Story Downloaded from Open Scrolls Archive (https://www.openscrolls.net)

Title: One Thing after Another (#2955)
Author: krazykataave
Chapters: 7

Archive: Tolkien
Category: Alternate Universe (AU)
Description: How is a prince to advise his king when he's dealing with four unwed children, a toddler in his terrible twos, a nephew who needs fatherly advice, and a misunderstanding with a horselord who just happens to be king? If Imrahil wants to retire and tend to his gardens he's going to have to think fast.
Published: 19 Sep 2006
Updated: 03 Oct 2006
Warnings: Family disfunction, sister beating her brother up
Type: Humour
Characters: Imrahil; his family; Eomer; half of unwed Gondor


Chapter 1 - To Smell the Roses

Sweet Viresse was almost here and the gardens of Minas Tirith were beginning to bloom. The healer’s medicinal garden smelled nice with lavender scents drifting in the air; but the prettiest was the ancient rose gardens. Gardens that had bloomed in dozens of varieties of roses every year ever since Imrahil could remember. Their fragrance was the sweetest smell in the world and the various colors were amazing to behold! With the war over and peace on the horizon he was excited about getting some quiet time to walk among them and gently tend to them. Imrahil was older now and he looked forward to calmer times in Gondor, and a chance to do his passion of gardening. But today Imrahil’s walk was quicker and he did not dare to walk in the gardens or his regular route in the city. He was caught in a hideous cat and mouse game. He cautiously looked to see if the pathway was clear and judging that it was safe he sprinted across it toward Faramir's rooms. He thought he was going to avoid another father seeking one of his son's for his daughter, and he was right. This time it was Lord Holmgreen seeking an appointment with Lothiriel once she had settled into the family's tents at Cormallen.

This was the way it had been for weeks. As soon as some lord saw him walking he was beset with requests for one of his four children's hand in marriage, or for the privilege of having one of the princes escort such and such’s daughter to a celebration. Enough was enough already! He had not survived countless wars only hide in his free years. Aragorn needed him, Faramir was seeking his advice, and his children still needed him. Any time now Lothiriel and Alphros were going to join the family in Minas Tirith as the celebrations began at Cormallen and he was damn well certain that he would have at least a quiet day or two before his life got more hectic! Three sons were enough to keep him busy but an unspoken for daughter in the mix along with an almost two year old grandson made it hell. But his focus went now to the man violently waving at him to stop.

“My most excellent lord, the ruler of the jewel of Gondor, his grace whose prowess upon the fields of battle turned the tides and brought about the freedom of our peoples, the father of the most esteemed and beautiful princess of the fair land of Dol Amroth, and my most worthy, Prince Imrahil.” Holmgreen was breathless from running to match the prince’s steps but managed to get out his endearments.

Well this was going to be interesting Imrahil thought. How many adjectives, nouns, and references were before his name? Holmgreen’s father had always been a wind bag and it looked like the son had inherited that annoying trait. Imrahil wished at least once someone would be a plain talker! The prince also found himself repulsed at the poor shape the lord had allowed himself to fall into. He had gained weight, at least in his face, and belly since Imrahil had seen him last. But he guessed that when you sat on your ass while your father was fighting for his life in the epic battle of good versus evil you were bound to gain a few pounds.

“Yes Lord Holmgreen,” Imrahil attempted to keep the ire out of his voice.

“Your Excellency I have just myself arrived in this great city of your ancestors and am distressed to find that your most gracious daughter has not been reunited with her family. She fares well? I have heard that the boats bringing the most beautiful swan in Dol Amroth departed from the harbor eight days ago?”

Imrahil’s sixth sense was working overtime with this one. Not only had he known Holmgreen was wanting to see Lothiriel but he also had realized that Lord Holmgreen was just as creepy as his father with his knowledge of things that did not concern him.

“You have checked on my daughter before you have settled into the city? My deepest regards, I did not know you held her health and well being in such high esteem.” He was being as sarcastic as he could be, yet he knew it was lost on this young man. Times were relatively safe so he had not worried that Loti and his grandson and heir to Dol Amroth were a few days late.

“I stopped in Dol Amroth in mid Sulime to pick up some provisions. She was a most excellent hostess. It had been a while since I had seen her but she has grown to be an extremely beautiful woman. Her grace and presence has endured her people to her; they followed her every word as if the gods themselves had spoken. She is well suited for the life of ruling but do you want that precious, svelte, dark haired beauty wasting away in the castle? I have a proposition for you if I may be so bold in asking for your permission. The war has taught me that if you wait for the things you want you may end up dead and not able to enjoy them so I am taking initiative and asking you first. You must admire a man who takes initiative. ”

“Will he ever shut up?” Imrahil thought to himself. He had long ago stopped listening to the droning of this young lord but he still rambled on. “Take initiative! He did not even fight on the fields! How dare he talk as if he was at the battle or even remotely in conflict!” Imrahil was boiling over now!

“Remain calm Imrahil,” he kept saying over and over to himself. “Remain calm.” Then he heard a second voice, a voice that he knew would bring salvation.

“Ah uncle! I was wondering where you had gotten to. I was expecting you nigh an hour ago.” Faramir knew the situations going on with his uncle and though amused saw that Imrahil’s ire was about to spill over.

“Excuse me my lord but I have urgent business to discuss with my uncle.”

Imrahil looked to Faramir with gratefulness in his eyes. Now he was able to speak to Holmgreen.

“Yes, it was good seeing you too. I am sorry to hear about your father, he was a brave solider. I shall see you at the celebrations.” The prince had blocked out almost everything the lord had said concerning Lothiriel or anything else.

Faramir pushed his uncle away and escorted him into a small room off the main path. Locking the door behind them he let out a chuckle as his uncle rolled his eyes and wrung his hands.

“What am I to do Faramir? It was bad enough having lords and ladies seek out my sons but what am I to do once Lothiriel arrives? Elphir has refused to remarry, and Erchirion and Amrothos find it hilarious to mess with the family’s daughters. Adding to my grief is my unbetrothed 20 year old daughter being among the men at Cormallen. ”

“Amrothos and Erchirion find the fuss over them so distasteful that they have found ways to rebel against it. I do not blame Elphir for not remarrying, he had the love of his life and now she is gone. He has Alphros to think about now that the war is over. If I had lost Eowyn I know that I would not take another for she is the only one I will ever need.”

