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? In addition, what path does Boromir now follow?
Author's notes: Thanks for all your reviews! Sorry for the slight delay, but I had a whole week of mock final exams this week so I've been super busy! Anyone else out there doing the Irish pre-Leaving Certificate will obviously know how I've been swamped!
And I think you are all eagerly anticipating some Aragorn/Buffy/Éowyn disasters…
Review responses:
Allen Pitt - depends on how he plans to do it…
Anyanka of the Ocean - okay! Understanding now. Thanks! And awww!
Boo - I do not think Éowyn is going to challenge Buffy in that way!
ChibiChibi - thanks! And I totally understand, I have been swamped as well. (Sighs…) Oh well… hope you like my little love triangle numero 2!
GoldenRat - depends on whose POV you're looking at.
GreyLadyBast - An interesting interpretation to be sure. Okay, first off, it is only ONE line. ONE line out of how many hundred thousand? Two, the movie completely sidestepped it. Three, it's a line that much significance is placed on without reason. It was largely a coincidence. The number couldn't be too big or too small for obvious reasons. The Hobbits were allowed go by Gandalf, Boromir was joining them grudgingly, Aragorn had to go, Gandalf told Elrond he was going and that left two races unrepresented hence Gimli and Legolas's inclusion. And I merged book and movie verse to create my council. Four, I don't think it is a plot hole. Fifth, Buffy is not a Mary Sue. Mary Sue's are OC's who usurp everything. Six, I resent the word 'crap' being used in relation to my fic. This is my interpretation of a book. It is not canon though I have chosen to try to make it realistic. The minute Buffy landed in ME, the LotR part became AU. In addition, the Nine riders were not the only danger they faced. And it is a little silly to base the number of the company solely on that. I mean there was Sauron, Saruman, orcs, Uruk-hai, Gollum, cave trolls, Balrogs etc. Now, I could fix this 'glaring mistake' but as I don't consider it a mistake and therefore unworthy of a re-write, I am leaving it the way it is.
Kit-Kat - thanks!
Light Spinner - thanks! And yes, the whole triangle thing is going to get messy. Just not in the way you might have expected. And I think Aragorn is going to use this one to his advantage.
Lizdarcy2 - You are so underestimating him!
Mari - thanks! Yes, I think you should feel sorry for her. And when did I say that about Aragorn and Denethor? I can't remember. But about the Paths of the Dead… closely kept secret there… And she probably is getting tired of calling a witch. But do remember what she was accused of and thrown out of Rohan for…
Nikos - thanks! And the warg raid will happen.
Pamie884 - thanks! And thanks for your comments on Éowyn. You are the first person to comment on my attempts to get inside her head! Glad it's plausible!
PrecariousPersonata - thanks! And his 'plans' are certainly unique. And Buffy will get jealous, somewhat, but she has no idea what Aragorn has in store for her!
Rosie - thanks and welcome! A lot of people are wondering what Galadriel's message means. However something you said in your review is kinda prophetic in regard to the sequel.
ShawThang - thanks! And of course, they are going to cause more trouble! That's what hotheads tend to do! A lot. And yes, Aragorn will be playing this a little. And you are definitely right; Éowyn does not stand a chance!
Sukera - huh? Explain please!
Talina - welcome! And thanks! And yes, there is a hint for the sequel there! Well spotted! Pity I am not telling what… thanks for your comments on 'A Light' but someone has asked me if they could continue it and I said yes. I don't know when they plan on posting, but it was around a month ago or so that I gave them permission… watch that space…
Tenshikoneko03 - thank you! And I didn't mean to give you nightmares (shrugs apologetically) And what do you think he is going to do? And yes, there is a very good chance Buffy will hang him up by his toes, but I think he has it under control….
And major thanks to:
Aleviel, Avendesoraburns, BuffyandDracoLover, Fenn, General Mac, Goldenshadows, Haley, icybananna89, jumping-jo, Lindiel Eryn, Lunawolf, Night-Owl123, Siren's Call, The Lady Reaper of the Shadows, Wild320,
CHAPTER FORTY-TWO: SHIELDMAIDEN
"A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to get its pants on."
- Winston Churchill
Meduseld, Edoras, Rohan, 3019 TA, March 2 - night.
After Éowyn had seen the children safely tucked into bed, she debated whether to visit her old friend or not. In the end, curiosity won out, and having assigned Buffy her rooms, easily found herself at the warrior maiden's door.
Knocking somewhat timidly, unsure what to expect from the other woman after so long, she was so lost in thought that she gasped when the door opened. Buffy was clad only in her sleeping clothes, Éowyn had obviously caught her just before she went to bed.
"Éowyn?" Buffy said in surprise, "What are you doing here? At this hour?"
Éowyn shifted uncomfortably, but gathered her courage, "I came to talk," she replied as calmly as befitted a Lady of Rohan.
Buffy blinked and rubbed her eyes tiredly, but opened the door wider, "Come in then," she said, allowing the lady into her rooms.
