Languages:

'Valari words/ or Erika's mother tongue'

"Quenya/Sindarin"

"Westron/Common tongue"

"Others"

Disclaimer: LOTR and Silmarillion are properties of J.R.R. Tolkien and Tolkien Estates. None of the songs used in the story are mine too and only borrowed for entertainment purposes.

AN:

Another late update, sorry huhu. So many things happen irl including work transfering, cousin and aunt's passing away and so much arrangement about my small business. I was jam packed and then fell ill LOL but i'm still alive ( ≧ ▽ ≦ ).

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

Chapter 19

Alcariel

'Then if the decision would be left to me, as your chief, my brethren, It is my will to bring back Ulumiel here in Aman and allow her to heal what ails her ëalar. As a leader that is what I want to happen, however all rights are for Ulmo to take as she is his sire.' Manwë said with slight annoyance, and the king of the seas did not hide his grin upon sensing his friend being passive-aggressive.

'I agree with that, my friend. Her safety should be our priorities.' Oromë agreed to their chief's suggestion. Manwë gave him a nod.

'She belongs to the sea as much as she belongs to Aman, my brethren. She cannot be tied by the rules of the land, she will yearn for the deep and if I will base it according to Ossë's observance to the young one, I would guess she will frustrate everyone here with her stubbornness.' Ulmo calmly said.

'Well, the apple falls not far from the tree.' Estë said with a smile.

'And do pardon me for already prying, my friend.' Varda said with a humorous voice. 'For though I knew you have casted a spell that would hide her existence from the eyes of my beloved,—'

'Wait, what?'

'I did use my hearing to hear the hearts of those surrounding her. And I have found this one great Firstborn, a mighty ellon in his own right, harbours great love for our little one, —'

'What?!'

'Which I believe, based on what I observe through the lenses of his eyes, is a love that is mutual.'

Chaos ensued in the tongues of the Ainur.

At that, Ulmo's eyebrows knotted along with the indignant reaction of his brethren. Oromë and Manwë in particular have almost exactly the same hardened expressions. Aulë seemed really worried while his wife smiled with amusement twinkling in her eyes. Namó's head is haloed with dark shadow while his brother closed his eyes like in meditation, probably seeking answers about it in his visions, though it might be fruitless. Tulkas frowned and Nienna smiled fondly. The rest were voicing their opinions about love.

Truly that unless she is not in the vicinity of his power, Ulmo can see or hear everything Ulumiel does. For water is his domain and all parts of it that are full of life. But on the lands, Varda can hear everything as much as nothing can escape Manwë's sight. The valië would never jest about it.

'That cannot be! She is too young to bond!' Manwë said in shock and indignance.

'The audacity! An elf dares to covet the daughter of the sea! Child of the Aratar!' Oromë seconded as if offended.

'The little one might be swayed by their beauty. Should we move before something drastic happens?' Tulkas said as if in panic.

'Should we bring her here, now at this instant?' Irmo Loríen chimed, his expression tainted with uneasiness.

'Seeking mate with a Valarindi, well one should be good at heart for him to be worthy to bond with her.' Aulë commented.

'He should have great achievements and is honourable. If one is a kinslayer then it is a love that shall not be allowed for his sin would be a heavy burden that Ulumiel would also carry.' Námo said.

'Ulmo, my friend, why do you even allow this? In a hundred Valian years maybe, it shall be permitted but now is too early. We barely even managed to find out about her existence and yet there is this one ellon who covets her even before the Valar can set their gazes upon her?' Manwë ranted, still sour about what he heard and the fact that he did not see these things with his own eyes. 'And who is it, this Firstborn who is biting far more than he can chew?'

Varda smiled in amusement. 'It is Laurefindil, son of Findis. The one whom you have sent back to Arda as your emissary.'

Manwë paused for a second upon hearing the name. Their brethren also fell into silent realisation, that elf is a bad news. He's an honourable one. And not a kinslayer.

'Well… he is an honourable Firstborn indeed. But I still stand by what I said! Not now that she is too young!'

'He is also a very handsome ellon.' Vaná said in delight.

'And a kind one.' Nienna silently commented.

'Well my beloved sister rarely finds anyone beautiful enough to be complimented.' Yavanna said in surprise.

'I am sure that their children would be adorable, elder sister.'

Oromë frowned. 'My love, it is our young who is at stake here. There should be no children nor any bond yet, like our chief said, maybe in a hundred Valian years!'

'But, Oromë, none can change it anymore when a heart decides what it wants. You know that.' Vaná said in response.

'That is right. And besides, I heard just fairly recently that they are already sharing the same chamber.' Varda said, still amused and feeding more oil into the fire. Again, everyone is commenting on their own thoughts, some were livid and some were astonished. 'Be at ease though, my brothers and sisters. For the ellon is honourable indeed and just shared his own chambers so that the little one has her privacy.'

