Summer Festival
Aragorn sat in his study late one evening when Bergo interrupted him. "My Lord, a guest has just arrived from Arnor. He said he must speak with you right away."
Aragorn knew what this was about, but he wasn't sure who he would be greeting. "Send him in."
Bergo disappeared and another man entered. He carried his saddlebag over his shoulder and still bore the dust of travel. He seemed like a young man, perhaps in his twenties with golden brown hair and dark grey eyes. His expression was businesslike as he bowed low.
"My liege, I have been sent by Halbarad to assist you." He straightened up and held out a letter to Aragorn. "Here is his reply to your message."
Aragorn read the letter quickly, noting the high praise his old friend had for the man that stood before him. Grayson, son of…Halbarad. Indeed! Aragorn smiled and looked at the man again. He hadn't recognized him at first. He was older than he appeared, and as Halbarad's son, his skills would be invaluable.
"Grayson, forgive me, I did not recognize you," Aragorn said. "Let me tell you why I sent for help…"
It was the day of the Summer Festival and guests were arriving in Ithilien all day. Legolas saw to everyone's needs as to lodging and such. He remained in the square most of the morning while Skye saw to the preparation of the hall for the feast that evening. Aragorn and his family arrived early.
"Welcome," Legolas called as Aragorn and his family entered the square.
"Thank you, Lord of the wood," Aragorn said with a smile as he dismounted. "How is your lady wife settling into life here?"
"She seems quite content, but I fear she misses her home a little," Legolas said.
Aragorn nodded, and the rest of his family greeted Legolas. Arwen was with him and Eldarion, Miiriel and their children. And in their company was an unfamiliar face, and Legolas looked from him to Aragorn expectantly waiting for the introduction.
"Legolas, this is Grayson, a Ranger from Arnor. I sent for him to train and guard Godwin." Aragorn said.
Legolas cocked a brow, "And does Alcon know of this?"
"I have not spoken to him of this yet," Aragorn admitted. "I don't like imposing my will on my nephew like this, but the need is there, and the time is increasingly short. We cannot wait until he is old enough to leave home to train."
Legolas sighed, "This is true. Even now I have ordered a constant watch on their family."
"I'm sure Alcon was displeased with that," Aragorn said with a smirk.
Legolas chuckled and offered Grayson his hand, "Welcome to the wood, Ranger. Thank you for your help."
Grayson gave his hand a friendly shake and bowed slightly, "Thank you. Where is my charge? I am anxious to meet him."
"They are all gathered at Thelyn's house, save Lyneya who is here in the hall with Skye. I believe you will find Godwin with his father," Legolas said.
"Then we will stop there first. I am anxious to visit Allassante's family, but this business is urgent, and I want it settled before the feast this evening," Aragorn said.
"Then I bid you good afternoon," Legolas said. "I see there are others arriving so I won't keep you. A host's duties are never done."
Aragorn laughed and led his family down the path that led to Thelyn's house. Grayson gave Legolas another respectful bow and followed. He hoped his presence would be well received by the boy's father, but families could be protective. His understanding of the situation was sketchy at best. The King had only told him the basics, a boy of seven or eight in need of training in all skills. Other than that, he knew nothing else. He hadn't expected the boy to be an Elf.
Ẻomer and his family were coming down the path, and Legolas smiled at the sound of a familiar voice. Gimli must have traveled with the King of the Rohirrim, and Legolas stepped into the open to greet everyone. Ẻomer and Lothiriel greeted and hugged him and then Legolas turned his attention to the annoyed looking dwarf.
"Gimli, why so cross? This is a day of celebration," Legolas said, but knew what was probably bothering his friend.
"You went on an adventure and didn't take me with you," Gimli accused.
"Indeed, I admit it. The journey was most unexpected," Legolas said.
"Rumor has it you are married," Gimli said gruffly as he crossed his arms over his chest. "Where is she?"
"Master dwarf, be kind," Lothiriel said.
"Aye, my lady, I will, but he must answer for depriving me of yet another wedding feast. The lads are one thing, but you, Legolas… you know better," Gimli said looking truly hurt.
Legolas put a hand on his friend's shoulder, "I was following your advice. Come, let's go talk in private and you can ask me all about it."
