A/N: I apologize for being late with the update but you guys understand.
Again: sorry!:) This chapter turned out wonderfully, I think. It has all
the elements I wanted it to have. Mind you, there is no Legolas in here but
do not worry, for he will be making his appearance soon enough. As I have
mentioned countless times before, I intend on staying in accordance with
the true Lord of the Rings. I guess what I'm trying to do is have a love
story on the side (kind of like what Sir Tolkien did in Appendix A with
Arwen and Aragorn at the end of The Return of the King). That having been
said, I leave you now to read the chapter. I liked this one (as I have
mentioned) and those of you who like adventure will enjoy it too, I hope.
*.NjOy.*
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Dileriyen stormed off to her room in a frenzy. What in the world was going on? How did Thranduil know about Elrohir and, more importantly, just where did that crazy idea of her marrying him come from? She would never do such a thing. Of course not. What a silly notion in itself.
*Oh this is all too confusing!* She grumbled to herself inwardly. This was no time to be living such confusion. She had enough to think about without adding to her stress and misery. But, then again, things always seem to get worse just when we think that they can't. Unconsciously, she began to speak to herself.
"Alright girl, let us think! There are but few options left open to you, choose wisely for there is no time to waste. If I stay, I am to face Elrohir everyday, which is certainly not good because this little infatuation of his has gotten quite out of hand. I cannot, no, I shall not marry him and he would do well to get that through his head. I can not emphasize my rejection in any other way, though, other than leaving. Otherwise it would be cruelty; to stay and be a constant sign of pain for him. Yes, yes, next choice then. Hmmm...Let's see. Wait a minute, that's it! Why do I stay here when there is no reason to? It is quite unnecessary. It is settled then! Yes. I shall return home and set things straight with father that he may see who is truly to blame for this mess. The very essence of his life, indeed! Humph! Well that did not last long, did it..."
Another frown found its place on her face again as she said that last sentence sadly and bitterly. But her reasoning was otherwise correct for there really was no need to further stay in Rivendell. She ought to just go home and await Legolas' return.
"Of course, there is always...oh no, I would never dare that. I could accomplish nothing by trying to find the Fellowship for surely I would not succeed. They are lost within the lands now. And, if by chance I should find them, I need not see Legolas with his new...no. I need not awake into that horrible nightmare just yet. I would rather face him upon his return. At least then I shall have father fighting on my side." Then her thoughts turned to Elrohir one last time.
"Oh sweet Elrohir...if you could but understand what it really means to be in love. Perhaps then you would realize the consequences of quick actions and irrational words. I pray to the Valar that you someday find someone whom you can truly bestow your love upon and that she may return your affections. But alas! For I am not that person you seek. You will come to understand that in time."
She let out a sigh, her path was clear: "Homeward bound, it is!"
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*knock knock knock*
"Yes, come in," said Elrond. He seemed to be in a pleasant mood.
Dileriyen walked in slowly but this time, with a smile on her face. Altogether, she was glad to be going home. It was where she belonged and somehow she sensed that if she were there, things would find a way to resolve themselves within time. After all, she still had her father and he always knew what to do. Always. For he loved her as if she were his own and he would set things straight. She just knew it.
She went up to Elrond and held his hand within hers. She looked him in the eyes and said:
"Dear uncle, I have come to bid you farewell for I have decided to head back home. I have trespassed on your hospitality long enough and now the time comes for me to take my leave. My heart is in Mirkwood, where I left it and I go now to retrieve it. But I suppose that I shall be seeing you again very soon, this time hopefully under happier circumstances. Well, I suppose that too depends on how one looks at it."
"My child, you know you are welcome to stay here with us until.well I suppose until the time comes when we must all depart. I will have no talk of trespasses on hospitality. You know that this too is your home and you are welcome to it whenever you will. Although I fear that the time to depart is near at hand. Are you sure you do not wish to stay with us?"
"Indeed it is a great grief to my heart to be looking upon these fair lands for the last time. Oh Imladris... How can anything else hope to compare to its beauty? Nay, it should not dare for it is futile. But I must say goodbye Uncle for I feel that I am needed at home and I shall have to part with it too when the time comes and I fear that parting with Imladris will be fairly easy when compared to Mirkwood. I hope you take no offense to that."
"No, no my love I most certainly do not! Come now and let me embrace you one last time before matters begin to wind down those roads that none can foresee."
And so they hugged each other for the last time in the beauty that was Rivendell for their next meeting would be several months later, when comes a time for many partings. But that is a tale yet to come.
Dileriyen was ready to leave yet there were still some unsettled matters. Although Elrond had not heeded the words around him too much, now would be the perfect time for him to approach the topic that also held him in considerable confusion.
