AUTHOR'S NOTE:
I know, I know! This is WAYYY past its promised deadline! A thousand apologies to those who have been patiently waiting. I promise to do better next time! I can't really be blamed, though. This chapter was a toughie! You'll see what I mean when you read it yourself. All the drama . . . all the intrigue . . . all the gut-wrenching sweetness . . . All worth it! Hehehe. . .
I can't miss out on the personal greetings (even if my arm already feels like it's about to fall off), 'cause all my reviewers have been so wonderful and supportive even if I have been so delinquent. So here goes. . .
DAGGER - Hey there! I am so glad you've come back! I am very glad you like it so far. I hope I'll continue to catch your attention so you won't wander off again!
ALYDE11 - Thank you very much! I am very flattered, but yes, good English is quite common for us Filipinos. ;p
KITTY - Always glad to have new reviewers on board! Hope you'll come again!
KIKA - Thank you so much! I certainly will do my best to be as good as you say I am! ;p At least one "brutal critic" likes my story. Many others have practically spit on it already!
AUSTRO GREENLEAF - Yeah, school does get in the way of more important things like fic writing! I am happy you like this! I'm way too shy for publication though. . . hehehe.
NOVVILYAIEL - Sorry to have kept you waiting for so long. I tried my best, really I did! Hope this makes up for your waiting!
PSYCHONUT - Of course! Legolas and Haldir forever! ;p
GLORYALCARINQUE - Wow! I didn't think those last two lines would be a hit with anybody! But thanks a mil for that! ;p
ARWENUNDOMIEL - No need to be envious. . . you're a great writer yourself! update your story soon pls!
CRYSTAL FIRE - Hehe. . . Orophin the tattletale! Glad you like the flower . . . it'll be pretty significant to the story later on. Yeah, if only I didn't love Haldir so much Legolas would have made him orc meat by now. Hehehe. . .
ILUVENIS - It's always a pleasure to hear from you. ;p thanks!
INSANE ORLI - Well, you think exactly like Armir does. How CAN Haldir compare to what Legolas gives her? Hmm. . . we shall see! ;p
ICY878 - I am so happy to hear you enjoyed the mush. Glad not everyone gets turned off by sweetness. . . hehehe. . . oh yeah, go Legolas of course!
LILENA - Haldir is not quite so "poor" yet. . . ;p wait and see . . . he's not quite out of the running just yet.
EARWEN of AL. - You will find all the answers you want here! ;p It's so good to hear someone finally appreciates the "royal jewel" name. Thanks!
SNOWMANE - Aw, shux. . . I'm really not all that. . But thanks for the booster anyways! Hope you'll like this one! ;p
MERENWEN - You go, Armir lover! ;p Hehehe. . . I'll always remember you for that!
ARAFANGWEN - Thank you so much for the compliments! I was afraid I would be no good at writing action scenes, but thanks to you I guess I'm not that bad after all! ;p This story will go on for six (6) more chapters. . still rather long. Reviews are always encouraging; that's all there is to it. It helps me know people are reading my work and enjoying it, so the hours of racking my brains and typing don't go to waste! If you're curious about what Armir's fate will be . . .you'll just have to keep reading coz I'm not gonna give anything away!
Whew! That's done! And now. . . on with the chapter I've worked so damn hard to finish!
HAPPY READING!
* * *
THE SACRIFICE
Chapter Nine - Counsel
Blue eyes sparkling blissfully, Armir gazed out at the gleaming waters of the Silverlode from where she and Legolas sat at its bank. It was yet another fair evening in the Lothlorien, but something about this certain night made the whole wood seem even more enchanting and serene to the maiden's eyes. Perhaps it was the way the soft moonlight glinted upon the gently rushing river, making it seem like a stream of silver silk. Maybe it was the feeling of the sweet, forest-scented breeze that swept their surroundings, or the sight of thousands of stars shining down upon them from the ebon sky above.
"Have you ever seen anything more beautiful in your life?" she asked Legolas happily.
She turned her head slightly in his direction, waiting for a comment or answer to her inquiry. She then realized that he had been staring at her longingly this whole time, his usually keen eyes dazed and entranced as they studied her face.
"Never." he finally whispered, reaching up to sweep away the hair strands whipping about her face. "Nothing can be more beautiful."
Armir laughed and poked him playfully on the arm. "I get the feeling we are not speaking of the same things here." she admonished him.
Legolas grinned back. "Maybe so, but I am quite certain my thoughts are more accurate than yours." he teased, nipping her earlobe affectionately.
Armir smiled and kissed his jawline, then snuggled back against him where she sat on his lap. She closed her eyes contentedly and rested her head on his chest, sensing immediate comfort in the warmth of his presence and the familiar woodsy-scent of his clothes. She felt a surge of lightheadedness wash over her brought about by the feeling of him so near. It was then that she understood exactly what made this night seem so wonderful.
Over the past month in Lorien, the two of them had been practically inseparable. They had spent most of the days enjoying each other's company, finding themselves growing deeper and deeper in love with each moment. Armir honestly felt that Legolas cherished her and made her happier than any other being on Middle Earth ever could. She in turn cared for him with all her heart and soul, more profoundly than she ever thought possible. For the first time in her life, she had found someone who was able to make her truly happy even away from her home and loved ones. She learned to no longer worry about where she was or what went on in the frenzied world around her- he was all she needed to feel completely safe.
Armir took the large, gentle hand that was caressing her hair and kissed it tenderly, then held it to her cheek with an inaudible sigh, wondering with a throbbing heart if he had any idea of just how much he meant to her.
"I wish we could stay this way forever." she murmured wistfully.
"I do too." Legolas agreed, wrapping both arms around her waist and pulling her closer to him. "If only we did not have to leave Lorien at all. . ."
His voice trailed off, and for a brief moment there was a melancholy silence between them. Aragorn had told them that morning they would most likely be leaving the Golden Wood in a few days, off to continue with their quest as planned. Already Armir could feel an ache in her heart at the mere thought of leaving this wonderful realm behind. Just when she was growing used to peace and freedom from troubles, duty was calling them to return to their dangerous mission.
Just then, she felt Legolas bury his face into the softness of her hair, his hold around her tightening protectively.
"I do not want you to face the hardships of this journey all over again." he muttered somberly. "You do not deserve to undergo any more pain or difficulties."
"None of us do." Armir said, stroking his arm caringly. "But we have no choice. We are bound to the Fellowship and to this quest. For the good of all, we will do what we must, even if it goes against our own desires."
There was another pause before Legolas spoke again, this time with iron resolution.
"Armir. . . I want you to stay."
"What?" Armir gasped, reacting instantly to his words. She turned to stare at the determined expression on his face.
"I have decided not to let you travel with us to Mordor any longer." Legolas told her firmly. "You should stay here in Lorien, where you will be safe."
Armir gaped at him. "Legolas, I cannot do that!" she exclaimed. "You know I must go with you! I. . . I am meant to remain with the Fellowship all the way."
Legolas shook his head. "We do not know that." he pointed out. "For all we know your task was merely to help Frodo get the ring this far, thus it is finished. There may be no need for you to go any further. Perhaps this is where the journey ends for you. It would probably be for the best."
Filled with sudden offense and denial, Armir pulled away from him and got to her feet. "Why are you telling me this?" she cried. "Why do you suddenly wish to leave me behind?"
"Because I want to spare you from any further grief." Legolas said gravely, standing up to face her. "Armir, Mordor is an evil beyond anything any of us can ever imagine. I would sooner kill myself than willingly lead you to such open risk."
"The choice of whether I should go or not is not yours, nor mine!" Armir protested, her voice beginning to tremble as it rose. "Do you not understand?! Completing this journey is my destiny, just as it is yours and everyone else's!"
"Armir, please." Legolas begged. "I only want what is best for you. . ."
"How can that be the best if you would be leaving me?!" Armir cried desperately. She was starting to tremble now, overwhelmed by fear at the idea of Legolas departing Lorien without her.
He was going to abandon her. He was going to go off to Mordor and forget about her, and she would never see him again. Tears of despair stung the maiden's eyes. How would she ever be able to survive if that happened?
"Armir. . ."
The sound of this voice, so tender and caring, fueled her pain on the thought of losing him. She then began to weep, pitifully and irrepressibly.
Before she could even make a motion to step away, Legolas had her in his embrace. Not knowing how else to react or what to do, she melted into his arms, clutching onto his tunic feebly.
"Legolas, please. . ." she sobbed weakly. "Do not do this."
She felt him retract from her pathetic grasp and hold her firmly at arm's length. Fearing what this gesture most likely meant, weakness overpowered her, and she stumbled as all strength left her body. Legolas immediately caught her waist and supported her before she could collapse.
"Melamin (my love), why would you even think that I could desert you?" he murmured, stroking her cheek softly. "I adore you more than anything in this world and outside it. How can you ever expect me to live my life without you?"
He gently tilted her chin up, allowing him a direct view of her tearful, but nonetheless stunning, blue gaze.
"Leaving you behind is something that would hurt me greatly. But please understand that I am willing to do anything within my power to ensure your safety, even if it means suffering through days without your presence." he said, tracing the side of her face with his thumb. "I will never be able to bear it if anything should befall you."
"Neither will I." Armir wept, staring straight into his eyes, desperate to make him understand. "I cannot let you go, Legolas. I shall be too afraid of what may happen to you while you are away. What if you never return to me?"
Legolas placed his fingers on her lips. "I will not let that happen." he assured her. "When this quest is all over, I will come back for you, and I will take you away with me. . . because I love you, Armir. I need you, and I . . .I . . ."
He paused and took a deep breath. "I want to spend the rest of my life with you."
