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: Complete. Buffy is summoned to fulfill an oath before she can rest in peace.
In Gratitude: This is for everyone who has read this story… we are quite happy with how this story ended up. We really appreciate all feedback great and small, evil and nice and all the rest. As for a sequel, Katrina gave me an actual outline that would concern about five years in the future dealing with war and a plot against all the royal firstborns. I would really like to go ahead with it as soon as this semester is over and we have one month (thank goodness) of winter break. We need to recover from the past month.
Chapter Summary: Buffy fulfills her oath and the peasants rejoice.
Chapter Warning: This chapter was written back in oh, July sometime. After not looking at it for around six months, I finally glanced at it. Two things struck me as being strange. One, it is very sappy. Two, it's quite long. Do enjoy. There will be a short epilogue to follow.
x-x-x-x
Chapter 30
Coronation
By Alyson Kay and Katrina Claire
x-x-x-x
There was a hint of excitement in the air as the winter turned into spring. Already the county of Rohan was preparing for its biggest celebration in a very long time and everywhere one turned, they could hear the plans being made and the excited murmurs from the villagers. Even those in the untamed Westfold spoke highly of the upcoming fête.
Yet life in Edoras was marked by the return of the longest and hardest winter on record, followed by the fastest breeding season they had ever experienced. More than a fair few foals were running amok, and Buffy found herself the privileged one to supervise their training. Considering it had been more than three years since she'd learned to ride a horse, this was a fair learning experience for her. But it was dreadfully boring, as though watching grass grow. It was just one of the painless duties she had been asked to see to. After all, many would frown upon their future Queen doing anything to put her life in peril ere she was actually crowned. Disagreed with this decision as she did (which caused Meduseld itself to tremble), she decided it was the best choice after all. She despised showing any weakness, especially in front of the men who snickered at the thought of their formidable captain being reduced to a lady. She did it with gritted teeth and with a sour mood most of the time, although she did take time far, far away from Edoras and longed to get away from Rohan altogether to escape the insanity.
Yet there were sometimes she could not get away.
This is where she was found on a late March morning, surveying over a hundred foals being put through their paces, cantering back and forth over the uneven fields. She was perched atop a fence post, which was the only way to ensure that she wouldn't fall asleep, when she heard footsteps behind her.
"My Lady."
"What it is with this 'my lady' stuff again?" she asked, turning in annoyance to look at the anxious young woman standing slightly behind her, as though afraid of rebuke. "I thought I put a stop to that two years ago."
"Forgive me," the woman said in a low voice. "It is just that Éothain has returned and wishes to have words with you. He brings news of the progress."
"Oh, great," she added sarcastically as she slid off her perch, dusting off her tunic and trousers. "The only other thing that'll put me to sleep is all this planning."
"He considers it a great honor to have been chosen by yourself to assist in the completion of that which you have asked," the woman replied, looking slightly aghast.
"Okay, so what news is there?" Buffy asked as both women began walking back towards the backside of Edoras.
"He has spoken of its near-completion. Your date will be kept as long as the weather continues to cooperate," the woman said, lifting a hand to gesture to the weak sunlight filtering through high clouds ahead. "This will not be the mid-Summer's ceremony King Éomer had been hoping for, but it will come in the fifth month."
"It's called May," Buffy said firmly.
"Yes, my Lady," the woman said, bowing her head.
"Would you stop?" Buffy asked testily. "If you expect me to be a ruler, you're going to have to quit with the head bowing and the whole subservient thing because that is so not how I want to run a country."
"How fortunate for you that King Éomer tends to agree," the woman said, smirking slightly now. She seemed to be enjoying this torture. Buffy paused a few paces ahead and saw that Éothain was waiting with a number of other horses near the back gate of the city.
"Now do I want to see this?" she asked the woman.
"It would be of great benefit to us both if you did," the woman replied honestly.
Buffy scoffed as she stepped forward, smoothing her slightly wrinkled clothing. Éothain glanced at her and quickly dismounted at once, stepping forward to grasp her hand. "My Lady."
She rolled her eyes towards the younger woman behind her and swore she heard her giggle. Attempting to keep a smile firmly planted on her lips, she turned to the Marshal and nodded. "Let's see what you got, Mister First Marshal." He gestured her forward. Then, as though waiting for her, another horse rode up, tossing her magnificent, though aging head. "Sador," she said, smiling as she greeted her former steed. The horse came up and buried her sweet head into Buffy's shoulder, very pleased to see her former master.
"She has been well kept at my stable," Éothain assured her. "However, for the purpose of what you are about to see, I thought that she might be of use."
"It is good to see you again, girl," Buffy said, gently stroking Sador's nose. "I trust that the grumpy Marshal has been taking good care of you?"
"The best of care," Éothain spoke up, nodding. "She has earned her keep. That much is for certain."
"Good girl," Buffy said, leaning closer to her horse. "Keep him working for his money." Sador tossed her head again and Buffy quickly mounted her steed. It felt so familiar up here that for a moment she forgot her promise to actually return her horse to Sador's former master. She noticed that Éothain was watching her every move and quickly came about and rode forward. "Let's go."
The ride around Edoras wasn't nearly as long as it could have been. It took more than two hours before they finally reached the distant fields, settled in a valley, a gentle cup between two towering peaks to the south. They were at least a hard day's ride from Helm's Deep, but the spot was still one of pristine beauty. And, as they drew closer, she saw a large marble platform had been raised, as well as what looked like an open gazebo. Beautiful pillars carved with horse heads adorned the base of the open gazebo, and there were wide arches that circled behind it. It was a beautiful stand. "Not bad," she commented, realizing that Éothain had been gazing at her since they'd paused and all he saw was the fact her jaw had dropped. "I'm impressed."
"Your blessing means much to me," Éothain said quietly.
"You've got it," Buffy said, steadying Sador as she drew level with the stand and dismounted. Walking through it was somewhat of a dream. Gazing out to see Edoras in the distance, she saw elegantly carved benches extending half as far as she could see. It was be the perfect setting for a wedding, she decided. At least they had the place decided. "I only wish King Éomer were here to see this."
