A/N: Well it's my birthday today :) but it's been a crazy few months and I've had precious little time to write – so no exclusive birthday fic this time round but a new chapter instead. I hope you enjoy!

Ìdhes watched as the Prince startled then whirled round to face her. His ever expressive blue eyes were wide – a hunted and guilty look in them - as he stared for a long moment seemingly in shock before he then began to hastily and clumsily try to drag himself to stand.

"Oh no Ernil-nin – please do not trouble yourself to stand merely at my presence." Ìdhes hurriedly waved Legolas back down to sit and instead crossed the room to sit beside him on the bed. She left ample space between them as she sensed how flustered her Prince was just then and decided to give him time to compose himself and directed her gaze out through the open balcony doors.

Ìdhes could not help but smile at the stunning view that greeted her. "Tis a marvellous day is it not Ernil-nin? My home land is truly blessed with spectacular views."

Legolas stared hard at Lady Ìdhes for another moment; stunned by the fact that she was here – in his rooms, sitting next to him – and commenting on the weather of all things.

At length some remembrance of propriety returned to him and Legolas gave himself a shake before he resumed his struggle once again to rise to his feet all whilst he ignored Lady Ìdhes' protests that he need not bother. Legolas took a deep breath and turned to face Lady Ìdhes, back ramrod straight with his right hand placed solemnly palm down against his heart.

"Lady Ìdhes it is with great and deep regret that I, Ernil Legolas Thranduilion, Captain of the 12th Elite Archery Troop of the Doron Regiment give you news that your son - Hir Faervel Mallossonion – has passed into the care and keeping of Lord Námo. Gwannast vê in battle and brought full honour to the Woodland Army. You have the deepest condolences of myself, the 12th Elite Archery Troop, the Crown Commander and the King of the Woodland Realm."

Legolas dipped his head and kept it bowed to Lady Ìdhes and let out a slow, tremulous breath relieved he had managed to deliver this most horrid and dreadful of statements properly and without any fumbling or slips. Now he needed only to await her judgement.

Ìdhes looked at the crown of the bowed golden head sadly. She hadn't wanted nor needed Legolas to do this; to strain himself like this - for Ìdhes could see it was a strain on her poor Prince - who though he looked much recovered was obviously not yet quite one hundred percent well again. But she had seen from the determined set of his jaw and dogged look in his eyes that this meant much to Legolas – to formally deliver to her the news of Faervel's death as required of him as Captain and so Ìdhes let him and hoped it would help him find some peace, some closure, some…something that would chase away the guilt and distress in his eyes.

"I thank you for telling me Ernil-nin. It gives me peace to know Faervel died well and with honour."

The Prince looked up at her then, at last letting his head rise and the formal stance fall away and without it he looked so…so sad…so broken that it was all Ìdhes could do to hold back her tears at the sight. She hadn't seen him look so distraught since his Naneth's own funeral all those long centuries ago and suddenly Ìdhes could bear it no more.

Propriety could hang.

Ìdhes reached out and crushed the Prince to her as she enveloped him in a warm hug. "Ai penneth, I am sorry for all you have had to bear – I know Vel's loss cannot have been easy for you either."

For a moment Legolas hardly dared breathe. This – this was not what he'd been expecting. To once again be caught up in one of Lady Ìdhes' famously bone crushing hugs was far more than he'd dared hope to ever have again and as the loving feel of it sank in Legolas lost what little composure he had left.

"Please Lady Ìdhes, please, please I'm so sorry – truly, truly. Annin forgive me I beg you." Legolas sucked in a deep heaving breath as he sobbed. "Goheno nin,goheno nin annin. I know I should have done better by him and I tried, I tried I promise you I tried, but I am no healer – please, please I beg you – please forgive me."

Ìdhes frowned even as she gently manoeuvred them both back toward the bed where she rocked the sobbing Prince in her arms slowly and gently. Her surprise at the way Legolas had started sobbing into her shoulder as she hugged him had quickly given way to genuine worry as the Prince begged her forgiveness over and over again, his guilt a real and palpable thing that Ìdhes could almost feel herself.

"Ai penneth why do you beg me so?" Ìdhes pulled back from Legolas slightly and swiped his tears away with a twin movement of her thumbs. "What happened to Vel that causes you to feel so guilty?"

Legolas bit his lip so hard it almost split. Here it was, the moment he had long dreaded – telling kind Lady Ìdhes how he'd failed her equally kind son. With a deep breath that turned into a sob Legolas began.

Ìdhes kept a reassuring arm wrapped tight around the crying Prince as she listened to his tale. It was…difficult to hear – after all no Naneth ever wanted to be told the circumstances of their child's death but Ìdhes could not help but feel touched as she heard how Legolas had held Faervel as he slipped away. She was glad to know her son had had that comfort – that he'd not had to face his end alone. More than that however as Legolas finished his tale Ìdhes still could not see how the Prince might be at fault or for what exactly he wanted forgiveness.

The healer gently tilted Legolas' head upwards from where it had been buried in her shoulder so she could look into watery blue eyes. "I am glad Vel had you with him in his last moments penneth. I am glad he felt love at his passing and that he was not alone. But…Ernil-nin I must say I still do not understand why you beg me for forgiveness. I see naught in your tale that puts you to fault for Faervel's death."

