A/N: Warnings for discussion and (non-graphic) depiction of capital punishment and death.
Elrond feinted to the left before he brought his sword round in a quick flash of movement to the right and tapped Thranduil on the hip with it – for the fourth time that morning. Sparring rounds with Thranduil – since the blonde King had deigned to let Elrond join in with him and his bodyguards – were usually a much tougher work-out than this had proved to be thus far. Usually it took everything Elrond had in him to manage to land a strike upon the wily, foot-work smart Elven King… to do so four times in one session was simply unheard of and with that Elrond drew back to study the blonde before him.
"You are distracted today mellon,"Elrond observed.
Thranduil shot him a sour look and took up the ready position again, "Best out of ten."
Elrond shook his head with a teasing smile upon his face, "I think not Thranduil – in that last bout you were constantly a hair's breadth from gaining an injury. I do not think it would be wise to tempt your luck any further for today."
Thranduil huffed in an aggrieved and put-upon manner before he sheathed his twin swords in a swift motion that spoke of frustration.
Elrond only smiled at him, "Come now mellon-nin, I am only trying to look out for your benefit as well as my own. I do not think your guards would take too kindly to you coming back from sparring with me with so much as a scratch upon your person."
Thranduil gave a wry smile in response to that and Elrond pressed once more. "Will you not tell me what it is that distracts you so this morn?"
Thranduil crossed his arms, a pensive look upon his face. "I received a missive late last night from Lady Ìdhes' escort. She made it safely to the Havens and set sail with no issue. Her escort are on their way back and now that that matter is settled I feel as though it is time for me to head back to the Wood. I have been away for far too long now and there are loose ends regarding Legolas and his capture that I need to resolve - ideally before he returns."
"I see," Elrond hummed thoughtfully. "You plan on leaving soon then?"
"Truthfully I need to," Thranduil had begun to pace. "But I am worried about Legolas and how he will take my departure. He has been doing well, so well - but similarly these past weeks have seen a lot of stress and upheaval for him. Faervel buried, Lady Ìdhes sailed and his friends disappeared for a time. He has taken it all in his stride so far but my departure will be hard on him. He has found comfort in my presence here and I am loathe to remove such a comfort from him. I do not want to cause a relapse."
Elrond nodded as he understood at last what had caused the pensive distractedness in his friend all the morning long. He understood Thranduil's concerns - they were after all very real and valid. The young Prince had had rather a lot of stressors in his life recently and though he had taken them well so far his Adar leaving could yet be the one that would prove too much for him.
"I understand your concern and it is a real one. My advice to you would be simply to wait. Wait until Legolas' friends and Thanniel, for he seems very close with her, return." Elrond gave a shrug, "you have already been away a good few months now so a few more weeks won't hurt anything or anyone and will ensure that Legolas is not made to feel abandoned and alone should you leave ere his friends return. The Prince having a few familiar faces around and the stability that that brings will be good for him in this last stretch of the healing process."
Thranduil tilted his head as he considered Elrond's words. "Your advice is sound Elrond; as I say the last thing I want is for Legolas to suffer any setback. As lovely as it is here I do want my son to return back home - and you are right a couple more weeks will make no difference when I have already been absent from my Wood for so long. I will stay until Thanniel, Aeglosson and Tauriel return to keep Legolas company in my absence and enjoy what remains of this extended break in the meantime."
The blonde King ceased his pacing and turned to face Elrond head on. He pulled his twin swords from their sheaths and once again took up the ready position. "Well Elrond - are you going to take up my challenge for best out of ten bouts? Or are you scared that I shall beat you despite your large advantage?"
Elrond shook his head at the mocking words and took up his own ready stance. It was clear that their talk had helped and that Thranduil, his focus restored, was ready to return things to the status quo as far as their sparring was concerned. Resigned Elrond lunged forward determined to land the first blow and take what advantage he could get even as he already knew that Thranduil was once again about to show him why he was considered a formidable warrior King.
~o~
Thranduil eyed his son from where he was sprawled comfortably in the soft grass. Legolas had his face tilted up toward the sun as he leaned against a tree basking in the warmth and tranquil peace of the calm summer afternoon. Thranduil smiled at the sight, pleased to see son so relaxed and carefree. Legolas had certainly come a long way from when Thranduil had first arrived in the Valley; more at ease and at peace with himself concerning all that had happened to him - the shadow that had hung about his son essentially disappeared. Physically too Legolas was most definitely stronger; his son had continued to work hard alongside Elrond's twins even after finally being released from the healing halls and the results of such hard work were making themselves known.
Legolas no longer tired as easily and had begun to take part in light sparring sessions once again with either the twins, one of his Elite or Thranduil himself. His son had lost much in the way of fitness and had a long road ahead of him in terms of regaining the level of fitness required by the warriors of the Woodland army but the Elven King was confident that would return to Legolas in time.
And so, instead of letting his son spend all his time running drills and practice sessions worrying about his fitness and return as a Captain of the army Thranduil had taken to snatching him away in the afternoons to while away a few hours in whatever frivolous manner he saw fit for that day.
Today they had left even earlier than usual - before lunch - walking far away from the main house, deep into the cool evergreen forests that made up the border of the Valley. For some days ago Elrond had mentioned a fast flowing river on the Imladris border where crabs might be found and the Elven King had craved the succulent meat ever since. Crabs were a summertime treat in the Woodland realm and with a mild homesickness that he would never admit to Thranduil had grabbed a few chilled bottles of white wine, two loaves of crusty bread and snatched Legolas away from the sparring grounds determined to have crabs for lunch.
The two had had much fun splashing around in the cold river - a balm after their hot and sweaty walk - before they'd settled to the serious business of catching crabs. Without traps (for the wood elves did not believe in overfishing) it was typically fiddly work and they were soaked through with a good many nips and small cuts to their fingers by the time they had managed to catch enough crabs for their lunch.
Still, it had been worth it and they had eaten well; filling themselves up with a simple lunch of lightly roasted crabmeat mixed through with wild garlic and parsley on the delightfully crusty bread and washed down with the smooth cool white wine.
A most agreeable way, Thranduil mused, to have lunch and spend a sleepy summer afternoon.