Éowyn could not help but look around curiously. Buffy's travelling clothes were tossed over the back of a chair, her pack was sticking out from under the bed, and her weapons were casually placed on top of a dresser. That typically warrior way of tossing everything aside clashed with the comb by the mirror, and the sleeve of a dress sticking out from the open pack. Éowyn wondered was this typical for the other woman. Buffy was the only female warrior that she had ever known, and since she wanted to be one as well, she could not help but look at everything Buffy did with curiosity and longing.
Buffy gestured for Éowyn to take the chair, and sank down onto the bed, "So Éowyn, what are you doing here? It will be a busy day in the morning."
"I am sorry," Éowyn said, "I did not wish to disturb your rest. But it has been so long since I have last seen you. I could not restrain myself from coming."
Buffy waved away her apologies, "It's alright. Théoden could not help rehashing the past either. Though I do see that he managed to tame you somewhat. On the outside at least." Her voice softened, "How do you fare after Théodred's death? It must have been a hard blow."
"He died as a warrior should," Éowyn said stiffly, unwilling to think on her cousin's bloodied form.
"He died in battle?" Buffy repeated, sure that she had heard that he had been brought home ere he died. But then again, Éowyn had always had a one track mind.
"It is a family tradition." Éowyn said tightly, and Buffy backed off. She still remembered a young girl's unrelenting determination to be a warrior.
"I am a Shield-maiden of the House of Eorl!" Éowyn declared proudly, "I fear him not! And if he seeks to harm me, I shall show him my steel!"
At least, she had not run Gríma through after all, Buffy thought, but I fear he did more damage to her alive than he would have dead.
"Éowyn, it's late. Let's just cut to the chase and say what you want to say." Buffy said, "I do want to talk to you, but Théoden's ordered the city to go to Helms Deep tomorrow and it's going to be a long day."
"I want you to help me," Éowyn said bluntly, leaning forward in the chair, "You are a warrior. You will be allowed to fight. I want you to teach me what I do not know. I am skilled with a sword now. Help me to become a warrior."
Buffy winced inwardly, thinking of Théoden's reaction if she slayer-ised his niece. And decided that Éowyn had the right to make her own decisions.
"Éowyn," she began quietly but earnestly, "Are you sure you know what you're letting yourself in for? Being a warrior…. It isn't all glory. In fact, there is generally very little glory and a lot of blood, death and suffering. I never chose this path myself. It was chosen for me. And while I have accepted what I am, and what I can do, if I had the choice, I wouldn't be doing it."
"Not even when it is your family, your people, your country at stake?" Éowyn demanded, "Do not give me the same platitudes my uncle has given me since you left. I care not for suffering."
Buffy sighed; this was going to be harder than she thought. "Yes, I would fight for those I care for. However, it is not the only way. Killing changes you. It always does. Moreover, you can think you know what you are setting yourself up for, but the truth is, you never do. And Éowyn this war is going to be huge. Chances are that we will all die fighting it. Are you so willing to throw away your life? Before you've even lived?"
"I know the realties of war, Ell- Buffy," Éowyn said sharply, "Do not take me for the same delicate maiden my uncle and brother see me as."
"That is the last thing I would take you for, Éowyn," Buffy said with some amusement, eyeing blue eyes spitting with fire, "It doesn't mean that I'm eager to help you get yourself killed. You're like a child throwing herself into an adult's game. Do you want to know what being a warrior is like? Well, there's very few of us who do not wish for peace. But I think the worst thing is that every day you wake up, it is the same question that haunts you- Is today the day I die- that's no way to live Éowyn."
"I am not a child!" Éowyn cried.
"I never said that you were," Buffy said wearily, "But until you've actually seen a battle or a skirmish, you're still a green warrior. And the more experienced ones always try to look out for the new warriors, because, as a rule, they do not know what they are doing. Look, Éowyn, I will spar with you. I will help you learn a few new tricks. But I am telling you this right now; Théoden is pulling everyone back to Helms Deep. And so Saruman's army is going to come there. Either way, you're going to see bloodshed before the end. And if you get yourself killed just to prove yourself, then I have obviously overestimated your intelligence. Listen to reason, and wise up before you throw yourself into the deep end. Once you have some experience under your belt, then everything is different. But don't be so eager to throw away your innocence. Because you can never get it back."
"I can fight!"
"I know you can. But listen to my advice, because I am ten times more lenient than Théoden will be if he finds that you plan on helping out. You have to watch your own back as well, Éowyn, that's all I am saying. You cannot go out there with a death wish. Because if you do, it will be fulfilled."
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Whatever reply Éowyn might have made was lost when a knock came to the door. And after a moment, Gandalf poked his head in.
Standing up, Éowyn gave the slayer a brief nod before she swept out of the room with nary a word. The wizard watched her go with knowing eyes. "Ah, the impetuousness of youth," he said, "'Tis strange indeed when the slayer herself promotes caution."
Buffy threw her cushion at him, hitting him in the face. He glared at her reprovingly, but let it pass.
He closed the door, and took the chair that Éowyn had just vacated, "We have much to talk of, Buffy Dagnir," he said without preamble.
