Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to Lord of the Rings and derive no income for the writing of this story.
A/N: Here you are my dears, the long-awaited lengthy chapter. Hopefully you can forgive me for the wait. This chapter and the next are very important in terms of plot development and it has taken me a long while to write it as I desired. Not to mention the job I am currently working has me staring at a computer all day and it has been quite hard for me to come home and get on the computer and stare at a screen even if it is for my beloved story. Hopefully you will enjoy this chapter and can forgive me the long amount of time. If so, do me a favor and let me know with a review. Things should move more smoothly from now on. Thanks so much for your patience and kind reviews!
Chapter 19: Treehuggers
We had not been walking long before the sun sank below the horizon, causing the lengthening of great shadows on the mountainsides, and the mist began creeping into the surrounding landscape and swirling about the hollows. Now that Sam and Frodo had been tended to we were able to travel at a fair pace and continued for nearly three more hours with only a single break.
It was dark and deep in the night when I heard Gimli and Frodo's whispered conversation. I was not really paying attention until I heard Gimli ask, "What is it?" (1)
"I don't know," Frodo answered. "I thought I heard feet, and I thought I saw a light- like eyes. I have thought so often since we first entered Moria." (1) I shivered. Gollum always weirded me out and I was hoping I never ran into the creepy critter. Suddenly, Legolas was at my side and I had a guess as to why.
"Did you hear Gimli and Frodo speaking?" he whispered lowly in Elvish so only I could hear. At my hesitant nod, he drew a deep breath and continued, "Are we being followed?" I closed my eyes for a moment, grimacing a little. What to say? He had already guessed the truth of the matter so it was not like there was much of a secret to keep. With a resigned sigh I answered just as quietly, "Yes."
"Who-"
I gave a frantic shake of my head. "We cannot speak of this here, you know that. Suffice it to say they are not an imminent threat to us and will cause us no harm at present."
Legolas sighed in resignation before looking at me sharply. "At present?" he queried. Oops, I thought. I should have known he would catch that. Damn Gollum. I did not like thinking about how he was haunting our steps, biding his time.
"At present," I repeated meeting his gaze.
We walked on in silence, but a sound was carried to us by the chill night-wind that brought me some comfort. I looked to the wide grey shadow that loomed before us and then at Legolas who was grinning like a child who had just reached Disneyland and had to smile.
"Lothlórien!" Legolas cried. "Lothlórien! We have come to the eaves of the Golden Wood. Alas that it is winter!" (1) He turned to me excitedly and I squeezed his hand, doing my best to be happy despite my anxiety. I was about to meet with the Galadriel, which was intimidating enough without having to deal with my weird sense of foreboding. I squeezed his hand, but it must have been half-hearted because he fixed me with one of those searching gazes that made me feel like cheap glass and I could tell he was wondering what was running through my head.
We reached the forest, the chill night wind stirring our clothes and hair and making the leaves rustle. In the dim light the massive silver trunks of the tress could be seen, as well as the leaves which shone a fallow gold. Relief warred with dread inside me. I was really looking forward to being able to rest for awhile without worrying about danger or dying. But Almira's sneeze was still foremost in my thoughts. How had that happened? And worse, would I like the answer if we found it? Those who came before us, Eruanna and Malthenwen, lived here. What would they be able to tell us about our unexpected appearance in this world and the reason behind it? Did I want to know? My excitement at being safe was muted by my anxiety of what would be discovered. Thus I was not surprised when Legolas turned to me at the border of Lothlórien, and I espied the concern mingled with joy in his eyes. He knew something was bothering me.
"Lothlórien!" said Aragorn, commanding our attention. "Glad am I to hear again the wind in the trees! We are still little more than five leagues from the Gates, but we can go no further. Here let us hope that the virtue of the Elves will keep us tonight from the peril that comes behind." (1)
"If Elves indeed still dwell here in the darkening world," said Gimli.
"It is long since any of my own folk journeyed hither back to the land whence we wandered in ages long ago," said Legolas, "but we hear that Lórien is not yet deserted, for there is a secret power here that holds evil from the land. Nevertheless its folk are seldom seen, and maybe they dwell now deep in the woods and far from the border." (1) I gave an inward sigh of relief. I did not since a trace of the usual annoyance coming from him that he generally had when dealing with Gimli. It would be nice to have them on friendly, not frosty, terms finally.
