FIRST KNIGHT BY ASHA DREAMWEAVER
Disclaimer: I own nothing but the plot.
Summary: BtVS/LotR. Buffy gets sent to Middle Earth to help bring down Sauron. Her duty, like the Istari, is not to confront Sauron directly but to help those fated to face him bring him down. More specifically she's to help the King of Gondor get on his throne. Will Arwen and Aragorn's love stand against the shadow? Will Legolas be able to keep a secret, that if revealed, could shatter the lives of those he cares for? Will Buffy be able to fulfil her duty? Will Denethor be able to put aside his animosity for the man who would supplant him? Will the ringbearer reach Mount Doom, or will he be cut down before he reaches his goal? And will Boromir resist the lure of the ring?
Author's notes: Thanks to all those who have voted for me so far in the MPA awards! A million thanks go out to you! And your Aragorn and Legolas plushies are en route!
Review responses:
Alliana Greenleaf Halliwe - I understand Tolkien's views but I do believe it is another dimension. After all, if the Valar had been in the world during WWII, why wouldn't they have stopped Hitler? They did send emissaries to fight Sauron.
Andrea35 - Thanks, and I hope your computer problems end soon! Yes, Galadriel all but tells him, but hey, they do say love is blind. In Aragorn's case, that would equate really deep love! Good call on the Éowyn thing! About the prophecy, I'd never actually considered that!
Anna - Thanks a lot! And the Balrog, it ain't dead. Just mad. Very, very mad. Watch that space…. Yes, the Lady of the Wood is trying to knock some sense into her granddaughter's fiancé, and failing. Thanks for all your comments! :)
Arye - Thanks! New readers are always welcome!
Boo - The Ring of Adamant was another name for Nenya. Gee, I hope you're not too drugged up!
catrina of the rose - I considered it, but thought it would be way too awkward. Something of the same ilk does come up in this chapter though.
Donna8 - As Joss Whedon said, 'A happy Buffy is a boring Buffy'. I personally don't agree but it's a good quote! And Aragorn is gonna put himself in his place in this chapter!
Draco's Slytherin Vampiress - I had some unexpected free time… thanks for your remarks, and yes, I'm making it really hard for Buffy!
DragonStar - She didn't slay the Balrog…
FallenStar2 - Thanks for reviewing! Yes, love is blind. A well used phrase in this story but he'll wise up soon enough. And Denethor may have been a future steward, but could you imagine Buffy married to him? She'd kill him within a week. And I hate storms too. Or when the site eats my reviews. Very annoying to try to remember exactly what you said first time round!
goldenshadows - thank! Er, something a little bigger than Galadriel's telling off I'm afraid. And Buffy will be walking into a nightmare…..
Haley - Thanks, the reason I include the explanations at the bottom of my chapters is to facilitate readers who aren't familiar with Tolkien's less well known work with regards to LotR, even though it may seem unnecessary to people who know already! And running is probably a very good idea….
Lady of the Wood - the suspense is killing everyone I think! Thanks for your vote! All is appreciated!
mari - Really? And how would you suggest I word it? Should I be warning about heart attacks or sudden urges to kill the author?
Mary4angelus - thanks for your vote and your comments!
MiShA - I'm always happy to get new readers! And thank you for your vote! Sorry, but no scoobies will be cropping up in this fic, I am working on another one, however, that may include Angelus.
Moonbunny77 - I totally get what you're saying, but by this chapter Buffy's been in ME for thirty years…. Whoa! Yeah, Frodo got Kingsfoil but Buffy's got Aragorn and Slayer healing…
N/A - Thanks! Your vote is definitely welcome! I am so getting competitive now!
Pamie884 - Thanks! Yes, the cracks will show. Some in this chapter actually!
Phoenix83ad - definitely a major dolt. And yes about the Balrog…. I've got plans for that critter….
polgara-5 - Trouble? Following them? More like being carried in their packs! And thanks!
Restive Nature - Glad to hear you're okay! And you can be little miss cool with the sunglasses! :) awww, thanks a lot! I do see Galadriel as flawed, she's just better at hiding them than most, and as the oldest of the rebellious Noldor left in ME, she's definitely had enough time to perfect doing just that! And another thanks for the canon comment. I cannot claim to know anything next to everything about it so it does involve research, but then again, according to the History of ME series of books, even Tolkien himself got confused about what was canon and what wasn't! Thanks for all your lovely encouraging comments! I always look forward to your reviews! So thanks again!
Shadow Master - Thanks a bunch! Yeah, I think Elrond would have to agree that they must be cursed! Ah yes, the Balrog, but I never said it died, now did I? And as I already told you, the bond is meant to be vague and undefined. It makes it so much easer to fit it in that way. And in the last chapter, Aragorn let Buffy share his strength. Buffy did the same for him when he was almost assassinated in Gondor, so it's not really new. Your ideas are cool though, but the bond is erratic as it's not fully formed yet! Sadly, there will be no actual chapter with Buffy in the Shire for this fic. And I think that the Hobbits are the only people who actually could call her tall.
ShawThang - thanks a bunch! And how exactly would Buffy go on strike? Let the monsters kill her? I think it's a bit of an impossibility! Yeah, I was thinking of Indiana Jones when I wrote that part too! I mean, crawling through caves, getting chased by baddies, treasure, booby traps, fight scenes… all trademarks of those movies! I half-made up the ghost but I based it on the fact that the Barrow-downs near the Shire have some lovely malevolent ghosts lurking about. So I put one into the back history of Moria! And as for possessing Buffy, it was Galadriel who was channelling someone from Aman. An unknown someone, but a someone. Balrogs are not that easy to kill, as Buffy will find out to her detriment later. But for now, she's got a ton of bragging material to torment poor Glorfindel with! And your review was in no way boring! I love long reviews!
Slayergirl - Thanks! I honestly don't know. An idea hits, I go with it and I see if I can turn it into a fic.