"Dileriyen, may I ask you something before you go? And please my dear, be truthful in your response."
"Of course you may Uncle, I have nothing to hide." She smiled sweetly.
"What is this business between you and my son? Dare I ask, are you two in love? And although that would doubtless bring joy to my heart, what of Legolas? Please explain this to me and pardon my ignorance for I have had other matters to attend to, as you no doubt are aware that we are on the brink of war. But I must have this matter cleared before you go."
"Ah, my dear uncle you ask a very loaded question and I know not where to begin. I suppose the beginning is always best. I shall not take up your time with details but to summarize, if that is possible in such a situation as this, I fear your son thinks that he is in love but I cannot return his affections. And for that I am sorry. He is a very good soul and will make a fine husband to someone who deserves him but my heart is with Legolas, as you have known all along. Sadly, though, I received a letter from 'his Highness', requesting me to cease my letters, not to mention my affections and implying that he has found happiness with someone else..." She looked down to the ground sadly so as not to weep once more.
Elrond stayed deep in thought for a moment and then the wisdom of many ages began to show itself. He would not have his niece leave Rivendell with such a weight on her soul.
"Hmm. That is very unlike Legolas, don't you think? My love, let us consider for a moment the fact that you have known him all his life. I dare say, it is very unlikely that he could get so attached to someone in a month or so and forget or replace the woman he has loved all his life. The depth of your love seems immeasurable. Do not forget, we are Elves, our love and sorrows know no bounds. We are not fickle like humans so the situation that you have described to me is against the very nature of our race! I know you both all too well and am sure that this must all surely be a misunderstanding of sorts."
"That may very well be but a matter that perplexes me, Uncle, is how everyone seems to be misunderstanding the situation between me and Elrohir. Indeed he has proposed to me, but only today. Everyone seems to be under the misconception that we were engaged and ready to marry for quite some time. My confusion is beyond words! Would you believe that even my father has written to me, demanding an explanation! All this and now Legolas refuses my letters and affection, for reasons unknown. I know not what to think anymore!"
She held her arms up in a motion of utter defeat and then went into deep thought, a screwed up expression on her face, clearly showing (in a very unladylike manner, might I add) that she was thinking yet getting absolutely nowhere.
But Elrond's mind was quicker than Dileriyen's words and he seemed to be picking up things that were yet unspoken or lay embedded within her sentences.
"What is that you say? Do you mean to tell me that you have not been aware of all this gossip that has been waving itself in front of your face for months? Surely!"
"Uncle what are you talking about? You know that I have kept to myself for months. Well, myself and the family. I have limited my social life to that, how can you expect me to know anything that has been going on. Besides, gossip has never been of interest to me. Do you mean to tell me that everyone thinks I am engaged to your son?"
"I am stunned that you did not know!"
Dileriyen's eyes almost popped out of her skull yet all she could think was: *why me, Eru, why me?*
"And for how long you say has this been going on???" Her voice rose a little.
" *I* have known of it for a few months now."
"Oh I do not believe this!!" she bellowed. Funny how Thranduil's traits had rubbed off on her so much over the years.
"You cannot be serious uncle! Why does no one take a care in keeping me informed of these things! Honestly, no one tells me anything! And mind you we are practically family and nothing more than very dear friends! At least I have not allowed for anything more so. How can this conclusion have been drawn??" She buried her head within her hands. *Oh the misery that is to be me,* she groaned.
"I assumed you were quite aware, child! And I have been busy trying to keep a certain Middle-Earth from destruction, as you may -not- have noticed. But anyway...Now that I think of it though, since your father has heard of this news all the way in Mirkwood, do you not suppose that-" he had not the time to finish his sentence as Dileriyen understood exactly what he was getting at. She let out a long, extremely frustrated, groan-like sentence.
"Oh by the Valar nooooo this cannot be happening." (A/N: Oh but it is:)
"My poor little Dileriyen." Elrond walked up to her and pat her head softly, feeling her frustration come off in waves.
"I think it is clear that Legolas is under the impression that you are to wed my son. But there is time yet to set matters straight, is there not?"
"But Uncle, no, there is not! Don't you see; Legolas thinks that I am engaged, or perhaps even married and, to makes things worse, he has found someone new to give his heart to, thinking me out of his life, when he should know better... that fool of a Greenleaf." She huffed. She was angry once more for there were still confusions not taken into consideration.
"But Uncle, there is still a matter that confuses me and this leads to a sort of blind spot in our assumptions."
"What is that, my love?"
"Surely you remember the letter you had me write to Legolas?"