Buffy flopped back onto the bed, staring at the ceiling, "You know, I'm not really in the mood for any more heart to heart talks, Gandalf," she said, "Can't this wait?"
"Well, I would have thought that Narya could not wait, but then again, you always insist on being different." the wizard said slyly
Buffy banged her head off the bedpost, "What?" she said, "Oh no! Not that again! It's bad enough that I'm stuck minding the damn thing!"
"When are you going to accept that it is yours?" Gandalf asked calmly, "Because I dare say that you should know how to control it at least."
"I don't want to learn anything!" Buffy said fiercely, "What I do want is for you to take it back! Don't you think I have enough responsibility as it is?"
Gandalf did not waver in the face of the slayer's rant, Narya chose you, and it cannot now be undone. You must accept this, Buffy, Narya is bound to you and you to it. It will defend you to your dying breath. You cannot run from this. It will not let you."
"Well, that's comforting," Buffy snapped, "Look, I don't want this. I do not understand why of all people it picked me, but I really want it to just change its mind, and leave me the hell alone. And I really don't appreciate you trying to force this on me."
Gandalf just raised one bushy eyebrow, "I am merely trying to prepare you for what is coming, my girl," he said, an annoying sparkle in his eyes, "You go to war, Dagnir. And Narya will not let danger come so close to you now that it is free from all constraints. Elrond and Galadriel will experience much the same problem. In fact, they are already experiencing it. The power of the Three has been unleashed, and I do not think that either Imladris or Lothlórien have ever been safer. Nevertheless, Elrond and Galadriel are struggling to cope with the new Vilya and Nenya. They have been so long tied to their bearer, that I wager they are now taking them by surprise in their power. Narya has not been so long tied to you, but it was the first ring freed and your death the thing to do it. I would try to control your temper if I were you. You bear the Ring of Fire, and I do not think that Théoden would take it well if you burned down his halls."
Buffy stared at him in dismay, "Tell me you are joking," she pleaded, "'Cos I really don't like what you are saying at the moment."
"Buffy," Gandalf said, standing, "You wield as much power now as a queen does. I only tell you to use it wisely. Especially since you do not have the slightest idea what you are doing. If Narya acts on your behalf, chances are that you will not realise it before it is done."
Before Buffy could demand more information, Gandalf went to the door and opened it, just as Aragorn had his hand raised to knock. "Ah," he said to the bemused slayer, "It seems our guests have arrived."
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"I am so not going to get any sleep tonight, am I?" Buffy complained as Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas trooped into the room to join her and the wizard.
"Be calm, Buffy," Gandalf said with a sly smile due to lack of room and chairs, Aragorn was forced to sit on the bed beside Buffy. The slayer seemed too frustrated to shy away from his presence, instead looking at Gandalf with a decidedly unamused expression.
"Now, I think we all agree that Théoden's decision is a bad one," Gandalf said, "And so we must make our own plans."
"Us and what army, Gandalf?" Buffy asked dryly, "And why could this not wait until the morning?"
"He chooses to flee, thinking that it will save his people. That fortress has saved them before." Aragorn said, "He underestimates the threat."
"He does not want open war," Gandalf said, "But at Helms Deep, the defences must hold. We cannot allow Rohan to fall. If either Gondor or the Mark fall, then the last realm standing shall be crushed between Saruman and Sauron, and the last bastions of Free Men destroyed."
"We know the defences have to hold, Gandalf," Buffy said, "But unless Erkenbrand and his forces have made it there before us and ahead of any pursuers, we'll be stuck with only what guard Théoden has left in Edoras. And that's not enough."
"I do not think we can rely on luck," Legolas added, "One should never underestimate one of the Istari."
"I fear Legolas is right," Gandalf admitted, "I know not what devilry Saruman will throw at us. But it matters not, Helms Deep must be held."
"You make it sound like you will not be there." Gimli said, "What are you planning, Gandalf?"
"Only what I must, Master Dwarf, only what I must."
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Buffy could only sigh wearily when Legolas stubbornly remained behind, and she stoked the small fire as wondered what he wanted. "Don't you have an elsewhere to be?" she asked.
"I think not," the Elf replied, "And I wonder at your calm. Have you eyes? I am not the only one who saw how Éowyn looks at Aragorn? She thinks him unclaimed. Are you not angry at all?"
Buffy's smile was wan as she sank into a chair, pulling a blanket around her, "How can I be angry with her for the same crime I committed myself?" she said softly.
Legolas just looked at her, "And yet some part of you calls him yours. You would not be so angry with him the whole time if you did not feel something."
Buffy glared at him, "It wasn't like that. I was never angry with him." she paused, seeing the Elf's incredulous expression, "Okay, that's a lie. Maybe I was just a teensy weensy bit mad at him. But he so deserved it. And besides, Éowyn is a grown woman, she can like who she wants to like." But her voice tightened traitorously as she said it.
"Aragorn cannot return her feelings, Buffy," Legolas said soothingly, "Are you going to let her lose her heart, only to have it broken?"