The blonde King let himself settle ever more comfortably into the plush grass beneath him - such free time to lounge and idle would once more be a rarity to him when he returned to his Wood and Thranduil was determined to make the most of these last relaxing moments with Legolas ere he returned to his real-life and all the responsibilities it entailed.
Boneless and completely relaxed, Thranduil watched as Legolas too gave in to the tranquillity and warmth of their surroundings as his eyes glazed over in elven sleep.
It was only a few short moments later before the elder blonde joined his son in slumber.
~o~
Legolas smiled as he bounded down the stairs and made for the lodge Aeglosson and Tauriel's troop were staying in. They had arrived the previous night along with Thanniel - all of them back safe and accounted for from their trip to the Havens and the Prince was fit to burst with excitement over seeing them again.
Hir Elrond was putting on a rather large sort of 'welcome back' luncheon and Legolas was to escort his friends and their troop to the outdoor pavilion that had been set aside for it. His Adar and his Elite along with Thanniel had already made their way over to the pavilion and so Legolas put on an extra burst of speed (feeling endlessly pleased that he could once again do so), happiness at the thought of once more being surrounded by so many of his favourite people driving him onwards.
Though he'd thoroughly enjoyed his afternoon ramblings across Imladris with his Adar he had worried for and missed his friends and Thanniel during their time away and having them back eased something in him, lifted the small cloud that had hung over him ever since Lady Ìdhes' departure. Legolas felt lighter; happier in a way he'd be hard pressed to describe but it was a feeling he revelled in as he let himself into the lodge and found himself nearly deafened and crushed by the warm wave of embraces and greetings that was his welcome from his friends and their troop-mates.
~o~
"Walk with me Las-nin."
Thranduil offered Legolas a hand up from where he sat against a tree both watching the varying sparring matches taking place and taking a break from his own training match with the twins who had turned their attentions to Aeglosson and Tauriel whilst he rested.
Legolas took his Adar's strong, smooth hand and let it pull him to his feet. "Of course Adar."
He smiled as he wondered whether Thranduil was going to drag him off for another one of their lazy afternoons where they meandered off to some obscure corner of Elrond's Valley to while away the hours with chatter, laughter and drink.
His Adar didn't look relaxed however – though of course that could have been down to the fact that he'd just ended a vigorous bout of sword fighting with Hir Glorfindel. Still, Legolas felt there was more to his Adar's mood than that judging by the tiny wrinkle that gently creased his brow.
Thranduil said nothing as they walked for a good while upwards toward one of the many hills that overlooked the Valley. There was a small copse of trees at its peak and it was here that his Adar steered them before they settled up against them in their shade.
Legolas smiled out at the vista before him; Imladris was truly a beautiful place even with its lack of any meaningful forested areas. It was a place made for beautiful summer days like this where one could simply bask and enjoy Eru's creation. Legolas tore his eyes away from the relaxing scene before him to see that his Adar looked anything but relaxed. The little wrinkle his forehead had deepened and he was actively frowning now - just a little - but his mouth was definitely downturned.
"What troubles you Adar?" Legolas cocked his head to one side as he gave Thranduil his full attention.
His Adar heaved a deep breath and blew it out slowly his eyes all the while on the pleasant view.
It was unlike his Adar to hesitate and Legolas felt a small ball of foreboding sink into the pit of his stomach.
"You begin to worry me Adar," the Prince prompted again.
"And I do not mean to, I am sorry ion-nin that is not my intent." Thranduil at last looked Legolas in the eye, "The time has come for me to leave Imladris Las-nin. I have already stayed far longer than anyone anticipated and now that you are recovered and have only your fitness to regain it is time for me to go."
Legolas felt the ball of foreboding in his stomach twist into an unpleasant mix of emotions. Of course he knew his Adar could not stay here indefinitely - he was King and had a great many responsibilities and people relying on him. It was to be expected and yet a small part of the Prince had somewhat childishly hoped that his Adar would wait for him to be well and fit enough to make the arduous trip across the Mountains and back to their Wood beyond.
The thought must've shown on his face for Thranduil frowned all the harder as he turned to fully face Legolas.
"I know you would have hoped that we could have travelled back together - indeed I even asked Elrond whether it might be a possibility. Alas he is of the opinion that the journey would be too much for you just yet and I am inclined to agree with him particularly when I remember the perils we faced, my Elite and I, on our way here. Goblins, wargs and trolls." Thranduil gave a helpless shrug, "True, we may have simply been exceptionally unlucky but I cannot risk your health on luck. You have already been through too much and come too far to have any setbacks now. When you travel home it will be because you are ready and not a moment before. When I leave you must listen to Elrond in this ion-nin. You are not to defy him in any way on the matter."
"You are correct Adar - I did wish us to travel home together," Legolas could not stop the wistful tone to his voice. "Still I understand your position and I know you have been here for months now - surely much longer than you ever expected. It will be as you say, you shall leave and I will wait until Hir Elrond gives me the all clear and grants his permission. I only hope it shan't be too much longer."
That was another worry of Legolas' - it was already mid-summer - if he did not leave Imladris by the early autumn, mid-autumn by the very latest, then he would have to overwinter in the Hidden Valley. The Prince was under no illusions over whether or not his Adar would allow him to travel in the more perilous early winter conditions.
Thranduil was quick to placate him as he gently stroked a loose hair back from Legolas' face. "I am confident it shouldn't be too much longer ion-nin. Remember you are only chasing your fitness now, rebuilding your strength and you work diligently at it each day. Elrond will grant you permission ere you know it - but you must promise me not to push yourself too hard and risk relapse. Simply keep doing what you are doing and it will come. We will all be reunited back in the Wood ere too long. Do not fret."
Secretly Legolas was indeed fretting though he knew it would do no good - his Adar had to go back to the Wood and resume his duties and that was that. All Legolas could do was put on a brave face, wish his Adar safe travels and refocus himself to work all the harder in regaining his fitness so that he too might return to their home.
With that in mind the Prince gave his Adar the biggest smile he could manage just then, "I hope you and your Elite have safer travels back home than you did on your way here. When do you leave?"