Sparky24 - yes, Buffy is getting beaten up every which way! And Aragorn's not so much dumb as clueless! No, the full Nine have been awake for quite a while. Thanks for reviewing!
Star - yeah, but things get slightly lighter in this chapter! Yeah, as I've said already, love is blind. And when he finally figures out what Galadriel was alluding to, he'll be kicking himself! Yes, plenty of twins…. And company…..
Wild320 - We are talking about Aragorn here aren't we? Aragorn doesn't do 'waking up'.
Xxx - sure, I'll put them at the bottom of this chapter!
And major thanks to:
Batgirl Beyond, Braindead, gaul1, Jania, Malfeus, Ms8309, Night-Owl123,
CHAPTER NINETEEN: THE SPIRIT OF A SLAYER
…
"A true friend does not stab you in the back, but in the front."
- unknown
….
Edoras, Rohan, 3003 TA.
"The first rule to kicking a guy's ass is making sure they know who's boss," Buffy lectured authoritively to her avid charge, "You see, all these little tough guys see a girl and go 'oooh! Damsel in distress! Must rescue! Or kill!' - that depends on what you're fighting. But if you can annoy them while you're beating them up, you get bonus points."
Éowyn nodded at her favourite tutor; the young girl idolised the blonde woman. Elliandre was the only Shield-maiden to actually ride with the Rohirrim, and had come by great renown for her prowess. She was what Éowyn dreamed of being; someone unfettered by the constraints that were placed on many other women, and someone who both brooked no fools, and was respected for doing so.
Éowyn had so long dreamed of being a Shield-maiden and when she had been deemed old enough to begin training, it had been to her joy that Elliandre had been assigned as her trainer.
Buffy urged her to her feet, handing her a wooden practice sword, "Come on, time to see how you're getting on with the pointy thing."
What followed was a sparring session that left Éowyn breathless and Buffy not even winded, but Elliandre was smiling, and that made Éowyn feel somewhat better. "You're really improving," Buffy said cheerfully, "What have you been doing? Beating on that brother of yours I hope?"
Éowyn smiled back, "Nay, Éomer would not be seen on the training fields with me if he can help it," she answered, feeling only some slight regret that she did not get the chance to practice with her older brother.
But Elliandre only nodded knowingly, "Never underestimate the male ego," the warrior said, "Men can have such big heads that it's surprising that they are able to fit through doors."
Éowyn giggled at Buffy's comments, an image of her uncle Théoden King in such a position being too funny for words. "Elliandre," she began, turning serious again, "I have heard tales about you and I wish to know are they truth or merely lies."
Buffy stopped putting away the practice swords and turned to face her spunky eight year old charge. "Dare I even ask what stories? 'Cos I really didn't mean to knock down that wall. It just…fell over."
"The ones that say that you have passed through Dwimordene, and that that is why you have been beaten by no man in combat." Éowyn said, big blue eyes following Buffy's form as she paced.
Buffy sat down beside Éowyn, and after a moment's silence, began to speak, "Yes, I have passed through Dwimordene, or the Golden Wood as it is really known, and the Lady that lives there isn't evil, insane or the wicked witch of the west, despite whatever you may have heard. You shouldn't believe those tales Éowyn; you're a daughter of kings, and you have to know more than everyone else. It also works really well for telling people off when they're wrong and you're right."
"But they say the Lady changed you!" Éowyn said furtively, studiously not meeting Buffy's eyes, but her head snapped up when Buffy only laughed.
"Listen here, my little buddy, I went into the Golden Wood already strong. Trust me, the Lady of that Wood, hasn't altered me in any way or turned me into a toad yet. Men just like making stories up so that they don't feel so bad when I kick thier ass. But as a matter of curiosity, who started these lovely little rumours?" she asked, her tone hardening as she spoke.
"That counsellor Gríma," Éowyn answered, "He does not like you and often speaks ill of you to my uncle."
Buffy nodded grimly, "Listen to me Éowyn, for I have already warned your brother on this matter. Stay away from Gríma! The man is a snake, cheat and a liar, and he really doesn't like me. Because of that, I get the feeling that I'm not going to be in Rohan forever, Éowyn, and I wouldn't urge you to turn your back on that little rodent for a second. I don't know what his purpose is, but whatever it is, it isn't good. Never trust a word he says! And never be alone with him if you can help it!"
"But my uncle the King trusts him, and he rises ever higher in his favour," Éowyn said, wholeheartedly believing her teacher. She herself had never liked Gríma, and she did not doubt Elliandre's word for a moment.
"Snakes often like to slither their slimy little butts into high places," Buffy said, "And Gríma is a slime-ball if I ever saw one! Beware of him, Éowyn. I really do fear for you."
"I am a Shield-maiden of the House of Eorl!" Éowyn declared proudly, "I fear him not! And if he seeks to harm me, I shall show him my steel!"
Her idol smiled at her, but it was a sad smile, "Not everything can be solved with steel Éowyn, my little spitfire, and sometimes it's best not to even try. I'm only telling you to be on your guard, not to chase him about Meduseld with your sword!"
"But such a man should not be allowed to poison my uncle's ears!" Éowyn protested.
Buffy grasped her shoulder, and turned the child to face her, "But while he has the ear of the king, there is nothing anybody can do without proof. You know, innocent until proven guilty and all that jazz. Promise me you're not going to do anything stupid."
Éowyn pouted but eventually gave in, "I promise," she said sourly, "But I still want to hit him."
"So do a lot of people, spitfire, but anyone who does is likely to be thrown in the King's dungeons. Which I might add, are not the most comfortable place to spend time in."
"But then what am I to do?" Éowyn asked.
Buffy hugged the little girl, and answered her softly, "Watch, listen and learn, Éowyn, and wait for the moment to pounce. Just remember that when it comes down to it, you're smarter than him. You'll have the last laugh eventually."
