Chapter Seventeen
One Year Later
"Well, this is it." Imrahil said, looking over at his daughter from his mount. "Rohan." The vast green fields swept into hills after the group's passage through the White Mountains. The grass swayed, leaving a sweet scent upon the air.
Erchirion sighed, glancing unhappily at his sister, "A wild country sister, would it not be better to turn back now?"
Lothiriel gave her brother an amused look, "You say that every mile of the journey!" She accused with a smile. "And besides." She looked out over the rolling hills, covered in grass, swaying in the breeze. "I think it is wonderful." She then urged her horse forward, followed by her Father who gave Erchirion a scolding look.
Erchirion rolled his eyes, and followed suit. "You better like it, Lothiriel!" He called to his sister, hurrying to catch up. Lothiriel had been riding almost everyday for the past year, and had taken to it well. "But remember, just say the word and-"
"And you'll come as fast as you can to escort me back to Dol Amroth." Lothiriel rolled her eyes. "And so you have told me everyday since we set out! Really, Erchirion! I am beginning to think I should have brought Elphir or Amrothos instead!"
Lothiriel's escort was composed of her Father, Erchirion, and a handle of Knights. Her other brothers were needed to run the city. It had been a difficult goodbye to be sure. The hardest part was explaining to her dear nephew that she was going away. The little boy had cried terribly when she left. She had promised to send messengers often, and to visit. Elphir and Amrothos were both trying to put a strong face on, but she could tell they would miss her terribly, and she them. Then she thought of her new life with Eomer and felt a bit better. She shifted excitedly in her saddle at the thought of seeing him again. Lothiriel then looked at Erchirion and gave him a smile. She had chosen Erchirion to ride to Edoras with her because he was always her closest brother, and she doubted he would stay behind even if she had asked it.
"Please cheer up brother." She asked. "I hate to spend these hours with you when you are behaving like a child."
Erchirion sighed, watching his sister. Soon he would lose her for they were fast approaching Edoras. A smile crept across his face, but not yet. "A child am I?" He asked. "Well then, I suppose you'll have to catch me!" He urged his horse into a run, bolting ahead of Lothiriel.
"Oh you are such a child!" She laughed, pushing her own horse to catch up with him. Lothiriel soon passed her brother, using her lighter weight to her advantage and outlasting him by a long shot. Her eyes sparkled as they raced across the fields
Imrahil watched his children with a smile, he then turned to one of his close advisors, "And she is getting married?" He joked, watching as she passed her brother, laughing at him as her hair flew wildly behind her.
Lothiriel then slowed to a stop, realizing she was far ahead of the rest of the group. "That will show him." She said, giving her horse an appreciative pat and dismounted to stretch her legs a bit, her horse took this opportunity to munch on the tall grass that grew in the field.
Erchirion soon caught up to his sister, a grin on his face. "Well dear sister, you already ride like a Rohirrim." He teased, dismounting as well.
Lothiriel grinned, "Good. Although it would not take a person from Rohan to beat you, dearest brother."
Erchirion made a face and was about to comment back when something in the distance caught his eye. Lothiriel noticed too, and watched as a group of Riders approached, the green banner of Rohan flew in the wind, making the white horse seem to dance in the sunlight.
Erchirion turned to his sister, "Your new husband approaches, sister."
She grinned, her eyes shinning as they drew near. She could see Eomer riding at the front and resisted the urge to ride towards them. Instead, she waited, quickly running a hand through her hair and bringing some order to her riding dress.
Erchirion rolled his eyes, "You look fine sister."
Lothiriel glared at him, "You are my brother, you are supposed to say that!"
Erchirion grinned, but did not reply. The Riders finally reached them and came to a stop in front of them.
Eomer smiled broadly at the sight of Lothiriel and Erchirion. "Hail Lothiriel and Erchirion of Dol Amroth, welcome to Rohan." He said simply.
Erchirion nodded, he was under orders from his father to be polite, his father had threatened that if Erchirion misbehaved he would be sent back home. Erchirion agreed to behave, but only if Eomer did as well, causing Lothiriel to get rather annoyed at her brother and spent a day not speaking to him rather childishly.
Eomer dismounted and quickly crossed the distance between himself and Lothiriel. "How fares my Lady?" He asked softly, his eyes locking with hers.
Lothiriel took a deep breath, "My heart flies with joy at seeing you, my Lord." She managed to say before throwing her arms around him in an embrace.
Eomer smiled, holding her a moment, then stepped back, kissing her hand. "The year has been good to you my Lady."
"And to you, Eomer King, though the days were far too long." She replied.
Erchirion watched the exchange, and could not help but smile. His sister really did seem happy to see the young King.
Imrahil and the rest of the escort soon came riding over the hill. Imrahil smiled and dismounted to greet his son-in-law with a clasp on the back. "Hail to the King of the Mark." He greeted.
