Rhian has settled into her new apartment, and begins her new life, as she enjoys some visitors.
Letters are sent from the Woodland Realm, with reports of the court proceedings.
.
.
Chapter Nine
The Woodland Realm, 24th January, 2942, T.A.
Sigrid held Darryn in her arms, turned to Rhian and said, "He gets bigger every day, doesn't he? I remember when Tilda was first born - she was so tiny. Well, Tilda's always been small, for her age, but his little man is so solid and big!
Rhian had just sat down in the rocking chair in the living room of her suite, smiling at him. "I still look at him, sometimes, and can't believe he's mine."
"I love his hair. It's dark, just like yours. I think he looks just like you, really." Sigrid observed the sleeping infant. Darryn was dressed in a dark blue sweater with matching socks, that the ladies from Dale had given her, among many, many other items of clothing, gifted from the Elves and the women of Dale.
His mother nodded. "I think so, too. I'm glad of it, really. I would love him, no matter what, but it's easier, because so far, he looks nothing like his father."
"Good riddance, I say. But regardless, Darryn will look like himself, so let's think of better things." Sigrid got up to put the baby in his cot, sat down on the couch next to the rocking chair. "I'm so glad you're here, and that we're becoming friends." She smiled at the older girl, as she picked up her knitting, and Rhian worked on her sewing.
~o0o~
Rhian had moved into the rooms down the hall from the Royal Apartments after she was discharged from the infirmary, and an Elf named Indis had come to look after her. She was cheerful, and patient in a quiet way, which helped the girl feel at ease with her fairly quickly.
She still kept most people at a distance, but there were a few that she didn't feel nervous around. Sigrid and Daeron were among them, and the Princess made a point to stop in and see her several times a week. Sometimes she brought little Tilda, who always enjoyed a chance to see and hold the baby, and once, they even brought their new dog, Esta. Esta put her at ease within minutes, with her kind, calm demeanor, and her deep, dark eyes, that regarded her with kindness and patience.
Hannah had come to see her several times since she'd been here. Since Rhian had agreed to let Hannah help her, Indis would smile and take the baby into a different room, so she and the Midwife could talk about things every three days or so. Their sessions were often difficult and draining.
Indis and Hannah were working together with Rhian to get her though her depression and anxiety. When Hannah wasn't there, Indis helped her to take care of the baby and to focus on positive activities, and to make sure she got proper rest. It helped a great deal to have someone there to structure her days; Rhian was still so tired from the baby, and world-weary from her illness.
As much as she loved Darryn, she still felt like she was always walking up a steep hill covered with grey grass, with a mist that showed the outline of bare trees. She still cried quite a bit, especially during her talks with Hannah, but the midwife promised her this was a good thing.
"The only way to get around it is through it, lovey. But I'll be here with you; you won't be alone, I promise you." The Midwife promised Rhian that, when all was said and done, she'd be better and stronger than she'd ever been. Rhian hung on to that hope, even if some days it was only by a thread.
Hannah had instructed her to do her best to keep busy and focus on positive things, in between their 'talks.' Rhian wasn't to think of her problems day and night, but leave those things for the times when she was here, to try to balance out her life, a bit. "Easier said than done, I know," she said, "but all that matters is that you take deep breaths and try, all right? Just for today."
And Rhian was trying her best, and Indis helped a great deal with this. She had the baby, which kept her busy; Darryn liked to nurse every three hours, so, Indis would sit and sing to her, or tell her stories, which were very interesting. Between feedings, Rhian would either nap, or work her sewing, her knitting, or her schoolwork (Rhian was learning to read and write). Indis would also make sure to take her out for her daily walk.
She had to wash, be dressed and get out of her rooms every day, Hannah said. She and Indis would take the baby, and they would stroll up and down the wide corridor of the Royal Wing, while Indis kept up a cheerful chatter. Rhian didn't like it; it made her panicky to be out of her rooms, but Indis, always with a smile, made her go nonetheless. They only walked for a short distance, and none of the guards tried to talk to her, but looked friendly and calm. If Rhian happened to pass anyone else in the corridor, no one stopped her or spoke to her; they simply smiled, gave a short wave, and went on their way, to her great relief.
