#isilion and tarion

[extendedtkwrtrilogyend]

Chapter XXVI: (EXT) The Fall of Dol Guldur (Pt. III)

It would be a few days later that word would come from Celeborn in the south. When I was not deep in thought, I spent time with Êlúriel and the children. They were growing up so quickly right before my eyes. On this day, I sat on a bench as I watched them together in the garden, I could not help but see how much Tárimë had begun to look like Êlúriel. So much had changed in the world I had not noticed. Even the trees of the forest seem to sense the change of the ages.

“Ada,” Tárimë said walking toward me. “See. It is a butterfly. It is so pretty, is it not?”

“It is,” I said watching as it fluttered its wings while sitting quietly on Tárimë’s hand. Suddenly it took flight high above us until it was gone.

“You are going to leave again soon,” she said. “I do not want you to go, but I know you must. When your return, will the war be over?”

“I hope it will be, Tárimë,” I said. “It has lasted far too long.”

She sat beside me and leaned her head upon my shoulder.

“Why are there such things as war,” she asked. “I do not understand them.”

“Neither do I,” I answered. It was true—I did not understand them. I did know why there was a need for them. They seemed to steal lives and souls over something as meaningless as power. It seemed to be the only thing any one being could keep for themselves as things intangible as time could not be tamed.

“War is like winter,” she said. “The days are shorter and the nights longer. Like a season that never ends.”

I felt a chill run through me when I heard her words. Êlúriel had said them to me before I left for Dagorlad. I looked at Tárimë—her face stoic and lost in thought.

“You are wise for your age,” I said softly. “Very much so.”

“Nana said that to me long ago,” she answered. “I take after Queen Êlúriel.”

“Your mother was right,” I began. “You are very much like her if not rather short.”

She looked at me and smiled.

“I have not yet come of age,” she said giggling. “When I do, will I be as graceful as a queen?”

“You already are,” I said kissing atop her head.

We sat together quietly—watching Êlúriel with Eärluin and Auríel as Nenduîl and Aranduil played nearby.

“Thranduil,” I heard a voice say behind me. I looked up to see Elmîr. I rose with Tárimë.

“Yes,” I asked. “What is it?”

“One comes from Lothlórien to see you,” he said.

“Thank you,” I said. I turned to Tárimë. “I will see you before I leave. Go to Nana now.”

She nodded and walked away slowly. She glanced back once with a look that nearly broke my heart. I nodded to Elmîr and we made our way into the palace and to the throne room where two elven men stood surrounded by my council and my court.

“I thought you said one, Elmîr,” I said.

“They accompanied the one that came from Lothlórien,” he whispered.

I stood before the two men—both with long golden hair and grey eyes. They bowed to me.

“Your Majesty,” one said. “I am Isílion and my brother Tárion. We come to you from Lothlórien with a bearer of a message.”

“Where is this messenger,” I asked.

Out of the shadow stepped figure hooded in a white cloak. Once removed, the room fell silent. I approached her.

“Lady Galadriel,” I said. “This is quite an honor and rather unexpected. I thought you to be in Caras Galadhon under the protection of guards.”

“I was there,” she began. “And Caras Galadhon is well protected. I come of my own will to you. Our borders are safe as our warriors were able to push the glamhoth back from whence they came. Dol Guldur. It is now time for you to join Celeborn to bring down what is left of Sauron’s forces that remain.”

“I thought you would be making your way westward by now,” I said. “There is no need for many of our kin to stay longer than we need to. Most of all you, daughter of Finarfin. I am to think you remain for Celeborn?”

“You may think many things, Thranduil, as you will. But I know your heart and it is with your people as ours.”

I motioned for Fëaluin to come to me.

“Prepare to leave at dawn,” I whispered. 

He nodded and left with Sildúr and Aradin. I returned my gaze to Galadriel. Her beauty had not shown and signs of fading as her age would dictate. She smiled serenely at me.

“Will you remain within my halls until our return,” I asked.

“If it pleases you, Thranduil,” she said. “I will see you and Celeborn again and if it be here then so will it be.”

“Very well,” I said. “I will have my court prepare quarters for you and your companions.”

“I know I will be well served and protected,” Galadriel said. 