'Or so he could keep her for himself!' Manwë almost barked with a horrified expression. 'Ulmo, I am telling you this now as a friend, remove your spell! I would like to see her with my own eyes!'

'Alright, alright, I will do that once she goes back to the deep.' the king of the seas said with exasperation. To be fair, he felt more pity than anger at the ellon for he alone will face the wrath of the Valar. And then of course his fatherly wrath would be different. Only the king of the seas is confident that the ellon will not do anything his child will not give consent to or anything dishonourable.

'My love, she has four owl friends, maybe you can use them to watch over her.' Varda suggested.

'Splendid suggestion, my love.'

'And Orome…' the hunter paused, waiting for her words. 'A pack of white wolves now follows wherever she goes.'

'I thank thee, my queen.' Vaná giggled at the sight of her spouse, pleased that he can also have eyes to guard their young.

Should Ulmo also beseech Ossë's annoying and loud sea ducks? But those things would not be able to live if they can not eat fish from time to time. They will be more of a problem than help.

'I have decided.' Ulmo said that took the attention of his brethren. For he is someone who will rarely speak unless it is a matter of importance. 'The next time Ulumiel goes back to the deep waters, I will introduce myself. She is somewhat aware of my presence already and thanks to her curiosity, she is not afraid.'

'It might be because of your bond to her.' Vairë said. 'Now that she is known and no longer hidden from the eyes of the Valar, I can now weave her existence into the story of Ëa. Even if her cursed Ëalar did not root from Ëa itself.'

'We should find a way to completely remove the curse away from her, hence the power of her birthright will not emerge and she will not be able to become a full Ainu. She will always be stranded to her faná and living the grey areas of her existence, neither immortal nor mortal until it exhausts her will to live, for it is a mortal soul dwelling in an unaging form or until the curse itself consumes her.' Estë gravely said.

'For that, though clues were not given, I will persistently ask our Father.' Manwë said firmly. 'For her sire might be Ulmo, and my eyes have not seen her yet nor have even held her in my arms, I love her as if she is my own. But I am duty bound as well to bring her back here for her existence might bring great disturbance in the fate of Arda which even the Valar cannot interfere directly.'

Ulmo smiled softly, though he did not mean to deny his brethren the chance to rejoice her existence, he made the choice to bring her in the land of mortals because he thought it would be a better option. It is not the best, but as wise of a deity that he is, he has no idea how to be a father. Observing her from afar is what he thought was best for both of them.

Varda smiled at the sincere words of her spouse for she felt the same. Long she has wondered what a mother feels, to experience it more than to understand it and now she knows. Thrilled, joy and fondness now swims in her heart, excited to see the child of their brethren. And Varda is sure that everyone who is present inside the Mahanaxár feels the same.

It seems that Taniquetil has a lot of celebrations to prepare.

'Then we shall prepare for our Valarindi, which is finally coming home. This council is adjourned.'

-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Had she known that there will be danger lurking in the gentle green woods, she would have chosen to stay at home. It was not unusual for her not to bring guards at all when she was taking a walk in her beloved evergreen forest. Its beauty gives joy to the eyes and its tranquillity brings peace for a tired soul. Every leaf flutters with a lovely sound when the gentle wind whispers, you will not hear anything but the singing of birds and the sound of animals living inside of it. There is also a faint sound of the small river's stream from afar adding a subtle white noise.

Sometimes if your hearing is like her beloved husband, whose ears are sharper than anyone, you would hear the wings of a butterfly jumping from one flower to another. Bees buzzing from somewhere and sometimes squirrels squeaking to another fighting over a tree nut.

But that was before this day and the worst part of it is that her beloved son is with her. She knew he was following behind her with constant vigilance a child can possibly give. She indulged him with a smile, thinking he is doing great at hiding his presence and when he tried to surprise her, Alcariel acted as if surprised. Her son laughed and she lifted him up from the ground and him gently before showering his cheeks with kisses. The little one laughed merrily through his mother's ticklish affection.

Alcariel fondly smiled when her son gave her kisses as well. Both of them walked through the forest in peace until she heard animals crying from somewhere. And it was not just a simple cry, but a cry of an animal being butchered without mercy. Alcariel decided not to check it even though she so badly wanted it, it must have been a deer, but whatever attacked the nimble animal could possibly attack her. If she is alone, she could outrun them but her little son is with her. And she would never risk his safety.

She took him again to her arms, carrying her with a grip so tight he started complaining about it. Alcariel apologised but still held on to him. She could hear it, there were loud footsteps in the forest, something that happens rarely and it scared her. No, it terrified her because she knew they were everywhere and they were being surrounded.

"Nana…" her son called with a voice coated in fear after hearing a sound that is distinct only from the orcs. His little sharp ears have never heard a sound like that before but it sent terror down to his spine.

