CHAPTER TEN.
As dusk fell the next day, Mimi, dressed in her old elven travelling clothes, led her family to the alleyway by the Moonshine club. "You okay?" said Legolas tightening his grip on her hand as they waited for the moon to rise. "I'm really, really nervous," said Mimi, "We're going home." "Mama you look like one of Robin Hood's Merry Men dressed like that," said Orlando his normal clothes looking out of place against the travelling clothes of those from Middle Earth. "Believe me, I think it will be us getting funny looks when we get passed the gates," said Rose. "We'll get you some elven clothes made when we reach Gondor," said Arwen, "At least I feel a bit more normal now, human clothes are so heavy. I think I've shrunk a few inches since I arrived." The moon rose and illuminated the wall in front of them. The beautiful Ithildin pattern emerged. "If only I'd had the intelligence to realise this was here," said Mimi pressing her hand to the star on the door, "Mellon!" she said. The door swung open to reveal the beautiful green of the Shire. "Ready?" said Legolas. "As I'll ever be," said Mimi as he led her through the portal. The door closed behind the party. Mimi threw herself into the long grass, "Oh my God!" she cried, "Its all so clear now. We fell out of the gate and landed right here. Then the hobbits came out of the field and we fell down the hill. Oh Legolas, isn't the world just perfect? I'm home! I'm home! I'm home!" Legolas knelt beside her and hugged her tightly, "Its so good to have you back again." "Come along you two," said Aragorn, "I told Glirhuin we'd meet him in Hobbiton." "Who's Glirhuin?" asked Orlando. "My head servant, he stayed with our horses whilst we were with you," said Aragorn as he led them onto the road and towards the town.
Upon arriving in Hobbiton, they were welcomed warmly by those who knew Aragorn and Arwen from their visits to the Shire in the past. Legolas laughed at the twins' faces as they saw real hobbits for the first time in their lives. "They're so sweet," whispered Rose, "And look at their little houses." "Your naivete is quite refreshing Rosalia," said Arwen as Aragorn made inquiries into the whereabouts of Glirhuin. "He's staying at the local inn," said Aragorn taking the head of the group and leading them to a small tavern across the square. "Your Majesty," said the doorkeeper bowing low, "You have returned." "Indeed it would appear so Sir. Could I trouble you to bring my servant to me?" The little hobbit ran into the tavern. "Mimi if you don't wipe that insane grin off your face I'm sending you back to London!" said Aragorn turning to her. "Be quiet you miserable git!" she retorted, "Oh I feel like I'm nineteen again." "Wearing a tiny skirt, knee high boots and crying that you want to go home," said Aragorn. Footsteps behind him caught his attention. He turned and a short, greying man bowed low to him, "Your Majesty. Queen Arwen. Your Highness," he said taking Arwen and Legolas into his greeting. He looked up and stared at Mimi in disbelief. Mimi smiled, "Hello Glirhuin. I see you're still in service to the evil dictator then." "Your Highness? Princess Miranda? You...they did find you! It is the answer to the prayers of Gondor, behold our lost princess," he cried kneeling at her feet, "For years we Gondorians have prayed for your safe return and when the Lady Rose arrived we knew our prayers were answered." Mimi raised him to his feet, "Then to the people of Gondor I pledge my thanks for their faith. Perhaps it is your prayers that guided my daughter to the gates of the White City." Aragorn moved to Mimi's side, "May I present the Duchess' children? Rosalia Namarie you have already met but may I introduce Orlando Lorindol, Prince of Mirkwood." "Your Highnesses," said Glirhuin bowing to them both. The twins glanced nervously at eachother, unsure of how to react. Aragorn noticed their discomfort and spoke again, "Have our horses saddled Glirhuin. We leave at once for Gondor."
The party rested briefly in the tavern as Glirhuin saw to the horses. "I like being a Your Highness," said Orlando, "Finally someone recognizes the pedigree." "Pedigree?" laughed Mimi, "Not quite huney. You're a bit of a mix and match." "Huh! The rudeness!" said Orlando throwing a piece of bread at her. "Its true Orli," said Legolas, "You are technically only half elven." "Technically only half elven? Cheeky stink I say to that! I'm a fully elven, well bred prince of Mirkwood who shall inherit the whole of your kingdom when you snuff it Daddy Dear!" "There's not much to inherit," said Legolas, "I forswore Elbereth the day I lost your mother. I'm afraid there is no kingdom." "Well that's just downright rude!" "Besides, who is to say my Kingdom, if there was one, would be bequeathed to you? Rosalia is my first born," said Legolas. Mimi laughed as Orlando sat stunned, "Well that shut you up," she said, "You shall both inherit equally the only thing we can give, our love." "Oh please!" cried Aragorn, "Mushy parent stuff." "You're as bad with Boromir," retorted Legolas, "Hey Glirhuin, are the horses ready?" "Yes Your Grace," said the servant holding the door open for them. The twins watched in confusion as Mimi's eyes widened and she ran to a beautiful white horse. "Descaminord!" she cried patting his nose fondly, "But how? Surely he could not have survived." Legolas came to her side, "He is of elven breed Miranda, immortal, as my people are." Mimi smiled, "I should have guessed. Oh my sweet Descaminord how I have missed you," she said climbing onto his back. Aragorn laughed. "What's so funny?" "Its nothing Mimi honest," he said biting his lip, "I can't say with the children present." "Like they'll care," said Mimi, "They've grown up in London." "Well its just that...well, Descaminord seems to be the second old stallion you've missed feeling between your thighs!" Mimi blushed and covered her face with her hands. "Oh my God! Aragorn you're terrible!" cried Arwen laughing. "More than terrible," said Legolas climbing up behind Mimi, "I'm not old!" "But still the stallion?" said Aragorn. "You bet your ass I am!" "Dad, please!" cried Rose. Mimi took her hands from her face, "I do believe we've embarrassed our children my Angel," she said laughing at the twins' deep blushes. Arwen climbed onto Hasufel and offered Orlando her hand, "Come on Orlando, forget your blushes and up you get. I'm afraid I'm your companion for the next couple of weeks." "I can't get on a horse!" cried Orlando pulling back, "I'll fall off." "No you won't Orli. Arwen is a good rider, you will be safe," said Mimi looking totally at ease on Descaminord's back. Rosalia climbed onto Loci, in front of Aragorn, "Its easy Orlando and it's a long walk otherwise," she said, "Give it a try." Orlando let Arwen pull him up in front of her. "Just relax," she said creating a barrier either side of him with her arms, "I won't let you fall." "Let's go then," said Aragorn. "I thought it was, 'Let us hunt some orc!'" said Mimi quoting him. "Very well Mimi. Let us hunt some orc!"
The dappled light of the forest paths were unlike anything Orlando had ever seen but Rose seemed happy to be back in the beautiful surroundings where she had met Boromir. "Legolas you should sing for us," said Arwen, "We haven't heard you sing in eighteen years." Legolas opened his mouth to protest but Aragorn cut him off, "And you have no excuse now for Mimi has returned to you. Come, sing us one of your pixie songs to pass the time but please, not one of those dreary love ballads you so plagued us with on the way to Mordor. Let's have something with a bit of life in it." Mimi giggled as Legolas whispered something to her. "What?" said Aragorn. "Dance!...Boogie wonderland!" sang Legolas. "Anything but that!" cried Aragorn, "You used to drive me mad constantly humming that around Rivendell. Sing of...I don't know...just sing something." "Alright. I shall sing of Elbereth Gilthoniel if it pleases you;
"Snow-white! Snow-white! Oh Lady clear,
O Queen beyond the Western seas.
O light to us that wander here,
Amid the world of woven trees.
"Gilthoniel! O Elbereth!
Clear are thy eyes and bright thy breath.
Snow-white! Snow-white we sing to thee,
In a far land beyond the sea.
"O stars that..."
Legolas trailed off, staring into the trees beside them. "Why did you stop Mirky?" asked Aragorn. "Miranda take the reins," he said passing them to her. He took his bow from his back and loaded it. "Whoa Descaminord," said Mimi, "What is it Legolas?" He fired and there came a piercing scream, followed by the sickening slump of a body from the brush. He climbed of Descaminord and motioned for Aragorn to follow him. "Rose climb onto Descaminord," said Aragorn moving to Mimi's side and letting Rose across. Mimi pulled her dagger from her belt as Arwen drew her sword. "Glirhuin, with us," said Aragorn. The servant climbed from his horse and came to Aragorn's side. "Be ready to go Mellamin," said Legolas to Mimi, "On my call. Don't look back." Mimi nodded, "Elbereth Gilthoniel be with you." "What's going on Mama?" "Hush Orlando," said Mimi as Legolas, Aragorn and Glirhuin ventured into the trees. She heard the sound of Legolas' bow and Aragorn's familiar war cry. The brush rustled and Mimi and Arwen came on guard. Glirhuin was first out into the open, "Ride!" he shouted vaulting onto Loci's back. Kicking Descaminord into a gallop, Mimi led the party further down the road. She glanced back, relieved to see Aragorn and Legolas close behind on Arod. They kept their speed for many minutes until finally Aragorn waved them to a halt, "Stop. We should be safe now." "What happened?" said Arwen as Aragorn climbed down from the horse and threw himself down on his back on the road, "Orcs," he said. "Worse," said Legolas, "Uruk-hai! They were too tall to be orcs." Mimi's eyes were wild with fear, "Uruk-hai? But how? The were destroyed when Frodo cast the Ring to Mount Doom." "I have no answers," said Legolas climbing down from Arod and coming to her side, "All I know is that the threat is still near. We should not linger." Rose's face paled as she saw blood on his hands. "What's the matter Rose?" said Mimi noticing her grey complexion. "You're covered in blood Papa," she said swallowing back the bile that was rising in her throat. Legolas wiped his hands clean on his cape, "Don't worry Rose, its their's not mine. Its gonna take more than a couple of sniveling Yrch hybrids to make me bleed." Rose shrank back in shock, "How can you talk like that when you've just murdered someone?" "Its hardly murder Rose. Orcs are dangerous, cold-hearted killers. To leave them wandering around, especially in the Shire, would be to cause more harm than good," said Mimi. "How can you defend him? He...I...its still murder." Legolas started to speak but Mimi shook her head, "See to Orlando Angel, I'll talk to Rose." Legolas went to Orlando's side, "Are you okay?" "I thought you said this world was safe?" said Orlando, "I don't call rampant orcs safe!" "The world was safe before we left," said Legolas. "I amar prestar aen Legolas, han mathon ne wilith," said Arwen. "I know cousin I feel it also. A shadow has returned to Middle Earth. Perhaps one of us should ride on at pace to Gondor. Tell Boromir what is happening," said Legolas. "I'll go," said Aragorn. "No Aragorn, rochon ellint im," retorted Arwen. "Arwen it is too dangerous even with your speed. I cannot let you go." "The river Loudwater is not far off!" she protested, "Ae athradon I hir, tur gwaith nin beriath min." "What did she just say?" said Orlando as Arwen spoke too quickly for him to translate. "She said if she can get across the river she will be protected by elven land. Enedwaith was watched over by the elves for many moons," said Legolas. "But the elves have left Arwen. The lands are no longer protected," said Aragorn. "I'll go Your Majesty," said Glirhuin, "I'm armed. Prince Boromir will receive your message." "Thank you my friend," said Aragorn, "May the spirit of Elbereth Gilthoniel guide you." Glirhuin vaulted onto Arod and was soon a speck in the distance. "We should ride on," said Arwen, "There is a village not far off where we can rest."
CHAPTER ELEVEN.
Night came and they all retired to bed in the village tavern. Orlando woke while the others slept, only to see his father sitting on the window seat with his bow in his hand, staring out over the village. He was about to speak when he heard Mimi get up from the bed next to him. The silver of the moon gave her a beautiful silhouette in the window as she sat opposite her husband. "Can't you sleep my love?" she asked taking his hand. "I feel uneasy," said Legolas, "I could not sleep with the children here, they need protection." "Angel you should sleep, we need you alert when the real danger is around. We are safe here tonight. Please darling, come back to bed." Legolas shook his head, "I will not rest, not until I shake the shadow from my mind. Something evil has returned to this world, I can sense it." Mimi reached up and wrapped several delicate strands of his hair around her fingertips, "Then I'll sit up with you," she said moving closer to him. "You don't have to." "I want to. I must be a bad omen, there always seems to be a disaster when I come to Middle Earth." Legolas returned her gentle touch and guided her face to his, "You could never be a bad omen Mellamin," he said kissing her. Emotion taking over he leant her back slowly, his hand creeping up her bare leg under her thin nightdress. Mimi pulled back, her breathing ragged, "Legolas we shouldn't. Our children are in the room," she said. "They're asleep," said Legolas pressing his lips to her shoulder. Mimi pushed him away gently, "Laiqalasse Greenleaf control yourself." "But you look gorgeous!" said Legolas laughing as she turned and lay back against him, pinning his hands to his sides. "You spoil all my fun," he said setting down his bow, "I wish we were alone." "I'll see that we get a private room tomorrow if its possible. You looked so sexy today after that fight, you always did after every battle on the quest. It must be the power thing." Legolas laughed, "You have the strangest notions at times my love. Sexy is not a term I'd apply to dried orcs blood." Mimi released his hands, "You know that's not what I mean," she said as his arms went around her waist. "Miranda?" "Hmm?" "Do you remember the night we first slept together?" "You mean the night we first made love? Of course I do! It was our wedding night in Lothlorien. Why? Have you forgotten?" "How could I forget a thing like that?" said Legolas, "Its just..." "Just what?" "It was so funny now I think about it, we didn't have a clue what we were doing," said Legolas tracing the line of moonlight on her shoulder with a fingertip. "It didn't take us long to work it out though," giggled Mimi, "And then we were unstoppable! That night was so magical. We should go back to Lothlorien maybe even..." "Miranda Greenleaf, now who needs to control herself? Not that I'd say no though, the danger would be fun." "Oh no way am I getting caught again!" cried Mimi, "Do you remember Gimli's face that night after the battle of Helms Deep?" Legolas laughed, "Poor thing, he nearly had a heart attack. It was your fault he found us in such a compromising position, you wouldn't keep quiet." "Well half the things you did that night would be illegal in Britain." "I didn't hear you complaining," said Legolas running a string of kisses up her neck. "I didn't have much of a choice," said Mimi. "Keep moaning and I'll have to do it again my darling!" said Legolas pulling her round to face him. "Behave yourself," hissed Mimi, "Legolas you're encouragable!" His eyes softened and he kissed her gently, "I've missed you Miranda." "I've missed you too Angel," said Mimi wrapping her arms around his waist and laying against his chest. They were silent for a long while and Orlando thought his mother had fallen asleep, until she spoke again, "Legolas?" "Yes darling?" "Was there ever anyone else? Another woman when I left?" Legolas closed his eyes and buried his face in her hair, "Never. I never even looked at anyone else. I just got miserable and reclusive when you left. I barely left the palace interior. You?" "Only two beautiful, blond elves. They were my life. They were all I needed because even though you weren't beside me, you were always in my heart," said Mimi. "Do you think Rose will ever forgive me? She hasn't said two words to me since the orc attack," said Legolas turning his face to the window. "She will learn Angel. I tried to explain much to her on the way here but she is still confused. Her world is different to our's. She has always been protected, she's never known real evil. It is hard for her to see you as a warrior. Give her time." "I hope time is all it takes," said Legolas, "Miran..." He stopped abruptly, sending Mimi tumbling off the ledge as he got to his feet. "Ai! Legolas that hurt!" she hissed. He pulled her to her feet and covered her mouth with her hand, "Hush." He pointed into the courtyard below. Mimi was glad of his gag as she tried to scream. She pulled his hand away, "Its probably nothing," she said her voice cracking with fear, "Just a rider in a black cape." A piercing screech echoed from the courtyard. Legolas picked up his bow, "Wake the children," he said shoving her to where Orlando and Rose slept. "Orli, Rose. Wake up darlings," said Mimi shaking them gently. Orlando sat up instantly, having not been asleep, "Mama?" "Get dressed quickly," she said pulling on her blue riding trousers. Legolas was waking Aragorn and Arwen. "What the fuck is it Mirky?" hissed Aragorn, "Its still the middle of the night." "Will you just shut your mouth and get up. There's a Ringwraith outside," said Legolas throwing Aragorn his clothes. "Ringwraith? How much did you have to drink earlier? Middle Earth to Legolas, all Ringwraiths were destroyed with the Ash Nazg!" said Aragorn pulling on his clothes. Another screech came from below the window. "Reality to Aragorn! How do you explain that?" Aragorn came to the window, "Shit! Okay Greenleaf I believe you. But why is there only one? Where are the other eight?" Orlando gasped as he could have sworn he saw a flame leap up in his Father's eyes, "Exactly," he said, "Arwen, Miranda get the children out of here, get to the horses, we'll follow." Legolas pivoted as he heard Mimi pull her daggers from their sheaths. "I'm not running from this fight," she said running her finger along the glittering blade. Orlando gripped her arm tightly, "Mama if I'm not mistaken those Nazgul creeps are the bad guys," he said. "And I'm a warrior of the Fellowship. I don't run from a fight," said Mimi, an intensity Orlando had never seen before lighting her evergreen eyes. "Go with your aunt, do as she says." "But Mama..." "No buts Rosalia. Look huney, I know you don't understand this world but my books spoke true, good must always face evil and death is not a thing to be afraid of," said Mimi kissing her forehead. "Death?" cried Rose, "Mama, no!" "Go Rosalia." "Come child," said Arwen. Orlando and Rose threw their bag onto their shoulders and left the moonlit room. "Take them to the horses Arwen," said Aragorn, "Leave Descaminord for us. He is he fleetest of them and we may be in need of a fast escape. Are you sure you want to do this Mimi?" Mimi nodded, "I've been baying for Nazgul blood for years," she said pulling her hair back into a band. "Okay. We disband here. Arwen take the back stairs and be on your guard," said Aragorn. "Wait," said Legolas pulling his daggers from behind his back and offering them to Orlando and Rose, "Take these." Orlando took one, the light elven metal making little weight in his hand but Rose resisted. "I...I can't Papa," she stuttered. "Please Namarie miren, take it. Make me proud," said Legolas kissing her cheek. Rose took the dagger tentatively, "Okay Papa." The group split and Mimi, Aragorn and Legolas headed for the street. They stopped in the doorway, hidden by shadow. "How many are there Legolas?" whispered Aragorn. "I count seven but its hard to be sure, they mingle to easily with the night," said Legolas. "If there are only seven then where are the other two?" said Aragorn. Miranda and Legolas exchanged frantic glances. "Oh my God the children!" said Mimi, "What do we do Legolas?" "Firstly we kick these bastards," said Aragorn, "Arwen is armed, she won't let anyone harm the twins." "So are we going in with stealth or the old Fellowship war cry?" said Legolas loading his bow. Aragorn drew his sword, a sly glance passing over his handsome features, "The fun way," he said, "Elendil!"
Rose tensed as she heard two male and one distinctly female war cries followed by the piercing screech of the Ringwraiths. Arwen looked up from where she stood, attaching the final bags to Hasufel's saddle, "They have confronted them," she said, "Hurry children, Rose can you ride alone?" "I can try," said Rose finally glad of the weapon she carried. "Orlando hurry with Descaminord and Loci," called Arwen in a hushed voice. Before Orlando could emerge from the stables both Rose and Arwen were grabbed from behind, morgoth blades held fast to their throats.
Legolas' aim was still as perfect as in the days of the Fellowship as he tried to bring down the Ringwraiths that they battled. Running close behind him, Mimi pulled an arrow from his quiver and shoved the point into a hay bail, pulling free a clump of the coarse, dried grass. Warding off an attack with her free daggers, she held the arrowhead in the fire of a nearby light. The hay caught alight. Using the arrow as a spear, she threw it into the chest of the nearest Nazgul. The creature caught fire and fled screaming. "Very good Mimi!" said Aragorn pushing over a table to stop two advancing wraiths. "I learnt from the masters," said Mimi jumping onto the table and then flipping over their heads to deliver two devastating blows to their backs. Aragorn fought from the front, allowing them no escape. Two arrows flew swiftly through the air and caught the wraiths beneath their dark hoods. They fled. "Three on three," said Aragorn as Legolas joined him and Mimi and they turned to face the final wraiths. "This is all too easy," said Legolas reloading his bow.
"Where is the elf prince?" hissed the wraith as he pressed his dagger closer to Arwen's throat. "I don't know," said Arwen, "Why don't you go and find him yourself? You have no quarrel with us." "Our quarrel is with who we please She-elf!" Arwen heard Rose's stifled cries from the corner as the second wraith held her fast. "Let her go, she's just a child," cried Arwen. "A child of the Fellowship and the elf-prince. A vital tool," said the second wraith. "What do you want from us?" said Arwen. "We want nothing from you Queen of Gondor. Our true quarry is held by the traitor of Mirkwood, you are merely in the way." "What do you want front Legolas? He carries nothing of value." "He carries Narya."
"Hurry Aragorn. I have a terrible feeling that something has happened to Arwen and the twins," said Legolas as the final wraith fled the street. Mimi led them down the alley to the tavern's interior courtyard. As they rounded the corner they saw the Ringwraiths with their two elven prisoners. "Stop there!" cried Arwen's captor, "Or they die." The three came to a halt. "Throw down your weapons," said the wraith. They hesitated. He pulled Arwen's head back by her hair, exposing her delicate neck to the blade he carried, "Do it." Reluctantly Mimi cast away her daggers, Aragorn his sword and Legolas his bow. The wraith released Arwen and pushed her over to the group, leaving only Rose in obvious danger. "What do you want?" said Legolas. "Give us Narya Prince of Mirkwood," said Rose's captor, "And the girl goes free." "Don't give it to him Papa!" cried Rose but she was silenced as the wraith tightened his grip on her hair. Legolas' eyes were drawn to a barely perceptible movement behind the wraith. Orlando moved softly behind, his dagger poised to strike the creature down. He looked over to Legolas and placed a finger to his lips. Then he mimed taking something from around his neck and then crying. Legolas read his plan perfectly. "Why do you stall?" said the second wraith, "Do you dare toy with your daughter's life?" "No," said Legolas taking the chain from around his neck and taking a few steps towards Rose's captor. He looked as if he was about to hand it over but then fell to his knees and for a second nearly convinced even Mimi that he was truly crying. "Please!" he cried his voice filled with fake emotion as his hand slid secretly onto the bow beside him, "Do not harm my daughter. I'll do anything. I pledge my service to Sauron himself, just don't hurt her." Both wraiths, confused and bewildered by such an outburst by a famously brave warrior, dropped their guard slightly. Seeing the opportunity, Legolas cried out, "Now Orlando!" Before the wraith could react to the situation, Orlando jumped onto Rose's captor's back and stabbed his dagger deep into his neck as Rose tumbled away from danger. Legolas, faster than light, pulled the bow from beneath his legs, flipped onto his feet And shot directly into the centre of the second wraith. Mimi ran into the stable and brought out the other two horses, collecting up her daggers as she went. Leaping onto Descaminord's back, she rode passed Arwen who threw her her sword. "Orlando get clear!" she cried advancing on the wraith Orlando was struggling with. Orlando leapt free as Mimi ran the blade deep into the Nazgul's midsection. It fled screaming, closely followed by the second as it received a merciless strike from Aragorn. Mimi threw the sword back to Arwen and pulled Orlando in front of her. Legolas now had Rose on her feet but she was weak from shock. Lifting her, he carried her to Loci and placed her on his back, climbing up behind her, "Make for the river," he cried as Aragorn and Arwen took to Hasufel.
Galloping from the town, it was not long before they became aware of the Nine following behind. "I'm sorry I doubted you Papa," cried Rose fearing for her life as Loci leapt high over a fallen tree. "Pay it no mind," said Legolas, "Just hold on tight." The screeches of the Ringwraiths nearly deafened them as they gained ground. "Rose take the reins," said Legolas pulling his bow from his back and taking aim. "Legolas, throw it here!" cried Mimi handing Descaminord's reins to Orlando, "I have a clearer shot." Legolas threw his bow followed by an arrow over to Mimi. She pivoted to face the Nazgul, aimed and fired, sending a wraith screaming to the floor. "Angel!" The bow landed easily back in Legolas' hand. "The river is not far off," called Arwen over her shoulder at them. "Hold on tight Orli," said Mimi taking back the reins, "Noro lim Descaminord." They crossed the river and turned on the opposite bank. The wraiths hesitated on the other side. "This is getting all too familiar," said Arwen climbing down. Legolas came beside her and they moved to the water's edge. "Papa? What are you doing?" cried Rose, as he and Arwen stood unarmed. "Hush huney, they know what they're doing," said Mimi. "The power of Narya will never be given over to darkness," called Legolas, "Not while I breathe." "Then you shall die," cried one of the Nazgul as they rode into the river. Legolas took Arwen's hand, his face emotionless and cold. They spoke in an eerily perfect unison, "Nin o Chithaeglir, lasto beth daer: Rimmo nin Bruinen in Ulaer." The waters of the Loudwater rose high, flowing hard against the wraiths and sweeping them out of sight. Mimi came off Descaminord and ran to Legolas, hugging him tightly. "Are you okay?" he asked hugging her. "I'm fine. You?" "I'll be...Ai-ie!" Mimi pulled her hand away from his arm, it was covered with blood, "Legolas, you're hurt!" she cried. "Its not bad, just a scratch. It'll..." Legolas' eyes clouded and he collapsed into her arms. Mimi lay him down, resting his head on her knees, "Its okay Angel," she said as she felt him shudder, "Arwen!" Arwen came to their side and knelt down, "Don't worry, Father taught me how to heal this. Aragorn help me find what I need to treat him," she said brushing Legolas' brow, "Hold on Mirky." "I'm going nowhere," said Legolas gripping tightly onto Mimi's hand. Aragorn and Arwen ran into the dense under brush. Rose came to her mother's side, "What's wrong?" "Morgoth poisoning. Even a scratch like this can be deadly if it isn't treated quickly enough, especially to an elf," said Mimi laying her hand on Legolas' forehead. She pulled a piece of perfect white linen from her pocket, "Oh baby you're burning up. Orlando soak this in the river water for me, I need to cool this fever." Orlando obeyed without a word. Mimi reached down and unfastened Legolas' doublet. She lifted him gently and slipped it off him, careful not to aggravate his bleeding arm. He flinched, "That's the first time I've not enjoyed you undressing me," he said managing a weak laugh as he gripped her hand tighter, "Tell me Mellamin, why, whenever we go anywhere in Middle Earth together does one of us always end up bleeding?" Mimi giggled, "I don't know Angel, I really don't know." "Mama?" said Orlando handing her the soaked linen. "Thank you huney," said Mimi folding it and lying it on Legolas' brow. "Don't look so pale," said Legolas taking in his children's troubled expressions, "I've been in worse scrapes than this. You're aunt won't be long and everything will be fine." He flinched, succeeding only in doubling the anxiety on the twins' faces. "Is there anything I can do Legolas?" said Mimi as his grip again tightened on her hand. "A bit of pain relief would be welcome," said Legolas closing his eyes against the fire in his arm. "I have nothing with me," said Mimi. "Then kiss me!" said Legolas, "Anything to take my mind off it." Mimi leant down and kissed him. His lips were shaky and cold against her's. He pulled back as the fire refused to quell, "It beats even your magic sweet Miranda," he said as Orlando came to his other side. "Hey you," said Legolas, "Nice work back at the tavern. We could have used you against Sauron, that was some quick thinking." "I couldn't let those creeps hurt Rose or take your ring. What is this Narya business? I thought it was only your wedding ring you wore on that chain." "Yeah Papa, why all the fuss over that?" said Rose. Legolas laughed, "I take it you haven't told them my little secret then," he said looking up at Mimi. She shook her head, "It was not my secret to tell Angel," she said. "But all my secrets are your's darling for we are one," he said entwining their fingers, "As are the two halves of Narya. Alone my ring is simply a wedding band but combined with your Mama's it becomes Narya, the Ring of Fire. It was the third elven ring of power given to the elves of Greenwood the Great in the first age of the Sun." "But why would those Nazguls want it? I thought elf rings were the good ones," said Rose. "The rings themselves are not good or evil with the exception of the Ash Nazg. It is the bearer who is good or evil. Narya, if combined with its sisters, would be as powerful as Sauron's ring, maybe even more so," said Legolas. "What are its sisters?" asked Orlando. "Nenya and Vilya, the Ring of Water and Adamant, and Sapphire and Air. They are held by the Lady Galadriel and Lord Elrond. They...Fuck! Miranda!" cried Legolas. "What is it Angel?" said Mimi. "Get Arwen to hurry. I can't take much more of this." Mimi gripped his hand tightly, "Don't you start talking that way Legolas Greenleaf," she said, "I know how strong you are. Fight it back." "I..." "Fight it Papa!" said Rose. "You go any paler and you'll match your shirt," said Orlando as Legolas got whiter and whiter. "Hey less of the cheek from you," said Legolas managing a pained smile, "God what are they doing in their? Growing the damn plants. Uck I hate Ringwraiths!" Without warning, Legolas' eyes clouded and he let out a piercing shriek. "No Legolas!" cried Mimi, "Fight it! Arwen hurry, I'm losing him." Aragorn ran from the brush and treated Legolas' arm with a plant he'd found, "Talk to him Mimi, Arwen won't be long." "Angel, hear me darling, don't leave us, come back to the light," said Mimi through her tears, "Tollo del nen galot Legolas. Tollo del nen galot." Arwen ran in, "Sit him up. Aragorn get the children away, I don't want them to see this." Aragorn grabbed the children's hands and pulled them away. "Papa!" "Don't Rosalia," said Aragorn holding her fast, "Let Arwen treat him." Their father's cried made both the twins jumped. They looked on in horror as Mimi pulled her dagger from her belt and handed it to Arwen. Rose turned her face away as blood from Legolas' arm splattered her mother's face and clothes. "What are they doing to him?" cried Orlando. "Saving him from the shadow world," said Aragorn. "But they're hurting him. He's practically screaming. How can they do that to him?" "Its for his own good. If they don't treat him and get rid of the poison he'll soon become a wraith himself." Arwen's voice caught their attention, "I'aredhelrim quene hodo Laiqalasse lasto beth nin tollo del nen galot, tollo del nen galot...Anything?" Mimi's voice cracked with emotion, "Nothing. We were too late." "I'm not giving up. Legolas! Lasto beth nin Legolas!" "Angel, tollo del nen galot, tollo del nen nin." Legolas took in a sudden breath and gripped her hand. "Thank God! We've got him," said Arwen treating his arm and bandaging it. "Miranda...Arwen...Ai...Ulaer...Miran...Ah," he lapsed in and out of elvish, crying in pain, still not conscious of his surroundings. Arwen lay a hand on his forehead and muttered something in elvish. His cries stopped and his breathing fell into the deep rhythms of sleep. "He'll be fine now," said Arwen as Mimi wiped his blood from her face with her sleeve and then buried her face in his hair, crying uncontrollably, "Oh God I thought I'd lost him. My poor Legolas, my poor Angel." "He'll be out for a few hours," said Arwen fetching a blanket from Hasufel's saddlebag and handing it to Mimi. She wrapped the blanket around him and lifted him into her arms, "I'll make sure he stays warm," she said kissing his forehead, "My poor little prince. Sleep, sleep my Angel." "The famous Tolkien TLC, hey Mimi?" said Aragorn. "Its all he needs," said Mimi looking up at her children, "Its okay my darlings, Papa's going to be fine now." "Why doesn't he wake up?" said Rose. "The poison hurt him deeply. He's just getting his strength back. He won't sleep for too long. In a sense he's just under gone a major operation. You should both try and rest, we've had quite a drama today and its barely even dawn." "Will it be like that all the way to Gondor?" said Orlando. "Let's hope not hey," said Mimi giving them a reassuring smile.
Several hours passed. Orlando and Rose sat away from the group by the shoreline, watching their mother as she sat with Arwen and Aragorn, Legolas still asleep like a child in her arms. "I've never seen her this way before," said Rose, "She's so...so...intense about everything. It seems like everything's become life or death, the attack, the wraiths, Papa. Its like she's not Mama anymore." "I know what you mean," said Orlando, "Before the wraiths came I was awake and I heard them talking and..." "They weren't!" giggled Rose. "Sshh! They weren't going quite that far but they were talking about it. It sounds like they were complete devils when they were younger and they were all over eachother. He couldn't keep his hands off her. I've never thought about Mama being that way before. She was so...I don't know." "Sexual?" said Rose laughing at her brother's blushes, "What's the problem with that, or are you of the opinion that they did it once so we could be conceived and never touched eachother again?" "Don't be stupid Rose! Its just, they're our parents." "They're also lovers and they were that long before we came along. Orlando you just have to accept that Mama has a new man in her life now." Mimi's voice caught their attention, "Hello sleepy head," she said as Legolas stirred, "How are you feeling?" "Terrible. How long have I slept for?" said Legolas as Mimi helped him to sit up. She hugged him tightly, crying into his shoulder, "Oh Legolas don't ever scare me like that again. I thought I'd lost you," she sobbed. Legolas hugged her back, "Hey now, no crying. I'm okay, I'm fine now. I could hear your voice even though I couldn't tell you, it was your call that pulled me back Mellamin," he said kissing her, "Where are the children?" "We're here Papa," said Rose walking over and sitting beside him, "You look a lot better." "I wish I felt it. My head feels like I have an army of cave trolls marching through it," said Legolas laying his head on Mimi's shoulder. She pulled the tie from his hair and gently ran her fingers through it, "Better?" she asked as the pain faded from Legolas' face. "Much. I have a feeling you'll be in charge of Descaminord for the next few days Mellamin. I haven't felt this rough since the quest," he said closing his eyes, "Bang goes our plans for this evening." Mimi giggled, "We'll soon be in Gondor Angel." "We should get moving," said Aragorn lifting Legolas up like a child, "Up you come little Greenleaf." "Hey! I'm not a kid you know?" said Legolas as Aragorn sat him on Descaminord's back. Mimi climbed up behind him, "Stop moaning or we'll leave you behind," she said taking Descaminord's reins as Arwen and Aragorn each took one of the twins. "Okay, I'll behave," said Legolas as the party resumed their travels to Gondor.
CHAPTER TWELVE.
They travelled onwards to Gondor and the journey was uneventful. Legolas got stronger by the day and was soon back to his normal self. As they day began to wane, Legolas tapped Orlando's shoulder and pointed into the distance, pulling Loci to a pause, "Look. There's Gondor." Orlando's eyes widened as the sun sent a beautiful red glow over the city, "Oh my God! Its wonderful. I'd always imagined it but never on this scale," he said. He turned as he heard Mimi gasp. A smile spread across her face, "Rose huney," she said, "You might want to hold on tight." Before Rose could question her, Mimi kicked Descaminord so he reared up and then flew into a gallop as she cried out, "Ai-ie!" "Whoa! Energy rush," said Orlando. "Elendil!" cried Aragorn as he and Arwen followed Mimi in her charge to the city. "Your turn Papa. What's the Legolas war cry?" "Elbereth Gilthoniel!" cried Legolas as Loci rose up and followed the others.
As they came upon the palace Orlando's amazement reached a new level, "You live here?" he said turning to Legolas. "Uh-huh. Welcome to Minas Tirith, your home, Prince Lorindol." Orlando smiled, "Prince Lorindol? I like the sound of that." Legolas got off Loci and helped Orlando down as servants collected the horses and led them to their stables. In one swift movement, Mimi was between them, her arms draped over their shoulders, "I forgot how beautiful this place was," she said hugging them both. Rose slipped her arms around Legolas' waist and lay her head on his shoulder, "Last time I was here we didn't know eachother Papa," she said as all four of them walked up the marble staircase to the great doors. "But now we are a family, all of us," said Legolas, "And I wouldn't have it any other way." Two guards opened the doors and they followed Aragorn and Arwen inside. The palace was silent. "Where is everyone?" said Mimi in confusion, "This place used to be buzzing." "I don't know," said Aragorn warily scanning the corridor, "Boromir would have been informed of our arrival. He should have come to meet us." "Maybe he's in the throne room," said Legolas as they turned a corner into more darkness. Aragorn pushed the heavy oak doors pen into the room. It was pitch black. "Stay close children," said Legolas as they entered. "No problem Papa," said Rose her voice a hushed whisper. "Boromir?" called Aragorn in the darkness, "Elrond?" "Miranda Jane Greenleaf, high Princess of Mirkwood, Duchess of Gondor and Lady of Rivendell, why did you deprive us of your sweet company for so long?" came Elrond's voice from the darkness. Suddenly there was a great explosion and the room filled with light. Mimi gasped as she saw all her friends and many others standing under a huge welcome home sign, strewn from one balcony to the other, "Oh my God!" she said as she started to cry. Legolas kissed her cheek softly, "Welcome home Miranda." "You knew about this?" Legolas nodded, "We couldn't have you come home without a party could we?" Before she could say anymore she was surrounded by her friends in a fiesta of welcome and soon she could not fathom who she'd spoken to and who she hadn't. So many friends, older, changed but the same. Oddly familiar yet frighteningly foreign. She regarded each of her friends in turn. Elrond hadn't aged as his immortality still held true and he greeted Mimi so warmly, calling her his lost daughter. The hobbits amazed her, Frodo's intense blue eyes still flared with his passion for adventure, Merry was as mischievous as ever and Sam, to Mimi's utter amazement, had become the mayor of Hobbiton. Pippin was still human and dressed very finely, he too had had a successful career as an author by documenting, this time truly, they're story. Finally came Roxie. She'd barely changed, her wild curls were slightly longer than Mimi remembered but still as beautiful and her body betrayed no signs of her large brood. Her face was radiant and happy, even more so with her joy at seeing Mimi again. "Oh Mimi you look wonderful," said Roxie holding her hands tightly. "So do you. Oh Roxie I've missed you so much huney. There's so much we have to catch up on, so many things to tell," said Mimi. "So many people to meet," said Roxie her eyes falling on the twins, who stood a slight distance away, seemingly overwhelmed by everyone in the room. Mimi smiled, "Yes it seems many of us have new companions. Come here my darlings." Orlando and Rose walked over shyly. "Meet my babies, Orlando Lorindol and Rosalia Namarie. Kids meet your aunt Roxie." "Oh Mimi they're wonderful," said Roxie kissing them both, "And look at you, you're just the image of your father. I think we'll have to watch the girls around you little Orlando." Orlando laughed and blushed, "I'm afraid I don't bat for that team." Roxie suppressed a giggle, "Batty boy hey? Don't tell me Mimi, you brought him up in the theatre." Mimi nodded, "They both followed in my footsteps. I teach at Street Car now." "Wow you've gone up in the world. Oh Mimi I've missed you," cried Roxie hugging her again.
Once the reunions and introductions were through, the party retired to their rooms to change for dinner. Mimi twirled in front of the mirror in her long, shimmering white dress. Legolas' reflection appeared behind her's, the intricate embroidery of his shirt complimenting her dress perfectly. He brushed her hair back and gently kissed the base of her neck, losing himself in the familiar scent of the elven perfume she wore, "You look beautiful darling," he said staring into the mirror. Mimi reached up and stroked his cheek with her fingertips. She smiled, her eyes filling with tears, "Oh Legolas I can't believe I'm finally home. Everything is so perfect again," She turned to him, "I'm back where I belong." "Indeed you are Mellamin," said Legolas holding her tightly, "For you are back in my arms." Mimi laughed as he kissed her, "Oh you are hopeless at times Angel." "Hey I thought you liked romance," he said leading her out onto the balcony. They stared out over the palace gardens. Mimi lay her head on Legolas' shoulder as the soft moonlight fell over the balcony. Blown along by the breeze, a tiny flower nymph lighted on the ledge. It danced away, blissfully unaware of its audience. As it took flight again, Legolas lifted Mimi's hand up, holding it very still. The nymph landed on her fingers, its delicate wings pausing for a moment. Then it was gone, flying out into the distance.
"Mama! Dad!" came a cry from below them. Legolas and Mimi leant over the ledge to see Orlando and Rose in the gardens, dressed in clothes similar to their parents. "Stay there, we'll come and meet you," called Legolas waving to them. "They look so grand," said Mimi as they returned inside and left the room. "Of course they do," said Legolas, "They're royalty now." "Prince Lorindol and Princess Namarie, I never thought I'd be calling them that," said Mimi, "Although I think they shall always be Orli and Rose to us, in private at least." "Just as I know you'll forever insist on calling me Angel," said Legolas taking her hand. "You love it and don't pretend you don't," said Mimi as they entered the gardens. "Well if the name fits..." They soon met the twins. "Mama, Papa look," said Rose twirling in front of them, "Isn't this dress just divine? I feel like a fairytale princess." Legolas kissed her forehead, "You are a fairytale princess Rose, Princess Namarie of Mirkwood." "Shouldn't it be Namarie Greenleaf?" "Not officially. Greenleaf is the human translation of Legolas and it just became my surname to the mortals I knew." "Boring!" said Orlando, "I thought we'd get some funky elvish surname that we got to sign on loads of important documents." "Well Orli you're in luck," said Legolas, "Because you do have an elven surname, Naryalin." "Naryalin? Has that got something to do with the ring?" said Rose. "Uh-huh. Ever since I was a child I've had Naryalin after my title." "Which is...?" said Orlando. Legolas blushed, "Please don't make me say it," he pleaded, "Its so pompous and stupid, I hate it." "Come on Angel, tell the children your name," teased Mimi, "Because if you don't then I will." "Alright, but no laughing. High Prince Laiqalasse Thranduil Naryalin of Mirkwood." The twins collapsed into giggles. "Hey you promised you wouldn't laughed!" "Sorry Dad, it just so doesn't suit you," said Orlando, "So why do I get lumbered with Naryalin?" "Because you are my successor to Narya, its traditional. Sorry Rose but the line of Narya is to the first male child of the bearer." "Hey no problem, I'm just glad I don't get a stupid surname. All these names and titles are so confusing, what are we meant to call you two now?" said Rose as they wandered deeper into the gardens. "Mother and Father in public, its palace etiquette I'm afraid," said Mimi, "But when we're alone or with close friends, Mama and Papa is fine and to us privately, you'll still be Orli and Rose, unless you choose to take your elven names." "I can see this taking a bit of getting used to," said Rose, "So do we have to be all regal now? I don't know how." "We shall teach you, it is in your blood so you shall pick it up quickly and you both already speak Sindarin very well," said Legolas smiling as the twins eyes lighted at the sight of a beautiful, marble summerhouse, surrounded by a crystal blue pond. Legolas led them across the bridge and into the open house. Mimi sat down next to him on a lavishly decorated swing seat, her eyes distant as many old memories of the place came back to her. The children glanced round in amazement at the delicate decorations. "Do you like it?" said Mimi. "Its wonderful. Everything is so beautiful here, I can't see me ever wanting to live anywhere else ever again!" said Orlando. "You mean it?" said Legolas. "Yes, its so wonderful here Papa and I've never seen Mama looking so happy." Mimi smiled, "That's because I've not been this happy in many years. I couldn't wish for more than what I have now." They all became aware of a figure in the doorway. Legolas got to his feet, "Hello Boromir. Have you been sent to find us?" "Father said to give you a kick in the right direction," said Boromir with a smile, "Dinner is in fifteen minutes so he says you and aunt Miranda aren't allowed to go back to your room, whatever that may mean uncle Mirky!" "Don't get cheeky young man. You're still not too old to be sent to your room," said Legolas grabbing him by his ear playfully. "Legolas!" hissed Boromir, "Stop being embarrassing." "So my dear nephew can be cheeky to me but I can't embarrass him back? I can't see that happening. What have you got to be embarrassed for anyway, my wife and son may be strangers as yet but you know Rose well enough." Boromir blushed, "Actually I was wondering if both my new cousins would like to take a brief tour with me." Rose was by his side in a flash, "Oh yes please, that would be lovely." Legolas suppressed a laugh as he watched Boromir blush even deeper. "Lorindol?" asked Boromir. Mimi secretly took Orlando's hand, gently holding him back. "I'll pass," said Orlando, "I want to spend some time with Mother and Father." "Its Mama and Papa Orli," said Legolas, "Boromir is family." "Looks like its just you and I then Lady Namarie," said Boromir taking her hand. "See you later," said Rose and Boromir led her out of the summerhouse. "Brings back memories," said Mimi watching after them. "Would you mind if I asked you to dinner Miss Mimi?" said Legolas remembering their night together at Rivendell. "Of course not Your Highness. In fact, I was hoping you would," said Mimi giggling as he hugged her. A brief sadness passed over Orlando's features and he slumped down in an opposite seat. "Are you okay Orli?" asked Mimi. "Fine!" said Orlando sharply. "That usually..." Mimi began but Legolas signaled for her to stop. "I know what's wrong," he said moving over to where Orlando sat. He knelt in front of him and took his hands, "I'm not trying to take your place Orlando." "I didn't say that you were," snapped Orlando. "Not outright but I can see it in your eyes. Orlando I want to be part of your family, not push you from it," said Legolas trying to catch his gaze. "I know that, its just..." "You think that because there's another man in my life you won't be as important anymore?" said Mimi sitting beside him and hugging his shoulders. Orlando nodded mournfully, "I feel that having just lost Damien, I'm now losing you and I don't want to." "Oh Orlando!" cried Mimi, half laughing, half in tears, "Oh darling why didn't you tell me how you felt? You're never going to lose me, I love you so much. I should have realised what was wrong when you were so quiet on the way here. Orlando, baby, you have to understand that Papa and I were...are so very deeply in love and the passed eighteen years have been so hard for us but you're the reason I kept fighting. Now we're back together my love for you won't die, if anything it will get stronger because I can love myself again. You're so precious to us Orlando, we'd never want to push you away." Mimi kissed him softly, "You'll always be my little prince." Orlando hugged her tightly, "I love you Mama." Legolas sat beside him, "We both have a lot to learn Orlando. You have to learn to see me as a father and I have to learn that your mother has other commitments other than me. I know we've been acting like a couple of teenagers for the passed few months but you have to understand the situation we've been in." Orlando turned to him, "I do. I'm sorry Dad, I love you both. You're allowed to act like teenagers sometimes, okay?" "You bet," said Mimi. "Uncle Legolas! Auntie Mimi! Orli!" came a unified cry from the doorway. Dominic and Celeste, two of Roxie's children, rushed in. Legolas hugged Celeste and lifted Dominic into his arms, "Hello my darlings," he said spinning the five year old round, "Where are your Mother and Father?" "Outside, waiting," said Celeste not taking her eyes off Orlando. Mimi elbowed him in the ribs, "I think you have a fan," she whispered. "Uncle Legolas? Uncle Legolas?" said Dominic patting him on the head. "What is it trouble?" said Legolas. "Mama said you had to get your butt to dinner. She said we had to beat you up if you didn't come now." "Oh did she now?" said Legolas walking to the doorway, "Roxie Took you cheeky bat! Come and fetch me yourself next time!" he called. Celeste grabbed Mimi and Orlando's hands and dragged them down the path to her parents as Legolas followed with Dominic. Roxie stood with Pippin, dressed in beautiful hobbit made clothes. She smiled warmly, "Legolas darling you look positively radiant!" she said, "I've not seen you smile like that for so many years. Perhaps now you will join Aragorn and the others at Rivendell every year instead of spending all summer rattling round here on your own." "Of course. I have to show the children the beauties of Middle Earth," said Legolas. "Do you remember the beauties?" said Pippin, "I didn't think you ever saw them, you were far too busy staring dreamily at Mimi here." "You're blushing Uncle Legolas," giggled Celeste. "He just doesn't want Orlando to find out what a sentimental fool he has for a father," said Roxie. "Hey I like him all sentimental, it why I fell for him," said Mimi wrapping an arm around his waist. Orlando offered his hand to Celeste, "You taking me to dinner then?" he asked. She giggled, took his hand and led the party from the gardens.
The quiet dinner was perfect for Mimi. She felt totally relaxed, surrounded by her friends of the Fellowship and their families. She felt totally serene as she had at the banquets following the defeat of Sauron. "Mimi I've just had the most wonderful idea," said Aragorn, "I'm going to hold a masquerade ball." "Wahey! Another excuse to get drunk," said Merry as a nearby servant refilled his glass. "I'm afraid it will be a fairly formal occasion," said Aragorn, "I'll invite delegates from across Middle Earth to come and meet the long lost children of Prince Legolas." "A ball in our honour? Cool," said Orlando, "When is it?" "Two weeks hence." "Two weeks!" cried Legolas, "But they will not be ready. There's so much for them to learn." "I'm sure you'll be able to teach them in time Mirky, you taught Mimi," said Arwen. "Over the space of a year, not a fortnight." "Don't worry Papa, we're fast learners," said Rose.
