This chapter has been revised! The scene where Eredhel is speaking with Glorfindel has changed because he is such an amazing character and he deserves more depth.
The sun was high in the sky as Legolas made his way to the training grounds of Rivendell. Tomorrow his companions would set out on their journey home and tonight there would be a banquet held for all the guests. He had decided to head to the archery field for some practice as he found it cleared his head when it became overwhelmed with thoughts. The training grounds were located on the very edge of the valley and he was walking on a crushed stone path lined with wildflowers and small bushes. He had visited Rivendell a few times and was familiar with the cobweb of trails that many found confusing. The afternoon was breezy and warm, sunlight streaming through the trees. As Legolas got close to the field he heard the twang of a bowstring followed by the soft thud of an arrow hitting its target. Taking the final turn in the path, he came out into the open grounds and grinned in recognition of the archer.
Eredhel preferred the simple tunic and leggings of a traveler to the intricate dresses or robes of most elves, often dressing in shades of grey or deep green to camouflage her during her travels. Her head held a noble circlet, a twisting design made in the likeness of branches. Her dark hair fell halfway down her back and her eyes were a starlit grey, identical to Lord Elrond's. When she and Aragorn delivered Gollum to Mirkwood, the Ranger had immediately started with his usual badgering about how Legolas was attracted to her. It was true of course but despite Legolas' attempts to convince him otherwise, Aragorn refused to let it go. He had continued to grin for over almost half an hour and when Eredhel had asked the reason, he had lamely told her he was simply relieved to be rid of Gollum.
Returning to the present, Legolas adjusted his grip on his bow and made his way down the field. Hearing him approach, Eredhel turned and smiled. "Greetings Prince of Mirkwood. I see you have passed up the gardens of the valley for the grounds of the archery field," she said.
"Well with all those council members around this is the only place where one can find some peace and quiet. Also, I think you only call me that because you know the title irritates me. I'm soon going to resort to referring to you as the Lady of Rivendell." He watched her cringe and laughed. The sound seemed foreign to him, he had not felt mirthful in ages. With the increasing darkness in Mirkwood the Prince had become sombre and grim, burdened by evil that was seeping into his home.
"Well matched," she conceded. Eredhel was much freer with her words than her kin. She was often quiet but when she did speak her thoughts were honest and not the bland, overly polite speech of most high ranking elves. Legolas found it refreshing after the constant formalities he faced in Mirkwood.
"Yes well this time I do believe I'm going to do more than match you," he said. In one swift motion he raised his bow and aimed an arrow at a target over a hundred feet away. The arrow sunk into the center of the bull's-eye. Satisfied, he turned to her with his eyebrows raised. They were both very talented archers and Legolas was rather competitive with her. Eredhel contemplated him for a moment then drew an arrow from her quiver and placed it on the string, smirking as she let it go. The arrow hit the tip of Legolas' previous shot and knocked it out of the target. He frowned and the contest began. At first they competed at accuracy but when both of them failed to miss their mark they were forced to move onto distance. Legolas would take a shot and then Eredhel would have to match or best it. As usual they soon became frustrated when it became apparent that a victory would not come easily.
After two hours of firing at increasingly difficult targets they finally had to call it a tie. Both respected the other for their skill and always enjoyed such challenges. Collecting their arrows they bid each other farewell and went their separate paths to prepare for the evening's festivities. Eredhel took a shortcut through the forest, her mind buzzing with thoughts. She had always looked forward to trips to Mirkwood for Legolas would insist on guiding her around the forest. They had passed hours wandering among the trees. Diverging from other royal elves she knew he did not request respect but would rather earn it, casting off any given to him by his ancestry. He was relaxed and she always found herself at ease around him. Eredhel had met Lord Thranduil, although he was not as kind as Lord Elrond he was a fearsome ruler and Legolas shared his father's looks. She had never been able to be angry with him for long, all he had to do was fix her in his bright blue eyes. Eredhel grimaced and snapped herself out of it, a pang echoing through her chest. She pushed the thoughts away, continuing through the trees and came out of the forest into the back garden of her father's halls. Making her way through the ancient corridors she pushed open the door of her room and stepped inside. She caught only a glimpse of a red dress and long dark hair before she was swept into a tight embrace. "Are you certain you have the right room? Aragorn's is just down the south hall," she suggested as Arwen released her.
