
Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/
works/13663935.
  Rating:
      Explicit
  Archive Warning:
      Underage
  Category:
      F/M, M/M
  Fandom:
      The_Hobbit_-_J._R._R._Tolkien
  Relationship:
      Tauriel_(Hobbit_Movies)/Thranduil_(Tolkien), Legolas_Greenleaf/Tauriel,
      Galion/Thranduil_(Tolkien)
  Character:
      Thranduil_(Tolkien), Legolas_Greenleaf, Galion_(Tolkien), Tauriel_(Hobbit
      Movies), Original_Characters
  Collections:
      Main_Library
  Stats:
      Published: 2018-02-13 Updated: 2018-03-28 Chapters: 14/? Words: 46085
****** The Moth & The Flame ******
by AvaloyuruGeovaughni
Summary
     In the aftermath of the Battle of the Five Armies, Thranduil finds
     the world within his Halls empty. He struggles to come to terms with
     the absence of his only child and the loss of the one he raised as if
     she were his own daughter. He begins to realize that what he feels
     for Tauriel is more than a fatherly affection. Having publicly
     banished her, could he or should he try to get her back? What of
     Legolas, now departed for the north? Would he return? What of the
     feelings his son still harbors in his own heart for the young
     beautiful former Captain of the Guard? If he acts on his feelings,
     will the rift between them grow wider? Thranduil decides to follow
     his heart.
Notes
     Disclaimer: I do not own Tolkien’s world, Middle-Earth, or any of its
     associated characters or geographical locations. I receive no form of
     compensation monetarily or otherwise from this work of fan-fiction.
See the end of the work for more notes
***** A Royal Escort *****
Chapter Summary
     After being banished from her home by the King, the only father she
     had ever known and then abandoned by Legolas, Tauriel sought
     seclusion among the kindred Wood elves of Lórinand. Unfortunately,
     her solitude was short lived as the King himself arrives to escort
     her back to Mirkwood.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
The rustic two-story building serving as both an Inn and Dining Hall sat
comfortably nestled in a grove of tall evergreens, sheltered beneath the outer
edges of the leafy canopy of the Vellanräé and Malinornë trees. The evening had
grown late and most of Lórinand had retreated to their tree top homes or faded
back into the surrounding Vales.
Tauriel sat quietly, just staring at the flames in the hearth that dominated
the far wall of the main dining area. Fleeing Mirkwood, she had hoped to find
solitude amongst the Wood elves, yet the ache in her heart had only grown
deeper. Truly alone with nothing but her memories of the only home she had ever
known and the love she found only to lose. She knew there was no going back,
even without having been banished, her betrayal of Legolas had caused a rift
between him and his father, a pain she knew he would never forgive.
Frowning as someone stepped close yet just outside her vision, she became aware
that the soft hum of conversation had faded suddenly into silence.
“Please don’t make a scene Tauriel.” The young Woodland guard said softly,
making no move to come closer to her.
“Where is he?” She demanded more than asked as she continued to stare into the
hearth. She knew without looking it was Eluandúnië. He was the youngest of the
kings’ personal guard and a Silvan elf like herself.
“The king is tending to other business.” He told her quietly as he finally
stepped closer, standing between her and the hearth. “He will join us in
morning, for now you will come with us.” He added, his voice remained quiet yet
his tone was firm.
“I am going nowhere with you.” She stated, nearly jumping to her feet as she
turned toward the main entrance. “Damn it!” She hissed beneath her breath as
she turned away from Rínnänéth, only to find herself staring at the stoic face
of Macilvoronhûr, both of which were members of the kings’ personal guard.
Glancing around the large main room, her heart sank as she noted only a few
Wood elves cleaning the tables and the worried Sambetur (Keeper of the Hall)
were all that remained.
“I need to gather my things.” She stated as she turned back to face him
angrily, ignoring the sadness and the warning in his soft green eyes.
“Glaurhalbër has already taken them back to the Vale, now come.” He told her,
waving his hand in front of him indicating that she lead the way toward the
back entrance.
“Aldalómë?” She asked, turning away from him to walk slowly toward the
entrance.
“He awaits us at the Vale.” He replied, moving close behind her.
~*~
“She must be very important to you Eshë.”(Friend-Trusted Ally) Gilaiwë said
quietly, reaching up to tuck a few stray strands of his hair behind his ear and
caress his cheek.
“I have been her protector since she was but an elfling.” Thranduil sighed as
he leaned down, placing a soft kiss on her forehead. “She is young and
irrational, I wish only to return her to her home.” He added, burying his face
in the warmth of her neck.
“It is easy to do when you love someone.” She mused as she drew her nails up
across the naked flesh of his back, smiling as she felt him shiver.
“Love?!” He nearly blurted as he pulled back from her, his eyes narrowing as he
stared at her.
“Why else would you personally come to retrieve her?” She laughed, tilting her
head as she stared back at him inquisitively, her soft blue eyes dancing with
laughter.
“Gilaiwë, to me she is but a child, I feel responsible for her.” He groaned as
he leaned down, capturing her mouth in a long searching kiss that turned hungry
as he felt her body pressing tighter against his own.
“Perhaps I just wanted to see you again.” He said quietly, a soft lilt of humor
resonated in his deep tone as he pulled back from her.
A playful mischief dancing in his eyes as he moved lower, gently sucking a
small nipple into his mouth. Closing his eyes, he flicked the tiny bud with tip
of his tongue, enjoying the soft moans that escaped her throat as he teased her
relentlessly. Releasing it as he felt her fingers tangle themselves in his
hair, he moved to the other one, his fingers quickly replacing his lips on the
other. Smiling to himself as he trailed his kisses, lower down her taut stomach
as he settled himself between her thighs. Grasping her hips gently yet firmly,
he drew his tongue teasingly along the inside of her sex before pressing his
lips at the apex. Encircling the small pearl with his lips, he suckled gently
as he pleasured her with the tip of his tongue. Moving upward only when her
groans became more demanding as she thrust against him, he pressed into her
warmth.
Wrapping her arms around him as he entered her, she hugged him tightly,
pressing her cheek against his chest. Breathing in the scent of him, she
listened to the soft moans boiling in his chest and throat as he moved against
her, taking her with him. Arching toward him, she met his thrusts with a hunger
that matched his as he built the tension between them. Clinging to him tightly
as she felt him stiffen, his breath coming in ragged gasps, she held him as he
found his release. Smiling as he collapsed against her, she continued to hold
him as she gently stroked his hair.
They were as much kindred Fäë (Spirit) now as they were long ago, with no care
for orthodox ways. She was of noble birth as was he, yet with many brothers and
sisters, she had been spared the ordeal of a forced arranged marriage that he
as his father’s only heir had endured. There had been many an elleth (Elf
maiden) that had warmed his bed over the many long years since he had lived
here for a time as a carefree young prince. Yet, as his first, it was always
Gilaiwë whose light burned the brightest in his memories.
The room had darkened as all but one of the tall tappers had flickered out into
puddles of melted of wax in their holders. Even the hearth had darkened,
casting an almost eerie ember glow about the room as they lay silently, their
bodies still entwined on the bed.
“Do you have to go so soon?” Gilaiwë whispered, her arm still held him
possessively as she rested her head on his chest, listening to the steady sound
of his heartbeat.
“I am afraid I do.” He sighed, one hand absently stroking her hair gently as he
caressed the soft flesh of her naked bottom with the other. “Even departing at
first light we will have to make camp at least once before entering the forest.
If we encounter the shelob (spiders), I do not wish to do so at night.”
“You must find a way to let me know you have arrived safely.” She told him as
she moved on top of him, clasping his face in her hands. “I shall be afraid for
you until I hear from you.”
“I will be fine Eshë.”(Friend-Trusted Ally). He told her as he pulled her face
closer, kissing her lips tenderly. “It should take no more than two days. I
will send word through Gléril, (A Raven) he will remember you and he is swift.”
It had been too long since they had been able to spend any length of time
together, the growing evil from the north had made travel too dangerous.
Knowing there was nothing she could say that would make him stay, Gilaiwë
kissed him softly and reluctantly released him. Watching him as he slipped out
of the bed, she admired his body as he walked toward the small table that held
a copper basin and a pitcher of water. Broad shouldered with a sender waist and
well-toned muscles from different battles, he was tall like his mother who was
Iathrim, a descendant of the Vanyar, giving him the sapphire eyes and long
golden hair so pale that it appeared silver in the sunlight.
“I have already sent word to have supplies taken to the Vale for your journey.”
She told him as she sat up, wrapping her arms around her knees as she drew them
toward her breasts. Smiling as she watched him wash quickly.
“Thoughtful as always.” He said, flashing her a smile as he turned to his
riding clothes neatly hung over the back of a nearby chair.
“My annual sojourn to the Grey Mountains is in four moons.” She said quietly,
still watching him as if she wanted to commit every detail to memory, although
she would know his face anywhere.
“I wish you would forego your trip.” He stated, casting her a grim expression
as he pulled on his leggings. “It is not safe.”
“We will take the Anduin and travel by foot once we reach the Langwell Fork at
Greylin.” She stated, stubbornly meeting his gaze with her own willfulness.
Sighing heavily as he pulled on his riding tunic, he felt fear for her rising
in his gut. While the shelob (spiders) did not leave the cover of the forest,
there were still goblin forces and errant orcs living in the deeper caverns and
tunnels within the Misty Mountains. They were not known for attacking ships
along Anduin but it was not something he would wager on.
“I need to know you are safe Gilaiwë.” He said sternly as he walked back toward
her. “I mean it, I cannot lose you too.” He said, his voice softening as he
sank down onto the bed, pulling her into his lap.
“Thranduil.” She stated quietly but firmly as she took his face in her hands,
forcing him to meet her gaze. “It is not truly safe anywhere. Whatever this
evil is, it has paid no attention to Lórinand because we are far too small and
too few to pose a threat. The day will come when I will journey to the Grey
Mountains to join my family and stay where I can live in peace, but that time
is not now.”
“Please try to understand.” She told him softly when he remained silent,
staring at her as a sadness crept into the depths of his sapphire eyes.
“You give me no choice.” He sighed as he hugged her tightly before turning to
lay her back onto the bed. His expression grew grim as he leaned forward to
retrieve his riding boots. “We both have our duties.” He said as he pulled them
on and rose to his feet, turning to flash a huge smile at her.
“Come here.” He chuckled, holding his arms out to her. “Just because I do not
like something does not mean I do not understand.” He said as he wrapped his
arms around her, capturing her mouth in a long searching kiss. Without another
word he released her and turned away, striding purposefully out of her bed
chamber. He wanted that image of her and those last few moments together to
live in his memory until the next time he saw her.
The ride to the north Vale was little more than an hour from Gilaiwës’ cottage
in the Noldor Vale. Giving Maeglir his head to take the lead, Thranduil relaxed
in the saddle, enjoying the gentle but chilly breeze in his hair as his steed
broke into a swift canter. Sighing heavily, he braced himself for his meeting
with Tauriel as the soft glow of the lanterns at the ferry dock finally came
into view. Reining him in, he guided Maeglir back into the forest as he made
his way to the stables behind the Inn.
“My Lord.” Macilvoronhûr greeted him as he dismounted. “He’s with Lenwë.” He
answered, reading the kings’ unspoken question as he took the reins from him.
“Tauriel is with him.” He added as the king arched his brow at him.
Nodding his thanks, Thranduil turned away and strode toward the hallway that
would take him through the inns’ large dining room. Frowning inwardly at how so
much had changed since he had last visited, he moved quickly toward Lenwës’
private quarters in the front of the inn.
“Go on in, he’s expecting you.” The servant told him with a smile as he reached
the archway.
“Thank you Tíránist.” Thranduil replied quietly, nodding as he moved passed him
to the slightly open door.
“It is good to know some things never change.” Lenwë stated, flashing him broad
a toothy grin, moving toward him as Thranduil entered the large sitting room.
“I could say the same about you.” Thranduil laughed as the two embraced in the
middle of the room.
“Tóriôn is green with envy that you were spending your only night here with the
Lady Gilaiwë.” He whispered in his ear before releasing him, enjoying the ever
so slight blush that colored Thranduils’ neck.
“Perhaps next time when I can stay longer.” Thranduil replied, his eyes danced
a little with the memory of the slender but very talented ellyn (male elf) and
their private escapades at the waterfall.
Observing in silence as she stood at the edge of the large hearth, Tauriel
tried to remember the last time she had seen the king truly smile. Even when he
did, it never reached his eyes as it did now. She was more than just angry with
him yet she could feel it dim slightly as she watched him, he was beautiful
especially when he seemed so happy. For so long his face had hardened with
concern and the strain of the darkness that had crept so stealthily over their
beloved forest. Watching him now, his face relaxed, she remembered happier
times in their fortress home. A time when she would try to hide from him and
Legolas but he would always find her and send her squealing as they played away
the hours.
“Regrettably I must leave you now.” Thranduil stated, his tone turning stern as
he watched her in the fringes of his view. “I want to reach the High Pass
before we make camp. We need to reach the Vale of the Forked Pass by midday on
the morrow if we are to be safely in the palace by nightfall.”
“That is quite a distance.” Lenwë commented thoughtfully, frowning slightly as
they both turned toward Aldalómë who stood silently only a few feet away.
“It will be a good push but we will rest the mounts at Loeg Ningloron.” He
stated, his gaze shifting between the two. “The first part is the longest part
of the journey. The difficulty will come once we enter the forest.”
“You will have to stay on the eastern side of the Anduin.” Lenwë stated,
turning toward the king. “The western shores have become too marshy once you
reach the Sîr Ninglor inlet.”
“Yes. The river will provide the distance between us and the foothills as
well.” Thranduil nodded, his gaze taking on a distant look as his thoughts
already turned toward the journey ahead. “I will make arrangements to send word
to the Lady Gilaiwë once we have arrived safely.” He added, smiling as he
turned to embrace Lenwë one last time.
“Aa' lasser en lle coia n' omenta gurtha.” (May the leaves of your life tree
never turn brown) Lenwë stated as he hugged him tightly.
“Aa' menealle nauva calen ar' malta.” (May your ways be green and golden)
Thranduil replied, returning his embrace.
“My Lord.” Aldalómë stated with a respectful nod toward Lenwë as Thranduil
turned toward the door without looking at them. “Tauriel.” He said quietly as
he waved his hand toward the king, indicating that he would follow her.
“My Lord.” She said quietly, giving Lenwë a respectful nod as she walked passed
him.
They moved swiftly through the large dining room, the long strides of the
taller elves made her feel as if she were almost running to keep up with them.
Emerging from the hallway into the stable yard, the rest of the guard had
already mounted and were waiting for them.
Taking the reins from Eluandúnië, Thranduil grasped the saddle horn and easily
swung his long frame atop his mount. Turning to face her as she stood beside
Aldalómë, he extended his hand down toward her.
“I can ride by myself.” She stated, lifting her chin in defiance.
“Tauriel.” Thranduil stated sharply through clenched jaws, his eyes narrowing
as he glared at her.
Shaken at the tone of his voice, she froze for a moment before reaching for his
hand. Gasping as he easily pulled her into the saddle, plunking her
unceremoniously in front of him.
“Do not test me.” Thranduil whispered a warning in her ear as he slipped one
arm tightly around her waist, nearly jerking her back against him. “I do not
need the rein him, Maeglir knows me well.” He added as he motioned the huge war
steed forward with a slight movement of his hips, he smiled to himself as he
heard her breath catch in her throat.
Slowly the party made their way silently along the narrow trail toward the
ferry dock at the bend in the Anduin. Ordinarily they would have walked the
distance as it was just over a mile, yet knowing Tauriel as he did, he expected
some form of confrontation and preferred that it not be in a public place. He
was in a hurry to get as far away from Lórinand as quickly as possible so as
not to draw attention to them. Gilaiwë was right in that they had not been
bothered by the shelob (spiders) as they were too small to be of any interest
to them. But Thranduil was not so confident in the lack of interest from
whatever evil now inhabited Dol Guldur. Lórinand was located just north of
Fanghorn at the Gianduin River and had long served as a safe gateway for many
through the lower end of the Misty Mountains and he knew that attention would
be drawn to them soon enough.
“We will stay mounted.” Thranduil told the ferry master as they approached the
shore of the Anduin.
“Ben iest gîn, hîr vuin.” (As you wish, My Lord). He stated with a nod and
hurried down the slope toward the huge barge-like ferry.
“Easy.” Thranduil said quietly as Maeglir tossed his head and snorted his
reluctance to step up onto the unstable floating platform.
Held tightly against him Tauriel listened to his ever so soft voice speaking in
a gentle tone to the nervous steed. She felt the subtle movements of his hips
and knees as he easily coaxed the huge steed closer and up onto the unsteady
platform. She could feel the strong bond between them as the steed seemed
comforted not only by his presence but by something deeper. Unstable without
solid ground beneath their feet, the horses whinnied and snorted nervously as
the oarsman guided the large bulky ferry against the current toward the
opposite shore.
“I do not wish to delay.” Thranduil stated as they reached the shore. “We make
haste for the Imladris pass. We will rest the horses at Loeg Ningloron and not
before.” He continued as the oarsmen secured the ferry to the shore. One by one
the horses leapt from the wooden barge, galloping into the darkness as soon as
their hooves found solid ground.
Chapter End Notes
     Sindarin Words Used:
     Eshë – Full Phrase = Eshë nîn níëvé meaning “my friend in the sense
     of a trusted ally who is also a lover yet not life mate”
     Iathrim – Held to be the highest and noblest of the Grey-even
     kindred, serving under the order of Queen Melian who was of the Maia
     Maia – Spirits who descended to Arda to help in the shaping of the
     World (Gandalf was a Maia)
     Vanyar – The first and the smallest of the three ‘Clans of the Elves’
     also known as Ingwer meaning ‘Chieftains’
     Maeglir – Thranduil’s War Steed.
***** The Journey Home *****
Chapter Summary
     Traveling north, they kept as close to the eastern shore of the
     Andiun as safely possible allowing for as much distance between them
     and the Misty Mountains as well as the forest. Silent in their own
     thoughts, both Thranduil and Tauriel find themselves becoming more
     and more aware of their attraction to each other.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
Although the sun was already high in the sky by the time they reached Loeg
Ningloron, it did little to warm the chilly winter winds that blew down from
the snow covered peaks of the Misty Mountains. They had only stopped once long
enough to retrieve their riding cloaks from their packs before Thranduil pushed
them back to an almost relentless speed. Warmed by his cloak and body heat as
he held her tightly against him, Tauriel still felt the cold stinging her
cheeks as the landscape raced passed by them in a blur. Much more accustomed to
sprinting on foot in the forest, Tauriel felt as if every bone and muscle in
her body ached.
“Come on.” Thranduil said quietly as he dismounted, swinging her down with him.
“They need to rest and you need walk.” He told her as he unfastened the thick
cloak and pulled if off his shoulders.
“What about you?” She asked as he wrapped the comforting warmth of the cloak
around her shoulders.
“I will be fine.” He stated, avoiding the urge to look at her as he fastened it
at her neck. “Now walk.” He added as he turned her away from him and gave her a
gentle push.
“But...” She started, turning around to complain but he had walked away from
her and was now already in what appeared to be a deep discussion with Aldalómë.
Angry as she was with him, she didn’t really want to fight with him, she hugged
the thick cloak tighter around her and simply walked back and forth. The air
was still chilly but there was less wind now that they were not racing along
banks of the Anduin, her muscles complaining profusely with each step.
“Here, eat this.” Rínnänéth said quietly as he approached, handing her a bread
roll and a flask of water. “We won’t make camp until closer to time for the
evening meal. You’ll be pretty hungry by then.” He told her with a slight smile
and abruptly walked away from her.
Leaning against a rock outcropping, she frowned as she weighed the bread roll
in her hand for a moment. It felt heavy as if it wasn’t quite cooked all the
way through. Curious, she bit into it and was pleasantly surprised as the taste
of goat cheese filled her mouth. Keeping her head down slightly as she ate, she
watched the king as he continued his discussion with Aldalómë now joined by
Eluandúnië. His arms were folded across his chest and his expression seemed
tense and guarded as he turned in the direction Aldalómë was pointing. He
looked tired and cold, making her feel guilty that he had given her his cloak
since she did not have one.
“Mount up.” Thranduil ordered as he walked toward Maeglir. “Just a little
further boy, then we rest for the night.” He said quietly laying his cheek
against the horses’ broad face as he stroked his thick strong neck.
“Is everything alright?” She asked as he led the horse over to her.
“Why wouldn’t it be?” He asked as he unfastened the cloak, still not looking at
her as he wrapped it around his shoulders.
“What was Aldalómë pointing at?” Tauriel pressed as he swung himself up into
the saddle.
“Nothing, now come.” He stated, finally looking at her as he reached down
toward her, noting the slight redness on her cheeks from the chilly wind.
Grasping her hand, he pulled her easily into the saddle in front of him,
positioning her in front of him a little more gently than he had the first
time.
“It should be easier for you. We will not be moving quite as fast now.” He told
her, grabbing the outer edge of the flowing cloak and wrapped it tightly around
her.
“Move.” He barked the order, his voice low yet carrying clearly through the
chilly air as he shifted his weight slightly, launching Maeglir into a fast
canter north toward the Old Forest Road.
She watched from over the folds of the thick cloak as they assumed their normal
formation with Aldalómë and Glaurhalbër in the lead and the other three guards
flanking Thranduil, effectively boxing them in the middle. Her gaze dropped to
his gloved hand as he held the reins loosely, again feeling him guiding the
huge horse using slight pressure with his knees and subtle movement of his
hips. Yet it also made her so much more aware of him, the strength in his arm
as he held her tightly against the length of his hard body. She felt every
movement against her as he tightened his thighs on the steeds’ wide girth and
rocked his hips urging him forward at a faster pace.
Smiling to himself, he slipped his arm further around her slender waist as he
felt her lean back against him. Although his cloak was filled with her scent,
he leaned down slightly, pressing his cheek against her temple, enjoying her
closeness. He remembered her as a young elfling, she had been so frightened of
Maeglir yet she enjoyed watching him ride from a distance as he raced him
around the grassy fields. A slight smile curled his lips as he remembered her
tantrums when he allowed some of the other elflings to ride him all by
themselves, afraid they would fall off and get hurt.
Shaking himself back to the present, Thranduil looked toward the desolate
craggy slopes of the Misty Mountains just beyond the Anduin on their left.
Scanning the rocky face, he looked for movement of any kind as both goblin and
orc could easily blend in with the mottled gray and black coloring of the
uneven and stony mountain side. Riding closer to the shores of Anduin provided
good distance between them and forest, even though he wasn’t as much concerned
with the shelob (spiders) at the moment. While they were only a small party,
the evil at Dol Guldur had made the goblins restless and in some ways more
daring, he was not willing to wager on their safety.
Slowly the air turned colder as the sun began its descent behind the jagged
outline of the mountain tops, casting long shadows across the Anduin. Still
they pressed on toward a small landmark of stone outcroppings just beyond the
Old Forest Road. It would be a safe place to make camp, giving them a break
from the winds that had intensified and providing some semblance security.
An uncomfortable feeling settled over her as they approached the semicircle of
stone. Having served in the kings’ forest patrol for most of her adulthood, she
recognized some of the hand signals as Eluandúnië and Glaurhalbër separated
from the group, heading north. Macilvoronhûr and Rínnänéth split from them
heading south as Aldalómë guided his mount toward them. His cold blue eyes
flickered over her, Tauriel pressed instinctively tighter against the king as
they waited in silence for them to return. Her uneasiness only grew as she
watched the silent communication between them when the others returned. Strange
glances and slight nods that told her nothing as they dismounted, moving into
the cover of the rocks.
“Stay here.” Thranduil told her as he once again pulled off his cloak and
wrapped it around her shoulders.
“What is it?” She asked, following him as he walked away from her.
“Stay here.” He stated sharply, turning to face her, his face seemed as hard as
the stones around them as he narrowed his eyes at her.
Swallowing hard at the sudden change in his demeanor, Tauriel shrank back from
him as he continued to glare at her. Still she felt the heat of her anger
stinging her cheeks as her stomach twisted in knots as he turned away from her.
She was not a defenseless child in need of his protection. She had proven her
worth many times over as a captain in his forest patrol. Yet there was
something in his gaze that silenced her. Clenching her teeth, she reluctantly
turned away from him toward one of the larger stones and sank down in front of
it.
“Damn you!” She cursed him silently as she settled against the stone surface,
wrapping the cloak tighter around her.
She had little memory of her parents, their fortress palace and life under the
kings’ protection was all she knew. There were others like her, elflings who
had lost their parents, families and friends in wars who also lived there as
wards of the king. He had taken a special interest in her and had lavished her
with attention, allowing her to attend classes with Legolas, even training with
him when she was old enough and she had excelled with the bow and the knife.
Tauriel knew she owed him much yet she needed to prove herself worthy of the
praise he so often heaped upon her. Yet deep down, she knew that was not the
reason she had fought him so hard for his approval to join the forest patrol
now many long years ago.
“It will be dark soon.” Macilvoronhûr said quietly, interrupting her thoughts
as he handed her another of the baked rolls and a flask of water. “There will
be no fire tonight. We will move again before dawn.”
“Why will he not talk to me?” She asked, meeting his soft green eyes as she
accepted the food from him.
She felt her anger rise again as he only smiled slightly and turned away from
her. There was much history between them and she was nothing more than baggage.
A mixture of both Sindar and Silvan, they had all grown up together under the
rule of King Oropher, serving as captains in the forest patrol and had fought
side by side in defense of the realm. A Sindar like the king, Aldalómës’
father, Lord Garävegión was the kings’ chief counselor and closest advisor. The
two of them had been inseparable as elflings, along with Glaurhalbër, another
Sindar who served as second in command in Aldalómës’ rare absences. Unlike what
she knew of his father, the king did not appear to share the same opinion of
Silvan elves as he had appointed a number of them to high ranking positions
within his council. Yet, he always deferred to the council of the Sindar.
It was dark by the time the king returned to her as she huddled against the
stone, clinging to the warmth of the cloak. He remained silent, not looking at
her has he dropped to his knees and brushed away loose stones and other debris
at the base of the tallest of the jutting rocks. She could still make out the
grim expression on his face as he looked up when Macilvoronhûr and Rínnänéth
joined them.
“You need to sleep.” He told her, there was no emotion in his tone as he pulled
off his gloves, laying them aside as he reached for the clasp at her throat.
“You’re freezing!” She exclaimed, his cold fingers brushed her chin as he
unfastened the clasp.
“I am fine.” He stated, frowning at her as he took her hand, pulling her with
him as he laid down on the hard surface.
Curling against her body as he drew the cloak over them, Thranduil stiffened as
she snuggled closer to him. Swallowing with difficulty as she pressed her
backside firmly against his groin, he struggled to remain still as the soft
scent of lavender and lilac mingled with her own wafted through his senses with
her squirming. Tall for a Silvan elf, her body molded so comfortably to his as
he carefully adjusted his position, slipping his arm around her waist. The heat
from her body slowly warmed him as he lay quietly, holding her and listening to
her breathing. Frowning inwardly, he prepared himself for what he knew would be
a very long night.
“Even if we manage to slip quietly through the back gate word will spread.”
Glaurhalbër said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper as they stood the
first watch for the night.
“Aye.” Aldalómë sighed, casting him a quick sideways glance. “Say nothing to no
one.” He added as he turned his eyes back to the mountain side.
The night passed slowly for all of them as Rínnänéth silently stepped back into
their makeshift camp. Thrusting his chin toward the east as Aldalómë peered out
from under the hood of his cloak, he gave him the signal that dawn would break
shortly. Casting a quick glance toward the king, he nodded as Aldalómë shook
his head, they would leave him sleep while they gathered the horses.
