Graffiti decorations

Under a sky of dust

A constant wave of tension

On top of broken trust

The lessons that you taught me

I learn were never true

Now I find myself in question

(They point the finger at me again)

Guilty by association

(You point the finger at me again)

I wanna run away

Never say goodbye

I wanna know the truth

Instead of wondering why

I wanna know the answers

No more lies

I wanna shut the door

And open up my mind

Linkin Park- "Runaway"
Lothlorien

Celebruthiel walked in a daze, though for how long she was not certain. Her feelings were like the tide, ever flowing and changing. First was the indescribable anger. She couldn't believe Gandalf was really gone. How dare he abandon her? He was to be the buffer between herself and her mother. And then the guilt would set it. How could she be so selfish, thinking only of herself? Then came the unfathomable despair. What was she to do now, without Gandalf's council? She had been certain all answers had lain in him. She pulled back from the pain of the others. She couldn't handle their despair and doubts, not when her own ran so deep.

She guessed they had traveled halfway to Lothlorien when they stopped. Suddenly Aragorn turned, looking past Celebruthiel then he called Boromir to join him. She turned to see the two pick up Sam and Frodo, whom both had lagged far behind. As Aragorn ran past her carrying Frodo, Celebruthiel noticed for the first time the pasty color his complexion had taken. Sam didn't look quite as frightful, but was sporting a nasty cut on his forehead that needed attending.

Aragorn called to Gimli, requesting a fire as he first cleaned Sam's wound. Gimli went into immediate action, shouting orders to Boromir and Legolas for wood. Pippin and Merry hovered over Aragorn as he worked on Sam's cut, concerned for their two friends. Celebruthiel stood with the others for a moment. Once she realized her services would not be needed, she wandered away from the group. Once Aragorn was finished with Sam, he turned to Frodo and Sam went off to prepare some sort of meal.

"I am all right," Frodo insisted, uncomfortable at the attention he was receiving.

"You are not all right," Aragorn insisted. "I can't have you getting sick, Frodo. You must consider what would happen to the ring if you were to get sick because you refuse to have your injuries attended to."

Frodo realized how foolish he was being and began to remove the shirt and mithril coat he wore. Frodo sported several dark bruises and a painful wound where one of the links had embedded in his flesh.

As Aragorn tended the wound, Frodo glanced around. The other members were occupied with tasks. Boromir and Legolas were gathering wood for the fire Gimli was attending. Sam was preparing something while Merry and Pippin stood behind him, offering helpful suggestions that had Sam looking ready to hit them with a frying pan. At first Frodo thought Celebruthiel had wandered off and was about to warn the others. Then he spotted her sitting on the low branch of a large maple tree on the outskirts of their makeshift camp.

Aragorn followed Frodo's gaze. At the end he found Celebruthiel sitting in her own self imposed exile. Aragorn had been greatly disturbed by her presence on the onset of their journey. He had been afraid of the prospect of having to face Elrond and Arwen and explain her death to them. But Celebruthiel had surprised him. Aragorn had been proud of the way she had handled herself in Moria. And though he had been disturbed by the occurrences surrounding the wolf attack, Gandalf's ease of the situation had reassured him. Now he was even more worried. Gandalf had seemed to think she had a purpose to serve in all this. But now Gandalf was gone. What would become of Celebruthiel now? Should he even consider leaving her behind? Aragorn shook his head, realizing that her fear of Lorien was affecting his judgment. Even if he truly believed her presence was needed for the Fellowship to continue, Legolas would never allow it.

Frodo returned his gaze to Aragorn. He wished he could undercover the answers he sought behind Aragorn's eyes. But those eyes were unreadable. It didn't take long since leaving Moria for Frodo to realize two of their members did not want to reach Lothlorien. Gimli, he understood, as there was no love lost between Dwarves and Elves. But Celebruthiel was returning to her mother's people. Her behavior confused Frodo.

"Aragorn, I get the feeling Celebruthiel does not want to go to Lorien. And I guess I am just wondering why."

Aragorn looked up from Frodo's wound, as he cleaned it. He was not surprised at the Hobbit's observation even though Celebruthiel had carefully tried to disguise her feelings.

"She has her heart set against that place. She feels her reasons are just, but they are hers alone. Let us have no more talk of unpleasantness for Lothlorien is just before us."

"Why will no one discuss the reasons for her accompanying us?" Frodo questioned as he grabbed hold of Aragorn's arm. "Is it so very awful then?"

"Frodo, I do not even know the whole of it. I believe only Gandalf, Elrond, and Galadriel know all. But what I do know is not safe to discuss outside of Rivendell or Lorien. I don't know for certain if we will ever be told the truth of the matter. That decision will be for Galadriel and Celebruthiel to make," Aragorn replied, refusing to look Frodo in the eye and so he bent over his wound once again.

"I know the Ring calls to her," Frodo whispered, fright creeping into his voice. "It tried to abandon me on Caradhras, I think, in the hope that she would retrieve it."

Aragorn's hands, which had been cleaning the wound with water and athelas, stilled. He looked up a Frodo, shaken by his statement.

"Yes," Aragorn murmured. "And if I was to say Elrond is not her father, would all make sense to you?"

"I don't." Frodo began but Aragorn raised his hands to ward off any further questions.

"I have said more than I should. I can say no more," Aragorn stood and left Frodo alone to put his clothing back on.

Frodo replayed the conversation in his head several times, each time hoping something would stand out that made everything clear. But there was nothing. Elrond was not Celebruthiel's father? Then who could it be? Finally his mind settled on the Wizard, Saruman. And for Frodo, everything began to fall into place. Saruman was searching for Celebruthiel, Gandalf had said as much. And Saruman was in league with Sauron.

