Work Text:
Éowyn, or Dernhelm as she was currently calling herself, had ridden for some days with the Riders of Rohan, when they came to a small settlement and a halt was called. It was decided that, although it was still early, they would spend the night there and benefit from some additional rest, which would be good for both riders and horses.
Various young women came to help serve food and drink and as they ate, Éowyn caught the eye of one of the women. She was perhaps not as pretty as some of the others, but she had a lively expression and seemed to be assessing those she was serving. Éowyn smiled at her, but she only nodded back, politely enough, but not exhibiting any particular interest.
When they had finished eating, Éowyn strolled out of the inn, leaving most of the riders inside, where they seemed to be settling in for an evening of drinking with a number of the locals. It was a warm evening, so she walked down the path which she knew led to the stream they had crossed as they entered the settlement.
There she met the woman she had seen earlier. “Hello again,” she called. “It’s a lovely evening.”
“Yes, sir,” the other replied.
“Do you come out here often?”
“Sometimes.”
“I’m surprised you’re not back at the inn. Most people seemed pleased to have the chance to talk to some different folk.”
“I’m not like most people. And it’s easier for me if I don’t stay in such situations.”
“Oh, I’m sorry if I embarrassed you. That wasn’t my intention.”
“It’s nothing like that. I have said that no living man would win my love, so my neighbours like to find someone suitable who will prove me wrong. Do I shock you?”
“Not at all. But I may you shock you.” Éowyn let down her hair.
“Oh!”
“I must ask you to keep this a secret.”
“Of course.”
“What’s your name?”
“Adaryn.”
They smiled at each other.
“Would you like me to show you the path up by the stream?” Adaryn asked.
“Yes, very much.”
They walked slowly up the path, talking all the way. When the time came when Adaryn said they should turn back they kissed and then walked back together hand in hand.
Once they were back where they had met, Éowyn said, “It would probably be best if we are not seen together. Give me a couple of minutes before you go home. I have a mission to undertake, but once that is completed, I promise I will return and we shall be together then.”
“I shall be there to serve breakfast tomorrow and then will wave you all off,” Adaryn replied. “And although it will not be obvious, be sure I am waving to you.”
They kissed again, Éowyn pulled her hair up inside her cap, and then walked away, as if she had simply been enjoying the evening air, but smiling internally at what she had done.