CONTENT WARNING for Chapter 28: Rated M for Strong language, sexual themes, violence, and descriptions of gore.
DISCLAIMER: I do not own anything created by Tolkein and Middle-Earth. This is for entertainment only.
A/N: Sorry for the delay in updating! I was on vacation and then this chapter just became more and more difficult for me to write. But there is cause for celebration as this is the 30th chapter and I've surpassed 100K words! In honor of this momentous occasion, I present to you the longest chapter yet, complete with another steamy encounter with our favorite lovebirds!
Please leave reviews! It is growing hard to stay motivated without any feedback on if you guys are still enjoying the story or not.
I hope you enjoy!
XOXO - P
Song for the Chapter: "Dust to Dust" by the Civil Wars
Chapter 28 - The Scars That Forge Us
A scar does not form on the dying.
A scar means you suffered and survived.
- Chris Cleave
Thranduil sat with his arms resting casually against the fine wood that made up his throne. He wore robes of deep crimson over his black tunic, leggings, and boots and his grand crown rested on his head. His eyes were indifferent, but inwardly he took joy in seeing Allonde shift uncomfortably in front of him. The guards had led her in several minutes ago and Thranduil had only silently watched her since her arrival. She kept her eyes trained to the ground, obviously finding something fascinating to watch on the stone floor.
He finally decided to take mercy on the terrified elleth and spoke in a hushed yet demanding tone, "Look at me."
Allonde took several deep breaths and then slowly looked up to meet the King's cold gaze. He remained silent for another long moment, glaring at her before speaking again, "Do you know why you're here?"
Allonde silently nodded her head.
"Speak up, Allonde," Thranduil ordered as he rose from his throne and descended the steps, "I know that you have no problem in speaking your mind. So tell me why you have been summoned today."
Allonde took another deep breath and spoke in a soft voice, "I struck Lady Aurora."
"Lady Aurora, is it?" Thranduil arched an eyebrow and his expression darkened. He slowly circled her as he continued to speak "And here I thought she wasn't a Lady at all, by your standards. Simply a common whore."
"Aran nin (My King)," Allonde stammered, "I sincerely apologize for the offense that I have caused and will strive to make amends however you see fit."
"As I see fit?" Thranduil stopped in front of her and glared, "I saw fit to throw you in the dungeons for an indefinite amount of time. It was Lady Aurora, herself, who stayed my hand from such a punishment."
Allonde's eyes widened in surprise in hearing that Aurora had spoken on her behalf after she had been so cruel to her, "Thank you for your mercy, Aran nin (my King)."
"Do not thank me for something I have yet to show," Thranduil hissed and watched as Allonde cowered in front of him, "Your punishment will be as such; You are not permitted to attend the Equinox celebration or the Feast of Starlight. Instead, you will help the other servants to ensure that the celebrations go off without any problem. You will spend the next two months in the kitchens... Do you accept this punishment?"
Allonde nodded, on the verge of tears as she realized the leniency she was being shown, "Thank you, Aran Vuin (Beloved King)."
Thranduil took another step towards Allonde and he towered over her, "Know this Allonde, should you ever behave like this towards anyone that I love again, you will be banished from the Woodland Realm. Do not forget who saved Vynladae from the orcs."
A guard came to Allonde's side and escorted her from the throne room. Thranduil turned to one of the other guards who stood at the side door, "Where is she?"
The guard straightened as he replied, "She is in your study, Aran nin (my King). Just as you requested."
Thranduil walked through the side door and into his private study, closing the door behind him. She rose from her seat and curtsied to the King as he walked over to his large desk, "Please sit, Kasterren."
"Thank you, Aran nin (my King)," Kasterren leaned back in her seat and sighed, "I only wish it was under different circumstances."
"Yes, but I thank you for coming to me this morning to tell me of Allonde's altercation with Aurora," Thranduil paused and then leaned forward, "How are you, Kasterren?"
"I take it one day at a time, Your Majesty," Kasterren answered honestly.
"Is there anything else that you or your family require?" Thranduil asked, his voice softening, "You know that you need only ask."
"I am aware," Kasterren reverently nodded, "but we are well."
"I must ask you another question," Thranduil shifted uncomfortably, "it is unorthodox for me to do so, but I need— I need an opinion from one of my subjects, and there is no one whose advice I would trust more than yours."
"I am honored, Aran nin (my King)," Kasterren smiled, "What is it that I can offer my opinion on?"