"Maybe she's exactly the type of woman Aragorn should be going for," Buffy said quietly, voicing her own innermost thoughts, "She's certainly stubborn enough for his tastes. She's the niece of a king, sister to the heir to the throne, beautiful, a Shieldmaiden… why should he not look?"
"You plan to let her regard for him go unchallenged?" Legolas asked in disbelief.
"Legolas," Buffy said wearily but firmly, "Besides… other considerations… I'm a killer. It is pretty much public knowledge. I have no real connections, I'm not nobly born- and no alliances come with the package and certainly no dowry except a death wish. And I certainly have no talent for diplomacy. Also, I'm not exactly mommy material. Kings seldom marry for love, meldiren, and we don't live in a fairytale. Even if we were both free, Aragorn is going to have enough trouble getting his throne and keeping it to try to deal with any unrest over his murderess lover. I am not stupid. I don't know why you keep pushing for this, but I really wish you would just shut up."
"Buffy, I…" Legolas began but the slayer just pointed at the door.
"I don't care, Greenleaf," she said sternly, crossing over to Legolas and dragging him out the door, "Good night, and do not speak of this to me again."
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Meduseld, Edoras, Rohan, 3019 TA, March 3.
Aragorn made it his business to rise early the next morning, and he lingered outside Buffy's chambers until he heard the tell tale signs of someone moving around inside them. Knocking softly, knowing she would hear it easily, he waited.
She blinked in surprise at the sight of him, but let him in when he asked. "Do my rooms have a 'please disturb as much as possible' sign of them?" she groused, "'Cos I got to say, I've never seen such traffic in and out of my bedroom before." She caught Aragorn's smirk and then replayed her words, wincing mentally, "Okay, just ignore that last bit," she said.
"As you command, so do I obey," Aragorn said drolly, causing her to roll her eyes.
"What do you want this early, Aragorn?" she asked.
"I have a problem," he said, careful to keep his voice sincere. For this to work, he had to play this out skilfully. "Of a personal nature… It concerns the Lady Éowyn."
That got her attention and the bait was working. "Éowyn?" she repeated, "What problem do you have with her?" she asked, belting her sword and knives around her waist.
"Have you noticed how she looks at me?" Aragorn said innocently, "It seems that for some reason, she has fixed on me as her object."
"So the mooning eyes say," Buffy replied, braiding her hair back into a thick coil, which she then pinned to her head, not wanting to repeat Glorfindel's infamous mistake, which led to his also infamous death, "Why are you coming to me with this?"
"Because I know you were friends of old with Éowyn," Aragorn answered, sitting down on a chair, "I think that you are one of few who can understand my dilemma. She is a magnificent lady, beautiful and strong, but she does not see me for who I am. Only this 'Lord Aragorn'."
"You are a lord," Buffy said, "And on his way to being king. Methinks you will have to get used to fawning."
"Buffy, be serious! You know this is a dilemma," Aragorn admonished, and then set his trap, "And surely you can see my problem. Lady Éowyn is the king's niece. If I spurn her advances then I insult Théoden King. With matters as unstable as they currently stand, you cannot but see that giving the king any more insult would be a bad thing."
It worked as he hoped it would. Hazel eyes looked thoughtful and though she grimaced, she finally nodded in agreement, "Yep, I can see your point. I think you kind of forget the part where Éowyn runs you through with her sword and then her brother finishes the job though. Yep, definitely a dilemma. And one that I so cannot help you with. Perhaps you should start practicing your grovelling for forgiveness routine?"
"Buffy!" Aragorn said sternly, "This is no laughing matter."
"I know that," she replied even as Aragorn stood and took her hand in his. She eyed him reproachfully.
"Buffy…." he began awkwardly, careful to keep the mischievous glint in his eyes veiled from her, "I-I have an idea that could solve this problem without giving insult to anyone…"
Her eyebrow rose in a startling imitation of Elrond's infamous look, "You do?" she repeated incredulously, "Then you have a better imagination than I do, 'cos I can't see a way out of this mess without treading on someone's toes."
"It is an idea, mellon," Aragorn said carefully, "And would require your cooperation to work."
Buffy gave him a strange look at his hesitant tone, and asked warily, "And this idea would be…?"
"It is the only one that I can conceive of that will not hurt Éowyn or insult the King," Aragorn explained, "And I think it can work admirably well. If we can pull it off. I think it worthy of the twins myself."
"Whoa!" Buffy said, "Slow down, Aragorn. What is this great idea exactly? 'Cos you're doing an admirable job of not saying what it is."
He looked at her pleadingly, "Well…" he began, "Please hear me out, without hurting me first."
"Fine, I promise not to whack on you," Buffy agreed, both curious and wary, "Spill it, ranger."
"Well, Lady Éowyn's infatuation can only be spurred onwards if she thinks me unattached." Aragorn said softly, watching Buffy's reactions, "She is a woman of honour though and would forget about me entirely if I was attached…."
"But you said yourself that you're not," Buffy pointed out, "And if I find out that you've been lying to me, all bets are off buddy!"
"Buffy, all I need is to pretend that I am attached to someone else, and this crisis will pass without notice."
"And how are you going to manage that?" the slayer demanded.