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Meduseld, Edoras, Rohan, 3004 TA.
"You would believe Gríma Wormtongue's word over mine?!" Buffy cried in outrage, rounding on Théoden and resisting the urge to strangle the skulking little worm that was his shadow.
"I will have no foul witch in my country!" Théoden shouted back, angry at her for her supposed deception, and angry with himself for falling for it.
"Witch! Hello, I am so not one! But that little dirtbag in the corner is a spy for someone and is not exactly looking out for your best interests because he's a lying, cheating, sneaking piece of scum!" Buffy all but snarled.
"Do not try to spew any more of your lies Elliandre!" Théoden said, "You, who has not aged a day since I met you?! No, there could be no better proof of your lies!"
"Not all that is withered is lost, Théoden," Buffy said with icy composure, "And there are many more things in this world than you have any comprehension of!"
"Do not dare to gainsay me Elliandre! My word is law here! I am king! You will obey me!"
"Why? I don't tend to obey orders very well anyway, especially not from stuffy, lying, gullible, cold-hearted bossy-boots like you! Rohan's King is about as effective as an orc when it comes to watching out for the tricks of the Enemy!"
"Spoken from one of the Enemy's servants, that is rich insult indeed!" Théoden scoffed, "You are banished from these courts and from my lands, Elliandre, under pain of death. Do not make me throw you out of here!"
"As if you could!" Buffy sneered scornfully, "But do not worry Théoden, I'll go and you can get on with pulling the wool over your eyes all that you damn well please! But mark my words, you'll bring nothing but pain and death to the Riddermark! And your little worm will cheerfully lead you to it!"
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As she gathered her things in a state of simmering fury, Éowyn ran into her room, tears streaming down her face. "Oh Elliandre! Tell me it is not so! Tell me uncle has not banished you!"
Buffy crossed the room to her and shutting the door, enfolded the girl in her arms, "Well, since he's threatening me with death if I don't, I kinda do really have to go. Wormtongue won this round I'm afraid."
"But surely you can disprove his lies!" Éowyn cried, aghast at her only woman friend, and her beloved tutor, and hatred for the dark counsellor welled in her breast.
"I'm sorry, spitfire, but whatever he's done to Théoden, the king doesn't believe me. He believes that little worm now, and I fear that it will only grow worse as time passes. You have to be a big girl now Éowyn, 'cos I won't be here to help you anymore. You have to be strong and not let Wormtongue fool you too. And remember to keep an eye on your brother for me. He's way too hot-headed for his own good in this case."
"But I do not want to be parted from you!" Éowyn exclaimed fervently, "Take me with you, I plead with you Elliandre. My uncle will but cage me here in this court and I would know freedom!"
"Oh, Éowyn!" Buffy said softly, "I'm sorry but I can't! You belong here in Rohan!"
"But I shall not cause you any trouble! I promise! I shall be so very good!"
"Éowyn, it's not that. My life tends to be suck a lot, and there's always lots of nasty stuff thrown in to entertain me. Trust me, Éowyn, it's no place for a child."
"But I am a Shield-maiden!"
"You're still a kid." Buffy said firmly, "And I really am sorry Éowyn, but it's impossible. Considering Théoden thinks I'm all evil, I highly doubt that he'd ever let me walk out of here with you anyway. I have to go, and you're going to be okay without me. After all, you've got Éomer to watch out for you."
"Éomer would treat me as if I were made of glass," Éowyn said, "He will not take my dreams seriously!"
"Then make him take them seriously," Buffy replied, "Just because I'm gone, doesn't mean your dreams are Éowyn. They belong to you. Make them happen."
And with those final words of advice, she slung her bag over her shoulder and made to leave the Mark ere things got even more hostile, leaving a dejected wannabe Shield-maiden in her wake.
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Imladris, 3004 TA. The season of hrívë (winter).
'Twas a subdued and weary slayer that rode into Elrond's vale in the winter of that year. Weary in body and soul, saddened from her parting with the little whirlwind that was Éowyn, and her own deep seated loneliness during the last years of her stay in Rohan, had caught up with her in a big way.
And so she had come to Rivendell, seeking the peace and healing that the beautiful valley offered, and as a place where she didn't have to be the slayer in the years that the shadow was darkening and Sauron's influence was growing stronger.
Arwen was in Lórien when she came to the valley, and not expected back for at least six months, and the twins were out on errantry, hunting the orcs and goblins of the Misty Mountains.
But Elrond, at least, was glad to see her; even if he was concerned at the shadows under her eyes, and her lacklustre attitude. She pretended not to notice his scrutiny, desiring nothing but rest from the cares of the world.
She felt way too much like she had during her last two years in Sunnydale; weary, drained, backed against the wall, and very alone.
She could feel the Shadow gaining in strength, and seldom now was her sleep undisturbed. Dark dreams haunted her sleep, and though she could not discern their meaning, the feelings they induced in her were anything but nice, and what rest she got was sometimes of little use to her.
She was beginning to fear sleeping now; the nightmares that plagued her were even worse than those she had had when the overzealous Willow brought her back from the dead against her will.
But Elrond seemed to know when not to press her, and so kept his silence and let the serenity of his realm replenish her drained spirits. And sneakily conspired to throw her and the single Hobbit in the vale together.
She had never met a Hobbit before, but she had heard tales of this one, Bilbo Baggins from many different sources and with different degrees of feeling: from Gandalf, Aragorn, the twins, Elrond…
But hey, any Hobbit who helped instigate the Battle of Five Armies and got to anger a dragon couldn't be too bad. Bilbo, having only moved to Rivendell permanently in 3002, was also curious about this 'Dagnir' (slayer) he had heard to much about and was forever pestering her with questions.
And so whilst Aragorn roamed the wilds, Legolas defended his wood, and Arwen was abroad visiting her grandparents, Buffy remained in Rivendell, awaiting the day when her skills would be needed again…
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Taur-e-Nelaedelos (Mirkwood), 3005 TA.
