God, could I be any lamer in getting these chapters out? I'm so sorry guys,
I can't say it enough, I hope this long chapter makes up for it.
-Squijim
Chapter 11: The Growing Darkness
The vastness of the land between Lothlorien and Rivendell had never been fully realized by Aireromen as she and Morwing traveled from Elrond's elven refuge, back to her home. For some reason the trip to Rivendell had seemed shorter, but then that was probably due to the fact that she had ridden hard and fast all the way there, all for a letter that her father wanted to get to Elrond immediately.
What ever the contents of the letter were, it had to be the gravest of emergencies to get it there so quickly. Her father had looked so troubled and worried when he had handed her the letter, she wondered what news was passing between the elven lords.
More than anything else, Aireromen was shocked that her father had chosen her, above all the others to get the letter to Rivendell.
'Aire, I need you to get this letter to Imladris immediately, it cannot wait.' Celeborn handed a letter written on parchment to her, his grey eyes burning into hers.
'Me? Why not send a page?' she questioned, furrowing her eyebrows.
'Because you can get it there faster, Morwing has more speed and endurance than any elven horse I've known. He can withstand the strains it will take to get it there.' Celeborn nodded.
Aireromen smiled wryly. 'So you've finally warmed up to him then?'
Her father's face was hard as stone. 'There is no time for your jokes Aire, run to the kitchen and take as much Lembas as you and Morwing will need, then begon before the sun is set.'
'Yes, father.' Aireromen straightened her face and jogged off.
Morwing let out a loud snort, bringing Aireromen back to the present. She leaned down, patting the horse on his neck. 'I know Morwing, I'm anxious to get home as well, but we still have a good 3 days ride ahead of us before we even set foot on the boarders of Lorien.
Aireromen sighed, she might as well enjoy the quiet time while she could, for once she got back home she was going to be helping an ecstatic Siril plan for her wedding to Haldir in a week. She and Haldir were engaged soon after Legolas and Aireromen were, but they were rushing things, not wishing to wait. Not as if Aireromen could plan for her own wedding anyway, she and Legolas were keeping the news a secret, waiting for the right time to announce it to everyone. She kept the ring that Legolas had given her in a small box by her bed; she did not wear it because then someone would surely notice.
Morwing came to a sudden stop, his head turned to the South, his ears pricked forward, the very tips of them almost touching. His nostrils flared and his red eyes glittered.
Aireromen sat stiff, listening. A shadow fell over her thoughts. There was something out there, though even with her keen elven eyes she saw nothing. A feeling came rushing over her that made her wish she were hidden from sight. Her hand slid down to her sword, her fingers touching the hilt lightly.
Aireromen's eyes shifted around the landscape about her, searching for any sign of movement.
Over the grassy planes came a blood-chilling cry. Morwing let out a shrill, frightened neigh, rearing up into the air, his hooves pawing and slashing at the wind. He came down hard, nearly causing Aireromen to slid right off his back, she stroked his neck and spoke softly into his ear. 'It's okay Morwing.. It's okay.'
There came another chilling cry, this time answered by another not to far away, it sent a cold shiver down Aireromen's spine. She had recognized the cry. Ringwraiths.
Morwing half reared again, lurching forward, moving awkwardly, wanting to run but still trying to listen to the commands of his rider.
Over a high hill above them came five Ringwraiths, all seemed to be staring down at Aireromen and Morwing. Then, in a sudden, ghostly movement, the black riders took off down the hill, their steeds tearing up the ground as the approached.
Aireromen kicked hard, sending Morwing speeding away from the black forms coming ever closer to them, she urged the black stallion on, faster and faster; the cries from the Ringwraiths piercing her ears from behind. She looked back, the five Ringwraiths had drawn their swords, brandishing them towards her.
'Faster Morwing! FASTER!' she bent down, calling into his ear.
Morwing breathed in deeply and strained his head down and forwards, urging his legs to go farther, straining and pulling the muscles, demanding them to go faster, ignoring the tight pain that traveled through his legs like a bullet. His long main and tail whipped back behind him, flapping like a great black silky banner in the wind from his own speed.
Aireromen glanced back again; they were beginning to draw further away from the black riders, but not enough for comfort.
The leader let out an odd, shrill call, Morwing's ears swept back, listening, his strides faltered, he began to slow down. The strange calls continued, and with each one, Morwing's pace was slowed.
Aireromen urged him forward, but to no avail, the cries continued, she realized with horror that they were calling to Morwing! Morwing's father had been a Nazgul steed, it was in his blood, and the black riders were using it against him.
Aireromen called to her horse, 'Fight it Morwing! You have to fight it! You're not one of them. Don't give in! MORWING!'
Her pleas did nothing, his stride slowed even more, the black riders were beginning to surround her, each taking a side, they reached out with their frightening hands, trying to grab at her.
Aireromen closed her eyes and whispered low and soft into Morwing's ear, her voice deepened and her face grew hard as stone. ' Ed' Eru, rima Morwing! Sii'!' (By God, run Morwing! Now!)
Morwing's head shot straight up, he let out a snort and surged his black body forward, smashing his strong chest hard against the steed of the Ringwraith infront of him. The cursed horse squealed in pain and stumbled aside, allowing room for Morwing to gallop through, charging on, quickly gaining speed and distance from the Nazgul.
A smiled formed slightly on Aireromen's face, she urged her horse on. (Oh thank Eru; we're going to make it! Morwing is fighting them, he's speeding up, he's going to out run them! He's... he's...turning around! Oh sweet Eru! He's turning around! Bad horse! Don't turn around!) Her silent pleas went unheard.
Morwing had resisted them, but he knew that they would never shake them unless they stood their ground and fought, surly Aireromen would understand that, and even if she did not, it made no matter to him, he was going to fight them regardless.
The Nazgul were thrown off by this sudden and erratical change of plans, but they pointed their swords, ready for the fight.