“Do not get all sentimental on me my boy. You have not even asked Eomer for her hand.”

Faramir tensed and Imrahil knew that this is why he had been called for.

“Eomer is an intensely protective brother; and I see his reasoning given the situation. But he has to know that she is her own person and that she has her own choices to make. I need you to feel the king out and see if you can make him see that she does not need his protection. That I love her and she me and that I will make her a good husband. No harm shall come to her while I draw breath.”

Now not only was Imrahil having to fend off offers for his children but he was going to act as nursemaid for his nephew while pleading Faramir’s case before the king. Life was not going to return to normal and right now he wished for a band of orc to slay; at least they would have been better to deal with then all of this.

“What of Eowyn? Surly she can persuade her brother, or just ignore him and do what she wants.” Imrahil was trying to get rid of one extra duty.

“There is a riff between them right now and she is torn. She agrees with me that perhaps some fatherly persuasion might be able to get him to see reason.”

Just then there was a banshee wail from outside! It sounded as if someone was in their last blood curdling death throws and both men rushed out with swords drawn!

“WAHHH!” The screaming and crying was deafening! Imrahil saw Lord Holmgreen standing in front of a familiar looking woman who was holding a screaming, flailing child in her arms.

“What on Middle Earth are you doing to that child!” Faramir spoke first as he came between Holmgreen and the woman. The child stopped his crying upon seeing Faramir and settled down completely with a glance toward Imrahil.

“Lord Holmgreen what are you doing assaulting my daughter and grandson!” Imrahil was now being restrained, though lightly, by Aragorn who had ran outside to see what was going on.

Aragorn was going to have to think quickly to keep bloodshed down but luckily Lothiriel spoke and diffused the situation.

“Lord Holmgreen just frightened Alphros father. It has been a long tiring trip for a two year old to make and he is tired and cranky. Holmgreen’s presence and rough manners just scared him. That is all, is it not.” She was soothing the little boy now.

The look Imrahil flashed Holmgreen could have caused his flesh to melt off his body but the lord did not take heed of the prince’s ire.

“My apologies my lovely princess. Perhaps we can meet in private at a later date.”

“I do not think my daughter will have the time Lord Holmgreen. And if you harm my family again you will not live to see Loti again! You have exactly 5 seconds to remove yourself from my sight or I am going to…” Aragorn was having a difficult time restraining Imrahil now.

“Father, you should rest.” Lothiriel moved toward him and took his arm while adjusting Alphros onto her hip.

“Let us go to our tents and rest. It has been a tiring journey for us and I do not desire to have my family in trouble with the king. There has been so much bloodshed already.” She smiled at Aragorn and bowed to both he and Faramir.

“Cousin I hope to have the privilege of visiting with you soon. I have heard,” here she looked at her father. “That there is a certain Rohirric Shield Maiden that has captured you heart. I can not wait to hear about her and hopefully met the woman who has tamed the Captain of Gondor.”

“I can not wait to introduce you to Lady Eowyn. She is slightly older then you and I have a feeling that you will be a great help to her in the upcoming months as she transition to Gondorian life.” He bowed to his youngest cousin.

“I look forward to it.” She walked away with her father on one arm and Alphros in the other. The matronly persona was not lost on those that watched them go.

“I can not believe she is not spoken for yet Faramir.”

Faramir almost got a chance to answer but Holmgreen interrupted. “She shall be as soon as I have time to speak properly with her father.”

Aragorn threw his kingly weight around with Lord Holmgreen while the Dol Amroth family was making their escape. Aragorn had met with stubborn resistance with orc on the field of battle but Lord Holmgreen was another beast entirely. The fool did not get it at all that Imrahil did not want him around. Holmgreen did not get it that Aragorn would gladly filet him alive if he even tried to harm Imrahil’s family. This man was dumber then an orc, for at least orc realized when they were vanquished!

As Faramir watched Lothiriel walk to the tents a plan formed in his mind. He quickly left to seek out his beloved and tell her of his idea.


Chapter 2 - How the Garden Grows

The field was covered in bright colored tents and banners as far as the eye could see. In the center of Cormallen were three mounds upon which sat three thrones. Behind each throne flew the king’s banner. Elessar’s banner was in the center with the white horse upon a green field flying proudly to his left, and the dark blue and silver Swan banner waved just as proudly to the right. The sight of people relaxing and enjoying themselves among the ever protective watch of the kings was something Lothiriel would never forget. It made all the trials her family had gone through disappear for the moment.

“Will this peace last father,” she asked hoping beyond hope that his answer would be yes?

“There will always be enemies at our doorstep but the reunited kingdoms will prevail under King Aragorn.”

“And under the princes of Dol Amroth and Ithilien. One man can not rule alone father. Our king will need your help and your advice.”

“And I plan to give it to him. As soon as I can free myself from all these useless, silly trivial matters.” He had said the last under his breath but Lothiriel heard him.

“What useless, silly trivial matters bother you father?”

Secrets were not something that the family kept from each other. And besides Imrahil thought that soon enough she would be thrown full force into his trivial matters.

“Lord Shannon is trying to persuade me that his daughter is a perfect match for Elphir. It was all I heard for days; him pleading her case. Elphir refuses to remarry and I have told Lord Shannon that I will not force him to. Needless to say it has upset the party from Lebennin quite a lot so now I have to somehow find a way to make up to them.”

“You should not have to make up to them. Lord Shannon should realize that Elphir does not want his daughter and that you will not make the match. It is that simple father. The family from Lebennin must learn to deal with disappointment. Besides, it is not like there is a shortage of eligible men for his daughter so a disappointment it is not.”

“Then there is the stir Erchirion and Amrothos are causing. Grown men should now better!” He was exasperated by his son’s behavior to some of the ladies of the courts.

“They are leaving a trail of broken hearts in their wake and it is only making more ladies a lot more determined to tame their wild hearts. Not to mention making it almost impossible to keep up with which families are out of sorts with me. And I thought fighting Corsairs, orc, and all manner of vile beasts would be the most difficult thing I would ever have to do!” He shook his head in defeat.

