FIRST KNIGHT BY ASHA DREAMWEAVER

Disclaimer: I own nothing but the plot.

Summary: BtVS/LotR. Buffy is sent to Middle Earth to help bring down Sauron. Her duty, like the Istari, is not to confront Sauron directly but to help those fated to face him bring him down. More specifically, she has to help the King of Gondor get on his throne. Will Aragorn and Buffy's strained relationship ever be resolved? What will Aragorn do with the information, the secret, which he now knows? What has Arwen planned? And what will happen when the Three rise up in fury? Will Buffy be able to fulfil her duty when she's now the hunted? Will Denethor be able to put aside his animosity for the man who would supplant him? Will the ringbearer reach Mount Doom, or will he be cut down before he reaches his goal? And what path does Boromir now follow?

Author's notes: Éowyn comes into the story in this chapter! Yay! In addition, would everyone please note that due to the fact that Tolkien crammed everything about Helms Deep and events in Rohan into the space of about three days, from here on out, the timelines will diverge. With Buffy's presence and my own inability to fit everything into the time span as well as the fact that Gandalf's line 'Look to my coming at first light on the fifth day,' contradicts the books, I have judged it better to just alter the timelines to fit in with everything in the story. Please do not flame me. If it makes anyone feel any better, let's just say I liked the movie timeline better, okay? If anyone wants details of the altered timelines as the story goes on, I can add it to the bottom of my little encyclopaedia thingy. Just let me know if you want me to.

Also, this chapter is even longer than the last one, so I seem to be on some lucky streak!

Review responses:

Alliana Greenleaf Halliwe - thanks! And sadly, I have plans for Éowyn's crush… Interesting that you should say that about the palantír though….

Andrea35 - thanks! And Aragorn is starting to wear Buffy down, along with her own mind…. Even a slayer is not invincible… Okay, as to Galadriel's message, it had no bearing on any new slayer. There will be no slayer. Galadriel said 'predecessors' creed' - in reference to the slayers that went before her. You know, they had to die when their time came. Usually for someone else to live. And that is as much as I can say on the subject at the moment…

Anna - why, thanks! Buffy's dream could be either prophetic or Sauron induced, but I am not telling yet. And yes, the sequel is going to be action packed and hopefully heart wrenching, and I am starting to drop hints here and there in this fic.

Anyanka of the Ocean - how different? And I thought the whole point of this story was to throw new ideas in? Oh well…

Boo - glad you liked it! Okay, how do I explain this? Sauron never actually touched the Three but it was said that if he ever regained the One, he would know the bearer's thoughts and the rings would be his. However, Buffy tied and took Narya with her. Somehow, something happened (which I have not revealed yet) which sundered Narya from ever being controlled by the One, and because the Three are so closely linked, sister rings for lack of a better term, it took Vilya and Nenya with it. It will be explained more fully in time but I cannot just give my reasons up just yet.

Dreamer Child - thanks! And don't underestimate Aragorn in these next few chapters. That will be Buffy's big mistake…. And I'm a little confused, if you're all Irish, how come you've never been there?

Ea - thanks! My fic 'A Light' has been passed onto another author. I do not know when she will post - she has not been in contact. And remember, we are fanfic fans, most of our dream guys are fictional or unattainable, so we're all sad together. Yay!

FallenStar2 - wow! A super long review! Thanks! And I do plan for something good to happen to Boromir, so do not worry on that front. And too true about the wrench, but then again, Buffy and Aragorn have so many issues to work through, what's one more? And yes, when Aragorn confronts her… Well, it isn't going to be pretty… But watch out, he did grow up around the twins… He is sneakier than even she dreamed…. And she did not so much take back Narya as have it dumped in her lap, but yes, it is back with her again. And you are so right about all the possibilities. What a pity I won't be telling you if you are right or not… (Ducks hail of stones) And yes, prophecies have a tendency not to go well for Buffy. Ever. Do not expect this one to be any different…. But there will be no other slayer called. No other slayers in ME, period. Éomer was nice-ish to her because he is not dumb. He remembers her, um, unique ability to humiliate people who are not nice to her, and decided to err on the side of caution. A very wise move. Pity Théoden did not do the same….

Greenleaf - thanks! And she is in love. And no, I do not have any chapters written on the other fics yet as I am in the middle of my mock final exams so I am extremely busy. However I do have them mostly plotted out and will be starting them as soon as I get a chance.

Haley - thanks! Edoras is in this chapter. And you should feel somewhat sorry for Gríma. Buffy, Gandalf, Éowyn, Éomer and Théoden are after his blood! And about the dream, you are right… on her side at least….

Kit-Kat - thanks! Okay, let's just say that Aragorn's luck is getting better, and that he has figured out some major no-nos in dealing with Buffy. The slayer is going to be so off balance for the next while… And her dreams are meant to be disturbing! I enjoy tormenting my readers!

Light Spinner - just slightly busy.

Lindiel Eryn - thanks! As for what Buffy will do, watch this space…. But to make one thing clear, Arwen's vision of Aragorn's death in the movies wasn't fake. Elrond was showing her what would happen when old age finally caught up with him and she would be left alone.

Lunawolf - Horrible thoughts have a bad habit of becoming reality… and I am the Queen of evil endings. And of course, Éowyn is going to do something, but she is going to have a little help… and yes, you have deciphered Legolas's riddle rightly. However, it has two meanings, so you got them both!

Mari - thanks! And yes, their kids would be Terrors. Capital T. And about the riddle, you're partly right…

MiShA - thanks! Yes, Gríma's reaction is to be seen in this chapter. Along with a few others. And glad you like my Legolas, I like him sarcastic, devious and witty!

Pamie - I always think that a sarcastic Legolas is a good Legolas. Thranduil is his father after all…

PrecariousPersonata - thanks! But no, I have checked and I never mentioned wife when Galadriel mentioned Boromir's fate.

ShawThang - thanks! I'm glad the fluff is going down well. This is really one of my first attempts at writing it. But hopefully, there will be a lot more. Without the plot being sacrificed. I like Gimli acting as comic relief, but I am aware that there is more to him, and I will hope to show that. Boromir…. hmmm… I might throw a tidbit in soon just to appease my rabid readers, okay?

sparky24 - thank you! And yes, Buffy is starting to come round. Moreover, Aragorn is determined to give her a few shoves in the right direction. And about the prophecy? Adopt a 'wait and see' policy…

Star - Do not knock yourself. I am deliberately obtuse at times.