"In two days' time," Thranduil intoned solemnly.
Legolas could not suppress his shock nor his dismay as he exclaimed, "Two days? Is that not rather sudden? That hardly seems as though you will have any time to prepare."
His Adar threw him a saddened, concerned look and all too late Legolas remembered he was supposed to be putting a brave face on things.
"We are well prepared ion-nin, I have known I had to leave for some time now - I was only waiting on Aeglosson, Tauriel and Thanniel's return before I broke the news to you and made ready in earnest for my departure. Elrond and I felt it best that I waited until your friends returned before I told you - you have been through much recently ion-nin and I did not wish to add to your burdens. I also did not want my departure date hanging over us during the time we did have left - and you have enjoyed yourself, have you not?"
Legolas took a bracing breath and again offered a smile. "Yes, I have enjoyed myself immensely with you here Adar and truly I do not think you will ever know how grateful I am that you came. To have you here by my side through all of this has been a deep comfort to me and I am so glad for the time you have spent with me and all the support you have given me."
"I will always be here for you ion-nin - you have my support and whatever help I am able to render for eternity - never forget it. And I am sorry that you are upset about my departure and its seeming suddenness..."
"I am not upset," Legolas interjected, "I know you are a King and I know that Kings have responsibilities - your departure was to be expected sooner rather than later. Do not worry for me Adar, I will be fine and I will join you back in the Wood as soon as I possibly can."
Legolas put on the most placid face he could muster but alas for him (and Rithel had always said he was bad at masking his true feelings) Thranduil was less than convinced.
"It is okay to be upset ion-nin - it grieves me too to leave you here - to return to our home without you and yet I must. For I still have as prisoners some of the men who did this great crime against you and they must be suitably punished. I will deal with that and all will be in order by the time you arrive. You need never look upon their faces again - something I hope will bring you some relief. And more than that, do you not want to see your sister and your troop mates again? The sooner I go the sooner they shall be on their way."
Legolas gave a small but true smile at the thought of seeing his sister and his troop again. It had been a long time since he'd seen any of them and he was keen to lay eyes upon them and make sure they were all as well as he'd been told.
Despite that however the Prince was still loathe to lose his Adar's company - he had very much come to enjoy their lazy, tipsy afternoons where they talked about everything from politics to palace gossip and occasionally (if Thranduil had had one too many) his Naneth. Legolas was close to his Adar; though he knew their relationship could often look formal and somewhat cold to outsiders that was only when they played their respective roles as King and Prince. When they were alone however nothing could be further from the truth - they had a very close bond and it was that closeness that had helped Legolas through this entire ordeal. He was truly upset about his Adar's departure but resolved not to make things any more difficult for Thranduil than they needed to be.
"Well then, I shall look forward to their arrival even as I wish you all the best on your travels. Hortho le huil vaer Adar."
Thranduil pressed a kiss to the crown of his head, "Thank you for your kind wishes ion-nin. Guren nallatha nalú achenin le."
Legolas gave something that could not be truly called a smile - more a wistful twist of his lips - at the words. His heart too would grieve until they were reunited again.
~o~
Legolas stared wistfully in the direction in which his Adar and his Elite had disappeared from Imladris' borders heedless of the tears that streamed down his face. He had quickly made himself scarce from the courtyard once his Adar and his escort had begun to leave. He'd silently slipped into one of the main house's gardens and had found himself a suitable tree in which to perch and watch Thranduil's departure. And it was here the Prince sat now shrouded in a feeling of sad loneliness.
Legolas remained in the tree (sleepy, and slow to respond - nothing like the ones at home) for hours lost in his own thoughts and it was only the shift in the light as the brightness of the midday sun flooded the Valley that shook him from his stupor.
With a final deep sigh Legolas scrubbed at the tell-tale tear marks on his face, slipped down from the tree and made his way back to the house proper.
~o~
"Are you well Las?" Thanniel was brushing out his braids for the night as had become ritual for them here.
Legolas hesitated though he knew ultimately there was little use in hiding anything from his former nanny. In fact he was surprised that Thanniel had not commented on his mood sooner. For he knew he had been withdrawn and listless for the past three days since his Adar had left. He had still done all that was expected of him, had still worked hard at his fitness but in a way where he was simply going through the motions - his thoughts often far away and filled with concern over his Adar's journey.
Legolas rubbed a hand over his face, "I miss him."
"I know you do penneth, I know you do you. But don't let such a feeling consume you - try to enjoy your time here and the friendship you have formed with Elrond's twins. For before you know it, it shall be us who are giving our goodbyes and setting off on our own journeys back home. You need not rush time away, it passes regardless - so try to be more present and enjoy the now. Your reunion with your Adar will come sooner than you think. And when that time comes just think of the grand feast that he will throw to celebrate. You have much to look forward to - but there is also much to enjoy right here, right now."
Legolas smiled - Thanniel always knew just what to say and how to make him feel better.
"Hannon-le Thanny - you are a true gift." The Prince turned and wrapped his arms around his former nanny in a tight hug.
Thanniel was right; he needed to make the most of his time here - continue to work hard but have fun even while doing so. Enjoy the company of Elladan and Elrohir, explore this new place with Aeglosson and Tauriel and take the time to simply 'be' with Thanniel - with no patrols, nor any unexpected urgent missions to interrupt their time together. He would likely never experience such a total break from his duties and responsibilities ever again - he might as well make the most of it. And he would start here and now.
"Let's send for some wine Thanny and then head out to one of the waterfalls to watch the stars. Elladan says the summer nights here are pretty spectacular."
Thanniel set down his hairbrush and grinned in approval. "Yes - let's!"
~o~
Thranduil slipped off Diomedes and handed the temperamental horse over to the stable hands without so much as a backward glance. Diomedes had been his usual irritating self for the entirety of the trip which itself had been trying. Trying and very, very wet. Where they had left beautiful and bountiful sunshine in Imladris the Misty Mountains had been nothing but rain, hail, sleet and mysterious fogs and mists. It had been dreary, miserable work ascending and descending the Mountains made all the worse by not one but three packs of yrch that they had had to fight off. To top things off two of their horses had been lamed in the last fight in the foothills of the Mountains and so after that the journey had been painfully slow as they accommodated the injured steeds.