"And where is your betrothed?" Éothain asked, frowning. "I was under the impression that he would have returned two days prior."
"He got held up," Buffy said, and quickly lifted a hand to stifle her laughter. The King was still working on a network system of connecting the larger cities through Rohan, she thought. Since he had announced their engagement the previous autumn, he had been gone for so long that she hadn't seen him more than three days since. "Well, I'd say you earned your keep for this," she said, ducking under an archway as she returned to Sador. The horse seemed calm as her rider quickly got onto her back before turning back to Edoras. "It's beautiful."
"There are still more additions that have been planned," Éothain said, looking rather pleased with this high praise, "yet all will be as you have asked it. King Éomer did ask me to make one small modification. However, it will not curtail the design that you have chosen."
"You're not going to tell me what it is, either, are you?" she asked suspiciously. When she received stony silence from his entire entourage, she shook her head and sighed. "Oh, I hope you know I hate surprises."
"This is not a surprise, Buffy," Éothain replied. "This would be a tradition in Rohan and one that you are quite unfamiliar with. However, all will be set as you have asked. I was planning on tents in that area there," he said, making a wide gesture with his arm. "If you insist, we will complete a solid structure. There is a quarry that would be sufficient, but perhaps a reception could be held at the Golden Hall in Meduseld."
"Considering the invitation list goes to the entire country, I'm not sure tens of thousands could fit in the Golden Hall," Buffy laughed, imagining how crammed they would all be. "I don't care if you build a roof, as long as there are tables and stuff. But I will leave that in your entirely capable hands."
"Word has also been sent to Gondor at the request of the King," Éothain reminded her. "Lady Éowyn of Ithilien has already returned word that she will be present the first week of May to complete preparations for the ceremony."
"Fabulous," Buffy said, smiling. "I can't wait to see her again, and my future brother, too."
Éothain decided for once to ignore her sentimental use of sarcasm and continued on. "There are likely many others who would wish to attend this ceremony," he said in a low voice, drawing his horse nearest hers. "You have made many friends in this land, more of higher stature than the Rohirrim."
"So you're telling me there's a chance the whole world will show up on my wedding day?" she asked suspiciously.
He shrugged, borrowing one of her well-used maneuvers. "There is always a distinct possibility."
She threw him the longest look before pushing Sador ahead of the group. He couldn't resist a deep smile of satisfaction at tousling her normally concrete persona. It was almost as fun as going into battle with her.
x-x-x
"It seems as though your appetite has returned."
Buffy glanced up at Éomer, who sat across the table from her and set down her fork, chewing slowly. It tasted like sawdust, whatever that tasted like, and it left a bitter, woody taste in her mouth. "Oh, yeah," she choked, reaching for her water glass, "it's the same as the last time they tried to poison me."
"Sampling a range of cuisine was not an attempt to kill you," Éomer said, eyeing her with sympathy as she downed her water. "I cannot imagine what was in that dish that would make you so ill."
"It didn't bother you," Buffy snapped back, grimacing as she placed her hand over her stomach, which was beginning to reel again. "Less than two weeks from our wedding day and the stupid caterers…" She was unable to finish her insult as another stabbing pain shook her small body. "Damn it."
"Easy," Éomer said, quickly rushing to her side. She attempted to swat him away, but swayed and fell into his arms.
"You must love this," she moaned. "Seeing me weak must make you feel…"
"Please do not strain yourself," he said firmly, pushing her into a sitting position. "I will find you suitable provisions. I will not let you suffer this ailment."
"Oh, my knight," she groaned as he knelt beside her. "It makes me feel so much better that you're watching out for me."
"I swore that I would never leave you," he said, reaching over and stroking her face, which was unusually flushed, her eyes bright. "I never intend to."
She managed a small smile then before her body trembled again. "Guess I got lucky."
His face bore another smile as he rose again and pressed a kiss to the top of her head. "I will ask the others to assist you to your quarters. You may find more comfort in resting."
"I've rested for the last two weeks," she whined as she steadied herself again. Éomer made his way to the other end of the table before collecting his water glass and returning to her side, pushing the glass into her hand. "Besides, people are going to start coming and I need to be there—"
"My Lord."
"Like now," she said, allowing her head to rest against his arm as Éomer turned to acknowledge the young man standing in the doorway.
"What news have you?" Éomer asked, lifting his arm to support his beloved. He felt her push off of his arm to her original position, but he knew that she would weaken from the food poisoning quickly enough.
"Lady Éowyn arrives," the man replied. Both Éomer and Buffy glanced at him curiously. "Her caravan approaches Meduseld as we speak."
They glanced at one another as the man walked out. "I will see to her," Éomer said at last.
"Don't be stupid," she said, getting to her feet and glaring at the water glass still in her hand. Turning, she managed to drink it down before slamming the goblet onto the table still laden with four fantastic dishes. "I want to see her, too."
He said nothing but steered her towards the steps, into the grand entrance hall and out the main doors. Even as his hands held her, she pulled from his grasp, swaying dangerously. Just as they descended the steps a long line of wagons suddenly stopped and the figure on an ivory horse came to a rest, reaching up to remove her periwinkle cloak. She was radiant as she dismounted, quickly extending her hand to her brother. "Éomer," she said joyfully and a moment later they embraced, brother and sister united again after more than two years of silence. "Buffy… you do not look well."
"The wedding caterers tried to kill me," she said humorlessly, allowing herself to be hugged tightly by the taller woman while giving her an awkward pat on the back. "Otherwise, I'm great."
"I do have something for you to see, but for your eyes only," she said, grasping Buffy's hands. Turning her sharp eyes to her brother, she told him politely to go assist the others. "Faramir comes in the rear, as does the party of Ithilien."
"You mean that you're not here representing Gondor?" Buffy asked, slightly surprised.