Gimli smirked as they headed down the path, "Finally, someone listened to me."
"I always listen to you my friend," Legolas said.
"Where did this unexpected adventure take you?" Gimli asked.
"To Miranda's world of all places," Legolas said. "That is where I met my wife."
"What manner of woman was it that finally snared you?" Gimli asked as they climbed the steps to Legolas house.
"She is like none other," Legolas said wistfully. "Upon first look, I was smitten. She's a gentle hearted lady with all the grace of one of Miranda's fairies."
Gimli chuckled and shook his head, "I must meet this creature who placed those stars in your eyes, lad. She sounds most amazing."
Skye ran back and forth between the kitchen and the hall. Everything was being taken care of but she needed to feel useful. Lyneya was sitting in a chair in the corner of the gathering hall kitchen and watched her comings and goings with amusement. She saw Skye returning yet again and called to her.
"Skye, stop this. Everything will be ready without you hovering about. Go prepare for your dance… or meet some of the guests," Lyneya said.
Skye paled at the thought of meeting the guests. She knew there were kings and lords from all over coming and she was nervous. But preparing for her performance was a good idea. "I'll go and change for the feast… and make sure my costume is laid out for later."
Lyneya sighed, "Good idea." As Skye left, Lyneya turned her attention back to the cooks. She had come to help with the food, but Eruanna had insisted she rest. She was pondering going home, since no one would let her help anyway. The healer said she would have a difficult labor and should prepare for it now. Truthfully, Lyneya felt like a stuffed Oliphaunt. She couldn't put on her own shoes anymore and it was annoying. She couldn't wait to have this child.
Aragorn sent his family ahead to Allassante's house while he and Grayson went to speak to Alcon. They entered Thelyn's yard and were warmly greeted by Cálale.
"Uncle!" she shouted as she ran to Aragorn and hugged him.
Aragorn laughed and gave her a squeeze. "Well, it has been too long since I've seen you. My but you've grown."
"Mother says I'm going to be tall like father," Cálale informed him proudly.
"Indeed, I do believe it," Aragorn said. "Are your father and uncles here?"
"Yes, they are at the table talking," she said. "Go right in."
Aragorn smiled as she ran off into the woods. He stepped up on the porch, turned to Grayson and paused thoughtfully before speaking. "Let me explain your presence to Alcon before you speak to him. I gave him no warning of your business here."
"Will he be offended?" Grayson asked with concern.
Aragorn paused, "I'm not sure. His situation is… unique. It will be clear to you soon, and we can discuss it in detail later. Come in and meet the family."
Aragorn opened the door and was warmly greeted by Thelyn.
"Come in and welcome! Won't you and your friend have a seat and rest?" Thelyn said.
"Thank you," Aragorn said. "This is Grayson, a Ranger from Arnor."
Grayson offered a friendly smile as the three Elves at the table welcomed him. He sat and waited for the King to explain. He didn't like the position he found himself in, and there was still no sign of the boy.
"Alcon, where is your son?" Aragorn asked.
"Outside with Cálale," Alcon said. "Did you not see him?"
"No, we saw only Cálale," Aragorn said.
"Do you want me to call him in?" Alcon asked as he started to rise.
"No, not yet," Aragorn said with a furrowed brow. "I want to talk to you first."
Alcon sat beck down and felt a knot in his stomach. He had a bad feeling about this visit.
Aragorn took a deep breath and decided to just come right out and say what his plan was.
"Alcon, Grayson is here to help train Godwin. He was recommended to me by Halbarad as the best Ranger in the north. He will also watch over him when your duties keep you away from home. Normally, when Godwin was older, he would travel to Arnor to train, but with everything that has been happening…"
Alcon's expression was unreadable as he interrupted, "I understand, it is a wise compromise."
"Then you approve?" Aragorn asked.
Alcon's expression was like stone as he looked at Aragorn. "Everyone else makes decisions for my son without me, and you ask if I approve? I am responsible for him, and I have seen to his protection and training from the beginning. Your Ranger's reputation not withstanding, I am insulted. Do you fear that you will lose a future ally if you leave his upbringing to me alone?"
