Disclaimer: I don't own them, repeat.
The day was warm with bright summer air and mirth. White banners flew from every post in the city, declaring that the King was about to take his Queen. No cloud dared mar the sky on this beautiful day, thereby allowing the pure blue sky to be warmed by the golden rays of the sun.
All members of esteem were present in the Great Hall as the wedding commenced. The High Elves stood serenely beside Lord Elrond in front of the tier, dressed in the finest clothes made by their own. Elrond appeared focused yet moved with emotion, allowing himself a smile to grace his exterior.
Close by in the rows were the members of the Fellowship, as well as my father and myself. I had barely escaped the clutches of the overly excited servants without being forced into a series of restrictive garments. I had possessed the good sense to rise early and was greeted by Ithiel, who was genuinely pleased to see me. As was her way, she dressed me wisely and beautifully, considering my comfort and speaking easily with me. She had brought my garments from Lothlorien, and I had chosen to wear the blue silk gown that now hung a little closer to me, as I was well fed and not as scrawny. Ithiel had been kind enough to fix my hair with the lovely pearls from Galadriel.
Now I stood beside Legolas and my father, both of whom had been dressed quite regally for the occasion. Legolas wore a finely made silver tunic, a gift from Lord Celeborn, that shimmered like pure moonlight, his hair carefully braided away from his face. His eyes were fixed upon the Lord and Lady who stood hand in hand in front of so many people.
Aragorn stood proudly, a king in all his rights. The elf stone glimmered brightly on his brow, his hair gleaming beneath the golden crown, accentuated by the green and gold tunic he wore. Arwen glowed in an iridescent white gown, hair dark hair cascading down her back, illuminated by white jewels set among her tresses. Both people seemed majestic and worthy of their titles.
As the pair kissed, a cheer rose up among the people. A union was set between Gondor and Rivendell, Men and Elves, Human and Mortal. Still the only thing that mattered to them was their love, and I saw it in their eyes.
Elisen stared at the ring upon my hand, his eyes crinkled in thought. "Your future is secure then, Naitha," he said happily. "I will be able to rest well knowing you are provided for."
I smiled, clasping his hand. "Thank you, father."
Glancing at the king and queen as they danced, Elisen then turned to Legolas, his face somewhat weary. "I hope you will give my daughter as much joy as Aragorn has found, Legolas. Realize that I have given you the only treasure I possess."
Bowing his head, Legolas replied, "By my life, I swear she will know no pain or hardship, Elisen, as well as I may provide for her. She shall be as well protected as any member of my household, and I will not bring her shame or dishonor."
Through the crowds, I spotted a woman approaching. Her chestnut hair flowed around her slight shoulders, her clear gray eyes fixed upon me as she smiled warmly. She walked with an ease that would have made the very air envy her grace.
"Galain!"
"Andariel." Her gentle voice flowed through my mind as she embraced me tightly, the scent of clear water running beneath a summer sun wafting through my senses.
"Mae govanenn, nin mellon."
The she-elf cocked an eyebrow, smiling in approval. "Mae govanenn, nin mellon. I see all our ways have not been lost upon you. In fact, I believe you to have learned quite well, as you often said you would." Her eyes flicked between the members of our group.
"Father, this is Galain of the House of Elrond. She tended to me while I recovered in Rivendell. This is my father, Elisen of Arnad," I introduced, flushing slightly at seeing more of my old friends.
Elisen bowed deeply to the Lady as she lowered her head in return. "I thank you for caring for my daughter, Lady," he said. "Without your aid, I may never have known of her again."
"It was a pleasure to become acquainted with one of such great heart," she answered, meeting the man's eyes steadily. "She is of such a strength I have rarely seen in a mortal woman, otherwise she could not have endured what she has."
Turning to Legolas, Galain said, "All things occur for a reason. Legolas, it is good to see you again. I can hardly imagine what you have seen in your travels through darkness."
Legolas nodded, his features relaxed as he spoke. "I have seen much evil in the world, but all that matters now is I am reunited with those I care for and the world is at peace." He slid an arm around my waist, pulling me close as I was nestled at his side.
Raising an eyebrow, Galain smiled. "I am happy for you both. During these past seasons, I have realized how you belong together. How you do steal maidens' hearts, Legolas, mortal or immortal! Now I have heard you are taking her to Mirkwood?"
He smiled, glancing down at me. "She must be introduced to my father; I fear if I wait any longer another chance may not come again for some time. After all, so much has happened in this past year."
"Surely he will be patient," I suggested hopefully.
