Hello all! :D Thank you for the support, thank you for liking where the story is going I promise it gets more intriguing...but first our elves have the tricky business of surviving a certain siege of Helms Deep first. This chapter is a build up to the main event, which will be colourful and difficult to write I am sure! Not least because...THE HOBBIT is out this week YAAAY...dying with excitement...Thranduil, Legolas and Tauriel...I will be so distracted!
Anyway THANK YOU FOR THE REVIEWS, honestly it is so special to hear from you guys! Smiles and virtual hugs all around! So thanks Celticank,Win Lockwood, xuanny, Dreamingin2eternity and also the unsigned fan review; I am so happy you enjoy the direction of the story and hope you continue too as I love hearing from you. I love hearing from all of you so please do not be strangers :) Also if ya'll like crossover and Once upon a time, Celticank writes a pretty cool story, if you do go check it out :) Also Hi followers you's are awesome, hope you like the following chapters.
Sooo this chapter starts off as a flashback, one of Thranduil's memories as news reached him of Ellenya and Legolas...enjoy and please review it means so much and feedback is so vitally important.
***bit of sindarin later one between Legolas and Ellenya, it is in italics because obvs I cannot translate it effectively***
19 Helms Deep
"Come Ellenya try again," Thranduil coaxed from his position crouched on the ground, arms out-stretched in front of him, "Come to Ada, it is okay I will not let you fall."
The tiny platinum haired infant gripped the edge of a low table, her locks already tumbling past her shoulders. With her beautiful big silvery blue eyes, lined with thick dark lashes, she regarded her Ada with caution. This little one had been trying to walk for several days now; she had successfully managed a few steps with the aid of furniture and with the help of her parents or brother. However she was determined to walk unaided but her attempts had been futile, she regularly fell down with an unwanted bump. That was until her Ada had appeared and promised her she would not fall but she struggled to trust him, and let go of her grip on what was safe. Sucking in her bottom lip in an adorable look of indecision she outstretched out one arm to her Ada and whined loudly to get his attention.
"No you must come here, I am not helping you this time," The King responded to his little one's demanding wail, it was not met well and the infant let out a shrill cry of defiance, she did not like not getting her own way.
"Just give up already Ada she is not going to let go," A youthful Legolas grumbled from his position cross legged atop the dining table, a book in his lap.
Thranduil lifted his gaze and glared at his son; "Legolas get off the table and sit on a chair properly like normal elves! And put shoes on, have you even bathed yet?"
"No to all of the above," The youth muttered and continued his reading.
Thranduil sighed loudly, parenting a spirited youth and caring for an irritable baby was much harder work than any of his responsibilities as a ruler. Lairiel had only been gone since the morning, at his request, she was still wearied from bringing Ellenya into the world and Thranduil had thought it best that a day to herself would revive her. His wife had protested, her main concern, who would care for her little ones? Thranduil had waved off her protests, he could afford a day's absence to indulge in his children he was more than capable. Lairiel had eventually relented and decided to spend a day in the nearby woods to bring peace and tranquility to her mind and spirit.
Thus far Thranduil had managed relatively well; for the most part of the day it had only been he and his infant daughter, but Legolas had now returned from a day of adventures and training. The youngster was fatigued from overstretching himself and covered in grime from trailing through the forest. As was expected of young ellyn his age, the boy was intent on either ignoring his Adar's commands or simply rebelling against everything that came out of Thranduil's mouth.
"Legolas you are testing my patience, would you please start acting your age and get off the table and go bathe!" Thranduil groaned not wishing this to escalate into another bickering style argument. The request was met by complete silence as the youth ignored every word.
Thranduil flickered his eyes back to his sniffling daughter, who still gazed up at him with watery eyes, and directed his conversation to her instead; "Your brother thinks he is very smart, he believes I will not punish him!"
"No you will not," Legolas sniggered, "You will just shout and threaten to take away my privileges."
"Do you hear that Ellenya your brother is no longer frightened of his Ada," Thranduil spoke with a light and joking tone, as he picked up his daughter and then in a loud booming voice called for Arystor.
The King's advisor was never too far away and in order for Thranduil to take the day away from his duties, Arystor had the unfortunate responsibility of keeping on top of paperwork in the King's study. So it did not take the dark haired ellon long to make his way to the living space and even less time to worry about what would be requested of him now.
"Arystor would you kindly entertain my daughter for me," Thranduil ordered and handed off his infant to the bemused ellon, who awkwardly grasped the tiny bundle. Ellenya was unconcerned with her new guardian and happily tugged roughly on his hair. Arystor sighed and gave the elfling a pained expression, sometimes he felt that the King took great advantage of him. Ellenya smiled endearingly at her disgruntled caretaker with those enchanting eyes and, just like that, Arystor was charmed.
"Sire I am not very good with little ones," Arystor began, as he maneuvered Ellenya more comfortably in his arms, though as he said the words he could not help the ridiculous grin plastered over his face. Ellenya patted his face in her unspoken attempt to regain his full attention; she wished to be entertained and was growing impatient with her new playmate.
