#thranduil and isilriel

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Chapter XXI (EXT): The Best of Sons (Pt. VIII/a)

“It was not long after the wedding did time swiftly bring to Mirkwood more little elves for its last generation. As many things often came to me in the early morning, I was caught unaware. I was alone in my chambers resting peacefully when my doors flew open and an excited Isílriel ran in with Fëaluin not far behind.

“Ada,” she yelled. “Come quickly! You must come quickly.”

“Isílriel, please,” I said covering my ears. “Whatever it is, I am quite sure it can be said in a whisper."

“Why are you still in bed,” she asked.

“Because, I am the king,” I said. “Why are you in my chambers yelling at me so early?”

“Nana said I would find you here,” she said.

“Well,” I said as I sat up. “Imagine finding her husband in our room.”

“Súlelenth and Aradúlin have given birth,” Fëaluin said, motioning to my dressers to enter. “We have three new elves.”

“Three,” I asked, motioning for Isílriel to turn away as I stood up and walked to my dressing corner. “I thought two maidens were married nine months ago. Why would there be three elven children born?”

“Súlelenth has given birth to twins,” Isílriel said. “One of each.”

“One of each,” I laughed. “Each of what?”

“A boy and a girl,” Fëaluin said, lightly smacking my head. “Aradúlin gave birth a boy.”

“Where is Êlúriel,” I asked. I knew she had spent most of the night overseeing the princesses with the ladies.

“Nana is with Súlelenth,” Isílriel said turning around. “Ëariâth is with Aradúlin, of course. I cannot choose where to stay, Ada. They are all so beautiful.”

When the dressers were done, they left us alone.

“To whom shall I go first,” I asked. 

Their faces changed instantly—gone was the excitement they once had.

“What is the matter?”

“It is Súlelenth,” Fëaluin began. “She was weakened by labor. She lives but Linurial confided in me she will not make it should any illness disturb her delicate nature.”

“What of her children,” I asked.

“They are healthy, Ada,” Isílriel said sadly. “They have fared better than their mother.”

I embraced my daughter as she began to cry. I nodded at Fëaluin.

“So I shall go to Súlelenth first,” I said. “Will you be able to take me there, Isílriel?”

“Yes, Ada,” she said looking at me.

She led us out into the hall and through one winding corridor to Êlenuil and Súlelenth’s room.

I entered a room of solemn faces bowing to me as I entered. I looked to see Súlelenth lying in bed—pale, weak and damp from sweat; her head on her mother’s lap with her husband kneeling by her bedside holding her hand.

“Your Majesty,” she said softly. “I wish I could stand in your presence, but I am afraid birth has weakened me for now.”

“No need to worry,” I said. “There will be plenty of time for that. For now, you need your rest. Êlenuil, where are your children?”

He pointed to a corner where Êlúriel and Mîráre stood beside two elaborately carved cradles—each holding a sleeping newborn. I slowly went over to see them. I did not wish to wake them.

“This is Nenduîl,” Êlúriel whispered. I saw a sleeping baby, with soft golden hair.

“This is his sister Tárimë,” Mîráre said, showing me another newborn. She stirred in her sleep—opening her bright grey eyes that seemed to know who I was. Her hair nearly matched Êlúriel’s in color.

“They are beautiful,” I said. “Êlúriel, may I have a word with you?”

She nodded as she handed Nenduîl to Isílriel. As we turned to leave, everyone bowed. I motioned to Fëaluin to follow. Once in the hall, I felt a sense of comfort. The sight of Súlelenth had disturbed me greatly.

“Fëaluin, send word to Elranduil and Ardúin of my arrival,” I said.

He nodded and went his way. I turned to Eluriel.

“I expect you know of Súlelenth’s frailty,” I said.

“I do,” she said. “As does Arímë.”

“She could die,” I said.

“I know,” she said, looking down.

“Do her parents know about Êlenuil,” I asked.

“No,” she said, raising her head and looking at me. “I would tell them no such a thing now or ever.”

“I will not ask your reasons until this day is done,” I said. “When I do, do not hold a thing from me.”

“My reasons are the same as yours,” she said. “Though, I suspect you have had a change of heart whether to say anything about it to Arímë and Haldúir.”

“I cannot say,” I said, thinking. “I need time. For now, I will go to Elendôr and Aradúlin.”

She nodded and the guards opened the doors for her to return again. I continued down the hall for a time until I came to two more doors. As they opened, I heard the distinct sound of a crying infant. Inside, the mood was light and joyful. Aradúlin was sitting up in bed with Ëariâth and Ninyávë sitting on either side of her—Ardúin and Arlúin at the foot of her bed as Ardôr and Tarthon looked on with pride as Elranduil walked around whispering to a small baby with bright blue eyes and the shiniest golden hair I’d ever seen.

“I see you finally found someone to talk to, Elranduil,” I said.

Hardly looking up, he came to me showing off the newest addition to his family.

“His name is Aranduil,” he said. “Elendôr wanted to name him after us.”

“Oh, to condemn a child to such a fate,” Eldôr said from across the room. “I remain proud nonetheless.”

“Ada, put him down,” Orísil said. “He was like this when Êleneth was born, was he not, Nana?”

“Yes he was,” Ardúin said rising from the bed and taking Aranduil from her husband. “Time to feed him, and time for all of you to leave. That means you as well, Elranduil.”

As we began to leave, we were being replaced by more ladies of the court. Once in the hall the doors closed and we just stood looking at each other for a moment.

“I never liked when they did that,” Eldôr said.

“Not at all,” Orísil said.

“It is so cruel,” Elranduil said.

Ardôr and Tarthôn tried not to laugh.

“No use standing around. We have council,” Fëaluin said. “Shall we?”

“I wish to see my brother, if I may,” Elendôr said. “I know he grieves for Súlelenth’s malaise.”

“You may,” I said.

“I worry for Êlenuil,” Ardôr said watching his son leaving. “What will he do if she were to die?”

“Do not say such a thing,” Tarthôn said. “The thought pains even me.”

I did not say a word about it for the rest of the day. I kept my thoughts to myself until evening when I could speak to Êlúriel.

Needless to say, by evening, Êlúriel said nothing to me about Súlelenth. We went about our nightly routine in silence. This continued for days then months as Súlelenth started grow stronger. Soon she seemed to return to good health and found joy in watching her children grow.”–TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 10-30-17

Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.

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Chapter XXI (EXT): The Best of Sons (Part VIII/c) 

“Not long after Aragorn left us, life returned to form. Aradúlin had given birth to a daughter much to the chagrin of Aranduil; now old enough to voice his thoughts rather loudly much to my amusement. Though I worried about Súlelenth as her time grew near, Êlúriel reassured everyone that she was in good spirits and stronger than expected. I saw otherwise in her eyes but said  nothing to her as I went about my duties.

As I spoke with Fëaluin one day in the hall, I felt a tug on my robe. I looked down to see Aranduil—his eyes wide with curiosity.

“Yes,” I asked. “What is the matter, Aranduil?”

“Up,” he demanded. I looked at Fëaluin trying hard not to laugh. I bent down and picked Aranduil up.

“You are up,” I said. “Is there something the matter?”

“You cannot hear me down there,” he said. “You are taller than I am.”

Fëaluin started to laugh.

“Well, I can hear you quite well now,” I answered. “What is it you want to say?”

“Why are there so many girls,” he asked genuinely concerned. “There are too many girls.”

“I do not understand,” I said.

“Nana had a girl now uncle says there is another.”

“I do not understand, Aranduil,” I said. “Another girl?”

“Yes,” he said sternly. “Êlenuil said there is another one now.”

Fëaluin and I looked at each other—our faces racked with concern. Before we could say another word, Ëariâth arrived.

“There you are, Aranduil,” she said. “Why did you wonder off?”

He looked at me then looked at her defiantly.

“He is the king,” he said.

“Aranduil tells me there is another girl,” I said as Ëariâth took him from me. 

“Súlelenth has given birth, yes?”

“Yes,” she said smiling. “She is faring rather well.”

“You have seen her,” Fëaluin asked.

“Of course. Someone must keep watch over Nenduîl and Tárimë—never mind this one.”

“Aranduil,” he said frowning. “I am Aranduil.”

“Yes, I know,” Ëariâth answered, flustered.

“Êlúriel is with her,” I asked.

“I was,” a voice said from behind us. Êlúriel walked toward me smiling.

“If you will pardon us,” Ëariâth said making a quick courtesy and going on her way.

“I shall see about Eldôr,” Fealuin said as he bowed and took his leave.

“How is Súlelenth,” I asked. “You are smiling. Shall I think her well?”

“You may,” Êlúriel said. “She is resting now. You may see her when she rises.”

“And the child,” I asked. “Aranduil has expressed his discontent on the arrival of another girl.”

“Did he,” she said, laughing. “He will have to accept that his new cousin is a darling little girl as his sister Auríel.”

“What will I call Súlelenth’s child?”

“Eärluin,” she answered. “She looks very much like her mother.”

“And you and Ëariâth say she is well,” I asked once more.

“As well as one can after such an ordeal.”

“Well, I know better than to presume what the fairer of us goes through,” I began. “I have been married long enough to know not to ask either.”

Êlúriel smiled at me.

“You have learned something after all these years,” she said.

“I share my chambers with you,” I began. “It is far more pleasant when I do not have to win a disagreement."

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

It was nearing the end of Autumn—a few days short of Lasselanta—two years later that news would come from Rivendell. In my study, I sat alone reading when the doors opened. I did not see anyone enter, but I had my suspicions.

“Is that you, Eärluin,” I asked. 

A small child appeared peeking around my table—a head full of earthen curls and green eyes. She made her way over to me for me to take her and set her on my lap. Since she had begun to walk, she seemed wander into my study often. I continued reading as Eärluin leaned into my chest observe. Just then,  Fëaluin and Eldôr entered.

“A messenger just arrived from Rivendell,” Fëaluin said handing me a small note affixed with the seal of Rivendell. I opened it and began to read. When I was done, I put it down.

“Where is this messenger,” I asked. “Does he remain with us?”

“Yes,” Eldôr answered. “He awaits outside the doors.”

I nodded and Fëaluin waved to the guards. The doors opened and into the room came a familiar face.

“Your Majesty,” he said as he bowed to me. “It has been a long time.”

“Glorfindel,” I said. “It has been quite a long time.”

“I see you have been rather busy,” he said, referring to Eärluin sitting straight up on my lap and looking at Glorfindel with curiosity.

“You have word from Elrond,” I asked ignoring him. “It must be important if he sent it by you.”

“It is a matter of grave importance,” he said, his face falling. “You know of the awakening of evil once again in Mordor.”

“I do,” I answered. “Am I to guess that Aragorn told you of that hideous creature Gollum that escaped from my dungeons.”

“Not particularly,” he said. “But it is what that creature seeks that Sauron wants again he once lost.”

“I got nothing from Gollum of any worth,” I said. “If Elrond wants from me knowledge of what either of them seeks, your journey was for nought.”

“You read his letter,” he said.

“Yes.”

“Then you know what was asked of you,” he said.

“Yes.”

“Your answer is no,” he asked.

“My answer is not mine to give,” I said. “It will fall upon Legolas to decide.”

There was a painful silence that befell my study. The doors opened and Legolas entered with Mîráre.

“Ada, have you seen,” he began. “There she is.”

The two of them came to me and Mîráre took Eärluin from me. I stood up.

“Legolas, stay,” I said, motioning to Mîráre to leave. She could tell something was wrong and left quickly.

“What is it,” Legolas answered.

“Elrond has asked me to send someone to Rivendell,” I said. “He has asked me to give to a quest a prince of the realm. That would be you.”

Legolas seemed taken aback for a moment. He looked around the room curiously—looking at Glorfindel.

“Me,” he asked. “You would allow me to leave for such a quest?”

“I am afraid it is not up to me,” I said. “You are of age, Legolas. The decision must be yours to make.”

Legolas nodded, bowed and took his leave quickly.

“Rest, Glorfindel,” I said. “You will have your answer shortly. I know my son.”

He bowed and followed Fëaluin out the doors.

I sat down and turned my gaze to the thunderous falls beyond my balcony. “He wants to do this, Thranduil,” Eldôr said. “As he has always done before.”

“I know,” I said softly. “I will not keep him from it and neither will his mother. She spoke of his destiny long ago. It is his time now.”

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

The morning Legolas would leave, every memory I had rose to the surface and flowed through me with great emotion. On this day, Êlúriel and I would stand before the gates of Mirkwood to say farewell to our son.

The walk to the gates seemed far too long and too quick. When I stepped into the first light of day, I could see Legolas with Elenadar, Elenatar, Tarthôn and Aruilos. They would escort Legolas to Rivendell and Tarthôn would return on his brother’s horse. When Legolas saw me, he ran to me. I could see the little boy he had been behind the elven prince he had become. His life was his own to live beyond what I had given him.

“I am ready, Father. Mother,” he said.

“I am not, I am afraid,” I said. “But you are no longer a child.”

“I remember many things,” Legolas said. “But none so wonderful as being your son.”

I could not say anything. I was aged, yet youth had not left my face or my stature diminished. It would be the same for most of the elves of Arda. Looking into the face of my son, I could see many things. I saw the newborn in my arms and now I was sending a man into a world that had yet to find itself at peace.

“I have done many things in my life, Legolas,” I began. “There are things I long to remember and things I wish to forget. I was given many things in my life. Born to a king, I became one. I loved the most beautiful of creatures and she gave me my greatest treasure. You. I have not always been the best of fathers, but I was given the best of sons. I am the King of Mirkwood, but I am first and always your father. That is my crowning glory. Return to us, Legolas.”

He embraced me and smiled. I knew I was crying. I knew that behind me on this day stood an kingdom watching the heir to its throne leave for Rivendell. I did not care what anyone thought--I was once again losing a part of my heart to this world that had taken from me so much.

“I will return, Ada,” he said smiling. “Nothing will keep me from you.”

I was taken by those words as they were what I had said once a long time ago to Êlúriel the night before I left for war. It was a promise I kept.

Êlúriel embraced him as tears rolled down her face.

“I am proud of you, my little Greenleaf,” she said.

Isílriel was next to embrace her brother.

“What will I do without you,” she asked.

“If I know my sister, you will get on without me for awhile,” he said. “Look after our family, Isílriel. Especially Tarthôn. Do not tell him I said that.”

She laughed and as she released Legolas and we watched him walk away.

I smiled. Fëaluin looked at me curiously.

“Why do you look at me, Fëaluin,” I asked. “Do I amuse you?"

“You have become the king your father always knew you would be.” 

Legolas mounted his horse. Elenadan and Elenatar would escort him to Rivendell. I watched my son ride away until I saw him no more. As the dusk began to fall upon Mirkwood, I knew that Legolas would return and my kingdom and all of Arda would be changed forever.”––TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 12-08-17

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

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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.

[extendedtkwrtrilogyend]

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

Mirkwood became quiet again after the skirmish with the Easterlings. I knew it would not last and my council prepared for war. The guards at the southern border were multiplied and my army spent their days preparing to fight. Randúmîr recovered but rather than return to the southern borders, he was appointed to council with Aldáros. With uncertainty looming, many elves decided to begin the long journey to Mithlond.

Elenadar sent his wife Elarían away with their sons Sîrandír and Sîrandor. Her sister, Elenlúin decided to accompany her. Her husband Elenatar sent his sons Sílrandor and Sûlrandír. Fëaluin tried to convince Linurial to accompany them, but she refused to leave him.

At dawn, I watched a family tearfully say farewell once more. I thought back many centuries—now wishing Êlúriel had left with my mother and her father.

“I would never have left you,” I heard Êlúriel say to me.

“Must you always read my thoughts,” I asked smiling. “They are my last bastion of solitude.”

“Your thoughts are as loud as you are,” she said. “If not more so.”

“I know I could never persuade you to go to Eldamar,” I said. “You are too stubborn.”

“No more than any other wife,” she said. “But I am also the queen and I belong with my people.”

We looked at each other—a wave of commonality washed over us.

“You know of the attack by the Easterlings on our southern borders,” I asked.

“Yes,” she answered. “Fëaluin told me not long after Randúmîr was brought in.”

“What do you think of it,” I asked her.

“I know you have reinforced the southern borders as it is the most likely to be compromised,” she said. “That will not be enough, for the western borders' greatest weakness lies in the lack Beornings left to help defend it.”

She smiled and left me standing on the bridge in wonderment. As I prepared to go inside, Sildôr approached.

“Sildôr,” I said. “The elf I wanted to see.”

“Yes,” he asked.

“I think we should reinforce our western borders,” I said.

“It is done,” he answered. “I have made Arawë aware of it just now.”

“Oh,” I said surprised. “How did you know to do it?” 

“By order of Queen Êlúriel,” he said, smiling. He bowed and went on his way.

I smiled to myself as I went on about my duties. By the afternoon, I was in my study with Eldôr, Elranduil and Ardôr discussing what had transpired evening last.

“The presence of even a few Easterlings means that Dol Guldur may rise again,” Elranduil said. “Though they will not pass this way, evil rises and will come from many places.”

“We are not nearly as vulnerable to attack as others,” Eldôr said. “There is much trepidation about entering our borders. But whatever remains at Dol Guldur will only attack those beyond our borders. It is as much a curse as it is a blessing.”

“What remains at Dol Guldur is precisely the reason there is much trepidation,” Elranduil added. “You know as well as I that we are no more or less vulnerable from an attack than anyone outside our borders."

“We may be able keep some things at bay, but not others,” Ardôr said, nervously. “Father, why can you not demand Mother to leave? If she left, I know Ninyáre would follow.”

“I cannot persuade Ardúin to anything she does not wish to do, son,” Elranduil said. “Should she decide to leave for Mithlond, it will be when she is ready.”

“We need her,” I said. “There are few ladies left to attend to the wounded. That is the reason she stays. For now, they are far safer within these halls than they are traveling to Mithlond.”

“The numbers of elves willing to remain grows less and less,” Eldôr said. 

“Between here, Rivendell and Lothlórien, our numbers dwindle as war grows ever closer. They spoke of it when I returned from Mithlond after I saw Nimeithel and Valdúril on their way. Círdan spoke of many waiting upon his return from Dagorlad.”

“It is good to know they are safe,” I said softly, thinking of my mother. “I want them to remember things the way they were, not as they have become.”

“They lived through much worse, Thranduil,” he answered. “So have I. I have come to realize that evil is as much a part of the world as good.”

“There is far too much evil,” Ardôr said. “It is all around us.”

“It is here to be heard,” I said. “There is far more good in this world than evil, but it must speak louder to get our attention and we give it fully because it is easier to hear the howling of a warg than it is the fluttering of a butterfly. We should fear what we become from what frightens us. Fear is the life blood of evil—it cannot exist without it. We cannot give evil what it wants if we are to defeat it.”

“You have become wiser with age, Thranduil,” Fëaluin said as he entered.

“Pardon my intrusion, but you have more pressing issues to deal with just now.”

“What might that be,” I asked. “What could me more pressing than planning for war?”

“You are needed in audience,” he said.

“Who seeks an audience with me,” I asked, wondering whom had come into my kingdom.

“I am afraid it is you that is being called to have an audience,” he said smiling. 

“I was told that you must come straight away.”

“Who dares command me,” I said angrily.

“Nenduîl and Tárimë,” he said. “They are in their chambers waiting to speak to you.”