Aireromen's hand went to her own sword; she pulled it swiftly from its sheath, wielding it up over her head, the blade gleaming in the afternoon sunlight. ' Gurth gothrim Tel'Quessir!' (Death to the foes of the elves!) She screamed at the top of her lungs.
Morwing made a giant leap at the Nazgul, his broad, black chest slamming into the chest of the lead Nazgul's steed, the horse cried in pain and fell over, Morwing rammed at the others who came at him, he reared up, taking the slashes and blows from both Nazgul and steed in order to protect his Aireromen, he would have died for her.
The Nazgul that remained seated, let our fearsome cries and kicked their horses hard, turning them and riding off over the planes, but Aireromen knew that they would be back, for they obviously saw her now as a threat; Aireromen sighed, for she knew that now the main road back to Lothlorien could not be risked, she would have to go past the woods of Lorien and come around the back through the Misty Mountains, almost back the way she came, and enter through Dimrill Dale by the river Silverlode. This way was going to take more than three days to complete, however; she hoped that she would make it back with a few days to spare before Siril's wedding.
* * *
'Where is Aireromen?' Legolas asked eagerly upon his arrival with his father and the Twins into Lothlorien for Siril and Haldir's wedding.
'She is probably here somewhere.' Thranduil dismissed his son's question and slid gracefully from his horse.
'I only figured that she would be here to greet me upon my arrival, since I have not seen her since I propo- uh, I mean, since I last visited with her in Mirkwood.' Legolas shifted his eyes at his father.
Thranduil cast a suspicious glance at his son, (Was he going to say what I thought he was going to say?) He shook his head and began leading his horse to the stables.
'Way to go prince retard, you nearly blurted out your "secret engagement" to your father, even though you are stupid in believing that he does not at least guess at what you two are up to!' Falnier dismounted his horse, looking sternly at Legolas. Malnier nodded his head and came to stand in his usual spot beside his brother, 'Yes, it makes no sense why you want this to be a secret, when we know, and Haldir and Siril know, and I'm sure that Galadriel knows, being a mind reader and all, and your father is smarter than he lets on- OWE! Hey, cut it out Falnier, it was just a joke!' The blonde twin rubbed his ribs gingerly, glaring at his brother before continuing. 'The only one who probably doesn't know is Celeborn, because he's her father and naturally is in denial about your whole relationship.'
'Exactly,' Legolas pointed out. 'Lord Celeborn does not know yet, and I would like to keep it that way, for now.'
Falnier smiled, 'Your afraid of him!' he giggled and poked his brother. 'Legolas is afraid of Celeborn!'
Malnier snickered, his eyes glittering.
Legolas crossed his arms and planted his feet like a small pouting child. 'I am not, I just don't want Celeborn to know until-'
'Until you are far off in the lands of Mordor so he won't kill you in your sleep!' Falnier finished for him. He buckled his knees and collapsed to the grassy ground, laughing hysterically.
Legolas squinted hard, his eyes becoming little blue beads in his face. 'I don't find that very amusing.' He said through gritted teeth.
Falnier slowly rose, brushing off the dirt and leaves. 'It matters not to us, making fun of you is just one of our enjoyable pastimes.' The auburn twin grinned at Legolas from pointed ear to pointed ear.
Legolas rolled his eyes and sighed, he shook his head, turning in defeat to lead his horse to the stables with his father.
Falnier snickered and nudged Malnier, leaning into his ear. 'I win!'
Malnier laughed loudly.
'I heard that, Orc kissers!' Legolas called out to them from ahead.
The twins stopped laughing and glared at each other.
'Let's get him.' Malnier motioned.
'Agreed.' Falnier nodded. The two took control of their horses and ran to catch up to Legolas.
* * *
Celeborn paced the hall, his arms behind his back, the wedding was tomorrow morning, and Aireromen should have been home days ago. Where could she be? What was taking her so long? Perhaps there was something wrong with Morwing and she had to take it slow. A million thoughts like theses raced through his head, he was half inclined to send out a few riders to search for her.
'Celeborn, my love, there you are.' The soft, calm voice of his wife, Galadriel, floated into his thoughts.
Celeborn turned to the door where his wife now stood, one hand resting on the rims. He walked to her, taking her hand in his and bringing it to his lips for a gentle kiss.
'I did not hear you come.' He said softly, gazing into her brilliant blue eyes.
'You seemed distant my love, what troubles you? It is the fact that Aireromen is not home yet isn't it? Do not worry, I know she will be here soon...she was delayed, though by and for what I do not yet know.' Galadriel kissed her husband softly on his lips. 'Come, breakfast has been prepared for all, and we must not leave our guests alone.'
Celeborn held her hand to his chest, stroking it lightly. He nodded and followed his wife below to the long banquet table.
* * *
Night was setting in; the temperature was dropping, and all around her the noises and sounds of the forest rang mercilessly into her tiered ears as she led Morwing on foot to Lothlorien.
Aireromen sighed, and stumbled a little, she had not slept in many, many days, she did not dare to until she was home in her own bed.
Morwing hung his tiered head beside her as they trudged on, picking their way through up grown roots and uneven ground. At least they could be thankful that they were now in Lothlorien and not traveling in zigzags to get here through the Misty Mountains.
Aireromen gazed up at the canopy, through the trees she could just make out the moon, shining like a silver sphere in the sky. She smiled a little; she was feeling less and less threatened by her surroundings now that she could see the moon from under her own home.
She glanced over at her horse, patting him gently on his neck, 'Come along Morwing, it won't be long now, we are nearly there.'
An hour later, the soft silver lights of Lothlorien enveloped around to two weary travelers, Aireromen walked slowly, swaying a little in her effort to stay awake and not collapse onto the ground where she was and go to sleep.