"You will be fine, she wants to walk set her on the ground and just supervise her for a moment it is not that difficult, I have to teach my headstrong son a lesson," Thranduil responded with an unconcerned tone and Arystor groaned, internally resolving to plead with the Queen to never allow his majesty full responsibility for their children again.
Thranduil now had Legolas' attention, the youth lifted his head from his book and frowned at his Adar; "What are you going to do?" he questioned unfolding his legs from beneath him and setting one toe on the ground ready to run if this turned sour.
"Do you know what I cannot abide?" Thranduil asked as he drifted slowly towards his eldest, his expression even and his hands clasped firmly behind his back.
"A number of things," Legolas responded cheekily and grinned when Arystor let out a panicked squeak.
Thranduil chuckled darkly and nodded, "Yes that is true, but what really irritates me more than a sharp tongued and disobedient son." The King circled the table and noted with approval his child's quick ability to anticipate an attack, but unfortunately he lacked experience; "is that I loathe uncleanliness!"
Legolas' eyes widened at the realisation and went to leap off the table, but a very strong and unyielding hand clamped down on the neck of his tunic. The youth gagged as the material restricted his throat and struggled from the grasp, working his way out of the shirt, exactly what Thranduil wanted. Once Legolas thought he was free of the garment and his Adar's grasp, Thranduil wrapped his arm around his son's neck and dragged him out of the living space. With every step the younger elf spewed out colourful threats and wrestled with his Ada's hold on him, but it was useless, millennia of being a highly skilled warrior meant Legolas was at a complete disadvantage.
"If you will not bathe in a proper fashion I will have to resort to more drastic measures Legolas," Thranduil grunted as he worked hard to keep hold of his alarmingly strong youth. He shoved and wrestled his way with his son, to one of the many beautiful pool structures within his great halls, these were mere water features and the water would be ice cold.
Legolas eyed the pool with alarm and stilled his frantic movement, twisting his face so as to look up at his Adar pleadingly; "No, Ada, please…Ada you would not?"
"Oh yes I think I would," Thranduil grinned wickedly in reply, taking great satisfaction in the suitable amount of horror in his son's eyes.
"No! Ada! Ada I am sorry, I swear I will never be disrespectful again!" Legolas hurriedly claimed and braced himself for the fall, but when it did not materialise he slowly peeked at his Adar.
"I accept your apology son, it was most heartfelt," Thranduil replied earnestly and released his grip on the youngster a little. Legolas sighed in relief and straightened up smiling in triumph at his Adar, but it was short lived as a familiar look of disinterest settled in Thranduil's features and the King in an impassive tone continued; "However crimes do not go unpunished in my realm," and with one hard push sent his son crashing into the cold water.
Legolas yelped in shock as he hit the frosty water, flailing and splashing around in surprise, the sight was too comical yet somehow Thranduil kept an even expression. The younger elf hastily gripped the sides of the deep pool, shivering and gasping for air as he glared daggers at his wicked Adar.
"Let that be a hard learned lesson young one, do not underestimate your Adar," Thranduil grumbled and turned on his heel to leave, before he betrayed his façade of indifference and broke into the fit of laughter that threatened to burst from his chest. Truly the sight of his half drowned son with his betrayed expression was too much, even for one so guarded as Thranduil. But just as the King took one more step he felt a tension on his robes, and he did not even have a moment to react as the force of another tug had him staggering backwards. Legolas pressed himself up against the side of the pool and bit his lip to stifle a laugh as the form of his shocked Adar hit the water too. Once the young prince had ascertained his Adar was completely incapacitated he tried to scramble from the water.
Thranduil emerged coughing and angrily ripping off the now heavy, sodden robes that anchored him in the water. He turned his rage on his imperious and revengeful son who was clambering out of the water at such speed, but not nearly fast enough. He gripped his boy and shoved him back under the water for a brief moment before pulling him back to the surface;
"You…you…you mischievous little orc!" Thranduil growled at Legolas who was laughing loudly and with much heart, "Look what you have done, I do not know where you inherited such ridiculous behaviour?" That was a lie he knew all too well from whom his son inherited his many talents, his Naneth of course, so it was entirely impossible for the King to remain angry at Legolas, he was far too lovable just like Lairiel.
"I could not help myself, I am sorry," Legolas managed in-between sniggers; he loved his Adar dearly but often Thranduil was so distant and preoccupied that youth found it difficult to bond or make a connection. Legolas was of the opinion his Adar was much too serious and restrictive, so it was in rare moments like this that he delighted in.
"What shall I ever do with you child?" Thranduil laughed and pushed the damp straggles of hair out of his son's face and added with a sigh; "You will be the death of me."
"Nana informs me you will be the death of us, with all your paranoia, she says you need to laugh more so I was only assisting," Legolas chuckled as he heaved himself out of the water with much effort, throwing one leg up onto the stone floor to give him more leverage.
