A/N: So, here's another chapter today. If I can get this one finished, then all that's left is the epilogue, and we are done with this story. Maybe I can get it finished today! I guess we'll see! Anyway, this chapter is completely devoted to Avorneth. I figured after everything that she has been through she needed a chapter all her own. I think you'll like it, as I included a few cameos from characters we all know and love from the Silmarillion. After this, it's the epilogue, and I hope to have it finished by the end of the day.

Please read, review and enjoy, and I hope to see you for the next story. The epilogue will have more details about it, so please check it out. See you then!

Avorneth was amazed and awestruck. Whatever she had been expecting the Undying Lands to be like, her expectations had been exceeded. She hadn't been able to imagine this, and they hadn't even arrived at the harbor of Tirion yet.

But she was already amazed at what she saw.

She had heard stories about Tirion from Lady Galadriel, but the great city of the Noldor still filled with her awe as they sailed closer and closer. The green hill of Túna was sheltered in the valley of Calacirya. The shimmering white walls and terraces were visible from even this distance, and Avorneth couldn't help but wonder if the sand was really grains of diamonds or just something her lady had dreamed up to make her stories more interesting.

As they drew closer to the harbor, Avorneth could see a great many ships docked at the harbor. A few were like the one they were sailing on, but the others were different. They had clearly been crafted by either the Noldor that lived in the city or the Falmari in Alqualondë. Looking beyond them she could see the silver lantern in Ingwë's tower, Mindon Eldaliéva, in the city center. Below that she knew the house of Finwë stood, likely mostly empty now with he and two of his sons dead and most of his grandchildren lost to Middle-Earth.

That great house had suffered much throughout history.

The sounds of the harbor eventually reached their ears, and Avorneth turned to Dimethor next to her, "It sure sounds very busy."

Dimethor nodded, while the ship captain said, "It is not every day that ships from Arda come to Tirion. Most stop at Tol Eressëa, where their passengers move to smaller ships for the journey to Aman proper. But with horses, a deer, and an elf desperately in need of Estë I decided to come here directly," he turned to Avorneth and smiled, "Elves from Arda carry news about what is happening there, and word about friends and kin still on the Dark Shores, as they are called here. Half the city will be at the harbor, hoping to see or hear about friends."

The captain was called away then, and Avorneth went back to watching as the harbor came closer and closer. As the ship captain had said, there were already elves gathered there; and looking amongst them Avorneth was surprised when she spotted a familiar face. Judging by Dimethor's quickly drawn breath he had seen it too.

How had she known her husband was coming?

Avorneth went back to scanning the crowd but didn't see anyone else she recognized. At the sound of the ship crew starting to get lines ready she moved away from the side, allowing them room to work. By then the ship was in the harbor and had been guided to an empty mooring place. Sailors on land grabbed the lines that were tossed to them and secured the ship while the crew secured the masts and tended the rigging.

Only once that was finished was a gangplank attached to the ship.

A few sailors from Aman climbed aboard, looking around before the one that seemed to be in charge addressed the ship captain: "We were not expecting a ship from Arda. Most do not come here."

"I bring horses," the captain said, "As well as an elf badly wounded and desperately needing Lady Estë's care. I decided sailing here directly would give him the best chance," nodding at the elf in question. He still lay unmoving under the blankets and bandages, and the captain added, "He is a good friend and a strong warrior, but he desperately needs healing from Lady Estë. I didn't want to wait longer than necessary."

The sailor nodded, "It is not our place to judge your motives. We were only curious."

The captain nodded as well, "We need to get him to Lady Estë in the Gardens of Lórien."

"A carriage will be arranged," the sailor said, "And in the meantime, he will be tended by the healers here to make him more comfortable."

As this was happening Avorneth had wandered back to the side of the ship and sat down, watching the people on the dock below. A few looked back at her in interest, but she still didn't recognize any of them. Movement she sensed behind her caused her to look back, and she watched as the wounded elf was gently carried down the gangplank and taken away, likely to healers. The elves gathered there cleared a path for the stretcher, some murmuring in sympathy at the sight of the bandages around his eyes and elsewhere on his body.

As the stretcher disappeared from sight, the sailor asked, "How many horses are here? Can they walk down a gangplank?"

"There are three horses," the captain replied, then raised an eyebrow, "And a deer. All can handle the gangplank, although the deer may need some help. I don't think she has ever encountered a ramp before she decided to come on this journey."

The sailors from Aman couldn't contain their surprise and laughed. Once they had calmed one asked, "Are you serious?"

The captain only smiled and looked pointedly behind them. They all turned to look and were surprised at what they saw.

