#how dare I forget Aragorn

[redmman]

“Grimes up good” characters will forever have my heart.

[enceladussubmarine]

Fanfic Recommendation!

Hi! If you are in any of the following fandoms:

lotr, star trek tos/aos, or og sherlock (also other related fandoms like lotro)

and you haven’t read anything by ThatSassyCaptain on ao3, do yourself a favor and give them a read! Every fic is a banger! Highlights include:

- How McCoy Got Adopted by an Entire Race of Sentient Canines: a mystery adventure exploring language barrier based prejudice and its consequences and very good doggies

- Baby Frodo and his 13 Dwarven Uncles: a hobbit retelling with immaculate characterization that takes into account culture based coping mechanisms and the many forms of grief as well as baby Frodo being an angel (in progress)

- Uhura and Chapel Kick Ass and Take Names: a high stakes mystery adventure once again exploring language barrier based prejudice and its consequences also uhura, chapel, and the author are incredibly clever people

- Sherlock Forgets to Bring his Doctor Along, Lives to Regret it: a very fun, *very* in character og Holmes mystery but written from the perspective of Holmes

- McCoy Isn’t in Kansas Anymore, He’s in Gondor (I bet you thought it was Karl urban but it’s deforest kelley!): I don’t know how to describe the plot of this one but the doc thinks Aragorn should shower and lady ioreth is a bamf (don’t know who she is? You will)

- Spock, Don’t You Dare Put On a Deerstalker Hat: an aos version of ‘wolf in the fold’ gone awry when bones and Spock run into Arthur Conan Doyle and turns into a very clever and well paced adventure with high stakes and hijinks galore

- By Golly I Sure Like Pie: something strange leaves McCoy as a charming young boy again, but keeping the well behaved gentleman alive may prove a challenge when this mystery takes a darker turn (featuring the most adorable ‘dinner date’ with uhura)

And so much more! Seriously, these fics are well paced, with good characterization, potent themes, and incredibly clever plots! Everything they write feels like it could blend seamlessly into canon it’s so well done! The Star Trek ones feel like real episodes!

(The real fics in order below, I’m on mobile and links aren’t working)

The Dog Days are Most Certainly NOT Over

A Twist in the Brandywine

Leave it to Us

Plans and Pitfalls

This Citadel Ain’t Big Enough for the Two of Us

Together, or Not at All

It Takes a Village

[juniperdugong]

Couple Costumes 96s ver.

What you guys would wear as a couple on Halloween and how they react!! || 95s || 96s || 97s || Maknae line || A/N: I tried to make these examples as inclusive as possible, if you don't like that THEN GET OUT! Also, the characters or costumes I mention DO NOT correlate to the boys' personalities and this is all just for some silly Halloween fun! I DO NOT OWN ANY OF THE ART, all credit goes to their respective artists!

Jun Phantom of the Opera/Vampires

He's ecstatic when you bring up costumes because he wanted to dress up but didn't know if you'd think of it as something too childish. But past that he doesn't even really know what he wants to be, completely forgetting the actual planning part of Halloween costumes.

Jun isn't one to shove off the idea of going all out for Halloween. Do you want to do historically accurate 1800s vampire? Well goddamnit, let's do it, baby! You wanna dress him up to the nines for a Phantom of the Opera costume? Hell yeah! He will not say no to showing you off or to showing himself off ever! If you focus on all the small details then he's going to praise your hard work and turn it out because we all know he serves cunt on the regular.

Trust~ That y'all are going to look like you are running a freaking red carpet or walking for MiuMiu in Milan or something. Even if you got a really shitty costume Jun would make it look like a photoshoot even if he tries to be funny with it.

Hoshi Tiger and Zookeeper/Cereal Mascots

I know I know... a little on the nose but can you blame me! It's literally his whole brand people! And I don't see him really wanting to dress up unless it is something related to his interests and personality, to be honest. He finds it a bit... silly- BEFORE YOU COME AT ME THOUGH, we have to remember that when the camera is off Soonyoung is actually quite introverted and quiet. Like my dude is pretty emotionless unless he's doing a bit, 3rd to Vernon and Minghao, low-key.

His reaction to you wanting to dress up would be a little something like, "I mean... Sure. If you want to, baby. ఇ ◝‿◜ ఇ". He's neither here nor there about it but he also isn't going to help much in the helping department either... and if we're being so real- His options if he could choose would be crazy without your help. I'm talking full fursuit with his human eyes visible or putting a damn cereal box on his head for the bit.

Agrees (reluctantly) with your picks.

(Why was it actually the hardest to find a good pick for a tiger costume on Pinterest? The closest I could get was this anime boy, just imagine that but simply more)

Wonwoo The Other Parents/American Psycho/LOTR

I hold a heavy belief that being an idol is holding Wonwoo back from true nerddom and that this man would 1000% be the hottest cosplayer of all time... that being said, I am surprisingly not going to give him any anime or video game costumes simply because we all know he would rock that shit.

Another heavy fantasy of mine is that Wonwoo totally has an alternative partner, I'm talking big into horror and alt fashion (ie. gothic fashion, grunge, etc.) So it would not at all come as a surprise to him when you suggest going as the other parents from Coraline or convince him to be the Patrick Bateman to your Evelyn Williams/Jean/Paul Allen. Another strong contender was him as Aragorn because he totally has Viggo Mortensen's smile, also imagine how cute you would be as Arwen!! Or just an elf in general lol

Woozi X-men/Teen Titans

You would think that Woozi wouldn't be into it... but I think he's super down if you're super down, honestly. This man tries to be soooo nonchalant but in reality he goes the extra mile for you and even enjoys doing it! Dare I say he would even do his own research to get you guys some good-quality costumes? I do dare because guess what? He absolutely would! He wants you guys to look the part and be comfortable doing it.

But! He is only passionate when it is a costume idea he is interested in... and thus when you bring up superheroes! Oh boy... yeah he's in.

Listen, I try not to hark on Woozi's height because he's my bias and it really doesn't matter but in this case, I just cannot get the fact out of my head that canon comic Wolverine is actually shorter than our Jihoon. My man would pull that off soooo well, especially because he's built like a semi-truck and we all know it! Plus I just love the idea of you going as literally any other X-men character because Logan is shipped with everyone lmao. And also, just to drop this because it's brain rotting me... Beast Boy and Raven (possibly gender-bent)

A/N: I'm not going to lie... I fucking love what I chose for the 96 line. My favorites go out to Wonwoo and Woozi though for what I would actually consider going as for Halloween lol. Who would you want to go with so far based on costumes?

Please Reblog and Comment if you enjoyed! (They act as power-ups for me)

Taglist (OPEN): @bemybabiibish @bath1lda @porridgesblog

[tathrin]

Yes! Let's not forget how they end up there:

There was great wonder, and many dark and doubtful glances, among his men, when Éomer gave orders that the spare horses were to be lent to the strangers; but only Éothain dared to speak openly.

‘It may be well enough for this lord of the race of Gondor, as he claims,’ he said, ‘but who has heard of a horse of the Mark being given to a Dwarf?’

‘No one,’ said Gimli. ‘And do not trouble: no one will ever hear of it. I would sooner walk than sit on the back of any beast so great, free or begrudged.’

‘But you must ride now, or you will hinder us,’ said Aragorn.

‘Come, you shall sit behind me, friend Gimli,’ said Legolas. ‘Then all will be well, and you need neither borrow a horse nor be troubled by one.’

Legolas and Gimli INVENTED “there was only one horse”

[spxnglr]

☎️ 𝙶𝙷𝙾𝚂𝚃𝙱𝚄𝚂𝚃𝙴𝚁𝚂, 𝚆𝙷𝙰𝚃 𝙳𝙾 𝚈𝙾𝚄 𝚆𝙰𝙽𝚃? || I took a nap so I’m late to this I think BUT .. pops. Pops pops pops. What am I supposed to say about what I think about your portrayal? Academy award winning. Show stopping. Hands down one of the best thing I’ve ever seen. We became mutuals through here and killian … ages ago?? It feels like ages (in the good way) and I remember telling a mutual we had in common who is a good friend of mine like “broooo I’m gonna say fuck it and follow this ghost hunters blog because I keep seeing them on your blog and I am blown away” so I did and you followed back ( so happy you didn’t go why the hell is piraticaltwit and their insanely obsessed with Captain Hook self following me) and we got a thing going and it was … amazing. You’re amazing. We both popped off a bit (life,man) and then you resurfaced after I had started hanging out on Lucas for self care time and just IMMEDIATELY we hit it off. The wit of Egon (I need you to know my autocorrect kept saying Aragorn so I almost sent a thing that would have made you sit there like … Lucas do you even know what character I write ??) , your ability to write that dry sarcasm, the instinctive nature by which you execute a blend of show don’t tell with other more direct nuances of writing draws the reader in. I don’t have to wait for you to tell me the Inflection behind Egon’s tone or how he feels in any given moment because the perfectly executed thoughts along with the details of expression, body language, behavior etc say everything that needs to be said. You have this intrinsic understanding of this character and his franchise that I swear is like …. It’s like being a horse person. You’re just born with this love and passion for something that some people might understand … but they’ll never be able to feel it to the capacity that you do. Thank you for giving me this amazing burrito (that’s supposed to be brotp but I’m keeping it. The L and E burrito) that started with a crack thing about Lucas and Egon being judges on the X factor. And now they are … actual’ have these feelings’ bros. I’m such a huge fan of you pops. Literally always will be. Thank you for being on the dash and for bringing Egon to life the way you do. || @spynorth​

Lucas

Lucas my absolute sweetheart

I don’t even know how to respond to this in order to give it the dignity it deserves, but honestly, thank you so much.

I remember looking at your Hook blog and immediately falling in love with it, daring to follow even though I was absolutely sure you wouldn’t follow my abysmal excuse for wiritng and roleplay back, but you did, and I was just ??????OMG????? 

And then the X Factor AU was brought up and I just immediately jumped into that shit because I found the idea of Egon, EGON, being basically the Simo.n Cowel.l of that verse just absolutely hilarious - and we absolutely still need to write it bc I’m living for it - and then after that we got our two boys involved and the brotp that we’ve managed to create, OMG, I adore it. Egon and Lucas are a perfect pair and I cannot wait to see where their bromance goes.

As for your writing, LISTEN, mine is nothing compared to yours. You have this incredible ability to craft the love you have for Lucas into every single word, and it’s so obvious to everyone that reads what you have to say. Art in written form, that’s the best way I can describe it. Absolutely beautiful art, and we’re all here for it - no-matter what the hateful anons may say.

I love you to pieces and always will. Never forget that.

