Chapter 20 – Sleepers Awake
Author's Note – The title is thanks to JastaElf. :)
Meanwhile in Mirkwood
Brethil started about him in wonder and amazement as torchlight flickered on the gleaming points, edges, and the highly polished hafts of the weapons arrayed on the walls about them: long swords taller than he was, short swords, daggers, pikes, spears, halberds, long wicked looking arrows, and several things he had no name for. Each was polished, glinting, and battle-ready, as if merely waiting for the warriors to rush in and carry them forth, brandishing them bravely against any enemy.
"Legolas," he breathed, his eyes moving slowly, almost reluctantly to his companion, who was grimly studying the weapons on the wall before him. In one wall's center was a very long, very beautiful and very scary-looking spear, its point shining as though it were made of diamonds rather than pale silver. Elegant argent letters curved from the blade up the dark handle, entwined with a leafy vine. "'The hand that wields me will always conquer,'" Brethil read slowly, eyes widening as he gazed in admiration at that magnificent weapon. "Whose was that?" he asked quietly, noticing that Legolas was studying it as well.
"My daeradar's," he answered. "Oropher Gaelthelaion," he finished in a hushed, awed voice.
Brethil's mouth sagged open and he stared at it anew, even more impressed than he had been. Dragon-Gutter - the Great Oropher's spear....
Legolas gazed steadily at it, knowing that it was the one he had to have. What other weapon would suffice against a Balrog? He knew that he was not supposed to touch his daeradar's spear, but it was the most wondrous weapon in this room and said to contain a magic of its own. And he needed all the help he could get!
"Choose a weapon well, Brethil," he said in a low, earnest voice, his face filled with determination.
"Me?!" Brethil squeaked, his eyes wide. But he swallowed back his fear and gazed once more at the weapons. There were just so many of them, all gleaming and murmuring to him about how wonderful they were and they longed for him to take them forth into battle once more. But the one that seemed to speak the loudest in his heart was a spear, not nearly as magnificent as Dragon-Gutter, but shorter, the shaft narrower, and the point of silver bearing cryptic marks, not the Feanorian letters or the Runes crafted by Daeron, but something that looked like they should say something.
He glanced over at Legolas, and then took the spear from its place of honor on the wall. He was about to turn away, when he looked back. Another weapon seemed to beckon to him. It was a bow, something that he was much better at handling than a spear, a bit long for him, but he thought he could manage. He took it as well, thought Legolas gazed over at him with a frown. Brethil shrugged, and took up a quiver bearing blue- fletched arrows.
"I am ready," he said, watching as Legolas reverently lowered Oropher's grand spear, holding it in his hands, eyes shining with admiration.
The young prince nodded, wishing that Tavor were with them. Not that he blamed their friend for not wanting to become involved in this. It was his daerna-araamil, after all. He drew a deep steadying breath wondering if they should loot the armory for some pieces of armor, but decided that it would make no difference. Balrog fire would eat right through it.
No! he told himself sternly, trying to imagine that he were his towering daeradar, who was afraid of nothing and no one – not even a fearsome Balrog that looked like a Noldorin lady most of the time.
"Let's go, Brethil," he said in a low, determined voice. "She is waiting."
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"Good morning, sweet prince!" two voices called in harmony as Aralith focused on the ceiling overhead, then immediately shut his eyes.
Not the twins! he thought in exasperation. Not the twins!! There were no two voices quite so annoying as those of the Elrondions' and -what were they doing in Mirkwood?!
Forcing his face to impassivity, he drew a deep breath, telling himself that he had to be polite, he was Thranduil's son and Oropher's grandson, after all, and they were obviously guests, though he could not recall that they were coming for a visit.
Little Greenleaf is supposed to be picking Elrond's present....Maybe they have come to fetch it in person.
Slowly, and most hesitantly, he opened his eyes once more. They were seated on the foot of his bed, dressed exactly alike, hair fixed in exactly the same style and draped over their shoulders so they looked like perfect mirror images of one another.
They smiled down at him, and then pressed their hands to their hearts, tilting their heads just so.
"You look so very sweet this morning, Aralith," one of the said: Elladan maybe...or Elrohir....
"We hated to awaken you, but you have deprived us of your delightful company for far too long!"
"Why look, El! His eyes are nearly the same color as his crown!"
"Why, brother! You are right! What lovely eyes you have, dear Enedbal. Has anyone told you that before?"
"If not, they have been very remiss."
"What color are Bastryn's eyes, El? I do not recall?"
"It would be so delicious if his eyes were that same gorgeous blue- violet as well, yes. But I do not think they are. Do you remember what color his eyes are, Enedbal?"
Aralith frowned at them, thinking them as maddening as ever.
"Why are you calling me 'Periwinkle'?" he demanded, starting to move into a sitting position. But the twins moved to push him back onto the pillows.
"Because of your lovely crown, silly," they answered in their strange harmony.
"Lie still or you will awaken him."
Aralith's fingers brushed his hair and he felt the small floral crown that graced his golden locks. He then glared back at the twins, who were smiling so innocently.
"A fitting crown, don't you think, Enedbal? Being a Wood-elf and all, we know you like to wear pretty flowers in your hair. We wanted you to feel at home while you are here."
"Bastryn looks very sweet as well. Poor sleepy spider."
It was then that Aralith became aware of the weigh against his thigh, beneath the light cover. What was going on? And just who was this Bastryn they kept talking about! Had they said...'spider'!!?? He swallowed hard, in a throat suddenly gone dry. No, there was not a spider beneath the covers ... there was not! There was no spider nestled against his leg...no! Please, Elbereth! No! And what did they mean 'while you are here'?
Suddenly, he realized that he was not in his room at Gladaran Thamas. The walls were not painted in the graduating shades of lavender and blue like the evening sky. No curtains strung with brass bells fluttered in the open windows. Where was he?!
He did sit up then, an odd feeling that something was not right assaulting him.
Then he heard the slight mewling noise beside him and he glanced down, hand hovering over the pale covers. He quickly thrust them back.
Nestled beside him was a baby spider, blinking its too many eyes sleepily.
"Naneth Lhing?" it squeaked, gazing up at him.