A lone she-elf sat on the railing, looking out at the harbor and the elves gathered there. She was blonde with blue eyes, and standing next to her was a doe. She was stroking the doe's neck gently, and the doe was resting her head on the she-elf's thigh, gazing at her with liquid-brown eyes full of love and trust. Sensing their stares the she-elf turned to look at them, and their hearts twisted in pain when they saw the broken look in her eyes. This she-elf had been broken by Middle-Earth and was here for healing.

"The horses are ready to disembark," the ship captain's words drew them back to him, "They likely want to stretch their legs."

The sailors nodded, but before they could move another figure climbed aboard. He was tall and blonde, with piercing blue eyes, and he carried himself proudly. A circlet rested on his head, decorated with diamonds and opals, and he was dressed finely in a silk shirt and tunic, well-made trousers, and knee-high black boots.

"My lord Finarfin," the lead sailor said, "It is an honor," bowing low, as did the other sailor of Aman.

Finarfin raised a hand, "I didn't mean to interrupt. I was hoping to hear about my daughter, but it seems she is not here. Please continue on."

The sailors nodded and bowed again before walking away with the ship captain. Finarfin, king of the Noldor of Aman, turned away then but stopped when he saw Dimethor and Avorneth. Curiosity passed briefly over his face, and he walked over to them. Dimethor bowed to him, while Avorneth only bowed her head, unable to stand as her doe wouldn't let her move.

Finarfin smiled at the sight of the doe, then asked, "You are from my daughter's realm, are you not?" at the surprised looks on their faces he added, "Elves from the Golden Wood have a way about them, as if they are calmer and more at ease in the Undying Lands. I assume it is because my daughter speaks to them about what to expect when they arrive."

Both elves nodded, then Dimethor answered, "Yes, we are, my lord. I was a captain in her service, and Avorneth was one of her handmaids."

The king looked at him carefully, and Dimethor didn't break eye contact as the king evaluated him before asking, "How is she? I have not heard much since my granddaughter was brought to Aman, but even then she did not say much before Lady Estë's handmaids came and took her to the Gardens of Lórien for healing."

Avorneth hesitated, "She misses her family, but is still not ready to depart Middle-Earth. There is still much for her to do in Arda."

Finarfin smiled slightly at that, "That explains much. Would you be willing to join me and my family for lunch? Her mother is eager for any word of her daughter, as are the rest of our family. Eärendil also promised that a story came with you two when last we spoke and he had finished his nightly watch of Middle-Earth if you were willing to tell it."

Avorneth hesitated again, and was saved having to answer by Dimethor, "Perhaps tomorrow, my lord? It has been a long journey and we are tired. My family waits on the pier, and I would like to greet them."

Finarfin nodded, "Of course, I am being insensitive. Go be with your families. My invitation still stands, whenever you are ready."

"Thank you, your majesty," Avorneth said softly, "I will come as soon as I can," Dimethor did not say anything, and Avorneth could only guess he wasn't entirely interested in dining with the Noldor king. Finarfin seemed to realize this and only raised an eyebrow before he said, "If you do not wish to come, you do not have to. I am certain your family would much rather you be with them."

Dimethor did answer then, "Yes, my lord, they would. It has been many centuries, and the news I bring is something they will not like and will want me to be there with them as they process it."

Finarfin smiled and nodded, understanding some of what Dimethor was talking about before walking down the gangplank and disappearing into the crowd for a few minutes before appearing next to an impressive gray stallion that snorted and shook his head as the king mounted. The king rode away then with his guards, and Avorneth and Dimethor looked at each other before going to help with the horses.

Faelher's stallion went down the gangplank easily enough, as did Dimethor's. Nightwind, however, needed some more encouragement, but eventually, she was on the pier. The doe refused to even try the gangplank, and so one of the sailor's carried her down onto solid ground. Once on all four feet, she nuzzled the sailor on the cheek in thanks before immediately going to Avorneth. Avorneth smiled at the deer and stroked her neck, her other arm around Nightwind's neck. The mare was watching all the activity with interest, curious about everything.

The others that had journeyed with them had already left the ship with their belongings and reunited with family and friends, leaving only Avorneth and Dimethor after the crew had dropped off their belongings on the dock. Avorneth nodded to the captain in thanks, and he nodded in return before leaving to give them some privacy. Most of the crowd had left as well, and Avorneth was glad of that.

Dimethor and his wife and daughters had reunited, but his wife knew something was wrong immediately. She asked him something, but because of the wind that picked up suddenly, Avorneth couldn't hear it. Dimethor did though, and he answered.