"Oh does she now, remind me to have a word with Nana when she returns," Thranduil replied nonchalantly as he waded to the edge of the pool and yanked his son back into the water.
"Aaadddaaaaa!" Legolas cried with a mixture of annoyance and disbelief, as he landed back in the water again, "It is not funny anymore you have made your point, I am sorry!"
Thranduil was now roaring with laughter and clutching his side; "Yes I know, but as you said I needed to laugh more and that was certainly amusing."
Legolas scowled; maybe a more relaxed Adar would not be the best idea at all! The King continued to laugh at his son's irate expression, but did in the end take pity on the youngster and attempted to assist him out of the water. However the fit of laughter he was now consumed with made it hard for Thranduil to do anything other than convulse involuntarily. It was not until a high pitched peal of tinkling laughter that rang through the air, did both Thranduil and Legolas stop their antics to turn to the sound.
"Thranduil! Thranduil do not frighten her," Arystor squeaked excitedly from a short distance down the hallway, he was crouched and hovering a foot or so away from Ellenya, who stood unaided and with a look of glee on her face as she observed her silly brother and Ada.
Thranduil felt his mouth pop open is shock as he locked eyes with his daughter, who bravely took a few more steps towards the pool, breaking into a wide smile when she knew she had her Ada's full attention. Then slowly so as not to alarm her he pulled himself out of the water and crawled a short distance away from the pool, panicking slightly over the thought of her coming too close to the water's edge. Thranduil remained serene, as he took up his position cross legged on the floor and out stretched his arms to the infant;
"Are you coming to join us little star," he called softly and grinned at her thrilled giggles, the sound was truly wonderful there was no music that could bring him more enjoyment than his daughters laughter. Without hesitation or fear the little elfling marched determinedly towards her beloved Ada, her little arms out stretched in anticipation. Within moments she had crossed the distance and fell into Thranduil's awaiting arms, in that instant he had up in the air and spinning her around in celebration;
"My beautiful little star, so smart and gracefully, you shall be a dancer with those wonderful little feet." The King praised as he peppered his baby with kisses until she giggled with sheer delight.
"Lairiel is going to be so disappointed she missed this," Arystor sighed, but could not help the ecstatic grin etched on his usually sour face, he had just witnessed something marvellous and felt so privileged to be a part of it. He had no family of his own and to be included in this family on such a personal level was a blessing to him and one that he would treasure.
"I do not care," Thranduil sang happily and placed his child on the ground taking her small hands in his and engaging in some sort of strange dance; "I am never here to witness these moments, never, my incredibly gifted daughter just found her feet and I was here, not my wife, me!"
"Gifted?" Legolas scoffed as he hauled himself out of the pool and to his feet, "she just took a few steps."
"But with such grace and elegance, she is just like her Ada," Thranduil gloated, completely delirious is his happy state of mind.
"Oh no! Two massive ego's in one house, that is it I am moving to Lorien," Legolas added sarcastically and shot Arystor an amused look, the advisor stifled a laugh in return; "I am just the unwanted child, the one his Adar carelessly tosses into water features."
"Do not be a sore loser," Thranduil grumbled and grabbed his son's arm to pull him into the happy dance with Ellenya; "I love you both equally, but it is just so satisfying to know I will at least have one child that I will understand."
xXx
"Sire?" Arystor questioned tentatively, he had just informed the Elven King that word had been received from the Lady Galadriel of Lorien regarding his daughter. It was grave news and all had feared to bring it to the King's attention, save Arystor, he was the only one who could inform Thranduil his daughter was en route to a major battle that would soon reunite her with her brother. Thranduil had not responded in many long minutes, his eyes were glazed and far away, often a smile would light his features. The advisor assumed that the King was dwelling on old memories to relieve the pain of the news and he dearly hoped this revelation would not be the metaphorical straw that broke Thranduil's back. Eventually a shift in the King's posture alerted Arystor that he was present again, and the advisor braced himself for the angry onslaught but it never came. Instead Thranduil returned to his task of sharpening his blade his expression void of emotion;
"Sire, did you understand what I just told you?" Arystor began again, worry saturating his tone.
"Yes," was all the King said in return and continued his rhythmic movements of the wet stone against the steel.
"And this does not alarm you?" The advisor queried and looked about the room at the other concerned faces of the Woodland guard. Now that attacks had increased tenfold and without the assistance of either of his children, Thranduil took it upon himself to be involved with the guard and military handling of every aspect of his Kingdom. This meant practically living, eating and working alongside his loyal subjects.
"I cannot control what my daughter decides, she does as she sees fit," Thranduil replied indifferently with almost a shrug of his shoulders to the statement. "She goes in search of aid; you would all do well to remember that."
"Then we shall pray incessantly for her safe and speedy return, if that pleases your majesty," Tauriel interjected this time, seeing the advisor was slowly losing his patience with the King. There was a resolute confidence about her tone, she wished her King to be encouraged by her unwavering belief that hope could be found.
