She had always had to prove herself. Not only had she to be as good as Eomer and Theodred, often she had to be better. They could express pain when a hit got past their defenses, but she must not.

Robb, though, seemed honest in his statement that she did not have to do so. She would not believe him yet, but it was good that he said it. It was far more than others did.

"Of course," Eowyn said. "The Rohirrim are known as the Horse Lords. All must be able to fight mounted and unmounted with sword and spear. Why?"