His wife stared at him in shock, then sank weakly to her knees. Tears came to her eyes, and then she was crying, as were her daughters. The elves still gathered there immediately left, leaving them there to grieve in peace and without an audience.

But two elves stayed, and Avorneth stared at them for a long moment before racing into the arms of her parents, tears coming to her eyes as well. Her parents only held her close, already knowing the reason for her pain; at least, most of it.

The rest of the story could wait.

The next day things had calmed slightly. Faelher's mother and sisters were still devastated, but they had been able to listen to the entire story of what happened over the last few years in Middle-Earth. Avorneth's parents listened as well; and only the fact that they couldn't return to Arda kept her father from wishing to go back and make those that had hurt his daughters pay for their crimes. In the end, only the knowledge that the elves of Middle-Earth had taken care of the problem calmed the anger felt in the room.

They were all staying in a house that Finarfin had lent them. After the tears had finally slowed and they could all walk steadily once more, a porter had appeared. He had only said that his king insisted they stay as his guests until they were ready to leave. All their belongings had been brought there, but Dimethor's wife said not to unpack. They lived in the forests of Oromë now, with other wood-elves, and they would not stay for long in the city. Even Avorneth had agreed to that, and they would leave in a few days.

But first, her parents insisted she honor her agreement with Finarfin. She didn't want to, but her parents thought it would be for the best, and it would put Finarfin and his wife Eärwen at ease. Dimethor didn't want to go, and his daughters wanted him to stay with them and talk with them, and so Avorneth found herself being outvoted and convinced into going to the palace.

She had agreed, reluctantly, which was how she found herself leaving the house and walking in the direction of the palace. Her doe wanted to come along but she was able to convince her to stay behind and graze in the house's gardens. The horses were grazing there as well, and Avorneth knew the doe would have plenty of company. She had walked quickly to the palace after saying farewell to her doe, knowing she was likely late.

She usually was.

When she arrived at the gates the guards let her in immediately, and then one led her into the palace. Apparently, Finarfin had let them know she was coming and what she looked like. She followed the guard, marveling at the high ceilings and beautiful artwork. The guard had to stop a few times to wait for her, but waved away her apologies, "The palace is beautiful, and many often stop to admire it. Lunch has not started yet, and it is a small affair today. The king thought you would not like dealing with many people today."

"That was thoughtful of him," Avorneth said, "Do you know who will be there today, by any chance?"

The guard thought a moment as they resumed their walk, "The king and queen surely, and perhaps a few of their closest family and kin. I can't think of anyone else who may be there."

"Thank you," Avorneth said quietly, feeling the letter in her pocket. She hoped Gil-galad was one of the kinsmen there.

She truly didn't want to burn Círdan's letter.

By now they had arrived at the smaller dining hall, and the guard asked Avorneth to wait a moment while he went inside. He came back out a moment later and beckoned her in. She did so quietly and hesitantly, the guard's encouraging smile not truly giving her the confidence she felt she needed.

There were several elves there already and they all looked at her when she entered. One of them broke away from the small group gathered and walked over to her, smiling as he said, "Welcome, I am Finrod."

Avorneth smiled and curtsied as she said, "Thank you, I am Avorneth. It is a pleasure to meet you, my lord."

Finrod nodded, "It is a pleasure to meet you as well, Lady Avorneth. My father says you know my sister, Artanis?" leading her over to the elves gathered there. There were mostly she-elves and a few elves, and they all smiled and nodded in greeting which she returned.

"She only answers to "Galadriel" now, my lord," Avorneth said quietly, "I have never heard her use that name the entire time I was in her service."

"I see," Finrod said, while a she-elf asked gently, "Finarfin said you journeyed here with one who is of Avari-kind," at Avorneth's wary look the she-elf laughed gently, "Peace, I don't mean to offend. I am just curious as to why."

"As are many of us," a familiar voice behind them said, and they all turned to see that Finarfin and Eärwen had entered, followed by a dark-haired elf that Avorneth thought looked slightly familiar.

Avorneth almost curtsied again, but Finrod stopped her, and Finarfin said with a smile, "No need for airs here, child, not in such an informal setting. You were my daughter's handmaid; that allows you some freedom here."

Avorneth nodded warily, then said in answer to the she-elf's question: "Dimethor was a captain of the guard in Lothlórien, our home. I was not aware he was Avari until recently. It is still held against him in some places, and he wanted the respect of his peers and friends without that being used against him."

"And we do not hold it against him," Eärwen said softly, and Avorneth relaxed minutely, "We just know that it is difficult for Avari to leave Middle-Earth, we just wished to know why he left. And about our daughter as well."

