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tkwrtrilogy2 · 8 years ago

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Chapter V: The Fall of Dol Guldur (Pt. IV)

“Once the children were taken away, two guards approached me and bowed as I rose. I knew what they had come. I nodded and followed them away to a spacious garden where lantern lit paths led to monuments to the past. In front of a stone figure stood Aurëwyn waiting for me.

“Your Majesty,” she said. “You wished to speak with me.”

“So it is true,” I said. “You know the language of the elves.”

“Yes,” she said. “My grandfather learned it from his brother’s wife.”

“Arímë,” I said. “She was the cousin of my late wife Êlúriel.”

“I know,” she said. “My grandfather spoke of it often. He was proud to have an Elda in the family. He died when I was very young.”

“You have my sympathy,” I said softly, looking at the stone figure.

“You knew my husband’s ancestor,” she said. “His namesake.”

“I did.”

“What is it like to have lived for so long,” she asked.

“As any other creature,” I answered. “Only longer.”

She smiled and began walking down a path into a lower area. Curiously, I followed her. Beneath ornate stone arches covered in vine, I realized tombs surrounded us. She stood before one that had Arímë Gildúriel carved into the marble.

“I know you wanted to come,” she said. “To see her one last time before you leave tomorrow. If she were still here I am sure she would have wanted to see you again. Good night, Your Majesty.”

She smile once more and disappeared into the darkness of the palace. I stood alone for a moment looking at the face of the stone in thought—thinking of Nenduîl and Tárimë. I wish she could see how much they had grown. I had lived longer than I wanted and seen far more than I needed. I touched the stone. It was colder than the night but not without its own eternal beauty.

“I knew I would find you here,” I heard Fëaluin say from behind.

“Of course you would, Fëaluin,” I answered. “I am sure you convinced Aurëwyn to bring me here.”

“How else would you have found your way,” he asked. “Dale is different than it once was centuries ago.”

“All things are different than they once were,” I said. “Tomorrow will be different than today. What will never change is us.”

“You have changed greatly,” he said. “For the better, I must say. No longer the pampered son of a king. Now you are a father and a king.”

“I was never pampered. You have me confused with Elranduil.”

“No,” he said. “If I am not mistaken, you were quite a handful. That is what mother told me and Fínduin after spending a day with you.” . I looked at the tomb once more.

“Namárië, Arímë Gildúriel,” I whispered. “Pedathon i narn an Nenduîl and Tárimë.”

I turned away and walked with Fëaluin through the gardens and to our quarters in the palace.

**** **** **** ****

At dawn, the whole of Erebor and Dale had come to see us off. Thorin, Dwalin and Glóin stood before us beside Bard and Aurëwyn.

“It has been an honored with your visit,” Bard began. “Though I wish it had been under better circumstances, Your Majesty.”

“It is I that is honored,” I said. “You and Thorin have been the most gracious of hosts.”

Before another word was said, Bain and Durin ran to me.

“Must you leave now,” Bain asked.

“I am afraid so,” I said.

“Here,” Durin said handing me something. “This is for you.”

It was small dragon carved out of wood. For its size, it was rather detailed in its features.

“Thank you, Durin,” I said smiling. “I will treasure it always.”

“I know I will hear from you again, Your Majesty,” Dwalin said.

“I am sure of it,” Glóin said. “If I know my Gimli.”

“Then Legolas is in good company,” I said.

I mounted my horse and rode away beside Elranduil with Fëaluin and Nimlos close behind. As we rode out of the city gates there was much fanfare from men and dwarves alike. I looked forward to my return home, but for the first time, I was leaving a place I wanted to stay longer.

“I am going to miss them,” I said.

“Who are you,” Elranduil asked. “Where is my cousin? I have never known you to miss man or dwarf in you lifetime.”

“I missed Aûrvar,” I said. “He was pleasant from what I remember. Though few men I have missed, I was rather fond of Bard of Esgaroth.”

“I look forward to the day when we are at peace,” Nimlos said. “That has yet to come to fruition. Until that day, my concerns lie with our people in the south.”

“Never mind those once more facing the gates of Barad-Dûr,” Fëaluin said. “There is still darkness in that must be destroyed.”

“It will be,” I said. “I believe it will be this time.”

We rode the rest of the way in silence. Before long we had arrived at the gates of my palace. We dismounted and our horses taken away in time for Nenduîl and Tárimë to come running to me.

“Ada,” they said embracing me.

“You are home,” Tárimë said.

“Yes, I am,” I said. “Were you good?”

“I was,” Nenduîl said.

“So was I,” Tárimë said.

Looking at Eldôr’s expression, I was tempted to think otherwise.

“Uncle,” I said. “Are you well?"

“Next time, I am going with you. No matter where it is,” he said.

Elranduil laughed as he embraced his father. Nimlos led Nenduîl and Tárimë into the palace with Fëaluin.

“Any word while we were gone,” I asked.

“No,” he said. “It is starting to worry me.”

“I would think no word would be a good thing,” Elranduil said. “Perhaps there will be little need for another battle.”

“That will not happen,” Eldôr said. “Of all the glamhoth we killed, one was seen to have survived and made his way to Dol Guldur. If they were none left, he would have not gone back the way he came and maiming a few of our own. None mortally, thankfully.”

“Then we wait,” I said. “We will be prepared for anything.”

