Disclaimer: For the millionth time, I do not own LOTR!!! Necessary yet
painful to speak.
I sat alone in the green warmth of the summer's arms among bright flowers as the sun crept lower behind the trees and mountains. Dark wisps of clouds marred the rosy hues of pink, red and gold as they faded into cerulean, small stars beginning to appear above. A calm breeze flowed through the cooling air, marking an end to yet another hot day in Mirkwood. The soft lapping of water on the shores of the pond mixed with the easy sounds of the rising night creatures, soothing in lieu of frightening. After nearly two weeks of dwelling in the great forest, I had found a liking for the hidden places of the realm, such as the dell that Ithiel and I had discovered fortuitously. I basked in the growing evening, my sleeveless dress light and carefree about my body.
Soft footsteps upon the grass interrupted the secluded peace. Sitting up, I looked around to see King Thranduil approaching quietly, arms behind his back. Quickly getting to my feet, I promptly curtseyed low to him. "Good evening, my Lord." We had spoken little since the feast, and I wondered why he came now.
"Please rise, Lady Andariel."
As I straightened, I found the clear eyes of the Elf King gazing at me steadily, though there was not contempt there, merely uncertainty. For several long moments we were silent, and I resisted the urge to shift in discomfort. I had found the voice within my heart to speak out, and I would not let that voice die.
At last the Elf spoke. "This is one of the most beautiful spots in Mirkwood. My wife came here often to listen to the voice of the woods, or speak with the setting sun. Much time has passed since she walked here. My son once dwelt here in seclusion, running across the fields when he had lessons to attend to. I could hardly keep him within the palace long enough for him to learn proper history."
I listened silently as the King spoke easily, musing on days long past. I tried to imagine such a time that had existed thousands of years ago, times that lingered only in history.
Eyes falling upon me, he said, "Now it seems it has been claimed yet again by another astute creature yearning for clarity. How does my realm suit you?"
Blinking rapidly, I took a deep breath. "It is a wondrous place, my Lord. At first I wondered how any soul could venture into such horrid depths of a forest that is filled with the most terrifying creatures. Now upon seeing your city I marvel at how any could not live here."
Nodding slightly in approval, Thranduil looked once up into the blurring colors of the sunset. "Indeed, Mirkwood has become a shadow of its former self, yet all is not darkness, as you can plainly see here. There are many spots of wonder within the forest; this is only a small part of the whole."
Once again falling silent, the two of us looked away uncomfortably, seeking some other form of diversion.
Clearing his throat, Thranduil looked to me once more. "Let us speak frankly, Andariel," he said at last, eyeing me steadily. "It is a great surprise to me to learn all my son has endured, and that he has brought with him a mortal to whom he has given his heart. Exactly how long has this been going on?"
Taking a deep breath, I steadied myself to speak clearly. "Since we first met one year ago, my Lord. I did not realize Legolas was a prince until we were scouting the lands for orcs and his kinsmen spoke of it. He has asked them not to tell me."
The king raised an eyebrow. "So you were unaware of his status at first. Are you uninterested in holding a position in the court?"
I frowned. It seemed to me that this was a trick question, and much depended upon my answer. How could I answer? After taking several moments to contemplate, I said carefully, "I have been content with the simplicities of life, such as merely dwelling in a beautiful dell like this. Greed does not run in my blood, nor do I desire to be powerful. If such a position were to come to me, I would embrace it and accept my responsibilities, though I am a simple person."
Thranduil seemed intrigued by my answer. Taking a step closer, he spoke evenly. "And if I were to offer you a lofty position in my court in exchange for your sacrifice of my son?"
Holding my head high in an attempt not to speak too quickly, I replied, "Then I would thank you for your offer and tell you as graciously as possible that there is nothing you could offer me to abandon your son as long as he will have me."
