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I must be doing something right, you guys I can't express how much your support means to me. I have gotten such wonderful feedback, both in messages and reviews it has brought tears to my eyes. You are truly the best readers I could have imagined, even better if I'm being honest.
I realize that I may lose a few of you because of the stray from canon up to this point and it's not going to stray back with any further updates. To me this is what fanfiction was meant for. The whole premise of 'what if'
Now... onto the story! If it wasn't obvious before I still do not gain any wealth or compensation of any kind for my story. It's out of pure fun. I am not a Tolkien or a Rowling. So there's that familial disappointment.
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The sun rose over Helm's Deep, the rays of light reflecting off any remnants of armor that lay before the deeping wall. Many sentries had been given the task of gathering the enemies' armor and weapons to be reforged in the armory. Gandalf had assured Theoden that the charred earth would prove to provide a bountiful harvest during the next season. He had explained that from the ashes the soil would be twice as fertile as it had been in prior years. The news was pleasing to the King, his orders to station a number of soldiers and their families here to start their own settlement within the fort was well received.
King Theoden smiled as he overheard the banter of his people, a welcome sound after a battle. Many of his people adorned smiles he hadn't seen for months, all of Rohan would soon celebrate this victory. As king, however, he knew that while this battle may be over, the Horse Lords have only begun to play their part in this war. This conflict that threatened all of Middle Earth was at his very door and he had been blind for so long. Heaving a heavy sigh the monarch made his way to the battlements, overlooking the now razed valley floor. The light was beaming over the mountain tops, shining over the keep and illuminating the magical new growth.
"I'll be..." He chuckled. Even from here he could see the faint green haze over the grown, not only had Hermione burnt away their enemy she had started life from the very ashes. Indeed a new day was dawning.
Boromir stood with Eomer atop the battlement, observing some of the preparations for the building of homes and stables within the deeping wall. There were plans in place to tear down the old wall, moving out further towards the creek, expanding the walled portions to create another great city of Rohan. Aragorn and Gamling were walking the perimeter of the wall, seeing which portions could be refortified and which would need to be removed while Gimli... supervised the assessment. The Captain of Gondor watched the Marshall out of the corner of his eyes, assessing the man who had stolen his shield-sister's heart.
"Something on your mind, my Lord?" The horse-lord asked, having noticed the surveying eye of his companion.
"Just wondering of your intentions with the Lady." He replied curtly. "She is important to us, not just in aid of our cause. I'm sure that much is evident."
The blonde man nodded, crossing his arms and leaning against the rampart wall. "She has truly bewitched me. And I don't mean by some magic. Hermione has captivated me in a way I would have never thought possible." He sighed, a smile growing on his face. "I've asked her to be mine."
Boromir was shocked at the news. "When did this happen?"
"Before the battle, or before that... rather. You've see... the band she wears on her wrist, I gave it to her in Rivendell." Eomer sighed, gathering his thoughts as not to ramble as a star crossed lad before he continued. "It's a very significant, though very rarely practiced, courting tradition amongst my people, particularly Rohirrim Riders. It is called a war-band, a way for a Lady to promise her love while the Rider is off to war. She accepted my pledge last night before we faced the Uruks."
"I have never known Hermione to make a decision lightly, Eomer." Boromir observed, his eyes gazing out upon the valley as he chose his words carefully. "I will say only this; if you break her heart, or hurt her in any way, there is not a corner of Middle Earth that you will find haven from us."
"Us?" The Marshall cocked an eyebrow.
"Us." He turned sharply to see Legolas behind them, the elf's approach unseen or heard by the rider. "Hermione is more than a member of our party. She is our sister. We will protect her to any end."
Eomer understood their concern. He would share the same sentiment to whomever won his own sister's heart.
Hermione slept in Eomer's war quarters, the witch exhausted after the battle. Theoden had stationed a guard at her door, ordering that no one would disturb her as she recovered. His naming her High Sorceress was no honorary title, she had earned her place in the High Court of Rohan and would be treated as such. The brunette woman had curled under the various blankets and furs that Eowyn had brought her, ensuring her as much comfort as she could given the provisions. She hadn't stirred for hours, midday having come and gone over the keep. She barely stirred, her body as exhausted as her spirit. Never before had Hermione channeled so much energy and it would take her some time to recover.
Occasionally a few of her companions had checked on her, inquiring to the sentry with no change at each request. Gimli had stationed himself in the hall with the Rohirrim soldier, ensuring that one of her brothers would be there when she awoke.
The two sat in silence, both warriors vigilant at their posts.
Shuffling his boots against the stone floor Gimli was getting bored. The battle had taken its toll on everyone and the atmosphere showed. Most moved at a slower pace, walking rather than rushing about. Huffing slightly he turned to the man who held post with him.
"Your men are quite the soldiers. I was impressed by their fortitude in battle and am glad that this day has greeted them, and our victory, well." He opened his mouth as to say something further but instead he cleared his throat gruffly and nodded before turning his attention back to the stone wall of the corridor.
The young soldier was surprised, he knew that the dwarves could be an arrogant race, but not ones to offer praise to the other races. "Thank you, Master Dwarf. That is high remarks from one of the Dwarves of Erebor."