Tara6 - Boromir will shine mostly in RotK.

Vixen519 - he is about 87.

And major thanks to:

Annje, Athene Saile, Catgirl Elf Princess, girl, Mama T, ms8309, Night-Owl123, RedsLover03, Rise of Phoenix, Sukera, Tommy14, Tsuki no Yasha, Wild320,

CHAPTER FORTY-ONE: THE LADY OF THE MARK

"The thing that women have to learn is that nobody gives you power. You just take it."

– Roseanne Barr

Edoras, Rohan, 3019 TA, March 2

The city of Edoras was much changed from what either Buffy or Aragorn remembered of it.

The people of the Riddermark were not as learned as those of Gondor; their native tongue had no written counterpart, and was only passed down from generation to generation. For all that, they were livelier than the Men of Gondor too. Quicker of temper and mood, they were merry when pleased and fell when angry. But Buffy had never seen them so… so defeated before.

The Rohirrim had an uncanny knack to laugh in the face of death, and she had never seen them browbeaten before. Dark was their raiment, and downcast their eyes, though they looked upon the small party with small curiosity, it was not the joviality which would have greeted visitors in the past.

Gandalf did not seem as surprised by the change that had swept through the capital of the Mark, "Edoras and the Golden Hall of Meduseld are close by now," he said for the benefit of Gimli and Legolas, who had never before been to Rohan. "There dwells Théoden, King of Rohan, whose mind is overthrown. Saruman's hold over King Théoden is now very strong. I fear too strong…" He sighed at his own words.

Buffy nodded, "I knew him in his days of old, when he was younger and had his own mind. Now I hear that he is old before his time and that he has some illness that leaves him unfit for the title of king." she said, "But I do not think hope is lost yet. His house is a very stubborn one. And trust me, I speak from experience. They can be like mules."

Legolas noticed the surprised stares aimed at Aragorn and Buffy, and the ever increasing mutters of disbelief. The names 'Thorongil' and 'Elliandre' often reached his ears. "The people talk of you, Dúnadan, Dagnir," he said. "Word of our coming shall precede us."

"I think they're just surprised to see us still alive and kicking," Buffy said dryly, "It has been a long while. Especially for Aragorn here."

"Let us hope that it will not bar us from the halls of the king," Gandalf said, adjusting the grip on his staff.

"I only hope that there is someone merry in this place," Gimli growled, "You would find more cheer in a graveyard."

"With war darkening its borders, it may soon be nothing but a graveyard," Gandalf said solemnly and silenced them all.

-

At the entrance to Meduseld, buffeted by the strong winds, stood a slender figure. Long golden hair was caught by the wind and blown every which way but wide eyes remained locked on the strange group of figures approaching the Golden Hall.

Clad in white and gold, the White Lady of Rohan stared at the apparition of times past. Of ambitions and dreams past. The face had not changed. Elliandre had returned.

Her face was unlined, and seemed as youthful as the last time the daughter of Éomund had seen her, when she had still been a child, and only her eyes showed that she had an older soul than her body would account for. Éowyn remembered the time Buffy had told her of Dwimordene, and her passage through the witch's lands, but she had claimed that the tales were wrong and that she had left unchanged.

Éowyn realised now that this must have been false. For Elliandre looked a woman of her own age, and not one that should be old enough to be her mother. She had been a woman grown ere she ever came to Rohan and yet she had not aged. Obviously, Elliandre was tied to Dwimordene and the Lady that ruled there. The Mistress of Magic that ensnared all in her nets.

She wished she knew for what purpose Elliandre now returned, after all these years. However, her attention was caught by the strange travelling companions of the woman. Her eyes went round at her first glimpse of Elf and Dwarf. Had Elliandre brought forth some of those who dwelt in Dwimordene?

Gandalf Greyhame she recognised also, but it was the man that rode beside Elliandre that caught her attention.

He was dressed in the garb of a well travelled warrior, but his face was noble and stern, and handsome for all the cares that lay on it. He held himself as if he was more than a mere warrior, but like a king, as she had seen both Théodred and Éomer do at times.

He looked at her then, and their gazes locked and she took a step back at the intensity of it. Whoever this man was, she knew, he was no mere anything. Moreover, her heart fluttered strangely at the sense of power he held. Maybe this was the one who could release her from the chains of her bower, release her from the fetters that her gender forced on her.

His sharp grey haze released her, and she felt adrift as the wind grew stronger. With one last glance at the mysterious man, and the strangely unchanged Elliandre, she disappeared back into the Golden Hall.

If they had come to see her uncle, then she wanted to be there when they approached him.

-

Meduseld, Edoras, Rohan, 3019 TA, March 2

Feeling uneasy with the amount of eyes upon her, Buffy climbed the stairs to Meduseld with the others. A group of guards, clad in the embellished armour of the King's guards, blocked their path.

Gandalf did not seem overly surprised. Instead, he seemed to be trying to act like an old man, and an eccentric one at that, when Buffy knew full well that he would probably outlast them all.

A guard called Háma, obviously the leader, stepped forward, "Who are your companions, wizard?" he said, "And why do you come to these halls?"

"You know me, Háma," Gandalf said, but realised that he would not get away with leaving his companions nameless, "With me are one known to you as Elliandre, whom I call Buffy, Gimli son of Glóin, Legolas of the Woodland Realm and Aragorn, son of Arathorn. Seldom have guests of such honour graced these halls."

Háma did not seem to know what to make of that, but he persevered, "I cannot allow you before Théoden-King so armed, Gandalf Greyhame. By order of Gríma Wormtongue." he made it sound like a curse when he uttered the counsellor's name and Buffy grimaced when she realised that the old snake was still around.

Gandalf only nodded and ignoring the heated stares of Gimli and Legolas, who did not want to part from their weapons at all, he gestured for everyone to hand over their weapons to the guards. Glowering, Gimli and Legolas obliged, but Buffy noticed, that like her and Aragorn, Legolas did not give up some of the more secretly stashed knives hidden upon his person. Trust a Wood Elf to be as suspicious as a slayer.

