Elf Friend
Disclaimer: Nothing of the LotR world belongs to me, naturally. And I'm certainly no J.R.R. Tolkien.
Author's Note: Once again, in desperate times, I just started writing and what I wrote turned into a Legolas and Gimli fic, a short reflection on their friendship as they prepare to sail to the Undying Lands. It's not slash, as L/G is one ship that I find rather repelling (no offense to any shippers, it's just not my thing) and I hope you enjoy.
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He had put his trust in the Elf that rode at his back, had borne unspeakable dangers with the golden-haired creature ever at his side. And when, with Elessar's death, Legolas grew weary of Middle Earth and his heart's longings turned towards the Sea, Gimli went with him.
They rode out together, as in the old days of battle, but their backs were not burned with armour or weaponry. Gimli's axe was left at his dwelling, beside his helm and shield. Their horse was lighter for the loss and moved swiftly from Gondor towards the waters that beckoned to the Elf.
"I must leave these lands, Gimli. The water's call grows stronger each moment. I have remained here in Arda for the time for Aragorn, but his passing has wrought in me great sorrow. I fear that I must leave for the Undying Lands or my heart will break with grief for the Nine. Already my people have gone forth, while I have lingered. I can dwell here no more."
"Middle Earth will mourn to lose such an Elf, Legolas, as we have already lost the beauty of Lady Galadriel. Already, the woods have dimmed in her absence. I fear to think what shall happen in yours."
"If only you were of the Valar, Master Dwarf. Then you should join me."
"And I should see Lady Galadriel again and my mind should be refreshed of her beauty."
"But why should you not come? Are you not Elf-Friend? Have you not been favoured by the Lady of Lorien? You have walked in our lands and lived of our food and known our secret places! Come, Gimli son of Gloin! Do not let the waters part our friendship! We shall ride out together once more and sail for the Undying Lands!"
The two companions stood at the shore, watching as the ship to carry them across the Great Sea drew ever nearer. Legolas Greenleaf turned to the dwarf at his side. "Are you prepared to leave this world, my friend?"
"Most certainly. I have no regrets. I have lived and fought many great battles, but now my heart longs strangely for the peace of the Blessed Realm and for the company of the elves." He frowned suddenly. "Do you believe that we will be seeing the Masters Ringbearers?"
"I do hope so. It has been many years since I have lain eyes on Frodo of the Nine Fingers."
"Legolas..." He hesitated. "Could we not find Queen Evenstar and..."
"Nay," he interrupted abruptly, looking away. "Her choice was made many years ago. She cannot follow her people in this path. Her demise lies in Arda." Neither spoke for a time, both watching as the ship came into the bay. At last, Legolas gave a sigh. "Come, Gimli, our time has come." His eyes were shining as he spoke.
"Will you miss these lands, Legolas?"
"I cannot speak truthfully of that, friend. But I will miss the adventure."
"Aye," the dwarf smiled, "that was the best part of it all."
END