Isílriel, Ardúin and her sisters Linurial and Súlthulë bowed reverently and escorted Galadriel and her companions away. I gave Eldôr a look he found amusing.

“Thranduil,” he began. “I am quite sure the children will enjoy her company.”

“What are you not telling me, Uncle,” I asked.

“What would I keep from you,” he asked.

“I am not fool enough to think that the Lady of Light has left her kingdom without someone to see to its routine while she is away. There are only two directions an elf will go and often that is not east to Mirkwood without cause.”

“Elrond remains in Rivendell,” he said. “I do not know whether or not many remain there or in Lothlórien, but he is well aware of the whereabouts of his entire family.”

“Good,” I said. “Then I will not awaken to any more of them before I leave for battle or is that wishful thinking?”

“No more,” he said smiling. “But they are your kin, you realize.”

“I do not need reminding, Eldôr,” I said. “I need this war to end before my kingdom becomes a bastion for any more of my estranged kin.”

I made my way to my study and watched the waters falling in the fading light of day. Tomorrow I would ride to my last battle in this world. I could not help but wonder if I would see Legolas again. 

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

Before the light of day, I was dressed and prepared to ride to Dol Guldur. I did not want to wake Nenduîl and Tárimë as I knew they would worry. I walked through the front gates to where my warriors waited for me with Fëaluin, Eldôr, Elranduil and Nimlos.

“Thranduil, son of Oropher,” I heard a voice whisper to me. I turned around to see Galadriel standing behind me with Êlúriel and our children. “We have little to fear for you are your father’s son and he would be proud of you.”

“Thank you, Galadriel,” I said. I kissed her hand. “Look southward to our victorious return.”

She smiled and nodded. I approached Êlúriel.

“I leave you again,” I said. “One last time.”

“For one last time I will say 'return to me',” she said.

“I will,” I answered. “You have my word.”

I kissed her quickly and I went on my way. As a stable hand brought my horse, I noticed Isílion and Tárion speaking with Elmîr and Sildúr. Upon my approach, they bowed.

“You are to take me to Celeborn,” I asked them.

“Of course,” Tárion said. “When His Majesty is ready.”

I looked at my warriors and mounted my horse. The others followed suit. I gave the command and the banners were raised.

“Noro,” I said. “To Dol Guldur.”

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

We rode in silence—our minds deep in thought. Would this truly be the last battle I would ever see? Would I return home and would I ever see Legolas again? The unknown is often the only thing we know—it is the certainty that anything can and will happen. The mystery lies within us as to the outcome. I always thought I knew what I would do any given moment and realizing too late that preparation was merely expectation of something unexpected.

As we made our way closer to Dol Guldur, we me Tarthôn and Aruilos at their position at Emyn Duir as their men were packing the camp to move further South.

“Father,” he said. “It is good to see you again.”

“What news have you heard from Celeborn,” I asked.

“His warriors were able to force what was left of the glamhoth into their garrison,” Aruilos said. “Not long after many were lost not far from Angrenost. Lord Celeborn sent word to us that they have surrounded them preparing to lay siege upon them.”

“Upon my arrival, no less,” I said. “Let us go together so we might set up camp before nightfall.”

They nodded and hurried to their horses.

“Where is Ardôr,” Elranduil asked looking for his son. “I thought he would be here with Êlenuil and Elendôr.”

“They went on ahead, Ada,” Orísil said as he rode up to us. “Not long after Celeborn sent word to you.”

“He knew of the messenger,” he asked.

“You mean Lady Galadriel,” Orísil said smiling. “Yes, of course.”

“He told you this himself,” Nimlos asked.

“No,” he answered. “From one called Glorfindel.”

Elranduil let out a deep sigh as Nimlos laughed with Eldôr.

“Come,” I said sternly. “Let us not tarry any longer.”

I thought back long ago to when I first met Glorfindel. Beyond what I remembered of him, I was lost in the memory of my father and Melros I lost at Dagorlad. Before long my thoughts were turned to seeing the Elves of Lothlórien making camp. When we had stopped, I motioned to Fëaluin. He took charge of preparing my tent. As I dismounted, I stood beside Elranduil, Nimlos, Eldôr, Tarthôn Orísil and Aruilos as Isílion and Tárion waited with us as Haldir and his brothers Rúmil and Orophin approached us.

