Chapter 17

It was about an hour later that Lothíriel and her father entered the chambers given to Éomer. They were accompanied by Father's steward, who was also one of his closest advisers, and a couple other trusted retainers of the Amrothian court. It didn't look like this was going to be the reunion she would have liked, but on the other hand, she was not terribly surprised. She knew enough of court politics to anticipate advisers and retainers meddling in what anyone else would see as a private matter. But she was the daughter of Prince Imrahil and she had not been raised to expect such privacy, and so she hid her feelings behind a calm countenance. Éomer, being the King of Rohan, would be in an even more restricted position than her. There would be time for tender words and hopefully some affections, but first there was business to deal with.

A life with the Lord of the Rohirrim would always be more or less a public affair, but she wouldn't have chosen him if she wanted to fade into obscurity.

However, if she expected Éomer to be restrained, she was quite wrong. The moment she and her father stepped inside, he got up on his feet and came straight to her, his face beaming. He took her hands in his own and kissed her on the cheek, much more chaste than probably either of them would have liked. But hopefully there would be a chance for a proper greeting later. She held on tightly to his warm, strong hands.

"Well met, my dear. You look well", he said as he studied her. She knew he was busy reassuring himself that she had indeed recovered fully, and no shadow of the injury lingered on her. But his eyes also seemed to be brimming with a hundred different things he wanted to tell her; he was no less eager for a chance to talk alone.

"It is good to see you, too, my lord", Lothíriel replied, curtsying. Éomer himself did not appear to expect such formality, but she remembered what her father had said about courtesy and respect. She was keenly aware of the many eyes fixed on her and her betrothed. But when she met his gaze and took him in, she all but forgot the company around them. She had almost forgotten how it felt like to be close to this man; what space his towering body did not take, was filled with his presence. His delight at seeing her set his very vicinity ablaze with an inviting warmth and she had to struggle to keep from simply wrapping her arms around him and enveloping him in a tight hug. She had to look away in order to keep these thoughts in check.

"Come meet my advisers", he said, pulling gently at her hand and turning so that they could face the Rohirric party.

He told her their names, and much the same information as what she had already heard from her father and brothers. But of the Princess Hild, Éomer said that she had recently joined the King's Council "after much persuasion". It sounded indeed like this was a reconciliation after some kind of discord inside the family. Each of Éomer's company greeted the Amrothians. Master Ceolmund remained as impassive as before, though he got up on his feet and bowed to her. Lord Dunstan was most forthcoming with his smiles, but Princess Hild was a little more reserved, though not quite to the same degree as Ceolmund.

After the introductions, Éomer glanced around his folk and then the Amrothian company.

"I'm sure you're wondering why I've asked you here. Ceolmund will explain everything shortly, but in the meanwhile, I was wondering if Lady Lothíriel would like to come and walk with me. Imrahil, is it fine with you if my aunt accompanies us?" he asked.

From his look, Lothíriel guessed that he would have preferred to be truly alone with her, but was making this concession for her father's sake. She fought off the urge to steal a glance of Princess Hild, wondering what kind of a chaperone such woman would make – if she would use her cane liberally in case her nephew was too familiar with his betrothed. But she realised another thing, too. The manner he had called up this meeting was because he had wanted to show his people something - or because they had demanded it. It had to do with her, but in what particular way, she wasn't sure.

Father's face did not betray any surprise at the request.

"Very well. I am sure both of you are eager to spend some time alone, anyway", he said, nodding his head.

"Thank you, Father", said Lothíriel with a smile. Well, this was nice. They would still be under Princess Hild's watching eye, but she would take what she could get.