Armir's heart came to a complete stop as all breath was stolen from her lungs.
"Will you marry me?"
He reached for her hand and slipped something onto her open palm. She stared down at the exquisite piece of jewelry that lay upon her shaking fingers. It was a delicate silver pendant studded with tiny white diamonds and brilliant gemstones as blue as her eyes. It was shaped in a queer symbol of some sort, one she could not quite identify.
"It belonged to my mother." Legolas said softly, cutting into her astonished thoughts. "She gave it to me sometime before she passed away. . ."
He gazed hopefully at Armir as she lifted her stunned face back up to meet his.
". . . as a gift to my bride."
He took her hand and traced the shape of the pendant on her palm.
"This is a runic symbol." he explained, never taking his eyes away from Armir. "Meaning forever."
"Forever." Armir echoed faintly, the word escaping her mouth unconsciously. She clutched the necklace in her hand and held it to her chest, feeling the pounding of her heart quicken.
She felt Legolas' hands grasp hers tightly but, as always, gently and lovingly.
"Be my wife Armir, and I promise to love and care for you even beyond forever." he whispered, eyes burning with earnestness. "I will serve you and protect you, and make sure that your heart will never desire anything more."
He brought her hands to his lips and kissed them reverently. "It is you or no one, for I know with all my soul, that I will never find anyone whom I can love as much as I love you."
Armir stared back at him, frozen with disbelief at what she was hearing and seeing. A thousand questions spun in her head, robbing her of her ability to speak and filling her with confusion and unease. But as she looked into Legolas' eyes, full of so much hope and longing, she understood clearly that this moment was exactly what she had been waiting for her whole life. A sudden wave of overwhelming joy washed away her apprehensions and threatened to split her heart open.
Throwing her arms impulsively around his neck, she burst into tears of ecstasy. "Amin mela lle, Legolas!" she cried. "Of course I will marry you!"
She began to giggle as Legolas swept her into her arms, lifting her off her feet and spinning her around, mixing her delighted laughter with his own.
When they had calmed down from their initial elation, Legolas took the necklace from Armir's hand and stood behind her to fasten it around her slim neck.
"This belongs to you now, my Princess." he murmured, as she pulled back her hair and he secured the clasp of the dainty mithril chain. "As a symbol of my undying devotion."
Armir felt a shiver run through her as he trailed his mouth down the side of her neck, planting butterfly kisses on her silky skin before moving away.
She gazed down at the jeweled pendant that lay just above her breast and felt a rush of giddiness spin her head.
"Is this real?" she sniffed, shaking her head as glad tears glistened in her eyes once more. "How can it be that all my wishes have come true in this one moment? Is this not just some magnificent dream?"
Legolas smiled and cradled her face between her hands, brushing his nose affectionately against hers. "If it is so, then I do not wish to ever wake." he whispered, before closing in upon her lips.
It was a long time before the newly betrothed lovers parted from their sweet, amorous kiss, but as they drew away and beheld the radiant happiness on each other's faces, they knew that this was indeed very real, the start of what would certainly be the most wonderful part of their lives.
* * *
Laicristiel fastened the last slim braid above Armir's ear and gently combed her fingers through the hair that remained free-flowing down her back.
"There." she said with a satisfied smile. "You are all ready."
Armir smiled and rose from the chair, brushing down the light skirt of her gown. "Thank you, Laicristiel."
The elf-princess stepped in front of the mirror to glance at her reflection briefly, and blushed slightly at how particularly attractive she looked. She had wanted to look extra special for Legolas that night, but the dress Laicristiel had insisted she wear was the most daring she had ever donned in her life- her grandfather would have been furious to see her in it. It accentuated every alluring curve in her body, and the neckline dropped low enough to reveal ample parts of her bosom.
"I look awful." Armir mumbled, reddening in chaste apprehension.
"Nonsense! You look absolutely perfect." Laicristiel told her firmly. "Mark my words, your future husband will never be able to tear his eyes from you tonight."
She smiled mischievously. "Which is exactly what you wanted, was it not?"
The red on Armir's cheeks deepened in color. "I only wanted to him to enjoy our last evening together before he leaves Lorien tomorrow."
"And I guarantee he shall." Laicristiel assured her. "He will never know what came over him!"
The handmaiden then sighed and stepped back, gazing fondly at the princess standing before her. "I still cannot believe how romantic this all is." she said delightedly, clasping her hands together. "You and Prince Legolas! There cannot be a match more fitting."
Armir nodded, and could not help but sigh as well. "I am the luckiest elf in the world." she murmured happily.
"And so is he!" Laicristiel chided. "To win the hand of a beautiful young maiden such as yourself is no meager feat! And in such a short time, no less!"
At this last comment, Armir turned to her friend with sudden insecurity. "Do you think it is much too soon?" she asked, her fair brow creasing slightly. "Is our relationship going too fast?"
Laicristiel shook her head vigorously. "Only the two of you can be the judge of that." she answered firmly. "Time is of no consequence if you truly care for each other and believe with all your hearts that you were meant to do so for the rest of your lives."
Armir smiled and fingered with Legolas' pendant fondly. "Well, I do." she whispered softly, once again feeling that thrill rush through her at the mere thought of marrying the handsome Elven prince. "I cannot even begin to describe my feelings for him, Laicristiel. I love him so much."
Laicristiel giggled. "What is there not to love?" she teased. "He is certainly not a hard one to look at."
Armir laughed with her, but shook her head. "Though I will admit that his fine looks are unrivaled, it is his soul that has genuinely captured my heart." she sighed dreamily. "He is so sweet and affectionate. Every moment I am with him, he makes me feel so treasured, so blissful and safe. . . unlike the way anyone has ever affected me before."
"And it is quite obvious that he feels the same way about you." Laicristiel said, nodding with an approving smile. "It is true love all right."
"Yes." Armir agreed happily. "I believe it is."
"Well, you had best get going then." Laicristiel said after a moment of thoughtful silence, suddenly realizing how late it was getting. She moved close to give Armir an affectionate kiss on the forehead, then winked impishly .
"Enjoy your evening, Princess."
* * *
A cheek-splitting smile grew on Legolas' face as he caught sight of Armir making her way across the glade towards him. Overcoming the initial weakness and loss of breath at the sight of her, he immediately rose from where he sat waiting and came forward to meet her.
"I have missed you." he whispered in her ear, as he wrapped his arms around her once she was within his reach. Pulling her delicate body tightly against his, he placed his cheek against the silkiness of her hair and drank in the pleasantly fragrant scent he relished most. His spirits seemed to rise instantly because of her aura, and the feeling of her so close, her heart beating gently against his. Legolas sighed contentedly in her embrace. This was his heaven.
"I can tell." Armir replied, giggling slightly as Legolas' warm breath caressed her neck. "But, Melamin (my love), we have been apart for only a few hours."
"Every moment would naturally seem like an eternity to one who adores you so much." Legolas said sincerely, drawing away to plant a soft kiss on her mouth.
Armir shook her head reprovingly. "Then how will you ever be able to bear our separation when you leave Lorien tomorrow?" she asked, stroking his long blond tresses lovingly.
"If it means keeping you safe, I shall learn to tolerate it." Legolas responded determinedly. "I care not if it hurts me, as long as I am assured of your wellbeing."
Armir looked up at him with imploring eyes. "It does not have to be that way, Legolas." she pleaded. "I can be strong like you, and can be taught to take care of myself."
"I will not take that chance." Legolas told her firmly. "We have been through this, Armir. It would be best for you to stay here in Lorien."
"All right." Armir sighed. "I see there is no changing your mind. . ."
"Armir. . ." Legolas said gently, tilting her chin up upon seeing the growing sadness on her face. "I love you. Please understand that is the only reason why I am insisting on this."
He pressed his lips on her forehead. "Trust that I WILL return for you soon. I will take you back home with me and I shall make you my wife, and never allow myself to be separated from you again."
"But how am I to know that you will not forget me once you have left Lorien?" Armir said with a small pout. "What if, along your journey, you fall in love with another maiden who will take my place in your heart?"
Legolas couldn't help but grin. She was trying to look serious, but from the sparkle in her eyes he knew she was just teasing him. Tempting him. He stared into her eyes and ran his gentle fingers through her hair.
"Are you questioning my faithfulness to you, Tarien (princess)?" he asked in a husky tone that made her knees weaken instantly. "I cannot allow such doubts to corrupt your mind."
Armir swallowed hard but managed to retain her calm in spite of the suggestive fire in his eyes. She moved her hands playfully up his lean chest and around his neck, throwing him a coy look.
"You must reassure me, then." she whispered, as Legolas moved his face towards hers and claimed the sweetness of her mouth.
"Satisfied?" the elf-prince asked mischievously minutes later, upon ending the longest, most passionate kiss he had ever given her.
Armir stared back breathlessly at him with such a dazed look in her sapphire eyes that Legolas had to laugh.
"I will never look at another maiden again, Armir." he vowed, winding his arms around her tiny waist. "Why would I, when I already have the fairest of them all?"
Armir blushed modestly. "I am not. . ." she began, but was cut off when Legolas placed a hand on her lips.
"No more words." he said softly, tracing the delicate curves of her mouth with a gentle finger. "If this will be our last night together for a while, I want to spend it committing every part of you to memory."
But before he could lean in to kiss her again, the sound of light footsteps approaching caught their attention. Armir wriggled slightly out of Legolas' fervent embrace just as a Galadrim sentry appeared from behind the trees.
The solider bowed low to the two of them before speaking.
"Many apologies for interrupting, your Highnesses." he said sincerely, looking somewhat embarrassed. "But Lady Galadriel is calling for the Princess."
"The Lady wishes to see me?" Armir asked, turning to him in surprise. "Whatever for?"