“Your Majesty,” Haldir said bowing. “Good to see you again. Lord Celeborn awaits you in his tent. Shall we, Your Majesty?”

I nodded and we made our way toward a large white tent with silver and white banners at its doors. I entered to see Ardôr and his sons waiting with us with Celeborn.

“Celeborn, son of Galadhon,” I said approaching him. “I have come to you as promised.”

“So you have,” he said. “I am indebted to you.”

“You need not be,” I said. “You know me well enough to know I would do anything to bring peace to my people. We have been cast asunder by the evil of Sauron for far too long. I wish to put an end to it. My life is a small price to pay should that be the cost.”

“Not you, Thranduil,” he said. “You will not fall here or anywhere I imagine. You might well be the strongest of our kin. I know you are the most headstrong of our kind.”

“I have lost too much not to be so,” I said. “Too much I have endured not to be strong when I must. But enough idle chatter. How do we bring about the fall of Dol Guldur once and for all?”

He went to his table as the tent began to fill with elves that would lead the charge. When everyone was accounted, I stood with Celeborn at his table with Fëaluin at my side. Before we could start, two elves entered.

“Many apologies for my lateness,” the first said. He had long hair of gold and grey eyes that seemed softened by tragedy but no less courageous.

“None is necessary,” Celeborn said smiling. “You remember Thranduil, do you not?”

“It has been quite a long time,” he began as he bowed. “Perhaps too long.”

“Galathil,” I said. “It has been too long.”

The other elf that entered stood beside Celeborn quietly. He bowed politely—his youth obvious to everyone, with his soft brown hair and deep green eyes.

“This is Ëarmîr,” Celeborn said. “He is council to me and my brother, Galathil.” I nodded and once again all fell quiet as we readied ourselves to discuss our offensive.

“Many orcs may not remain, but they fight no less fiercely,” Celeborn began. 

“Their allegiance is to one greater than life itself—to the one that they have given what is left of a soul that remains within them.”

“It was the detriment that they parceled themselves thin,” Galathil said. “Quickly they fell at Angrenost underestimating that which they thought powerless.”

“The Ents,” Ëarmîr said softly. “They left few to retreat save one or two—far less than what returned from the borders of Lothlórien.”

“We have the advantage of limiting when and where they fight surrounding their fortress,” I said. “But not long will it be before they decide to give all or nothing to what little they have left. Let the bowmen take as many down as allowed and the rest of us will wait for their emergence from squalor—for that what will be too much to bare.”

“I will prepare my men tonight,” Aradin said. “With the archers of Lothlorien, we should have plenty to surround the whole of Dol Guldur and hold them for days.”

I nodded and he rose and left quickly with Elmîr close behind.

“This will be the last battle we shall fight,” Celeborn said.

“It has to be,” I said. “For if we do not win, everyone in this world will live in darkness.”

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

After much discussion, I left Celeborn’s tent for mine. I knew at first light, my last battle would begin. I looked South to a familiar sight—the flames of Orodruin. As they had burned for as long as I could remember, I thought of all that were fighting not far from where so many of my warriors fell beside my father.

“Ada,” I heard behind me. “Might I have a word?”

“Yes, Tarthôn,” I answered as I entered my tent with him.

I sat in my seat beside my table as Tarthôn sat on my chaise nearby.

“What worries you,” I asked.

“You worry me,” he said. “I know what you lost in similar circumstances. I fear you would allow yourself to fall.”

“There is no need to worry,” I said smiling. “I would not do such a thing. I have had plenty of time think on it, but there were far more things I had to live for. You and Legolas, Nenduîl and Tárimë. My people. Êlúriel. I worry how it would be should I not return against my will.”

“You will return, Ada. And so will I.”

“Why are you so sure of such things,” I asked.

“Because, I was told,” he said. “Though I have a family of my own, I still in need of a father. You will keep your word you made to Melros. It still ails you.”

“Yes, son,” I answered. “It does.”

“You have nothing to worry about,” he began. “You are as great a father as you are a king. As Legolas, I will keep my word and return home.”