Immediately, I calmed down and light laughter filled the room. I looked at Ardôr.

“Do you know what this is about,” I asked him.

“No,” he answered, perplexed.

I left my study and went toward their chambers. As I approached, the guards opened the doors and I entered to find Nenduîl and Tárimë standing with Eärluin in the middle of the room together calmly.

“Nenduîl. Tárimë. Eärluin,” I asked. “Is something the matter?”

“Who are we,” Nenduîl asked softly. “Why are we different from others?”

“What do you mean,” I asked walking to them and kneeling before them. “Who told you that you were different?”

“Aranduil,” Tárimë answered. “He said that we were not like anyone else. So I hit him and sent him away.”

“Tárimë, that was not nice,” I said. “You should never hurt another—especially your cousin. I do not think he was teasing you.”

“Then it is true,” Nenduîl said. “We are different.”

“I do not want to be different,” Eärluin said frowning.

“No one likes us anymore,” Tárimë said sadly. “Do you like us?

“What are you saying,” I asked. Everyone loves you and so do I.” 

“Then why are we different,” Nenduîl asked.

“You are a boy,” Eärluin said. “I do not want to be a boy.”

“You will never become a boy, Eärluin,” I began. “And you are not different, Nenduîl. You are elves. Like Aranduil and Auríel and all the other elves in the kingdom. But you also have some of your mother inside you as well. A small part of her will always be with you.”

“We are mortal,” Tárimë said. “We will die like Nana.”

“No,” Nenduîl said angrily “I do not want to die!”

“What is die, Ada,” Eärluin asked.

“Ada,” Tárimë asked. “You are our Ada now?”  

“Ada and Nana,” Eärluin said defiantly pointing at me.

That took my breath from me. How does one explain immortality to ones so young. I was given the responsibility of their care but tried to keep their parents in their memory.

“You are,” Nenduîl said. “Ours is not here. He left us with you. Now you are Ada.”

“Yes,” Tárimë agreed. “May we call you Ada?”

“If you wish.”

“Good,” Nenduîl said. “Are we going to die?”

“I do not want to die,” Eärluin said. “What is die?"

“Die is when you sleep forever,” I said. “You can never wake up.”

“Like our other Nana,” Tárimë said. “She died.”

“What other Nana,” Eärluin asked. “Why is she died?”

“Your other Nana was ill,” I said as I struggled to explain things well beyond their understanding—even as they tried to understand. “She went to sleep, Eärluin. Forever. That is what mortals do when they fall ill or grow old.”

“Are we mortal,” Tárimë asked. “Is that why we are different?”

“You are not fully mortal, Tárimë,” I said. “The smallest part of you is mortal. The part that comes from your mother.”

“What is mortal,” Eärluin asked.

“It is what we are not,” Nenduîl said. “We will never die.”

“Elves can die as well,” I said. “By many ways, Nenduîl. But I will not let that happen to you or your sisters. You have my word.”

“That is good,” Tárimë said.

“Why do you say that,” I asked.

“Because if we were to die, we would never see you again, Ada.”

They embraced me. I felt happier than I had in a very long time. I was in love with Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin as I was with Tarthôn, Legolas and Isílriel.

“Now, go find Aranduil and apologize for hitting him,” I said to Tárimë. “I must go have a word with your Nana.”

“Tárimë hit him,” Eärluin laughing. “She hits like a girl.”

“Eärluin,” I said. “Go on with your brother and sister.”

She giggled as she ran out of the room with her siblings. I stood up and walked into the hall to find Êlúriel. I saw Isílriel speaking with Êleníel, daughter of Sildôr. She was as beautiful as Isílriel—with long golden hair and spritely blue eyes.

“Your Majesty,” Êleníel said bowing.

“Hello, Ada,” Isílriel said. “You must be looking for Nana.”

“Yes,” I said.

“Her Majesty is above us,” Êleníel said, motioning upward.

“Thank you, Êleníel,” I said. “Isílriel.”

I continued to the end of the hall and up the spiral stairwell leading to the rooms above the thrones. I noticed evening was upon us as I could see evening’s twilight revealing the  first stars of night. Several elves had begun the nightly ritual of lighting lanterns throughout the palaces. I glanced right to see Êlúriel standing by a window overlooking roaring falls starting to gleam in star and lantern light. She was wearing a long white gown with long delicate sleeves of sheer muslin; her long waves flowing behind her. She turned to see me and smiled as I approached.

“Is there anything you cannot do,” I asked her.

“How do you mean,” she asked.

“You raise our children, command our armies, keep our court and somehow manage to always look breathtakingly beautiful.”

She smiled at me then started to laugh.

“Oh, Thranduil,” she began. “You are quite possibly the worst liar in all of Arda.”

“I am not lying, Êlúriel,” I said. “I was paying a compliment to the queen.”

“To what do I owe such flattery,” she asked.

“Everything,” I said, caressing her face. “That is what you are to me.”

“And you are everything to me,” she whispered before I felt her lips on mine.  

We allowed ourselves to escape the agony and pain we had endured for months—knowing it would not be long before I saw battle again—one last time.”––TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 12-18-17

Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.

[extendedtkwrtrilogyend]

Chapter XXV: (EXT) Battle in the North (Pt I)

“At first light, Celeborn, Haldir, Rúmil and Orophin left for Lothlórien with the escorts chosen for them. Fëaluin stood with me as we watched them disappear beneath the forest brush before us.

“I grow tired of war, Fëaluin,” I said. “I do not think I can fight another battle.”

“You can and you will,” he said. “This war is unlike any we have seen or will see again. There is not a creature in this world that must bear arms against this evil.”

“It seems I lost my father and Melros not more than a day ago,” I said. “Now Legolas is out there somewhere doing what I must do once more. If I can fall in his place, then at least I will find some peace.”

“You will not fall,” he said. “You are not destined to fall.”

“How do you know this, Fëaluin,” I asked.

“My father told me that when you were born, Oropher said that his son would be the last great elven king in all of Arda.”

“Father said many things,” I answered. “Most of which while he had a bit too much miruvor to drink.”

“You are still here, are you not?”

“But for how long, Fëaluin,” I asked.

Soon Aranduil approached me and lifted his arms to me. I picked him up. He had just awoken and still in his nightclothes.

“Yes, Aranduil,” I asked. “What can I do for you?”

“Hold me, please,” he yawned.

Fëaluin laughed.

“Your great grandson seems to take after his other great grandfather.”

“Which one,” I asked. “Elranduil or Nimlos?”

“Must you ask, Thranduil,” he asked smiling.

We made our way into the palace just as Aradúlin came to me. I handed Aranduil to her.

“He seemed to have wandered away from the others this morning,” she said. 

“He is rather anxious this morning with all this talk of war.”

“How would he know of such things,” I asked.

“He wanders everywhere with Nenduîl and Tárimë. Where you go they will follow.”

This news disturbed me for I did not wish them to worry more than I knew they already had.

“Where are they now, Aradúlin,” I asked.

“I believe Linurial said they were in your chambers,” she answered.

“Yes,” Aranduil said. “They are in there. Nana, I am hungry.”

“Of course,” she said. She bowed and went her way with her son.

“I need to have a word with Nenduîl and Tárimë,” I said.

“Plenty, I would say,” Fëaluin said. He took his leave to my study and I went to my chambers.

I found Nenduîl and Tárimë resting in my bed—just waking for the morning. I sat beside Nenduîl on the bed as he slowly sat upright. “Nenduîl, have you been listening when you should not,” I asked as Tárimë sat up.

“Yes, Ada,” he said. “I want to know why you are leaving.”

“I am not leaving,” I said. “Not for some time. You should not listen on others without permission.”

“Why are you going away,” Tárimë asked. “Are you going away forever?”

“No, Tárimë,” I said. “I will return. But I must protect you, your sisters and everyone in Mirkwood from danger. You must not worry about such things.”

“Why not,” Nenduîl asked. “What if you die and never come back?”

“I do not know this nor do you,” I said. “You cannot worry about such things. I am here now.”

“You have to come back,” Nenduîl said. “Who will take care of us if you are gone?”

“I will take care of you,” I said. “I will return to you.”

“You promise you will, Ada,” Tárimë asked, crawling across the bed to embrace me.

“I once made a promise to return a long time ago and I kept it,” I said. “So I will make the same promise to you. I will return to you.”

“Then you will,” Nenduîl said. “You always keep your promises.”

“I try to keep them as I can,” I said.

As he embraced me, I thought as far as I could remember on all things I had promised to do. Each time I had kept my word and I wondered how I was able to do so. Then I realized how much I loved every one of them and would have done anything for them. Love had kept me from despair through many tragedies to keep my word. I knew I would again return home.

“You two must promise me something in return,” I said.

“Yes,” Tárimë asked.

“You must stop listening on whatever I say to others,” I said. “It is not for you to hear.”

“Then why do you say it so loud,” Nenduîl asked. “Sometimes we can hear you in the hall.”

I heard soft laugh come from no where.

“I will try better to speak softly if you promise to keep your ear from the door.”

“Yes, Ada,” they said sadly.

I heard the soft laughter once more and it was hard not to laugh in return.

“Now, it is time for you to eat,” I said. Go on. Aranduil is already in the dining hall I am sure.”

They quickly jumped off the bed and ran out the door.

“Êlúriel, you may come out now.”

She walked from behind her divider—a wide smile upon her face.

“I told you were loud,” she said as Elranduil peeked in. She kissed my cheek before walking out as he came in.

“I am not loud,” I shouted at her as her laughter reverberated through the hall.

“I hear Aranduil came to you this morning,” Elranduil said sitting beside me. 

“What did he say to you?”

“Hold me, please,” I answered.

“Oh,” he answered. “You realize he gets that from you. You were always doing that.”

“I beg your pardon,” I asked. “I never did such a thing.”

“You would always have to be held by Nimeithel every chance you could find—even in audience. But you eventually grew out of it once you were married.”

I looked at him crossly for a time before taking a pillow to his head.

“Well it is true,” he said, taking a pillow and hitting me back.

As we were partaking in a childish game, we hardly noticed Eldôr and Fëaluin standing inside the doorframe watching us.

“I was just having a word with Thranduil, Father,” Elranduil said hitting me one last time.

“I can see that, son,” Eldôr said. “Have you finished or would you care to continue your conversation?”

“No,” he said. “I have said all that was needed to be said.”

I hit him once more before putting down the pillow.

“Mirkwood’s greatest king,” Fëaluin said smiling.

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

I stared at my armor for what seemed a lifetime as I sat alone in the familiar workshop of the smiths. It was my third and my last suit I would wear into battle. I could see years of wars in its reflection. I remembered the fallen and the blood-soaked fields where they fell. 

All things tragic and all things beautiful seemed to happen the day before no matter how long it had been. When you remember them, they are more than memory—they are reminders of why we continue to live. They are the hopes we hold onto for better days before us. They keep us from dying even when that is all we want to do.

“How do you like it,” I heard Tatháron ask. “It should fit you well.”

“It resembles my father’s,” I answered. “The one he died in during the War of the Last Alliance.”

“It was commissioned by your father for you when you became king,” he said. “My father created it. After Oropher was killed he made me and my mother swear never to allow you to see it. But it was Eldôr that asked me to bring it forward for you after Celeborn left.”

“Why,” I asked.

“Your mother asked him to do so if there came another great battle,” he said.

“Well, should I die, I should fall as my father, then.”

“You will not fall,” he said. “You are a great warrior.”

“Great warriors fall, Tatháron,” I said. “I have seen it happen time and again.”

“True, but not you,” he said.

He went from the room and returned with a mail of mithril.

“No,” I said. “Give it to Tarthôn.”

“He already has his own,” he said smiling. “All the princes have their own. I wish for my grandson to return as well.”

“Of course,” I smiled. “Elendôr.”

“Tárwen held me to my word to watch over Ninyáre and her sons before she left with Mîráre for Aman. At least one of them has gone to them.”

I could not tell him that Êlenuil was in Mithlond so I smiled and nodded.

“I will not ask how you came by so much mithril,” I said. “Know that I am grateful for it.”

I rose to leave to return to my study.

“When you return from battle,” Tatháron began, “What will you do?”

“I will not leave this world,” I said. “Not until I know what has become of Legolas. Only then will I decide.”

I walked out of the foundry into the falling night. It was cool but the warmth of spring begun to emerge. It was night such as this long ago that after emerging from the caves, I met with Êlúriel before going to battle.

As I thought about her—wandering through the gardens in her flowing white dress her hair carrying the breeze gently beneath the night sky, I made my way toward my palace. It was quiet except for the creatures of the night lamenting the stars. From a distance I could see someone waiting at the gates.

When I grew closer, I realized it was Nimlos sitting upon the stone railing looking down into the river waters.

“Why are you out this evening,” I asked as I approached him. “I would think you would be with Sildúriel.”

“She is with Aruilos,” he said. “This will be his first battle. I cannot blame her concern. I worry as well. Perhaps even more. He is my only son.”

“I know how you must feel,” I said. “One son is out in the world and the other will join yours in battle.”

“My daughter would join him if it were not for Aranduil,” he said. “We both know how difficult Ëariâth can be.”

“She loves Tarthôn,” I said. “I could not ask for a better wife for my son.”

“I know you are thinking about more than your sons,” he said.

“Yes,” I said. “I am worried about Isílriel. She is as stubborn as her mother. That is not a secret easily kept.”

“True, Thranduil,”  he answered. “She is reminds me of Êlúriel’s mother Annariel. Born fighters, this clan.”

I laughed remembering my little Isilya eagerly watching her brothers practicing with their bows and always wanting to join them. Then my thoughts drifted to Êlúriel.

“Before we went to Dagorlad, I promised Êlúriel I would return to her,” I said. “I kept my word but I what if I cannot keep my word this time?”

“You always keep your word,” Nimlos said. “I have always liked that about you.” I smiled remembering when we first met.

“Besides,” I said. “If I did not keep my word Êlúriel would scold me for it and would never allow me to forget.”

Nimlos laughed.

“She inherited that from her mother, I am afraid. Poor Uncle. Whenever he had words with his wife, everyone could tell by the look on his face. I find it rather amusing to see that same look on Aramoth’s face after he has words with my sister.”

“It must run in your family,” I said laughing. “She may be young, but Tárimë is quite adept at it as well.”

We laughed together for a moment. I began to feel like myself for a moment. “Ada,” a voice said.

We turned to see Nenduîl running toward us. He leapt into my arms and embraced me.

“Why are you out this late,” I asked “Is your sister sleeping?”

“Yes, Ada,” he said. “I was looking for you.”

“You have found me, Nenduîl,” I said. “Shall I take you to bed?”

“Look, Thranduil,” Nimlos said.

I looked to see Arawë and Aldáros coming toward us frantically. Still winded, they bowed before me.

“Your Majesty,” Arawë began. “Randumîr sent word that a horde of glamhoth march this way and will arrive by morning.”

“What else did he say,” I asked.

“One horde attacked the borders of Lothlórien not long after Lord Celeborn returned,” Aldáros said. Another attack they will endure tomorrow.”

Nimlos and I looked at one another concerned.

“Follow Nimlos into the palace,” I commanded. “I must do something first.

Nimlos, call after Fëaluin and will come to you in my study.”

They bowed and all of them made their way into the palace.

“Will you fight tomorrow, Ada,” Nenduîl asked.

“Yes, Nenduîl,” I said carrying him toward the main gates. “I will fight tomorrow.”

“Will you win,” he asked as I entered the palace and walked toward his chambers.

“Yes,” I said. “I would not worry but you and your sister must stay inside the palace. Give me your word.”

He nodded as his chamber doors were opened and I tucked him into bed. I looked upon him for a moment then kissed his forehead. 

“Sleep,” I said. “I will see you when I return.”

He nodded and drifted off. I went to Tárimë and kissed her as she slept. As I was leaving, I heard a voice.

“I will be here when you come back,” Tárimë whispered. “I promise, Ada.” I turned and smiled then quickly left to prepare for battle. On my way down the hall, I was met by Êlúriel.

“Go on, my love,” she said softly. “I will see you upon your return.”  

I kissed her.

“Do not leave the palace,” I commanded. “Give me your word.”

“I will remain in the palace,” she said, smiling. “I give my word.”

I kissed her again and quickly made my way down the hall.”––TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 12-20-17

Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.

[extendedtkwrtrilogyend]

Chapter XXI (EXT): The Best of Sons (Pt. VII/a)

“Morning crept upon the kingdom slowly. In the dark blue of twilight, I felt Êlúriel turn beneath the covers. Facing me, she smiled slightly as she moved closer to me and slipping into my arms. Her delicate skin was cool to the touch, sending a slight chill through me. We kissed as we found a moment to ourselves before the events of the day.

“Are you prepared for the day,” she asked. Her skin was warmer and flushed with color as I noticed the day had finally risen and the sun chased away the last remnants of night.

“I am now,” I said, kissing her forehead. “What of you?”

“I look forward to it, she answered. “I remember when we were wed—as if it were yesterday. It was the second happiest day of my life.”

“What was the first,” I asked curiously.

“The first was the day I knew I would become your wife,” she said smiling. “The day we first met.”

“I do not have a happiest day, I am afraid,” I said coyly.

“Why not,” Êlúriel asked frowning.

“Because every day with you is the happiest day of my life.”

We kissed again until the familiar knock was heard at our doors.

“Would you mind terribly if I put a lock on our doors,” I asked.

Êlúriel laughed as she rose from our bed and went to cover herself.

“Enter, Fëaluin,” she said.

Through the doors came Fëaluin with several servants—several bringing breakfast. I remained where I was as the activity stole from me a feeling of being ordinary. 

“Thranduil,” he began. “Fancy finding you still in bed when you should be attending to your duties.”

“How is that possible,” I said. “I cannot attend to anything without you. The day would no longer be sacrosanct without you reminding me to attend to my royal duties every morning. Perish the thought.”

“No time for melodrama, Thranduil,” he said ignoring me and bowing to Êlúriel as he approached her. “Your Majesty, how was your night? I hope it was pleasant.”

“It was, thank you,” Êlúriel answered. “My ladies await me?”

“Yes,” Fëaluin said. “They await just outside.” They turned their gaze toward me; I knew what it meant.

“Why is it on such occasions it is me that must leave my own chambers,” I asked, motioning for the servants to bring my robe. “I am the king of this realm if you have not noticed.”

“We have noticed,” Fëaluin said. “How can we not? You have reminded us of it every morning for nearly three thousand years.”

When I was covered, I went to Êlúriel and kissed her.

“It is only for this day,” she whispered.

“Please, my dear,” I whispered. “Do not tease me.”

I turned and proceeded to follow Fëaluin and two servants out the door and into the hall. It was filled with ladies going into my chambers.

“Good day, Ada,” I heard Isílriel say.

I turned to see her walking toward me—hardly recognizable from the child she had been. She was as beautiful as her mother and in every way a lady. She embraced me and kissed my cheek.

“How is my daughter,” I asked.

“Quite well,” she answered. “Nana has sent you away, I see. Elranduil awaits you in his chambers.”

“For once I would like to have my cousin inconvenienced,” I said.

“But your chambers are far larger, Ada,” she said. “Cousin told me it was tradition.”

“Yes, of course, Darling,” I answered. “Carry on. I shall see you soon.”

She smiled and followed the last of the ladies into my chambers as Fëaluin and I began to go our way.