Aragorn couldn't blame his feelings, but he had to defend his decision. "I am aware of the secret visits to the wood. Rhûn will not wait for Godwin to reach manhood in his own time. He will find it forced upon him, and I fear that will happen soon. I only want to help you prepare him. Do you think I know nothing of the struggle to the throne?"
Alcon sighed and looked at Grayson. He was rough looking, though he appeared to have made an effort to be presentable at the Festival. He was fairly young, but his eyes were discerning. It was obvious that he had seen much in his life. Perhaps this was not such a bad idea after all.
"I love my son, Ranger. I would give my life for him, would you?" Alcon asked.
"If you trust me with his care, I will watch over him with my life, without regret. I will teach him what I can as quickly as I can, for I understand the need is most urgent," Grayson said seriously.
Alcon looked at his brothers for support and they both gave him a reassuring nod.
"Very well, uncle," Alcon said. "I agree."
Aragorn nodded and then looked to the door.
Alcon sighed and rose to go call Godwin. He stepped out on the porch and called, "Son."
Grayson stood at the window and watched as a young boy ran out of the wood with the girl he'd met outside in tow. They were laughing like children, but the boy carried himself like an adult.
"Yes, Ada?" Godwin asked as he halted at the foot of the steps.
Grayson realized the boy was human, and had no resemblance to his father at all. How interesting…
"Cálale, why don't you go help your mother in the kitchen?" Alcon asked and she immediately went inside. He looked at Godwin and gave him a smile. "Sit here a moment."
Godwin looked at him expectantly and Alcon explained.
"You know of the Rangers of the North?" Alcon asked.
"Yes, they are well known as skilled outdoorsman and warriors," Godwin said.
"Uncle Aragorn has invited one of them to stay here and train you in his skills. His name is Grayson, and he will be staying with us," Alcon said.
Godwin paused a moment to let that sink in. "I would train with you, Ada."
"And you still shall, but you can learn much from him. Come, let us go welcome him," Alcon said kindly but firmly.
Godwin gave his father half a smile and nodded.
Grayson stepped away from the window and waited for them to enter. Godwin stepped in first and gave Aragorn a respectful bow before focusing his attention on the newcomer. Alcon stood behind him and made the introduction.
"Godwin, this is Grayson, Ranger of the Northern Realm of Arnor," Alcon said.
Godwin stepped over to him and offered his hand, "Welcome sir. I am honored that you would leave your homeland to come and train me. I will strive to be an attentive student."
Grayson smiled at his sincerity. He liked the boy immediately. "Call me Grayson. I am at your service."
Aragorn sighed with relief. He was glad to have this matter settled. He excused himself and allowed them to get acquainted while he went to visit his daughter. He hoped everything would go well for them. Alcon's agreement was reluctant, but Grayson was a good man. He'd win them over.
Skye tried to cross the square without running into anyone, but there were lots of people about. Some of them she recognized, even if their names eluded her. But there were others, obviously guests here for the festival. She saw a man and woman dressed regally, but in a style that differed from what she'd seen. The man was tall and broad with a blonde beard and long hair. He wore a tunic of rich green trimmed in gold and his lady dressed in a deep blue gown trimmed in white and gold. Skye kept walking as if she didn't notice them, thankful that they were already engaged in conversation with several of the rangers. But she wouldn't escape the encounter so easily as the lady in blue addressed her as she passed.
"Hello," she said. "Are you one of the guests form Gondor?"
Skye halted, turned and offered her a friendly smile. "No, my lady. I live here in the wood, though I can understand the mistake. Not being and elf myself, I do not look as though I belong. My name is Skye, welcome to Ithilien," Skye said formally, trying to be the hostess she was expected to be.
"Oh, thank you. I am Lothiriel from Rohan and this one here is my husband Ẻomer," Lothiriel said. Ẻomer was still talking to Cilmo so he didn't hear their discussion.
Skye realized she was being shamefully informal with royalty, "Oh, your majesty, forgive my lack of manners."
"Not at all, we have only met and this is your home after all," Lothiriel said with a smile. Ẻomer finally turned his attention to his wife again when Cilmo left and she introduced Skye. "Ẻomer, this is Lady Skye."