"Aurora," Thranduil spoke directly, "although Allonde's words were out of line, I fear that she is not the only one who carries these feelings towards Aurora. What do you think of her, Kasterren?"
He truly is changing, She thought to herself. She settled into her chair and smiled softly, "Since her arrival in the palace, I have noticed subtle changes. Not only in you but around the kingdom and it's people."
"What type of changes?" Thranduil inquired.
"Hope. She brings a light to the Kingdom that I have not seen in a very long time and I am not alone in my thinking," Kasterren saw Thranduil arch an eyebrow at her as he listened, "my position here makes me privy to many conversations and I tend to hear a lot of talk within the healing halls. I can tell you that the general feeling towards the girl is simple. Aurora Merek, sister to Augustus and daughter of Kinarus of Lothlorien and Elara of Imladris... makes our Great Elvenking happy. Who are we to challenge the Valar in their decision to bring the two of you together?"
Thranduil sighed as he considered the healer's words, "And if the relationship progressed further?"
Kasterren smiled even wider at what her King was hinting towards, "I believe that the Kingdom would rejoice in celebrating a new Elvenqueen."
She had been sad that Thranduil was gone when she woke up. She had dressed quickly and grabbed a small bowl of fruit. Now, Aurora hummed a soft melody as she walked through her garden. Aurora heard someone clear their throat behind her and she turned to see Legolas standing at the entrance to the garden.
"Mae g'ovannen, Your Grace." Aurora smiled and offered the Prince a small curtsy.
"Aurora," Legolas arched an eyebrow in a way that made him look like his father, "Don't make me tell you again."
"I'm sorry… Legolas."
"That's better," Legolas smiled, "may I join you? I have yet to see the garden now that it has been redone."
"Of course, you are welcome here anytime." Aurora beckoned him as she sat on the bench under the weeping cherry blossom tree. "You said you haven't been here since the garden was redone, were you here often before?"
"Often," Legolas nodded as he sat down and pointed to the far end of the garden, "My naneth taught me to walk over by that window."
"Your naneth?" Aurora inquired.
"Yes, did— Did you not know?" Legolas furrowed his brow, "This was her garden. It's often referred to as The Queen's Garden."
"Oh, I didn't know that this was…" Aurora trailed off as she got lost in her thoughts. She took a deep breath and looked back up at the Prince, "Legolas… Are— Are you okay with your father and I courting?"
In the shadows, Thranduil had stopped mid-stride when he heard her question. He pressed himself into the climbing ivy that adorned the archway of her garden so he wouldn't be seen and listened closely. He had spoken with Legolas previously, but that was when they were traveling back from Rivendell and a lot had happened since then.
Legolas was taken aback by the question and just stared at Aurora for a long moment gathering his thoughts, "You make him happy. Who am I to not support the things that bring his heart happiness?"
"That is very kind of you to say Legolas," Aurora looked at him, "but that wasn't my question."
"I will be honest, Aurora," Legolas sighed and looked to the ground, "It has been... an adjustment seeing Ada with someone other than Naneth. For the past one thousand years, it has just been the two of us and we fell into a comfortable routine since Naneth sailed. We were content with how things were and resigned to the fact that they would always remain that way..."
Legolas paused and turned towards Aurora. He watched her brow furrow at his words so he continued, "and then... Ada encountered an elleth in need of assistance who ended up stabbing him."
Thranduil smiled softly at the memory and unconsciously grabbed the arm she had plunged her dagger into upon their first meeting.
Aurora bit her lower lip as she thought of the memory, "Do you have any idea how horrible I still feel about that?"
"Regardless..." Legolas chuckled softly and continued, "After that day I started to notice subtle changes in him. He wasn't as quick to anger, he began letting his indifferent mask slip away. I trusted the Lady of Light's words that you would aid in helping Greenwood be restored to its former glory, but at the time I was not privy to the full prophecy. After the attack on Rivendell and seeing how he stood by you in that clearing; I began to think that maybe there was more than just 'being content'. Once we started traveling through the mountains, I noticed my father drifting towards you and I was confused. I didn't know why I always caught him stealing glances at you when you weren't looking. Then the night you were taken by the Orcs was when I knew that he cared deeply."
Aurora furrowed an eyebrow, "What do you mean?"
Thranduil leaned in closer to hear what Legolas would say, he had never heard his son speak so candidly about his feelings.