"No, I'm quite sure this is the right one" Arwen laughed, her voice bright and silvery. She draped her hair over one shoulder as they sat on the bed. "You've been quite busy, I have hardly had the chance to speak with you."
"Yes, I am sorry. I had to take up the Guard and then I had some of my own affairs to attend to."
"You have been gone far too long. We have missed you. Father especially, he has wondered where you have been and hoped for your return."
"Indeed, I traveled far. I will miss Elladan and Elrohir, adar told me they rode North," said Eredhel.
"They will regret not being here." Arwen sighed. "It's a shame you cannot stay for more than a few weeks."
"Well I may return after my journey to Lórien, though I would prefer not to."
"Have you talked with father at all besides during the Council?" asked Arwen and it was evident she was troubled.
"I spoke with him when he was not tending to Frodo as well as when we met after the Council but I did not mention my intentions," her sister replied.
"You should have told him. Honestly Eredhel, before you left he would entrust you with his most important errands. He could depend on you to do whatever it was he asked. Now you barely ever see him," she said sadly.
"Well one of those important errands is exactly why I stayed! He knows I would do anything he asked of me. Plus there were more important things to talk about. He had many questions," said Eredhel defensively, "for myself and for Aragorn." she added, hoping to change the subject.
"I was speaking with him last night." Arwen smiled.
"Father is aware of what you have decided?" asked Eredhel, relieved that it had worked.
"Yes and he has wearily accepted my decision. Both he and Aragorn have advised me against it but I am gaining much more than I am losing."
"Well it is your choice and yours alone. I'm sure you're planning on seeing him at the banquet," said Eredhel.
"Ah yes! Speaking of tonight..." Arwen rose and went to the wardrobe. She pulled out a dress and set it on the bed. "I oversaw the making of it. The eldest daughter of a lord can hardly show up in the garb of a traveler!"
"But the Captain of the Guard can, I could say that I am on duty. Or what if I just don't go at all?" suggested Eredhel and Arwen frowned.
"You've been all on your own, away from home for years! The last time you did attend such an event you and Aragorn snuck off to the training grounds to spar! It will not kill you to come and enjoy the evening's festivities," Arwen said firmly. "Plus so much work was put into this dress, it would be a pity not to wear it." Eredhel studied the gown for a moment. It was navy blue with silver intertwining leaves and flowers embroidered at the waist and hem. It was tight on and above the waist with a skirt that fell at the hips. The sleeves would reach her forearms. Even for elvish make it was beautiful and Arwen was studying her expression hopefully.
"It is wonderful. Thank you, I would be happy to wear it this evening" she said and her sister beamed.
"Good. I cannot wait to see you in it but for now I must leave you for I myself have some preparing to do." She winked and was about to leave the room but hesitated. "Eredhel, you've not been troubled-"
"Please Arwen, not now," Eredhel said softly.
Her sister looked at her sadly, "As you wish," she said and left the room, shutting the door behind her. Eredhel closed her eyes, gathered her thoughts and got up. The sun was low in the sky and she donned the blue dress, pulling the sleeves down past her elbows. She then sat in front of the long mirror and took a small section of hair from each side of her parting and intricately braided them to the back of her head. Eredhel tucked her long silver chain beneath the dress and made her way down the open hall, a light breeze ruffling her hair. Stopping on a landing, she paused a moment and breathed deeply. She had always preferred the grey light of dusk to the brightness of day. It was quiet and peaceful and when traveling it was much easier to conceal herself in the near darkness. She would rather be riding through the forest or sitting around a campfire with the Rangers than attending this banquet. Finally she stepped into a large porch much like the one that had held the Council only hours ago. Eredhel sighed and briefly closed her eyes. It was going to be a long night.
