The hour was early and Lothiriel had scarcely fallen asleep. She had not felt well in the past few days and she found sleep did not come so easily. Her mind was full of worry and despite how hard she tried, all she could do was toss and turn in her bed. Light was just beginning to climb over the horizon and the sun was hanging low. The sharp light crept into Lothiriel's room and roused her. The lady squinted and tried to turn away, but resigned to get up. She found her clothes at the foot of the bed and decided to head for the main hall. There was always food in that room, so even if the servers were still in bed, she would be able to fend for herself.

Lothiriel walked gingerly down the uneven stairs. She spied a large bowl of fruit, some bread and cheese left on the table. Nothing seemed to appetise her at the moment, perhaps it was too early she thought? She was about to pour herself a cup of water when the door of the house flew open and Beorthred rushed inside. A Rider was swiftly behind him, dressed in full armour and helm. Beorthred in contrast was in naught but his tunic and hose, he had clearly been woken by the Rider. He bowed deeply and offered Lothiriel a scroll he was holding. The lady thanked him but looked quizzical as she peeled back the wax seal.

The message was short but direct, Theoden King had ordered the cities of Rohan to empty and every man, woman and child was the make their way to Helm's Deep. Lothiriel spoke directly to the Rider who delivered the message, he was standing sentry just by the house doors

"You have come from Edoras?" She asked cautiously.

The silent rider nodded his answer.

Lothiriel bit her lip in worry. Her existence at Aldburg had been kept so tightly secret that she hadn't heard any news from the Theodred, Lady Eowyn or Eomer. She was unsure whether the missive was true, or if this was just another plot by Grima to lure her out of hiding.

"This message you have read it? Whom gave it to you?" Lothiriel pressed.

"Yes my lady. Marshall Eomer."

Lothiriel felt her heart leap a little when she heard his name. If Eomer had truly send the message then it must have been genuine. He would not risk exposing her presence to their enemies. However, a small feeling was tugging at her mind, stopping her from truly believing it. She looked towards Beorthred and showed him the scroll. The princess had come to trust the soldier during her stay at Aldburg. He was much older and wiser than she and fiercely loyal to Eomer.

"This is the Marshall's hand my lady." Beorthred offered soothingly.

"How far is Helm's Deep?"

"A day's ride at least my lady...longer with women and children." The soldier sounded concerned.

"Then we must waste no time...and leave immediately."

Beorthred bowed towards the princess and left the house taking the Rider with him. The Rider went straight for the dinner triangle at the centre of the city. He grabbed the iron hammer and began to beat out a rhythmic and constant pattern on it. Beorthred went from door to door gathering what few men were left at Aldburg and roused the villagers. Orders were being shouted from left to right but the message was clear, pack your things and move out.

Lothiriel emerged from the main house in a thick warm cloak. She had not changed her attire but had found a pair of gloves to keep her hands warm. She looked around as the villagers gathered in the centre of the small town, shivering and nervous. There were no more than forty of them and a handful of Riders. By the time everyone was ready the sun had fully risen but the day was still cold and icy.

"Beorthred you expect the children to make the journey on foot? What about those carts over there?" The princess could not understand why the men were leaving a valuable resource like that behind.

"Forgive me my lady...but they will slow us down even more. It's rough terrain ahead and I can't risk losing time to a broken wheel."

Lothiriel understood. She knew it was going to be difficult and didn't want anything to delay them further.

A young Rider came forward bearing a horse for Lothiriel. She thanked him but shook her head.

"I am much better on foot. Pack the horse with provisions...we may need them."

With that final word Beorthred gave the order to leave.

o0o

Helm's Deep was a great fortress built into the rock of the Thrihyrne mountains. It was an impressive castle that had grown into legend amongst the people of Rohan. Famous as a refuge for a good King of old, whom had led his people there during a harsh winter. It had proven impenetrable in the past, as the cliffs it was built in rose like mighty towers on either side, shutting out the light. It had stood unmanned for many years, as it was so substantial that no army for many miles had the strength or discipline to take it.

Now it was the site of much noise, movement and commotion. Theoden King had arrived with his people from Edoras and they were spilling inside the ramparts as quickly as they could. Provisions, women and children were being sent below to the glittering caves as a matter of priority. The caves themselves were legendary. Outsiders believed them to be no more than holes to flee in, at times of war. However once inside they would stare in awe at the crystals and veins of precious stones that twinkled like stars in the polished walls.

Men, boys and anyone strong enough to hold a sword were being sent down to the armoury to arm themselves for the ensuing battle. Eomer was down there too, helping to dispense weapons, shields and armour. He did as his King bade him, but was struggling to find the courage and hope that they would prevail. He had learnt- as had his uncle- from the wizard Gandalf that the false friend, Saruman had finally declared open war on Rohan. The soldier wasn't surprised as he had long suspected the evil conjurer to be behind all that went ill in Rohan. However, he was also wise enough to understand that whatever dark magic and spells the wizard had revealed before, come could not compare to what would be unleashed on them.

