Author's Notes: This is my first LOTR fanfiction that I've ever put up
anywhere and it has yet to be proofread so I would really appreciate any
feedback. but as it is my first story, please be kind. Like this story, I
have a lot of others that are work in progress so bear with me. The more
reviews and comments I get, the more I can write and the better the stories
will be. Also, some of the Elvish may be incorrect so I'd appreciate any
help there too. This story is a bit of a mix between book and movie-verse
so there may be a few inconsistencies as well. None of these characters
save for Laurelen, Annuviel, and maybe others I make up are obviously not
mine. I am not profiting from this story so don't sue me!
"//..//" denotes Elvish dialogue
Italics denote dream sequences or flashbacks (also Elvish words)
Synopsis: As the Fellowship of the Ring travels on their quest, none know that Legolas carries with him a grievous heart due to centuries of loneliness and sorrow that nearly killed him long ago. But, in the darkness of a forest overshadowed by Sauron's minions, they meet a light that guides them all to something that shall change their lives and their stories forever. Will it be enough to lift Legolas' heart or only serve to add to its heavy weight?
WHAT STRENGTH IS IN OUR HEARTS By Terra Forever
CHAPTER FOUR: Secrets of the Past
//So cold. How can I feel the cold? I'm not supposed to be able to feel cold,// thought Legolas. Yet his senses made him feel as if he was frozen in a block of ice. He finally opened his eyes but there was nothing to see. He could not see the hand that touched his face or the body that belonged to him when he moved to look down. He took a step but he was not sure where he was going or what he was doing. He moved to take another when he felt a stabbing pain in his chest, bringing him to his knees. "Agh! //Am I dead? I saw Annuviel! Was that really her? Perhaps this is death. but if so where is she? Why is it that we are still separated? Oh Eru, help me!//" Legolas took a breath but it only elicited more pain. "Ngh. Annuviel!" He could feel his eyes stinging with tears as they ran down his cheeks.
"Legolas!"
"Annuviel?" Legolas looked up to see himself in Mirkwood looking much like it was centuries ago. "Lau." Ahead of him was a beautiful Elf maiden smelling some flowers they both favored so much. "Annuviel!" Then there was the sound of a menacing growl. He started to run to her but the pain in his chest brought him back to the ground. "Laauuu!" He could only watch as she was murdered before his very eyes. "Annuviel!" He was sobbing now on the ground crying as hard as he did those many years ago. Then he heard another sound. "Naneth!" He turned in the opposite direction to see his mother breathe her last. "Naneth!" All around him now were scenes of death and destruction. Legolas could not escape the visions and soon he was lying on the ground, unable to move. Amidst the cries of pain and the sounds of fighting, he could hear whispers that were growing louder. Whispers in the Dark tongue of Sauron, stealing his life away as they threw him deeper into despair. The greater his misery, the easier he will be willing to slip away from life.
"Legolas!"
//It cannot be her//, he thought. //Lau. Enough.//
"Legolas! //Lasto beth nin, tolo dan na ngalad.//" A final tear slipped from Legolas' eyes when suddenly he was blinded by a bright light and he raised his hand to reach out to the voice he missed so much.
~~~~~~ Legolas let out a sharp gasp and opened his eyes only to see darkness. A fleeting moment of panic struck him and he feared that his nightmare was real; he had fallen to darkness; he truly had failed them all. However, the soft glow of the moonlight streaming in through a window comforted him and suddenly a slight glow on his side gave him warmth. And finally he realized that the hand he had raised in his dreams was actually grasping something; soft hands from long ago. Legolas turned his head slowly and his blue eyes met with dark irises. "Annuviel," he whispered, afraid that it wasn't true. He let go of her hand and moved to touch her face and she pressed his trembling hand against her cheek. His lower lip trembled at the touch of her still fair skin, soft and warm, and real. "//It is really you.//"
The Elf nodded with a small smile. "Na," she whispered. "It is I, Legolas..." A tear fell from her eye and he moved his hand to wipe it away.
"//You called me back.//" Annuviel nodded. "//Your gift has grown. How did you know?//"
"//How can I not when our hearts have been bound for so long even our absence.//" She pressed her hand over Legolas' chest. "//I could feel you slipping away from me and closer to the darkness. I could lose you...//" She touched his face, brushing her fingers against his warming skin. "I pray thee, rest..."
"But you died... sut? Mankoi? Annuviel I beseech you"
The sad, pleading blue eyes struck Annuviel in her heart and she set his hand down on the bed. "All shall be answered on the morrow when next you wake. Your body is still weak, Legolas. You need much rest if you should like to continue your journey. Quel kaima. You are safe now, Legolas."
Hearing her say his name again was a simple comfort and enough to lull the prince to sleep. It had been long since he had heard her soft, beautiful voice beyond that of his memories and dreams. "Laurelén ...is she..."
Annuviel softly brushed her lips against her beloved's. "Na... she is." For the first time in nearly a millennium, Legolas slept peacefully.
~~~~ The next morning, Aragorn and Gandalf were the first to wake and they immediately asked of Legolas' condition. Annuviel told them that he had woken during the night and should wake up again that day. He was not one to remain bed lain. "How do you know this lady?" asked Aragorn.
Annuviel smiled. "I can imagine that none of you are ones to stay in bed, Aragorn. Otherwise how would you move on in your quest?"
"//Naneth//" Laurelén called, "should I make breakfast or should I wait until all have awoken?"
"I should think that the rest will wake soon enough so prepare some for all of us, including Legolas," said Annuviel, smiling.