Éowyn shook her head as she pushed a blanket aside, reaching into the back of the wagon. "Certainly not, Buffy! They will arrive ere the week ends, but I had a task to attend to, and at last I have completed it." Ducking out of the wagon, she handed Buffy a long, flat basket. "This is a gift for you from Ithilien."
"I wasn't expecting a wedding present," Buffy said, grimacing again as her stomach gave an almighty lurch.
"This was not intended as such," Éowyn said, watching as Buffy placed her hand on the wagon in the attempt to steady herself. "You really do not look well."
"I'm fine," Buffy said, in a voice far sharper than she had intended. "What's in the box?"
"This was one of the gowns that you favored in Gondor," Éowyn said slowly, removing the top of the basket and setting it down so that Buffy could see inside. "I had this created for you."
Buffy was speechless, too moved to speak as she bent down, examining the contents slowly. "This is incredible," she said in a breathless voice. "But how did you know?"
"Gandalf told me a great many things before he took his leave from Ithilien," Éowyn replied, straightening and replacing the top on the basket. "You are not to tell my brother, either. This will remain in secret until your nuptials." She paused for a moment. "There are other items as well that Gandalf wished for you to have and things that he wishes for you to do, but in good time will you receive these. I do wish for you to rest, you appear ever sick."
"You should listen to her," a masculine voice spoke up as Faramir appeared at Éowyn's shoulder, eyeing Buffy in concern. "You certainly do not appear well."
"It's called food poisoning," Buffy snapped. "I'll be fine." He was the third person to question her health in five minutes, for crying out loud! Why couldn't they just leave her alone? Hadn't she proved that she could fight half-dead? This was a meager case of poisoning, hardly bereft of such attention!
"You have handled too much yourself," Éowyn persisted. "I will take over the planning for the ceremony and bid you to rest. I would rather not have Éomer order you to bed."
Buffy let out a low growl of protest as they both took one of her arms and began to march her backwards towards the stairs. "What… what do you think you're doing?" she cried out, attempting to push herself backwards. All she did was kick up a vast wave of dust that settled over them, throwing her small, recently battered body into a coughing fit.
"You are getting married in a short period of time," Faramir said, frowning as Éomer returned, looking concerned as they both released Buffy. "It would do us all a great favor if you were to not perish before that celebration."
"I'm not dying, you idiot," Buffy replied as Éomer appeared over her shoulder and gently took her arm. She shook it off and pointed a bony finger at Faramir. "I've been planning this thing since October when I got back!" Turning on Éowyn, she glared at the Lady of Ithilien. "This is all your fault."
Éowyn gave her a patient smile as she spun the lady around so Buffy could grab at a support before she collapsed face-first into the dust. "Do not assign blame where it is due. We will see to the caterers and make them pay thrice-fold for causing you ill."
"That makes me feel so much better," Buffy muttered under her breath. "Just because you two show up doesn't mean you two get to take over my show! You're not my parents."
"We know this," Éowyn said in a comforting voice. "I will see to you later. But for now," she added, gesturing to the wagons and horses now stopping before Meduseld, "we have much to attend to."
Buffy could only sigh angrily as Éomer steered her back into the Golden Hall. She left him at the entrance and made her way into her bedroom, closing the door irritably behind her. She heard the dull echo on the other end and grasped her stomach, blinking. Perhaps it would be best to let others tend to this ridiculous wedding. She had always envisioned something small, like eloping with her closest family and friends around her. Knowing that she was going to get married in front of an entire country was just too much pressure for her weakened body to handle. The fact that the entire world could show up just forced her body to sigh.
She quickly changed into her sleeping attire and slipped in between her warm sheets. Someone had placed a bedpan beneath the covers so that it was warm and relaxing as she bent her head to her pillow, exhaling deeply. Before she knew it, she had drifted off to sleep.
She was awakened some time later by Éowyn's voice telling someone outside of the room to remain there. Blinking, she first realized it was dark and then she realized that Éowyn had someone at her side. "What?" she muttered stupidly as Éowyn came forward, a large bag in her hand.
"I will ask you to remain there," Éowyn told her companion as she came forward and quickly lit a fire. Buffy pushed herself into a seated position, only to realize that the person in the room with them was none other than Elena.
"Hey, you," Buffy said as Elena ran happily into her arms. Buffy held onto her for a moment before Elena jumped onto the bed beside Buffy and sat on her knees, waiting for Éowyn, who was taking a long time to unpack her bag. "How long have I been sleeping?"
"Many hours," Elena replied for Éowyn, who was still searching for something. "King Éomer was so worried; he insisted he come, but Éowyn wouldn't let him."
"There is a reason that I would not," Éowyn said, finally stepping into the small pool of light flickering from the fireplace. "I have things to discuss with your adopted Mother, Elena."
"Can I stay here?" the little girl asked in a small voice. Éowyn nodded and Elena, looking more relaxed, tucked herself into Buffy's side as Éowyn began to place one item after another on the bed beside them before pulling a chair from the corner to their position.
"Every woman in this land requires a dowry ere she is married," Éowyn explained as Buffy leaned over and lifted a small object, shaking it slightly. With a slight smirk, Éowyn removed it and set it aside. "As you have no living family in this land and as I have taken what I needed for a dowry of my own house, Faramir has offered those belonging with his own house for yours." She bent down and selected a small box and opened it, removing a beautiful silver chain. "This came from the house of Dol Amroth, Faramir's mother's house. This is of great value to Gondor and it was his honor to have me bestow it to you. Faramir wishes that you wear it on the day of your wedding."
"I will," Buffy said, taking the chain and holding it. The necklace itself was a choker, several strands of silver drawn to a single stone. "Thank you."
"I am not the one you should be thanking," Éowyn reminded her. "The rest of these items belonged to Faramir's house. There was one item here that belonged with his brother."
"Boromir?" Buffy asked quietly. She had only heard the name a few times since she'd arrived in this land, but deduced enough that he had once been part of the Fellowship of the Ring.