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Thranduil, King of Mirkwood, sighed and stared at the ceiling. Sunlight danced off its carved surface and the sound of birdsong drifted in at the window. Ah, yes! It was going to be a beautiful day! He smiled and stretched languorously.
"Ah... good morning, aran-hir," a voice said close at hand, causing Thranduil to frown and turn toward it. He sighed, this time in exasperation, and scowled.
"Why are you in my room, Tanglinna?" he asked, sitting up abruptly and staring at the Silvan, who pushed up from the chair where he had been sitting.
"That is a good question," the archer answered evasively with a tight smile. "How –how are you feeling?"
One dark golden brow arched suspiciously.
"I am quite well. Why are you enquiring?"
"I am ... merely concerned for ... your well-being, hir-nin."
"My well-being? I see .... What has happened now? Did Little Greenleaf chose something that I will not be happy about sending to Imladris? Is that what this is about?"
Tanglinna grimaced slightly and shrugged.
"You could say that, hir-nin." If only you knew, he thought wryly and managed a slight smile. "Um, shall I...." He sighed, gazing at his blue monarch. Should he tell him now, or let Thranduil discover the truth when he first looked into a mirror? Or was it possible to make him avoid glancing into the chill, oh-so-honest glass? "There is ... that is, there are ... a few ... things that you should know about before ... before you get up."
"He is not sending that spider, is he? Not that it would not be amusing," Thranduil said with a grin and threw back the coverlet and stood.
"Well, yes....He is, um that is he did send the spider...."
"He did? Marvelous! But when was this? This morning?"
"Honesty is best...yes, it is," the archer murmured with renewed determination.
"What are you mumbling about?" Thranduil asked as he moved across the room, then he suddenly halted, gazing about him. "This is not my room," he began slowly. "Where am I?" He turned slowly to look at Tanglinna, who smiled weakly.
"Imladris, hir-nin," he answered.
Thranduil said nothing. There was no indignant outburst, no demand to know why he was in Imladris or how had he gotten here, only cold silence as he stared over at Tanglinna. Slowly, the king advanced back across the room, coming to stand so close to Tanglinna that their noses were nearly touching.
The Silvan smiled slightly, easing back a few steps and crossing his arms over his chest and attempting to look inscrutable, but fearing he was failing miserably when those too blue eyes glared at him in that too blue face. Suddenly, he felt a most mutinous bubble of laughter building in his chest. Really, Thranduil did look too ridiculous!
"Are you going to tell me what sort of joke this is?" the king demanded in a very low, very controlled voice.
Struggling to keep his mirth in check, Tanglinna cleared his throat, straightening to his full height, still a few inches shorter than the king unfortunately.
"It is no joke, hir-nin. Though it is indeed worthy of Little Greenleaf," he choked out. He turned his head away, hoping to hide the laughter that trickled forth in a cough, but Thranduil reached out and grabbed his face with one strong hand and forced the archer to meet his gaze.
"What is this all about? What -!" Thranduil's eyes lit on his hand, which tightened on Tanglinna's jaw. There was something very wrong.... Such an elegant long fingered thing his hand was, only...his fingers, hand, wrist...they were all...blue...? His eyes widened as he continued to stare at his hand. "What....What is this?" he said in a voice that would have frightened Morgoth Bauglir himself.
Tanglinna did step back then, drawing a deep steadying breath.
"That ... is a rather long story, hir-nin. If you will just sit down, I will be glad to - "
But Thranduil was no longer looking at him. He turned, moving swiftly across the room and yanking the cloth that had been placed over the mirror not long before, and sweeping it aside. He leaned forward, staring at his reflection, a look of disbelief on his gloriously handsome face.
He glared at the reflection, studying every inch of skin he could see. Then he noted the lovely green in his hair. Green and blue...usually such lovely colors....
Tanglinna was holding his breath, wondering if he could hobble to the door in time, but it was too late. Thranduil's face had turned a lovely shade of...purple....
Yes, blue and red do make purple, after all, Tanglinna thought with a frown before covering his ears with his hands.
"LITTLE GREENLEAF!!!!!!!!"
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"Where is she?! I must stop that poor child from being slaughtered! Where is she!? Erestor! Erestor!"
Elrond's chief counselor paused, turning at the sound of Glorfindel's rather frantic cry. The elf-lord was still dressed in his nightshirt, the one Erestor had put on him after they had found Glorfindel, Haldir, and Prince Aralith caught in an unnatural sleep in one of the greenhouses. His feet were bare and his hair was in golden disarray, most unusual for someone as fastidious as Glorfindel was.
"You are awake!" Erestor said happily. "Marvelous! I was beginning to wonder if -"
"Where is she? Erestor, you must help me find her before it is too late!"
"Who?"
"The child, the tiny girl with a golden braid. She was dressed in armor and carrying a sword! Oh, Erestor, we must stop her immediately!"
Erestor gazed at him, feeling most puzzled and alarmed. Was this some sort of bizarre side effect of that water from Mirkwood that they knew nothing about, some sort of delusion of very some sort?
"She was going to slay an evil lady Balrog! She said so! We must stop her!"
Hoping his distress was not too obvious, Erestor lay one gentle hand on his friend's arm.
"There is no child here like that, Glorfindel," he said in a soothing voice. "It was...a dream. That is all - mere ephemeral fancy. You have been asleep for some time now, you know."
"Nay! This was no dream! Do I not know the difference between dreams and reality? They were sending a mere child to confront a Balrog! Have they gone mad?! We must help her!"
Before Erestor could stop Glorfindel and talk some sense into him, or at least call for help, the elf-lord pulled away from him, running down the hall, his nightshirt flying about his knees.
Toward the armory is my guess, Erestor thought helplessly.
"But you don't know where she is!" he called after the departing figure, shaking his dark head and sighing.
Would all the Sleepers be this addled when they awoke? Perhaps he should be checking on the lord and lady. Maybe they could explain things to him.
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"Celeborn...."
"Yes, my dearest life?"
"Something is not...as it should be."
"What is that, my light?"
Galadriel turned to regard her husband, studying his well-known, beloved face.
"I am not certain. Something has...transpired, and yet it remains hidden from me."