Eomer smiled, greeting the Prince warmly. "And to the Prince of Dol Amroth. I thank you for escorting the finest treasure of your city to my lands."
Erchirion laughed, "That treasure would not have otherwise." He commented.
Lothiriel gave her brother an appreciative smile, for she was glad he was being agreeable, and not chasing Eomer through Rohan.
Imrahil smiled as well, "Yes, she can be awfully stubborn, I do hope you know what you are getting into, Eomer."
Eomer laughed, "Yes, well, I look forward to the challenge."
Lothiriel rolled her eyes, "I suggest you both take a look at what I grew up with!"
The three men laughed, and Eomer stepped forward, kissing her hand again. "Forgive me, my Lady." He said with a grin. He then turned to the rest of the group. "Now, Edoras awaits your arrival with great anticipation. Come!"
Eomer rode with Lothiriel, Erchirion, and Imrahil at the front of the escort. He told them of the guests that had come for their wedding. His sister, Eowyn, had arrived two days ago with her husband and Lothiriel's cousin, Faramir. King Elessar had even come with his wife, Arwen. It would be quite the ceremony tomorrow. He teased Lothiriel, requesting that she stay away from the ale. Erchirion laughed at this, commenting that it would liven things up a bit, causing Lothiriel to give her brother and appreciative smack on the head.
When they came into view of Edoras Eomer turned to Lothiriel as they paused a moment, looing at the city on the hill, before the glistening White Mountains.
"It is not as grand as the city of Dol Amroth." He said softly.
Lothiriel looked at him and then at the city, set against the sparkling clean mountains. "It is wonderful Eomer. It is home." She said softly with a smile, holding out a hand to him
He turned to her, and took her hand, a smile spreading across his lips. "And it waits the arrival of its future Queen."
* * * * * * * * * * *
It was the night before the wedding, and it seemed no one could rest. Eomer paced the now empty Hall at Meduseld, watching the flames in the fireplace slowly die to glowing embers. He knew he should rest, he knew tomorrow was a big day, but Eomer could find no rest. He considered the embers a moment, sitting in a chair before the fire, deep in thought, when light footsteps fell behind him.
"You should be sleeping brother." His sister, Eowyn scolded lightly. "It will not do to have the King yawning when presented with his bride."
Eomer turned and looked up at his sister, smiling. "Should you not be resting as well, sister?" He asked lightly. "Will your husband not notice your absence?"
Eowyn nodded, sitting next to her brother. "I told Faramir that I suspect you needed company. Was I not correct brother?" She asked, raising an eyebrow.
Eomer smiled, "You were correct. I can find no rest, although I know I will need it." He sighed, gazing into the fire.
Eowyn nodded, understand. "You anxious dear brother. I doubt your bride is finding any rest tonight either."
"Nor her brother." He said with a grin. "Was I ever as protective as Erchirion is?" Eomer asked his sister.
Eowyn rolled her eyes, "No, you were worse." She teased. "I seem to remember Faramir confessing that he was ill at ease when you two had a lovely talk before our wedding. And I remember you also told me to send word that I was unhappy and you would send the entire strength of Rohan to 'rescue' me."
Eomer laughed lightly. "Well, I was only looking out for you, Eowyn. What are brothers for?" They fell silent a moment as Eomer was lost in thought. Finally he looked at his sister. "You have met Lothiriel now. What do you think of her?"
"I enjoyed her company." Eowyn answered honestly. "In my opinion, she's the only woman I have met who will be able to put up with you." She teased.
Eomer gave his sister a teasing glare. "Yes well, she is something."
His sister smiled fondly at her brother, "You love her dearly, I could tell the moment you arrived with her." She stood, kissing her brother's forehead. "I am pleased you found such happiness, brother. Now, you should go to sleep."
Eomer smiled up at his sister, "Always commanding, aren't we Eowyn?"
She grinned, "I would never presume to tell the King of Rohan how to manage his affairs." She said, innocently.
"Oh yes you would!" Eomer laughed heartily. He stood, "Thank you Eowyn, I needed that." He said.
She grinned, "You may have found a wife Eomer, but I will always be your sister." She kissed him on the forehead again. "Goodnight dear brother. I will see you in the morning." She said, leaving Eomer to wander the Golden Hall, until he finally went to sleep, and had pleasant dreams until the morning.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Elsewhere in the Golden Hall, Lothiriel was also having a restless night. She sat the room she was staying in tonight, reading by the fire, desperately trying to keep all those little worried thoughts from creeping into her mind. Outside she could hear the wind howling. Edoras was so different from Dol Amroth, it seemed younger somehow, but still strong. The Golden Hall at Meduseld seemed to shine in the sun when she arrived, and everywhere ornate horses presented themselves. It was all so new and exciting, and she knew she would be happy here, yet something in her heart wanted to cling to the past.
