Disclaimer: I do not own Lord of the Rings and I write this story as an avid fan with no profit or gain.
Lona Beth Undorina: Hello, thanks for your review. I don't mind 10th walker stories but I wanted to do something a little more unique. Lauriel will play a role in the war, but not as a member of the fellowship directly.
Babe Malf: I haven't revealed how the door works just yet, but no Lauriel will not be leaving Lothlorien with the fellowship. Read my message to lona beth undorina.
It'sBeenARealSlice: FULL STEAM AHEAD!
Mixy Mint, Pelspen Love, VdW-89, Red Rough, The Butterflys, Thea, Madame Deveroux, Ainulindale of Arada, : See my author's note. You all bring up some excellent questions and dangers about the world mixing… I have faith in Lauriel though : )
Drovitch77: Thanks for your thorough review. I love reading what people think about character development and their thoughts on future plot possibilities. I hope this chapter keeps you coming back for more!
ChibiFelicia: I'm so sorry that it took me a month to update. Life got CRAZY for a while and I wanted to post something significant, not just a couple thousand words. I hope it was worth the wait… Looks like life is calming down (just a bit) so I hope to update regularly again.
The Happiest: Once again, thank you for your review. I always enjoy reading your reaction and thoughts. Sorry for the wait but I think you'll like this chapter!
Amun Dae: Yes! Loving the "Team LauGolas" PERFECT
Adele: Dang, your review blew me away. Completely. Wow, thank you so much for taking the team to write your thoughts and reactions. Your summary of Haldir and Lauriel's relationship is exactly what I am going for. Thank you for picking up on small things too. I look forward to your next review!
Crixus: Thank you for your review and questions. I am taking some liberties with elf culture (see author's note) but yes, I will be considering intimacy equivalent to marriage for elves. As for Legolas and Lauriel, let's call them LauGolas (compliments of Amun Dae)
AngelicRoses: fjaodsjgoiahglkjgaoidrf I am super excited by how super excited you are. Love the energy!
Namehere V2 and MinaMina: Thank you for your review and I am glad that you are enjoying the story. I love binge reading good stories so I am extremely flattered that you can do that with my writing. Let me know what you think of this chapter- has a lot to do with the love triangle. DUN DUN DUN
Kvdsouza: Haha, I hope your boss didn't catch you reading fanfic. But if he/she does and gives you a hard time, I'll beat them up. Just kidding- Lauriel will do it for me. Thank you for saying she's not a Mary Sue, I did my best to avoid a perfect character. She's a spitfire with issues, but a pleasant character in the end. I don't know of any fics that have OC doctors, scientists, or engineers sorry… if you find one, let me know. I'd love to read it too.
Rayne: Hi again. I love all your thought-provoking questions. I am tempted to introduce more modern knowledge into the story, but I also want to focus on moving the plot along to the war. But I will try to fit in some comic relief with "what's a tampon?" or other random modern questions. Haha probably not a tampon though… I don't think even Gimli could handle that one. As for Tauriel and Kili, you'll see…
Author's Note: The fierce protectiveness you all have for Middle Earth is wonderful. Lauriel shares your concern about our world learning of ME- it is why she has kept her rifle and pistol secretive and locked away. Several of you have brought up the fact that elves do in fact hunt. I have not finished the book series and am mostly relying on the movies for information. However, please understand that I am taking certain creative liberties with my story. So while elves may hunt in the books, I'm going to pretend that it's taboo here. Go with the flow… Thanks! Now enjoy!
...
Chapter 26
When the door opened, Legolas looked up in surprise to see Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn enter the healing quarters. They wore grim expressions as their eyes fell on Lauriel. She lay silently on the bed, her arms resting at her sides and eyes closed peacefully. Although the healers had taken care of her head wounds, she remained unconscious. The darkened pool of red water and several bloodied bandages on the table beside Legolas' chair were a testament to the severity of her injuries. The Mirkwood prince stood, releasing his grip on Lauriel's hand, and bowed his head respectfully.
"How is she?" Lord Celeborn asked.
"They have closed the wound," Legolas said. "The healers say they have done what they can. They say it is only a matter of time before she awakens."
Lady Galadriel nodded, her glowing eyes darkening. "Show us where it happened."
When she noticed the prince hesitate, she stepped aside and let the elf who lingered in the doorway enter. Tiriel entered holding a clean dress, light in material and shape. Her face paled at the sight of her friend still on the bed, but she stepped forward resolutely, eager to get the bloody garments off Lauriel. Lady Galadriel gestured towards the door, "She will be in good hands Legolas."
Unable to refuse, Legolas forced himself to walk forward and onto the platform outside, nearly colliding with an elf who stood just beyond the doorway.
"Prince Legolas," The broad-shouldered elf said lowly.
"Marchwarden," Legolas replied shortly. The two stared at each other, tension rising and eyes narrowing. Thankfully, the lord and lady of the city interrupted as they stepped out as well.
"Show us where this contraption was," Lord Celeborn instructed, but not unkindly. "Tell us everything, Legolas."
The blond elf nodded and began to recount the events of the past several hours. He led them to the forest floor and down the familiar path. He made sure to side step the trail of blood that fell on the dirt below, trying to ignore the rise of fear in his chest. He had carried Lauriel as quickly as he could and despite the healers' reassurances that she would be fine, the sight of her blood here frightened him. He was grateful when no one, not even Haldir, commented on the blood trail. Legolas did his best to describe the metal monster that had vanished into the door, he told them what Lauriel had said and done, pointing out the tracks in the ground.
Lord Celeborn and Haldir bent down, fingers tracing over the strange markings in the dirt. "So this metal creature rolled? What sort of wheel leaves such a mark?"
Legolas shook his head, "It did not run on wheels. It was a sheet of metal that rotated around, rectangular and long. There was a sheet on each side."
They followed the tracks, taking note of where the metal invader had clearly hacked away at tree trunks and plants, ripping through the forest. The path of destruction unnerved the elves as they finally came to a tree with a blotch of red against its trunk.
"The door was here," Legolas pointed. "It did not touch the ground."
Haldir did a quick search around the tree and the nearby vegetation. He returned to the group and shook his head, "The necklace is not there."
"It disappeared into the door," Legolas said sharply. "As I said."