"It does," Thranduil confirmed with a nod, "Place it with the long list of pleading prayers that the Valar have yet to answer for us."
Tauriel felt her eyes widen at the dismissive attitude of their King, it was almost blasphemy! She tried to come up with more words that would bring comfort but found nothing; instead a slow sinking fear entered her mind. The elleth despaired for there was little hope and death seemed likely for them all, perhaps the King was right to turn his back on the Valar after all what had they achieved?
"Ai! He is not himself," Arystor murmured and gestured for the unnerved elleth to leave, "Take no heed he is just upset, we all say illogical things when we are upset."
"But he must not lose hope," Tauriel answered a little too loudly, trying to deny the creeping shadow knawing at her mind "Ellenya will come back she must come back, and Legolas too, they will I know they will!"
"Hush now," Arystor soothed noting the thrill of fear in the younger elf's eyes, "I know Legolas is dear to you, you are right they will come back."
Thranduil did not react to the statements he simply sighed and stopped to inspect his work, satisfied he stood up and swung the sword in testing, yes it would do. He rested the sword on his shoulder and pushed past his advisor and captain, they could offer prayers if they wished but he only dealt in facts. If his encounter with Lairiel was indeed factual there was the chance Ellenya would return with aid, but he was not foolish and what his children were now engaged in was nothing short of a glorified blood bath.
Inside his heart was so badly bruised that he just continually lived in a level of emotional and physical pain. However he would not let it consume him, he had been so close to letting such contorted and evil inclinations eradicate him before that it was unthinkable to allow it to happen again. The enemy would not have his mind or his heart, he fought for good before and he would do it again, this time his repressed rage and deep rooted confusion would be his weapon of choice. Thranduil wanted and needed to be free of his demons once and for all, but the only thing that kept his mind from deteriorating further was his children and somehow he needed to believe they would live and return to him. Until then his mask of indifference and his cold exterior was his only defense from falling into despair.
xXx
"There do you see Ellenya, that is the great fortress of Helms Deep," Haldir proclaimed as he strode in unison with the Woodland Princess. The great sanctuary hewn out of rock coming into view as the cleared the last hill, they would be there within the hour.
"Impressive," she muttered in reply, "though you can taste the hopelessness in the air its inhabitants are broken with fear."
"Then it is our task to bring them hope," he replied firmly, "that is the purpose of our kind now it is all we can offer them."
"Why do you have such sympathy for the race of men?" Ellenya asked, she was still confused and conflicted over this. She had been brought up to stay away from men they only brought sorrow and pain to her kind. Yet the unlikely twinge of care she felt for the mortal children from home left her questioning her long held beliefs that men could not, and would not strive for good.
"It is not sympathy but friendship, mutual respect, we have a common cause!" Haldir said with deep reverence, "In order to defeat our enemies we must unite and put aside our differences for the good of all."
"Oh rousing speech my friend," Ellenya smirked and decided to change the subject; "You said I reminded you of someone dear to you, I did not know you had a mate Haldir?"
"Tactful Princess, tell me our all you folk so direct with their interfering?" The ellon sniffed haughtily.
Ellenya laughed loudly, in the short time she had spent conversing with this ellon she had come to realise she liked Haldir, he was just as fierce and as spirited as she was, though in his more controlled and composed way; "No actually we usually are not the least bit interested in others, I was just trying to make polite conversation?"
"By directly inquiring about my private life?" He teased.
"I did not say I was very good at polite socializing, just that I was attempting to engage in it!" Ellenya replied sharply but then grinned at the elf she was fast becoming friends with.
Haldir smiled and shook his head Ellenya was incredibly endearing once she tried to be, "I suppose I never did elaborate on that statement did I?"
"No you did not and it is most impolite to not clarify such things," Ellenya snorted and folded her arms, patiently awaiting the story.
"As you wish your highness," Haldir answered and gave a mock bow before continuing; "No I do not have a mate, at least not by choice."
"Well that is the worst explanation I have ever heard," Ellenya muttered and was about to launch into all the reasons why it was awful, but was stopped by a sad look on the ellon's face.
"Her name was Orniel, she was one your kin," the elf answered with an even tone.
Ellenya peeked at the ellon in surprise; "Was one of my kin?"
"Well she was of mixed race her Naneth was one of the Sindar and her Adar was a Silvan elf, but she dwelt in Greenwood when it was still the great elven kingdom," Haldir answered and with a smile continued; "You remind me of her, that opinionated and headstrong attitude so fiercely protective of her home and her people."
"What happened to her and why have I not heard of her?" Ellenya asked trying hard to place the name; she would have known if one of her people had been betrothed to one of Galadhrim.
"Your Naneth was not the only one to meet her fate on that black day of our history," Haldir answered coldly and clenched his jaw in his attempt to control his emotions.
Ellenya stopped in her tracks and regarded the elf in her presence with a new perspective; "She was murdered?"