“You are a good son,” I said, remembering Melros’ words to me. “A very good son. I am proud to have raised you. You are much a part of me as Legolas.”

He smiled and bowed to me.

“See you at first light, Ada,” he said. "And when we complete our task, we will ride home together. I love you, Ada.”

“I love you as well, Tarthôn.”

He left me alone to think. Silence demands to be heard—it can be sharper than a blade and more painful. I tried to keep my thoughts from clashing like blades in my mind. I realized I had not fought many wars but one. There had only been times of peace intermingled with battles. When I found a calm within me, the darkness had begun to lighten. It was time once more to wage war with evil.

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

In the twilight of the coming day, I saw that the elven troops had surrounded the garrison of Dol Guldur. The orcs would use their height to rain arrows down upon us. Aradin had positioned archers a distance away and as high as the crumbling remains of the walls of Dol Guldur. Surrounding Celeborn and Me were shields to deflect arrows away from troops at the slope. At the first ray of light, arrows fell from above and over us. I glanced at Celeborn and he nodded.

“Noro, thî,” he shouted and hundreds of elven warriors ran straight toward the ruins from which orcs ran to meet them in battle. 

We rode into the fray together—into a fury that created its own winds with the blood of the slaughtered blowing in the air. I swung my sword until the pain was nearly unbearable when all of sudden everything stopped abruptly. I looked around me—not one elf nor one orc moved. They were looking to the south toward Mordor.

Friend and foe stood together watching what seemed out of place to us. We felt the earth rumbling and rolling as a wave on the sea. Orodruin seemed to turn from orange to red then fade to black. Only puffs of dark clouds erupted from it—eventually fading into daylight.

“It is done,” I heard Eldôr say to me. “It is finally done.”

“Perhaps,” Celeborn said. “But what there is left, we must destroy.”

As nothing had happened, the battle continued well into dusk when we found we stood amidst the corpses of orcs and some elves. I began to worry once more—my heart beating so loudly I heard not a word.

“Thranduil,” I heard.

I looked up to see Elranduil with Nimlos and Ardôr, Orísil and Tarthôn. I felt some comfort when I saw Eldôr speaking with Celeborn and Galathil.

“Where is Êlenuil,” I asked. “And his brother Elendôr?

“There,” Elranduil pointed. 

I looked to see them alive and well, speaking with Aruilos, Elmîr and Fëaluin. When I saw Isílion and Tárion with Haldir, Orophin and Rúmil, I knew our loses were very few. It took me some time to reach land unsoiled by death. When I found my footing night had begun to fall.

“We can rest,” Galathil said. “For the first time, we can rest. The ring has been destroyed.”

“We will return to Mirkwood tomorrow,” I said. “Victorious.”

I went to my tent for the first time feeling thousands of years of darkness no longer weighing down the night as the stars seemed to shine brighter than they have since I was a youth.”––TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 12-22-17

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

[tkwrtrilogy2]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Why,” I asked. “Something amiss?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I could not contain my joy and embraced him tightly.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Everyone broke into laughter.

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

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

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

They looked at him and then at me.

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Worse,” Tarthôn said. “Far worse.”

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

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

[iamjaynaemarie]

Galadriel arrives in Mirkwood with a message: time to fight the last battle. Thranduil makes his way to Dol Guldur. He meets up with Celeborn and his brother Galathil (you know him as the father of Nimloth, wife of Dior and mother of Elwing). They prepare to the last garrison of Sauron while the rest of the world fights in the south and two hobbits and Gollum make their way to the fires 🔥 of Mt. Doom. But you know that. 😌

Chapter XXVI: (EXT) The Fall of Dol Guldur (Pt. III)

It would be a few days later that word would come from Celeborn in the south. When I was not deep in thought, I spent time with Êlúriel and the children. They were growing up so quickly right before my eyes. On this day, I sat on a bench as I watched them together in the garden, I could not help but see how much Tárimë had begun to look like Êlúriel. So much had changed in the world I had not noticed. Even the trees of the forest seem to sense the change of the ages.

“Ada,” Tárimë said walking toward me. “See. It is a butterfly. It is so pretty, is it not?”