"Yes it makes perfect sense," thought Frodo. "The Ring must sense her kinship with Saruman, and through him sees it's way home." Frodo nodded in affirmation. He felt much relief. As of yet, she'd given him no indication of being a threat. She could have very easily stripped him of his burden one of any of a dozen of times. But she hadn't. And he now realized his anxiety when encountering Celebruthiel's presence was due to the Ring wanting to go to her, not the other way around. Frodo felt as if one of the many weights he'd been carrying around had suddenly been lifted. As he glanced at those sitting around the fire, he wished he could feel as certain about the others.

As everyone finished the tasks they were to complete, they began to congregate around the fire, the smell of food drawing them in. As Legolas turned to join his friends, he noticed Celebruthiel still sitting on the tree limb, her legs swinging back and forth as she appeared to be in deep thought.

"You must come and eat something," Legolas said as he approached her, his feet making not a sound on the grass.

"I will have plenty of time to eat once we reach Lorien," she replied bitterly, looking at Legolas' somber face as he approached. Her raised voice caused those sitting around the fire to glance at the two Elves curiously. "There is no need to be so sad, Legolas. Smile, for you will soon be rid of me." She swung down from the tree limb and gracefully landed on her feet. She moved to brush past Legolas, but his hand snaked out so quickly Celebruthiel didn't realize until she was imprisoned in his arms. He forced her to stand in front of him and he grasped her chin so she would look him in the eye.

"Yes, I will smile when we reach Lorien. Is that so terribly wrong? It will be over and you will be safe. I will no longer be under this shadow, afraid I will have to witness your death," he whispered, giving life to his deepest fears.

"Over! It will never be over for me. I will always be his daughter. You do not understand this!" She fought against his hold, for he represented everything she at the moment hated: Elrond for lying to her, her mother for not wanting her, and Gandalf for leaving her. She fought with her hands and her fists, while Legolas just stood his ground, tightening his grip around her to prevent her from hurting herself in her thrashing. Finally, exhausted, she sagged against him and cried deeply, like she had never imagined possible.

Those sitting around the fire were shocked to see Celebruthiel like this when they had all thought her so strong, so in tune with her destiny, not frightened of what lay ahead like the rest of them.

Pippin moved to stand, to somehow try to help her, so frightened by what he was witnessing.

"No, Pip," Merry said, grabbing his arm. "Let them be."

"But Merry," Pippin pleaded, for her weeping broke his heart.

"No Pippin," Merry repeated. "It is not our concern and we should not get involved."

Pippin slumped back to the ground, not agreeing with Merry, but unwilling to fight him on it since the rest of the Company appeared to concur.

Legolas swept Celebruthiel into his arms and turned his back on their companions, walking beyond the copse of trees surrounding them out of sight of the others. He knew Celebruthiel would be mortified when she realized the others had witnessed her breakdown. So he carried her away from their prying eyes to save her from any further embarrassment.

Celebruthiel finally felt as if she had cried all the tears possible. For the first time she felt emotionally drained as if she had nothing left in her and it was a relief to feel absolutely nothing for once.

"You should have just let me leave while I could still walk away," Celebruthiel whispered brokenly against Legolas' shoulder as he cradled her tightly in his arms.

Legolas sat on the ground then gently grasped her face in his hands to look into her eyes.

"I could not do that. Whatever is occurring here, whatever this is about, it has been destined. Our betrothal was part of that, otherwise my father would not have signed it," he replied huskily as he brushed the stray tears from her cheeks with his thumbs.

"How can you be so certain?"

"Before Gandalf," Legolas paused a moment and glanced away, unable to finish that sentence. "Anyway, before, he said something that leads me to believe there is more to this then just your parentage. And whatever it is, only Galadriel can explain it. So I want you in Lorien as quickly as possible.

"I sense it also. The wolves," her whisper was barely audible for the memory still left her shaken.

"What about the wolves," Legolas demanded, concerned that maybe she had remembered something about that night, something Gandalf had thought best forgotten.

"The first wolf, the one with the eyes of a man, I think he cast some sort of spell on me. I was unable to move until you killed it and then the spell was broken. I do not think it was really a wolf," she confided softly, unable to look Legolas in the eyes and so she stared at his chin.

"You should have told me this sooner," Legolas chided. "Unlike everything else we have encountered, which seems to have targeted Frodo alone, the wolves seemed to be after something else. I think Gandalf knew this also."

"But what?" she asked softly.

"Not what, but who. You, Celebruthiel. And to find out why, we must ask Galadriel," Legolas answered, smoothing the hair from her tear stained face.

With a sigh of resignation, Celebruthiel replied," All right. We go to Lorien."

"Kala, please explain to me this resistance to Lorien. I do not understand this hostility you hold towards Galadriel." Legolas caressed her cheek as his gaze probed hers, searching its depths for an answer to explain her behavior.

Celebruthiel lowered her eyes as she gave thought to that which she had repeatedly tried to push from her mind. She felt the panic rising in her.

"Look at me, Kala," Legolas whispered.

Celebruthiel did as requested and her gaze slowly rose to his. The love and reassurance she found in the depths of those dark blue eyes drove the fear away and she felt an odd sense of calm overcome her.

"It is not exactly hostility I feel towards her. And you are correct in assuming I do not wish to go to Lorien because of my mother. I do not want to see the rejection in her eyes when she sees me," she finally admitted and felt as if by just giving voice to her fear, a huge weight had been lifted.

"Is that what you really believe, my love?" Legolas questioned, surprised by her admission.