However, she did notice that they took delight in scaring the poor Rohirrim guards. Legolas gave his knives a deadly little twirl and then told them to be careful with his bow, for it was a gift from the Lady Galadriel. At those words, Háma had nearly dropped the bow and was forced to put it down as fast as was humanly possible. And even Gimli seemed to take inordinate pleasure in handing the axe to them blade first.

When Háma gestured for Gandalf's staff, Buffy had to smother a smirk when the canny old wizard blinked innocently and pretended not to understand. Clearly uncomfortable, Háma was forced to spell it out for him. "Your staff..." he said awkwardly.

Gandalf feigned a look of surprise, "Hmm?" he said, looking innocently at his staff, in a way that would have done Elladan and Elrohir proud. "Oh. No, surely you would not part an old man from his walking stick?"

Háma seemed to hesitate, but Gandalf just kept up the innocent look and the guard caved, and gestured for them to follow him into the hall. Buffy had to bite the inside of her cheeks to keep from smirking when she saw Gandalf give Aragorn a tiny wink and leaned on Legolas's arm, as if he needed aid to walk.

She just knew that Gríma Wormtongue would blow a fuse at the sight of him.

The Golden Hall had changed much since Buffy had last been there and it saddened her to see it. It was dark now, and little light filtered in. Théoden, shockingly aged and decrepit, slumped on his throne, with the greasy, dark-haired advisor Gríma beside him.

The atmosphere was dark and depressing and it so did not bode well for their little mission.

The worm perked up at the sight of them, surprise and malice in his expression. He leaned down to whisper to Théoden even as they made their way towards him, "My Lord, Gandalf the Grey is coming. He is a herald of woe." he said, confident that the King would follow his instructions, as it always was of late.

Gandalf strode forward, letting go of the prop of Legolas's arm, "The courtesy of your hall is somewhat lessened of late, Théoden King. Has not the messenger from your gate reported the names of my companions? Seldom has any lord of Rohan received four such guests. Weapons they have laid at your doors that are worth many a mortal man, even the mightiest. Grey is their raiment, for the Elves clad them, and thus they have passed through the shadow of great perils to your hall."

Gríma hissed at him, "They come from the witch's realm. They will bewitch you with lies!"

"That guy just bugs me," Buffy whispered to Gimli as his lips curled at the sight of the slimy advisor.

The small group with the wizard looked around at the hostile atmosphere, and the small group of ill looking men that dogged their footsteps.

"Witchcraft again, Wormtongue?" Buffy said and threw back the hood of her cloak, "Do you not remember me Théoden King?" she asked, "Or has this worm poisoned your mind beyond repair?"

"You!" Gríma yelped, "You were banished!"

"Well, I'm here now. How good of you to notice that. You're a lot smarter than you look. Of course, you look like a retard. And by that, I mean no disrespect, of course. I'm sure you come from a long, proud line of geeks."

Gríma nearly snarled at the sight of her, and her words filled him with rage but there was no acknowledgement from Théoden and he was aware that the wizard was more dangerous at the moment. To Buffy's eyes, Théoden seemed a shell of the king that he had been. Gríma continued to whisper poison in his ear, "He is not welcome!" he hissed.

Théoden lifted his head and nearly blank eyes looked at the wizard. Slowly, with great effort, he spoke, as if the effort was beyond him, "Why should I… welcome you, Gandalf… Stormcrow?" When he finished, he looked to Gríma, as if to make sure he had said the right thing.

Confident now that he held the power, Gríma stood and spewed forth his bile at them, "A just question, my liege." he said soothingly, stepping forward towards Gandalf, his voice growing louder as he felt his strength secure with Théoden's lack of will, "It is not yet five days since the bitter tidings came that Théodred, your son, was slain upon the West Marches; your right hand, Second Marshal of the Mark. In Éomer, there is little trust. Few men would be left to guard your walls, if he had been allowed to rule. And even now, we learn from Gondor that the Dark Lord is stirring in the East. Late is the hour in which this conjurer chooses to appear. Why indeed should we welcome you Master Stormcrow? Lathspell spell I name you; Ill-news. Ill news is an ill guest they say."

Gandalf just glared at him, even as Buffy gasped at the news that Théodred was dead. "Be silent!" he snapped, "Keep your forked tongue behind your teeth. I have not passed through fire and death to bandy crooked words with a witless worm!" he raised his staff against the sly advisor and he cowered at the sight of it.

Gríma snarled at the guards while backing away, "His staff! I told you to take the wizard's staff!" he chastised harshly.

Without warning, save for what watchful eyes could tell, the men that had dogged their steps since entering Meduseld attacked. Whirling, Buffy grabbed the arm of one that sought to grab her by the neck and flipped him over her, even as Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas did the same around her. Neutralising the attack and allowing Gandalf space to do what he had come to do.

Gandalf did not halt or slow in his approach of Théoden, and Gamling, the king's captain and loyal bodyguard tried to go forward but to his surprise, Háma held him back.

Gandalf raised his staff and his voice boomed, "Théoden, son of Thengel, too long have you sat in the shadows. For behold! The storm comes, and now all friends should gather together, lest each singly be destroyed."

Terror taking him, Gríma tried to crawl away unnoticed but Gimli pounced on him, catching him and pinning him to the floor. "I would stay still, if I were you." the Dwarf growled menacingly.

Gandalf continued on, and Buffy, cheerfully standing on a fallen man, watched the wizard work, "Harken to me, son of Thengel! I release you from the spell." he said, with an impressive gesture with his staff.

On the throne, the figure that was Théoden started to chuckle dryly, menacingly, growing in strength and volume the longer it continued. Even Gandalf looked at him in surprise. "You have no power here, Gandalf the Grey!" the voice of Saruman came through the body of Théoden, smug with the certainty of victory.

Gandalf suddenly threw back his grey cloak, and the bright white light that hurt Buffy's eyes sprang up again. Théoden was thrown back against his seat and pinned there as he raised his staff.

"Argh!" the king cried, Saruman still possessing him.

Gandalf pointed his staff like an arrow, his voice determined as he spoke, "I shall draw you, Saruman, as poison is drawn from a wound."

Head snapping around, Buffy watched Éowyn rush in, and seeing the commotion, she tried to dash to her uncle. Buffy made to go to her but Aragorn got there first, and catching her, held her back gently. "Wait," he bid her softly.

"If I go. . . Théoden dies." Saruman sneered at his rival, leaning forward in the chair, "Either way I win, you old fool! You have not the power to thwart me!"