"Pleased to meet you," he said with a smile.
Skye curtsied, "The honor is mine."
Ẻomer looked around the square and finally furrowed his brow, "Where has our host got to?"
"Legolas is not doubt seeing to other guests. I apologize for his absence. Have you some place to rest before the feast?" Skye asked.
"Not yet," Ẻomer said as he gave her his full attention again.
"Then please come to my house. It is small, but comfortable, and you can refresh yourselves after your long journey," Skye said.
"We'd be delighted," Lothiriel said.
"Great! Come with me, it is but a short walk from the square," Skye said as she led the way down the narrow path.
Ẻomer and his wife followed their new acquaintance in silence. It had been a few years since they had visited the wood and much had changed, but Ẻomer thought the path seemed familiar. He hadn't had the heart to visit since his cousin Miranda left, but he was certain he'd been this way before. He saw a house up ahead and suddenly realized whose it was.
"My lady, how came you to live among the Elves?" Ẻomer asked, trying not to sound nosey.
"I married an Elf," she said as she reached the steps to the porch and turned.
Ẻomer looked at her a moment, and remembered the rumors he'd heard about Legolas being married. He decided to take a chance and just ask. "Then you are… Lady Greenleaf?"
Skye blushed as she climbed the steps and paused at the door, "Yes, that's the rumor. Please, won't you come inside?"
Lothiriel laughed brightly, "You left us at a disadvantage, lady Skye."
"No, I'm not used to the title yet," Skye admitted as she opened the door. "I'm not… from around here."
She held the door for her guests to enter and then followed them inside. Legolas and Gimli were seated at the table having a discussion and they stood to greet them as they entered.
"Welcome to my home, Ẻomer… Lady Lothiriel," Legolas said with a smile. "I see you've met my wife, Skye."
"Yes," Ẻomer said with a smirk. "We figured it out eventually. She is most charming. Where did your meet?"
Gimli looked Skye over a moment and frowned. "A redhead from Sanfrancisco, interesting choice, Elf."
Legolas shot him a warning look and Gimli just sighed and offered Skye a smile, "Welcome lass, I'm Gimli."
Skye brushed aside the comment, not sure what it meant anyway. "Thank you, Lord Gimli. Legolas speaks of you often. He has been most anxious to see you these past weeks. He tells me you are quite the story teller. I look forward to hearing about some of your adventures."
Gimli smiled at her friendly manner and flattery, "I can tell you about the lad here," he said elbowing Legolas. "We've shared quite a few adventures together."
Legolas cleared his throat, "Won't you all make yourselves comfortable? I'll bring some wine."
"No, you sit and visit with your friends, I'll bring the refreshments," Skye said as she headed to the kitchen. She needed a breather.
Legolas sat with his three guests and was confronted by their expectant looks. He visibly cringed and then blushed, "What?"
"She's lovely," Ẻomer said.
"I like her," Lothiriel said.
"A redhead?" Gimli asked again with a cocked brow.
"The color is called Auburn," Legolas said indignantly. "Do not read into something as trivial as hair color. I love Skye. She's an amazing woman."
Gimli gave a snort, still certain that the coincidence was just too much. He knew Legolas had carried feelings for Miranda, at least for a while. But he forced a smile when Skye returned with not only wine, but…
"What are these?" Gimli asked as he took a small disc like pastry from the tray.
"Sugar cookies," Skye said, "My mother's recipe."
Gimli sniffed it then tasted one. He smiled, "She can cook, Elf, I'll give you that."
Skye forced a smile. She had a feeling that the dwarf didn't like her very much. She excused herself to go change for the feast. As she closed the door she sighed heavily. What did she expect, that everyone would just fall at her feet? Of course not. But what did she do to bug her husband's best friend? She laid out her dance costume for later and then put on her formal gown for the feast. It was… sky blue, and she giggled at the thought. The color was chosen since it suited her complexion, but still… sky blue. How can you not giggle?
