For Disclaimer view Chapter 1.

For my readers: This is partly a Tenth Walker story, sorry for those who of you who do not like that, but hopefully you will still continue reading this. Thank you and Enjoy! :o)

Legolas is here? Aurel wondered... why had the blonde elf caused such a stir in her? Why had no one alerted her of this? She began to remember her meeting with him at the spring festivities in Mirkwood..

She was walking out of the hall where the dancing was being held. It was so crowded in there, she needed to leave. Aurel had not noticed that Legolas had been watching her all night, watching her avoid eye contact with anyone, and refuse every invitation to dance, even his own. She looked as if she was suffocating with all the attention she was getting, she held her elven calm and yet still she made sure no one noticed when she sneaked away. Legolas had followed her, she was walking towards the trees, no where for a lady to be out on her own. He had followed her for quite some distance before losing her. He was surprised he had lost her, amongst the trees she had disappeared. Legolas stood still for a moment and tuned into his hearing. Suddenly his ears went alert and he froze. There was something sharp poking him at the back of his neck.

Why do you follow me? asked Aurel forcefully.

Legolas relaxed, but said nothing. She had gotten the best of him, his pride was hurt, that she had managed to put him into such a comprising position was a new experience for him.

Speak now or I will be forced to make you speak! She said sticking the dagger a little more forcefully.

Legolas raised his eyebrows, not that she could see. Am I not allowed to walk in these woods? The arrogance apparent in his voice.

Not when you are following me, Prince. She answered putting her dagger away. Turn around. She said. I have put my weapon away.

He turned around. She smiled. Do you always walk alone in the woods alone...unprepared, unprotected?

Mocking me?, Lady,. And I could ask you the same.

Could you? Yet I was not the one caught off-guard! She started to laugh.

Legolas's anger subsided at the sound of her laughter. He smiled.

You are much more handsome when you smile, my lord. She said bowing her head in respect.

Please, no need for formalities, not from one such as you. Call me Legolas.

Well met Legolas, then call me Aurel.

Lady Aurel? From the house of Elrond?

Aurel looked at him with a curious smile and nodded her head.

I should have seen the resemblance! Forgive me if I was rude.

She only shrugged her shoulders smiling and said. Come, let us watch the sunset. She climbed up the nearest tree.... I hate these dresses, so difficult to climb in... she grumbled to herself while climbing.

Legolas smiled to himself and he began to climb as well. By the time he reached her, she had begun to sing, and he gladly joined her.

Arwen abruptly came into her room. It startled Aurel out of her thoughts. She turned around to face her. Much has happened while you were on patrol, little one. She helped her get ready for her bath. Ada would like to have a word with you With all the fussing about and picking things up on the floor, Arwen had not noticed the blood on Aurel's arm. . Aurel! You are bleeding!

Aurel smiled. It was nothing, but Arwen took it as something grievous as always. You really worry me little one, the blade could have been poisoned, why did you not say anything? Arwen cringed at the words she used.

Aurel put a hand on her shoulder telling her it was alright. Arwen calmed down. As I was saying before. Much has happened, it will all be explained later on, but for now we must get you cleaned up and ready. Ada would like you to attend tonight's feast, and I have a surprise for you, something that I know will bring joy to your heart.

She gave her a questioning look.. Alright, would you like the surprise now? Aurel nodded anxiously, she loved surprises.

You may come in now! said Arwen in a loud voice. Aurel was confused. But when the door opened she noticed a familiar hand. She stood up immediately and ran to the door and even before the person could walk fully she had tumbled on top of him and on the marble ground. She smiled fervently, it was if her heart were to burst.

You are going to kill me Aurel! said Aragorn laughing. She noticed how inappropriate the gesture was, since she was in almost little clothing, and stood up, offering him a hand. Still as strong as ever little one. said Aragorn smiling and blushing noticing her lack of clothes.

Now she embraced him like the brother he was. It had brought much happiness to see Elladan and Elrohir, but to see Estel...he was like a son to her, she had raised him and loved him accordingly so. She had not seen him for three years, which is nothing in elven time, but for the heart a day away can seem like an eternity.

I knew this would bring a smile to your face. said Arwen. Now, you must still take a bath, for you stink of orc, like Estel here, you rangers should clean yourselves more often! laughing along with Aragorn.