So, a few minutes later, they were outside and walking in Queen Arwen's private garden. It was quiet there and it was away from the bustle of the court, where the Gondorian nobility and Rohirric guests were impossible to avoid. In just a short while, the Queen had been able to turn this place into a haven of calm. It was not the ordered, often clinical type of garden that so many of Gondorian nobles seemed to prefer. Rather, the flowerbeds, the small fountain, the bushes and the carven statues looked like all this had grown here in natural harmony, springing from the womb of the earth by no outside interference. There was, Lothíriel thought, something a little bit Elvish about the place, although she was not qualified to judge what that exactly meant. But there usually was something special about things and places Queen Arwen's hands had touched.

Next to her, Éomer was walking slowly. She moved as close to him as she dared while his aunt' watched them, her hand resting on his arm. He had been quiet on the way here, although she could feel his tension. Princess Hild had taken a seat on a bench in the garden to rest her bad leg, but her gaze was like a living thing fixed on the pair.

"It is wonderful to see you. You are really feeling better, aren't you?" he said at last and she could feel his eyes on herself.

"Darling man, I have recovered perfectly well. What could possibly trouble me here in Minas Tirith and under the eyes of King Elessar and Queen Arwen?" she asked him gently.

"I won't deny I've spent these past few weeks in constant fear that maybe you were not all right after all. So it may take a moment to convince me", he told her, the glint in his eyes revealing just how eager he was to be persuaded. The scoundrel!

"In that case, I'm surprised you didn't just pounce at me", said Lothíriel, shaking her head.

"The thought did cross my mind", he said with a bright smile, at which she elbowed him, although gently. After all, she shared the sentiment very deeply.

"I take it the journey went well and your council didn't make trouble for you?" she asked him. At once, his expression became grave.

"Of the journey I have not much to report, except my endless anxiety to see you again, but my council… I have some news to share, but before I say anything else, I must first tell you how sorry I am for everything. It seems I have put you in a horrible position and I hardly know how to begin to explain."

Lothíriel watched Éomer closely.

"Am I the only one in a horrible position, or did your council put you in one, too?"

He sighed.

"In a way, yes. It's horrible in a sense that I couldn't talk to you and be as open as I would have liked. But it's nothing compared to what they want to ask of you, Lothíriel", he said, frowning and still looking for the right words.

She stared at him for a moment and then the realisation hit her.

"They want me to marry you before you go to war."

"Aye. That's their condition for letting me go."

There was a brief silence before he continued, sounding wary.

"How does it make you feel?"

"I... I am surprised at how unsurprised I am. I feel like deep down, I was expecting something like this. But if you don't mind my saying so, that is very sly of your council", Lothíriel said eventually. No rush of feeling had yet come; she felt like she was in some kind of a dream. Later on she would think much about this moment and why it had failed to overwhelm her, but the only answer she could come up with was that her commitment to this man was already made, and because she trusted him more than anyone, she could not feel scared. But this was, she guessed, the reason the meeting had been called in such a way: they had wanted to see her and most likely she owed it only to Éomer that she and him had this much privacy to discuss the news.

He snorted.

"Just a little bit? I almost punched Ceolmund in the face when he first made the suggestion. Not because I don't want to marry you, but because it's not the way I wished to do this. You deserve more than some shoddy wedding and then being abandoned for Béma knows for how long. Even so, I would be lying if I said that the idea of marrying you as soon as possible doesn't excite me; I want to be with you so badly. But there is also a part in me that hopes you will say no, so that we can do this properly. So that you can get all the time you need for preparing", Éomer said, soft and slow.

She felt immense tenderness for him. Perhaps this was why she wasn't shocked. Éomer appreciated her and cared about her too much to bend to anyone's demands but his and her own.

But then she spied the look on his face and it sobered her mind too.

"There's something else, too", he said quietly.

"Is it about your row with Erchirion back in Emyn Arnen?" she asked.

He grimaced.

"You remain as discerning as ever, love. It does have to do with that, unfortunately. You know I don't mind – I had forgotten about it by the time I got home – but not all agree with me. I was not able to contain the story, not after it had spread among my Riders, and I would not ask them to lie even for my sake. So my council found out and they were not pleased. I knew then they would demand some reparation, some show from your family that no injury was intended, and I was not surprised when they brought the matter up. Why should you be the one to pay? But of course, it's ingeniously convenient for them, as it takes care of two of their problems: getting me married and making sure the integrity of the throne of Rohan is intact", he explained, his expression foul.