“Remind me to have a word with Elranduil about this ‘tradition’, Fëaluin,” I said. He laughed as we made our way toward Elranduil and Ardúin’s chambers.

Upon entering the room, everyone stood and bowed. Every one that should be in attendance were—including Legolas dressed as his brother and cousins. I could see that like his sister, he was well beyond childhood. Looking around, there were no remnants of my youth left. I was looking at the world through the eyes of my father—as a king that had ruled for centuries.

I noticed Êlenuil and Elendôr looking fearful at my arrival. It meant that the time had come to leave youth behind. I acknowledged them and led my dressers toward the dressing corner shielded by a screen. I heard room empty as my dressers began their work.

“I know you are still here, Elranduil,” I said.

“Of course,” he said. “As always.”

“It would seem my daughter thinks it is tradition to have the king ceremoniously pushed from the royal bed chamber on such an occasion.”

“I know nothing of such a thing,” he said. I could tell he was laughing and I could here others laughing along with him. “The princess must have heard it from someone else.”

“Do you mean it is not true as you said,” I heard Legolas ask. The room erupted in laughter as I came round to see all the princes in the room.

“You know nothing of such a thing,” I repeated to Elranduil as I straightened the sleeves of my robe while a servant followed me brushing my hair. “I find that hard to believe.”

“I might have mentioned it in passing,” he said.

“Elranduil, please,” Eldôr said. “Already a grandfather, still acting as a child. Send for the others to return. Make yourself useful.”

Elranduil sneered and went into the hall as Eldôr turned to me.

“You never fail to remind me of your father,” he said. “He would be proud of you.”

“Thank you, Uncle,” I said softly. “I wish he were here. Mother as well.”

“They would both be proud,” he said. “As I am.”

When the room was full again, I noticed Haldúir had joined us. He was dressed as a member of the household he would soon be apart. Unlike before, he seemed at home with us. I knew Fëaluin had much to do with that as he and Eldôr had their time with him. I walked to him and he bowed.

“Your Majesty,” he said.

“Haldúir,” I said. “It is good to see you again. The attire of the elves suits you rather well.”

“Thank you,” he said. “You must see Arímë. I have not seen her more beautiful nor more joyous. Seeing her family again has lifted her spirits.”

“You are family now as well,” I said. “I believe our worlds are better for it.”

“It is time,” Fëaluin announced. “Everyone to their positions.”

Everyone began moving around quickly. I was left with Tarthôn, Ardôr and Haldúir alongside Eldôr and Fëaluin. We were to lead the procession to the ceremony with our wives. When the halls fell quiet, we went into the hall. There waiting for us were Êlúriel, Ëariâth, Ninyáre and Arímë. They were all beautiful—dressed in the robes of the season--an elegant symphony of rich gold, orange and reds the leaves of autumn. I went to Êlúriel and took her hand.

“Shall we go, Your Majesty,” I asked her. 

She nodded and we made our way through the empty halls of the palace and outside toward the marital canopy where the rest of the court waited.”--TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 10-9-17

Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.

[extendedtkwrtrilogyend]

Chapter XXVII (EXT): Mirkwood to Eryn Lasgalen/Legolas’ Return

“I emerged from my tent at dawn to the sound I had not heard for centuries it seemed—birds chirping melodiously. Nearby, there were woodland creatures roaming beneath the forest tress softly swaying in unison as a gentle breeze blew through their branches. The sky began to lighten as the sun rose; it was a vibrant blue I could almost touch.

Evil was gone. I could not help but remember the years that had come before—so many years of darkness intermingled with moments of joy swirling around times of anguish. I had come out of the shadows to see the dawn of the new age father had said I would.

“Thranduil, son of Oropher,” I heard a voice say beside me. It was Galathil.

“Galathil, son of Galadhon,” I answered. “So this is the day our fathers wished to see.”

“Yes,” he said. “And yet, it comes as every day before it—in a whisper too quiet for us to hear. Perhaps that is how time wishes it to be. To allow us to appreciate all that is given and all that is lost.”

“I have spent much of my life fighting time as much as evil,” I said. “I have never known what it would like not to fight something.”

“I am sure you will not miss it,” he said. “You will not forget it, but you will not miss it.”

“I know one day, I will forget,” Celeborn said as he walked toward us with Ëarmîr. “I look forward to that day with great expectation. For now, I look forward to our return to your palace, Thranduil. Galadriel is waiting.”

“I must apologize to you, Celeborn,” I said as I saw Eldôr approaching with Elranduil. “I did not prepare her for the horrors of my halls.”

“What horrors,” Celeborn asked concerned.

“Five little elven children, I am afraid,” Elranduil said smiling. “They are rather precocious. They seemed to have inherited such behavior from me, right dear cousin?”

I gave him weak smile as he laughed with the others.

“I am sure they cannot be anywhere near the trouble of Elladan and Elrohir,” Celeborn said laughing. “I am sure Galadriel is fine, though I cannot promise the same for the children.”

As we laughed together I noticed Êlenuil with his brother Elendôr. He had a grey horse by its reins that was saddled and prepared for a long journey.

“If you excuse me,” I said.

I walked toward them; my gait heavy as my heart. They bowed to me as I came before them.

“So you are leaving, Êlenuil,” I said. “So soon after battle?”

“I must,” he said quietly, looking at the ground. “It is for the best.”

“You do remember what I asked of you?”

“Yes, Thranduil,” he answered as he looked at me. “You have my word.”

“I will send your children to you when the time comes,” I said. “I trust you will be there to receive them.”

“I will wait for them,” he said. “You have my word.”

I felt sorry for Êlenuil for his pain was palpable. His sorrow reminded me of myself when I lost Êlúriel. I wondered if I had been too hard on him.

“Elendôr, go see to your father,” I said. “I would like a moment with your brother.”

“Yes, Thranduil,” he said bowing. We watched him walk away toward camp. I could see things were being prepared for the journey back to the palace.

“Have I been too harsh with you, Êlenuil,” I asked. “If I have, forgive me.”

“You have been nothing more than noble,” he said. “As expected a King.”

“You are my kin,” I said. “You are a prince of the realm. You returned to fight for your people. I do not know anything more noble than that.”

“Thank you,” he said smiling beneath his golden hair.

“I remember when I almost lost my wife,” I began, my mind reliving the moment again as it had for centuries. “I would be remiss if I did not tell you how it was for me.”

“There is no need for you to remember such pain,” he said.

“I have never forgotten,” I said. “I have lived every day with that pain. There is not a moment I do not think how I almost lost her. I cannot fathom what it must feel like to lose such a great love as you have. Forgive me.”

I could tell by Êlenuil’s expression that my face had fallen grave. I felt the tears falling down my cheek as they had the day I held Êlúriel’s body in my arms—thinking I had lost her.

“I do not deserve her,” I said. “She is too good for me, but she loves me as if I were. If she had died that day, I know she would not have wanted me to leave our children without a father nor a kingdom without a king. I know how you long for Súlelenth, Êlenuil.”

Êlenuil was looking at me, his face serene. He had a smile on his face—one I had not seen since his youth.

“I know,” he said. “That is why I left Nenduîl and Tárimë with you.”

“What are you saying,” I asked trying to compose myself rather poorly. “I do not understand.”

“When they were born, grandfather remarked how much they reminded him of you and the Queen,” he said. “Her mother would tell her stories when she was a child about your love. When she died, I could not look at my children not because I did not love them. It was not because I lost their mother, though I loved her with all my heart. I knew she was mortal and would have died as mortals will. I could not look at them because they were so close and reminded me of you and Queen Êlúriel.”

I had regain some composure as I found myself wanting to understand what Êlenuil was trying to say.

“I am afraid you have lost me,” I said.

“I know they bring you much joy,” he said nearly laughing. “No matter how hard you try to show otherwise. You are the worst liar in all of Arda, you realize.”

“I am not,” I said defiantly.

“They were born out of love aptly named for a love everlasting.”

I was at a loss for words or thoughts.

“And Eärluin,” I asked. “She should know who her father is.”

"She reminds me too much of Súlelenth,” he said. “They adore you both. “I could not bare to lose their love.”

“You are their father,” I said. “How could they not love you?”

“I know they love me,” he said. “I love them very much. But they are a comfort to you. As much a gift to you as they were to me. I think it was for you they were born. They know their purpose and I know mine,” Êlenuil said smiling. “I will keep my word to you.”

We looked at each other—seemingly knowing what the other felt. He embraced me and I could not help but return it.

“Thank you for the mithril,” he whispered, releasing me from his embrace. He mounted his horse and rode toward the west as he had done once before. I watched him until I could not see him.

“Thranduil,” I heard someone say. I looked to see Elranduil standing next to me. “Something the matter?”

“No,” I said. “I was just seeing Êlenuil on his way.”

“We await you to lead us home,” he said. “Unless there is a reason you wish us to remain here and watch you stare at trees.”

I grinned at him—nearly laughing at myself. I nodded and we headed toward camp. Seeing the elves of Mirkwood and Lothlórien together brought back memories of the last time we were together. This time, we were not riding off to war; we were riding home victorious.

I mounted my horse and looked around to see elven soldiers proudly awaiting my command.  At my side waited Celeborn smiling serenely.

“Shall we,” he asked.

I smiled in return, motioned to move forward. As our procession began it’s slow move home, I looked back at the smoldering ruins of what was once Dol Guldur. Though it would be a long time before it would once again resemble Amon Lanc, the darkness was gone from my kingdom forever.

For a time, we traveled in silence—each of us savoring the victory filled the air and fell over the whole of Arda. As we made our way closer to the palace, a faint sound of cheers was heard.

“Word still travels quickly among our people,” Celeborn remarked.

“It is just as well,” I said. “We return victorious as I told Galadriel we would.”

“Seems Galadriel is not the only one with the gift of foresight,” he said.

“Not so much foreseen as promised, Celeborn.”

As we came to the path leading to the bridge, my kingdom welcomed us with glorious fanfare. Under a shower of flower petals. I could see my court waiting for us joyfully on the bridge. Before them, Galadriel stood with Isilriel alongside Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin. As we stopped, I dismounted as they came running to me.

“Ada,” they squealed as I knelt down to embrace them.

“You are home,” Tárimë said.

“Yes, I am,” I answered, as I noticed they were dressed in their finest court attire. “And how did you manage to greet me dressed so elegantly?”

“Lady Galadriel,” Nenduîl said pouting. “She told us it would please you.”

“It is itchy, Ada,” Eärluin said, scratching her neck.

“I am well pleased,” I said as I saw Galadriel approaching as Celeborn and the rest of the princes began to great their loved ones. I stood up and bowed to her.

“You must be weary,” she said embracing Celeborn. “Let our warriors take their rest before we return home, if they may, Thranduil.”

“Of course,” I said. “Fëaluin, prepare the court for celebration if you will.”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” he said smiling, his wife Linurial in his arms. “It would be my pleasure.”

As everyone made their way into the palace, I remained behind with Nenduîl and Tárimë.

“Tell me, children,” I began. “Did you mind yourselves while I was away?”

“I did,” Tárimë said. “I cannot say the same for my brother.”

“I was well-behaved,” Nenduîl said defensively. “Much more than my sister.”

“If I were to ask Galadriel, what would she say to me?”

There was a moment of silence and I could not help myself but to laugh.

“I was very good,” Eärluin said. “Nana said so.”

“Where is Nana,” I asked, worried.

“She is waiting for you inside,” Tárimë said. “She said she wanted to see you alone.”

Curious, I entered the palace behind them. I was happy to home and wanted to see Êlúriel.

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

Inside, the children went their way as I made my way into my study where waited the many faces of my lifetime. To thunderous applause I was received. I approached Celeborn as he stood beside Galathil, Eärmîr, Haldir, Rúmil and Orophin. We stood for a moment looking at one another as the praise subsided. It was then that we embraced one another. Cheers returned again—the sound rising louder than the falls behind us.

“Let no more time fall between us now that darkness has fallen from the rest of our days,” I said. “It is a day I never thought I would see but for my father I am his eyes from the grave. He would be proud.”

“Yes, he would, Thranduil,” Celeborn said. “Tonight we celebrate and tomorrow you will face the world as King of Eryn Lasgalen.”

“What,” I said taken aback. “What are you saying?”

Celeborn smiled as Galathil patted me on the shoulder.

“You were never one to take anything without bewilderment,” Galathil said. “Or so I have been told.”

“Yes, I am afraid my cousin is often taken aback,” I heard Elranduil say as he approached. “Good news or bad, it does take him a moment to find the words to say anything.”

“Well, then. He has the rest of the evening to find his words,” Celeborn said. “In the meantime, I believe your court is being prepared for celebration and I shall take my leave to do likewise.”

I never heard the study empty nor had I realized I had regained my kingdom. It was a moment I would never forget—after so long under the curse of Sauron, I had come full circle to see my kingdom through sorrow and pain to joy and peace.

For as long as there is a kingdom to rule, you will. My father’s words rang true—as I heard them spoken once more from my heart.

“Thranduil,” I heard my name called. I turned to see Nimlos.

“Yes,” I asked. “What is it?”

“Time to get ready for the celebration,” he said. “You are not going like that, are you?”

I looked down at myself. I was still in my armor—stained with dirt and the dried blood of orcs.

“I could use a change of wardrobe,” I answered. “And a bath."

I went to my bath and noticed I was alone. I looked forward to having a moment to myself. After my armor was removed, my dressers left to prepare my wardrobe for the evening. Once in the bath, I closed my eyes, took a deep breath and felt myself release all the tension of the day. Though exhausted, I wondered where Êlúriel was as I had yet to see her.

“You never cease to amaze me,” I heard a voice say to me.

“Elranduil,” I answered. “Who allowed you in here?”

“Amusing, Thranduil,” he answered. I opened one eye to see him sitting nearby in his robe and fresh from his bath. “I wanted to see to your well-being.”

“What do you want,” I asked.

“Not a thing,” he answered. “Though father wanted to know how you were. You seemed beyond his reach for a moment What is on your mind?”

“I am in need of rest is all,” I answered as I closed my eye. “Nothing more. Uncle mustn’t worry himself although I am quite sure it is you that would like to know more.”

“No,” he said. “Though your son wishes to speak with you before tonight’s celebration.”

I opened my eyes and sat up.

“Tarthôn,” I asked. “Is something the matter?”

“Not at all,” Elranduil answered. “He is quite well. There is no hurry. He is with Ëariâth just now. He has something he wishes to tell you. He refuses to tell anyone but you.”

“I have raised him well, then,” I said reclining once more. “He knows you can never keep a secret.”

“I can so,” he said rising. “I kept many of your secrets. Is it my fault Ardúin could get them from me? She can be quite persuasive.”

“She is not persuasive, Elranduil. You are afraid of her.”

“I am not,” he began as a servant entered and bowed.

“Yes,” I asked.

“I was sent by Her Highness, Princess Ardúin,” he said quietly. “She wishes for His Highness Prince Elranduil to join her immediately.”

“Tell her I shall be with her in a moment,” Elranduil said.

“Now, Elranduil,” a voice came from across the room. It was Ardúin. I could not help but laugh.

“If you will excuse me,” Elranduil said. “My wife requires my presence.”

He hurried away with the servant. I took another moment to enjoy my solitude—closing my eyes to rest.

“You kept your word,” a voice said.

It was Êlúriel. I opened my eyes just as she had slipped into the water and glided over to me and embracing me.

“So I have,” I said, holding her. We did not say another word as we found ourselves lost in a kiss and locked in an embrace for what seemed a magical eternity. When she was done with me, she stepped out of the bath, wrapped herself her robe and rang for the servants.

“Do not be late, Thranduil,” she said, smiling.

Soon the servants arrived. I stepped out of my bath and was dried and dressed in a robe and I made my way to my room. The guards opened my door and I entered. A moment later, my dressers entered and began to prepare me for the night. I was placed in the colors of spring—rich greens with silver embroidered leaves on my coat. A knock came to my door.

“Enter,” I said as one servant began combing my hair. It was Tarthôn with Aranduil close behind.

“How’s Nana,” he asked grinning.

“You have a shadow with you, son,” I said, smiling thinking about Êlúriel.

Tarthôn turned and picked up his grandson.

“Well what do you know,” he said. “How did you come upon me, Aranduil?”

“I followed you,” he said. “I wanted to come.”

“I think he wanted to see you as much as I did,” Tarthôn said. “You look fine this evening, Ada.”

“Am I to assume Êlúriel is waiting for us?”

“She does,” he answered.

“Elranduil said you wished to tell me something.”

“Yes,” he began. “There is word from Gondor.”

“Gondor,” I asked. “What of it?”

“Legolas has survived the war,” he said. “He is there with Aragorn. I was told of it before we left Dol Guldur. It would appear Legolas sent a messenger ahead of the news.”

I turned slowly toward Tarthôn—who was straightening Aranduil’s little buttons on his robe. When he looked up, his face was smiling as brightly as my own must have been.

“This is wonderful news,” I said. “Wonderful. I have both of my sons and I could not ask for more.”

“Me,” Aranduil said angrily. “I am here too.”

“Yes,” I said. “You are here as well, Aranduil. How could I have forgotten?”

In overwhelming joy, I embraced them both. I knew I would see my sons together again some day soon.

“Let us celebrate, Ada,” Tarthôn said as he put Aranduil down. “The kingdom awaits.”

“Very well,” I said.

We left my room and entered the hall. As we approached the court room, festive spring colors dressed everything from pillar to post. Green, indigo, red, yellow and white created an aura of the forest floor. Êlúriel stood at her throne, her gown the color of mine, her crown upon her head as a halo. My court once engaged fell quiet as I took my place beside her.

“Tonight we celebrate,” I began “For the darkness that fell upon our kingdom is no more. It is a new day not only for the elves, but for all that live in every corner of this world. Peace has finally returned to the Woodland Realm.”

A roar of cheers filled the room and resounding into every crevice of the halls with a sound that for the first time was greater than the force of the waterfalls’ ever flowing. I walked down from my throne and made my way to the room above the festivities. Upon reaching the window seat, I remembered the night of my wedding—sitting with Êlúriel in a quiet moment.

I continued further up the stairs to the room where I spoke with my father many times before he died in the War of the Last Alliance. I walked over to the window and looked out over Forest River quietly flowing into Long Lake. The trees were turning black with the setting of the sun but I could see the stars beginning to peek through the eastern sky one by one.

“Ada,” I heard a child say. It was Nenduîl. I turned to see him and Tárimë standing behind me. I motioned to them to come. I noticed for the first time how much they had grown as they approached me.

“It is a beautiful night,” Tárimë said looking over the balcony. “Can we go outside now?”

“In the morning,” I said. “After the ceremony.”

“What ceremony,” Nenduîl asked looking terrified. “Do I have to dress up again?”

“Nenduîl, you are a Prince of the realm. It is proper protocol.”

“I am not fond of proper protocol,” he said leaning against me. “It is very uncomfortable.”

“I am a Princess,” Tárimë said. “I like being a Princess.”

“That is because you are a girl,” her brother said sticking his tongue out.

“Children, behave yourselves,” I said trying not to laugh. I remembered how much I did not like proper palace protocol at their age. “It will not be too long and afterward you are free to play with the other children.

“Outside,” Nenduîl asked looking up at me—eyes wide with excitement.

“Yes, outside.”

“Will you come with us,” Tárimë asked.

