Disclaimers: I don't own any of the characters, places, names, etc even if I wished. J.R.R Tolkien and Peter Jackson caught it all! ;)
A/N: Thank you everyone for reading, reviewing and following. It means a lot to point out flaws and strong points. Special thanks to Phoenixwrites101, Rainbow-33, amyunder for R & R old FF and new. It means a lot. Indeed this story needs editing and a Beta. I am working to find one. Until then I will do some minor editing on my own. And I hope I will find a Beta soon. Thank you MariaJulietBituin for the Beta suggestions :) Thank you riyanignailanda, size2to12 and the guest as well.
~ Act Two: Imladris ~
Rivendell, 29 August 3018
Their destination was close, the elves of Mirkwood reached the Gates of the Elven town in the Misty Mountains on the eastern edge of Eriador. Pine-trees grew on the top of the valley, and the autumn colors were warm as ever. A small cluster of elegant Elven Buildings sitting in a Shangri-la like Valley below towering cliffs and snow capped mountains. Legolas closed his eyes breathing the free and fresh air around him. As a Wooden Elf he had missed being surrounding by Nature, without the darkness. His home had changed a lot through the centuries. It was not longer as green and alive as it was once. Most of the forest had died and darkness overtook it. Creatures like Orcs, Goblins and spiders were growing slowly in most parts. Rivendell was different. Protected by the one of the three rings once given by Sauron and from Lord Elrond elven magic, it was safe grounds.
They stopped at the Gates of Rivendell to great the Elves and announce their arrival. The prince of Mirkwood was a regular guest of Elrond Peredhel, specially the decades he spent with Aragorn. Yet he had a close friendship with Elladan, Elrohir and Arwen since he was an elfin. Elladan, Elrohir and he caused trouble and pranks all over the house of Elrond. Few times even Arwen was dragged into their mess. After his mother was perished and Mirkwood draw into darker days, everything changed. Like his father, Legolas spent his time in Mirkwood protecting the borders. Traveling was a luxury, he could not possess.
Elladan and Elrohir rode often far afield with the Rangers of the North, forgetting never their mother's torment in the dens of the orcs. It seemed that both realms Rivendell and Mirkwood, lost their ladies from orcs attack. Painful memories for the house of Elrond and the Halls of Elvenking. And each dealt with their grieves on their own terms. Yet each time they slay orc, it brought some relief to both sides.
Legolas eyes brightened as he noted a familiar face. His party and he, had brought their horses to find food and rest inside the stables. Now as he was passing through the main gates aiming to find Elrond. Their paths crossed. The Lord of Rivendell always held a special place in Legolas heart. It was not his kind and wise nature that impressed Legolas. It was the father substantial that always brought joy and sorrow to his soul. The deep relationship he shared with his children. Even if he lost his wife in such a way (similar to his father), he never forgot to be there for his children. Truth be told, he was offering his aid to all middle-earth. He approached problems, differently from his father. He surely didn't lock himself into his halls and acted as a selfish Leader. Thranduil copped with a different darkness nonetheless.
"I was hoping to see you sooner. You left Mirkwood almost two months ago. It never took you longer than a month for your arrival. What kept you busy?" Lord Elrond asked him, after he embraced Legolas. Action the Elvenking avoided, after his wife's death.
"We encountered intrusions in our borders. We had to keep the borders safe, until the Captain of the King's Guard and his men arrived. We took the Old Forest Road, believing we would reach Rivendell sooner. However we were attacked plenty of times. It slowed our journey." Legolas offered the details of their journey from Mirkwood to Rivendell.
Elrond cast a troubled glance against him. "The old Forest Road, you say!" there was a small pause "No-one dared travel though it for centuries. Evil grows there that never sleeps."
Legolas acknowledged his mistake, explaining his mind was set to reach Rivendell on time. He recalled the dwarves following the same route "The road is not as forgotten as you think Lord Elrond. We came upon a group of dwarves from Erebor. They were attacked by orcs and we aided them from afar. They should be arriving shortly." Legolas said as a faint smile showed on his face.