"Ah so word of my kin has reached the plains of the Horse-Lords? It's quite the feat for the tales of my people to be known even amongst young folk such as yourself." The dwarf beamed, his people always proud of their tales awing their neighbors in Middle-Earth. "We are a stout folk."
"Stout may be too soft a word, my friend." Aragorn rounded the corner with Boromir, both men still covered in the grime and dirt of the nights' battle. "I believe that bull headed may be best after our victory."
The dwarf huffed loudly. "I'll have you know Dwarven Battle tactics are well known in the annals of Middle Earth as the height of military strategy!"
Hermione smiled as she stretched, the light jovial conversation outside the door stirring her awake. She felt sore on a magical level she had never felt before. She sat up, gently toying with the band across her wrists. A part of her knew this was all so fast, she wasn't even from this world. This realm has grown on her, become part of her everyday being. Eomer was a key factor in that, one pointless in denying.
Sighing she stood, walking towards the small desk along the wall. Her beaded bag sat neatly beside her battered armor from the night before. Making a mental note to clean that later she dug out a change of clothing from her bag.
"What I wouldn't give for a bath." She murmured to herself.
It was true, she missed the comforts of home. The smell of a cup of tea while the rain washed down on a gray London afternoon. A Weasley dinner. Harry and Ron. If Hermione were being honest with herself she would admit that she'd been avoiding the thought of home for the mere circumstance as she had no clue on how to get home, or if she'd even live long enough to try. Besides, her wand was gone now, there would be no replacing that. Like it or not she had found herself in the middle of a war, once again. Perhaps this is how she thrives, under chaos and ruin to help rise from the rubble.
She wondered how her friends were doing. They'd built a wonderous life for themselves, a proud spectacle for each other to witness. Now that she was gone she knew that they'd be looking for her. Who knows how long she'd be gone to them. Gandalf has been here for an age, at least. Yet he died 10 years ago at Hogwarts. The magic behind her arrival here was still as unexplained and mysterious as it was the day she awoke in Rivendell.
Groaning in frustration she pulled a deep blue dress over her head, pulling the garment down roughly. The brunette huffed as she tightened the ribbons at her arms and waist. She hated things unanswered, had all her life. Questions have answers, she didn't put much stock in philosophical debate. Sure, for all she knew this could be a dream and she'll have awoken in Norway after exposure to some extremely paralytic, yet hallucionegic, spore that they disturbed by poking around the cave. Or she could have been the victim of a one-way rune prophecy, as Galadriel and Elrond advised, but that would mean England is gone forever.
Life can go on, she reminded herself. It is what life does. She has made immeasurable bonds here amongst the fellowship, as well as beyond it.
Once again her gaze landed on the war band. And once again it brought a smile to her face.
But for today, in this moment, she was still his.
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The weather in Oslo was foggy, a sight similar to their native London so not unfamiliar to the travelers. Arrangements to facilitate portkeys were well met by the Norwegian Ministry, who had been investigating Hermione's disappearance earnestly. They took the situation quite seriously and were eagerly willing to help. Draco surprised the group by speaking fluent Norwegian, playing translator to account for most of their accommodations.
"It's quite refreshing to learn something new about someone you've known for so long, isn't it?" Luna smiled. She was admiring a portrait that hung in the Minister's lobby. Draco had been examining the evidence that had been collected with their Unspeakables, for lack of a translatable title. Harry and Ron, however, did not meet the requirements for an Outsider to be allowed into their halls.
Ron smiled as he watched his wife, he'd yet to not be amazed by his wife's views of the world and those around them. He sat on the bench beside the painting the blonde woman was admiring with wide eyes, his foot tapping calmly. It wasn't an absent motion, he was attempting to apply a slower tempo to Harry's pacing. The raven haired auror had tread every which way around the room, multiple times. They'd been waiting for an hour, maybe only just moreso. Nothing unreasonable during an examination of evidence, something an auror should expect.
"Your pacing won't speed things up, Harry. Malfoy will go as fast as he can, but he's got to do his job, mate." Ron reminded his friend. "We will have our answer as soon as he can get it. If you insist on doing something that is other than wearing a new hallway on the MInister's floor why don't you go to the floos and see if Neville's gotten anywhere with the mushrooms?"
Harry heard the words, and it did register with him what had been suggested. He worried that Draco would emerge from that room with no answers and even more questions than when they landed. Before he had a chance to respond there was a knock at the door. The three british visitors turned their attention as the entrance swung open and they were greeted by a young sandy-haired man.
"You must be the guests who came to help with Miss Granger's disappearance?" The question didn't need to be answered, based on his tone. "My name is Fillip, I'm the one who went with her to the cave." He voice dropped sadly at the statement.
"It's nice to meet you, Fillip." Luna smiled sweetly, much to Harry's annoyance.
"Yes, greetings and what not." Harry grumbled. "Tell us everything."
Fillip hemmed and hawed quietly, moving to sit on an ottoman near the group, gesturing for the others to sit as well. Luna joined her husband while Harry remained standing. The Weasley couple could sense the young mans discomfort as he looked between the three.