"What else can I believe? I am not a child created from the love between Galadriel and Celeborn, not like Celebrian was. No, I was forced upon her. I can only imagine what she must have felt. It had to have been a relief to let Gandalf take me to Elrond, to never have to look upon my face again. And Celeborn, how he must loath me and everything I represent. Yes, I would rather face Mordor than Galadriel and Celeborn." Celebruthiel felt tears begin to trickle down her cheeks again.

"Oh, my love," Legolas whispered as he kissed her forehead. "I never realized you thought this. Please do not cry. It will be all right, you'll see. If I felt in my heart that anyone in Lorien would mistreat you, I would not hesitate in ignoring your father's wishes and take you somewhere else. And once we reach Lorien, if what you fear comes to be, I will remove you from that place, even if it requires abandoning the Quest. I will take you to Mirkwood and guard you myself."

Celebruthiel sighed as Legolas' words broke through her despair.

"No, you must not even think this. Mirkwood is barely keeping the Evil at bay now. If all the dark power of Mordor turned it's eye to Mirkwood, it would not withstand. I would not risk all I hold dear, not even for myself. " With each word spoken, Celebruthiel resigned herself to what was to come in Lorien. She would not subject the Woodland Elves to such evil. No, she must believe in Gandalf's words, for only in Lorien would she be safe.

****

It soon became evident to those left sitting around the fire that Legolas and Celebruthiel had no plans to return anytime soon. The daylight was starting to wan, and the Fellowship grew anxious as they each realized darkness would be settling over them soon.

"We can not stay much longer," Boromir finally said to the group, but he looked directly at Aragorn. Since Gandalf's death, Aragorn had taken over the direction of the group ad the rest had gladly let him.

Aragorn sighed. He knew Boromir was right, But his heart ached. He wanted to give Celebruthiel all the time she needed until she had accustomed herself to the notion of returning to Lorien. But they were running out of time and Aragorn's first responsibility had to be to Frodo and the Ring. As soon as darkness settled on the land, the Orcs would begin hunting them. Aragorn had to get Frodo to the Forests of Lothlorien so he would be safe.

"I will find Legolas and Celebruthiel, then we continue," Aragorn stated as he stood. With he back to the others, he headed in the direction Legolas had taken.

****

Legolas' keen Elven hearing picked up movement from those sitting around the fire. He ascertained the light steady step of Aragorn coming in their direction.

"Kala," he whispered in her ear. Celebruthiel looked up at him with eyes, unfocused and distant. Legolas knew she was unaware of Aragorn's approach. She suddenly tensed in his arms, finally aware that someone was coming. "It is only Aragorn."

Celebruthiel relaxed once again as her lips brushed his softly. Then she pulled away from Legolas and stood before turning to him and helping him up. Legolas enclosed her in his arms again, not yet ready to let her go.

"Are you going to be okay?" he asked as he bent his head to her, their foreheads touching. Legolas silently willed his strength to pass to Celebruthiel. Having her so battered and broken before him was torturing him and he prayed for the day he could avenge her.

Celebruthiel felt something taking root inside her, a determination to carrying on no matter what happened. "Yes. It will be all right," she replied softly and for the first time she believed the words.

Just then Aragorn broke through the underbrush. Legolas lightly kissed Celebruthiel again before the two Elves separated and turned to Aragorn.

"I am sorry," Aragorn began with a heavy heart," but we must continue on."

Celebruthiel's eyes connected with Aragorn's and he shifted uncomfortably. Celebruthiel was confused by Aragorn's actions. Without waiting for a response, Aragorn turned to leave. Celebruthiel moved quickly to catch up to him, grabbing his arm to prevent his forward motion. Aragorn stiffened, but refused to face her, even when she tugged at his arm. Celebruthiel walked around Aragorn's silent form, stopping in front of him. She gazed into his eyes questioningly. Aragorn tried to avoid the contact and his heart about broke when she whispered his name.

"Oh Aragorn," she whispered again, surprised by what she'd uncovered in his blue depths. "Do not distress so, my King. Once safe with the Forests of Lothlorien, you will no longer been torn between your duty and your family. Your family will be safe and you can continue on assured in that knowledge." Celebruthiel paused as she touched Aragorn's cheek. His hand covered over hers lightly. "I am so sorry. I never meant for my insecurities to involve you."

"I know you did not," he whispered in reply. "But, my dear sister, I can see what you have been trying to hide from others and I wish I could make things better for you."

"You can," Celebruthiel insisted. "You can protect Frodo and see that this deed is done. With Gandalf gone, they need you now. But they need all of you, not just a part. You must promise once you leave Lorien, you will try to forget about us, about me."

"Celebruthiel," Aragorn protected, "that is absurd!"

"No, Aragorn, you must promise. I will be okay. And you cannot afford the wasted energy worrying about things you cannot change. Concentrate on what you can, please."

Aragorn took a deep breath then released it slowly. "All right," he agreed with a slight nod of his head. "I will try this thing that you ask."

Celebruthiel smiled and the black cloud that had been covering her lifted. Legolas and Aragorn also felt relief, as if a sense of peace had settled on the three and the tasks they had set out to accomplish could actually be completed.

****

Pippin had never felt such alleviation when Celebruthiel, Legolas, and Aragorn returned to the campsite. He jumped up from his spot in front of the fire and ran to her. Celebruthiel laughed as Pippin's little body made contact with her own, almost knocking her off her feet as he wrapped his arms around her thighs.

"Dear sweet Pippin," Celebruthiel murmured as she crouched down to his level and hugged him. "I am sorry for distressing you."

Pippin looked up at the beautiful face looming before him. None of the earlier uncertainty remained in its iridescent smoothness. She seemed to have recovered from whatever it was that had transpired between herself and Legolas.