Legolas stared at the Noldor elleth with the compassionate grey eyes before him. How could Lady Ìdhes not see Vel's death was down to him?

"Can you truly not see Hiril-nin? You need not be kind to me and spare my feelings merely because I am your Prince or because I was Faervel's friend nor even because I still reside in the healing halls. You need not spare me your disappointment nor your anger."

Inexplicably Lady Ìdhes merely shook her head. "I hold no disappointment nor anger for you penneth. Why should I? Again, I tell you I do not see how Faervel's passing is to be laid at your door. Should one be blamed merely because they were present when tragedy struck?"

"But do you not see Lady, that tragedy would not have struck had I been stronger – not allowed myself to be taken or had even managed to escape on my own…Vel would not have needed to come haring after me into danger. Or…or had Vel not been my bodyguard. He'd not have been beholden to come after me unto his death." Legolas gazed at Lady Ìdhes as he beseeched her to understand.

Ìdhes stroked a loose strand of Legolas' hair back behind the pointed ear and gave him a sad smile. She had done her Prince an injustice - they all had - and it was high time it was put right.

Ìdhes took a deep breath and settled herself as she pulled the Prince's hands into her own and began to rub soothing circles into the knuckles. "Faervel became interested in the idea of becoming your bodyguard early on in your warrior training. He knew you'd be appointed one sooner or later as your sister Riel Rithel had before – most likely once you started going out on novice patrols. So he took all the extra lessons needed, determined that he'd be able to qualify and partake in the Trials. Do you not recall a period where he was ever so busy?"

Legolas nodded slowly; he did remember, for he remembered thinking Faervel mad for willingly picking up so many extra lessons when he unlike Legolas was not duty bound to study them. Legolas as Prince had had to study the extra languages – Quenya, Westron and Khuzdul – along with historical and social studies as well as diplomacy and Sindar high-society lessons. They had severely cut into his free-time, a fact that the then young Prince had been very resentful over and so he'd been surprised to be joined in most of the lessons by Faervel. (Aeglosson had been present too but as grandson of the King's Regent and being from a very politically inclined family that had held no great surprise for Legolas.)

Legolas shook his head in disbelief then, "Vel knew all those centuries ago that he wanted to be a Royal Bodyguard?"

"Not just a Royal Bodyguard," Lady Ìdhes corrected gently, "he wanted to be your bodyguard. It was a dream long held and he studied and worked hard toward it."

Legolas nodded again, "I remember – I hardly saw him in the lead up to our novice entrance ceremony. He always had some lesson or training session going on…and…and you are saying it was all a lead up to qualify for becoming my bodyguard?"

Lady Ìdhes smiled, "Yes, for the qualifications for becoming a Royal Bodyguard are steep."

"But…but why?"

Legolas could not get his head around it. He'd never understood his Adar's Elite or even his sister's own guard Arlä. He had never understood what it was about such a dangerous job that had attracted them. Of course the pay was good – Thranduil provided well for all his staff but especially so the Royal Bodyguards; and the Prince knew there was a certain honour and respect that the other maethyr held for those of the Royal Bodyguards. But still, Legolas could not see that any of that would have attracted Faervel – a Lord from not one but two noble houses with riches enough in his own right and his friend had had a glamour covering the mark of being a Royal Bodyguard; none had known, so it could not be the esteem of his peers that had attracted his friend to such a position either.

Ìdhes could see the confusion in her Princes' eyes and gripped his hands a little tighter as she willed him to understand. "Faervel had once been painfully shy and as a result he'd been a very lonely elfling until he met you. You befriended him and dragged him out of his shell and were so, so kind to him. You brought him fully into your world, truly embraced him as a friend and thus encouraged him to make a great many others; but he never forgot it was you Ernil-nin with your open, loving heart that had first reached out to befriend him and that meant a great deal to Vel."

"He grew to love you as a brother and when he realised exactly what your being Prince meant and the potential dangers it could entail he decided that he would do his utmost to protect you. To ensure that your smile and love and friendliness would remain for him and everyone else to enjoy." Ìdhes paused to look Legolas in the eyes, "Faervel truly cherished you Ernil-nin. And so to be a Royal Bodyguard became his aim and he worked at it hard and it paid off in the end for he came top in the Trials."

"Yes, Adar did say Vel was one of the best they had ever seen to take the Trials."

Ìdhes allowed her pride in her son to show in a wide smile. "Yes Faervel excelled, came top in the Trials and so was to be your bodyguard except that the King called him in and said that he was going to refuse Vel entry to the Royal Bodyguards."

Legolas leaned forward enraptured by the tale he'd yet to hear in full.

"Your Adar said that though Vel had indeed done exceptionally well he felt that he was too young for such a serious undertaking and that he did not want your friendship to be ruined." Ìdhes threw a cheeky grin at the Prince, "The King explained how you were adamantly against having a bodyguard you see, and that he did not think you would take it well if Faervel were to be announced as yours."

Legolas gave an acknowledging tilt of his head; he could not disagree – he would not have taken such news well at all.