"He has been patient that I have been absent from his home for the past year. It is I who am impatient to introduce you," he answered, eyes watching me carefully, twinkling in the candlelight. "I am weary of abandoning you, Andariel. I desire to create a home of our own at last, that we may both rest and be free from worries."
I smiled, resting a hand upon his arm. "That is a dream I have held for quite awhile." I looked to watch Aragorn and Arwen as they moved swiftly throughout the room, heedless of any others present. The joy they now possessed was akin to what lay in my own heart, and I yearned to live quietly. All those I had met and loved lingered in the room, and for a moment I forgot that soon we would all go our own ways.
Turning to Galain, I asked, "Will you journey to the Gray Havens with the others?"
The calm of her face broke with my question, and she gazed at me in surprise for a few moments. Her bright eyes clouded a bit as she reflected upon her answer. "I will," she replied quietly. "When Lord Elrond takes his course, I will be at his side."
My face fell beyond my control. I felt my throat tighten with sorrow at losing yet another of my companions to this forsaken place I had heard all too much of. Sighing deeply, I nodded. "I expected as much."
Galain moved to me, gently touching my face as she held my gaze. "I am sorry, Andariel, for it grieves my heart to know that I must leave you. I cannot linger upon Middle Earth longer than the time I was given; I am weary, little one. Know that the time is yet to come, and I will remain with you awhile longer."
My eyes stung with repressed tears as I gazed upon her beautiful face. Shuddering slightly, I nodded once again. "I know," I whispered. "I only ask that you will be with me for the time remaining, and let me say good-bye to you before you leave."
"Of course."
The month went by all too quickly, and soon enough I was packed to leave for Mirkwood. The hobbits were also preparing to journey back to the Shire, and I felt a strange longing to go with them. Still, my path was set; I had yet to face the King of Mirkwood, gain his favor before I would be allowed to settle and rest. Frodo was anxious to see Bilbo again, and the others were quite prepared to journey to their own homes. Aragorn was to depart with the High Elves so they would depart to their countries and set their affairs in order. I was told that they were to journey into Rohan with the deceased king, Theoden, who had died bravely in the Last Battle. There was much activity and little time to enjoy the peace of the city.
Still, I had determined that I would spend time with all of my companions who had aided me so bravely. I spoke much with Pippin, assuring him that I would visit his home and keep an eye on him, to which he told me he would look forward to such a visit. Though I knew of his affections for me, he was kind and merely told me I would always be in his heart. It seemed a pity to disappoint such a brave young halfling, though he had known from the moment we met my heart was promised to someone else. Frodo seemed tired, though it did not dampen his spirits too much as Sam was constantly by his side. Merry spoke often with Gandalf, who entertained me with many stories of his own adventures until I could no longer keep my eyes open. Whenever possibly, I relaxed in the company of the Lady Galadriel, hoping her wisdom would somehow pass onto me. She too spoke much of what she had seen and heard in her many years, and it filled me with a wonder unlike any other. I felt much peace and happiness in this time among the great heroes of the age, and I often wished it would never end.
Sadly, all my joyous times seemed to end too quickly, and before I realized it we were all preparing to depart, some to the north, some to the south and west.
The day had come at last, and I stood silently amidst all those whom I loved. Summer was warm and bright all around us, and I felt my spirit battle the joy it stood for against the bitter sorrow that lay in my heart. Aria stood waiting patiently for me near to Legolas' horse, a tall brown creature that stamped its hooves anxiously.
I held my father close as he embraced me, softly whispering words into my ears. "Be safe, Naitha. I trust you will be well protected on this journey, and that you will come back safe."
Nodding, I answered, "I will miss you, father. I will return as soon as I am able."
Elisen stared into my eyes, offering a smile even through the misty shroud that covered his face. "I love you, Naitha."
"And I you, father."
Swallowing hard, I turned to the four hobbits who stood awkwardly nearby. Smiling as best I could, I said, "My friends, I pray you will journey safely to your home. I hope that we may see each other again."
"We may yet," answered Sam, eyes lowered to the ground. "You be safe too, Lady Andariel."
"Don't forget you've promised to come to the Shire!" said Merry, eyeing me carefully as he bowed.
"I will hold to it, I swear." I embraced Merry, then Sam.
Frodo gazed up at me with bright eyes, though I saw how his heart ached with memories and lingering pain. "Do be careful, Andariel. I've heard a lot about Mirkwood, and they say it's quite dangerous."
I thought about the many dreams I had about the darkest and fiercest places in the world, dark woods with unnatural creatures roaming through them as they stalked their prey. Shaking my head, I answered, "I will have Legolas with me. It is his home, and I am quite sure he will protect me."
