Hello everyone! How is everyone doing? I feel like it takes me to forever to update these days. *sighs* Anyhoo, here we are chapter 54…I have a few announcements which I will make at the bottom of the story. So in the meantime…let's change it up at a bit with thanks at the top…
Thank you to everyone who reviewed, followed and fave'd, some of the reviews were particularly heart warming and I am so glad to have each and everyone one of you. So love and thanks to…
Zip001, fantasyfreak133, titemb-bm, Raider-K, KaraVanZa, xMizukiMidnightx, Caribbean Passion, BirdA, Spriggan, Siriania, TheMightyOkwaho, beachchick3, , moonlightkiss1515, kksambo, DeLacus, Jjuhl, foofie01, rosegold1996, PureAngelEyes, crazykenz, Lady Ravanna, SparklesJustReads, YAYAKitsune, gossamermouse101, Rodidor, EdenMae, purplexorchid.
Candi: I feel your excitement! Hehe…thanks.
Fan: Oh my gosh I know the feeling…life is just chaotic. Thank you for reviewing, and yea Galour deserved all he got.
Jurassic Jumanji: Worry not I have some an Ollie and Aradan update! And hope you enjoyed camp sans electronics.
Natasya Ivaskov: O.O I know, I understand!
Guest: Update hazzz arrived! *jazz hands*
Sam: Aw thank you :)
Emily: Yes it made sense, and thank you so much. As I said before that is the aim I was going for from the beginning and I am glad to see it eventually translating!
Guest: First of all…ouch…rude much? You don't just tell a writer what to do. If you want to see something I suggest you politely make a plot suggestion – which the writer may or may not take into consideration (although if you are nice about it the chances are they will). There will of course be a time skip, but not quite yet. The political set up of Thranduil's people are no more different than that of Elrond, with the use of councils to create a fair case of all peoples, with the final vote residing with the most senior position. Elves taught men in the beginning, and it is a common misconception to believe elves are entirely unrelated to men. Men and Elves in Tolkien's world are 'The Children of Illuvator' and are the only two races able to wed and produce offspring together. Elves are immortal, Men are not, both have their various pros and cons…they are not so different. In fact, Tolkien refers to the Nandor or Silvan elves as very like the Edain (men) in many ways. What you may be referring to his Noldor or maybe more so Vanyar ideals which might be more spiritual.
Person: Greeting fellow person, I just wanted to thank you for highlighting the true aims I have made for myself as writer with this story. The first being to move the Thranduil character from his youth to his maturity as a King, and similar to that of the Portrayal – by quiet arguably one of the brightest and most versatile actors around – Lee Pace gave of a complex ElvenKing character. Writing in first POV is not the easiest choice for me, and not a natural one, but I think I responded to one of the first reviews and said, that this was a story that would grow with the character – as she matures so does the narrative. But thank you so so much for those wonderful comments, its like finding out that I actually achieved my goals instead of hoping I did.
Leafygreen16: It may get a little better, then bad, then better…then…well you get the drift hehe.
Angela: *blushes* aw thank you!
Diannak: *waves* Hi! Thranduil didn't so much curse him, more he made him feel the pain of the many things he encountered. He projected his grief, and pain, onto an otherwise haughty and ignorant elf – like a vision if you will - so he could know for just a moment what the people have suffered so he could live freely. In short answer to your question; Elrond and Islidur were probably together on the battlefield, and Islidur's men knew Elrond led him into the fires…if Elrond came out alive and Islidur didn't…I am sure the men could assume the worst. Either way it would cause a war – besides Elrond is a good guy and half human, he isn't going to want to harm his kin – he would more try to reason…at least in my opinion anyway. Hope that helps
I hope I have not missed anyone out.
Honorable mentions of the month: HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROUSDOWER…TWO YEARS GIRL…CAN YOU BELIEVE IT? Some day we will run the world. With sabertoothed Capybaras.
***Warning: Some mature content at the end of the chapter: skip if it offends***
Chapter 54
"I am pretty sure I have some in here…now just apply it on the inflamed area…erm, where the muscles feel sore…sparingly of course, it's strong stuff."
Precariously balancing on the top ledge of a set of small ladders, I expertly rummage through the top shelf of my overstuffed, (and obviously disorganized), supplies cabinet. After a few close calls, in which I nearly nose-dived the ground, I find the jar of medicinal balm. It is basically the elvish middle earth equivalent to muscle rubs, and I am pretty sure my new patient will benefit from it. With a victorious smile I hop down the ladders and outstretch the small tub to a flaxen haired elleth, who has a gorgeous blue eyed elfling clinging to her brown skirts
"We cannot afford this," My patient, a tawny coloured ellon with the same matching blue eyes as his gorgeous son, sighs sadly and shakes his head. His wife glances nervously over him and places a hand soothingly on his shoulder;
"What he means is that we have nothing to offer in return for your service, my lady," She murmurs, chewing her lip and casting a warning gaze over her elfling, who is hungrily eyeing up the bowl of grapes on my table.
"I think fighting for our freedom in that Valar forsaken war is payment enough," I reply with a nod, as I slip around the desk and tap the surface for the elfling to join me. He does so without question, and as I help him up beside me I offer him the grapes. I grin at the adorable sight, as the kid happily makes short work of the rather large bunch. I run a hand through his soft curls and glance meaningful towards the anxious looking couple; "Besides, you need to keep yourself fit and well if you are going to keep up with this handsome fellow…how old is he?"
"He is in his sixth year," His mother blushes deeply, but her mate beams proudly and simply takes her hand in his.
"He was conceived before I left," He states without even flinching; "A piece of me, should I not have returned…or maybe another reason to fight harder to get home."
"And you did," I answer proudly, and beam down at the precious little creature by my side. To his parents he is surely a beautiful gift.
"Yes, but it might have been a different story if it wasn't for his majesty," The ellon bows his head for me, and I see the light of something close to awe or deep gratitude in his eyes. "Your husband, my lady, his strength and courage is that of ten thousand elven warriors. If he had not defended and took command of the front lines of that final battle, I would have been blown to Mandos Halls…in several pieces no doubt."
"Hush, don't talk like that," His flaxen wife pales, a frown line etching into her pretty pale brow. "My apologies my lady, he is not himself just yet. He speaks too boldly."
"Nonsense," I answer and wave my hand in a half hearted dismissive wave; "My husband would be greatly comforted to know that one of his own is safe and reunited with his family. I cannot wait to tell him this happy tale, I think it will do his heart some good."