Laurelén studied her mother and realized that for the first time in the years she had known her, her mother's smile was truly bright and her voice light and airy. For the first time her eyes had brightened and Laurelén knew it was the Prince's doing. Neither Aragorn nor Gandalf truly noticed but they knew that their hostess had a lighter heart than when they first arrived.
Soon, as Annuviel predicted, the rest of the Company arose and all were greeted by delicious food. "You are a good cook, Laurelén," Frodo complimented Laurelén and she gave a slight blush. "I have rarely had food this delicious." The others agreed and Laurelén could feel her cheeks burn, obvious despite her dark complexion. "How does Legolas fair?"
All turned to Annuviel. "He is improving, Master Baggins. I am glad to say that he had the will to live after all."
"That Elf is more stubborn and more foolish than anyone else I know," muttered Gimli, fondly. "I would expect nothing less from the Prince of Mirkwood."
"Of course you shouldn't, otherwise you'd be more foolish than I imagined Dwarves to be," came a voice and all turned to see Legolas leaning against the doorframe. He was still slightly pale and weak, but there was more color to his face and his lips were turned up in a comforting smile.
"Legolas," they all chorused in relief. Annuviel walked to him, having him put his weight on her. "Legolas, you should be in bed," she chided him. "I should have known you would do something like this, foolish Elf. Master Gimli was right to call you so. A thousand years and you've grown only to be even more stubborn."
"And you no less," muttered Legolas, "acting more of a mother to me than to your own child."
"Yes, well she needs less mothering than you." Though that thought reminded Legolas of the mother he lost long ago, it did nothing to darken his mood. It was all a part of their usual play that he missed so much.
"You know each other?" Pippin asked looking at the two. There was definitely something unusual here, he thought. They just met and already they seemed to know each other so well.
Annuviel looked at Legolas and his eyes told her, asked of her, to tell them all their story. As soon as Legolas was helped to a seat, Annuviel finally nodded. "Indeed... we were in fact the best of friends." Gandalf's eyes widened, immediately knowing whom his hostess was and he could not help but smile. He now understood the reason for the lift in both Elves' spirits. He only wondered now why he did not see it sooner. But then again, he was known for missing a lot of things. Laurelén 's heart began to pound as she studied her mother and then Legolas. She now understood why her mother knew so much and she now knew why she had much lighter hair. She was standing before, but now the half Elf sank to a seat.
"Pray, Annuviel, continue with your tale," Aragorn said, with only an inkling of what she was meaning to tell.
"I once lived in Lothlorien and was one of Galadriel's maidens." Annuviel began, smiling a little at the memory of serving the Lady of the Wood. "Ages ago, yet clearly in my mind I still remember those days. There I learned much for it was rumored my mother was an Elf but my father's true identity was unknown. I was an abandoned child that none wanted anything to do with save for the Lady of the Wood. And so, she kindly took me in." Annuviel took a deep breath, reliving the memories. Legolas put his hand over hers under the table and squeezed it with what strength he had and she returned it with warmth.
"While in Caras Galadhon, I met with one of Galadriel's grandchildren, Arwen Undomiel." Aragorn's eyes were now boring into Annuviel's. He began to piece together the story and started to realize what a great burden his beloved and his friend bore. "We became fast friends, companions in everything. Then, we traveled to Rivendell for a great celebration and there she introduced me to a friend much like a brother, a young prince then. She introduced me to Legolas." Annuviel's gaze turned to the blond Elf's and her eyes warmed to see his fair face again as if from a dream. "After nearly a century, Arwen and I remained in Lothlorien, but we were asked to visit Mirkwood for it was Prince Legolas' birthday. From then on, I stayed in Mirkwood, and Legolas and I were rarely separated. Although I am not of royalty thus it took a long time for those of noble birth to accept the idea that Legolas and I were friends. I doubt all of them did."
Gandalf gave a slight nod at this having seen the young Elf many times before on his visits to Mirkwood. In fact he remembered now that she was always with Legolas. A friendship that blossomed into something more. I do not deny that her unusual beauty and an aura makes her an easy friend and an easy love. I wonder how I did not see it so many years before... then again there were many things that escaped my thoughts for years. He studied the two Elves at the table and saw that Legolas never looked so much happier, even in the condition he was in.
Gimli stole a glance at Laurelén who did not sit far from him and saw that she was enraptured by her mother's story and for good reason. It was becoming obvious as to whose daughter she was. Gimli could not help but smile. He could not exactly say he was fond of Legolas, but he could not deny that he was a good person at heart - though that was not something he would ever say aloud, especially if the Elf was around.
"Please, Annuviel," Frodo prodded gently, "continue..." Though the general idea of what was to come next did not need much explaining.
Annuviel gave a nod and squeezed Legolas' hand again. "As you might have guessed after those long years together, Legolas and I began to fall in love. We were still young then, mind you, just barely a thousand years old. Many disapproved of our friendship alone so you can imagine how they would spurn anything more between us."
"But that did not stop us," Legolas said softly. "Neither of us cared for the thoughts of others. I know I did not. Annuviel was everything to me. I could not bear the thought of being apart from her in any way and my father knew this. He knew me well enough. Till this day I do not know if he ever understood but he never made a move to stop us."
"After being together for some time I realized that something had changed within me." Annuviel stole a glance at her daughter. "I could not bear the thought of bringing shame upon Legolas or his family. Nor could I bear to give up the only proof of our love." Turning to her daughter, she held out her hand and Laurelén came to her side. "I was with child- Laurelén - and the only thing I knew I could do was run. It seemed fortunate for me that there had been a creature lurking near the woods that had been attacking our home for quite some time."