Frodo looked around in wonder. The open room was filled with warm light and leaves were falling to the ground all around. He was sitting across from Bilbo, who was in discussion with a dwarf he was old friends with. The wooden table was laden with every elven dish imaginable and Frodo eagerly piled food onto his plate. As he ate, he scanned the faces of those around him and his eyes fell upon Lord Elrond. The elf was dressed in robes of deep maroon and his eyes gleamed from beneath his wise brow. He sat regally at the head of the table and was deep in conversation with Gandalf. Frodo caught a few words of their conversation and realized they were talking about the Fellowship. He did not want to think of the long quest before him so he switched his gaze to Eredhel and his eyes widened as he stared at her. She looked so different without her green cloak and travel worn clothes. She was both terrible and splendid, surveying her surroundings with a bored expression. Her eyes were filled with the wisdom and experience of countless years on the earth. She suddenly turned towards him and he quickly looked away.
Continuing his survey of the guests down the row he eventually arrived at Legolas. The hobbit grinned to himself as he noticed how the prince's calm eyes often shifted towards Eredhel when there was a pause in the talk among his companions. Frodo was considering this when his attention was drawn from the other side of the table by Bilbo. "My lad you must hear this story that one of the dwarves have just recounted!" he said excitedly. Frodo nodded and the old hobbit began his tale which concerned several kegs of ale, a broken hammer and a very stubborn pony.
Meanwhile across the table, Eredhel sat stiffly in her chair. She listened to the conversation between Gandalf and her father, occasionally commenting but leaving them to do most of the talking. She was not very hungry and merely picked at the leafy greens in front of her, waiting for the feast to end. A hand tapped gently on her shoulder and she turned to the hobbit sitting next to her. "I completed my poem, a few days after your last departure. It would be a great honor to have it judged by whom it was inspired. Would you care to hear it?" asked Bilbo. Eredhel smiled, he was obsessed with books and writing. She could still remember when he had first told her Strider's riddle. Immediately after she had expressed her praise for his efforts, Bilbo had started on a similar piece for her.
"Of course. You are a master of words, though I do not know how you managed to write anything about me," she answered. He gave her a wave of his hand before clearing his throat and taking on the air of someone who was much accustomed to the telling of stories and reciting of poems.
"There is one who is widely known but rarely seen,
over mountain and valley, there are few places she has not been.
Traveling by stars, slaying foes in the night,
she works in the dark to aid the light.
With shining eyes and raven hair, the name of Protector is hers to bear.
For when evil reaches out His hand, the Varyor will guard our land."
A satisfied smile spread across his face as he waited expectantly for her appraisal. "Another epic work, though I must say your description of me was slightly exaggerated," said Eredhel and Bilbo laughed.
"Yes, well a very wise old man once told me all good stories deserve embellishment. And yours is one of my favorites."
"Indeed. Yet I couldn't help but notice that, unlike Aragorn's, mine says very little about my fate." Bilbo fixed her in his gaze, and for a moment she felt like he could see every part of her, hear every thought she kept buried so deep.
"That is because unlike Strider, your fate is truly yours to choose. He is bound to the future of Gondor, whether he likes it or not. For if he does not reclaim the throne then no one ever will. You however may do as you wish, you could sail with your kin, aid in the fight against our enemy or even decide to give up right now and fade from the weariness of immortality. The freedom to decide is a great gift but also a great responsibility. Choose wisely for your fate is deeply intertwined with that of many others, you have both the power to save lives and to end them." Bilbo's attention was suddenly drawn by a dwarf across the table and his merry disposition returned. He gave her a quick nod then turned to speak to the mountain dweller. Eredhel was silent for the rest of the feast, deep in thought about what the hobbit had said. It had rattled her to realize that such heavy weight was placed upon her actions.
