Silvan Soldier
randomwriter96
Disclaimer: Nope, I don't own LOTR. And I am broke. Yes.
Note: This is my attempt at recreating Thranduil's childhood and life thereon using the info I have from the Silmarillion, the Unfinished Tales, LOTR, etc. And websites such as the Encyclopedia of Arda. Do not hesitate to tell me if I have a mistake or not. ^^;
Enjoy. :o) And thank you for reviewing.
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Oropher, finally free of conversational Noldors, quietly observed the growing chatter of excitement and activity in Lindon's vast and beautiful gardens. It reminded him of the merry festivals a while ago in Doriath...when there was a Doriath. Shivering at the memory of its invasion and destruction, he walked down a pathway, miraculously undisturbed by scampering elf children and flirtatious young elves. The trees lining the pathway were magnificent, candles gently swaying from the overhanging branches in their small brass holders. The soft light they cast illuminated the foliage and fell in beams around Oropher's upturned face.
"Gil-galad certainly knows how to decorate his gardens...." he smiled to himself. His formal green robes swept against the pavement stones and brushed aside fallen leaves. While soaking in the view and the blissful atmosphere, he suddenly found that his feet took him into a dimly-lit secluded area, consisting of tall hedges that partially hid a plain marble bench. And that bench already had an occupant.
"What are you doing here, Lord Elrond?" Oropher quietly stepped in front of the well-known charismatic elf. Although considered still young, he quickly proved himself worthy a position among the high and mighty. Elrond, quite startled, sprang up and bowed, immediately noticing the thin, shining circlet wound around Oropher's head. As Elrond took a few more seconds to straighten and observe the king, Oropher spoke again. "Are you hiding from someone? You look tense," he smiled a gracious and paternal smile, the kind that only experienced, older lords knew how to express, curiously enough.
"Good evening, your majesty. No, I am not hiding from someone, but rather the noise and the stifling crowds. Not the mention the odd-looking dessert people seem to insist that I eat. I'm afraid it's a bit overwhelming for me," Elrond admitted, casting a glance at the brighter lights further off. Oropher nodded understandingly.
"Yes, it can be....I hear you are Gil-galad's newly appointed military Herald?" Elrond lowered his head modestly.
"I am...but I was already his vice regent. It is out of convenience really. I know many others who are more worthy of the position."
"Indeed, son of Eärendil?" here, Oropher gazed directly into Elrond's bright eyes. "Such positions don't rain from the sky. They are given to those that will hold it well. And I deem that you will....How is Imladris faring?" Elrond smiled at the mention of his home and refuge.
"Imladris is doing well. It is very quiet and peaceful. We have had no evil encounters...yet," Elrond let his face fall into worry. As he clasped his hands together, a flash appeared. Oropher glanced at a glimmering blue ring on Elrond's finger.
"Vilya..." Oropher murmured. Elrond drew his hand back inside his long sleeve. "I did not know Gil-galad entrusted it to you."
"It was a few centuries ago. I still have slight difficulties with it. I have to keep it on guard at all times. Imladris on guard at all times. It is tiring, but it is my duty," Elrond faintly smiled. "How did you know about it?"
"I have met Celebrimbor once," Oropher said, sighing. "A very good craftsman. He is one of a kind." But he did not answer the question. Elrond decided not to inquire further. Oropher abruptly changed the subject. "You know, I would like to discuss the matters of lore one day with you although you may know more than I!" He let out a halted chuckle, and then let it awkwardly fade. "I don't have much time for lore," he continued wistfully. "I wish I did." Elrond, also well-known for his love of the library, sympathetically put a hand on Oropher's shoulder.
"I am sure you will have time to do so once your son is old enough to rule Greenwood," he said, and added respectfully, "He would make a fine ruler, I am certain of it," Oropher simply nodded slowly.
"I would hope so. He's still so young...only a child. I cannot imagine him ruling now, lest having holidays created for every single day of the year should become a Greenwood tradition!" the two laughed out loud. "Ai...I should be heading back. Thranduil is competing and would be sorely infuriated should I miss any of it. Would you accompany me?" Oropher turned to Elrond? Who could say no? Elrond thought as he smiled, walking back onto the pathway with the king towards the more livelier aspect of Elvish civilization.
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Thranduil nervously clutched his bow with both hands and bit his lower lip. Warm-ups were already over and a tall, friendly elf was checking off names and constantly making sure the elf children did not fight each other. Children with weapons, especially real ones, can be dangerous. Very dangerous.
