Jaynaé Marie

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

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

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

“Who will lead them,” Nimlos asked.

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

Tarthôn looked at me and nodded.

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

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

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

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

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

“Oh no,” he whispered.

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

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

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

“Even in Mithlond,” Sûlrandír said.

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

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

“We did not come alone,” Sîrandor said.

“We came together, Sîrandor,” Sílrandor said.

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

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

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

“Êlenuil,” Ardôr said.

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

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

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

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

I motioned for Tatháron to come. He came quickly.

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

He bowed and left quickly.

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

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

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

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

As the room emptied, Tarthôn stood before me.

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

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

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

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

“No,” he said.

“Do as I ask, Tarthôn,” I said.

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

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

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

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

“Yes, Êlenuil,” I said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Yes,” he said.

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

“Anything,” he said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Elranduil,” Eldôr said.

Nimlos laughed as he stood before me.

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

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

“Thranduil,” Eldôr said looking over a scroll.

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

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

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

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

Nimlos and Fëaluin laughed as Elmîr entered.

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

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

“Thank you, Elmîr,” I said.

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

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

“Yes, Thranduil,” he said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Nimlos,” I cried. “Where are you?”

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

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

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

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

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

“I thought you had fallen,” I said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“What happened,” I asked.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He walked to the door and paused for a moment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Was not,” she said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Êlúriel, I love you,” I whispered.

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

“That is not possible,” I said.

She leaned over and kissed me again.

“Welcome home,” she said.

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

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

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

Beneath the waning sky of coming night

Far away shines a distant light

One whose rise tells of days gone by

Of all of elven memories lie.

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

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

“Yes, Êlenuil,” I answered. “Speak.”

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

“And you saw them away,” I asked.

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

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

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

“Alone.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“No,” he said. “Nana told me.”

“Your Nana told you,” I asked.

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

“The queen said this,” I asked.

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

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

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

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

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

He looked at me and embraced me.

“Will I see you tomorrow,” he asked.

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

He climbed down and ran out of my study.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Hello, uncle,” I said. “Pardon me.”

“She is in your chambers,” he said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“You are unrelenting, Êlúriel,” I said.

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

I gave Êlúriel my best look of skepticism.

“You do not believe me,” she asked.

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

She laughed softly.

“Did she,” she asked.

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

“No,” she whispered. “Nothing.”

We kissed again—forgetting the world around us.

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

“I am not,” she said smiling.

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

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

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

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

“Where is the queen,” Findôl asked.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“And her sister,” Fëaluin said smiling.

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

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

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

Eldôr poked Elranduil in the arm and glared at him.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Call for Arnîn,” Nimlos said.

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

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

“They were attacked,” Sîrandír answered.

“Orcs, again,” I asked.

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

“Were you there,” I asked.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The four cousins stepped away from each other slowly.

“Sorry, Grandfather,” they said together.

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

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

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

Mae Govannen–Na Rivendell (Ringarë, 3018)

“Into Rivendell I rode with escorts–Tarthôn, Aruilos and the twin sons of Fëaluin, Elenadar and Elenatar. To see for the first time the home of Lord Elrond and the elves of Rivendell; they were as much a myth to the Woodland Elves we were to them.

“Rivendell,” Elenadar said in awe. “More magnificent than I could imagine.”

“Mae Govannen,” a voice said. There before us stood an elf of tremendous majesty and at his side was a beautiful elleth with the longest dark hair with eyes as the stars.

“Mae govannen na Rivendell, Legolas Lasgalen Thranduilion”, she said as we dismounted and bowed to them.

“Thank you, Lord Elrond,” I said. “To you as well, Arwen.”

“It is good to see you have come to us safely,” Elrond said as he motioned to another elf. “Erestor, send word to Thranduil that his son has arrived in good health.”

“Yes, Lord Elrond,” he answered. “I shall send it by Elladan and Elrohir as Glorfindel has yet to return.”