"You tell him from not just me, but my whole battalion, that we owe him a great debt for his sacrifices. We Silvan do not forget such honourable courage," The ellon practically pushes himself off my examination table, though he still nurses the effects of a shattered body. I dread to think how many bones he had broken. He lowers into a bow and in a voice full of conviction adds; "My Queen, you ensure our new King knows of our loyalty and love."
"I will," I just about whisper as a little sob catches my voice. Clearing my throat I divert my gaze back to the elfling, and plant a kiss on his cheek, before helping him off the tabletop. I run my fingers through his touchable curls one last time and tell him proudly; "Your Ada is very brave little one, don't you ever forget that."
The child merely grins up at me before he bounces back to his mother who picks him up with ease. I bow my head respectively for the young family, and resuming my professional exterior again I show them the door;
"So take the herbs in your tea every morning as instructed, and use the balm only if the pains persist during the day or before resting at night." I list off my commands and then give his wife a sympathetic smile; "If he doesn't comply feel free to send him back to me."
There is an unanimous chuckle, and I watch with just a little hopefulness as the family saunter off into the Halls in their own little bubble of contentment. Part of me feels just a pang of jealousy, but only because they have the luxury of peace and privacy, whereas Thranduil and I do not but I reckon their troubles are not any less than ours. If only Thranduil could know the impact he has made on common lives, such as these. A husband was able to return to his wife and claim a son, all because just some of Thranduil's gambles on the battlefield paid off, that is nothing to sneer at. How many more have been able to do the same thing too? He really needs to remind himself of this, I think if he could just be among his warriors again he might just see a little more clearly. Well, it is an idea at least?
"Clara! Stop your dithering…don't you ever have work to do?"
That voice!
My head snaps to the sound, and my mouth pops open in time to let out an excitable squeak. Picking up the tails of my skirt I dance across the distance and throw my arms around him. I don't care if this unacceptable behaviour for a new Queen, this is my friend, my dearest friend…oh it feels like it has been a century since I last held him.
"Aradan!" I cry and squeeze him tightly; "I thought I would never hear your teasing again."
"Seriously? Is that all I will be missed for…teasing?" He feigns hurt as he rocks back from me and flashes me one of his daring smiles.
"Oh shut up!" I sob happily and collide with him again; "You know you are my family, stop ruining the moment."
I feel his arm wind around my back as he hugs me tighter in return, and I feel his chest rattle with a throaty chuckle. It is the absence of a stronger embrace that reminds me of his missing limb, and suddenly I am aware that maybe his cavalier attitude is maybe just a front. Yes, indeed, I do detect a resentment and a humiliation in his eyes when I step back to look at him properly.
"I was just going to call in on you and Ollie," I chirp, deciding it best to not poke at the subject; "but I guess this saves me the hassle, what brings you here?"
"Oh well now, apart from my love of the healing arts? Truth be told my wife made me," He raises an eyebrow and tilts his head behind him. I peer over his shoulders and see in the distance, my best friend and her Naneth arguing with a poor healer. Well, actually it is just Ollie gesticulating wildly to the poor soul, whilst Gilron is trying to pacify the situation. Aradan rolls his eyes and sighs; "My wife and her Naneth actually…you might be acquainted with their persuasive ways."
"Unfortunately I am," I smirk, as I step around him and wave madly for Ollie. When she eventually spies me she throws her nose in the air and tramps towards me with her poor wearied Naneth in tow.
"You are going to need to have a word with your healers Clara!" She snipes as she stalks up to me, pausing to give me a dramatic huff and wave of her hands before throwing her arms around me and muttering in my ear; "I don't like to be told the Queen is not taking audiences and that I have to wait…don't they know who I am?"
"Oliel!" Gilron scolds, and blushes scarlet when her daughter simply shrugs. "I am sorry Clara, this one has spent too long in the friendship of royal circles, she forgets her manners…and how others view her station."
"Firstly, your station is my family, so let us drop the formalities," I remind them all with an arched and unimpressed eyebrow; "Secondly, may I enquire as to why you have marched this poor ellon out of his home to come visit me, when I could have easily called with you?"
Before either Gilron or Ollie can answer, Aradan snorts and eyes me questionably;
"Because Ollie believes that you should have a look at my arm…or lack of one I suppose," He leans into me to whisper; "I think she believes you can grow me a new one."
"Oh Aradan…Stop it!" Ollie cries in exasperation, and I am almost certain there are tears in her eyes. I knew this would spell trouble; "I could care less that you only have one arm, stop implying that I am in some way repulsed. I wanted you to come here because I am worried…I want to know how to help you and I thought it would be easier if it was Clara, instead of some healer we don't know!"
"Alright, okay," I soothe gently as those tears start making their way down my best friend's cheeks, and Aradan begins to look a little less sure of his bravado. "There is no need for tears, or shouting, emotions are just a little high. So Aradan why don't you come with me first and we'll call you in when I've had a check at everything…okay Ollie?"
"Yes, I agree," Gilron interjects as she puts her hand comfortingly on her daughter's shoulders; "We shall go have a nice little stroll in the gardens."
There is a silent stare off between the couple, but eventually Aradan takes his wife's hand and squeezes it encouragingly. Ollie nods once, smiles, and then wipes the tears from her cheeks before taking her Naneth's arm and leaving us. With a nod of my head, I gesture for Aradan to follow me and he does with a much more sober aura.
I check him over, but I don't have great experience with missing limbs, at least not in this life. I guess the closest I have come to these sorts of injuries was probably in my old volunteer work, but all those memories seem like a lifetime ago. Like trying to pluck distorted and uncertain events from the very depths of your earliest memories - difficult and headache worthy. In fact sometimes I begin to wonder was that life real, or was this life real… it is a very peculiar sensation. Well, I guess I'll never truly get used to it.
I assume Aradan realizes I have slipped into a contemplative state when I don't attempt to hold conversation, mercifully he doesn't pry and leaves me to my work. There is not much to examine, the stump of his arm has healed well. The scar tissue is adhering nicely and he has good movement to the rest of the upper limb, so thankfully no other damage…or maybe elves just heal better? I assume that to be the case, because any mortal would have probably succumbed to the blood loss first.
"It looks good," I confirm my assessment with a positive bob of my head, as I set about redressing the arm in clean linen. Not that it needs it; it is merely just for sensitivity purposes. "I don't think Ollie needs to worry, just keep changing the bandages for a while until the skin becomes less sensitive."
"I told her that is all I needed," He tells me with a low voice, as he struggles with buttons of his tunic. I watch him for a moment, noting the determination etched on his features as he angrily fights with the garment.
