Disclaimer: I do not own or claim to own any of the characters, settings, or events I have taken from Tolkien's works.


Up the stairs they walked toward the great golden hall. At the door sat a guard, tall and attentive. He rose to greet Erin.

Welcome, traveler. I am Háma, doorwarden of the king. Before you may go in, you must leave any weapons you have at the door. Remembering her pocket knife, Erin lifted the strap of her bag over her head and handed it to Háma, who set it against the wall.

Better safe than sorry. That'd be the last thing I need, to be imprisoned for carrying a weapon illegally. Háma opened the door, and Erin stepping into the shadowed hall, following close behind the guard. Wow. These tapestries are amazing.


As she gazed around in awe, Erin suddenly noticed the raised throne at the end of the hall. On it sat a stooped old man, still majestic even in his crippling old age. Erin came to a halt abruptly as she realized the guard had stopped and was looking at her.

Oh gosh. Am I supposed to bow now or something? I never expected to meet royalty. I mean, it's not like they're a big thing in the States. Erring on the side of caution, Erin bowed. The king spoke.

Why do you bring this traveler to me? And where is Grima? Grima? Erin thought. Boy, I'd hate to be stuck with that name.

Grima, my lord, is currently out of the city. The guard spoke respectfully. The traveler was found by a rider on the edges of Fangorn forest, and since the riders were told to bring in all who do not have permission from you... The king cut him off, peering at Erin with clear eyes.

This traveler is but a young maiden! Give her to my sister-daughter Lady Eowyn, and she will take care of her. I have enough to worry about without the girl right now. This is getting more interesting by the minute, Erin thought wryly. What on earth is a sister-daughter?

Yes my lord. I will find Lady Eowyn immediately. A gentle voice called out, There is no need to look for me. I am here.

A slim form stepped forward from the shadows behind the throne. Lady Eowyn smiled at Erin. I will take care of the maiden, she said. The guard nodded and turned to leave. After the door shut behind him, King Theoden spoke again.

Do as you see fit, Eowyn. To Erin he said, I see you are afraid and uncertain, young traveler. You need not be. No one will harm you here. You may go with Lady Eowyn now.

Beginning to breathe again, and still surprised at the king's kind words, Erin managed a soft, Thank you, sire, before following Lady Eowyn out of the hall and into the welcoming sunshine.


Erin followed Lady Eowyn down a street and into a large room. Lady Eowyn sat down, and motioned for Erin to do the same. Erin chose a small wooden stool and sat, expectantly awaiting Lady Eowyn's words.

So, young traveler,' as I have heard you called, what is your name?

My name is Erin.

And why are you in Rohan? Erin thought carefully, then opted for the truth.

I really don't know. I'm pretty lost.

I see. Is there somewhere you can go from here?

Not that I know of, Erin said, then added as an afterthought, my lady.

The lady sat silent for a moment. How old are you, Erin?

Lady Eowyn smiled slightly, then spoke slowly as if she were still deciding what to say. Well Erin, as it would seem that you have nowhere to go, you are welcome to stay in Edoras as long as you need to.

Erin breathed a sigh of relief. At least I know now that I don't have to wander around more. But what choices do I have here, when I still don't really know where this Rohan' is? Um, my lady? I don't mean to sound ungrateful, but where can I go in the city? I don't have anywhere to stay.

Lady Eowyn's brow furrowed. In the pause, Erin mentally kicked herself. Talk about being a pushy guest. They've been really generous as it is, and you want more. Just as Erin drew a breath to begin an apology, Lady Eowyn spoke quietly.

I have need of someone to assist me in various ways. If are willing to take a pledge of loyalty and service to Rohan and myself, then you may stay in my household and serve me.


` Erin's heart began to pound in her ears. That would be like admitting that I have almost no chance of ever getting home. But in reality, not admitting it wouldn't change the fact that it's true. I guess I should start considering this my home.

I will my lady. Erin was surprised at how confident the words sounded.

You understand that by taking such an oath you are binding your fate to Rohan and myself? Erin spoke again, more softly.

I do.

And you are willing? Erin spoke this time close to a whisper.

I am. A gentle smile spread across Eowyn's face.

Then consider yourself bound to the oath. She paused. I was hoping you would accept. I have taken a liking to you, Erin-traveler. In a brisker tone she continued.

And the first task I would have you do is follow me to your new lodgings so we can get you some decent clothing in exchange for those odd garments you are wearing. Erin nodded with grin.

Yes, my lady. The lady spoke over her shoulder.

And another thing. At least when no one else is around, you may call me Eowyn. The Lady' title is not necessary except around other people. Erin grinned even wider, and fell into step with Eowyn.