Jaynaé Marie

“Brutal is the wind that blows that attempts to hold us back. Since there was time it has tried to keep us from our fight against its fury. Many have fallen, but far more remained. On this day, we fight to end that which returns to destroy this world and all within it. We began this journey together and none but us can see it to its end. There can be no wind to blow against us now for we have found our strength. In alliance with Men, Elves and Dwarves, we end this now and end it forever.”–Lord Elrond to the Alliance (Ch. XIII, Bk. II: The Saga of Thranduil)

I’d be lying if I didn’t say I am anxious to get back to work—especially with the Elves of the First Age and Thranduil’s ancestors. And more Elrond...I hope I can have everything in my old laptop put into a time capsule—some things I couldn’t get on cloud. I do have the entire TKWR Trilogy with changes right now, so that’s good.

Newsfeed #36 March 31, 2016

Sorry For the Delay: Sick Leave without Warning

I had an emergency sick leave I was not made aware so I was caught off guard. But I will continue writing until surgery then after it–like hours because it is very hard to stay away from Thranduil.

Chapter XII is coming later–as it was being edited when sick leave came, so now I have a few moments to move ahead. I am thinking perhaps to put up as many chapters I have before I surgery so I while I am away, Thranduil’s readers will have caught up–this means there will be another informational newsfeed at some point involving the Appendix of Characters because they will continue to grow as Book III begins as well as in Book I.

For now, we are about to march to Dagorlad for battle with Sauron’s forces.

“The Alliance of Men and Elves with Dwarves along beside Armies march off to war together where Sauron doth reside The shadows of Mordor rise above the armored clad As the Men, Elves and Dwarves march on to Dagorlad.”–J.

Okay, so this was the shortest blog. But it is hard to stay away from Thranduil even sick, I love his story so much. You grow to love his friends and his annoying cousin Elranduil. And I adore his wife Êlúriel--whom he is away from right now and it's bothering me as much as it bothers him because they are so cute together.☺️

Newsfeed #35 March 23, 2016

On this day: The very beginnings of an epic take shape

The War of the Last Alliance will begin soon and some will wonder a few things: why are their dwarves and why is Thranduil there?

First of all, the dwarves were there and so was Thranduil. His father Oropher died in this war, making him the King of what will become Mirkwood (Tolkien readers who read the Silmarillion know this was corrected in the Unfinished Tales, as Mirkwood does not become “Mirkwood” for some time after this war and around that time the dwarves are driven from Moria to Erebor and other places).

We have a minor description of Thranduil’s thoughts on this and little else: “But there was in Thranduil’s heart a still deeper shadow. He had seen the horror of Mordor and could not forget it. If ever he looked South its memory dimmed the light of the sun. And though he knew that it was now broken and deserted and under the vigilance of the kings of men, fear spoke in his heart that was not conquered for ever: it would rise again.”—p. 259 Unfinished Tales (J.R.R. Tolkien)

Eventually, the question will become how I gleaned from this what is described in TKWR? That was months of studying maps, ancient warfare down to actually spending a few days with little toy soldiers lined up based on vague descriptions. If I learned anything it was that something always lies beneath it all.

Eventually, I will have to reintroduce you to everyone in the first chapters–and more so those in this war. As the story goes on, I have to use my own appendix of characters alongside Tolkien’s to keep up, so I know the trouble following has begun. It had to–I just added three men from Arnor and Gondor and two elves in the past week. And that is just for this war. Everything will come in due course.–J.

Welcome Back to Middle Earth. 😏

Chapter XI: The Alliance of Elves, Men and Dwarves (Pt. III)

“I was grateful for the dawn as the night left me in fear of my own thoughts. As we prepared to return to the tent of the high king, Arísil arrived with Eldôr and Aûrvar.

“I will not dispense with pleasantries,” Arísil said coldly. “There are none to be had in times of war, Your Highnesses. Come.”

Elranduil and Amroth slowly made their way out of the tent.

“Uncle, why does he come to us in this manner,” I asked Eldôr.  Aûrvar laughed as Arísil looked agitated.

“Thranduil, please,” he said quietly. “It is your duty as Oropher’s heir.”

“I know who I am. Does he know who I am?”

“Many apologies,” Arísil said bowing. “Forgive me for my hastiness.”

I took up my sword and followed Elranduil and Amroth into the day as my uncle, Arísil and Aûrvar followed us. He and Eldôr caught up to us as Arísil had stopped to speak with one of the men in the nearby encampment.

“If my brother had seen that,” Aûrvar began. “He would have been proud.”

“He is advisor to Gil-galad,” Eldôr said. “He is one of the few Noldor left in Arda. I would ask you to keep peace, Thranduil. So would your father.”

“Father does not like him much,” Amroth said. “He can be somewhat overbearing.”

“He is,” Elranduil began. “I am afraid I missed it through his overwhelming sense of self importance.”

“Please,” Eldôr begged stopping us. “We are in perilous times. I know this is not where you wish to be but we are here and we must attempt to come together.”

“Yes, father,” Elranduil said. “I will try. We will all make an effort.”

“You should have a word with my brother Jári, Eldôr,” Aûrvar said. “He could benefit from your wisdom.”

“For that, you would need a Maiar,” Eldôr said. “Or a miracle.” As he walked away, we looked at one another and broke into laughter.

“I see you are all in good spirits,” Arísil said coming toward us with the man he had spoken to earlier. “If I may, this is Mãndil, from Gondor.”

Mãndil was tall with brown hair and sharp green eyes. He bowed to us.

“It is a pleasure to meet you all,” he said kindly.

“He will join us this day,” Arísil said. “For we leave for Dagorlad at first light.”

He motioned to us and we made our way to the tent of the high king. As we entered, I saw most of the commanders. My father and the others were not present.

“Where is my father,” I asked.

“He will join us momentarily,” Arísil said smiling. “Do not worry, Your Highness.”

As I moved toward him to strike, my father entered with Gil-galad, Elrond, Elendil and Durin.

“Son,” my father said, standing before me whispering. “I know how you feel. Believe me. It is fine. Calm yourself.”

He joined the leaders of the Alliance behind the table and the rest of us took a place.

“Where is Isildur,” Mãndil asked Adanor. “Should he not be here?”

“I have not seen him,” Adanor said. “Not since last evening.”

“I saw him last staring off into the night toward Mordor,” Jári answered. “He did not look well to me.”

“I shall go see after him,” Brendîr said, rising. As he was about to leave, Isildur arrived. “I was about to come for you, Your Majesty.”

“There was no need, as you can see,” Isildur said. “I do apologize for my tardiness. I see Mãndil has come. What news of you of my brother?”

“His Majesty is doing what he can with what little reinforcements he has at his disposal,” Mãndil said cautiously. “The army grows weary but has lost none of its strength. The arrival of the Alliance will bring much needed help in the defeat of Sauron.”

“Good,” Isildur said and sat down next to Elendil and said no more. I noticed Glorfindel seemed unusually quiet, but his face seemed to show discernment with Isildur’s demeanor.