"It was just another expedition. I've accompanied several wizards and witches back to the cave since then and each time I'm terrified I'll miss something else, that someone else will disappear." Taking a breath he continued. "Miss Granger and I landed near the lake at the base of the mountain before we portkeyed the rest of the way, so as not to expose the location of the cave to our pilots. They were muggles, of course."
"You speak excellent English." The blonde woman smiled sweetly as she complimented the squib. He blushed at the comment, nodding politely at the witch.
"Yes, thank you. Summer programs at Oxford." He provided a simple explanation, to Harry and Ron's relief before returning to his account. "Anyways, we portkeyed to the cave, no issues. Once inside she made careful and concise observations, dictating everything to me for the record. She had reached for a pair of gloves but hadn't yet put them on before she touched the wall... and..."
He trailed off, glancing to the side and the trio saw tears forming in his eyes. "I'll never forget her screams. I hear them every night. She was in pain, like she was being burned, patting her arms like she had flames on her clothes. I've never seen anything like it and before I knew it or could do anything to help she was just... gone."
It was in this moment that Harry realized that this young man was no more than a helpless bystander. He sat down opposite the Nord, offering a gentle smile. "None of this is your fault, Fillip."
The words caused him to look sharply at the Auror. "I should have done more!" He insisted, pleading to the missing woman's friends as if he carried the blame. Harry and Ron could see in his face that he had improperly placed this burden on himself.
"There is nothing more that you could have done." Ron insisted. "We're grateful you were there! If it hadn't been for you it may have been days before we realized something had happened."
"Have you been granted clearance on this?" Harry asked. He wanted to provide some comfort to the young man but wasn't sure if he'd be able to without compromising the investigation.
Fillip nodded in response, looking eagerly at the auror. "Yes, I've been at the cave everyday for months, documenting everything and taking as many samples as I possibly could, granted I can't do much beyond muggle means of analysis on my own but I've been -" He halted his ramble when Harry held up a hand gently pausing the man.
"We believe that Hermione was transported to another realm, that what you found in that cave was a portal." The brunette explained what he could to the young man, his eyes going wide with the new information. "We've uncovered some journals from a trusted source that show that this travel is not the first of its kind."
Luna's smile at the mention her Father being a trusted source was noticed by her husband, who could tell that his wife was proud of the statement.
"What can I do?" The aurors smiled collectively at the statement and were about to begin brainstorming when the door opened again and in walked Draco, a handful of scrolls under his arm.
"I know what we need to do."
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The walls of Helms Deep stood strong as the sun was high in the sky over the valley, groups of Rohan citizens already leading a few ploughs through the charred earth, churning the soil which would prove fruitful in the coming seasons. Hermione walked along the rampart, watching the bustle with curiosity and pride. A few masons had already repaired the breached portion, adding a new causeway to the inner courtyard. She'd seen them planning the expansion and she swelled with pride knowing that she'd not only saved these people, her people, but she'd given them hope.
"There you are!" She turned to see Eowyn coming up the stairway, a smile on her face. "Eomer just told me!" Before the witch could react she was embraced in a hug that would've made Molly proud. "I will be honored to call you sister." She whispered as she clutched the woman tightly.
The whispered words brought tears to her eyes as she clung to the woman earnestly. "The honor is mine, Eowyn." She pulled back, fondly holding the womans hands before them. "This is more than I could have ever expected. I never expected to find love in a war, let alone a welcoming new family."
Eowyn beamed at the young woman, brushing a bit of hair from the brunette's forehead. "Now, tell me everything, I can't imagine you've had much feminine company in your travels. This is the closest we will get to a day of leisure so we should take our advantage." She linked their arms as they continued along the wall.
"What do you want to know?" Hermione asked, slightly nervous that she would get a Ginny-level interrogation.
The lady of the court gave her companion the look that needed no translation amongst present company. The silent exchange quickly turned to the two sharing a fit of giggles that was more than a jovial moment between friends. It was needed.
"We should make our way back to Edoras, my King." Eomer and his Uncle sat in the Keep's Hall, discussing their next steps in this war. "It will only be a matter of time before Saruman will move an attack on the Golden City. We should call the others, we would benefit from their council."
The monarch nodded in agreement, his nephew bringing a valid point. He sat at one of the war tables, a plate of stew before him, mostly untouched. He'd seen wartime during the reign of his father but those tactics would prove useless against either front they faced. The Fellowship he was hosting had proven invaluable in the preceding battle, providing insight on a tactical level he hadn't expected from such a band of variants.
"And of Hermione's council?" The King asked, the inquiry meant for his nephew and not his Marshall. "I am not surprised you have fallen for her, she is an astounding woman."
A smile crossed the rider's face. "Astounding is too simple a word, uncle. She is a force unlike Middle-Earth has ever seen and she could be just what this world needs."
"She is just one woman, Eomer. Do not mistake that comment for disdain, she is a fine match and you have chosen well. I am glad she has accepted the band." Theoden sighed, carefully collecting his thoughts before continuing. "However, we can't place the entirety of our worldly woes on Hermione, for all her power she is just one."
"You misunderstand me, my King." The Marshall stood, beginning to pace the length of the table. "She demands respect, while also granting hope where there was none. She will defend with one hand and heal with the other. Her first thought is never of herself but of those around her and their safety. Hermione is unlike any I have ever known and I have fallen to the core of my soul for her."