As the afternoon wore on, it was time to go to the hall for the feast. Legolas and Skye walked with their houseguests down to the square where they met Aragorn and his family. Eldarion and Miiriel were there along with all of Miranda's children and their families, save Nárello and Lalaith who dwelt in Rivendell. They all entered the hall and took their seats. Faramir and Ẻowyn were already seated and Nyére and Polodrin were greeting some of the Avari as they came in to be seated. Soon the hall was filled, and Legolas led Skye to their seats at the head table. On one side sat the royalty of Gondor and on the other side sat the royalty of Rohan. Legolas stood and greeted the gathering.
"Summer is the time of mild weather and light hearts, what better time than this to gather with friends and neighbors? I welcome to all, the greats of Gondor and Rohan, Kings and their families, Lords and ladies, Elves and dwarves and men. Let the feast begin!"
There was cheering and applause as the food was brought out and the wine was served. The meal was fine, with all the favorites of the elves and some recipes donated by the human inhabitants of the wood as well. The feasting went on for hours as light conversation and laughter filled the hall. As the hour grew late and all had eaten their fill, it was time for entertainment. The food was cleared away and tables were moved to give floor space. First was music and lays chronicling tales of the elves. Some were of things old, and some were more recent, like the tale of the Hiri Nolwë or the tale of the Avari's journey to the wood. Then there was dancing, and the Avari showed everyone what festivals were all about.
Aragorn watched the festivities with a light heart. With the business of Godwin's training and protection settled, he could relax and enjoy the evening. He noticed that their host and his new wife had slipped out of the hall, and then he saw Jamie join the musicians.
"A dance called ballet," Jamie announced.
Everyone murmured curiously about the strange title and then gave Jamie their attention. They thought perhaps it was she that would dance. But Jamie just nodded to the musicians to play as she set up the scene.
"A young princess has been in hiding from an evil sorceress. She lives with her three aunts and has been taught to be distrustful of strangers. She dreams of meeting a handsome prince some day. Unknown to her, today is that day…." Jamie stepped back and watched as Skye danced in carrying a basket of berries. Her footwork is well practiced, and her skirt, though still modest was short enough for everyone to see her feet.
Aragorn recognized the shoes and was impressed by her skill. He understood Legolas' choice a little better now.
Skye did a lighthearted dance, skipping about the room like a young girl might. She pretended to pick more berries here and there and then set her basked down. She looks around to see if anyone is there, and then pretended to meet someone. She pointed to herself with a questioning look and then smiled shyly as she curtsied. She pretended to hold an invisible partner and danced around as though waltzing. Then Jamie began to sing with the music.
"I know you, I walked with you once upon a dream. I know you the gleam in your eyes is so familiar a gleam. And I know it's true that visions are seldom all they seem, but if I know you… I know what you'll do. You'll love me at once, the way you did once upon a dream…"
Skye twirled and danced on her toes as Legolas entered the hall and pretended to see her for the first time. Skye didn't notice him, and everyone held their breath to see what he would do. Skye's dance surprised them, but the thought of Legolas dancing had them floored. He walked up behind her and caught her hands and danced with her in perfect time. She suddenly stopped, looked and then backed away in surprise. It was quite the display of acting as Legolas assured her he was not there to harm her. He asked her to dance, and she timidly accepted. Then everyone gasped when he caught her in a lift and then dipped her suddenly. Jamie started to sing again, a little brighter this time and Legolas and Skye went all out in their dance.
Aragorn couldn't believe it. He'd never seen his friend do anything like that in all his life. It was obvious that he loved Skye very much. Gimli just stared in shock. He'd been all wrong about Skye. There was nothing to do with Miranda in that relationship, that was obvious. He owed Legolas an apology.
With the dance concluded, Legolas and Skye gave a bow and the room erupted in cheers and applause. Legolas blushed, and backed away, leaving Skye standing alone in the middle of the room. She looked around at the crowd and slowly smiled. Finally, she was the prima ballerina, and she'd never been so happy. They accepted her, and she finally felt at home. She bowed again and tried to return to her seat but Legolas shook his head and pointed to the floor.
"Give us another," he said.
Skye shook her head but the crowd kept shouting, "More."
Skye looked to Jamie who shrugged. "What do you want to do?" Jamie asked.
Skye pondered it a moment and then smiled, "You mind singing acapella?"
"No."
"How about True Colors by Cyndi Lauper?" Skye suggested.