We walked into the palace together. In my hand, I held Durin’s little dragon tightly—my mind on what I knew was about to come.”--Excerpt from TKWR Book III: To Eryn Lasgalen by J.M.Miller 01-22-17

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extendedtkwrtrilogyend · 7 years ago

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Chapter XXV: (EXT) Battle in the North (Pt. II)

“I entered my study filled with my council and my commanders stoically waiting for me. As they bowed, Fëaluin took his place at my side by my table with the princes of the realm. I took my seat and motioned to Eldôr.

“His Majesty will lead small few warriors against the orcs at the borders, but the rest will leave before the sun rises toward Dol Guldur and await the elven forces from Lothlórien.”

“Who will lead them,” Nimlos asked.

“Tarthôn,” I said. “And with him will go Ardôr, Orísil, Aruilos and Elendôr.”

Tarthôn looked at me and nodded.

“Once our fight is done, we will join you,” Eldôr continued.

“And who will protect the palace then,” Elendôr asked.

“The guard, of course,” Fëaluin answered. “There is no need to engage them unless there is a direct threat.”

“My brother and I will see to that,” Elenadar said. “Do not worry for your family. Concern yourself with your return. You will stand against an evil like no other. Save your strength and your thoughts on that.”

The doors of the study opened and closed and voices were heard speaking in whispers. I stood up as for elves walked out of the shadows and stood before me. I looked at Fëaluin—his face fell into his hands.

“Oh no,” he whispered.

Before us stood Sîrandor, Sîrandír and their twin cousins Sílrandor and Sûlrandír.

“My sons,” Elenatar and Elenadar said approaching their children.

“Your Majesty,” Sílrandor began. “We have returned to fight. The words of war are on the lips of everyone.”

“Even in Mithlond,” Sûlrandír said.

“Does your mother know you have returned,” Elenadar asked.

“Yes, Ada,” Sîrandír answered. “She and Elenlúin have long since sailed.”

“We did not come alone,” Sîrandor said.

“We came together, Sîrandor,” Sílrandor said.

“You know what he means, Brother,” Sûlrandír answered.

“Please, do not stand so close to one another,” Fëaluin said. “Any one of you.”

“Sorry, Ada,” Elenatar said as the stepped away aside. From behind them Êlenuil stepped forward and bowed reverently.

“Êlenuil,” Ardôr said.

“Yes, Ada,” he said. “I have returned to fight beside my brother and my king.”

Elranduil looked at me—a smile slowly crossing his face as he attempted to conceal it from everyone. I came from my place and stood before Êlenuil. I looked at him and thought of his children sleeping in their room not far from mine. I was proud of him but could not find the words.

“Then you will ride with your brother,” I said.

He smiled and bowed and went to his father and brother happily.

I motioned for Tatháron to come. He came quickly.

“You know what I will ask of you,” I whispered. “Do it quickly.”

He bowed and left quickly.

“Where have you sent Tatháron,” Fëaluin asked quietly.

“To fetch something for Êlenuil,” I said. “He will need it far more than I will.”

I looked around the room the elves in my presence. I knew them all since my youth and others since I became king. As they spoke among themselves, I thought about things my father had told me. I had seen so much—through part of one age and nearly all of another. I knew then I would return home again one last time from the field of battle.

“Let us not tarry any longer,” I said. “As I speak an army of orcs march toward our gates. They are not the first but they will be the last. Tarthôn, I would like a word with you. Everyone else to your place.”

As the room emptied, Tarthôn stood before me.

“Yes, Ada,” he asked. “What did you wish to say to me?”

“I wished to say that you will see me again,” I said. “When I ride to you toward Dol Guldur.”

“I know,” he said. “And I will fight beside you as my father before me. I look forward to that moment.”

“I look forward to the moment you return home to your family,” I said. “Should I not return, it is you that should welcome your brother home in my place.”

“No,” he said.

“Do as I ask, Tarthôn,” I said.

“No,” he said. “I will not do what you will be able to do on your own. You will return home. You always have and you always will. When we return, we can both be here to welcome Legolas home.”

I embraced him tighter than I had before as I felt tears come to my eyes. I had no words that could express the pride I felt for Tarthôn in that moment. I remembered the first time I held him as an infant and every moment thereafter but none as powerful as that moment. I did not want to let him go, but I did slowly.

“I will see you soon,” he said as he bowed. “Until then, Namárië.”

He turned and left quickly. I stood alone waiting for my servants to bring my armor. When the door opened again it was Êlenuil.

“Yes, Êlenuil,” I said.

“How are my children,” he asked softly. “I wanted to know before I went into battle.”

“You know where they sleep,” I said. “Why not go to them. I am sure they would want to see you. I know you want to see them.”

“Let them sleep,” he said. “I just want to know how they are.”

“They are very well,” I said. “They are growing quickly as children will.”

“Should I live, I will return to Mithlond, Thranduil,” he began. “I still carry her memory in my mind and I am afraid my children will make it worse.”

“You wish me to pretend I never saw you this day or any other,” I asked. “You do not want your children to know you fought valiantly for them and this kingdom?”

“No,” he said. “I know you, Thranduil. You will speak of it to them no matter what I ask. It is not in your nature to keep anything from anyone.”

“I keep many things to myself,” I answered. “It is just never the truth.”

“I ask this because I know I will see them again,” he said. “But not in this world. This world has taken from me many things I do not care to remember.”