Lothíriel had to marvel at it as well. She was not above admitting it was a cunning bit of manoeuvring and Erchirion's actions would make it very difficult for her to say no. For if she did refuse, then she might well be offering Éomer's enemies, or even such allies with different agendas than himself, the very tool of unravelling her betrothal to him.

All the same, there was irony to it: with his outburst, Erchirion may well have sealed her fate, although his intention had been some misguided notion of protecting her.

"And then what, if I said no? Would your council call off the betrothal?" Lothíriel asked.

"To be honest, I'm not sure. Ceolmund might consider it. But they still know they're now closer to getting what they want – me, finally settling down – than they've ever been. They know they must tread carefully and antagonising us both is not a smart course of action. However, even if they don't try to break the betrothal, they could still make trouble. It might affect your future position, or make you enemies even before you set foot in Rohan. I won't deny it would be difficult for me as well and it could cost me allies that I can't afford to lose. But you must know that I will always do whatever I can to protect you. Don't make your choice for me, Lothíriel. Make it for yourself. That's all I ask, whatever devices or persuasions my council may try to employ."

She thought about this for a while. Perhaps there was so little shock because she felt so safe with him. He would never force her into anything if she felt uncomfortable and uneasy.

"How long do I have before they want my answer?" she asked him at length.

He made a low, growling sound in his throat.

"They probably want it as soon as possible. But I won't begrudge you for any amount of time you need to consider this. Talk to your father. He is a smart man, and not intimidated by such requests."

"I will speak with him, indeed. But there is only so much help he can offer. In the end, I'm the one who must make this choice, and bear the consequences", she said, staring ahead without really taking note of anything before her eyes. There was a strange calmness on her. It was like she had just said: as if she had somehow known this was coming.

He let out a low sigh.

"So you are. It's much to ask, I know, and I don't expect you to answer today, or even tomorrow. For my part, I am ready and willing to do this. I can hardly wait for you to be my wife, Lothíriel, and going to war would be easier when I know that you are waiting for me. Truly waiting, and not just with a promise of our wedding somewhere in the future. That is why I could agree to the council's suggestion. But I know it's not the same for you. I've had my youth and wild days, and now I want to move forward. You haven't had a chance to explore what life can offer and I'd hate to think I was the reason you had to give it up. You are still so young, and yet I keep forgetting it, because your grace and poise often blind me", he said gravely, touching her hand. Now Lothíriel looked up at his face and felt her heart melting at the sight of his open and earnest expression.

"I don't feel like marrying you means giving up anything. Or, I still think what I'm getting in return far outweighs the cost. And what's better than exploring life with the person I care about most? If I've learned anything, it's that life is fleeting. It's dangerous to wait for a better time, because it may never come", she told him quietly.

There was a grave look between them. He understood well the fragility of life, being a warrior. And she, after her accident, did comprehend something of it too. Even such a sheltered life as hers might end in a heartbeat. They were not promised tomorrow. Perhaps her brush with death made all this so much easier to swallow than it might have been in some other situation.

"Even so", he said, sobering again, "I have told my council that I would go through with it, if you are agreeable. That was my promise to them, but to you I will make another pledge. If you decide you want to do this thing, then you shall be the one to set the pace. We'll go forward on your terms. Ceolmund's next request was sending you back to Rohan to rule in my stead, but that is where I drew the line. I told him you would decide where you wish to reside while I'm away – and when you are ready to travel to Rohan. But as far as I'm concerned, things may remain as they are now, and I would be your husband only in name. The only change would be that we may be alone without supervision."