Within minutes Thranduil emerged from behind the rocks, frowning at Aldalómë as
he walked briskly toward him. They remained silent as the king turned to scan
their surroundings even though he knew the others had already mounted and were
waiting a short distance away.
“This was a fools’ errand.” Aldalómë stated, finally breaking the silence
between them. The disapproval clear in both his tone.
“Not now.” Thranduil said quietly, folding his arms across his chest as if it
would ward off the oncoming chill.
Smelling the air, he turned toward the west, noting that the snow had crept
even farther down the mountain slopes during the night. A heavy frost seemed to
cover everything that wasn’t moving, sparkling like thousands of tiny diamonds
as the pink light of a false dawn crept over the dense forest in the distance.
He could hear the faint calls of the Morning Doves and Quail nesting in the
tall grassy fields between them and the forest.
Clicking his tongue, he called Maeglir to him, smiling as he heard him snort
followed by the sound of his hooves as he cantered up to him.
“Tonight you shall have the comfort of your warm stall and fresh sweet hay.” He
told him softly, running his fingers through his mane as the huge steed nuzzled
his chest. Patting the broad side of his thick neck, he grasped the reins and
led him back toward the semicircle of rocks.
“Tauriel.” He said softly, touching her shoulder. “Come, we need to leave.”
Waking with a start, she stared up at him for a moment before pushing herself
to her feet. She could see the concern etched in his features, yet there was
something else about him that seemed slightly distant as he turned away from
her. Frowning, she pulled the cloak tighter around her as she followed him.
“I do not intend to stop until we are safely in the palace.” He said quietly as
he rummaged in one of the saddle bags. “You need to eat before we start.” He
told her, handing her one of the baked rolls as he turned back toward her.
A slight shake of his head silenced her as he turned his attention to Maeglir,
giving her the opportunity to eat. Frowning, she watched him as she ate in
silence. The air was cold enough she could see his breath in the faint glow of
morning, yet his gloves hung at his belt as he ran this bare fingers through
the steeds mane and cross his face. Again she felt the bond between them, they
seemed to speak to each other in a language only they knew and understood.
“Like the language of lovers.” She thought, feeling the heat of her
embarrassment staining her cheeks. That feeling only deepened as she remembered
the feel of him as he curled his body around her so possessively through the
night. The feel of his face buried in her hair at the back of her neck as he
sought the heat from her body.
“We need to go.” He stated, turning suddenly toward her, his icy fingers
brushed her chin as he unfastened the clasp of the cloak.
Unwilling to look at her face lest she read his thoughts, he kept his attention
focused on the clasp and turned away from her as he swung it around his
shoulders. Mounting quickly, he reached for her and pulled her quickly into the
saddle in front of him. Pausing only long enough to retrieve his gloves before
wrapping her once again in the cloak as he motioned Maeglir into a brisk walk
toward the others who waited a short distance away.
“Do you always read each other’s thoughts?” She asked, allowing her irritation
to show slightly as she watched them exchange glances and then shift to a
different formation.
“Sometimes.” Thranduil told her quietly, slipping his arm tighter around her as
he caught the sideways glances from both Aldalómë and Eluandúnië.
Pursing her lips in frustration, Tauriel ignored them and turned her gaze
toward the distant forest, yet she could not ignore the possessive way he held
her so tightly against him. She felt the heat of embarrassment rising in her
cheeks as she was forced to lean against the length of him, her thoughts
turning to the way he held her last night. The heat from his body radiated
through her as he slept, burying his face in her neck as chilly fingers of cold
air seeped beneath the heavy cloak.
All too soon the edge of the forest loomed before them as they descended the
sloping field. The guards moved to single file, Aldalómë in the lead and the
king in center as they approached the Great Horned Gate, the start of the elven
path through the forest. Passing through the gate, an eerie darkness engulfed
them almost as if night had fallen, the foul stench of decay drifted on the
subtle current of air that seemed to come from everywhere yet nowhere.
Illuminated with elven magic, the path was still dim as it wound its’ way for
almost one hundred and fifty miles through dense clusters of gnarled and
twisted trunks, heavily draped in thick vines of poison sumac.
“Be still.” He said quietly close to her ear, tightening his hold on her as he
dropped his other hand down to grasp the hilt of his sword.
Hindered by the colder temperatures in the winter months, most of the shelob
(spiders) nests were closer to the tree tops where the branches still protected
then from the gusting winds and the air was slightly warmer during the day. The
forest grew more densely here, forcing them to move at a much slower pace than
Thranduil would have preferred, the guards maintained a tight line and steady
forward pace with their bows at the ready. Unless they felt threatened or very
hungry, they were usually not interested in attacking such a large group on
horseback verses a single rider or a small group on foot. Yet they could feel
the eyes of the shelob (spiders) watching and hear the snapping of twigs and
smaller branches beneath their weight as they followed them along the path from
up above.
Suddenly the forest seemed to open up as the trees began to thin out, allowing
them to move at a faster pace toward the Enchanted River that flowed from the
center of the Mirkwood Mountains, winding its way through underground aquafers
beneath the elven halls. Reaching the river, the small boats were not meant to
ferry the horses across, forcing them to follow it north until it joined the
Forest River that flowed south from the Grey Mountains.
Securing their weapons as they reached the rivers junction, they waited at the
shoreline as the oarsmen guided the barge across. As if sensing they were
almost home, the horses were almost eager to climb up on the broad unsteady
platform. Unlike the barges in Lórinand which were designed to haul large heavy
loads for trading with the dwarves of Moria and the woodsmen of Gianduin, it
took two trips for the entire party to cross. Continuing north, the shadows
grew longer as the sun dipped into the western mountain peaks, they made their
way toward the stable area at the rear of the elven halls.
“Aldalómë.” Thranduil stated just loud enough to be heard, reining Maeglir to a
halt as the large stable doors came into view.
“What does that mean?!” Tauriel asked more sharply as she watched him hold up
his hand, pointing his finger upward as he made a spinning motion when the
Chief March Warden turned to look back at him.
“Nothing.” Thranduil said quietly, smiling as he felt her body stiffen and knew
she was getting frustrated and angry with him. His arm tightened around her as
he watched them enter the stable while he remained in the shadows.
“I am not a child!” She hissed through clenched teeth as she twisted in the
saddle to glare at him.
“I did not say you were.” He said softly, smiling as he gazed into her flashing
angry eyes. He leaned forward slightly, feeling her breath on his lips.
Shocked into silence Tauriel felt her head swim as he jerked his hips forward
sending Maeglir nearly running into the stables.
“Take her the back way.” Thranduil ordered, pulling her easily with him as he
swung his long frame down from the saddle.
Confused, Tauriel only gasped as Glaurhalbër and Rínnänéth stepped up beside
her, whisking her quickly through a side door that led into various storage
rooms.
“Take me where?!” She demanded as they continued silently through yet another
door into a narrow tunnel that felt like it was going upward. This was a part
of the palace she had never been in and had no idea where they were taking her
or why.
Chapter End Notes
     Thanks again for reading! Comments are always welcome!
***** Gilded Cage *****
Chapter Summary
     Tensions grow between Thranduil and Tauriel but not the way he would
     have preferred. After keeping her confined within the luxurious guest
     room near his personal chambers, supposedly to give her time to think
     and reflect, Thranduil finds a very angry Tauriel on his first visit
     to her in a month. Much more accustomed to members of the fairer sex
     being more eager for his attention, he responds in typical Thranduil
     fashion by taunting her with the knowledge of her personal exploits
     with Legolas. While they deny it to themselves, their feelings for
     each other continue to grow.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
“It has been a month.” Galion said quietly as he poured a cup of spiced apple
tea and handed it to the king. “How long do you intend to torment her?” He
added, arching a brow.
“Is that what I’m doing?” Thranduil smiled sweetly from behind guarded eyes as
he accepted the cup. “She simply needs time.”
“Time for what?” Galion pressed, seating himself opposite him as the king
looked away from him to gaze into the hearth.
The only sound was the soft crackling of the logs in the enormous hearth as
Galion studied him from over the rim of his cup. The kings’ expression was now
guarded and unreadable, even to him who had known him for most of his life.
Their losses had been heavy during the battle in the shadows of the Lonely
Mountain. Galion knew this weighed heavy on the kings’ mind and heart. While
Tauriels’ departure had angered him, it was the absence of his only child that
brought him the most pain.
“Or is it you who needs the time?” Galion ventured as the silence stretched too
long between them, a slow smile curling his lips as his soft green eyes
narrowed slightly.
“Whatever do you mean?” Thranduil asked, tilting his head as he looked at him
innocently.
“She is young and grows more frustrated by the day.” Galion told him, pausing
to take a sip of his tea. “Tauriel has never been known for her patience.”
“Neither is she known for understanding her place.” Thranduil replied casually,
yet there was an odd look in his sapphire eyes as he turned to look at his
longtime friend and personal servant.
“And what place is that?” Galion chuckled, although he already knew the answer
recognizing the slight curl of the kings’ lips.
“Patience is a virtue.” The king replied, turning his attention back to the
dancing flames in the hearth.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
“Why will you not answer my questions?” Tauriel demanded more than asked. Her
dark green eyes flashed angrily as she swung to face Eluandúnië, the only one
of the kings’ personal guards that treated her with some degree of politeness.
“You know as well as I do, the king does not explain himself.” He replied, his
tone far more calm than he felt as he watched her turn away from him.
“For what purpose has he dragged me back here?! Only to ignore me!!” She
continued to question him, folding her arms beneath her breasts as she paced
the length of the sitting room. “Have I not suffered enough?!”
Tears stung the backs of her eyes as she paced, stubbornly she blinked them
away. Refusing to give him the pleasure of reporting her weakness to Aldalómë,
it would only get back to the king. Alone for the most part, with only her
thoughts and memories to keep her company, she neither wanted or needed his
pity and longed for the freedom of the forest. Striding purposefully toward the
bed chamber, Tauriel felt the tears leak down her cheeks as the memory of Kili
overwhelmed her. The pain of her loss was only intensified when Legolas
abandoned her. Slamming the door behind her, she threw herself onto the bed,
burying her face in the soft pillow as she let them flow freely.
“I hate you!” She screamed into the pillow, the ache deep within her grew to a
sharp pain as if a knife had suddenly been plunged into her heart.
So were all the days that passed, she suffered in silence within the private
rooms assigned to her. The guards came and went, her questions falling on deaf
ears, their stoic expressions revealing nothing. Silent servants brought her
meals, straightened her rooms and lighting the fires at night. Each day fading
into the next, her tears fell less often yet the memories still haunted her
dreams. Against her will, Tauriel found herself succumbing to the monotonous
routine of life within the spacious rooms that had become her prison.
Sitting quietly in front of the hearth, Tauriel frowned slightly as she heard a
soft knock on the door at such a late hour. The evening meal had long since
passed, the servants had collected the tray and brought her a fresh pot of
cinnamon spiced hazel nut tea. Her gaze remained fixed on the flames that
danced on the logs in the hearth, knowing it was little more than a courtesy as
the guard would enter with or without her summons.
“Tauriel.”
Turning quickly at the sound of his voice, she rose hastily to her feet. A
myriad of emotions washed over her as she stared at the guarded face of the
king. Stiffening slightly as she stepped back from him, she rested her hands on
the back of the chair where she had been sitting.
“My Lord.” She stated, meeting his gaze evenly.
“Are you afraid of me?” Thranduil asked quietly as he approached her, arching a
brow as his eyes moving over the length of her.
“Should I be?” Tauriel asked, her eyes narrowing slightly as she tilted her
chin almost defiantly toward him.
“You never had a reason to be afraid of me before, why would you now?” He said
quietly as he stopped within arm’s length of her.
The tone of his voice carried the soft lilt of humor that grated on her.
Unconsciously her fingers gripped the back of the chair as they stood there for
long moments just staring at each other, her thoughts jumbled over each other.
“You have never held me prisoner before.” Tauriel stated, struggling to control
her anger as he smiled at her, tilting his head curiously.
“I can understand why Legolas would desire you.” Thranduil said in a distracted
tone, enjoying the flash of anger in her eyes as he appeared to absently wet
his lips with the tip of his tongue.
“I assure you My Lord...”
“You can assure me of nothing. I know my son.” He interrupted her as he stepped
slightly closer, his smile broadening as he watched her eyes widen. “Did you
really think your little trysts were not known to me? Do you really think you
were the only one?” He continued, arching a brow at her yet he watched her
every movement.
“How dare you!” She hissed, lashing out instinctively only to cry out in pain
as he quickly snatched her wrist.
“I dare whatever I chose.” Thranduil breathed heatedly in her ear as he twisted
her arm behind her and pinioned her tightly against him. “Once I saw the way
you looked at each other, did you really think I would not know?” He asked as
he leaned down closer, purposefully brushing her neck with his lips as he
spoke.
“I hate you!” She hissed as she tried to pull free of his grasp, only to feel
his arms tighten around her, pressing her against the length of him. Fresh
tears stinging the backs of her eyes as she felt the hardness of his desire
against her the small of her back as he kissed her neck softly. As angry as she
was with him, the realization of her own desires overwhelmed her making her
tremble.
“There is a way one looks at another when there is only desire.” He whispered,
brushing his lips against her ear as he spoke. “Yet it is something quite
different once one has come to know another.” He continued, his voice barely
above a whisper as he breathed in the scent of her.
“What about you?!” She demanded, turning her face away from him.
“I just wanted you to know that I knew.” He said quietly, kissing her temple
then suddenly released her.
“Damn you!” Tauriel exclaimed as he turned away from her, striding purposefully
toward the door.
“Tell Aldalómë I wish to speak with him.” Thranduil informed Macilvoronhûr as
he pulled the door closed behind him. “Lock it.” He added as the guards eyes
glanced quickly at the door.
“As you wish.” The guard answered with a quick nod. Shaking his head as the
king turned away from him, he locked the door and went in the opposite
direction.
Smiling to himself, Thranduil walked purposefully around the corner and down
the steps to his more private areas within the palace. The scent of the
lavender and lilac soap mingled with her own seemed to cling to him as he
entered the lower chambers.
“Tell Aldalómë not to bother knocking.” He informed the guard as he reached the
bottom of the stairs into his private audience chamber.
“My Lord.” Thalieth replied quietly, nodding as the king strode passed him
without pausing.
Entering his private study he moved straight to the wine cabinet, collecting
two goblets and a carafe of his preferred Dorwinion wine. Although the evening
had grown late it was still early enough he knew the Chief March Warden would
still be awake. Setting the carafe and the goblets on a small table between the
two tall chairs before the hearth, he set about lighting the logs himself.
There had been no need to leave instructions for the servants to light this one
as he normally conducted his daily business immediately following the morning
meal, preserving his evenings for his own leisure.
“You are a fool.” Aldalómë stated as he closed the door behind him, his blue
eyes guarded as he walked toward him. They had known each other since they were
young elflings and was one of only a handful who could speak his mind to him.
“Starting tomorrow Tauriel may come and go as she pleases within the confines
of the palace.” Thranduil stated as he leaned forward, filling the other goblet
for him. “I expect that you will still keep an eye on her.” He added, noting
the curious look from Aldalómë as he accepted the goblet.
“What did you do?” Aldalómë sighed heavily as he sank into the comfort of the
padded chair opposite the king.
“She has a fire in her.” Thranduil said quietly, his eyes dancing as he smiled
devilishly from over from over the rim of his goblet.
“Yes, and you’re going to get burned if you keep stoking it.” He chided him as
he watched the odd play of expressions across the kings’ face. Frowning
slightly when Thranduil only laughed softly and shifted his position in the
chair.
“You can have any elleth (elf maiden) you want, why this one?” He asked,
shaking his head but couldn’t help smile at him as he relaxed back in the
chair.
“I could also have my choice of quite a few ellyn’s (male elf) but where’s the
challenge in that?” Thranduil laughed and took a long drink from his goblet.
“She still mourns for the dwarf and pines after Legolas.” Aldalómë stated, his
disapproval clearly visible by his deep frown. “This cannot lead to anything
good.”
“I cannot let her go.” Thranduil said quietly as he looked down into the dark
liquid in his goblet.
“Cannot or will not?” Aldalómë pressed him, arching a brow when the king only
glared at him.
“Either way it does not matter.” Thranduil snapped at him, flashing him an
angry glare before turning to gaze into the leaping flames in the heart. “She
belongs here.” He said quietly after long moments.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
“Damn him! Damn him! Damn him!” Tauriel ranted as she paced along the rug in
front of the hearth.
Resting one elbow in her hand, she covered the place on her neck where kissed
her, the heat of his lips had shaken her. The scent of him lingered, a strong
scent of sandalwood mingled with the softer scent of Niphredil, the white star
flowers found throughout the forest. She could still smell the sweet scent of
his breath as he whispered to her. Slowly as her anger began to fade, she
remembered not only the strength in his arms and the heat that emanated from
him as he held her so tightly against the hard length of his body, but his
clear desire for her.
Closing her eyes as the heat of her blush stung her cheeks. Against her will
her thoughts turned to those stolen evenings under the stars with Legolas. How
gentle he was with her, treating her as if she were made of fine spun glass
afraid she would shatter at the slightest touch. The king was so different,
everything about him from the way he looked at her, the way he held her, the
heat of his breath, even his whispered voice was far more bold and it excited
her.
“Oh my God!” She choked as the full realization of her thoughts hit her.
Nearly jumping to her feet, she hurried toward her bathing chamber. Stripping
off the gown she had selected that morning, she left it in a pile on the floor.
Lifting the small lever on the back of the copper tub that provided a
continuous flow of heated water from the huge copper vats in the kitchen, she
sank down into it. Pouring generous amounts of the scented soap onto a washing
cloth, she set about vigorously scrubbing every inch of her body, determined to
remove even the slightest scent of him. Stopping her task only when the water
had cooled enough to chill her, rinsing away the soap, she pushed herself out
of the tub and hurriedly dried off as she went into her bed chamber.
Slipping beneath the covers, she hugged the overly soft pillow and felt the
tears stinging the backs of her eyes. The scent of him might be gone but the
other memories still haunted her as she lay quietly. Willing herself to go to
sleep, it would be long into the night before sleep found her as her mind
tormented her with the memories of how he held her, the unwanted feelings he
had stirred within her as he cuddled against her under the cloak.
Jolted awake as she felt someone touching her arm, Tauriel sat straight up in
the bed, clutching the blanket up over her breasts as the servant jumped back.
She stared wide eyed at the young elleth (elf maiden) who normally brought her
the tray for her morning meal.
“I didn’t mean to startle you but you were sleeping so heavily you didn’t hear
me.” The elleth (elf maiden) said shyly, still staring at her. “Glaurhalbër
asked me to give you this.” She said as she handed her a small sealed envelope.
“Thank you.” Tauriel said quietly as she accepted it and watched her disappear
silently.
Looking at the plain envelope that could have been meant for anyone, she
hesitated for a moment before tearing it open. It was a very brief message
informing her that she was free to enjoy her meals in the dining hall, her gaze
lingered on the scrawling signature that she recognized as his own handwriting.
There was no official seal nothing that would indicate who it was from much
less the king.
Laying it on the stand as she pushed herself out of the bed, angry with herself
for feeling slighted when she didn’t even have the right to expect anything
personal from him. Berating herself as she pulled the brush through the tangled
mass of her reddish auburn hair, frustrated at herself for going to bed without
waiting for it to dry.
Rummaging through the gowns in the huge wardrobe, wondering not for the first
time where they had come from, particularly since they all seemed to fit her
perfectly. Choosing a deep midnight blue silk with long sleeves, she quickly
slipped it over her head and struggled for a bit with the row of tiny of
buttons that ran down the bodice. She still missed the more comfortable fit of
her uniform, yet they were nowhere to be found.
Opening the door, she paused for a brief moment before striding past the guard
as she made her way to the dining hall. The enormous room was already quite
full, she heard the low hum of many conversations before she even entered,
scanning the tables quickly for a vacant seat. Almost as if drawn there like a
magnet, her gaze moved to the raised dais at the far end of the room where the
king and his council were seated. Turning away as quickly as she met his gaze,
she headed toward a table where she had seen a couple of her former patrol
friends sitting.
“Tauriel! Where have you been!?” Eréndriël asked excitedly as she waved her
over.
“Yes! Sit with us, we heard rumor you were back.” Gäérrÿk chimed with a grin.
“We thought you might have headed north with Legolas.”
“I was visiting friends in Lórinand.” She answered both of their questions as
she took the seat beside Eréndriël.
“So much for your idea of romance.” Gäérrÿk teased, flashing a grin at
Eréndriël. “When are you coming back to the patrols?” He asked more seriously,
turning his attention back to Tauriel.
“That is up to the king.” Tauriel replied quietly as she glanced around the
room, looking for any of the other captains. Frowning slightly as she caught
sight of Glaurhalbër standing stoically at the door she had entered. Turning
quickly toward the other door she saw Eluandúnië and knew that while she had a
level of freedom, she was still being guarded.
“Are you in trouble?” Eréndriël asked, her soft green eyes growing wide with
concern.
“No, I’m not in trouble.” Tauriel said quickly, giving her a slight hug. “I
will say only that the king is not very pleased with me at the moment and we
will let the subject drop.” She added more firmly, noting the quick glances
between the two of them.
It was good to have her friends to talk to and hear the reports of what was
happening out in the forest. They were still battling with nests of the shelob
(spiders) but seemed to be making some progress at driving them farther south
almost as far as the Mirkwood Mountains but they still returned. They talked a
little about the battle at the Lonely Mountain but mostly the slaying of Smaug
and the rebuilding of both the new city of Lake Town which was now situated on
the shore of the lake and the efforts to assist the former residents of Dale in
rebuilding their city as well. All too soon the meal ended as they needed to
get back to their posts.
“Will we see later?” Eréndriël asked, giving her a tight hug.
“Perhaps.” Tauriel told her, returning the hug fiercely. “It really is good to
see both of you again.” She said as she hugged Gäérrÿk as well before turning
and heading toward the door. Casting one final glance back at the dais, she
frowned slightly as she noticed that the king had already left.
Since she was not explicitly told she could go anywhere except the dining hall,
she made her way back to her rooms. Her heart was a little lighter with the
knowledge that she was at least allowed that much and she didn’t want to do
anything that would change his mind. She didn’t need to look behind her to know
that Glaurhalbër had followed her at a respectable distance, still giving her
the illusion of freedom.
“Did you enjoy your conversation with your friends?” Thranduil asked quietly,
arching a brow at her as she entered the sitting room.
Tauriel froze at the sound of his voice, sending her hair flying as she turned
quickly toward the hearth. Instantly overwhelmed with emotions as she focused
on his face, stiffening as his eyes seemed to rake over her body yet they held
her gaze, the almost taunting way he tilted his head to the side.
“Why am I here?” She asked as she moved toward him, stopping behind the chair
in front of him.
“I want you here, this is where you belong.” Thranduil replied as he rose from
the chair and walked toward her.
“You want!” Tauriel spat angrily, her entire body stiffening as she glared at
him. “What about what I want?!" She demanded more than asked, her chin lifting
in defiance.
“You do not know what you want.” He said quietly as he stepped closer to her.
Part of him wanting to leave yet he remained, watching the rise and fall of her
breasts as she stood there defying him as only she could do.
“Damn you!” She hissed, resisting the urge to lash out at him as she clenched
her hands into fists at her sides. As relaxed as he seemed, she knew better and
the last thing she wanted right now was to give him any more control over her.
“Such a biting tongue for one so beautiful.” He said quietly as he moved
slightly closer to her. Smiling almost tauntingly at how easily he could ignite
the fire within her. “Do you know your eyes shine like emeralds when you’re
angry?” He asked in the same quiet tone, the tip of his tongue wetting the
surface of his bottom lip.
“Stop treating me like a child!” She nearly screamed as she turned away from
him. Moving toward the hearth, putting the chair between them.
“Perhaps if you did not act like one I would not feel the need.” He said
quietly, the taunting smile returning to his lips as he watched her.
“Why won’t you leave me in peace?” She asked as she folded her arms beneath her
breasts, her eyes narrowing as she watched his expression harden slightly.
“If that is what you want, then you shall have it.” He stated far more calmly
than he felt as he gave her a slight nod and turned on his heel away from her.
“You bastard!” She hissed as she watched the door close behind him.
Chapter End Notes
     Again thanks for reading! So far the story has not been to the level
     of explicit sexual encounters as the greater majority of my writings,
     however, that will change as the story progresses. Comments are
     always welcome!
***** A Change of Heart *****
Chapter Summary
     While desires burn hotter within the fortress palace of Mirkwood and
     Thranduil begins to win Tauriels’ heart, it may all be for naught as
     trouble threatens on the horizon.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
Lounging comfortably in his favorite chair before the hearth, Thranduil watched
the flames as he allowed his mind to wander. Accustomed to having his thoughts
divided, he listened to Galions’ endless chatter as to the comings and goings
within the palace. He nodded and commented at all the right moments so he would
think he was actually paying attention to him. It was mostly just gossip but he
had learned long ago that he could glean bits and pieces from it that could
prove useful in dealing with certain people and situations.
Allowing the woodsmen temporary permission to thin out some of the trees in the
more densely overgrown areas had proven effective in controlling the shelob,
(spiders) it had stayed their encroachment toward the palace. Unfortunately it
had cost him more in the way of using troops to protect them rather than their
normal patrols of the outer edges of the forest. His feelings of restlessness
only intensified as his thoughts turned to his latest argument Tauriel with her
persistent requests that now become demands that she be allowed to return to
the forest patrol.
“What you are doing is wrong Thranduil and I think you know this.” Galions’
voice interrupted his thoughts, the disapproval resonating in his tone.
“What?” He frowned deeply as he turned to face him. “I am only trying to
protect her. I don’t want her fleeing back to Lórinand.” Thranduil stated
defensively, taking a long drink from his goblet as he eyed him suspiciously.
“You are hunting her as if she were little more than prey.” He retorted
angrily. “One you have cornered and yet you still toy with her. You have always
treated her as if she were your own child, not to mention she was a loyal
captain in the patrol and served you well for many years, she deserves better
than this.” He scolded him as if he were still the young elfling he knew
centuries ago when his father and the other Sindar arrived in Greenwood the
Great.
“You would not understand.” Thranduil groaned angrily as he rose to his feet to
stand closer to the hearth.
“My preferences may lie with ellyn (male elf) but I am far from ignorant in the
ways of elleth. (Elf maiden) Why don’t you try to explain it to me?” He said
quietly, studying him now as he watched the strange play of expressions chase
themselves across the kings’ normally guarded face.
“There is a fire in her that stirs something deep within me.” Thranduil said as
he watched the flames in the hearth. “A passion I have not felt in many long
years.” He added, his tone dropping to almost a whisper.
“Yes, I have watched her closely for many years.” He continued quietly, turning
to briefly look at the servant who was also his friend before looking back to
the flames. “Tauriel has always been special. She is not one that is impressed
by power or titles yet the crown is all she sees when she looks at me.” He
sighed heavily as he looked down into the dark liquid in his goblet.
“And you would rather she see you and not the crown.” Galion commented, a
knowing smile curled his lips.
“Is that so wrong?” Thranduil asked, turning to look at him.
“Might I offer you a bit of advice?” Galion asked, arching a brow at him.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Reluctantly Tauriel pushed herself out of the bed and made her way to the
bathing chamber. It had been nearly two weeks since the king had visited her.
She knew she had pushed him too far when he sent word that she was no longer
permitted the freedom of the palace after the evening meal which would be
brought to her rooms. Sighing heavily as she thought of his empty seat on the
dais for the morning and midday meals in the dining hall.
