(Part Three)

Grima sneered to himself. She was so defiant. He'd always admired that, how she could stand up for herself no matter what the obstacle that lay before her. He shivered as he thought about her. How could he break such a spirit?

There was a messenger outside the gates. Grima went to him, found that it was another gift from Saruman. Something seemed strange about the gifts he'd been receiving, but Grima put that into the back of his mind. For before him stood two rows of peasants.

"Slaves," the messenger explained, "For you and the lady." Grima thanked him heartily, filling the young man's pockets with gold coins. He then moved on to inspect the people. Most were weary from travel on foot. Some were young, good strong workers. Others were older, more suitable for the cookery and the cleaning. And then there were three pretty maids, perfect gifts for Eowyn. One of the maids was dark, her skin reminding him of the southern armies he'd witnessed marching into Isengard. Dark and smooth.

He brought them further into the kingdom, instructing them on where to go, what their jobs would be, and so on. Most seemed to be familiar with their duties, and went right to work. A few made their way to the stables, tended the horses. Some found the kitchen, began to cook the meals. But none of them made a sound. It was almost as if. . . as if a powerful spell had come upon them. The work of Saruman again, no doubt. Grima smiled very rarely, but at that moment, a smile graced his thin lips. He turned to the three maids. They stood, unsure of what to do. Obviously, they were a special gift. He brought them into the palace, anticipated them to be charmed by the gold and jewels. But the girls took no notice of these things.

When they were cleaned and dressed into new garments, Grima gently rapped upon the door to the chamber. There was no sound from within, so he unlocked the door and entered. Pushing the three girls inside, he closed the door behind them.

"My lady," he spoke delicately, "I have brought you. . . a present." She opened her eyes, turned from the mirror, and gasped. The girls bowed lightly, each offering her a name. Simple names; Fara, Elise, and Alia. Eowyn bowed in return, and accepted them with a nod.

"I will be expecting you for the meal to be held this evening. The girls will tend to your wounds, and I would be honored if you would appreciate them and this. Please," Grima held out a stunning Elfish dress. It was a rich burgundy, studded with fine diamonds. The bodice was laced with silver cord. Eowyn blushed, for she had never before lain eyes upon such a frivolous gown. Her dresses had always been simple. Grima smiled once more, and placed the dress into the hands of Elise, the dark-skinned girl. He departed before Eowyn had a chance to defy him. Perhaps his gifts had worked after all.