"You made everyone believe you had been killed -a victim of the beast," Aragorn murmured although he had not truly meant to say it aloud.
"And so you eventually came upon this place," Boromir added.
Annuviel nodded. Legolas shook his head and turned to Annuviel. "Why? Why did you leave? Why did you not tell me?"
"I had not the heart to hurt you that way. If they knew that I bore your child you would be shunned and -"
"I cared little for my royal duties then, Annuviel, and I care just as little for them now!"
"No you do not," Annuviel countered with an even voice. "You are older now, Legolas, wiser, and now you know that Mirkwood will need you! I loved you too much to take you away from your family, your life, your place..." Aragorn lowered his eyes for a moment, thinking of Arwen and what she had offered him: her immortality, her people, her family, her place as the Evenstar of the Elves in return for one life together.
Legolas suddenly embraced Annuviel whose eyes were filling with tears. "I would have gone with you. I would have done anything to be with you. I'm so sorry, Annuviel. When I found bloodied scraps of your clothing I searched for you for years." Legolas pulled away. None in the Fellowship could deny how moved they were by the sad tale that led to this reunion that never should have been for it was obvious that they should never have parted. "When hope finally left me. I nearly died of grief."
Annuviel looked at Legolas with surprise. "I did not know. I did not think that you would-"
"Love you so much?" he finished. Legolas shook his head. "Oh Annuviel, I loved you more than life itself. Arwen, my Father, Mithrandir, and Estel kept me going in the end and they somehow pulled me out of my depression. This quest gave me a small purpose to stay alive at least until the Ring was destroyed." Legolas turned to Laurelén. "Now.now I have more reason to live."
"I knew the moment I saw you," whispered Laurelén, "that you were someone special... Now I know why Naneth always thought so well of you. I am proud to be your daughter." Laurelén's lip quivered hoping that Legolas would be able to say the same.
Legolas smiled and held his arms out to Laurelén who embraced him. "I am very proud to be your father." He looked at his child and realized how much like her mother she really was. I was a fool not to see it earlier he thought.
"I named her after Laurelin, the Golden Tree of the Valar. She was the light in my weary darkness much like her father."
"When I saw you fighting, you reminded me much of your mother," Legolas smiled.
"Including the sense and beauty," Gimli quipped and they all laughed. "I know that you got much of your traits from your mother for you are not half as foolish as your father."
Laurelén laughed. "He cannot be that bad can he?" she asked.
Annuviel laughed. "You don't know the half of it my dear!"
Legolas sighed. "Yes, attack the helpless, injured Elf."
"Injured, yes, but helpless- never," Aragorn told him. "I am sorry my friend that I never knew how painful a burden you bore but I am glad to hear that I was able to help you bear it at least a little..."
Frodo smiled fondly at the family before him and realized that he missed Bilbo and the Shire. His longing was overcome by the idea that the sooner they accomplish their mission the sooner he can return to both. He was glad that despite the evils they faced, hope and happiness still existed.
Gandalf too was happy to see Legolas in such good spirits again. Slowly he began to recount the lighter days of the Elf's childhood seeing Annuviel always by his side. He had been there with Arwen when the Prince had fallen ill and came near death several times. For hundreds of years Legolas, when he was not confined to his bed, would wander listlessly. He was alert but seemed to care little for adventure and acted nothing like the Elf he once was. Gandalf could do nothing to lift the Elf's spirits for what could he have done to replace what was lost? Arwen will be glad to hear that Annuviel lives for I know that she too grieved but was strong for Legolas. It was only when Legolas and Aragorn met did the Elf return to his old self, for the most part.
That night they feasted and were merry, lifting all their spirits. Legolas, Annuviel, and Laurelén seemed very much like a young family and the Fellowship were surprised to see that Legolas' already beautiful smile could truly become brighter. That night, they slept with pleasant thoughts and their hope returned with no signs of fading. Despite being in the middle of a malevolent forest, the Company felt as if they were safe at home. The dreary evil could not seep into the cottage for there were no cracks in the merry atmosphere to let it in.
~~~~ Two days later, Legolas was almost fully healed and he was out in the forest training with his daughter, perfecting her skills with her archery. Gimli watched her with a smile for while his dislike for Legolas did not ebb, his unusually instant liking of both mother and daughter only grew. True they were still Elves, but unlike any Elves he had ever encountered. He offered her a few lessons with the axe but, more often than not, he was there to belittle Legolas to the Elf's dismay but everyone else's amusement.
Laurelén was also taking lessons from Boromir and Aragorn with sword fighting, though she preferred her long dagger given to her by her mother which was in turn a present to her by Thranduil himself. Legolas felt proud that her daughter wielded such an Elven weapon so skillfully crafted with care. He wondered how the unique Mirkwood designs on the hilt and scabbard of the blade escaped his notice earlier, but it did not matter now. Though Laurelén was young, it seemed that the battlefield would suit her well for her abilities seemed endless reminded Legolas of her mother. Annuviel has taught her well, he thought with a smile fit for a proud father.
Aragorn was often watching the family interact, especially the two lovers. He had never seen Legolas so happy before. He smiled more often with a look of gaiety that had no comparison. He jested with his friends more often, his wit sharper than before especially when he was up against Annuviel. But, it was obvious that she was the better at many things between them. Just like before they had their playful contests that almost made it seem as if they were never apart at all. Aragorn was truly happy for his friend especially now knowing how much he suffered through much of his long life. To be blessed with such a wonderful mate and child, he thought. I can only hope for a future half as good as this. Oh Arwen, can our love be so strong as to surpass time and death? Can our love last despite everything that goes against it? Whatever the future may hold for us both, melamin, I will never stop loving you. With the thought of the future on his mind, Aragorn made an announcement. "We shall leave on the morrow. We have lingered long enough and must continue on with our journey."