“It has been decided that upon our arrival,” Elrond began. “The men cover Gondor directly from the west. The elves and dwarves shall take positions north to east. Archers will cover from the rear positions of our guard and shield. We shall lead our charges.”

We sat in crushing silence—our faces stoic. I could hear the beating of my heart growing louder. In two days hence, I could be dead. I took hold of the chain Êlúriel had given me with her wedding ring on it. I wondered if I would ever see her again. I would ride into battle as a Prince of Eryn Galen beside my father—into the very heart of evil.”–Excerpt from TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil by J.M.Miller 3-23-16

So it begins--the plan are lain and Thranduil prepares to march into battle with his father and childhood friends. Into Mordor.😔

Chapter XI: The Alliance of Elves, Men and Dwarves (Pt. II)

“Nothing will be settled tonight,” Elendil said. “But my son languishes in Gondor and something must be done.”

“Yes, of course,” Elrond agreed. “I trust our commanders will come to us something expeditiously.”

“My Lord,” Arísil said rising. “If it pleases you, allow the elves to begin tonight as the others find their rest.”

Immediately, Jári leapt up from his seat and confronted him sternly.

“I take offense to that,” he scolded. “I have marched for days without a moment’s rest and still took down some of those wretched orcs.”

“Jári, calm yourself,” King Durin said softly. “He is right. We need to rest before we can come together.”

“Let it be at first light, then,” Gil-galad said. “You are all dismissed, save the high council.”

We all rose, and bowed and made our way out the tent. As we walked to our camp, the night had a relative calm—as any other night I could remember. Without a word, we took our places upon our cots. Some spoke to one another in whispers. I thought about Êlúriel. I closed my eyes and thought of her face, her hair and her smile. I wondered what she was doing.

“I am thinking of you,” I heard her voice say. I opened my eyes and sat up. Elranduil sat across from me reading. He looked up for a moment.

“Something amiss, Thranduil,” he asked. “You look worse than usual.”

“Did you say something?”

“Not that I can recall,” he said. “I have been reading.”

“Honestly,” I asked. “I know you can hear my thoughts.”

“I wish I could not,” he said. “But fortunately, you were not thinking.”

“I was thinking,” I said. “About Êlúriel. And she spoke to me.”

“If you say, I will not disagree, cousin. May I return to my book or is there something else you wished to ask me?”

I shook my head and lay back down as Elranduil returned to reading. I closed my eyes again wondering if madness of being away from Êlúriel was from what I was suffering. Sounds faded away and I seemed to drift off into a forest dressed in princely silver on a clear autumn day. I soon realized it was not me, but a young elf with golden hair and a face much like Êlúriel’s only with my eyes. He paused and looked at me and smiled.

“Atolathon, Ada,” he said. “Atolathon.”

He smiled again and disappeared as quickly as he appeared. I dared not open my eyes for I longed to see him again but all there was darkness and a pale moon casting eerie shadows through leafless trees and a figure in white. It was Êlúriel. She came to me—eyes full of light, her hair falling around her. I could feel her skin and as I kissed her, I felt her sweet lips against mine. Before long something changed. When I released her, she her eyes were empty, and her skin began to wither.  She fell and there was nothing left but her dress. As I reached to touch it, it turned as white dust and blew away in the breeze.

“Êlúriel,” I yelled. “Where are you? Êlúriel?”

As I called, another figure approached. It was the young elf from before only he was no longer smiling.

“You must come home,” he said. “You will come home.”

“Yes, I will,” I said. “Tell me who you are.”

“You know who I am,” he said. “You know who I am.”

He walked away and I was alone. Opened my eyes and sat up. I was alone in the tent. I must have missed something. I went to the opening, but night was still upon us. I did not understand what I was seeing or hearing.

“Visions, Thranduil,” I heard someone say.  I looked to see Fëaluin standing against one of the tent posts. “You are seeing things.”

“Why,” I asked. “What do they mean?”

“I cannot say what they mean,” he answered. “But if you are having them, it is for a reason only your heart can say.”

“Some were pleasant but some were not,” I said. “I gained one thing and lost another.”

“Then so shall it be,” he said. “For soon the same will happen to us all. From that field of battle, will come away with less of ourselves, I fear. Nothing will be the same again, Thranduil.”–Excerpt from TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil by J.M.Miller 3-18-16

This is a darker moment in the life of Thranduil. Visions of his future. He will see Legolas but not know him. He will watch his wife fade to dust. The War of the Last Alliance is upon them.😱

Chapter XI: The Alliance of Elves, Men and Dwarves (Pt. I)

We spent most of the day on maneuvers and by the fall of night, as we rested from the day, a familiar call came to us.

“It is time,” Eldôr said quietly. “Your presence is required at the meeting of the Alliance.”

Nimlos and Elranduil eagerly made their way out of our tent with Fínduin not far behind. I rose slowly and made my way into the darkness with Melros, Fëaluin, Amroth and Elmîr. Eldôr followed in silence.

“It is such a beautiful night for such a solemn occasion,” Fëaluin remarked looking upon the men, elves and dwarves in their camps.

I noticed that night was unusually dark for the time of the year. The stars above seemed far brighter as to be watching what had grown to be thousands more warriors—dwarves and men had joined what once was a field full of elves. We said nothing as we continued toward the tent of the Gil-galad.

Upon our approach to the tent of Gil-galad, we stopped as an elf stood before us with a man. The ef was tall with long light golden hair and what appeared to be the grey eyes of the Sindar beneath the lantern light. The man had long hair as well, yet it was deep earthen color. His green eyes seemed to reflect a commanding, yet kind presence. Eldôr came forward and stood before us.

“Im Elenorn o Falas,” the elf said. “You must be Eldôr. This is Adanor, from Arnor.”

“Is everyone in attendance,” Eldôr asked. “Now that we have arrived?”

“Yes,” Adanor answered. “And I fear it will be a long evening.”

They turned and the guards opened pulled back the flaps of the brightly lit tent. It was quite large—it had to be for many had filled it. At a long table sat Gil-galad, Elrond, Círdan, Elendil, my father, Amdir, and Durin.

“Mae govannen,” Elrond said. “Allow me to introduce King Elendil and his son, Isildur. Elendil, have you met Thranduil, son of Oropher and Elranduil, son of Eldôr.”

“It is a pleasure,” Elendil said rising with his son standing not to far from where we had entered. “This is Isildur.

I noticed of the two men, the younger, Isildur seemed uncomfortable. His brown hair was disheveled around the nape of his neck and he said nothing as he looked around the room with an air of arrogance.

“The pleasure is ours, Your Majesty,” I said bowing. He had a gentle face with soft blue eyes and and aging brown hair. He motioned to the other man.

“Yes, you Highness,” Isildur said. “This is a pleasure.”

I noticed my father’s expression change drastically. I could see what issue he seemed to have with Isildur. He would keep these things to himself, for now was a time of alliance and there was no room for divisions—no matter our differences.

“Where is Brendîr and Arísil,” Amdir asked.

As we found a place to settle, two elves and the man I saw earlier in the day entered and bowed.

“I am here, Your Majesty,” Arísil said. “Many apologies for my lateness, for I just arrived from Lórien and Galdor and Brendîr were kind enough to bring me to you.”