"Perhaps you were mistaken," Haldir challenged.
Lord Celeborn raised a hand, effectively silencing both warriors who glowered at one another. He directed his words to his wife however, who was pushing her hands through the air, on the dirt below, and even against the bloodied tree.
"I do not feel anything," She answered softly. "There is no magic here, it is as if the door or metal creature did not exist."
"Strange," Lord Celeborn muttered. "Tell me again, what did you see through the door?"
Legolas closed his eyes, recalling the strange glimpse into a world he did not understand. "It was bright, there were many lights from within. I could see men walking, they wore strange white clothing and carried papers. Some had strange things on their faces, bits of glass over their eyes. There were metal boxes with lights coming from them."
"Could you hear them?"
"No," He opened his eyes again. "I do not think they could hear us. Lauriel shouted but they did not react."
Lady Galadriel smiled sadly at him, "Thank you, Legolas. I am sure that Tiriel has changed and cleaned up Lauriel by now. You may return if you wish."
Grateful, Prince Legolas ran towards the path and left the three Lothrlorien elves alone. After a moment Lord Celeborn spoke, "Haldir-"
The Marchwarden snapped to attention, his eyes opening from the slits that watched the prince retreat. "Yes, my lord?"
"Arrange for a patrol in this area, I want it watched day and night. Whatever this metal beast was, it is dangerous."
"It will be done," Haldir answered swiftly and also took his leave.
Lady Galadriel lay a hand on her husband's shoulder, "I fear our world will never be the same again."
"We have faced threats before," Lord Celeborn murmured.
"None like this."
"That may be true, but we will protect our people as we always have."
"This is no longer just about elves my love. I fear we must protect all of Middle Earth."
"A daunting task," Lord Celeborn conceded. "But we are not alone. Lauriel will-"
Lady Galadriel looked away, "She is torn. I see many futures in my mirror, there are still choices she must take before. Lauriel must decide where her loyalties lie and when she does, she will either save or doom this world."
…
…
Something was not quite right about the situation. Lauriel found herself standing at the bottom of the staircase that led to the private quarters of the lord and lady of Lothlórien and for some odd reason, could not remember how she got there. She looked around and found no one, not even the leaves on the ground stirred. The city felt devoid of life and this unnerved her.
The noise of gun shots boomed through the air suddenly, making Lauriel collapse to the ground in effort to avoid being hit. Her eyes flashed and she stiffened as the gunfire continued, but sounding more distant as the seconds painfully ticked by. When nothing around her exploded or shattered, she cautiously stood and peered up the stairs. The sound came from above and she hastened forward. Marines did not run away from gunfire, they ran towards it. Had someone stolen her weapons? Were they attacking the lord and lady? Adrenaline coursed through Lauriel as she took the steps two at a time and paused when she entered the home. The room looked deserted, abandoned to a layer of dust and time that no one had protected it against. Her feet made crunching noises as she stepped on fallen parchment and clusters of leaves brought in through the empty windows and doorway. The noise of gun shots drew her from the room and into another familiar one.
"Of course," Lauriel slumped in relief when she came upon the room with the pillar. However, her concern returned when the noise continued and the Lady Galadriel did not reveal herself. Growing ever more afraid of what she would find, Lauriel slowly moved forward until she stood by the bowl's edge and peered at the water's surface.
The water was tainted red and revealed a grim scene. Men and women aimed the weapons at orcs and trolls who raced towards them with roars and screeches. Her countrymen wore their fatigues as they held their positions, firing freely and with deadly precision on the monsters that attacked. Their bullets tore through the enemy's ranks, bodies falling at alarming rates but still the orcs and trolls pressed forward. They fell, their swords and shields completely useless against the onslaught of bullets, grenades, and… The entire room seemed to shake abruptly. Lauriel jumped back as water sloshed from the bowl as a bomb was dropped from above and exploded in the midst of monsters. The red liquid stained the floor below and some splashed onto the white tunic Lauriel wore. It was too heavy to be water, she now realized and Lauriel bent down. Two fingers dipped into the fallen liquid and she gasped as the texture was thick and sticky.
"Blood?" She heard the screams of men and women, forcing herself to stand up again and watch the water again. The battle raged on for several more seconds and then the dust and dirt settled, revealing the modern soldiers lifting their weapons in the air. They shouted in victory, walking forward in the field and over the corpses of thousands of monsters. Lauriel began to feel joy- her people would free Middle Earth from Sauron. With their help, evil would no longer threaten her friends and their kingdoms. Men, elves, dwarves, and hobbits alike would be saved!
Her brow furrowed slightly. Where were the races of Middle Earth? Why was it only her countrymen fighting? Almost sensing her questions, the scene vanished and was replaced with a new one. She immediately recognized the three elves who stood with fierce expressions. Lord Elrond and his sons wore their armor and held their swords in hand, ready to face a threat that clearly approached. Lord Elrond shouted orders and the army of elves that waited behind him stood to attention, preparing for battle. They served as a physical barrier to the city's entrance. Had Sauron turned his eyes onto Rivendell? Is this why the elves hadn't helped her people? Were the races all busy facing battles of their own?
When the mirror began to move in the direction the elves watched, Lauriel expected a horde of orcs and goblins, perhaps even wraiths. So when she found herself watching rank upon rank of modern soldiers marching down the valley paths, her eyes widened. They were a ghastly sight. Men and women alike stared at the elves coldly, some with outright hostility, and worse, had their rifles ready.
"Will you not leave our lands in peace?" Lord Elrond shouted as the army of modern era men descended.
An army general led them and came to a halt, the soldiers behind him forming ranks and those who did not fit onto the ground level remained higher on the path. They all raised their rifles, rocket launchers, and various weaponry at the elves. No one fired and the general clicked his tongue. He was a man Lauriel had never met before and the way in which he smiled at Lord Elrond, someone she respected as a father, made her skin crawl.
"We gave you freaks a chance for peace and you rejected it," The general said. "You wouldn't give us what we wanted when we asked nicely and now… Now we're taking it forcefully."
Elladan stepped forward, snarling, "You fools! There is no secret to immortality. We are born with it, it is not something we can give you!"
"Ah, perhaps not. However our scientists seem to think the key is in your DNA and the more… specimens we have, the faster they'll figure it out and lucky for us, you and your city will provide more than enough samples."
