The Birth of Dawn and Twilight
Written By: Shelly LeBlanc
~Author's Note: Okay, to clear some things up, because some people became confused. Elladan and Elrohir have been born already, and you will see them in this chapter. Celebrian is having another pair of twins, and I will also explain the oddness in this chapter also. Just read and have fun.~
**Disclaimer – I do not own any of the characters in this story except for Isawien, the Queen of Mirkwood, and some other random people. All characters are copyrighted by J.R.R. Tolkien, and who ever else owns the Lord of the Rings trilogy.**
Chapter Four – Journey to Lorien
The room became silent, for all of its occupants were trying to comprehend what was just spoken. Even Elrond, who spoke the words, was having a hard time understanding it. It was rare enough for Elves to have twins, for there were only a few elves that ever gave birth to pairs of Elflings, but to have two set of twins from both the same parent was unheard of. No one had ever heard of it happening before. And now, these three wise Elves bore witness to the shocking miracle and were stunned to silence.
Surprisingly enough, it was Thranduil that broke the silence, with a laugh.
"Ah, Elrond. It looks like another congratulations is in order, though I do not recall giving you the first one." With that, the King of Mirkwood moved closer to where the Lord and Lady of Rivendell were placed and gave a great bow. "Lord Elrond and Lady Celebrian, congratulations on the gift of life that has been bestowed upon you and many wishes for a healthy child. And congratulations on the news you have just bestowed upon me. Let it be known that you, my great leaders of Imladris, are the Parents of Miracles."
Celebrian smiled at the King, hearing his heartfelt words and knew he did not jest. A good king is he, she thought, for she saw the sorrow in his heart but put it behind the joy of the news he had experienced.
"I thank you, good King of Mirkwood. But now is not the time to celebrate. We have much business to do. We will leave tomorrow morning, I want us to reach Lorien and your wife as soon as possible," Celebrian spoke to him, lifting herself up from the chair. The two male Elves quickly helped her up, slightly surprised at her words, but pleased nonetheless.
"Very well," Elrond said, taking the arm of his wife and started to lead her out of the study. "I will inform our people of our departure."
Kind Thranduil moved a head of them and opened the door for the Lord and Lady of Rivendell, who bowed their head in thanks. They then stepped out into the now midmorning sun. Celebrian turned to her husband.
"What shall we do with the boys? I do not think it is wise to bring them with us, they are still young, they will not understand what is going on."
Elrond pondered the thought for a short moment before replying. "I had hoped to have them be present for the birthing, even if it was just a room away. But you are right; they are still much too young to understand. They would rather stay here and scout than standing outside a door waiting for their sibling . . . siblings to be born." He was still getting used to the fact of having another pair of twins. "Besides, it will give more attention to Isawien," Elrond said, nodding to Thranduil, informing the Mirkwood Elf he did not already forget the true purpose of their going to Lorien.
"Then it is settled," Celebrian stated, removing her arm from her husband's and started towards the other direction. "I shall tell the news to our sons, before they start their day."
"They should be in breakfast now, you should get something to eat while you are there," Elrond said after his wife. She gave a smile and a wave and was off. Elrond turned back to Thranduil, who was giving him a masked look.
"You are indeed very blessed, my friend," the King said, "I just hope that some of it will rub off on our family."
Elrond smiled and placed a hand on his shoulder. "I do, too." Thranduil copied the healer's action for a brief moment, and then they both lowered their hands. "Come, we have many things to plan before the morrow."
* * *
Celebrian found the twins exactly where Elrond had said they would be, but having breakfast was the last thing one would think when catching a glimpse of what she had walked in on. The identical boys were practically covered head to toe with the meal, indicating a fight had occurred. But by the smiled on both of their faces, their mother knew was long since over and that they were now laughing at their silliness.
When Celebrian's magical laugh escaped her lips, two pairs of gray eyes shot towards her, widening with happiness at who they found.
"Mother!" they cried out and stood up. They were very near the age of adulthood, so they did not run to greet her as they had done so many times in the past. Instead, they gave bows to their mother and Lady. It was almost comical, for they were perfectly in sync with each other.
"Well, it looks like you two had an enjoyable breakfast," Celebrian smiled at them and moved closer, sitting down at a clean seat at the table. "What was the fight about?"
"There was no fight-" Elladan started.
"We were just wanted to see-" Elrohir continued.
"Who could make the best mess." Elladan finished, with Elrohir nodding. They then proceeded to give her cheeky grin. Their mother just smiled, for she was used to their finishing each other's sentences. From the first moment they could talk, they did this. It gave a great many people entertainment, along with the pranks and jokes they learned over the years.