“Is it so bad that I want to quietly spend the rest of my life in the gardens away from war and strife? Yet I have had to deal with much more of it after our victories. If humans are this crass and base toward each other how will Middle Earth ever rebuild?”

“Not all humans are baseless toward their fellow man father. You are just seeing the most desperate cases. Humanity is still good father, you will see. It is only a few causing problems for you right now that has clouded your vision. We are all together now, things can only get better.”

“Always the optimist.” Imrahil loved his daughter’s bright outlook on life. Even though he wondered how after all she had endured she could keep it.

They were at their tents now and her brothers were coming out to greet their sister and nephew.

“Sister!” Amrothos greeted her first. Giving her a hug and kiss he let the others welcome her.

Elphir greeted her last and rather tentatively. He looked at Alphros in her arms with fear in his eyes. He could now be the father his son needed; but he had never been around the child. He was in battle when he was born and his mother passed on. There had been a time of two months when he had seen his son who was then six months old; but that time the child was ill and in Lothiriel’s or the nurses care most of the time. Would he even know that Elphir was his father? He was terrified of the almost two year old toddler in his sister’s arms.

“Papa,” Alprhos said and reached out for his father. “Papa, papa, papa,” he continued.

Elphir broke down in tears. “How?”

Everyone around them was crying now too. “I used your wedding portrait to teach him who his parents are,” Lothiriel said quietly. “He knows you are papa and he thinks Anee is a sea nymph. I did not know how to teach him that she had died.”

“Sister I do not know how to thank you enough.”

“Alphros will not likely be content around you for a while. It will take time and patients but he is a smart child.” No sooner had Loti spoken her words then Alprhos was reaching for his grandfather.

It broke Elphir’s heart that his bond with his son was not formed yet. “Give it time,” Amrothos finally spoke as Imrahil, Lothiriel and the lad walked into the tent.

He sat outside with his son, rocking the exhausted toddler to sleep. In a brief pause from looking at his son he saw a familiar lady waddling his way. It was Lord Shannon’s daughter, he did not even know her name but his father had told him that she was trying to make a match – with him.

“Oh what a cutie,” she said as she bent down to pinch Alphros cheeks. The child woke with a start and let out a blood curdling squall!

In a moment the lady was moving away from Elphir and Lothiriel was at her brother’s side.

“I did not mean to frighten the child,” at least she was more apologetic then Holmgreen had been.

Lothiriel realized that the lady had no mother skills for even the most inexperienced of mother’s would not wake a child by pinching him! Loti was angry.

“You do not wake a stranger’s child by pinching him who ever you are!” Lothiriel was not doing well keeping her anger inside. “How would you like to be woken by a stranger pinching you?” She turned her focus to Alphros. “You ok my little man?”

Seeing his aunt Alphros calmed down again and smiled. “Cook, cook,” he said with a huge grin.

“I am sorry Lord Elphir, I did not mean to cause your son to cry. I only wanted to see him,” she looked at Loti as she spoke now.

“When he is rested, fed, and clean you may see him. With permission first.” Lothiriel was laying down the ground rules for anyone who desired to see her nephew. “Now if you would allow a father to bond with his son.” She stood between Elphir and the lady and the lady got the message.

Alphros tugged on Lothiriel’s skirt and said, “Cook, cook.”

“Yes, you need a cook, cook,” she said ignoring Elphir for a second. She reached into a pouch tied around her waist and produced a dried fig. Alphros reached for it greedily and soon was enjoying the fruits of his labor.

Elphir was badly shaken by the events of having his peaceful son suddenly crying and flailing in his arms. “Do they always turn that fast? One minute he was a peaceful angle the next a wailing banshee.”

“She woke him up from a comfortable sleep. He has traveled for days and is in a strange place with strange people. He is not the happiest of campers in the field right now. Maybe you should go inside and lay down with him.”

“Ugly, ugly, oogly, cook-cook.” He was pointing at a group of women that were admiring him and his father from afar. “Ugly! Cook Cook, “ he was yelling while still pointing. “UGLY!”

The women were embarrassed to be called ugly by a child and dispersed in a huff! Once they had left Alphros once again tugged on his aunt’s skirt.

“Cook cook cook cook,” he was wanting another fig.

“Sister what have you taught my son?” Elphir was laughing as he realized what had just happened.

“Children are excellent judge of character brother. I have been training Alphros to pick the best characters around him. It works wonders among the over zealous crowd.”

“You have trained my son to scream and wail at annoying people. Brilliant!” He did not know weather to be angry at her or to thank her. With the annoyance that unwanted people had caused lately he decided that his sister really was the brains in the family.

“I am just using what he already does well. You do not want someone in his life that frightens him or is mean to him do you? He is a young child without his mother. Up until now his father was at war and away from him; it is basic survival.” Alphros crawled up tighter to his father as Lothiriel talked.

“I thank you for keeping him well while I was gone.” Elphir took his sister’s hand and squeezed.

“He is a pleasure to keep. I hope you will still allow me to help you with him.”

“I can not raise him without you sister. I have told father I do not desire to remarry. There will be times when I must go out to protect our kingdom and in those times I will need you. I will need you to help me raise this fine boy to be a good man Lothiriel.”

“It is the least I can do.” She hugged her brother.

It had been extremely rough on Elphir to lose his wife in childbirth, a birth that he had not been able to attend due to war. He could not even attend Anee’s funeral and did not see his son and heir until he was six months old. But through it all Lothiriel had taken Alphros as her own, raising him to know his parents even though both were gone. He owed his sister a lot, but she was his sister and one thing the family of Dol Amroth was was a tight knit unit who depended on each other.


Chapter 3 - Weeding out Trouble

It had been a day for Eomer. There was nothing he could think of as evening descended that made it a good day and several things came to mind that made it a bad day. All he wanted to do was wrap his head around the fact that he was now Rohan’s king, and as such he should be in Rohan and not on some field celebrating victory. But that was not going to be easy, and quiet a few of his people were now in celebration at Cormallen as well. Eowyn had tried to tell him that a few days of rest and celebration would be good for their people and for him – but he was stubborn. Theodred should be ruling in his stead now but both son and father were dead. Getting Théoden King’s body back to Edoras and properly buried with his ancestors was another daunting task facing the young king. He was in a foreign land and though he cherished the friendships he had formed and depended on the alliances created he wanted to be home so badly.