Gandalf threw him back again, "You did not kill me, you will not kill him!" he snapped.

From behind Théoden's eyes, Saruman glared, "Rohan is mine!" he roared.

But Gandalf was stronger than he had imagined, and the White Wizard matched him, "Be gone!" he ordered, even as the figure of Théoden lunged at him. Théoden was thrown back by the force of it as Gandalf's power filled the room, and far away, in the tower of Orthanc, the real body of Saruman slammed into the hard stone wall and then to the floor.

Gandalf watched the king, as he let out a low moan and slumped forward in the chair. Alarmed beyond measure, Éowyn broke free of Aragorn's hold and ran to her uncle's side as he fell forward. After a moment, Théoden's head lifted, and before their very eyes, his face began to flush with life. With every passing moment, the aged and decrepit look faded away to be replaced by what he should have been; - an older man still strong in body and mind, and the grey of his hair and beard changed to the dull gold colour of his youth. At last, even as Éowyn looked at him with tear filled eyes, he seemed to regain clarity and really looked at his niece for the first time in Eru knew when.

"I know your face. Éowyn… Éowyn…" he said in a whisper, even as she wept for joy.

Gandalf smiled at the sight, and Buffy let out a sigh of relief, "Breathe the free air again, my friend."

And so he did.

The dark curtains that shrouded the hall in darkness were pulled back, and light filled his halls once more. Trembling, Théoden stood, supported by Éowyn, but he soon found that his strength was returned to him.

Théoden stared in wonder at the wizard, "Dark have been my dreams of late…. And now…."

Gandalf smiled gently, "Your fingers would remember their old strength better... if they grasped your sword."

Háma ran up with the king's old sword, and Théoden reached for it with trembling hands, wrapping his fingers slowly around the hilt and then drawing it from its sheath, looking at the glinting steel as if mesmerised.

In the corner, Buffy had joined Gimli in keeping the frightened treacherous little weasel in place, and he tried to crawl away at the sight of her, but she could only smile brightly- which seemed to frighten him further.

"Payback's a bitch, isn't it?" she said cheerfully, 'accidentally' stomping on his arm to hold him in place.

But Gríma sensed his time was up, and as Théoden's strength and memories returned to him, the King's livid gaze and attention turned to the traitorous Gríma.

Buffy was really pleased to see that infamous Rohirrim temper surface once more…

-

'Twas with much amusement and the satisfaction of revenge fulfilled that Buffy watched Théoden run Gríma out of Meduseld, with the intention of continuing right on until he was thrown out of the city, and then out of Rohan.

After all, it was not often that one saw a livid king act like a hound on the chase.

Trembling with rage, the king had stalked Gríma out through the threshold of Meduseld and then had physically thrown him out of his halls and down the stairs. Buffy had to admit that it was a most impressive throw and that Gríma squealed most satisfactorily.

Gríma scrambled up onto all fours, and looked beseechingly at Théoden, "I have only ever served you, my lord!" he cried; to the last trying to get himself out of this mess.

Théoden, clutching his sword, just continued to stalk forward and Buffy perched herself on one of the stairs to watch the show. "Your leechcraft would have had me crawling on all fours like a beast!" Théoden snarled, "You are a traitor to Rohan and deserve to die a traitor's death!"

Buffy really wondered when Wormtongue was going to figure out that grovelling just was not going to work. "Send me not from your side!" Gríma pleaded, hands out as if to protest his innocence.

Théoden raised his sword but Aragorn came upon him and held him back. Buffy glared at the back of the ranger. What in Arda was he doing? Gríma was a spy for Saruman; surely they were not going to let him go? She had learned early on never to leave a baddie unfinished, because it might take years, but they would rise up to haunt you. They always dis.

Aragorn had a firm grip on Théoden's sword arm, "No, my lord!" he said, unwavering under Théoden's fiery gaze, "No, my lord. Let him go. Enough blood has been spilled on his account. Let him go and see what scraps his master will throw him now that he has failed."

Théoden stared at the ranger for a moment, and then nodded tersely, lowering his sword. Gríma did not wait around for the king to change his mind, and to the displeasure of nearly everyone present, he scrambled to his feet and started pushing through the crowd, seeking to get out of the gates of Edoras as fast as he could go.

"Get out of my way!" he yelled.

And unwilling to let him go unmarked, Buffy called out, "How about you let the door hit you in the ass on the way out of town?"

Gandalf shot her a long suffering look but she just batted her eyelashes innocently until he sighed and looked away, shaking his head as he did so.

Háma approached his king, and called out to all present, "Hail, Théoden king!"

Still staring at the long unseen figure of their king, the people of Edoras knelt and despite Buffy and Gandalf's stares, Aragorn did also.

The king bowed his head to acknowledge their signs of respect but then he looked up, as if something had just occurred to him, and he turned to look at Éowyn, "Where is Théodred? Where is my son?"

-

The grave mounds, outside Edoras, Rohan, 3019 TA, March 2

"He was slain at the Fords of Isen some days ago, my lord,'" Éowyn said, tears streaking down her pale face, "He took a grievous wound. Éomer brought him to Edoras as soon as he could, but his wound was too grave. He lies with your fathers now, uncle."

Éowyn's words haunted his mind, echoing over and over until he knew by heart.

His son was dead.

And he had not known. Had not even gone to him on his deathbed.

He was conscious that Gandalf and Elliandre - no, she was called Buffy now- lingered to see if he was well. And he was grateful for their presence, even if they were a reminder of the duties that now called him. Their other companions were too exotic, or their lineage too much of a shock and a challenge for him to rest easy.

Buffy though he knew, and was sorry for his treatment of her at Gríma's persuasion, and he had respect for the wizard, Gandalf, his coming had saved his life, and perhaps that of Rohan.

Their silent comfort was a help, but it could not ease the agony in his heart. Lost in the leechcraft of Wormtongue and Saruman, he had neglected his country, his family and lost touch with the world completely, becoming only a breathing shell.

Théodred was slain at a battle he had had no idea of, his son and heir lost. Éomer was banished by his own decree. Loyal and valiant Éomer who had only tried to protect him, and his sister. And with him, he had taken a couple of thousand loyal men, who he feared would be badly needed soon. And Éowyn, who had nursed him in his dotage, her footsteps had been too long dogged by Gríma's filthy lechery, and pale she was, and cold. As a flower wilting in the frost. He had hurt every one of his kin left living by falling to Saruman's wiles. And it was a bitter taste to swallow.