"Faervel was devastated – he had worked hard seemingly for naught and he came home to me in a flood of tears and my heart bled for him; though I must admit as his Naneth there was a part of me that was greatly relieved for I did know what a dangerous undertaking such a role would be. Yet despite my own fears Vel had worked hard and this had been his dream for decades. So I put aside my own selfish desires and begged an audience with the King so that we might plead Vel's case."

Legolas looked down saddened, "And you succeeded."

Ìdhes nodded, "We did. Faervel was the perfect candidate for he'd trained hard to be so and more than that he loved you. For him it would not just be about riches or the prestige of the position but he would actually and truly care for your well-being and in the end that is what swayed your Adar. He could see none other would care for you so completely. And Faervel, well, he was ever so proud to be not just a member of the Royal Bodyguards but yours in particular."

"I still wish Adar had stuck to his original decision and said 'no' for then Vel might still be alive were he not beholden to oaths to protect me."

Lady Ìdhes shook her head, "I do not believe that would be the case penneth; for Vel's love for you would still be as strong – he may well have still set out after you. We will never know for we cannot predict such things. I know his loss pains you but I believe the secrecy has caused you great pain also and for that I do sincerely apologise. It was never the intention to keep this hidden from you for as long as it was."

Legolas reeled at the apology and felt some of the old anger stir at his Adar. "Nay Hiril-nin, the secrecy is hardly your fault. For if the word of your King commanded it to be so what could you do but obey?"

Ìdhes looked at the Prince in concern – evidently this was a sore point for him and something he'd already (most likely heatedly) discussed with the King. "You should forgive your Adar penneth. For you have forgiven Faervel his role in this have you not?"

Legolas nodded. "Aye, Vel asked me for forgiveness in his death and I gave it to ease his mind – though I maintain it was not his fault nor was it yours. Adar commanded you both to secrecy – you could hardly have disobeyed a direct order from the King." Legolas could not keep the hopeless bitterness from his voice.

"You are correct, the King did ask us to be silent on the matter – that he would speak to you of it himself – but when it became apparent that years, decades even had passed and you were still none the wiser one of us could have spoken up. Not to you, true, for that would violate what the King had asked of us but I could have spoken to the King of it at any time and so too could have Faervel. Do not place all blame upon your Adar; we – both Faervel and I – were just as complicit in this."

Legolas still felt a helpless anger. "But it was Adar's idea to lie to me."

Ìdhes fixed the Prince with a firm but kind look. "We all lied to you – and for that penneth I am truly sorry – but you must forgive all of us or none of us at all. That is only fair. If your Adar is not spared your wrath then neither should we be. You may not withhold the same punishment from us merely because Vel has passed and I am bereaved." Ìdhes gentled her look and stroked the knuckles of the Prince's hands still held firmly in hers. "Forgive your Adar penneth – I know not why he never got round to telling you but I know one thing for certain and that is that he would never have done it maliciously. King Thranduil would never willingly hurt you. He loves you far too much for such a thing."

Legolas sighed wearily and looked down at their joined hands. "Adar and I have…spoken about this…he said much the same as you – that he did not intend to hurt me nor deceive me for so long…he has asked for my forgiveness…"

Lady Ìdhes cupped Legolas' cheek, "Of course I cannot tell you what to do but I will ask that you consider your Adar's words and mine and forgive us both as you say you have with Vel. I know we ask much – but…well…I would still ask."

"I forgive you Lady Ìdhes, not that I feel there was anything to forgive on your part but you have asked and so I forgive you – as for Adar… well, I will tell you what I have told him. I will forgive him – in time – for I know he loves me but it is all still so near and fresh…and…and so it will take a while to put it behind me and forgive him fully. But rest assured that I shall do so."

"That is perfectly understandable penneth. You have a gracious heart and I am most glad for it." Ìdhes smiled at the Prince relieved and happy to have this long held secret out in the open and put to bed and even more glad that Legolas had found it in him to forgive her role in it.

"Lady Ìdhes…do you…can you…"

Ìdhes rubbed the hands in hers even more firmly, "What is it penneth – what do you wish? Speak freely."

"Do you forgive me?"

Ìdhes blinked utterly surprised and stunned that the young blonde before her still felt the need for her absolution. The again, she supposed, she hadn't actually given him an answer. And so Ìdhes reached out and crushed the Prince to her once more, determined that her answer be loud and clear and leave no room for any misinterpretation.

"Ai penneth – there was never anything to forgive. I do not hold you at fault for Vel's death and neither should you hold yourself responsible. Release yourself from this burden Ernil-nin and let yourself heal once and for all."

Legolas only clutched at her more tightly in reply and Ìdhes smiled into his soft golden hair. "Now – shall I give word for the servants to bring lunch?"

Legolas' earlier hunger returned then with a vengeance – now that he was free of all the desperate guilt that had so loaded him down. "Yes please Hiril-nin, I am famished!"

~o~

Lunch passed slowly but pleasantly between the two as they ate the rather delicious offerings that had been placed before them and Lady Ìdhes filled the delicate silences with tales of her Imladris youth and upbringing.