"Orniel fell defending her home as was her duty, she was a member of the guard, she loved your Naneth dearly and I do not doubt that she did not gave her life willingly," Haldir replied his tone straining as he worked hard now with his anger.
"I am so sorry," Ellenya felt a sudden rush of emotion for the elleth whom she had never known, "If I had of known before that you had a wife and she was one of my people I would have-"
"You would have what?" Haldir smirked, "Behaved yourself more in my presence?"
"Have been respectful was the statement I was searching for," the elleth answered with a frown, trying hard to keep the attitude from her voice after such a sensitive disclosure.
"You can save the apologies Ellenya, Orniel was not my wife, she could have been but I guess now we shall never know." Haldir replied with a sigh; "I was to ask her, it was practically set in stone and then fate plays a cruel trick and the world changes in a heartbeat."
Ellenya nodded and dropped her gaze to the ground growing silent; she knew all too well how a world can change in a moment. A peaceful and happy place can become the reason for your nightmares, and a loving embrace is replaced with cold isolation. Yet still Haldir had remained, just as she and her family had, when it would have been so easy to leave the grief behind and fade into the west. Grief was an odd thing to understand, the pain of their loved ones passing never truly went away but it was replaced with acceptance. Ellenya considered that her continual fighting and fiery temper came from her grief, she had a debt to settle and maybe when justice had been rained down would she eventually find complete peace in life. The elleth also considered this could be in Haldir's thoughts too and she sighed outwardly; he was yet another elf who could have understood her sufferings, he could have been a friend much sooner than this, but her bitterness and anger in life had caused so much damage. Ellenya hoped that in time she could change, that given a chance she could bring happiness to people instead of grief and truly be a beloved Princess.
"I did not mean to upset you Ellenya but you did insist on an answer," Haldir eventually spoke up, weighing up the conflicted emotions now dancing openly across the usually distant elleth's face.
"I did," Ellenya muttered in reply but then smiled gratefully at the fair haired ellon. "Though I am grateful that you shared that with me, now I see we could have been friends and I am truly sorry I could not see past my own grief to notice anyone else's."
Haldir chuckled and clapped a hand on the young elleth's shoulders; "I assume that is the closest to an apology I shall ever receive so I will accept it quickly before you change your mind my friend."
Ellenya grinned back. "Friend? Now I can prove my husband wrong and add another elf to my expanding list of allies."
"Indeed," Haldir agreed and returned the smile, "I shall confirm that statement when he meets us in the morning on a field of victory. Though I still do find it a mystery how on earth Elladan ever got you to agree to marry him."
"He saved my life," Ellenya shrugged, "Literally and I am starting to believe metaphorically, I have not quite been the same since he forced his way into my mind."
"Ah yes he has a way of making things appear brighter," Haldir commented a knowing nod passing between he and Ellenya; "I know you think me stuffy and restrained and yes I suppose I like to play by the rules, but if I could live my life again with Orniel I would have acted exactly as you and Elladan did. Love is not to waste and I regret not seizing the opportunities."
Ellenya gently placed a hand on the ellon's arm, a soft and compassionate gesture for the Princess; "Ada promised me a long time ago that one day I may see Nana again, and I believe that it is true, so maybe that can bring you comfort."
"It does Ellenya my friend, it truly does," Haldir replied with equally as much feeling; "When I have claimed justice for Orniel and for my companions who have fallen in war I intend to go west in hope that I may see her again."
"Then you shall," Ellenya nodded in agreement, a thrill of hope igniting in her heart that there was truth in life after death for her kind.
xXx
The King of Rohan, a man of great honour and who had once been fair of feature but now was marred by sorrow and great burden, overlooked the elven procession that entered his fortress with a mixture of awe, suspicion and no small amount of gratefulness. Theoden was not entirely sure how to respond and neither did his shocked men, who openly gawped at the strange warriors clad in bright silvers and blues carrying the recognisable mark of Rivendell on their beautifully crafted banners.
However he was much relieved when Aragorn appeared to know and greet the apparent leader with mush gusto. The elves had come to offer help in their time of need and he was thankful, but wondered over the sudden interest the elves had taken in his people, did they feel guilt at last for their general indifference to a mortal's suffering? Regardless there was no time to ask questions, war was upon them and the new recruits had to be assigned a post which he left in the capable hands of Aragorn and his two strange companions. Theoden drifted his hard gaze to the elf that had come with Aragorn, clearly a noble one from the respect he received from the elves that had arrived, and he watched in mild interest the interactions between the fair folk.
Legolas was excitedly greeting the elven company; words could not describe the sense of pride he now felt at the presence of his kind, they had come to aid men and that was no small thing. As he moved down the ranks with Aragorn and a reluctant Gimli giving orders and assigning elves to posts, he was starting to become aware of a familiar feeling. The prince stopped suddenly brows knitting together as he tried to place the familiarity in his spirit, this was not met with approval as Gimli waltzed right into the now frozen elf's waist.