Aurel nodded a yes and embraced her sister as a thank you. Arwen motioned for Aurel to get into the bath... We will return shortly, unless, that is, you would like to help me? asked Arwen to Aragorn. She knew how shy he was, for he was still not accustomed to Elves and their disregard for nudity.

I think I will wait here. said Aragorn clearing his throat. I would be more of a nuisance than help. Do not worry. He smiled as Arwen walked away.

After a little time, Aurel was done. Though now she was wearing a dress and it was sleeveless and of a light blue colour, the wound around her arm was already healing.

You were hurt? How so? asked Aragorn noticing the wound on Aurel. He went to go examine it but Aurel playfully slapped his hand away. Aurel looked at Estel once more. She put her hand up to his face and caressed it.

I will leave you two at peace. Do not forget that we have important visitors to greet tonight. said Arwen exiting the door touching Aragorn's hand giving a smile. Aragorn's heart beat faster and he smiled back. Aurel knew they had been lovers for quite some time, it must have been hard to keep the secret from Lord Elrond at first. But Elrond knew the hearts of his children, and they could not hide it from him.

Aurel smiled. It lightened her heart to see the love that two of the dearest to her shared.

Would you like to walk with me in the Gardens? asked Aragorn.

She nodded as he extended his hand and they walked outside her bedroom doors. Another beautiful day. The sun did not shine as brightly as before, noted Aurel. Nevertheless, she was with her Estel, and she was happy.

Arwen has told me much about your adventures. said Aragorn, stopping in the gardens and at a bench. Shall we sit? He said with a motion of his hand.

Gracefully Aurel sat down. I noticed the state you came in today after patrolling, was your hunt successful? asked Aragorn.

Where is this leading Estel?

Arwen has mentioned other things besides your adventures. He held her hand and felt that it's touch was cold, no longer warm as it was when she had caressed his face.

There was a time when you were better Sister, there was a time where we saw light always in your eyes, but now it seems that they are clouded once more, why?

Aurel stood and started to walk away. No, Aurel, do not hide from me. said Aragorn pulling her back to him. Not from me. Aurel pulled her arm away with a hurt look on her face.

Legolas had been walking down the halls when he noticed Aragorn speaking to someone else. There was sorrow in his voice and that troubled him. It was not as if he intentionally eavesdropped, but his elven ears could not help it.

I am sorry Aurel. Did I hurt you? He asked.

She did not change the expression in her eyes, nor the way she stood.

Why do you look at me this way, a moment ago you were happy to see me and now you look as if you are afraid of me? Listen to me, I may only human, but I feel your pain Aurel, I feel the hurt, surely you know how much it hurts for your family to see you fading.

She is fading? thought Legolas.

Let yourself heal Little one. There is no shame in what happened. said Aragorn holding on to her hand, it was a bit warmer. He pulled her in and kissed her on the forehead. Aurel pulled away, a disturbing feeling had come to her ever since Aragorn had held on to her arm, at first she thought it was just her emotions, but it was something else. Someone had been watching, she looked up to find a set of piercing blue eyes staring right at her.

Legolas noticed that she had noticed him and started to continue walking. Aragorn also looked up and saw Legolas. For some reason Aragorn smiled. I will go and talk to him Aurel. I am sure he heard nothing. With that Aragorn went sprinting after Legolas, as Aurel sat back on the bench.

said Aragorn catching up to him.

Legolas gave a weary smile. Estel. I am sorry for my intrusion.

No worries my friend. said Aragorn smiling once more.

Both kept walking.

So that is what the Lady Aurel looks like in appropriate attire. said Legolas, wanting to discuss her.

You have met before? asked Aragorn in surprise.

Yes, a very long time ago, I had come to think it was just a dream. said Legolas.

Aragorn looked at him then straight on, Well come now Legolas....I have lived amongst elves all my life and still am not used to their play with words, tell me, when have you seen Aurel before?

When I arrived today I noticed an elven guard staring at me. He said changing the subject.

Elven guards do not stare! said Aragorn laughing.

Yes that is what I thought, but it was no elven guard, it was the Lady. said Legolas.

Why would she be staring at you? asked Aragorn, a tinge of jealousy overcame him, but he enjoyed playing with Legolas.

