Author's Note: This is the last chapter! There's a short epilogue as well,
but this is the last official chapter and it's pretty long! I hope you all
enjoy it!
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Chapter 16
Êlcàlë walked around the next afternoon, helping out anywhere that she could and making sure she was around when needed. There was a hustle and bustle in the White City and a sense of confidence along with fear that is usually present before an upcoming battle. The women and children were to be hidden away into a secret passage in the castle. The soldiers prepared themselves for the battle mentally and physically with armour, willing to fight to the death for their home and for the king they all loved. Êlcàlë brought any soldiers with previous injuries from battle back to top shape as she walked among Aragorn's people. By the time everything was set, night was about to fall, and she took the extra time to go search out her friends, who were preparing for the battle themselves, down in the armoury.
"Good," Aragorn said as she walked into the armoury. "I was just about to send for you. Here, take this," he said as he handed Êlcàlë chain mail and a helmet. "The chainmail might be a bit big, but it will serve its purpose." "Thank you," Êlcàlë said as she took off her outer tunic and proceeded to put on the chainmail. It was quite heavy, but Êlcàlë hoped it wouldn't hinder her movements later. She gave a smile to Arwen, who had also put on some armour, and silently, the two women moved away to have a conversation.
"Armour is very becoming on you, my friend," Êlcàlë said, getting the reaction she had wanted as Arwen laughed. "You as well, lovely one," Arwen said as she fingered the chainmail on Êlcàlë. "Could you promise me something?" Êlcàlë asked after their mirth had died down. "Two things, actually." "If it is within my power to do something for you, I will do it, friend," Arwen said, as a twinkle passed in her eyes. "Of course, I cannot ask the moon to turn red or have chickens fly!" This caused the two beings to laugh again and even harder when the males in the room started throwing them odd looks. Arwen and Êlcàlë had been speaking so quietly, not even Legolas was able to hear them and now the males wondered what had come over the two fair beings. "Promise me, that you will stay safe," Êlcàlë said, her eyes pleading. "I do not doubt your skills, but you have become like a sister to me, and I cannot think about this city without you being here as well." "I will stay safe," Arwen said, giving Êlcàlë a hug. "As long as you stay safe as well, sister of my heart." "The next thing is," Êlcàlë said as she took a deep breath. "If anything should happen to me, please, help me take care of Legolas. Do not let him waste away with grief. His path is greater than that." "I will help him," Arwen said, her eyes sad. "But I will not need to, because you are brave and a fighter. You will be fine." Êlcàlë smiled and nodded as Aragorn came over at that moment to whisk his wife away for a short chat of their own. She stood alone for a moment, but Legolas soon came over to join her.
"It is almost time," Legolas said, unsure of what to say next. "Is there something else you wish to say, my love?" Êlcàlë said, sensing his distress. "You have never been afraid to speak with me before. Do not let the last moments before battle be any different." "I wish to bind myself to you," Legolas said, holding a hand up as Êlcàlë started to speak. "You are part elven, and you may live longer than longer than other humans, we do not know yet. If so, and you are still with me when it is time for me to cross the sea to the Grey Havens, I will take you with me. I don't care if they turn the ship around, saying you do not belong there. If that were to happen, then I will turn the ship around, and stay here with you. If you should pass before I leave these shores, then I will go over, but you are the only one that will belong in my heart for all eternity." "Promise me," Êlcàlë said as she listened through his rambling speech. "You will pass to the Grey Havens when your time comes, along with Gimli, with or without me. No, do not argue with me, just promise me." "I promise," Legolas said as he embraced Êlcàlë. "Marry me." "What?" Êlcàlë said, not sure if she had heard right. "Marry me, Êlcàlë," Legolas said again, sincerity in his eyes. "Marry me." "Yes," Êlcàlë said, hugging him again. "A thousand times, yes," she said, and she heard Legolas give out a small chuckle. "But my love," Legolas said as he pulled out of the embrace. "We only need to be wed once!" he said, causing both of them to go into fits of laughter. When their laughter had died down, Legolas placed a hand under Êlcàlë's chin, tilting her head up. "With this kiss, I bind myself to thee, for all of our days, and for all eternity." Legolas bent down and kissed Êlcàlë softly on the lips, binding them together, their souls now one. "You rhyme, you know," Êlcàlë said with a mischievous smile. "I wonder if it is a trait with all elves, or of just a certain, more arrogant elf." Legolas raised an eyebrow at her, but smiled at her light jab. He took her hand and led her back towards Aragorn, Arwen, and Gimli. "My friends, I have wonderful news," Legolas said as they reached the table their friends were standing around, littered with their weapons. "Êlcàlë and I are to be wed." "Congratulations, mellon nin!" Aragorn said, clapping Legolas on the back. "Good news is much needed in times like these!" "We should head outside," Arwen said as she smiled at the news. Gimli was joyful as well, letting a small whoop when he had heard the news. "The battle will begin soon."