She had an enraptured audience in the Prince who hung on her every word as she told of her loving if proud Noldor family, the fact she'd been apprenticed for a while as a jewel smith in a show of her Noldo love for pretty baubles until both she and her master had come to the firm conclusion she'd never be any good at the art of it. Told how she'd then moved on to study her second love under Hir Elrond and how she'd blossomed to become a fine healer in her own right.

Legolas soaked it all up – awe and amusement clear in his eyes and Ìdhes hoped that as she decided to take their talk in another direction the Prince would not sink back down into the sadness he'd so recently shaken off.

"So penneth…you still lie abed in the healing halls of Hir Elrond the greatest healer in all of Arda. You must have been gravely injured indeed if even under the hands of my old master you still linger here."

Legolas' face did fall, but not as far as Ìdhes had feared and the young blonde reeled off a frighteningly long list of hurts and ailments though it pleased the Noldor elleth to hear and see that her Prince had recovered from all but the two most grievous to his shoulder and ankle.

"And how do those injuries fare? Are they healing well?" Ìdhes inquired.

Legolas nodded. "I am not far off full recovery from those injuries now – I spend long hours every morn with Elladan and Elrohir doing physiotherapy to help me regain my full range of motion again. I was worried in particular over my shoulder in terms of me being an archer but the twins and indeed Hir Elrond have assured me all will be well and that I shall suffer no permanent harm from either injury."

"I am most pleased to hear that Ernil-nin," Lady Ìdhes smiled. "I am also happy to hear you have made friends here and not been lonely."

The Prince grinned back, "Aye, the twins have been by my side through all this – they kept me great company prior to Adar's arrival – when I was truly alone here. They're great fun; Elrohir is the livelier of the two, very outgoing and friendly, he's a healer as well. He reminds me somewhat of Vel. Then there is Elladan – he can come across somewhat sombre and even a little cold but once he opens up he is as friendly as his gwanunig and he has his own wicked sense of humour as well." Legolas paused in his gushing over his newfound friends and gave Lady Ìdhes a serious look, "They have been really very kind to me – I do not think I shall ever be able to repay them for all they have done."

"If they are anything like my old master they will want nothing in return save your continued friendship."

"Well they shall have it forevermore. I am truly in their debt and besides that they are really enjoyable company."

"I should like to meet them properly if you would not mind making the introductions Ernil-nin, I should like to thank them for what they did for both you and Faervel."

Legolas agreed easily as he set aside his glass, "Of course Hiril-nin, as I say I have therapy sessions with them every morn and I can arrange for you to meet them after tomorrow's if that is agreeable with you."

Ìdhes nodded. "Hannon-le penneth – that would be most kind of you. And speaking of your therapy sessions – you say they go well? I only ask as I wish to bury Faervel within the next week or two at most and of course I wish you to be well enough to attend the ceremony. I will put it off if you are still unwell enough to attend by that time, so there is truly no pressure on you Ernil-nin, but…well…what do you think?"

"You are most kind Lady to consider me so for I know it cannot have been easy for you to have had Faervel's hröa uncommitted to Mandos for so long. I shall be ready - I will put in extra time in my rehabilitation sessions and do all I can to be able to stand under my own power when you hold Vel's funeral. I know if I am determined and work harder I will be back upon my own two feet soon and at last leave these healing halls behind me."

Lady Ìdhes gave a small encouraging smile, "Good, good. It pleases me to hear you get ever better penneth and your strong will is to be admired but do remember what I have said – I shall hold back having the funeral until you are well enough to attend it. So please, do not rush yourself and cause a relapse."

"La fael Hiril-nin." Legolas nodded seriously even as he determined in his heart that he would be ready and able as soon as was elvenly possible.

~o~

The days passed in a blur for Legolas as he upped the intensity of his rehabilitation and focussed solely on his recovery. He'd had to be reminded at points by the twins, his Adar, Lord Elrond and Thanniel not to overdo it which had of course lent him some frustration but at last his hard work and dedication had paid off.

It had been ten days since Lady Ìdhes had told him of her wishes for Faervel's funeral and though Legolas had hoped to be well enough earlier, he was still pleased that he had now been deemed well enough to leave the healing halls within the two week time frame Lady Ìdhes had previously highlighted to him.

Now the Elven Prince smiled to himself as he made his slow yet steady way through the vast halls of the Last Homely House, careful to follow the instructions he'd been given for finding Lady Ìdhes' rooms.

He came upon the desired door and gave it a firm knock even as he hoped the kindly Noldor elleth was indeed in her rooms and that he'd not be forced to wander the vast house and grounds in search of her. Though Lord Elrond had at last deemed him well enough to leave his healing halls that very morning, Legolas still sported a limp and tired far more easily than before his ordeal.

"I'll be but a moment," Lady Ìdhes called out and Legolas was delighted – pleased he'd be spared an exhausting search.

A moment later the door swung open and Legolas could not help the grin that split his face clean in half at the look of surprise Lady Ìdhes gave him.

"Suilad Hiril-nin, I am well and have been set free at last. Hir Elrond's healing halls are my home no longer."

~o~

Ìdhes stood still in a moment of shock at seeing her Prince standing in front of her under his own power before his happy words registered in her mind and she too beamed back at him before she crushed him in a powerful hug.

"What wonderful, wonderful news Ernil-nin."