"Indeed deep in the wood they dwell," said Aragorn, and sighed as if some memory stirred in him. "We must fend for ourselves tonight. We will go forward a short way, until the trees are all about us, and then we will turn aside from the path and seek a place to rest in." (1)
We all began walking at that point, until we realized Boromir was not walking with us. I sighed as Aragorn assured him that Lórien was not as perilous as it seemed.
"Boromir better get over his fears quick," Almira whispered in Elvish. "I want to sleep in a soft bed as soon as possible and I won't be held responsible for my actions should any stand in my way.
I gave a soft laugh. "Fear not, I will not judge."
"Then lead on!" we heard Boromir say, and smiled. "It appears he is safe for now," said Almira as we began walking again. Silence descended upon us as we traveled further into the forest. It was the kind of place, like a library, where you felt it would be inappropriate to do more than whisper if you must talk at all.
We had gone little more than a mile when we reached the Nimrodel where it met the Silverlode. I could hear the sound of the rushing water and had a hard time believing I was actually here.
"Here is Nimrodel!" said Legolas. "Of this stream the Silvan Elves made many songs long ago, and still we sing them in the North, remembering the rainbow on its falls, and the golden flowers that floated in its foam. All is dark now and the Bridge of Nimrodel is broken down. I will bathe my feet, for it is said that the water is healing to the weary." (1) I could feel the excitement in him as he grabbed my hand and went forward and climbed down the deep-cloven bank, all the while pulling me along. Guess, I was going to get my feet wet too, whether I liked it or not. He released my hand as he removed his boots, and then stepped into the stream. "Follow me!" he cried, motioning to the others who had not gone with us. "The water is not deep. Let us wade across! On the further bank we can rest, and the sound of the falling water may bring us sleep and forgetfulness of grief." (1) He waved me on rather impatiently and I hurriedly finished removing my boots and rolling up my leggings. He quickly took my hand as I joined him in the stream and pulled me out into the river until we reached the middle and he paused. We stood there for a moment as the others slowly made there way down the bank and the sound of their movements mingled with that of the water.
"Do you feel it?" Legolas asked me. I could only nod; such was my wonder at the feel of the cold water flowing across my feet. To say it was soothing would be a grievous understatement. I felt as if I had never traveled at all and the all grief I suffered was a distant memory.
"This is incredible," I whispered, finding my voice. Legolas smiled at me tenderly, and pressed a chaste kiss to my lips before beginning to wade across the river, the others starting to enter the stream. I heard their gasps at the cold and then its power. I looked back as I reached the opposite shore and saw Frodo just standing in the water. He had a peaceful expression on his face I had not seen since Imladris. He met my eyes and gave me a small smile which I returned before he started moving again breaking our gaze. I sat down beside Legolas to pull on my boots. "It is good to see him smile," he said quietly and I nodded. We finished and he stood then pulled me to my feet as the rest of the Company reached the shore. We moved a few feet from the bank and there we sat and rested and ate a little food. I sat next to Legolas, who was leaning against one of the trees, and when we had finished I moved into his embrace so that I was leaning with my back against his side and his left arm went across my shoulder and his hand rested on my bent knee.
"Would you care to hear a tale of the Golden Wood my people still tell and carried with them through the ages?" Legolas asked me softly, and I nodded, eyes closed in contentment before a thought occurred to me.
"Will you speak in the Common Tongue? I am sure the Company would care to hear it as well," I said, remembering that Legolas had done so in the novel and wondered a tad uneasily if he would have done so if I were not here. Of course he would have, I assured myself. Obviously he wanted to tell it and would have done so to someone else if I were not here.
He nodded. "That was my intention. Besides, they would hear it whether they wanted to or not," he stated dryly. He addressed the company and asked them the same question and they all readily agreed. For some time he told us tales that his people kept in their hearts, of sunlight and starlight upon the meadows by the Great River before the world was grey. (1)
When he fell silent, the melodious sound of the water flowing over the waterfall dominated the space previously held by his voice. It was then that I realized I could hear what sounded like a soft, feminine voice intermingled with the music of the water.
"Do you hear the voice of the Nimrodel?" asked Legolas. "I will sing you a song of the maiden Nimrodel, who bore the same name as the stream beside which she lived long ago. It is a fair song in our woodland tongue; but this is how it runs in the Westron Speech, as some in Rivendell now sing it." (1) He began quietly, but soon his dulcet voice filled our space by the river and if I had not been half in love with him already I most certainly was now. It was the first time I had heard him sing and I hoped it would not be the last. I was entranced and when his voice faltered and the song ceased I knew a great sense of disappointment.
