Chapter 7
"Noro lim, Asfaloth! We have no time to lose!" Glorfindel shouted to the Elven horse. Like an arrow released from a bow Asfaloth sprung away, his hooves making sparks on the road. Glorfindel bent over low, urging the horse faster. Asfaloth responded with even more blinding speed.
"We must hurry!" he told the horse in Elvish. Glorfindel clung to the white horse's mane, his golden hair flying out behind him.
"We have to get to Mirkwood! Imladris's fate depends on it!" Glorfindel said anxiously. The mystical horse gave a loud battle cry, and bolted away from Rivendell's borders, nearly leaving Glorfindel behind.
****
Laurelin sighed impatiently while she tapped her fingers on the table next to her.
"This reception is taking much longer than I thought it would," she thought. Legolas was talking to Isitur over by the punch bowl, Retkia was dancing with Gabriel, Lizule was sitting in a corner pouting, Thranduil was talking to some of the guests, and Totholain was. she blinked twice when she realized he was not there.
"Where is Totholain?" she wondered, searching the crowd for his handsome face.
"It isn't like him not to be here. I know he isn't the biggest fan of parties, but he would never just not show up."
She shrugged and took a sip out of the glass she was holding to act like she was having fun. Flinging her hair over her shoulder, she took to daydreaming to keep herself occupied until Legolas was ready to go upstairs and go to sleep.
"Not that he will be getting any sleep," she thought. "I won't either."
Lizule, who was sitting across the room, noticed her friend looked a bit bored with the celebration.
"I wonder what is wrong," she thought. "She just married the most gorgeous Prince in the world, and she can't even be a tad excited?"
Lizule inhaled a deep whiff of air and stood up. Placing her goblet of red wine on a counter, she went over to Laurelin and bid her goodnight. Laurelin gave a nod of recognition and continued on with her thoughts. Lizule shook her head slowly and left the palace halls. Moonlight shone through the windows and cast shadowy reflections across the walls of the palace. She walked quickly, not totally trusting the security of the palace gates. A moan from the wind caused her to jump.
"Come on, grow up," she told herself. "You are acting like a child." She proceeded to her chambers and locked the door. Casting herself on her bed, she buried her face in its soft satin sheets and burst into tears.
****
Legolas nodded, pretending to understand what Isitur was talking about.
"Yes, of course," he said, not even knowing what the comment was. He glanced over at Laurelin, who seemed to be having a very dull time at the moment. He knew how she felt; he felt the same way.
"Why won't this thing be over? I hope Father dismisses the crowd soon," he thought. Isitur kept rambling on, oblivious to the fact that Legolas was not paying attention at all.
"By the Valar, will he ever just be quiet?" Legolas thought. "He sure can talk when you get him started. Poor Totholain. He hardly talks, and this guy talks all the time. They must make each other miserable."
"My Lord?" Legolas snapped out of his thoughts to see Isitur staring at him, obviously expecting an answer to his statement.
"Um, I'm sorry, what was the question again?"
"Do you think that we need to improve the security of the palace since all of this new talk of Orcs and such?" Isitur said, not annoyed at all.
"I actually believe the palace is quite safe. It has magic surrounding it that only a host of Elves could break through."
"You do have a point my Lord. Unfortunately, there are some who think differently."
"Like who?" Legolas demanded, suddenly interested in the conversation.
Isitur shifted uncomfortably. "Well, like."
Isitur was saved from having to explain who it was. Thranduil stepped into the middle of the ballroom and said,
"Lords and Ladies, it is past 1 o clock, and I believe some of the Elflings need their sleep. So if you can just wrap things up and go back home, that would be great."
Isitur, seeing his opportunity, bolted away from Legolas and melted into the crowd.
Legolas growled. What Isitur had said did not make him happy at all. It made him feel wary that there might be some traitors who thought better of Thranduil behind his back. He closed his eyes and counted to 10. Getting upset over such a small thing was not going to make it better.
"My Lord?" He opened his eyes to see Laurelin standing in front of him, looking stunningly beautiful. All bad feelings about his conversation with Isitur dissolved into the air. He smiled and bowed.
"My Lord, if it wouldn't be too much trouble, I would like to go to bed now, if that is okay with you," Laurelin said, her eyes twinkling.
"Fine by me. Go ahead upstairs and I'll tell my Father goodnight."
"Okay." Laurelin glided across the floor, her long white dress sweeping it in almost an elegant fashion. Legolas watched her go, and then went to tell his Father goodnight.
"Goodnight, Father. Pleasant dreams."
"You too my son," Thranduil said. "Enjoy yourself."
Legolas grinned. He bowed again and then went upstairs.
