Aragorn and Arwen had been married only five years when she gave birth to their first child. Not a son as expected, but a daughter. 'the child you foresaw was obviously not out first!' beamed Aragorn cradling her. 'Then we are to be blessed with more children!' Arwen gasped. A joyful day in Gondor it was, as news spread of a princess. It was no surprise she was beautiful, her elven blood shimmered, in an age of middle earth where magic was almost diminished, something shone in her, A light not seen since the elder days, a light of strength and promise and hope to the age of men. They named her Celuthien in honour of her kin passed and she was beheld by all, as a wonder of the new age. In time Arwen bore Aragorn a son, Eldarion . A strong noble prince from the day of his birth. Unlike his sister before him, he showed little elven resemblance but instead mirrored his father in every way. The heir of Gondor was the image of Aragorn in his younger days, his strong features and dark hair, and his piercingly protective eyes persuaded anyone who looked at him to trust him instantly. The children grew happily in a time of peace. Eldarion grew and matured much quicker than Celuthien, as her elven blood was stronger she was almost one hundred years before she resembled a full grown woman. Though Eldarion was not elven he inherited his fathers gift of long life, at one hundred years old, he stood a strong kingly man. A skilled swordsman and leader, he could easily be mistook for a man in his thirty's. Aragorn was now over two hundred years old and the shadows of time where beginning to show on his face. His eyes no longer shone with tales of adventure and glee, but they were saddened by loss and old age. Faramir and Eowyn where long passed, along with most of his friends of the those times. He had not seen Legolas since the birth of his son. He had received word he was travelling with Gimili and did not know when he would return. Though his wife and children brought him great joy, Aragorn felt a burden on his heart, an uneasy feeling that something was left unfinished. He dare not trouble Arwen with such thoughts, the were only thoughts after all. The war of the ring had never left his mind, even now, so many years later. Aragorn sat in his throne overlooking the splendour of the kingdom of men that had been rebuilt under his rule. He felt his chest would bust with pride as he saw his son approach the gates of Gondor with his company of guards. Eldarion had gone to speak with Thranduil of the woodland realm, Thranduil had requested the presence of Aragorn, but due to his growing weakness Aragorn thought it time to send his son on his fist duty as an ambassador or Gondor. Throwing aside the grace expected of him Aragorn ran down the steps and threw his arms around his son. 'Eldarion! I have missed you' he exclaimed. Aragon pulled from the embrace and started to look his son up and down, raising his arms and turning him, shamelessly checking him for injury as if he were a small child. 'Father you embarrass me!' Laughed Eldarion, half jesting 'You act although I have returned from battle rather than a council with an old friend' Aragorn laughed, not knowing how to respond to his son, Eldarion's wit had been sharper than his own since he learned to speak. People often joked that if Eldarion was sent to war with only his words he would still return victorious. Aragorn decided the was no sense challenging his son, especially as he was right, Aragorn was protective of him and maybe he should not be so. 'Come my son, tell me everything of your travels, I want to hear it all!' Aragorn led Eldarion to the hall and the sat at the great oak table. Aragorn leaned in waiting, 'Honestly father, there is not much to tell! maybe you should send me on some more interesting charges if you require interesting stories when I return!' Aragorn laughed 'There was once a time son, you would have lept out of your seat to go and see the elves of the woodland realm!' 'I know father, and I was very pleased to see Thranduil but...' 'but what Eldarion?' 'I feel I'm restless father, I cant quite describe it, something in me yearns for battle and adventure, I know that is wrong as you and your kin fought so long so that we may grow up in peace, I want to fight' Aragorn pondered his sons words for a while, he knew all too well the feeling Eldarion described, The burning in his heart, the thirst for the sound of swords meeting in battle, the rush of nerves and fear and renown flashing in a blur. 'I know what you speak of Eldarion' He finally replied 'you are right though you are blessed to grow up in peace, I do not know if my heart could bear seeing you ride to war and I pray that day never comes' Eldarion felt heavy at his fathers words, he now feared to tell him the news from Thranduil. The was silence between them, this was unusual of Eldarion and Aragorn knew it. 'What has Thranduil spoken of?' Asked Aragorn, his voice now concerned. Eldarion now felt uncomfortable 'A scout from Thranduil kingdom has seem smoke rising from the east, Thranduil fears a dark army may be grouping and plotting against the elves' 'a dark army!' Exclaimed Aragorn, 'those days are long passed' 'they thought so too father, but they fear some servants of morgoth still live and are residing in Mordor still, not strong enough to attack yet but left to themselves may one day be a threat'. Aragorn was shocked, but part of him knew this, he was almost relived to know the feelings he had been having where not just madness. 'father?' Eldarion asked. 'Yes son?' 'father, Thranduil is sending a company to Mordor gather information, to see there numbers and who is leading them ... I wish to go with the elves' 'NO!' Exclaimed Aragorn. Eldarion was taken back by his response, He had rarely heard Aragorn raise his voice 'Father! I wish to honour the alliances of elves and men, I wish to honour Gondor! and you! and mother and Celuthien!'. Aragorn held his head in in hands knowing the choice was not his to make. He raised his head to look at his son and for the first time did not see a child stood before him but a man, a prince, a warrior. Aragorn knew Eldarion would go with his blessing or not, he reasoned with himself that he was not going to fight, it was a simple scouting mission, and he would be with a company of elves. 'Alright, take ten soldiers with you, when will you leave?' A grin broke out on Eldarion's face. 'Thank you father!' he exclaimed 'I will leave in three days' Aragorn and Eldarion sat at the oak table and talked well in to the night. Aragorn told stories of the ring and hobbits. Eldarion recounted stories of his youth and they laughed and joked together and were merry in eatchothers company. Arwen was saddened but proud of her son's decision she passed to him the noble standard she had made for his father, for him to bear on his journey. Aragorn longed to accompany Eldarion but he feared to leave his people with no king should ill befall him. 'I will go with him father' Aragorn did not know how long he had been pondering when the soft voice broke his thoughts. He looked up from his throne to see he oldest child, though she looked younger than her brother. Celuthien stood as tall as him, an almost spooky resemblance of her mother. Her skin was so pale, her hair as dark as night but streaked with silver mimicking stars glistening in the sky. Her eyes a deep endless blue, holding wisdom far beyond her years. She wore on her finger Galadriel's ring, though it now held no power, it had been left to Arwen when Galadriel had sailed from the havens. She was a skilled healer but her delicate hands had yet to hold a weapon on any kind. When growing up Eldarion had taken interest in sword fighting and archery where as Celuthien had poured over old books and spent her time learning remedies and potions of old. She was not denied chance to learn skills of battle, Aragon had encouraged it, but when she showed no interest he saw no reason for her to peruse such things as the times they lived in where quiet. He looked at his daughter, it always brought him a chuckle when he compared her to his son. Eldarion was rugged and rough, loud and obnoxious at times, attracting attention where ever her went, he would talk and laugh with everyone he met, not content to leave a room without the last word being his. Celuthien was light footed, quiet and refined, she rarely spoke out of turn and was easily embarrassed if attention was drawn to her. Though there personalities as different as the elements he loved them both equally, more than he could ever hope to express. Her request to go with Eldarion was out of character indeed. Aragorn longed to scream No! but was intrigued. 'why would you go with him my love?' he asked concerned, 'I fear for him father, if he is injured I could help' This warmed Aragorn heart and he smiled 'And my love what if you are inured, distracting your brother from his task, would you not put him at greater risk?' Celuthien looked down, now feeling foolish for her request to go. Aragorn pulled her into an embrace 'Eldarion will be fine, he his a strong price, there will come a time when your skills are needed Celuthien, but it is not this time' Celuthien smiled. She bowed her head to her father and left the room. The nights came and went and Eldarion left on his task, Arwen, Aragorn and Celuthien stood and the great gates to see him go, as soon as he was out of sight Arwen shed a tear, she quickly wiped it but Aragorn had already seen. 'Do not weep Arwen he will be home soon' he whispered to her. 'I feel I spent an age waiting for you to return Estel, and now must I spend this one waiting and worrying for my son?' Aragorn couldn't help but smile 'I'm afraid so Arwen how ever take comfort that I did in fact always return to you' Arwen beamed at him and laughed. 'Arwen' said Aragorn now more sternly. 'call a council of advisor's, we must discuss the evil growing in the east' Arwen's face became sombre and she nodded. The next morning Arwen was sat with Aragon eating and discussing the events of the past days, when a guard burst through the door. 'King Aragorn!' he exclaimed. 'The prince of Mirkwood approaches!' Aragorn almost fell off his chair. 'Legolas?! He exclaimed 'Where is he?' 'He it just approaching the gate my lord' Aragorn and Arwen moved quickly to the window. Sure enough a white horse was approaching alone with one rider, A golden haired woodland elf. 'Oh what joy!' Aragorn could not contain himself 'It has been a lifetime of man since we last met' Arwen was amused by Aragorn's happiness, for a second, Aragorn appeared a young man again as he ran down the steps to greet his friend. Legolas's feet had barely touched the floor from dismounting his horse when Aragorn grabbed him around the waist and lifted him as though he weighed nothing. Aragorn cheered and laughed jumping up and down as though Legolas had returned from the dead. When Arwen caught up with her husband she found him and Legolas embracing each other laughing loudly, no one would had guessed it had been a century since they last met. Arwen was filled with joy at seeing them both happy and well together. 'Legolas you have not aged a day!' joked Aragorn ruffling Legolas's hair as if he were a child. Legolas mockingly batted the kings hand away 'Shame I cant say the same for you!' he responded. 'Legolas!' Arwen greeted him when she saw a gap in their musings. 'My lady you are as beautiful as the day I left!' Legolas kissed Arwen's hand respectfully but she pulled it away and embraced him laughing. 'where is Gimili?' questioned Aragorn suddenly 'Is he alright?' 'Better than alright!' Legolas rolled his eyes 'He has returned to his people for a time, as he is to become a father!' 