Journey's End
Pairings: There are some book pairings.
Events: This fiction is one that follows the path of Rohan through the end of the War of the Ring. Beyond the end of the story, there are chapters concerning the first few years of the Fourth Age, after the passing of the Ringbearers into the West.
Disclaimer: J.R.R. Tolkien owns 'The Lord of the Rings' book series. Joss Whedon controls the world of Buffy. Peter Jackson and company own 'The Lord of the Rings' films. We only own a part of the plot.
Summary: Buffy is summoned to fulfill an oath before she can rest in peace.
In Gratitude: As this story comes to its conclusion, well… you know the drill.
Claddagh - So much story to tell, so few chapters remaining.
General Mac - of course.
sparky24 - There was reason for the Elf bashing that is further explained in this chapter. It has something to do with Éomer and Legolas and the rivalry since when they first met. And yes, I will miss this story, too.
XinnLajgin - Oh, wow. Thank you for the little lesson. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter.
spk - I was thinking that the only way Buffy would truly be at peace is when she realized that her self-sacrifice would lead to good things happening instead of death, mayhem and destruction on their end. As for being 'almost complete', it has a lot of meanings. Part of it has to do with their developing relationship. Another part of it has to do with her new powers and this so-called destiny awaiting her. Part of it is explained in this chapter.
Cat – Thank you!
Tommy14 – Thank you very much. Neither can I, really.
Chapter Summary: A former King leaves for his final resting place and a former Lady leaves her home for the last time.
Chapter Warning: This is Katrina's last chapter. After this amazing journey, she was perfectly happy to conclude her involvement here. I do regret that I altered part of the book (if you love the books as I do, you will see where) but understand that I did want to part from the book and I thought that this was one way to do it.
x-x-x
Chapter 28
Journey Home
By Katrina Claire
x-x-x
Buffy was awakened at dawn suddenly. She glanced around her dim room and rose, dressing quickly. She was walking through the fourth tier of the city as the sun rose and she made it to the citadel less than an hour later. For some reason, she felt as though she needed to be here. She wasn't quite sure as to why. She soon saw the reason standing on a hill past the citadel. Apparently, it was way above the citadel. Yet his gleaming white robes were quite obvious to the granite surrounding him. He was gazing peacefully out at the sunrise. And yet when they made eye contact, he beckoned her up and disappeared behind a particularly jagged rock.
Buffy made her way past the citadel and to the rocky trail behind the ageless structure. It took her a good twenty minutes to even reach the top of the summit. Even so, she was sticky and out of breath as she gazed down and nearly swooned. She had never been one to fear heights, but this was ridiculous. Though the beacon was still two hundred or so feet above her, this was still somewhere in the elevation of three or four thousand feet in the air, or more. And yet she felt a great power just looking at the distance between her and the Pelennor. This would make for some awesome skydiving.
A throat cleared behind her and she turned to see the Wizard approaching, looking amused. "I trust that you slept well?"
"Very," Buffy said, giving the old man a pleasant smile and turning back to regard the scenery below her. "That's a long way down."
Gandalf promptly glanced over the cliff's edge and gave a narrow shudder. "That would not be a pleasant way to go," he said in a hushed voice. "I really hope you do not consider making such a move."
"I'm not jumping any cliffs today," Buffy replied, taking a step back and turning to greet the Wizard. "Good morning."
"So it is," Gandalf replied, gesturing towards another narrow path leading into the mountains. Buffy nodded and walked ahead of him, sensing that Gandalf wished to speak to her in private. This had to be the most remote part of the city. "As you will be leaving for Rohan soon, I wished to have a private word with you." He gave her a rather curious look as she paused, glancing at the ancient trees now growing out of either side of the steep rock wall. She suddenly felt as though she was being cornered someplace. "Much will now change now that this war has ended. I am certain you know of this."
"I'm not going to change my mind if that's what you're asking," she said, casting him a sideways glance. "I happen to like where I'll be living."
"There is much more to this world than a simple people, my dear child," Gandalf replied, leaning against the rocks and gazing up at the wispy sky above them. "I was hoping this walk would garner such perspective. There are places to journey and thousands of new lands and ideas to learn… the world is open to your mind if you would open your mind to this world."
Buffy paused, pressing her hand to the rock. "How old is this?"
"Many thousands of years," Gandalf chuckled as he watched her touch the old, crackled structure. "It has stood countless ages since the creation of this world thousands of years ago. In all my time this has stood alone amongst many things. Peoples have fallen, empires have collapsed and though dust from the dead filters the air, well… nature has its way of preserving itself. It was one of many wonders in this world, Buffy. I hope that some day you will see it all."
"I know I started out as your student, Gandalf. But things have changed. I have changed. Part of my soul belongs to that free land now. And I think a part of me will always be back home." She crossed her arms and leaned against an old tree, feeling it shudder against her weight. "Galadriel showed me something last night. She showed me that my friends and family back on my Earth are moving on. They found their own place in this world. I think it's only fair that I find mine."