"I will Father, I will," he muttered softly.
****
Laurelin stood in Legolas's chambers, wringing her hands. The confidence she had in herself was now gone. The excitement she had felt before had been replaced by pure nervousness. She paced the room, trying to find something to do. She took off the crown she was wearing and placed it on his cabinet. She saw that her rose had been moved into Legolas's room, along with her vanity. Shocked, she wondered how it got there. Then she remembered that Saris had started to transfer all of her belongings into Legolas's chambers.
"That explains it," she thought. "This marriage is now completely official."
Sighing, she looked out the window. A full moon hung in the clouds, making the dark room appear mysteriously romantic.
"Great," she thought. "Now all I need is some candles and some fluffy pillows." She stopped pacing and rubbed her hands up and down her arms; it was getting cold. She closed the curtains to his balcony hastily and sat down in a chair. Instantly the aroma of his scent filled her nostrils. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes.
"I wonder if he is just as nervous," she thought. "Probably not. He might have even done this with someone before!" she said. As soon as the words left her lips, she regretted it. She knew he was not the type of guy to do that.
"But still, he has like 40 willing partners out of this whole kingdom! That is saying something."
A hard knock on the door caused her to jump in the chair.
"Yes?" she said, her voice quavering.
"It's just me."
"Totholain!" she cried with relief. She ran to the door and flung it open. "I am so glad you are here!"
The Elvish general raised his eyebrows suspiciously.
"Is there something wrong?"
"No, no, not at all! Why don't you come in?"
Totholain shook his head. "I'd better not. Legolas will be here soon, and I am sure he wouldn't want me here," he said jokingly with a smile. Laurelin gritted her teeth.
"Anyway, I wanted to apologize for not being at the party. Apparently there was an unrest in the stables, and I was summoned to check it out."
~ You are such a liar, Totholain. How can you continue to lie to her? That is not who you are ~
"That's fine, Totholain," Laurelin said, her heart sinking as she heard light footsteps down the hall. "I understand."
Totholain nodded and bowed to Legolas as he came up.
"I am sorry, my Lord, I was just leaving." He turned to Laurelin and gave her a hug.
"You'll be fine," he whispered in his ear. Laurelin bit back a cry as she watched him go. It took everything she had not to run after him and beg him to stay. "I'm so scared," she thought. "And there really is no reason to be."
Legolas stood staring at her. "When are you going to let me in?" he said with a laugh. Laurelin blushed and stepped aside.
"Sorry."
"It's okay. I know Totholain is a good-looking guy."
"What?! You think I like him?" Laurelin said, appalled. She loved Totholain, but not in the way Legolas was thinking. Totholain had always been a father to her, not a lover.
"No, no, it was a joke. As in ha ha, get it?" Legolas said as he shut the door.
"Ha." Laurelin said, her old fear conjuring up again. "Now what do I do?" she thought, feeling her heart rise in her throat. Fortunately for her, Legolas took the matter into his own hands. He stepped closer to her and stroked her cheek. She flinched. Legolas shrank back, his eyes showing the result of shock.
"I'll never make you do something you don't want to do,'' he said, his voice ringing like a melody in a sad song.
Laurelin nodded. "I know." The pain in his eyes was too much to bear. "We have come this far, I can't just abandon him now," she thought. "That would be most unfair to the both of us."
Legolas cocked his head to one side, trying to understand what was wrong. He gently lifted her chin and stared into her eyes. Laurelin blinked away the tears that had collected in her eyes and looked straight back at him. They stood in the moonlight, gazing at each other for the longest time until Legolas grabbed her gently and pulled her close.
"I love you,'' he said, his voice husky.
"I love you too," Laurelin said. She laid her head on his broad chest, feeling his heart beat against the tunic he was wearing.
He ran his fingers through her hair, and then kissed her neck. He went up along side her throat until he captured her lips. She wrapped her arms around his waist as he ran his hands along the small of her back. She shivered, but it wasn't because of the cold.
Legolas continued to kiss her passionately as he slowly moved her to the side of the bed. Laurelin felt him undo the straps to the wedding gown and let it drop to the floor. He gradually laid her on the bed; Laurelin relaxed as the soft feathers instantly enveloped her. She watched him remove his shirt, to reveal a lean but well-muscled body. He then took off his trousers and got into the bed. Laurelin noticed that he still had his father's crown on. She reached for it and removed it.
"You shouldn't still be wearing this," she said. She leaned across him and placed it on the nightstand. "What would your father think?"
Legolas grinned and then said softly, "That I am the luckiest Elf in the world." Laurelin propped her elbow up on his stomach so she could look at him.