'What?! Gimili?!' Shouted Aragorn a mix of joy and confusion. 'He took a wife when we last visited the mountains, but this is a story for another time' Legolas shook his head signalling there was too much to tell all at once. 'Well you do have allot to tell us don't you! I wish I had known, I would have attended the wedding! We all would!' Aragorn now looked bewildered, almost hurt he wasn't invited 'Don't fret Aragorn, it was all very quick,Only myself and two others attended, like I said a long tale that I am much to tired to tell right now' As the words sank in Aragorn realised he did not know how long Legolas had been riding and fell foolish for not offering him food and rest. 'Melonin, forgive me! I will have chambers made up for you and food prepared' 'Thank you Melonin' he bowed his head to Aragorn 'My lady' then to Arwen before following one of The guards to his room. Aragorn pulled his wife close to him and kissed her 'this is a good sign indeed!' That evening Aragorn and Arwen sat at the head of the oak table, officers, chief guardsmen and chief advisor's joined them round the table to discuss what Thranduil had reported in the east. Legolas joined them sitting next to the king. 'Where is Celuthien?' asked Arwen when everyone was seated. People exchanged looks but no one answered. 'I'm here' came a soft voice, soft as it was, it startled most of the men at the table. Aragorn obviously used to it bowed his head and pointed her to a seat next to Legolas. Legolas felt as if all breath had left him. He had not seen her since she was a small child, now she towered before him a perfect image of womanhood. He had herd rumours of her beauty from his travels, the elven daughter of a mortal and the light of hope that shone from her. Legolas averted his gaze, and hoped no one had noticed his stare. 'My apologies Legolas, This is my daughter, Celuthien I forget it has been so long. Celuthien, this is Legolas whom I have spoken of often' beamed Aragon, so proud to introduce his treasure to his old friend. Celuthien bowed her head 'My father has told me many stories of you, Prince of Mirkwood, for the longest time I accused him of exaggerating. Your skill with a bow sounds more of fairy tale than fact' Legolas smirked, he had no doubt Aragorn had exaggerated the stories. Legolas wished to respond but found himself unable. Feeling foolish he just bowed his head and winked. This made Celuthien blush. Arwen giggled, reminding Legolas where he was. Aragorn cleared his throte and called the meeting to order. He told everyone what Thranduil had reported and that Eldarion had gone with a company of men and elves to see for himself what was happening in Mordor. The mend discussed and argued the possibilities, That the shadow was returning, or that they were nearly orcs from gone by days settling there. 'Until Eldarion returns with news I want nothing left to chance' said Aragorn 'I want our boarders protected and an army ready to leave should we need it' the room fell still. Then Arwen spoke 'Estel you speak as it you expect war' 'I do not expect it Arwen, but I do not want Gondor caught off guard if something were to happen, send word of this to all our allies, tell them to be on guard and to report anything they know' the men all nodded and the meeting was adjourned. Celuthien went outside to the gardens and sat next to the river. She pondered what was said in the meeting she would not show it but she was afraid, afraid for her brother and what was to come. Like her mother she had a keen sense of foresight and sometimes had dreams that told of things to come. She closed her eyes and thought of her brother, she scanned Middle earth with her minds eye looking for him. She found him, surrounded by elves and men marching proudly over the misty mountains. The men laughing and singing, sharing tales, the elves were quiet and alert scanning the surroundings. Celuthien breathed a sigh of relief, he was alright. She closed her eyes again scanning the lands, she looked to Mordor and saw the smoke and shadow her father spoke of, she tried but could not see past it, she could not see what lay behind the dark cloak that surrounded those parts. She concentrated hard, she saw a flicker of flame and heard uttering in a language she didn't understand, she felt a cold chill consume her and the words grew louder, she understood them this time 'the age of men will fall!' the voice bellowed. Celuthien felt as though the voice was yelling from inside her own head, she clutched her temples wishing it to stop, but it went on 'The time of peace is over, too long have we waited to take what is ours, too long have we hid in shadow while men mock us with tales of victory, we shall rise, so comes the age of the orcs!' Pain flooded Celuthien, she had received preminitions before but not like this. Her vision was filled with fire and she saw the outline of a man in black, a shadow, one she believed was long gone from this world. It was Sauron. He outstretched his hand to her and spoke in black tongue. The pain was unbearable, a glass shattering scream left her lips as she forced her eyes open. 'Celuthien!' she herd a voice behind her but she was too weak to turn to it. She fell to her knee's shaking, Legolas caught her as she fell limp into him. 'Celuthien!' he panicked. He touched her forehead, she was as hot as fire, so much he quickly retracted his hand. He lifted her with ease and carried her to the healing rooms. 'Help please!' he shouted as he lay her on one of the beds. 'Celuthien!' a healer exclaimed 'What happened?!' he shouted accusingly at Legolas. 'I don't know! fetch her mother please! quickly!' another healer nodded and left the room. 'She is burning up, get me cold water now' the healer demanded. Legolas ran to the tap and filled a basin and brought it back. The healer placed a cold cloth on Celuthien's head as Arwen burst through the door, her eyes a mix of panic and concern. 'What happened?!' She demanded, not even making eye contact with Legolas, looking only at her child. Arwen began whispering elvish words under her breath and she lay her hands on Celuthien. Legolas told her what he saw, just Celuthien screaming and falling to the ground,and the truth that he had just brought her straight hear. Aragon burst in, his face filled with not only concern, but rage. This took Legolas back, 'Someone tell me what happened now!' he said. Legolas began to repeat the story, but paused when he realised Aragorn's hand was hovering over the hilt of his sword. 'Aragorn, do not look at me so accusingly' Legolas warned. Aragorn lessened his stance and glanced at his wife who was tending to Celuthien. He sighed 'forgive me Melonin, I would never accuse you of anything, I was taken with fear for a moment' Legolas lay his hand on Aragorn's shoulder. 'Its alright, I'm sure answers will come soon enough' Aragorn knelt at his daughters bedside and took her hand. 'I don't understand Arwen, she has never been ill, nor has Eldarion' 'I fear this is darker than mortal illness Estel' Arwen replied, her voice pained. 'She is not in pain, I feel she just needs rest, she will wake when she is ready' Aragorn and Legolas sighed at Arwen's words. The all sat at her bedside, waiting her to wake. Hours passed in silence. Then 'Ada?' came a soft voice. Everyone stood up. 'I am here my love' Aragorn replied 'Do you need anything?'Celuthien did not reply straight away, her breathing sounded laboured. 'Ada I am afraid' tears began rolling from her eyes as the memories of what she saw flooded back. Aragon dove to her side practically barging Legolas out of the way. He took her hand and wiped her face 'Do not be afraid, I am with you, Tell us what happened please' 'I saw the shadow' she whimpered. 'I saw Sauron in Mordor, he spoke to me, in my head, he told me the age of men will fall and he hurt me' Aragorns face drained of colour. He looked to his wife who's hands were clasped to her mouth. 'The shadow in the east is ... Sauron?' Aragorn questioned 'How can this be?' no one answered, no one had an answer. Sauron was destroyed with the ring, or so they thought. But his spirit had endured once before, had it endured again? No one doubted Celuthien's vision, they all looked to each other silently sharing the same thoughts. Aragorn called another meeting and told of what Celuthien had seen, 'Sauron can do nothing!' an advisor shouted 'Without the ring he has no power!' the men at the table cheered in agreement, Arwen stood up 'There are no rings of power now, yes Sauron cannot raise the armies he once did, but we do not have the defences we once did either, I fear Sauron still holds old alliances with the orcs that are left, his armies will be small compared to the old times but we do not have the resources of the old times either. The wizards and all the good magic of the lands is long gone, The great Elves, Galadriel, Elrond and Celeborn have long sailed, I fear we are defenceless.' The room was silent before Aragon spoke 'It is true the magic in the world is gone, but not the good my love. Yes we do not have the strength of the old times but there is new strength in the united middle earth, we shall all be allies against once cause, even if Sauron has ten thousand orcs it is not enough to claim these lands' The men cheered and clapped, Arwen smiled, finding comfort in her husbands words. Legolas did not attend the meeting, he stayed in the healing rooms with Celuthien. She was gaining strength quickly, Legolas found himself intrigued by her company. 'Legolas I wish to walk outside, will you escort me?' 'Are you sure my lady? I fear the wrath of your mother if it should make you worse?' Legolas joked. 'My mother need not know' Celuthien laughed 'besides I would have thought it my father you should fear' Legolas grinned 'your father? no! A king he may be but he is no match for myself! Arwen on the other hand...' Celuthien laughed hard, the thought of Legolas a highly skilled prince of the woodland being fearful of her gentle mother was very amusing. Celuthien was born long after the times her mother had wielded a sword, she had never seen her raise her voice or hand to anyone. Aragorn had told her tales of her mothers renown in the old times but she found them hard to believe. She knew her mother only as the noble graceful elf she had grown up with. Legolas helped Celuthien from the bed, she clung to his arm as he guided her to the gardens. The night was falling and the stars were just becoming visible in the sky. Celuthien looked up longingly, the air was still and quiet as it always was in these times. The tree's barely moved, the only sound was the trickle of water in the river close by. Celuthien looked to Legolas to find he was not looking at the stars too, but at her. For the fist time she saw his eyes clearly, full of time and wisdom. She had never wondered how old he was until now. Much older than her obviously but how much? a thousand years? two thousand? she was about to ask when Legolas spoke first 'I feel I have never beheld such beauty' he said. Celuthien was taken back, she looked to the floor to try to hide her blush. Legolas stroked her face 'Please don't look away' she looked back and him with a weak smile 'I don't think my father would approve of you speaking like this Legolas' Legolas retracted his hand 'why should I not complement his daughter?' he protested. 'Your eyes say more than complements, Prince' Celuthien thought reminding him of his status might de-tare him. 'Prince indeed!' said Legolas 'Is this prince not worthy a princess?' Legolas looked hurt. 'You are a prince of another age Legolas, You went to war with my father, do you not think it would be an insult to your friendship?' Legolas stepped closer to her and took bother her hands. She felt slightly intimidated, she had only seen him usually stood with her father, witch made him appear small in stature, but now he stood so close she realised how brad his chest was, his arms too bigger than she thought. 