"Here, let me help," I offer and begin to do up the buttons, much to Aradan's utter embarrassment, but I simply ignore the grunt of annoyance. "You know, I am pretty sure I could make something to help you do up buttons. Some sort of hook, I've seen them used in my old life. In fact, I am sure if you leave it with me I can try and come up with little adaptions to help…but only if you want my help of course?"
"I would be willing to listen to ideas," Aradan eventually answers me, with a timid voice, like he dares to hope; "A hook you say? Yes I can see how that might work."
"See, I'm not just a pretty face," I grin as I finish the last button, and clasp my hands to both his shoulders. The force of my sturdy grasp makes him startle a little and when he meets my narrowed gaze he fidgets slightly; "So are you going to tell me what is really up between you and Ollie, or am I going to have to wring it from you?"
"Ai Clara I do not wish to talk about it," He sighs and shrugs away from me; "There is little you could do, it is between us, and the fault lies with me, not her."
"Oh let me guess," I groan as I hop up on the table beside him and take his hand in mine; "You don't want her to see you like this; wounded, imperfect, and ugly? Your mind is not where it should be, and you're not exactly able to explain why?"
Aradan opens his mouth to argue with me, but he promptly shuts it and tilts his head thoughtfully to the side. I give his hand an encouraging squeeze before I continue;
"It seems to me this war was far more monstrous than even I, with my foreknowledge, could have anticipated. And I admit it is different when it is the ones you love that come home hurt, and you know there is nothing you will ever be able to do to fix it. I understand that your pain is very real mellon, for that was quite a life changing ordeal, but Aradan she is your wife. Take it from one who has been there, you can't do this on your own, and Oliel is willing to face it with you. She wants to help you overcome this strange new life, you should let her in. You never know, it might be a lot better than your last."
Aradan gives a strained chuckle as he drops his chin to his chest and observes his only hand. After a moment he shakes his golden head and finds his voice, which is now thick with unshed tears;
"Now I feel guilty," He grumbles, and peeps up to find me grinning warmly; "I suppose I never stopped to consider her part to play in all of this."
"No one does, we all tend to be self-centered when we're hurt," I confirm as I jump down from the table and prance over to my basket to procure a glass bottle of liquid. I stretch it out to my friend who takes it tentatively; "Don't worry; it's just a little something to help relax. I use it in my baths. May I suggest you do the same…and maybe Ollie can join you?"
"Clara!" Aradan blushes a deep crimson, and I cackle mischievously as I open the door and ask one of the servants to go fetch my dearest friend from the gardens.
"What?" I continue to smirk as I lean against the doorframe; "She is practically my sister, I can tell when she is frustrated. Listen, just be grateful your spouse isn't the heir…then you can really kiss romance goodbye."
"Ahh," Aradan gives a sly grin as he sidles up to me and raises an eyebrow; "You really do speak from experience don't you?"
"Sadly," I answer curtly, as I spin and jab a finger towards his chest; "And if I am not allowed to pry or ask questions about you and Ollie, then it is off the table for you too."
"Understood," My friend gives me a mock salute, before his brows crinkle into concern: "Is Thranduil okay, Clara? Is he coping? I know all about Galour's sentencing…that was a cruel awakening."
"He will be okay," I nod, but I know the panicked look in my eyes gives me away, so I attempt to divert my gaze; "He has just lost his nerve, he needs some time to recover his senses and not get too embroiled with the politics. I know that is sort of impossible right now, but if I could sneak him out of the city for a little while I would. Just a day, a few hours even, anything to lift the weight off his shoulders."
"Sneak who out? Where are we going?"
Ollie's chirpy and entirely curious voice has me bouncing back from the doorway, and clutching my chest in fright. My reaction is met with much tittering from Aradan, and a mischievous smirk from my Ollie.
"No-one is going anywhere meleth, Clara just wants to help our new King runaway for a day." Aradan snickers as he loops his arm around his wife and kisses her temple. Ollie draws her eyebrows downwards and considers the suddenly intimate gesture with detective level intuition.
"I can completely understand why he would want to," She tells me with a most displeased glare; "After that horrendous display with Galour…why if I could…I would drop a hornets nest on his head, and I would have no problem sticking a brandishing iron right up-"
"Aw, my wife, such an eloquent creature," Aradan teases, eyeing Ollie with a nervous look. She juts out her chin and raises her head haughtily in the air, as she returns to appraising me through half lidded eyes.
"Well, did my husband behave himself, or did you have as much trouble with his sarcastic mouth as I did?" She asks airily, before twisting around to scowl at a rather deflated Aradan. I simply roll my eyes at the scene; honestly I have never met such a stubborn pair…except maybe Thranduil and me.
"He had his moments," I chuckle and approach both my friends with an adoring smile, but direct my conversation to Ollie. "Physically Aradan is perfect, everything has healed up nicely. Yes, he may be missing a fully functioning limb but that means little. With a few adaptions, and a little patience, things will get much easier. I have already offered to help."
"Clara may be able to suggest a few small tools that could make life easier," Aradan interjects, as I nod vigorously in agreement; "She also shared a few anecdotes that made me consider my attitude."
"Then she did more than I could," Ollie sighs tiredly, but smiles for me nonetheless.
"You are doing plenty Ollie," I say firmly and take her hand in mine, as I tilt my head toward her mate, who's eyes are swimming with love and longing, but much like my own husband they are tempered by a greater sadness; "Just keep doing what you're doing…both of you. Go home, enjoy each other's company, take back the time that was stolen from you. Neither of you really got to enjoy your newlywed days. Time and laughter is really the only thing I can prescribe right now."
"That sounds like a plan we can work with," Ollie answers Aradan, as she turns into him and gazes up into his eyes with no small amount of hope. He nods in return, and it makes my heart swell happily when their foreheads touch and for a second I see a spark of understanding between them. It only makes me more determined to ensure I do the same with Thranduil.
I shoo the couple from my study, ignoring their pleas for me to join them for a walk in the gardens. As much as I would love to spend time with my two wonderful friends, I know the time they need to spend together is so much more precious. I promise the two of them that I will find a way to visit soon, even if I have to sneak out under the cover of night. This promise seems to pacify them and they leave without any further complaint.
As I watch them saunter off together, with no entourage or without the eyes of everyone in the room following their every movement, I sense that same jealousy tug at my heart. It is a petty emotion which I promptly deal with, as I lock it away and refuse to think over it again. However it isn't long until I realize I am not alone, and when I turn around I find Gilron waiting for me with outstretched arms. I run to her of course, and accept a warm and motherly cuddle. Sometimes it is just wonderful to be the one receiving the unconditional comforting hugs instead of dishing them out all the time. With a giggle, the elder elf kisses my cheek before wrapping her arm around my shoulders and guiding me away from the Healing Halls;
"I think you have done quite enough for today," She informs me with a warning look, so I know better than to argue. "I think I should see you home safely."