And it really was good news; to see the Prince back up and about again (though she noticed a limp as she invited him in). It was good to know that he'd been released from the healing halls and would soon be completely well enough to undertake the long journey back to the Wood.

Ìdhes held Legolas at arm's length as she looked him over properly. "I bet your Adar is so pleased."

"Aye, that he is. His smile was even wider than mine if you can believe it."

Ìdhes laughed aloud, "Oh I can believe it! Trust me penneth – there is nothing better for a parent than the sight of your child hale and whole."

And with those words Ìdhes sobered a little, for the time had now come. Deep sadness slowly filled her as she realised that she could no longer put off Faervel's funeral nor indeed her own departure from Arda. She had wanted the Prince to be well enough to be there and attend the ceremony…and well…now he was. It was time for her to set things in motion and begin to make her final preparations.

The days since Ìdhes had first arrived had been a mostly pleasant time spent catching up with centuries old friends and wandering and relearning her old Valley home (anything to distract from her ever present grief) yet now she would have to leave it all behind again – this time in a farewell that would be permanent and infinitely harder.

But, Ìdhes reminded herself firmly, there was still joy, hope and the promise of happiness to be found for her once she got past the upcoming difficult days ahead. For she would sail and there in the Blessed Realm she would once again have her family beside her – she knew they'd all be waiting for her – and with any luck so too would be her beloved Mallosson. It had been centuries since his death and Ìdhes hoped that by now her dear husband had been released from the Halls; his love and that of her family would be a balm to her soul as she waited for Faervel's own release from Mandos.

Yes, such was the blessing of the elves – they had Elven Home across the Seas and true peaceful eternity to spend with all their loved ones – and that would now have to be Ìdhes' hope; would have to be what she held onto in these last few trying days upon Arda.

With a deep breath and the thought of joyful reunions to come Ìdhes centred herself and forced a smile, "Well then penneth, as you are now hale enough to attend I must begin to put things in place for Vel's funeral. Would you…would you mind accompanying me to the Halls of Rest?" Ìdhes took another tremulous breath, "I must inform them that the time has come."

"Of course Hiril-nin. Of course I shall accompany you."

~o~

Legolas watched the Imladris Halls of Rest grow ever closer as he and Lady Ìdhes made their slow yet steady way toward it and the blonde struggled to suppress the shivers of dread and fear that snaked down his back. He'd agreed to accompany Lady Ìdhes without a thought back in her rooms – she'd looked so very sad – he'd not been capable of refusing her. Yet now he could not help the fear that clutched at his heart.

Legolas had not laid eyes on Faervel since Elladan and Elrohir had so tenderly wrapped him up after his passing and he'd been far to unwell to go and see his friend once they had arrived in Imladris. (And truthfully even had he not been bedbound Legolas doubted he'd have found the strength of will to go and look upon his best friend - still, grey and cold in death.)

Every step closer to Vel's lifeless hröa made Legolas feel sick to his stomach but he was determined to stand at Lady Ìdhes' side and put on a brave face for her.

Which was of course an easier thing to decide than to actually do; all too soon they were in the chill, cheerless room with Faervel…nay Faervel's hröa…on a raised marble slab before them.

Legolas could not hope to stop his tears at the sight.

Unsurprisingly nor could Lady Ìdhes and Legolas offered the only comfort he could and caught hold of the kindly healer's hand, held it tight and murmured prayers whilst she spoke in a quiet, strangled voice with the stewards of the Hall.

~o~

"It will be well."

Legolas sniffed and looked up from where he'd held his head bowed as he'd prayed protection and salvation over Faervel's fëa. He'd been lost in his prayers, hadn't even heard the stewards leave and now knew not what to say to the surprisingly optimistic words Lady Ìdhes had uttered.

As though she sensed his unease Lady Ìdhes pulled Legolas closer by their still joined hands and wrapped an arm around him. "Things are sad now but they will be well again. Weeping endures only for a time before joy comes again anew. I shall sail and Vel shall be released and we will be together once more; and you too shall meet him again – though hopefully you shall sail after you have lived a long and full life here."

Legolas listened as the genteel elleth at his side took in a deep bracing breath. "We are elves and the Valar have blessed us with Aman and a life to look forward to after this one here on Arda. So though it hurts ever so dreadfully now we can still hold to hope."

Legolas nodded slowly; deep down the tales of Aman just now were nothing but cold comfort to him. He was not likely to see those lands nor the dear ones who'd departed for them for millennia (if fate and life were kind to him here on Arda). Still, he could see how they might hold hope and something to look forward to for those who'd grown weary of this world and so the Prince simply bowed his head once more before he joined Lady Ìdhes in one final prayer.

For him the hurt and sorrow he felt would linger on a good long while before joy returned in full, but Legolas was glad that for Lady Ìdhes at least the worst would soon be over and she'd be able to sail and hopefully find truth in the tales of the peace and happiness of the Blessed Realm.

~o~

"Are you sure you will be well Lady?"

The Prince was looking at her with grave concern etched upon his young face and Ìdhes could hardly blame him; talking with the stewards had been hard, seeing Faervel again – lifeless and cold – had been hard and now to speak to her former master, Hir Elrond, to confer over and confirm Faervel's funeral would be just as hard. Ìdhes could only imagine how she looked, what grief she held in her eyes and upon her face. But she was determined to put no more sorrow upon her kind Prince and do this last bit on her own (she had seen clearly his struggle in the Halls of Rest).