~*~
Outside, the sun had almost finished its descent, spreading a dark red and purple light through the sky. Already, the orcs and wargs could be heard approaching by any ears keen enough to hear them. The peace of the world was disturbed by the hideous beings and the wargs, causing everything to grow deathly quiet. Out of nowhere, a bird chirp sounded from Êlcàlë's left and she looked down to see a small bird. In fact, it was the same bird that had paid her a visit in her room that morning, so long ago.
"Hello, little friend," Êlcàlë said as she reached down to pet its head. "Have you come to wish me luck?" With a chirp, the bird flew up and circled Aragorn, Gimli, Arwen, Legolas, and Êlcàlë three times as if in blessing and went off into the night. "You make curious friends, young one," Gimli said as they all watched the bird fly away. "Come," Aragorn said as he led them to their positions. "The battle is about to begin."
~*~
Êlcàlë lost all sense of time as the battle began. The wargs rushed forward first, some bearing riders, but most on their own. Most of the orcs stayed back, as if they were meant to be a secondary line of attack. Êlcàlë, Legolas, Arwen, and Aragorn took out as many of the wargs as possible before they reached the soldiers. Êlcàlë took a split second to amaze herself at how Aragorn could seem to be everywhere at once, protecting his people, who were, in turn, protecting him, though he needed little assistance. Only a handful of the wargs reached the men compared to the numbers they had had before, and Legolas and Arwen made quick work of them as well. Gimli, who swung his axe right into the beast's neck, felling it instantly, killed the last warg. There were injured men on the battlefield already, and some dead, unable to avoid the wargs in time. Êlcàlë ran around, saving those who were mortally wounded, hoping she wasn't too late, as Gimli, true to his word, stayed close by. Though she wouldn't admit it, slewing orcs as she tried to reach the next person and healing them were starting to take a toll on her. She was beginning to feel the effects of the wounds she was healing more profoundly now, but in her mind, she kept telling herself to keep going. Whenever she healed one of the soldiers, she would turn around and look to make sure that her friends were okay. At this moment, Arwen was fighting not too far away from where she was, Aragorn was being swarmed by orcs, all wanting a piece of the king, which was a big mistake as they were cut down like trees one by one with Aragorn's mighty sword. Gimli was behind Êlcàlë, defending her and himself as she made her quick scan. An orc appeared in her line of vision and she decapitated it, the sword Glorfindel had given her singing through the air.
"Where is Legolas?" Êlcàlë thought to herself as she quickly scanned the battlefield again, worried beyond belief. She let out a breath she didn't know she had been holding when she found him, in the thick of the battle, fighting off more orcs than could be counted by himself. "Something wrong?" Gimli asked when they had a moment of peace between the swarms of orcs. Unfortunately, during the time they were getting ready for the battle, more orcs had joined the evil ranks, increasing their numbers and their chances at winning. "Gimli, go help Legolas," Êlcàlë said nodding her head in the direction Legolas was in. "He seems to have gotten himself into a predicament of sorts. He will need you to save him every so often I think. Do not worry about me, I will be fine, my friend. Go." Gimli looked perplexed for a moment but nodded and headed off to go help Legolas, who was starting to get overpowered by the orcs he was fighting. Orcs didn't like elves because the elves were so beautiful, pure, and full of light. Elves were reminders of what orcs used to be before they were mutilated by the dark powers and were hated because of it. Just then, Êlcàlë heard a scream and turned to find Haleth dropping to the ground. She rushed over to him and fought off the orcs trying to finish their job. Êlcàlë bent down over the fallen man to find that he was still alive. "Milady," Haleth gasped and looked over her shoulder. Without a thought, Êlcàlë turned and blocked an orc from taking off her head. Jumping up, she blocked another blow and spun, swinging her sword in a wide arc, cutting the hideous beast's throat. When they were out of danger, Êlcàlë bent over Haleth again and the familiar white light grew in the palm of her hand. Moments later, Haleth was fine and he jumped up and steadied Êlcàlë, who was struggling to her feet. "I'm fine," Êlcàlë said firmly as her head stopped spinning. "Go. You are needed by your king," she said and Haleth turned and ran to his king who was fighting near the stairs of his palace along with a handful of his soldiers.