Annuviel nodded and looked at her daughter. "We shall accompany you then on this quest."
"No," Legolas almost shouted, stepping toward Annuviel. "It's too dangerous!"
Annuviel glared hard at the other Elf. "Think you that I do not know the danger that lies in this journey? I will not sit idly by and wait here like a helpless person. I have much to offer your Company with my skills and my knowledge. I have grown from when you last knew me, Legolas, do not underestimate me."
The rest of the Company was afraid to intervene in the argument so they merely stood and watched, wondering who would win. "My money's on Annuviel," Pippin shrugged.
"Me too," nodded Merry.
"I do not wish to endanger her, but she will be helpful," Gandalf nodded, watching the exchange carefully. "I believe her when she says she has grown much and she knows these lands well."
"Indeed," said Aragorn. "Legolas will have no chance. She is truly rare..."
"A rare treasure Legolas has been lucky to find," Gimli smiled.
"I would never want Annuviel for an enemy," chuckled Boromir.
"I second that," said Sam, joined by the other Hobbits.
Finally, Legolas sighed. "Alright, I see that I've lost, and I know you will come no matter what... as you've done many times before. Don't think I didn't know when you would follow me when I was out with the others hunting."
Annuviel smiled fondly, remembering the past. "I hear a 'but' coming, Legolas."
The Prince turned to the other Elf in the room. "She's not coming to Mordor," he announced.
Laurelén glared at her father. "That's what you think, Adar, but I will go with you and Naneth wherever the two of you should travel. Even death."
"Brave words for a child so young," Legolas told her warningly, but there was not mistaking the love he had in his eyes for Laurelén knowing the sincerity of her words.
"She's your daughter," one of the Fellowship announced earning a chuckle from the others.
Legolas sighed. "I know you are strong and have much potential to be a great Elven warrior but Laurelén - you are still young and lack experience. I would not have my child's life cut so short when it need not be."
Annuviel put a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "You shall come with us until we reach Lothlorien." Everyone turned to Annuviel. "We will need her help through these forests and I will not leave my daughter behind here alone. And yes we will go through Lothlorien for it is on the path we tread, no matter where it may lead us. It is the only place she will be safe and I know Galadriel will welcome her there."
"Then it has been decided," Gandalf spoke. "We shall leave at dawn." He turned to Annuviel and Laurelén. "How long to the edge of this forest?"
"Three days at most but if we move quickly and if we do not have so many incidents we should make it in less time," Annuviel replied.
~~~~ That night, long after all the others were fast asleep, as Legolas held Annuviel in his arms, he brushed his hand through her hair. "//Are you certain, Annuviel? Andelu i ven.//"
"//Why do you ask such a question?//" she sighed, squeezing his hand. "You know that this is the only thing to do. Have we not been apart long enough?"
Legolas held her tightly as if to answer her question. "In truth I am glad you and Laurelén will be with us. To have you so close gives me strength, Annuviel. I do not know how I have managed nearly a millennium without you."
"Amin hiraetha Legolas, I thought then that this was the best way..."
"Shh, it is but the past now and we are together as a family, as we should be and perhaps as a family we shall defeat this evil. You know, I think my father will be glad to see you and Laurelén. He always knew, I think."
"I would not put it past Lord Thranduil. He is wise and knows much more than given credit for. I do miss him, Legolas even though he was often far too difficult to be dealt with."
"You know he and Lord Elrond wanted Arwen and myself to marry." Annuviel suppressed a laugh. "But it was then that Aragorn and Arwen met and fell in love-nothing could break that."
Annuviel nodded and longed for her friend of old. Legolas' words confirmed her thoughts and while she knew now what fate beheld for Arwen, she also knew that her life would not be a complete loss. Arwen would not has known many other Elves and I am sure most of them are not well suited for her. Legolas is quite possibly the closest person for her to wed, but nay, that is not to be so. Even if Legolas did not love me, they are but brother and sister. Besides, if Arwen to give up her immortality and her people for a human, I am glad it is Aragorn. It may be a hasty conclusion on my part, but I see a great future for him and I can only imagine part of it will be because of the bright light of the Undomiel guiding him.
"I miss so much of our past but having you with me now I am happy enough." Legolas kissed Annuviel's forehead and smiled. "My words seem so trite- so unnecessarily sentimental, but I mean every word of it, melamin. Amin mela lle"
"I know. Though we have not been together for so long, I still know you best." Legolas cupped Annuviel's cheek in his hand. She closed her eyes and felt his soft lips kiss each lid with such tenderness she began to cry. Legolas looked at Annuviel and saw her tears. He wiped one away with his hand and kissed the other and kissed her eyes again as if to kiss her tears away. Then he left a trail of kisses down her cheek as he made his way to her lips. Annuviel pressed herself against Legolas, her hands around his neck, pulling him to her and she turned his kiss with all her heart. "Amin mela lle," she whispered when they broke their kiss for but a moment. They each drowned in each other's eyes and allowed themselves to forget everything and lose themselves for this one night.
~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~
Naneth - Mother Lau - No Lasto beth nin, tolo dan na ngalad - Na - Yes Sut - How Mankoi - Why Quel kaima - Sleep well Andelu i ven - the road is very dangerous Adar - Father Amin hiraetha - I am sorry Amin mela lle - I love you. Melamin - My love
Goodness gracious thank you so much for the reviews! I know my Elvish sucks but um, bear with me! More reviews are totally welcome!
