Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/ works/13663935. Rating: Explicit Archive Warning: Underage Category: F/M, M/M Fandom: The_Hobbit_-_J._R._R._Tolkien Relationship: Tauriel_(Hobbit_Movies)/Thranduil_(Tolkien), Legolas_Greenleaf/Tauriel, Galion/Thranduil_(Tolkien) Character: Thranduil_(Tolkien), Legolas_Greenleaf, Galion_(Tolkien), Tauriel_(Hobbit Movies), Original_Characters Collections: Main_Library Stats: Published: 2018-02-13 Updated: 2018-03-28 Chapters: 14/? Words: 46085 ****** The Moth & The Flame ****** by AvaloyuruGeovaughni Summary In the aftermath of the Battle of the Five Armies, Thranduil finds the world within his Halls empty. He struggles to come to terms with the absence of his only child and the loss of the one he raised as if she were his own daughter. He begins to realize that what he feels for Tauriel is more than a fatherly affection. Having publicly banished her, could he or should he try to get her back? What of Legolas, now departed for the north? Would he return? What of the feelings his son still harbors in his own heart for the young beautiful former Captain of the Guard? If he acts on his feelings, will the rift between them grow wider? Thranduil decides to follow his heart. Notes Disclaimer: I do not own Tolkien’s world, Middle-Earth, or any of its associated characters or geographical locations. I receive no form of compensation monetarily or otherwise from this work of fan-fiction. See the end of the work for more notes ***** A Royal Escort ***** Chapter Summary After being banished from her home by the King, the only father she had ever known and then abandoned by Legolas, Tauriel sought seclusion among the kindred Wood elves of Lórinand. Unfortunately, her solitude was short lived as the King himself arrives to escort her back to Mirkwood. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes The rustic two-story building serving as both an Inn and Dining Hall sat comfortably nestled in a grove of tall evergreens, sheltered beneath the outer edges of the leafy canopy of the Vellanräé and Malinornë trees. The evening had grown late and most of Lórinand had retreated to their tree top homes or faded back into the surrounding Vales. Tauriel sat quietly, just staring at the flames in the hearth that dominated the far wall of the main dining area. Fleeing Mirkwood, she had hoped to find solitude amongst the Wood elves, yet the ache in her heart had only grown deeper. Truly alone with nothing but her memories of the only home she had ever known and the love she found only to lose. She knew there was no going back, even without having been banished, her betrayal of Legolas had caused a rift between him and his father, a pain she knew he would never forgive. Frowning as someone stepped close yet just outside her vision, she became aware that the soft hum of conversation had faded suddenly into silence. “Please don’t make a scene Tauriel.” The young Woodland guard said softly, making no move to come closer to her. “Where is he?” She demanded more than asked as she continued to stare into the hearth. She knew without looking it was Eluandúnië. He was the youngest of the kings’ personal guard and a Silvan elf like herself. “The king is tending to other business.” He told her quietly as he finally stepped closer, standing between her and the hearth. “He will join us in morning, for now you will come with us.” He added, his voice remained quiet yet his tone was firm. “I am going nowhere with you.” She stated, nearly jumping to her feet as she turned toward the main entrance. “Damn it!” She hissed beneath her breath as she turned away from Rínnänéth, only to find herself staring at the stoic face of Macilvoronhûr, both of which were members of the kings’ personal guard. Glancing around the large main room, her heart sank as she noted only a few Wood elves cleaning the tables and the worried Sambetur (Keeper of the Hall) were all that remained. “I need to gather my things.” She stated as she turned back to face him angrily, ignoring the sadness and the warning in his soft green eyes. “Glaurhalbër has already taken them back to the Vale, now come.” He told her, waving his hand in front of him indicating that she lead the way toward the back entrance. “Aldalómë?” She asked, turning away from him to walk slowly toward the entrance. “He awaits us at the Vale.” He replied, moving close behind her. ~*~ “She must be very important to you Eshë.”(Friend-Trusted Ally) Gilaiwë said quietly, reaching up to tuck a few stray strands of his hair behind his ear and caress his cheek. “I have been her protector since she was but an elfling.” Thranduil sighed as he leaned down, placing a soft kiss on her forehead. “She is young and irrational, I wish only to return her to her home.” He added, burying his face in the warmth of her neck. “It is easy to do when you love someone.” She mused as she drew her nails up across the naked flesh of his back, smiling as she felt him shiver. “Love?!” He nearly blurted as he pulled back from her, his eyes narrowing as he stared at her. “Why else would you personally come to retrieve her?” She laughed, tilting her head as she stared back at him inquisitively, her soft blue eyes dancing with laughter. “Gilaiwë, to me she is but a child, I feel responsible for her.” He groaned as he leaned down, capturing her mouth in a long searching kiss that turned hungry as he felt her body pressing tighter against his own. “Perhaps I just wanted to see you again.” He said quietly, a soft lilt of humor resonated in his deep tone as he pulled back from her. A playful mischief dancing in his eyes as he moved lower, gently sucking a small nipple into his mouth. Closing his eyes, he flicked the tiny bud with tip of his tongue, enjoying the soft moans that escaped her throat as he teased her relentlessly. Releasing it as he felt her fingers tangle themselves in his hair, he moved to the other one, his fingers quickly replacing his lips on the other. Smiling to himself as he trailed his kisses, lower down her taut stomach as he settled himself between her thighs. Grasping her hips gently yet firmly, he drew his tongue teasingly along the inside of her sex before pressing his lips at the apex. Encircling the small pearl with his lips, he suckled gently as he pleasured her with the tip of his tongue. Moving upward only when her groans became more demanding as she thrust against him, he pressed into her warmth. Wrapping her arms around him as he entered her, she hugged him tightly, pressing her cheek against his chest. Breathing in the scent of him, she listened to the soft moans boiling in his chest and throat as he moved against her, taking her with him. Arching toward him, she met his thrusts with a hunger that matched his as he built the tension between them. Clinging to him tightly as she felt him stiffen, his breath coming in ragged gasps, she held him as he found his release. Smiling as he collapsed against her, she continued to hold him as she gently stroked his hair. They were as much kindred Fäë (Spirit) now as they were long ago, with no care for orthodox ways. She was of noble birth as was he, yet with many brothers and sisters, she had been spared the ordeal of a forced arranged marriage that he as his father’s only heir had endured. There had been many an elleth (Elf maiden) that had warmed his bed over the many long years since he had lived here for a time as a carefree young prince. Yet, as his first, it was always Gilaiwë whose light burned the brightest in his memories. The room had darkened as all but one of the tall tappers had flickered out into puddles of melted of wax in their holders. Even the hearth had darkened, casting an almost eerie ember glow about the room as they lay silently, their bodies still entwined on the bed. “Do you have to go so soon?” Gilaiwë whispered, her arm still held him possessively as she rested her head on his chest, listening to the steady sound of his heartbeat. “I am afraid I do.” He sighed, one hand absently stroking her hair gently as he caressed the soft flesh of her naked bottom with the other. “Even departing at first light we will have to make camp at least once before entering the forest. If we encounter the shelob (spiders), I do not wish to do so at night.” “You must find a way to let me know you have arrived safely.” She told him as she moved on top of him, clasping his face in her hands. “I shall be afraid for you until I hear from you.” “I will be fine Eshë.”(Friend-Trusted Ally). He told her as he pulled her face closer, kissing her lips tenderly. “It should take no more than two days. I will send word through Gléril, (A Raven) he will remember you and he is swift.” It had been too long since they had been able to spend any length of time together, the growing evil from the north had made travel too dangerous. Knowing there was nothing she could say that would make him stay, Gilaiwë kissed him softly and reluctantly released him. Watching him as he slipped out of the bed, she admired his body as he walked toward the small table that held a copper basin and a pitcher of water. Broad shouldered with a sender waist and well-toned muscles from different battles, he was tall like his mother who was Iathrim, a descendant of the Vanyar, giving him the sapphire eyes and long golden hair so pale that it appeared silver in the sunlight. “I have already sent word to have supplies taken to the Vale for your journey.” She told him as she sat up, wrapping her arms around her knees as she drew them toward her breasts. Smiling as she watched him wash quickly. “Thoughtful as always.” He said, flashing her a smile as he turned to his riding clothes neatly hung over the back of a nearby chair. “My annual sojourn to the Grey Mountains is in four moons.” She said quietly, still watching him as if she wanted to commit every detail to memory, although she would know his face anywhere. “I wish you would forego your trip.” He stated, casting her a grim expression as he pulled on his leggings. “It is not safe.” “We will take the Anduin and travel by foot once we reach the Langwell Fork at Greylin.” She stated, stubbornly meeting his gaze with her own willfulness. Sighing heavily as he pulled on his riding tunic, he felt fear for her rising in his gut. While the shelob (spiders) did not leave the cover of the forest, there were still goblin forces and errant orcs living in the deeper caverns and tunnels within the Misty Mountains. They were not known for attacking ships along Anduin but it was not something he would wager on. “I need to know you are safe Gilaiwë.” He said sternly as he walked back toward her. “I mean it, I cannot lose you too.” He said, his voice softening as he sank down onto the bed, pulling her into his lap. “Thranduil.” She stated quietly but firmly as she took his face in her hands, forcing him to meet her gaze. “It is not truly safe anywhere. Whatever this evil is, it has paid no attention to Lórinand because we are far too small and too few to pose a threat. The day will come when I will journey to the Grey Mountains to join my family and stay where I can live in peace, but that time is not now.” “Please try to understand.” She told him softly when he remained silent, staring at her as a sadness crept into the depths of his sapphire eyes. “You give me no choice.” He sighed as he hugged her tightly before turning to lay her back onto the bed. His expression grew grim as he leaned forward to retrieve his riding boots. “We both have our duties.” He said as he pulled them on and rose to his feet, turning