"That is most kind of you," I chirp happily as we stroll harmoniously through the great and echoing corridors; "It is not often I am awarded the pleasure."
"Yes, well I admit I have more than one purpose for doing so," Gilron smirks, as I peek questionably at her; "I need to retrieve my granddaughter, who I believe has taken up residence with your son and daughter…your maid Elbes said she didn't mind the extra mouth to feed. I apologise Clara, I should have sought permission."
"Oh nonsense Gilron I told you all before Tauriel is always welcome," I laugh casually as I wave off the concern; "besides she is absolutely no trouble."
"I appreciate that Clara, but things will begin to change around here and I am afraid that tongues may begin to loosen if my family are allowed to come and go freely with the monarchy." Gilron sighs, and gives me a saddened look when I frown. I attempt to argue my point but she quietens me with a motion of her delicate hand; "You cannot argue child, you know it is the truth. But, with all that said, you are still like a daughter to me and Thranduil - a son. I was his nursemaid for years, I lulled him to sleep as a baby, I find it harder than most to keep my distance from the boy. I want you to know that no matter this distance that must be upheld, I am still here for you both. I promised his Naneth I would look out for him when she left, and I it is an oath I do not intend on breaking."
I don't initially speak as we walk at a matched pace, I just let the words sink in. She is right; things will dramatically change around here. Oropher always allowed Thranduil a stretch of freedom that was probably more than others in his position would have received. I sensed it was mostly because Oropher wished his son to learn from the art of living, than to be misguided by duty and rank. It served him well, of that I am sure, but I suppose it just means the weight of the crown is slightly more restrictive than Thranduil, or even I, would be used to. Still, it is nothing we cannot overcome or work around…we have our wiles and our cunning ways.
"I suppose you are right," I eventually agree with Gilron, as I pick up the pace because home is within sight and I am very much longing to see my family; "It is just hard you know, especially with the events that just passed with Galour, and all his dark lies he spewed out about Thranduil's mother! Well, I think a few hours away from this place, to be among friends and family would do Thranduil the world of good."
"What lies did Galour speak of?" Gilron stops abruptly and narrows her gaze; "What did he say of Lassiel?"
"Oh it was venomous Gilron," I spit angrily at the memory, and glower at the ground; "He called her a wicked elleth, who tricked Oropher into binding with her, and the most horrendous was that she was a kinslayer, and that she and Oropher should have died in Doriath! It was vile, and Thranduil should never have had to be subjected to it."
"Oh that treacherous snake!" Gilron seethes, and I am abruptly taken aback by the fury that rolls over her usually passive features; "Heed my words Clara, for it has been long years since I have felt such hatred toward another. The Queen was no kinslayer, anything she did; she did out of love and sacrifice for her loved ones. Lord Galour is a liar, and if it was not for the courage of Oropher neither he nor his family would have escaped Doriath. He was always slippery, he always looked down upon Oropher's titles, but he claimed allegiance and loyalty when the Silvan sought to make Oropher their King. I thought it a farce, I always felt he knew he did not sit well with the Silvan chieftains, and the only way he could ensure he kept power and authority over them was by siding with their chosen leader."
"Sounds like Galour," I grumble and twist a strand of my hair around my fingers as I contemplate the statement. I suppose the ruin of Doriath still holds a bitter taste for Gilron and the elder elves, and it seems so much easier to not bring it up. Part of me considers that maybe Thranduil had been right to pry and ask questions, but I still stand by what I said - his parents did good in their rule here, there is no need to go looking for secrets that would change nothing. Still, maybe it would help ease his mind to speak with Gilron, to know for absolute certainty his judgement on Galour was fair.
"I think maybe Thranduil should hear you say that?" I muse aloud, and drum my fingers on my chin thoughtfully; "It means little when I speak to him about it, I wasn't there, I am not that old."
"There are some things he does not need to know, some things that would only hurt him," Gilron swiftly replies, and gives me a warning look when I peek curiously at her. I hold my tongue and ask no more, but simply wait for her reply to my request. Eventually she gives a soft laugh and nods her head as if answering an inward question; "You are probably right Clara, it would do all of you good to spend some time away from this place, and I would like to speak with my new King…if he still entertains old nursemaids of course?"
"I think he would be forever grateful for a familiar face," I remind her, trying vainly to suppress my glee at her acceptance of my request. "But how would we arrange such a gathering of friends and family without having to alert the elder council, and the guards, and half the Kingdom? Valar forbid the King not be escorted everywhere."
"Get used to it Clara," Gilron teases as she elbows my ribs playfully; "Once this reprieve is over you'll be lucky if you do not have servants dressing you in the mornings. I know for a fact Oropher had Raffyn bring him the morning's reports straight to his private chambers, sometimes before sunrise…It used to aggravate Lassiel so." The appalled look I give Gilron makes her chuckle all the more, but she rubs her chin for a moment in consideration, before finishing; "Technically Thranduil is not King yet, and this is a time of rest by his orders, so I see no reason why he shouldn't be able to accidentally on purpose go for an impromptu stroll in the woods…hmm, what do you think?"
"Yes, I see your logic," I grin deviously, and I feel my mood lighten considerably at the thought; "I mean it would be just completely a coincidence that we all went for a walk in the woods, and lo behold, there was a friendly gathering, that we would just happen to join in with?"
"Yes, because of course it would be rude for his majesty not to feast with his people," Gilron barely contains her gleeful giggle, as we lop up the steps to my home, ignoring the stares of some of the servants as we glide through the hallways.
"Well, if there just happened to be a little party, where would you imagine such a festivity to take place?" I query airily.
"Oh, well I believe from my daughter's home you can access a pretty little glen. It has a sweet little waterfall and plenty of space for energetic little elflings to play, and lots of shade to eat and sing around fires," Gilron states innocently, but I can see her eyes dance with plans. "It will be particularly lovely tomorrow afternoon, with the last of the summer heat and the coming colours of autumn."
"I think I should like to see it," I add flippantly, while Gilron gives me a knowing smirk as I dance up the corridor towards the voices of said energetic elflings. "And perhaps I shall."
"Indeed, you all would be very welcome there," Gilron adds playfully as she joins me by the doorway to one of our smaller lounges for the children. The two of us glance questionably at each other when we hear a mixture of voices and laughter. Confidently I rap the wood before briskly turning the golden handle and striding into the room, only to find…
Chaos.
Utter carnage.