"I will not discourage you from seeking what you must," Gandalf smiled gently as he stood beside her. "But I will ask you once more… the day may come when I must journey from this world. My place in this time has ended. I have done what I was asked to do – end the reign of a dark Lord. As the time of the Elves has come to an end, so has my own. I, too, carry a burden that must cease to be in this world. I must make my journey into the West." He saw the look of surprise on Buffy's face and shook his head at the confusion in her eyes. "I will not ask you to take the journey into the West. However, if you wish to go, you may. This is not a privilege many are granted, as Valinor was closed to all but the Immortal ones back in the time when men grew corrupt and wished for that light to be their own. You have granted yourself a place in the timeless West to cure your hurts and to live a blessed life, a happy life."
"An empty life," she deadpanned. "Forgive me, Gandalf… but how can you ask me to give this up? I stand here as a Slayer, someone with the power to affect change and to destroy all that would stand against the innocent. I have protected the people my entire life. I can't just throw that away. There's… something for me here. To travel west would be—"
"An eternal Heaven, the one that you longed to seek," Gandalf replied, resting his hand upon her shoulder. "There you will find comfort and joy and peace at last. You will find no time exists, nor can it be counted. There will a vast green shore under a swift sunrise and with the waves of a new sea crashing upon newborn rock. There, at last, I will find my peace."
"Are you telling me that if I gave this up, I could go to Heaven?" she asked, blinking in disbelief. "Gandalf, I…"
"The journey to the Grey Havens is not one undertaken lightly," he reminded her. "It is a long journey with many stops. I wish for you to take this with me, if you are able. I wish for you to see what I have not yet shown you."
After a moment, she nodded. "I will. After all you've done for me this is the least I could do."
They shared a decidedly warmer smile.
"I will not deceive you as others may," Gandalf said, as he led the way back down the path, "but this will not be an easy life for you. Hardness and toils you are accustomed to. Seeing the hurts in battle you know. Helping a nation find peace and prosper once again is a challenge not taken by many. There is great hope for you, but much stands to fall if you should fail."
"That's why I can't fail them," Buffy said, shaking her head. "I'm a Slayer, Gandalf. I don't know how to fail."
He watched as she continued walking before allowing a small smile and following behind her. As soon as they reached the sharp cliff and path back to the citadel, she stopped. "I still think this would be one wicked ride."
Gandalf peered over the rocks again and shook his head. "Only for the very young would that distance be a great feat."
"Oh, come on," Buffy said, turning to look at him, her eyes twinkling. "You're telling me that a Wizard such as yourself wouldn't enjoy the ultimate rush of speeding air and the risk of impending doom?"
"No, I cannot say that I would enjoy such a… rush," Gandalf replied, his brow furrowing. "If you were to make such a claim, I would have you claimed by the Houses of Healing never to return to Rohan."
She gave him a long look before scoffing and beginning the descent downwards. "You sound like Giles."
He waited until she was out of sight before he muttered, "I believe that may have been a compliment."
The sun had fully risen by the time Buffy returned to the citadel. She continued across the long trek to the gates leading back to the sixth tier when she spied Gandalf far above again. He was gazing thoughtfully over the edge of the cliff and shaking his head sadly. Smirking to herself, she continued down the ramp and out of sight of the old Wizard.
x-x-x
As the funeral train was apparently getting underway, Buffy was soon found on the fifth tier and was led to what the Gondorians called the morgue. The guards released the doors and then allowed her inside. Already King Théoden was being prepped to go as they were placing him in a clear case. He was covered by a replica of the Rohan banner and though his face had altered little during their departure, there was a definite scent of the dead around him.
The men who had been tending to them noticed her and quickly left, giving her a moment of privacy with the fallen King.
She was soon left alone in a room encased with the tombs of dead Stewards and, likely, Kings. It was both creepy and eerily insightful at the same time. Bending down, she placed her hand on the King's chest, only to feel it compress with the slightest touch. Wincing slightly but not pulling back, she held the position a moment before she felt compelled to speak.
"You were the reason I was brought here. You were the King I was sent to guide, to guard and to save. I don't think I did a very good job. But now I've got a second chance, you know? I only hope you don't mind I'm sticking around. I kind of like your land. And your nephew is great. I hope you can see how perfectly you raised him. He is going to be a great King. I only hope I can help him." She smiled as she decided to append her words. "I know I can help him. He's a special man. No special ed or anything you'll never be able to understand, but he's… he's one of the best men I've ever known. He loves what he does and he's good at it. He's got this duty, this destiny and he's willing to do whatever it takes to see it through. I'm going to be there with him for as long as I can. I'm going to take this journey home. Thank you for giving what you gave. You were a worthy King and I was proud to serve you. Very proud… I just wish I could have said some of this when you were still alive. Here's to the future of your beloved Rohan." She lifted her hand and clasped his. "May you rest in peace."
Her perfect control was shattered for an instance when she saw the cracked horn resting alongside him in his coffin. Blinking, she lifted it and held it for a moment before returning the horn to his elbow. "Goodbye," she whispered as she turned away. It was eerie listening to her own footsteps as she crossed the marble terrace. Turning one last time, she saw the guards returning to tend to their fallen King.