What Rhian didn't know, was Hannah had met with King Thranduil and Hilda, and instructed them to do exactly this, to help her get over her fear, of leaving her home. As time went on, Indis would be helping Rhian to stop and speak with people, but when she was ready. To King Thranduil's credit, he ordered the guards to pretend she wasn't there, and said the same to the children (Tilda didn't understand it, but promised that she would do the same, to "help Rhian feel better").
She had a long way to go, but it was getting easier every day.
.
~o0o~
"Oh, Stars! I dropped a stitch!" Sigrid exclaimed. She sighed with exasperation, and maneuvered the needles to pick it up again, "These are for Uncle Percy, and I want to get them finished before the next load of supplies go to Dale." She held up the blue sock, and Rhian admired it.
"Before we came here, I used to sit with the ladies in the Camp and do that. I like it here, much better. It's so much quieter."
Sigrid smiled. "I'm so glad you're feeling a little better." Then she put her needles down and started gathering her things. "I wish I could stay longer, but I've got to do some schoolwork before dinner. The supply wagons came a couple of hours ago, so hopefully they've got the letters sorted. Did I tell you we have Bain's friend staying with us?"
Rhian shook her head. "I don't think so."
"He's a nice boy, and Rhys and Bain have been friends for a while. Daeron has been teaching them and some of the other boys in swordsmanship and archery, and I think Rhys is better at it than Bain," Sigrid laughed, "but don't tell anyone I told you that. Bain has this idea he should be the best because he and our Da are Dragonslayers." She rolled her eyes. "Anyway, Daeron is a good teacher, and I've heard all the boys like him."
"Daeron's nice, and he knows a lot about medicine, too."
"I think that's why he was assigned to us. Ada told me he's a soldier first, but he knows just as much about treating Men as the Healers here. He told us he spent a long time in Dale with King Girion, if you can believe it." Sigrid laughed. "He even told me he delivered our 6th great-grandfather! I still can't begin to grasp that one!"
Rhian's eyes widened in amazement. "That's hard to take in."
"Don't I know it" Sigrid was finished arranging her things, and got up from the couch. Rhian made to get up, but Sigrid waved her back down. "Sit, sit, you're fine. Goodbye, Indis," she called to the Elf in the other room.
The Elf walked into the living room, "Goodbye, My Lady."
"Thank you for taking such care of my friend, here." She smiled at Rhian.
"It is my pleasure, My Lady."
A few minutes after Sigrid left, there was a knock at the door of the apartment. Indis opened it, and Daeron stepped in, "Gi suilanthon, Indis!"
To Rhian, he grinned and said, "Greetings, Rhian! Do you have time for a visitor?"
Rhian smiled, shyly. "Of course. Hello… Please, sit down."
Daeron's cheeks looked flushed, like he had been outside. He went over to the cot that was set up in the living room and peered down at the sleeping infant. "He changes so quickly, does he not?" He smiled down at his namesake, as he brushed his fingers over the baby's cheeks, that were filling out rapidly. Darryn was on his back, and his mouth was making sucking motions in his sleep.
"Thank you, He's starting to look less like a newborn, and more like a real baby. I know that sounds silly, but…"
"No. It is not silly. It is exactly right." He sat down on the chair facing her. "I am sorry I have not visited sooner. My schedule is very busy, between guard duties and teaching the boys, weaponry. I enjoy it very much; they are good children, and it is important to teach them early, so as to build a strong Army for Dale. How have you been?" he asked her.
"I like it here, so far. It was strange at first, but I'm getting used to it. Indis is really nice."
Daeron grinned. "I think so, too. I was hoping you would like each other."
"You know her?" Rhian asked. "Really?"