Filling the small basin, she set about the task of freshening herself for the
day. Staring at herself in the polished glass, she looked the same yet she
hardly recognized the sadness in the depths of the eyes that stared back at
her. Sadness, loneliness and anger seemed to fill her days. Sadness for a love
that might have been as she thought of Kili. She felt both sadness and
loneliness at the loss of Legolas, who had been like a brother to her, a friend
and companion until things changed with a single glance.
“There is a way one looks at another when there is only desire.” The kings’
words came back to haunt her as she remembered that first time with Legolas,
when she had so freely given herself to him. “Yet it is something quite
different once one has come to know another.” He had taunted her with his
knowledge of her private life.
Anger rose in her heart as she stared at herself, thinking of him. The king was
very beautiful and many a young maiden had desired him, herself included. Color
seeped into her cheeks as she remembered how shamelessly she had flirted with
him so long ago. He had been so sweet yet it was clear to her that he saw her
as nothing more than the daughter he would never have, politely but
appreciatively declining her advances. It hurt terribly but she had contented
herself for a time with his view of her until her desires grew stronger and his
fatherly embraces only tormented her.
“What is different now?” She silently asked the face that stared blankly back
at her.
Swallowing hard as she remembered the feel of his arms around her, the scent of
him through the sandalwood and Niphredil. Even now she could smell the sweet
scent of his breath and feel the heat where his lips had touched her skin. She
remembered the feel the hardness of his desire as he held her, pressing her
against him, as if he wanted her to know. Tears stung the backs of her eyes as
her thoughts turned to Legolas, questioning whether she had really loved him or
merely used him as a substitute for what she could not have. She had to mean
more to him than just a wayward child, somehow he had known where she had gone
and had personally travelled to Lórinand to bring her back.
“Stop it!” She scolded herself out loud as she turned away from the glass,
striding purposefully back into her bed chamber.
Stopping in her tracks as her gaze fell on the small settee at the foot of the
bed. Draped neatly over the arm was a full set of forest green winter riding
clothes with a pair of new boots sitting on the floor in front of it. Frowning
slightly as she saw the small folded piece of parchment and the Länciföliûm
flower, hesitantly she picked it up and unfolded it.
Trembling as she recognized the kings’ handwriting, she read the words he
wrote. “Tauriel, I would like your company this morning. Please meet me in the
stables. Thranduil.” Gently she picked up the cluster of tiny yellow flowers,
admiring them as she smelled them.
She felt her heart leap as she realized that he had to have brought the new
clothes and the flower himself as the message was not in a sealed envelope. The
language of flowers was very personal among the elves more commonly reserved
for courtly flirtations and secret messages between lovers’ yet the message of
the Länciföliûm confused her. Its apologetic meaning was diverse and could be
given as a way of telling someone you were sorry for anything ranging from
having wronged them or letting them know you share in their sorrow for their
loss of a loved one or a friend.
Excitedly, she snatched up the under garments and quickly began the task of
dressing herself for her first chance in months to be out of the palace and in
her beloved forest. Frowning for a brief instant as she buttoned up the front
of it, admiring herself in the tall silvered glass, she wondered where it had
come from as it fit her body perfectly. As quickly as the thought occurred to
her, it flittered from her mind as she grabbed up the brush on her dressing
table. Raking it through the tangled mass, she hurriedly braided the length of
it into one long rope down her back.
Chuckling softly as Maeglir nuzzled his chest, Thranduil hugged him as he
reached up to comb his fingers through the long white mane. He knew he sensed
his nervousness and tried to settle him with soft spoken praises taking his
time as he brushed and groomed him before saddling him up. They were not going
to be out long, just a short ride for some much needed fresh air and a little
exercise. Catching sight of her in his peripheral vision, he turned and smiled
warmly as Tauriel approached him.
“I am glad you could join me.” He said quietly as she reached him. “I cannot
ride out alone.” He added apologetically as she glanced toward the guards who
pulled themselves up onto their mounts and made their way through the wide
double doors.
Quickly pulling himself up into the saddle, he smiled as he reached for her.
“Please?” He added when she hesitated.
Grasping her hand firmly, he gently lifted her to him and positioned her
comfortably in front of him. Wrapping his cloak around her as he nudged Maeglir
forward with a slight motion of his hips. Smiling to himself as he felt her
relax back against him, he slipped his arm around her waist and followed the
guards through the doors heading north.
Closing her eyes, Tauriel breathed in the fresh air. It was safer here as there
were no shelob (spider) nests above the Forest River, the heaviest
concentration seemed to be in the larger area east of the Enchanted River, just
north of the Mirkwood Mountains. Unlike the journey home, he did not hold her
as possessively, yet she felt his ungloved hand absently caressing her hip as
he rested his arm comfortably around her waist. Through the thick veil of her
lashes she watched the guards slowly spread out in the distance to give them
some degree of privacy yet remained close enough to protect them if they were
in any danger.
“Then stop being the king and be yourself.” Galions’ words rang in his ears as
he leaned forward pressing his cheek against her temple. Content at the moment
for the quiet closeness they shared as they wandered farther into the forest.
“Beautiful.” Tauriel sighed as they entered a large glade surrounded by thick
evergreens. The sound of the waterfall was soft and comforting.
“Just west of Amon Lanc there was one like this.” Thranduil said quietly. “When
I was young I used to go there with some friends and swim in the lake beneath
the falls.”
“It must have been a very beautiful place.” She said softly, turning her head
to look up at him.
“It was.” He smiled down at her, placing a soft kiss on her forehead. “When I
think of those times I feel old.” He chuckled, arching his brows slightly.
“You are not old.” She stated, leaning against him. “Age can mean everything
and yet nothing at all.” She said quietly.
“Strange but wise words from one so young.” He told her, dropping the reins
around the saddle horn as he embraced her with both arms beneath the cover of
the cloak. “But then age is not always measured in years.” He added, pressing
his cheek against hers as he used his knees the guide Maeglir passed the falls
and through the evergreens.
Pulling the cloak tighter around them, Tauriel savored every moment with him.
Leaning back against him, she breathed in the scent of him as she gazed out at
the forest. Absently watching as the evergreens faded into tall leafless oaks,
birch and elm trees of winter, she wondered what life was like when the Sindar
first came to what was then called Greenwood the Great. She felt a deep sadness
for him, to have lived so long to see his beloved Woodland Ream darkened by the
taint of evil.
Relaxing his arms around her as he let Maeglir wander where ever he chose,
Thranduil found her hands within the folds of the cloak. Toying with her
fingers and tracing teasing patterns over her palms, he found himself rambling
about the forest he remembered long ago. Pointing out the various shrubs and
the remnants of trailing vines by name, describing them when they would be in
full bloom in the spring. He told her about the clearing work being done in the
other parts of the forest by the woodsmen.
“Will you dine with me tonight?” Thranduil asked quietly, kissing her temple as
they neared the stable gate at the rear of the palace.
“I think I would like that.” Tauriel replied quietly, turning to smile up at
him as she squeezed his hands under the cover of the cloak.
Leaning down, he playfully rubbed his nose against hers as he slipped his arms
tighter around her. Frowning inwardly as the huge doors came into view, he knew
their time together had ended for the time being. There were things that needed
to be discussed between them before he allowed it to go any farther between
them.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
“You sent for me?” Galion asked curiously as he entered Thranduils’ private
study.
“Yes, I did.” Thranduil stated, smiling as he looked up from the papers strewn
over his desk. “Close the door please." He added, pushing himself to his feet.
“I wanted to properly thank you for your advice.” He continued, a mischievous
smile curing his lips as he stepped around his desk.
“I take it you actually listened to something I said for once.” Galion laughed
as he closed the door and turned to face him.
“Thran...”
Caught off guard by the strong embrace as Thranduil captured his mouth in a
long searching kiss, he forced himself to relax against him. Struggling for
breath beneath the onslaught of the hungry mouth that now possessed his own, he
clung to the taller body for support as Thranduil ravished his mouth for long
moments.
“What advice did I give you?” He asked breathlessly as Thranduil released his
mouth yet still held him tightly in his embrace.
“Tauriel has agreed to dine with me tonight.” He stated as he leaned back to
smile down at him.
“Wonderful!” Galion replied as Thranduil released him and walked back to his
chair behind his desk. “So, your little outing this morning went well I
presume?” He asked as he plopped into the comfortable chair in front of the
desk.
“Well, we did not fight and she did not curse me!” Thranduil laughed as he
leaned back in his chair. “It was very enjoyable.” He added in a softer voice
yet his eyes danced with a light of their own.
“So why do I sense there is more?” Galion asked, pinioning him with a frown as
he curled his legs up under him in the chair.
“I intend to be completely honest with her.” He stated with a heavy sigh as he
met Galions’ gaze evenly. “About everything.”
“Everything?” Galion asked, raising his brow at him. “Are you sure you want to
do that?”
“I have wronged her enough already.” Thranduil said, his voice thick with guilt
as he laid his head back, staring at the ceiling. “You are right. She deserves
better than what I have done to her since I forced her to return. I can only
hope that she does not reject me completely out of hand.” He said quietly as he
returned his gaze to his friend.
“You are telling me this I suppose because it include us?” He asked studying
him.
“I will not if you do not wish it.” Thranduil said thoughtfully, returning the
same scrutinizing gaze. “But I have no intentions of giving you up.”
“I see.” Galion said quietly, his expression turning inward for a few moments.
“It’s no secret that my preferences are for ellyn. (male elf) My concern is for
you.” He stated after long moments.
“I do not want anything to change between us.” He told him as he got up from
behind his desk, moving toward the small wine cupboard. “She will need time.”
He sighed as he poured them both a small goblet of wine. “If it is something
she cannot accept, it is better that she know now than to cause her more pain
later.” He said as he handed him one of the goblets.
“Yes.” Galion sighed, accepting the goblet. “Not telling her could make her
feel as if you have betrayed her, especially if she should hear from someone
else.”
“I have never flaunted my private matters.” Thranduil stated as he sank back
down into his chair. “Still I am very aware that there are eyes and ears
everywhere no matter how careful one is about such matters.”
“I think it would be more comfortable for her if things are simple tonight.”
Thranduil stated when the silence in the room stretched uncomfortably.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Sensing a great anger and pain within him, Lenwë was quiet as he studied the
young prince of Mirkwood. The differences between the two were striking to say
the least as Lenwë thought back on the day when his father had first visited as
an exile in Lórinand. Unfortunately his state of mind brought out far more of
his grandfathers’ traits than those of his father, particularly Thranduils’
mastery of the art of diplomacy in such situations.
“I do not understand why everything surrounding my father is cloaked in such
secrecy.” Legolas stated, a small muscle in his jaw extending slightly as he
spoke.
“It is not about being secretive.” Lenwë told him quietly. “Lórinand has always
been known as a place of solitude for those who seek it and it is given.”
“Tauriel came here searching for that.” Legolas stated, his gaze flickering
angrily about the room as if he searched for his words. “Yet he came here and
he forced her to return with him. Who was helping her?” He asked, finally
turning his eyes toward the Lord of the Vale.
“Your father is very private.” Lenwë said as a frown creased his normally
smooth brow. “Even if I were one to share the business of others, in this
matter I cannot help you as he did not discuss it with me. Certainly you must
know that your fathers’ reach outside of Mirkwood is long indeed.”
“I am beginning to understand this.” Legolas said quietly, his gaze once more
shifting about the room before coming to rest on the flames on the hearth.
“You are more than welcome to stay here if you would like.” Lenwë informed him
as he rose to his feet. “I will have Tíránist show you to a room or you may
follow the path to the inn within Lórinand.”
“How far is it?” Legolas asked, pushing himself up from the comfort of the
chair.
“Not far.” Lenwë replied. “But I will warn you now young prince. The more
questions you ask, the less answers you will get.”
“Thank you for your hospitality and your council.” Legolas stated, nodding
respectfully to the lord. “If you do not mind, I will go on to Lórinand.”
“Tíránist.” Lenwë called out quietly but clearly once the young prince has
departed.
“My lord?” Tíránist answered quickly, stepping just inside the sitting room.
“Take a horse from the stable and go quickly by the way of the edge of the
forest to the Lady Gilaiwë. Tell her that the Prince of Mirkwood has arrived.”
Lenwë informed him.
“Thranduil, I hope you know what you are doing.” He sighed to himself, sinking
back down in the chair as the servant departed to deliver the message.
Chapter End Notes
     Thank you for reading!!
***** Trouble in Paradise *****
Chapter Summary
     Thranduil keeps his word to Galion about speaking the truth to
     Tauriel, yet he does not name who his other partners are. His best-
     laid plans have now created a wide divide between them as Tauriel
     retreats from him. Will he be able to win her back? Will he try?
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
Standing back, Thranduil surveyed the sitting area before the enormous hearth
in his public room. He wanted everything to be perfect for what he knew could
possibly be the first and the last time he shared private moments with Tauriel.
He had only made a few changes. The long multicolored braided rug that normally
lay in front of the hearth had been replaced with thick furs to make it more
comfortable for sitting. He had also brought out a few large pillows that were
soft yet sturdy enough to lean against. Satisfied that it would suit his
purposes for the evening, he made his way into his bath chamber to get ready.
Smiling to himself as he stripped down and climbed into the long deep copper
tub, he let his thoughts wander to his outing with Tauriel that morning.
Although the forest was undeniably more beautiful in the warmer months, he
enjoyed the privacy his winter cloak had provided for his roaming hands.
Slathering himself with the scented soap, his smile turned mischievous as he
thought of the possibility of future outings where he could be a little bolder
with his roaming fingers.
Even as he daydreamed of such things, there was the ever present knot in his
stomach that she may reject him. While she seemed more than enamored with him
at the moment, elleth’s (elf maiden) were more often less willing to accept or
excuse certain indiscretions. The bond between himself and Galion was strong,
he had been his friend, confidante and lover for over three millennia and he
was not willing to give him up.
He knew too that she still had feelings for Legolas and while it was true, he
had been cruel to tell her that she was not the only elleth (elf maiden) that
had appreciated the intimate comforts from his son. These were things she would
need to work out on her own and in her own way. He felt a deep sadness for her
at the loss of the dwarf. Yet in some ways he felt the finality of his death
would be easier for her find a place in her heart to keep his memory than it
will be with her feelings for his son.
Lifting himself from the still steaming water, he quickly toweled himself dry
before heading into his bed chamber. Throwing open the doors of the tall oaken
wardrobes that lined the far wall, he stood back mostly to survey the colors.
Long flowing robes were too formal for the ambiance he wanted to create for the
evening. He favored the deep forest green yet it would not do for what he
wanted tonight. Rummaging through his hip length tunics, he found a long
sleeved pale green silk that he thought would be best. It was one that buttoned
up the front without the customary band collar as most of his tunics. Slipping
it on as he walked to his bureau, he sorted through the drawers until he found
the soft black silk leggings he wanted.
Dressing quickly, he examined himself in the tall silvered glass on the wall as
he brushed out his long tresses. Laying the brush back on his dressing table,
he decided the tunic would look better tucked into the leggings, accenting his
sender hips and broad shoulders. Pulling on the soft boots he preferred when he
was in his personal chambers, he inspected himself one last time in the
silvered glass. Smiling, he reached up and unbuttoned the top three buttons,
exposing a little more of his chest.
“It is what it is.” He said to himself as he turned toward his dressing table,
pausing for a moment he decided against the circlet.
Satisfied with himself, he walked out of the bed chamber and went straight to
the wine cupboard in the far corner of his pubic sitting room. Choosing a small
goblet, he filled it and took a long drink to steady himself. Refilling the
goblet, he collected the carafe as well as a second goblet and carried them to
the low table between the tall wing backed chairs in front of the hearth.
Turning toward the flames, he let his thoughts wander as he waited for Galion.
Watching the flames dance along the logs, he thought of the other elleth’s (elf
maiden) from whom he had sought comfort over the long years since Athëálÿssíä
had abandoned him and their son. There had been many brief encounters and short
lived relationships, with Gilaiwë the only constant in his life. He had for the
most part sought his intimate comforts from Galion with only a few other
ellyn’s (male elf) over the years during his visits to Lórinand and Imladris.
Yet he knew that even if she accepted that part of him, there was still his
oath to the crown that he could not break or even bend. Until the throne was
secured by the legitimate birth of a Sindar heir, he was forbidden by decree to
marry anyone other than a Sindar. Having suffered through the pain and
heartbreak of a forced arranged marriage, he had promised himself he would not
do that to his only child.
Startled from his heavy thoughts, Thranduil almost chuckled as Galion entered,
chattering away as usual. Turning toward him, he shook his head as he watched
him carry the heavily laden tray to the table on the far side of the room.
“As usual you bring a feast.” He chided him with a smile, clasping his shoulder
as he walked up behind him.
“Well, I know what you prefer. I have no idea about her.” Galion stated rather
defensively as he narrowed his eyes at him. “So I brought some of almost
everything.”
“It’s fine Galion.” He laughed as he leaned down, kissing him on the top of his
head. “Did you give her my message?” He asked, picking up a few of the nuts as
Galion began setting the various bowls and plates on the table.
“Yes, I did.” He shook his head and rolled his eyes at him. “She was quite
relieved I must say.” He added setting the tray aside as he went to the small
cupboard to collect two plates. “Should I bother with the tea pot?” He asked,
turning to look up at him.
“Go ahead.” Thranduil replied, grinning at him as he noted Galions’ not so
subtle glance at his goblet.
Grabbing a handful of the nuts as he went to fetch the water for the teapot,
Thranduil smiled to himself and walked back toward the hearth. Most of the logs
had now caught fire and cast a warm glow about the room. He could feel his
nervousness rising in the pit of his stomach as he stood there watching the
flames. He could not remember a time when he felt the need to put so much
effort into trying to impress anyone, particularly someone he was intimately
interested in. Having grown up being treated more like his own child, Tauriel
did not have the awe of his position as did others.
“Well.” Galion stated as he turned away from hanging the teapot near the
flames. “Everything is set, so I will leave you now.” He said as he touched
Thranduils’ arm. “All you have to do is be yourself.”
“That is not as easy as it sounds.” Thranduil sighed, but smiled at him. “I
have been a king far longer than I have been myself.”
Nodding, Galion simply patted his arm as he turned and walked away from him,
leaving him to his own thoughts.
The minutes seemed drag by yet the time seemed to disappear as he heard the
soft knock at his door. Setting the goblet on the mantel piece, Thranduil
walked calmly toward it.
“Come in.” He said quietly as he opened the door for her. His gaze trailed
quickly over the deep blue dress that draped her body and complemented her
perfectly.
“I hope you are hungry.” He told her as he led her further into the room.
“Galion always brings more than anyone could eat and tonight it is worse
because he was not sure what you would like.”
Tauriel glanced around the sprawling room, all of it brought back so many fond
memories of her childhood. Her gaze rested for a moment on the tall wing backed
chairs in front of the enormous hearth. She had spent many nights there in his
lap as he read her stories, always giving in when she would beg him for just
one more. She would fall asleep in the comfort of his arms and he would carry
her to her own room and put her to bed himself.
“I’m sure I will find plenty to eat.” She laughed softly, turning her attention
back to him as her stomach twisted in knots.
“I thought it would be nice if we sit by the fire.” He said quietly as he
slipped his arm loosely around her, resting his hand gently on her hip as he
guided her toward the table.
Tauriel struggled with the myriad of strange feelings that washed over her. He
was her king yet in many ways he was so much more than that to her. It had been
so easy all those years ago to put him up on that tall pedestal, so high that
she could not reach him. Content to admire him from afar, she had felt safe.
Somehow he had managed to climb down from that tall pedestal, reawakening all
those feelings she had thought were long buried.
“You have no right!” Her heart screamed at him even as she smiled up at him.
Gone were the stately robes of his position, he wore no crown or circlet as he
stood there before her now. This was a side of him she had not seen since she
was a child and she found him even more beautiful as she looked up into the
softness that seemed to shine from the depths of those sapphire pools.
“Everything looks wonderful.” She said as she picked up one of the plates.
Curiously paying attention to his choices of nothing but fruit, vegetables,
cheese, nuts and sweet bread. Making a mental note that he avoided both the
fish and the meat, even though there was still plenty of room on his plate.
Frowning inwardly, he watched her as they walked toward the hearth. Perplexed
by her unusual silence, he struggled to find the words to help her relax and
make normal conversation. He felt the tension in his stomach tighten as they
sat their plates on the table and made themselves comfortable on the furs.
“I have always loved this room.” She said quietly as she lifted the folds of
her dress, sinking down onto the soft furs. “It reminds me of the forest.”
“Oh?!” He exclaimed, relief spreading over his face as the silence broke
between them.
“Yes.” She laughed at the expression on his face. “It’s filled with the colors
of all the seasons in the forest. The different shades of green and the all the
colors of autumn.”
“I never really thought about it.” He chuckled, picking up a piece of cheese as
he watched her.
“I find it comforting.” She smiled, more than aware of the way he looked at
her.
Although she sensed his discomfort, she met his gaze evenly as she continued to
talk about her love of the forest. Avoiding the topic of her former position as
a captain in the patrols, she watched him as she drew him into the conversation
with questions about his knowledge of the trees, flora and animals of the
forest. Slowly guiding the topic to their outing that morning and the
Länciföliûm flower left in her room.
“I am sorry.” He said quietly, feeling the heat of his embarrassment creep into
his face as he looked away from her for a moment.
“What do you have to be sorry for?” She asked as she reached over, clasping his
hand firmly.
“I have much to be sorry for.” He sighed as he reached for the carafe of wine
on the table. “I have wronged you.” He said quietly as he filled both goblets.
“You have done so such thing!” She exclaimed, her heart ached at the agony she
saw on his face and in his eyes as he turned to look at her.
“Tauriel.” He groaned as he pulled her into his arms, hugging her tightly. “It
was selfish of me and I had no right to force you to come back here.”
“Thranduil...” She began as she pulled away from him.
“Listen to me Tauriel.” He interrupted her firmly. “I told you we needed to
talk and there is no easy way to say what needs to be said.”
It was only the pain she saw in his eyes that silenced her as they stared at
each other for long moments, a pain and tension that etched itself into his
beautiful face like a web.
“I cannot lie to you.” He said finally, breaking the heavy silence between
them. “I do not deny that I desire you.” He continued, his tone as strained as
the expression on his face. “But I will not deceive you.”
“How do you deceive me?!” She stated more than asked, her tone sharper than she
intended.
“Come here.” He smiled, seeing the familiar fire rise in her eyes, giving him a
strange kind of comfort as he shifted her to lay her back against his chest.
“I care deeply for you but I cannot give you what you deserve.” He said,
tightening his arms around her as he leaned down to press his cheek against her
temple. “It was not my intention to hurt you in denying any pledge my son may
have made to you. It has little to do with your Silvan heritage.” He said
quickly as he took her hand, pressing it to his lips. “By decree, until he
gives me a legitimate heir, neither of us are free to take a wife other than a
Sindar.”
“Legitimate heir?” She asked, her voice was barely above a whisper, staring
into the hearth as she felt her heart breaking.
“My father decreed from the beginning that only a legitimately born Sindar
could ascend to the throne. If anything should happen to Legolas, that
responsibility falls to me.” He told her quietly.
“He knew this?” She asked, instinctively pressing herself tighter against him.
“Yes.” He replied quietly as he cupped her chin, turning her to face him. “I am
sorry.” He whispered as he kissed her forehead.
“For as much as I desire to be with you. You deserve someone who can give
themselves to you completely. Something I cannot do.” He continued when she
remained silent.
“I understand that your first obligation is to the crown.” She said quietly, as
difficult as it was to accept there was a small part of her understood what he
was telling her.
“It has nothing to do with the crown.” He said, stiffening as she jerked free
of him and swung to face him.
“Who is she?” Tauriel asked, her eyes flashed angrily at him.
“She is in Lórinand but he is here.” He admitted as he braced himself, making
no move to avoid or block the blow that stung his face sharply as she slapped
him.
“How dare you!” She hissed as she watched him close his eyes to her and
slightly bow his head away from her. “Look at me damn you!” She demanded, her
heart pounding in her throat.
“Tauriel...”
“No!” She exclaimed, her eyes narrowing as she glared at him. “I don’t want to
know anymore. You have not wronged me.” She continued, her voice thick with
emotion as she fought back the tears. “You have done far worse, you manipulated
me.” She stated as she pushed herself to her feet. “I can see myself out.”
Sighing heavily, Thranduil watched her as she strode purposefully toward the
door. Making no move to stop her, he picked up one of the goblets and drank
deeply from it as he stared into the flames of the hearth. His cheek stung
horribly where she had struck him, but it was the pain in his heart that he
felt the deepest.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Sitting alone at one of the corner tables the young prince of Mirkwood was
unaware of the two Sindar elves who watched him intently from across the large
dining room. His slender fingers wrapped around the mug of ale that he had been
nursing for most of the evening, the plate of food at his elbow was barely
touched. The firm set of his jaw revealed more to his observers than he would
have preferred as his thoughts grew darker and angrier.
“There is too much of his grandfather in him.” Gilaiwë said quietly, her
fingers twirling the stem of her wine glass. “Tóriôn said he has spoken to no
one since he arrived last night.”
“Yes.” Lenwë agreed, his soft gray blue eyes darkened slightly. “He has much
anger in him for his father.”
“It’s never a good thing when two ellyn (male elf) love the same elleth (elf
maiden).” She sighed heavily as she turned to look up at him.
“Love?” He frowned deeply as he turned toward her.
“Thranduil may deny the truth to me with his words but I know him far better
than anyone.” She stated as she turned her attention back to the young prince.
“He claims that he is only Tauriels’ protector, that he feels responsible for
her. For most of her life he has nurtured and watched her grow into a beautiful
young elleth (elf maiden). His heart is not as cold as he would like most to
believe. It does not surprise me that he would fall in love with her.”
“Where one father was too controlling, the other follows his heart.” He said
almost as if to himself.
“Legolas will have to find his own way.” Gilaiwë said as she picked up the wine
glass. “The fate of the heart of Mirkwood now rests in her hands.” She sighed
as she sipped the dry white wine.
Chapter End Notes
     Thanks for reading!
***** Confrontations *****
Chapter Summary
     After an unexpected visit from Galion, Tauriel finds that she has
     much to think about when it comes to Thranduil. Legolas finds the
     courage to confront the one he believes is the cause of his mother
     abandoning him only to learn enough to raise more questions within
     him. Thranduil finds solace in the arms of his childhood friend and
     longtime lover.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
Irritated at the soft but persistent knock at her door, Tauriel slipped the
marker within the pages of the book she had been reading and laid it aside.
“Tauriel?” Came a soft familiar voice of the kings’ personal servant.
“Come in.” She called out as she rose to her feet.
“Galion.” She acknowledged him as soon as he entered. “What brings you here?”
She asked, schooling her expression as she felt her anger rising.
“I was hoping we could have a chance to sit and talk for a bit.” He said
quietly, smiling warmly as he walked toward her.
“I have cinnamon spiced hazel nut tea if you like.” She replied, turning toward
the small cupboard to collect another cup and saucer. “It’s not like I have
anything else to do.” She added, waving her hand toward one of the chairs in
front of the hearth.
“First of all dear.” He said quietly as he stopped her, taking her hands gently
in his own as he smiled warmly at her. “I am here of my own accord. I thought
you might need a friend.”
Tilting her head slightly, Tauriel narrowed her eyes at him as she
instinctively stiffened. The old elf was much respected among the various
circles, nobles included, regardless of the fact that he was considered by most
to be the kings’ eyes and ears within the palace.
“Forgive me if I am a little distrusting under the circumstances.” She stated
as she turned away from him. “Please sit.” She added in a lighter tone as she
continued toward the cupboard.