"I cannot sing any more," he said. "That is but a part, for I have forgotten much. It is long and sad, for it tells how sorrow came upon Lothlórien, Lórien of the Blossom, when Dwarves awakened evil in the mountains."
"But the Dwarves did not make the evil," said Gimli. I saw Almira roll her eyes and smiled softly.
"I said not so; yet evil came," answered Legolas sadly. (1) My gaze wandered to the rustling leaves above me as I half-listened to Legolas speak of Nimrodel and her separation from her lover Amroth. And I wondered how I would fair if Legolas and I were to endure such a fate. There was no denying that either one of us could meet our end on this quest. And seeing as Legolas was nearly invincible and I was only some sort of wannabe warrior, it would most likely be me that would bite it. Not for the first time, part of me felt that it was unwise to have formed an attachment with a major player in the war for Middle Earth. There was much Legolas had to do, if I died and he faded the results could be disastrous. But the other part knew there was really no turning back now. As I afraid as I was to admit it, even to myself, I was pretty much in love with his highness. And the thought of separating myself from him was painful and I knew I did not have the strength of will to do such a thing, especially since it was the last thing I wanted. Besides, it was still uncertain if he felt as strongly as I did. I knew he cared about me, but whether he was in love with me was another matter. For all I knew, we might not last. In which case, all my worrying would be for naught. I sighed without realizing I had done so.
"Kate?" Legolas voice snapped me out of my thoughts and I realized that the Company was standing and preparing to move and find shelter. "Are you well?"
"I am fine," I replied almost automatically, giving him a wan smile. He did not seem entirely convinced but for whatever reason he chose not to pursue the matter and instead rose and helped me to my feet. We moved away from the path and deeper into the woods. We had not gone far when we came to a cluster of trees with massive trunks, though I could not tell how tall they were.
"I will climb up," said Legolas. "I am at home among trees, by root or bough, though these trees are of a kind strange to me, save as a name in song. Mellyrn they are called, and are those that bear the yellow blossom, but I have never climbed in one. I will now see what is their shape and way of growth." (1)
"Whatever it may be," said Pippin, "they will be marvelous trees indeed if they can offer any rest at night, except to birds. I cannot sleep on a perch!" (1)
"Then dig a hole in the ground," said Legolas, "if that is more after the fashion of your kind. But you must dig swift and deep, if you wish to hide from Orcs." With that, he turned towards the tree and catching my eye gave me a wink, before leaping up and grabbing a branch high above his head. I waited and sure enough after only a moment, I heard a hard, male voice say "Daro!" in a commanding tone. Legolas dropped from the branch and Almira jumped. Legolas shrank back against the bole of the tree. (1)
"Stand still!" he whispered to us. "Do not move or speak." I could sense the others fear and stared at the ground to hide a smile as the sound of soft laughter reached us and the others fear slowly gave way to confusion. As Legolas conversed with the Elves above us I felt someone looking at me. I glanced up and met Aragorn's gaze. He quirked an eyebrow at me curiously, a small smile on his lips, subtly inquiring if I even knew about this. I gave him a smug smile and his grew ever so slightly before Legolas' voice commanded our attention. (1)
"Yes, they are Elves," said Legolas in response to Sam's question; "and they say that you breathe so loud that they could shoot you in the dark." Poor Sam clapped his hand over his mouth as his eyes widened. "But they also say that you need have no fear. They have been aware of us for a long while. They heard my voice across the Nimrodel, and knew that I was one of their Northern kindred, and therefore they did not hinder our crossing; and afterwards they heard my song. Now they bid me climb up with Frodo; for they seem to have had some tidings of him and of our journey. The others they ask to wait a little, and to keep watch at the foot of the tree, until they have decided what is to be done." (1)
A ladder was dropped down and, with one last look at me, Legolas quickly began to climb and was just as quickly out of sight. Frodo hesitated a moment, and I was surprised when his gaze also turned to me. But reading the anxiety in his eyes I quickly understood. I gave him what I hoped was a reassuring smile and he nodded resolutely before climbing quickly up the ladder with Sam right behind him.
About fifteen minutes passed before Legolas returned and explained the sleeping arrangements. Merry and Pippin went to join Frodo and Sam, and the rest of us followed Legolas to another talan in a neighboring tree. We climbed up a similar rope ladder and by the time I reached the top I felt a very slight burn in my muscles. "Dude, this is like the über tree house," Almira said as she reached my side on the high flet.