"Yes of course. I had Ralen and Celerin sent off with it to Lothlorien, had I not?"
"That is correct. Well, this is the part that confuses me: the letter I sent to Legolas, whose words are engraved within my heart, would have assured him of my love. I cannot even try to explain it but, please, give me some paper and let me write down its contents as they were exactly."
And so Dileriyen wrote down the same letter that she had memorized and let only Elrond's eyes look upon it. *Strange, he seems to almost have tears in his eyes* she thought. In that she was right for Elrond was very moved by all he had read and knew that he was seeing yet another example of love in its truest form. He cleared his throat.
"And you gave this to Ralen to take to Legolas, I assume?"
"Well no, I could not find Ralen anywhere so I sought out Celerin and gave it to him."
"And tell me child, when was this exactly?"
"Why, it was the evening before they were to set out."
Elrond got a strange look in his eye and a feeling in his gut. He was getting at something, even though he did not know what it was just yet.
"If you can remember exactly, tell me the whole sequence of events leading to your handing over the letter to him."
"Well, I know that I was in a saddened mood of course, but when I finished writing the letter I made sure that it was perfect, then I sealed it and went to look for Ralen. I could not find him but I soon found Celerin. I do remember though that I was not too thrilled at having to approach him just then for he was with Elrohir and matters were not well between us at that moment. I really did not wish to interface with him, things being what they were, then-"
"Just what do you mean, 'things being what they were'?"
"Well, Uncle, if you must know he had got me very upset due to his cruel words and over-exaggerated emotions. Though, I attacked him more cruelly, for which I am not proud of. But all in all things were very ill between us. Simply put, he sought my affections even then, and I rejected them, clearly stating my love for Legolas. Anyway, as I was saying, I went up to Celerin and spoke only to him. I told him to deliver the letter to Legolas the minute he stepped in Lothlorien, that it was of the utmost importance, and he told me that he would see to it personally. I then thanked him and went on my way. That is all that happened. And obviously the letter must have reached Legolas for him to have had replied by telling me to send no more."
"Hmm.very strange indeed."
"Yes and do you see to what I was getting at, Uncle? I simply do not understand why he would shut me off in such a manner, especially after I poured my heart out to him in that letter. But in his reply.oooh." She shuddered, remembering its cruelty. "What a horrible letter it was. It was as though I had told him that I loved him no longer, or something equally absurd!" she scoffed and added a wry laugh. It was too ridiculous to even consider. So ridiculous that it had actually happened. (A/N: aren't misunderstandings a bitch?).
"What did you just say?" Elrond asked, squinting his eyes and in it seemed that the wheels of his mind were turning at intense speeds.
"Oh Uncle really! Did not you hear a word I just said? I-"
"No child that is not what I mean! I have had a thought...that letter. You just said that it seemed as though you had written him telling him that you no longer loved him. You do not sup-"
"No no no no no and infinitely no! No uncle let us not even suppose that," she began to ramble in an angry manner pointing one finger in the air, "for if we were to suppose that, then my finger would point straight to Celerin and Elrohir and then we would have a repeat of Helcaraxe." (A/N: Helcaraxe is the first event of kin slaying between the Elves).
"Hush child I will not have you utter such atrocities!!"
She had angered Elrond. But she had said it in passing and he understood her for her anger would be quite justifiable if indeed these events had anything to do with Celerin and his son. His instincts spoke in the affirmative.
"I am sorry...I did not mean to be disrespectful..."
He sighed and stood in front of her and held her shoulders. "I know, my love, I know. Come now, we have debated this issue long enough. What's done is done but do not worry for the guilty shall not go unpunished. I will see to that and resolve this matter. You have my promise. But what you really came here for was to bid me farewell, was it not? Well then, I suppose that you shall want to say goodbye to your cousins. Go now and bid Arwen and Elladan farewell but heed my advice, do not speak of your leaving to Elrohir. Let me deal with him."
"Yes, I understand uncle. But whatever he has done, or not done as the case may in fact be, do not be too harsh on him. He is still young and knows not much of these things. Please let him know that I do not think ill of him. Alas, for even if he were guilty of such a crime, Legolas is responsible for his own actions and for throwing himself into someone else's arms. Elrohir has helped me through these hard times and for his support I am eternally grateful. No, indeed, I cannot think ill of Elrohir, even if I should. He is not to blame for Legolas' faults." She sighed. Why was her life so hell-bent on getting worse?
"That is very great of you to say, child. I am very proud of you."
"Thank you Uncle, I shall go now and say goodbye to Arwen and Elladan. But I will see them all soon, in any case."
