Author: Fianna

Rating: R for Violence

Disclaimer: Tolkien and his estate owns all rights to the canon characters, I embellish with only love as a reward, with hope that I carry on what Jrr began…

Chapter 15: Schemes of Conspiracy

Rolfe stared across the windswept plain with a deep sense of misgiving, leaning back into his saddle to ease his legs. The long ride across the Eastfold had been hurried and fraught with too many skirmishes with orcs to be considered normal and his mind sped in a multitude of directions for the cause but came back each time to the same conclusion.

He dismounted, crouching down to inspect the footprints at his feet. What chances were there that the orcs would harry the lands of Rohan so reminiscent of the war fought too short a time ago? Who led these creatures? The orcs were not clever enough to create the campaign of terror that now spread over plains of the horsemen. Someone had designs on the lands of the Mark and Rolfe knew Eomer's concern was well placed. Renny and he had ridden far along the border and the resulting random skirmishes only solidified Rolfe's conclusions.

Who had the audacity as well as the strength of mind to control the wretched orcs? At the end of the war, many had died in the cataclysm of Mount Doom's fall, but a few still lingered, hiding from the light and those who sought to finish them off. But someone, someone had lured the creatures into his fold and they once again took brief stabs at the outlying lands of Rohan. But to say who with certainty was not yet in Eomer's grasp. Rolfe had a sense that the answer lay close at hand.

Renny rode up behind him, his brother dismounting in a flurry of woolen cloak, his face flushed from the cold bite of the wind. He bent down beside Rolfe, removing his leather gauntlets to brush the soil aside at their feet.

"I see another track for yet another quarry. How many have we fought this week? Too many Rolfe, I don't like it."

Rolfe rose slowly, slapping his gloves absently in his hand. "I agree. But I don't know what more to do. We head back to Edoras and I have not the answers Eomer wants."

Renny stood up, glancing at the milling horsemen behind him. "The attacks grow bolder, even though the orcs are few and do little damage. It's the boldness that concerns me. The orcs have not been this organized since the war." Rolfe grimaced and turned to his horse, gathering the reins to mount with a creak of leather armor. The horse sneezed and shifted slightly but did not move. Renny stared up at the tall marshal with a troubled frown. "We need more evidence of who controls them, Rolfe."

"I know, Renny. We shall track down this last hoard of orcs, perhaps we can keep one alive long enough for information."

Renny nodded and mounted swiftly, pulling his lance from the sheath on his saddle. "Alive? Good thought, but luck be with you, brother. Keeping an orc alive and willing to talk shall be a trick indeed."

Willem sipped his drink, the steam obscuring his gaze for a moment while Mairen pulled up the heavy quilt, nearly ducking under the blanket. She had no desire for the conversation she imagined her brother wanted to discuss. What more was there? She had accepted a proposal, and that would be the end of it, would it not?

"Mairen, sit up that we may talk. This is important."

She sighed and threw off the blanket and then shivering, drew it back around her shoulders as she took the mug Willem handed her. "All right, what is so important that you come here nearly before dawn?"

"I want you to tell Eomer that you can't do this."

She glanced up, meeting his blue eyes with surprise. "I cannot, I have given my word."

Willem stared at her for a minute, his gaze searching hers. "How can you do it? How can you deny your feelings?"

She handed him back the mug and crawled out of the bed, hugging the quilt tightly around her shoulders. "Why do we go over and over this? For the past year I have found my very sanity challenged and I finally feel like I have some control of my own life. My heart is troubled and yet I feel this is what I must do. Do not make it any harder than it is, Willem, I beg you."

Willem rose and wrapped his arms around her, his chin resting gently on her shoulders. "I only want you to be happy, Mairen. You lie to yourself as well as to all of us to believe you can live here again as you once did. What is so frightening about the elf that you would forsake him? Have you no thought to his feelings?"

The tightness that welled into her throat and the flush of dismay was overwhelming but Mairen struggled to hold the emotions in check. "I don't know for sure what he feels for me. Do you not think if he cared he would have written at least? I have heard nothing from him."

"Do you have so little faith in him and his heart?" Willem accused softly, holding her away from him to see her face. "Have you contacted him? Whose pride is stronger here?"

She couldn't answer. If she did then she would have to admit she had accepted Eomer's decision only because her mind had been blank with shock. Had she had the sense of mind to speak at once, she might not be in this position. And she knew that was exactly why Willem was pushing her.

Willem sighed and grasped her arms to turn her toward him. "So you shall agree to this proposal out of sheer stubbornness? Rolfe has said little to me of it. I fear my heart is torn between loyalty to you and to the King. I would take you away if it is what you would do? I would take you to Lórien if your heart wished it."

She smiled faintly, touched that he was so loyal. Willem's blue eyes searched hers for a long moment and she finally dropped her eyes. Her course was chosen, she would not make a fool of Eomer. He had told her she could not go back once she had agreed. She really had no other choice. "I know, but I must stand by my decision."

The Rohan warrior sighed deeply and he hugged her tightly. "I have word this morning that Eomer received a missive last night. The day draws nigh, Mairen. Are you sure?"