She returned to her rented room and began packing things away. She knew that it would be some time before she saw Gondor again, much less this city. As soon as she was done packing, which didn't take very long as she didn't have many belongings, she heard the approach of several people. When she turned to the doorway, she was surprised to see the Elf and the Dwarf waiting outside.
"Dear lady," Gimli said, accepting her invitation inside and gazing around the cozy quarters, "we are nearly prepared to depart."
"How many are going?"
"Many," Legolas replied, ducking as he stepped inside. He frowned as he realized how low the ceilings were and it seemed to amuse both the Dwarf and the young woman, who exchanged a rather amused smirk before she began gathering her things. "King Elessar and Queen Arwen will accompany the funeral escort of King Théoden. We will also make this journey. It is said that no King has ever received such a reception for an escort."
"Well, he does deserve it," Buffy said. "He held up his end of the mark of Earl or something."
This time, Legolas and Gimli exchanged the bemused look. "This 'mark of Earl' has been in place since Rohan was founded, my Lady," Legolas explained patiently.
"I knew that," she frowned, spinning in a circle. "I thought I was missing a corset…"
Their amused look quickly turned embarrassed as they watched the well-respected woman move around the small room, get down on all fours and glance under her bed. "Lady, if you are missing an item," Gimli began in an uncomfortable voice.
"Thing is, I wasn't even sure I brought it," she muttered from under the bed. She started to speak again, but was cut off by a sneeze and a string of colorful curses, none of which Legolas or Gimli understood. "And it's not like I can just drive back later to look for it."
"Lady?" Legolas asked.
"Oh, stop it with the 'lady' this and 'lady' that," she snapped, getting back to her feet and reaching for her pack. "It's Buffy, okay? Just Buffy. Don't call me Merilin or Lady or your royal pain-in-the-ass-ness or anything like that, okay?"
"Of course," Gimli said with a curt nod. They stepped aside as she dragged her pack out into the air, glanced around and began her journey back towards the Pelennor.
There were many already gathered on the field when she approached. A hand moved out to return Sador to her more than capable care. Buffy was thrilled when she saw her horse, as was Sador when she saw her master. Tossing her head, she buried her nose over her master's shoulder as Buffy clung briefly to her faithful steed's neck before stepping back. After attaching the pack to the saddle, she quickly mounted the steed and glanced around. Only half of the Rohirrim guards were present. She was stunned to see dozens of well-dressed Elves awaiting the escort to begin. What amazed her were Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn waiting patiently atop their mounts, gazing benignly at the crowds swelling around them. Her attention went back to the open gate (as there was yet no gate standing) as Queen Evenstar appeared with four ponies around her. The ponies were led to the four smallest members of their party. All four Hobbits quickly mounted these steeds and waited aside the Queen, who rode apart from her father and grandmother, looking uneasy. Buffy gently pushed Sador to the Queen's side.
Arwen smiled at her as she saw Buffy pull up next to her. "It pleases me to see that you are making this journey," she said in a low voice.
"Oh, I wouldn't miss it," Buffy replied airily. "Besides, I kind of like the thought of going home."
There was a dark look on Arwen's face as she looked away. "Home… that word is relative to the one who speaks it," she murmured.
"Home is where you happen to be, if your heart's in it," Buffy replied matter-of-factly. "Home isn't the place where you were brought up. Home isn't your family waving goodbye. Home is where you choose to be."
"It still pains me to see those I care for in such obvious pain over this choice," Arwen replied, her voice losing a bit of intensity.
"Give them time to accept your choice, Arwen. You haven't been Queen for two weeks yet," Buffy said, hiding her own smirk. "Besides, you will make a fantastic queen. From what I've heard, you've got a great future ahead of you."
"It is a future that will lead to death," Arwen whispered. "This is no feat for someone of my blood or of my kin."
"You chose this path because you loved him," Buffy steadily replied. "Don't regret making the best decision of your life. Together, you will do great things. This world will be better because of him and because of you. You were born to lead Arwen. You weren't born to waste away in an Elvish paradise, no matter what anyone says."
"I could say the same for you," Arwen said, lifting her solid grey eyes and meeting Buffy's directly. "Your words carry wisdom and hope. You will bring a great future to these people."
"I know," Buffy replied. She was tired of denying that she would be a great queen. She was tired of saying that she would not step up should it be asked of her. But she was still, above all, Éomer's counsel. "This world is lucky because look at who it has to lead them. There is so much to do to make things right. And I think I know where to start."
Arwen nodded, her gaze flickering up towards the gate. There were still figures moving through, but King Théoden's body had not. King Elessar and King Éomer were also missing. "Should you remain at Edoras, you should know that you are always welcome at the Citadel. It would be an honor to host such a benevolent lady."
"I think you'd be welcome in Edoras, too," Buffy replied lightly. "I mean, you never know… I could finally learn how to cook."