Avorneth nodded and was silent as they all settled into chairs around a table nearby to eat. Not much was said throughout the meal, although the elves there told Avorneth much about Aman and the recent happenings there, but once the food was finished and they were all enjoying glasses of wine Avorneth turned to Finarfin and said, "The answer as to why Dimethor, and myself, left Arda is long and difficult to tell."

"I understand," Finarfin said gently, "But we are curious about the goings-on in Middle-Earth. I have spoken with Eärendil, and although he did not say much, what he did say left me with more questions than answers. All he said was that one of the greatest atrocities he had ever witnessed was happening in Arda and that you would have most of the answers," he leaned forward slightly, "Would you be willing to tell it? And why your grief hangs so heavily over you?"

Avorneth looked down at her hands a moment before looking up and saying, "You will not like this story," she warned, "I almost cannot believe it happened, and I was in the middle of it all."

Eärwen answered instead of her husband, "We will still listen, but perhaps we should move to a more comfortable setting? You may feel more at ease."

All agreed, leaving for an open balcony with chairs and settees and more wine. Once all were settled Eärwen asked, "You do know all here?" when Avorneth shook her head Eärwen sighed, "It seems manners are remiss today," everyone there smiled in amusement and embarrassment and Eärwen continued, "I'm certain Finrod introduced himself, and this is his betrothed, Amarië," the she-elf that had asked Avorneth about Dimethor first smiled and nodded, and Eärwen continued, "And this is Indis, Findis, Nerdanel, Anairë, and I am certain you know of Fingon and Aegnor. And this is Artanáro," gesturing at the elf Avorneth thought she recognized but still couldn't place.

Eärwen settled into a chair next to her husband and asked, "Would you be willing to tell the story now?" at Avorneth's nod she added, "If you need to stop, please do so. This doesn't have to be told all at once. I see that it weighs heavily on you. We don't wish to add to your burdens."

"Thank you, my lady, but I would prefer not to stop if I can help it," Avorneth said, then looked out into the gardens nearby, collecting her thoughts before turning back to her hosts and starting her story: "Almost three years ago, by Middle-Earth reckoning, Lord Elrond left Imladris to procure horses from one of the Edain realms well known for the horses they bred as the finest in Middle-Earth. The mare I brought with me is of that stock. He was able to arrange the trade of those horses and began to head to Lothlórien to visit his daughter Lady Arwen. But he never arrived."

Artanáro's attention was immediately on her, "Why not?"

Avorneth's breath caught a moment before she said, "He was captured by men. He was traveling alone, I think because he needed to grieve for Lady Celebrían in peace, I don't know for sure. Lord Glorfindel would know the exact reasoning. I do not," Artanáro stood up then and started pacing, and Avorneth continued after an encouraging nod from Finarfin, "Around the same time he was captured, I was running in the forests of Caras Galadhon. Racing deer is my favorite past time, and my lady was in Rivendell at the time. I was attending Lady Arwen, but she gave me the day to do as I will, wanting some peace as well."

"Why?" Anairë asked.

Avorneth responded, "Her mother's torture weighs heavily on her, she couldn't bring herself to stay in Rivendell and came to the Golden Wood for some peace. But sometimes she feels crowded by all those around her and wishes to be alone, so she dismisses her maids for a time and we are at liberty for the day. This was one such day."

Anairë nodded and Avorneth continued, "I had run a good way into the forest, but was still inside our borders. Suddenly, I was attacked by men as well, inside our borders. The trees sent word to a patrol, but they were too late. By the time the patrol arrived in the clearing the men were gone, and all that remained of me were my long knives. My fiance was the one who found them, and the doe that came with me led him and the others to where the men had taken me away," she stopped a moment, realizing Indis had taken her hand and was holding it gently. She looked at the ancient queen, who smiled gently.

Avorneth smiled back and continued, "I woke up in an underground cell. I was then taken to another cell, where I saw Lord Elrond. He was chained hand and foot to the wall but seemed fine. There were a few Edain with him, men of Gondor and a boy from Rohan, realm of the horse-lords. I learned later that those four Men had been there for years. Then this woman came in. Her name was Bregoleth," Avorneth shivered slightly, "She threatened to kill me, and Lady Arwen and her brothers, if Lord Elrond didn't do what she wanted. Taking me was proof her men could get past our borders. Lord Elrond agreed and I was drugged. The next time I woke Lord Elrond was gone, and I was chained in his place."

Nerdanel looked confused and asked, "What did this woman want with Elrond Half-elven?"

Avorneth swallowed hard, "She, and her men, were hunters. They were paid to hunt people, but she wanted to hunt an elf. She chose Lord Elrond and hunted him for almost two years. Many thought him dead during that time."