Eowyn was also a problem for him. He loved her and did not want her to leave him, especially since the people looked to her for guidance. She would be his biggest helpmate once they were able to return home. Yet she would only be his helpmate for a time for she had fallen in love with the Prince of Ithilien and desired to move into that fair land. He could not, would not let her do something so foolish! He pounded the table beside him and decided that he had to stop his sister’s foolishness tonight before she got it in her head that she would be a Princess of Gondor. How absolutely foolish she was to think that she would thrive in Gondor! Rohan was her home and a Rohirric lord would make her a suitable husband. Eomer’s mind was set and he was determined to stop Eowyn from ruining his life! Now he just needed to find her.

“Faramir I will not hear of this,” Imrahil bellowed! “Has you love for this woman made you completely daft? You act as if you are a young lord in love for the first time. Faramir you are well in your 3rd decade you should know better! What is it with you men now a day that the sight or thought of love makes you act like a teenager?”

Imrahil was pacing like a caged lion. “First my sons and now my nephew acting like fools. What next?” He looked to the tent flap as he spoke; feeling that only he himself was to blame for the appearance of the King of Rohan in his nephew’s tent.

Now a rather pissed off Eomer was eyeing his nephew like a Wraith eyeing a hobbit.

“Sorry I even asked,” Imrahil said to himself. This meeting had the potential to get ugly fast. The prince wished he was standing before the Black Gates again – at least he knew he stood a chance with that enemy. There was no way that this situation would turn out well for him.
*******************************************************************************************************************
“Eowyn! Eowyn I command you to stop,” Eomer’s voice was heard throughout the tented city!

Mordor has no fury like a very angry shield maiden and her brother was about to find out that she, nor her lover were to be trifled with! It just so happened that the eruption took place in front of Prince Imrahil’s tent.

Lothiriel hunkered inside with Alphros sound asleep. She was silently laughing along with her brothers at the heated exchange going on outside. Both brother and sister had switched to Rohirric tongue but every now and then a Gondorian swear word would come from Eowyn’s mouth.

“I did not know Lady Eowyn knew Gondorian. Especially those words!” Erchirion was laughing amusingly to his siblings.

“I have not heard that word spoken in years. Does it mean what I think it means,” Elphir asked?

“Yep, but I do not know if the lady knows what it means,” Lothiriel laughed louder now.

“What does it mean,” Erchirion asked innocently?

“She just called her brother a..” she whispered the rest to Erchirion so that if Alphros was listening he did not hear.

“Oh,” Erchirion looked shocked, repulsed, and in awe of the Lady Eowyn. “Well then I think this battle of wits is won.”

“Oh, she just kicked him in the shin and punched him in the stomach! Does our dear cousin know he has a firebrand in his future?” Elphir had moved to peak out of a tear in the fabric.

“She is beating her brother up?” Lothiriel was really interested in seeing it.

“I am not sure what she is doing but it looks like she has finally lost some steam,” Elphir remarked to the rest.

Lothiriel looked through the tear and saw that the lady was in need of some support and it did not look like it would be coming from her brother. She ran out and put her arms around Eowyn’s who was now slumped on the ground in tears.

Eowyn took a swing at the princess but Loti managed to dodge. “I am not the enemy my lady. I am Lord Faramir’s cousin, Lothiriel of Dol Amroth.”

“Then you are the enemy,” Eomer spoke in Rohirric so Lothiriel did not understand what he said. That was all it took before Eowyn had regained her footing and was once again laying into her brother in Rohirric.

Seeing that it was probably not in her best interest to be between the two whilst they were fighting Lothiriel retreated inside. The arguing went on for sometime before Faramir appeared and Eomer took his grievance up with him. Imrahil and several lords had to finally break up the fight; but not before her cousin had suffered several hard blows from the king.

As the fight was being broken up Erchirion overheard Eowyn say to her brother, “You are dead to me.” The phrase puzzled him greatly but he kept his knowledge silent from the others. However the effect it had on Eomer caused the prince’s heart to break – though Erchirion did not know why he should feel sorry for a man who had insulted his entire family.


Chapter 4 - An Oak in the Wind

Morning finally came and with it wild gossip of the events of the night before. Everyone knew that the king of Rohan had insulted the entire family of Prince Faramir and sides were being taken. Imrahil did not even desire to get out of bed today but he had to. He had been witness to what transpired between Faramir and Eomer in Faramir’s tents and he knew it was just a misunderstanding that caused the row last night; well at least among the two men. Eowyn’s outburst, though justified, took him by surprise. Now all he had to do was prevent a war from breaking out among friends and allies and things should be fine.

Eomer had been put in his place last night first by Faramir and then by Eowyn. He was a big man but this was going to take might to fix the damage he had allowed his stubborn pride to cause. Eowyn hated him. It was not just her being angry at him trying to impose his will on her anger. It was an anger that had been festering inside her ever since their mother had died. The anger had built up during the time their uncle was under Grima’s spell and finally came out in a seething ball of rage. Yes, he was to blame for it coming to light and now he had to fix it. He needed her even if she did not need him and no longer considered him family. This was going to be a harder day then yesterday.

“Princess Lothiriel, there is a Lady Eowyn to see you,” the guard spoke to her as she changed Alphros.

“She is not armed is she?” It was meant as a joke but the guard took it seriously.

“I will check.”

“NO!” She spun around too quickly and to keep her balance reached out for the changing table. There her hand met with a pin. “See her in,” she said as she pulled it out and put a handkerchief on it to stop the bleeding.

Eowyn did not know what to say first. She had come to apologize for last night but she did not know where to start. She noticed that Lothiriel was bleeding and asked if she needed assistance.

“No, I am fine. This is the third time in about as many days that I have jabbed it into myself.” She pulled the handkerchief away. “See, already stopped bleeding.”

“You will put salve on it?”

“Of course. So what may I do for you my lady?” Lothiriel went to a basket and pulled out a vile of salve.