The entire thing had served to remind the Elven King as to why he did not travel and it was fair to say that as he made his way through the palace gates – wet, dirty hair plastered to his face, muddy boots and clothes squelching with every step - that he was in a rare temper.
Addressing the first palace page that he saw Thranduil snapped out a quick message he wanted delivered to his council.
"Make it known to the council that I want the court reconvened and final punishments meted out to the edain who have rested comfortably and idle in my dungeons for far too long. It is time for justice to be served. We will reconvene in three days' time."
The page who'd initially looked shocked - whether from being so abruptly accosted or by Thranduil's bedraggled appearance - regained himself and dropped into a low respectful bow. "It shall be done Aran-nin."
The Elven King simply gave a grim nod and the page shot off to do his bidding.
Thranduil continued to stalk his way down the corridors, intent on getting to his chambers and getting clean once again, however news of his arrival had clearly spread quickly through the palace as he was approached hurriedly by Galion, the palace housekeeper and several out of breath attendants.
"Aran-nin, mae athollen - it is good to see you in these halls again." The palace housekeeper and his attendant staff dipped into low bows.
"Mae govannen Aran-nin," Galion too bowed low. "We are pleased to have you back. Your rooms await you if you would allow me to escort you."
"Yes, whilst we shall attend to your Elite and see to it that a proper meal is ready for you all at your convenience." The palace housekeeper was jolly and eager as ever to help.
Thranduil withheld a sigh; in all honesty he did not want to be escorted anywhere - especially not by Galion - his probing butler who always discerned far too much. He wanted to be left alone, to soak in hot water, give himself a good scrubbing and try to feel like an elf again. Then he wanted to drink some good wine and try to drown out the nagging ache of missing Legolas and the ever present worry for his son now that they were parted again. Yet to turn away his servants now - all of whom had apparently missed him and looked ecstatic to see him again - would be churlish and ungrateful.
It was time to be King again and do and behave as was expected of him.
Thranduil inclined his head, "Le suilannon and I thank you all for your warm welcome. Let it be as you have said - my Elite will be most grateful for your assistance and a warm meal - though I shall ask that my meal be sent to my rooms."
"Of course Aran-nin. Your wish is our command." The housekeeper and his attendants bowed once more before they set off in the direction from which Thranduil had come in search of his Elite.
Thranduil turned then toward Galion who remained doggedly at his side. "Lead on then Galion - I have a pressing need to get clean."
His butler ran a cheeky and assessing eye over him from head to toe and gave a slight smirk, "Indeed you do Sire, indeed you do."
~o~
Thranduil had scarcely finished wrapping himself into his night robe, his hair pulled into a still damp and messy knot at the back of his head, when there was a rigorous knocking at his bedchamber door. Tired but unwilling to have a conversation in his bedroom the Elven King strode across the room and opened the door to see both his daughter and his Regent standing on the other side.
"Adar!" Rithel threw herself into his arms and Thranduil could not help but smile as he gave her a squeeze. He had missed his daughter whilst away, had worried over her and it was good to see that she looked well and it felt even better to have her in his arms again.
"Mae athollen Adar - I have missed you."
"And I you iell-nin," he pressed a kiss to her silver hair. "How have things been? How have you been?"
"I am well Adar but there are more exciting things to speak of just now. Things such as Lasseg. How is he doing Adar? Is he well? Is he on the mend? Or already healed? I note he has not returned with you."
Rithel sounded sad at this last and Thranduil threw his arm around her and pulled her close in a one armed hug.
"Do not worry for your brother - the timing of my return was too soon for him but he is well."
Rithel sagged into his side in relief. "That is good news Adar - we have all been ever so worried."
"Indeed we have been worried - truly Tharan-min, you might have sent a letter." It was Arahaelon who now embraced him tenderly despite the teasing exasperation in his words. "Glass nín le."
Thranduil smiled, "And I am glad to see you again too. I trust you are well? And that the realm is also?"
"Yes, of course all is well with the realm, you left us in charge - so what else is to be expected? Now waste no more time on talk of politics - we shall get round to all of that. What we want to hear about is Legolas." Arahaelon gestured the King and Princess toward the plush armchairs in Thranduil's sitting room. "I have had the foresight to bring along a plentiful amount of good wine, so Thranduil make yourself comfortable and tell us everything."
The Elven King smiled as he watched his Regent fill his glass with a potent vintage Dorwinion and feeling relaxed for the first time in more than two weeks Thranduil begun his tale.
~o~
Blacwin started at a commotion of elven chatter that came from the main doors that lead down into the dungeons and peered upwards through the bars of his cell to try and see what the excitement was about. For they did not get much excitement down in the ornately wrought cells of the Elven King's dungeons.
Things down at dungeon level were quiet, mundane and had become entirely predictable to the man. They awoke, were allowed to refresh and clean themselves under supervision and were then fed breakfast; they were then let out to a small exercise hall and put through their paces before they were returned to their cells for their midday meal. The long afternoons spent either napping or woodworking (depending on how cooperative they had been with their jailors) were then followed by the evening meal, quick ablutions and then bed. It had been the same day in, day out for the past few months - and in truth Blacwin was surprised that the elves had even allowed them so many small mercies, was surprised that they still lived all this time later. But live they did and it had been a quiet, predictable life that he and his fellow men had settled into. Dull at times - most certainly, but Blacwin had grown accustomed to it and its simplicity.
The rapid-fire exchange of elven babble that he could now hear taking place awoke both curiosity and dread in him and as a well-dressed elven page made his dainty approach from their jailors and down the steps toward their cells the curiosity was rapidly and overwhelmingly replaced with pure dread. An elven messenger could not mean anything good for them.
Blacwin was not wrong.
"I bring word from the King and from his Council - you Men are to receive your sentences in three days' time. The corresponding punishments will be carried out directly after your sentences have been passed..."
The messenger elf continued on speaking in his heavy, lilting accent for a few more moments as he outlined what would happen on the day but Blacwin was barely listening at that point as one phrase echoed round and round in his mind. Three days. Three days. That was all the time he had left to him - three days and he would find out at long last what manner of punishment the elves had in store for him. Three days. Just three days.