"That you shall, but come back when you are packed and ready to depart. And Dileriyen, one last thing, take an extra care when saying goodbye to Arwen; this may be your last true farewell..." he then stared off into nothingness as was his way when he spoke of his daughter and the matters that tied in and Dileriyen silently nodded before stepping out of the door. Elrond was right. He was right about everything.
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Dileriyen first spoke with Elladan but kept her goodbye to him brief for she would have all of eternity to be in his society. Arwen was another story. Dileriyen devoted extra love and attention to her cousin this last time but of the things they spoke I will not mention here. Their words were for their ears alone. The one definite thing that can be said is that the air was cleared of doubt for both parties and each knew where and with whom their hearts lay. Alas, how do sisters really say goodbye to another? Of course they would see each other once again before Dileriyen headed for the West but that would be very brief and full of tears. Besides, that was a time Arwen would most doubt want to fully devote to her brothers and father. Thus many tears were already shed, many promises made and remembered and Arwen helped Dileriyen pack for her return journey. They headed together to find Elrond and when they had, he smiled to see them together. Images of them standing side by side when they were both very young came back to him.
"Are you ready to go my dear?"
"Yes Uncle I am; all packed and ready to go."
"And how many men will you need to accompany you?"
"No, no, none of that Uncle! It is quite safe, do not worry. I shall be fine on my own and much faster on my way."
"Certainly not Dileriyen, I won't let you out and about all by yourself! Why-"
"Uncle pleeeease do not argue with me! I am going home! What is the worst that could happen; I fall asleep and lose track of the hour? Besides, I doubt that further mischance could hinder me, if you know what I mean! You need your men with you at this hour. Do not worry about me. I will write as soon as I have reached home safely. You have my promise."
Elrond looked at her, quite displeased. He caved in of course, for true it was that arguing with her was a pointless affair. The three walked outside together and there greeted her Asona, who was also overjoyed to be going home at last. Dileriyen mounted after giving them (especially Arwen) long embraces and turned to head off her way. Arwen had one last thing to say.
"Do not worry about Legolas, dear cousin. Estel shall set him straight!"
This made Dileriyen laugh heartily and for a moment, her spirits lifted.
"Aye fair cousin, it is in his best interest that he do so! Farewell!!"
And with that she sped off, a shadow under the sun. Elrond looked at his daughter for a while and she looked back. They smiled softly to one another, seemingly lost in their own world. He then threw his hand around her waist as she did the same and they headed back into the house.
"Oh my Undomiel..."
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Dileriyen spoke softly into Asona's ear for she was in quite a hurry to get home and wanted the horse to be as swift as possible. She had so much to say to Thranduil that her blood boiled to even think about it. Where on Earth would she begin? Oh yes, she was in quite the hurry but this time, she would not test her nerves going through that unthinkable region. There were plenty of other ways, perhaps a bit longer and darker, no doubt less friendly but nevertheless she was determined to get home in one piece.
And so for a few days Asona the great and Dileriyen the unstoppable raced through the lands, finally finding themselves in the midst of the forest. They stopped to rest during the afternoon but it was not Dileriyen's intention to sleep at night. They had to press on for they had got a bit sidetracked from their road and were in unfriendly lands. The trees spoke of things she chose not to hear but that is quite hard to accomplish when one has Elven ears.
She slowed Asona's speed to a canter because the sound of her hooves galloping on the beaten path were just too loud in a dead zone such as this, where one wants to attract as little attention as possible. All was in a gloom. Apparently the moon had decided to sleep and not put in an appearance. Obviously many of the stars had joined him. A slight wind had picked up and it was chilly now, rainy weather threatening the sky. But Dileriyen would not falter, as would not Asona. They were creatures with a purpose and they drew close to that purpose ever more.
But then Dileriyen's ears picked up sounds from behind. Her heart told her to continue faster but her mind took control and made her stop Asona. Dileriyen was in a deadly mood and did not take kindly to being followed. There. She heard it again. A barely audible hissing sound. This did not sound good. She turned her body halfway around but there was nothing there. But just as she turned to reface the front, a large black figure fell on top of her and forced her to the ground backwards. Dileriyen fell to the floor with tremendous force and it felt as though her spine had broken but she managed to kick the creature off of her. Unfortunately, Asona screamed loudly and attracted more of the hideous ones to them. They had surrounded them but Dileriyen managed to yell out:
"Run Asona! Head for the palace! Do not stop!"