"I see. Who won?" she asked, trying to keep a straight face as she looked over their clothing. Elrohir rolled his eyes, which was followed by Elladan's own eyes.
"Mo-om. We're twins," he stated, sounding like it was obvious.
"We're both the same," his brother cut in, with the same tone as the younger twin's.
"We both won!" they exclaimed together. The Lady of Rivendell could not hold back her smile and laughter any more.
"Yes, I see that as well." The exasperated look on their faces disappeared, and was replaced with a blush. She just shook her head and motioned them towards her. "My sons, I have news to bare. Your father and I will be leaving to go Lorien, to see your grandmother and another Lady, Queen Isawien of the Mirkwood Realm. She is very ill, and she needs both Father and I to take care of her."
The twin's mood turned serious. "Will you be back in time to have the baby?" Elladan asked.
Celebrian paused slightly before shaking her head, "Nay, young ones. Your grandmother has requested that perhaps I should have the baby there. It may help the Queen with her sorrow."
The twins nodded, understanding. They knew the stories about the child that was supposed to be their senior.
"Are we going with you?" Elrohir questioned next, though by the look on their faces that they already knew the answer.
"Nay. Your father and I have decided that you should stay here. Our visit to the Golden Woods is not a pleasurable one. You would be bored to tears, for your grandfather would not allow you to scout with his men. I will feel safer and happier knowing you are doing something you like to do than wait for me in my time of birthing."
There was a short silence before Elladan moved forward, as well as Elrohir, and gave their mother a hug.
"We would rather be by your side . . ."
"In your time of pain . . ."
"Than hunting for wild game."
"But we will respect your decision . . ."
"And we will stay here . . ."
"And out of your hair . . ."
"When our new brother or sister arrives in this world."
Celebrian was almost moved to tears. Indeed, her sons were growing up so fast, and despite their playful nature, were very smart young Elves. She kissed each of their dirty cheeks without hesitation and petted their food- covered hair.
"I love you sons, so much," she said to them. "Now go wash up, I will get somebody to clean up this . . . er, challenge, and then you may go out for a while. But I'm sure your father want's you ready for dinner. The Mirkwood King is here and we will most likely have a formal dinner."
The twins groaned playfully and then ran out the room; eager to be on their way to the forest they loved dearly. Celebrian smiled as she watched them leave the room, but it dimmed a little as she recalled their talk a few moments ago. Why did she not tell them about the other child that was in her womb? She was about to tell them, when they inquired about her returning for the birth of the child, but she had strange feeling inside of her, telling her to keep what the three Elves had learned to themselves. It seemed odd, would she not have wanted to gush to her sons the news?
But she shook the thought away, standing with the aid of the table. She had many things to do before the next morning, and she could not spend the time thinking of such things.
"I will tell them at supper," she told herself, taking her exit from the messy dinning room.
* * *
Celebrian stared out of the carriage's window, at the land that passed by it. Her husband dosed in the seat next to her, and Thranduil was quietly reading one of the books he had borrowed from Elrond for the journey.
They were already almost at the Golden Wood's edge, ready to enter her mother's domain. After a few weeks of riding in the coach, they were almost finally there. And it was only then that she remembered her promise to herself and that she had broken it.
When the boys came in for dinner that night, they were too interested in the stories from King Thranduil to barely even eat, much less any other news that might have came along. But she did not interrupt the stories, and she noticed that her husband and their guest had failed to bring up the subject also. She had also meant to ask her husband later that night why didn't they tell their children of the news, but found herself too exhausted to even speak.
And by the next morning when it was time to leave, she had forgotten that nobody but the two male Elves that accompanied her in the carriage and herself even knew that another set of twins were to be born.
She turned to her side, to find her husband out of his light sleep and looking directly at her. He gave her a concerned smile and raised his hand to her cheek.
"What worries you, my Lady?" His Lady smiled, bringing her own hand to join his.
"How did you know that I had worries?" She inquired, watching him tilt his head to one side as if to think.
"I do not know, I guess it is because we have spent so many years together, I know what you are feeling by now."
"Ah," Celebrian said, sounding like the answer he gave was obvious. "Your feelings are indeed true then. I do have worries . . . but only one that stands out at this moment."
Elrond removed his hand from her cheek, but not her hand. "What is it?"
"Elrond, do you realize we never told the boys about the twins?" she asked, astonished at the fact that she neglected to inform her children of the new condition. Elrond looked started for a moment then composed himself.