'You parents know better than most the hardships of love, they will understand' he whispered. 'What of your father, Thranduil, he will think ill of it...' Celuthien began to protest, but Legolas pressed his finger to her lips. They both stood silently, the only movement was Celuthien's chest shakily rising and falling. She stirred at him, a fine prince he was, the moonlight bouncing from his golden hair his eyes now so clear and honest she felt she could see straight to his thoughts. He stepped closer again, their bodies now touching, she felt a spark of excitement course through her. A cool wind ensnared them as if willing them closer. He wrapped his arms around her, their lips almost touching, his breath made her hair stand on end. Celuthien could stand the teasing no longer, she kissed him softly. The excitement exploded inside her, she wrapped her arms around his waist, Her gripped her tightly, kissing her harder. Any thoughts of shadow or darkness were gone, all that mattered in the world was them. Legolas pulled away, breathing heavily they stirred at each other, Legolas scooped her into his arms and lay her on the grass. He kneeled over her in awe of her beauty, he ran his hands over the delicate curves of her dress,kissing her chest and neck. Celuthien shuddered and whimpered, every touch was electric. 'I could never of dreamed to behold such a treasure' Legolas whispered into her neck. He kissed her again hard, there hands exploring every inch of each others bodies. She unbuttoned his shirt, exposing his chest, perfectly formed as if carved from stone she ran her fingers through the dents of his muscles. Legolas groaned he hands ventured to the front of her dress and began to undo it, whispering to her as his hands fumbled. Her dress fell open exposing her milk white breasts, Legolas leaned back to view her in her full glory. She looked like a goddess. Her dark hair spread on the grass like a halo, Her eyes fixated on only him, eagerly awaiting what he would do next, her smile bright enough to melt him, her neckline gracefully flowing, guiding his eyes down to her breasts, perfectly round, rising and falling slowly, her pink nipples stood erect, her flat stomach quivering an echo of her heart beat. Legolas briefly wondered how long he could get away with just looking at her, he had seen many things in his long years but nothing like this. She sat up and kissed him softly. 'I'm afraid I should get back' she said. Legolas snapped back as if he had been dreaming, thoughts filled his head, what if someone had seen them? Celuthien was concerned Aragorn would be insulted at the thought of him courting her, He would certainly be insulted if one of the guards had seen them together in this manner. Legolas felt a wash of shame come over him. She was the daughter of the king, his friend. 'Celuthien, I'm sorry, I don't know what came over me' he panicked. Celuthien smiled 'Don't worry, no one saw us' she whispered 'and please don't be sorry ... I feel very ... safe with you Legolas' Legolas smiled weakly and kissed her cheek while buttoning his shirt. Legolas carried her back to the healing rooms before retiring himself to bed. Legolas lay smiling to himself, the image of her lay the the grass imprinted on his mind. He awoke that morning to the sound of raised voices, he lept up reaching for his sword, straining his ears to distinguish the voices. It was Aragorn '...so you think it proper of a princess of Gondor to be rolling around in the gardens, half clad with an elf twenty times your age!' A sickly feeling rose in Legolas's stomach. Someone had seen them, and Aragorn knew. Guilt and shame rose in him and he felt dizzy, the voices were coming closer to his room. 'Father please listen!' Celuthien was crying. This pained Legolas more, what had he done? She was young and impressionable, had he taken advantage? She had questioned if it was right, and told him Aragorn would not be pleased. Legolas's hands shook, maybe he deserved what was coming. 'Estel! Lower your sword!' there was another voice, it was Arwen. There was a clink of metal hitting the floor, he had always obeyed Arwen with out question. 'Father please! I'm sorry!' Cried Celuthien. The door flew open, Legolas instinctively raised his sword. Aragorn stood, his face red with rage. Celuthien hung off his arm trying in vain to hold him back. Arwen stood to the back of them, looking more pained than angry. Aragorn lunged forward snatching the sword from Legolas with ease, as Legolas did not have the heart to fight him. Aragorn pushed Legolas to the ground, straddling him, with the blade pressed to Legolas's throte.'No!' Cried Celuthien 'Ada, Please!' she begged. Celuthien looked to Arwen for help, but she said nothing, maybe she knew Aragorn would not hurt Legolas, maybe she wanted him to. 'How dare you!' Bellowed Aragorn 'What 'friend' are you to show up after all this time and disrespect me! To come into my home and take advantage of my daughter in such a vile way! She is but a child to you!' Aragorn pressed the sword harder to Legolas's neck. Legolas began to think he truly might kill him. 'He didn't Ada! I swear! Please don't hurt him!' Tears flooded from Celuthien's eyes. 'Speak!' Bellowed Aragorn. 'I...I..' Stumbled Legolas. 'Ada! Stop! screamed Celuthien. 'Estel, Enough!' Arwen said finally. The room fell silent but Aragorn didn't move. Legolas squirmed slightly trying to ease the pressure on his chest.'Ada... I love him.' Celuthien whispered. Aragorns hand shook, the sword quivering at Legolas's neck, his eyes brimmed with tears. '...and I love her, Aragorn' Legolas spoke, his voice cracked ans shaky 'I would give anything to protect her, please believe me, I never meant you disrespect, my actions were inappropriate, yes, but they were out of love, not something sinister as you accuse me'. Aragorn turned to Celuthien 'Is this the truth?' he asked in a lowered tone. 'Yes, Ada' Celuthien whispered. Aragorn's thoughts were whirling, on some level he knew he couldn't hurt Legolas, they had been friends for as long as he could remember, not to mention the political mess that would ensue, Thranduil would have armies at the gate before night fall. Still he felt betrayed, he found some satisfaction in the panic in Legolas's eyes. He thought of his and Arwens younger days, how he felt for her despite the world being against them, was this really so different? 'Estel, please' Arwens voice rang through him, she put her hand on his shoulder and he felt a swell of calm seep through himself. He lowered his sword, allowing Legolas to scramble to his feet. Aragorn rose but did not make eye contact with anyone in the room. 'Celuthien to your room, now' he whispered. 'Ada, I..' She began. 'Now' He repeated. Celuthien scanned the scene, she did not wish to leave but did not want to make this worse. Arwen took her by the arm 'It's alright now, come' her mother comforted, leading her from the room. Aragorn closed the door behind them. Legolas felt uneasy, being alone with Aragorn now. 'Aragorn, do you believe me?' he asked. 'Yes, Melonin' Aragorn replied, Legolas breathed a sigh of relief, knowing he was still considered a friend. 'Legolas, I love my daughter more than I could ever tell you, as does all this kingdom, if harm ever came to her, or my son I fear it would end me. I am growing old my friend, I suppose leaving this world knowing she is in your hands would be of some comfort' Talk of mortality made Legolas uneasy. 'Aragorn, I have acted shamefully, I should have spoken to you about my feeling for Celuthien, from when we were in the meeting and I first saw her, I feel I loved her then, I have never felt like this.' Aragorn smiled for the first time 'Yes you should have spoken to me, and saved me hearing it in whispers from the night guards' Legolas cringed to think how the guards had worded what they saw to Aragorn 'you should thank the Valar, Eldarion is away, I feel this would have ended more um... differently' Aragorn mocked. Legolas smiled, grateful Aragorn was now seeing his actions as foolishness rather than disrespect. 'Legolas, you and Celuthien have my blessing, but if receive word like that again I really will kill you' Legolas laughed, though he knew there was some truth in Aragorns words. 'I am blessed to have a friend such as you, Aragorn' Legolas smiled. 'Now go before I change my mind' Aragorn waved his hand in a mocking kingly fashion, pointing Legolas to the door. Legolas bowed his head and left. Aragorn sat in the room for the day pondering his time left in the world, and how the thought of Legolas being his son-in-law might not be so awful after all. The next days and weeks came and went, tensions over that morning faded and a sense of normality set in, except the fact that Eldarion had still not returned. Celuthien feared to look for him, in case Sauron should enter her thoughts again. Arwen busied herself reading and translating old books to take her mind off her son. Aragorn took time to catch up with Legolas and all he had seen in the past years. 'I will return to my father and see if he has any news of Eldarion' Legolas announced over dinner one evening. 'I don't think that is wise Legolas, shadows are moving in these lands, I fear for my son, but two missing princes would be sorrowful' Aragorn replied. 'I fear there is a missing King, Aragorn, When I arrived I sent word to my father that I was here and have not yet heard back' Legolas said sadly.'Maybe he went with the company?' Aragorn suggested. 'maybe' Legolas agreed. 'I will send scouts to the woodland realm and Lorian, to look for Thranduil and Eldarion, They may have taken refuge in Galadriel's old realm, their boarders are more protected than the woods' 'Maybe' Legolas agreed again. He tried not to show it but he knew something was wrong. The rain fell heavily that night, thunder and lightening crashed like Celuthien had never seen in her lifetime. Celuthien watched from her window, still hoping to see a glimpse of her brother returning. Legolas entered the room and wrapped his arms around her. 'Something's not right' she whispered to him. 'I feel it too' Legolas confided in her. A crash louder than all others rang through the castle. Legolas stood bolt upright. 'That was not thunder' he uttered. Aragorn and Arwen burst into the room, 'The city is being attacked!' Yelled Aragorn 'Celuthien go with your mother and hide. now!' 'I don't understand!' Celuthien protested 'Please my love go with your mother and hide, not with the towns people, too many know who you are, somewhere secret, Legolas I need you with me!'Legolas nodded and kissed Celuthien on her brow 'It will be alright' He said to her before following Aragorn from the room. Celuthien was shaking, she knew nothing of war, she had never been told to hide from anything. Arwen embraced her quickly and whispered to her 'Follow me and do as I do' Celuthien noticed Arwen had a long sword hung from her belt. This both terrified and comforted her, she had never seen her armed. Arwen took her by the hand and led her down a flight of stairs to her fathers study. Celuthien heard distant screams and battle cries coming from the city, she recalled what Sauron had said in her vision. 'Celuthien, this way!' Celuthien realised Arwen had turned one of the book cases revealing a secret stair case, she followed her mother, carefully closing the case behind her. At the bottom the were in a small, square stone room. Arwen sat on the floor and drew her sword, she placed it next to her and beckoned Celuthien to sit too. Arwen wrapped her arms around Celuthien and cradled her like she had when she was small. 