"Well, I was thinking that because you travelled with us, that perhaps if we pretended to Éowyn- only Éowyn - that we are betrothed, she would back off gracefully."
"You what!" Buffy said, jerking out of his hold, "Are you absolutely out of your mind! No, no and triple no!"
"Buffy, please listen to me," Aragorn pleaded, grabbing her by the arms, "I need this help mellon. I hardly think Gandalf can help me with this plan. Or Gimli. Or Legolas."
"Now, you've just given me this really weird image of Gimli in a dress," Buffy said in disgust, nose wrinkling, "Gross. Thank you so much for that nightmare!"
"Buffy, please. I beg this favour of you," Aragorn said pleadingly, forcing her to meet his eyes, "Please… It shall not be for long. A few days at most. And nothing untoward is involved. All I have to do is say that you hold my heart to Éowyn and it is done. Do you not wish for me to let her down gently?"
Buffy could not resist the pleading note in his voice, combined with the puppy dog eyes, and though her better judgement warned her against it, she reluctantly caved.
"Fine," she ground out, "Tell her whatever you want. As long as it is just her. And that you realise that this has absolutely no effect on our current relationship. No cuddling, no smirking, no nothing. Got it?"
Aragorn smiled wholeheartedly. Success! "Of course not," he agreed with an admirably straight face, "Nothing improper whatsoever. I thank you for this, Buffy," he said, kissing her on the cheek and just barely ducking her swat with her hairbrush.
She glared at him and he smiled winningly at her, "This puts my mind much at ease," he said, "Now that I will not have Théoden King after my head any more than he already is. I thank you again, Buffy. You shall not regret this."
"Too late." she said dryly, as the ranger went out the door, "I think I already am…"
And Aragorn, once out in the corridor, broke out into a triumphant smirk. Oh, even the twins would be impressed by this one….
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Early that morn, Háma stood outside Meduseld in front of a crowd of worried townsfolk. Ignoring Gandalf's disapproving eyes; he carried out the commands of the king. Calling out, he said, "By order of the king, the city must empty! We make for the refuge of Helm's Deep tomorrow at dawn. Do not burden yourselves with treasures or many belongings. Take only what provisions you need."
Instantly, there was uproar and Háma was forced to bellow over the shouts and cries of the townsfolk, "Please! Be calm! Helms Deep is safe! But please, pack your things and be ready for the morn! Please calm down!"
Eventually, the uproar died away and the townsfolk scurried away to pack and make ready. It was not the first time that they had been forced to Helms Deep but this was very short notice.
His forehead furrowing, Gandalf watched on with a sense of growing dread. But then he turned on his heel, and returned to the halls. He had much to do and his time was growing ever shorter.
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Later that day, Aragorn joined Gimli in his pursuit of a good tavern. He might not have his Dwarven friend's fondness for ale, but he certainly had some business to tend to - and some rumours to spread.
It was not hard.
Men preparing for war were gladly indulging in their ale and mead, and tongues wagged faster here than anywhere else save the servants' quarters at Meduseld. Gossip was a truly wonderful thing when you wanted to get a message across, Aragorn mused; after all, it tended to travel much faster than messengers did and could reach everyone in the entire town in under an hour.
Gimli and Legolas soon left him; the Elf dragging the Dwarf away from the 'accursed stink of that intolerable pipeweed' that the Elf just could not stand. Aragorn preferred it that way. 'Twas why he had brought his pipe with him in the first place.
And so with many of the Rohirrim looking for tales behind the myth of Thorongil, and others looking for information on Elliandre, Aragorn had everyone just where he wanted them.
Therefore, he 'accidentally' let slip exactly what he wanted them to hear. "Ah yes, Elliandre…" he said, puffing away on his pipe and with a devilish sparkle in his eye that everyone that knew him knew meant Trouble. "Yes, my beloved lady is quite the enigma."
And with various other dropped 'hints', Aragorn soon had the entire tavern buzzing with the news. And the townsfolk ate it up.
Before long, 'twas on everyone's lips that the Lord Aragorn and the Lady Buffy were betrothed these past few years. And of course, as was the way with gossip, the original whisper tended to mutate when it got to the tenth telling, and by the hundredth telling…. Well, 'twas safe to say that things had been blown entirely out of proportion….
The rumour mill carried it efficiently around the city, with much exaggeration, as the tale grew more and more twisted.
Some said that the Lord and Lady were already married… Others said that they had had a child together…. Others said that the mysterious Lady of the Wood had married them herself… Others said that the Lady Elliandre was related to the Elf that had travelled with them… Others said that she was of the Steward's line of Gondor… Some of the more crazy retellings had more romantic leanings… saying that they had met while running from a dragon or some such monster….
But however twisted they became, they all agreed on the same thing. Lord Aragorn and Lady Buffy were very much in love.
And in another tavern, Legolas and Gimli happened to be confronted on the basis of some of these rumours, leading to much choking on drinks and surprised sputtering.
Curiosity warred with disbelief and a looming sense of dread, they searched high and low for Aragorn, and they found the smug ranger lounging about his quarters.