“It is,” I said watching as it fluttered its wings while sitting quietly on Tárimë’s hand. Suddenly it took flight high above us until it was gone.

“You are going to leave again soon,” she said. “I do not want you to go, but I know you must. When your return, will the war be over?”

“I hope it will be, Tárimë,” I said. “It has lasted far too long.”

She sat beside me and leaned her head upon my shoulder.

“Why are there such things as war,” she asked. “I do not understand them.”

“Neither do I,” I answered. It was true—I did not understand them. I did know why there was a need for them. They seemed to steal lives and souls over something as meaningless as power. It seemed to be the only thing any one being could keep for themselves as things intangible as time could not be tamed.

“War is like winter,” she said. “The days are shorter and the nights longer. Like a season that never ends.”

I felt a chill run through me when I heard her words. Êlúriel had said them to me before I left for Dagorlad. I looked at Tárimë—her face stoic and lost in thought.

“You are wise for your age,” I said softly. “Very much so.”

“Nana said that to me long ago,” she answered. “I take after Queen Êlúriel.”

“Your mother was right,” I began. “You are very much like her if not rather short.”

She looked at me and smiled.

“I have not yet come of age,” she said giggling. “When I do, will I be as graceful as a queen?”

“You already are,” I said kissing atop her head.

We sat together quietly—watching Êlúriel with Eärluin and Auríel as Nenduîl and Aranduil played nearby.

“Thranduil,” I heard a voice say behind me. I looked up to see Elmîr. I rose with Tárimë.

“Yes,” I asked. “What is it?”

“One comes from Lothlórien to see you,” he said.

“Thank you,” I said. I turned to Tárimë. “I will see you before I leave. Go to Nana now.”

She nodded and walked away slowly. She glanced back once with a look that nearly broke my heart. I nodded to Elmîr and we made our way into the palace and to the throne room where two elven men stood surrounded by my council and my court.

“I thought you said one, Elmîr,” I said.

“They accompanied the one that came from Lothlórien,” he whispered.

I stood before the two men—both with long golden hair and grey eyes. They bowed to me.

“Your Majesty,” one said. “I am Isílion and my brother Tárion. We come to you from Lothlórien with a bearer of a message.”

“Where is this messenger,” I asked.

Out of the shadow stepped figure hooded in a white cloak. Once removed, the room fell silent. I approached her.

“Lady Galadriel,” I said. “This is quite an honor and rather unexpected. I thought you to be in Caras Galadhon under the protection of guards.”

“I was there,” she began. “And Caras Galadhon is well protected. I come of my own will to you. Our borders are safe as our warriors were able to push the glamhoth back from whence they came. Dol Guldur. It is now time for you to join Celeborn to bring down what is left of Sauron’s forces that remain.”

“I thought you would be making your way westward by now,” I said. “There is no need for many of our kin to stay longer than we need to. Most of all you, daughter of Finarfin. I am to think you remain for Celeborn?”

“You may think many things, Thranduil, as you will. But I know your heart and it is with your people as ours.”

I motioned for Fëaluin to come to me.

“Prepare to leave at dawn,” I whispered. 

He nodded and left with Sildúr and Aradin. I returned my gaze to Galadriel. Her beauty had not shown and signs of fading as her age would dictate. She smiled serenely at me.

“Will you remain within my halls until our return,” I asked.

“If it pleases you, Thranduil,” she said. “I will see you and Celeborn again and if it be here then so will it be.”

“Very well,” I said. “I will have my court prepare quarters for you and your companions.”

“I know I will be well served and protected,” Galadriel said. 

Isílriel, Ardúin and her sisters Linurial and Súlthulë bowed reverently and escorted Galadriel and her companions away. I gave Eldôr a look he found amusing.

“Thranduil,” he began. “I am quite sure the children will enjoy her company.”

“What are you not telling me, Uncle,” I asked.

“What would I keep from you,” he asked.

“I am not fool enough to think that the Lady of Light has left her kingdom without someone to see to its routine while she is away. There are only two directions an elf will go and often that is not east to Mirkwood without cause.”

“Elrond remains in Rivendell,” he said. “I do not know whether or not many remain there or in Lothlórien, but he is well aware of the whereabouts of his entire family.”