"Well, I know most everyone in the Woodland Realm. Elves are much, much older, so it gives us a chance to meet one another. I have also spent many years traveling throughout the villages to administer aid, and care for expectant mothers. But in this case," he smirked "I know her, because she is my Aunt."
"Your Aunt? Really? She looks so young! Like your sister!"
"I imagine it is hard to get used to; the idea that Elves don't age, once they reach their majority. But, it is who we are, so it is not unusual to us, at all. Elves have difficulty sometimes understanding how the race of Men age and grow old. I think it is just a matter of understanding each other."
Rhian put her sewing down in her lap. "I suppose so. You and Indis have the same color hair and your eyes are the same, too. I can see the resemblance."
"My cousin Turamarth teases me, because I look more like his mother than he does, and he looks more like my own mother." He laughed. "It is very funny, because our mothers are identical twins! He and I grew up together, and are more like brothers than cousins, really."
"Where are your parents?" Rhian asked, curious.
"My father, Adamar, is the Captain of the Gates. He is in charge of the entrances to and from the Palace, as well as all the Guards who protect us within it. My mother helps to oversee the kitchens here; she now works with your people to coordinate meals and other such things. She has been delighted with the challenge of providing all the different dishes your people require for your diet."
"What's her name?"
"Oh, I'm sorry, I thought I said. Her name is Idril."
Just at that moment, Indis came into the living area again. He grinned, and stood up to stand beside her. "I was just explaining to Rhian why I look so much like you!"
Rhian looked up at them, side by side; It was true. The two Elves, smiling down at her, had the same long, dark auburn hair and bright green eyes. Rhian could have sworn they were the same age, and they look so young! She didn't dare ask how old they were, because it would be too hard to contemplate.
Both Elves helped her feel at ease, with so many things, and were patient and kind. For that, Rhian was supremely grateful. She had friends, now. For the first time in her life, she had actual, genuine friends, and some of them were Princesses and Kings!
Hannah might be right, after all. There might be a day, when Rhian could look outside of herself, and no longer see shades of grey and mist, but bright colors and sunshine.
.
LETTERS FROM THE WOODLAND REALM
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To Bard from Thranduil:
To Bard, son of Brand, King of Dale:
Galion is sending you and Alun details about Rhys's physical examination and treatment. I wish to emphasize that the boy is absolutely pain free, and he will bear no lasting physical evidence of his unpleasant experience.
I wish to give you a detail report of events in my Court, regarding Ina and Iola of Dale:
-They were called into the Throne Room once again. No children were permitted to be present, per your request. In front of them, I confirmed that they had written to you, and then your letter was presented as evidence. This, they were not expecting, and tried to deny the authenticity of the letter. Hilda provided several merchants from Dale who confirmed that the signature and handwriting were theirs.
-Galion read the entire contents of the letter out loud to the court. Ina and Iola, once forced to admit they had written it, lost their temper, demanding deference due their "station."
-I presented the indictment and judgement that the King of Dale had pronounced and gave it to Hilda, Dale's Senior Government Official, to read it aloud. Your ladies wanted to plead for mercy, but I told them they must respect the authority of their own King.
-I presented the two servants, Lynne and Mona their documents, releasing them from service to Ina and Iola. The defendants were not pleased, but your people here were very impressed with their King! The girls, Lynne and Mona, aren't yet able to read and write, and so they asked Galion to pass along their thanks to you.
-The defendants were taken to rooms far from the other citizens of Dale. Unfortunately, once they had no opportunity to inflict their personalities on others, they turned their acrimony on each other. The noise became so disruptive, that I had silencing spells placed on their rooms, out of consideration for their neighbors. They will speak to and see no one, except their guards, who will, as you requested, not speak Westron in front of them.
Respectfully submitted,
Thranduil, son of Oropher, King of the Woodland Realm
Bard, Meleth nîn, enough of politics and Kinging.
First, I would like to report that Rhys is doing well, here with us. He is a bit melancholy at times, so the visit from his father next week will do him good. In the meantime, we keep him occupied and Esta is keeping a close watch.