Êlcàlë did a quick scan of the battlefield again and what she saw made her blood run cold. As her eyes focused on Arwen, an orc pierced her abdomen with his crude blade, eliciting a small cry of pain from the queen. The orc however, had no time to celebrate as Arwen swung her sword around and beheaded the orc before sinking to the ground. "No," Êlcàlë breathed to herself. "No!" As quick as light itself it seemed, Êlcàlë ran to her friend, fury blinding her killing blows to any of the orcs standing in her way. "Take care of Aragorn, my friend," Arwen said as Êlcàlë rushed to her side. "No, Arwen," Êlcàlë said as she placed a hand over the wound. "I will not let you give up so easily. Fight it, sister of my heart." The white light from Êlcàlë's palm did its job, sealing the wound and giving Arwen some of her strength back. Suddenly, Êlcàlë felt tired, and the pain was overwhelming. The pain of the all the wounds she had cured in those few hours overcame her. All she felt was pain.pain. Arwen opened her eyes to see an orc standing over both of them, but before he struck his blow, a surprised look went across his face and he fell, an arrow stuck in his back. The last thing Êlcàlë remember seeing was the face of a man with shoulder-length sandy brown hair, helping up the queen and Arwen's distressed look as she bent down to look in on her fallen friend, before blackness took Êlcàlë and she slipped into unconsciousness.
~*~
Êlcàlë awoke and found herself lying in a field full of beautiful flowers and sat up to see that it was a gorgeous summer's day with the warm sun beaming down onto her skin.
"Hello, child," a soft, but deep voice said from behind her. Êlcàlë turned to find herself looking at Gandalf the White, but he wasn't alone. Elrond, and Galadriel stood with him as well. "Where am I, Gandalf?" Êlcàlë said as she ran over to embrace the half- elven lord and the Lady of Light. "You are in your mind's world," Elrond said as he looked around. "We were permitted to come here, to guide you back." "Guide me back where?" Êlcàlë said, looking rather confused. "Do you remember anything?" Galadriel asked, peering at the younger being. "Yes," Êlcàlë said as memories flooded through her. "Gondor is under attack, I was there and I fell unconscious. I need to go back, they need my help!" "Relax, child," Gandalf said. "The battle is already won. But you will go back, in time, for it is now your time to leave yet. Before you go, you have a decision to make." "What decision is that?" Êlcàlë asked wearily, remembering the last decision she was given. "Do not worry, young one," Galadriel said, smiling. "You have been giving a choice." "A choice in what?" Êlcàlë asked, looking from one face to another. "A choice that was given to me as well," Elrond said. "You are only part- elven, but Ilùvatar smiles down upon you. He has given you a choice. You can choose to live as you always have, with the Gift of Man, like my brother once did, or you can choose to be an immortal." "I can?" Êlcàlë said incredulously. "Why would he give me this chance?" "You would have gladly given your life to save those you hold dear in this world," Galadriel said. "When Ilùvatar spoke to you in the tunnel between your world and ours, he knew, that you would be worthy of this choice." "Now," Gandalf said as he leaned slightly on his staff. "What is your choice?" "If I choose to be an immortal, will my appearance change?" Êlcàlë asked, unsure of how it all works. "I do not mind if my ears change, but I do not want to change anything else. You see, my height I got from my father, my hair colour from my mother, and my eyes from my grandfather. All the knowledge I possess was given to me by a family friend, and the wisdom I use everyday was given to me by my grandmother. If it is possible, I would like to keep all of the pieces of my family with me, where they belong, for I am nothing without them." "If that is your wish," Ilùvatar's voice said, filling the air. "Then it shall be. The love you have for the people around you is one of the things I admired about you, young one. Now, it is time for you to go back."
~*~
Legolas, Arwen, Gimli, and Aragorn watched in amazement as Êlcàlë's body began to glow. When the soft glow died down, Êlcàlë's eyes flew open and she sat up, feeling much better.
"Êlcàlë!" Legolas said as he sprang up from his chair and embraced Êlcàlë. "What happened?" "I fell unconscious," Êlcàlë said as an explanation. "I am sorry," Gimli said, his face grief stricken. "I should never have left." "Nay, my friend, I told you to leave," Êlcàlë said, comforting the stout being. "You were needed by others we care about." "Thank you," Arwen said, embracing Êlcàlë. "I would not be here if not for you." "And I wouldn't be here, either," Êlcàlë said, hugging back. "If not for you, and that other man." "Faramir," Aragorn said, giving a name to the mysterious man. "He came back in time with some of my men and we defeated the orcs. He is outside right now, seeing to the wounded and disposing of the orc bodies." "How many of your soldiers fell?" Êlcàlë asked softly, feeling guilty. "Few in comparison of what could have happened," Aragorn said firmly. "Do not be troubled, my friend, you have saved many lives and we will forever be grateful for you." "Let's not speak of these matters now," Legolas said as he lightly pushed Êlcàlë back down onto her pillows. "Get some rest," he said as he went to tuck some hair behind her ears. What he saw caused him to let out a gasp. "Êlcàlë, your ears!" Êlcàlë reached up and felt the pointed tip of an elven ear. "I was given a choice," Êlcàlë said as sat up again. "To live with the Gift of Man, or be an elf. I chose to be an elf, Legolas." A cry of joy rang out from all present, for they knew that this was, indeed, a good turn of events for the two lovers. "You can't get rid of me that easily." "I would never want to," Legolas said as he placed a kiss on Êlcàlë's forehead. "Now, get some rest."