Now she felt very real surprise. That a man so proud would lay down his rights, to let her take the lead, was a generous thing to do. And he would do it so readily, even though he was going to war and endangering his own life! She didn't know how it was in Rohan, but at least in Gondor he could easily demand his rights to her and the society would back him. But she understood it was his way of ensuring her agency. He would allow her this power over himself, and did so because he trusted her.

Lothíriel stopped walking and pressed his arm. He halted as well and watched her face very closely.

"I hardly know what to say, my dear, except thank you. It is such an unusual situation for us both, and I know it must be difficult for you as well, but you still make this effort to take care of me. I appreciate it more than you know", she told him, her voice wavering just a little bit.

He gazed at her with such warmth and adoration that momentarily she thought it might not be so bad if they were married this very night.

"It's the least I can do. I don't want to lose you, not because of this", he said simply and raised her hand to kiss it. She almost leaned closer to him so that it would rather be her lips that he'd kiss, but there was still more to be discussed, and she didn't know how soon his advisers and her father would expect them back. She also glanced at the bench where Princess Hild was seated and the woman's eyes were still following them.

"I will not have long to consider it, though. You mean to head for Ithilien soon", she said, looking away once more. It was easier to keep her head clear that way.

"I'm afraid so. But I expect I can bargain at least for a few days, maybe a week."

"We would only have a few days together, then."

"Probably, and I don't like it either. Like I said, I would like to do this properly. In spring, close to summer, so that we could spend days and days just dancing under the stars. And I could show you Edoras and all my lands. I would make you such a feast in Meduseld, Lothíriel, that generations to come would still speak of it. That is what I wish for you – for us. And if that is your desire, I will tell my people that we will wait until after the war is done", he said gravely. She believed it, every word. He would do this thing for her, perhaps break the trust of his own council. He was determined, but could she ask it of him?

"And your council? What should I expect from them?"

"You need not expect trouble from Lord Dunstan. He believes that an alliance with Dol Amroth can only be a good thing for Rohan, no matter when it happens. He is perhaps the most neutral among my advisers. My aunt", he said, glancing at the woman and lowering his voice, "is a tougher nut to crack. We've never spoken about it, but she and her mother did not get along very well. I suspect it is because they were too much alike, and yet too different; Hild believes Morwen resented her because she was not the daughter my grandmother wanted her to be. But either way, that relationship left her with doubts whether a union like ours can truly work. She was among the last to give her blessing and I think she gave it more for my sake than because she truly approves", said Éomer and frowned. She had a feeling this caused him more regret than he cared to admit.

"Ceolmund is the one who has not yet wholly made up his mind whether our union is a good idea. You may wonder why he would then propose a quick marriage if he's not wholly agreeable; he probably wants to test your resolve. He will want to talk to you privately, because he is very keen to 'gauge your character' for himself. He thinks I'm so infatuated with you that I have lost my good judgement. He actually wanted to have the news declared to you in the front of my advisers and your father's", said Éomer, shaking his head.

"Why did he suggest such a thing?"

"To see how you would react. Are you as taken with me as I'm with you, or are you a pawn Gondor is trying to plant in Meduseld? Ceolmund can be a bit zealous. He disliked and mistrusted Denethor, though he would not say anything against Éowyn and her choice of bridegroom. For your father's sake, he's not putting up a fight, but for your uncle's sake, he is suspicious. Not that he would ever say so, but the old man was always more fond of my sister than he was of me", he explained and again the shadow of old scars seemed to be upon his brow. Lothíriel could only guess at the history between these two men, but perhaps in time, she would find out more.

"I see. I got a strange feeling about him when you first arrived and I saw him among your people. He kept staring at me like I was something for him to chew on", said Lothíriel, However Ceolmund had presented himself, she could understand his point of view somewhat. Lord Denethor, especially in his last days, had done some controversial things. It was also easy to see how two such strong, proud characters might clash and resent one another. Rohirrim had come and gone occasionally in the years before the war, aiding her uncle in the campaigns waged against the Shadow; perhaps Master Ceolmund had met the Steward in those times. Lothíriel guessed he could abide with Éowyn's choice,, even if he didn't fully approve of it, because she had clearly cast her lot with Gondor and Ithilien, but the consort of the King of Rohan was a different matter.