to flash a huge smile at her. “Come here.” He chuckled, holding his arms out to her. “Just because I do not like something does not mean I do not understand.” He said as he wrapped his arms around her, capturing her mouth in a long searching kiss. Without another word he released her and turned away, striding purposefully out of her bed chamber. He wanted that image of her and those last few moments together to live in his memory until the next time he saw her. The ride to the north Vale was little more than an hour from Gilaiwës’ cottage in the Noldor Vale. Giving Maeglir his head to take the lead, Thranduil relaxed in the saddle, enjoying the gentle but chilly breeze in his hair as his steed broke into a swift canter. Sighing heavily, he braced himself for his meeting with Tauriel as the soft glow of the lanterns at the ferry dock finally came into view. Reining him in, he guided Maeglir back into the forest as he made his way to the stables behind the Inn. “My Lord.” Macilvoronhûr greeted him as he dismounted. “He’s with Lenwë.” He answered, reading the kings’ unspoken question as he took the reins from him. “Tauriel is with him.” He added as the king arched his brow at him. Nodding his thanks, Thranduil turned away and strode toward the hallway that would take him through the inns’ large dining room. Frowning inwardly at how so much had changed since he had last visited, he moved quickly toward Lenwës’ private quarters in the front of the inn. “Go on in, he’s expecting you.” The servant told him with a smile as he reached the archway. “Thank you Tíránist.” Thranduil replied quietly, nodding as he moved passed him to the slightly open door. “It is good to know some things never change.” Lenwë stated, flashing him broad a toothy grin, moving toward him as Thranduil entered the large sitting room. “I could say the same about you.” Thranduil laughed as the two embraced in the middle of the room. “Tóriôn is green with envy that you were spending your only night here with the Lady Gilaiwë.” He whispered in his ear before releasing him, enjoying the ever so slight blush that colored Thranduils’ neck. “Perhaps next time when I can stay longer.” Thranduil replied, his eyes danced a little with the memory of the slender but very talented ellyn (male elf) and their private escapades at the waterfall. Observing in silence as she stood at the edge of the large hearth, Tauriel tried to remember the last time she had seen the king truly smile. Even when he did, it never reached his eyes as it did now. She was more than just angry with him yet she could feel it dim slightly as she watched him, he was beautiful especially when he seemed so happy. For so long his face had hardened with concern and the strain of the darkness that had crept so stealthily over their beloved forest. Watching him now, his face relaxed, she remembered happier times in their fortress home. A time when she would try to hide from him and Legolas but he would always find her and send her squealing as they played away the hours. “Regrettably I must leave you now.” Thranduil stated, his tone turning stern as he watched her in the fringes of his view. “I want to reach the High Pass before we make camp. We need to reach the Vale of the Forked Pass by midday on the morrow if we are to be safely in the palace by nightfall.” “That is quite a distance.” Lenwë commented thoughtfully, frowning slightly as they both turned toward Aldalómë who stood silently only a few feet away. “It will be a good push but we will rest the mounts at Loeg Ningloron.” He stated, his gaze shifting between the two. “The first part is the longest part of the journey. The difficulty will come once we enter the forest.” “You will have to stay on the eastern side of the Anduin.” Lenwë stated, turning toward the king. “The western shores have become too marshy once you reach the Sîr Ninglor inlet.” “Yes. The river will provide the distance between us and the foothills as well.” Thranduil nodded, his gaze taking on a distant look as his thoughts already turned toward the journey ahead. “I will make arrangements to send word to the Lady Gilaiwë once we have arrived safely.” He added, smiling as he turned to embrace Lenwë one last time. “Aa' lasser en lle coia n' omenta gurtha.” (May the leaves of your life tree never turn brown) Lenwë stated as he hugged him tightly. “Aa' menealle nauva calen ar' malta.” (May your ways be green and golden) Thranduil replied, returning his embrace. “My Lord.” Aldalómë stated with a respectful nod toward Lenwë as Thranduil turned toward the door without looking at them. “Tauriel.” He said quietly as he waved his hand toward the king, indicating that he would follow her. “My Lord.” She said quietly, giving Lenwë a respectful nod as she walked passed him. They moved swiftly through the large dining room, the long strides of the taller elves made her feel as if she were almost running to keep up with them. Emerging from the hallway into the stable yard, the rest of the guard had already mounted and were waiting for them. Taking the reins from Eluandúnië, Thranduil grasped the saddle horn and easily swung his long frame atop his mount. Turning to face her as she stood beside Aldalómë, he extended his hand down toward her. “I can ride by myself.” She stated, lifting her chin in defiance. “Tauriel.” Thranduil stated sharply through clenched jaws, his eyes narrowing as he glared at her. Shaken at the tone of his voice, she froze for a moment before reaching for his hand. Gasping as he easily pulled her into the saddle, plunking her unceremoniously in front of him. “Do not test me.” Thranduil whispered a warning in her ear as he slipped one arm tightly around her waist, nearly jerking her back against him. “I do not need the rein him, Maeglir knows me well.” He added as he motioned the huge war steed forward with a slight movement of his hips, he smiled to himself as he heard her breath catch in her throat. Slowly the party made their way silently along the narrow trail toward the ferry dock at the bend in the Anduin. Ordinarily they would have walked the distance as it was just over a mile, yet knowing Tauriel as he did, he expected some form of confrontation and preferred that it not be in a public place. He was in a hurry to get as far away from Lórinand as quickly as possible so as not to draw attention to them. Gilaiwë was right in that they had not been bothered by the shelob (spiders) as they were too small to be of any interest to them. But Thranduil was not so confident in the lack of interest from whatever evil now inhabited Dol Guldur. Lórinand was located just north of Fanghorn at the Gianduin River and had long served as a safe gateway for many through the lower end of the Misty Mountains and he knew that attention would be drawn to them soon enough. “We will stay mounted.” Thranduil told the ferry master as they approached the shore of the Anduin. “Ben iest gîn, hîr vuin.” (As you wish, My Lord). He stated with a nod and hurried down the slope toward the huge barge-like ferry. “Easy.” Thranduil said quietly as Maeglir tossed his head and snorted his reluctance to step up onto the unstable floating platform. Held tightly against him Tauriel listened to his ever so soft voice speaking in a gentle tone to the nervous steed. She felt the subtle movements of his hips and knees as he easily coaxed the huge steed closer and up onto the unsteady platform. She could feel the strong bond between them as the steed seemed comforted not only by his presence but by something deeper. Unstable without solid ground beneath their feet, the horses whinnied and snorted nervously as the oarsman guided the large bulky ferry against the current toward the opposite shore. “I do not wish to delay.” Thranduil stated as they reached the shore. “We make haste for the Imladris pass. We will rest the horses at Loeg Ningloron and not before.” He continued as the oarsmen secured the ferry to the shore. One by one the horses leapt from the wooden barge, galloping into the darkness as soon as their hooves found solid ground. Chapter End Notes Sindarin Words Used: Eshë – Full Phrase = Eshë nîn níëvé meaning “my friend in the sense of a trusted ally who is also a lover yet not life mate” Iathrim – Held to be the highest and noblest of the Grey-even kindred, serving under the order of Queen Melian who was of the Maia Maia – Spirits who descended to Arda to help in the shaping of the World (Gandalf was a Maia) Vanyar – The first and the smallest of the three ‘Clans of the Elves’ also known as Ingwer meaning ‘Chieftains’ Maeglir – Thranduil’s War Steed. ***** The Journey Home ***** Chapter Summary Traveling north, they kept as close to the eastern shore of the Andiun as safely possible allowing for as much distance between them and the Misty Mountains as well as the forest. Silent in their own thoughts, both Thranduil and Tauriel find themselves becoming more and more aware of their attraction to each other. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes Although the sun was already high in the sky by the time they reached Loeg Ningloron, it did little to warm the chilly winter winds that blew down from the snow covered peaks of the Misty Mountains. They had only stopped once long enough to retrieve their riding cloaks from their packs before Thranduil pushed them back to an almost relentless speed. Warmed by his cloak and body heat as he held her tightly against him, Tauriel still felt the cold stinging her cheeks as the landscape raced passed by them in a blur. Much more accustomed to sprinting on foot in the forest, Tauriel felt as if every bone and muscle in her body ached. “Come on.” Thranduil said quietly as he dismounted, swinging her down with him. “They need to rest and you need walk.” He told her as he unfastened the thick cloak and pulled if off his shoulders. “What about you?” She asked as he wrapped the comforting warmth of the cloak around her shoulders. “I will be fine.” He stated, avoiding the urge to look at her as he fastened it at her neck. “Now walk.” He added as he turned her away from him and gave her a gentle push. “But...” She started, turning around to complain but he had walked away from her and was now already in what appeared to be a deep discussion with Aldalómë. Angry as she was with him, she didn’t really want to fight with him, she hugged the thick cloak tighter around her and simply walked back and forth. The air was still chilly but there was less wind now that they were not racing along banks of the Anduin, her muscles complaining profusely with each step. “Here, eat this.” Rínnänéth said quietly as he approached, handing her a bread roll and a flask of water. “We won’t make camp until closer to time for the evening meal. You’ll be pretty hungry by then.” He told her with a slight smile and abruptly walked away from her. Leaning against a rock outcropping, she frowned as she weighed the bread roll in her hand for a moment. It felt heavy as if it wasn’t quite cooked all the way through. Curious, she bit into it and was pleasantly surprised as the taste of goat cheese filled her mouth. Keeping her head down slightly as she ate, she watched the king as he continued his discussion with Aldalómë now joined by Eluandúnië. His arms were folded across his chest and his expression seemed tense and guarded as he turned in the direction Aldalómë was pointing. He looked tired and cold, making her feel guilty that he had given her his cloak since she did not have one. “Mount up.” Thranduil ordered as he walked toward Maeglir. “Just