The sentry shook his head. "I do not know, Milady, but she had requested that I escort you to her talan without delay." He threw Legolas an apologetic look. "Alone."
Armir nodded. "I see." she said softly. "Very well then. . . "
She then turned to her lover, who at that moment looked far from thrilled.
"I must go." she whispered to him, squeezing his hand regretfully. "It must be important, otherwise she would not call on me so unexpectedly."
Legolas frowned. "I suppose . . ." he muttered, suddenly looking extremely irritated.
She smiled and stroked his creasing brow. "It should not take long." she promised. "Wait for me here, and I shall try to be as back as soon as I can."
At that, she planted one last kiss on his mouth before allowing herself to be let away by the sentry.
* * *
"Well, well. . . the wandering Warden has returned home at last."
Haldir smiled and stopped in his tracks, recognizing the voice even without having to turn around to face the source.
"It is good to see you too, Laicristiel." he responded, before facing the elf maiden approaching him.
Laicristiel returned his rare smile as she embraced him. "It is still beyond me how you could have endured a month-long lookout shift at the borders." she admonished gently when they parted. "Really, Haldir. You overwork yourself too much, and it is not doing you any good."
Haldir raised his fair eyebrows at her. "You do realize that, as usual, your petty lectures are not going to change me any. . . " he told her drolly.
Laicristiel laughed and linked her arm through his as they continued their walk down the path further into the heart of the city. "Yes, I know. But it is so much fun to try at least."
It had been almost four weeks since Haldir last returned to Caras Galadon. Right after the dueling episode against Legolas, the March Warden had gone right back to sentry duty at the Lorien borders, unwilling to face Armir after seeing how hurt she had been by what he had done. Neither did he wish to witness any more of her romantic affairs with the Mirkwood prince, whom he now considered to be the greatest rival he ever had.
All Haldir wanted to do now was to just forget about his former lover, and move on with his life as though they had never even met. It had grown quite obvious that she would never love him the same way she loved Legolas, and no matter how hard he tried to win her back there simply was no changing that.
"So tell me," Haldir said at last, breaking the relaxed silence between him and his sister-in-law. "What has been going on around here while I was away? I trust that you, of all people, can fill me in on the details of the very latest hearsays?"
Laicristiel's eyes lit up instantly upon hearing this. "I was wondering when you were going to ask me that." she said eagerly. "Because, as a matter of fact, I do have tremendous news that I am positive you will be very pleased with."
Haldir gazed at her, his attention immediately caught by her excitement "What is it?"
The elf maiden grinned, then took a deep breath and paused for dramatic effect. "Armir and Prince Legolas have gotten engaged!"
Haldir froze in his tracks suddenly. A deep pain struck him harshly in the chest, feeling as though an icy arrow had shot clear through his heart.
"What!?" he managed to choke out.
Laicristiel nodded enthusiastically, unaware of the increasing agony on the March Warden's face. "Yes. Isn't it marvelous?" she said joyfully. "I knew from the first day that those two were a fine match, destined to be together eternally. I am just so glad for Armir. She has never been happier."
Somehow Haldir was able to find in himself the ability to speak further. "When. . . when have they decided to get married?" he stammered weakly, every fiber of his being dreading the answer.
"Not for a while." Laicristiel said ruefully. "It has been decided that Armir will remain here in Lorien while the rest of the Fellowship continue with the quest. Legolas wishes to keep her safe until he is eventually able to return for her and take her back to Mirkwood with him."
Upon hearing this Haldir was filled with such relief he almost burst out laughing. Armir was staying behind in Lorien and Legolas was leaving her? It sounded almost too good and absurd to be true.
A thousand random thoughts rushed through the elf's mind all in one moment. Perhaps it was not too late. A lot could happen within a few months, and who even knew how long it would take Legolas to come back to Lorien from the quest? There was still time . . . time to win Armir back. Time to take her away from Legolas before she made the biggest mistake of her life.
But then, amidst these tempting schemes, Laicristiel's earlier words echoed back to him.
"She has never been happier. . ."
Haldir frowned, struck with sudden shame at himself. What was he thinking?! How could he be so selfish, always considering only what he felt and wanted? There he was, automatically plotting ways in which to steal Armir away from the elf she loved, without any regard for what made HER happy. That could not be righteous love. It was not what she deserved.
"Haldir? Are you all right?"
Laicristiel must have noticed the guilt clouding his face, for she was now staring up at him with concern in her eyes and a gentle hand upon his stiffened arm. The March Warden quickly feigned a reassuring smile.
"Of course." he said softly, avoiding her gaze as so not to give himself away. "You are right, Laicristiel. This is great news indeed." He paused and took a deep breath. "I too am very happy for Armir. For both of them."
Laicristiel beamed at him, her bright eyes dancing. "Wonderful!" she said cheerfully, clasping her hands together. "You must help me then in entertaining her while Legolas is away. Poor thing. I am certain she will start missing the Prince very much once he leaves tomorrow. It is up to us to prevent her from being too bored or downhearted in the meantime."
Haldir gave no response. He wasn't sure that helping Armir forget her fiancé's absence was a very wise thing for him to do. He feared that he may end up doing too effective a job, and destroy what could be the princess' real chance at eternal bliss.
And, no matter how much he detested Legolas, that was something Haldir never wanted to happen.
* * *
"I do not quite understand, my Lady." Armir said softly, gazing back at the caring, though solemn, face before her. "When we informed you of our decision this morning you told us it was an acceptable plan."
Galadriel sighed and shook her head regretfully. "I know, my darling. I know. . ." she murmured. "And I am sorry it is only now that I am able to inform you of this change. However, you must understand that foretastes cannot be summoned at whim. They come at even unexpected moments."
The Lady touched her great-granddaughter's arm gently. "But this is for certain now, Armir." she told her firmly. "You cannot allow the Fellowship to depart without you. You must go with them, for your task is not over." She paused, and looked into the young elf's eyes. "They will fail without you.."
Armir observed the fixed seriousness on Galadriel's face and immediately felt dread wash through her. It was clear from her expression and tone of voice that this matter in discussion was indeed a grave one, and cannot be contested.
Still confused by this sudden resolution, Armir frowned. "How can that be?" she said anxiously. "How can I be so important as to actually be necessary? All throughout our journey I have never felt as though I was really able to contribute anything. As a matter of fact, I have been barely more than a burden, and an extra responsibility to both Aragorn and Legolas."
At this, Galadriel smiled at her kindly. "That is where you are clearly mistaken, child." she told the puzzled elf. "After all this time, you have still not understood yourself, or the inborn power you possess within you."
"Power?" Armir repeated incredulously, her innocent eyes widening. "But I have no powers!" she exclaimed, shaking her head vigorously. "I cannot even manage to defend myself in battle! I am but weak and helpless."
Galadriel laughed softly at her panicked negation. "Then perhaps you should alter your concept of what power is." she chided. "Have you not noticed all the good you have done, Armir? All the pain you have gone through, and all you have borne to help your companions get this far?"
"I do not know what it is that you speak of. . ." Armir whispered, now truly perplexed by her great-grandmother's words.
Galadriel smiled at her and reached out with a graceful hand. She lightly touched the young maiden's chest, just above her heart.
"You strength lies here." she told her quietly. "In the goodness of your heart, and in the kindness of your soul. Never underestimate the influence of a soul that is immaculately pure, for it is indeed the greatest power of all."
"I . . . I do not think I understand what you mean." Armir stammered.
"In whom did Frodo find comfort when times were hard?" Galadriel asked in place of an answer. "To whom did the hobbits turn for cheer when they were downcast or afraid? Who kept everyone's spirits alive during the weariest moments of the journey?"
The Lady paused and shook her head. "It was none other than you, my dear, though you may not have been conscious about it. I can assure you-- the courage and strength of your comrades would have crumbled easily had it not been for your compassionate presence amongst them."
"But . . . how?"
"Your beauty and radiance go far deeper than your skin." Galadriel said kindly. "Even more so than any normal elf. There is encouragement in your smile, warmth in your arms, and wisdom in your words. The mere sight of you is enough to give others around you consolation. Sharing pain, relieving sadness and worries, shining light against evil-- those are your gifts."
As Armir listened carefully to these explanations, her mind flashed back to events that have taken prior to their arrival in Lorien.
She remembered her conversations with Frodo.
"There is something about that makes you different from the others I have met before. Something magical."
Was that not what he had said once?
Then she recalled all her fun experiences with the other hobbits, and how they were always so eager for her company, jumping at every slight opportunity to spend some time with her.
Then came back the memory of their trip through Moria. She remembered all the strange emotions and weakness she had sensed while they were running from the orcs and during the appearance of the Balrog. How she had felt so much pain and suffering right before she blacked out due to the torture of it all.
Did this have any connection to her so-called powers?
"Indeed it does."
Armir gasped, slightly startled by the sudden interruption of Galadriel's voice into her deep thoughts. The Lady smiled apologetically, as though saying sorry for having read into her mind, before going on.
"You see, Armir, you are an elf born with an extraordinarily virtuous, sensitive soul. As such, you have the ability to not only sense the feelings of others around you, but to affect them as well."
"A-affect them?" Armir repeated faintly, feeling her whole body weaken suddenly at the implication of these words.
"Yes, either by easing them or by making them stronger." Galadriel responded. "For instance, through your mere presence you were able to strengthen Frodo's resistance to the Ring. In Khazad-dum, you managed to calm the fears of your friends as well as prevent their grief from overcoming them."
"Was that the reason I fell unconscious then?"