"Durin's Folk?" he quizzed "It's been a while since we had any business with dwarves" Elrond spaced out for a few moments fathom the reason behind their visit. "I doubt it was your inaccuracy. You foresaw they would take the Old Forest Road to Reach Rivendell." he read Legolas actions "You cleared the passage for save travel."
Elrond and Aragorn were the only one who really knew Legolas. Not the warrior or the Prince, the person he really was. Even if he shared some of Thranduil's flaws. Legolas hid good and understanding inside him. It was not often shown. He hale a warrior in the foulness of his strength. Royalty and well mannered in his actions. An Ego gifted by his father and confident as a Wooden Elf. Yet he was more than that. He stood solid to those he called trusted friends and aided them with whatever cost.
Elrond words fed his ego momentarily, but he did not comment about that any further. He traveled to Rivendell to share the news with Lord Elrond. Yet that part could wait. The Lord of Rivendell suggested he should clean up, fill his stomach and rest. They would discuss the serious matters in his studying chamber around evening. Legolas agreed and bowed slightly before he stepped away. He took his time to clean and wear a cleaner attire. Later on he dined with Arwen sharing the news of his long journey from Mirkwood to Rivendell. The twins were patrolling the borders making sure their land kept save.
Awarthrie took a deep breath as they step in the forest of Rivendell, she deeply breathed in every way that it is possible to expand: in lungs, in brain in soul. In the forest there was a sense of kinship with the flora, of an ancient soul that stretched into everything that lived. It was there under the nascent rays of a sun born to rise each day that she felt alive. 'Lies!' How could an elven realm be so colorful? How could it stretched her emotions in every way possible. Her eyes were lost in awe as Glóin's party walked further into the woods. There were no words to describe the western valley of the Misty Mountains. That's exactly what she was scared of, losing herself in a fine beauty as Imladris.
"Lassy, will you follow. We have to reach Rivendell before night falls." Gimli said as he paced faster through the land of Rivendell. He also could not deny the beautiful scenery. However he enjoyed the dark and dry caves of Erebor better. "You swore you would not be tempted by anything Elfish" he mocked her.
Kili's daughter turned her attention over to Gimli, and it was the harder task she ever did. She acted indifferent, but he gazed at her surroundings from the edge of her eyes. "I was only observing the new land, Gimli." she defended herself. "Nothing can compare with Erebor's inner beauty and you know it!" she lied.
"Nice try, Lass!" he caught her lie. "You words were convincing enough, but your gaze gave you away."
Awarthrie ignored his words and cleverly changed the subject. "I cannot deny that Imladris is a sight for sore eyes. It would be impossible to live here nonetheless. Specially, cycled by all the Elves." she said following Gimli through the main route towards Elrond's house.
Gimli gazed at her upon his shoulder "You forget that Elfish blood runs through your veins. Eventually you will be at peace with it." he gamed her. Those words could send her range to another level.
She outrun Gimli and cut his way pushing him back. "I told you never to speak about that." she hissed pushing him once more "Damn it! You know, how much it upsets me Gimli. Especially now, with all the Elves around us. I would prefer you would not spat such nonsense."
The dwarf smirked at her reaction "Fair enough, Lassy! You know me better, I would never reveal your dying secret with pointing traitors." He tapped her back softly "Only If I have something to gain!" he mocked her wider.
Awarthrie rolled her eyes at his words and calmed down. Gimli could easily raise her temper, if he mentioned few subjects that were still taboo for her. Her elfish bloodline and her mother. Were two forbidden matters. Suddenly she looked in front of her. And they had reached the Gates of Rivendell. It was now their turn to place their greetings and the favor to meet with Lord Elrond.