'Where is ada?' Thranduil stood on his tiptoes to try and see over the heads of the gathering adult elves. They were all busy pointing out their own children and proudly nodding.
"Thranduil! Have you been pinned yet?" Galion bounded over excitedly, his short sword safely sheathed and bouncing against his leg. Thranduil nodded, showing the little white ribbon pinned on his chest. "You're going fourth? You're lucky! I have to go first.." Galion pointed at the 1 written on his own ribbon.
"What are you doing in sword fighting? You're not battling other people, are you?" Thranduil's eyes widened. Galion wrinkled his nose.
"We only get to battle each other with wooden swords, but we get to use our real ones to demonstrate our sword abilities by ourselves. You know, swinging, slicing..." Galion babbled enthusiastically. He tilted his head after a moment, observing Thranduil.
"Is there a bug in my hair?" Thranduil immediately froze, noticing Galion's curious stares.
"No, there isn't. Don't worry. I was just wondering...how come you never told me you were a prince? I can keep secrets, if you didn't want anyone else to know, although it's too late now, I guess..." Galion looked at several elflings who were whispering and pointing at Thranduil.
"I didn't think it was such a big deal," Thranduil muttered. "Plus, I want to be like you and all the other elflings. That maybe you might become my friend just because, instead of the fact that I am a prince. I don't- I don't have very many at home." Galion smiled.
"I can be your friend! That is...you like adventure, don't you?" He looked skeptically at Thranduil. Thranduil nodded eagerly. "And cherry pies?" Another eager nod. "Then you are officially my friend, your highness," Galion bowed in an exaggerated manner. Thranduil laughed and poked him.
"Get up! Don't do that....Oh! Maybe we can be normal if we're BOTH princes!" Galion looked at him with wide eyes.
"You can make me a prince?"
"Well...not exactly a REAL one. But we can pretend! You like adventure, don't you?" Thranduil smiled. Galion nodded and pondered.
"Well, since you're the real prince, give me a title."
"A title?" Thranduil looked bewildered.
"You know, Prince of...something," Galion encouraged.
"Oh! Ok. Um...Prince of...oh, everything's occupied!" Thranduil grew frustrated.
"Cherry pies are not occupied," Galion whispered.
"Prince of Cherry Pies?" Thranduil dissolved into a giggle fit. Galion pouted. "Well, think of something better then! As far as I know, being a prince of cherry pies can be a very yummy position."
"All right! Hrm...How about Prince of the Battle Fields, Master of Sword Fighting? I'm sure my father told me story once that had that prince in it. He was very brave," Thranduil looked at Galion. He grinned.
"It sounds like a real title! We can slay dragons and lead troops and kill THOUSANDS of orcs with a single hand!" Galion drew out his sword.
"You are a lot braver than I am!" Thranduil said.
"Pretend, silly! We can be just as old as our fathers," Galion said with a tone of complete assurance and pulled a serious grimace remarkably not unlike the disapproving faces of adult elves. Thranduil laughed and pulled a serious old-elf grimace of his own. "Not bad!" Galion surveyed Thranduil's imitation.
"I tried," Thranduil smiled and shrugged, and began standing on his tiptoes again, looking for Oropher.
"Are you looking for your father?" Galion inquired.
"Yes...he's not here and the tournaments are almost starting! He promised that he would not miss any of it," Thranduil let his shoulders sag a little.
"And he's right here," Oropher came up behind Thranduil. Elrond had excused himself not more than a minute ago, having walked quickly away from an elf maiden he recognized. She had been trying to catch Elrond's attention all year with no intention to desist. Which Oropher found amusing. The two elflings yelped and fell onto their rear ends. He laughed and asked, "Are you two all right?" The two elflings hauled themselves off the grass and nodded mutely. "Would you like to introduce me to this handsome young elf?" The king raised his eyebrows, smiling at Galion. Galion could only blink and stare.
"Oh! Right, father, this is Galion. Galion, this is my father," Thranduil waved his hands between the two elves.
"Well, hello Galion. Pleased to meet you," Oropher bent down and stretched out his hand. Galion didn't move an inch.
"Galion? Galion, are you feeling all right?" Thranduil frowned and waved his hand up and down in front of his friend's mesmerized and frightened face. Galion snapped out of his stunned reverie and stuttered.
"P-pleased to meet you too, your majesty...." Galion looked up at the noble, fair-looking (and rather amused) ruler nervously. He then whispered to Thranduil, "Did I say it right? Is that how I'm supposed to say it?" Thranduil nodded.