Legolas was relatively subdued for the rest of the evening as he tried to work out how to deal with teaching his children everything they would need to know for such an important occasion. As the night wore on the group returned to their rooms. Legolas slumped in a chair by the fire, kicking off his boots. "I'm just going to get changed okay Angel?" said Mimi slipping behind the dressing screen, carrying his old blue robe. "Uh-huh," said Legolas not really hearing her. "Tonight was so wonderful. Just being with everyone again, its like I never left." "Uh-huh." "Legolas, huney, are you okay?" "Mmm." Mimi came from behind the screen, fastening the tie of the robe. She looked at Legolas quizzically as he stared into the fire, "Legolas I had an affair with Sauron and the children aren't your's," she said. "I know darling," said Legolas oblivious to what she'd said. Mimi took a pillow from the bed and threw it at him. He started as it caught him round the head, "What was that for?" he said throwing it back at her. "You haven't heard a bloody word I've said have you my dear?" said Mimi. "I'm sorry darling," said Legolas sheepishly, "I was miles away." Mimi came to his side and knelt down, resting her head on his knees, "What's troubling you?" she asked, "Is it this ball?" "I don't know if I can have them ready in such a short time," said Legolas toying idly with her hair, "What am I to do Miranda?" Mimi got up and pulled him to his feet, "Well firstly you're not going to panic, we'll be able to teach them in time and secondly, you're going to stop moping about and kiss me." "Well if you insist," said Legolas, a smile restoring his handsome features. He kissed her gently. Mimi pulled back, a sly look glimmering in her eyes, "You call that a kiss?" she said. "Oh you want a real kiss do you?" said Legolas leaning into her again. She pulled away further, "Uh uh Mr Greenleaf, you had your chance." Legolas drew her close to him, "Don't be a tease." "What if I want to be a tease?" said Mimi, "There's nothing you can do about it." "Oh yeah," said Legolas pulling away from her and taking a pillow off the bed. "No!" cried Mimi running away from him, "Legolas, you dare!" She dived behind the dressing stool. Legolas came beside her and lifted her up by her waist. Setting her back on her feet, he threw her a pillow while picking up another for himself, "Right Miss Tolkien, on guard! We'll see who's the stronger warrior," he said. "Are you challenging me?" said Mimi raising an eyebrow. Legolas was about to answer but before he could Mimi ran to him and pushed him onto the bed. "Hey no fair! I wasn't ready," he said as she hit him with the pillow. "All's fair in love and war my Angel." "Indeed?" he said flipping her onto her back. He pinned her down. "If I claim domestic abuse I could have you thrown in jail," said Mimi. "In London perhaps," he said running gentle kisses down her neck as he pulled the tie of her robe loose, "But we're not in London Miranda my sweet and we elves are beyond your silly human laws." "You elves are far to passionate for your own..." She was silenced as Legolas kissed her. She responded hungrily to him. She reached up and pulled roughly at the fastenings of his shirt, sending a button flying loose as she slipped it off his shoulders. He cast it to the floor as he released her. "Easy Tiger!" said Mimi as she wrapped her arms around his neck and she felt the light brush of his fingers on her body. "I've been dying to kiss you all night," he said. "Well then you'd better kiss me again, I don't want you quitting on me yet," giggled Mimi guiding his face to her's. There was a knock at the door. Legolas pulled back. "Ignore it," said Mimi, "I locked the door." Legolas returned his attentions to her but the knock came again, this time with a call. "Mama! Papa! Are you awake?" came Orlando's voice from outside. Reluctantly Mimi released Legolas, "We should see what they want," she said, "But put your shirt back on first! Just a second my darlings." Legolas picked up his shirt and fastened the buttons that still remained whilst Mimi adjusted her robe. He went to the door and answered it, "Hey you two," he said as Orlando and Rose walked in. "We just came to say goodnight," said Rose. "What Rosalia means is she's shit scared because she heard thunder and she's convinced the palace is haunted," said Orlando as they threw themselves down on the bed. Mimi got up and went to the open balcony doors, "It does look a bit threatening," she said closing them. "This place is definitely not haunted! So how have you enjoyed your first night as royalty?" said Legolas. "Its been great," said Rose, "Everyone is so lovely, just like you said they'd be." "You seem particularly taken by one young elf-prince my dear," said Mimi tucking her daughter's hair behind her ears. Rose blushed, "I know Boromir better than anyone else other than you guys," she said defensively. "This ball Aragorn has planned should be a laugh," said Orlando, "I've never been to a real ball before." "Their not much fun," said Legolas, "It'll all be politics. I left my delegates to deal with that sort of thing." "And went off teaching a girl from London how to dance like an elf," said Mimi. "Hey what could I do? The kid was useless!" said Legolas. Mimi threw a pillow at him, "Cheeky. I wasn't a kid and I wasn't useless." "Whatever you say Mellamin." "I think we'll leave before we get embroiled in a domestic," said Rose hugging her mother, "Night Mama." "Night sweetheart." Orlando shoved Rose aside, "Night Mama," he said. "Night." "Oh, by the way, you need to sew a new button on Dad's shirt." "Okay," said Mimi desperately trying to suppress a guilty laugh. Rose kissed Legolas' cheek as Mimi followed Orlando to the door. "Night Dad. Don't stay up too late you two," said Orlando as he and Rose made a swift exit down the corridor. Legolas closed the door. Turning to Mimi he pulled her to him, "Now where were we?" he said lifting her into his arms.
CHAPTER THIRTEEN.
Mimi woke as a cold breeze rushed over her. She sat up and glanced around the room. Looking over to the balcony, she saw that the doors were open. Climbing out of bed, she closed the doors, having to hug herself as her thin nightdress offered her little warmth. Turning back, she screamed. Legolas woke with a start, "Miranda?!" he cried hurriedly pulling on a robe and coming to her side, "Darling? What's wrong?" Tears rolled down Mimi's cheeks as she stared wide eyed ahead of her, "The wall," she said her voice a whisper. Legolas looked to where she was pointing and nearly cried out himself. Upon the far wall was written, in elvish lettering, 'Welcome home Mimi'. It repeated in thick black lines all across the wall. "Oh my God! Get out of here!" cried Legolas but Mimi was frozen with fear. Gathering her up in his arms, Legolas flung open the door and fled into the brightly lit corridor. He heard a door open and turned violently, still clutching Mimi tightly against him. He relaxed only slightly as he saw Aragorn and Arwen run into the corridor. "What happened?" said Aragorn running over to them and seeing the state Mimi was in, "We heard screaming from your room." "In there," said Legolas setting Mimi back on her feet. Aragorn took a candle from a nearby chandelier and went into the room. "Hush, hush Miranda," said Legolas, "You're safe. I'm here." Mimi clung to him, shivering with fear and the cold. She looked up at him, her pupils wide with desperation, "My children," she said, "Find my children." "I'll go and get them," said Arwen going off down the corridor. Aragorn came back out of the room and shouted for the guards, "What happened in there?" he said taking off his cloak and wrapping it around Mimi. "I don't know," said Legolas shaking himself, "I just heard Miranda screaming and then saw that dreadful writing. Aragorn what's going on? Who'd want to do this to us?" "Legolas! Legolas, calm yourself, for Mimi's sake. Everything's okay." "The children aren't in their rooms," said Arwen running out of Orlando's bedchamber. "No!" cried Mimi collapsing in Legolas' arms. "Oh my God! Aragorn we have to find them." "We will," said Aragorn as four guards came up to them, "Arwen, take Mimi see if you can calm her down. Two of you stay with them, use any force necessary in their defence. You other two and Legolas with me. We need to find Orli and Rose." "Go with Arwen, Miranda," said Legolas releasing her. Mimi grabbed his hands, "Find them," she pleaded. "I'll find them," said Legolas, "They'll be fine." The party broke. Arwen, Mimi and two of the guards returning to Arwen's room. The other two guards taking on corridor and Legolas and Aragorn the other. "Orlando? Rose?" "Orli? Rose? Where are you?" "Is there anywhere they would have gone if they were moving freely?" said Aragorn. "I don't know," said Legolas as he ran down the stairs. Flying round a corner, he ran straight into Elrond. "Whoa! Legolas! Shouldn't you be with that beautiful wife of your's?" said Elrond steadying him. "Oh Elrond something terrible has happened and the children are missing," said Legolas. "No they're not, I saw them just a moment ago, out by the fountain. They said they were too excited to sleep. Bless them they...Legolas! Aragorn! Wait for me!" cried Elrond as they made for the gardens.
"Orlando! Rosalia!" cried Legolas as the fountain came into view. Orlando and Rose got up from where they were sitting. Legolas ran to them and held them both tightly, "Oh thank the stars you're alright, I was so worried." "We only went for a walk Papa," said Rose pulling back. "You shouldn't go wandering off on your own," said Legolas, "Let's get you inside before anything else happens." "Anything else? Dad what's wrong? You're as white as a sheet," said Orlando. "I'll explain later, please just get inside," said Legolas. "Papa, you're shaking. What's happened?" said Rose, "Where's Mama?" "She's safe but you..." he cut off abruptly, his eyes darting frantically about him, "Get inside the palace." "Papa what's..." "Don't argue Rose, get inside now. Aragorn take her, get her to safety." Lifting her, Aragorn and Elrond ran back to the sanctuary of Ecthelian. "Come on Orlando." "I can feel something Dad. I feel cold, danger," said Orlando not moving. Legolas grabbed his hand and dragged him along the path, "I feel the same Orli. Your elven powers come more into account in this world. You feel the threat the same as I do. Hurry."
Dragged and carried quickly through the palace, the twins were soon back on their bedroom corridors. Orlando lagged behind, out of breath and confused. "Stay close Orli please," said Legolas running back to fetch him, "We have to get to your Mother, she's worried." "Dad I'm frightened," he said. Legolas paused and hugged him, "I know. I'm scared too but its going to be okay. We just need to get to your Mother. Once we're there I'll explain everything to you. Come on." They ran to Arwen's room. She sat, cradling Mimi as she cried. The guards stood close by. "Where are my children?" she sobbed. "Mimi?" said Aragorn. Mimi turned and saw the twins in the doorway. "Oh my darlings," she cried as they ran to her arms, "Thank God you're alright. Where were you?" "We only went for a walk Mama, we didn't mean to cause any trouble," said Rose. Mimi hugged them both tightly, "It doesn't matter. All that matters is you're safe. I thought something terrible had happened to you." Legolas came to them and hugged Mimi's shoulders as she cried, "Its okay, we're safe," he said resting his head against her's. "We'll find out who did this Mimi. I promise," said Aragorn.
By next morning news of the night's event had spread through the palace and the place was on full alert. Aragorn sat, faithfully watching over Legolas and his family as they slept fitfully on his bed. The twins slept between their parents, protected by their embrace. Arwen touched his shoulder, "You should rest Aragorn, the guards shall watch over them," she said. "No, I promised Legolas I would watch over them and I will. I owe it to him, its my fault this happened," said Aragorn getting to his feet and pacing the room. "Your fault? How?" said Arwen. "I should have had better security. I dread to think what we may have found if someone had gone to fetch Mimi and Legolas this morning. I'm grateful our artistic friend only damaged the walls." Arwen came to his side, "Aragorn, my love, you could not have prevented this. We've been at peace for so long and an attack like this was so unexpected. I know how much you care for Legolas and Mimi but you are not to blame." "I know, I know," said Aragorn feeling too tired to argue with her, "But Legolas has been like a brother to me for over twenty years and Mimi and I couldn't be closer friends. I would die if anything happened to either of them, or the children." Arwen caressed his cheek softly, "Your heart will land you in so much trouble one of these days," she said kissing him. "I'd do anything to save those I care about." Legolas groaned softly as he woke. Aragorn was immediately by his side, as Legolas looked briefly disorientated. "So it wasn't a nightmare," he said staring up at the ceiling. "I wish I could say it was my friend," said Aragorn, "Do you still feel a threat nearby?" "Not anymore. Whatever it was it is gone for now," said Legolas getting off the bed, "Have you seen the room in daylight yet? Any clues as to who it was?" "None. The message just repeats all over that wall and nowhere else." "I want to see it," said Legolas. "Is that such a good idea? You've had so much trauma already," said Aragorn as Legolas moved round the bed. He bent over Mimi and kissed her gently so as not to wake her, "My emotions do not matter but any threat to Miranda does. I will not have the most precious thing in my existence at any risk. I have been thinking, maybe it would be safer for everyone if Miranda and I return to London with the twins and live there." "Legolas no! You cannot do such a rash thing over something that is probably little more than a sick practical joke," cried Aragorn. "The coincidence is too strong for me to ignore. When the wraiths attacked at the tavern I was their reason and now this move against Miranda. We endanger ourselves and worst of all you by staying here," said Legolas heading for the door. "You should talk to Mimi before deciding anything," said Aragorn joining him, "What exactly happened last night Legolas? Have you any idea yourself who did it?" "None. Miranda and I were up late and I was woken by her screams about an hour after we went to sleep. At first I thought it was one of her nightmares but she was out of bed and I've never known her to sleep walk. I got up, went over to her and saw the writing, the rest you know." "Mimi said something about the balcony doors being open," said Aragorn. "Well neither of us opened them. The weather looked liked it would turn when the twins came to say goodnight and I remember Miranda closing them," said Legolas. "So how did whoever it was get in?" "The main door, they came from within the palace," said Legolas. "But how? You always lock your door when you retire," said Aragorn. "Miranda locked it but then the twins came and I forgot to lock it when they left," said Legolas as they entered the room. "God! Its even worse in daylight!" said Legolas as he turned to see the wall, "Who'd want to do this? Miranda made no enemies that still remain on the mainland." "Arwen had a theory and I'm inclined to agree with her," said Aragorn. "What is it?" asked Legolas, "Any conclusions would be welcome." "She thought it might be a jealous maid." "Why would a maid be jealous of Miranda?" "Think about it my friend. You're hardly and orc and the years have treated you well. Your looks are celebrated throughout Gondor, you carry a title and are a hero of the Fellowship. Not to mention the fact that your wife has been missing for nineteen years. You're quite a prize Legolas, Mimi's return has taken you from anyone hoping to claim you." "You think this attack is through some stupid battle for my affections?" said Legolas dismissing the idea. "Arwen seems quite convinced," said Aragorn as Legolas pulled his clothes and one of Mimi's dresses out of the closet. "But I felt a threat and so did Orlando, that would not have come unless it was real," said Legolas slipping behind the screen to change. Aragorn sat down on the bed, his eyes scanning the wall for any clue they may have missed, "Arwen has that covered too. She says your fear for the children and Mimi created the feelings within you and that Orlando's was merely from seeing you afraid." "And you agree with her?" said Legolas. "I think she may be right but then maybe not. I just feel we risk blowing what could just be a simple prank out of proportion. I'm not saying what happened wasn't a terrible shock for you and Mimi but you need to be strong, like you were when Pheobus attacked Mimi at Rivendell," said Aragorn. "Pheobus?" said Legolas emerging from behind the screen, "You don't think..." "Don't be absurd Legolas! He is at the havens. He wouldn't even know of Mimi's return. According to him, she's still in London," said Aragorn as Legolas fastened his daggers about his hips and tied his hair back from his eyes. "Do you want the children armed?" "It would put my mind at rest. It was so much easier when I only had Miranda to worry about, I knew she could defend herself," said Legolas opening a large chest and rummaging inside. "What are you doing?" asked Aragorn bemused. Legolas pulled out a bow and quiver, which Aragorn instantly recognised as Mimi's. "When Father had these returned to me at Elbereth I never thought I'd be returning them to their real owner. I kept them as a reminder of her bravery, they lent me her strength when the days were hard," said Legolas running his finger along the patterned bow, "I thought my suffering had ended when I found her again Aragorn but now I see that it may have no end." Aragorn came to his side and hugged him, "Things will get better Legolas, I promise. If I could only take everything you've gone through in your life and change it, I would." "I'm sorry. I shouldn't let myself get like this," said Legolas pulling back and wiping his eyes on his sleeve, "I'm meant to be a warrior and I'm crying like a five year old!" "Hey its allowed once in a while," said Aragorn, "God knows I do. We're only human after all..." "Elven," said Legolas. "We both have hearts, that doesn't change between our peoples. Come on Mirky, put a smile on that face of your's and let's get these clothes to Mimi." Gathering up the beautiful blue gown, Legolas followed Aragorn back to his room.
Mimi and the twins were awake but still relatively subdued. Laying the dress down, Legolas went to them and hugged them each in turn. Mimi looked pale and drawn. Legolas tilted her face to his and kissed her gently, "I love you Miranda," he said. She smiled weakly, "I love you too. Arwen said you went back to look at our room. Did you find anything?" "Not yet. You're safe though darling, I shan't leave your side from now on." "Come along children," said Arwen, "Let's leave your parents alone for a while okay?" "Okay," said Orlando taking Rose's hand and following Aragorn and Arwen out of the room. The door clicked closed. "They're so frightened," said Mimi. "They'll be fine and so will you. We'll get through this Miranda. I brought some clothes from next door if you want to change," said Legolas handing her the dress. "Thank you," said Mimi disappearing behind the screen. She handed him her nightdress round the side and he began to fold it idly. "Arwen thinks it may have been just a sick joke by an envious maid last night." "Let's hope..." Mimi's voice trailed into a pitiful sob. "Miranda?" said Legolas walking round the screen to see her with her face covered by her hands. She was shaking. "Darling what's the matter?" "I can't do this stupid dress up," she sobbed tugging angrily at the ribbons of her dress. "Hey, hey now huney," said Legolas, "Its okay. Turn around, I'll do it for you." Mimi turned and Legolas quickly fastened the ribbons. "I'm sorry Angel," said Mimi trying to stop her tears. "Sorry for what? Oh Miranda you're shaking come here," said Legolas turning her and hugging her, "What have you got to be sorry for? None of this is your fault. Its just some stupid bastard trying to scare us." "I'm weak Legolas. I can't cope with things like this anymore, I'm useless to you," said Mimi burying her face in his shirt. "Don't talk that way. You're not weak and you're not useless. Miranda you're allowed to be scared, I am. You're my life and I'm not going to let anyone hurt you. You were my strength when I failed in Moria and now I shall be your's here. We're united remember, we're one. We face this together as we faced the quest and Mirkwood," said Legolas pulling back to look at her, "You, my princess, need to realise that everyone that matters here loves you and will protect you to the very end if need be." Mimi smiled up at him, her eyes regaining some of their customary sparkle, "you're my best friend in the whole world Legolas," she said softly, "I always know I can count on you to put things right for me." Legolas kissed her, sweet little kisses that took her back to their first days together in Rivendell, "My darling," he said barely releasing her, "My life would be worthless without you. Let's go for a walk, the fresh air will make you feel better."
Legolas led her into the gardens and for a while they walked in silence. "I've been toying with an idea," said Legolas sitting her down on a bench, "If you would feel safer we could return to London with the twins and live there." Mimi's eyes widened in horror, "No Legolas no! We cannot leave Middle Earth, it is our home and we shan't be pushed from it. We've never run from a fight before and we can't now. You said you're my strength for this, well then help me to show whoever did this to us that we shall not give in," she said, "I shan't be pushed from the world I love again." "Your strength astounds me at times my love," said Legolas running his fingers through her hair, "You always were the braver of us. We shan't be beaten and I know the best way to show it." He got to his feet and offered her his hand, "Come along Mellamin, we have to teach our children the ways of the court but first..." He pulled her to her feet and drew her into his arms, "...I'm going to have to kiss you again." Finally Mimi's eyes and smile were fully restored as she looked up at him and accepted his petal warm kiss.
CHAPTER FOURTEEN.
Two weeks passed without anymore dramas. Legolas and Mimi had moved back into their room after it had been redecorated to remove the painted messages. They spent their days teaching Orlando and Rose the etiquette they would need for the masquerade. They taught them how to address people, how to walk and talk like royalty and the numerous dances that would see them through the evening. Alongside the lessons, Legolas also showed his family the wonders of Gondor and the close surroundings. The children were amazed by it all and asked many questions. They also became quickly part of the strong friendships that existed between the families of the Fellowship. As the night of the dance came, Legolas sat in Orlando's room, waiting for him to emerge in his newly tailored clothes. "God Orli, how long does it take for you to get changed?" he groaned. "I'm getting there," said Orlando, "Why can't you people have invented zips yet? All these bloody ribbons. I'm gay not a girl." "You'll get used to them. Hurry up, I've still got to do your hair." "Can't I just have it like your's?" said Orlando coming from behind the screen, dressed in light blue trousers and a white shirt, embroidered with gold. He twirled around, "What d'ya think?" "It looks great," said Legolas, "Now sit down, I have to make you look presentable to a royal audience or at least to the mob Aragorn's invited to the dance." Orlando sat and allowed Legolas to pull his hair into several small plaits that joined behind his head and fell amongst the rest of his loose hair. "Ooh I like. Dad you should have been a hairdresser." "That's what your Mama used to say. Now hole still, there's one more thing." Legolas wrapped an intricate gold band that ended in an elaborate pattern on Orlando's forehead, into his son's hair, "There you are, Prince Lorindol Naryalin of Mirkwood. I'm so very proud of you my son and I know, if he was here, Damien would be too." Orlando turned to face him, "Would you have let me announce publicly that Damien was my partner if he'd lived and come with us?" he asked. Legolas smiled and nodded, "Yes I would, even though I know it would not be welcomed by many. I'd never force you to hide your love for anyone, it would be against everything I did to keep your mother by my side." Orlando hugged him, "You really love her, don't you?" he said. "Of course I do, what a funny question! Why? Do you think I don't?" "I was scared at first. Scared you wouldn't love her because she'd got older, scared you wouldn't love us because we weren't what you expected us to be," said Orlando. "You never had to fear that. Your mother has got older but so have I and believe me she is more beautiful now than she was when she left. As for you and Rose, I have never loved two people more, I adore the pair of you," said Legolas. "Remind me to get you a 'World's Greatest Dad' card when we get back to London." There was a knock at the door. "Can we come in?" called Mimi. "Of course Mellamin, the door's open." Mimi and Rose came in dressed in beautiful flowing ballgowns, Mimi's favouring the silver of Legolas' shirt and Rose's the gold of Orlando's. "Wow Mama, you look beautiful," said Orlando. "Thank you darling, you look lovely too." "Hey how come Rose and Mama get to where crowns?" protested Orlando. "Its not a crown, it's a tiara," said Legolas, "And you'd look a complete fool wearing one." Rose stuck her tongue out at Orlando, "So nah, batty boy!" she jeered. "Fuck you!" hissed Orlando. "Hey!" said Mimi sharply, "There's no room for juvenile delinquency tonight. I want you two on your best behaviour, you hear?" "Yes Mama," said the twins in unison. Rose held her mask to her face, "Do we have to hold these things up all night?" she asked, "I'll get arm ache." Legolas laughed, "Not all night. Only when you dance and I've only taught you a few so you won't have to get up too often," he said picking up his own mask. "Do you remember our first masquerade Angel?" asked Mimi. "Of course, it was your third night in Rivendell," said Legolas, "I hadn't seen you since you'd arrived with Aragorn and I didn't think you were at the ball until I saw you and Roxie in the doorway. When I stepped into the dance with Arwen after the elven dance I saw you sitting alone. You looked really upset so I followed you outside and introduced myself. We were inseparable from then on." "But it still took you twenty-one days to kiss me," said Mimi. "Twenty-one days!" exclaimed Orlando, "Dad I'm disappointed. God if you'd been in London you would have been labeled gay long before that." "Cheeky!" said Legolas, "I was shy back then, you inherited your confidence from your mother." "Hey are we going to stand her jabbering all night or are we going to this party? It is in honour of the Greenleaf family after all," said Rose handing Orlando his mask and taking his hand. "Just a second you two," said Mimi, "Orlando, despite your sexuality you have to support Rose's hand and walk on her right, not the other way around." Orlando swapped sides and raised Rose's hand to the level of his chest, "Better?" he asked. "Much," said Mimi as Legolas took her hand in the same way and led her out of the room, their masks held before their faces.
The ball was in full swing when they arrived. Both Orlando and Rose thought they'd stepped into a period drama as people dressed in elaborate outfits swirled in an amazing dance to the orchestra's music. There was a low hum of conversation and the musical clink of glasses. Peoples from across Middle Earth, including those the twins could not identify, filled the room, all sporting different fashions native to their kingdoms and tribes. Aragorn, Arwen, Elrond and Boromir sat upon a raised plateau on beautifully crafted oak thrones. Their robes, even from a distance, were clearly of the most expensive silks and velvets. Mimi caught her daughter's eyes lingering on Boromir, "He looks very handsome tonight doesn't he?" she said softly. Rose smiled at her, blushing, "Yes, yes he does," she said quickly drawing her mask to her face. Legolas caught Aragorn's gaze and nodded to him. The mortal king got to his feet and clapped his hands for attention. He signaled to the heralds and they took up a trumpet call. Following their parents, Rose and Orlando made their way through the hall and up to the plateau as the crowd parted and dropped into curtsies and bows as they passed. Legolas and Mimi sketched a dignified bow and curtsy as they paused before Aragorn. Orlando and Rose followed suit. "Their Royal Highnesses, Laiqalasse Naryalin and Miranda, High Prince and Princess of Mirkwood," called a herald, "And their children, Prince Lorindol and Princess Namarie." A low hum of stifled conversation filled the room as the family rose again. The twins only caught snippets but they could understand what the chatter was about. "She has returned..." "The rumours were true..." "There are two..." "And a boy, the line of Narya..." Aragorn regained the crowd's attention, "Friends, honoured guests," he called, "I hereby present to you the lost children of Mirkwood who have been returned to us after so many years apart. They carry the unified blood of the Silvan elves and mortals and are yet another symbol of the reunion of Middle Earth after the War of the Ring. Peoples of our great world, I pray you, bid them welcome." The crowd erupted into joyous cheers and calls of welcome in every language known to Middle Earth. Orlando and Rose, completely overwhelmed, managed to remember their father's training and acknowledged the crowd beautifully. "And now to the dance," called Aragorn over the noise, "I command you all for the night is still young." Rose was soon aware of Boromir by her side, "Princess Namarie, would you do me the honour of granting me this dance?" he said offering her his hand. "The honour is all mine Your Highness," she said as he led her to the floor. "Cousin Lorindol?" came a voice to Orlando's left. Orlando turned to see Celeste, his fifteen year old cousin, standing beside him. "Will you dance with me?" "Of course I will sweethe... I mean Lady Celeste. It would be a pleasure." "They're doing so well," said Mimi as Legolas led her onto the floor. "I always knew they would," said Legolas bowing before her as the music started, "They are, after all, our children."
As the night went by the ball continued. "Orlando sit up properly," said Legolas as Orlando sat lazily in the chair next to him. Orlando pulled himself upright, "But Dad this party's getting old and these chairs are giving me arse ache," he mumbled fidgeting. "Its something you'll have to get used to," said Legolas, "I'm not a fan of these state occasions but do you see me complaining? Rose is having a good time, perhaps you should learn from her." "Rose hasn't taken her eyes off Boromir all night," said Orlando, "I'd be enjoying myself if I was dancing with a diabolically sexy man too." Legolas laughed, "Hey keep your chin up Orli, maybe one of the dwarvish party will ask for your hand, its hard to tell which sex is which with them. You may be lucky," he whispered. Orlando pulled a face, "If we weren't in public I'd kill you for that," he said. "I'd like to see you try," said Legolas. "Ooh I'm shaking! You don't scare me you fucking pointy eared bow twanger!" "Who are you calling pointy eared?" retorted Legolas. "Cut it out you two," said Mimi leaning over Legolas slightly. "Sorry Mellamin, I'm afraid boredom is setting in," said Legolas. Mimi's gaze softened, "I know what you mean," she said, "If only there was a way to spice things up a little?" "You could streak," said Orlando, "Or I will if you're too chicken." "Don't you dare!" said Legolas. Mimi was quiet as she sat thinking. Suddenly her eyes lit up and she sprang to her feet, "I've got an idea," she said walking away, leaving her mask on her seat and heading towards the orchestra. "Where's Mama going?" asked Rose as she and Boromir retired from the dance and came to Legolas and Orlando. "I'm not entirely sure," said Legolas. Boromir kissed the back of Rose's hand, "Until later Rose," he said moving away to his father. "Rose hey?" said Legolas as she sat down in a chair next to Orlando, "You two are getting quite familiar. Am I to expect to become brothers with Aragorn through more than our friendship?" "Dad!" hissed Rose blushing, "Stop it." Orlando watched, intrigued, as Mimi whispered something to the orchestra's conductor. He seemed to resist her request but she pressed him further, undoubtedly pulling rank on him, until he agreed. She came back to them, "May I have this dance Your Highness?" she asked offering Legolas her hand. Legolas picked up his mask and got to his feet but Mimi took it from him and handed it to Orlando, "You won't need that," she said leading him to the floor, they were the only couple there. "What's going on?" said Rose leaning over to her brother. Orlando shrugged, "Search me." The orchestra started up but the music was unlike anything it had played that evening. Orlando could only vaguely relate it to the Spanish dance music he'd heard when Mimi had taken them to Madrid a few years earlier. Orlando and Rose watched in amazement as their parents danced. Abandoning the decorum and rules of the court that they had taught their children, the dance was passionate, fast, with absolute contact throughout. Orlando scanned the faces of the amazed onlookers. They were completely stunned as Legolas held Mimi tight against him, leaning her backwards, spinning her round the floor as caressing her slim figure as the dance continued. Orlando turned his attentions to Aragorn, not knowing what expression he would see on his face. Aragorn sat masking a laugh with his hand as he too watched the amazed bystanders. Happy that the king was not displeased, Orlando returned to watching his parents. The dance ended in a loud crescendo of music. Legolas, breathing heavily, raised Mimi's hand to his lips and kissed the back of it. The crowd was silent as they walked back up to the plateau and bowed to Aragorn. He applauded them, "That was wonderful!" he said, "I have not seen a true elven dance performed that way in so many years." Realising Aragorn was not displeased, a weak applause began throughout the audience. Gradually it grew and grew until it was so thunderous that Rose feared her ears would burst. Legolas and Mimi acknowledged their audience and returned to their children. "There, was that spicy enough for you?" said Mimi. Orlando stared, unblinking, at them. "Do close your mouth darling, you're not the Mersea Tunnel." "Oh my God!" said Orlando slowly, "Was that legal?" "No it was elven," said Legolas. "Its like one of those flamenco things," said Orlando, "Only ten times more...ten times more..." "Passionate!" finished Mimi. "Yeah. Wow! That was wild. I can't believe you told me you couldn't dance Dad, you were great. Do elves really dance like that?" Legolas nodded, "Though we don't usually dance that way in front of mortals. They don't seem to appreciate the beauty of such close contact in a dance." "Well I'm glad I'm half elven," said Orlando, "Now I can blame any future naughtiness on my even passions and you can't argue." "Always worked for me," said Legolas.
As the night drew to a close, Legolas led Mimi along one of the open walkways that surrounded the garden. "Sshh!" he said cutting her off mid-sentence, "Can you hear that?" Mimi listened, "I can't hear a thing," she said. "Its Rose's voice," said Legolas leading her further down the balcony and pointing into the gardens below. Rose stood with Boromir, deep in conversation. "Legolas we should leave them," said Mimi trying to pull him away. "No," said Legolas, "I want to see if my theory about these two is right or not." "Oh well," said Mimi succumbing to the temptation, "I'm sure it won't hurt to stay for a little while." Slipping into Legolas' arms, she watched her daughter and the young prince.
"Did you enjoy tonight?" asked Boromir. "It was wonderful," said Rose, "All that dancing. All those beautiful men and women in those amazing costumes." "Yet despite those costumes one beauty stood out above them all," said Boromir taking her hand, "You look wonderful tonight Rose." Rose blushed and averted her eyes from him, "Thank you," she said, "But I think you may be exaggerating." Boromir reached out and took her other hand, "No I'm not," he said his voice close to a whisper, "You're so beautiful, it amazes me at times that you're real." Rose giggled nervously as he raised her hand to his lips and kissed it, running kisses across her fingers, then turning her hand and pressing his lips to her palm. Gently guiding his hands to her waist, Rose stepped closer to him and flattened her hands on his chest, "This is totally against the decorum of the court," she said running her hands onto his shoulders as he pulled her closer. Boromir leant down to her, his lips so close to her's that Rose could almost feel them as he spoke. "But I too am of elven birth and I can blame this on my elven passions." "Which elven passions would they be?" said Rose closing her eyes as he came even closer. "The one's that burn for you," he said brushing her lips as he spoke.
Mimi sighed as she watched them kiss, "What it was like to be young and in love," she said leaning her head on Legolas' shoulder, "That first kiss. You feel so nervous but then everything turns out to be perfect." "Your heart thumping hard in your chest, praying you get it right and then never wanting it to end," said Legolas turning her to him. Mimi smiled, "And then longing for the next time." Legolas kissed her softly, "You know what Mellamin?" "What?" "I don't think we ever grew up," he said holding her tightly, "Because I still feel that way every time I kiss you." "But who'd ever want that feeling to die?" said Mimi capturing his lips and caressing the soft, golden cascade about his shoulders. "The prophecy of Galadriel," he whispered as Mimi released him. Mimi looked at him quizzically, "You've lost me Angel." " 'When you have lost all hope and your line is at its end, there shall be one who comes to unite the kingdoms of Middle Earth. Do not seek it for it shall seek you out'," said Legolas quoting the elven sorceress. "Yes I remember," said Mimi. "She spoke of Rose," said Legolas looking down at his daughter, "She came to find me when I'd lost all hope and my line is at its end as Orlando will never have children." "And now she and Boromir are the unification of Mirkwood and Gondor," said Mimi. "Of elves and men," said Legolas, "Strange how things fall into place, without our intervention in any way." "That's the beauty of this world," said Mimi turning his face back to her, "Who'd ever though that we'd be reunited?" Legolas caught her familiar gaze, "Indeed. I think we've lingered here too long Your Highness," he said leading her away from the balcony.
CHAPTER FIFTEEN.
Two weeks passed all too quickly for everyone in Gondor and the day soon arrived when Mimi and her twins had to return to London. Legolas, unable to bear another separation, even for a short time and fearing for their safety, chose to accompany them. They saddled Descaminord and Loci, choosing to ride tandem rather than solo, despite the twins newly learnt riding abilities. Legolas smiled as he watched Orlando say goodbye to Roxie's children. Orlando's confidence, naturally strong, had grown even more since his arrival in Middle Earth. Now, dressed in beautiful elven riding clothes with his own bow, quiver and daggers fastened neatly to his back, he looked exactly like the young prince who had arrived in Rivendell nearly twenty-one years ago to join the Fellowship. "Come here little Miranda," said Orlando taking Roxie's two year old from her arms and spinning her around. "Fly me Orli! Fly me!" squeaked Miranda as she held her arms wide, catching the breeze in her sleeves of her shirt. Orlando kissed her and handed her back to Roxie, "Now be good all of you," he said as they all looked close to tears, "I won't be away long. Love you all." The children returned his affections loudly. "Come on Orlando!" called Legolas, "We'll never get anywhere if you don't get a move on." "I'm coming," said Orlando walking over and climbing onto Loci's back, "Come along Mama." Mimi fastened her quiver to her back and slipped her bow onto her shoulder, "Yes Sir," she said saluting him, "Where's your sister?" "Over there sucking face with Boromir," said Orlando pointing over to Rose who stood hidden in Boromir's arms, she was crying. "Poor love," said Mimi as Legolas lifted her onto Descaminord's back and climbed up behind her. "We shan't be away for long," said Legolas, "She'll barely have time to miss him." "You cold hearted bastard!" giggled Mimi, "You wouldn't be saying that if it was us being separated." Legolas kissed her cheek, "I guess not. Come along Rosalia!" Rose came over to them and stared up at her father, her green eyes fierce with determination, "I'm not going with you," she said. "What?" said Legolas surprised by her tone, "Why ever not?" "I can't leave Boromir. Please Papa, let me stay." "What do you think Miranda?" said Legolas. "I can't see any harm in it I suppose but only if Aragorn is happy for you to stay," said Mimi glancing over at her friend. "She's perfectly welcome," he said, "And I can assure you she will be well looked after." Rose ran to Aragorn and hugged him, "Oh thank you Aragorn. Thank you so much." He released himself from her grip, "Save your embraces for my son my dear Rose. Don't waste them on an old man like me. Now go and say goodbye so the rest of your family can get along." Rose hugged her parents, "I'll see you in a couple of months then," she said smiling. Mimi choked back a sob, "Oh my baby," she said, "I'm going to miss you so much." "Its not long Mama. Say goodbye to everyone for me." "I will," said Mimi blowing her a kiss. Rose turned to Orlando, "Bye little bro, behave yourself." Orlando leant down and hugged her tightly, "I'll miss you Rose. This is the longest we've been separated since forever," he said, a tear breaking loose as she kissed his cheek. "I know. Keep your telepathy turned on, you hear me boy?" "I hear you huney." "Orlando," said Legolas catching his son's attention, "If you want you can stay too." Orlando shook his head, "Much as I'd love to but I want to see Damien one last time, to say goodbye," he said with a weak smile. "Be iest lîn," said Legolas, "I understand." "Hah!" cried Roxie, "Bang goes your dirty few weeks away without the kids." "You haven't changed one bit Roxanne!" laughed Mimi. "You wouldn't have me any other way Sis!" "That's for sure. See you soon. We'd better hit the road guys." "Ride for Rivendell when you return," said Aragorn, "We leave for there in a week." "Okay," said Legolas, "We'll see you in early June. Take care. I love you all." Calls of farewell followed Mimi, Legolas and Orlando as they left the palace gates. "And its back to London we go," said Mimi. "Back to the cemetery with lights," said Orlando, "Even Soho's going to seem tame after this place." "Dear Lorindol," said Legolas, "You haven't seen anything yet!"
Their journey back to the Shire and London was uneventful and, in Orlando's outspoken opinion, boring. Mimi had to push hard on the door to Minas Mirkwood to get through the mountains of letters that lay in the hall. "I never even thought that there would be no-one to collect the mail. Damien used to...oh Orlando I'm sorry," said Mimi as Orlando's face fell. "Don't be Mama. I can't expect you not to talk about him. Its just a bit strange putting 'used to' before everything he did," said Orlando picking up the mail and sorting it into separate piles, "Why do we only ever get sent junk mail?" he muttered, "No I don't want a new internet server, I'm moving to Middle Earth. Ooh hang on, this looks interesting." "What is it?" said Legolas. "Its from Connor. Why's he writing to me? He knows I went away." Orlando opened the letter, glanced at it and fled upstairs. "Orlando what's..." Mimi called but Legolas stopped her. "It's a love letter Miranda," he said, "It has to be. I've seen the way Connor looks at Orlando. We may have a bit of emotional turmoil on our hands." "Oh dear," said Mimi, "That's the last thing I need."
As the weeks passed by, Mimi began sorting her affairs before she left, allegedly to live in Norway with her husband. She left her house, money and copyrights to her books to the UCH so they could use the revenue to fund treatments and research for cystic fibrosis and AIDS. Orlando resumed his friendship with Connor but made no comment on the letter. Legolas, easily reading their emotions, saw their attachment grow but also Orlando's resistance to his feelings. Knowing that to leave Connor behind would eventually destroy Orlando's hopes of ever finding love again, Legolas chose to risk everything by talking to him, despite his protestations to leave the subject at rest. "Legolas huney, could you get those boxes from upstairs for me?" called Mimi from the front room, "I've got more stuff for that charity drop." "Sorry Mellamin, I'm off out," called Legolas pulling on his coat. Mimi appeared in the doorway, her hair tied up in a scarf to protect it from the dust, "Where are you going?" she asked, "You having an affair or something?" "I'm going to see Orlando. He went off to the graveyard again this morning," said Legolas. "That's the fourth time in three days," said Mimi, "I'm getting worried about him. I know he misses Damien but this is getting unhealthy, he's starting to rely on that head stone more than he does on us." "That's why I'm going to talk to him," said Legolas kissing her goodbye, "I won't be long. Love you." "Love you too," said Mimi as he left the house.
The mid-May sunshine was warm on Legolas' back as he walked down the cemetery paths, glad for the slight alleviation the light gave to such a gloomy place. In the distance he could make out Orlando's figure, crouching by the side of one of the graves. Quickening his step, he arrived at his son's side. Orlando looked up, squinting in the sunlight, "Hey Dad, what are you doing here?" he asked getting to his feet. "I came to talk to you Orlando, its important. Is there somewhere we could sit down? This may take a while." Orlando nodded and led Legolas to a nearby bench, "What is it Dad? You don't look your usual self." "Orlando, your Mama and I are getting worried about you. You're spending far too much time here. Its not good for you," said Legolas. "Don't worry about me Papa. I'm fine, honest. I just want to say what I have to say to Damien before I leave." Legolas reached out and took his son's hands, his blue eyes intense with worry, "Don't you see Orli? That's what's bothering us," he said, "You're treating that headstone as if it was Damien. I know this sounds harsh and I hate to have to say it so soon after you've lost him but Damien's gone, you need to move on." Orlando got to his feet and began to walk away, "and what if I don't want to move on?" "Don't walk away from me Lorindol!" said Legolas. Orlando stopped, shocked by Legolas using his elven name in such a tone. He felt a warm hand grip his shoulder as Legolas turned him to face him. "You need to let go, move on. I know its hard but you need to learn that there are men in this world other than Damien and you need to free yourself of the thought that he's the only one you can love." Orlando's eyes burned with tears as he stared in disbelief at his father, "How can you lecture me on letting go when you spent nineteen years locked away in Ecthelian pining over my Mother? How can you be such a hypocrite?" "Your mother was still alive!" said Legolas grabbing Orlando's shoulders, "I still had hope that she'd return to me. Damien's dead Orlando, he can't come back and everyday you waste waiting for him you push someone who loves you further and further away." "I'm not getting onto this Connor rubbish again Legolas!" cried Orlando shoving him away and returning to Damien's graveside, "I love Damien and no- one else." "Then if you truly love him you'll know he'd have wanted you to move on. He loved Liam but did that stop him falling for you?" said Legolas not moving, "We all lose souls we care for Orlando but if we allow that to kill what love we have then we are the one's who deserve to be gone from this world. Its time you learnt that you cannot have a lover of stone and flowers but you can have a lover of flesh and blood who would follow you to the ends of the earth if you ask him to. I'll leave you to think things over but think quickly, you've not got much time left." Without a word of goodbye, Legolas made off down the path and left the cemetery.
"Bastard," muttered Orlando as he watched his father disappear out of the graveyard, "What right has he to tell me how to live my life? Its not as if he's been there for me. H e didn't raise me or make me what I am. He swans in after eighteen years and just expects to..." Orlando checked himself, realising everything he was saying was unfair. Reaching inside his pocket he pulled out his Lothlorien brooch. "What do I do Damien? I'm so confused," he said running his hand over the gravestone, "I need more time. Oh why does everything have to be judged in minutes? It makes everything seem so short, so fragile. I don't know who I am anymore. You knew my past but Connor doesn't. What am I meant to do? He'll think I'm mad if I start telling him I'm from another world, one way trip to the loony bin for me." A light breeze blew a dry, brown leaf into Orlando's lap. He held it against his brooch, the pattern was the same. He smiled, "Why does that man always have to be right?" Closing his hand around the brooch and the leaf, he shut his eyes and muttered softly in elvish. Opening his hand, he held the delicate rosebud up in front of him, "Life can be renewed," he said, "And so can love. I'll never forget you Damien but Papa's right, I need to let go." He took Connor's letter out of his pocket and got to his feet, "I must be out of my mind," he said running from the graveyard.
Slamming the door, Legolas stormed into the front room and threw himself down on the sofa, burying his face in his arms. "Hey, you're back," called Mimi from upstairs, "And how are my two elven dar...one elven darling who looks decidedly upset. Legolas? Are you okay my Angel?" Mimi descended the stairs and knelt beside him, stroking his hair, "What's wrong huney?" "Your son hates me and its all my fault," said Legolas, his voice muffled by his arms. Mimi gently lifted his face up to her's, "What happened?" she asked as Legolas sat up and beckoned her beside him. Sitting down she took his hands. "I went to the graveyard and told Orlando we were worried about him. Then I told him that he needed to let Damien go and maybe look to Connor but it all came out wrong. We sort of argued and I told him to choose because we didn't have much time left. I just have this terrible feeling that I've hurt him too deeply to be forgiven. I'm so useless at this father business, I can't get anything right," said Legolas turning his face away. Mimi pulled him against her and hugged him, "You daft fool," she said kissing his hair, "If you knew the number of blazing rows Orlando and I have had over the years over things far more trivial than that, you'd think us insane. Do you want to know what the problem with our son is?" "What?" said Legolas looking up at her. "He's far too much like his father. He can't accept advice even when he knows its for the best but he soon sees that the advice is right. Give him time Angel, he'll be your best friend again by this evening, I can guarantee it." Legolas pressed his face to her shoulder, letting her heavy perfume drown his senses, "You're so annoying, do you know that?" he said, "You're always so God damn right." Mimi laughed, "Its part of my charm. I'll go and get cleaned up and we'll head out for lunch, my treat." Legolas looked up at her, "You're far too good to me Mellamin. I don't deserve you." Mimi kissed him softly, "Yes you do, you're far too gorgeous to belong to anyone else. Come on my darling, time to hit the town."
Orlando glanced at the letter in his hand, sighed deeply and pressed the inter-com button. "Hello?" came a voice from the speaker. Orlando nearly ran but he forced himself to stay, "Hey Connor, its Orlando." "Hiya Orli, come on up." The door clicked unlocked and Orlando went inside. He climbed the stairs to Connor's door and tapped softly on it. It opened and Connor beckoned him inside, "This is a nice surprise. Its unlike you not to ring first," he said a sweet smile accentuating his features and forcing Orlando to look away, "I'm afraid the place is a bit of a mess." "Its no worse than mine," said Orlando moving to the window and staring out of it." "Oh yeah the big move. How's everything going? You're Mum seemed frantic last time I was over. Do you want a drink?" "No thank you, I'm fine," said Orlando. Connor stared quizzically at his back, "Is there something wrong Orlando? You don't sound very happy," he said. "I've got a lot on my mind at the moment. A lot of decisions to make." "I understand," said Connor, "This move must be pretty scary for you, what with leaving the country and all. You know if you ever need to talk I'm a great listener." Orlando tensed as he felt Connor's hand light on his hip. Turning, he pulled the tattered letter from his pocket, "Its not the move that's bothering me, its this." Connor took the letter and scanned it, "I thought you said you didn't get this," he said swallowing hard, "You said it must have got lost in the post." "I lied," said Orlando walking away, "I've had it since I got back from Gon...Norway. I just didn't have the confidence to talk about it so I denied getting it." "So why admit it now?" asked Connor. Orlando laughed weakly, "My Dad gave me a good kick up the arse earlier, showed me I need to learn to live again before its too late." "Too late?" said Connor, "Oh God you haven't got..." "AIDS? No, but when I move away we'll lose contact." He felt two hands on his shoulders, "No we won't," said Connor, "We can write, email, even ring eachother occasionally, its not as if you're moving to Mars." "I might as well be," said Orlando. Connor turned him to him, "What do you mean Orlando? You're starting o confuse me." "There are things you don't know about me, things you wouldn't understand," said Orlando finally finding the confidence to look into Connor's dark eyes, "I'm not like most people." "I could have told you that," said Connor pulling him to him. Orlando pushed him away, "I don't mean like that. I'm...I'm different...I'm. Oh fuck this you wouldn't understand," he said turning away. "What are you talking about Orlando? Why have you come here? I can't take this torment for much longer. I love you okay and I..." "What did you just say?" said Orlando turning back to him. Connor's eyes were full of tears, "I love you." Orlando stood silently, his eyes holding Connor's. Connor averted his gaze and shook his head, "For fuck's sake say something. Don't do this to me." "I've often dreamed of you saying that to me," said Orlando, "But I never thought that it would sound that wonderful," Taking his hand he drew him close, "Kiss me!" "What?" "Kiss me Connor, like I dreamed you do." Connor reached up and took Orlando's face tentatively in his hands. He kissed him, softly at first, scared of the emotions stirring inside of him. Orlando pulled him against him, his arms tightly encircling Connor's waist as he captured his lips fully. When they parted Orlando's breathing was ragged and shaky. "Did that really just happen?" asked Connor wishing Orlando would open his eyes and look at him. "I'm not sure," whispered Orlando, "I don't know if I'm dreaming again." Delicately brushing his lips, Orlando enticed Connor back to him, feeling him shudder with longing in his arms. "Now I know I'm not dreaming," said Orlando finally opening his eyes, their brightness restored. "Does this mean I can finally tell everyone you're my boyfriend?" said Connor curling Orlando's hair around his fingers. His face fell as Orlando shook his head, "You won't want to. We're never going to see eachother again when I've gone." "Never's too strong a word, you taught me that. Besides, not all long distance relationships fail," said Connor holding Orlando's hands tightly. "You don't understand Connor. I'm not moving to Norway. You'd better sit down, there's something I have to tell you," said Orlando guiding Connor to the sofa and sitting him down, "Now what I have to say is pretty unbelievable but I want you to listen to everything before you speak, okay?" Connor nodded, his eyes betraying the fear within him, "Okay." "Well firstly, my name isn't Orlando Tolkien, that is merely my human name. My name's Lorindol Naryalin, Prince of Greenwood the Great." Connor looked bemused, "Are you mucking about? That's..." Orlando placed a finger to his lips and then kissed him softly, "You promised you wouldn't speak. Yes, Greenwood the Great or Mirkwood as its known these days, is a place in my Mother's books but its also a real place. Middle Earth exists. Its where I've been and where I'm going in two weeks, forever. My Father wasn't just the inspiration for the elven prince of the Fellowship, he is that elven prince, I'm an elven prince. I never knew my Father, not until recently but now I want to share my story with you, if you'll listen." Connor scanned Orlando's face, unsure of how to take such a revelation, "Okay, I'm listening."