"Yes, I do realize that now, but there is nothing we can do about that now." Elrond gave her a smile, and continued, "They will just be surprised when we come back with two infants instead of one."
Thranduil looked up at the loving couple and gave them a small smile. He opened his mouth to speak, when he felt the carriage slow to a halt. He quickly turned to the door of the carriage, planning on checking to see what was their delay, when he found it already opened, and the blond head of a soldier poked his head in. Celebrian smiled when she saw whom it was.
"Haldir!" She cried and moved to give him a hug, and was met halfway.
"Hello, dear sister. Are you well?" Haldir said to her, backing away from the hug to gaze at her, "My, haven't you grown!"
Celebrian laughed, while beside her Elrond scowled. The Lorien Elf straightened himself and looked apologetic.
"I am sorry, my Lord. It is good to see you." Haldir nodded at Lord Elrond, then at Thranduil, "You too, my King. I hope your journey was well."
Thranduil, who was in much brighter mood than when he had left a few weeks ago, smiled at the warrior. "It was pleasant, if a bit tiresome. Of course, we were all anxious to return." The pleasant mood lifted when worry came to his eyes, "How fair's my wife?"
Haldir became sober. "No change, my King, for better or for worse. At least we can be joyful about that. She awaits your arrival."
The Mirkwood Elf nodded, turning to look outside the carriage. Celebrian put her hand on her brother's shoulder. He turned her way, and the smile returned to his face. "Our mother is also waiting for your arrival." He turned his attention back to the rest of the passengers. "Welcome to Lorien, my friends."
Haldir then back himself out of the carriage and motioned the driver to continue on. Celebrian felt her ride move again and smiled out at her brother. He gave a playful salute and turned away, heading back towards his post. She sat back again, with a smile on her face.
She was coming home.
----------------------------
Review Thanks! (I kind of like the 5 to 6 reviewers per story...)
I-like-chickens: Yes they have, this is a new set of twins. And thank you!
Aelan Greenleaf: my apologizes! This chapter doesn't really have a cliff hanger, I guess. But I hope you enjoy it!
Gionareth: Yes! And thank you again!
Kitsune: erm . . . I'm sorry?
Gissela: Hope this wasn't a long wait, school is a witch! Besides, I still don't have the first chapter of the next story finished, I want to keep the updates constant! Err...thanks for reading, and I hope you continue to!
Written By: Shelly LeBlanc
~Author's Note: Okay, to clear some things up, because some people became confused. Elladan and Elrohir have been born already, and you will see them in this chapter. Celebrian is having another pair of twins, and I will also explain the oddness in this chapter also. Just read and have fun.~
**Disclaimer – I do not own any of the characters in this story except for Isawien, the Queen of Mirkwood, and some other random people. All characters are copyrighted by J.R.R. Tolkien, and who ever else owns the Lord of the Rings trilogy.**
Chapter Four – Journey to Lorien
The room became silent, for all of its occupants were trying to comprehend what was just spoken. Even Elrond, who spoke the words, was having a hard time understanding it. It was rare enough for Elves to have twins, for there were only a few elves that ever gave birth to pairs of Elflings, but to have two set of twins from both the same parent was unheard of. No one had ever heard of it happening before. And now, these three wise Elves bore witness to the shocking miracle and were stunned to silence.
Surprisingly enough, it was Thranduil that broke the silence, with a laugh.
"Ah, Elrond. It looks like another congratulations is in order, though I do not recall giving you the first one." With that, the King of Mirkwood moved closer to where the Lord and Lady of Rivendell were placed and gave a great bow. "Lord Elrond and Lady Celebrian, congratulations on the gift of life that has been bestowed upon you and many wishes for a healthy child. And congratulations on the news you have just bestowed upon me. Let it be known that you, my great leaders of Imladris, are the Parents of Miracles."
Celebrian smiled at the King, hearing his heartfelt words and knew he did not jest. A good king is he, she thought, for she saw the sorrow in his heart but put it behind the joy of the news he had experienced.
"I thank you, good King of Mirkwood. But now is not the time to celebrate. We have much business to do. We will leave tomorrow morning, I want us to reach Lorien and your wife as soon as possible," Celebrian spoke to him, lifting herself up from the chair. The two male Elves quickly helped her up, slightly surprised at her words, but pleased nonetheless.
"Very well," Elrond said, taking the arm of his wife and started to lead her out of the study. "I will inform our people of our departure."
Kind Thranduil moved a head of them and opened the door for the Lord and Lady of Rivendell, who bowed their head in thanks. They then stepped out into the now midmorning sun. Celebrian turned to her husband.