Unfortunately I might be busy for the next week or longer so I might not be updating till sometime in January. sorry for an inconvenience! I promise to update ASAP though!
"//..//" denotes Elvish dialogue
Italics denote dream sequences or flashbacks (also Elvish words)
Synopsis: As the Fellowship of the Ring travels on their quest, none know that Legolas carries with him a grievous heart due to centuries of loneliness and sorrow that nearly killed him long ago. But, in the darkness of a forest overshadowed by Sauron's minions, they meet a light that guides them all to something that shall change their lives and their stories forever. Will it be enough to lift Legolas' heart or only serve to add to its heavy weight?
WHAT STRENGTH IS IN OUR HEARTS By Terra Forever
CHAPTER FOUR: Secrets of the Past
//So cold. How can I feel the cold? I'm not supposed to be able to feel cold,// thought Legolas. Yet his senses made him feel as if he was frozen in a block of ice. He finally opened his eyes but there was nothing to see. He could not see the hand that touched his face or the body that belonged to him when he moved to look down. He took a step but he was not sure where he was going or what he was doing. He moved to take another when he felt a stabbing pain in his chest, bringing him to his knees. "Agh! //Am I dead? I saw Annuviel! Was that really her? Perhaps this is death. but if so where is she? Why is it that we are still separated? Oh Eru, help me!//" Legolas took a breath but it only elicited more pain. "Ngh. Annuviel!" He could feel his eyes stinging with tears as they ran down his cheeks.
"Legolas!"
"Annuviel?" Legolas looked up to see himself in Mirkwood looking much like it was centuries ago. "Lau." Ahead of him was a beautiful Elf maiden smelling some flowers they both favored so much. "Annuviel!" Then there was the sound of a menacing growl. He started to run to her but the pain in his chest brought him back to the ground. "Laauuu!" He could only watch as she was murdered before his very eyes. "Annuviel!" He was sobbing now on the ground crying as hard as he did those many years ago. Then he heard another sound. "Naneth!" He turned in the opposite direction to see his mother breathe her last. "Naneth!" All around him now were scenes of death and destruction. Legolas could not escape the visions and soon he was lying on the ground, unable to move. Amidst the cries of pain and the sounds of fighting, he could hear whispers that were growing louder. Whispers in the Dark tongue of Sauron, stealing his life away as they threw him deeper into despair. The greater his misery, the easier he will be willing to slip away from life.
"Legolas!"
//It cannot be her//, he thought. //Lau. Enough.//
"Legolas! //Lasto beth nin, tolo dan na ngalad.//" A final tear slipped from Legolas' eyes when suddenly he was blinded by a bright light and he raised his hand to reach out to the voice he missed so much.
~~~~~~ Legolas let out a sharp gasp and opened his eyes only to see darkness. A fleeting moment of panic struck him and he feared that his nightmare was real; he had fallen to darkness; he truly had failed them all. However, the soft glow of the moonlight streaming in through a window comforted him and suddenly a slight glow on his side gave him warmth. And finally he realized that the hand he had raised in his dreams was actually grasping something; soft hands from long ago. Legolas turned his head slowly and his blue eyes met with dark irises. "Annuviel," he whispered, afraid that it wasn't true. He let go of her hand and moved to touch her face and she pressed his trembling hand against her cheek. His lower lip trembled at the touch of her still fair skin, soft and warm, and real. "//It is really you.//"
The Elf nodded with a small smile. "Na," she whispered. "It is I, Legolas..." A tear fell from her eye and he moved his hand to wipe it away.
"//You called me back.//" Annuviel nodded. "//Your gift has grown. How did you know?//"
"//How can I not when our hearts have been bound for so long even our absence.//" She pressed her hand over Legolas' chest. "//I could feel you slipping away from me and closer to the darkness. I could lose you...//" She touched his face, brushing her fingers against his warming skin. "I pray thee, rest..."
"But you died... sut? Mankoi? Annuviel I beseech you"
The sad, pleading blue eyes struck Annuviel in her heart and she set his hand down on the bed. "All shall be answered on the morrow when next you wake. Your body is still weak, Legolas. You need much rest if you should like to continue your journey. Quel kaima. You are safe now, Legolas."
Hearing her say his name again was a simple comfort and enough to lull the prince to sleep. It had been long since he had heard her soft, beautiful voice beyond that of his memories and dreams. "Laurelén ...is she..."
Annuviel softly brushed her lips against her beloved's. "Na... she is." For the first time in nearly a millennium, Legolas slept peacefully.
~~~~ The next morning, Aragorn and Gandalf were the first to wake and they immediately asked of Legolas' condition. Annuviel told them that he had woken during the night and should wake up again that day. He was not one to remain bed lain. "How do you know this lady?" asked Aragorn.
Annuviel smiled. "I can imagine that none of you are ones to stay in bed, Aragorn. Otherwise how would you move on in your quest?"
"//Naneth//" Laurelén called, "should I make breakfast or should I wait until all have awoken?"
"I should think that the rest will wake soon enough so prepare some for all of us, including Legolas," said Annuviel, smiling.
Laurelén studied her mother and realized that for the first time in the years she had known her, her mother's smile was truly bright and her voice light and airy. For the first time her eyes had brightened and Laurelén knew it was the Prince's doing. Neither Aragorn nor Gandalf truly noticed but they knew that their hostess had a lighter heart than when they first arrived.
