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Chapter 28
Evie POV
"You left early this morning."
"mmmmmm."
A large hand was placed on her arm to halt her progress and she turned to face the tall elf to her right.
"Last night you seemed distracted."
She bit her lip, undecided and feeling unsure about the new knowledge she had obtained the day before.
"Talk to me, my love. What's troubling you?"
Evie raised her eyes to lock gazes with the platinum haired elf, his vivid eyes full of concern, but waiting for her to speak.
She closed her eyes as she took a deep breath, not sure how to voice her thoughts, and unashamedly let tears fall silently down her cheeks, her inner suffering breaking free.
She jumped when she felt warm hand on her face, wiping away the wetness and opened her eyes.
"You're scaring me now. Has someone harmed you?" The voice was gentle, but understandably upset.
She shook her head 'no' and lifted a hand to hold the hands cupping her face.
"You're going to leave me."
There, she'd said it. She took a lungful of air as pure astonishment crossed the elven face.
"Where did you get such a fanciful idea?"
"Lord Elrond told me that the elves will sail…"
She trailed off as she saw the anger on her beloved's face. She knew he would never hurt her intentionally, but she took a small step back, not usually at the receiving end of his infamous temper.
She saw a flash of hurt cross his face and regretted her small action, but gasped as he turned without another word, stalking with intent back down the path they'd travelled, his face like thunder.
Drying her tear quickly, she picked up her skirts and moved to go after him, cursing her shorter legs which stopped her from being able to keep up. Slightly breathless, she urged her legs to go faster, but was stopped by Feren as she tried to run pass.
"My Queen, what is the matter? Why does My King look so murderous?"
She tried to gulp down as much air as possible as she tried to explain.
"Lord Elrond…please…we must hurry!"
And she took hold of his arm and pulled him along with her, not caring how undignified it was for a Queen to run through the Lord's halls. She heard the loud yelling from around the corner and pulled the Captain harder as they neared.
"What right do you have telling my wife such things!?"
"Forgive me, but I thought you would have already discussed it."
"It's my business whether we discuss it or not."
"I disagree King Thranduil, it is common knowledge, she would have found out sooner or later."
"Regardless, it is not your place. You have caused her needless hurt by insinuating that I am going to leave her behind."
The pair arrived in the doorway to the study that the two elven leaders were having their disagreement and wisely observed without interfering. Both males were on their feet, for Elrond had stood up from his chair and had his hand resting on the desk. On the other side was a seething Elvenking, his gaze relentless and unforgiving.
"Well, I don't know what you're going to do. She is not an elf."
"I am well aware of this fact, but she is not mortal either."
Seeing that the conversation had lost its dangerous edge and thinking that the two leaders might prefer to continue this without an audience, Evie placed her hand on the Captain's arm and slowly retreated, beckoning him to follow her.
Thranduil POV
Thranduil, knowing his distraught wife was nearby due to the swirling fear and upset she unknowingly was sending down their bond, saw her leave the doorway, taking his dark haired Captain with her. He flinched internally at the fear that had cursed through her, but put it aside, knowing he would console her later in private.
"You have researched this."
"Extensively."
"And?"
He took a moment to move to the door and close it, before seating himself in the comfortable armchair by the fireplace. He saw the elf Lord cross to a table nearby and pour a glass of caramel coloured liquid, before turning to hand one to him, and taking the other unoccupied seat.
"My most experienced scholar hunted every book in the Greenwood's library and found very little written about the fate of Elementals. The most recent mention was a brief paragraph about a male with incredible golden power during a dark time, but that was an Age ago and no mention of him dying or otherwise."
He took a swig of the liquid, enjoying the burn as it went down his throat.
"Would you allow me to do some research on the subject for you?"
"I will allow it."
"Good. She has incredible power…"
"yes."
"And she doesn't yet know how much. It is a gift. One others will kill for."
