Notes: I am SO SORRY this took so long. I swear I didn't mean for it to, but I got so caught up in running my new Legolas/Éowyn fan shrine, that I didn't have any time to write! I promise, however, that more chapters are coming soon! The edited version of this chapter should be up soon, but read this for now :) Oh, and don't kill me.

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Plus, major props to my beta, Dianne. She's awesome!!

~Halle

Chapter 15

Later that eve, Éowyn returned to her room in the Houses of Healing, exhausted yet elated. Legolas had told her all about his adventures near the Black Gate: everything from the attacks of the Nazgul to the crumbling of Mount Doom. She had listened to his tale with eager ears, for it was not often that Éowyn heard the tales of Elves. Legolas' beautiful storytelling had captured her, and placed her beside him in his story, experiencing everything as he had.

The night was cool and comfortable. Éowyn quickly slipped out of her woolen dress, and put on a comfortable cloth night shift. She wound her blonde hair into a long plait, tucking it away from her face. Feeling exhausted yet unnaturally awake, Éowyn searched her room for something to occupy her mind. Legolas had been called to a council with Lord Aragorn (who had returned later that day). She had not been summoned, and therefore left alone for the evening.

Éowyn's gaze fell on the monstrous window that faced the East. She was on the third floor of the House of Healing, and had a delightful balcony outside her window. However, most of her time before Legolas had returned had been spent in the company of Lord Faramir in the gardens, and she had not yet been on the balcony. It was time that she saw what was out on it.

As she threw open the window and climbed not so gracefully outside, Éowyn's thoughts turned back to Lord Faramir. He was an interesting man, quite kind to her, and, from what she had seen, good to the rest of his people as well. His proposal of marriage had shocked her, quite simply. Éowyn was not used to be fawned over by men. In Rohan, her breed of Shield Maiden was not found often anymore. Though her skill and expertise were respected, many feared her interests, and therefore avoided her. To find a man not intimidated by her love of war and fighting was quite rare.

A cool gust of wind touched Éowyn's cheeks as she clamored outside. It was a bit cold, and Éowyn found herself wrapping her arms around her thin body. But despite the temperature discomfort, Éowyn found the scene before her immensely beautiful. The darkening night was contrasted by the twinkling of candles in the windows of the people of Ithilien. The city was enchanting, and Éowyn found herself falling more and more in love with it. She could be happy here, she realized, in such a place where modern ideas were accepted and welcomed.

Thoughts of Ithilien reminded Éowyn of how uncertain her future was, even though the Ring had been destroyed. She had never given much thought to life after the War. She certainly had not expected it to end in so short a time. But now that it was gone, Éowyn felt as though she had no real purpose to serve anymore. Her brother had assumed the role of King, and she could help him for the time being. But sooner or later Éomer would take a wife, and her influence on him would fail. Éowyn would be left alone, the forgotten sister of the splendid King. She would have to settle for a quiet life, one of sewing and service.

Such a path was not for her, yet Éowyn could not think of another way that she could spend her life. Of course, she would love to marry Legolas, or become bonded to him, whatever was the Elven custom. Her heart sped up at the thought, and Éowyn knew that such a being as Legolas would never bind her to a lifetime of servitude. But she also knew, in her heart of hearts, that the elves were leaving the shores of Middle Earth. Sooner or later, Legolas had to follow them, Éowyn knew this. But she did not want to accept it as true. Everything was so muddled.

"Excuse me? My Lady Éowyn?"

Éowyn whirled around, clutching her arms closer around her. She breathed in deeply when she saw Faramir standing uncertainly before her. "My lord… you frightened me."

"Pardon my intrusion, milady. I heard noises out on the balcony, and came out to investigate." Faramir stood before her, half clad in a cream colored tunic. He had obviously been undressing for bed when he had heard the noises outside and come to see what was causing the racket. With his wild hair and half-on clothes, Faramir did not look the least bit imposing. In fact, he looked rather young and vulnerable.