Soon, as Annuviel predicted, the rest of the Company arose and all were greeted by delicious food. "You are a good cook, Laurelén," Frodo complimented Laurelén and she gave a slight blush. "I have rarely had food this delicious." The others agreed and Laurelén could feel her cheeks burn, obvious despite her dark complexion. "How does Legolas fair?"
All turned to Annuviel. "He is improving, Master Baggins. I am glad to say that he had the will to live after all."
"That Elf is more stubborn and more foolish than anyone else I know," muttered Gimli, fondly. "I would expect nothing less from the Prince of Mirkwood."
"Of course you shouldn't, otherwise you'd be more foolish than I imagined Dwarves to be," came a voice and all turned to see Legolas leaning against the doorframe. He was still slightly pale and weak, but there was more color to his face and his lips were turned up in a comforting smile.
"Legolas," they all chorused in relief. Annuviel walked to him, having him put his weight on her. "Legolas, you should be in bed," she chided him. "I should have known you would do something like this, foolish Elf. Master Gimli was right to call you so. A thousand years and you've grown only to be even more stubborn."
"And you no less," muttered Legolas, "acting more of a mother to me than to your own child."
"Yes, well she needs less mothering than you." Though that thought reminded Legolas of the mother he lost long ago, it did nothing to darken his mood. It was all a part of their usual play that he missed so much.
"You know each other?" Pippin asked looking at the two. There was definitely something unusual here, he thought. They just met and already they seemed to know each other so well.
Annuviel looked at Legolas and his eyes told her, asked of her, to tell them all their story. As soon as Legolas was helped to a seat, Annuviel finally nodded. "Indeed... we were in fact the best of friends." Gandalf's eyes widened, immediately knowing whom his hostess was and he could not help but smile. He now understood the reason for the lift in both Elves' spirits. He only wondered now why he did not see it sooner. But then again, he was known for missing a lot of things. Laurelén 's heart began to pound as she studied her mother and then Legolas. She now understood why her mother knew so much and she now knew why she had much lighter hair. She was standing before, but now the half Elf sank to a seat.
"Pray, Annuviel, continue with your tale," Aragorn said, with only an inkling of what she was meaning to tell.
"I once lived in Lothlorien and was one of Galadriel's maidens." Annuviel began, smiling a little at the memory of serving the Lady of the Wood. "Ages ago, yet clearly in my mind I still remember those days. There I learned much for it was rumored my mother was an Elf but my father's true identity was unknown. I was an abandoned child that none wanted anything to do with save for the Lady of the Wood. And so, she kindly took me in." Annuviel took a deep breath, reliving the memories. Legolas put his hand over hers under the table and squeezed it with what strength he had and she returned it with warmth.
"While in Caras Galadhon, I met with one of Galadriel's grandchildren, Arwen Undomiel." Aragorn's eyes were now boring into Annuviel's. He began to piece together the story and started to realize what a great burden his beloved and his friend bore. "We became fast friends, companions in everything. Then, we traveled to Rivendell for a great celebration and there she introduced me to a friend much like a brother, a young prince then. She introduced me to Legolas." Annuviel's gaze turned to the blond Elf's and her eyes warmed to see his fair face again as if from a dream. "After nearly a century, Arwen and I remained in Lothlorien, but we were asked to visit Mirkwood for it was Prince Legolas' birthday. From then on, I stayed in Mirkwood, and Legolas and I were rarely separated. Although I am not of royalty thus it took a long time for those of noble birth to accept the idea that Legolas and I were friends. I doubt all of them did."
Gandalf gave a slight nod at this having seen the young Elf many times before on his visits to Mirkwood. In fact he remembered now that she was always with Legolas. A friendship that blossomed into something more. I do not deny that her unusual beauty and an aura makes her an easy friend and an easy love. I wonder how I did not see it so many years before... then again there were many things that escaped my thoughts for years. He studied the two Elves at the table and saw that Legolas never looked so much happier, even in the condition he was in.
Gimli stole a glance at Laurelén who did not sit far from him and saw that she was enraptured by her mother's story and for good reason. It was becoming obvious as to whose daughter she was. Gimli could not help but smile. He could not exactly say he was fond of Legolas, but he could not deny that he was a good person at heart - though that was not something he would ever say aloud, especially if the Elf was around.
"Please, Annuviel," Frodo prodded gently, "continue..." Though the general idea of what was to come next did not need much explaining.
Annuviel gave a nod and squeezed Legolas' hand again. "As you might have guessed after those long years together, Legolas and I began to fall in love. We were still young then, mind you, just barely a thousand years old. Many disapproved of our friendship alone so you can imagine how they would spurn anything more between us."
"But that did not stop us," Legolas said softly. "Neither of us cared for the thoughts of others. I know I did not. Annuviel was everything to me. I could not bear the thought of being apart from her in any way and my father knew this. He knew me well enough. Till this day I do not know if he ever understood but he never made a move to stop us."
"After being together for some time I realized that something had changed within me." Annuviel stole a glance at her daughter. "I could not bear the thought of bringing shame upon Legolas or his family. Nor could I bear to give up the only proof of our love." Turning to her daughter, she held out her hand and Laurelén came to her side. "I was with child- Laurelén - and the only thing I knew I could do was run. It seemed fortunate for me that there had been a creature lurking near the woods that had been attacking our home for quite some time."
"You made everyone believe you had been killed -a victim of the beast," Aragorn murmured although he had not truly meant to say it aloud.
"And so you eventually came upon this place," Boromir added.
Annuviel nodded. Legolas shook his head and turned to Annuviel. "Why? Why did you leave? Why did you not tell me?"