A smile began to shine in the Elf's blue eyes, twinkling in the early night. He appeared quite sly to me. "So my son has said as well. I offered him much more, of course, since he already holds his birthright. I see that you hold no greed towards taking what you can from him; this pleases me greatly." He fell quiet for a few moments, his gaze permeating the falling darkness. "You carried his child. Were you aware of this when you departed Rivendell?"
"No," I answered quickly, yet softly. "I have never carried a child before and did not know to read the signs. I believed myself to be merely stricken with illness. Had I known, it would have been different."
Sadness filled the king's eyes for a moment. "My son has never had any children before. I realize how difficult this was on him and I can imagine how it was for you as well. It is always a great sorrow when any child is lost. I now find grief in losing a grandchild of mine before it knew life. Elf children have many gifts from birth; they have great potential when guided correctly. That is not to say mortals are less gifted. If what you say is true of your people, then a union between yourself and an elf would surely produce a highly gifted child, one who would surely have great things in store." A bittersweet smile wavered across the king's lips. "I have often looked forward to having young ones running through the palace again; I imagined my son to be as myself, becoming a wise father and ruler."
Suddenly it was clear to me how this affected the king, and a stab of regret pierced my heart at having spoken so easily and bitterly. Still, it was also necessary for him to understand not to be so quick to judge.
Summoning my courage, I said, "My Lord, my heart grieves for the child, as well as the fact that you had to find out so late. I am sorry for anything I have done to cause your family sorrow, for it was not my intention. He came to me when I was lost and alone. It is because of the good nature of his heart that has saved me from a fate worse than death. We have given our hearts to one another freely, my Lord, and we have the blessings of the other Elf Lords, though I understand that you are his father."
Thranduil moved slightly closer, his hair pale in the shadows, shining like liquid moonlight as the sun's last rays departed the skies. "You speak truthfully, Lady Andariel; I would surely feel any deception you would hold. I have been unfairly harsh with you. I should not hold you accountable for the frailties of your race, nor remind you of the short life span you hold."
Sighing lightly, I shrugged. "I have accepted my short time in this world. My only wish is to spend it with someone who cares for me as much as I care for him."
A gentle smile crossed his face as he nodded. His eyes narrowed thoughtfully as he said, "I am curious, Andariel. How is it you came to be taken by orcs?"
My chest tightened and my breath caught in my throat for a moment as a flash of pain ran through my body, memories running through my mind. "We were scouting and were attacked at dawn," I said quietly, fighting to keep the tremble out of my voice. "I--I got separated from the others when Legolas ordered me to ride to Lothlorien, for there were too many of the creatures about. I took to my horse and was shot by an arrow. Shortly thereafter three orcs found me and took me." I bit my lip, straining so hard against the urge to scream my throat burned.
Thranduil was not looking at me; instead, he was watching the slow rise of the stars in the sky, a breeze flowing through the many trees and whispering gently in the air. "Legolas told you to go," he repeated.
"Yes, he did not want me hurt again after a previous encounter with orcs," I explained, ducking my head.
After several more moments of silence, Thranduil asked, "How long were you with them?"
The slow progression of questions was irritating and painful, though I realized I had to accept what had happened to me. "Fifteen days," I answered, barely above a whisper.
Closing his eyes, Thranduil touched my face. I started, uncertain as to what he was doing. I heard his voice say, "You need not speak of what happened. Show them to me."
My heart thundered in my chest now, unable to make sense of the king's actions. At last, I heaved a great breath, and shut my eyes as well. Out of the darkness of my mind I felt a resurgence of memories building, memories I had stored away since my father had healed my mind. Shuddering in the night air, I began to remember. Images came of black faces towering over me, leering at me and snarling obscene words that made my blood boil, roughly hauled by their intimidating bodies through the wilderness and then staked down each night. I heard my own screams as the tortures began, so quickly yet lingering in my mind. Once again the heat of the pokers and knives flushed my skin, the terror of my flesh being stripped away. I was trapped, dead, and unable to find any semblance of hope as they drug me each day. Then came the image of the dark figure of Aragorn riding through the chaos of the camp as the orcs were slaughtered, signaling my release from their captivity.