Celeborn smiled down at her, taking one long, delicate fingered hand in his own and gently stroking it.
"It is nothing you need concern yourself with now, fairest luminescence," he said in a low, soothing voice while inwardly exulting at the most rare and glorious feeling of knowing something she did not...even if only for a short time.
"You must tell me, Celeborn," she insisted, her luminous eyes locking with his.
How very odd, he thought. I feel no compulsion whatsoever to obey her. Not even a twinge!
"It will sort itself out in time," he told her, bending to kiss her fair brow. "How are you feeling, my blossom?"
Galadriel continued to stare at him, feathery brows knit in concentration.
"I hope you are feeling quite well," her husband continued, watching her delightful facial contortions as she bent her will against his and ... lost. "Imladris in spring is quite marvelous, and not something to be missed by lying abed all day. Not that lying abed with you isn't marvelous, golden minx" he said with a smile.
Finally, her face smoothed to its normal marble-like, dispassionate appearance, but Celeborn could see she was struggling with something else now.
"Imladris," she murmured, trying to still her mind, which threatened to fall into chaos once more. She drew several deep, calming breaths. "Imladris," she whispered.
"We are here for Elrond's celebration, my glorious sunlight" Celeborn encouraged, wondering how much of her memory had been washed away by that enchanted water from Mirkwood.
"It is not time for that...." She hesitated, the strange flitting dreams that had haunted her sleep returning. "My dreams have been troubled of late," she admitted. "I have seen things...felt things...."
"Yes, dear heart. That will pass away as a mist before the sun of your will. Do not worry. These feelings are only temporary...or so I have been informed."
"Informed by whom?"
"All will be told in time, sweetest flower. But I believe you should –"
Suddenly her face crumbled and she grasped Celeborn's hand in a vise- like grip as she stared at him, her eyes filled with utter distress.
"Why can I not feel them?" she asked in a childlike voice of despair. "Why can I not feel my little Galadrim?"
Celeborn's dark brows knit. This was an unexpected development, and yet....Yes, that might explain things.
"I am not certain, beloved dove. That too will pass away." I believe it will pass away. Though would it be a bad thing if it did not?
"Who is here?" she asked, pushing to a sitting position, her hair wild about her face and shoulders, untamed and unrestrained. Celeborn thought she looked magnificent for all her fear. "Who came with us to Imladris?"
As Celeborn began to name their escorts, wondering why she had this sudden urge to know – and marveling a bit that she could not 'see' who had come with them, a gleam filled her eyes as she gazed at him with faint hope.
"Haldir is here," she breathed, clutching his name to her like a child with a favorite toy. "Bring him to me."
Her calmness seemed to return at the though of the march-warden, and Celeborn kissed her hands, rising gracefully from her side.
"It shall be done, radiant star" he promised and moved toward the door.
"It is about to start," he murmured gleefully. And grinning quite happily over this development, and the fact that he did not have to think of any more terms of endearment to call her - as the reserves were nearly dry - he stepped into the hall.
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Haldir was standing on a balcony that overlooked the distant waterfall, his silvery eyes distant yet filled with a light that had not been seen in a very long time. It had taken him some time to emerge from hiding -no, not hiding - he had been merely...taking his time that was all. Yet he had feared that if he stepped from his room, She would find him and he would be lost once more to Her golden glow and Her siren's voice in his head. He had debated with himself for some time on whether it was merely the room that shielded him from Her or if it were some other mysterious force he knew nothing about. It was not his room, not his talan that he was ensconced in. No, this was a strange room, not readily recognizable. Where was he? When this burning question grew to great for him and he needed answers before She came looking for him, he left the comfort of his bed and slowly approached the open doorway, cautiously peering about the corner.
Why, I am in Imladris! he thought in amazement, for his room afforded him a lovely view of the waterfall and the valley beyond. I wonder why I am here? Did She send me? Or did my lord? Perhaps he wished to free me from Her for my long years of faithful service....
While he stood pondering this new mystery, he saw Glorfindel approaching, a very determined look on his face. Haldir blinked a few times, as the elf-lord came to stand before him. He was dressed very strangely in what appeared to be a nightshirt. Haldir was still in his nightshirt, but he was not dressed in any inappropriate armor. Was Glorfindel having some sort of wardrobe crisis? For a breastplate of gold engraved with a rayed sun adorned Glorfindel's chest, a cap rested on his head, worked skillfully with golden flowers that could not rival the long spill of hair that spilled from beneath it. In one hand, he carried a very long, silver battle sword. His feet were quite bare.
"Have you seen her?" Glorfindel demanded of him, blue eyes flashing with fervor.
"Who, my lord?" Haldir asked, thinking that perhaps he was still in a dream somewhere, for this could not be real...could it?
"The child! The tiny child with – Oh, never mind! I will rescue her myself!"
With that he strode off, growling in Quenya beneath his breath, threatening to take the heads of the ones who had set this child in harm's way.
Haldir watched him go, feeling very strange indeed, his head felt rather light. But before he could find a suitable explanation for this new development, someone tapped his shoulder. He spun defensively, fearing She had found him already.
"M-my lord!" he gasped, tipping his head, relief flooding him.
"Haldir!" Celeborn returned, craning his neck to see Glorfindel descending some steps into the courtyard below. "How are you feeling, child?" he asked at last with a smile, returning his attention to the march- warden.
"I...Rather oddly this morning, my lord," Haldir admitted, craning his neck to look behind Celeborn to see if he was indeed alone and not just a prelude to Her entrance.
"That is to be expected. You must come with me now though. Someone wishes to see you."
Haldir's eyes widened and he took a step backward. No! It could not be!
Celeborn seemed able to discern his thoughts and he grinned.
"The Lady is waiting, Haldir. We do not wish to make her any more upset than she already is."
She knows! the young march-warden thought. She knows I am free of her! She seeks to recapture me!
"I...I am sorry my lord, but...but...but I cannot! I...I will not!"
Celeborn watched in amazement as Haldir, dressed only in his nightshirt turned and sprinted away after Glorfindel. As he reached the top of the steps leading to the courtyard, Haldir turned, his eyes blazing with his newfound -
"FREEDOM!" he yelled, and then ran lightly down the steps and away.