As the years passed by, a growing trend could be seen by the close friends of the two warriors; Buffy and Aragorn.
Legolas, for one, kept his peace on the matter; helpless to interfere as his own grief and guilt over his indiscretion against Arwen and Aragorn, made him loathe to criticise Aragorn now.
Also as he was friends with all three involved in this most unusual triangle, he thought that it was better if he stayed well clear, however his heart might bid him otherwise.
But he had the keen sight of his kin, and even in his eagerness to absolve Aragorn, he could not help but wonder. As the years passed, Aragorn ceased to discuss the growing darkness overly much with his betrothed, preferring instead to seek Buffy out in Rivendell, and hearken to her advice.
Legolas had found himself delicately asking why he shut Arwen out so, but Aragorn's response had only been more fodder to increase his confusion. For the ranger had replied why trouble the fair Evenstar with tales of horror, when the Slayer of the dark things of the world, had better and more sound advice to give, mostly from her own experience with the shadow. And that she had seen the worst of the world, and he had no need to censor his thoughts or troubles when with her.
Legolas had not been able to argue against that, but ever did he wonder at his friend's demeanour towards Buffy, and knowing her well kept secret that she hoarded in her heart of hearts, he worried for her welfare if Aragorn persisted to lead her on so cluelessly.
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Rivendell, 306 TA.
For his part, Elrond watched them as well; always noticing that Aragorn and Arwen, while still in love, were both keeping secrets from each other, and pulling back to keep them so.
The Elvenlord dared not yet hope, for ever had Arwen been stubborn once it came to her choices. And as she was blessed with the foresight of his line, as well as her mother's, she was wise beyond the measure of her years, and some said that maybe one day she would pierce the hearts of others like her foremother Idril Celebrindal had been able to.
But now, seeing the manner in which his foster son behaved towards Dagnir (slayer), he could not help but wonder, and plot.
His sons had told him before that Aragorn and Buffy had had some feelings for each other before; but as the long years passed with no indication of it, he had dismissed it as the folly of youth. Or the wishful hopes of his twin sons.
But seeing Aragorn ever seek out the worldly, battle knowledgeable and fearlessly brilliant Buffy, Elrond's devious brain had kicked into overdrive. Now he could no longer look at Buffy as a woman destined to fight against the Dark Lord.
Now he looked at her, with new eyes, at the woman who could possibly save his beloved Undómiel (Evenstar) from her self chosen fate.
And he vowed that he would make sure that Aragorn got a helping hand in pressing his unwitting suit, if he had to kill them both to do it.
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Lothlórien, 3007 TA.
From the Golden Wood, Galadriel was perhaps the only one armed with some knowledge of what was happening. For she knew of Buffy's long abiding love for the king of Men, and she had seen Aragorn's conflicted heart.
But what was perhaps more damning than her reading of their hearts, was the vision Arwen had received, both from her own gift and once more in the surface of the Mirror.
The Lady of the Wood would not feed Elrond false hopes and so she had bided her peace until a more opportune time had come. A small, cunning smile graced her fair face as she reflected upon her ingenious plan of action.
After her beloved grandsons had requested her aid in their endeavours, an idea had come to her mind to see how the complicated situation stood at this time.
Elrond's 3067th begetting day was to be next year and Galadriel was determined that her son by law should celebrate the day. With a ball. And guests.
And if she had her way, then a certain foursome would know the cunning of Galadriel…
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Imladris, 3008, TA.
For her father's begetting day ball, Arwen travelled to Rivendell with her grandparents, the planners of said ball, and their large escort of Lórien soldiers armed to the teeth. They were the last of the guests to arrive; Thranduil, Legolas, Gandalf, Aragorn and Buffy all having arrived before them, or in Buffy's case, had already been staying in the valley.
Weary from weeks on the road, Arwen had decided to forego seeking out Aragorn, and instead retired to her chambers.
Galadriel though, lingered near the gardens for several minutes, gazing into the distance, before entering the Last Homely House. Though her foresight could make out that something was going to happen there later, she felt that this was something that she had to let run its own course, and so she decided to seek out her son by law and see what he had done with her irrepressible grandsons.
They did have work to do after all.
As Arwen could not remain blind to Aragorn's behaviour when it occurred under her very nose, and Galadriel knew that all her family were loath to see Arwen waste her immortality so rashly, she was content to meddle.
And so, if her granddaughter would not save herself from her own folly, then it was high time for her family to step in. And she would see Buffy's long patience and suffering rewarded.
Whatever it took to accomplish it.
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Having heard that Arwen had retired for the night due to her weariness, Aragorn made to seek out his friends, desiring to catch up with them away from the sharp eyes of Elrond and Thranduil.
Hearing that they were in the glade with the hot springs, he eagerly went to find them.
Moving with all the silence of a well trained and well skilled ranger, he crept upon the duo silently, hearing the sounds of laughter as he approached.
Peeking through the thick bushes to see what the commotion was all about, (he had walked in on Elladan and Elrohir's mischief one too many times to not check out what the situation was first.) the ranger froze, unable to believe what he was seeing.
Buffy was lying on the ground on her back, long blonde hair spread over the grass in disarray, and Legolas was firmly sitting on top of her, his fair face close to hers, whispering something into her ear.
Buffy was giggling, flexing her wrists as Legolas pinned them to the ground with one hand, his other hand softly stroking her side.
She wriggled underneath the Elf, as his long fall of silky hair hung down to hide their faces, both unknowing of their stunned watcher.
Aragorn could not believe what his eyes were seeing; and as he watched two of his best friends snuggling together in the manner of lovers, he felt some unknown feeling well up inside him. As he watched the two blondes frolic together, he pushed aside the uncalled for swell of resentment and instead focused on his growing anger.