"What shall we do with the boys? I do not think it is wise to bring them with us, they are still young, they will not understand what is going on."
Elrond pondered the thought for a short moment before replying. "I had hoped to have them be present for the birthing, even if it was just a room away. But you are right; they are still much too young to understand. They would rather stay here and scout than standing outside a door waiting for their sibling . . . siblings to be born." He was still getting used to the fact of having another pair of twins. "Besides, it will give more attention to Isawien," Elrond said, nodding to Thranduil, informing the Mirkwood Elf he did not already forget the true purpose of their going to Lorien.
"Then it is settled," Celebrian stated, removing her arm from her husband's and started towards the other direction. "I shall tell the news to our sons, before they start their day."
"They should be in breakfast now, you should get something to eat while you are there," Elrond said after his wife. She gave a smile and a wave and was off. Elrond turned back to Thranduil, who was giving him a masked look.
"You are indeed very blessed, my friend," the King said, "I just hope that some of it will rub off on our family."
Elrond smiled and placed a hand on his shoulder. "I do, too." Thranduil copied the healer's action for a brief moment, and then they both lowered their hands. "Come, we have many things to plan before the morrow."
* * *
Celebrian found the twins exactly where Elrond had said they would be, but having breakfast was the last thing one would think when catching a glimpse of what she had walked in on. The identical boys were practically covered head to toe with the meal, indicating a fight had occurred. But by the smiled on both of their faces, their mother knew was long since over and that they were now laughing at their silliness.
When Celebrian's magical laugh escaped her lips, two pairs of gray eyes shot towards her, widening with happiness at who they found.
"Mother!" they cried out and stood up. They were very near the age of adulthood, so they did not run to greet her as they had done so many times in the past. Instead, they gave bows to their mother and Lady. It was almost comical, for they were perfectly in sync with each other.
"Well, it looks like you two had an enjoyable breakfast," Celebrian smiled at them and moved closer, sitting down at a clean seat at the table. "What was the fight about?"
"There was no fight-" Elladan started.
"We were just wanted to see-" Elrohir continued.
"Who could make the best mess." Elladan finished, with Elrohir nodding. They then proceeded to give her cheeky grin. Their mother just smiled, for she was used to their finishing each other's sentences. From the first moment they could talk, they did this. It gave a great many people entertainment, along with the pranks and jokes they learned over the years.
"I see. Who won?" she asked, trying to keep a straight face as she looked over their clothing. Elrohir rolled his eyes, which was followed by Elladan's own eyes.
"Mo-om. We're twins," he stated, sounding like it was obvious.
"We're both the same," his brother cut in, with the same tone as the younger twin's.
"We both won!" they exclaimed together. The Lady of Rivendell could not hold back her smile and laughter any more.
"Yes, I see that as well." The exasperated look on their faces disappeared, and was replaced with a blush. She just shook her head and motioned them towards her. "My sons, I have news to bare. Your father and I will be leaving to go Lorien, to see your grandmother and another Lady, Queen Isawien of the Mirkwood Realm. She is very ill, and she needs both Father and I to take care of her."
The twin's mood turned serious. "Will you be back in time to have the baby?" Elladan asked.
Celebrian paused slightly before shaking her head, "Nay, young ones. Your grandmother has requested that perhaps I should have the baby there. It may help the Queen with her sorrow."
The twins nodded, understanding. They knew the stories about the child that was supposed to be their senior.
"Are we going with you?" Elrohir questioned next, though by the look on their faces that they already knew the answer.
"Nay. Your father and I have decided that you should stay here. Our visit to the Golden Woods is not a pleasurable one. You would be bored to tears, for your grandfather would not allow you to scout with his men. I will feel safer and happier knowing you are doing something you like to do than wait for me in my time of birthing."
There was a short silence before Elladan moved forward, as well as Elrohir, and gave their mother a hug.
"We would rather be by your side . . ."
"In your time of pain . . ."
"Than hunting for wild game."
"But we will respect your decision . . ."
"And we will stay here . . ."
"And out of your hair . . ."
"When our new brother or sister arrives in this world."
Celebrian was almost moved to tears. Indeed, her sons were growing up so fast, and despite their playful nature, were very smart young Elves. She kissed each of their dirty cheeks without hesitation and petted their food- covered hair.
"I love you sons, so much," she said to them. "Now go wash up, I will get somebody to clean up this . . . er, challenge, and then you may go out for a while. But I'm sure your father want's you ready for dinner. The Mirkwood King is here and we will most likely have a formal dinner."