She clutched his tunic, resting her head against his chest. A tough man, willing to forsake his own happiness for her, she did not deserve such loyalty. "Aye, I am sure."

Rolfe sheathed the heavy sword at his hip, his face bearing no trace of concern as he strode away from the brightly burning mound of orcs. No answers, nothing had been forthcoming from the wretched creature they'd wounded but did not kill. His fury was tamped down tightly as he drew further from the stench of the demised orcs, frustrated. He gathering his stallion's reins but did not mount, but rather pulled him further away from the fire to a low hill a short distance from the flames.

He crouched, thankful the moon was bright enough to illuminate the ground as he sketched carefully with a stick. Renny moved alongside with two more of his men and they squatted as Rolfe drew a faint image of the realm of Rohan in the sandy soil.

He pointed with the twig, glancing up at Renny. "Here, we have been harried on these borders, with most lying here and here." He drew a line connecting the areas. "The mountains lie along the west behind Edoras, the great river to our east. The bulk of the attacks lie along the borders of Gondor and most are within the Eastfold."

Renny poked gently in the dirt. "The lands of Lórien lie to the north, with Fangorn here." He marked an x in the dirt. "Those lands have seen little attacks, guarded by Lórien elves and the trees of Fangorn, few orcs dare to enter there."

Rolfe nodded. "I agree. We have been harried by orcs but are they from Mordor? Those lands are nearly decimated and the few that remain would hardly have had the time to regroup."

Renny picked up a stone at his feet, rubbing it absently with a slight frown. "So our concern lies within our borders or that of Gondor?"

Rolfe stared at the map at their feet. "Aragorn is an ally I would think hardly interested in creating strife, indeed, Eomer and he have spoken much regarding these attacks. Faramir arrived just as we left with several letters from the Gondor king, and news of attacks even there. I am certain we must look closer, perhaps consider our own history and those within our realm who have held some dissatisfaction with the Eomer's ascension to King. I believe there are a few who may have coveted the throne of Rohan."

Renny scowled. "Then you must believe it to be Harad! Just months past he pressed Eomer harshly to relinquish the seat. He believes it should have gone to one of the ruling minor Horse Lords beneath Theoden, not to the nephew of the King." Renny threw the stone angrily. "He assumes much and has much more audacity than is warranted. I would have liked to have thrown him out of the hall. Mairen stood him upon his ear, fool that he is, and he did not like her at all. I fear she has a dangerous enemy in that one."

"To be sure," Rolfe agreed. "I know that his departure was not in good humor. His arguments regarding our borders were not accepted as he wished. He holds a grudge against Mairen. But the Anorien is a minor lord. I cannot believe he would have the strength to garner the loyalty of such creatures as the orcs."

Renny bounced another stone in his hand, staring at the map. "The stronghold of Isenguard now lies empty. The wargs and the orcs that controlled them run free among the land and we've had reports of them amid the east as well. Perhaps the evil that was Sauron has yet some hold on those of Middle Earth. Harad is far too pompous in my mind; his greed for what he seeks to covet is rash, edging upon madness."

Rolfe rose suddenly to his feet, turning swiftly with a hand on the sword at his hip. Renny stood up slowly and caught the Rohirran marshal's arm with a soft warning as Rolfe stiffened with indignation.

"I must reprimand my guards for sleeping on watch," the Rohirran marshal snarled softly to the darkness outside the glow of the flames.

The grey-elf appeared, aptly named amid the shadows, visible only when he pulled back the shroud of hood from over his head. Haldir's lips curved slightly and another elf appeared at his side out of the darkness. "Your guards have keen eyes. Do not fault them for not seeing those that do not wish to be seen." Haldir stepped further into the glow of the fire. "The glare lights up the night for leagues."

Rolfe's eyes narrowed. "A good warning for those who think to harry the lands of Rohan. Here they will only find death."

Haldir glanced at the fire and then bowed his head slightly. "Indeed. I would think those who see it would agree."

"What do you want?" Rolfe asked rudely.

Haldir arched a dark brow. "I think you already know what I want."

Renny sighed, gripping Rolfe's hand tightly as it jerked on his sword. He nodded at the tall March Warden curiously. "Haldir, it is good to see you. How many are with you?"

Haldir glanced at the elf at his side. "Twenty. We ride to Edoras."

Rolfe frowned. "Ride? Where are your horses?"

The elf waved into the darkness. "Two leagues back. We were not sure just who was burning, all though I suspected the truth. But I drew closer hoping to find one of Mairen's brothers among the marshals of the Mark."

Renny glanced at Rolfe with a faint frown. "Why?"

The March Warden took several steps closer to Rolfe, eyeing the tall Rohirran warrior with a gaze that glittered like the ice that clogged the streams of the plain. Rolfe felt the coldness of the gaze sweep over him. He pulled his hand from beneath Renny's restraining grip and pointed at the stern elf before him.

"It has been agreed to."

"Indeed. I know this. But Mairen does not. I find this particularly disturbing, Rolfe. Why would Mairen not know of our agreement?"

Rolfe clenched his jaw, trying to hide his surprise. How had the elf found out? "Mairen knows what she needs to know. I have not told her because she would probably have not agreed to your proposal. We did it for you."