Alcariel feared for her son's life, she took off the sandals on her feet and started to run as fast as her legs could carry her, trying to dodge branches and jumping through thick protruding tree roots. She only needs to go to the area where the marchwardens are stationed, they will hear their flight for sure.

But it was nothing but a futile attempt when a large warg jumped in front of her and tens of orcs bombarded through the green forest, ferociously growling right in front of her.

She prayed to the Valar for strength for she needed it now more than anything. Not for her safety, but for the little one on her arms who were shaking like a little green leaf.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

"Heal the world…"

I shook my head, they have been singing this song for three days straight. With the men on common tongue and with the elves on their language. Apparently they really loved it and decided to share it with others and now many were singing the MJ song.

When Glorfindel heard about the song he had the same reaction and said I was amazing even though I clearly told them that it's not even my song. I don't want any copyright infringement notice from DMCA.

Things have been going well with the reconstruction of the city and surprisingly, other small cities nearby reached out to provide extra help especially for the construction of the fallen houses. The elves were quite surprised when I told them that maybe this time the city could be at least built again with a good human waste management plan to avoid future problems like epidemic and even deadly plagues. When they asked me where I got this idea, I told them blankly that it's hard to take a dump so far away from where I was staying. Not like I was complaining about the old fashioned way of living but there's a whole lot of health benefits in living in a healthy and managed environment. When I told them the watered-down version of the story of black plague that happened 'from my home', they quickly understood my point and began thinking about a new plan.

All in all, the city is becoming more stable day by day and some of the elves of Lindon began their departure back to their elven city. Glorfindel left the overseeing of the city walls to the city's new mayor, the daughter of Hèor, Miren, since he was also planning to leave Mamgobel after a few days.

Together with some of the elven warriors, they ride again on nearby lands and forest for one last time to check any traces of evil lurking around the city and other human settlements nearby.

I was still around giving a hand on random things that I can see like helping on the laundry, on the community kitchen tent, or gardening and even babysitting kids. I taught them the games I used to play when I was a kid like Patintero* and hopscotch. I wish there's a ball here and I'll teach them to play some ball games as well but at least I can see that they are enjoying the games I taught them, it helps them forget about the bad things that happened and continue to be children.

At night, Faeron will pull me in some random elven gathering and they will play music and sing. It would have been okay if they're just singing their ethereal sounding songs with their equally ethereal sounding voices but they kept singing Heal the World every night. It would have been fine if only Faeron and the singer elves or in a fancy term, elven bards, were not doing that on purpose just so I will be forced to teach them another song. Though not as poetic as the songs of the elves, they said the songs I sang were soulful and heartfelt.

Nineties child and grew up in the twenty-first century, baby. That was one of the best eras of music. But of course I'm still keeping that fact from them and just let them think that 'my home' has a lot of talented individuals. Which is true. I just can't tell them that I'm possibly an alien and came from another planet.

I taught Faeron more songs, especially love songs. He particularly loves Can't Fight This Feeling by REO Speedwagon, maybe because I teased him at first that it kinda speaks about his love life. I suddenly imagine Faeron's reaction if I ever show him an mp3 player or browse thousands of songs on Youtube. He would love it for sure.

Every night we're not doing anything but jamming and it was really fun.

So many things have been changing in the city, but what didn't change was the sleeping arrangements of my tentmate and I. We've become too comfortable in each other's presence when we sleep that it has reached the point that I feel so shameless. But he was not complaining and in fact, he developed a habit of not sleeping if I'm not next to him. I mean I don't mind being his security pillow but he was so sweet that it's starting to feel dangerous. I told myself I should not take advantage of his kindness but I don't know why my stomach developed a bad case of flying butterflies.

Is it really that easy to like someone on a different level? I should not do this or else I feel like it would be awkward to face him in the future and I don't want that to happen. He's a dear friend first and foremost.

And what's with my heart weirdly ba-dump-ing whenever he smiles? I think I need to stop myself from having a crush at this age.

I broke away from my thoughts when I heard a sudden commotion. It was late dusk at that time and I was inside the tent fixing mine and Glorfindel's freshly washed sets of clothes into our travelling bag. The owls were inside perched around as if it's their job to watch how well I was folding them.

Five elves riding elven horses rushed inside the city and stopped right in front of Glorfindel's tent where I was currently in. Glorfindel, who was just outside talking with his subordinates, welcomed them, I peaked my head outside and saw that leading them was the son of Lord Galdor.

The younger ellon dismounted from his steed and bowed to Glorfindel in respect. His face was grim and he spoke with a hard expression.

"Mae govannen, hír nin."

"Mae govannen." Glorfindel greeted back.