It all seemed rather abrupt though Blacwin knew that truly he had no one to blame his predicament or his shock at the announcement on but himself. It was his own misdeeds that had landed him here and it was his own folly that had allowed him to slip into a false sense of security all but forgetting the trial that loomed over them and the punishment that was due to him.
Despite the fact that he was kept behind a cell door and closely watched at all hours of the day - the genteel quiet and strange serenity of the dungeons coupled with the many kindnesses the elves had shown them had eroded the sense of alarm, despair and worry he had initially arrived at the cells with. Blacwin had at first wondered how he was to survive the long wait for his sentence and punishment, he had felt sure he would go crazy with the stress of it. But that had not been the case and instead he had found himself falling ever deeper into his quiet, mundane, even peaceful routine and now that was all to come to an end; his routine brusquely snatched from him and exposed for the falsity it had been all along.
And Blacwin felt despair return to him with full force. He would have to face the Elven King again and this time it was to receive punishment. Blacwin shivered as he remembered his last encounter with the blonde King; it had not gone well - the King had been livid with their sins against his son as well as the rest of his people and the man knew that they would all be punished accordingly. And surely, certainly that had to mean death. How could it be aught else?
They had been here for months and in that time Blacwin had done some soul-searching; he knew the crimes he and his fellows had committed against the King and his people were grave, heinous and unforgivable. He knew they could expect no mercy. He knew they deserved none.
But it was one thing to know and it was another thing to accept. Blacwin knew but he had yet to accept. To accept that at last all his misdeeds and previous crimes were to finally be punished. To accept that his time was up.
The man let himself fall back heavily onto his cot. He had three days to move from knowing to acceptance.
Three days.
~o~
Thranduil pushed his rings onto his fingers one by one as he slowly finished the last of his getting ready for the day ahead. He had quite the day ahead of him - it was the day that he would sentence and punish the men who were the cause of so much anguish and suffering of not just his son but a great many others. It was a day he had been both looking forward to and dreading all at once. Thranduil was glad that after today he would finally be able to close this dark chapter in his life and offer some form of closure to his people and his son. At the same time what had to be done, the sentences he had to pass and the punishments that would follow would not be pleasant and as such he did not look forward to them.
Thranduil moved from his rings to his hair as he began to drag his brush slowly through his ash blonde locks. The day ahead would be long - likely as long as the day before had been - when his court had reconvened to discuss how they would put the men sentenced with capital punishment to death. It had been an entirely unpleasant discussion - putting other sentient beings to death was not a typical elven thing to do. Sure, his warriors spent a good portion of their patrols beating back and dealing death to the servants of the Evil One - but those were orcs, wargs and spiders - evil things with no true purpose or meaning in life. That was an entirely different matter from the one in hand where they would be putting living and breathing humans to death.
There was a part of Thranduil, somewhere deep inside, where such a thing did not sit well with him but he also knew his people would accept nothing less…not after all that had been suffered by Legolas as well as his troop, Faervel, Lady Ìdhes and the Woodsmen under his protection. And then when he himself thought back on all the nights he'd spent back in Imladris listening to Legolas tearfully tell his tale and of the deep sorrow that had marred Lady Ìdhes' face…well then death seemed utterly fitting.
So death it would be and death they'd discussed in tedious detail that gave Thranduil a headache just to think back upon it. They had come to a conclusion in the end - they would slit the men's necks quick and elven style - merciful. It was the punishment all but one of the men would be sentenced to; the man who would escape death - Blacwin - for his show of remorse and general good behaviour during his time in the dungeons would be shipped off to a Dale prison and Thranduil had spent the remainder of the previous day with messengers from the King of Dale to discuss the terms of the handover as well as ensuring that Blacwin would indeed be kept in the grimmest prison Dale had to offer for the rest of his life. In light of what the others would be sentenced to Thranduil felt a life imprisonment was more than fair and a great act of mercy toward one of the ring leaders of the evil that had set upon his Wood. And truthfully the blonde King was grateful he'd not have to bear the burden of more Mannish blood upon his hands.
Thranduil set his brush down with a sigh; yesterday had been a long day full of tiresome politics and today would be an even longer one filled with human blood.
There was a quick sharp rap at his bedroom door before it was opened to reveal none other than Aglardaer. His Crown Commander and best friend was sharply outfitted in the formal dress uniform of the Woodland Army and bore a solemn expression upon his face.
"Suilad Thranduil, are you ready? The proceedings shall start in the next fifteen minutes but I figured you would want to get down to the throne room in good time."
Thranduil nodded and placed his heavy, jewel laden summer crown upon his head, "Aye, you figured correctly mellon." Yet the Elven King made no move at all to get up from where he was seated before his dresser.
Aglardaer stared at him for a long moment before he prompted again, "Handsome though you are mellon-nin I'm afraid we must leave now or we shall have precious little time to get down to the throne room should you continue to admire yourself thusly."
The blonde gave his friend a glare in the mirror before he turned to face him fully, "Truthfully Aglardaer I am in no great hurry for today's proceedings."
"Oh no? I would have thought you were looking forward to today - to at last be able to put all this behind you."
Thranduil sighed even as he finally stood up, "I am indeed looking forward to getting this out of the way and put behind me but before I can consider the matter closed we must go through today and all the unpleasantness it shall no doubt entail."
"Unpleasantness you say? If you truly felt thusly about it all why did you not gainsay Rithel and overrule her on the capital punishments? It is your right as King and none would have questioned you."
"I am not opposed to the deaths of those men - at least not entirely..." Thranduil gave a frustrated wave of his hand, "I feel conflicted in a way I did not think would be possible in such a situation. I felt such rage when I saw Legolas and all that had been done to him that had those men been there before me in that moment I would have put them to death myself. And indeed even now when I think about it all - about everything that everyone had to suffer because of them - I feel that even this punishment is too good, too clean, too easy for them. There is a part of me that would like to see them suffer and truly hurt in the way they caused such suffering and hurt. Yet on the other hand a part of me feels that dealing death, even to such scum as these men, makes me just as bad as them... as though I will somehow be guilty and have their blood upon my hands."
