Wild Child- The Family Jewel

by SiofraMarina

The daughter of Celegorm and Aredhel and the son of a certain Gondolin Lord grow up in Oromë's woods oblivious to their true heritage. A tournament in Tirion reveals hidden truths, secrets and long lost relatives. The two are thrown head-first into the fight against Morgoth and the family drama continues. Can they save their loved ones from oaths, betrayal and dark tragic fates?

12. The Language of Trees and Animals

A long chapter ahead! Hope ye all enjoy!

Oromë's Woods, Y.T...

Two steeds, and a hound, skidded to a halt in the early hours of the afternoon. The hound, not tired in the slightest, bounded off through the woods. The riders, a little exhausted from days of hard riding with little to no rest, took a breath.

The encampment of the hunters was practically deserted, Oromë's followers all out and about for the day. A few lingered however, and warmly greeted the two.

One of the welcomes came from Kandāra. 'She is going to be over the moon with this surprise. All I have heard for the last week is 'Atto and Ammë will be here in two months...how long is two months Kandāra? Will I be old enough to drink more than just one mouthful from Atto's hip flask in two months?' Her face will light up when she sees you here early!'

Tyelkormo smiled 'Politics is driving us both mad in Tirion. I swear Atar and Nolofinwë have never been so close to murdering each other! It is...tense to say the least. Our siblings are even involved at this stage, eying the two of us as traitors for so much as talking! We had to get out. '

'I heard unbelievable rumors...' Kandāra began.

'I assure you all of them are most likely true.' Írissë sighed, raking her hair in exasperation . 'It is...madness... Atar and Fëanáro simply have nothing in common to agree on, thus widening the rift.'

Kandāra shook her head. 'I can think of something they share, in this very woods...'

'If only we could reveal the grandchild they have in common...' Tyelkormo muttered, frustrated with the world.

Írissë eyed Tyelko with pity, while silently reiterating all the reasons why they could not be impetuous and reveal Siofra to the outside world.

'To change the subject from such infuriating matters, Tyelko, what did Kandāra say about Aranya drinking from your mirúvorë flask?' Írissë, as always, did not miss a trick. She eyed Tyelkormo sternly, arms folding across her chest. Tyelko was reminded of Anairë, though he would never have the courage to tell Írissë such. The glare she gave took him back to the terrible days of etiquette lessons with his brothers.

He shifted uncomfortably, eyes darting to Kandāra, who looked guiltily at him, mouthing an apology. 'I.. did not give her...mirúvorë...ever!' He lied.

Írissë's gaze did not falter. Tyelkormo broke.

He threw his palms in the air. 'Fine! I may have given her a mouthful or two once or twice! Just to help her sleep! I swear she is the most restless child I have ever seen, and that is including all of my brothers, and yours and... I was tired! There I admit it! She is more outgoing than even me!' Tyelko passionately ranted excuses.

Írissë continued staring for a moment, before breaking into a deviant smile. 'I myself find that wine gets her to sleep much faster than mirúvorë', was all she had to say.

Tyelkormo's eyes widened in realisation...'You mean...? You made me confess when you Melda are just as...'

'I just wanted to hear the mighty Turcafinwë admit he has finally met his match.' Írissë's smile turned into a smirk of triumph. Kandāra laughed.

'HMMPHH' It was Tyelkormo's turn to cross his arms and glare.

Írissë however, had the solution to lightening Tyelko's mood. 'Kandāra, where is our Aranya now?'

Tyelkormo's mood left as soon as it came.

Kandāra pointed them in the right direction. 'She is in the trees...well...actually Írissë I will let Tyelkormo surprise you with what she is doing.

Írissë raised an eyebrow but did not question what sort of surprise the elder nís had brought up. The couple set off through the forest.

The peaceful atmosphere was one they had missed. Nowadays, peace, in all forms, was difficult to achieve in Tirion.

Suddenly, Írissë laughed, melodic and hearty all at once.

'What is it Melda?' Her laugh had Tyelko subconsciously smiling.

'Nothing...it's just... no its nothing!' Írissë managed to blurt out in-between giggles. Tyelko got the feeling she was laughing at his expense.

'Out with it!' He ordered. He had not done anything! What is so hilariously funny?

'It is just that...fatherhood...-' Írissë's laughter got even louder- if that was possible.

'Yes?' Tyelko ushered her to continue, slightly worried by the fact Írissë was laughing so much at nothing. Had the family drama driven her mad?

-...fatherhood, Tyelko...has made you soft!'

Tyelkormo laughed this time, at the sheer absurdness of Írissë's words. Me? Soft?...NEVER!

'Okay Írissë I think perhaps we should make a side trip to Lady Estë to get your head examined! I am NOT soft! Children run away from me in Tirion!' Tyelkormo exaggerated a little but was satisfied he had made his point.

Írissë smiled too sweetly. 'Well I wouldn't say that... I mean consider last week!

'Look if you are bringing up the Itarillë business again then I must remind you that I have already been severely reprimanded by both your family and mine for suspected treachery and conspiracy in this trying time of 'family war!' That and my ego has been completely and utterly ruined! So please do not bring it up!' Tyelko pleaded Írissë to let it go. She would do no such thing.

Your 'ego' of a 'tough, hard-core ner', was destroyed because you were too soft to decline Itarillë's invitation to her 'dolly tea party!' Even Findekáno is able to say no to such invitations, especially when they involve braiding flowers into ones hair!' Írissë teased relentlessly.

'My hair did not look half as ridiculous as Findékáno's does on a daily basis! Honestly, the amount of gold he braids in! It is as though he wishes he were born a Vanya!

'Do not try to change the subject and do not question my big brother's quirky style! Írissë defended her eldest hanno. 'Although, to tell you the truth, Finno cannot braid hair to save his life! Someone obviously does it for him... but I have no idea who.'

'WHAT SORT OF NER CANNOT BRAID HIS OWN HAIR?! Maitimo had us all taught before we could even walk! Typical Palace princes, not a clue how to do anything on their own!'

Írissë gave Tyelko a pointed look which told him to stop insulting Finno in an effort to change the subject.

He dared not defy Írissë twice in a row. 'I am just stating facts. I do not mind Finno really. I mean it Írissë do not give me that look! Especially when you compare him to Turukáno! Now him I can't stand. He said I was alienating his daughter! Alienating! I did not even know what that meant at the time! And to make it worse, when Atar found out about the incident he said I had been alienated by a little girl!'

Needless to say, Tyelkormo had not realised how much trouble a pretend tea-party with his law-niece/first cousin once removed would cause at the time.

'Well Fëanáro was right on that account. You have been alienated by a little girl, but not Itarillë.' Írissë smirked.

Although Tyelko knew he was proving Írissë right, proving he was indeed softened by a certain little someone, Tyelko could not help beaming at the small reference to his daughter.

'I will admit that I am soft for her.'

'And any other elfling that graces the face of Aman.'

'Hmmmph'

'If it is any consolation, I have a soft spot for her too, Tyelko.'

'I know.'

Compatible silence ensued for a brief moment.

'So what is this 'surprise' Kandāra speaks of?' Írissë could only hide her curiosity for so long.

Tyelkormo smirked. 'You will see Melda, all in good time.'

'If it is another tattoo then I will take one for my house and kill you here!' Írissë was slightly concerned, Tyelko had a reputation of 'surprising' her with things she did not find half as amusing as he.

Tyelko laughed. 'I promise it is not a tattoo and that you will like this surprise.'

The two continued their walk, The birds sang all around them. Tyelko mimicked their tune, conversing with them in a way Írissë could never comprehend, but also adored. 'Birds are different to other animals', he had once told her. 'It is impossible to use osanwë with them, as I usually do when conversing. Instead, one must mimick the exact voice of the bird species with whom they are conversing- there are thousands to learn!'

Apparently such a feat had taken Tyelko years to achieve.

Írissë found herself washed over with emotion, admiration, for the ner she loved. Whenever she imagined Tyelko, she imagined the image before her, him, in a blissful forest, wild and free and talking to birds and animals in the unique way only he could. He was special in so many ways, she wondered how others could not see it so clearly.

But now was Aranya time, they would have each other now and in Tirion. She could admire him later. Clearing her throat, she grabbed Tyelko's attention, who was whistling a response to a bird which sounded lively to say the least.

Tyelko however, ushered her to stay silent, much to her annoyance. Just listen Melda... hang on...I will translate what this particular bird is saying!

Írissë rolled her eyes but complied. Does this have anything to do with Anya or the surprise...?

Perhaps... Was all Tyelko had time to quickly utter, before he was calling again to the bird.

He received another boisterous response. He smirked. Melda, he began, the bird just said, 'Hullo, what is your name? Your voice sounds different to the others?

Írissë crinkled her brow...Are birds usually so overly friendly?

Tyelko looked smug..No...this one is special... was all he said before creating another exaggerated bird call she had never heard.