“It has for me as well, Êlenuil,” I answered. “Many things I have lost and do not care to remember. But I do remember. I have to remember because should I forget, I will not know what I am fighting to keep. This world has taken my father, my friends and more of my people than I can count. But it also has given me my father, my friends and my people. I lived with them and loved them and they gave me strength to live long after they were gone. You have everything to lose for your fear of remembering what you lost rather than what you have left.”

“I am not as strong as you,” he said. “You are the great Thranduil. They speak of you beyond these borders with such fervor. There is no one quite like you in all of Arda. Not among elven nor men nor dwarves. There will never be a star that will rise or fall brighter than you. Not even the Everstar. All I ask is you not tell Nenduîl and Tárimë I was not here so that they can remember the father that left them never to return.”

“You told them you would never return, did you not,” I asked.

“Yes,” he said.

“I will not tell them that I saw you or even said your name,” I began. “But if I grant you that request, then you will grant me one as well.”

“Anything,” he said.

“You will not leave this world without your children.”

He stared at me—his eyes filled with tears that did not fall until that moment. I knew he could not refuse my request—not one given by his king.

“When the time comes, I will send them to Mithlond and then you will sail with them into Aman. Do I have your word?”

He nodded slowly as the doors opened again with my servants carrying my armor.

“I will see you at Dol Guldur,” I said. “Go see Tatháron. He has something for you.”

He bowed and left as Fëaluin, Eldôr, Elranduil and Nimlos returned while I was being dressed. Eldôr was in his armor as he always had been before a battle. “I know better than to ask why Êlenuil left in fear for his life,” Elranduil said. “He will tell Ardúin and I will hear it eventually.”

“Sîrandor, Sîrandír, Sílrandor and Sûlrandír will join the palace guard and will stay behind with me,” Fëaluin said as he rolled scrolls together quickly. “Please return quickly. I love my grandsons very much but I can only be around them for so long before I will lose what sanity I have left.”

“I will return for you as soon as I can then,” I answered. “I cannot have the head of my council lose what sanity he has left.”

“Or what he was born with,” Elranduil said to himself.

“Elranduil,” Eldôr said.

Nimlos laughed as he stood before me.

“So here we are again,” he said. “Off to fight another battle. I must say, I never thought I would enjoy fighting beside you but that was before I got to know you.”

“You mean before you got to know Elranduil,” I said.

“Thranduil,” Eldôr said looking over a scroll.

“At least I can hit a moving target with an arrow,” Elranduil said as servants began to dress him and Nimlos.

“The trees never fared well with Thranduil around,” Fëaluin said handing off a scroll to a guard.

“Fëaluin,” Eldôr began. “This is why I returned. None of you have changed since you were children.”

“Thranduil has,” Elranduil said. “He has gotten taller.”

Nimlos and Fëaluin laughed as Elmîr entered.

“Yes, Elmîr,” I said as servants began to leave one by one after finishing their task.

“Aradin has taken the north side of the river,” he said. “Father and I will remain with you from here to Dol Guldur. Aramír, Aramoth, Findôl, and Sildôr will take North, South, East and West. Nînuir has accompanied Tarthôn and the others to Dol Guldur. Eldúir will stay to defend the palace. Árelë sent word of a force of Easterlings seen moving toward Dale from the south. Better cover ourselves on all sides.”

“Thank you, Elmîr,” I said.

We stood in silence as the last of the servants left and we stood dressed in our armor looking at one another. I took a deep breath.

“Look after my children until I return, Fëaluin,” I said. “Look after Êlúriel.”

“Yes, Thranduil,” he said.

“Once more,” I said. “Let us fight once more.”

Eldôr, Elranduil, Nimlos and Elmîr followed me out of my study and into the hall toward the main gates. As they opened for us, I could see that dawn had not yet come. We walked into the darkness—the air still crisp and cool and not yet filled with the rancid stench of orcs but the sound of their feet had begun to shake the earth beneath our feet. We would take them face-to-face and ride later to Dol Guldur. Armored elven warriors stood prepared to fight again.

We took our positions at the furthest distance west of the bridge and waited for darkness to fade into the light of day. We waited patiently for our first battle during the War of the Ring to begin.

The dawn seemed to come slowly but the anticipation had risen before with the sounds of orcs marching through the forest—their monstrous feet crushing the earth beneath them. I nodded and Elranduil and Eldôr to take position. We planned to surround them and kill all that dared to march upon Mirkwood. I could hear the faint sound of the archers pulling their bowstrings from across the Forest River.

As the sun’s first light, the glamhoth broke through the trees. Arrows flew through the air as our two armies began fighting fiercely. No sooner had I put down one, another appeared in his place. For hours there was nothing but the sound of metal clashing and battle cries until silence had fallen. I stood wading in the corpses of orcs—not one elf did I see. I began to worry that I was the last to survive.

“It is done,” I heard a distant voice say. “Decidedly so, Father.”

I looked to see Elranduil and Eldôr approaching—their armor covered in orc blood.

“Do not think this is over,” Eldôr said.

��Nimlos,” I cried. “Where are you?”

I looked in every direction and saw only figures shrouded in the mists of dusk. I began to fear the worst as I fell to my knees and started pushing the dead aside in a futile search.

“Thranduil,” a voice said. “What are you doing?” It was Elranduil standing with Elmîr.

“I am looking for Nimlos,” I said frantically.

“Why would I be down there,” Nimlos asked.

I quickly turned to see him standing at my right beside Sildúr. I sighed deeply as I rose to my feet.