Legolas just took one look at him and froze, "Aragorn! Tell me you did not!" he hissed, closing the door behind him.
Aragorn just smirked, "I take it you have heard then?" he asked, "Good. Very good indeed."
"She will kill you if you are responsible for this, laddie," the Dwarf warned.
"You shall be lucky if all she does is kill you," Legolas said, "Are you mad?"
"No," Aragorn said, with an all too knowing glint in his eye, "I am playing like Elladan, Elrohir or you for that matter would play it. 'When all else fails, cheat.' Did I not hear you say that one time? Or several?"
Legolas glared at him, "You know very well that was after the twins laid the blame on me for turning Glorfindel's hair purple. I had no part on it. It was only simple revenge."
"I am sure," Aragorn said in a tone that clearly said that he did not believe a word, "But relax; I know what I am doing. And I will deal with the consequences when the time comes."
Sighing, Legolas shook his head, and then broke out in a devious smile, "Well I suppose that I ought to congratulate you. You are finally learning to use that brain of yours."
"Let us just hope that his head will still be attached to his shoulders when Buffy is done with him," Gimli muttered, causing all three to burst into light laughter.
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Buffy tired desperately to argue with Gandalf as he and what was left of the fellowship bringing up the rear. All about them, people were gathering their belongings and readying for the journey but she cared for none of it. "Okay, you just so cannot get up and leave!" Buffy said, tugging on the fast moving wizard's sleeve, "Hello? War coming? Remember? A wizard just might be a little bit of help!"
Gandalf continued to stride determinedly to the stables, "This errand is urgent, Buffy," was his only reply.
"Come on!" Buffy exclaimed in frustration, "You're the only one who can half convince Théoden to do anything without totally annoying him. You must come to Helms Deep!"
Gimli harrumphed behind her, "Helm's Deep! They flee to the mountains when they should stand and fight. Who will defend them if not their king?"
Legolas gave him a teasing sidelong glance, "You live in the mountains, Gimli," he pointed out, "Do you not retreat to them when you are threatened?"
Aragorn spoke up before Gimli could do more than glare at the Elf, "He is only doing what he thinks is best for his people. Helm's Deep has saved them in the past." he said as they entered the richly crafted stables.
Gandalf did not pause, "I know, but there is no way out of that ravine. Théoden is walking into a trap. We all know that. And we all know that he thinks he is leading them to safety. What they will get is a massacre. Théoden has a strong will but I fear for him. I fear for the very survival of Rohan." He silenced Buffy before she opened her mouth to speak and looked intently at Aragorn, "He will need you before the end, Aragorn. The people of Rohan will need you. The defences have to hold."
Aragorn nodded solemnly, he knew his duty. "They will hold." he said firmly.
Gandalf let Shadowfax loose from the confines of his stall, stroking the soft silvery coat, and his voice was sardonic as he spoke, "The Grey Pilgrim... That is what they used to call me. Three hundred lives of men I have walked this earth and now I have no time…" he sighed, mounted Shadowfax, and looked at his gathered friends, "Good luck… My search will not be in vain." he said as he urged the Lord of horses forward, "Look to my coming at first light on the fifth day! At dawn, look to the East…!" he said as Aragorn opened the stall gate for him.
"Go." he said softly. Beside him, Buffy held her tongue but sharp eyes met hers, and the wizard touched his ring finger in a silent gesture. She shook her head, and he just looked at her.
'Use it if you must!' Gandalf practically shouted in her mind, causing her to wince and then he urged Shadowfax into a canter, causing Legolas to jump back as horse and rider sped out of the stable, and out of Edoras.
Buffy sighed, "Well, let's hope that he hurries back. And I am so not explaining this to Théoden!"
Aragorn placed a hand on her shoulder comfortingly, "He will come back."
Buffy looked at him and then looked in the direction that Gandalf had gone, "But will he be in time?" she asked softly.
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Caras Galadhon, Lothlórien, 3019 TA, March 3.
Boromir bowed to the Lord and Lady of the Wood, "I thank you for all the help you have given me, my lady, my lord." he said formally.
Galadriel smiled softly at him, "A hard road lies before you, son of Gondor," she said, "And we have given you what aid we can. Are you ready?"
"I stand ready," Boromir answered, fingering the hilt of his new sword, "As ready as I can be anyway."
"Then depart from this place and may all the blessing of Elves and Men and all the Free Peoples of Middle Earth go with you, Boromir." she said, and Celeborn echoed her sentiments.
"Haldir will lead you to the borders, and show you the easiest route," Celeborn said, "May we meet again in happier times."
"Hopefully we will," Boromir replied, "And maybe we shall meet again at my city and rejoice that the Shadow is gone. Goodbye."
"Namárië," Galadriel called as Haldir led him away, "And may your quest succeed."
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Éowyn lifted the lid on the chest and pulled out the sword she had convinced Éomer to have made for her when she was sixteen. Buffy was to meet her here in just a little while, for a long overdue sparring session and she was looking forward to testing her mettle against her old tutor.
