THE GRIFFON'S TEARS
Chapter 5 ~ "Coming Home"
"If you two keep that up, your faces will stick together."
Legolas broke the kiss with a laugh. "Gimli, you nuisance! Come here!"
Legolas made a grab for his dwarvin friend. Gimli backed away clumsily, but not quickly enough. Legolas caught his arm and kissed the dwarf soundly on both cheeks in an old fashioned elvish greeting.
"Bleehh!" Gimli said, batting him away.
Alede laughed and Legolas caught her up and lifted her off of her feet, spinning her around in the new morning light.
"By the Valar! You are real!" Legolas lowered her and she slid slowly down the length of his body, giving them both shivers that were more than just excitement. Wrapping his arms around her, Legolas held her close and kissed her once more. "For five years you have been but a whisper in my mind and now you are here and you are warm and solid and I will never let us be separated again."
Alede blinked back tears. "For five years I have dreamed of this moment. I feel as if my heart is going to burst!"
"Come, Melui! Let us go home."
"I am already home," Alede said. "Wherever you are is home."
Gimli groaned loudly and rolled his eyes.
But Legolas only laughed and before the dwarf could protest, grabbed him and lifted him onto Aransûl's back.
"Uhg! Tis like lifting an Olyphant," Legolas complained.
"If you would keep your hands to yourself," Gimli shouted indignantly, "my weight would not trouble you!"
Alede chuckled contentedly as she mounted Faunlend and fell in beside the white stallion. Gimli and Legolas continued to insult each other as they rode and Alede listened to their banter happily.
She had indeed come home.
~ ~ ~
"Come, Master Wizard," Thranduil cried, nudging Radagast's bedroll with his toe. "It is time we completed this journey."
The old man muttered indistinctly and sat up, his hair in wild disarray. His first look was over at his daughter's bedroll, but it was empty, as was the dwarf's. Realizing that it must be later that he thought, Radagast flung back his blanket and got stiffly to his feet.
"Where is Alede?" he asked, looking around. Elves had already pulled down Thranduil's pavilion and were stowing the tightly folded bundles upon the packhorses. Gimli's dwarvin companions were packing the heavy trunk and their supplies onto the backs of the ponies.
"She has gone on ahead," Thranduil said over his shoulder as he brushed grass from his stallion's back. The huge gray had a habit of rolling each morning, something that would have looked ridiculous in a less impressive horse.
"Then we must hurry to catch up with her," Radagast said with some alarm. He'd never gotten used to Alede traveling on her own, though she'd been doing it for almost 400 years.
"We will never catch them," Thranduil replied, swinging himself up on the stallion. "She and the dwarf left shortly after we all retired for bed last night."
"She did?" Radagast said stupidly. "Why did you not stop her?" he asked.
Thranduil turned on his mount, looking at the wizard over his shoulder. "Stop her? Why? Had I been in her position, I would have done the same thing." And with a single word, he sent the stallion into a gallop, leaving Radagast staring after him with an open mouth.
~ ~ ~
As Legolas, Gimli and Alede traveled deeper into Ithilien, Legolas couldn't help pointing out various sights on the way, even though he was interrupting Alede's steady stream of questions.
"There," Legolas cried, pointing to a bristling pine, "That is where Gimli first learned to climb a tree!"
"I did not know you could climb trees," Alede said, looking at the dwarf who sat scowling at Legolas' back.
"Neither did the wild boar that chased him up it," Legolas said with a shout of laughter. "It had quite a puzzled expression on its face."
"If your aim had not been off," Gimli growled, "it would have been dead, instead of enraged by an elvish arrow sticking out of its shoulder!"
"Nay, twas not my aim. You joggled my elbow . . ."
"I most certainly did not!" Gimli said, puffing up to twice his size.
"I have not missed a target in hundreds of years, Master Dwarf!"
"Ha!"
The argument continued for quite some time, long after they had passed the controversial tree. Alede patiently waited for them to settle down. She could not help but be amused by their antics. Simply to hear Legolas' voice again, his real voice, not his mind speaking to hers, was shear bliss to her, even if it was only rude insults to the dwarf.
"Legolas, will you please continue," Alede prompted once the bickering had died down a bit. "You were telling me about the storm that hit your city."
"There is little else to tell, Melui, other than what I communicated with you the following day."
Alede noticed that Legolas did not seem too shy about talking of their 'connection' in front of Gimli, even though sharing song was considered an intimate act by Elves. She took it as a good sign. She liked the Dwarf and had known for a long time that in marrying Legolas, she would be accepting Gimli into their family as well.
"Then you are still convinced that the magic came from Mordor?"
Legolas nodded. He had relayed the details of the battle to her earlier. "The vortex of wind looked the same and I find it impossible to believe that two such phenomena could not be related. No natural hurricane would travel this far inland."
"I wish I knew what it was," Alede frowned. "But this is something I've never encountered before and my father does not hear it."
"Did you hear a strange keening sound as well?" Legolas asked. Though Alede had no answers for him, he found it very reassuring to talk with her about it. He was convinced that between the three of them, there was no problem they could not solve.
"I heard what sounded like someone crying," Alede answered. "As if the wind carried the sound of sobbing."
"Yes, I heard that too," Legolas said quickly. "And this last time, there was a keening noise as well. I am certain that my father told me some tale about an animal that keens, but I cannot remember what it was or how it could relate to this. Did he have no theories?"
"None that he mentioned to me," Alede said cautiously.
Legolas glanced at her, hearing what she did not speak. "You are very brave Alede. I think my father would frighten away most maidens."
Alede chuckled. "He has certainly tried. But I think I am making progress. There are times when I almost think he can tolerate me."
Legolas laughed. "No doubt his 'tolerance' has something to do with why you chose to ride to me in the middle of the night in your nightdress," Legolas said with a mischievous tilt of his eyebrows.
"Well," Alede hesitated. "I did not wish to wake anyone and I did not make up my mind until we were all in our bedrolls."
"And sleeping soundly," Gimli added with a mock glare at her that ended in a wink when she looked contrite.
"Given a chance, I think Father will come to appreciate you," Legolas predicted. "He cannot resist an intelligent mind."
"Ha! When I am with him, I feel as dense as a piece of wood," Alede declared.
"Humph!" Gimli snorted. "If you had allowed me to teach him some manners . . ."
"Gimli?" Alede interrupted hastily. She wasn't sure how Legolas would react to news of the altercation with Thranduil. "How long do you think it will take your people to reach us? I am very eager to give Legolas his gifts."
"Ah yes," Legolas said, accepting the change of subject for the moment, "the thing that is shorter than my bow, yet has a longer reach."
"Longer reach . . ?" Alede glanced at Gimli inquisitively. The dwarf gave her a smug wink in return. "That is good, Gimli. I had no idea you were so adept at riddles."
"Inspiration does occasionally strike me," Gimli said with mock humility.
"I will strike you if you do not cease teasing me about it," Legolas growled.
That prompted another round of bickering and Alede never did learn how soon Gimli thought his dwarves would catch up to them.
~ ~ ~
"Welcome to Eryn Culhallas, Lady Alede," Legolas said, unable to hide the pride and excitement in his voice.
Alede's reaction was everything he could have hoped for. She sat upon her horse, open mouthed, gazing with astonishment and pleasure up into the canopy of trees. The heavily leafed oaks were shorter, only seventy-five feet or so and hid the Culhalla with their greenery. But every now and then, the canopy would part and the fiery red gold leaves of the Culhallas would appear, practically touching the sky with their crowns.
"It is breathtaking," Alede whispered. Then her gaze shifted and she moved Faunlend ahead a little, craning her neck to see better. "Legolas," she turned back to him, "are those your dwellings that I see?"
She nodded toward one of the outlying pod homes.
Legolas nodded. "They are larger than they appear . . ."
"I do not doubt it," Alede said, still gazing up as they moved forward. "I remember your fondness for architecture and Elves are exceedingly clever carpenters."
Behind Legolas, Gimli groaned. This mutual admiration society that they had going on was going to make him ill. Or at least it would if he was not secretly so pleased for Legolas.
They began to see people now and Alede pulled uncomfortably at her nightdress. Legolas chuckled.