And Asona flew with such speed that the ground shook beneath her feet. But alas for poor Dileriyen stumbling on the ground, trying to get up. It was no use; they had her in the middle and surrounded her completely. The circle drew in closer and closer and before Dileriyen could retaliate, she felt something sting her in the back. Things went fuzzy for a minute until Dileriyen fell in utter dizziness to the ground. A moment later, she was completely unconscious and being dragged through the trees into unknown and unfriendly caves. Dileriyen was alive, but poisoned and in the Spiders' keeping...
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A/N: My poor girl :(((
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Dileriyen stormed off to her room in a frenzy. What in the world was going on? How did Thranduil know about Elrohir and, more importantly, just where did that crazy idea of her marrying him come from? She would never do such a thing. Of course not. What a silly notion in itself.
*Oh this is all too confusing!* She grumbled to herself inwardly. This was no time to be living such confusion. She had enough to think about without adding to her stress and misery. But, then again, things always seem to get worse just when we think that they can't. Unconsciously, she began to speak to herself.
"Alright girl, let us think! There are but few options left open to you, choose wisely for there is no time to waste. If I stay, I am to face Elrohir everyday, which is certainly not good because this little infatuation of his has gotten quite out of hand. I cannot, no, I shall not marry him and he would do well to get that through his head. I can not emphasize my rejection in any other way, though, other than leaving. Otherwise it would be cruelty; to stay and be a constant sign of pain for him. Yes, yes, next choice then. Hmmm...Let's see. Wait a minute, that's it! Why do I stay here when there is no reason to? It is quite unnecessary. It is settled then! Yes. I shall return home and set things straight with father that he may see who is truly to blame for this mess. The very essence of his life, indeed! Humph! Well that did not last long, did it..."
Another frown found its place on her face again as she said that last sentence sadly and bitterly. But her reasoning was otherwise correct for there really was no need to further stay in Rivendell. She ought to just go home and await Legolas' return.
"Of course, there is always...oh no, I would never dare that. I could accomplish nothing by trying to find the Fellowship for surely I would not succeed. They are lost within the lands now. And, if by chance I should find them, I need not see Legolas with his new...no. I need not awake into that horrible nightmare just yet. I would rather face him upon his return. At least then I shall have father fighting on my side." Then her thoughts turned to Elrohir one last time.
"Oh sweet Elrohir...if you could but understand what it really means to be in love. Perhaps then you would realize the consequences of quick actions and irrational words. I pray to the Valar that you someday find someone whom you can truly bestow your love upon and that she may return your affections. But alas! For I am not that person you seek. You will come to understand that in time."
She let out a sigh, her path was clear: "Homeward bound, it is!"
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*knock knock knock*
"Yes, come in," said Elrond. He seemed to be in a pleasant mood.
Dileriyen walked in slowly but this time, with a smile on her face. Altogether, she was glad to be going home. It was where she belonged and somehow she sensed that if she were there, things would find a way to resolve themselves within time. After all, she still had her father and he always knew what to do. Always. For he loved her as if she were his own and he would set things straight. She just knew it.
She went up to Elrond and held his hand within hers. She looked him in the eyes and said:
"Dear uncle, I have come to bid you farewell for I have decided to head back home. I have trespassed on your hospitality long enough and now the time comes for me to take my leave. My heart is in Mirkwood, where I left it and I go now to retrieve it. But I suppose that I shall be seeing you again very soon, this time hopefully under happier circumstances. Well, I suppose that too depends on how one looks at it."
"My child, you know you are welcome to stay here with us until.well I suppose until the time comes when we must all depart. I will have no talk of trespasses on hospitality. You know that this too is your home and you are welcome to it whenever you will. Although I fear that the time to depart is near at hand. Are you sure you do not wish to stay with us?"
"Indeed it is a great grief to my heart to be looking upon these fair lands for the last time. Oh Imladris... How can anything else hope to compare to its beauty? Nay, it should not dare for it is futile. But I must say goodbye Uncle for I feel that I am needed at home and I shall have to part with it too when the time comes and I fear that parting with Imladris will be fairly easy when compared to Mirkwood. I hope you take no offense to that."
"No, no my love I most certainly do not! Come now and let me embrace you one last time before matters begin to wind down those roads that none can foresee."
And so they hugged each other for the last time in the beauty that was Rivendell for their next meeting would be several months later, when comes a time for many partings. But that is a tale yet to come.
Dileriyen was ready to leave yet there were still some unsettled matters. Although Elrond had not heeded the words around him too much, now would be the perfect time for him to approach the topic that also held him in considerable confusion.
"Dileriyen, may I ask you something before you go? And please my dear, be truthful in your response."
"Of course you may Uncle, I have nothing to hide." She smiled sweetly.