That is what I am met with when I stand slightly aghast in the completely destroyed living room. Chairs and settees have been over turned, forts have been built, and right now I am pretty sure there is a camp in the middle of the room…shrouded in the sheets from my bed no less! I hear Gilron's sharp intake of breath, and then her terrible excuse for silent laughter, as I plant my hands on my hips and circle the devastation. The laughter emanating from the hastily assembled teepee structure has suddenly quietened to hisses and whispers of warning. When I stand before its entrance with narrowed eyes, I notice what looks like feet - which are much too big for an elfling's. Kneeling down I boldly snatch the fabric back and stare incredulously at the scene presented to me.
"I am hostage…this is a hostage situation…I am being held against my will," My dishevelled and slightly bleary eyed - but notably happy looking - husband explains, whilst gesturing to the three incredibly innocent looking culprits. Well, I lie, two innocent looking culprits, the youngest is actually looking quite pleased with herself.
"Uh huh?" I reply with a raised eyebrow, as I survey the remains of what was obviously their dinner mushed into the rugs…delightful. "And who is responsible for orchestrating the captivity of my husband?"
"Me! I am!" Celairiel throws both her hands delightedly in the air, and then throws herself over her Ada's chest as if to claim him. Thranduil just smiles indulgently, he doesn't even protest.
"Oh I should have known it was you," I mutter and point a scolding finger; "Celairiel your Ada is poorly, what did I tell you before I left?"
"You said not to disturb him, but I didn't Nana I-"
"She didn't wake me," Thranduil raises his hand in a peaceful gesture, cutting our daughter off and giving me a weary look, as if an argument is the last thing he wants; "I woke up and found them playing hide and seek…you know I cannot resist a good game of hide and seek."
"Oh alright," I scowl and cross my arms, because the four sets of innocent eyes all staring at me does not help my ability to stay cross. So instead I slide into the tent with them; "I see you all had dinner?"
"Yes, Ellie and Galion brought us supper." Legolas answers me and elbows Tauriel, who suddenly procures for me a slice of cake and smiles sweetly.
"For you, we kept you some," She chimes, and I gratefully accept the plate but point my finger accusingly at the sugary food stuff.
"That isn't what I instructed the cook to prepare for your suppers." I inform them, and the three of them slowly sidle their gazes to Thranduil. I narrow my eyes at my husband who feigns interest in his nail beds, before lounging back on the cushions, pillowing his head with his arm. "Thranduil…cake…really?"
"Hmm?" He lazily hums, before blinking up at me with faux surprise; "I am sorry, did you say something melleth?"
Quick as a flash I grab a free cushion and playfully thump it across his chest. This sets the children off in a fit of giggles as he rolls over to protect himself from my vicious attack. Their laughter only intensifying when we engage in a mild and half hearted struggle;
"I. Said. No. Cake!" I bleat in a fit of breathless sniggers and continue my pillow slapping. I only stop when Thranduil manages to haul himself onto his knees to restrain me. His arms still incredibly strong and iron like, as they wind around my shoulders, pulling me tightly against him. I feel his laughter reverberate through my chest warming my heart.
"I am the King…I say they can have cake," Thranduil reminds me with a mischievous glint in his shining eyes. His smirk widening when I scrunch my nose up in annoyance, and I know this teases him to lean to kiss me. So it is no surprise that when he does, the children howl and shriek in disgusted objection.
"Oh really?" I whisper when his lips are just an inch from mine.
"Yes, really," He confirms, his smirk turning into an out and out grin, when the children squeal in disgust at being trapped witnesses to this.
"Well, your majesty," I reply haughty as I smash the cake into his face; "I am the mother…so what I say goes in this house…you got it!"
The thunderous cheerful roar of delighted elflings' fills the room with such excitable energy, that even I begin to cackle deliriously at the cream dripping delicately from my rather disgruntled mate's nose. He rolls his eyes towards the ceiling, his long lashes lightly dusted with icing droplets. Blowing out a sigh, he shrugs, and then bounces at me and the children. The high pitched howls reach a deafening pitch as everyone tries to escape the tent, myself included. Alas I am caught, and get a rather soggy and crumb filled kiss, which make me splutter and gag in between rib aching bouts of laughter. The children are more successful, as they rush from their safety, which just so happens to be behind Gilron's skirts…except poor Tauriel. Tauriel is caught by the hems of her cream tunic and swung under Thranduil's arm as he makes a dive for Celairiel. At least Legolas has the good sense to deftly wield, what looks suspiciously like a handful of dinner rolls, which he is now tossing at his father like grenades.
"Grandma…Grandma…help me!" Tauriel wheezes out when Thranduil rubs cake mix into her cheek, playfully grabbing her nose, before releasing her to Gilron; who is so far past herself, that she is just shaking violently with silent laughter, tears streaking her rose petal cheeks.
"Alright, showtime is over everyone!" I command as I tiptoe guilty up to my husband and offer him a rag to mop off the rest of the mess on his face. "It is time to for bed, and Tauriel needs to get home," I chuckle as I lean down to scrub the elfling's delighted face, "Her uncle Aradan will be so excited to see her."
Tauriel shares an ecstatic grin with Gilron, as she slides her hand into her Grandmother's, whilst my two monsters protest loudly about their impending doom. I give them both stern looks, which settles Legolas but Celairiel only huffs and pouts unhappily, cementing herself to her Ada's leg. I sigh and return my attentions back to Gilron;
"You may apologise to Ollie on our behalf, I am afraid Tauriel may be a little hyped up this evening," I give a regretful groan, whilst shooting my husband a look of mock disapproval - he merely shrugs in response.
"Ah but sure it is worth it to hear some laughter in these halls again," She reminds us both, before lowering her eyes and kneeling to a perfect curtsy; "I missed my little Prince's laughter…it brings my heart joy."
"As I have missed you," Thranduil replies as he steps around me and envelopes Gilron in a tight embrace, that nearly pulls her onto her toes. She let's out little shocked gasp, but returns the hug with equal fervor.
"Oh child," She sniffs back thick sobs, as she tries to wriggle from his grip, and fans her tear stained cheeks; "Oh thank Eru you have come home to us. Oh, now look you have made me cry! This is not right, you are my King now."
"You are still family," Thranduil reminds her with a gentle kiss to her cheek, before he steps back and pulls me into his side, tucking my head under his chin. "If everything else must change, then promise me that fact will not."
"I shall promise you the same thing I promised your Naneth," Gilron murmurs through her watery smile; "As long as me and mine live, we will love and serve Oropher's House as it if were our own blood."