“I thought you had fallen,” I said.

“When that day comes, I will tell you,” Nimlos said smiling.

“How did we fare, Father,” Elmîr asked.

“Very well,” Sildúr answered. “There are wounded but none shall die.”

I sheathed my sword and wearily headed for the palace. At the end of the bridge, I saw the gates open—the last thing I remember before I fainted.

**** **** **** ****

It was night when I returned to consciousness. I was laying on my bed my chest in pain, dressed tightly around me.

“How are you feeling,” I heard Fëaluin say from across the room.

“He will live,” Êlúriel said as she stroked my hair.

“What happened,” I asked.

“You were victorious,” he said. “As to be expected. I noticed you were missing a piece of your armor. That would explain your wound. It was not deep but you lost enough blood to faint.”

“I gave my mithril to Êlenuil,” I said slowly sitting upright. “He needed it far more than me.”

He walked to the foot of the bed and stood looking at me—his face lost in thought.

“I thought you did something of the sort,” he said. “You are just like Oropher.”

“How do you mean, Fëaluin,” I asked. “How am I like my father?”

“He gave his to you so long ago,” he said. “The difference is you survived to see another day but even Oropher would not have been surprised. You are a worthy warrior.”

“I almost died,” I said, my thoughts trapped in the past. “I could have died.”

“You did not die and you will not die, I am sure of it.”

“He will never die,” Êlúriel said. “He is too stubborn.”

He walked to the door and paused for a moment.

“Do you feel well enough to receive company,” he asked.

“Yes,” I answered. “Who calls for me?”

He smiled and tapped the doors. One cracked open enough for Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin to slip inside.

“You are alive,” Tárimë said happily as she and brother ran to embrace me.

I winced in pain as Fëaluin smiled and left us with the children.

“Yes, I am, Tárimë,” I said. “But do be careful.”

“Very careful, children,” Êlúriel said. “He is wounded.”

“You came back as you said,” Nenduîl said, climbing on the bed with his sister. “I knew you would return.”

“You did not,” Tárimë said. “You spent the day crying like a little child. I told you he would return but you did not believe me.”

“I did not cry,” he said quietly. “That was Aranduil.”

“Was not,” she said.

“You are not died,” Eärluin said, poking me.

“It does not matter now,” I said trying hard not to laugh. “I am here now and it is late. Time for bed.”

“Can we stay with you, Ada,” Tárimë asked sweetly. “We can look after you.”

“Your Ada needs his rest,” Êlúriel said. “You may see him tomorrow.”

“Yes, Nana” they said sadly, hanging their little heads as they climbed down from the bed and walked slowly to the door.

“They can stay for a little while,” I whispered to Êlúriel.

“Are you not afraid to wake up and have their husbands and wife between us,” she whispered back. “You may stay for a little while.”

The children turned around and excitedly returned and curled up around me.

“Wake us up should you need to,” Nenduîl said in a commanding tone. “And we will ring the servants for you.”

They had made up their minds and started to nestle on either side of me. I couldn’t help but smile as I watched them fall asleep. I closed my eyes for moment thinking about all that had happened. I looked at Êlúriel sitting on the bed next to Tárimë, smiling at me.

“Êlúriel, I love you,” I whispered.

“I love you more, Thranduil,” she said.

“That is not possible,” I said.

She leaned over and kissed me again.

“Welcome home,” she said.

“It is good to be home,” I said. “Very good.”––TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 12-20-17

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tkwrtrilogy2 · 8 years ago

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Chapter VI: From Mirkwood to Eryn Lasgalen: Legolas’ Return (Pt. V)

“It was dawn when I stood with my court on the bridge to bid farewell to Celeborn, Galathil and Galadriel. Beside me stood Elranduil and Ëarmîr, who earlier had a private moment with Galathil and Celeborn before becoming a member of my court. I was curious as to why he was required to stay, however, the time to inquire would come.

“Your Majesty,” Haldir began. “It has truly been a pleasure. My brothers and I have never felt more at home outside Lothlórien in a long time.”

“Think nothing of it,” I said. “You are welcome always in my kingdom.”

“We shall see you again,” Galadriel began, giving me a gentle kiss on my cheek. “Beyond these borders you will one day find your way. Do not tarry.”

I smiled at her; perplexed by her words. Celeborn and Galathil smiled as Isílion and Tárion approached.

“The warriors are ready to return to Lothlórien, My Lords and Lady,” Isílion said. “All has been prepared.”

“See your way home,” Celeborn said to me.

He embraced me one last time and took Galadriel’s hand and went the length of the bridge to their horses. Galathil followed close behind. When everyone was upon their steeds, the elves of Lothlórien left Eryn Lasgalen.

“So, Ëarmîr,” I began. “What task has been given you that you are left in my charge as a new member of my court?”

“You will know soon enough, Your Majesty,” he said softly. “For now, you should take pleasure in your new kingdom and its expanded borders.”

“So I shall,” I said. “And I shall have Fëaluin find you a place in council.” We entered the palace and the days that came thereafter would be filled with wonders.

**** **** **** ****

Months went by with little fanfare—as the entire kingdom began to become accustomed to a peaceful existence. So many years had gone by where we stood guard and waited for evil to come upon us, even the twitter of birds frightened us whenever one would snap a twig under foot.