"What is this business between you and my son? Dare I ask, are you two in love? And although that would doubtless bring joy to my heart, what of Legolas? Please explain this to me and pardon my ignorance for I have had other matters to attend to, as you no doubt are aware that we are on the brink of war. But I must have this matter cleared before you go."
"Ah, my dear uncle you ask a very loaded question and I know not where to begin. I suppose the beginning is always best. I shall not take up your time with details but to summarize, if that is possible in such a situation as this, I fear your son thinks that he is in love but I cannot return his affections. And for that I am sorry. He is a very good soul and will make a fine husband to someone who deserves him but my heart is with Legolas, as you have known all along. Sadly, though, I received a letter from 'his Highness', requesting me to cease my letters, not to mention my affections and implying that he has found happiness with someone else..." She looked down to the ground sadly so as not to weep once more.
Elrond stayed deep in thought for a moment and then the wisdom of many ages began to show itself. He would not have his niece leave Rivendell with such a weight on her soul.
"Hmm. That is very unlike Legolas, don't you think? My love, let us consider for a moment the fact that you have known him all his life. I dare say, it is very unlikely that he could get so attached to someone in a month or so and forget or replace the woman he has loved all his life. The depth of your love seems immeasurable. Do not forget, we are Elves, our love and sorrows know no bounds. We are not fickle like humans so the situation that you have described to me is against the very nature of our race! I know you both all too well and am sure that this must all surely be a misunderstanding of sorts."
"That may very well be but a matter that perplexes me, Uncle, is how everyone seems to be misunderstanding the situation between me and Elrohir. Indeed he has proposed to me, but only today. Everyone seems to be under the misconception that we were engaged and ready to marry for quite some time. My confusion is beyond words! Would you believe that even my father has written to me, demanding an explanation! All this and now Legolas refuses my letters and affection, for reasons unknown. I know not what to think anymore!"
She held her arms up in a motion of utter defeat and then went into deep thought, a screwed up expression on her face, clearly showing (in a very unladylike manner, might I add) that she was thinking yet getting absolutely nowhere.
But Elrond's mind was quicker than Dileriyen's words and he seemed to be picking up things that were yet unspoken or lay embedded within her sentences.
"What is that you say? Do you mean to tell me that you have not been aware of all this gossip that has been waving itself in front of your face for months? Surely!"
"Uncle what are you talking about? You know that I have kept to myself for months. Well, myself and the family. I have limited my social life to that, how can you expect me to know anything that has been going on. Besides, gossip has never been of interest to me. Do you mean to tell me that everyone thinks I am engaged to your son?"
"I am stunned that you did not know!"
Dileriyen's eyes almost popped out of her skull yet all she could think was: *why me, Eru, why me?*
"And for how long you say has this been going on???" Her voice rose a little.
" *I* have known of it for a few months now."
"Oh I do not believe this!!" she bellowed. Funny how Thranduil's traits had rubbed off on her so much over the years.
"You cannot be serious uncle! Why does no one take a care in keeping me informed of these things! Honestly, no one tells me anything! And mind you we are practically family and nothing more than very dear friends! At least I have not allowed for anything more so. How can this conclusion have been drawn??" She buried her head within her hands. *Oh the misery that is to be me,* she groaned.
"I assumed you were quite aware, child! And I have been busy trying to keep a certain Middle-Earth from destruction, as you may -not- have noticed. But anyway...Now that I think of it though, since your father has heard of this news all the way in Mirkwood, do you not suppose that-" he had not the time to finish his sentence as Dileriyen understood exactly what he was getting at. She let out a long, extremely frustrated, groan-like sentence.
"Oh by the Valar nooooo this cannot be happening." (A/N: Oh but it is:)
"My poor little Dileriyen." Elrond walked up to her and pat her head softly, feeling her frustration come off in waves.
"I think it is clear that Legolas is under the impression that you are to wed my son. But there is time yet to set matters straight, is there not?"
"But Uncle, no, there is not! Don't you see; Legolas thinks that I am engaged, or perhaps even married and, to makes things worse, he has found someone new to give his heart to, thinking me out of his life, when he should know better... that fool of a Greenleaf." She huffed. She was angry once more for there were still confusions not taken into consideration.
"But Uncle, there is still a matter that confuses me and this leads to a sort of blind spot in our assumptions."
"What is that, my love?"
"Surely you remember the letter you had me write to Legolas?"
"Yes of course. I had Ralen and Celerin sent off with it to Lothlorien, had I not?"
"That is correct. Well, this is the part that confuses me: the letter I sent to Legolas, whose words are engraved within my heart, would have assured him of my love. I cannot even try to explain it but, please, give me some paper and let me write down its contents as they were exactly."