Galadriel nodded. "Your own pain, plus the burden of sharing those of the others, combined with the evil but nonetheless powerful influence of the Shadow, proved to be too much for you to handle." she explained somberly. "But do not think of it as weakness. You were wounded, and that was a very sinister hour. The experience took a severe toll upon you."
Armir fell silent, her mind now heavy with all this sudden onslaught of new knowledge. She had longed for answers from the first moment her grandfather spoke to her of joining the Fellowship. But now that she had them, she was no longer sure if they were going to be easy to accept.
Never in her life did she see herself as anything special. She always considered herself as plain and boring as an elf could get, and never even dreamed that one day she would be able to take part in any fantastic adventures or endeavors. When she had set out with the others on the quest, that was the only time she felt the slightest twinge of hope that she would be able to do something great with her life.
But never did she expect anything like this. She, an indispensable member of their group? An elven lady with power over emotions? How was that possible? If ever she did possess such special abilities, she knew she had absolutely no control over them whatsoever.
Did that truly make her an asset?
"Armir?"
Caught up in her own thoughts, the young maiden did not realize that her great-grandmother had now sat down beside her, and was patting her arm to gain back her attention.
"Are you all right?" the Lady inquired, her stunning blue eyes clouding over with concern at the youngling's distressed face.
Armir bit her lip and nodded. "Yes." she sighed. "I am sorry. It is just that this is all a little too much to sort out all at once. I never imagined . . ."
Her soft voice trailed off as she realized something. "Minyaatar. . ." she murmured. "Was he aware of any of these things about me?"
Galadriel smiled and shook her head. "Certainly not. He would have told you if he did. You know that."
"He told me that there was a task along this quest that only I would be able to fulfill. . ." Armir said slowly and hesitantly. "What was it exactly that he knew then?"
"Elrond has the gift of foresight, like I do." Galadriel replied gravely. "He may have witnessed the same things I have, which is a very indistinct vision of what would come to pass had you not gone on this quest. It is vague, but understandable nonetheless." She paused and looked at Armir significantly.
"Failure. . . and all the horrors that will result from it."
Armir felt a shiver run through her at the sound of the Lady's ominous tone and expression. Upon noticing the frightened look on the princess' face, Galadriel immediately softened.
"That is why I speak of this now, my child." she said calmly and soothingly. "I know that Legolas wishes to keep you, his future wife, safe by having you remain here in Lorien, but it simply cannot allowed. I speak for the sake of all on Middle Earth when I say that you must go on. You must continue, and face whatever crucial things lie ahead on your path. There is still a destiny out there, waiting to be fulfilled by none other than you."
Armir took a deep breath and finally nodded. "Yes." she spoke softly but resolutely. "I understand, and Legolas will too. I will go."
The smile that appeared on Galadriel's face reminded Armir of how her grandfather looked when they had exchanged farewells at the Fellowship's departure of Rivendell. Sad, but tremendously proud.
"I see your father's valor in you, little one." she murmured, touching Armir's cheek lovingly. "He would have been very pleased to see you now."
"Thank you." Armir whispered, as she was taken into the Lady's caring embrace.
"I only wish I could give you more warnings or insights of what to expect ahead of you." Galadriel said ruefully when the parted. "But I am both sorry and anxious to say that the future has never more uncertain."
She squeezed Armir's hands tightly. "These are very dark times, little one. It is difficult to distinguish the paths that should be taken from the contrary. You must be very careful."
Armir gave her a reassuring smile. "There is no real need to worry about me." she said confidently. "I have Legolas for protection, and I have strong faith that for as long as he is there, no harm will come upon me."
The greatly troubled expression that filled Galadriel's eyes upon hearing these words struck Armir with immediate uneasiness and growing dread.
"Is there something wrong?" she asked nervously. "My Lady?"
"I so wished that I did not have to tell you this." Galadriel sighed, speaking as though merely thinking out loud. "But it seems that it must be done."
"Tell me what?" The anxiety in Armir's chest was now swelling into full- blown fear.
"Perhaps it would be best for you to see this, and not just hear it through words." Galadriel said.
She took the trembling elf's hand and began to direct her out of the Great Hall.
Both remained silent as they walked through the wood paths into the more remote parts of Caras Galadon. Armir, though puzzled by where her great- grandmother could possibly be leading her, was too nervous to say a word.
At last, they reached an isolated garden enclosed by high hedges. Galadriel led Armir down a long flight of stone steps into a deep hollow. The princess then spotted at the center of the dell a large silver basin resting upon an intricately carved pedestal.
"This is called the Mirror of Galadriel." the Lady told her, her calm voice no more than a hushed whisper. "It is what allows me to witness events that lie in the past, present, and future. It is how I was able to perceive all that I had just spoken to you about."
"Now, it is time for you to have glimpse of your own."
Galadriel gestured encouragingly to Armir, who was standing a timid distance away, urging her to come closer to the Mirror. When she did, the older elf grasped her hands firmly, looking into her anxious blue eyes sympathetically.
"Armir. . ." the great Elven lady began, suddenly appearing slightly hesitant. "I wish nothing more than for you to be happy and have the life you have always dreamed of with an elf you love very much. I know you have found this in Legolas Thranduillion, but. . ."
She paused and took a breath as though the succeeding words were difficult to let out of her mouth.
"I must ask you to reconsider marrying him. . . or even loving him at all."
Her statement, said slowly and clearly, hit Armir like a dagger to the heart as soon as it reached her ears. She was so shocked by it that for a long while she could barely speak, much less breathe freely. Tears began to fill her eyes as the words sank deeper and deeper like a hot blade through butter.
"Why . . . why are you saying this?" she finally managed to choke out, the disbelief and resentfulness unmasked in her voice. She pulled her hands from Galadriel's and backed away.
Galadriel shook her head, the regret upon her fair face as evident as the pain on Armir's. "Armir, please try to understand. It does not delight me to tell you this, but I must." she said sternly. "You cannot allow your romance with Legolas to continue, for it is an ill-fated love. It for both your sakes that I give you this warning. If you do not end this now, great misfortune will result."
"Misfortune!" Armir sobbed. "What more cruel misfortune could there be than not being with Legolas? I love him more than life itself, my Lady. I would sooner die than leave or deny him."
"Then you must see with your own eyes what will happen should you insist on that."
At that moment, for some mysterious reason, Armir was compelled to lift her distraught gaze up and look towards the basin. As soon as her eyes locked on to the dark, placid water that filled it, she soon found that she could no longer move her attention away.
For a while, it appeared as though all there was to see in the Mirror was the reflection of the stars in the night sky above them. However, seconds later, ripples shifted the liquid, and an image slowly materialized before Armir's entranced stare. A horrified gasp escaped her lips as the picture came into clear view. . .
Legolas staggered backwards, hand clutching the shaft of a thick arrow that was embedded into his chest. He lifted his gaze up. His clear blue eyes were dewy with grief and fear, and were starting to cloud over as haziness began to fill his anguished face.
"Armir. . ." he whispered, his voice raspy and extremely weak with pain.
Any further words were cut off by another arrow that came flying to thrust itself into the elf's already injured body. Dropping the bow in his hand, Legolas fell to his knees, a small amount of blood trickling out from the corner of his mouth as he groaned. As the helpless prince collapsed to the ground, a swarm of dark figures piled around him. Orc battle cries filled the air as these fiends began to beat the fallen elf over and over . . .
"NO!!!" Armir screamed. "Legolas!!!"
Only when the terrible vision vanished from the Mirror did Armir recover the ability to turn her face away. Immediately she covered her eyes with her hands, but could not shield herself from the horrible memory of what she had seen. Amidst her hysterical sobs, she felt a comforting hand upon her shoulder and a soft voice speak from behind her.
"I wish I could have told you sooner, before your love for him deepened to the extent it is in now." Galadriel murmured sorrowfully. "But as I had said, the future does not always present itself in the most opportune of times."
Armir wept uncontrollably against her great-grandmother's shoulder as she allowed herself to be taken into her comforting embrace.
"My darling, I am so sorry you had to see that." Galadriel whispered, stroking her hair gently in a futile attempt to ease her ache. "It was the only way I could have convinced you of how serious this is."
"I do not understand how such a thing could happen." Armir whimpered in between ragged sobs. "I would never . ."
"Allow it?" Galadriel finished her sentence. She then sighed. "Yes, you see, that is precisely how Legolas feels about you as well. He cares for you so much he forgets to care for himself."
Armir stared up at her through her tears. "You mean . . . ?"
"He is determined to keep you safe no matter what, Armir." Galadriel told her gravely. "Even at the cost of his own life."
"I will never let him do such a thing!" Armir gasped, resolve suddenly hardening her face and voice.
"Do you really think you will be able to stop him?" Galadriel challenged. "He will never cease risking his life for yours. At least, not as long as he knows he holds your heart. As your lover he knows your security is a serious responsibility he must carry."
"He will die protecting you, Armir." the Lady said, her grim tone making it clear that her words were not to be opposed. "Whether it is in the near or distant future, it is uncertain, but you know in your heart as well I that it is not impossible. There maybe, however, one way to keep this fatality from taking place. . . if you are strong enough to take it."
There was a long pause before Armir found the courage to speak again. Her voice shook as did the rest of her slim body, but she managed to utter the question she dreaded most.
"How? How can I prevent it?" she whispered, sounding defeated but determined.
Galadriel looked her straight in the eye, all tenderness vanishing to make way for harsh firmness.
"You must end Legolas' love for you, and likewise end your love for him."
* * *
COMING UP . . . Chapter 10 - Denial
Oh cruel world! What will happen to them now?! You'll have to wait for the next update to see!
Look on the bright side. . . you can help me make it faster by R-E-V-I-E-W- I-N-G! ;p
Thanks for coming guys! See you soon! (I hope!)