Thranduil doesn't speak, and I feel his chest constrict under my hand at the mere mention of his father. He simply bows his head, and turns his head away to conceal the emotion in his eyes no doubt. Gilron shares a meaningful look with me, and I quietly offer up a final goodbye before leading my husband back into the devastated lounge. Before I can utter another word I am met by two pairs of pleading eyes;
"Can we sleep here tonight…plllleeeeaaassseeeee," Both Legolas and Celairiel chime in complete unison. I am momentarily so impressed that I just stare in bafflement…do they actually telepathically plot their mischievous misadventures?
"We could camp out here, all of us," Legolas suggests. "And Ada can sing, and you can tell us stories…it will be fun?"
"Yes!" Celairiel bounces around her Ada, pulling on his sleeve excitedly; "Because I want to stay with Ada…please Nana?"
"Oh I don't know," I reply and chew my lip in consideration, because I really don't think Thranduil needs to be engaging in anymore frivolity. He needs to rest in a proper bed, and…and he is looking at me like he thinks this a wonderful idea…great! With a sigh, and roll of my eyes, I eventually consent with nod of defeated agreement.
"On one condition," Thranduil interjects the delirious cheering; "You both go clean up, and change for bed. I am not sleeping beside two smelly little orcs."
There is a unanimous echo of agreement as they dart from the room, and stampede down the hallway to do as their father bids. Honestly, how does he do it? I can shout, moan, nag, and negotiate all day long and they never listen. One word from Thranduil and they oblige entirely, I suppose it is true, absence does make the heart grow fonder…or at least more compliant…long may it last!
"You are aware there will be very little sleeping," I remind Thranduil, as I turn to throw more sofa cushions on the ground to make a comfier bed. "This is not good for your recovery."
"Stop treating me like one of your patients," Thranduil warns weightlessly as he comes behind me, wrapping his arms around my middle and suddenly pulling me into the scattered cushions on the floor.
"Thranduil!" I shriek, as he sniggers victoriously. He rolls me on top of him, and I gingerly attempt to not lean too much weight on his wounds. I flap and faff about, but to no avail…I am trapped.
"I feel fine, I am in no pain, I do not need to be fretted over like a cripple," Thranduil tells me sternly, as he clamps both his hands around my face, ensuring I do not pull away. He steals a firm and reassuring kiss from my lips, taking me a little by surprise, before settling me with a tender look; "Stop fretting…sleeping rough won't kill me."
I let out a soft chuckle as I let my forehead gently rest against his. He is right; I am forgetting that he needs to have this time with his family. I am forgetting he hasn't seen his children in well over seven years, and that they need to be with their Ada just as much he needs to be with them. I guess physically wounds mean little in this instance, and that I truly am overthinking all of this. I need to give him credit, he rode into Greenwood on horseback after a long journey, I am sure sleeping on a few pillows will be like heaven compared to those ghastly war camps.
"Okay, I will relent," I mutter in hushed tones, as I stroke his face with my fingertips; "It is nice to see you smiling again, after what happened earlier…how are you feeling?"
"A little foolish," He admits as he nestles more comfortably into the large pillows; "I did not mean to frighten you…I should have controlled myself better."
"There is nothing foolish about grief, that was healthy," I remind him, but his jaw tenses and he twists his face away from mine. I am not sure if it is anger or pain that fills his features, but I dare not ask for I do not want to drag his memories down a dark path, at least not now that he is much lighter.
"I do not wish to discuss it anymore Clara, do not bring it up again," Thranduil answers me coldly, and I just nod in agreement, for I did promise I wouldn't ask him to disclose anything until he felt he could. Instead, I press a gentle kiss to his lips, and slide onto my side so I can curl into him. This softens the chill between us and I feel him relax immediately.
"I have arranged for us to go for a stroll tomorrow," I casually say after a few minutes of silence; "In the woods…where we might enjoy some time with friends. But it may involve some stealthy sneaking out, because I have not actually cleared it with the council, or anyone else official."
"So technically you are taking a King prisoner," He laughs brightly, as he tightens his grip on my waist; "This truly is a hostage situation…although I am all too willing to oblige."
"Hmm, I thought you would," i grin and nuzzle into his shoulder; "Well don't worry; I am actually very good at sneaking. We shall just sneak you out and then back in, no-one will know."
"This is probably the best idea I have heard in a long time, and do you promise not to fuss over me?" Thranduil asks, a bubble of excitement sounding in his usually soft voice.
"I promise," I vow.
"Excellent, and do you swear to not utter the word 'King' for the duration of my captivity?"
"Wiped from my vocabulary."
"I am looking forward to this."
"Me too."
xXx
The sun is shimmering through the gaps in the brightly coloured leaves, creating a beautiful pattern of mottled golden greens and dazzling damson, all gleaming like a backlit dream. Truly the forest feels like it is celebrating, like it has waited patiently for this day just as much as I have - to walk among its splendour with Thranduil at my side, and my children in the distance, with carefree voices so filled with joy. It feels like a perfect dream, like one of those moments in my life that I try to soak up, just so I can remember it for always.
Today we are just an elven family, like we always are when we retreat into the woods. The forest and its inhabitants are not interested in titles or responsibilities, it only demands respects and that is something Thranduil has in abundance for this wild world. It feels like the forest knows this, it seems to hum melodiously, like a happy sigh at the sight of one of its own returning. The happiness and lightness that excludes from the very roots of the trees is infectious, and it does the desired trick in lighting the darkness in my husband's shadowed features. I was right to steal him away; we were all right in giving him this moment of freedom from all that weighs him down.
We escaped in the morning, with the use of the servant's exits - which I can still successfully navigate. It was something of a comedic prison break. Thranduil faked some kind of injury related fatigue, which was so well acted that several of the noble elves insisted he extend his rest until the following morning. Gallon was harder to convince, but I managed to send him on a wild goose chase for a number of roots and herbs that do not exist. I imagine that will keep him busy for the remainder of the day. Once we had cleared our home of anyone that would be suspicious, we dressed down, we stole food from the pantries, and we left like extremely stealthy thieves…and I am pretty sure the children loved every minute of the theatrics.
We made it to Ollie's homestead further out in the mouths of the caves, were she has a path that leads to the forest, and as promised a stunning little glen. Olban's extended family had grouped together, so by the time we arrived there was quite the happy gathering. Gilron and Olban's sisters had put on the most scrumptious spread, whilst the ellyn had taken to breaking out the instruments, adding such an infectiously joyous mood to the already singing forest. Yes, there was much to grieve for war had taken its toll on everyone, but for the moment there was reason to celebrate, reasons to be grateful…and celebrate we did. For a few happy hours we talked with friends, we ate casually, and sang songs in merry tunes. The children played around us, and everywhere we looked there appeared to happy faces, relieved to be reunited with long absent loved ones. After the meal ran its course, Thranduil and I slipped into the wood to walk in peaceful company, enjoying the simplicity of the day.