The thought of a Steward rushing out of his window in fear of a young Shield Maiden struck Éowyn as incredibly funny. She burst out laughing, clutching at her stomach as the fit seized her. Faramir stood aside, utterly bewildered and unsure as to what he should do. Éowyn saw the look on his face, and only began to laugh harder.

Several moments passed where the only sound heard in the quiet night was the lilting laughter of the Lady Éowyn. When she finally gained control of her giggles, Faramir spoke up. "I have seen many things in my lifetime, milady, but never a Shield Maiden who could not control her laughter."

"My apologies, my lord," Éowyn gasped out, as she regained her breath. "I do not usually lose control like that. It was just the image of you… You looked so bewildered!"

Faramir cracked a small smile. Éowyn clapped her hands. "Now that is better, my lord! You see, laughter has healing power. It is good for the soul. You must laugh sometimes, it will make you feel so much better!"

"Your passion about laughing amuses me, milady. I have never met a creature quite like you before." Something about his words made Éowyn blush despite the cool breeze. "You are alternately wonderful and terrible, both delicate and powerful."

Éowyn cleared her throat. "You honor me with your praises, my lord, but I fear that no good will come of them. I have made up my mind, sir, I will not marry you."

"I did not expect that you would. A creature such as myself rarely gains what he desires."

His tone was heartbreaking. Éowyn smiled sadly. "We cannot always get what we want… Do not think that you are alone in your pain. Though it may not seem true, I experience some of the anguish that you do as well."

There was a sound from behind them. Both figures whirled around. Standing in Éowyn's window was a guard clad in the colors of Rohan. "My Lady Éowyn of Rohan!" called the man. "Your presence is requested in the chambers of Éomer King. He has recently returned to Ithilien, and wishes to hold conference with his most beloved sister."

Éomer! Éowyn's heart leapt at the thought of seeing her beloved brother again. "Tell my Lord that I shall be along very soon. I must change into a more appropriate gown, and then I will join the King." The guard nodded, bowed, and then departed. Éowyn turned back to where Faramir stood, his hands uncomfortably behind his back.

"I shall not marry you, my Lord, but I would like to speak with you again? May I seek you out at a later time?"

Faramir's eyes danced. "Of course, milady. I eagerly anticipate your visit." He bowed low, and then walked down the terrace to his window, which was a little farther than Éowyn's.

Something stirred deep inside Éowyn as she watched him leave. It was not love, and it was not even attraction. It was nothing like she felt when she was with Legolas. Instead, Éowyn felt as if she had found a kindred soul amidst all the differences in her world. It was something of the deepest form of friendship.

Puzzling over this matter, Éowyn climbed back to her room, and prepared to go meet her brother.

--

Éowyn quickly approached Éomer's side. She moved to embrace him, but was stopped by the cold host of guards standing with their swords at ready. Cautiously, Éowyn dropped to one knee, bowing her head. Her brother was the King now, and despite their kinship, she could clearly see that some form of protocol was required in his presence.

"Rise, dearest sister," came Éomer's voice. Éowyn rose respectively, keeping her eyes on the ground, as her long deceased mother had taught her many years ago. "I have requested your presence here on this magnificent day to discuss with you the well-being of our beloved land." He motioned to his host of guards. "You may depart, my loyal friends," said Éomer fondly. They all bowed warily, and left the room.

Éowyn finally dared to look up. Her dear brother had changed. His face, usually so filled with the dirt and grime of his beloved Middle Earth, was clean and glowing. His hair was combed and tamed, so unlike the wild mass of blonde tangles it usually was. He had a new chain of mail, which sparkled in the dim light of the room. Éowyn could see that the position of King was suiting her brother well.

Éomer looked towards the door, where the last of his guards were disappearing. He put a finger to his lips, indicating silence. Éowyn raised her eyebrows, but obliged with her brother's final request. Several long, silent moments past, before Éomer let out a long sigh.