"Game much?" I teased. She smiled sheepishly and shrugged. "I have a feeling that the city proper is going to be even more amazing, judging by what a simple flet looks like," I continued and she nodded in silent agreement. There was a light plaited screen, which could be moved about and set wherever it was needed to block the wind. A neat pile of fur cloaks occupied one corner and a small table with a steaming supper resided in the center of the flet and I felt my mouth begin to water as the scent of hot food tantalized my nose. We set down our stuff before encircling the small table and beginning our meal. It was a fairly quiet meal, and I could tell Gimli and Boromir still felt awkward around Almira and I. Aragorn did not seem to harbor any resentment or feelings of unease that I could tell, however he had warned Gandalf of the danger to be found in Moria and perhaps had a better understanding of our predicament. After our meal, we began to ready for bed. Legolas passed out furs and wool blankets as we set out our mats and within minutes I had nestled my way into a cocoon of snug bedding. I turned on my side to face Almira and said in a soft voice, "This is heavenly."
"I could stay here forever and be pretty satisfied," she replied, giving a contented sigh as she snuggled deeper under her covers.
I felt an arm slip around my waist and then Legolas' voice in my ear. "Thank you for setting up my bedding."
"You are welcome," I responded, tucking myself further into his embrace. "I could see being a Warden here. This is a wonderful way to camp out."
I felt Legolas chuckle. "Albeit this is quite comfortable, I am still partial to the ways of my people...which if we survive this, I hope you will accompany me to Mirkwood and discover for yourself," he stated softly.
The idea that he would be including me in his plans for the future caused my heart to do a funny little flip. Smiling, I turned and said teasingly, "Well if I am to make any sort of proper and informed decision, I must study the customs of Mirkwood as well," and then, as we shifted so I was tucked into his side, my head on his chest, I said more seriously, "It would give me great pleasure to go with you." He squeezed my side and dropped a kiss on top of my head in response. And as he lightly stroked my back I drifted into the first contented sleep I had had in days.
However it could have lasted a little longer, I thought grumpily as I felt someone, most likely Legolas, shaking me awake. "You are way too chipper in the mornings," I grumbled as I focused my eyes to find Legolas smiling down at me. He just rolled his eyes good-naturedly and helped me to my feet. As he folded up the bedding, I strapped on my weapons before climbing down to rejoin the rest of the company. We set out not long after that, biding the river farewell before returning to the path that ran along the west side of the Silverlode. We traveled on it for some way until Haldir turned off the path into the trees and halted near the river.
"There is one of my people yonder across the river," he said, "though you may not see him." He whistled then, a low whistle that had the sound of a bird, and an Elf stepped forward out of the trees on the opposite bank. Haldir then tossed a coil of grey rope across the stream, which the other elf caught and tied to one of the nearby trees. "Celebrant is already a strong stream here, as you see," said Haldir, "and it runs both swift and deep, and is very cold. We do not set foot in it so far north, unless we must. But in these days of watchfulness we do not make bridges. This is how we cross! Follow me!" (1) He tied his end of the rope to a tree and then ran across it over and back. And when he was standing in front of us once again I was pretty sure my mouth was hanging open. I heard Almira give a disbelieving huff and mutter, "Oh hell." I smiled and edged closer to her as Haldir explained how those who weren't elves were to travel across. "I may be an elf," I said, "but even so I don't know if I can cross as easy as he did without having spidey senses." She gave a snort of laughter, which she quickly covered into a cough at the others' questioning looks. "Tell me about it," she responded quietly as we began to line up to make our way across. I stepped lightly onto the rope and found it amazingly easy to balance. I started across, one hand ghosting along one of the higher ropes, and made it across without any incident.
"That was unreal," I whispered to Almira as she stepped onto the bank a few seconds later.
"I know," she replied, the awe still evident in her voice. "I didn't really even have to think about it…I just balanced." She gave an awkward shrug and I smiled reassuringly. I knew exactly what she meant. It was hard to explain how it felt to experience the differences between elves and humans firsthand. When we had all crossed the elves on our side untied the ropes, coiling two of them and Rumil, who had remained on the opposite shore, kept the third. With a wave he turned and began walking back the way we had come to return to his post. I looked over at Almira and noticed her staring in a rather longing manner at the retreating form of Rumil. Having felt my stare, she turned and met my gaze and I arched an eyebrow. She blushed and looked away with a roll of her eyes.