"You really think so?" she said, a hint of disbelief in her voice.
Legolas chuckled. With one swift movement, he switched positions with her, so that now he was resting on her stomach. His hands traveled up the side of her and got entwined in her hair. He lowered his mouth and brushed his lips with her own. Laurelin closed her eyes, the delight coming at too low a price.
"More," she mumbled, not realizing she actually said it out loud. Laurelin moved her hands so they were behind his neck.
Legolas responded quickly to her request. She felt him thrusting up inside of her, and she bit her tongue to keep from crying out. It was pleasurable pain, but it was pain nonetheless. She dug her nails into his back, drawing blood. It was all she could do not to scream.
Legolas came up for breath and looked into her clear, blue eyes.
"Now do you believe me?" he said, a note of humor in his voice. "I only say what I mean, and mean what I say."
"I believe you," Laurelin breathed. She gasped for air; it seemed she could never get enough. Her chest heaved up and down with the rhythm of her heartbeat. Beads of sweat started to form around her scalp.
Legolas placed his hand on her heart and said, "You haven't forgotten the rose yet, have you?"
"Oh, no, of course not!" she said and glanced over towards her vanity. The rose was there, as always, but tonight it seemed to possess a bright, burning light. She watched in fascination as it started to glow.
"Wow."
"That rose has a bit of magic in it yet. You just never know when it may surprise you."
Laurelin took his hand and planted a delicate kiss on his palm.
"I have been surprised more than I reckoned for already," she said, feeling a sense of exhaustion engulf her.
"I've tired you out," Legolas said, his voice full of worry. "I'm sorry."
"Don't be. By all means, you can take me again."
"Are you sure?"
"I only say what I mean, and mean what I say," she said, letting his hand go.
Legolas smiled.
"Indeed I shall."
****
Laurelin awoke to chaos. Elves were running around frantically outside of the bedroom, and Legolas was up and dressed. He was grabbing his crown when Laurelin asked him,
"My Lord, where are you going?" Legolas stopped and looked at her.
"There seems to be a problem. Glorfindel of Rivendell arrived very early this morning, begging to speak to my father and me. I have been summoned at once." He placed his crown on his forehead.
"What's the big deal about Glorfindel? I have never heard of him." Legolas shook his head.
"He is the most powerful Elf-lord still living in Middle-earth, next to Elrond. To receive him here is a great honor; no matter what ill news he may bring. I am surprised, though, that he traveled alone."
Legolas nodded towards her clothes. "You may want to get dressed also. I believe everyone is going to be in my Father's palace to see what he wants." With that said, Legolas left, shutting the door behind him.
Laurelin tumbled out of bed, dreading that fact that everyone was up so early. She picked through her clothes that Legolas had brought her and decided on her favorite blue one. She put it on and didn't even bother to brush her hair; it was tangle-free.
Glancing around the room, she noticed that Legolas had hung up her dress. She smiled.
"He takes care of the tiniest little details," she thought. She took her crown and put it on her head. "It'll take a long time to get used to doing that every night," she told herself.
A loud yell from outside reminded her where she was going.
"Well, let's see what he has to say," she said. "I hope it isn't bad." She walked through the doorway and down the hall, dodging servants and maids.
"Gosh, he must be important," she thought as the King's butler ran by. "I can't wait to meet him."
**** "Come on," Retkia told Gabriel. "You take forever!" Gabriel grinned as he locked the door to their home.
"You never know when someone might want to break into your house and steal your possessions," he said, humor in his voice.
"Funny. You know that no one would ever do that. And it's not like there is anything valuable in there."
"Of course not. Because all I need is right here," he said as he leaned forward and gave her a kiss.
Retkia rolled her eyes. "Remind me again why I married you?"
"Cause I am so irresistible," he said as they made their way towards the palace.
"Right," she said, glancing towards the castle.
She was so excited. Retkia had never seen anyone from Rivendell, and the thought that someone as great as Glorfindel coming intrigued her. She quickened her pace, praying that they both would get a good seat.
"This should be interesting," she thought as she waved to Lizule, who was running by. "Very interesting."
Lizule didn't have time to return her friend's greeting. The King himself had instructed her that she would be the one giving Lord Glorfindel a tour of Mirkwood. She felt very honored; it was not every day that she picked out of a crowd to show someone around. Thranduil knew that she was extremely familiar with the layout of Mirkwood, and would be able to give Glorfindel the best visit possible.
Lizule felt much happier than she had been last night. It seemed that everyone but her had been in love with someone at the party, and it tore her to pieces. When Laurelin had shown no interest in the reception, it hurt her even more. She had gotten over her grief, even though it still tore at her heart every now and then.