A soft knock on the door pulled her from her thoughts, and she placed the book on her lap, turning to the door. "Come in." She called, curious to see who would be coming to see her at this hour.
Erchirion entered, closing the door behind him. "Good evening sister." He greeted, "I have come to see that you are resting at ease."
Lothiriel raised an eyebrow, "You come to make sure Eomer is not here, and you know it dearest brother!" She teased with a laugh. "But I am glad for your company, please sit for a time." She invited.
Erchirion smiled, sitting by his sister. "Well, yes I suppose I was. Is there wrong in it?" He asked.
Lothiriel rolled her eyes, "I have a feeling you will be most anxious tomorrow."
"And I have a feeling you will be as well." He pointed out. "Why are you not at rest, sister? Tomorrow promises to be a long day, you should sleep."
Lothiriel sighed, "I cannot put my mind at rest. So much is happening Erchirion, I cannot help but feeling a bit overwhelmed." She sighed, watching the flames dance before her. "But then I see Eomer, and I somehow, I feel..." She trailed off, at loss for words. "I cannot describe it, but I know I will be happy here. Even though I think there will be times when I will miss the waves of Dol Amroth." She looked at her brother. "Does that make sense?"
Erchirion smiled, "Perfectly. Dol Amroth is all you have ever known, and now you are setting out on a new journey." He put an arm around his sister to comfort her. "I know you will be happy here, Lothiriel, although I will miss you terribly." He smiled sadly, "I will admit you have found a good man to replace me."
"Oh Erchirion." She said softly, unshed tears glistening in her eyes. "It feels me with joy to hear you say that. But he will never replace you." She returned her brother's embrace. "Eomer shall be my husband, and I love him dearly. But you will always be my brother, and no man could replace you."
Erchirion smiled, "You have grown up sister, and are a fine woman. Eomer is lucky to have found you." He sighed, "And I feel I owe you an apology. I have been unfair and terribly spoiled throughout your courtship."
"You have only been doing what you have always done, Erchirion. Protect me." She laughed softly, "Although you were a little over zealous at times!"
He laughed, "With a sister like you, no wonder!" He then became serious once more. "I have something for you, a wedding gift I suppose."
Lothiriel raised an eyebrow, curiously. "What is it?"
Erchirion wordlessly handed Lothiriel a small, glass flask. In it was sparkling water with some small stones glistening in the base. "A bit of home to keep with you. For when you miss the sea."
Lothiriel stared wordlessly at her brother for a moment, then smiled, giving him a kiss on the cheek. "Oh Erchirion, I shall treasure it always." She hugged him close, "Thank you!" She said happily.
Erchirion smiled, "Now dear sister, I suggest you rest. It will not do for the bride to have exhausted circles under her eyes." He stood, and then turned to leave. He paused at the door, turning back to his sister, a teasing gleam in his eye. "One more thing."
"What is it brother?" She asked.
"I suggest you take Eomer's advice and stay away from the ale. It will not do to have the Queen of Rohan become ill on her husband during their wedding night." He teased, grinning mischievously. "Although it would teach him a lesson or two."
Lothiriel's mouth dropped in surprise and annoyance. "Erchirion!" She shouted, throwing a near-by pillow at him before running towards him to teach him a lesson.
Laughing, Erchirion ducked the pillow and darted from the room before she had the chance to retaliate.
Smiling to herself Lothiriel chose not to chase her brother, and went to bed. She was glad she had spoken to her brother, and felt much better. Her eyes turned to the flask he had given her, Rohan was now her home, but Dol Amroth would always be thought of fondly in her memories.
* * * * * * * * * * *
A/N- Yeah, so I'm losing my momentum with this story... sigh. So in other words, in my opinion it's not as good anymore.... sigh. Oh well, such is life! It's just sad that it started out so easy to write and flowed so well and then about the time I had them get their freak on I dropped the ball (ooh.... bad choice of words there!). Anyway, sorry about it took me awhile to post this (although it really wasn't that long!)! I went home and while I was planning on posting from there, I was surprised with a NEW car!!! Okay, well not exactly new, it's a '99 Cavalier, but it's new to me! Especially compared to the '86 station wagon I'd been driving! Needless to say I was excited! And I spent the weekend driving around getting the hang of the manual transmission, which is really actually very fun to drive! I also had to go see Two Towers again for inspiration (and to haha drool over Eomer and Legolas, much to the amusement of my friend, who is a guy and does not understand my attraction to fictional characters, but hey, I'm not blind, they're hot!). Anyway, next scene is the wedding scene, and I promise I won't make you wait long... I'm still at a loss on where to end this. I'm thinking one more chapter and then an epilogue... what do you think?
Many thanks to all those awesome people who clicked on that nice little button and reviewed!