He translated for Írissë using osanwë again. 'Hang on...you are not a wren!...I have never heard a bird like you before! Wait a minute, I need to figure out your voice... Say something again.'

Tyelkormo hooted again. He made a strange 'crex crex' noise

He quickly receited the words he received from the bird back to Írissë. She said 'A...corncrake? Well I have never seen one of you before! I have the hang of your language now! What is your name Mister Corncrake?'

Írissë had a sneaking suspicion of the identity of the 'bird', but knew that was impossible...Aranya could not speak to animals! This bird reminded her of her daughter however, be it personality or bubbliness or the funny and excited articulation.

Tyelko also translated his response to Írissë. 'My name is...Desirable Strength...what is yours?'

Írissë shook her head at his made up epessë. Ever the humble ner Tyelko

You do realise half of that name is yours?

Strength? Why thank you Meldo

No! Írissë means 'DESIRABLE' and Turcafinwë means 'STRONG!'

So you are implying I am not strong...?

No...no I mean...I...

It's alright, I only tease, but I think a name that would suit your 'alter ego bird' better would be 'Desirable IMPATIENCE.'

Hmmph.

Would you stop with that? It drives me and your mother mad!

I hardly ever say 'hmmph', I dont know what you're talking about!

Their banter was cut short with another respose from the 'bird'. 'You have two names! Just like me! I have one name from my Atar and one name from my Ammë, well everyone does, every elf that is, I did not know birds did that though! The robins won't even tell me one of their names!'

Írissë raised an eyebrow at this response. The speaker was clearly an elf. Were her suspicions true? Was it Anya...? If so, then how had she learned so much, so fast? Was this the 'surprise?'

Tyelko smiled at Írissë's reaction, before smugly replying 'And which name do you prefer princess? The one your Atar gave you or the one your Ammë gave you?'

Tyelko's reply told Írissë all she needed to know. This was Anya! Anya had the same gift as Tyelko! Her chest swelled with pride. She shook her head at Tyelko's antics, while praying her daughter would favour the name 'Aranya', if only to knock Tyelkormo's dangerous level of cockiness Anya did not need to inherit.

Tyelko's translating voice sounded in her head. 'Ahhhh I don't know! My Atar called me Siofra and my Ammë called me Aranya. They are both nice names!'

Tyelko whistled a response and refused to translate. Írissë glared until he answered sheepishly. I said I would choose 'Shining Huntress' over 'Free' anytime.

He received a none-too-gentle shove in the ribs.

A beautiful giggle sounded from an oak a few feet from them, their daughter blowing her cover without even realising.

A whistled response followed the giggle. Tyelko again refused to translate. The slight fall of his smirk indicated to Írissë that the mother name may have 'won' this little contest of sorts.

What did she say Tyelko...? Írissë echoed far too sweetly. Tyelko threw her a look she could only describe as 'hmmph'.

She said something along the lines of 'Shining Huntress is nice, but if you are Free it is better, because you are free to be a Shining huntress OR anything else you wish.''

Írissë could not help but gloat That's my girl Aranya!

Tyelko made more incomprehensible sounds, translating to 'I would be more careful with what you say to the birds, baby, you never know when Atto is going to be listening!'

Siofra Aranya fell out of her tree.

Tyelko and Írissë ran to break her fall. She managed to catch herself however, dangling upside down and holding on by her feet, wrapped securely around the branch.

'ATTO! AMMË! Is it two months already?!'

Her excitement could not be understated.

Tyelko carefully lowered Siofra to the ground, while Írissë explained 'Not quite, Anya, we are here early, for even more time with you!'

The two parents in turn were nearly floored by the ferocity of the hugs assaulted onto them.

'AMMË! I can talk to the birds! And all sorts of animals! Atto helped me, but now I can figure it out on my own mostly, though I have never heard a corncrake before today, even though it was actually Atto and I didn't know.' She rambled on as any child would, except Aranya had the capacity to talk ten times faster.

'That is AMAZING onya! I am so proud! Írissë kissed and hugged her daughter again. It had been over a year since she had seen her, the longest they had ever been apart. Guilt rose within her. She vowed to never leave Aranya for so long again.

'Melda, did you know Anya is already fluent in the language of every creature. She did not have to learn the voices of each bird as I had! Even though she never heard a corncrake, within minutes, she had picked up the tongue and was able to converse with me.'

The look of pride on his face was one of the greatest Írissë had ever seen on Tyelko, and this was the mighty Turcafinwë, Aráto champion, son of Fëanáro, Noldo Prince and by no means humble.

'Atar where can I find a real Corncrake? What do they look like?' Aranya did not have time for praise, she was a Noldo after all and desired knowledge.

'You will not find any in these woods, Siofra. They are extremely rare, even I have not seen one! They are many in Endorë. Oromë taught me their tongue in my youth. Apparently they are brown and dwell in shallow boglands, a good way to tell whether or not a marsh is passable.'

Tyelko had no problem spilling his wealth of knowledge. Írissë almost felt bad for changing the subject. Almost. 'So, Anya can you repeat again which of your names is your favourite? We all know what you said-...'

'...Siofra said she liked the idea of freedom more than hunting, because hunting is included in being free That hardly suffices as an answer-...'

'...I think Aranya has proven her gift with language enough to be able to compose her own response, don't you? No need to put words in her mouth-...'

'...I think Siofra introduces herself with her father name more. I hear no elflings call her by her mother-...'

'...Aranya saves her mother name only for those she loves most!'

Both turned to face their torn daughter, to receive her verdict. 'Ahh I think that...Ahhh well...

'Go on baby.'

'Yes Ammë won't mind the fact you like your father name bett-...OWW Íris... Ammë!... What was that for?!'

'I think I like them both equally and I am just going to go now...'Siofra began to back away. The two shook their heads, where did she think she was going?

Suddenly, Huan burst through the foliage and within seconds was carrying Siofra Aranya away from the question she did not want to answer.

She giggled. 'Huan says I do not have to answer that question if I do not want to!'

Huan ran off, their daughter laughing on his back, leaving the parents speechless.

Tyelko, since when has she the ability to summon Huan in such a way? He was the other side of the woods not long ago!

Since...today? I did not know she could do that! It took me years!

Huan muttered something lowly to Tyelko, and Írissë could not believe it, but she understood.

'For what it is worth...' Huan's voice was deep '...Personally I always preferred the name 'Aranya'.

The look on Tyelko's face was victory enough for Írissë

'Melda, would you mind wiping that smirk from your face and taking Huan's knife out of my back please.'

sSSsssSsSsSsSssSs

Woodlands, near the House of Tulkas, Y.T...

She walked in the beautiful silver light of Telperion. How she adored this time. The forest lit up, illuminated with the soft sheen, not as bright as Laurelin, but more beautiful in her eyes...silver...oh how she loved the colour silver!

She knew if Vayelya were here she would either tease her to death, or promptly leave to vomit, but she was not and thus, Elenā had time to comptemplate all the silver things she loved... his armour, his flute...his eyes...

She sat by a waterfall and was at peace with the sound of the water as it ran to the sea. The song of the sea...The water and melody was silver to her.

She was not waiting long before he appeared. Still dressed in his armour from training, looking every bit the Lord he was. She ran into his arms.

'Melda' he whispered, holding her tight. They had been apart far too long this time. He had spent the last few months training with Lord Tulkas. She took time away from the city and happily dwelt in the woods, reconnecting with the trees, with her heritage. They arranged little rendezvous, cherishing the privacy the woods alone could bring, away from the eyes of the city.

'Meldo' she replied, with as much affection as he. 'How I missed you'.

'And I you.' He smiled, before picking her up and twirling her in the air. To outside eyes their movement would have looked too perfect to be spontaneous, but long years practising lifts together had drilled a natural reaction of elegance in them both. She laughed.

They kissed for a little too long before sitting and chatting, happy with each other's company.

'So what news from the mighty warriors and their abs of steel?!' Elenā's voice was sarcastic. The last time she had seen him, her Meldo brought news of a friendly plank competition that had been incorporated into the warriors' training. Her Meldo had won, however since Elenā was ten times better at the plank than said Meldo, she had no qualms over boasting about how she was better at this exercise than all the warriors combined.

He rolled his eyes. 'Just because you have an insane ability to hold that awful position for over two hours, does not mean that the rest of us are weak! We just have...normal, strong abs, instead of unnaturally strong ones! And if you want to tease anyone, you should tease Laurë, for coming last in that little contest!'

'As if you and your sister have not teased him enough already.'

'Vayelya?' He quirked an eyebrow. Ooh she smirked he is suspicious!

'Am I seeing some over-protectiveness here? Your sister is a grown nís Meldo!'

'She will always be my little sister and I do not know how I feel about my otorno having feelings for her!' He frowned. Elenā wouldn't dare say it but he looked adorable. If only you knew about the many neri your little nésa has courted and left broken hearted!

'Are you sure it is not merely a friendship, stricken up as a result of the common experience and awkwardness they share from being a third wheel with us two? I would know if Vayelya felt anything major for Laurë, she could never hide much from me for long.'