[meganlpie]

Helm's Deep

Based on this request: Lady Meg! 💜💜 may I request an Aragorn x female!Reader platonic fic? I’m trash for drama and action so I was thinking a rescue-ish fic. The reader and Aragorn have known each other for years (since his and her time at Rivendell) and at the battle of Helms Deep he sees her struggling against some Uruk-Hai alongside Haldir (her father figure). Aragorn makes it in time to save her. Then after the battle a bit of fluff/comfort for both of them loosing someone they care about? Thanks, lovely! from my dear Lady Kate @iwillbeinmynest

Here you are!! My apologies for the wait! *I do not own ANY LotR characters. They are the property of Tolkien!*

Warnings: Angst...just angst. With a semi-happy ending?? I hurt myself writing this, okay? Mentions of battle, violence, blood, death.

Pairings: Aragorn x fem!reader (platonic), father figure Haldir

You knew the cries of the Uruk-Hai were a sound you would never forget the rest of your life. They echoed all around you as you fought against the enemy with everything you had. Steel met steel, arrows sunk into flesh, battle cries carried on the air from both sides, wood splintered, and stone crumbled. All these sounds met your ears while you gave it your all protecting the people of Rohan sheltered in Helm's Deep alongside your dearest friend and the elf you'd come to see as your father.

Rain clouded your vision, but you were practiced with your bow and nearly smiled in satisfaction when you heard yet another arrow met its mark. Still, the legion of Uruk-Hai were closer than you wanted. It was time to abandon your bow in favor of your sword. You unsheathed your blade and made your way to where Haldir was fighting.

You fought long and hard, but soon came to understand that you were outnumbered. Retreat was the only way. Unfortunately, you all realized too late and were overcome by the sheer number of Uruk-Hai. Arrows whistled as they flew passed your ears. Every swing of your blade as met with another. Your muscles were sore. Your entire body was beginning to betray you. Haldir saw this and acted.

You felt yourself being pulled up a set of steep, stone steps as more of the enemy's arrows met their targets and more Uruk-Hai infiltrated the stronghold. You had no idea how closely you came to death until you heard the ringing of steel above your head. You glanced up to see Aragorn standing over you, his own blade dripping with rain and blood.

He helped you to your feet only to freeze in place. You opened your mouth to thank him, but noticed his gaze was not on you rather on something behind you. You turned just in time to see Haldir falling to the smooth stone below his feet. A strangled cry escaped your throat as you leapt forward, running your sword through the Uruk-Hai that had dared to take your father away from you.

Aragorn tried to pull you away, but you slipped out of his grasp, collapsing to your knees next to Haldir. He smiled up at you and whispered something in his native tongue before he breathed no more. As tears began forming in your eyes, you softly told him goodbye.

Your grief was short lived for the moment as Aragorn once again pulled you to your feet and began practically dragging you away from Haldir's lifeless form and into the stronghold. Your body moved almost mechanically for the rest of the night and, when the sun rose, there was Gandalf with the Rohirrim at his back. The battle was won that morning and that evening was a celebration, but your heart remained heavy.

At first, you remained by yourself off to the side of the celebrations. Haldir's death weighed on you. If he hadn't been trying to protect you, would he still be alive? Or was his death at the hands of the enemy fated? The questions and guilt bounced around in your head and heart until it was almost too much to bear. You needed to get away from everyone.

You were stopped by Aragorn. His eyes regarded you with concern. You simply shook your head, not wanting to speak. You couldn't. If you did, you knew you'd start crying. There was no time for tears in this war. You knew that. But apparently, Aragorn didn't agree.

He took your arm in his and lead you from the room, stopping to grab two bowls of food along the way. You let him lead you silently until you were once again outside to the ramparts. The horrors of the night before had been completely erased except for the funeral pyres of your loved ones. From where you stood, you could see Haldir's.

"It is alright to grieve," Aragorn told you, "Haldir would expect you to grieve instead of keeping it locked away. Keeping it a distraction." You grew angry for a moment. How dare he tell you what Haldir would expect?! You turned to yell at him, but were met with a soft smile. It was times like this that you remembered how well Aragorn knew you. He had been your friend and confidante for a very long time.

"Let it out, Y/N. Grieve and let Haldir be at rest." At those words, the dam broke and tears fell down your face. Aragorn set the bowls down and opened his arms without another word. In an instant, you hugged him close. You often forgot that you weren't made of stone, but like a brother often would, Aragorn would vex you until your emotions had no choice but to show themselves. That's what was happening now.

You cried until you had no more tears left in you. Aragorn never said a word, but you swore at one point you felt tears in your hair. It dawned on you that he needed this too. Not even the comfort, exactly, but the permission to let go of everything for just a little while.

When you were all cried out, you let go of him. "Will we survive this?" you asked in a soft voice. Aragorn smiled again. "I do not know. But we will not let Haldir's death be in vain. Nor any of the others. We will protect each other and we will fight for the world. And, should we survive, we will be entirely changed." You nodded. "But we will fight?" Aragorn chuckled and agreed. "We will fight," he repeated, picking up and handing you a bowl of stew, "For Haldir." You tapped your bowl against his.

"For Haldir."

(a/n: I hope you like it even though it broke my heart to write it!)

Forever Tags: @fizzyxcustard @brewsthespirit-blog @sirkekselord @aikibriarrose @lady-of-lies @esoltis280 @motleymoose @dark-angel-is-back @stories-by-shanna-p

Tolkien Tags: @jotink78 @thealbersclan @wanderinglittlefangirl @justcallmecinammon @evyiione @legolaslovely

[gossip-girl-of-middleearth]

Imagine helping Legolas deal with a sprained ankle

It was all your fault, so Legolas would say.

“If you hadn’t had been so reckless, I wouldn’t have had to jump down from the boulder to assist you with the orc,” he’d complain regularly, from his position forcibly laying down in his sleeping pack with an elevated foot.

Whenever he’d try to rise again to bicker louder with you, a tending Aragorn would push him down again with a hand to his chest.

It was funny the first few days, you couldn’t lie, but now? Well, now it was just sad.

Legolas prided himself on his athletic ability, that much was obvious to you and the rest of the Fellowship early into your journey.

He’d regularly prance ahead like a young foal, or walk across snow with a smug smirk on his face. He was the strongest member there, and never let anyone forget it. This is also why he took injury the worst out of everyone.

It wasn’t, in all actuality, technically your fault. You needed help with an orc, yes, but Legolas timing his jump wrong and spraining his ankle had nothing to do with you.

Alas, he was gaining cabin fever from his immobilised state, therefore anger was bubbling in his chest—directed at you. You didn’t take it personally, but it was starting to wear down on you.

The walks through the days were slower, as Legolas would limp along with a homemade walking stick, fashioned out of a long branch.

Whenever he’d notice you or someone else looking at him over his shoulder, as he bared his teeth in wincing hurt, he’d quickly glare and push on harder.

You’d softly shake your head, but look away regardless.

It was unnatural to see an elf in such a state, like roses freezing over. Even more so, it was unnatural to see Legolas so grumpy. He was quite light-hearted at the beginning of the journey—you remember making a mental note that he’d probably be one of the best to hang around with due to so.

Alas, his sprained ankle and no doubt self-inflicted embarrassment brought the deeply rooted competitiveness out within him.

You were all sat around a fire tonight (save for Boromir and Gimli, who were off scouting the area), like many other evenings—laughing and pulling rabbit meat off of a skewer.

Legolas was a few yards away, pouting in his sleeping bag. You had brought his food to him a few minutes earlier, but he turned you away and claimed he wasn’t hungry.

“You’ll need sustenance to heal, little elf,” you laughed, trying to humour him.

All you received was a gruff grunt, and, “Don’t tell me how elves heal—I’m quite aware of my own race, thank you very much.”

You heard Pippin hissing through a wince, and bared your own teeth in cringe as you turned on your heel and headed back towards the campfire.

“Pay him no mind,” Aragorn said, leaning across to you. “Elves, especially the Mirkwood strain, are very prideful folk. He’ll come to his senses once his foot heals.”

“I can’t imagine it’ll heal anytime soon if he keeps pushing himself every day like he’s doing,” you pointed out.

Aragorn sighed. “That is entirely Thranduil’s blood coming out in him.”

“Remind me to never step foot in Mirkwood then,” you grinned.

Aragorn gave a toothy smile back, and bonked his skewer with yours in a “cheers to that” motion.

You could feel Legolas’ eyes burning into the back of your head, but paid it no mind. You didn’t dare glance over your shoulder, lest Mordor freeze over.

The rest of the camp continued on in low chatter, that is until Boromir and Gimli came rushing back—completely out of breath.

“What is it?” Aragorn asked right away.

“Orc scouts,” Boromir answered, wiping the sweat from his brow. “Thirty, give or take, approaching from the west.”

The camp looked around at each other quickly in fright, before Aragorn jumped into action. Rising to his feet, he grabbed his sword and dictated everyone else to do the same.

“We’ll meet them half way and use the element of surprise,” he said.

Legolas began rising to his own feet, though, a great deal of strained effort was noticeable on his end.

“I’m coming, I just need to get my bow,” Legolas announced, barely able to move the foot resting on a sleeping pack.

“No, not you, mellon nîn,” said Aragorn, upholding a hand and motioning for Legolas to lay down again. “Please, stay behind. Though your valiance is admirable, you will only get in the way of this fight. Rest, and fight when your ankle heals.”

Legolas’ face contorted in hurt, and you imagined this was the first time the athletic prince had ever been sidelined.

You all stood around in misplaced guilt, fiddling with your swords and avoiding eye contact with Legolas.

Finally, the elf’s jaw set, and he forcibly fell back down into sheets—turning over and pulling the covers up over his shoulder.

“We can’t leave him vulnerable,” Sam pointed out, whispering quietly as to not anger Legolas further. However, you could see his pointed ears twitching back, and knew he heard every gut-punching word.

Aragorn nodded, and turned his eyes to you. The hobbits had to stay under the protection of Aragorn, and leaving Frodo and the Ring out of sight and alone behind in the camp simply wasn’t an option.

Aragorn gestured between you and Legolas discreetly. Understanding his words, you dropped your shoulders and sighed.

“I’ll stay back and tend to the camp,” you announced.

The rest of the Fellowship gave you an apologetic look, before running off into the forest towards the orcs.

You were soon left with the silence of the camp, save for the angered breathing of Legolas and the crackling of the dimming fire.

Stood there unsure of what to do in the awkward space, you continued fiddling with the pommel of your sword, and looked at Legolas.

His back was rising and falling quickly—clearly infuriated with the whole situation. You felt bad for him, you really did, but you were still unsure of how to approach him.

Looking down to the fire again, you saw untouched skewers of meat, and arrived at a resolution.

With the food in hand, you walked over to the prince. He could hear you coming, and with every crunch of your boots on the foliage, his eyes twitched.

Sitting down beside his back, you placed a hand on the broad of his shoulder and shook him gently. “The rabbit smells really good, and has that beautiful, slightly charred smoky taste. Seems a waste to not eat it, no?”

“Not hungry,” Legolas grumbled.

“You need to heal your ankle, Legolas,” you said again, this time sterner. “You need to ea—”

“Not. Hungry.”

Thinning your lips, you shook your head down at Legolas in disappointment. “Legolas, I know you’re upset with me regarding your ankle, but holding a grudge isn’t going to—”

He swiftly turned over in his pack, and stared at the dimming fire.