“I am not fit to be called a lady you majesty,” Eowyn said sheepishly. “Not after last night.”

“I have three brothers myself. I know how difficult they can be when they think that they have my best intentions in mind. But it is always their intentions they have in mind when they try to impose rules and regulations.” Lothiriel had always gotten along well with her brothers, but she had heard from Faramir and her father about the conversations from last night and knew what troubled the fair lady.

“I know! Eomer can be such a boar at times.” They had hit upon something to talk about for the rest of the day.

Eomer walked out of his tent in search of his sister. People avoided him like the plague; it was very disconcerting to be avoided like that. Even the women kept their distance! Was he that much of a piece of horse dung that even whores would not seek his company? He knew the answer to that question, a resounding yes. Yes he was the lowest form of human right now for he had purposefully driven his sister away and had tried to ruin any chance of happiness she might ever know. If he could distance himself from himself he would have gladly done it. All he could do now was beg for his sister’s forgiveness, apologize to Faramir and his family, and make a formal declaration of apology to those who witnessed last nights events.

He knew she would be in the company of those from Dol Amroth. Where else would she go to find shelter since she refused to ever step foot inside the tents of Rohan again? Imrahil’s daughter would probably have taken her in by now. If she would forgive his sister for taking a swing at her. Oh, and what had he said to her? Yes, now he remembered calling the princess an enemy. At least he spoke in Rohirric so there was the possibility she did not understand what he had said in anger. But what if she did? Eowyn would probably still be angry with him and he knew that she could spread malice about him to Faramir’s family. Not that he needed any help on looking like a totally evil fool to Faramir’s family. Hopefully Imrahil would remember his deeds on the battlefields and offer some forgiveness. So he headed toward the Swan tents.

A ball rolled before him as he got closer to the tents. He stopped and picked it up looking for its owner. Sure enough he saw a little boy, no more than a few years he guessed, emerge from the shadows.

“Here you go,” Eomer tossed it to the child.

The child caught it and tossed it back to Eomer. Pretty amazing skill for a toddler Eomer thought. It took the king a second to realize the child wanted to play. The child’s laugh was infectious and he decided that a few tosses would be ok. Things could not get any worse and those he needed to speak to would still be there once he finished playing with the child. Besides, he had to show that he was not a boar without any emotions. He sure had not helped out the stereotype that Gondorians viewed Rohirrim as barbaric.

Lothiriel’s jaw dropped at the site of Alphros playing with Eomer! She motioned toward the open flap for Eowyn to look. Eowyn turned pale and turned back around.

“I do not want to face him Lothiriel. He hates me.”

“We have spent much of the day talking about this Eowyn. You both must speak with each other. He is probably here to do just that. I will take Alphros to see the horses and you two can talk in private here.”

Lothiriel walked toward her nephew then turned to speak to Eowyn. “Besides if Alphros is having so much fun with him he is not that bad. My nephew is an excellent judge of character and since he is not screaming his head off at the sight of you brother I believe that he is not the boar you think him to be.”

Eomer had tossed the ball with the child a few times before he noticed Lothiriel coming toward them. He got nervous but decided that the child offered the best diversion. He continued to throw the ball but Alprhos also saw his aunt coming toward him and took off running to meet her.

She picked up her once again filthy nephew and laughed. Dirt was good for a child and Alphros could attract the dirt. She continued toward Eomer.

“Eowyn waits inside. You need to speak with her. She does not hate you or wish you dead.” She tried to give the king a reassuring smile.

“I am sorry for my actions last night.” He bowed to her and did not rise back up until she spoke.

“Things will get themselves worked out my king. Speak gently to her; I do not want to see her beat you up again.”

For some reason the princess’ joke broke his tension. “You saw that?”

“Everyone saw that,” she turned to leave.

“Princess Lothiriel, may I ask to speak with you later today? In private,” he said the last part in a sheepish manner. “It concerns my sister’s transition to Gondorian life.”

So he had come around! Lothiriel was glad to hear it! “Of course my king. Just let Eowyn know when a good time will be and I will meet with you.”

“Thank you Princess Lothiriel. I do not deserve you or your family’s kindness but since it is offered I will gladly take it.”

As he walked into the tent he had a calm feeling that perhaps things were not going to be so bad. Nope, he was wrong. Only a few seconds of entering the tent Faramir entered unannounced.


Chapter 5 - One More Thing

King Elessar had called an impromptu meeting today and as much as Eomer desired to speak with his sister Faramir had come to inform him about the king’s wishes.

“I am sorry sister,” Eomer said sincerely realizing time was short. “I can think of no finer man then Lord Faramir for your husband and if you still consent to the marriage I will give you my blessing.” He had to get everything he thought of last night into a few short sentences.

Faramir shifted uneasily, waiting for Eowyn to answer.

“Thank you Eomer,” she hugged him tightly. “I do wish to marry Faramir and he will make me an excellent husband. But you are not angry at me for leaving Rohan?”

“Nay sister, your absence will make it easier for my queen to rule. Having two stubborn, independent women under my roof can not be good for Rohan or myself,” he laughed as he bowed to her to take his leave.

“The queen will have to have a strong will to put up with your ranting brother.”

Eomer turned to Faramir and offered his hand in friendship. “Take good care of her my friend, my brother, for I might have given my blessing I will not hesitate to kick your Gondorian ass if she comes to harm.” He laughed and left the tent.

Faramir kissed Eowyn goodbye with the promise that he would see her later tonight.

Faramir and Eomer’s arrival together caused quit a stir among the attending lords of Gondor. Here were two sworn enemies if rumor was to be believed walking together and talking as if they were old friends! Needless to say it did not sit well with several lords that the two were on good terms; but for Imrahil the truce was very pleasing. Aragorn greeted his friends warmly and once all were seated the meeting began.

Eowyn caught up with Lothiriel and Alphros at the stables.

“My lady, are things good? I did not expect to see you so soon,” Lothiriel said worriedly.

“Yes, yes, things are fine. Aragorn called a meeting today and that is where they are.”

“They?”

“Faramir and my brother. Faramir came to tell Eomer of the change in plan. They seemed to have made up and Eomer even gave me his blessing!” Eowyn was gushing at the last bit of news.