"For you to be so conflicted is normal mellon-nin; after all we are elves and called to a higher moral path than most who walk this earth. It is well to feel some qualms over the sentence to be passed - if you felt nothing at all that would indicate you had let rage and vengeance consume you - which can only lead to ill and evil. That would have been cause to worry. But as I say what you feel is normal - all apart from the guilt that is - that you must let go of. These men brought their punishments upon themselves with their own evil deeds. Think you that they did not know what they did was evil? Of course they knew but they persisted on their course regardless and must now bear the consequences. There is no guilt there for you."
Aglardaer gave him a hearty clap on the shoulder then. "Now, I know the day ahead will be difficult but a dread task does not get any easier for delaying it. Let us make our way to the throne room, do what must be done and consign this day to but a dark memory. And if you require something to help you through it all remember this: Legolas, your son, is alive and well despite the wiles of such evil men and he will be home at the turn of the season at the very latest - a mere few weeks. Let that thought steady and uplift you through today."
Thranduil exhaled the breath he had not been aware of holding and gave his friend a small determined smile. "As ever I am grateful for your counsel mellon-nin. Hannon-le." He gestured with his hand toward the door and followed as Aglardaer led the way to the beginning of the end of a very dark chapter.
~o~
This morning had been different; they had been awoken earlier than usual and escorted to go through their morning ablutions by their jailors who were even more grim faced and severe than usual. Then, instead of the usual soft cotton garments the elves had provided for them during their stay in the dungeons this morning saw their own clothes laid out for them - washed clean, any tears neatly mended and folded into immaculate piles. It was a little thing, just a minor change in their routine, but it was a thing that signified the routine had come to an end. This morning was the morning of the third day.
Their day of judgement had arrived.
Much to Blacwin's dismay their allotted time for breakfast was over all too soon and they were then being led up, up, up the balustrade-less, nausea inducing stairs and away from the dungeons that had weirdly become home. Their guards flanked them on every side as they led them briskly through the palace to their upcoming doom and it seemed no time at all before they were in the lushly carpeted corridor that led to the Elven King's throne room. Blacwin's legs felt weaker by the moment and by the time they arrived at the great gilded doors that led to the throne room's antechamber he felt as if they were hardly able to carry his weight - as though a simple breath might knock him over - and he was rather inexplicably glad for his guard who had a firm grip on his forearm.
Foreign words rang out around them in the strange lilting accent the elves had and Blacwin had only a few moments to wonder what they were saying before they were being summoned into the throne room proper. Grim faced elves lined the left side of the room, the anger in their eyes unmistakable; the Elven King himself sat high above them all, regal in his elaborate throne - his face a perfectly blank mask - with three silver-haired elves at his right hand, one female and two males. But most curiously of all - to Blacwin at least - was the presence of other men in the throne room. They lined the right side of the room and were clearly there under their own free will and power. Daring to take a closer look he noted that there were two distinct groups; the first appeared like the Woodsmen that they had set upon and whose village they had overtaken so long ago. The second group wore the colours and signage of Dale - this Blacwin was sure of, being a Dale citizen himself he was more than familiar with the garb of those who served the Dale King.
And it was the sight of these groups of his own kind that really set Blacwin on edge. The glares of the Woodsmen were heavy and brought home the truth of their sins against that people whilst the presence of men on behalf of the King of Dale made him feel rather peculiarly afraid. They had done no ill against Dale so far as he knew, not to mention he was the only one among his fellow prisoners who hailed from Dale with the others being from either the Long Lake or other small settlements scattered through Rhovanion. To see men from Dale here made Blacwin feel very, very nervous indeed.
Even as his nerves twisted themselves into ever tighter knots of anxiety one of the silver-haired male elves stepped down from the King's side, declared the court in session and began to read out the seemingly never-ending list of their crimes for the elven jury. It made for unpleasant hearing and it was all Blacwin could do to stand straight and not squirm at the sound of their sins laid bare in front of them.
"Venerable ellyn and ellith of the jury, now that you have the charges against these men and have had ample time to overlook the evidence what is your verdict please?"
"We the jury find these edain guilty of all the crimes accused."
The silver haired elf who had accused them was grave as he looked at them one by one. "Then guilty is the verdict. I handover now to King Thranduil who shall sentence you according to the laws of our people."
Blacwin felt his knees knock as true and deep fear took hold of him in face of the Elven King who now looked upon them no more blank-faced but instead in fell displeasure.
Slowly and with absolute authority the Elf King pronounced his doom upon each man whose name was read to him. The punishment saw Blacwin's worst fears realised.
Capital punishment.
Death.
Blacwin shuddered as he struggled to process what was happening. Somewhere deep down he had hoped against hope that the elves would be more merciful than this. Yet it seemed it was not to be as the Elven King continued to pronounce death upon his fellows one by one with cool dispassion.
"Blacwin son of Oldswin."
Blacwin shivered as his name was read aloud. It was his turn now – his turn to hear his fate sealed, his life sundered. He closed his eyes and braced for hearing the same words as his fellows – words that would put an end to his life.
"Life imprisonment – to be served out in the town of your birth Dale."
Blacwin's eyes shot open in surprise. Life imprisonment. Not death as he'd been bracing for but life imprisonment.
Through the fog of his relief Blacwin vaguely heard the Elven King explain that he'd been spared as the only man to show any remorse for his actions. He slumped slightly as the relief continued to course through his veins and loosen the tension that had bound him up in rigid knots. He had been spared – he was not to die – not this day. His life was still his even if it was to be served out behind bars.
Life imprisonment.
The reality hit Blacwin suddenly and stopped the feeling of relief in its tracks. Life imprisonment in Dale; it was sure to be very different from his stint in the elven dungeons. Where they'd had three square meals a day with the elves – a hot breakfast and supper with lunches made up of fresh bread, fruits and vegetables – he knew he'd be lucky to get even two lukewarm meals a day in the prison of Dale. And where he'd been kept warm with the elves he had no doubt his cell in Dale would be cold and dank.