So Buffy and Legolas were lovers and had not bothered to tell him? How long had this being going on for? How long had he been the fool who had not known? Had Elrond known? Was that why Buffy had stayed in Rivendell these past few years? How could they not tell him, he whom they called friend?!
Hurt at this deception, he let his anger build and build until it he was seething. So Buffy and Legolas found it amusing to deceive him so callously, did they? he mentally snarled, well if that was how they wanted it, fine!
What did he care if they had found love with each other? He told himself. No, he did not care overly much at all, he tried to persuade himself as he stormed back into the Last Homely House.
So then why did he feel like wringing Legolas's neck?
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What actually happened: the objective view.
Buffy squealed as Legolas pounced on her, knocking her to the ground, and pinning her down. "Take that back!" he said, as he began to tickle her mercilessly with one hand.
Buffy just laughed harder, and made no effort to extradite herself from the position she was in. "What? That you fell into the Forest River?"
"I was four!" Legolas snarled.
Buffy was getting breathless from laughter and her squeals and giggles rang through the air. "Hey! It's not my fault Thranduil likes telling tales! And you're getting grass in my hair!"
Legolas just leaned down closer, so that his breath ghosted past her ear, "Why should I let you up? And have you tell Elladan and Elrohir? Do I look like a fool? You are not to tell them Buffy!"
"Aha! I knew it!" Buffy crowed, "So you admit it!"
Legolas just tickled her again, and Buffy playfully flexed her wrists to see could she wriggle out of this predicament, without literally booting her friend off of her.
Legolas's hair fell down like a curtain about them as he tormented her, "Promise me you will not tell them!" he demanded.
Buffy tried to quieten her giggles, "Okay! Okay! I give! I won't give the twins more ammunition! There! Satisfied?"
"Very," Legolas said, smirking as he got off her. "And let us not forget that you are not the only one who has tales to tell…"
Buffy just glared at him as she tried to get all the leaves and grass out of her hair, "If you even think about it, I will personally help the twins wreak havoc and mayhem on you. And I'm mean…"
"I get your point, Dagnir (slayer)," Legolas said, laughing himself as he helped her up, "But come, 'tis nearly time for the last meal and I would not wish to explain to Lord Elrond and my adar why we were late!"
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Flashback: -
The royal palace, Mirkwood, 3003 TA.
"Do not play me for a fool, my Greenleaf!" Thranduil said, as he rounded on his only child, "I know that something is the matter and that it has to do with Rivendell and why you refuse to visit there!"
"'Tis nothing adar (father)!" Legolas cried, determined to leave the room at the first opportunity that presented itself.
Trying to escape out the door, he cried out in surprise when Thranduil beat him to it, and blocked the door with his larger frame. "Do not even think about it ion nín (my son)," he warned in a low voice.
"This is none of your business adar!" Legolas exclaimed in frustration, "Will you not just leave me alone?!"
"Greenleaf," Thranduil said evenly, "You have been moping about for the last twenty years and it has gotten worse lately. I hear that your temper has curdled and that our people now tread warily around you of late. I have let you linger on in your own fashion long enough pen neth (young one), I refuse to let this continue any longer. You are not leaving this room until I know what is troubling you. Even if we must stay here for a year."
Legolas sighed, and flopped into a chair, knowing all too well how stubborn his father was, and that he always followed through on his threats. His adar would not be satisfied until he had extracted the truth from him, by whatever means.
"I fear that I did something grossly inappropriate ada, and that I impugned on a friend's honour while doing so." Legolas said quietly, his head hung with shame.
Moving away from the door, Thranduil took a seat himself, eyes locked on the form of his self flagellating son, "I take it then that you finally made some of your intentions known to the Lady Arwen?"
Legolas's blonde head snapped up in surprise, and for a long minute, he just stared at the rather smug looking Elvenking in shock, "Ada?" he asked tremulously, "How did -?"
"Ion (son), you forget that I have known you all the years of your life. Did you really think you could hide so profound a change from me? I had wondered whether you were ever going to challenge that mortal's supposed claim on her. Estel (Hope) is arrogant indeed to think he deserves the Evenstar of the Elves, and she his foster sister no less."
"I kissed her ada, and then I left the vale the next morn. I had trespassed against her honour, and harmed my friendship with Aragorn. She is betrothed, she is not free. I had no right…"
"Greenleaf, if you think that reckless human would be upset, then I would agree with you. However, a little bird told me that your human is of mixed heart, and is acting like a genuine buffoon when it comes to the tangled affair that is courtship. Because I would say, my son, that it matters little what Aragorn thinks, and what only matters is the Lady Arwen's opinion."
"She does not care for me ada." Legolas said despondently, "She loves Aragorn. She will be his queen."
"I believe that she fancies herself in love. After all what love tale is more poignant than the tale of Beren and Lúthien? And she being a descendent of that union, and herself called Lúthien's image come again to Arda, I would wager that she would find it very easy to imagine herself and Aragorn as the star-crossed lovers of old. Trust me, my Greenleaf, Elrond would most heartily support your suit. And I believe Galadriel is into the business of making a match for a clueless king in exile. So why not woo the lady of your heart; court her, seduce her, win her heart. Eru knows you tend to inspire rather too much adoration amongst some of your own people."
"Ada!" Legolas cried in shock at his father's advice, "I cannot betray Aragorn!"
"And if the lady herself comes to care for you, are you going to lock her in a marriage with a mortal she no longer loves; forsaking her immortality and her chance of happiness for him just because you fear to stain your honour for her. If you love her, Greenleaf, fight for her. Or at least see if she feels the same. If she tells you nay, then you can move on with your life. But if she says yes, then, my son, love her, court her, and take what happiness you can from such a love match."
Legolas didn't reply, and Thranduil, seeing that his words had gotten through to his headstrong offspring, decided to leave him to his thoughts.