"I was scared," Pippin confided softly as he hugged her again.

"I know," Celebruthiel whispered as she returned his embrace. "But everything is okay now."

"Do you promise?" Pippin asked with child-like uncertainty.

"Yes," she confirmed with a smile that put Pippin to ease.

"Pack quickly," Aragorn ordered. "We must leave now."

Celebruthiel pulled away from Pippin. "Do as Aragorn says. Once we reach Lorien, things will be better, you will see." Pippin nodded and with one last smile, Celebruthiel turned from him and went to retrieve her things.

In twenty minutes, they were on the move, quickly trying to make up for lost time. This time instead of trailing behind the group, Celebruthiel led with Aragorn and Legolas by her side. Now that she was no longer raged against reaching Lorien, she realized she had this strange sense of returning home, though she did not recognize the woods that loomed before them. They finally reached the edge of Lothlorien as night was falling. Once within the cluster of trees, they lessened their frantic pace.

"Stay close, you hobbits. They say a great sorceress lives in these woods. An elf witch of terrible power. All who look upon her fall under her spell," Gimli stated from behind Celebruthiel, "and are never seen again."

Gimli's voice faded as Celebruthiel heard a whisper on the wind. She stilled and listened intently.

"Welcome home, my daughter," the voice greeted and Celebruthiel could not mistake the joy she heard in it.

"Celebruthiel?" Legolas questioned as he watched her. She had stopped moving and appeared to be listening to the breeze. She reached out and squeezed Legolas' hand as she smiled at him. Then she continued on, following Aragorn who had already moved ahead of them.

"Well, here's one dwarf she won't snare so easily. I have the eyes of a hawk and the ears of a fox," Gimli rambled.

Suddenly they were surrounded, arrows pointing at them from all direction. Legolas had sensed them first, but even he was not quick enough. He got bow and arrow ready to fire, only to find an arrow pointed at his back.

"The dwarf breathes so loud we could have shot him in the dark," the blond elf in charge stated with contempt.

"Haldir," Celebruthiel whispered, not at all certain how she knew this Elf's name, only that she did. "Rumil, Orophin" she thought as she looked to the Elves flanking his sides.

Before any of the Elves could even notice her, Aragorn stepped forward. "Haldir o Lorien. Henio aniron, boe ammen I dulu lin. Boe amen veriad lin. (Haldir of Lorien. We come here for help. We need your protection.)"

"Aragorn! There woods are perilous. We should go back!" Gimli shouted, fearing for his life amid these Elves.

"You have entered the realm of the Lady of the Wood. You cannot go back," Haldir announced, as he eyed Gimli unfavorably. "At first light, we will take you to her, for she is waiting." There was chattering from above them and ladders made from gray rope descended from the trees. "We have heard rumors of your coming for messengers of Elrond passed by Lorien. The four Hobbits can climb up and stay with us, for we do not fear them." Haldir and Rumil talked amongst themselves briefly, then Haldir turned to Aragorn. "We have not had dealings with Dwarves since the Dark Days. They are not permitted on our lands. But Aragorn son of Arathorn, you are known to us in Lorien. And so, though it is against our liking, if you will guard him and answer for him, he may pass." Aragorn agreed to this, then Haldir pointed to the ladders. "You cannot stay on the ground, so the rest of you must climb to the talan in the next tree."

Celebruthiel gave Legolas' hand a quick tug and then quickly climbed up the ladder before any notice was given to her. She wanted time to try and figure out how she knew the names of the three, to see if she could come up with some answers on her own. For some reason, she felt it best to avoid a confrontation, though she couldn't for the life of her understand where these feelings were coming from.

Aragorn and then Boromir joined her. Celebruthiel heard a muttering voice from below the wooden structure. She leaned over the side and couldn't help the giggle that was issued forth. Gimli was about one-fourth the way up the ladder and Legolas was below him, trying to push him up.

"Do you need some help?" she called down, laughter ringing from her voice.

"If beings were meant to reside in trees, Mistress Celebruthiel, we would have been given wings," Gimli mumbled under his breath as he tried to reach upward to grab the next rung. The ladder swayed, causing Gimli to clutch the rope where he was and eliciting a curse from Legolas.

There was laughter from the ground and the trees surrounding them. Celebruthiel noticed the Lorien Elves had also decided to watch the Dwarf's progress and found it very amusing.

"Concentrate, Gimli," Legolas ordered sharply. "And you are not helping, my love," he called to Celebruthiel. Legolas gave Gimli another push, using his shoulder to try to force the Dwarf to ascend higher.

Celebruthiel leaned farther over the edge, her silver hair cascading over the edge of the talan and down her arm as she reached out her hand. "Grab my hand, Master Gimli. It can only work better with three than two."

"I thank you for your offer, My Lady, but you shouldn't be exerting yourself so," Gimli mumbled under his breath as he tried to reach once again for the next ladder rung.

"What should I do then, my friend? Watch as you break every one of my dear husband's bones when you finally knock him to the ground and land on top of him?" Celebruthiel teased as she propped her chin under her free hand.

"Just grab her hand, Gimli, before I climb over you and let you fall on your rear," Legolas grumbled as he heard Aragorn and Boromir snickering from behind Celebruthiel. "How did I end up babysitting the Dwarf?" Celebruthiel heard Legolas mumble under his breath and began laughing in earnest. She just could not help herself.

"I heard that!" Gimli stated indignantly.

"My love, for your laughter, I will get even," Legolas promised as he gave Gimli another push and sent him up the ladder, almost in reach of Celebruthiel's hand.

"So should I rescind my offer of help then," she asked, trying to sound as innocent as possible, though halfway through the sentence, a peal of laughter squeaked out, ruining the effect.