"Do not be uneasy, Melui. My people will say nothing and I have garments ready for you in your home."
She flashed a smile at him. "My thanks, though I am not so worried about what they might say, but more what they might think."
"They will think that you are a woman of impulsiveness until they get to know you," Legolas teased. "And then they will realize that you are a font of practicality."
She gave him another grin, but once more her gaze was drawn back up to the trees. "Is your entire city in the trees?" she asked in amazement.
"Aye. I must admit that I borrowed heavily from what we saw in Lothlorien, though our dwellings are shaped differently. But yes, the city is in the trees."
"Though it is not nearly as fair as the city of the white lady," Gimli said, "for Lothlorien had a quality unlike anything else on Middle Earth."
"Then you are fortunate to have seen it, Master Dwarf," Alede replied. "In all my years, I never did penetrate the golden wood."
They continued into the heart of Eryn Culhallas and stopped before a large building made of polished wood. It gleamed on the shadowed forest floor and climbed high up into the oaks. Alede could see balconies and chimneys rising all around it.
"This is the Great Hall," Legolas said, dismounting. "I built it upon the ground so that Faramir and Aragorn might feel more at ease and our large gatherings are held inside. We will leave our horses here," he said, even as the master of the horses came forward and bowed to his prince.
Alede thanked the Elf and introduced him to Faunlend, as was proper in Elvin households. The Elf's eyes swept momentarily over Alede's inappropriate garments, but he said nothing and turned away with Faunlend following wearily behind him.
"Come," Legolas said, taking her hand. "Let me show you your home and we will find you something to eat and some new clothing."
"I am too excited to eat," Alede said, giving his hand a happy squeeze, "but I will welcome a wash and some clothes."
"Humph!" Gimli snorted, "I will welcome some food."
"I will have it sent to you, Gimli," Legolas said, "If you think you will stay awake long enough to eat it, that is."
Gimli gave the Elf a withering glance and stomped away from them toward a Culhalla trunk larger than any of the others. At its foot was a tiny, squat house, made entirely of stone with a brightly painted door and a thatched roof. Gimli pushed the door open and disappeared inside.
Legolas shook his head, "Forgive him, Alede. He is fatigued and . . ."
"And dwarves become irritable when they are tired," she finished, smiling up at him. "You need not apologize for your friend, Legolas. I am well acquainted with the ways of dwarves and I love him too."
"Do you?" Legolas asked with a mischievous smile. "Should I be jealous?"
Alede nodded seriously, "Yes. He even purposed to me when we first met upon the road."
Legolas threw back his head and laughed. "I see that I have competition. I must speak with him when he has had some sleep then!"
Alede joined his laughter, though it faded when they drew close to the foot of the enormous Culhalla.
"By the Valar, Legolas! It is huge!"
Even Gimli's house, now that she was seeing it up close was far larger than she had thought. Obviously it would comfortably house several dwarves. But it looked a mere speck when compared to the smooth trunk behind it.
The Culhalla rose over a hundred feet into the air, stretching for the heavens, its gray bark smooth and straight. Around its girth a staircase spiraled up it, the rails draped with flowering vines as if the great tree wore a decorative garland.
Alede placed her hand upon one of the rails, as Legolas turned and directed servants to see about bringing food to Gimli. She noticed that the rail was wrapped beneath the vines in a woven plant fiber. Picking at it curiously, she found something smooth underneath and made of copper . . .
"Ouch!" Alede yelped. Legolas turned to her immediately. "It is hot! It burned me," she said in surprise.
"Ah . . ." Legolas' eyes followed her gaze as he gently took her hand. "I see that you have found Gimli's invention."
"Invention?"
"Hmm . . . this does not appear too badly burned. Does it pain you?" Legolas asked, inspecting her hand. "I will have my healer bring you herbs . . ."
"Nay," Alede said. "It is fine. I was more surprised than anything. Tell me about this invention."
"I will do better," Legolas said with a grin of excitement, pulling her with him. "I will show you."
Alede was winded by the time they were only half way up the tree. Fortunately, Legolas stopped, pointing out the view, which was well worth seeing.
"See over there?" he pointed. "This area is dotted with natural hot springs and thermal caves. Gimli and his people made copper piping that carries the steam. We've concealed it beneath the wrapping to keep it warm . . ."
There followed a bewildering explanation of how the steam and the hot water from the springs rose up the spiral staircases and entered the dwellings. Alede was able to only follow about half of it, but it sounded terribly clever.
"So. . ." she said cautiously, "if I'm following you correctly, you're saying that steam heats the insides of the homes and provides hot running water as well."
"Yes, in pipes behind the walls. There are gutters and small cisterns on the roofs which supply cold water. We have no lack of rain here," Legolas said enthusiastically. "Come!"
He took Alede's hand again and she laughed as she tried to keep up with him. Legolas would have bounded up the steps if not for her.
"Oh . . ." Alede breathed a startled gasp when they reached the wide landing in front of Legolas' home.
The dwelling was impossible to describe. It was much larger than it appeared from below and gently curved. It was made of the silvery gray wood of the Culhalla and intricately carved. The steeply pitched rooftop was adorned with scrolls and filigree and vines carved from wood wove their delicate tendrils about the lovely arched door.
Legolas paused, letting Alede take her time in examining every detail.
"Its beautiful," she said finally, giving Legolas a bemused smile. In truth, she thought that beautiful hardly described it. That she would actually be living here with Legolas . . . a thrill of excitement ran through her belly, like a flight of butterflies suddenly taking wing.
With a small smile, Legolas pushed the door open and gestured for her to go inside.
Again, Alede took her time. The front room, known in Elvin households as the 'visiting room' was large and spacious. There were enough divans and plump chairs for several people and Alede suspected that Legolas often used the room for meetings with his counselors. Small panels near the floor could be opened to expose the copper piping from which steady warmth emanated.
The visiting room led into a study with a large desk at its center. Alede recognized the desk. She had seen it in Thranduil's study years ago.
"Is this . . ."
Legolas grinned. "Yes. Father gave it to me. When I was a child, I used to empty the drawers and pigeonholes onto the floor and create a grand mess. Mother would find me and scold me while trying very hard not laugh. Then she and I would put it all back together. Father would make a big commotion about how his desk kept getting rearranged. He claimed that gremlins were to blame though of course he knew it was me."
Alede chuckled, seeing yet another facet to the King's complex personality.
"How ever did you get it up all those steps?" she asked.
"With ropes, pulleys, prayers and many an impolite comment."
Alede laughed and moved around the room. There were several bookcases and just as many windows. The room was bathed in the mid day light and they were high enough in the canopy that rays of sunlight danced in the southern windows. There were paintings and sketches on the walls as well and Alede went to one of them to examine it.
"I did not know you were so skilled," she said in amazement, looking at a blueprint of the Great Hall.
"I have seen much architecture in my travels," Legolas said, laying a gentle, companionable hand on the small of her back. "It has given me much pleasure to build my own designs. Though none," he said, giving her a look that seemed to make her knees go week, "has given me as much pleasure as what I am about to show you."
Alede raised an inquisitive brow, but Legolas only took her hand again, pulling her down a long hallway that curved around the tree trunk. They passed a room that was obviously Legolas' bedchamber. Alede got only a glimpse of a tall curtained bed and dark polished furniture, before Legolas led her out onto a slat bridge. It crossed to another dwelling, similar to his, though not quit as large.
The bridge gave Alede the jitters at first, especially since the wind chose to kick up at that moment, sending both homes to swaying. But Legolas walked across it with total unconcern and so she followed him.
The landing had another long staircase spiraling down from it, but instead of vines carved about the doorway, there were roses instead. Alede ran an appreciative finger over them, before she noticed that Legolas had stepped back rather nervously and gestured for her to open the door.
"Is this mine?" she asked breathlessly and Legolas nodded solemnly.
The visiting room was smaller than Legolas', but more cozy and intimate because of it. The walls had been white washed and the room glowed with light. Comfortable looking chairs stood next to a divan piled with soft pillows, flowers in pots stood in the window embrasures. Another door opposite led into a library, lined with bookshelves. Some of the shelves were already filled and Alede walked to them eagerly and opened them.