"And is he?" Artanáro asked.

Avorneth shook her head, "No, he isn't. He was found by his eldest son, Elladan, although he credits his father's horse Veryafion," Artanáro smiled at that and Avorneth continued, all of a sudden aware that this elf knew more than he was letting on about Lord Elrond and Imladris, "My sister was living in Rivendell at the time. Before I left she told me the entire story of what happened there. The hunters don't let those they hunt stop for any reason; not to eat, sleep, drink, or anything until they are about to drop dead. They then let them rest a bit before forcing them on. The only way to end the hunt is to kill a chosen hunter. The woman, Bregoleth, said Lord Elrond would have to kill her, something he wouldn't do."

Everyone was shocked, but Artanáro asked, "How bad was it when Lord Elrond was found?"

Avorneth thought a moment before saying, "Very bad. He was covered in wounds, had manacles embedded in his wrists and ankles, was starved and dehydrated, as well as sleep-deprived. He had pneumonia and needed surgery."

"For what?" Finarfin asked, horrified about what his distant kinsman and the elf that had saved his life during the War of Wrath had had to endure and survive.

Avorneth's eyes slid shut as she concentrated, "My sister said his appendix ruptured, causing a massive infection. The healers had to remove what was left of it, his kidney, most of his liver, and two feet of intestines. They also had to remove a rag and a stone from his stomach," she opened her eyes, looking into Finarfin's shocked eyes, "The healers, Hadlathon and Mistaro, said they hadn't seen anything that bad since the War of Wrath."

Finrod shook his head, "I almost can't believe it," he looked closely at her, "Were you in the dungeons of that place the entire time?"

Avorneth nodded, "Lord Elrond promised me he would return, so I never lost hope. I know he keeps his word. The Men in that cell gradually earned my trust, especially the boy from Rohan. Almost a year after they took Lord Elrond they forced one of the men from Gondor, Cendar, out on a hunt. Around that time I met the boy, Tordag's, sister Eafled. She was what the hunters used to keep him in line. Eafled was blind, and the hunters threatened to leave her in orc-country if he didn't do what they wanted. Eventually, the hunters took him, and the other Gondorian. When they did so they took Eafled as well a few days later, leaving her to die in orc-country. Luckily my fiance and his father were exploring the area for me where she was left and got her to safety," she paused a moment then said, "One of the Rangers, Magron, was a traitor. I learned this after they took Eafled. He came into the cell, free, and said he wanted me more compliant."

"Did he…?" Amarië asked, horrified. The others were similarly shocked.

Avorneth smiled slightly, "I might have been chained to a wall, but I still fought him off every time. He never got close," the others laughed slightly, and Avorneth smiled, "My fiance taught me how to fight. Middle-Earth is dangerous, he didn't want my defenseless," the others openly laughed at that, but once the laughter died down Avorneth continued, voice thoughtful as she called memories forward, "A few months later and some more Rangers were captured and put in the cell. A month or so after that, a trusted prisoner and her son helped me escape the fortress, on the mare I brought with me. We made it pretty far before the hunters captured me again, but by then I knew where I was, somewhat. They always blindfolded me, but I knew I was near Mordor."

"Were you punished for that escape attempt? I can't imagine those hunters were very sane," Fingon said.

Avorneth nodded, "They made me fight a warg they had starved and kept in an arena-like area in their dungeons. Apparently, Bregoleth would feed those that displeased her to that warg, as well as prisoners to keep them in line. Fortunately, there was a spy from Rohan there. He was able to give me a knife, and I was able to kill the warg."

Finarfin shook his head with a smile, "This tale is getting more and more interesting."

Avorneth nodded before continuing, "Once Lord Elrond was healed he led a force to the stronghold Bregoleth lived in. Every elven realm sent warriors, as well as Dúnedain from the North, Rangers from Gondor and their Steward, and Riders of Rohan led by their king. In the end, the hunters and mercenaries Bregoleth hired were defeated, Bregoleth killed herself rather than face what she had done, and the lands were cleared of the hunters and spies Bregoleth used to make sure none found out about what she was doing."

"It must have been an intense fight," Finrod said.

Avorneth shrugged, "I was in the dungeons the entire time. The aftermath, from what I saw, was intense. The bodies of the dead mercenaries and hunters were in a large pile, and there weren't that many survivors on that side. I didn't know help had come because Magron forced me to another layer of dungeons and to a hidden cell down there."

Artanáro stopped pacing abruptly and stared at her, "You were bait."