Rivendell Elves were standing close to the Gates. Some were guards and some simply walking through. She even noted few elves that seemed to be from Mirkwood. Their colors and attires gave them away. The sun had already set, but still those elves were shining. She sighed and rested her hand against her axes. Honestly, she had nothing against Rivendell Elves. But Mirkwood was another story. After they announced themselves. One of the guards ensured them to bring them and met with Lord Elrond. The party of dwarves followed while trying not to be offensive against the elves.
The orange gold stretched far and wide fading to darker shades. The colour of fire hearths and tangerines. Soon the reflection of the night and the promise of the setting sun velvet through the valley and the sun was rested once more. In that welcome amber glow the time Mirkwood Prince was called upon Lord Elrond to define the reason for his visit. That Gollum escaped the King's Halls and it was their fault. He outlined that the orcs increased in numbers. Elrond thanked and advised him to remain in Rivendell a bit longer. Maybe his appearance would be needed. Elrond knowledge about the existence of the ring was null. Frodo, Aragorn and Gandalf had not arrived in Rivendell. Yet something dark rose and soon he had to answer.
Their discussion reached the end, after a guard notified Lord of Rivendell that more guests arrived. As Legolas foretold him, the party of dwarves had reached Rivendell. Elrond requested to speak and welcome them. The guard left and went to guide the dwarves back to Elrond study's room. Legolas bowed, politely taking his leave. The last thing he needed was to cross paths with the dwarves. He excused himself and opened the door stepping out.
Slower thoughts occupied her mind as Awarthrie followed behind the guard and taking in every detail of the inner architecture of Rivendell. Those moments when with open eyes her brain became as a perfect empty horizon. She felt the soothing breeze absorbed in the music of Elves, letting the gentle energy of nature wash in. She closed her eyes and breathed deeply, securing the memory of something so pure and peaceful. She almost forgot, all the little things. Her heart for a second felt light and free. She was wrong. Elven towns could not be described with words. Specially Imladris, a sight for sore eyes it was. Maybe she could find peace here.
Lost in the alluring moment, Awarthrie ignored the guard who had paused aside and gestured them to enter the study chamber. Suddenly, the door was opened and she stepped forward. Brown eyes met blue, and the peace and quiet shuddered in million pieces. Her brown eyes burned as her thoughts found a deadly end. She glared openly at the Ellon who was standing tall in front of her. Dressed in green and brown garb, with leather stripes and armbands revealing he was an Mirkwood Elf. Ignoring to get into any details, her grip grasped against her axes and was ready to pull and threat the 'Glittering bastard'.
Legolas was taken by surprise, as the short being in front of him was glaring at him. He narrowed his eyes, confusion and annoyance showed on his fair face. He recognized the group of dwarves, however the one glaring deadly at him puzzled him. She was a female, taller than any dwarf he had ever seen. Her figure seemed slender. And even if she was dirty and weary, her skin was fair. She did not look like a dwarf or a human. She surely acted worse than them. But she could not be a dwarf. His features changed to serious one, when he spotted her ready to attack. He was unarmed, he had left his bow and long blades into his room.
Before any action was taken by the Ellon, Gimli grabbed and pulled back Awarthrie clearing the path for Legolas to pass. His judgement fast and wise, as he ignored the short woman and by-passed the dwarves. Unexpectedly, he identified the last of the dwarves, as Gloin. Decades ago, Tauriel and he locked him with the rest of his company inside the Mirkwood hock. A foolish act, he would admit. He greeted Glóin with a light bow and walked away mindful. The aggressive act of their female companion and the past events, bothered Legolas. He strolled away with his mind wheeling one thought after the other.
Glóin returned the greeting, avoiding any verbal contact. Truth be told, he wasn't fond of Elves, specially Mirkwood ones. But he would never place an attack. And he was sure no one from his folk would. At least not without a reason. He watched at Awarthrie worried and even questioned his decision to drag her with them. Maybe it was too early for her to spend time with the elves. He never thought they would cross paths with Mirkwood elves and the prince of Mirkwood. Bad time to reach Rivendell.