"Though I wish I had greeted you with good tidings, I am afraid it is not the case. A letter from Imladris carried by a messenger dove addressing Lord Círdan arrived before noon bearing news about the disappearance of the elven queen of Greenwood the Great, Queen Alcariel and his highness Prince Legolas. Found in the woods where she usually takes a walk were traces of the filth of Morgoth, the vile orcs and wargs. The Elven King Thranduil was in great grief as it was given that they were abducted by the enemy. Marking this day, her majesty and his highness have been missing for four days and nights already. Lord Elrond and Lady Celebrian wished for your return in Imladris as soon as possible and lead the second troop that will consist of forces of Imladris and the Galadhrim. They will arrive days away from now at the gates of Rivendel's forest, sent by King Amroth to assist in search for his missing kin."

I didn't understand even a single thing from the long dialogue but I can see the grim faces of the elves. Some of the elleth gasped in horror, sealing away my suspicions that the news was that bad

"Lord Círdan prepared supplies that Milord Glorfindel would need on your journey back to Imladris. He would have wanted to see you once again before you depart, my lord. But things are dire and he said that you can gather reinforcement with our force that is in this city."

I can see Glorfindel's blank face and yet as soon as he turned his head towards me and our eyes met, I clearly knew that amidst the emotions the news has brought, he is conflicted. His jaw tightened and clenched, that was the only sign of emotion that you can read in his face.

He then turned again to the ellon. "I hear and thank you for bringing this to my attention. Take some rest and give a word to Lord Círdan that I will not bring any forces from the people of Teleri, the evil is everywhere and I ask only for his grace to send sentries that will patrol the settlements nearby. I fear that these attacks do not end here, it is better to be safe as prevention is better than cure. We will travel light and will bring only what is necessary."

"Thank you, my lord. We have brought enough miruvor for your travel as well. May the Valar be with you on this journey."

Glorfindel nodded and turned towards Bronwëg, his second in command. "Gather everyone and be prepared to depart before dawn."

"By your order, milord." The dark haired ellon moves swiftly after giving his lordship a bow. The son of Lord Galdor was assisted by other elves and took him to where he could find his mother, Lady Heledh. Some elves started talking about what happened with grief on their faces.

I saw Glorfindel deeply sighed and turned his head back to me yet he did not move from where he was standing. I can see sadness and maybe a bit of exhaustion in his face. Was it that bad? Now I feel kinda nervous too. It was then he took a step and strides back inside the tent. I wanted to ask if there is something wrong but that would be like asking for the obvious.

"There is so much more that I wanted to do with you." He suddenly said, he lifted his hand and caressed my cheek.

"You're leaving." It was not a question, but those words that I uttered felt like bricks upon my back. They felt so heavy. He then told me the bad news that was brought to him and realised the urgency of it.

If these orcs can bring so much destruction, how bad and scary is it more if you were caught by them. The worst part of this is that there is a child involved. When Glorfindel said that you could compare him to a five year old child, my heart sunked.

"Oh, my gosh… and you will go there?"

"I am the general of the army of Imladris. It is my duty to aid my kin in these times of darkness. Aid Arda against the darkness of Sauron and his legion."

I shook my head. "That is not what I mean, I'm not asking about your duty, I'm worried about you."

He said duty. How hard is it for this guy to shoulder these responsibilities? I suddenly had the urge to hug him, and I did. I don't know if I did that for him or to calm myself. As it slowly sank into me that he is leaving, I felt a surprising sting in my heart.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

For the first time, Glorfindel felt conflicted on fulfilling his duty. He had not even once thought that these duties were such a burden to him, not until now that he will have to leave the woman he loves. Those days that they were together were so short and though he knew he could still see her anyway, how long would it be? His fëa, his very soul felt so miserable. When he felt her embrace, Glorfindel held her just as fast and he smiled that rather than the situation they will have to face, her worry was majorly for him.

But he has no choice but to leave.

"Is there anything that I can do or help?!" Erika suddenly pushed him away and asked with slight fierceness. Of course she have another thing on her mind.

"Not this time, meleth. I already told the envoy that my company and I will travel light and fast. Ten days is the limit of how fast we have to reach Rivendel without killing our steeds. It will be hard for you to come with me as you are not used to harsh travel like I do. You will have to stay here and I will leave you at the care of Feredir and his family. They will bring you back to the Grey Havens." Glorfindel said, masking his pained voice which was harder when he saw her bite her trembling lower lip.

"What if something happens to you and you won't come back?"

"At least I can say that I will definitely try my best to avoid harm, but if that is my fate—"

"No, damn it, don't say it. It's bad luck!" Glorfindel's fëa was torturing him when he saw her eyelashes damp with tears. She sighed and departed from his hold, something he does not want to do. "I… thankfully I washed out clothes yesterday, you have clean ones to pack… uh, take your time. I will go to Faeron." He wanted to say more but then she left the tent in haste. She must have been upset and worried but he has no other choice now. One of her little owls jumped down from its perch and landed on his right shoulder while the other three flew away, maybe to follow wherever she will go.