She had persuaded Éomer to help train her after Elliandre… no, Buffy, had left. Her uncle had seemed content to have her learn only the very basics in the area of warfare and she could not abide that. There was something relaxing in moving through the forms with a blade, allowing her to dream that she might one day escape the confines that were slowly killing her.
And now Buffy had come back and with her the hope that her dreams might be realised ere long. Never had Elliandre considered warfare below a woman's notice, never had she been bested by any of the Rohirrim. And she certainly had never called Éowyn's dreams foolish.
She had listened to the older woman's warning the other night, and from knowing her character somewhat, she knew that it not been an attempt by Buffy to put her off, but to allow her to make an informed choice. She cared little for what hardships Buffy had described though. The life of a warrior could not be worse than the life she already led. 'The White Lady of Rohan' was a myth. That woman was just a pretty doll to be put on display and do what she was told. But Éowyn was a Shieldmaiden and she could not tolerate that.
She deserved to be respected, deserved to be allowed to use her skills when she wished. But instead, it had been brave Éomer who had shouldered the burden with Théodred and defended the borders while the king fell into darkness. And she was relegated to nursemaid in a pit of snakes.
Eyes narrowing at the memory of Gríma Wormtongue, and disgusted with herself for having feared him, she unsheathed her sword and began moving through the practice motions.
Spinning around, she was shocked when another blade met her own in a clash of steel. Lord Aragorn stood before her, having blocked her blow with a dagger. What was he doing here? She wondered, the man moved far too quietly to be heard most times and it was a skill she was beginning to regret him having.
"You have some skill with a blade." he said, and coming back to her senses, she swung her sword in a swift movement and knocked his blade aside, gaining the upper hand again.
"I am to spar with Lady Buffy," she replied, keeping her blade pointed at him.
He merely looked at her. And seeing that she was not going to get any good out of him, she stepped back and sheathed her sword, "Women of this country learned long ago that those without swords may still die upon them." she said coldly, though her heart fluttered strangely, "I fear neither death nor pain."
He stepped closer, and his tone was gentle, "What do you fear, my lady?"
She tensed, and then spoke the honest truth, "A cage." she said softly, looking at him, "To stay behind bars until use and old age accept them and all chance of valour has gone beyond recall or desire."
Aragorn looked at her appraisingly, "You are a daughter of kings, a Shieldmaiden of Rohan." he said with some certainty in his tone, sheathing his knife, "I do not think that will be your fate."
He spotted Buffy come in through another door, and saw her stop in surprise at the position he and Éowyn were in. Her eyes narrowed slightly, and her glare fell on him for a moment.
He smiled softly at Éowyn, "It seems that your sparring partner is here now, my lady," he said respectfully, "And so do I take my leave of you." He bowed to her and walked away, and Éowyn could not stop herself from following his path with her eyes. Could he be the one?
Buffy came up to her, and there was a strange light in her hazel eyes as she looked at Éowyn, and her smile was not as warm as it had been previously. She nudged Éowyn out of her daze and looked at her strangely, "Are you ready to begin?"
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Aragorn stopped beside the door when Théoden entered and gestured for him to come forward. His gaze drifted back to where Buffy was approaching Éowyn. But Théoden King was insistent and pulled him aside.
"I hear many troubling things about you, my lord Aragorn," Théoden began without preamble, "The city runs rife with rumours."
Aragorn blinked innocently, "Rumours, my lord?" he asked, "I have not heard any."
Théoden gave him a disbelieving look, "But I would wager that you would know enough to tell me if they are the truth or not?"
"'Twould depend on the nature and substance of the rumours, my lord," Aragorn replied easily. "How can I answer what I do not know?"
"It seems that you and that warg of a woman are behaving most improperly." Théoden said sternly, "I will not tolerate it under my roof. Not her."
Aragorn's eyes narrowed, "You know not of what you speak," he said sharply, grey eyes boring into Théoden's menacingly, "Buffy is an honourable woman and does not deserve to be slandered by you." Anger at the implication made it difficult to control his temper, "Do not say such things again Théoden King or I will not be responsible for what happens to you. Especially if she should hear it."
Théoden looked at the seething ranger in surprise. And wondered if he had been wrong after all. When Háma had told him that Aragorn, whom Éowyn had designs on seemingly, was flaunting his casual lover, he had intended to put a stop to it. But Aragorn's defence of Buffy was stronger than a mere mistress would warrant. Could the rumours of their betrothal be true? A would be king betrothed to that menace? If he ever gained a throne, her antics would lead to a rebellion within a month!
But Aragorn seemed to care for her and that would not do. Théoden could not say that he was in any way fond of Denethor, Steward of Gondor, and he supposed that Aragorn could not be much worse. But if Buffy was to be his queen! Well, that changed everything.
If Buffy was ever placed on a throne, then relations between Gondor and Rohan would be strained at best, murderous at worst. No, Éowyn would make him a much better wife and be a better queen and if he saw things right, if Aragorn ever gained the kingship then his advisors would soon make him see the sense of things. If Éowyn wanted Aragorn for her own, then he would help her in all endeavours.