Turning to Pippin, I instantly embraced him. "You are so kind, my friend. I look forward to when we next shall meet."
He blushed, though kept himself quite composed as he looked at me. "You will have to let us know when the wedding will be. I don't care how long or how far away it is, we'll be there."
Chuckling through my impending tears, I answered, "Fear not, you will know when we do."
Standing straight, I gazed at the others who stood waiting, mirrors of patience and friendship. I realized that they all had quite a journey at their hands as well, and none knew where exactly the road would find us. It discouraged me to think that it would be yet a long time before we would see each other again.
Bidding my farewells to Gandalf and Gimli, I turned to Aragorn and Arwen who stood quietly to the side. Aragorn took me in his arms, holding me closely. I felt safe in his embrace, remembering how he had tried so hard to protect me during all our travels, and how he had gazed at me so in Rivendell.
"May your road be safe, Andariel," he said. "I pray you will face little danger, and that all will go well with the Lord of Mirkwood."
"As do I," I chuckled, staring into his worn face. "I will miss you, Aragorn."
Arwen smiled. "We look forward to seeing you again, Andariel. With any luck, it will be at your wedding." She softly touched my face, and I felt awed by her grace.
I stared at the king and queen thoughtfully, memorizing their faces and the kindness they had both shown to me. It seemed so long ago that I had met them both, and I hardly believed that over a year had passed since I had arrived in Rivendell. Even after all that had occurred, it amazed me that I had come from so small a place in the world to see so much and meet so many people. Aragorn had known me so long, and I treasured his friendship.
At last we had made our farewells to all, and made to our horses. Ithiel climbed upon her own horse, insisting that I would go with us to give a proper introduction from the Lady of the Wood. Our group was small, but we were prepared. I caught Legolas' eye for a moment, and he smiled reassuringly, clasping my hand tightly.
"Are you ready, a'maelamin?" he asked.
He too seemed distraught at separating from our friends, though he hid it well beneath his porcelain face; it was his eyes that betrayed him. My heart was torn with grief, though I knew that this day was meant to be. We all had to find out own places in the world. I smiled sadly, squeezing his hand. "Yes," I answered softly.
"Farewell, my friends," called Aragorn.
I stared ahead as we rode away from the White City, blinking back tears that I would not shed in the presence of the people I honored above all else.
The day was warm with bright summer air and mirth. White banners flew from every post in the city, declaring that the King was about to take his Queen. No cloud dared mar the sky on this beautiful day, thereby allowing the pure blue sky to be warmed by the golden rays of the sun.
All members of esteem were present in the Great Hall as the wedding commenced. The High Elves stood serenely beside Lord Elrond in front of the tier, dressed in the finest clothes made by their own. Elrond appeared focused yet moved with emotion, allowing himself a smile to grace his exterior.
Close by in the rows were the members of the Fellowship, as well as my father and myself. I had barely escaped the clutches of the overly excited servants without being forced into a series of restrictive garments. I had possessed the good sense to rise early and was greeted by Ithiel, who was genuinely pleased to see me. As was her way, she dressed me wisely and beautifully, considering my comfort and speaking easily with me. She had brought my garments from Lothlorien, and I had chosen to wear the blue silk gown that now hung a little closer to me, as I was well fed and not as scrawny. Ithiel had been kind enough to fix my hair with the lovely pearls from Galadriel.
Now I stood beside Legolas and my father, both of whom had been dressed quite regally for the occasion. Legolas wore a finely made silver tunic, a gift from Lord Celeborn, that shimmered like pure moonlight, his hair carefully braided away from his face. His eyes were fixed upon the Lord and Lady who stood hand in hand in front of so many people.
Aragorn stood proudly, a king in all his rights. The elf stone glimmered brightly on his brow, his hair gleaming beneath the golden crown, accentuated by the green and gold tunic he wore. Arwen glowed in an iridescent white gown, hair dark hair cascading down her back, illuminated by white jewels set among her tresses. Both people seemed majestic and worthy of their titles.
As the pair kissed, a cheer rose up among the people. A union was set between Gondor and Rivendell, Men and Elves, Human and Mortal. Still the only thing that mattered to them was their love, and I saw it in their eyes.
Elisen stared at the ring upon my hand, his eyes crinkled in thought. "Your future is secure then, Naitha," he said happily. "I will be able to rest well knowing you are provided for."
I smiled, clasping his hand. "Thank you, father."
Glancing at the king and queen as they danced, Elisen then turned to Legolas, his face somewhat weary. "I hope you will give my daughter as much joy as Aragorn has found, Legolas. Realize that I have given you the only treasure I possess."