The king was silent for a moment, his hand idly tapping the spoon beside his stew. "Did I ever tell you the day your mother came home with Eomund's war band?" He whispered lightly, his words almost unheard.
Eomer was stunned, very rarely had Theoden spoken of his sister or her husband. Theodwynn had passed of grief, a widows' death, when he and his sister were very young. Most of the memories of his father were when Eomund would be leaving with the raiding parties, but very little else.
"She'd found me in the kitchens, beaming as I'd never seen her." Theoden smiled fondly, still not meeting his nephew's eyes as he stood, moving to look out the window overlooking the keep. He could see Hermione and Eowyn walking along the wall, arm in arm. He need not hear the laughter that was etched on their faces to catch their contagious smiles. "She barely made it through the door before she waved the band in front of my eyes. 'He's asked me, he's asked me!' She was glowing that day. Father was thrilled, of course. Eomund was one of his best riders."
Sighing he turned back to his nephew who now stood behind him. "I see that beam in your eyes when you talk of your Lady, Eomer. I am proud of you, but above all I am happy for you. I simply fear the burdens you will both have to bear. With Theodred gone..." He trailed slightly before continuing. "Eomer you must realize that one day, when my reign is ended, the throne will pass to you. The question I have for you is simple: Do you think your love is ready to be a Queen?"
The Marshall felt the question as a punch to his gut. He hadn't thought of that. He was now the heir to the Throne of Rohan, and had inadvertently pulled Hermione into this monarchy as well. She had her own burdens and obligations, how could he add a throne on top of all she'd yet to face?
He looked to his uncle with pleading eyes. "What do I do, Uncle? I can't lose her."
The King placed a firm hand on his shoulder, seeing his own son for a moment. He'd never have the chance to talk to his own son about these matters of the heart but he would not pass the opportunity to advise his nephew.
"Then go to her, tell her all you can. You will make a decision together."
By the time dusk fell upon Helm's Deep plans were in place to make the journey back to Edoras at first light. The journey would take the majority of the day, though many planned to stay behind to establish the city. Hermione was already packed, the only thing she was missing was her armor, the smithy was still working on it's repairs and assured her that he would personally bring them to Edoras if they weren't finished by daybreak. She wondered what the coming days would bring. She knew that their journey could not halt in the plains of Rohan, the threat to the East hadn't waned in it's growing influence.
She hadn't seen Eomer all day, most of it spent with his sister. She knew he was busy, he had been holed up in the war room with Theoden for most of the day. Once she'd seen the preparations being put in place she knew what most of the days' planning had entailed. From Edoras their path would be an unknown. As long as Isengard stood Edoras would not be safe.
A creak at the door alerted her to company and she turned to see Gandalf at her door. He had cleaned up since the battle, his robes once again a clean white fabric.
"I take it you've heard the King's plan?" He smiled, not surprised at the Gryffindor's preparedness.
Nodding she patted her bag as it sat on the small table beside her. "All set." She sighed, tracing the pattern on the fabric. "What now?"
"Now we regroup in Edoras." The wizard answered, moving into the room and sitting at the end the bedframe. "From there we will make our next move."
"Against Isengard or Mordor?" She asked, staring him in the eye. "I'm no longer your student, Albus. Do not treat this war as you did the last and underestimate the pawns you've put in play for our side."
Gandalf was taken aback by her tone, as well as hearing that name again. His eyes glanced warily towards the door before he continued. "My dear, I wouldn't begin to compare this to what you faced in your youth. What I did then was... reprehensible. I saw my students as a mean to an end and in that moment I failed them all, not just Harry." He set his staff against the post, rubbing his hands in thought. "This is different, Hermione and you know that. You've seen as much. And I daresay you will have a greater sway over this war than I."
Her brow furrowed at the comment, her eye glancing to Nenya on her hand. "Me?"
"It has been many years since more than one ring bearer walked Middle Earth. You and I both know that Frodo does not possess the will to control the magic of the One Ring but you have managed to gain the favor of Nenya, as well as it's former bearer." The wizard gestured towards the window that overlooked the courtyard. "You conqured Fiendfyre! A spell that the likes of Nicholas Flamel never even attempted! You are more powerful than you are giving yourself credit for."
"I took a risk. I can't explain what happened but... the ring told me I could do the spell. I saw my targets in my head and the magic listened to me." The witch walked over to the window, the charred earth hidden under the shadow of the mountain. "I could have killed us all, Gandalf."
"But you didn't." They both looked to the doorway to see Aragorn leaning against the arch. "Hermione you are the reason that this Keep is still standing. That is no small feat and you insult yourself by treating it as such."
Exasperated she scoffed. "Alright, I get it! I saved us in battle and the day was saved. But will anyone listen to what I am asking now?!" Her eyes flashed with anger and her voice was dripping with irritation.
The men exchanged glances, this wasn't like her and clearly something more was on her mind than the coming journey back to the Golden City.
"Isengard or Mordor?" She crossed her arms over her chest. "Both must fall but how can we expect to face the armies of Mordor while he has an ally still strong at the base of the mountains?"