"But, if I don't get there on time," she reprimanded herself, noticing that the palace courtyard was almost deserted, "then I may as well forget about giving anyone a tour. Thranduil will never offer the opportunity to me again."
****
Laurelin stood next to Legolas, watching all of the people coming in. She recognized Retkia and Gabriel out of the crowd, but she could not find Lizule. Thranduil was unusually quiet, sitting on his throne, apparently thinking. Totholain was standing off to the side, his face laden with sadness. Laurelin turned her head away. She did not want to know what was troubling him. Soon, everyone was seated, and the silence pierced the air. Laurelin wondered when this "Glorfindel" was going to show up.
As if on command, he stepped through the castle door. Muffled gasps were heard all around. Laurelin's mouth dropped. He was tall and elegant, his yellow hair gleaming like a pot of gold. He wore all white, and the sword at his side glimmered whenever he took a step. His face was ageless, but was set in an emotionless stare, intensifying his beauty. If Laurelin had not ever seen Legolas before him, she would have fainted. He strode forward, his stride bearing the confidence of an aged warrior, full of strength and poise. The appearance of him enchanted her.
"So this is what the Noldor Elves look like," she thought. Being a Silvan Elf, like Legolas, she had never seen the like of Glorfindel. Although he was extremely handsome, she knew that in her heart, she belonged to Legolas. No one, not even Glorfindel, could beat his magnificence.
He stopped at the bottom of Thranduil's throne, oblivious to the fact that all of the maidens were staring at him openly.
"Lord Elrond brings an urgent message," he said, his voice ringing like little silver bells. "There is trouble abroad in Rivendell."
Thranduil shifted in his chair; he knew that something like this would have happened sooner or later.
"I suspected that," he said. "We were going to start to prepare an army for safety purposes in our own kingdom, as my son and Totholian know, but this news you bring us is very urgent."
Laurelin looked at Legolas, shocked.
~ He knew that Thranduil was going to build an army? Why didn't he tell me? ~
"Indeed it is," Glorfindel said, his eyes grave. "I have come here to ask for your help in this soon-to-be war, in defense of Imladris."
Laurelin felt her heart drop to her toes.
"Please don't take Legolas," she thought. "Please don't take Legolas."
Thranduil nodded. "Of course I will help. But who or what is our enemy, my Lord?"
That was the first time Laurelin had ever heard Thranduil call someone else, "Lord."
~ Glorfindel must be pretty important. ~
Glorfindel shuddered. "I'd rather not speak of it, but I must tell you, or you will have no idea what we are up against." He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and opened them.
"There has been a group of Orcs seen on our borders. It did not concern us, since their numbers were so few and their weapons dull. But, when a scout noticed that they had a Balrog with them, well, it was quite a shock."
"A Balrog!" Thranduil exclaimed, his face turning pale. "I thought they were destroyed in the fall of Sauron."
"We all did. This one must have escaped and hidden out for two hundred years. The Orcs have made it their captain, out of fear, of course, and are preparing for attack. I was able to slip out to the east, but only barely. They are mustering more forces of Orcs that are wandering around aimlessly, and their army has grown big. A legion of 5,000, I dare say."
Thranduil groaned. "This is ill news indeed. I received the understanding that the War of the Ring's purpose was to drive out evil forever."
"Unfortunately, it got rid of Sauron but not his hate. It is still infested within the black hearts of the Orcs and the Balrog. One host of Elves cannot with hold so much hate. That is why I have been sent to get help from you, if you will lend it."
Thranduil nodded. "Of course I will. How many Elves do you need?"
"Two generals, and about 500 Elves for backup. Most of Rivendell is already preparing for war, so we do not need much. "
"How long will this affair last?"
"I'd say about a week, at the most. The thing I am most concerned about is destroying the Balrog. If we can kill it, the Orcs are defenseless. I hope that this battle will rid Middle-earth of this reckless hate."
Thranduil stood up, and turned to Totholain. "I am putting you in charge, along side Isitur, which is just how we planned. Do you have any objections?" Totholain shook his head. He wanted to do this. Laurelin breathed a sigh of relief. They weren't going to send Legolas.
"Good, I knew I could count on you. Glorfindel, when is the last possible day that we can depart from Mirkwood to help Imladris in time?"
"Two weeks."
"Hmmm. That'll have to do. I will start training our army immediately. I presume you will be staying to assist in the sword-fighting?"
"If Legolas will do the archery. He is the best of the best."
"I will teach to the highest of my ability," Legolas said, flustered by the compliment Glorfindel had given him.
"Excellent. We start tomorrow."