"This is most unexpected," Celeborn commented to the air. A slow smile graced his handsome face. "What fun!" he declared and turned back the way he had come, wondering just how his wife would react...and then how Elrond would react when he was told of all the wonderful things transpiring in his realm...and then...how would Thranduil feel knowing he was the cause of all this? Laughing with delight, and rubbing his hands together in anticipation, the lord of Lorien suddenly burst into joyous song.
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Elrond and Celebrian had awakened in one another's arms, contented smiles lighting their faces. The sun was shining magically; birds were rejoicing just outside; in fact, one little sparrow had come into their room and was perched on the foot of their bed regarding them happily as she serenaded them. All was right with the world. Everything was so wonderful, so perfect.
And it stayed that way...for about ten minutes....
Responses to Reviewers
daw the minstrel - I certainly hope that it gets amusing. ;) I can tell you this though, not everyone is playing a joke on Little Greenleaf! ;))
JastaElf – If Laureahiril is NOT messing with those kids' heads then there is a BIG problem in Mirkwood! ;) I have every confidence that you can 'handle' the 'hard' king quite well...and will do fine with or without Aikalerion. I seem to be posting near holidays lately and it is still considered Easter (for a very little while anyway), so...yes, "Sleepers Awake" is appropriate! ;)
Laura – I am glad that your friend alerted you to the update. I haven't been on ff.net for a while myself, so do not worry about it. Yes, Brethil is still his very sweet self and always will be. I can easily guess who you were on the test. ;) BUT...can you guess who I was??? ;P
kingmaker – Laureahiril and Tanglinna get along just about as well as you would think they do. ;) I suppose I will have to be nice to Galadriel after all the fun I am having with her in this story...a sort of apology...or something. ;) Hm...don't you think Arwen could charm just about anyone?? ;))
Lainfaer – Soon enough?? ;) I am working on it!!
Simply Sara – My updating has been too sporadic on this one, but I am working very hard to correct that and hope that the updates will come much more quickly than they have been. :)
Hel – You are right. Laureahiril thinks she is just a bit too important, but she enjoys it. I believe you are very correct in thinking that Tanglinna should be more worried about how Thranduil will react when he wakes up instead of Galadriel. I don't think the king will be very pleased. ;) Well...Celeborn did not know about the soap, but I think he enjoyed it once he found out! And do not worry. There will be more ENM in this tale! ;)
Tant – I agree. If Tanglinna would lock and bolt the door, they might keep those evil Noldorin ladies at bay for a time! ;) I am fairly certain that Legolas and Brethil will be fine...probably.... ;)
None – A lot of people seem to feel sorry for Poor Little Greenleaf. And yes, the twins definitely need to be the ones to have tricks played on them; they are having entirely too much fun being the pranksters! I will see what can be done about that!
Dis Thrainsdotter – If the twins have their way, they will be more than glad to tell everyone something about what happened, but if it will be the truth or not is anyone's guess! ;)
Sirithiliel – What are you rehearsing in Drama? So you are a budding actress, are you? I will definitely watch for the moose in Brother Bear. They look very funny on the preview. :)
erunyauve – The twins are being very mean just now, and perhaps they will find that it is not fun to be on the other end of such...fun...at some point. And yes, I would not want to mess with Thranduil myself! ;)
Dragonofthenorth - in blue "I can see who will win the housing argument already, and I think that the Noldor are becoming a bit too populous in Greenwood! No innocent smiles, please. They do not work on me!" Brethilitis is catching, especially when you are trying to prevent someone from saying something you do not want them to say. I think Thranduil must look quite fetching with blue skin. ;)
Ptath - :) I had to make you wait til this chapter for the actual awakenings. No marathon chapters in this tale! ;) How did Haldir feel? Yes, he likes his freedom...probably a little TOO much. Poor Galadriel! And Thranduil...LOL Poor Tanglinna! ;)
EMerald QUeen – I admit that Tavor/Tambaro's house is very unusual for Mirkwood, but then Laureahiril is not a Wood-elf and she informs me with a rather indignant sniff that she never will be, so ... basically I let her have what she wants! She scares me! ;) And yes, elves definitely sleep with their eyes open, but I thought that since they were drugged, it does not count as their elven dreams, but something that is forced on them and I decided to shut their eyes for this one. ;)
Carandra – First, my apologies that Tambaro (I like this name better than Tavor myself) does not appear in person in this chapter, but I promise he will be back in the next one. He is very pleased that you like him so very well! And yes! He definitely gets his mischievousness and cleverness from his araamil!
nilraen – Sorry about the confusion. There are a lot of things going on! I manage to confuse myself on occasion. ;) And yes! LOL I admit that when I first decided that the little spider was Bastryn, I thought that it sounded an awful lot like bastard as well. But the meaning fit him, so I kept it!
wellduh – I am glad you are enjoying this so much. Do not worry. I will continue it to the end!
the evil witch queen – Yes, Little Greenleaf and company are going to have another adventure. I could not ignore them just because I left them 'safely' at home. LOL Do you really want Legolas to see his ada all blue?? Just tell me and it shall be done!
fliewatuet – Whatever the twins are thinking is always fun. They are such a joy - if you are the twins and not their intended 'victim'. Yes, I do not envy Tanglinna in the least! :)
Pennhirwen – I am glad you found my silly fic and are enjoying it. I don't think I can manage to get the trio to Rivendell...not in this tale anyway, but perhaps in some tale. Thank you for putting me on your fav list! :)
WeasleyTwinsLover1112 – I am not really surprised that you like the twins. points to your name Twins are a lot of fun! And yes, :( Life does bite sometimes!
Miss Aranel and the girls – I am glad that you are enjoying this story. I enjoy writing Legolas, Brethil, and Tavor when they are younger. It was fun for me being young and getting into 'trouble' though admittedly not nearly the trouble they get into. ;) Brethil is a favorite of mine as well, and I think they pick on him too much! Poor Brethil! ;)
Earendil Eldar – LOL I had never thought of the closeness of Dorwinion and Darwinian before! I wish I could take credit for the Dorwinion wine, but Tolkien made that one up – I just expanded on it a bit. ;) I am glad you are enjoying this! :)
Author's Note – The title is thanks to JastaElf. :)
Meanwhile in Mirkwood
Brethil started about him in wonder and amazement as torchlight flickered on the gleaming points, edges, and the highly polished hafts of the weapons arrayed on the walls about them: long swords taller than he was, short swords, daggers, pikes, spears, halberds, long wicked looking arrows, and several things he had no name for. Each was polished, glinting, and battle-ready, as if merely waiting for the warriors to rush in and carry them forth, brandishing them bravely against any enemy.