"It has crossed my mind. Evangeline is one of the most important things in my life and I will protect her from any threats…"
He held up his hand to silence the dark haired elf when he went to speak.
"She is not a weak woman, but she loves fiercely and what you said to her made her biggest fear feel like a certainty. I will not tolerate any talk of my leaving her. Surely you understand this?"
"of course. It was not my intention to cause any harm to her, but I will be more careful in future. But there is a learning for you in this too, my friend, for all things come to the surface eventually and she deserves to hear these things from you."
"I will concede to that point, and she will give me hell for it too."
A smile found its way onto his face at the thought, but he arched a brow at the laughing elf beside him.
"What do you find so amusing, Elrond?"
"This is a side to you I have not seen for an Age. I am happy for you and Evangeline. She is a perfect match for you."
"Well, we have Legolas to thank for her presence. Did you see it?"
"Yes. And I'm pleased that you chose to pursue it."
He narrowed his eyes at this comment.
"Why is that?"
"Can't I just be happy for you?"
"No, with you, there is always an alternative agenda."
"You wound me with your words Thranduil. But yes, you are correct. I fear there is an evil growing in your forest…ah, you know it."
He schooled his facial features to be neutral once again, annoyed he had let his control slip for a second time that day.
"Yes I know of it." His tone was clipped, not wanting to discuss it further.
He watched the other elf drink the last of the liquid in his crystal glass.
"I must go and find my wife."
He finished off his own glass, put it down and stood, making for the door. His hand was on the handle when he heard Elrond speak softly.
"You will need her help to vanquish it. Encourage her to train her magic and protect her with your life."
He didn't turn around to respond or raise his voice, for he knew the elf would hear him clearly.
"Always."
And then he opened the door and left without a backwards glance, his focus now on finding his beloved and hoping she would forgive his behaviour.
Evie POV
She was strolling, arm in arm, with a thoughtful Feren along a path lined with colourful blooms when she felt a warm hand close on hers and he chose to speak up.
"Are you well, My Queen?"
She reached her empty hand up to pat his softly.
"Yes, Captain."
"Would you care to share with me what the argument between Lord Elrond and My King was about?"
"Not right now, later. I must speak with Thranduil first."
"Very well."
They turned a corner and found themselves on a vast grassed lawn, garden tables and chairs set up. She smiled warmly upon seeing the Lady of Imaldris waving them over."
"Good Morn, Queen Evangeline, Lord Feren."
She waved a dismissive hand "Please, call me Evie."
"Very well, you must call me Celebrain then."
She smiled and nodded her ascent at this request.
"Join me for some tea?"
"I would love to."
"Captain?"
"I'm afraid not this time, I have to meet with my warriors. My Queen, My lady, please excuse me."
She smiled at the polite elf as he bowed to both ladies and walked back the way they had come.
She sat in a chair to the blond elf's left, enjoying the peace of the garden and letting the sun warm her face.
"You look lovely today, Evie."
"An improvement on the day we arrived." She laughed softly and was happy when the other elf joined in.
"indeed. How are you liking the city?"
"It is so beautiful. Full of life. Your people are so kind."
"I'm pleased to hear this. Not many have had much to do with humans. You fascinate them."
She raised her eyebrows at this in disbelief.
"Me? Why?"
"You are different. Very unique. And…well, they are all very curious about how you managed to thaw the heart of the ruthless Woodland King."
She giggled at this, for the imagine was not far wrong at times.
"It wasn't all smooth sailing, I assure you."
"But it is clear to see that he loves you."
She couldn't help but smile at this, pleased that other could see it.
"As I love him."
"Love is precious and it brings me joy to see others embrace it."
"Have you and Elrond been together very long?"
"Yes, but it took him long enough to court me."
She liked the sound of the giggling elleth next to her, intrigued by the couple's story.
"oh?"
"I think he was worried about how my Adar and Naneth would react to the notion more so than me."
"You parents were strict?"