He gently scratched its head. "Are you not going to follow her as well?" The owl hooted and just ruffled its feathers. The ellon smiled and started to prepare his things. His heart felt a slight pain when he saw his neatly folded clothes at the top of a table, Erika must be doing it earlier. He remembered his embarrassment when he found out that she washed even his breeches but she was just nonchalant about it.

He was about to finish preparing when Feredir arrived at his tent with a grim face. He must have heard about what happened from Bronwëg. The Teleri must have been upset as Queen Alcariel is of their kin, descending from the royal house of Doriath and is Celeborn's niece from his brother Galathil. The two of them talked about the possible movements of the orcs in the following seasons. They also formed a plan about reinforcing patrols in surrounding the Havens and the small cities and settlements around. Hours have passed and soon Bronwëg has informed him that everything is ready; all they need to do is wait and depart as the dawn arrives.

"Rest this evening, my friend, for you and your company will have a long and restless journey. May you find and save the queen and the little prince not only for the sake of our friend, Thranduil, but for the sake of Greenwood. I shall greet you before you depart."

"Thank you, Feredir. I… would just like to leave Erika in your care. And I will return as soon as everything is settled."

"You do not need to ask, my friend. Only, I am still baffled as to why you are still not confessing to her."

"I never thought it was that hard to admit." Glorfindel drily chuckled.

"The great lord who threw down a balrog… but time is running, son of Ñoldor. Do not waste it." Feredir tapped him on the shoulder before departing.

He could not help but to sigh, he felt exhausted. They thought the peace would at least last after defeating Sauron but a hundred years later, his thralls started to wreak havoc all over Arda. Now they even have the gall to enter the boundaries of Greenwood, not fearing the fierce warriors of the woods.

It is now getting late at night and Erika is still not coming back, Glorfindel is certain that only songs of lamenting will be sung this night as all the eldar must have heard about the tidings of the queen of Greenwood and her elfling.

The warrior decided to leave the tent and search for her. There is a tree near the healing wards where they frequently gather around a fire, singing songs and playing music but as he expected, not a single soul was there and there is no Erika to be found. He went to the kitchen tents, but there was no sign of her there and even the old people who were fond of her and were used to her constant presence there had told him that they have not seen her since dinner time. At this time, he tried his best to retain his calm. She is sometimes everywhere, helping people whenever she can. But even then he did not find even her shadow.

Where could she be? At this time, Glorfindel found Faeron talking to an ellon. The blond immediately asked him if he saw her but the younger male was only surprised and shook his head.

"I have not seen her since this afternoon, milord. To be honest, I thought she would be with you." Faeron said with slight worry.

Glorfindel nodded. "Alright, I will just continue looking for her. But if your paths cross, kindly tell the lady to see me."

"Of course, my lord."

Glorfindel hid his concern, thinking she was just around yet his heart was already pounding in dread while his eyes still scoured his surroundings hoping to see a glimpse of her. He went back to his tent hoping to see that she is back, however, not even a sign of her was seen.

Where is she? Just when he was about to don his armour and storm out of the tent to search for her again, Glorfindel was surprised to hear the flap of the tent opening and her entering.

"Oh, hi… uh, are you done with your preparations?" Glorfindel sighs all the worry that was building up on his chest at the sight of her "Eh, Glorfindel? Are you okay?"

"Where were you? I was looking around for you and people were saying they did not see you at all." Glorfindel took a step toward her.

"Oh…" she said and bit her lower lip. He noticed she had a habit of doing that whenever she is shy about something. "Uh, I'm sorry. I visited the graves and I kinda forgot the time."

"You went out to the graves? Ai, Gilthoniel, at night time?"

"Eh, don't worry nothing was amiss and there were people patrolling nearby so I knew I was safe. I just… wanted to have some time alone. I'm sorry if I worried you."

Glorfindel sighed but this time, in relief. He has been doing that a lot of times today, eh. "Have I angered you, meleth?"

"Huh? No. Why would you think of that?" Then she must have understood what his question meant and shook her head. "I'm not angry, Glorfindel, I was just… sad. I…" she stopped herself just as she was about to say something.

"What is it?"

"It's… nothing."

Glorfindel reached his hand and pulled her body closer, something he had never thought twice of doing anymore. He just thought that her small form fitted just perfectly in his hold. "Tell me, Erika." He then reached for her chin and made her look up to him. When their eyes met, he saw her brown ones shake. "Tell me all that you wanted to say. Did I not say to you to never hesitate to speak your mind?"

"It would only burden you."

"I want it. I still want it. Tell me all that you have been thinking."

"There is no sense of me asking for you to stay. That's what I thought but that would be so shameless of me. Besides, you are leaving to help your people. I don't want to burden you with my nonsense."