“Nothing to forgive.” Galion told her, watching her closely as he seated
himself comfortably in the chair. “I have four sisters.” He began as she
returned and collected the teapot from the hearth, filling the cup for him. “I
understand a little more than most.”
“You have never spoken of your family.” She said cautiously as she seated
herself opposite him, eyeing him suspiciously. In truth she had had little
interest or reason to come to know anything about the kings’ personal servant
over the years.
“Most of them still live in the vales just outside of Lórinand.” He commented,
picking up the teacup. “Only my sister Minûiáliën followed me here.” He added
almost absently, deciding that she might be more willing to be open with him if
she felt he was doing the same.
“Is that where the two of you met?” She asked, her curiosity getting the better
of her for the moment. The mention of Lórinand was not lost on her yet she
chose to ignore it.
“Oh no dear.” He chuckled softly, pausing to take a sip of the tea, knowing
exactly who she was referring to. “I lived with him for a time there but I met
him and his father when the Sindar first arrived here. Thranduil was but a
young elfling at that time. I took care of him for the most part, he was not
much older than you were when you became a ward of the king.”
“Where was his mother?” She asked, taking a sip from her own cup, hiding her
slight smile at the thought of Thranduil as a little elfling. Still she studied
him, wondering what purpose he had in visiting her since he had never had any
interest or dealings with her in the past.
“I never met his mother.” He sighed but smiled warmly. “She died before they
left Lindon and Oropher never took another wife.”
“He could not find one among the other Sindar who came with him?” She asked,
her tone was cutting as she was unable to squash the anger that rose again so
quickly in her heart.
“Don’t you think you are being unreasonably selfish?” Galion asked, his
expression hardening as he pinioned her with an angry gaze that matched her
own.
“Excuse me?!” She blurted, nearly spilling her tea. “I’m being selfish?!” Her
eyes narrowed dangerously at him.
“Has he touched you in that way? Forced himself upon you?” Galion asked,
arching a brow at her. “I think not. Yes he is arrogant and I suppose I have
spoiled him beyond measure yes. But I know him well enough to know that he
would never take advantage of anyone in that way, especially you.” He stated
firmly, refusing to back away from her.
“I think you should look deeper if you truly wish to find the answers you
seek.” He continued, taking advantage of the fact that she was too startled to
speak.
“So you think this is my fault?” She asked, staring at him in disbelief.
“Absolutely not!” Galion exclaimed, shaking his head. “It is no one’s fault.
Your pain and your anger have blinded you Tauriel.” He said quietly. “My mother
once told me that a son is a son until he takes a wife, but daughter is a
daughter for life, and you are the daughter he could never have and I do not
believe he thought beyond that when he became so attached to you. I do not know
the extent of his feelings for you as he does not discuss these things with
me.”
“I don’t know Galion.” She said quietly, her hands trembling as she leaned
forward, placing the cup and saucer on the table. “It was a foolish dream.” She
added more firmly as she turned her gaze toward the flames in the hearth. “I am
more than grateful for everything he has done for me and will always love him
as if he were my father. I think I could have shared him with the crown...” Her
voice trailed off as she thought of his other loves.
“But?” Galion pressed, sensing that some of her walls had begun to crack.
“I cannot share his heart. I did not know...” She stated, then stopped herself
as she turned back to face him.
“Tauriel.” Galion sighed, setting the cup and saucer on the table as he rose to
his feet. “He has been alone for most of his life. Both of you must do what you
think is best for yourselves.”
Frowning, a thousand questions filled her mind as she watched him turn and walk
away from her. Tears stung the backs of her eyes as she turned back to the
hearth, her thoughts no longer filled with questions but memories. Shaking
herself from her reverie, she pushed herself up from the chair and paced the
length of the hearth until her hunger pangs reminded her that she had not eaten
anything since she had stormed out of the kings’ chamber last night.
It was late but the dining hall was still considerably full as she entered. The
evening meal served as much as much of a social event to many of the elves, as
they moved from one table to another visiting with each other. Out of habit now
her eyes went to the dais if only to catch a glimpse of him. He was seated in
the middle with Aldalómës’ father, Lord Garävegión to his right and the Lady
Laurefindë to his left with her hand on his arm. His face lit up beautifully as
he smiled warmly at her, his head tiled slightly toward her as he listened with
interest to whatever she was saying to him. Turning away quickly so he would
not see her looking, she scanned the room for a familiar face but found no one.
Most of the patrols would have returned to their post or gathered at the
barracks by this time. Finding an empty seat near the kitchen, she ate her meal
in silence.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Arching a brow at the knock on her door at such a late hour, Gilaiwë glanced
toward Tóriôn as she set her tea cup on the table beside her. He rose at her
nod and left her private parlor in the back of her cottage to answer it.
“I would like to speak with the Lady Gilaiwë.” The visitor stated, she
recognized the dialect and knew it was the young prince from Mirkwood.
“This way please.” Tóriôn stated quietly as he led him through the sitting room
to her private parlor.
Entering the room Legolas was taken aback slightly as his gaze fell on the
small childlike figure seated in front of the hearth. Schooling his expression
as she turned her oval face toward him, long golden tendrils slipped over
shoulder, spilling into her lap. It was only when he looked into the deep blue
eyes that he saw the great age about her.
“I would like to speak to you alone.” He said quietly, his gaze fixed on the
beautiful golden elf before him. Feeling slightly irritated when the dark
haired elf just stood there.
“Welcome Prince Legolas of the Woodland Realm.” She said softly, her voice was
barely above a whisper yet it could be heard clearly throughout the room.
“Would you care for wine or tea?” She asked, her tone and mannerism unchanged
as she openly studied him.
“I am fine thank you.” He replied, still staring at her as she nodded to the
dark haired elf, who immediately took his leave of them.
“Please.” She waved her hand toward the chair opposite her. “What brings you to
my humble abode at such a late hour?” She asked as she leaned back in her
chair.
“I know who you are.” Legolas stated as he seated himself across from her.
“And who am I?” She asked, narrowing her eyes at him. “Your anger makes you
very bold pen neth.” (Young one) She thought to herself with little amusement.
“You are the reason my mother left.” He stated, his eyes flashed slightly
before he could school his expression.
“If it makes you happy to believe that, then so be it.” Gilaiwë said quietly,
turning away from him to pick up her tea cup.
“Then you do not deny it.” He stated as he straightened in the chair, the
muscle in his cheek flexed.
“You will believe whatever satisfies your own purposes.” She stated, her voice
now full, rang clearly throughout the cottage. “I am your fathers’ oldest and
closest friend. I knew his mother before he was even conceived.” She informed
him, guarding her tone as she stared at him. “Oh yes pen neth (little one), you
should fear me.” She added silently as his eyes widened slightly if only for an
instant.
“You will not find the answers you seek here.” She continued, pausing to sip
her tea and let her words sink in.
“Why does everyone protect him?” Legolas asked as he governed his tone. While
he felt no threat from her, a brief glimpse of her power was enough to warn him
not to anger her. “Why does he feel he can just take whatever he wants?”
“Ah, I see.” Gilaiwë said quietly, her voice carried an almost musical
undercurrent of laughter as she smiled at him. “You are in love with this...”
“Tauriel.” He interrupted her. “Her name is Tauriel.” He stated clearly,
lowering his tone slightly yet he continued to hold her gaze.
“Love her or not, you are bound by the same oath as he.” She told him, frowning
slightly as she watched the storm building behind the pale blue eyes that
stared back at her. She felt the war within him, a battle between the part of
him that was his father, but there was also that part of him that was his
grandfather.
“Why does everyone here talk in riddles?!” He exclaimed, shifting uncomfortably
in the chair.
“You do not listen, that is why you do not understand.” Gilaiwë began quietly.
“When we were young, your father and I held little concern for the orthodox
ways of our people. Unfortunately, as we grew older, we began to understand
that duties and responsibilities of a crown outweigh the wants and needs of the
bearer. One day fate may put that crown on your head, until then you must
search within yourself for the strength and the courage to wear it.”
“What about love?” Legolas asked quietly, his eyes now seemed to implore her
for answers.
“Love pays no part in the plans of fate I’m afraid.” She replied absently as
her thoughts turned Thranduils’ last visit.
“Then you do love him.” Legolas stated, staring at her curiously.
“Not the way you think I do.” She told him pointedly. “I am one of your
fathers’ oldest friends and his ally that is all.”
“Then I must apologize for my accusations.” He stated, his shoulders slumping
somewhat. “My father does not speak to me of himself, his past, my mother.” He
sighed, his gaze flickered about the room as if he searched for his words.
“Legolas.” She said quietly, smiling softy as he turned to look at her. “You
must not judge him too harshly. He was younger than you are now when he was
forced upon a throne he did not want and the Thranduil I knew was gone, in his
place stood a king.”
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Shifting his gaze at the slight movement, Thranduil smiled slightly as he
watched Galion enter his bed chamber. Illuminated perfectly in the soft glow of
the flames in the hearth, his gaze flickered over him as he watched him
undress, meeting the soft green eyes as the servant walked toward the bed.
“You always seem to know when I need you most.” Thranduil said softly as he
moved the covers aside and pulled him into a warm embrace, kissing him
tenderly.
Returning the kiss, Galion said nothing as he pressed himself along the length
his body, enjoying the feel of the roaming hands that caressed his back. Taking
his face in his hands, Galion placed soft kisses over his face before capturing
his mouth in a long searching kiss.
Surrendering his mouth to him, Thranduil clung to him as he rolled on top of
him. Sighing softly, he slipped his arms beneath his shoulders, cradling his
head in his hands. Thrusting his tongue deeper, he kissed him hungrily as he
breathed in the familiar scent of him. Here in this room they were not a king
and servant but lovers as they had been for nearly three millennia.
Releasing his mouth, he nipped playfully at his chin as he trailed his kisses
to the softer flesh of his neck. Burying his face against the warmth, Thranduil
enjoyed the feel of his squirming body beneath him as he kissed the sensitive
spot just below his ear. Smiling to himself as he felt his fingers tangle
themselves in his hair, pressing his mouth tighter against him.
“Tonight I am hungry.” He said quietly, pulling back slightly. Smiling almost
wickedly as he admired the perfect balance of beauty and masculinity of
Galions’ face. His soft moss green eyes looked back at him through half closed
lids framed in long dark sooty lashes. Dropping his gaze to the slightly parted
lips, he felt a subtle twitch in his groin as Galion ran the tip of his tongue
teasingly across his upper lip.
Chuckling softly, Thranduil moved down, placing soft kisses over his chest,
tracing the tip of his tongue along the warm skin toward his taut stomach.
Listening to his soft moans, he sought out all of the sensitive places that he
knew so well as he continued to move lower. Raking his nails gently down his
sides as he settled himself between his thighs, he ignored his swollen sex as
he sought the tender spot just below the hollow at his hip.
“Thranduil!” Galion choked as his thighs instinctively tried to close against
the overwhelming surge of pleasure washed over him.
Ignoring him, Thranduil smiled to himself as he gently pushed his knees farther
apart, kissing the trembling flesh of his inner thigh. Grasping his hips to
hold him still, he slowly trailed his lips upward, tasting the sweet nectar of
his arousal with a flick of his tongue. Taking him in his mouth, he slowly
swallowed the length of him as he buried his face against the warmth of his
groin.
Trembling as the warm sheath of his mouth engulfed him, Galion struggled for
control of his body. He felt his passion boiling deep within him as Thranduils’
gentle suckling slowly grew in earnest. Groaning softly, he knew it was a
futile effort as his hips rocked forward of their own volition. Stiffly, his
fingertips caressed Thranduils’ cheeks as the tension continued to build almost
painfully within him. Crying out through clenched teeth, Galion drove himself
into the deliciously torturous mouth as his release spewed forth. Trembling, he
closed his thighs against him as Thranduil continued to suckle him gently,
pulling the last dregs from him.
Moving upward as Galion finally relaxed, Thranduil slipped one arm beneath him.
Kissing him tenderly, he was content for the moment to hold him and touch him.
Nuzzling his neck with soft kisses, he drew the tips of his fingers teasingly
along the flesh of his hip, caressing him lovingly as he savored the feel of
his still trembling body beneath him.
“I am in no hurry.” He chuckled softly as he grasped Galions’ wrist, pulling
his hand away from his own aching sex. Capturing his mouth before he could
protest, Thranduil kissed him deeply as he shifted his body slightly over him.
Willing his body to relax, Thranduil ran his fingers through his silken
chestnut hair as he kissed his forehead. Smiling to himself, he placed soft
kisses over his face as memories of their many long years together flittered
through his thoughts. Galion had been the one constant in his life from the
beginning, understanding him like few others could.
Untangling himself from him, Thranduil pushed himself to his knees as he
reached for the small tin of herbal salve he kept in a carved box in the
headboard. Grasping the shelf for support, his breath caught in his throat as
he felt the warmth of Galions’ lips close around the crown of his sex. A soft
moan escaped his lips as he felt his tongue flicker teasingly over the surface,
sending shivers through him.
“Not so soon.” He told him as he pulled free of him and collected the tin.
Scooping an ample amount with his finger he lowered himself back onto the bed,
settling between his thighs. Meeting his gaze, he smiled as he reached down,
spreading it over the tight wrinkled muscle, teasing him for long moments
before entering him. Quickly finding the tiny spot that would bring him
pleasure, he moved his fingertip in a circular motion, massaging it gently as
he watched him. Patiently, inserting a second then finally a third finger, he
gently prepared him to accept him.
Rolling onto his stomach as the fingers slipped free of him, Galion braced
himself as he moved over him. Relaxing, he felt him use his knee to spread his
thighs, positioning him as he lowered himself onto him. Soft groans mingled
with whimpers escaped his lips as Thranduil wrapped his arms around him and
entered him in one slow thrust.
Pressing his cheek against the top of his head, Thranduil closed his eyes,
savoring the feel of the tight warm sheath as he gently rocked against him.
Taking him in long easy thrusts, he listened to the soft moans as he leaned
down, kissing his cheek. Slowly as the pressure built within him, he held
tighter to him, whispering soft love words in his ear. Stiffening as he felt
the tension suddenly break within him, his breath came in ragged gasps as he
thrust harder into him. Collapsing against him as the weakness of his release
washed over him, he held onto him as waited for it to pass.
Turning to face him as Thranduil pulled the covers over them and wrapped his
arms around him, Galion kissed him softly and snuggled against him.
Chapter End Notes
     The story begins to deepen a little as more and more pieces of
     Thranduils' past comes to light!!
     Thanks for reading!!
***** Unexpected Visitors *****
Chapter Summary
     As the Winter Solstice Celebration approaches in the Woodland Realm,
     Thranduil finds himself far less festive as he would have preferred
     with the unannounced arrival of his son. Tauriel finds herself caught
     between the two people that mean the most to her. Unexpected visitors
     create turmoil within her, forcing her to choose one only to lose the
     other forever.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
Feeling overly stifled within the confines of her rooms, Tauriel longed for the
freedom of the forest where she could run, feel the wind in her face and listen
to the many voices of the rivers, streams and the animals that lived there.
Wandering aimlessly through the familiar labyrinth of corridors in the lower
levels of the palace, she struggled with myriad of feelings and unanswered
questions that plagued her.
A soft smile touched her lips as she thought of Kili, with his happy smiling
face and bright eyes so full of hope. She no longer felt pain with his memory,
there was only the deep sadness of what might have been. She knew the sadness
would also fade in time and she would be able to remember him with fondness.
There was still so much pain in her heart when she thought of Legolas,
abandoning her without even saying goodbye after what they had been to each
other. Her pain was overshadowed by her anger at having been betrayed by him
where the king had at least been forthright with her.
“Really Laûrläéthëe, you should have let me know you were coming.” Thranduil
stated softly, his voice echoing in the spacious chamber. “I would have sent an
escort to ensure your safety.” He continued, the disapproval in his tone was
clear.
Ducking quickly into the shadows, Tauriel felt her heart leap into her throat
at the sound of his voice. Pressing even tighter against the stone wall, she
watched them as they came into view in the meditation room below.
“Thranduil please.” Laûrläéthëe stated, her frustration as evident as his
disapproval. “The last thing I wanted was for naneth nîn (My mother) or you to
worry about me. Lord Fládëithnôr took care of everything.”
“It is my responsibility to worry about you.” He stated, bringing her hands to
his lips briefly. “Your naneth (Mother) would have a piece of my hide should
anything happen to you.”
“Don’t be silly!” Laûrläéthëe laughed as she squeezed his hands. “Naneth
(Mother) knows how stubborn I can be and she absolutely adores you.”
Turning quickly, Tauriel struggled against the threat of tears as she fled
through the corridors toward the safety of her rooms. Forcing a smile and a nod
to each passersby, she had not realized how far she had wandered while lost on
her thoughts. It seemed as if it took forever before the door of her rooms
loomed before her. Entering quickly, she nearly slammed it closed and leaned
heavily against it.
Blinking at the tears that stung the backs of her eyes, the image of them and
familiarity they seemed to share renewed her anger at him. She didn’t know who
this Laûrläéthëe was, only that she was beautiful and Sindar. Thranduils’
reaction to not being informed of her visit made it obvious to her that she was
of noble birth or at least important enough to warrant a royal escort. She
found his comments about her mother rather disconcerting to say the least,
causing her to wonder from where she had traveled for him to be so concerned
about angering her.
Hugging herself as if she were cold, she walked slowly toward the yawning dark
mouth of the hearth. It was too early for the servants to be making their way
through the inhabited rooms to light the fires. Collecting the flint from the
mantel, she knelt before the hearth and set about the task of lighting it
herself. The evening meal was at least an hour away, but she knew she would not
be going there tonight. There were enough dried fruits and nuts in her small
cupboard to sustain her for a few nights she and could get more from the
kitchen if she needed. Hanging the small teapot on the hook near the flames and
walked over to the comfortable chair. Sinking into it, she tucked her legs
beneath her and watched the tiny flames.
It had only been two days since she had spoken to him and there had no word
from him. She was still not totally convinced that he had not sent Galion to
speak with her although he denied it. She had seen him only during meals in the
dining hall, watching him with downcast eyes from beneath the veil of her
lashes as she pretended to eat her food. It was as if nothing had changed for
him as he sat there in all his glory, smiling and casting glances about the
room yet not once in her direction.
It hurt more than she would admit even to herself that he seemed to be able to
brush her off so easily. He had recalled his personal guard yet had replaced
them with captains from his regular forces, she presumed it was because she was
friends with all of the captains within the forest patrols. Clearly his
intentions were to keep her from fleeing again even though she had no idea
where she would go. Lórinand was at least heavily populated with Wood elves who
were kin to the Silvan elves, she could have been happy there.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
“Ouch!” Ivósaar grunted, grabbing the back of his head as he swung around and
braced himself against the large tree trunk. Scanning the branches above him
there was no signs of webs much less the shelob (spiders) themselves. In fact
there was no sign of anything out there but himself and this was the third time
something had hit him. Whoever was playing tricks on him was going to get it as
soon as he caught them.
“Down here you fool!” An angry voice called out to him.
“Legolas!” He exclaimed as he quickly started down the long rope he had secured
to his watch post earlier that morning. “Hey...”
“Be quiet!” Legolas hissed as Ivósaar got closer to the ground.
“What’s going on?!” Ivósaar asked, quickly scanning the area around them.
“Nothing.” Legolas grumbled as he stepped closer to him. “When do you change
guards?” He asked quietly.
“It shouldn’t be long now, why? When did you come back?!” Ivósaar replied, a
deep frown forming on his brow as he watched the young prince who had been the
commander of the forest patrol until the battle in the shadows of the Lonely
Mountain.
“I need to get in the palace unseen.” Legolas stated as he kept watching the
area for Ivósaars’ replacement or signs of trouble.
“What?! Why?!” Ivósaar exclaimed, staring at him as if he had just grown a
third eye in the middle of his forehead.
“Don’t ask questions!” Legolas hissed, glaring at him. “When you get off meet
me at the pine glade just north of the stable doors. Tell no one you have seen
me.” He told him.
“Okay, I’ll be there.” Ivósaar said and watched as the prince disappeared
quickly into the thick grove of evergreens.
“Why do I not feel good about this?” He asked himself as he climbed back up to
his position within the branches of the tree.
Sprinting north, Legolas was forced to move slower than he would have preferred
as there were a number of watch stands that had been repositioned and they had
increased in his absence. There had also been signs of thinning among the Elm,
Oak, and Birch trees, favored by the shelob (spiders) for building their nests,
which he presumed may have accounted for the relocating of some of the watch
stands. Moving between the clustered stands of evergreens which were thankfully
more prevalent in the northern regions of the forest, he hoped he had managed
to reach the pine glade unnoticed.
Slipping through the narrow space between the waterfall and rocks, he moved
toward the back where he found a rock ledge just wide enough for him to crouch
and wait. Climbing on top of it, he crouched down with his back against the
wall facing the opening in rocks and pulled his cloak tighter around him. He
trusted Ivósaar and knew that if he said he would come that he would be there,
his only concern was that he was not followed.
The time he had spent in Lórinand had been more than frustrating, not only did
he not find the answers he sought, he left with more questions. The only thing
he knew for certain was that Tauriel did not leave of her own choice. He had
much time to think as he traveled north to the Woodland Realm and he wondered
at the alliance between his father and the Lady Gilaiwë. She had been very
protective of him even if they were not lovers, something he was not entirely
convinced was not the case. He realized that both she and the Lord Lenwë were
Vanyar, yet he had not sensed any unnatural powers from him. While all elves
had the ability to manipulate the natural energies of nature, there were those
of old who seemed to have the ability to reach deeper into the forces of
nature.
“It took you long enough!” Legolas growled as he watched Ivósaar creep
carefully into the cave.
“It’s not my fault!” He exclaimed, scanning the cave. “Träëliôrn was late
getting out there to relieve me. I’m not saying that I won’t help you but first
I need to at least know why you need to sneak into the palace.” He added as
Legolas jumped down from his perch on the ledge.
“If you must know. I need to speak to my father but first I need a good bath
and a nights rest before I deal with him.” Legolas stated as he walked toward
the opening in the rocks. “Now are you going to help me or not?” He asked as he
stopped at the opening and turned to face him.
“Fine, come on.” Ivósaar stated as he followed him. “Have you returned? Are you
staying?” He asked as they set out east toward the palace.
“No.” Legolas stated, casting him a sideways glance. “I intend to leave and I
will take Tauriel with me.”
“Good luck with that!” Ivósaar exclaimed, shaking his head.
“Why?!” Legolas demanded, grabbing his arm jerking him to a halt as he glared
at him. “What do you know?!”
“The king has her under guard.” Ivósaar replied, wrenching his arm free. “She
is not allowed to leave the palace.”
“Where is he keeping her?!” Legolas demanded, feeling his anger burning in his
gut.
“Look, you need to calm down.” Ivósaar told him, frowning at him, his dark
green eyes bore into the pale blue of the Prince.
“I will not calm down!” Legolas exclaimed. “He has gone too far this time!”
“Legolas, listen to me.” Ivósaar implored him as he grasped his shoulders
firmly, forcing him to look at him. “I know you still have feelings for her.
You are right, you cannot face your father or her with your anger, you know
this!” He exclaimed, staring into the angry eyes that were now clouded like a
brewing storm.
“Most everyone should still be in the dining hall right now.” He continued as
Legolas seemed to have gained some measure of control of himself. “I can get
you in without being seen. You need to rest and gather yourself before you
confront him.”
“Will you show me where she is?” Legolas asked, his shoulders slumping slightly
as he realized his friend was right, there was nothing he could do tonight.
“I don’t have to show you.” Ivósaar said quietly, releasing him. “Her rooms are
in the guest corridor. The last door before you descend to the kings’ private
areas.” He told him, watching as the anger slowly began to rise again.
“Legolas.” He said quietly, still watching him. “I don’t think there is
anything between them. The king has visited her a few times but from I’ve been
told, he is not in there very long and he seems quite angry when he leaves.”
“So why does he keep her here if it is not...” He said quietly but stopped
himself. “We must go. I will speak with my father in the morning when he is in
his study. This concerns him and I, no one else.” He stated more firmly and
turned away from him, heading in the direction of the stable doors.
“You wait outside.” Ivósaar said quietly as the huge stable doors came into
view. “I will go in and distract Faÿláën, he always sends the stable hands to
eat first, so he’s probably still in there.”
Nodding in agreement, Legolas ducked behind a large oak tree as Ivósaar
sprinted toward the doors. Impatiently he scanned the trees, hoping he had not
missed anything, the last thing he needed was to have his father alerted to his
presence before he was ready to talk to him. There had already been harsh words
between them that bothered Legolas for he truly loved him, yet he could not
abide what he was doing to Tauriel. It may be too late for her to take him
back, but he would not leave her as a prisoner in his fathers’ halls.
Moving quickly toward the door, he paused to listen for voices or the sound of
movement within before slipping inside and heading straight for the lesser used
passage through the storage cellar. The lower levels of the fortress were
riddled with a labyrinth of narrow passages and tunnels that lead either up
into the main halls or farther below toward the river as an escape route in the
event the security of the fortress was breeched. Having lived in their fortress
home for his entire life, Legolas knew them all.
Catching sight of the prince as he slipped silently into the passage, Ivósaar
politely excused himself and followed him. Catching up with him, he led the
way, keeping an eye out for anyone still moving about as they neared the mid-
level of the palace where the majority of the personal chambers of the nobles
and honored guests were located.
“Thank you.” Legolas stated quietly, clasping his friends shoulder as they
reached the stairwell that would take him to his chambers. “I will speak you
again before I depart.”
“You better!” Ivósaar exclaimed, still keeping his voice as hushed as possible
before bounding up the few steps to the next level.
Retrieving his key as he waited for his signal, Legolas felt himself tensing
and struggled to suppress his rising anger. Relieved as Ivósaar nodded the
coast was clear, he raced past him and made his way toward his private
chambers. Safely inside the darkened room, he turned the latch and leaned
against the heavy oaken door, expelling the breath he had not realized he had
been holding.
Pausing only long enough to let his eyes adjust to the darkness of the room, he
signed heavily as he dropped his pack in the small alcove near the door.
Removing his cloak, he hung it on a peg as he tried to clear his mind and gain
control of himself. Moving about the large sitting room he lit a few of the
lanterns and set about the task of lighting a fire in the hearth, he felt some
of the tension leave him.
Crouching silently before the hearth as he watched the growing flames leaping
almost playfully along the logs, he allowed his thoughts to turn to her. Guilt
and sadness gripped him as he was forced to accept the fact that he had
abandoned her in her time of need. The dwarf was dead and there was nothing he
could do about it. Tauriel had been his friend first for many years, a sibling
he would never have in truth. Unaware of the soft smile that curled the corners
of his lips, he thought of how she had attached herself to him all those years
ago, following him around like an irritating little sister.
Always with her undaunted childish excitement, wanting to go where ever he went
and do what he was doing. Throwing her little temper tantrums much to his
fathers’ dismay when he would not allow her to accompany him into the forest
with his friends. Looking back now, part of him understood that he shouldered
the blame for his fathers’ attachment to her as she sought him out for comfort
when he officially joined the forest patrol. She was still just an elfling at
the time, a child who clearly felt abandoned by him when he could no longer be
bothered by her clinging ways.
Over the years, seemingly without his notice, Tauriel had grown into a
beautiful young elleth (elf maiden) who caught the attentions of many ellyn
(male elf). Frowning as he gazed into the now brightly burning flames in the
hearth, he wondered when she stopped being that irritating little sister and
became so much more to him. She had excelled with the bow as well as the knife
and was a fearless fighter in defense of the realm. Slowly his admiration and
fondness of her grew into love and yes pride in her skills, he knew she had his
back and he had hers.