Aragorn nodded in understanding of her frustration. "I agree, Hermione. As long as Saruman remains a threat we would be hardpressed to make an advance on Mordor. Besides we have heard no word from Minas Tirith on the Gondor lines."
"Could Boromir reach out? Send a rider from here!" Hermione suggested feverishly. "Surely he would answer a call to arms from his Captain, let alone his son."
Gandalf shook his head sadly. The young witch simply didn't understand the fanatical hold that the steward of Gondor had over the rule of Gondor. Denethor had largely depicted himself as King in all but title and his people were paying the price. The last news out of Osgilith that Mithrandir had heard was nothing short of troubling. "I am afraid it is not that simple when it comes to matters of the Steward."
"Then I'll go myself if I have to, you know I will." She countered, not backing down. "We need a plan or we may as well surrender." She rubbed the bridge of her nose, turning away from her companions. "I don't want to fight, I will find you in the morning before we head out."
The ranger nodded in understanding, helping Gandalf to stand. "Goodnight, Hermione." She didn't look as he closed the door behind them. Turning to the wizard he gestured down the hall away from the chambers.
"She is right, Aragorn. I fear that while her points are valid Theoden might see an advance to Gondor as too great a risk to his men." Gandalf stared ahead of them, his mind turning through different scenarios. "He called for their aid and he was denied. Few kings would hold their neighbors in high regard after such a betrayal."
"I can hardly say I blame him, Gandalf, but we face an enemy that should overcome any kingdom slights." Aragorn retorted.
"I never said it was the smart thing for Theoden to do." The wizard replied. The pair rounded the corner to find Eomer leaning against a window frame, overlooking the inner courtyard as several wagons were being loaded.
"You seem lost in thought, Eomer." The old man commented. "I am sure you're eager to return to the Golden Hall to celebrate our victory."
The blonde man nodded mutely and Aragorn came to stand beside him. "You are worried." The ranger did not pose a question, but rather an observation. Gandalf took this as his cue to depart and he left the other men alone in the corridor.
"I have brought an unfair burden to Hermione and I do not know how to tell her." Eomer confessed, his eyes distant and sad. "With my cousins death I am now heir to the throne. Which means my betrothed would be my peoples' future queen. How do I ask her to take on such a task?"
This was no easy question for Aragorn to answer. Hermione was his sister, a bond forged in their journey and it made an opinion on this conundrum quite difficult. "I take it you haven't spoken to her yet. I just came from her quarters and she didn't mention that."
The Marshall shook his head. "I haven't spoken to her since we parted this morning."
The Ranger reached over and gripped his shoulder, turning the man to look at him. "Go to her. Do not be intimidated by the questions that you forget to ask them. She lives to solve problems and that is how she will see this, as a riddle to solve."
The man nodded in understanding. "I know you are right. Tonight I simply long for her company. We will have better chance to talk privately in Edoras." He smiled, reaching up and clasping his friend's shoulder in like. "Thank you, Aragorn. Your guidance is much appreciated."
Eomer took a deep breath before lifting the latch on the door leading to his quarters. There was a small flame burning in the fireplace and it emitted a faint glow, just enough to show the sleeping form of Hermione on the bed. She'd fallen asleep atop the furs, her gown draped over the side of the bed. He smiled at the sight.
Closing the door gently behind him he made his way over to the hearth, adding a few logs to it to keep the heat going through the night. He managed to remove his cuirass with little noise but he was unable to remove the chainmail without waking the witch. She stirred as the heavy metal garment clanked to the table.
"Eomer?" Her groggy voice small with sleep.
"I didn't mean to wake you, my love." He whispered, unlacing his boots as she sat up on the bed. He smiled at her as she moved the furs aside for them. Kicking his boots aside he joined her on the bed, pulling her close. "I missed you today, my sorceress."
She melted into his embrace, her worries subsiding for at least a moment in his arms. "I missed you too. I spent most of my day with Eowyn."
He gently brushed her hair back, looking down at her fondly. "It makes me happy that you've gained her friendship."
"I think it might make her even happier, she's had quite the lack of feminine camaraderie." Hermione smiled, looking up to meet his eyes. He could sense something on her mind, her gaze seemed laced with a sadness beneath the surface.
"What is it?" He asked. "You are not at ease."
She shook her head, agreeing with him. She adjusted herself to lay in the crook of his arm, staring at the ceiling. "We may be leaving for Edoras with the dawn but I doubt we will watch many from it's walls before we depart." Her voice hitched and he kissed her head gently before she continued. "It seems so unfair to leave you again but the war is only beginning, Rohan was just caught in this wave."
He nodded. War was no stranger to him and he knew that as much as Hermione attempted to strategize she may find herself out of her element. He pulled the furs up around them, tucking her into their warmth. "War is never an ideal place to find yourself. Even soldiers do not wish for war. But in the midst of all this darkness I have found you. We take each tomorrow at it's dawn and no more."
"But we will-"He placed a finger gently to her lips.
"Tonight I have you. We have this." He brought her hand close to gaze at the war-band that had not left it's place. "That is all I need until tomorrow."