'Perhaps.' He sighed. 'You are right. Vayelya is grown now, as much as I hate to admit it. And I suppose if she were to fall for someone, Laurë would not be the worst candidate.'

'I suppose he isn't that bad.' She teased, before continuing more seriously. 'She is young and free and the best thing for a good big brother like yourself and an osellë like me to do is leave her be, to choose her own path, and, as long as she is happy, support her wishes. You cannot choose her future for her, even if you may dislike the path she is about to tread.

Elenā did not mean to draw up a comparison to her own relationship, but her words seemed to remind her Love of the support he and Elenā did not receive from the remainder of his House, most notably his father.

'I am sorry.' He closed his eyes, 'I wish they could let go of their prejudice and see what a beautiful person you are, inside and out.'

She clasped his hand and kissed it gently. 'All I care for is your love. Let them say and think whatever and treat me however they wish, I do not care, I have you. Do not say you are sorry Meldo, there is nothing to forgive. I have everything I ever wanted.'

He nodded and subconsciously reached for his flute. He played an enchanting tune. which suited the mood of their conversation. Slow tempo, soft melody, both joy and sorrow and love emerging from the silver notes. She had come to realise music was his way of releasing emotions.

By the time he had finished the trees were lightly swaying, humming the melody back to Elenā. She sang to them silently, the way she had learned as a little girl, back in Endor, before...she shuddered, she did not wish to think of it.

'Melda?' He noticed, of course he did. He was too sharp and too caring not to notice. 'You feel... cold...'

'I am fine... just...the trees. I...got a flashback of my first life.' She pressed a hand to her forehead. It would pass.

His eyes widened. 'You have never...mentioned that before. Are you alright. Talk to me Elenā.'

She did not know why her trauma revisited now, with a strength she had never experienced since her re-embodiment. However, she soon found herself shuddering all over, trembling in his arms. He rubbed soothing circles into her back and, to his credit, almost hid the panic she could feel rising in his chest.

Panic caused tears to stream down her cheeks. She needed this feeling to stop, she was overcome with primitive fear, the illogical fear of a child...the child she was... before...

She hugged her knees and rocked back and forth, her Meldo kept his grasp on her, supporting her. She felt him send waves of calm through their bond, she heard his soothing voice in her fëa.

Hours passed. He continued soothing her soul. He did not demand she divulge her past, but she suddenly felt the urge to.

'As you know...I...I was born in Endor...' her voice faltered a little, but she continued '...born into an Avarin tribe. We dwelt in the forest, and were one with the trees. We could converse with them, like the Nandor, and we had a love for the earth and stars that I am afraid does not quite exist here in Aman. The stars were our hope in the darkness, the earth was our home, the trees were our survival. We built our homes in them and they helped us, warned us of attacks. They were allies. It is difficult for someone native to Aman to understand how vital the trees were to us. They made the difference between life and death. Those times were dark, not due to the absence of the Two Trees, they were dark because you were living constantly in fear, knowing that everything you had could be taken away in an instant- your home, your family, your loved ones. And nothing was as dark as those creatures of evil; orcs, goblins, vampires...worse. They were capable of anything. Killing, torture, rape- sometimes all three at once. Neri, níssi and children all suffered. You name it, it came natural to them.

She paused for a second, conscious of the shock and anger she could feel emanating from her Meldo. She understood how he felt. How anyone could do such to not only innocents, but children, was beyond comprehension of one raised in peace and bliss all their lives. And she did not grudge him, or anyone for that bliss, her people chose to remain behind, but at the same time she felt as though some elves of Aman were not aware of how lucky they were, to go to bed at night and know their family would all still be alive in the morning. Some moaned about the control the Valar had in this land, but never thought of the cost that came with living without the Valar's protection. Freedom came at a price.

Elenā continued her tale. 'But we were happy, despite it all. We loved our home and our forest, and were more than willing to lay down our lives in defense of it. My Atar and Ammë loved dancing in the times of peace. I suppose that is partially why I love it so. I had three older siblings, the two eldest were of age, a sister and a brother, they were both accomplished warriors. Then came my other sister, two decades older than me. We were very close. Finally there was the baby, a little boy. The last time I saw him he was still latched onto Ammë's breast.'

Lost in memory, she did not want to move on to the tragic part. But she knew she needed to. She had kept her past locked up for so long just the slight trigger of the trees had caused her to break. Who better to tell than her true Love? Her new family.

'And then what happened?' She could hear the reluctance in his voice, but he knew she needed to tell it.

'I was just over three decades. My closest sister and I decided we would sneak away to play in a glade that was forbidden to us. We thought it was beautiful, it was, but it was also deadly. The trees warned us, but we did not listen. It was a place which was attacked often, hence why it was forbidden. We did not know any better. We were ambushed by orqui. My sister managed to slip away to raise the alarm. I was not so lucky. By the time the people of the tribe reached me and slew the orqui, it was too late.

Her breath hitched. 'Every bone in my body had been broken. I remember the shock... I did not know what was happening to me.. I could not breathe. My body was a mangled mess. My elder brother reached me first, I think he was shocked to see me alive. His eyes and the sorrow and anger in them were the last thing I saw. One by one I heard each of my family scream. Then everything went dark, and my fëa departed for Lord Námos halls.'

Her Meldo's fists were clenched. He retched. He held her close again and she felt him shake with sobs. She broke. They embraced. Her pain was his and, after a time, her pain was halved. She composed herself.

'I do not remember much from the Halls. I was so young, and did not dwell there long. Lone elflings most of the time are taken in by a certain Vala, as an apprentice. As you can guess, Nessa raised me. She taught me dance, which I already had a flare to. She also was at peace with the trees like me, sometimes she took me with her when she visited her brother. I met some fellow Avari. When I was old enough, I departed for Tirion, to make a life of my own. Nessa did not mind, she said I was free to do as I wished and that I would be welcome back with open arms. A few months later I ran into Vayelya and I think you know the rest.'

She sighed in frustration. 'But if I had just listened to the damn trees! My carelessness ruined my family's lives! Imagine having to deal with losing a child in such a way, all of them, watching me die! Imagine the guilt my sister feels, the anger of the elder siblings, the heartbreak of my parents, the atmosphere of sorrow my baby brother would have to grow up in! It is all my fault..I...

'Melda! It is NOT your fault. You were but a child! Children are not meant to comprehend danger. Valar the amount of idiotic and dangerous things Laurë and I got up to in our youth, far less innocent than playing in a place you were told not to go! The difference is you were living in a war torn land! How difficult to grow up in such a place! The only one at blame here is the enemy, and I swear if ever I set foot on Endor I will make them pay for what they did to you!'

'And if I ever set foot in Endor again I would find my family and apologise...but alas, some things will never come to pass.' Elenā could not help but feel angry with the world.

He cried, flinging his hands in the air. 'You have nothing to apologise for Melda! Why would you say such a thing!'

Elenā took a deep breath, and braced herself to reveal her deepest emotion. 'I...cannot help but feel guilty sometimes. Here I am, in bliss, living a life of peace and dreams. Valar knows what my family are going through, what evils they fight everyday. To listen to the trees is the first thing an Avarin child is taught from their father and mother! I...' a sob escaped her lips ...'I do not even remember their names!'

He consoled her. 'They probably pray everyday for your happiness. Do not be ashamed Elenā, you did not choose your fate.'

She finally accepted his words of comfort. 'True, I did not. It was a tragic ambush. There was nothing I could have done. Yet, in spite of my guilt, I cannot help but feel glad that I did die. Because if I didn't I would never have met you! Or Vayeyla! And I certainly would not be a professional dancer! More like a healer or scout! And that makes me feel even more guilt! I am being selfish!'

She turned away, in shame. He cupped her cheek towards him. He stared into her eyes, a firm, determined expression on his face. 'Elenā, you grew up in a land filled with darkness! You were separated from your birth family before you fully knew them! You were brutally murdered before you could even reach your father's hip! You served your time in Halls! And now that you are reborn, and have found passion in dance, peace, an osellë, and a new family,- you feel guilty!? Melda you have suffered enough! Do not be ashamed of feeling happy, after all you have endured.'

He smirked. 'And it is alright to fall for an extremely handsome musician and brave warrior, despite his pathetic plank abilities!'

Elenā could help but laugh. 'I suppose he is not the worst ner in the world!'

It felt like a burden had been lifted from her chest. He yet again had taken away the demons of her past. For the first time, she felt as though she deserved the happiness she had worked so hard for. Deserved the peace she had suffered for. Deserved the love he gave. She should not beat herself up because she enjoyed her new home that was Aman.

She became her usual strong independent self again. Sharing her past had healed a hurt and trauma buried so deep within her that she did not know it existed.

He had composed himself for her sake, her Meldo was no stranger to loss, she knew his mother's passing left a scar on his heart that would never fully heal, but a Tirion born ner in the Years of the Trees would never have imagined such horror possible, even for the enemy. They lived in ignorant bliss. Her story had shook him out of it.