'There you are! I am SO angry with you!' Siril came running to her from a nearby tree. 'Here it is, the night before my wedding and you decided to show up now! When you should have been home almost a week ago! You were supposed to help me and instead I had to do it all by myself! I can't believe you!' Siril stood with her arms folded, staring down her friend, her eyes cutting in like daggers.
'It's nice to see you too.' Aireromen said dryly, her eyelids half open.
Siril's eyes widened, she scanned her friend over, Aireromen's long blonde hair was tangled and bits of leaves and twigs were strewn about it, her tunic was torn at the shoulder and her leggings were smeared with mud and grass stains.
'What in the name of the elven stars happened to you?' Siril raised an eyebrow.
Aireromen shrugged sleepily, 'It's a long story, I'll tell you later.' She turned without even saying goodnight and trudged off slowly to the stables.
Morwing was more than happy to be in his stall, he ate some of his dinner that Aireromen had placed down for him and them he drank a little water before bedding down for a nice long rest.
Aireromen watched him for a minute or two. 'That's what I'm going to do now...sleep... I need to sleep.' She bid her sleeping horse goodnight and walked out of the stables, heading to the winding stairs up into the tree top city.
'Aire!' came a familiar voice.
Aireromen turned around groggily; she blinked a bit trying to focus.
Legolas was jogging up to her, a smile on his face.
'There you are, everyone has been worried, we thought that you would never make it back.' Legolas wrapped his arms around her in a tight, warm hug. He kissed the top of her blonde head, pulling away to notice the leaves and twigs in it.
He gave her a puzzling look and picked them out before asking her why she was so dirty.
'I was chased..' she said
Legolas's face was full of concern. 'Chased? By whom?'
'Ringwraiths,' she said calmly. 'Five of them, I don't know what they wanted with me, but to make a long story short, I back tracked through the misty Mountains and came here to Lothlorien from behind.'
'So the Ringwraiths have returned, it seems my father was correct, evil is stirring in the land of Mordor.' Legolas's face was grave.
Aireromen nodded her head, 'It would appear that way.' She leaned into him, wishing more than anything to go to sleep. She didn't care what was stirring in any part of Middle-earth; all she wanted was to fall into her soft bed and go to sleep.
Legolas kissed her and rubbed her arms. 'Come, you look tired, you must rest.' He took her hand in his and walked with her up the stairs to the elven city.
'Aireromen!' Celeborn called to her as she and Legolas walked over a bridge in the trees.
Aireromen stopped, rolling her eyes and sighing heavily. 'Oh sweet Eru what now?' she groaned.
Legolas chuckled a little at her, kissing her cheek. 'Don't worry, you'll be sleeping soon.'
'Not for a while, your father is with him, they probably want to know what Elrond had to say.' She said
Aireromen put on a fake smile as her father and Thranduil approached.
'Aireromen, where in the stars have you been?' Celeborn's face was slightly flushed and his eyes were glittering with worry. He cast a stern glance at Legolas, he had noticed their tender moment that Legolas would have preferred him not to see.
Legolas lifted his eyes up at Celeborn, and then shamefully lowered them to his feet, not wishing to look into his eyes. He folded his hands behind his back and shifted his weight uneasily.
Aireromen rubbed her right arm tenderly, there was a giant bruise forming there and it ached mercilessly. She gazed up at her father, and then sighed sleepily. 'I am sorry father, I delivered your message as you asked, but on the way back home I was ambushed by Black Riders, there was at most five of them, and they were chasing me, Morwing and I were able to push them off for a while, but I felt that it would be safer if I cut back through the misty mountains, and came here later that expected, rather than risk the main road and the chance of another ambush.' She caught the worried glance that Celeborn and Thranduil gave eachother. 'I hope that you understand, I thought it all for the best.'
After a moment of silence, Celeborn nodded and looked to Thranduil, 'I think we had better speak in private.'
Thranduil nodded in agreement and turned to leave.
'Aireromen, you shall come with us, we would like to ask you a few more questions.' Celeborn gave a stern look at Legolas. 'JUST you. Your.... friend shall have to continue on without you.' He eyed Legolas once more with a father's untrusting glance and turned to follow Thranduil.
Aireromen shook her head, turning to face Legolas, who was standing ridged, a bit angry and slightly annoyed with the Lothlorien Lord.
'I am sorry Legolas, he comes across rough, but really he means-'
'He hates me.' Legolas broke in. 'He treats me as if I am of some threat to him, as though I mean to take his place. Why can't he just accept me?' Legolas clenched his fist, then sighed, letting his shoulders sag.
Aireromen placed a hand on his face, she stood up on her tiptoes and gently kissed his lips, she then smiled at his expression that he gave her and ran her fingers through his hair, fiddling with his braids. 'It will be all right. Trust me'
He placed his hand over hers on his face and gave her a small grin.
'AIREROMEN!' Celeborn's voice made her jump.
She sighed, and cast another glance at Legolas, rolling her eyes. 'I had better go before he throws a tantrum.' She kissed him again, and then turned to walk away. 'I love you' she called out to him as she left. 'I love you too.' He whispered, and with a heavy sigh continued on his way, alone.
Aireromen sat in a small room, across from her sat her father and King Thranduil, both questioning her mercilessly about what Elrond had said, about what she saw, and what was going on in Rivendell at that moment. She told them all that she knew, she said that there seemed to be a council soon to take part, and that Elrond wished for them to come, or if they could not, to send someone in their place as a representative.
The questioning continued, Aireromen's eyes drooped, she was so incredibly tiered, why couldn't they see that? She just wanted to sleep, was that too much to ask? She finally could not bear it any longer; she let out a frustrated groan and stood up swiftly.
'Enough! That is enough! I will not answer any more questions! I'm done! I wish to sleep, I have not slept in close to a week!' She paced in front of the elven kings, who sat dumbfounded at her ravings. 'I do not know anything! You are the ones who have been talking to Elrond, if you want to know then go and write him a blasted letter yourselves and send it to him! I'm going to bed.'