Arwen's light laughter was almost worth it, Buffy thought, smirking to herself. She would have continued on had four horses not stepped from the gate. Two were leading forward a large cart with a casing on top of it. The two riders behind the cart were King Elessar and King Éomer. Queen Arwen gave her a soft look before urging her steed forward to meet her husband's. Buffy remained where she was, surrounded by Hobbits, as the cart rode by. She caught a brief glimpse of the dead man within. She heard a strange silence befall the riders beyond the cart and knew that the entire valley was waiting on bated breath for the cart to pass them. She turned and saw a Hobbit ride forward. "Merry?" she asked quietly. As she saw his pony broke into a full canter, she shouted out, "Merry!"
Two of the Rohirrim guards saw the Hobbit ride forward and quickly cut him off. She blinked as she turned and slowly prompted Sador forward to join the rest of the Rohirrim guard. The Elves were allowed to set forward first, but they remained behind, wishing for Rohan to lead the way back. As they left the valley and the safety of the City of Kings, soldiers of Gondor stood on either side of the path, holding an unlit torch every third man. The others stood there with their leather-clad fists clasped to their heart. In silence, Buffy rode ahead and continued to move. Merry watched as she left, riding up alongside the King. They didn't acknowledge one another, but they continued forward. As the guards in front of him left, he watched as the cart began moving again. He saw Théoden's peaceful face and felt comforted that, at least, he was going to rest in his own tomb near his son, dearest to him.
After the Rohirrim had ridden on, King Elessar and Queen Arwen rode next. Elessar turned to beckon the Hobbits forward and they followed directly behind the cart. Behind them were Aragorn's guards and the Elves. Lastly were the others who had chosen this path, Gandalf included. In all, more than two hundred were taking this journey to the north.
The silence lasted no more than a few hours. As they continued to ride, a soft song began. It sounded distance and peaceful, but it spoke strongly of loss. It took Buffy a moment to realize that the Elves were singing. Gandalf rode from the rearguard towards the front, passing the cart as he joined his former pupil. She dropped behind King Éomer to speak with him, but he had no words to say. Instead, they were privileged to Elf-song, the most peaceful lament she had yet heard. She almost wished she could have hired them for her funeral.
As darkness fell, the silence once again closed around them. As they stopped to rest, Buffy saw Merry and Pippin upon the cart, carefully cleaning the box the fallen King was now encased in. She stood for a moment, pitying them. Feeling a hand on her shoulder, she saw Éomer over her shoulder and quickly drew her gaze away. They moved apart from the others and sat in silence. There were no words of comfort to speak. She was happy she was returning home, if Rohan could be called such, but she wasn't about to boast the fact she was happy.
A red sun rose the following morning. The Elves took this as a particularly ominous omen and moved rapidly, speaking in their own tongue dire warnings. Buffy shrugged off the red sun, taking it as an old fisherman's tale from her time. Obviously the weather was going to suck.
And so it did; a storm came from the mountains and drenched the long train. The escort was slowed in its progress by the heavy rains and rolling creeks the frightened horses were reluctant to cross. Buffy felt a surge of pride for Sador as her faithful horse easily crossed the river. Wrapping her dripping cloak about her head, she blinked through the cold sheets of rain and steadied Sador to await the passing of others. Prince Faramir's horse easily crossed the creek and took to the muddy, rocky path to join hers.
"This is far too dangerous to attempt," he shouted through the sound of pounding droplets on the forest around them.
"Like we have much of a choice," she shouted back, her teeth chattering. "If we stay on the plain, we'll drown. Those creeks are rising so fast!"
"There must be a safer way to cross," Faramir grumbled. It was his hopes that she would not have heard, but he seemed to forget her advanced senses and he knew she could hear him perfectly when he saw her irritated look.
By the next morning, the waterlogged group welcomed the cool sunlight, which seemed to continue for the remainder of the journey across the mountains and through the hills. Once in Rohan, the weather was downright steamy. It was warm, yet dry. Buffy removed her outer cloak and embraced the warmth of the sun, throwing her arms back. An amused Sador charged forward, the motion nearly knocking the rider off of her.
The following day, Edoras was well within sights. Buffy's heart warmed to see the gleaming hill city, awaiting them. As they drew nearer, she saw long lines of Rohirrim awaiting them. They too carried torches, only these were lit. It was falling to darkness and the lit path was a beacon of light, showing them the road into the city. Buffy happily rode through them, seeing many familiar faces amongst those. As they reached the gates of the city, she was stunned to see the children once again standing there, holding candles. King Éomer was welcomed into his city and a long trail of others followed him.
The cart holding the King was allowed to pass. As it did, there was a long, slow song sung by the children in the Rohirric tongue. These were words few could understand, yet she saw Éomer mouthing them, tears evident in his eyes. This caused her to pause and two guards nearly ran into the rear of her steed. Never, in a thousand years, would she have thought to see this man cry.