When the feast finally finished and all the guests were pleasantly full, Lord Elrond rose. Everyone followed him down the steps into the Hall of Fire. Here there would be music and storytelling for the remainder of the night. When unoccupied, the hall was the perfect place to sit and think as you stared into the crackling flames. The great fire was kept going all year long and was the only source of light in the room. Half a dozen elves dressed in long white robes stood next to it, each with his or her own instrument. They would tell all the great tales and sing the ballads that accompanied them. Although the minstrels were the most skilled at the art, anyone was welcome to perform. The music of the elves was renowned, their voices unmatched by any other race. Most of the guests had already crowded in and Eredhel found herself standing next to a small group of dwarves in deep discussion about battle axes. Searching through the crowd she saw Aragorn sitting in a dark corner and made her way over to take a seat by him. He gave her a smirk as she reached him. "What?" she asked.
"Our friend from Mirkwood has not taken his eyes off of you since you arrived," he explained amusedly. "Though I can understand why. You look magnificent, I'm guessing this is Arwen's work?"
"Thank you and yes it is. It's only because of her that I'm attending this evening yet she is nowhere to be found," Eredhel grumbled and Aragorn chuckled. "Are you sure you won't consider dropping out with me?" she begged.
"No I'm afraid I can't. Your sister specifically requested that I stay. I don't believe she has quite forgiven us for leaving the last time we attended such an event." He then glimpsed Arwen talking to a dark haired elf and rose, "You will have to face this evening on your own mellon-nin," he said and giving her a good-natured wave made his way through the crowd to her sister. Eredhel scowled. The elf sat for several moments before rising and walking along the edge of the porch towards the low wall. It was then that she saw Glorfindel looking out over the balcony, far out of the firelight. As she made her way over to him she could see that he was grimacing, his hands tight on the wooden rail. He looked over at her as she reached him.
"Tis a rare sight to see you in Imladris, much less attending a feast." The golden haired elf tried to smile but his lips faltered and fell into a thin line.
"Well this is somewhat of a special occasion seeing as I have not been home in several years. It is also quite rare for you to venture into the Hall of Fire," she said gently, laying a hand on his arm. Glorfindel closed his eyes tightly and took a deep breath as he tried to hold back the images burning in his mind.
"It is far too warm for my liking," he said, chuckling blackly as he shook his head. Eredhel placed a cool hand on his cheek and realized his skin was hot. His eyes were still closed and his fingers were beginning to turn white. "No, Idril run!" cried Glorfindel suddenly. His eyes opened, unseeing and searching for the Balrog. Eredhel took his fair face in her hands, knowing all too well the demons he was fighting.
"Mellon-nin, you are not in Gondolin, the city fell. The Balrog is no more." After a moment his eyes focused and he slumped slightly, leaning heavily against the railing.
"There are times when I can still feel the flames licking my skin," he said wearily.
"I know, you feel as if you are truly there, your mind betrays you."
"Alas, it seems my memories did not find rest with my body high on that mountain." Glorfindel shook his head from side to side, trying to clear his mind. "I will expect to hear a full account of your travels before you depart once more," he said, trying to smile as he moved to a happier subject.
"Yes, I have missed our long talks," answered Eredhel, trying to lighten the mood.
"More like debates, you're one of the most stubborn elves I know." Glorfindel laughed and for a moment his face brightened. It was a musical and enchanting sound, everything about him shone with light. The golden haired elf was wise and powerful. Her friend had taught her many things and never failed to see the hope in dark times. "There has been enough sorrow tonight, I think I will retire to the library."
"Yes, do not burden yourself here any longer." She said as she cast a glance at the low wall behind them. Glorfindel followed her gaze and shook his head, chuckling.
"Ah, you're not staying either. Would you like me to cover you?"
"That would be most helpful," she replied. Eredhel stood poised against the wall, ready to jump while Glorfindel scanned the crowd to make sure no one was looking. After a moment he nodded. She smiled gratefully and hopped over the wall. Landing in the stone yard below, she continued on through the gardens, leaves floating to the ground around her. The night was clear and the sky was filled with stars. Behind her she could still hear the faint sounds of a harp and an elleth singing the song of Eärendil. He was Lord Elrond's father and the elves' greatest mariner. The song was beautiful and told of his silver ship crafted in Valinor that sailed on the raging sea.