"I shall tell him to be nice to you. Not that you can't handle the old grouch, but after the way we have tried your good will and patience today, we should all put our best foot forward."

"There is one way you can make it up to me, though", Lothíriel said, smiling slightly.

He raised a curious brow.

"And what is that, fair lady?"

"You could kiss me."

She had been very patient, after all. And it was an entire month since they had last seen each other.

He grinned, eyes glittering with delight, and obliged her. His hand swiftly snaked its way to the back of her head, idly caressing her neck with unexpected intimacy. She could still smell the wind and the road on him, the great expanses that he had travelled. Then there was the familiar warmth, the gentle rub of his beard against her chin, and the slow gentleness of his mouth. She melted into his arms, wrapping her own tightly around him. It felt a bit like coming home.

It was just starting to get interesting when a throat was cleared close by.

"Nephew mine, what do you think you're doing?"

Éomer groaned and pulled back. Lothíriel, her cheeks warming, turned to face the woman. She had risen on her feet, clasping the cane between her hands, as if to judge which one of them she should beat with it. Only now Lothíriel realised how much Hild resembled her niece, although her features were more stern and proud and sharp. There was a lightness and joy about Éowyn that this woman, more grave and reserved, did not show.

"I am just saying hello", he said, still resting his hand on his bride's shoulder.

Hild lifted her brow in an expression identical to her sister's son.

"Is that how they do it here in Gondor?"

"Not at all, my lady. But don't blame your lord nephew, for I asked him to greet me so", Lothíriel said, nodding her head in respect.

Now something flickered in the Princess' eyes – dare she call it amusement? Even a faint smile touched her weathered face.

"Birds of a feather flock together, indeed. I had doubts whether my nephew's intended could possibly share his boundless enthusiasm, but it seems I was mistaken. Many things are clearer to me now. I am glad to meet you, Lady Lothíriel", she said. She had a stronger accent than any Rohirrim Lothíriel had spoken to until now, but her voice rang like water on stones, clear and melodious.

"Likewise, Princess Hild. I much look forward to getting to know you better", said the younger woman, feeling easier now that at least one member of Éomer's party received her so cordially. Hild would be a valuable ally in times to come.

The old shieldmaiden's smile turned wry.

"All in good time. Let's first find out if we can manage this mess my nephew and his advisers have created for us", she said, casting a meaningful look at her kinsman.

"I suppose I should claim at least partial responsibility. I'm the reason there's a mess to begin with", Lothíriel said, at which Hild laughed.

"Maybe, but if my nephew was a more patient man, he might have handled it more gracefully", the Princess commented, again admonishing him with her eyes. He glared straight back.

"That too, I'm afraid, is not entirely his fault", Lothíriel said softly, taking his hand in her own.

The formidable aunt considered them for a moment, serious and thoughtful.

"I see. What a pair you are. I haven't seen such a thing since..." she said, trailing off and shaking her head. "Enough of that, now. I think Master Ceolmund will have made his case to your father. We should get back and join them. Time is flying and my nephew will have many more meetings before the day is done."

Getting back inside, Éomer felt immensely relieved. The conversation with Lothíriel had gone much better than he had dared to hope: she was not angry or disappointed with him, nor did she seem to think he had betrayed her. Deep down, he had known he could trust her level head and her understanding, but even so, he had still feared that this might ruin what had been such a natural, effortless relationship.

She didn't even seem particularly shocked, but now after their talk, he had some insight why this was. After the accident that had so nearly claimed her life, she was eager to live, and more open to taking such a risk than she might have been otherwise.