“We need more firewood,” he said, glaring at the dying flames.

You followed his line of sight, and noticed he was indeed right. However, you recalled the orcs and what Aragorn expected of you.

“We’ll just have to wait for the others. I can’t leave the camp to fetch more, and I definitely can’t leave you vulnerable to—”

“Ugh! I’ll do it myself!” Legolas exclaimed. He rose swiftly and tried limping out into the woods with clenched fists and squared shoulders.

“Legolas!” you called, quickly grabbing your sword and cursing under your breath. “Wait! You shouldn’t be on that ankle!”

But he was already marching on.

Heading a few strides out into the forest, Legolas went farther and farther to find the best firewood. You ran behind him, surprised he could go so far for someone who was injured.

“Wait!” you yelled again, finally jumping out in front of him. “Go back to sleep, Legolas. Now.”

He merely glared at you, and stepped around your form—pushing on.

Groaning in frustration, you turned around and pulled on his shoulder. “I’m serious, Legolas! There are orcs out here at the moment, and I need to stay by the camp!”

“Then you can go back,” Legolas growled, forcibly shoving your hand off of his shoulder. “I don’t need to be babysat by you.”

“No,” you agreed, “but you do need my help with your ankle!”

Grabbing the bottom of his cloak, you started pulling him back towards the camp.

“Let go!” he shouted, digging his one good heel into the ground and pulling his cape back—initiating a tug of war between you both.

“No!” you denied, pulling the cloak again. “You’re coming back with me, and that’s final!”

“NO!” Pull. “I’m helping by getting firewood!”

Yank. “You’re not helping at all! You’re putting me in a tough situation instead!”

“It’s not your problem!” Tug.

“Yes, it is!” you exclaimed, pulling the cloak one more time. “It is my problem, because you’ve become a HUGE problem for the entire Fellowship!”

Upon pulling one last time, Legolas lost his footing and tripped, causing you both to fall down.

You each groaned in pain as your backs were sprawled across the foliage. Legolas was the first to sit up, but immediately yelped in pain as he did so.

He held his ankle tight, and bared his teeth as to stop himself from crying out.

“It’s worse,” he whispered, avoiding your eyes. “My ankle—I think I hurt it more.”

You stared at Legolas in horror, as he clutched said sore ankle. You sat up next to him, and ran a finger along it.

He jolted immediately, and fought back another cry by biting down on his bottom lip.

“Dammit, Legolas…” you cursed, furrowing your brows and shaking your head. “Why couldn’t you have just listened to me? You need to rest.”

Upon glaring up at him, you were taken aback, for there were unshed tears in the elf’s eyes. He was clearly holding himself back from letting them fall, as he sniffled and studied his ankle.

“Legolas?” you called softly, reaching a hand up and gently directing his chin to face you. “What’s going on with you?”

Letting the first tear fall, and swallowing the lump in his throat, Legolas spoke up in a quiet voice—finally unbottling his emotions.

“I’m supposed to be the athlete,” he said, studying your eyes before looking down again. “I was always the best in training. I’ve pushed myself through rain, mud and more, because I’ve always been the best. And now? Now I can’t even fetch firewood for my friends...”

Sympathy overtook your eyes, as you suddenly understood the elf.

“You still are the best here, Legolas,” you promised, trying to catch his eyes as he averted them. “A sprained ankle means nothing in the grand scheme of it. You are, without a doubt, the strongest one of us here. None of us think differently of you simply because you’re hurt.”

“But I feel so useless!” he exclaimed, letting a few more tears fall. “My friends are out there right now pulling their own weight against the orcs, and I’m stuck here crying on the ground because I can’t even walk.”

“But you will walk again,” you assured him, turning his chin once more. “And when that day comes—which isn’t too far off, mind you—those orcs will wish they hadn’t ever left Mordor.”

You laughed brightly for a moment in afterthought, earning a smile from Legolas.

“What?” he asked gently.

“Do you remember how you took that cave troll down in Moria?” you chuckled again, thinking of the memory. “You scaled atop the darn thing and shot two arrows into its brain!”

“Three…” Legolas sheepishly corrected, now grinning in a shy way.

“Three,” you annulled, grinning back up at him. “Trust me, Legolas. Your friends think nothing less of you than pure amazing talent. Don’t let it eat away at you.”

Legolas nodded to himself for a moment, before another sheepish grin formed on his lips. “Speaking of eating…are there any of those rabbit meat skewers still left back at camp?”

You smiled warmly, and helped him up.

He tentatively accepted your aid, and slowly wrapped an arm over your shoulder, as you helped him limp back to camp.

“C’mon, athlete. Let’s get you some food.”

[tyrantisterror]

#i've said before and i'll say it again: one of the great skills stephen king has is establishing his characters before the horror starts#establishes them as well-meaning as losers as goofy as loving#and then when they are threatened by the horror force in a story - when the creeping dread sets in - you get scared because you're#scared FOR THEM#because you care#a lot of concepts in stephen king novels would be ridiculous in a different context - or with a different writer#a lot of things in IT are objectively stupid and not scary#and yet i ended that book scared of manholes and orange pompoms#because i cared#he established the warmth of the characters and the characters as vulnerable people you want to root for - and not just#because they're kids#there were plenty of unsympathetic kids in that book#and then the horror was more horrifying because it threatened something you cared about#he established the warmth and it made the cold of the horror more horrifying in contrast#it reminds me of that post that goes around sometimes about how people copying tolkien often end up with stories that don't work as#well because they try to make aragorn the hero rather than the hobbits#and try to make it a power fantasy rather than a struggle#vulnerability - well-written - hits harder than power#you need a balance - but if you forget the vulnerability you're probably not going to have the impact you want#or much impact at all

@purplehairsecretlair thank you for letting me do the "how dare you leave that good analysis in the tags!" thing!

I feel like Godzilla Minus One is the clearest example I can give that any monster, no matter how well-known and "unthreatening" they've become in pop culture, can be an effective source of horror if you make them menace characters we actually give a shit about. Like, for all the directors and writers who want to blame well known monsters for no longer having the element of surprise and thus no longer being scary - "Oh, the xenomorph is the problem, people know it too well to be scared" "Oh, vampires can't be scary anymore, they're too corny, too overexposed" et cetera - it's pretty clear that the real problem is that they didn't want to put in the work to make us care about the characters the monster is menacing. It's a skill issue, honestly.

[faerune]

16 for ceridwen & legolas 👀👀

— a kiss on the back of the neck

The moment before she let loose her bowstring, that was the feeling she was seeking.

The tight anticipation, the silence. The world narrowing down to the steady inhale, exhale of her breath. She could feel the wind at her back, the brush of a stray hair at her cheek. The knuckle of her forefinger resting as a firm anchor just below her cheekbone.

"You're restless, órenya."

Ceridwen's finger slipped from her bow string and the arrow shot like a bird from brush, across the courtyard till it stuck solidly in the larger outskirts of her target.

Her body unfurled, her held breath leaving her in a soft curse.

She turned to find Legolas, leaning and languid against one of the courtyard's pillars, watching her.

"Perhaps because of the princeling lurking after me," Ceridwen answered dryly with a little crook of her lips. Legolas returned a smirk and wandered over, turning her to her side again before placing himself behind her.

He steadied his hands on her hips after tapping her shoulder, signaling her to string her bow again. 

"I do not lurk," he bemused, warm breath at her ear.

Ceridwen pleaded for her heart to stop its rapid fluttering as she strung another arrow. 

"What would you call it, then?" she asked.

"Pine. Lovingly gaze," he replied, peeking his face over her shoulder so she could properly see his lighthearted, cocksure smile.

Ceridwen smiled and fondly rolled her eyes, forgetting her stance for a moment to tap her elbow back against his chest.

“Go on then. We can not have you lose your skill.”

“That would delight you.”

His mouth was back at her ear again, raising goosepimples on her arms. 

“I have grown fond of how you look flushed with victory.”

Ceridwen opened her mouth in retort but he tapped her gently on the hip, “Focus.”

She let out a huff and nocked her arrow in a clean, practiced motion. 

Legolas' hand placed flat across her stomach, his other still at her hip, and for a moment, they breathed together all playful bicker lost between them. In, out. 

It came again. That cool, easy calm. 

In. Legolas' hand pressed into her lower belly to ground her. 

Out. His chest solid behind her, a frame for her own body. 

He did not help her or readjust her. Despite his prodding, Legolas respected her skill. Ceridwen did not mind the excuse to be close either.

Ceridwen loosed on an exhale, the arrow soaring to find its mark at the very center of the straw target this time. 

She grinned and straightened, resting the bottom of her bow on the ground to give her hands a rest, cradling the top between her palms. 

Ceridwen felt Legolas push her heavy braid over her shoulder and his rose-soft lips brush against the back of her neck.

“Good. Feel better?”

Ceridwen turned in his grasp, staring up at him an uncharacteristically soft and grateful look upon her.

“I fear I am the only one unhappy even when this war is finally done,” she confessed.

Legolas clicked his tongue against his teeth.

“War is not so easily forgotten,” he told her evenly, brushing a stray hair from her face, letting his knuckle drag against her cheekbone. Ceridwen’s eyes fluttered shut at the touch and she dared to lean into his hand that unfolded to cradle her cheek.

“And you have been at war longer than most.”

Ceridwen’s eyes fluttered open to gaze up at him, laid bare by his words. 

Suddenly, Legolas quickly stepped back from her, folding his hands behind his back. He stood straighter, as he had been bowing over Ceridwen like a flower to the sun.

Before Ceridwen could catch her breath, her look in askance to him only answered by a small apologetic smile, the doors opened.

“My lady, King Elessar wishes to speak with you in the main hall,” bowed a breathless servant quickly. No doubt the poor girl had been looking all over the keep for Ceridwen.

“Of course,” she nodded, racking her bow and pulling off her leather gloves. No doubt Aragorn wanted to speak about the trip to Endoras to escort King Théoden to his final resting place.

As Ceridwen passed Legolas, she asked as soft as can be, “Tonight?”

“Tonight,” he smiled softly with a nod though the reluctance to her departing was clear in his eyes, bowing to her exit. 

It left her with a small, unshakeable smile that carried through the rest of her day.

[theladyofmanyfandomsfanfiction]

Evil Does Not Sleep

Pairing: Leoglas x Reader Ft. (platonic) Aragorn & Gimli

Warnings: Mentions of blood, mentions of torture.

Summary: The Fellowship was broken. You were stolen amidst a battle and held captive by Saruman within the walls of the Second Tower of Isengard. Now, that you’ve escaped, you finally make it to Helms Deep.

Blood trailed your footsteps onto the grey stone as you walked deeper into the realm of men. You didn’t know them. All you wanted was to find someone you trusted, someone who cared. 

Your ragged and ghostly state drew the attention of many and soon, the whispers grew. You didn’t know what you would find at Helms Deep. You heard Saruman speak of destroying it and that Aragorn was present which quickly became the hope that you clung on to. 