"Only if you want to see me dead, because that is where I will be if you do not get this Dwarf off of me soon," Legolas groaned, certain one more minute of holding Gimli up was going to kill him.

Aragorn, though still laughing at the sight before him, reached over alongside Celebruthiel. They each grasped one of Gimli's hands. So between Celebruthiel and Aragorn pulling at Gimli from above and Legolas pushing from below, the three finally managed to get Gimli in the talan. Once the spectacle was over, the Lorien Elves all went back to their own tasks. Legolas sat just inside the wooden platform, trying to recover his strength. Gimli crawled into a corner and could be heard snoring in only a matter of moments.

"Sure, I do all the work, and he sleeps," Legolas stated, motioning to the sleeping Dwarf.

Celebruthiel crawled over to Legolas. "I do believe you will survive, my love," she teased.

"Next time you lug the Dwarf on your back and we shall see," Legolas sulked and Celebruthiel laughed loudly. She wrapped her arms around his shoulders and kissed his lips softly. Legolas sighed and pulled her against him, enjoying the feel of her against him as he deepened the kiss. He sighed again when she pulled away from him as they both heard Pippin whisper her name from the tree beside them.

"Go to sleep, my little dear," Celebruthiel replied softly. "I will see you in the morning."

"Good night," he called.

Merry's voice, telling Pippin to shut up, drifted over to them, causing Celebruthiel to begin giggling again. She placed a hand over her mouth as Gimli mumbled something in his sleep. This caused Celebruthiel, Legolas, Aragorn, and Boromir to chuckle and release some of the tension they had been carrying with them since entering Moria.

Soon after, Aragorn and Boromir were lulled to sleep by the tree boughs blowing in the wind. Celebruthiel and Legolas sat to the far side, not wanting to bother their companions, but also not comfortable in the thought of leaving them to join the Elves they heard scampering around them.

Only a couple of hours had passed when a head popped up through the hole in the wooden floor. Celebruthiel and Legolas had been talking softly, trying to determine why she would know the names of Haldir and his two brothers.

"Yrch!" the newcomer hissed, giving warning to the threat that could be heard passing underneath a short distance away. He disappeared as quickly and silently as he had come.

"Pippin," Celebruthiel said softly, worried that he would be frightened with the threat of Orcs so close.

"He will be fine," Legolas murmured as he reached across the platform for their bows. He notched an arrow, then laid the bow on his lap as he peered down at the ground. They both sat ever watchful until the threat had passed and they felt relatively safe again.

At dawn, another Elf came to awaken them. "Tolo," he said as he motioned the five to follow him to the ground. Haldir, Rumil, and the Hobbits were waiting for them below.

"Orcs passed through here during the night. Orophin has gone back to warn our people and soon the whole northern border will be hidden with Elves. We must take you south with all haste," Haldir explained as the small group of Elves prepared to leave.

Haldir turned to lead the group when the Elf named Rumil called his name. He was standing before Celebruthiel with a stunned look upon his face. "Canch, nin gwador? (You called, my brother?)"

Aragorn was uncertain what to make of this sudden interest in Celebruthiel. He had assumed from statements made by Elrond and Gandalf that no one in Lorien, save for Galadriel and Celeborn, would remember Celebruthiel due to the forgetting spell. He made a move to step forward, but found his way blocked by a Lorien Elf whom was also uncertain of Rumil's interest in the female Elf.

When Rumil did not reply, Haldir returned to his side. He drew in a sharp breath when his gaze fell upon Celebruthiel.

"Mirriel," Haldir said under his breath, his surprise apparent to all who looked upon him. The Elves surrounding them shifted uncomfortably.

"Nin esta nauva Celebruthiel (My name is Celebruthiel)," she corrected softly, thinking he must be confused. She hadn't expected that anyone in Lorien would know of her or have any memory of her. And the stance of the other Elves told Celebruthiel that they knew of the Elf named Mirriel.

"Sen naurvatha nain ned Imladris can le, Kala, sen u-naurva le esta nana annan le (That may be what those in Rivendell call you, Kala, but that is not the name your mother gave you)," he replied softly as his hand reached out to touch her. He seemed to think better of it because it fell to his side from mid-air. "Ha u-naurva gol an pedo ned nad hollen ammen glan (But it is not wise to speak of such things this close to our border)."

"Kala- agorech ista i esta nin ada annan im. E a nin hervann can im Kala (Kala- You know the name my father gave me. Only he and my husband call me Kala)," Celebruthiel stated, confusion settling over her.

Haldir's face clouded over in anger. He turned without replying and quickly headed down the path. "Toro! (Come!)" he yelled over his shoulder.

Haldir's sudden change in attitude caught Celebruthiel off guard. She turned to Rumil for answers.

"Carn im ped raeg nad, Rumil? (Did I say something, wrong, Rumil?)" she asked softly.

"U-car istach men, carch? (You do not remember us, do you?)" the tall pale blond Elf asked, a sadness encompassing his voice. Celebruthiel shook her head and he sighed. "Kala i epesse Haldir annanch amann io. Inyen i Curunir u-thurinch o ammen, naurvach si i hervess o nin gwador. (Kala was the nickname Haldir gave you long ago. If the Wizard had not taken you from us, you would now be the wife of my brother.)"

"Gweriach! (You deceive!)" Legolas hissed.

Rumil ignored the Woodland Elf and said to Celebruthiel, "Sacch gur. Ennas istathach im pedo thenid. (Search your heart. There you will know I speak the truth.)"