"You did not have to go to this trouble," Thranduil sighs contentedly by my side, one of his hands wrapped loosely around mine, the other outstretched to brush the long fern leaves that tickle us as we pass their way.
"It was not intended to turn into such a party, but it seems we just cannot help ourselves," I reply with a lighthearted giggle as he gently pirouettes me to the tune of a distant melody. "Any excuse to sing and dance."
"Yes," He smiles, such a peaceful and genuine smile that I could praise the Valar for being able to reach him. It feels like he is himself again, or at least part of himself.
"So what do you want to do?" I ask brightly as he pulls me into him to dance in a slow circle, humming slightly to the music playing just beyond the trees that hide us from the gathering.
"You mean apart from run away?" Thranduil answers airily, but laughs loudly at the strained look I give him. Pulling me close, in time with the beat, he places his lips to my ear and whispers; "Only for a little while, I promise I will come back."
"You would run without me?" I give a breathy sigh and lean into his silk voice, enjoying how his palm feels against the small of my back as we sway. I feel his lips twitch into a smile - or maybe a smirk - against my ear, and then he takes me off guard by kissing me tenderly on the crook of my neck.
"But I am your prisoner for the day, am I not? I expect you would have to hunt me down if I ran. I expect you would have to follow me?" The teasing lilt in his voice encourages a bubble of delighted laughter to escape my lips, and all I can do is nod in agreement to his statement. He plants another firm kiss to my lips unexpectedly, but before I can react he pulls away from me and raises an eyebrow challengingly;
"Good…well let us hope you are fast enough," He chuckles darkly, and I balk at the suggestion, he can't be serious?
"Thranduil…no…love, what are you doing?" I cry breathlessly and step towards him, but he ducks out of my way and lunges for a tree. I snap my head upwards, and wave my arms in warning; "You can't climb it's not good for you…Thranduil? We can't leave the children…and everyone will be looking for us. Thranduil…come down!"
"You are stalling meleth, you know you cannot catch me," Thranduil sniggers tauntingly from somewhere above the canopy, and I scowl furiously at the fluttering leaves; "And stop fussing, you promised you would not fuss…you sound like an old hen…what happened to my obnoxious little star? Did she get old and boring in my absence?"
"Now just you wait a minute! The only one old and boring here is you," I accuse and plant my hands on my hips. He just called me an 'old hen' oh I am going to kill him! "You are like…what? Three thousand years my senior, you should be sprouting a bread soon…maybe some grey hair too."
There is a whoosh and a light thunk, as an acorn hits my shoulder. I flinch and mouth an 'ouch' before glaring indignantly at the treetops.
"I resent that," I hear my husband's disgusted voice, and it sounds like it is getting further away. "Are you coming or not?"
"I cannot leave the children Thranduil!" I shout up into the trees, but when I get no reply I frown and gather he is long gone. "Thranduil? Really? That is great you just take off, leave me here!"
"Clara, my lovely, who are you talking to?"
I gasp, leap, and spin to find Ollie laughing unashamedly at me, her cheeks flushed pink from some sort of gleeful exertion. Her beautiful mahogany mane is loose and wild about her face, and she looks altogether relaxed. I open my mouth, and point upwards, then shrug furiously;
"He left…he just ran away expecting me to follow!" I snap, and she bites her lip to suppress a snigger; "He must have gone and hit his head, he forgets some of us have responsibilities…two actually… and I can't just go swanning off whenever I like."
"Clara?"
"And for the record," I continue, whilst pointing my finger threateningly; "He is injured, he should not be tree climbing let alone running, he is going to hurt himself."
"Clara?"
"What?" I cry and flap my arms in an irritable motion, making Ollie erupt into giggles, only furthering my irritation.
"Clara, you are not the only one trying to heal people," She smiles warmly and tilts her chin back towards the glen, to the sounds of laughing children. "Aradan and I have the children…my idiot of a mate is playing water knights with Celairiel on his back, my brother has Tauriel, and Legolas is the evil water snake attempting to scupper their chances of finding some sort of hidden jewels. Honestly it is quite elaborate, and Aradan gets to play a horse…with a missing leg…which apparently makes him magic. And you think you have problems?"
"Oh…so…you are watching the children?" I query, just to ensure I am following correctly.
"As per Nana Gilron's express orders - she told Thranduil to take you for a stroll, did he not mention that?" Ollie asks calmly, but a knowing smirk spreads across her face.
"No, he did not?" I mutter and peer questionably up into the trees. "I suppose he thought I would find an excuse to prevent him from over exerting himself."
"Well," Olllie chuckles and crosses her arms; "maybe you should open your ears and listen to him for a change…some healing isn't physical." I blush deeply at her statement, but she merely smirks and turns on her heel to trot back to the festivities, leaving me to ponder where on earth my husband disappeared to.
Turning towards the woods, I pad timidly barefoot across the earth. Pushing the thick overgrowth and ferns out of my way, I narrow my eyes and breathe in deeply. Suddenly it becomes quite clear just how disjointed we are. I used to be able to follow him, I used to know in the very roots of our bond where he was, and now I am floundering…or am I? I think maybe I am just wearied, and therefore have allowed our bond to wane - Ollie is right, I'm not listening to him. For if I was listening I would have surely heard the gently pull of his spirit with mine, encouragingly nudging me forwards, and begging me to follow. So for the first time since he has returned to me, I listen, not as a healer, or a soon-to-be Queen, or even as a wife…I listen like an elf, waiting to hear the call of her mate and respond.
I feel free as I run, my pale green chiffon dress turning to tatters as it snags on the bark of the trees that I climb, or catches on the rocks I vault over. My toes dip into cool water, or squelch through sodden earth. My hair catches on the breeze, with leaves twining in the knots that easily form, making it even more wild and untamable than it already is. I push myself, I run faster and harder, I lift the restraints of all the various titles I hold. For a brief period of escapism I am just Clara, and that is such a wonderful thought that it makes me giggle breathlessly. Thranduil is right, it is good to run just for a little bit…good for the elvish soul.
My hunting leads me to a breathtakingly serene glade, somewhere inconsequential in the depths of Greenwood. It is so lusciously green and vibrant, that I instantly slow and spin around to blink upwards at the leafy canopy with its sun speckled light. The grass is tall, at least to my waist, and as I wade through it I let my palms brush the ticklish blades. The breeze barely seems to disturb the great trees here, or else they protect and shelter this little pocket of beauty, either way it is stunning. I feel so rooted here, my spirit is actually tingling with life, like the forest feeds it. I breathe it all in. I lap it up and store it deep down in my soul, this is healing. This is exactly what a little wood elf needs.