Avorneth nodded, "He wanted to lure Cendar, his former captain that he hated for personal reasons, but he also lured my fiance. He caught my fiance by surprise," tears coming to her eyes and she stopped speaking as her throat closed.

There was silence for a moment, then Indis drew Avorneth into her embrace and held her close for a few minutes. Avorneth let her do so, needing the comfort for a few moments. Once her emotions calmed she pulled away from Indis and said, "Thank you, my lady."

"It is what you needed," Indis said simply, and Avorneth nodded shakily.

"If you don't wish to continue..." Finarfin offered.

Avorneth shook her head, "I can go on," her eyes flashing with determination, and Finarfin nodded. She continued, "Magron stabbed my fiance in the back, but before he could do much else Cendar came and they fought. Magron ended up killing him too, but not before Cendar and my fiance were able to kill him as well. At around the same time, my fiance's father came, and Lord Elrohir, Lord Elrond's younger twin son. Lord Elrohir freed me, and Lord Elrond came, but there was nothing he could do. My fiance died in his father's arms."

"And his father was Dimethor, the one that came with you," Eärwen said slowly, realizing why he had come.

Avorneth nodded, "His son was the last of his family in Middle-Earth; he had no reason to stay. My sister is still in Arda, but she and her fiance are not ready to leave yet. Her fiance, Idhrenor, is still loyal to Lord Elrond and will stay until Lord Elrond leaves as well."

Her story finished Avorneth stopped talking and took a deep breath before looking around. Everyone was silent, waiting for Finarfin to speak, which he eventually did: "Eärendil was right. That was one of the most disturbing stories I have ever heard," glancing at Artanáro's still-pacing form. The dark-haired elf seemed the most distressed by this story, and wouldn't calm down when Finarfin glared at him a long moment. Even when he was sitting he fidgeted slightly, and not even Fingon's hand on his knee could calm him.

Finarfin turned back to Avorneth and smiled gently, "Thank you for telling us this story. I know it was difficult, and I pray you see your fiance soon."

"As do I," Eärwen said gently, "Námo does not keep two lovers apart for long. You will see each other again, I am sure of it."

"Thank you, my lady," Avorneth said softly, "That is my hope too."

Silence fell for a few more minutes before Finrod shifted slightly and asked, "I hate to ask this after such a difficult tale, but how is my sister? Was she well the last time you saw her?"

Avorneth nodded, "The last few years have been difficult for her, but she is still strong. The sea doesn't call strongly enough for her to obey yet, and she is determined to defeat Sauron. I don't know when that will be, but I don't think it will be soon."

Finrod nodded, while Nerdanel canted her head, curious about something, "You claim to be one of Lady Artanis's handmaids, but you are not aware of her innermost thoughts like many handmaids are."

Avorneth actually laughed a bit at that before answering: "I was one of her handmaids, but I am young and irresponsible. Lady Galadriel took me as a maid to try and calm my wild nature, but it didn't really work. After about a yén she gave up and let me be as I am, knowing she wouldn't be able to tame me. The most I ever tried to do was sing and dance, and sometimes my teasing could get a smile out of her. That was the scope of what I did as one of her maids: cause trouble. She never asked for much more from me."

"I see," Nerdanel said, while Aegnor spoke for the first time since coming out onto the balcony, "It sounds as though Artanis has found her way in Middle-Earth. She will come when she is ready, and not before. We all know how stubborn she can be."

Nods were seen all around, then Findis also spoke, "Perhaps now that the story is finished, you can stop that infernal pacing," looking at Artanáro as she said this, as he had stood up once more and was pacing again, clearly agitated and upset.

The elf sighed and stopped his pacing, "I am sorry my lady, but that story angered me quite a bit."

"I can imagine," Findis said gently, "Your foster-son nearly died."

Avorneth looked up at that and asked, "Foster-son?"

Artanáro nodded before smiling slightly, "It seems my manners are more remiss than usual today. Artanáro I am called in Quenya, but my given name is Ereinion Gil-galad. I raised Elrond Half-elven, and have been anxious for news ever since I was reborn."

Avorneth nodded, glad and surprised she had suddenly found the one she had been asked to find, then said, "Lord Elrond looked well the last time I saw him, but I do not know him that well. I can't attest to his health one way or another."

Gil-galad, or Artanáro, smiled sadly, "I know you can't. Elrond is very private; I'm afraid you wouldn't be able to get much information out of him. He only opens up to those he wishes to, and those that he lets get close to him. He has learned, mostly through cruelty, not to let anyone think of him as weak," Nerdanel winced at that, knowing her sons were responsible for much of that cruelty.