Legolas continued his story, "When I saw him emerge from that cave he was covered in blood; both orcs and his own. He had killed 11 of those foul beasts within that cave so he could get out of there and find you. His eyes were frantic and terrified, a look I had not seen for a very long time. When he saw you on that trail he was so relieved that I thought he would shed tears of joy. Then there was the spider attack. Once I realized the true purpose of the attack, I ran through the trees trying to desperately find the two of you. When I looked down and saw how he held you behind his back, clinging to you as he fought... How he was so prepared to die for you... That is when I knew Ada had found the one his heart called out for."
Aurora listened and didn't move as Legolas spoke. She opened her mouth to speak several times but words failed her at this moment.
Legolas noted this and finished his tale, "So that is why I have answered the way I have. I was unsure of you in the beginning, but you make him happy; happier than I have ever seen him. I see it in you, too. When you look at him and he doesn't notice your gaze, I can see the love you hold for him. And because I have seen that love with my own eyes, I know that you two will be happy together... Until the end of your days." Legolas took Aurora's hand in his and squeezed it softly, "So to answer your question, yes Aurora... Your courtship with Ada brings my heart joy."
Aurora felt tears rolling down her cheeks, she didn't even realize that she had begun to cry at Legolas's words, "Thank you, for your candor Legolas. I do love him… More than I ever thought I could love anyone."
Legolas pulled Aurora into a tight hug. Thranduil emerged from his hiding spot and spoke as cool as possible, "What is this sweet embrace for? Have I missed something?"
"Ada," Legolas stood and bowed his head, "how long have you been here?"
Thranduil cocked his head and looked at his son, "I only just arrived."
Liar, Thranduil heard Aurora's voice in his head. He looked at her and found her smiling at him. She offered him a curtsy and spoke sweetly, "Good morning, Your Majesty."
Thranduil walked towards her, "Lady Aurora…" He looked to Legolas again as he stopped in front of Aurora, "Legolas, if you'll excuse. I have some business to discuss with our fair Lady."
Legolas gave another nod and quickly departed. Thranduil looked back and watched him leave and when he was satisfied he turned back to Aurora and kissed her. His arms wrapped around her and he pulled her closer, "I'm sorry I wasn't there when you woke up, Ilma nin (my Starlight). I had business to attend."
"I understand," Aurora stood on her tiptoes and kissed him again, "You're here now and that is all that matters."
Thranduil broke away from her and took her hand as they began walking around the garden, "I spoke with Allonde this morning," he began. He saw Aurora's surprised expression, "she has been properly punished and, I believe, feels to remorse for her actions."
"Thank you," Aurora whispered, "for not going the dungeon route with your punishment. But let's talk of happier things."
"Did you have something in mind?" Thranduil arched an eyebrow in her direction.
"When is your birthday?" Aurora inquired.
"The date of my birth is always celebrated on the Autumn Equinox."
"But when is your actual birthday?" Aurora pressed.
"In two days," Thranduil paused and looked at Aurora, "why the inquiry?"
"Well you are turning 6,000 years old," Aurora shrugged, "I want to plan something for you. Just the two of us."
Thranduil caressed her cheek, "Simply having you here is gift enough, meleth nin (my Love)."
"Too bad," Aurora chuckled as Thranduil rolled his eyes in defeat, "I'm planning something. I have to spoil you on your birthday… Thrandy-poo."
Thranduil froze in his steps and he pursed his lips into a thin line. He took a long, deep breath; slowly looking down to see Aurora's amused smile as she tried to contain her laughter, "Never call me that again."
Aurora burst out laughing, "Oh come on. It's a sweet story."
"No, it's not."
"I disagree, and it is a story of yours I shall treasure always… Along with the others."
"The others?!" Thranduil exclaimed, "are you even learning about elven culture anymore? Or are you and Sankrovyn simply braiding each other's hair and gossiping?"
He walked among the trees without fear; he knew that the patrols had not been sent back out yet, He heard a twig snap and he paused, listening for any other movement. He began walking again and rounded a corner and instantly felt a hand wrap around his throat. He was slammed back against the tree and his head broke the bark that it connected with. The figure in front of him glared maliciously and lowered his hood.
"Always a pleasure to see you, Duath Aran nin (my Shadow King)," Sam drawled.
"You forget your place, Samindiel," the Shadow King hissed, "you will not be so foolish again, do you understand me?"