Haldir laughed harshly, with no humor. "For me? You would create more pain for a sister who has dealt with far too much?"

Rolfe eyed the elf haughtily, unconsciously matching Haldir's expression. Renny looked at both and then sighed loudly, stepping in between the two adversaries. "Here now, Haldir. You do not know our sister as we do. Mairen is as stubborn as they come. Rolfe is right when he said it was for you that he and King Eomer left her to her own ideas. You have to agree she probably would have refused?"

Haldir sent a withering glance toward Renny and the Rohan warrior shifted uneasily. "I did not send the proposal to her. I know well her mind, as I believe I do her heart. She has yet to balance them."

Rolfe ran a hand over his eyes. Haldir's words were too much like Gamling's. He knew too well what Mairen refused to see. And he knew he had to overcome his own reservations, for her sake, in regards to Haldir. "I know, Haldir. But trust me that this will not hurt her as you think. We have grown up together, Mairen can handle this. It will make it easier in the end. You will see."

Haldir's brows drew together. "Easier? For you perhaps."

Rolfe took a deep breath. The elf did not understand Mairen as they did. "I can only ask you to trust me."

Haldir's eyes glittered sharply. "I can do no more, for she is not among you. The day of her wedding draws nigh. Will you spend it fighting on the plain?"

Rolfe took a step forward, shaking off Renny's restraining hand again. "Nay. I will be there. I will be the one to give her away, do not doubt it. We ride to Edoras, but found the orcs in our path. Do you not find it curious the creatures plague even the borders of Lórien? Although fewer, they are still far more than acceptable."

Haldir's eyes hardened his face a stony mask as he looked from one brother to the other. "The orcs have found someone to lead them yet again. We have decided this long ago."

Rolfe watched the elf closely. Would Haldir know more, had he sent his own patrols out amid the land for clues? The March warden was fiercely protective of the woodsy realm in which the elves lingered. Renny's question drew him from his thoughts as Haldir's eyes gleamed fiercely. The elf knew something and Rolfe decided that he was not pleased with his knowledge.

"We are concerned as to whom it may be."

Haldir lifted a hand and signaled with a minute flick of his fingers. The elf at his side stepped back into the shadows only to reappear in a moment with two more elves. They came forward and then bowed to Haldir with a touch to their hearts.

"My wardens have just come from your southern borders and a skirmish there two days ago. An orc gave them information that you might find interesting."

Rolfe and Renny glanced at each other in amazement. "And this news?"

Haldir spoke to the elves in their tongue for a moment and then turned to Rolfe. "Your adversary has ridden from the beyond the Eastfold. If we linger too long we shall arrive too late to aid those he intends to harm. Edoras lies in his sight."

Renny gripped his sword hilt tightly. "The Valar take him, he won't get away with this."

Rolfe stepped in front of Haldir gripping the elf's tunic in his hand. "Is it Harad? What more have you learned?" He winced as Haldir's hand closed over his own, forcing him to relinquish his grip.

Haldir eyed Rolfe with a scowl, revealing much more emotion than Rolfe had ever seen him allow. "Aye, it is Harad and Mairen believes him her suitor. His men ride swiftly and it bodes ill for those who think him still a friend. Your king is vulnerable."

Rolfe swore beneath his breath and turned swiftly to his horse. "Eomer has his own reservations about Harad. He will not be ambushed even in his own city. But you are right, we must ride quickly. To Horse!" the Rohirran called loudly. Haldir stepped back, his gaze on the two Rohirrim men.

"I will meet you in Edoras."

Rolfe glanced at Renny and then reached out a hand to Haldir. "We will do better to arrive together. Gather your elves and we will ride to where the rest of your people wait."

Haldir's gaze met Rolfe's for a long second and then he gripped Rolfe's hand, mounting the Rohan stallion quickly behind Rolfe. The other elves followed, riding pillion behind the Rohirrim and the horses charged onto the plain, leaving behind the tell-tale glow of warning.

Mairen rode alongside her brother, basking in the watery sunshine that glimmered through the thin clouds skimming across the sky, pushed overhead by the brisk wind that pulled at her cloak and laid the dry grasses flat in front of her. She gripped Epona tightly with her knees, using her free hand to pull the strands of hair from her face as she gripped her lance with the other.

The sense of danger ahead was an icy chill raising the hair on her neck. She hadn't felt right since waking this morning and agreeing with Willem to ride with him on patrol. They were not far from Edoras, merely sweeping the nearby hills for orcs. The creatures had grown bolder and the scouts had found signs that the wretched things had dared to come within a league of the Rohan city.

Far too close for Eomer's comfort and so Willem and Mairen were among the thirty marshals now riding among the low hills before the palisades of Edoras. So far they had found nothing, no tracks of anything untoward, but Mairen's newly felt elvish sense flashed a warning too strong for her to ignore.

Willem glanced at her beside him, his blue eyes flashing in the sunlight, his grin infectious as he reined his stallion to a stop, signaling the rest of the men to head back. He waited until the last horseman had passed and then leaned over the pommel to study her with a frown.