Pulling away, I gasped, eyes flying open. It surprised me to find my face damp with sweat, and I was breathing heavily. Looking at the king, I found sweat beading his forehead as well, his eyes still closed. I choked back a sob at having such a vivid remembrance of the worst part of my life.
Taking a deep breath, Thranduil opened his eyes. Suddenly they were hollow and meek, even sorrowful, containing an understanding that I had never seen. He slowly laid his hands upon my face, a soothing peace flowing from his fingertips. "Forgive me, Andariel," he said softly. "I did not see. I understand now why you hold such a gratitude to my son and he to you. I have never spoken with any who have been under such duress, and now I see why you will not leave one another's side."
I grasped desperately for the peace he gave, calming myself to rid the memories once more. Tears pricked at my eyes, though I refused to allow them to fall. I had spent far too much time mourning for time lost.
The Elf King bowed his head, silent for several moments. At last he said, "Come, let us return to the palace. I wish to speak with both of you."
After such a length conversation with the king, I knew not what was left to say. I sat quietly in the chair in his study, hands folded over my lap. My heart ached with the memories I had held onto, brought to light after so long. Still, now the king realized what much of my life had been now, as well as part of why Legolas and I remained together.
I glanced nervously at Legolas as he entered the room, his eyes bright and clear in the night's hour. He caught my gaze and smiled briefly as he fell into the seat beside me. "You wished to see me, father?"
"Yes," Thanduil said, leaning forward. "Now that you both are present, I wish to discuss the matter that I have dwelt upon for the past many days." He clasped his hands in front of him, face void of any overpowering emotion as he looked from one to the other. "I have spoken with each of you in turn, piecing together the events of the past seasons. Upon hearing the entire story now, it seems my judgment of many things has been hasty and preconceived. I find myself in a difficult place as to where to assign any blame for things already occurred, for there is much on all sides. Still, blame is not why I wish to speak with you. The blame I see is on my side."
Legolas stiffened, brow furrowing slightly. "Father, what is it you wish to speak of?"
"I have spent much of my life wanting what is best for my son in being both a father and a king. It seems difficult to think there are far too many things in life that I cannot control, yet that is not always an evil thing." Thranduil sighed deeply, leaning back in his chair.
My heart beat quietly in my chest, anxiously awaiting the king's words. I dared not think what lay in his mind.
Speaking again, the king said, "Legolas, you have become a wise man and accomplished much in your time. I have trusted you countless times and have never been disappointed."
Bowing his head, Legolas said, "Thank you father, I have strove to bring you honor in my tasks."
"So you have, my son. Your deeds in the battle against the Dark Lord are exceptional to hear of, and I am filled with pride that you are a fine warrior at heart." The King's eyes narrowed a bit as he sighed once again, studying us carefully. "You have come into your own, and, as a father, I hesitate acknowledging it. I cannot order you how to live anymore. For the first time in your life, I have seen love shining in your every movement, my son."
Legolas glanced at me as he said evenly, "I have never felt such for any other. Andariel has ignited my heart the way no other ever has."
"There has been much turmoil in the past year that you both have endured. I see now how harsh I have been, and mistakenly so. Perhaps if I had been told straightly what all had occurred, things might have progressed differently at your arrival."
For a moment there was an embarrassed silence. I realized he was speaking more to his son, though I felt responsible as well.
"Can you assure me there will be no more secrets withheld?" Thanduil asked.
"Of course, father. It has never been my desire to keep anything from you."
Holding up a hand, Thranduil said, "I ask this of both of you."
"Certainly, my Lord," I said quietly, nervously toying with the fabric of my gown now.
"And that there are no others to dwell in your hearts?"
Legolas and I looked at one another, raising our eyebrows. I did not think the idea had even occurred to either of us. There could be no one else, ever. "No," we answered simultaneously.