I know, I know! This is WAYYY past its promised deadline! A thousand apologies to those who have been patiently waiting. I promise to do better next time! I can't really be blamed, though. This chapter was a toughie! You'll see what I mean when you read it yourself. All the drama . . . all the intrigue . . . all the gut-wrenching sweetness . . . All worth it! Hehehe. . .
I can't miss out on the personal greetings (even if my arm already feels like it's about to fall off), 'cause all my reviewers have been so wonderful and supportive even if I have been so delinquent. So here goes. . .
DAGGER - Hey there! I am so glad you've come back! I am very glad you like it so far. I hope I'll continue to catch your attention so you won't wander off again!
ALYDE11 - Thank you very much! I am very flattered, but yes, good English is quite common for us Filipinos. ;p
KITTY - Always glad to have new reviewers on board! Hope you'll come again!
KIKA - Thank you so much! I certainly will do my best to be as good as you say I am! ;p At least one "brutal critic" likes my story. Many others have practically spit on it already!
AUSTRO GREENLEAF - Yeah, school does get in the way of more important things like fic writing! I am happy you like this! I'm way too shy for publication though. . . hehehe.
NOVVILYAIEL - Sorry to have kept you waiting for so long. I tried my best, really I did! Hope this makes up for your waiting!
PSYCHONUT - Of course! Legolas and Haldir forever! ;p
GLORYALCARINQUE - Wow! I didn't think those last two lines would be a hit with anybody! But thanks a mil for that! ;p
ARWENUNDOMIEL - No need to be envious. . . you're a great writer yourself! update your story soon pls!
CRYSTAL FIRE - Hehe. . . Orophin the tattletale! Glad you like the flower . . . it'll be pretty significant to the story later on. Yeah, if only I didn't love Haldir so much Legolas would have made him orc meat by now. Hehehe. . .
ILUVENIS - It's always a pleasure to hear from you. ;p thanks!
INSANE ORLI - Well, you think exactly like Armir does. How CAN Haldir compare to what Legolas gives her? Hmm. . . we shall see! ;p
ICY878 - I am so happy to hear you enjoyed the mush. Glad not everyone gets turned off by sweetness. . . hehehe. . . oh yeah, go Legolas of course!
LILENA - Haldir is not quite so "poor" yet. . . ;p wait and see . . . he's not quite out of the running just yet.
EARWEN of AL. - You will find all the answers you want here! ;p It's so good to hear someone finally appreciates the "royal jewel" name. Thanks!
SNOWMANE - Aw, shux. . . I'm really not all that. . But thanks for the booster anyways! Hope you'll like this one! ;p
MERENWEN - You go, Armir lover! ;p Hehehe. . . I'll always remember you for that!
ARAFANGWEN - Thank you so much for the compliments! I was afraid I would be no good at writing action scenes, but thanks to you I guess I'm not that bad after all! ;p This story will go on for six (6) more chapters. . still rather long. Reviews are always encouraging; that's all there is to it. It helps me know people are reading my work and enjoying it, so the hours of racking my brains and typing don't go to waste! If you're curious about what Armir's fate will be . . .you'll just have to keep reading coz I'm not gonna give anything away!
Whew! That's done! And now. . . on with the chapter I've worked so damn hard to finish!
HAPPY READING!
* * *
THE SACRIFICE
Chapter Nine - Counsel
Blue eyes sparkling blissfully, Armir gazed out at the gleaming waters of the Silverlode from where she and Legolas sat at its bank. It was yet another fair evening in the Lothlorien, but something about this certain night made the whole wood seem even more enchanting and serene to the maiden's eyes. Perhaps it was the way the soft moonlight glinted upon the gently rushing river, making it seem like a stream of silver silk. Maybe it was the feeling of the sweet, forest-scented breeze that swept their surroundings, or the sight of thousands of stars shining down upon them from the ebon sky above.
"Have you ever seen anything more beautiful in your life?" she asked Legolas happily.
She turned her head slightly in his direction, waiting for a comment or answer to her inquiry. She then realized that he had been staring at her longingly this whole time, his usually keen eyes dazed and entranced as they studied her face.
"Never." he finally whispered, reaching up to sweep away the hair strands whipping about her face. "Nothing can be more beautiful."
Armir laughed and poked him playfully on the arm. "I get the feeling we are not speaking of the same things here." she admonished him.
Legolas grinned back. "Maybe so, but I am quite certain my thoughts are more accurate than yours." he teased, nipping her earlobe affectionately.
Armir smiled and kissed his jawline, then snuggled back against him where she sat on his lap. She closed her eyes contentedly and rested her head on his chest, sensing immediate comfort in the warmth of his presence and the familiar woodsy-scent of his clothes. She felt a surge of lightheadedness wash over her brought about by the feeling of him so near. It was then that she understood exactly what made this night seem so wonderful.
Over the past month in Lorien, the two of them had been practically inseparable. They had spent most of the days enjoying each other's company, finding themselves growing deeper and deeper in love with each moment. Armir honestly felt that Legolas cherished her and made her happier than any other being on Middle Earth ever could. She in turn cared for him with all her heart and soul, more profoundly than she ever thought possible. For the first time in her life, she had found someone who was able to make her truly happy even away from her home and loved ones. She learned to no longer worry about where she was or what went on in the frenzied world around her- he was all she needed to feel completely safe.
Armir took the large, gentle hand that was caressing her hair and kissed it tenderly, then held it to her cheek with an inaudible sigh, wondering with a throbbing heart if he had any idea of just how much he meant to her.
"I wish we could stay this way forever." she murmured wistfully.
"I do too." Legolas agreed, wrapping both arms around her waist and pulling her closer to him. "If only we did not have to leave Lorien at all. . ."
His voice trailed off, and for a brief moment there was a melancholy silence between them. Aragorn had told them that morning they would most likely be leaving the Golden Wood in a few days, off to continue with their quest as planned. Already Armir could feel an ache in her heart at the mere thought of leaving this wonderful realm behind. Just when she was growing used to peace and freedom from troubles, duty was calling them to return to their dangerous mission.
Just then, she felt Legolas bury his face into the softness of her hair, his hold around her tightening protectively.
"I do not want you to face the hardships of this journey all over again." he muttered somberly. "You do not deserve to undergo any more pain or difficulties."
"None of us do." Armir said, stroking his arm caringly. "But we have no choice. We are bound to the Fellowship and to this quest. For the good of all, we will do what we must, even if it goes against our own desires."
There was another pause before Legolas spoke again, this time with iron resolution.
"Armir. . . I want you to stay."
"What?" Armir gasped, reacting instantly to his words. She turned to stare at the determined expression on his face.
"I have decided not to let you travel with us to Mordor any longer." Legolas told her firmly. "You should stay here in Lorien, where you will be safe."
Armir gaped at him. "Legolas, I cannot do that!" she exclaimed. "You know I must go with you! I. . . I am meant to remain with the Fellowship all the way."
Legolas shook his head. "We do not know that." he pointed out. "For all we know your task was merely to help Frodo get the ring this far, thus it is finished. There may be no need for you to go any further. Perhaps this is where the journey ends for you. It would probably be for the best."
Filled with sudden offense and denial, Armir pulled away from him and got to her feet. "Why are you telling me this?" she cried. "Why do you suddenly wish to leave me behind?"
"Because I want to spare you from any further grief." Legolas said gravely, standing up to face her. "Armir, Mordor is an evil beyond anything any of us can ever imagine. I would sooner kill myself than willingly lead you to such open risk."
"The choice of whether I should go or not is not yours, nor mine!" Armir protested, her voice beginning to tremble as it rose. "Do you not understand?! Completing this journey is my destiny, just as it is yours and everyone else's!"
"Armir, please." Legolas begged. "I only want what is best for you. . ."
"How can that be the best if you would be leaving me?!" Armir cried desperately. She was starting to tremble now, overwhelmed by fear at the idea of Legolas departing Lorien without her.
He was going to abandon her. He was going to go off to Mordor and forget about her, and she would never see him again. Tears of despair stung the maiden's eyes. How would she ever be able to survive if that happened?
"Armir. . ."
The sound of this voice, so tender and caring, fueled her pain on the thought of losing him. She then began to weep, pitifully and irrepressibly.
Before she could even make a motion to step away, Legolas had her in his embrace. Not knowing how else to react or what to do, she melted into his arms, clutching onto his tunic feebly.
"Legolas, please. . ." she sobbed weakly. "Do not do this."
She felt him retract from her pathetic grasp and hold her firmly at arm's length. Fearing what this gesture most likely meant, weakness overpowered her, and she stumbled as all strength left her body. Legolas immediately caught her waist and supported her before she could collapse.
"Melamin (my love), why would you even think that I could desert you?" he murmured, stroking her cheek softly. "I adore you more than anything in this world and outside it. How can you ever expect me to live my life without you?"
He gently tilted her chin up, allowing him a direct view of her tearful, but nonetheless stunning, blue gaze.
"Leaving you behind is something that would hurt me greatly. But please understand that I am willing to do anything within my power to ensure your safety, even if it means suffering through days without your presence." he said, tracing the side of her face with his thumb. "I will never be able to bear it if anything should befall you."
"Neither will I." Armir wept, staring straight into his eyes, desperate to make him understand. "I cannot let you go, Legolas. I shall be too afraid of what may happen to you while you are away. What if you never return to me?"
Legolas placed his fingers on her lips. "I will not let that happen." he assured her. "When this quest is all over, I will come back for you, and I will take you away with me. . . because I love you, Armir. I need you, and I . . .I . . ."
He paused and took a deep breath. "I want to spend the rest of my life with you."
Armir's heart came to a complete stop as all breath was stolen from her lungs.