CHAPTER SIXTEEN.
"I don't think I'll ever have to eat again in my life," said Legolas rolling onto his back and staring into the clear blue sky, "I'm stuffed." Mimi ran her hand along his chest and onto his shoulder, her face buried in the soft grass of Hyde Park, "Well if you hadn't been such a pie at the restaurant you wouldn't be so full," she said, "How do you eat that much and stay so slim?" "I get far to much exercise!" laughed Legolas, "I'm going to miss this place." Mimi pushed up and rested on her elbow, "I wonder what Rose is doing?" she said. Legolas traced a line down her cheek with a fingertip, "Well that depends on how prim and proper Boromir is. You never know, we may be grandparents in waiting when we get home." "I sincerely hope not," said Mimi, "I'm far too young to be a grandmother." "Well you can be Middle Earth's youngest and sexiest," said Legolas, "Think about me. I've only just gotten used to being a father, let alone a grandfather." Mimi lay against him, "Its so strange. I still see Rose as a little girl but in just over two years she'll be the age I was when they were born. Do you know in December it'll be our twenty-first wedding anniversary?" "You're joking!" cried Legolas, "It doesn't seem two minutes since we were beside Nimrodel, making our promises. Did we really get married after only two months together?" "Uh-huh. You proposed when we reached Lorien and married me that night," said Mimi. "Talk about impulsive," said Legolas, "But I wouldn't change it for the world." "Good," said Mimi kissing him.
"So that's my story," said Orlando staring out of the window to the street below, "My Mama's books were about a real event and I'm a child of the Fellowship. So you can see why we can't be together, once I return to Middle Earth I don't intend to come back again." Connor was silent and all Orlando could hear was the thumping of his own heart as it beat against his chest, "You do believe me don't you? Every word was the..." "Amin mella lle Lorindol," said Connor. "Excuse me?" "Amin mella lle," said Connor wrapping his arms around Orlando's waist, "If I remember rightly, that's how you elves say 'I love you'." Orlando laughed and reached up to Connor's cheek, watching their faint reflection in the window, "You learn fast. So you believe me?" Connor pressed his lips to Orlando's neck, "I always knew there was something magical about you. You're far too good looking to be human...Take me with you?" Orlando turned to him, "What?" "Take me to Middle Earth with you, I'll follow you there. We could be together Lorindol..." "Huney, its still Orli." "Okay...Orli...we could be together, forever in your world. When I read your Mama's books I always wondered what it was like to ride horseback across the Etten Moorlands and be a member of the court of Gondor. I want to go with you," said Connor smiling shyly as Orlando pushed his curls back from his face. "You'll have to leave London behind, we won't return." "I understand. I know I love you and I'm not going to let you leave me. I'll even call you Your Highness if you want." Orlando laughed, "I bet you would you kinky bastard," he said kissing him, "Amin mella lle Connor. Come on, we need to talk to my Father, I'm afraid his word is law." Taking his hand he led him to the door. "Wait! Orlando!" "What's the matter?" "Are we officially together now?" asked Connor looking down at their entwined fingers. Orlando raised his hand his lips and kissed it, "Of course we are. Come on. Let's get out of here."
"We should head home Angel," said Mimi as she felt the shadow of a cloud pass over her. "I guess. It looks as if it might rain soon," said Legolas sitting up and pulling on his shoes, "What do you say to getting a video out and crashing on the sofa with some of that great French wine you have in the basement? Before parenthood resumes." He helped Mimi to her feet. "Why not! Orlando could well be at home when we get there though." "No doubt he'll still be acting like an orc with a sore head," said Legolas brushing the grass off his trousers. Mimi laughed, "Legolas Greenleaf you do come out with the strangest things at times." "This coming from the woman who didn't know elves were immortal." "Do you want a slap?" "Miranda! We're in public, behave!" Mimi's eyes widened with laughter and shock, "In your dreams Your Highness! For that comment I hereby forswear your bed." "Not a problem, we're sleeping in your's at the moment," said Legolas pulling her too him, "Forget the video! Let's just go home!"
"Typical, no-one's bloody home," said Orlando as he led Connor into Minas Mirkwood. "This place looks like a bomb's hit it," said Connor glancing round the front room. "Organised chaos. Mama's sending most of our stuff to charity shops because we can't take it with us." "I suppose I'll have to put my place up for sale too, if your Father says I can come. Do I have to call him Your Highness now I know?" Orlando shook his head, "Just call him Legolas instead of Laiqalasse, he hates his real name and only goes by it so people don't instantly associate him with the books. He's only a prince in name really now anyway. His family moved to the havens of the West and the citadel of Elbereth is no more. You do realise we won't be able to tell your family where you're going, we don't want the whole world finding out about the portal." "Don't worry. I don't have any family. I'm an only child and I haven't spoken to my parents in three years, they disowned me when I came out." "Oh huney I'm sorry." "Hey, its old news. I've got what I want now," said Connor hugging Orlando tightly. "Orli, baby? Are you home?" came Mimi's voice as the front door opened. "We're in here Mama." "We? Do we have guests?" said Mimi appearing in the doorway, "Hello Connor. How are you?" "Fine thanks Jane...I mean Mimi." Mimi smiled and looked over to her son, "Someone's been telling tales I see. Angel?" "Yes darling?" called Legolas from the hall. "I believe our little secrets out." Connor tensed as Legolas appeared in the doorway. "Indeed," said Legolas, "I hope the news wasn't too shocking for you Connor." "No Sir, I mean Your Highness, I mean Legolas, I mean..." "Its just Legolas, Connor, nothing more. I haven't changed who I was since we last met so, unless you are a minion of Sauron, you have nothing to fear from me." Orlando took Connor's hand, "Mama, Papa, there's something we need to tell you," he said. Mimi glanced up at Legolas, smiled and returned her attentions to her son, "Go on." "We're together, Connor and I and well..." "Well what Orli?" said Legolas. "He wants to come to Middle Earth with me and I want him to but I knew I had to ask you so we came here to ask and please don't say no because I don't know what I'll do!" said Orlando not pausing for breath. "Orli! Orli! Slow down, you're going to give yourself heart failure," said Legolas stepping passed Mimi and walking over to Orlando. Connor shrank back. "I'm not going to bite, you know," laughed Legolas. "Don't believe him Connor," laughed Mimi, "I'll put the kettle on." "Sit down Connor," said Legolas, "Let's go through this slowly. I take it Orlando's told you everything about Middle Earth?" "Well not exactly everything but enough, the important stuff," said Connor. "You do realise once we go we won't return, you'll have to remain in Middle Earth your whole life." "I know and I want to. I want to be with Orlando...Lorindol..." "Orlando," said Legolas. "Right. I want to be with Orlando and if it means going to Gondor, or Rivendell, or anywhere else, I'm going." "You seem quite determined," said Legolas. "I am Legolas, Your Highness, I really am." "Then you may come but on one condition." "What? I'll do anything." "You stop with this Your Highness business. Its driving me mad!"
"This has been the shortest fortnight of my life," said Connor as he, Orlando, Mimi and Legolas stood, laden with bags, in front of the alleyway wall. "These clothes feel weird, they're so light." "You'll get used to them," said Orlando taking his hand as the moon began to rise, "Are you sure you want to do this?" The Ithildin gate appeared in front of them. "I'm sure. I can't let you leave me. I just can't get over how different you look with that bow and arrow job over your shoulder." "Its needed. Things can get a bit hairy at times," said Orlando adjusting the straps of his quiver. The gate shone brightly. "Perhaps you'd like to open the gates for us Connor?" said Legolas. "Okay, why not?" said Connor pressing his hand to the central star, "Err, Legolas? What's the password? I've forgotten." Orlando lay his hand over Connor's, "It friend in Elvish...Mellon." Connor sprang back as the door opened before him into the beautiful green of the Shire, "Oh my God in Heaven above!" he exclaimed staring wide-eyed at the sight. Legolas and Mimi stepped through and Orlando passed a couple of large trunks to them. He turned back to Connor, "Come on huney, its time. Say goodbye to London." Connor took Orlando's hand, "Okay. Bye bye London." He stepped through with Orlando and the doors closed behind him and disappeared, "This place is beautiful!" he said taking in every detail around him. "You haven't seen anything yet," said Legolas, "You guys wait here, I'll go and buy us a cart of some sort to put this lot in and collect Descaminord and Loci from the stables in Hobbiton, I shan't be long." He whispered something to Mimi and she nodded. "Elbereth Gilthoniel go with you," she said as he climbed down the slope and wandered off down the road, leaving the others with the bags. Mimi turned to Orlando, "Be on your guard darling. Your Papa says there's a slight threat." "Its very small," said Orlando, "But I feel it. Its no biggie though." Mimi smiled, "Happy to be back?" she asked. "Cormamin glina tiri," said Orlando sitting down on the soft grassy bank. "Huh?" said Connor. "My heart gleams brightly, its an elvish way of saying I'm happy," translated Orlando. "You don't always speak elvish do you?" "No," said Mimi, "Very rarely in fact, although Legolas and I do tend to speak elvish when we're alone or with our friends of the Fellowship, its more natural for us." "But you're not elven," said Connor, "Why would it be more natural for you?" "When we were on the Great Quest, with the Fellowship, I was touched by the elven magic of Lothlorien. When the realm of Caras Galadhon was there anyone who entered became fluent in Sindarin, but alas it is no more. Galadriel and Celeborn chose to take their people to the havens," said Mimi leaning against the tree. Connor looked sad, "You make it sound like the end of the world." "In a way it is. Legolas is now a mortal elf, he is not as he was when I first met him. Elves are the most beautiful, kind and natural people in the whole of Middle Earth. Their departure takes the world's heart with it, it was a sad day when they left the shores for Valinor." "So have all the elves gone now?" asked Connor his curiosity getting the better of him. "Most of them, a few remain. Those who have married mortals or been exiled from their kingdoms. Legolas, Arwen and Elrond have remained behind in Gondor. You'll meet Elrond when we get to Rivendell. We'd better get these cases down to the road, Legolas won't be long with the horses."
Legolas soon returned with Descaminord and Loci harnessed to a skillfully made cart, "Number nine bus leaving for Rivendell," he said pulling it to a halt beside them. "Ooh huney you should have been a comedian!" said Mimi helping Orlando and Connor lift the cases into the back. "Looks like you boys are riding in cargo," said Legolas as Mimi moved to the front and climbed up beside him. "There's plenty of space back here, we'll be fine," said Orlando handing Connor into the cart and securing the back. "All set?" said Mimi as Orlando sat down on one of the cases. "Ready and raring to go," called Orlando, "You should sing Papa." "Why not?" said Legolas clicking the horses onwards,
"The road goes ever on and on,
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the road has gone,
And I must follow if I can.
"Pursuing it with weary feet,
Until it joins some larger way,
Where many paths and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say."
"Oh why can't I get the hang of this?" groaned Connor kicking a leaf that had fallen into the cart in frustration. "Your pronunciation will come in time," said Orlando reaching out and taking his hand, "Elvish isn't something you can learn over night." "Why don't you leave the lessons for now Orli?" said Legolas over his shoulder as the cart continued to trundle along the road, "We've been travelling for eight days and I've heard you speak of little else. I'm surprised Connor hasn't begged us to take him back to London, you're starting to bore even me!" "I don't mind," said Connor, "I want to learn." "It will be easier when we reach Rivendell and you hear native speakers," said Mimi, "Hearing elvish spoken with a cockney accent isn't the same as hearing the music of a Quenyan or Sindarin tongue." "How rude!" exclaimed Orlando, "I'm as musical as any other elf. How long until we reach Rivendell?" Mimi laughed, "About five minutes!" "What?" "That's Rivendell, straight ahead." Connor and Orlando peered over her shoulder and saw the beautiful citadel, situated within the valley of two steep mountains and surrounded by a river and waterfalls. "Oh my God, its even more beautiful than I thought," said Orlando as the cart descended into the valley. "So this is where you guys met hey?" said Connor. "Yep, almost twenty one years ago," said Legolas, "When this was an elven city, now it is merely the summer home of my dear friend Aragorn. Look over there, I think they've spotted us." In the distance they could make out a group of figures, waving frantically. "I think I can see Rose," said Orlando standing up and waving, "Hey Sis."
They were soon at the entrance to the elven citadel. "We've missed you all so much!" cried Arwen running to them, "And we've... hello Connor, what are you doing here?" "I hope you don't mind Your Majesty but I've come to stay if I may?" "I'm lost, why would you want to leave London?" said Arwen looking up at him. "Well you see Orlando, no, no Lorindol and I, well we're..." "We're together aunt Arwen," said Orlando, "Connor's come to be with me." "Oh Orli that's wonderful," she said as he hugged her, "And you're perfectly welcome amongst us Connor, I hope you find Rivendell to your liking." Connor smiled, "Its lovely Your Majesty." "Please, its Arwen, we have no titles amongst family. Come we have to see you introduced to everyone."
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN.
The day was a rapid blur of welcomes, introductions and unpacking. Finally escaping the clutches of his younger cousins as they were whisked off to bed by Roxie and Pippin, Orlando led Connor through the corridors of Rivendell. "Today has been madness," said Connor leaning his head on Orlando's shoulder as they walked, "I still can't believe I'm here." "Neither can I," said Orlando, "I've heard Mama speak of Rivendell so often but I never imagined it would be this beautiful." They walked out onto an open walkway overlooking a stone balcony and the falls beneath. Laughter from below caught their attention.
"Legolas? Where are we going?" asked Mimi as she allowed him to lead her, blindfolded, onto the balcony. He turned her to face the view and unfastened the blindfold, letting it fall to the floor, "Do you remember here Mellamin?" he said wrapping his arms around her waist. "Oh Legolas," said Mimi turning to him, "How could I forget?" She kissed him, the sleeves of her elven gown glittering as she wrapped her arms around his shoulders. Legolas released her and kissed her forehead softly, "Renech i lu i erui govannem?"
"What did he just say to her?" whispered Connor to Orlando. "Do you remember when we first met? They're speaking elvish, I'll translate for you if you want." Connor nodded as Mimi laughed below.
"Nauthannem i ned ol reniannen," she said brushing Legolas' hair back from his shoulders.
"I thought I'd strayed into a dream," translated Orlando.
"Gwenwin in enninath," said Legolas, "U-arnecha neath isi celich."
"Long years have passed, you did not have the cares you carry now," said Orlando.
Mimi kissed him, "I don't carry them alone now, not now I have you by my side. I can't believe this is where it all started. If you'd been a few seconds later I would have been..." Legolas pressed a finger to her lips, "But I wasn't. You looked so amazing that night." "You just enjoyed the fact that I had barely nothing on!" said Mimi sitting down on the ledge. Legolas sat beside her, "Well it was a bonus," he said as she leaned against him, "A lot of things changed for me that night. I'd never defied Elrond before and I'd definitely never been in love." Mimi wrapped one of his delicate plaits around her fingers, "Neither had I. I love you so much Legolas." "I love you too Miranda," said Legolas taking her hand. Mimi giggled. "What?" "This is my pledge to you. I swear by the stars to love you forever, whatever comes between us. My heart, my body, my spirit I give only to you until the day I die. So is my promise to you," said Mimi staring into his crystal eyes. Legolas smiled as his heart skipped a beat and then leapt into his throat, "And to you I give my heart for all eternity. My soul, my love, my immortality, all are your's. With the spirit of Imladris and my ancestors as my witnesses, I am sworn to you and only you. So is my promise to you my sweet Miranda. This is our beginning and this time we shall never be parted until the day we die." Taking her into his arms, he kissed her, "My beautiful princess," he whispered holding her tightly. "Isn't this the part of the fairytale where you sweep me into your arms and take my to paradise?" asked Mimi nuzzling him playfully. Legolas lifted her, "It always was my favourite part of the story my darling." Mimi cried out as he span her around, "Anyone would think we were children again," she said as she stopped. Legolas didn't speak as he carried her back inside.
"That was so romantic!" said Connor leaning over the balcony ledge and staring up at the stars. He felt Orlando's arms wrap around him and he leaned back against him. Orlando's sweet kisses sent his heart rate into a frenzy. He turned to him and captured his lips fully. "There's one line of elvish I want you to learn by morning," said Orlando releasing him, "So you can tell everyone about tonight." "And what's that?" said Connor slightly confused. "Nardane lye kaime e i'ranquie en'ilye n'at," said Orlando. "And that means...?" "Entwined we slept in eachother's arms. I love you Connor."
The next morning Connor and Orlando descended the stairs to the main hall only to be met by screams and cries from below. Orlando, instantly reaching for his daggers, ran to the hall with Connor following warily behind. They relaxed as they saw the scene before them. "You bastard elf!" cried Aragorn throwing half a bread roll at Legolas who dodged it easily. "Missed me!" he crowed flipping neatly into a nearby chair. Orlando suppressed a laugh as he saw Mimi sneak behind Legolas, carrying a jug of water, "Oh Angel!" Legolas turned only to be drenched as Mimi threw the contents of the jug over him. "That is it, you die!" Mimi squealed and fled away, diving behind Frodo, "Don't let him hurt me." "He won't get passed me," laughed Frodo. Merry dragged Mimi from behind Frodo and pinned her down, "Got her Legolas." "Hey! You're meant to be on our team," said Aragorn, "Legolas doesn't have any team members." "And when did you introduce that rule?" said Legolas, "You just made that one up." "Who's King?" said Aragorn. "Who's up himself?" said Legolas hurling the remnants of something from the table at him. The strange grey goo caught Aragorn's arm as he tried to dodge it and Legolas burst out laughing. "Right! That's it!" cried Aragorn running over to Legolas and lifting him onto his back, "You're going in the river." "No! Aragorn, no!" cried Legolas still laughing as he tried to wriggle free, "Miranda help me." "No chance sunshine, you're on your own." "What have you five been doing?" exclaimed Arwen entering form another door and surveying the mess. "Food fight," said Merry, "Men and hobbits versus elves but I'm on the elven team. You could even up the sides." "A food fight?!" cried Arwen, "How old are you lot? Aragorn put Legolas down, there's a good boy." Legolas came back to earth with a bump, "Ai! That hurt you orc!" "Don't be such a baby," said Mimi pulling him to his feet. Legolas ran a hand through his soaked hair, "You still need punishing." "Easy!" exclaimed Merry pointing over to Connor and Orlando, "Children present." "I'm not a child Uncle Merry," said Orlando as he and Connor walked into the hall. "Uck! Enough with the uncle business, makes me feel old," said Merry. "Good morning darling, morning Connor," said Mimi, "Did you sleep well?" Connor looked over at Orlando, a wicked smile passing over his handsome features. He nodded, "Nardane lye kaime e' i'ranquie en'ilye n'at," he said. "Nardane lye kaime...?" said Aragorn, "Connor do you..." Legolas put a hand over his mouth to stop him speaking further, "Just don't speak Aragorn, you'll only embarrass yourself." The whole room filled with laughter as Legolas was again over Aragorn's head and under threat of a trip to the river. Rose's call stopped them, "Aragorn! Aragorn!" she cried. "What is it my dear?" said Aragorn setting Legolas back on his feet. "A group comes to Rivendell but I can't see who they are, its just a white blur." "Be on your guard. I'm not expecting guests and the royal court always travels under the banner of Gondor," said Aragorn, "Stay here." He left the room. Orlando took a dagger from his belt and handed it to Connor, "In case things get heavy okay. Don't run into battle, you're untrained." Connor's eyes were wild with fear at Orlando's words. Orlando managed a weak smile, "Don't worry huney. Mama and Dad will keep you safe," he said kissing his forehead. Looking back up he saw both Legolas and Mimi strapping their quivers to their backs, bows drawn and loaded. Mimi moved to the window and Legolas covered the main door. Two potentially lethal assassins, poised to strike. "Connor, Orlando, go to Arwen," said Legolas, "The last thing we need is a pair of rookies..." "Its okay Mirky," said Aragorn coming back into the room, "It is no enemy. In fact, they are very good friends." Orlando thought his father was going to faint as a beautiful elven woman, somewhere near sixty, walked into the room. Legolas paled and dropped his bow, "Mother?" "Oh my sweet Legolas, how I've missed you child!" cried the elven woman as she ran to him and hugged him tightly. "Oh my God! I can't believe its really you!" said Legolas crying into her shoulder, "Why did you come back? You'll become mortal." "I think I can explain that," said another, younger blonde elf entering with a male escort. Legolas looked up and then dropped to his knees. Arwen, Mimi, Merry and Frodo did the same. "Lady Galadriel?" said Legolas, "You too have returned?" "That I have," said the Lady walking to him and raising him to his feet, "But I'm afraid it is not under the best circumstances. Arise, all of you. What I have to say concerns all within these houses who has a connection to the Fellowship. Elemmire, Celeborn, with me. Do not fret dear Legolas, you shall have time with your mother after my council." Elemmire kissed her son and followed Galadriel from the room. "The council shall commence in an hour," said Aragorn as he followed them. Rose and Orlando ran to their mother. "Mama what's happening? I thought Lady Galadriel and Grandmamma went to the havens," said Rose. "So did I," said Mimi, "Legolas, darling, we must make ready for the council." Legolas shook his head, trying to bring himself back to reality, "Yes, we must. Come children, Connor you too. Miranda, stay close, I don't like the sound of this."
The council soon gathered, with all those of consequence present. Roxie, Pippin, their children, the hobbits and their wives made one party. Then Aragorn, Elrond, Arwen and Boromir another, and finally Legolas, Miranda, Elemmire, Rose, Orlando and Connor. Galadriel and Celeborn took the head of the council. "Friends, comrades, new companions. A great darkness has returned to Middle Earth, a darkness that has potential to be greater than anything Sauron could create," said Galadriel, "and worst of all, this darkness comes from one of our own but the fall was not unexpected. Several months ago my ring, Nenya, was stolen from my very hand and then, three months ago, an assault was made on the haven citadel of Mirkwood." Mimi felt Legolas' grip tighten on her hand. Galadriel looked mournfully at him, "the attack was made by a group of Moriquendi and led by Prime Minister Pheobus. All were murdered, including King Thranduil and his children." Legolas shut his eyes desperately against his tears. Mimi was soon on her feet. She held him close to her, "My poor Angel," she said crying herself. "Why would Pheobus want to kill Grandpapa?" said Orlando, "They were friends." Elemmire knelt before them and took Orlando and Rose's hands, "that's what Thranduil thought but he was wrong. Pheobus deceived us all. He demanded Thranduil send someone to collect Legolas and put him on a boat for Valinor so that Pheobus could become Narya's bearer. When Thranduil refused, Pheobus flew into a frenzy and sent his orcs to murder everyone in the city. I escaped with Ceinwyn but her grief consumed her, she had been weakened since the day she was separated from her brother. She died just as we reached Galadriel." Legolas gripped tighter onto Mimi's doublet as his heart broke for his beloved sister. "When Elemmire told me what happened, I realised that it was Pheobus who had stole Nenya. We knew he would next attack Gondor for Vilya and Narya so we made for there only to find you had come here," said Galadriel. "That's what the attack at the tavern was all about," said Aragorn, "They weren't wraiths at all, just orcs with poisoned blades. But why attack the city and arouse suspicion when Pheobus could easily work in secret?" "My dear Aragorn," said Elemmire, "Pheobus had lost his mind! His desire for power has consumed him as it did Saruman so long ago. He just wanted to...to try..." Rose wrapped her arms around the elven queen, "Its okay Grandmamma." Orlando joined her, "Please don't cry, you're safe now." Elemmire smiled, "You two are such precious jewels, my sweet grandchildren. Legolas, Miranda they are such wonders." "I know," said Legolas wiping his eyes on his sleeve, "Finally everything falls into place. The attack, the ring, the messages at Gondor. It was him all along." "Very good Laiqalasse," came a sneering voice from nowhere, "Took you long enough but then you always were rather slow on the old uptake." "Pheobus!" hissed Legolas getting to his feet, "Show yourself or are you too much of a coward to fight fairly?" "Dear me, temper, temper! I see we inherited Papa's short fuse. I hope poor Mimi doesn't bear the brunt of it, you wouldn't want to hurt such a pretty thing. When I heard you'd returned to us Mimi I couldn't possibly not say hello. Wasn't it just outside where we first met? You and I have so many wonderful memories together, do you remember our first time darling?" said the voice still not taking form. Legolas held Mimi tightly as she tried to resist the tears that resulted from old wounds so frighteningly reopened by a few mere words. "And now I see we have some new friends. Your daughter is quite a beauty. I'd keep an eye on her if I were you," sneered Pheobus. Boromir was soon by Rose's side, "Just try anything you animal and you'll have problems." "Ah the young Boromir. Named after the hero...no, sorry, I mean the traitor of the Fellowship. I see I may have to bring you down a peg or two." "You can't win Pheobus," called Legolas, "We're united, a Fellowship and we can defeat your darkness the same way we defeated Sauron's." "The warrior prince speaks, and I thought you'd given that up for romance," said Pheobus, "You and Mimi still haven't lost your spark. The behaviour at Gondor was quite interesting to say the least." Mimi tensed in Legolas' arms. "Its okay Miranda, he can't hurt you," whispered Legolas. "Oh but you're wrong because I can hurt her, I just choose not to. Your children are far more appealing, well Rose anyway. The boy must be a crushing disappointment to you but that's the trouble with elven and mortal unions, they create such strange beings." "Touch my children and you'll pay dearly," said Legolas, his voice so cold that it frightened even Mimi who he still held warm and protected in his arms, "they've done nothing to you." "Actually none of you have done anything I'd hold a particular grudge over, I just like to see you suffer, I'm doing this for kicks. Well gotta go, you know what its like, evil moriquendi lord always busy, busy but don't worry, I'll be in touch very soon. Sleep tight." An oppression seemed to lift from the air as the voice faded away to nothing. The group was still and silent for a moment, the shock of everything overwhelming them all. Finally a voice came from and unexpected corner, "You have to fight back," said Connor getting to his feet, "You cannot let that thing beat you down." "We cannot fight an enemy that we cannot see," said Aragorn, "This is beyond anything we've ever faced." "Really? Surely it is the same as what you did before only this time the stakes are higher. You fought for Middle Earth against Sauron and I know I didn't see it but I read Lady Miranda's stories and when I took on your role in Orlando's play I learnt what it felt like to be part of such a great thing. Pheobus is merely an elf, okay so he has Nenya but you have Narya and Vilya and most importantly, eachother. Pheobus is one mind working alone but here stands a potential army. For God's sake you fought for your children twenty years ago, now let your children march with you against this new enemy. I know I'm new to this world but I've seen love here, determination, friendship. You've triumphed once and you can again and I intend to be part of it." "That goes for me too," said Orlando coming to his side. "And me," said Rose. "I was named after a hero of the Fellowship and I intend to honour that. I'm in," said Boromir. "I'm not running from a fight either," said Thomas, Pippin's eldest. "Well that's a mini Fellowship," said Orlando, "Now we wait for those who fought before to show us the way." The council was silent, shocked by the courage and determination of their children. Rose walked over to Legolas and knelt before him, "Your Majesty, King of Greenwood the Great, we beg for your aid," she said solemnly. "King?" said Legolas realisation dawning on him. He turned to Mimi for reassurance but she curtsied low before him. "Miranda don't!" he said looking close to tears. Mimi looked up at him, her eyes burning with a fire he had only seen once before, at the battle for Mount Doom, "Your Majesty, I follow your bidding. If you choose to lead our forces against the enemy I shall stand beside you," she said. Legolas raised her to her feet and then Rose, "For what he did to you," he said kissing Mimi's forehead, "And for the future of my children, I pledge myself to the Fellowship. You have my bow." Aragorn took Arwen's hand and they stepped forward, "Well the King of Gondor will not be outdone by the King of Mirkwood," he said with a smile, "Count me in. You have my sword." "I'm hardly royalty," said Pippin stepping forward, "But hey, for the Shire." "And Pip goes nowhere without me," said Roxie. "Or me," said Merry pushing into the group. "I said no more quests until Mimi tumbled back into the Shire," said Frodo, "But I think stepping equates to tumbling." "And you need someone to look after you Mister Frodo and I have to say, adventure's been on my mind since Mimi returned," said Sam coming to Frodo's side. Elrond got up and joined the group, "I missed out on all the Fellowship antics last time," he said, "I don't plan to again." "The Fellowship is set," said Galadriel, "The children join their elders against a new darkness. Now we wait for Pheobus' next move. Make sure Mimi, Legolas and Elrond are kept under close guard, they shall be prime targets for any attack. Be on your guard everyone." With that the council disbanded.
Legolas, Mimi, the twins and Connor went off with Elemmire and spent the rest of the day recounting the passed twenty years. The twins instantly loved their Grandmother and she loved them dearly. Even Orlando's relationship with Connor gained her total approval. As day moved into night, Elemmire began to tell her family tales of Legolas' younger life, something he found quite embarrassing. "And you know what?" said Elemmire as her story came to an end, "He got so drunk, when we found him he was lying in a ditch with half of Mirkwood knotted into his hair. Needless to say he suffered terribly the next morning." "Mother!" hissed Legolas as the others burst out laughing. "Oh my dear children," said Elemmire kissing Orlando and Rose, "When I hear your laughter you remind me so much of when your Father was a boy. He and his sister were such a pair, always in mischief. They'd either be terrorising the cook or their father, my dear Thranduil." She turned to Legolas and took his hand, "Had your father lived my darling he would have told you how sorry he was for what happened at Elbereth. Had he seen the children...well we cannot dwell on the past, we have such young lives to look forward to now. I dare say I have four grandchildren rather than two, for through my dear Lorindol and Namarie I have gained both Connor and Boromir." Connor smiled shyly, "Do I call you Grandmamma now then?" he asked. Elemmire laughed, "Why not?" she said hugging him, "You're such a sweet boy." "Hey, hey, hey Grandma, don't you be flirting with my boyfriend!" said Orlando. "Oh Lorindol!" exclaimed Elemmire, "I'm far too old for that. Besides, I don't think I'm his type." Their Grandmother's playful wink sent the children into giggles. "I think its time we let your Grandmother get some sleep," said Legolas getting to his feet. "Oh Legolas you always were to fussy over me, I could stay up for hours," protested Elemmire. "Mother, its late and you've had a long journey today. We'll see you in the morning," said Legolas kissing her cheek. "Oh alright," huffed Elemmire hugging him, "Goodnight darling. Goodnight Miranda." "Goodnight Elemmire," said Mimi joining Legolas by the door. "Now let's see if I can hug all three of you at once," said Elemmire turning to the children, "Goodnight, goodnight, goodnight," she said kissing all three. With final farewells they went their separate ways.
Legolas and Mimi went to their room. Two guards stood faithfully by their interior door. They stood to attention as the couple entered. "I'm not sure I like all this guard business," said Mimi locking the door, "Makes me feel like a prisoner." She turned to see Legolas standing with his back to her, staring at the heavy drapes that covered the balcony window and doors and hid the two other guards outside. "Are you okay Angel?" Legolas choked back a sob, "Not really," he said weakly. Mimi walked over to his and hugged him. He fell to his knees and clung around her waist, crying into the folds of her doublet. Mimi stroked his hair, trying to comfort him, "Hush, hush. Oh my poor love, I'm so sorry." "He killed my family Miranda and I never had the chance to say goodbye or tell them I loved them. And Ceinwyn, my beautiful, beautiful sister. She died because he broke her heart, he killed the only people she loved and the worst thing is that I never felt it. I never felt the loss, never felt her pain. What kind of a brother am I when I can't even hear my own sister's cries?" Mimi choked back her own tears as she felt his suffering, "Oh Legolas..." "I never had the chance to see my Father again, to show him our children. I know I said I couldn't forgive him for what he did to us but I thought if there was a way for him to see Orli and Rose he'd see our union had created such beautiful beings and..." Mimi raised him to his feet and kissed him softly. "Don't think of what might have been Legolas," she said loosening the clasps of his doublet and slipping it off his shoulders, "It will only make the pain worse, I know, I've been there." She sat him down on the dresser chair and began to gently unplait his hair, "When my parents died I was just a kid but I kept thinking what if I'd done this or that, would things have been different and I just worked myself into this terrible system of self punishment when the things that happened weren't through my fault. I know I didn't really know your family but they would not have wanted you to be sad or to grieve. It may sound stupid now Legolas but I've experienced the pain you're going through and I've learnt to live each minute as my last because of it. You won't have to endure this alone Angel. You have Elemmire, the children, our friends and you have me. I love you so much darling and I won't let you suffer through it alone. If you ever need a shoulder to cry on or just someone to scream blue murder at, I'll be there and I'll take it. Do you understand me?" Legolas got to his feet, pulled Mimi to him and kissed her, "what would I do without you Mellamin?" he said burying his face in her hair. "Now a what would is the same as a what if and I'm having none of that in my family Mister Greenleaf," said Mimi lifting his face to her's and wiping the tear stains from his cheeks, "You don't have to do without me because I'm going nowhere. Let's get some sleep hey? Tomorrow's another day and we have work to do." She began to move away but Legolas drew her back into his arms, "Miranda?" "Yes darling?" "I love you, you know that don't you?" said Legolas tilting her face to his. "Of course I know you silly thing! I love you too," said Mimi nuzzling against him. "I would wish for no-one else to be my queen," said Legolas kissing her as the world and his pain disappeared around him.
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN.
Several months passed solemnly in Rivendell and Gondor. The deaths of the royal family were mourned at a quiet ceremony for only those who were close to them. Equally quiet was Legolas and Miranda's investiture as the new king and queen. Everyone's comfort came from the children. They were seen as the future and a reason to fight on for Middle Earth. As December drew nearer Orlando and Rose planned a celebration for their parents' wedding anniversary. All the preparations were conducted in secret and this was aided as Mimi and Legolas travelled to Mirkwood to regain the lost city of Elbereth from the wood. They were accompanied by a great cortege of architects and labourers who would remain at the site to rebuild the city. Their return to Gondor was much celebrated and they thought nothing of anymore parties to come.
Legolas' kiss woke Mimi as the day of their anniversary dawned. She stirred and slowly opened her eyes, "Hey Angel," she said sitting up. She smiled as she saw the fine breakfast set on the table on the balcony, "Isn't it a little too cold to be eating outside?" she giggled. Legolas held his hands up in surrender, "Don't look at me Mellamin," he said, "That, out there, is the handy work of our beloved children. Here, read this." He handed her a note written in slightly wobbly Sindarin script. "To Mama and Papa. You always say your romance started with tea on Papa's balcony so we thought you could start your special day with breakfast on a balcony. Enjoy. We love you, Lorindol and Namarie," read Mimi, "How sweet! Those two can really do some wonderful things when they put their minds to it. Its strange getting used to calling them by their elven names now." "Rose...sorry Namarie, said they felt more comfortable with elven names now they are officially heirs to the throne. I am still unsure how they will cope when the time comes though," said Legolas. Mimi wrapped her arms around his neck, "That won't be for a long time. Can we please forget all these political decisions for today? I want my Legolas, not the King of Mirkwood." "Well if you insist," said Legolas pulling the ties from his hair, "There, am I your Legolas now?" Mimi laughed, "You are my Legolas but not my Angel." "Then how, pray tell, do I transform myself into your Angel?" said Legolas. Mimi's eyes flashed with a familiar fire, "Firstly, lose the shirt," she said tugging at the buttons and slipping it off his shoulders. She ran her hands over his chest and pressed her lips to his shoulder, "Now put your arms around me and kiss me." She leaned towards him but Legolas pulled back, "Uh-uh my love," he said taking her hands, "Now I am your Angel I want my Miranda." "I am your Miranda," said Mimi innocently. "But before me I see the Queen of Mirkwood," said Legolas kissing the backs of her hands. "So how would you have me as your Miranda?" said Mimi as he lay beside her. He pressed his lips to the rose tattooed on her arm and pulled the strap of her nightdress off her shoulder. His azure eyes glittered with laughter, "To be my Miranda..." he said in between kisses, "...lose the nightdress!" "Be iest lîn Your Majesty!" giggled Mimi as he pulled the blankets over their heads.
As the sun hit midday there was a knock on Mimi's door, "Mama? Papa?" Legolas groaned, "I knew our peace wouldn't last," he said as he raised himself up on an elbow, "What is it Lorindol?" "Are you guys planning on making an appearance today? What have you been doing to my Mother all morning?" said Orlando through the door. "Watch it you!" said Legolas, "What goes on in this room is strictly between your mother and me." "Well I'm glad of that. Anyone else and I'd be worried," laughed Orlando, "Could you possibly drag yourselves away from your little love nest and come downstairs? We have a surprise for you." "We'll be there in a while," said Legolas. "Okay. Later." Mimi looked up at him through her heavy lashes, "Do we have to get up A'maelamin? I want to stay here with you all day," she said pulling him down into her arms. She kissed him, gently running her fingers down his back. He pulled away, "Miranda we can't!" he laughed as she pulled him on top of her, "Tonight. I promise." Mimi pouted prettily, "But I want you now!" "Don't look at me like that Miranda, you know I can't resist those eyes of your's. Besides, you've had enough of me already this morning." Mimi's eyes softened as she ran her fingers down his cheek, "That's impossible my love. I could never have enough of you." Legolas kissed her and then climbed out of bed, dressing once again in his discarded clothes. He turned to Mimi, "Are you going to get out of bed today at all? Put some clothes on woman! We'll have Aragorn banging the door down next." Mimi laughed, "I wish I had that white dress I wore when we got married," she said, "I've got so many lovely clothes but that was the most beautiful thing I've ever worn." Legolas bent down and pulled something from under the bed, "I know we said no presents Mellamin but I had a feeling you'd say something like that," he said handing her a box, "Open it." "Legolas, you shouldn't have," she said opening the box, "I...oh my God!" In the parcel lay an exact replica of her dress, "Oh Legolas, how did you do this? Its beautiful!" she cried hugging him. "Only the best for you my love. I had Galadriel help Aragorn's tailors create it. I want you to wear it today, it will make it seem like our wedding day again," said Legolas kissing her. Mimi smiled mournfully, "Now I feel guilty. You shouldn't keep buying me such nice things when I give you nothing in return." "I neither want or need any gifts. Having you beside me again is the only thing I need...along with mornings like the one you've just given me. Besides, I like spoiling you, you're my princess." "Actually darling, I'm your Queen!" "You know what I mean!" said Legolas.
They dressed and headed down into the main hall but it was deserted. Before they could turn to leave, their eyes were covered with blindfolds. "What the...?" cried Legolas. "Relax Papa, its us," said Orlando as he and Rose fastened the ties. "What is going on?" said Mimi as the twins led them away. "We have a surprise for you," said Rose. "We gathered that much," said Legolas, "How long have you two been planning this?" "Long enough," said Orlando. He opened the door and Legolas could feel the presence of a large crowd even though he couldn't see. "Can we take the blind folds off now?" asked Mimi. "Just a moment," said Orlando, "Now the tale of your elopement to Nimrodel is famous throughout Middle Earth but you've never been married under elven law, until today." They loosened the blind folds and they fell to the floor. Legolas and Mimi stood speechless as they stared in amazement at their friends and the wedding altar set up where Aragorn and Arwen's thrones once stood. "You...you...oh my God...you want us to get married?" said Legolas. Orlando nodded. Legolas looked down at Mimi and smiled, "What do you say Mellamin? Do you fancy becoming Mrs Greenleaf? Officially?" Mimi giggled, "I suppose, if you proposed that is!" she said. "Propose? Okay," said Legolas getting onto one knee in front of her, "My darling Miranda, would you do me the honour of becoming my wife?" "Yes," said Mimi raising him to his feet, "Now get me down that aisle before I change my mind."
The service was brief but special. Once their initial giggles were out of the way, Mimi and Legolas took it seriously, exchanging their vows and accepting Galadriel's blessing accordingly. When the service was over they were ushered back to the great hall where an enormous banquet had been prepared for them. "Your Majesty," said Aragorn showing them to two chairs at the head of the table. "Oh Aragorn this is all too much!" said Mimi hugging him. "You two deserve it," said Aragorn, "You've worked so damn hard these passed few months, you need a good party. Happy anniversary my dear friends." "And who better to spend such a day with than my surviving brothers and sisters," said Legolas with a slight air of sadness, "Pheobus may have taken those of my blood from me but he cannot take my friends." "Do not think of such sad things today my dear," said Elemmire coming to his side and kissing his cheek. "Have you been eaves dropping Mother?" said Legolas. "What gave you that idea?" said Elemmire, her eyes sparkling with laughter, "I think I'm allowed to be curious about my son, especially on his wedding day." "Just ignore him Elemmire," giggled Mimi, "He's just getting old." "Old?" said Legolas, "Less of that you!" "Ooh have I started divorce proceedings?" said Elemmire as they sat down at the table. "Never," said Legolas taking Mimi's hand. "Romantic nonsense!" chirped Merry from slightly down the table, "You're far too soft hearted Legolas." "Be quiet, small thing! Or I'll have to come down there and sort you out!" retorted Legolas. "Is that a challenge?" said Frodo. "Mirkwood versus the Shire?" said Mimi raising an eyebrow, "Ooh it'll go down in history as the most hair brained war ever." "More like hair FOOTED war!" said Roxie. With that the table erupted into laughter.
Hours passed and the party continued well into the night. As the dance ended, Galadriel pushed her way through the couples to Mimi and Legolas. "Come to ask for your nephew's hand Aunt?" said Legolas. "Perhaps later my dear, I need to speak to Miranda." "Is everything okay My Lady?" said Mimi. Galadriel forced a smile, "Of course child, fear not. Its just a private matter. We'll be but a moment Legolas, your heart shan't be forced to pine for long." Mimi turned to Legolas, "Angel?" "Go on huney. I'll go and see the children," said Legolas. "And miss me?" said Mimi. Legolas kissed her, "Of course. Miranda I miss you when I blink!" "Oh please!" said Mimi laughing as she left the floor with Galadriel and headed into a quiet corridor. "What do you have to tell me Galadriel?" asked Mimi, "Why could Legolas not hear?" "I did not know how the news would be received by him considering the stress he's under," said the elven sorceress. "News?" said Mimi fear falling over her features. Galadriel took her hand, "Miranda, my dear, do you feel any different in yourself?" "I'm more tired than usual but that's just due to all the travelling and work Legolas and I have done since his coronation. He's as tired as I," said Mimi. "Your tiredness is on a different plain child. His cannot come from the same source as your's," said Galadriel. "Please don't talk in riddles," pleaded Mimi, "I'm scared you're going to say something I won't like." "I doubt it my dear. A mother is not usually upset when she hears she is pregnant." It took Mimi a moment to register her words but then her eyes widened in delight, "Pregnant? Me? Oh Galadriel you don't know how wonderful it is to hear such news! Legolas and I have been trying for a baby since we returned from London," said Mimi hugging her. "I take it that he shall take the news well then?" said Galadriel. "He'll be overjoyed," said Mimi, "But how do you know?" "You have had that look about you for nearly a month. You mortals are so open about your feelings that we elves know exactly what's going on even before you do," said Galadriel. "Then why hasn't Legolas realised?" "Miranda, please. He may be an elf but he's also a male. They don't vary between our peoples. They wouldn't know emotion if it jumped up and bit them on the arse!" Mimi laughed, "I don't know," she said with a sly smile, "Legolas is an expert at responding to mine." "That's obvious enough!" said Galadriel as they returned to the hall.
Mimi ran to Legolas and threw her arms around him, kissing him. "Whoa! Miranda," said Legolas as she released him, "What's got into you?" Mimi couldn't resist the irony, "You've got into me!" she laughed, "Oh Angel I love you." "Easy Tiger!" said Connor, "Bloody newly weds." "Say what you will Connor. Nothing will change my behaviour today," said Legolas, "Now Miranda my sweet, what are you talking about?" Mimi was about to speak but then looked down at Rose, Boromir, Orlando and Connor, "I'll tell you later," she said kissing him, "Right now I fancy a dance, something...elven!" Legolas was to the floor in a shot.
Finally leaving their friends to the party, Legolas and Mimi slipped away to their room. "What is it you have to tell me Mellamin?" said Legolas locking the door. "Come here," said Mimi beckoning him to her, "Now look at me and tell me if you see anything different." Legolas regarded her quizzically, "What are you talking about my love? You're the same as always, beautiful." "Galadriel was right, you males are useless. Okay I'll give you some clues," said Mimi, "Its little, very little at the moment. We have two already and..." She lay his hand on her stomach, "We've wanted one for ages." Legolas smiled, "You're not...? Oh Miranda that's fantastic," he said kissing her, "You wonderful, wonderful woman! How do you know? How far gone are you? Ed'i'ear ar'elenea! I'm going to be a father again. I love you, I love you." Mimi hugged him tightly, "Its what Galadriel wanted to see me about. I'm only a month gone so we need to keep it quiet for a while okay, its bad luck to announce it before the third month anyway," she said. "Keep quiet?! Oh dear you may have to gag me for two months. This is the best news I've had in ages," said Legolas, "I suppose this means I'm given up to celibacy for the next eight months!" "Oh no way Mister Greenleaf!" said Miranda, "It didn't stop us this morning." She leapt into his arms. "Whoa! Easy girl!" laughed Legolas, "Hey I think I might get you pregnant more often, I could get used to this!" he said carrying her over to the bed.
Eight months passed by in Middle Earth and the news of the impending birth was joyously welcomed. The Fellowship had travelled to Rivendell for the summer but two months before Mimi's child was due, Legolas was called away to Mirkwood to approve the latest developments at Elbereth. Mimi was forced to remain in Rivendell for fear that she may go into labour far from any settlements. It was a difficult parting for the couple as Legolas feared he may not return in time for the birth and Mimi loathed to spend any time out of his company. As another morning dawned, Mimi again woke alone. She glanced down at the empty space beside her and felt her heart sink once again. She ran her hand along the sheets and then pressed her face into Legolas' pillow but it was cold and brought her no comfort. She sat up and ran her finger over her wedding band, "Hurry home Mela en'coiamin," she said. She felt her child move inside her and lay her hand on her all too obvious bump, " 'Quel amnim little one," she said, "Do you miss your Papa too? He will be home soon, time enough to see you enter the world." She climbed out of bed and dressed. She stared at her reflection, sick of the frumpy maternity dresses her current condition afforded her, "I look like a beached whale," she muttered. She glanced down at her dresser and picked up the letter Legolas had sent her a week ago. She knew the words off by heart but she read it all the same;
"Darling Miranda,
How the days drag without you here my sweet! Every minute seems more like a year. How I wish I could be in Imladris with you and the others. Lorindol is welcome company of course but he can hardly make up for you. The city is beautiful, you'd love it. The architects have keep mostly to our plans but with a few structural alterations and barely any trees have been touched so the natural beauty of our realm remains undiminished. Hope the little one isn't keeping you up or beating you too much. Make sure you get plenty of rest, I know you say you are but you forget that I know you far too well. I can guarantee you haven't been sitting still or resting while I've been gone. Politics and the affairs of our state can wait, you and the baby are more important, besides, it will give Lorindol something to do when he gets home. I wish I was with you darling, I miss waking up beside you and being able to shower you with kisses when you wake. I shall try to reach home before the birth. I am scheduled to leave Mirkwood tomorrow so this letter should only proceed me by a day or two. Keep safe and make sure you rest well. Amin mella lle, Legolas."