Arísil, had long golden brown hair and eyes the color of the sea. His beauty outshined his companions tenfold. Galdor had golden hair as the halo of the sun with grey eyes. They found their places and so it began—the meeting of the alliance.

“Now we can begin as all are here,” Gil-galad said as he sat behind a great table and covered with maps and scrolls. All the rulers sat around him and their council behind. As for the rest of us, we gathered stood around the think fabric walls of the tent.

“You have long known what I think of this war,” Father began. “It will cover this world in the blood of this Alliance for generations, but this evil must be brought down or there will be no peace in Arda.”

“I agree,” said Durin. “And I have seen those demons grown in number from Moria. Their numbers are far greater than ours but nothing compares to Sauron’s greatest secret.”

“Secret,” Círdan asked. “What secret could he have that the elves have not known for centuries?”

“Have you not heard in the skies the pitched screams of dragons, Círdan, he asked. “That is not just a creature from the darkness that void from which evil rises. That is the servant of Sauron. The Witch King of Angmar.”

“We know well of that creature,” Elrond said. “For some time.”

“Perhaps but along the river Anduin ride the dark riders,” one dwarf said. His long golden white hair fell longer than the other dwarves and his beard as long. “They are under the command of evil to do its bidding.”

Suddenly, I remembered what Êlúriel had said to me. As a child she had seen men that seemed to be cast into a spell. They were souls lost to Sauron—once great kings, now doomed to do his bidding for eternity.

“You speak of the Úlairi, Andvári,” Elendil said quietly.

All feel quiet. Gil-galad and Círdan looked down at their hands for a moment. Glorfindel stepped forward. Amroth lowered his head.

“He has come for you,” Glorfindel said as he approached the kings. “Where is the Nenya?”

“With Galadriel in the West.” Amdir said. “We must defeat Sauron this time for nine kings are under the control of something that can control more than the mortal soul.”

“His power has no affect on the elves,” Círdan said.

“For now, for he has not the strength,” Amdir said. “But if we do not destroy that which he has created, Arda will lie in great peril. Ring or not. He is gaining much strength but we can destroy him for he has not reached his full power.“–Excerpt from the TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil by J.M.Miller 3-14-16

This is the hardest chapter to get through. I won't sugarcoat it. We have come to serious issues and deciding how much you are able to handle is hard to decide and put together.😕

Chapter X: The King Under the Mountain  (Pt. III)

“Morning came without much change from the day we had left Eryn Galen. We were miles away from the palace now—heading closer to the southern borders. Trees still swayed above us in a gentle breeze and birds sang their song under the sunless sky. My thoughts were not my own. I tried to think of Êlúriel but as we moved further to the forest’s end, my mind wandered.

Upon arriving at the borders, several of the marchwardens bowed as we rode into the clearing and out of the woodland realm. I did not have a moment’s thought when I realized we were out of the forest and into near barren land. It was an empty field as far as one could see. The trees were few but the ominous sight directly in our path stole what beauty there may have been.

“Mordor,” Elranduil said as he rode alongside me. “Still far from us but its evil I feel from here.”

We continued our journey for sometime before in the distance, a lone rider approached. Father motioned for us to stop. Amdir rode over to my father and whispered to him. As the rider grew closer, I noticed it was Glorfindel of Imaldris. Amroth came alongside me with a look of annoyance.

“I could think of anyone else to send save Glorfindel,” he said quietly as he approached and stopped before us.

“Your Majesties,” he said reverently. “We are but a half day’s ride to where Gil-galad and Elrond await.”

“And what of Círdan,” Amdir asked. “How long are to wait for him to come from the Falas?”

“He sent word ahead with Galdor to Elrond before his departure. He should one day hence.”

“Very well, then,” Father answered. “You are riding back with us I am to suppose?”

“If you wish,” Glorfindel said glancing at me and Elranduil.

“Glorfindel has found favor with Elrond,” Amroth whispered. “This surely must distract Erestor greatly for his demeanor can only tolerate so much incessant flattery. He is a brave sort, though.”

“When his lips are not moving, I would gather,” Elranduil whispered. Amroth tried to hide his amusement.

“I remember,” I said. “When he came to court, he did not impress Father. Though nothing impress King Oropher. I often think he was born difficult.”

Amroth smiled as father gave the command. As we began, Glorfindel rode to us and positioned his horse next to Amroth.

“His name is Asfaloth,” he said. “He moves swiftly when need be.”

“He is very handsome,” I said. It was the first thought that came to me. Elranduil tried not to laugh.

“Mine is Hîthuin,” Amroth said. “He moves swiftly as well. If need be.”

Elranduil looked at me and shook his head. I was grateful nothing more was said, but our ride together for the rest of the day was contentious at best. By dusk, we could see the camps of the great Noldorin Army. Lanterns lit a field like a makeshift palace. When we stopped, a lean, blonde elf with silver eyes approached us as we dismounted and squires took our horses. Upon closer notice, I realized there were men among the elves.

“The Men from the West,” Glorfindel said. “They rode with us from Imaldris. Most come from Arnor. The ones from Gondor we will meet on the field of battle.”

“Eldûmír, Galdúmîr,” father began. “Set up for the night. Eldôr, Finëar, Sírnên, remain. Where is Sildúr, Ninuir and Aradin?”

The three men approached swiftly, bowing to father as Amdir came forth and stood beside him.

“Nimlos, Melros, Elmîr, Fëaluin, Fínduin,” Galdúmîr called. “Túlelyë!”

They arrived just as we were approached by three elves. Before walked a tall elf with sharp eyes of glass and long dark hair. He approached my father with a warm smile.

“Mae govannen,” he said bowing. “I am Erestor of Imaldris. It is good to see you have had a safe journey.”

From behind him, graceful and noble elf with long brown hair and deep blue eyes walked over to my father and Amdir. He wore robes of gold and blue and upon his head, his crown of gold with a blue gem at it center.

“Oropher,” he said. “It has been many years since I have seen you. I have missed you. Amdir.”

“Gil-galad,” Father said. “Time has been good to you, my friend.”

“Perhaps under fairer circumstances, we could speak of better days,” Amdir said.

“Yes, Amdir,” Gil-galad answered and he motioned the last elf to him. “I am in agreement.”

The last elf came forward and bowed to father. His eyes crisp as day, soft long hair the color of newly tilled earth.

“Oropher,” the elf said. “It is a pleasure to see you once more. And you as well, Amdir.”

“For me as well, Elrond,” Father said as he motioned to me and Elranduil. “This is my son Thranduil, and my nephew Elranduil, son of Eldôr.”

At that moment, I wanted to disappear. I was standing before greatness—before the High Elven Kings of Arda; legends of childhood tales—and I was unremarkably small and without merit. I bowed quickly and stepped as far as I could between my father and Amdir. Elrond stepped forward to me.

“Thranduil, it is a pleasure,” Elrond said. “Come, Thranduil, Amroth, Elranduil. We should find this time to make acquaintance before tomorrow. Glorfindel. Crestor.“

“Erestor is quite serious,” Glorfindel whispered to me. “I must warn you.”