Celebruthiel stumbled forward, a long forgotten memory besieging her. The stench consumed her, the smell of decaying flesh mixed with her own gut wrenching fear. She was hidden in the underbrush as the rumble of many feet grew louder and voice called out in distress. As she peered out of her hiding space, she saw them, the blackened faces adding to her fright and causing a silent prayer to be uttered from her mouth as she squeezed her eyes tightly shut. Her tall blond savior had appeared the next day, finding her trembling form amid the bushes. She had clung to him that day and many others until the one who was to become her mother was found and brought home.

When Celebruthiel regained her senses, Legolas was being restrained by two Elves, while Rumil had his arms placed around her waist. If it was not for his support, she would not be still standing. Celebruthiel pulled away from Rumil quickly.

"Leithiach Legolas! (Release Legolas!)" Celebruthiel demanded.

The two Elves looked to Rumil for confirmation. Rumil nodded and they released Legolas. He immediately took Celebruthiel into his arms.

"Peditham o sen ab. (We will speak of this later.)," she whispered. She hoping the love shining in her eyes would be enough to convince him that everything would be all right.

"We must get moving," Rumil said to the group as a whole. He started after Haldir while his companions prodded the Company to follow.

Except for Aragorn, the rest of the Fellowship was uncertain of what had occurred. They were not very pleased to be traveling with these Lorien Elves, not after the hostility displayed between Haldir and Legolas. Legolas was their friend and since he seemed to have a problem with these Elves, the rest felt they did also, even though they had no idea what the problem was. Aragorn wished he was as in the dark as the rest of his companions. Knowing what had occurred between Celebruthiel and Haldir only made things seem more complicated. And he also wondered how he was going to be able to leave her behind now. He wasn't certain Legolas would agree to Celebruthiel remaining with an Elf that should have been her husband had things turned out differently.

When they reached a steady stream that ran through the forest, it became evident they would have to cross it. The only way over was a slender bridge made from two ropes. The bigger members of the Company had no problems getting across. Celebruthiel was worried about the Hobbits and Gimli, though. Pippin, to her relief, had no difficulty getting across at all as he moved quickly and only needed one hand to hold on. Once across the Celebrant, the Company came to a halt. Haldir turned to them, all anger having been walked out of his system.

"As is our law, I must blindfold the Dwarf. The rest of you can walk freely until we come nearer our dwellings," Haldir said.

This cased Gimli to become incensed, refusing to be blindfolded and instead insisting he would return the way they had come.

""You cannot go back," Haldir said sternly. "Now you have come this far, you must be brought before the Lord and the Lady. They shall judge you, to hold you or to give you leave, as they will. You cannot cross the rivers again, and behind you there are now secret sentinels that you cannot pass. You would be slain before you saw them.""

Gimli drew he axe and the Lorien Elves responded in like with their bows. With a hand restraining Gimli's arm, Aragorn stated that they would all be blindfolded. So the process began as each was blindfolded in turn.

""I shall claim full amends for every fall and stubbed toe, if you do not lead us well," said Gimli as they bound a cloth about his eyes. "You will have no claim," said Haldir. "I shall lead you well, and the paths are smooth and straight.""

When it became Celebruthiel's turn, Haldir stayed the hand of the Elf who was about to put the cloth over her eyes.

"The daughter of our Lady needs no binding," Haldir insisted. There was a murmuring among the Elves as Celebruthiel's true parentage was acknowledged.

"Did he just say what I thought he said?" Boromir asked quietly, leaning toward Aragorn's ear. They were the only two who had yet to have their eyes covered.

"Yes. Celebruthiel has been away from here since she was a small child and has no real memory of this place. We weren't certain she would even be remembered." Aragorn said as he glanced at Boromir.

"Well apparently she has been," Boromir commented dryly. "Is that what that scene was about back there?"

Aragorn just nodded before moving his head so that the Elf that had moved behind him could more easily place the covering over his face.

Once they were ready to continue their journey, it became apparent that only Haldir and Rumil would continue on with them. The rest of the Lorien Elves set off in different directions to guard the forest from any Orcs that might still be in the area. As they made their way deeper into the forest, Celebruthiel was too preoccupied with keeping a close watch on her companions that she was not able to enjoy the beauty around her. Even though Haldir had assured their safe continuance, Celebruthiel still felt it her duty to be their eyes. Since Aragorn and Legolas were lighter on their feet than the rest, they were the two she was worried about the least. She found herself hovering over Sam and Gimli the most, as they seemed to have the most difficulties navigating their surroundings without their vision.

They marched all day at a slow and steady pace. Celebruthiel found as time passed, those blindfolded began walking with a surer step, relying on their other senses to navigate them. As they broke though the trees, Celebruthiel gasped at the sight before her. They had entered an open field where the sun shone brightly. Its rays warmed her skin and she basked in the glory she beheld. To her left was a great mound covered in bright green grass. Upon it were two circles of trees: a leafless outer circle had bark the color of snow; the inner circle were large mallorn-trees of pale gold. Surrounding the base and all about the hillside was thick green grass and golden flowers shaped like stars.

A band of Elves were marching North and they paused, the leader approaching Haldir. They eyed the Company curiously, many particularly interested in Celebruthiel. She quickly realized word had already spread of her return. Why these Elves still retained memory of her, she still was uncertain. And the fact that they did only made her more nervous since she remembered next to nothing.

They quickly discussed the band of Orcs that had been mostly destroyed and what remained was being pursued. Also an odd creature had been seen in the wood, one that ran like a beast, but was not of beast shape. It had evaded the Elves chasing it and vanished Southward. And lastly was a message from Galadriel and Celeborn.