Bowing his head, Legolas replied, "By my life, I swear she will know no pain or hardship, Elisen, as well as I may provide for her. She shall be as well protected as any member of my household, and I will not bring her shame or dishonor."
Through the crowds, I spotted a woman approaching. Her chestnut hair flowed around her slight shoulders, her clear gray eyes fixed upon me as she smiled warmly. She walked with an ease that would have made the very air envy her grace.
"Galain!"
"Andariel." Her gentle voice flowed through my mind as she embraced me tightly, the scent of clear water running beneath a summer sun wafting through my senses.
"Mae govanenn, nin mellon."
The she-elf cocked an eyebrow, smiling in approval. "Mae govanenn, nin mellon. I see all our ways have not been lost upon you. In fact, I believe you to have learned quite well, as you often said you would." Her eyes flicked between the members of our group.
"Father, this is Galain of the House of Elrond. She tended to me while I recovered in Rivendell. This is my father, Elisen of Arnad," I introduced, flushing slightly at seeing more of my old friends.
Elisen bowed deeply to the Lady as she lowered her head in return. "I thank you for caring for my daughter, Lady," he said. "Without your aid, I may never have known of her again."
"It was a pleasure to become acquainted with one of such great heart," she answered, meeting the man's eyes steadily. "She is of such a strength I have rarely seen in a mortal woman, otherwise she could not have endured what she has."
Turning to Legolas, Galain said, "All things occur for a reason. Legolas, it is good to see you again. I can hardly imagine what you have seen in your travels through darkness."
Legolas nodded, his features relaxed as he spoke. "I have seen much evil in the world, but all that matters now is I am reunited with those I care for and the world is at peace." He slid an arm around my waist, pulling me close as I was nestled at his side.
Raising an eyebrow, Galain smiled. "I am happy for you both. During these past seasons, I have realized how you belong together. How you do steal maidens' hearts, Legolas, mortal or immortal! Now I have heard you are taking her to Mirkwood?"
He smiled, glancing down at me. "She must be introduced to my father; I fear if I wait any longer another chance may not come again for some time. After all, so much has happened in this past year."
"Surely he will be patient," I suggested hopefully.
"He has been patient that I have been absent from his home for the past year. It is I who am impatient to introduce you," he answered, eyes watching me carefully, twinkling in the candlelight. "I am weary of abandoning you, Andariel. I desire to create a home of our own at last, that we may both rest and be free from worries."
I smiled, resting a hand upon his arm. "That is a dream I have held for quite awhile." I looked to watch Aragorn and Arwen as they moved swiftly throughout the room, heedless of any others present. The joy they now possessed was akin to what lay in my own heart, and I yearned to live quietly. All those I had met and loved lingered in the room, and for a moment I forgot that soon we would all go our own ways.
Turning to Galain, I asked, "Will you journey to the Gray Havens with the others?"
The calm of her face broke with my question, and she gazed at me in surprise for a few moments. Her bright eyes clouded a bit as she reflected upon her answer. "I will," she replied quietly. "When Lord Elrond takes his course, I will be at his side."
My face fell beyond my control. I felt my throat tighten with sorrow at losing yet another of my companions to this forsaken place I had heard all too much of. Sighing deeply, I nodded. "I expected as much."
Galain moved to me, gently touching my face as she held my gaze. "I am sorry, Andariel, for it grieves my heart to know that I must leave you. I cannot linger upon Middle Earth longer than the time I was given; I am weary, little one. Know that the time is yet to come, and I will remain with you awhile longer."
My eyes stung with repressed tears as I gazed upon her beautiful face. Shuddering slightly, I nodded once again. "I know," I whispered. "I only ask that you will be with me for the time remaining, and let me say good-bye to you before you leave."
"Of course."
The month went by all too quickly, and soon enough I was packed to leave for Mirkwood. The hobbits were also preparing to journey back to the Shire, and I felt a strange longing to go with them. Still, my path was set; I had yet to face the King of Mirkwood, gain his favor before I would be allowed to settle and rest. Frodo was anxious to see Bilbo again, and the others were quite prepared to journey to their own homes. Aragorn was to depart with the High Elves so they would depart to their countries and set their affairs in order. I was told that they were to journey into Rohan with the deceased king, Theoden, who had died bravely in the Last Battle. There was much activity and little time to enjoy the peace of the city.