Glorfindel smiled and held her tighter and cupped her cheek. "You did not burden me, nin meleth, you even made me feel happy."

"You know you have to stop doing this."

"Stop what?" He asked in confusion.

"This. You have to stop giving me the wrong idea. Stop being so sweet to me, you will only confuse me even more."

"What are you confused about, meleth?" The young woman frowned and placed her hands on his body to push him away but Glorfindel held her closer.

"Let go."

"Tell me, Erika. Have I been confusing you with my actions? Have I been treating you wrong?"

"Yes!" She bursted and Glorfindel paused to watch emotions swim at her countenance. "Yes you confuse me so much that it drives me crazy. Stop being so sweet to me, it makes me think that you like me. It's giving me false hopes, it makes me think of selfish things and I don't even know what it means and…"

Glorfindel's heart felt like it skipped a beat. "It means that I adore you to madness, melmenya." He said with a tender smile on his lips, cutting off her rant. Her confused face looked so adorable at that moment and the ellon did not stop himself anymore from acting upon his emotions. With one hand holding her body closer and one hand gently cradling the back of her neck, Glorfindel kissed her on the lips.

There were sparks all over his body upon the contact of their lips. He felt her froze for a while from surprise but it did not take long to feel her ease and even kissed him back.

His heart pounded on his chest so loud that he thought it would jump out, but then he realised it was not just his heart that was so erratic, but he could feel Erika's heart upon his skin as well.

His lips melted upon her warm and soft ones and he almost lost his mind. When her arms circled around his neck, Glorfindel took that as a signal and kissed her even deeper. Delving each fold of their lips together and tasting such beautiful sweetness that he has never tasted before. At that moment her knees gave away and he felt her sinking from his hold, it was an easy problem to solve though, Glorfindel only needed to lift her up.

"Hmph…" she whimpered in surprise when her position suddenly elevated and Glorfindel chuckled between their entwined lips. Still he did not let go and kissed her deeper than ever and their tongues danced in the passion of their first kiss. They only stopped when Erika remembered that she still needed to breathe but even so Glorfindel's lips hovered at the top of hers giving her small pecks and butterfly kisses between her breathlessness.

It felt like even time did not exist between them.

"Melinyel, Erika, nin melmenya… I have been loving you ever since our eyes met at the woods of Harlindon. If my actions confuses you then I apologise for not clearly saying how I felt for you."

At his confession, Erika's eyes swam in tears and they slowly trickled down to her cheeks, only to be caught and wiped away by his graceful fingertips.

"I don't even know what you see in me, I'm not even as pretty as your kin." Erika said with a chuckle in her words.

"My love, nin meleth, do you want me to show you how much I found you beautiful. I can start now." Glorfindel jested.

"Is that the meaning of that?"

"What is?"

"The words that you have been using to call me."

"Ah… nin meleth, yes it means my love in Sindarin, my Erika." Again he peppered her lips with light kisses. Erika only deepened it again, this time she was responding with passion equal to his, igniting another fire between them.

"I love you. It's the reason why I feel so bad about you leaving. I love you without even realising it." Glorfindel smiles at her words, he finally hears the words his fëa has been seeking. He felt like he was soaring, it felt like freedom from the shackles of thousands of years worth of sadness. "We've been sleeping together and only now we confessed to each other how we both felt, aiyyaa, my ancestors would be so horrified."

"My love, I just want to clarify to you that we did not sleep in that way that you are thinking and I was being—"

Erik laughed "I'm kidding, I'm kidding. And don't worry, you are the only male I've ever slept with my whole life."

"Thank you, meleth." Glorfindel chuckled and kissed the tip of her nose. Right now he is in such bliss, a bliss that he's afraid will end as soon as the sun rises. Maybe because of the impulse and passion they are both sharing at that moment, Glorfindel said what his heart has been wanting to say this whole time. "I do not want to go as well, Erika. Or at least leave without you with me. But the journey will be harsh and dangerous. And I would never want you to experience any of that. Nor to put you in a situation that will give you any discomfort."

Erika embraced him again. "I will not complain."

"I know. That's what I'm afraid of."

"I will endure it. As long as we are together, I will endure everything."

Glorfindel smiled and shook his head. "I even love how stubborn you are." He then placed her down on the ground again. "Ready your satchel, my beloved."

Erika laughed. "Yes sir, but let me change into riding clothes so I don't have to change later."

To Glorfindel's disbelief, Erika unpinned her dress right in front of him. "Melmenya!"

"What! We're lovers! This is normal from where I came from! And I can boast about my body, sir. I may not be a model or an elleth but things are still covered by the jiggle physics."

Glorfindel shook his head and with a flushed face he looked away and decided to just help her pack her travelling satchel. Well, she does have a point that her body is something to boast about, he held her so many times so he knew how perfect it is. Anyway, he will just focus on her things.