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Rivendell, 3008 TA. The following morning.
Aragorn's anger at the betrayal of him by his friends had not waned over the passing of the night, and so it was that when he walked into the dining hall for breakfast, he exuded such an air of frigidity and menace as to have nearly the entire hall staring at him.
Sinking into his seat like a big grumpy grizzly, he managed to refrain from trying to bore holes into Legolas and Buffy, who were looking over at him and whispering together. The very sight made him grind his teeth together. Just look at them! He thought! Talking about me, probably laughing at my stupidity.
His dark expression just got darker and darker as the meal wore on, until he wore a scowl so black that some of the serving staff were afraid to go near him.
Even Elrond was clearly taken aback by his foster son's mood, but Galadriel just smiled serenely at the ranger, and he had to resist the urge to throw the bread rolls at her, just to wipe that expression off of her face.
Even the arrival of Arwen could not soften his mood, the very sight of Legolas and Buffy sitting next to each other, with all their orc-damned whispering and nudging was driving him insane, and Arwen, who had seated herself beside him, was hard pressed to get even the barest of attention as Aragorn attempted to glare his food into submission.
Eventually Arwen stopped her gentle entreaties and comforting touches, leaning back into her chair with a small pout of pique at her betrothed's behaviour.
At this point, Galadriel had to hide her satisfied smirk behind a napkin, causing Elrond to look between her and the ranger suspiciously, and even Celeborn was hard pressed to try to keep a straight face at the wary and apprehensive scowl Elrond was throwing in the direction of his mother in law.
For her part, Arwen could not learn what the matter with Aragorn was, and after having all her gentle questions rebuked most harshly, she was determined not to coddle Aragorn any more. Really, she huffed, he had not behaved so childishly since he was a stripling! And now here he was, a grown man, practically sulking at the table! She pointedly ignored the fact that she was now doing the same.
Aragorn's dark mood was obviously catching, and spread a dark cloud over all those near to him. To the other side of the ranger, Glorfindel could be seen to glance over at the glowering man every few minutes, undoubtedly in response to hearing the latest muttered threat the man had growled under his breath.
Directly across from the ranger and the seneschal was Erestor, and he seemed to be more concerned over whether Aragorn would demolish the table if he glared at it anymore than Glorfindel's discomfiture as Aragorn started literally stabbing the food on his plate. The Balrog Slayer really did not want to have to explain to Elrond why his youngest suddenly felt the urge to be homicidal.
Buffy honestly didn't know what was the matter with him either, but she tried to ignore him as best she could, firmly believing that he'd emerge out of his bad mood eventually. After all, he really couldn't beat Angel for the most brooding record, so she really wasn't fazed overly much.
But when she left to head to the training grounds to see if Gildor was up for a match, Aragorn rose and followed her.
He caught up with her just before she reached the bridge, and grabbing her by the arm, spun her around to face him. Buffy looked at him in surprise and then told him off for acting like a barbarian but Aragorn ignored her.
"How long has it been going on Dagnir? How long have you been hiding it under my very nose?" he snarled, hands clutching her arms tightly.
Buffy was utterly baffled, "What's been going on?" she asked in confusion.
But this only made Aragorn even angrier. "And now you lie to my face!" he growled, his anger overriding all his common sense, "You would lie about the fact that you lay with Legolas last night? But what can I expect from one so given to treachery? I'm sure that you and Legolas had much laughter at my expense! 'That fool Aragorn' you would say, never realising how his supposed best friends had concealed a fact of such import?! How long has this gone on? Before or after you had Denethor? Or -"
He never got the chance to finish his rant because Buffy punched him square across the jaw, splitting his lip and barely missing his nose, "How dare you?!" Buffy shouted, angered beyond measure by Aragorn's callous words. "I thought we were friends, and then you come out here and all but call me a whore?! How dare you Aragorn?! Get off your damned high horse for a minute and just maybe you'll be able to rub two brain cells together! There is nothing going on between me and Legolas, so whatever 'betrayal' you were harping on about only exists in your imagination! And about Denethor! I mean eeeugh! Men! They make me sick!" she said, slapping the stunned Aragorn across the face for good measure, "I really thought you were better than that Aragorn. I thought we were friends. Guess this proves me wrong, huh?"
Without any other word, she stormed off, furious and hurting, her eyes suspiciously wet, and fiercely resisting the urge to choke Aragorn.
Behind her, Aragorn fingered his aching jaw, but then it hardened and he too stormed off in the opposite direction.
And from a glade nearby, Thranduil and Elladan just stared at the spot where the shouts had been heard, wondering where in Arda that had come from.
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Four days later, Elrond's begetting day celebrations commenced under strained circumstances. Aragorn, having vented his spleen upon Buffy, and then Legolas, was strenuously being ignored by the Elf and slayer concerned. And Thranduil and Elladan, having informed the others in the household of what had occurred, had everyone on edge as the volatile trio were gathered in one room.
Elrond had merely declared that he had a headache, and had tried to gracefully bow out of this party for him, but his austere mother in law would hear none of it and had all but forcibly dragged him into the seething pit of tension.
The air of the room was noticeably chilled, and the golden duo of Legolas and Buffy were doing their utmost best not to acknowledge Aragorn, or even the fact that his harsh and rash words had had any effect on them whatsoever.
To the sharper eyed people in the room, it was clear that Legolas was also avoiding Arwen like the plague and that the Evenstar was also somewhat uneasy and could be seen to throw unreadable looks in the Elf Prince's direction every few minutes.
The secret to that riddle only two knew, but it gave several people pause for thought.
As the partygoers circulated amongst themselves, noticeably avoiding Aragorn's still foul mood, Elrond decided that he had had enough of this squabbling.