She bowed slightly and left the room, slamming the door behind her.
Thranduil shook his head and nudged Celeborn. 'What is wrong with her?'
Celeborn shrugged.
* * *
Aireromen stormed across the bridge, she was so busy muttering to herself that she ran smack into Legolas.
'Oh, I'm so sorry, I.I'm just so tiered, and SO angry.' She puffed.
Legolas smiled. 'It is quite all right, your forgiven.'
'What are you still doing up?' she raised an eyebrow intuitively.
He shrugged, 'I thought I would wait for you so I can walk you to your room.' He kissed her forehead.
Aireromen smiled, kissing him back. 'Thank you.' She whispered into his ear.
Legolas leaned down, embracing her and kissing her tenderly. He pulled away and held out his arm, 'Shall we then?'
She laughed and placed her hand in the crook of his arm and together they walked off into the dark.
* * *
The morning came and of course with it, Siril and Haldir's wedding, everything was beautiful, the wind was not too strong, yet enough to keep it cool and comfortable, Siril looked radiant in her flowing blue gown, and Haldir was wearing a shinning tunic to match. Needless to say, everything went rather smoothly, aside from the small squabble that broke out between Malnier and Falnier when they were presenting Haldir with the ring to give to Siril. They shoved and pushed a little, and had to be separated.
Everyone now sat or stood around laughing, singing, or just talking to others, enjoying the wonderful, tasty food that was provided.
The happy new couple were sitting side by side at a long table, giving eachother mooneyes and laughing and giggling like school children, paying absolutely no attention to anyone or anything else around them. Galadriel, Celeborn, and Thranduil were chatting at the table as well. Legolas and Aireromen were dancing together along with many other elves. The twins, however, were at their usual place at parties, standing, or should I say, swaying back and forth next to the wine bowl, somewhere between their 23rd and 25th glass. They seemed to be having a competition (as usual) to see who could drink the most. Now, usually elves didn't drink this much, but we all know the twins are an exception to the rule in every elven ritual and tradition created.
Legolas and Aireromen came and sat down next to their parents, resting a bit before they went back to dance again. Celeborn and Thranduil were talking loudly.
'It came as quite a shock to me, and you think I would have known, she's practically my daughter.' Celeborn said, taking a sip from his glass, and looking at Legolas.
Legolas glanced at him quickly, his mind starting to worry.
Celeborn returned his attention to Thranduil. 'Why they kept their relationship a secret before this was a mystery to me, the sensible thing to do..' he again glanced at Legolas. 'The right thing to do would have been to announce it to everyone. To leave people in the dark about these sort of things is bad form.'
Beads of sweat began to form on Legolas's forehead. (Oh Eru...he doesn't know does he? Oh sweet elven goddess I'm dead!)
'Well, maybe he was just a little nervous as to how her father would react.' Thranduil reasoned, taking a sip.
'True, but all the same, he should have asked her father first, that is what I would have wanted.' Celeborn stated.
Legolas didn't know how much more of this he could take..
'Legolas, are you alright my son?' Thranduil glanced at his son.
'What?' He started, shaking nervously.
Celeborn cast an odd look at him. 'Something bothering you lad?'
Legolas's eyes were wide as he looked at Celeborn. 'No...no, nothing is wrong. There's no engagement.'
Aireromen shot her head in his direction, shocked.
Celeborn raised an eyebrow. 'I didn't ask you anything about an engagement...who's engagement are you talking about?' Celeborn pressed him.
Legolas's mouth opened, stuttering. 'I...we..I was just- um..'
Thranduil shook his head and let it fall into his hands.
Aireromen glanced at Legolas; she nudged him, and nodded.
Legolas took in a deep breath and gulped hard, he stood up, facing Celeborn. 'A few months back, I... Well, I meant to ask you but..I asked your daughter to marry me.' He let out a sigh, waiting for Celeborn to stand up and bring his wrath down upon him.
Celeborn let out a sigh and nodded, this was something he had suspected, but he had to admit, he was not ready for it. He looked into Legolas's eyes. 'Did anyone know besides you two?'
'WE KNEW!' Falnier slurred from over at the wine bowl. 'He toll ussss um... sometime ago. Right Malnier, it was a time ago...it wassss..uh..I don remember.' Malnier only nodded, and continued drinking.
Celeborn rolled his eyes at the twins. 'I should have known.' He stood up and looked at Legolas, extending his hand to him. 'Very well, you have my blessing.'
Legolas took his hand uneasily; he was even more shocked when Celeborn embraced him. Was this all because of the wine? Would he feel the same once the wine wore off?
'You have my most welcome blessing as well, my son.' Thranduil stood and embraced his son and Aireromen as well.
Aireromen went to her father, taking his hand. 'You are all right with this then?'
Celeborn smiled down at her, hugging her. 'I'm your father, I shall never be all right with this, but I want you to be happy. Legolas is a good elf, and I do not doubt that he will make a great king some day. I accept it.' He kissed her cheek. 'Just give me a few days to be depressed about it.'
Father and daughter laughed together and both hugged eachother long.
Malnier wiped a tear from his eye, 'It's all so beautiful.' He started to cry, and hugged his brother.
Falnier looked at his brother in disgust, pushing him away. 'Pull yourself together.' He took another long sip, ignoring his brother's yelp as he toppled backwards to the ground.
Falnier kicked him in the leg. 'Are you alive?'
'I think so...hand me another glass.' Malnier replied from the ground.
Thranduil and Celeborn were the only ones after that who were not in high spirits, they had more to discuss in private.
'A shame that this happiness will be short lived.' Thranduil said as the elven lords walked away.
'Yes, Im afraid that soon, there will be more problems than we can deal with.' Celeborn replied.