Mimi held the letter to her chest and bit back her tears, "You should be home," she said picking up the framed polaroid that reminded them still of their younger care free days, "Oh Legolas how I miss you, please come home." Putting the photo and the letter down, she pulled on a cape and left the room.
Mimi had walked for several minutes until she heard a familiar call, "Mimi! Wait up!" She turned as Aragorn came up to her. " 'Quel amnim," she said hugging him. "Good morning. How's the little one? And you as well? You look upset," he said. "I'm fine, just tired and achey," said Mimi, "I was just going for a walk, I'd love you company." "As you wish Your Majesty," said Aragorn offering her his arm and heading towards the gardens. They passed several minutes in trivial conversation but Aragorn could tell from her voice that Mimi had other things on her mind. "Mimi? What is the matter my friend?" he asked. "Nothing," said Mimi shaking her head, "Its just...I fear Legolas will not be home soon enough to be at the birth and he really wanted to be there this time." She choked on a sob, "Oh Aragorn I miss him so much." "Hey Mimi don't cry, he'll be here, I know he will," said Aragorn hugging her. "You're probably right," said Mimi wiping her eyes, "I'm sorry. My emotions are pretty shot at the moment. I just miss waking up beside him, it sometimes feels..." "Like you're back in London alone, like you were with Lorindol and Namarie?" finished Aragorn. Mimi nodded, "I know its silly but the other night I had this dream that I woke up in that rusty bed in my horrible flat and he wasn't there anymore. I just want him with me." "He'll be home soon. You said yesterday that his last letter said he'd only be a few days," said Aragorn. "But I received that letter a week ago! I worry about him too, Pheobus is still a threat. His letters do bring me comfort though. When I read them I can hear his voice, as if he was reading them to me. They are trivial, merely professions of love and how he misses me, nagging me to rest, just Legolas but on paper. Sweet letters that fill my heart with love and my eyes with tears," said Mimi. "He is turning you into a poet," said Aragorn, "Legolas is such an old..." "Ai-ie!" "Mimi what's wrong?" said Aragorn as she cried out. She recovered herself, "Nothing. I'm just being internally beaten again. This little on...Ai!" she cried. "That wasn't a kick, that was a contraction," said Aragorn, "And don't try to tell me it wasn't." "It can't be, its too soon. Legolas should be here!" cried Mimi. "It looks like Baby doesn't intend to wait for him. Let's get you inside, I'll send for Galadriel," said Aragorn supporting her. "I don't want Galadriel, I want my husband!" said Mimi sinking to her knees. Aragorn knelt beside her, "I know my friend and he is with you, even if you cannot see him. I know his only thoughts are of you and the baby." Mimi held onto him and cried, "I'm frightened Aragorn. What if something goes wrong and he's not here?" "Nothing will go wrong. This is the most natural thing in the world for you and you shall have Arwen and Galadriel with you. Let's get inside." Supporting her round her waist, he led her into the building.
A cloud of dust surrounded two galloping horses as they were pulled to a halt by their elven riders. Legolas jumped down and turned to Orlando, "Oh how I've missed this place! We may call Mirkwood home but this place...this is my true home." "Papa, to you, home is wherever Mama lies beside you," said Orlando. "And I have no doubt the same applies to you and Connor," said Legolas watching his son suppress a smile, "Admit it Lorindol, you've missed him." "Of course I have, I love him, I..." "Your Majesty! King Laiqalasse!" cried a young elf maid coming out of the building at a run. "Slow down my dear," said Legolas, "And there is no need to shout quite so loud." "But it is Her Majesty, Your Grace," said the girl, "She is in labour." "Shit Miranda!" cried Legolas, "Lorindol, see to the horses. I must get to your Mama." He ran from the stables.
Rounding the corner on the bright corridor, Legolas ran straight into Aragorn who was pacing the floor frantically. "Whoa! What the...Legolas! You're here!" "Of course I'm here! Where's Miranda?" said Legolas unfastening his cape. "In there," said Aragorn pointing to the nearest door. Legolas handed him his cape, hat and daggers, "How is she?" "Still in labour. Don't ask me questions! Go to her!" Legolas needed no further prompting as he flung open the door and ran into the room. Mimi looked up as he ran in, "Oh my love!" she cried, "Angel I thought you weren't going to make it." He went to her and took her hand, kissing her, "You think I'd miss this. How are you?" "In pain," she said gripping his hand as another contraction tore through her, "It shouldn't be long now. I'm so glad you're with me." "So am I. I've missed you so much Mellamin." Mimi couldn't answer him.
Orlando and Rose had been outside Mimi's room with Aragorn for nearly and hour, "I hope she's okay," said Rose. "She's fine," said Aragorn, "She has your Papa with her." Orlando was about to speak when the sound of a baby's cry echoed from the room. They exchanged excited glances and waited impatiently for the door to be opened and for them to be beckoned inside. Arwen ran out of the room, "It is a girl! Mirkwood has a new princess!" she cried ushering them inside. Mimi sat on the bed, covered by the blankets up to her waist with Legolas beside her and a tiny bundle in her arms. She looked up and smiled, "Come and meet your new sister," she said. The twins ran over to their parents and stared down at the baby. "She's so beautiful," said Rose, "Her hair's really dark." "An Andalusian, like your mother," said Legolas. "What do you plan to call her?" asked Orlando. "I...oh God, we never decided on a girl's name," said Mimi. "I have one though," said Legolas, "Which I'm sure you'll love." "What?" said Mimi. "Let us call her Francesca, after your mother," said Legolas. Mimi smiled and kissed his cheek, "I adore it but may I suggest a middle name?" Legolas looked at her quizzically, "What do you have in mind?" "Ceinwyn," said Mimi softly, "To honour your sister." Legolas was speechless. His eyes filled with tears and the twins and all those present thought he would protest but then he managed to smile, "Could we? Ceinwyn would have loved that." Mimi lay the tiny child in his arms, "Then she shall be Francesca Ceinwyn Greenleaf, princess of Mirkwood." "What a beautiful name!" said Elemmire as she came into the room, "It has my blessing." She came over to the bed and sat down next to the twins, "What do you think of your new sister then?" "She couldn't be more perfect. A baby suits you Dad," said Orlando. Arwen laughed, "He's had enough practice with Boromir and Roxie's brood." "I was an over glorified babysitter!" said Legolas as Mimi lay against him. "You look exhausted Mama," said Rose. "I am," said Mimi, "Keep off the kid thing with Boromir for a while okay? Its exhausting work." "She won't stop practicing though!" said Orlando. Rose blushed so deeply it made everyone laugh. "You are very cruel to your sister Lorindol," said Aragorn, "I think we should leave your parents and Francesca alone for a while." With calls of farewell the room emptied. Mimi smiled as she watched her husband with their new daughter, "I wish I'd seen you like that with Lorindol and Namarie," she said as Legolas kissed the child's forehead softly. "I wish I'd been this way with them. I don't think I've ever seen anything so perfect, she's so tiny." The baby started to cry. "And hungry by the sound of things," said Mimi. "You'd better take over," said Legolas laying the child in her arms, "Will you want a nurse for her? Arwen had one for Boromir." "No, I'm a mother and I'll do everything that entails," said Mimi softly, "I couldn't part with her, even for a few hours." Legolas kissed her softly but Francesca began crying even harder. "Demanding isn't she?" said Legolas climbing behind Mimi and letting her lean back against him as the baby quieted, contented. "She takes after her Papa," said Mimi kissing his cheek, "Sing for us, I want her to know all your songs." "As you wish my love," said Legolas, "For my beautiful Francesca;
"When the cold of winter comes..."
CHAPTER NINETEEN.
Three peaceful years passed by and Pheobus' threat became a distant memory. Francesca grew and was loved by all in the palace. Legolas, Mimi and Orlando spent their time between Gondor and Mirkwood, visiting Rivendell in the summer. Rose remained in Gondor with Boromir and they were as close as Rose's parents had been at their age. Legolas and Mimi were loved in Mirkwood so much so that, to show their utter trust in the royal family, the people voted Orlando into the office of Prime Minister. It was late December and everyone was in residence in Gondor for a most joyous occasion. Mimi and Legolas walked through the corridors of Ecthelian, brushing the remnants of their daughter's wedding confetti off their heavy dress robes. Mimi, still quite emotional after seeing her daughter married to Boromir, snuggled closer to Legolas as a cold wind blew through the drafty palace. Legolas hugged her tightly, the sleeves of his robes making an extra layer of warmth around Mimi's shoulders. "Curse this weather!" he hissed, "I'm glad I left the fire going in our room, this place is worse than Caradhas." "At least we know both our elder children will be warm tonight," said Mimi nuzzling his neck. "I believe they have been for many moons Mellamin. This wedding was merely a formality brought about by Aragorn. If Namarie and Boromir had had their way I doubt there would have been one," said Legolas rubbing Mimi's hands with his own to warm them. "You think they would have been young and impetuous like us and run off to Lorien together?" giggled Mimi. "Darling it's the only way to get married," said Legolas leading her into their room and closing the door, "And I highly recommend it. Finally a fire!" "Weren't we supposed to fetch Francesca from the nursery?" said Mimi as she changed into her nightdress and came back over to Legolas. He wrapped his arms around her and buried his face in her hair, "I asked Susan to take her tonight. I want you all to myself, besides, you deserve a break from motherhood. You work so hard, I still think you should sign some of your duties over to Lorindol." "And I've told you that I don't want to. I'm your queen and I want the responsibilities that go with the post. You wouldn't know what to do without me anyway!" said Mimi sitting down on the recliner and letting him lay back against her. She stroked his hair with her fingertips, "Legolas, my love, are you happy?" "I couldn't be more happy," said Legolas closing his eyes against her, "Why do you ask?" "No reason. I suppose I just wanted an excuse to tell you how happy I am!" "Are we going to get soppy with eachother?" laughed Legolas, "I'd prefer other things." "Other things?" said Mimi innocently, "Whatever do you mean?" "Your words are sweet, Miranda but they do not make up for your other talents," said Legolas turning to her and lying against her shoulder, his hands finding their way beneath the soft chiffon of her nightdress. "Oh I understand," said Mimi, "You want me to sing for you. Very well my..." She was silenced as Legolas kissed her, "Say one more word and I'll introduce a treason law banning it!" he said. Mimi laughed and traced a pattern down his cheek with her fingertip, "Back onto politics are we?" "No we are not back onto politics!" said Legolas with a sigh as her evasion began to frustrate him, "I want you." "But I might want to discuss politics. I am, after all, Queen of Mirkwood and equally concerned with the running of our kingdom." Legolas got up and pulled her to her feet, "Right, that's it! You may be my queen darling but I am your king and your husband and I command you to forget subjects as boring as politics and kiss me." Mimi ran her hands over his shoulders, "Pulling rank on me, are you?" she giggled. "I'm pulling more than rank Mellamin, come here!" said Legolas sweeping her easily into his arms. The moment was interrupted by a knock on the door. Legolas broke away from Mimi's kiss, "If that's Lorindol with more government questions I swear to God he won't live until tomorrow," he hissed. "Just ignore him. He'll run off to Connor's arms soon enough," said Mimi turning his face back to her's. "Legolas? Miranda? Are you still up?" "Boromir?" said Mimi pulling her nightdress back onto her shoulders, "You'd better see what he wants." Legolas opened the door, "Aren't you meant to be with my daughter?" he asked with a smile, "You only have to ask my permission for her hand not anything else you know?" Boromir's face told Legolas this was no laughing matter. "Is something wrong Boromir?" "Is Namarie with you?" asked the young prince. Mimi came to the door, hurriedly dressed in her doublet and trousers, "Rose? No. I thought she'd be with you." "She said she had to talk to you. I just came to fetch her," said Boromir. Mimi looked confused, "We haven't seen her since the reception. Have you tried Lorindol?" "Not yet," said Boromir, "I'll go now." "Wait," said Legolas catching his arm, "I'm going with you, just give me a second." Legolas disappeared into the room and returned with his quiver strapped to his back and his bow in his hand. He handed Mimi her daggers. She looked up at him, "Angel?" "I don't like the sound of this Miranda. Its not like Namarie." Mimi took the daggers and followed Legolas and Boromir to Orlando's room.
Boromir knocked on the door but there was no reply. Legolas moved to the door, "Lorindol! Connor! Look if either of you are in there answer the door, this is important." There was a muffled conversation within and a moment later Orlando stepped out of the room, hurriedly fastening a robe around him, "Dad!" he hissed, "This is hardly a good time." Mimi giggled. "Lorindol have you seen your sister?" asked Legolas ignoring his son's blush. "Namarie? Take a wild guess as to where she is! She's probably shagging...hey Boromir...wait! You're meant to be with my sister...am I missing something here?" "Lorindol?" came Connor's voice from the room, "What's going on out there?" "Hang on a moment," called Orlando back, "Dad what's going on?" "I don't know. Get dressed and arm yourself, Connor too." "But Dad..." "Your sex life can wait! I have a terrible feeling." Orlando's face fell, "Now you mention it I've kept getting these telepathic kicks now and again but I was ignoring her," he said closing his eyes. He fell back against the door and opened his eyes, "Shit Rose!" He bolted back into his room. "About bloody..." "Shut it Connor and get dressed. Something's happened to Rose," said Orlando. Moments later both he and Connor emerged, roughly dressed and armed. "Fucking telepathy, wish I couldn't ignore her. She's screaming!" said Orlando bolting down the corridor. The others followed him as he led them down to the gardens. He came to the edge of one of the ponds and stopped. He bent and picked up a silver and diamond pendant. "Namarie's necklace," said Boromir taking it from him, "Namarie! Rose!" "Oh don't worry about all that screaming," came a mocking voice from the shadows, "It gives me such a headache and she can't hear you." "Pheobus!" hissed Legolas as the elven Prime Minister emerged from the shadows. "Hello Your Highness...oh no its Your Majesty now isn't it. What ever happened to Daddy dearest?" said Pheobus laughing, "Oh yes, I remember, I murdered him!" Boromir ran at Pheobus but, with a flick of his hand, the elven sorcerer sent a torrent of water from the pond to knock him back, "Don't try to be clever!" "Where's my daughter?" said Legolas. "You know, I've never understood why people ask that question in these kind of situations. Like I'm going to tell you! It would spoil my fun." Legolas took the chain from around his neck and held it out to Pheobus, "you want Narya, take it. Just give me back my child." "Again to easy," said Pheobus moving towards him, "If I wanted Narya I could take it but I have some business to deal with first. You see, a while ago now my feelings were so very deeply hurt by a mortal prostitute but I think darling Rose could put that right again," he said. "No!" cried Mimi, "Pheobus don't hurt her please! I beg you!" "What right have you to beg me for mercy? I sent you from this world but you insisted on returning. You are a fool to believe I would listen to your pleas," hissed Pheobus. "You said once you loved me," said Mimi, seemingly cool but Legolas could see her hands shaking, "Can you not find that love and spare my daughter?" "Any love I had for you Miranda is dead! Your daughter is mine!" Unable to resist her hate any longer, Mimi flew at him but he sent her down with a spell from Nenya, "Don't you ever learn?" "Don't you dare touch my daughter!" hissed Mimi getting to her feet. "Don't touch my daughter!" mocked Pheobus, "What will you do to me if I do? You're hardly a threat my dear. I have to go, I don't want to keep the fair princess waiting now do I?" In a flash a great pillar of water surrounded him and he was gone. As Pheobus disappeared a group of Moriquendi, twisted and sick from the evil that consumed them, came from the shadows and attacked the small band. Alerted by the cries and the noise of the ensuing battle, the palace guards were soon in the fray. Outnumbered by three to one, the Moriquendi were soon lying dead in the gardens of Ecthelian. "What were those things?" asked Connor pulling his dagger from a still writhing body. "Dark elves," said Legolas, "Elves taken by shadow but who are not yet orcs." Mimi fell to her knees beside her husband, crying into her hands, "what do we do Legolas? To think the fate that should have befallen me is now...I can't bear it," she said as he knelt beside her and held her to him, "She's just a child. She must be so frightened." "I swear we'll find her Miranda. We'll find her and Pheobus will pay for any crimes against her." The group turned as they heard the sound of running footsteps from the palace. Aragorn was first to them, followed by Arwen and Elrond. "What happened here? Are you guys okay?" Boromir ran to his father and hugged him, "Rose is gone," he cried gripping onto Aragorn's robes. "What?" said Elrond, "Gone? Gone where?" "She was taken by Pheobus," said Orlando barely resisting his own tears. "Pheobus!" hissed Elrond in disbelief, "But I thought..." "It would appear that we have been too complacent," said Legolas helping Mimi to her feet, "Assemble the Fellowship. Rose's life is in danger."
Roxie, Pippin, Thomas, Frodo, Sam and Merry were soon with the remainder of the Fellowship in the main hall, armed and confused. "What's happened?" asked Roxie taking in Mimi's mournful expression. Legolas, his remorse showing through despite his vain attempts to keep a brave face, took the front of the group, "Rose has been taken by Pheobus but we don't know where," he said, "Even with my offer to give him Narya in return for her safety he would not release her." "What can we do then?" asked Sam. "Unite Narya and Vilya," said Merry, "Surely together they are stronger than Nenya alone." "Stronger yes," said Elrond, "But too volatile. The elven rings can either be used alone or as a trinity. The two elements would not balance without Nenya." "Well then use them alone," said Frodo. "If we knew where Rose was, we could," said Legolas, "But we cannot do anything until then. Nenya's powers have been increased by Pheobus' dark magic, that's why he could use it to appear and disappear as the Ash Nazg once did for its bearer." "We can't just sit around and wait for Pheobus to tell us where Rose is," cried Boromir, "You heard what he said, what he plans to do. I won't stand by and let my wife be hurt by that creature!" "You think I want to stand aside and let him touch my daughter?" said Legolas. "Well I don't see you coming up with any plans to save her!" said Boromir. "Stop it the pair of you!" cried Mimi, "Getting at eachother's throats is the worst thing you could do for Rose. Have some sense. Jesus Legolas what is it with you and Boromirs? Where would Pheobus have his stronghold?" Legolas slipped his hand into her's and shook his head, "I don't know." "Well we can rule the havens out," said Orlando, "We know he can't go back there." "Mordor?" asked Connor. "No, too clichéd," said Roxie, "Pheobus would want to make his own mark and besides, Mount Doom would be active if evil had returned to the wastelands." "Where else could he go?" asked Thomas, "Mirkwood?" Mimi shook her head, "Our citadel would be too close, he would be noticed." "Lorien?" said Pippin, "That's been deserted for years." "Lorien is sacred elven land even without Caras Galadhron there, any evil and we'd feel it," said Arwen. "Well where else is there?" said Frodo, "The Shire!" "You could try Moria," said a deep, gravelly voice from the door. "Gimli!" cried Aragorn in disbelief. "I came to warn you," said the Dwarven lord, "But it appears I may have arrived too late. I know where that elf's stronghold is." "Tell us Gimli," said Legolas, "He has taken our daughter." "He is in Moria, at Khazad-Dum." "Khazad-Dum?" said Mimi, "But how do you know that? I thought you swore your people would never return there." "With the mines of Erebor completed and knowing that Gandalf had defeated the Balrog, our people decided to claim Dwarrowdelf back from the orcs and goblins. We sent scout troops but they found more than orcs. There are Moriquendi there, twisted, evil elves, worse than anything I've ever seen. Pheobus was at their head. That is where you will find Princess Rose." "Then that's where we'll go," said Mimi making for the door. "Miranda wait!" called Aragorn, "I know you want to reach Rose but the road to Moria is long and we must prepare." "But Aragorn..." "Aragorn is right Mellamin," said Legolas, "We'll do Rose no good if we run in there unprepared. Can we be ready by morning?" Aragorn nodded, "I'll see that it is so. We'll find her Mimi, I promise you." Mimi nodded and let Legolas lead her back to their room.
Opening the balcony doors, she walked out into the cold night and stared up at the stars. Legolas came out to her and wrapped a cape around her shoulders, "Come inside darling, you'll freeze," he said. Mimi choked back a sob, "Where is she Legolas? Where's our baby?" Legolas hugged her, "I wish I knew," he said his voice cracking with emotion. "She must be so frightened," said Mimi burying her face in his doublet. "She is strong, she'll fight Pheobus' evil. She has her mother's spirit. A si i-dhúath á-orthor Miranda. U or le a ú or nin." "I wish I could believe you," said Mimi letting him lead her back inside. Legolas took the daggers from around her waist and lay her down on the bed. Covering her with a blanket, he pushed her hair from her face. "Try to sleep my love," he said kissing her forehead, "We have a long journey ahead of us." "I can't sleep," said Mimi trying to sit up but Legolas pushed her back down. "Hush. Yes you can, you're tired," he said stroking her brow, gently he moved two fingers to either side of her head, "I'ared..." Mimi pulled back, "Don't even try any of that elvish voodoo of your's on me!" she said sitting up. "It will help Miranda." "I can't sleep! What if he's still around?" cried Mimi. "I'll stay awake," promised Legolas, "Please Mellamin, try to sleep, you'll only make things worse if you're tired." "How can you be so calm about all this?" cried Mimi pushing him away and getting off the bed. She stormed over to the corner of the room and lent on the desk. "You call this calm?!" said Legolas, his voice strained, "I'm not calm, I'm as petrified as you are!" Mimi's fingers brushed the delicate white rose in the vase beside their picture, "Oh Angel!" she cried turning back to him, her eyes bright with tears. She ran to his arms and held him tightly, "I feel so helpless." "I know," he said kissing her hair, "We have to be strong though, for Rose." Sitting her down beside him, Legolas wrapped a blanket around her. Mimi slipped her wedding ring off her finger and handed it to him, "Here, you'll need this." Legolas shook his head and placed it back on her hand, "Not yet," he said closing his hand around her's, "Keep it on for tonight." Mimi looked up into his eyes and caught the glimmer of what was in his mind, "We will both live through this Legolas," she said reaching up to his cheek. He pressed his lips to his palm, "Will we? I don't know if I have the strength to fight anymore. I thought we'd destroyed evil when Frodo threw the Ash Nazg to Mount Doom but now a new evil threatens my family again. Its just an endless cycle and I don't know if I can face it again." "That's not the Legolas I know talking," said Mimi holding his gaze, "The Legolas I married taught me that whatever the odds there is always hope and with hope there's strength. We can defeat this evil and we'll defeat another evil after that if we must. We don't fight for ourselves, we fight for our children and their's. When you took me up on Caradhas you taught me something, a song, that embodied all you ever gave me." "A song is just words Miranda," said Legolas turning his face away. "Not if they come for your heart. Listen to me now Legolas, learn from what you've taught others.
"May it be an Evenstar,
Shines down upon you,
May it be when darkness falls,
Your heart will be true,
You walk a lonely road,
Oh! How far you are from home.
"Mornie utulie,
Believe and you will find your way,
Mornie alantie,
A promise lives within you now.
"May it be the Shadows call,
Will fly away,
May it be you journey on,
To light the day,
When the night is overcome,
You may rise to find the sun.
"Mornie utulie,
Believe and you will find your way,
Mornie alantie,
A promise lives within you now."
Mimi kissed him softly, "A promise lives within you now Legolas, a promise you made the day you pledged your bow to the Fellowship." Legolas was silent for a moment and Mimi watched as a single bright teat rolled down his cheek and onto the sleeve of his robes. He turned back to her, "You're right Mellamin. I did make a promise. We will get through this." The door to the room opened and the couple turned to see their niece, Susan standing in the doorway with Francesca. "I thought you might want her with you," said Susan ushering the child into the room and closing the door as she left. Francesca ran to her parents arms, "Susie said Rose had gone away! Why has she gone away?" "Oh little one!" said Legolas hugging her, "She'll be home soon, Mama and I are going to get her tomorrow. You will have to be good for Grandmamma when we're gone." "I'm always good!" said Francesca, her cheeky grin so similar to her mother's, "Why can't I come too?" "Because its far away," said Mimi, "And Mama and Papa have to do a lot of work so we won't be able to look after you, that's why you have to stay here with Grandmamma." "Okay. Hug?" Mimi hugged her little daughter tightly, "How do you fancy sleeping in here tonight?" Francesca nodded. Mimi shifted closer to Legolas and they sat in silent reflection until their young daughter was asleep.
CHAPTER TWENTY.
"Get away from me you bastard!" cried Rose backing further away from Pheobus, her wedding dress tattered by the way the Moriquendi had dragged her through Moria. "Now, now princess, is that anyway for a woman of your status to behave?" said Pheobus, "I've held you here for ten days now and have I touched you? You have to realise by now that its not you that I want." "Want do you want then? My Mother? Is this all because she chose my father over you?" said Rose relaxing slightly. Pheobus laughed, "You're smarter than I gave you credit for. I want Miranda and I will have her and the most wonderful part is she's coming to me to save your virtue. Its quite touching really." "What makes you think you'll win?" hissed Rose, "You said yourself that my Father and Aragorn lead not only the Fellowship but also the army of Gondor against you. They're a powerful force. They have Narya and Vilya whereas you only have Nenya." "But they have pointless morals. They fight for eachother, watch eachother's backs. Their way of fighting is inefficient. My Moriquendi and the goblin and orc forces I have enslaved here know nothing of morals or teamwork. They are mindless killers and will destroy whom-so-ever I tell them to, without a thought for themselves or eachother." "You're sick!" hissed Rose looking around for something to throw at him. "No darling, I'm brilliant. Soon Daddy, Uncle Aragorn, precious Orli and Boromir and all the others will bring your mother to me and embrace their own deaths. But if you wish to believe they'll be all heroic and save you, you keep doing that. It's the only hope you have after all. Sleep tight Your Highness, only two more days until your sweet mother and father fall to my will. I think I might keep His Royal Majesty alive for just long enough for him to see me take his queen as my own," said Pheobus turning to leave. "You can't win Pheobus!" cried Rose at a loss for anything else to say. "My dear child," laughed Pheobus, "I've won already."
"How are you feeling?" asked Legolas coming into the tent he shared with Mimi, Orlando and Connor. The Fellowship was a day from Moria and Legolas and Aragorn had made the decision to close the days travels to rest. "Okay?" said Mimi toying with Orlando's hair as he lay with his head on her knees, "Have you fed Descaminord? How is he?" "He is fine but tired, I fear we may have pushed him too hard today." "Loci is the same," said Connor, "He was very slow for the last few miles. It felt at times as if he could sense the sadness of the group and was losing the will to continue." "It is like all living things," said Orlando, "Hope can sometimes be lost but the will of the group will pull Loci back, he will be fine by morning." "We should sleep," said Legolas as Orlando got up from Mimi and went over to Connor, "Boromir and Pippin keep watch tonight." Huddling closely for warmth the family fell into a fitful sleep.
"Rise and shine Your Highness," said Pheobus shaking Rose as she slept. She awoke and slapped him away. He grabbed her hands, "Uh-uh Rosalia. That isn't how we say good morning is it?" He kissed her fiercely. Rose tried to wriggle free but when that failed she kicked him hard in the stomach. He shrank back in pain. "Leave me alone!" she cried getting to her feet. Recovering himself Pheobus sent her back down with a slap, "You need to learn some respect!" he hissed. "Fuck off," said Rose rubbing her stinging cheek. Pheobus grabbed her round her neck and forced her down on the grubby mattress that served as her bed, "What was that?" he said. Rose gasped desperate, shallow breaths as his grip made breathing difficult, "Nothing," she managed to stutter. "Good," said Pheobus releasing her slightly, "You wouldn't want to upset me with Mummy and Daddy coming today would you? I might be forced to do something drastic." "My Lord," came the dreadful hiss of a Moriquendi as it entered the room, "The enemy approach." "Wonderful," said Pheobus pulling Rose to her feet, "We should go and welcome them."
Aragorn and Legolas sat together discussing their final tactics for the assault on Moria. "This isn't going to work Orli," said Connor as he sat sharpening the sleek elven blade he now favoured over his daggers. "We hardly have any other choices," said Orlando, "Papa and Aragorn are doing what they can." "I just think that we should try something more stealthy than...wait." "What are you thinking Connor? You've got that look about you," said Orlando watching as a plan formed in Connor's mind. "I've got an idea," said Connor springing to his feet and running over to Legolas and Aragorn. Orlando watched as he talked animatedly with them and then Legolas sprang to his feet and ran to Miranda, obviously telling her Connor's idea. Gradually Connor had collected Miranda, Legolas, Elrond and Roxie. He led them back over to Orlando, "What's going on Connor?" he asked bemused. "We're going to do a little play acting," said Connor proudly. "Play acting?" said Orlando his brain feeling twisted as he tried to figure out Connor's words. "Yep! Listen, Pheobus wants Mimi, not the rings, they're just a decoy that he thinks we believe. You follow?" said Connor. "I think I do," said Orlando, "Go on," "Well if he takes Mimi she's not as strong as say, Legolas, in battle right?" "Right." "So what if Legolas was to take Mimi's place?" Orlando ran a hand over his eyes, "Okay you've lost me...no, hang on, I get it. Connor that's brilliant! So who's masquerading as who?" "Legolas we shall change to Mimi as we change Mimi to Elrond. Then Roxie becomes Legolas and you become Roxie," said Connor. Orlando remained puzzled, "Okay, not what I had in mind but hey, so we have our cast. What happens next?" "To defeat Nenya we can use Narya and Vilya but they won't be effective unless we're close to Pheobus. Therefore Legolas, as Mimi, goes to Pheobus willingly. Pheobus won't recognize the switch until its too late because Moria is so dark. Legolas uses Narya against him and BANG! We win!" "Whoa! That's all very pretty on the surface but your forgetting Narya can't face Nenya alone and we have the Moriquendi to deal with," said Orlando. "Hold your horses huney," said Connor, "This is the best bit. To hide the real Mimi we change her to Elrond therefore allowing Elrond to slip back into the army where he can cause more damage without detection. Roxie becomes Legolas to hide the fact that he's missing but, here's the best bit, you become Roxie." "Roxie? Why?" "Roxie refuses to let Mimi face such a dark fate alone and goes with her to Pheobus. Then you, as Roxie, armed with Vilya help our pretend Mimi to take out the elven arse hole," said Connor. "I get it!" cried Orlando, "Oh my God this is going to be good but how are you going to make them look like one another. Changing clothes is one thing but if you haven't noticed, Papa's blond, Mama's dark and then the problems with Rox and I." "Easy," said Connor, "I have everything under control. Hurry up and change clothes, I'll explain as we go along."
Soon the four decoys were transformed. Legolas didn't have to change his riding clothes as they were identical to Mimi's but his hair was now dark after a very unpleasant dip in a muddy puddle. Elrond was now dressed in common soldiers armour whilst Mimi wore his clothes albeit slightly adjusted due to her height difference. Roxie, her hair roughly straightened, wore Mimi's clothes in her attempt to look like the elven king. Finally stood Orlando, his blonde hair curled and plaited to match Roxie's and dressed in her clothes. "Okay, I'm officially a drag queen!" said Orlando looking down at the hobbit style outfit, "This just looks stupid Connor, its not going to work." "It looks stupid out here but its really dark in Moria and the decoy only has to work for a split second," said Connor. "Connor's right," said Legolas, "Besides it's the only plan we have. As long as you and I can get close to Pheobus it'll be worth it." "I suppose," said Orlando, "For Rose." "For Rose," said Connor with a smile, "Now here's the plan okay. We need to keep our new Mimi and Legolas apart as Roxie is actually smaller than Legolas and that will look a bit suspect." Mimi giggled, "Just tell Pheobus I had a visit from the Ents or something," she said measuring her height against Legolas'. "We don't need to go that deep," said Connor, "Now then, the plan is that Mimi and Roxie will do the talking but Pheobus think that its Legolas and Orlando. Mimi will say something along the lines of 'I know its me you want Pheobus and I'll go to you willingly if you release my daughter.' Or something to that effect." "This can't work!" said Roxie. "Now then Mrs Took, we have no can'ts in the theatre, you know that."
"Why are they stalling?" hissed Pheobus pacing back and forth, "Do they expect me to go out to them?" "Ah poor little Pheobus, isn't your plan working?" mocked Rose, his discomfort briefly lifting her own. "Don't push me Princess," said Pheobus turning to her, his eyes burning with an icy flame, "You're not totally unexpendable." "Then why haven't you killed me already?" Pheobus turned from her and resumed his pacing, "I have no time for idle chatter." A goblin scout entered. "Well?" hissed Pheobus. "Still nothing my Lord, the enemy does not move," said the twisted creature. "What are they doing?" exclaimed Pheobus, "I'm getting bored." Rose laughed, "My parents always did like to take their time."
Legolas led Mimi away from the group. Pulling her to him, he kissed her, "I love you Miranda, remember that if I..." Mimi put a finger to his lips, "Don't even say it Legolas but for the sake of it, I love you too, so very much. Thank you my Angel." "Thank you for what?" asked Legolas. "For making me so happy everytime I'm with you. We've certainly had our ups and downs haven't we? But at least our marriage held true," said Mimi taking off her half of Narya and uniting it with the other half on Legolas' finger. "When we get out of Moria you and I will go to Lothlorien," said Legolas, "And you shall have your ring back by Nimrodel." "You hopeless romantic. But there is one condition." "What's that?" "You sing that beautiful song about the elven maid to me when we get there," said Mimi kissing him. He drew her into him, his arms tight around her. Even after their years together she had never felt him kiss her this way. So desperate was it, a final kiss it seemed. She held onto him, enjoying the moment and not allowing her mind to linger on the fate that was yet before them. All that existed was her love for him and his for her, a love that could never diminish. They parted reluctantly, their lips lingering in final, gentle brush kisses. A light giggle escaped Mimi's lips. "What?" said Legolas. "I never once thought I'd be kissing myself...Queen Miranda!" said Mimi wrapping Legolas' darkened hair around her fingers. "Well I never thought I'd be kissing Lord Elrond!" exclaimed Legolas, "This will be quite a tale to tell Francesca when she is older." "Along with many others," said Mimi. "Ready to go guys?" called Aragorn. Mimi nodded, "We're coming." Before they could move, Aragorn was at their side, "Take care in there you two. I..." he trailed off and a brief smile quirked at his lips, "I love the pair of you, just be careful." "We will," said Legolas hugging him, "But if this is to be our end my brother, at least I know I marched to my death with the truest comrades." "And for the truest cause," said Aragorn, pulling an arm away from Legolas and wrapping it around Mimi's shoulders, "The last march of the Fellowship. Come." Aragorn took the head of the group whilst Legolas, Mimi and the others took up their perfectly rehearsed positions. "If this works I want an Oscar," said Connor to Orlando. "For what? Most haired brained scheme ever. Lord of the Rings, the battle for Moria starring Legolas Greenleaf as Miranda Tolkien! Sorry huney I can't see it getting best picture," said Orlando. "I guess not," said Connor, "The Yanks wouldn't know class if it jumped up and bit them on the arse! Best stick with the BAFTAs, the Brits know what they're on about." Orlando laughed, "You're terrible!" "Its why you love me. Here we go." On Aragorn's signal the Fellowship and the entire army began their charge into the deep black chasm of Moria.
The great pit of Khazad-Dum had been widely, albeit crudely bridged allowing the army to pass over it with ease into the deep, dark of the dwarven city. "I forgot how much I hate this place," hissed Legolas to Orlando. The army halted and fires lit up ahead, silhouetting the Moriquendi and orc army. Pheobus stood at the front with Rose, "So our champions have arrived," he called across the distance, "Rose thought you'd forgotten about her." "Release her Pheobus," called Aragorn. "No! Not until Narya and Vilya are mine, they're what I want." Mimi's voice rang clearly in the darkness, "I know its me you want Pheobus and I'll go to you willingly if you release my daughter." "Indeed," said Pheobus, his arrogance increasing in his voice, "Well come over here and she may go free." Legolas pulled the hood of his cape further over his face and began to slowly walk over to Pheobus. Following the plan, Orlando counted to five and then ran after him, grabbing his arm. Roxie's voice now sounded in the hall, "Wait Mimi you can't face this alone. I'll go with you." "Roxie! No!" cried Pippin. "I want to go Pip, Mimi's my best friend. Take care of the children for me. I love you." Pheobus' laughter echoed off the walls, "How touching." Legolas and Orlando drew near. "Mimi! You don't know how long I've waited for this," said Pheobus reaching out and pulling Legolas to him. He paled as he recognized him, "You're not..." Pheobus fell back, winded, as Legolas hit him, "Now Orlando," said Legolas grabbing one of Pheobus' arms as Orlando took the other. "Narya!" "Vilya!" Nothing happened. Pheobus lashed out with Nenya's magic sending both Legolas and Orlando to the floor. "Kill them all!" cried Pheobus to his army. The Moriquendi ran into battle with the army of Gondor. Orlando threw Vilya to Legolas, "Use it Dad, I'm not strong enough. I'll get Rose." Legolas slipped Vilya next to Narya. Trying the magic he sent Pheobus down but the powers kicked back and sent Legolas down too. "You do not have the strength to control them both without Nenya," hissed Pheobus recovering himself. "My will gives me all the strength I need," said Legolas getting to his feet only to be knocked down once more. Orlando fled passed with Rose in his arms, "Papa I've got her! Let's go!" he cried fleeing back to the Fellowship. Legolas didn't follow.
Appearing from nowhere a great dwarven army fell upon the Moriquendi from behind, outnumbering them. "Finally! Reinforcements," said Connor, smiling grimly as he brought down another orc. In the midst of the battle, Mimi looked up to see Legolas and Pheobus fighting in a haze of fire and smoke. Legolas went down but this time he did not recover himself. Without any rational thought Mimi fought her way through the battle to the two elves.
Pheobus took Narya and Vilya from Legolas' hand as he writhed in pain on the floor. He united the three rings, "I never asked for much," he said, "But you always had to take what I wanted. You always got what I desired, when it was all rightly mine." "Why?" groaned Legolas, "Miranda made her choice. Why all this over a simple choice that you had no power over?" "She did not choose you because she loved who you were, she loved what you were. Prince of Mirkwood, the title that should have been mine." "What?" said Legolas his pain lessened by his need for answers. "They kept it a secret from you too. But I found out. My father didn't die, the man I thought he was never even lived. My father sat by and made you his heir, claimed you his first born and left my mother and I to nothing." Legolas choked back a cry, "You're lying!" "The truth is hard to take isn't it brother!" hissed Pheobus, "I am your elder, the rightful heir to our fathers throne even though I am not of the precious Elemmire. Thranduil was my father and yet even that I could not have!" Legolas' cry could have pierced the vastest depths of hell with its pain. "Cry not little brother," said Pheobus coldly, "You are welcome to his memory and you will soon join him." The elf raised his hand, preparing to strike a fatal blow with the three united rings. Pheobus cried out in pain as a perfectly shot arrow pierced his hand. He pulled his hand to his chest as the rings grew bright. Legolas managed to collect himself and ran to Mimi, knowing that, if the spell was incomplete, the rings would turn against eachother and destroy the bearer. Pheobus tried in vain to rip the arrow from his hand as Legolas pushed Mimi back towards the fighting armies, "Get clear Miranda," he cried, "I dread to think what those rings will do." He threw himself and her to the floor, covering her body with his own as a great burst of light enveloped Pheobus. With an almighty explosion of fire, wind and water, the light took over the chasm as the rings destroyed eachother. The warring armies stopped at the sound and sight of it but their attention was soon turned as the walls began to shake. Seeing their master dead and fearing the tremors, the Moriquendi balked and fled. "The cave is collapsing!" cried Aragorn, "Make for the surface!" The allied armies fled for Khazad-Dum as the ceiling fell in around them.
Legolas got Mimi to her feet and they followed behind. He was slow, too badly injured from the volatile explosions of Narya and Vilya. Mimi would not leave him, slowing her pace to help him along, "Hurry Legolas please! Fight the pain darling, it is not far to the surface." "I can't Miranda, go on, I'll be alright," said Legolas pushing her away from him. "No!" said Mimi stubbornly. She took his arm and placed it over her shoulder, supporting him as best she could, "We'll get there." Legolas suddenly cried out in pain and fell from her arms, to his knees. Mimi looked up and saw an orc with its bow trained on them. Loading her own, she shot it between the eyes and it fell down dead. She turned to her husband and saw the arrow embedded in his back. She knelt beside him and tried to get him to his feet, "Come on Legolas. Aragorn brought a surgeon with him, we'll get you seen too quickly but you have to move!" Legolas lay back against her, his body too weak to stay upright, "I can't Miranda...its...Ai!" His breathing was ragged as he forced himself to fight the pain, "Leave me." "I can't!" cried Mimi, "I won't let you die!" "Its too late. Tell the children I love them." Mimi buried her face I his hair, "Oh Legolas don't say that! Don't leave me!" His body tensed, "Hush my love. This...this is a warriors death...the death I've desired since...since...since I first took up...my bow." He took her hand, "Never forget that I...love you." Mimi raised her head and stared deep into his eyes. Seeing the bravery in him she lent down and kissed him, "I love you Angel," she whispered pulling back. "Be...strong Miranda. I'll never leave you...Will you do me one last thing? Kiss me...I want your lips...to...be the last thing...I touch," choked Legolas his grip tightening on her hand as he tried to hide his pain. Mimi bit back her tears and kissed him, closing her eyes and trying to will her mind away from the situation. Legolas kissed her back, the familiarity of his lips a welcome comfort to her. Eternity seemed to pass but as the movements of his mouth ceased and the grip of his hand weakened, it all seemed too quick. Mimi pulled back, crying bitter tears but the quiet serenity on Legolas' face did not look like death's black mask, merely peaceful sleep. A pained smile quirked at Mimi's lips, "Sleep, sleep my Angel," she whispered.
The forces of Gondor had regrouped on the mountainside. The injured were being tended to and Rose reunited with Boromir. "Oh my Rose I thought I'd lost you!" cried Boromir hugging her tightly, "Are you alright?" "I'm fine! I was scared you weren't coming for me," said Rose, "Thoughts of you kept me alive my love." Boromir kissed her, wrapping his cape around her tattered wedding dress. Running feet caught their attention. "Have you seen Mama and Papa?" said Orlando, still dressed in Roxie's clothes. "No they were...Oh God where are they?" cried Rose, "Mama! Papa!" "Rose! Orlando! Over here!" came Aragorn's call. The twins looked over in his direction and paled as they saw their mother carrying Legolas from the mines to the camp. Aragorn ran to her and took the burden from her, shutting his eyes against his tears as he cradled his friend's body to him. One of the soldiers lay his cape on the floor and Aragorn lay Legolas down on it. Mimi knelt beside the body, raising a pale hand to her lips and kissing the back of it. Orlando and Rose gripped tightly to one another as they moved slowly to the scene. "Mama?" Mimi looked up, her features grey and her cheeks streaked by dust and tears. She shook her head and said nothing. Laying herself down so that her head rested on her husband's chest, she wept silently. The twins could resist their tears no longer. "Papa!" cried Rose, "Papa!" Boromir's arms brought little comfort. Shrugging him off, she hugged Orlando tightly. The grief that consumed the group was too great for words. The world fell still and silent, the death of a being such as Legolas mourned by more than just his friends. The silence was broken here and there by a choked sob. Mimi raised her head to see everyone staring at the ground. The world was in slow motion. She saw Aragorn hugging Arwen and Boromir to him, crying bitterly over his lost brother. Elrond, Thomas, Roxie and Pippin, their faces darkened by grief. Her children, holding to eachother as they had for so many years when in need of comfort. His children. Her mind fell on Francesca, the little child back in their home with her grandmother, blissfully unaware of the scene before her mother's eyes. To lose a father so young. Mimi's thoughts became whispers, "To lose a mother so young." She leant down and softly kissed Legolas' lips, almost surprised when no movement came from them, "Amin khiluva lle a'gurthaar'thar Mela en'coiamin...to death and beyond, so was our vow." She got to her feet, swallowing the wish to cry. She kissed each of her friends in turn, uttering no words. They did not speak. Eyes scanned her face, not knowing how she could be feeling ad not understanding her behaviour. Finally she reached her children, "He was proud of you both, he has left his kingdom in good hands. Mirkwood is your's now my little one's," she said softly. "Oh Mama..." said Orlando but Mimi put a finger to his lips to silence him. "Hush! I love you both very much and tell your sister that I love her too." "What?" said Rose her eyes lighting with a fire so similar to her mother's in days gone by. "I cannot live on without him..." "Mama no!" "You are strong Rosalia, you both are. Just because you cannot see me doesn't mean I am not with you. Your father and I made a promise before Illuvatar himself, until the day we die...that day has come," said Mimi kissing them both, "Amin mella lle. Aa'menealle nauva calen ar'malta."
The rest of the group stood stunned at her words. "Mimi?" said Roxie softly but Elrond lay a hand on her shoulder, holding her back. Her only answer was a flash of green as Mimi shot her a desperate glance, one final, unspoken farewell to her beloved sister. Once more she knelt beside Legolas and took his hand. Raising her face to the heavens she spoke, "Into your arms I pledge us both. Receive us to your great kingdom my lord, let us live as promised by your tales, forever in love." Taking her dagger she kissed Legolas one final time before stabbing it into her chest. A rush of air escaped her lips but nothing more, she would not mar her passing with a scream. As her body succumbed to her actions she lost sight of her friends and lay down against her husband's chest. Her final words were soft, although waking him from a dream, "Amin mella lle my Angel."
Epilogue.
"The woods look so fine at this time of year don't you think?" said Dominic as he stared up into the trees of Lothlorien. A small, pale hand slipped into his and he turned to see the deep green eyes and long dark hair of his love. "They're wonderful," said Francesca softly, her accent that of a Mirkwood elf still, despite her time in Rivendell, "What a wonderful surprise!" "It is your twenty-first my darling, I could hardly not surprise you," laughed Dominic as they wandered deeper into the wood, the sound of a waterfall splashing nearby. "But you have given me so many gifts already. To bring me here too...but I do want to see them." Dominic held aside a branch for her and they walked into a glade and over to the glistening waterfall. Two simple head stones stood proudly by the water's edge. Francesca walked over and knelt down, brushing the fallen leaves from the stones to reveal fine elven script. "Here lie Legolas and Miranda, high prince and princess of Mirkwood. Given to Eru yet ever in our hearts. Quel kaima," she read aloud as a single tear fell down her cheek, "I wish I'd known them more." Dominic knelt beside her, "So do I. But they are together now and can never be parted again...as I hope we shall never be. Francesca I..." "Yes?" said the young princess taking his hand and getting to her feet. "I...would you...I mean...would you take a vow with me here. A vow of our love as your parents once did," said Dominic. A dazzling smile brightened Francesca's face, "By our ancestors and by the witness of the blessed two I take you as my own. My love, my companion, my friend. Let us only be parted by death and then reunited in the kingdom of Illuvatar. My vow of love needs no witness and yet here it is seen. You are my own." Dominic looked down at their entwined fingers, "If our lord is willing then I accept your vow and give you my own. Though I have no great gift of an immortal life I can give you my love, an immortal love." The wind sighed in the trees as they kissed and they did not see the stirring closer to the water's edge. Two figures stood, smiling. One light of eye and hair and the other a dazzling beauty only rivaled by the child she watched. The woman turned to her husband and he slipped a simple band of silver onto her finger before kissing her. As the wind blew the leaves into the air, the figures faded and vanished but a song hung in the air. Dominic and Francesca listened as the notes danced on the breeze, the music bringing back distant memories but filled with future promise. Francesca looked over to the water and then down at the two headstones. "Sleep in peace. Love in peace." As they left the glade the song took full hold and echoed softly through the branches,
"May it be an Evenstar,
Shines down upon you,
May it be when darkness falls,
Your heart will be true..."