a little further boy, then we rest for the night.” He said quietly laying his cheek against the horses’ broad face as he stroked his thick strong neck. “Is everything alright?” She asked as he led the horse over to her. “Why wouldn’t it be?” He asked as he unfastened the cloak, still not looking at her as he wrapped it around his shoulders. “What was Aldalómë pointing at?” Tauriel pressed as he swung himself up into the saddle. “Nothing, now come.” He stated, finally looking at her as he reached down toward her, noting the slight redness on her cheeks from the chilly wind. Grasping her hand, he pulled her easily into the saddle in front of him, positioning her in front of him a little more gently than he had the first time. “It should be easier for you. We will not be moving quite as fast now.” He told her, grabbing the outer edge of the flowing cloak and wrapped it tightly around her. “Move.” He barked the order, his voice low yet carrying clearly through the chilly air as he shifted his weight slightly, launching Maeglir into a fast canter north toward the Old Forest Road. She watched from over the folds of the thick cloak as they assumed their normal formation with Aldalómë and Glaurhalbër in the lead and the other three guards flanking Thranduil, effectively boxing them in the middle. Her gaze dropped to his gloved hand as he held the reins loosely, again feeling him guiding the huge horse using slight pressure with his knees and subtle movement of his hips. Yet it also made her so much more aware of him, the strength in his arm as he held her tightly against the length of his hard body. She felt every movement against her as he tightened his thighs on the steeds’ wide girth and rocked his hips urging him forward at a faster pace. Smiling to himself, he slipped his arm further around her slender waist as he felt her lean back against him. Although his cloak was filled with her scent, he leaned down slightly, pressing his cheek against her temple, enjoying her closeness. He remembered her as a young elfling, she had been so frightened of Maeglir yet she enjoyed watching him ride from a distance as he raced him around the grassy fields. A slight smile curled his lips as he remembered her tantrums when he allowed some of the other elflings to ride him all by themselves, afraid they would fall off and get hurt. Shaking himself back to the present, Thranduil looked toward the desolate craggy slopes of the Misty Mountains just beyond the Anduin on their left. Scanning the rocky face, he looked for movement of any kind as both goblin and orc could easily blend in with the mottled gray and black coloring of the uneven and stony mountain side. Riding closer to the shores of Anduin provided good distance between them and forest, even though he wasn’t as much concerned with the shelob (spiders) at the moment. While they were only a small party, the evil at Dol Guldur had made the goblins restless and in some ways more daring, he was not willing to wager on their safety. Slowly the air turned colder as the sun began its descent behind the jagged outline of the mountain tops, casting long shadows across the Anduin. Still they pressed on toward a small landmark of stone outcroppings just beyond the Old Forest Road. It would be a safe place to make camp, giving them a break from the winds that had intensified and providing some semblance security. An uncomfortable feeling settled over her as they approached the semicircle of stone. Having served in the kings’ forest patrol for most of her adulthood, she recognized some of the hand signals as Eluandúnië and Glaurhalbër separated from the group, heading north. Macilvoronhûr and Rínnänéth split from them heading south as Aldalómë guided his mount toward them. His cold blue eyes flickered over her, Tauriel pressed instinctively tighter against the king as they waited in silence for them to return. Her uneasiness only grew as she watched the silent communication between them when the others returned. Strange glances and slight nods that told her nothing as they dismounted, moving into the cover of the rocks. “Stay here.” Thranduil told her as he once again pulled off his cloak and wrapped it around her shoulders. “What is it?” She asked, following him as he walked away from her. “Stay here.” He stated sharply, turning to face her, his face seemed as hard as the stones around them as he narrowed his eyes at her. Swallowing hard at the sudden change in his demeanor, Tauriel shrank back from him as he continued to glare at her. Still she felt the heat of her anger stinging her cheeks as her stomach twisted in knots as he turned away from her. She was not a defenseless child in need of his protection. She had proven her worth many times over as a captain in his forest patrol. Yet there was something in his gaze that silenced her. Clenching her teeth, she reluctantly turned away from him toward one of the larger stones and sank down in front of it. “Damn you!” She cursed him silently as she settled against the stone surface, wrapping the cloak tighter around her. She had little memory of her parents, their fortress palace and life under the kings’ protection was all she knew. There were others like her, elflings who had lost their parents, families and friends in wars who also lived there as wards of the king. He had taken a special interest in her and had lavished her with attention, allowing her to attend classes with Legolas, even training with him when she was old enough and she had excelled with the bow and the knife. Tauriel knew she owed him much yet she needed to prove herself worthy of the praise he so often heaped upon her. Yet deep down, she knew that was not the reason she had fought him so hard for his approval to join the forest patrol now many long years ago. “It will be dark soon.” Macilvoronhûr said quietly, interrupting her thoughts as he handed her another of the baked rolls and a flask of water. “There will be no fire tonight. We will move again before dawn.” “Why will he not talk to me?” She asked, meeting his soft green eyes as she accepted the food from him. She felt her anger rise again as he only smiled slightly and turned away from her. There was much history between them and she was nothing more than baggage. A mixture of both Sindar and Silvan, they had all grown up together under the rule of King Oropher, serving as captains in the forest patrol and had fought side by side in defense of the realm. A Sindar like the king, Aldalómës’ father, Lord Garävegión was the kings’ chief counselor and closest advisor. The two of them had been inseparable as elflings, along with Glaurhalbër, another Sindar who served as second in command in Aldalómës’ rare absences. Unlike what she knew of his father, the king did not appear to share the same opinion of Silvan elves as he had appointed a number of them to high ranking positions within his council. Yet, he always deferred to the council of the Sindar. It was dark by the time the king returned to her as she huddled against the stone, clinging to the warmth of the cloak. He remained silent, not looking at her has he dropped to his knees and brushed away loose stones and other debris at the base of the tallest of the jutting rocks. She could still make out the grim expression on his face as he looked up when Macilvoronhûr and Rínnänéth joined them. “You need to sleep.” He told her, there was no emotion in his tone as he pulled off his gloves, laying them aside as he reached for the clasp at her throat. “You’re freezing!” She exclaimed, his cold fingers brushed her chin as he unfastened the clasp. “I am fine.” He stated, frowning at her as he took her hand, pulling her with him as he laid down on the hard surface. Curling against her body as he drew the cloak over them, Thranduil stiffened as she snuggled closer to him. Swallowing with difficulty as she pressed her backside firmly against his groin, he struggled to remain still as the soft scent of lavender and lilac mingled with her own wafted through his senses with her squirming. Tall for a Silvan elf, her body molded so comfortably to his as he carefully adjusted his position, slipping his arm around her waist. The heat from her body slowly warmed him as he lay quietly, holding her and listening to her breathing. Frowning inwardly, he prepared himself for what he knew would be a very long night. “Even if we manage to slip quietly through the back gate word will spread.” Glaurhalbër said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper as they stood the first watch for the night. “Aye.” Aldalómë sighed, casting him a quick sideways glance. “Say nothing to no one.” He added as he turned his eyes back to the mountain side. The night passed slowly for all of them as Rínnänéth silently stepped back into their makeshift camp. Thrusting his chin toward the east as Aldalómë peered out from under the hood of his cloak, he gave him the signal that dawn would break shortly. Casting a quick glance toward the king, he nodded as Aldalómë shook his head, they would leave him sleep while they gathered the horses. Within minutes Thranduil emerged from behind the rocks, frowning at Aldalómë as he walked briskly toward him. They remained silent as the king turned to scan their surroundings even though he knew the others had already mounted and were waiting a short distance away. “This was a fools’ errand.” Aldalómë stated, finally breaking the silence between them. The disapproval clear in both his tone. “Not now.” Thranduil said quietly, folding his arms across his chest as if it would ward off the oncoming chill. Smelling the air, he turned toward the west, noting that the snow had crept even farther down the mountain slopes during the night. A heavy frost seemed to cover everything that wasn’t moving, sparkling like thousands of tiny diamonds as the pink light of a false dawn crept over the dense forest in the distance. He could hear the faint calls of the Morning Doves and Quail nesting in the tall grassy fields between them and the forest. Clicking his tongue, he called Maeglir to him, smiling as he heard him snort followed by the sound of his hooves as he cantered up to him. “Tonight you shall have the comfort of your warm stall and fresh sweet hay.” He told him softly, running his fingers through his mane as the huge steed nuzzled his chest. Patting the broad side of his thick neck, he grasped the reins and led him back toward the semicircle of rocks. “Tauriel.” He said softly, touching her shoulder. “Come, we need to leave.” Waking with a start, she stared up at him for a moment before pushing herself to her feet. She could see the concern etched in his features, yet there was something else about him that seemed slightly distant as he turned away from her. Frowning, she pulled the cloak tighter around her as she followed him. “I do not intend to stop until we are safely in the palace.” He said quietly as he rummaged in one of the saddle bags. “You need to eat before we start.” He told her, handing her one of the baked rolls as he turned back toward her. A slight shake of his head silenced her as he turned his attention to Maeglir, giving her the opportunity to eat. Frowning, she watched him as she ate in silence. The air was cold enough she could see his breath in the faint glow of morning, yet his gloves hung at his belt as he ran this bare fingers through the steeds mane and cross his face. Again she felt the bond between them, they seemed to speak to each other in a language only they knew and understood. “Like the language of lovers.” She