~*~
"You are now husband and wife," Aragorn said as he looked at the lovely couple. Legolas bent to kiss Êlcàlë and sealed their marital bond of eternity. All those present clapped and cheered as the happy couple walked back down the hall. There were many friendly faces there, including Glorfindel, Elladan, Elrohir, Celeborn, Haldir, and Thranduil, who had all come to see Legolas and Êlcàlë get married. Most of Gondor was present as well and Gimli the dwarf.
That night, amid all the joyous festivities, Êlcàlë stood up her white gown flowing around her, and went to Glorfindel.
"Remember the song I was humming, grandfather, back in Rivendell?" Êlcàlë asked as Glorfindel nodded. "You wanted me to sing it for you, but I cannot do it alone, so Legolas will help me." With that said, Legolas got up as well and nodded to the band, who knew the music to the song, thanks to Êlcàlë. It hadn't taken Legolas long to memorize the words to the song, and as the music started, everyone quieted down and Êlcàlë started to sing first, followed by Legolas. The song was a familiar one in Êlcàlë's world, sung by Richard Marx and Donna Lewis. It was called At The Beginning.
Êlcàlë: We were strangers
Starting out on a journey
Never dreaming what we'd have to go through
Now here we are
And I'm suddenly standing
At the beginning with you
Legolas: No one told me I was going to find you
Unexpected, what you did to my heart
Both: When I lost hope
You were there to remind me
This is the start
And life is a road, and I want to keep going
Love is a river I want to keep flowing
Life is a road, now and forever
Wonderful journey
I'll be there when the world stops turning
I'll be there when the storm is through
At the end I want to be standing at the beginning
With you
Êlcàlë: We were strangers
On a crazy adventure
Legolas: Never dreaming how are dreams could come true
Both: Now here we stand
Unafraid of the future
At the beginning with you
And life is a road, and I want to keep going
Love is a river I want to keep flowing
Life is a road, now and forever
Wonderful journey
I'll be there when the world stops turning
I'll be there when the storm is through
At the end I want to be standing at the beginning
With you
I knew there was somebody somewhere
Like me alone in the dark
Now I know my dream will live on
I've been waiting so long
Nothing's going to tear us apart
And life is a road and I want to going
Love is a river I want to keep flowing
Life is a road, now and forever
Wonderful journey
I'll be there when the world stops turning
I'll be there when the storm is through
In the end I want to be standing at the beginning
With you
Life is a road, and I want to keep going
Love is a river I want to keep going on
Êlcàlë: Starting out on a journey
Both:
Life is a road and I want to keep going
Love is a river I want to keep flowing
In the end I want to be standing at the beginning
With you.
When they were finished, there was a silence as the music died down, but then the whole dining hall erupted into applause. The song was perfect for them, and their elven voices made the song sound even better. "Beautiful," Glorfindel said, giving Êlcàlë a peck on the cheek. "I'm glad waited to sing that song. It was truly perfect for today."
Later that night, when most of the people had gone home, Legolas and Êlcàlë took the chance to go out to the balcony. The moon was full and the stars were brighter than ever.
"My little wife," Legolas said, twirling Êlcàlë around. She had changed during the duration of the night into a deep red dress, the same one she had worn on her first day in Middle Earth. The fabric swirled around her. "Little you say, my husband?" Êlcàlë said, raising an eyebrow. "I'm not that much shorter than you." "Short enough to be perfect for me," Legolas said embracing her. "I have a surprise for you," Êlcàlë said, turning back to look at Legolas. "What is it?" Legolas said, noting how her eyes twinkled. He really didn't want this moment to end. "I'm with child," Êlcàlë said softly enough so only Legolas heard. Legolas looked shocked for a moment, but broke into a wide grin and let out a loud whoop as he picked Êlcàlë up off the ground by her waist and spun her in a circle. His cry of joy had attracted the attention of all their family and close friends, who came over now to see what had caused Legolas to be so happy. When they heard the news, everyone took their turns hugging the soon-to-be parents. "A child of our own," Legolas said as he embraced his wife again. "I wonder if it will be a little boy or a little girl?" he pondered out loud, placing a hand on Êlcàlë's stomach. "We will find out soon," Êlcàlë said with a laugh. "Now, what do you want to name our child?"