"There were few items in his possession as his cares lied beyond material things," Éowyn replied solemnly as she took the box Buffy had been shaking earlier and handed it to her. Buffy opened the rectangular box and found an ornate, bejeweled dagger within. "The last of the items which I will give to you are from my house." She lifted the last box and set two items into Buffy's palm. "These were the rings my mother and father wore ere their passing. It was my mother's wish that they would be used for her own children again when they celebrated the same love my parents once shared. As you and Éomer share this love and prepare to share your life, I find it only fair that you inherit these rings."
Buffy lifted one with her fingers and studied it closely. There was an engraving on the inside. "This doesn't say anything about binding a bunch of nations together for the purpose of evil, does it?"
Éowyn gave her a long look, which Buffy returned. Éowyn knew better than to assume that the younger woman was taking this lightly but in her own ironic way Buffy was grateful to the point of being touched. "No," she said, leaning over and taking Buffy's hand. "It does not." There was a brief pause in which Buffy returned the items to the box and Éowyn collected them, placing them back into the bag. "Come, Elena… your Mother needs rest."
"Get well soon," Elena said in a small voice, quickly getting off of the bed and squeezing Buffy quickly. Éowyn remained by the door until Elena had joined her, and then both were gone.
As they left, Buffy sank against her pillows, deep in thought. She couldn't help but feel she was the luckiest woman in the world, about to be married to a man that three years ago she considered a sexist moron. She was inheriting the best sister, who was both thoughtful and wise. She was also gaining something more, something beyond rings and knives and trinkets. She was gaining a country and that responsibility alone was enough to prove that she needed to stop acting juvenile and rest. She was going to need her strength if she was going to spend the rest of her life not only guarding Rohan, but leading it as well.
x-x-x
Over the next few days, Buffy had gained her strength back. Éowyn and Faramir were doing what they could, but could never get very far. It seemed as though everyone second-guessed their decision, wanting everything to be as Buffy wanted it and not trusting two outside rulers to help. They eventually gave up this system and returned control over the planning and execution back to Buffy, who gladly took control of her own ceremony.
But the one thing that she did allow them to do was select a menu for the celebration. They were only too happy to comply, considering they were unwilling to have Buffy become ill again. This way, Éowyn could make due on her threat to torture the caterers who had nearly killed their future Queen less than a month before her ceremony. When they awakened one beautiful morning to find their stores emptied and their best papers littering the bottom floor of the stables, they soon realized their error. After apologizing profusely to Lady Éowyn, she dutifully returned their stores, but told them to begin their papers from scratch considering they had nearly killed their future Queen. It was this perhaps more than anything that prompted them into action. Éowyn asked Faramir to supervise them and though he gnashed his teeth and grunted about this being servant's work, he took the reins. He knew how important this day was to his bride because Buffy was someone very important to her. Éowyn had told him everything that she knew about the small blonde woman and Faramir was almost desperate to know more. He couldn't wait for a war so that he could fight at her side – she seemed like someone every King should have with them, even if she wore the opposite crown.
Éomer too remained in Edoras, adding his input when needed and standing by Buffy's decisions whenever they were questioned. He followed Buffy tirelessly, watching as she argued with everyone from those trimming the grasses to his Marshals, put to a secret task by himself and yet left to their own devices. It was when he saw her attempting to strangle his Third Marshal with his own flagpole did he decide to intervene, pulling the temperamental blonde away from the Marshal, who was cursing under his breath and massaging his bruised throat. This wasn't the only incident, either. When the tents for the outlanders were pitched, Buffy had a great deal of fun allowing the new foals to pass through and massacre them because she thought that the white was too drab and they were far too small for her guests. Rolling his eyes, Éomer realized he had to succumb to her. Though they still saw very differently when it came to seeing eye-to-eye, he was still enamored with her. He wouldn't have asked her to be his bride if he wasn't. The fact she had finally agreed to marry him was proof enough that she was willing to accept responsibility as his wife and, hopefully, his Queen.
By the time the week had passed word had come that others were arriving for the ceremony. Before the day was through, an Elvish horn rang clearly through the valley as a group from Rivendell arrived. Buffy was quite pleased to see both Elladan and Elrohir amongst them, along with their grandfather, the Lord Celeborn. Buffy was the first to greet them, as her rapport with the Elves was still strong. Éomer and Éowyn stood together as the Elves stopped to greet her before being allowed into Meduseld. The day after they had arrived, another Elvish delegation from the Woodland Realm came under the watchful eyes of its Prince, Legolas Greenleaf. He appeared quite calm and pensive as he greeted her, two close friends enjoying the company of the other. Éomer glared clearly at the two, remembering their close friendship and feeling as though he wanted to ground the Prince's head into a tree. Seeing them together, laughing over her food sickness as he explained his latest trip to Ithilien as being dunked into the river by several irate Dwarves was just… He knew he shouldn't be envious. After all, she had agreed to marry him and with that brought a code of how she should behave. He had Éowyn intervene and watched as his sister pityingly shook her head at him, explaining that ties with the Elves were a good thing. As Éomer had no standing relations with them, his wife had better. Apparently, they did. He watched them, grounding his teeth as Éowyn laughed beside him. This behavior of hers would truly drive him to madness ere it kept up.
The day following that, a large group of Dwarves came with Gimli, son of Glóin as well as Glóin himself. With only a few precious days until the celebration, all efforts were underway to entertain the guests, which became the responsibility of the Marshals, who grudgingly took the task as set to them by their King. Buffy was close with these men, he had told them. He didn't want his future bride to be spending time with her closest allies when she had something as large as this to plan.