Breathing deeply, Thranduil nodded sharply. At last he said, "Then I grant you my blessing to marry."
My mouth went dry as I stared at the elf in shock. For several moments I could not feel any part of my body; I had never expected to hear approval from the stern father. Certainly his gentle words to me this evening had been a change, but I did not expect this.
"Thank you, father!" Legolas said, a wide smile beaming from his face as he turned to me, squeezing my hand.
Blinking several times to clear the haze around me, I said, "Yes, th- thank you, my Lord. I assure you, I will take care of your son."
"I know you will, Andariel." Thranduil offered a weary smile. Sighing, he added, "So it seems my son is to take a wife at last. Let us speak more tomorrow. There is much planning to be done."
Taking hold of my hand, Legolas raised me to my feet, his eyes betraying his cool exterior. "Of course, father. We look forward to the morning."
I still felt numb by the king's words, yet I managed to curtsey as we exited the room. Only Legolas' hands picking me up seemed to permeate the distance I felt. Shrieking as he lifted me up, I broke into a wide smile, laughing out loud.
Grinning up at me, Legolas said, "I do not know what changed my father's mind, but I will not question it, for I am now the happiest elf alive."
Gripping his shoulders, I smiled, heaving a long withheld breath. "I never truly believed he would approve! I feel as if I am living in a dream."
Slowly pulling me down and into his arms, Legolas kissed my forehead, holding me close. "As do I, melamin. You are the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to me, and I will not forget that." He traced my cheek with the back of his hand, eyes capturing mine and making my knees go weak. "You hold my heart, Andariel, and I hold yours. Let us be thankful that after so much turmoil we may be allowed some happiness."
I stood taller and placed my hands on his face, bringing us closer until we were merely inches apart, his breath warm and ragged on my face. "I love you, Legolas. I promised your father I would not abandon you nor would I fail in taking care of you."
Smiling, he pressed his lips to mine, sealing our fate. I lost myself in the warmth of his kiss, at peace finally after so long.
I sat alone in the green warmth of the summer's arms among bright flowers as the sun crept lower behind the trees and mountains. Dark wisps of clouds marred the rosy hues of pink, red and gold as they faded into cerulean, small stars beginning to appear above. A calm breeze flowed through the cooling air, marking an end to yet another hot day in Mirkwood. The soft lapping of water on the shores of the pond mixed with the easy sounds of the rising night creatures, soothing in lieu of frightening. After nearly two weeks of dwelling in the great forest, I had found a liking for the hidden places of the realm, such as the dell that Ithiel and I had discovered fortuitously. I basked in the growing evening, my sleeveless dress light and carefree about my body.
Soft footsteps upon the grass interrupted the secluded peace. Sitting up, I looked around to see King Thranduil approaching quietly, arms behind his back. Quickly getting to my feet, I promptly curtseyed low to him. "Good evening, my Lord." We had spoken little since the feast, and I wondered why he came now.
"Please rise, Lady Andariel."
As I straightened, I found the clear eyes of the Elf King gazing at me steadily, though there was not contempt there, merely uncertainty. For several long moments we were silent, and I resisted the urge to shift in discomfort. I had found the voice within my heart to speak out, and I would not let that voice die.
At last the Elf spoke. "This is one of the most beautiful spots in Mirkwood. My wife came here often to listen to the voice of the woods, or speak with the setting sun. Much time has passed since she walked here. My son once dwelt here in seclusion, running across the fields when he had lessons to attend to. I could hardly keep him within the palace long enough for him to learn proper history."
I listened silently as the King spoke easily, musing on days long past. I tried to imagine such a time that had existed thousands of years ago, times that lingered only in history.
Eyes falling upon me, he said, "Now it seems it has been claimed yet again by another astute creature yearning for clarity. How does my realm suit you?"