"We will die before allowing you to experiment on us!" Elrohir declared in disgust.
The general grinned, "Who said anything about the specimens needing to be alive? Goodbye freaks. This land is ours now. FIRE!"
The blood crept over the brim of the bowl and fell onto the floor as a red, scarlet waterfall. Lauriel screamed as elves fell, a bullet blasting its way through Lord Elrond's head before he could even blink. She fell backwards, her white tunic turning red as she fell into the bloody pool. Her body bent as she vomited, sickened by the nightmare she'd just witnessed. She had to get away from here. The betrayal- so much death and blood could not be real. Where was Lady Galadriel? Where was Haldir? Why hadn't they warned the others what her people were going to do? Lauriel ran from the room and out of the residence, nearly tumbling down the stairs in her haste to find the others. She sprinted through the familiar paths, encountering no one and was dismayed to see the lanterns throughout the city unlit. She screamed names of loved ones and passed the dining hall, which was left in a state of disarray with upturned tables and broken dishes. Finally, Lauriel came upon the lower levels of the city and just as she bounded towards the stables, the flash of golden hair caught her attention. She peered over the edge, expected to see elves walking on the forest below…
She found elves, but they were not walking. They were not doing anything nor would they ever. Laying below her was a sea of bodies, golden and silver hair spattered with red. A massive hole had been dug in the earth and the corpses of executed elves thrown haphazardly within. The dirt had not even been placed over them, revealing an ugly view for the city above. "No…" Lauriel whispered, recognizing the circular shape of bullet holes in their foreheads. Her eyes jumped from face to face, her brain unable to comprehend the horror and- "NO!" She sobbed, collapsing against the wooden rail. Her eyes had found him. Haldir lay lifeless, his hair half-covering his face and his chest riddled with bullet wounds. Next to him was Tiriel, whose head rested against the feet of a silent Rumil. Unable to see anyone else, Lauriel shut her eyes.
"Please," She gasped for breath. "Please let this be a nightmare. Please…"
The Valar answered her pleas and the world spun away, leaving Lauriel in a world of darkness. Light began to creep from the edges of her vision and she suddenly felt heavy. With great effort, Lauriel moved and realized the weight was her own body. Her eyes snapped open and Lauriel felt something soft press against her cheek.
Tiriel sat on the edge of her bed, wiping tears away from her face. The elleth appeared slightly panicked and said, "She's awake now. You can let go."
"Lauriel," A masculine voice said gently. "You are safe mellon, I am here."
She turned to see Legolas standing over her, his hands over her arms. They held her limbs down, pinned against the mattress. It took her several seconds to understand that she must have been flinging or moving from her terrible dreams. Taking a deep breath, she croaked, "Are we in Lothlórien?"
"Of course," Legolas released his grip and leaned away, a concerned look softening his striking features.
"How long have I been out?" She asked, her eyes darting between Tiriel and Legolas, terrified of the answer.
"Four days," Tiriel answered. "The healers were able to heal your wounds within a few hours, but the internal healing took longer."
"What is it?" Legolas took her face into his hands gently, his palms warm against her cheeks. "You are pale."
"W-What's happened while I've been asleep?" She demanded, ignoring his question.
Alarmed at the ferocity behind her words, Legolas dropped his hands and responded, "Nothing for you to worry about. There were a few orcs who tried to enter but the guards were prepared. Do not fret, all is well. Please, rest-"
"R-Rest," Lauriel whispered in disbelief. She would find no rest after the things she saw. "Could someone get the healers? I wish to go home."
Tiriel glided away at the request, leaving Legolas to stare at her with a questioning look. "Home?" He asked slowly.
"Yes," She said annoyed. "If I am to be imprisoned to a bed, I'd rather be back in the privacy of my own flet."
Relief washed over his features, making her frown. "What?"
"Nothing," He said, a dazzling smile lighting his face.
"No, tell me," She insisted.
Legolas paused and then said, still smiling, "I did not know which home you meant, but I am glad it is one within this world and not another."
Even though a small part of her screamed in outrage at her inadvertent betrayal, Lauriel found herself returning the smile. Perhaps it would not be so difficult to choose, not when someone smiled like that at her.
…
…
Even from outside the flet, he could hear the thumps and rapid footsteps. Haldir raised his hand to knock on the door and his knuckles brushed against the wood, but stopped when he heard raised voices from within.
"Stop!" A familiar feminine voice said in a pleading tone. "You should be resting!"
"I'm fine," Another voice snapped back. A smile tugged at his lips. He could see her stubborn expression in his mind, he knew it better than anyone. In fact, Haldir was so familiar with her that he let his hand drop slowly. It saddened him that he had nearly knocked. Lauriel trusted few people to enter her home without the polite knock and before their fight, he had been one of them. Before her fight, things had been different. That had been four nights ago and he had spent every waking moment thinking of her. So when word reached him that she was awake and in her flet, he wasted no time in paying her a visit. His fingers wrapped around the door knob and turned it, opening the door silently. Within he found the front room empty and after closing the door behind him, strode towards the bedroom. Haldir made his footsteps fall heavy, creaking on the wooden floor so that the two elleths would not be alarmed at his presence. A head popped into the doorway, dark hair falling so that it covered her face momentarily.
Light eyes narrowed at him and Haldir slowed. "Oh," Lauriel observed. "It's only you. Come to order me around too?"
A flicker of anger rose in him, but the Marchwarden ignored the jab. She was still angry with him and he did not blame her. Having spoken with his brothers on the matter, Haldir knew to approach the elleth with the patience he normally lacked. He merely shook his head, cautious. "No, I am here to see how you are."
Lauriel's terse expression softened slightly, but she remained guarded. "I'm fine. The healers released me and-"
"You were unconscious for four days!" Tiriel appeared in the doorway with her arms crossed. "They told you to rest and-"
"My head doesn't even hurt," Lauriel said straightening up. With more of her body coming into view, Haldir frowned at the strange leather boots in her hands. After a moment, he recognized them as the pair she wore when she first arrived in Middle Earth.
His frowned deepened, "What are you doing with those?"
Tiriel sighed dramatically while Lauriel beamed, her face brightening. Whatever anger she felt for him was momentarily forgotten as she answered, "Packing of course!"