"What is it?" he asked, while his horse pranced nervously at being left behind.

Mairen scanned the land around them apprehensively, her fingers itching on the lance. "I don't know. Something is not right, but I can't place it."

Willem leaned back in the saddle and looked around. "We've found no traces of Orcs within a league. They can't hide their tracks like the elves."

Mairen stared at the ground. "No, they cannot. I don't think it is the orcs that trouble me, Willem." She turned to stare at the distant city, watching the last of their patrol disappear beneath the gates. "Someone is coming. They will be here soon."

Willem urged his horse forward into a trot, reaching out to pull Epona's bridle forward with him. "I am not used to your new foresight, but that is not to say I don't believe you either." He released the bridle when Mairen pulled back, and glanced over his shoulder. "Rolfe is due back soon. We should head back. Tomorrow is a big day for you."

Mairen bit her lip; his words sent a rush of dismay through her but also something else. Was it only misgiving, despair at her choice to go ahead with the marriage, or something else entirely? She wished she had Celeborn or even Haldir to question; she was not sure just what she felt. But she would not contact either one. Whatever it was, she felt suddenly the need to get back within the city. She kicked Epona and the horse leaped forward, galloping past Willem she flew toward Edoras with desperate intent.

The horses were snorting as Mairen rode through the gate, and Willem, only a few paces behind her ducked unconsciously as he always did through the low door of the palisade. He waved to Eamon who stood on the walkway overhead, his band holding guard duty for the day. Eamon returned the salute with a frown, his eyes following their sister as she made her way ahead of him. Willem had found his brother oddly avoiding both of them of late and Willem wondered suddenly if it had anything to do with Eomer's decree of her marriage. Did his brother know more? Willem cursed softly for not thinking of it sooner.

Rolfe and Renny had conveniently left on patrol, Eamon was taking a sudden liking for guard duty, and all just days after Mairen had told him of Eomer's arrangements for her. Horse entrails, the whole affair gave him a fierce headache. How she could stoop to marry a sop like Harad, whether Eomer wished it or not, had shocked him. He seemed to be the only one who saw the longing so blatant in her eyes, the slow depression that stole her laughter.

Willem urged his stallion up the steep road with another curse, vowing to catch his elusive brother after meeting with Eomer. Willem drew up at the stables, watching Mairen as she sat stiffly on her horse. He was aware that her elvish heritage was becoming stronger everyday, and more than once had spoken of something that would happen only a moment later. Her sense of foresight, or whatever it was made him slightly nervous. She stopped near the stables and slid off Epona and Willem followed behind, drawing his roan into the dimly lit stables to his stall.

"How soon?" he asked as he pulled the saddle from his horse. Mairen brushed Epona her gaze distant as she stroked the mare methodically.

"They will be here soon, Willem, not more than a couple of hours."

Willem nodded slightly, wondering just how he'd breach the news to Eomer without sounding slightly mad. But perhaps Eomer understood more than he just what changes had occurred in the slim Rohan warrior. At any rate, the King needed to be warned, about whatever it was.

Eomer sat back, his dark eyes glinting slightly as Willem bowed before him. Mairen stood behind, her eyes still vaguely distant as if she watched something within her mind. The Rohirran King stared at Mairen curiously as Willem straightened.

"Any tracks?"

"Nay, the plain seems clear." Willem turned to Mairen, unsure of how to continue when she blinked and then stiffened as the doors to the hall flew open and Gamling hurried inside. The captain strode rapidly toward Eomer and Faramir drew near from where he'd been sitting in the shadows with Eowyn. Mairen frowned and stepped aside as Gamling knelt for a moment before the king. The man's dour expression seemed grimmer than usual as he gripped the sword at his hip.

"Rolfe's patrol has been sighted, and not far behind a large band, Anorien from the looks of them."

Eomer's lips tightened and he gestured toward Mairen. "From your expression you knew this as well? You sensed something?"

She frowned, closing her eyes for a moment. "There were no signs of orcs as Willem said, but I also knew someone was approaching, just not who." She opened her eyes to stare hard at the Rohan King. "I should have predicted it to be Harad. I assume he is expected, so why I sense some danger from him seems odd." She closed her eyes suddenly, and Gamling reached out swiftly as she wavered slightly. "I have felt odd all morning, my lord. I don't know why, but peril approaches swiftly."

Eomer lifted a brow, but Mairen missed it, having her eyes still closed as she continued. "There are others who ride near." She rubbed her forehead suddenly and then her eyes flew open. "Elves!"

Eomer's face was a mask of indifference. "And do you feel the elves ride with evil intent?"

"Of course not."

Eomer coughed and Willem watched him closely. The Rohan king seemed to be struggling with his expression but then Eomer seemed to gather himself and smoothed his fingers over his lips. "So then the danger lies indeed with the Anorien approach." He gestured to Gamling. "How far are they?"

Gamling shrugged. "Perhaps an hour's ride, they bring a large force. I do not like it, my lord."

Eomer's lips curved slightly. "Nor do I, Gamling." The Rohan King glanced at Faramir. "I believe Harad and his men are friends of yours?"

