."
Éowyn smiled, her heart rate rising and desire filling her. She leaned forward, rubbing herself against his arousal through the layers of clothing and watching his lips part slightly at the contact.
"And you, my Lord, you enjoy the chase," she said huskily into his ear. "You are a warrior and a hunter, and an Elven Prince. You are used to getting thy way, to having no one stand against thee. Elleth fall at thy feet and yet you crave something more. You see taking me to bed as a challenge, and I am thy quarry, to be conquered and bent to thy desire, to show the world of Men that Legolas, Prince of the Elves can claim even the most unattainable of women, the White Lady of Rohan, and reduce her to a slave for thy pleasure."
Legolas' grip on her hips tightened and she heard him gasp. His breathing was ragged and as she pulled back, she could see his eyes were almost fiery in their brightness. The glow of the stars and the moon were all about them, a pale blue fire making their surroundings seem strange and bewitched. He seemed even more wild and untamed to her in this moment than when she had seen the battlelust flowing through him. It reminded her of how he stared at her in the Caves below Helm's Deep, when he had saved her life, and looked upon her with a strange longing. This night, however, it felt even more intense, as though he were debating all the ways that he would claim his conquest.
"I- I do not see you that way, Éowyn," Legolas struggled, blinking furiously. "My soul yearns for yours, and I do not lie with you to for my own arrogance or to enhance my reputation."
"Legolas," she said quietly. "Do not be afraid or ashamed of thy primal desires, my love. I know that you love and respect me, and that you hold me in the highest regard," she smiled at him before leaning towards his ear once again.
"But you do not want to treat me as a Lady in the privacy of our chamber do you, my Lord? Thy passion for me is too strong to be reined in by propriety. I have seen it when the battlelust flows through you. The way you look at me when you are roused in that state. Tell me, Legolas. Tell me what you wish to do with me."
Legolas stiffened, gasping again as Éowyn locked her eyes on his.
"Éowyn," he swallowed. "I do not mean to betray thy trust…"
"Tell me, Legolas," she commanded fiercely. "Tell me now, or we will be sleeping apart in separate rooms until our wedding, as is the ancient tradition in Rohan and you will not be permitted to touch my body for months."
"Argh!" he growled, pulling her closer and kissing her ardently. Éowyn squealed against his lips, opening her mouth as he thrust his tongue inside of her.
"Tell me, my Lord," she hissed between kisses, enraging and arousing him in equal measure. "I have seen the way the Winter Solstice moon can stir passions, Legolas. I have heard tales of it – men seeking out companionship for the evening, and renewing their claims to their wives. Is it not so for the Elves?"
Legolas squeezed his eyes shut, his teeth shining in the moonlight as he held his emotions at bay.
"I want you, Éowyn," he gasped, keeping his eyes closed and his hands still against her body. "I have wanted you from that first moment I saw thee on the steps of Meduseld."
She smiled wide at his confession. "Tell me, Legolas. Tell me what you have been guarding for so long. When you saw me that day long ago, what did you want? What did you wish to do?"
"I…" he could not form words, and he opened his eyes to meet her fierce gaze upon him.
She turned and straddled him, raising herself up and pushing back on his shoulders. She framed his face and pushed his head against the cold stone of the tower. Legolas' eyes lit up as he stared up into the stars above, and she could see them reflected in his dark pupils. Seeing the starlight in the background and Éowyn's beautiful face above his, Legolas' breath caught.
"It is Winter Solstice, my love. The night of magic where all things are possible, is that not what you have taught me?"
"Aye," he gasped, his eyes locked on hers but his pupils dilating as if in a dream state.
"Everything is possible, my love. Tell me what you desired that day of our first meeting."
She licked her lips and he gasped again.
"You wanted to take me, my love, didn't you? You saw me standing against the wind, and you were roused, weren't you? And if they companions had not been with thee, and you were not on a mission to save my uncle, you would have acted, wouldn't you? And now, now that we are betrothed, you wish to show me that you are my Master, that I am powerless, defenceless to thy desire, and that I am thy wife, and I shall serve you as you command in our chamber. Is that not right, Legolas?"
"Aye," he gasped. "Aye, Éowyn. I am so sorry, my love. I do not wish to take advantage of..."
Legolas grunted as he felt her against him. His breathing was ragged, his blood hurtling through his veins.
"Do not be ashamed of thy desire, Legolas. It warms me to know that my future husband wants me so. You are not telling me everything though, my love," she said with a knowing look. "I can see it in thy eyes. I can feel it in thy body. You only need to say it, Legolas. Say it. Command me and it shall be done, Legolas."
Legolas swallowed hard and his mouth gaped. Éowyn smiled at him, her seductive gaze hypnotizing him.
"No, Éowyn," he sputtered, his voice filled with need. "Do not encourage this behaviour! It is not fair to thee, my love. I should not presume to…"
Éowyn kissed him, forcing her tongue into his mouth and pushing herself against him. She pulled back and kissed his cheek.
"If you wish to take me, my love," she whispered. "Then you will have to catch me first."
She rose swiftly, leaving him sitting on the ground and weak from their exchange of scandalous words. She smiled at him flirtatiously, before turning and descending gracefully from the tower. As she reached the wall, she heard a noise behind her and turned her head.
Legolas stood on the top of the tower, his figure lit by the starlight. His gaze was lustful and he sneered at her, his eyes raking her body covetously. Éowyn gasped as he stepped from the tower to the ground below, falling from an outrageous height and landing without a sound in a crouched position. No human would have attempted such a leap.
