Disclaimers: I don't own any characters or settings from Lord of the Rings.

Act VII

Chapter 53: Secrets of the Elvenking

At the gates of the Halls of the Elvenking, Legolas, Arien, and Gimli were greeted by a small group of Elven guards, led by Tauriel. Her eyes sparkled with relief and joy upon seeing the prince return safely, yet there was a flicker of curiosity as she noted his unique choice of companions. She approached them with graceful strides, her red hair flowing like a fiery waterfall down her back.

"Welcome back, Prince Legolas," Tauriel said warmly, her eyes briefly flicking to Gimli and Arien before returning to Legolas. "Your journey was long and arduous, I presume."

Legolas inclined his head in acknowledgment. "Indeed, Tauriel. It is good to be home." He glanced back at Gimli and Arien, who were taking in the grandeur of Mirkwood with wide-eyed amazement. "These are my trusted companions. Let us proceed to the Throne Halls. There is much to discuss."

Tauriel nodded, turning to lead the way. The corridors of the Elvenking's Halls were a marvel to behold, with intricate carvings of woodland scenes adorning the walls and soft, ethereal light filtering through the arched windows. The air was filled with the faint scent of pine and earth, a reminder of the ancient forest that surrounded them.

As they walked, Tauriel couldn't resist her curiosity. She glanced over her shoulder at Legolas and, in a low whisper of Sindarin, asked, "How did you come to travel with such... unusual companions?"

Legolas met her gaze and then glanced back at Arien and Gimli. "Do not worry, Tauriel. They do not understand Sindarin ." He paused, a faint smile playing on his lips. "The dwarf is Gimli, son of Glóin, a dear friend from the Fellowship. And Arien... well, she is a unique problem, but one you have met before."

Tauriel's eyebrows raised in surprise, but she held her questions, focusing instead on the path ahead. "A dwarf and an elf who does not know Elvish," she mused. "Your father will be intrigued."

Legolas' expression turned serious. "Speaking of my father, how is he?"

Tauriel sighed, her eyes clouding with concern. "He has been different since the attack. The orcs breached our defenses, and he has been relentless in his efforts to cleanse Mirkwood of all dark creatures."

Legolas nodded, understanding the weight of her words. "And what of the alliance with Lothlórien?"

"They have joined forces," Tauriel explained, her voice dropping even lower. "Thranduil and Celeborn led an assault on Dol Guldur, with Galadriel using her power to destroy the fortress. Our realms are now interconnected, working together to ensure the safety and purity of our lands."

As they continued through the halls, Tauriel revealed that Thranduil had spent long hours in private discussions with Celeborn and Galadriel, away from the ears of their guards. "I do not know what was promised or discussed," she admitted. "But there is more to this alliance than simply coexistence."

Legolas' mind raced. He had suspected as much even before leaving Mirkwood. The escape of Gollum and the breach by the orcs had unsettled his father deeply. Thranduil's desire to cleanse Mirkwood and restore its former glory had a dual purpose: to rid the land of darkness and to uncover the secrets held by the orcs who had infiltrated their realm.

By the time they reached the Throne Halls, a sense of urgency had settled over Legolas. The grand doors swung open, revealing Thranduil seated on his ornate throne. The Elvenking rose gracefully, his gaze locking onto his son with a mixture of relief and sternness.

"Welcome home, Legolas," Thranduil said, his voice resonating through the hall. "And welcome to your companions. I trust your journey was not in vain."

Legolas stepped forward, bowing slightly. "Thank you, Father. It is good to be back. We have much to discuss."

Thranduil's gaze shifted to Gimli and Arien, lingering a moment longer on the latter. "Indeed. But first, let us ensure your companions are comfortable. Then we shall talk."

Thranduil turned his attention first to Gimli, taking in the sight of the dwarf with a measured, curious gaze. Though he had never met Gimli before, the fact that the dwarf had arrived in the company of his son spoke volumes. The Elvenking had come to accept Legolas' diverse friendships, even if they were with beings as unlikely as dwarves. He no longer felt troubled by these connections.