Still, she felt the need to change the dark conversation. She had spread enough angst tonight. She was healed and now she could move on. Be strong.

'Can you hear the music of the trees?' She asked him. His crinkled brow and slight cock of his head told her he tried, but he shook his head.

'I cannot. I have tried before, I knew they meant a great deal to you, but no, I hear nothing.'

'I doubt any of the Quendi can. And bless, you tried especially for me?' Bless him indeed, he was so sweet in the most humble way possible.

He flashed her a brilliant smile. 'I am afraid you will have to find another ner to court if you wish for tree talking to be a regular occurane on scandalous rendezvous such as these.'

She played along. 'You almost had it all Meldo- music, dance, good looks, manners. What a pity you failed in both the plank and tree fields!'

He laughed. So melodic. So silver.

'How will my heart take such a parting? I will plank every day just to win your favour again oh bright shining Star ' He exclaimed dramatically.

Elenā cheekily responded 'You flatter me, you strong willed ner! Well, I suppose I might keep you despite your Noldor-ness. I will just have to make sure our children are taught the language of the trees from the moment they are born.' She smiled smugly when it became clear her words had the effect she intended.

He looked stunned for a moment. 'Ch..child..ren..?' It took every piece of restraint within her not to drop her act of seduction and laugh at his stupefied expression.

'You love me forever, do you not?' she entrapped him with words.

'Of course.' He composed himself enough to reply steadily.

Her eyes turned flirtatious. 'Well I would say that children are inevitable in such a loving relationship, wouldn't you.'

He smirked, begging to comprehend just what she was up to. 'I suppose they are.'

He turned serious then 'So you are saying that, out of all the neri in the world... you would wish for me to father your children?'

He said it with such disbelief and uncertainty that she found herself whispering discreetly 'Only you' before continuing the act. 'Meldo, my point is that if we did inevitably beget a child, I would have to teach them to embrace their Avarin side. So of course I would teach them how to speak to the trees.'

'I see.' He replied smoothly, before deviantly raising an eyebrow. 'But you do realise Melda, in order to beget that child, marriage, official or otherwise, would have to occur.'

Elenā casually pulled up her skirts, exposing her thighs, tempting him to go all the way here and now. 'I have no qualms about the 'otherwise' route.' Noldo ceremony marriage customs did not mean as much to her as they did to him, so she liked to tease in such a way. He never fell for it, he was a ner of honour if anything.

She saw him battle internally, before taking a deep breath. She had him caught off guard. Perhaps tonight he would give in to the desire she tempted him with.

Little did Elenā know that, in reality, she was the one about to be caught off guard.

He leaned in, close enough to touch, but not touching. He whispered into her neck 'But I can do one better than 'otherwise' .

Elenā was very grateful for the tree which prevented her from falling over in shock as her meldo reached into his shirt. For a moment she thought he was taking it off, but no... not quite.

He pulled out an intricate silver ring and spoke, voice full of mirth for having bested her in this teasing game.

'You have no idea how many years I have been carrying Ammë's ring around, waiting for the opportune moment. No better moment than one I have stunned you so! And...to hear you say...only me...'

Elenā , eyes wide, reached into her back pocket, confirming she too had the ring she intended for him. She pulled it out also. His eyes lit up, when he saw she was just as prepared for this moment as he.

His breath hitched.

'Elenā, will you marry me?'

sSSSssssSSSSSss

Tirion, First Age 505...

The blindfolds were almost off Siofra and Lindë immediately. They untied the knots quickest of all the competitors, Lindë had a knack with knots, due to much sailing experience.

The pair stood, stepping out of their ropes and turning to face each other.

Lindë screamed.

Siofra was at a loss as to what provoked such a reaction. Perhaps this was some trick of the Games? Or was it nerves? Or had Lindë hurt herself?

Not many seemed to have noticed, the stadium was loud with shouts and the other competitors were too busy competing.

'Lindë? What is wrong?' Siofra was a little panicked to say the least. Now was not the time for unnecessary stalls! The Telerin nís proceeded to cover her face with her hands and crouch down.

'Lindë?!', Siofra crouched down to her partner's level and gently nudged her shoulder. 'We have to go!' She nodded toward the maze. A few had already entered.

Thankfully, Lindë seemed to wake up on hearing Siofra's gentle-but-pleading voice. She sprung up. 'I am sorry...you...reminded me of someone...just a flashback...sorry c'mon let's go!

Siofra did not heed her words, she was merely relieved her partner had woken from her 'trance.'

The two níssi raced towards the maze. The trees moved before them, creating a new path just for the two, ensuring a different trial and route for each pairing of hunter and warrior.

They ran through the path before skidding to a halt at a wide, deep pool of water. What appeared to be a smooth stone wall stood in the middle of the flood, stretching upwards and blocking the níssi's view of the sky. Their path was also blocked, and both knew there had been no alternative routes behind them.

'Can you swim?' Siofra asked Lindë, before slapping herself in the forehead. 'That was a silly question, sorry.'

Lindë laughed. 'Of course! Can you?'

'Well I would say I am a brilliant swimmer, but I have never met a Teleri, so I will not dig myself a watery grave!'

Lindë smirked at Siofra's subtle boasting. 'I am guessing we have to go under. Hold your breath! Ready?'

'Wait! What about your armour!? Won't you sink?!' Siofra realised at the last minute.

Lindë flicked her silvery hair proudy. 'Telerin armour has its advantages...' was all she gave away. 'Ready?'

They both dived into the deep water. It was cold as ice. Siofra almost gasped, but she had learned in her youth that was not a good idea when one was submerged in water.

A few minutes later the two emerged...on the same side.

'There is NO way through! We scaled every inch of that damned wall twice!' Siofra's temper was beginning to get the better of her.

'We did.' replied Lindë. She fell onto her honkers and stared at the water with unseeing eyes, lost in thought. 'There must be another way...' She whispered, to herself if anyone.

Siofra began pacing back and forth, no solutions coming to mind. She shook her fist in the rough direction she recalled Ulmo sitting. 'Curse you Ulmo for this stupid, impassable-...

'...Siofra! Use your energy in thinking up solutions, rather than cursing my favourite Vala.' Lindë said the last two words extra loudly and in the direction of Siofra's fist...just in case...

'Sorry' Siofra mumbled, albeit insincerely. She crouched down to Lindë's level. 'What are you doing?'

'Listening' Lindë closed her eyes reaching her hand out, just above the water.

'To what?' Siofra wondered if this is what strangers thought of herself when witnessing her talk to fish.

'To the music of the water.' Lindë replied quietly.

'But...'

'Ssshhhh'

Siofra finally went silent, but indulged herself an almost silent 'hmmph'.

Suddenly, Linda's eyes opened. 'Look!' she pointed at the water, where the slightest whirlpool had appeared, almost invisible, but there, when the water was left long enough to still.

'YES LINDË! YOU ARE AMAZING!' Siofra dragged her partner into a fierce embrace the other was not quite ready for. 'Now tell me, what exactly does the whirlpool mean?'

Lindë would have laughed at the funny antics of Siofra if it weren't for the pressure of time pulling her forward. 'It means we have to go down, not forward.'

'Down a sinkhole?' Siofra's voice took a worried tone.

'Well...yes...but I am almost sure we will survive.' Lindë answered. 'Ready?'

I've dived into dangerous water before, with worse odds of survival Siofra muttered to herself. 'Here goes nothing.'

Down the sinkhole they went.

SSSsssSsSsSsSssSs

Kyelaeron was lucky. He always hid a small knife in a wristband he wore. His Ammë had taught him it was always a good idea to have a 'trick up his sleeve', if you like, just in case he found himself in a dangerous predicament weaponless.

Ammë's wisdom was paying off.

He freed himself from the ropes, only to find his partner, Malta, had not even got his blindfold off yet. Kyelaeron rolled his eyes, because he could- Malta could not see him. He then proceeded to free his partner.

'Your welcome.' Kyelaeron muttered, as his partner grumpily stomped the pins and needles out of his feet. Kyelaeron noticed a piece of rope still attached to Malta's long , golden hair. He made to cut it out.

'What in the name of Varda do you think you are doing?' Demanded Malta suddenly, in a commanding 'Lordly' voice.

Kyelaeron raised his hands in peace. 'There is rope knotted into your hair. It is quite heavy and will slow you down. Let me cut it out.'

From the expression on Malta's face, it was as though Kyelaeron had asked to cut out his heart.

'WHAT?! NO NO NO! MY HAIR HAS NEVER BEEN CUT AND THAT WILL NOT HAPPEN TODAY! MY FAMILY...-'

IT IS THE ARÁTO GAMES! WE DO NOT HAVE TIME FOR THIS! I AM NOT GOING TO MAKE YOU BALD, IT IS JUST A FEW LOCKS! Kyelaeron's patience was wearing thin.

'A FEW LOCKS?! NO..NO WAY... NEVER!' Malta ran his hands through his hair, as though he was defending it.