“Good,” I said. “Then I will not awaken to any more of them before I leave for battle or is that wishful thinking?”

“No more,” he said smiling. “But they are your kin, you realize.”

“I do not need reminding, Eldôr,” I said. “I need this war to end before my kingdom becomes a bastion for any more of my estranged kin.”

I made my way to my study and watched the waters falling in the fading light of day. Tomorrow I would ride to my last battle in this world. I could not help but wonder if I would see Legolas again. 

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

Before the light of day, I was dressed and prepared to ride to Dol Guldur. I did not want to wake Nenduîl and Tárimë as I knew they would worry. I walked through the front gates to where my warriors waited for me with Fëaluin, Eldôr, Elranduil and Nimlos.

“Thranduil, son of Oropher,” I heard a voice whisper to me. I turned around to see Galadriel standing behind me with Êlúriel and our children. “We have little to fear for you are your father’s son and he would be proud of you.”

“Thank you, Galadriel,” I said. I kissed her hand. “Look southward to our victorious return.”

She smiled and nodded. I approached Êlúriel.

“I leave you again,” I said. “One last time.”

“For one last time I will say ‘return to me’,” she said.

“I will,” I answered. “You have my word.”

I kissed her quickly and I went on my way. As a stable hand brought my horse, I noticed Isílion and Tárion speaking with Elmîr and Sildúr. Upon my approach, they bowed.

“You are to take me to Celeborn,” I asked them.

“Of course,” Tárion said. “When His Majesty is ready.”

I looked at my warriors and mounted my horse. The others followed suit. I gave the command and the banners were raised.

“Noro,” I said. “To Dol Guldur.”

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

We rode in silence—our minds deep in thought. Would this truly be the last battle I would ever see? Would I return home and would I ever see Legolas again? The unknown is often the only thing we know—it is the certainty that anything can and will happen. The mystery lies within us as to the outcome. I always thought I knew what I would do any given moment and realizing too late that preparation was merely expectation of something unexpected.

As we made our way closer to Dol Guldur, we me Tarthôn and Aruilos at their position at Emyn Duir as their men were packing the camp to move further South.

“Father,” he said. “It is good to see you again.”

“What news have you heard from Celeborn,” I asked.

“His warriors were able to force what was left of the glamhoth into their garrison,” Aruilos said. “Not long after many were lost not far from Angrenost. Lord Celeborn sent word to us that they have surrounded them preparing to lay siege upon them.”

“Upon my arrival, no less,” I said. “Let us go together so we might set up camp before nightfall.”

They nodded and hurried to their horses.

“Where is Ardôr,” Elranduil asked looking for his son. “I thought he would be here with Êlenuil and Elendôr.”

“They went on ahead, Ada,” Orísil said as he rode up to us. “Not long after Celeborn sent word to you.”

“He knew of the messenger,” he asked.

“You mean Lady Galadriel,” Orísil said smiling. “Yes, of course.”

“He told you this himself,” Nimlos asked.

“No,” he answered. “From one called Glorfindel.”

Elranduil let out a deep sigh as Nimlos laughed with Eldôr.

“Come,” I said sternly. “Let us not tarry any longer.”

I thought back long ago to when I first met Glorfindel. Beyond what I remembered of him, I was lost in the memory of my father and Melros I lost at Dagorlad. Before long my thoughts were turned to seeing the Elves of Lothlórien making camp. When we had stopped, I motioned to Fëaluin. He took charge of preparing my tent. As I dismounted, I stood beside Elranduil, Nimlos, Eldôr, Tarthôn Orísil and Aruilos as Isílion and Tárion waited with us as Haldir and his brothers Rúmil and Orophin approached us.

“Your Majesty,” Haldir said bowing. “Good to see you again. Lord Celeborn awaits you in his tent. Shall we, Your Majesty?”

I nodded and we made our way toward a large white tent with silver and white banners at its doors. I entered to see Ardôr and his sons waiting with us with Celeborn.

“Celeborn, son of Galadhon,” I said approaching him. “I have come to you as promised.”

“So you have,” he said. “I am indebted to you.”