“I have some things to do. I am the King you realize.”

The both stood beside one another giving me their best sad and down trodden look in a rather convincing attempt at forcing my hand.

“Very well, perhaps I will join you after I am done with my duties,” I said.

Smiling they embraced me and I in return.

“We love you, Ada,” they said.

“I love you both very much,” I said, thinking about the last time I saw their father at Dol Guldur. I wondered should I tell them about Êlenuil.

“Nenduîl. Tárimë,” I heard Elranduil say. “Ardúin is looking for you. I need a word with Thranduil.”

They ran off into the darkness that had begun to surround the forest. I leaned agains the balcony once more as Elranduil joined me.

“How is the celebration,” I asked. “Am I needed?”

“It is fine, Thranduil,” he said. “You are noticeably missing but you are the king. You do what you like.”

“True,” I answered. “Why are you here?”

“I am here because I can do what I like,” he said.

“We like far too many of the same things, cousin.”

“I am afraid that runs in the family,” he said. “It would seem so does wandering away to think about all that has come to pass.”

“We have seen many things,” I began. “Some things I am glad I will never see again. There are a few things I want to see again."

“I know,” he said softly.

“Father,” I said. “I wish he were here to see this day. Come, Elranduil. Let us return to the celebration. I believe the king should see to his court.”

We began walking toward the stairs where the sound of merrymaking filled the air. I hesitated for a moment.

“If you do not wish to return, your subjects will understand,” Elranduil said.

“I wish to join them,” I said. “I realized how long it has been since we had something to celebrate. It has been too long. Far too long.”

We began our descent down to the court room when I was met by Galathil.

“Thinking again,” he asked. Elranduil nodded and went on his way.

“Of course, Galathil,” I answered. “I am the son of Oropher. Thinking is an inherited trait.”

“Father always said as much. You realize Ëarmîr reminds me of Oropher every day. His mother would be proud. I wish our sister could be here to see how he has grown.”

“War has taken many over the centuries that never should have been lost—whether by death or by choice,” I said quietly.

I gave him a pat on the back and walked through the court of bowing courtiers on my way out the front gates and across the bridge.

It was the clearest of nights—it seemed every star in the heavens were shining. I made my way to the tomb of Oropher.

“I miss you, Ada,” I said feeling tear welling in my eyes. “I wish you could be here to see peace in our kingdom. I wish you could have known my son Legolas. He fought gallantly to save the world.”

I could not stop crying. Emotion took me from my posture as I fell to the ground. Three thousand years of pain flowed from me like a waterfall. I do not remember for how long I cried but when I stopped there was no sound left but those of nature. I looked up and was startled by a vision of my mother.

Dressed in a white gown flowing with her hair behind her.

“Thranduil, my son,” she said. “Do not weep for you brought peace to our kingdom and to our people.”

“Nana,” I said standing. “Is that you?”

She reached out and embraced me and I felt her close to me as I had in my youth.

“My little Isilya,” she said. I knew it was Nimeithel. “You have changed so much. I can see it in your eyes. But it is for the best. Soon you must decide what to do and it will be the hardest choice you will ever make.”

“What choice,” I asked. “What else could there be? The war is over. There is peace.”

“I cannot say but you will know when the time comes. I miss you, Thranduil. Since I left you. But I knew then as now that I will see you again. I must go now. I needed to see you once more before you left.”

“Where would I go,” I asked as she kissed my cheek and moved away further and further.” Where would I go? Mother? Nana?”

“What vexes you, Thranduil,” a voice said. I turned to see Eldôr.

“Did you see my mother,” I asked staring into the pitch of night. “She was here. Mother was here.”

“Oh course she was, Thranduil,” he said almost mockingly. “Nimeithel tends to do such things.”

“You do not believe me,” I said defiantly.

“She told you that you would see her again,” he said gently. “And you will. But now you need to rest before the dawn. We have a ceremony to attend.”

As we began toward the palace, I couldn’t help but look back. Nimeithel was gone. I could not help but wonder what she meant about the choice I would have to make. That choice would come to me sooner than I would have wanted.

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

The day was more beautiful than I could remember—crisp and clear. I was dressed in my finest spring regalia to go before my people. I stood in the hall quietly awaiting my children. Soon, Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin came before me. Nenduîl looked uncomfortable in his little robes which were as mine and I tried not to laugh.

“Shall we go,” I asked.

“Not yet,” Êlúriel said as she stepped out of our room. She was breathtaking—more heavenly than earthly as she approached us. “Now, we can go.”

They nodded and we made our way down the hall toward the front gate. Before we were to exit, we awaited the rest of the family. Soon, Isílriel, Eldôr, Elranduil, Ardôr, Ninyáre, Tarthôn, Ëariâth, Orisil, Arlúin, Elendôr, Aradúlin, Tatháron, Aranduil, Auríel, Êleneth, Aramoth, Nenloth, Nimlos, Sildúriel, Aruilos, Nimlúin, Aradûial, Fëaluin and Linurial. When all were assembled, the doors were opened and we walked out into the sun.

Before us stood every elf in the kingdom standing side by side with elven warriors of Lothlórien. On the bridge awaited Celeborn, Galadriel, Galathil, Ëarmîr, Isílion, Tárion, Haldir, Rúmil and Orophin. As I took my place beside Celeborn and Galathil, I nodded—a smile across my face I felt for what seemed an eternity.

“Elves of Mirkwood,” Celeborn began. “The curse of Sauron that kept your people in shadow is no more. Your kin in the West need not fear any longer the darkness their kin in the East have endured alone. The name of your king shall once again be on the lips of all creatures in Arda as it was always meant to be. Forevermore shall he be known as King Thranduil of Eryn Lasgalen.”

There rose from the elves cheers that could be heard for miles around. I turned to Celeborn as he smiled at me. I had no words to express the happiness I felt.

“You need not say a word, Thranduil,” he said. “It was my pleasure. We never should have let you suffer such evil alone. You are one of us—our kin. Forgive me such indignity.”

“There is nothing you have done that needs forgiving,” I said. “It was not your doing that our kingdom fell to Sauron. I know now you did what you felt you had to do. You are here now. That is all that matters.”

“Until tomorrow,” he said. “I am sure Elrond is waiting for us to return to prepare for a wedding.”

“Arwen and Aragorn,” I said.

“Galadriel can hardly contain herself,” he mused. “I find it refreshing she has lent her wisdom elsewhere rather than on me.”

“Seems Nenduîl would agree with you.”

“She told me about him,” he added. “A rather precocious stripling you have there. Galadriel needs more rest than we did coming from battle, I dare say.”

“I am afraid he gets it from my cousin, Elranduil,” I said laughing. “He was much like Nenduîl in his youth.”

“I remember you having an rather inquisitive penchant for trouble,” he said. “As it were, Elranduil told me as much. He said you still have an inkling of it.”

“Elranduil says many things,” I said glancing at him as he spoke with Galathil. “Most of which are exaggeration.”

He laughed and went to Galadriel as Aranduil, Nenduîl and Tárimë ran by followed by several other elven children nearly knocking over Ëarmîr.

“Must I stay, Uncle,” I heard him ask Galathil.

“I beg your pardon,” I asked walking over to them. “What is this about?”

“Ëarmîr will remain with you when we leave,” Galathil said. “He knows his place. Not a word until the day comes.”

“I do not understand,” I began before Elranduil interrupted.

“Enough for now,” he said. “We have things to attend to. If we may, Galathil?”

He nodded and walked away with Ëarmîr.

“Why is Ëarmîr staying with us,” I asked again. “Which of my council is he replacing?”

“No one is leaving,” he said escorting me into the palace. “He is staying with us for a brief time. I would not worry yourself about it just now. You have to decide what to do with the extended borders of Eryn Lasgalen.”

I stopped short of the main gates as the guards opened the door.

“I could have sworn I am the King of the realm,” I said angrily. “Yet, somehow I have no knowledge of what goes on within it. I demand that you tell me what is going on this instant.”

“I cannot tell you for it is not for me to tell,” he said. “Just know it is all for the best. Now, Fëaluin awaits us in your study.”

We continued on into the palace and into the study. I was prepared to protest when I stopped in my tracks. In my presence was Ardôr talking to his son Elendôr as Fëaluin spoke with Eldôr. They turned and bowed to me.

“You wished a word, Fëaluin,” I asked. “Perhaps you can tell me what no one else will."

“I gather you learned of Ëarmîr,” he said. “He will be staying in Eryn Lasgalen.”

“I am aware of that,” I said sharply. “Why is what I seem to find difficult to ascertain.”

“He is here for me,” he said. “I require additional assistance.”

“Oh, well,” I answered. “That tells me absolutely nothing.”

“I shall explain to you later, if I may, Thranduil,” he said reading a scroll. “My time is sacrosanct just now. Must prepare for tonight.”

“Tonight,” I asked perplexed. “What is tonight?”

“Dinner,” Eldôr said, patting my shoulder as he and Fëaluin walked past me and out of the study.

“Worry not, Thranduil,” Ardôr said quietly. “All is well in your kingdom.”

He left with Elendôr, leaving me and Elranduil to ourselves. I had a feeling of suspicion within that something was going to happen.

“Elranduil, what do you know,” I asked. “Please, tell me.”

“You are the King of Eryn Lasgalen,” he said. “If you wish to know more than that, I am afraid I will be of little help. I am just as confounded as you are, cousin.”

I knew then I was in for another revelation that would be more spectacular than the last.

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

It was dawn when Êlúriel and I stood with our 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. “Fëaluin 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 where Êlúriel waited for us. 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.”

“My son,” Êlúriel whispered.

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, Êlúriel took her turn.

“I knew you would return,” she said. “My little Greenleaf.”

“Nana,” he said, blushing.

Beside him stood the dwarf that arrived with him. He bowed eloquently as any prince would to a king. In his face, I recognized another.

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

“So I have heard,” I said. “We were fortunate to have met his father again 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. “Fëaluin, 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,” Fëaluin 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.”––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.

[extendedtkwrtrilogyend]

Chapter XXVIII (EXT): The Arrival of Thûlë

“That evening, there was a grand feast in the dining hall to celebrate Legolas’ safe return home. It had been a long time since my household felt whole again as the servants served us the freshest delights prepared for this occasion. Nenduîl and Aranduil sat as close to Legolas and Gimli as they could; eagerly asking them about their adventures. Eärluin and Auríel sat near their brothers whispering to one another and giggling at their excitement. Eluriel spent her time speaking with Isilriel, Nenloth, Ardúin and Ëariâth. The hall was filled with life as it was when I was young and my father was king. Though I sat in his place, I felt as I had before that the wars took so much from our kingdom.

“Thinking again,” Nimlos said leaning across Aramír. “You should be listening to Legolas. He’s had quite the adventure.”

“I will speak with him later,” I said. “As it is, he has the ear of Nenduîl and Aranduil.”

“They have been following him all day,” Aramír said. “He rather enjoys having an audience.”

“Just like his mother,” Nimlos said. “I remember she would tell me and Nenloth about adventures when we were young, though hers came from her imagination as though they were real.”

I laughed softly as I watched Êlúriel. Seemed not long ago she was telling me of her childhood or spinning a tale about our life together. As I watched Legolas and Gimli from a distance, their engagement with the children of the court brought memories of Êlúriel in the garden with children after she came into Eryn Galen. It was a sad but pleasant thought.

“If you will pardon me,” I said, rising. 

The room fell quiet and the court stood to bow to me. Êlúriel looked concern as I left the dining hall and made my way to the garden. It was a calm evening—nothing but the song of the night sung by the nocturnal chants of the woodlands creatures large and small.

Light of dim lanterns cast shadows down the winding paths as I sat amidst them on a bench deep in thought. It had been so long since I had been accustomed to a peaceful night I wondered what it was like in other places across the world.

“Ada,” a voice said. “Is something the matter?”

It was Legolas. I shook my head.

“Nothing,” I said. “Just found myself wanting to think. Why are you here?”

“For the same reason,” he said sitting beside me. “So much has come about, there has hardly been time to own's self. Now that I am home for a time, I want to remember how it was before I leave again.”

“You are leaving,” I asked. “You have just arrived.”

“Not quite yet, Ada,” he said smiling. “You will have me for a time. Though I hardly think you would notice with Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin at your side.”

“They are growing up,” I said. “Soon they will not need me as they once did.”

“That is not true,” he said. “They will always need you. I still need you. Time has changed many things, but the heart is not one of them.”

“I suppose you will accompany Gimli to Erebor to see his father,” I began. “I know Glóin will want to see his son as much as I wanted to see mine.”

“Of course,” he answered. “Tarthôn wishes to join me, if he may.”

I nodded. It was good to see my sons doing things together once more.

“Gimli was given sovereign over Aglarond and wishes to lead his people there to settle. I wish to see the world.”

“You were always the wandering kind,” I said. “You know I will not stand in your way. It is your fate and yours alone. Mine is here with my people. It always has been and always will be.”

“For now, just be my father,” he said.

“I will forever be your father no matter where you are,” I said. “I am glad for that.”

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

Legolas and Gimli remained with us for a week before they set out for Erebor with Tarthôn. There plan was to stay the same amount of time there before leading dwarves through the Rhovanion and on to Aglarond. It seemed a fleeting moment I had my son again, but I had no fear for him now. The world was born anew and many would go seeking what there was to see of it.

I thought many days on what Galadriel said to me. I knew what she what she meant. I had to callings now—both struggling within for dominance. Should I stay in my kingdom and conquer time or make the journey my ancestors never completed into the west. My time in this world was coming to an end but to which end would it come?

I felt there was time enough to think on this; I felt a much better use of my days was to spent with Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin. I had given them each a horse of their own—not realizing they had grown near the height of Legolas at that age. They were no longer children.

One day, I had decided to go riding with them along with Aranduil and Auríel. Nearly my height now, the boys had begun to look much like true Sindarinwa princes. We had traveled quite a distance—stopping only for Tárimë to pick flowers for her chambers.

When we returned to the stables, we dismounted and walked toward the palace.

“Ada,” Tárimë began. “What do you think of Fëandil?”

“You mean the son of Arawë,” I asked attempting to remember him. “Why do you ask?”

“She has eyes for him,” Nenduîl said teasing his sister. “It is no secret to anyone.”

“Especially to Grandfather,” Aranduil added. “I am surprised he has not said anything to you.”

“Tarthôn has been away often, Aranduil,” I answered. “He only returned from Gondor recently. Is it true, Tárimë? Are you fond of this young elf.”

“No, Ada” she lied. “That is preposterous, Ada. He is as troublesome as these two.”

“I think it is a good match for my sister,” Eärluin said.

“Do not listen to my brother, Tárimë,” Auríel said. “He has eyes for Êldúlin.”

“I do not not, Auríel,” Aranduil said, his face flushed as Eärluin giggled.

“I know you better, Tárimë,” I said. “You have never been one to hide your emotions from anyone.”

“His face does not displease me,” she said giving her brother a stern glare. “I suppose he is adequate.”

“Adequate,” I said. “If you think he is adequate, then I suppose I should think so as well. Whenever you find him more than adequate, tell me so I may speak with him.”

Aranduil and Nenduîl could not help themselves but to laugh all the way to the front gates when we were met by Ëarmîr.

“Go your way,” I said to them. “Ëarmîr wishes word with me.”

They continued on their way as I approached Ëarmîr.

“Someone wishes an audience with Your Majesties,” he said to me. “Queen Êlúriel has met with him.”

“Why has Fëaluin sent you to tell me,” I asked.

“I come to you on my own,” he said. “Fëaluin awaits in council.”

We entered the palace and made our way to the throne room. I noticed a tall creature standing quietly in the center of the room with Êlúriel. I noticed he wore the long robe of a wizard—of the Istari—the color of grey. He had long hair the color of silver with withering skin the color of a winter sky. He approached me, his eyes a deep hue of sky at the end of day.

“Do I know you,” I asked. “You remind me of someone.”

“Mithrandir, perhaps,” he said. “He is no longer the Grey Wanderer as he is known as The White Rider or Gandalf the White if you wish.”

“Who are you,” I asked.

“Thûlë,” he answered, “And I have come quite a long way to see you,” he said. “From Mithlond.”

“May I ask why you have come?”

“As I have said,” he answered with a smile. “I have come to see you.”

“Why have you come to see me,” I asked.

“It was time,” he answered.

“It is time, Thranduil,” Êlúriel said softly, looking down.

I looked around the court—it had grown shallow and empty. It had become a shell of its former self. I looked to Ëarmîr who stood quietly next to Fëaluin.

“I know,” I said. “I know why you are here.”

“Oh, yes, Thranduil,” he began smiling. “I have heard much about you. You are beyond lore. You are of the ages that this world has seen over centuries. I arrived with Mithrandir in the Second Age and remained in the Havens and watched him sail into the west. He said I should await you there, but I knew I would remain there for another age should I do such a thing, so I came to you.”

“You saw my son, then,” I said. “Legolas?”

“Indeed. He left with a certain dwarf I believe. Gimli, son of Glóin.”

“Did he say anything,” I asked. I was hoping he did not say something that would touch my heart or break it for the mention of his name brought to me every moment I had with him since the day he was born.

“Yes, Thranduil,” he said smiling. “Peda aranon od Eryn Lasgalen, adar nîn, Thranduil Tárisil Oropherion, ernil od Eryn Lasgalen tolant na vedui sí Mithlond.”

I knew there were tears in my eyes but I did not care. My son was safe and I missed him greatly.

“I am afraid I have no words,” I said. “I miss my son.”

“He misses his father,” he said.

“How long will you be with us,” I asked quietly.

“Until it is time for me to depart, which will be in five days. I hope that I will not leave this place alone.”

I motioned to Fëaluin.

“Please escort Thûlë to where he may rest his head,” I said.

Fëaluin led him away. Before I could say a word to Ëarmîr, I turned to see Nenduîl.

“Ada,” he said smiling. “Are we leaving Eryn Lasgalen?”  

I looked to see Tárimë as well. Nenduîl looked much like me as Tárimë looked much like Êlúriel. I did not know the answer to his question. I was numbed at the thought of leaving.

“Something the matter,” Tárimë asked. “You are not yourself.”

“I am not myself, Tárimë,” I said. “Go to the gardens, I will come to you later. I must have a word with Ëarmîr."

They left quickly, giddy with anticipation of seeing me again.

“Galathil left you here to make sure that I would leave for Mithlond.”

“Yes,” Ëarmîr said softly. “You would not leave otherwise.”

“How would anyone know what is in my heart or my mind,” I said as anger and sadness began to rise to the surface.

“Thranduil,” Êlúriel whispered.

“Thranduil,” Eldôr began. “Calm yourself.”

“I will not calm myself,” I said. “Do not presume you know me! Any one of you! It is my life and my choice! If I want to remain here in my kingdom.”

I stormed away toward the gardens hoping Nenduîl and Tárimë would bring me peace as they often would. I felt a light breeze carrying the scent of Êlúriel. I felt my heart fill with joy for the first time since Legolas had returned to me after the war. I stopped at the railing and began to remember my youth. My friends.

“There is nothing here for us anymore,” Êlúriel said from behind. “Even our son has sailed on. Of all the things to fear, why would this be one of them?"

I saw Eldôr approaching us from the court calmly.

“I will speak with him, Êlúriel,” I heard him say. 

She nodded and went into the palace. In that moment, I longed to follow her, but I could not find the strength.