Thranduil nodded. 'It has only just begun, the quiet before the storm, that is what this is... The quiet before the storm.'
-Squijim
Chapter 11: The Growing Darkness
The vastness of the land between Lothlorien and Rivendell had never been fully realized by Aireromen as she and Morwing traveled from Elrond's elven refuge, back to her home. For some reason the trip to Rivendell had seemed shorter, but then that was probably due to the fact that she had ridden hard and fast all the way there, all for a letter that her father wanted to get to Elrond immediately.
What ever the contents of the letter were, it had to be the gravest of emergencies to get it there so quickly. Her father had looked so troubled and worried when he had handed her the letter, she wondered what news was passing between the elven lords.
More than anything else, Aireromen was shocked that her father had chosen her, above all the others to get the letter to Rivendell.
'Aire, I need you to get this letter to Imladris immediately, it cannot wait.' Celeborn handed a letter written on parchment to her, his grey eyes burning into hers.
'Me? Why not send a page?' she questioned, furrowing her eyebrows.
'Because you can get it there faster, Morwing has more speed and endurance than any elven horse I've known. He can withstand the strains it will take to get it there.' Celeborn nodded.
Aireromen smiled wryly. 'So you've finally warmed up to him then?'
Her father's face was hard as stone. 'There is no time for your jokes Aire, run to the kitchen and take as much Lembas as you and Morwing will need, then begon before the sun is set.'
'Yes, father.' Aireromen straightened her face and jogged off.
Morwing let out a loud snort, bringing Aireromen back to the present. She leaned down, patting the horse on his neck. 'I know Morwing, I'm anxious to get home as well, but we still have a good 3 days ride ahead of us before we even set foot on the boarders of Lorien.
Aireromen sighed, she might as well enjoy the quiet time while she could, for once she got back home she was going to be helping an ecstatic Siril plan for her wedding to Haldir in a week. She and Haldir were engaged soon after Legolas and Aireromen were, but they were rushing things, not wishing to wait. Not as if Aireromen could plan for her own wedding anyway, she and Legolas were keeping the news a secret, waiting for the right time to announce it to everyone. She kept the ring that Legolas had given her in a small box by her bed; she did not wear it because then someone would surely notice.
Morwing came to a sudden stop, his head turned to the South, his ears pricked forward, the very tips of them almost touching. His nostrils flared and his red eyes glittered.
Aireromen sat stiff, listening. A shadow fell over her thoughts. There was something out there, though even with her keen elven eyes she saw nothing. A feeling came rushing over her that made her wish she were hidden from sight. Her hand slid down to her sword, her fingers touching the hilt lightly.
Aireromen's eyes shifted around the landscape about her, searching for any sign of movement.
Over the grassy planes came a blood-chilling cry. Morwing let out a shrill, frightened neigh, rearing up into the air, his hooves pawing and slashing at the wind. He came down hard, nearly causing Aireromen to slid right off his back, she stroked his neck and spoke softly into his ear. 'It's okay Morwing.. It's okay.'
There came another chilling cry, this time answered by another not to far away, it sent a cold shiver down Aireromen's spine. She had recognized the cry. Ringwraiths.
Morwing half reared again, lurching forward, moving awkwardly, wanting to run but still trying to listen to the commands of his rider.
Over a high hill above them came five Ringwraiths, all seemed to be staring down at Aireromen and Morwing. Then, in a sudden, ghostly movement, the black riders took off down the hill, their steeds tearing up the ground as the approached.
Aireromen kicked hard, sending Morwing speeding away from the black forms coming ever closer to them, she urged the black stallion on, faster and faster; the cries from the Ringwraiths piercing her ears from behind. She looked back, the five Ringwraiths had drawn their swords, brandishing them towards her.
'Faster Morwing! FASTER!' she bent down, calling into his ear.
Morwing breathed in deeply and strained his head down and forwards, urging his legs to go farther, straining and pulling the muscles, demanding them to go faster, ignoring the tight pain that traveled through his legs like a bullet. His long main and tail whipped back behind him, flapping like a great black silky banner in the wind from his own speed.
Aireromen glanced back again; they were beginning to draw further away from the black riders, but not enough for comfort.
The leader let out an odd, shrill call, Morwing's ears swept back, listening, his strides faltered, he began to slow down. The strange calls continued, and with each one, Morwing's pace was slowed.
Aireromen urged him forward, but to no avail, the cries continued, she realized with horror that they were calling to Morwing! Morwing's father had been a Nazgul steed, it was in his blood, and the black riders were using it against him.
Aireromen called to her horse, 'Fight it Morwing! You have to fight it! You're not one of them. Don't give in! MORWING!'
Her pleas did nothing, his stride slowed even more, the black riders were beginning to surround her, each taking a side, they reached out with their frightening hands, trying to grab at her.
Aireromen closed her eyes and whispered low and soft into Morwing's ear, her voice deepened and her face grew hard as stone. ' Ed' Eru, rima Morwing! Sii'!' (By God, run Morwing! Now!)
Morwing's head shot straight up, he let out a snort and surged his black body forward, smashing his strong chest hard against the steed of the Ringwraith infront of him. The cursed horse squealed in pain and stumbled aside, allowing room for Morwing to gallop through, charging on, quickly gaining speed and distance from the Nazgul.
A smiled formed slightly on Aireromen's face, she urged her horse on. (Oh thank Eru; we're going to make it! Morwing is fighting them, he's speeding up, he's going to out run them! He's... he's...turning around! Oh sweet Eru! He's turning around! Bad horse! Don't turn around!) Her silent pleas went unheard.
Morwing had resisted them, but he knew that they would never shake them unless they stood their ground and fought, surly Aireromen would understand that, and even if she did not, it made no matter to him, he was going to fight them regardless.
The Nazgul were thrown off by this sudden and erratical change of plans, but they pointed their swords, ready for the fight.