"I will be just fine Ernil-nin. I have taken up most of your day today already and with such dread things too. Go and find your friends and spend some time in the comfort of their presence. What is to come will be difficult enough without you needing to endure this as well. It shall only be a short meeting besides, so don't worry - I promise you Im maer."

Legolas gave her a small, unconvinced smile but left nonetheless after he sketched a small bow to her hand on heart. Ìdhes smiled after him and only when the Prince had turned the corner and was well and truly out of sight and elven earshot did she raise her hand to knock at the door before her.

There was a soft ruffling of what sounded like clothes and paper along with a clinking of glasses before the door opened to reveal her former master and behind him Ìdhes was able to see he'd not been alone – King Thranduil was straightening his robes and sitting up straighter from where he'd doubtlessly been lounging prior to her interruption.

Ìdhes instantly felt bad for her unintended disturbance, "Oh my apologies hirrim-nin, I did not intend to disturb you – please, I can come back some other time."

"Nay Ìdhes you do not disturb us, come – sit. Tell me what it is you need." Elrond threw open the door wider and beckoned her into the large study even as the King made as though to stand and leave.

"Oh Aran-nin please, you needn't leave truly – it can wait I don't wish to disturb you."

"As Elrond has said tis no disturbance Hiril-nin – we were merely idling the time away with chatter and wine – I suspect you come to speak of things of far greater import."

Ìdhes bit her lip then nodded, "Indeed Aran-nin, I…I come to speak of Faervel's funeral so you needn't leave – I would not mind any input you might have."

Thranduil nodded but still stood though only to pull out the second of the plush armchairs before Elrond's desk and offer it to her. Her former master meanwhile had moved to pour her a drink of her own – miruvor rather than the Dorwinion red she could see in the King's glass. Ìdhes accepted it gratefully as she sank into the chair.

"Hannon le Hir Elrond, you are most kind." Ìdhes took a small sip of the restorative then took a deep breath. "I wish to hold Faervel's funeral in the next two days…I know it may seem a bit short notice but I have spoken to the stewards of the Hall and they've said all can be ready by then and…and Vel has, he's been uncommitted all this time and I…I…"

Elrond reached over his desk to place a calming hand on Ìdhes' own. "Sîdh Lady, you have no need to explain to me – all shall be done and held as requested in two days' time."

Thranduil nodded in agreement and Ìdhes felt some of the weight lift from her in finally knowing that her son would at last be properly committed into the care of Mandos.

She took another sip of her miruvor and gave both her Lords a shaky smile. She'd been blessed to serve under them both as different as their realms and styles of reign were. Her old master, Elrond, had taught her all she knew of the healing arts with unmeasured kindness, grace and patience. King Thranduil on the other hand had welcomed her into his Wood and given her a prestigious place as right hand to his Royal Healer Calelon. His rule was stricter but nevertheless fair and Ìdhes had truly experienced great favour with them both.

And as they both so kindly set about aiding her in the planning of Faervel's funeral she reflected she'd be really very sad when it came time to say goodbye to them both.

~o~

Elrohir studied the forlorn blonde Prince before him even as said Prince studied the neat rows of marble tombstones before him in turn.

The Lady Ìdhes had decided that Faervel's funeral would be held in accordance with Noldor customs – his hröa would be laid to rest in a grave marked with a marble tombstone of his own in permanent remembrance – something it seemed that was foreign to wood elves. For Legolas and his two friends – Aeglosson and Tauriel – had been upset and confused and had turned to him and Elladan for answers they did not want to press Lady Ìdhes for.

The friends had explained that wood elves committed their dead to fire and remembered them with a feast followed by a tree planted in their honour before they'd asked for a detailed run through of a Noldor funeral which had culminated in Elrohir offering to show them where they laid their dead to rest.

Aeglosson and Tauriel had both shied away from the offer and Elladan had decided to stay with them whilst Elrohir took Legolas – the only interested party – up to the Wailing Cliffs. The Cliffs comprised of a sheer limestone rock face that jutted up out of the otherwise lush green ground a good half hours walk away from the main house. The malleable limestone was perfect for the digging of the tombs which were then sealed with their marble gravestones each scripted with words of love and remembrance.

The two stood, still and silent as the evening wind whipped around them for a long time before Legolas turned to face Elrohir once more.

"It is peaceful here – Faervel will rest well in this place." Legolas bit his lip and turned once again to look at the tombstones. "And I suppose it is good that he will be remembered both in the land of his birth and his ancestral home."

Elrohir could see Legolas still struggled with the vast differences in culture and he walked up to the blonde and slung a comforting arm around him. "The marble used for these tombstones is enchanted – a remembrance forever for as long as Arda shall stand – whatever is written upon them shall never fade. They're a fitting tribute to a life well lived, and should you ever pass through this way again you will be more than welcome to come here and visit Faervel. Elladan and I shall certainly do so."