'I will not let any harm come to you I promise my love' Arwen soothed, Celuthien wept, she had never been so scared. Her brother was missing and now Legolas and her Father had to to fight in their own kingdom. Hours passed, sounds of war seeped into the stone room. Arwen sang and uttered words of comfort to Celuthien to try to drown out the noises. Then came a more sickly noise than all before, The bookcase at the top of the stair creaked 'I found it!' an orc voice grunted. Celuthien shook with fear and clung tightly to her mother. She barely noticed Arwen was slipping Galadriel's ring from her finger onto her own. 'By the Valar' Arwen whispered 'If there is any magic left in this world, please let it come to me now' Arwen rose, sword in hand and stood protectively in front of her child. Two orcs appeared at the bottom on the steps 'Back!' Arwen yelled. 'Hey get down here!' one orc called up the stairs. 'We found the queen!, the king will pay a pretty price for this one back' The two orcs laughed. Then one caught sight of Celuthien hiding behind her mother. 'and who's this!' he exclaimed 'and the princess! well well, we have found the treasure havn't we?' The orcs laughed menacingly. 'Touch her and I will make you beg for death!' Arwen bellowed. The orc lunged at her, in one swift motion Arwen beheaded both of them. But now the book case was open, three more came. Arwen fought with great skill dodging and waving, countering the orcs blows, all the while ensuring none came within reach of Celuthien. More orcs poured in, Arwen glanced at Celuthien, growing fearful she could not hold them off. Just as she thought the horde was ending, a large orc entered, obviously a leader of some sort, much bigger than the others. Arwen raised her sword but the orc grabbed her arm before she could deliver the blow. He twisted her arm causing her to drop her weapon, she let out a pained cry as he twisted it again, reducing her to her knees. the orc laughed and cupped her face, throwing her into the wall. Then he moved towards Celuthien. 'No!' Arwen cried. She was too hurt to get up. The orc picked Celuthien up by the neck and pinned her against the wall, Celuthien wanted to be brave but tears rolled down her cheeks, she silently prayed for Legolas or her father to burst into the room. 'Don't cry' the orc mocked as he traced the lines of her tears with the blade in his hand. Celuthien hissed at the pain, but she didn't know what to do, she felt helpless. 'Put her down now!' Commanded Arwen. In a hopeless effort, Arwen raised her hand bearing Galadriel's ring and uttered words in elvish, calling on her mother and father to help her, though they had long sailed. The orc laughed mockingly, then something happened. The ring glowed brightly, the orc dropped Celuthien hard, to shield his eyes, the ring shone brighter and brighter, until the orc let out a scream as though it was burning him. Arwen saw her chance and reached for her sword, with what strength she had left she threw it, it span in the air, before connecting with the orc in the centre of his head. The orc toppled over and the light formed and elegant wisp that flew up the stairs and slammed the bookcase shut before returning to the ring. Arwen breathed a deep sigh and bowed her head 'Thank you' she whispered. Arwen dragged herself to Celuthien and threw her arms around her 'I'm so sorry' Arwen wept 'I failed you, I could not protect you' 'Mother! I am alive!' Celuthien protested 'I am so glad your alright I was so scared' 'As was I my love' Arwen said cradling her daughter again. They both lay in each others arms, the room was dark now, they were both injured and scared, but thankful to be alive. As morning broke the dreaded creek came from the book case again, Arwen forced herself to stand though she was sure her ribs were broken, she took up her sword again and held it ready. She was weak and broken but she would protect her daughter as long as she could breathe. Footsteps came down the stairs. To Arwens relief it was Aragorn, followed by Legolas 'Estel!' Arwen dropped her sword and collapsed into him. Legolas surveyed the room, noting at least ten dead orcs. Then he spotted Celuthien, unconscious he knelt next to her and lifted her head to his chest, inspecting the bloody gash on her face. Aragorn and Legolas were also bruised and bloody. 'How did they find you?' Aragorn questioned as he inspected his injured wife. 'I don't know' Arwen answered. 'lets get to the healing rooms' said Aragorn. Celuthien woke a few days later. 'Morning' Legolas beamed at her. Celuthien sat up confused 'What happened?' she asked. 'You hit your head' Answered Legolas 'well... an orc hit your head, Arwen told us' Celuthien remembered everything. She shuddered 'My mother! is she alright?''Yes' Legolas replied 'She was up and about with in a few hours' Celuthien sighed and looked around the healing rooms. They were filled with injured men, She caught sight of her mother and father at the other end of the room, surrounding another bed. 'Legolas why did the orcs attack, and who is in that bed?' Celuthien questioned. Legolas smiled, 'Come with me and see, it will answer both at once.' Celuthien got up and steadied herself against Legolas, as they approached her parents Arwen looked up 'Celuthien! I'm glad your awake' She said hugging her. Over Arwens shoulder she caught a glimpse of who was in the bed. 'Eldarion!' she exclaimed running to him. 'Sister!' Shouted Eldarion as they embraced. 'Are you hurt badly brother? can I help?' Celuthien asked concerned. 'I am fine sister, I am practically mended, just resting my aching bones as I am ordered' Eldarion laughed. Celuthien knew he was down playing his injury but she was too happy to see him. 'I hear you've been battling orcs with our mother!' Eldarion jested. Celuthien blushed, embarrassed to say she do not do very much 'battling'.'Eldarion, could you tell Celuthien what you told us yesterday?'Legolas probed. 'Ah yes, pull up a chair sis, get comfy' Eldarion joked. Aragorn laughed and offered his seat to Celuthien. Baffled his son was still making light of the situation despite having two broken legs. 'There we were on the edge of Mordor...' Eldarion waved his arms dramatically to illustrate his story. Everyone laughed, Celuthien had missed her brother terribly. 'twelve elves, ten men, and myself, creeping up the old steps of Barad Dur. we reached a good vantage point and saw some big ugly orcs, around two hundred of them, an even bigger uglier one was giving them some kind of pep talk. We herd they were planning to attack Gondor in two weeks, with an army of three thousand. We rode back fast with intentions of warning you, but we lost allot of time as the high pass was snowed in. Instead we split up and came back through different routes gathering men as we went. We brought armies from Rohan, the woodland even a few came from Lothlorien and Bree. Yet apparently the orcs were ahead of us because the member of our company sent here never made it. Luckily your armies were ready. The Rohirim arrived from the north just as the orcs were approaching the gates of Gondor, probably around the time you realised what was happening. Myself and the elves arrived from the west as the battle was raging into the night. Men from Bree and a few hundred from Lothlorien arrived in the early hours, basically just to clean up any still wriggling. All in all we gathered an army of almost six thousand witch is why I was gone so long. Oh! yes and we found Thranduil, he had come searching for us, but was also way laid by the mountain pass, one of our company found him in Rohan. Thranduil feared Ada would have his head if I didn't come back ha ha!' Eldarion laughed. 'So all is well for now, I have more news from Mordor but now is not the time, today is happy and victorious!' Everyone laughed again, Aragorn could not be prouder of his son. Legolas leaned and kissed Celuthien and she giggled contently. 'Aye! What's this then!' Eldarion exclaimed 'When I asked did I miss anything you all left this one out didn't you?!' Celuthien blushed. 'I'm serious!' Eldarion Shouted 'Isn't he like fourty thousand years older than you?! put her down you old bag!' Aragorn couldn't help but chuckle at Eldarion's choice of words but quickly covered it with a cough. 'Eldarion don't exaggerate!' Celuthien protested 'He is not so much older at all!' 'Children, I thought you had grown past this' Arwen intervened 'Eldarion, you should be happy for your sister and Legolas' Celuthien stuck her tongue out at Eldarion in a childish manner. 'Ada! Why is he still walking around!?' Eldarion jokingly pointed at Legolas. 'He very nearly wasn't son, don't worry' Aragorn winked. Eldarion assumed his father was humouring him until he caught a glimpse of Legolas's awkwardness, and he burst out laughing. 'Ada! what did you do?! Oh please tell me!' Eldarion was in fits of laughter. 'Eldarion it wasn't funny! stop it!' Celuthien jabbed him lightly on the arm. 'oh, I bet, It was' Eldarion said between gasps of air. If Legolas were not in the room Aragorn would have gladly shared the laugh with his son, however he was trying very hard to suppress it. 'Play nicely with your sister and I promise to tell you one day' Aragorn mocked. 'Alright, alright' Eldarion huffed. They all spent the day around Eldarion's bed laughing and joking, Aragorn and Arwen felt very blessed to have their family surround them.
Eldaroin got better over the coming weeks, he too grew to accept Legolas and Celuthien but was always on his guard, he had always been protective of her, just like his father. One night Legolas took Celuthien to the top of Minas Tirith and proposed to her. He gave her a beautiful ring, an heirloom of his kingdom, made from silver and starlight, containing bright white gems. Aragorn and Arwen were overjoyed and began planning a wedding immediately. The city rejoiced and the threat in the east was pushed to the back of their minds. One morning Celuthien was tending to the horses in the stables when she decided to go for a brief ride. Helmin had always been her horse, since he was a foal, he was brave, though it had to be said slightly lazy. 'Come on Helmin, Lets go explore!' Celuthien said as she attached his saddle. Helmin huffed and dragged his feet. 'We wont go far! Don't be so idol!' Celuthien giggled. Celuthien rode Helmin just outside the gates of the city to the edge of the big forest. 'Well where would you like to go mellonin?' she asked the horse playfully. The horse trotted a small circle then stopped to graze on the grass. 'No sense of adventure have you pet?' Celuthien giggled as she patted the horses neck. Suddenly something flew past Celuthiens face, startling Helmin. The horse bucked throwing Celuthien to the ground, she looked up to see three scruffy, unkempt men in front of her. 'Helmin! Go!' she shouted. The horse bolted back to the city. Celuthien knew Helmin returning alone would raise alarm. 'Get up!' one of the men grunted to her. Celuthien stood 'What do you want?' she asked sternly. 'Leverage' The wild man replied laughing. 'I just didn't think we would find it so easily, we know who you are' Celuthien grew fearful. The men all had long knives on their belts and she was unarmed. She cursed herself for wandering out of the city. 'Leverage for what?' Celuthien questioned. 'To get back what was taken from us! Men took our land and banished us to the woods!' the wild man said. 'You cannot blame my father for that!' Celuthien protested 'That was long before his time! If you need help building or growing food I'm sure he would give you aid!'. The men scoffed and laughed. 