I checked back in just in time to hear Haldir say, "As was agreed, I shall here blindfold the eyes of Gimli the Dwarf. The others may walk free for awhile, until we come nearer to our dwellings, down in Egladil, in the angle between the waters."
As I watched the argument that ensued, I sighed. I was becoming impatient. I wanted to get to the city. My sense of foreboding had grown worse with every step we took further into the wood. I tensed as I saw Gimli draw his axe and Haldir and his companions bend their bows. And then sighed again in resignation when it was resolved we were all to be blindfolded. An ellon bearing a piece of folded cloth approached me smiling ruefully. "Forgive me, my lady," he said as I turned and he covered my eyes. The last thing I saw was Legolas glaring at the ellon behind me and I hid a smile.
"There is nothing to forgive," I replied simply. The mysterious ellon took my hand and began tugging me along and placed me in line. I joined hands with someone I thought was Almira. I could tell because their hands were soft and roughly my size. I was proved correct a moment later when a whispered, "Kate is that you?" reached my ears.
I squeezed her hand. "Yes."
The ellon who had blindfolded me had let go of my hand, but I could tell he was still behind me. "So," he said but a moment later, "I take it you are involved with his highness." I could hear the suppressed mirth in his tone and had to smile, obviously he did not miss Legolas' look earlier. I opened my mouth to speak but Legolas beat me to it. "Yes she is," he said in a flat voice that did not sound all that amused. I could feel Almira shaking with laughter and barely managed to contain mine.
"My felicitations," the ellon replied smoothly, and Legolas snorted. Though it was a very elegant snort, after all he was an elf. After that we lapsed into silence which lasted for the majority of our walk. As I felt the air cool, I knew evening approached. It was then that we stopped.
"Kate?" I turned towards Legolas voice.
"I'm here," I responded. "Oof," we chorused in unison as he bumped into me. We heard soft laughter and I felt my cheeks heat even as I gave a small laugh.
"This is getting ridiculous," Legolas said irritated.
I smiled and wrapped my arms around him. "I have a feeling it will be over soon," I whispered quietly.
"Oh you do, do you?" and I could hear the pleasure in his voice. "Thank Eru." We sat down, albeit awkwardly, and talked softly for awhile before falling asleep, eyes still bound. I felt Legolas stir and rise and knew it must be morning. I sat up and knocked into his hand. "Sorry my love," he said ruefully. "I was going to help you up." I just laughed and searched for his hands. And upon finding them he hauled me to my feet. We began traveling again and did not stop until noon. It was then another troop of elves came upon us. I did not hear them but felt Legolas tense. I once again thanked God I had Legolas on my side. Lord knows I'd be lost without him.
The new elves exchanged news with Haldir, and I grimaced when they made mention of a strange creature that I knew was Gollum. However, I smiled a moment later when it was announced we were to be allowed to walk free. I felt my blindfold being undone and turned to find the mysterious elf from before. I thanked him and he winked at me, before smiling cheekily at Legolas, who just rolled his eyes, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.
"Behold! You are come to Cerin Amroth," said Haldir. "For this is the heart of the ancient realm as it was long ago, and here is the mound of Amroth, where in happier days his high house was built. Here ever bloom the winter flowers in unfading grass: the yellow elanor, and the pale niphredil. Here we will stay awhile, and come to the city of the Galadhrim at dusk." (1)
Most of us cast ourselves down upon the ground. But I saw Aragorn wander off, Frodo and Sam went with Haldir up the hill of Cerin Amroth. It was crowned with two rings of trees; the first ring composed of leafless trees with white bark, the second of the great mallorn-trees. In the center was a towering tree that housed a flet, which Haldir and the two hobbits were presently heading towards.
I lay down next to Legolas and breathed in the fresh air, fragrant with the scent of the wildflowers around us. "If someone had told me one year ago I would be here, breathing in the scent of elanor and niphredil I would have called them crazy. I can't help but worry that any moment I'll wake up and realize this was all some sort of wonderful dream." I paused, swallowed hard. "I think it would break my heart," I finished softly.