Elrohir considered for a moment before he continued softly, "Ladan and I already have a friend we visit up here often enough." Elrohir moved so that he trailed his fingers reverently across the smooth polished stone that read 'Nauron Vanafindonion'. "It does help – in a strange way – to have some small part of them still here with you on Arda."

Legolas turned to look at him once more then and this time the Prince seemed at ease. "Le athae Elrohir."

~o~

Thranduil straightened his black headscarf then placed the single plain silver circlet he had brought with him on top of it upon his head. He stared at himself in the mirror as he ran through his speeches in his head one final time. Despite Lady Ìdhes having decided on Noldor funeral and burial ceremonies Thranduil would be officiating rather than Elrond or one of the Noldor's priests due to Faervel's status as a Royal Bodyguard.

To think that he had to face this dread duty a second time…as if the first had not been soul crushing enough – Thranduil shuddered despite himself. It grieved him to see one as young as Faervel lost, doubly so as he'd been lost in duty to the House of Oropher and Thranduil would be lying if he proclaimed to feel no guilt. Yet somehow, inexplicably Lady Ìdhes still held him in high regard, bore him no blame for the death of her son and with that in mind Thranduil at last stood, smoothed his black robes once more and made for the door.

It was high time Faervel was laid to rest in peace and committed properly into the care of Mandos and Thranduil would see to it that the ceremony was everything that his son's best friend and former bodyguard deserved.

~o~

Legolas kept Elrohir's words in mind and both Thanniel and Lady Ìdhes' hands in his for the duration of the funeral. Still, it was difficult; aside from his Naneth's funeral he had never been to a funeral for one so dear and so close to him before and he could not hope to keep his tears in check as his Adar solemnly and respectfully lead the service.

Yes, he knew Vel was going to a better place where his friend would find peace and healing and even long lost family. And true too Legolas knew he'd see him again one day when at last he took ship, yet none of that eased the pain and ache he felt in his heart for his loss now. All of those great and glorious promises were for the future but for now Legolas had death and loss and pain and it hurt.

He hadn't been ready to say goodbye; he had so many things he still wanted to see and do and experience and he'd always envisioned Faervel at his side – part of their group of four firm friends – Aeglosson, Tauriel, Legolas and Faervel. It had always been them, should have always been them, but now…now it was time to say that goodbye, to say prayers and sing sad songs, to listen to eulogies and to watch his friend's shrouded hröa and friendly yet forever frozen face disappear into the cavernous mouth of the tomb that had been set aside for him. To stand respectfully as the elegantly carved and inscribed marble headstone sealed Faervel away from sight.

Legolas did each and every one of those things with Elrohir's words in mind, both Thanniel and Lady Ìdhes' hands in his, tears in his eyes and profound grief in his heart.

~o~

Ìdhes watched as her son was sealed away – hröa committed to stones' cold embrace, fëa dedicated to Námo – and felt strangely and horribly relieved as the last of the prayers were uttered. The worst was over – even the final goodbyes she had yet to face would be easier than this. Her son was at last laid to peace and to rest and she was now free to sail and await him in the Blessed Realm in the arms and comfort of her family.

Ìdhes wiped her eyes, placed a kiss upon the icy marble and slowly walked away.

~o~

At the sound of elven light thread upon grass Legolas turned from his seated cross-legged position to see none other than Lady Ìdhes enter the clearing behind him. He was seated before the Wailing Cliffs and had been 'talking' to Faervel. In all honesty Legolas had been surprised at how right Elrohir had been, how much it did actually help to have a focal point for his grief and some small sense of Faervel not being entirely gone from his life; thus in the five days since his friend's burial the Prince had taken to spending the idle half hour he had before lunch sitting 'with' his friend.

Now though he turned his full attention to Lady Ìdhes as she too gracefully sank to the grass beside him.

"Suilad Ernil-nin, are you well?"

"Aye Lady," Legolas gave a weak smile, "I am well."

Lady Ìdhes returned the small smile. "I can see you have gotten stronger day by day and it eases my heart and mind to know you will suffer no lasting ill. And so comforted I have come to say my good-byes for I leave for the Havens tomorrow."

"T-tomorrow?"

Legolas reeled. He knew of course that this had been Lady Ìdhes' plan – to sail once Faervel had been laid to rest – but it was still somewhat of a shock to be confronted with the reality of the kind elleth's departure from Arda and his life.

"Aye Ernil-nin, I am afraid my tolerance for Arda wanes every day even as my grief increases and so the sooner I sail the better. Tauriel and Agelosson's troop shall escort me and Thanniel will also accompany me." Lady Ìdhes gave a small laugh, "I hope you do not mind me stealing off with all your company penneth."

Legolas blinked slowly as he processed the words before he shook his head fervently. "Perish the thought Lady – I am only glad you will have comforting company and the proper protection to see you through to the end of your journey. Worry not about me – I will be well."

"I do hope so Ernil-nin, I really do. I want you to be happy, to recover fully, and to leave this place - beautiful though it is - and go back to the Wood. I want you to return to your life as normal and carry on. Not that you will forget Vel, but that you will help him fulfil his pledge by returning safely home and enjoying your life. That's what Faervel would have wanted for you."