"Perhaps not," Avorneth agreed, reaching into a hidden pocket in her dress and drawing forth a thick letter, "But Lord Círdan knows him well, and asked me to give this to you if you had been reborn."

Gil-galad stared at the letter a moment before walking over and taking it from her gently. He continued to stare at it before swallowing hard and saying, "Thank you, for bringing this. It means much to me," he turned abruptly to Finarfin, "If you will excuse me, my lord?" barely waiting long enough for Finarfin to nod before leaving to read the letter in peace.

Avorneth watched him go before looking to the sky. The sun was setting and it had been hours since she had been home. Her parents were likely worried by now, and she didn't want to miss dinner. Her mother had promised her favorite dish for dinner, and she already found herself missing them.

Seeming to read her mind Anairë said, "We shouldn't keep you any longer, either, Avorneth. I am sure your family is anxious for you to be home."

"They likely are, my lady," Avorneth agreed, then turned to Finarfin, "Is there anything else you need to ask, my lord? My family, Dimethor's family, Dimethor, and I leave tomorrow for Oromë's forests, and I don't want to inconvenience you if you have more questions."

Finarfin shook his head, "I don't think so, Avorneth. You have told us everything we wish to know. Any questions we have can wait for Elrond Half-elven or our daughter. We won't keep you any longer."

Almost on cue, a guard appeared, ready to escort her home. Seeing him Avorneth stood and said, "Thank you for your hospitality, my lord, it was greatly welcomed. I hope to see you all again, in better days," curtsying as she said this.

"As do I, young one," Finarfin said, the others quietly agreeing, "May your journey tomorrow be an easy one, and I hope you enjoy the beauty of Oromë's forests."

Avorneth smiled slightly before nodding and leaving with the guard. Once she was gone Eärwen turned to her husband, "That story answered many questions, but also created new ones."

"New ones that only Artanis and Elrond Half-elven can answer," Indis said softly, "And so we wait again for news and for her."

"It won't be for too long, Naneth," Finarfin said, "Their daughter and wife are here, they will want to return as soon as they can. They both must miss her terribly. They will come sooner than we might think."

Indis nodded and the rest of the evening passed quietly for the royals. Later that night Finarfin and Eärwen stared at the starry sky, wondering if their daughter was staring at the same sky and the same stars.

Wondering if she would come soon, and waiting patiently for her to come home where she belonged.

They would wait for as long as they had to for her to come home.

In his home, Gil-galad read the letter his foster-father had sent him. This was the first letter he had received, having been recently reborn and back with his father, Fingon. He had his own residence and he was glad for the privacy. He didn't know many here and was actually considering taking a trip to visit Oromë's forests for a time. The elves there were more carefree and would gladly take him in for a time to enjoy the quiet and beauty of the forests. Their leader was a close friend as well; one of the few he knew well in these lands.

But first, he had to get through this letter, and it was hard. Tears came to his eyes as he read, and he looked out at the night sky when he was done, glad Círdan had included the things Avorneth couldn't know about how Elrond was handling it all. He couldn't believe what Elrond had suffered through, and how close he had come to Námo's Halls. He would have to wait a while longer to see what damage this experience had done to his cousin, and he found himself eager to see him again.

It had been so long, and it would be a while longer, but he could wait for however long it would take.

He had already been waiting for almost a decade for his family to start coming to him again on these Far Shores.

Avorneth was glad to be on the road the next day, leaving the city of Tirion behind. She was enjoying the openness of the wilds of Aman, and glad she and those with her didn't have to travel armed. It was now a formality and a show of beautiful weapons if nothing else when they did.

There were no orcs in Aman, thank the Valar.

Glancing at Dimethor riding near her she guessed he felt the same.

Their journey was several days of steady travel, and eventually, they arrived at the forests of Oromë. Entering the forest was an incredible experience; every tree brimmed with life, every bush reached eagerly for the sun, even the grass seemed more alive than it had in Arda. Animals came forth to greet them; squirrels and birds and chipmunks descended from the branches. One chipmunk took up residence on Avorneth's shoulder for a good half hour before he decided it was time to leave and resume collecting nuts.

A few deer came forward as well, curious about the doe traveling with them, but she paid them no mind. She would run with them once she knew where her friend lived.

A massive elk also came from the depths of the forest, tall and proud with an impressive rack. Next to him stood a female elk, and they watched the travelers with interest.

Looking closely Avorneth was surprised to see the buck had auburn-brown fur and bright blue eyes that were alight with wisdom and power. The doe was golden furred with blue eyes, also filled with wisdom and power but also light and laughter. She regarded the blonde she-elf with kindness and gentle humor, and Avorneth smiled slightly before bowing her head; glad she had been accepted by Oromë and Vána into their home.