The books were carefully copied versions of medical texts from Mirkwood. Turning around again, with a book still clutched to her breast, she watched as Legolas opened a large chest standing against the wall.
The doors opened to reveal shelves with colored bottles neatly sitting upon them. Alede set the book down and picked up a small bottle made of brown glass. It was empty but had a good waxed lid on it.
"For your medicines," Legolas said rather shyly. "I know that some of them do not react well to light, hence the colored glass. I hope I made them the right size . . ."
"You made them?" Alede asked.
Legolas nodded. "I even have the burned fingers to prove it. Glass blowing is a fine skill which I am only beginning to master. I also carved the chest. I wanted to give you something I had made with my own hands . . ."
He never finished the sentence. With a cry of joy, Alede flung her arms around his neck, kissing him passionately. Legolas was never sure later how he managed it, but somehow they found themselves on the divan in the other room, with Alede on his lap, his fingers in her hair and his mouth on hers.
Everything else was forgotten and it was a long time before they broke apart.
~ ~ ~
Legolas bounded down the steps two at a time. If the rail had not been covered with vines, he would have slid down it as he had when he was a child in his Father's hall. As it was, he settled for landing with a soft thump beside Mändel, startling the steward slightly.
"Your Highness," Mändel said with a disapproving sniff. He hated it when Legolas did not act with solemn dignity.
Legolas suppressed a smile. Mändel's attitude amused him and the temptation to plague the serious Elf was a constant battle for him. But Mändel was an excellent steward and loyal to a fault.
"Did the honor guard set out this morning, as I instructed?" Legolas asked, though he asked the question more out of a desire to make conversation that for the need to know. Of course the guard had gone out as ordered.
"Yes, my lord. They should be meeting up with your Father's party even as we speak. I must admit, however, that I expected your lady to be traveling with them. Had I known she would come ahead, I would have sent out . . ."
Legolas chuckled, interrupting him. "I do not think that anyone knew Lady Alede would come ahead of the party, not even she, until the last minute. Ah . . ." he said looking up, "here she is now."
~ ~ ~
Alede stepped out onto the landing in front of Legolas' home and looked down. She could easily spot his fair hair in the shadowy darkness at the bottom of the stair.
After they had given each other a long and proper greeting on the divan, Legolas had led her to her bedchamber.
"I will leave you here," he had said, "for I do not trust myself to enter. If I do, you will not be rid of me anytime soon."
"I have no desire to be rid of you," Alede had answered, a blush of both desire and embarrassment creeping up her face. They had stood for several moments breathlessly remembering their kisses and caresses.
Legolas had finally broken the tension by throwing up his hands and saying, "Ai! You will be the death of me, woman!" He had left her with a teasing grin and Alede had turned to explore her new room.
The bedchamber was an airy room, the midday sun streamed in through the gauzy curtains upon the windows. Glass doors led out to a balcony and there were two large wardrobes opposite the canopied bed.
As eager as Alede was to explore her new home, she was more eager to be with Legolas. Walked into the bathing chamber, she had shed her dusty nightdress. Alede had experimented with the small spigots above the basin and discovered to her delight that one produced hot water and another cold. She had given herself a quick wash with a cloth and then gone out to look in the wardrobes.
One was filled with fine silken gowns of the most exquisite workmanship. The other contained more practical clothing, even including breeches and tunics.
As Alede stood now, upon the landing, she smoothed the forest green kirtle she had finally chosen. It was made of a good sturdy linen and the skirt was wide enough that she would have no trouble walking or riding in it. A pale green under dress complimented it and she wore a pair of doeskin boots beneath. These were practical clothes appropriate for the tour that Legolas had promised her, yet attractive enough that she would not shame him while meeting his people.
She saw him and another Elf looking up at her and could not help the smile that brightened her face as she hurried down the steps. But she also remembered the words that Thranduil had drilled into her head while on the journey here. She might have resented it at the time since there was nothing wrong with her manners, yet it would not hurt to be overly formal with Legolas' people.
When she reached the bottom of the steps, slightly breathless, though not as breathless as she had been when she'd climbed them, she gave Legolas a slight nod of her head.
"My lord," she said by way of greeting.
Legolas smiled at her, his eyes twinkling mischievously, before introducing her to his steward.
Alede gave Mändel a deep curtsy and the formal Elvin greeting.
"Welcome to Eryn Culhallas, Lady Alede," the steward replied with a bow.
"Thank you."
~ ~ ~
Legolas watched as Alede conversed with his steward. He was mildly surprised to see how nervous she was, though she was fighting to not show it. It hadn't occurred to him that she would be nervous about meeting his people. But obviously she was. That and her formal greeting a moment ago made him wonder if this was his father's doing. It would be just like Thranduil to criticize her so much that she began to doubt herself.
Once they had left Mändel, Legolas slipped her hand through his arm.
"Alede . . . my people will love you for the same reasons that I do. You need not fear meeting them."
"I . . ." she looked up, embarrassment showing in her face. "I only wish to make a good first impression on them."
"You will. But I also wish for them to know the real you," he said, lifting her chin with a gentle finger when she would have looked away. "You are woman of warmth and compassion, the most admirable of all qualities. You need not try to hide it behind stiff formality."
"It is just that . . ." Alede paused, obviously searching for the correct words. "I have never really considered your status before. I mean, of course I knew that you were royalty, but for whatever reason it has never really meant that much to me. I . . ." she sighed in frustration. "I am saying this badly."
"Nay," Legolas replied with a squeeze of her hand. "I am well aware that my status has never been important to you. It is one of the many things that I love about you."
She looked up at him surprised and he continued.
"Alede, even among Elves there is much political maneuvering. I dare to say that it is more subtle and less vicious than the political maneuvering of men, but still it exists. I cannot tell you the number of times I have been examined by various women as if I were no more than horse flesh which they considered bartering for."
Alede's eyes opened wide. "Really?"
He nodded as he led her to the stables and then Alede giggled.
"And yet what a handsome bit of horse flesh you are," she said with a mischievous laugh. "Who are these women? Perhaps I should see what they would be willing to bargain for you."
"The only bargaining you will be doing is over my knee if you do not behave," Legolas said, giving her a swat on the bottom.
Alede gave a squeak of surprise and tried to pull away from him. They tussled for a moment until Legolas ended it by pulling her in for an affectionate hug.
"Do you know how much joy you bring me, Alede?" he said, his lips pressed against her hair.
"Perhaps as much as you bring me," she answered with a smile.
He nodded and kissed her lightly, since there were people near by and then led her into the stable where he received a surprise.
"Hmm . . . I intended to ask Aransûl to take us on our tour, but he seems rather occupied." They both looked up at the white stallion who had left his own stall and was standing in Faunlend's, shielding the mare from their view rather protectively. He also laid back his ears for just a moment, very uncharacteristic behavior in an elvish horse.
"Oh, so that is the way of it," Legolas said with a laugh, approaching Aransûl despite the ears. The stallion flicked his ears again and stomped, but could not resist the outstretched hand of his elf for more than a moment. Suddenly looking rather sheepish, he ambled over to Legolas and let him stroke his muzzle.
Faunlend poked her head over Aransûl's back and pricked her ears at Alede, the look of smug satisfaction quite evident on her equine face.
"I see that you two have become reacquainted," Legolas said.
"Yes, they became rather well acquainted while they were in Rivendell," Alede said disgustedly. "While you and I were at the mercy of the Faerie Queen, these two were frolicking in the meadows."
"Indeed?" Legolas asked with a laugh.
Alede nodded. "A couple of months after you left, I realized that Faunlend was with foal. A very nice colt they produced."
"You said nothing of it in your letters," Legolas said.
Alede grinned up at him mischievously. "Elrohir told me that he's wanted a horse from the house of Oropher for years. I gave the colt to him. He intends to put him to stud to increase the bloodlines of their horses."
"Ha! Just as I always suspected!" Legolas crowed. "The horses of the house of Elrond have always been inferior."
Alede chuckled. "Elrohir says that the next time you and he meet, the outcome of your habitual race will be different."