"Whatever you wish, my King," Sam took several deep breaths as the Shadow King released him, "you told me to get the girl to the clearing and I did."
"In doing so you felt the need to maim the Captain's of the Guard?!" The Shadow King moved quickly and slapped Sam across the face, "In case you haven't noticed, Aurora is still no closer to Dol Guldur than when she first arrived in the forest."
Sam stared wide-eyed at his Master as he held his cheek, "It has been difficult considering she always has four guards on her. Not to mention her brother… Even back in the other world, that stupid cunt was rarely—"
Sam didn't finish his sentence as he felt the dagger sink into his wrist, pinning it to the tree. He screamed in shock and pain as he felt a hand at his throat again. The Shadow King leaned in close to Sam's face and spoke low with venom in his voice, "Do not insult her like that again! She is your Queen. I don't know what you did to her in that other realm, and if I ever find out it is likely I would kill you and give her your head as a wedding gift. Your job has been and will always be to bring her to me. Should you fail me again, It will not be I who punishes you, but the Nazgul. Ni cheniog? (Do you understand me?)"
Sam nodded quickly, feeling the fear rising in him at the mention of the Nazgul. He watched as the Shadow King straightened up again and held his gaze. Sam watched as the Shadow King pulled another dagger from his robes.
"What are you doing?" Sam whispered in terror.
The Shadow King gripped Sam's pinned hand and held the dagger against two of his fingers. He looked into the scared ellon's face. Sam could see the shadows darken within his eyes as the Shadow King spoke in an objective tone, "Making recompense…"
Aurora gave Egg a final kiss as she closed his stall door and left the stable. The sun was beginning to set and all she could think of was taking a hot bath and relaxing her sore muscles. She was walking up the path to the palace with her guards when she heard someone call out to her.
"Lady Aurora!"
She turned to see Tauriel walking towards her, "Mae g'ovannen, Tauriel."
Tauriel stopped in front of Aurora, placed a hand over her heart and bowed low to her. When she looked back up, Aurora noted that she had tears beginning to well in her eyes, "Lady Aurora, what you did for me that night in the clearing… I could never— I will always be in your debt."
Before Aurora could reply Tauriel pulled Aurora into a tight hug and Aurora could only wrap her arms around the elleth in return. Tauriel broke away and wiped the tears from her eyes, "If you ever require anything, Hiril Vuin (Beloved Lady), I will serve you."
Tauriel sprinted back to the training field, leaving Aurora dazed. What just happened? She thought.
"Are you okay, Hiril Vuin (Beloved Lady)?"
Aurora turned to see that Tonever had stepped forward from the other guards. She quietly nodded her head, "Yeah, just… That was unexpected."
"She isn't alone in her sentiment, Lady Aurora," Dusan spoke up as they continued walking back to the palace, "many of the soldiers have vowed a life debt to you for saving our Captains."
Aurora considered their words as they walked back down the royal corridor. She was broken out of her thoughts when she saw Lord Elrond and his sons leaving the library with Augustus.
"As I live and breathe," Elrohir proclaimed as he saw her, "if it isn't the valiant warrior known as Lady Aurora."
Aurora rolled her eyes as she hugged the twins, "Don't make me hit you again."
Elrohir feigned terror and covered his lower region. Lord Elrond laughed as he met Aurora's gaze. He took her hand and placed a soft kiss on the back of it, "It is a delight to see you again, Lady Aurora."
"The pleasure is mine, Hir nin (my Lord)." Aurora curtsied and turned to Augustus, "What were you all doing in the library?"
"Oh," Augustus shrugged, "I was sharing some research with Elladan and Elrohir. Lord Elrond found me to check on my wound."
"And what was the verdict, Lord Elrond?" Aurora asked, "Am I still stuck with my brother's annoying company?"
Lord Elrond smiled softly, "I am afraid so, my Lady."
The group all laughed again, "What brings such laughter to the corridor today?"
They all turned to see Thranduil walking down the hall and there was a mixture of bows and curtsies; then Aurora spoke up, "Lord Elrond was just reassuring me that my brother is healing well, Your Majesty. He should be around to annoy me for years to come."
"Good news indeed," Thranduil stopped by the group, "Lord Elrond, your request to meet with Kasterren has been granted, she waits for you in the healing halls."