The two elk only turned and disappeared into the depths of the forest, leaving Avorneth to catch up with her family, as she had fallen behind when the two elk had appeared.

None were that surprised when she appeared behind them, knowing she wouldn't stray far just yet.

Their arrival in the settlement was met with excitement and joy by many. Avorneth was more than surprised when she saw the leader of the settlement was none other than Oropher of Doriath and the Greenwood, reborn. He laughed easily at the sight of Dimethor, who returned the greeting with a smile and strong hug.

It had been a long time since they had last seen each other.

Eventually, the excitement of seeing old friends calmed, and the travelers were able to go to their homes. The settlement was composed mainly of talans built high in the trees, and this is where they were led. Avorneth's parents led her to a talan all her own, with plenty of rooms for her and her husband and all the children they could have wanted. Now those rooms stood empty and waiting, but for how long they would remain so Avorneth didn't know.

Her parents left her alone to unpack her belongings and settle into her home as she wanted, and she was just beginning when Dimethor and his wife stopped by. They lived closer to the outskirts of the settlement, closer to Dimethor's Avari-kin, and were about to leave.

Dimethor spoke first: "We have discussed this at length, Avorneth, and decided that Faelher's things should stay with you," nodding at the bundles and packages they had brought with them that were on the floor of the talan, "In all likelihood, he will come to find you first when he is reborn; he should be at ease when he comes here. He should know that this is his home."

Avorneth's breath caught in her throat before she was able to ask quietly, "Are you sure about this?"

Faelher's mother nodded with a gentle smile, "You love our son, penneth, and he loves you. His home will be where you are, and you will be here. When he does arrive, he will want to find you first before anyone else. This place needs to be his home too, when he comes."

She smiled wider at Avorneth, who returned it tearfully as she went and embraced Faelher's parents. They left soon after that with a promise to visit, and then Avorneth was finally left alone. She put her things away quietly, all her clothes and her few books and jewelry, before turning to Faelher's belongings.

This was harder for her to do, but eventually, she was able to put his things away also. His weapons went alongside hers on the weapon's rack in their bedroom, and his clothes went next to hers in the closet. His books and personal items were a bit more difficult to place, but she was able to make her home neat and tidy after several hours.

And empty.

Avorneth looked around at her work and sighed. Her home was settled, but not her mind or her heart.

And there was only one way to fix that pain for a time.

Avorneth quickly took her shoes off and descended down to the forest floor. Her doe, who had been grazing at the base of the tree that held Avorneth's talan, looked up and perked her ears at the sight of Avorneth's bare feet. She knew what that meant, and instantly sprang away, Avorneth on her heels. They ran headlong into the forest and those that saw only smiled and shook their heads at their antics and free natures. Nightwind, who had been released to run where she willed, joined in the chase as well. She was loving this new place, and glad to see that there was no danger here at all.

She could run and chase without being forced to stop. In time, she might even go to that horse herd she had seen in the distance on their way to the forest. But right now she was content to stay with the elves and was glad to see that there was no shortage of food and attention here. She knew that she would never go hungry again and that her new friend would take good care of her.

As they ran more deer joined in the chase, and then suddenly they were in a meadow, and a woman was racing with them. The meadow was filled with beautiful flowers and butterflies, and bees buzzed lazily around the flowers. The grass was tall and long and wild, hiding birds and rabbits in the tall stalks. The woman was tall and had golden hair and brown eyes. She laughed suddenly and turned around mid-stride, springing backward eagerly and joyfully, calling out, "Catch me if you can, children of the hart!"

She turned back around and raced away, Avorneth on her heels, laughing all the while. Avorneth laughed too suddenly, feeling at ease for the first time in a long while.

She may be waiting a long time for Faelher to come back to her, but at least she was no longer alone. She had her family and her deer, and the friends she would make here in Valinor. She had Nessa to laugh and run with, and she had her freedom. That was all she needed until Faelher came back to her.

She was finally home, and it was an amazing feeling to have.

She was home.

Home.

Translations:

Túna – a high green hill in the land of Aman. The city of Tirion was built on it.
Calacirya – the Pass of Light, a narrow pass that led through the chain of mountains called the Pelóri in Aman.
Mindon Eldaliéva – the Tower of Ingwë, a tower in the center of the city of Tirion in Aman.
Tol Eressëa – the Lonely Isle, a large island located off the eastern coast of Aman.
yén – a unit of time used by the elves that is the same as 144 years
naneth/nana – mother/mama
penneth – little one
talan – a living place for elves in a tree that could contain many rooms