"He is still sore that I have beaten him every time," Legolas chuckled.
"I hope you don't mind," Alede said, turning serious again. "But I felt that I should give Elrohir and Elladan something in return for their hospitality."
"They are indeed generous hosts, but then you and your father labored long and hard in Rivendell. The debt goes both ways."
She shook her head, "Nay, they owe us nothing for our magic. It is the purpose of the Maiar to serve the people of Middle Earth. It is why my father and the other were sent here. But I meant for their hospitality all of these years. Elladan and Elrohir practically raised me, you know. At least when I was not studying with Elrond, they did."
Legolas nodded sagely. "I have been intending to speak with them about that. No doubt the few character flaws which you possess are their fault."
"Character flaws?" Alede asked haughtily, suppressing a grin. "And what character flaws might these be, my Lord?"
"This alarming propensity you've developed for riding across Gondor in your nightdress . . ."
Legolas ducked as Alede playfully attempted to box his ears. Behind them, Aransûl went back to nuzzling Faunlend's neck, knowing that it would be some time before he was required to carry them anywhere.
~ ~ ~
The tour was everything that both of them could have wished for. Alede was sensitive to the tragedy that had befallen the grape crop and eager to offer ideas and ask questions. She marveled at the vast lavender fields that pastured Eryn Culhallas' bees and produced their honey. She laughed over the antics of the goats that produced the milk for cheese and cream.
All the while she kept her arms wrapped about Legolas' slender waist, pressing close to him, yet not clinging and Legolas wondered why he had not seen how much he loved her years and years ago. She was exactly what he wanted in a companion, exactly what he needed. Resting a warm hand over hers, they rode on.
~ ~ ~
They returned to the city in the late afternoon. Alede was yawning and ready for a nap. Legolas was eager to be there when his father arrived.
"Do you need anything?" Legolas asked as he saw her into her rooms.
Alede smothered another yawn. "Will you have someone wake me in a little while?"
"Of course," he said, touching her cheek softly. "Rest well."
Alede turned around after he'd closed the door and hugged herself as she looked around her new home. She still couldn't believe it!
Wandering into her bedchamber, Alede was about to lie down on the bed, but movement on the balcony caught her eye. Stepping out the door, she found an enormous basket hanging just off of the balcony. It was nearly the same size as her bed. Going to the rail for a better look, Alede saw that the rail itself had a gate in it and a small platform led to the basket. Intrigued, she opened it and stepped out, catching hold of one of the ropes that held the basket.
"It is a bed," she whispered in amazement. True enough, the basket contained a thick mattress covered by a heavy oilcloth wrapper to protect it from the elements. Gingerly, Alede stepped into the basket, setting it to swinging. She dropped to her knees, the motion feeling just a little alarming. But as she peeked over the sides, down at the ground nearly a hundred feet below, she found that she actually felt rather snug. The walls of the basket were high enough to make it cozy and secure.
Pulling back the oilcloth, Alede found warm soft blankets beneath. Snuggling under them, she had just enough time to roll over and admire the brilliant blue sky twinkling through the leaves of the Culhalla, before her eyelids drooped and she was asleep.
~ ~ ~
Legolas stood at the end of a beribboned pathway, wearing his finest clothes and with his entire court assembled around him. Grooms rushed forward to take weary horses from the new arrivals.
"Welcome to Eryn Culhallas, Father." He stepped forward into Thranduil's embrace and the King hugged him so fiercely, Legolas felt as if his ribs were creaking.
"Thank you, my son." Thranduil held him for a moment longer than necessary and when they stepped back from each other, the King gave him piercing look. "You are well, I trust?"
"I am well, Father," Legolas answered, recognizing his father's worry. "But let us not talk of unpleasantness until later. All is well and for now I merely wish to enjoy your company. It has been too long, Father."
"Aye, Son, that it has. At least I had an interesting traveling companion for much of the journey. I trust your bride made it safely here?" he asked with an arched eyebrow. "I suppose it is too much to hope that the dwarf fell off somewhere during her midnight journey?"
Legolas returned his father's look. "I am pleased to say that both Alede and Gimli arrived this morning in excellent health."
Deliberately turning away from his father, Legolas greeted Radagast affectionately. "I have been most eager to see you again, Lord Radagast."
The old wizard hugged him enthusiastically. "As I have you, Legolas. I am looking forward to knowing you and your people better."
"And Alede has spoken of no one else for five years," Cyrus added drolly, stepping forward to give Legolas a stiff bow. "I look forward to foisting her off on you, so that we all might get some peace."
Legolas chuckled and welcomed the irritable old wizard before turning back to Radagast. "Alede is resting at the moment otherwise she would be here to greet you." Raising his voice, he addressed the entire party. "Tonight we will feast in honor of your coming," Legolas told them, "and celebrate my betrothal to Lady Alede. I invite you to relax until this evening and enjoy all the hospitality that my kingdom can give you."
Servants escorted Radagast and Cyrus to their guest quarters in the Great Hall, while Legolas exchanged a few words with Gimli's companions before they stumped off to the small stone house.
"Do you wish to see your rooms, Father?" Legolas asked, turning back to Thranduil.
"Nay," said the King, looking about with a shrewd eye. "I wish to see what my youngest son has been doing all these years in his southern realm.
Legolas grinned, knowing that there was a challenge ahead of him and called for fresh horses to be brought to them.
~ ~ ~
"My Lady?" a soft voice called.
Alede swam up out of the soft cloud of sleep and blinked at the figure holding a flickering candle. For a moment she could not remember where she was. Then sweet memory filled her and she sat up in her cozy nest.
"My Lady," the she-Elf called, "His Highness sent me to wake you. The celebration begins in an hour."
"An hour!?" Alede squeaked in alarm. "I cannot possibly be ready in an hour!" She leaped from the basket so energetically it set the whole structure to rocking and banging against the rail.
~ ~ ~
A/N: Well, was this too much mush and domestic bliss for anyone? Nobody became nauseous I hope. Lol :D Coming up in chapter 6 we'll see if Alede makes it to the celebration on time. Thranduil will have a few choice words and don't forget about the witch in Mordor. Legolas lovers get ready; we'll finally get to see him in all his royal splendor, coming up in "The King of Culhallas Wood."
Special thanks to Irena who has caught some of my ridiculous spelling mistakes. I am so sorry! It's hard to believe that I have a college education, isn't it? lol! You now have a tiny glimmer of what I put Thecla through! :D
Much of the inspiration for the houses in Eryn Culhallas came from James Gurney's "Dinotopia" (the books, not the movie). If you have access to the books, take a look at Treetown (pg. 100 to 101) in "Dinotopia" and Bonabba (pg. 118 to 119) in "The World Beneath" and you'll get an idea of what Eryn Culhallas looks like.
*** Original Character List ***
Alede the Green - Witch, healer and wizard. She is daughter of Radagast the Brown. After the death of her mother, she was raised in Rivendell for a while and learned healing skills from Elrond. She also developed a terrible crush on Elrohir, which he has gently teased her about for centuries. She also spent some time learning the wizarding craft at Orthanc under the tutelage of Saruman. Because she felt her healer's calling was more important, and because she considered herself a poor wizardess, Alede never completed her training at Orthanc.
Cyrus the Blue - The forth Maia to be sent to Middle Earth and friend to Radagast the Brown
Lomomir - Brother to King Thranduil of Mirkwood and a healer. He has spent the last many years in Rivendell studying with Alede and reading from Elrond's many books and journals.
Maladok the Red - The fifth Maia sent to Middle Earth. After a disastrous encounter with Saruman, Maladok has become a bit of a "black sheep" in the wizarding world.
Zarraweth - A young human witch with more plans and beauty than is good for her.
Malina - A healer and witch of the Angmar Mountains. She was married to Radagast the Brown and was Alede's mother. She was killed by a mob of religious fanatics who thought her witchcraft had brought plague to a village when instead she had been trying to cure it. Alede was only sixteen when Malina was killed.
Mändel - Legolas' steward. He originally served under Thranduil in Mirkwood in a lesser position.
Galomir - Ithilien's healer.
Girwyn - A general in Legolas' army. He is in charge of Ithilien's security.