One day, I decided to go for a ride with Nenduîl and Tárimë. The care of the royal children was given to Ëarmîr by Fëaluin and he was quite adept at caring for them much to the consternation of Nenduîl and Aranduil. Ëarmîr began to find his place and a friend in Tárimë who adored hearing stories from the court of Lady Galadriel. She had started to grow into young lady wanting to become as elegant and graceful as all the elven maidens of the past.

As I was looking forward to spending the day away from court, Elranduil and Eldor approached me with Tarthôn and Nimlos as I emerged from my chambers.

“Come quickly,” Eldôr said. “Fealuin is at the front gate.”

“Why,” I asked. “Something amiss?”

“A rider approaches,” Elranduil said. “Come quickly.”

We hurried ourselves toward the front gates and into the crisp morning. I could see from a distance lone rider making his way toward us.

“Who is it, Ada,” I heard Nenduîl ask as he ran to my side with his sister and cousin.

I could see who it was and I felt a smile cross my face with eager anticipation.

“Legolas,” I said to myself. “It is Legolas.”

When his horse stopped at the foot of the bridge, he dismounted as servants helped his companion—a dwarf warrior—down to the ground. Legolas slowly approached me I made my way to him. When were standing in front of one another, we both seemed lost in the sight of one another.

“Ada,” he finally said. “I told you I would return to you.”

I could not contain my joy and embraced him tightly.

“My son,” I whispered to him. “My son. Welcome home.”

I did not want to let him go. My son—my heir—was home at last. When I finally released him, beside us stood the dwarf that arrived with him. He bowed eloquently as any prince would to a king. In his face, I recognized another.

“Ada, this is Gimli, son of Glóin,” Legolas said. “He is a friend and one of the Fellowship.”

“So I have heard,” I said. “I was fortunate to have met his father not long before in Dale when I attended the burial of King Dáin of Erebor. It is an honor to meet you Gimli, son of Glóin.”

“And I you, Your Majesty,” Gimli said smiling through his wooly beard cheerfully. “You are not as fearsome as they said.”

“I am glad to hear it,” I said. I could hear Elranduil and Nimlos hiding their laughter behind me as Tarthôn approached.

“Welcome home, brother,” he said to Legolas, embracing him. “Good to have you home once more.”

“It is good to be home,” Legolas answered. “I told Gimli all about you.”

“I feel as I have known you all my life,” Gimli said. “Wait until you hear about me.”

Everyone broke into laughter.

“Are you a real dwarf,” I heard Nenduîl ask as he and Aranduil looked him over curiously.

“I hope so,” he answered. “If I am not, my father will be quite disappointed.”

“Nenduîl, Aranduil,” Ëarmîr scolded. He had arrived in time to save me from my thoughts as I recalled Durin asking me if I were a real elf.

They looked at him and then at me.

“He is a real dwarf,” I answered. “He is welcomed to stay with us as long as he would like. He is a friend of Legolas. You will behave, will you not?”

“Of course, Ada,” Nenduîl said. “We will.”

“Very well, then,” I said. “Fealuin, show our guest a place to rest. He must be weary from his travels. I wish to speak to my sons alone for a moment, if I may.”

"As you wish,” Fealuin answered as he motioned to Gimli to follow him and everyone inside.

“It is good to have my sons with me again,” I said. “Together. I am very proud of both of you and all you have done for this world and your kingdom. I do not think there is father in all of Arda as glad as me.”

“Ada has become more sentimental since I have been away,” Legolas said smiling.

“Worse,” Tarthôn said. “Far worse.”

I embraced my sons and then we made our way into palace. Everything was once again as it should be.”––Excerpt from TKWR Book III: To Eryn Lasgalen by J.M.Miller 05-14-17.

Images: ©2001, 2002, 2003. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. All Rights Reserved.

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iamjaynaemarie · 7 years ago

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Where to start: Thranduil speaks with Êlenuil who leaves for the Undying Lands alone without his children. Thranduil learns from Nenduîl that he calls Êlúriel “nana”. Thranduil upset his wife and on his way to apologize, runs into Eärluin who wants “Ada” to tuck her in. Feeling played, he has a moment with his wife. Not long after, Thranduil is told of rumblings coming from Khazâd-dûm (Moria). Told to his Marchwardens by Aiwendil (Radagast), it is suspected to be a Valarauko (Balrog). They speak of Curunír (Saruman) laying waste to Angrenost (The Ring of Isengard) and talk about Gorthaur (Sauron) and Morgoth (Melkor). Guards enter with the wounded by Easterlings in the south on their way to Erebor and Dale (The Second Battle of Dale that will happen soon) and minor confusion occurs when Fëaluin has to deal with his two sets of identical twin grandsons by his twin sons Elenadar and Elenatar: Sîrandír and Sîrandor, sons of Elenadar and Súlrandír and Sílrandor, sons of Elenatar. Great time to check out that Appendix if you have it. If you don’t, one is coming. ☺️

Chapter XXIII: (EXT) Êlenuil Everstar (Pt. I)

Beneath the waning sky of coming night

Far away shines a distant light

One whose rise tells of days gone by

Of all of elven memories lie.

“When dawn had risen, I was in my study watching the falls and listening to the roar of the waters. I knew that Arímë and Haldúir had already left for Dale as I prepared for the day.

“Thranduil,” I heard my name called. “May I have a word.”

“Yes, Êlenuil,” I answered. “Speak.”

“They have departed,” he said. “Súlelenth’s parents.”

“And you saw them away,” I asked.