Gimli stepped forward and introduced himself, his voice resonating with pride. "Gimli, son of Glóin, at your service."

Thranduil's eyes softened slightly, a hint of a smile touching his lips. "The son of Glóin," he acknowledged. "I have recently had the pleasure of working with your father. Together, we fight against the remnants of Sauron's forces. He spoke proudly of your role in the Fellowship. Welcome to my halls, Gimli."

Gimli, ever blunt, replied, "I appreciate the welcome, King Thranduil. And I assure you, I do not intend to end up in your prisons as my father once did."

A brief silence fell over the hall at Gimli's candid remark, but Thranduil seemed unperturbed. He nodded, understanding the truth in the dwarf's words. There was a unique character in Gimli that Thranduil could respect.

Next, Thranduil turned to Arien, his gaze lingering on her with a discerning intensity. "It is good to have you back, Arien," he said warmly. "I hope you can spare some time to work on a few of my maps. You have become a fine lady, even clad as a warrior. The beauty and strength of your lineage are evident."

Arien smiled, her demeanor relaxed as it had been when she was known as Elenion. "It is a pleasure to see you again, King Thranduil. Of course, I will find the time to update your maps. And perhaps we can share that glass of wine and catch up on many things."

Thranduil nodded approvingly, then gestured for the guards to lead Gimli and Arien to the guest chambers near the royal quarters. These were not ordinary guests but important figures and close friends of his son, with one among them holding even greater significance.

As Gimli and Arien followed the guards, they began to talk. Gimli, ever the curious one, asked, "How did Thranduil know you were Elenion?"

Arien chuckled, starting to explain her history with the Elvenking as they left the throne hall. Meanwhile, Thranduil and Legolas remained behind, the doors closing softly behind them. Legolas turned to his father, confusion etched on his face.

"I did not know you were aware that Elenion was actually Arien," Legolas began, his voice laced with curiosity. "How did you come to know this?"

Thranduil met his son's gaze, his expression serene. "I have known for quite some time, Legolas. I met her centuries ago in Lothlórien. She may not remember, but I do. She has always intrigued me, even more so now."

Legolas frowned slightly. "Why did you not tell me?"

"It was not my story to tell," Thranduil replied calmly. "I have little interest in the names she chooses to go by. If you wish to learn more about her, you must do so in your own time and through your own efforts."

Legolas nodded slowly, absorbing his father's words. Although he remained unsettled by Thranduil's interest in Arien, he decided to set the matter aside for now. There were more pressing concerns to address.

Turning the conversation, Legolas began to ask about the remaining forces and Thranduil's recent alliances. He mentioned Tauriel's information about the connections with Lothlórien and the dwarves, noting his father's apparent dedication to cleansing the forest. Pausing, he looked directly at Thranduil and asked if he was specifically targeting Gurzog and his men.

Thranduil paused, then stood up from his throne and walked to stand beside Legolas. His face was serious as he spoke, "Yes, Gurzog and his chief, Kruzrak, have long targeted our Halls. They harbor a grudge, and Gurzog, in particular, has been after you, my son."

Legolas felt a chill. "Why did you not tell me sooner?" he asked, his voice tense.

Thranduil's gaze was steady. "I discovered Gurzog's vendetta not long ago, but it was clear he had been pursuing you since the hunt for Gollum. I see now that you already suspected this."

Legolas nodded, revealing his deepest fear, "I always thought Gurzog knew something about Mother. That perhaps... his line was at fault."

Thranduil's expression hardened. "It is a possibility," he admitted. "But you must never think it was your fault, Legolas. Your mother's death was not caused by anything you did. It was the rising darkness, the evil that sought to destroy all that was good in our realm."

The weight of his father's words hung heavily in the air. Legolas felt a mix of sorrow and relief. Thranduil had never spoken so openly about his mother's death or about his own fears.