Meduseld was as welcoming as ever. Éowyn had been waiting at her usual spot overlooking the city but withdrew inside as the riders began dismounting. She was in the entry hall, awaiting the return of her brother. Once she had greeted Éomer, Buffy and the rest of her brother's personal guards, she saw them move off. A slight smile graced her delicate features as she saw Éomer and Buffy leave together, side by side. She heard another voice and turned, her own heart beating erratically behind her chest. Seeing a familiar face within the crowd, she burst down the steps, pushing the others aside and passed into the arms of her soon-to-be husband. Faramir held onto her for a long moment as she laughed joyously into his ear. They held one another for a long, blissful moment 'ere he set her down. Reaching up with a cold hand to touch his face, he drew it down to hers as they enjoyed their first moment together under a brilliant Rohan sunset.
After greeting Faramir and watching as the others began populating their city, Éowyn retreated to the back of the old house and saw the cart with her Uncle's body. Faramir remained by her side until she released his hand. Giving her a comforting smile and pat on the shoulder, he released her to do whatever she needed. Éowyn moved forward to the cart and hid a sob as she saw her uncle's body entombed within. Blinking back tears, she ran her hand over the smooth, clear surface, admiring the way the shadows fell across his face. Releasing a long breath, she turned back to Faramir and they moved off together into the night.
Buffy was only in her room for a few seconds before Éomer called her out. Setting her pack aside, she had just removed her cloak when the knock sounded. King Éomer was on the other side and he wished for a word with her.
"Tomorrow the funeral will be held," he said clearly as he closed the door to his quarters behind her. "I wish for you to be there at my side. He… he trusted you above many others. He may not have spoken this to you, but he has spoken the truth to me. He believed you were capable of a great many things and he would have wanted you to remain at his side even as he was placed to rest." He turned and sat on a seat near the fire and gazed into its fiery depths as Buffy approached him from behind.
"I visited him before we left," Buffy admitted, and she told him what she had said. He listened patiently until she finished speaking.
"I understand," he replied, taking her hands and pulling her near to him. "For others, however, they will see their fallen leader and know that grief is still too near. They will not understand why so many have come to this funeral."
"Your uncle was a great man and a wonderful King," she said, gazing down at him where he sat. "It's only fair that your people have the chance to say goodbye."
"You are wise," Éomer said in relief.
"I had a good teacher," Buffy replied, shrugging. Gazing over his shoulder into the fire, she felt as though the warmth was spreading through her very being. "The children were brought back from the country?"
"Éowyn arranged this," he reluctantly admitted. "I knew that you approved of their welcome before and I believed it to be right for them to see their King return."
"It was a wise choice to delegate it to your sister, too," she said, giving him a sharp, appraising-type of look. "You just keep getting smarter and smarter, don't you?"
"I have had a good teacher," he replied, pulling her even nearer.
The sounds of Meduseld coming to life around them seemed to fade away. Pulling her to him, she sat at the edge of his seat and remained there in his arms as they both stared at the fire, enjoying the quiet for awhile.
"What happens now?" she asked, turning to face him.
"Though it may seem that time has come to stand still, there is much Rohan must do to prepare for the coming seasons," Éomer replied quietly. "But all news is not of work and toil. There is still a wedding to plan and a ceremony to attend."
She turned in his arms to gaze at him until she realized what he was talking about. "Éowyn's wedding?" she asked, a small smile playing along her lips.
He nodded. "I felt it only fair to attend as I am her brother."
"But what will I wear?" she asked dramatically, letting her head fall against his armored shoulder. She heard him chuckle as he shook his head.
"I do not believe such things will ever change," he declared.
"You know you like these things," she teased as she rose to her feet and stepped away from the fire. Suddenly she felt too flushed for comfort. She heard him move behind her and quickly took another few steps, eager to put some distance between them. There was a sudden playful look in his eyes as she moved towards the door. He quickly rushed to block it and she shrieked, taking several quick steps away and stumbling over the edge of his bed. He laughed and quickly rushed to her, yet again she moved away.
"Just admit that I'm faster than you," she laughed as she sprinted in front of the fireplace and leapt onto his seat, towering above him, her arms held out behind her for balance.
"I know for certain that you are much swifter than I could ever hope to be," he replied, smirking as he approached her. She didn't move and allowed him to reach her before leaping gracefully in the air. He managed to catch her before her face was met by the floor and held her a moment before her feet touched the ground. As she smoothed her gown, their eyes met. His arms tightened around her, pressing her to his armor.
"No fair," she pouted as he continued to tighten his grasp. "You're bigger than I am."
"I do not believe that you would need the protection," he said, amused as he kissed her.
"You're right," she said breathlessly a moment later. "I don't."
"Nor would you need the shelter," he replied, as she tightened her own hold, pulling him down to her for another brief embrace.
"Hmm… you're getting warmer," she hinted as his arms lifted her against him.
"I am uncertain as to what you would need," he frowned, looking puzzled despite the close moment.