Her heart raced as she took off towards Meduseld, reaching the stairs and running up them quickly. She could hear his footsteps fast behind her and she wrenched open the door to the Golden Hall and dove inside. Quickly taking in her surroundings, she smiled as she ducked to the side and kept to the columns along the dark corridor beyond the main hall.
Legolas practically leapt through the door, running into the Golden Hall. He stopped suddenly as the eyes of the night watchmen looked back at him.
"Lord Legolas," a guard said respectfully. "May we be of assistance?"
"Nay," Legolas replied in as calm a voice as he could muster. He thanked the Valar that his cloak covered his leggings at that moment. "Carry on."
He walked briskly, but properly down the hall, and Éowyn nearly laughed out loud at his predicament. She quietly disappeared down the hallway to their chamber, knowing he would be arriving soon enough.
Legolas reached the door to their chamber and found it locked. He smiled and shook his head. His arousal strained against his leggings. He pushed firmly against the door and it would not give. Even though Éowyn's room was in a secluded part of the Golden Hall, it would not do to tear the door down, although he expected she may have enjoyed seeing him do that in the moment. He smiled to himself as an idea came to him. He rattled the handle of her door several times so she would know he was there, then departed back down the hallway.
Éowyn sat up on her bed as the door shook several times. Her breathing quickened as she waited for the door to be blown off of its hinges and the image of her fierce Elf standing before her filled her mind. After several moments, she wondered where he had disappeared to. She began to regret locking the door. Even in his lustful state, he probably was afraid to arouse too much attention by breaking down the door. She rose and approached the door, being careful to stay off to the side just in case he was about to crush the door to pieces.
Firm hands suddenly seized her wrists and brought them tight behind her back. Her chest heaved as she arched her back at the sudden movement. His breath was warm against her cheek and his familiar voice stirred her passion and calmed her fear.
"You left thy window open, my Lady."
"You climbed the outside wall to reach my window?" she gasped.
"Aye. It was an easy task. I shall go to any lengths to capture my prey," Legolas growled.
He spun her around, and pressed her to his chest, keeping her wrists behind her back with one hand. She gasped in realizing he was already naked. His lips seized hers. She moaned into his mouth. Her smile was devilish as they came apart.
Still holding her wrists with one hand, his other hand moved between them and pulled at the fabric of her gown. Finding the row of buttons that held the garment together, Legolas stared at her wantonly before pulling hard and tearing the gown apart. Éowyn gasped as the fabric was pulled from her body and discarded to the floor.
Her nipples hardened as he pulled the laces of her corset. She was silently thankful he had not tried to tear the corset apart as that likely would have left rather unflattering marks on her skin. She did not have time to think as his fingers undid the corset skilfully and it soon joined her gown on the floor.
"You are aroused, my Lady. You enjoy being taken."
"Nay," she growled at him, keeping up the ruse. "I am the White Lady of Rohan and I do not surrender to any carnal…oh!"
His hand travelled down her cleavage and across her stomach before stroking her wet folds.
"You lie," he hissed.
He raised her into his arms and carried her to bed. He lay her on the bed and was soon atop her, spreading her legs and stroking her thighs. Éowyn smiled at his hard arousal.
She struggled against him, her arms still pinned behind her. She bit at his skin, writhing beneath him.
"If you wish to conquer me," she whispered. "Then you shall have to take me, Elf!"
Legolas growled in reply. He flipped her over on to her stomach, holding her wrists firmly against her back. His other hand moved down to her hip, stilling her movements and raising her to her knees.
Éowyn groaned in pleasure as she felt him bury himself into her. He raised her up and she sat back on his lap, their movements soon finding a common rhythm. His arm came around and held her firmly against his chest, rocking her back and forth, the sound of their quickened breathing filling the room.
Her head fell back on to his shoulder, his thrusts drawing gasps and whimpers from her throat. Her arms remained restrained behind her and his grip kept her locked against him. She could do nothing except move with him, accepting him fully and crying out as his pace grew more desperate.
"Éowyn! Éowyn!" he chanted, his eyes dark and his teeth bared. "I love you, Éowyn, I love you."
She wailed as she felt a climax build inside of her, heat radiating from her core and buttocks. She had never felt so full as he hilted himself inside of her again and again. She finally arched her back as pleasure erupted within her. Just as she reached her peak, Legolas' fingers flew down her front and rubbed her firmly at the precise spot that caused her to fall apart once more.
"Mine!" he snarled against her ear as she cried out. "Mine, Éowyn nin!"
"Legolas!" she called, feeling him finally release inside of her, and they fell to the blankets below, his grasp of her wrists finally easing and allowing her to turn and curl against him.
"Éowyn!" Legolas blinked, staring at her with wide eyes. "Are you...? Did I…?"
"Shh," she smiled, kissing him softly. "It is all right, my Lord. I am all right. I am wonderful, in fact."
Legolas looked at her suspiciously, his breathing slowly returning to normal. "My love, I did not mean to lose control like that. You do not deserve such a vile…"
"Legolas," she admonished him, kissing him again. "Do not be ashamed. Tonight is a night for hunters, my Lord. And you have hunted well."
He hugged her to him, kissing her hair. He began singing softly in Sindarin, lulling her to sleep.
"Next time, I may choose to conquer thee, my love," Éowyn mumbled, smiling against his chest.
Legolas laughed. "You already have, my Lady. You already have."