'Bind her!' The wild man shouted. The two other men grabbed her and thrust her arms roughly behind her back and tied them. The fist man then roughly grabbed her neck and thrust her against a tree. 'Now princess, lets say me and some friends needed to get into the city, unnoticed, could you tell us how we might do that?' he grunted. 'I could not' Celuthien lied. The wild man raised his hand and hit her hard across the face. 'Liar!' He bellowed. 'I am not!' Celuthien cried 'The only way in and out is the gate!' The man drew his knife from his belt and held it to her neck. 'Lie again and I'll cut you' He threatened. 'I'm not lying' Celuthien whimpered as a tear fell down her cheek. The man laughed and leaned in close to her. He raised his arm again and hit her with the butt of his knife. Celuthien let out a cry as blood trickled from her nose. 'Maybe she doesn't need to tell us' piped one of the other men. 'If the king knew we had her, he might come to terms easily' The man holding her pondered this. He scanned her up and down and an evil smile crept on his face. 'Such a shame, for something so pretty to be wasted' he mumbled. The man traced his knife down her neck to the front of her dress. He swiped down roughly cutting away the lace fastening the garment. Celuthien struggled but her dress fell away exposing her breasts. All the men laughed and gathered around. 'Get back! Me first!' The man warned the others. He turned back to Celuthien, he grabbed her breast harshly with his rough hand and pinned her to the tree with the weight of his body. Celuthien squirmed and cried but he was too strong. 'Shhh' The man said mockingly. He thrust his lips to hers, forcing his tongue into her mouth. His free hand grabbed her thigh hard and cocked it over his hip. The other men laughed and cheered. He pulled his hand from her breast and grabbed her other thigh holding both her legs off the ground. Celuthien bit down hard on his tongue. The man recoiled dropping her to the floor. Celuthien spat the blood and piece of tongue from her mouth. 'Stop!' she cried 'Please!' The man was furious. 'Little slut!' he spat, diving on top of her pinning her flat to the ground. 'Help! Please!' Celuthien screamed. The man thrust his knife at her, Celuthien moved but not quick enough, the knife cut deeply into the top of her arm before sticking in the ground. The man hit her hard again across her face, more blood dripped from her mouth, now a mix of hers and his. He thrust his hand up her dress and started clawing at her underwear. Celuthien screamed and kicked but couldn't get away. She closed her eyes tight praying for someone to help. There was a loud thud, and the weight lifted from her, she herd the sound of horses and men yelling. She opened her eyes to see Aragorn sat on top of the man, holding a sword to his neck, his eyes filled with rage. Soldiers of Gondor swarmed around her restraining the wildmen. Legolas appeared above her. He sat her up and untied her then threw his arms around her. 'Celuthien!' he sobbed. He removed his cloak and wrapped her in it, he looked her up and down noting the amount of blood and her tattered dress. His eyes filled with worry and concern. Celuthien collapsed onto his shoulder sobbing, so grateful he was there. 'Don't kill them!' Commanded Aragorn, he looked at his daughter, she was terrified and bloody 'these men deserve worse than death, take them to the dungeons, I'll decide what to do later' The soldiers nodded and bound the men to their horses and began falling back to the city. Aragorn knelt by Celuthien and took her into her arms. She was still sobbing and trembling violently. Aragorn's face was still red with rage but his eyes softened, now filled with sadness to see his child like this. 'Shhh' he soothed 'Its over now, where are you hurt my love?' Aragorn asked. Celuthien could not bring herself to answer. She moved the cloak revealing the deep wound on her arm. Aragorn winced 'We need to get you back quickly my treasure, so it can be seen to' Aragorn then also noticed her tattered dress, his hands shook with rage and fear. 'Did they...?' Aragorn began but couldn't find words. 'Aragorn!' Legolas interrupted his thought 'Celuthien can tell us when she is healed'. Aragorn nodded, The thought of the dirty, foul wild men laying hands on his daughter made him sick to his stomach. 'I'm so sorry we didn't come quicker' Aragorn bowed his head hiding his tearful eyes. 'You came Ada' Celuthien said between sobs. 'Legolas, take her on your horse, you ride faster than I, take her to her chambers, not the healing rooms, Arwen and I will see to her'. Legolas nodded understanding completely. He sat Celuthien on the horse with him and rode to the city with haste. When they arrived he carried her to her bed and lay her down. Celuthien was still shaking. Legolas threw open her wardrobe and found her a new dress. He undressed her quickly and helped her into the clean clothes. 'Hannon le' Celuthien smiled weakly. Legolas's heart ached. Aragorn entered the room minutes later carrying healing supplies. Celuthien sat on the edge of the bed while Aragorn cleaned her wounds. Eldaroin's voice erupted from behind the door making Celuthien jump slightly. 'I want their heads on spikes!' He bellowed 'and I want the spikes displayed on the front gate!'. 'Eldaroin, that is not your order to give son' came Arwens voice, soft and calming. 'Where is father!? Why didn't he gut them on the spot!' Eldaroin was still yelling as he burst into the room, closely followed by Arwen. Aragorn paused from cleaning Celuthiens arm to meet the gaze of his son. Eldaroin looked Celuthien up and down then turned to leave again, drawing his sword on his way out 'Right, back in a minute' he said sternly not turning back. 'Eldaroin!' Arwen protested. 'Let him go' Aragorn said. Aragorn met the gaze of a guard stood near the door and nodded him to follow Eldaroin. The guard hurried off after him. Arwen sighed and sat next to Celuthien. 'Oh my love what an awful thing to happen' she said, taking the cloth from her husband and took over cleaning Celuthiens arm. Tears began to fall from Celuthiens eyes again. 'Its alright, your safe now' Arwen comforted her. Aragorn and Arwen exchanged worried glances. Arwen put down the cloth and knelt in front of Celuthien taking both her hands. 'My love I know its hard, but you need to tell us, your father said your dress was ripped and torn, like they had cut it from you. The wild man, did he …. force himself on you?' Arwen asked delicately. Aragorn and Legolas winced at the question, but were glad someone asked it. Everyone looked to Celuthien awaiting an answer. Celuthien let out a sob and threw her arms around her mother. Arwen sat down cradling and rocking her, 'Shhh its alright, please my love' she said stroking Celuthiens hair. 'No' she sobbed. Everyone breathed a sigh of relief 'but... but he tried to' Celuthien continued 'They wanted to know another way into Gondor, they asked how could they get in unnoticed, I told them I didn't know' Celuthien trailed off sobbing again. Aragorn felt a pang of guilt that she had been targeted for information. 'He beat me' Celuthien spoke again between sobs 'They talked of using me as leverage to make you give them something, they tied me up and ripped my dress, he tried to...' Celuthien trailed off again. The room was hanging on her every word 'He tried to what?' Aragorn pressed sternly. Celuthien went on 'he ripped my dress and he …. kissed me, I tried not to, he forced his tongue in my mouth, so I bit it off, ….then'. 'What?!' exclaimed Aragorn and Legolas together. 'you bit his tongue off?' questioned Legolas, sounding less concerned now more impressed. 'oh … yes' Celuthien clarified ' a bit of it anyway, not all the blood was mine'. 'Well at least we know witch one did it' Legolas smiled, seeing the opportunity to lighten the mood 'the one with half a tongue' Celuthien face lit a little and she smiled slightly. 'then he pinned me down and tried to well... he put his hand up my dress but I kicked him, that's when he cut my arm, then you and the soldiers came' Celuthien wrapped up her story. 'You were very brave not to tell them the way into Gondor, Celuthien' Aragorn said 'When Helmin showed up without you bolting like the wind, a guard sent for me and Legolas and we left within minutes to look for you, I just wish we had been quicker'. 'I am grateful you came Ada, you saved me' Celuthien smiled. Aragorn stitched her arm as gently as he could. Legolas chatted to her and made jokes to distract her from the pain. It took a while but eventually all the blood was cleaned and Celuthien looked much better, despite a dark bruise under her eye and her slightly swollen cheek. 'That is the best I can do for now my love' Aragorn smiled apologetically at her. 'Hannon le Ada' she smiled back. 'Rest now, your mother will stay with you, me and Legolas are going to go and speak with the wildmen in the dungeons' Aragorn said stroking her face. 'Yes …. 'speak with them'' Said Legolas drawing his knife. Aragorn nodded, caressing his own sword. Aragorn and Legolas left. Arwen got comfortable in the chair next to the bed, and watched over Celuthien as she drifted to sleep. Aragorn and Legolas made a war path down the stone step toward the cells, they were greeted by Eldaroin arguing with a distraught looking guard that he should be allowed in. 'Adar!' he said when he saw them approach 'Adar let me go in!'. 'Alright but you do not do or say anything until I am finished with them' said Aragorn sternly. Eldaroin smiled, excited to see his father employ justice. Aragorn walked up and down the three agacent cells containing the men, scanning their faces, looking to recognise the one her saw holding down Celuthien. He stopped in front on the middle cell. 'This is the one' he announced, the guards unlocked the door and Aragorn, Legolas and Eldaroin entered. The guard closed the cell behind them and turned his back. Aragorn grabbed the man roughly around the neck and pinned him to the wall 'Show me your tongue!' He commanded. Aragorn squeezed the man throat and he opened his mouth revealing a black stub with almost half of it missing. Aragorn smirked, impressed his daughter had defended herself in such a way. Aragorn leant back and punched the man hard in the face, throwing all his weight behind it. There was a sickly sound of bones crunching as the man's head was crushed between Aragorn's fist and the stone behind him. 'What is your name!' Aragorn commanded. The man groaned in pain and spat the blood in his mouth on Aragorn's face. Eldaroin lunged forward but Legolas grabbed his arm. 'Gilrad' the man hissed. Aragorn leaned back and punched the man again. 'Why did you want a way into Gondor? And what do you want from me that you should think to use my child as leverage?' Aragorn spat. Gilrad laughed through blood stained teeth 'Sauron is rising, we wanted only to... persuade you what side of this war to be on, Saurons hand will find a way into your city, whether you permit it or not'. Arwen was right, Sauron had held his old alliances, not only the orcs but the wildmen too. Aragorn threw the man to the ground and kicked him hard in the ribs. 'How could you be so stupid to threaten a child of kings! Did Sauron himself suggest this? It is far too bold a move for an ill witted grunt of the forest to come up with!' He yelled. The man rolled on the floor holding his side where Aragorn struck him. Aragorn was not as strong as he once was, but could still deliver a harsh blow. The man began to cower and did not answer. 'Get up!' Aragorn bellowed. Gilrad did not move. Eldaroin approached him and grabbed him roughly by the arm. 'He said get up!' He enforced, dragging him to his feet. Legolas took Gilrad's other arm, the two of them holding him steady. 