THE END.
As dusk fell the next day, Mimi, dressed in her old elven travelling clothes, led her family to the alleyway by the Moonshine club. "You okay?" said Legolas tightening his grip on her hand as they waited for the moon to rise. "I'm really, really nervous," said Mimi, "We're going home." "Mama you look like one of Robin Hood's Merry Men dressed like that," said Orlando his normal clothes looking out of place against the travelling clothes of those from Middle Earth. "Believe me, I think it will be us getting funny looks when we get passed the gates," said Rose. "We'll get you some elven clothes made when we reach Gondor," said Arwen, "At least I feel a bit more normal now, human clothes are so heavy. I think I've shrunk a few inches since I arrived." The moon rose and illuminated the wall in front of them. The beautiful Ithildin pattern emerged. "If only I'd had the intelligence to realise this was here," said Mimi pressing her hand to the star on the door, "Mellon!" she said. The door swung open to reveal the beautiful green of the Shire. "Ready?" said Legolas. "As I'll ever be," said Mimi as he led her through the portal. The door closed behind the party. Mimi threw herself into the long grass, "Oh my God!" she cried, "Its all so clear now. We fell out of the gate and landed right here. Then the hobbits came out of the field and we fell down the hill. Oh Legolas, isn't the world just perfect? I'm home! I'm home! I'm home!" Legolas knelt beside her and hugged her tightly, "Its so good to have you back again." "Come along you two," said Aragorn, "I told Glirhuin we'd meet him in Hobbiton." "Who's Glirhuin?" asked Orlando. "My head servant, he stayed with our horses whilst we were with you," said Aragorn as he led them onto the road and towards the town.
Upon arriving in Hobbiton, they were welcomed warmly by those who knew Aragorn and Arwen from their visits to the Shire in the past. Legolas laughed at the twins' faces as they saw real hobbits for the first time in their lives. "They're so sweet," whispered Rose, "And look at their little houses." "Your naivete is quite refreshing Rosalia," said Arwen as Aragorn made inquiries into the whereabouts of Glirhuin. "He's staying at the local inn," said Aragorn taking the head of the group and leading them to a small tavern across the square. "Your Majesty," said the doorkeeper bowing low, "You have returned." "Indeed it would appear so Sir. Could I trouble you to bring my servant to me?" The little hobbit ran into the tavern. "Mimi if you don't wipe that insane grin off your face I'm sending you back to London!" said Aragorn turning to her. "Be quiet you miserable git!" she retorted, "Oh I feel like I'm nineteen again." "Wearing a tiny skirt, knee high boots and crying that you want to go home," said Aragorn. Footsteps behind him caught his attention. He turned and a short, greying man bowed low to him, "Your Majesty. Queen Arwen. Your Highness," he said taking Arwen and Legolas into his greeting. He looked up and stared at Mimi in disbelief. Mimi smiled, "Hello Glirhuin. I see you're still in service to the evil dictator then." "Your Highness? Princess Miranda? You...they did find you! It is the answer to the prayers of Gondor, behold our lost princess," he cried kneeling at her feet, "For years we Gondorians have prayed for your safe return and when the Lady Rose arrived we knew our prayers were answered." Mimi raised him to his feet, "Then to the people of Gondor I pledge my thanks for their faith. Perhaps it is your prayers that guided my daughter to the gates of the White City." Aragorn moved to Mimi's side, "May I present the Duchess' children? Rosalia Namarie you have already met but may I introduce Orlando Lorindol, Prince of Mirkwood." "Your Highnesses," said Glirhuin bowing to them both. The twins glanced nervously at eachother, unsure of how to react. Aragorn noticed their discomfort and spoke again, "Have our horses saddled Glirhuin. We leave at once for Gondor."
The party rested briefly in the tavern as Glirhuin saw to the horses. "I like being a Your Highness," said Orlando, "Finally someone recognizes the pedigree." "Pedigree?" laughed Mimi, "Not quite huney. You're a bit of a mix and match." "Huh! The rudeness!" said Orlando throwing a piece of bread at her. "Its true Orli," said Legolas, "You are technically only half elven." "Technically only half elven? Cheeky stink I say to that! I'm a fully elven, well bred prince of Mirkwood who shall inherit the whole of your kingdom when you snuff it Daddy Dear!" "There's not much to inherit," said Legolas, "I forswore Elbereth the day I lost your mother. I'm afraid there is no kingdom." "Well that's just downright rude!" "Besides, who is to say my Kingdom, if there was one, would be bequeathed to you? Rosalia is my first born," said Legolas. Mimi laughed as Orlando sat stunned, "Well that shut you up," she said, "You shall both inherit equally the only thing we can give, our love." "Oh please!" cried Aragorn, "Mushy parent stuff." "You're as bad with Boromir," retorted Legolas, "Hey Glirhuin, are the horses ready?" "Yes Your Grace," said the servant holding the door open for them. The twins watched in confusion as Mimi's eyes widened and she ran to a beautiful white horse. "Descaminord!" she cried patting his nose fondly, "But how? Surely he could not have survived." Legolas came to her side, "He is of elven breed Miranda, immortal, as my people are." Mimi smiled, "I should have guessed. Oh my sweet Descaminord how I have missed you," she said climbing onto his back. Aragorn laughed. "What's so funny?" "Its nothing Mimi honest," he said biting his lip, "I can't say with the children present." "Like they'll care," said Mimi, "They've grown up in London." "Well its just that...well, Descaminord seems to be the second old stallion you've missed feeling between your thighs!" Mimi blushed and covered her face with her hands. "Oh my God! Aragorn you're terrible!" cried Arwen laughing. "More than terrible," said Legolas climbing up behind Mimi, "I'm not old!" "But still the stallion?" said Aragorn. "You bet your ass I am!" "Dad, please!" cried Rose. Mimi took her hands from her face, "I do believe we've embarrassed our children my Angel," she said laughing at the twins' deep blushes. Arwen climbed onto Hasufel and offered Orlando her hand, "Come on Orlando, forget your blushes and up you get. I'm afraid I'm your companion for the next couple of weeks." "I can't get on a horse!" cried Orlando pulling back, "I'll fall off." "No you won't Orli. Arwen is a good rider, you will be safe," said Mimi looking totally at ease on Descaminord's back. Rosalia climbed onto Loci, in front of Aragorn, "Its easy Orlando and it's a long walk otherwise," she said, "Give it a try." Orlando let Arwen pull him up in front of her. "Just relax," she said creating a barrier either side of him with her arms, "I won't let you fall." "Let's go then," said Aragorn. "I thought it was, 'Let us hunt some orc!'" said Mimi quoting him. "Very well Mimi. Let us hunt some orc!"
The dappled light of the forest paths were unlike anything Orlando had ever seen but Rose seemed happy to be back in the beautiful surroundings where she had met Boromir. "Legolas you should sing for us," said Arwen, "We haven't heard you sing in eighteen years." Legolas opened his mouth to protest but Aragorn cut him off, "And you have no excuse now for Mimi has returned to you. Come, sing us one of your pixie songs to pass the time but please, not one of those dreary love ballads you so plagued us with on the way to Mordor. Let's have something with a bit of life in it." Mimi giggled as Legolas whispered something to her. "What?" said Aragorn. "Dance!...Boogie wonderland!" sang Legolas. "Anything but that!" cried Aragorn, "You used to drive me mad constantly humming that around Rivendell. Sing of...I don't know...just sing something." "Alright. I shall sing of Elbereth Gilthoniel if it pleases you;
"Snow-white! Snow-white! Oh Lady clear,
O Queen beyond the Western seas.
O light to us that wander here,
Amid the world of woven trees.
"Gilthoniel! O Elbereth!
Clear are thy eyes and bright thy breath.
Snow-white! Snow-white we sing to thee,
In a far land beyond the sea.
"O stars that..."
Legolas trailed off, staring into the trees beside them. "Why did you stop Mirky?" asked Aragorn. "Miranda take the reins," he said passing them to her. He took his bow from his back and loaded it. "Whoa Descaminord," said Mimi, "What is it Legolas?" He fired and there came a piercing scream, followed by the sickening slump of a body from the brush. He climbed of Descaminord and motioned for Aragorn to follow him. "Rose climb onto Descaminord," said Aragorn moving to Mimi's side and letting Rose across. Mimi pulled her dagger from her belt as Arwen drew her sword. "Glirhuin, with us," said Aragorn. The servant climbed from his horse and came to Aragorn's side. "Be ready to go Mellamin," said Legolas to Mimi, "On my call. Don't look back." Mimi nodded, "Elbereth Gilthoniel be with you." "What's going on Mama?" "Hush Orlando," said Mimi as Legolas, Aragorn and Glirhuin ventured into the trees. She heard the sound of Legolas' bow and Aragorn's familiar war cry. The brush rustled and Mimi and Arwen came on guard. Glirhuin was first out into the open, "Ride!" he shouted vaulting onto Loci's back. Kicking Descaminord into a gallop, Mimi led the party further down the road. She glanced back, relieved to see Aragorn and Legolas close behind on Arod. They kept their speed for many minutes until finally Aragorn waved them to a halt, "Stop. We should be safe now." "What happened?" said Arwen as Aragorn climbed down from the horse and threw himself down on his back on the road, "Orcs," he said. "Worse," said Legolas, "Uruk-hai! They were too tall to be orcs." Mimi's eyes were wild with fear, "Uruk-hai? But how? The were destroyed when Frodo cast the Ring to Mount Doom." "I have no answers," said Legolas climbing down from Arod and coming to her side, "All I know is that the threat is still near. We should not linger." Rose's face paled as she saw blood on his hands. "What's the matter Rose?" said Mimi noticing her grey complexion. "You're covered in blood Papa," she said swallowing back the bile that was rising in her throat. Legolas wiped his hands clean on his cape, "Don't worry Rose, its their's not mine. Its gonna take more than a couple of sniveling Yrch hybrids to make me bleed." Rose shrank back in shock, "How can you talk like that when you've just murdered someone?" "Its hardly murder Rose. Orcs are dangerous, cold-hearted killers. To leave them wandering around, especially in the Shire, would be to cause more harm than good," said Mimi. "How can you defend him? He...I...its still murder." Legolas started to speak but Mimi shook her head, "See to Orlando Angel, I'll talk to Rose." Legolas went to Orlando's side, "Are you okay?" "I thought you said this world was safe?" said Orlando, "I don't call rampant orcs safe!" "The world was safe before we left," said Legolas. "I amar prestar aen Legolas, han mathon ne wilith," said Arwen. "I know cousin I feel it also. A shadow has returned to Middle Earth. Perhaps one of us should ride on at pace to Gondor. Tell Boromir what is happening," said Legolas. "I'll go," said Aragorn. "No Aragorn, rochon ellint im," retorted Arwen. "Arwen it is too dangerous even with your speed. I cannot let you go." "The river Loudwater is not far off!" she protested, "Ae athradon I hir, tur gwaith nin beriath min." "What did she just say?" said Orlando as Arwen spoke too quickly for him to translate. "She said if she can get across the river she will be protected by elven land. Enedwaith was watched over by the elves for many moons," said Legolas. "But the elves have left Arwen. The lands are no longer protected," said Aragorn. "I'll go Your Majesty," said Glirhuin, "I'm armed. Prince Boromir will receive your message." "Thank you my friend," said Aragorn, "May the spirit of Elbereth Gilthoniel guide you." Glirhuin vaulted onto Arod and was soon a speck in the distance. "We should ride on," said Arwen, "There is a village not far off where we can rest."
CHAPTER ELEVEN.
Night came and they all retired to bed in the village tavern. Orlando woke while the others slept, only to see his father sitting on the window seat with his bow in his hand, staring out over the village. He was about to speak when he heard Mimi get up from the bed next to him. The silver of the moon gave her a beautiful silhouette in the window as she sat opposite her husband. "Can't you sleep my love?" she asked taking his hand. "I feel uneasy," said Legolas, "I could not sleep with the children here, they need protection." "Angel you should sleep, we need you alert when the real danger is around. We are safe here tonight. Please darling, come back to bed." Legolas shook his head, "I will not rest, not until I shake the shadow from my mind. Something evil has returned to this world, I can sense it." Mimi reached up and wrapped several delicate strands of his hair around her fingertips, "Then I'll sit up with you," she said moving closer to him. "You don't have to." "I want to. I must be a bad omen, there always seems to be a disaster when I come to Middle Earth." Legolas returned her gentle touch and guided her face to his, "You could never be a bad omen Mellamin," he said kissing her. Emotion taking over he leant her back slowly, his hand creeping up her bare leg under her thin nightdress. Mimi pulled back, her breathing ragged, "Legolas we shouldn't. Our children are in the room," she said. "They're asleep," said Legolas pressing his lips to her shoulder. Mimi pushed him away gently, "Laiqalasse Greenleaf control yourself." "But you look gorgeous!" said Legolas laughing as she turned and lay back against him, pinning his hands to his sides. "You spoil all my fun," he said setting down his bow, "I wish we were alone." "I'll see that we get a private room tomorrow if its possible. You looked so sexy today after that fight, you always did after every battle on the quest. It must be the power thing." Legolas laughed, "You have the strangest notions at times my love. Sexy is not a term I'd apply to dried orcs blood." Mimi released his hands, "You know that's not what I mean," she said as his arms went around her waist. "Miranda?" "Hmm?" "Do you remember the night we first slept together?" "You mean the night we first made love? Of course I do! It was our wedding night in Lothlorien. Why? Have you forgotten?" "How could I forget a thing like that?" said Legolas, "Its just..." "Just what?" "It was so funny now I think about it, we didn't have a clue what we were doing," said Legolas tracing the line of moonlight on her shoulder with a fingertip. "It didn't take us long to work it out though," giggled Mimi, "And then we were unstoppable! That night was so magical. We should go back to Lothlorien maybe even..." "Miranda Greenleaf, now who needs to control herself? Not that I'd say no though, the danger would be fun." "Oh no way am I getting caught again!" cried Mimi, "Do you remember Gimli's face that night after the battle of Helms Deep?" Legolas laughed, "Poor thing, he nearly had a heart attack. It was your fault he found us in such a compromising position, you wouldn't keep quiet." "Well half the things you did that night would be illegal in Britain." "I didn't hear you complaining," said Legolas running a string of kisses up her neck. "I didn't have much of a choice," said Mimi. "Keep moaning and I'll have to do it again my darling!" said Legolas pulling her round to face him. "Behave yourself," hissed Mimi, "Legolas you're encouragable!" His eyes softened and he kissed her gently, "I've missed you Miranda." "I've missed you too Angel," said Mimi wrapping her arms around his waist and laying against his chest. They were silent for a long while and Orlando thought his mother had fallen asleep, until she spoke again, "Legolas?" "Yes darling?" "Was there ever anyone else? Another woman when I left?" Legolas closed his eyes and buried his face in her hair, "Never. I never even looked at anyone else. I just got miserable and reclusive when you left. I barely left the palace interior. You?" "Only two beautiful, blond elves. They were my life. They were all I needed because even though you weren't beside me, you were always in my heart," said Mimi. "Do you think Rose will ever forgive me? She hasn't said two words to me since the orc attack," said Legolas turning his face to the window. "She will learn Angel. I tried to explain much to her on the way here but she is still confused. Her world is different to our's. She has always been protected, she's never known real evil. It is hard for her to see you as a warrior. Give her time." "I hope time is all it takes," said Legolas, "Miran..." He stopped abruptly, sending Mimi tumbling off the ledge as he got to his feet. "Ai! Legolas that hurt!" she hissed. He pulled her to her feet and covered her mouth with her hand, "Hush." He pointed into the courtyard below. Mimi was glad of his gag as she tried to scream. She pulled his hand away, "Its probably nothing," she said her voice cracking with fear, "Just a rider in a black cape." A piercing screech echoed from the courtyard. Legolas picked up his bow, "Wake the children," he said shoving her to where Orlando and Rose slept. "Orli, Rose. Wake up darlings," said Mimi shaking them gently. Orlando sat up instantly, having not been asleep, "Mama?" "Get dressed quickly," she said pulling on her blue riding trousers. Legolas was waking Aragorn and Arwen. "What the fuck is it Mirky?" hissed Aragorn, "Its still the middle of the night." "Will you just shut your mouth and get up. There's a Ringwraith outside," said Legolas throwing Aragorn his clothes. "Ringwraith? How much did you have to drink earlier? Middle Earth to Legolas, all Ringwraiths were destroyed with the Ash Nazg!" said Aragorn pulling on his clothes. Another screech came from below the window. "Reality to Aragorn! How do you explain that?" Aragorn came to the window, "Shit! Okay Greenleaf I believe you. But why is there only one? Where are the other eight?" Orlando gasped as he could have sworn he saw a flame leap up in his Father's eyes, "Exactly," he said, "Arwen, Miranda get the children out of here, get to the horses, we'll follow." Legolas pivoted as he heard Mimi pull her daggers from their sheaths. "I'm not running from this fight," she said running her finger along the glittering blade. Orlando gripped her arm tightly, "Mama if I'm not mistaken those Nazgul creeps are the bad guys," he said. "And I'm a warrior of the Fellowship. I don't run from a fight," said Mimi, an intensity Orlando had never seen before lighting her evergreen eyes. "Go with your aunt, do as she says." "But Mama..." "No buts Rosalia. Look huney, I know you don't understand this world but my books spoke true, good must always face evil and death is not a thing to be afraid of," said Mimi kissing her forehead. "Death?" cried Rose, "Mama, no!" "Go Rosalia." "Come child," said Arwen. Orlando and Rose threw their bag onto their shoulders and left the moonlit room. "Take them to the horses Arwen," said Aragorn, "Leave Descaminord for us. He is he fleetest of them and we may be in need of a fast escape. Are you sure you want to do this Mimi?" Mimi nodded, "I've been baying for Nazgul blood for years," she said pulling her hair back into a band. "Okay. We disband here. Arwen take the back stairs and be on your guard," said Aragorn. "Wait," said Legolas pulling his daggers from behind his back and offering them to Orlando and Rose, "Take these." Orlando took one, the light elven metal making little weight in his hand but Rose resisted. "I...I can't Papa," she stuttered. "Please Namarie miren, take it. Make me proud," said Legolas kissing her cheek. Rose took the dagger tentatively, "Okay Papa." The group split and Mimi, Aragorn and Legolas headed for the street. They stopped in the doorway, hidden by shadow. "How many are there Legolas?" whispered Aragorn. "I count seven but its hard to be sure, they mingle to easily with the night," said Legolas. "If there are only seven then where are the other two?" said Aragorn. Miranda and Legolas exchanged frantic glances. "Oh my God the children!" said Mimi, "What do we do Legolas?" "Firstly we kick these bastards," said Aragorn, "Arwen is armed, she won't let anyone harm the twins." "So are we going in with stealth or the old Fellowship war cry?" said Legolas loading his bow. Aragorn drew his sword, a sly glance passing over his handsome features, "The fun way," he said, "Elendil!"
Rose tensed as she heard two male and one distinctly female war cries followed by the piercing screech of the Ringwraiths. Arwen looked up from where she stood, attaching the final bags to Hasufel's saddle, "They have confronted them," she said, "Hurry children, Rose can you ride alone?" "I can try," said Rose finally glad of the weapon she carried. "Orlando hurry with Descaminord and Loci," called Arwen in a hushed voice. Before Orlando could emerge from the stables both Rose and Arwen were grabbed from behind, morgoth blades held fast to their throats.
Legolas' aim was still as perfect as in the days of the Fellowship as he tried to bring down the Ringwraiths that they battled. Running close behind him, Mimi pulled an arrow from his quiver and shoved the point into a hay bail, pulling free a clump of the coarse, dried grass. Warding off an attack with her free daggers, she held the arrowhead in the fire of a nearby light. The hay caught alight. Using the arrow as a spear, she threw it into the chest of the nearest Nazgul. The creature caught fire and fled screaming. "Very good Mimi!" said Aragorn pushing over a table to stop two advancing wraiths. "I learnt from the masters," said Mimi jumping onto the table and then flipping over their heads to deliver two devastating blows to their backs. Aragorn fought from the front, allowing them no escape. Two arrows flew swiftly through the air and caught the wraiths beneath their dark hoods. They fled. "Three on three," said Aragorn as Legolas joined him and Mimi and they turned to face the final wraiths. "This is all too easy," said Legolas reloading his bow.
"Where is the elf prince?" hissed the wraith as he pressed his dagger closer to Arwen's throat. "I don't know," said Arwen, "Why don't you go and find him yourself? You have no quarrel with us." "Our quarrel is with who we please She-elf!" Arwen heard Rose's stifled cries from the corner as the second wraith held her fast. "Let her go, she's just a child," cried Arwen. "A child of the Fellowship and the elf-prince. A vital tool," said the second wraith. "What do you want from us?" said Arwen. "We want nothing from you Queen of Gondor. Our true quarry is held by the traitor of Mirkwood, you are merely in the way." "What do you want front Legolas? He carries nothing of value." "He carries Narya."
"Hurry Aragorn. I have a terrible feeling that something has happened to Arwen and the twins," said Legolas as the final wraith fled the street. Mimi led them down the alley to the tavern's interior courtyard. As they rounded the corner they saw the Ringwraiths with their two elven prisoners. "Stop there!" cried Arwen's captor, "Or they die." The three came to a halt. "Throw down your weapons," said the wraith. They hesitated. He pulled Arwen's head back by her hair, exposing her delicate neck to the blade he carried, "Do it." Reluctantly Mimi cast away her daggers, Aragorn his sword and Legolas his bow. The wraith released Arwen and pushed her over to the group, leaving only Rose in obvious danger. "What do you want?" said Legolas. "Give us Narya Prince of Mirkwood," said Rose's captor, "And the girl goes free." "Don't give it to him Papa!" cried Rose but she was silenced as the wraith tightened his grip on her hair. Legolas' eyes were drawn to a barely perceptible movement behind the wraith. Orlando moved softly behind, his dagger poised to strike the creature down. He looked over to Legolas and placed a finger to his lips. Then he mimed taking something from around his neck and then crying. Legolas read his plan perfectly. "Why do you stall?" said the second wraith, "Do you dare toy with your daughter's life?" "No," said Legolas taking the chain from around his neck and taking a few steps towards Rose's captor. He looked as if he was about to hand it over but then fell to his knees and for a second nearly convinced even Mimi that he was truly crying. "Please!" he cried his voice filled with fake emotion as his hand slid secretly onto the bow beside him, "Do not harm my daughter. I'll do anything. I pledge my service to Sauron himself, just don't hurt her." Both wraiths, confused and bewildered by such an outburst by a famously brave warrior, dropped their guard slightly. Seeing the opportunity, Legolas cried out, "Now Orlando!" Before the wraith could react to the situation, Orlando jumped onto Rose's captor's back and stabbed his dagger deep into his neck as Rose tumbled away from danger. Legolas, faster than light, pulled the bow from beneath his legs, flipped onto his feet And shot directly into the centre of the second wraith. Mimi ran into the stable and brought out the other two horses, collecting up her daggers as she went. Leaping onto Descaminord's back, she rode passed Arwen who threw her her sword. "Orlando get clear!" she cried advancing on the wraith Orlando was struggling with. Orlando leapt free as Mimi ran the blade deep into the Nazgul's midsection. It fled screaming, closely followed by the second as it received a merciless strike from Aragorn. Mimi threw the sword back to Arwen and pulled Orlando in front of her. Legolas now had Rose on her feet but she was weak from shock. Lifting her, he carried her to Loci and placed her on his back, climbing up behind her, "Make for the river," he cried as Aragorn and Arwen took to Hasufel.
Galloping from the town, it was not long before they became aware of the Nine following behind. "I'm sorry I doubted you Papa," cried Rose fearing for her life as Loci leapt high over a fallen tree. "Pay it no mind," said Legolas, "Just hold on tight." The screeches of the Ringwraiths nearly deafened them as they gained ground. "Rose take the reins," said Legolas pulling his bow from his back and taking aim. "Legolas, throw it here!" cried Mimi handing Descaminord's reins to Orlando, "I have a clearer shot." Legolas threw his bow followed by an arrow over to Mimi. She pivoted to face the Nazgul, aimed and fired, sending a wraith screaming to the floor. "Angel!" The bow landed easily back in Legolas' hand. "The river is not far off," called Arwen over her shoulder at them. "Hold on tight Orli," said Mimi taking back the reins, "Noro lim Descaminord." They crossed the river and turned on the opposite bank. The wraiths hesitated on the other side. "This is getting all too familiar," said Arwen climbing down. Legolas came beside her and they moved to the water's edge. "Papa? What are you doing?" cried Rose, as he and Arwen stood unarmed. "Hush huney, they know what they're doing," said Mimi. "The power of Narya will never be given over to darkness," called Legolas, "Not while I breathe." "Then you shall die," cried one of the Nazgul as they rode into the river. Legolas took Arwen's hand, his face emotionless and cold. They spoke in an eerily perfect unison, "Nin o Chithaeglir, lasto beth daer: Rimmo nin Bruinen in Ulaer." The waters of the Loudwater rose high, flowing hard against the wraiths and sweeping them out of sight. Mimi came off Descaminord and ran to Legolas, hugging him tightly. "Are you okay?" he asked hugging her. "I'm fine. You?" "I'll be...Ai-ie!" Mimi pulled her hand away from his arm, it was covered with blood, "Legolas, you're hurt!" she cried. "Its not bad, just a scratch. It'll..." Legolas' eyes clouded and he collapsed into her arms. Mimi lay him down, resting his head on her knees, "Its okay Angel," she said as she felt him shudder, "Arwen!" Arwen came to their side and knelt down, "Don't worry, Father taught me how to heal this. Aragorn help me find what I need to treat him," she said brushing Legolas' brow, "Hold on Mirky." "I'm going nowhere," said Legolas gripping tightly onto Mimi's hand. Aragorn and Arwen ran into the dense under brush. Rose came to her mother's side, "What's wrong?" "Morgoth poisoning. Even a scratch like this can be deadly if it isn't treated quickly enough, especially to an elf," said Mimi laying her hand on Legolas' forehead. She pulled a piece of perfect white linen from her pocket, "Oh baby you're burning up. Orlando soak this in the river water for me, I need to cool this fever." Orlando obeyed without a word. Mimi reached down and unfastened Legolas' doublet. She lifted him gently and slipped it off him, careful not to aggravate his bleeding arm. He flinched, "That's the first time I've not enjoyed you undressing me," he said managing a weak laugh as he gripped her hand tighter, "Tell me Mellamin, why, whenever we go anywhere in Middle Earth together does one of us always end up bleeding?" Mimi giggled, "I don't know Angel, I really don't know." "Mama?" said Orlando handing her the soaked linen. "Thank you huney," said Mimi folding it and lying it on Legolas' brow. "Don't look so pale," said Legolas taking in his children's troubled expressions, "I've been in worse scrapes than this. You're aunt won't be long and everything will be fine." He flinched, succeeding only in doubling the anxiety on the twins' faces. "Is there anything I can do Legolas?" said Mimi as his grip again tightened on her hand. "A bit of pain relief would be welcome," said Legolas closing his eyes against the fire in his arm. "I have nothing with me," said Mimi. "Then kiss me!" said Legolas, "Anything to take my mind off it." Mimi leant down and kissed him. His lips were shaky and cold against her's. He pulled back as the fire refused to quell, "It beats even your magic sweet Miranda," he said as Orlando came to his other side. "Hey you," said Legolas, "Nice work back at the tavern. We could have used you against Sauron, that was some quick thinking." "I couldn't let those creeps hurt Rose or take your ring. What is this Narya business? I thought it was only your wedding ring you wore on that chain." "Yeah Papa, why all the fuss over that?" said Rose. Legolas laughed, "I take it you haven't told them my little secret then," he said looking up at Mimi. She shook her head, "It was not my secret to tell Angel," she said. "But all my secrets are your's darling for we are one," he said entwining their fingers, "As are the two halves of Narya. Alone my ring is simply a wedding band but combined with your Mama's it becomes Narya, the Ring of Fire. It was the third elven ring of power given to the elves of Greenwood the Great in the first age of the Sun." "But why would those Nazguls want it? I thought elf rings were the good ones," said Rose. "The rings themselves are not good or evil with the exception of the Ash Nazg. It is the bearer who is good or evil. Narya, if combined with its sisters, would be as powerful as Sauron's ring, maybe even more so," said Legolas. "What are its sisters?" asked Orlando. "Nenya and Vilya, the Ring of Water and Adamant, and Sapphire and Air. They are held by the Lady Galadriel and Lord Elrond. They...Fuck! Miranda!" cried Legolas. "What is it Angel?" said Mimi. "Get Arwen to hurry. I can't take much more of this." Mimi gripped his hand tightly, "Don't you start talking that way Legolas Greenleaf," she said, "I know how strong you are. Fight it back." "I..." "Fight it Papa!" said Rose. "You go any paler and you'll match your shirt," said Orlando as Legolas got whiter and whiter. "Hey less of the cheek from you," said Legolas managing a pained smile, "God what are they doing in their? Growing the damn plants. Uck I hate Ringwraiths!" Without warning, Legolas' eyes clouded and he let out a piercing shriek. "No Legolas!" cried Mimi, "Fight it! Arwen hurry, I'm losing him." Aragorn ran from the brush and treated Legolas' arm with a plant he'd found, "Talk to him Mimi, Arwen won't be long." "Angel, hear me darling, don't leave us, come back to the light," said Mimi through her tears, "Tollo del nen galot Legolas. Tollo del nen galot." Arwen ran in, "Sit him up. Aragorn get the children away, I don't want them to see this." Aragorn grabbed the children's hands and pulled them away. "Papa!" "Don't Rosalia," said Aragorn holding her fast, "Let Arwen treat him." Their father's cried made both the twins jumped. They looked on in horror as Mimi pulled her dagger from her belt and handed it to Arwen. Rose turned her face away as blood from Legolas' arm splattered her mother's face and clothes. "What are they doing to him?" cried Orlando. "Saving him from the shadow world," said Aragorn. "But they're hurting him. He's practically screaming. How can they do that to him?" "Its for his own good. If they don't treat him and get rid of the poison he'll soon become a wraith himself." Arwen's voice caught their attention, "I'aredhelrim quene hodo Laiqalasse lasto beth nin tollo del nen galot, tollo del nen galot...Anything?" Mimi's voice cracked with emotion, "Nothing. We were too late." "I'm not giving up. Legolas! Lasto beth nin Legolas!" "Angel, tollo del nen galot, tollo del nen nin." Legolas took in a sudden breath and gripped her hand. "Thank God! We've got him," said Arwen treating his arm and bandaging it. "Miranda...Arwen...Ai...Ulaer...Miran...Ah," he lapsed in and out of elvish, crying in pain, still not conscious of his surroundings. Arwen lay a hand on his forehead and muttered something in elvish. His cries stopped and his breathing fell into the deep rhythms of sleep. "He'll be fine now," said Arwen as Mimi wiped his blood from her face with her sleeve and then buried her face in his hair, crying uncontrollably, "Oh God I thought I'd lost him. My poor Legolas, my poor Angel." "He'll be out for a few hours," said Arwen fetching a blanket from Hasufel's saddlebag and handing it to Mimi. She wrapped the blanket around him and lifted him into her arms, "I'll make sure he stays warm," she said kissing his forehead, "My poor little prince. Sleep, sleep my Angel." "The famous Tolkien TLC, hey Mimi?" said Aragorn. "Its all he needs," said Mimi looking up at her children, "Its okay my darlings, Papa's going to be fine now." "Why doesn't he wake up?" said Rose. "The poison hurt him deeply. He's just getting his strength back. He won't sleep for too long. In a sense he's just under gone a major operation. You should both try and rest, we've had quite a drama today and its barely even dawn." "Will it be like that all the way to Gondor?" said Orlando. "Let's hope not hey," said Mimi giving them a reassuring smile.
Several hours passed. Orlando and Rose sat away from the group by the shoreline, watching their mother as she sat with Arwen and Aragorn, Legolas still asleep like a child in her arms. "I've never seen her this way before," said Rose, "She's so...so...intense about everything. It seems like everything's become life or death, the attack, the wraiths, Papa. Its like she's not Mama anymore." "I know what you mean," said Orlando, "Before the wraiths came I was awake and I heard them talking and..." "They weren't!" giggled Rose. "Sshh! They weren't going quite that far but they were talking about it. It sounds like they were complete devils when they were younger and they were all over eachother. He couldn't keep his hands off her. I've never thought about Mama being that way before. She was so...I don't know." "Sexual?" said Rose laughing at her brother's blushes, "What's the problem with that, or are you of the opinion that they did it once so we could be conceived and never touched eachother again?" "Don't be stupid Rose! Its just, they're our parents." "They're also lovers and they were that long before we came along. Orlando you just have to accept that Mama has a new man in her life now." Mimi's voice caught their attention, "Hello sleepy head," she said as Legolas stirred, "How are you feeling?" "Terrible. How long have I slept for?" said Legolas as Mimi helped him to sit up. She hugged him tightly, crying into his shoulder, "Oh Legolas don't ever scare me like that again. I thought I'd lost you," she sobbed. Legolas hugged her back, "Hey now, no crying. I'm okay, I'm fine now. I could hear your voice even though I couldn't tell you, it was your call that pulled me back Mellamin," he said kissing her, "Where are the children?" "We're here Papa," said Rose walking over and sitting beside him, "You look a lot better." "I wish I felt it. My head feels like I have an army of cave trolls marching through it," said Legolas laying his head on Mimi's shoulder. She pulled the tie from his hair and gently ran her fingers through it, "Better?" she asked as the pain faded from Legolas' face. "Much. I have a feeling you'll be in charge of Descaminord for the next few days Mellamin. I haven't felt this rough since the quest," he said closing his eyes, "Bang goes our plans for this evening." Mimi giggled, "We'll soon be in Gondor Angel." "We should get moving," said Aragorn lifting Legolas up like a child, "Up you come little Greenleaf." "Hey! I'm not a kid you know?" said Legolas as Aragorn sat him on Descaminord's back. Mimi climbed up behind him, "Stop moaning or we'll leave you behind," she said taking Descaminord's reins as Arwen and Aragorn each took one of the twins. "Okay, I'll behave," said Legolas as the party resumed their travels to Gondor.
CHAPTER TWELVE.
They travelled onwards to Gondor and the journey was uneventful. Legolas got stronger by the day and was soon back to his normal self. As they day began to wane, Legolas tapped Orlando's shoulder and pointed into the distance, pulling Loci to a pause, "Look. There's Gondor." Orlando's eyes widened as the sun sent a beautiful red glow over the city, "Oh my God! Its wonderful. I'd always imagined it but never on this scale," he said. He turned as he heard Mimi gasp. A smile spread across her face, "Rose huney," she said, "You might want to hold on tight." Before Rose could question her, Mimi kicked Descaminord so he reared up and then flew into a gallop as she cried out, "Ai-ie!" "Whoa! Energy rush," said Orlando. "Elendil!" cried Aragorn as he and Arwen followed Mimi in her charge to the city. "Your turn Papa. What's the Legolas war cry?" "Elbereth Gilthoniel!" cried Legolas as Loci rose up and followed the others.
As they came upon the palace Orlando's amazement reached a new level, "You live here?" he said turning to Legolas. "Uh-huh. Welcome to Minas Tirith, your home, Prince Lorindol." Orlando smiled, "Prince Lorindol? I like the sound of that." Legolas got off Loci and helped Orlando down as servants collected the horses and led them to their stables. In one swift movement, Mimi was between them, her arms draped over their shoulders, "I forgot how beautiful this place was," she said hugging them both. Rose slipped her arms around Legolas' waist and lay her head on his shoulder, "Last time I was here we didn't know eachother Papa," she said as all four of them walked up the marble staircase to the great doors. "But now we are a family, all of us," said Legolas, "And I wouldn't have it any other way." Two guards opened the doors and they followed Aragorn and Arwen inside. The palace was silent. "Where is everyone?" said Mimi in confusion, "This place used to be buzzing." "I don't know," said Aragorn warily scanning the corridor, "Boromir would have been informed of our arrival. He should have come to meet us." "Maybe he's in the throne room," said Legolas as they turned a corner into more darkness. Aragorn pushed the heavy oak doors pen into the room. It was pitch black. "Stay close children," said Legolas as they entered. "No problem Papa," said Rose her voice a hushed whisper. "Boromir?" called Aragorn in the darkness, "Elrond?" "Miranda Jane Greenleaf, high Princess of Mirkwood, Duchess of Gondor and Lady of Rivendell, why did you deprive us of your sweet company for so long?" came Elrond's voice from the darkness. Suddenly there was a great explosion and the room filled with light. Mimi gasped as she saw all her friends and many others standing under a huge welcome home sign, strewn from one balcony to the other, "Oh my God!" she said as she started to cry. Legolas kissed her cheek softly, "Welcome home Miranda." "You knew about this?" Legolas nodded, "We couldn't have you come home without a party could we?" Before she could say anymore she was surrounded by her friends in a fiesta of welcome and soon she could not fathom who she'd spoken to and who she hadn't. So many friends, older, changed but the same. Oddly familiar yet frighteningly foreign. She regarded each of her friends in turn. Elrond hadn't aged as his immortality still held true and he greeted Mimi so warmly, calling her his lost daughter. The hobbits amazed her, Frodo's intense blue eyes still flared with his passion for adventure, Merry was as mischievous as ever and Sam, to Mimi's utter amazement, had become the mayor of Hobbiton. Pippin was still human and dressed very finely, he too had had a successful career as an author by documenting, this time truly, they're story. Finally came Roxie. She'd barely changed, her wild curls were slightly longer than Mimi remembered but still as beautiful and her body betrayed no signs of her large brood. Her face was radiant and happy, even more so with her joy at seeing Mimi again. "Oh Mimi you look wonderful," said Roxie holding her hands tightly. "So do you. Oh Roxie I've missed you so much huney. There's so much we have to catch up on, so many things to tell," said Mimi. "So many people to meet," said Roxie her eyes falling on the twins, who stood a slight distance away, seemingly overwhelmed by everyone in the room. Mimi smiled, "Yes it seems many of us have new companions. Come here my darlings." Orlando and Rose walked over shyly. "Meet my babies, Orlando Lorindol and Rosalia Namarie. Kids meet your aunt Roxie." "Oh Mimi they're wonderful," said Roxie kissing them both, "And look at you, you're just the image of your father. I think we'll have to watch the girls around you little Orlando." Orlando laughed and blushed, "I'm afraid I don't bat for that team." Roxie suppressed a giggle, "Batty boy hey? Don't tell me Mimi, you brought him up in the theatre." Mimi nodded, "They both followed in my footsteps. I teach at Street Car now." "Wow you've gone up in the world. Oh Mimi I've missed you," cried Roxie hugging her again.
Once the reunions and introductions were through, the party retired to their rooms to change for dinner. Mimi twirled in front of the mirror in her long, shimmering white dress. Legolas' reflection appeared behind her's, the intricate embroidery of his shirt complimenting her dress perfectly. He brushed her hair back and gently kissed the base of her neck, losing himself in the familiar scent of the elven perfume she wore, "You look beautiful darling," he said staring into the mirror. Mimi reached up and stroked his cheek with her fingertips. She smiled, her eyes filling with tears, "Oh Legolas I can't believe I'm finally home. Everything is so perfect again," She turned to him, "I'm back where I belong." "Indeed you are Mellamin," said Legolas holding her tightly, "For you are back in my arms." Mimi laughed as he kissed her, "Oh you are hopeless at times Angel." "Hey I thought you liked romance," he said leading her out onto the balcony. They stared out over the palace gardens. Mimi lay her head on Legolas' shoulder as the soft moonlight fell over the balcony. Blown along by the breeze, a tiny flower nymph lighted on the ledge. It danced away, blissfully unaware of its audience. As it took flight again, Legolas lifted Mimi's hand up, holding it very still. The nymph landed on her fingers, its delicate wings pausing for a moment. Then it was gone, flying out into the distance.
"Mama! Dad!" came a cry from below them. Legolas and Mimi leant over the ledge to see Orlando and Rose in the gardens, dressed in clothes similar to their parents. "Stay there, we'll come and meet you," called Legolas waving to them. "They look so grand," said Mimi as they returned inside and left the room. "Of course they do," said Legolas, "They're royalty now." "Prince Lorindol and Princess Namarie, I never thought I'd be calling them that," said Mimi, "Although I think they shall always be Orli and Rose to us, in private at least." "Just as I know you'll forever insist on calling me Angel," said Legolas taking her hand. "You love it and don't pretend you don't," said Mimi as they entered the gardens. "Well if the name fits..." They soon met the twins. "Mama, Papa look," said Rose twirling in front of them, "Isn't this dress just divine? I feel like a fairytale princess." Legolas kissed her forehead, "You are a fairytale princess Rose, Princess Namarie of Mirkwood." "Shouldn't it be Namarie Greenleaf?" "Not officially. Greenleaf is the human translation of Legolas and it just became my surname to the mortals I knew." "Boring!" said Orlando, "I thought we'd get some funky elvish surname that we got to sign on loads of important documents." "Well Orli you're in luck," said Legolas, "Because you do have an elven surname, Naryalin." "Naryalin? Has that got something to do with the ring?" said Rose. "Uh-huh. Ever since I was a child I've had Naryalin after my title." "Which is...?" said Orlando. Legolas blushed, "Please don't make me say it," he pleaded, "Its so pompous and stupid, I hate it." "Come on Angel, tell the children your name," teased Mimi, "Because if you don't then I will." "Alright, but no laughing. High Prince Laiqalasse Thranduil Naryalin of Mirkwood." The twins collapsed into giggles. "Hey you promised you wouldn't laughed!" "Sorry Dad, it just so doesn't suit you," said Orlando, "So why do I get lumbered with Naryalin?" "Because you are my successor to Narya, its traditional. Sorry Rose but the line of Narya is to the first male child of the bearer." "Hey no problem, I'm just glad I don't get a stupid surname. All these names and titles are so confusing, what are we meant to call you two now?" said Rose as they wandered deeper into the gardens. "Mother and Father in public, its palace etiquette I'm afraid," said Mimi, "But when we're alone or with close friends, Mama and Papa is fine and to us privately, you'll still be Orli and Rose, unless you choose to take your elven names." "I can see this taking a bit of getting used to," said Rose, "So do we have to be all regal now? I don't know how." "We shall teach you, it is in your blood so you shall pick it up quickly and you both already speak Sindarin very well," said Legolas smiling as the twins eyes lighted at the sight of a beautiful, marble summerhouse, surrounded by a crystal blue pond. Legolas led them across the bridge and into the open house. Mimi sat down next to him on a lavishly decorated swing seat, her eyes distant as many old memories of the place came back to her. The children glanced round in amazement at the delicate decorations. "Do you like it?" said Mimi. "Its wonderful. Everything is so beautiful here, I can't see me ever wanting to live anywhere else ever again!" said Orlando. "You mean it?" said Legolas. "Yes, its so wonderful here Papa and I've never seen Mama looking so happy." Mimi smiled, "That's because I've not been this happy in many years. I couldn't wish for more than what I have now." They all became aware of a figure in the doorway. Legolas got to his feet, "Hello Boromir. Have you been sent to find us?" "Father said to give you a kick in the right direction," said Boromir with a smile, "Dinner is in fifteen minutes so he says you and aunt Miranda aren't allowed to go back to your room, whatever that may mean uncle Mirky!" "Don't get cheeky young man. You're still not too old to be sent to your room," said Legolas grabbing him by his ear playfully. "Legolas!" hissed Boromir, "Stop being embarrassing." "So my dear nephew can be cheeky to me but I can't embarrass him back? I can't see that happening. What have you got to be embarrassed for anyway, my wife and son may be strangers as yet but you know Rose well enough." Boromir blushed, "Actually I was wondering if both my new cousins would like to take a brief tour with me." Rose was by his side in a flash, "Oh yes please, that would be lovely." Legolas suppressed a laugh as he watched Boromir blush even deeper. "Lorindol?" asked Boromir. Mimi secretly took Orlando's hand, gently holding him back. "I'll pass," said Orlando, "I want to spend some time with Mother and Father." "Its Mama and Papa Orli," said Legolas, "Boromir is family." "Looks like its just you and I then Lady Namarie," said Boromir taking her hand. "See you later," said Rose and Boromir led her out of the summerhouse. "Brings back memories," said Mimi watching after them. "Would you mind if I asked you to dinner Miss Mimi?" said Legolas remembering their night together at Rivendell. "Of course not Your Highness. In fact, I was hoping you would," said Mimi giggling as he hugged her. A brief sadness passed over Orlando's features and he slumped down in an opposite seat. "Are you okay Orli?" asked Mimi. "Fine!" said Orlando sharply. "That usually..." Mimi began but Legolas signaled for her to stop. "I know what's wrong," he said moving over to where Orlando sat. He knelt in front of him and took his hands, "I'm not trying to take your place Orlando." "I didn't say that you were," snapped Orlando. "Not outright but I can see it in your eyes. Orlando I want to be part of your family, not push you from it," said Legolas trying to catch his gaze. "I know that, its just..." "You think that because there's another man in my life you won't be as important anymore?" said Mimi sitting beside him and hugging his shoulders. Orlando nodded mournfully, "I feel that having just lost Damien, I'm now losing you and I don't want to." "Oh Orlando!" cried Mimi, half laughing, half in tears, "Oh darling why didn't you tell me how you felt? You're never going to lose me, I love you so much. I should have realised what was wrong when you were so quiet on the way here. Orlando, baby, you have to understand that Papa and I were...are so very deeply in love and the passed eighteen years have been so hard for us but you're the reason I kept fighting. Now we're back together my love for you won't die, if anything it will get stronger because I can love myself again. You're so precious to us Orlando, we'd never want to push you away." Mimi kissed him softly, "You'll always be my little prince." Orlando hugged her tightly, "I love you Mama." Legolas sat beside him, "We both have a lot to learn Orlando. You have to learn to see me as a father and I have to learn that your mother has other commitments other than me. I know we've been acting like a couple of teenagers for the passed few months but you have to understand the situation we've been in." Orlando turned to him, "I do. I'm sorry Dad, I love you both. You're allowed to act like teenagers sometimes, okay?" "You bet," said Mimi. "Uncle Legolas! Auntie Mimi! Orli!" came a unified cry from the doorway. Dominic and Celeste, two of Roxie's children, rushed in. Legolas hugged Celeste and lifted Dominic into his arms, "Hello my darlings," he said spinning the five year old round, "Where are your Mother and Father?" "Outside, waiting," said Celeste not taking her eyes off Orlando. Mimi elbowed him in the ribs, "I think you have a fan," she whispered. "Uncle Legolas? Uncle Legolas?" said Dominic patting him on the head. "What is it trouble?" said Legolas. "Mama said you had to get your butt to dinner. She said we had to beat you up if you didn't come now." "Oh did she now?" said Legolas walking to the doorway, "Roxie Took you cheeky bat! Come and fetch me yourself next time!" he called. Celeste grabbed Mimi and Orlando's hands and dragged them down the path to her parents as Legolas followed with Dominic. Roxie stood with Pippin, dressed in beautiful hobbit made clothes. She smiled warmly, "Legolas darling you look positively radiant!" she said, "I've not seen you smile like that for so many years. Perhaps now you will join Aragorn and the others at Rivendell every year instead of spending all summer rattling round here on your own." "Of course. I have to show the children the beauties of Middle Earth," said Legolas. "Do you remember the beauties?" said Pippin, "I didn't think you ever saw them, you were far too busy staring dreamily at Mimi here." "You're blushing Uncle Legolas," giggled Celeste. "He just doesn't want Orlando to find out what a sentimental fool he has for a father," said Roxie. "Hey I like him all sentimental, it why I fell for him," said Mimi wrapping an arm around his waist. Orlando offered his hand to Celeste, "You taking me to dinner then?" he asked. She giggled, took his hand and led the party from the gardens.
The quiet dinner was perfect for Mimi. She felt totally relaxed, surrounded by her friends of the Fellowship and their families. She felt totally serene as she had at the banquets following the defeat of Sauron. "Mimi I've just had the most wonderful idea," said Aragorn, "I'm going to hold a masquerade ball." "Wahey! Another excuse to get drunk," said Merry as a nearby servant refilled his glass. "I'm afraid it will be a fairly formal occasion," said Aragorn, "I'll invite delegates from across Middle Earth to come and meet the long lost children of Prince Legolas." "A ball in our honour? Cool," said Orlando, "When is it?" "Two weeks hence." "Two weeks!" cried Legolas, "But they will not be ready. There's so much for them to learn." "I'm sure you'll be able to teach them in time Mirky, you taught Mimi," said Arwen. "Over the space of a year, not a fortnight." "Don't worry Papa, we're fast learners," said Rose.