Hervenn nîn, since I sent you the last letter, I had a terrible nightmare. It was about the Dragon. It's always about the Dragon, Bard. After sitting in front of the fire for a long time, I sent for Galion.
I tried to follow your advice, and talk about my dream; I have never done this, before. It is so hard to speak of it, just as with losing Mírelen. You and Galion are wise to teach me that darkness can no longer remain so, if it is brought to the light. So, I talked to Galion. I could not say much, but he and I feel it is a start.
I understand now, why you wanted to talk about the nightmare you had, when we were together in Dale. Bard, I am sorry, that I did not listen. We must always be able to speak to each other, be willing to listen. I failed you, but never again.
There is much noise and activity in my rooms, but they are lonelier than ever, because you are not here. I especially feel your absence during the night, but I find that I yearn for your smile, your kindness and your wisdom in so many things.
I love you, Bard. Always.
Thranduil
P.S. I received Sigrid's birthday gifts safely. I am happy that Dáin had them finished in time. They are perfect for our daughter, and I will present them to her before the party.
.
From Galion to Bard:
Greetings, My Lord Bard:
It is my hope that this letter finds you and all in Dale well,
Enclosed are the signed and witnessed documents you need for your records, plus the original letter by Ina and Iola. Also enclosed are two copies of the Healer's report; one is for your records, and one is to be given to Alun, Rhys's father for his use.
The children continue with their studies. My King continues to look after them, and spends as much time with them, and Lady Hilda as possible. It has taken some effort to persuade Lady Hilda to get her proper rest, but, as you instructed, Tilda and the children make sure she relaxes.
Lord Thranduil and I have given Tilda her own desk in my study, as she likes spending the afternoons with me. She generally makes good use of my small couch for her afternoon naps, when she is not with Lady Hilda.
For now, please be assured that your family is well.
Regards,
Galion
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To Feren from Glélindë:
Meleth nîn,
I love being a mother. I especially love to brush out their curly hair, after their baths. Our girls are just so beautiful!
Gruffudd seems happy with us, and we are becoming good friends. I purchased a comfortable chair for him to sit by the fire, with a stool to put his leg up on. Our Healers will eventually try to give him something to wear on his stump, but they must wait until the beginning of next summer.
In the meantime, he is very happy, to sit with us in the evenings, smoking his pipe, and we tell each other stories of our lives, and our history. I have never known much about the race of Men, nor has Gruffudd known of Elves, either, so we enjoy this time.
We've had some snow, but not much. On days when the weather is a bit better, I take the girls out for short walks to see the animals in the barn. They enjoy it, but are still a bit shy about petting them.
I think of you always, and feel you in my heart. I may not see you, but you are there, our fëas are one as they have always been. Ci velethron e-guil nîn, Feren.
Glélindë
.
To Bard from Bain:
Da!
I like having Rhys living with us! I asked Sig and Til if they would mind if Rhys stayed with us, and they said okay and then we asked Auntie Hill, then she said okay.
He was really mad at me, at first, because I wrote to Tauriel. I didn't mean to keep it secret from you, Da. It's just that I promised him. I'm glad Tauriel told you about it – it was a relief!
He was really nervous, when Thranduil asked to see him, though. He didn't want to get anyone in trouble. I know Thranduil can be really scary to folks he doesn't like, but he was very nice, then. Bronwyn was there, too, and they asked me to sit with Rhys, so he wouldn't get upset. Esta was there too.
Anyways, Rhys finally told the truth about his grandma, and Thranduil took him to the Healer's. He has to take baths with a special oil and there is a salve that has to be put on him. I don't know much about it, because Rhys does it by himself, except for his back and Thranduil does that, and they won't let anyone see. But he feels better, so it doesn't matter.
He likes it with us. He likes to read more than I do, and Thranduil showed him the library, and told him if he wanted a book, to just ask the librarian there and she will get it for him.
I hope you don't mind him staying with us. He really misses his Da, and I didn't want him with strangers.
I have to go. It's time for sword practice. Which I'm doing good at, by the way.