The twins groaned playfully and then ran out the room; eager to be on their way to the forest they loved dearly. Celebrian smiled as she watched them leave the room, but it dimmed a little as she recalled their talk a few moments ago. Why did she not tell them about the other child that was in her womb? She was about to tell them, when they inquired about her returning for the birth of the child, but she had strange feeling inside of her, telling her to keep what the three Elves had learned to themselves. It seemed odd, would she not have wanted to gush to her sons the news?
But she shook the thought away, standing with the aid of the table. She had many things to do before the next morning, and she could not spend the time thinking of such things.
"I will tell them at supper," she told herself, taking her exit from the messy dinning room.
* * *
Celebrian stared out of the carriage's window, at the land that passed by it. Her husband dosed in the seat next to her, and Thranduil was quietly reading one of the books he had borrowed from Elrond for the journey.
They were already almost at the Golden Wood's edge, ready to enter her mother's domain. After a few weeks of riding in the coach, they were almost finally there. And it was only then that she remembered her promise to herself and that she had broken it.
When the boys came in for dinner that night, they were too interested in the stories from King Thranduil to barely even eat, much less any other news that might have came along. But she did not interrupt the stories, and she noticed that her husband and their guest had failed to bring up the subject also. She had also meant to ask her husband later that night why didn't they tell their children of the news, but found herself too exhausted to even speak.
And by the next morning when it was time to leave, she had forgotten that nobody but the two male Elves that accompanied her in the carriage and herself even knew that another set of twins were to be born.
She turned to her side, to find her husband out of his light sleep and looking directly at her. He gave her a concerned smile and raised his hand to her cheek.
"What worries you, my Lady?" His Lady smiled, bringing her own hand to join his.
"How did you know that I had worries?" She inquired, watching him tilt his head to one side as if to think.
"I do not know, I guess it is because we have spent so many years together, I know what you are feeling by now."
"Ah," Celebrian said, sounding like the answer he gave was obvious. "Your feelings are indeed true then. I do have worries . . . but only one that stands out at this moment."
Elrond removed his hand from her cheek, but not her hand. "What is it?"
"Elrond, do you realize we never told the boys about the twins?" she asked, astonished at the fact that she neglected to inform her children of the new condition. Elrond looked started for a moment then composed himself.
"Yes, I do realize that now, but there is nothing we can do about that now." Elrond gave her a smile, and continued, "They will just be surprised when we come back with two infants instead of one."
Thranduil looked up at the loving couple and gave them a small smile. He opened his mouth to speak, when he felt the carriage slow to a halt. He quickly turned to the door of the carriage, planning on checking to see what was their delay, when he found it already opened, and the blond head of a soldier poked his head in. Celebrian smiled when she saw whom it was.
"Haldir!" She cried and moved to give him a hug, and was met halfway.
"Hello, dear sister. Are you well?" Haldir said to her, backing away from the hug to gaze at her, "My, haven't you grown!"
Celebrian laughed, while beside her Elrond scowled. The Lorien Elf straightened himself and looked apologetic.
"I am sorry, my Lord. It is good to see you." Haldir nodded at Lord Elrond, then at Thranduil, "You too, my King. I hope your journey was well."
Thranduil, who was in much brighter mood than when he had left a few weeks ago, smiled at the warrior. "It was pleasant, if a bit tiresome. Of course, we were all anxious to return." The pleasant mood lifted when worry came to his eyes, "How fair's my wife?"
Haldir became sober. "No change, my King, for better or for worse. At least we can be joyful about that. She awaits your arrival."
The Mirkwood Elf nodded, turning to look outside the carriage. Celebrian put her hand on her brother's shoulder. He turned her way, and the smile returned to his face. "Our mother is also waiting for your arrival." He turned his attention back to the rest of the passengers. "Welcome to Lorien, my friends."
Haldir then back himself out of the carriage and motioned the driver to continue on. Celebrian felt her ride move again and smiled out at her brother. He gave a playful salute and turned away, heading back towards his post. She sat back again, with a smile on her face.
She was coming home.
----------------------------
Review Thanks! (I kind of like the 5 to 6 reviewers per story...)
I-like-chickens: Yes they have, this is a new set of twins. And thank you!
Aelan Greenleaf: my apologizes! This chapter doesn't really have a cliff hanger, I guess. But I hope you enjoy it!
Gionareth: Yes! And thank you again!
Kitsune: erm . . . I'm sorry?
Gissela: Hope this wasn't a long wait, school is a witch! Besides, I still don't have the first chapter of the next story finished, I want to keep the updates constant! Err...thanks for reading, and I hope you continue to!