"Not really, no, they are the Lord and Lady of the Golden Wood."
"Your Naneth is Lady Galadriel?"
"Thranduil did not tell you?"
"To be fair, there is a lot of elvish history…"
"Yes, this is true. Yes, the Lady of Light is my Naneth. I think he have been intimidated."
"I can imagine."
"In the end I asked him outright on one of his visits if he was going to court me or not."
"I see. And it worked?"
"Oh yes, he went directly to visit my parents. We courted for ten years, then a year of betrothal, and we married in Lothlorien."
"How sweet. And your children are lovely."
The golden haired elleth laughed heartily at this.
"Arwen is indeed lovely, Elladan and Elrohir however, keep up on our toes. Legolas seems to like their company."
She laughed at this observation and found she had to agree. Before she could speak though, she heard a crashing noise to their right and watched in stunned silence as three male elflings, two identical with dark hair and one with platinum locks, entered the garden armed with wooden swords, completely unaware of their audience.
Evie watched her little Prince duck and weave, swishing his sword to block incoming attacks and move occasionally on the offence, feeling rather proud. She gasped and stood quickly when she saw a leg trip him up and he crashed into one of the twins, their limbs entwined as the feel to the ground.
"Get off me, Princeling."
"Oi, that was cheating."
"No, you lost, fair and square."
"I did not, I know Elrohir tripped me."
"Did not."
"Did too."
"Did not."
She had to cover her mouth with her hand to stifle the giggles at the young one's antics and was glad when the elleth next to her spoke up.
"Children. That's enough."
Three heads whipped up to look at the women watching with their arms crossed.
"Elladan, Elrohir, go and find Lindir and ask him to organise some Lunch for our guests to be served here."
"Yes, Naneth." They responded in union.
"Legolas, honey, come here."
She watched the little elf walk to her and drew him into her embrace for a cuddle. She sighed, it had been too long since she had such affection from him, being too occupied by their hosts. She rested her chin on his blonde head, her arms connected around his middle.
"What mischief have you been up to today?"
"None."
She laughed, as did the amused elf next to her.
"forgive me if I don't believe you, honey."
They were interrupted listening to Legolas' retelling of their attempt at making cookies in the kitchen by the arrival of the twins and two young elleths, laden with trays full of food and drink. She smiled at them in thanks, but was happy to leave the niceties to the Lady of Imaldris.
"Thank you, ladies. That will be all for now."
They spent their time picking at the delicacies and sipping tea, entertained by the elflings, who made a game out of stuffing their faces with cake. Feeling full, Evie turned her green eyes on the little Prince and ask if he'd like to walk the gardens with her.
"Yes, Naneth."
She stood and turned to the blonde Lady.
"Thank you for this, it has brightened my day."
She was surprised when the elf put her hands on her shoulders and kissed both her cheeks softly.
"No, thank you, Evie. I feel I have made a friend this day. Enjoy your walk, Prince."
Evie smiled at this, thinking how much she had enjoyed Celebrain's company and was pleased she had a female friend in this world.
She moved to take the little elf's hand and they strolled through the hedges and into the adjacent garden. She took a deep breath and hummed softly.
"I like it here Naneth."
"Me too, honey."
"But I also like being at home."
She laughed, the simplicity of a child's thoughts brought her joy.
"Is that your way of telling me you're ready to leave?"
"Not yet, but soon."
"I'm sure it won't be long. Your Adar -, her felt tight at the thought of the platinum elf, - Your Adar is nearly finished with his meetings I think."
The elfing next to her did not answer, but nodded and picked up the humming tune she had started. On they walked, enjoying the afternoon sun, the chirp of the birds and the bright blooms surrounding them. Feeling a bit tired, she let go of the small hand she held and went to sit at the base of large tree, her back against the trunk and her legs stretched out in front of her.
She opened her arms for the elfling to cuddle up into her soft curves and closed her eyes as she hummed him to sleep.