Blinking rapidly, I took a deep breath. "It is a wondrous place, my Lord. At first I wondered how any soul could venture into such horrid depths of a forest that is filled with the most terrifying creatures. Now upon seeing your city I marvel at how any could not live here."
Nodding slightly in approval, Thranduil looked once up into the blurring colors of the sunset. "Indeed, Mirkwood has become a shadow of its former self, yet all is not darkness, as you can plainly see here. There are many spots of wonder within the forest; this is only a small part of the whole."
Once again falling silent, the two of us looked away uncomfortably, seeking some other form of diversion.
Clearing his throat, Thranduil looked to me once more. "Let us speak frankly, Andariel," he said at last, eyeing me steadily. "It is a great surprise to me to learn all my son has endured, and that he has brought with him a mortal to whom he has given his heart. Exactly how long has this been going on?"
Taking a deep breath, I steadied myself to speak clearly. "Since we first met one year ago, my Lord. I did not realize Legolas was a prince until we were scouting the lands for orcs and his kinsmen spoke of it. He has asked them not to tell me."
The king raised an eyebrow. "So you were unaware of his status at first. Are you uninterested in holding a position in the court?"
I frowned. It seemed to me that this was a trick question, and much depended upon my answer. How could I answer? After taking several moments to contemplate, I said carefully, "I have been content with the simplicities of life, such as merely dwelling in a beautiful dell like this. Greed does not run in my blood, nor do I desire to be powerful. If such a position were to come to me, I would embrace it and accept my responsibilities, though I am a simple person."
Thranduil seemed intrigued by my answer. Taking a step closer, he spoke evenly. "And if I were to offer you a lofty position in my court in exchange for your sacrifice of my son?"
Holding my head high in an attempt not to speak too quickly, I replied, "Then I would thank you for your offer and tell you as graciously as possible that there is nothing you could offer me to abandon your son as long as he will have me."
A smile began to shine in the Elf's blue eyes, twinkling in the early night. He appeared quite sly to me. "So my son has said as well. I offered him much more, of course, since he already holds his birthright. I see that you hold no greed towards taking what you can from him; this pleases me greatly." He fell quiet for a few moments, his gaze permeating the falling darkness. "You carried his child. Were you aware of this when you departed Rivendell?"
"No," I answered quickly, yet softly. "I have never carried a child before and did not know to read the signs. I believed myself to be merely stricken with illness. Had I known, it would have been different."
Sadness filled the king's eyes for a moment. "My son has never had any children before. I realize how difficult this was on him and I can imagine how it was for you as well. It is always a great sorrow when any child is lost. I now find grief in losing a grandchild of mine before it knew life. Elf children have many gifts from birth; they have great potential when guided correctly. That is not to say mortals are less gifted. If what you say is true of your people, then a union between yourself and an elf would surely produce a highly gifted child, one who would surely have great things in store." A bittersweet smile wavered across the king's lips. "I have often looked forward to having young ones running through the palace again; I imagined my son to be as myself, becoming a wise father and ruler."
Suddenly it was clear to me how this affected the king, and a stab of regret pierced my heart at having spoken so easily and bitterly. Still, it was also necessary for him to understand not to be so quick to judge.
Summoning my courage, I said, "My Lord, my heart grieves for the child, as well as the fact that you had to find out so late. I am sorry for anything I have done to cause your family sorrow, for it was not my intention. He came to me when I was lost and alone. It is because of the good nature of his heart that has saved me from a fate worse than death. We have given our hearts to one another freely, my Lord, and we have the blessings of the other Elf Lords, though I understand that you are his father."
Thranduil moved slightly closer, his hair pale in the shadows, shining like liquid moonlight as the sun's last rays departed the skies. "You speak truthfully, Lady Andariel; I would surely feel any deception you would hold. I have been unfairly harsh with you. I should not hold you accountable for the frailties of your race, nor remind you of the short life span you hold."
Sighing lightly, I shrugged. "I have accepted my short time in this world. My only wish is to spend it with someone who cares for me as much as I care for him."