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Legolas raise himself up on one elbow. I felt his fingers on my chin and then I was looking at him. "It is not a dream," he stated gently but firmly. I nodded and at my tentative smile, he continued impishly, "If you want, I could pinch you just so you could be sure." I laughed and pulled myself from my somber thoughts. I sat up and looked down at him. He arched a brow. "Would you climb with me up Cerin Amroth? I believe you can see Southern Mirkwood from the flet."
He gave me such a radiant smile that if I had been standing my knees would have been jelly. "God you are attractive," I sighed. And at the sound of soft laughter, realized I had once again spoken out loud without meaning to. I blushed beet red as Legolas laughed. He stood and pulling me to my feet, brushed a stray hair behind my ear. Kissing my hand, he smiled devilishly. "I would love to my lovely tomato."
I gasped in shock and tried to swat him but he ducked and took off laughing towards the hill. Laughing I sped after him and realized at the second ring of trees I could no longer see him. "That's right, you better hide…jerkface," I added just for good measure. I passed by one tree and barely stifled a scream of surprise as a strong arm encircled my waist.
"How dare you!" I cried dramatically. "Unhand me!"
"And if you had caught me? What would you have done?" he teased.
"You don't want to know," I muttered struggling, albeit half-heartedly.
"Perhaps this?" he queried before beginning to tickle me.
I began laughing uncontrollably. "Oh…oh no…you're terrible," I managed to gasp out eventually.
"Come now that is not true," he said as he stopped tickling me, turning me around, though I was still imprisoned against him. I felt my back hit a tree and looked up at him in surprise. "We have had precious few moments alone, my love," he said ruefully.
I sighed and leaned into his embrace, nuzzling his neck. "I know."
He tilted my head back and for a few blessed moments I was lost to everything except the sensation of his lips on mine. That is until the sound of a throat being cleared reached my ears. We pulled apart and I felt my face heat up as I saw Haldir and Frodo, eyes carefully averted trying not to smile. Sam had his back to us and was probably as red as I was.
"Well, my love, shall we?" Legolas asked a bit stiffly.
I nodded quickly. Taking my hand he led me towards the ladder to the top of the flet and nodded curtly at Haldir and the Hobbits as we passed. When we had finally made it to the top of the flet we exchanged a rueful glance before laughing softly. "Why is it that we are almost always interrupted?" I asked exasperated.
"To be fair, we could be a tad more discreet," he stated his smile somewhat suggestive.
I blushed and, smiling shyly, walked past him towards the edge of the flet. After a moment I felt strong arms encircle me and pull me against a lean form. I sighed. "I missed this."
"We should enjoy it while it lasts." I smiled at the not-so-subtle hint. And decided a little payback was in order. Stepping out of his embrace, I moved a few steps away. "I think it is time for another geography lesson."
"Is that so?" He stated his smile still wide. I nodded tilting my head impishly.
"That is the Anduin correct?"
"Yes. It heartens me to see my lessons were not in vain." I rolled my eyes.
"Which direction is Mirkwood?" His smile faded.
"It is past the Anduin, the distant, dark shadow." His voice was oddly flat. He was staring into the distance at the shadow looming above his beloved forest. I went to him and wrapped my arms about him. I did not know what to say and so remained silent. He pulled me close, returning to the position we had originally been in, my back against his chest. "The Necromancer's presence has tainted our forest, destroyed innocent life for far too long. I wish it gone soonest. Yet he is so strong now. I cannot help but despair that we might never be rid of it."
"I know that feeling. But nothing lasts forever."
He turned me around. "Nothing?" he queried, looking at me a bit reprovingly. "I thought we were agreed that not all good things must come to an end." His tone was lighter. It was hard to stay sad for long in a forest such as Lórien.
"Fair enough," I stated simply, grateful for the respite from dark thoughts and worries. I felt him brush my hair to one side and his lips under my ear. "Now where were we…?"
"Right about here, I think," I stated softly, lifting my lips to his.
As much as I was enjoying having Legolas all to myself, I felt the weakening of the sun's rays and knew we could not tarry much longer. We had spent the better part of an hour trading thoughts as they came to us, sharing a kiss or caress, or just sitting in companionable silence. It was during one of the lulls in our conversation that Legolas suggested it was time to return.
I sighed deeply. "If we must, then we must." Legolas rose and helped me to my feet as usual.
We left the flet silently and quietly rejoined the others. I went to sit by Almira who was staring into the tree tops while Legolas went and joined Haldir, who was reclining against a tree alone. His Elf-wardens sat a few paces away engaged in a game of dice. I saw Haldir smiling mischievously and had no doubt he was about to tease Legolas about the episode he had witnessed. Feeling a puckish spirit rise within me as well.