'Speak!' Aragorn yelled. Gilrad broke, intimidated by the three men, 'Sauron promised us land' he murdered 'If we could submit Gondor to fight for him... He suggested your family as leverage, we wanted a way in to get to the queen, and your son, he told us you would pledge you allegiance for their return'. Aragorn's blood boiled. His hands shook in anger. He threw another punch at Gilrad hitting him hard in the stomach. Gilrad's knees buckled but Legolas and Eldaroin held him up as he coughed and gasped for air. 'You disgusting excuse of a man! The wildmen and Sauron are not brave enough to fight so instead they target my wife and children?' Aragorn's tone was cold and chilling. He approached Gilrad and grabbed him roughly at the neck again 'And tell me! What were you going to do with Arwen and Celuthien then? When you had taken them back to your dark forest, awaiting me to come running, pledging my kingdom and its armies to fight for the enemy, what twisted thoughts did you have for them when they were bound and afraid?!' Aragorn's eyes were ablaze, fixed on Gilrad. A smirk flashed across Gilrad's face 'She's a pretty girl my lord' he said coldly mocking Aragorn 'I only wanted a taste'. Aragorn grabbed for his sword, but Eldaroin was faster, he dragged Gilrad to the ground and pinned him down, thrusting his own sword to Gilrad's neck. 'You will regret laying eyes on her!' Eldaroin yelled. Eldaroin wielded his sword above his head and brought it crashing down onto Gilrad's arm, severing it clean from his body. Gilrad let out a pained cry. Eldaroin raised his sword again but Aragorn grabbed his arm in the air 'Eldaroin, stop!' Aragorn said. Eldaroin looked at his father, his face splatted with blood. 'I think justice has been done' Aragorn whispered. Eldaroin got up. They left the cell, the guard locking it again, acting as if he had not seen the man inside missing an arm. 'Open this one!' Aragorn said pointing at the next cell, the guard obeyed. Aragorn looked down on the cowering wildman inside, he had obviously heard what went one next door. He gabbed him by the arm and dragged him out of the cell, to the front of the cell with Gilrad inside. Aragorn pressed the man's face against the bars and hissed into his ear 'This is what happens to men who threaten my family'. The man shook looking at Gilrad rolling on the floor moaning in pain, his severed arm lying to the side of him. 'If any of your people are seen within a league of Gondor again, I will bring open war to your forests, I will burn them to the ground, tell Sauron I will not be intimidated and Gondor will never fight for him!' with that Aragorn threw the man to the ground. 'Now go!' he bellowed. The man scrambled to his feet and ran towards the gates out of the city. He turned and looked his blood soaked son up and down 'Eldaroin, I told you not to do anything' Aragorn sighed. 'I'm sorry Ada, he made me angry' Eldaroin apologised. 'Its alright, lets get cleaned up before your mother sees' Aragorn ushered them up the stairs. The wildman died sometime in the night, Aragorn did not tell Arwen of the plans to kidnap her and Eldaroin, he thought there was no sense worrying her, he did however introduce a law that no member of his family should leave the gates without protection.
Celuthien recovered quickly, though it didn't stop everyone fussing over her, Legolas in particular. He was deeply saddened by what happened to her. One day over dinner he announced that he wanted Celuthien to come to the woodland realm with him, to tell Thranduil of their engagement. 'I do not feel safe you both travelling so far' Aragorn protested. 'Soldiers can accompany us, we could send word to my father to have elves meet us half way' Legolas suggested. 'I'll accompany them Ada' Eldaroin piped up. 'and leave us worrying for both our children?!' Aragorn answered. Eldaroin looked slightly offended 'Surely you would worry less for me Ada!' He scoffed. Aragorn sighed 'You are right Eldaroin, If I could trust anyone to protect your sister it would be you' He pondered for a second 'Alright then, but only if you take ten men with you, and Thranduil's men meet you at the boarder'. Celuthien and Legolas smiled, a rider was sent that night to take word to Thranduil. They left three days later travelling north with Eldaroin and the ten soldiers. The journey was uneventful, save one of two orcs that the men easily killed. A group of elf guards met them at the boarder as expected. Celuthien thanked her brother and said goodbye to him. Celuthien admired the tall sparkling trees as they entered Thranduil's kingdom, they came to a halt at a tall spiralling staircase leading high into the trees. They dismounted their horses as Thranduil floated down the steps to greet them. 'Legolas!' he beamed 'My son it has been so long' he embraced his son before turning to Celuthien. 'and Celuthien the fair, Princess of Gondor, you are most welcome'. Celuthien bowed her head to him respectfully. 'Come! You need food and I'm sure we have lots to catch up on' Thranduil led them to his hall were elves were busy laying food for them, they sat down and began eating. 'Father, have you met Celuthien before now?' Legolas questioned. 'Not since you were a small elfling I don't think' Thranduil replied 'Nor you brother until he visited a few months ago, but family of Elessar are always welcome in these parts, my people owe your father a great debt for his aid in the great war'. 'Father we have come to bring you news' Legolas blurted. 'I see, news of what my son?' Thranduil replied looking from Legolas to Celuthien. 'Father, Celuthien and I are to be married next month' Legolas announced. Thranduil choked slightly on the wine he was drinking 'Married?' he exclaimed. 'Yes Ada, we are very much in love, I would like your blessing' Legolas said. 'You have my blessing son by all means, but this is very sudden, I must ask what does king Elessar think of this?' Thranduil was stunned. 'My father is happy for us, as is my mother' Celuthien replied. Thranduil sat back in his seat and thought. 'A fine match it is indeed' He finally said, a smile creeping onto his face 'The prince of Mirkwood to marry the princess of Gondor, what a joyful time!' he laughed. Legolas grinned and stood to embrace his father. 'How honoured I will be to call you daughter!' Thranduil laughed embracing Celuthien. 'With the shadow growing in the east it is times like this we need to bring light to our people!, bring us more wine!' Thranduil shouted to one of the elves. The three of them drank and laughed into the evening, Thranduil overjoyed with the news. As the hour grew late, Thranduil retired himself to bed, kissing Legolas and Celuthien on their brows and singing merrily up the staircase as he went. Legolas was grinning happily at his fathers approval 'That went well!' he chuckled to Celuthien. 'Better than my father' Celuthien agreed. 'We didn't exactly 'tell' your father' Legolas joked kissing her cheek. They both laughed, the time Aragorn had pinned Legolas to the ground and swore to kill him, now nothing more than a family joke, brought up mainly by Eldaroin to embarrass him when they had company. 'Come with me, I want to show you something' Legolas whispered to her. Celuthien followed him, he lead her deeper into the forest, she was baffled how her remembered his way around the twists and turns of the trees. They came to another staircase, he lead her to the top, to a balcony with a huge bed, scattered with green leaves. From the balcony Celuthien could see the tops of all the other trees, and far out into the kingdom. 'Its beautiful' she whispered. 'You are beautiful' Legolas whispered back, he kissed her deeply. Celuthien felt limp in his arms. 'I love you' he whispered. 'I love you too' she replied. He cupped her face with his hand and kissed her again. Her hands wandered to his chest, caressing his strong form. She shuddered with excitement as he pulled closer to her, the kiss intensifying. He began exploring the curves of her body, kissing and nibbling her neck as his fingers followed the lines of her hips. He broke from the kiss and scooped her into his arms. Her breathing was slow and shaky in anticipation. He lay her on the bed and stared deep into her eyes. His fingers wandered down her neck to the front on her dress. He began unlacing the garment, his eyes never leaving hers, scanning for approval. The dress fell away revealing her perfect breasts as he had only seen once before. He lent back and looked at her as he had that night in Gondor. He moved in and kissed her nipple, circling it with his tongue while gently cupping the other breast in his hand. Celuthien let out a soft purr and lay her hand on the back of his head, ushering him to continue. Legolas moved to her other breast and did the same, kissing and massaging the nipple with his tongue. 'Legolas' Celuthien murmured. Legolas did not hear, too indulged in the fantasy before him. 'Legolas' She repeated, more sternly. Legolas sat up quickly, concerned he had gone too far. 'My love forgive me, I long for you so much...' He began but Celuthien cut him off. 'It's not that Legolas, I long for you too' she blushed 'Its just, I've um, never done anything like …. this before.' She averted her gaze slightly embarrassed. Legolas felt a pang of guilt, remembering how very young she was. He had not been with many women himself, save a few shot lived romances in his younger years, they were century's ago, long before Aragorn was even born, never mind Celuthien. Legolas shook these thoughts from his head realising a sad look in Celuthiens eye. 'I'm sorry my treasure, its my fault' He mused. 'Legolas I want to... be with you, fully' Celuthien went on 'I just don't want you to be disappointed'. 'How could I ever be disappointed?' Legolas asked shocked. 'I have heard the way men speak of me' Celuthien smiled weakly 'As though I am some siren, a mythical beauty capable of fulfilling their fantasy's, when in fact I am yet to know the touch of a man' Legolas embraced her. 'My love I assure you I could never be disappointed' he said kissing her brow. Their eyes met and he kissed her again, passionately pulling her close, his hands wandering over her exposed chest. 'I'm nervous' she whispered as he pulled away. 'Shhh' He soothed 'Trust me' he responded. He stood from the bed and took her hands, guiding her to stand with him. He gently pulled the sleeves of her dress causing the garment to fall to the ground. She stood a vision of womanhood with just a small pair of silk underwear covering her most intimate area. He removed his own shirt before embracing her and kissing her again. The sensation on her naked breasts on his bare chest sent a rush of pleasure through her. He lay her softly on the bed again, he stayed stood and unbuckled his belt letting his trousers fall, exposing himself completely to her. She let out a small gasp, having never seen a naked man. She felt a burning between her thighs as she stared at his manhood, she felt aroused and scared at the same time. 'Legolas I … I don't know what to ….' Celuthien began. 'Shhh' He soothed again 'Its alright, just relax, I want to pleasure you' He kissed her hard and lay on top of her. She shuddered as she felt his member growing hard against her leg. 'I want to show you how much I love you' Legolas whispered. She gasped as his hand lightly ran over her silk panties. 'I need you to do something' Legolas went on. '...alright' Celuthien replied nervously. 'If you like something and you want me to carry on will you say 'yes' and if I do something you do not like or you are uncomfortable will you just say 'no' and I will stop' Legolas looked at her seriously for a second. 