But the greatest surprise came the day before the celebration. Buffy had been greeting the larger delegation from Helm's Deep when another horn sounded in the valley. Thousands of people had been passing through Edoras on their way into the valley, erecting tents and temporary villages as the city could not support such a large shift in population so quickly. Buffy turned from Erkenbrand to see a few banners displaying the symbol from Gondor swaying in the air, a white tree with seven stars. The horns blew again and Buffy felt a bright smile on her face. King Elessar was amongst those who rode. He was surrounded by his closest guard, which appeared to be more than two hundred soldiers, friends and advisors. At his side rode his wife, the Queen Evenstar, her face concealed by her cloak, the deepest shade of turquoise and plum. As she dismounted from her steed, Buffy could see that her stomach was well-rounded, speaking plainly that she would soon give birth. Touched that the King and Queen of Gondor would take it upon themselves to attend her wedding, Buffy quickly rushed to greet them.
In all, more than a thousand people had arrived during a four-day time period representing the three main races in this world. Éomer was highly relieved that Aragorn had come considering that he had no outstanding relations with either the Dwarves or the Elves. His bride would handle those relations, as she appeared to be doing as they had entered the realm, while Éomer tended to those from Gondor. A few hours later, Prince Imrahil, too, arrived with only about fifty guards, but nevertheless was eager to attend this celebration.
Buffy grew steadily quieter that evening even in the face of the larger estate dinner. As all of the leaders gathered under the stars and were served the finest of Rohirric cuisine, Buffy found herself missing the presence of her former mentor. As they sat to eat, there was the sound of another horn in the distance. Buffy glanced at Éomer questioningly over the flickering candlelight. Surely everyone they had ever met was gathered at this table.
But it did not appear so as two guards arrived and announced that Master Samwise and at least a dozen Hobbits had arrived.
"I'd forgotten about them," Buffy gasped, nearly dropping her goblet in horror.
"You must relax," Éomer said, his breath warm on her cold neck. "You have been under a great strain as it is. This was not your fault but a mere oversight."
"I could think of a few ways to relax," she reminded him snidely. She was pleased to see him choke out a small cough, straighten up, clear his throat and then return to his plate. "Will you escort Master Samwise in?"
The guard nodded and he and his counterpart left. Returning her attention to her filled pasta, she continued to eat in silence until three Hobbits were drawn into the light. They glanced at the four tables set in a square-like pattern. There were large vats of flames dancing both inside the square and at the corners, with candles alighting each table with a pure, golden glow. Buffy was surprised to see not only Sam, who seemed to have grown slimmer in his time in the Shire, but also Merry and Pippin, two Hobbits who were very close to her heart. She was now most disappointed she had forgotten to invite them!
"Welcome to our table, Master Hobbits," King Éomer said, gesturing that they take seats at their own table, which was empty save him and Buffy. "You are most welcome to this feast."
The three exchanged a quick look before ambling to the table. The two guards stepped in to assist seating the three newest guests before departing into the darkness. By now, large moths were dancing around the flames, creating flickering shadows that cast darkness upon each of their faces.
"We thank you for your invitation," Samwise said loyally as he eyed his two friends. "We only wish we could have arrived sooner."
"We came as soon as we were able," Pippin replied as he glanced eagerly at his pasta plate.
Buffy slowly set down her fork, turning to Éomer. "Did you invite them?" she asked quietly.
He turned to her, smiling slightly. She felt a flutter of something in her stomach as she turned to her left to regard the three Halflings. "It's our pleasure," she replied with a broad smile. "It's really good to see you again."
"In all honesty," Merry said with a slight frown, "we thought we would be here a bit sooner than this."
Buffy sat up straighter, suddenly feeling cold. "Sorry about the wait."
Éomer leaned over and took her hand. "We are quite delighted that you have come to join us in this celebration," he said in his deep voice.
"I only wish that Frodo could have come for this," Samwise said in a gloomy voice. "He would have been much cheered at a celebration like this ere he left this world."
Buffy was not only chilled, but she felt as though a dead weight had settled in her stomach. Setting aside her fork, she attempted to smile at the Hobbit. "I really wish they all could have been here," she agreed. "I miss them too."
Samwise gave her an encouraging smile which she returned. Turning back to her plate, she attempted to finish her meal, but felt as though she didn't need to.
"Now," Éowyn said, suddenly standing up. "We must prepare for the morning. Buffy, come with me." She waited until Buffy rose. Suddenly there were women who appeared from every angle, including Samwise's wife Rosie who came and stood beside Buffy, the top of her head barely reaching the bottom of Buffy's shoulder. "We will lie in state, ere the bell tolls." Turning, she took Buffy's arm and led her away from the group into the darkness. After she had been led away, Éomer was allowed to return to Meduseld. On horseback at full canter, it took two hours to return.
He was quite tired and fell directly asleep upon his return, but not before noticing that his large chambers would soon be expanded to include one more. He smiled at the thought of this being the last night to have this room to himself. The smile grew at the thought of sharing this room with the woman he loved, forever.
x-x-x
Morning came all too soon for many. Éowyn was amongst those that were rushing about, setting affairs in order before Buffy could awaken. When she finally was awoken, she was jostled by Arwen. Looking quite disheveled, Buffy accepted the tea and crackers Arwen handed to her, but soon sensed that the Elvish queen was in no hurry to leave her tent. Sitting up against her pillows with her food and drink, she glanced at Arwen, who looked as stunning as usual. "Something on your mind?" she asked, nibbling the corner of a cracker.
"Aragorn will not be permitted to see you ere the ceremony," Arwen replied, slipping her hand into her cloak and withdrawing a small box. Buffy felt her curiosity grow as Arwen opened the box and handed it to the Slayer. "This is amongst our gifts to you, but as you were explaining your traditions after my own nuptials I only felt it wise to give this."
"I already have something old and something new," Buffy said, glancing into the box. Her eyebrows suddenly lifted as she pulled out the object. "And now I have something borrowed." It was a sapling, barely more than a twig, resembling something close to the White Tree of Gondor. "It's… a tree?"
"Elessar found this behind the stones where the new tree was discovered," Arwen informed her. "This tree is blessed by the Eldar and should grow strong as long as your kin follow after you have departed." She paused. "I have given my passage to the Ringbearer, but my father wished for me to say to you that you are free to pass into the West. You have not diminished that gift by refuting the first offer. Should the toils of humanity bear grievous, the passage West will remain."