Jamie smiled and nodded. She stepped out of the way and started to sing. Skye danced her heart out for that song, and that was her encore. The ballet performances turned out to be the talk of the festival, and Skye was not only accepted, but appreciated by the Elves. Legolas was so proud of her, and no one had anything negative to say about his performance either.
As the guests finally started to leave, the cleanup began. Lyneya felt bone weary from the long day, and Alcon helped her to her feet. He glanced at his son who was still in the company of Grayson. He sighed, and realized it was comforting to have another guardian watching over him sometimes. Lyneya took in a sharp breath and Alcon looked at her with concern.
"Lyneya?" he asked.
"Alcon, I think you should find Eruanna…" she said breathlessly.
Alcon wordlessly lifted her into his arms and called Godwin over. "Son, go find Eruanna."
Godwin's eyes were huge, "Lyneya… are you alright?"
Alcon's response was harsher than he meant it to be, "Go!"
Godwin ran across the hall in full blown panic. He found the midwife quickly and brought her back to where Alcon sat cradling his wife.
"Ah, I see that it is time. Take her home, Alcon, I will follow," Eruanna said.
It was early morning, shortly before sunrise and Alcon's small house was full of family. Everyone was there, Thelyn and Jamie, Failon and Silivren, and even Aragorn. Alcon paced the floor nervously but halted at the sound of an infant's cry. He stood staring at his bedroom door and waited, holding his breath. No answer came right away, and he paled. Godwin went to stand with him and he took his father's hand and waited. Lyneya's cries of pain resumed and then the door opened just enough for Silivren to stick her head out.
"It's a girl, she's fine," she said quickly. "I'll let you know how the second child is in a moment…" And then she closed the door again.
Alcon felt light headed and managed to sit down.
"A girl!" Thelyn said brightly.
"A second one?" Alcon asked weakly.
The cry came, and everyone waited. Silivren emerged from the bedroom with a big smile, "Another girl, identical. Go on in, Alcon."
Alcon went to the door and paused a moment. He turned to Godwin, "Come, let's meet our new arrivals together, son."
Godwin smiled and went with him. Eruanna and Jamie were straightening up the bed and gathering the linens on their way out. Lyneya lay in the center of the bed with her arms wrapped around a baby on each side. She looked exhausted, but happy.
"You look beautiful," Alcon said to her. "Did everything go alright?"
"Normal, just doubled. I'm tired, but we're all healthy," Lyneya said.
Godwin stared at the babies in awe. "What are you going to name them?"
Lyneya looked up at Alcon who bent down and took the nearest daughter in his arms. He stared at her in wonder and finally smiled and said, "This one is Ára… dawn." He looked at the other and added, "And she shall be Líre… Song."
Lyneya smiled at the names but pointed out a serious problem. "And how will we keep them straight?"
Godwin smirked, "Tie a ribbon with their names on them around their ankles."
Alcon laughed, "That's my boy. You'll be a great big brother."
Godwin blushed, but this would take some getting used to. Now that Alcon had his own children, things could change. He wondered if Alcon would still endure all of the trouble having the future Lord of Rhûn in the house caused. Godwin knew his presence was disruptive. Would Alcon choose his daughters over his adopted son?
Alcon brought his daughters out to show them off, and then everyone left. Though it was morning, Alcon and his family went to bed to rest. The cradle he'd had made was large enough for both girls for the moment, but soon it wouldn't be. He'd have to order another right away. He sent Godwin to bed to rest and realized he had no guest room in his small house.
Grayson immediately put his mind at ease. "Go rest, I am accustomed to sleeping on the ground and need few comforts. We can worry about accommodations later."
Alcon nodded and returned to his wife.
Grayson made himself a bed on the floor outside Godwin's room. It had been an eventful night. He was now a member of this household, though merely a tolerated one. He would find a way to make it work. He'd made a promise to the king, and he would not break it. But even more importantly than that, he liked Godwin. At the feast he'd been filled in on all the details of the boy's heritage, and the family situation. He admired Alcon for adopting Godwin, but the task of preparing a child to rule his own country was a big one. They needed his help whether they knew it or not. He hoped that he would eventually be accepted here, and possibly even become friends.