“Yes, he is, Glorfindel,” Elrond answered smiling. “I rather prefer him that way.”

Amroth laughed. We walked toward another of another tent and two guards bowed as we entered. A table covered in scrolls sat as its center with a few chairs placed around. Elrond offered us a seat as Erestor stood beside Elrond as he sat behind the table.

“What news have you from Moria,” Amroth asked impatiently. “Is it rumor or will the King Under the Mountain commit to battle?”

“You have never been one to be hesitant,” Elrond said. “It is true, Amroth. King Durin III will come on his word. You know well as I that he has been a good friend to the elves. Why would you question his loyalty?”

“I do not question his loyalty, Elrond,” he answered. “I question this war. Though there is need of it, when there are men, even King Durin may find reason for hesitation.”

“I have his word the king himself join us,” he said motioning to Glorfindel. “Bring him to me.”

Glorfindel left the tent. We sat around wondering whom would enter with Glorfindel upon his return. Soon, we had our answer. A short armor-clad dwarf appeared. It was obvious he was not royal, but a messenger, perhaps, sent ahead from Moria. His long brown hair was braided and his beard flowed down his face to his chest.

“Elrond,” he said. “I am impressed with the numbers of soldiers I see. This will please his Majesty.”

“Everyone,” Elrond said standing as the dwarf turned toward us. “This is Aûrvar of Khazâd-dûm. He is part of the Council of King Durin. The youngest, I believe.”

“You flatter me,” he said. “And who might I be looking at?”

We stood up. I felt odd being so much taller than this dwarf that was addressing us.

“I am Amroth, son of Amdir of Lorien,” Amroth said. “It is a pleasure.”

“I am Elranduil, son of Eldôr of Eryn Galen,” Elranduil said.

All eyes fell upon me. I was still fascinated by this creature and nearly forgot myself until he spoke to me.

“You must be Thranduil, son of Oropher, then,” Aûrvar said to me, bowing. “It is a pleasure.”

“You know of me,” I asked in awe. “How is that possible?”

“I may live under a Mountain, Your Highness, but I do come from beneath it quite often. I know Oropher quite well. And I know Meláze gave you a gift before your departure. Requested and generously given by King Durin himself.”

“Thank you,” I said looking at the ground.

“If I may,” Aûrvar asked turning toward Elrond. “I have yet to see Elendil or his son Isildur. Are they not with their men?”

“They are with Gil-galad, Amdir and Oropher. We await King Durin as well as Círdan.”

“They came with Elrond and Gil-galad,” Erestor answered. “There is time enough until then.”

“Well,” Aûrvar said finding a seat. “What is there to do until then? You realize that ahead of King Durin, Jári will come and he is not one for patience. I love him, but my brother can be a bit wily if you know what I mean.”

“Yes, I understand,” Elrond said smiling as he sat down. “But a good warrior stands ready to fight always.”

“He must have born ready,” Aûrvar said. “He has been fighting me since childhood.”

Everyone laughed and the tension had left. I found myself intrigued with this dwarf and wondered if there were others as jovial and wise.”–Excerpt from TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil by J.M.Miller 3-6-16

The first dwarf steps from under the mountain. Aûrvar the youngest of Durin's council of dwarves arrived ahead of his brother Jári and the King. Prior to this, Oropher and Amdir introduce the younger generation to the legendary Gil-galad and Elrond. As they await Círdan from the Falas, when all are ready, there will be a war.😳😱

Chapter IX: Last Days in Eryn Galen (Part IV)

Looming south of us beyond the southern borders of the Rhovanion was a faint orange glow that from it came a blackness that would fall upon Eryn Galen for centuries. My time in my kingdom was coming swiftly to an end. Soon I would leave to fight a war. Behind I would leave my mother, my wife and many faces and things that I grew up knowing.

As I stood looking out at the falling of evening my father approached me. Upon his face was a solemness I would never forget.

“There was a time I thought I this evil had fallen long behind me,” he said leaning against the rail beside me looking into Mordor. “I see that it was not to be.”

“It is not your doing, Father,” I said. “I just want to be here. In peace. As it was before.”

“It never was before, Thranduil. Your mother and I kept it from you as long is it was possible. We had hoped that you would never have to fight that which our kin have been fighting for generations in one form or another.”

All the years I had known my father, to hear him sound so unsure of anything worried me. Time seemed to have taken from him more than an ageless soul. His eyes seemed empty.

“I am not afraid to die,” I said. “If I must.”

“You will not die, Thranduil,” he said, smiling. “You are far different than the rest of the elves, so Nimeithel has said since the moment you were born. Something in you I have never seen in any elf.”

“I do not feel any different than any other,” I said. “I do not feel special. I hardly feel worthy of nobility.”

“You were born of nobility,” he said looking at me. “But it does not come from a throne or a crown. It comes from within. There is far more in you than you know. You will see an age far beyond this one. In time, my words will find their meaning.”

He began to leave.

“Ada,” I said. “I am proud to be your son.”

He smiled. He looked down for a moment then to me once more.

“There has been for me far more an honor to have been your father, Thranduil. You are the greatest thing I have given to this kingdom.”

He turned and went down the tower stairs, meeting Eldôr on the way. Together they disappeared down the spiral staircase.

I looked one last time into the vast forest. It was dark now. And the shadows from Mordor faded into the night, though the fires glowed brightly from its evil.

I turned away and went to find Êlúriel. Our time together was coming to an end. I thought of what my father had said. If I did return, I would be with her again. Though it seemed something promising, the fear of never returning still lingered in my mind.

*** *** *** *** The next day found many elves spending their last moments with one another. We would leave at dawn the next day. Êlúriel had risen early and left with several servants. I had yet to see her again. As walked toward the court room, I was met by Elranduil.

“First of all,” he began. “Your wife is with my wife and our mothers. And Amdir has not seen his son for a time and  would like very much to find him.”

“I have not seen him since that night,” I said softly. “In the garden.”

Elranduil smiled and nodded. I turned to see Amroth walking toward us.

“Well, what was lost has now been found,” Elranduil said. “How are you this day, Amroth?”

“Do not answer him,” I whispered. “It is best to keep quiet.”

“You mean he would like to know how I have spent my time,” Amroth said. “It has been sacrosanct. I trust my father has been inquiring about me since after inspection?”

“Yes,” Elranduil said. “And I told him exactly where you were.”

Amroth look at him in horror—his eyes growing larger as his mouth fell open. Suddenly, his father approached us looking at his son, puzzled.

“Amroth,” he said. “Stand up properly. You are a Prince of Lórien. And what is with this look? You did not think I would find out what you have been doing? Well, you are a young man in his prime. It is hardly something to worry yourself.”

Amroth seemed more horrified as he looked at his father.

“Father,” he asked. “I beg your pardon?”

“Elranduil told me that you have been spending your time with your new friends. I find them respectable enough, though the sons of Nînuir I find a bit odd. Well, I must speak with Oropher before tomorrow. Carry on.”

We bowed as he walked past us and down the hall into father’s study. Elranduil started laughing as Amroth looked relieved but slightly angry as he turned me.

“Your cousin is horrible,” he said.

