The Return of the King and Queen

Chapter 17: Edoras

They rode throughout the morning and it wasn't long until Edoras came into view. They stopped at the plain field before the city. "Edoras and the Golden Hall of Meduseld. There dwells King Théoden, who's mind is overthrown. Saruman's grip on King Théoden is now very strong." Gandalf said. "Be careful what you say nor do you look for welcome here." he warned. "Let's face the truth, wherever there is evil we are never welcomed." Amdiriel stated. "Very true." Gandalf said as he thought about what she had said and led them to the city.

They entered the city and were greeted by silence, everyone dressed in black, frowns, and stares from everyone they passed. "You find more cheer in a graveyard." Gimli said, everyone, agreeing silently.

Aragorn had caught sight of a lady in white sending at the top of the stairs of the palace, watching them. "Sorrow and hopelessness have dwelt here for too long." Amdiriel said causing the range to look over at her. He nodded in agreement with her and looked back to the top of the stair of the palace to find the location where the woman stood now empty.

They reached the stairs and dismounted the horses and ascended the stairs only to be stopped by a guard by the name of Hama as soon as they reached the top of the stairs. "I can not allow Théoden-King so armed Gandalf Greyhem by order of Grima Wormtongue." he said, the guard did his best to not spit out the name. Gandalf, of course, nodded in understanding and motioned for the four to give up their weapons.

Gimli reluctant for a second, handed over his axes, while Aragorn took off his sword, unsheathed his knife, and handed over his bow and arrows. Legolas pulled the knives from his back, twirling in their hands to show his skill before handing them over, then gave the guard his bows and quiver of arrows.

"I am afraid that you are not the exception, Lady Amdiriel." Hama told her. "Hama, really?" she asked. "I am sorry, they are Wormtongue's orders." he explained. Amdrieil let out a huff but did as she was told. She handed over her bow and quiver before unbuckling her belt that held her dagger and sword but she made sure to keep the dagger in her boot hidden from sight.

"Although we, soldiers know we don't need them." said Gambling from the side with a smirk. "It's good t see you too Gamblimg." she replied.

"Your staff." Hama ordered Gandalf looked to his staff "Oh..." he said and then lend on it a bit more, playing the role of the old man. "...you would not part a man from his walking stick?" he asked. Hama looked at Gandalf for a moment but nodded and turned to lead them in.

As soon as Hama's back was turned Gandalf shot Aragorn a wink making Aragorn smile. Legolas then offered his arm to the 'old man' as they were walked into the throne room. Hama bowed and turned to let the others in, he moved to the side to join his guards while the others walked into the room. The door closing loudly behind them, causing all to turn and see them locked in. Gandalf let go of Legolas and continued walking. The room was dark lite only by the few windows that let light in. Across the room sat two men, one sat on the throne old, weak and sick, the other was dressed in black, pale skin and greasy black hair he sat at the king's side. Amdiriel could tell he was a worm. The man in black leaned over and whispered to the king "My lord, Gandalf the Grey is coming."

Amdiriel and Aragorn spotted a group of men off to the side, eyeing them and following their every move, both Amdiriel and Aragorn glared right back at them, showing no fear.

"The courtesy of your Hall is somewhat lessened of late, Théoden King." said Gandalf. "He's a herald of woe...He's not welcomed." Grima whispered to the king.

"Why should I... welcome you, Gandalf... Stormcrow?" asked the king and looked over to Grima.

"A just question, my liege." Grima said, stood up, and walked towards them. "Late is the hour in which this conjurer chose to appear. Lathspeel I name him. Ill news is an ill guest." the man hissed, standing in front of an irritated Gandalf.