“They have grown into beautiful elves,” Eldôr mused. “I know what you are thinking, Thranduil. I have known you since you came into this world.”

“I know, Uncle,” I said. “Perhaps that was the reason for your return."

“What will you have us to do,” he asked quietly.

I never let the twins out of my sight. I seemed hypnotized by their frolicking.

“Send forth the rest of our people into the Havens and sail home,” I said. “The time as come. Êlúriel, Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin will sail. I will sail with you.”

We said nothing more as we watched the last of the elven children to grow up in Endor. and led them away to the old pool where I once played in my childhood. I knew I would have to tell Nenduîl and Tárimë that we were going home.

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

That evening, I requested Ëarmîr to send the children to my chambers. Eldôr had the court ready themselves to leave Eryn Lasgalen forever. With hurried excitement, what was left of the elves of the last elven kingdom prepared for the journey home.

When the familiar knock came to the door, I took a deep breath.

“Enter,” I said.

Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin came in slowly—uncertain what was about to happen.

“Please, have a seat,” I said. They sat on the edge of my bed in unison; their eyes focused on me.

“Are we leaving Eryn Lasgalen, Ada,” Tárimë asked.

“Yes,” I said. “We are leaving and we will never return.”

“Never,” Nenduîl asked. “Why can we not return home?”

“We are going to a new home,” I said. “Far away from this world. It is a place of eternal youth and beauty where we will live forever.”

“We do that here,” Eärluin said. “Why can we not do that here?”

“Because we are elves,” I said. “Unlike any other creatures we are. Our time here must end so the rest of this world may continue. I know you will miss Eryn Lasgalen. I will miss it as well because like you it is the only home I have ever known but where we go will be far more beautiful.”

“Where you go, we will go, Ada,” Nenduîl said.

“It will fine,” Eärluin said.

“We love you, Ada,” Tárimë said.

“I love you, too,” I said.

I embraced them, my heart heavy with the thought of leaving but glad knowing I will be with them for all eternity. When I released them, they were smiling.

“Now, go prepare yourselves. We leave at week’s end.”

They nodded and left me alone. I looked around my chambers remembering every moment of my life that took place within its walls. Memories were the only thing I could take with me—they were all that I would need.

“Is that why you are afraid to leave,” Êlúriel said as she came into the room.

“What other reason is there,” I asked. “I was born here. We met here and married here. Our children were born here.”

She walked over to me and poked me in the chest.

“That is where home is,” she said. “If there were no walls, we would still have a home because home is where love is. You carry that everywhere.”

I smiled at her. I knew she was right. I nodded and embraced her. I began to feel better knowing she would be by my side when I had to leave everything I had ever known forever.”––TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 12-22-17

Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.

[extendedtkwrtrilogyend]

Chapter XIX (EXT): Mirkwood Pt. III 

“Later that evening, I sat at my table and closed my eyes. I longed for my father. I wanted my mother. So much had happened I wished I could share with them. I opened my eyes and decided to a scroll in front of me. Lanterns cast strange shadows upon the wall of my study one evening as I began reading ancient words written by Iarûr, it told of another time lost forever.

Time begins as it will end—in a moment. There were many moments that have come and gone since we were awakened in the east and found ourselves lost in the west. There are many forests in Arda, and many mountains rise above them beneath an endless night.

While I continued reading, Fëaluin entered.

“Good evening, Fëaluin,” I said, reading. “All is well?”

“Yes, Thranduil,” he answered. “Eldôr is telling stories of his journey just now. Legolas seems enamored at the idea of traveling the world."

“He gets that from his mother, Fëaluin,” I said. “She has filled his head with stories from her own childhood. So long as his mind wanders and he stays inside the palace, I do not mind.”

“You will not be able to keep him inside forever,” he began. “Legolas and Tarthôn are headstrong. Much like their father. So it is with their sister as well.”

“Isílriel is too young to understand, Fëaluin. I will speak to her when she is older.”

“Thranduil,” he said. “I am afraid your daughter is more like you than you realize."

“You say that like it is a terrible thing to be,” I said as rolled up my father’s scroll.

“Sometimes it can be,” he said. “Sometimes it is good and even advantageous."

“Did Êlúriel ask you to speak with me?"

“You think she would have me do such a thing,” he asked. “The Queen has never had any issue with asking the King to do her bidding."

I looked at him with trepidation. I knew Êlúriel would not send Fëaluin to do anything she wanted unless it had to do with one of the children. I let out a deep sigh and leaned back into my chair.

“Send her in, Fëaluin.”

He motioned to the guards and into the room walked my little daughter in her nightgown with her golden hair in a single plait. She stopped short of the table and stared at me.

“I shall take my leave,” he said. “Good night, Princess Isílriel. Your Majesty."

He walked swiftly out of the room leaving me to my daughter’s whims. She walked slowly to me and stood quietly beside my chair.

“Isílriel, you wished to speak with me,” I asked.

“Yes, Ada,” she said.

“Come,” I said, motioning to her. “What would you like to know?”

“Everything,” she said climbing into my lap, leaning her head on my chest.

“Everything,” I asked. “I am afraid I do not know everything.”

“Yes, you do,” she said. “You are the king. You have to know everything."

“Not even kings know everything, Isílriel,” I said. “But I do know some things. And you want to know why you cannot go beyond the gates.”

“Yes, Ada,” she said. “Why can I not go outside? Is there something scary out there?”

“Yes, there is,” I said. “I almost lost you and your mother to such horrible creatures out there. It is my duty to protect you, your mother and your brothers and my kingdom from all the evil around us.”

“Will it go away, Ada?”

“Some day, I believe.”

“Before I grow up,” she asked.

“Long before, Isílriel,” I said. “That is my hope. I want to go outside myself.”

“You do,” she asked surprised. “Have you seen it out there?”

“Of course, I have,” I said. “I was not born in here, Isilya.”

She giggled. Unlike me, she loved being called “Isilya”.

“When we go outside one day,” she began. “Will you take me for a ride around the world?”

“I think it best we just start with a ride around the kingdom,” I said. “The world is a rather large place and you are still a little child."

“Alright. I will go when you go,” she said drifting off. “I will wait."

“I love you, Isílriel,” I said as I kissed atop her head.

When I felt she was sleeping, I carried him out of my study toward her room. The guards opened her chamber doors and I placed her in bed and tucked her in. As I turned away, I saw Êlúriel standing inside the doorway smiling.

“I love watching you with our children,” she said. “You are a wonderful father.”

I walked to her and kissed her forehead. I took her hand and kissed it.

“You are a wonderful mother,” I said. “Very clever, you are.”

We walked toward our room as the guards shut our daughter’s doors.

“Clever,” she asked. “I do not know what you mean.”

“I know Isílriel did not come to her father on her own.”

“Of course she did,” she said as we walked into our room. “She may be young but she has a mind of her own. Not unlike her father. She came to you before.”

“I was hoping I would never have to speak of such things to her,” I began. “It barely wanted to tell Tarthôn and Legolas.”

“She is growing up, Thranduil,” she quipped. “How long did you wish to wait? Until she was betrothed?”

“Yes,” I said softly. I knew it was silly to say but that was how felt.

“Thranduil,” Êlúriel said as she sat on our bed. “That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard you say.”

“No it is not,” I said quietly sitting beside her. “I have said far more ridiculous things.”

“I know your concern,” she said. “It is mine as well, but we cannot live in fear of our own kingdom no matter what darkness surrounds us. We are greater than it will ever be.”

I looked into her eyes and felt my strength return. I kissed her lips.

“I do not like it when you are right,” I said.

“I know,” she said. “But you cannot help it if you are always wrong.”

“Why did I marry you, Êlúriel,” I asked knowing her answer.

“Because, my love,” she said smiling. “I said yes. I apologize.”

“I apologize for asking,” I said as I kissed her good night.”--Excerpt from TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J.M.Miller (10-5-16)

Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.

[iamjaynaemarie]

Thranduil learns of the births of Nenduîl and Tárimë as well as Aranduil, their cousin and the shared great grandson of Thranduil, Elranduil, Nimlos and Tatháron, father of Ninyáre, wife of Ardôr. He learns the birth of the twins weakened Súlelenth tremendously. Êlúriel knows more than she will say, but both she and Thranduil fear telling Arímë or Haldúir anything about their son-in-law, Êlenuil for now.

Chapter XXI (EXT): The Best of Sons (Pt. VIII/a)

“It was not long after the wedding did time swiftly bring to Mirkwood more little elves for its last generation. As many things often came to me in the early morning, I was caught unaware. I was alone in my chambers resting peacefully when my doors flew open and an excited Isílriel ran in with Fëaluin not far behind.

“Ada,” she yelled. “Come quickly! You must come quickly.”

“Isílriel, please,” I said covering my ears. “Whatever it is, I am quite sure it can be said in a whisper.“

“Why are you still in bed,” she asked.

“Because, I am the king,” I said. “Why are you in my chambers yelling at me so early?”

“Nana said I would find you here,” she said.

“Well,” I said as I sat up. “Imagine finding her husband in our room.”

“Súlelenth and Aradúlin have given birth,” Fëaluin said, motioning to my dressers to enter. “We have three new elves.”

“Three,” I asked, motioning for Isílriel to turn away as I stood up and walked to my dressing corner. “I thought two maidens were married nine months ago. Why would there be three elven children born?”

“Súlelenth has given birth to twins,” Isílriel said. “One of each.”

“One of each,” I laughed. “Each of what?”

“A boy and a girl,” Fëaluin said, lightly smacking my head. “Aradúlin gave birth a boy.”

“Where is Êlúriel,” I asked. I knew she had spent most of the night overseeing the princesses with the ladies.

“Nana is with Súlelenth,” Isílriel said turning around. “Ëariâth is with Aradúlin, of course. I cannot choose where to stay, Ada. They are all so beautiful.”

When the dressers were done, they left us alone.

“To whom shall I go first,” I asked. 

Their faces changed instantly—gone was the excitement they once had.

“What is the matter?”

“It is Súlelenth,” Fëaluin began. “She was weakened by labor. She lives but Linurial confided in me she will not make it should any illness disturb her delicate nature.”

“What of her children,” I asked.

“They are healthy, Ada,” Isílriel said sadly. “They have fared better than their mother.”

I embraced my daughter as she began to cry. I nodded at Fëaluin.

“So I shall go to Súlelenth first,” I said. “Will you be able to take me there, Isílriel?”

“Yes, Ada,” she said looking at me.

She led us out into the hall and through one winding corridor to Êlenuil and Súlelenth’s room.

I entered a room of solemn faces bowing to me as I entered. I looked to see Súlelenth lying in bed—pale, weak and damp from sweat; her head on her mother’s lap with her husband kneeling by her bedside holding her hand.

“Your Majesty,” she said softly. “I wish I could stand in your presence, but I am afraid birth has weakened me for now.”

“No need to worry,” I said. “There will be plenty of time for that. For now, you need your rest. Êlenuil, where are your children?”

He pointed to a corner where Êlúriel and Mîráre stood beside two elaborately carved cradles—each holding a sleeping newborn. I slowly went over to see them. I did not wish to wake them.

“This is Nenduîl,” Êlúriel whispered. I saw a sleeping baby, with soft golden hair.

“This is his sister Tárimë,” Mîráre said, showing me another newborn. She stirred in her sleep—opening her bright grey eyes that seemed to know who I was. Her hair nearly matched Êlúriel’s in color.

“They are beautiful,” I said. “Êlúriel, may I have a word with you?”

She nodded as she handed Nenduîl to Isílriel. As we turned to leave, everyone bowed. I motioned to Fëaluin to follow. Once in the hall, I felt a sense of comfort. The sight of Súlelenth had disturbed me greatly.

“Fëaluin, send word to Elranduil and Ardúin of my arrival,” I said.

He nodded and went his way. I turned to Eluriel.

“I expect you know of Súlelenth frailty,” I said.

“I do,” she said. “As does Arímë.”

“She could die,” I said.

“I know,” she said, looking down.

“Do her parents know about Êlenuil,” I asked.

“No,” she said, raising her head and looking at me. “I would tell them no such a thing now or ever.”

“I will not ask your reasons until this day is done,” I said. “When I do, do not hold a thing from me.”

“My reasons are the same as yours,” she said. “Though, I suspect you have had a change of heart whether to say anything about it to Arímë and Haldúir.”

“I cannot say,” I said, thinking. “I need time. For now, I will go to Elendôr and Aradúlin.”

She nodded and the guards opened the doors for her to return again. I continued down the hall for a time until I came to two more doors. As they opened, I heard the distinct sound of a crying infant. Inside, the mood was light and joyful. Aradúlin was sitting up in bed with Ëariâth and Ninyávë sitting on either side of her—Ardúin and Arlúin at the foot of her bed as Ardôr and Tarthon looked on with pride as Elranduil walked around whispering to a small baby with bright blue eyes and the shiniest golden hair I’d ever seen.

“I see you finally found someone to talk to, Elranduil,” I said.

Hardly looking up, he came to me showing off the newest addition to his family.

“His name is Aranduil,” he said. “Elendôr wanted to name him after us.”

“Oh, to condemn a child to such a fate,” Eldôr said from across the room. “I remain proud nonetheless.”

“Ada, put him down,” Orísil said. “He was like this when Êleneth was born, was he not, Nana?”

“Yes he was,” Ardúin said rising from the bed and taking Aranduil from her husband. “Time to feed him, and time for all of you to leave. That means you as well, Elranduil.”

As we began to leave, we were being replaced by more ladies of the court. Once in the hall the doors closed and we just stood looking at each other for a moment.

“I never liked when they did that,” Eldôr said.

“Not at all,” Orísil said.

“It is so cruel,” Elranduil said.

Ardôr and Tarthôn tried not to laugh.

“No use standing around. We have council,” Fëaluin said. “Shall we?”

“I wish to see my brother, if I may,” Elendôr said. “I know he grieves for Súlelenth’s malaise.”

“You may,” I said.

“I worry for Êlenuil,” Ardôr said watching his son leaving. “What will he do if she were to die?”

“Do not say such a thing,” Tarthôn said. “The thought pains even me.”

I did not say a word about it for the rest of the day. I kept my thoughts to myself until evening when I could speak to Êlúriel.”–TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 10-30-17

Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.

[iamjaynaemarie]

A chapter so long, it will have to be cut into two—another epic wedding is about to transpire as Thranduil prepares to oversee the double wedding of Êlenuil and Elendôr. Part A of two parts of one excerpt begins with Thranduil and Êlúriel’s morning ritual uninterrupted for a little while. Isílriel is all grown up and Legolas will soon leave for a Fellowship. But for now, a family prepares for a wedding. 💐

Chapter XXI (EXT): The Best of Sons (Pt. VII/a)

“Morning crept upon the kingdom slowly. In the dark blue of twilight, I felt Êlúriel turn beneath the covers. Facing me, she smiled slightly as she moved closer to me and slipping into my arms. Her delicate skin was cool to the touch, sending a slight chill through me. We kissed as we found a moment to ourselves before the events of the day.

“Are you prepared for the day,” she asked. Her skin was warmer and flushed with color as I noticed the day had finally risen and the sun chased away the last remnants of night.

“I am now,” I said, kissing her forehead. “What of you?”

“I look forward to it, she answered. “I remember when we were wed—as if it were yesterday. It was the second happiest day of my life.”

“What was the first,” I asked curiously.

“The first was the day I knew I would become your wife,” she said smiling. “The day we first met.”

“I do not have a happiest day, I am afraid,” I said coyly.

“Why not,” Êlúriel asked frowning.

“Because every day with you is the happiest day of my life.”

We kissed again until the familiar knock was heard at our doors.

“Would you mind terribly if I put a lock on our doors,” I asked.

Êlúriel laughed as she rose from our bed and went to cover herself.

“Enter, Fëaluin,” she said.

Through the doors came Fëaluin with several servants—several bringing breakfast. I remained where I was as the activity stole from me a feeling of being ordinary. 

“Thranduil,” he began. “Fancy finding you still in bed when you should be attending to your duties.”

“How is that possible,” I said. “I cannot attend to anything without you. The day would no longer be sacrosanct without you reminding me to attend to my royal duties every morning. Perish the thought.”

“No time for melodrama, Thranduil,” he said ignoring me and bowing to Êlúriel as he approached her. “Your Majesty, how was your night? I hope it was pleasant.”

“It was, thank you,” Êlúriel answered. “My ladies await me?”

“Yes,” Fëaluin said. “They await just outside.” They turned their gaze toward me; I knew what it meant.

“Why is it on such occasions it is me that must leave my own chambers,” I asked, motioning for the servants to bring my robe. “I am the king of this realm if you have not noticed.”

“We have noticed,” Fëaluin said. “How can we not? You have reminded us of it every morning for nearly three thousand years.”

When I was covered, I went to Êlúriel and kissed her.

“It is only for this day,” she whispered.

“Please, my dear,” I whispered. “Do not tease me.”

I turned and proceeded to follow Fëaluin and two servants out the door and into the hall. It was filled with ladies going into my chambers.

“Good day, Ada,” I heard Isílriel say.

I turned to see her walking toward me—hardly recognizable from the child she had been. She was as beautiful as her mother and in every way a lady. She embraced me and kissed my cheek.

“How is my daughter,” I asked.

“Quite well,” she answered. “Nana has sent you away, I see. Elranduil awaits you in his chambers.”

“For once I would like to have my cousin inconvenienced,” I said.

“But your chambers are far larger, Ada,” she said. “Cousin told me it was tradition.”

“Yes, of course, Darling,” I answered. “Carry on. I shall see you soon.”

She smiled and followed the last of the ladies into my chambers as Fëaluin and I began to go our way.

“Remind me to have a word with Elranduil about this ‘tradition’, Fëaluin,” I said. He laughed as we made our way toward Elranduil and Ardúin’s chambers.

Upon entering the room, everyone stood and bowed. Every one that should be in attendance were—including Legolas dressed as his brother and cousins. I could see that like his sister, he was well beyond childhood. Looking around, there were no remnants of my youth left. I was looking at the world through the eyes of my father—as a king that had ruled for centuries.

I noticed Êlenuil and Elendôr looking fearful at my arrival. It meant that the time had come to leave youth behind. I acknowledged them and led my dressers toward the dressing corner shielded by a screen. I heard room empty as my dressers began their work.

“I know you are still here, Elranduil,” I said.

“Of course,” he said. “As always.”

“It would seem my daughter thinks it is tradition to have the king ceremoniously pushed from the royal bed chamber on such an occasion.”

“I know nothing of such a thing,” he said. I could tell he was laughing and I could here others laughing along with him. “The princess must have heard it from someone else.”

“Do you mean it is not true as you said,” I heard Legolas ask. The room erupted in laughter as I came round to see all the princes in the room.

“You know nothing of such a thing,” I repeated to Elranduil as I straightened the sleeves of my robe while a servant followed me brushing my hair. “I find that hard to believe.”

“I might have mentioned it in passing,” he said.

“Elranduil, please,” Eldôr said. “Already a grandfather, still acting as a child. Send for the others to return. Make yourself useful.”

Elranduil sneered and went into the hall as Eldôr turned to me.

“You never fail to remind me of your father,” he said. “He would be proud of you.”

“Thank you, Uncle,” I said softly. “I wish he were here. Mother as well.”

“They would both be proud,” he said. “As I am.”