He felt his heart skip a few beats as his thoughts turned to that day when
everything changed, the first time he had worked up the courage to steal a kiss
from her. In that single moment, when he felt the tremble in her lips she was
no longer the fearless warrior, she became a something he cherished and needed
to protect from all harm. He was far from being unfamiliar in the ways of
pleasuring of elleth’s, (elf maiden) yet to him Tauriel was special, she was
precious to him. She had stolen his heart the day she had willingly gifted him
with her maidenhood.
Angrily he pushed himself up from the floor and made his way back through his
bed chamber, pausing only to light the hearth before making his way into his
bath chamber. Lifting the lever at the head of the long copper tub, he was more
than thankful for the constant flow of heated water. Summoning servants to
prepare a bath for him would only alert his father to his presence and he was
not yet ready to deal with him.
Chapter End Notes
     Thanks for reading!! I hope you are enjoying this as much as I enjoy
     writing it!
***** Calm Before the Storm *****
Chapter Summary
     As the palace prepares for the Winter Solstice Festival, Legolas
     returns to confront his father. Tauriel finds comfort in an old
     friend as Legolas struggles with the need to convince her of his love
     for her.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
“Galion, you know very well I trust you in these matters for a reason.”
Thranduil sighed heavily as he scratched his name boldly across the bottom of
the request. “You and Alythiyiá have never managed to disappoint me yet.” He
added as he gathered the papers and stacked them neatly before handing them to
him.
“I’m glad you always approve.” Galion stated somewhat flippantly as he accepted
the requests. “I ask for your approval simply as a matter of principle. Not to
mention I would not need to make last minute changes if you saw fit to inform
me of extra guests. You did not seem to feel it necessary to inform me that
Lady Laûrläéthëe safely arrived the other day...”
“That will be all Galion.” Thranduil stated, meeting his gaze briefly before
turning away from him to gather yet another stack of papers that required his
attention.
“Ben iest gîn, hîr vuin.” (As you wish, my lord). Galion stated, stiffening as
he abruptly turned on his heel and departed the kings’ private study.
“Why do you chide him so?” Lord Garävegión chuckled from his comfortable seat
in the corner of the room.
“Because I can.” Thranduil said quietly as he glanced up at him, his sapphire
eyes dancing with amusement. “Besides, if I annoy him enough he will come to my
chambers tonight to scold me and I will have to beg forgiveness by taking him
into my bed.” He added, a slow smile curling his lips as he leaned back in his
chair.
“I will never understand the relationship between the two of you.” Lord
Garävegión sighed, shaking his head. “Never the less, it has survived for many
years and he has been good for you.”
“He is special to me.” Thranduil said quietly, almost thoughtfully as he pushed
himself up from the chair and made his way to the wine cupboard. “I received a
message from Lady Gilaiwë, she will be joining us for the Winter Solstice this
year.” He said as he picked up the wine carafe and turned toward his desk to
refill his goblet.
“And Lenwë?” Lord Garävegión asked, arching a brow.
“He sends his regards but has chosen to remain in Lórinand.” Thranduil stated
as he moved back toward his chair. “It would seem that Amroth has forsaken his
rightful place as heir and he feels that his presence there is needed there
more than here. Unfortunately I am forced to agree with him as I fully
understand his position.” He sighed heavily, his gaze meeting that of his
longtime friend and chief advisor.
“Like Legolas, he has never had a desire to follow in his fathers’ footsteps.”
Lord Garävegión replied, his gaze taking on a faraway look for a moment.
“Yes.” Thranduil sighed, stretching out the word as if reluctant to agree. “I
cannot force him to stay. But it raises a difficult situation I want to discuss
with you.”
Frowning at the kings’ strange expression, Lord Garävegión remained silent as
he leaned forward, studying him. Beyond the many losses during the battle in
the shadow of the Lonely Mountain that had pained the king very much, it was
the absence of his son that had been the most difficult for him to come to
terms with in his mind and more particularly in his heart.
“Years ago I swore I would never force him into a marriage he did not want.”
Thranduil said quietly as he looked down into the dark liquid in his goblet.
“As sweet as the prospect would be to see my halls filled with the laughter of
grandchildren, I would not bring the same pain upon him or any prospective wife
I might choose.”
“Is this something you are now considering?” Lord Garävegión asked curiously.
It was a topic he had brought up in the past and always Thranduil had refused
to even think on the issue.
“Actually.” Thranduil began, turning to study him. “I would feel more
comfortable if we were to completely abandon my fathers’ decree that places a
higher value on a Sindar over any other.”
“I see.” Lord Garävegión smiled. “This would not have anything to do with a
certain young elleth (elf maiden).” He added, his smile broadening as he
watched the stain of a slight blush creep up from beneath the kings’ collar.
“We are all Tawarwaith through our Teleri ancestry. There should be no
preference.” Thranduil stated, ignoring the question as he frowned at him. “I
think it was only my fathers’ experiences in Doriath and his contempt for the
Noldor that inspired him to make such a decree.”
“In the time since your fathers’ death much has changed not just in the world
but here. It grows more difficult to claim a pure line.” Lord Garävegión said
thoughtfully. “It is within your power to dissolve the decree if you so
choose.”
“Why do I feel it will not be that easy?” He arched a brow at his advisor.
“There will those who may disagree...”
“I need to speak with you Father.” Legolas stated as he boldly marched into the
study, the flash of anger that shown within his pale blue eyes belied his calm
but firm tone.
“Leave us.” Thranduil stated as he rose to his feet, meeting his sons’ angry
gaze evenly, his thoughtful expression now replaced with a familiar guarded
mask of indifference.
“Why?” Legolas asked as soon as the door closed behind the advisor, stepping
back slightly as his father walked around his desk.
“It is good to see you too ion nîn (my son).” Thranduil commented, smiling
slightly as he regarded his sons’ angry stance before him.
“I will not play word games with you Father.” Legolas stated, watching his
father lower himself slightly onto the edge of his desk. “You know very well
what I’m talking about.”
“Legolas.” Thranduil sighed, clasping his hands loosely in front of him as he
tilted his head slightly in that knowing way he knew irritated his son. “I know
a great many things.” He said, narrowing his eyes at him in warning. “Perhaps
you should explain yourself. You can start by telling me why you thought it
necessary to sneak into my house like a thief in the night.” He added, arching
a brow at him, enjoying the startled look that passed briefly over his sons’
face.
“But you’re right.” He said, leaning forward slightly. “I know exactly what you
are referring to and my answer is simple. Tauriel is quite valuable to me not
only because she is like a daughter to me, she was a good captain of my
patrols. I felt it was far more advantageous to bring her back than to try to
replace her.” He stated, watching the play of emotions chase themselves within
the depths of his sons’ eyes.
“That does not excuse the fact that you are keeping her a prisoner.” Legolas
stated, feeling his anger twisting in his gut as he recognized his fathers’
defensive stance. Refusing to back down from his fathers’ narrowed gaze. “Why
have you not returned her to the patrols then?”
“She needs time Legolas.” Thranduil said quietly as he folded his arms across
his chest, his gaze remaining unchanged as he studied his son. “She has
suffered much and needs to mourn among her own people.”
“You did not answer my question.” Legolas stated, his fingers flexing in his
anger. “Why are you keeping her as a prisoner?”
“She is not a prisoner.” Thranduil sighed as he turned to pick up his wine
goblet. “She has the same freedoms as anyone else.”
“Then I am taking her with me when I leave in the morning.” Legolas stated far
more calmly than he felt.
“You seem so sure of yourself.” Thranduil said quietly, taking a long drink
from the goblet. “I do not think she will take lightly that you have already
abandoned her once. Now that she knows you have deceived her, do you really
think she will be so willing to go with you?”
“Deceived her?” Legolas asked in shock, truly taken aback by the accusation. “I
have never lied to her!” He stated as he collected himself quickly. “She knows
I spoke the truth when I told her that I loved her!” He exclaimed, feeling his
anger rising once more.
“Nothing happens within this realm that I do not know of it.” Thranduil stated
as he advanced on his son. “I should have intervened when I first became aware
of it. You are reckless ion nîn (my son)! You think I did not know of your
intentions? How you lured her into your many trysts while you were supposed to
be on patrols no less? You knew from the beginning such a union could never be
allowed yet you continued to deceive her to believe otherwise.”
“I will marry her!” Legolas stated angrily. “You cannot stop me.”
“Oh but I can. You are bound by the same decree as am I.” Thranduil stated, his
tone taking on that familiar clear tone of his position. “I have tolerated your
many dalliances over the years as I wanted you to experience life. Yet I had
hoped you would come to your senses and a suitable choice would attract your
attention as I do not wish to burden you with an arranged marriage.”
“You have no right!” Legolas exclaimed as his father approached him. “Damn
you!” He added to himself, hating the way his father always managed to remain
aloof and seemingly untouched by everything around him.
“As your King I have every right.” Thranduil stated as he narrowed his eyes,
returning the same defiant glare so clearly shining from his sons’ eyes. “I
suggest you take care that I do not change my mind.”
Before he realized that he had even moved, Legolas felt the impact against his
knuckles as he struck his father for the first time in his life. Reacting in
both fear and anger, he turned on his heel and quickly left him standing there
holding his face.
“My Lord, is everything alright?” Thalieth asked, watching as the prince strode
purposefully out of the study. “Stop him!” He yelled as he turned to see the
king holding his face as blood trickled freely between his fingers.
“No! Let him go.” Thranduil barked the order quickly. “Find Galion, tell him I
need him.” He said as he straightened to his full height and walked calmly past
him into the antechamber toward his private chambers.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
“I thought I was the only one who preferred solitude during festivals.”
Elvändéruil said quietly as he approached the solitary figure in the solarium.
“I actually love festivals. I’m just not feeling very festive at the moment.”
Tauriel replied, smiling as she turned toward the familiar voice. “I merely
sought refuge from the chaos for a while.”
“You know I’m always here for you.” He told her, taking her hands in his larger
ones. “You have been so sad lately, I worry for you.” His silvery gray eyes
softened as slight crinkles formed at the edges from his smile.
“Oh I’m not sad!” She insisted, squeezing his hands tightly. “It’s just that so
many things seem to be happening so fast, I don’t even know what to think
anymore.” She reluctantly admitted.
The youngest son of one of the kings’ council members Elvändéruil was his
mother’s favorite and was given much more freedom to live a simpler life than
his siblings. Although he was much older than herself, he had been one of her
dearest friends during her youth, someone she could always rely on to be there
to listen when she needed someone to talk to. It was not in the way of a lover,
yet she loved him deeply as a friend and a confidant, he knew all of her
secrets.
Smiling up at his concerned face, she wondered just when the rift between them
happened. He was different than most Sindar and certainly unlike any of the
nobles she knew of the kings’ court. She had always envied his long black
tresses and the fact that he hated ornamental braids, always wearing it loose,
to hang freely down his back and his soft caring eyes. There had been many
elleth (elf maiden) that had sought his attentions, yet he chose to remain
alone. In contrast to his strong masculine aura, there was a great gentleness
about him. He had a unique ability to sincerely empathize and almost understand
her feelings even in personal things that most ellyn (male elf) viewed as
nothing more than elleth (Elf maiden) silliness endeared him to her.
“I’m sorry that I have not taken the time to seek you out until now.”
Elvändéruil said quietly as he studied her. “I thought perhaps you needed time
to deal with certain things in your own way. But you seem to have shut everyone
out, even me.”
“Oh no! I could never do that to you!” She exclaimed as she raised up on her
tiptoes to wrap her arms around his neck in a fierce hug. “I’m sorry I made you
felt that way!” She told him as she pressed her cheek against his chest.
Smiling to himself as he caught sight of the slight figure standing in the edge
of the shadows in the doorway, Elvändéruil wrapped his arms around her waist
and pulled her closer to him. He knew she would not resist his embrace as it
was given in comfort, seeking nothing from her save the spirit of their
friendship. He had never favored her relationship with Legolas and had tried to
dissuade her. Unfortunately she had become so enchanted by him, his warnings
had fallen on deaf ears.
“Save a dance for me at the festival and I will forgive you.” He teased, taking
her hand as she released him. “You do plan to attend don’t you?” He asked as he
led her toward a nearby stone bench.
“I haven’t even thought about court.” Tauriel sighed as she leaned against him,
appreciating the comfort of his embrace once again. “In the past I rarely
attended the kings’ court during festivals because of my duties.” It wasn’t
exactly true and she knew it. The king had always made sure she was free to
attend yet she would volunteer to replace anyone who truly wished to attend.
“Tauriel.” He said softy as he took her chin in his hand, turning her face
toward him. “You need time to heal from everything you have been through. For
once in your life will you please just relax and let things happen as they are
meant to.” He implored her as he studied her face.
“I don’t even know what I want anymore.” Tauriel said quietly, her voice
trembling as she stared up at him. “Everything has just been too much.”
“Stop trying to over think everything.” He told her, kissing her forehead
softly. “Just listen to your heart.”
Slipping silently into the deeper shadows, Legolas felt a deep pain in his
heart as he sought the refuge of his private chambers. While there was a part
of him that wanted more than anything to simply leave and get as far away from
his fathers’ halls as possible, a larger part him knew he could not leave her,
not again. The kings’ order that no one was to leave the fortress still stood
and he knew that even if he managed to convince the guards to let him pass, his
father would hear of it. Right now the last person he wanted to see much less
talk to was his father.
“You are reckless ion nîn (my son)!” The truth of his fathers’ words stung
deeply as he thought of his foolishness in using his position to gain the
attentions of any elleth displaying interest in him. Yet only one had managed
to steal his heart as her emerald eyes, her sultry smile and the sweet sound of
her laughter had haunted his dreams.
Escaping into his rooms, he was filled with regret for his earlier actions in
his fathers’ study. He had struck out at him in anger toward himself and it was
unforgivable. All of his life his father had done nothing but show him love and
respect. He had always been open with him when he questioned him, even though
it pained him greatly, he had told him the truth about his mother and why she
had abandoned them.
Moving toward the hearth, he struggled with the torrent of emotions that swept
over him as he set about the task of lighting the logs. Squatting down on the
braided rug, he folded his legs in front of him as he watched the tiny flames
grow as they began lapping at the bottom of the logs.
“You must not judge him too harshly. He was younger than you are now when he
was forced upon a throne he did not want and the Thranduil I knew was gone, in
his place stood a king.” Her words rang in his head as he thought of his
meeting with the Lady Gilaiwë and for the first time he truly felt the weight
of a crown he did not want in a life that was not his own. There was a part of
him that understood that as his father had always held the obligation of duty
above all else, including love.
Against his will the images of her in clinging to Elvändéruils’ neck, the
gentle embrace as he kissed her forehead flashed through his mind, filling him
once more with pain and the fear of losing her. He was well into adulthood and
thoughts of his fathers’ threat to force him into a marriage he did not want
was like a knife in his heart. No, he knew his love for Tauriel was real and he
would not let him force him to a loveless marriage that would doom him to the
same lonely life that his father had endured.
Slowly as his anger began to fade, his thoughts turned not to his fathers’
words but the subtle signs he had missed. Tauriel may no longer be a prisoner,
he had no reason to doubt Träëliôrns’ word that it had been the case upon their
return. Not only did he hold her prisoner, he had used the March Wardens to
guard her, even going so far as to replace them with officers from the elite
forces to shadow her every movement within the palace. The fact that no one had
visited her with the exception of his father, even if he departed from her
rooms in anger it created a nagging feeling that he was holding something back.
It was easy to see how his feelings for her could certainly have been blurred
beyond a fatherly affection. Before the battle in the shadow of the Lonely
Mountain, before the dwarf, before he himself had abandoned her, she had always
been accessible to him, easily within his reach should he desire her. His anger
rose again with the knowledge that he had not deceived her, not entirely. He
had not told her of the oath only that his father would not approve of a
marriage between them.
Chapter End Notes
     Thanks again for reading!! As always, comments are welcome!
     Teleri - The third and largest clan of the Eldar (Elves)
     Tawarwaith - Those Sindar elves that began the Great Journey west
     after the Awakening but chose not to continue the journey across the
     Misty Mountains
     NOTE: I do not subscribe to beta readers and apologize for any
     errors.
***** Reflections of the Heart *****
Chapter Summary
     As the Winter Solstice Festival fast approaches Tauriel rejects
     Legolas and yet searches for answers toward an uncertain future.
     Thranduil struggles with the past as he is forced to realize his love
     for Tauriel and for the son who loves her too. He knows that
     following his heart can lead to only one of them. The darkness facing
     the Woodland Realm can be more real than he thinks as enemies may be
     closer than he realizes.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
Curling herself into the comfortable chair before the hearth, Tauriel held the
small book tightly to her breast as she gazed unseeing into the flames dancing
across the logs. Images, scattered and disconnected from one another flittered
through her thoughts, memories she had tucked away long ago. Old memories yet
new ones still fresh with new pain mingled amongst them, feelings that she
still needed to sort out and find a place in her heart to put them. So many
times she had relived that moment on Raven Hill, staring into Kili’s eyes as
the light faded from them. How her life had changed since that moment, loss and
emptiness had filled her heart. It was time to let him go, to somehow try to
find a way to make peace within herself. He was gone and there was nothing that
could change that.
Laying the book in her lap, her fingers easily found the gap in the pages where
she had tucked the small piece of parchment and the fragile Länciföliûm, now
dried, the tiny yellow blossoms faded to a light brown. There was now only a
faint touch of the soft fragrance yet it still filled her senses as she held it
close to her face. The memory was still vibrant in her thoughts as if it had
been only yesterday that she had felt his strong comforting embrace as they
rode through the forest that chilly morning.
Legolas, she still had feelings for him, they had been so much to each other
for so long, his abandonment hurt deeply. In her heart she understood his pain
yet she was still angry for his betrayal. Theirs was a love that could never be
yet blamed herself as well because somewhere, deep in her heart she had known
that from the beginning yet chose to ignore it.
“Why do I always want what I cannot have?” She asked herself silently as she
closed her eyes, breathing in the soft fragrance of the Länciföliûm.
A soft knock on the door startled her from her reverie, she quickly tucked the
flower back into its safe place between the pages of the book. Frowning at the
late hour, she stared at the door for long moments, hoping whoever it was would
leave her in peace.
“Come.” She reluctantly bade them to enter as the knock grew louder and more
persistent.
“Hîr vuin.” (My Lord) She greeted him, laying the book aside as she rose
quickly to face the Prince.
“Since when do you address me as such?” He asked quietly as he closed the door
behind him.
“Things have changed between us.” She said as she tilted her head downward,
staring at the braided rug in front of the settee, unsure of herself.
“Nothing has changed for me. I have missed you Tauriel.” He told her softly,
his long strides clearing the distance between them quickly. “I have thought of
you day and night.” His tone so soft, it was almost a whisper as he gently
lifted her chin, forcing her to look at him.
Swallowing against the lump that suddenly formed in her throat, she could only
stare up at him. Her gaze flickered over the familiar features of his beautiful
face, though he tried to smile, she could see the pain in the depths of his
pale blue gray eyes where there had once only been love and laughter.
“You must not...” She choked past the growing lump in her throat.
“I must not what?” Legolas interrupted her, pulling her into his arms as she
started to turn away from him. “All I have done these past months is think of
you, of us. I love you Tauriel.”
“Legolas, stop!” Tauriel exclaimed as she wrenched herself free of his embrace
and walked toward the hearth. “I cannot do this.” She said quietly, swallowing
the lump in her throat.
“Why?!” He exclaimed as he moved toward her, clasping her hands tightly in his.
“Nothing has changed.” He stated, struggling to keep his voice from trembling
yet his eyes pleaded with her as they searched her face.
“What does it matter?” She stated more than asked, squeezing his hands as she
searched his face, seeing nothing but the same pain that mirrored her own. “You
knew the king could never allow you to pledge yourself to me.”
“That does not matter.” Legolas told her, bringing her hands to his lips. “I
cannot live a lie, I love you Tauriel. Please, I need you.”
“It’s all been a lie.” She told him softly, not trusting her voice as she
pulled her hands free from his grasp. “It’s just been too much, I need to sort
things out.” She said, turning away from him. “Even so, things cannot go back
to the way they were between us.”
“What do you mean?!” Legolas exclaimed, taking her in his arms as he stepped up
behind her. “We can leave here! We can go anywhere.” He pleaded with her as he
buried his face in her hair.
“Legolas, please.” She said quietly, stiffening as he pulled her against him.
“I would like to be alone now.”
Closing her eyes as he released her, Tauriel stood there in silence for long
moments before she heard the door close behind him. Swallowing back the
persistent lump in her throat as she turned back to the chair in front of the
hearth, her eyes fell on the book. Hastily wiping the tears from her cheeks as
she sank into its comforting embrace, her fingers moved caressingly over the
engraved leather cover as she thought about the treasure hidden within its
pages.
“I do not know what is real and what is not, everything hurts.” She thought
sadly, turning away from the book to watch the flames in the hearth as she
struggled with the conflict between her heart and her mind.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
“You seem awfully deep in thought tonight.” Galion ventured, watching the
strange play of expressions chasing themselves across the kings’ face as he
stared into the hearth.
“Yes.” Thranduil sighed heavily, turning to look at his friend briefly before
turning back to the hearth. “Much to my regret, I feel that Legolas has left me
no choice but to replace him as the patrol commander.”
“I take it he is still determined to leave?” Galion asked as he refilled their
teacups.
“I know nothing of his plans.” Thranduil stated, a slight flash of anger passed
across his face as he glanced quickly toward him. “He has been avoiding me.”
“The incident in your study...”
“Has nothing to do with it.” He interrupted him, shaking his head, it was part
of it, but certainly not the whole of the matter. “I had already been
considering it but I had not made up my mind.
“Laurefindë brought it to my attention after the meeting this morning.” He
continued after long moments, not wanting to talk about his sons’ outburst. “I
agree with her recommendation but still I am reluctant to make changes until
after the Winter Solstice.” He said, frowning into the dark liquid in his
goblet.
“I can think of any number of qualified officers.” Galion commented as he
dipped a little more honey into his teacup.
“Tauriel has been asking to return to the patrols.” Thranduil said quietly as
he pondered the dark liquid in his goblet. “I have not wanted her back out
there. I am either a glutton for punishment or out of my mind.” He sighed as he
lifted the goblet to his lips, taking a long drink.
Thranduil may be foolish in his heart yet in the end Galion knew logic would
get the better of him, especially in matters involving the governing of the
realm. Unlike his natural instincts on the battle field where quick action
meant the difference between life and death, he was more of a thinker than his
father and not known for expressing hasty judgements. A quality some members of
his council members found to be more than a bit disconcerting, particularly
when they wanted something from him.
“What has changed your mind?” Galion asked quietly, even though he was pretty
sure he knew the answer already.
“She needs to work though things in her own way.” He said quietly, his fingers
absently toying with the stem of the goblet as he rested it on the arm of the
chair. “I need to give her the time to do that.”
“You will not be able to keep avoiding her if she accepts the position.” Galion
stated, frowning a little with concern.
“I am not avoiding her.” Thranduil stated defensively, rolling his eyes at him.
“I know Legolas has been following her since his return and is with her as we
speak.” He added as he brought the goblet to his lips, swallowing the last of
it in one long drink.
“I do not wish to antagonize him any further.” He said quietly as he rose to
his feet. “I will deal with this when the time comes. I believe I am ready to
retire for the night.”
“Will you have your morning meal here or go to the dining hall?” Galion asked
as he got up and headed for the tray on the table.
“I think I will go to the dining hall.” He replied absently, not willing to
admit that he had been dining in his rooms to avoid Tauriel.
“Ben iest gîn.” (As you wish). Galion commented, watching the king turn away
from him and make his way toward his bed chamber.
Reluctantly his thoughts turned to her, the feel of her body so close to his
during their brief ride into the forest. The soft scent of her mingled with the
lavender and lilac as he nuzzled close to her. A deep frown creased his brow as
he laid his robes over the arm of the settee at the foot of his bed. She was
the most vexing elleth (elf maiden) he had ever known, the fire within her that
attracted him to her was unpredictable.
“Yes, and you’re going to get burned if you keep stoking it.” Aldalómës’ words
haunted him as he slipped into the comfort of his bed.
Clasping his hands behind his head as he stretched out beneath the covers, he
willed his body to relax as he felt his desire for her building within him.
Staring unseeing at the polished oak of the canopy above, his thoughts turned
toward his son. He knew he should have put an end to their relationship as soon
as he became aware that it had gone beyond more than infatuation. It would have
been easy enough to separate them yet it would have raised questions he was not
prepared to answer, even to himself.
Unaware of the smile that curled his lips, he remembered how upset she had been
when Legolas joined the patrols. Both of them so young, squabbling like
siblings, each vying for his attentions in their own way until Legolas started
going on assignments that would take him farther from the palace and keep him
away longer. They were only fleeting thoughts, things he did not wish to dwell
on at the time yet now he wondered if his son had done so because his feelings
had changed toward her.
Sighing deeply, he frowned as he questioned himself and when his own feelings
toward her had changed. She had grown up so quickly it seemed to him, when he
found himself noticing just how beautiful she had become, the way her gowns
clung seductively to her feminine curves, the way she would look at him
sometimes. He remembered, the feelings she had incited within him as she
shamelessly flirted with him. She had only laughed it off when he questioned
her about it, claiming that she was only practicing on him. Now he was not so
sure, recalling that was also when she had become so adamant about wanting to
join the patrols. It was then that he saw the fire in her as she argued with
him relentlessly over his refusals to sign the requests.
Was he protecting the one he viewed as his daughter or an elleth (elf maiden)
he had fallen in love with? Shaken as the question seemed to answer itself, he
thought again of his son. There had already been so much that had passed
between them as Legolas struggled to find himself in a world he had no control
over. It was a world he knew all too well and would have protected him from it
if he could. Guilt now twisted painfully in his gut as he thought of his
conversation with Garävegión. Was he being selfish, catering to his own
purposes that he only now considered abolishing the hereditary oath to the
crown?
The sleepless night had brought him no answers as he threw the covers back and
pushed himself up from the bed. Making his way to his bathing chamber, he knew
it was not an answer, only the disheartening realization that he had fallen in
love with her. Pausing to look at his reflection in the polished silvered
glass, he knew had it been anyone other than his son who shared the same
feelings, he would have fought for her attentions.
“You are a fool, this cannot lead to anything good.” Again Aldalómës’ words
chided him in his mind as he turned away from the reflection. If he followed
his heart, he would lose his son if he had not already done so.
Dismissing Galion apologetically as he entered with his usual prattle,
Thranduil sighed heavily. Normally he found humor in his friends’ incessant
chatter but he was simply not in the mood for it this morning. Dressing himself
quickly yet with care, he frowned at his reflection before shaking himself into
the present. Pulling on the regal air of his position as if it were a
protective cloak, he quickly departed his private chambers to make his way
toward the dining hall.
Greeted by the more subdued hum of morning conversations, he politely nodded
and smiled his greetings as he strode purposefully toward the dais. Taking his
seat between Lord Garävegión and Lady Laurefindë, noting the absence of his
son, his gaze quickly scanned the myriad of faces in the room for any sign of
her.
Schooling his expression quickly only from years of experience, he smiled
warmly as he turned to Lady Laurefindë. Meeting her knowing gaze evenly, he hid
himself from her as she filled his teacup. A Sindar and Iathrim like himself,
she was tall with silvery golden hair and soft blue eyes that seemed as deep as
the sea itself. The wife of his fathers’ former council member, he had known
her all his life and found it more than unsettling that she could read him so
easily. It was impossible to hide the tension between himself and his son, a
situation he was loath to have been made public as word had spread quickly of
their confrontation in his study.