And now war gathered at his borders; a war he could not win, and legends sprang up from the grass. And he was adrift, lost and yet his people looked to him for leadership. Éomer, the new heir, was gone. Long gone by now, and Éowyn was fragile inside, she too often thought of death in battle as her dream. Neither could help him much in the decisions that had to be made.

He twirled the seemingly innocent white flower in his hand, and then sighing, he dropped it to fall on the tomb of his son, "Simbelmynë." he said aloud, his first words since coming to the mounds, "Ever has it grown on the tombs of my forebears. Now it shall cover the grave of my son. Alas, that these evil days should be mine. The young perish and the old linger. That I should live to see the last days of my house…"

Gandalf stepped forward, "Théodred's death was not of your making." he said soothingly.

Théoden only bowed his head, "No parent should have to bury their child." he said as he wept.

Buffy looked at the king as he knelt at his son's graveside, and her heart went out to him, but she could not go to him. She was as much a stranger to him as he was to her.

Gandalf bowed his head solemnly, his voice low and respectful, "His was strong in life. His spirit will find its way to the halls of your fathers. Westu hál. Ferðu, Théodred, Ferðu."

Placing his hand on Buffy's shoulder, he silently told her that it was time to leave, and to leave the heartbroken king grieve in private. And silently she followed him. However, as she crested the hill, she spotted two figures on horseback and even as Gandalf in turn spotted them, she gave a cry as the boy on the horse fell from the horse, flopping to the ground.

Racing to their side, she dropped down next to the boy even as the girl was steadied by Gandalf and helped down from the mount, which was obviously exhausted, its coat slick with sweat.

She carefully examined the boy and relieved she looked at the wizard, even as Théoden joined them, "He is only exhausted. And in need of rest and some food," she said and Théoden bent to lift the boy, as he was too awkward for Buffy to carry.

Crossing to the girl, Buffy gently took her from Gandalf's arms, "Are you alright?" she asked the tired girl, "What are you doing here on your own?"

The girl looked at Buffy, eyes drooping with fatigue and a fat tear rolled down her cheek, "Mama said to come," she said, "She said that we had to raise the alarm." The girl sniffled and rubbed at her eyes, "Orcs came!" she wailed, "And they burned and killed! It was h-horrible!" she said as she started to weep.

Buffy's horrified eyes met Gandalf's and they both looked to Théoden.

Gandalf's voice was grave, "War has come to Rohan…"

-

When the king, wizard and slayer returned bearing two exhausted children with a dire warning, chaos momentarily descended on the Golden Hall.

Mistress of her uncle's halls, Éowyn immediately rushed to help Buffy who was tending to a gash on the young girl's leg, while Théoden carefully set down the elder boy, who was beginning to wake up.

Aragorn went to Gandalf, who looked worried, trying to find out what was wrong. "What happened Gandalf, why are they here?"

The wizard sighed, "They come bearing a warning." he said quietly, as Legolas and Gimli joined them, "Saruman's Uruk-hai ravage the Westfold, slaughtering its people and burning its houses and lands. The children were sent here to warn the king by their mother. That is all that we have been able to get out of them."

"So it has begun," Aragorn said, surprising himself with his steady tone, "And what little time we hoped to have is now gone. How soon until they reach Edoras?"

Gandalf's eyes darkened, "I cannot say. But I would wager that Saruman drives them hard. Nevertheless, however long we have, it is too little time. And Théoden's numbers are too few."

Gandalf drifted away to talk to Théoden, who looked troubled as he rightly should be, leaving Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli in silence.

Legolas sighed, "Mithrandir has much work ahead of him. I only wish that I were as certain of Théoden's strength as he is. I fear he wavers. Fear must not be allowed rule his decisions."

"These are his lands," Aragorn said, "And while the Eldar learned long ago that running was not an option, unless it be to the West, the memories of Men are short. But he will do as he thinks best."

The Elf was troubled himself, "I will go outside for a moment," he said softly, "I need to think."

Aragorn waved him away, and Gimli trotted after him, saying that he needed a good smoke somewhere where it was not so stuffy, leaving Aragorn standing alone.

Unbidden, his eyes were drawn to the two women tending the children. Buffy's healer training coming to the fore as it always did when war and battles did not call her. Buffy, still in travel stained warrior garb, and Éowyn, clad elegantly in brown and green, looked very different, for all their similarities. However, for some reason, he thought that Éowyn just might be Buffy's match for desire and courage. The young Shieldmaiden wished to be a warrior, and he thought that with experience, she would be a force to be reckoned with, for all her kinfolk's desire to keep her away from the hardships of war.

He watched Buffy and Éowyn fuss over the children and his heart twisted strangely as he looked at Buffy coaxing the little girl to eat. She would be a good mother, he thought, surprising himself. For one so used to war and its horrors, she was remarkably easy with Freda.

Her touch was gentle, though he knew those hands had more often held a weapon than anything else. And however tired she was, she still had energy to devote to tending to the children. There was something odd about seeing someone so crafted for giving death looking after children with all the compassion of a healer.

He wondered what she would choose if they won this war, and if Sauron was destroyed. Warrior or healer? Or neither perhaps? For all his gifts with foresight, her future lay shrouded from his view.

-

From across the room, Théoden watched the tender regard was seen in Aragorn's face as he looked at Buffy and he wondered at their relationship. Thorongil and Elliandre, as he knew them of old, were even more of a mystery than they had been then.

But if Aragorn really was Isildur's Heir of Gondor, then his slowness in ageing was explained. The line of Númenor was slow to wax and wane.

But Buffy was as golden as any of the Rohirrim, and shorter than the tall race of Gondor. The Dúnedain were dark haired and grey eyed, and tall and lordly in their fashion. Buffy looked nothing like them, so she was not of their kin, but yet, she had not aged much since he saw her. Her face was still unlined, her hair untouched by frost…

So what was she?

-

Théoden may have been blind for longer than he had ever dreamed of, but just because she travelled with the wizard that had pulled him back from the brink, did not mean that she would be allowed free run of the Riddermark without explanation.

He went to her, and immediately hazel eyes turned wary, but he knew that she would cause no scene in front of the children. They had seen enough trauma.