"My Lord and Lady have sent a message. You are all to walk freely, even the dwarf." He removed Gimli's bandages first. ""You pardon!" he said bowing low. "Look on us now with friendly eyes! Look and be glad, for you are the first Dwarf to behold the trees of the Naith of Lorien since Darin's Day! Behold! You are come to Cerin Amroth."

There were gasps around as each blindfold was removed and it's wearer got his first view of the beauty surrounding them.

"Is it true? Has she really returned?" she overheard this newcomer ask Haldir.

Haldir gave a slight nod in the direction were she stood, clinging to Legolas' hand. He was tense and she knew he had not gotten over what Rumil had revealed earlier that morning. As this new Elf approached Celebruthiel, Legolas took a step forward. The newcomer looked at Legolas, clearly not surprised by his existence either, for he had already been warned that their Princess was returning with a husband. So he continued to approach, though now warily.

"My lady," he said as he bowed before her, "I am Tirgon. I wanted to be the first to welcome you home. If you are ever in need of anything, you only have to ask."

"Thank you," Celebruthiel replied softly, stunned by the respect being placed upon her by Tirgon and the other Elves, who following Tirgon's lead, bowed down also. She could only assume they did not know the truth about her father, for she felt unworthy of their respect and devotion.

Tirgon smiled at Celebruthiel before he turned to Legolas. "And welcome Legolas Greenleaf, our kindred from the North and husband of our fair Princess."

"I thank you for your welcome," Legolas responded to Tirgon and the rest of the band of Elves.

Tirgon stood then returned to Haldir's side. Then the band continued on their way, waving as they headed toward the Northern edge of the forest.

Legolas sank to the fragrant grass, pulling Celebruthiel beside him. They lay there, touching from head to toe, hands entwined and eyes closed, letting the earth seep into their souls. Celebruthiel was uncertain of how long they lay there. Finally she sensed a peacefulness eradiating from Legolas and thought this to be the best time to broach the subject of Haldir. She wanted it out of the way before they reached Galadrim, the Great City of Lorien. She leaned up on an elbow and looked down upon Legolas. He opened one eye, but seemed to not like the look upon her face, for he closed it quickly.

"We must discuss this," she whispered as her fingers flittered across his cheek.

Legolas grabbed her hand and removed it from his face. "I would rather not," he replied tersely.

Celebruthiel almost got up and walked away, thinking if he was going to act like a child, he deserved to wallow in his misery. But then she thought better of it, because she did not want to have to deal with Legolas and her mother at the same time.

"Legolas, please do not act like this. It is not how it sounds, at least not for me," she whispered, even the beauty of Cerin Amroth could not keep away the sadness she felt at this situation not of her making.

Legolas openned his eyes and looked up at her angrily. Celebruthiel took a mental step backward, uncertain how to proceed. Legolas had never been angry with her before, not like this. This might have been what she would have had to contend with if he hadn't learned the truth about her father before he had confronted her. But she had not had to deal with that.

"I remembered something earlier, Legolas. I was with Celebrian when she was taken by the Orcs." Celebruthiel paused and Legolas sat up, surprised. "She hid me and used herself as bait so I would be saved. Haldir found me. I was only a small child and thought myself in love who that Elf who had become my hero. I do not think it was long after Celebrian's return that Gandalf took us both to Rivendell." She paused again and pried her hand from Legolas' grip, returning it to his cheek. "It was a child's infatuation, nothing more. I can say nothing for Haldir's feelings as I do not remember them. But I do remember how I felt then. It does not compare to how I feel now. You are my husband and that is what matters."

Legolas placed his hand over hers and leaned into her palm, closing his eyes. He brought her hand to his lips and placed a light kiss in her palm. Then he removed her hand from his face, using it to gently guide her beside him and into his arms where they laid pressed against each to her, her head cradled in the crock of his neck.

"I love you," he whispered hoarsely as he realized his anger could have driven her further from him. Things were difficult enough for Celebruthiel at present. His jealousy could have driven a wedge deeply between the two that might have been unrepairable. His heart would have been in shambles if she had returned to Haldir.

"I love you, also, since the first time I laid eyes on you," she replied softly. "I am so weary. I cannot fight you also, my love. I need you to believe my words and know they are what's in my heart."

"I do," he reassured. "His feelings do not matter because I believe in the vows we spoke. Your heart is mine as mine belongs to you. I am sorry for my anger. I was not expecting this."

"Neither was I, my love. If only I had remembered something when I first laid eyes on Haldir, Rumil, and Orophin. Why do you think that is?" she questioned.

"I do not know. Have you remembered anything of your mother?" Legolas asked as he ran his fingers through her hair. It felt like silk to his touch and he found the repetitive motion comforting.

"No, only of Celebrian, here in this forest," she replied as she rubbed her face against his tunic and snuggled closer to him.

Legolas thought about it for a while, but could come up with no answers. "It is a puzzle that keeps getting larger. I am anxious to get to Lorien so all questions can be answered."

Celebruthiel sighed and nodded against his shoulder.

"Rest with me, my love. It has been a trying time for the both of us. Let us not think of the past or of the future. Let me just hold you," Legolas said softly into her ear.

"Just hold me," she agreed with a sigh as Legolas tightened his hold on her and kissed the top of her head.
****

Haldir was showing Frodo the sights from Cerin Amroth when he turned from the view of South Mirkwood and saw Celebruthiel and Legolas lying on the fragrant grass, wrapped in each other's arms. A feeling of sadness settled over him as he watched the Elf who should have been his wife with her husband. He had loved the little girl whom he had found hidden in the forest so long ago. She had trusted few after Celebrian had been taken and had spent considerable time in his company. Celeborn had seen the bond that had formed between the two and had so approved of the match that he had set up the betrothal himself. Then Celebrian had returned and the White Council had sent Gandalf to take both away. Haldir had mourned the loss, thinking he would never see her again while in Middle Earth. Now she had returned to her home, with the man Elrond had picked for her. Haldir was almost glad for the threat to the Northern border, so he could take his guests to the City and then have an excuse to return to the forests. Even though he had released her from his mind all those many years ago, it was still difficult to see her now.