As I sway and spin in free circles - completely forgetting my reasons for travelling here in the first place - something tugs at my heart. A song fills my fea, and it is just as deliriously content as mine, in this world so far from the realities of our situation. In a moment I cease my joyful dancing to spin in the direction of a heavily laden willow. A willow so tall that it takes up the expanse of the glade, its long and sweeping branches teaming with thick leaves, so thick that I can barely see behind its green curtain. But then I see it, the briefest flash of platinum hair and the lightest laugh. I pick up the hems of my dirt stained dress and bound towards it.
I weave between the willow branches, chasing him until I catch him by the wrist. I pause him, and when he turns to face me, his features are so lit up and relaxed, I find myself completely transfixed. Not because of his beauty or for his strength of spirit, or for the very fact that when he is happy his mood is utterly infectious - I pause because for a moment I see a King. Not just any elf King, but a woodland King, and for a moment I am in awe…he is exactly how I imagined him.
The branches of the willow have fallen over his shoulders, and in some way - as he has poked his body through the gaps - some of the twigs and leaves have settled on his brow. He is crowned, and he doesn't even know it. The strong sunlight only extenuating the glow off of his features, illuminating his silvery blue eyes so filled with a wiser more ethereal being than the one I stumbled upon in a healing chamber all those moons ago.
"What is it?" Thranduil asks quietly, his voice still light and humour filled, but I see his brows crease in worry.
"N-nothing," I stammer, as I step closer to him with all my wide eyed dreamer wonderment. He gives a soft but mirthful laugh as he steps closer to me, his momentary crown falling away, but not detracting from the majesty of the image in the slightest…at least not to me.
"You look like the forest made you," He chuckles as he pulls me into the hidden depths of the willow, behind its thick curtain. "Like a creation of Yavanna herself."
"Maybe I am," I chuckle breathily as I melt into his arms, forgetting for the moment that I should be careful.
"It suits you," He whispers quietly before lowering his lips to mine and kissing me so deeply, and so tenderly that I altogether surrender to him.
I am not so sure how it all started, how the wilful desire to be connected to him again became so suddenly apparent. I could blame the wildness of the wood and its nature thrumming in my very veins. I could blame the heat of the summer air, or the wonder of my imagination at seeing my mate in a new light. I could have reasoned a great many things, but the truth was that it just happened…it was our time. Hidden in the long grass, using only the deep green cloak my husband had worn, obscured by the great leafy barrier of the willow, we made our bed.
I relented to his demands; I let him take the lead over better judgement. Thranduil was as careful and as gentle as always; taking time to relearn all of me again. It wasn't long until he had kissed every last inch of me, his heart beating in rhythm to my own as we became so entwined with one another that we forgot were one us began and the other ended. At last his hands drifted up the curves of my hips, his thumb massaging the dip of my pelvis, the other hand pushing the fabric of my dress out of the way.
"Wait," i murmur, feeling the direction of his mind and knowing his intention; "Are you able for this? I can-"
"I am able," Thranduil answers me in a voice barely above a fluttering whisper, his tone so aching that I find no words to argue. His lips latch to mine as he settles himself above, his weight against my shivering body, reminding me of how long it has been.
"I have missed you," I babble, almost incoherently, as I feel the beginnings of our wounded fea begin to knit together. The flame like essence of his spirt licking at the parched fragments of my own, and suddenly I sense that I am coming alive again…that my light is beginning to burn as it should.
"I am here, I am not leaving again" He soothes quietly as our bodies begin to meld, my eyes flying open to watch how his face relaxes in the moment we are joined. His breath hitches, and he lets out a pleasurable moan as I raise myself to meet him. I feel his spirit slice through mine like a burning arrow, cauterizing our once parted and wounded spirit. I cry out in joyous agony, and throw my head back, my hands knotting in the grass.
"Thranduil…I…wh-what are you?" I gasp out and writhe against the intensity of his passion. I feel like i have been set on fire, like I am burning with such fierce energy that I could combust at any second.
"Hush, be still meleth…let me in," Thranduil sighs in-between pleasurable pants, as his fea mingles and tangles ever more deeply with mine.
His hand captures one of mine and places it around his neck, while he calms me with a lingering and burning kiss. When he pulls away, our eyes meet and I feel a surge of that burning energy move me. Suddenly I understand, he is healing me, in the only way he can - by returning to me what he took. He is feeding my fading life force with his, making it spark and light up with our bonding. Once I register this I relax into him as he commands, and take complete pleasure in feeling the broken shards of ourselves be heated and reshaped under the fire of our love for one another. Together we fit again and that is the most amazing sensation i have ever felt…we are truly reunited.
Our reunion is not long lived, for it has been many years, but in that short expanse of time it was the most intense love I have ever experienced. The passion so raw that it leaves me utterly spent, and Thranduil is neither fit nor strong enough to endure either. So with his body stretched across mine, in the peace of the glade, with only our pulsing bond to focus on, we rest together. There are no disruptions, no duties, no emergencies to attend to. We can just lie still and bask in the joy of being together.
Just two elven lovers…just two common place woodland beings, all bound up in the spirit of the wood.
At last…felt like that reunion was taking forever…next up...a party?
Okay I said I had a few announcements…
1) After persuasion, much patience, and a lot of encouragement I made the full transition to Wattpad – leave your thank yous with Rousdower and Raider-K – they be on there too. They showed me why and how I was doing it wrong. So I now write under CJ_Callahan90.
2) Since I am new to the Wattpad universe, *removes cap and looks forlorn* would any of you on ff who live there too, like to add me…or my story? I would also really like to be recommended stories to read and people to follow…if you find me I will be so excited I will probably follow you back – social media amazes me.
3) There is a bonus if you do so happen to be on Wattpad and find me. I have – after a discussion with Raider-K – released a surprise companion for 'To Live Again.' Due to my ongoing upload problems to ff, I have published it on Wattpad. However it was my intention to release it here as a 2k celebratory gift…so hopefully that will happen soonish. But if you are already on there…and like me have no patience and you want to read the surprise…add me and you'll know the gift when you see it :)
4) I made a terrible mistake on the last chapter update…I referred to my friend Lizzie Ace's story wrongly. The title of her ah-maze-ing twilight fanfiction is "The Feeling" not the The Feeing as a stupidly put it…and because I literally only have one shot at uploads I couldn't change it. SO APOLOGIES EVERYONE…GO READ "THE FEELING" it is superb!
And that is all folks…please R&R…it makes all the difference, I can promise you that. All my love CJ.