Oh, and I almost forgot! I got to see Thranduil practice! He is SO fast! If he wasn't in the practice ring, Da, he'd be really scary, he is that good!
Love,
Bain
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To Bard from Sigrid:
Dear Da,
Here are the socks for Uncle Percy. I also made you a scarf out of the same color yarn. How are yours holding up?
Bain's happier having another boy around, and please tell Rhys's Da that he seems to really like it here. Esta makes a point to snuggle with Rhys, to make sure he feels better. I can't wait till you meet this dog, Da! I've never seen anything so smart in all my life!
Rhian is resting up, and seems to be settling down. She's still shy, but she loves her baby. He's so sweet – I love to go and see them. The Elf that is staying with Rhian is actually Daeron's Aunt, and her name is Indis. She's lovely and the perfect person for her. I like to visit them several times a week, and help with baby Darryn. He's so cute, Da! I can't wait till you see him!
Oh, Da, my birthday is next week, and it's the first one without you! I try so hard to keep busy, and I do. But I miss you so much. I cried the other night, after everyone was asleep, and Esta came in and tried to comfort me. I know it makes me a big baby, but I couldn't help it. Ada and Ada couldn't be more wonderful, but, he's just not you, Da.
Ada misses you too, but Tilda and I try to keep Ada occupied with telling us stories and drawing. He's made some wonderful pictures of animals, and parts of the forest the way it used to be, before the forest got sick. I like it. I told him he should put them together to make a book someday!
Love from your daughter,
Sigrid.
To Bard from Tilda,
Deer Dear Da,
Galion tells me to rite write this so I can get my words speled spelled write right. It is hard!
He is nise nice. He is my freindfiend friend. I petted the elks again. They do not bite. Do not wory worry. Ada will not let anyting anything bad hapen! Here is anoter another pixture picture of Ada.
I love you. I like Rhys. He is Bains friend. I got a desk.
Love,
Tilda
Your dawter Beenie
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To Bard from Hilda:
Dear Bard,
Yes, before you ask, I am resting. As much as I hate to admit it, I do feel better.
Tilda's had a bad nightmare last week, and for a few days, she was very quiet and stuck to us like glue. She needed to be cuddled a lot, which Galion and Thranduil were happy to do, and she seems better now.
Can you believe they even cheered her up by giving her a little desk in his office, and she sits there, feeling all busy and important. It's just her size and so that she can sit right next to Galion, and there are little places for paper and ink pots. I'll tell Thranduil to draw a picture of her sitting with it. It's cute.
Since Rhys got here Esta has been sticking to him like glue! She's really helped the boy adjust; please make sure his Da knows that.
Rhian seems to be doing well. Hannah's working with her closely, and makes sure she gets out of her rooms every day, whether she wants to or not. She feels comfortable with Indis, the Elf that's staying with her. Apparently, she's Daeron's Aunt. I've been to see her a couple of times, and I tell you, little Darryn is a friendly, happy baby.
How is my Percy doing? Is he still pulling those crazy pranks? That man! Serves him right to have to shovel out the barn.
Don't worry love, the weeks are passing by and we'll be back sooner than you think. You just keep making your Bard, and Percy and me proud.
Love to all in Dale,
Hil
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To Percy from Sigrid, Bain and Tilda:
Hi Uncle Percy,
It's your Sea Monsters, here. We've been doing good. Rhys lives with us, and it's worked out fine. I think Bain likes not being outnumbered by girls anymore! Ha Ha.
Don't worry, we're making sure Auntie Hil gets her rest. She's gone with me a couple of times to see Rhian and now that this whole business with Rhys's grandma has been dealt with, things are much more peaceful.
We love you very much, and look after Da and Tauriel and all the rest of the people there.
Love,
Sigrid
.
Uncle Percy!
We do a lot with our sword work and Rhys is better than me at archery! He loves his room with us. Esta used to sleep with me, but when Rhys came, she went with him, because he was upset. I don't mind. I think she wants to take care of him, and she is making him feel better.