Heading over to his intolerably grouchy son, he indulged himself in a mini-rant to Aragorn on the inappropriateness and childishness of such behaviour and the duties that a man of his rank was expected to inform without acting like a two year old. Satisfied at having unleashed some of his annoyance, which was caused more by Galadriel's schemes, Elrond headed back to Celeborn, leaving Aragorn to try to wipe the scowl off his face ere Elrond fulfilled his threats and had the twins toss him in the Bruinen.
Speaking of the indomitable duo, the twins were out in all their splendour, and seemed to be having a great time chatting to Buffy and Legolas. Aragorn had to clench his teeth ere he started scowling again.
Even though he watched them with eyes clouded by rage and resentment, he could not help but notice that they made a good couple. Buffy was resplendent in an amethyst dress, intricately embroidered with silver, and Legolas was decked out in light blue and silver, making his fair hair shine like gold.
Aragorn refused to admit to himself that he was jealous, and ignoring the couple across the room, he sought out his Evenstar.
She was still quite annoyed with him over his behaviour these past few days, but soon warmed up to him after a few half-grovelled apologies and a lot of flattery to soothe her dented pride.
As Aragorn lost himself in his betrothed, and Buffy and Legolas made merry as if Aragorn was not present, commiserating with each other as they danced and talked; Elladan and Elrohir watched the unfolding events with nothing short of glee.
Having already entreated for and secured their devious daernaneth's (grandmother's) help, the twins were all set to implement their long thought out plans. And Aragorn's delightful little mistake had only helped to rush those plans along.
Aragorn's jealousy was obvious to all with eyes, save for Arwen and the ranger himself, and Elladan had recently come up with a most wicked idea to try to convince Aragorn that Arwen was not the woman for him.
As the feast began, and the appropriate toasts were made, the elder twin surveyed all the players in this little game of strategy.
Galadriel and Celeborn were deep in conversation with Erestor, all three wearing smirks way too knowing for comfort. Eru knew what mischief they would incite the counsellor into wreaking on them. After the chaos filled years of the twins' youth, Erestor had plenty of reason to want some payback.
Gandalf was smoking away on his pipe, gaining much amusement from the proceedings and the drama that encompassed it.
Elrond and Glorfindel had occupied one corner of the room, and were currently sipping miruvor and watching the latest show in the lovebirds saga unfold.
Thranduil was sitting near his son, eyes fixing on Arwen for long periods of time as if taking her measure, and then shifting back to stare at his son, who squirmed uncomfortably under that knowing gaze.
Arwen had flung herself into a chair, and was sulking like she had when she was a child, occasionally throwing dark glances in Aragorn's direction, whose face had frozen into a dark scowl perpetually aimed at Buffy and Legolas, who were sitting together, trying to help each other weather the ranger's animosity.
All in all, Elladan decided, it was the perfect setting for a plan to take shape.
For if five Elven Lords, and the Lady of Light herself could not make some sense of this mess, then Elbereth herself would hardly be able to resolve such subtle warfare.
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Later on, after everyone else had departed, glad to escape the increasingly chilled atmosphere of the great hall as all the parties involved moods' had soured alarmingly. Now having retreated to Elrond's study; Thranduil, Galadriel, Celeborn, Elrond, Elladan and Elrohir all tried to think up a solution to the present friction between the quartet of friends.
"I do not see why we must travel round in circles so, when it is plain to see that Aragorn is more jealous than he has ever been," Elladan said, leaving light-heartedness behind as he turned his attention to more serious matters than letting off some steam.
"Aye," Galadriel agreed, "But if Aragorn knows it not, then it is of little use to us for now."
Thranduil harrumphed, "Well I think we should concentrate on getting my son and Elrond's daughter to see sense ere we focus in on the ranger. I think he would need the hammer of Aulë himself to make him see reason."
Elrond glared at the Elvenking, "And why should your son be good enough for my daughter?"
Thranduil just smirked, "Chatter all you want, Half-Elven, but I know your thinking on this. If Legolas's love for Arwen is true, what is the harm in helping the lady in question see what could be hers if she were but to break with Aragorn."
"I worry more about this rift between Dagnir, Elessar and Legolas," Galadriel said, "They all have a part to play in the future and this ill parting bodes ill."
"Aragorn is acting like a child who has had his favourite toy taken from him," Elrohir offered, "But a few months of brooding should cure him of his anger, and then he should be prevailed upon to apologise most greatly to the two he has wronged."
Celeborn held up a hand for quiet, "I, for one, think we should establish our objectives in this matter. Are we trying to unite the Evenstar and the Greenleaf, as we seek to unite Elessar and Aralle?"
"I hardly think that name is fitting anymore," Galadriel said, "She has a place in this world now."
"But she has almost as many names as Elrond's youngest," Celeborn protested, "How am I supposed to keep track of her most current one?"
"Well, I hear she usually goes by 'Buffy'." Elladan said sarcastically, shaking his head at his grandsire's reticence.
"Aragorn will never act without provocation," Elrond said, "I say that is Arwen whose heart we must seek to waken to truth, and then she can dispatch Aragorn's illusions."
"But that hardly means that we cannot let Aragorn see what he is missing…" Elladan said, a thought coming to mind.
"Of what do you speak?" Thranduil asked, "If we can get Arwen to see Legolas's love for her, will not Aragorn finally be free to know his own heart?"
"Aragorn will not act without provocation you say?" Elladan said slyly, quoting his father, "We all know that Aragorn will not admit he is in the wrong unless most heartily pushed into doing so, so why not feed his jealousy?"
"And how would you propose to do that, Elrondion (son of Elrond)? Aragorn will not change his ways now." Gandalf asked as he walked into the room, always ready to help with a good plot or two.
Elladan's growing smile was pure evil as he looked towards the Istar (wizard), "Then mayhap all Aragorn needs is a push in the right direction…"
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Nearly a week later, Gandalf sought Buffy out for a matter of most urgent importance. Leading her to a quiet area of Elrond's halls, he explained that he sought her aid and what information her watchfulness could bring him in his endeavours against Sauron.