"You did fine. Father does not mind so much about formal greetings, except when it comes to me," Thranduil sighed. "I had to take lessons on it."
"And it taught you some very important social graces. That is important. Now, hurry along! Good luck to you both," Oropher gently pushed the both of them towards the large crowd of elf children, massing in the shadow of a large oak tree, nervously anticipating the coming contests.
"Bye, ada!" Thranduil waved at his father and turned around, grabbing Galion's hand and the both walked towards the giant tree. "Were you feeling ok back there?" Thranduil looked concerned. Galion lowered his head.
"I'm sorry. It's just that I've never talked to a king before..."
"Not even Gil-galad?"
"No! Not the High King, no....He's always surrounded by important people. I don't think we're allowed to talk to him. I'm too afraid, anyhow," Galion shook his head.
"He's really nice! I'll bet he'll love to talk to you once he finds out you're a prince too,"
"But I'm not really-"
"Of course you are!" Thranduil carelessly waved his hand. "And go out there and win!"
"Win?" Galion asked, a confused expression in his eyes.
"Yes, win! Your name was just called," Thranduil beamed, looking at the announcer who was facing a crowd of cheerful parents and guests. Galion tensed up and nearly tripped on his way towards the swords ground. Thranduil intently watched his friend. He had a new friend! And a prince, no less.
To be continued...
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How was it? ^^ *points to review button*
To Dragon-of-the-north: :o) Yes, I wanted to point out the love for jewels since I believe it's an important part of his personality and will shape his character as a ruler later on. As for the elf, he'll come up later! He's a nice one, so no real suspense or evil surprise. ^^; Thank you!! You must write on as well. I love your story.
To feanen: :o) Thank you!
To Lutris: :o) Oops, I must've made the chapter kind of confusing. The tall elf is the older brother of the elflings who insulted Thranduil. Both of them have no names yet, but they'll come up later. Galion is the one who befriends Thranduil almost immediately. And thank you for reviewing!! Hope you had a good break. :D
To daw the minstrel: :o) So am I (interested in Thranduil's earlier life, I mean). I wish Tolkien had written a history about him. Thank you!
To Hello...: Elrond has arrived. :o) Thank you!
To ????: Here it is. ^^; Sorry. I'm a slow updater.
To Lirinel: Thank you! ^_^ I'm glad you like it.
randomwriter96
Disclaimer: Nope, I don't own LOTR. And I am broke. Yes.
Note: This is my attempt at recreating Thranduil's childhood and life thereon using the info I have from the Silmarillion, the Unfinished Tales, LOTR, etc. And websites such as the Encyclopedia of Arda. Do not hesitate to tell me if I have a mistake or not. ^^;
Enjoy. :o) And thank you for reviewing.
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Oropher, finally free of conversational Noldors, quietly observed the growing chatter of excitement and activity in Lindon's vast and beautiful gardens. It reminded him of the merry festivals a while ago in Doriath...when there was a Doriath. Shivering at the memory of its invasion and destruction, he walked down a pathway, miraculously undisturbed by scampering elf children and flirtatious young elves. The trees lining the pathway were magnificent, candles gently swaying from the overhanging branches in their small brass holders. The soft light they cast illuminated the foliage and fell in beams around Oropher's upturned face.
"Gil-galad certainly knows how to decorate his gardens...." he smiled to himself. His formal green robes swept against the pavement stones and brushed aside fallen leaves. While soaking in the view and the blissful atmosphere, he suddenly found that his feet took him into a dimly-lit secluded area, consisting of tall hedges that partially hid a plain marble bench. And that bench already had an occupant.
"What are you doing here, Lord Elrond?" Oropher quietly stepped in front of the well-known charismatic elf. Although considered still young, he quickly proved himself worthy a position among the high and mighty. Elrond, quite startled, sprang up and bowed, immediately noticing the thin, shining circlet wound around Oropher's head. As Elrond took a few more seconds to straighten and observe the king, Oropher spoke again. "Are you hiding from someone? You look tense," he smiled a gracious and paternal smile, the kind that only experienced, older lords knew how to express, curiously enough.
"Good evening, your majesty. No, I am not hiding from someone, but rather the noise and the stifling crowds. Not the mention the odd-looking dessert people seem to insist that I eat. I'm afraid it's a bit overwhelming for me," Elrond admitted, casting a glance at the brighter lights further off. Oropher nodded understandingly.
"Yes, it can be....I hear you are Gil-galad's newly appointed military Herald?" Elrond lowered his head modestly.
"I am...but I was already his vice regent. It is out of convenience really. I know many others who are more worthy of the position."