Taking her by the arm, he ignored her slight tensing and the sudden boring of a set of grey eyes into his back. He cared not what Aragorn thought.

He led her to a secluded nook in the room, and turned to face her. "What are you doing here, Elliandre?" he said brusquely.

"Helping to save your ass," she answered dryly, "And you appear so grateful too. Shouldn't I be the one asking why you dragged me over? In case you didn't notice, I do have some patients to tend to."

"You return to help a king that banished you?" Théoden said in disbelief, "And that was so many years ago. Yet you have not aged. You look of an age with my niece, but I know you are not. What devilry is this?"

"No devilry," Buffy said, "The Dúnedain have always led longer lives than other Men. And they age only slowly." The lie no longer made her wince.

Théoden arched an eyebrow, his whole stance screaming disbelief, "One of the Dúnedain? You? Do you expect me to believe that? Aragorn, I can believe is one, he is dour enough for one. You? With those looks? Who do expect to fool?"

"And you may be a king, but you're not my king, and I don't have to take this nonsense from you," Buffy said, a hint of warning in her voice.

"You will answer if you wish to remain in this land," Théoden said. "I know not what you are, but do not try to fool me by saying Dúnedain."

"I don't take orders." Buffy said tightly, "I do things my way. And I do not have to explain myself to you. As far as you are concerned, I am one of the good guys, which means until Saruman's off your back, you either like me or lump me. Either way, I'm staying."

His eyes narrowed, "You tread a fine line, Buffy," he said, emphasising her, for him, new name, "You would do well to hold that tart tongue of yours."

"Why?" she demanded infuriatingly, hands placed on her hips, "Because you say so? No way, Théoden King. I may be older than I look, but most people count that as a good thing. However, I am in no way affianced with the Dark Lord, Saruman or any of the other nasties you think I am. And I am insulted by your insinuations. In case you have forgotten, son of Thengel, I tried to warn you about Wormtongue how many years ago, but not only did you not listen to me, you threw me out of Rohan without any cause. Between the two of us, going on track records, you seem to have the worst judgement so why should I tolerate this abuse from you?"

He seethed in front of her, and his fists clenched, and her own anger simmered underneath her cool façade, but ere their fight could come to blows, someone intervened.

Aragorn stepped between them, and taking in the situation in a glance, he placed his arm on Buffy's elbow and spoke softly to her, "Go," he whispered, seeing those hazel chips of fire flash at him, the intensity of them somewhat strange to his eyes, even accustomed as he was to her temper, "You will do no good if you assault the King of this land. Wait until the battle is done and then you may hash out your differences. Go! Éowyn will be glad of your company. I shall calm him down."

Shooting Théoden another dark glower, she looked at the ranger, and surprisingly, gave in without comment, stalking away to find the other woman.

He watched her go, and when she was safely out of hearing range, he turned to Théoden. "I know not what passed between you," he said sternly, but there was steel in its undertones, "And I care not. But I say this to you, and I will only say it once, leave her alone."

"You dare threaten me?" Théoden said in incredulity.

"I do not have to," Aragorn replied, "She is more than capable of taking care of it herself, but I would not see her turn you black and blue, even for the insults you give her."

"She comes into my country, looking still the youth she was when she left. Would you let one such as she wander your lands, my lord Aragorn, if you actually had any?"

The words had bite, and Aragorn's jaw tightened, "That is a matter for another day," he said firmly, "And one between you and I. But Buffy is a woman of honour, and has deeds of valour to her name that you can never hope to rival. Let her be. You need a warrior such as her on your side. Not against you."

Théoden looked at the protective light in Aragorn's eyes, and felt his suspicions confirmed. Whatever madness the man held, he had somehow managed to ensnare himself with that viper of a woman. But other words surprised him too, for one so obviously loathe to see her come to any harm.

"You will let your lady fight?" Théoden asked in surprise.

Aragorn smiled wryly, but it did not reach his eyes, "She is not yet my lady, and the Valar themselves could seldom dissuade her from such a course once she has set her mind upon it."

The ranger stepped back, but his final words were final, "Leave her be, Théoden King, or it shall be far more than only her that would come after you. She has many friends, and many of them stand higher than you."

-

Meduseld, Edoras, Rohan, 3019 TA, March 2- evening.

When both children had been sufficiently recovered to tell the tale in full, they had been given full bowls of stew, and even now, Éowyn sat beside them watchfully, as the debate raged around them.

The young Shieldmaiden quivered with rage, and the damning knowledge of what was surely to come. "They had no warning." she said, directing her words at her silent uncle, "They were unarmed. Defenceless… Now the wildmen are moving through the Westfold, burning as they go. Rick, cot and tree… Are they to do so unchallenged? Are we to watch while the Mark burns?"

Beside her, the little girl cringed at the sharp tones, "Where is mama?" Freda said, hiccupping and Éowyn was forced to subside to take care of her cries, but her eyes still burned into Théoden's.

Gandalf leaned on his staff. His face was very grave, but he could no predict which way Théoden would go, "This is but a taste of the terror that Saruman will unleash." he warned, "All the more potent for he is driven mad by fear of Sauron. He will not stop until every man, woman and child is dead. You must do something. Ride out and meet him head on. Draw him away from your women and children." He placed a hand on Théoden's chair, forcing the king to look at him, which he did warily, "You must fight."

Aragorn was seated beside Buffy, and his steady gaze was fixed on the Horse-lord, "You have more support than you know. You have two thousand good men riding north as we speak. Éomer is your nephew and he is loyal to you. His men will return and fight for their king. You must call them back."

Théoden sighed and his eyes were darkened with despair and fatigue, "They will be three hundred leagues from here by now." he said dismissively, "Éomer cannot help us now.

"You tell me that not even one of the Mearas could not catch up with them in time?" Buffy said in disbelief, "Have you not carrier-birds? Anything? You need him, call him back! You need the full Éoherë!"

His eyes flickered with anger at the sight of the woman, "It will do not good," he said sternly, "I know what it is that you want of me. But I will not bring further death to my people. They have suffered enough. I will not risk open war."

Buffy glowered and near to her, Gimli took a bite of his bread as he patted her hand soothingly. He had seen enough of that slayer temper to want to witness another scene now.

Aragorn did not flinch, "Open war is upon you. Whether you would risk it or not." he said levelly.