“I know. I have spent over 3200 years with him.”

“Well, at least he had the fortitude not to say where I truly have been,” he answered. “Elranduil, for you I have no words except thank you.”

Elranduil smiled at him and made his way toward his chambers.

“How is Nimrodel,” I asked in a whisper. “If you do not mind my asking.”

“She is as well as to be expected,” he said. “She will leave me before the sun rises. She is stronger than I am, I am afraid. She does so much on her own and I am unable to anything but allow it. I have decided to ask her hand tonight. I do not care what anyone says. I love her. Enough of my sad story. How are you?”

“I am quite well,” I said. “Just a bit anxious. I have not seen my wife today.”

“I have,” Amroth said. “I just left her in the garden with your mother. She comes this way and I take my leave.”

I turned to see Êlúriel approaching me. When I turned again, Amroth was gone.

“Thranduil, come with me,” she said. “I would like a moment with you.”

By her tone, I felt I must have done something wrong. Before I could say a word, she was walking toward our chambers. I followed her—fearing her anger. Once inside, she turned toward me and looked at me with a gaze I could not fathom.

“What did I do, Êlúriel,” I asked. “I have not seen you since last evening. What have I done wrong?”

“Nothing,” she said, he gazed fixed on me. “But you have not done anything right.”

My mind began to race with what I had or had not done. I was completely confounded until she walked to me and looked me in the eye.

“Tell me, please,” I said. “I am afraid I do not remember what I have not done right.”

She looked down for a moment then back at me. She stared for what seemed forever until I realized she had embraced me, her eyes fixed on me. As I held her I realized I could feel the small of her back and it was bare.

“I think you know well what you have not done right today, Thranduil. I think you know well how to make it right.”

So I kissed her and we spent some time together.

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

“Êlúriel,” I said as I lay next to her. “There are no words for you.”

She smiled at me, then her expression turned to sadness.

“I love you,” she said. “More every day. The thought of you leaving me is tearing me apart.”

“I know. It is the same for me.”

“I was sent by your Mother, to tell your father wishes an audience.”

I sprang from our bed looking for my clothes.

“Êlúriel,” I yelled. “Are you mad? My father is will be furious that I am this late! How could you do this to me?”

“Are you angry with me,” she asked.

“Yes, I am,” I said. “You know my father. He has a ferocious temper when I am not in audience precisely on time. If the battle does not kill me, he most certainly will. I cannot believe you did not tell me.”

“I did not tell you because he requested to see you now.”

I was nearly dressed when I stopped abruptly.

“What?”

“If you do not hurry, you truly will be late,” she said smiling at me.

I leaned over her and just looked at her. I kissed her.

“You are incredibly irritating,” I said. “And I love you anyway.”

I kissed her again and took my shirt and walked out the door, fastening it on my way to court.

I noticed the silence of the court upon my approach. Coming down from the throne was my father with Eldôr and Finëar. They went their way as father approached me.

“There has never been a formidable way to prepare for battles,” he said to me. “I have seen many in my lifetime over many centuries and everyone of them could have been avoided had just one warrior had the fortitude to put behind him his own needs for another. Wars are the construct of greed, Thranduil. Morgoth feeds upon the desire of want to grow.”

“Yes, Father,” I said. I was now hours from leaving the only world I ever knew to fight a war for its preservation.

“Did you see Amroth today,” he asked.

“Yes,” I said. “He is doing well as to expected.”

“Did he say how Nimrodel was handling his departure,” he asked nonchalantly. “I trust it would be hard on her.”

“Pardon, Father,” I asked in shock.

“Thranduil, if you have not noticed, I am married to your mother. Nimeithel is as subtle as as a thunderstorm. Between her and her sister Valdúril, they could not keep a secret from each other if they had the desire. which they never have. Though I must say, they kept her away from Amdir quite well.”

“Mother told you of Nimrodel?”

“Your mother tells me everything,” he said laughing. “Never has she ever kept anything from me. I have never kept anything from her. We keep our own secrets to ourselves though I am quite sure some have made their way to Valdúril. None I have much of a care.”

“He spoke of her today,” I answered. “Then he took his leave for her.”

I was amazed that my parents had such a closeness. As a child, I often thought they were rather horrible. I did not understand love as adults. Now, I was speaking to my father as his equal—grown up with a wife of my own.

“Father, are you afraid,” I asked. “Of going off to fight this war?”

“Fear is always there, son,” he said pouring a cup of wine. “You cannot fight if you do not have fear. It is the very thing that gives you courage. Drink?”

“No, thank you. How can fear bring you courage?”

“Because one who thinks he is great is farther from greatness than one who does not think it at all. I know I am a great warrior, Thranduil, but the reason I know this is not because of those I have felled, but the battles I survived. There is no honor is killing—not even those vile glamhoth, for they as we are living creatures. Honor comes from knowing when to fight not how to fight. Morgoth fights because he has no choice and he made that choice for himself. We must fight against this evil because the further is spreads the more souls it will take.”

“We are not fighting Sauron,” I asked. “Is he not the one in Mordor?”

“He does the bidding of Morgoth,” he said, his demeanor turning darker. “There is nothing good or evil that does not move us to do what is right or wrong. We are of light. First born of Ilúvatar, awaken under the stars from heaven, as it is told and told again. That is what shines through us. For the servants of darkness, it is no different in their hearts. Darkness is light to them. They cannot see anything beyond destruction. That is what we face, Thranduil.”

I began to think of Êlúriel. I wanted nothing more than to be with her at that moment. As if my thoughts were heard, mother came into the hall. She was radiant but expressionless.

“Thranduil, your wife asks for you. I need to speak with your father.”

As I began to leave, she stopped me and embraced me. I could feel her sadness run through me.

“Do not worry, mother,” I said. “Please.”

“You are my only child, Thranduil,” she whispered. “That request I cannot grant you.”

She released me and I saw tears in her eyes for the first time. I kissed her forehead and quickly left before I began to cry. My world was changing not by years but hours and I could not stop it from rolling upon me like thunder.

I went to the door of our chambers. As I entered our room, Êlúriel was standing by the window looking into the night sky.

“I will die without you,” she said without looking at me. “Life would have no meaning anymore.”

“I will return,” I assured her. It was not a promise I knew I could keep for this was a war unlike any other.

“What if you do not come back to me, Thranduil? How can I go on? You do not know how I feel right now.”

She turned to me and her eyes had a sorrow I had never seen before. I went to her and extended my hand.

“Come, Êlúriel. Come with me.”

“Where are we going,” she asked, a tear falling down her face.

“Just come with me, Êlúriel. For me, please.“

She reluctantly took my hand and I led her out of our room and out into the coolness of the night. Hand in hand we walked in silence until we reached the place that meant the world to us. It was where we first met, where we had our first kiss, where we were married and now it was where I had to say goodbye.

“Why are we here, Thranduil,” she asked through tears. “I do not want to be reminded of happiness when tomorrow I could lose it forever.”

“I do not want to leave without telling you how much I love you in the place where our love began and will continue to grow.” I was desperate to see her smile, but even I found not one reason to do so.