"Just… shut up," she said at last, before pressing her lips to his. It seemed to him that it was futile to resist.
x-x-x
The next morning was cold. Buffy rolled out of bed and quickly pulled a wrap over her shoulders, gazing at her empty room. Despite the amount of fun she'd had last night, she had been tired from their long trek through the plains of Rohan and her bed looked more welcome than ever near midnight. At her washing bin, she quickly bathed and scrubbed the essence of horse from her skin. Dressing quickly, she retreated to the kitchens. She was pleasantly surprised to see that both Faramir and Éowyn were present and sitting side by side, eating quietly and enjoying a rather fond smile between lovers. Buffy felt a slight push of envy as they greeted her warmly.
"Good morning," Buffy said, smiling awkwardly as she sat at the large table. Recalling a conversation from months before, she smirked into her tea and quickly cut herself a chunk of bread and selected from a variety of fruit.
Faramir bent to kiss his future bride's cheek before rising. "I must see to something so your pardon, my ladies."
Éowyn beamed up at Faramir and released his hand as he left. As soon as he was out of sight, she turned and gave Buffy a rather fond look as well. "As soon as you are finished, I have a surprise for you."
Buffy's fork froze halfway to her mouth. "You do remember our conversation about the fact I hate surprises, right?"
"You may consider this one a gift," Éowyn prompted with a gay smile.
"Even better," Buffy moaned as she finished her breakfast.
"As soon as you left, I began to realize that a lady of your stature should not remain within a guest room of this estate," Éowyn began as they followed the spiral staircase to the main level and crossed the hallway before the throne room. The room was silent, though a peal of sunlight lit the room with a warm, golden glow. Buffy felt compelled to stay behind, but Éowyn pulled her onwards. As soon as they reached the top of the staircase, Éowyn removed a scrap of fabric.
"I'm going to start protesting soon," Buffy said, slightly annoyed as Éowyn tied the material over her eyes.
"You see too much," Éowyn said, unable to hide a grin as she led the woman forward. "I wished for you to see this as I will soon be leaving Meduseld and it is unlikely I will ever return."
Buffy let out a slow breath. All she could see because of the blindfold was muted light.
Éowyn lifted her chin and nodded to Faramir, who opened the door along with a separate guard. Éowyn led her to the center of the room. Glancing around, satisfied by her decision, she turned back to the annoyed, blindfolded Slayer. "I wished for you to have a space to rest and this room is very dear to me."
Buffy looked confused as she felt the woman's small hands reach up and untie the blindfold. As the material fell away, Buffy's eyes took in the many long streams of warm sunlight that fell into the room. She turned in a circle, taking in a large table and mirror, an even larger bed, a small sitting area and two fireplaces. In the opposite corner was a set of stairs that led to a loft. Three large windows and a skylight allowed ample sunshine to fill the room with color. Éowyn had indeed accomplished this, as the curtains and bedspread were both in beautiful shades of green.
"Éowyn," she whispered, her tone hushed as she turned to the other woman. Faramir was standing at the doorway, pulling the double doors closed behind him. "It's amazing."
"I want you to have my mother's bedroom," Éowyn said, smiling at Buffy's stunned reaction. "This room was once a beacon of light, laughter and music. I want it to be filled with light again. It has been too dark and filled with bitter memories. It is haunted with the presence of a woman who died so many years before. And now it will be whole again…" Éowyn's voice was choked as she struggled to speak through her tears. "She would have loved you."
Buffy came forward and hugged the older woman tightly. "Thank you," she said softly as Éowyn's arms tightened around her. "Thank you so much."
Éowyn let out a long breath as the two women separated, taking another moment to admire the room. "You are the lady of the estate," she breathed into Buffy's ear. "Now you have the room to prove it."
Buffy smirked as she continued to glance around the room. There were maps and scrolls and books set on shelves. Leaving these behind, she started walking upstairs only to find a small loft. There was a hammock-like object in the far corner with several cushions and another larger bookshelf. There was also a small table with a small silver basin and another mirror. All in all, it was the perfect place to 'get away from it all', Buffy thought, gazing out two smaller windows and seeing Edoras come to life below. As she returned downstairs, she was surprised to see that Éowyn had left. Knowing what this meant and the amount of packing she had to do, she hurried forward.
It was then she saw the wall nearest the door. There was a plethora of swords, knives and other miscellaneous weapons hanging on a dark cloth, many within her grasp. She tilted her head as she touched the weapons, feeling as though they empowered her. Sometimes, she just couldn't believe her luck.
x-x-x
It was dusk that day when the last funeral procession began. The green tomb had been opened, the stone set aside as the King's foremost guards came forward, six holding the large, ornate platform. The King had been removed from the crate and set on top of this platform and now, at last, they moved forward.
Hundreds of soldiers stood on either side. Those closest to the path held their swords overhead. The ones standing behind held their hands at their sides. King Éomer stood behind the six guards, his face set in a rather emotionless look. Buffy was at his side as he had requested and his hand remained on her back. She wore a long black gown embroidered with silver. It was a child's dress but it seemed appropriate for this moment. A ring of silver sat atop her carefully made-up hair.