Legolas was relatively subdued for the rest of the evening as he tried to work out how to deal with teaching his children everything they would need to know for such an important occasion. As the night wore on the group returned to their rooms. Legolas slumped in a chair by the fire, kicking off his boots. "I'm just going to get changed okay Angel?" said Mimi slipping behind the dressing screen, carrying his old blue robe. "Uh-huh," said Legolas not really hearing her. "Tonight was so wonderful. Just being with everyone again, its like I never left." "Uh-huh." "Legolas, huney, are you okay?" "Mmm." Mimi came from behind the screen, fastening the tie of the robe. She looked at Legolas quizzically as he stared into the fire, "Legolas I had an affair with Sauron and the children aren't your's," she said. "I know darling," said Legolas oblivious to what she'd said. Mimi took a pillow from the bed and threw it at him. He started as it caught him round the head, "What was that for?" he said throwing it back at her. "You haven't heard a bloody word I've said have you my dear?" said Mimi. "I'm sorry darling," said Legolas sheepishly, "I was miles away." Mimi came to his side and knelt down, resting her head on his knees, "What's troubling you?" she asked, "Is it this ball?" "I don't know if I can have them ready in such a short time," said Legolas toying idly with her hair, "What am I to do Miranda?" Mimi got up and pulled him to his feet, "Well firstly you're not going to panic, we'll be able to teach them in time and secondly, you're going to stop moping about and kiss me." "Well if you insist," said Legolas, a smile restoring his handsome features. He kissed her gently. Mimi pulled back, a sly look glimmering in her eyes, "You call that a kiss?" she said. "Oh you want a real kiss do you?" said Legolas leaning into her again. She pulled away further, "Uh uh Mr Greenleaf, you had your chance." Legolas drew her close to him, "Don't be a tease." "What if I want to be a tease?" said Mimi, "There's nothing you can do about it." "Oh yeah," said Legolas pulling away from her and taking a pillow off the bed. "No!" cried Mimi running away from him, "Legolas, you dare!" She dived behind the dressing stool. Legolas came beside her and lifted her up by her waist. Setting her back on her feet, he threw her a pillow while picking up another for himself, "Right Miss Tolkien, on guard! We'll see who's the stronger warrior," he said. "Are you challenging me?" said Mimi raising an eyebrow. Legolas was about to answer but before he could Mimi ran to him and pushed him onto the bed. "Hey no fair! I wasn't ready," he said as she hit him with the pillow. "All's fair in love and war my Angel." "Indeed?" he said flipping her onto her back. He pinned her down. "If I claim domestic abuse I could have you thrown in jail," said Mimi. "In London perhaps," he said running gentle kisses down her neck as he pulled the tie of her robe loose, "But we're not in London Miranda my sweet and we elves are beyond your silly human laws." "You elves are far to passionate for your own..." She was silenced as Legolas kissed her. She responded hungrily to him. She reached up and pulled roughly at the fastenings of his shirt, sending a button flying loose as she slipped it off his shoulders. He cast it to the floor as he released her. "Easy Tiger!" said Mimi as she wrapped her arms around his neck and she felt the light brush of his fingers on her body. "I've been dying to kiss you all night," he said. "Well then you'd better kiss me again, I don't want you quitting on me yet," giggled Mimi guiding his face to her's. There was a knock at the door. Legolas pulled back. "Ignore it," said Mimi, "I locked the door." Legolas returned his attentions to her but the knock came again, this time with a call. "Mama! Papa! Are you awake?" came Orlando's voice from outside. Reluctantly Mimi released Legolas, "We should see what they want," she said, "But put your shirt back on first! Just a second my darlings." Legolas picked up his shirt and fastened the buttons that still remained whilst Mimi adjusted her robe. He went to the door and answered it, "Hey you two," he said as Orlando and Rose walked in. "We just came to say goodnight," said Rose. "What Rosalia means is she's shit scared because she heard thunder and she's convinced the palace is haunted," said Orlando as they threw themselves down on the bed. Mimi got up and went to the open balcony doors, "It does look a bit threatening," she said closing them. "This place is definitely not haunted! So how have you enjoyed your first night as royalty?" said Legolas. "Its been great," said Rose, "Everyone is so lovely, just like you said they'd be." "You seem particularly taken by one young elf-prince my dear," said Mimi tucking her daughter's hair behind her ears. Rose blushed, "I know Boromir better than anyone else other than you guys," she said defensively. "This ball Aragorn has planned should be a laugh," said Orlando, "I've never been to a real ball before." "Their not much fun," said Legolas, "It'll all be politics. I left my delegates to deal with that sort of thing." "And went off teaching a girl from London how to dance like an elf," said Mimi. "Hey what could I do? The kid was useless!" said Legolas. Mimi threw a pillow at him, "Cheeky. I wasn't a kid and I wasn't useless." "Whatever you say Mellamin." "I think we'll leave before we get embroiled in a domestic," said Rose hugging her mother, "Night Mama." "Night sweetheart." Orlando shoved Rose aside, "Night Mama," he said. "Night." "Oh, by the way, you need to sew a new button on Dad's shirt." "Okay," said Mimi desperately trying to suppress a guilty laugh. Rose kissed Legolas' cheek as Mimi followed Orlando to the door. "Night Dad. Don't stay up too late you two," said Orlando as he and Rose made a swift exit down the corridor. Legolas closed the door. Turning to Mimi he pulled her to him, "Now where were we?" he said lifting her into his arms.
CHAPTER THIRTEEN.
Mimi woke as a cold breeze rushed over her. She sat up and glanced around the room. Looking over to the balcony, she saw that the doors were open. Climbing out of bed, she closed the doors, having to hug herself as her thin nightdress offered her little warmth. Turning back, she screamed. Legolas woke with a start, "Miranda?!" he cried hurriedly pulling on a robe and coming to her side, "Darling? What's wrong?" Tears rolled down Mimi's cheeks as she stared wide eyed ahead of her, "The wall," she said her voice a whisper. Legolas looked to where she was pointing and nearly cried out himself. Upon the far wall was written, in elvish lettering, 'Welcome home Mimi'. It repeated in thick black lines all across the wall. "Oh my God! Get out of here!" cried Legolas but Mimi was frozen with fear. Gathering her up in his arms, Legolas flung open the door and fled into the brightly lit corridor. He heard a door open and turned violently, still clutching Mimi tightly against him. He relaxed only slightly as he saw Aragorn and Arwen run into the corridor. "What happened?" said Aragorn running over to them and seeing the state Mimi was in, "We heard screaming from your room." "In there," said Legolas setting Mimi back on her feet. Aragorn took a candle from a nearby chandelier and went into the room. "Hush, hush Miranda," said Legolas, "You're safe. I'm here." Mimi clung to him, shivering with fear and the cold. She looked up at him, her pupils wide with desperation, "My children," she said, "Find my children." "I'll go and get them," said Arwen going off down the corridor. Aragorn came back out of the room and shouted for the guards, "What happened in there?" he said taking off his cloak and wrapping it around Mimi. "I don't know," said Legolas shaking himself, "I just heard Miranda screaming and then saw that dreadful writing. Aragorn what's going on? Who'd want to do this to us?" "Legolas! Legolas, calm yourself, for Mimi's sake. Everything's okay." "The children aren't in their rooms," said Arwen running out of Orlando's bedchamber. "No!" cried Mimi collapsing in Legolas' arms. "Oh my God! Aragorn we have to find them." "We will," said Aragorn as four guards came up to them, "Arwen, take Mimi see if you can calm her down. Two of you stay with them, use any force necessary in their defence. You other two and Legolas with me. We need to find Orli and Rose." "Go with Arwen, Miranda," said Legolas releasing her. Mimi grabbed his hands, "Find them," she pleaded. "I'll find them," said Legolas, "They'll be fine." The party broke. Arwen, Mimi and two of the guards returning to Arwen's room. The other two guards taking on corridor and Legolas and Aragorn the other. "Orlando? Rose?" "Orli? Rose? Where are you?" "Is there anywhere they would have gone if they were moving freely?" said Aragorn. "I don't know," said Legolas as he ran down the stairs. Flying round a corner, he ran straight into Elrond. "Whoa! Legolas! Shouldn't you be with that beautiful wife of your's?" said Elrond steadying him. "Oh Elrond something terrible has happened and the children are missing," said Legolas. "No they're not, I saw them just a moment ago, out by the fountain. They said they were too excited to sleep. Bless them they...Legolas! Aragorn! Wait for me!" cried Elrond as they made for the gardens.
"Orlando! Rosalia!" cried Legolas as the fountain came into view. Orlando and Rose got up from where they were sitting. Legolas ran to them and held them both tightly, "Oh thank the stars you're alright, I was so worried." "We only went for a walk Papa," said Rose pulling back. "You shouldn't go wandering off on your own," said Legolas, "Let's get you inside before anything else happens." "Anything else? Dad what's wrong? You're as white as a sheet," said Orlando. "I'll explain later, please just get inside," said Legolas. "Papa, you're shaking. What's happened?" said Rose, "Where's Mama?" "She's safe but you..." he cut off abruptly, his eyes darting frantically about him, "Get inside the palace." "Papa what's..." "Don't argue Rose, get inside now. Aragorn take her, get her to safety." Lifting her, Aragorn and Elrond ran back to the sanctuary of Ecthelian. "Come on Orlando." "I can feel something Dad. I feel cold, danger," said Orlando not moving. Legolas grabbed his hand and dragged him along the path, "I feel the same Orli. Your elven powers come more into account in this world. You feel the threat the same as I do. Hurry."
Dragged and carried quickly through the palace, the twins were soon back on their bedroom corridors. Orlando lagged behind, out of breath and confused. "Stay close Orli please," said Legolas running back to fetch him, "We have to get to your Mother, she's worried." "Dad I'm frightened," he said. Legolas paused and hugged him, "I know. I'm scared too but its going to be okay. We just need to get to your Mother. Once we're there I'll explain everything to you. Come on." They ran to Arwen's room. She sat, cradling Mimi as she cried. The guards stood close by. "Where are my children?" she sobbed. "Mimi?" said Aragorn. Mimi turned and saw the twins in the doorway. "Oh my darlings," she cried as they ran to her arms, "Thank God you're alright. Where were you?" "We only went for a walk Mama, we didn't mean to cause any trouble," said Rose. Mimi hugged them both tightly, "It doesn't matter. All that matters is you're safe. I thought something terrible had happened to you." Legolas came to them and hugged Mimi's shoulders as she cried, "Its okay, we're safe," he said resting his head against her's. "We'll find out who did this Mimi. I promise," said Aragorn.
By next morning news of the night's event had spread through the palace and the place was on full alert. Aragorn sat, faithfully watching over Legolas and his family as they slept fitfully on his bed. The twins slept between their parents, protected by their embrace. Arwen touched his shoulder, "You should rest Aragorn, the guards shall watch over them," she said. "No, I promised Legolas I would watch over them and I will. I owe it to him, its my fault this happened," said Aragorn getting to his feet and pacing the room. "Your fault? How?" said Arwen. "I should have had better security. I dread to think what we may have found if someone had gone to fetch Mimi and Legolas this morning. I'm grateful our artistic friend only damaged the walls." Arwen came to his side, "Aragorn, my love, you could not have prevented this. We've been at peace for so long and an attack like this was so unexpected. I know how much you care for Legolas and Mimi but you are not to blame." "I know, I know," said Aragorn feeling too tired to argue with her, "But Legolas has been like a brother to me for over twenty years and Mimi and I couldn't be closer friends. I would die if anything happened to either of them, or the children." Arwen caressed his cheek softly, "Your heart will land you in so much trouble one of these days," she said kissing him. "I'd do anything to save those I care about." Legolas groaned softly as he woke. Aragorn was immediately by his side, as Legolas looked briefly disorientated. "So it wasn't a nightmare," he said staring up at the ceiling. "I wish I could say it was my friend," said Aragorn, "Do you still feel a threat nearby?" "Not anymore. Whatever it was it is gone for now," said Legolas getting off the bed, "Have you seen the room in daylight yet? Any clues as to who it was?" "None. The message just repeats all over that wall and nowhere else." "I want to see it," said Legolas. "Is that such a good idea? You've had so much trauma already," said Aragorn as Legolas moved round the bed. He bent over Mimi and kissed her gently so as not to wake her, "My emotions do not matter but any threat to Miranda does. I will not have the most precious thing in my existence at any risk. I have been thinking, maybe it would be safer for everyone if Miranda and I return to London with the twins and live there." "Legolas no! You cannot do such a rash thing over something that is probably little more than a sick practical joke," cried Aragorn. "The coincidence is too strong for me to ignore. When the wraiths attacked at the tavern I was their reason and now this move against Miranda. We endanger ourselves and worst of all you by staying here," said Legolas heading for the door. "You should talk to Mimi before deciding anything," said Aragorn joining him, "What exactly happened last night Legolas? Have you any idea yourself who did it?" "None. Miranda and I were up late and I was woken by her screams about an hour after we went to sleep. At first I thought it was one of her nightmares but she was out of bed and I've never known her to sleep walk. I got up, went over to her and saw the writing, the rest you know." "Mimi said something about the balcony doors being open," said Aragorn. "Well neither of us opened them. The weather looked liked it would turn when the twins came to say goodnight and I remember Miranda closing them," said Legolas. "So how did whoever it was get in?" "The main door, they came from within the palace," said Legolas. "But how? You always lock your door when you retire," said Aragorn. "Miranda locked it but then the twins came and I forgot to lock it when they left," said Legolas as they entered the room. "God! Its even worse in daylight!" said Legolas as he turned to see the wall, "Who'd want to do this? Miranda made no enemies that still remain on the mainland." "Arwen had a theory and I'm inclined to agree with her," said Aragorn. "What is it?" asked Legolas, "Any conclusions would be welcome." "She thought it might be a jealous maid." "Why would a maid be jealous of Miranda?" "Think about it my friend. You're hardly and orc and the years have treated you well. Your looks are celebrated throughout Gondor, you carry a title and are a hero of the Fellowship. Not to mention the fact that your wife has been missing for nineteen years. You're quite a prize Legolas, Mimi's return has taken you from anyone hoping to claim you." "You think this attack is through some stupid battle for my affections?" said Legolas dismissing the idea. "Arwen seems quite convinced," said Aragorn as Legolas pulled his clothes and one of Mimi's dresses out of the closet. "But I felt a threat and so did Orlando, that would not have come unless it was real," said Legolas slipping behind the screen to change. Aragorn sat down on the bed, his eyes scanning the wall for any clue they may have missed, "Arwen has that covered too. She says your fear for the children and Mimi created the feelings within you and that Orlando's was merely from seeing you afraid." "And you agree with her?" said Legolas. "I think she may be right but then maybe not. I just feel we risk blowing what could just be a simple prank out of proportion. I'm not saying what happened wasn't a terrible shock for you and Mimi but you need to be strong, like you were when Pheobus attacked Mimi at Rivendell," said Aragorn. "Pheobus?" said Legolas emerging from behind the screen, "You don't think..." "Don't be absurd Legolas! He is at the havens. He wouldn't even know of Mimi's return. According to him, she's still in London," said Aragorn as Legolas fastened his daggers about his hips and tied his hair back from his eyes. "Do you want the children armed?" "It would put my mind at rest. It was so much easier when I only had Miranda to worry about, I knew she could defend herself," said Legolas opening a large chest and rummaging inside. "What are you doing?" asked Aragorn bemused. Legolas pulled out a bow and quiver, which Aragorn instantly recognised as Mimi's. "When Father had these returned to me at Elbereth I never thought I'd be returning them to their real owner. I kept them as a reminder of her bravery, they lent me her strength when the days were hard," said Legolas running his finger along the patterned bow, "I thought my suffering had ended when I found her again Aragorn but now I see that it may have no end." Aragorn came to his side and hugged him, "Things will get better Legolas, I promise. If I could only take everything you've gone through in your life and change it, I would." "I'm sorry. I shouldn't let myself get like this," said Legolas pulling back and wiping his eyes on his sleeve, "I'm meant to be a warrior and I'm crying like a five year old!" "Hey its allowed once in a while," said Aragorn, "God knows I do. We're only human after all..." "Elven," said Legolas. "We both have hearts, that doesn't change between our peoples. Come on Mirky, put a smile on that face of your's and let's get these clothes to Mimi." Gathering up the beautiful blue gown, Legolas followed Aragorn back to his room.
Mimi and the twins were awake but still relatively subdued. Laying the dress down, Legolas went to them and hugged them each in turn. Mimi looked pale and drawn. Legolas tilted her face to his and kissed her gently, "I love you Miranda," he said. She smiled weakly, "I love you too. Arwen said you went back to look at our room. Did you find anything?" "Not yet. You're safe though darling, I shan't leave your side from now on." "Come along children," said Arwen, "Let's leave your parents alone for a while okay?" "Okay," said Orlando taking Rose's hand and following Aragorn and Arwen out of the room. The door clicked closed. "They're so frightened," said Mimi. "They'll be fine and so will you. We'll get through this Miranda. I brought some clothes from next door if you want to change," said Legolas handing her the dress. "Thank you," said Mimi disappearing behind the screen. She handed him her nightdress round the side and he began to fold it idly. "Arwen thinks it may have been just a sick joke by an envious maid last night." "Let's hope..." Mimi's voice trailed into a pitiful sob. "Miranda?" said Legolas walking round the screen to see her with her face covered by her hands. She was shaking. "Darling what's the matter?" "I can't do this stupid dress up," she sobbed tugging angrily at the ribbons of her dress. "Hey, hey now huney," said Legolas, "Its okay. Turn around, I'll do it for you." Mimi turned and Legolas quickly fastened the ribbons. "I'm sorry Angel," said Mimi trying to stop her tears. "Sorry for what? Oh Miranda you're shaking come here," said Legolas turning her and hugging her, "What have you got to be sorry for? None of this is your fault. Its just some stupid bastard trying to scare us." "I'm weak Legolas. I can't cope with things like this anymore, I'm useless to you," said Mimi burying her face in his shirt. "Don't talk that way. You're not weak and you're not useless. Miranda you're allowed to be scared, I am. You're my life and I'm not going to let anyone hurt you. You were my strength when I failed in Moria and now I shall be your's here. We're united remember, we're one. We face this together as we faced the quest and Mirkwood," said Legolas pulling back to look at her, "You, my princess, need to realise that everyone that matters here loves you and will protect you to the very end if need be." Mimi smiled up at him, her eyes regaining some of their customary sparkle, "you're my best friend in the whole world Legolas," she said softly, "I always know I can count on you to put things right for me." Legolas kissed her, sweet little kisses that took her back to their first days together in Rivendell, "My darling," he said barely releasing her, "My life would be worthless without you. Let's go for a walk, the fresh air will make you feel better."
Legolas led her into the gardens and for a while they walked in silence. "I've been toying with an idea," said Legolas sitting her down on a bench, "If you would feel safer we could return to London with the twins and live there." Mimi's eyes widened in horror, "No Legolas no! We cannot leave Middle Earth, it is our home and we shan't be pushed from it. We've never run from a fight before and we can't now. You said you're my strength for this, well then help me to show whoever did this to us that we shall not give in," she said, "I shan't be pushed from the world I love again." "Your strength astounds me at times my love," said Legolas running his fingers through her hair, "You always were the braver of us. We shan't be beaten and I know the best way to show it." He got to his feet and offered her his hand, "Come along Mellamin, we have to teach our children the ways of the court but first..." He pulled her to her feet and drew her into his arms, "...I'm going to have to kiss you again." Finally Mimi's eyes and smile were fully restored as she looked up at him and accepted his petal warm kiss.
CHAPTER FOURTEEN.
Two weeks passed without anymore dramas. Legolas and Mimi had moved back into their room after it had been redecorated to remove the painted messages. They spent their days teaching Orlando and Rose the etiquette they would need for the masquerade. They taught them how to address people, how to walk and talk like royalty and the numerous dances that would see them through the evening. Alongside the lessons, Legolas also showed his family the wonders of Gondor and the close surroundings. The children were amazed by it all and asked many questions. They also became quickly part of the strong friendships that existed between the families of the Fellowship. As the night of the dance came, Legolas sat in Orlando's room, waiting for him to emerge in his newly tailored clothes. "God Orli, how long does it take for you to get changed?" he groaned. "I'm getting there," said Orlando, "Why can't you people have invented zips yet? All these bloody ribbons. I'm gay not a girl." "You'll get used to them. Hurry up, I've still got to do your hair." "Can't I just have it like your's?" said Orlando coming from behind the screen, dressed in light blue trousers and a white shirt, embroidered with gold. He twirled around, "What d'ya think?" "It looks great," said Legolas, "Now sit down, I have to make you look presentable to a royal audience or at least to the mob Aragorn's invited to the dance." Orlando sat and allowed Legolas to pull his hair into several small plaits that joined behind his head and fell amongst the rest of his loose hair. "Ooh I like. Dad you should have been a hairdresser." "That's what your Mama used to say. Now hole still, there's one more thing." Legolas wrapped an intricate gold band that ended in an elaborate pattern on Orlando's forehead, into his son's hair, "There you are, Prince Lorindol Naryalin of Mirkwood. I'm so very proud of you my son and I know, if he was here, Damien would be too." Orlando turned to face him, "Would you have let me announce publicly that Damien was my partner if he'd lived and come with us?" he asked. Legolas smiled and nodded, "Yes I would, even though I know it would not be welcomed by many. I'd never force you to hide your love for anyone, it would be against everything I did to keep your mother by my side." Orlando hugged him, "You really love her, don't you?" he said. "Of course I do, what a funny question! Why? Do you think I don't?" "I was scared at first. Scared you wouldn't love her because she'd got older, scared you wouldn't love us because we weren't what you expected us to be," said Orlando. "You never had to fear that. Your mother has got older but so have I and believe me she is more beautiful now than she was when she left. As for you and Rose, I have never loved two people more, I adore the pair of you," said Legolas. "Remind me to get you a 'World's Greatest Dad' card when we get back to London." There was a knock at the door. "Can we come in?" called Mimi. "Of course Mellamin, the door's open." Mimi and Rose came in dressed in beautiful flowing ballgowns, Mimi's favouring the silver of Legolas' shirt and Rose's the gold of Orlando's. "Wow Mama, you look beautiful," said Orlando. "Thank you darling, you look lovely too." "Hey how come Rose and Mama get to where crowns?" protested Orlando. "Its not a crown, it's a tiara," said Legolas, "And you'd look a complete fool wearing one." Rose stuck her tongue out at Orlando, "So nah, batty boy!" she jeered. "Fuck you!" hissed Orlando. "Hey!" said Mimi sharply, "There's no room for juvenile delinquency tonight. I want you two on your best behaviour, you hear?" "Yes Mama," said the twins in unison. Rose held her mask to her face, "Do we have to hold these things up all night?" she asked, "I'll get arm ache." Legolas laughed, "Not all night. Only when you dance and I've only taught you a few so you won't have to get up too often," he said picking up his own mask. "Do you remember our first masquerade Angel?" asked Mimi. "Of course, it was your third night in Rivendell," said Legolas, "I hadn't seen you since you'd arrived with Aragorn and I didn't think you were at the ball until I saw you and Roxie in the doorway. When I stepped into the dance with Arwen after the elven dance I saw you sitting alone. You looked really upset so I followed you outside and introduced myself. We were inseparable from then on." "But it still took you twenty-one days to kiss me," said Mimi. "Twenty-one days!" exclaimed Orlando, "Dad I'm disappointed. God if you'd been in London you would have been labeled gay long before that." "Cheeky!" said Legolas, "I was shy back then, you inherited your confidence from your mother." "Hey are we going to stand her jabbering all night or are we going to this party? It is in honour of the Greenleaf family after all," said Rose handing Orlando his mask and taking his hand. "Just a second you two," said Mimi, "Orlando, despite your sexuality you have to support Rose's hand and walk on her right, not the other way around." Orlando swapped sides and raised Rose's hand to the level of his chest, "Better?" he asked. "Much," said Mimi as Legolas took her hand in the same way and led her out of the room, their masks held before their faces.
The ball was in full swing when they arrived. Both Orlando and Rose thought they'd stepped into a period drama as people dressed in elaborate outfits swirled in an amazing dance to the orchestra's music. There was a low hum of conversation and the musical clink of glasses. Peoples from across Middle Earth, including those the twins could not identify, filled the room, all sporting different fashions native to their kingdoms and tribes. Aragorn, Arwen, Elrond and Boromir sat upon a raised plateau on beautifully crafted oak thrones. Their robes, even from a distance, were clearly of the most expensive silks and velvets. Mimi caught her daughter's eyes lingering on Boromir, "He looks very handsome tonight doesn't he?" she said softly. Rose smiled at her, blushing, "Yes, yes he does," she said quickly drawing her mask to her face. Legolas caught Aragorn's gaze and nodded to him. The mortal king got to his feet and clapped his hands for attention. He signaled to the heralds and they took up a trumpet call. Following their parents, Rose and Orlando made their way through the hall and up to the plateau as the crowd parted and dropped into curtsies and bows as they passed. Legolas and Mimi sketched a dignified bow and curtsy as they paused before Aragorn. Orlando and Rose followed suit. "Their Royal Highnesses, Laiqalasse Naryalin and Miranda, High Prince and Princess of Mirkwood," called a herald, "And their children, Prince Lorindol and Princess Namarie." A low hum of stifled conversation filled the room as the family rose again. The twins only caught snippets but they could understand what the chatter was about. "She has returned..." "The rumours were true..." "There are two..." "And a boy, the line of Narya..." Aragorn regained the crowd's attention, "Friends, honoured guests," he called, "I hereby present to you the lost children of Mirkwood who have been returned to us after so many years apart. They carry the unified blood of the Silvan elves and mortals and are yet another symbol of the reunion of Middle Earth after the War of the Ring. Peoples of our great world, I pray you, bid them welcome." The crowd erupted into joyous cheers and calls of welcome in every language known to Middle Earth. Orlando and Rose, completely overwhelmed, managed to remember their father's training and acknowledged the crowd beautifully. "And now to the dance," called Aragorn over the noise, "I command you all for the night is still young." Rose was soon aware of Boromir by her side, "Princess Namarie, would you do me the honour of granting me this dance?" he said offering her his hand. "The honour is all mine Your Highness," she said as he led her to the floor. "Cousin Lorindol?" came a voice to Orlando's left. Orlando turned to see Celeste, his fifteen year old cousin, standing beside him. "Will you dance with me?" "Of course I will sweethe... I mean Lady Celeste. It would be a pleasure." "They're doing so well," said Mimi as Legolas led her onto the floor. "I always knew they would," said Legolas bowing before her as the music started, "They are, after all, our children."
As the night went by the ball continued. "Orlando sit up properly," said Legolas as Orlando sat lazily in the chair next to him. Orlando pulled himself upright, "But Dad this party's getting old and these chairs are giving me arse ache," he mumbled fidgeting. "Its something you'll have to get used to," said Legolas, "I'm not a fan of these state occasions but do you see me complaining? Rose is having a good time, perhaps you should learn from her." "Rose hasn't taken her eyes off Boromir all night," said Orlando, "I'd be enjoying myself if I was dancing with a diabolically sexy man too." Legolas laughed, "Hey keep your chin up Orli, maybe one of the dwarvish party will ask for your hand, its hard to tell which sex is which with them. You may be lucky," he whispered. Orlando pulled a face, "If we weren't in public I'd kill you for that," he said. "I'd like to see you try," said Legolas. "Ooh I'm shaking! You don't scare me you fucking pointy eared bow twanger!" "Who are you calling pointy eared?" retorted Legolas. "Cut it out you two," said Mimi leaning over Legolas slightly. "Sorry Mellamin, I'm afraid boredom is setting in," said Legolas. Mimi's gaze softened, "I know what you mean," she said, "If only there was a way to spice things up a little?" "You could streak," said Orlando, "Or I will if you're too chicken." "Don't you dare!" said Legolas. Mimi was quiet as she sat thinking. Suddenly her eyes lit up and she sprang to her feet, "I've got an idea," she said walking away, leaving her mask on her seat and heading towards the orchestra. "Where's Mama going?" asked Rose as she and Boromir retired from the dance and came to Legolas and Orlando. "I'm not entirely sure," said Legolas. Boromir kissed the back of Rose's hand, "Until later Rose," he said moving away to his father. "Rose hey?" said Legolas as she sat down in a chair next to Orlando, "You two are getting quite familiar. Am I to expect to become brothers with Aragorn through more than our friendship?" "Dad!" hissed Rose blushing, "Stop it." Orlando watched, intrigued, as Mimi whispered something to the orchestra's conductor. He seemed to resist her request but she pressed him further, undoubtedly pulling rank on him, until he agreed. She came back to them, "May I have this dance Your Highness?" she asked offering Legolas her hand. Legolas picked up his mask and got to his feet but Mimi took it from him and handed it to Orlando, "You won't need that," she said leading him to the floor, they were the only couple there. "What's going on?" said Rose leaning over to her brother. Orlando shrugged, "Search me." The orchestra started up but the music was unlike anything it had played that evening. Orlando could only vaguely relate it to the Spanish dance music he'd heard when Mimi had taken them to Madrid a few years earlier. Orlando and Rose watched in amazement as their parents danced. Abandoning the decorum and rules of the court that they had taught their children, the dance was passionate, fast, with absolute contact throughout. Orlando scanned the faces of the amazed onlookers. They were completely stunned as Legolas held Mimi tight against him, leaning her backwards, spinning her round the floor as caressing her slim figure as the dance continued. Orlando turned his attentions to Aragorn, not knowing what expression he would see on his face. Aragorn sat masking a laugh with his hand as he too watched the amazed bystanders. Happy that the king was not displeased, Orlando returned to watching his parents. The dance ended in a loud crescendo of music. Legolas, breathing heavily, raised Mimi's hand to his lips and kissed the back of it. The crowd was silent as they walked back up to the plateau and bowed to Aragorn. He applauded them, "That was wonderful!" he said, "I have not seen a true elven dance performed that way in so many years." Realising Aragorn was not displeased, a weak applause began throughout the audience. Gradually it grew and grew until it was so thunderous that Rose feared her ears would burst. Legolas and Mimi acknowledged their audience and returned to their children. "There, was that spicy enough for you?" said Mimi. Orlando stared, unblinking, at them. "Do close your mouth darling, you're not the Mersea Tunnel." "Oh my God!" said Orlando slowly, "Was that legal?" "No it was elven," said Legolas. "Its like one of those flamenco things," said Orlando, "Only ten times more...ten times more..." "Passionate!" finished Mimi. "Yeah. Wow! That was wild. I can't believe you told me you couldn't dance Dad, you were great. Do elves really dance like that?" Legolas nodded, "Though we don't usually dance that way in front of mortals. They don't seem to appreciate the beauty of such close contact in a dance." "Well I'm glad I'm half elven," said Orlando, "Now I can blame any future naughtiness on my even passions and you can't argue." "Always worked for me," said Legolas.
As the night drew to a close, Legolas led Mimi along one of the open walkways that surrounded the garden. "Sshh!" he said cutting her off mid-sentence, "Can you hear that?" Mimi listened, "I can't hear a thing," she said. "Its Rose's voice," said Legolas leading her further down the balcony and pointing into the gardens below. Rose stood with Boromir, deep in conversation. "Legolas we should leave them," said Mimi trying to pull him away. "No," said Legolas, "I want to see if my theory about these two is right or not." "Oh well," said Mimi succumbing to the temptation, "I'm sure it won't hurt to stay for a little while." Slipping into Legolas' arms, she watched her daughter and the young prince.
"Did you enjoy tonight?" asked Boromir. "It was wonderful," said Rose, "All that dancing. All those beautiful men and women in those amazing costumes." "Yet despite those costumes one beauty stood out above them all," said Boromir taking her hand, "You look wonderful tonight Rose." Rose blushed and averted her eyes from him, "Thank you," she said, "But I think you may be exaggerating." Boromir reached out and took her other hand, "No I'm not," he said his voice close to a whisper, "You're so beautiful, it amazes me at times that you're real." Rose giggled nervously as he raised her hand to his lips and kissed it, running kisses across her fingers, then turning her hand and pressing his lips to her palm. Gently guiding his hands to her waist, Rose stepped closer to him and flattened her hands on his chest, "This is totally against the decorum of the court," she said running her hands onto his shoulders as he pulled her closer. Boromir leant down to her, his lips so close to her's that Rose could almost feel them as he spoke. "But I too am of elven birth and I can blame this on my elven passions." "Which elven passions would they be?" said Rose closing her eyes as he came even closer. "The one's that burn for you," he said brushing her lips as he spoke.
Mimi sighed as she watched them kiss, "What it was like to be young and in love," she said leaning her head on Legolas' shoulder, "That first kiss. You feel so nervous but then everything turns out to be perfect." "Your heart thumping hard in your chest, praying you get it right and then never wanting it to end," said Legolas turning her to him. Mimi smiled, "And then longing for the next time." Legolas kissed her softly, "You know what Mellamin?" "What?" "I don't think we ever grew up," he said holding her tightly, "Because I still feel that way every time I kiss you." "But who'd ever want that feeling to die?" said Mimi capturing his lips and caressing the soft, golden cascade about his shoulders. "The prophecy of Galadriel," he whispered as Mimi released him. Mimi looked at him quizzically, "You've lost me Angel." " 'When you have lost all hope and your line is at its end, there shall be one who comes to unite the kingdoms of Middle Earth. Do not seek it for it shall seek you out'," said Legolas quoting the elven sorceress. "Yes I remember," said Mimi. "She spoke of Rose," said Legolas looking down at his daughter, "She came to find me when I'd lost all hope and my line is at its end as Orlando will never have children." "And now she and Boromir are the unification of Mirkwood and Gondor," said Mimi. "Of elves and men," said Legolas, "Strange how things fall into place, without our intervention in any way." "That's the beauty of this world," said Mimi turning his face back to her, "Who'd ever though that we'd be reunited?" Legolas caught her familiar gaze, "Indeed. I think we've lingered here too long Your Highness," he said leading her away from the balcony.
CHAPTER FIFTEEN.
Two weeks passed all too quickly for everyone in Gondor and the day soon arrived when Mimi and her twins had to return to London. Legolas, unable to bear another separation, even for a short time and fearing for their safety, chose to accompany them. They saddled Descaminord and Loci, choosing to ride tandem rather than solo, despite the twins newly learnt riding abilities. Legolas smiled as he watched Orlando say goodbye to Roxie's children. Orlando's confidence, naturally strong, had grown even more since his arrival in Middle Earth. Now, dressed in beautiful elven riding clothes with his own bow, quiver and daggers fastened neatly to his back, he looked exactly like the young prince who had arrived in Rivendell nearly twenty-one years ago to join the Fellowship. "Come here little Miranda," said Orlando taking Roxie's two year old from her arms and spinning her around. "Fly me Orli! Fly me!" squeaked Miranda as she held her arms wide, catching the breeze in her sleeves of her shirt. Orlando kissed her and handed her back to Roxie, "Now be good all of you," he said as they all looked close to tears, "I won't be away long. Love you all." The children returned his affections loudly. "Come on Orlando!" called Legolas, "We'll never get anywhere if you don't get a move on." "I'm coming," said Orlando walking over and climbing onto Loci's back, "Come along Mama." Mimi fastened her quiver to her back and slipped her bow onto her shoulder, "Yes Sir," she said saluting him, "Where's your sister?" "Over there sucking face with Boromir," said Orlando pointing over to Rose who stood hidden in Boromir's arms, she was crying. "Poor love," said Mimi as Legolas lifted her onto Descaminord's back and climbed up behind her. "We shan't be away for long," said Legolas, "She'll barely have time to miss him." "You cold hearted bastard!" giggled Mimi, "You wouldn't be saying that if it was us being separated." Legolas kissed her cheek, "I guess not. Come along Rosalia!" Rose came over to them and stared up at her father, her green eyes fierce with determination, "I'm not going with you," she said. "What?" said Legolas surprised by her tone, "Why ever not?" "I can't leave Boromir. Please Papa, let me stay." "What do you think Miranda?" said Legolas. "I can't see any harm in it I suppose but only if Aragorn is happy for you to stay," said Mimi glancing over at her friend. "She's perfectly welcome," he said, "And I can assure you she will be well looked after." Rose ran to Aragorn and hugged him, "Oh thank you Aragorn. Thank you so much." He released himself from her grip, "Save your embraces for my son my dear Rose. Don't waste them on an old man like me. Now go and say goodbye so the rest of your family can get along." Rose hugged her parents, "I'll see you in a couple of months then," she said smiling. Mimi choked back a sob, "Oh my baby," she said, "I'm going to miss you so much." "Its not long Mama. Say goodbye to everyone for me." "I will," said Mimi blowing her a kiss. Rose turned to Orlando, "Bye little bro, behave yourself." Orlando leant down and hugged her tightly, "I'll miss you Rose. This is the longest we've been separated since forever," he said, a tear breaking loose as she kissed his cheek. "I know. Keep your telepathy turned on, you hear me boy?" "I hear you huney." "Orlando," said Legolas catching his son's attention, "If you want you can stay too." Orlando shook his head, "Much as I'd love to but I want to see Damien one last time, to say goodbye," he said with a weak smile. "Be iest lîn," said Legolas, "I understand." "Hah!" cried Roxie, "Bang goes your dirty few weeks away without the kids." "You haven't changed one bit Roxanne!" laughed Mimi. "You wouldn't have me any other way Sis!" "That's for sure. See you soon. We'd better hit the road guys." "Ride for Rivendell when you return," said Aragorn, "We leave for there in a week." "Okay," said Legolas, "We'll see you in early June. Take care. I love you all." Calls of farewell followed Mimi, Legolas and Orlando as they left the palace gates. "And its back to London we go," said Mimi. "Back to the cemetery with lights," said Orlando, "Even Soho's going to seem tame after this place." "Dear Lorindol," said Legolas, "You haven't seen anything yet!"
Their journey back to the Shire and London was uneventful and, in Orlando's outspoken opinion, boring. Mimi had to push hard on the door to Minas Mirkwood to get through the mountains of letters that lay in the hall. "I never even thought that there would be no-one to collect the mail. Damien used to...oh Orlando I'm sorry," said Mimi as Orlando's face fell. "Don't be Mama. I can't expect you not to talk about him. Its just a bit strange putting 'used to' before everything he did," said Orlando picking up the mail and sorting it into separate piles, "Why do we only ever get sent junk mail?" he muttered, "No I don't want a new internet server, I'm moving to Middle Earth. Ooh hang on, this looks interesting." "What is it?" said Legolas. "Its from Connor. Why's he writing to me? He knows I went away." Orlando opened the letter, glanced at it and fled upstairs. "Orlando what's..." Mimi called but Legolas stopped her. "It's a love letter Miranda," he said, "It has to be. I've seen the way Connor looks at Orlando. We may have a bit of emotional turmoil on our hands." "Oh dear," said Mimi, "That's the last thing I need."
As the weeks passed by, Mimi began sorting her affairs before she left, allegedly to live in Norway with her husband. She left her house, money and copyrights to her books to the UCH so they could use the revenue to fund treatments and research for cystic fibrosis and AIDS. Orlando resumed his friendship with Connor but made no comment on the letter. Legolas, easily reading their emotions, saw their attachment grow but also Orlando's resistance to his feelings. Knowing that to leave Connor behind would eventually destroy Orlando's hopes of ever finding love again, Legolas chose to risk everything by talking to him, despite his protestations to leave the subject at rest. "Legolas huney, could you get those boxes from upstairs for me?" called Mimi from the front room, "I've got more stuff for that charity drop." "Sorry Mellamin, I'm off out," called Legolas pulling on his coat. Mimi appeared in the doorway, her hair tied up in a scarf to protect it from the dust, "Where are you going?" she asked, "You having an affair or something?" "I'm going to see Orlando. He went off to the graveyard again this morning," said Legolas. "That's the fourth time in three days," said Mimi, "I'm getting worried about him. I know he misses Damien but this is getting unhealthy, he's starting to rely on that head stone more than he does on us." "That's why I'm going to talk to him," said Legolas kissing her goodbye, "I won't be long. Love you." "Love you too," said Mimi as he left the house.
The mid-May sunshine was warm on Legolas' back as he walked down the cemetery paths, glad for the slight alleviation the light gave to such a gloomy place. In the distance he could make out Orlando's figure, crouching by the side of one of the graves. Quickening his step, he arrived at his son's side. Orlando looked up, squinting in the sunlight, "Hey Dad, what are you doing here?" he asked getting to his feet. "I came to talk to you Orlando, its important. Is there somewhere we could sit down? This may take a while." Orlando nodded and led Legolas to a nearby bench, "What is it Dad? You don't look your usual self." "Orlando, your Mama and I are getting worried about you. You're spending far too much time here. Its not good for you," said Legolas. "Don't worry about me Papa. I'm fine, honest. I just want to say what I have to say to Damien before I leave." Legolas reached out and took his son's hands, his blue eyes intense with worry, "Don't you see Orli? That's what's bothering us," he said, "You're treating that headstone as if it was Damien. I know this sounds harsh and I hate to have to say it so soon after you've lost him but Damien's gone, you need to move on." Orlando got to his feet and began to walk away, "and what if I don't want to move on?" "Don't walk away from me Lorindol!" said Legolas. Orlando stopped, shocked by Legolas using his elven name in such a tone. He felt a warm hand grip his shoulder as Legolas turned him to face him. "You need to let go, move on. I know its hard but you need to learn that there are men in this world other than Damien and you need to free yourself of the thought that he's the only one you can love." Orlando's eyes burned with tears as he stared in disbelief at his father, "How can you lecture me on letting go when you spent nineteen years locked away in Ecthelian pining over my Mother? How can you be such a hypocrite?" "Your mother was still alive!" said Legolas grabbing Orlando's shoulders, "I still had hope that she'd return to me. Damien's dead Orlando, he can't come back and everyday you waste waiting for him you push someone who loves you further and further away." "I'm not getting onto this Connor rubbish again Legolas!" cried Orlando shoving him away and returning to Damien's graveside, "I love Damien and no- one else." "Then if you truly love him you'll know he'd have wanted you to move on. He loved Liam but did that stop him falling for you?" said Legolas not moving, "We all lose souls we care for Orlando but if we allow that to kill what love we have then we are the one's who deserve to be gone from this world. Its time you learnt that you cannot have a lover of stone and flowers but you can have a lover of flesh and blood who would follow you to the ends of the earth if you ask him to. I'll leave you to think things over but think quickly, you've not got much time left." Without a word of goodbye, Legolas made off down the path and left the cemetery.
"Bastard," muttered Orlando as he watched his father disappear out of the graveyard, "What right has he to tell me how to live my life? Its not as if he's been there for me. H e didn't raise me or make me what I am. He swans in after eighteen years and just expects to..." Orlando checked himself, realising everything he was saying was unfair. Reaching inside his pocket he pulled out his Lothlorien brooch. "What do I do Damien? I'm so confused," he said running his hand over the gravestone, "I need more time. Oh why does everything have to be judged in minutes? It makes everything seem so short, so fragile. I don't know who I am anymore. You knew my past but Connor doesn't. What am I meant to do? He'll think I'm mad if I start telling him I'm from another world, one way trip to the loony bin for me." A light breeze blew a dry, brown leaf into Orlando's lap. He held it against his brooch, the pattern was the same. He smiled, "Why does that man always have to be right?" Closing his hand around the brooch and the leaf, he shut his eyes and muttered softly in elvish. Opening his hand, he held the delicate rosebud up in front of him, "Life can be renewed," he said, "And so can love. I'll never forget you Damien but Papa's right, I need to let go." He took Connor's letter out of his pocket and got to his feet, "I must be out of my mind," he said running from the graveyard.
Slamming the door, Legolas stormed into the front room and threw himself down on the sofa, burying his face in his arms. "Hey, you're back," called Mimi from upstairs, "And how are my two elven dar...one elven darling who looks decidedly upset. Legolas? Are you okay my Angel?" Mimi descended the stairs and knelt beside him, stroking his hair, "What's wrong huney?" "Your son hates me and its all my fault," said Legolas, his voice muffled by his arms. Mimi gently lifted his face up to her's, "What happened?" she asked as Legolas sat up and beckoned her beside him. Sitting down she took his hands. "I went to the graveyard and told Orlando we were worried about him. Then I told him that he needed to let Damien go and maybe look to Connor but it all came out wrong. We sort of argued and I told him to choose because we didn't have much time left. I just have this terrible feeling that I've hurt him too deeply to be forgiven. I'm so useless at this father business, I can't get anything right," said Legolas turning his face away. Mimi pulled him against her and hugged him, "You daft fool," she said kissing his hair, "If you knew the number of blazing rows Orlando and I have had over the years over things far more trivial than that, you'd think us insane. Do you want to know what the problem with our son is?" "What?" said Legolas looking up at her. "He's far too much like his father. He can't accept advice even when he knows its for the best but he soon sees that the advice is right. Give him time Angel, he'll be your best friend again by this evening, I can guarantee it." Legolas pressed his face to her shoulder, letting her heavy perfume drown his senses, "You're so annoying, do you know that?" he said, "You're always so God damn right." Mimi laughed, "Its part of my charm. I'll go and get cleaned up and we'll head out for lunch, my treat." Legolas looked up at her, "You're far too good to me Mellamin. I don't deserve you." Mimi kissed him softly, "Yes you do, you're far too gorgeous to belong to anyone else. Come on my darling, time to hit the town."
Orlando glanced at the letter in his hand, sighed deeply and pressed the inter-com button. "Hello?" came a voice from the speaker. Orlando nearly ran but he forced himself to stay, "Hey Connor, its Orlando." "Hiya Orli, come on up." The door clicked unlocked and Orlando went inside. He climbed the stairs to Connor's door and tapped softly on it. It opened and Connor beckoned him inside, "This is a nice surprise. Its unlike you not to ring first," he said a sweet smile accentuating his features and forcing Orlando to look away, "I'm afraid the place is a bit of a mess." "Its no worse than mine," said Orlando moving to the window and staring out of it." "Oh yeah the big move. How's everything going? You're Mum seemed frantic last time I was over. Do you want a drink?" "No thank you, I'm fine," said Orlando. Connor stared quizzically at his back, "Is there something wrong Orlando? You don't sound very happy," he said. "I've got a lot on my mind at the moment. A lot of decisions to make." "I understand," said Connor, "This move must be pretty scary for you, what with leaving the country and all. You know if you ever need to talk I'm a great listener." Orlando tensed as he felt Connor's hand light on his hip. Turning, he pulled the tattered letter from his pocket, "Its not the move that's bothering me, its this." Connor took the letter and scanned it, "I thought you said you didn't get this," he said swallowing hard, "You said it must have got lost in the post." "I lied," said Orlando walking away, "I've had it since I got back from Gon...Norway. I just didn't have the confidence to talk about it so I denied getting it." "So why admit it now?" asked Connor. Orlando laughed weakly, "My Dad gave me a good kick up the arse earlier, showed me I need to learn to live again before its too late." "Too late?" said Connor, "Oh God you haven't got..." "AIDS? No, but when I move away we'll lose contact." He felt two hands on his shoulders, "No we won't," said Connor, "We can write, email, even ring eachother occasionally, its not as if you're moving to Mars." "I might as well be," said Orlando. Connor turned him to him, "What do you mean Orlando? You're starting o confuse me." "There are things you don't know about me, things you wouldn't understand," said Orlando finally finding the confidence to look into Connor's dark eyes, "I'm not like most people." "I could have told you that," said Connor pulling him to him. Orlando pushed him away, "I don't mean like that. I'm...I'm different...I'm. Oh fuck this you wouldn't understand," he said turning away. "What are you talking about Orlando? Why have you come here? I can't take this torment for much longer. I love you okay and I..." "What did you just say?" said Orlando turning back to him. Connor's eyes were full of tears, "I love you." Orlando stood silently, his eyes holding Connor's. Connor averted his gaze and shook his head, "For fuck's sake say something. Don't do this to me." "I've often dreamed of you saying that to me," said Orlando, "But I never thought that it would sound that wonderful," Taking his hand he drew him close, "Kiss me!" "What?" "Kiss me Connor, like I dreamed you do." Connor reached up and took Orlando's face tentatively in his hands. He kissed him, softly at first, scared of the emotions stirring inside of him. Orlando pulled him against him, his arms tightly encircling Connor's waist as he captured his lips fully. When they parted Orlando's breathing was ragged and shaky. "Did that really just happen?" asked Connor wishing Orlando would open his eyes and look at him. "I'm not sure," whispered Orlando, "I don't know if I'm dreaming again." Delicately brushing his lips, Orlando enticed Connor back to him, feeling him shudder with longing in his arms. "Now I know I'm not dreaming," said Orlando finally opening his eyes, their brightness restored. "Does this mean I can finally tell everyone you're my boyfriend?" said Connor curling Orlando's hair around his fingers. His face fell as Orlando shook his head, "You won't want to. We're never going to see eachother again when I've gone." "Never's too strong a word, you taught me that. Besides, not all long distance relationships fail," said Connor holding Orlando's hands tightly. "You don't understand Connor. I'm not moving to Norway. You'd better sit down, there's something I have to tell you," said Orlando guiding Connor to the sofa and sitting him down, "Now what I have to say is pretty unbelievable but I want you to listen to everything before you speak, okay?" Connor nodded, his eyes betraying the fear within him, "Okay." "Well firstly, my name isn't Orlando Tolkien, that is merely my human name. My name's Lorindol Naryalin, Prince of Greenwood the Great." Connor looked bemused, "Are you mucking about? That's..." Orlando placed a finger to his lips and then kissed him softly, "You promised you wouldn't speak. Yes, Greenwood the Great or Mirkwood as its known these days, is a place in my Mother's books but its also a real place. Middle Earth exists. Its where I've been and where I'm going in two weeks, forever. My Father wasn't just the inspiration for the elven prince of the Fellowship, he is that elven prince, I'm an elven prince. I never knew my Father, not until recently but now I want to share my story with you, if you'll listen." Connor scanned Orlando's face, unsure of how to take such a revelation, "Okay, I'm listening."