“How is it in Mirkwood,” Arwen asked. “I have heard many things.”

“If they are good, then you have heard well,” I answered. “I miss home as we speak, but I know I will see it again.”

“More twins,” a tall elf with long dark hare and striking features. Beside him stood another identical to him.

“Elladan,” Elrond said with a glance. 

“They are Elenadar and Elenatar, sons of Fëaluin, my father’s high council,” I said.

“Im Elrohir,” Elladan’s brother said to them. “A gwanunig nîn, Elladan. Díhena. I know what to say to your father as well.”

“Tell all of Mirkwood we have come into Rivendell safely,” Tarthôn said smiling. “Tell them we were graciously met by Lord Elrond himself.”

The twins nodded and went on their way.

“Come, then,” Elrond said. “You must been need of food and drink. There is plenty for all.”

We followed Lord Elrond and Arwen away to our quarters before dinner.”–The Kingdom of the Woodland Realm Trilogy: Writings by J.M. Miller 9-13-16

Legolas arrives in Rivendell and greeted by Elrond and his family--his sons and his daughter, Arwen.

Chapter I: A Love Beyond Time (Pt. I)

“Legolas was gone—the son Êlúriel had given me and I tried desperately to protect from the world was now in that world vowing to save it from the shadow that had returned. I spent the days after his departure tortured with thoughts of losing him in many ways. It was not until Tarthôn and Aruilos returned from Rivendell safely did I find peace.

As I stood with Ëariâth waiting for Tarthôn with their daughter, Aradúlin, I began to notice how time had passed—Aradúlin had become a strikingly beautiful elven maiden with long deep golden red hair and grey eyes. She had been wed to Elendôr not long after his brother Êlenuil had wed Súlelenth and was the mother of a son named Aranduil—named for me and his great-grandfather Elranduil.

My household had grown but none would come from me. Legolas had left Mîráre behind and she became so distraught, her sister Ninyáre could not console her. In sadness, she left Mirkwood with her mother, Tárwen for Mithlond. As I was my father’s only heir, Legolas was mine but I knew he would never sit on the throne.

“Have you seen Súlelenth,” Aradúlin asked. “I have not seen her for two days, nor have I seen Êlenuil. What do I tell Nenduîl and Tárimë?”

“They went to see her family in Dale,” Ëariâth answered. “They should return before too long. They have Aranduil to keep them company.”

I said nothing—for Êlenuil and Súlelenth had gotten my blessing to leave. Ardôr wanted them to stay, but kept his objections to himself. I knew Elranduil had spoken to him as he had grown fond of Súlelenth as she reminded both of us of Êlúriel.

When we saw Tarthôn and Aruilos riding toward us with Elenadar and Elenatar, the mood brightened. As stable hands came for the horses, his wife and daughter met Tarthôn. Aruilos approached me and bowed.

“Your Majesty,” he said. “All is well. Elrond sends his gratitude.”

“How was it there,” I asked. “Was it as beautiful as they say?”

“Very much so,” he said. “We were fortunate to have met Elrohir and Elladan. You can imagine the trouble with having Elenadar and Elenadar present. I would think having two sets of twins did not sit well with Erestor or Lindir.”

“Well, then,” I said smiling. “It was best they left their sons with us. Four pairs would have driven them mad. Nimlos waits for you in the study.”

He smiled and bowed as he made his way into the palace with his sister and mother. Tarthôn came to me quietly and stood before me, looking down.

“What is the matter, Tarthôn,” I asked. “Do you miss Legolas already?”

“I do,” he said. “But I worry how you will do without him here, Ada.”

“I will do as well as I can,” I said. “But you are still here and we will both greet him together when he returns.”

He looked up and smiled. Even now, so many years after he was left in my care, he felt I did not love him as much as Legolas. Unlike Orísil, he never quite felt a part of the family.

“Tarthôn,” I began. “Did you by chance see Elrond’s daughter while you were there?”