The relief Blacwin had felt was rapidly being replaced with fear and dread. Dale prison life was sure to be completely unlike the quiet and (if he were being honest) easy life he'd had in elven captivity and perhaps that in itself was a big enticement for the Elven King to ship him off into Mannish captivity.
The man was given no further time to brood upon his upcoming punishment as his elven jailor gave him a firm nudge. "Move human, do not become stubborn now because you have been spared."
Blacwin blinked and brought himself firmly back to reality. "Huh?" was his ineloquent reply.
"The punishment of your fellows is to be carried out now. Have you not been listening adan?"
Truthfully he hadn't. "I... I...I'm in a bit of shock, sorry what else did the King say?"
His flame-haired jailor, who had always been the liveliest of the bunch, arched a perfectly shaped eyebrow at him. "I am not surprised - you have been lucky - your honesty and good behaviour has served you well. As to what you have missed Aran-nin has decreed that the punishments are to be carried out straightaway whilst we have representatives from two races of Men to ensure all is done properly and there is no wrongdoing by the elves."
"O-oh r-right," Blacwin stammered, "Am I to be brought along too?"
His jailor gave him another look, "Yes adan, for as soon as your fellows are dealt with I shall hand you over to the men of Dale who, as well as being your new guardians, are also witnesses to ensure justice is properly upheld."
The guard gave Blacwin another nudge to keep him moving and the man let himself be led feeling as though he were in a daze. They moved swiftly through the palace into the courtyard beyond and were soon in the forest itself. The deep green woods looked as menacing as ever and Blacwin had to force himself to keep moving as the shadows around the party grew ever deeper and longer as the sun was slowly but surely blocked by the generous canopy overhead. By the time they came to a halt near a small but fast flowing river there was only the odd spot of sunshine to be seen that filtered down to the forest floor through tiny gaps in the canopy. The all-consuming green tinged darkness coupled with the sombre mood of those gathered on the riverbank served to give a truly eerie atmosphere - one completely fitting for what was to come.
Blacwin watched with mounting horror as his fellow inmates were lined up and firmly held in place by their own guards directly before the gushing river. The Elven King, his silver haired accomplices and the two groups of men stood off to one side further back from the river all stony faced and deathly silent for a long moment before the King murmured something to the same elf who had pronounced them as guilty back in the throne room. The Elf bowed his silver head before he unsheathed a long and wickedly gleaming knife and made his way with intent to the first of the men held in line and Blacwin was suddenly overcome with a pressing need to be away from the proceedings before him - he didn't want to have to bear witness to this - to see men he had worked with put to death. He tried to step backwards, to turn his face from the horrors before him but his jailor held him firmly facing forward.
"Be still human, do not give the King cause to change his mind about you now."
"But... but I cannot... I cannot look."
His jailor gave a soft, unsympathetic snort before he leaned down to hiss in Blacwin's ear. "You had no such qualms when it was elven blood and the blood of the Woodsmen that was being spilt. Why so squeamish now?"
Blacwin had no words, no reply that would not sound trite or hypocritical and so he said nothing even as his heart clenched in fear as the silver haired elf with the very sharp blade placed it against the neck of the first man - Rhon. Blacwin could look no more then and firmly shut his eyes and wished that his hands were freed from their silver manacles that he might press them against his ears to block out the sounds also.
And such sounds they were; piteous begging and pleading spilled forth from the men lined up for execution all to no avail and the sounds that followed after...well, Blacwin was sure they would haunt his dreams for a long time yet to come.
~o~
After what felt like a torturously long time, though Blacwin supposed it was in actual fact only a few minutes, the noises - the sickening noises - stopped and he dared to open one eye. He scrunched it closed immediately but it was too late; he had already seen the lifeless bodies of his fellows now lying in a neat and orderly line and in a manner that allowed their blood to be drained – their life force washed away by the fast flowing, cleansing river.
His jailor was speaking to someone in front of them and though Blacwin knew it concerned him he again found himself unable to pay attention to the words that were spoken. He felt as though he had slipped back into his previous daze or perhaps more aptly this time a nightmare.
It was the feeling of smooth silver being removed from his wrists and being replaced with something far heavier that at last got his eyes to snap open once more. A burly looking man dressed in the colours of Dale was in the process of firmly clamping weighty iron shackles about his wrists as his elven guard took a step back and pocketed the lighter shiny silver manacles that had been a part of Blacwin's daily life for so long.
The red haired elf gave Blacwin a long look before he directed his gaze to another man arrayed in Dale finery. "He is all yours now – Blacwin is his name and he has been a model prisoner here so you ought not to have too much trouble with him."
Blacwin's new jailor finished securing his shackles with a snap, "Thank you Master Elf."
With a tiny bow of his head the elf turned away to join his fellows who had begun the grim task of dealing with the bodies. Blacwin hurriedly directed his eyes away from the sight though he could not help but call out, "What will happen to them?"
His former jailor stopped short and turned to face him again - expressionless as ever. "You are simply filled with questions today are you not adan? If it brings you any comfort," and the elf spat the word comfort as though it were a curse, "tokens will be kept from them to be passed on to what kin of theirs we have been able to find and their bodies will be burnt upon a pyre as is the custom of our people after their souls have been prayed for by the priests."
Blacwin nodded dumbly and the elf turned away once more.
"You ought not to be concerned with them any longer - the worst of it is over for them. For you on the other hand it has just begun."
Blacwin took a proper look at his new guardians for the first time. He'd expected two stern faces yet they both looked quietly but distinctly amused - an expression that Blacwin was sure boded nothing but trouble for him.
Still he felt the need to defend himself, "I worked with some of those men for a great long time - I simply wanted to know what would become of them. And how do you mean that for me it has just begun?"
"Hmph," the first guard snorted, "You ought to have kept better company - then perhaps you would not be in this fine mess. And it is exactly as I have said - your own ordeal is just beginning. Think you that you will have it as easy in Dale as you have had it here with the elves?"
"Indeed," the other guard chipped in. "The elves may have dungeons but they are still elves - we know you would have had nothing but a good time in there - warm and well fed. It shan't be like that in Dale - not where you're going."