"Legolas," he breathed, his eyes moving slowly, almost reluctantly to his companion, who was grimly studying the weapons on the wall before him. In one wall's center was a very long, very beautiful and very scary-looking spear, its point shining as though it were made of diamonds rather than pale silver. Elegant argent letters curved from the blade up the dark handle, entwined with a leafy vine. "'The hand that wields me will always conquer,'" Brethil read slowly, eyes widening as he gazed in admiration at that magnificent weapon. "Whose was that?" he asked quietly, noticing that Legolas was studying it as well.
"My daeradar's," he answered. "Oropher Gaelthelaion," he finished in a hushed, awed voice.
Brethil's mouth sagged open and he stared at it anew, even more impressed than he had been. Dragon-Gutter - the Great Oropher's spear....
Legolas gazed steadily at it, knowing that it was the one he had to have. What other weapon would suffice against a Balrog? He knew that he was not supposed to touch his daeradar's spear, but it was the most wondrous weapon in this room and said to contain a magic of its own. And he needed all the help he could get!
"Choose a weapon well, Brethil," he said in a low, earnest voice, his face filled with determination.
"Me?!" Brethil squeaked, his eyes wide. But he swallowed back his fear and gazed once more at the weapons. There were just so many of them, all gleaming and murmuring to him about how wonderful they were and they longed for him to take them forth into battle once more. But the one that seemed to speak the loudest in his heart was a spear, not nearly as magnificent as Dragon-Gutter, but shorter, the shaft narrower, and the point of silver bearing cryptic marks, not the Feanorian letters or the Runes crafted by Daeron, but something that looked like they should say something.
He glanced over at Legolas, and then took the spear from its place of honor on the wall. He was about to turn away, when he looked back. Another weapon seemed to beckon to him. It was a bow, something that he was much better at handling than a spear, a bit long for him, but he thought he could manage. He took it as well, thought Legolas gazed over at him with a frown. Brethil shrugged, and took up a quiver bearing blue- fletched arrows.
"I am ready," he said, watching as Legolas reverently lowered Oropher's grand spear, holding it in his hands, eyes shining with admiration.
The young prince nodded, wishing that Tavor were with them. Not that he blamed their friend for not wanting to become involved in this. It was his daerna-araamil, after all. He drew a deep steadying breath wondering if they should loot the armory for some pieces of armor, but decided that it would make no difference. Balrog fire would eat right through it.
No! he told himself sternly, trying to imagine that he were his towering daeradar, who was afraid of nothing and no one – not even a fearsome Balrog that looked like a Noldorin lady most of the time.
"Let's go, Brethil," he said in a low, determined voice. "She is waiting."
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"Good morning, sweet prince!" two voices called in harmony as Aralith focused on the ceiling overhead, then immediately shut his eyes.
Not the twins! he thought in exasperation. Not the twins!! There were no two voices quite so annoying as those of the Elrondions' and -what were they doing in Mirkwood?!
Forcing his face to impassivity, he drew a deep breath, telling himself that he had to be polite, he was Thranduil's son and Oropher's grandson, after all, and they were obviously guests, though he could not recall that they were coming for a visit.
Little Greenleaf is supposed to be picking Elrond's present....Maybe they have come to fetch it in person.
Slowly, and most hesitantly, he opened his eyes once more. They were seated on the foot of his bed, dressed exactly alike, hair fixed in exactly the same style and draped over their shoulders so they looked like perfect mirror images of one another.
They smiled down at him, and then pressed their hands to their hearts, tilting their heads just so.
"You look so very sweet this morning, Aralith," one of the said: Elladan maybe...or Elrohir....
"We hated to awaken you, but you have deprived us of your delightful company for far too long!"
"Why look, El! His eyes are nearly the same color as his crown!"
"Why, brother! You are right! What lovely eyes you have, dear Enedbal. Has anyone told you that before?"
"If not, they have been very remiss."
"What color are Bastryn's eyes, El? I do not recall?"
"It would be so delicious if his eyes were that same gorgeous blue- violet as well, yes. But I do not think they are. Do you remember what color his eyes are, Enedbal?"
Aralith frowned at them, thinking them as maddening as ever.
"Why are you calling me 'Periwinkle'?" he demanded, starting to move into a sitting position. But the twins moved to push him back onto the pillows.
"Because of your lovely crown, silly," they answered in their strange harmony.
"Lie still or you will awaken him."
Aralith's fingers brushed his hair and he felt the small floral crown that graced his golden locks. He then glared back at the twins, who were smiling so innocently.
"A fitting crown, don't you think, Enedbal? Being a Wood-elf and all, we know you like to wear pretty flowers in your hair. We wanted you to feel at home while you are here."
"Bastryn looks very sweet as well. Poor sleepy spider."
It was then that Aralith became aware of the weigh against his thigh, beneath the light cover. What was going on? And just who was this Bastryn they kept talking about! Had they said...'spider'!!?? He swallowed hard, in a throat suddenly gone dry. No, there was not a spider beneath the covers ... there was not! There was no spider nestled against his leg...no! Please, Elbereth! No! And what did they mean 'while you are here'?
Suddenly, he realized that he was not in his room at Gladaran Thamas. The walls were not painted in the graduating shades of lavender and blue like the evening sky. No curtains strung with brass bells fluttered in the open windows. Where was he?!
He did sit up then, an odd feeling that something was not right assaulting him.
Then he heard the slight mewling noise beside him and he glanced down, hand hovering over the pale covers. He quickly thrust them back.
Nestled beside him was a baby spider, blinking its too many eyes sleepily.
"Naneth Lhing?" it squeaked, gazing up at him.