Following the wide path Eredhel stopped under a sycamore tree next to a small pool. Straightening her legs out onto the soft grass, she sat beneath the tree and leaned her back against the rough trunk. She picked up a leaf from the ground and twirled it between her fingers, admiring the silvery veins that covered its surface. This was where she would always come when there was a celebration. Eredhel did not enjoy large crowds or the politics of high elves. She preferred the calm and quiet of the gardens where she could be alone with her thoughts. These thoughts were interrupted however when she sensed someone walking towards her. Their feet made hardly a sound upon the ground so it had to be an elf. Praying it wasn't Lord Elrond, she turned her head slightly to identify her visitor. She was pleased to find it was none other than the Prince of Mirkwood. "Hello Legolas," she greeted him.
He did not reply until he was standing in front of her, "I thought I'd find you here, would you mind if I sat?" he asked.
"Not at all," Eredhel replied. He lowered himself to the ground, crossing his legs. Eredhel only noticed how close they were when his shoulder brushed hers and she looked over at him. "Are you not enjoying the festivities?" she asked.
"They are pleasant but I've been to my fair share of them in Mirkwood and..."
"You find such formalities tiring." she finished for him and although his expression remained the same she could sense he was surprised.
"Is it that obvious?"
"No, but I have known you long and I've seen the way you avoid them in the King's halls. I often find myself in the same situation." Eredhel sighed and leaned her head onto Legolas' shoulder, inhaling the smell of earth and wood. She frowned suddenly, remembering their meeting at the entrance to the valley. "You looked at me oddly when I greeted you the other day, was something wrong?" Beside her Legolas sucked in a deep breath before answering.
"Before I left my father informed me that you had sailed. I-I was greatly saddened by the news of your departure and when I heard your voice coming from the trees I thought my mind was making a fool of me," he explained.
"That is strange indeed," she said as her frown deepened. "I do not know how such information reached King Thranduil but I have no intention of sailing for Valinor anytime soon despite what my father may hope."
"Well I for one am quite glad to have you stay," he gave her arm a squeeze as he continued. "He and I were speaking when I noticed you slip out and courteously took my leave. Fear not however for I do not think he is aware of your absence."
"Good. When we both lived in Rivendell or on the rare occasion we were both visiting at the same time, Aragorn usually joined me but tonight he found himself otherwise occupied," she said with a smirk.
"Yes I noticed. When I last saw him he was going for a stroll with the enchanting Arwen." He grinned, "Whose beauty is only matched by that of her sister." he added and Eredhel shook her head, chuckling.
"You flatter me. I was surprised we even got to speak with him the other night for he has been passing all his free hours with her. My sister loves him but he does not believe himself worthy of her heart."
"My flattery is well deserved," he said. "Even with his extended mortality Arwen will outlive him many lifetimes over."
"No, she won't. I'm sure you have noticed as well as I the jewel Aragorn now carries." Eredhel arched an eyebrow.
"The Evenstar?" said Legolas incredulously.
"Yes, she is willing to give up her immortality for him," she explained and the two fell silent for a few moments as they looked up at the stars. Legolas was especially quiet and she could tell there was something on his mind.
"What burdens your thoughts?" Eredhel asked.
"The Ring's influence is powerful. Gandalf has already withstood the test, an elf's will is not easily broken, and I have faith in the strength of Aragorn's heart. The hobbits would never betray their companion and though his kind are obsessed with gold the dwarf is of sound mind. However..."
"You are worried about the Captain," she stated.
"Yes." Legolas admitted. "Even the noblest men can be easily corrupted. I will have to mention my concerns to Aragorn."
"He already knows, as does Gandalf. We discussed it after the Council had concluded. It was decided that all you can do is keep a close eye on him. If I was not needed, I would have offered to help Frodo." A sigh escaped her lips as she thought of the weight the hobbit carried.
"Well that does ease my mind a bit and yes, Aragorn and I were surprised that you did not volunteer for the Fellowship."
"My father asked a favor of me, I could not refuse. If Elladan and Elrohir were here I would gladly join you. I wish my brothers had not departed, then I could accompany Aragorn. I fear that he doubts himself," she said sadly.
"How long have you known the heir of Isildur?" asked Legolas.