Eomer kept his thoughts to himself, it did not bode well for a soldier of his standing to confess his worries on the eve of battle. Despite his best efforts he wasn't able to keep his concern from his new friend. Aragorn, son of Arathorn and the heir to the throne of Gondor was as perceptive as any other man from his race. More so, if it was to be believed that he had spent many years in the company of elves. Their magic and wisdom was revered amongst most in Middle-Earth but kept at a wary arms length by the people of Rohan. The experienced ranger had accompanied the host to Helm's Deep. He had travelled to Edoras with Gandalf, the elf and dwarf and had kept close counsel with the King.

He approached the Marshall as he stood tightening his armour straps.

"Are you ready… Lord Eomer?" Aragorn spoke in a fatherly way. Despite appearances he was some sixty years older than his companion.

"As ready as we'll ever be."

Eomer sounded grave as he looked around at the men that were charged with defending his country. They were not soldiers but they would have to do.

The men did not finish their conversation as they were promptly interrupted by Eowyn.

"Brother...is it true? You have ordered me into the caves!" The white lady was furious.

"It is for your own safety Eowyn." Eomer began handing out more tack as a way to deflect her tirade.

"What use am I down there? Give me a weapon and I will gladly stand beside you and fight."

Though it had only been a short time, Eowyn had found here spirits lifted since Grima had been expelled from the capital. Her uncle's strength had returned and at last there was hope. More so, if she was allowed to assist.

"Out of the question!" Eomer snapped.

"Forgive me...my lady." Aragorn stepped in.

"You may be of great help still. The women will look to you as their leader. You are fierce and bold. Your mere presence will bolster their resolve."

Eowyn seemed to soften somewhat. Her breathing had slowed and she had stopped ranting. Eomer looked at the pair bewildered. He knew his sister better than any other man and had never known anyone to calm her down as Aragorn had just done. Particularly if she was worked up. Eowyn was about to reply when a loud horn blast was heard.

The three companions ran out to the highest level in the fortress. Theoden King, Gimli the dwarf, Gandalf and Legolas the elf were already waiting there, looking out to the open fields. From their vantage point they could see across the plains a small party travelling slowly towards Helm's Deep. There were a few men on horseback, but the main bulk of the party were walking.

With his keen elvish eyes, Legolas was able to read their raiment and standards,

"Riders of Rohan." He stated serenely.

The group looked at their friend with bated breath and waited for further description.

"This is not to be expected?" Legolas continued amusingly.

"What is it?" Gandalf asked.

"There is a sable haired women amongst the golden. I do not know her...but the look of Numenor is proud on her face."

"Lothiriel?!" Eowyn gasped. She looked towards her brother whom only stared forward.

When she had seen the princess last, the knowing woman had deduced Eomer's feelings for her. She hadn't spoken to him about it since he returned. Much had passed and the thought had completely slipped from her mind. However, when Eomer had sent their fastest Rider to Aldburg with all due haste, she did not need to ask him if his feelings remained unaltered.

Eventually the small host arrived at the gates of the Hornburg and were permitted entrance. They were tired, cold and scared. Lothiriel was glad when the great heavy gates swung loudly and were locked behind them. She looked around her trying to find a friendly face and spotted no one she knew. The woman removed her gloves finger by finger and swept the sweaty hair away from her brow. She sighed heavily from relief rather than fatigue. The princess didn't know where to turn or whom to speak to, but didn't have to wait long. The King's party had arrived at the bottom of the steps to meet her.

"Welcome my lady." Theoden spoke calmly.

Lothiriel turned to speak but could simply stare at the man before her. There were no words. She remembered who it was that addressed her and dipped into a shallow curtsy. The best she could after a long and arduous walk.

"My Lord...I am,"

"I know whom you are child. Do not fear...you are safe now."

"Thank you my Lord."

"Forgive my manners...but you must go now to shelter. My sister-daughter will go with you."

Lothiriel spied Eowyn at the rear of the party and felt her heart lift slightly. She did not seemed pleased by what Theoden had just ordered, yet she stepped forward none the less and did as she was bid. Beside her she saw Eomer, battle ready and fearless. Lothiriel wanted nothing more than to speak with him, but knew better that this was not the time. Eowyn began to take Lothiriel by the arm and lead her away when the princess noticed something amiss. She scanned the faces of the men before her and noted one was missing.

"Wait!" She stopped in her tracks.

"Where is Theodred?" Lothiriel looked at Eowyn first, but the woman simply inhaled and looked at her feet uncomfortably.

The princess walked back to the King and pressed more urgently, "Where is the prince?"

Theoden sighed slowly and painfully. He had not spoken of it to anyone yet, but the sickness he bore in his heart was overwhelming. He feared if he uttered any of it he would succumb to a grief more powerful than any spell that had been placed upon him. However, he could not withhold the information from the young woman in front of him now.

"He's dead my lady."

Lothiriel stood there mouth agape. She didn't understand. Nor did she have time to ask the immense amount of questions that were on her lips. The stunned woman merely felt her arm being pulled by Eowyn, her friend leading her away to the glittering caves.

A/N - Okay, I know Eowyn stayed behind in Edoras in the books, but this was one change in PJ's Trilogy that I liked and really works for my AU. Sorry. I know this chapter is really long, but it just seemed to work well as one part of the story. Please keep reading and reviewing, Thanks Mrs-E x