“Then I am happy for you and can not wait to call you sister,” Loti hugged her while Alphros walked around them.

“So shall we start teaching you the finer things of noble Gondorian women?” Lothiriel said with a smile. “Lesson one, they are a bunch of conniving, ruthless, bitches that would rather tear you to shreds then look at you civilly.”

“I have not had to deal with courtly women in a very long time Lothiriel.”

“I have no doubt that you can handle anyone who bares her claws; but being from Rohan you should be extra careful not to fall into their traps. Not that I think there will be too many ladies upset with you for marrying my cousin. But nonetheless it is always good to be prepared. I can show you the customs if you like and teach you what to look for in an unsavory person.”

“That would be lovely.” Eowyn looked past the princess into the stable. The Rohirric horses seemed to know she was near and had started neighing. Alphros was petting the smaller ones but eyed the Rohirric war horses with careful admiration.

“Would you like to ride one,” Eowyn said as she came up behind the child?

Alphros eyes grew wide with excitement and he looked toward Loti.

“If you feel you can handle a two year old I think it would be wonderful to take him for a ride.”

Alphros reached up for Eowyn to pick him up. “Give me a minute to get her ready little one.”

Lothiriel held her nephew until Eowyn had saddled the horse. The groomswoman had come to help. She was from Rohan as well and her and Eowyn conversed in their native tongue. “Would you like to ride,” Eowyn asked Lothiriel?

“I will leave you two to ride.” Loti was wanting a few moments alone and this was her chance. “I could use a respite for a while. Where are you going?”

“We will ride to the far end of camp and back. We will not be gone too long.”

“I will be in my tent.” Lothiriel watched the two ride away with her nephew laughing the whole time.

Imrahil had a massive headache and by the looks of their king so did Aragorn. The bickering, fighting, arguing among the lords was too much! But that was exactly why Aragorn had called the meeting, to bring everyone together to voice their concerns and fears as peace settled. Most of the lords had never known a time when destruction was not on their doorstep. There would be a lot of free time and what to do with that spare time was something to consider. Eomer had been quiet for the most part, though Aragorn tried to get him to speak his mind on matters at hand. That was Eomer, contemplative until roused and a force to be reckoned with once provoked. Unfortunately provocation came soon enough.

It was dusk when Imrahil and his sons returned to their tents. “Elphir, may I have a word with you.” He was serene and tired.

“Yes father,” Elphir said as he walked on with Imrahil while his brothers went to their tents.

“You are my heir Elphir, Alphros is yours. When I die and you take your place who will be your helpmate? Who will raise Alphros with a mother’s touch?” Imrahil was trying to politely bring up the touchy subject.

“Lothiriel of course. She said herself that she wants to help me with Alphros.”

“Yes, yes I know but she is your sister and as a princess she will marry away from Dol Amroth.”

“Yes, but she will be close by.”

“Just think about perhaps taking another wife. It would not have to be soon and it would only be someone you and Alphros truly liked. Just help me bye some time Elphir.” He was imploring his son.

“Father, I understand where you are coming from and I understand your plight. I will allow ladies into Alphros and my life but on my terms. I will not promise you I will chose to remarry but I will promise that I will entertain the lord’s daughters to my abilities. If it would help make things easier for you.”

“It would. Now if I can just get your brothers to see the reasoning. I would never make a match that my children found unfavorable but I need time to get the lords off my back so I can consult the king. You saw them today; it is getting dangerous for the king.”

“You mean it is getting dangerous for the lords that plot against the king. Aragorn can handle any foe father.”

“I wish I had your optimism,” Imrahil was so tired now.

“Father, I will talk to my brothers. Help them see the foolishness of their ways and direct them to a temporary solution. They will agree with me. But what of Lothiriel?”

Imrahil just walked away from his son and into his tent. He went to the press and took out a skin of his finest cider. It had been a long day and a long drink would do him good; just as he broke the seal Lothiriel came in, in very bad spirits.

“Loti what is wrong,” he asked as he got up and hugged his daughter?

“I hate them father! I hate them all! Every last Gondorian lord in this camp!”

“Loti,” he tried to console her but she was not consolable. She jerked away.

“Lord Holmgreen has invited himself to dinner this evening, Lords Abell and Bell have expressed interest in keeping appointments with me, and Lord Gilmore is engaged!”

Ah, now he was getting to the root of the problem! Lothiriel had eyes for Lord Gilmore for years and now seeing that he was engaged to be wed hurt her. Of course it hurt her she was still fragile underneath her roughened exterior. He had forgotten that she was so tender toward Gilmore and hated to see her so sad. But usually things like this would not bother her so much.

“If it is any consolation I will not allow Holmgreen to dine with us, ever. As for Lord Gilmore I can do nothing about his engagement. I know it hurts Loti but you must look past his shortcomings and realize that besides the lords you mentioned there is a field of men out there.”

He could not believe he was having this conversation with his daughter! Should not a mother influence be telling her these things? Was he to treat her as he did his sons or should he be gentler? Might as well treat her like the rest.

“Lothiriel, I have asked your brothers to entertain offers from suitors to give me some time so I can look after our king. I do not care how you entertain them but would you do me the same favor?”

Her high pitched cry before she burst into tears let him know the answer. She would, but she would not be happy about it. He had been around men too long. He could deal with anything they threw at him but he was at a complete lose about how to deal with his daughter and her moods. Perhaps it was her cycle, her mother got the same way; weepy at anything at her time of month. He did the only thing he knew; he offered her a glass of his finest cider.


Chapter 6 - This is Fun

Things had been quiet for Imrahil. Indeed the past two weeks had been so quiet that he had the time to spend tending the ancient roses and enjoying the other gardens. Getting his hands dirty with soil instead of gore lightened his heart! But somewhere in his mind he wondered where the next challenge to his now peaceful existence would come from. He only had to wait until the first day of Lotesse to find out.