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crazzymonkey: This is it! Thanks for your review!
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Chapter 16
Êlcàlë walked around the next afternoon, helping out anywhere that she could and making sure she was around when needed. There was a hustle and bustle in the White City and a sense of confidence along with fear that is usually present before an upcoming battle. The women and children were to be hidden away into a secret passage in the castle. The soldiers prepared themselves for the battle mentally and physically with armour, willing to fight to the death for their home and for the king they all loved. Êlcàlë brought any soldiers with previous injuries from battle back to top shape as she walked among Aragorn's people. By the time everything was set, night was about to fall, and she took the extra time to go search out her friends, who were preparing for the battle themselves, down in the armoury.
"Good," Aragorn said as she walked into the armoury. "I was just about to send for you. Here, take this," he said as he handed Êlcàlë chain mail and a helmet. "The chainmail might be a bit big, but it will serve its purpose." "Thank you," Êlcàlë said as she took off her outer tunic and proceeded to put on the chainmail. It was quite heavy, but Êlcàlë hoped it wouldn't hinder her movements later. She gave a smile to Arwen, who had also put on some armour, and silently, the two women moved away to have a conversation.
"Armour is very becoming on you, my friend," Êlcàlë said, getting the reaction she had wanted as Arwen laughed. "You as well, lovely one," Arwen said as she fingered the chainmail on Êlcàlë. "Could you promise me something?" Êlcàlë asked after their mirth had died down. "Two things, actually." "If it is within my power to do something for you, I will do it, friend," Arwen said, as a twinkle passed in her eyes. "Of course, I cannot ask the moon to turn red or have chickens fly!" This caused the two beings to laugh again and even harder when the males in the room started throwing them odd looks. Arwen and Êlcàlë had been speaking so quietly, not even Legolas was able to hear them and now the males wondered what had come over the two fair beings. "Promise me, that you will stay safe," Êlcàlë said, her eyes pleading. "I do not doubt your skills, but you have become like a sister to me, and I cannot think about this city without you being here as well." "I will stay safe," Arwen said, giving Êlcàlë a hug. "As long as you stay safe as well, sister of my heart." "The next thing is," Êlcàlë said as she took a deep breath. "If anything should happen to me, please, help me take care of Legolas. Do not let him waste away with grief. His path is greater than that." "I will help him," Arwen said, her eyes sad. "But I will not need to, because you are brave and a fighter. You will be fine." Êlcàlë smiled and nodded as Aragorn came over at that moment to whisk his wife away for a short chat of their own. She stood alone for a moment, but Legolas soon came over to join her.
"It is almost time," Legolas said, unsure of what to say next. "Is there something else you wish to say, my love?" Êlcàlë said, sensing his distress. "You have never been afraid to speak with me before. Do not let the last moments before battle be any different." "I wish to bind myself to you," Legolas said, holding a hand up as Êlcàlë started to speak. "You are part elven, and you may live longer than longer than other humans, we do not know yet. If so, and you are still with me when it is time for me to cross the sea to the Grey Havens, I will take you with me. I don't care if they turn the ship around, saying you do not belong there. If that were to happen, then I will turn the ship around, and stay here with you. If you should pass before I leave these shores, then I will go over, but you are the only one that will belong in my heart for all eternity." "Promise me," Êlcàlë said as she listened through his rambling speech. "You will pass to the Grey Havens when your time comes, along with Gimli, with or without me. No, do not argue with me, just promise me." "I promise," Legolas said as he embraced Êlcàlë. "Marry me." "What?" Êlcàlë said, not sure if she had heard right. "Marry me, Êlcàlë," Legolas said again, sincerity in his eyes. "Marry me." "Yes," Êlcàlë said, hugging him again. "A thousand times, yes," she said, and she heard Legolas give out a small chuckle. "But my love," Legolas said as he pulled out of the embrace. "We only need to be wed once!" he said, causing both of them to go into fits of laughter. When their laughter had died down, Legolas placed a hand under Êlcàlë's chin, tilting her head up. "With this kiss, I bind myself to thee, for all of our days, and for all eternity." Legolas bent down and kissed Êlcàlë softly on the lips, binding them together, their souls now one. "You rhyme, you know," Êlcàlë said with a mischievous smile. "I wonder if it is a trait with all elves, or of just a certain, more arrogant elf." Legolas raised an eyebrow at her, but smiled at her light jab. He took her hand and led her back towards Aragorn, Arwen, and Gimli. "My friends, I have wonderful news," Legolas said as they reached the table their friends were standing around, littered with their weapons. "Êlcàlë and I are to be wed." "Congratulations, mellon nin!" Aragorn said, clapping Legolas on the back. "Good news is much needed in times like these!" "We should head outside," Arwen said as she smiled at the news. Gimli was joyful as well, letting a small whoop when he had heard the news. "The battle will begin soon."