"Indeed, son of Eärendil?" here, Oropher gazed directly into Elrond's bright eyes. "Such positions don't rain from the sky. They are given to those that will hold it well. And I deem that you will....How is Imladris faring?" Elrond smiled at the mention of his home and refuge.
"Imladris is doing well. It is very quiet and peaceful. We have had no evil encounters...yet," Elrond let his face fall into worry. As he clasped his hands together, a flash appeared. Oropher glanced at a glimmering blue ring on Elrond's finger.
"Vilya..." Oropher murmured. Elrond drew his hand back inside his long sleeve. "I did not know Gil-galad entrusted it to you."
"It was a few centuries ago. I still have slight difficulties with it. I have to keep it on guard at all times. Imladris on guard at all times. It is tiring, but it is my duty," Elrond faintly smiled. "How did you know about it?"
"I have met Celebrimbor once," Oropher said, sighing. "A very good craftsman. He is one of a kind." But he did not answer the question. Elrond decided not to inquire further. Oropher abruptly changed the subject. "You know, I would like to discuss the matters of lore one day with you although you may know more than I!" He let out a halted chuckle, and then let it awkwardly fade. "I don't have much time for lore," he continued wistfully. "I wish I did." Elrond, also well-known for his love of the library, sympathetically put a hand on Oropher's shoulder.
"I am sure you will have time to do so once your son is old enough to rule Greenwood," he said, and added respectfully, "He would make a fine ruler, I am certain of it," Oropher simply nodded slowly.
"I would hope so. He's still so young...only a child. I cannot imagine him ruling now, lest having holidays created for every single day of the year should become a Greenwood tradition!" the two laughed out loud. "Ai...I should be heading back. Thranduil is competing and would be sorely infuriated should I miss any of it. Would you accompany me?" Oropher turned to Elrond? Who could say no? Elrond thought as he smiled, walking back onto the pathway with the king towards the more livelier aspect of Elvish civilization.
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Thranduil nervously clutched his bow with both hands and bit his lower lip. Warm-ups were already over and a tall, friendly elf was checking off names and constantly making sure the elf children did not fight each other. Children with weapons, especially real ones, can be dangerous. Very dangerous.
'Where is ada?' Thranduil stood on his tiptoes to try and see over the heads of the gathering adult elves. They were all busy pointing out their own children and proudly nodding.
"Thranduil! Have you been pinned yet?" Galion bounded over excitedly, his short sword safely sheathed and bouncing against his leg. Thranduil nodded, showing the little white ribbon pinned on his chest. "You're going fourth? You're lucky! I have to go first.." Galion pointed at the 1 written on his own ribbon.
"What are you doing in sword fighting? You're not battling other people, are you?" Thranduil's eyes widened. Galion wrinkled his nose.
"We only get to battle each other with wooden swords, but we get to use our real ones to demonstrate our sword abilities by ourselves. You know, swinging, slicing..." Galion babbled enthusiastically. He tilted his head after a moment, observing Thranduil.
"Is there a bug in my hair?" Thranduil immediately froze, noticing Galion's curious stares.
"No, there isn't. Don't worry. I was just wondering...how come you never told me you were a prince? I can keep secrets, if you didn't want anyone else to know, although it's too late now, I guess..." Galion looked at several elflings who were whispering and pointing at Thranduil.
"I didn't think it was such a big deal," Thranduil muttered. "Plus, I want to be like you and all the other elflings. That maybe you might become my friend just because, instead of the fact that I am a prince. I don't- I don't have very many at home." Galion smiled.
"I can be your friend! That is...you like adventure, don't you?" He looked skeptically at Thranduil. Thranduil nodded eagerly. "And cherry pies?" Another eager nod. "Then you are officially my friend, your highness," Galion bowed in an exaggerated manner. Thranduil laughed and poked him.
"Get up! Don't do that....Oh! Maybe we can be normal if we're BOTH princes!" Galion looked at him with wide eyes.
"You can make me a prince?"
"Well...not exactly a REAL one. But we can pretend! You like adventure, don't you?" Thranduil smiled. Galion nodded and pondered.
"Well, since you're the real prince, give me a title."
"A title?" Thranduil looked bewildered.
"You know, Prince of...something," Galion encouraged.
"Oh! Ok. Um...Prince of...oh, everything's occupied!" Thranduil grew frustrated.
"Cherry pies are not occupied," Galion whispered.
"Prince of Cherry Pies?" Thranduil dissolved into a giggle fit. Galion pouted. "Well, think of something better then! As far as I know, being a prince of cherry pies can be a very yummy position."