Her eyes welled as he kissed her wrist with the softness of a feather. "Eomer..." She whispered. "I'm frightened of tomorrow."
"We face it together, my lady." He answered, sealing the promise with a kiss.
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"Mornin' laddies!" Gimli's boisterous voice echoed in the dining hall, startling a very tired and groggy Boromir. The Captain's response was a haphazardly tossed mug of water towards the dwarf who dodged it easily.
"That's almost an Erebor greeting!" He laughed. "I spotted pointy-ears by the stables already readying the horses. Aragorn? Gandalf?"
The man finished his bread and pork before answering. "They are in with the King. Planning the best route back to the city." He stood, handing his plate to a young boy who was gathering various dishes and mugs from around the hall. Many families were staying behind, making good work for themselves within the keep. He ruffled the lads hair and handed him a coin before leaving with the dwarf.
"Why is the Captain of Gondor not offering advice during such planning?" Gimli wondered aloud.
Boromir sighed loudly. Sometimes he really didn't care for the over opiniation of the dwarven people. "Gondor and Rohan were once great allies. Our men fought side by side and our children would play in times of peace. My father has done nothing to preserve that alliance. He could be blamed, in fact, for it's dissolve. I do not wish to strain that already tense relationship."
The son of Gloin said nothing, nodding in understanding. Allies had turned to borders in this current middle earth, something the dwarves knew all to well.
The pair walked towards the stables in silence, the horses would be ready faster with three of the companions saddling.
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Hermione woke before Eomer, the faint streaks of light indicative of dawn came through the window. The dim light was calming, romantic even if she was feeling fantastical. Eomer's hair was strewn about the pillow, clearly not a graceful sleeper as a small snore escaped his slightly opened mouth. They'd slept in each other's arms and she knew they both needed the comfort. The coming days were truly going to test them both, though she had no idea just how far their resolves could hold.
Easing herself out of bed she quietly placed his boots and cuirass at the end of the bed, it would make quick his getting ready. She looked down at her dress and she didn't want to wear such a gown for riding. Glancing back and seeing her lover still asleep she risked the impropriety to change in the same room. It would have been rude to wake him only to ask him to leave.
Pulling the garment over her head she noticed that many of her bruises had deepened in color overnight, marring her skin with angry purple blotches. They'd heal on their own but she still cursed herself for not bothering to cover them with a salve yesterday. They were sure to cause her discomfort on the way back to Edoras. She let the garment fall to the floor as she reached into her bag to pull out a spare tunic which would allow for much more comfortable riding. The room was cold, the embers in the hearth barely orange in the ashes and her skin tensed to the chill.
Hermione barely got her hand into the beaded bag when she stilled at the touch of lips on her shoulder. She set the bag back to the table as Eomer's hands wrapped gently around her, his body warm against her.
"This is a wonderful sight to wake to, my flower." He whispered, his breath against her ear causing her own to catch in her throat.
"We... should be getting ready, the others will be waiting." She murmured. "Eomer..."
He turned her to face him, not stopping her attempt to cover herself. "Let them wait, they won't leave without us."
She giggled at the comment, leaning in to kiss him. He met her kiss with passion, running his fingers through her hair. His other hand found the bare skin at the small of her back and pulled her closer. Casting a locking spell towards the door Hermione walked them back towards the bed, succumbing to what may be her last chance at a private moment with the man who'd captured her heart.
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"You want us to drink the hallucinogenic mushroom tea in the middle of a dark cave that transported Hermione to another realm and hope that we can talk to some old wizard who visited Luna's dad when she was a kid?" Ron stared incredulously at the blonde Unspeakable as he suggested the idea.
"No." Draco answered shortly. "You weren't listening, Weasley. I think Luna should drunk the tea in the cave while we monitor the situation."
That answer did not sit well with the ginger. "Not a chance. No way am I letting her do that alone."
"I won't be." His wife's small voice rang behind him. "It would be lovely to see Radagast again."
He stared slack jawed at the comment. "Lovely?! What part of that is lovely?"
Harry had to admit that it was the best plan they'd had to date and he didn't even seem to be bothered by the fact that it was Malfoy's plan. He understood Ron's hesitation, too. They'd be asking Luna to take an incredible risk. Though, it seemed, she didn't share the same concerns.
"Ronald you can't expect me to sit idly by. Hermione would do the same for any of us." Luna stepped between her husband and the former Slytherin. "I am doing this. The best thing you can do for me and for her is stand guard."
"How long until Longbottom can get the mushrooms cultivated?" Draco asked Harry, gesturing to let the Weasley's talk amongst themselves.
"I could floo to Hogwarts tonight. Fillip said we could get to the cave by noon tomorrow, plenty of time to get myself in and out." Harry smiled at his former nemesis. "This could work, Malfoy. This is the closest thing we have had to a lead in months."
"We should bring the Palantir with us, too. I think it might also be used to bridge the realms, though I don't know how." The blonde rubbed the back of his neck. "I bet Hermione would know."
"Well let's find her." He extended his hand towards the blonde man. "Together. Then you can ask her."
Smiling Draco accepted the hand. "Together, Potter."