~*~
Outside, the sun had almost finished its descent, spreading a dark red and purple light through the sky. Already, the orcs and wargs could be heard approaching by any ears keen enough to hear them. The peace of the world was disturbed by the hideous beings and the wargs, causing everything to grow deathly quiet. Out of nowhere, a bird chirp sounded from Êlcàlë's left and she looked down to see a small bird. In fact, it was the same bird that had paid her a visit in her room that morning, so long ago.
"Hello, little friend," Êlcàlë said as she reached down to pet its head. "Have you come to wish me luck?" With a chirp, the bird flew up and circled Aragorn, Gimli, Arwen, Legolas, and Êlcàlë three times as if in blessing and went off into the night. "You make curious friends, young one," Gimli said as they all watched the bird fly away. "Come," Aragorn said as he led them to their positions. "The battle is about to begin."
~*~
Êlcàlë lost all sense of time as the battle began. The wargs rushed forward first, some bearing riders, but most on their own. Most of the orcs stayed back, as if they were meant to be a secondary line of attack. Êlcàlë, Legolas, Arwen, and Aragorn took out as many of the wargs as possible before they reached the soldiers. Êlcàlë took a split second to amaze herself at how Aragorn could seem to be everywhere at once, protecting his people, who were, in turn, protecting him, though he needed little assistance. Only a handful of the wargs reached the men compared to the numbers they had had before, and Legolas and Arwen made quick work of them as well. Gimli, who swung his axe right into the beast's neck, felling it instantly, killed the last warg. There were injured men on the battlefield already, and some dead, unable to avoid the wargs in time. Êlcàlë ran around, saving those who were mortally wounded, hoping she wasn't too late, as Gimli, true to his word, stayed close by. Though she wouldn't admit it, slewing orcs as she tried to reach the next person and healing them were starting to take a toll on her. She was beginning to feel the effects of the wounds she was healing more profoundly now, but in her mind, she kept telling herself to keep going. Whenever she healed one of the soldiers, she would turn around and look to make sure that her friends were okay. At this moment, Arwen was fighting not too far away from where she was, Aragorn was being swarmed by orcs, all wanting a piece of the king, which was a big mistake as they were cut down like trees one by one with Aragorn's mighty sword. Gimli was behind Êlcàlë, defending her and himself as she made her quick scan. An orc appeared in her line of vision and she decapitated it, the sword Glorfindel had given her singing through the air.
"Where is Legolas?" Êlcàlë thought to herself as she quickly scanned the battlefield again, worried beyond belief. She let out a breath she didn't know she had been holding when she found him, in the thick of the battle, fighting off more orcs than could be counted by himself. "Something wrong?" Gimli asked when they had a moment of peace between the swarms of orcs. Unfortunately, during the time they were getting ready for the battle, more orcs had joined the evil ranks, increasing their numbers and their chances at winning. "Gimli, go help Legolas," Êlcàlë said nodding her head in the direction Legolas was in. "He seems to have gotten himself into a predicament of sorts. He will need you to save him every so often I think. Do not worry about me, I will be fine, my friend. Go." Gimli looked perplexed for a moment but nodded and headed off to go help Legolas, who was starting to get overpowered by the orcs he was fighting. Orcs didn't like elves because the elves were so beautiful, pure, and full of light. Elves were reminders of what orcs used to be before they were mutilated by the dark powers and were hated because of it. Just then, Êlcàlë heard a scream and turned to find Haleth dropping to the ground. She rushed over to him and fought off the orcs trying to finish their job. Êlcàlë bent down over the fallen man to find that he was still alive. "Milady," Haleth gasped and looked over her shoulder. Without a thought, Êlcàlë turned and blocked an orc from taking off her head. Jumping up, she blocked another blow and spun, swinging her sword in a wide arc, cutting the hideous beast's throat. When they were out of danger, Êlcàlë bent over Haleth again and the familiar white light grew in the palm of her hand. Moments later, Haleth was fine and he jumped up and steadied Êlcàlë, who was struggling to her feet. "I'm fine," Êlcàlë said firmly as her head stopped spinning. "Go. You are needed by your king," she said and Haleth turned and ran to his king who was fighting near the stairs of his palace along with a handful of his soldiers.