"Packing," Haldir repeated, disbelieving. She disappeared back into the bedroom and Tiriel gave the Marchwarden an exasperated look.
"She will not listen to reason," The librarian whispered harshly.
It wasn't until he fully entered the bedroom did Haldir feel his stomach drop. There were clothes and supplies strewn everywhere, covering the bed, vanity, and floor. His eyes inspected the items, many were things he did not recognize or understand because they were from another world and like her weapons, Lauriel kept them hidden away. On the bed lay two large packs and Lauriel hurriedly rolled a shirt and shoved it inside one.
"Where are you going?" His mouth felt dry.
Lauriel ran about the room in a craze, grabbing things at random and dropping them on the bed. "Back to my world. The rover proves there's a way and now that they know I'm here it's just a matter of time until-"
"Lauriel," Haldir said.
"Until they come for me and I'll have to be ready because-"
"Lauriel," He said again.
"Because who knows how long the door will stay open and I will not miss my chance to-"
"Lauriel!" He shouted, making the brunette jump in place.
The clothes she held in her arms fell to the ground and she winced, "What?!"
"What if they never return?"
Her face was stunned as she stared at him in silence. Tiriel, always the gentler, spoke up, "What Haldir means to say is, you cannot give up on your life here."
The stunned expression transformed into one filled with hurt and fury. Lauriel bent down and picked up the clothes, defiantly dumping them into the bags. "What is that supposed to mean?"
Haldir and Tiriel locked eyes and the elleth took over, sensing the Marchwarden's uncertainty. She stepped forward, leaning against the bedpost. "Lauriel… We do not want to see you hurt again. It took you years to accept your life here and-"
"And I made a life here," The Marine cut her off, standing straighter. "I'm grateful for it, I truly am, but you both know I've been looking for a way home since my first day here."
Haldir's hands clenched into fists, "But you are home, can't you see that?"
Lauriel's gaze fell on him, her eyes burning so brightly that the brown hues looked golden. They pierced through him and Haldir struggled not to look away as she said coldly, "Am I?"
Tiriel gasped softly, hurt by this. Her arms fell limp to her sides, "How can you even say that? To us? Have we not cared for you? Welcomed you into-"
"You have given me a home," Lauriel returned her eyes to Tiriel, releasing Haldir from the spell and his shoulders fell. "There is no doubting your kindness and generosity, but we all know that I don't belong here. I'm a freak, neither elf nor man. There is no place for someone like me in this world and worse, I'm a danger to everyone I care about. Sauron will not stop until he has the ring and me. I must return to my own world so I can protect you."
"You act as if the fate of this world rests solely on your shoulders," Haldir half-shouted. Despite his talks with his brothers and his days of readying himself for this conversation, his patience broke and his passionate nature flared. He crossed the room, paying no heed to the clothes and things he stepped on. His hands fell onto the very shoulders he spoke of and shook them slightly, frustrated. "You fool, you beautiful fool. It is not your responsibility to save our world! There is a war coming, but do not forget you are not the only soldier in it. We fight with you, we will protect you!"
Lauriel looked away, "You do not understand."
"I may not know how this war will end or if your people will find you, but I do know that you are not alone."
"I AM ALONE!" She screamed, pushing him away. "You're wrong Haldir. The fate of Middle Earth is in my hands."
It was his turn to be stunned. The blood drained from his face as he whispered, "W-What?"
"I saw things," Lauriel wrapped her arms around herself as she involuntarily shivered. "Before I woke up, I saw what will happen to this world if I stay. I saw myself captured by Sauron and felt him… I felt him torture me until I broke. I saw him destroy this world."
"It was only a dream," Tiriel murmured, her voice pained. "Lauriel, you may be right. Your people may find you before Sauron can even-"
"I saw that future too," Lauriel's voice cracked. "If you know what my world was capable of, you'd hate me."
"We could never hate you," Haldir immediately said. He yearned to touch her, but the way Lauriel clung to herself prevented him from moving.
A cold laugh escaped her lips. "Oh, yes you would. You hate mortals more than anyone Haldir, you know them to be greedy, liars, and manipulative."
He shook his head, "You proved me wrong. You showed me that men can-"
"You were right," She whispered. "They will come and they may take me home, but they will never leave Middle Earth alone. They will destroy this planet, in ways that even Sauron couldn't. Your lands will be conquered, races slaughtered, and resources stolen. They-" Lauriel paused and corrected herself, "We have done it before. When we discovered a new continent, we enslaved the people living there and took it for ourselves. Middle Earth is the next continent."
Tiriel sat on the bed, unable to stand after such a declaration. "B-But," The elleth struggled for words. "But they will listen to you! You can prevent such a-"
"No, I can't."
No one argued with her, both of the elves knowing that this was beyond their comprehension. Lauriel never lied to them, her blunt honesty notorious amongst the elves, and they knew that if she said she could not stop such atrocities, she meant it. Haldir shut his eyes, wishing he could unhear the words.
"All is lost then," Tiriel whispered hoarsely.
"Not exactly."
Haldir's eyes snapped open and he watched as Lauriel paced around the room, speaking more to herself than them. "Let's say the door stays open long enough and I return to my world… I may not be able to stop an invasion, but they can't invade if there's no door right? I'll get access to the lab and destroy the door before the attacks begin or least damage it."
"Surely your rulers will punish you?" Haldir challenged.
"Of course they will," She responded, still pacing. "I'll spend the rest of my life in jail but that doesn't matter. What is one life of imprisonment for the safety of an entire world?"
"And if the door does not remain open?"
Her pacing stopped suddenly and Lauriel sighed heavily, "Then Middle Earth will face only one war instead of two. I'll remain here and fight with you against Sauron."
"You speak as if you have no choice in the matter." When she did not speak, Haldir grit his teeth. "You made the choice to fight against him and more importantly, you decided to make a life here."
"Did I not just say I'll fight against him?" She bit out.
Tiriel bit her lip, "We are worried for you Lauriel. It took you years to finally make the choice to truly make a life for yourself instead of scouring the lands searching for a sign. It has taken more than a decade for this… thing you call rover to appear. What if it takes another decade to return? Perhaps a century? Will you waste away, always waiting for another sign?"