But Lothíriel was smiling and holding on tight to his arm when they joined the rest of the company. There the atmosphere was not quite the sweet ease of being alone with her – well, relatively alone, but his aunt had not interfered much beyond what propriety demanded. She followed them, her cane clanging rhythmically against the marble floors. Éomer wondered what Hild's thoughts were now that she had seen his betrothed, and that he had not exaggerated Lothíriel's part and enthusiasm. At least, it seemed like she was less doubtful than before.

Glancing around in the chamber, he saw some tense faces. He hoped it had been the right call to let Dunstan and Ceolmund do the talking. Both could be persuasive men when they wanted to, but the former was subtler and more charming than the latter. It had been Éomer's hope that he would check and soften the older man's occasional brashness. Éowyn was the only one who seemed relaxed; she seemed to be enjoying all this a little bit too much to his liking.

"I hope we have not kept you waiting. Lady Lothíriel and I had much to talk about. I trust you have had, too", he said, stopping next to an empty chair and pulling it back for his betrothed. Her soft smile attracted not just his notice and he knew she was already working the room. There's my girl.

"Yes, your men here have explained the council's request. I was hoping to hear my daughter's thoughts on this issue", Imrahil said. His features retained their usual calm, but his eyes were keen and sharp as they fixed on her.

"My lord of Rohan has shared the news with me as well. I know all present in this room would like expediency, but this is a grave matter and I must consider it carefully. I am aware there is not much time before the King is riding to war, though", she said evenly, meeting the eyes of each participant. "Whatever my answer shall be, I would like to reassure you that I am committed either way. King Éomer has my affection and loyalty, whether we marry now or a year from this day."

The Prince gave a tiny nod, but there was the faintest flutter of impatience on Ceolmund's face. He was quick to hide it. Lord Dunstan merely smiled. It was as Éomer had guessed: they would not dare to try and use the timing to bargain. Threatening to take back their support was the most severe leverage his council had to force Lothíriel, at least while he was on her side, but they seemed to realise using it would unleash something they would not be able to undo or control – at least while there was still a chance that she would agree. There were other reasons of course, but he also wondered how much it had to do with her own disarming attitude.

"I think we can trust these young people to know what to do. If I ever had any questions about this union, they were sufficiently answered by what I witnessed today", Hild said concisely as she gestured at Éomer's esquire and received a glass of wine from the young man.

Imrahil cast a curious look at Hild, and so did Ceolmund. Éomer knew at least the latter would be interrogating her the first chance he got.

"I told you so. They're quite hopeless, I can assure you", Éowyn commented from her seat by the window. He had been able to inform her of the development by sending one of his fast riders to bring the word; Éowyn's counsel, but also her presence might serve as a moderating force in a tight spot. But at least so far, it didn't seem like her intervention would be needed.

"There is still the matter of Lord Erchirion and his conduct towards the King of Rohan. There is a feeling among the royal council, shared by us and also those who stayed behind in our land, that it can't go unmentioned."

Lord Dunstan spoke these words, but Éomer knew instantly it was on Ceolmund's behalf. Doubtless they had thought this particular issue would be more easily received when it came from the mouth of a more neutral character.

Imrahil looked uncomfortable and so did his advisers, knowing they were severely at disadvantage, but Lothíriel's expression didn't change.

"For the record, I think it's not necessary. The lady should not be held responsible for others' blunders. I've made my own peace with Erchirion, but unfortunately, my council doesn't agree it's enough", Éomer put in and refrained from glaring at Ceolmund and Dunstan.

"No, I understand the sentiment. My son acted in a truly mortifying way and there is little I can say in our defence, except how sorry we are. If a public apology is needed, then we shall deliver it", Imrahil said, retaining his grace in the face of what must be quite embarrassing for him.

"We discussed that, but the general feeling was that words can do only so much. Rohirrim wish to see once and for all that Gondor truly does appreciate the efforts we have made and the blood we have shed on your behalf. I know it's inconvenient for the parties involved, but hearts and souls are still raw from the Ring War, and I'm afraid this time a stronger gesture is wanted", Dunstan said smoothly.