“Yes,” he answered. “As beautiful as it has been said. She is very much taken with Aragorn. I did not see him until the day we were to leave. There had come another man and one they call Gandalf and one of the dwarves that had come here before.”

We started into the palace through the gates. I was curious about the dwarves—I remembered the ones I had met after the battle of Dale and had wondered about them.

“Tell me more,” I said. “I am intrigued.”

“I believe his name was Glóin,” he said. “I recall he was there with his son Gimli. But there was a rather old creature there. He was there when we had arrived. He seemed rather fond of looking at Legolas from a distance as to have known him.”

When we entered my study, the entire council was in attendance.

“Aruilos, what was the name of that creature,” Tarthôn asked. “I seemed to have forgotten.”

“You mean the Hobbit,” he answered. “His name was Bilbo Baggins from the Shire.”

I stopped and found myself smiling—thinking about my little friend. To know he was still alive made me happy, though I wondered why he was so far from his home.

“As long as Legolas made it safely to Rivendell,” Fëaluin said. “That is what matters.”

“Yes, it is,” Ardôr said sternly. “I am happy for my dear cousin, Fëaluin. But it has been two days and I have not heard from my son. Perhaps we should have sent with him some protection. He is, after all, a Prince of the Realm.”

“You could have gone with him,” Eldôr said. “Or sent Elendôr along with him. The distance is not far.”

“But he is among Men,” Ardôr growled. “I am sure they would do a great deal more to my son than would the Elves in Rivendell.”

“We have never had issue with Dale or Esgaroth,” Elranduil said. “You are making far too much of this.”

“He is my son, Ada,” he said. “I have every right to make anything of this that I please. Had you not let that girl marry my son, he would be here.”

“How do you know this,” I asked. “You cannot keep him from loving whom he will. As it is, she is not entirely of Men. What little of her that is elven I would think even you would approve.”

“It is very little,” he said. “Do not think I do not remember my Queen. I was young, but I remember her. What little elven my son’s wife has inherited from our Queen and your wife is far too little for me to approve.”

I could see Nimlos growing angry.

“Nimlos,” Fëaluin said, touching his arm. “Not here.”

Eldôr and Elranduil were embarrassed and felt ashamed. I knew they thought I would do something reprehensible.

“That was cruel of you to say, Brother,” Orísil whispered.

I walked slowly toward Ardôr. When I was before him, he seemed defiant though I knew he was frightened.

“Do not ever speak of my wife or her family in that manner in my presence ever again,” I said calmly. “What remains of your Queen and my wife is in this room and part of this family. Your words dishonor her and this kingdom. Do not think I will not hesitate to free you from this world and dispatch you quickly to the Halls of Mandos and think of you no more.”

I walked out of the room as I felt my own anger rising. In the hall is where I saw Êlenuil and Súlelenth approaching. She smiled at me but I could see she was not well.

“Súlelenth, you do not look well,” I said.

“He is right,” Êlenuil said, touching her face. “You are rather warm.”

“I am fine, Êlenuil,” she said. “I want to see my children.”

Those were the last words she would say outside of her chambers. She collapsed into Êlenuil’s arms.

“Súlelenth,” he cried loudly, bringing everyone out of the study.

“Send for Nenloth and Nimlúin,” Fëaluin said. “Nimlos, help Êlenuil take her to her room. Elranduil, find Linurial. She is with Ardúin.”

I could not move—I felt all the pain I had for Êlúriel return to me as I watched Súlelenth taken away.

“Do not worry, Thranduil,” Elranduil said. “Perhaps she is just be exhausted from traveling.”

“Send for her family,” Eldôr told Elendôr. “Take your brother with you.”

“And Elenadar and Elenatar,” Fëaluin added. “Night is falling and you will need to return before sunrise.”

“I will see to Nenduîl and Tárimë,” Orísil said. He turned to Ardôr. “You should do as much, Brother. Should something happen to their mother, your words will not be forgotten by those that heard them.”