"That is no way to live," Haldir hesitantly stepped forward. "We wish for you to be happy. We care about you. I care about you."
A few moments passed and Tiriel's eyes darted between the other two elves present. She cleared her throat awkwardly and left the room, mumbling an excuse that went unheard. Left alone, Haldir took another step forward and gained confidence when Lauriel did not step away. "I will always care for you, whether you are mortal or immortal in this world or in another."
"Stop-"
"Nothing will ever change the way I feel for you. If you think for a moment that-"
"Stop, please," She pleaded.
Haldir ignored her and closed the distance between them, wrapping his arms around her, "I wish I could shield you from these responsibilities and the dangers from this world and others, but I cannot. That does not mean you face them alone Lauriel, never forget that."
Her arms did not embrace him, they remained across her torso and clung to her own body. She did allow her head to rest against his chest as she struggled to form coherent thoughts. Too many emotions flooded through her, making it difficult to know what to say and how to feel. Finally, she voiced a question she desperately wanted to know the answer to. "What am I supposed to do? Pretend the rover never came?"
His arms tightened around her and Haldir rested his chin on the top of her head, something he had never done before. Lauriel normally stood tall enough so that his chin only reached her nose, but she was hunched inward, lost and afraid. He wanted to tell her yes, to forget her world and remain forever in his, but even if it were an option, he could not lie to her. With a heavy heart he said, "No, you must not forget it or lose hope for your world. Hope is both beautiful and powerful, it is what makes you strong, but it can make you weak if you allow it to blind you. Do not let this sign distract you from the war already at hand. We must fight one battle at a time and right now, the ring is the most pressing matter."
She withdrew her head and gave him a suspicious look, "Are you saying this because you wish me to stay for you?"
He chose his words very carefully, "No, but I will not lie. Losing you is my greatest fear."
"Haldir, I cannot give you what you want."
"Y-You have decided then?"
"I have," She said, sadly. "I am a different person now. I may not know who I am and what world I will end up in, but I do know that I am not the one for you."
"Is this because of the rover?" His voice sounded eerily calm.
"No, I have felt this way for a long time. I lost myself and I think I'm finally starting to figure out who I am. Whether I'm elf or woman, I will fight for what is right and knowing that I am a soldier for good against evil is enough for me. You're right about the ring, I need to focus on the war that we know is coming, not one that might be, but how can I just sit here and not scour every inch of the forest looking for the door again? I'll go crazy."
"You are not the type to stay idle," Haldir released her with a small and sad smile.
"Are you angry with me?" She asked meekly.
The Marchwarden considered her question for a moment, then shook his head. "I cannot change the way you feel and I care too much for our friendship to ruin it with petty anger."
"I am sorry, truly." She rubbed her forehead, "The last thing I want is to hurt you."
"I have made mistakes," Haldir said calmly. "And unfortunately, they turned you away. I am a fool."
Lauriel did not know why her mind forced the question out of her mouth then, but it did. "Why did you dance with Arasinya? I thought you disliked her."
He did not seem surprised by her inquiry and his face hardened. "Like I said, I have made mistakes. I allowed jealousy to clear my judgement. When you danced with others, I did not know what do. Rúmil suggested dancing with Lady Arasinya to catch your attention."
Despite the situation, Lauriel chuckled. "You know better than to take advice from Rúmil."
"A lesson I have learned once again," Haldir said, chuckling as well. Their mirth lightened the mood and Lauriel felt hope that their friendship could be restored. It seemed Haldir did to because he introduced another topic, eager to abandon the first. "I suggest you find something to distract you. It is a waste of your time and abilities to search the forest when the patrols can do that for you. I will give orders that each team is to routinely check the ground for strange tracks. If the metal creature returns, we will know it."
"A distraction…" Lauriel's arms relaxed, grateful to have normal conversation again. "I think I know something to keep me busy for the time being."
Pleased to see her less panicked, Haldir asked, "What is it? Basket weaving, tailoring, or perhaps singing?"
She wrinkled her nose at his joke. "Of course not. No, I am going to improve my fighting skills."
"Ah, would you like me to help you? I can reduce my days at the border to accommodate-"
Lauriel rubbed her neck, uncomfortably. "Thank you, but someone has already offered."
"Prince Legolas." He did not pose it as a question, but a hard fact. When she silently nodded in affirmation, Haldir forced himself to keep his cool composure, but felt himself losing control.
"I'm sorry Haldir. His form is very different from anything I've seen before, I think it would be beneficial to learn from him. It has nothing to do with what happened between us-"
"I am glad that you will have something to keep you busy. If you ever require my help, please ask. Now, I must relay your health to my brothers, they have been asking nonstop about you." Quickly, he made his exit before Lauriel could see his facial muscles collapse or the shiny glaze to his eyes. No one, not even she, saw him like this. He passed Tiriel, who sat quietly on an armchair in the front room, without a word and escaped the flet.
…
…
Frodo and Sam sat together on one of the several logs around the fire. In their hands were bowls filled with salad and fruit, but the food remained untouched for the moment. Their attention was currently claimed by their companion, who walked nervously around the encampment.
"If he keeps that up," Sam murmured, "He'll dig a hole in the ground!"
The gardener reddened when the elf froze, his head tilting slightly towards them, and stopped his pacing. Realizing that elves could hear practically everything, Sam began to pick at his food, embarrassed at being caught. Frodo chuckled, glancing between the other hobbit and Legolas who after several moments, resumed his pacing once more. Just as Frodo began to eat his food as well, Gimli stood up with a grunt and marched towards the blond prince.
"She'll visit soon enough, you know."
Legolas stopped, facing Gimli and nodded tightly. "Yes, for now she must rest, as the healers said."
"Something tells me that Lady Lauriel will not take kindly to remaining in bed any longer," The dwarf said with a knowing smile. "Not when she has better things to do, like visit you. Why she likes you pointy ears is a mystery though."
That made the elf smile, despite his anxiety. "Despite what you may think, I do have friends dwarf."
"I don't think I'd call her a friend," Gimli snorted.
Legolas' eyebrows furrowed, "What do you mean? Is she angry with me? I must go see-"
In a bold move, the dwarf reached out and grabbed the elf by the arm. "Calm yourself. She's not angry with you so there's no need to go chasing her down."