Imrahil looked like he was about to speak again, but Lothíriel was faster.

"I will take this to consideration, my lord. I feel that I bear at least partial responsibility in the matter, as I was not as open as I should have been with my family. Had they understood how I feel about King Éomer, it might have prevented my brother from committing such offences", she said evenly, and from the faces of his own people, Éomer could tell that her answer pleased them. He also felt that her words, and her claim to partial responsibility, disarmed both parties.

"In that case, we shall wait for the lady's decree. But in the meanwhile, I expect we can all agree that we should take this chance and give thought to the marriage contract. Whether it's signed now or later, it is easier to negotiate in person, after all", said one of Imrahil's men – his Steward, if Éomer recalled correctly. It seemed like such a banal topic, but he knew it couldn't be helped. No matter how much he adored his Amrothian bride, for their people this was still akin to a business transaction. Sometimes he thought how much easier it would be if he were not a king and they could do this in the old-fashioned way: him lifting her on the back of his horse and then riding together to some place alone and quiet.

"We shall make time for it, naturally", Dunstain conceded. His expression didn't change, but Éomer knew he was pleased the Amrothians were the ones to bring this up.

Then Ceolmund got up on his feet again.

"My lady Lothíriel, with the permission of your lord father, I wonder if I might speak alone with you some time soon?" he inquired. The old man could be polite when he wanted to. Even so, Éomer threw him a warning look. If he did something to upset her...

But she was all grace and congeniality.

"I would be delighted, Master Ceolmund", she said, and the young king had to wonder to himself how could anyone withstand that smile of hers. Béma, she was too lovely for her own good! Half-seriously, he began to think again of ways to persuade her to a quick wedding.

"I have nothing against it. I understand well the need to get to know my daughter", Imrahil said for his part. Was that relief Éomer spied on his features? He must have worried how she would take this, and how well she could handle the expectation placed on her. But it was clear she was handling the situation with discretion even Imrahil did not quite reach.

A few more practical issues were discussed, plans were made for another meeting to begin drafting the marriage contract, and then Amrothians took their leave. Éomer too would soon have to hurry off to his next appointment, but before it he dismissed his people except for Ceolmund. He wanted to share a few words with the old man. Lord Dunstan swept out with his usual energy, but Hild limped more slowly with Éowyn by her side, muttering something about not having a chance to finish off her wine. Not that his aunt would ever admit it, but Éomer had a feeling she thought of this as much as a holiday as a formal gathering. Funny old bird, Hild was.

"How can I be of help, lord?" Ceolmund asked once they were alone again.

"Tell me, how did Imrahil take the news?"

"With all due grace, though I expected nothing less of him. He hid his surprise well, but I believe we may take it as a promising sign that he is willing to entertain the suggestion. His son's part in these events also make it difficult for him to oppose. Even so, I wondered at how much weight he puts on his daughter's opinion in the matter. He said he would have to speak to her before he declares his position. That is not what the heads of noble houses usually do in Gondor, is it?" Ceolmund inquired.

"Perhaps not. But Imrahil may not be like the rest of them, and recent events probably have persuaded him to be even more mindful of his daughter's sentiment", Éomer replied. He had a feeling Imrahil still felt guilt over the affair with Aegdir, and was trying to make amends by allowing her so much freedom in her choice.

"His retainers seemed more shocked. There may be some controversy once the news spread in the city, but we all know what you make of gossip, lord", said the old man.

"Indeed. I doubt I will have time to listen to it for in the coming days", Éomer snorted.

"If I may ask, what was the lady's reaction to our request?" Ceolmund asked.

"I feared much worse. But all is well between us, and whatever she decides, I will support her", Éomer said curtly. Ceolmund needed not know any more than that, least of all his promise to let her set the pace. He knew what the old man hoped – a marriage consummated and heir on the way as soon as possible – but in this matter, he would not listen to anyone except for Lothíriel herself.