thought, feeling the heat of her embarrassment staining her cheeks. That feeling only deepened as she remembered the feel of him as he curled his body around her so possessively through the night. The feel of his face buried in her hair at the back of her neck as he sought the heat from her body. “We need to go.” He stated, turning suddenly toward her, his icy fingers brushed her chin as he unfastened the clasp of the cloak. Unwilling to look at her face lest she read his thoughts, he kept his attention focused on the clasp and turned away from her as he swung it around his shoulders. Mounting quickly, he reached for her and pulled her quickly into the saddle in front of him. Pausing only long enough to retrieve his gloves before wrapping her once again in the cloak as he motioned Maeglir into a brisk walk toward the others who waited a short distance away. “Do you always read each other’s thoughts?” She asked, allowing her irritation to show slightly as she watched them exchange glances and then shift to a different formation. “Sometimes.” Thranduil told her quietly, slipping his arm tighter around her as he caught the sideways glances from both Aldalómë and Eluandúnië. Pursing her lips in frustration, Tauriel ignored them and turned her gaze toward the distant forest, yet she could not ignore the possessive way he held her so tightly against him. She felt the heat of embarrassment rising in her cheeks as she was forced to lean against the length of him, her thoughts turning to the way he held her last night. The heat from his body radiated through her as he slept, burying his face in her neck as chilly fingers of cold air seeped beneath the heavy cloak. All too soon the edge of the forest loomed before them as they descended the sloping field. The guards moved to single file, Aldalómë in the lead and the king in center as they approached the Great Horned Gate, the start of the elven path through the forest. Passing through the gate, an eerie darkness engulfed them almost as if night had fallen, the foul stench of decay drifted on the subtle current of air that seemed to come from everywhere yet nowhere. Illuminated with elven magic, the path was still dim as it wound its’ way for almost one hundred and fifty miles through dense clusters of gnarled and twisted trunks, heavily draped in thick vines of poison sumac. “Be still.” He said quietly close to her ear, tightening his hold on her as he dropped his other hand down to grasp the hilt of his sword. Hindered by the colder temperatures in the winter months, most of the shelob (spiders) nests were closer to the tree tops where the branches still protected then from the gusting winds and the air was slightly warmer during the day. The forest grew more densely here, forcing them to move at a much slower pace than Thranduil would have preferred, the guards maintained a tight line and steady forward pace with their bows at the ready. Unless they felt threatened or very hungry, they were usually not interested in attacking such a large group on horseback verses a single rider or a small group on foot. Yet they could feel the eyes of the shelob (spiders) watching and hear the snapping of twigs and smaller branches beneath their weight as they followed them along the path from up above. Suddenly the forest seemed to open up as the trees began to thin out, allowing them to move at a faster pace toward the Enchanted River that flowed from the center of the Mirkwood Mountains, winding its way through underground aquafers beneath the elven halls. Reaching the river, the small boats were not meant to ferry the horses across, forcing them to follow it north until it joined the Forest River that flowed south from the Grey Mountains. Securing their weapons as they reached the rivers junction, they waited at the shoreline as the oarsmen guided the barge across. As if sensing they were almost home, the horses were almost eager to climb up on the broad unsteady platform. Unlike the barges in Lórinand which were designed to haul large heavy loads for trading with the dwarves of Moria and the woodsmen of Gianduin, it took two trips for the entire party to cross. Continuing north, the shadows grew longer as the sun dipped into the western mountain peaks, they made their way toward the stable area at the rear of the elven halls. “Aldalómë.” Thranduil stated just loud enough to be heard, reining Maeglir to a halt as the large stable doors came into view. “What does that mean?!” Tauriel asked more sharply as she watched him hold up his hand, pointing his finger upward as he made a spinning motion when the Chief March Warden turned to look back at him. “Nothing.” Thranduil said quietly, smiling as he felt her body stiffen and knew she was getting frustrated and angry with him. His arm tightened around her as he watched them enter the stable while he remained in the shadows. “I am not a child!” She hissed through clenched teeth as she twisted in the saddle to glare at him. “I did not say you were.” He said softly, smiling as he gazed into her flashing angry eyes. He leaned forward slightly, feeling her breath on his lips. Shocked into silence Tauriel felt her head swim as he jerked his hips forward sending Maeglir nearly running into the stables. “Take her the back way.” Thranduil ordered, pulling her easily with him as he swung his long frame down from the saddle. Confused, Tauriel only gasped as Glaurhalbër and Rínnänéth stepped up beside her, whisking her quickly through a side door that led into various storage rooms. “Take me where?!” She demanded as they continued silently through yet another door into a narrow tunnel that felt like it was going upward. This was a part of the palace she had never been in and had no idea where they were taking her or why. Chapter End Notes Thanks again for reading! Comments are always welcome! ***** Gilded Cage ***** Chapter Summary Tensions grow between Thranduil and Tauriel but not the way he would have preferred. After keeping her confined within the luxurious guest room near his personal chambers, supposedly to give her time to think and reflect, Thranduil finds a very angry Tauriel on his first visit to her in a month. Much more accustomed to members of the fairer sex being more eager for his attention, he responds in typical Thranduil fashion by taunting her with the knowledge of her personal exploits with Legolas. While they deny it to themselves, their feelings for each other continue to grow. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “It has been a month.” Galion said quietly as he poured a cup of spiced apple tea and handed it to the king. “How long do you intend to torment her?” He added, arching a brow. “Is that what I’m doing?” Thranduil smiled sweetly from behind guarded eyes as he accepted the cup. “She simply needs time.” “Time for what?” Galion pressed, seating himself opposite him as the king looked away from him to gaze into the hearth. The only sound was the soft crackling of the logs in the enormous hearth as Galion studied him from over the rim of his cup. The kings’ expression was now guarded and unreadable, even to him who had known him for most of his life. Their losses had been heavy during the battle in the shadows of the Lonely Mountain. Galion knew this weighed heavy on the kings’ mind and heart. While Tauriels’ departure had angered him, it was the absence of his only child that brought him the most pain. “Or is it you who needs the time?” Galion ventured as the silence stretched too long between them, a slow smile curling his lips as his soft green eyes narrowed slightly. “Whatever do you mean?” Thranduil asked, tilting his head as he looked at him innocently. “She is young and grows more frustrated by the day.” Galion told him, pausing to take a sip of his tea. “Tauriel has never been known for her patience.” “Neither is she known for understanding her place.” Thranduil replied casually, yet there was an odd look in his sapphire eyes as he turned to look at his longtime friend and personal servant. “And what place is that?” Galion chuckled, although he already knew the answer recognizing the slight curl of the kings’ lips. “Patience is a virtue.” The king replied, turning his attention back to the dancing flames in the hearth. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ “Why will you not answer my questions?” Tauriel demanded more than asked. Her dark green eyes flashed angrily as she swung to face Eluandúnië, the only one of the kings’ personal guards that treated her with some degree of politeness. “You know as well as I do, the king does not explain himself.” He replied, his tone far more calm than he felt as he watched her turn away from him. “For what purpose has he dragged me back here?! Only to ignore me!!” She continued to question him, folding her arms beneath her breasts as she paced the length of the sitting room. “Have I not suffered enough?!” Tears stung the backs of her eyes as she paced, stubbornly she blinked them away. Refusing to give him the pleasure of reporting her weakness to Aldalómë, it would only get back to the king. Alone for the most part, with only her thoughts and memories to keep her company, she neither wanted or needed his pity and longed for the freedom of the forest. Striding purposefully toward the bed chamber, Tauriel felt the tears leak down her cheeks as the memory of Kili overwhelmed her. The pain of her loss was only intensified when Legolas abandoned her. Slamming the door behind her, she threw herself onto the bed, burying her face in the soft pillow as she let them flow freely. “I hate you!” She screamed into the pillow, the ache deep within her grew to a sharp pain as if a knife had suddenly been plunged into her heart. So were all the days that passed, she suffered in silence within the private rooms assigned to her. The guards came and went, her questions falling on deaf ears, their stoic expressions revealing nothing. Silent servants brought her meals, straightened her rooms and lighting the fires at night. Each day fading into the next, her tears fell less often yet the memories still haunted her dreams. Against her will, Tauriel found herself succumbing to the monotonous routine of life within the spacious rooms that had become her prison. Sitting quietly in front of the hearth, Tauriel frowned slightly as she heard a soft knock on the door at such a late hour. The evening meal had long since passed, the servants had collected the tray and brought her a fresh pot of cinnamon spiced hazel nut tea. Her gaze remained fixed on the flames that danced on the logs in the hearth, knowing it was little more than a courtesy as the guard would enter with or without her summons. “Tauriel.” Turning quickly at the sound of his voice, she rose hastily to her feet. A myriad of emotions washed over her as she stared at the guarded face of the king. Stiffening slightly as she stepped back from him, she rested her hands on the back of the chair where she had been sitting. “My Lord.” She stated, meeting his gaze evenly. “Are you afraid of me?” Thranduil asked quietly as he approached her, arching a brow as his eyes moving over the length of her. “Should I be?” Tauriel asked, her eyes narrowing slightly as she tilted her chin almost defiantly toward him. “You never had a reason to be afraid of me before, why would you now?” He said quietly as he stopped within arm’s length of her. The tone of his voice carried the soft lilt of humor that grated on her. Unconsciously her fingers gripped the back of the chair as they stood there for long moments just