"I had not the heart to hurt you that way. If they knew that I bore your child you would be shunned and -"
"I cared little for my royal duties then, Annuviel, and I care just as little for them now!"
"No you do not," Annuviel countered with an even voice. "You are older now, Legolas, wiser, and now you know that Mirkwood will need you! I loved you too much to take you away from your family, your life, your place..." Aragorn lowered his eyes for a moment, thinking of Arwen and what she had offered him: her immortality, her people, her family, her place as the Evenstar of the Elves in return for one life together.
Legolas suddenly embraced Annuviel whose eyes were filling with tears. "I would have gone with you. I would have done anything to be with you. I'm so sorry, Annuviel. When I found bloodied scraps of your clothing I searched for you for years." Legolas pulled away. None in the Fellowship could deny how moved they were by the sad tale that led to this reunion that never should have been for it was obvious that they should never have parted. "When hope finally left me. I nearly died of grief."
Annuviel looked at Legolas with surprise. "I did not know. I did not think that you would-"
"Love you so much?" he finished. Legolas shook his head. "Oh Annuviel, I loved you more than life itself. Arwen, my Father, Mithrandir, and Estel kept me going in the end and they somehow pulled me out of my depression. This quest gave me a small purpose to stay alive at least until the Ring was destroyed." Legolas turned to Laurelén. "Now.now I have more reason to live."
"I knew the moment I saw you," whispered Laurelén, "that you were someone special... Now I know why Naneth always thought so well of you. I am proud to be your daughter." Laurelén's lip quivered hoping that Legolas would be able to say the same.
Legolas smiled and held his arms out to Laurelén who embraced him. "I am very proud to be your father." He looked at his child and realized how much like her mother she really was. I was a fool not to see it earlier he thought.
"I named her after Laurelin, the Golden Tree of the Valar. She was the light in my weary darkness much like her father."
"When I saw you fighting, you reminded me much of your mother," Legolas smiled.
"Including the sense and beauty," Gimli quipped and they all laughed. "I know that you got much of your traits from your mother for you are not half as foolish as your father."
Laurelén laughed. "He cannot be that bad can he?" she asked.
Annuviel laughed. "You don't know the half of it my dear!"
Legolas sighed. "Yes, attack the helpless, injured Elf."
"Injured, yes, but helpless- never," Aragorn told him. "I am sorry my friend that I never knew how painful a burden you bore but I am glad to hear that I was able to help you bear it at least a little..."
Frodo smiled fondly at the family before him and realized that he missed Bilbo and the Shire. His longing was overcome by the idea that the sooner they accomplish their mission the sooner he can return to both. He was glad that despite the evils they faced, hope and happiness still existed.
Gandalf too was happy to see Legolas in such good spirits again. Slowly he began to recount the lighter days of the Elf's childhood seeing Annuviel always by his side. He had been there with Arwen when the Prince had fallen ill and came near death several times. For hundreds of years Legolas, when he was not confined to his bed, would wander listlessly. He was alert but seemed to care little for adventure and acted nothing like the Elf he once was. Gandalf could do nothing to lift the Elf's spirits for what could he have done to replace what was lost? Arwen will be glad to hear that Annuviel lives for I know that she too grieved but was strong for Legolas. It was only when Legolas and Aragorn met did the Elf return to his old self, for the most part.
That night they feasted and were merry, lifting all their spirits. Legolas, Annuviel, and Laurelén seemed very much like a young family and the Fellowship were surprised to see that Legolas' already beautiful smile could truly become brighter. That night, they slept with pleasant thoughts and their hope returned with no signs of fading. Despite being in the middle of a malevolent forest, the Company felt as if they were safe at home. The dreary evil could not seep into the cottage for there were no cracks in the merry atmosphere to let it in.
~~~~ Two days later, Legolas was almost fully healed and he was out in the forest training with his daughter, perfecting her skills with her archery. Gimli watched her with a smile for while his dislike for Legolas did not ebb, his unusually instant liking of both mother and daughter only grew. True they were still Elves, but unlike any Elves he had ever encountered. He offered her a few lessons with the axe but, more often than not, he was there to belittle Legolas to the Elf's dismay but everyone else's amusement.
Laurelén was also taking lessons from Boromir and Aragorn with sword fighting, though she preferred her long dagger given to her by her mother which was in turn a present to her by Thranduil himself. Legolas felt proud that her daughter wielded such an Elven weapon so skillfully crafted with care. He wondered how the unique Mirkwood designs on the hilt and scabbard of the blade escaped his notice earlier, but it did not matter now. Though Laurelén was young, it seemed that the battlefield would suit her well for her abilities seemed endless reminded Legolas of her mother. Annuviel has taught her well, he thought with a smile fit for a proud father.
Aragorn was often watching the family interact, especially the two lovers. He had never seen Legolas so happy before. He smiled more often with a look of gaiety that had no comparison. He jested with his friends more often, his wit sharper than before especially when he was up against Annuviel. But, it was obvious that she was the better at many things between them. Just like before they had their playful contests that almost made it seem as if they were never apart at all. Aragorn was truly happy for his friend especially now knowing how much he suffered through much of his long life. To be blessed with such a wonderful mate and child, he thought. I can only hope for a future half as good as this. Oh Arwen, can our love be so strong as to surpass time and death? Can our love last despite everything that goes against it? Whatever the future may hold for us both, melamin, I will never stop loving you. With the thought of the future on his mind, Aragorn made an announcement. "We shall leave on the morrow. We have lingered long enough and must continue on with our journey."