Rabid cow- Hehe, I still love your name! Anyway, thanks for the review! Sorry about my interrupting them getting some their. I was just covering my butt. I went to high school with people who freaked out every single time a book in english class mentioned sex and had their parents up at school demanding book burnings. It really got on my nerves! So I had visions of emails reading the follow, and I hope this doesn't offend anyone, because I seem to do that a lot these days when I get going about certain things, anyway, if you're easily offended (which somehow I don't think you are because you didn't want the warning because you're cool and realize that it's just a freakin' story) you may not want to read this, oh wait, haha I'm warning in the middle of my action again! Hehe just making sure! Anyway, emails that would go like this: "How dare you talk about sex before marriage! Blah blah blah! Your story is the reason why the Internet should be banned or only used to spread the good Word and you're going to HELL!!!!! And you've doomed Eomer and Lothiriel to eternal damnation as well!" So needless to say I felt the need to double ensure I was covered! Personally I don't think it was necessary either, I mean, it's not like I rated it G or something! Sigh, but you never know! I mean, people are really stupid about stuff! Also, I actually originally had Lothiriel get pregnant! Hehe! But then I decided that I shouldn't do that for some reason... I forget why but I didn't like the scene I wrote or something so I changed it! Actually I think it was because after she told Eomer for one thing he freaked out a bit (haha as if he didn't KNOW that was were babies came from! Silly Eomer!) and then the brothers beat him up again and I thought it was too repetitious. Also I've been studying fetal development in two different classes, and had to watch a rather graphic tape with a woman giving birth and I think that turned me off from the whole Lothiriel getting pregnant idea (and pregnancy in general! That movie is the best birth control EVER)! And I originally had in that scene where Imrahil talks to Eomer alone that he demanded Eomer marry Lothiriel. But then I thought, wait, he ALREADY wants to marry her! So it'd be like:
Imrahil: YOU HAVE TO MARRY MY DAUGHTER!
Eomer: Okay, sure! Great! When can I marry her?
Imrahil: YOU HAVE DISGRACED HER HONOR AND YOU WILL MARRY HER OR WE WILL DECLARE WAR- oh wait, you do want to marry her! Um.... okay great!
And where's the fun character torture in that? Hehe, my main goal in life is to make them suffer as LONG as possible! It's my main goal in life! Right next to you know, passing my classes and stuff. Haha so obviously I go through several ideas and write out several scenes before I settle on one, but it's nice to see that people are picking up on some of the trains of thoughts I go on! Anyway thanks for the review! Wow, you got the longest response ever! Gold star for you!
MarieMJS: Hehe, in other words Imrahil made them suffer! Go him! Haha, anyway as you can see they made it! Yay! I'm glad you got your work done! I'm stuck in the snow here so my classes have been canceled! Haha a lot of people are stranded in various places. Works for me though! I don't have class! Yay! Thanks for the review :-)
Everlong: Oh trust me, you'll get a wedding! Hehe! Although I hope the way I wrote it is okay! I can honestly say I have no idea what a Rohirrim wedding would be like! So I improvised! I hope it's okay! Also, you need to update your story! I updated mine! It's only fair :-) Hehe! You can't leave me hanging like that! It's not nice!
Kezya: Yeah, it's sweeter than I usually write (haha of course my only other story I have posted is another romance, but those are the only two I've written out of all the junk I have on my computer!) I swear it's the dorm! It's made me soft! Anyway, thanks for the review and the kind words :- ) Sorry I took so long to update! But I had a nice car to drive! Yay car!!! Hehe, sorry, still excited about my car!
Shel Bel1983: Wow, your review was very complimentary! Hehe, I was positively blushing when I read that! Thank you! Hehe, I always have this fear of making these characters too modern and not true to their original characterization you know? I'm not other very poetic and normally sound rather hickish when I talk, so making them sound all formal and old fashioned or whatever was not easy! And I still don't think they sound quite right! Anyway, thanks so much for the encouragement! You rock!
Isa: I agree, I year is way too long without Eomer! Luckily, I didn't make you wait a year until I updated! Haha! Only a week or so! Hope you enjoyed!
Now comes the part where I beg for reviews!
Hm..... I wonder if I have any emails? Aw... nope! Well now I'm depressed and I'm going to eat lots of chocolate and stay up all night due to sugar and fail all my classes! Why did this happen you ask? Because no one reviewed! So to save my life, I suggest you review! Go on! It's painless I assure you! I've reviewed people's work before! And I promise I won't bite! I swear on the head of Eomer! If I'm lying I'll send him to you for your personal slave!
Eomer (in background): Hey!
Or better yet, if you review I'll send him to you to be your slave for a day!
Eomer: Do I not have a say in this? Me: Nope! Now go finish your veggies! Eomer: Awwww..... (pouts)
Hehe! So review! And you'll get Eomer! I'll send him in the mail!