I am looking after my sisters like you want. Tilda hasn't had any more bad dreams, but I think Sigrid is. I heard her crying the other night. I was afraid to ask why, but I think she might have had a bad dream or something.
I can't wait to see how you fixed up Dale. Are you guys going to fix that carousel in the Market?
Can't wait to see you again.
Bain
.
Deer Uncle Percy,
Uncle Galion told me he likes it that yoo you call me Litle Little Bean. I like him. He is nise nice. I am suposd supposed to try to spell gooder better.
I have my own dest! I am his assitent ade he told me. But I hav to have to pracis practice my spelling. It is hard! Do yoo think my letters are better? I hoop hope so, but drawing Pitures are funner.
I love yoo,
Your little Been (really Tilda)
Heer is piture one of Esta are dawg. She is blak black and white and nice.
.
To Tauriel from Thranduil:
Suilad Gwinïg,
With regards to your inheritance, Iellig, the honor is mine. You are a daughter of Kings, Tauriel, and you have only received that which you deserve.
I think, if the Queen had not died, she would have taken you for our own, just as Galion and I did. Someday, you will meet her in Valinor, and I know she will embrace you with love and tenderness. I also look forward to meeting your birth parents in Valinor, and sharing with them the many stories of your childhood with us.
When we spoke of your birth parents, it occurred to me that perhaps some in the villages surrounding yours might have made your parent's acquaintance. I shall make inquiries, because I am interested to know more, as well. I know your father's name was Neldor and your mother's name was Solana, and I would meet everyone from that village while during my Autumn Tour.
I recall them with you as an infant. Your mother had the same color hair as you do, now, and you look like your father around the eyes. They seemed a happy couple and clearly loved you very much. I did not have much of a chance to make further acquaintance, as the village leader, Tasar carried out his duties with skill and excellence and there was very little need for me to intervene in many matters there.
Gwinïg, our parents loved you enough to protect you, even at the cost of their own lives. Your parents' bravery reminded me of Legolas's mother, who also gave her life to protect her child. Someday I will tell you about it, but not now, Iellig; and tell you more about her.
I remember the first moment I met you: You were terrified and crying when the Guard placed you in my arms, and you suddenly stopped when you looked at me. Something about your calm, trusting eyes pierced my heart. The next thing I knew, I had you in front of me, wrapped in my cloak, as we were riding back to the Palace.
Since then, Tauriel, you have enriched our lives; with your laughter, your little pranks, and then with your dedicated service to our people.
Much love to you and Farien. I look forward to seeing you soon.
Mil, Ada
P.S. Tilda just came in and said something about a secret compartment in your room, and she gave me a picture you drew for me when you were small. Gwinïg, it broke my heart to think this is what you saw when you were so little. I can only say, again, how glad I am that we are closer.
.
To Brandir, Ruler of Dorwinian, from Thranduil, King of the Woodland Realm:
Greetings Lord Brandir,
I hope this letter finds you and your people well during this harsh winter.
As you know, Bard, formerly of Laketown, has been made King of Dale, as he is the legitimate heir of Girion. For now, Dale is under my protection, and is also being aided by Erebor, in hopes that the Three Northern Kingdoms shall unite in strength against the fiercest of enemies. It is our further hope that all these efforts might benefit your land, with additional protection and aid from the East, should the need arise.
On a more personal note, as I am sure you have already heard, Bard has recently become my Consort, and I have become his, during a private ceremony held in Dale last month. At this time, I am hosting the women, children and other vulnerable folk from Dale, to help them avoid the harsh winter temperatures.
If you would be so kind as to grant me a personal request, I would be in your debt. I have learned that Bard's late wife, Matilda, daughter of Bain, was from your area. I am hoping to locate some of Matilda's extended family to might possess a painting or a likeness of her.
If you could locate such an item, I beg you to allow me to borrow it for a brief time, so we can make copies for her children to keep. The older children, remember her and miss her very much, but our youngest, who is just seven years of age, has no memory of her dear mother, and we would like her to see and honor the woman who sacrificed all to bring her into this world.