"Noro lim, Asfaloth! We have no time to lose!" Glorfindel shouted to the Elven horse. Like an arrow released from a bow Asfaloth sprung away, his hooves making sparks on the road. Glorfindel bent over low, urging the horse faster. Asfaloth responded with even more blinding speed.
"We must hurry!" he told the horse in Elvish. Glorfindel clung to the white horse's mane, his golden hair flying out behind him.
"We have to get to Mirkwood! Imladris's fate depends on it!" Glorfindel said anxiously. The mystical horse gave a loud battle cry, and bolted away from Rivendell's borders, nearly leaving Glorfindel behind.
****
Laurelin sighed impatiently while she tapped her fingers on the table next to her.
"This reception is taking much longer than I thought it would," she thought. Legolas was talking to Isitur over by the punch bowl, Retkia was dancing with Gabriel, Lizule was sitting in a corner pouting, Thranduil was talking to some of the guests, and Totholain was. she blinked twice when she realized he was not there.
"Where is Totholain?" she wondered, searching the crowd for his handsome face.
"It isn't like him not to be here. I know he isn't the biggest fan of parties, but he would never just not show up."
She shrugged and took a sip out of the glass she was holding to act like she was having fun. Flinging her hair over her shoulder, she took to daydreaming to keep herself occupied until Legolas was ready to go upstairs and go to sleep.
"Not that he will be getting any sleep," she thought. "I won't either."
Lizule, who was sitting across the room, noticed her friend looked a bit bored with the celebration.
"I wonder what is wrong," she thought. "She just married the most gorgeous Prince in the world, and she can't even be a tad excited?"
Lizule inhaled a deep whiff of air and stood up. Placing her goblet of red wine on a counter, she went over to Laurelin and bid her goodnight. Laurelin gave a nod of recognition and continued on with her thoughts. Lizule shook her head slowly and left the palace halls. Moonlight shone through the windows and cast shadowy reflections across the walls of the palace. She walked quickly, not totally trusting the security of the palace gates. A moan from the wind caused her to jump.
"Come on, grow up," she told herself. "You are acting like a child." She proceeded to her chambers and locked the door. Casting herself on her bed, she buried her face in its soft satin sheets and burst into tears.
****
Legolas nodded, pretending to understand what Isitur was talking about.
"Yes, of course," he said, not even knowing what the comment was. He glanced over at Laurelin, who seemed to be having a very dull time at the moment. He knew how she felt; he felt the same way.
"Why won't this thing be over? I hope Father dismisses the crowd soon," he thought. Isitur kept rambling on, oblivious to the fact that Legolas was not paying attention at all.
"By the Valar, will he ever just be quiet?" Legolas thought. "He sure can talk when you get him started. Poor Totholain. He hardly talks, and this guy talks all the time. They must make each other miserable."
"My Lord?" Legolas snapped out of his thoughts to see Isitur staring at him, obviously expecting an answer to his statement.
"Um, I'm sorry, what was the question again?"
"Do you think that we need to improve the security of the palace since all of this new talk of Orcs and such?" Isitur said, not annoyed at all.
"I actually believe the palace is quite safe. It has magic surrounding it that only a host of Elves could break through."
"You do have a point my Lord. Unfortunately, there are some who think differently."
"Like who?" Legolas demanded, suddenly interested in the conversation.
Isitur shifted uncomfortably. "Well, like."
Isitur was saved from having to explain who it was. Thranduil stepped into the middle of the ballroom and said,
"Lords and Ladies, it is past 1 o clock, and I believe some of the Elflings need their sleep. So if you can just wrap things up and go back home, that would be great."
Isitur, seeing his opportunity, bolted away from Legolas and melted into the crowd.
Legolas growled. What Isitur had said did not make him happy at all. It made him feel wary that there might be some traitors who thought better of Thranduil behind his back. He closed his eyes and counted to 10. Getting upset over such a small thing was not going to make it better.
"My Lord?" He opened his eyes to see Laurelin standing in front of him, looking stunningly beautiful. All bad feelings about his conversation with Isitur dissolved into the air. He smiled and bowed.
"My Lord, if it wouldn't be too much trouble, I would like to go to bed now, if that is okay with you," Laurelin said, her eyes twinkling.
"Fine by me. Go ahead upstairs and I'll tell my Father goodnight."
"Okay." Laurelin glided across the floor, her long white dress sweeping it in almost an elegant fashion. Legolas watched her go, and then went to tell his Father goodnight.
"Goodnight, Father. Pleasant dreams."
"You too my son," Thranduil said. "Enjoy yourself."
Legolas grinned. He bowed again and then went upstairs.