staring at each other, her thoughts jumbled over each other. “You have never held me prisoner before.” Tauriel stated, struggling to control her anger as he smiled at her, tilting his head curiously. “I can understand why Legolas would desire you.” Thranduil said in a distracted tone, enjoying the flash of anger in her eyes as he appeared to absently wet his lips with the tip of his tongue. “I assure you My Lord...” “You can assure me of nothing. I know my son.” He interrupted her as he stepped slightly closer, his smile broadening as he watched her eyes widen. “Did you really think your little trysts were not known to me? Do you really think you were the only one?” He continued, arching a brow at her yet he watched her every movement. “How dare you!” She hissed, lashing out instinctively only to cry out in pain as he quickly snatched her wrist. “I dare whatever I chose.” Thranduil breathed heatedly in her ear as he twisted her arm behind her and pinioned her tightly against him. “Once I saw the way you looked at each other, did you really think I would not know?” He asked as he leaned down closer, purposefully brushing her neck with his lips as he spoke. “I hate you!” She hissed as she tried to pull free of his grasp, only to feel his arms tighten around her, pressing her against the length of him. Fresh tears stinging the backs of her eyes as she felt the hardness of his desire against her the small of her back as he kissed her neck softly. As angry as she was with him, the realization of her own desires overwhelmed her making her tremble. “There is a way one looks at another when there is only desire.” He whispered, brushing his lips against her ear as he spoke. “Yet it is something quite different once one has come to know another.” He continued, his voice barely above a whisper as he breathed in the scent of her. “What about you?!” She demanded, turning her face away from him. “I just wanted you to know that I knew.” He said quietly, kissing her temple then suddenly released her. “Damn you!” Tauriel exclaimed as he turned away from her, striding purposefully toward the door. “Tell Aldalómë I wish to speak with him.” Thranduil informed Macilvoronhûr as he pulled the door closed behind him. “Lock it.” He added as the guards eyes glanced quickly at the door. “As you wish.” The guard answered with a quick nod. Shaking his head as the king turned away from him, he locked the door and went in the opposite direction. Smiling to himself, Thranduil walked purposefully around the corner and down the steps to his more private areas within the palace. The scent of the lavender and lilac soap mingled with her own seemed to cling to him as he entered the lower chambers. “Tell Aldalómë not to bother knocking.” He informed the guard as he reached the bottom of the stairs into his private audience chamber. “My Lord.” Thalieth replied quietly, nodding as the king strode passed him without pausing. Entering his private study he moved straight to the wine cabinet, collecting two goblets and a carafe of his preferred Dorwinion wine. Although the evening had grown late it was still early enough he knew the Chief March Warden would still be awake. Setting the carafe and the goblets on a small table between the two tall chairs before the hearth, he set about lighting the logs himself. There had been no need to leave instructions for the servants to light this one as he normally conducted his daily business immediately following the morning meal, preserving his evenings for his own leisure. “You are a fool.” Aldalómë stated as he closed the door behind him, his blue eyes guarded as he walked toward him. They had known each other since they were young elflings and was one of only a handful who could speak his mind to him. “Starting tomorrow Tauriel may come and go as she pleases within the confines of the palace.” Thranduil stated as he leaned forward, filling the other goblet for him. “I expect that you will still keep an eye on her.” He added, noting the curious look from Aldalómë as he accepted the goblet. “What did you do?” Aldalómë sighed heavily as he sank into the comfort of the padded chair opposite the king. “She has a fire in her.” Thranduil said quietly, his eyes dancing as he smiled devilishly from over from over the rim of his goblet. “Yes, and you’re going to get burned if you keep stoking it.” He chided him as he watched the odd play of expressions across the kings’ face. Frowning slightly when Thranduil only laughed softly and shifted his position in the chair. “You can have any elleth (elf maiden) you want, why this one?” He asked, shaking his head but couldn’t help smile at him as he relaxed back in the chair. “I could also have my choice of quite a few ellyn’s (male elf) but where’s the challenge in that?” Thranduil laughed and took a long drink from his goblet. “She still mourns for the dwarf and pines after Legolas.” Aldalómë stated, his disapproval clearly visible by his deep frown. “This cannot lead to anything good.” “I cannot let her go.” Thranduil said quietly as he looked down into the dark liquid in his goblet. “Cannot or will not?” Aldalómë pressed him, arching a brow when the king only glared at him. “Either way it does not matter.” Thranduil snapped at him, flashing him an angry glare before turning to gaze into the leaping flames in the heart. “She belongs here.” He said quietly after long moments. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ “Damn him! Damn him! Damn him!” Tauriel ranted as she paced along the rug in front of the hearth. Resting one elbow in her hand, she covered the place on her neck where kissed her, the heat of his lips had shaken her. The scent of him lingered, a strong scent of sandalwood mingled with the softer scent of Niphredil, the white star flowers found throughout the forest. She could still smell the sweet scent of his breath as he whispered to her. Slowly as her anger began to fade, she remembered not only the strength in his arms and the heat that emanated from him as he held her so tightly against the hard length of his body, but his clear desire for her. Closing her eyes as the heat of her blush stung her cheeks. Against her will her thoughts turned to those stolen evenings under the stars with Legolas. How gentle he was with her, treating her as if she were made of fine spun glass afraid she would shatter at the slightest touch. The king was so different, everything about him from the way he looked at her, the way he held her, the heat of his breath, even his whispered voice was far more bold and it excited her. “Oh my God!” She choked as the full realization of her thoughts hit her. Nearly jumping to her feet, she hurried toward her bathing chamber. Stripping off the gown she had selected that morning, she left it in a pile on the floor. Lifting the small lever on the back of the copper tub that provided a continuous flow of heated water from the huge copper vats in the kitchen, she sank down into it. Pouring generous amounts of the scented soap onto a washing cloth, she set about vigorously scrubbing every inch of her body, determined to remove even the slightest scent of him. Stopping her task only when the water had cooled enough to chill her, rinsing away the soap, she pushed herself out of the tub and hurriedly dried off as she went into her bed chamber. Slipping beneath the covers, she hugged the overly soft pillow and felt the tears stinging the backs of her eyes. The scent of him might be gone but the other memories still haunted her as she lay quietly. Willing herself to go to sleep, it would be long into the night before sleep found her as her mind tormented her with the memories of how he held her, the unwanted feelings he had stirred within her as he cuddled against her under the cloak. Jolted awake as she felt someone touching her arm, Tauriel sat straight up in the bed, clutching the blanket up over her breasts as the servant jumped back. She stared wide eyed at the young elleth (elf maiden) who normally brought her the tray for her morning meal. “I didn’t mean to startle you but you were sleeping so heavily you didn’t hear me.” The elleth (elf maiden) said shyly, still staring at her. “Glaurhalbër asked me to give you this.” She said as she handed her a small sealed envelope. “Thank you.” Tauriel said quietly as she accepted it and watched her disappear silently. Looking at the plain envelope that could have been meant for anyone, she hesitated for a moment before tearing it open. It was a very brief message informing her that she was free to enjoy her meals in the dining hall, her gaze lingered on the scrawling signature that she recognized as his own handwriting. There was no official seal nothing that would indicate who it was from much less the king. Laying it on the stand as she pushed herself out of the bed, angry with herself for feeling slighted when she didn’t even have the right to expect anything personal from him. Berating herself as she pulled the brush through the tangled mass of her reddish auburn hair, frustrated at herself for going to bed without waiting for it to dry. Rummaging through the gowns in the huge wardrobe, wondering not for the first time where they had come from, particularly since they all seemed to fit her perfectly. Choosing a deep midnight blue silk with long sleeves, she quickly slipped it over her head and struggled for a bit with the row of tiny of buttons that ran down the bodice. She still missed the more comfortable fit of her uniform, yet they were nowhere to be found. Opening the door, she paused for a brief moment before striding past the guard as she made her way to the dining hall. The enormous room was already quite full, she heard the low hum of many conversations before she even entered, scanning the tables quickly for a vacant seat. Almost as if drawn there like a magnet, her gaze moved to the raised dais at the far end of the room where the king and his council were seated. Turning away as quickly as she met his gaze, she headed toward a table where she had seen a couple of her former patrol friends sitting. “Tauriel! Where have you been!?” Eréndriël asked excitedly as she waved her over. “Yes! Sit with us, we heard rumor you were back.” Gäérrÿk chimed with a grin. “We thought you might have headed north with Legolas.” “I was visiting friends in Lórinand.” She answered both of their questions as she took the seat beside Eréndriël. “So much for your idea of romance.” Gäérrÿk teased, flashing a grin at Eréndriël. “When are you coming back to the patrols?” He asked more seriously, turning his attention back to Tauriel. “That is up to the king.” Tauriel replied quietly as she glanced around the room, looking for any of the other captains. Frowning slightly as she caught sight of Glaurhalbër standing stoically at the door she had entered. Turning quickly toward the other door she saw Eluandúnië and knew that while she had a level of freedom, she was still being guarded. “Are you in trouble?” Eréndriël asked, her soft green eyes growing wide with concern. “No, I’m not in trouble.” Tauriel said quickly, giving her a slight hug. “I will say only that the king is not very pleased with me at the moment and we will let the subject drop.” She added more firmly, noting the quick glances between the two of them. It was good to have her friends to talk to and hear the reports of what was happening out in the forest. They were still battling with nests of the shelob (spiders) but seemed to be making some progress at driving them farther south almost as far as the Mirkwood Mountains