And so Dileriyen wrote down the same letter that she had memorized and let only Elrond's eyes look upon it. *Strange, he seems to almost have tears in his eyes* she thought. In that she was right for Elrond was very moved by all he had read and knew that he was seeing yet another example of love in its truest form. He cleared his throat.
"And you gave this to Ralen to take to Legolas, I assume?"
"Well no, I could not find Ralen anywhere so I sought out Celerin and gave it to him."
"And tell me child, when was this exactly?"
"Why, it was the evening before they were to set out."
Elrond got a strange look in his eye and a feeling in his gut. He was getting at something, even though he did not know what it was just yet.
"If you can remember exactly, tell me the whole sequence of events leading to your handing over the letter to him."
"Well, I know that I was in a saddened mood of course, but when I finished writing the letter I made sure that it was perfect, then I sealed it and went to look for Ralen. I could not find him but I soon found Celerin. I do remember though that I was not too thrilled at having to approach him just then for he was with Elrohir and matters were not well between us at that moment. I really did not wish to interface with him, things being what they were, then-"
"Just what do you mean, 'things being what they were'?"
"Well, Uncle, if you must know he had got me very upset due to his cruel words and over-exaggerated emotions. Though, I attacked him more cruelly, for which I am not proud of. But all in all things were very ill between us. Simply put, he sought my affections even then, and I rejected them, clearly stating my love for Legolas. Anyway, as I was saying, I went up to Celerin and spoke only to him. I told him to deliver the letter to Legolas the minute he stepped in Lothlorien, that it was of the utmost importance, and he told me that he would see to it personally. I then thanked him and went on my way. That is all that happened. And obviously the letter must have reached Legolas for him to have had replied by telling me to send no more."
"Hmm.very strange indeed."
"Yes and do you see to what I was getting at, Uncle? I simply do not understand why he would shut me off in such a manner, especially after I poured my heart out to him in that letter. But in his reply.oooh." She shuddered, remembering its cruelty. "What a horrible letter it was. It was as though I had told him that I loved him no longer, or something equally absurd!" she scoffed and added a wry laugh. It was too ridiculous to even consider. So ridiculous that it had actually happened. (A/N: aren't misunderstandings a bitch?).
"What did you just say?" Elrond asked, squinting his eyes and in it seemed that the wheels of his mind were turning at intense speeds.
"Oh Uncle really! Did not you hear a word I just said? I-"
"No child that is not what I mean! I have had a thought...that letter. You just said that it seemed as though you had written him telling him that you no longer loved him. You do not sup-"
"No no no no no and infinitely no! No uncle let us not even suppose that," she began to ramble in an angry manner pointing one finger in the air, "for if we were to suppose that, then my finger would point straight to Celerin and Elrohir and then we would have a repeat of Helcaraxe." (A/N: Helcaraxe is the first event of kin slaying between the Elves).
"Hush child I will not have you utter such atrocities!!"
She had angered Elrond. But she had said it in passing and he understood her for her anger would be quite justifiable if indeed these events had anything to do with Celerin and his son. His instincts spoke in the affirmative.
"I am sorry...I did not mean to be disrespectful..."
He sighed and stood in front of her and held her shoulders. "I know, my love, I know. Come now, we have debated this issue long enough. What's done is done but do not worry for the guilty shall not go unpunished. I will see to that and resolve this matter. You have my promise. But what you really came here for was to bid me farewell, was it not? Well then, I suppose that you shall want to say goodbye to your cousins. Go now and bid Arwen and Elladan farewell but heed my advice, do not speak of your leaving to Elrohir. Let me deal with him."
"Yes, I understand uncle. But whatever he has done, or not done as the case may in fact be, do not be too harsh on him. He is still young and knows not much of these things. Please let him know that I do not think ill of him. Alas, for even if he were guilty of such a crime, Legolas is responsible for his own actions and for throwing himself into someone else's arms. Elrohir has helped me through these hard times and for his support I am eternally grateful. No, indeed, I cannot think ill of Elrohir, even if I should. He is not to blame for Legolas' faults." She sighed. Why was her life so hell-bent on getting worse?
"That is very great of you to say, child. I am very proud of you."
"Thank you Uncle, I shall go now and say goodbye to Arwen and Elladan. But I will see them all soon, in any case."
"That you shall, but come back when you are packed and ready to depart. And Dileriyen, one last thing, take an extra care when saying goodbye to Arwen; this may be your last true farewell..." he then stared off into nothingness as was his way when he spoke of his daughter and the matters that tied in and Dileriyen silently nodded before stepping out of the door. Elrond was right. He was right about everything.