Buffy was simply too volatile, too untrustworthy. He only wondered how long it would take for Aragorn to see it like that too.
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She nudged Éowyn out of her daze and looked at her strangely, "Are you ready to begin?"
Éowyn jerked out of her reverie and looked at Buffy who was eyeing her peculiarly. "Ah, yes," she said, fumbling to appear collected, "Of course, Buffy."
Shrewd hazel eyes looked at her knowingly, "Man troubles?" Buffy asked, careful to keep her voice without infliction.
Éowyn's eyes widened and a faint flush came into her cheeks, "Nay, it is not so," she denied, and sought to distract the other woman from the embarrassing topic, "And yours? How do you fare in the game of love?"
Buffy looked at her for a moment, and then said, "If you're looking for hints on how to court, I would pick a better love life if I was you. Lately, mine's been rated PG for pretty grim."
Éowyn looked at her in puzzlement and Buffy just nudged her and said, "Come on. Time's wasting and we have some work to do."
Éowyn grinned, as eager as she always was, "Then teach me some more," she said gaily, slipping into the proper stance.
Across the room, Aragorn watched mesmerised. There was no doubt that Éowyn was highly skilled with the blade, but he knew that Buffy was holding back. She nearly always did when sparring with another. Well, unless it was Glorfindel anyway. But the Lord of the Golden Flower could handle himself.
They dodged nimbly and thrust and parried, dancing around in a graceful ring as Buffy put Éowyn through her paces. They seemed to him to be two golden lionesses, those graceful predators that stalked the plains and savannahs of Harad.
Tutor and student, both were magnificent. And 'twas only reluctantly that he could tear himself away. But he did not want to be any distraction. He feared that Éowyn's wish of fighting would come true the hard way and he would not get in the way of the learning of any new skill Buffy could impart to her.
And so with one last backwards glance, he left.
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Edoras, Rohan, 3019 TA, March 4.
Fearful and nervous, at the crack of dawn the emptying of Edoras had been done and they were on the road.
Théoden King headed the party, riding with his guards at the forefront but to Buffy, Éowyn seemed to be more aware of the people's unrest and gathering fear. And with great aplomb, she managed to diffuse the situation and ease their minds. Whether she realised it or not, the people trusted her to lead them. Whereas Théoden had been in growing shadow for many years, and 'twas disconcerting to see him so hale and fit suddenly.
But now they went to Helms Deep. And who knew what the outcome would be from this course of action?
Buffy could only hope that things would work out okay and she deliberately ignored the cold, uneasy feeling in the pit of her stomach.
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"Friends may come and go, but enemies accumulate."
Unknown
Orthanc, Isengard, 3019 TA, March 4.
In his tower at Isengard, Saruman pondered on the latest happenings.
His Lord had sent him a boon; it seemed that he had not heard of his failure with the Periannath, but the gift that he had sent would ensure Helms Deep fell to him. He had his own surprises of course, and the exploding powder that he had fashioned would destroy the Deeping Wall with ease. But he was not above having even more strength at his disposal.
And after one encounter with Sauron's boon to him, he knew that it had strength indeed. His lord has given it a set of orders that he could not countermand but he cared little. It would enough damage as it was to please him. And the thought of the foolish Rohirrim brats retreating in fear pleased him greatly.
Calling Gríma to him, he listened again to Théoden's most likely plans, and his little worm repeated them faithfully, "Théoden will not stay at Edoras. It is vulnerable, he knows this… He will expect an attack on the city. They will flee to Helm's Deep, the great fortress of Rohan. It is a dangerous road to take through the mountains. They will be slow... They will have women, the elderly and children with them. They cannot move fast…"
"And his Riders are scarce you say?" Saruman said thoughtfully.
"Yes, Éomer took many with him when he left." Gríma replied, "And many more left to join Elfhelm and Erkenbrand. He cannot have more than five hundred warriors with him at the most."
The wizard chuckled coldly, "Five hundred?" he repeated scornfully, "They shall be massacred. Not that I am opposed to that outcome…."
He looked at Gríma and then stood and a fell and cunning light was in his eyes. Deep into the works of Isengard he walked, until he found the orc he wanted. "Théoden is vulnerable to attack… Send out your warg riders. Kill as many as you can…."
Behind him, Gríma shuddered and cowered at the orc's malicious laughter…
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A/N: So? What do you think? Feedback wanted! Please READ and REVIEW!
Next chapter: Troubles on the road to Helms Deep…. Legolas gets a surprise… news come to the Hidden Valley…. And Buffy gets some devastating news….
Elvish:
Dagnir - Slayer
Meldiren - my friend
Mellon - friend
Namárië - farewell
Periannath - hobbits
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Caras Galadhon - City of the Trees. The city in Lothlórien where Galadriel and Celeborn reside.
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.
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.
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. Now, bound to Buffy.
Nenya - The Elven ring of Water. Galadriel is its Keeper.
Orthanc - the great Númenórean tower in the Circle of Isengard. Home of Saruman.
Vilya - the Ring of Air. Strongest of the three Elven Rings made by Celebrimbor. Borne by Elrond.
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