“Yes. So did Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin. They seemed sad to see them leave. They had just begun to know them. Perhaps they should see them again some time.”

“No,” I answered, turning around. “Never will they see them again. I will never see them again.”

“Nor will I,” he said softly. “I wish to leave for Mithlond at the end of the day.” “With whom will you travel,” I asked. “Your father? Your brother?”

“Alone.”

“You would leave your children with me then travel so far a distance alone, Êlenuil? Do you know the dangers you could face?”

“I know,” he said. “But I travel alone as far as Rivendell.”

I looked at him curiously, but did not inquire about what he meant.

“Have you spoken to your children,” I asked.

“I have,” he said. “I am afraid Nenduîl is angry with me. He does not believe that I love him. Tárimë seems wise beyond her years and said not a word. Eärluin does not understand.”

“She is young,” I said. “Nenduîl will recover in time. Tárimë is much like Êlúriel. She sees a great many things. Perhaps she knows your heart better than you.”

“Just like her mother,” he said. “You believe me when I say I will miss them, Thranduil?”

“Yes, I do,” I answered. “I know why you leave. I wish I could have left after I lost my father but I did not have the choice you have. I was heir to the throne. No one but me could sit on that throne. Not even your grandfather. I was the son of Oropher, King of Eryn Galen. I was born to rule this kingdom. He was its first king and I will be its last. I have ruled this kingdom for nearly three thousand years. Should I leave, I will leave as the last elven king in all of Arda, for there will never again rule another elven king in this world. I find solace in this because I have lived through many perils and though I often lost hope, I never lost my strength. In that strength, hope did arise. Whether I see you again, I do not know, but you will see your children again. I want them alone to see my mother and tell her that her son remains on the throne of his father.”

He bowed and left me alone once more. I thought about my own words for a moment. How far I had come in my life and how much I had lost and gained over time that passed so quickly for elves yet for other creatures, many generations since I came to the throne had passed and all that I known to be true was legend to them. To me, it had started to become something of a myth. My life was the only relic that was left as evidence of the truth.

**** **** **** ****

When dusk had begun to fall, I stood with the court and the Princes of the Woodland Realm to see Êlenuil on his way. At my side stood Êlúriel and his children with the rest of our family. As he rode westward, the violet hues of the coming night began to uncover the stars above. Though the Misty Mountains obscured much of the sky, the unmistakable evening star in the west shone brightly as another was rising in the East with the moon.

Watching Êlenuil riding away took me back to the day I watched my mother leave our kingdom forever. I wondered when I would take my final journey to Mithlond and sail away to the Undying Lands. Many elves had begun taking their final journey since the flames of Mordor had risen again. My kingdom once again looked as a desolate wasteland—hollow and void of color. Autumn had come as cold as winter and the world felt the chill of evil looming.

Once inside my study, I began to read many things left to me by my father. I searched for anything that might bring some light to darkness. As long as I had lived, never had I known such evil—far stronger than what I had fought at Dagorlad. I thought of Legolas going into the world to fight what men, elves and dwarves once tried to destroy. To lose my son would put me in the ground beside my father. I found a dreadful peace in that thought and it frightened me. If thoughts of death were more inviting than life, then the world was far darker than it ever had been.

As I sat alone reading into the night, the door opened and Nenduîl came in. It was unusual to see him without his sister—they were extraordinarily close and had grown closer since their mother died.

“Why are you out of your chambers so late,” I asked barely looking away from my reading.

“I could not sleep,” he said. “I miss Nana.”

“You do not miss your father,” I asked.

“I cannot say for certain,” he answered stopping in the light of the candles on my table. “I am afraid I do not know him well at all.”

I put down my papers and looked at Nenduîl—his young face serious in thought like an old man remembering the past.

“You have known him since birth,” I answered curiously. “How can you not know him well?”

“Well, I meant to say, not as well as you,” he said. “And not as well I should have.”

“Come here,” I said. He walked to me and placed him on my lap. “Your father loves you very much, Nenduîl. He is very sad without your mother. That is why he went away.”

“I know,” he said. “He said he loved us, but I do not understand why he left us if that were true.”

“I wish I could tell you why,” I said. “I cannot know what was in his mind, but I am quite sure you, your sisters and your mother are in his heart.”

“You will not leave us, will you,” he asked.

“No,” I answered. “I will not leave you, Tárimë or Eärluin. Neither will Êlúriel. We are waiting for Legolas to return home. Then we will all be together again.”

“He will come back,” he said. “I know he will.”

“How are you so sure, Nenduîl,” I asked. “Did he tell you this?”

“No,” he said. “Nana told me.”

“Your Nana told you,” I asked.

“No,” he answered. “His Nana. She said she was our Nana, too.”

“The queen said this,” I asked.

“Yes,” he said. “She said she was our Nana now.”

“When did she say this,” I asked curiously.

“When Tárimë asked her,” he said. “She said we could call her Nana. Does that mean you are our Ada now?”

Before I could say another word, Êlúriel entered the room.

“There you are, Nenduîl,” she said. “Back to bed before your sister knows you have left.”

He looked at me and embraced me.

“Will I see you tomorrow,” he asked.

“Yes, Nenduîl. You will see me tomorrow.”

He climbed down and ran out of my study.

“What is this look you have, Thranduil,” Êlúriel asked. “Is something the matter?”

“Nenduîl says you are his Nana now,” I said slowly. “Did you tell them they could call you Nana?”