Chapter 5 ~ "Coming Home"
"If you two keep that up, your faces will stick together."
Legolas broke the kiss with a laugh. "Gimli, you nuisance! Come here!"
Legolas made a grab for his dwarvin friend. Gimli backed away clumsily, but not quickly enough. Legolas caught his arm and kissed the dwarf soundly on both cheeks in an old fashioned elvish greeting.
"Bleehh!" Gimli said, batting him away.
Alede laughed and Legolas caught her up and lifted her off of her feet, spinning her around in the new morning light.
"By the Valar! You are real!" Legolas lowered her and she slid slowly down the length of his body, giving them both shivers that were more than just excitement. Wrapping his arms around her, Legolas held her close and kissed her once more. "For five years you have been but a whisper in my mind and now you are here and you are warm and solid and I will never let us be separated again."
Alede blinked back tears. "For five years I have dreamed of this moment. I feel as if my heart is going to burst!"
"Come, Melui! Let us go home."
"I am already home," Alede said. "Wherever you are is home."
Gimli groaned loudly and rolled his eyes.
But Legolas only laughed and before the dwarf could protest, grabbed him and lifted him onto Aransûl's back.
"Uhg! Tis like lifting an Olyphant," Legolas complained.
"If you would keep your hands to yourself," Gimli shouted indignantly, "my weight would not trouble you!"
Alede chuckled contentedly as she mounted Faunlend and fell in beside the white stallion. Gimli and Legolas continued to insult each other as they rode and Alede listened to their banter happily.
She had indeed come home.
~ ~ ~
"Come, Master Wizard," Thranduil cried, nudging Radagast's bedroll with his toe. "It is time we completed this journey."
The old man muttered indistinctly and sat up, his hair in wild disarray. His first look was over at his daughter's bedroll, but it was empty, as was the dwarf's. Realizing that it must be later that he thought, Radagast flung back his blanket and got stiffly to his feet.
"Where is Alede?" he asked, looking around. Elves had already pulled down Thranduil's pavilion and were stowing the tightly folded bundles upon the packhorses. Gimli's dwarvin companions were packing the heavy trunk and their supplies onto the backs of the ponies.
"She has gone on ahead," Thranduil said over his shoulder as he brushed grass from his stallion's back. The huge gray had a habit of rolling each morning, something that would have looked ridiculous in a less impressive horse.
"Then we must hurry to catch up with her," Radagast said with some alarm. He'd never gotten used to Alede traveling on her own, though she'd been doing it for almost 400 years.
"We will never catch them," Thranduil replied, swinging himself up on the stallion. "She and the dwarf left shortly after we all retired for bed last night."
"She did?" Radagast said stupidly. "Why did you not stop her?" he asked.
Thranduil turned on his mount, looking at the wizard over his shoulder. "Stop her? Why? Had I been in her position, I would have done the same thing." And with a single word, he sent the stallion into a gallop, leaving Radagast staring after him with an open mouth.
~ ~ ~
As Legolas, Gimli and Alede traveled deeper into Ithilien, Legolas couldn't help pointing out various sights on the way, even though he was interrupting Alede's steady stream of questions.
"There," Legolas cried, pointing to a bristling pine, "That is where Gimli first learned to climb a tree!"
"I did not know you could climb trees," Alede said, looking at the dwarf who sat scowling at Legolas' back.
"Neither did the wild boar that chased him up it," Legolas said with a shout of laughter. "It had quite a puzzled expression on its face."
"If your aim had not been off," Gimli growled, "it would have been dead, instead of enraged by an elvish arrow sticking out of its shoulder!"
"Nay, twas not my aim. You joggled my elbow . . ."
"I most certainly did not!" Gimli said, puffing up to twice his size.
"I have not missed a target in hundreds of years, Master Dwarf!"
"Ha!"
The argument continued for quite some time, long after they had passed the controversial tree. Alede patiently waited for them to settle down. She could not help but be amused by their antics. Simply to hear Legolas' voice again, his real voice, not his mind speaking to hers, was shear bliss to her, even if it was only rude insults to the dwarf.
"Legolas, will you please continue," Alede prompted once the bickering had died down a bit. "You were telling me about the storm that hit your city."
"There is little else to tell, Melui, other than what I communicated with you the following day."
Alede noticed that Legolas did not seem too shy about talking of their 'connection' in front of Gimli, even though sharing song was considered an intimate act by Elves. She took it as a good sign. She liked the Dwarf and had known for a long time that in marrying Legolas, she would be accepting Gimli into their family as well.
"Then you are still convinced that the magic came from Mordor?"
Legolas nodded. He had relayed the details of the battle to her earlier. "The vortex of wind looked the same and I find it impossible to believe that two such phenomena could not be related. No natural hurricane would travel this far inland."
"I wish I knew what it was," Alede frowned. "But this is something I've never encountered before and my father does not hear it."
"Did you hear a strange keening sound as well?" Legolas asked. Though Alede had no answers for him, he found it very reassuring to talk with her about it. He was convinced that between the three of them, there was no problem they could not solve.
"I heard what sounded like someone crying," Alede answered. "As if the wind carried the sound of sobbing."
"Yes, I heard that too," Legolas said quickly. "And this last time, there was a keening noise as well. I am certain that my father told me some tale about an animal that keens, but I cannot remember what it was or how it could relate to this. Did he have no theories?"
"None that he mentioned to me," Alede said cautiously.
Legolas glanced at her, hearing what she did not speak. "You are very brave Alede. I think my father would frighten away most maidens."
Alede chuckled. "He has certainly tried. But I think I am making progress. There are times when I almost think he can tolerate me."
Legolas laughed. "No doubt his 'tolerance' has something to do with why you chose to ride to me in the middle of the night in your nightdress," Legolas said with a mischievous tilt of his eyebrows.
"Well," Alede hesitated. "I did not wish to wake anyone and I did not make up my mind until we were all in our bedrolls."
"And sleeping soundly," Gimli added with a mock glare at her that ended in a wink when she looked contrite.
"Given a chance, I think Father will come to appreciate you," Legolas predicted. "He cannot resist an intelligent mind."
"Ha! When I am with him, I feel as dense as a piece of wood," Alede declared.
"Humph!" Gimli snorted. "If you had allowed me to teach him some manners . . ."
"Gimli?" Alede interrupted hastily. She wasn't sure how Legolas would react to news of the altercation with Thranduil. "How long do you think it will take your people to reach us? I am very eager to give Legolas his gifts."
"Ah yes," Legolas said, accepting the change of subject for the moment, "the thing that is shorter than my bow, yet has a longer reach."
"Longer reach . . ?" Alede glanced at Gimli inquisitively. The dwarf gave her a smug wink in return. "That is good, Gimli. I had no idea you were so adept at riddles."
"Inspiration does occasionally strike me," Gimli said with mock humility.
"I will strike you if you do not cease teasing me about it," Legolas growled.
That prompted another round of bickering and Alede never did learn how soon Gimli thought his dwarves would catch up to them.
~ ~ ~
"Welcome to Eryn Culhallas, Lady Alede," Legolas said, unable to hide the pride and excitement in his voice.
Alede's reaction was everything he could have hoped for. She sat upon her horse, open mouthed, gazing with astonishment and pleasure up into the canopy of trees. The heavily leafed oaks were shorter, only seventy-five feet or so and hid the Culhalla with their greenery. But every now and then, the canopy would part and the fiery red gold leaves of the Culhallas would appear, practically touching the sky with their crowns.
"It is breathtaking," Alede whispered. Then her gaze shifted and she moved Faunlend ahead a little, craning her neck to see better. "Legolas," she turned back to him, "are those your dwellings that I see?"
She nodded toward one of the outlying pod homes.
Legolas nodded. "They are larger than they appear . . ."
"I do not doubt it," Alede said, still gazing up as they moved forward. "I remember your fondness for architecture and Elves are exceedingly clever carpenters."
Behind Legolas, Gimli groaned. This mutual admiration society that they had going on was going to make him ill. Or at least it would if he was not secretly so pleased for Legolas.
They began to see people now and Alede pulled uncomfortably at her nightdress. Legolas chuckled.