'alright' Celuthien replied again now more nervous and excited than ever. Legolas smiled and continued kissing and biting her neck. 'Yes' Celuthien whispered. Legolas got a rush of arousal from her approval. He moved down and began tracing her chest with his tongue. Sucking her nipples into his mouth one at a time, gently nibbling them with his teeth. 'Yes' she whimpered. The rush of arousal shot through him, his cock swelling bigger again. Legolas sat up. He gently parted her lags and sat between them. He caressed her delicate slit through her panties. His arousal peaked when he discovered how damp the silk was with her juices. He watched her as he stroked, her chest rising and falling, her back arching slightly every time his fingers brushed her clit. His cock throbbed for release, he ignored it as best he could. He slipped the panties down her legs, revealing her hidden treasure. Legolas groaned in arousal at the sight of it. He carefully ran his fingers over her entrance. She let in a sharp gasp. Legolas stopped, eagerly awaiting her permission to continue. 'Yes' She finally whispered. Legolas rubbed circles around her small hole with his finger, he was rewarded with an electric jolt that shot through her body, she arched her back, thrusting her crotch towards him. 'Yes' she said again enthusiastically. Legolas slid his finger along her slit, searching for her button. Celuthien's body shook when his fingers found the small bump. He put his other arm across her stomach preventing her from moving and began playing with her tiny bean, flicking and massaging it. Celuthien felt pleasure like she never had before, something building inside her, she moaned and purred gasping for air, 'Yes! Yes! Yes!' she shouted. Legolas moved in with his tongue, licking and gently sucking her wetness. She had never felt so aroused, the pleasure was so much, part of her wanted to say no, and beg Legolas to stop. She grasped at the pillows above her, her body ridged with the intense pleasure, her feet pressed hard on the bed trying to raise her hips higher but Legolas's arm was like a steel bar against her, holding her tight to his face. Celuthien let out a scream as an orgasm rocked though her, her body spasmed in delight, her dripping slit convulsed and trembled. Legolas pulled away to watch her enjoy what he had done. Her body was glistened with sweat, her eyes were teary and her breathing uneven. He ran his fingers over her thigh, her body jolted again, every touch was now electric to her. Legolas smiled, he was far from finished. 'are you alright?' he whispered. Celuthien nodded weakly. Legolas admired her quivering body, he stroked her again slipping his finger into her wet cunt. He massaged her hole awaiting her approval. 'Yes' she gasped. He slid his finger into her entrance. Her body stiffened at the intrusion and she drew a sharp breath and held it. 'Relax' he soothed 'breathe'. She let out a quivering breath and he began moving his finger in and out of her. She moaned and squirmed in ecstasy. 'Yes' she breathed. Legolas inserted another finger, stretching her tight entrance. She hissed slightly and Legolas stopped, he waited again. 'Yes' she said finally. Legolas moved his fingerers skilfully, twisting and bending them inside her, massaging her walls. With his other hand he found her clit again and started rubbing it in time with the movements of his fingers inside her. Celuthien's eyes rolled back and her hips bucked with pleasure. Legolas inserted another finger into her and trusted hard and deep. Celuthien let out a squeal 'Yes!' she moaned, parting her legs as much as she could, inviting him to do more. Legolas trusted his fingers hard and fast into her, rubbing her clit roughly. Celuthien's vision grew blurry, she though she might pass out from the intensity. 'Harder!' Celuthien moaned. Legolas's eyes flew open at her input, her repositioned him self, pushing her knees towards her chest and holding them, now with a better angle he thrust his fingers into her again, pushing as deep and hard as he could, stretching her wide. He pounded in and out, sweat now gathering on his brow. 'Oh Legolas!' Celuthien screamed as another orgasm took her. She shook and trembled, her cunt tightening around his fingers. Legolas could wait no longer, his cock was throbbing with arousal. He withdrew his fingers, keeping Celuthien in the same position, holding her knees to her chest, he brought the tip of his length to her entrance. Celuthien whimpered in anticipation, he was so big. He rubbed the head of his cock up and down her slit, Celuthien shuddered 'Yes' she whispered. Legolas groaned as he slid his tip into her tight hole. Celuthien gasped and gritted her teeth as he filled her. Legolas rubbed her clit and he pushed himself further in. 'N...' Celuthien shuddered. Legolas stopped instantly. Celuthien breathed deeply and closed her eyes 'Yes' she corrected. Legolas eased in and out of her, going a little deeper each time, he bent over leaning on his hands either side of her face, so he could look into her eyes. 'are you alright?' he asked again. 'yes' she replied breathlessly. He kissed her passionately thrusting a little harder, Celuthien wrapped her arms around his back, holding him tightly. Legolas scooped his arms around her and leaned back, so they were now both sat upright, him kneeling and her on top of him. Legolas groaned as she slid fully onto him. They kissed passionately Legolas still gently bouncing her. Legolas lay her down again, his length now filling her, every movement was ecstasy for them both. Legolas began thrusting harder, pumping in and out of her, every thrust causing a moan of pleasure to leave Celuthien. 'I love you' He whispered to her. 'I love you!' she moaned back. Legolas sat up straight and pulled Celuthien to him with her thighs, forcing himself deep inside. Legolas trembled with pleasure as Celuthiens back arched, pushing them closer together. He gripped her thighs tight and began thrusting fast and hard into her. Celuthien was now screaming with pleasure, moaning loudly 'Oh Legolas!' she cried 'Yes! Yes!' Legolas was dripping with sweat, Celuthiens screams pushing him closer to orgasm. 'Don't Stop!' Celuthien begged, Legolas gripped her roughly and moaned, he leaned forward again so they were now face to face. Celuthien wrapped her legs around Legolas's back giving him better leverage. He began thrusting again, harder and faster than before. Celuthiens eyes rolled back again, the pleasure consuming her. She felt another orgasm coming, building inside her, her body tensed, she let out a scream as it washed over her, much bigger than the last two. Her body shook violently, her hips bucked and her walls tightened around Legolas's cock. The feeling of her quivering beneath him was too much, orgasm washed over Legolas too, he thrust one last time hard and deep as he shot his hot seed. His body twitched and spasmed. Celuthien's walls, gasping and convulsing, milked the orgasm out out him. Legolas pulled relaxed and collapsed next to her. Both of them trembling and drenched in sweat. 'I love you' Celuthien said again. 'I love you' Legolas responded. They embraced each other and slept until late the next day. Legolas awoke to see Celuthien leaning on the edge of the balcony, wearing a thin lace dress, the sunlight shining through it reviling a glimpse of her skin underneath. Her dark hair dancing in the breeze, she looked deep in thought. Legolas dressed himself quietly and crept behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist, planting a soft kiss on her neck. Celuthien giggled contently and nuzzled her head into him. They stood for a moment overlooking Mirkwood before Celuthien spoke, 'Legolas, I was thinking about what happened to me in Gondor, with the wildmen' she sighed. Legolas gripped her tightly, the sight of her that day was a memory he would sooner forget. 'They can't hurt you here my love, these boarders are well protected, wildmen have not set foot here for years' he comforted. 'Legolas, I think of what would have happened if you and my father had not come, I was unarmed but even if I had have been I would not have known what to do, the same as when the orcs attacked my mother in Gondor I was of no help. I cannot go my whole life relying on people to protect me, I want to learn to fight' Celuthien looked sadly at Legolas. He thought of a moment, then replied 'I agree I would feel comforted knowing you could defend yourself should a time come, but I am saddened to think you should have too'. He pulled her into a close embrace. 'I should like to learn to use a bow if you would teach me?' Celuthien said. 'My love bows are for defence at distance, I do not think that would aid you, I could teach you to wield a sword? Or a knife?' Legolas suggested. Celuthien looked saddened, she felt drawn to a bow. Legolas noticed, 'Or both? Or all?' He corrected, though he saw no sense in her learning to shoot he could not deny her anything. Celuthien smiled broadly 'I would like that' she replied.
A couple of days later Legolas took Celuthien into the forest and set up targets for her. 'Right lets see how you do on your own' Legolas smiled, handing her his bow and one arrow. 'Hold it like this' Legolas said positioning her arm outstretched and placing the arrow correctly. Celuthien drew a breath and held it as she stretched the arrow back. 'Now look straight down the line of your arrow and hold it steady, then release it' he instructed. Celuthien did so, but her hand was shaky, she released the arrow and it flew, but missed the target completely. Legolas laughed a little. Celuthien blushed. 'Its alright my love! That was good! Let me help a bit' Legolas smiled feeling guilty for laughing. He took another arrow and stood close behind her, so they were touching. He positioned her arm straight again, this time keeping his arm with hers as he affixed the arrow, 'Do not hold it so tightly, relax your shoulder' He instructed. Celuthien did so, this steadied the bow. 'Now hold the arrow to your eye line, and bring your elbow back high' he whispered. Celuthien did so but the bow still quivered slightly. 'Do not hold your breath, just breathe slowly, and do not release it until you are ready, do not rush' Legolas stepped back slightly giving her room. Celuthien breathed slowly, concentrating on her mark, she took a few moments to steady her aim. Then she let go, the arrow flew, hitting the target slightly off centre. 'I did it!' Celuthien squealed. Legolas jogged to the target to inspect her shot. 'Not bad at all!' he said retrieving his arrows. 'Watch this' Legolas winked. Legolas attached his quiver of arrows to his back and set up four targets horizontally along a tree branch. He playfully budged Celuthien out of the way and took the bow from her. In a blur he reached back took an arrow and shot, again and again, four times taking no more than a second per shot. Celuthien gasped and laughed, she jogged to the target to inspect his shot as he did. She discovered he had been shooting two arrows at a time, and each target had one arrow perfectly in the centre and one just above it. 'Well that's just showing off!' she exclaimed. 'Is my lady impressed?' Legolas laughed. 'Very!' she nodded. They spent the day in the forest, Legolas coaching her, Celuthien improved greatly, by the end she could hit the target every time, not always centre, but reliably close. Over the coming weeks Legolas trained her to fight with a sword and a knife, she was no warrior but he grew confidant that she could defend herself if ever needed. The time came to return to Gondor for the wedding. Thranduil was ecstatic, on the morning of them leaving Legolas had never seen him so happy. When they were getting ready to mount their horses Thranduil rushed over and swept Celuthien into his arms, spinning her round. 'Oh this will be a day to remember! My son! Marrying the beautiful lady of Gondor! How blessed I am!' Thranduil laughed, dancing with Celuthien though there was no music. Celuthien was laughing hard, she shot Legolas a mock-confused look, at his fathers behaviour. 'Ada, put her down!' Legolas laughed. Thranduil obeyed still dancing and humming to his horse. Legolas shrugged his shoulders to Celuthien, signalling he hadn't the slightest idea what was going on. Celuthien was laughing so much she steadied herself against her horse. Around one hundred elves escorted them, met half way by Eldaroin and around fifty Gondor soldiers, Celuthien felt silly having such a large escort, but reminded herself that king Thranduil was with them, along with two princes and herself, then a royal escort did not seem so foolish. They arrived in Gondor after along ride. Greeted by her parents and a crowd of towns people. They embraced and laughed, it had been the longest Celuthien had not seen her mother and father. Aragorn bowed respectfully to king Thranduil, but Thranduil did not bow back, instead he threw his arms around Aragorn still so overjoyed at the occasion.