Êlcàlë did a quick scan of the battlefield again and what she saw made her blood run cold. As her eyes focused on Arwen, an orc pierced her abdomen with his crude blade, eliciting a small cry of pain from the queen. The orc however, had no time to celebrate as Arwen swung her sword around and beheaded the orc before sinking to the ground. "No," Êlcàlë breathed to herself. "No!" As quick as light itself it seemed, Êlcàlë ran to her friend, fury blinding her killing blows to any of the orcs standing in her way. "Take care of Aragorn, my friend," Arwen said as Êlcàlë rushed to her side. "No, Arwen," Êlcàlë said as she placed a hand over the wound. "I will not let you give up so easily. Fight it, sister of my heart." The white light from Êlcàlë's palm did its job, sealing the wound and giving Arwen some of her strength back. Suddenly, Êlcàlë felt tired, and the pain was overwhelming. The pain of the all the wounds she had cured in those few hours overcame her. All she felt was pain.pain. Arwen opened her eyes to see an orc standing over both of them, but before he struck his blow, a surprised look went across his face and he fell, an arrow stuck in his back. The last thing Êlcàlë remember seeing was the face of a man with shoulder-length sandy brown hair, helping up the queen and Arwen's distressed look as she bent down to look in on her fallen friend, before blackness took Êlcàlë and she slipped into unconsciousness.
~*~
Êlcàlë awoke and found herself lying in a field full of beautiful flowers and sat up to see that it was a gorgeous summer's day with the warm sun beaming down onto her skin.
"Hello, child," a soft, but deep voice said from behind her. Êlcàlë turned to find herself looking at Gandalf the White, but he wasn't alone. Elrond, and Galadriel stood with him as well. "Where am I, Gandalf?" Êlcàlë said as she ran over to embrace the half- elven lord and the Lady of Light. "You are in your mind's world," Elrond said as he looked around. "We were permitted to come here, to guide you back." "Guide me back where?" Êlcàlë said, looking rather confused. "Do you remember anything?" Galadriel asked, peering at the younger being. "Yes," Êlcàlë said as memories flooded through her. "Gondor is under attack, I was there and I fell unconscious. I need to go back, they need my help!" "Relax, child," Gandalf said. "The battle is already won. But you will go back, in time, for it is now your time to leave yet. Before you go, you have a decision to make." "What decision is that?" Êlcàlë asked wearily, remembering the last decision she was given. "Do not worry, young one," Galadriel said, smiling. "You have been giving a choice." "A choice in what?" Êlcàlë asked, looking from one face to another. "A choice that was given to me as well," Elrond said. "You are only part- elven, but Ilùvatar smiles down upon you. He has given you a choice. You can choose to live as you always have, with the Gift of Man, like my brother once did, or you can choose to be an immortal." "I can?" Êlcàlë said incredulously. "Why would he give me this chance?" "You would have gladly given your life to save those you hold dear in this world," Galadriel said. "When Ilùvatar spoke to you in the tunnel between your world and ours, he knew, that you would be worthy of this choice." "Now," Gandalf said as he leaned slightly on his staff. "What is your choice?" "If I choose to be an immortal, will my appearance change?" Êlcàlë asked, unsure of how it all works. "I do not mind if my ears change, but I do not want to change anything else. You see, my height I got from my father, my hair colour from my mother, and my eyes from my grandfather. All the knowledge I possess was given to me by a family friend, and the wisdom I use everyday was given to me by my grandmother. If it is possible, I would like to keep all of the pieces of my family with me, where they belong, for I am nothing without them." "If that is your wish," Ilùvatar's voice said, filling the air. "Then it shall be. The love you have for the people around you is one of the things I admired about you, young one. Now, it is time for you to go back."
~*~
Legolas, Arwen, Gimli, and Aragorn watched in amazement as Êlcàlë's body began to glow. When the soft glow died down, Êlcàlë's eyes flew open and she sat up, feeling much better.
"Êlcàlë!" Legolas said as he sprang up from his chair and embraced Êlcàlë. "What happened?" "I fell unconscious," Êlcàlë said as an explanation. "I am sorry," Gimli said, his face grief stricken. "I should never have left." "Nay, my friend, I told you to leave," Êlcàlë said, comforting the stout being. "You were needed by others we care about." "Thank you," Arwen said, embracing Êlcàlë. "I would not be here if not for you." "And I wouldn't be here, either," Êlcàlë said, hugging back. "If not for you, and that other man." "Faramir," Aragorn said, giving a name to the mysterious man. "He came back in time with some of my men and we defeated the orcs. He is outside right now, seeing to the wounded and disposing of the orc bodies." "How many of your soldiers fell?" Êlcàlë asked softly, feeling guilty. "Few in comparison of what could have happened," Aragorn said firmly. "Do not be troubled, my friend, you have saved many lives and we will forever be grateful for you." "Let's not speak of these matters now," Legolas said as he lightly pushed Êlcàlë back down onto her pillows. "Get some rest," he said as he went to tuck some hair behind her ears. What he saw caused him to let out a gasp. "Êlcàlë, your ears!" Êlcàlë reached up and felt the pointed tip of an elven ear. "I was given a choice," Êlcàlë said as sat up again. "To live with the Gift of Man, or be an elf. I chose to be an elf, Legolas." A cry of joy rang out from all present, for they knew that this was, indeed, a good turn of events for the two lovers. "You can't get rid of me that easily." "I would never want to," Legolas said as he placed a kiss on Êlcàlë's forehead. "Now, get some rest."