One Year Later
"Well, this is it." Imrahil said, looking over at his daughter from his mount. "Rohan." The vast green fields swept into hills after the group's passage through the White Mountains. The grass swayed, leaving a sweet scent upon the air.
Erchirion sighed, glancing unhappily at his sister, "A wild country sister, would it not be better to turn back now?"
Lothiriel gave her brother an amused look, "You say that every mile of the journey!" She accused with a smile. "And besides." She looked out over the rolling hills, covered in grass, swaying in the breeze. "I think it is wonderful." She then urged her horse forward, followed by her Father who gave Erchirion a scolding look.
Erchirion rolled his eyes, and followed suit. "You better like it, Lothiriel!" He called to his sister, hurrying to catch up. Lothiriel had been riding almost everyday for the past year, and had taken to it well. "But remember, just say the word and-"
"And you'll come as fast as you can to escort me back to Dol Amroth." Lothiriel rolled her eyes. "And so you have told me everyday since we set out! Really, Erchirion! I am beginning to think I should have brought Elphir or Amrothos instead!"
Lothiriel's escort was composed of her Father, Erchirion, and a handle of Knights. Her other brothers were needed to run the city. It had been a difficult goodbye to be sure. The hardest part was explaining to her dear nephew that she was going away. The little boy had cried terribly when she left. She had promised to send messengers often, and to visit. Elphir and Amrothos were both trying to put a strong face on, but she could tell they would miss her terribly, and she them. Then she thought of her new life with Eomer and felt a bit better. She shifted excitedly in her saddle at the thought of seeing him again. Lothiriel then looked at Erchirion and gave him a smile. She had chosen Erchirion to ride to Edoras with her because he was always her closest brother, and she doubted he would stay behind even if she had asked it.
"Please cheer up brother." She asked. "I hate to spend these hours with you when you are behaving like a child."
Erchirion sighed, watching his sister. Soon he would lose her for they were fast approaching Edoras. A smile crept across his face, but not yet. "A child am I?" He asked. "Well then, I suppose you'll have to catch me!" He urged his horse into a run, bolting ahead of Lothiriel.
"Oh you are such a child!" She laughed, pushing her own horse to catch up with him. Lothiriel soon passed her brother, using her lighter weight to her advantage and outlasting him by a long shot. Her eyes sparkled as they raced across the fields
Imrahil watched his children with a smile, he then turned to one of his close advisors, "And she is getting married?" He joked, watching as she passed her brother, laughing at him as her hair flew wildly behind her.
Lothiriel then slowed to a stop, realizing she was far ahead of the rest of the group. "That will show him." She said, giving her horse an appreciative pat and dismounted to stretch her legs a bit, her horse took this opportunity to munch on the tall grass that grew in the field.
Erchirion soon caught up to his sister, a grin on his face. "Well dear sister, you already ride like a Rohirrim." He teased, dismounting as well.
Lothiriel grinned, "Good. Although it would not take a person from Rohan to beat you, dearest brother."
Erchirion made a face and was about to comment back when something in the distance caught his eye. Lothiriel noticed too, and watched as a group of Riders approached, the green banner of Rohan flew in the wind, making the white horse seem to dance in the sunlight.
Erchirion turned to his sister, "Your new husband approaches, sister."
She grinned, her eyes shinning as they drew near. She could see Eomer riding at the front and resisted the urge to ride towards them. Instead, she waited, quickly running a hand through her hair and bringing some order to her riding dress.
Erchirion rolled his eyes, "You look fine sister."
Lothiriel glared at him, "You are my brother, you are supposed to say that!"
Erchirion grinned, but did not reply. The Riders finally reached them and came to a stop in front of them.
Eomer smiled broadly at the sight of Lothiriel and Erchirion. "Hail Lothiriel and Erchirion of Dol Amroth, welcome to Rohan." He said simply.
Erchirion nodded, he was under orders from his father to be polite, his father had threatened that if Erchirion misbehaved he would be sent back home. Erchirion agreed to behave, but only if Eomer did as well, causing Lothiriel to get rather annoyed at her brother and spent a day not speaking to him rather childishly.
Eomer dismounted and quickly crossed the distance between himself and Lothiriel. "How fares my Lady?" He asked softly, his eyes locking with hers.
Lothiriel took a deep breath, "My heart flies with joy at seeing you, my Lord." She managed to say before throwing her arms around him in an embrace.
Eomer smiled, holding her a moment, then stepped back, kissing her hand. "The year has been good to you my Lady."
"And to you, Eomer King, though the days were far too long." She replied.
Erchirion watched the exchange, and could not help but smile. His sister really did seem happy to see the young King.
Imrahil and the rest of the escort soon came riding over the hill. Imrahil smiled and dismounted to greet his son-in-law with a clasp on the back. "Hail to the King of the Mark." He greeted.