“Of all the things in all the world, I treasure nothing above you. You are the greatest gift Heaven gave to me. If I left this world tomorrow, I know that I have loved with the greatest passion the most beautiful soul. I could never love another as I have loved you nor will I ever be loved so deeply than I have been loved by you, Êlúriel.”

For the first time that night she looked at me and I saw her again as she had always been to me. She moved closer to me and she kissed me. There are no words to describe that moment. At the moment of our release, I was washed with a wave of indescribable emotion.

“I need to be with you right now, Êlúriel. I cannot say it any other way.”

“Thranduil, I want to be with you. You are my only love and my greatest love and if this is my last night with you, then I want it to be here,” she said. Her voice, the only song I memorized, was a powerful lament.

Love took us over, stronger than ever before. I forgot myself as I kissed Êlúriel passionately. I never wanted anything so much in this world. We fell into a deep embrace beneath the stars our ancestors had awakened. So beautiful was our love, not even time wanted it to end.

As we lay under the most perfect night sky, Êlúriel looked at me and gave me the ring I placed on her finger when we were married. It was a silver meril. Delicately made for her. She had placed it in on chain and fastened it around my neck.

“Take this with you, my love. For should you die, you take with me my heart and my soul and I wish to have no reminders of such a loss. When you die, I will follow for there is no forever without you nor would I want it.”

I looked at her and kissed her again.

“When I return, I will give it back,” I said and I meant it so much, I felt tears running down my face.

“Should you return, Thranduil, I will have gotten back the only thing I love in this world. You. I will take it back but it will be you to put it on my finger. Come back to me, my love.”

“I will,” I whispered. “Nothing will ever keep me from you.” When we kissed again, I knew I would return. Somehow, her love would keep me strong. It was a love that would not die; not even when time cruelly took her away from me. I would never know love like this again. Only Êlúriel had my heart and I knew it would always be where it belonged.–Excerpt from TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil by J.M.Miller.

Warning: A wife plays a trick on her husband on their last full day and night together. Tender moments and I'm not talking about a husband and wife. I'm talking father and son mother and son. Chapter X, the romance has ended and the blood of elves, men and dwarves will fill the plains of Dagorlad. It is time for you to know who you are dealing with--Falas, Anor, Gondor, Imaladris, Moria, Eryn Galen and Lórien against the evil of Sauron at Mordor. So it begins.

Chapter IX: Last Days in Eryn Galen (Part II)

“It was still twilight when I rose out of bed and went to look out at the coming of dawn. Today I would be fitted for my armor. The day when I would leave for war was well upon us. As I stood watching another day rise, I felt Êlúriel’s embrace from behind.

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

“I know,” I whispered. “It seems only yesterday my life began. I had little worry of anything. Now I worry of everything. I had only my friends and the forest until time brought me a new happiness only to take it away.”

“Thranduil, nothing will take me away,” she said. “But I wonder how I will manage without you beside me every night knowing you are out there surrounded by darkness and all creatures of the night.”

“Do not think about it.”

She released me and came from behind. She had a stern look on her face. If I had known before what war would be, I would have found it almost less painful than having confrontations with Êlúriel.

“How can I not think about it, Thranduil,” she began at a very low growl. “It has not been longer than a fortnight that I became your wife and now I have to watch you leave me to fight an evil that will never die. Please, dear husband, tell me how it is possible for me to not think about it?”

“You know well what I meant,” I said. “Do not think about it now. I have not left you yet. We has precious little time, Êlúriel. I do not want to waste it on endless discussions about war or not returning to you. It is starting to bother me.”

“Bother you,” she yelled. “I apologize for bothering you with my pain at the possibility of losing you.”

“Êlúriel, calm down, if you will.”

“No,” she said, her voice louder than before as  she picked up her robe and put it on. “I will not calm down. But you seem to be fine with it all suddenly.”

She rushed over to her side of the bed. I knew she was about summon the servants. I hurried over before she rang them.

“Êlúriel, stop. Why are you so angry with me? I did not want any of this. I have no choice. You know this. I know this. Everyone in this world knows this. All I wanted was to be with you and begin a life. I have enough to think about. I do not want to argue with you.”

I sat down on the bed. I was exhausted emotionally. I knew my departure was hurting Êlúriel, but it was tearing me asunder. I wondered if it was the same for everyone. Êlúriel stood before me and I pulled her close and held her. I felt her head atop of mine. Immediately I could feel her tears in my hair as she wept.

“I apologize, Thranduil,” she sobbed. “This is breaking my heart. I do not want to let you go. I know I must, but I cannot bring myself to do such a thing. I cannot. I love you so much.”

I tried not to cry, but her pain was mine. I always felt it. We seemed to have a bond that was deeper than most. There were times when it was passionate, but then there were times as this when it was unbearable.

“Do not apologize,” I said. “I know how you feel. I feel it. I do not want to leave my beloved. My beautiful Êlúriel. Please stop weeping. You are breaking my heart.”

She sat down beside me. I noticed the sun had begun to rise as the sky changed from dark to light. I turned to her tried to wipe the tears away. Her eyes were drowning in sorrow. I thought if I looked into them long enough, I would drown and never have to leave her. I kissed her.

“You surprise me,” she said. “So many times you do with your love.”

“How can I do that, Êlúriel,” I asked. “You know me far better than anyone. Including myself. I should think you would know my every movement. Every thought. Every feeling.”

“I do,” she said. “But there are times when you put them together in a way that is unexpected. I love that.”

“Good,” I said. “Let me see what I can come up with tonight to surprise you.” I kissed her just as the knock on our door signaled another day I would spend away from Êlúriel.

“Enter,” we said together. It was Nenduriel. She covered her eyes. I realized I was still unclothed. It almost laughed, remembering all the years she tortured me as a child dressing me for court. I also knew that I was not always well behaved then and felt a bit of guilt.

“It would seem you caught me rather naked, Nenduriel. I apologize.”

I rose quickly and put on my robe. I knew she would tell mother the moment she found her.

“He is covered,” Êlúriel laughed as Nenduriel entered.

“Thankfully. Queen Nimeithel sent me to you, Êlúriel. She would like a word. As soon as Thranduil has left.”

“I do not wish to know what the fairer have to say when I am away,” I said. “Especially my mother.”

I kissed Êlúriel once more and went to be dressed by the servants that had followed Nenduriel into the room. When they finished, I left quickly. I still felt upset over my wife’s pain as it remained with me.

It was in the hall that I met my mother and Valdúril on the way to my chambers. They seemed not to notice me as they walked into the room. The guards shut the door behind them. I gave one a glance. He shook his head. I began one of the last walks down the familiar halls I would take before my world would begin to descend into darkness.

In the hall, Elranduil, Melros, Fëaluin and Fínduin circled me like beasts of prey; their eyes just as wild.

“Thranduil, you have been late every day,” Elranduil said angrily. “What has you vexed?”

“My wife,” I said softly. “Let me be. All of you have had your time. I have not. I have been wed but a moment and a moment later, I am made to leave for war.”

“Oropher is to inspect the elven warriors shortly,” Melros said. “You cannot be absent.”

“You do realize I am well on my way there, Melros,” I asked. “I know well where I am to be this day.”