Legolas nodded solemnly, "I will do so Lady; although now with the grief still so near it is difficult to imagine being carefree and totally happy again, but I know it will come - time is the great healer isn't it?" Legolas scoffed, "Or so they say. Either way I shall do my best and I will never forget Faervel - rest assured Hiril-nin - I will plant him a tree of remembrance in accordance with our traditions upon my return home to the Wood. He will be remembered both by your people and his own."

"Then I can count my son blessed indeed to know that there will be so many who will cherish his memory. But I mean it Ernil-nin, the best thing you can do to honour Vel's memory is to give your grief time but then go on living. Do not be so sceptical of the balm to the soul that time can be. The pain will fade eventually and you will be able to look back on your memories with joy. Trust me on that."

Legolas gave a tiny lopsided smile, "I will have to take your word for it then Lady and trust to your wisdom in this."

Lady Ìdhes smiled then seemingly satisfied before she got a serious look upon her face.

"I would also like to remind you to forgive your Adar."

Some of the conflict Legolas still felt regarding his Adar must have shone upon his face for Lady Ìdhes leaned over to grasp his hands in hers and hold them tightly.

"Remember our chat penneth; you cannot truly forgive Faervel and I if you do not forgive your Adar. We were all party to this wrong done against you and if you forgive one then you should forgive all. And if you uphold the sin of one then you must uphold the sin of us all."

Legolas blew out a heavy breath and ran his hands through his hair. "I promise, I promise you I will forgive him. I can never stay mad at Adar over-long anyway and I know deep down he never meant to hurt me. I will forgive him - worry not."

Lady Ìdhes looked relieved at his words but it seemed that she was still not finished as she squeezed his hand again gently and looked him in the eye.

"I am sorry penneth that my goodbye seems more like a series of charges but I must press you for one more promise."

Legolas nodded, "Of course Lady. What is it?"

"This one is the most important of all - you must forgive yourself."

"Forgive myself? I'm sorry Lady I don-"

Lady Ìdhes held up a hand and cut Legolas short. "I know you took blame upon yourself for what happened with Vel, I know you felt a lot of guilt over him and I know we've talked about it but I must make sure. Before I go I must be certain that you understand it was not your fault and you have no reason to feel any guilt nor take up any blame. Promise me Ernil-nin that if there is any guilt that still lingers within you that you will let it go and forgive yourself. It is imperative that you do so if you ever hope to truly make a full recovery, grieve properly and live your life with joy once again. Promise me."

"That is a promise that I can assure you is already fulfilled Hiril-nin - you set my heart greatly at ease when we talked and though it was hard at the time I am grateful that you came to see me that day and spoke with me so openly. I will remember you and your kindness for the remainder of my days upon Arda Lady Ìdhes - truly I have never known one as kind as you. Faervel was blessed to have you as a mother and I am simply grateful that you allowed me to be a part of your lives and that you shared that kindness with me. I will miss you dearly Hiril-nin."

"And I you penneth. I will truly miss your smile, your kindness, your laughter and of course all the antics you and Vel got up to. Valar knows you two nearly gave me a full head of greys on more than one occasion." Lady Ìdhes gave breathy laugh, "The things you two got up to…there was certainly never a dull moment – especially not once you also added Aeglosson and Tauriel into the mix."

Legolas gave a wistful smile as he recalled some of their wilder antics - the memories tinged with both joyful remembrance and the still pervasive sorrow. "We certainly did have the best of times."

Lady Ìdhes pulled Legolas into a one armed hug then and the Prince went willingly and leaned deep into the comforting embrace as the two lapsed into talk of their memories – both laughter and tears upon their faces as they whiled away the remainder of the afternoon.

~o~

Ìdhes turned for one final gaze upon the homeland she was saying goodbye to for the last time. Her position high astride her mare gave her the perfect vantage point to look back at the Imladris courtyard where those who had come to see her off still stood. Her childhood friends, her former master Elrond, King Thranduil and of course Prince Legolas.

She'd felt touched at the turn-out and had taken great pains to say a proper farewell to each one of them including a tear-filled one to the Prince who she let her gaze linger upon. The young blonde stood tall and strong next to his Adar and Ìdhes felt a peace take hold of her then as she knew that Legolas would be well once again and that Faervel's oaths and pledges of protection would be fulfilled.

Content, the Noldor elleth raised a hand in one final, elegant wave goodbye then turned firmly forward to face the new path fate had set before her.

TBC.

Ernil-nin / Ernil – My Prince / Prince

Doron- Oak Tree

Hir – Lord

Gwannast vê – He died well

Naneth – Mother

Penneth – Young One

Annin - Literally: For me – Sindarin version of Please

Goheno nin – Forgive me

Elleth - Female elf

Hiril-nin - My Lady

Riel – Princess

Adar – Father

Maethyr – (plural) Warriors

Gwanunig – Twin

Hannon-le – Thank you

Hröa – Body (Quenya)

Le fael – Literally: You are generous – Sindarin version of Thank you

Suilad – Greetings

Fëa – (Quenya) Soul

Im maer – I'm fine/well

Hirrim-nin – My Lords

Aran-nin - My King

Miruvor – Restorative cordial used by the Valar and the Elves

Sîdh – Peace

Le athae – Literally: You are/were helpful/kind - Sindarin version of Thank you