You didn’t realise that your thoughts had brought your legs to the Keep of the mountain fort. You half-expected the doors to fly open, but you did not look like yourself and were questioned by the guards. 

“What business do you have with the King?” 

Looking at the men, you stared at the one who spoke, almost forgetting that you had a voice. 

“(Y/n).” You whispered, feeling the painful scratch from your dried-up throat. “Gandalf’s apprentice.” 

The men’s eyes widened and they clamoured over one another, rushing to open the door and let you pass.

Warmth from the room hit your exposed skin like a furnace, the step onto the smooth ground pricked your bare and sensitive feet. You felt more pain in your body in the King’s hold than you did running through the forest. 

You saw King Theoden at the very centre of the room, drawing close with each breath. Then you started to notice more familiar figures to his side. A stout red-bearded dwarf and a man with a firm and regal posture. The dwarf was the first to notice the additional person and you saw the colour drain from his face. 

“Bless my beard.” He exclaimed, prompting the man to his side to turn. Aragorn felt his blood run cold at the sight too. He knew of the evil of Saruman but never had he thought to see it being inflicted on someone he regarded like family. 

Taking a step forward, Aragorn whispered your name but his voice was quickly drowned by a third voice - a much louder one. 

“(Y/n).” The sound of swords clattering to the ground filled the air from behind the King. 

Your attention was pulled to Legolas Greenleaf and you froze entirely. He abandoned the weapons at his feet and ran over as fast as his feet could take him. He dared not wait to place a hand over your cheek and one over your waist gently. His eyes filled with love and fear and anger. 

“What have they done to you?” He asked. You wanted to speak - to explain - but seeing three people that you cared for proved to be too much. Emotional and physical pain overwhelmed your senses and you fell forward, clutching onto the elf as a quiet sob escaped your lips.

All you wanted was to close your eyes and rest in his arms, safe and away from the war. Legolas was the same. He had been parted from you for too long. He wanted to take you away from the impending battle on Men. In his thoughts, he had not realised that Eowyn had been called upon to take you to be cleaned up. 

“My Lord?” She requested. Legolas squeezed gently around your shoulders before relinquishing his hold. As reluctant as he was, he knew that you needed to heel before the darkness approached their doorstep. Very carefully, he helped Eowyn take hold of the wizards apprentice and as just like that, you were taken from him again. 

Eowyn helped you bathe and dress, growing worrisome when she saw the scars on your body. Bruises littered your skin while stab wounds were held together with thick staples. Eowyn did not speak of it, instead she led you to an empty room and let you sleep for an hour. 

You woke with a startle.

You didn’t remember when you had been placed in a bed, nor did you remember how long you had been asleep. Slowly, you sat up and pulled the covers off. Looking around, you found some clothes laying in wait for you. Carefully, you dressed yourself and walked over to the door, pushing it open.

The sound of metal filled your nose and goosebumps trailed up your skin. You recognised the uneasy feeling - war. Helms Deep was on the brink of a battle. 

Turning a corner, you walked past several soldiers who rushed by with swords, shields and spears. Fear started to creep into your muscles at the thought of another battle - you barely survived your last one. 

Slam! A body smacked straight into yours as you rounded a second corner. 

Stepping back, you shook your head and blinked the stars away when the other person placed their hands on your shoulders. 

“You’re awake.” They said. Looking up, you found yourself staring at Aragorn. He looked exhausted and battle worn. “How are you?” He asked. 

You glanced around the corridor and at the mess that had become of the Men. 

“I don’t know... what’s going on?” 

Aragorn took in a deep breath and seemed conflicted on whether to tell you the truth. Placing a hand over your back, he guided you outside onto the fort. The rabble outside was far worse than what you saw within the Keep walls. Old men and young boys were being shown their defence positions by soldiers, catapults were being pushed into place, women and children were being ushered off the lower levels. They were preparing for a siege.

Aragorn led you to the top of the wall where you could see beyond the stone. 

“Saruman plans to attack.” He explained. “We are preparing a defence to hold them back but they will be upon us by nightfall.” 

You placed your hands on the cold, rough stone and closed your eyes. 

“Where do I stand?” You asked. A second pair of footsteps joined them and you felt his Elven aura radiate. 

“You need to join the women and children in the mines.” Legolas said, his voice quiet and serious. 

You opened your eyes and turned to the Woodland Prince and Aragorn - if they thought that you would sit on the sidelines, they were mistaken.

“I won’t.” you defied. “You need me out here while help is in short supply.” 

“(Y/n), you’ve barely rested upon your return. Your wounds have not healed.” Legolas had strong arguments - valid points too - but you could not stand by idly while Saruman destroyed lives again. 

“I have been at the mercy of evil for too long. Let me turn the tables. I have strength enough for this.”

Legolas frowned and looked to Aragorn for some back up but the rightful king of Gondor bowed his head in respect. 

“You are the maker of your own decisions. I trust that you understand the toll this will take on you.” 

“I understand. Trust me, the Uruk-hai from Isengard will not see tomorrow’s sunrise.” 

Aragorn could say no more on your choice and patted your arm gently before taking his leave. You turned to the Woodland prince and saw that he had not taken his gaze away from you. “Legolas, I’m fine.”

“I heard Lady Eowyn describe your wounds to the court. (Y/n), you were barely held alive with those Orc staples.”

“I did what I had to then and I shall do so again now.” You replied, looking out at the soon-to-be battleground.

“But-”

“Evil does not sleep and nor will I.”

Masterlist here

[rosemary-morgan]

Boromir X F.Reader - Crying heart

(Pictures found on Pinterest - Collage made by myself)

Many thanks to @fangirl-ramblings 🖤 she has been beta reading for me 🌹

Summary: After you almost lose Boromir, you avoid him so as not to experience the same pain again. The thought of seeing Boromir die in your arms again scares you incredibly. But Boromir doesn't want to give up on you so quickly ...

Warning: Angst, mention of death (I guess), but also some fluff ♥

Crying heart

"Boromir... Boromir?"

She was in complete shock as Boromir lay bleeding in her arms. The man she had learned to love. Now he was to pass away from her already? Bitter tears ran down Y/N's cheeks as she stuttered and tried to formulate a half-understandable sentence. She wanted to tell Boromir that everything would be fine and that everyone would take care of him. He would just have to endure, to wait out the pain a little longer, and yet the young woman knew that Boromir had forfeited his life. Three arrows were stuck in his chest. Three arrows that those damned Uruk-hai had fired. Y/N didn't want to believe it was over. She couldn't believe that Boromir was dying. Y/N didn't leave his side, stroking through his dirty blond hair, which was stained with mud and blood.

"You are not going to die now. Do you hear me? Don't you dare!"

Boromir smiled up at her, he seemed so peaceful despite the pain and that was only because he saw the young woman's face. He saw her tears, he saw her pain.

"Y/N... I..."

Talking was hard for him. Very hard. The only thing he could do now was to enjoy the last moments with her. There was something comforting about dying in her lap. He was not alone. Y/N was with him, Aragorn was with him. He was not alone and he would not end up like a lonely dog.

"I love you..."

It was three little words that caused an incredible feeling in Y/N. Happiness, but also sadness and unbelievable anger that life had decided to take Boromir away from her. Eventually, the young woman burst into tears and sobbed in reply, that she loved him too. She had wanted to tell him so many times how much she loved him, but had never found the right moment. And now? Now she would have nothing more of Boromir. Their story together ended before it had begun. That Y/N returned his love meant everything to Boromir and he smiled as he closed his eyes and breathed in her scent once more, feeling the warmth of her body. There was nowhere he would rather be than with her. The battle against the Uruk-hai had been turbulent, wild and risky, but now it no longer mattered.

Aragorn remained somewhat in the background, out of respect for their togetherness. But the words of Boromir had not escaped the ranger, and it pained him to see that the love of these two people would be destroyed. Aragorn thought of Arwen, thought of how terrible it would be to lose her. And that is exactly what happened between Y/N and Boromir. He lay dying in her arms and her pain had to be unimaginable.

"I love you, Boromir!"

Sobbing and full of despair, she hugged Boromir to her as she rocked him back and forth. He couldn't be dead, he wasn't allowed to be! Bitter tears ran down her face, mingling with her own blood and dirt.

Y/N felt Aragorn's warm hand on her shoulder, felt him squeeze her and express his sympathy without words. However, Aragorn knew it was time to say goodbye to Boromir, even if it was hard for him too.

"Y/N... I am so sorry..."

"He can't be dead... Oh, God... No, no!"

Her pain was clearly audible and it literally froze the blood in Aragorn's veins. Aragorn knelt down to Y/N, caringly stroked her head, and looked to his friend Boromir, whom Y/N was carefully laying in the dry leaves. Her face showed her pain, and her tears had left definite marks on her cheeks. She would never forget him. She would never forget her first love and in all probabilities, she would not get over this enormous loss. Y/N was convinced of that. A soft sigh escaped Aragorn when he saw the expression on her face. The strider wished there was something he could do, and yet Aragorn knew that no words could have comforted her at the moment. Just then, Aragorn sadly turned his eyes away from Y/N and caught a glance of Boromir. Instantly, Aragon's sad expression slipped away and his eyes grew wide.

"He lives," he whispered, almost shocked. "He is alive!"

When Y/N heard that, she couldn't believe it at first, but now hope burned within her. She watched as Aragorn took Boromir in his arms and looked for any sign of life. So Aragorn brought his face closer to Boromir's and he heard the breathing of the supposedly dead man.

"He lives, Y/N!"

Relief was evident in the strider, however, Boromir was badly injured, so they had to take good care of him and not expose him to unnecessary danger. However, they all had to keep in mind that the little hobbits were in the hands of the Uruk-Hai...

Two days had passed. Boromir was still not conscious, fever plagued the man. Y/N never left his side, taking care of Boromir and forgetting to sleep or even to eat. Aragorn sat together with Legolas and Gimli at the warm campfire, which they had lit for the protection of the night. The Ranger watched Y/N, worried about the young woman since she was by Boromir's side all the time. Aragorn and the others had offered to take care of Boromir, but she had refused, assuring them that they need not worry about her. However, you could tell the young woman was very tired and in urgent need of sleep.

"We can't risk putting Boromir in danger."

"So, what do you suggest, Aragorn?" the blond Elf asked, glancing at Boromir before turning back to the Ranger.

"With each passing minute, Pippin and Merry are in the greatest danger. However, one of us should stay with Boromir and Y/N," Aragorn replied, gazing thoughtfully into the blazing flames.

"I will stay with them!"

"No, Legolas. I need you to go in search of the two Hobbits. Neither Gimli nor I, have eyes as sharp as yours. I will stay."

"What?!"

Gimli grumbled lowly as he looked up at the blond elf. However, the dwarf understood Aragorn's decision and also that Y/N could not be left alone. While she was good with weapons, she still had a sick Boromir at her side to protect. It was a difficult situation, but Merry and Pippin could not be left to their fate. The group had to split up.

"Ngh... All right! Me and the young elf will go find the two boys."