"You have a silly smile on your face," I said in way of a greeting to Almira. "Day-dreaming about a certain warden are we?"
She blushed and too quickly replied, "No."
"Riiiiiight," I drawled and she rolled her eyes affectionately. I turned my gaze up to the trees and tried to hide my smile when only a few moments later Almira asked, "Do you think he noticed me?"
"Who?" I asked playing dumb.
She sat up with a huff, glanced furtively around before whispering, "You know who, Rumil."
"Oh him," I said and she gave another exasperated huff though I could see the corners of her mouth twitching. "Well, there were only two females so I am sure he had to have noticed us. But if by noticed you mean 'fell desperately in love, or at least like, with' that I cannot say."
"This is horrible," Almira groaned, covering her face with her hands and falling back onto the grass. "I cannot afford any distractions."
"Now don't go putting the cart before the horse," I said patting her shoulder in mock sympathy. "He could already be involved with someone or think you a complete cave troll."
"Gee thanks," Almira said dryly.
"Or he could be pining over you right now. You just don't know. But if he is interested in you, now's the time for distractions. We are supposed to enjoy ourselves in this forest." She looked at me speculatively, mulling what I said over.
"You know, you're right. We are on a break and I should really take advantage of being in this amazing place and get to know some of its citizens. It's just good manners."
"Indeed," I stated, my grin matching hers.
Out of the corner of my eye I saw Haldir clap Legolas on the shoulder before they both rose. "Time to go," I said and Almira and I got to our feet. Legolas returned to my side as the Company began walking again. Before long our escort uncovered their silver lamps as night descended around us. Like before we walked in silence, but when we suddenly came out into the open, I heard several gasps, including my own. There, before us, was a wide treeless space that encircled a great hill crowned with the tallest mallorn-trees we had yet to see, whose branches were filled with countless glowing lights gleaming green, gold, and silver.
"Welcome to Caras Galadhon!" Haldir said. "Here is the city of the Galadhrim where dwell the Lord Celeborn and Galadriel the Lady of Lórien. But we cannot enter here, for the gates do not look northward. We must go round to the southern side, and the way is not short, for the city is great." (2)
We followed a road paved with white stone that skirted the outer edge of the moat surrounding the city. We came at last to a white bridge and upon crossing faced the great gates of the city. With a knock and a few words from Haldir, the gates opened soundlessly. We quickly made our way through the deep lane between the ends of the wall and entered the City of Trees. I did not see any of their folk, but could hear their voices floating down from the canopy above. It made me slightly uneasy, though by how relaxed Legolas was I could tell he was basically in heaven being with his people again. We walked many paths, and climbed many stairs until we reached the high places and laid out before us was a wide lawn containing a shimmering fountain. It was lit by silver lamps that hung from the tree branches, and it fell into a silver basin from which flowed a white stream. Upon the south side, there stood the largest of all the trees, a white ladder standing beside it and three Elves sat at its base. They stood quickly as we approached and Haldir said, "Here dwell Celeborn and Galadriel. It is their wish that you should ascend and speak with them." One of the Elf-wardens then blew a clear note on a small horn, and it was answered three times from above. "I will go first," said Haldir. "Let Frodo come next and with him Legolas. The others may follow as they wish. It is a long climb for those that are not accustomed to such stairs, but you may rest upon the way." (2)
Legolas stepped forward and placed a reassuring hand on Frodo's shoulder as they approached the ladder. I saw Frodo glance up at Legolas and my heart ached for the hobbit so far from home, much like myself. Everything was new, and not speaking the language never made one feel totally secure. At least I could understand the elves. "Fear not," I heard Legolas say softly as we followed them towards the ladder. "You shall make it to the top unharmed."
Froso smiled ruefully. "Yes, but will I have enough breath left to speak? I would hate to make a fool out of myself in front of the Lady." I wish I were that witty when nervous, I thought.
"That I cannot guarantee," Legolas laughingly stated.
"Elves," Frodo muttered as he began to climb.
I followed a small smile on my face. While I could still see the lingering shadow in his eyes, it was good to witness a smile on the face of a normally too grave Ring-bearer.
"You have got to be kidding me," I muttered as I looked up. Beside me Almira eyed the stairs skeptically, before giving me a look.
"Spidey senses would come in really handy right about now," she stated.