Lord Elrond gave another nod and walked away from the group. The twins looked to Augustus and Elladan spoke up, "I believe Master Augustus was going to show us his improved swordsmanship skills before the sun leaves us for the evening. So we will excuse ourselves as well. Lady Aurora, a pleasure as always."
The three nodded to Aurora and gave the King another bow as they left the hall, leaving the pair alone. Thranduil offered Aurora his arm and she hooked her arm in with his as they walked the rest of the way to his chamber. He led her into the parlor and closed the door behind them. The fire had already been started and an evening meal had been laid out for them.
Aurora felt herself being pulled back against Thranduil as he pressed his chest into her back. One arm wrapped around her waist as the other moved her braid over her shoulder. His hand drifted from her shoulder until his fingers laced in with hers. He placed a soft kiss on the space where her neck and shoulder met. He began trailing kisses up her neck as she closed her eyes and leaned her head back against his chest. She laced her fingers in between his hand that clung to her waist. Her other hand broke away from Thranduil's grip as she reached back and ran her fingers along the back of his neck and scalp. His other hand drifted under her tunic as he continued kissing her, running his tongue along her ear until she inhaled sharply. He felt the porcelain skin of her stomach as he ran his hand upward and cupped her breast.
Aurora's breath hitched in her throat as his other hand found it's way under her tunic and he was massaging both of her breasts gently. She started to breathe heavier as she ran her hands down his back until they rested on his hips and she surprised him by pulling his hips closer to her, feeling him pressed against her. She began to move back against him as he continued his ministrations. She turned around in his arms and pressed her chest against his and looked deep into his eyes.
In a moment he captured her lips in a heated kiss, his tongue plunging into her mouth as she wrapped her arms around his neck. He slowly walked her backward until the back of her leg hit the settee. They broke apart, Thranduil was breathing heavily, "I missed you today, Ilma nin (my Starlight)."
Aurora smiled, "I can see that, Vuin nin (my Beloved)."
She walked Thranduil around to the armchair that faced the fire and pushed him gently into the seat. Without hesitation, she straddled his lap and began kissing him urgently. She could feel his excitement growing and she rolled her hips against him, eliciting a low groan from his chest. His hands quickly found their way under her tunic again and lifted the fabric of both shirts over her head. She inhaled sharply again as he began playing with her breasts, one of his hands following the fabric of her bra until he found the back clasp and paused.
Aurora… She heard his voice in her head and she paused as well to meet his fathomless blue eyes.
It's okay, He heard her voice in his head.
He took a deep breath as he unclasped the bra, his fingers looped under the fabric as he pulled the garment from her bare skin. He stared in wonderment at the beautiful sight of her bare chest as the orange glow of the fire danced across her skin. He quietly leaned forward and kissed her collarbone, his hands resting just under her chest. She began slowly moving against him and ran her fingers against his scalp as his trail of kisses continued. He kissed across both of her collarbones and then down the spot between her breasts and paused. He locked eyes with her and purposefully moved against her, causing her to close her eyes and arch her back. He waited until she opened her eyes again and met his gaze. Thranduil wrapped an arm around her waist again and his right hand rested under her breast, lightly squeezing. When they were staring deep into each other's eyes, he lowered his mouth so it covered her left breast.
He rolled his tongue over her nipple and Aurora whimpered softly at the sensation. She had never felt such an amazing feeling and she felt a flame igniting in her core as she continued to move against his lap. Thranduil continued his attentions to her left breast as his right hand continued to massage the other one. He trailed kisses down her breast and over to the other one, continuing the same attention that the other was given. His hand left her waist and began massaging the left breast as Aurora continued to pant heavily and press her hips harder against him.
His right hand trailed down her waist and she shivered under his touch. His hand continued downward until he was running it up and down her leg. He slowly moved his hand up her legging-clad thigh, his thumb massaging circles into her inner thigh until he reached her core. He flicked his tongue against her nipple at the same time that he began massaging her bud with his thumb.
"Fuck," Aurora moaned loudly as she dug her nails into his shoulder, "Thranduil…"
Thranduil broke away from her breast and looked at her face once more. She had her eyes tightly closed and her head tilted back; a look of pleasure painted her features. He continued massaging her and she began to move against his hand. He ran his other hand up her back and she finally looked at him. She quickly removed his tunic and began kissing him possessively; her tongue exploring his mouth. He quickened his pace against her bud and he could feel it beginning to twitch as she grew wet at his touch.