Aragorn was pleased with the decision and gave Gimli a gentle smile. But now the ranger had another matter to attend to. Calm and understanding as he always was, he went to Y/N to speak with her.

"You should rest. You don't have to carry this burden alone, Y/N."

"It is not a burden for me, Aragorn. I just want him to get better."

"We all want that. But you have to understand that we can't afford another patient."

He meant her, and Y/N knew it. In the end, she understood and she also thought of Merry and Pippin. Worrying about Boromir was stressful enough, but the fact that they hadn't found the two Hobbits yet was also scary. All of them were aware that they would put Boromir in a dangerous position as soon as they would find the Uruk-Hais. But what could they do? Boromir, the little Hobbits, all of them were dear to them and they didn't want to leave any behind. The only option was to split up among themselves.

"I know" she whispered weakly, and now she too felt how tired and exhausted she actually was.

"Boromir will be fine. Three arrows have not been able to stop him. He won't give up now, Y/N. Now that he knows someone special is waiting for him."

Aragorn always had the right words and for the young woman, they were a great comfort. Still, the events of the last days and weeks had shown that anyone could die at a moment's notice. They had seen it with Gandalf and that was painful enough. Boromir had survived, but the horror that he could have been dead had shaken Y/N to the core. She had fallen in love with Boromir, had often imagined what it would be like to lie in his arms at night, to exchange caresses with him. She had imagined all this and the feeling of being in love had made her more than happy. But Y/N had realized how painful love could be. With how much fear and grief that was connected to it. Could she once again bear to see Boromir die before her eyes? In her arms? No, no human could bear that one more time. Maybe it would be better to just let go. But even that would be difficult for Y/N, because feelings could not simply be turned off. She loved Boromir, but she knew that if Boromir really left this world, she would die inside.

"He was in my arms, Aragorn. I never want anything like this to happen again... To any of you," she whispered as she wiped a damp cloth over Bormoir's heated skin. Gently, she let it slide over his forehead as she looked at him.

"That he's alive is a miracle. I don't want to see him die again."

Aragorn understood her fear, also thought he knew what the young woman was getting at. It was the same for him with Arwen. His thoughts were constantly with the beautiful elven woman.

"Aragorn, I can't..." Y/N sobbed softly as tears slid down her cheeks. "It hurts so terribly to see him lying here."

"Y/N. You're tired and you really should go to sleep. It's been a rough day. You need to rest."

But sleep would not change her mind. She would distance herself from Boromir. But this decision was not Y/N's alone, but Boromir's as well. For Boromir had heard her confession of love quite carefully before he lost consciousness. And he should be damned to let his happiness slip away.

So it happened; after two more days the son of Denethor woke up and his first thought was about Y/N. And the first thing he did when he opened his eyes was to look out for the beautiful woman. It hadn't escaped his notice that she had taken care of him. Every now and then he had awakened from his deep sleep, had seen her face again and again. Perhaps he had only dreamed of it, yes, but much more Boromir hoped that he had not only dreamed of her.

"You were unconscious for a long time. How do you feel, my friend?"

Aragorn's calm and pleasant voice drew Boromir's attention.

"Aragorn..." Somewhat confused, Boromir stroked his dirty blond hair, sighing softly. How did he feel? Well, he was in pain, barely able to move in his condition. Still, he sat up, wrapping an arm around his stomach as he hissed softly.

"Careful, Boromir. Your wounds have not healed yet. We have done our best, yet scars will remain."

"I'm lucky to be alive at all!"

And Boromir was glad about that. But all at once, he remembered Pippin and Merry. Startled, he looked around for the two Hobbits, but he couldn't spot them anywhere.

"Where are the little ones?!"

For a short moment, Aragorn turned his face away from Boromir, before looking at him again.

"We have not found them yet. Legolas and Gimli are searching for them."

"And you are here? Where is Y/N?"

Aragorn smirked a bit as his friend asked about the young woman. Yes, he could well understand that Boromir longed to be near Y/N.

"She is preparing dinner." With a slight movement of his head, Aragorn indicated the young woman's location. She was not far away, and Boromir now saw her as well. Instantly a smile crept onto the warrior's face. He looked at her for a moment, watching her prepare the food in the pan, lost in thought. He wondered if this was a good idea. Boromir was looking forward to a good piece of meat and it would be a shame if it burned, because of her distraction. He wondered what she was thinking about?

"Y/N? Boromir finally woke up!"

When Y/N heard this, she instantly looked in the direction of the two men and her eyes grew wide. For days, the young woman had been waiting for her Boromir to finally wake up, and when the time finally came, she dropped everything. She rushed to the warrior, but at the same time, she reminded herself not to get too excited.

"Y/N!"

It was obvious that Boromir was more than delighted to see her. He smiled joyfully at her, but Y/N only gave a saddened smile, which Boromir noticed immediately. Somewhat disappointed, he frowned, yet he said nothing.

"I'm so glad you're finally awake. How are you feeling?"

"I'm okay, Y/N."

Aragorn cleared his throat as he excused himself and let the two of them have their privacy. After Aragorn made his way to the fire, Y/N looked shyly at the young Boromir as she knelt down to him. Carefully, he reached out and touched her cheek and Y/N felt how hot she suddenly became. Her heart pounded madly against her chest as she closed her eyes, while she enjoyed his touch.

"You gave us all a big scare, Boromir," Y/N said softly and she couldn't stop tears from running down her cheeks. It touched him deeply that the young woman was shedding tears because of him, but he liked her better when she smiled. Silently, Y/N nuzzled her face against his hand. It felt so good to be touched by him, it just felt right and yet Y/N didn't want to let her romantic feelings guide her. But when she opened her eyes again and looked into his, she felt weak again. She didn't want to escape Boromir, she wanted to finally be able to call him hers. It wasn't an easy decision and Y/N was almost on the verge of despair.

"It's good to see such a beautiful face. Such a friendly face."

Y/N knew Boromir's words were meant for her and she blushed immediately, even making her smile.

"Boromir..."

With his thumb, Boromir gently caressed her cheek before pulling his hand back and sighing softly. For a while, they just sat together, silent, and again and again, Boromir touched the young woman. Tenderly and almost carefully, but Boromir could be sure that Y/N enjoyed it very much.

"You should rest some more, Boromir. Your body needs a lot of recovery," Y/N said softly as she gently stroked through his strands of hair. Just as she turned away from him to leave, he grabbed her wrist and begged her not to leave his side.

"Please. Stay with me a little longer, darling."

Actually, she shouldn't. But, she couldn't bring herself to do it. Instead, she even lay down next to Boromir, her body lightly snuggled against his, while she closed her eyes and listened to his steady breaths. Without another word, Boromir wrapped his arm around her body and even pressed her a little closer to him, causing tears to run down the young woman's cheeks. God, how much she loved this man and how happy she was that he was still alive.

Days passed, Boromir was getting better and better, so they were all able to continue their journey. The fact that Boromir constantly sought Y/N's closeness had of course not escaped Aragorn's notice and he was happy for them, but he also saw that the young woman avoided Boromir's closeness and Boromir had also noticed that. He didn't want to force himself on her, respected her when she asked him to be alone. However, the frustration was clearly visible in his face. As it was at this moment. While he was sharpening his sword, his eyes kept falling to Y/N. She looked very thoughtful and also very unhappy. Boromir wondered why. Had he said something wrong? Did he do something to upset her? He was so sure that she returned his feelings. Had she not testified with her own words that she loved him? Sighing heavily, Boromir stowed his sword back in its scabbard before putting it aside. It could not go on like this. She was always running away from him, even if he only wanted to exchange a few words with her. This time, however, he would not let the young woman slip away so quickly. He would not give up until she had answered his questions. So the warrior rose from his place and approached Y/N, who was sitting on a small rock with her back turned to him, gazing into the distance.

"Y/N?"

The young woman looked up at Boromir, her heart beating fast as she did so. He seemed different than usual. He made a very serious impression and Y/N immediately understood why Boromir was with her. He hadn't missed her behavior and Y/N knew that she couldn't always run away from him.

"Can we talk?"

Y/N was silent for a moment before she nodded and rose from her seat. She turned to him, looking up at him, and Boromir's gaze immediately softened as he looked into her face. Her eyes had such a sad expression that he almost forgot what he had actually wanted to confront her with.

"You are avoiding me. Why?"

"..."

No answer. Y/N gave him no answer and Boromir slowly lost patience. He sighed softly, looking up at the sky for a moment as he reminded himself to stay calm. Y/N, on the other hand, noticed quite clearly that he was tense and she knew it was her fault. She was sorry, but she tried her best to banish Boromir from her mind. But most of all, out of her heart.

"And now you won't even talk to me?"

His voice was calm, but you could tell the man was hurt by her behavior.

"Then... Didn't my words mean anything to you, Y/N?"

Oh, they meant the world to her. They meant so much to her and now that Boromir confronted her, she couldn't bear to be around him any longer. She took flight from him again, but this time the young warrior would not let her get away.

"No!"

He quickly caught up with her, grabbed her arm and brought her to a stop.

"I want a clear answer, Y/N!" he said angrily as he spun her around to face him and she looked at him, startled.

"You treat me like I'm not even present! Turning your back on me! And I want to know what I did to deserve your hatred!"

She didn't hate him after all! No, no, no! But that's exactly what Boromir was thinking, and could she blame him? Y/N didn't try to run away from him this time, but looked up at him. Visibly startled by his words, she wanted to say something in her defense, but the words stuck in her throat. However, her tears told him that something was very wrong with the young woman. Instantly his gaze softened, no longer looking so angry.

"If I did anything wrong, I'm sorry, Y/N. I'm really sorry..."

"No. No, Boromir. You have done nothing wrong."

Boromir frowned, clearly confused by her words. Now he didn't understand anything. How was he supposed to understand? There had to be a reason for her to reject him!

"You almost died in my arms, Boromir," she whispered, and still she could feel the fear and desperation she had felt the day she thought Boromir had died.

"Believe me Boromir, your words mean the world to me. That you love me makes me so happy, but..."

Then she placed her hand to his cheeks, stroking them gently, and Boromir looked at her hopefully.

"I can't bear the thought of really losing you next time. Do you understand? I never want to have to feel such fear, such pain, ever again!"

Boromir understood, yet he found it was nonsense to hide his own feelings because of the fear of losing someone he loves. He, a proud warrior of Gondor, should be damned, If he would just let Y/N go. Without a word, Boromir leaned out to her and kissed her, gently cupping her cheeks.

"Boromir..."

She pulled away from his kiss, however her fingers dug tightly into the fabric of his dark cotton shirt. Boromir searched the look in her eyes as his breath brushed her lips and his thumb caressed her soft skin.

"You mean everything to me, Y/N. And I know you feel the same."