Awarthrie struggled while Gimli pushed her inside the chamber and warned her once more they were guest's in the house of Lord Elrond. She would share her range with Gimli, but a light cough got their attention. The matter was dropped as Gimli and she noted Lord Elrond. Gimli removed his arms and freed her. And Awarthrie straightened her body and lowered her gaze. The Lord smiled at them as Glóin walked in front of them and bowed greeting the Elf.
The master of the house was an elf-friend, on of those who once welcomed them in his house and aided them. When Glóin followed Thorin and Bilbo to their quest to Lonely Mountain. Elrond had been well-aware of the affairs of dwarves and Elves. The scene that unfolded in front of him, did not seem strange. He was surprised that a female acted upon nonetheless.
"We were awaiting your Arrival Master Gloin!" he said taking a seat behind his desk and gesturing them to take a seat.
Glóin gazed at the Lord of Rivendell and smiled "And we have Mirkwood to blame." He recalled the aid that was offered to them in the old forest road. "But then again they have aid us through our journey." he acknowledged.
Awarthrie arched a sly brow at Gloin's words. She had spotted that the passage along the old Forest road was clean from orc attacks. She insisted that Mirkwood was the cause. However Glóin and even Gimli, dismissed her suggestions. And told her, it was her imagination. She frowned and shook her head. They would have a long talk about that.
"You are far away form Erebor?" Elrond quizzed disturbing her thoughts.
"Orcs, Goblins and every dark creatures are slowly increasing around the Lonely Mountain, Dale and beyond. But I am sure, Mirkwood briefed you in Master Elrond." Glóin said winning fully everyone's attention "Evil messengers reach the Lonely Mountain promising the return of one or more of the Seven rings if we would reveal the location of Bilbo Baggins. I can't foretell the future Master Elrond, yet I am sure something dark is in work." Glóin concluded and rested his hands against his lap.
Elrond spoke after a few long minutes, as one more source verified what he had feared. "I know about Mirkwood and I myself have noticed the darkness that floats heavily around." he answered gazing at Glóin "I would recommend for the time being your company and you to remain in Rivendell. You services might be needed."
Glóin stood up and gave a slight bow towards Elrond. "It was in our plans to stay a bit longer in Rivendell." he informed him. "We wanted our youngest" he paused and pointed at Awarthrie "to learn about the Elves and Rivendell."
Lord Elrond gazed Awarthrie and back at Glóin "She hails from House of Durin?" he questioned. Although, there were so many similarities with the dwarves, equally there were differences. Elrond used to know most of the races of Middle-earth and the young girl in front of him did not look as a dwarf lady.
Awarthrie gather her fist in a punch. She hated talking about what she was. Specially her elf side, she never wanted to be revealed. Her eyes pinned against the father figure, hoping he would not give away every detail to the Master of the house.
"She is a bloodline of Durin, daughter of Kili. Her name is Awarthrie" Glóin spoke loudly and proudly. "After his death, I raised her. She is my daughter." Glóin turned and faced her smiling at her.
"I remember Kili and his brother. He was indeed a very handsome dwarf, stubborn and very tall." Lord Elrond kindly replied not pushing the matter. He noted she could not be only dwarf. However, he chooses to keep their secret safe. "Awarthrie, daughter of Kili. You look very alike your father." he said smiling at her. "I won't keep you any longer. You will be guided to your chambers. You can clean, eat and rest. Tomorrow we will dine together."
Awarthrie cracked a soft smile at Lord Elrond. He seemed a wise and kind elf. Gloin's group bowed and left the chamber. They were lead to deeper into Elrond house. Each was offered a bed chamber. Towels, soap and clean ropes were given to them. They were told where the bathing tubs and the warm springs of Rivendell were. Later on plates with vegetables and fruits were served.
((Next Act: 3 One foe closer - One friend farther))
she-elf: (s) elleth - (pl) ellith
he-elf: (s) ellon - (pl) ellyn
Thank you for taking the time to read this! Feel free to Review!
