Aria the Black (Book 2 of the Daughters of Durin Trilogy)

Chapter 23: King Théoden's Return

"Edoras and the Golden Hall of Meduseld. There dwells Théoden, King of Rohan, whose mind is overthrown. Saruman's hold over King Théoden is now very strong. Be careful what you say. Do not look for welcome here." Gandalf announced to his fellow riders as they entered the foreign land.

The small group surveyed the villages in front of them, including the Golden Hall as they trotted through the crowds of men. They were quite a sight- Gandalf made himself very distinguishable as a wizard in his grey robes, hiding his true white attire below. Ravonna did as well, clad in her own white tunic and black pants. Her short stature also added to the public's confusion, causing an eruption of whispers throughout the crowd. The other three were questionable, being that they were of three completely different races. Most of the people had never seen a dwarf or Elf before, let alone riding together as friends.

Back at the entrance of the Golden Hall, Éowyn burst through the enormous wooden doors, tears running down her face. The loss of her dear cousin, Théodred, had upset her, and the snake they called Gríma had even tried to comfort her. His affection towards her was beyond repulsive, despicable, and could not even be called genuine. In addition to this newfound drama, Éowyn was battling her uncle's sickness. He had been indifferent to even his son's death, and watching him become  further lost was killing her.

But a shocking sight met her eyes as she saw the five riders approaching. Their attire and variety of race left her with additional suspicion and worry. She ran back inside, alerting their guards immediately to their presence. The poor girl could not bear to face any more unwanted trouble in this single day.

"You'll find more cheer in a graveyard." Gimli remarked at the people's somber expressions.

They soon reached the stairs and scaled them with grace, meeting the King's right hand, Háma, and even more additional guards. Gandalf let out a soft sigh of understanding at the situation, seeing Háma's hesitant glare.

"I cannot allow you before Théoden-King so armed, Gandalf Greyhame. By order of Gríma Wormtongue." He announced, his unsureness reflected in his eyes.

Gandalf nodded in understanding and signalled for the others to surrender their weapons. Ravonna grumbled in annoyance, handing over enough daggers from her cloak to kill the entire human race. Carrying them reminded her of the young Prince Fili, may he rest in peace. It was her tribute to him, seeing as he did the sam, and it also benefitted her greatly in battle.

Aragon too handed over his sword and knives. Legolas gave a little twirl to his knives in typical Elvish nature before handing them over to the guards. Gimli was the last to forfeit his weapons, doing so more than reluctantly.

"Your staff." Háma added, his expertise in weaponry telling him it was more than just decoration.

"Hmm? Oh. You would not part an old man from his walking stick?" He looked at him innocently, his coy demeanor shining like a beacon in his eyes. Ravonna could not help but let a small grin spread across her face at his white lie. Either way, she knew they would accomplish their task- her magic would enter with them, for it needed no talisman.

Háma hesitated for a second, as he should. They held their breath, but luckily, he gestured for them to follow him into the hall. Gandalf gave Aragorn a tiny wink and entered the hall, leaning on Legolas' arm he had so graciously offered.

Inside, the spitting image of vermin himself whispered cockily into the King's ear. "My lord, Gandalf the Grey is coming. He's a herald of woe." Gríma mocked the great wizard.

"The courtesy of your hall is somewhat lessened of late, Théoden King." Gandalf replied, since his ears would not miss such a comment. Ravonna nearly growled at Gríma's audacity and snideness towards her friend, refraining from clenching her fists.