Faramir shook his head with a faint grin. "Friends? Aye, we need more friends like those Harad brings. Word is not good from his quarter."

Gamling was frowning, his dislike of the man clearly imprinted on his expression and Willem glanced between the stalwart captain and the king with a curious gaze. More was at work here and Willem didn't know what to make of it. Was not Harad expected?

"I believe Harad thinks to do more than just parley this visit," Eomer declared softly, rising to his feet. "Gamling, ready the men, but no show of arms. I do not want Harad to think we are prepared for him."

Mairen seemed confused as Gamling nodded and turned quickly to depart, her eyes wide. Willem noticed Eowyn had moved from the tables in the shadows to stand beside Faramir and she was biting her lip. Something definitely was going on. Mairen turned toward the King, reaching out to grip his sleeve as he turned.

"My lord, I am confused. Is not Lord Harad supposed to be here tomorrow?"

Eomer patted Mairen's hand, and then pushed back the heavy velvet cloak he wore off his shoulder. "Harad?" The Rohirran marshal grinned faintly. "I did not expect the Anorien, Mairen." Eomer nodded slightly and swept past her toward his personal quarters.

Mairen's hand hung in the air for a minute while her face suddenly flushed with color. She sent a desperate look at Willem. "I don't understand. Tomorrow is my . . ." she took a deep breath and began again. "My wedding, I thought Harad . . ." She whirled toward Faramir who held up his hands, and then stared at Eowyn. They shook their heads and Faramir followed Eomer into his rooms.

"Willem!"

Willem drew closer as Mairen spun toward him. She clenched her fists angrily and Willem, well aware that Mairen's temper was still Rohirran gripped her arms gently.

"Have patience, Mairen. I don't understand either. I thought maybe Eamon knows more, he's been avoiding us for weeks."

Mairen's chin rose several inches and she stalked toward the door muttering under her breath. Elvish curses Willem was sure, as he followed slowly behind.

Eomer entered his chambers and shut the door firmly after Faramir with a frown. "We don't have much time. I believe the end of the attacks will soon be at hand."

Faramir strode to a tall window to peer out."But how do you know it is Harad that controls these attacks. They are widespread over the lands of Rohan and beyond. Even Gondor has fought skirmishes amid its borders."

Eomer opened a cabinet and drew out his leather armor, and began to buckle on the breast plate. "Aragorn and I have debated it often. With the news you have brought as well the information from the outer borders and with Rolfe's report, I am sure I will find much of my problem lies in a line that connects with Anorien."

Faramir frowned, rubbing his hand over his chin. "Anorien has been a minor state of Rohan for years. I know he has harbored great resentment toward your rule. Do you believe it enough to consider destroying his people? I cannot believe him so cruel."

Eomer paused and turned to face Faramir. "We have had dealings with the Anorien for years. He has ever been a burr in Théoden's saddle. I have not liked the man since I was but a lad and my father marshal of the mark. I still harbor a deep sense that he may have had some hand in my father's death. The orc ambush was well orchestrated, as was the one that killed Theodred. I fear we may have ignored the rat in our midst, believing it more the work of Saruman. Perhaps we have been blind."

Eomer drew out his sword belt and continued. "If Harad thinks that his small ploys have not been noticed then he will become careless. As I think he just has." He finished buckling on his sword and turned toward Faramir. "Come, do you not understand? Harad has had designs on the lands of the Mark for years. He also has a malevolent eye on a fair warrior of my realm. He disliked Mairen's interference and I, knowing how he is, knew he would stew upon it until all else flew from his mind."

Faramir turned from the window and strode quickly to Eomer, clutching the king's shoulder. "His last wife it is said died a horrible death, burned in an accidental fire. You would put Mairen in such danger?"

Eomer gripped Faramir's arm. "If anyone could handle the man it is she, but no, I have no intention of allowing her near him. She is but part of the bait I have set, word that the maid marries was sent to all the outer realms. There will be others here to defend her honor, do not doubt it. Haldir will arrive, as he seems to, at the last moment. Mairen shall have more than her share of protectors."

Faramir stepped back as Eomer strode to the door. "But Mairen doesn't know it is Haldir that she is to marry."

Eomer glanced over his shoulder. "No, she didn't, until a few moments ago if she thinks clearly."

Mairen stood in the open doorway of the hall dumbstruck. It couldn't be true. There was no way the Valar could be both so cruel and so mischievous. But of course it was so like them to twist what her heart desired so strongly and tempt her with the knowledge that her nightmare was not what she thought. She turned to stare at the closed door to Eomer's quarters, but then Willem gripped her elbow, drawing her away from the doorway.

"You look like you've seen a ghost."

She stopped, pausing at the wide steps that led down to the street, wind fluttering her hair wildly. Her whole body seemed awash with tension, conflicting feelings and senses made her weak with the onslaught. Waves of warning washed over her as she stared out past the walls of the city but the hills hid anyone approaching until the last valley below them. Her stomach was in knots from apprehension, a growing sense of wild hope as well as anger. They had deceived her, all of them. It was almost too much to bear, her mind swam with so many feelings and she closed her eyes, ignoring Willem's repeated questions in an attempt to gain control of her thoughts.