“Tárimë asked it of me,” she began. “She heard Eärluin call me ‘Nana’.”

“He wants to know if I am his Ada now,” I muttered.

“Thranduil,” she began. “Do not be angry.”

“You wish that we replace their parents,” I said, my voice growing louder.

“Of course not,” she said. “That would be impossible.”

“That would be implausible,” I said. “They should not be allowed to forget to whom they belong.”

“They do not wish to forget, Thranduil,” she began. “They want to feel they belong to a family again.”

“Is it not enough for you that Eärluin calls you ’Nana’,” I asked angrily. “Did it ever occur to you that I do not wish to be an ‘Ada’ again?”

I knew I should not have said that. I rose from my chair but it was too late—Êlúriel was in tears as she ran from my study in anguish. Before I could go after her, Fëaluin entered.

“What did you say this time,” he asked.

“You do not want to know,” I said. “It was wrong of me to say.”

“I can hardly imagine you saying anything wrong,” he said.

“I might have said I did not wish to be an ‘Ada’ again.”

He stood there with a disapproving look that made me uncomfortable.

“I did not mean it, Fëaluin,” I said softly. “I should go after her.”

“Unless you wish to spend your nights in your study alone until the queen wants to see you again.”

I looked at him for a moment; my mind frozen in thought. Suddenly, I ran swiftly into the hall and into Eldôr.

“Hello, uncle,” I said. “Pardon me.”

“She is in your chambers,” he said.

“Thank you,” I said and started in that direction. When I approached our doors, I noticed Eärluin sitting alone in the hall—her face contorted as if she were about to cry.

“Why are you alone in the hall,” I asked her as I picked her up. “It is late, Eärluin, far too late for you to be out of bed.”

“No,” she said. “I was looking for you, Ada.”

“Why were you looking for me,” I asked.

“To tuck me in, please,” she said playing with a lock of my hair.

“Did Linurial tuck you in already tonight,” I asked.

“Yes,” she said as she started to cry. “But I want you to do it, Ada.”

“Do not cry, Eärluin,” is said, walking toward the room she shared with Auríel. “I will tuck you in. Ada will tuck you in.”

When their doors opened, I entered quietly. Auríel was fast asleep; tightly holding on to her doll. Once I put Eärluin in her bed and tucked her in. She smiled.

“Everything is fine now,” I whispered. “Now Eärluin can go to sleep.”

“Yes,” she said. “So can Ada and Nana.”

She threw her arms around my neck and kissed me cheek. As she curled up and went to sleep, I walked into the hall.

“You are unrelenting, Êlúriel,” I said.

“Before you say another word,” she said walking to me from across the hall. “I had nothing to do with it. Linurial told me Eärluin had gone missing and we went looking for her.”

I gave Êlúriel my best look of skepticism.

“You do not believe me,” she asked.

“Eärluin said she can sleep now,” I began mockingly. “So can Ada and Nana.”

She laughed softly.

“Did she,” she asked.

“She did,” I said, as I leaned in and kissed her. “You had nothing to do with it?”

“No,” she whispered. “Nothing.”

We kissed again—forgetting the world around us.

“You, my dear, are a terrible liar,” I whispered.

“I am not,” she said smiling.

I smiled at her and made my way down the hall toward our room.

**** **** **** ****

Days had passed since I had spoken to Êlúriel and I had begun to put it out of my mind. The world had become unnaturally quiet—it was nearly too peaceful. My thoughts again turned to Legolas far away from home. I wondered if he was safe—away from all the dangers the world knew would come. Darkness had risen from Dol Guldur once more—far darker than before biding its time to strike.

Sildôr, Findôl, Aramír and Aramoth commanded Marchwardens to guard all corners of the kingdom from all directions. Findôl and Sildôr, returned to council with Târuil, son of Findôl to join as a younger generation of elves had replaced the elder guard. I kept all that I had known all my life close to me. Perhaps in fear of the unknown or because of what I knew, it brought some familiarity where I thought it lost to me.

I stood in my throne room alone looking over several maps of the Rhovanion, wondering when or where evil may come again when Findôl came to me with his brother and son. Târuil had grown into a striking elf, with long golden red hair deep blue eyes.

“Where is the queen,” Findôl asked.

“She is with Isílriel and the children,” I said. “What word do you bring to me from the borders?”

“Nothing,” Findôl said. “All is quiet. Save for a few creatures wandering about.” “In the east it always quiet,” Sildôr answered. “Not since the Battle of Dale have your guard had to worry. The western borders are a different matter altogether.”

“What is the matter,” I asked. “Have you heard from Beorn?”

“No, Your Majesty,” Târuil said softly. Not at all. But there were rumors passing of rumblings from the Misty Mountains coming forth from the direction of Khazâd-dûm.”

“What sort of rumblings,” I asked curiously. “Why would there be rumblings?”

“I could not say for sure,” he said. “But Randúmîr says that something lives there. As it was told to him by Aiwendil.”

“From Aiwendil,” I asked. “How fortunate we are to have Aiwendil hear something more than the twittering of birds. Enlighten me, please.”

“He suspects there may be any number of horrible creatures dwelling there,” Fëaluin said walking toward us with Eldôr and Elranduil. “I suspect orcs or trolls or something. But from what I gather, the quaking is far too great for even a horde of them.”

“It might be a Valarauko,” Eldôr said calmly. “Left behind after the Great Battle. They still linger, though not in great number. Aiwendil would know quite well if that what rumbles through the darkness. They were once the same.”