Thranduil POV
He had been looking for her for hours and felt rather frustrated to come up empty in his search. It didn't help that he had been stopped by various elves in the city on his travel, and even coerced into having lunch with Glorfindel.
Sensing his impatience rise, he quickened his steps through the last garden he had yet to check. He stopped abruptly when his blue eyes focused on the pair asleep at the base of a large tree. The little elf was cured into the woman's side, his platinum blonde hair splayed over the soft pink bodice of the dress. The very sight of his young son peacefully curled up into the embrace of his red headed wife was enough to make his heart melt. Love for both came crashing to the surface unrestrained.
Trying not to disturb them, he walked forward a few steps before taking a seat next to the sleeping duo. In that moment, he felt at peace and free from the burdens that plagued him. In this space, they were a family and that's it.
He felt rather than saw the little elf shift slightly, his blue eyes blinking away the remains of sleep. He saw the joy instantly light up his face when he saw the male elf.
"Ada!"
"Shhhh, little leaf, you do not want to wake her."
He smiled as he watched his son grow sheepish, but very carefully extracted himself from the woman's arms and launched himself at the older elf. Thranduil of course had no issues catching Legolas and held him tight.
"How was your day Ada?"
"Full of boring meetings. I'm sure yours has been much more fun?"
"Oh, yes! Elladan, Elrohir and I spent the morning in the kitchens…"
He listened attentively as his son chattered about the escapades of the day, chuckling when he described their sparring session that the twin had cheated into winning. Both elves turned their identical blue eyes to the red headed woman that had started to stir. Thranduil whispered into his son's ear quietly.
He watched with a warm smile as his little leaf peppered the woman's face with kisses.
"Wake up, Naneth!"
"hhhhhmmmm, I'm up…what are you doing to me?"
Thranduil thought her laughter in that moment was the most beautiful thing he had ever heard and coupled with his son's giggles, it was a sight for sore eyes. He chuckled as her green eyes focused on him over the top of the little elf's head, but saw her move them to Legolas once more and swooped in to give him a big kiss on his cheek.
They both laughed as Legolas' pulled away and wiped his cheek with exaggerated movements.
"It's only fair, honey."
It was then they all looked up, hearing the dinner bell ringing from the main hall. The little Prince smiled wide and took off down the path until he was lost by the hedges, calling over his shoulder.
"Don't want to be late!"
He saw the woman smile at the retreating form, but then frowned as the smile dropped. Without hesitation, he moved towards her and cupped her face gently.
"I'm sorry."
He saw surprise in the green eyes and let him shame wash over him for his earlier behaviour to her.
"I shouldn't have lost my temper."
"I understand why…"
He silenced her by placing a finger against her lips.
"Listen to me. It tore me up inside to see you so fearful and upset because of me. Elrond was right, I should have discussed the issue with you before now, but I want you to know that I have no intentions of leaving you. Ever. You mean everything to me and I can't bare the thought of us apart, even for a day. I will protect you always."
He bent his head to kiss away the tears falling freely and then down to capture her lips in a soft lingering kiss.
I love you
As I love you
He pulled back and gazed into her green orbs, so full of love.
"Are we ok?"
The smile she gave him was the most lovely one he'd ever received from her.
"Yes. - but we need to get one thing straight."
"What's that?"
"I was never frightened of you."
He felt his lips creep up.
"Don't tell anyone that, it will ruin my reputation."
He pulled her to her feet and made sure to hold on to her delicate hand, bringing it up to his lips for a kiss.
"Would My Lady allow me the honour of escorting her to dinner?"
He laughed when she made a display of being thoughtful for a moment, playing with him.
"I couldn't say no to a King."
His heart soared when she stepped forward, raised up to her tippytoes and pressed her lips to his firmly and all he did was take hold of her waist with both hands and draw her more firmly into his embrace, wishing to never let go.