"Tell me about it," I said beginning to climb. By the time I reached the very top I was practically wheezing. I had not stopped thinking my insane Elf powers would keep me from being too worn out. I was wrong. Legolas was rubbing my back sympathetically. "This…is why…my…people…don't live…in trees," I stated breathlessly, almost defiantly.
"Amen," grunted Almira as she ascended onto the talan that could have served for the deck of a Royal Caribbean cruise ship. Ok, one of their smaller yachts but still. And of course, there was a giant house built on top of it. We entered into it and found ourselves in an oval chamber, brilliantly lit by the silver lamps they seemed to favor. The walls were green and silver like the tree itself, and the roof was gold like the leaves of their mallorn-trees. There were a lot of Elves seated by the walls, facing the throne Celeborn and Galadriel occupied. They were unbelievably beautiful; Celeborn's silver hair contrasting with the burnished gold of Galadriel's, and no sign of age marred their visage. They were imposingly tall and their eyes held all the wisdom, pain, suffering and joy of the ages. I was ridiculously nervous as I approached them; barely listening to the greetings they gave my companions as I focused on not tripping or blushing. When it was my turn, I stepped forward and curtseyed.
"Lady Kate," Lord Celeborn acknowledged simply with a kind nod. Lady Galadriel said nothing, but I saw a smile tugging at her lips and when I met her gaze her eyes flicked to Legolas. There goes my chance at not blushing, I thought as I turned bright red. As I took my seat I gave myself a mental pat on the back. It could have been worse, I thought. You could have tripped a deep feminine voice brushed the thought across my mind. I jumped slightly and my gaze whipped to Galadriel, who now had a small smile on her lips. Thankfully, I was too stunned to blush this time.
When we had all been seated, Lord Celeborn inquired about out reduced number. Once it came out that Gandalf had fallen, there was a great cry of grief and shock from all the Elves present. I dropped my gaze to my lap as my eyes filled with tears. Legolas slipped his hand over the ones I held tightly clasped in my lap and I took it desperately. As Aragorn recounted our journey thus far I struggled to get my emotions under control. There was nothing you could have done I told myself sternly, but it was cold comfort. I listened as Celeborn basically blamed the Dwarves for awakening the evil and thereby Gandalf's death and how he regretted letting Gimli in. I felt a bit awkward after Galadriel had spoken in favor of Gimli and during the silence, at least until Celeborn basically reneged. Although I could not blame him for he had spoken in grief. Who had not said hurtful or rash things when distraught?
I had a hard time paying attention as I just felt so weary, not so much in body but in spirit. All I wanted was a soft blanket and some time to just recoup. But I quickly became alert when I heard Galadriel say, "But this I will say to you: your Quest stands upon the edge of a knife. Stray but a little and it will fail, to the ruin of all. Yet hope remains while all the Company is true." (2)
She held us with her eyes, coming to us each in turn. I knew what happened here, but I was curious and anxious to see what I would be offered if I were to turn away from the Quest. So far, only Aragorn and Legolas could meet her eyes for any substantial length of time. And when her eyes met mine I could see why. It felt as if she was reaching into the hidden recesses of your mind and then into the depths of your very soul. Needless to say I did not last long.
And then after a few more moments she released us and smiled. I breathed a silent prayer of thanks at her next words. "Do not let your hearts be troubled," she said. "Tonight you shall sleep in peace." I felt everyone's collective sigh and could see relief written clearly on all my companions' faces. (2)
"Go now!" said Celeborn. "You are worn with sorrow and much toil. Even if your Quest did not concern us closely, you would still have refuge in this City, until you were healed and refreshed. Now you shall rest, and we will not speak of your further road for awhile." (2)
On our way to the ladder, Almira came up next to me and whispered softly, "What did she offer you?"
I looked at her for a long moment and then answered just as quietly with one simple word, "Home."
She nodded a sad smile on her face. "Me too."
We descended the steps in silence, the enormity of everything we had been through weighing down upon us. I think there was a fair amount of shock on everyone's part that we had made it this far and that we could rest. No midnight travel or cold meals coming tomorrow. As I stepped off the last stair, I felt a great rush of wind and looking up caught sight of a raven, who gave a single caw, before taking flight. "Well, that was odd," I said. And then I blacked out.
Passages quoted from Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring-Book II, Chapter VI-Lothlórien.
Passages quoted from Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring-Book II, Chapter-The Mirror of Galadriel.