A gentle smile crossed his face as he nodded. His eyes narrowed thoughtfully as he said, "I am curious, Andariel. How is it you came to be taken by orcs?"
My chest tightened and my breath caught in my throat for a moment as a flash of pain ran through my body, memories running through my mind. "We were scouting and were attacked at dawn," I said quietly, fighting to keep the tremble out of my voice. "I--I got separated from the others when Legolas ordered me to ride to Lothlorien, for there were too many of the creatures about. I took to my horse and was shot by an arrow. Shortly thereafter three orcs found me and took me." I bit my lip, straining so hard against the urge to scream my throat burned.
Thranduil was not looking at me; instead, he was watching the slow rise of the stars in the sky, a breeze flowing through the many trees and whispering gently in the air. "Legolas told you to go," he repeated.
"Yes, he did not want me hurt again after a previous encounter with orcs," I explained, ducking my head.
After several more moments of silence, Thranduil asked, "How long were you with them?"
The slow progression of questions was irritating and painful, though I realized I had to accept what had happened to me. "Fifteen days," I answered, barely above a whisper.
Closing his eyes, Thranduil touched my face. I started, uncertain as to what he was doing. I heard his voice say, "You need not speak of what happened. Show them to me."
My heart thundered in my chest now, unable to make sense of the king's actions. At last, I heaved a great breath, and shut my eyes as well. Out of the darkness of my mind I felt a resurgence of memories building, memories I had stored away since my father had healed my mind. Shuddering in the night air, I began to remember. Images came of black faces towering over me, leering at me and snarling obscene words that made my blood boil, roughly hauled by their intimidating bodies through the wilderness and then staked down each night. I heard my own screams as the tortures began, so quickly yet lingering in my mind. Once again the heat of the pokers and knives flushed my skin, the terror of my flesh being stripped away. I was trapped, dead, and unable to find any semblance of hope as they drug me each day. Then came the image of the dark figure of Aragorn riding through the chaos of the camp as the orcs were slaughtered, signaling my release from their captivity.
Pulling away, I gasped, eyes flying open. It surprised me to find my face damp with sweat, and I was breathing heavily. Looking at the king, I found sweat beading his forehead as well, his eyes still closed. I choked back a sob at having such a vivid remembrance of the worst part of my life.
Taking a deep breath, Thranduil opened his eyes. Suddenly they were hollow and meek, even sorrowful, containing an understanding that I had never seen. He slowly laid his hands upon my face, a soothing peace flowing from his fingertips. "Forgive me, Andariel," he said softly. "I did not see. I understand now why you hold such a gratitude to my son and he to you. I have never spoken with any who have been under such duress, and now I see why you will not leave one another's side."
I grasped desperately for the peace he gave, calming myself to rid the memories once more. Tears pricked at my eyes, though I refused to allow them to fall. I had spent far too much time mourning for time lost.
The Elf King bowed his head, silent for several moments. At last he said, "Come, let us return to the palace. I wish to speak with both of you."
After such a length conversation with the king, I knew not what was left to say. I sat quietly in the chair in his study, hands folded over my lap. My heart ached with the memories I had held onto, brought to light after so long. Still, now the king realized what much of my life had been now, as well as part of why Legolas and I remained together.
I glanced nervously at Legolas as he entered the room, his eyes bright and clear in the night's hour. He caught my gaze and smiled briefly as he fell into the seat beside me. "You wished to see me, father?"
"Yes," Thanduil said, leaning forward. "Now that you both are present, I wish to discuss the matter that I have dwelt upon for the past many days." He clasped his hands in front of him, face void of any overpowering emotion as he looked from one to the other. "I have spoken with each of you in turn, piecing together the events of the past seasons. Upon hearing the entire story now, it seems my judgment of many things has been hasty and preconceived. I find myself in a difficult place as to where to assign any blame for things already occurred, for there is much on all sides. Still, blame is not why I wish to speak with you. The blame I see is on my side."