Everything I have heard about Matilda, shows that she was a woman of virtue, quality and strength, and I have been told her father, Bain was an honorable and good man.
I thank you for your kind attention in this matter, and look forward to more of your excellent wines in the years to come.
Regards,
Thranduil, Son of Oropher, King of the Woodland Realm
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To Alun of Dale from his son, Rhys:
Dear Da:
I don't live with Grandma and Aunt Iona anymore. I am sorry they caused so much trouble for everybody. I feel bad. But King Thranduil told me that it wasn't my fault and I shouldn't worry about it. I'm trying not to, but it's hard sometimes. I don't see them anymore, nobody does. I hope they're not hurt or anything. But Lady Hilda promises me they are not hurt.
I am living with Bain and his sisters, and I like it. They are fun, and their dog likes me a lot, too, and wants to always lick my face. And we spend time with the King and Lady Hilda in the evenings. They are both very nice.
I'm doing good in school, I'm even learning Sindarin. The archery is going good too. I'm better than Bain, but not for long. I like reading the books that Lord Galion picks out for me from the King's library. You should see it, Dad! I've never seen so many books ever!
I can't wait for you to visit, so I can show you all over the Palace, and the barracks and the barns. I know Dale will be great, but this is so different, and I like it very much. I hope we'll have books like that someday, in our house, like we used to.
I feel much better, Dad. I was mad at Bain for telling on me, but now I'm not. He really helped me, and he is my best friend.
I can't wait to see you, Da!
Your loving son,
Rhys
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To Alun of Dale, from Thranduil:
Greetings, Alun, son of Alwyn, of Dale:
I am honored that you would entrust the welfare of your son to me, and I vow to do my utmost to see him as safe and happy as I can.
I spoke with your son as soon as I received your custody papers, and upon interviewing the boy, Lady Bronwyn and I took him to see our Healer-in-Residence, Elénaril. I am sorry to say, he had bruises and marks all over his back, buttocks, and the upper part of his legs, as well as one of his upper arms. We discovered no evidence of any other injuries.
You will be relieved to know your son is now comfortable. The details of Rhys's examination and treatment plan are enclosed, and he should be finished with his prescribed course of treatment within two days.
So far, your son's overall spirits seem to be good, but I am watching for signs of emotional distress, and will do my best to help with that, should the need arise. I know he is looking forward to your visit, and I am glad you are able to make the trip.
I am sorry to have to report such difficult news, regarding the extent of your son's abuse, but please know that everything is being done to ensure his safety and well-being.
Should you have further concerns, or have information that might assist me in taking care of your son, please feel free to write me, and I shall see it done.
I thank you for the privilege of caring for your son.
Thranduil, Son of Girion, King of the Woodland Realm
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To Tauriel from Sigrid:
Dear Tauriel,
Don't worry, we are giving Uncle Galion plenty of hugs, especially Tilda. You can tell he loves it. And she always makes sure to kiss him on the cheek when she leaves his study, and calls him Uncle. Galion smiles all the time now! I think he's going to be sad when we leave here.
We found that secret hiding place you were telling us about. It wasn't empty. There were some really pretty stones, a small book written in Tengwar, and a book that looks like some sort of diary. There wasn't much written in it, and anyway it's also in Tengwar, so don't worry about us reading it, because we don't understand it at all. There was a picture of Ada, with a tear on his face, and you giving him a flower. Was he really that sad, all the time?
I'm sorry to tell you that Tilda gave Ada the picture before I could tell her not to. Oh, Tauriel, you should have seen his face! Tilda thought she upset him, and but he made himself cheer up, to make her feel better.
He misses you a lot. I know he misses Legolas, too. He doesn't say why Legolas isn't here anymore, and neither do you, so I won't ask. Whatever it is, I hope things get better. We're all one family and I want us to be happy.
Love from your sister,
Sigrid
P.S. I am sending your diary to Dale, so you can have it.