"Buffy, I think it is time that you are acquainted with what is to come in the near future. Sauron has returned, and his strength grows daily." he said seriously, caterpillar like eyebrows wriggling as he furrowed his brows.
"I know that already. I mean c'mon, I've already met the oh so dashing Nazgûl." Buffy said, leaning back into her chair and fiddling with her nails.
"I think the One has been found," Gandalf whispered.
Buffy's head shot up to look at him, "You think what?!"
"I have never believed that the One Ring was lost to the sea, as some do, because for Sauron to grow stronger, then so too must the ring come closer to its master. It has returned from whence it was lost. The war for Middle Earth approaches on swift wings."
Buffy frowned, her hazel eyes troubled, "I don't suppose there's no way we can kill Sauron before he gets his hands on it, is there?" she asked without much hope.
"No, the spirit of Sauron will ever endure as long as the One Ring exists," Gandalf explained, "His life force is bound to the Ring, and the Ring survived. Sauron has returned. His Orcs have multiplied, his fortress of Barad-dûr is rebuilt in the land of Mordor. Sauron needs only this Ring to cover all the lands in a second darkness. He is seeking it. Seeking it, all his thought is bent on it. The Ring yearns above all else to return to the hand of its master. They are one. The Ring, and the Dark Lord. Buffy - he must never find it. Never. Or else all is lost."
"I've heard about the Last Alliance Gandalf, I know what's at stake. Obviously, we have to find it first. But where is it?"
"That answer is one that I am seeking, Dagnir (slayer)," Gandalf said, "But I think that you shall have a much greater… sense for the Ring. It was forged in evil, and all that is made with its power comes to ruin, and that your slayer senses will locate it swiftly if it ever comes to be near you."
"Pray that it never does," Buffy answered quietly, face pale and eyes dark, "'Cos I'm not so sure that I can resist its call…"
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A/N: Well? Feedback welcome and appreciated! Please READ and REVIEW!!!
P.S - I have been nominated for the My Precious Awards, so thanks once more to whoever did it! Please my lovely darling reviewers and readers, vote for me!! (bats eyelashes and dangles free Aragorns and Legolas's… now throwing in Boromir action figures too….)
It's the 2004 MPA (my precious awards for LOTR fanfiction excellence)
The link is here: (just remove the spaces!): http : elvenlords . Net / MPA / mpa . htm
PLEASE VOTE!!!!! FOR ME OF COURSE!!!
Voting is from September 15th to October 15th. Please vote for me!!
Voting season is now OPEN! Even if you don't normally review, please, PLEASE vote for me!
As last I checked I was in third place, I'm getting all competitive now and I really want First Knight to win!!! Pretty please, with sugar on top?
And to those who have already voted, thanks a million!!!!! :D
Next chapter: It's 3017. The hunt begins, Glorfindel goes a-searching, we meet some not so happy campers, Arwen gets a revelation, Rivendell is threatened by a soon to be severe food shortage, and Gimli has an apoplexy.
Elvish:
Imladris - Rivendell
hrívë - winter
Dagnir - slayer
Undómiel - Evenstar
Adar - father
ion nín - my son
Pen neth - young one
Ion - son
Estel - hope
Daernaneth - grandmother
Elrondion - son of Elrond
Istar - wizard
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Dwimordene - the name in Rohan for the Golden Wood of Lothlórien. It has generally been villainised by superstition, old wives' and soldiers' tales of the Lady who dwells there, and how she weaves her spells with sorcerers and net-weavers. All completely untrue, but none of the Rohirrim have ever gone near the Wood and they fear it.
Éomer - son of Éomund of Eastfold and Princess Théodwyn, sister to Théoden King. Born in 2991. Has lived with Théoden King since his parents death 3002. In 3003, Éomer is currently 12.
Éowyn - daughter of Éomund of Eastfold and Princess Théodwyn, sister to Théoden King. Born in 2995. Has lived with Théoden King since her parents death 3002. In 3003, Éowyn is currently 8.
Gríma Wormtongue - Counsellor of King Théoden and agent of Saruman.
House of Eorl - the House of the Kings of Rohan. Named after Eorl the Young who first settled in Rohan, and was their first leader.
Idril Celebrindal - daughter of King Turgon of Gondolin and his Vanyar wife. Married a mortal man called Tuor and bore him a son called Eärendil. She escaped the fall of Gondolin with her son and husband. And when Tuor felt the sea-call in him, she set sail with him on a boat, seeking the West. Tales say that both made it to the Blessed Realm, and that Tuor was given the life of the Eldar, and lives there still.
Lúthien - Daughter of King Thingol of Doriath and Melian the Maia. Born in the First Age. Married a mortal man and came back from the dead as a mortal after convincing Mandos with a song to release her and her love, Beren. Considered the most beautiful Elf-maid to walk Arda. Elrond's foremother.
Meduseld - the Golden Hall of Edoras, in Rohan. The residence of the King and the court.
Taur-e-Nelaedelos - The name of Mirkwood in Sindarin. It means 'Forest of the Great Fear'. This is what Greenwood the Great (Eryn Galen in Sindarin) was named after the rise of Dol Guldur.
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P.P.S - as per xxx's request, here are very rough summaries of the two other BtVS/LotR fics I am working on.
Horizon's West: BtVS/LotR. Set in the Second Age. When the First Slayer chooses Buffy as her champion for Middle Earth, she helps fight the war against Sauron from Lindon, and works to undo the Rings' power while she struggles to fulfil her destiny and find a place in this world. Buffy/Elrond.
Winter's Heart: BtVS/LotR. Set in the First Age. To stop a demon of her world ending that of Middle Earth, Buffy is sent to Gondolin, as one of its protectors. But when all goes wrong, and Beleriand sinks into the sea, can Buffy survive the loss of her home and her love? Buffy/Glorfindel.
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