We walked through the halls quickly, our steps echoing throughout. I seemed the court had gone missing. As the main gates opened for us, the sea of elves in armor shone in the sun as a sea of silver and gold. Thousands of them covered every square inch of land surrounding the palace. The archers were distinguished by their quivers. I stopped cold. My heart beat wildly within. I knew I would be leaving now. Until that moment, I had hoped that it was just talk—that this war was just rumor amongst the elves of Arda. It became clear that it was true and within days, I would leave my home, my wife and begin the march upon Dagorlad.

“Unbelievable,” Fínduin whispered. “I never knew there were so many of us.

“We live in the palace, that is why,” Fëaluin answered.

“So, it is true,” I said still in awe. “We leave three days hence.”

“Yes, we do,” Nimlos said as he walked toward us, dressed in full battle armor. “Galdúmîr and Eldûmír sent me for all but Thranduil and Elranduil. You are to be inspected with the others.”

Melros, Fëaluin and Fínduin looked at one another fearfully. Nimlos bowed and motioned for them to follow. Now, only the Princes of Eryn Galen stood alone at the gate. Before we could take a step, we were surrounded by elves  putting us into our armor. When they were done, they bowed and left us alone.

“Should me go,” I asked. I felt as I had as an elven child, the youngest of all my father’s household—the least of them, but the heir to a kingdom and its army.

“I do not think we have a choice, Thranduil.”

We walked slowly across the bridge, cautiously close as we had done in childhood. At the end of the bridge, we heard the sound of hooves galloping toward us. Upon his steed, Glorduir, the color of gold with flowing white mane and tail, was my father clad in the armor I had seen the night before—gleaming silver with the crest of Eryn Galen in white and silver within a ring of gold. Near the end of our walk, Amroth stood, dressed in the armor of Lórien.

“Look there,” he said, pointing to his right. “Those warriors there came with us from Lórien. Not many, but brave and willing to fight.”

Dressed similarly to Amroth, they seemed lost among the soldiers of Eryn Galen.

Behind him rode Amdir of Lórien, Galdúmîr, Eldûmír and Eldôr similarly clad. They stopped in front of us. I was still in awe at the warriors to notice.

“Thranduil,” Oropher said seething. “Where have you been?”

“I beg your pardon, Father?”

“Many apologies, uncle,” Elranduil said defensively. “Thranduil was not well this morning.” He nudged me lightly and I sniffed.

“Well,” my father began calmer. “You are here now.”

Several elves led my horse Sûldúmîr, with Sîrluin, Elranduil’s silver blue stallion with the long mane of midnight. Another led a dust brown stallion with a light brown mane and tail–heir tack battle ready in the colors of their kingdoms.

“This is Hîthuin,” Amroth said proudly, taking his reins. “Father rides Fëaruin.“

As we mounted our steeds, I began to feel a fear I never felt. One part of my life was ending another was about to begin.

We rode to where my father waited for us. I looked around and caught sight of my mother with Êlúriel and Ardúin standing with all the ladies of the court. Êlúriel caught my eye before I could turn away. She lowered her head. I could feel her heart breaking. I returned my glance toward the soldiers just as my father began to speak.

“You are warriors of the Elves. Warriors of Eryn Galen,” he began. “You have been called to rise against the shadow that has plagued this world since before our time began. It is by honor we fight, bound by duty. For peace it may bring should we end the darkness that has plagued the hearts of many and taken the lives of far more. We depart from Eryn Galen at dawn three days hence.”

Galdúmîr rode forward. He raised his hand and every soldier turned toward the south. He brought his hand down and the soldiers marched toward their quarters that lay beneath the palace. He rode away alongside the soldiers. The sound of their armor sounded like an eerie cacophony of what was to come.

“There came a messenger in the night not long after Glorfindel left for Imladris,” I heard Eldôr say to my father. “Word of the Dúnedain. Led by Anárion, in Gondor.”

“This war grows larger by day, does it not, Eldôr,” father asked. “Out of allegiance to Elendil, yet I question not his motives. It is Isildur I do not trust.”

“Anárion is on his own against Sauron,” Amdir said softly. “What can he do but fight.”

“I am told Círdan has arrived from Falas,” Eldûmír said. “I did not think he would have any fight left in him.”

“I am inclined to believe something more than just defeating the evil of Morgoth is involved,” Father answered. “I dare not speak of it, but I am glad to have been far from it.”

He rode away slowly with Amdir, waving to mother as he headed toward the stables. Elranduil, Amroth and me followed dutifully behind Eldôr and Eldûmír.

“Elranduil,” I said. “I do not like this at all.”

“Nor I, Thranduil,” he said. “We are committing more than enough of our warriors to this war. It is not clear to me as to the reason behind it but I dare not question my uncle and king.”

“I do not question father. His since of loyalty to his kin is strong. It is the kin to which his loyalty lies that I question.”

We rode on in silence. Once we reached the stables, I dismounted and  and a stable hand took my horse away. Elranduil had jumped down and was headed toward Eldôr. As I was removing one of my gauntlets, I saw the hem of a dress. I looked up to see Êlúriel.

“Êlúriel, what has brought you here,” I asked.

“I wished to see you, she said quietly. “That is all.”

When my armor was removed, I took my wife’s hand.

“Come with me,” I said.

We left the stables and began to walk toward the palace. We watched elves removing their armor and speaking with one another.

“You will leave me in three days, Thranduil,” she said. “That is too soon.”

“I know,” I answered as paused on a tree lined path. The setting sun cast shadows of us as I leaned my back against a tree. I pulled Êlúriel closer to me.

“How was the day for you,” she asked.

“Rather insignificant,” I said. “Aside from what we saw.”

“You were fitted in your armor, were you not?”

“Yes.”

She looked up at me. Whenever Êlúriel looked into my eyes, I seemed to find myself somewhere peaceful. The world would fade away and time had little meaning.

“Did it fit to your liking,” she asked.

“Well, as it is armor, I do not plan to wear it to sleep. So, for the purpose for which it was created, I feel it is comfortable enough.”

She started to laugh. I was thankful that I would not endure an evening like the morning.

“When you go away, Thranduil, will you miss me?”

“No. I fear I have already forgotten who you are,” I teased. Who are you? I should call the palace guard and have you thrown into the dungeon!”

She laughed again.

“Thranduil, you are horrible at this game,” she said. “You are suppose to tell me you will miss me terribly.”

“Êlúriel,” I began desperately trying not to laugh. “You know well I will miss you. Stop searching for things you already know. I love you. Why would I not miss you? I miss you whenever I leave you, silly.”

“I know,” she said. “But I like to hear it time and again. Just to make sure.”

I began laughing so hard I almost fell to the ground.

“Make sure of what? Have you gone mad?”

“No,” she said smiling. “Of course not. I just want to know how you feel.”

I looked at her, caressed her face and pulled her closer to me.

“Êlúriel,” I whispered. “You are absolutely the single most unusual elven maiden in all of Eryn Galen if not Arda that probably ever lived. I must have been mad to have married you. But I would never in all eternity want to spend my life with anyone other than you because for some reason that I cannot fathom, I am completely in love with you.”