"Mairen, answer me!"

She shuddered, meeting Willem's concerned gaze dazedly. "What, Willem? I'm sorry."

He hissed in a quick breath, his fingers digging into her arms as shouts of warning rose from the lower palisades. The gates were swiftly drawn open and Rolfe and his men rode inside the city, along with the elves she had sensed. She drew aside the hair covering her eyes as they galloped up the hill, scattering men and women alike in their haste, to dismount in front of the steps. Behind her the doors to the great hall opened and Eomer stepped outside.

Galadriel stared at the flickering shadowy surface of the mirror, the water now smooth as the images faded. She held the urn tightly to her chest, indecision- a rare occurrence for the Lady of Light, marking her face. A soft whisper behind her made her turn slowly, aware of the advancing approach of Celeborn as he made his way down the stone stairs into the grotto.

"You have seen something," Celeborn noted as he paused to study her.

Galadriel cast a brief glance at the mirror and then stepped aside to set the silver carafe in its place. "Haldir arrives in Edoras amid a Rohirran cavalry. Danger surrounds them, a battle to come."

Celeborn frowned, his gaze searching Galadriel's. "Within the stronghold of Edoras? It would seem unlikely."

Galadriel turned back to the mirror, nearly brushing the water with her fingertips as if to bring back the image. "Unlikely, but my mind sees that it will be. A rider, thought to be a friend shall enter the gates, but his heart holds deceit and evil. He has been swayed by someone, driven to this by insanity."

Celeborn gripped her waist as she stepped back unsteadily.

"The shadow has not left this land entirely," she continued with a deep breath. "The evil that was Sauron still lies within many minds. I fear this one has been led astray with visions of great power that are not his to grasp."

Celeborn drew her to a low stone bench. "We cannot stop this, it is too late," he said softly.

Galadriel closed her eyes, seeing the vision still within her mind. "Haldir is in the midst of this danger as is Mairen. She is tied to the shadow creature, her ascension into the elvish world has enflamed this man's hatred. He seeks to destroy not only Eomer but the Rohan maid as well. I fear Haldir will not understand the danger to them both."

Celeborn smiled and drew Galadriel's face toward him with gentle fingers on her cheek. "Our March warden is attuned to many things, including the Rohan warrior elf. She will sense the danger, as he will. Do not fear for them."

Galadriel drew closer to Celeborn and rested her head on his shoulder. "I am tired, Celeborn. My mirror shows me less and less and what I see I dare not believe at times. My powers are fading; our world is drawing to a close."

Celeborn wrapped an arm around her tightly. "Haldir will be fine. The valar will protect him."

The crowd of Rohan warriors and villagers gathered rapidly at the base of Meduseld and Rolfe leaped up the steps as Mairen flew down ducking past her brother as he reached for her. She met Haldir at the bottom step, eyes level as she tried to catch her suddenly short breath. The March Warden touched his brow, dipping his head as he held her gaze. He wore a deep gold tunic, perhaps the one he'd worn the night of the festival, and the red cloak from Helm's deep. She stared at it with a sense of foreboding but drew her gaze back to his quickly.

"How dare you arrive in Edoras today? What are you doing here?"

Haldir's glance moved past Mairen to Rolfe. "Why should I not be here?"

Had he known all along that she wasn't marrying Harad? Would he not have told her? The anger that had simmered deep inside flared in her mind and she clenched her hands at her sides, wanting suddenly to erase the impassive expression Haldir had drawn over his face. "I don't want you here."

Haldir's response was only an arched brow, and Mairen lashed out, her hand only inches from his cheek when he caught her wrist, his gaze suddenly glittering with warning. "I have no time to explain or to spar with you." Haldir glared at Rolfe as the Rohan marshal pushed between them.

"Mairen, we've no time for such things. You need to get inside."

Willem met Rolfe at the steps and they spoke quickly as Mairen gaped at her brother. Never had he demanded she hide from battle. She'd always been included as one of his men. She gripped the elvish sword at her hip, clamping her lips tight as he turned back toward her.

"I am not going to hide, Rolfe. How dare you even ask me to go inside?"

Warnings were shouted from the palisade walls and Rolfe gripped her shoulders, shaking her slightly. "Harad is coming, Mairen. I want you out of the way."

She blinked as the sense of menace grew overwhelming suddenly and the gathered crowd turned as the gates were opened again and Harad and his men rode inside the city. Armed, with weapons flashing in the sun, the Anorien warriors were a fierce lot of surly men and they rode swiftly through the streets of Edoras as Mairen struggled to focus her thoughts. "They bring evil into this city. It surrounds them," she whispered absently, and then shook her head to clear it.

Rolfe nodded, pushing Mairen toward Haldir. "Get her out of sight. The Anoriens don't like her."

Haldir pulled Mairen into the crowd with a crushing grip on her wrist. She gasped as he pushed aside people, ignoring their protests and finally pulled her near a building as the Anoriens thundered up the hill toward Meduseld.

"You knew," Mairen hissed, twisting her wrist but he would not let go.