He was enjoying himself in the gardens with no interruptions, no fights to break up, no angry lords and ladies threatening him. His children had been true to their words and were entertaining suitors. Amrothos had found a suitable match from Lebennin and Elphir was seeking the favors of a lady. What lady he did not know; but rumor had it that the lady was from Rohan and bore a resemblance to Anee. His eldest son’s situation with the woman could become volatile in the future but Imrahil decided not to dwell on it as of now. It was only when he looked up did he see his nephew coming toward him. Flushed in the face and out of breath from running.

“Uncle, do you have a moment?” Faramir was nervous about something.

“Of course, what is it?” He was trying to be fatherly.

“Uncle, it has been brought to my attention by Eowyn that the lady Elphir is seeking the favor of is Eomer’s betrothed.”

It felt as if someone had punched him in the gut. The curses Imrahil muttered under his breath caused Faramir to look on in amazement! Half of the words of curse he had never heard before, the other half he had heard hardened soldiers, mostly sailors utter them.

“How did Eowyn come to know of it and does her brother?” Perhaps he could nip it in the bud if he acted quickly enough.

“Eomer is riding with the lady in question today. They are engaged to be married the day after Theoden’s funeral. She returns Elphir’s feelings according to what Eowyn has been able to find out; even though neither one can understand the other to any degree of proficiency. I believe he thinks he has found Anee in this woman. Either way, if she loves him or not Elphir will have to tread carefully,” Faramir stated the obvious.

He did not need this! Did not need his heir fooling around with the King of Rohan’s intended. Perhaps the language barrier could be used as an excuse for Elphir to bow out. But his son had to know she was as well as married to Eomer! Elphir had always been his level headed son, the one who did not besmirch the family name, the one who did his duty and by Valar he was going to do his duty! Imrahil almost popped a vein in his head he was so angry!

“That is absolutely fascinating my lord. You took on them all? Wow, you are so brave.” She was so bored, so tired, and so utterly disgusted with Lord Bell right now that she could not keep the sarcasm out of her voice. But he did not notice.

“Lothiriel,” Imrahil shouted! Thoroughly scaring the piss out of Lord Bell.

She stood up quickly as he stepped into the tent. “Out of the tent now,” Imrahil roared to the young lord. Lothiriel was not sad to see him go but was worried something bad had happened.

“What is it father?”

”What do you know about the woman Elphir is keeping company with?” He sat down and planted his feet firmly on the ground. He would not leave his daughter’s tent until she had explained everything he wanted to know.

“She is from Rohan, she is a stablewoman who works with the Rohirrim’s horses.”

“Yes, yes, I have heard all of that. What else do you know of her?”

Seeing that her father was concerned she told him all that she knew. “She reminds my brother of Anee and Alphros likes her. He does not scream and cry around her at least.”

“Do you know she is soon to be Eomer’s wife? Does Elphir know that she is to be Eomer’s wife? The Queen of the Mark, married to my friend and Gondor’s best ally?”

Lothiriel did not know what to say. She had heard that much from Eowyn today. “I did not know until today.”

“Eomer and the lady are riding together today. Tell me, does you brother truly love her? Because if he does I will do everything in my power to make sure he is happy. But if he is clinging to Anee’s image I can not tell you how much damage he has done.” Imrahil grabbed his daughter by the shoulders and shook her gently. He did not know what answer he wanted to hear from his daughter but he knew she knew her brother’s heart.

“What if he does love her? Will you ask Eomer to arrange a formal meeting with her family if you give him your blessing?”

“I would have no choice. I do not know how I would be able to anything else.”

“He loves her well enough. Being with her has devoured his thoughts as of late.”

“Have they…” but the look on his daughter’s face answered his question.

“So I am going to have to arrange for a meeting with Eomer at least. How could Elphir do this to me?” He was beyond wits end!

“Ask Eowyn and Faramir to counsel you on this matter father. They would have the best knowledge of what to do.”

He was walking out the door the next second, leaving his daughter confused and frightened at what he might do next.

Lothiriel wanted to go look for her brother, to warn him of their father’s wrath and that Eomer probably knew he had been with Drucilla. But she did not have the chance to as the King of Rohan appeared at the door, effectively blocking her way out.

“King Eomer what brings you here,” she tried to act innocent but knew her voice betrayed the nervousness she felt?

“Where is you brother?” He took a few steps in trying to bully her – bad mistake.

“Which one?” She walked right up to him staring him down. She had not ruled Dol Amroth during war only to be bullied by some king!

“Elphir,” he said a little uncomfortable now by how close the princess was.

“He is with his son and I strongly advise you to not bother him in the child’s presence.” Nope, she would not back down. Not when Alphros might be in danger.

“Do not toy with me princess. I know that he has been with Drucilla.”

“I do not toy with you king Eomer,” she was giving him an attitude. “Siblings wish for each others happiness do they not? They desire for their safety, their comfort above their own. I love my brother as you love your sister and I will not betray him. “Perhaps Drucilla returns my brother’s adoration.” She wanted to twist the knife deeper.

“She does,” he said it calmly and it completely took the wind out of Lothiriel. “That is why I am here princess. I do not want to harm Elphir, only congratulate him on being the best man for Drucilla.” He noticed the confused look on her face and found it absolutely beautiful.

“Then why were you acting like a boar?”

“I have had a bad day, I was relieving stress. That is all.”

“You do see why I would be so defensive,” she walked away from him.

“Yes, I do and that is admirable.”

He was beginning to see Faramir was right when he suggested, along with Eowyn, that Lothiriel would make a good queen. In fact his soon to be brother-in-law and love struck sister had been dangling the idea of Lothiriel and him almost since the beginning of peaceful times. Until today he had not considered her because Drucilla had been chosen for him. But since she loved Elphir there was not much Eomer could do except…he could not, he would not. No, he had too. He could not contain his wicked grin.

“Excuse me Princess Lothiriel,” he bowed to her. “I must speak with your father. Please relay to your brother that at his convenience, with Imrahil’s permission, I will arrange for Drucilla’s family to meet with them to discuss futures arrangements.” He took his leave.

Lothiriel was more confused now then when her father left. Eomer was such an enigma to her but she must now find her brother and tell him of the conversation. She was about to leave when Lord Holmgreen entered the tent.

She had had enough! “Lord Holmgreen I am in urgent search for Elphir, please excuse me.” She pushed by him but he grabbed her arm.