Still, I had determined that I would spend time with all of my companions who had aided me so bravely. I spoke much with Pippin, assuring him that I would visit his home and keep an eye on him, to which he told me he would look forward to such a visit. Though I knew of his affections for me, he was kind and merely told me I would always be in his heart. It seemed a pity to disappoint such a brave young halfling, though he had known from the moment we met my heart was promised to someone else. Frodo seemed tired, though it did not dampen his spirits too much as Sam was constantly by his side. Merry spoke often with Gandalf, who entertained me with many stories of his own adventures until I could no longer keep my eyes open. Whenever possibly, I relaxed in the company of the Lady Galadriel, hoping her wisdom would somehow pass onto me. She too spoke much of what she had seen and heard in her many years, and it filled me with a wonder unlike any other. I felt much peace and happiness in this time among the great heroes of the age, and I often wished it would never end.
Sadly, all my joyous times seemed to end too quickly, and before I realized it we were all preparing to depart, some to the north, some to the south and west.
The day had come at last, and I stood silently amidst all those whom I loved. Summer was warm and bright all around us, and I felt my spirit battle the joy it stood for against the bitter sorrow that lay in my heart. Aria stood waiting patiently for me near to Legolas' horse, a tall brown creature that stamped its hooves anxiously.
I held my father close as he embraced me, softly whispering words into my ears. "Be safe, Naitha. I trust you will be well protected on this journey, and that you will come back safe."
Nodding, I answered, "I will miss you, father. I will return as soon as I am able."
Elisen stared into my eyes, offering a smile even through the misty shroud that covered his face. "I love you, Naitha."
"And I you, father."
Swallowing hard, I turned to the four hobbits who stood awkwardly nearby. Smiling as best I could, I said, "My friends, I pray you will journey safely to your home. I hope that we may see each other again."
"We may yet," answered Sam, eyes lowered to the ground. "You be safe too, Lady Andariel."
"Don't forget you've promised to come to the Shire!" said Merry, eyeing me carefully as he bowed.
"I will hold to it, I swear." I embraced Merry, then Sam.
Frodo gazed up at me with bright eyes, though I saw how his heart ached with memories and lingering pain. "Do be careful, Andariel. I've heard a lot about Mirkwood, and they say it's quite dangerous."
I thought about the many dreams I had about the darkest and fiercest places in the world, dark woods with unnatural creatures roaming through them as they stalked their prey. Shaking my head, I answered, "I will have Legolas with me. It is his home, and I am quite sure he will protect me."
Turning to Pippin, I instantly embraced him. "You are so kind, my friend. I look forward to when we next shall meet."
He blushed, though kept himself quite composed as he looked at me. "You will have to let us know when the wedding will be. I don't care how long or how far away it is, we'll be there."
Chuckling through my impending tears, I answered, "Fear not, you will know when we do."
Standing straight, I gazed at the others who stood waiting, mirrors of patience and friendship. I realized that they all had quite a journey at their hands as well, and none knew where exactly the road would find us. It discouraged me to think that it would be yet a long time before we would see each other again.
Bidding my farewells to Gandalf and Gimli, I turned to Aragorn and Arwen who stood quietly to the side. Aragorn took me in his arms, holding me closely. I felt safe in his embrace, remembering how he had tried so hard to protect me during all our travels, and how he had gazed at me so in Rivendell.
"May your road be safe, Andariel," he said. "I pray you will face little danger, and that all will go well with the Lord of Mirkwood."
"As do I," I chuckled, staring into his worn face. "I will miss you, Aragorn."
Arwen smiled. "We look forward to seeing you again, Andariel. With any luck, it will be at your wedding." She softly touched my face, and I felt awed by her grace.
I stared at the king and queen thoughtfully, memorizing their faces and the kindness they had both shown to me. It seemed so long ago that I had met them both, and I hardly believed that over a year had passed since I had arrived in Rivendell. Even after all that had occurred, it amazed me that I had come from so small a place in the world to see so much and meet so many people. Aragorn had known me so long, and I treasured his friendship.
At last we had made our farewells to all, and made to our horses. Ithiel climbed upon her own horse, insisting that I would go with us to give a proper introduction from the Lady of the Wood. Our group was small, but we were prepared. I caught Legolas' eye for a moment, and he smiled reassuringly, clasping my hand tightly.
"Are you ready, a'maelamin?" he asked.
He too seemed distraught at separating from our friends, though he hid it well beneath his porcelain face; it was his eyes that betrayed him. My heart was torn with grief, though I knew that this day was meant to be. We all had to find out own places in the world. I smiled sadly, squeezing his hand. "Yes," I answered softly.
"Farewell, my friends," called Aragorn.
I stared ahead as we rode away from the White City, blinking back tears that I would not shed in the presence of the people I honored above all else.