Kyelaeron sighed. He needed to make this ner see the logic here. His hair would grow back! A few strands was definately not worth losing this trial, no matter how glossy and golden the Vanyar locks shone. He decided to go with a more calm approach.

'Look, is a little snippet of hair worth elimination? Are you going to throw away your shot at victory and glory just like that? What would your family think? You know we can only partake in these Games once.' Kyelaeron argued gently.

'I would have you know my family are renowned for our esteemed, golden locks. My cousin..-'

'WE DO NOT HAVE TIME TO DRAW UP FAMILY TREES! LOOK! HALF THE COMPETITORS HAVE ALREADY ENTERED THE MAZE!' Kyelaeron knew he should not have lashed out, but in his defense, what sort of competitor would start boasting before they had even began the trial properly?

Malta proceeded to sulk like a scolded spoilt child, 'If you so much as touch my hair, I will refuse to compete and will sit here until the trial is over, and we will both be knocked out.' He crossed his arms and sat on the grass.

'So you are saying your hair is more important than your pride? Because believe me partner, if you back out without even trying, you will be laughed at and mocked.' Kyelaeron tried manipulation tactics one final time.

'My hair is my pride' was the proud and infuriating response he received back.

Kyelaeron raked a hand through his hair. 'Fine, we can leave the rope in. It will not slow us anymore than this.'

Malta snorted 'Yes and with the weight of the rope I will be bald by the time we reach the centre. No way. He shook his head.

Kyelaeron punched the ground in anger. The last pairing, save them, disappeared into the maze. He wondered was there any hope in trying. Despair flooded his heart. He had wanted to do so well, make the hunters proud. And Vayelya...Vayelya...Ai Valar if this is how I lose she will never let me forget it!

'What would you have me do then?' Kyelaeron muttered, shoulders slumped, defeated. Malta paused for a moment, before replying 'There is only one thing to do.' He proceeded to turn around and point to the intricately tangled hair and rope. 'You will have to gently undo it.'

'You cannot be serious!' Kyelaeron punched the air this time. He was never very good with hair. His Ammë always did it for him, and when his mother left, Aranya took over.

Malta's expression was deadly serious however. Kyelaeron found himself sorting a mess of golden hair and rough brown rope.

He could hear Vayelya laughing in the crowd.

He was glad Aranya was not here to see this.

A few minutes later, as the two finally made their way into the maze, Malta spoke suddenly. 'You know...you remind me of someone.'

Kyelaeron, running ahead, only had time to mutter 'Oh really.'

'Yes'. Malta answered. 'My cousin, who was in the final of the Games had an otor...-'

'Malta, in the nicest way possible, can we talk about such things after the trial?' Kyelaeron needed the Vanya to hurry up. His armour was already making it difficult for Malta to keep up with Kyelaeron's speedy pace, never mind unnecessary anecdotes.

'Fair enough.' The Vanya shut up and finally did what he was told.

Kyelaeron took a moment to ask Anya how she was doing. Perhaps she would be able to save them time by warning him of any obstacles they might face. Anya... how is your trial?

He was greeted with a string of curses. Anya... what's wrong?

I fucking hate swallow holes! was all Anya said.

SsSssSssSsSSssSsSssSsSSsss

The next obstacle Siofra and Lindë encountered was a vast stretch of marsh. Thorns lined the boundaries of the maze, ensuring no one could 'cheat' the bog. However, this time doubling back was an option. But it was clear as day the alternative path would delay them significantly. It went the exact direction the two had came from.

'Oh no.' Lindë muttered as she tested the depth of the marsh with her sword. 'Not only does it have no bottom, the mud is so thick that swimming is not an option! We would exhaust ourselves, and then sink.'

'The bog stretches as far as the eye can see. I hate to admit it, but it looks like we have no choice but to try the long way round.' Siofra sighed.

The two ran off. They had covered but a few paces when Siofra suddenly skidded to a halt, head turning sharply in the direction of the bog again.

'Siofra! Come on. If we run fast enough we may be just as quick as anyone going through the bog. Why do you stall?'

'The bog is not deep' Siofra whispered distantly, eyes lost in memory.

'Yes it is! I tested the depth.' Lindë was a little flustered.

'Listen' Siofra ordered.

'CREX CREX'

'It is merely some creature of the bog! Can we just go?' Lindë begged.

Siofra turned to face her. 'That was a corncrake. They live in grasslands and occasionally boglands, but only shallow ones.'

'I have never heard of such a bird.' Lindë seemed skeptical.

'I assure you they are real, but rare. Or my Atar is a liar. I am willing to bet that if we leapt in the direction of the call, and leapt far enough, we would land on soft but shallow ground, and would be able to pass through.

Lindë raked a hand through her silvery hair. 'It is a big risk...are you completely sure?'

Siofra narrowed her eyes. 'No, but I can find out. Do you trust me Lindë?'

'Well...yes...I trust you want to progress to the next trial as much as I.'

Siofra nodded and proceeded to mimic the bird's call. Lindë's eyes widened. She had heard stories about a legendary hunter with such talents as Siofra possessed.

Meeting said ner in person was far more tragic than legendary however.

She hated that hunter more than any other in the whole world.

Siofra, oblivious to Lindë's fascination and inner musings, turned. 'I can now assure you I have been told a clear path through the marsh. We just have to make a jump for that bit of grass over there and we are away.'

'Brilliant! Let's go!' Lindë broke into a run before leaping and, sure enough, landing on shallow ground.

'Here we go again!' Siofra copied seconds later.

sSsSsSssSSsSSsSSssSSsSSssS

Oromë watched his hunters from his privileged position, silently cheering them on, more than once coming close to leaping in frustration at what he deemed 'unfair' obstacles and pairings. For example, Kyelaeron, who was by far one of his finest hunters, being paired with that tulip of a Vanya. It simply was not fair! Kyelaeron's Games were at stake here!

He wondered would he be as bothered if Siofra found herself stuck with such a useless partner. He was torn on that front. She was his favourite, there was no denying it. And he did want her to do well, to win. However he did not want for her what came with winning. Most notably recognition and the tour of those damn tapestries!

True, Kyelaeron's partnering is not ideal, but perhaps the two can work together as well as their relatives did in their Games. Vána tried to distract him from his current anger, today had not gone very well so far. Oromë honestly had no idea how his wife could be so optimistic all of the time.

Their 'relatives' were otornos, were both on the same side in the Games, had known each other since childhood and were of similar temperament and personality. These two could not be more different. Oromë huffed.

Ever the optimist my Love. Vána replied. From this distance however, Malta looks much like his cousin, and Kyelaeron like his father. It is as though nothing has changed.

Kyelaeron's father was covered head to toe in silver armor andbwould not have been seen dead shirtless, unlike his son. Oromë at this point was arguing for the sake of it, because he was in a mood. Vána playfully smacked him, and shook her head.

Well I can see none of my efforts are improving your mood. Talk to me Meldo. Let us address the elephant in the room, or more appropriately, the hound in the arena! I know you are angry at Námo, but really, he was only doing his job, was he not?

Oromë smoothered his urge to roar 'THAT WAS NOT NÁMO'S JOB!', but just about composed himself, only for Vána. Instead he replied He had no right to plonk him in the middle of the Games! Huan's re-embodiment was taken as a piece of entertainment! It is immoral! If Tyelk...if..if his old master were here he would have sent Námo to his own Halls! What is more, if Aranya runs in to him she will recognise him, and it will be a dead giveaway! I need to get that hound out of the arena. NOW!

Oromë made to storm into the arena...again. Vána restrained him...again.

Huan obviously agreed to partake in the Games, you know what he is like, no one could force him to do anything against his will, not even...not even Tyelkormo. And the odds are very unlikely that Aranya will run into him.

Hmmph...Oromë sighed. Vána gave him a pointed look. He finally gave over.

Perhaps you are right Melda. I should stop worrying and enjoy the Games...

It was as if Eru was mocking them however, for no sooner had Oromë said these words, he looked down and spied Siofra Aranya and her Telerin partner...

...facing no other than the mighty hound, Huan.

sSsSssSsSsSssSSsSSssSSsSsSSSsS

'COME ON MALTA!'

'WE DO NOT HAVE TIME FOR BREAKS!'

'IF YOUR ARMOUR IS TOO HEAVY TAKE IT OFF!'

Kyelaeron had never felt like such an ass in his entire life. Yes, his partner was an idiot. Yes, Malta was throwing away precious time as though it were never-ending. But to be so bossy, rude and inconsiderate was not how his Ammë raised him, and he could not help but feel a little guilty. At the end of the day Malta was just a clueless young ner who was in way over his head with these Games. Kyelaeron supposed in another situation he would have found the ner endearing and funny, albeit arrogant and naive

I will apologise once we reach the centre...once we qualify for the next trial... I need to be the leader here and now...I have to be cruel to be kind...

'KEEP UP WILL YOU!?' Kyelaeron turned and yelled while running.