but they still returned. They talked a little about the battle at the Lonely Mountain but mostly the slaying of Smaug and the rebuilding of both the new city of Lake Town which was now situated on the shore of the lake and the efforts to assist the former residents of Dale in rebuilding their city as well. All too soon the meal ended as they needed to get back to their posts. “Will we see later?” Eréndriël asked, giving her a tight hug. “Perhaps.” Tauriel told her, returning the hug fiercely. “It really is good to see both of you again.” She said as she hugged Gäérrÿk as well before turning and heading toward the door. Casting one final glance back at the dais, she frowned slightly as she noticed that the king had already left. Since she was not explicitly told she could go anywhere except the dining hall, she made her way back to her rooms. Her heart was a little lighter with the knowledge that she was at least allowed that much and she didn’t want to do anything that would change his mind. She didn’t need to look behind her to know that Glaurhalbër had followed her at a respectable distance, still giving her the illusion of freedom. “Did you enjoy your conversation with your friends?” Thranduil asked quietly, arching a brow at her as she entered the sitting room. Tauriel froze at the sound of his voice, sending her hair flying as she turned quickly toward the hearth. Instantly overwhelmed with emotions as she focused on his face, stiffening as his eyes seemed to rake over her body yet they held her gaze, the almost taunting way he tilted his head to the side. “Why am I here?” She asked as she moved toward him, stopping behind the chair in front of him. “I want you here, this is where you belong.” Thranduil replied as he rose from the chair and walked toward her. “You want!” Tauriel spat angrily, her entire body stiffening as she glared at him. “What about what I want?!" She demanded more than asked, her chin lifting in defiance. “You do not know what you want.” He said quietly as he stepped closer to her. Part of him wanting to leave yet he remained, watching the rise and fall of her breasts as she stood there defying him as only she could do. “Damn you!” She hissed, resisting the urge to lash out at him as she clenched her hands into fists at her sides. As relaxed as he seemed, she knew better and the last thing she wanted right now was to give him any more control over her. “Such a biting tongue for one so beautiful.” He said quietly as he moved slightly closer to her. Smiling almost tauntingly at how easily he could ignite the fire within her. “Do you know your eyes shine like emeralds when you’re angry?” He asked in the same quiet tone, the tip of his tongue wetting the surface of his bottom lip. “Stop treating me like a child!” She nearly screamed as she turned away from him. Moving toward the hearth, putting the chair between them. “Perhaps if you did not act like one I would not feel the need.” He said quietly, the taunting smile returning to his lips as he watched her. “Why won’t you leave me in peace?” She asked as she folded her arms beneath her breasts, her eyes narrowing as she watched his expression harden slightly. “If that is what you want, then you shall have it.” He stated far more calmly than he felt as he gave her a slight nod and turned on his heel away from her. “You bastard!” She hissed as she watched the door close behind him. Chapter End Notes Again thanks for reading! So far the story has not been to the level of explicit sexual encounters as the greater majority of my writings, however, that will change as the story progresses. Comments are always welcome! ***** A Change of Heart ***** Chapter Summary While desires burn hotter within the fortress palace of Mirkwood and Thranduil begins to win Tauriels’ heart, it may all be for naught as trouble threatens on the horizon. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes Lounging comfortably in his favorite chair before the hearth, Thranduil watched the flames as he allowed his mind to wander. Accustomed to having his thoughts divided, he listened to Galions’ endless chatter as to the comings and goings within the palace. He nodded and commented at all the right moments so he would think he was actually paying attention to him. It was mostly just gossip but he had learned long ago that he could glean bits and pieces from it that could prove useful in dealing with certain people and situations. Allowing the woodsmen temporary permission to thin out some of the trees in the more densely overgrown areas had proven effective in controlling the shelob, (spiders) it had stayed their encroachment toward the palace. Unfortunately it had cost him more in the way of using troops to protect them rather than their normal patrols of the outer edges of the forest. His feelings of restlessness only intensified as his thoughts turned to his latest argument Tauriel with her persistent requests that now become demands that she be allowed to return to the forest patrol. “What you are doing is wrong Thranduil and I think you know this.” Galions’ voice interrupted his thoughts, the disapproval resonating in his tone. “What?” He frowned deeply as he turned to face him. “I am only trying to protect her. I don’t want her fleeing back to Lórinand.” Thranduil stated defensively, taking a long drink from his goblet as he eyed him suspiciously. “You are hunting her as if she were little more than prey.” He retorted angrily. “One you have cornered and yet you still toy with her. You have always treated her as if she were your own child, not to mention she was a loyal captain in the patrol and served you well for many years, she deserves better than this.” He scolded him as if he were still the young elfling he knew centuries ago when his father and the other Sindar arrived in Greenwood the Great. “You would not understand.” Thranduil groaned angrily as he rose to his feet to stand closer to the hearth. “My preferences may lie with ellyn (male elf) but I am far from ignorant in the ways of elleth. (Elf maiden) Why don’t you try to explain it to me?” He said quietly, studying him now as he watched the strange play of expressions chase themselves across the kings’ normally guarded face. “There is a fire in her that stirs something deep within me.” Thranduil said as he watched the flames in the hearth. “A passion I have not felt in many long years.” He added, his tone dropping to almost a whisper. “Yes, I have watched her closely for many years.” He continued quietly, turning to briefly look at the servant who was also his friend before looking back to the flames. “Tauriel has always been special. She is not one that is impressed by power or titles yet the crown is all she sees when she looks at me.” He sighed heavily as he looked down into the dark liquid in his goblet. “And you would rather she see you and not the crown.” Galion commented, a knowing smile curled his lips. “Is that so wrong?” Thranduil asked, turning to look at him. “Might I offer you a bit of advice?” Galion asked, arching a brow at him. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ Reluctantly Tauriel pushed herself out of the bed and made her way to the bathing chamber. It had been nearly two weeks since the king had visited her. She knew she had pushed him too far when he sent word that she was no longer permitted the freedom of the palace after the evening meal which would be brought to her rooms. Sighing heavily as she thought of his empty seat on the dais for the morning and midday meals in the dining hall. Filling the small basin, she set about the task of freshening herself for the day. Staring at herself in the polished glass, she looked the same yet she hardly recognized the sadness in the depths of the eyes that stared back at her. Sadness, loneliness and anger seemed to fill her days. Sadness for a love that might have been as she thought of Kili. She felt both sadness and loneliness at the loss of Legolas, who had been like a brother to her, a friend and companion until things changed with a single glance. “There is a way one looks at another when there is only desire.” The kings’ words came back to haunt her as she remembered that first time with Legolas, when she had so freely given herself to him. “Yet it is something quite different once one has come to know another.” He had taunted her with his knowledge of her private life. Anger rose in her heart as she stared at herself, thinking of him. The king was very beautiful and many a young maiden had desired him, herself included. Color seeped into her cheeks as she remembered how shamelessly she had flirted with him so long ago. He had been so sweet yet it was clear to her that he saw her as nothing more than the daughter he would never have, politely but appreciatively declining her advances. It hurt terribly but she had contented herself for a time with his view of her until her desires grew stronger and his fatherly embraces only tormented her. “What is different now?” She silently asked the face that stared blankly back at her. Swallowing hard as she remembered the feel of his arms around her, the scent of him through the sandalwood and Niphredil. Even now she could smell the sweet scent of his breath and feel the heat where his lips had touched her skin. She remembered the feel the hardness of his desire as he held her, pressing her against him, as if he wanted her to know. Tears stung the backs of her eyes as her thoughts turned to Legolas, questioning whether she had really loved him or merely used him as a substitute for what she could not have. She had to mean more to him than just a wayward child, somehow he had known where she had gone and had personally travelled to Lórinand to bring her back. “Stop it!” She scolded herself out loud as she turned away from the glass, striding purposefully back into her bed chamber. Stopping in her tracks as her gaze fell on the small settee at the foot of the bed. Draped neatly over the arm was a full set of forest green winter riding clothes with a pair of new boots sitting on the floor in front of it. Frowning slightly as she saw the small folded piece of parchment and the Länciföliûm flower, hesitantly she picked it up and unfolded it. Trembling as she recognized the kings’ handwriting, she read the words he wrote. “Tauriel, I would like your company this morning. Please meet me in the stables. Thranduil.” Gently she picked up the cluster of tiny yellow flowers, admiring them as she smelled them. She felt her heart leap as she realized that he had to have brought the new clothes and the flower himself as the message was not in a sealed envelope. The language of flowers was very personal among the elves more commonly reserved for courtly flirtations and secret messages between lovers’ yet the message of the Länciföliûm confused her. Its apologetic meaning was diverse and could be given as a way of telling someone you were sorry for anything ranging from having wronged them or letting them know you share in their sorrow for their loss of a loved one or a friend. Excitedly, she snatched up the under garments and quickly began the task of dressing herself for her first chance in months to be out of the palace and in her beloved forest. Frowning for a brief instant as she buttoned up the front of it, admiring herself in the tall silvered glass, she wondered where it had come from as it fit her body perfectly. As quickly as the thought occurred to her, it flittered from her mind as she grabbed up the brush on her dressing table. Raking it through the tangled