CHAPTER SIXTEEN.
"I don't think I'll ever have to eat again in my life," said Legolas rolling onto his back and staring into the clear blue sky, "I'm stuffed." Mimi ran her hand along his chest and onto his shoulder, her face buried in the soft grass of Hyde Park, "Well if you hadn't been such a pie at the restaurant you wouldn't be so full," she said, "How do you eat that much and stay so slim?" "I get far to much exercise!" laughed Legolas, "I'm going to miss this place." Mimi pushed up and rested on her elbow, "I wonder what Rose is doing?" she said. Legolas traced a line down her cheek with a fingertip, "Well that depends on how prim and proper Boromir is. You never know, we may be grandparents in waiting when we get home." "I sincerely hope not," said Mimi, "I'm far too young to be a grandmother." "Well you can be Middle Earth's youngest and sexiest," said Legolas, "Think about me. I've only just gotten used to being a father, let alone a grandfather." Mimi lay against him, "Its so strange. I still see Rose as a little girl but in just over two years she'll be the age I was when they were born. Do you know in December it'll be our twenty-first wedding anniversary?" "You're joking!" cried Legolas, "It doesn't seem two minutes since we were beside Nimrodel, making our promises. Did we really get married after only two months together?" "Uh-huh. You proposed when we reached Lorien and married me that night," said Mimi. "Talk about impulsive," said Legolas, "But I wouldn't change it for the world." "Good," said Mimi kissing him.
"So that's my story," said Orlando staring out of the window to the street below, "My Mama's books were about a real event and I'm a child of the Fellowship. So you can see why we can't be together, once I return to Middle Earth I don't intend to come back again." Connor was silent and all Orlando could hear was the thumping of his own heart as it beat against his chest, "You do believe me don't you? Every word was the..." "Amin mella lle Lorindol," said Connor. "Excuse me?" "Amin mella lle," said Connor wrapping his arms around Orlando's waist, "If I remember rightly, that's how you elves say 'I love you'." Orlando laughed and reached up to Connor's cheek, watching their faint reflection in the window, "You learn fast. So you believe me?" Connor pressed his lips to Orlando's neck, "I always knew there was something magical about you. You're far too good looking to be human...Take me with you?" Orlando turned to him, "What?" "Take me to Middle Earth with you, I'll follow you there. We could be together Lorindol..." "Huney, its still Orli." "Okay...Orli...we could be together, forever in your world. When I read your Mama's books I always wondered what it was like to ride horseback across the Etten Moorlands and be a member of the court of Gondor. I want to go with you," said Connor smiling shyly as Orlando pushed his curls back from his face. "You'll have to leave London behind, we won't return." "I understand. I know I love you and I'm not going to let you leave me. I'll even call you Your Highness if you want." Orlando laughed, "I bet you would you kinky bastard," he said kissing him, "Amin mella lle Connor. Come on, we need to talk to my Father, I'm afraid his word is law." Taking his hand he led him to the door. "Wait! Orlando!" "What's the matter?" "Are we officially together now?" asked Connor looking down at their entwined fingers. Orlando raised his hand his lips and kissed it, "Of course we are. Come on. Let's get out of here."
"We should head home Angel," said Mimi as she felt the shadow of a cloud pass over her. "I guess. It looks as if it might rain soon," said Legolas sitting up and pulling on his shoes, "What do you say to getting a video out and crashing on the sofa with some of that great French wine you have in the basement? Before parenthood resumes." He helped Mimi to her feet. "Why not! Orlando could well be at home when we get there though." "No doubt he'll still be acting like an orc with a sore head," said Legolas brushing the grass off his trousers. Mimi laughed, "Legolas Greenleaf you do come out with the strangest things at times." "This coming from the woman who didn't know elves were immortal." "Do you want a slap?" "Miranda! We're in public, behave!" Mimi's eyes widened with laughter and shock, "In your dreams Your Highness! For that comment I hereby forswear your bed." "Not a problem, we're sleeping in your's at the moment," said Legolas pulling her too him, "Forget the video! Let's just go home!"
"Typical, no-one's bloody home," said Orlando as he led Connor into Minas Mirkwood. "This place looks like a bomb's hit it," said Connor glancing round the front room. "Organised chaos. Mama's sending most of our stuff to charity shops because we can't take it with us." "I suppose I'll have to put my place up for sale too, if your Father says I can come. Do I have to call him Your Highness now I know?" Orlando shook his head, "Just call him Legolas instead of Laiqalasse, he hates his real name and only goes by it so people don't instantly associate him with the books. He's only a prince in name really now anyway. His family moved to the havens of the West and the citadel of Elbereth is no more. You do realise we won't be able to tell your family where you're going, we don't want the whole world finding out about the portal." "Don't worry. I don't have any family. I'm an only child and I haven't spoken to my parents in three years, they disowned me when I came out." "Oh huney I'm sorry." "Hey, its old news. I've got what I want now," said Connor hugging Orlando tightly. "Orli, baby? Are you home?" came Mimi's voice as the front door opened. "We're in here Mama." "We? Do we have guests?" said Mimi appearing in the doorway, "Hello Connor. How are you?" "Fine thanks Jane...I mean Mimi." Mimi smiled and looked over to her son, "Someone's been telling tales I see. Angel?" "Yes darling?" called Legolas from the hall. "I believe our little secrets out." Connor tensed as Legolas appeared in the doorway. "Indeed," said Legolas, "I hope the news wasn't too shocking for you Connor." "No Sir, I mean Your Highness, I mean Legolas, I mean..." "Its just Legolas, Connor, nothing more. I haven't changed who I was since we last met so, unless you are a minion of Sauron, you have nothing to fear from me." Orlando took Connor's hand, "Mama, Papa, there's something we need to tell you," he said. Mimi glanced up at Legolas, smiled and returned her attentions to her son, "Go on." "We're together, Connor and I and well..." "Well what Orli?" said Legolas. "He wants to come to Middle Earth with me and I want him to but I knew I had to ask you so we came here to ask and please don't say no because I don't know what I'll do!" said Orlando not pausing for breath. "Orli! Orli! Slow down, you're going to give yourself heart failure," said Legolas stepping passed Mimi and walking over to Orlando. Connor shrank back. "I'm not going to bite, you know," laughed Legolas. "Don't believe him Connor," laughed Mimi, "I'll put the kettle on." "Sit down Connor," said Legolas, "Let's go through this slowly. I take it Orlando's told you everything about Middle Earth?" "Well not exactly everything but enough, the important stuff," said Connor. "You do realise once we go we won't return, you'll have to remain in Middle Earth your whole life." "I know and I want to. I want to be with Orlando...Lorindol..." "Orlando," said Legolas. "Right. I want to be with Orlando and if it means going to Gondor, or Rivendell, or anywhere else, I'm going." "You seem quite determined," said Legolas. "I am Legolas, Your Highness, I really am." "Then you may come but on one condition." "What? I'll do anything." "You stop with this Your Highness business. Its driving me mad!"
"This has been the shortest fortnight of my life," said Connor as he, Orlando, Mimi and Legolas stood, laden with bags, in front of the alleyway wall. "These clothes feel weird, they're so light." "You'll get used to them," said Orlando taking his hand as the moon began to rise, "Are you sure you want to do this?" The Ithildin gate appeared in front of them. "I'm sure. I can't let you leave me. I just can't get over how different you look with that bow and arrow job over your shoulder." "Its needed. Things can get a bit hairy at times," said Orlando adjusting the straps of his quiver. The gate shone brightly. "Perhaps you'd like to open the gates for us Connor?" said Legolas. "Okay, why not?" said Connor pressing his hand to the central star, "Err, Legolas? What's the password? I've forgotten." Orlando lay his hand over Connor's, "It friend in Elvish...Mellon." Connor sprang back as the door opened before him into the beautiful green of the Shire, "Oh my God in Heaven above!" he exclaimed staring wide-eyed at the sight. Legolas and Mimi stepped through and Orlando passed a couple of large trunks to them. He turned back to Connor, "Come on huney, its time. Say goodbye to London." Connor took Orlando's hand, "Okay. Bye bye London." He stepped through with Orlando and the doors closed behind him and disappeared, "This place is beautiful!" he said taking in every detail around him. "You haven't seen anything yet," said Legolas, "You guys wait here, I'll go and buy us a cart of some sort to put this lot in and collect Descaminord and Loci from the stables in Hobbiton, I shan't be long." He whispered something to Mimi and she nodded. "Elbereth Gilthoniel go with you," she said as he climbed down the slope and wandered off down the road, leaving the others with the bags. Mimi turned to Orlando, "Be on your guard darling. Your Papa says there's a slight threat." "Its very small," said Orlando, "But I feel it. Its no biggie though." Mimi smiled, "Happy to be back?" she asked. "Cormamin glina tiri," said Orlando sitting down on the soft grassy bank. "Huh?" said Connor. "My heart gleams brightly, its an elvish way of saying I'm happy," translated Orlando. "You don't always speak elvish do you?" "No," said Mimi, "Very rarely in fact, although Legolas and I do tend to speak elvish when we're alone or with our friends of the Fellowship, its more natural for us." "But you're not elven," said Connor, "Why would it be more natural for you?" "When we were on the Great Quest, with the Fellowship, I was touched by the elven magic of Lothlorien. When the realm of Caras Galadhon was there anyone who entered became fluent in Sindarin, but alas it is no more. Galadriel and Celeborn chose to take their people to the havens," said Mimi leaning against the tree. Connor looked sad, "You make it sound like the end of the world." "In a way it is. Legolas is now a mortal elf, he is not as he was when I first met him. Elves are the most beautiful, kind and natural people in the whole of Middle Earth. Their departure takes the world's heart with it, it was a sad day when they left the shores for Valinor." "So have all the elves gone now?" asked Connor his curiosity getting the better of him. "Most of them, a few remain. Those who have married mortals or been exiled from their kingdoms. Legolas, Arwen and Elrond have remained behind in Gondor. You'll meet Elrond when we get to Rivendell. We'd better get these cases down to the road, Legolas won't be long with the horses."
Legolas soon returned with Descaminord and Loci harnessed to a skillfully made cart, "Number nine bus leaving for Rivendell," he said pulling it to a halt beside them. "Ooh huney you should have been a comedian!" said Mimi helping Orlando and Connor lift the cases into the back. "Looks like you boys are riding in cargo," said Legolas as Mimi moved to the front and climbed up beside him. "There's plenty of space back here, we'll be fine," said Orlando handing Connor into the cart and securing the back. "All set?" said Mimi as Orlando sat down on one of the cases. "Ready and raring to go," called Orlando, "You should sing Papa." "Why not?" said Legolas clicking the horses onwards,
"The road goes ever on and on,
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the road has gone,
And I must follow if I can.
"Pursuing it with weary feet,
Until it joins some larger way,
Where many paths and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say."
"Oh why can't I get the hang of this?" groaned Connor kicking a leaf that had fallen into the cart in frustration. "Your pronunciation will come in time," said Orlando reaching out and taking his hand, "Elvish isn't something you can learn over night." "Why don't you leave the lessons for now Orli?" said Legolas over his shoulder as the cart continued to trundle along the road, "We've been travelling for eight days and I've heard you speak of little else. I'm surprised Connor hasn't begged us to take him back to London, you're starting to bore even me!" "I don't mind," said Connor, "I want to learn." "It will be easier when we reach Rivendell and you hear native speakers," said Mimi, "Hearing elvish spoken with a cockney accent isn't the same as hearing the music of a Quenyan or Sindarin tongue." "How rude!" exclaimed Orlando, "I'm as musical as any other elf. How long until we reach Rivendell?" Mimi laughed, "About five minutes!" "What?" "That's Rivendell, straight ahead." Connor and Orlando peered over her shoulder and saw the beautiful citadel, situated within the valley of two steep mountains and surrounded by a river and waterfalls. "Oh my God, its even more beautiful than I thought," said Orlando as the cart descended into the valley. "So this is where you guys met hey?" said Connor. "Yep, almost twenty one years ago," said Legolas, "When this was an elven city, now it is merely the summer home of my dear friend Aragorn. Look over there, I think they've spotted us." In the distance they could make out a group of figures, waving frantically. "I think I can see Rose," said Orlando standing up and waving, "Hey Sis."
They were soon at the entrance to the elven citadel. "We've missed you all so much!" cried Arwen running to them, "And we've... hello Connor, what are you doing here?" "I hope you don't mind Your Majesty but I've come to stay if I may?" "I'm lost, why would you want to leave London?" said Arwen looking up at him. "Well you see Orlando, no, no Lorindol and I, well we're..." "We're together aunt Arwen," said Orlando, "Connor's come to be with me." "Oh Orli that's wonderful," she said as he hugged her, "And you're perfectly welcome amongst us Connor, I hope you find Rivendell to your liking." Connor smiled, "Its lovely Your Majesty." "Please, its Arwen, we have no titles amongst family. Come we have to see you introduced to everyone."
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN.
The day was a rapid blur of welcomes, introductions and unpacking. Finally escaping the clutches of his younger cousins as they were whisked off to bed by Roxie and Pippin, Orlando led Connor through the corridors of Rivendell. "Today has been madness," said Connor leaning his head on Orlando's shoulder as they walked, "I still can't believe I'm here." "Neither can I," said Orlando, "I've heard Mama speak of Rivendell so often but I never imagined it would be this beautiful." They walked out onto an open walkway overlooking a stone balcony and the falls beneath. Laughter from below caught their attention.
"Legolas? Where are we going?" asked Mimi as she allowed him to lead her, blindfolded, onto the balcony. He turned her to face the view and unfastened the blindfold, letting it fall to the floor, "Do you remember here Mellamin?" he said wrapping his arms around her waist. "Oh Legolas," said Mimi turning to him, "How could I forget?" She kissed him, the sleeves of her elven gown glittering as she wrapped her arms around his shoulders. Legolas released her and kissed her forehead softly, "Renech i lu i erui govannem?"
"What did he just say to her?" whispered Connor to Orlando. "Do you remember when we first met? They're speaking elvish, I'll translate for you if you want." Connor nodded as Mimi laughed below.
"Nauthannem i ned ol reniannen," she said brushing Legolas' hair back from his shoulders.
"I thought I'd strayed into a dream," translated Orlando.
"Gwenwin in enninath," said Legolas, "U-arnecha neath isi celich."
"Long years have passed, you did not have the cares you carry now," said Orlando.
Mimi kissed him, "I don't carry them alone now, not now I have you by my side. I can't believe this is where it all started. If you'd been a few seconds later I would have been..." Legolas pressed a finger to her lips, "But I wasn't. You looked so amazing that night." "You just enjoyed the fact that I had barely nothing on!" said Mimi sitting down on the ledge. Legolas sat beside her, "Well it was a bonus," he said as she leaned against him, "A lot of things changed for me that night. I'd never defied Elrond before and I'd definitely never been in love." Mimi wrapped one of his delicate plaits around her fingers, "Neither had I. I love you so much Legolas." "I love you too Miranda," said Legolas taking her hand. Mimi giggled. "What?" "This is my pledge to you. I swear by the stars to love you forever, whatever comes between us. My heart, my body, my spirit I give only to you until the day I die. So is my promise to you," said Mimi staring into his crystal eyes. Legolas smiled as his heart skipped a beat and then leapt into his throat, "And to you I give my heart for all eternity. My soul, my love, my immortality, all are your's. With the spirit of Imladris and my ancestors as my witnesses, I am sworn to you and only you. So is my promise to you my sweet Miranda. This is our beginning and this time we shall never be parted until the day we die." Taking her into his arms, he kissed her, "My beautiful princess," he whispered holding her tightly. "Isn't this the part of the fairytale where you sweep me into your arms and take my to paradise?" asked Mimi nuzzling him playfully. Legolas lifted her, "It always was my favourite part of the story my darling." Mimi cried out as he span her around, "Anyone would think we were children again," she said as she stopped. Legolas didn't speak as he carried her back inside.
"That was so romantic!" said Connor leaning over the balcony ledge and staring up at the stars. He felt Orlando's arms wrap around him and he leaned back against him. Orlando's sweet kisses sent his heart rate into a frenzy. He turned to him and captured his lips fully. "There's one line of elvish I want you to learn by morning," said Orlando releasing him, "So you can tell everyone about tonight." "And what's that?" said Connor slightly confused. "Nardane lye kaime e i'ranquie en'ilye n'at," said Orlando. "And that means...?" "Entwined we slept in eachother's arms. I love you Connor."
The next morning Connor and Orlando descended the stairs to the main hall only to be met by screams and cries from below. Orlando, instantly reaching for his daggers, ran to the hall with Connor following warily behind. They relaxed as they saw the scene before them. "You bastard elf!" cried Aragorn throwing half a bread roll at Legolas who dodged it easily. "Missed me!" he crowed flipping neatly into a nearby chair. Orlando suppressed a laugh as he saw Mimi sneak behind Legolas, carrying a jug of water, "Oh Angel!" Legolas turned only to be drenched as Mimi threw the contents of the jug over him. "That is it, you die!" Mimi squealed and fled away, diving behind Frodo, "Don't let him hurt me." "He won't get passed me," laughed Frodo. Merry dragged Mimi from behind Frodo and pinned her down, "Got her Legolas." "Hey! You're meant to be on our team," said Aragorn, "Legolas doesn't have any team members." "And when did you introduce that rule?" said Legolas, "You just made that one up." "Who's King?" said Aragorn. "Who's up himself?" said Legolas hurling the remnants of something from the table at him. The strange grey goo caught Aragorn's arm as he tried to dodge it and Legolas burst out laughing. "Right! That's it!" cried Aragorn running over to Legolas and lifting him onto his back, "You're going in the river." "No! Aragorn, no!" cried Legolas still laughing as he tried to wriggle free, "Miranda help me." "No chance sunshine, you're on your own." "What have you five been doing?" exclaimed Arwen entering form another door and surveying the mess. "Food fight," said Merry, "Men and hobbits versus elves but I'm on the elven team. You could even up the sides." "A food fight?!" cried Arwen, "How old are you lot? Aragorn put Legolas down, there's a good boy." Legolas came back to earth with a bump, "Ai! That hurt you orc!" "Don't be such a baby," said Mimi pulling him to his feet. Legolas ran a hand through his soaked hair, "You still need punishing." "Easy!" exclaimed Merry pointing over to Connor and Orlando, "Children present." "I'm not a child Uncle Merry," said Orlando as he and Connor walked into the hall. "Uck! Enough with the uncle business, makes me feel old," said Merry. "Good morning darling, morning Connor," said Mimi, "Did you sleep well?" Connor looked over at Orlando, a wicked smile passing over his handsome features. He nodded, "Nardane lye kaime e' i'ranquie en'ilye n'at," he said. "Nardane lye kaime...?" said Aragorn, "Connor do you..." Legolas put a hand over his mouth to stop him speaking further, "Just don't speak Aragorn, you'll only embarrass yourself." The whole room filled with laughter as Legolas was again over Aragorn's head and under threat of a trip to the river. Rose's call stopped them, "Aragorn! Aragorn!" she cried. "What is it my dear?" said Aragorn setting Legolas back on his feet. "A group comes to Rivendell but I can't see who they are, its just a white blur." "Be on your guard. I'm not expecting guests and the royal court always travels under the banner of Gondor," said Aragorn, "Stay here." He left the room. Orlando took a dagger from his belt and handed it to Connor, "In case things get heavy okay. Don't run into battle, you're untrained." Connor's eyes were wild with fear at Orlando's words. Orlando managed a weak smile, "Don't worry huney. Mama and Dad will keep you safe," he said kissing his forehead. Looking back up he saw both Legolas and Mimi strapping their quivers to their backs, bows drawn and loaded. Mimi moved to the window and Legolas covered the main door. Two potentially lethal assassins, poised to strike. "Connor, Orlando, go to Arwen," said Legolas, "The last thing we need is a pair of rookies..." "Its okay Mirky," said Aragorn coming back into the room, "It is no enemy. In fact, they are very good friends." Orlando thought his father was going to faint as a beautiful elven woman, somewhere near sixty, walked into the room. Legolas paled and dropped his bow, "Mother?" "Oh my sweet Legolas, how I've missed you child!" cried the elven woman as she ran to him and hugged him tightly. "Oh my God! I can't believe its really you!" said Legolas crying into her shoulder, "Why did you come back? You'll become mortal." "I think I can explain that," said another, younger blonde elf entering with a male escort. Legolas looked up and then dropped to his knees. Arwen, Mimi, Merry and Frodo did the same. "Lady Galadriel?" said Legolas, "You too have returned?" "That I have," said the Lady walking to him and raising him to his feet, "But I'm afraid it is not under the best circumstances. Arise, all of you. What I have to say concerns all within these houses who has a connection to the Fellowship. Elemmire, Celeborn, with me. Do not fret dear Legolas, you shall have time with your mother after my council." Elemmire kissed her son and followed Galadriel from the room. "The council shall commence in an hour," said Aragorn as he followed them. Rose and Orlando ran to their mother. "Mama what's happening? I thought Lady Galadriel and Grandmamma went to the havens," said Rose. "So did I," said Mimi, "Legolas, darling, we must make ready for the council." Legolas shook his head, trying to bring himself back to reality, "Yes, we must. Come children, Connor you too. Miranda, stay close, I don't like the sound of this."
The council soon gathered, with all those of consequence present. Roxie, Pippin, their children, the hobbits and their wives made one party. Then Aragorn, Elrond, Arwen and Boromir another, and finally Legolas, Miranda, Elemmire, Rose, Orlando and Connor. Galadriel and Celeborn took the head of the council. "Friends, comrades, new companions. A great darkness has returned to Middle Earth, a darkness that has potential to be greater than anything Sauron could create," said Galadriel, "and worst of all, this darkness comes from one of our own but the fall was not unexpected. Several months ago my ring, Nenya, was stolen from my very hand and then, three months ago, an assault was made on the haven citadel of Mirkwood." Mimi felt Legolas' grip tighten on her hand. Galadriel looked mournfully at him, "the attack was made by a group of Moriquendi and led by Prime Minister Pheobus. All were murdered, including King Thranduil and his children." Legolas shut his eyes desperately against his tears. Mimi was soon on her feet. She held him close to her, "My poor Angel," she said crying herself. "Why would Pheobus want to kill Grandpapa?" said Orlando, "They were friends." Elemmire knelt before them and took Orlando and Rose's hands, "that's what Thranduil thought but he was wrong. Pheobus deceived us all. He demanded Thranduil send someone to collect Legolas and put him on a boat for Valinor so that Pheobus could become Narya's bearer. When Thranduil refused, Pheobus flew into a frenzy and sent his orcs to murder everyone in the city. I escaped with Ceinwyn but her grief consumed her, she had been weakened since the day she was separated from her brother. She died just as we reached Galadriel." Legolas gripped tighter onto Mimi's doublet as his heart broke for his beloved sister. "When Elemmire told me what happened, I realised that it was Pheobus who had stole Nenya. We knew he would next attack Gondor for Vilya and Narya so we made for there only to find you had come here," said Galadriel. "That's what the attack at the tavern was all about," said Aragorn, "They weren't wraiths at all, just orcs with poisoned blades. But why attack the city and arouse suspicion when Pheobus could easily work in secret?" "My dear Aragorn," said Elemmire, "Pheobus had lost his mind! His desire for power has consumed him as it did Saruman so long ago. He just wanted to...to try..." Rose wrapped her arms around the elven queen, "Its okay Grandmamma." Orlando joined her, "Please don't cry, you're safe now." Elemmire smiled, "You two are such precious jewels, my sweet grandchildren. Legolas, Miranda they are such wonders." "I know," said Legolas wiping his eyes on his sleeve, "Finally everything falls into place. The attack, the ring, the messages at Gondor. It was him all along." "Very good Laiqalasse," came a sneering voice from nowhere, "Took you long enough but then you always were rather slow on the old uptake." "Pheobus!" hissed Legolas getting to his feet, "Show yourself or are you too much of a coward to fight fairly?" "Dear me, temper, temper! I see we inherited Papa's short fuse. I hope poor Mimi doesn't bear the brunt of it, you wouldn't want to hurt such a pretty thing. When I heard you'd returned to us Mimi I couldn't possibly not say hello. Wasn't it just outside where we first met? You and I have so many wonderful memories together, do you remember our first time darling?" said the voice still not taking form. Legolas held Mimi tightly as she tried to resist the tears that resulted from old wounds so frighteningly reopened by a few mere words. "And now I see we have some new friends. Your daughter is quite a beauty. I'd keep an eye on her if I were you," sneered Pheobus. Boromir was soon by Rose's side, "Just try anything you animal and you'll have problems." "Ah the young Boromir. Named after the hero...no, sorry, I mean the traitor of the Fellowship. I see I may have to bring you down a peg or two." "You can't win Pheobus," called Legolas, "We're united, a Fellowship and we can defeat your darkness the same way we defeated Sauron's." "The warrior prince speaks, and I thought you'd given that up for romance," said Pheobus, "You and Mimi still haven't lost your spark. The behaviour at Gondor was quite interesting to say the least." Mimi tensed in Legolas' arms. "Its okay Miranda, he can't hurt you," whispered Legolas. "Oh but you're wrong because I can hurt her, I just choose not to. Your children are far more appealing, well Rose anyway. The boy must be a crushing disappointment to you but that's the trouble with elven and mortal unions, they create such strange beings." "Touch my children and you'll pay dearly," said Legolas, his voice so cold that it frightened even Mimi who he still held warm and protected in his arms, "they've done nothing to you." "Actually none of you have done anything I'd hold a particular grudge over, I just like to see you suffer, I'm doing this for kicks. Well gotta go, you know what its like, evil moriquendi lord always busy, busy but don't worry, I'll be in touch very soon. Sleep tight." An oppression seemed to lift from the air as the voice faded away to nothing. The group was still and silent for a moment, the shock of everything overwhelming them all. Finally a voice came from and unexpected corner, "You have to fight back," said Connor getting to his feet, "You cannot let that thing beat you down." "We cannot fight an enemy that we cannot see," said Aragorn, "This is beyond anything we've ever faced." "Really? Surely it is the same as what you did before only this time the stakes are higher. You fought for Middle Earth against Sauron and I know I didn't see it but I read Lady Miranda's stories and when I took on your role in Orlando's play I learnt what it felt like to be part of such a great thing. Pheobus is merely an elf, okay so he has Nenya but you have Narya and Vilya and most importantly, eachother. Pheobus is one mind working alone but here stands a potential army. For God's sake you fought for your children twenty years ago, now let your children march with you against this new enemy. I know I'm new to this world but I've seen love here, determination, friendship. You've triumphed once and you can again and I intend to be part of it." "That goes for me too," said Orlando coming to his side. "And me," said Rose. "I was named after a hero of the Fellowship and I intend to honour that. I'm in," said Boromir. "I'm not running from a fight either," said Thomas, Pippin's eldest. "Well that's a mini Fellowship," said Orlando, "Now we wait for those who fought before to show us the way." The council was silent, shocked by the courage and determination of their children. Rose walked over to Legolas and knelt before him, "Your Majesty, King of Greenwood the Great, we beg for your aid," she said solemnly. "King?" said Legolas realisation dawning on him. He turned to Mimi for reassurance but she curtsied low before him. "Miranda don't!" he said looking close to tears. Mimi looked up at him, her eyes burning with a fire he had only seen once before, at the battle for Mount Doom, "Your Majesty, I follow your bidding. If you choose to lead our forces against the enemy I shall stand beside you," she said. Legolas raised her to her feet and then Rose, "For what he did to you," he said kissing Mimi's forehead, "And for the future of my children, I pledge myself to the Fellowship. You have my bow." Aragorn took Arwen's hand and they stepped forward, "Well the King of Gondor will not be outdone by the King of Mirkwood," he said with a smile, "Count me in. You have my sword." "I'm hardly royalty," said Pippin stepping forward, "But hey, for the Shire." "And Pip goes nowhere without me," said Roxie. "Or me," said Merry pushing into the group. "I said no more quests until Mimi tumbled back into the Shire," said Frodo, "But I think stepping equates to tumbling." "And you need someone to look after you Mister Frodo and I have to say, adventure's been on my mind since Mimi returned," said Sam coming to Frodo's side. Elrond got up and joined the group, "I missed out on all the Fellowship antics last time," he said, "I don't plan to again." "The Fellowship is set," said Galadriel, "The children join their elders against a new darkness. Now we wait for Pheobus' next move. Make sure Mimi, Legolas and Elrond are kept under close guard, they shall be prime targets for any attack. Be on your guard everyone." With that the council disbanded.
Legolas, Mimi, the twins and Connor went off with Elemmire and spent the rest of the day recounting the passed twenty years. The twins instantly loved their Grandmother and she loved them dearly. Even Orlando's relationship with Connor gained her total approval. As day moved into night, Elemmire began to tell her family tales of Legolas' younger life, something he found quite embarrassing. "And you know what?" said Elemmire as her story came to an end, "He got so drunk, when we found him he was lying in a ditch with half of Mirkwood knotted into his hair. Needless to say he suffered terribly the next morning." "Mother!" hissed Legolas as the others burst out laughing. "Oh my dear children," said Elemmire kissing Orlando and Rose, "When I hear your laughter you remind me so much of when your Father was a boy. He and his sister were such a pair, always in mischief. They'd either be terrorising the cook or their father, my dear Thranduil." She turned to Legolas and took his hand, "Had your father lived my darling he would have told you how sorry he was for what happened at Elbereth. Had he seen the children...well we cannot dwell on the past, we have such young lives to look forward to now. I dare say I have four grandchildren rather than two, for through my dear Lorindol and Namarie I have gained both Connor and Boromir." Connor smiled shyly, "Do I call you Grandmamma now then?" he asked. Elemmire laughed, "Why not?" she said hugging him, "You're such a sweet boy." "Hey, hey, hey Grandma, don't you be flirting with my boyfriend!" said Orlando. "Oh Lorindol!" exclaimed Elemmire, "I'm far too old for that. Besides, I don't think I'm his type." Their Grandmother's playful wink sent the children into giggles. "I think its time we let your Grandmother get some sleep," said Legolas getting to his feet. "Oh Legolas you always were to fussy over me, I could stay up for hours," protested Elemmire. "Mother, its late and you've had a long journey today. We'll see you in the morning," said Legolas kissing her cheek. "Oh alright," huffed Elemmire hugging him, "Goodnight darling. Goodnight Miranda." "Goodnight Elemmire," said Mimi joining Legolas by the door. "Now let's see if I can hug all three of you at once," said Elemmire turning to the children, "Goodnight, goodnight, goodnight," she said kissing all three. With final farewells they went their separate ways.
Legolas and Mimi went to their room. Two guards stood faithfully by their interior door. They stood to attention as the couple entered. "I'm not sure I like all this guard business," said Mimi locking the door, "Makes me feel like a prisoner." She turned to see Legolas standing with his back to her, staring at the heavy drapes that covered the balcony window and doors and hid the two other guards outside. "Are you okay Angel?" Legolas choked back a sob, "Not really," he said weakly. Mimi walked over to his and hugged him. He fell to his knees and clung around her waist, crying into the folds of her doublet. Mimi stroked his hair, trying to comfort him, "Hush, hush. Oh my poor love, I'm so sorry." "He killed my family Miranda and I never had the chance to say goodbye or tell them I loved them. And Ceinwyn, my beautiful, beautiful sister. She died because he broke her heart, he killed the only people she loved and the worst thing is that I never felt it. I never felt the loss, never felt her pain. What kind of a brother am I when I can't even hear my own sister's cries?" Mimi choked back her own tears as she felt his suffering, "Oh Legolas..." "I never had the chance to see my Father again, to show him our children. I know I said I couldn't forgive him for what he did to us but I thought if there was a way for him to see Orli and Rose he'd see our union had created such beautiful beings and..." Mimi raised him to his feet and kissed him softly. "Don't think of what might have been Legolas," she said loosening the clasps of his doublet and slipping it off his shoulders, "It will only make the pain worse, I know, I've been there." She sat him down on the dresser chair and began to gently unplait his hair, "When my parents died I was just a kid but I kept thinking what if I'd done this or that, would things have been different and I just worked myself into this terrible system of self punishment when the things that happened weren't through my fault. I know I didn't really know your family but they would not have wanted you to be sad or to grieve. It may sound stupid now Legolas but I've experienced the pain you're going through and I've learnt to live each minute as my last because of it. You won't have to endure this alone Angel. You have Elemmire, the children, our friends and you have me. I love you so much darling and I won't let you suffer through it alone. If you ever need a shoulder to cry on or just someone to scream blue murder at, I'll be there and I'll take it. Do you understand me?" Legolas got to his feet, pulled Mimi to him and kissed her, "what would I do without you Mellamin?" he said burying his face in her hair. "Now a what would is the same as a what if and I'm having none of that in my family Mister Greenleaf," said Mimi lifting his face to her's and wiping the tear stains from his cheeks, "You don't have to do without me because I'm going nowhere. Let's get some sleep hey? Tomorrow's another day and we have work to do." She began to move away but Legolas drew her back into his arms, "Miranda?" "Yes darling?" "I love you, you know that don't you?" said Legolas tilting her face to his. "Of course I know you silly thing! I love you too," said Mimi nuzzling against him. "I would wish for no-one else to be my queen," said Legolas kissing her as the world and his pain disappeared around him.
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN.
Several months passed solemnly in Rivendell and Gondor. The deaths of the royal family were mourned at a quiet ceremony for only those who were close to them. Equally quiet was Legolas and Miranda's investiture as the new king and queen. Everyone's comfort came from the children. They were seen as the future and a reason to fight on for Middle Earth. As December drew nearer Orlando and Rose planned a celebration for their parents' wedding anniversary. All the preparations were conducted in secret and this was aided as Mimi and Legolas travelled to Mirkwood to regain the lost city of Elbereth from the wood. They were accompanied by a great cortege of architects and labourers who would remain at the site to rebuild the city. Their return to Gondor was much celebrated and they thought nothing of anymore parties to come.
Legolas' kiss woke Mimi as the day of their anniversary dawned. She stirred and slowly opened her eyes, "Hey Angel," she said sitting up. She smiled as she saw the fine breakfast set on the table on the balcony, "Isn't it a little too cold to be eating outside?" she giggled. Legolas held his hands up in surrender, "Don't look at me Mellamin," he said, "That, out there, is the handy work of our beloved children. Here, read this." He handed her a note written in slightly wobbly Sindarin script. "To Mama and Papa. You always say your romance started with tea on Papa's balcony so we thought you could start your special day with breakfast on a balcony. Enjoy. We love you, Lorindol and Namarie," read Mimi, "How sweet! Those two can really do some wonderful things when they put their minds to it. Its strange getting used to calling them by their elven names now." "Rose...sorry Namarie, said they felt more comfortable with elven names now they are officially heirs to the throne. I am still unsure how they will cope when the time comes though," said Legolas. Mimi wrapped her arms around his neck, "That won't be for a long time. Can we please forget all these political decisions for today? I want my Legolas, not the King of Mirkwood." "Well if you insist," said Legolas pulling the ties from his hair, "There, am I your Legolas now?" Mimi laughed, "You are my Legolas but not my Angel." "Then how, pray tell, do I transform myself into your Angel?" said Legolas. Mimi's eyes flashed with a familiar fire, "Firstly, lose the shirt," she said tugging at the buttons and slipping it off his shoulders. She ran her hands over his chest and pressed her lips to his shoulder, "Now put your arms around me and kiss me." She leaned towards him but Legolas pulled back, "Uh-uh my love," he said taking her hands, "Now I am your Angel I want my Miranda." "I am your Miranda," said Mimi innocently. "But before me I see the Queen of Mirkwood," said Legolas kissing the backs of her hands. "So how would you have me as your Miranda?" said Mimi as he lay beside her. He pressed his lips to the rose tattooed on her arm and pulled the strap of her nightdress off her shoulder. His azure eyes glittered with laughter, "To be my Miranda..." he said in between kisses, "...lose the nightdress!" "Be iest lîn Your Majesty!" giggled Mimi as he pulled the blankets over their heads.
As the sun hit midday there was a knock on Mimi's door, "Mama? Papa?" Legolas groaned, "I knew our peace wouldn't last," he said as he raised himself up on an elbow, "What is it Lorindol?" "Are you guys planning on making an appearance today? What have you been doing to my Mother all morning?" said Orlando through the door. "Watch it you!" said Legolas, "What goes on in this room is strictly between your mother and me." "Well I'm glad of that. Anyone else and I'd be worried," laughed Orlando, "Could you possibly drag yourselves away from your little love nest and come downstairs? We have a surprise for you." "We'll be there in a while," said Legolas. "Okay. Later." Mimi looked up at him through her heavy lashes, "Do we have to get up A'maelamin? I want to stay here with you all day," she said pulling him down into her arms. She kissed him, gently running her fingers down his back. He pulled away, "Miranda we can't!" he laughed as she pulled him on top of her, "Tonight. I promise." Mimi pouted prettily, "But I want you now!" "Don't look at me like that Miranda, you know I can't resist those eyes of your's. Besides, you've had enough of me already this morning." Mimi's eyes softened as she ran her fingers down his cheek, "That's impossible my love. I could never have enough of you." Legolas kissed her and then climbed out of bed, dressing once again in his discarded clothes. He turned to Mimi, "Are you going to get out of bed today at all? Put some clothes on woman! We'll have Aragorn banging the door down next." Mimi laughed, "I wish I had that white dress I wore when we got married," she said, "I've got so many lovely clothes but that was the most beautiful thing I've ever worn." Legolas bent down and pulled something from under the bed, "I know we said no presents Mellamin but I had a feeling you'd say something like that," he said handing her a box, "Open it." "Legolas, you shouldn't have," she said opening the box, "I...oh my God!" In the parcel lay an exact replica of her dress, "Oh Legolas, how did you do this? Its beautiful!" she cried hugging him. "Only the best for you my love. I had Galadriel help Aragorn's tailors create it. I want you to wear it today, it will make it seem like our wedding day again," said Legolas kissing her. Mimi smiled mournfully, "Now I feel guilty. You shouldn't keep buying me such nice things when I give you nothing in return." "I neither want or need any gifts. Having you beside me again is the only thing I need...along with mornings like the one you've just given me. Besides, I like spoiling you, you're my princess." "Actually darling, I'm your Queen!" "You know what I mean!" said Legolas.
They dressed and headed down into the main hall but it was deserted. Before they could turn to leave, their eyes were covered with blindfolds. "What the...?" cried Legolas. "Relax Papa, its us," said Orlando as he and Rose fastened the ties. "What is going on?" said Mimi as the twins led them away. "We have a surprise for you," said Rose. "We gathered that much," said Legolas, "How long have you two been planning this?" "Long enough," said Orlando. He opened the door and Legolas could feel the presence of a large crowd even though he couldn't see. "Can we take the blind folds off now?" asked Mimi. "Just a moment," said Orlando, "Now the tale of your elopement to Nimrodel is famous throughout Middle Earth but you've never been married under elven law, until today." They loosened the blind folds and they fell to the floor. Legolas and Mimi stood speechless as they stared in amazement at their friends and the wedding altar set up where Aragorn and Arwen's thrones once stood. "You...you...oh my God...you want us to get married?" said Legolas. Orlando nodded. Legolas looked down at Mimi and smiled, "What do you say Mellamin? Do you fancy becoming Mrs Greenleaf? Officially?" Mimi giggled, "I suppose, if you proposed that is!" she said. "Propose? Okay," said Legolas getting onto one knee in front of her, "My darling Miranda, would you do me the honour of becoming my wife?" "Yes," said Mimi raising him to his feet, "Now get me down that aisle before I change my mind."
The service was brief but special. Once their initial giggles were out of the way, Mimi and Legolas took it seriously, exchanging their vows and accepting Galadriel's blessing accordingly. When the service was over they were ushered back to the great hall where an enormous banquet had been prepared for them. "Your Majesty," said Aragorn showing them to two chairs at the head of the table. "Oh Aragorn this is all too much!" said Mimi hugging him. "You two deserve it," said Aragorn, "You've worked so damn hard these passed few months, you need a good party. Happy anniversary my dear friends." "And who better to spend such a day with than my surviving brothers and sisters," said Legolas with a slight air of sadness, "Pheobus may have taken those of my blood from me but he cannot take my friends." "Do not think of such sad things today my dear," said Elemmire coming to his side and kissing his cheek. "Have you been eaves dropping Mother?" said Legolas. "What gave you that idea?" said Elemmire, her eyes sparkling with laughter, "I think I'm allowed to be curious about my son, especially on his wedding day." "Just ignore him Elemmire," giggled Mimi, "He's just getting old." "Old?" said Legolas, "Less of that you!" "Ooh have I started divorce proceedings?" said Elemmire as they sat down at the table. "Never," said Legolas taking Mimi's hand. "Romantic nonsense!" chirped Merry from slightly down the table, "You're far too soft hearted Legolas." "Be quiet, small thing! Or I'll have to come down there and sort you out!" retorted Legolas. "Is that a challenge?" said Frodo. "Mirkwood versus the Shire?" said Mimi raising an eyebrow, "Ooh it'll go down in history as the most hair brained war ever." "More like hair FOOTED war!" said Roxie. With that the table erupted into laughter.
Hours passed and the party continued well into the night. As the dance ended, Galadriel pushed her way through the couples to Mimi and Legolas. "Come to ask for your nephew's hand Aunt?" said Legolas. "Perhaps later my dear, I need to speak to Miranda." "Is everything okay My Lady?" said Mimi. Galadriel forced a smile, "Of course child, fear not. Its just a private matter. We'll be but a moment Legolas, your heart shan't be forced to pine for long." Mimi turned to Legolas, "Angel?" "Go on huney. I'll go and see the children," said Legolas. "And miss me?" said Mimi. Legolas kissed her, "Of course. Miranda I miss you when I blink!" "Oh please!" said Mimi laughing as she left the floor with Galadriel and headed into a quiet corridor. "What do you have to tell me Galadriel?" asked Mimi, "Why could Legolas not hear?" "I did not know how the news would be received by him considering the stress he's under," said the elven sorceress. "News?" said Mimi fear falling over her features. Galadriel took her hand, "Miranda, my dear, do you feel any different in yourself?" "I'm more tired than usual but that's just due to all the travelling and work Legolas and I have done since his coronation. He's as tired as I," said Mimi. "Your tiredness is on a different plain child. His cannot come from the same source as your's," said Galadriel. "Please don't talk in riddles," pleaded Mimi, "I'm scared you're going to say something I won't like." "I doubt it my dear. A mother is not usually upset when she hears she is pregnant." It took Mimi a moment to register her words but then her eyes widened in delight, "Pregnant? Me? Oh Galadriel you don't know how wonderful it is to hear such news! Legolas and I have been trying for a baby since we returned from London," said Mimi hugging her. "I take it that he shall take the news well then?" said Galadriel. "He'll be overjoyed," said Mimi, "But how do you know?" "You have had that look about you for nearly a month. You mortals are so open about your feelings that we elves know exactly what's going on even before you do," said Galadriel. "Then why hasn't Legolas realised?" "Miranda, please. He may be an elf but he's also a male. They don't vary between our peoples. They wouldn't know emotion if it jumped up and bit them on the arse!" Mimi laughed, "I don't know," she said with a sly smile, "Legolas is an expert at responding to mine." "That's obvious enough!" said Galadriel as they returned to the hall.
Mimi ran to Legolas and threw her arms around him, kissing him. "Whoa! Miranda," said Legolas as she released him, "What's got into you?" Mimi couldn't resist the irony, "You've got into me!" she laughed, "Oh Angel I love you." "Easy Tiger!" said Connor, "Bloody newly weds." "Say what you will Connor. Nothing will change my behaviour today," said Legolas, "Now Miranda my sweet, what are you talking about?" Mimi was about to speak but then looked down at Rose, Boromir, Orlando and Connor, "I'll tell you later," she said kissing him, "Right now I fancy a dance, something...elven!" Legolas was to the floor in a shot.
Finally leaving their friends to the party, Legolas and Mimi slipped away to their room. "What is it you have to tell me Mellamin?" said Legolas locking the door. "Come here," said Mimi beckoning him to her, "Now look at me and tell me if you see anything different." Legolas regarded her quizzically, "What are you talking about my love? You're the same as always, beautiful." "Galadriel was right, you males are useless. Okay I'll give you some clues," said Mimi, "Its little, very little at the moment. We have two already and..." She lay his hand on her stomach, "We've wanted one for ages." Legolas smiled, "You're not...? Oh Miranda that's fantastic," he said kissing her, "You wonderful, wonderful woman! How do you know? How far gone are you? Ed'i'ear ar'elenea! I'm going to be a father again. I love you, I love you." Mimi hugged him tightly, "Its what Galadriel wanted to see me about. I'm only a month gone so we need to keep it quiet for a while okay, its bad luck to announce it before the third month anyway," she said. "Keep quiet?! Oh dear you may have to gag me for two months. This is the best news I've had in ages," said Legolas, "I suppose this means I'm given up to celibacy for the next eight months!" "Oh no way Mister Greenleaf!" said Miranda, "It didn't stop us this morning." She leapt into his arms. "Whoa! Easy girl!" laughed Legolas, "Hey I think I might get you pregnant more often, I could get used to this!" he said carrying her over to the bed.
Eight months passed by in Middle Earth and the news of the impending birth was joyously welcomed. The Fellowship had travelled to Rivendell for the summer but two months before Mimi's child was due, Legolas was called away to Mirkwood to approve the latest developments at Elbereth. Mimi was forced to remain in Rivendell for fear that she may go into labour far from any settlements. It was a difficult parting for the couple as Legolas feared he may not return in time for the birth and Mimi loathed to spend any time out of his company. As another morning dawned, Mimi again woke alone. She glanced down at the empty space beside her and felt her heart sink once again. She ran her hand along the sheets and then pressed her face into Legolas' pillow but it was cold and brought her no comfort. She sat up and ran her finger over her wedding band, "Hurry home Mela en'coiamin," she said. She felt her child move inside her and lay her hand on her all too obvious bump, " 'Quel amnim little one," she said, "Do you miss your Papa too? He will be home soon, time enough to see you enter the world." She climbed out of bed and dressed. She stared at her reflection, sick of the frumpy maternity dresses her current condition afforded her, "I look like a beached whale," she muttered. She glanced down at her dresser and picked up the letter Legolas had sent her a week ago. She knew the words off by heart but she read it all the same;
"Darling Miranda,
How the days drag without you here my sweet! Every minute seems more like a year. How I wish I could be in Imladris with you and the others. Lorindol is welcome company of course but he can hardly make up for you. The city is beautiful, you'd love it. The architects have keep mostly to our plans but with a few structural alterations and barely any trees have been touched so the natural beauty of our realm remains undiminished. Hope the little one isn't keeping you up or beating you too much. Make sure you get plenty of rest, I know you say you are but you forget that I know you far too well. I can guarantee you haven't been sitting still or resting while I've been gone. Politics and the affairs of our state can wait, you and the baby are more important, besides, it will give Lorindol something to do when he gets home. I wish I was with you darling, I miss waking up beside you and being able to shower you with kisses when you wake. I shall try to reach home before the birth. I am scheduled to leave Mirkwood tomorrow so this letter should only proceed me by a day or two. Keep safe and make sure you rest well. Amin mella lle, Legolas."