"Will you marry me?"
He reached for her hand and slipped something onto her open palm. She stared down at the exquisite piece of jewelry that lay upon her shaking fingers. It was a delicate silver pendant studded with tiny white diamonds and brilliant gemstones as blue as her eyes. It was shaped in a queer symbol of some sort, one she could not quite identify.
"It belonged to my mother." Legolas said softly, cutting into her astonished thoughts. "She gave it to me sometime before she passed away. . ."
He gazed hopefully at Armir as she lifted her stunned face back up to meet his.
". . . as a gift to my bride."
He took her hand and traced the shape of the pendant on her palm.
"This is a runic symbol." he explained, never taking his eyes away from Armir. "Meaning forever."
"Forever." Armir echoed faintly, the word escaping her mouth unconsciously. She clutched the necklace in her hand and held it to her chest, feeling the pounding of her heart quicken.
She felt Legolas' hands grasp hers tightly but, as always, gently and lovingly.
"Be my wife Armir, and I promise to love and care for you even beyond forever." he whispered, eyes burning with earnestness. "I will serve you and protect you, and make sure that your heart will never desire anything more."
He brought her hands to his lips and kissed them reverently. "It is you or no one, for I know with all my soul, that I will never find anyone whom I can love as much as I love you."
Armir stared back at him, frozen with disbelief at what she was hearing and seeing. A thousand questions spun in her head, robbing her of her ability to speak and filling her with confusion and unease. But as she looked into Legolas' eyes, full of so much hope and longing, she understood clearly that this moment was exactly what she had been waiting for her whole life. A sudden wave of overwhelming joy washed away her apprehensions and threatened to split her heart open.
Throwing her arms impulsively around his neck, she burst into tears of ecstasy. "Amin mela lle, Legolas!" she cried. "Of course I will marry you!"
She began to giggle as Legolas swept her into her arms, lifting her off her feet and spinning her around, mixing her delighted laughter with his own.
When they had calmed down from their initial elation, Legolas took the necklace from Armir's hand and stood behind her to fasten it around her slim neck.
"This belongs to you now, my Princess." he murmured, as she pulled back her hair and he secured the clasp of the dainty mithril chain. "As a symbol of my undying devotion."
Armir felt a shiver run through her as he trailed his mouth down the side of her neck, planting butterfly kisses on her silky skin before moving away.
She gazed down at the jeweled pendant that lay just above her breast and felt a rush of giddiness spin her head.
"Is this real?" she sniffed, shaking her head as glad tears glistened in her eyes once more. "How can it be that all my wishes have come true in this one moment? Is this not just some magnificent dream?"
Legolas smiled and cradled her face between her hands, brushing his nose affectionately against hers. "If it is so, then I do not wish to ever wake." he whispered, before closing in upon her lips.
It was a long time before the newly betrothed lovers parted from their sweet, amorous kiss, but as they drew away and beheld the radiant happiness on each other's faces, they knew that this was indeed very real, the start of what would certainly be the most wonderful part of their lives.
* * *
Laicristiel fastened the last slim braid above Armir's ear and gently combed her fingers through the hair that remained free-flowing down her back.
"There." she said with a satisfied smile. "You are all ready."
Armir smiled and rose from the chair, brushing down the light skirt of her gown. "Thank you, Laicristiel."
The elf-princess stepped in front of the mirror to glance at her reflection briefly, and blushed slightly at how particularly attractive she looked. She had wanted to look extra special for Legolas that night, but the dress Laicristiel had insisted she wear was the most daring she had ever donned in her life- her grandfather would have been furious to see her in it. It accentuated every alluring curve in her body, and the neckline dropped low enough to reveal ample parts of her bosom.
"I look awful." Armir mumbled, reddening in chaste apprehension.
"Nonsense! You look absolutely perfect." Laicristiel told her firmly. "Mark my words, your future husband will never be able to tear his eyes from you tonight."
She smiled mischievously. "Which is exactly what you wanted, was it not?"
The red on Armir's cheeks deepened in color. "I only wanted to him to enjoy our last evening together before he leaves Lorien tomorrow."
"And I guarantee he shall." Laicristiel assured her. "He will never know what came over him!"
The handmaiden then sighed and stepped back, gazing fondly at the princess standing before her. "I still cannot believe how romantic this all is." she said delightedly, clasping her hands together. "You and Prince Legolas! There cannot be a match more fitting."
Armir nodded, and could not help but sigh as well. "I am the luckiest elf in the world." she murmured happily.
"And so is he!" Laicristiel chided. "To win the hand of a beautiful young maiden such as yourself is no meager feat! And in such a short time, no less!"
At this last comment, Armir turned to her friend with sudden insecurity. "Do you think it is much too soon?" she asked, her fair brow creasing slightly. "Is our relationship going too fast?"
Laicristiel shook her head vigorously. "Only the two of you can be the judge of that." she answered firmly. "Time is of no consequence if you truly care for each other and believe with all your hearts that you were meant to do so for the rest of your lives."
Armir smiled and fingered with Legolas' pendant fondly. "Well, I do." she whispered softly, once again feeling that thrill rush through her at the mere thought of marrying the handsome Elven prince. "I cannot even begin to describe my feelings for him, Laicristiel. I love him so much."
Laicristiel giggled. "What is there not to love?" she teased. "He is certainly not a hard one to look at."
Armir laughed with her, but shook her head. "Though I will admit that his fine looks are unrivaled, it is his soul that has genuinely captured my heart." she sighed dreamily. "He is so sweet and affectionate. Every moment I am with him, he makes me feel so treasured, so blissful and safe. . . unlike the way anyone has ever affected me before."
"And it is quite obvious that he feels the same way about you." Laicristiel said, nodding with an approving smile. "It is true love all right."
"Yes." Armir agreed happily. "I believe it is."
"Well, you had best get going then." Laicristiel said after a moment of thoughtful silence, suddenly realizing how late it was getting. She moved close to give Armir an affectionate kiss on the forehead, then winked impishly .
"Enjoy your evening, Princess."
* * *
A cheek-splitting smile grew on Legolas' face as he caught sight of Armir making her way across the glade towards him. Overcoming the initial weakness and loss of breath at the sight of her, he immediately rose from where he sat waiting and came forward to meet her.
"I have missed you." he whispered in her ear, as he wrapped his arms around her once she was within his reach. Pulling her delicate body tightly against his, he placed his cheek against the silkiness of her hair and drank in the pleasantly fragrant scent he relished most. His spirits seemed to rise instantly because of her aura, and the feeling of her so close, her heart beating gently against his. Legolas sighed contentedly in her embrace. This was his heaven.
"I can tell." Armir replied, giggling slightly as Legolas' warm breath caressed her neck. "But, Melamin (my love), we have been apart for only a few hours."
"Every moment would naturally seem like an eternity to one who adores you so much." Legolas said sincerely, drawing away to plant a soft kiss on her mouth.
Armir shook her head reprovingly. "Then how will you ever be able to bear our separation when you leave Lorien tomorrow?" she asked, stroking his long blond tresses lovingly.
"If it means keeping you safe, I shall learn to tolerate it." Legolas responded determinedly. "I care not if it hurts me, as long as I am assured of your wellbeing."
Armir looked up at him with imploring eyes. "It does not have to be that way, Legolas." she pleaded. "I can be strong like you, and can be taught to take care of myself."
"I will not take that chance." Legolas told her firmly. "We have been through this, Armir. It would be best for you to stay here in Lorien."
"All right." Armir sighed. "I see there is no changing your mind. . ."
"Armir. . ." Legolas said gently, tilting her chin up upon seeing the growing sadness on her face. "I love you. Please understand that is the only reason why I am insisting on this."
He pressed his lips on her forehead. "Trust that I WILL return for you soon. I will take you back home with me and I shall make you my wife, and never allow myself to be separated from you again."
"But how am I to know that you will not forget me once you have left Lorien?" Armir said with a small pout. "What if, along your journey, you fall in love with another maiden who will take my place in your heart?"
Legolas couldn't help but grin. She was trying to look serious, but from the sparkle in her eyes he knew she was just teasing him. Tempting him. He stared into her eyes and ran his gentle fingers through her hair.
"Are you questioning my faithfulness to you, Tarien (princess)?" he asked in a husky tone that made her knees weaken instantly. "I cannot allow such doubts to corrupt your mind."
Armir swallowed hard but managed to retain her calm in spite of the suggestive fire in his eyes. She moved her hands playfully up his lean chest and around his neck, throwing him a coy look.
"You must reassure me, then." she whispered, as Legolas moved his face towards hers and claimed the sweetness of her mouth.
"Satisfied?" the elf-prince asked mischievously minutes later, upon ending the longest, most passionate kiss he had ever given her.
Armir stared back breathlessly at him with such a dazed look in her sapphire eyes that Legolas had to laugh.
"I will never look at another maiden again, Armir." he vowed, winding his arms around her tiny waist. "Why would I, when I already have the fairest of them all?"
Armir blushed modestly. "I am not. . ." she began, but was cut off when Legolas placed a hand on her lips.
"No more words." he said softly, tracing the delicate curves of her mouth with a gentle finger. "If this will be our last night together for a while, I want to spend it committing every part of you to memory."
But before he could lean in to kiss her again, the sound of light footsteps approaching caught their attention. Armir wriggled slightly out of Legolas' fervent embrace just as a Galadrim sentry appeared from behind the trees.
The solider bowed low to the two of them before speaking.
"Many apologies for interrupting, your Highnesses." he said sincerely, looking somewhat embarrassed. "But Lady Galadriel is calling for the Princess."
"The Lady wishes to see me?" Armir asked, turning to him in surprise. "Whatever for?"