Éowyn and the guests of the King all remained near the tomb. Her gown was both black and lavender. A ring of gold decorated her fair head as she stood there.
Silently the six guards came forth, bringing the body of King Théoden, son of Thengel, with them. King Éomer followed close behind, his own personal guards walking behind him. He glanced up at King Elessar and Queen Arwen who stood opposite Éowyn nearest the tomb entrance. They both wore fragile expressions of grief, but Éomer knew that Aragorn's grief was not something shown readily. Aragorn had once served under Théoden and it gave him comfort to know that his friend and brother was there at this time during his people's greatest need.
As soon as she spotted them, Éowyn lifted up her chin and began to sing. Thought the song was in the tongue of her people and not many could understand it, she alone carried the tune, sorrow evident in her voice. Out of doubt, out of dark, to the day's rising he rode singing in the sun, sword unsheathing. Hope he rekindled and in hope ended; over death, over dread, over doom lifted out of loss, out of life, unto long glory… As she sang, the platform was lowered through the door of the green tomb and was at last set inside. Éowyn's voice faded as tears overtook her. Many remained as the cold wind whipped their cloaks about. Buffy held her breath as she stood there, staring at the feet of the man who had brought her into this world. She glanced down, blinking as her own emotions caught up with her.
It was four guards of both Gondor and Rohan that rolled the stone back into place. For a long while Éomer stood there. Buffy thought of leaving him for some privacy in his grief, yet he held onto her arm and would not permit her to leave. People were drifting back towards Meduseld and the cheerful party awaiting them within. Buffy watched as Merry suddenly appeared and stood at the front of the tomb, his small hand pressed against the stone. Though many could not have heard him, she did.
"Farewell, Théoden King. A father to me you were, if only for a little while." Turning, Merry saw the King and the woman standing next to him. Though Éomer was lost in his own grief, Buffy met Merry's eyes and inclined her head as a show of respect. He gave her a hesitant smile before moving off in the darkness.
"Come on," she said gently, tugging Éomer's hand as she turned about and started walking back towards Meduseld. "Your people await you."
Though reluctant, he followed her lead back towards the Golden Hall. Many had already gathered within and remained silent. Éowyn soon approached them, holding a filled goblet in her hands. "It is a custom of the Mark to celebrate the line of Kings as one has fallen," she whispered to Buffy, who was moving to sit with the other guests. "It is one of the many customs you will learn."
"Thanks," Buffy quickly muttered as she sat near Prince Faramir, who gave her a welcoming smile. The crowd grew silent as Éowyn handed Éomer the cup and the current King lifted the goblet and began to announce the Kings of old, sipping to their death after each name was listed. At last his own name was rejoiced and the crowd grew still again as the King set down his now-empty goblet and pleasantly announced the engagement of his sister to Prince Faramir. It was then that the crowd stirred rapidly to life.
x-x-x
Buffy awoke late the next morning. She had spent much of the previous night in the company of the Elves, much to Éomer's disgust. She had asked him why he was prejudiced so and he explained to her that the Elves of Lórien were feared amongst his people. She pressed him further and he finally admitted that Legolas had aimed a bow and arrow at him at their first meeting. He was still sore on the Woodlands being and Buffy smiled, suddenly understanding. There was a passing rivalry there; that much was obvious. She knew something was up when Legolas actually accepted a drinking challenge against Éomer. Buffy had chalked it up to over-stemming testosterone, but she knew better. The people were talking as well when she and Éomer left the Golden Hall hand-in-hand. Éowyn would reveal nothing save the fact that they were close friends and she was still his counsel.
This morning, sleeping in a bed that felt more like a cloud, she rose and dressed. The breakfast table was rather full when she arrived. She accepted a cup of tea from a passing servant and quickly made for the throne room where she was told Éomer was holding court.
Seeing him in his chair for the first time, he looked as though he belonged there. She hovered near the doorway, a soft smile on her face as she watched him speak with both Aragorn and Faramir. Upon spying her standing near the door with a cup in her hands, she was beckoned forward and welcomed warmly by the men present. Seeing Imrahil on the other side of the chair, she greeted him as well. "I have asked to remain behind for a time," Faramir said, bowing his head. "I fear that Éowyn is not yet ready to go."
"She's almost ready," Buffy said dryly. "But you know how women pack."
Imrahil also volunteered to remain behind with the Prince Faramir and Lady Éowyn. But Aragorn soon spoke that the time had come for the others to proceed. "We have a long journey ahead of us," he said by way of apology. "We will ride to Helm's Deep this eve and will be in Isengard by the passing of the moon."
But nothing prepared her for Aragorn's next statement. "My Queen wishes to remain at Edoras 'ere our return," he said, his voice shaking slightly. "She has no wish to proceed further with her kin, as there remain only bitter thoughts of passing there."
"It'll be nice to have her in my company for a few more days," Buffy said pleasantly, the anxious look disappearing from Aragorn's face. "I'll do my best to entertain her."
"She has expressed a hope in getting to know you better, lady," Aragorn replied, blowing his head.