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The ride back to Edoras was not as hard as the initial venture. Nearly a fifth of the citizens had opted to stay at Helm's Deep so there were less in the walking party, this allowed for an increase in speed. Hermione rode alongside Eowyn near the King and his riders, Aragorn and Legolas near the middle of the caravan and Boromir and Gimli stationed at the rear. Eomer, Gandalf and a few of the riders had gone ahead to scout the route and make sure that there were no Warg packs lying in wait. Returning to the city brought a wave of apprehension to Hermione, she didn't know what to make of the scenarios running through her head. The lady of the court had attempted small conversation with the witch but she remained stoic for much of the ride.
"Theoden!" Gandalf's voice was booming over the plain, Eomer at his side. Hermione's attention was quickly diverted. Their steeds rushed to the King, Aragorn and Legolas spurring their own horses forward. "Smoke from Isengard!"
The King was shocked at the news. He looked back at Hermione, his eyes questioning whether her fire magic had spread so far as to the Western Tower itself. Her expression seemed to be of confusion so he left that to rest. Turning to his niece he ordered her to finish the journey with their people and get them safely to Edoras.
Legolas turned to retrieve Boromir and Gimli, the fellowship must confirm if the tower had, in fact, fallen. The would reach the edges of Fangorn within the hour and it took less than half that to see the spires of smoke reaching towards the skies. The closer they came to Isengard the more Nenya began to glow and vibrate on Hermione's finger. This place was evil and her ring was warning her. As the tower came into view it sent a sinking feeling deep to the pit of her stomach. The walls rose above the horizon and the group made their way into the treeline to provide a covered approach. As their horses slowed through the wood Eomer held back to fall beside Hermione.
"My uncle wonders if your magic could have truly reached so far as Isengard." He told her, knowing she must have sensed the king's eyes on her throughout the ride. "Do you think it's so?"
She shrugged in response. "I doubt it, but my magic is tenfold what it used to be."
"Oh! Ho ho!" She looked up with joy as she heard the voice of Merry through the eaves of the trees,waving from atop the battlement. "Welcome, my Lords and Lady, to Isengard!"
"Merry! Pippin!" She urged her horse as close to the wall as she could, rushing to the hobbits she'd sent running into the woods weeks ago. "You're alright!"
The hobbits scurried down the stone as the witch approached, greeting her with smiles as she dropped down from her saddle, enveloping her friends in a crushing hug. She'd feared she would never see them again, that they would be trapped in the forest or worse.
"What is all this, then?" Gimli asked, nudging a barrel near the wall.
"Spoils of war!" Pippin beamed. He handed Hermione a strip of salted pork and winked. "It's quite good. Saruman had quite the stores at his disposal."
"Had?" Gandalf inquired, the word slow as his gaze traveled towards the tower.
"Treebeard is in charge now. He told us to find use for anything found and we found the food." Merry explained.. "He's going to want to talk to you, Gandalf."
The white wizard nodded, urging Shadowfax through a small gate and into the flooded courtyard of what was once a sanctuary of all mages and scholars of middle earth. Hermione pulled Merry up onto her horse, Pippin pulled to ride with Eomer. The horses were up to their knees in the water, a murky mix of mud and debris. Uruk and orc bodies floated in the water, no doubt having drowned in the pits as they flooded. Gandalf approached the ent standing guard at the door as the group surveyed the damage around them.
"Something isn't right, Eomer." She whispered to her rider as they approached the tower. "There's something else here."
"Have you come to kill me, then Gandalf? Your old teacher!" Saruman's voice echoed down to the crowd below. "And Theoden, King! Why this is a royal greeting, indeed. Lord of the horse lords and the filthy barren plains of Rohan."
Hermione sneered at the voice, his words dripping with arrogance.
"End this madness, Saruman!" Gandalf shouted. "You were once the most wizened counsel in all of Middle Earth, you can be that again. End this hold your master has on you, come back to the light."
"You know nothing of my master! He is all our master!" The wizard cackled, the sound laced with instability. "You think he has ahold on me that I have not welcomed and embraced? You are a fool, a leader of fools, Gandalf the white!"
His eyes scanned the crowd below him until his gaze landed on Hermione. "What's this? The witch I've heard so much of who burned my army to the ground like a brush fire?!" He scoffed, not even hiding his disdain. "You are barely more than a child. Is this the best you can muster, Gandalf? Some little girl with a wand?"
Hermione seethed, her anger boiling up inside her. Little Girl?
"Watch Merry." She got out through gritted teeth to Eomer before dismounting her horse and wading through the water towards the tower, Nenya glowing brightly on her finger.
"Come to challenge me?" Saruman sneered. "I've no problem putting you in your place, cur!"
Hermione looked up just in time to see a ball of fire hurdled towards her from the wizard's staff. Nenya burst with light, encompassing the witch in a bright blue light that repelled the flame around it as no more than a passing cloud. The water at her feet began to repel away from her, splashing around her as she began to levitate above the surface of the flooded courtyard. The flames dispersed, giving the witch a perfect view of Saruman and the ledge he stood on.
She doubted he'd ever seen the likes of apparation.
The look on his face when she appeared in front of him a moment later proved her suspicion. Grima sat cowering against one of the points of the tower, whimpering in fear.