I know not. said Legolas blushing.

Never have I seen your emotions betray you Legolas. said Aragorn.

I would like to learn more about her, for I get a disturbing feeling.

Aragorn held his hands behind his back. A disturbing feeling?

Yes. She is fading is she not? asked Legolas.

Aragorn's face now saddened, So you heard.

Legolas's face did not reveal his embarrassment. Yes. I did.

Why this feeling? If you have not seen her for such a long time? asked Aragorn.

This feeling is one I have only felt in dreams. said Legolas almost whispering, Dreams that I do not dare speak of for they leave me with great sadness.

Aragorn remained silent.

Why does she suffer? asked Legolas

I am sorry my friend. For I fear that if I speak of that, that I too while be overcome with sadness. Perhaps if you wish to learn more about her you can speak to Lord Elrond.

That would be forward of me. said Legolas. I would not dare to want to bring up this matter with Lord Elrond.

I would like to tell you everything about her, but I came into her life when the grief had already taken her. Perhaps Arwen? Or her brothers. You are good friends with them, I am surprised they have not spoken of Aurel to you for it greatly troubles them.

They have spoken of her before. Never did they mention that she was dying.

Aragorn closed his eyes when he said that, Legolas sensed his pain, but remained silent.

I cannot speak of this any longer, I must go, but I will see you tonight. Everyone will be formally introduced, you may have a chance to speak to my sister then. said Aragorn leaving Legolas standing there in bewilderment.

The night proceeded accordingly. Arwen entered the dining hall and everyone stared in awe, she glowed and they could not help but let their eyes be filled by her and smile. Aurel walked in a few moments later, hoping that her sister would be enough distraction for her to peacefully pass by and sit down. Both sisters smiled happily as everyone stood, and they took their place amongst their father, Lord Elrond, and sat. So the feasting began, as did everyone's chattering, Aurel began to feel the uneasiness in her, and she knew who caused it, it was Legolas. Legolas though very far seated from Aurel, also felt the same. She tried to catch another glimpse of him and found that he was already staring at her with a frown. She cast her gaze away and tried to distract herself by listening in on the conversation between her brothers and some cute hobbits that had come upon Imladris.

who are they? Aurel wondered.

Now formal introductions were being made. As everyone began to give their names to Lord Elrond and those seated around him. First it was Boromir, steward of Gondor, he stood and introduced himself, and Aurel could not help but stare at him, for he looked almost petrified, though he tried to hide it. As Boromir spoke, he noticed how intently Aurel was staring at him. They both had the same look in their eyes, a look of great sadness. Aurel lowered her gaze, as Boromir finished his speech and bowed. When he straightened from his bow, he noticed Aurel once more, this time focusing on the intricate lining of scars around her neck. As if sensing his curiousity, she only smiled at him, and he gave a weak smile in return before heading back to his seat. The second one to stand was Prince Legolas, and his companions from Mirkwood. He walked slowly, trying to avoid eye contact with anyone but Lord Elrond. But he could not help it, as he began to approach her, he first noticed her eyes. Her silvery blue eyes. A stream of pain washed over him as his memories flashed in his mind, why did those eyes haunt him? His eyes closed for a second and remembered those eyes from his dreams.

Prince Legolas, you look as if you are in pain? Are you well? asked Lord Elrond.

Aurel noticed the change in him and stood in concern, she was worried. Legolas opened his eyes and when he did, he noticed the scar, from under her ear to the base of her neck and he stepped back in complete shock, stumbling almost into his companions, still staring at her.

Aragorn then approached, Legolas? What is wrong?. He said with a concerned look in his eyes.

Legolas looked at Aragorn, My dreams. It was her. was all he managed to mumble before walking abruptly out of the dining hall.

Aragorn did not understand at first, then he looked at Aurel, wide-eyed, she looked confused. I will go after him. He is not himself tonight. said Aragorn, and quickly rushed after Legolas. Lord Elrond paid no attention to what had just happened, casting it away easily, he began to motion for others to continue introducing themselves. Aurel sat back down slowly.