"I will Father, I will," he muttered softly.
****
Laurelin stood in Legolas's chambers, wringing her hands. The confidence she had in herself was now gone. The excitement she had felt before had been replaced by pure nervousness. She paced the room, trying to find something to do. She took off the crown she was wearing and placed it on his cabinet. She saw that her rose had been moved into Legolas's room, along with her vanity. Shocked, she wondered how it got there. Then she remembered that Saris had started to transfer all of her belongings into Legolas's chambers.
"That explains it," she thought. "This marriage is now completely official."
Sighing, she looked out the window. A full moon hung in the clouds, making the dark room appear mysteriously romantic.
"Great," she thought. "Now all I need is some candles and some fluffy pillows." She stopped pacing and rubbed her hands up and down her arms; it was getting cold. She closed the curtains to his balcony hastily and sat down in a chair. Instantly the aroma of his scent filled her nostrils. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes.
"I wonder if he is just as nervous," she thought. "Probably not. He might have even done this with someone before!" she said. As soon as the words left her lips, she regretted it. She knew he was not the type of guy to do that.
"But still, he has like 40 willing partners out of this whole kingdom! That is saying something."
A hard knock on the door caused her to jump in the chair.
"Yes?" she said, her voice quavering.
"It's just me."
"Totholain!" she cried with relief. She ran to the door and flung it open. "I am so glad you are here!"
The Elvish general raised his eyebrows suspiciously.
"Is there something wrong?"
"No, no, not at all! Why don't you come in?"
Totholain shook his head. "I'd better not. Legolas will be here soon, and I am sure he wouldn't want me here," he said jokingly with a smile. Laurelin gritted her teeth.
"Anyway, I wanted to apologize for not being at the party. Apparently there was an unrest in the stables, and I was summoned to check it out."
~ You are such a liar, Totholain. How can you continue to lie to her? That is not who you are ~
"That's fine, Totholain," Laurelin said, her heart sinking as she heard light footsteps down the hall. "I understand."
Totholain nodded and bowed to Legolas as he came up.
"I am sorry, my Lord, I was just leaving." He turned to Laurelin and gave her a hug.
"You'll be fine," he whispered in his ear. Laurelin bit back a cry as she watched him go. It took everything she had not to run after him and beg him to stay. "I'm so scared," she thought. "And there really is no reason to be."
Legolas stood staring at her. "When are you going to let me in?" he said with a laugh. Laurelin blushed and stepped aside.
"Sorry."
"It's okay. I know Totholain is a good-looking guy."
"What?! You think I like him?" Laurelin said, appalled. She loved Totholain, but not in the way Legolas was thinking. Totholain had always been a father to her, not a lover.
"No, no, it was a joke. As in ha ha, get it?" Legolas said as he shut the door.
"Ha." Laurelin said, her old fear conjuring up again. "Now what do I do?" she thought, feeling her heart rise in her throat. Fortunately for her, Legolas took the matter into his own hands. He stepped closer to her and stroked her cheek. She flinched. Legolas shrank back, his eyes showing the result of shock.
"I'll never make you do something you don't want to do,'' he said, his voice ringing like a melody in a sad song.
Laurelin nodded. "I know." The pain in his eyes was too much to bear. "We have come this far, I can't just abandon him now," she thought. "That would be most unfair to the both of us."
Legolas cocked his head to one side, trying to understand what was wrong. He gently lifted her chin and stared into her eyes. Laurelin blinked away the tears that had collected in her eyes and looked straight back at him. They stood in the moonlight, gazing at each other for the longest time until Legolas grabbed her gently and pulled her close.
"I love you,'' he said, his voice husky.
"I love you too," Laurelin said. She laid her head on his broad chest, feeling his heart beat against the tunic he was wearing.
He ran his fingers through her hair, and then kissed her neck. He went up along side her throat until he captured her lips. She wrapped her arms around his waist as he ran his hands along the small of her back. She shivered, but it wasn't because of the cold.
Legolas continued to kiss her passionately as he slowly moved her to the side of the bed. Laurelin felt him undo the straps to the wedding gown and let it drop to the floor. He gradually laid her on the bed; Laurelin relaxed as the soft feathers instantly enveloped her. She watched him remove his shirt, to reveal a lean but well-muscled body. He then took off his trousers and got into the bed. Laurelin noticed that he still had his father's crown on. She reached for it and removed it.
"You shouldn't still be wearing this," she said. She leaned across him and placed it on the nightstand. "What would your father think?"
Legolas grinned and then said softly, "That I am the luckiest Elf in the world." Laurelin propped her elbow up on his stomach so she could look at him.