"Argh! Could ye not warn me when yer about to stop," the dwarf grumbled and stamped in frustration, sometimes it was terribly disorientating being surrounded by extremely tall beings. Legolas did not react to the statement instead he swivelled on his heel and looked back through the crowd, anxiety and disbelief colouring his features. Gimli narrowed his eyes at the sudden change in the elf's countenance and attempted to try and follow Legolas' now frantic gaze as he searched the crowd.
It did not take the elf long to place the familiar calling in his spirit, because as the crowd slowly dispersed there she stood with Haldir, with apologetic eyes and a tense posture. Legolas was not sure how to best react to his little sisters presence; part of him wanted to drag her into the safety of the caves below them and chew her out for her incredible stupidity! What was she thinking and more importantly who allowed this, surely Adar would have locked her in the dungeons for even considering the notion? And Elladan, her supposedly all adoring husband, what did he have to say about this? Legolas felt his breathing quicken with the rising temper, if Elladan had agreed to smuggle her here he would really suffer the Prince's wrath now, stupid ellon was always giving his sister what she wanted against better judgment!
However there was a part of Legolas, and it alarmed him how strong that part was, that was relieved and even excited with Ellenya's presence. She was a skilled warrior, swift and merciless; she was worth ten of any man or elf here in battle. Whatever the reason, she was here and there was very little he could do about that, he also had to admit his heart was glad to see Ellenya, he had missed her dearly.
"Legolas stop gawping and help an old man out," Aragorn teased as he jogged up to the oblivious elf who was staring off into the distance, at his side the dwarf too had his eyes trained in the same direction. Aragorn followed their stares and sucked in a sharp breath; "Aiya this not good!"
"Why?" The dwarf asked gruffly, "Who is the lassie?"
"My sister," Legolas answered sternly and made towards Ellenya, followed curiously by the dwarf, who wished to lay eyes on the she elf that had caused his companion such emotional strife.
"Legolas I can explain but maybe at a better time," Ellenya pleaded softly as her hassled looking brother approached, she was not sure how to read his expression.
"Yes you do have to explain," Legolas growled as he reached his little sister, "And you will once we are finished with this battle."
Ellenya attempted to thank him for his understanding but quickly found herself in an embrace so tight it was difficult to breathe. She had forgotten how warm and caring her brother was, he was always so open about his affections for her and they shared such a strong sibling bond. Legolas breathed in her scent, the scent of home of pinewood and resin and felt his spirit revive itself. His anger slowly ebbing away but it did nothing to dispel his anxiety, his quick mind had already calculated the risk to his sister, Ellenya was truly playing with fire now.
"I love and loathe you all at once, Ellenya why are you here?" Legolas murmured in a voice barely audible as they eventually separated.
"I came for you," Ellenya replied a partial stretch of the truth, "Sibling solidarity, besides you should not get to have all the fun."
"You are a liar I can see it in you, what do you hide from me?" Legolas pushed unhappy with the response.
"A long story brother which I promise I will divulge when time is for us," The elleth replied evenly and strained her head to see through the chaotic crowd, despairing at the lack of actual warriors this King had at his command.
"Ha! Some promise!" Gimli huffed, unable to stay silent any longer, "We could all be orc fodder by dawn and then you conveniently get out of your explanations, typical elf."
Ellenya swiveled her head and gazed below her, ascertaining the gruff and uncivilized voice belonged to none other than a stunted little creature. Legolas quickly made a quietening gesture to the disrespectful dwarf and cleared his throat in attempt to distract his sister. Ellenya was not so easily pacified and scowled at her brother;
"Legolas why does this lower creature disrespect me? And why do you protect it?" Ellenya hissed, alternating irritated glances between her brother and the dwarf in question.
"It? Did she just refer to me as an it? Listen here you spoiled and privileged little madam I am a noble dwarf and it is you who should be showing me respect!" Gimli roared in anger his eyes popping in disbelief. "And I do not need protecting, the laddie just knows who to keep close if he wants his hide saved."
Legolas could not help the chuckle that escaped his lips and the obligatory roll of the eyes, whatever pacified Gimli was worth the pain of remaining silent in false agreement, otherwise it would just disintegrate into a foul mouthed rant and Legolas could not abide ranting;
"Peace Ellenya, this is Gimli son of Gloin, one of the fellowship and a grand companion," Legolas replied evenly and gestured to his unlikely friend, "And Gimli this is my sister, Ellenya, Princess of the Woodland Realm."
"Gloin?" Ellenya questioned recognition lighting her eyes as her judgmental glance fell over the irate dwarf; "Ada is going to hang you!"
"I have no fear of that pompous old fool!" Gimli barked with a forced laugh but then quietened as Legolas' boot collided with his shin, "Oh and uh lovely to be finally meetin' yer acquaintance Lady Ellenya, tell me how's your new husband? He mustn't be keepin' ye very warm at night if this is more appealing."