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To Tauriel from Bain:
Tauriel!
I'm playing a lot of Stratagem with Rhys, so I will be able to play you when we come home. I'm getting really good at archery. At least I think so. I don't want to upset Da, but I think I like the sword better! Rhys and I spar a little bit. He's living with us now! Thranduil and Auntie Hil got him right out of there and he's doing so much better, thanks to you, I know. And don't worry. Rhys didn't stay mad for long. Now he's glad I told and we are best friends.
I have to practice writing and spelling a lot, Galion says so too. He says I'm a good speller but my writing is awful, so there's this book about Dale and all its Kings, so I have to copy three pages of that every day. At first, I hated it, but I like the book, now. It's good to know what happened before in Dale. And these were all my grandfathers!
Keep looking after Da, Uncle Percy and everybody else. I saw Feren's wife with those two little girls they adopted, and they look really happy, especially Old Gruffudd.
Your brother,
Bain
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To Tauriel from Tilda:
Dear Tarriel,
I am good. Sigrid is helping me wit with my letter becawse Galion and Ada have a meetig meeting. I am trying to spell words rite right, like Uncle Galion wants me too to.
I am sowry sorry I made Ada sad. I gave him your pixture picture about a flowr flower.
Pleez Please do not be mad. He says I dident do wrong and so does Sigrid. And I gave him a hug sayed said it was from you. He huged me back real hard.
Love your little sister,
Tilda
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To Percy from Hilda:
Hello my husband,
Well, we did it. Those bitches are locked up and they have no chance to spread that horrible poison anymore. I must tell you, once those two were removed from the rest of the people in Dale, EVERYBODY felt better. It's like a cloud was lifted!
Most of my days consist of meeting with the new families and checking their progress. Thranduil's little assignment for Tilda, to have her listen to the children, was the smartest thing he could have done, and I'll tell you why:
That family of five that I was speaking to you about before? Remember, the oldest was almost seventeen? I would never had known it, had their youngest not mentioned to Tilda that her big sister is angry at the whole situation. Our Little Bean did as she was asked and went straight to the King, so we could fix it.
Bronwyn, Galion and I went to the adoptive parents and the oldest girl. Seems she resents them a little and was afraid they're trying to take over the younger ones. Galion has a way of getting down to the truth of things, when he speaks to people, and he's good at soothing hard tempers. (He must have had a lot of practice with Thranduil, but don't tell anyone I told you that!)
Seems the mother died in the fires, and their father was killed in the Battle. That morning before you all went to the field in front of Erebor, he made her promise to take care of the younger ones. Galion thinks that promise was what kept her going when we were in the camp, and she has a hard time letting that go. She thought she was failing her Da if she didn't do it by herself. That poor girl; she was a right mess.
For the next few weeks, we are all going to meet to help her work through it. Once the girl feels better about things, then all will be well, I think.
I'm getting a lot of knitting done. Sigrid showed me the pair of socks she made you, and here is a pair from me.
With much love,
Your Hilda
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To Bard, King of Dale, from Mona and Lynne:
Dear King Bard,
Thank you for your kindness in releasing us from Ina and Iola's service officially. They had been trying to make us come back to work for them, saying we had four more years, but me and Mona decided that we could make our own future, just like everybody else here.
King Thranduil himself, and they gave us the papers you made for us, and they were very kind. The King and Lady Hilda promised us we were free, and all we had to worry about was to try and learn to read and write and learn weaving like we planned to.
We are asking Bronwyn to write this for us, because we wanted to make sure to say thank you. You're a good King.
Regards,
X Mona's Mark
X Lynne's Mark
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ELVEN TRANSLATIONS:
Gi suilanthon, Indis – I give greetings to you, Indis
Gwinïg – "Little fingers" a pet name for Tauriel when she was a baby, because she got into everything.
Dagornaw – Chess. In Westron it's called "Stratagem"
Meleth nîn - my love
Ci velethron e-guil nîn – You are the love of my life
Hervenn nîn – my husband