Mimi held the letter to her chest and bit back her tears, "You should be home," she said picking up the framed polaroid that reminded them still of their younger care free days, "Oh Legolas how I miss you, please come home." Putting the photo and the letter down, she pulled on a cape and left the room.
Mimi had walked for several minutes until she heard a familiar call, "Mimi! Wait up!" She turned as Aragorn came up to her. " 'Quel amnim," she said hugging him. "Good morning. How's the little one? And you as well? You look upset," he said. "I'm fine, just tired and achey," said Mimi, "I was just going for a walk, I'd love you company." "As you wish Your Majesty," said Aragorn offering her his arm and heading towards the gardens. They passed several minutes in trivial conversation but Aragorn could tell from her voice that Mimi had other things on her mind. "Mimi? What is the matter my friend?" he asked. "Nothing," said Mimi shaking her head, "Its just...I fear Legolas will not be home soon enough to be at the birth and he really wanted to be there this time." She choked on a sob, "Oh Aragorn I miss him so much." "Hey Mimi don't cry, he'll be here, I know he will," said Aragorn hugging her. "You're probably right," said Mimi wiping her eyes, "I'm sorry. My emotions are pretty shot at the moment. I just miss waking up beside him, it sometimes feels..." "Like you're back in London alone, like you were with Lorindol and Namarie?" finished Aragorn. Mimi nodded, "I know its silly but the other night I had this dream that I woke up in that rusty bed in my horrible flat and he wasn't there anymore. I just want him with me." "He'll be home soon. You said yesterday that his last letter said he'd only be a few days," said Aragorn. "But I received that letter a week ago! I worry about him too, Pheobus is still a threat. His letters do bring me comfort though. When I read them I can hear his voice, as if he was reading them to me. They are trivial, merely professions of love and how he misses me, nagging me to rest, just Legolas but on paper. Sweet letters that fill my heart with love and my eyes with tears," said Mimi. "He is turning you into a poet," said Aragorn, "Legolas is such an old..." "Ai-ie!" "Mimi what's wrong?" said Aragorn as she cried out. She recovered herself, "Nothing. I'm just being internally beaten again. This little on...Ai!" she cried. "That wasn't a kick, that was a contraction," said Aragorn, "And don't try to tell me it wasn't." "It can't be, its too soon. Legolas should be here!" cried Mimi. "It looks like Baby doesn't intend to wait for him. Let's get you inside, I'll send for Galadriel," said Aragorn supporting her. "I don't want Galadriel, I want my husband!" said Mimi sinking to her knees. Aragorn knelt beside her, "I know my friend and he is with you, even if you cannot see him. I know his only thoughts are of you and the baby." Mimi held onto him and cried, "I'm frightened Aragorn. What if something goes wrong and he's not here?" "Nothing will go wrong. This is the most natural thing in the world for you and you shall have Arwen and Galadriel with you. Let's get inside." Supporting her round her waist, he led her into the building.
A cloud of dust surrounded two galloping horses as they were pulled to a halt by their elven riders. Legolas jumped down and turned to Orlando, "Oh how I've missed this place! We may call Mirkwood home but this place...this is my true home." "Papa, to you, home is wherever Mama lies beside you," said Orlando. "And I have no doubt the same applies to you and Connor," said Legolas watching his son suppress a smile, "Admit it Lorindol, you've missed him." "Of course I have, I love him, I..." "Your Majesty! King Laiqalasse!" cried a young elf maid coming out of the building at a run. "Slow down my dear," said Legolas, "And there is no need to shout quite so loud." "But it is Her Majesty, Your Grace," said the girl, "She is in labour." "Shit Miranda!" cried Legolas, "Lorindol, see to the horses. I must get to your Mama." He ran from the stables.
Rounding the corner on the bright corridor, Legolas ran straight into Aragorn who was pacing the floor frantically. "Whoa! What the...Legolas! You're here!" "Of course I'm here! Where's Miranda?" said Legolas unfastening his cape. "In there," said Aragorn pointing to the nearest door. Legolas handed him his cape, hat and daggers, "How is she?" "Still in labour. Don't ask me questions! Go to her!" Legolas needed no further prompting as he flung open the door and ran into the room. Mimi looked up as he ran in, "Oh my love!" she cried, "Angel I thought you weren't going to make it." He went to her and took her hand, kissing her, "You think I'd miss this. How are you?" "In pain," she said gripping his hand as another contraction tore through her, "It shouldn't be long now. I'm so glad you're with me." "So am I. I've missed you so much Mellamin." Mimi couldn't answer him.
Orlando and Rose had been outside Mimi's room with Aragorn for nearly and hour, "I hope she's okay," said Rose. "She's fine," said Aragorn, "She has your Papa with her." Orlando was about to speak when the sound of a baby's cry echoed from the room. They exchanged excited glances and waited impatiently for the door to be opened and for them to be beckoned inside. Arwen ran out of the room, "It is a girl! Mirkwood has a new princess!" she cried ushering them inside. Mimi sat on the bed, covered by the blankets up to her waist with Legolas beside her and a tiny bundle in her arms. She looked up and smiled, "Come and meet your new sister," she said. The twins ran over to their parents and stared down at the baby. "She's so beautiful," said Rose, "Her hair's really dark." "An Andalusian, like your mother," said Legolas. "What do you plan to call her?" asked Orlando. "I...oh God, we never decided on a girl's name," said Mimi. "I have one though," said Legolas, "Which I'm sure you'll love." "What?" said Mimi. "Let us call her Francesca, after your mother," said Legolas. Mimi smiled and kissed his cheek, "I adore it but may I suggest a middle name?" Legolas looked at her quizzically, "What do you have in mind?" "Ceinwyn," said Mimi softly, "To honour your sister." Legolas was speechless. His eyes filled with tears and the twins and all those present thought he would protest but then he managed to smile, "Could we? Ceinwyn would have loved that." Mimi lay the tiny child in his arms, "Then she shall be Francesca Ceinwyn Greenleaf, princess of Mirkwood." "What a beautiful name!" said Elemmire as she came into the room, "It has my blessing." She came over to the bed and sat down next to the twins, "What do you think of your new sister then?" "She couldn't be more perfect. A baby suits you Dad," said Orlando. Arwen laughed, "He's had enough practice with Boromir and Roxie's brood." "I was an over glorified babysitter!" said Legolas as Mimi lay against him. "You look exhausted Mama," said Rose. "I am," said Mimi, "Keep off the kid thing with Boromir for a while okay? Its exhausting work." "She won't stop practicing though!" said Orlando. Rose blushed so deeply it made everyone laugh. "You are very cruel to your sister Lorindol," said Aragorn, "I think we should leave your parents and Francesca alone for a while." With calls of farewell the room emptied. Mimi smiled as she watched her husband with their new daughter, "I wish I'd seen you like that with Lorindol and Namarie," she said as Legolas kissed the child's forehead softly. "I wish I'd been this way with them. I don't think I've ever seen anything so perfect, she's so tiny." The baby started to cry. "And hungry by the sound of things," said Mimi. "You'd better take over," said Legolas laying the child in her arms, "Will you want a nurse for her? Arwen had one for Boromir." "No, I'm a mother and I'll do everything that entails," said Mimi softly, "I couldn't part with her, even for a few hours." Legolas kissed her softly but Francesca began crying even harder. "Demanding isn't she?" said Legolas climbing behind Mimi and letting her lean back against him as the baby quieted, contented. "She takes after her Papa," said Mimi kissing his cheek, "Sing for us, I want her to know all your songs." "As you wish my love," said Legolas, "For my beautiful Francesca;
"When the cold of winter comes..."
CHAPTER NINETEEN.
Three peaceful years passed by and Pheobus' threat became a distant memory. Francesca grew and was loved by all in the palace. Legolas, Mimi and Orlando spent their time between Gondor and Mirkwood, visiting Rivendell in the summer. Rose remained in Gondor with Boromir and they were as close as Rose's parents had been at their age. Legolas and Mimi were loved in Mirkwood so much so that, to show their utter trust in the royal family, the people voted Orlando into the office of Prime Minister. It was late December and everyone was in residence in Gondor for a most joyous occasion. Mimi and Legolas walked through the corridors of Ecthelian, brushing the remnants of their daughter's wedding confetti off their heavy dress robes. Mimi, still quite emotional after seeing her daughter married to Boromir, snuggled closer to Legolas as a cold wind blew through the drafty palace. Legolas hugged her tightly, the sleeves of his robes making an extra layer of warmth around Mimi's shoulders. "Curse this weather!" he hissed, "I'm glad I left the fire going in our room, this place is worse than Caradhas." "At least we know both our elder children will be warm tonight," said Mimi nuzzling his neck. "I believe they have been for many moons Mellamin. This wedding was merely a formality brought about by Aragorn. If Namarie and Boromir had had their way I doubt there would have been one," said Legolas rubbing Mimi's hands with his own to warm them. "You think they would have been young and impetuous like us and run off to Lorien together?" giggled Mimi. "Darling it's the only way to get married," said Legolas leading her into their room and closing the door, "And I highly recommend it. Finally a fire!" "Weren't we supposed to fetch Francesca from the nursery?" said Mimi as she changed into her nightdress and came back over to Legolas. He wrapped his arms around her and buried his face in her hair, "I asked Susan to take her tonight. I want you all to myself, besides, you deserve a break from motherhood. You work so hard, I still think you should sign some of your duties over to Lorindol." "And I've told you that I don't want to. I'm your queen and I want the responsibilities that go with the post. You wouldn't know what to do without me anyway!" said Mimi sitting down on the recliner and letting him lay back against her. She stroked his hair with her fingertips, "Legolas, my love, are you happy?" "I couldn't be more happy," said Legolas closing his eyes against her, "Why do you ask?" "No reason. I suppose I just wanted an excuse to tell you how happy I am!" "Are we going to get soppy with eachother?" laughed Legolas, "I'd prefer other things." "Other things?" said Mimi innocently, "Whatever do you mean?" "Your words are sweet, Miranda but they do not make up for your other talents," said Legolas turning to her and lying against her shoulder, his hands finding their way beneath the soft chiffon of her nightdress. "Oh I understand," said Mimi, "You want me to sing for you. Very well my..." She was silenced as Legolas kissed her, "Say one more word and I'll introduce a treason law banning it!" he said. Mimi laughed and traced a pattern down his cheek with her fingertip, "Back onto politics are we?" "No we are not back onto politics!" said Legolas with a sigh as her evasion began to frustrate him, "I want you." "But I might want to discuss politics. I am, after all, Queen of Mirkwood and equally concerned with the running of our kingdom." Legolas got up and pulled her to her feet, "Right, that's it! You may be my queen darling but I am your king and your husband and I command you to forget subjects as boring as politics and kiss me." Mimi ran her hands over his shoulders, "Pulling rank on me, are you?" she giggled. "I'm pulling more than rank Mellamin, come here!" said Legolas sweeping her easily into his arms. The moment was interrupted by a knock on the door. Legolas broke away from Mimi's kiss, "If that's Lorindol with more government questions I swear to God he won't live until tomorrow," he hissed. "Just ignore him. He'll run off to Connor's arms soon enough," said Mimi turning his face back to her's. "Legolas? Miranda? Are you still up?" "Boromir?" said Mimi pulling her nightdress back onto her shoulders, "You'd better see what he wants." Legolas opened the door, "Aren't you meant to be with my daughter?" he asked with a smile, "You only have to ask my permission for her hand not anything else you know?" Boromir's face told Legolas this was no laughing matter. "Is something wrong Boromir?" "Is Namarie with you?" asked the young prince. Mimi came to the door, hurriedly dressed in her doublet and trousers, "Rose? No. I thought she'd be with you." "She said she had to talk to you. I just came to fetch her," said Boromir. Mimi looked confused, "We haven't seen her since the reception. Have you tried Lorindol?" "Not yet," said Boromir, "I'll go now." "Wait," said Legolas catching his arm, "I'm going with you, just give me a second." Legolas disappeared into the room and returned with his quiver strapped to his back and his bow in his hand. He handed Mimi her daggers. She looked up at him, "Angel?" "I don't like the sound of this Miranda. Its not like Namarie." Mimi took the daggers and followed Legolas and Boromir to Orlando's room.
Boromir knocked on the door but there was no reply. Legolas moved to the door, "Lorindol! Connor! Look if either of you are in there answer the door, this is important." There was a muffled conversation within and a moment later Orlando stepped out of the room, hurriedly fastening a robe around him, "Dad!" he hissed, "This is hardly a good time." Mimi giggled. "Lorindol have you seen your sister?" asked Legolas ignoring his son's blush. "Namarie? Take a wild guess as to where she is! She's probably shagging...hey Boromir...wait! You're meant to be with my sister...am I missing something here?" "Lorindol?" came Connor's voice from the room, "What's going on out there?" "Hang on a moment," called Orlando back, "Dad what's going on?" "I don't know. Get dressed and arm yourself, Connor too." "But Dad..." "Your sex life can wait! I have a terrible feeling." Orlando's face fell, "Now you mention it I've kept getting these telepathic kicks now and again but I was ignoring her," he said closing his eyes. He fell back against the door and opened his eyes, "Shit Rose!" He bolted back into his room. "About bloody..." "Shut it Connor and get dressed. Something's happened to Rose," said Orlando. Moments later both he and Connor emerged, roughly dressed and armed. "Fucking telepathy, wish I couldn't ignore her. She's screaming!" said Orlando bolting down the corridor. The others followed him as he led them down to the gardens. He came to the edge of one of the ponds and stopped. He bent and picked up a silver and diamond pendant. "Namarie's necklace," said Boromir taking it from him, "Namarie! Rose!" "Oh don't worry about all that screaming," came a mocking voice from the shadows, "It gives me such a headache and she can't hear you." "Pheobus!" hissed Legolas as the elven Prime Minister emerged from the shadows. "Hello Your Highness...oh no its Your Majesty now isn't it. What ever happened to Daddy dearest?" said Pheobus laughing, "Oh yes, I remember, I murdered him!" Boromir ran at Pheobus but, with a flick of his hand, the elven sorcerer sent a torrent of water from the pond to knock him back, "Don't try to be clever!" "Where's my daughter?" said Legolas. "You know, I've never understood why people ask that question in these kind of situations. Like I'm going to tell you! It would spoil my fun." Legolas took the chain from around his neck and held it out to Pheobus, "you want Narya, take it. Just give me back my child." "Again to easy," said Pheobus moving towards him, "If I wanted Narya I could take it but I have some business to deal with first. You see, a while ago now my feelings were so very deeply hurt by a mortal prostitute but I think darling Rose could put that right again," he said. "No!" cried Mimi, "Pheobus don't hurt her please! I beg you!" "What right have you to beg me for mercy? I sent you from this world but you insisted on returning. You are a fool to believe I would listen to your pleas," hissed Pheobus. "You said once you loved me," said Mimi, seemingly cool but Legolas could see her hands shaking, "Can you not find that love and spare my daughter?" "Any love I had for you Miranda is dead! Your daughter is mine!" Unable to resist her hate any longer, Mimi flew at him but he sent her down with a spell from Nenya, "Don't you ever learn?" "Don't you dare touch my daughter!" hissed Mimi getting to her feet. "Don't touch my daughter!" mocked Pheobus, "What will you do to me if I do? You're hardly a threat my dear. I have to go, I don't want to keep the fair princess waiting now do I?" In a flash a great pillar of water surrounded him and he was gone. As Pheobus disappeared a group of Moriquendi, twisted and sick from the evil that consumed them, came from the shadows and attacked the small band. Alerted by the cries and the noise of the ensuing battle, the palace guards were soon in the fray. Outnumbered by three to one, the Moriquendi were soon lying dead in the gardens of Ecthelian. "What were those things?" asked Connor pulling his dagger from a still writhing body. "Dark elves," said Legolas, "Elves taken by shadow but who are not yet orcs." Mimi fell to her knees beside her husband, crying into her hands, "what do we do Legolas? To think the fate that should have befallen me is now...I can't bear it," she said as he knelt beside her and held her to him, "She's just a child. She must be so frightened." "I swear we'll find her Miranda. We'll find her and Pheobus will pay for any crimes against her." The group turned as they heard the sound of running footsteps from the palace. Aragorn was first to them, followed by Arwen and Elrond. "What happened here? Are you guys okay?" Boromir ran to his father and hugged him, "Rose is gone," he cried gripping onto Aragorn's robes. "What?" said Elrond, "Gone? Gone where?" "She was taken by Pheobus," said Orlando barely resisting his own tears. "Pheobus!" hissed Elrond in disbelief, "But I thought..." "It would appear that we have been too complacent," said Legolas helping Mimi to her feet, "Assemble the Fellowship. Rose's life is in danger."
Roxie, Pippin, Thomas, Frodo, Sam and Merry were soon with the remainder of the Fellowship in the main hall, armed and confused. "What's happened?" asked Roxie taking in Mimi's mournful expression. Legolas, his remorse showing through despite his vain attempts to keep a brave face, took the front of the group, "Rose has been taken by Pheobus but we don't know where," he said, "Even with my offer to give him Narya in return for her safety he would not release her." "What can we do then?" asked Sam. "Unite Narya and Vilya," said Merry, "Surely together they are stronger than Nenya alone." "Stronger yes," said Elrond, "But too volatile. The elven rings can either be used alone or as a trinity. The two elements would not balance without Nenya." "Well then use them alone," said Frodo. "If we knew where Rose was, we could," said Legolas, "But we cannot do anything until then. Nenya's powers have been increased by Pheobus' dark magic, that's why he could use it to appear and disappear as the Ash Nazg once did for its bearer." "We can't just sit around and wait for Pheobus to tell us where Rose is," cried Boromir, "You heard what he said, what he plans to do. I won't stand by and let my wife be hurt by that creature!" "You think I want to stand aside and let him touch my daughter?" said Legolas. "Well I don't see you coming up with any plans to save her!" said Boromir. "Stop it the pair of you!" cried Mimi, "Getting at eachother's throats is the worst thing you could do for Rose. Have some sense. Jesus Legolas what is it with you and Boromirs? Where would Pheobus have his stronghold?" Legolas slipped his hand into her's and shook his head, "I don't know." "Well we can rule the havens out," said Orlando, "We know he can't go back there." "Mordor?" asked Connor. "No, too clichéd," said Roxie, "Pheobus would want to make his own mark and besides, Mount Doom would be active if evil had returned to the wastelands." "Where else could he go?" asked Thomas, "Mirkwood?" Mimi shook her head, "Our citadel would be too close, he would be noticed." "Lorien?" said Pippin, "That's been deserted for years." "Lorien is sacred elven land even without Caras Galadhron there, any evil and we'd feel it," said Arwen. "Well where else is there?" said Frodo, "The Shire!" "You could try Moria," said a deep, gravelly voice from the door. "Gimli!" cried Aragorn in disbelief. "I came to warn you," said the Dwarven lord, "But it appears I may have arrived too late. I know where that elf's stronghold is." "Tell us Gimli," said Legolas, "He has taken our daughter." "He is in Moria, at Khazad-Dum." "Khazad-Dum?" said Mimi, "But how do you know that? I thought you swore your people would never return there." "With the mines of Erebor completed and knowing that Gandalf had defeated the Balrog, our people decided to claim Dwarrowdelf back from the orcs and goblins. We sent scout troops but they found more than orcs. There are Moriquendi there, twisted, evil elves, worse than anything I've ever seen. Pheobus was at their head. That is where you will find Princess Rose." "Then that's where we'll go," said Mimi making for the door. "Miranda wait!" called Aragorn, "I know you want to reach Rose but the road to Moria is long and we must prepare." "But Aragorn..." "Aragorn is right Mellamin," said Legolas, "We'll do Rose no good if we run in there unprepared. Can we be ready by morning?" Aragorn nodded, "I'll see that it is so. We'll find her Mimi, I promise you." Mimi nodded and let Legolas lead her back to their room.
Opening the balcony doors, she walked out into the cold night and stared up at the stars. Legolas came out to her and wrapped a cape around her shoulders, "Come inside darling, you'll freeze," he said. Mimi choked back a sob, "Where is she Legolas? Where's our baby?" Legolas hugged her, "I wish I knew," he said his voice cracking with emotion. "She must be so frightened," said Mimi burying her face in his doublet. "She is strong, she'll fight Pheobus' evil. She has her mother's spirit. A si i-dhúath á-orthor Miranda. U or le a ú or nin." "I wish I could believe you," said Mimi letting him lead her back inside. Legolas took the daggers from around her waist and lay her down on the bed. Covering her with a blanket, he pushed her hair from her face. "Try to sleep my love," he said kissing her forehead, "We have a long journey ahead of us." "I can't sleep," said Mimi trying to sit up but Legolas pushed her back down. "Hush. Yes you can, you're tired," he said stroking her brow, gently he moved two fingers to either side of her head, "I'ared..." Mimi pulled back, "Don't even try any of that elvish voodoo of your's on me!" she said sitting up. "It will help Miranda." "I can't sleep! What if he's still around?" cried Mimi. "I'll stay awake," promised Legolas, "Please Mellamin, try to sleep, you'll only make things worse if you're tired." "How can you be so calm about all this?" cried Mimi pushing him away and getting off the bed. She stormed over to the corner of the room and lent on the desk. "You call this calm?!" said Legolas, his voice strained, "I'm not calm, I'm as petrified as you are!" Mimi's fingers brushed the delicate white rose in the vase beside their picture, "Oh Angel!" she cried turning back to him, her eyes bright with tears. She ran to his arms and held him tightly, "I feel so helpless." "I know," he said kissing her hair, "We have to be strong though, for Rose." Sitting her down beside him, Legolas wrapped a blanket around her. Mimi slipped her wedding ring off her finger and handed it to him, "Here, you'll need this." Legolas shook his head and placed it back on her hand, "Not yet," he said closing his hand around her's, "Keep it on for tonight." Mimi looked up into his eyes and caught the glimmer of what was in his mind, "We will both live through this Legolas," she said reaching up to his cheek. He pressed his lips to his palm, "Will we? I don't know if I have the strength to fight anymore. I thought we'd destroyed evil when Frodo threw the Ash Nazg to Mount Doom but now a new evil threatens my family again. Its just an endless cycle and I don't know if I can face it again." "That's not the Legolas I know talking," said Mimi holding his gaze, "The Legolas I married taught me that whatever the odds there is always hope and with hope there's strength. We can defeat this evil and we'll defeat another evil after that if we must. We don't fight for ourselves, we fight for our children and their's. When you took me up on Caradhas you taught me something, a song, that embodied all you ever gave me." "A song is just words Miranda," said Legolas turning his face away. "Not if they come for your heart. Listen to me now Legolas, learn from what you've taught others.
"May it be an Evenstar,
Shines down upon you,
May it be when darkness falls,
Your heart will be true,
You walk a lonely road,
Oh! How far you are from home.
"Mornie utulie,
Believe and you will find your way,
Mornie alantie,
A promise lives within you now.
"May it be the Shadows call,
Will fly away,
May it be you journey on,
To light the day,
When the night is overcome,
You may rise to find the sun.
"Mornie utulie,
Believe and you will find your way,
Mornie alantie,
A promise lives within you now."
Mimi kissed him softly, "A promise lives within you now Legolas, a promise you made the day you pledged your bow to the Fellowship." Legolas was silent for a moment and Mimi watched as a single bright teat rolled down his cheek and onto the sleeve of his robes. He turned back to her, "You're right Mellamin. I did make a promise. We will get through this." The door to the room opened and the couple turned to see their niece, Susan standing in the doorway with Francesca. "I thought you might want her with you," said Susan ushering the child into the room and closing the door as she left. Francesca ran to her parents arms, "Susie said Rose had gone away! Why has she gone away?" "Oh little one!" said Legolas hugging her, "She'll be home soon, Mama and I are going to get her tomorrow. You will have to be good for Grandmamma when we're gone." "I'm always good!" said Francesca, her cheeky grin so similar to her mother's, "Why can't I come too?" "Because its far away," said Mimi, "And Mama and Papa have to do a lot of work so we won't be able to look after you, that's why you have to stay here with Grandmamma." "Okay. Hug?" Mimi hugged her little daughter tightly, "How do you fancy sleeping in here tonight?" Francesca nodded. Mimi shifted closer to Legolas and they sat in silent reflection until their young daughter was asleep.
CHAPTER TWENTY.
"Get away from me you bastard!" cried Rose backing further away from Pheobus, her wedding dress tattered by the way the Moriquendi had dragged her through Moria. "Now, now princess, is that anyway for a woman of your status to behave?" said Pheobus, "I've held you here for ten days now and have I touched you? You have to realise by now that its not you that I want." "Want do you want then? My Mother? Is this all because she chose my father over you?" said Rose relaxing slightly. Pheobus laughed, "You're smarter than I gave you credit for. I want Miranda and I will have her and the most wonderful part is she's coming to me to save your virtue. Its quite touching really." "What makes you think you'll win?" hissed Rose, "You said yourself that my Father and Aragorn lead not only the Fellowship but also the army of Gondor against you. They're a powerful force. They have Narya and Vilya whereas you only have Nenya." "But they have pointless morals. They fight for eachother, watch eachother's backs. Their way of fighting is inefficient. My Moriquendi and the goblin and orc forces I have enslaved here know nothing of morals or teamwork. They are mindless killers and will destroy whom-so-ever I tell them to, without a thought for themselves or eachother." "You're sick!" hissed Rose looking around for something to throw at him. "No darling, I'm brilliant. Soon Daddy, Uncle Aragorn, precious Orli and Boromir and all the others will bring your mother to me and embrace their own deaths. But if you wish to believe they'll be all heroic and save you, you keep doing that. It's the only hope you have after all. Sleep tight Your Highness, only two more days until your sweet mother and father fall to my will. I think I might keep His Royal Majesty alive for just long enough for him to see me take his queen as my own," said Pheobus turning to leave. "You can't win Pheobus!" cried Rose at a loss for anything else to say. "My dear child," laughed Pheobus, "I've won already."
"How are you feeling?" asked Legolas coming into the tent he shared with Mimi, Orlando and Connor. The Fellowship was a day from Moria and Legolas and Aragorn had made the decision to close the days travels to rest. "Okay?" said Mimi toying with Orlando's hair as he lay with his head on her knees, "Have you fed Descaminord? How is he?" "He is fine but tired, I fear we may have pushed him too hard today." "Loci is the same," said Connor, "He was very slow for the last few miles. It felt at times as if he could sense the sadness of the group and was losing the will to continue." "It is like all living things," said Orlando, "Hope can sometimes be lost but the will of the group will pull Loci back, he will be fine by morning." "We should sleep," said Legolas as Orlando got up from Mimi and went over to Connor, "Boromir and Pippin keep watch tonight." Huddling closely for warmth the family fell into a fitful sleep.
"Rise and shine Your Highness," said Pheobus shaking Rose as she slept. She awoke and slapped him away. He grabbed her hands, "Uh-uh Rosalia. That isn't how we say good morning is it?" He kissed her fiercely. Rose tried to wriggle free but when that failed she kicked him hard in the stomach. He shrank back in pain. "Leave me alone!" she cried getting to her feet. Recovering himself Pheobus sent her back down with a slap, "You need to learn some respect!" he hissed. "Fuck off," said Rose rubbing her stinging cheek. Pheobus grabbed her round her neck and forced her down on the grubby mattress that served as her bed, "What was that?" he said. Rose gasped desperate, shallow breaths as his grip made breathing difficult, "Nothing," she managed to stutter. "Good," said Pheobus releasing her slightly, "You wouldn't want to upset me with Mummy and Daddy coming today would you? I might be forced to do something drastic." "My Lord," came the dreadful hiss of a Moriquendi as it entered the room, "The enemy approach." "Wonderful," said Pheobus pulling Rose to her feet, "We should go and welcome them."
Aragorn and Legolas sat together discussing their final tactics for the assault on Moria. "This isn't going to work Orli," said Connor as he sat sharpening the sleek elven blade he now favoured over his daggers. "We hardly have any other choices," said Orlando, "Papa and Aragorn are doing what they can." "I just think that we should try something more stealthy than...wait." "What are you thinking Connor? You've got that look about you," said Orlando watching as a plan formed in Connor's mind. "I've got an idea," said Connor springing to his feet and running over to Legolas and Aragorn. Orlando watched as he talked animatedly with them and then Legolas sprang to his feet and ran to Miranda, obviously telling her Connor's idea. Gradually Connor had collected Miranda, Legolas, Elrond and Roxie. He led them back over to Orlando, "What's going on Connor?" he asked bemused. "We're going to do a little play acting," said Connor proudly. "Play acting?" said Orlando his brain feeling twisted as he tried to figure out Connor's words. "Yep! Listen, Pheobus wants Mimi, not the rings, they're just a decoy that he thinks we believe. You follow?" said Connor. "I think I do," said Orlando, "Go on," "Well if he takes Mimi she's not as strong as say, Legolas, in battle right?" "Right." "So what if Legolas was to take Mimi's place?" Orlando ran a hand over his eyes, "Okay you've lost me...no, hang on, I get it. Connor that's brilliant! So who's masquerading as who?" "Legolas we shall change to Mimi as we change Mimi to Elrond. Then Roxie becomes Legolas and you become Roxie," said Connor. Orlando remained puzzled, "Okay, not what I had in mind but hey, so we have our cast. What happens next?" "To defeat Nenya we can use Narya and Vilya but they won't be effective unless we're close to Pheobus. Therefore Legolas, as Mimi, goes to Pheobus willingly. Pheobus won't recognize the switch until its too late because Moria is so dark. Legolas uses Narya against him and BANG! We win!" "Whoa! That's all very pretty on the surface but your forgetting Narya can't face Nenya alone and we have the Moriquendi to deal with," said Orlando. "Hold your horses huney," said Connor, "This is the best bit. To hide the real Mimi we change her to Elrond therefore allowing Elrond to slip back into the army where he can cause more damage without detection. Roxie becomes Legolas to hide the fact that he's missing but, here's the best bit, you become Roxie." "Roxie? Why?" "Roxie refuses to let Mimi face such a dark fate alone and goes with her to Pheobus. Then you, as Roxie, armed with Vilya help our pretend Mimi to take out the elven arse hole," said Connor. "I get it!" cried Orlando, "Oh my God this is going to be good but how are you going to make them look like one another. Changing clothes is one thing but if you haven't noticed, Papa's blond, Mama's dark and then the problems with Rox and I." "Easy," said Connor, "I have everything under control. Hurry up and change clothes, I'll explain as we go along."
Soon the four decoys were transformed. Legolas didn't have to change his riding clothes as they were identical to Mimi's but his hair was now dark after a very unpleasant dip in a muddy puddle. Elrond was now dressed in common soldiers armour whilst Mimi wore his clothes albeit slightly adjusted due to her height difference. Roxie, her hair roughly straightened, wore Mimi's clothes in her attempt to look like the elven king. Finally stood Orlando, his blonde hair curled and plaited to match Roxie's and dressed in her clothes. "Okay, I'm officially a drag queen!" said Orlando looking down at the hobbit style outfit, "This just looks stupid Connor, its not going to work." "It looks stupid out here but its really dark in Moria and the decoy only has to work for a split second," said Connor. "Connor's right," said Legolas, "Besides it's the only plan we have. As long as you and I can get close to Pheobus it'll be worth it." "I suppose," said Orlando, "For Rose." "For Rose," said Connor with a smile, "Now here's the plan okay. We need to keep our new Mimi and Legolas apart as Roxie is actually smaller than Legolas and that will look a bit suspect." Mimi giggled, "Just tell Pheobus I had a visit from the Ents or something," she said measuring her height against Legolas'. "We don't need to go that deep," said Connor, "Now then, the plan is that Mimi and Roxie will do the talking but Pheobus think that its Legolas and Orlando. Mimi will say something along the lines of 'I know its me you want Pheobus and I'll go to you willingly if you release my daughter.' Or something to that effect." "This can't work!" said Roxie. "Now then Mrs Took, we have no can'ts in the theatre, you know that."
"Why are they stalling?" hissed Pheobus pacing back and forth, "Do they expect me to go out to them?" "Ah poor little Pheobus, isn't your plan working?" mocked Rose, his discomfort briefly lifting her own. "Don't push me Princess," said Pheobus turning to her, his eyes burning with an icy flame, "You're not totally unexpendable." "Then why haven't you killed me already?" Pheobus turned from her and resumed his pacing, "I have no time for idle chatter." A goblin scout entered. "Well?" hissed Pheobus. "Still nothing my Lord, the enemy does not move," said the twisted creature. "What are they doing?" exclaimed Pheobus, "I'm getting bored." Rose laughed, "My parents always did like to take their time."
Legolas led Mimi away from the group. Pulling her to him, he kissed her, "I love you Miranda, remember that if I..." Mimi put a finger to his lips, "Don't even say it Legolas but for the sake of it, I love you too, so very much. Thank you my Angel." "Thank you for what?" asked Legolas. "For making me so happy everytime I'm with you. We've certainly had our ups and downs haven't we? But at least our marriage held true," said Mimi taking off her half of Narya and uniting it with the other half on Legolas' finger. "When we get out of Moria you and I will go to Lothlorien," said Legolas, "And you shall have your ring back by Nimrodel." "You hopeless romantic. But there is one condition." "What's that?" "You sing that beautiful song about the elven maid to me when we get there," said Mimi kissing him. He drew her into him, his arms tight around her. Even after their years together she had never felt him kiss her this way. So desperate was it, a final kiss it seemed. She held onto him, enjoying the moment and not allowing her mind to linger on the fate that was yet before them. All that existed was her love for him and his for her, a love that could never diminish. They parted reluctantly, their lips lingering in final, gentle brush kisses. A light giggle escaped Mimi's lips. "What?" said Legolas. "I never once thought I'd be kissing myself...Queen Miranda!" said Mimi wrapping Legolas' darkened hair around her fingers. "Well I never thought I'd be kissing Lord Elrond!" exclaimed Legolas, "This will be quite a tale to tell Francesca when she is older." "Along with many others," said Mimi. "Ready to go guys?" called Aragorn. Mimi nodded, "We're coming." Before they could move, Aragorn was at their side, "Take care in there you two. I..." he trailed off and a brief smile quirked at his lips, "I love the pair of you, just be careful." "We will," said Legolas hugging him, "But if this is to be our end my brother, at least I know I marched to my death with the truest comrades." "And for the truest cause," said Aragorn, pulling an arm away from Legolas and wrapping it around Mimi's shoulders, "The last march of the Fellowship. Come." Aragorn took the head of the group whilst Legolas, Mimi and the others took up their perfectly rehearsed positions. "If this works I want an Oscar," said Connor to Orlando. "For what? Most haired brained scheme ever. Lord of the Rings, the battle for Moria starring Legolas Greenleaf as Miranda Tolkien! Sorry huney I can't see it getting best picture," said Orlando. "I guess not," said Connor, "The Yanks wouldn't know class if it jumped up and bit them on the arse! Best stick with the BAFTAs, the Brits know what they're on about." Orlando laughed, "You're terrible!" "Its why you love me. Here we go." On Aragorn's signal the Fellowship and the entire army began their charge into the deep black chasm of Moria.
The great pit of Khazad-Dum had been widely, albeit crudely bridged allowing the army to pass over it with ease into the deep, dark of the dwarven city. "I forgot how much I hate this place," hissed Legolas to Orlando. The army halted and fires lit up ahead, silhouetting the Moriquendi and orc army. Pheobus stood at the front with Rose, "So our champions have arrived," he called across the distance, "Rose thought you'd forgotten about her." "Release her Pheobus," called Aragorn. "No! Not until Narya and Vilya are mine, they're what I want." Mimi's voice rang clearly in the darkness, "I know its me you want Pheobus and I'll go to you willingly if you release my daughter." "Indeed," said Pheobus, his arrogance increasing in his voice, "Well come over here and she may go free." Legolas pulled the hood of his cape further over his face and began to slowly walk over to Pheobus. Following the plan, Orlando counted to five and then ran after him, grabbing his arm. Roxie's voice now sounded in the hall, "Wait Mimi you can't face this alone. I'll go with you." "Roxie! No!" cried Pippin. "I want to go Pip, Mimi's my best friend. Take care of the children for me. I love you." Pheobus' laughter echoed off the walls, "How touching." Legolas and Orlando drew near. "Mimi! You don't know how long I've waited for this," said Pheobus reaching out and pulling Legolas to him. He paled as he recognized him, "You're not..." Pheobus fell back, winded, as Legolas hit him, "Now Orlando," said Legolas grabbing one of Pheobus' arms as Orlando took the other. "Narya!" "Vilya!" Nothing happened. Pheobus lashed out with Nenya's magic sending both Legolas and Orlando to the floor. "Kill them all!" cried Pheobus to his army. The Moriquendi ran into battle with the army of Gondor. Orlando threw Vilya to Legolas, "Use it Dad, I'm not strong enough. I'll get Rose." Legolas slipped Vilya next to Narya. Trying the magic he sent Pheobus down but the powers kicked back and sent Legolas down too. "You do not have the strength to control them both without Nenya," hissed Pheobus recovering himself. "My will gives me all the strength I need," said Legolas getting to his feet only to be knocked down once more. Orlando fled passed with Rose in his arms, "Papa I've got her! Let's go!" he cried fleeing back to the Fellowship. Legolas didn't follow.
Appearing from nowhere a great dwarven army fell upon the Moriquendi from behind, outnumbering them. "Finally! Reinforcements," said Connor, smiling grimly as he brought down another orc. In the midst of the battle, Mimi looked up to see Legolas and Pheobus fighting in a haze of fire and smoke. Legolas went down but this time he did not recover himself. Without any rational thought Mimi fought her way through the battle to the two elves.
Pheobus took Narya and Vilya from Legolas' hand as he writhed in pain on the floor. He united the three rings, "I never asked for much," he said, "But you always had to take what I wanted. You always got what I desired, when it was all rightly mine." "Why?" groaned Legolas, "Miranda made her choice. Why all this over a simple choice that you had no power over?" "She did not choose you because she loved who you were, she loved what you were. Prince of Mirkwood, the title that should have been mine." "What?" said Legolas his pain lessened by his need for answers. "They kept it a secret from you too. But I found out. My father didn't die, the man I thought he was never even lived. My father sat by and made you his heir, claimed you his first born and left my mother and I to nothing." Legolas choked back a cry, "You're lying!" "The truth is hard to take isn't it brother!" hissed Pheobus, "I am your elder, the rightful heir to our fathers throne even though I am not of the precious Elemmire. Thranduil was my father and yet even that I could not have!" Legolas' cry could have pierced the vastest depths of hell with its pain. "Cry not little brother," said Pheobus coldly, "You are welcome to his memory and you will soon join him." The elf raised his hand, preparing to strike a fatal blow with the three united rings. Pheobus cried out in pain as a perfectly shot arrow pierced his hand. He pulled his hand to his chest as the rings grew bright. Legolas managed to collect himself and ran to Mimi, knowing that, if the spell was incomplete, the rings would turn against eachother and destroy the bearer. Pheobus tried in vain to rip the arrow from his hand as Legolas pushed Mimi back towards the fighting armies, "Get clear Miranda," he cried, "I dread to think what those rings will do." He threw himself and her to the floor, covering her body with his own as a great burst of light enveloped Pheobus. With an almighty explosion of fire, wind and water, the light took over the chasm as the rings destroyed eachother. The warring armies stopped at the sound and sight of it but their attention was soon turned as the walls began to shake. Seeing their master dead and fearing the tremors, the Moriquendi balked and fled. "The cave is collapsing!" cried Aragorn, "Make for the surface!" The allied armies fled for Khazad-Dum as the ceiling fell in around them.
Legolas got Mimi to her feet and they followed behind. He was slow, too badly injured from the volatile explosions of Narya and Vilya. Mimi would not leave him, slowing her pace to help him along, "Hurry Legolas please! Fight the pain darling, it is not far to the surface." "I can't Miranda, go on, I'll be alright," said Legolas pushing her away from him. "No!" said Mimi stubbornly. She took his arm and placed it over her shoulder, supporting him as best she could, "We'll get there." Legolas suddenly cried out in pain and fell from her arms, to his knees. Mimi looked up and saw an orc with its bow trained on them. Loading her own, she shot it between the eyes and it fell down dead. She turned to her husband and saw the arrow embedded in his back. She knelt beside him and tried to get him to his feet, "Come on Legolas. Aragorn brought a surgeon with him, we'll get you seen too quickly but you have to move!" Legolas lay back against her, his body too weak to stay upright, "I can't Miranda...its...Ai!" His breathing was ragged as he forced himself to fight the pain, "Leave me." "I can't!" cried Mimi, "I won't let you die!" "Its too late. Tell the children I love them." Mimi buried her face I his hair, "Oh Legolas don't say that! Don't leave me!" His body tensed, "Hush my love. This...this is a warriors death...the death I've desired since...since...since I first took up...my bow." He took her hand, "Never forget that I...love you." Mimi raised her head and stared deep into his eyes. Seeing the bravery in him she lent down and kissed him, "I love you Angel," she whispered pulling back. "Be...strong Miranda. I'll never leave you...Will you do me one last thing? Kiss me...I want your lips...to...be the last thing...I touch," choked Legolas his grip tightening on her hand as he tried to hide his pain. Mimi bit back her tears and kissed him, closing her eyes and trying to will her mind away from the situation. Legolas kissed her back, the familiarity of his lips a welcome comfort to her. Eternity seemed to pass but as the movements of his mouth ceased and the grip of his hand weakened, it all seemed too quick. Mimi pulled back, crying bitter tears but the quiet serenity on Legolas' face did not look like death's black mask, merely peaceful sleep. A pained smile quirked at Mimi's lips, "Sleep, sleep my Angel," she whispered.
The forces of Gondor had regrouped on the mountainside. The injured were being tended to and Rose reunited with Boromir. "Oh my Rose I thought I'd lost you!" cried Boromir hugging her tightly, "Are you alright?" "I'm fine! I was scared you weren't coming for me," said Rose, "Thoughts of you kept me alive my love." Boromir kissed her, wrapping his cape around her tattered wedding dress. Running feet caught their attention. "Have you seen Mama and Papa?" said Orlando, still dressed in Roxie's clothes. "No they were...Oh God where are they?" cried Rose, "Mama! Papa!" "Rose! Orlando! Over here!" came Aragorn's call. The twins looked over in his direction and paled as they saw their mother carrying Legolas from the mines to the camp. Aragorn ran to her and took the burden from her, shutting his eyes against his tears as he cradled his friend's body to him. One of the soldiers lay his cape on the floor and Aragorn lay Legolas down on it. Mimi knelt beside the body, raising a pale hand to her lips and kissing the back of it. Orlando and Rose gripped tightly to one another as they moved slowly to the scene. "Mama?" Mimi looked up, her features grey and her cheeks streaked by dust and tears. She shook her head and said nothing. Laying herself down so that her head rested on her husband's chest, she wept silently. The twins could resist their tears no longer. "Papa!" cried Rose, "Papa!" Boromir's arms brought little comfort. Shrugging him off, she hugged Orlando tightly. The grief that consumed the group was too great for words. The world fell still and silent, the death of a being such as Legolas mourned by more than just his friends. The silence was broken here and there by a choked sob. Mimi raised her head to see everyone staring at the ground. The world was in slow motion. She saw Aragorn hugging Arwen and Boromir to him, crying bitterly over his lost brother. Elrond, Thomas, Roxie and Pippin, their faces darkened by grief. Her children, holding to eachother as they had for so many years when in need of comfort. His children. Her mind fell on Francesca, the little child back in their home with her grandmother, blissfully unaware of the scene before her mother's eyes. To lose a father so young. Mimi's thoughts became whispers, "To lose a mother so young." She leant down and softly kissed Legolas' lips, almost surprised when no movement came from them, "Amin khiluva lle a'gurthaar'thar Mela en'coiamin...to death and beyond, so was our vow." She got to her feet, swallowing the wish to cry. She kissed each of her friends in turn, uttering no words. They did not speak. Eyes scanned her face, not knowing how she could be feeling ad not understanding her behaviour. Finally she reached her children, "He was proud of you both, he has left his kingdom in good hands. Mirkwood is your's now my little one's," she said softly. "Oh Mama..." said Orlando but Mimi put a finger to his lips to silence him. "Hush! I love you both very much and tell your sister that I love her too." "What?" said Rose her eyes lighting with a fire so similar to her mother's in days gone by. "I cannot live on without him..." "Mama no!" "You are strong Rosalia, you both are. Just because you cannot see me doesn't mean I am not with you. Your father and I made a promise before Illuvatar himself, until the day we die...that day has come," said Mimi kissing them both, "Amin mella lle. Aa'menealle nauva calen ar'malta."
The rest of the group stood stunned at her words. "Mimi?" said Roxie softly but Elrond lay a hand on her shoulder, holding her back. Her only answer was a flash of green as Mimi shot her a desperate glance, one final, unspoken farewell to her beloved sister. Once more she knelt beside Legolas and took his hand. Raising her face to the heavens she spoke, "Into your arms I pledge us both. Receive us to your great kingdom my lord, let us live as promised by your tales, forever in love." Taking her dagger she kissed Legolas one final time before stabbing it into her chest. A rush of air escaped her lips but nothing more, she would not mar her passing with a scream. As her body succumbed to her actions she lost sight of her friends and lay down against her husband's chest. Her final words were soft, although waking him from a dream, "Amin mella lle my Angel."
Epilogue.
"The woods look so fine at this time of year don't you think?" said Dominic as he stared up into the trees of Lothlorien. A small, pale hand slipped into his and he turned to see the deep green eyes and long dark hair of his love. "They're wonderful," said Francesca softly, her accent that of a Mirkwood elf still, despite her time in Rivendell, "What a wonderful surprise!" "It is your twenty-first my darling, I could hardly not surprise you," laughed Dominic as they wandered deeper into the wood, the sound of a waterfall splashing nearby. "But you have given me so many gifts already. To bring me here too...but I do want to see them." Dominic held aside a branch for her and they walked into a glade and over to the glistening waterfall. Two simple head stones stood proudly by the water's edge. Francesca walked over and knelt down, brushing the fallen leaves from the stones to reveal fine elven script. "Here lie Legolas and Miranda, high prince and princess of Mirkwood. Given to Eru yet ever in our hearts. Quel kaima," she read aloud as a single tear fell down her cheek, "I wish I'd known them more." Dominic knelt beside her, "So do I. But they are together now and can never be parted again...as I hope we shall never be. Francesca I..." "Yes?" said the young princess taking his hand and getting to her feet. "I...would you...I mean...would you take a vow with me here. A vow of our love as your parents once did," said Dominic. A dazzling smile brightened Francesca's face, "By our ancestors and by the witness of the blessed two I take you as my own. My love, my companion, my friend. Let us only be parted by death and then reunited in the kingdom of Illuvatar. My vow of love needs no witness and yet here it is seen. You are my own." Dominic looked down at their entwined fingers, "If our lord is willing then I accept your vow and give you my own. Though I have no great gift of an immortal life I can give you my love, an immortal love." The wind sighed in the trees as they kissed and they did not see the stirring closer to the water's edge. Two figures stood, smiling. One light of eye and hair and the other a dazzling beauty only rivaled by the child she watched. The woman turned to her husband and he slipped a simple band of silver onto her finger before kissing her. As the wind blew the leaves into the air, the figures faded and vanished but a song hung in the air. Dominic and Francesca listened as the notes danced on the breeze, the music bringing back distant memories but filled with future promise. Francesca looked over to the water and then down at the two headstones. "Sleep in peace. Love in peace." As they left the glade the song took full hold and echoed softly through the branches,
"May it be an Evenstar,
Shines down upon you,
May it be when darkness falls,
Your heart will be true..."
THE END.