“The prince departed with the patrols early this morning.” She told him, her
tone much quieter once their morning pleasantries had been exchanged and the
king had been served his meal.
“I cannot say it does not surprise me.” Thranduil sighed as he spread the honey
liberally over a slice of bread. “He is known for devising numerous ways of
staying away from the palace.” He added, decidedly not wanting to openly admit
that it was he himself that his son was avoiding.
“Things do have a way of working themselves out.” She commented, her gaze
searching his face as she smiled at him. “Children will always see the world
differently than their parents.” She added reassuringly, noting his eyes glance
once more toward spacious seating area below them.
“Would that we could always protect them from that which has created those
differences.” He said more to himself than as a reply to her observations. Most
of the young elves crowding the dining hall knew only what they read in books
about battles and the evils that threatened their world.
Skillfully directing their conversation to the more mundane topic of various
palace activities, she watched him in her motherly way. Slowly, in the years
following the war that claimed the lives of his father and her husband, she had
withdrawn from him. There were times such as now when she regretted having done
so. After the fall of Doriath she had travelled with Oropher and her husband to
the east and had known Thranduil as a child. There had once been hope in her
heart that he would have wed her daughter Laûrläéthëe, but it was not to be as
her daughters’ calling was elsewhere.
Listening quietly as she turned their conversation toward the upcoming Winter
Solstice Festival, his thoughts turned to Tauriel. She had continuously
volunteered to go out on patrols rather than join the festivities, yet he said
nothing to her, letting her think he had not noticed. He was happy that
Laûrläéthëe had decided to attend this year, it had been too long since she had
graced his halls for any reason. Absently running the names through his mind
that he had listed on the requests he had signed a fortnight ago for Galion, he
was glad to see that there were quite a few returning for the festivities this
year. Regardless of the tension between them, he was happy that his own son
would also be in attendance. The Winter Solstice marked the New Year for the
elves, in his heart he prayed this was a good sign.
Pretending to absently watch the milling elves in the main dining area, Lord
Garävegión watched as Thranduil rose from his seat. Smiling as he returned the
nod as he purposefully strode across the dais toward the door, he waited a few
moments before meeting Lady Laurefindës’ gaze briefly.
“Would you care to join me for tea?” She asked, pausing as she made her way
toward the door herself.
“I would be delighted.” He chuckled as he laid the napkin over his plate and
rose from her chair.
Clasping his hands loosely behind his back, he smiled and nodded as she talked
of the upcoming festival. The halls were pretty much empty as they made their
way toward her private chambers, as most were either still in the dining hall
or already about their daily tasks. Still, there was no telling how many or
whose ears may be listening, she switched the topic to her daughter as they
continued toward the lower levels of the palace.
“I will bring your tea shortly hiril vuin.” (My lady) Tälileá informed her with
a respectful nod as Laurefindë closed the door behind them. “Hîr vuin.” (My
Lord) She nodded toward Garävegión before turning away from them to check on
the tea.
“We can talk in the parlor.” Laurefindë said quietly, waving her hand toward
the door on the other side of her public sitting room. “Both Tälileá and
Táëglÿn will be leaving shortly.” She told him as they entered the parlor.
“Elvändéruil is out with the patrols this morning, I do not expect to see him
until later this evening.” She continued as they made themselves comfortable at
the small table.
“I notice that he seems to be quite a regular among the patrols lately.”
Garävegión commented as he shifted himself to find a comfortable position in
the overly padded chair.
“Yes.” Laurefindë smiled yet she sighed thoughtfully. “For as much as he
pretends not to care for his duties and responsibilities, his actions tell a
different story. He has been going out there every day for the past few months.
I worry for him, but then I worry for all of them.”
“As do I.” Garävegión sighed yet smiled as Tälileá entered with the tea tray.
“I do like Alythiyiá’s apple spiced tea but I prefer the much stronger flavor
of the cinnamon spiced hazel nut.” Laurefindë commented as Tälileá set out
their cups and filled them.
“I will be fine Tälileá.” She said softly, yet effectively silencing the
servant as she started to speak. “Go on now. Enjoy your morning.”
“Ben iest gîn, hiril vuin.” (As you wish, My Lady) Tälileá replied with a smile
as she nodded and quickly departed the room.
“Do you think Thranduil is serious about the oath?” She asked as she reached
for the honey pot.
“You know him as well if not better than I do.” He stated, pushing the small
pot closer to her. “Just the fact that he mentioned it is enough to know that
it is something he has been thinking of for who knows how long.”
“Well, if history is anything to go by it has been lurking around in his head
for quite some time.” Laurefindë stated as she briskly stirred the honey into
her tea. “It depends on when he actually realized he was in love with her that
it voiced itself to him.”
“You really think he’s in love with her?!” He exclaimed as he stared at her.
“Oh for Eru’s (God’s) sake Garävegión! Look at him, he’s a mess!” She stated,
shaking her head at him. “This business with Legolas only makes everything more
complicated.”
“In truth.” He sighed heavily as he wrapped his slender fingers around the
teacup. “As much as he hoped Legolas would return, I do agree with you. But
there are other things we must be more watchful of. As much as we hate to admit
it, Thranduil does have enemies within his court who will fight against
abolishing the hereditary oath.”
“We will need to keep an eye on Lord Tirithiáël’s sons.” She stated
thoughtfully. “Lord Oviëdó in particular.”
Chapter End Notes
     Thanks again to all of those who are reading this! Sorry for taking
     so long to get this chapter posted. Sometimes my muse goes silent or
     takes me in a direction I don't want the story to go.
***** Truths & Lies *****
Chapter Summary
     Strange encounters on patrol raise concerns that there are more than
     shelob (spiders) that haunt the forest around the palace. Legolas
     expresses to Tauriel his acceptance that things have changed, yet
     still hopes to regain her love. Tauriel remains tormented as she
     struggles to find resolution within herself about her love for
     Thranduil.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
“Check yourselves and gather your arrows.” Lárasarnë stated as he strode
briskly toward a small group of the morning patrol. “We can break here.”
“Are you alright?” He asked, his tone softer as he reached Aûraë.
“I’m fine.” She replied absently rubbing her shoulder. “Since when do shelob
(spiders) set traps?”
“They don’t.” Dûrláën said angrily as he approached them. “Those tracks back
there were not animal either.”
“You think they’re orcs?” Gäérrÿk asked, watching Lárasarnë as he stepped
closer to them.
“I think they were made to look like orc.” Lárasarnë replied, meeting his gaze.
“Orcs rarely walk single file. There’s something or someone else out here.”
“What is it?” Eréndriël asked, her eyes filled with concern as Gäérrÿk walked
back toward her.
“We’re not alone out here, watch yourself.” He told her as he took the fist
full of arrows from her, shoving them back into his quiver.
“That goes for you to fool.” She retorted, frowning at him as they turned away
from the group to find a comfortable place to take their break. “That was a
crazy stunt you pulled back there.” She complained, her eyes narrowing at him.
“He could have picked any group, why this one?” He grumbled as plopped down
beside her and reached in his pack for a couple of the small bread rolls they
brought with them.
“Elvändéruil.” She laughed softly, reaching for her water flask.
“What?” He asked, confusion radiating from his eyes as he handed her one of the
rolls.
“I swear, you ellyn (male elf) pay attention to nothing.” Eréndriël stated, the
laughter in her eyes belied the scorn in her tone. "Legolas knows he’s been
visiting Tauriel. He’s been to her rooms for the last three nights.”
“They have been friends forever.” Gäérrÿk said, rolling his eyes as he shook
his head. “Only you elleth’s (elf maiden) make something out of nothing with
all your silly romantic ideas.”
“I don’t hear you complaining.” She laughed, shoving him playfully with her
shoulder.
“Your mind is divided.” Elvändéruil said quietly as he approached the prince,
some distance away from the others. “You could have been seriously injured or
worse gotten yourself killed back there.” He added, his silvery gray eyes
clashing with the pale blue of the prince.
“I saw it.” Legolas stated, his eyes narrowing only slightly as he watched him
lower himself onto the fallen tree beside him.
“That is not the point.” He said, refusing to be intimidated by the anger he
saw in his gaze. “There were already three archers on it. You endangered not
only yourself but them.”
“Are you questioning my skills?” Legolas stated more than asked as he turned
slightly to face him.
“No.” Elvändéruil replied, schooling his expression to one of indifference.
“Only your state of mind.”
“What do you know of my state of mind?” Legolas retorted, feeling the small
muscle in his cheek begin to twitch as he glared at him.
“I know that stalking her in dark tunnels will get you nowhere.” He said as he
turned away from him to watch the others.
“And what about you?” The prince asked more sharply than he would have
preferred. He was aware of Elvändéruils’ disapproval of the relationship
between himself and Tauriel.
“I am as I have always been.” He stated as he rose to his feet. “Regardless of
what you may think, we are only friends. If you truly intend to win her
affections, stop taking the past for granted.”
“What?!” Legolas blurted as he watched him walk away.
“Let’s move.” Lárasarnë ordered, shaking his head in frustration as he turned
his gaze away from the prince and the lord. “Träëliôrn you’re on point. Ivósaar
and Nînquië take the rear. Everybody else, spread out, stay low.”
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
“Is he in?” Tauriel demanded more than asked of the sentinel as she strode
purposefully across the large foyer at the bottom of the stairs.
The words on the page in front of him blurred as Thranduil heard the sound of
her voice just beyond the door of his public study. Recognizing the tone of her
voice, he braced himself for the now unavoidable confrontation with her.
“Hîr vuin.” (My Lord) Thalieth addressed him quietly as he opened the door.
“Send her in.” He sighed, smiling almost apologetically at the longtime
sentinel as he pushed himself up from his chair and walked around to the front
of his desk.
“Tauriel.” He stated without looking toward her, his tone official and far
calmer than he felt as he lowered himself onto the edge of the front of his
desk. It presented him in a less intimidating light yet allowed him to maintain
the necessary authority of his position.
“My Lord.” She addressed him formally, steeling herself as he smiled softly
toward her.
“Damn you!” Her mind screamed at him as she watched his eyes flicker over her
quickly before meeting her gaze evenly. She felt her anger rising, seeing his
guarded expression of indifference, as if she meant nothing to him.
“Why are you ignoring my requests?” She asked, struggling to control her tone.
“You promised you would consider it.”
“And I am.” Thranduil replied, unaware of the soft smile that curled the
corners of his lips as he admired her beauty. He sensed the struggle within her
as he watched her body stiffen, her eyes flashed like brightly polished
emeralds. For a brief moment he saw the young elleth (elf maiden) who fought
him so adamantly all those years ago for the same reason. The beautiful, fiery
spirit that had secretly stolen his heart without him even realizing it.
“When!” She exclaimed as she clenched her hands into fists, her eyes narrowing
as her chin lifted slightly in defiance. “I am suffocating within these walls!”
“You need to be patient. Have I ever broken a promise to you?” He asked quietly
as he rose and moved toward her.
Stepping back slightly she felt the cushion of the chair against her legs as he
stopped in front of her. Frozen in place as he took her hands in his larger
ones, the tips of his fingers traced teasing patterns over her palms, sending
shivers through her entire body. It felt as if the world around her shifted and
there was only the two of them as she stared up into his face. The brief look
of sadness flickered through his eyes so quickly, she wondered if it had been
nothing more than her imagination.
“No.” She said quietly, not trusting her voice, she squeezed his hands tightly
to make him stop, feeling the warmth from them.
“Don’t so this to me!” Her mind begged him silently as she continued to stare
up at him.
“There are things I need to consider first.” Thranduil stated, releasing her
hands as he regained control over himself.
“Like what?” She could not resist asking as he turned away from her. Her eyes
narrowing as she folded her arms beneath her breasts. “My service should speak
for itself.”
“Yes, and I have considered it.” Thranduil commented thoughtfully, lowering
himself back onto the edge of his desk. “But I also need to consider your state
of mind.” He added as he clasped his hands loosely in front of him.
“My state of mind?! How dare you!” Tauriel blurted, her eyes widening as she
stared at him in disbelief. “There is nothing wrong with my mind! It’s not as
if I’m asking for reinstatement to my former position!” She stated, quickly
collecting herself as she noted the soft smile on his lips.
“You have already fled once.” He stated calmly, tilting his head slightly as he
studied her. “How can I be sure you will not do it again?” He knew he was
taunting her yet it was necessary to get her to drop her guard and speak her
true feelings.
“You banished me remember!” Tauriel exclaimed angrily as she stepped closer to
him, wanting desperately to slap the smirk off his face. “Then you drag me back
here for what?! Just to toy with me as if I were nothing more than one of your
little courtesans! As if I have no feelings of my own!”
“Enough!” Thranduil snapped as he nearly leaped forward, trapping her within
his embrace. “You know better than that!” He exclaimed, burying his face in the
softness of her silken tresses as he hugged her tightly to him.
“Do I?” She asked quietly, tears stinging the backs of her eyes as she turned
her face from the lips that sought her cheek.
“Tauriel...”
“Thranduil, don’t...” She said softly, her voice choked yet she made no move to
pull away from him. “We both know that what we may want can never be.”
“You will not be reinstated to your former position.” Thranduil stated as he
stepped quickly away from her, his tone far more calm than he felt. “I will
inform you of my decision after the Winter Solstice and not before.”
“Ben iest gîn, hîr vuin.” (As you wish, my lord). She stated, her eyes
unreadable as she stared at him for long moments before turning away from him.
Resisting the urge to flee, she strode purposefully out of his study with no
clear destination in mind other than anywhere away from him.
Frustrated, Thranduil went to the wine cupboard, collecting a carafe and a
goblet he carried them with him as he sank heavily into one of the chairs in
front of the hearth. Her words had hurt far more deeply than he would admit
even to himself as he watched the flames lapping at the logs. Long buried yet
never forgotten feelings of resentment burned with renewed anger in his heart
toward his father as he stared into the dark liquid in the goblet. Old grudges
and the foolish bitterness that were not his own still haunted him.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Tracing her fingers absently over the soft leaves of the Dianthus plant, its
tiny buds still hidden deep within the foliage, Tauriel let her thoughts wander
to where they may. There had been so much happen in the past eight months that
whatever she had once thought of as her normal life seemed ages ago. They had
lost so many on the fields of Erebor in the Shadow of the Lonely Mountain.
While she understood the dwarves desire to take back what was theirs, the cost
had been great for all of them, the dwarves, the elves and the people of Lake
Town.
Time had smoothed the jagged edges of some of her own pain yet changed her life
beyond her ability to reconcile with who she had once been. Thranduil, her king
and the only father figure she had ever known had banished her from him and
that pain cut deeply into her fäë (soul) far more than she would ever admit to
him. Yet his change of heart had reawakened those long ago feelings for him
that she thought she had buried too deep to feel them.
The Woodland Realm, like Lórinand had always been Sindar ruled, something that
was simply accepted by both the Silvan and Wood elves, she was unaware King
Oropher had formalized it by decree. A sardonic smile curled her full lips as
her train of thought flowed toward Legolas, who had been a brother to her. Her
familiarity with him coupled with his whimsical view of life, his charm and
wittiness had enchanted her. She knew now the love she felt for the son was not
the same as what she felt for the father.
Her smile softened as she remembered the feelings incited within her as
Thranduil teased her palms with his fingertips, flirting with her in an old
elvish courting custom. Galion was right to accuse her of being selfish in her
feelings as the cruelty of that oath was a pain that went both ways. She did
not know if he loved her, only that he desired her and she wondered if that
would be enough for her.
“Tauriel.” A familiar voice spoke softly next to her.
“Legolas!” She exclaimed, startled as she glanced quickly around the solarium.
“I have something for you.” He said quietly, a soft smile touching his lips as
he brought his hands from behind him, presenting her with a bouquet of bright
yellow Narcissus. “Will you walk with me?” He asked quietly, still smiling
softly at her.
“They are beautiful.” She said quietly as she smiled back, pressing her face
into them. “I’m sorry...”
“You have nothing to be sorry for.” He told her as he touched her elbow, gently
guiding her with him as he turned toward the path that led deeper into the
solarium. “I am not asking for your forgiveness, only the chance to make it up
to you.”
Together they walked in silence just as they had done so many times in the
forest, there had never been a need for words between them. Her thoughts turned
to those times, when just his presence near her was comforting to her. The
smile in his eyes, the soft curl of his lips, and the gentle touch of his
caress had been more than enough for her, or was it.
“Do not give him hope where there is none.” The kings’ words haunted the back
of her mind as she gazed down at the flowers. Narcissus, the first flowers
before spring, meant to remind them of the forests rebirth and new beginnings.
Long ago Legolas had confided in her that in his heart he had felt the call to
other lands, often talking of places he read about in the many books in the
palace library. She knew deep down he loved his father and the forest, yet he
rejected the duty and responsibility of the crown.
“I...” He began quietly, swallowing as he glanced toward her. “I did not
understand and I acted childish. Can we talk in private?” He asked quietly as
he stopped in front of one of the small rooms reserved for solitary meditation.
“Please?” He implored, waving his hand toward the door.
“I need you to know that it was never my intention to mislead you.” He told her
as he closed the door behind them, turning the small lock.
“Legolas...”
“No.” He hushed her quickly, pressing a gentle finger to her lips when she
started to speak. “I need to say this.” He continued as he took her hand and
led her to a small stone bench, pulling her with him as he sat down.
“I know things have changed and I will accept it if that is truly your wish.”
He told her, smiling weakly as he took the flowers from her and laid them on
the floor so he could hold her hands. “I have had much time to think about
things.” He said nervously, pausing as he squeezed her hands, his gaze
flickering about the room as he gathered his thoughts.
“You are right. I knew my father could never allow it.” He said, his tone
turning more serious as he looked down at their hands. “I did not think about
it as he has taken lovers over the years and in my heart I prayed that he would
fall in love with one of them and marry again, have more children and free me
not only from that oath but the crown itself.”
“I have been so blind to so much.” She said quietly, her voice barely above a
whisper as she searched his face, seeing only pain.
“It is not you. Part of me understands him.” He said, almost to himself, his
gaze turning inward as he thought of his conversation with the Lady Gilaiwë.
“He was as I am now when my grandfather fell at the Battle of Dagorlad. I know
he was never the same after that.”
“I do not understand the cruel nature of the fates.” He told her as he brought
her hands to his lips. “When my father told me about my mother and how they
were forced into a marriage that neither of them wanted, I promised myself I
would not live the lonely life that befell him. I will marry only for love. My
children will know the love of both a father and a mother.”
“Yet it would seem that the fates have other plans for me.” He continued as he
pulled her into his arms. “I will always love you Tauriel.” He whispered,
nuzzling her ear softly. “I would have taken you with me to the ends of Arda
(the world) if only to be with you.”
Capturing her mouth as she turned to look at him, he kissed her searchingly as
he felt her lean against him. Clinging to her, his kiss turned hungry as she
surrendered to him. Trembling at the feel of her in his arms again, he savored
the taste her and breathed in the scent of her. Holding her tightly, he pulled
her with him to the thick moss covered floor.
“Amin sinta lle, lle naa vanima?” (Do you know how beautiful you are?) He
whispered, his lips brushing hers as he spoke.
“What does it matter?” She asked herself as Thranduils’ beautiful face loomed
in her thoughts, they were both bound by an ancient oath and sworn to another
yet unknown elleth (elf maiden), never to be hers. The familiar feel of his
soft kiss, his gentle touch awakened the deep longing within her, a need that
had been building with each encounter she had with the king. Her heart ached
for the pain she felt in Legolas, yet she felt it breaking for her own loss of
the only one she knew she would ever love.
Gradually as she surrendered to him, he felt hope rising in his heart matched
only by his growing desire for her. Cradling her in his arms, Legolas slowly
worked loose the tiny buttons down the back of her gown as he kissed her face.
Caressing her cheek softly, he comforted her as he tasted the slight saltiness
of her unshed tears. Frowning inwardly as he trailed his kisses to the warmth
of her neck, he sensed something different about her.
“I need you.” He groaned softly as he kissed her neck just below her ear. “I
have dreamt of this moment for months, to hold you again.” He said, pulling
back slightly to look into her eyes. “If you have found someone...”
“I have been with no one since you.” She said softly as she tangled her fingers
in his hair, pulling his face closer. “Make love to me.” She whispered, teasing
his lips with her own.
Tears stung the backs of her eyes as he pulled the gown from her shoulders, his
lips capturing a tiny nipple as his hand cupped her breast, she had spoken the
truth with her words yet lied in her heart. Struggling to clear her mind of any
thoughts of Thranduil, she arched toward him as he gently suckled her breast.
Her breath caught in her throat as he pulled her gown down to her waist, the
slight chill danced across her skin, causing her nipples to harden even more.
Lifting her hips as he pulled the gown free of her, reaching toward him as she
watched him lay it over the bench. A slight smile curled her lips as she
massaged the hard length of his swollen sex trapped in the tight silk of his
leggings. Her smile broadened as she heard his breath catch as he froze for a
moment, smiling down at her before quickly loosening the ties of his leggings.
Closing her eyes, she let her mind drift back to other times they had enjoyed
each other’s bodies on cool nights beneath the starlight. Her fingers absently
caressed his cheeks and shoulders as he cupped her full breasts, his warm moist
tongue flickering teasingly over her nipples. Moaning softly, she licked her
lips as he trailed his kisses lower over her taut stomach, his hands caressing
her skin, building the tension within her. Trembling, her fingers tangled
themselves in his hair as he reached her sex.
Gasping softly as he slipped his tongue between the lips of her sex, drawing it
upward over the tiny pearl at the apex, that sent shivers through her. Pressing
tighter against him as she felt his lips encircle it, the tip of his tongue
moved teasingly over the aching little muscle. It had been so long and her need
was great as she rocked her hips against his gentle almost teasing attentions.
Smiling to himself, he moved upward, capturing her mouth in a long searching
kiss as he pressed deeply into the warm of her sex. Groaning as he held himself
tightly against her, struggling to contain himself as he felt her muscles
flexing against his sex. Burying his face in her neck as he slowly rocked
against her in short thrusts, savoring the feel and taste of her as he built
the tension between them.
Clinging to him as she felt him stiffen, she sucked her bottom lip into her
mouth as his thrusts quickened. Pressing her cheek tightly against his as she
felt the warmth of his release filling her, she blinked back the threat of
tears at the frustration that remained within her.
Chapter End Notes
     Again, thanks for reading!! Sorry, this chapter took a little longer
     to complete.
***** Revelations *****
Chapter Summary
     There is more danger in the forest than shelob (spiders) and they
     walk on two legs. Looking forward to returning the forest patrols,
     Tauriel reunites with some of her friends only to learn a little more
     about the King’s past that intrigues her. More importantly an old
     friend forces her to face her own feelings about him.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
“Since when do my wishes mean nothing!?” Thranduil exploded angrily, his
silvery blonde tresses flying behind him as he turned to face the small golden
haired elf seated in one of the chairs before the hearth in his private study.
“Thranduil...”
“No! Not this time, nothing you say will stay my anger.” He cut her off, his
eyes narrowing as he stepped closer to her. “This is inexcusable even from
you!” He exclaimed as he leaned down, grasping the arms of the chair to steady
himself. “This is not Lórinand Gilaiwë!”
The tension in the room was thick as Tóriôn stood silently at the corner of the
hearth, praying he would not be noticed. He had witnessed lovers quarrels
between these two many times over the long centuries they had known each other.
Never had he seen Thranduil so angry that he actually trembled in his struggle
to maintain his calm demeanor. Glancing quickly at Lady Gilaiwë, he swallowed
with difficulty as he noted the flush of her skin as she lifted her chin in
defiance, her dark blue gaze fixed on that of the Elvenking.
“If you would allow me to explain.” She stated quietly, refusing to shrink away
from him. Yes, he was beyond angry with her and she understood that he had
every right.
“I have been beside myself with worry.” Thranduil stated, pushing himself away
from her to resume his pacing in front of the hearth. “You were supposed to be
here yesterday. With no word from you I could only assume the worst.” He
continued, his tone quieter but no less angry as he glanced between the two of
them.
“I was delayed in Lake Town...”
“You had no cause to be there.” Thranduil stated, glaring at her as he folded
his arms across his chest.
“But I did.” Gilaiwë insisted, shifting slightly in the chair as she glance at
Tóriôn. “I thought it better that I go instead of Laûrläéthëe.”
“What are you talking about?!” He asked, his tone more demanding than
inquisitive as he stared at her. “She arrived here safely over a week ago and
said nothing of this to me.”
“Yes.” She sighed, nodding toward him. “And I have been in Lake Town since
then. The death of Smaug has brought many from other lands flooding into
Erebor.” She stated, meeting his gaze evenly. “There is a sickness there that
is spreading. The human healers have not been able to contain it without
succumbing to it themselves.”
“I am aware of this.” He told her, a deep frown forming on his brow. “I have
sent nearly half of my healers there to assist them.”
“And they are doing everything they can.” She replied, her expression softening
as her eyes implored him to understand. “Fládëithnôr has also sent additional
healers. It took longer than I expected to get things taken care of. I had not
realized how much time had passed.” She told him apologetically.
“I wish you would have informed me.” Thranduil stated as he sank heavily into
the chair opposite her, some of his anger dissipating. “Captain Lárasarnë has
reported the presence of animal traps being set within our border. They
followed a trail of odd footprints as close as a few miles west of the palace
grounds.”
“Why do you say odd?” She asked quietly, glancing at Tóriôn and then to the
wine cupboard.
“These are humans and clearly not hunters.” Thranduil said, a deep frown
forming on his brow. “Lárasarnë believes there were at least three of them. He
thought at first they might have been lost, the prints were disorganized and
moved in different directions. What concerns me is why they would attempt to
trick us into thinking they were orcs.” He stated, rubbing his temples as he
leaned back in the chair.
“Thank you.” Thranduil said, smiling weakly at Tóriôn as he handed him a goblet
of wine.
“Our forces were significantly depleted in the battle on the plains of Erebor.”
He sighed heavily as he gazed into the dark liquid. “Even so, I have ordered
Aldalómë to split the lines and take at least a third of the forces to the west
just beyond the Enchanted River.” He said before taking a long drink.
“I will not raise the alarm just yet.” He stated, turning his gaze toward the
flames in the hearth. “The Festival of Winter Solstice begins tomorrow. There
has been too much sadness already, short lived as it may be I will not have
their joy disrupted needlessly.”
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
“It will be good to have you back with the patrols.” Aûraë said quietly as
Tauriel walked back toward the hearth. “You have been missed these past
months.”
“Nothing has been confirmed yet.” Tauriel sighed as she sank back down onto the
rug in front of her. “The king will not make a final decision until after the
festival. I only know that it will not be the same.” She added, eyeing her
friend suspiciously as she refilled their teacups.
“Things change, people change.” Aûraë commented absently as she picked up her
teacup.
“What is it Aûraë?” Tauriel said, frowning from over her teacup. “You have been
acting strange all evening.”
“So have you.” She replied, frowning back at her as she flipped her long dark
tresses over her shoulder. “I miss my old friend.”
“What are you talking about?” Tauriel asked, studying her friend with earnest.
“We stayed away for so long because we thought you needed time.” Aûraë sighed,
her shoulders slumping slightly as she met her friends gaze evenly. “We are all
very sorry for what you have been through Tauriel.”
“But what?” She asked, her eyes narrowed slightly. It was not like Aûraë to
speak in round about ways, it was one of the things she had always treasured
about their friendship.
“Why can you not see what everyone else sees?” Aûraë stated more than asked, a
slow smile pulling at her full lips.
“You’re in love with him, aren’t you?” She asked when Tauriel stared at her in
silence.