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Thranduil, King of Mirkwood, sighed and stared at the ceiling. Sunlight danced off its carved surface and the sound of birdsong drifted in at the window. Ah, yes! It was going to be a beautiful day! He smiled and stretched languorously.
"Ah... good morning, aran-hir," a voice said close at hand, causing Thranduil to frown and turn toward it. He sighed, this time in exasperation, and scowled.
"Why are you in my room, Tanglinna?" he asked, sitting up abruptly and staring at the Silvan, who pushed up from the chair where he had been sitting.
"That is a good question," the archer answered evasively with a tight smile. "How –how are you feeling?"
One dark golden brow arched suspiciously.
"I am quite well. Why are you enquiring?"
"I am ... merely concerned for ... your well-being, hir-nin."
"My well-being? I see .... What has happened now? Did Little Greenleaf chose something that I will not be happy about sending to Imladris? Is that what this is about?"
Tanglinna grimaced slightly and shrugged.
"You could say that, hir-nin." If only you knew, he thought wryly and managed a slight smile. "Um, shall I...." He sighed, gazing at his blue monarch. Should he tell him now, or let Thranduil discover the truth when he first looked into a mirror? Or was it possible to make him avoid glancing into the chill, oh-so-honest glass? "There is ... that is, there are ... a few ... things that you should know about before ... before you get up."
"He is not sending that spider, is he? Not that it would not be amusing," Thranduil said with a grin and threw back the coverlet and stood.
"Well, yes....He is, um that is he did send the spider...."
"He did? Marvelous! But when was this? This morning?"
"Honesty is best...yes, it is," the archer murmured with renewed determination.
"What are you mumbling about?" Thranduil asked as he moved across the room, then he suddenly halted, gazing about him. "This is not my room," he began slowly. "Where am I?" He turned slowly to look at Tanglinna, who smiled weakly.
"Imladris, hir-nin," he answered.
Thranduil said nothing. There was no indignant outburst, no demand to know why he was in Imladris or how had he gotten here, only cold silence as he stared over at Tanglinna. Slowly, the king advanced back across the room, coming to stand so close to Tanglinna that their noses were nearly touching.
The Silvan smiled slightly, easing back a few steps and crossing his arms over his chest and attempting to look inscrutable, but fearing he was failing miserably when those too blue eyes glared at him in that too blue face. Suddenly, he felt a most mutinous bubble of laughter building in his chest. Really, Thranduil did look too ridiculous!
"Are you going to tell me what sort of joke this is?" the king demanded in a very low, very controlled voice.
Struggling to keep his mirth in check, Tanglinna cleared his throat, straightening to his full height, still a few inches shorter than the king unfortunately.
"It is no joke, hir-nin. Though it is indeed worthy of Little Greenleaf," he choked out. He turned his head away, hoping to hide the laughter that trickled forth in a cough, but Thranduil reached out and grabbed his face with one strong hand and forced the archer to meet his gaze.
"What is this all about? What -!" Thranduil's eyes lit on his hand, which tightened on Tanglinna's jaw. There was something very wrong.... Such an elegant long fingered thing his hand was, only...his fingers, hand, wrist...they were all...blue...? His eyes widened as he continued to stare at his hand. "What....What is this?" he said in a voice that would have frightened Morgoth Bauglir himself.
Tanglinna did step back then, drawing a deep steadying breath.
"That ... is a rather long story, hir-nin. If you will just sit down, I will be glad to - "
But Thranduil was no longer looking at him. He turned, moving swiftly across the room and yanking the cloth that had been placed over the mirror not long before, and sweeping it aside. He leaned forward, staring at his reflection, a look of disbelief on his gloriously handsome face.
He glared at the reflection, studying every inch of skin he could see. Then he noted the lovely green in his hair. Green and blue...usually such lovely colors....
Tanglinna was holding his breath, wondering if he could hobble to the door in time, but it was too late. Thranduil's face had turned a lovely shade of...purple....
Yes, blue and red do make purple, after all, Tanglinna thought with a frown before covering his ears with his hands.
"LITTLE GREENLEAF!!!!!!!!"
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"Where is she?! I must stop that poor child from being slaughtered! Where is she!? Erestor! Erestor!"
Elrond's chief counselor paused, turning at the sound of Glorfindel's rather frantic cry. The elf-lord was still dressed in his nightshirt, the one Erestor had put on him after they had found Glorfindel, Haldir, and Prince Aralith caught in an unnatural sleep in one of the greenhouses. His feet were bare and his hair was in golden disarray, most unusual for someone as fastidious as Glorfindel was.
"You are awake!" Erestor said happily. "Marvelous! I was beginning to wonder if -"
"Where is she? Erestor, you must help me find her before it is too late!"
"Who?"
"The child, the tiny girl with a golden braid. She was dressed in armor and carrying a sword! Oh, Erestor, we must stop her immediately!"
Erestor gazed at him, feeling most puzzled and alarmed. Was this some sort of bizarre side effect of that water from Mirkwood that they knew nothing about, some sort of delusion of very some sort?
"She was going to slay an evil lady Balrog! She said so! We must stop her!"
Hoping his distress was not too obvious, Erestor lay one gentle hand on his friend's arm.
"There is no child here like that, Glorfindel," he said in a soothing voice. "It was...a dream. That is all - mere ephemeral fancy. You have been asleep for some time now, you know."
"Nay! This was no dream! Do I not know the difference between dreams and reality? They were sending a mere child to confront a Balrog! Have they gone mad?! We must help her!"
Before Erestor could stop Glorfindel and talk some sense into him, or at least call for help, the elf-lord pulled away from him, running down the hall, his nightshirt flying about his knees.
Toward the armory is my guess, Erestor thought helplessly.
"But you don't know where she is!" he called after the departing figure, shaking his dark head and sighing.
Would all the Sleepers be this addled when they awoke? Perhaps he should be checking on the lord and lady. Maybe they could explain things to him.
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"Celeborn...."
"Yes, my dearest life?"
"Something is not...as it should be."
"What is that, my light?"
Galadriel turned to regard her husband, studying his well-known, beloved face.
"I am not certain. Something has...transpired, and yet it remains hidden from me."