"Thank you," Buffy said, setting the tree back inside the box for safekeeping. "As for the voyage, well… I'm not planning on bailing… ever, if I can help it." She paused, too. "I think you made the same decision I did, to stand beside Aragorn for better or for worse."
"I have," Arwen agreed.
"Then you know that I will die as one of them," Buffy replied, gesturing to the people of Rohan as they began to gather outdoors, "as you will die as the one who loved him."
The two women exchanged a comfortable smile before Arwen stood, patting Buffy's arm. "They will soon come to tend to you."
"I'm looking forward to it," Buffy said, watching as Arwen left. She barely had time to finish her tea and the rest of her crackers when the tent flap opened and three women appeared. Buffy found herself being dragged from one tent to the next. After bathing, she was sent into a second vat of scented oils. At last, she was seen outdoors and she saw, with a shuddering gasp, the swelling population gathered at the rostrum awaiting the royal arrival. She could already see Arwen and her brothers moving easily through the vast crowds. Swallowing her nerves, she ducked inside the tent. Hearing a sound behind her, she jumped, but quickly smiled in relief as Éowyn appeared, the basket in her hands.
"Come with me," she said gently. Pulling Buffy into a corner, she helped the younger woman into her gown. It was a deep shade of green, much like the special armor she knew Éomer would wear on this day. It had the floor-length sleeves along with a train that extended back a few feet behind her upon the ground. Best of all, though, was the cut across the shoulders and the slight dip of material to her chest, creating a V-like neckline. It was a stunning dress and with the choker of Finduilas, Faramir's mother, she felt as though her ensemble was complete. Her darkening, honey-colored hair was next, but soon was tame and bound at her neck with a large clip in the shape of a butterfly. There was no need to ask where that had come from, since the Elves favored these creatures amongst others. Her suspicions were confirmed when Éowyn told her that Elladan had bestowed this clip to her, with the only regrets of its blue tint.
Now, standing in regalia before Éowyn, the older woman struggled to hold in her tears. "What?" Buffy asked, shifting uncomfortably in her material.
"Today you look like a Queen," Éowyn replied, lifting a hand to hide her trembling lips. "And today is the day that you will become one."
Buffy knew Éowyn was thinking about Buffy's resistance for years about choosing this duty. But she was pleased this woman had finally followed her heart and later today would be sisters.
Buffy struggled to hold her own smile as she glanced down at herself. "I guess I look good, huh?"
Éowyn nodded and turned away before she lost total control. "I will return when they are ready for you," she said as she left the tent.
Buffy nodded and circled the small table, her shoes crunching over the level grass that had been added to the bottom of her tent. In the distance, she could hear many voices and the sound of both laughter and cheering. It sounded as though the ceremony would begin at any moment.
It was during this moment that Buffy longed to have her mother there beside her. Or, at the very least, she wished that her sister and her friends could be there. She was happy to know that her sister and friends were being looked after. Galadriel had given her that much. Leaning over, she saw the single unlit candle on the table and glanced at the two vats of dancing flames. Taking one of the incense sticks, she turned to light the candle. Somehow, after all that she had lost, this seemed like the right thing to do.
She had lost so many in her life: her mother, her father, her friends… Gandalf, Galadriel and Elrond, three people who had made her life mean something in this world. There were also Legolas and Gimli who, despite their cultural differences remained close friends to the end. There were the Hobbits, dear creatures to her heart. There was Aragorn, so much like her in so many ways, married to a woman who was as close to looking into a mirror as she could get. And Éowyn, her dearest friend in this realm that had stood by her on so many occasions along with her husband Faramir, had given her so much of themselves that she felt lucky to know them at all. In a way, she had found her own group of friends. She wasn't alone. And that, she thought with deep satisfaction, is what made this life worth living.
Lastly, there was Éomer. She recalled when she first met him with a slight smile. He had irritated her beyond any end, and his piggish ways had certainly turned her off to him. And yet, little by little, he had won her over with his compassion, his strength and his inner fire. What had allowed her to fall in love with him though, she thought, was his heart. He had the biggest heart and through that strength, she thought, the man could move mountains. It was her greatest gift and triumph that she had won over his love. Now they would be bound together for life until death and even then, she knew, there would be something written in some destiny about their souls finding one another again. She could feel it. Even when they died, they wouldn't be parted so easily. After all, it had taken them three years to reach this point and through many trials, struggles and sacrifices, they had finally gotten here. They were finally at the end, and Buffy had found the light at the end of her tunnel. It was her own light and it gave her such radiance she felt as though she could do anything. She was not only ready to marry this man, but she was also ready to defend this country and die for Rohan.
When she first heard the voice she thought that she was dreaming. She heard her name spoken in the wind and turned to where the candlelight was now flickering. Glancing up, she saw a figure standing there, bathed in radiant light.
"Mom?" she asked softly, in disbelief. For a moment, she couldn't believe her eyes. And then the woman spoke.
"It's really you."
"Mom? Is this real?" Buffy said again, unable to really see.
"I'm right here, sweetie."
Buffy felt her chest constrict before a pained smile lit her face. "It's really you? You're really there…"
"I'm here, Buffy. I'm really here."
"But… how…"
"You should have listened to him, sweetie. He told you what you needed to know. I can't stay long. We both have places to be. And I don't think any Mother could ever be prouder than I am of you at this very moment. My little girl… my little Slayer is going to get married."
Buffy nodded her head, her smile broadening. "I am, Mom."
"I never would have seen this coming even if it hit me between the eyes," the ghostly figure said, smiling sadly. "Not only are you getting married, but you're going to be a Queen."
"I wish I could say I wasn't scared, but I guess I am," Buffy admitted, knowing how precious their time together was. She could tell that her own time was running out; she heard the sounds of harps in the background. From behind her, Éowyn appeared. She frowned as she saw the pearly figure standing across from the beautiful young woman, but didn't speak. She merely observed.
