Ever After – Epilogue

Legolas stood quietly by the fountain as all the people around him celebrated his return. There were simply too many people for him to feel comfortable and so he had retreated to a quieter spot. He had finally managed to slip away from his father; Thranduil had not let him out of his sight since arriving in Gondor. He loved his father deeply and was delighted to have him here, but he had begun to feel like he had an extra shadow. Soon though, he would seek him out again. The Elvenking had been through much following his son's death; Legolas had no wish to worry his father.

He took a long breath of air. It was still novel to breathe, to touch and connect with the world again. All the things he had previously taken for granted were special now, things to be cherished. The scent of the trees was richer, the song of the birds sweeter than before.

He still found it hard to believe that it had taken Elbereth, Namo and Ilúvatar themselves to save his soul. He remembered the shock he'd had when he'd been pulled back, to find himself standing before the three Valar. By rights, he should have been lost forever. However, the Valar had refused to take all the credit, praising his strong soul. Legolas blushed at the memory, for no compliment was higher than one given by the creator of all things. Yet greater than the compliment was their gift, their reward to him for all that he was willing to sacrifice. It filled him with joy untold to walk Middle-Earth once more.

Looking around, he smiled as he saw several familiar faces. Glorfindel stood talking with Gimli; from the looks of it, they were discussing the merits of dwarven ale versus those of elven wine. Legolas was sure it would eventually come down to who had the worse hangover in the morning.

A little further away, two grey-clad elves were also locked in deep conversation. Rúmil and Orophin had been delighted to learn of their brother's release to Valinor and Legolas suspected that they would not grace Arda for much longer.

He paused in his observations for a moment, thinking of Valinor. His sea longing had returned with his body, but it no longer bothered him as it once did. For now he was more than content to remain here, when the time was right, he would sail. Still, he decided to ask Rúmil and Orophin to take a letter to his mother.

Returning his attention to those around him, he saw the twins sitting with Arwen. They appeared to be teasing her, for she blushed frequently. Though she would never see again, her life would still be full and happy. He was glad Elrond and his sons had been able to return for the celebrations.

His eyes sparkled as he took in all these things and he released a deep sigh of sheer contentment. He turned slightly as he noticed a movement at his side. Aragorn, seeing his friend standing alone, had left his father and was walking over. The prince greeted his friend with a smile and a nod of his head as Aragorn stood beside him.

"They are overjoyed to have you back." He said softly. "As am I." He paused and looked at Legolas, struggling to contain his emotion. "You are my dearest friend, I missed you so much when you were gone."

Legolas wrapped his arm round Aragorn's shoulders, shaking his head. "Oh, Estel, don't you know?" He asked. Aragorn started at him in confusion. "Know what?" Legolas smiled. "I've always been by your side and I always will be. Today, tomorrow – and ever after."

THE END!!!

It's done! Yay! Thank you SO much to everyone who reviewed, it really kept me going!

Many hugs!

Tux

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Coming soon:

Changing the Stars A terrible accident threatens to separate the twins forever. But not even fate can stand between the bonds of brotherhood and they are determined to be reunited – even if they have to change the stars to ensure it.