The sentry shook his head. "I do not know, Milady, but she had requested that I escort you to her talan without delay." He threw Legolas an apologetic look. "Alone."
Armir nodded. "I see." she said softly. "Very well then. . . "
She then turned to her lover, who at that moment looked far from thrilled.
"I must go." she whispered to him, squeezing his hand regretfully. "It must be important, otherwise she would not call on me so unexpectedly."
Legolas frowned. "I suppose . . ." he muttered, suddenly looking extremely irritated.
She smiled and stroked his creasing brow. "It should not take long." she promised. "Wait for me here, and I shall try to be as back as soon as I can."
At that, she planted one last kiss on his mouth before allowing herself to be let away by the sentry.
* * *
"Well, well. . . the wandering Warden has returned home at last."
Haldir smiled and stopped in his tracks, recognizing the voice even without having to turn around to face the source.
"It is good to see you too, Laicristiel." he responded, before facing the elf maiden approaching him.
Laicristiel returned his rare smile as she embraced him. "It is still beyond me how you could have endured a month-long lookout shift at the borders." she admonished gently when they parted. "Really, Haldir. You overwork yourself too much, and it is not doing you any good."
Haldir raised his fair eyebrows at her. "You do realize that, as usual, your petty lectures are not going to change me any. . . " he told her drolly.
Laicristiel laughed and linked her arm through his as they continued their walk down the path further into the heart of the city. "Yes, I know. But it is so much fun to try at least."
It had been almost four weeks since Haldir last returned to Caras Galadon. Right after the dueling episode against Legolas, the March Warden had gone right back to sentry duty at the Lorien borders, unwilling to face Armir after seeing how hurt she had been by what he had done. Neither did he wish to witness any more of her romantic affairs with the Mirkwood prince, whom he now considered to be the greatest rival he ever had.
All Haldir wanted to do now was to just forget about his former lover, and move on with his life as though they had never even met. It had grown quite obvious that she would never love him the same way she loved Legolas, and no matter how hard he tried to win her back there simply was no changing that.
"So tell me," Haldir said at last, breaking the relaxed silence between him and his sister-in-law. "What has been going on around here while I was away? I trust that you, of all people, can fill me in on the details of the very latest hearsays?"
Laicristiel's eyes lit up instantly upon hearing this. "I was wondering when you were going to ask me that." she said eagerly. "Because, as a matter of fact, I do have tremendous news that I am positive you will be very pleased with."
Haldir gazed at her, his attention immediately caught by her excitement "What is it?"
The elf maiden grinned, then took a deep breath and paused for dramatic effect. "Armir and Prince Legolas have gotten engaged!"
Haldir froze in his tracks suddenly. A deep pain struck him harshly in the chest, feeling as though an icy arrow had shot clear through his heart.
"What!?" he managed to choke out.
Laicristiel nodded enthusiastically, unaware of the increasing agony on the March Warden's face. "Yes. Isn't it marvelous?" she said joyfully. "I knew from the first day that those two were a fine match, destined to be together eternally. I am just so glad for Armir. She has never been happier."
Somehow Haldir was able to find in himself the ability to speak further. "When. . . when have they decided to get married?" he stammered weakly, every fiber of his being dreading the answer.
"Not for a while." Laicristiel said ruefully. "It has been decided that Armir will remain here in Lorien while the rest of the Fellowship continue with the quest. Legolas wishes to keep her safe until he is eventually able to return for her and take her back to Mirkwood with him."
Upon hearing this Haldir was filled with such relief he almost burst out laughing. Armir was staying behind in Lorien and Legolas was leaving her? It sounded almost too good and absurd to be true.
A thousand random thoughts rushed through the elf's mind all in one moment. Perhaps it was not too late. A lot could happen within a few months, and who even knew how long it would take Legolas to come back to Lorien from the quest? There was still time . . . time to win Armir back. Time to take her away from Legolas before she made the biggest mistake of her life.
But then, amidst these tempting schemes, Laicristiel's earlier words echoed back to him.
"She has never been happier. . ."
Haldir frowned, struck with sudden shame at himself. What was he thinking?! How could he be so selfish, always considering only what he felt and wanted? There he was, automatically plotting ways in which to steal Armir away from the elf she loved, without any regard for what made HER happy. That could not be righteous love. It was not what she deserved.
"Haldir? Are you all right?"
Laicristiel must have noticed the guilt clouding his face, for she was now staring up at him with concern in her eyes and a gentle hand upon his stiffened arm. The March Warden quickly feigned a reassuring smile.
"Of course." he said softly, avoiding her gaze as so not to give himself away. "You are right, Laicristiel. This is great news indeed." He paused and took a deep breath. "I too am very happy for Armir. For both of them."
Laicristiel beamed at him, her bright eyes dancing. "Wonderful!" she said cheerfully, clasping her hands together. "You must help me then in entertaining her while Legolas is away. Poor thing. I am certain she will start missing the Prince very much once he leaves tomorrow. It is up to us to prevent her from being too bored or downhearted in the meantime."
Haldir gave no response. He wasn't sure that helping Armir forget her fiancé's absence was a very wise thing for him to do. He feared that he may end up doing too effective a job, and destroy what could be the princess' real chance at eternal bliss.
And, no matter how much he detested Legolas, that was something Haldir never wanted to happen.
* * *
"I do not quite understand, my Lady." Armir said softly, gazing back at the caring, though solemn, face before her. "When we informed you of our decision this morning you told us it was an acceptable plan."
Galadriel sighed and shook her head regretfully. "I know, my darling. I know. . ." she murmured. "And I am sorry it is only now that I am able to inform you of this change. However, you must understand that foretastes cannot be summoned at whim. They come at even unexpected moments."
The Lady touched her great-granddaughter's arm gently. "But this is for certain now, Armir." she told her firmly. "You cannot allow the Fellowship to depart without you. You must go with them, for your task is not over." She paused, and looked into the young elf's eyes. "They will fail without you.."
Armir observed the fixed seriousness on Galadriel's face and immediately felt dread wash through her. It was clear from her expression and tone of voice that this matter in discussion was indeed a grave one, and cannot be contested.
Still confused by this sudden resolution, Armir frowned. "How can that be?" she said anxiously. "How can I be so important as to actually be necessary? All throughout our journey I have never felt as though I was really able to contribute anything. As a matter of fact, I have been barely more than a burden, and an extra responsibility to both Aragorn and Legolas."
At this, Galadriel smiled at her kindly. "That is where you are clearly mistaken, child." she told the puzzled elf. "After all this time, you have still not understood yourself, or the inborn power you possess within you."
"Power?" Armir repeated incredulously, her innocent eyes widening. "But I have no powers!" she exclaimed, shaking her head vigorously. "I cannot even manage to defend myself in battle! I am but weak and helpless."
Galadriel laughed softly at her panicked negation. "Then perhaps you should alter your concept of what power is." she chided. "Have you not noticed all the good you have done, Armir? All the pain you have gone through, and all you have borne to help your companions get this far?"
"I do not know what it is that you speak of. . ." Armir whispered, now truly perplexed by her great-grandmother's words.
Galadriel smiled at her and reached out with a graceful hand. She lightly touched the young maiden's chest, just above her heart.
"You strength lies here." she told her quietly. "In the goodness of your heart, and in the kindness of your soul. Never underestimate the influence of a soul that is immaculately pure, for it is indeed the greatest power of all."
"I . . . I do not think I understand what you mean." Armir stammered.
"In whom did Frodo find comfort when times were hard?" Galadriel asked in place of an answer. "To whom did the hobbits turn for cheer when they were downcast or afraid? Who kept everyone's spirits alive during the weariest moments of the journey?"
The Lady paused and shook her head. "It was none other than you, my dear, though you may not have been conscious about it. I can assure you-- the courage and strength of your comrades would have crumbled easily had it not been for your compassionate presence amongst them."
"But . . . how?"
"Your beauty and radiance go far deeper than your skin." Galadriel said kindly. "Even more so than any normal elf. There is encouragement in your smile, warmth in your arms, and wisdom in your words. The mere sight of you is enough to give others around you consolation. Sharing pain, relieving sadness and worries, shining light against evil-- those are your gifts."
As Armir listened carefully to these explanations, her mind flashed back to events that have taken prior to their arrival in Lorien.
She remembered her conversations with Frodo.
"There is something about that makes you different from the others I have met before. Something magical."
Was that not what he had said once?
Then she recalled all her fun experiences with the other hobbits, and how they were always so eager for her company, jumping at every slight opportunity to spend some time with her.
Then came back the memory of their trip through Moria. She remembered all the strange emotions and weakness she had sensed while they were running from the orcs and during the appearance of the Balrog. How she had felt so much pain and suffering right before she blacked out due to the torture of it all.
Did this have any connection to her so-called powers?
"Indeed it does."
Armir gasped, slightly startled by the sudden interruption of Galadriel's voice into her deep thoughts. The Lady smiled apologetically, as though saying sorry for having read into her mind, before going on.
"You see, Armir, you are an elf born with an extraordinarily virtuous, sensitive soul. As such, you have the ability to not only sense the feelings of others around you, but to affect them as well."
"A-affect them?" Armir repeated faintly, feeling her whole body weaken suddenly at the implication of these words.
"Yes, either by easing them or by making them stronger." Galadriel responded. "For instance, through your mere presence you were able to strengthen Frodo's resistance to the Ring. In Khazad-dum, you managed to calm the fears of your friends as well as prevent their grief from overcoming them."
"Was that the reason I fell unconscious then?"