Aurora could feel the fire building in her core at Thranduil's touch as she continued kissing him. She began to see stars behind her closed eyelids as she could feel herself getting close to falling over the edge. Thranduil could feel her thighs beginning to tense against his lap. He broke their kiss and pressed his forehead against hers as Aurora's breathing became erratic and her moans filled the parlor.
"Come for me Aurora," his husky voice commanded. He pressed his thumb harder against her bud as he massaged her faster, "Let go, meleth nin (my Love)."
Aurora continued to grind against his hand as he continued his movements. She felt the fire in her core explode as she fell off the edge and began falling in pure bliss. She screamed his name and dragged her fingernails across his shoulders as he continued to massage her through her peak. He slowed his pace as he watched her come down from the high of her orgasm.
Aurora leaned in and kissed him again, shivering as he ran his hands up her sides again. She kissed down his neck and ran her hands up and down his chest and abdomen. As her hands explored him, one of her hands drifted down to the top of his leggings. She broke away from their kiss and hesitated for a moment as she felt his hand clasp over the top of hers.
"You don't need to do this Aurora," Thranduil spoke in a low tone.
"I know," Aurora whispered back and her hand traveled down from the hemline, "but I want to."
Thranduil hissed as Aurora's hand traced his outline through his leggings with her hand. She stroked him several times as Thranduil quickly released the ties of his leggings. He took her hand in his and led it back up until her hand rested at the hem of the leggings once more.
"Please Aurora," Thranduil begged as he closed his eyes; his voice hardly audible. He held onto Aurora's hand and slowly began pushing it down the top of his leggings, "I need to feel your touch..."
His breath hitched as her hand moved below his leggings. Aurora smiled as she felt him in her hand for the first time. He twitched at her touch and Thranduil inhaled sharply as she began moving her hand up and down. Aurora slowly lowered herself to the floor so she was kneeling in front of him.
"What are you doing?" Thranduil asked.
"Repaying you for your kindness to me," Aurora smirked.
Thranduil arched an eyebrow as he looked down at her, "And how do you hope to accomplish that from down there?"
"Do elves not… Have you never…" Aurora drifted off as she saw Thranduil's genuinely confused expression. "Oh Vuin nin (my Beloved)... I am going to blow your mind." Aurora offered her best seductive smile and she continued to stroke him and she slowly started pulling down his leggings. Thranduil groaned as she pulled him from his leggings. Aurora looked him up and down as her hand continued to move against him.
Thranduil watched through half-closed eyes as Aurora moved closer to him so her legs were flush against the armchair and as she lifted herself and leaned close to him. Thranduil watched her through glazed eyes as she placed kisses up his thigh, in between each kiss Aurora would look back up to Thranduil and his eyes grew wider with each kiss.
"Aurora…" His breathing was becoming erratic as she got closer to where her hand was still working him, "What are you—"
His question was cut short as Aurora placed a kiss on the tip of him and he moaned loudly. Thranduil shuddered as he felt her tongue lick down to meet her hand as she continued stroking him. She licked up to his tip again and circled her tongue around him. Thranduil involuntarily moved his hips forward as she took him into her mouth. He couldn't believe what she was doing to him and the beautiful sight of her kneeling before him. He tilted his head back so it rested on the armchair as he continued to subtly move his hips towards her mouth.
She continued going down on him as her hand moved up and down. She glanced up at him again and met his lust-filled gaze. The corners of her mouth curved upward at the sight of his face; the pure pleasure was written into the features of his face. His brows were furrowed together and his eyes were glazed. His mouth hung slightly open as his breathing grew heavier as she continued her attentions.
His hips were moving in rhythm with her now and he ran his fingers through her braided hair and pulled her head closer to him. He could feel the pressure building and he knew he wasn't going to last much longer. He moaned louder as she licked along his shaft again and she looked up at him again.
"Ilma nin (my Starlight)," Thranduil whispered. His hands gripped her braid and he continued moving with her mouth, "I can't take it anymore, Aurora."
Thranduil felt his pressure build to a blinding height and he shouted her name as he spilled into her mouth. She continued to move on him as she swallowed several times and she continued stroking him with her hand as she took him out of her mouth. She relished at the sight of him falling apart at her touch. His head was back against the chair and he was breathing heavily, his fingers still tangled in her hair.