"Do not be uneasy, Melui. My people will say nothing and I have garments ready for you in your home."
She flashed a smile at him. "My thanks, though I am not so worried about what they might say, but more what they might think."
"They will think that you are a woman of impulsiveness until they get to know you," Legolas teased. "And then they will realize that you are a font of practicality."
She gave him another grin, but once more her gaze was drawn back up to the trees. "Is your entire city in the trees?" she asked in amazement.
"Aye. I must admit that I borrowed heavily from what we saw in Lothlorien, though our dwellings are shaped differently. But yes, the city is in the trees."
"Though it is not nearly as fair as the city of the white lady," Gimli said, "for Lothlorien had a quality unlike anything else on Middle Earth."
"Then you are fortunate to have seen it, Master Dwarf," Alede replied. "In all my years, I never did penetrate the golden wood."
They continued into the heart of Eryn Culhallas and stopped before a large building made of polished wood. It gleamed on the shadowed forest floor and climbed high up into the oaks. Alede could see balconies and chimneys rising all around it.
"This is the Great Hall," Legolas said, dismounting. "I built it upon the ground so that Faramir and Aragorn might feel more at ease and our large gatherings are held inside. We will leave our horses here," he said, even as the master of the horses came forward and bowed to his prince.
Alede thanked the Elf and introduced him to Faunlend, as was proper in Elvin households. The Elf's eyes swept momentarily over Alede's inappropriate garments, but he said nothing and turned away with Faunlend following wearily behind him.
"Come," Legolas said, taking her hand. "Let me show you your home and we will find you something to eat and some new clothing."
"I am too excited to eat," Alede said, giving his hand a happy squeeze, "but I will welcome a wash and some clothes."
"Humph!" Gimli snorted, "I will welcome some food."
"I will have it sent to you, Gimli," Legolas said, "If you think you will stay awake long enough to eat it, that is."
Gimli gave the Elf a withering glance and stomped away from them toward a Culhalla trunk larger than any of the others. At its foot was a tiny, squat house, made entirely of stone with a brightly painted door and a thatched roof. Gimli pushed the door open and disappeared inside.
Legolas shook his head, "Forgive him, Alede. He is fatigued and . . ."
"And dwarves become irritable when they are tired," she finished, smiling up at him. "You need not apologize for your friend, Legolas. I am well acquainted with the ways of dwarves and I love him too."
"Do you?" Legolas asked with a mischievous smile. "Should I be jealous?"
Alede nodded seriously, "Yes. He even purposed to me when we first met upon the road."
Legolas threw back his head and laughed. "I see that I have competition. I must speak with him when he has had some sleep then!"
Alede joined his laughter, though it faded when they drew close to the foot of the enormous Culhalla.
"By the Valar, Legolas! It is huge!"
Even Gimli's house, now that she was seeing it up close was far larger than she had thought. Obviously it would comfortably house several dwarves. But it looked a mere speck when compared to the smooth trunk behind it.
The Culhalla rose over a hundred feet into the air, stretching for the heavens, its gray bark smooth and straight. Around its girth a staircase spiraled up it, the rails draped with flowering vines as if the great tree wore a decorative garland.
Alede placed her hand upon one of the rails, as Legolas turned and directed servants to see about bringing food to Gimli. She noticed that the rail was wrapped beneath the vines in a woven plant fiber. Picking at it curiously, she found something smooth underneath and made of copper . . .
"Ouch!" Alede yelped. Legolas turned to her immediately. "It is hot! It burned me," she said in surprise.
"Ah . . ." Legolas' eyes followed her gaze as he gently took her hand. "I see that you have found Gimli's invention."
"Invention?"
"Hmm . . . this does not appear too badly burned. Does it pain you?" Legolas asked, inspecting her hand. "I will have my healer bring you herbs . . ."
"Nay," Alede said. "It is fine. I was more surprised than anything. Tell me about this invention."
"I will do better," Legolas said with a grin of excitement, pulling her with him. "I will show you."
Alede was winded by the time they were only half way up the tree. Fortunately, Legolas stopped, pointing out the view, which was well worth seeing.
"See over there?" he pointed. "This area is dotted with natural hot springs and thermal caves. Gimli and his people made copper piping that carries the steam. We've concealed it beneath the wrapping to keep it warm . . ."
There followed a bewildering explanation of how the steam and the hot water from the springs rose up the spiral staircases and entered the dwellings. Alede was able to only follow about half of it, but it sounded terribly clever.
"So. . ." she said cautiously, "if I'm following you correctly, you're saying that steam heats the insides of the homes and provides hot running water as well."
"Yes, in pipes behind the walls. There are gutters and small cisterns on the roofs which supply cold water. We have no lack of rain here," Legolas said enthusiastically. "Come!"
He took Alede's hand again and she laughed as she tried to keep up with him. Legolas would have bounded up the steps if not for her.
"Oh . . ." Alede breathed a startled gasp when they reached the wide landing in front of Legolas' home.
The dwelling was impossible to describe. It was much larger than it appeared from below and gently curved. It was made of the silvery gray wood of the Culhalla and intricately carved. The steeply pitched rooftop was adorned with scrolls and filigree and vines carved from wood wove their delicate tendrils about the lovely arched door.
Legolas paused, letting Alede take her time in examining every detail.
"Its beautiful," she said finally, giving Legolas a bemused smile. In truth, she thought that beautiful hardly described it. That she would actually be living here with Legolas . . . a thrill of excitement ran through her belly, like a flight of butterflies suddenly taking wing.
With a small smile, Legolas pushed the door open and gestured for her to go inside.
Again, Alede took her time. The front room, known in Elvin households as the 'visiting room' was large and spacious. There were enough divans and plump chairs for several people and Alede suspected that Legolas often used the room for meetings with his counselors. Small panels near the floor could be opened to expose the copper piping from which steady warmth emanated.
The visiting room led into a study with a large desk at its center. Alede recognized the desk. She had seen it in Thranduil's study years ago.
"Is this . . ."
Legolas grinned. "Yes. Father gave it to me. When I was a child, I used to empty the drawers and pigeonholes onto the floor and create a grand mess. Mother would find me and scold me while trying very hard not laugh. Then she and I would put it all back together. Father would make a big commotion about how his desk kept getting rearranged. He claimed that gremlins were to blame though of course he knew it was me."
Alede chuckled, seeing yet another facet to the King's complex personality.
"How ever did you get it up all those steps?" she asked.
"With ropes, pulleys, prayers and many an impolite comment."
Alede laughed and moved around the room. There were several bookcases and just as many windows. The room was bathed in the mid day light and they were high enough in the canopy that rays of sunlight danced in the southern windows. There were paintings and sketches on the walls as well and Alede went to one of them to examine it.
"I did not know you were so skilled," she said in amazement, looking at a blueprint of the Great Hall.
"I have seen much architecture in my travels," Legolas said, laying a gentle, companionable hand on the small of her back. "It has given me much pleasure to build my own designs. Though none," he said, giving her a look that seemed to make her knees go week, "has given me as much pleasure as what I am about to show you."
Alede raised an inquisitive brow, but Legolas only took her hand again, pulling her down a long hallway that curved around the tree trunk. They passed a room that was obviously Legolas' bedchamber. Alede got only a glimpse of a tall curtained bed and dark polished furniture, before Legolas led her out onto a slat bridge. It crossed to another dwelling, similar to his, though not quit as large.
The bridge gave Alede the jitters at first, especially since the wind chose to kick up at that moment, sending both homes to swaying. But Legolas walked across it with total unconcern and so she followed him.
The landing had another long staircase spiraling down from it, but instead of vines carved about the doorway, there were roses instead. Alede ran an appreciative finger over them, before she noticed that Legolas had stepped back rather nervously and gestured for her to open the door.
"Is this mine?" she asked breathlessly and Legolas nodded solemnly.
The visiting room was smaller than Legolas', but more cozy and intimate because of it. The walls had been white washed and the room glowed with light. Comfortable looking chairs stood next to a divan piled with soft pillows, flowers in pots stood in the window embrasures. Another door opposite led into a library, lined with bookshelves. Some of the shelves were already filled and Alede walked to them eagerly and opened them.