"You really think so?" she said, a hint of disbelief in her voice.
Legolas chuckled. With one swift movement, he switched positions with her, so that now he was resting on her stomach. His hands traveled up the side of her and got entwined in her hair. He lowered his mouth and brushed his lips with her own. Laurelin closed her eyes, the delight coming at too low a price.
"More," she mumbled, not realizing she actually said it out loud. Laurelin moved her hands so they were behind his neck.
Legolas responded quickly to her request. She felt him thrusting up inside of her, and she bit her tongue to keep from crying out. It was pleasurable pain, but it was pain nonetheless. She dug her nails into his back, drawing blood. It was all she could do not to scream.
Legolas came up for breath and looked into her clear, blue eyes.
"Now do you believe me?" he said, a note of humor in his voice. "I only say what I mean, and mean what I say."
"I believe you," Laurelin breathed. She gasped for air; it seemed she could never get enough. Her chest heaved up and down with the rhythm of her heartbeat. Beads of sweat started to form around her scalp.
Legolas placed his hand on her heart and said, "You haven't forgotten the rose yet, have you?"
"Oh, no, of course not!" she said and glanced over towards her vanity. The rose was there, as always, but tonight it seemed to possess a bright, burning light. She watched in fascination as it started to glow.
"Wow."
"That rose has a bit of magic in it yet. You just never know when it may surprise you."
Laurelin took his hand and planted a delicate kiss on his palm.
"I have been surprised more than I reckoned for already," she said, feeling a sense of exhaustion engulf her.
"I've tired you out," Legolas said, his voice full of worry. "I'm sorry."
"Don't be. By all means, you can take me again."
"Are you sure?"
"I only say what I mean, and mean what I say," she said, letting his hand go.
Legolas smiled.
"Indeed I shall."
****
Laurelin awoke to chaos. Elves were running around frantically outside of the bedroom, and Legolas was up and dressed. He was grabbing his crown when Laurelin asked him,
"My Lord, where are you going?" Legolas stopped and looked at her.
"There seems to be a problem. Glorfindel of Rivendell arrived very early this morning, begging to speak to my father and me. I have been summoned at once." He placed his crown on his forehead.
"What's the big deal about Glorfindel? I have never heard of him." Legolas shook his head.
"He is the most powerful Elf-lord still living in Middle-earth, next to Elrond. To receive him here is a great honor; no matter what ill news he may bring. I am surprised, though, that he traveled alone."
Legolas nodded towards her clothes. "You may want to get dressed also. I believe everyone is going to be in my Father's palace to see what he wants." With that said, Legolas left, shutting the door behind him.
Laurelin tumbled out of bed, dreading that fact that everyone was up so early. She picked through her clothes that Legolas had brought her and decided on her favorite blue one. She put it on and didn't even bother to brush her hair; it was tangle-free.
Glancing around the room, she noticed that Legolas had hung up her dress. She smiled.
"He takes care of the tiniest little details," she thought. She took her crown and put it on her head. "It'll take a long time to get used to doing that every night," she told herself.
A loud yell from outside reminded her where she was going.
"Well, let's see what he has to say," she said. "I hope it isn't bad." She walked through the doorway and down the hall, dodging servants and maids.
"Gosh, he must be important," she thought as the King's butler ran by. "I can't wait to meet him."
**** "Come on," Retkia told Gabriel. "You take forever!" Gabriel grinned as he locked the door to their home.
"You never know when someone might want to break into your house and steal your possessions," he said, humor in his voice.
"Funny. You know that no one would ever do that. And it's not like there is anything valuable in there."
"Of course not. Because all I need is right here," he said as he leaned forward and gave her a kiss.
Retkia rolled her eyes. "Remind me again why I married you?"
"Cause I am so irresistible," he said as they made their way towards the palace.
"Right," she said, glancing towards the castle.
She was so excited. Retkia had never seen anyone from Rivendell, and the thought that someone as great as Glorfindel coming intrigued her. She quickened her pace, praying that they both would get a good seat.
"This should be interesting," she thought as she waved to Lizule, who was running by. "Very interesting."
Lizule didn't have time to return her friend's greeting. The King himself had instructed her that she would be the one giving Lord Glorfindel a tour of Mirkwood. She felt very honored; it was not every day that she picked out of a crowd to show someone around. Thranduil knew that she was extremely familiar with the layout of Mirkwood, and would be able to give Glorfindel the best visit possible.
Lizule felt much happier than she had been last night. It seemed that everyone but her had been in love with someone at the party, and it tore her to pieces. When Laurelin had shown no interest in the reception, it hurt her even more. She had gotten over her grief, even though it still tore at her heart every now and then.