"Aye, the King has a special cell marked out for you and everything. He's not best pleased that you have been here causing trouble with the Elven King - his number one ally and source of trade - oh yes, he's a very special spot marked out for you. Can't say I feel sorry for you either - you've got to be the damnedest kind of fool to think you could get away with any misdeeds against the elves."
Both men fell into deeply amused chortles then before one gave a yank on Blacwin's chains and begun to lead him back up the forest path away from the river and the sad cloth covered bundles upon its bank. They continued to mock him as they made their way forward and though it was disheartening to hear that there was most likely an especially grim cell waiting for him in Dale Blacwin said nothing and simply kept pace. The ruthless and unforgiving punishment of the elves was still fresh in his mind's eye and Blacwin knew that he was truly very lucky to be leaving the forest of the elves alive.
~o~
Thranduil sipped and slowly savoured the heady burgundy wine in his glass. It was a vintage wine - not nearly as fruity and rich as his favoured Dorwinion - but it was strong and strong was exactly what the Elven King felt was needed just then. He dragged his glance away from the ruby liquid and over to his companions; Aglardaer and Rithel had joined him on his private balcony sometime earlier and they'd sat in silence as they watched the wood below them get ever darker with the creeping dusk. It was a heavy though not uncomfortable silence as they drank and contemplated the events of the day.
At length, as the first star twinkled into existence in the now navy sky, Thranduil shifted so that he faced his best friend and commander of his army fully. "I must thank you for your actions today Aglardaer - I know it cannot have been easy for you to act as executioner but you have brought an end to what has been a trying and difficult chapter for me, my family and our people and so I thank you. Hannon-le mellon-nin. I am truly indebted to you."
Aglardaer drained his glass and reached over for the flagon to pour himself another before he spoke. "You needn't thank me Thranduil - I only did my duty."
"Duty or no it was still a difficult task that I asked of you and you have my gratitude for the way you carried it out."
His friend shrugged, "I did what had to be done and it is over now. I do not dwell on it so neither should you; as you say the chapter is closed, over and done with - these evil men are no more and we can all look forward to better things and better days ahead." Aglardaer gave a tiny smile for the first time that day, "Things such as Legolas' return home - before you know it he will be here with us once again to drink and watch the stars. The worst is over now mellon-nin, you can let yourself look forward again."
Thranduil smiled down into his glass before he too threw back what remained of his wine and reached over for his own refill. Aglardaer was right; summer was swiftly marching on and it would soon be autumn and the change of season held the promise of the return of his son. The very thought made him excited, to have Legolas here with him once more safe and sound.
The blonde grinned widely then at his daughter "Are you excited for your trip iell-nin?"
It was a rhetorical question; Thranduil knew Rithel was beside herself with excitement at the opportunity to go and at last be reunited with her baby brother - a fact that was proven with her exuberant answer.
"I have already packed Adar - I cannot wait to be off and away - to see Legolas again. I do not think we have ever been separated as long as this and I am anxious to put an end to it."
Thranduil nodded and sipped at his wine again - it was true, despite his children both being warriors in his army and therefore away more often than not, their time apart rarely went beyond three months. Rithel and Legolas were very close and he knew the absence had taken its toll on both of them.
"Legolas also waits impatiently for your reunion - he will be ecstatic to see you again. Now that all this business with the men has been concluded you are free to go iell-nin. I shall send word ahead advising Elrond to expect you and your escort imminently."
The smile that had graced Rithel's face grew even larger, "It will be exciting to visit Imladris, I think I shall enjoy it even if it is a city full of pompous Noldor. Though," his daughter tilted her head in thought, "do you think we shall be there overlong?"
Thranduil shrugged. "When we left Legolas was well on his way to full recovery - the hardest part of his rehabilitation was coming to an end and he needed only to regain his strength and fitness so that he might make the arduous journey back home over the Mountains. So to answer your question - nay, I do not think you shall be there too long. However it is for Elrond and him alone to decide when Legolas is well enough to be fully discharged and able to make the journey back to our Wood." The Elven King gave his daughter a stern look. "You are not to leave until you have Elrond's permission - regardless of what your honeg might tell you - if it ends up that you must overwinter there then so be it. I want you both safe and hale. We have all gone through too much for me to accept otherwise."
Rithel gave a tinkling laugh, "Worry not Adar, I will not let Lasseg beguile me with his big blue eyes and I will heed everything Hir Elrond says. Though I do hope you are correct in that we will not be there for too long before Las is deemed well enough for the journey back home."
"Good." Thranduil gave an emphatic nod of his head, "And when you are both returned here safe and sound I shall throw a feast to end all feasts!"
Aglardaer and Rithel both gave a cheer at that before the three of them fell into planning the Princess' trip to Imladris.
TBC.
Mellon / Mellon-nin – Friend / My friend
Adar – Father
Hir – Lord
Las-nin – My Leaf
Ion-nin – My Son
Naneth – Mother
Hortho le huil vaer – May useful winds speed you on
Guren nallatha nalú achenin le – My heart shall weep until I see thee again
Penneth – Young One
Hannon-le – Thank you
Yrch – (Plural of Orch) – Sindarin for Orcs
Edain – (Plural of Adan) Men
Aran-nin - My King
Mae athollen – Welcome back
Le suilannon – I give greetings to you
Iell-nin – My Daughter
Lasseg – Little Leaf – Family nickname for Legolas
Tharan-min – Vigourous One – a childhood nickname for Thranduil
Glass nín le – It is my joy to see you again
Suilad – Greetings
Ellyn – Male Elves
Ellith – Female Elves
Adan – Man
Honeg – Little Brother
A/N: So, I am sorry about the long wait for this chapter. It had already been finished and only needed editing and proof-reading; however something went bonkers on my laptop and when I rebooted half the chapter - half! – had been lost. I tried everything to recover it but for whatever reason it hadn't saved either to my laptop nor the cloud where I keep backups. To say I was upset was an understatement! (There were actual tears.) I had to do a re-write and was so demotivated for so long to work on this but I finally got myself in gear and got to writing it all again. So I do hope you've enjoyed and I hope to bring the next chapter to you as soon as I ever can - KimicT