"I have no wand, my magic has bonded with something greater than you'll ever understand. Small men only yearn for great magic. But great magic is granted to those who deserve it." Reaching forward she grasped his staff and yanked it from his grasp, tossing it over the side without a second glance. Both men gaped at her, Saruman in horror and Wormtongue in awe.
"You mark your foul creatures with the palm of your hand, the 'White Hand' of Saruman. A coward's mark if I ever saw one." Hermione scoffed. "What are you now, old man?" Nenya still shone brightly as the witch circled her prey, deciding what to do with him. "You tried to take the lives of those close to me, those I call family."
Saruman glanced down at Gandalf, a pleading look on his face. He was met with a smirk as Gandalf now held two staves.
"Please, mercy!" The fallen wizard begged the woman before him. "Spare me. I can tell you everything about Sauron's plans!"
"Of course I am going to spare you, coward." She practically spat the word out before grabbing his face with both hands. "Obliviate."
The wizard before her turned to a simple old man before her eyes. No longer did his gaze hold a cunning arrogance but a simpleness. He looked around and cried out in fear at the height of their perch, falling to his knees and clinging to Hermione's leg.
"How did we get up here, young lady?!" He cried sharply, his fingers tight on her boots. "Please get us down!" He called out to the group below.
She glanced over at Wormtongue who stared at her, dumbfounded and terrified. "Wait here. I haven't decided what to do with you, yet." She apparated with a loud crack, bringing the cowering old man with her to the tower stairs.
Gandalf was waiting at the base with Shadowfax. "Thank you, Hermione." He smiled sadly at his former friend.
"What should we do with him? The witch asked, shaking her leg free from the man who now sat in disbelief on the stairs. "He probably can't even remember his name if I did what I intended to do."
"I think it's time for an overdue visit to Radagast the brown, old friend." Gandalf smiled, lending Saruman a hand. Hermione glanced past the wizard, descending the stairs until she could beckon Theoden closer.
"What of him?" She asked pointing up at the tower citadel where a small figure peered over the edge. "I know he is a man of Rohan so I will let you decide."
The King was taken aback by the witch. After her display of intolerance towards Grima's actions at Edoras he was surprised she was willing to show him leniency now.
"Please, may I speak to him? Alone?" Theoden requested.
"I don't know if that is such a good idea, sir." She replied. "He could easily push you off with the proper footing."
"With a guard, then?" He countered. "Say Aragorn or Gamling?"
Glancing at the two men he'd suggested she deemed it a reasonable compromise. Gesturing for the Rohan captain to make his way over she had both men dismount their horses before joining her on the stairs. Reaching for their arms she apparated both men up in an instant before returning to the ground to let the men discuss the affair at hand.
Eomer had already dismounted and was waiting for her. He led the horses that the hobbits sat upon towards the bottom of the stairs. Gandalf had sat Saruman down and was explaining to him that he had been the caretaker of this fortress when the dam had burst. In the catastrophe he had been hurt and would now be spending his days resting and healing with his old friend Radagast.
"I'd have killed him." Eomer told her as she reached his side.
"I wasn't about to give him an out. Now he will live out the remainder of his days ignorant, yet, disgraced." She sighed, reaching for his hand. "The land here is hurt, it'll take time to heal. Once he is gone it will have a chance to." She waited until she saw Gamling peek over the edge. She apparated up, ready for anything.
"He will come to Edoras and face a tribunal for his actions. Then we shall see what is to become of him, then." Theoden spoke sadly. As a king it pained him to see one of his people so fallen. Nodding her understanding she took each man down to the courtyard one at a time, leaving Grima in Boromir's custody.
"What's that thing?" Pippin's voice was followed by a splash. They glanced over at the hobbit to see him wading through chest deep water. "Look!"
Walking over she saw him reach down into the water and pull a large orb out of the murkiness. It was large, Hermione would have likened it to a bowling ball. The surface was shiny, yet its center seemed fluid, moving.
"Pip! Put that down!" Merry scolded, still atop Eomer's horse. "That looks like something for a wizard and you are not a wizard you stupid Took!"
"Hand it over, come on." Hermione reached for the orb but the moment she had her hands on it she and the hobbit screamed in pain. Their skin seemed seared to the surface, unable to release it.
A voice pounded in their heads. Screaming, demanding answers as it barraged their minds with questions. When the answers were not immediately made known the their bodies were ravaged with more pain.
"Hermione, no!" Gandalf rushed down the stairs, thrusting a swatch of his rob atop the orb, prying it from their hands. It steamed beneath his cloak as Eomer quickly scooped up the hobbit before he collapsed beneath the water.
"We must get them to Edoras, quickly!" He gasped, struggling to wrap the orb in his robes. "Treebeard you must send word to Radagast, tell him he must make haste for Isengard." The Ent nodded in understanding, moving towards the forest.
"Mithrandir what was that, what's happened to them?" Eomer demanded, rushing to Hermione's side as she lay collapsed on the stairs. Pippin lay unconscious in the Marshall's arms, like a child. The sight stilled the wizard.
"Gandalf?!" Merry shouted, staring at his friend in horror.
"A palantir. Quick, we make for the Golden Hall."
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