The books were carefully copied versions of medical texts from Mirkwood. Turning around again, with a book still clutched to her breast, she watched as Legolas opened a large chest standing against the wall.
The doors opened to reveal shelves with colored bottles neatly sitting upon them. Alede set the book down and picked up a small bottle made of brown glass. It was empty but had a good waxed lid on it.
"For your medicines," Legolas said rather shyly. "I know that some of them do not react well to light, hence the colored glass. I hope I made them the right size . . ."
"You made them?" Alede asked.
Legolas nodded. "I even have the burned fingers to prove it. Glass blowing is a fine skill which I am only beginning to master. I also carved the chest. I wanted to give you something I had made with my own hands . . ."
He never finished the sentence. With a cry of joy, Alede flung her arms around his neck, kissing him passionately. Legolas was never sure later how he managed it, but somehow they found themselves on the divan in the other room, with Alede on his lap, his fingers in her hair and his mouth on hers.
Everything else was forgotten and it was a long time before they broke apart.
~ ~ ~
Legolas bounded down the steps two at a time. If the rail had not been covered with vines, he would have slid down it as he had when he was a child in his Father's hall. As it was, he settled for landing with a soft thump beside Mändel, startling the steward slightly.
"Your Highness," Mändel said with a disapproving sniff. He hated it when Legolas did not act with solemn dignity.
Legolas suppressed a smile. Mändel's attitude amused him and the temptation to plague the serious Elf was a constant battle for him. But Mändel was an excellent steward and loyal to a fault.
"Did the honor guard set out this morning, as I instructed?" Legolas asked, though he asked the question more out of a desire to make conversation that for the need to know. Of course the guard had gone out as ordered.
"Yes, my lord. They should be meeting up with your Father's party even as we speak. I must admit, however, that I expected your lady to be traveling with them. Had I known she would come ahead, I would have sent out . . ."
Legolas chuckled, interrupting him. "I do not think that anyone knew Lady Alede would come ahead of the party, not even she, until the last minute. Ah . . ." he said looking up, "here she is now."
~ ~ ~
Alede stepped out onto the landing in front of Legolas' home and looked down. She could easily spot his fair hair in the shadowy darkness at the bottom of the stair.
After they had given each other a long and proper greeting on the divan, Legolas had led her to her bedchamber.
"I will leave you here," he had said, "for I do not trust myself to enter. If I do, you will not be rid of me anytime soon."
"I have no desire to be rid of you," Alede had answered, a blush of both desire and embarrassment creeping up her face. They had stood for several moments breathlessly remembering their kisses and caresses.
Legolas had finally broken the tension by throwing up his hands and saying, "Ai! You will be the death of me, woman!" He had left her with a teasing grin and Alede had turned to explore her new room.
The bedchamber was an airy room, the midday sun streamed in through the gauzy curtains upon the windows. Glass doors led out to a balcony and there were two large wardrobes opposite the canopied bed.
As eager as Alede was to explore her new home, she was more eager to be with Legolas. Walked into the bathing chamber, she had shed her dusty nightdress. Alede had experimented with the small spigots above the basin and discovered to her delight that one produced hot water and another cold. She had given herself a quick wash with a cloth and then gone out to look in the wardrobes.
One was filled with fine silken gowns of the most exquisite workmanship. The other contained more practical clothing, even including breeches and tunics.
As Alede stood now, upon the landing, she smoothed the forest green kirtle she had finally chosen. It was made of a good sturdy linen and the skirt was wide enough that she would have no trouble walking or riding in it. A pale green under dress complimented it and she wore a pair of doeskin boots beneath. These were practical clothes appropriate for the tour that Legolas had promised her, yet attractive enough that she would not shame him while meeting his people.
She saw him and another Elf looking up at her and could not help the smile that brightened her face as she hurried down the steps. But she also remembered the words that Thranduil had drilled into her head while on the journey here. She might have resented it at the time since there was nothing wrong with her manners, yet it would not hurt to be overly formal with Legolas' people.
When she reached the bottom of the steps, slightly breathless, though not as breathless as she had been when she'd climbed them, she gave Legolas a slight nod of her head.
"My lord," she said by way of greeting.
Legolas smiled at her, his eyes twinkling mischievously, before introducing her to his steward.
Alede gave Mändel a deep curtsy and the formal Elvin greeting.
"Welcome to Eryn Culhallas, Lady Alede," the steward replied with a bow.
"Thank you."
~ ~ ~
Legolas watched as Alede conversed with his steward. He was mildly surprised to see how nervous she was, though she was fighting to not show it. It hadn't occurred to him that she would be nervous about meeting his people. But obviously she was. That and her formal greeting a moment ago made him wonder if this was his father's doing. It would be just like Thranduil to criticize her so much that she began to doubt herself.
Once they had left Mändel, Legolas slipped her hand through his arm.
"Alede . . . my people will love you for the same reasons that I do. You need not fear meeting them."
"I . . ." she looked up, embarrassment showing in her face. "I only wish to make a good first impression on them."
"You will. But I also wish for them to know the real you," he said, lifting her chin with a gentle finger when she would have looked away. "You are woman of warmth and compassion, the most admirable of all qualities. You need not try to hide it behind stiff formality."
"It is just that . . ." Alede paused, obviously searching for the correct words. "I have never really considered your status before. I mean, of course I knew that you were royalty, but for whatever reason it has never really meant that much to me. I . . ." she sighed in frustration. "I am saying this badly."
"Nay," Legolas replied with a squeeze of her hand. "I am well aware that my status has never been important to you. It is one of the many things that I love about you."
She looked up at him surprised and he continued.
"Alede, even among Elves there is much political maneuvering. I dare to say that it is more subtle and less vicious than the political maneuvering of men, but still it exists. I cannot tell you the number of times I have been examined by various women as if I were no more than horse flesh which they considered bartering for."
Alede's eyes opened wide. "Really?"
He nodded as he led her to the stables and then Alede giggled.
"And yet what a handsome bit of horse flesh you are," she said with a mischievous laugh. "Who are these women? Perhaps I should see what they would be willing to bargain for you."
"The only bargaining you will be doing is over my knee if you do not behave," Legolas said, giving her a swat on the bottom.
Alede gave a squeak of surprise and tried to pull away from him. They tussled for a moment until Legolas ended it by pulling her in for an affectionate hug.
"Do you know how much joy you bring me, Alede?" he said, his lips pressed against her hair.
"Perhaps as much as you bring me," she answered with a smile.
He nodded and kissed her lightly, since there were people near by and then led her into the stable where he received a surprise.
"Hmm . . . I intended to ask Aransûl to take us on our tour, but he seems rather occupied." They both looked up at the white stallion who had left his own stall and was standing in Faunlend's, shielding the mare from their view rather protectively. He also laid back his ears for just a moment, very uncharacteristic behavior in an elvish horse.
"Oh, so that is the way of it," Legolas said with a laugh, approaching Aransûl despite the ears. The stallion flicked his ears again and stomped, but could not resist the outstretched hand of his elf for more than a moment. Suddenly looking rather sheepish, he ambled over to Legolas and let him stroke his muzzle.
Faunlend poked her head over Aransûl's back and pricked her ears at Alede, the look of smug satisfaction quite evident on her equine face.
"I see that you two have become reacquainted," Legolas said.
"Yes, they became rather well acquainted while they were in Rivendell," Alede said disgustedly. "While you and I were at the mercy of the Faerie Queen, these two were frolicking in the meadows."
"Indeed?" Legolas asked with a laugh.
Alede nodded. "A couple of months after you left, I realized that Faunlend was with foal. A very nice colt they produced."
"You said nothing of it in your letters," Legolas said.
Alede grinned up at him mischievously. "Elrohir told me that he's wanted a horse from the house of Oropher for years. I gave the colt to him. He intends to put him to stud to increase the bloodlines of their horses."
"Ha! Just as I always suspected!" Legolas crowed. "The horses of the house of Elrond have always been inferior."
Alede chuckled. "Elrohir says that the next time you and he meet, the outcome of your habitual race will be different."
