From the position in Éomer's arms, Lothíriel caught herself looking up at him. From this position it was little wonder that nearly every woman in their right mind didn't find him to be the most attractive of men. She couldn't help but notice that he looked a bit more serene as they moved up the hill than he had been during their tiff. His earthy scent wafted towards her nose and she found herself relaxing. She had to admit that despite his shifting moods, simply his presence put her at ease. 'His easy manner with his people and Éowyn that I witnessed as a horse leads me to feel we'd be well matched. Now, if only something could be done about his hasty judgements.' As she realized where her mind was going she shook her head, as if that would dispel her treacherous thoughts. She opened her mouth, about to demand she be put down before she lost her mind when Éomer spoke softly.

"I'm sorry for offending you earlier." He glanced down at her to see her mouth open before she forced it closed. "I did not mean to insult your intelligence, it is simply uncommon for Gondorians to take the time to learn our language." He paused and Lothíriel caught a smile playing on his lips. "In fact, I have to admit I was rather impressed." Despite her earlier declaration that him being impressed could be little more than expected she was surprised.

"You were?" Her voice came out a bit more shrill than she had meant for it to.

"Indeed. I know that for most people who did not grow up learning it, rohirric is a difficult language and for a foreigner to speak it with as much ease as you demonstrated, it shows both intelligence and dedication."

"I will admit," Lothíriel bit her lip, "that it did take an extraordinary amount of practice to get the accent right."

"For someone to be as smart as you are, I cannot help but wonder how you were convinced to drink that potion." Éomer's voice wasn't accusatory, merely curious. Lothíriel was glad for that. She doubted she had the wherewithal to stand up to Éomer in her current state.

"Perhaps even the most intelligent of people are at risk of being taken in." She hoped this answer would suit. She really didn't want to start arguing again.

"Hmm." Éomer's response hummed deep within him. It wasn't long before they reached the top of the hill and he gently set her down. "I have done my duty, princess," Éomer bowed, "I wish you a peaceful rest." He began to turn when Lothíriel moved without thinking.

"Sire," she stepped forward and lightly touched his arm. Just as quickly as she had done it, she removed her hand and stepped back. Éomer turned, looking at her, a mixture of anticipation and caution in his expression.

"Is there something else you require." He raised an eyebrow.

"I think perhaps we should bury the dwarven axe, as it were." She fidgeted with her hands for a moment.

"I'm not sure what you mean." Éomer's other eyebrow lifted.

"I know you decided that I'm not the right fit to be your wife and queen," Éomer stiffened slightly but Lothíriel continued, "and I have no intention of marrying someone I do not love; perhaps we could be friendly towards each other." The tension immediately left Éomer. "During my time as a horse, we did get along fairly well. That tells me that there must be room for a friendship." She smiled up at him for a moment. "It's something to think on, at least." She bowed slightly before turning to go inside the hall.

"If we're to be friends," she heard Éomer say clearly, "then you should address me by my name. None of that 'sire' business." She turned her head and her smile widened.

"My friends call me Lothíriel, rather than princess." She chuckled lightly, "Though some have called me Flower Dancer before." She reentered the hall, letting the chuckle evolve into a full laugh.

A/N: And the ice begins to thaw! Hope you enjoyed this little exchange. So I was wondering, how you guys would like it if I jumped into Éomer's POV. Or do you prefer that I remain as I have with only Lothíriel to understand what's going on?

I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Also, if you go to my profile, I've updated my social media stuff so if you want to follow me not only on here but among the other websites I'll be posting stuff, go ahead and take a look!