"Lord, with all due respect, I was disappointed you chose to deliver the news to the lady by yourself, and alone."

"And why do you think you should have been privy to that conversation?"

"I wanted to see her face, lord. Make sure she's the woman you've made her out to be. There is much you can read on a face, if you know how – even such a face as these placid Gondorians have."

"Is my word not enough for you, Ceolmund?"

"Usually, it is quite enough. But in this matter, I wonder if your mind is as clear as it should be. The lady is lovely, and she seems well-spoken, but I am not yet wholly convinced that you have chosen her for the right reasons."

This was too much. In a swift motion, Éomer got up on his feet and stepped forward, glaring at the old man before him. Inside, fierce and swift anger coursed, as if Ceolmund had somehow threatened her.

"Have care, Ceolmund. You have your uses, but there is a line and if you cross it, you will regret it. And you will treat her with all the courtesy you would show to Queen Undómiel herself."

If Ceolmund was taken aback or disconcerted by his sudden flare of temper, he did not show it. He bowed and stepped back.

"Aye, lord. Forgive me. I did not mean to offend or overstep. You know that I only care for the interests of your throne."

Éomer swallowed hard against the anger that still bubbled hotly in his throat. However the old man vexed him, he should not let himself be provoked by it. But Lothíriel was so important to him, and he was so worried still that something here would go awry. He needed to know she felt safe, that he still had her love and trust, and make sure that Ceolmund knew not to upset her.

"I know, Ceolmund. But especially now, you may want to be careful, if you hope this to go as smoothly as possible – and if you hope to win her on your side", he said to his adviser.

"I shall bear that in mind, lord."

To be continued.

A/N: Here is a new chapter for the start of the new year! I had some time around this holiday season and so you get a faster update than what I've been recently able to provide. Also, this chapter practically wrote itself and I completed it with little effort. I hope you enjoyed it.

I did mean to cover more in this chapter, but after I passed the 10 000 word mark, I decided to split it in two. So I should be able to update fairly soon!

It was fun to show a little more of the new Rohirric characters, and Aunt Hild in particular. She had bit of a wine aunt moment there, which I have to say was personally amusing for me. Hopefully, I can bring her around soon! Ceolmund is fascinating old grouch, too, although he can be a real annoyance.

In this new thread, I was interested in exploring our lovers' relationship and how the demands of their duties and positions in their societies can make things complicated - even when they are committed to one another. Like Lothíriel thinks at the start of the chapter, it's going to be a public affair either way. I think Rohirrim would be pragmatic and bold enough to suggest this solution to the very real danger of Éomer dying in the battles to come. It may be sly, like Lothíriel points out, but it is also a simple and effective answer. I think that the deaths of Théoden and Théodred may have left the Rohirric society with some degree of trauma and fear of it happening again, and so the royal council of Rohan would be very anxious to ensure the succession. And, in his praises of Lothíriel, Éomer may have inadvertently fuelled their readiness to propose this plan. But the fight between Éomer and Erchirion is also a part of the issue, which indeed makes it hard for Imrahil to oppose, and Lothíriel too is well aware she will have to consider her next steps very carefully. From our point of view, it certainly is not fair to expect her to make reparations for others' blunders, but I think these political entangelements would be realistic in the situation.

I wish you all a great new year! Thank you for reading and reviewing.

Tibblets - Thank you!

Boramir - You were on the right track! And the council definitely had something like that in mind, that she would go and rule in his stead.

Even if some in Éomer's inner circle would rather push for a match with another woman, they also regocnise there may not be time for that and Éomer will not be persuaded to choose differently. So they're working with what they have, and trying to make the best of it.

Cathael - You suspected right! I hope you liked this chapter. :)

Also glad to hear the time jump worked well! I was a little bit worried about it, I have to admit.

Wondereye - This chapter should answer the question!

xXMizz Alec VolturiXx - Thank you! I hope to be writing more about her soon. :)