“You need not be,” I said. “You know me well enough to know I would do anything to bring peace to my people. We have been cast asunder by the evil of Sauron for far too long. I wish to put an end to it. My life is a small price to pay should that be the cost.”

“Not you, Thranduil,” he said. “You will not fall here or anywhere I imagine. You might well be the strongest of our kin. I know you are the most headstrong of our kind.”

“I have lost too much not to be so,” I said. “Too much I have endured not to be strong when I must. But enough idle chatter. How do we bring about the fall of Dol Guldur once and for all?”

He went to his table as the tent began to fill with elves that would lead the charge. When everyone was accounted, I stood with Celeborn at his table with Fëaluin at my side. Before we could start, two elves entered.

“Many apologies for my lateness,” the first said. He had long hair of gold and grey eyes that seemed softened by tragedy but no less courageous.

“None is necessary,” Celeborn said smiling. “You remember Thranduil, do you not?”

“It has been quite a long time,” he began as he bowed. “Perhaps too long.”

“Galathil,” I said. “It has been too long.”

The other elf that entered stood beside Celeborn quietly. He bowed politely—his youth obvious to everyone, with his soft brown hair and deep green eyes.

“This is Ëarmîr,” Celeborn said. “He is council to me and my brother, Galathil.” I nodded and once again all fell quiet as we readied ourselves to discuss our offensive.

“Many orcs may not remain, but they fight no less fiercely,” Celeborn began. 

“Their allegiance is to one greater than life itself—to the one that they have given what is left of a soul that remains within them.”

“It was the detriment that they parceled themselves thin,” Galathil said. “Quickly they fell at Angrenost underestimating that which they thought powerless.”

“The Ents,” Ëarmîr said softly. “They left few to retreat save one or two—far less than what returned from the borders of Lothlórien.”

“We have the advantage of limiting when and where they fight surrounding their fortress,” I said. “But not long will it be before they decide to give all or nothing to what little they have left. Let the bowmen take as many down as allowed and the rest of us will wait for their emergence from squalor—for that what will be too much to bare.”

“I will prepare my men tonight,” Aradin said. “With the archers of Lothlorien, we should have plenty to surround the whole of Dol Guldur and hold them for days.”

I nodded and he rose and left quickly with Elmîr close behind.

“This will be the last battle we shall fight,” Celeborn said.

“It has to be,” I said. “For if we do not win, everyone in this world will live in darkness.”

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

After much discussion, I left Celeborn’s tent for mine. I knew at first light, my last battle would begin. I looked South to a familiar sight—the flames of Orodruin. As they had burned for as long as I could remember, I thought of all that were fighting not far from where so many of my warriors fell beside my father.

“Ada,” I heard behind me. “Might I have a word?”

“Yes, Tarthôn,” I answered as I entered my tent with him.

I sat in my seat beside my table as Tarthôn sat on my chaise nearby.

“What worries you,” I asked.

“You worry me,” he said. “I know what you lost in similar circumstances. I fear you would allow yourself to fall.”

“There is no need to worry,” I said smiling. “I would not do such a thing. I have had plenty of time think on it, but there were far more things I had to live for. You and Legolas, Nenduîl and Tárimë. My people. Êlúriel. I worry how it would be should I not return against my will.”

“You will return, Ada. And so will I.”

“Why are you so sure of such things,” I asked.

“Because, I was told,” he said. “Though I have a family of my own, I still in need of a father. You will keep your word you made to Melros. It still ails you.”

“Yes, son,” I answered. “It does.”

“You have nothing to worry about,” he began. “You are as great a father as you are a king. As Legolas, I will keep my word and return home.”

“You are a good son,” I said, remembering Melros’ words to me. “A very good son. I am proud to have raised you. You are much a part of me as Legolas.”

He smiled and bowed to me.

“See you at first light, Ada,” he said. “And when we complete our task, we will ride home together. I love you, Ada.”

“I love you as well, Tarthôn.”

He left me alone to think. Silence demands to be heard—it can be sharper than a blade and more painful. I tried to keep my thoughts from clashing like blades in my mind. I realized I had not fought many wars but one. There had only been times of peace intermingled with battles. When I found a calm within me, the darkness had begun to lighten. It was time once more to wage war with evil.”––TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 12-22-17

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