Théoden looked back at him stonily, and his voice was as hard as iron, "When last I looked, Théoden, not Aragorn, was king of Rohan." he said testily, and Gimli nearly spat out his drink at the clearly challenging words. Legolas just shook his head minutely. Let Aragorn take care of it, he signalled silently.

Éowyn, however, did not take the insult well, "Why can you not listen to him, uncle?" she demanded, "If Saruman is coming for us, what can we do but meet him in battle?"

"Be silent, Éowyn," Théoden said sharply, "To meet him in battle here would be disaster. I know not what forces he has at his command, but I would wager it would be more than mine."

"So what will you do?" Buffy asked, "Crawl under a rock and hope he passes you by? Théoden, don't you understand? Sauron will strike at Gondor soon, and he leaves Saruman to strike at you. There is no escape, except be it in the victory."

"I care not what you have to say," Théoden said, "This is my lands, and these are my people, and I cannot dare risk open war."

Gandalf just looked at him, "Then what is the king's decision?" he said diffidently.

"The city will empty. We will go to Helms Deep," Théoden announced, "And whatever force Saruman sends against us, will break on the walls of the fortress. No enemy has ever entered the Hornburg while we defended it."

"Helms Deep!" Éowyn cried, "How are we ever to make it in time?"

"You're walling yourself in," Buffy said quietly, "You go in, and you won't be able to come back out."

"She is right," Aragorn agreed, "Saruman comes to destroy you, not to let you be."

"Stop this, all of you!" Théoden bellowed, silencing the whole room, "I am king here, and my word is law. My decision is final. Let that be the end of it."

"As you wish, Théoden King," Aragorn said tightly, and standing up, he left the room. Legolas and Buffy shared a glance; Aragorn's temper was up and someone had to calm him down. Shooting an apologetic glance at Gandalf, Legolas went after the ranger.

Gamling crossed to the King, "Do you wish me to prepare your order, Your Majesty?" he asked.

"The city is to empty, by order of the king," Théoden said. And by Eorl, let me be doing the right thing, he thought inwardly.

-

Éowyn could not help but feel her heart flutter strangely every time she looked at Aragorn. She knew who he was now, a king to be. But he seemed so much more than that. He was strong, used to battles and hardships and yet nobility was in his glance and in his actions. He seemed to her to be such a man that would let his lady fight if she wished.

Let her fight if she wished.

He could bring her the glory she craved, could bring her away from the cramped walls of her bower into more joyous times. Oh, if he would only look at her!

He was to be King of Gondor, but his heart was noble and generous and his mind keen. The lady who would be his wife should be a happy woman. Moreover, she sensed that he would allow his wife much more liberties and freedom than half the stuffy old lords whose presence she had suffered through.

She blushed at her thoughts, especially since he had not even given her the slightest hint of any regard for her. But she could not help but dream… If she could not dream, what comfort had she, locked away here as she was? Protected until she felt like screaming?

She flushed again as knowing hazel eyes met hers with a curious emotion in their depths, one that she could not make out. She was sure that the indomitable Elliandre- no, Buffy now - knew of her deepening regard for Lord Aragorn, and she was not sure how she felt about that.

But then again, Buffy had travelled with him. Mayhap she could tell her if she even stood a chance? She had seen an exquisite jewel around his neck, and wondered if a lady had given it to him.

Her resolve strengthening, she looked at Buffy. Maybe it would be worth the embarrassment of asking…. Maybe he would be worth the embarrassment of asking…

-

In his rooms, having sent a concerned Legolas away, Aragorn pondered on the newest developments in the ever convoluted relationship between Buffy and him.

He was not oblivious to the Lady Éowyn's regard for him, even if he did not acknowledge it. He knew it not to be true. It was hero worship that he saw in her eyes. She thought that he could take her away from her nightmares, but he could not. Only she could do that.

However, he had seen the slight narrowing of Buffy's eyes when she had noticed Éowyn's frequent glances at him, and unbidden, his training in mischief came back to him. Oh, he had a plan worthy of the twins at their worst…

After all, when one was dealing with noble Ladies, and possible Queens, not to mention a slayer, one had to be sneaky. Devious, even.

He had to hold back a chuckle as he mused on it. If Buffy had thought his approach changed before…. Well, she would just have to learn that she could not run from him.

He would not allow it.

-

After Aragorn and Legolas had left, and Éowyn had taken the children to find a place to sleep, Buffy stalked over to Théoden.

"What do you want?" he asked shortly when he saw her.

"With all due respect Théoden, you're beginning to bore the hell out of me." Buffy said, "Try to get a different response, won't you? I get so tired of the same old insults."

"I would rather be fighting you than listening to this drivel," Théoden said angrily, "But as you are a woman, I will let this slide."

"Oh trust me, the feeling's mutual." Buffy drawled, "You are acting like you have stones for brains."

"I do not want to hear your opinions on anything… Buffy," he said firmly, "Just go."

"Well, I never asked for your permission to give them," Buffy said, "Helms Deep… what are you thinking? Do you not think that Gríma will tell Saruman that you'll go there first?"

"The city lacks enough men to defend it. Too many left with Éomer, or have gone to the Westfold or Eastfold." Théoden said tightly, "Am I to make the women and children fight as well? Or do I take them to safety like I must?"

"If you include me in that 'women and children' spiel, I will hit you." Buffy said, noticing the way he eyed her height.

"You would not be even able to see over the Deeping wall." he said derisively.

"So I stand on a rock or something? Who cares? I'm certainly a better shot than you are. But then again, you don't think that I would. Or could."

"Would what?" Théoden ground out in frustration when he realised that she was not going to leave him alone.

"Save you." she said, "Which is like, so outdated. Menfolk not always around to protect the womenfolk, you know? Besides, what if it turned out you were the guy I had to fight? Could happen. You were making with the crazy while Wormtongue was here."

"You may not be a normal woman, Buffy," he said, "But you have no authority here. Do not overstep your bounds."

"Sorry," Buffy said, fake apologetically, "It's sorta my job. I have to tell you things that no one else will. Because you need to hear them."