Aurora released him from her grip as she leaned back on her feet, still kneeling in front of him. Thranduil took several more moments to calm his breathing. He looked down at her and his hand left her hair and cupped her cheek. "Come up here," his voice was hoarse as he pulled her up to him.
She straddled him again and he kissed her roughly. His tongue moving with hers in their familiar dance. He broke away and pressed his forehead to hers once more; both of them were breathing heavily and they took a long moment to calm themselves.
"I believe our dinner has gone cold," Aurora laughed.
"I much prefer the treat before me," Thranduil kissed her again and smiled against her lips, "You were correct my darling... That was indeed mind-blowing."
"The perimeters have been secured, My Lady," Haldir informed as he approached the bonfire where his Lord and Lady sat, "we should reach the Palace of Greenwood by tomorrow night."
"Very good Marchwarden," Lord Celeborn smiled, "come and enjoy the fire."
Haldir nodded slightly and took a goblet of wine that his brother offered, "Le fael, Rumil. (Thank you, Rumil.)"
Lady Galadriel looked into the darkness of the trees, "Someone is out there."
Haldir and Rumil were on their feet within a moment and walking towards the trees where she was looking. They drew swords and began searching. Rumil walked around the corner of a tear and felt a large mass collapse onto him.
"Natho… (Help...)" the voice whispered.
"Hanar! Si! (Brother! Here!)" Rumil called out and supported the weight of the person he carried.
Haldir ran over and saw his brother supporting the weight of an Ellon. Haldir scanned over his injuries. His head was bleeding and blood was dripping onto the grass from a wound to his lower arm. Haldir leaned in and looked closer to the ellon's hand. "Amarth faeg! (Evil fate!)" Haldir exclaimed, "I need healers!" He called out to the encampment and turned his attention back to the bleeding Ellon. He ripped part of his tunic and started applying pressure where two fingers used to be.
Aurora dried herself off after her bath, drying her hair as best she could and deciding to leave it down. She put on one of Thranduil's tunics that she had grabbed on her way down to the hot spring. She held the collar of the tunic to her face as she breathed in the scent of cedar and smoky vanilla. Thranduil had already bathed and left Aurora to soak for a while. She climbed the stairs back into Thranduil's room and didn't find him in the bedchamber anywhere. She noticed that the door leading out to the parlor was open so she walked over and stopped in the doorway.
Thranduil was standing by his wall of books and he held an old leather-bound volume in his hands. His eyes were scanning the page, his brow furrowing as he read. Aurora watched him silently and marveled at how he still managed to look regal in only a simple tunic and leggings. He suddenly turned and looked at her, revealing that he had dropped the glamour from his face. His eyes wandered up and down her body. His heart skipped a beat at the sight of her in nothing but one of his tunics, her legs bare and her hair down and beginning to curl as it dried.
"Hey you," Aurora whispered as she walked over to him.
"Hey you," Thranduil spoke her words back to her and wrapped his arm around her as she reached him.
He leaned down and placed a chaste kiss on her lips as she wrapped her arms around his waist. She pressed her cheek against his chest and looked at the book he held. Her eyes scanned the page but she couldn't read any of the elvish written on the page, "What are you reading?"
Thranduil closed the book and looked down at Aurora, "Just refreshing my memory on some things that you and I should discuss eventually."
"Oh?" Aurora questioned her brow furrowing, "Should I be concerned?"
"Of course not, Ilma nin (my Starlight)," Thranduil smiled wide and led Aurora over to the settee. They sat down, Aurora crossing her legs underneath her as their fingers laced back together, "but tonight is not the night for such discussions."
Thranduil's hand stroked her arm as it traveled upward. His fingers began to trace the pink swirls and patches that covered her arm and shoulder. Aurora sighed, placing her hand on his scarred cheek watching as he leaned into her touch. She stroked his cheek softly, her finger following the line of the deep scars.
She took a deep breath and finally asked the question that had crept in the back of her mind for months, "What happened?"
Thranduil cupped his hand over hers as she held his cheek. He closed his eyes and leaned further into her hand. He kept his eyes closed for a long moment before speaking so soft that Aurora barely heard him, "Dragon-fire."
"Dragon-fire?" Aurora repeated, feeling Thranduil curl his fingers around hers. He opened his eyes to meet hers. Aurora saw the distant look in his eyes, "It is still difficult for me to speak of, Ilma nin (my Starlight)."
"Don't speak then," Aurora cupped his cheek with both of her hands. She pulled his hand that held hers and placed it on her cheek; positioning his index finger near her temple, "Show me."