Annuviel nodded and looked at her daughter. "We shall accompany you then on this quest."
"No," Legolas almost shouted, stepping toward Annuviel. "It's too dangerous!"
Annuviel glared hard at the other Elf. "Think you that I do not know the danger that lies in this journey? I will not sit idly by and wait here like a helpless person. I have much to offer your Company with my skills and my knowledge. I have grown from when you last knew me, Legolas, do not underestimate me."
The rest of the Company was afraid to intervene in the argument so they merely stood and watched, wondering who would win. "My money's on Annuviel," Pippin shrugged.
"Me too," nodded Merry.
"I do not wish to endanger her, but she will be helpful," Gandalf nodded, watching the exchange carefully. "I believe her when she says she has grown much and she knows these lands well."
"Indeed," said Aragorn. "Legolas will have no chance. She is truly rare..."
"A rare treasure Legolas has been lucky to find," Gimli smiled.
"I would never want Annuviel for an enemy," chuckled Boromir.
"I second that," said Sam, joined by the other Hobbits.
Finally, Legolas sighed. "Alright, I see that I've lost, and I know you will come no matter what... as you've done many times before. Don't think I didn't know when you would follow me when I was out with the others hunting."
Annuviel smiled fondly, remembering the past. "I hear a 'but' coming, Legolas."
The Prince turned to the other Elf in the room. "She's not coming to Mordor," he announced.
Laurelén glared at her father. "That's what you think, Adar, but I will go with you and Naneth wherever the two of you should travel. Even death."
"Brave words for a child so young," Legolas told her warningly, but there was not mistaking the love he had in his eyes for Laurelén knowing the sincerity of her words.
"She's your daughter," one of the Fellowship announced earning a chuckle from the others.
Legolas sighed. "I know you are strong and have much potential to be a great Elven warrior but Laurelén - you are still young and lack experience. I would not have my child's life cut so short when it need not be."
Annuviel put a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "You shall come with us until we reach Lothlorien." Everyone turned to Annuviel. "We will need her help through these forests and I will not leave my daughter behind here alone. And yes we will go through Lothlorien for it is on the path we tread, no matter where it may lead us. It is the only place she will be safe and I know Galadriel will welcome her there."
"Then it has been decided," Gandalf spoke. "We shall leave at dawn." He turned to Annuviel and Laurelén. "How long to the edge of this forest?"
"Three days at most but if we move quickly and if we do not have so many incidents we should make it in less time," Annuviel replied.
~~~~ That night, long after all the others were fast asleep, as Legolas held Annuviel in his arms, he brushed his hand through her hair. "//Are you certain, Annuviel? Andelu i ven.//"
"//Why do you ask such a question?//" she sighed, squeezing his hand. "You know that this is the only thing to do. Have we not been apart long enough?"
Legolas held her tightly as if to answer her question. "In truth I am glad you and Laurelén will be with us. To have you so close gives me strength, Annuviel. I do not know how I have managed nearly a millennium without you."
"Amin hiraetha Legolas, I thought then that this was the best way..."
"Shh, it is but the past now and we are together as a family, as we should be and perhaps as a family we shall defeat this evil. You know, I think my father will be glad to see you and Laurelén. He always knew, I think."
"I would not put it past Lord Thranduil. He is wise and knows much more than given credit for. I do miss him, Legolas even though he was often far too difficult to be dealt with."
"You know he and Lord Elrond wanted Arwen and myself to marry." Annuviel suppressed a laugh. "But it was then that Aragorn and Arwen met and fell in love-nothing could break that."
Annuviel nodded and longed for her friend of old. Legolas' words confirmed her thoughts and while she knew now what fate beheld for Arwen, she also knew that her life would not be a complete loss. Arwen would not has known many other Elves and I am sure most of them are not well suited for her. Legolas is quite possibly the closest person for her to wed, but nay, that is not to be so. Even if Legolas did not love me, they are but brother and sister. Besides, if Arwen to give up her immortality and her people for a human, I am glad it is Aragorn. It may be a hasty conclusion on my part, but I see a great future for him and I can only imagine part of it will be because of the bright light of the Undomiel guiding him.
"I miss so much of our past but having you with me now I am happy enough." Legolas kissed Annuviel's forehead and smiled. "My words seem so trite- so unnecessarily sentimental, but I mean every word of it, melamin. Amin mela lle"
"I know. Though we have not been together for so long, I still know you best." Legolas cupped Annuviel's cheek in his hand. She closed her eyes and felt his soft lips kiss each lid with such tenderness she began to cry. Legolas looked at Annuviel and saw her tears. He wiped one away with his hand and kissed the other and kissed her eyes again as if to kiss her tears away. Then he left a trail of kisses down her cheek as he made his way to her lips. Annuviel pressed herself against Legolas, her hands around his neck, pulling him to her and she turned his kiss with all her heart. "Amin mela lle," she whispered when they broke their kiss for but a moment. They each drowned in each other's eyes and allowed themselves to forget everything and lose themselves for this one night.
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Naneth - Mother Lau - No Lasto beth nin, tolo dan na ngalad - Na - Yes Sut - How Mankoi - Why Quel kaima - Sleep well Andelu i ven - the road is very dangerous Adar - Father Amin hiraetha - I am sorry Amin mela lle - I love you. Melamin - My love
Goodness gracious thank you so much for the reviews! I know my Elvish sucks but um, bear with me! More reviews are totally welcome!
Unfortunately I might be busy for the next week or longer so I might not be updating till sometime in January. sorry for an inconvenience! I promise to update ASAP though!