Kneeing him in the groin felt good, so good that she did it several more times while he lay on the ground writhing in pain. Lothiriel was against violence and was shocked to realize how good it felt to finally get pent up frustration out! Eomer’s comments about behaving badly when he had a bad day made much more sense to her now.

“Now excuse me,” she said as she stopped kicking him. “I must speak to my brother.” She composed herself and set off to find Elphir and her nephew.

"Oh Valar damn it!" Imrahil shouted to himself as he saw Eomer coming toward him and Lord Holmgreen lying in front of Lothiriel’s tent. This was not going to be good at all!


Chapter 7 - Passive Agressive

Imrahil could not find sympathy for Lord Holmgreen; he knew that the young lord deserved whatever Lothiriel had done to him. However this event would add one more thing to take his time away from gardening. The King of Rohan of course would take precedent over Lord Holmgreen and Eomer seemed amused by the lord. Being generous the horselord offered his hand to the man and pulled him up. Holmgreen was having a hard time standing straight but tried to shake it off.

Seeing Imrahil the lord blushed for a second. He had been completely humiliated in public by the princess and now before her father and, as if it mattered, the King of Rohan. Words seemed to leave him for once.

“What did you do to my daughter,” Imrahil demanded? Eomer was backing him up which added to Holmgreen’s discomfort.

“My humble prince I did nothing but block her way from her brother.”

“You know how important family is to my daughter. Why did you find it wise to attempt such a foolish thing? How did you block her?”

“I misjudged and grabbed her arm.”

“You assaulted my daughter!” Imrahil would not tolerate a lowly lord touching his daughter in such rough fashion! Eomer stopped the prince from harming Holmgreen further.

Regaining his composure Imrahil said, “You will never seek out Lothiriel’s company again Lord Holmgreen. If she is so much as bruised by your actions I will take this matter up with the courts. Now take your pathetic carcass out of my sight!”

The lord left with his tail tucked between his legs. He had known better then to grab a woman as roughly as he did but the princess had excited his every fiber and he wanted her to know how much she meant to him. She would not stay still, that was her fault that he had to grab her. It did not matter now; Imrahil would never let him look upon her again. Lord Holmgreen did not even have any rights in the courts for he had admitted to using force to retain the princess; though she made him pay for it. His manhood was questioned now so he had no outlet with his family. It was over – at least with him.

Eomer was in a much lighter mood since speaking with Lothiriel and forming his plan; but he still wanted to have some devious fun with Elphir. In order to do that though Imrahil would have to sweat for a little while longer.

“Thank you my friend, I would have killed that bastard if you had not stopped me.” Imrahil was thankful for Eomer’s presence but dreaded it as well. “That would have been a really bad situation to handle.”

“He was a worm, not worth your energies. Anyway I need your attention now and having you in trouble for killing, no matter how justified, would not help me find a solution for your son’s problem.”

“How bad is the situation with my eldest son?” Might as well be straight forward with the king since this situation was beyond volatile.

“Elphir has taken my intended queen from me and my people. The news has spread quickly throughout my camp. They see it as a slight against their king. I can not rule effectively if I do not try to placate my peoples in this matter. I can not just turn the other cheek.”

“No, of course not.” For a young king Eomer was wise beyond his years and Imrahil felt a little better about the outcome. “From what I have heard from my daughter Elphir loves this woman. You see my predicament do you not. My heir, who had sworn to never fall in love again or remarry, has done so to a foreign woman. Not only a foreign woman but one betrothed to the king! I seek your mercy Eomer King to not break my heart. Ask what you want and I will tread into the stormy waters with my son.”

He could no longer let Imrahil sweat. “Drucilla, the lady in question, returns your son’s love. I can not go against their love and I have decided to let the happy couple be. But you see my predicament now. In allowing them to be together my people will see me as being weak; so there will have to be some retribution. Even if only ceremonial.” Eomer eyed Imrahil with a knowing glance.

The king had given Imrahil several ideas. “Ceremonial you say. Such as?” Imrahil liked the idea of pomp and circumstance as long as it helped his family stay together.

“You do not deserve Eomer’s kindness brother but I am relieved that he has offered it. So now what will you do?”

“Kiss the king’s feet and worship him from afar!” Elphir was beside himself with joy and relief.
“I must go talk to him now.” Elphir gave Alphros to his sister and went to find Eomer.

“Your father is completely daft Alphros, you know that,” she said to the child as she walked to her tents.

Lothiriel decided to see if her father was in and came across him discussing ceremony with Eomer. Not just any ceremony but Gondorian courting ceremony, which she thought odd.

“Ah, Loti just who I wanted to speak to,” her father greeted her warmly, directing her to sit beside the king. “I need your understanding and cooperation on this matter please Lothiriel. Actually Elphir needs you understanding and cooperation. ”

“He does not deserve it but for the child I will see how understanding and cooperative I could be.”

“Eomer’s people will want him to chose another to replace Drucilla’s lose. We have been thinking that if he was to court a Gondorian lady then they would be appeased. And with having Eowyn wed a Gondorian prince the ties would be seen as stronger.”

“So who is this Gondorian lady that would appease the Rohirric king and his people?” She did not have to ask but she might as well.

“It would be for as long as you granted me permission to court you,” Eomer spoke quietly beside the princess. “I am not asking for you to do anything you do not desire, but since you have been entertaining lords already why not a Rohirric king? I am thinking at least until we return to Edoras with my uncle. Then we can cite distance or whatever you wish for why we dissolve our courtship.”

“Well, sounds like a win-win situation for everyone involved. With Eomer King as my suitor no other lord would be so bold to ask for my favor; and my father would have one less child to worry about. Elphir will get his wife and a suitable mother for Alphros; again one more thing less to worry my father. Rohan’s people will see their king vindicated by having a poor Gondorian lass dragged through a crash course in Rohirric traditions. Well, where do I sign?”

“Great”, Imrahil thought. Lothiriel is going to be passive aggressive about this and a more volatile situation then with Elphir will soon present itself. “That will be Eomer’s and Loti’s problem,” he said to himself as he smiled a false smile at the two before him.



Maybe to be continued with Loti and Eomer ironing out their differences.
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