Eomer smiled, greeting the Prince warmly. "And to the Prince of Dol Amroth. I thank you for escorting the finest treasure of your city to my lands."
Erchirion laughed, "That treasure would not have otherwise." He commented.
Lothiriel gave her brother an appreciative smile, for she was glad he was being agreeable, and not chasing Eomer through Rohan.
Imrahil smiled as well, "Yes, she can be awfully stubborn, I do hope you know what you are getting into, Eomer."
Eomer laughed, "Yes, well, I look forward to the challenge."
Lothiriel rolled her eyes, "I suggest you both take a look at what I grew up with!"
The three men laughed, and Eomer stepped forward, kissing her hand again. "Forgive me, my Lady." He said with a grin. He then turned to the rest of the group. "Now, Edoras awaits your arrival with great anticipation. Come!"
Eomer rode with Lothiriel, Erchirion, and Imrahil at the front of the escort. He told them of the guests that had come for their wedding. His sister, Eowyn, had arrived two days ago with her husband and Lothiriel's cousin, Faramir. King Elessar had even come with his wife, Arwen. It would be quite the ceremony tomorrow. He teased Lothiriel, requesting that she stay away from the ale. Erchirion laughed at this, commenting that it would liven things up a bit, causing Lothiriel to give her brother and appreciative smack on the head.
When they came into view of Edoras Eomer turned to Lothiriel as they paused a moment, looing at the city on the hill, before the glistening White Mountains.
"It is not as grand as the city of Dol Amroth." He said softly.
Lothiriel looked at him and then at the city, set against the sparkling clean mountains. "It is wonderful Eomer. It is home." She said softly with a smile, holding out a hand to him
He turned to her, and took her hand, a smile spreading across his lips. "And it waits the arrival of its future Queen."
* * * * * * * * * * *
It was the night before the wedding, and it seemed no one could rest. Eomer paced the now empty Hall at Meduseld, watching the flames in the fireplace slowly die to glowing embers. He knew he should rest, he knew tomorrow was a big day, but Eomer could find no rest. He considered the embers a moment, sitting in a chair before the fire, deep in thought, when light footsteps fell behind him.
"You should be sleeping brother." His sister, Eowyn scolded lightly. "It will not do to have the King yawning when presented with his bride."
Eomer turned and looked up at his sister, smiling. "Should you not be resting as well, sister?" He asked lightly. "Will your husband not notice your absence?"
Eowyn nodded, sitting next to her brother. "I told Faramir that I suspect you needed company. Was I not correct brother?" She asked, raising an eyebrow.
Eomer smiled, "You were correct. I can find no rest, although I know I will need it." He sighed, gazing into the fire.
Eowyn nodded, understand. "You anxious dear brother. I doubt your bride is finding any rest tonight either."
"Nor her brother." He said with a grin. "Was I ever as protective as Erchirion is?" Eomer asked his sister.
Eowyn rolled her eyes, "No, you were worse." She teased. "I seem to remember Faramir confessing that he was ill at ease when you two had a lovely talk before our wedding. And I remember you also told me to send word that I was unhappy and you would send the entire strength of Rohan to 'rescue' me."
Eomer laughed lightly. "Well, I was only looking out for you, Eowyn. What are brothers for?" They fell silent a moment as Eomer was lost in thought. Finally he looked at his sister. "You have met Lothiriel now. What do you think of her?"
"I enjoyed her company." Eowyn answered honestly. "In my opinion, she's the only woman I have met who will be able to put up with you." She teased.
Eomer gave his sister a teasing glare. "Yes well, she is something."
His sister smiled fondly at her brother, "You love her dearly, I could tell the moment you arrived with her." She stood, kissing her brother's forehead. "I am pleased you found such happiness, brother. Now, you should go to sleep."
Eomer smiled up at his sister, "Always commanding, aren't we Eowyn?"
She grinned, "I would never presume to tell the King of Rohan how to manage his affairs." She said, innocently.
"Oh yes you would!" Eomer laughed heartily. He stood, "Thank you Eowyn, I needed that." He said.
She grinned, "You may have found a wife Eomer, but I will always be your sister." She kissed him on the forehead again. "Goodnight dear brother. I will see you in the morning." She said, leaving Eomer to wander the Golden Hall, until he finally went to sleep, and had pleasant dreams until the morning.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Elsewhere in the Golden Hall, Lothiriel was also having a restless night. She sat the room she was staying in tonight, reading by the fire, desperately trying to keep all those little worried thoughts from creeping into her mind. Outside she could hear the wind howling. Edoras was so different from Dol Amroth, it seemed younger somehow, but still strong. The Golden Hall at Meduseld seemed to shine in the sun when she arrived, and everywhere ornate horses presented themselves. It was all so new and exciting, and she knew she would be happy here, yet something in her heart wanted to cling to the past.