So occupied was Kyelaeron with his shouting of 'encoragement', that he did not realise he was running straight into a trap.

'AAAGGGHHAA SHIT!'

He found himself strung up, tangled in a fine, sticky mesh of silk, curtesy of Vairë. He dangled from a height.

Malta turned the corner and skidded to a halt, slightly breathless. His tongue was not weary however.

'Well, it looks like someone needs my help.' He gloated, savouring the moment as though they were not in the middle of an Aráto trial.

'Look, just get me down. I know I am being bossy, but this trial means a great deal to me. Please Malta!

To his relief, Malta drew his sword and had him untangled in seconds. The two peered into the distance. The near-invisble trap nets stretched as far as the eye can see.

Luckily, these two neri's weapon of choice was the sword. They made short work of the traps, all were destroyed within seconds.

sSsSSsSSSsSsSSsSsSsSsSsSsSS

'WOOF WOOF!'

Siofra found herself floored and half crushed by a huge hound. The dog pounced on her and proceeded to lick her face with the intensity of a tabby cleaning her kitten. In spite of the unnecessary delay to her trial, Siofra giggled. The dog reminded her of her childhood, of the days spent with...wait...

No! ... It cannot be you!...You left with Atto!...How are you here?!

'WOOF!'

DO NOT ignore my question, HUAN! Siofra crossed her arms and Huan was reminded instantly of her mother.

However, before Huan was compelled to answer, a scream echoed behind them. It was Lindë...again.

This time her breakdown was worse however. She looked from Huan to Siofra in shock, shaking her head, proceeding to cover her mouth with her hand.

She rambled softly. 'No no no no it is not him it is not...he is not here I am safe it is a bad dream that is a nís and a dog it is not them...no no no.'

She fell to the ground, hugging her knees and burying her head.

Nothing Siofra or Huan said could compell her to move.

sSSSssSsSsSsSSsSssS

Kyelaeron and Malta's path ended abruptly, a large wall preventing them from moving any further. An extremely narrow tunnel in the bottom of the wall was their only hope.

'It is far too small. We would never be able to crawl it. And if we drag ourselves on our bellies the friction will burn like Anar.' Malta obsereved.

'You are right. But there is one way we could make it.' Kyelaeron responded. He had an idea of how to get through this. But he did not like it. Valar knew how long the tunnel went on for. The genuine dread he used to feel when he was a boy returned.

'How can we make it...? Did I mention I am not overly fond of small spaces?' Malta winced.

Kyelaeron did not like the sound of that. The last thing he needed was for his partner to refuse point blanc to enter the tunnel. Thinking fast, he clapped Malta on the back. 'It is but a few yards. I know, us hunters are experts on tunnels. We dig them to trap...moles. This one is no more than a few yards.' He blatantly lied.

'Are you sure?' Malta was still not fully convinced.

'Certain.' Kyelaeron replied, ignoring the shake of his voice.

'Very well. How do you propose we squeeze through this death trap?' Malta asked bluntly.

It was Kyelaeron's turn to wince. If his Ammë could see him now she would laugh. 'We have to plank crawl.'

sSsSSsSssssSSsSssSsSsSsSsSSs

Lindë was seven decades old again, back in Svanhaven on that night...the night her life changed forever..the night she lost everything...the night she still dreamt of, only to wake up screaming...the night her people were massacred ...

That night was the reason she joined the warriors. She never wished to feel so helpless again. She wanted to be able to protect and fight for those she loved, as she had failed to do that night.

That night, she had gotten her hands on a bow and quiver of arrows, curtesy of a fallen foe. Running around the chaos, she found cover and began to fire.

Of course, she had never used a bow before, thus her shots hit no targets. However, by the time she was down to her final arrow, she had a decent idea of how exactly to fire and aim.

She waited for the opportune target to present itself. She would not waste this shot.

The target arrived minutes later in the form of Turcafinwë Tyelkormo. He positioned himself right under her, a perfect position for a deadly arrow to lodge itself in his head, throat or heart. Anywhere deadly, she did not mind.

She watched and waited, and was almost in awe of the third son of Fëanáro. The power and control of his movements. The strength with each fatal blow from his spear. The protectivness in his stance as he fought back to back with the pretty dark haired Princess- Lindë could not remember her name at the time- his eyes constantly scanning, looking out for each of his brothers. He was beautiful. Proud but wild, a rugged demeanour overcoming his princely one. The power that came from each sculpted muscle on his body, the smirk on his face...as if it was all a hunting game of sorts... the fair hair that flowed freely around him...To the eyes of an adventurous young nís he was beautiful.

He was also a monster.

Lindë almost blew her cover as she watched dear friends and cousins taken down eternally by his spear. She almost retched as she saw a child, younger than her lying far too still in the middle of the chaos. She almost screamed when the Princess fired an arrow which made its mark in her Atto's throat. But she did not. She would not scream. She would reverse roles. She was now the hunter and they were the prey. She had a chance to take one back for her people. She wanted to see the look on the Princess' face when she hit this beautiful monster in the throat, ending his life as fast as she had just witnessed her own Atar's end.

Tyelkormo turned slightly, and left himself exposed. He had walked himself into the perfect position for Lindë to take advantage of. She drew her bow and aimed perfectly.

She fired.

The arrow made its way to his throat. She almost breathed a sigh of relief.

But the arrow did not hit Tyelkormo. At the final moment, just as the arrowhead was nicking his skin, a huge blur pounced in front of the Prince, knocking the arrow to the ground with one swift movement of his paw.

Huan growled at her, she could not hide from him.

Tyelkormo took a moment to compose himself, the Princess covering for him. He followed Huan's gaze and met eyes with Lindë.

Lindë had never been more terrified in her life. His eyes... they were feral. They glared at her with such fire, such anger, if looks could kill she would be dead thrice over.

But a second later, on seeing Lindë was but a child, his eyes changed, and for a brief moment the sorrow and regret and guilt emanating from them almost had her in tears. His face went firm again however, and, resuming his glare, he harshly spoke one word to her, before immersing himself back into the battle.

'HIDE!'

And she did. She hid until the battle ended, until she heard her people alone screaming, crying for loved ones who they would not see alive for a long time.

She learned later that, after her misfire, Tyelkormo went on to kill her two older brothers and five of her cousins.

Lindë never forgave herself.

And she never forgot that beautiful, deadly face.

The same face Siofra had.

Was it a coincidence? Was she related to him somehow?...Impossible, there are no members of the Noldo royalty that age!... Was nerves bringing her back to a traumatic time in her past?

She did not know why her partner looked so much like Tyelkormo, but it was worth a good scream and minute for composure at the beginning of the trial.

Then she was fine, perfectly fine, the trial was going well, Siofra and herself worked brilliantly together, their skills integrating, their different personalities allowing for broader thinking. Everything was fine.

Until she found herself face to face with no other than the hound who had blocked her shot all those years ago.

Then when she saw Siofra from behind, her long hair concealing her feminine curves, conversing with the animal in a way only he was known to do so, Huan himself greeting her as though she was his old master...It was just too much... too much at once... she could not take it... flashes of the past kept hopping into her head. The more she tried to ignore it the more she thought about it. She could not take it...She broke...

Hence she found herself on the ground in the middle of the Games, hiding. Hiding the way the monster that was Turcafinwë Tyelkormo had ordered her to all those years ago...

sSSsssSsSsSsSssSs

Siofra was at a loss over what to say or do with Lindë. The Telerin nís was currently huddled on the ground, shuddering incontrollably. Siofra looked to Huan...Huan. She could not believe it. Why was he here? How? She asked herself and Huan these questions over and over. Huan refused to answer, much to her annoyance. In the midst of the mess that was trial, the emotional warrior, the long lost dog, Siofra could not help but feel deep worry in her gut. Huan was always with Atto... why has he left his side...?

Now she found herself questioning Huan yet again, what else could she do? She had no idea how to help Lindë. Please Huan! I need your help! What is wrong with her?

Huan growled in a manner that strongly resembled 'hmmph'. I am meant to be an obstacle here, Aranya, I am already neglecting my task by not pouncing constantly on you and blocking your path through...

Siofra snapped You are already enough of an obstacle! Look what you've done to poor Lindë! Valar she must be afraid of dogs the poor girl! Siofra's eyes widened as she realised something. Huan... you called me Aranya...you remember me!...You are Atar's Huan! Do not deny it!

Huan whined at Aranya's scolding, and ignored the latter part of her statement. Aranya raised an eyebrow Do not play the pity card with me mister, I know all of your tricks! You taught me them remember? She patted Huan on the head nonetheless. Huan responded by wagging his tail.

Now tell me how I fix Lindë! Siofra pleaded. Huan looked at the warrior and whined again.

'I think...' Huan began '...I think she is remembering the kinslaying at Alqualondë.' His tail stopped wagging. Siofra gasped, before exclaiming 'But why did the sight of you bring these events to the forefront of her mind?'