“I don’t know anymore.” Tauriel sighed as she turned her gaze toward the flames
for a moment. “So much as passed between us. Things are not as they were before
and I don’t know if it will ever be the same.” She said absently as she looked
back at her friend.
“True.” Aûraë said quietly, pausing to sip her tea. “The battle in Erebor has
changed much for many of us, but I think especially for you. But you cannot
dwell on the past. You must think of yourself.”
“It’s all so confusing.” Tauriel said as she looked down into her teacup. “I
have caused him so much pain already.”
“Pain is part of loving someone.” Aûraë chuckled softly. “Do you think
everything is always so great between me and Lárasarnë?” She added, grinning as
she shook her head at her. “If he had his way I would be locked away somewhere
popping out elflings once a year!”
“Oh Eru (God)!” Tauriel exclaimed as she burst into laughter, nearly spilling
her tea. “I can’t even see that!”
“That’s my point.” She said, her tone becoming more serious as she caught
Tauriels’ gaze. “My parents may be of noble rank but I know it’s different for
you.”
“I am no different than anyone else.” Tauriel stated, frowning deeply at the
insinuation. Yet in her heart she knew that Aûraë was referring to the fact
that not only had she grown up as a ward of the king, he had taken a special
interest in her when she was but an elfling. “I have had to fight for
everything!” She stated angrily, almost glaring at her.
“And it was not given to you, you earned that position as a captain!” Aûraë
exclaimed, her eyes widening slightly. “You did it all on your own but it does
not change the fact that he has fallen in love with you.”
“I’m not so sure that is what I want.” Tauriel sighed as she set the teacup on
the ledge in front of the hearth. “Sometimes I think I would be happier if I
could just go away where no one knew nothing about me.” She groaned as she
buried her face in her hands.
“He would only find you and bring you back again.” Aûraë told her, a slight
frown forming on her brow as she studied the startled expression on her friends
face. “He is in love with you.” She added, watching the flood of emotions wash
over her face.
“No.” Tauriel whispered, her eyes widening in disbelief.
“Who did you think I was talking about? Legolas?” Aûraë chuckled, unable to
contain herself at the shocked expression.
“He only views me as he would a daughter and nothing more.” Tauriel breathed,
her thoughts becoming blurred as images flooded her mind, her body grew hot as
unwanted memories. The feel of his arms around her, the warmth of his lips on
her neck, and the evening in his personal chambers. Yes, she knew but she had
ignored it, buried it deep inside of herself.
“You really do not see it do you?” She said softly as she watched the
realization suddenly dawn in her friends’ eyes.
“It doesn’t matter.” Tauriel stated, shaking herself from the memories.
“Nothing can ever come of it. He is bound by an oath to marry only a Sindar.”
“So is Legolas but who said anything about marriage?” Aûraë asked, arching a
brow at her. “I told you, things change, people change. I think you are being
foolish.”
“Foolish!?” Tauriel blurted, staring at her in disbelief. “There are others he
finds his comfort from.” She added, collecting the teapot to refill their cups.
“You mean Galion and the Lady Gilaiwë?” Aûraë laughed, again finding her
friends innocent ignorance quite humorous. “You are kidding me right?”
“I know only what I hear but I don’t concern myself with the Kings’ private
life.” Tauriel stated, plopping the kettle down loudly onto the ledge.
“He and Galion have been lovers forever!” Aûraë laughed as she rolled her eyes.
“Ever since the King was only a young Prince. It was actually Galion who
introduced him to the feisty Lady Gilaiwë after King Oropher exiled him to
Lórinand.”
“How do you know so much?” Tauriel demanded more than asked, her eyes narrowing
as she studied her friend.
“You forget who I am related to.” Aûraë replied flippantly as she tilted her
head slightly. “I do not know the whole story, they always stop talking about
certain things when they realize I can hear them.” She laughed, pausing to take
a sip of her tea. “Apparently King Oropher was furious when he discovered
Prince Thranduil in bed with an ellyn (male elf), I do not know who. That is
when he decided to arrange an appropriate marriage for him. It was my mothers’
sister Lady Laurefindë and Lord Garävegión who convinced him to send him
there.”
“Legolas told me that he was forced into the marriage with his mother.” Tauriel
said quietly, her thoughts returning to their encounter in the solarium.
“I understand it was very difficult for both of them.” Aûraë said thoughtfully,
her gaze turning inward. “It is why he rejects it for Legolas. Love is more
important than marriage.”
“And this Lady Gilaiwë?” Tauriel asked, not really sure she wanted to know
anything more about her. She vaguely remembered the small golden haired elf
from her brief stay in Lórinand.
“She is interesting.” Aûraë sighed, frowning slightly. “I have heard him refer
to her as eshë nîn níëvé (notes). She has never married as there is some sort
of understanding between them that if anything should happen to Legolas, they
would marry only to produce a legitimate heir. So I guess you could say they
have sort of prearranged their own marriage if it should come to that.”
Curled in the comfort of the chair before the hearth long after Aûraë had
departed, her words tumbled over each other in Tauriels’ mind. She had never
paid much attention to palace gossip, spending most of her time in the forest
or with her friends among the forest patrol. She had noticed over the years
that certain ones would uncomfortably stop talking or change the subject when
she approached, she assumed they were talking about the royal family as it only
got worse after they became aware of the relationship between herself and
Legolas.
Staring into the fading embers she remembered Galions’ visit the day after she
had gone riding in the forest with Thranduil. A soft smile touched her lips as
she remembered him telling her that he had taken care of him since he was an
elfling, even spoiling him. It was his comment that he had been alone for most
of his life that brought the sting of tears to her eyes. Perhaps Galion had
wanted to tell her more but she had been more than rude to him and she
regretted it.
For the first time in months she intentionally recalled the comfort of his
strong embrace as he held her so tightly against him during the ride back from
Lórinand. The scent of him surrounding her as he wrapped her in the warmth of
his winter cloak, the feel of his body curled against hers beneath it as they
slept. He was so different during their ride on the forest, more relaxed yet
his arms still held her so close that she felt every subtle move of his body as
he guided Maeglir with ease. The memory of being back in his private chambers
pained her, he had tried to honest with her and she had rejected him.
“Galion is right.” She thought angrily as she abruptly pushed herself up from
the chair. “I am being selfish!” She chided herself, moving quickly toward the
door. So angry with herself, she nearly slammed it behind her, she didn’t even
notice as Côrnäith silently followed her as she made her way down to the lower
levels of the palace.
She was still not permitted to leave the palace and often sought the solitude
of the meditation room when her own rooms felt as if they were closing in on
her. Filled with many tall potted ferns and other leafy foliage, the sound of
the splashing water flowing over the carved ledge into the pool below was as
close as she could get the natural grottos throughout the forest. Closing her
eyes, she thought about their ride in the forest, remembering the sound of the
waterfall in the pine grove. A soft smile touched her lips as she remembered
him telling her of the one near his former home in Amon Lanc, trying to picture
the king when he was still a young prince and not weighed down with the cruel
burdens of the crown.
“Tauriel.”
Startled from her reverie, she gasped in surprise as she swung around toward
the quiet voice behind her. A myriad of emotions washed over her as she looked
at him, the soft glow of the lamp light catching in his silvery blonde hair. He
wore no crown or circlet as he stood there, dressed in simple yet exquisitely
tailored dark blue robes that accented his broad shoulders and slender waist.
Only the slightest of smiles curled his lips as he looked at her with
uncertainty in his eyes, bringing back all of Aûraës’ earlier words.
“May I join you?” He asked quietly, his smile lifting a little as he watched
her.
“Please.” She replied, not trusting her voice to say much more than that at the
moment.
“We do not have to talk.” He said softly as he approached her. “I come here
myself sometimes when I need to think.” He told her as gently lifted her hair
back over her shoulders, purposefully brushing the warm skin of her neck with
his fingertips as he did.
“But I need to talk.” She said softly, lowering her head slightly to avoid the
soft expression on his face. “I need to apologize to you.”
“Whatever for?” He asked quickly, lifting her chin with a gentle finger,
forcing her to look at him.
“There are so many things I don’t understand.” She said quietly as her gaze
flickered over his beautiful face. “I have been so selfish.”
“No.” He chuckled softly as he pulled her to him, wrapping his arms around her.
“You owe me nothing of the sort.” He told her as he leaned down, kissing the
top of her head.
“Yes I do. I have acted like a spoiled child.” She said, pressing her face
tighter against the softness of his robes as she slipped her arms around him.
“Tauriel.” Thranduil said softly, pulling back slightly as he smiled softly at
her. “None of that matters to me. You are like a daughter to me and I will
always love you, no matter what.”
“Only as a daughter?” She asked, her voice barely above a whisper as she stared
up into his eyes.
“Do you know what you are asking?” His voice was raspy as his throat
constricted slightly. She felt him tremble slightly as his arms tightened
around her, his gaze searched her own for long moments.
“Yes...”
Silenced as he pressed his lips to hers, Tauriel clung to him as she
surrendered her mouth to him, melting against the length of his hard body.
Trembling as he held her close, the warmth of his body, the strength in his
arms comforting her as his kiss grew searching. Breathlessly she clung to him
as she felt his fingers tangle themselves in her hair at the nape of her neck,
pressing her mouth tighter against his.
“Tauriel.” He groaned as he released her mouth, pressing his cheek against hers
as his arms tightened around her. “I need to know this is what you truly wish.”
He whispered in her ear. “I will send for you tomorrow evening. I will
understand if you do not come.”
Staring after him as he quickly released her and disappeared as silently as he
had approached her, she felt a chill creep over her where she had felt the
warmth if his body against hers. Hugging herself as she turned back toward the
pool, never before had a kiss ignited such passion within her. Closing her
eyes, she savored the feel of his strong arms around her, the scent of him
still clung to her as her heart raced.
Chapter End Notes
     Thanks again for reading!!
      
     Eshë nîn níëvé - my friend in the sense of a trusted ally who is also
     a lover yet not life mate
***** Darkness Lurks *****
Chapter Summary
     A brief interlude between Thranduil and Tauriel only strengthens his
     desire for her and further complicates the struggle within him where
     Legolas is concerned. The palace is brimming with excitement as the
     Winter Solstice Festival has arrived, yet there is danger lurking in
     the shadows.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
Closing his eyes for a moment, Thranduil grasped the thick oaken mantel above
the hearth as he struggled to regain control himself. The soft fragrant aromas
of lavender and lilac lingered on his robes yet it was the scent of her and the
heat of her body that tormented him. It felt so right as she slipped easily
into his arms, molding her body against his own. The softness of her full lips,
the slight tremble he felt in them as she opened her mouth, surrendering to him
had more than stirred his desire for her.
Shaking himself as he pushed himself away from the hearth, he strode
purposefully toward his wine cupboard. Frowning into the goblet as he filled
it, his frustration only deepened with his realization that everything had
suddenly changed. He had only intended to steal the chance to be with her, to
talk to her and make peace between them. Angering her in his study to get her
drop her guard was something he disliked immensely. Having known her for her
entire life, he knew exactly how far to push her to ignite the fire within her,
yet he was completely unprepared for a fire that burn with such passion.
Walking back toward the hearth, he sank heavily into his favorite chair as his
thoughts turned to Legolas. There was a part of him that knew he was struggling
to justify himself, nevertheless he had not allowed himself to acknowledge his
feelings for Tauriel until he thought he had lost them both. Gazing into the
flames, he found his mind and heart divided. Now that he had opened his heart
to her, could he close it again even for his son. The guards had kept him
informed of his sons’ movements within the palace since he was so determined to
constantly shadow her when he was not making an annoyance of himself with the
forest patrol. The last thing he wanted was another confrontation with his son.
Taking a long drink from the goblet, he grew more frustrated. Captain Lárasarnë
had privately confided in him over his concerns for the tension between his son
and Lord Elvändéruil. It was clear that his son was jealous of the relationship
between Tauriel and the young lord, making his choice even more difficult. He
would not tolerate having his son calling into question decisions he made when
it came to Tauriel. In many ways Thranduil credited himself for her
stubbornness as he had never shown her any preference, rather he pushed her to
challenge him because he knew she had it in her to be better than she thought
she was.
Banishing her had been the most difficult decision he had ever had to make, one
that had hurt far more deeply than he cared to admit. The only justification
presented to the council had been that she had already departed the palace and
was unaware of his order therefore should not have been held accountable for
having disobeyed him. Whether he wanted a confrontation with his son or not, he
now realized that it was inevitable. The decision to abolish the hereditary
oath was in truth personal and he could not deny it, regardless of the fact
that his son had abandoned the realm, leaving him little choice. Still, there
was the fact that the line of succession to the throne was weak and he could
not bring himself to advocate an arranged marriage for his son or himself.
Tipping the goblet to his lips, he frowned to find it empty. Sighing heavily,
he sat it on the table by the chair and pushed himself to his feet and made his
way to his bed chamber. The festivities for Winter Solstice were set to begin
at midday and would run well into the night. He would be expected to be in
attendance for the greater portion of the evening, making it a very long day
indeed.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
“You seem rather excited this morning.” Nînquië commented, scooting over a bit
as Tauriel took the seat beside her in the dining hall for the morning meal.
“Why wouldn’t I be?” Tauriel shrugged, her gaze flickered briefly toward Aûraë
as she made herself comfortable.
“Oh, I don’t know.” Nînquië rolled her eyes. “Maybe it’s because you rarely
attend the festivals anymore. Not to mention your glum mood last night.”
Lowering her head slightly as her friends chattered excitedly about the
festivities planned for the day, Aûraë hid behind her thick lashes as she
looked toward the dais. Smiling to herself as she watched the kings’ gaze move
over the crowded room, noting that his attention lingered for long moments on
their table.
“Has everyone decided on what they’re wearing yet?” Ilÿraná asked excitedly,
her soft green eyes sparkling as she reached for the pot of honey.
“I never know until I walk out of my rooms!” Aûraë laughed, reaching for her
teacup.
“She changes her mind at least a hundred times.” Lárasarnë complained as he
approached their table.
“I do not!” She exclaimed, feigning a hurt expression that was belied by the
laughter that nearly radiated from her pale blue gray eyes.
“I think we’ll find another table.” Rielassë commented, elbowing Lárasarnë
jokingly. “They’ll drive us crazy with their silliness!” He said, rolling his
eyes as he smiled at Nînquië who looked demurely down at her plate to hide her
blush.
Lárasarnë smiled and winked at Aûraë as he followed Rielassë to a nearby table
where Ivósaar and Träëliôrn were seated. He really didn’t mind not sharing the
morning meal with her, it was their day as elleth’s (elf maiden) seemed to live
for these events with all their primping and fussing just getting ready.
Stealing a glance toward the dais as the ellyn’s (male elf) interrupted their
conversation, Tauriel smiled as her gaze met his for only a few moments but it
was enough. Her heart sped up slightly as she remembered their brief encounter
in the mediation room last night. She felt her face heat with her blush as she
turned to find herself staring into Aûraës’ knowing gaze, a soft smile curled
the corners of her lips.
“I definitely think green is your color.” Aûraë said thoughtfully, her smile
lighting up her face as she met Tauriels’ gaze. “Actually I think forest green
would be the best choice. It will bring out your eyes and green always goes
well with red hair.”
“Is that why you always wear blue?” Tauriel laughed, her eyes dancing as she
stared at her friend.
“Of course!” Aûraë exclaimed feigning shock as she widened her eyes at her. “I
usually wear dark blue to be precise.” She laughed, tossing her ebony tresses
back over her shoulder. “The lighter colors get washed out with my dark hair
and they do nothing to bring out these pale eyes.” She pouted, then broke out
in laughter.
Clearing his throat to keep from chuckling at the group of elleth’s (elf
maiden), Thranduil only briefly met his sons’ gaze as he turned his attention
to other tables throughout the dining hall. Normally the most subdued meal of
the day, he could feel the energy flowing throughout the room. It was good to
hear the sound of laughter and feel the excitement after everything they had
all been through this past year.
“No, I’m fine, thank you.” He commented quietly to the young kitchen helper as
he carefully laid his napkin over his teacup, smiling as she made her way along
the rest of the table. He was finished, merely enjoying the atmosphere of the
room, waiting for the signal from Garävegión and Laurefindë that they were
ready to depart. The next official council meeting was not for another two
days, but there were things he needed to discuss and clarify with them before
then.
“I take it you’re ready.” Garävegión commented, arching a thin brow as he
turned toward him.
“Quite.” Thranduil sighed as he pushed his chair back from the table and turned
to Laurefindë. “Ready?” He asked quietly, smiling as he grasped the back of her
chair.
“I thought you would never ask.” She chuckled, rising to her feet as Thranduil
pulled the chair out for her. “I would rather get this out of the way so we can
enjoy the festivities.”
“Any word from Aldalómë?” Thranduil asked, turning toward Garävegión as they
fell in step with each other.
“Nothing new.” He shook his head as he clasped his hands loosely behind his
back. “They are all in place and agree with Captain Lárasarnë. The footprints
are definitely human but he doesn’t believe they were lost or even disorganized
but he is still not sure whether they pose a threat to us or not.”
“I had hoped to have only a few patrols out during the festival.” Thranduil
sighed heavily, frowning as they strolled through the halls toward his private
study.
“Maybe that’s what they were hoping for.” Laurefindë commented thoughtfully as
she glanced up at Thranduil. “They just didn’t expect us to find their traps.
How many have been located?” She asked, turning her attention to Garävegión.
“Only the three Captain Lárasarnë and his patrol found.” He stated, a deep
frown forming on his brow. “It’s not so much how many since they were crudely
made, it’s how close they are to the palace grounds that is most disturbing.”
“Who did Aldalómë take with him when he split the forces?” Thranduil asked as
they descended the stairs into his private area of the palace.
“I believe it was Macilvoronhûr and Eluandúnië.” Garävegión replied as they
followed the king into his private study, pulling the door closed behind him.
“Good choices.” Thranduil said out loud but more to himself as he walked behind
his desk. “How do we look at the eastern edge?” He asked, glancing up at
Laurefindë as he seated himself in his chair.
“As long as we keep the Forest River guarded I think we’ll be fine.” She
replied, choosing the chair closest to the hearth. “If you want to remove
troops, I suggest we leave at least one at the river and one near the Half
Barrel Inn.” She said as she adjusted herself comfortably. "There’s been
reports of unsavory ilk hanging about. They’re not so much interested in the
lower region near the Mirkwood Mountains because of the shelob (spiders), but
there’s clear passage through the realm if they go up river.”
“Aldalómë has set his command post at the Vale of the Forked Pass.” Garävegión
as he sank down in the chair closest to Thranduils’ desk. “The other two have
set up outposts to the north and south of him.”
“I hope we are making something out of nothing, but it is better to be
prepared.” Thranduil sighed, leaning back in his chair. “Now for other
matters.” He said, turning toward Laurefindë. “I know it has been discussed
amongst the council but I want to know if you have any feelings on what
direction the council might sway on abandoning the hereditary oath.”
“You know you can just abolish it without the council.” She said, meeting his
gaze evenly.
“Yes.” He said quietly, a slight smile forming on his lips as he arch a brow at
her. “Things tend to work better if I have the support of the council.”
“Support is not unanimous but the majority will support it.” She replied, with
a shrug. “The only hold outs are Tirithiáël and Thalión.”
“I have decided to wait until Nost-na-Lothion (Spring Festival) to officially
present it before the council.” Thranduil sighed heavily, the glances shared
between them were not lost on him.
“Why wait?” Laurefindë could not resist asking as she frowned at him.
“Because I know how my son thinks.” He sighed, looking up at ceiling as if he
were searching for the right words. “Right now that oath gives Tauriel control
which is how I want it.”
“I am not understanding.” Garävegión sighed, shaking his head as he glanced
back and forth between the two of them, the confusion clearly written on his
face.
“They are bound, she is not.” Laurefindë chuckled, arching a brow at him. “It
makes them both equal to her and puts the choice in her hands.” She added as
Garävegión just stared at her.
“Okay, I see.” He laughed, shaking his head as he leaned back in the chair.
“You will have to forgive me. It has been a very long time since I had any
interest in courtly games much less played them.”
“However.” Thranduil chuckled at his friend. “I do have one other matter that
involves Tauriel as well. I do not need the approval of the council nor do I
care about their feelings on the matter of replacing Legolas as Commander of
the Patrol. I will be giving the position to her.” He stated, his tone becoming
more serious as he watched Garävegión.
“I do not oppose the appointment.” He stated, although cautiously as he frowned
at Thranduil. “If anyone should question it, what is the reasoning?” He asked.
“My son has been bitten by the wanderlust.” Thranduil sighed heavily, his gaze
taking on an inward expression of contemplation. “Whatever decision she makes
will determine his actions. So again, I share my thoughts with you so you will
understand. If her choice is in his favor, then nothing changes. If not, then I
wish for his decision to depart from me to be based on that and not any
decision I make.”
“You know he will still blame you.” Garävegión stated, sadness creeping into
his usually sparkling pale blue eyes.
"Yes." Thranduil said quietly, already feeling the ache in his heart.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
“You idiots!” The tall dark haired elf hissed as he entered the room at the end
of the hall at the Half Barrel Inn. His dark blue eyes glared angrily at the
two men seated at the small table by the window. “Your traps have done nothing
but alert the King of your presence.”
“Yes and they have served their purpose.” Ardara replied, even as he shrank
back from the anger so clearly visible in the elf’s face. “Look around you, the
King has withdrawn most of his forces and sent them west.”
“With people pouring into Erebor most of the elven forces were concentrated
here.” Donagh stated, eyeing the elf as he lowered his tall frame into the
remaining empty chair at the table.
“Yes but he is not a fool.” The elf said quietly, a deep frown forming on his
otherwise smooth brow. “Neither is his Chief March Warden. It will not take
them long to figure out there is no threat and he will recall his forces closer
to the palace.”
“Your Winter Solstice has already begun aye?” Ardara asked as he leaned
forward, resting his elbows on the table.
“Your task is not a simple one and the danger should not be taken lightly.” The
elf stated as he leaned forward, resting his arms on the table as well. “The
Sindar blood line to the throne must not be broken nor shall it be tainted.”
“You may think us to be fools. We are not ignorant of the wrath of King
Thranduil.” Ardara stated angrily, his eyes narrowing as he grew weary of the
elf’s riddles. “It is a dangerous game you play. You have had centuries to
remove him from the throne...”
“That is not the purpose of your task.” The elf interrupted him. “We do not
want him removed from the throne. It is only his decision to allow his only
heir to marry outside of the rightful line to the throne that we oppose. The
king is much loved by the people of the Woodland Realm and his political reach
goes far beyond our borders.”
“And you think killing one she-elf will change his mind?” Ardara stated more
than asked as he arched a bushy brow at the elf.
“She is not to be harmed.” The elf told him, his tone threatening as he leaned
toward him. “We have waited long for a weakness that can be used against him.
The she-elf you seek is the key to forcing his hand toward accepting the
betrothal of his son to a Sindar of our choosing.”
“What makes this one so special to him?” Donagh asked, leaning forward. “If he
is so desperate to get his son married off, surly there are others.
“No.” The elf sighed heavily, shaking his head as he turned toward the other
man. “It is not his desperation that is his weakness. Unfortunately our king
still believes in love. The prince is already in love with her and the king
loves her as a daughter.”
“Surly then she would be under his protection?” Ardara stated more than asked.
“Perhaps even kept inside that fortress of his. How do we get to her?” He
asked, arching a brow at the elf.
“Elves are not like humans.” The elf stated, a sardonic smile curling his lips.
“Both are well trained and willing to fight alongside one another in battle to
the death if necessary. This one has a will of her own and has already served
the king as a captain in his forest patrol for many years. In three days she
will rejoin the forest patrols as their commander. Capturing her will not be
easy, her fighting skills are of the highest among the patrols.” He continued,
the sardonic smile twisting to a smirk as he watched the two men.
“This is why your task is not simple and you must be cautious.” The elf
continued after a long silence between them. “The depth of the kings’ love for
his son is great and he will do anything to keep him near. That is why you will
take her to the caves in the eastern end of the Mirkwood Mountains until we
send for her.”
“The Mirkwood Mountains are crawling with those damned spiders.” Ardara spat
angrily as he pushed himself up from the table. “You ask much with only a small
reward for our troubles.”
“He is going to want proof that she lives. How do we give him that without
risking ourselves?” Donagh asked, narrowing his eyes at the elf as his own
anger rose from deep in his gut.
“Leave that to us.” The elf stated as he rose to his feet and walked toward the
door. “I will speak to you again in three days.”
“I don’t like this.” Ardara stated, turning toward his companion after the elf
had left them. “The sickness in Lake Town isn’t getting any better not to
mention that it’s crawling with Mirkwood elves.”
Chapter End Notes
     As always, thanks so much for reading!! This story has been really
     fun to write and I hope you are enjoying it as much as I am!
***** Conspiracies *****
Chapter Summary
     Conspiracies abound within the Woodland Realm. Some for power, others
     for love. The choice is made and stage is now set, for Thranduil and
     Tauriel there is no turning back. But what of Legolas?
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
The hour had grown late, many of the married couples and most of the older
elves had long since departed the festivities, leaving the merriment to the
younger ones. Perched comfortably at the end of the long table on the dais,
Gilaiwë enjoyed the perfect view of the grand ballroom. A sly smile touched her
lips as she caught sight of the young prince standing in the far corner near
the minstrels. Although his expression was similar to the guarded indifference
often worn by his father, it was obvious at least to her that he had not yet
mastered the art of concealing his heart.
Glancing in the direction of his intense gaze, her smile grew as she watched
Lord Elvändéruil bow low before the beautiful young fiery haired former captain
of the forest patrol. Always the gentleman, she watched as he guided her out
onto the floor, maintaining the respectable distance between them as she smiled
up at him. She definitely seemed more relaxed, the deep folds of her forest
green gown flowing around her as they moved with the music.
Sipping her wine sparingly she also felt the change in the atmosphere since
Thranduil had retired for the evening. Part of her longed for the quiet
serenity of her beloved Lórinand as she sensed an undercurrent and she was not
quite sure yet if it threatened the Woodland Realm or Thranduil himself. The
feeling heightened as she watched the young courtiers as they moved about like
chess pieces, each one unaware that they were merely pawns in a much larger
scheme contrived by power hungry older nobles.
“What wickedness are you plotting in that beautiful head of yours?” Tóriôn
chuckled, slipping into the seat next to her as he continued to watch the small
group of ellyn (male elf) nobles near the prince.
“What have you heard?” She asked as she continued to watch the dancers,
ignoring his teasing.
“Galion confirmed the rumors.” Tóriôn said quietly, schooling his expression as
he turned his attention toward the prince. “Thranduil fully intends to abandon
the hereditary oath, much to the dismay of certain nobles.”
“So.” Gilaiwë sighed softly, her slender fingers toying with the stem of her
wine glass. “He has finally admitted to himself that he is in love with her.”
A playful smile touching her lips as she remembered how adamantly he denied it
when he came to Lórinand to retrieve her. Part of her was a bit jealous yet she
had no desire to bind herself to the throne of the Woodland Realm.
Unfortunately, for whatever reason, the fates had once again dealt him a cruel
choice between his love for his son and for the one he had loved as daughter
yet now desired.
“I am sure he did not come to this decision lightly.” Tóriôn commented quietly
as he reached for the carafe to refill her glass. “I can see that it pains him
greatly.”
“No.” She agreed, frowning slightly as she turned toward him. “Unfortunately it
was a decision made with his heart not his mind.”