"My dear Éowyn!" he cried, rushing forward suddenly and sweeping Éowyn off her feet in a huge embrace. She cried out in surprise at this sudden display of affection. Éomer put her down a bit sheepishly. "My apologies, sister. These cursed guards expect me to be most kingly at all times. I'm afraid that I simply cannot manage that always! I needed to get rid of them, so we could speak in peace!"

Éowyn laughed heartily. "I was wondering where they had hidden my brother!" Éomer joined her laughter. Any outside observer would have seen two beings drawn of the same mold there, laughing together. Their appearance was alike; golden hair streamed from both of their heads, and they were very fair of face. But one could see the same wild spirit in the gleam of their eyes, and that was more alike than any appearance could possibly be.

Putting an arm around Éowyn's shoulders, Éomer steered his sister towards the magnificent chairs set up in the far corner of the room. "Come, sister! We have much to speak of!"

The pair sat down in the chairs. Éomer sighed contentedly, looking Éowyn over shrewdly. She felt self-conscious under her brother's menacing stare. She did not know what he would think of her now, in a new gown. Éowyn had always hoped for his approval, and she did not want to disappoint him. An uncomfortable silence followed for a few moments after that.

"You look beautiful, my sister," Éomer said softly, under his breath. "I would like to see any man turn down your hand in marriage!"

A cold wave of fear passed over Éowyn. She recognized Éomer's tone. He wanted something from her. "What do you mean, dear brother? Certainly there are more fair maidens in this world than I."

"There are not many that can claim that, Éowyn." Éomer reached out and took her hand in his. "What I will tell you now must not leave this room. You must swear your complete secrecy, sister of mine."

Éowyn bit her lip, and stared back into Éomer's eyes. "I will not tell another soul what you plan to tell me now, Éomer. You have my word."

"Good." He released her hand. "Éowyn, Rohan is not the prosperous land that you and I believed it was. Our people have suffered much damage at the hand of the Dark Lord, and we do not have the funds to rebuild their homes and their crops. Much of the material needed for the restoration of homes was destroyed as well. We have hundreds of families storming Edoras, demanding a place to live, and food to eat. We simply do not have resources to help them all. It is impossible."

"I will do what I can, brother, you have my promise. But I do not understand why you are telling me this. There is nothing I can do to completely save our people. I am not magical."

Éomer sighed. "Do not be naïve, Éowyn. We are alike in thinking, in appearance, and in belief. Our spirits are the same. But there is one thing that separates us, Éowyn. You are a woman, and a beautiful one at that. I need you to help negotiate a treaty with another land."

"Éomer, my negotiation skills are no better than yours…"

"You know what mean! Do not insult your intelligence Éowyn, you have a sharp mind!" Éomer took a deep breath, and calmed himself. "Éowyn… I need you to marry someone from Gondor. Someone high placed, with influence. We need the money, sister, we need the supplies! An alliance with Gondor will help save our people!"

Éowyn felt the anger rise from her stomach, up to her throat. She swallowed, hard. "Éomer, dearest brother," she spat, "You know that I can never agree to that plan! I will not marry anything other than love! You cannot force me into something so unhappy!"

"You can have the man of your choosing, sister! I do not ask for much, and it breaks my heart to ask this of you, for I do not wish to take away your independence! But you must understand, Rohan will fall with its people in peril! Our country has been in glory for so many years; I do not want it to fall when I gain rule of it!"

A tear of anger cascaded down Éowyn's cheek. "Please, brother, do not make me marry! I cannot bear to live my life with someone that I do not know, and do not love! I will not do it!"

Éomer reached over and brushed the tear off of her skin. "Éowyn, I never asked you for anything. You are my beloved sister, and it is killing me to do this to you… But I know that you love our people, and you want to serve them. This may be the only way, dearest one."

The tears flew freely. "How come you cannot just take some Gondor bride as your own? Why must I marry?"

"I am looking into this, my sister, but it will be easier for you to find a husband than me a bride. There are simply more men in this world than women. Please, Éowyn, for me." Éomer took her hands, looking into her eyes pleadingly.

"Give me time," Éowyn finally gasped. "Let me think this over, and I shall give you my final answer then."