When the room was full again, I noticed Haldúir had joined us. He was dressed as a member of the household he would soon be apart. Unlike before, he seemed at home with us. I knew Fëaluin had much to do with that as he and Eldôr had their time with him. I walked to him and he bowed.

“Your Majesty,” he said.

“Haldúir,” I said. “It is good to see you again. The attire of the elves suits you rather well.”

“Thank you,” he said. “You must see Arímë. I have not seen her more beautiful nor more joyous. Seeing her family again has lifted her spirits.”

“You are family now as well,” I said. “I believe our worlds are better for it.”

“It is time,” Fëaluin announced. “Everyone to their positions.”

Everyone began moving around quickly. I was left with Tarthôn, Ardôr and Haldúir alongside Eldôr and Fëaluin. We were to lead the procession to the ceremony with our wives. When the halls fell quiet, we went into the hall. There waiting for us were Êlúriel, Ëariâth, Ninyáre and Arímë. They were all beautiful—dressed in the robes of the season. An elegant cacophony of rich gold, orange and reds the leaves of autumn. I went to Êlúriel and took her hand.

“Shall we go, Your Majesty,” I asked her. 

She nodded and we made our way through the empty halls of the palace and outside toward the marital canopy where the rest of the court waited.”–TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 10-9-17

Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.

[iamjaynaemarie]

This is the entire chapter 😘...a particular romantic scene made it impossible to cut into excerpts. And Thranduil has a lovely vision of his mother, Nimeithel. Also, Legolas 🧝🏻‍♂️ returns home. With Gimli, son of Glóin.

Chapter XXVII (EXT): Mirkwood to Eryn Lasgalen/Legolas’ Return

“I emerged from my tent at dawn to the sound I had not heard for centuries it seemed—birds chirping melodiously. Nearby, there were woodland creatures roaming beneath the forest tress softly swaying in unison as a gentle breeze blew through their branches. The sky began to lighten as the sun rose; it was a vibrant blue I could almost touch.

Evil was gone. I could not help but remember the years that had come before—so many years of darkness intermingled with moments of joy swirling around times of anguish. I had come out of the shadows to see the dawn of the new age father had said I would.

“Thranduil, son of Oropher,” I heard a voice say beside me. It was Galathil.

“Galathil, son of Galadhon,” I answered. “So this is the day our fathers wished to see.”

“Yes,” he said. “And yet, it comes as every day before it—in a whisper too quiet for us to hear. Perhaps that is how time wishes it to be. To allow us to appreciate all that is given and all that is lost.”

“I have spent much of my life fighting time as much as evil,” I said. “I have never known what it would like not to fight something.”

“I am sure you will not miss it,” he said. “You will not forget it, but you will not miss it.”

“I know one day, I will forget,” Celeborn said as he walked toward us with Ëarmîr. “I look forward to that day with great expectation. For now, I look forward to our return to your palace, Thranduil. Galadriel is waiting.”

“I must apologize to you, Celeborn,” I said as I saw Eldôr approaching with Elranduil. “I did not prepare her for the horrors of my halls.”

“What horrors,” Celeborn asked concerned.

“Five little elven children, I am afraid,” Elranduil said smiling. “They are rather precocious. They seemed to have inherited such behavior from me, right dear cousin?”

I gave him weak smile as he laughed with the others.

“I am sure they cannot be anywhere near the trouble of Elladan and Elrohir,” Celeborn said laughing. “I am sure Galadriel is fine, though I cannot promise the same for the children.”

As we laughed together I noticed Êlenuil with his brother Elendôr. He had a grey horse by its reins that was saddled and prepared for a long journey.

“If you excuse me,” I said.

I walked toward them; my gait heavy as my heart. They bowed to me as I came before them.

“So you are leaving, Êlenuil,” I said. “So soon after battle?”

“I must,” he said quietly, looking at the ground. “It is for the best.”

“You do remember what I asked of you?”

“Yes, Thranduil,” he answered as he looked at me. “You have my word.”

“I will send your children to you when the time comes,” I said. “I trust you will be there to receive them.”

“I will wait for them,” he said. “You have my word.”

I felt sorry for Êlenuil for his pain was palpable. His sorrow reminded me of myself when I lost Êlúriel. I wondered if I had been too hard on him.

“Elendôr, go see to your father,” I said. “I would like a moment with your brother.”

“Yes, Thranduil,” he said bowing. We watched him walk away toward camp. I could see things were being prepared for the journey back to the palace.

“Have I been too harsh with you, Êlenuil,” I asked. “If I have, forgive me.”

“You have been nothing more than noble,” he said. “As expected a King.”

“You are my kin,” I said. “You are a prince of the realm. You returned to fight for your people. I do not know anything more noble than that.”

“Thank you,” he said smiling beneath his golden hair.

“I remember when I almost lost my wife,” I began, my mind reliving the moment again as it had for centuries. “I would be remiss if I did not tell you how it was for me.”

“There is no need for you to remember such pain,” he said.

“I have never forgotten,” I said. “I have lived every day with that pain. There is not a moment I do not think how I almost lost her. I cannot fathom what it must feel like to lose such a great love as you have. Forgive me.”

I could tell by Êlenuil’s expression that my face had fallen grave. I felt the tears falling down my cheek as they had the day I held Êlúriel’s body in my arms—thinking I had lost her.

“I do not deserve her,” I said. “She is too good for me, but she loves me as if I were. If she had died that day, I know she would not have wanted me to leave our children without a father nor a kingdom without a king. I know how you long for Súlelenth, Êlenuil.”

Êlenuil was looking at me, his face serene. He had a smile on his face—one I had not seen since his youth.

“I know,” he said. “That is why I left Nenduîl and Tárimë with you.”

“What are you saying,” I asked trying to compose myself rather poorly. “I do not understand.”

“When they were born, grandfather remarked how much they reminded him of you and the Queen,” he said. “Her mother would tell her stories when she was a child about your love. When she died, I could not look at my children not because I did not love them. It was not because I lost their mother, though I loved her with all my heart. I knew she was mortal and would have died as mortals will. I could not look at them because they were so close and reminded me of you and Queen Êlúriel.”

I had regain some composure as I found myself wanting to understand what Êlenuil was trying to say.

“I am afraid you have lost me,” I said.

“I know they bring you much joy,” he said nearly laughing. “No matter how hard you try to show otherwise. You are the worst liar in all of Arda, you realize.”

“I am not,” I said defiantly.

“They were born out of love aptly named for a love everlasting.”

I was at a loss for words or thoughts.

“And Eärluin,” I asked. “She should know who her father is.”

“She reminds me too much of Súlelenth,” he said. “They adore you both. “I could not bare to lose their love.”

“You are their father,” I said. “How could they not love you?”

“I know they love me,” he said. “I love them very much. But they are a comfort to you. As much a gift to you as they were to me. I think it was for you they were born. They know their purpose and I know mine,” Êlenuil said smiling. “I will keep my word to you.”

We looked at each other—seemingly knowing what the other felt. He embraced me and I could not help but return it.

“Thank you for the mithril,” he whispered, releasing me from his embrace. He mounted his horse and rode toward the west as he had done once before. I watched him until I could not see him.

“Thranduil,” I heard someone say. I looked to see Elranduil standing next to me. “Something the matter?”

“No,” I said. “I was just seeing Êlenuil on his way.”

“We await you to lead us home,” he said. “Unless there is a reason you wish us to remain here and watch you stare at trees.”

I grinned at him—nearly laughing at myself. I nodded and we headed toward camp. Seeing the elves of Mirkwood and Lothlórien together brought back memories of the last time we were together. This time, we were not riding off to war; we were riding home victorious.

I mounted my horse and looked around to see elven soldiers proudly awaiting my command.  At my side waited Celeborn smiling serenely.

“Shall we,” he asked.

I smiled in return, motioned to move forward. As our procession began it’s slow move home, I looked back at the smoldering ruins of what was once Dol Guldur. Though it would be a long time before it would once again resemble Amon Lanc, the darkness was gone from my kingdom forever.

For a time, we traveled in silence—each of us savoring the victory filled the air and fell over the whole of Arda. As we made our way closer to the palace, a faint sound of cheers was heard.

“Word still travels quickly among our people,” Celeborn remarked.

“It is just as well,” I said. “We return victorious as I told Galadriel we would.”

“Seems Galadriel is not the only one with the gift of foresight,” he said.

“Not so much foreseen as promised, Celeborn.”

As we came to the path leading to the bridge, my kingdom welcomed us with glorious fanfare. Under a shower of flower petals. I could see my court waiting for us joyfully on the bridge. Before them, Galadriel stood with Isilriel alongside Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin. As we stopped, I dismounted as they came running to me.

“Ada,” they squealed as I knelt down to embrace them.

“You are home,” Tárimë said.

“Yes, I am,” I answered, as I noticed they were dressed in their finest court attire. “And how did you manage to greet me dressed so elegantly?”

“Lady Galadriel,” Nenduîl said pouting. “She told us it would please you.”

“It is itchy, Ada,” Eärluin said, scratching her neck.

“I am well pleased,” I said as I saw Galadriel approaching as Celeborn and the rest of the princes began to great their loved ones. I stood up and bowed to her.

“You must be weary,” she said embracing Celeborn. “Let our warriors take their rest before we return home, if they may, Thranduil.”

“Of course,” I said. “Fëaluin, prepare the court for celebration if you will.”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” he said smiling, his wife Linurial in his arms. “It would be my pleasure.”

As everyone made their way into the palace, I remained behind with Nenduîl and Tárimë.

“Tell me, children,” I began. “Did you mind yourselves while I was away?”

“I did,” Tárimë said. “I cannot say the same for my brother.”

“I was well-behaved,” Nenduîl said defensively. “Much more than my sister.”

“If I were to ask Galadriel, what would she say to me?”

There was a moment of silence and I could not help myself but to laugh.

“I was very good,” Eärluin said. “Nana said so.”

“Where is Nana,” I asked, worried.

“She is waiting for you inside,” Tárimë said. “She said she wanted to see you alone.”

Curious, I entered the palace behind them. I was happy to home and wanted to see Êlúriel.

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

Inside, the children went their way as I made my way into my study where waited the many faces of my lifetime. To thunderous applause I was received. I approached Celeborn as he stood beside Galathil, Eärmîr, Haldir, Rúmil and Orophin. We stood for a moment looking at one another as the praise subsided. It was then that we embraced one another. Cheers returned again—the sound rising louder than the falls behind us.

“Let no more time fall between us now that darkness has fallen from the rest of our days,” I said. “It is a day I never thought I would see but for my father I am his eyes from the grave. He would be proud.”

“Yes, he would, Thranduil,” Celeborn said. “Tonight we celebrate and tomorrow you will face the world as King of Eryn Lasgalen.”

“What,” I said taken aback. “What are you saying?”

Celeborn smiled as Galathil patted me on the shoulder.

“You were never one to take anything without bewilderment,” Galathil said. “Or so I have been told.”

“Yes, I am afraid my cousin is often taken aback,” I heard Elranduil say as he approached. “Good news or bad, it does take him a moment to find the words to say anything.”

“Well, then. He has the rest of the evening to find his words,” Celeborn said. “In the meantime, I believe your court is being prepared for celebration and I shall take my leave to do likewise.”

I never heard the study empty nor had I realized I had regained my kingdom. It was a moment I would never forget—after so long under the curse of Sauron, I had come full circle to see my kingdom through sorrow and pain to joy and peace.

For as long as there is a kingdom to rule, you will. My father’s words rang true—as I heard them spoken once more from my heart.

“Thranduil,” I heard my name called. I turned to see Nimlos.

“Yes,” I asked. “What is it?”

“Time to get ready for the celebration,” he said. “You are not going like that, are you?”

I looked down at myself. I was still in my armor—stained with dirt and the dried blood of orcs.

“I could use a change of wardrobe,” I answered. “And a bath.”

I went to my bath and noticed I was alone. I looked forward to having a moment to myself. After my armor was removed, my dressers left to prepare my wardrobe for the evening. Once in the bath, I closed my eyes, took a deep breath and felt myself release all the tension of the day. Though exhausted, I wondered where Êlúriel was as I had yet to see her.

“You never cease to amaze me,” I heard a voice say to me.

“Elranduil,” I answered. “Who allowed you in here?”

“Amusing, Thranduil,” he answered. I opened one eye to see him sitting nearby in his robe and fresh from his bath. “I wanted to see to your well-being.”

“What do you want,” I asked.

“Not a thing,” he answered. “Though father wanted to know how you were. You seemed beyond his reach for a moment What is on your mind?”

“I am in need of rest is all,” I answered as I closed my eye. “Nothing more. Uncle mustn’t worry himself although I am quite sure it is you that would like to know more.”

“No,” he said. “Though your son wishes to speak with you before tonight’s celebration.”

I opened my eyes and sat up.

“Tarthôn,” I asked. “Is something the matter?”

“Not at all,” Elranduil answered. “He is quite well. There is no hurry. He is with Ëariâth just now. He has something he wishes to tell you. He refuses to tell anyone but you.”

“I have raised him well, then,” I said reclining once more. “He knows you can never keep a secret.”

“I can so,” he said rising. “I kept many of your secrets. Is it my fault Ardúin could get them from me? She can be quite persuasive.”

“She is not persuasive, Elranduil. You are afraid of her.”

“I am not,” he began as a servant entered and bowed.

“Yes,” I asked.

“I was sent by Her Highness, Princess Ardúin,” he said quietly. “She wishes for His Highness Prince Elranduil to join her immediately.”

“Tell her I shall be with her in a moment,” Elranduil said.

“Now, Elranduil,” a voice came from across the room. It was Ardúin. I could not help but laugh.

“If you will excuse me,” Elranduil said. “My wife requires my presence.”

He hurried away with the servant. I took another moment to enjoy my solitude—closing my eyes to rest.

“You kept your word,” a voice said.

It was Êlúriel. I opened my eyes just as she had slipped into the water and glided over to me and embracing me.

“So I have,” I said, holding her. We did not say another word as we found ourselves lost in a kiss and locked in an embrace for what seemed a magical eternity. When she was done with me, she stepped out of the bath, wrapped herself her robe and rang for the servants.

“Do not be late, Thranduil,” she said, smiling.

Soon the servants arrived. I stepped out of my bath and was dried and dressed in a robe and I made my way to my room. The guards opened my door and I entered. A moment later, my dressers entered and began to prepare me for the night. I was placed in the colors of spring—rich greens with silver embroidered leaves on my coat. A knock came to my door.

“Enter,” I said as one servant began combing my hair. It was Tarthôn with Aranduil close behind.

“How’s Nana,” he asked grinning.

“You have a shadow with you, son,” I said, smiling thinking about Êlúriel.

Tarthôn turned and picked up his grandson.

“Well what do you know,” he said. “How did you come upon me, Aranduil?”

“I followed you,” he said. “I wanted to come.”

“I think he wanted to see you as much as I did,” Tarthôn said. “You look fine this evening, Ada.”

“Am I to assume Êlúriel is waiting for us?”

“She does,” he answered.

“Elranduil said you wished to tell me something.”

“Yes,” he began. “There is word from Gondor.”

“Gondor,” I asked. “What of it?”

“Legolas has survived the war,” he said. “He is there with Aragorn. I was told of it before we left Dol Guldur. It would appear Legolas sent a messenger ahead of the news.”

I turned slowly toward Tarthôn—who was straightening Aranduil’s little buttons on his robe. When he looked up, his face was smiling as brightly as my own must have been.

“This is wonderful news,” I said. “Wonderful. I have both of my sons and I could not ask for more.”

“Me,” Aranduil said angrily. “I am here too.”

“Yes,” I said. “You are here as well, Aranduil. How could I have forgotten?”

In overwhelming joy, I embraced them both. I knew I would see my sons together again some day soon.

“Let us celebrate, Ada,” Tarthôn said as he put Aranduil down. “The kingdom awaits.”

“Very well,” I said.

We left my room and entered the hall. As we approached the court room, festive spring colors dressed everything from pillar to post. Green, indigo, red, yellow and white created an aura of the forest floor. Êlúriel stood at her throne, her gown the color of mine, her crown upon her head as a halo. My court once engaged fell quiet as I took my place beside her.

“Tonight we celebrate,” I began “For the darkness that fell upon our kingdom is no more. It is a new day not only for the elves, but for all that live in every corner of this world. Peace has finally returned to the Woodland Realm.”

A roar of cheers filled the room and resounding into every crevice of the halls with a sound that for the first time was greater than the force of the waterfalls’ ever flowing. I walked down from my throne and made my way to the room above the festivities. Upon reaching the window seat, I remembered the night of my wedding—sitting with Êlúriel in a quiet moment.

I continued further up the stairs to the room where I spoke with my father many times before he died in the War of the Last Alliance. I walked over to the window and looked out over Forest River quietly flowing into Long Lake. The trees were turning black with the setting of the sun but I could see the stars beginning to peek through the eastern sky one by one.

“Ada,” I heard a child say. It was Nenduîl. I turned to see him and Tárimë standing behind me. I motioned to them to come. I noticed for the first time how much they had grown as they approached me.

“It is a beautiful night,” Tárimë said looking over the balcony. “Can we go outside now?”

“In the morning,” I said. “After the ceremony.”

“What ceremony,” Nenduîl asked looking terrified. “Do I have to dress up again?”

“Nenduîl, you are a Prince of the realm. It is proper protocol.”

“I am not fond of proper protocol,” he said leaning against me. “It is very uncomfortable.”

“I am a Princess,” Tárimë said. “I like being a Princess.”

“That is because you are a girl,” her brother said sticking his tongue out.

“Children, behave yourselves,” I said trying not to laugh. I remembered how much I did not like proper palace protocol at their age. “It will not be too long and afterward you are free to play with the other children.

“Outside,” Nenduîl asked looking up at me—eyes wide with excitement.

“Yes, outside.”

“Will you come with us,” Tárimë asked.

“I have some things to do. I am the King you realize.”

The both stood beside one another giving me their best sad and down trodden look in a rather convincing attempt at forcing my hand.

“Very well, perhaps I will join you after I am done with my duties,” I said.

Smiling they embraced me and I in return.

“We love you, Ada,” they said.

“I love you both very much,” I said, thinking about the last time I saw their father at Dol Guldur. I wondered should I tell them about Êlenuil.

“Nenduîl. Tárimë,” I heard Elranduil say. “Ardúin is looking for you. I need a word with Thranduil.”

They ran off into the darkness that had begun to surround the forest. I leaned agains the balcony once more as Elranduil joined me.

“How is the celebration,” I asked. “Am I needed?”

“It is fine, Thranduil,” he said. “You are noticeably missing but you are the king. You do what you like.”

“True,” I answered. “Why are you here?”

“I am here because I can do what I like,” he said.

“We like far too many of the same things, cousin.”

“I am afraid that runs in the family,” he said. “It would seem so does wandering away to think about all that has come to pass.”

“We have seen many things,” I began. “Some things I am glad I will never see again. There are a few things I want to see again.“

“I know,” he said softly.

“Father,” I said. “I wish he were here to see this day. Come, Elranduil. Let us return to the celebration. I believe the king should see to his court.”

We began walking toward the stairs where the sound of merrymaking filled the air. I hesitated for a moment.

“If you do not wish to return, your subjects will understand,” Elranduil said.

“I wish to join them,” I said. “I realized how long it has been since we had something to celebrate. It has been too long. Far too long.”