"Then what-"
"Forget about what I said, in fact why don't you forget about the lass for a bit and come sit with the rest of us? Your pacing is driving the others mad!"
Legolas glanced over at the fire and sure enough, several pairs of eyes were watching him warily. He flushed slightly, not realizing this his actions caused further concern to the already tired group. Their nights and days were not filled with the calm rest they had initially hoped for. The whispers of the coming war and growing darkness were inescapable. When Aragorn had shared news that a patrol had fought off an orc attack just the day before, the fellowship had fell quiet. No one looked forward to leaving the safety of the forest with such attacks awaiting them. Not wanting to add to their growing fear, Legolas forced himself to calm down. Perhaps the dwarf was right- Something that rarely happened. Not wanting to spend the rest of the evening worrying about a certain elleth, Legolas tipped his head at Gimli who immediately dropped his hand. The two returned to the fire where Aragorn and Boromir conversed quietly and the others listened, but Legolas struggled to put his pointy ears to the task.
...
…
Within the wooden trunk were two efficiently packed bags, a rifle, and a pistol. Inside these bags were the modern tools and belongings of First Lieutenant Lauren Harris and it was Lauriel's duty to keep them locked away until… Until the unlikely need for them arose. She stood tall, her hands resting on her hips as she stared long and hard at the wooden exterior of the trunk. Could she do it? Could she really put her whole life from that world on pause for the sake of her life here? Lauriel closed her eyes, inhaling deeply as the visions from her unconscious days flew past her eyelids. The crimson color of hot, dripping liquid made her eyes snap open.
Yes.
The answer was yes. She not only could do it, but needed to, for the sake of Middle Earth. Without stopping to think any further, Lauriel bent forward and snapped the lock in place. She pushed the trunk until it was out of sight and beneath her bed, then quickly left the room feeling strangely relieved but empty at the same time. Tiriel, who sat waiting on her favorite armchair stood up slowly.
"Is it done?" Her friend asked.
"Yes."
Tiriel exhaled softly, "You have made the right decision."
"I hope so," Lauriel said before clapping her hands together. "Alright, there will be no more talk of rovers or other words. Let us leave it all behind." She began to walk towards the door but was forced to stop when Tiriel jumped forward and blocked the way. "What are you doing?"
The librarian sniffed, "You are supposed to be resting!"
"When I said leave it behind," Lauriel thrust her thumb over her shoulder and in the direction of the bedroom. "I meant it literally. I need to get away from here, it's absolutely suffocating."
"Then perhaps we can rest in my home," Tiriel suggested as she moved out of the way and allowed Lauriel to pass. Once they were outside, Lauriel took a deep breath and let the cool, clean air fill her lungs. Perhaps it was sentimental and silly to think it, but she felt the air cleanse her. After years of self-induced angst and sorrow, she had a fresh start before her. Lauriel knew that as she left her flet and the trunk behind, she moved forward with an identity. She knew who she was and what she must do, but more importantly she knew what she wanted.
"You go ahead, I want to see someone first."
"Lauriel…" Her friend said in a warning tone, knowing exactly who that someone was.
"I won't tire myself out, there will be no physical exertion," Lauriel held her hands up in a surrendering manner. "Promise!"
"Fine, I will see you shortly then," Tiriel turned away and then paused. Glancing over her shoulder she said quietly, "For what it is worth, I am saddened that you told Haldir no. He would have made a fine husband for you."
Surprised by the sudden change of topic, Lauriel bit her lip. "I… I am sorry to disappoint you but I can't help the way I feel."
"The heart is a strange thing," Was all Tiriel said before she walked away.
Yes it is, Lauriel agreed as she watched the other elleth retreat. She knew it would be awkward with her friends and the city would be abuzz with gossip when word spread, but none of that mattered. There was a war coming and Lauriel would be damned if she let the opinions of others bring her down. After Tiriel vanished down the path, Lauriel turned and walked in the opposite direction. The stairs and wooden bridges led her through a zig zag until she came upon the camp of the fellowship. As she approached, she could hear Gimli's rough laughter and and Aragorn's voice narrating a story. She recognized it as a popular elvish tale and politely waited behind a tree for the man to finish. She leaned against the trunk and listened as the story drew close to the end, but the sounds of light footsteps caught her attention. Just as she turned her neck, Legolas appeared with a knowing smile.
"Hiding are we?" He murmured.
"I didn't want to interrupt," She whispered back and they stared at each other, both smiling.
After a few moments, he cleared his throat, "Are you alright?"
She elbowed him, "What did I say about asking me that?"
Legolas chuckled quietly, "I apologize. What I meant is how are you feeling?"
"I feel fine, no pain whatsoever. I feel a little tired, but nothing a good night's sleep can't handle."
"Oi!" A rough voice yelled, "What are you doing over there Legolas? Talking to a tree? Elves!"
Winking at Legolas, Lauriel pushed off the trunk and moved out into the open. "I've been called many things in my life Gimli, but never tree. I don't know how I feel about it."
The dwarf let out a boom of laughter, standing up hastily as did the rest of the fellowship. "Good to see you lassie!"
"Lady Lauriel!" Sam exclaimed, "You're awake!"
Boromir reached her first and he hugged her so tightly that Lauriel felt the air knocked out of her momentarily. "It is good to see you my friend," The man said as he released her.
"You too," She clapped his shoulder, catching her breath.
Gimli crossed his arms and with a triumphant smirk said, "I knew you couldn't stay away long."
The other members of the fellowship drew around her and she beamed at them. "How could I resist the company of you fine gentlemen?"
The dwarf glanced at the blond elf who joined the group, "Don't you mean gentleman?"
"What?" Lauriel said hesitantly, making sure her eyes didn't stray to a certain blond elf.
"Never mind," Gimli waved her off. "We are glad to see you up and lively again."
"How's your head? Legolas said you hit it quite hard," Aragorn inquired.
Slightly embarrassed, she tapped her head experimentally, "Good as new, not even a bruise left. Sorry to interrupt your story by the way."
The man shrugged, "I had just finished when Gimli called out. Boromir was going to tell a story next but-"
"Oh please do!" Lauriel turned to the Gondorian. "I have read and heard many Elvin tales, but never one from Gondor. Do you mind if I join? I can't stay long but I can't miss out on such an opportunity."