The wedding came quickly, elves and men crowded the top of Minas Tirith as they had for Aragorn and Arwen. Celuthien wore a long, flowing, white gown, her hair embroidered with green and white jewels. Legolas wore a waistcoat bearing the crest of his kingdom, the crowed cheered as the were married under the white tree of Gondor. That evening there was a party throughout the kingdom, everyone celebrated. Aragorn, Thranduil and Eldaroin drank together and sang, Celuthien and Legolas danced all evening together as Arwen played the harp. It was perfect.
Thranduil stayed in Gondor for the next few days getting to know his new family, until he regretfully announced he had to return. 'You have all been so wonderful to me and my son' Thranduil bowed to them 'I feel I must request one thing before I go'. 'What is that?' Aragorn asked. 'We are training new armies of swordsmen in my realm, your son Eldaroin is a skilled leader, and he has been a helpful advisor to me lately, I wonder if he might stay with me a season to help ready my forces' Thranduil asked. 'That decision is is own' Aragorn answered turning to Eldaroin. Eldaroin grinned at the opportunity 'I would be honoured!' he said excitedly. The next day Eldaroin and Thranduil mounted their horses to leave with their escort. Aragorn, Arwen, Legolas and Celuthien gathered to say their goodbyes. 'Wait!' Arwen called as they were about to go 'Thranduil, please watch over my son' she whispered. 'I shall look after your prince as I expect you to look after mine' Thranduil smiled at her, with that they rode on and Arwen shed a tear. 'oh my love, you cannot weep every time our children venture outside' Aragorn smiled, wiping her face. 'I don't think I shall ever get used to it' she smiled back at him. With Eldaroin away, Legolas took his place in Aragorn's council meetings. One morning Aragorn had called a meeting to discuss Gondors defence strategies should Sauron attack again. Aragorn, Arwen and Legolas sat we five other advisers speaking of numbers of men and faster ways to contact allies should they need aid, when suddenly the doors creaked open and Celuthien entered the meeting room. 'Celuthien?' Said Aragorn sounding concerned. Legolas span round in his seat to look at her. Celuthien walked towards them, Arwen and Aragorn stood up, noticing she seemed uneasy on her feet. 'Celuthien, what is wrong?' Aragorn asked, now slightly alarmed. 'Forgive me Ada, I just... I just really need mother' She panted, her breathing laboured. Arwen walked quickly to her side, putting her arm around her. 'Celuthien sit down' Said Legolas offering his seat to her. 'We will continue this meeting later, my apologies' Aragorn announced to the men around the table. They all got up and left, some mumbling words of comfort to the king or his distressed looking child. Arwen touched Celuthiens head with the back of her hand. 'You have a fever! And you seem shaky.' She said confused. 'You've never fell ill before, has something happened? Have you eaten something unusual?' Quizzed Aragorn. 'No Ada' she replied 'I woke up like this, I feel so weak and sickly'. Arwen was as confused as Aragorn, neither of their children had even been ill, they had thanked the Valar that they had inherited enough elven blood to not be troubled with such things. Legolas looked on, full of concern for his wife, but not knowing what to do. 'Take her to her room' Arwen said 'She needs rest, I will fetch a healer and meet you, I am not wise in mortal illnesses, if that is indeed what this is.' Legolas and Aragorn nodded in agreement. Aragorn picked Celuthien up, carrying her as he had not done for a few decades. Celuthien didn't protest, she felt too dizzy to even hold her head up, she rested it of her fathers chest as he carried her up the stairs to her chambers. He lay her on the soft bed, Legolas sat next to her and took her hand, gently stroking it as a reminder he was with her. Arwen soon entered with an elderly woman healer. The woman bowed to Aragorn and Legolas before speaking to Celuthien. 'My name is Sevanhir, my lady, can you tell me how long you have felt like this?' Arwen knelt next to the head of the bed and gently caressed Celuthiens hair, she whispered elven words of healing while Sevanhir spoke, Celuthien found this comforting. 'A few hours' Celuthien replied. 'My lady, could you unfasten your dress so I might feel your heartbeat?' Sevanhir asked. Celuthien raised a hand but strength failed her. 'Shhh' Arwen soothed moving Celuthiens hand back to her side 'I'll do it'. Arwen unfastened the dress, just far enough that the top of her breasts were exposed. Celuthien flushed with embarrassment, being undressed in such a way when both her her parents and Legolas were in the room. Arwen caught a glimpse of her thoughts 'We are here to help you my love, its alright' She soothed. Sevanhir placed a hand on Celuthiens chest, she moved her lips counting the beats to herself. 'A little slow' Sevanhir finally said. 'What does that mean?' piped Legolas. 'It could mean a lot of things, her breathing is laboured, I'll mix a remedy for that before I continue' Sevanhir opened her bag and began mixing bottles together. Legolas didn't much like her answer. Arwen leaned over to kiss Celuthien on her brow, as she did her hand travelled across Celuthiens stomach. As she did she froze. She looked down at her hand. She sensed something but didn't quite believe herself. 'Arwen what is is?' Legolas had noticed her behaviour. 'Arwen?' Aragorn echoed. 'I think I know what's wrong' Arwen whispered. 'You do?' Aragorn said surprised. 'Estel, could you and Legolas wait outside so I could speak with Celuthien and Sevanhir?' Aragorn was taken back, he wanted to stay with his daughter, surely nothing was secret from him? Then, he trusted his wife with everything. 'Its alright Estel, please, it wont be long' Arwen said as she stroked his face. 'Legolas lets go' Aragorn sighed. Legolas followed, confused, but trusting of Arwen. When they had left Sevanhir turned to Arwen. 'What is it my lady?' she asked. Arwen was looking at Celuthien, 'Celuthien my love, I think you are …. with child' the healer let out a squeal of delight. Celuthien pondered this, it was certainly possible, she had just never expected it to happen so fast. 'Then surely something is wrong mother, I should not feel like this should I?' she sobbed. Arwen smiled weakly and petted her daughters hair 'I felt something similar when carrying Eldaroin' she recalled, 'I too feared something was wrong, after he was born the healer thought maybe it was that, as Eldaroin did not inherit my elven healing abilities as you did, my body gave him mine while I carried him, to protect him, unfortunately leaving me to suffer the symptoms of childbearing as a mortal'. Celuthien thought hard 'Yes, but my child can't be mortal? Myself and Legolas are elven?' Arwen smiled 'You are half mortal, though you don't look it, but that may not be what this means, maybe with the shadow returning to these lands, your body felt a need to protect this child' Celuthiens head was spinning, not just from illness. The thought of a child inside her filled her with joy, but also sadness for the times it would be born into. 'Mother, I wish to see Legolas now … Will you tell father?' Arwen grinned. 'I would love to, I'll send him in' Arwen and Sevanhir left. They were bombarded with questions as soon as the door opened. 'How is she?' 'Do you know what's wrong?' 'Can we go in?' Legolas and Aragorn asked. Arwen opened her mouth and they both fell silent 'Legolas, she wishes to see you, Estel you are to stay here with me' This caused further confusion. Aragorn was clearly frustrated 'Arwen if something is wrong with my child I deserve to know!' He hissed. Arwens eyes hardened at his outburst. 'Do as your daughter has requested, Estel' Arwen scorned. Aragorn lessened his stance, feeling shameful for speaking to Arwen in such a way. 'Forgive me Arwen' He whispered. She smiled and stroked his face, then looked to Legolas and beckoned him to enter the room. Legolas went and knelt next to the top of the bed, he cupped Celuthiens hand gently and kissed it. 'My love tell me what's wrong and end my torture? It worries me so that you have called me here alone' Said Legolas, his eyes filled with comfort and concern. 'Legolas I...' she began, still coming to terms with it herself. Legolas braced himself awaiting her words. 'Mother thinks I maybe …..' She stumbled. She took a deep breath and calmed herself. She closed her eyes searching for the strength to tell him, then it washed over her, she was not breaking some foul news to Legolas. She was telling him something wonderful, a grin broke out across her face and she looked him straight in the eyes 'Legolas, you are going to be a father' She said merrily. Legolas stared blankly for a second, like the words were still making their way into his head. Then suddenly his grin mirrored Celuthiens 'We're having a child?' he gasped. 'My mother sensed it, she thinks that is why I am ill' Celuthien explained. Legolas's grin flinched at the reminder that she was unwell, but he could not hide his joy. He pulled Celuthien into a strong embrace. 'My love I thought you could never make me happier, but this is something I never dared dream of. Our family will be perfect!' Celuthien laughed, 'They will be loved indeed!' Legolas and Celuthien were ecstatic. A knock came from the door. 'Come in!' laughed Celuthien. Aragorn and Arwen re-entered, Aragorn now looking cheerful, having obviously been told the news. He threw his arms around Legolas laughing 'Who would have thought! You! The father of my grandchild?!' Aragorn joked. 'Who would have thought, you! The grandfather of my child!?' Legolas responded grinning. Aragorn then embraced Celuthien. 'My love I am so happy for you!' He beamed 'If you or Legolas need anything, just ask alright?' 'Thank you Ada' She replied kissing him on the cheek. 'Celuthien, you will have to go to a healer first thing tomorrow, a healer who specialises in pregnancy, so you can be properly checked. Also they may be able to help with the sickness' Arwen lectured. 'I will mother, Thank you' she smiled. 'Celuthien I do my best to care for you everyday, but while you carry this child I vow to be anywhere you need me, You are not to lift a finger until this child is born!' Legolas said happily. 'Legolas don't be foolish!' Celuthien laughed stroking his face 'I cannot sit still a full year!' she gasped. 'Then just sit as still as you are able' Legolas winked. Aragorn smiled, pleased by Legolas's enthusiasm.