"It is okay to be afraid of what you don't know," the ghostly figure advised. "I have seen enough to understand that you love them about half as much as they love you. But don't be afraid to face what is to come. Don't be afraid to lead them. You are exactly what they need." Then, noticing a movement on the edge of the tent, she stepped back.
"Mom?" Buffy asked, blinking. She felt as though she had been taken in by some spell or enchantment. She turned as Éowyn came forward.
"What is this?" she asked in a low voice.
"This is my mother," Buffy admitted, gesturing to the pearly figure, who regarded Éowyn for a moment before speaking.
"I have seen your path," she said, tilting her head as she regarded the young woman standing before her. "There are a great many things in your future and all of them will bring you great blessings. This was your wisest choice, daughter of Rohan."
"How does she know me?" Éowyn asked uncertainly.
"I know from those who speak of you," Joyce said, smiling. She radiance seemed to dim as she turned away. "The others call for me now… I must return with them. The time has come for me to say goodbye, but I just wanted to see my daughter before…" Her voice ended as she lifted a hand to brush away tears, as bright as diamonds, from her shaded cheeks. "She's all grown up now."
"Mom, I—" Buffy started, but she couldn't think of what she wanted to say. How could she saw something, anything after all this time? She lost her mother more than five years ago. And yet somehow it seemed like decades.
"I know," Joyce said suddenly. "You have my blessings, as do you have the blessings of their house." She turned to look pointedly at Éowyn. "Your Mother wishes you well, Éowyn. She is glad that you have given her rings for their wedding today." Her radiance seemed to fade as she looked down. "My time has come," she added, glancing from one to the other. "I am so happy for you both. And I'm so very, very glad that I got to say goodbye this time. I love you, Buffy. I will always love you." And after her last words were spoken, she seemed to fade away.
Buffy and Éowyn turned to look at one another. "I was sent to collect you," Éowyn said, clearing her throat promptly.
"Of course," Buffy said, turning back to the table and blowing the candle out. Taking a deep, nervous breath, she smoothed her gown and glanced down at herself one last time. "Ready?"
Éowyn nodded and gestured forward as Buffy moved out of the tent, which had been set up down the hill from where the stage had been set. As Buffy was brought to the back, hidden from view, a great host of trumpets sounded. Glancing up, she saw that the royal guard, all in the same rich, green leather, were all holding their swords over their heads as a symbol of something-or-other, she knew. Éowyn quietly slipped away to join Faramir, who took her hand and smiled at her. His smile quickly faded when he saw the look on her face. "What is it?" he asked her quietly.
"Nothing," she replied, shaking her head.
It was the First Marshal's job to escort her to where Éomer was standing, and he was quick to do so. As soon as she joined Éomer, the host of trumpets fell silent as King Elessar stepped forward. Buffy felt her smile widen. This was yet another surprise, one of many, she decided. As they faced the people, she saw many faces that she knew. Elena stood near the stage in a dress the color of a corn husk, looking absolutely beautiful for a girl of eight. Elena smiled at her as their eyes met.
King Elessar spoke the words in both the tongue of the West and in Elvish as another older priest stood behind him, reciting the words in the tongue of Rohan as Éomer and Buffy exchanged the rings that had once belonged to Éomer's mother and father. He seemed genuinely surprised when he saw the jewelry, yet recited the well-known words and soon their hands remained joined, their vows made and their promises to love and honor forever created. Aragorn then stepped forward and asked that they face one another as he lifted a small golden goblet and held it to the light. The sunlight reflected from its smooth surface as he turned and handed it to Buffy. She took it and sipped from the full cup, her eyes watering as the bitter wine slid down her throat. She managed to hold the cup to Éomer, tears smarting in her eyes. She saw his compassionate smile and tried to warn him with her eyes that the wine was a bit more potent than usual. The moment he took a sip, she saw that he attempted not to choke as he handed the goblet back to Aragorn. She, too, saw that his eyes were watering as their hands joined once again.
"Bound are you in love, honor and loyalty till the ends of your lives," Aragorn announced to the crowd at large. A single trumpet horn rang out as two large brass-colored bowls on either side of the stage were opened and hundreds of live doves were released into the wild. As they took flight, a brisk wind suddenly filled the valley and pushed her hair from her face. At once, she smiled at the symbolism of the wind as the birds disappeared from sight.
At last, she thought, gazing at Éomer, who only had eyes for her. His look was of a man deeply taken by the one whom he loved. But this ceremony had come to an end and all of her aspirations had been met, save one. Drawing her arms around his neck, she brought his face to hers and kissed him with all of her ardor and more, her fingers careful not to knock the gleaming crown from his head. The cheer seemed to grow louder as they broke apart. He looked stunned, but she wore a knowing smirk as they separated.
Yet no one seemed in their right mind to leave. They were waiting for something else. Leaning over, Éomer took her hand and led her to another platform, raised slightly above the stage. All of the Marshals gathered onto the stage, getting down to one knee, the seven scepters clasped to their breasts. He directed her to the center before bringing her hand to his lips and pecking it. Releasing her, he stepped back as King Elessar stepped forward. He held another box in his hand, which Elena, beaming with pride, came frontward to hold. Two Captains came forward and unfurled the banner of Rohan, a large white horse on green, which rippled in the breeze.
Opening the box, Aragorn removed a crown, which glistened under the cool sunlight. Éomer instinctively reached up to touch his own. Elena withdrew the box and set it aside as Aragorn held the crown up to the people, who watched his every move carefully. "Citizens of Rohan, brothers and sisters of my blood! Here stands Merilin, stranger to and defender of Rohan, of counsel to her King and a loyal servant to you all… In this age she brings hope and wisdom and forevermore shall she be named as bound to your King eternally. Shall she enter Edoras and be named Queen and defender of all which you stand?"