Legolas stiffened, brow furrowing slightly. "Father, what is it you wish to speak of?"
"I have spent much of my life wanting what is best for my son in being both a father and a king. It seems difficult to think there are far too many things in life that I cannot control, yet that is not always an evil thing." Thranduil sighed deeply, leaning back in his chair.
My heart beat quietly in my chest, anxiously awaiting the king's words. I dared not think what lay in his mind.
Speaking again, the king said, "Legolas, you have become a wise man and accomplished much in your time. I have trusted you countless times and have never been disappointed."
Bowing his head, Legolas said, "Thank you father, I have strove to bring you honor in my tasks."
"So you have, my son. Your deeds in the battle against the Dark Lord are exceptional to hear of, and I am filled with pride that you are a fine warrior at heart." The King's eyes narrowed a bit as he sighed once again, studying us carefully. "You have come into your own, and, as a father, I hesitate acknowledging it. I cannot order you how to live anymore. For the first time in your life, I have seen love shining in your every movement, my son."
Legolas glanced at me as he said evenly, "I have never felt such for any other. Andariel has ignited my heart the way no other ever has."
"There has been much turmoil in the past year that you both have endured. I see now how harsh I have been, and mistakenly so. Perhaps if I had been told straightly what all had occurred, things might have progressed differently at your arrival."
For a moment there was an embarrassed silence. I realized he was speaking more to his son, though I felt responsible as well.
"Can you assure me there will be no more secrets withheld?" Thanduil asked.
"Of course, father. It has never been my desire to keep anything from you."
Holding up a hand, Thranduil said, "I ask this of both of you."
"Certainly, my Lord," I said quietly, nervously toying with the fabric of my gown now.
"And that there are no others to dwell in your hearts?"
Legolas and I looked at one another, raising our eyebrows. I did not think the idea had even occurred to either of us. There could be no one else, ever. "No," we answered simultaneously.
Breathing deeply, Thranduil nodded sharply. At last he said, "Then I grant you my blessing to marry."
My mouth went dry as I stared at the elf in shock. For several moments I could not feel any part of my body; I had never expected to hear approval from the stern father. Certainly his gentle words to me this evening had been a change, but I did not expect this.
"Thank you, father!" Legolas said, a wide smile beaming from his face as he turned to me, squeezing my hand.
Blinking several times to clear the haze around me, I said, "Yes, th- thank you, my Lord. I assure you, I will take care of your son."
"I know you will, Andariel." Thranduil offered a weary smile. Sighing, he added, "So it seems my son is to take a wife at last. Let us speak more tomorrow. There is much planning to be done."
Taking hold of my hand, Legolas raised me to my feet, his eyes betraying his cool exterior. "Of course, father. We look forward to the morning."
I still felt numb by the king's words, yet I managed to curtsey as we exited the room. Only Legolas' hands picking me up seemed to permeate the distance I felt. Shrieking as he lifted me up, I broke into a wide smile, laughing out loud.
Grinning up at me, Legolas said, "I do not know what changed my father's mind, but I will not question it, for I am now the happiest elf alive."
Gripping his shoulders, I smiled, heaving a long withheld breath. "I never truly believed he would approve! I feel as if I am living in a dream."
Slowly pulling me down and into his arms, Legolas kissed my forehead, holding me close. "As do I, melamin. You are the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to me, and I will not forget that." He traced my cheek with the back of his hand, eyes capturing mine and making my knees go weak. "You hold my heart, Andariel, and I hold yours. Let us be thankful that after so much turmoil we may be allowed some happiness."
I stood taller and placed my hands on his face, bringing us closer until we were merely inches apart, his breath warm and ragged on my face. "I love you, Legolas. I promised your father I would not abandon you nor would I fail in taking care of you."
Smiling, he pressed his lips to mine, sealing our fate. I lost myself in the warmth of his kiss, at peace finally after so long.