They continued their discussion, delving into the strategies for dealing with Gurzog and his men. Thranduil revealed that part of the collaboration with Lothlórien and the dwarves was aimed at gathering strength and information. The recent attacks on Mirkwood were a clear sign that Gurzog's forces were growing bolder, and it was imperative to stop them before they could cause further harm.

As they spoke, the grand hall around them seemed to fade into the background. The flickering torches cast long shadows, and the rich tapestries depicting the history of the Woodland Realm seemed to listen in on their conversation. The atmosphere was heavy with the scent of pine and earth, a reminder of the ancient forest that surrounded them.

Legolas felt a newfound respect for his father. Thranduil's usual regal detachment had given way to a palpable sense of urgency and care. It was clear that the Elvenking was deeply concerned not just for his realm, but for his son.

Their conversation lasted well into the night, with Thranduil sharing more about his plans and the challenges they faced. The Elvenking spoke of alliances forged and battles fought, painting a vivid picture of the realm's current state. Legolas listened intently, his resolve strengthening with each word. As the night deepened, their discussion turned to Lothlórien and the unusual alliance Thranduil had formed with them.

"Father," Legolas began, his voice tinged with curiosity, "you have never been fond of Lothlórien, especially after the events of the First Alliance. What has changed your mind?"

Thranduil smiled, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "You are perceptive, my son. There is indeed something I seek from this alliance. It is not merely a political maneuver."

Legolas frowned, trying to decipher his father's cryptic words. "What could Lothlórien offer that would benefit us so greatly?"

Thranduil hesitated, clearly weighing his words. He knew how fiercely independent Legolas was and how much he disliked interference in his personal life. But this was too important to withhold. "The union of our realms requires a bond stronger than mere politics. An agreement has been made between the lords – a marriage alliance."

Legolas felt a sudden chill. "A marriage alliance?" he echoed, disbelief evident in his tone. "With whom?"

Thranduil's gaze was steady as he answered, "With the youngest daughter of Elrond."

The shock of the revelation rendered Legolas speechless for a moment. When he found his voice, it was edged with incredulity and frustration. "You cannot be serious, Father. You know my thoughts on marriage. I have no interest in such things. And to whom? A girl I have never met, one rumored to be lost to her people?"

Thranduil's expression softened, but he remained firm. "This is not a decision made lightly, Legolas. The daughter of Elrond is not lost. This union will bring peace and prosperity to our realms."

The tension in the air was palpable. Legolas's heart pounded with a mix of anger and confusion. "I will not be forced into a marriage for the sake of politics," he declared, his voice rising. "Especially not with someone I do not know."

Thranduil's eyes darkened, but his tone remained gentle. "I am not forcing you, my son. I am asking you to consider it. This alliance is for the betterment of our people, and for you. It will bring stability and strength to our realms."

Legolas shook his head, unable to accept what he was hearing. "I cannot believe you would do this, Father. You know how I feel about such matters."

Without waiting for a response, Legolas turned and stormed out of the hall, his mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. Thranduil watched him go, a deep sadness in his eyes. He returned to his throne and sat down heavily, whispering to himself, "What I do, I do for you, my son. One day, you will understand."

Unbeknownst to Legolas, Thranduil's actions were driven by more than mere political strategy. He knew that Arien, the mysterious Elven warrior who had become a close companion to his son, was in fact the youngest daughter of Elrond. Thranduil hoped that revealing this truth would bring his son and Arien closer together, strengthening both their bond and the alliance between their realms.

The days that followed were filled with tension and uncertainty. Legolas avoided his father, his mind consumed with thoughts of the proposed marriage. Arien and Gimli sensed the change in him, but he said nothing of the conversation he had with Thranduil. As they prepared for the battles and challenges ahead, the shadow of Thranduil's revelation loomed large over them, promising a future fraught with both danger and drama.

((Upcoming Chapter Fifty - Four))

Thank you for taking the time to read this! Feel free to Review - Follow - Favorite!