“You have to wonder if that led Thráin to Erebor,” Elranduil said. “Perhaps it is why the others were never seen again.”

“Balin,” Fëaluin said, peering at one of the maps. “Yes, I recall several dwarves passing this way not long after King Dáin had resettled Erebor. He was from the House of Durin, I believe. Cousin to Thorin Oakenshield. I am quite sure the did not fare well at all if such things reside within the mountains.”

“Whatever is there does not make Dol Guldur look any less frightening,” I said. “Though what remains from what left returned to Mordor.”

“Not every evil comes from Mordor,” Fëaluin said looking solemn. “Something makes waste of Angrenost and has for some time.”

“Curunír,” Eldôr whispered. “Of all to follow Gorthaur under the spell of Morgoth. This is a shadow not to be reckoned with nor an evil to underestimate.”

“How far below the earth can we dwell,” I asked. “We can go no further to save ourselves. We will have to fight as everyone in Arda. There is no haven left to hide.”

“We are safe for now,” Fëaluin said. “This is the quiet before the storm and we should be glad for it as war will find us soon enough.”

“I wish to send Ardúin away, but she refused to leave me,” Elranduil said.

“She is stubborn,” Aradin said walking over with Elmîr, Nînuir, Eldúir and Sildúr. “Just like her mother.”

“And her sister,” Fëaluin said smiling.

“Mother is like her sisters,” Târuil laughed. “But perhaps they can be persuaded.

“I do not think that is possible,” I said. “They have fallen in love, I am afraid.”

“Of course,” Elranduil said. “There is not a lady in court that does not love Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin. Even I find them somewhat tolerable.”

Eldôr poked Elranduil in the arm and glared at him.

“We must protect all of our children now,” I said. “I only my household to protect as Legolas is gone to save us all. Where is Tarthôn?”

“Here, Ada,” I heard him say walking toward me with Orísil, Ardôr and Aruilos. “I apologize for being absent.”

“It is fine,” I said. “So long as you are safe.”

“Not all of us,” Ardôr said. “One has fallen.”

“Aruilos,” Fëaluin asked in fear. “Is it your father?”

“No,” he answered. “He comes along with your sons.”

No sooner had he spoke did Nimlos come inside with Elenadar and Elenatar caring badly wounded Randúmîr. Behind them were Sîrandír and Sîrandor, the twin sons of Elenadar. Both had the long brown hair and silver blue eyes.

“Call for Arnîn,” Nimlos said.

“Will he survive,” Elmîr asked. “My niece will fall into despair if he were to die.”

“He will live,” Nimlos said. “But he may have lost some of his Marchwardens.” “What happened,” I asked as Arnîn came running to her husband with Linurial and Nimlúin.

“They were attacked,” Sîrandír answered.

“Orcs, again,” I asked.

“No,” Sîrandor quickly answered. “Easterlings. They were not many, but they were formidable.”

“Were you there,” I asked.

“Yes,” Sîrandír answered. “They were moving eastward from the direction of Dol Guldur. Why they were this far North, I do not know.”

“Call for my sons,” Elenadar said to Sîrandor. “I do not want them out there any longer.”

“Yes, Uncle,” he said and made his way out of the main gate.

“Take Randúmîr to his chambers,” Fëaluin said. “No need to have the court to see.”

Through the main gates came Aramír and Aramoth with Sîrandor followed by Sûlrandír and his twin brother, Sílrandor, the sons of Elenatar. Sîrandír ran to meet them. It was hard to tell between the two—even more so whenever they were with their twin cousins—their long golden brown hair and eyes as the color of mists of dusk their only discernible feature.

“It is over,” Aramoth said. “They have gone from our borders.”

“We did not lose anyone, Thranduil,” Aramír said. “But they are wounded badly. The rest are with Tatháron. If you will excuse me, I must see about daughter’s husband.”

I nodded as he and his brother made their way in the direction they carried Randúmîr. Nimlos stayed to speak with Aruilos.

“How long they will stay away,” Sûlrandír asked. “You think they will return, brother?”

“No,” Sílrandor answered. “They have Dale in their sights. But there are plenty of orcs.”

“Were you harmed,” Sîrandír asked. “You seem well.”

“As we are, brother,” Sîrandor said. “You look unharmed, Sûlrandír.”

“I am fine, Sîrandor,” he answered. Though Sílrandor had a rough time of it, did you not, brother?”

“I did not, Sûlrandír,” he scoffed. “That was you and Sîrandír having a rough time of it.“

“Please,” Fëaluin said to them. “Do not stand so close to one another. You know I cannot tell any of you apart.”

The four cousins stepped away from each other slowly.

“Sorry, Grandfather,” they said together.

“You are to blame, Fëaluin” I whispered. “You had to have twin sons that had twin sons.”

He glared at me and muttered something under his breath. I knew war was coming and evil would rise again, but in that moment I found myself trying desperately not to laugh.”––TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 12-17-17

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iamjaynaemarie · 7 years ago

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Actual battle. Thranduil gives his mithril to Êlenuil who returned to fight for his king and his kingdom and beside his brother Elendôr. He brought with him the nightmare cousins: Sílrandor and Súlrandír and their cousins Sîrandor and Sîrandír. Yeah, I won’t go into it. Thranduil is wounded but lives and learns his father gave him his own mithril to save his life at Dagorlad. He’s happily reunited with his littlest children and Êlúriel.