"After what you said, how could I not want to know her?" Buffy asked, smiling.
"Then it is settled," Éomer said, rising. "I will ask the stable hands to prepare the horses for your journey north. I only ask that you take caution and great care, for things may be unsettled past the Gap."
Buffy watched as the men trailed off, leaving her and Éomer alone in the throne room. Watching as he sat again, looking thoughtful she couldn't help but choke out, "And you're a vision just sitting there like that."
Her gave her a confused look. "Am I supposed to seat differently upon my throne?" he asked distantly.
"No," she said, shaking her head. "I think you look perfect… all King-like and manly and just… you know, perfect." Seeing the look on her face, he rolled his eyes and sighed.
"You mock me," he grunted.
She came up next to him and gave him a quick sideways hug. "Not this time." Kissing the edge of his shiny crown, she left his presence and returned to the streets of Edoras.
Seeing who she wanted to see, she moved towards Gandalf. Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn were riding towards them and they both looked as though they had something to say.
"I guess that this would be goodbye and farewell," Gandalf said, turning to appraise her.
"I guess it is," she said tightly, leaning forward and clasping his hand. "It's been an honor, Gandalf."
"Do not despair, dear child, for there is much left for you to do," he said, his eyes twinkling. "What I spoke of in Minas Tirith was just an inkling of the future now lying before you. I know of what Galadriel spoke of. A guardian of the innocent, indeed!"
"Guardian of the innocent?" she asked, the blood rushing from her face. Lady Galadriel was now pausing and gazing at her thoughtfully. "Oh, well… I guess I always knew my destiny wasn't about a crown."
"I guess it depends on which crown you are willing to wear."
Buffy glanced at Gandalf, confused as he moved away on Shadowfax.
"I will see you again, my dear. Do remember your word that you will travel with me as I prepare to journey West."
"I'll remember," Buffy said, watching as he moved briskly away. She then watched Merry leaving the company of Faramir and Éowyn, holding a horn and looking rather pleased. She moved forward and was nearly run over by Prince Imrahil's horse as he pulled it back towards the stable. Knowing she was about to lose her chance, she shouted "Merry!"
He frowned as he turned to face her. Yet a hug and a few depressing goodbyes later, Buffy felt thoroughly bummed as she stepped back. Pippin had also come to say goodbye, followed by Frodo and Samwise. They were such fun little beings, these Hobbits. She was going to miss them.
At last she saw no way around saying goodbye to the first person who had greeted her in this world. Galadriel was waiting patiently for her. "Do not grieve for those who pass," she stated in her misty tone, "for your time will soon come. I have seen a glimpse of your future and the power and destiny that awaits you, child. You think you know what you are and what you have become, but you have begun to learn." Bending down, she touched Buffy's face gently. "I too will pass into the West and my fellow ringbearers with me. Do not grieve for our time has come. Your time has just begun." Turning, she grasped the reigns to her horse and nudged it on. Buffy felt even more thoroughly confused as she watched Galadriel ride out with Celeborn. Riders were now spilling into the valley.
"Buffy!"
It was an excited voice, a child's voice. Buffy turned just as a figure ran into her. Buffy reached down and touched the top of the girl's shiny dark head. "Elena," she whispered, smiling as she lifted the small girl into her arms. A distance away, Faramir was pointing this out to Éowyn, who beamed with pleasure. To their right, a saddened Arwen turned to see her kin and friends passing south into the valley only to ride west to Helm's Deep. She smiled a sad smile as she held her hand up from beneath her lavender gauze. Aragorn, leading the riders west, raised his own hand as a silent promise that he would soon return to bring his wife to Gondor.
Buffy gently set Elena aside and left her in the company of the guards as she raced up the steps to Meduseld. Once inside, she raced through the throne room, which was once again empty and finding the doors she burst onto the veranda. A cold gust of wind nearly blew her backwards as she charged forward, her gown sweeping back dramatically. Racing to the edge, she felt her breath catch inside her throat. The riders were still moving out of the city and yet she felt as though she would never see some of these people again. Spying Arwen moving beneath her and both Faramir and Éowyn waving in the distance, she held out her own arm, holding it high in one last desperate wave. And then, finally, she shouted out. Éowyn spun around as did many of the guards, muttering in wonder. Faramir, holding Éowyn at his side, smiled and pointed behind the waving Slayer.
Éomer had appeared, looking rather haughty as he joined the younger woman. Pressing his hand to her waist, he lifted his own hand in farewell. Turning back, the riders suddenly picked up speed, moving west. Buffy could see four distinct figures among them, clearly Hobbits moving away. Lowering her arm, she gave Éomer a soft smile before retreating. Holding onto her for another moment, he drew her to him. So far they had only been alone away from the people and in the privacy of Gondor. No more would he hold these feelings at bay. As he kissed her under a sunlit sky a small roar rose from beneath them. The winds whipped around them. And yet, as they parted, Buffy's eyes widened in shock, for all they knew they were the only two people that existed here.
x-x-x
In the next chapter, the journey into the West begins.