"But, if I don't get there on time," she reprimanded herself, noticing that the palace courtyard was almost deserted, "then I may as well forget about giving anyone a tour. Thranduil will never offer the opportunity to me again."
****
Laurelin stood next to Legolas, watching all of the people coming in. She recognized Retkia and Gabriel out of the crowd, but she could not find Lizule. Thranduil was unusually quiet, sitting on his throne, apparently thinking. Totholain was standing off to the side, his face laden with sadness. Laurelin turned her head away. She did not want to know what was troubling him. Soon, everyone was seated, and the silence pierced the air. Laurelin wondered when this "Glorfindel" was going to show up.
As if on command, he stepped through the castle door. Muffled gasps were heard all around. Laurelin's mouth dropped. He was tall and elegant, his yellow hair gleaming like a pot of gold. He wore all white, and the sword at his side glimmered whenever he took a step. His face was ageless, but was set in an emotionless stare, intensifying his beauty. If Laurelin had not ever seen Legolas before him, she would have fainted. He strode forward, his stride bearing the confidence of an aged warrior, full of strength and poise. The appearance of him enchanted her.
"So this is what the Noldor Elves look like," she thought. Being a Silvan Elf, like Legolas, she had never seen the like of Glorfindel. Although he was extremely handsome, she knew that in her heart, she belonged to Legolas. No one, not even Glorfindel, could beat his magnificence.
He stopped at the bottom of Thranduil's throne, oblivious to the fact that all of the maidens were staring at him openly.
"Lord Elrond brings an urgent message," he said, his voice ringing like little silver bells. "There is trouble abroad in Rivendell."
Thranduil shifted in his chair; he knew that something like this would have happened sooner or later.
"I suspected that," he said. "We were going to start to prepare an army for safety purposes in our own kingdom, as my son and Totholian know, but this news you bring us is very urgent."
Laurelin looked at Legolas, shocked.
~ He knew that Thranduil was going to build an army? Why didn't he tell me? ~
"Indeed it is," Glorfindel said, his eyes grave. "I have come here to ask for your help in this soon-to-be war, in defense of Imladris."
Laurelin felt her heart drop to her toes.
"Please don't take Legolas," she thought. "Please don't take Legolas."
Thranduil nodded. "Of course I will help. But who or what is our enemy, my Lord?"
That was the first time Laurelin had ever heard Thranduil call someone else, "Lord."
~ Glorfindel must be pretty important. ~
Glorfindel shuddered. "I'd rather not speak of it, but I must tell you, or you will have no idea what we are up against." He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and opened them.
"There has been a group of Orcs seen on our borders. It did not concern us, since their numbers were so few and their weapons dull. But, when a scout noticed that they had a Balrog with them, well, it was quite a shock."
"A Balrog!" Thranduil exclaimed, his face turning pale. "I thought they were destroyed in the fall of Sauron."
"We all did. This one must have escaped and hidden out for two hundred years. The Orcs have made it their captain, out of fear, of course, and are preparing for attack. I was able to slip out to the east, but only barely. They are mustering more forces of Orcs that are wandering around aimlessly, and their army has grown big. A legion of 5,000, I dare say."
Thranduil groaned. "This is ill news indeed. I received the understanding that the War of the Ring's purpose was to drive out evil forever."
"Unfortunately, it got rid of Sauron but not his hate. It is still infested within the black hearts of the Orcs and the Balrog. One host of Elves cannot with hold so much hate. That is why I have been sent to get help from you, if you will lend it."
Thranduil nodded. "Of course I will. How many Elves do you need?"
"Two generals, and about 500 Elves for backup. Most of Rivendell is already preparing for war, so we do not need much. "
"How long will this affair last?"
"I'd say about a week, at the most. The thing I am most concerned about is destroying the Balrog. If we can kill it, the Orcs are defenseless. I hope that this battle will rid Middle-earth of this reckless hate."
Thranduil stood up, and turned to Totholain. "I am putting you in charge, along side Isitur, which is just how we planned. Do you have any objections?" Totholain shook his head. He wanted to do this. Laurelin breathed a sigh of relief. They weren't going to send Legolas.
"Good, I knew I could count on you. Glorfindel, when is the last possible day that we can depart from Mirkwood to help Imladris in time?"
"Two weeks."
"Hmmm. That'll have to do. I will start training our army immediately. I presume you will be staying to assist in the sword-fighting?"
"If Legolas will do the archery. He is the best of the best."
"I will teach to the highest of my ability," Legolas said, flustered by the compliment Glorfindel had given him.
"Excellent. We start tomorrow."