Her soft lips brushed his and she longed so much to just give in to her urge, to all her feelings. In the end, it was stronger than her and this time it was her who kissed him. Passionately and almost desperately. Boromir didn't waste a moment, wrapping his arms around her feminine body and pressing her against him. Her fingers clawed at the dirty blonde hair as his tongue slid over her lips, taking her in completely. Gasping, she gave him what he asked for and by God, she couldn't get enough of his kiss. They both seemed to have forgotten that Aragorn was near them. He just grinned contentedly and finally turned away to give them their privacy.

Y/N clearly heard the low growl coming from Boromir, whereupon she gasped arousedly and released the kiss. Her eyes gleamed as she looked at him. Her face was delicately flushed and a smile slipped onto her lips as the back of his hand caressing her cheek.

"I'm sorry, Boromir."

But Boromir only shook his head, for there was nothing to forgive. Her motives he had understood and could understand, yet he did not want to have to give up on Y/N. He loved her too much for that.

"No, my heart. Nothing to be sorry for."

Overjoyed, she wrapped her arms around his neck and laughed happily as she hugged him. This moment belonged to them alone and she would enjoy every moment she was allowed to spend at Boromir's side.

[sonxofxgondor]

Hand to the shoulder, linen shirt covered in the color of rain clouds, the touch from Frodo was a welcomed one. Comfort for the pain that darkened Boromir and his heart, peace that was offered in both the physical and word alike. Tribulations of the past were to remain as so. Cast into the shadows which had reclaimed the Dark Lord - blackened blood that painted the lands - from where hope would be reborn. From the soil that had once been dry but was no longer; unfolded from the ashes, Elanor bloomed from a single seed. A movement from one point of life onto the next, just the spark that was needed for change. Evil come to an end, Frodo had been that very seed that blossomed. Developed, made stronger by the trials and hurdles that dared to block his path, had lost just as much as he had gained. Frodo was not the same Hobbit that he had been. Older - the lines under his eyes had become quite pronounced - doleful. Boromir was not blind.

Wished for nothing more than to take away the pains of his friend, Boromir did what he could until. Dried his face of tears, brushed them away with the back of his hand, smiled to Frodo. Stood upon his feet, a proud soldier once more, embraced in the night as a Man revived. Life was good.

Boromir hailed, "you Hobbits never fail to impress me. Especially you, Frodo. Your kindness and friendship are precious to me. I will never forget that nor you for as long as I live."

Head cocked to the side in study, a tilt to the left direction, eyes roamed across Frodo with the interest of a concerned companion, green fields dimmed by storm.

"Forgive me, I have not asked how you have been." Boromir apologized. "How are you, Frodo? Your hand, it doesn't bother you now, does it? I am not Aragorn, my knowledge of healing does not go beyond the basics, but I would be more than happy to do what I can to ease you of your hurts. I could call the healer back, too, if you would like. What the creature did to you... Gollum... I am sorry. I cannot begin to think what you must be going through. Would you care for some tea or water? Maybe a little ale? I've found, from my experience, that nothing heals hurts faster than a fresh mug of good ale. May I get a small pint for you, my friend?"

        The intensity of Boromir's grief at his actions caught the Hobbit entirely off-guard. Frodo winced slightly, though did not recoil from the Man now on his knees before him. He simply stared, a concerned furrow forming in his brow, as Boromir professed his guilt and even begged forgiveness. All this, Frodo could hardly bear, but it seemed to him that Boromir felt a need to say it, and so he bore it anyway.

        "My friend..." Frodo began, and he lay a gentle hand on Boromir's shoulder. Not the one bandaged and held close to his chest, finger missing, but the one that remained whole. "None could understand the power of the Ring as I do now. I know its effects, and how its presence harmed you. It is why I chose to leave when I did. I couldn't bear to watch the Ring destroy each of you in turn."

        Frodo took a slow breath, and there was a certain haunted look about him. The journey had changed him, irrevocably, but perhaps there was still hope for those who had not carried this burden so directly. "You told me once, I must not carry the weight of the dead. Now I say to you, Boromir of Gondor: You must not carry the weight of your mistakes while under the influence of the One Ring."

        It is what Frodo wished he could do for himself: Forget his final failure at the end of his quest and remember how many hard steps it took to even make it that far. It would be the only way to find peace, if there was any peace left for him in this world. But hope wore thin.

        "Please, believe me when I say: There is nothing to forgive." The Hobbit offered Boromir a small, if melancholy smile. "From what I've heard, you did right by my kin, and nearly lost your life defending them. Whatever dignity you might have lost in accosting me, I think you more than proved your true honor, in the end."

[weariedwightarchive]

@nightacquainted - continued from here

A burning bitterness flickered like flames in Faegalad’s throat - her eyes narrowing in disdain at the mention of fiction. It was not at the stranger she was upset with. No, it was out of his control what the race of Men decided to remember by as fiction, but the very idea was insulting. And... unsettling. How willing had they been to forget the reality of Sauron? Of how their very future had balanced upon the edge of a sword? How the Dominion of Men almost never came to be? It had to be long after Aragorn’s rule, but... just how long? Her race, she knew, had been destined to leave Arda, but... had the Hobbits gone as well? The Dwarves, even? The thought alone made her mournful, and she did best not to dwell on it.

There were too many questions, and she had a feeling answers would not be readily available from the stranger before her, despite how different he was. Although his features remained hidden in the shadow of his cloak, she could still make out his appearance was that of no Man, but... certainly of no race she knew of. Had another race came to Arda upon the leaving of the Elves? It was possible, but she dare not ask, either, until she could better judge who he was. Besides, she wished not to offend him, not when he was the first soul willing to speak to her, and not simply stare or walk away. The world was strange, and not just in architecture and culture.

The magic she had once felt no longer felt... there. And that... scared her.

But, Faegalad did well to hide it. Did well to keep her composure, despite the threat of the unknown looming down on her - threatening to suffocate her. She was the stranger, was she not? Not the man before her. And as much as everything around her encouraged her to disappear as swiftly as she could, she stood her ground, and gave a slight dip of her head to break her stare on him, and to show she was not upset with him. “That, I’m afraid, I am uncertain of,” she said at last, though her soft voice was taut with stress. “I have a faint recollection of how I ended up here, but... why I am unclear of. You are the first willing to speak to me with some respect, and take me seriously. But... if what you say is true of my kind being seen as myth, then I suppose I should not be surprised. So, if I may, where is here? Not even Minas Tirith could rival this city. Though...”

Something in her expression shifted. Her gaze dulling - a heavy grief weighing heavy on her heart. “This is not Arda.” It was a statement, not a question, but even still, a quiet plea that she was wrong. That it was Arda, just... a different part of it. An unexplored corner of the world she had not seen before.

Because the very idea that she was no longer in Middle-earth was too much to bear.

[spideyanakin]

everything i wanted (l.g)

summary - Legolas had seem to forget you after the ring was destroyed.

back to main masterlist

legolas masterlist

Everything felt weird after Frodo had destroyed the one ring. Aragorn was crowned king and the elves were bound to leave. But a certain elven prince who you had danced around your feelings with made your heart ache a little more. He was going to stay until Aragorn passed away, and you had no reason to stay. Your family was leaving, and every elf you knew apart from Legolas and Arwen were too.

You sighed as you fixed your dress, watching as Aragorn was getting crowned king.

He slowly walked towards you, shaking hands with Legolas first and nodding his way towards the small line of elves separating the two of you. Once he got to you and your saddened face his face softened and he took you into a hug.

“You want me to talk to him?” He asked his voice sending a strike of fear through your stomach.

“Don’t worry... It will be alright.” You whispered only audible for the two of you. You tried to push the tears away as you made once again eye contact with the new king. “Long live the king.” You smiled as you held his arm and gave it a small squeeze as a congratulation, nodding for him to move on to the Hobbits.

“I know you Y/n. And I know when things aren’t right” That’s all he said as he walked towards the four little Hobbits, most of them with bright smiles dancing across their faces.

~

The next day you stood behind Arwen, Legolas on the other side of the altar behind Aragorn.

He still hadn’t said a word to you since you had won the war, and seeing your two friends this happy made you even more in pain.

During those three treacherous years, you had fallen for Legolas, and it would have been a lie to say you didn’t want to stand there with him one day. But his ignorance towards you and your feelings was hard to take in, and it slowly brought you back from your daydreaming, harsh reality hitting you.

You eyed Legolas who was staring at Aragorn with a large smile on his face. His bright smile hit you as if you had been hit by a Mumakil, making you question the three years you had spent fighting alongside each other and if all those things you had shared with him along the way had always been one-sided.

“So you’re telling me that Thranduil stayed with a dead rat in his hair for 10 years and didn’t notice.” You chuckled as the elvish words spilled out of your mouth sticking like glitter to the Hobbits ears who couldn’t understand you.

“Yes!” Legolas chuckled in response, making the Hobbits wonder what was so funny.

“You’ve got to be kidding me!?” You couldn’t stop the laughter from coming up making you clutch your stomach as you tried walking in a straight line.

“The whole of Mirkwood ended up knowing, and no one dared to tell him.” He continued as Gandalf and Aragorn let out soft chuckles from the top of the group, leaving everyone who didn’t speak your language confused.

“So how did you managed to put it there?” You wondered.

“Well... I wanted to prank him, and I didn’t know how. So I was thinking of something that could last a while until he finally noticed one day. And that same day on my way to the kitchens I found a dead rat...” He let his words linger on as you nodded. “I managed to put the rat right between his hair and crown and because our hair always stays still and never needs a restyle.” Legolas shrugged.

“He didn’t notice until 10 years later.” You let out a puff of laughter as you watched Legolas in disbelief.

“We’re going to camp here,” Aragorn spoke up making you all nod.

“Alright, we’re going to pick up some wood,” Legolas spoke back in English and looked at you. You nodded and walked with him towards the depth of the woods.

“Well, Mirkwood sounds like a lively place.” You spoke up as you dodged a branch.

“It is.” Legolas smiled. “Lively but a little harsh Im not going to lie.” a sad smile formed on his lips making you frown.

“oh.”

“It’s alright don’t worry.” He chuckled as a way to release the tension that he had created. “I’ll take you someday...” He said out of the blue making both of you share eye contact, sparks flying as you felt his eyes on yours. “I mean if you want...” He stuttered as a coat of red appeared on both your cheeks.

“I’d love to go.”

But that felt like a distant memory. It has been weeks since the ring was destroyed and you hadn’t heard a single word from Legolas about Mirkwood or any of the plans you had made together. You felt like a ghost in his eyes and it saddened you on the days you should have been the happiest.

You watched as the newlyweds walked down the aisle a bright smile on their faces. You felt a ray of happiness dance across your body as you watched your best friend married with giddy smiles dancing on their lips.

~

You walked around the grand hall where they held their wedding feast. You smiled when you spotted the multitude of cakes and foods that decorated the large table.

You smiled again when you saw your favorite; cream puffs. But your smile was quickly wiped away when you saw Legolas talk with one of Arwen’s friends; Leirenna. You knew her very well actually, she wasn’t just Arwen’s friend. She used to be yours or at least that’s what you told yourself.