Aireromen's hand went to her own sword; she pulled it swiftly from its sheath, wielding it up over her head, the blade gleaming in the afternoon sunlight. ' Gurth gothrim Tel'Quessir!' (Death to the foes of the elves!) She screamed at the top of her lungs.
Morwing made a giant leap at the Nazgul, his broad, black chest slamming into the chest of the lead Nazgul's steed, the horse cried in pain and fell over, Morwing rammed at the others who came at him, he reared up, taking the slashes and blows from both Nazgul and steed in order to protect his Aireromen, he would have died for her.
The Nazgul that remained seated, let our fearsome cries and kicked their horses hard, turning them and riding off over the planes, but Aireromen knew that they would be back, for they obviously saw her now as a threat; Aireromen sighed, for she knew that now the main road back to Lothlorien could not be risked, she would have to go past the woods of Lorien and come around the back through the Misty Mountains, almost back the way she came, and enter through Dimrill Dale by the river Silverlode. This way was going to take more than three days to complete, however; she hoped that she would make it back with a few days to spare before Siril's wedding.
* * *
'Where is Aireromen?' Legolas asked eagerly upon his arrival with his father and the Twins into Lothlorien for Siril and Haldir's wedding.
'She is probably here somewhere.' Thranduil dismissed his son's question and slid gracefully from his horse.
'I only figured that she would be here to greet me upon my arrival, since I have not seen her since I propo- uh, I mean, since I last visited with her in Mirkwood.' Legolas shifted his eyes at his father.
Thranduil cast a suspicious glance at his son, (Was he going to say what I thought he was going to say?) He shook his head and began leading his horse to the stables.
'Way to go prince retard, you nearly blurted out your "secret engagement" to your father, even though you are stupid in believing that he does not at least guess at what you two are up to!' Falnier dismounted his horse, looking sternly at Legolas. Malnier nodded his head and came to stand in his usual spot beside his brother, 'Yes, it makes no sense why you want this to be a secret, when we know, and Haldir and Siril know, and I'm sure that Galadriel knows, being a mind reader and all, and your father is smarter than he lets on- OWE! Hey, cut it out Falnier, it was just a joke!' The blonde twin rubbed his ribs gingerly, glaring at his brother before continuing. 'The only one who probably doesn't know is Celeborn, because he's her father and naturally is in denial about your whole relationship.'
'Exactly,' Legolas pointed out. 'Lord Celeborn does not know yet, and I would like to keep it that way, for now.'
Falnier smiled, 'Your afraid of him!' he giggled and poked his brother. 'Legolas is afraid of Celeborn!'
Malnier snickered, his eyes glittering.
Legolas crossed his arms and planted his feet like a small pouting child. 'I am not, I just don't want Celeborn to know until-'
'Until you are far off in the lands of Mordor so he won't kill you in your sleep!' Falnier finished for him. He buckled his knees and collapsed to the grassy ground, laughing hysterically.
Legolas squinted hard, his eyes becoming little blue beads in his face. 'I don't find that very amusing.' He said through gritted teeth.
Falnier slowly rose, brushing off the dirt and leaves. 'It matters not to us, making fun of you is just one of our enjoyable pastimes.' The auburn twin grinned at Legolas from pointed ear to pointed ear.
Legolas rolled his eyes and sighed, he shook his head, turning in defeat to lead his horse to the stables with his father.
Falnier snickered and nudged Malnier, leaning into his ear. 'I win!'
Malnier laughed loudly.
'I heard that, Orc kissers!' Legolas called out to them from ahead.
The twins stopped laughing and glared at each other.
'Let's get him.' Malnier motioned.
'Agreed.' Falnier nodded. The two took control of their horses and ran to catch up to Legolas.
* * *
Celeborn paced the hall, his arms behind his back, the wedding was tomorrow morning, and Aireromen should have been home days ago. Where could she be? What was taking her so long? Perhaps there was something wrong with Morwing and she had to take it slow. A million thoughts like theses raced through his head, he was half inclined to send out a few riders to search for her.
'Celeborn, my love, there you are.' The soft, calm voice of his wife, Galadriel, floated into his thoughts.
Celeborn turned to the door where his wife now stood, one hand resting on the rims. He walked to her, taking her hand in his and bringing it to his lips for a gentle kiss.
'I did not hear you come.' He said softly, gazing into her brilliant blue eyes.
'You seemed distant my love, what troubles you? It is the fact that Aireromen is not home yet isn't it? Do not worry, I know she will be here soon...she was delayed, though by and for what I do not yet know.' Galadriel kissed her husband softly on his lips. 'Come, breakfast has been prepared for all, and we must not leave our guests alone.'
Celeborn held her hand to his chest, stroking it lightly. He nodded and followed his wife below to the long banquet table.
* * *
Night was setting in; the temperature was dropping, and all around her the noises and sounds of the forest rang mercilessly into her tiered ears as she led Morwing on foot to Lothlorien.
Aireromen sighed, and stumbled a little, she had not slept in many, many days, she did not dare to until she was home in her own bed.
Morwing hung his tiered head beside her as they trudged on, picking their way through up grown roots and uneven ground. At least they could be thankful that they were now in Lothlorien and not traveling in zigzags to get here through the Misty Mountains.
Aireromen gazed up at the canopy, through the trees she could just make out the moon, shining like a silver sphere in the sky. She smiled a little; she was feeling less and less threatened by her surroundings now that she could see the moon from under her own home.
She glanced over at her horse, patting him gently on his neck, 'Come along Morwing, it won't be long now, we are nearly there.'
An hour later, the soft silver lights of Lothlorien enveloped around to two weary travelers, Aireromen walked slowly, swaying a little in her effort to stay awake and not collapse onto the ground where she was and go to sleep.