After preparing all their things, both of them decides to lay down on the bed and sleep so that they would have energy, but they just ended up talking to each other about the journey, what kind of person is the queen of Greenwood the Great, what is the possible route of their journey, and that Erika will only stay at Glorfindel's manor in Imladris in his designated chambers at the Lord's castle. Aside from talking about their plans and exchanging small jokes, the two of them are just rotting on the bed kissing like two teenagers without a care in the world, finally letting go of their thoughts and just going along with their emotions. And Glorfindel felt like he was drowning in such bliss that even the light of the Two Trees will pale in comparison.

And with the bliss they are sharing, they both fell asleep holding each other and much closer than ever.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Glorfindel was woken up by a slight tap on his cheeks and two blinks after, his eyes focused at the sight of his beloved.

"Good morning… wakey wakey, sleepy head, we have a flight to catch." His eyes only drank the sight of her smiling form, her thick hair falling like a messy waterfall framing her lovely face. He brought his hand up and pulled her to him, kissing her straight on the lips. And if you asked him, that if after all the kissing they have done the previous night, he is not tired of it, he would say that would never happen. Thankfully she indulged him by responding to him with a slight giggle.

"Bruh, elves don't get morning breaths, that is so unfair." She murmured as they pulled their lips away from each other.

"You are so unromantic, meleth." He said that made her laugh again.

"Well, that's one thing to get you up from the bed, señor. Come on, you still have to wear your fancy armour. You look really handsome there, by the way."

"I am glad you found me handsome enough to suit your taste, my lady."

"Whoever will say you are not handsome, Imma fucking german suplex their ass."

"Have I ever told you that I found you cursing to be so adorable? Here you are, a tiny woman who swears worse than the dwarrows of Erebor."

"Well, hanon le, hír nin."

Glorfindel furrowed his eyebrows. "Who taught you that?"

"Err, Faeron. Did I make a mistake? Does it sound weird?"

"Your… accent made it sound… sensual? It is making me feel strange and conflicted."

"It's that bad, huh…" Erika burst out laughing at the sight of Glorfindel's reaction. "Get up, grandpa, we have to go!" She says as she pushes herself up from the bed. Glorfindel followed closely and started to prepare himself for their departure. As if now, nobody knew that he changed his mind and will take Erika with him to Imladris. The ellon felt grateful to her, he knew it would be hard for her to leave since she had made a lot of good friends here yet she chose to face days of discomfort and inconvenience with him, not to mention an imminent danger. Glorfindel knew it was not a wise thing to do, but for the first time in his life, he never had to choose between things if that is a wise thing to do or if it is just an utter stupidity. He is just listening to what his heart is asking and this time, the two of them are prepared to face danger if it means not separating from each other. Everyday, she surprises him about how brave she can be.

Glorfindel buried his face in the valley of her neck, she was in the middle of closing her second satchel at that time, trying to minimise the things she had to bring. Under normal circumstances, Glorfindel would not have her do that, she can have a whole carriage of the things she wanted to bring but it warms his heart to see how willing she is to sacrifice her needs just so it will not burden them on their journey.

"Thank you, Erika."

"Huh? For what?"

"For choosing me."

Glorfindel felt her dainty hand pat his head. "I should be the one saying that."

The ellon moved away and gave her a kiss on the forehead. "Let us go, meleth." He took the two satchel from the table and the two of them headed out. He saw Erika look back behind their tent and in her eyes swims a little bit of sadness and nostalgia. Somehow he could understand how she feels even without the bonding of their fëa since this place, this city, holds a big part in their story.

She was smiling when she turned back to him and together they headed out at the city gates where everyone was waiting.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Eleven beautiful horses were waiting at the city gates, all of them were briddled but unsaddled. I remember the elves prefer to ride their steed bareback, and maybe since no one is expecting that I will join in the party, they did not saddle Rhosfein like the last time we went to the Little Lhun.

But even so, there is no going back. We were both impulsive, we know that but it's worth it. Wew! Who would have thought I'm gonna have these kinds of thoughts towards someone? All my life I've never tried to depend on anyone, be it how I live or what to choose. My parents have always been teaching us how to stand on our own two feet, and yet here I am, about to do the craziest thing I've ever done in my whole life, deciding something because of one person.

But as I gather my thoughts yesterday in front of the graveyard, I realised that all this time I've been so dependent on Glorfindel not because I don't know how to carry myself alone in this strange place, but because he was so kind and I have never seen this type of kindness to someone. His light was addicting.

I just found myself wondering if I can even survive without that light. Without him, his affection and even his hold. For the first time, I allowed someone to break down the stupid walls I've put up thinking it will shield me away from the pain the world can bring me.

And to think he is in the same dilemma as me. I can never thank God enough for allowing me to meet a person like him.