A soft knock on the door pulled her from her thoughts, and she placed the book on her lap, turning to the door. "Come in." She called, curious to see who would be coming to see her at this hour.
Erchirion entered, closing the door behind him. "Good evening sister." He greeted, "I have come to see that you are resting at ease."
Lothiriel raised an eyebrow, "You come to make sure Eomer is not here, and you know it dearest brother!" She teased with a laugh. "But I am glad for your company, please sit for a time." She invited.
Erchirion smiled, sitting by his sister. "Well, yes I suppose I was. Is there wrong in it?" He asked.
Lothiriel rolled her eyes, "I have a feeling you will be most anxious tomorrow."
"And I have a feeling you will be as well." He pointed out. "Why are you not at rest, sister? Tomorrow promises to be a long day, you should sleep."
Lothiriel sighed, "I cannot put my mind at rest. So much is happening Erchirion, I cannot help but feeling a bit overwhelmed." She sighed, watching the flames dance before her. "But then I see Eomer, and I somehow, I feel..." She trailed off, at loss for words. "I cannot describe it, but I know I will be happy here. Even though I think there will be times when I will miss the waves of Dol Amroth." She looked at her brother. "Does that make sense?"
Erchirion smiled, "Perfectly. Dol Amroth is all you have ever known, and now you are setting out on a new journey." He put an arm around his sister to comfort her. "I know you will be happy here, Lothiriel, although I will miss you terribly." He smiled sadly, "I will admit you have found a good man to replace me."
"Oh Erchirion." She said softly, unshed tears glistening in her eyes. "It feels me with joy to hear you say that. But he will never replace you." She returned her brother's embrace. "Eomer shall be my husband, and I love him dearly. But you will always be my brother, and no man could replace you."
Erchirion smiled, "You have grown up sister, and are a fine woman. Eomer is lucky to have found you." He sighed, "And I feel I owe you an apology. I have been unfair and terribly spoiled throughout your courtship."
"You have only been doing what you have always done, Erchirion. Protect me." She laughed softly, "Although you were a little over zealous at times!"
He laughed, "With a sister like you, no wonder!" He then became serious once more. "I have something for you, a wedding gift I suppose."
Lothiriel raised an eyebrow, curiously. "What is it?"
Erchirion wordlessly handed Lothiriel a small, glass flask. In it was sparkling water with some small stones glistening in the base. "A bit of home to keep with you. For when you miss the sea."
Lothiriel stared wordlessly at her brother for a moment, then smiled, giving him a kiss on the cheek. "Oh Erchirion, I shall treasure it always." She hugged him close, "Thank you!" She said happily.
Erchirion smiled, "Now dear sister, I suggest you rest. It will not do for the bride to have exhausted circles under her eyes." He stood, and then turned to leave. He paused at the door, turning back to his sister, a teasing gleam in his eye. "One more thing."
"What is it brother?" She asked.
"I suggest you take Eomer's advice and stay away from the ale. It will not do to have the Queen of Rohan become ill on her husband during their wedding night." He teased, grinning mischievously. "Although it would teach him a lesson or two."
Lothiriel's mouth dropped in surprise and annoyance. "Erchirion!" She shouted, throwing a near-by pillow at him before running towards him to teach him a lesson.
Laughing, Erchirion ducked the pillow and darted from the room before she had the chance to retaliate.
Smiling to herself Lothiriel chose not to chase her brother, and went to bed. She was glad she had spoken to her brother, and felt much better. Her eyes turned to the flask he had given her, Rohan was now her home, but Dol Amroth would always be thought of fondly in her memories.
* * * * * * * * * * *
A/N- Yeah, so I'm losing my momentum with this story... sigh. So in other words, in my opinion it's not as good anymore.... sigh. Oh well, such is life! It's just sad that it started out so easy to write and flowed so well and then about the time I had them get their freak on I dropped the ball (ooh.... bad choice of words there!). Anyway, sorry about it took me awhile to post this (although it really wasn't that long!)! I went home and while I was planning on posting from there, I was surprised with a NEW car!!! Okay, well not exactly new, it's a '99 Cavalier, but it's new to me! Especially compared to the '86 station wagon I'd been driving! Needless to say I was excited! And I spent the weekend driving around getting the hang of the manual transmission, which is really actually very fun to drive! I also had to go see Two Towers again for inspiration (and to haha drool over Eomer and Legolas, much to the amusement of my friend, who is a guy and does not understand my attraction to fictional characters, but hey, I'm not blind, they're hot!). Anyway, next scene is the wedding scene, and I promise I won't make you wait long... I'm still at a loss on where to end this. I'm thinking one more chapter and then an epilogue... what do you think?
Many thanks to all those awesome people who clicked on that nice little button and reviewed!