****

Pippin watched Celebruthiel and Legolas anxiously. He so wanted to talk to the two, but didn't want to interrupt them. He still wasn't sure he should trust these Elves, not after what had happened that morning. He wanted the reassurance only Celebruthiel could give him. He finally couldn't wait any longer, his patience having reached its limit.

"Celebruthiel?" he questioned as he approached the two slowly.

Both of the Elves eyes popped open. Legolas gave her waist a slight squeeze as he looked up to find Pippin hovering over them. Both sat up and folded their legs, sitting cross-legged.

"Is everything okay, Pippin?" he asked as he motion to the ground for Pippin to join them. Pippin sat down, folding his legs underneath him, as he sat beside Celebruthiel.

"I don't know," Pippin confided. "I am not certain I trust these Elves, not after this morning. And I do not think I am alone. You are our friend, Legolas, and we are confused and angered by the way you were treated this morning."

Celebruthiel remained silent, waiting to hear what Legolas' response would be. She knew he had been very angry this morning and wasn't sure he was willing to forgive quite so easily.

Legolas sighed. "Pippin, this morning was just a misunderstanding that has for the most part been resolved. These Elves are Celebruthiel's kin and they can be trusted completely. This I am certain of, for if I wasn't, we would not be here."

"Truly?" Pippin asked as he looked from Legolas to Celebruthiel, then back to Legolas.

"Yes, Pippin, truly," Legolas replied as he leaned over and placed a hand on Pippin's knee.

Celebruthiel was distracted when out of the corner of her eye, she saw Aragorn. He was standing at the foot of the hill, seemingly lost in thought. Celebruthiel stood and approached him, hoping the memory that held him was a good one.

"Arwen vanimelda, namarie," he whispered as he drew a fragrant bloom to his nose and inhaled deeply.

Celebruthiel smiled as she came to the realization that this must be the spot Arwen had declared her love to Aragorn years ago. She turned the way she had come, leaving Aragorn with his memories, unwilling to disturb the small amount of peace he had managed to uncover here.

****

It wasn't until darkness began to fall that the Company resembled together and headed back into the woods, towards Galadriem. On the Southern side of the city, they crossed a white bridge and discovered the great gates to the City. They traveled along many paths and climbed many stairs until they came to a fountain amid a wide lawn lit by silver lamps that swung from the boughs of the trees. A white ladder stood and at it's base, three Elves sat, clothed in grey mail and white cloaks.

"Here dwell Celeborn and Galadriel," Haldir said as he motioned to what lay above the white ladder.

One of the Elves stood and blew into a horn. An answer was given from above. Haldir motioned for the group to follow him. They began the long climb up the ladder into the trees. Halfway up Gimli and the Hobbits began to seriously wonder if an end would ever be reached. At the top, they found a large house amid the treetops. Here Haldir stopped and turned to them.

"Mirriel, here is where you say goodbye to your companions."

"What!" Legolas exclaimed, ready to refuse such an order, for that was what it was, certainly not a request.

"Celeborn and Galadriel wish to speak to the Fellowship and then would like a private reunion with their daughter," Haldir paused and placed a hand on Legolas' arm. "I am to bring you to join them not long after they are reunited. The Lord and Lady hope you understand, for you have had Mirriel all these many years while they have been deprived of her lovely face. I give you my word that I personally will come for you when they are ready, as the Lord and Lady feel they have information that you deserve to hear."

Legolas nodded, not liking this decision made for him, but he knew he had no other choice.

"I will see you again, won't I" Pippin asked frantically as he clung to Celebruthiel's arm. The rest of the Fellowship seemed just as upset that this might be the last time they set eyes on her.

"You shall all see Mirriel later, as what happens after the reunion will be entirely up to her," Haldir responded. Haldir was surprised that this small group seemed ready to revolt at the prospect of losing Celebruthiel from their ranks, especially the little Hobbit and the Dwarf. It was a strange sight to see an Elf so entwined in the lives of these others.

Celebruthiel dropped to her knees so she could look into Pippin's eyes. "Pippin, I will find you as soon as I can. You cannot believe I would not at least say goodbye. But our time together is growing short, as I have reached the end of my quest, while you still have far to go. But do not fear, my dear friend, for it will take death to be rid of me now."

Pippin hugged her tightly before she stood. She and Legolas shared an embrace and a kiss, then she nodded to Haldir, indicating she was ready.

"Mirriel, Rumil will take you to wait for your parents," Haldir stated and then motioned for the rest to follow him into the house.

Celebruthiel and Rumil entered through the same doors, but while the Fellowship traveled down a long hallway leading off to the right, the two turned to the left where a small flight of stairs lay. They climbed upward then headed to the left again. Two guards stood outside two sets of doors. As Rumil approached, they opened them and the two stepped inside.

"Here you shall wait, Mirriel. The Lord and Lady should be along shortly, as they are anxious to be reunited," Rumil explained from just inside the doorway as Celebruthiel stepped farther inside and looked around. They were standing in a study, which Celebruthiel guessed was Celeborn's since Elrond's was very similar. But on the far side of the room three sets of silver curtains that hung down. Celebruthiel moved one so she could investigate. Behind them was a covered turret, open on three sides to the night air. The furniture inside the turret was more feminine in appearance and Celebrthiel sat down on the chaise to wait.