We began our descent down to the court room when I was met by Galathil.

“Thinking again,” he asked. Elranduil nodded and went on his way.

“Of course, Galathil,” I answered. “I am the son of Oropher. Thinking is an inherited trait.”

“Father always said as much. You realize Ëarmîr reminds me of Oropher every day. His mother would be proud. I wish our sister could be here to see how he has grown.”

“War has taken many over the centuries that never should have been lost—whether by death or by choice,” I said quietly.

I gave him a pat on the back and walked through the court of bowing courtiers on my way out the front gates and across the bridge.

It was the clearest of nights—it seemed every star in the heavens were shining. I made my way to the tomb of Oropher.

“I miss you, Ada,” I said feeling tear welling in my eyes. “I wish you could be here to see peace in our kingdom. I wish you could have known my son Legolas. He fought gallantly to save the world.”

I could not stop crying. Emotion took me from my posture as I fell to the ground. Three thousand years of pain flowed from me like a waterfall. I do not remember for how long I cried but when I stopped there was no sound left but those of nature. I looked up and was startled by a vision of my mother.

Dressed in a white gown flowing with her hair behind her.

“Thranduil, my son,” she said. “Do not weep for you brought peace to our kingdom and to our people.”

“Nana,” I said standing. “Is that you?”

She reached out and embraced me and I felt her close to me as I had in my youth.

“My little Isilya,” she said. I knew it was Nimeithel. “You have changed so much. I can see it in your eyes. But it is for the best. Soon you must decide what to do and it will be the hardest choice you will ever make.”

“What choice,” I asked. “What else could there be? The war is over. There is peace.”

“I cannot say but you will know when the time comes. I miss you, Thranduil. Since I left you. But I knew then as now that I will see you again. I must go now. I needed to see you once more before you left.”

“Where would I go,” I asked as she kissed my cheek and moved away further and further.” Where would I go? Mother? Nana?”

“What vexes you, Thranduil,” a voice said. I turned to see Eldôr.

“Did you see my mother,” I asked staring into the pitch of night. “She was here. Mother was here.”

“Oh course she was, Thranduil,” he said almost mockingly. “Nimeithel tends to do such things.”

“You do not believe me,” I said defiantly.

“She told you that you would see her again,” he said gently. “And you will. But now you need to rest before the dawn. We have a ceremony to attend.”

As we began toward the palace, I couldn’t help but look back. Nimeithel was gone. I could not help but wonder what she meant about the choice I would have to make. That choice would come to me sooner than I would have wanted.

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

The day was more beautiful than I could remember—crisp and clear. I was dressed in my finest spring regalia to go before my people. I stood in the hall quietly awaiting my children. Soon, Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin came before me. Nenduîl looked uncomfortable in his little robes which were as mine and I tried not to laugh.

“Shall we go,” I asked.

“Not yet,” Êlúriel said as she stepped out of our room. She was breathtaking—more heavenly than earthly as she approached us. “Now, we can go.”

They nodded and we made our way down the hall toward the front gate. Before we were to exit, we awaited the rest of the family. Soon, Isílriel, Eldôr, Elranduil, Ardôr, Ninyáre, Tarthôn, Ëariâth, Orisil, Arlúin, Elendôr, Aradúlin, Tatháron, Aranduil, Auríel, Êleneth, Aramoth, Nenloth, Nimlos, Sildúriel, Aruilos, Nimlúin, Aradûial, Fëaluin and Linurial. When all were assembled, the doors were opened and we walked out into the sun.

Before us stood every elf in the kingdom standing side by side with elven warriors of Lothlórien. On the bridge awaited Celeborn, Galadriel, Galathil, Ëarmîr, Isílion, Tárion, Haldir, Rúmil and Orophin. As I took my place beside Celeborn and Galathil, I nodded—a smile across my face I felt for what seemed an eternity.

“Elves of Mirkwood,” Celeborn began. “The curse of Sauron that kept your people in shadow is no more. Your kin in the West need not fear any longer the darkness their kin in the East have endured alone. The name of your king shall once again be on the lips of all creatures in Arda as it was always meant to be. Forevermore shall he be known as King Thranduil of Eryn Lasgalen.”

There rose from the elves cheers that could be heard for miles around. I turned to Celeborn as he smiled at me. I had no words to express the happiness I felt.

“You need not say a word, Thranduil,” he said. “It was my pleasure. We never should have let you suffer such evil alone. You are one of us—our kin. Forgive me such indignity.”

“There is nothing you have done that needs forgiving,” I said. “It was not your doing that our kingdom fell to Sauron. I know now you did what you felt you had to do. You are here now. That is all that matters.”

“Until tomorrow,” he said. “I am sure Elrond is waiting for us to return to prepare for a wedding.”

“Arwen and Aragorn,” I said.

“Galadriel can hardly contain herself,” he mused. “I find it refreshing she has lent her wisdom elsewhere rather than on me.”

“Seems Nenduîl would agree with you.”

“She told me about him,” he added. “A rather precocious stripling you have there. Galadriel needs more rest than we did coming from battle, I dare say.”

“I am afraid he gets it from my cousin, Elranduil,” I said laughing. “He was much like Nenduîl in his youth.”

“I remember you having an rather inquisitive penchant for trouble,” he said. “As it were, Elranduil told me as much. He said you still have an inkling of it.”

“Elranduil says many things,” I said glancing at him as he spoke with Galathil. “Most of which are exaggeration.”

He laughed and went to Galadriel as Aranduil, Nenduîl and Tárimë ran by followed by several other elven children nearly knocking over Ëarmîr.

“Must I stay, Uncle,” I heard him ask Galathil.

“I beg your pardon,” I asked walking over to them. “What is this about?”

“Ëarmîr will remain with you when we leave,” Galathil said. “He knows his place. Not a word until the day comes.”

“I do not understand,” I began before Elranduil interrupted.

“Enough for now,” he said. “We have things to attend to. If we may, Galathil?”

He nodded and walked away with Ëarmîr.

“Why is Ëarmîr staying with us,” I asked again. “Which of my council is he replacing?”

“No one is leaving,” he said escorting me into the palace. “He is staying with us for a brief time. I would not worry yourself about it just now. You have to decide what to do with the extended borders of Eryn Lasgalen.”

I stopped short of the main gates as the guards opened the door.

“I could have sworn I am the King of the realm,” I said angrily. “Yet, somehow I have no knowledge of what goes on within it. I demand that you tell me what is going on this instant.”

“I cannot tell you for it is not for me to tell,” he said. “Just know it is all for the best. Now, Fëaluin awaits us in your study.”

We continued on into the palace and into the study. I was prepared to protest when I stopped in my tracks. In my presence was Ardôr talking to his son Elendôr as Fëaluin spoke with Eldôr. They turned and bowed to me.

“You wished a word, Fëaluin,” I asked. “Perhaps you can tell me what no one else will.”

“I gather you learned of Ëarmîr,” he said. “He will be staying in Eryn Lasgalen.”

“I am aware of that,” I said sharply. “Why is what I seem to find difficult to ascertain.”

“He is here for me,” he said. “I require additional assistance.”

“Oh, well,” I answered. “That tells me absolutely nothing.”

“I shall explain to you later, if I may, Thranduil,” he said reading a scroll. “My time is sacrosanct just now. Must prepare for tonight.”

“Tonight,” I asked perplexed. “What is tonight?”

“Dinner,” Eldôr said, patting my shoulder as he and Fëaluin walked past me and out of the study.

“Worry not, Thranduil,” Ardôr said quietly. “All is well in your kingdom.”

He left with Elendôr, leaving me and Elranduil to ourselves. I had a feeling of suspicion within that something was going to happen.

“Elranduil, what do you know,” I asked. “Please, tell me.”

“You are the King of Eryn Lasgalen,” he said. “If you wish to know more than that, I am afraid I will be of little help. I am just as confounded as you are, cousin.”

I knew then I was in for another revelation that would be more spectacular than the last.

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

It was dawn when Êlúriel and I stood with our 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. “Fëaluin 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 where Êlúriel waited for us. 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.”

“My son,” Êlúriel whispered.

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, Êlúriel took her turn.

“I knew you would return,” she said. “My little Greenleaf.”

“Nana,” he said, blushing.

Beside him stood the dwarf that arrived with him. He bowed eloquently as any prince would to a king. In his face, I recognized another.

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

“So I have heard,” I said. “We were fortunate to have met his father again 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. “Fëaluin, 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,” Fëaluin 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.”––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.

[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.

[iamjaynaemarie]

Be prepared—you will be bombarded tonight. After Celeborn leaves, Mirkwood prepares for war once more. Meanwhile, there will be a lot of cute little elves wandering around. When there is a marching horde of Orcs from Dol Guldur make their way toward the Gates, Thranduil makes his wife promise to stay inside. 😘

Chapter XXV: (EXT) Battle in the North (Pt I)

“At first light, Celeborn, Haldir, Rúmil and Orophin left for Lothlórien with the escorts chosen for them. Fëaluin stood with me as we watched them disappear beneath the forest brush before us.

“I grow tired of war, Fëaluin,” I said. “I do not think I can fight another battle.”

“You can and you will,” he said. “This war is unlike any we have seen or will see again. There is not a creature in this world that must bear arms against this evil.”

“It seems I lost my father and Melros not more than a day ago,” I said. “Now Legolas is out there somewhere doing what I must do once more. If I can fall in his place, then at least I will find some peace.”

“You will not fall,” he said. “You are not destined to fall.”

“How do you know this, Fëaluin,” I asked.

“My father told me that when you were born, Oropher said that his son would be the last great elven king in all of Arda.”

“Father said many things,” I answered. “Most of which while he had a bit too much miruvor to drink.”

“You are still here, are you not?”

“But for how long, Fëaluin,” I asked.

Soon Aranduil approached me and lifted his arms to me. I picked him up. He had just awoken and still in his nightclothes.

“Yes, Aranduil,” I asked. “What can I do for you?”

“Hold me, please,” he yawned.

Fëaluin laughed.

“Your great grandson seems to take after his other great grandfather.”

“Which one,” I asked. “Elranduil or Nimlos?”

“Must you ask, Thranduil,” he asked smiling.

We made our way into the palace just as Aradúlin came to me. I handed Aranduil to her.

“He seemed to have wandered away from the others this morning,” she said. 

“He is rather anxious this morning with all this talk of war.”

“How would he know of such things,” I asked.

“He wanders everywhere with Nenduîl and Tárimë. Where you go they will follow.”

This news disturbed me for I did not wish them to worry more than I knew they already had.

“Where are they now, Aradúlin,” I asked.

“I believe Linurial said they were in your chambers,” she answered.

“Yes,” Aranduil said. “They are in there. Nana, I am hungry.”

“Of course,” she said. She bowed and went her way with her son.

“I need to have a word with Nenduîl and Tárimë,” I said.

“Plenty, I would say,” Fëaluin said. He took his leave to my study and I went to my chambers.

I found Nenduîl and Tárimë resting in my bed—just waking for the morning. I sat beside Nenduîl on the bed as he slowly sat upright. “Nenduîl, have you been listening when you should not,” I asked as Tárimë sat up.

“Yes, Ada,” he said. “I want to know why you are leaving.”

“I am not leaving,” I said. “Not for some time. You should not listen on others without permission.”

“Why are you going away,” Tárimë asked. “Are you going away forever?”

“No, Tárimë,” I said. “I will return. But I must protect you, your sisters and everyone in Mirkwood from danger. You must not worry about such things.”

“Why not,” Nenduîl asked. “What if you die and never come back?”

“I do not know this nor do you,” I said. “You cannot worry about such things. I am here now.”

“You have to come back,” Nenduîl said. “Who will take care of us if you are gone?”

“I will take care of you,” I said. “I will return to you.”

“You promise you will, Ada,” Tárimë asked, crawling across the bed to embrace me.

“I once made a promise to return a long time ago and I kept it,” I said. “So I will make the same promise to you. I will return to you.”

“Then you will,” Nenduîl said. “You always keep your promises.”

“I try to keep them as I can,” I said.

As he embraced me, I thought as far as I could remember on all things I had promised to do. Each time I had kept my word and I wondered how I was able to do so. Then I realized how much I loved every one of them and would have done anything for them. Love had kept me from despair through many tragedies to keep my word. I knew I would again return home.

“You two must promise me something in return,” I said.

“Yes,” Tárimë asked.

“You must stop listening on whatever I say to others,” I said. “It is not for you to hear.”

“Then why do you say it so loud,” Nenduîl asked. “Sometimes we can hear you in the hall.”

I heard soft laugh come from no where.

“I will try better to speak softly if you promise to keep your ear from the door.”

“Yes, Ada,” they said sadly.

I heard the soft laughter once more and it was hard not to laugh in return.

“Now, it is time for you to eat,” I said. Go on. Aranduil is already in the dining hall I am sure.”

They quickly jumped off the bed and ran out the door.

“Êlúriel, you may come out now.”

She walked from behind her divider—a wide smile upon her face.

“I told you were loud,” she said as Elranduil peeked in. She kissed my cheek before walking out as he came in.

“I am not loud,” I shouted at her as her laughter reverberated through the hall.

“I hear Aranduil came to you this morning,” Elranduil said sitting beside me. 

“What did he say to you?”

“Hold me, please,” I answered.

“Oh,” he answered. “You realize he gets that from you. You were always doing that.”

“I beg your pardon,” I asked. “I never did such a thing.”

“You would always have to be held by Nimeithel every chance you could find—even in audience. But you eventually grew out of it once you were married.”

I looked at him crossly for a time before taking a pillow to his head.

“Well it is true,” he said, taking a pillow and hitting me back.

As we were partaking in a childish game, we hardly noticed Eldôr and Fëaluin standing inside the doorframe watching us.

“I was just having a word with Thranduil, Father,” Elranduil said hitting me one last time.

“I can see that, son,” Eldôr said. “Have you finished or would you care to continue your conversation?”

“No,” he said. “I have said all that was needed to be said.”

I hit him once more before putting down the pillow.

“Mirkwood’s greatest king,” Fëaluin said smiling.

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

I stared at my armor for what seemed a lifetime as I sat alone in the familiar workshop of the smiths. It was my third and my last suit I would wear into battle. I could see years of wars in its reflection. I remembered the fallen and the blood-soaked fields where they fell. 

All things tragic and all things beautiful seemed to happen the day before no matter how long it had been. When you remember them, they are more than memory—they are reminders of why we continue to live. They are the hopes we hold onto for better days before us. They keep us from dying even when that is all we want to do.

“How do you like it,” I heard Tatháron ask. “It should fit you well.”

“It resembles my father’s,” I answered. “The one he died in during the War of the Last Alliance.”

“It was commissioned by your father for you when you became king,” he said. “My father created it. After Oropher was killed he made me and my mother swear never to allow you to see it. But it was Eldôr that asked me to bring it forward for you after Celeborn left.”

“Why,” I asked.

“Your mother asked him to do so if there came another great battle,” he said.

“Well, should I die, I should fall as my father, then.”

“You will not fall,” he said. “You are a great warrior.”

“Great warriors fall, Tatháron,” I said. “I have seen it happen time and again.”

“True, but not you,” he said.

He went from the room and returned with a mail of mithril.

“No,” I said. “Give it to Tarthôn.”

“He already has his own,” he said smiling. “All the princes have their own. I wish for my grandson to return as well.”

“Of course,” I smiled. “Elendôr.”

“Tárwen held me to my word to watch over Ninyáre and her sons before she left with Mîráre for Aman. At least one of them has gone to them.”

I could not tell him that Êlenuil was in Mithlond so I smiled and nodded.

“I will not ask how you came by so much mithril,” I said. “Know that I am grateful for it.”

I rose to leave to return to my study.

“When you return from battle,” Tatháron began, “What will you do?”

“I will not leave this world,” I said. “Not until I know what has become of Legolas. Only then will I decide.”

I walked out of the foundry into the falling night. It was cool but the warmth of spring begun to emerge. It was night such as this long ago that after emerging from the caves, I met with Êlúriel before going to battle.

As I thought about her—wandering through the gardens in her flowing white dress her hair carrying the breeze gently beneath the night sky, I made my way toward my palace. It was quiet except for the creatures of the night lamenting the stars. From a distance I could see someone waiting at the gates.

When I grew closer, I realized it was Nimlos sitting upon the stone railing looking down into the river waters.

“Why are you out this evening,” I asked as I approached him. “I would think you would be with Sildúriel.”

“She is with Aruilos,” he said. “This will be his first battle. I cannot blame her concern. I worry as well. Perhaps even more. He is my only son.”

“I know how you must feel,” I said. “One son is out in the world and the other will join yours in battle.”

“My daughter would join him if it were not for Aranduil,” he said. “We both know how difficult Ëariâth can be.”

“She loves Tarthôn,” I said. “I could not ask for a better wife for my son.”

“I know you are thinking about more than your sons,” he said.

“Yes,” I said. “I am worried about Isílriel. She is as stubborn as her mother. That is not a secret easily kept.”

“True, Thranduil,”  he answered. “She is reminds me of Êlúriel’s mother Annariel. Born fighters, this clan.”

I laughed remembering my little Isilya eagerly watching her brothers practicing with their bows and always wanting to join them. Then my thoughts drifted to Êlúriel.

“Before we went to Dagorlad, I promised Êlúriel I would return to her,” I said. “I kept my word but I what if I cannot keep my word this time?”

“You always keep your word,” Nimlos said. “I have always liked that about you.” I smiled remembering when we first met.

“Besides,” I said. “If I did not keep my word Êlúriel would scold me for it and would never allow me to forget.”

Nimlos laughed.

“She inherited that from her mother, I am afraid. Poor Uncle. Whenever he had words with his wife, everyone could tell by the look on his face. I find it rather amusing to see that same look on Aramoth’s face after he has words with my sister.”

“It must run in your family,” I said laughing. “She may be young, but Tárimë is quite adept at it as well.”

We laughed together for a moment. I began to feel like myself for a moment. “Ada,” a voice said.

We turned to see Nenduîl running toward us. He leapt into my arms and embraced me.

“Why are you out this late,” I asked “Is your sister sleeping?”

“Yes, Ada,” he said. “I was looking for you.”

“You have found me, Nenduîl,” I said. “Shall I take you to bed?”

“Look, Thranduil,” Nimlos said.

I looked to see Arawë and Aldáros coming toward us frantically. Still winded, they bowed before me.

“Your Majesty,” Arawë began. “Randumîr sent word that a horde of glamhoth march this way and will arrive by morning.”

“What else did he say,” I asked.

“One horde attacked the borders of Lothlórien not long after Lord Celeborn returned,” Aldáros said. Another attack they will endure tomorrow.”

Nimlos and I looked at one another concerned.

“Follow Nimlos into the palace,” I commanded. “I must do something first.

Nimlos, call after Fëaluin and will come to you in my study.”

They bowed and all of them made their way into the palace.

“Will you fight tomorrow, Ada,” Nenduîl asked.

“Yes, Nenduîl,” I said carrying him toward the main gates. “I will fight tomorrow.”

“Will you win,” he asked as I entered the palace and walked toward his chambers.

“Yes,” I said. “I would not worry but you and your sister must stay inside the palace. Give me your word.”

He nodded as his chamber doors were opened and I tucked him into bed. I looked upon him for a moment then kissed his forehead. 

“Sleep,” I said. “I will see you when I return.”