Rabid cow- Hehe, I still love your name! Anyway, thanks for the review! Sorry about my interrupting them getting some their. I was just covering my butt. I went to high school with people who freaked out every single time a book in english class mentioned sex and had their parents up at school demanding book burnings. It really got on my nerves! So I had visions of emails reading the follow, and I hope this doesn't offend anyone, because I seem to do that a lot these days when I get going about certain things, anyway, if you're easily offended (which somehow I don't think you are because you didn't want the warning because you're cool and realize that it's just a freakin' story) you may not want to read this, oh wait, haha I'm warning in the middle of my action again! Hehe just making sure! Anyway, emails that would go like this: "How dare you talk about sex before marriage! Blah blah blah! Your story is the reason why the Internet should be banned or only used to spread the good Word and you're going to HELL!!!!! And you've doomed Eomer and Lothiriel to eternal damnation as well!" So needless to say I felt the need to double ensure I was covered! Personally I don't think it was necessary either, I mean, it's not like I rated it G or something! Sigh, but you never know! I mean, people are really stupid about stuff! Also, I actually originally had Lothiriel get pregnant! Hehe! But then I decided that I shouldn't do that for some reason... I forget why but I didn't like the scene I wrote or something so I changed it! Actually I think it was because after she told Eomer for one thing he freaked out a bit (haha as if he didn't KNOW that was were babies came from! Silly Eomer!) and then the brothers beat him up again and I thought it was too repetitious. Also I've been studying fetal development in two different classes, and had to watch a rather graphic tape with a woman giving birth and I think that turned me off from the whole Lothiriel getting pregnant idea (and pregnancy in general! That movie is the best birth control EVER)! And I originally had in that scene where Imrahil talks to Eomer alone that he demanded Eomer marry Lothiriel. But then I thought, wait, he ALREADY wants to marry her! So it'd be like:
Imrahil: YOU HAVE TO MARRY MY DAUGHTER!
Eomer: Okay, sure! Great! When can I marry her?
Imrahil: YOU HAVE DISGRACED HER HONOR AND YOU WILL MARRY HER OR WE WILL DECLARE WAR- oh wait, you do want to marry her! Um.... okay great!
And where's the fun character torture in that? Hehe, my main goal in life is to make them suffer as LONG as possible! It's my main goal in life! Right next to you know, passing my classes and stuff. Haha so obviously I go through several ideas and write out several scenes before I settle on one, but it's nice to see that people are picking up on some of the trains of thoughts I go on! Anyway thanks for the review! Wow, you got the longest response ever! Gold star for you!
MarieMJS: Hehe, in other words Imrahil made them suffer! Go him! Haha, anyway as you can see they made it! Yay! I'm glad you got your work done! I'm stuck in the snow here so my classes have been canceled! Haha a lot of people are stranded in various places. Works for me though! I don't have class! Yay! Thanks for the review :-)
Everlong: Oh trust me, you'll get a wedding! Hehe! Although I hope the way I wrote it is okay! I can honestly say I have no idea what a Rohirrim wedding would be like! So I improvised! I hope it's okay! Also, you need to update your story! I updated mine! It's only fair :-) Hehe! You can't leave me hanging like that! It's not nice!
Kezya: Yeah, it's sweeter than I usually write (haha of course my only other story I have posted is another romance, but those are the only two I've written out of all the junk I have on my computer!) I swear it's the dorm! It's made me soft! Anyway, thanks for the review and the kind words :- ) Sorry I took so long to update! But I had a nice car to drive! Yay car!!! Hehe, sorry, still excited about my car!
Shel Bel1983: Wow, your review was very complimentary! Hehe, I was positively blushing when I read that! Thank you! Hehe, I always have this fear of making these characters too modern and not true to their original characterization you know? I'm not other very poetic and normally sound rather hickish when I talk, so making them sound all formal and old fashioned or whatever was not easy! And I still don't think they sound quite right! Anyway, thanks so much for the encouragement! You rock!
Isa: I agree, I year is way too long without Eomer! Luckily, I didn't make you wait a year until I updated! Haha! Only a week or so! Hope you enjoyed!
Now comes the part where I beg for reviews!
Hm..... I wonder if I have any emails? Aw... nope! Well now I'm depressed and I'm going to eat lots of chocolate and stay up all night due to sugar and fail all my classes! Why did this happen you ask? Because no one reviewed! So to save my life, I suggest you review! Go on! It's painless I assure you! I've reviewed people's work before! And I promise I won't bite! I swear on the head of Eomer! If I'm lying I'll send him to you for your personal slave!
Eomer (in background): Hey!
Or better yet, if you review I'll send him to you to be your slave for a day!
Eomer: Do I not have a say in this? Me: Nope! Now go finish your veggies! Eomer: Awwww..... (pouts)
Hehe! So review! And you'll get Eomer! I'll send him in the mail!