Galadriel nodded. "Your own pain, plus the burden of sharing those of the others, combined with the evil but nonetheless powerful influence of the Shadow, proved to be too much for you to handle." she explained somberly. "But do not think of it as weakness. You were wounded, and that was a very sinister hour. The experience took a severe toll upon you."
Armir fell silent, her mind now heavy with all this sudden onslaught of new knowledge. She had longed for answers from the first moment her grandfather spoke to her of joining the Fellowship. But now that she had them, she was no longer sure if they were going to be easy to accept.
Never in her life did she see herself as anything special. She always considered herself as plain and boring as an elf could get, and never even dreamed that one day she would be able to take part in any fantastic adventures or endeavors. When she had set out with the others on the quest, that was the only time she felt the slightest twinge of hope that she would be able to do something great with her life.
But never did she expect anything like this. She, an indispensable member of their group? An elven lady with power over emotions? How was that possible? If ever she did possess such special abilities, she knew she had absolutely no control over them whatsoever.
Did that truly make her an asset?
"Armir?"
Caught up in her own thoughts, the young maiden did not realize that her great-grandmother had now sat down beside her, and was patting her arm to gain back her attention.
"Are you all right?" the Lady inquired, her stunning blue eyes clouding over with concern at the youngling's distressed face.
Armir bit her lip and nodded. "Yes." she sighed. "I am sorry. It is just that this is all a little too much to sort out all at once. I never imagined . . ."
Her soft voice trailed off as she realized something. "Minyaatar. . ." she murmured. "Was he aware of any of these things about me?"
Galadriel smiled and shook her head. "Certainly not. He would have told you if he did. You know that."
"He told me that there was a task along this quest that only I would be able to fulfill. . ." Armir said slowly and hesitantly. "What was it exactly that he knew then?"
"Elrond has the gift of foresight, like I do." Galadriel replied gravely. "He may have witnessed the same things I have, which is a very indistinct vision of what would come to pass had you not gone on this quest. It is vague, but understandable nonetheless." She paused and looked at Armir significantly.
"Failure. . . and all the horrors that will result from it."
Armir felt a shiver run through her at the sound of the Lady's ominous tone and expression. Upon noticing the frightened look on the princess' face, Galadriel immediately softened.
"That is why I speak of this now, my child." she said calmly and soothingly. "I know that Legolas wishes to keep you, his future wife, safe by having you remain here in Lorien, but it simply cannot allowed. I speak for the sake of all on Middle Earth when I say that you must go on. You must continue, and face whatever crucial things lie ahead on your path. There is still a destiny out there, waiting to be fulfilled by none other than you."
Armir took a deep breath and finally nodded. "Yes." she spoke softly but resolutely. "I understand, and Legolas will too. I will go."
The smile that appeared on Galadriel's face reminded Armir of how her grandfather looked when they had exchanged farewells at the Fellowship's departure of Rivendell. Sad, but tremendously proud.
"I see your father's valor in you, little one." she murmured, touching Armir's cheek lovingly. "He would have been very pleased to see you now."
"Thank you." Armir whispered, as she was taken into the Lady's caring embrace.
"I only wish I could give you more warnings or insights of what to expect ahead of you." Galadriel said ruefully when the parted. "But I am both sorry and anxious to say that the future has never more uncertain."
She squeezed Armir's hands tightly. "These are very dark times, little one. It is difficult to distinguish the paths that should be taken from the contrary. You must be very careful."
Armir gave her a reassuring smile. "There is no real need to worry about me." she said confidently. "I have Legolas for protection, and I have strong faith that for as long as he is there, no harm will come upon me."
The greatly troubled expression that filled Galadriel's eyes upon hearing these words struck Armir with immediate uneasiness and growing dread.
"Is there something wrong?" she asked nervously. "My Lady?"
"I so wished that I did not have to tell you this." Galadriel sighed, speaking as though merely thinking out loud. "But it seems that it must be done."
"Tell me what?" The anxiety in Armir's chest was now swelling into full- blown fear.
"Perhaps it would be best for you to see this, and not just hear it through words." Galadriel said.
She took the trembling elf's hand and began to direct her out of the Great Hall.
Both remained silent as they walked through the wood paths into the more remote parts of Caras Galadon. Armir, though puzzled by where her great- grandmother could possibly be leading her, was too nervous to say a word.
At last, they reached an isolated garden enclosed by high hedges. Galadriel led Armir down a long flight of stone steps into a deep hollow. The princess then spotted at the center of the dell a large silver basin resting upon an intricately carved pedestal.
"This is called the Mirror of Galadriel." the Lady told her, her calm voice no more than a hushed whisper. "It is what allows me to witness events that lie in the past, present, and future. It is how I was able to perceive all that I had just spoken to you about."
"Now, it is time for you to have glimpse of your own."
Galadriel gestured encouragingly to Armir, who was standing a timid distance away, urging her to come closer to the Mirror. When she did, the older elf grasped her hands firmly, looking into her anxious blue eyes sympathetically.
"Armir. . ." the great Elven lady began, suddenly appearing slightly hesitant. "I wish nothing more than for you to be happy and have the life you have always dreamed of with an elf you love very much. I know you have found this in Legolas Thranduillion, but. . ."
She paused and took a breath as though the succeeding words were difficult to let out of her mouth.
"I must ask you to reconsider marrying him. . . or even loving him at all."
Her statement, said slowly and clearly, hit Armir like a dagger to the heart as soon as it reached her ears. She was so shocked by it that for a long while she could barely speak, much less breathe freely. Tears began to fill her eyes as the words sank deeper and deeper like a hot blade through butter.
"Why . . . why are you saying this?" she finally managed to choke out, the disbelief and resentfulness unmasked in her voice. She pulled her hands from Galadriel's and backed away.
Galadriel shook her head, the regret upon her fair face as evident as the pain on Armir's. "Armir, please try to understand. It does not delight me to tell you this, but I must." she said sternly. "You cannot allow your romance with Legolas to continue, for it is an ill-fated love. It for both your sakes that I give you this warning. If you do not end this now, great misfortune will result."
"Misfortune!" Armir sobbed. "What more cruel misfortune could there be than not being with Legolas? I love him more than life itself, my Lady. I would sooner die than leave or deny him."
"Then you must see with your own eyes what will happen should you insist on that."
At that moment, for some mysterious reason, Armir was compelled to lift her distraught gaze up and look towards the basin. As soon as her eyes locked on to the dark, placid water that filled it, she soon found that she could no longer move her attention away.
For a while, it appeared as though all there was to see in the Mirror was the reflection of the stars in the night sky above them. However, seconds later, ripples shifted the liquid, and an image slowly materialized before Armir's entranced stare. A horrified gasp escaped her lips as the picture came into clear view. . .
Legolas staggered backwards, hand clutching the shaft of a thick arrow that was embedded into his chest. He lifted his gaze up. His clear blue eyes were dewy with grief and fear, and were starting to cloud over as haziness began to fill his anguished face.
"Armir. . ." he whispered, his voice raspy and extremely weak with pain.
Any further words were cut off by another arrow that came flying to thrust itself into the elf's already injured body. Dropping the bow in his hand, Legolas fell to his knees, a small amount of blood trickling out from the corner of his mouth as he groaned. As the helpless prince collapsed to the ground, a swarm of dark figures piled around him. Orc battle cries filled the air as these fiends began to beat the fallen elf over and over . . .
"NO!!!" Armir screamed. "Legolas!!!"
Only when the terrible vision vanished from the Mirror did Armir recover the ability to turn her face away. Immediately she covered her eyes with her hands, but could not shield herself from the horrible memory of what she had seen. Amidst her hysterical sobs, she felt a comforting hand upon her shoulder and a soft voice speak from behind her.
"I wish I could have told you sooner, before your love for him deepened to the extent it is in now." Galadriel murmured sorrowfully. "But as I had said, the future does not always present itself in the most opportune of times."
Armir wept uncontrollably against her great-grandmother's shoulder as she allowed herself to be taken into her comforting embrace.
"My darling, I am so sorry you had to see that." Galadriel whispered, stroking her hair gently in a futile attempt to ease her ache. "It was the only way I could have convinced you of how serious this is."
"I do not understand how such a thing could happen." Armir whimpered in between ragged sobs. "I would never . ."
"Allow it?" Galadriel finished her sentence. She then sighed. "Yes, you see, that is precisely how Legolas feels about you as well. He cares for you so much he forgets to care for himself."
Armir stared up at her through her tears. "You mean . . . ?"
"He is determined to keep you safe no matter what, Armir." Galadriel told her gravely. "Even at the cost of his own life."
"I will never let him do such a thing!" Armir gasped, resolve suddenly hardening her face and voice.
"Do you really think you will be able to stop him?" Galadriel challenged. "He will never cease risking his life for yours. At least, not as long as he knows he holds your heart. As your lover he knows your security is a serious responsibility he must carry."
"He will die protecting you, Armir." the Lady said, her grim tone making it clear that her words were not to be opposed. "Whether it is in the near or distant future, it is uncertain, but you know in your heart as well I that it is not impossible. There maybe, however, one way to keep this fatality from taking place. . . if you are strong enough to take it."
There was a long pause before Armir found the courage to speak again. Her voice shook as did the rest of her slim body, but she managed to utter the question she dreaded most.
"How? How can I prevent it?" she whispered, sounding defeated but determined.
Galadriel looked her straight in the eye, all tenderness vanishing to make way for harsh firmness.
"You must end Legolas' love for you, and likewise end your love for him."
* * *
COMING UP . . . Chapter 10 - Denial
Oh cruel world! What will happen to them now?! You'll have to wait for the next update to see!
Look on the bright side. . . you can help me make it faster by R-E-V-I-E-W- I-N-G! ;p
Thanks for coming guys! See you soon! (I hope!)