She was a beautiful Eleth with long auburn hair that almost reached the ground and deep blue eyes that reminded you of the ocean after a storm. You saw the way she was standing, she had a beautiful gown she looked comfortable in and hands that didn’t look used from fighting.

She was a proper Eleth that was born royalty, but so were you the proper part just wasn’t included.

Throughout the entire trip you told yourself you had a chance with the prince of Mirkwood, but every day since you came back you started to think otherwise.

Weights of rocks plopped down your stomach as you watched the girls that looked like preppy copies of Arwen falling at Legolas’s feet, while you were in your corner, trying to breathe properly in your dress and doing your best to hide the small scars from the battle that were slowly fading away.

Arwen approached you as she was finally done chatting with some fellow elves.

“You’ve got twigs in your hair.” She smiled as she removed a strand of leaf and young wood from your locks.

“Sorry.” You replied with a shy smile feeling the feeling of being embarrassed of yourself rise into your stomach. “I came here from the church by horse.” You played with a stand of your long soft braided hair, looking towards the floor as the feeling rose a little higher in your stomach.

“Don’t be sorry. Happens to everyone who likes to live life.” She chuckled. “Can’t count the number of times I've arrived at a meeting with straw in my hair.” She chuckled placing a hand on your shoulder. You nodded still looking towards the floor.

“Go have fun Arwen.” You smiled and pointed towards Aragorn who was talking with Elrond, his stare slowly coming to Arwen. “Go.” You slightly pushing her towards her husband and wiping on a fake smile.

“Y/n-”

“Go!” You waved your hands towards them pushing her away. She smiled in disbelief mouthing 'we're not done here' before slipping into the crowd. You turned to your creampuffs again, knowing where to not look if you didn't want your heart to shatter even more.

You grabbed one with your hands and spotted Gimli walking towards you.

“Hi, Elf.” He spat out as he grabbed a creampuff and stuffed it in his face before taking another one.

“Hey, dwarf.” You replied tasting the sweet taste of your creampuff, looking way slower and more elegant compared to him.

“Not that it's any of my business but you looked depressed.” His honesty took you aback and you almost choked on your cake from laughing.

“You know what?” You asked as you wiped the cream from your nose.

“What?” He spat.

“I always liked you Gimli. You may be a dwarf but your honest, you don’t try to hide things from me.” You continued and took a new taste of your dessert.

“You know what Y/n. I’ve always liked you too.” He nodded “You were the only elf who laughed at my jokes.”

“I mean they were pretty funny.” you nodded wiping your hands on a towel as you finished. You took another one from the plate as Gimli was taking a new one “To our friendship.” You smiled raising the creampuff before clinking it with his.

“To our friendship.” He nodded and started eating too, slowing his pace as he watched you. “So tell me what’s wrong. Legolas again?” You both eyed the elf who was still talking with Leirenna the sight becoming toxic to your stomach.

“What do you mean again?” You wondered as you only reckoned Legolas breaking your heart once.

“Well... You two haven’t been talking since we won and at the coronation, and well, again today.” He pointed out.

"True." You raised an eyebrow and nodded understanding his reasoning.

"Well, yes. Legolas again." You replied not even trying to hide it. He hurted you and you weren't going to play the feeling version of hide and seek.

"Well, that boy is plain stupid. " Gimli grumbled making you laugh. "He's going with a girl like that when he's already won the heart of an elf like you?!"

"Apparently." You sniffed as you looked at the scene, finally feeling your emotions run out. You quickly wiped the tear that had fallen away giving Gimli a sad chuckle as his face turned into a small sympathetic smile.

"A girl like you shouldn't cry over a dumbass like this." He grumbled trying to cheer you up as he grabbed a new pastry from the table.

"Yeah... Probably" You replied a soft sigh flying out your lips as your stare lingered towards Legolas who placed a hand on Leirenna's shoulder before walking away towards Aragorn.

"See! Stupid!" Gimli shrugged his shoulders as he stuffed something new in his mouth not bothering to be polite. You placed your hand on the wood of the table, letting it linger as you felt the bumps of the wood on your fingers.

Gimli said a word you could barely hear before walking towards the beverage section of the table. You were about to reach towards the creampuffs once again when a hand caught yours, lightly slapping it.

You turned towards the person's body and your face twisted when you were face to face with Leirenna.

"You will thank me for this." She let out a fake chuckle that entered your ears like poison.

"Sorry?" You asked as she looked at you with her poisonous stare.

"Well im sure you wouldn't want to gain weight of course. I mean if you want to get a good husband." She said with a small smirk on her lips. "Sure you wouldn't want to meet someone in Valar when you can't even fit into your dress" She pouted. "Valar sounds nice if I'm honest... But Im thinking of staying..." Her eyes struck with wickedness as she looked above your shoulder. You looked behind and saw Legolas talking with Aragorn, the feeling in your stomach reaching down to the tip of your fingers, asking you to punch her in the face as you had done to so many orcs during battles. "Anyways I'm also saying that because im sure I saw you eat at least three when you were talking to that... Dwarf." She shivered almost fearing the race as she pointed towards Gimli is disgust. "I really hope he didn't say anything mean to you." She continued before taking an almond from the bowl and slowly chewing it, making you want to crawl out of your skin.

Her devil smile made you sick and you gave her a tight forced smile clenching the silk of your dress so tight it slowly turned your knuckles white.

"Well, im not like you Leirenna." You calmed down and gently spoke up, channeling all the anger in you into your fist and the soft fabric of the dress, almost ripping it with your nails. "At least I fight and support Middle-Earth. I ran around killing orcs and train enough so I don't have to eat like a rabbit every day to fit into that dress." you gave her a wicked smirk happy of your come back before grabbing a new creampuff and slipping away towards Gimli.

You heard a loud gasp as you walked away, not caring if you had earned a new medal to your already bad reputation. You had already been classified as a non-respectable princess, and being the only Eleth fighting orcs and running around Middle Earth had earned you the top crown. And since then you had no Eleth friends, but elves who respected your duties, hobbits who had traveled far and wide with you, humans who had fought alongside you, and weirdly a dwarf that was always there for you in your saddest days, ready to bombard you with truth bombs and throw the stuck up ways out the window every Eleth in the elven kingdoms spitted on your reputation.

"They're just jealous," Gimli replied as he fixed his ax on his back.

"You don't have to carry that around you know?" You let out a chuckle as you served yourself a drink.

"And I bet you still carry that dagger in your boot." He deadpanned as he pointed to your boots that were well hidden under your dress.

"Well... You get used to it after three years." You said, your eyes darting to Aragorn and Legolas who walked next to you. You eyed Gimli before raising your glass and drinking the whole of your drink in seconds earning a concerned look from Legolas and Aragorn. Gimli let out a large puff of laughter at your action, watching your every move as you reserved yourself some more.

"This is the elven whiskey Y/n. You'll get drunk in a matter of seconds." Legolas said something more than a smile for the first time in weeks as you were serving yourself a large glass, already feeling the strong alcohol flow in your veins.

"Good! anyways since when do you care." You spat out "To Aragorn!" You giggled before drinking the whole integrity of the cup once again, letting out a high pitch scream as the drink hit the back of your throat. You served yourself a new cup, making eye contact with Legolas as you did, raising the glass to his face. "This one is for you breaking my heart." You giggled before chugging the drink and feeling the tears suddenly come back to your eyes as you thought of Legolas, your drunken state not helping your case. "Imma go talk to the bride." You left towards the crowd almost crashing your glass in Legolas's body as a way to hand him your drink. You walked away, gliding past a frozen Legolas.

Legolas eyes the entire group, frozen, mouth open as if he was catching flies. He turned around and shook his head thinking if it was too late to catch you. But before he could even take a step back he was caught by Aragorn and Gimli.

"You're not going anywhere, lass." Aragorn's voice passed through Legolas's ears before he felt four arms taking him to a corner of the room.

"you're not digging yourself a larger whole." Aragorn continued as he dropped Legolas down, him and Gimli blocking the way out.

"Guys I don't know what's wrong! Just let me talk to her!" He exclaimed raising his voice as he wanted to make his way to you. He watched you from the large gap on top of Gimli's head as you walked away in tears towards the gardens.

"How can you not know what's wrong?" Gimli spat out as he folded his arms turning into protective mode for his newfound Eleth best friend.

"Legolas..." Aragorn's voice softened as he tried to reason the elf. "Your plan was a terrible idea." His elvish words rang through the trio, Gimli's face falling in a large frown as he couldn't understand.

"Mind translating!" He raised his voice at the duo.

"But im so close!" He said as he pulled out a ring from his pocket. "Today's the day!" He screamed at his best friend and Gimli eyed the ring, taking it from his hands, Legolas's stare turning towards the dwarf.

"What is this? And in common tongue please!" He grumbled.

"A ring. For Y/n." Legolas replied as he grabbed the ring back from him.

Gimli looked at Legolas as he pocketed the ring and started hysterically laughing at the elf.

Legolas blinked trying to understand's the dwarf's behavior as Gimli wiped the tears of laughter from his eyes.

"Sorry, sorry." He tried to calm his laughter but failed as the elf remained clueless.

"What's so funny?" Legolas's soft voice traveled towards the dwarf who was embedded in laughter.

"It's- it's just that after weeks of ignoring her-" He stopped as he tried to compose himself. "After-" A sharp laugh snaked out of his lips. "She- She thinks you don't like her. Even hate her for that." He let out a loud new chuckle before finally calming himself and making eye contact with the elf. "You broke her heart and now you're telling me you want to ask her to marry you. Ironic, very ironic." He finished before letting out a new chuckle. Aragorn shook his head and patted the clueless Legolas on the shoulder.

"What. Aragorn? Someone, please explain what's happening and why did she run away drunk and crying saying that I broke her heart!" Legolas raised his wavy voice as he felt the room spin, panic settling in his stomach.

"Well... While you were off trying to find the perfect way to ask her to marry you, hid things from her after you confirmed you loved her while we battled at Minas Tirith. Yes, I was there during your little love speech-" Aragorn remarked before clicking his tongue. "She-"

"What's he's trying to say is that you've been ignoring her for three weeks and she felt as though you never meant anything you said. She even thought you liked that she-elf that you were talking to earlier." Gimli grumbled still mad that you were heartbroken because of him.

"Leiraenaia- shit I forgot her name..." He folded his eyes. "What?" He asked in surprise and Gimli couldn't stop laughing at the clueless elf.

"I have to talk to her! I didn't mean to ignore her! I was- Stressed and I- I Didn't want her to find out!" He almost screamed earning a look from a guest passing through. He looked at the two standing in front of him, quickly making his way out of their circle.

"Wow, where are you going love boy." Aragorn caught him but Legolas slipped out of his grip.

"To find the love of my life." He ended the sentence by walking away pushing himself towards the crowd and up to Arwen.

"Have you seen Y/n?" He asked the bride without another word and she pointed to the gardens.

"I don't think she wants to see you." Arwen's deep words sunk into his ears and he clenched his fist letting a sigh of frustration. "Aragorn told me, your plan... Didn't really work if you want my opinion..."