Ardôr looked at me then slowly followed Orísil and Tarthôn away. I left for my chambers—I feared what I might learn of Súlelenth’s condition. I could not bear to think of losing any more of Êlúriel than I had. Legolas was gone and now his cousin—his mortal cousin he had grown to love—would be taken from us. Perhaps this time my grief would be heard and I would be taken with her.

I lay on my bed looking at the ceiling above. What seemed to me a lifetime was no more than a few hours when my chamber doors opened and Nenduîl and Tárimë stood beside me. They were in their night clothes—still in their youth but slightly taller than before.

“We came to see you,” Tárimë said. “Nana said you were not well.”

“Your mother is well,” I asked, sitting. “She is not ill?”

“She is ill,” Nenduîl said climbing into bed and sitting on one side of me as his sister sat on the other. “She told us to come see you. She said you were sad.”

“I am worried about your mother,” I said.

“Do you have a mother,” Tárimë said, curling up next to me.

“Yes, I do,” I said. “She is far away right now.”

“Do you miss her,” Nenduîl asked. “I will miss my Nana.”

“Yes, I miss my mother,” I said thinking about her. “She was the Queen of Eryn Galen. She was the most beautiful Queen in all of Arda.”

“Nana says so,” Tárimë said yawning. “She says her mother saw her once with her favorite cousin.”

“Longest hair as white as snow,” Nenduîl said, laying his head down on my lap. “Almost to the ground.”

“Yes, it was,” I said. “Your mother told you this?”

“Yes,” Tárimë said sleepily. “Her mother told her when she was a child.”

“She told her all about the Queen,” Nenduîl said, yawning.

“Queen Nimeithel,” I said softly. “My mother.”

“Queen Êlúriel,” Tárimë said. “Queen Êlúriel, too.”

“You were named for her, Tárimë,” Nenduîl said. “I was named for you.”

“I do not understand,” I said as tears had begun to fall.

“I am Tárimë Silme,” Tárimë said falling asleep. “He is Nenduîl Nárisil.”

“Starlight and Fire Moon,” Nenduîl said and drifted off to sleep with his sister.

Once I knew they were sleeping soundly, I pulled away from them gently and tucked them in. I knew that Êlúriel had come back to me.”–Excerpt from TKWR:BIII To Eryn Lasgalen by J.M.Miller 7-17-16

Chapter I: A Love Beyond Time. Book III of The Kingdom of the Woodland Realm Trilogy. Thranduil is happy Legolas made it to Rivendell safely. He confronts Ardôr, son of Elranduil over words he said about Súlelenth. She falls ill and her children, Nenduîl and Tárimë comfort him with a shocking revelation. They were named after him and Êlúriel--the girl is Tárimë Silme (Starlight) and the boy is Nenduîl Nárisil (Fire Moon).

Chapter XVII: A Time Before Darkness (Pt. IV)

As I held council one evening in my study, life in the kingdom seemed to return to a sense of routine.Years had passed since the war and I had begun to restore my kingdom after many losses. I had started to become accustomed to being king; wearing the crown my father once wore. I had the most beautiful queen and raising two sons. Everything seemed as it should.

There were days when I longed for my father to come into the door and chastise me for anything. With my mother long since passed into the Undying Lands with her sister and many others, Eryn Galen was foreign to me beneath the vaulted wood carved ceilings.

Fëaluin stood beside me as always—true to his word and duty. Finëar carried on his duties—if only for his loyalty to my father and to keep himself to task and forget the pains of his loss of his only daughter, Sinomë.

Nimlúin, her daughter with her husband Fínduin, brother of Fëaluin whom died on the battlefield had begun to grow into a beautiful little elf.  Finëar spent as much time with her as he could for she reminded him of his Sinomë.

“I know you want to make a change in council,” Finëar said while reading. “It would be a good thing. Might I suggest Elmîr, Aramír and Aramoth as well.”

“Very well,” I said. “And with whom shall we find cover the borders of the North and South?”