He nodded and drifted off. I went to Tárimë and kissed her as she slept. As I was leaving, I heard a voice.

“I will be here when you come back,” Tárimë whispered. “I promise, Ada.” I turned and smiled then quickly left to prepare for battle. On my way down the hall, I was met by Êlúriel.

“Go on, my love,” she said softly. “I will see you upon your return.”  

I kissed her.

“Do not leave the palace,” I commanded. “Give me your word.”

“I will remain in the palace,” she said, smiling. “I give my word.”

I kissed her again and quickly made my way down the hall.”––TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 12-20-17

Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.

[iamjaynaemarie]

Thranduil and Êlúriel watch an Exodus of Elves leaving for the Undying Lands as war looms on the horizon; Thranduil explains mortality and immortality to Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin and he and Êlúriel have a romantic moment. 🤫

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

Mirkwood became quiet again after the skirmish with the Easterlings. I knew it would not last and my council prepared for war. The guards at the southern border were multiplied and my army spent their days preparing to fight. Randúmîr recovered but rather than return to the southern borders, he was appointed to council with Aldáros. With uncertainty looming, many elves decided to begin the long journey to Mithlond.

Elenadar sent his wife Elarían away with their sons Sîrandír and Sîrandor. Her sister, Elenlúin decided to accompany her. Her husband Elenatar sent his sons Sílrandor and Sûlrandír. Fëaluin tried to convince Linurial to accompany them, but she refused to leave him.

At dawn, I watched a family tearfully say farewell once more. I thought back many centuries—now wishing Êlúriel had left with my mother and her father.

“I would never have left you,” I heard Êlúriel say to me.

“Must you always read my thoughts,” I asked smiling. “They are my last bastion of solitude.”

“Your thoughts are as loud as you are,” she said. “If not more so.”

“I know I could never persuade you to go to Eldamar,” I said. “You are too stubborn.”

“No more than any other wife,” she said. “But I am also the queen and I belong with my people.”

We looked at each other—a wave of commonality washed over us.

“You know of the attack by the Easterlings on our southern borders,” I asked.

“Yes,” she answered. “Fëaluin told me not long after Randúmîr was brought in.”

“What do you think of it,” I asked her.

“I know you have reinforced the southern borders as it is the most likely to be compromised,” she said. “That will not be enough, for the western borders’ greatest weakness lies in the lack Beornings left to help defend it.”

She smiled and left me standing on the bridge in wonderment. As I prepared to go inside, Sildôr approached.

“Sildôr,” I said. “The elf I wanted to see.”

“Yes,” he asked.

“I think we should reinforce our western borders,” I said.

“It is done,” he answered. “I have made Arawë aware of it just now.”

“Oh,” I said surprised. “How did you know to do it?” 

“By order of Queen Êlúriel,” he said, smiling. He bowed and went on his way.

I smiled to myself as I went on about my duties. By the afternoon, I was in my study with Eldôr, Elranduil and Ardôr discussing what had transpired evening last.

“The presence of even a few Easterlings means that Dol Guldur may rise again,” Elranduil said. “Though they will not pass this way, evil rises and will come from many places.”

“We are not nearly as vulnerable to attack as others,” Eldôr said. “There is much trepidation about entering our borders. But whatever remains at Dol Guldur will only attack those beyond our borders. It is as much a curse as it is a blessing.”

“What remains at Dol Guldur is precisely the reason there is much trepidation,” Elranduil added. “You know as well as I that we are no more or less vulnerable from an attack than anyone outside our borders.“

“We may be able keep some things at bay, but not others,” Ardôr said, nervously. “Father, why can you not demand Mother to leave? If she left, I know Ninyáre would follow.”

“I cannot persuade Ardúin to anything she does not wish to do, son,” Elranduil said. “Should she decide to leave for Mithlond, it will be when she is ready.”

“We need her,” I said. “There are few ladies left to attend to the wounded. That is the reason she stays. For now, they are far safer within these halls than they are traveling to Mithlond.”

“The numbers of elves willing to remain grows less and less,” Eldôr said. 

“Between here, Rivendell and Lothlórien, our numbers dwindle as war grows ever closer. They spoke of it when I returned from Mithlond after I saw Nimeithel and Valdúril on their way. Círdan spoke of many waiting upon his return from Dagorlad.”

“It is good to know they are safe,” I said softly, thinking of my mother. “I want them to remember things the way they were, not as they have become.”

“They lived through much worse, Thranduil,” he answered. “So have I. I have come to realize that evil is as much a part of the world as good.”

“There is far too much evil,” Ardôr said. “It is all around us.”

“It is here to be heard,” I said. “There is far more good in this world than evil, but it must speak louder to get our attention and we give it fully because it is easier to hear the howling of a warg than it is the fluttering of a butterfly. We should fear what we become from what frightens us. Fear is the life blood of evil—it cannot exist without it. We cannot give evil what it wants if we are to defeat it.”

“You have become wiser with age, Thranduil,” Fëaluin said as he entered.

“Pardon my intrusion, but you have more pressing issues to deal with just now.”

“What might that be,” I asked. “What could me more pressing than planning for war?”

“You are needed in audience,” he said.

“Who seeks an audience with me,” I asked, wondering whom had come into my kingdom.

“I am afraid it is you that is being called to have an audience,” he said smiling. 

“I was told that you must come straight away.”

“Who dares command me,” I said angrily.

“Nenduîl and Tárimë,” he said. “They are in their chambers waiting to speak to you.”

Immediately, I calmed down and light laughter filled the room. I looked at Ardôr.

“Do you know what this is about,” I asked him.

“No,” he answered, perplexed.

I left my study and went toward their chambers. As I approached, the guards opened the doors and I entered to find Nenduîl and Tárimë standing with Eärluin in the middle of the room together calmly.

“Nenduîl. Tárimë. Eärluin,” I asked. “Is something the matter?”

“Who are we,” Nenduîl asked softly. “Why are we different from others?”

“What do you mean,” I asked walking to them and kneeling before them. “Who told you that you were different?”

“Aranduil,” Tárimë answered. “He said that we were not like anyone else. So I hit him and sent him away.”

“Tárimë, that was not nice,” I said. “You should never hurt another—especially your cousin. I do not think he was teasing you.”

“Then it is true,” Nenduîl said. “We are different.”

“I do not want to be different,” Eärluin said frowning.

“No one likes us anymore,” Tárimë said sadly. “Do you like us?

“What are you saying,” I asked. Everyone loves you and so do I.” 

“Then why are we different,” Nenduîl asked.

“You are a boy,” Eärluin said. “I do not want to be a boy.”

“You will never become a boy, Eärluin,” I began. “And you are not different, Nenduîl. You are elves. Like Aranduil and Auríel and all the other elves in the kingdom. But you also have some of your mother inside you as well. A small part of her will always be with you.”

“We are mortal,” Tárimë said. “We will die like Nana.”

“No,” Nenduîl said angrily “I do not want to die!”

“What is die, Ada,” Eärluin asked.

“Ada,” Tárimë asked. “You are our Ada now?”  

“Ada and Nana,” Eärluin said defiantly pointing at me.

That took my breath from me. How does one explain immortality to ones so young. I was given the responsibility of their care but tried to keep their parents in their memory.

“You are,” Nenduîl said. “Ours is not here. He left us with you. Now you are Ada.”

“Yes,” Tárimë agreed. “May we call you Ada?”

“If you wish.”

“Good,” Nenduîl said. “Are we going to die?”

“I do not want to die,” Eärluin said. “What is die?”

“Die is when you sleep forever,” I said. “You can never wake up.”

“Like our other Nana,” Tárimë said. “She died.”

“What other Nana,” Eärluin asked. “Why is she died?”

“Your other Nana was ill,” I said as I struggled to explain things well beyond their understanding—even as they tried to understand. “She went to sleep, Eärluin. Forever. That is what mortals do when they fall ill or grow old.”

“Are we mortal,” Tárimë asked. “Is that why we are different?”

“You are not fully mortal, Tárimë,” I said. “The smallest part of you is mortal. The part that comes from your mother.”

“What is mortal,” Eärluin asked.

“It is what we are not,” Nenduîl said. “We will never die.”

“Elves can die as well,” I said. “By many ways, Nenduîl. But I will not let that happen to you or your sisters. You have my word.”

“That is good,” Tárimë said.

“Why do you say that,” I asked.

“Because if we were to die, we would never see you again, Ada.”

They embraced me. I felt happier than I had in a very long time. I was in love with Nenduîl, Tárimë and Eärluin as I was with Tarthôn, Legolas and Isílriel.

“Now, go find Aranduil and apologize for hitting him,” I said to Tárimë. “I must go have a word with your Nana.”

“Tárimë hit him,” Eärluin laughing. “She hits like a girl.”

“Eärluin,” I said. “Go on with your brother and sister.”

She giggled as she ran out of the room with her siblings. I stood up and walked into the hall to find Êlúriel. I saw Isílriel speaking with Êleníel, daughter of Sildôr. She was as beautiful as Isílriel—with long golden hair and spritely blue eyes.

“Your Majesty,” Êleníel said bowing.

“Hello, Ada,” Isílriel said. “You must be looking for Nana.”

“Yes,” I said.

“Her Majesty is above us,” Êleníel said, motioning upward.

“Thank you, Êleníel,” I said. “Isílriel.”

I continued to the end of the hall and up the spiral stairwell leading to the rooms above the thrones. I noticed evening was upon us as I could see evening’s twilight revealing the  first stars of night. Several elves had begun the nightly ritual of lighting lanterns throughout the palaces. I glanced right to see Êlúriel standing by a window overlooking roaring falls starting to gleam in star and lantern light. She was wearing a long white gown with long delicate sleeves of sheer muslin; her long waves flowing behind her. She turned to see me and smiled as I approached.

“Is there anything you cannot do,” I asked her.

“How do you mean,” she asked.

“You raise our children, command our armies, keep our court and somehow manage to always look breathtakingly beautiful.”

She smiled at me then started to laugh.

“Oh, Thranduil,” she began. “You are quite possibly the worst liar in all of Arda.”

“I am not lying, Êlúriel,” I said. “I was paying a compliment to the queen.”

“To what do I owe such flattery,” she asked.

“Everything,” I said, caressing her face. “That is what you are to me.”

“And you are everything to me,” she whispered before I felt her lips on mine.  

We allowed ourselves to escape the agony and pain we had endured for months—knowing it would not be long before I saw battle again—one last time.”––TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 12-18-17

Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.

[iamjaynaemarie]

It’s so hard to say goodbye to yesterday—or in this case, Legolas one more time. Súlelenth give birth to a girl (Eärluin) that is annoying to Aranduil whose own mother had his sister Auríel. Glorfindel makes an appearance to give Thranduil a message from Elrond. Thranduil bonds with Eärluin. Thranduil and Êlúriel say goodbye to a Legolas as he rides off to his destiny.

Chapter XXI (EXT): The Best of Sons (Part VIII/c) 

“Not long after Aragorn left us, life returned to form. Aradúlin had given birth to a daughter much to the chagrin of Aranduil; now old enough to voice his thoughts rather loudly much to my amusement. Though I worried about Súlelenth as her time grew near, Êlúriel reassured everyone that she was in good spirits and stronger than expected. I saw otherwise in her eyes but said  nothing to her as I went about my duties.

As I spoke with Fëaluin one day in the hall, I felt a tug on my robe. I looked down to see Aranduil—his eyes wide with curiosity.

“Yes,” I asked. “What is the matter, Aranduil?”

“Up,” he demanded. I looked at Fëaluin trying hard not to laugh. I bent down and picked Aranduil up.

“You are up,” I said. “Is there something the matter?”

“You cannot hear me down there,” he said. “You are taller than I am.”

Fëaluin started to laugh.

“Well, I can hear you quite well now,” I answered. “What is it you want to say?”

“Why are there so many girls,” he asked genuinely concerned. “There are too many girls.”

“I do not understand,” I said.

“Nana had a girl now uncle says there is another.”

“I do not understand, Aranduil,” I said. “Another girl?”

“Yes,” he said sternly. “Êlenuil said there is another one now.”

Fëaluin and I looked at each other—our faces racked with concern. Before we could say another word, Ëariâth arrived.

“There you are, Aranduil,” she said. “Why did you wonder off?”

He looked at me then looked at her defiantly.

“He is the king,” he said.

“Aranduil tells me there is another girl,” I said as Ëariâth took him from me. 

“Súlelenth has given birth, yes?”

“Yes,” she said smiling. “She is faring rather well.”

“You have seen her,” Fëaluin asked.

“Of course. Someone must keep watch over Nenduîl and Tárimë—never mind this one.”

“Aranduil,” he said frowning. “I am Aranduil.”

“Yes, I know,” Ëariâth answered, flustered.

“Êlúriel is with her,” I asked.

“I was,” a voice said from behind us. Êlúriel walked toward me smiling.

“If you will pardon us,” Ëariâth said making a quick courtesy and going on her way.

“I shall see about Eldôr,” Fealuin said as he bowed and took his leave.

“How is Súlelenth,” I asked. “You are smiling. Shall I think her well?”

“You may,” Êlúriel said. “She is resting now. You may see her when she rises.”

“And the child,” I asked. “Aranduil has expressed his discontent on the arrival of another girl.”

“Did he,” she said, laughing. “He will have to accept that his new cousin is a darling little girl as his sister Auríel.”

“What will I call Súlelenth’s child?”

“Eärluin,” she answered. “She looks very much like her mother.”

“And you and Ëariâth say she is well,” I asked once more.

“As well as one can after such an ordeal.”

“Well, I know better than to presume what the fairer of us goes through,” I began. “I have been married long enough to know not to ask either.”

Êlúriel smiled at me.

“You have learned something after all these years,” she said.

“I share my chambers with you,” I began. “It is far more pleasant when I do not have to win a disagreement.“

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

It was nearing the end of Autumn—a few days short of Lasselanta—two years later that news would come from Rivendell. In my study, I sat alone reading when the doors opened. I did not see anyone enter, but I had my suspicions.

“Is that you, Eärluin,” I asked. 

A small child appeared peeking around my table—a head full of earthen curls and green eyes. She made her way over to me for me to take her and set her on my lap. Since she had begun to walk, she seemed wander into my study often. I continued reading as Eärluin leaned into my chest observe. Just then,  Fëaluin and Eldôr entered.

“A messenger just arrived from Rivendell,” Fëaluin said handing me a small note affixed with the seal of Rivendell. I opened it and began to read. When I was done, I put it down.

“Where is this messenger,” I asked. “Does he remain with us?”

“Yes,” Eldôr answered. “He awaits outside the doors.”

I nodded and Fëaluin waved to the guards. The doors opened and into the room came a familiar face.

“Your Majesty,” he said as he bowed to me. “It has been a long time.”

“Glorfindel,” I said. “It has been quite a long time.”

“I see you have been rather busy,” he said, referring to Eärluin sitting straight up on my lap and looking at Glorfindel with curiosity.

“You have word from Elrond,” I asked ignoring him. “It must be important if he sent it by you.”

“It is a matter of grave importance,” he said, his face falling. “You know of the awakening of evil once again in Mordor.”

“I do,” I answered. “Am I to guess that Aragorn told you of that hideous creature Gollum that escaped from my dungeons.”

“Not particularly,” he said. “But it is what that creature seeks that Sauron wants again he once lost.”

“I got nothing from Gollum of any worth,” I said. “If Elrond wants from me knowledge of what either of them seeks, your journey was for nought.”

“You read his letter,” he said.

“Yes.”

“Then you know what was asked of you,” he said.

“Yes.”

“Your answer is no,” he asked.

“My answer is not mine to give,” I said. “It will fall upon Legolas to decide.”

There was a painful silence that befell my study. The doors opened and Legolas entered with Mîráre.

“Ada, have you seen,” he began. “There she is.”

The two of them came to me and Mîráre took Eärluin from me. I stood up.

“Legolas, stay,” I said, motioning to Mîráre to leave. She could tell something was wrong and left quickly.

“What is it,” Legolas answered.

“Elrond has asked me to send someone to Rivendell,” I said. “He has asked me to give to a quest a prince of the realm. That would be you.”

Legolas seemed taken aback for a moment. He looked around the room curiously—looking at Glorfindel.

“Me,” he asked. “You would allow me to leave for such a quest?”

“I am afraid it is not up to me,” I said. “You are of age, Legolas. The decision must be yours to make.”

Legolas nodded, bowed and took his leave quickly.

“Rest, Glorfindel,” I said. “You will have your answer shortly. I know my son.”

He bowed and followed Fëaluin out the doors.

I sat down and turned my gaze to the thunderous falls beyond my balcony. “He wants to do this, Thranduil,” Eldôr said. “As he has always done before.”

“I know,” I said softly. “I will not keep him from it and neither will his mother. She spoke of his destiny long ago. It is his time now.”

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

The morning Legolas would leave, every memory I had rose to the surface and flowed through me with great emotion. On this day, Êlúriel and I would stand before the gates of Mirkwood to say farewell to our son.

The walk to the gates seemed far too long and too quick. When I stepped into the first light of day, I could see Legolas with Elenadar, Elenatar, Tarthôn and Aruilos. They would escort Legolas to Rivendell and Tarthôn would return on his brother’s horse. When Legolas saw me, he ran to me. I could see the little boy he had been behind the elven prince he had become. His life was his own to live beyond what I had given him.

“I am ready, Father. Mother,” he said.

“I am not, I am afraid,” I said. “But you are no longer a child.”

“I remember many things,” Legolas said. “But none so wonderful as being your son.”

I could not say anything. I was aged, yet youth had not left my face or my stature diminished. It would be the same for most of the elves of Arda. Looking into the face of my son, I could see many things. I saw the newborn in my arms and now I was sending a man into a world that had yet to find itself at peace.

“I have done many things in my life, Legolas,” I began. “There are things I long to remember and things I wish to forget. I was given many things in my life. Born to a king, I became one. I loved the most beautiful of creatures and she gave me my greatest treasure. You. I have not always been the best of fathers, but I was given the best of sons. I am the King of Mirkwood, but I am first and always your father. That is my crowning glory. Return to us, Legolas.”

He embraced me and smiled. I knew I was crying. I knew that behind me on this day stood an kingdom watching the heir to its throne leave for Rivendell. I did not care what anyone thought–I was once again losing a part of my heart to this world that had taken from me so much.

“I will return, Ada,” he said smiling. “Nothing will keep me from you.”

I was taken by those words as they were what I had said once a long time ago to Êlúriel the night before I left for war. It was a promise I kept.

Êlúriel embraced him as tears rolled down her face.

“I am proud of you, my little Greenleaf,” she said.

Isílriel was next to embrace her brother.

“What will I do without you,” she asked.

“If I know my sister, you will get on without me for awhile,” he said. “Look after our family, Isílriel. Especially Tarthôn. Do not tell him I said that.”

She laughed and as she released Legolas and we watched him walk away.

I smiled. Fëaluin looked at me curiously.

“Why do you look at me, Fëaluin,” I asked. “Do I amuse you?”

“You have become the king your father always knew you would be.” 

Legolas mounted his horse. Elenadan and Elenatar would escort him to Rivendell. I watched my son ride away until I saw him no more. As the dusk began to fall upon Mirkwood, I knew that Legolas would return and my kingdom and all of Arda would be changed forever.”––TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil (EXT. VER.) by J. Marie Miller 12-08-17

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.