Ellenya's coloured from her neck to the tips of her ears and she glared daggers at Gimli, marking him immediately as an enemy. She had never been so embarrassed or insulted in her entire life and toyed with the idea of shaving the dwarf's bread in retaliation with her sword. However her anger was short lived as she registered that if the dwarf knew of her marriage then Legolas did also, and suddenly she paled.
"Aha! That made ye squirm, teach ye to be rude to a dwarf now won't it pointy ears?" Gimli guffawed and elbowed Legolas in the ribs, his little eyes glinting with humour mingled with satisfaction.
"You are vile," Ellenya spat unable to cope with the awkwardness of the situation, she still could not look at her brother, so instead she pushed passed them in an attempt to leave the suffocating introductions.
Legolas frowned at the dwarf and shook his head in disapproval, ignoring Gimli's mews of apology as he stalked after his hot headed sister. Though she did bring it on herself but manners never were her strength, and it was really an unthinkable idea for her to be friendly with a dwarf.
"Ellenya," Legolas called with an air of impatience as he caught her forearm, "I know and I am at peace with the news."
Ellenya stopped mid stride and turned back with a guilty look upon her face; "I am so sorry if I caused you any shame or hurt, I never meant for you to find out through whispers."
"Well I did and for that you owe me at least a century of distasteful jokes,"Legolas grinned at the sorry sight that was his little sister, "And I will not hold back."
"If that is all the punishment I receive I will take it gladly," Ellenya smiled brightly in return, unaware of the turmoil she had put her brother through and she probably never would fully know. It was second nature to Legolas to protect his sister from hurtful or unhappy thoughts, even if it meant covering up his own feelings, even now he was prepared to put on a show of confidence.
"I do not think Elladan would have let you travel here alone?" He queried and glanced around the already chaotic courtyard, maybe the coward was hiding from him waiting to see his reaction.
"No he tried to stop me but as I said, there is much I will tell you later," Ellenya answered feeling a tug at her heart as she fought the emotion from her features. "Elladan is not here so do not look for him, he and Elrohir are aiding Mithrandir as we speak, they hope to bring us more men."
"And we may hope they do," Legolas sighed and narrowed his eyes at the pathetic mix of mortals that clumsily held swords, or handled bows like inexperienced children. "Come I have the perfect post for you."
"But Haldir said he needed archers," Ellenya muttered as she followed her brother away from the mass of elves that had taken position along the high curtain walls.
"Since when do you play with bows and arrows," Legolas replied sarcastically and continued on his determined path to a winding staircases, which led to a turret, not immediately one that was a target but a prime position to launch objects at unwanted attackers. Ellenya peered questionably at the stairs and then to her brother frowning slightly.
"What use will I be up there?" She asked with trepidation, surely Legolas knew better than to put her out of harm's way? If danger did not find her she had no problem seeking it out herself.
"Plenty," her brother answered brightly and beckoned for her to follow. Turning his back to her as he quickly ascended the stairs and relayed his orders to Ellenya; "You may have noticed we are short of men but we do have able and willing hearts, unfortunately they may be little inexperienced and need an expert to guide them, that would be your role."
Just at that apt description the two elves came to the top of the stairs and were faced with a mixed crowd predominately made up of terrified youths, some no more than children. Ellenya sucked in a sharp breath and turned to glare at her brother, who in their right mind would have infants fight in such a battle.
"Do not betray your feelings Ellenya, remain expressionless," Legolas answered smoothly switching to their native tongue to warn his sister, he had already voiced his opinions it was pointless. If it was by order of King Theoden to have youngsters engage in war then they needed guidance and a level of protection, that was not going to be provided by the already wearied men in this small crowd, Ellenya could oversee this.
"What are your orders?" Ellenya replied, trying to keep the horror from her voice.
"Guide them and keep them safe, if we lose ground make sure they are the first to the keep! I do not think it is right for innocent blood to be split," Legolas ordered with almost the hint of smile on his lips as he regarded the boys and men in his presence, but there was a flash of dark anger in his eyes. The same anger that Ellenya had learned to fear, her brother was deadly and with such temper brewing in his spirit it was best not to argue a point, for it was unlikely he would show any mercy tonight.
"Then send me some elven archers to man the lower wall, if we are trapped here they will not stand a chance without cover," Ellenya copied her brothers tone and expression as she nodded acknowledgments to the youth around her.
Legolas nodded sharply in response and turned on his heel to leave, but halted a moment turning his head slightly to whisper to Ellenya; "I will not say farewell because I choose to believe that we will be victorious, and I do not know why but your presence gives me hope."
Ellenya gave her brother a small smile and called after him as he begun to descend the stairs, "I shall see you at sunrise."
Once she had watched Legolas disappear from her sight Ellenya turned back to her newly acquired battalion. The youth stared curiously at her and all of them trembled in dread of the nightmare about to unfold around them, the few men in the gathering wore downcast expressions for they were no warriors but simple folk, labourer's and farmers they knew nothing of battle. Eventually the eldest looking youth, maybe in his late teens with dark blonde locks that were tied at the nap of his neck, stepped forward and cleared his throat;
"Have you come to help us elf maidan?"