~*~
"You are now husband and wife," Aragorn said as he looked at the lovely couple. Legolas bent to kiss Êlcàlë and sealed their marital bond of eternity. All those present clapped and cheered as the happy couple walked back down the hall. There were many friendly faces there, including Glorfindel, Elladan, Elrohir, Celeborn, Haldir, and Thranduil, who had all come to see Legolas and Êlcàlë get married. Most of Gondor was present as well and Gimli the dwarf.
That night, amid all the joyous festivities, Êlcàlë stood up her white gown flowing around her, and went to Glorfindel.
"Remember the song I was humming, grandfather, back in Rivendell?" Êlcàlë asked as Glorfindel nodded. "You wanted me to sing it for you, but I cannot do it alone, so Legolas will help me." With that said, Legolas got up as well and nodded to the band, who knew the music to the song, thanks to Êlcàlë. It hadn't taken Legolas long to memorize the words to the song, and as the music started, everyone quieted down and Êlcàlë started to sing first, followed by Legolas. The song was a familiar one in Êlcàlë's world, sung by Richard Marx and Donna Lewis. It was called At The Beginning.
Êlcàlë: We were strangers
Starting out on a journey
Never dreaming what we'd have to go through
Now here we are
And I'm suddenly standing
At the beginning with you
Legolas: No one told me I was going to find you
Unexpected, what you did to my heart
Both: When I lost hope
You were there to remind me
This is the start
And life is a road, and I want to keep going
Love is a river I want to keep flowing
Life is a road, now and forever
Wonderful journey
I'll be there when the world stops turning
I'll be there when the storm is through
At the end I want to be standing at the beginning
With you
Êlcàlë: We were strangers
On a crazy adventure
Legolas: Never dreaming how are dreams could come true
Both: Now here we stand
Unafraid of the future
At the beginning with you
And life is a road, and I want to keep going
Love is a river I want to keep flowing
Life is a road, now and forever
Wonderful journey
I'll be there when the world stops turning
I'll be there when the storm is through
At the end I want to be standing at the beginning
With you
I knew there was somebody somewhere
Like me alone in the dark
Now I know my dream will live on
I've been waiting so long
Nothing's going to tear us apart
And life is a road and I want to going
Love is a river I want to keep flowing
Life is a road, now and forever
Wonderful journey
I'll be there when the world stops turning
I'll be there when the storm is through
In the end I want to be standing at the beginning
With you
Life is a road, and I want to keep going
Love is a river I want to keep going on
Êlcàlë: Starting out on a journey
Both:
Life is a road and I want to keep going
Love is a river I want to keep flowing
In the end I want to be standing at the beginning
With you.
When they were finished, there was a silence as the music died down, but then the whole dining hall erupted into applause. The song was perfect for them, and their elven voices made the song sound even better. "Beautiful," Glorfindel said, giving Êlcàlë a peck on the cheek. "I'm glad waited to sing that song. It was truly perfect for today."
Later that night, when most of the people had gone home, Legolas and Êlcàlë took the chance to go out to the balcony. The moon was full and the stars were brighter than ever.
"My little wife," Legolas said, twirling Êlcàlë around. She had changed during the duration of the night into a deep red dress, the same one she had worn on her first day in Middle Earth. The fabric swirled around her. "Little you say, my husband?" Êlcàlë said, raising an eyebrow. "I'm not that much shorter than you." "Short enough to be perfect for me," Legolas said embracing her. "I have a surprise for you," Êlcàlë said, turning back to look at Legolas. "What is it?" Legolas said, noting how her eyes twinkled. He really didn't want this moment to end. "I'm with child," Êlcàlë said softly enough so only Legolas heard. Legolas looked shocked for a moment, but broke into a wide grin and let out a loud whoop as he picked Êlcàlë up off the ground by her waist and spun her in a circle. His cry of joy had attracted the attention of all their family and close friends, who came over now to see what had caused Legolas to be so happy. When they heard the news, everyone took their turns hugging the soon-to-be parents. "A child of our own," Legolas said as he embraced his wife again. "I wonder if it will be a little boy or a little girl?" he pondered out loud, placing a hand on Êlcàlë's stomach. "We will find out soon," Êlcàlë said with a laugh. "Now, what do you want to name our child?"
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
crazzymonkey: This is it! Thanks for your review!