Boromir grinned at her, "I would be honored for your company. Now which sort of tale does the lady seek? One filled with romance and love? Or perhaps a deadly tale of betrayal?"
"How about a hero tale where good triumphs over evil?" She suggested. "I think we could all use one of those."
His eyes darkened a bit, "Aye. We could."
They all moved towards the fire again which burned brightly as night descended onto the forest. Lauriel sat down on a log and was glad to watch Legolas sit on the other half of the wood. Their arms brushed against each other and she felt a pleasant tingle rush up her skin. When he did not break the contact, Lauriel relaxed and allowed some of her weight onto him. Legolas simply looked down at her with a gentle smile but looked away when Boromir began to speak.
"Many years ago in my city there lived a man…" The Gondorian started his tale dramatically. While Lauriel knew the man to possess great warrior skills, his storytelling ability was just as impressive. He knew when to pause and for how long, his voice dropped or rose perfectly, and Lauriel watched in amusement as the hobbits were drawn into the tale to the point of hypnotism. It was a good story, but Lauriel could not help but feel distracted by the elf who sat close beside her. His presence was electrifying in a way she had never realized before. Then again, she'd been blind to many things. Now, it was as if a blindfold had been lifted and the world began to make sense again. She knew her name, where her loyalty lay, and thankfully, what her feelings were. As much as it may complicate her already hectic life, her feelings towards the blue-eyed elf were undeniable. As the story came to a close and the hero ultimately was victorious, Lauriel leaned over and whispered, "Meet me by the lake at dawn."
Legolas subtly glanced at her, his eyes full of curiosity, but still he nodded. Just as he opened his mouth, presumably to ask why, Boromir ended his tale and the fellowship clapped in appreciation. Politely, Lauriel faced forward again and joined in the clapping. As it died away, Lauriel stood up and saluted the group, "Thank you for allowing me to join. Enjoy your night everyone."
"You're not staying?" Pippin frowned, "Merry and I were about to share a story from the Shire."
"Really? Damn. I'd love to stay but I promised Tiriel I'd be quick. She'll have my head if I don't rest."
The hobbit looked alarmed at this, "Lady Tiriel? But she seems so nice…"
Lauriel grinned cheekily, "No matter what race, all women have a dangerous side. Beware master hobbit!"
Her warning made the others laugh and on that happy note, Lauriel said one last goodnight and left the clearing. Just as she began the climb up the nearest staircase she heard Gimli say, "Didn't I tell you she'd come to see you pointy ears?"
…
…
Sleep came easily that night and fortunately for Lauriel, brought no dreams with it. When she awoke, she lay in bed for several minutes staring contently out the dark window. Despite waking earlier than planned, she felt well rested. Eventually she climbed out of the bed and readied herself. She debated on bringing her bow and arrows, but decided against it. If Legolas required them in her training, they could always come back to retrieve them. In one of her most comfortable tunics, Lauriel quietly closed the door to her flet and stepped into the silent city. The magical lights were bright as always, their strange hue reminding her once again of starlight. Her footsteps were nimble and quick, carefully passing the homes of slumbering elves until she came to the edge of the lake.
The sun had yet to make any appearance, but Legolas already stood there waiting. He stood facing the water, his back to her and hands clasped together behind him. She knew he already heard her approach, but he made no indication of it as she drew closer.
"You're early," He said without looking back.
"Apparently not early enough. Did you even sleep?" Lauriel came to stand beside him and studied his face. There were no bags under his eyes or traces of exhaustion like she'd seen in Mirkwood.
Legolas chuckled, "Yes, I slept well. Did you?"
She nodded, "Slept like a rock."
He raised an eyebrow at the expression, but made no comment about it. He simply accepted it as another strange saying as he accepted many things. "Why did you ask me here?" He said after several moments.
"When we hunted, you offered to show me how to fight like you. I'd like to accept that offer if it still stands."
Legolas' expression brightened, "Of course it does."
"Great! Now where did you want to go? Would the training field suffice?"
"Are there trees there?"
"No, it is a clearing within the city limits."
"I would like to teach you how to use your surroundings, such as trees, to your advantage. They are quite useful for flips and jumps," Legolas explained. "Do you know of a space in the forest?"
"There's a small clearing off one of the paths. Come, I'll show you."
It was not a long walk and the path they traveled down was a popular one. In fact, the clearing she spoke of was often used for picnics or small gatherings. When they arrived, she watched as the prince studied the clearing.
"This will do very nicely," He said eyeing the nearby trees. They varied in size, some small enough for a child to climb with ease while others were tall with giant trunks. Legolas turned to her and said, "Now tell me of your training. You said it is different from my form?"
She ran her fingers through her freed hair and briefly described the martial arts and combat training she'd received. At the end she concluded, "I can tackle and wrestle, but ask me do backflip and I'll fail miserably."
"We shall fix that," Legolas replied confidently. "Now, let's first begin with a front roll…"
Several hours later and with many hilariously terrible attempts, Lauriel achieved a cartwheel and with Legolas' help, a very wobbly back flip. He had to stand with her as she did it, his arms pushing her torso to add to her momentum and catching her as she landed. It was shaky, but at least it was a start.
"One more," The prince directed.
"Okay." Lauriel crouched, making sure to keep her arms loose as her teacher instructed. Gritting her teeth, she forced herself to fight the natural instinct to keep her feet on the ground and pushed upwards. Her back arched as she flew up and backwards. Strong hands hovered over her back, applying just the right pressure to keep her flip on course and back at the optimal angle. Her vision was momentarily blurred by a wall of black hair, but her ponytail fell back into place as she braced and landed. Her feet planted firmly in the grass again, but her upper body struggled. Lauriel's arms flung out and she nearly fell over, but arms caught her.
"Steady now," Legolas said in amusement.
She clicked her tongue, "Damn. I really thought I had it that time."
"You were close. I barely had to help you that time."
"Except on the landing," She muttered.
Legolas released her. "I will admit, your landings still need some improvement."
"I'll keep practicing. What would you like to do next? You mentioned using the trees?"
"Well, I don't think I can teach you… More like show you." Legolas gave her a wry smile. "Think you're up to some tree jumping?"
She raised an eyebrow, "You didn't forget that I'm normally a guard here right? We live in those trees."