With all that thinking, how can I allow myself to be away from him? And coming from Glorfindel's own words, he doesn't know what to do. For the first time in his life he was conflicted to do his duties. In the end we solved that problem by swearing we will stay together no matter how hard this so-called journey is.

The dawn is still not here and yet I can see people standing near the gates. Once we arrived in front of them, I could see the scowling face of Lady Heledh.

"This is not what I am thinking, right?" The healer said and Lord Feredir chuckled.

Glorfindel and look at each other.

"It brings me joy to find that the two of you have finally decided to talk." Lord Feredir said with a smile, Faeron his son, was standing behind him with a smirk.

"Wait… Lord Feredir you know… about…"

"Everybody knows, my dear. He was not even trying to hide his affection for you."

"Huh?"

"I applaud you, my lord, for finally getting through this oblivious woman." Faeron said with a shit eating grin. I feel like hiding underneath a rock, this is so embarrassing.

"Alright, I am ecstatic for the two of you but I still am not happy with this idea. However, who am I to stop what you two want." Lady Heledh said, her beautiful face is still marked with worry. The healer then came towards me and encased me in her dainty arms. "You are like a child to me, Erika. And your happiness is what I want, just promise me that you will come back and visit the Havens."

"Thank you, Lady Heledh." It was the only thing I could say as emotions are starting to overwhelm me. I will miss them, they have been so kind to me since they found me. For me, they are like a family. "Please cook for me again when I come back."

"Anything you want, my child." She then kissed me on the forehead before looking up and glared at Glorfindel. "My lord, I will entrust you to her."

"Of course, my lady."

"Take care of her or you will suffer my wrath."

"Yes, my lady. Do not worry."

Lord Feredir chuckled at Glorfindel's compliance. Then the two ellyn clasped their hands in their chest. "May the Valar bless all of you in this journey, mellon nin. And may the tides of fate stirs you towards the kind queen and her elfling."

"Hanon le, Feredir. I will leave everything in your hand."

While the two generals were exchanging their goodbyes, I hugged Faeron. I was trying to stop my tears, but I think that was an impossible thing. "When I come back, I wish you and Anauriel are finally together. I haven't taught you enough songs to serenade her but I wish you nothing but the best."

"As I do, Erika. I thank you for our friendship. When things are settled, I will visit Imladris so be sure to welcome me." The ever sweet guy gently pushed me away to wipe the tears that were streaming down my eyes.

"I miss you already."

And Faeron smiles. "Do not weep now, my dear friend. I would prefer to see you depart with a smile. I will miss you as well." He hugged me again and kissed the top of my head.

"Take care of yourself, dear Erika and know that you will always be welcome in my household." Lord Feredir said with a smile, he reached his hand out and ruffled my hair. "May the Valar watch over your journey."

I was so used to seeing them everyday that I didn't realise how hard it is to say goodbye. But hey, every goodbye is a good start right?

"We shall depart now." Glorfindel said, taking my hand and guiding me towards Rhosfein. Bronwëg took my other satchel and placed it above his own horse. When I looked at the dark haired ellon, he gave me a kind and warm smile. Nestaron has the same expression when I saw him just yards away, though he is keeping his silence, I knew he had a lot to say and a lot to ask.

Eru, if you are listening. I hope everything will be alright. I hope the missing queen and her child will remain safe. I hope we arrive at Imladris without any trouble. And may you keep my friends here in Mamgobel and in Havens safe against this enemy that we are facing. May you give me strength.

We hopped into the horses and I was sitting in front of Glorfindel. At his call, we finally took off. Waving behind us were our friends, flying above were Hedwig, Little Luna, Artemis and Apollo. And howling nearby were the sharp, distinct and hollow wolves, possibly following again where I will be going.

I looked toward me and I saw a vast, silent and cold land, there is no going back anymore.

Glorfindel might be sensing my thoughts as he wrapped one of his hands to mine. I looked back to him and I found him gently smiling.

I smiled back at him. "Hey…"

"Hm?"

"I love you."

His smile became wider and his face glowed more ethereal than ever. "Amin mela lle, nin Erika." Though I did not understand the language, the meaning of it is much clearer than ever.

That was enough.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Translation:

Melinyel - (Quenya) I love you, an exchange between lovers.

Miruvor - elf gatorade

Author's Notes 2.0:

Patintero - Filipino traditional game

Laurefindil - (Quenya) Glorfindel's given birth name in its original form. Glorfindel is the Sindarin version but he was mostly known for it.

King Amroth - the last king of Lothlorien, the ruler before Galadriel.

Galathil - is the father of Nimloth, Díor's (son of Beren and Lúthien) wife. I just made up Alcariel being his daughter as Thranduil's wife is basically nameless, but might have also come from Doriath. It will also at least justify the theory that Legolas doesn't have golden blond hair (like in the movies) but silver hair as both his parents are of Sindar descent. Why does that matter, because golden blond hair is the trademark of the Vanyar.