“Nînuir has suggested Aldáros,” Fëaluin. “One of many orphaned by the war. He has come of age and quite a formidable warrior. There is also Randúmîr.”

“Fine,” I said. “They are still young. Do you think them ready for such a task?”

“Nimlos has the upmost faith in his abilities,” he answered. “And I myself have seen their skills. Swift with a bow and quick with a sword.”

“Good,” I said anxiously preparing to be with Êlúriel. “It that all for this day, then?”

“Yes, Thranduil,” Finëar said. He began looking down curiously on the floor. “I believe so. Thranduil, there seems to be something crawling beneath your table.”

I looked down to see a very familiar little elven child crawling swiftly toward me. I picked him up.

“Legolas, I see you have found your way into your father’s study.” He looked at me, his golden hair disheveled, falling around his face. He gave me a smile and pointed toward the door.

Peeking from behind was Ardôr, Tarthôn, Orísil, Elenadar and Elenatar.

“Enter,” Fëaluin said. They entered quickly and stood fearfully against the wall. “To what do we owe this visit, sons?”

“It was Elenadar’s fault, Father,” Elenatar began pointing at his twin. “He lost Legolas.”

“I did not,” Elenadar exclaimed. “I was looking after Tarthôn when he got away. It was your fault.”

“Tarthôn was with me,” Orísil said. “All the time.”

“They lost Aruilos,” Ardôr giggled.

“Who is looking after Nimlúin,” Finëar asked worried.

“Mother,” the twins said together.

“Tarthôn,” I asked. “Why are you not in your chambers with Legolas?”

“I am not tired,” he said. “Nana said we can stay with you tonight.”

“Yes,” Legolas said as he played with a lock of my hair.

“Oh, did she,” I answered. “Êlúriel, come in here, if you will.”

She entered my study slowly without a word but a smile. I handed her Legolas.

“I think I shall take my leave, Thranduil,” Fëaluin said. “Boys, come.”

“Tomorrow, then,” Finëar said. “I shall have Aldáros and Randúmîr in audience in the morning.” He bowed and left just as his wife entered the room.

“Your Majesties,” Nenduriel said. “I have been looking everywhere for those two. You realize this is far more than I can handle.”

“And you thought Elranduil and me were terrible,” I said.

“I was speaking of Elranduil and you, Thranduil.” Êlúriel handed Legolas to her as Ardôr, Tarthôn and Orísil obediently walked to her quietly. “I was rather hoping to have better luck with your offspring.”

As she left with my children, I tried hard not to laugh.

“So, how is my husband, this evening,” Êlúriel asked, putting her arms around my waist. I gently pushed her away and walked to my balcony.

“Êlúriel, why do you encourage our sons to stay with us so often? I think Tarthôn is well old enough to remain in his chambers as with Legolas.”

“I do not encourage them,” she said following me. “They ask it of me and how can I deny them?”

“Simple,” I said smiling. “You say no.”

“No? You can say no to your sons just like that?”

“Yes,” I said. “I love them but it is becoming rather crowded in our bed. And I cannot be with you, Êlúriel. Not when there are two little obstructions in my way.”

“But, Thranduil,” she began, looking sad. “I feel terrible if I cannot be with them should something happen.”

“That is what Nenduriel is there for, my dear,” I said sternly. “She has been doing this since I was born. I think she is well capable of her task.”

“And I am not,” she began angrily. “Am I not a good mother?”

“This has nothing to do with motherhood, Êlúriel, “I began. “Elranduil warned me of this. How long did it take for Ardúin to allow Ardôr and Orísil to remain with her? Orísil is nearly as tall as Fëaluin’s sons now.”

“This is has everything to do with motherhood, Thranduil.”

“You are a wonderful mother. I just would like to have some time with my wife. Am I asking too much?“

“Thranduil, please,” she said. "You are acting more like a child than Legolas.”

“I apologize,” I said angrily. “It would appear you have forgotten how he got here. Sadly, I have not.”