"All right! Hrm...How about Prince of the Battle Fields, Master of Sword Fighting? I'm sure my father told me story once that had that prince in it. He was very brave," Thranduil looked at Galion. He grinned.
"It sounds like a real title! We can slay dragons and lead troops and kill THOUSANDS of orcs with a single hand!" Galion drew out his sword.
"You are a lot braver than I am!" Thranduil said.
"Pretend, silly! We can be just as old as our fathers," Galion said with a tone of complete assurance and pulled a serious grimace remarkably not unlike the disapproving faces of adult elves. Thranduil laughed and pulled a serious old-elf grimace of his own. "Not bad!" Galion surveyed Thranduil's imitation.
"I tried," Thranduil smiled and shrugged, and began standing on his tiptoes again, looking for Oropher.
"Are you looking for your father?" Galion inquired.
"Yes...he's not here and the tournaments are almost starting! He promised that he would not miss any of it," Thranduil let his shoulders sag a little.
"And he's right here," Oropher came up behind Thranduil. Elrond had excused himself not more than a minute ago, having walked quickly away from an elf maiden he recognized. She had been trying to catch Elrond's attention all year with no intention to desist. Which Oropher found amusing. The two elflings yelped and fell onto their rear ends. He laughed and asked, "Are you two all right?" The two elflings hauled themselves off the grass and nodded mutely. "Would you like to introduce me to this handsome young elf?" The king raised his eyebrows, smiling at Galion. Galion could only blink and stare.
"Oh! Right, father, this is Galion. Galion, this is my father," Thranduil waved his hands between the two elves.
"Well, hello Galion. Pleased to meet you," Oropher bent down and stretched out his hand. Galion didn't move an inch.
"Galion? Galion, are you feeling all right?" Thranduil frowned and waved his hand up and down in front of his friend's mesmerized and frightened face. Galion snapped out of his stunned reverie and stuttered.
"P-pleased to meet you too, your majesty...." Galion looked up at the noble, fair-looking (and rather amused) ruler nervously. He then whispered to Thranduil, "Did I say it right? Is that how I'm supposed to say it?" Thranduil nodded.
"You did fine. Father does not mind so much about formal greetings, except when it comes to me," Thranduil sighed. "I had to take lessons on it."
"And it taught you some very important social graces. That is important. Now, hurry along! Good luck to you both," Oropher gently pushed the both of them towards the large crowd of elf children, massing in the shadow of a large oak tree, nervously anticipating the coming contests.
"Bye, ada!" Thranduil waved at his father and turned around, grabbing Galion's hand and the both walked towards the giant tree. "Were you feeling ok back there?" Thranduil looked concerned. Galion lowered his head.
"I'm sorry. It's just that I've never talked to a king before..."
"Not even Gil-galad?"
"No! Not the High King, no....He's always surrounded by important people. I don't think we're allowed to talk to him. I'm too afraid, anyhow," Galion shook his head.
"He's really nice! I'll bet he'll love to talk to you once he finds out you're a prince too,"
"But I'm not really-"
"Of course you are!" Thranduil carelessly waved his hand. "And go out there and win!"
"Win?" Galion asked, a confused expression in his eyes.
"Yes, win! Your name was just called," Thranduil beamed, looking at the announcer who was facing a crowd of cheerful parents and guests. Galion tensed up and nearly tripped on his way towards the swords ground. Thranduil intently watched his friend. He had a new friend! And a prince, no less.
To be continued...
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How was it? ^^ *points to review button*
To Dragon-of-the-north: :o) Yes, I wanted to point out the love for jewels since I believe it's an important part of his personality and will shape his character as a ruler later on. As for the elf, he'll come up later! He's a nice one, so no real suspense or evil surprise. ^^; Thank you!! You must write on as well. I love your story.
To feanen: :o) Thank you!
To Lutris: :o) Oops, I must've made the chapter kind of confusing. The tall elf is the older brother of the elflings who insulted Thranduil. Both of them have no names yet, but they'll come up later. Galion is the one who befriends Thranduil almost immediately. And thank you for reviewing!! Hope you had a good break. :D
To daw the minstrel: :o) So am I (interested in Thranduil's earlier life, I mean). I wish Tolkien had written a history about him. Thank you!
To Hello...: Elrond has arrived. :o) Thank you!
To ????: Here it is. ^^; Sorry. I'm a slow updater.
To Lirinel: Thank you! ^_^ I'm glad you like it.