The uneasiness left her, she sighed a breath of relief. She returned her attention back to the little hobbits that were present. Many of them seemed to be surrounding Arwen, asking a million questions, they were to the like of children. Her focus went to the one hobbit who seemed to be the less excited. She interrupted the questions of the excited ones and walked towards him. He looked up at her, and she knelt in front of him. She put her hand up to his chest and felt this overwhelming surge of power. She looked at her trembling hand and then looked into the eyes of this hobbit. So Bright, so clouded, so alone. She felt for him. She placed both hands on his face and kissed his forehead. Frodo. That was his name. She did not need formal introductions, for she knew of this Hobbit's perilous task.

Whispered Frodo.

She slowly nodded her head. He smiled and he went to touch her face. Her skin was as soft as silk, never had he beheld something so beautiful, as he touched her face she closed her eyes and felt what he felt. She brought a calm to his soul that he had not felt in a long while. It was good that he had been brought to Imladris. She stood up and put a hand over her heart, as did Frodo and went back to her Father's side. Lord Elrond had not paid attention to the informal greeting they had had, but Gandalf did. When Aurel had approached Frodo an immediate light surrounded him and the burning in Frodo's heart for the ring had been subdued. This interested Gandalf very much.

((((((
Legolas had climbed up a tree in one of the gardens. He needed fresh air. To be in the trees again. Inside the dining hall he felt as everything was collasping on him. Sitting in the tree reminded him of when he had first met Aurel.

After the sun had set and the moon was shining, they sat in that tree for hours, staring at the stars and moon. Why is this the first time I have ever met you Aurel?

I am not one to attend these festivities. My brothers forced me to come along with them before I leave, I could not refuse them. She giggled.



To Lothlorien, with my mother. I have not been there for years and my grandmother beckons me to come and learn from her. Her tone had now turned serious. She looked sad for a moment then smiled once more, You attend these sort of things often do you?

Legolas turned away to look at the moon. Yes. As boring as they are. My father has requested that I start looking for a wife.

A perilous task indeed. My heart goes out to thee. Good luck.

Legolas laughed. Thank you. Though I do not think I will look for a wife just yet, my father can wait.

I am sure there are plenty of elven-maidens who will be disappointed by your decision. She smirked.

You make a mock of me once more Lady, it does not go unnoticed! He said smirking back.

Aurel laughed. It is easy to wound your pride, my prince. It was just a friendly jest.

And you? You are surely of age, do you have many suitors? Legolas liked her.

I hope I do not. She said. I am not suited for marriage. I would much rather not.

Not suited for marriage, why do you say that? asked Legolas.

Because I much rather prefer my independence...and the merrymaking, committing yourself to one other and no one else...I am not suited for that sort of thing yet. No elf would accept me for who I am.

That is not true. I am an elf. and I accept you for who you are.

You have only known of me for a couple of hours. Spending more time with me would surely change your opinion.

I think not. said Legolas.

Matters not. Unless you plan on chasing me Prince. teased Aurel.

And if the thought crossed my mind?

I would have to warn you.



Never being able to catch me. said Aurel.

Both of them kept quiet for a moment. Aurel interrupted the silence. A smile crept up, I am sure the merrymaking has begun by now....I can hear the singing...I cannot resist it...will you come with? She asked beginning to get up so as to climb down.

No, I think I will stay here.

Aurel was surprised. Well then, Legolas, Prince, It was my utmost pleasure to be able to share this time with you. I will never forget it. We will have to meet more often, for I have found a kindred spirit in you, I wish not to lose that..

said Legolas, impulsively leaning into her and kissing her softly on the lips. She lost her balance in the surprise of the kiss and fell. Legolas tried to get a grasp of her as he leapt down the tree to where she was laying. When he finally knelt by her, his heart drowned in worry , She was motionless...His hands trembled as he tried to turn her over. Before any more could be done, she suddenly leapt on him and began to laugh.

I told you, you will never be able to catch me!

Legolas began to laugh in relief of his worry for her safety. Their laughing could be heard throughout the woods.

What in the name of the Valar is going on here?! yelled a voice.

Aurel and Legolas stopped their laughing.

She frowned. Go away Elrohir.

Get off of the prince, sister. He said in a commanding tone.

She got off of Legolas.

It was innocent fun, Elrohir, though it looks otherwise, I assure you it was not. said Legolas standing up.