“Thranduil,” she whispered. “That is not fair. What can I say to that?”

“I was hoping you would be quiet so I could kiss you, but you like to talk. Very much it would appear.”

She moved in closer to me and he could feel her gentle breath close to my lips.

“I do not talk that much, do I,” she asked.

“Yes. Yes, you do, Êlúriel. Be quiet.”

Our lips touched and our embrace grew stronger. I loved everything about her lips whenever I kissed them. She pulled away for a moment.

“Do you remember me now,” she whispered. “Do you?”

I looked at her delicate face, flawless skin and into her sparkling eyes I loved getting lost.

“I fear I need more reminding, if you will.”

“I love you, Thranduil,” she said.

“I love you, too, whoever you are.”

As we kissed, I found myself forgetting everything that was coming. We never made it to the palace until far into the night. I forgot about the day and thought of nothing else but our love. It was a perfect love.”–Excerpt from TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil by J.M.Miller 2-24-16

Thranduil learns when he goes to war. Êlúriel is upset, but as always, they make up.☺️ But today was inspection of the soldiers by Oropher. Talk of what's coming. More love.

Chapter VIII: Winds of War (Part I)

“Father led us toward our southern borders and I realized we were going toward the on of the highest peaks of our tallest mountains.  From atop the small plateau, one could see Mordor. Why we rode in that direction was an enigma but I knew it was something my father commanded. I glanced over to Êlúriel’s face seem far more serious than I had seen before.

“You do not look well,” I said quietly. “Do we need to return home?”

“No,” she said placidly. “I know where we go, Thranduil.”

Finally, the group stopped. I noticed my father speaking with Eldôr, Nendúril, and Galdúmîr. Elranduil motioned for me as my mother, Valdúril and Ardúin rode toward Êlúriel.

“Come, Êlúriel,” Ardúin said quietly. “There are more pleasant places to see.”

Êlúriel and I looked at one another for a moment. She looked away and rode off with the others. Her glance gave me a coldness I could not explain. As I rode over to Elranduil, I could see a darkening of the skies from a great distance.

“Morgoth returns darkness to this world again, for I can see Sauron doing his evil,” Father said. He seemed unable to keep his eye from the darkness as his face showed a fear tormented by anger.

“I do not wish to fight this. But there is no choice.”

“I got word from Lórien,” Eldôr began. “From the west comes Círdan.” At that name, everyone looked at my uncle in horror.

“There is a name I have not heard in some time,” Galdúmîr sighed. “War comes to us again. For Círdan would not come so far from Mithlond for naught.”

“There is far more than war, Galdúmîr,” Oropher said looking at me and Elranduil sadly. “From the west he comes with the race of men. One I do not find a fondness. There lies in him a darkness that I have always found in Men but this is something darker.”

“What is going to happen, father,” I asked.

“Death, Thranduil. The plains of Dagorlad will drown in it.”

There fell a horrific silence. I noticed the faces of everyone become more grave. No one dared speak. Elranduil looked at me in desperation.

“When,” I said breaking the silence. “When will this come to pass?”

“Worry not, Thranduil,” Eldôr said calmly. “The time has not yet come forth. I wait word from Imladris on this matter.”

“You wait for Imladris,” Oropher asked. “You of all elves should know that what comes from there comes from Lórien. Never shall the two be put asunder. They are joined by blood to each other and to Men.”

“Lord Elrond I find to be forthright in his actions,” Eldôr said gently. “With much respect, Oropher, he shows the most promise.”

“There will be none that know of peace from within for years to come,” Nendúril said. His face much like his daughter’s. He seemed see something we could not. “This evil can never rest for it depends on the failure of strength. There are many in this world that have not the strength to defeat what lures them with their own desires.”

“I know, Nendúril,” Oropher answered. “And we shall pay a great price. Let us go.”

He turned and began riding away with the others. Only I remained with Elranduil.

“We will go to battle, then,” I asked for validation.

“Yes, Thranduil. But if I can make a better world, then I shall. For Ardúin is expecting.”

I looked into the darkness that seemed not to reach to the borders of Eryn Galen. I rode away with Elranduil. What promise the day held was filled with sadness. All I could think was how long I would have with my beloved Êlúriel before I had to face an evil for which I was ill-prepared to fight.

As I rode alongside Elranduil toward the palace, I caught sight of Êlúriel standing alone overlooking a valley. I motioned to one of the soldiers and dismounted Sûldúmîr. The soldier took his reins and continued to follow Elranduil. Nearby, Eluin quietly grazed.

“Êlúriel,” I called. She turned to look at me.

“Thranduil,” she answered. “I know you will go off to war.”

“Did Mother tell you this,” I asked leaning against a tree next to her.

“No. I have always known. Might I tell you something?”

“Of course,” I said. “Please.”

She looked at me, her complexion drained of color and deeply saddened.

“Remember I told you of my mother and how she died,” she began. “But I did not mention that while hidden within that cavern, I fell asleep. I saw many things. As a child, I did not understand them. It was not until I saw the shadow that I realized all that I was shown. I saw many frightening things, Thranduil, but I also saw you.”

“Me,” I asked. How could she see me as a child? She began to reveal her true self.

“I did not know it was you until I came into the forest that day. I was meant to find you. And I am very happy that I found you. I love you very much.”

She walked to me and I held her close. I kissed her forehead gently. Her body seemed to quake. Something was scaring her terribly.

“Do not worry about this now, please,” I begged. “I do not want to think of it myself. I have lived with the stories of our past told to me since I was a child. I never thought I would have to face it, but I must, but not now. Now I just want to be with you for as long as I have.”

She stopped shaking and looked up at me. The color had returned to her face and she was my Êlúriel again. I kissed her lips and everything seem right again.

“Are you happy, Thranduil,” she asked.

“You know I am. Why would you ask such a question?”

“I just like to hear you say that you are,” she said smiling. “I love the sound of your voice.”

“It is not too deep of you, Êlúriel?”

“No. It is perfectly resonant. It is perfectly Thranduil.”

She kissed me tenderly. As we were becoming lost in one another again, I pulled away gently. I noticed a light rain begin to fall.

“I think we should finish this at home,” I said.

I went over to Eluin and mounted her. Taking Êlúriel’s hand, I pulled her up front. As we rode toward the palace, I thought of everything she told me. I decided not to ask for anymore than what she said that day. I feared many things she may have seen. What if I were to die? What would become of my beloved Êlúriel? I tried to rid myself of the thoughts as we neared the stables. Once inside, the rain fell harder. Once we dismounted, a stable hand took Eluin away.

“Do not leave me, Thranduil,” she said. “Not yet.”

“Never.”

We began to kiss passionately. I began to forget what she might have seen. I just wanted to be with her. I do not remember how long we were there, but if it had been forever, I would have given my immortality for what turned out to be a moment.”–Excerpt from TKWR:BII The Saga of Thranduil by J.M.Miller 2-16-16

Shorter, but nonetheless important as the shadow of Mordor rises and a war looms on the horizon. Eryn Galen will change forever and so will all of Middle Earth.⚔📗🏹