There was a very loud "Yeah!" at this beckoning. Then, turning to Buffy, he poised the crown before her and asked, "Merilin, here stands the people of Rohan who have asked you to guide and lead them forever shall your kin come after. Will you accept this crown as the willful judgment of those willing to serve you and guard them, guide them and lead them?"
"Yeah," she replied, trying in vain to hold a serious expression. She added a loud, hasty "Yes!" when she saw the looks on some of their faces. The Rohirrim were acting as though she were the crazed former-advisor of their King. Those who didn't know her crinkled their brows in confusion. Those who knew her all too well just glanced at one another with the patient understanding that she was clearly the outsider.
"Then so shall it be forever," he said, and set the crown upon her head. She felt as though a great surge of power had been passed from the people onto her. With this crown on her head, she was capable of a great many things. With this crown, she was united and bound with these people, everlastingly. As he stood back to announce her, "Your Queen, Merilin, awaits her return to the city," the others rose and began cheering and crying.
Éomer came forward to grasp her arm and joined her on the platform as the Marshals rose, lifting their scepters to the pair in honor of what they had all just witnessed. Not only had King Éomer married this woman, but she had also come forward and was accepted by the people to be not only the wife of their King, but a ruling Queen. Never in her dreams would she have expected to be so warmly accepted and yet Éomer was beaming at her, as though he had been expecting this all along.
In the distance, one of Gandalf's last fireworks exploded, sending hundreds of swirling sparkles in every color imaginable above their heads. Bending down to face his new wife, he found her gazing, spellbound, at the sky. His hand reached out to touch her face as he brought it to his own. After they had separated, the people began to disperse as the coronation ceremony had at last come to an end.
x-x-x
"Let them a journey new begin, but I at last with weary feet will turn towards the lightened inn, my evening rest and sleep to meet…"
Already the reception dinner was in full swing, as the dinner was served and eaten and those still standing were moving to the song and dance of Merry and Pippin, who had been given their own table to dance upon. Buffy couldn't believe her good fortune; she really had missed these two. She leaned against Éomer, near exhaustion but still radiant as she cheered the Hobbits on. She was far from the only one.
Dinner had been extravagant and for once agreed with her system. The company hadn't been half bad, either. She had been greeted by many and the table at the rear of the hall had been rapidly filling with parcels to be opened the following day. Faramir, surprisingly, had been the one to give the toast, standing up and commanding the automatic respect of those around him as Prince of Ithilien. His toast had been simple, a tribute to the journey that laid before them, wrought with danger, solidified by loyalty, three peoples bound together forever under the strength of their friendship. "To the journey," he had said, lifting his goblet.
"To the journey," the others replied, lifting their own glasses. It really had been a beautiful speech.
Since there was enough mulled mead and wine to supply a medium-sized army, those in attendance at the affair were quickly intoxicated. Their steps grew more and more erratic. She glanced to her right and saw Éowyn applauding while Faramir whispered something to her. On Éomer's left, Aragorn and Arwen were deep in conversation with another group of humans on the other side of them. Feeling quite relaxed and sleepy, she turned to meet Éomer's gaze. He held it for a long while before bending his head to touch hers. She gave him a tired smile before turning away to drain the last of her wine. The time had come for them to leave and they both knew it.
He rose first, taking her hand and assisting her over the bench, the perfect chivalrous gentleman. The music came to an end and the two Hobbits stopped dancing in mid-sentence, turning to the King and Queen of the land. All lifted their cups in farewell as they left the tent and headed into the cold night.
The first bit of nightly air sent a chill down Buffy's spine as she stepped outside. She was only alone for a minute before a cloak was set over her shoulders and wrapped around her form. A masculine arm wound its way around her shoulders and remained there, pulling her back into a warm body. She could feel her own respond to the touch, but knew that those inside could still see them from the gaps within the largest tent. "We should go," she said, gently detaching his arm.
"This day has been tiring," he agreed, coming to step beside her.
"It's nothing compared to what it's going to be like," she said with a teasing smile, glancing at him. His eyes widened slightly as the tent opened behind them.
"You seemed to slip away quite quickly," Éowyn said in a joking voice.
"We have a much better place to be," Buffy said apologetically as Éomer took her arm from behind.
"But your guests—" Éowyn protested.
"They'll be there in the morning, too," Buffy replied slyly. "Besides, tonight is for us."
Éowyn attempted to hold her laughter at the look on Éomer's face. The poor man wasn't going to know what hit him. "Enjoy your evening," she managed to gasp out.
"Don't worry, you can count on it," Buffy said with a bright smile as she took Éomer's arm and pulled him away.
Éowyn realized she was laughing so hard there was a tight stitch in her side. She was joined a moment later by her own husband, who appeared at her shoulder, feigning concern. "It does not appear we will need to worry for their safety this eve," she choked, clutching her abdomen.
"I do not believe we will ever have to worry about their safety," Faramir replied fervently. "They appear to have enough power for an entire army."
Éowyn's laughter died out as she realized that her husband spoke the truth. "They will be a force to reckon with."
"If anyone dares to tread upon their land," Faramir agreed, his arms wrapping around Éowyn's slim waist. "Shall we return?"
She tilted her head, considering his offer. "I would prefer that we spend some time alone as well."
Faramir smiled as he bent his head to his wife's hair, inhaling the deep scent of lavender. "I have no objections with that," he replied.
Deep in the darkness, Buffy found her tent as Éomer finally caught up with her, panting. "The energy you must possess," he said breathlessly as he paused. "Surely you must grow tired."
"The way I look at it, the night's still young," she replied with that same silly smile. "Besides, you'll just have to spend the rest of your life figuring me out."
"That is one challenge I look forward to," he replied, a blazing look in his face.
"You're so going to lose," she smirked, disappearing between the tents. He stood behind, shaking his head, trying to figure out what he had gotten himself into. Had he really asked for this? At least, in Rohan, things would never be dull…
x-x-x-x
Next and last, a short epilogue.