He laughed, "Alright. Would you like to wait until tomorrow? Or shall we continue?"
"If you don't mind, let's keep going." She twirled around, watching the greenery spin before her eyes. "I don't know… But I just woke up this morning feeling amazing. I just feel so… alive."
The blond elf watched, his blue eyes transfixed on the spinning elleth. Her black hair was fascinating to watch in the early afternoon light. It seemed to repel the sunlight, giving off a glow unlike any other he'd seen before. It seemed that everything, even her hair, about Lauriel rebelled against this world and yet… beautifully thrived. His features softened as she continued to spin, her head thrown back and soft laughter filling the clearing. It was a rare display of the playful, feminine side to Lauriel and Legolas was grateful for her trust. His feet moved forward before he could stop them and soon his hands were reaching out, stopping her spinning. His right hand fingers laced themselves through hers and his left hand caught her shoulder. They stood face to face and Lauriel froze as she felt his eyes search her features.
"Your eyes," He murmured. "They look different."
"T-They do?"
"They are brighter," He leaned in, his hand dancing over her skin and coming to rest on her neck. His palm was rough, the skin hardened by years of fighting and handling weapons, but it made her skin burn all the same. He seemed oblivious to her reaction to his proximity, attention focused on only her eyes. After a long moment, his eyes widened, "The Valar have strange ways."
"Why do you say that?"
Instead of answering her question, he asked his own. "Why did you choose the name Lauriel?"
"Because it sounded like my real-" She shook her head and corrected, "My old name. I will never forget who I was and it seemed wrong to abandon Lauren."
"Do you know what it means?"
"Of course."
"Lauriel… Your eyes are gold." He stared at her, waiting for her reaction.
"What?" She felt her fingers tighten around his and her free hand came up to her face, wishing she could hold a mirror. "In the sunlight you mean?"
Legolas stepped away, but did not let go of her hand, "There is a stream nearby is there not?"
"Yes, this way." She led him there, mind reeling at what he had just told her. Surely he meant her brown eyes looked golden in the light? He had known her when her dark, muddy eyes had complimented her tan skin. Her eyes had changed greatly since then, but remained undoubtedly brown. Legolas did not offer any more explanation as he allowed her to pull him along, not complaining at her rushed manner. They came to the water and Lauriel let go at last, kneeling by the creek and peering down. Although the water was discolored by the dirt and leaves, she could see her reflection well enough in the current to recognize that bright golden orbs, not brown, stared back.
"W-What?" Her voice came out hoarse. "That's not possible…"
Leoglas kneeled beside her, "Your eyes were not like this yesterday."
"I brushed my hair at the vanity last night," She whispered, still staring at her impossible reflection. "They were brown. Do you think anything else changed? Do I look paler to you?" Anxiously she twisted her neck to peer at herself from different angles. It was only then did she pay attention to her ears. "L-Legloas?"
"Yes?" He frowned, not understanding why she suddenly appeared terrified.
"Do my ears look strange to you?"
He looked to the ear exposed to him and tilted his head, inspecting it. "No…" He said cautiously. "It looks perfectly fine to me."
She sucked in a breath. It took only a moment for Legolas to finally comprehend and his eyes widened. Lauriel had always drawn attention because of her peculiar features. Her slightly tanned skin, barely tipped ears, and mortal curves had always separated her from the other elleths. The fact that her ears, now perfectly elongated and pointed, appeared normal was alarming.
"Has this happened before?" He asked, finally finding his voice again.
Lauriel stared at him, reminding him of a frightened child. Her eyes- now shockingly gold- were wide as she shook her head. "I changed while I was at Mirkwood, you saw that."
"Yes, but not like this."
"No," She agreed quietly, looking away. "Not like this."
He disliked seeing her doubt and fear. Legolas reached out and pulled the elleth to him, her head resting against his chest. "Do not be afraid mellon. It seems that the Valar have not quite finished with you yet, but I will be here with you."
"Too many things are changing," Her whisper was muffled. "I don't know if I can handle any more surprises."
"I know that it is a shock, but I do not think this is a bad change."
She pulled away slightly, enough to look up at him. "No?"
"No." He said simply.
"I don't look…" She laughed emptily. "I don't know, strange?"
Legolas lifted his hands so that they rested on each side of her face. "You Lauriel," He told her seriously. "Are the strangest creature I have ever met." She flinched and looked down, but his hands forced her to look up again. "But you are the most beautiful elleth I know. I cannot say what may change next, but even if began to grow horns next that would not change."
Her shoulders relaxed and Lauriel's mouth twisted into a smile, "Horns. Really Legolas?"
He smiled back, lowering his arms again. "I doubt the Valar mean to change you into a balrog next, but if they do, I mean it."
Lauriel gave him a wry look, "Why do you care so much? I have so many problems and yet, you're always here to help me."
"That is what friends do."
"Friends," Lauriel repeated the word slowly. "Do you also hold your other friends like this?"
The blond elf looked down and flushed. His arms were around her torso, hands coming together and resting against the small of her back. He held her close to him, their hips touching and faces merely inches away from each other. "Forgive me," He quickly began to loosen his arms and withdraw them. "I did not realize-"
"Legolas," She rested her hands on his arms, keeping them in place. "I am not complaining…"
They stared at each other and the elf scrambled to understand the implications behind her words. He stiffened, "You are not?"
Lauriel smiled softly, feeling a little embarrassed by the whole situation. She had never been a romantic and history proved she preferred a subtle affair, but Lauriel was a different person now. With a spark of courage, Lauriel extended her neck and lifted it upwards. Just before her lips pressed against his skin, Lauriel hesitated but the shocked elf did not stop her as she kissed his cheek dangerously close to his mouth. She let her lips hover, not wanting to pull away and see his expression in case it was full of disgust or anger. After a moment though, she forced herself to pull back and look.
His blue eyes burned, the color more vibrant than she'd ever seen before. Her heart began to thud wildly at the way he continued to stare at her. She couldn't tell how he was feeling, but when his fingers tightened around her, she felt horror creep into her. He was angry, she thought and started to wiggle out of his grasp. "A mistake," She muttered. "It was a mista-"
Before she could even finish the word, lips captured her mouth and Lauriel gasped as fingers suddenly pulled her forward.