You are very lucky that it was I that found you and not Ada, For she is yet a child compared to you Legolas. he replied. Then he smiled. Come now Aurel. He said holding his hand out.

Ha! A child compared to him?, he is only 626 years older than me, I am of age and a child no longer, compared to no one. said Aurel, keeping her place next to Legolas.

How did you know how old I was? asked Legolas smirking.

Will you not come to me little one? said Elrohir keeping his hand outstretched for her, interrupting them once more.

Aurel sighed. He is the one who will always see me as a child. Even my adar does not anymore. She said quietly to Legolas. Legolas only smiled and crossed his arms in amusement of the situation.

He is waiting for you. said Legolas amused.

She looked back at her brother then Aurel turned to face Legolas. Do not forget me. Come and visit me in Lothlorien! She smiled and kissed him on the cheek. She walked back slowly to her brother. Elrohir looked at Legolas and smiled before giving his attention to Aurel, tenderly grabbing hold of her hand, Legolas put his hand to his heart, a sign of goodbye amongst the elves, he watched them fade into the darkness and then climbed back up to the tree. Wondering how she knew how old he was, he was curious to know how much more she knew of him and why, and how...he would have to go visit her soon. But he never did go visit her...she never reached Lothlorien.

He heard a voice call out for him. It was Aragorn. He looked down and frowned, jumping down.

Ah Legolas. said Aragorn. After the spectacle you made of yourself today, I do not know if Aurel will even consider listening to you. Why did you back away from her so?

Legolas, I meant no disrespect. he said sharply. I have not seen her for hundreds of years and she has changed much.. I have been to Imladris many times, yet never have I seen her. said Legolas in a frustrated tone.

She is not one who likes to be seen. She prefers to be out patrolling, and to stay away from Elrond's diplomatic encounters, that is the way she has always been, it does not surprise me that you two have not crossed paths in your recent visits, she would not be one to go and greet royalty such as yourself.. said Aragorn. Now what is the cause for such questions?

It was an orc attack that caused that scar on her neck. He said looking at him, he looked angry almost.

Aragorn was not surprised at his comment. He said nothing.

Am I to assume that I am correct? asked Legolas.

Yes. It was an orc attack that caused that scar on her neck, she was not intended to survive from that.

It has been a very difficult task for me to find out exactly how things occured, no one speaks of it, none.

Yes. If that had happened to your family would you want to speak of it? said Aragorn sitting down a large stone next to him. The attack on Lady Celebrian was detestable. .Aurel was left to die.

Lady Celebrian.... Both? said Legolas, until then he had not thought that Aurel had also lost her mother that day.

Yes. Both. And a whole party of Elven guards. said Aragorn.

He said more to himself than Aragorn.

The orcs greatly outnumbered them. That is how. Aragorn stood up now. I do not think it wise to bring up things such as these, especially here and now. Now tell me, why do you seem so disturbed?

Because I am. For the past 500 years I have had the same dream over and over. I dream of an Elleth with silvery blue eyes..who has her throat cut open by an orc. I feel this elleth's pain. I have ever since I dreamt of it. said Legolas. He looked away up to the trees, up beyond the trees to the stars. I have prayed to the Valar to help me.

You think it is Aurel who you dream of? said Aragorn. Not surprised by any of this, he remained calm as if expecting what Legolas had said.

I know it is she I dream of. Her eyes. That scar. The feeling I get when in her presence. There is no other explanation.

Why would you dream of her? Asked Aragorn.

Legolas had no answer and his expression became more saddenned.

Perhaps friend, if you would not back away from her so abruptly the disturbing feeling you get when in her presence would ease. You should try and explain yourself to her.

I cannot. The closer I am, the more pain I feel. And for some reason, I sense that it is the same for her.

Aragorn sighed and put his hand on Legolas's shoulder. Get some rest Legolas. We have a council meeting early in the morning that we cannot miss. Sleep well. He began to walk away.

said Legolas.

Aragorn stopped but did not turn to face him.

How did they find her after the attack?

Aragorn shuddered to think of Aurel in that condition. They did not find her. She found them. No one understands how she survived. He continued to walk away.

He took Aragorn's suggestion to heart. He did need some rest. The day had been a day of many discoveries. He only hoped that now that he knew what the source of the dream was that it was a cause to the end.