“You do not give him enough credit Gilaiwë.” He stated, his silver eyes
silencing her as she met his gaze evenly. “Though he hides it well, Thranduil
has always listened to the voice in his heart. In many ways, especially with
his son’s willingness to abandon him, Legolas has left him no choice in this
matter. He has already sacrificed much in the name of the throne, he deserves
the right to be selfish once.”
“So how do we help him?” She arched a brow as she lifted the wine glass to her
lips.
“According to Galion he has done well in over the past weeks, stepping aside to
allow her the chance to decide what she wants. He has limited his contact with
her only to official matters yet his desire for her deepens.” Tóriôn said
quietly, turning his attention to the dancers as he leaned forward, resting his
elbows on the table. “Lord Elvändéruil has been more than gracious in humoring
my request that he occupy her time this evening.”
“What are you up to?” She asked, the sly smile on her lips belied the glare of
her narrowed gaze as she watched him.
“There, see it?” He stated, nodding toward the prince, chuckling as she turned,
looking toward the far corner.
Gilaiwë saw the flash of anger on the face of the young prince as the music
faded, bringing the dance to an end. Lord Elvändéruil threw up his hands in
mock despair before bowing to Tauriel as she was whisked away toward a nearby
table by two young elleth’s (elf maiden).
“One is the Lady Cäthdéirÿn, the only child of Lord Tulcë and the other is Lady
Cëänielóra, the only daughter to Lord Thalión and Lady Malinaloxë.” He said
quietly, smiling as they watched the prince move toward a table occupied by two
ellyn’s (male elf) they recognized as members of the forest patrol.
“You have been busy.” Gilaiwë chuckled, watching the Lady Laûrläéthëe lean
close to Tauriel as one of the elleth’s (elf maiden) seated herself at the
table while the other moved onto the floor with Lord Elvändéruil as the
minstrels began to play again.
“Please.” He laughed, his silver eyes dancing as he turned to look at her. “I
leave the match making to the elleth’s (elf maiden), I am simply trying to
figure out who is who. The other two at the table are her friends from the
forest patrol, the ebony haired one Aûraë is the daughter of Lord Arthädión and
Lady Presráë. The other one, Ilÿraná is the daughter of Lady Kÿriäén.”
“Even so, you work very quickly.” She eyed him suspiciously from over the rim
of her glass.
“Again you give me too much credit.” He laughed as he wiggled his thin brows at
her. “All I needed to do was speak with our beloved busybody.”
“Galion, of course.” She chuckled, shaking her head.
“You needn’t worry.” Laûrläéthëe whispered in her ear as she filled the goblet
with the dark red Dorwinion wine. “It has been very much watered down.”
“It has been a very long time since I have seen my brother so happy.” She
laughed as she set the carafe back on the table, glancing around at the smiling
faces of the others before turning back to smile at the surprised look on
Tauriels’ face. “There was a time, long ago when I once looked at him the same
as you do now.” She continued, her tone and expression softening as she met the
young elleth’s (elf maiden) gaze. “Alas, he did not look upon me as he does
you.”
Dropping her gaze from the beautiful elleth’s (elf maiden) face, Tauriel felt
the room spin around her as she remembered the first time she had seen her with
Thranduil in the meditation room. He had been so upset with her for not
informing him of her plans to attend the festival. She knew then that she was
of some importance, only now realizing that her mother was none other than the
kings’ longtime friend and council member Lady Laurefindë.
“Tauriel.” Laûrläéthëe said softly, smiling brightly as she leaned closer to
her. “My calling was elsewhere. All I care about now is his happiness and if he
has found it in you, trust me when I say there are more than you realize who
feel the same as I do.”
“I don’t understand.” Tauriel said quietly, glancing around the table as all
eyes seemed to stare at her
“Oh, I think you do.” Cäthdéirÿn said quietly, her bright blue eyes dancing as
she smiled at her with the same warmth as Laûrläéthëe. “The old ways are dying
and we must look to the future if we are to survive.”
“What are you talking about?” She asked, frowning deeply as she studied
Cäthdéirÿn’s face. “If we are to survive what?” Tauriel shifted uncomfortably
as they all seemed to be studying her.
“Smile, you are supposed to be having fun.” Aûraë stated, smiling softly yet
her tone was a bit scolding. “It helps if they believe we are little more than
silly elleth’s (elf maiden) sitting here gossiping.” She added, her comment
soliciting a burst of laughter from the others.
“There is talk the king will petition the council to abandon the oath that
separates Sindar from Silvan.” Ilÿraná stated softly, her gaze imploring her to
understand. “If this is true then even the nobles will have the right to marry
of our own choosing.”
Staring at her normally quiet friend, Tauriel fell silent as she remembered the
longing in her eyes before she turned away from Rielassë at the morning meal. A
mixture of both Silvan and Sindar, there was a tight comradery among those of
the forest patrol, their lives depended on each other out there and they knew
it. Regardless of her noble birth, Ilÿraná was still Silvan and considered by
some as less than those of Sindar heritage and Rielassë was Sindar.
“Thranduil has had centuries of practice at hiding himself behind one
formidable mask after another.” Laûrläéthëe said quietly, a soft smile touching
her lips as paused to take a sip from her goblet. “I can count on one hand
those who know him well enough to know that he loves you. But he is no fool.”
She added, her tone taking on a bit of warning note.
“He will not ask it of you.” She stated, studying the young former captain of
the patrol. “He is well aware of his son’s feelings for you. Soon you must make
a choice between them and it will not be easy for you.”
“What of Legolas?” Tauriel asked, her voice was barely above a whisper as tears
stung the backs of her eyes, knowing if she followed her heart the choice was
clear.
“There are those who have lost faith in the prince.” Cäthdéirÿn told her softly
as she reached over to grasp her hand. “It has nothing to do with you. The
prince is ruled too much by his heart, but he is impetuous like his grandfather
and has never hidden the fact that he has no desire to rule.” She added
quickly, squeezing her hand.
“Come, I know that he wishes to see you tonight.” Laûrläéthëe said quietly,
smiling as she rose to her feet. “They are enjoying themselves tonight and will
have fun distracting the prince for you.”
“Why are you doing this?” Tauriel asked, casting her a sideways glance as she
rose and turned away from the table and from Legolas.
“Many reasons some that cannot be explained.” Laûrläéthëe said quietly,
clasping her hands loosely behind her back as they strolled casually toward the
large doors of the ballroom. “They are right you know, the old ways are dying.
Thranduil never believed in the separation of us as a people. I would never
burden you by implying that this is your duty, yet as one who understands the
weight of it, you are one who can also understand him.”
“I closed my heart to him once.” Tauriel reluctantly admitted as they reached
the corridor that led to her rooms. “Fleeing into the forest, to spare my heart
the pain of what I could not have.”
“There are many who still believe in fate.” Laûrläéthëe stated, her gaze
turning inward for a moment. “There is no higher power that guides our lives,
only the strength within ourselves to become what we need to be when the time
comes.”
“What am I supposed to do?” Tauriel asked quietly, a nervous feeling settling
over her as they reached her rooms.
“Follow your heart Tauriel.” Laûrläéthëe told her softly as she took her hands
firmly in hers. “You have been given much to think about, but not tonight.” She
said as she leaned closer to her. “Tonight he is not a king, he is just an
ellyn (male elf) whose heart yearns for the one he loves.” She whispered as she
hugged her tightly.
Turning away from her as she entered her rooms, Laûrläéthëe walked quickly
toward Côrnäith, the guard who stood silently in the shadows of the tall statue
near the stairs leading down to the kings’ private areas of the palace.
“It is the kings’ wishes that she not be disturbed.” She told him quietly.
“Ben iest gîn, hiril vuin.” (As you wish, my lady). The guard replied after
casting a glance toward Thalieth, the guard standing watch on the landing at
the bottom of the first set of stairs.
Swallowing against the lump in her throat as she closed the door, Tauriel felt
as if her heart would burst. Walking toward the glowing hearth, her mind raced
as she struggled to grasp not what they had told her, but with what had not
been said and her own feelings.
All her life Thranduil had been the one constant, first as her father, her
protector and as her king. It had always been his strength that she had leaned
on so selfishly and he never failed her, not once. Even when he banished her,
she knew what it had cost him. She owed everything she was to him. Hot tears
leaked from the corners of her eyes as she stared into the flames. How it must
have pained him to choose between his love for his son and the love he felt for
her and he was being forced to do it again.
The folds of her gown swirled as she turned and fled to her bathing chamber.
Grabbing a soft cloth, she soaked it in the cool water in the small bowl next
to the basin. Shaking herself angrily for her weakness, she quickly washed away
any signs of her tears and stared at her reflection in the polished silvered
glass as she collected herself.
Frowning slightly, Thranduil watched in silence from the shadows of the small
private sitting room opposite the hearth in her rooms. Concern etched in his
brow as she walked back into the sitting room, a strange expression on her face
yet there was soft smile that curled her lips. He let his gaze travel
appreciatively over her as she walked back to the hearth. The simple yet
elegant gown draped seductively over her feminine curves, artfully revealing
nothing of the treasure hidden beneath the fine silk. Unhindered with her
customary braids, her bright auburn hair hung freely to her waist.
“My Lord!” She gasped, instinctively stiffening as his arms closed tightly
around her, pulling her against the length of his body, the familiar scent of
him washing over her.
Trembling, a faint moan escaped her throat as she felt the heat of his lips
brushing softly against her neck. Closing her eyes, she felt her entire body
shudder as he gently suckled the soft flesh of her earlobe, his breath so warm
against her skin.
“I will not ask of you what you do not freely give.” He whispered softly, his
lips brushing her neck as he slid one hand down the length of her taut stomach.
“Is your answer still yes?” He asked quietly, pressing her against his hips.
“Yes.” She whispered, relaxing against him as she grasped the arm holding her
so possessively just beneath her breasts. Swallowing against a parched throat
as she felt the hard length of his desire pressing against her lower back.
Thranduil felt his heart leap as he gathered her into his arms, cradling her
against him, he turned away from the hearth. Smiling to himself as he strode
purposefully toward her bed chamber, his long legs clearing the distance
quickly. Lowering her to her feet as he reached the edge of the bed, he took
her face in his hands, capturing her mouth in long searching kiss.
“Aye Eru (God)!” He groaned silently, he felt her lifting herself upward,
thrusting her hot little tongue into his mouth. His breath quickened as their
tongues entwined, intensifying the growing pain in his groin. Many nights over
the long months her emerald eyes and the sound of her sweet laughter had
tormented him in his dreams with no relief.
Reluctantly, he released her mouth only to turn her away from him, hugging her
tightly against himself for a moment before lifting her hair over her shoulder,
he paused to lean down kissing her neck softly. His nimble fingers made quick
work of unfastening the row of tiny buttons down the back of her gown. Slipping
his arms around her as he pushed it from her shoulders, he teased her taut
nipples through the thin silk of the soft chemise, smiling to himself as she
trembled and leaned against him.
“Thranduil...” She breathed, turning her face toward him, her body trembling as
her legs grew weak beneath her.
Silenced as he leaned down, slipping his tongue into her open mouth as he
tightened his arm beneath her breasts. Her arms trapped at her sides, she
lifted herself onto her toes as she snaked her tongue into his mouth. Moaning
softly as he slipped his hand between her warm flesh and the thin silk of her
undergarment. Clenching her hands as she felt his finger slide between the lips
of her wet sex, drawing the tip of his finger upward to the find the sensitive
spot at the apex. Squirming at the touch, her moans grew louder as he massaged
her now very slick pearl, building the tension within her.
“I dhû hen and.” (You’re in for a long night) He whispered in a voice thick
with desire, his lips brushing teasingly over hers as he spoke. “I have thought
of little beyond this moment since last night.” He told her softly as he
removed the soft silks of her undergarments, casting them aside, he gave her a
gentle nudge toward the bed.
Climbing into the center of it she turned to face him, only now realizing he
had changed from his official robes, he wore no crown, only a soft blue tunic
and gray leggings. She watched in awe as he pulled the tunic over his head,
tossing it carelessly on top of her gown. Her gaze flowed over his tall frame,
admiring the toned muscles of his broad shoulders and chest. She felt her mouth
go dry as the leggings slipped freely to the floor, revealing far more than a
slender waist and strong thighs.
Gathering her into his arms as he slipped into the bed with her, he was content
for the moment to simply hold her. Kissing her lips and face softly, waiting
patiently for her to relax before turning to her neck, trailing his lips slowly
toward her hardened nipples.
Clenching her jaws to keep from crying out, she tangled her fingers in his hair
as he flicked one nipple before pulling it into the warmth of his mouth. There
was no pain yet it was not the gentle teasing she had known with Legolas. The
warm mouth at her breast suckled like a babe starved for it as his tongue
swirled over the hard little bud, sending jolts of pleasure through her as he
moved between them.
Grasping her wrists as he trailed his kisses lower over her taut stomach toward
her sex, he held them firmly. Settling himself between her thighs, he watched
her through narrowed eyes as he slid his tongue along the crevice of her sex.
Smiling as she lifted her head to look down at him, he pressed his face tightly
against her sex, thrusting his tongue into her. Encircling her swollen pearl
with his lips, he suckled it firmly as he teased it with the tip of his tongue.
“Ahh!” Tauriel cried out, her thighs instinctively tried to close against the
pleasure that bordered on pain. She heard her own voice as if in a distance,
moaning shamelessly as pleasure beyond anything she had imagined coursed
through her body. With a mind of its own, she felt her body responding to that
tantalizing mouth and tongue as she rocked hard against him, seeking release
from the near painful tension he had built within her.
Smiling as she arched against him one last time, Thranduil lapped greedily at
the sweet taste of her fluids before moving up over her. Capturing her mouth in
a hungry kiss, he carefully guided himself in place and slowly entered her. A
soft whimper escaped his lips as he rocked forward, the tight sheath of her sex
gripped him as he buried himself in her warmth. Wincing slightly as he felt her
fingers digging into his back, he held himself still, allowing her to grow
accustomed to his presence within her.
Slipping his arms beneath her shoulders, he cradled her head in his hands as
his kiss turned more searching. Breathing in the fragrant aromas of lavender,
lilac, the familiar scent of her, and now the stronger scent of their passion,
Thranduil wanted the moment to last forever. Slowly as he rocked against her,
savoring the feel of her flexing muscles, he felt her moving with him. Her
fingers tracing teasing patterns over his back, sent shivers through him as he
struggled to hold back his release.
Feeling him tremble, Tauriel wrapped her arms around him as he stiffened,
groaning painfully as he buried his face in her neck. His breath was ragged as
tension broke within him, his hips jerked forward as she felt the warmth of his
release filling her.
Chapter End Notes
     Sorry this one took so long to get posted, just had a lot of things
     going, unreliable internet being one of them!
     As always, comments are welcome!
***** The Plot Thickens *****
Chapter Summary
     As Thranduil and Tauriel finally declare their love to each other,
     there are those that plot to tear them apart.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
The fire in the hearth had burned down to little more than a few glowing embers
as the last dregs of sleep lifted from him. A slight smile curled Thranduils’
lips as he recalled the events of the festival but more particularly the events
that followed and resisted the urge to hug the soft warm body closer to him.
The room was filled with the aromas of her preferred lavender and lilac, the
scent of her filled his senses as he lay there quietly with his face buried in
the soft silkiness of her hair. One arm possessively holding her around her
slender waist, he was more than aware of the firm breast he held gently in his
hand. The warmth of her naked body pressed so tightly against his own as he
curled around her had stirred his desire to an ache in his groin.
Forcing his mind to other things he allowed her to sleep as he mentally shook
his head at her unpredictable nature. She alone had the ability anger him
beyond reason with her stubbornness yet a certain glance, a smile or a touch
could incite such a desire within him that he was willing to throw caution to
the wind. He loved his son beyond words yet he knew with deep regret that once
he learned of the liaison things would be forever changed between them.
Instinctively he tightened his arm slightly around her, his thoughts turning to
their confrontation is his private study the day he had returned to the
Woodland Realm.
He thought of the previous evening in the meditation room, questioning his
reasoning. While he had told himself he only wished to speak with her and to
make peace between them, the nagging voice of his conscience knew otherwise. He
had been unable to resist any excuse to touch her as he stepped behind her,
brushing the soft warm skin of her neck with his fingertips as he lifted her
hair. His mind told him he should have accepted her apology and left it at
that, while his heart could not because she had in truth done nothing wrong.
Stretching slightly as sleep began to slip from her, Tauriel awoke completely.
Everything came flooding back through her mind like a raging river threatening
to sweep her away. She had been so swept up in the excitement of the
festivities there was so much she had not noticed. Legolas loomed in her
thoughts, his stern expression as Elvändéruil became even more possessive of
her than usual. The strange knowing glances as the faces of Aûraë and Ilÿraná
loomed before her minds’ eye as bits and pieces of their conversation tugged at
her memory.
In a blink of an eye all of it washed over her and was gone, replaced by her
awareness of him as he held her possessively against the hardness of his warm
body. She felt the heat of his breath on her neck, the soft caress of her
breast held gently in his hand. Her breath caught in her throat as she felt the
hard length of his desire pressed firmly against her backside, her heart raced
as her own desire began to stir between her legs.
Trembling at his touch, she felt his fingertips trace teasingly down her
stomach, slipping easily between her thighs. A soft whimper escaped her lips as
she felt the hand at her breast gently roll her nipple in his fingers as the
other explored the growing wetness of her sex, dipping deeply into her only to
draw upward to massage her swollen nub. Her soft whimpers grew into deeper
groans as he continued to pleasure her, playing her body as a minstrel would
his instrument, he seemed to know just where and how to touch her to make her
want him more.
Gasping as he moved over her, capturing her mouth in a long searching kiss.
Struggling for breath beneath the onslaught of his hungry mouth, she dug her
nails into the muscled flesh of his shoulders as she felt the hard thickness of
him enter her. Arching slightly against the pleasure mingled with a discomfort
that bordered on pain, she clung to him as he gently rocked against her. Slowly
the discomfort subsided as he built the tension between them, holding her in
gentle yet strong arms.
Cradling her head in his hands, he struggled to hold back as she tangled her
fingers in his hair, returning his kiss with a passion of her own as her hips
rose to match his need. Pulling back slightly, he teased her lips with gentle
kisses and soft whispered words of love as he felt her flexing muscles drawing
her closer to her release. A deep groan escaped his lips, his body stiffening
as he felt the tension suddenly break, draining his release from him.
Smiling to herself as he lay spent on top of her, Tauriel turned toward him,
pressing her cheek against his. Closing her eyes, she became more aware of his
muscled body, the sound of his ragged breaths, the feel of his heart beating
against her breasts. Slipping her arms around his waist, she breathed in the
familiar scent him now mingled with the stronger scent of their shared passion.
“Good morning.” He whispered after long moments, his lips teasing the softness
of her earlobe as he spoke.
“Mmmmm.” Tauriel purred softly, turning toward his face, kissing his parted
lips. A slight smile curled her own as she teased his lower lip with the tip of
her tongue.
“You keep that up and I will keep you abed all day.” He growled playfully,
moving quickly to capture her wrists. Pulling them over her head as he smiled
down at her, his mouth close enough to hers he could feel her soft breath on
his lips. “I think I would enjoy that very much.” He added, his lips brushing
her chin as he spoke, his deep voice laced with desire.
“I think I would like to be able to walk.” She laughed softly as she squirmed
teasingly beneath him.
“I did not hurt you did I?” He asked, stiffening as he released her wrists
quickly, genuine concern thick in his voice.
“Oh no!” She exclaimed, her tone carried a hint of laughter as she wrapped her
arms around his neck. “I was only picking on you.”
Capturing her mouth in tender kiss, he cut himself off before he spoke. It had
been many years since she was that little elleth (elf maiden) who used to pick
on him for his funny ways as she would call them. They seemed to argue more now
that she was older and he was no longer used to her humor and teasing banter.
“Tauriel.” He sighed heavily, pulling back slightly from her yet still held her
possessively in his arms as he struggled with the reality of their situation.
“I love you.” He whispered softly, his lips teasing hers as he spoke. “There
are things we need to discuss.” He added as he placed soft kisses over her
face, lingering once more on her warm responsive lips.
Swallowing against the lump in her throat, Tauriel brought her hands to his
face, gently tracing her fingertips over his cheeks. She could feel his body
tensing as he studied her, waiting for some response yet her thoughts raced
chaotically in her mind. Pulling his face to hers, she kissed him deeply,
savoring the taste of him even as she felt the tremble of uncertainty in his
lips.
“I love you Thranduil.” She whispered, her arms slipping around his neck as she
pulled him closer. “My heart has always belonged to you.”
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
“You are late.” Lord Tirithiáël stated, his tone quiet yet carried easily
across the wide expanse of his public sitting room.
“I apologize Adar (Father).” Lord Ortäuré said quietly, nodding respectfully
toward him as he approached the large hearth to join him. “I was forced to
remain in Erebor longer than I had originally planned.”
“Forced?” Lord Tirithiáël asked, arching a brow as his unreadable pale blue
eyes studied his son.
“Ayë.” (Yes) Lord Ortäuré replied as firmly yet as respectfully as possible.
“You were correct in assuming the traps had been set by Ardara and his men.
Unfortunately, it took longer than anticipated to find and destroy them all.
Even so, I am not sure we were successful.”
“It is my understanding that Captain Lárasarnë reported only three?” Lord
Tirithiáël continued, the disapproval dripping from his tone as he turned
toward the low table in front of the settee. “I would think you could have
dispatched them quite easily.” He added as he picked up the carafe of wine from
the tray on the table, pouring a goblet for his son.
“We actually found twelve scattered toward the west and southern regions.” Lord
Ortäuré stated, his own pale blue gaze meeting that of his fathers’ as he
accepted the goblet. “It was necessary to not only destroy them but to remove
any trace of them.”
“I am concerned this will create an unnecessary stain between our two houses.”
Lord Tirithiáël sighed as he sank down into one of the chairs before the
hearth, motioning his son toward the one opposite him. “While Lord Thalión
appears agreeable to my proposal, the Lady Malinaloxë is far less inclined.”
“Oviëdó has agreed to this?” Lord Ortäuré asked as he shifted uncomfortably in
the chair.
“He will do as he is told.” Lord Tirithiáël stated calmly although his eyes
flashed angrily at his eldest son. “As will you when the time comes. A marriage
between our two houses will remove the suspicion from me.”
“And what is it you would have me do Adar?” (Father) He asked, his eyes
narrowing as he watched the play of expressions chase themselves across his
fathers’ face.
“Tomorrow is the last day of the festival, I trust you will be in attendance?”
He replied, ignoring his sons’ question for the most part.
“When the council convenes Thranduil intends to appoint the little wench as
Commander over the Forest Patrol.” He continued when his son only nodded. “As
if the physical confrontation in his study was not enough, this will drive a
wedge further within the royal house.”
“I am not as confident as you that he will bend to any demands.” Lord Ortäuré
said quietly as he studied his father. “Many have tried in the past only to
suffer the consequences of his wrath.”
“This I believe he will do.” Lord Tirithiáël chuckled, his eyes almost dancing
as he smiled at him. “The only reason he wants to abolish the hereditary oath
is so he can have her to himself.”
“Oh come now.” He laughed throatily as he watched his sons’ brow raise high on
his forehead. “Anyone paying attention can see the fool is in love with her.
Which is why you will make sure she is never returned to the Woodland Realm.”
“You cannot be serious?!” Lord Ortäuré blurted in disbelief, nearly dropping
his goblet.
“You will do as you’re told!” Lord Tirithiáël exclaimed angrily. “It is
improper but Oviëdós’ betrothal to Lady Cëänielóra will secure the support of
the Silvan elves but I will secure the throne through your betrothal to Lady
Cäthdéirÿn. See to it that you pay special attention to her this evening, now
leave me.”
“Ben iest gîn, hîr vuin.” (As you wish, my lord) He spat angrily as he pushed
himself up from the chair.
Turning his gaze away from the retreating form of his son, Lord Tirithiáël
stared into the flames of the hearth. He had waited many long years for the
tides to finally turn in his favor and one little Silvan elf wench was not
going to stop him now. The only two obstacles in his way were Lord Garävegión
and the Lady Laurefindë and they were unfortunately too close to the king for
his comfort. Already there were far too many Silvan elves sitting on the
council and acting as advisors to the king for his liking.
A slight smile curled his lips as he lifted the goblet to his mouth. He may
have referred to him as a fool for allowing the elleth (elf maiden) to steal
his heart, but Tirithiáël knew better. Thranduil was not so easily swayed from
his responsibilities to the throne. He recognized it for the tactic it was, by
allowing the rumors to spread that he was considering abandoning the hereditary
oath he would definitely further endear him to the Silvan elves. However, there
was still the problem of the younger nobles and their proclivity for abandoning
the old ways of duty and honor.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
“So, you actually told her everything?” Gilaiwë said quietly, her dark blue
eyes dancing with the laughter she managed to hide from her voice as she stared
at him from over the rim of her wine glass.
“Yes I did.” Thranduil sighed, yet he smiled as he gave her that look that told
her he really did not want to talk about it before turning to look out over the
ballroom as the minstrels began to play again.
“Oh no you are not getting out this dear one.” She laughed softly, noting the
slight color creep from beneath the collar of his formal robes.
“We discussed a great many things.” He stated, his gaze flickering quickly over
Tauriel as Lord Elvändéruil drew her once more onto the floor. “It would seem
that my private matters have not been kept so private.” He added, arching a
brow as he turned back toward her.
“Not I!” She exclaimed yet could not help chuckling at his obvious
embarrassment. “I take it she already knew about Galion as well?” She asked,
shifting uncomfortably beneath his irritated gaze.
“I am not sure if this is merely the calm before the storm.” He said quietly,
pulling on his mask as he turned back toward the ballroom. “I tried talking to
her once before and only succeeded in angering her.” He commented, smiling as
he nodded toward Lord Garävegións’ daughter, the Lady Saélihn as he briefly met
her gaze.
“She was not yet ready to hear it.” Gilaiwë said almost to herself as she
followed his gaze out onto the ballroom floor. “It is good that she has
Elvändéruil to lean on, he already follows her everywhere.” She added as she
watched the two of them together.
“They have been friends for many years.” Thranduil said, turning his attention
toward one of the tables closest to where his son stood. “I have already spoke
with Laurefindë about appointing him as her personal guard once she assumes the
role of Commander of the Forest Patrol.”
“Are you sure that is necessary?” She asked, her eyes widened slightly as all
thoughts of picking on him faded when she noticed the strained expression on
his face.
“Within the week I will discuss things with Aldalómë and select others whom I
trust to watch out for her.” He said, forcing a smile as he turned back to her,
his gaze staring deeply into hers. “I have brought her into a world she knows
nothing about. She will be easy prey for those who seek to control me.”
“Thranduil...”
“I have felt it for some time now.” He quietly interrupted her as he picked up
his goblet, taking a long drink. “I have yet to learn who is behind it but I
will not take chances that any harm come to her because of me.”
“Tóriôn and I can remain here as long as you need us.” She told him as she
reached over, giving his hand a firm squeeze.
“It would be nice to have you stay.” He said, flashing her a genuine smile as
he patted her hand. “It has been good to have so many back in my halls again,
it has been a long time.” He added as he turned his gaze once more to scan the
ballroom.
Chapter End Notes
     Thanks for reading!!!
     I’m only working on one story now so I am hoping to be able to post
     new chapters more quickly as I personally really want to finish this
     story myself! But I don’t want to rush it at the expense of the story
     itself.
End Notes
     Thanks for reading! I frequently use Sindarin words in my writing and
     try to put the English translation in parenthesis immediately
     afterward. I also use terms that require longer translations and
     rather than bog down the reading, the translation/explanation will
     always be provided in the End Notes for that specific chapter.
     Comments are always welcome! Thanks!
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