'There you are! I am SO angry with you!' Siril came running to her from a nearby tree. 'Here it is, the night before my wedding and you decided to show up now! When you should have been home almost a week ago! You were supposed to help me and instead I had to do it all by myself! I can't believe you!' Siril stood with her arms folded, staring down her friend, her eyes cutting in like daggers.
'It's nice to see you too.' Aireromen said dryly, her eyelids half open.
Siril's eyes widened, she scanned her friend over, Aireromen's long blonde hair was tangled and bits of leaves and twigs were strewn about it, her tunic was torn at the shoulder and her leggings were smeared with mud and grass stains.
'What in the name of the elven stars happened to you?' Siril raised an eyebrow.
Aireromen shrugged sleepily, 'It's a long story, I'll tell you later.' She turned without even saying goodnight and trudged off slowly to the stables.
Morwing was more than happy to be in his stall, he ate some of his dinner that Aireromen had placed down for him and them he drank a little water before bedding down for a nice long rest.
Aireromen watched him for a minute or two. 'That's what I'm going to do now...sleep... I need to sleep.' She bid her sleeping horse goodnight and walked out of the stables, heading to the winding stairs up into the tree top city.
'Aire!' came a familiar voice.
Aireromen turned around groggily; she blinked a bit trying to focus.
Legolas was jogging up to her, a smile on his face.
'There you are, everyone has been worried, we thought that you would never make it back.' Legolas wrapped his arms around her in a tight, warm hug. He kissed the top of her blonde head, pulling away to notice the leaves and twigs in it.
He gave her a puzzling look and picked them out before asking her why she was so dirty.
'I was chased..' she said
Legolas's face was full of concern. 'Chased? By whom?'
'Ringwraiths,' she said calmly. 'Five of them, I don't know what they wanted with me, but to make a long story short, I back tracked through the misty Mountains and came here to Lothlorien from behind.'
'So the Ringwraiths have returned, it seems my father was correct, evil is stirring in the land of Mordor.' Legolas's face was grave.
Aireromen nodded her head, 'It would appear that way.' She leaned into him, wishing more than anything to go to sleep. She didn't care what was stirring in any part of Middle-earth; all she wanted was to fall into her soft bed and go to sleep.
Legolas kissed her and rubbed her arms. 'Come, you look tired, you must rest.' He took her hand in his and walked with her up the stairs to the elven city.
'Aireromen!' Celeborn called to her as she and Legolas walked over a bridge in the trees.
Aireromen stopped, rolling her eyes and sighing heavily. 'Oh sweet Eru what now?' she groaned.
Legolas chuckled a little at her, kissing her cheek. 'Don't worry, you'll be sleeping soon.'
'Not for a while, your father is with him, they probably want to know what Elrond had to say.' She said
Aireromen put on a fake smile as her father and Thranduil approached.
'Aireromen, where in the stars have you been?' Celeborn's face was slightly flushed and his eyes were glittering with worry. He cast a stern glance at Legolas, he had noticed their tender moment that Legolas would have preferred him not to see.
Legolas lifted his eyes up at Celeborn, and then shamefully lowered them to his feet, not wishing to look into his eyes. He folded his hands behind his back and shifted his weight uneasily.
Aireromen rubbed her right arm tenderly, there was a giant bruise forming there and it ached mercilessly. She gazed up at her father, and then sighed sleepily. 'I am sorry father, I delivered your message as you asked, but on the way back home I was ambushed by Black Riders, there was at most five of them, and they were chasing me, Morwing and I were able to push them off for a while, but I felt that it would be safer if I cut back through the misty mountains, and came here later that expected, rather than risk the main road and the chance of another ambush.' She caught the worried glance that Celeborn and Thranduil gave eachother. 'I hope that you understand, I thought it all for the best.'
After a moment of silence, Celeborn nodded and looked to Thranduil, 'I think we had better speak in private.'
Thranduil nodded in agreement and turned to leave.
'Aireromen, you shall come with us, we would like to ask you a few more questions.' Celeborn gave a stern look at Legolas. 'JUST you. Your.... friend shall have to continue on without you.' He eyed Legolas once more with a father's untrusting glance and turned to follow Thranduil.
Aireromen shook her head, turning to face Legolas, who was standing ridged, a bit angry and slightly annoyed with the Lothlorien Lord.
'I am sorry Legolas, he comes across rough, but really he means-'
'He hates me.' Legolas broke in. 'He treats me as if I am of some threat to him, as though I mean to take his place. Why can't he just accept me?' Legolas clenched his fist, then sighed, letting his shoulders sag.
Aireromen placed a hand on his face, she stood up on her tiptoes and gently kissed his lips, she then smiled at his expression that he gave her and ran her fingers through his hair, fiddling with his braids. 'It will be all right. Trust me'
He placed his hand over hers on his face and gave her a small grin.
'AIREROMEN!' Celeborn's voice made her jump.
She sighed, and cast another glance at Legolas, rolling her eyes. 'I had better go before he throws a tantrum.' She kissed him again, and then turned to walk away. 'I love you' she called out to him as she left. 'I love you too.' He whispered, and with a heavy sigh continued on his way, alone.
Aireromen sat in a small room, across from her sat her father and King Thranduil, both questioning her mercilessly about what Elrond had said, about what she saw, and what was going on in Rivendell at that moment. She told them all that she knew, she said that there seemed to be a council soon to take part, and that Elrond wished for them to come, or if they could not, to send someone in their place as a representative.
The questioning continued, Aireromen's eyes drooped, she was so incredibly tiered, why couldn't they see that? She just wanted to sleep, was that too much to ask? She finally could not bear it any longer; she let out a frustrated groan and stood up swiftly.
'Enough! That is enough! I will not answer any more questions! I'm done! I wish to sleep, I have not slept in close to a week!' She paced in front of the elven kings, who sat dumbfounded at her ravings. 'I do not know anything! You are the ones who have been talking to Elrond, if you want to know then go and write him a blasted letter yourselves and send it to him! I'm going to bed.'