Haldir pushed her against the wall, shielding her from view with his body. "Knew what, Mairen?" He braced his hand on the wall behind her, watching over his shoulder distractedly.

She pounded her fist on his chest, earning a soft grunt as he captured her hand. "That I was not to marry Harad!"

"Aye." His eyes flickered to her, emotionless. He drew tightly against her as several of the Rohirran marshals hurried past them. Haldir turned back to her, pressing her against the wall. "Who are you to marry, Mairen?" he murmured as his eyes searched her face.

Mairen closed her eyes. "You know exactly who it is to be." The crowd had grown larger as the warriors rode into the city, and Mairen could see many were armed but held back within the crowd. Several elves moved into view, their cloaks shifting in the wind and they almost seemed to disappear within the people standing around them.

Haldir's breath warmed her cheek, his hair as the wind caught it tickling the sensitive skin on her neck. "I want to hear you say it. Or do you not yet know?"

Her eyes flew open to meet the steely grey eyes of the elf. Haldir bent closer lifting her hand to press his lips against the inside of her wrist. "I did not mean to hurt you," he said, but what exactly he meant she was not sure. Rumil appeared suddenly with his bow in his hand, and Haldir muttered a soft curse as Rumil whispered into his ear. Haldir gripped her chin with a stern glitter in his eyes. "Stay out of sight, Mairen. The Anorien means you harm." The elves whirled, disappearing swiftly into the crowd as the Anoriens halted before the stone steps, banners snapping in the wind. The crowd grew quiet as Harad lifted his hand to speak. Mairen stepped from behind the building, ignoring Haldir's command.

Eomer and Faramir slowly descended the windswept steps of the hall and Eomer paused on the last step to nod a greeting to the Anorien lord. Eomer's dark eyes were narrowed against the bright sunlight, his mouth curved in a faint smile. "It is a surprise to see you again so soon, Lord Harad, and with such a large contingent of men. Is there a problem in Anorien?"

Harad leaned back and flicked his cloak aside around the long sword at his hip and then rested his hand there casually. "Nay, but I fear danger lies in yours, there is word of more orc attacks amid the Eastfold."

Eomer folded his arms over his chest and glanced at Faramir with a shrug. "That is nothing new, Harad. Why does it suddenly concern you that it would bring you in such haste? I do not think your men marshaled so quickly when the call came to join Theoden in aid to Gondor."

Mairen watched the Anorien lift his chin arrogantly. He leaned forward with a deep frown, and Mairen thought, a glint of madness in his eyes. "Have you no concern that your borders lay harried and ill protected. It would be a simple matter to overcome the few that think to withstand any attack."

Eomer dropped his hand to his own sword. "Indeed? You did not seem such a fool at our last meeting. Do you threaten me?"

Harad laughed and the sound echoed off the buildings around them. "Nay, I merely give you notice that you are vulnerable. I have come to forestall another attack upon our borders. As a lord of the realm I hope only to aide you."

Eomer glanced around him. "Why do I find that hard to believe, Harad? You ride into my city with ill intent to my mind."

Harad's glare was cold and Mairen saw Haldir appear near the mounted warrior, with Rumil a few steps behind, his gaze centered on the Anorien. The people of Edoras were grumbling quietly, their low murmurs filling the air, muffling Harad's words and Mairen strained to hear.

"Ill intent?" Harad laughed sardonically. "Indeed, I would be a fool to ride into Edoras with any intent to do harm." Harad glanced around him, and Mairen felt his gaze sweep over her and then draw back.

Mairen stiffened as the man's eyes slowly drifted over her, glittering in the chill air. Panic gripped her, her chest tight with the effort to breathe calmly while her stomach clenched into knots. This was the man she thought she'd been destined to marry and she found the site of him nearly made her wretch.

Harad slid his gaze to Eomer with a sneer, unaware that Haldir had moved closer. The March Warden was standing with arms folded, his cloak snapping around his ankles. His eyes were narrowed, glittering with anger as she looked quickly away, understanding instantly that he was furious she had not obeyed his orders. She shivered as he returned his gaze to Harad, wondering what he would do. She pulled her cloak tighter as Harad stared at her again, his lip now curled with distaste.

"I see you allow the wench to continue as one of your marshals! I cannot see how you can allow one so tainted to live among your people. Is it not obvious to all that she is of elven blood?" Harad whipped his head back to Eomer with a scornful snort. "Do you not see she has seduced you, hiding among you, pretending to be of Rohan blood? She is impure and mocks you even as you stand there as her king."

He shifted in his saddle and sent a scathing glance toward Mairen. Haldir had stiffened perceptibly, his gaze glued to the Anorien, but his arms remained over his chest. Harad leaned back into his saddle with a sudden deranged laugh, waving a hand toward her. "Perhaps you should give her to me. What price has this marriage cost you? I would take her for nothing. She will know who is master in my house; you allow her too many liberties."

Eomer's chin had risen and he stared condescendingly at the man on horseback. "You seem to find much nerve to come into Edoras and insult me and one of my respected warriors. I think you would find taming her quite difficult, were I to even consider giving her to you."