'I was... there...' was all Huan gave away.

In spite of the trial, Siofra had to ask... 'Atto and Ammë...they did not partake, correct? They were hunters and followed strict morals around ending lives! Tell me Lindë is only remembering you because you were there, not because you attacked!

Huan's ears drooped. Aranya... everyone who was there took part. Lindë probably sees your Atar in you also. The two of us together...I am presuming it triggered memories...'

'NO!' Siofra gasped, her chest heaving. She closed her eyes. A single tear rolled down her cheek. Huan nudged his head into her face, a gesture of comfort. Siofra slowly raked a hand through his fur.

Suddenly, she opened her eyes, determined and resolute. She crouched down beside Lindë, still trembling and now whispering to herself. She lightly shook her shoulders. 'Lindë...LINDË!...' The warrior's head shot up. '...Lindë...' Siofra said once more. '...you are here in Tirion, for the Aráto Games. No one is in danger. I am not going to hurt you, and neither is Huan. Wake up from the past! You cannot change it! All you can do now is focus on the trial ahead. If you do not feel like you cannot do it, that is fine, we will sit here until the trial is over, okay? But I think I you are a bit like me, and would be a little annoyed at yourself for not finishing a challenge hmmm? If you wish, we can ignore the race element, and just complete the trial, and we can both say, no matter what happens, that we competed in the Aráto Games. How does that sound? Talk to me Lindë!'

Lindë took deep breaths and, thanks to Siofra's gentle encouragement and assurance, began to recover. 'I am sorry...It's just...I want to finish...but...-'

'-...I know my appearance probably brings back memories of the Noldor who attacked your home...I am the one who should be sorry...What they did, all they took from you...it was sick to say the least. But Lindë, you have lost enough because of that attack, do not lose the Games because of it!'

Huan watched Siofra give her moving, motivational speech. He saw Fëanáro. The good Fëanáro. The one who would gently talk each of his sons into facing their fears; Like the time he talked Makalaurë into giving his first public performance, or the time he persuaded Maitimo pass his first Act on the Noldo Council, or the time he almost convinced Ambarussa that they could survive without each other for a week, when Telvo was partaking in a healing workshop in Valmar.

(In the end Pityo went with Telvo and they took it in turns each day as regards who attended the workshop. Apparently Pityo was the one who actually did the healing exam in the end, even though it was no secret the two of them could talk to each other from leagues away, so cheating was a major possability.)

Regardless of Ambarussa's refusal to separate, most of the time Fëanáro was able to convince each of his sons to do as he wished.

Therefore, it was no surprise to Huan when Siofra's easy persuasion did indeed work, and Lindë picked herself up. 'You are right Siofra. It is pointless to live in the past, and let my fears control my future! Let us finish this trial. I will make my family proud.'

Siofra smiled. 'You already have.'

Both níssi turned to Huan, who had positioned himself in front of the path again, ready to prevent the girls from passing. However, on seeing this. Siofra merely rolled her eyes and placed her hands on her hips again, and smirked at him the way Tyelkormo used to.

'Huan...' She said it out loud, knowing he could comprehend '...I think your presence here has delayed us long enough! And you owe it to Lindë, for partaking in Alqualondë.'

Huan stood firm for a moment, before giving in and stepping aside. He remembered Lindë from that night. The little girl who, out of all the elves fighting, came closest to sending Tyelko to the halls. Huan did not agree with what Tyelko was partaking in that night, in fact he saw Swanhaven as the death of Tyelkormo and birth of Celegorm. Nevertheless, Tyelkormo had raised him, Tyelkormo was his best friend, he could not imagine life without Tyelkormo, and so Huan could not allow that arrow to hit his master.

However, Aranya-...she has grown up so much!...-was still not impressed with his action. 'Huan' She asked sweetly, in the exact tone she used when she was barely able to reach his neck. 'Can you give us a ride please? To the centre of the maze. We both know how fast you can run. Think of it as a favour, for me...please boy?'

Huan shook his head...Námo was going to kill him... then again, he was free of Námo's grasp now, and did not intend to return to the Halls any time soon. He was free.

And how could anyone say no to those gleaming green eyes?

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The Ladies in the royal box looked on the trial with stupefied expressions. More specifically, they looked down at the two níssi who flew through the maze atop Huan. Huan. It was no secret to any elf who knew anything of the royal family that the only Elda Huan allowed on his back was Tyelkormo. On very rare occasions Írissë, but most of the time, only Tyelkormo.

Findis was the first to comment to her three law sisters in osanwë. Well now we can be sure rumours are going to spread... It looks like your work is going to be cut out for you on the Council, Anairë.

Rumours would have spread no matter what. Replied Anairë. And nothing about this scene is linking her to Írissë, only Tyelkormo. If all came to all, the people would accept a lovechild of Tyelkormo. What we really have to worry about is evidence she is the lovechild of Tyelkormo and his own cousin.

Did you see her partner? She recognised Huan and saw Siofra's resemblence to Tyelko. I fear what someone spilling her heritage too soon to her might do. My House has a history of overreacting to unexpected news... Nerdanel sighed.

True answered Eärwen. But did you see the way she was able to console Lindë, wake her from her trauma. That takes great strength and willpower. Chances are she knows her parents partook in... in Swanhaven. That is the half the shock if you ask me.

A throat cleared beside the four. The Ladies were reminded of the presence of Arafinwë, who no doubt thought them all a very quiet bunch. The King attempted to break the silence with a statement for Nerdanel.

'This may seem crazy, Nerdanel, but, the nís that currently rides Huan, is the spitting image of Tyelkormo, don't you think?'

Eärwen sniggered in her law sisters' heads. Oh my Ara! Ever the observant one!

It was all Nerdanel could do to keep a straight face as she replied. 'You don't say Ara! Well now you mention it...My Eru! She really is quite similar from a distance!'

Ara donned a confused expression as he glanced the níssi shaking with laughter.

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The tunnel was cerainly more than a few yards. The neri emerged with very sore abdomens and wounded pride, Malta may have broken down in tears halfway through, fearing the walls closing in on him. Kyelaeron had screamed louder than the day he was born when he felt something on his foot, which turned out to be a mere baby mouse.

He half wished Aranya was there, if only apologise to the little fellow for him. Then again, Kyelaeron never wanted Aranya to find out a tiny mouse provoked such a reaction.

They came to a crossroads of sorts, and were at a loss as regard which path to tread. The tunnel had completely thown their sense of direction.

Kyelaeron peered down each path. He knew they could not go back the way they came, so that left three options. He honestly had no idea where they were or where the centre was.

Suddenly, he heard a laugh he knew like the back of his hand...Aranya...

It came from the middle path. That must be the way! Aranya had already reached the centre, so if her voice was carrying from the centre to the middle path...

...They were almost there...

'It's this way! Come on!' Kyelaeron beckoned his partner. Malta did not move.

Kyelaeron turned to face him. 'Malta it is this way. I can hear my osellë! She told me a while ago in osanwë she had reached the centre! I can hear her laughter coming from this path.

Malta's eyes went wide. 'No...' he gasped. 'That is not the path.'

'Excuse me? But I heard-...'

'I heard my brother calling me from that path.' Malta pointed to the left.

Kyelaeron did not want to call Malta a liar, but he knew for a fact he had heard Anya, and he also knew she had completed her trial. For all he knew, Malta's brother may be in as much of a predicament as them.

'Malta, I definately heard her, I think..-'

'You misunderstand.' Malta interupted. 'This is the work of Irmo. He is using our loved ones as an illusion, to blur the correct path. Try connecting to your osellë in osanwë now, you will not be able. It is a trick Kyelaeron, trust me. The path we should thread is that one.' He pointed to the right, the path that called to neither of them.

Sure enough, when Kyelaeron called Anya through their bond, he received no response at all, and Anya always responded, even when she was in a bad mood.

'You...you're right.' Kyelaeron gasped. How close had he just come to blowing his chance at the Games? All in the name haste.

'KEEP UP WILL YOU?!' Malta smirked, using Kyelaeron's own words against him. 'This is the second time I have saved your proud behind!'

Malta raced ahead before Kyelaeron could say anything in response. 'Brat...' Kyelaeron mumured to himself '...look who's talking.'

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The final stage of the trial was a simple, but tiring, sprint through the forest. On emerging from the cover of the trees, the competitors would have climb onto a steep platform in order to be counted as 'finished'. Of course, one was not finished until their fellow partner was also on the platform.

Siofra and Lindë's 'sprint' through the forest was a breeze. They were not the one's sprinting. Huan carried them like the wind, and even saved them the bother of climbing onto the platform themselves. With one strong leap the hound had them at the finish line, the centre of the maze. Siofra and Lindë jumped for joy and hugged each other. To think that moments before, not even finishing was a strong possability. And here they were, the first team to finish.

Olorin released a firework, signalling one place of warrior and hunter had been taken.