Celeborn smiled down at her, taking one long, delicate fingered hand in his own and gently stroking it.
"It is nothing you need concern yourself with now, fairest luminescence," he said in a low, soothing voice while inwardly exulting at the most rare and glorious feeling of knowing something she did not...even if only for a short time.
"You must tell me, Celeborn," she insisted, her luminous eyes locking with his.
How very odd, he thought. I feel no compulsion whatsoever to obey her. Not even a twinge!
"It will sort itself out in time," he told her, bending to kiss her fair brow. "How are you feeling, my blossom?"
Galadriel continued to stare at him, feathery brows knit in concentration.
"I hope you are feeling quite well," her husband continued, watching her delightful facial contortions as she bent her will against his and ... lost. "Imladris in spring is quite marvelous, and not something to be missed by lying abed all day. Not that lying abed with you isn't marvelous, golden minx" he said with a smile.
Finally, her face smoothed to its normal marble-like, dispassionate appearance, but Celeborn could see she was struggling with something else now.
"Imladris," she murmured, trying to still her mind, which threatened to fall into chaos once more. She drew several deep, calming breaths. "Imladris," she whispered.
"We are here for Elrond's celebration, my glorious sunlight" Celeborn encouraged, wondering how much of her memory had been washed away by that enchanted water from Mirkwood.
"It is not time for that...." She hesitated, the strange flitting dreams that had haunted her sleep returning. "My dreams have been troubled of late," she admitted. "I have seen things...felt things...."
"Yes, dear heart. That will pass away as a mist before the sun of your will. Do not worry. These feelings are only temporary...or so I have been informed."
"Informed by whom?"
"All will be told in time, sweetest flower. But I believe you should –"
Suddenly her face crumbled and she grasped Celeborn's hand in a vise- like grip as she stared at him, her eyes filled with utter distress.
"Why can I not feel them?" she asked in a childlike voice of despair. "Why can I not feel my little Galadrim?"
Celeborn's dark brows knit. This was an unexpected development, and yet....Yes, that might explain things.
"I am not certain, beloved dove. That too will pass away." I believe it will pass away. Though would it be a bad thing if it did not?
"Who is here?" she asked, pushing to a sitting position, her hair wild about her face and shoulders, untamed and unrestrained. Celeborn thought she looked magnificent for all her fear. "Who came with us to Imladris?"
As Celeborn began to name their escorts, wondering why she had this sudden urge to know – and marveling a bit that she could not 'see' who had come with them, a gleam filled her eyes as she gazed at him with faint hope.
"Haldir is here," she breathed, clutching his name to her like a child with a favorite toy. "Bring him to me."
Her calmness seemed to return at the though of the march-warden, and Celeborn kissed her hands, rising gracefully from her side.
"It shall be done, radiant star" he promised and moved toward the door.
"It is about to start," he murmured gleefully. And grinning quite happily over this development, and the fact that he did not have to think of any more terms of endearment to call her - as the reserves were nearly dry - he stepped into the hall.
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Haldir was standing on a balcony that overlooked the distant waterfall, his silvery eyes distant yet filled with a light that had not been seen in a very long time. It had taken him some time to emerge from hiding -no, not hiding - he had been merely...taking his time that was all. Yet he had feared that if he stepped from his room, She would find him and he would be lost once more to Her golden glow and Her siren's voice in his head. He had debated with himself for some time on whether it was merely the room that shielded him from Her or if it were some other mysterious force he knew nothing about. It was not his room, not his talan that he was ensconced in. No, this was a strange room, not readily recognizable. Where was he? When this burning question grew to great for him and he needed answers before She came looking for him, he left the comfort of his bed and slowly approached the open doorway, cautiously peering about the corner.
Why, I am in Imladris! he thought in amazement, for his room afforded him a lovely view of the waterfall and the valley beyond. I wonder why I am here? Did She send me? Or did my lord? Perhaps he wished to free me from Her for my long years of faithful service....
While he stood pondering this new mystery, he saw Glorfindel approaching, a very determined look on his face. Haldir blinked a few times, as the elf-lord came to stand before him. He was dressed very strangely in what appeared to be a nightshirt. Haldir was still in his nightshirt, but he was not dressed in any inappropriate armor. Was Glorfindel having some sort of wardrobe crisis? For a breastplate of gold engraved with a rayed sun adorned Glorfindel's chest, a cap rested on his head, worked skillfully with golden flowers that could not rival the long spill of hair that spilled from beneath it. In one hand, he carried a very long, silver battle sword. His feet were quite bare.
"Have you seen her?" Glorfindel demanded of him, blue eyes flashing with fervor.
"Who, my lord?" Haldir asked, thinking that perhaps he was still in a dream somewhere, for this could not be real...could it?
"The child! The tiny child with – Oh, never mind! I will rescue her myself!"
With that he strode off, growling in Quenya beneath his breath, threatening to take the heads of the ones who had set this child in harm's way.
Haldir watched him go, feeling very strange indeed, his head felt rather light. But before he could find a suitable explanation for this new development, someone tapped his shoulder. He spun defensively, fearing She had found him already.
"M-my lord!" he gasped, tipping his head, relief flooding him.
"Haldir!" Celeborn returned, craning his neck to see Glorfindel descending some steps into the courtyard below. "How are you feeling, child?" he asked at last with a smile, returning his attention to the march- warden.
"I...Rather oddly this morning, my lord," Haldir admitted, craning his neck to look behind Celeborn to see if he was indeed alone and not just a prelude to Her entrance.
"That is to be expected. You must come with me now though. Someone wishes to see you."
Haldir's eyes widened and he took a step backward. No! It could not be!
Celeborn seemed able to discern his thoughts and he grinned.
"The Lady is waiting, Haldir. We do not wish to make her any more upset than she already is."
She knows! the young march-warden thought. She knows I am free of her! She seeks to recapture me!
"I...I am sorry my lord, but...but...but I cannot! I...I will not!"
Celeborn watched in amazement as Haldir, dressed only in his nightshirt turned and sprinted away after Glorfindel. As he reached the top of the steps leading to the courtyard, Haldir turned, his eyes blazing with his newfound -
"FREEDOM!" he yelled, and then ran lightly down the steps and away.