Harad nearly quivered with outrage and his men stiffened in their saddles, hands flying to their swords. Mairen stepped forward incensed by the man's insults, but Rolfe was suddenly there and he pressed her behind him. Harad held up his hand and the men behind him quieted. He jerked his head in her direction. "I should have known," the lord sneered as he turned his horse to gaze at Mairen. "A witch if I ever saw one. She has bewitched you, Eomer. You are a fool to allow her counsel into your hall, she seeks only to demean and destroy you."

Eomer's eyes narrowed dangerously and Mairen could see the Rohirran King held his temper tightly in check. "You have insulted me enough! I will have you leave Edoras and not return. You are no longer welcome here."

Harad laughed sourly. "Indeed, as I expected, you harbor more liking for the damn elves than you do your own kind." He whirled the large stallion and Mairen gasped for as he turned a shadow seemed to fall over him darkening his profile and his black cloak flared out as he turned around drawing out his sword to brandish it over his head. The horse screamed and Mairen stumbled when the crowd pressed back to avoid the rearing stallion. Rolfe rushed forward as did many others spread within the crowd when Harad's men kicked their horses into motion, springing apart as the Rohirrim converged toward them.

Pandemonium broke out as people began to scream and the horses surged through the crowd. The Anorien's black horse snorted and leaped forward toward Eomer. The Rohirran King ducked the blade Harad swung toward his head, but then the huge horse plunged up the stone steps of Meduseld, knocking Eomer backwards into Faramir and both men fell back to avoid Harad's destrier.

Harad urged his horse down the steps and the animal plowed through the crowd. Mairen rushed to the side only to find the man and horse bearing swiftly toward her. She ran down the steep hill toward the stables with Harad following rapidly and veered off, feeling the pounding of the horse far too close behind her and slammed into a nearby door shoving it open to the horrified screams of those hiding inside.

"Run to the great hall, quickly," she cried and whirled as the door crashed to the floor and the huge horse plunged inside, dwarfing the small room. Mairen lurched to the side twisting around the animal, searching for another way to escape. She found nothing and had to evade the horse, its steaming breath only inches from her face as it shattered a table and chair. Harad whipped the horse into a frenzy and sparks shot out of the fire as the table fell into the flames, spilling ash and embers onto the stone floor. Mairen fled to a far wall, bracing herself against the wood as the horse slammed into another chair, flinging it across the room and into her legs. She gasped as the pain rushed up her leg and limped along the wall as Harad spun the horse in a circle, crashing around the room as Mairen scrambled to stay out of its way. She ducked beneath the horse as Harad lashed out at her with his sword and tumbled out the door.

She screamed when she was plucked off her feet and tossed upside down across a saddle and they whirled away just as the destrier lunged back through the door with Harad screaming in rage. Willem kicked his horse toward the top of the hill, scattering villagers and warriors alike. He drew back and jerked Mairen from his lap into a pair of waiting arms. She was set swiftly on her feet and then shaken roughly.

"I told you to stay out of sight!" Haldir thundered and jerked her behind him up the hill as Harad was forced back by several elves and Rohan marshals. Arrows zipped past them, and Mairen twisted her arm, but Haldir's grip as it always was, was of iron and unbreakable.

"Haldir, I don't understand!" she gasped, stumbling behind him.

The elf did not answer but wrenched her aside when Harad crashed through the men fighting him and lurched up the hill. The horse and rider rushed past them only to rear and spin around. Haldir thrust her behind him, shielding her as the horse thundered back toward them. Mairen stumbled and fell backwards to land with a painful gasp on her side. She tried to rise but was pushed back to the ground as Haldir twisted above her ducking to avoid the blade that passed narrowly over their heads. Haldir shot to his feet, forcing the wildly snorting horse and the rider away from her.

"Get out of here, Mairen. This is not your fight." Haldir demanded harshly, pushing her forward toward Meduseld. He spun to the left to catch the Rohirran spear Willem cast toward him. Mairen drew her sword, whirling toward Haldir, but Harad had forced the stallion to turn and as she rushed forward Haldir's gaze swept toward her and Harad urged his horse to circle the elf. She screamed as the destrier kicked out with its rear feet and Haldir, distracted for only a moment was caught full in the chest by the hooves and thrown back against the stone steps of the hall with a groan.

Rumil and Rolfe leaped in front of Haldir and Rumil grabbed the staff Haldir had dropped and with a whirling spin swung it around his head, grasping it with both hands to slam it forcefully against Harad, knocking the man from his horse. Rolfe bent toward Haldir but turned as another Anorien rushed forward, defending the now unconscious elf from harm.

Mairen took a step toward Haldir, horrified as he lay still against the steps, but found her way blocked by Loriel. She staggered back in surprise as the warden shoved her aside, her green eyes flashing angrily.

"Do you not know when to obey commands, Mairen?"

Mairen gasped as both Rolfe and Willem seized her arms, dragging her quickly up the steps and then suddenly she was in Gamling's grasp as he pulled her toward the doors to the hall.

"Stay out of this."

He thrust her inside and slammed the doors shut. Mairen rushed to the door, banging with her fists, but the doors were jammed from the outside and she stepped back with a sob.