The crowd went wild. Both níssi, unused to such applause stared around in awe, at a loss over what to do. Huan decided he would respond with his signature 'WOOF'! He wagged his tail. He was the real hero here after all.

Suddenly, Siofra remembered Kyelaeron, and the tricky partner he said he had. In all honesty, she had not thought about him much during the trial. She felt slightly guilty for forgetting him, but, to be fair, she reasoned she did have a lot to deal with. She made contact with him in osanwë.

Kyelaeron...?

Anya... Are you okay?

Yes! We are finished! Where are you?

Underground, in a damn tunnel! We started slow but have picked up the pace. Are many finished? He said the last part in panic.

No...just us... Hang on.. I see more pairs emerging from the woods...you still have time otorno, but hurry!

Sure enough, the next few pairs emerged from the trees. Siofra began to panic. She heard more fireworks go off. She wished she could help Kyelaeron! He could use help, like what she and Lindë had in Huan.

Huan...That was it! The answer! Huan could go fetch her otorno, save his trial, his Games!

'Huan?' she asked in her sweet voice.

'No' was the only response she received.

'But I didn-...'

'I am not a horse Aranya! I only ever let your Atar and you on my back...and...one or two exceptions. I cannot help your sworn brother.'

'Please Huan!'

'I am not as soft as your Atar! My answer will not change!'

'HHHMMMPPHHH! '

Huan shook his head, amused by Siofra's attitude.

More and more pairs clambered up on the platform. By the time twenty pairs had finished, Siofra was pacing the floor.

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Meanwhile, Kyelaeron and Malta were sprinting through the forest.

Kyelaeron counted twenty three fireworks. That meant only two more pairs would qualify...

BANG CRAAACCK BANG BOOOM!

...only one more pair would qualify...

Both he and Malta were going as fast as they possibly could... but he knew it would not be enough. The woods were full of partners absolutely legging it, hoping for that final chance to succeed onto the next round. They were losing ground on other competitors, who were quicker on foot.

Kyelaeron's strength when it came to running was always long-distance, never speed. There were over one hundred hunters he knew that could sprint faster than him. As regards Malta, well, his armour was so heavy he was struggling to keep up with even Kyelaeron.

He almost felt like giving up, as he saw the furthest pair almost at the edge of the trees. Yards upon yards between them. It was no use! He was doing his best and it was not enough! It was over! He was so close but his tune had finished. Malta had slowed significantly and was now trailing behind. Once the furthest pair reached the edge of the clearing Kyelaeron would stop. Once they were out of the trees, he knew they would be too far ahead...He would stop once the pair reached the edge of the trees...the trees.

Kyelaeron's drooping head snapped up so fast he heard his neck crack. The TREES!..That was the solution! He remembered his mother's words:

The trees are our survival, our allies. Always listen to them onya.

Kyelaeron smirked. The trees were certainly his allies today! And they were about to ensure his survival in the Games!

He skidded to a halt, reached out with his fëa, greeted the trees with a gentle music, told them his plight, suggested how they might help.

He let his mind flow freely, released all emotions. He embraced the connection to the forest his Avarin heritage ensured. He let everything go.

His sliver eyes glowed with a sheen of light for a split second, as power raced through him. He reached his hand to the sky, before slamming it down in a motion that spelled power and control.

Every pair of racing hunter and warrior in the woods screamed in shock, save for Kyelaeron and Malta. Vines and branches grasped each opponent of Kyelaeron, hoisting them high in the trees, refusing to loosen their grasp.

With no competitors to threaten them, Kyelaeron and his partner made their way to the platform, Malta shaking like a leaf.

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Vayelya was jumping up and down in her seat. Where is he?

The final piece of forestry before the centre was just out of view for her. It was at times like these she missed being a 'Lady'. Nobles got the best seats, always.

The firework went off, reminding her twenty-four out of twenty-five had made it through.

There was only one space left! What in the name of Arda was Kyelaeron doing!? Surely he was as good a fighter as his Atar!?

Perhaps my dear nephew should have stuck with music?

Then again, his partner was not the easiest to work with.

Vayelya decided to blame the partner for everything, and began muttering curses under her breath, subconsciously insulting each and every Vanya that walked on Arda. She stopped when she realised that half the seats around her were in fact occupied by Vanyar, and they were all glaring at her as though she were a mad nís.

She slumped into her seat and sighed, it was only a matter of time now. She could not bear the thought of Kyelaeron losing. She had seen the hope in his eyes, hope for victory.

She spied a pair about to emerge from the woods.

It was not her nephew.

Vayelya could not take it anymore. She stood up in her seat and began blatantly shouting at the pair to 'fall over' or 'stop running' and the likes.

Then the trees began to shake.

She looked on in awe as vines and branches began to swing from nowhere. She heard the crowd gasp collectively. Even the Valar were leaning in from their seats. She heard screams, and next time she looked, the pair on the edge were high up in the trees.

There was magic at work here... Well Vayeyla knew it wasn't really magic, more like a deep connection to the nature of Arda, but that is what she had called it, when she witnessed her osellë converse with trees. Sometimes Vayeyla was on the receiving end of a vine that refused to put her down, mostly a punishment for teasing her osellë and her brother about their romantic relationship.

This 'magic' screamed Elenā. Vayeyla knew only one person in the Games who could be the reason for this.

She watched with pride as Kyelaeron and his Vanya partner emerged from the forest. The partner looked a little pale, but awestruck at the same time. He stayed alongside Kyelaeron, despite her nephew's slow but steady pace.

She saw Aranya, who she had recognised from the opening ceremony, halt her pacing, gasp in shock, then burst into tears, all while jumping up and down and squeezing the hand off the nís who she had been partnered with.

She saw the Valar. Nessa had a strangely proud look on her face. Yavanna looked intrigued. Tulkas seemed in disbelief at the fact that Kyelaeron's partner was going to proceed to the next round. Manwë and Varda and most of the others politely applauded.

Vána jumped up from her seat and started shouting in joy, before remembering that she was not supposed to have favourites. Oromë met eyes with his sister and nodded, before joining his wife in celebration, it was a brilliant performance after all. A Game well played. A Trial well done.

Kyelaeron ignored the crowd of thousands watching, applauding and cheering him. He half closed his eyes in concentration, keeping an arm outstretched towards the forestry. He slowly reached the platform ensuring both he and his partner managed to climb on before he finally released his grip, dropped his hand. The trees reacted immediately, gently lowering the now eliminated competitors to the ground. They made their way to the clearing, exhausted after fruitless struggles to be released from the trees' grasp. However, they held no malice towards the ner that bested them.

Instead, they began to clap.

Aranya started clapping like crazy too, before slamming herself into Kyelaeron. The two laughed and cried simultaneously.

Elves all around her began to stand and clap. The applause was thunderous. What an achievement! A standing ovation, from all peoples of Aman!

Kyelaeron nearly fainted when he looked up, only to see each and every one of the Valar standing and applauding him also.

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Translations:

Orqui- Orcs

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ANOTHER CHAPTER!

I must say I found this one difficult to write, I think it was inventing all the different obstacles in the trial that got me. Needless to say, at 5 am I am glad this is finished!

More good parenting with Tyelko and Írissë:

Rule 1. It is always a competition.

Rule 2:Act like kids all the time and your kid will grow up to be a big kid at heart

Rule 3:Alcohol is the solution to everything

I find the Tyelko and Itarillë 'dolly tea party' adorable and idk why but it makes me wanna cry.

I wonder who braids Fingon's hair? coughRussingoncough

I feel like Elenā has had the most unlucky two lives ever! Even though I guess she was happy in Aman (even when separated from her husband, 'cos she had Kyelaeron). On the bright side, the fact that Elena's family is in Endor can only mean even more long lost family to reunite with if/when Siofra and Kyelaeron go to Middle Earth.

Sorry if the very angsty death description and PTSD scenes triggered you...and the slightly cringey romance *cough* 'silver oh I love silver silver lalalala *cough*

I am pretty sure in LACE that proposals include the exchange of rings from both the ner and the nís...but then again I think that is for planned bethrols...Anyway for this proposal there are two rings and I have done my best to stick to Tolkien's marriage 'laws'.

Lindë...poor poor Lindë. Like talk about facing ones fears, nightmares and past all in one day!

I love how Siofra immediately puts the blame on Huan like 'WTF Huan Lindë here is ofc afraid of dogs!'

Also, Huan's epic failure in pretending not to be Huan. He literally goes 'Woof woof oh HI ARANYA!...oh shit..I mean Woof.'

Ara...oh Ara... keep up with the gossip already!

Oromë and Vána are creeping their way up to being my favourite couple. The chemistry is hilarious like I just can't.

Malta...I really don't know what to say... I mean, if he didnt delay so long with his hair maybe Kyelaeron would never have got to have his heroic ending to the first trial?

Vayeyla at the Games is me at a football match.

And Kyelaeron, the tree magic thing is pretty cool I have to admit!

Thank you all for reading, hope ye all enjoyed this chapter. Let me know what ye think!

SiofraMarina x