Thranduil considered her words for a moment before his eyes widened at the realization of what she had offered. He quickly pulled his hands away from her and stood up. He stared down at her for a long moment, "You do not know what you ask."
"Yes I do," Aurora stood up and took his hand into hers again, "Let me help you carry the burden of your pain."
"Aurora..." Thranduil pleaded but his voice trailed off as he looked at the determined look in her eyes. He didn't want to burden her with the pain he felt from that horrific day; but wasn't he going to be asking the same of her? He took a deep breath and squeezed her hands, "On one condition."
Aurora's heart dropped. She knew what the condition was going to be before he said it, "Anything."
"When you're ready..." Thranduil pulled her closer to him and he pressed his forehead to hers, "You'll share your burden with me. All of it. Everything he did that brought you pain."
Aurora felt anxiety begin to creep into her chest at his words. She swallowed hard and closed her eyes. Her voice trembled as she whispered, "Okay."
Thranduil held Aurora's hand tight as they stood facing each other, he squeezed it once more before letting it go and moved his hands on either side of her face. Aurora mirrored his movements and placed her hands onto his face. Thranduil took several deep breaths, "If it becomes too much, you can break the connection. Do you understand?"
Aurora looked into his piercing blue eyes and she saw fear in them, "I will. Gweston (I promise)."
Thranduil looked deep into Aurora's eyes. He felt a pull at the back of his head as he opened his mind and focused on the memory that had haunted him for twenty-five hundred years.
Thranduil was running down a darkened corridor, he could hear elves screaming up ahead. He looked behind to see several elves running behind him.
"Maetho i megil dhin! (Draw your swords!)" Thranduil called behind him as the group ran into the cavern.
They stopped momentarily to take in the sight before them. The dragon was reared back as dozens of arrows flew into the creature. Thranduil looked around and saw several soldiers trying to rescue the women and children but they were blocked by the beast's tail.
Thranduil looked around and caught sight of the soldier he was looking for, "Sankrovyn! Di-im! (Sankrovyn, with me!)"
Sankrovyn looked to Thranduil and nodded sharply, running towards him. Over his shoulder, he called to other soldiers, "Berio i Cuan! Dago i goth! (Protect the Prince! Kill the enemy!)"
Thranduil rand towards where those being held captive by the dragon were cowering. He skidded to a stop as a large tail dropped in front of him and he swiftly sliced at the creature and it roared in protest. Thranduil continued running through the cavern trying to reach the terrified hostages.
Sankrovyn saw the dragon turn towards Thranduil and he sprinted towards his friend and Prince, "Thranduil, daro! (Thranduil, stop!)"
Thranduil was almost to the huddled group when he felt something grip the back of his armor. Just as he was being pulled backward he felt the heat encase him as he saw the fire consume the elves cowering in the corner. The flames latched onto him and he screamed in agony. Sankrovyn ripped off his cloak and snuffed out the flames that covered Thranduil as he pulled him away from the flames of the dragon.
"NATHO! (HELP!) Stay with me mellon nin (my friend)," Sankrovyn pleaded as he picked up Thranduil as the Prince continued to scream in pain, "The Halls of Mandos will not greet you today."
Aurora's eyes refocused and she stumbled and gripped the side of the armchair. She was breathing heavily and she could feel sweat beading across her forehead. She felt Thranduil's hand on her back. She steadied herself and took several deep breaths. She turned around to see Thranduil standing over her; tears were streaming down his face.
"Thranduil," Aurora breathed as she put a hand on his chest. She cupped his scarred cheek and he closed his eyes again, "I am so sorry, Vuin nin (my Beloved)."
Aurora wrapped her arms around his waist and Thranduil slowly tightened his arms her shoulders. She could feel him begin to tremble as his sobs became uncontrolled.
"I couldn't save them…" Thranduil collapsed further into Aurora's arms.
Aurora held Thranduil and began leading him towards the bedchamber. She laid him down on the bed and she quickly climbed under the blankets next to him. He wrapped his arms around her waist and rested his head against her chest.
She wrapped her arm around his shoulder and pulled him closer to her. One of her hands lightly stroked his hair as she placed a soft kiss on the top of his head. She remembered words of comfort that Thranduil once told her and she whispered them back to him, "It's okay to fall apart, meleth nin (my Love). I will put you back together."