"Ever since my father took him in. I had just returned after several years of travel when he was brought to Rivendell. I rarely left home while he grew up and he is like a brother to me. Only months after his true lineage was revealed to him I left Imladris and did not return again for close to twenty years. Aragorn left soon after I did, taking the path of a Ranger. We travel together often and I see him more than I do most of my elven kin. I can only hope that he will one day sit upon the throne of Gondor for he will make a great king," said Eredhel hopefully.
"Well perhaps he will find some hope before we set out onto the road. We will practice together again while we are both here?"
"Of course, although this time we should use horses. As long as you're able to keep up with me that is." Eredhel raised her eyebrows.
"I'm looking forward to it," he said and a smirk spread across his face. After that they sat there for most of the night, Legolas told her what had been happening in Mirkwood for she loved the great forest almost as much as he did. He had never met someone from outside his home who took such a liking to it. The ancient trees had seen much in their long lives upon the earth and their roots ran deep. Eredhel could see the toll that the illness of his home was taking on him. When she and Aragorn had met him at the forest border he had seem tired and even now there was a weariness to his eyes.
She in return told him of her travels which ranged from Ered Luin down to Pelargir and along the borders of Mordor. She had seen and heard many things. On the rare occasion when she took the road, the men she came upon asked for news from the North. Her ill tidings were met with equal news from the South. But not all her tales were dark, she also spoke fondly of the Shire and the ocean air of Lond Daer although the once great harbor had now fallen to ruin.
The moon was high in the sky and the sound of voices from the hall had become a low hum when they bid each other goodnight. Eredhel slowly took the path back to her house, enjoying the sound of wind rustling in the trees. Although she was often away from home she loved the elven valley. The constant gurgle of rushing waterfalls was calming and the magic that flowed through the earth was strong. Once in her room she shut the door and removed the dress, placing it back in the wardrobe. Looking through a cupboard, she donned leggings and a maroon tunic. She let loose her hair then braided the top half to keep it out of her eyes. Eredhel did not need or want rest so she decided to walk her favorite trails.
Going to the balcony she placed one hand on the railing and swung over it, falling to the ground below. The cool grass was soft against her bare feet as she walked beneath the whispering trees. After a few moments she stepped onto the smooth stone path, following it along the outer edge of the valley. She continued until she came to a white gazebo overlooking a silver pool. Stopping in front of it she smiled to herself as she remembered a similar night years ago.
It had been late summer when she had been spending a week in Rivendell and Legolas had arrived with a message from King Thranduil. She had been standing in the gazebo looking at the reflection of the stars when she sensed him approaching. He had leaned out over the railing next to her, his blond hair shining in the pale moonlight. They had spoken mainly of the news he brought from Mirkwood. An evil could be felt from Dol Guldur and giant spiders had been spotted among the trees. It was obvious to see that Legolas was worried about his home. He looked up at the stars, searching for answers among the thousands of winking lights. "They are beautiful," whispered Eredhel as she gazed up at them.
"Indeed," said Legolas as eyes flicked to the elf beside him. She was smiling and suddenly turned to him, an idea coming to her.
"Follow me, I want to show you something," she said, grabbing his arm. They walked through a long garden until they came to stone steps leading up into the cliff. They climbed them and came out at the top, overlooking Rivendell. Curtains of ivy hung from the trees around them and waterfalls fell from each side of the hills into the Bruinen River. It felt as if they were standing on top of the entire world. Legolas took a deep breath and the fresh air filled his lungs. The houses of Imladris twinkled below them. They moved to stand at the very edge and wind whipped their hair around them.
"This is incredible," he breathed.
"Well I owe you for showing me around Mirkwood," said Eredhel.
"It was no trouble." Legolas smiled warmly. Eredhel was snapped out of the memory by the sound of footsteps approaching her. She turned around to see an elf of her father's house pass along the trail. He inclined his head in her direction and she nodded at him before returning to look at the still water. Eredhel whispered a quiet prayer to the Valar that the Fellowship would succeed. Over an hour passed before she turned from the pool and made her way back to the house.