"Thanks, Arwen." He shook his head with a smile of disbelief trying to hold on to the tears that had bloomed up to his eyes.

He stormed out of the grand hall and into the fresh air of the night. The quiet night rang through his delicate ears the softness of the night being broken by soft sobbing sounds. He followed the noise until he arrived near a fountain, where you sat there crying to yourself as the moon lit the small pool of water behind you.

Legolas could only be heard by the gravel that rivered the ground. The soft stones clinked together by every light step he took. He walked towards you and sat at a respectable distance, giving you your space but still being close, Legolas mentally beating himself up for accidentally hurting you as his feelings for you blinded him.

"What do you want?" You sobbed not caring if he saw you cry, the many drinks you had chugged down helping with your uncaring state.

"Im here because there's been a massive misunderstanding." He replied as he placed his hand on the cold stone between the two of you so he could support his body.

"What?" You let out a bitter chuckle before throwing a small rock from the ground into the fountain, making a small splash. "That you played me around during the whole of those three years and you're not into an Eleth that dressed like a guy, fights like a guy, and can't even wear a dress without wanting to rip it out, AND who's capable of eating an entire table of food." You rambled as the tears fell even more from your eyes "That you never loved me even tho you told me in Minas Tirith. That you never brought me to Mirkwood? maybe it's because im not classy enough for your father isn't it? The great king." You bitterly laughed before wiping the tears from your cheeks, just so a new sob could escape your lips. "So you could have someone to flirt with during those long years away, and now that your back you could leave me like one of those cheap arrows you don't mind leaving in the middle of the woods so you could go off and marry someone like Leirenna who won't make you a total fool to the other kingdoms." You let out your final word and let out a new sob, feeling the past events of the week and the judgment you had to face from the other women of your kind tumbling in front of you.

"So that's her name," Legolas told himself and let his hands down in defeat before coming back to his senses.

"Y/n I-" He closed his eyes and you finally looked up to him. "I mean the opposite of everything you just said." He opened his mouth again replaying your words. "I've been in love with you since the start of this whole crazy adventure, and I meant and mean every single thing that was said during battle and I was stupid for trying to keep everything away from you once we came back." Legolas finally felt a few tears come towards his eyes as he saw the pain he had caused you. "I love you because you fight like every manner you were taught were thrown out the window. Because I know I can stand with you in a boring council and joke around if im bored. Or if I can stand in front of a giant buffet and look at each other wondering who can stuff the most marshmallows or creampuffs in their mouths." He smiled as he remembered the days passed in Rohan. "I knew I was in love with you when you first killed that Golbin in the mines of Moria! The second I saw you shoot those goblins Y/n, love, I felt like I was going to fall knees weak for you. Why do you think you had to kill the goblins behind me." He replied the tears now falling.

"Really?" You watched him and sniffed before wiping your nose, the rock that had dropped inside your stomach slowly disintegrating at his love speech.

"Y/n. The one reason I haven't talked to you since we came back is that I was planning a way to give you this." He sighed as he fumbled with his hands before gripping onto the small wooden box that settled at the bottom of his pocket. He reached to give it to you but as you reached for it he grabbed your arm and pulled you into a kiss. The one he longed to rob from you ever since Minas Tirith.

Your eyes opened wide as you felt his lips on yours, your eyelashes brushing his face as you closed your eyes shut and melted into his kiss.

"I-" You whispered.

"Im the sorry one" He nodded placing a strand of loose hair behind your ear. "Here." He took the box opened and took a lot at the ring peacefully laying in it before smiling. "Y/n... Will you marry? And let make me make you the princess of Mirkwood?" You smiled feeling the things you had felt slipping away as you pressed your lips against his once again. You kissed him again adjusting your sitting position on the border of the fountain so you could frame his face with your hands to kiss him better. You chuckled as his braids played in the way of you passing your fingers through his hair, making your fingers tangle in his golden strands.

"Yes." You replied pressing a new kiss to his face. "Yes." You did the same for each yes you implied until you both lost balance and fell into the cold water of the fountain. You let out a giggle as you both realized you weren't drowning, Legolas catching your lips into a new kiss as you found peace in the situation.

"The water's cold" You giggled.

"Wait, where did the ring go?" he questioned almost in panic. He let his grip on you go and you layed in the water with your elbows so your head would be out in the air. He searched the bottom of the pool and finally caught the delicate ring.

"Found it!" He exclaimed making you smile as he grabbed your cold wet hand and pressed a kiss to it, making you giggle as he did. "For my future wife." He smiled as he slipped the ring on your finger.

"Right." You smiled as you liked his words. "Your future wife."

[a-lonely-dunedain]

27, 28 and 38 💛

27. "Do you have any memorable stories about interactions with other people? Nice, funny, just plain weird?"

oh I sure do! man it's hard to pick tho.... ok so here's one! a looong long time ago back when Ethedis was just a level 20-something baby, I was doing the Baggins Birthday quest and needed to get to Rivendell. well, baby me didn't know about the Gandalf port, so I ran all the way across the overleveled Lonelands and through half the Trollshaws, up until I crossed the Ford. well there's stealthed lynxes up there and poor Ethedis was no match for them and got booted back down to Tornenhad. luckily there happened to be a level 50 Bear over there and I begged him for an escort through the last leg of the journey. long story short we made it and I got my scribe's stand 😊 but that's not where the story ends!

see, a few months ago I was on my hobbit hunter Belta, and when I logged in at the West Bree Gate I encountered some friendly roleplaying hobbits who were about level 6, like we're talking baby alts. we exchanged greetings and I went on my way, expecting not to see them again. I forget what errands I was doing on Belta at the time, but I eventually ended up at the last bridge, and who should I find there but the Fellowship of the Level 6 Roleplayers! they had adopted a level 20 human at some point, and were trying to make it to Rivendell and asked my hobbit for help. naturally I obliged, after all, I was wearing my "Honorary Ranger" title at the time so I had to live up to it! the rangers' reputation was at stake! so after a daring trek across the Trollshaws my hunter finally had her Aragorn Moment(TM) and got this group of tiny little hobbits all the way to Rivendell!

and that night it all came full circle, and in escorting these low level characters though a place they Should Not Be, I finally repaid the favor I had asked from that level 50 bear all those years ago (looks like we also picked up an elf at some point too)

28. "Have you been playing during any major changes? How did you feel about those? (LI revamp, major class skill resets, etc.)"

a few yes! I was here for the new LIs of course, and some class changes (rip sic 'em, you will be missed 😢)

38. "Do you have any favorite soundtracks from around the game?"

do I??!??!?!?!!!? yes. yes I do :)

I think just about everyone would put something from Rohan somewhere on their lists so that pretty much goes without saying. personally I love the Dale Lands music! well everything in the strongholds of the north actually. but if I had to pick a track that stood out to me as like, my favorite favorite, it would currently be Solitude of the Northern Vales or The Beorning Lands. like those songs are just so peaceful. I was going through a pretty rough patch when that area was released and LOTRO was the best escape I had, so those songs just feel like the musical equivalent of a warm hug to me. Anytime I'm sad I usually just end up in the Vales of Anduin to listen to that music and like, look at trees, it's great I would recommend it

[tolkien-feels]

Gimli (my beloved) and grima? (I'm a hobbit and lotr books only kind of person sorry for the lack of niche characters)

Nooo don't say that, characters aren't better just because they're niche, Frodo is literally my Tolkien Blorbo!!

I'm also loving the alliteration of the character choices

Gimli

one aspect about them i love: His deep love for all that is beautiful. I love beautiful things myself, but on a very superficial level? Things are pleasant to look at, that's all. But Gimli often speaks of beauty which stirs emotions and I love seeing the world through his eyes in that way. Give me a bow and call me Legolas because I would visit the Glittering Caves after being moved by Gimli's speech

one aspect i wish more people understood about them: He has so much depth! I've mentioned before that I feel like Gimli is beloved in the fandom but not taken seriously by it. He seems almost an interchangeable dwarf? Or maybe the Platonic ideal of a dwarf, actually. But Gimli has a very specific personality. He's sensitive and wise and courteous and full of regrets. He's complex, damnit!

one (or more) headcanon(s) i have about this character: He's slightly cynical and pessimistic. Hoping against hope doesn't come easily to him. Like Frodo, he does what's right not always because he thinks there's any hope of it making any difference, but just because it's the right thing to do

one character i love seeing them interact with: Listen, Legolas is the most cliche answer I can give and I know it but. It's Legolas.

one character i wish they would interact with/interact with more: Pippin. You know that scene where he just sends Pippin off to bed while randomly saying how much he loves him? Give me more of that please!!

one (or more) headcanon(s) i have that involve them and one other character: He makes so many toys for Aragorn’s children it's frankly obnoxious. Aragorn has asked him to tone it down more than once but he will not, thank you. He would make jewels for Arwen but she's too much like her grandmother's, he doesn't dare to presume he could improve on her beauty. But kids are free real estate to be spoiled :D

Grima

one aspect about them i love: If I'm being entirely honest, I haven't spent as much time thinking about Grima as I have about characters that are objectively much more minor than him (sorry Grima!) so this is probably a veeeery basic answer, but my favorite aspect is that he shows me the importance of what Faramir says, that war must be while we defend our lives against a destroyer who would devour all. Seeing the value of kindness comes very easily for me, but Grima teaches me a veeeery value lesson that kindness is not the same as avoiding conflict. If you don't stand up for yourself you end up allegedly eating a hobbit, you know? Sometimes you just have to take a stand

one aspect i wish more people understood about them: I'm hardly the one to be opinionated about him! One aspect I wish I understood more about him is that he's just a very scared character. Like I said a while ago, his a poor meow meow like Gollum, and I keep forgetting that just because I spend less time with him :/

one (or more) headcanon(s) i have about this character: Finally something I can answer easily! I love to take the Wormtongue epithet and taking it to its logical extreme. I think of other dragons of Tolkien and can't help wondering if Grima isn't actually an excellent judge of character. Like, far above average, could give Gandalf a run for his money. He's afraid of people like Saruman and Eomer because he's keenly aware of how dangerous they can be in a way other people suspect but don't know for sure.

one character i love seeing them interact with: Theoden. I find it fascinating how Theoden tries to walk a line between justice and mercy, and how Grima doubles down on treachery at every turn

one character i wish they would interact with/interact with more: Hm... Good question. I've always thought of him as a bit of a foil to Faramir, but I can't see how they'd interact in canon? But hypothetically, I wish they would, I think that'd be interesting

one (or more) headcanon(s) i have that involve them and one other character: It's much, much easier for him to be cruel to the men of Rohan than to the hobbits. You'd think not, right? But he doesn't feel guilty about fighting back against strong Men who would kill him in a heartbeat, while hobbits unfortunately make him feel like he's kicking puppies. He'll do it because he sees no other options, but he gets no satisfaction out of it

Can I just thank you, btw, I think I like Grima more now lol I'm going to pioneer a couple therapy style where you just have to take an active and good-faith interest in someone and write out answers in detail