Ellenya smiled and strode toward the youngster; "I am no fair elf maiden, I was born and raised in a land of danger. By your age I was versed in every weapon known to man or elf and I could wield them with my eyes shut! I am not here to help you, for I only help the weak, I am here to assist in the command of warriors."
The boy quivered slightly from the sharp and authoritative tone of the elleth, "But we are no warriors," he answered with a thrill of fear in his voice.
"Do you hate the enemy? Would you seek revenge for the damage and destruction he has caused to your families and your land?" Ellenya asked in a matter of fact tone, as she eyed the other youngsters and disheartened men, who's eyes lit with anger at the remembrance of their stolen lands and burring homes.
"We would," the boy answered more seriously this time, "All of us have lost something to the enemy."
"Then be a warrior not a coward, show no fear to the creatures that stole your innocence from you for they do not deserve it," Ellenya shouted more clearly now to all, so as they could hear her. "Give them vengeance instead!"
A small cheer went up from the group as the youngsters and men grabbed their weaponry and took up their posts. Each individual harboring their own memories and anger against the coming army, they would not show fear, they would not be cowards. Ellenya pleased with the hope that she had instilled quickly began checking weapons and speaking with her new companions, taking particular care over the younger ones. Her heart was heavy for they were so young and she could not help ensuring their over-sized armour was secured, and that they could manage the heavy weapons. It alarmed her how quickly she became defensive over these mortals and found that she was thankful for this opportunity to fight for them.
As Ellenya was taking her last checks her sharp ears had long picked up the dreadful sound of an approaching army, but now she was aware just how close it was and she spun to the sound, pushing her way to look over the wall. Face pressed against the cold stone Ellenya watched with a mixture of disgust and apprehension, as the vast almost uncountable army of ghastly black skinned creatures made for the Rohan stronghold. Lord Elrond had been correct she had not fought such creatures before but that did not stop her calculating the best ways to kill them, they were brutish and man like in stature, therefore swiftness would be in their favour.
"Haldir bids you wear this," came the familiar voice of Cendir as he jogged towards the Princess holding an intricately made helmet, part of the Imladris armour she now wore.
Ellenya turned and scowled at the object and then at the elf; "I asked my brother to send me elven archers and he sends me you and your poor shot! And I do not wear helmets they are restrictive."
"I scared your horse did I not?" Cendir grinned wickedly and unceremoniously clunked the helmet over Ellenya's head, "It suits you!"
"I think maybe you are pushing the boundaries of our new friendship Cendir." Ellenya hissed as she readjusted the helmet, sighing at how it restricted her vision.
"I thought you liked pushing boundaries," he chuckled but then turned serious, "The army is close it will begin soon, the curtain wall below you is manned with what elves and men we can spare. I should like to stay and take a position from here."
"Granted," Ellenya smiled in answer, "We should be most grateful of your company, just make sure you hit the enemy and not us."
Cendir pulled a face and took an elevated position on the raised wall of the turret, whilst Ellenya did her best to summon as much courage from the youth and men in her command as she could. Their earlier determination quickly disappearing with the terrifying growls and snarls of the Uruk army as it came to halt before the great walls of Helms deep. Rain began to pelt down hard and heavy on them, distorting vision and further dampening morale.
"Have faith friends," Ellenya whispered and with one last look she hopped up unto the wall with Cendir, her own heart hammering in her chest. This was not a battle this was an annihilation it would be all they could do to withstand the siege and wait for help. She closed her eyes and silently prayed for courage, for protection and for hope; hope that Elladan would return and with him a small chance they could survive this.
Beside Ellenya, Cendir breathed deeply his eyes darting around the mass of ugly and deformed faces that held murderous looks. He looked to the elleth at his side and with her nod he loaded his bow and took aim, silently hoping his Gwyneth would escape these shores and never learn of such evil. He would take her away himself if he survived this and if he did not then he prayed she had the good sense to leave as soon as she could.
The air was thick with dread and fear, Ellenya motioned for those armed with bows to take aim, as she herself loaded her brother's old bow and readied herself for war. She did not fear death nor did she fear pain, there was nothing this army could do to her which had not already been inflicted upon her. So here she vowed to endure until dawn, she vowed to protect all she could until hope would come, and this unlikely journey the Valar had set her on could be resolved. With an animalistic cry in the distance the beginning of the fight was declared and Ellenya let her first arrow fly, she smiled darkly as it penetrated her first victim, no she would not fall this night.
In the words of Theoden..."So it begins."
Will work hard on the next chapter and in the meantime please let me know what you's are thinking, do you like or do you dislike? Did you like Haldir's little disclosure? I may write a short compliment to this story later on, elaborating on Orniel and Haldir, is that a good idea?
And if I am not speaking to any of you hobbit and lord of the rings fans by the weekend...enjoy the desolation of smaug XD #fangirling