"This is most unexpected," Celeborn commented to the air. A slow smile graced his handsome face. "What fun!" he declared and turned back the way he had come, wondering just how his wife would react...and then how Elrond would react when he was told of all the wonderful things transpiring in his realm...and then...how would Thranduil feel knowing he was the cause of all this? Laughing with delight, and rubbing his hands together in anticipation, the lord of Lorien suddenly burst into joyous song.
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Elrond and Celebrian had awakened in one another's arms, contented smiles lighting their faces. The sun was shining magically; birds were rejoicing just outside; in fact, one little sparrow had come into their room and was perched on the foot of their bed regarding them happily as she serenaded them. All was right with the world. Everything was so wonderful, so perfect.
And it stayed that way...for about ten minutes....
Responses to Reviewers
daw the minstrel - I certainly hope that it gets amusing. ;) I can tell you this though, not everyone is playing a joke on Little Greenleaf! ;))
JastaElf – If Laureahiril is NOT messing with those kids' heads then there is a BIG problem in Mirkwood! ;) I have every confidence that you can 'handle' the 'hard' king quite well...and will do fine with or without Aikalerion. I seem to be posting near holidays lately and it is still considered Easter (for a very little while anyway), so...yes, "Sleepers Awake" is appropriate! ;)
Laura – I am glad that your friend alerted you to the update. I haven't been on ff.net for a while myself, so do not worry about it. Yes, Brethil is still his very sweet self and always will be. I can easily guess who you were on the test. ;) BUT...can you guess who I was??? ;P
kingmaker – Laureahiril and Tanglinna get along just about as well as you would think they do. ;) I suppose I will have to be nice to Galadriel after all the fun I am having with her in this story...a sort of apology...or something. ;) Hm...don't you think Arwen could charm just about anyone?? ;))
Lainfaer – Soon enough?? ;) I am working on it!!
Simply Sara – My updating has been too sporadic on this one, but I am working very hard to correct that and hope that the updates will come much more quickly than they have been. :)
Hel – You are right. Laureahiril thinks she is just a bit too important, but she enjoys it. I believe you are very correct in thinking that Tanglinna should be more worried about how Thranduil will react when he wakes up instead of Galadriel. I don't think the king will be very pleased. ;) Well...Celeborn did not know about the soap, but I think he enjoyed it once he found out! And do not worry. There will be more ENM in this tale! ;)
Tant – I agree. If Tanglinna would lock and bolt the door, they might keep those evil Noldorin ladies at bay for a time! ;) I am fairly certain that Legolas and Brethil will be fine...probably.... ;)
None – A lot of people seem to feel sorry for Poor Little Greenleaf. And yes, the twins definitely need to be the ones to have tricks played on them; they are having entirely too much fun being the pranksters! I will see what can be done about that!
Dis Thrainsdotter – If the twins have their way, they will be more than glad to tell everyone something about what happened, but if it will be the truth or not is anyone's guess! ;)
Sirithiliel – What are you rehearsing in Drama? So you are a budding actress, are you? I will definitely watch for the moose in Brother Bear. They look very funny on the preview. :)
erunyauve – The twins are being very mean just now, and perhaps they will find that it is not fun to be on the other end of such...fun...at some point. And yes, I would not want to mess with Thranduil myself! ;)
Dragonofthenorth - in blue "I can see who will win the housing argument already, and I think that the Noldor are becoming a bit too populous in Greenwood! No innocent smiles, please. They do not work on me!" Brethilitis is catching, especially when you are trying to prevent someone from saying something you do not want them to say. I think Thranduil must look quite fetching with blue skin. ;)
Ptath - :) I had to make you wait til this chapter for the actual awakenings. No marathon chapters in this tale! ;) How did Haldir feel? Yes, he likes his freedom...probably a little TOO much. Poor Galadriel! And Thranduil...LOL Poor Tanglinna! ;)
EMerald QUeen – I admit that Tavor/Tambaro's house is very unusual for Mirkwood, but then Laureahiril is not a Wood-elf and she informs me with a rather indignant sniff that she never will be, so ... basically I let her have what she wants! She scares me! ;) And yes, elves definitely sleep with their eyes open, but I thought that since they were drugged, it does not count as their elven dreams, but something that is forced on them and I decided to shut their eyes for this one. ;)
Carandra – First, my apologies that Tambaro (I like this name better than Tavor myself) does not appear in person in this chapter, but I promise he will be back in the next one. He is very pleased that you like him so very well! And yes! He definitely gets his mischievousness and cleverness from his araamil!
nilraen – Sorry about the confusion. There are a lot of things going on! I manage to confuse myself on occasion. ;) And yes! LOL I admit that when I first decided that the little spider was Bastryn, I thought that it sounded an awful lot like bastard as well. But the meaning fit him, so I kept it!
wellduh – I am glad you are enjoying this so much. Do not worry. I will continue it to the end!
the evil witch queen – Yes, Little Greenleaf and company are going to have another adventure. I could not ignore them just because I left them 'safely' at home. LOL Do you really want Legolas to see his ada all blue?? Just tell me and it shall be done!
fliewatuet – Whatever the twins are thinking is always fun. They are such a joy - if you are the twins and not their intended 'victim'. Yes, I do not envy Tanglinna in the least! :)
Pennhirwen – I am glad you found my silly fic and are enjoying it. I don't think I can manage to get the trio to Rivendell...not in this tale anyway, but perhaps in some tale. Thank you for putting me on your fav list! :)
WeasleyTwinsLover1112 – I am not really surprised that you like the twins. points to your name Twins are a lot of fun! And yes, :( Life does bite sometimes!
Miss Aranel and the girls – I am glad that you are enjoying this story. I enjoy writing Legolas, Brethil, and Tavor when they are younger. It was fun for me being young and getting into 'trouble' though admittedly not nearly the trouble they get into. ;) Brethil is a favorite of mine as well, and I think they pick on him too much! Poor Brethil! ;)
Earendil Eldar – LOL I had never thought of the closeness of Dorwinion and Darwinian before! I wish I could take credit for the Dorwinion wine, but Tolkien made that one up – I just expanded on it a bit. ;) I am glad you are enjoying this! :)