"He is still sore that I have beaten him every time," Legolas chuckled.
"I hope you don't mind," Alede said, turning serious again. "But I felt that I should give Elrohir and Elladan something in return for their hospitality."
"They are indeed generous hosts, but then you and your father labored long and hard in Rivendell. The debt goes both ways."
She shook her head, "Nay, they owe us nothing for our magic. It is the purpose of the Maiar to serve the people of Middle Earth. It is why my father and the other were sent here. But I meant for their hospitality all of these years. Elladan and Elrohir practically raised me, you know. At least when I was not studying with Elrond, they did."
Legolas nodded sagely. "I have been intending to speak with them about that. No doubt the few character flaws which you possess are their fault."
"Character flaws?" Alede asked haughtily, suppressing a grin. "And what character flaws might these be, my Lord?"
"This alarming propensity you've developed for riding across Gondor in your nightdress . . ."
Legolas ducked as Alede playfully attempted to box his ears. Behind them, Aransûl went back to nuzzling Faunlend's neck, knowing that it would be some time before he was required to carry them anywhere.
~ ~ ~
The tour was everything that both of them could have wished for. Alede was sensitive to the tragedy that had befallen the grape crop and eager to offer ideas and ask questions. She marveled at the vast lavender fields that pastured Eryn Culhallas' bees and produced their honey. She laughed over the antics of the goats that produced the milk for cheese and cream.
All the while she kept her arms wrapped about Legolas' slender waist, pressing close to him, yet not clinging and Legolas wondered why he had not seen how much he loved her years and years ago. She was exactly what he wanted in a companion, exactly what he needed. Resting a warm hand over hers, they rode on.
~ ~ ~
They returned to the city in the late afternoon. Alede was yawning and ready for a nap. Legolas was eager to be there when his father arrived.
"Do you need anything?" Legolas asked as he saw her into her rooms.
Alede smothered another yawn. "Will you have someone wake me in a little while?"
"Of course," he said, touching her cheek softly. "Rest well."
Alede turned around after he'd closed the door and hugged herself as she looked around her new home. She still couldn't believe it!
Wandering into her bedchamber, Alede was about to lie down on the bed, but movement on the balcony caught her eye. Stepping out the door, she found an enormous basket hanging just off of the balcony. It was nearly the same size as her bed. Going to the rail for a better look, Alede saw that the rail itself had a gate in it and a small platform led to the basket. Intrigued, she opened it and stepped out, catching hold of one of the ropes that held the basket.
"It is a bed," she whispered in amazement. True enough, the basket contained a thick mattress covered by a heavy oilcloth wrapper to protect it from the elements. Gingerly, Alede stepped into the basket, setting it to swinging. She dropped to her knees, the motion feeling just a little alarming. But as she peeked over the sides, down at the ground nearly a hundred feet below, she found that she actually felt rather snug. The walls of the basket were high enough to make it cozy and secure.
Pulling back the oilcloth, Alede found warm soft blankets beneath. Snuggling under them, she had just enough time to roll over and admire the brilliant blue sky twinkling through the leaves of the Culhalla, before her eyelids drooped and she was asleep.
~ ~ ~
Legolas stood at the end of a beribboned pathway, wearing his finest clothes and with his entire court assembled around him. Grooms rushed forward to take weary horses from the new arrivals.
"Welcome to Eryn Culhallas, Father." He stepped forward into Thranduil's embrace and the King hugged him so fiercely, Legolas felt as if his ribs were creaking.
"Thank you, my son." Thranduil held him for a moment longer than necessary and when they stepped back from each other, the King gave him piercing look. "You are well, I trust?"
"I am well, Father," Legolas answered, recognizing his father's worry. "But let us not talk of unpleasantness until later. All is well and for now I merely wish to enjoy your company. It has been too long, Father."
"Aye, Son, that it has. At least I had an interesting traveling companion for much of the journey. I trust your bride made it safely here?" he asked with an arched eyebrow. "I suppose it is too much to hope that the dwarf fell off somewhere during her midnight journey?"
Legolas returned his father's look. "I am pleased to say that both Alede and Gimli arrived this morning in excellent health."
Deliberately turning away from his father, Legolas greeted Radagast affectionately. "I have been most eager to see you again, Lord Radagast."
The old wizard hugged him enthusiastically. "As I have you, Legolas. I am looking forward to knowing you and your people better."
"And Alede has spoken of no one else for five years," Cyrus added drolly, stepping forward to give Legolas a stiff bow. "I look forward to foisting her off on you, so that we all might get some peace."
Legolas chuckled and welcomed the irritable old wizard before turning back to Radagast. "Alede is resting at the moment otherwise she would be here to greet you." Raising his voice, he addressed the entire party. "Tonight we will feast in honor of your coming," Legolas told them, "and celebrate my betrothal to Lady Alede. I invite you to relax until this evening and enjoy all the hospitality that my kingdom can give you."
Servants escorted Radagast and Cyrus to their guest quarters in the Great Hall, while Legolas exchanged a few words with Gimli's companions before they stumped off to the small stone house.
"Do you wish to see your rooms, Father?" Legolas asked, turning back to Thranduil.
"Nay," said the King, looking about with a shrewd eye. "I wish to see what my youngest son has been doing all these years in his southern realm.
Legolas grinned, knowing that there was a challenge ahead of him and called for fresh horses to be brought to them.
~ ~ ~
"My Lady?" a soft voice called.
Alede swam up out of the soft cloud of sleep and blinked at the figure holding a flickering candle. For a moment she could not remember where she was. Then sweet memory filled her and she sat up in her cozy nest.
"My Lady," the she-Elf called, "His Highness sent me to wake you. The celebration begins in an hour."
"An hour!?" Alede squeaked in alarm. "I cannot possibly be ready in an hour!" She leaped from the basket so energetically it set the whole structure to rocking and banging against the rail.
~ ~ ~
A/N: Well, was this too much mush and domestic bliss for anyone? Nobody became nauseous I hope. Lol :D Coming up in chapter 6 we'll see if Alede makes it to the celebration on time. Thranduil will have a few choice words and don't forget about the witch in Mordor. Legolas lovers get ready; we'll finally get to see him in all his royal splendor, coming up in "The King of Culhallas Wood."
Special thanks to Irena who has caught some of my ridiculous spelling mistakes. I am so sorry! It's hard to believe that I have a college education, isn't it? lol! You now have a tiny glimmer of what I put Thecla through! :D
Much of the inspiration for the houses in Eryn Culhallas came from James Gurney's "Dinotopia" (the books, not the movie). If you have access to the books, take a look at Treetown (pg. 100 to 101) in "Dinotopia" and Bonabba (pg. 118 to 119) in "The World Beneath" and you'll get an idea of what Eryn Culhallas looks like.
*** Original Character List ***
Alede the Green - Witch, healer and wizard. She is daughter of Radagast the Brown. After the death of her mother, she was raised in Rivendell for a while and learned healing skills from Elrond. She also developed a terrible crush on Elrohir, which he has gently teased her about for centuries. She also spent some time learning the wizarding craft at Orthanc under the tutelage of Saruman. Because she felt her healer's calling was more important, and because she considered herself a poor wizardess, Alede never completed her training at Orthanc.
Cyrus the Blue - The forth Maia to be sent to Middle Earth and friend to Radagast the Brown
Lomomir - Brother to King Thranduil of Mirkwood and a healer. He has spent the last many years in Rivendell studying with Alede and reading from Elrond's many books and journals.
Maladok the Red - The fifth Maia sent to Middle Earth. After a disastrous encounter with Saruman, Maladok has become a bit of a "black sheep" in the wizarding world.
Zarraweth - A young human witch with more plans and beauty than is good for her.
Malina - A healer and witch of the Angmar Mountains. She was married to Radagast the Brown and was Alede's mother. She was killed by a mob of religious fanatics who thought her witchcraft had brought plague to a village when instead she had been trying to cure it. Alede was only sixteen when Malina was killed.
Mändel - Legolas' steward. He originally served under Thranduil in Mirkwood in a lesser position.
Galomir - Ithilien's healer.
Girwyn - A general in Legolas' army. He is in charge of Ithilien's security.