Éomer hugged Éowyn impulsively. "I love you, sister, you must know that. Please, consider what I am saying. If your final answer is still no, I will accept your decision with grace. But please, for the love of Rohan, think on it!"

--

Legolas was exhausted. As an Elf, he was not used to the feeling, but having fought for many hours, and not resting at all for many days straight had taken its toll on him. He wanted nothing more than to return to the Houses of Healing and his beloved Éowyn.

It was a cool night, and Legolas fervently wished that he had thought to wear a warmer tunic as he rushed through the streets of Ithilien. He had met Aragorn and Gimli at the edge of the city, and spoken to them for a while. They were both in excellent health and spirits. The three would have spoken for longer, but Legolas had felt an urge to return to Éowyn, and therefore excused himself from their company. Aragorn, at least, had understood.

"Hello there."

Legolas turned around, not pausing in his walk. He saw a scantily clad woman walking beside him, slowly and deliberately. She was smiling seductively, and beckoning to him with a long, white finger. Legolas groaned to himself, and began to walk faster.

"I was talking to you, sir."

Not turning, Legolas spoke. "I have no need of your company, miss. I suggest you go find someone else who is in need of your services." The woman laughed throatily.

"I am in need of your company. You are very handsome."

"Leave me alone, lady," Legolas growled. The woman caught up to Legolas, and laid a hand on his arm.

"Hear me out, my lord," she said. "I don't want any pay. I just want a warm bed and some good company."

Legolas stopped, and the woman stopped with him. Her hand still rested on his arm. Legolas stepped closer, his eyes blazing with anger. The woman appeared not to notice his anger, and moved even closer to him, so that she was almost pressed against his body. Her hand was still touching his arm.

"No one would know," she said quietly, reaching her free hand up, and delicately tracing the tips of his ears. "You are an Elf," she breathed. "I have never been with one of your kind before."

"And it will remain that way," Legolas said harshly. "I will tell you for the last time. Leave me alone."

"Legolas!"

They both turned towards the voice, still standing close together. Éowyn stood in front of them, tears streaming down her face. Legolas tried to open his mouth to thank her for saving him, but was stopped by the intense look of anger and hatred in Éowyn's eyes.

"I saw Lord Aragorn and Master Gimli in the halls a few moments ago," Éowyn said slowly. "I was looking for you, and they said that you had left a long while ago." She stopped, eyeing him and the woman. "They said that they thought you were coming to see me. I can see now that this was not the case."

Horrified, Legolas began to speak. "Éowyn!" he said desperately, ripping his arm out of the other woman's grasp.

"Do not speak to me, Legolas," Éowyn said angrily. "I can see now that you never meant any of what you said to me. Do you do this often?"

"Do what?!" Legolas asked, thoroughly bewildered and fearful. "I was just coming to see you!"

"I am not naïve!" Éowyn screamed. "Your tricks may have worked on me before, but they will not now. I can see that I was nothing more than a distraction from the troubles of war. But now that you are back and safe, you can have your choice of other women." Éowyn spit out the last few words. "Well, Legolas, I was coming to tell you that I do not need you any more. I have made up my mind to marry someone else. Farewell." With one last look, Éowyn shook her head angrily and turned on her heel, running off into the night.

"Éowyn, wait! It is not as it seems!" But it was too late. She was gone.

The woman touched his shoulder again. "I guess you'll be needing my company now," she purred.

Legolas turned around and spit in her face. "I would rather be dead," he said coldly, then hurried to follow Éowyn.

--

Éowyn ran to Éomer's rooms, and threw open the doors. Her brother sat on his makeshift throne, deep in conference with one of his guards. They looked up in shock as Éowyn rushed in.

"My brother," Éowyn gasped, tears flowing freely. "I have made up my mind. I shall do as you bid. I will marry Lord Faramir of Gondor."

--

Hate me now? I understand. Don't worry, there are a few more chapters, as well as a sequel. Tell me what you think!

Chapter 16 coming soon!