Her mocking tone left to be replaced with seriousness, and her face was solemn, "Saruman won't stop by burning the Westfold, or even Edoras to the ground. Sauron has ordered him to help destroy the world of Men, and since there are really only two big realms left, you get the dubious pleasure of being the first to go under. He will come and he will not stop until every man, woman and child with the blood of Rohan are dead and your realm is totally and irrevocably destroyed. The land of Rohan will be stained red with blood and as the tales grow, if any survive to spread them, people will avoid this place like they do the Dead Marshes." she said, painting him a chilling picture as she spoke, "Your house will die. Slaughtered. Éowyn might survive, Wormtongue seemed to want her for a plaything badly enough. However, it would not be a fate that I would wish on her. Your people will die in fire, and steel and torment. Your head will probably be placed on a pike. The bodies of your dead will be used in orc and Uruk-hai cook pots. This is what will happen if you do not take your head out of the sand. Beware, Théoden King, lest you make a mistake and Rohan dies. Forever."

He gaped at her, as she flounced out of the room and he saw both wizard and Dwarf smothering smirks and suddenly finding the floor very interesting.

"At least I know where Éowyn learned it," he muttered, thinking of his fiery niece. Buffy would just more trouble than she was worth in his opinion. Well, he thought with some relief, at least it would be Aragorn that would have to deal with her and not him.

Now if only he could get her chilling words out of his head…

-

Orthanc, 3019 TA, March 2

In the tower of Orthanc, a wizard stalked like a caged line, the rage that filled him reverberating throughout the room.

How dare that lowly fool of a wizard challenge him! He was master of the Tower, he was aligned with Barad-dûr, he was powerful, and all that that fool fought for would be swept away by the power of Sauron and Saruman.

But even reminding himself of that could not cool his rage, and so he ranted; the sight of the snivelling Gríma only annoying him further. "Gandalf the White!" he snapped, "Gandalf the Fool. Does he seek to humble me with his newfound piety?"

Gríma approached him cautiously from behind, eager to try to regain the wizard's favour, "There were four who followed the wizard. An Elf, a Dwarf, a woman and a Man."

Saruman sniffed and turned, nose wrinkling at the sight of him, "You stink of horse." he snapped, and then paused, "The Man… was he from Gondor? And the woman too?"

Gríma shook his head, "No, he was from the North. One of the Dúnedain rangers, I thought he was. His cloth was very poor and worn. And yet he bore a strange ring. Two serpents with emerald eyes. One devouring, the other crowned with golden flowers."

Saruman's eyes widened, "And the woman?" he said. Surely it could not be?

"She was from the north also, but she rode with the Rohirrim many years ago," Gríma said, loathing in his voice. "She was banished by Théoden ere she could foil our plans. Clear of sight she is, and rumour says that she is the ranger's lady."

"Did she have any tokens? What did she look like?"

Gríma shook his head, "Not that I could see. And she could pass for one of the Rohirrim. She is golden of hair, and fair of face. Petite though."

"And a warrior?" the wizard asked softly, already knowing the answer.

"Yes, possessed of strange strength for a woman." Gríma answered, "And friendly with the king's niece."

"The one you were to take for yourself?" Saruman hissed knowingly, "You have done some good, Wormtongue. Not enough to make up for your botching things up in Edoras, but enough so that you shall live. Leave me!"

Alone at last, he went to his library and searched until he found the volume he was looking for. After flicking through the pages, he finally found what he was looking for. A picture of the ring that Gríma had described. "The Ring of Barahir…" he read in wonder, "So Gandalf Greyhame thinks he has found Isildur's heir. The lost king of Gondor. He is a fool. The line was broken years ago. And he paired with a witch trained by Galadriel. An interesting choice of pawns..."

He waved a hand, as if to dismiss his own worries, "It matters not. The world of Men shall fall. It will begin at Edoras..."

-

A/N: Well? Feedback wanted please! How do you like what's happening? Please READ and REVIEW!

Next chapter: Buffy and Éowyn get chatty… Aragorn shows his devious streak…. The grapevine works overtime…. And Théoden comes to some decisions…

Elvish:

Dúnadan - man of the West

Dagnir - slayer

Mithrandir - Grey Pilgrim

-

Rohirric

Westu hál. Ferðu, Théodred, Ferðu - Be-thou well. Go-thou, Théodred, go-thou.

-

Dwimordene - the name in Rohan for the Golden Wood of Lothlórien. It has generally been villainised by superstition, old wives' and soldiers' tales of the Lady who dwells there, and how she weaves her spells with sorcerers and net-weavers. All completely untrue, but none of the Rohirrim have ever gone near the Wood and they fear it.

Éoherë - term used by the Rohirrim for the full muster of their cavalry.

Éomer - son of Éomund of Eastfold and Princess Théodwyn, sister to Théoden King. Born in 2991. Has lived with Théoden King since his parents death 3002.

Éomund of Eastfold - Chief Marshal of the Mark. Would go on to be brother-in-law to Théoden King of Rohan and father to Éomer and Éowyn.

Éowyn - daughter of Éomund of Eastfold and Princess Théodwyn, sister to Théoden King. Born in 2995. Has lived with Théoden King since her parents death 3002.

Gríma Wormtongue - Counsellor of King Théoden and agent of Saruman.

Háma - Captain of the household of King Théoden.

Heren Istarion - Order of Wizards

Hornburg - fortress in Rohan at the entrance to Helm's Deep

House of Eorl - the House of the Kings of Rohan. Named after Eorl the Young who first settled in Rohan, and was their first leader.

Istari - the Maiar who were sent from Aman in the Third Age to resist Sauron. Sindarin: Ithryn.

Meduseld - the Golden Hall of Edoras, in Rohan. The residence of the King and the court.

Narya - the Ring of Fire. Set with a ruby stone. One of the Three Elven Rings. Originally given to Círdan, it was passed onto Gandalf when he arrived in Middle Earth during the Third Age.

Númenor - Land of the Star. Translated 'Westland'. When Elros Half-Elven, Elrond's twin, chose to be of the Race of Men, the Valar granted him an island to rule over. It was prepared by the Valar as a dwelling place for the Edain after the First Age. Elros, granted a longer lifespan because of his Elven heritage, and the rest of the Edain who followed him were long lived as well, became Elros Tar-Minyatur, first King of Númenor.

Orthanc - the great Númenórean tower in the Circle of Isengard. Home of Saruman.

Théodred - Son of King Théoden of Rohan, slain in the First Battle of the Fords of Isen.

Thorongil - 'eagle of the star'. Aragorn's alias when he served as an officer to Ecthelion II, Steward of Gondor and when he rode with the Rohirrim under King Thengel.

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