She bowed slightly and left the room, slamming the door behind her.
Thranduil shook his head and nudged Celeborn. 'What is wrong with her?'
Celeborn shrugged.
* * *
Aireromen stormed across the bridge, she was so busy muttering to herself that she ran smack into Legolas.
'Oh, I'm so sorry, I.I'm just so tiered, and SO angry.' She puffed.
Legolas smiled. 'It is quite all right, your forgiven.'
'What are you still doing up?' she raised an eyebrow intuitively.
He shrugged, 'I thought I would wait for you so I can walk you to your room.' He kissed her forehead.
Aireromen smiled, kissing him back. 'Thank you.' She whispered into his ear.
Legolas leaned down, embracing her and kissing her tenderly. He pulled away and held out his arm, 'Shall we then?'
She laughed and placed her hand in the crook of his arm and together they walked off into the dark.
* * *
The morning came and of course with it, Siril and Haldir's wedding, everything was beautiful, the wind was not too strong, yet enough to keep it cool and comfortable, Siril looked radiant in her flowing blue gown, and Haldir was wearing a shinning tunic to match. Needless to say, everything went rather smoothly, aside from the small squabble that broke out between Malnier and Falnier when they were presenting Haldir with the ring to give to Siril. They shoved and pushed a little, and had to be separated.
Everyone now sat or stood around laughing, singing, or just talking to others, enjoying the wonderful, tasty food that was provided.
The happy new couple were sitting side by side at a long table, giving eachother mooneyes and laughing and giggling like school children, paying absolutely no attention to anyone or anything else around them. Galadriel, Celeborn, and Thranduil were chatting at the table as well. Legolas and Aireromen were dancing together along with many other elves. The twins, however, were at their usual place at parties, standing, or should I say, swaying back and forth next to the wine bowl, somewhere between their 23rd and 25th glass. They seemed to be having a competition (as usual) to see who could drink the most. Now, usually elves didn't drink this much, but we all know the twins are an exception to the rule in every elven ritual and tradition created.
Legolas and Aireromen came and sat down next to their parents, resting a bit before they went back to dance again. Celeborn and Thranduil were talking loudly.
'It came as quite a shock to me, and you think I would have known, she's practically my daughter.' Celeborn said, taking a sip from his glass, and looking at Legolas.
Legolas glanced at him quickly, his mind starting to worry.
Celeborn returned his attention to Thranduil. 'Why they kept their relationship a secret before this was a mystery to me, the sensible thing to do..' he again glanced at Legolas. 'The right thing to do would have been to announce it to everyone. To leave people in the dark about these sort of things is bad form.'
Beads of sweat began to form on Legolas's forehead. (Oh Eru...he doesn't know does he? Oh sweet elven goddess I'm dead!)
'Well, maybe he was just a little nervous as to how her father would react.' Thranduil reasoned, taking a sip.
'True, but all the same, he should have asked her father first, that is what I would have wanted.' Celeborn stated.
Legolas didn't know how much more of this he could take..
'Legolas, are you alright my son?' Thranduil glanced at his son.
'What?' He started, shaking nervously.
Celeborn cast an odd look at him. 'Something bothering you lad?'
Legolas's eyes were wide as he looked at Celeborn. 'No...no, nothing is wrong. There's no engagement.'
Aireromen shot her head in his direction, shocked.
Celeborn raised an eyebrow. 'I didn't ask you anything about an engagement...who's engagement are you talking about?' Celeborn pressed him.
Legolas's mouth opened, stuttering. 'I...we..I was just- um..'
Thranduil shook his head and let it fall into his hands.
Aireromen glanced at Legolas; she nudged him, and nodded.
Legolas took in a deep breath and gulped hard, he stood up, facing Celeborn. 'A few months back, I... Well, I meant to ask you but..I asked your daughter to marry me.' He let out a sigh, waiting for Celeborn to stand up and bring his wrath down upon him.
Celeborn let out a sigh and nodded, this was something he had suspected, but he had to admit, he was not ready for it. He looked into Legolas's eyes. 'Did anyone know besides you two?'
'WE KNEW!' Falnier slurred from over at the wine bowl. 'He toll ussss um... sometime ago. Right Malnier, it was a time ago...it wassss..uh..I don remember.' Malnier only nodded, and continued drinking.
Celeborn rolled his eyes at the twins. 'I should have known.' He stood up and looked at Legolas, extending his hand to him. 'Very well, you have my blessing.'
Legolas took his hand uneasily; he was even more shocked when Celeborn embraced him. Was this all because of the wine? Would he feel the same once the wine wore off?
'You have my most welcome blessing as well, my son.' Thranduil stood and embraced his son and Aireromen as well.
Aireromen went to her father, taking his hand. 'You are all right with this then?'
Celeborn smiled down at her, hugging her. 'I'm your father, I shall never be all right with this, but I want you to be happy. Legolas is a good elf, and I do not doubt that he will make a great king some day. I accept it.' He kissed her cheek. 'Just give me a few days to be depressed about it.'
Father and daughter laughed together and both hugged eachother long.
Malnier wiped a tear from his eye, 'It's all so beautiful.' He started to cry, and hugged his brother.
Falnier looked at his brother in disgust, pushing him away. 'Pull yourself together.' He took another long sip, ignoring his brother's yelp as he toppled backwards to the ground.
Falnier kicked him in the leg. 'Are you alive?'
'I think so...hand me another glass.' Malnier replied from the ground.
Thranduil and Celeborn were the only ones after that who were not in high spirits, they had more to discuss in private.
'A shame that this happiness will be short lived.' Thranduil said as the elven lords walked away.
'Yes, Im afraid that soon, there will be more problems than we can deal with.' Celeborn replied.
Thranduil nodded. 'It has only just begun, the quiet before the storm, that is what this is... The quiet before the storm.'