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Dileriyen first spoke with Elladan but kept her goodbye to him brief for she would have all of eternity to be in his society. Arwen was another story. Dileriyen devoted extra love and attention to her cousin this last time but of the things they spoke I will not mention here. Their words were for their ears alone. The one definite thing that can be said is that the air was cleared of doubt for both parties and each knew where and with whom their hearts lay. Alas, how do sisters really say goodbye to another? Of course they would see each other once again before Dileriyen headed for the West but that would be very brief and full of tears. Besides, that was a time Arwen would most doubt want to fully devote to her brothers and father. Thus many tears were already shed, many promises made and remembered and Arwen helped Dileriyen pack for her return journey. They headed together to find Elrond and when they had, he smiled to see them together. Images of them standing side by side when they were both very young came back to him.
"Are you ready to go my dear?"
"Yes Uncle I am; all packed and ready to go."
"And how many men will you need to accompany you?"
"No, no, none of that Uncle! It is quite safe, do not worry. I shall be fine on my own and much faster on my way."
"Certainly not Dileriyen, I won't let you out and about all by yourself! Why-"
"Uncle pleeeease do not argue with me! I am going home! What is the worst that could happen; I fall asleep and lose track of the hour? Besides, I doubt that further mischance could hinder me, if you know what I mean! You need your men with you at this hour. Do not worry about me. I will write as soon as I have reached home safely. You have my promise."
Elrond looked at her, quite displeased. He caved in of course, for true it was that arguing with her was a pointless affair. The three walked outside together and there greeted her Asona, who was also overjoyed to be going home at last. Dileriyen mounted after giving them (especially Arwen) long embraces and turned to head off her way. Arwen had one last thing to say.
"Do not worry about Legolas, dear cousin. Estel shall set him straight!"
This made Dileriyen laugh heartily and for a moment, her spirits lifted.
"Aye fair cousin, it is in his best interest that he do so! Farewell!!"
And with that she sped off, a shadow under the sun. Elrond looked at his daughter for a while and she looked back. They smiled softly to one another, seemingly lost in their own world. He then threw his hand around her waist as she did the same and they headed back into the house.
"Oh my Undomiel..."
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Dileriyen spoke softly into Asona's ear for she was in quite a hurry to get home and wanted the horse to be as swift as possible. She had so much to say to Thranduil that her blood boiled to even think about it. Where on Earth would she begin? Oh yes, she was in quite the hurry but this time, she would not test her nerves going through that unthinkable region. There were plenty of other ways, perhaps a bit longer and darker, no doubt less friendly but nevertheless she was determined to get home in one piece.
And so for a few days Asona the great and Dileriyen the unstoppable raced through the lands, finally finding themselves in the midst of the forest. They stopped to rest during the afternoon but it was not Dileriyen's intention to sleep at night. They had to press on for they had got a bit sidetracked from their road and were in unfriendly lands. The trees spoke of things she chose not to hear but that is quite hard to accomplish when one has Elven ears.
She slowed Asona's speed to a canter because the sound of her hooves galloping on the beaten path were just too loud in a dead zone such as this, where one wants to attract as little attention as possible. All was in a gloom. Apparently the moon had decided to sleep and not put in an appearance. Obviously many of the stars had joined him. A slight wind had picked up and it was chilly now, rainy weather threatening the sky. But Dileriyen would not falter, as would not Asona. They were creatures with a purpose and they drew close to that purpose ever more.
But then Dileriyen's ears picked up sounds from behind. Her heart told her to continue faster but her mind took control and made her stop Asona. Dileriyen was in a deadly mood and did not take kindly to being followed. There. She heard it again. A barely audible hissing sound. This did not sound good. She turned her body halfway around but there was nothing there. But just as she turned to reface the front, a large black figure fell on top of her and forced her to the ground backwards. Dileriyen fell to the floor with tremendous force and it felt as though her spine had broken but she managed to kick the creature off of her. Unfortunately, Asona screamed loudly and attracted more of the hideous ones to them. They had surrounded them but Dileriyen managed to yell out:
"Run Asona! Head for the palace! Do not stop!"
And Asona flew with such speed that the ground shook beneath her feet. But alas for poor Dileriyen stumbling on the ground, trying to get up. It was no use; they had her in the middle and surrounded her completely. The circle drew in closer and closer and before Dileriyen could retaliate, she felt something sting her in the back. Things went fuzzy for a minute until Dileriyen fell in utter dizziness to the ground. A moment later, she was completely unconscious and being dragged through the trees into unknown and unfriendly caves. Dileriyen was alive, but poisoned and in the Spiders' keeping...
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A/N: My poor girl :(((