Êlúriel glared at me with a fierce look.

“Is that all I am to you, Thranduil,” she asked. “It that all you want from me?”

“Oh, do not begin this again,” I said. “You know that is not all I want from you. If it were, I would be quite disappointed as I have not seen it for some time.”

“I beg your pardon,” she asked. “You grow more petulant by the day. They are our children, Thranduil.”

“I know my children well. How can I not? I see them every morning and every night. Do not make this about them. This is about us having some time to ourselves, Êlúriel.”

“What do you call this,” she said callously. “This is time. Not what I would have liked but I was not granted an audience with His Majesty.”

“Êlúriel,” I started. What is the matter with you? You know you do not have to ask for an audience. Why do you say such things to me? I do not need this right now.”

She looked at me as she were about to cry. I couldn’t help but hold her. I loved her more than life.

“I apologize, Thranduil,” she said softly. “I want so much for Tarthôn to feel loved. And Legolas adores him so.”

“Tarthôn feels loved,” I said. “I assure you he knows he is loved. Both of them know we love them. But, Êlúriel, I do not want two grown sons in my bed some day lying between me and my wife.”

She started laughing.

“Thranduil, you are being ridiculous,” she said looking at me. “You honestly think I would keep them there that long?”

“Yes. From the looks of it, I fear one day their wives will join us as well.”

She kissed me tenderly.

“Not even I would want to wait that long to be with my husband,” she said. “Though there are times when you can be as much a handful as they are.”

“How would you know,” I asked pulling her closer to me. “You have not had to handle me for so some time.”

We began to kiss again. It felt like an eternity since we had been so passionate. Our lips parted and I still felt her breath escape me.

“Does this mean the boys have to stay in their chambers for the night,” she asked.”

“If it is what you wish, I will have Nenduriel bring them to us.” She kissed me again.

“No,” she said. “I think tonight they should be fine, Thranduil. Yes. They should be fine.”

As we kissed, it was as wonderful as it always since the first time. We were lost in each other again and I never wanted to be found.

“I love you, Êlúriel,” I said. “I love you so much.”

“I love you, too,” she said. “I need you right now.”

“Good,” I said, kissing her again. “I need you as well.”

We did not make it to our chambers but in the morning, two familiar faces were looking down at us.

“What are you doing, Ada,” Tarthôn asked confused with Legolas at his side.

“On the floor,” Legolas asked. “Ada and Nana are down there, Tarthôn. Why?“

“That is a very good question,” a voice said from across the room. It was Elranduil. “Boys, off to breakfast. Ardôr and Orísil await you.”

“Did you find Aruilos,” Tarthôn asked.

“Yes we did. Eventually. Off with you both.”

The boys left quickly.

“I cannot wait to speak of this with Ardúin,” he said smiling, leaning the table. “And you know she is going to tell everyone.“

“Elranduil, now,” I said. He left us alone, laughing out the doors. Êlúriel kissed me.

“I would to like request an audience, with His Majesty, if I may?”

I lightly pushed her as she began laughing.

“Request denied,” I said.

It would be one of the last times I would ever hold my wife in my arms again.”–Excerpt from TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil by J.M.Miller 6-6-16

Mothers and their children. Êlúriel wants to keep Legolas and Tarthôn close. Thranduil wants time with his wife. As another elf is introduced (named after my cousin that died recently in Sindarin), the boys of the court are growing up quickly and love to play. Elenadar and his twin Elenatar, sons of Fëaluin, Aruilos, son of Nimlos, Ardôr and Orísil, sons of Elranduil and of course, Legolas and Tarthôn. There are little girls, too, but today belongs to the mischievous antics of Thranduil and Êlúriel and the boys before the time of shadow returns again. Be prepared. There will be a parade of action and dwarves coming--including one from Ered Luin whose two sons will fight with their uncle Thorin in the battle of the Five Armies. 😏 There lies secrets beneath the forest--as book ii comes to an end. Book III will answer some.