mass, she hurriedly braided the length of it into one long rope down her back. Chuckling softly as Maeglir nuzzled his chest, Thranduil hugged him as he reached up to comb his fingers through the long white mane. He knew he sensed his nervousness and tried to settle him with soft spoken praises taking his time as he brushed and groomed him before saddling him up. They were not going to be out long, just a short ride for some much needed fresh air and a little exercise. Catching sight of her in his peripheral vision, he turned and smiled warmly as Tauriel approached him. “I am glad you could join me.” He said quietly as she reached him. “I cannot ride out alone.” He added apologetically as she glanced toward the guards who pulled themselves up onto their mounts and made their way through the wide double doors. Quickly pulling himself up into the saddle, he smiled as he reached for her. “Please?” He added when she hesitated. Grasping her hand firmly, he gently lifted her to him and positioned her comfortably in front of him. Wrapping his cloak around her as he nudged Maeglir forward with a slight motion of his hips. Smiling to himself as he felt her relax back against him, he slipped his arm around her waist and followed the guards through the doors heading north. Closing her eyes, Tauriel breathed in the fresh air. It was safer here as there were no shelob (spider) nests above the Forest River, the heaviest concentration seemed to be in the larger area east of the Enchanted River, just north of the Mirkwood Mountains. Unlike the journey home, he did not hold her as possessively, yet she felt his ungloved hand absently caressing her hip as he rested his arm comfortably around her waist. Through the thick veil of her lashes she watched the guards slowly spread out in the distance to give them some degree of privacy yet remained close enough to protect them if they were in any danger. “Then stop being the king and be yourself.” Galions’ words rang in his ears as he leaned forward pressing his cheek against her temple. Content at the moment for the quiet closeness they shared as they wandered farther into the forest. “Beautiful.” Tauriel sighed as they entered a large glade surrounded by thick evergreens. The sound of the waterfall was soft and comforting. “Just west of Amon Lanc there was one like this.” Thranduil said quietly. “When I was young I used to go there with some friends and swim in the lake beneath the falls.” “It must have been a very beautiful place.” She said softly, turning her head to look up at him. “It was.” He smiled down at her, placing a soft kiss on her forehead. “When I think of those times I feel old.” He chuckled, arching his brows slightly. “You are not old.” She stated, leaning against him. “Age can mean everything and yet nothing at all.” She said quietly. “Strange but wise words from one so young.” He told her, dropping the reins around the saddle horn as he embraced her with both arms beneath the cover of the cloak. “But then age is not always measured in years.” He added, pressing his cheek against hers as he used his knees the guide Maeglir passed the falls and through the evergreens. Pulling the cloak tighter around them, Tauriel savored every moment with him. Leaning back against him, she breathed in the scent of him as she gazed out at the forest. Absently watching as the evergreens faded into tall leafless oaks, birch and elm trees of winter, she wondered what life was like when the Sindar first came to what was then called Greenwood the Great. She felt a deep sadness for him, to have lived so long to see his beloved Woodland Ream darkened by the taint of evil. Relaxing his arms around her as he let Maeglir wander where ever he chose, Thranduil found her hands within the folds of the cloak. Toying with her fingers and tracing teasing patterns over her palms, he found himself rambling about the forest he remembered long ago. Pointing out the various shrubs and the remnants of trailing vines by name, describing them when they would be in full bloom in the spring. He told her about the clearing work being done in the other parts of the forest by the woodsmen. “Will you dine with me tonight?” Thranduil asked quietly, kissing her temple as they neared the stable gate at the rear of the palace. “I think I would like that.” Tauriel replied quietly, turning to smile up at him as she squeezed his hands under the cover of the cloak. Leaning down, he playfully rubbed his nose against hers as he slipped his arms tighter around her. Frowning inwardly as the huge doors came into view, he knew their time together had ended for the time being. There were things that needed to be discussed between them before he allowed it to go any farther between them. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ “You sent for me?” Galion asked curiously as he entered Thranduils’ private study. “Yes, I did.” Thranduil stated, smiling as he looked up from the papers strewn over his desk. “Close the door please." He added, pushing himself to his feet. “I wanted to properly thank you for your advice.” He continued, a mischievous smile curing his lips as he stepped around his desk. “I take it you actually listened to something I said for once.” Galion laughed as he closed the door and turned to face him. “Thran...” Caught off guard by the strong embrace as Thranduil captured his mouth in a long searching kiss, he forced himself to relax against him. Struggling for breath beneath the onslaught of the hungry mouth that now possessed his own, he clung to the taller body for support as Thranduil ravished his mouth for long moments. “What advice did I give you?” He asked breathlessly as Thranduil released his mouth yet still held him tightly in his embrace. “Tauriel has agreed to dine with me tonight.” He stated as he leaned back to smile down at him. “Wonderful!” Galion replied as Thranduil released him and walked back to his chair behind his desk. “So, your little outing this morning went well I presume?” He asked as he plopped into the comfortable chair in front of the desk. “Well, we did not fight and she did not curse me!” Thranduil laughed as he leaned back in his chair. “It was very enjoyable.” He added in a softer voice yet his eyes danced with a light of their own. “So why do I sense there is more?” Galion asked, pinioning him with a frown as he curled his legs up under him in the chair. “I intend to be completely honest with her.” He stated with a heavy sigh as he met Galions’ gaze evenly. “About everything.” “Everything?” Galion asked, raising his brow at him. “Are you sure you want to do that?” “I have wronged her enough already.” Thranduil said, his voice thick with guilt as he laid his head back, staring at the ceiling. “You are right. She deserves better than what I have done to her since I forced her to return. I can only hope that she does not reject me completely out of hand.” He said quietly as he returned his gaze to his friend. “You are telling me this I suppose because it include us?” He asked studying him. “I will not if you do not wish it.” Thranduil said thoughtfully, returning the same scrutinizing gaze. “But I have no intentions of giving you up.” “I see.” Galion said quietly, his expression turning inward for a few moments. “It’s no secret that my preferences are for ellyn. (male elf) My concern is for you.” He stated after long moments. “I do not want anything to change between us.” He told him as he got up from behind his desk, moving toward the small wine cupboard. “She will need time.” He sighed as he poured them both a small goblet of wine. “If it is something she cannot accept, it is better that she know now than to cause her more pain later.” He said as he handed him one of the goblets. “Yes.” Galion sighed, accepting the goblet. “Not telling her could make her feel as if you have betrayed her, especially if she should hear from someone else.” “I have never flaunted my private matters.” Thranduil stated as he sank back down into his chair. “Still I am very aware that there are eyes and ears everywhere no matter how careful one is about such matters.” “I think it would be more comfortable for her if things are simple tonight.” Thranduil stated when the silence in the room stretched uncomfortably. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ Sensing a great anger and pain within him, Lenwë was quiet as he studied the young prince of Mirkwood. The differences between the two were striking to say the least as Lenwë thought back on the day when his father had first visited as an exile in Lórinand. Unfortunately his state of mind brought out far more of his grandfathers’ traits than those of his father, particularly Thranduils’ mastery of the art of diplomacy in such situations. “I do not understand why everything surrounding my father is cloaked in such secrecy.” Legolas stated, a small muscle in his jaw extending slightly as he spoke. “It is not about being secretive.” Lenwë told him quietly. “Lórinand has always been known as a place of solitude for those who seek it and it is given.” “Tauriel came here searching for that.” Legolas stated, his gaze flickering angrily about the room as if he searched for his words. “Yet he came here and he forced her to return with him. Who was helping her?” He asked, finally turning his eyes toward the Lord of the Vale. “Your father is very private.” Lenwë said as a frown creased his normally smooth brow. “Even if I were one to share the business of others, in this matter I cannot help you as he did not discuss it with me. Certainly you must know that your fathers’ reach outside of Mirkwood is long indeed.” “I am beginning to understand this.” Legolas said quietly, his gaze once more shifting about the room before coming to rest on the flames on the hearth. “You are more than welcome to stay here if you would like.” Lenwë informed him as he rose to his feet. “I will have Tíránist show you to a room or you may follow the path to the inn within Lórinand.” “How far is it?” Legolas asked, pushing himself up from the comfort of the chair. “Not far.” Lenwë replied. “But I will warn you now young prince. The more questions you ask, the less answers you will get.” “Thank you for your hospitality and your council.” Legolas stated, nodding respectfully to the lord. “If you do not mind, I will go on to Lórinand.” “Tíránist.” Lenwë called out quietly but clearly once the young prince has departed. “My lord?” Tíránist answered quickly, stepping just inside the sitting room. “Take a horse from the stable and go quickly by the way of the edge of the forest to the Lady Gilaiwë. Tell her that the Prince of Mirkwood has arrived.” Lenwë informed him. “Thranduil, I hope you know what you are doing.” He sighed to himself, sinking back down in the chair as the servant departed to deliver the message. Chapter End Notes Thank you for reading!! ***** Trouble in Paradise ***** Chapter Summary Thranduil keeps his word to Galion about speaking the truth to Tauriel, yet he does not name who his other partners are. His best- laid plans have now created a wide divide between them as Tauriel retreats from him. Will he be able to win her back? Will he try? Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes Standing back, Thranduil surveyed the sitting area before the enormous hearth in his public room. He wanted everything to be perfect for what he knew could possibly be the first and the last time he shared private moments with Tauriel. He had only made a few changes. The long multicolored braided rug that normally lay in front of the hearth had been replaced with thick furs to make it more comfortable for sitting. He had also brought out a few large pillows that were soft yet sturdy enough to lean against. Satisfied that it would suit his purposes for the evening, he made his way into his bath chamber to get ready. Smiling to himself as he stripped down and climbed into the long deep copper tub, he let his thoughts wander to his outing with Tauriel that morning. Although the forest was undeniably more beautiful in the warmer months, he enjoyed the privacy his winter cloak had provided for his roaming hands. Slathering himself with the scented soap, his smile turned mischievous as he thought of the possibility of future outings where he could be a little bolder with his roaming fingers. Even as he daydreamed of such things, there was the ever present knot in his stomach that she may reject him. While she seemed more than enamored with him at the moment, elleth’s (elf maiden) were more often less willing to accept or excuse certain indiscretions. The bond between himself and Galion was strong, he had been his friend, confidante and lover for over three millennia and he was not willing to give him up. He knew too that she still had feelings for Legolas and while it was true, he had been cruel to tell her that she was not the only elleth (elf maiden) that had appreciated the intimate comforts from his son. These were things she would need to work out on her own and in her own way. He felt a deep sadness for her at the loss of the dwarf. Yet in some ways he felt the finality of his death would be easier for her find a place in her heart to keep his memory than it will be with her feelings for his son. Lifting himself from the still steaming water, he quickly toweled himself dry before heading into his bed chamber. Throwing open the doors of the tall oaken wardrobes that lined the far wall, he stood back mostly to survey the colors. Long flowing robes were too formal for the ambiance he wanted to create for the evening. He favored the deep forest green yet it would not do for what he wanted tonight. Rummaging through his hip length tunics, he found a long sleeved pale green silk that he thought would be best. It was one that buttoned up the front without the customary band collar as most of his tunics. Slipping it on as he walked to his bureau, he sorted through the drawers until he found the soft black silk leggings he wanted. Dressing quickly, he examined himself in the tall silvered glass on the wall as he brushed out his long tresses. Laying the brush back on his dressing table, he decided the tunic would look better tucked into the leggings, accenting his sender hips and broad shoulders. Pulling on the soft boots he preferred when he was in his personal chambers, he inspected himself one last time in the silvered glass. Smiling, he reached up and unbuttoned the top three buttons, exposing a little more of his chest. “It is what it is.” He said to himself as he turned toward his dressing table, pausing for a moment he decided against the circlet. Satisfied with himself, he walked out of the bed chamber and went straight to the wine cupboard in the far corner of his pubic sitting room. Choosing a small goblet, he filled it and took a long drink to steady himself. Refilling the goblet, he collected the carafe as well as a second goblet and carried them to the low table between the tall wing backed chairs in front of the hearth. Turning toward the flames, he let his thoughts wander as he waited for Galion. Watching the flames dance along the logs, he thought of the other elleth’s (elf maiden) from whom he had sought comfort over the long years since Athëálÿssíä had abandoned him and their son. There had been many brief encounters and short lived relationships, with Gilaiwë the only constant in his life. He had for the most part sought his intimate comforts from Galion with only a few other ellyn’s (male elf) over the years during his visits to Lórinand and Imladris. Yet he knew that even if she accepted that part of him, there was still his oath to the crown that he could not break or even bend. Until the throne was secured by the legitimate birth of a Sindar heir, he was forbidden by decree to marry anyone other than a Sindar. Having suffered through the pain and heartbreak of a forced arranged marriage, he had promised himself he would not do that to his only child. Startled from his heavy thoughts, Thranduil almost chuckled as Galion entered, chattering away as usual. Turning toward him, he shook his head as he watched him carry the heavily laden tray to the table on the far side of the room. “As usual you bring a feast.” He chided him with a smile, clasping his shoulder as he walked up behind him. “Well, I know what you prefer. I have no idea about her.” Galion stated rather defensively as he narrowed his eyes at him. “So I brought some of almost everything.” “It’s fine Galion.” He laughed as he leaned down, kissing him on the top of his head. “Did you give her my message?” He asked, picking up a few of the nuts as Galion began setting the various bowls and plates on the table. “Yes, I did.” He shook his head and rolled his eyes at him. “She was quite relieved I must say.” He added setting the tray aside as he went to the small cupboard to collect two plates. “Should I bother with the tea pot?” He asked, turning to look up at him. “Go ahead.” Thranduil replied, grinning at him as he noted Galions’ not so subtle glance at his goblet. Grabbing a handful of the nuts as he went to fetch the water for the teapot, Thranduil smiled to himself and walked back toward the hearth. Most of the logs had now caught fire and cast a warm glow about the room. He could feel his nervousness rising in the pit of his stomach as he stood there watching the flames. He could not remember a time when he felt the need to put so much effort into trying to impress anyone, particularly someone he was intimately interested in. Having grown up being treated more like his own child, Tauriel did not have the awe of his position as did others. “Well.” Galion stated as he turned away from hanging the teapot near the flames. “Everything is set, so I will leave you now.” He said as he touched Thranduils’ arm. “All you have to do is be yourself.” “That is not as easy as it sounds.” Thranduil sighed, but smiled at him. “I have been a king far longer than I have been myself.” Nodding, Galion simply patted his arm as he turned and walked away from him, leaving him to his own thoughts. The minutes seemed drag by yet the time seemed to disappear as he heard the soft knock at his door. Setting the goblet on the mantel piece, Thranduil walked calmly toward it. “Come in.” He said quietly as he opened the door for her. His gaze trailed quickly over the deep blue dress that draped her body and complemented her perfectly. “I hope you are hungry.” He told her as he led her further into the room. “Galion always brings more than anyone could eat and tonight it is worse because he was not sure what you would like.” Tauriel glanced around the sprawling room, all of it brought back so many fond memories of her childhood. Her gaze rested for a moment on the tall wing backed chairs in front of the enormous hearth. She had spent many nights there in his lap as he read her stories, always giving in when she would beg him for just one more. She would fall asleep in the comfort of his arms and he would carry her to her own room and put her to bed himself. “I’m sure I will find plenty to eat.” She laughed softly, turning her attention back to him as her stomach twisted in knots. “I thought it would be nice if we sit by the fire.” He said quietly as he slipped his arm loosely around her, resting his hand gently on her hip as he guided her toward the table. Tauriel struggled with the myriad of strange feelings that washed over her. He was her king yet in many ways he was so much more than that to her. It had been so easy all those years ago to put him up on that tall pedestal, so high that she could not reach him. Content to admire him from afar, she had felt safe. Somehow he had managed to climb down from that tall pedestal, reawakening all those feelings she had thought were long buried. “You have no right!” Her heart screamed at him even as she smiled up at him. Gone were the stately robes of his position, he wore no crown or circlet as he stood there before her now. This was a side of him she had not seen since she was a child and she found him even more beautiful as she looked up into the softness that seemed to shine from the depths of those sapphire pools. “Everything looks wonderful.” She said as she picked up one of the plates. Curiously paying attention to his choices of nothing but fruit, vegetables, cheese, nuts and sweet bread. Making a mental note that he avoided both the fish and the meat, even though there was still plenty of room on his plate. Frowning inwardly, he watched her as they walked toward the hearth. Perplexed by her unusual silence, he struggled to find the words to help her relax and make normal conversation. He felt the tension in his stomach tighten as they sat their plates on the table and made themselves comfortable on the furs. “I have always loved this room.” She said quietly as she lifted the folds of her dress, sinking down onto the soft furs. “It reminds me of the forest.” “Oh?!” He exclaimed, relief spreading over his face as the silence broke between them. “Yes.” She laughed at the expression on his face. “It’s filled with the colors of all the seasons in the forest. The different shades of green and the all the colors of autumn.” “I never really thought about it.” He chuckled, picking up a piece of cheese as he watched her. “I find it comforting.” She smiled, more than aware of the way he looked at her. Although she sensed his discomfort, she met his gaze evenly as she continued to talk about her love of the forest. Avoiding the topic of her former position as a captain in the patrols, she watched him as she drew him into the conversation with questions about his knowledge of the trees, flora and animals of the forest. Slowly guiding the topic to their outing that morning and the Länciföliûm flower left in her room. “I am sorry.” He said quietly, feeling the heat of his embarrassment creep into his face as he looked away from her for a moment. “What do you have to be sorry for?” She asked as she reached over, clasping his hand firmly. “I have much to be sorry for.” He sighed as he reached for the carafe of wine on the table. “I have wronged you.” He said quietly as he filled both goblets. “You have done so such thing!” She exclaimed, her heart ached at the agony she saw on his face and in his eyes as he turned to look at her. “Tauriel.” He groaned as he pulled her into his arms, hugging her tightly. “It was selfish of me and I had no right to force you to come back here.” “Thranduil...” She began as she pulled away from him. “Listen to me Tauriel.” He interrupted her firmly. “I told you we needed to talk and there is no easy way to say what needs to be said.” It was only the pain she saw in his eyes that silenced her as they stared at each other for long moments, a pain and tension that etched itself into his beautiful face like a web. “I cannot lie to you.” He said finally, breaking the heavy silence between them. “I do not deny that I desire you.” He continued, his tone as strained as the expression on his face. “But I will not deceive you.” “How do you deceive me?!” She stated more than asked, her tone sharper than she intended. “Come here.” He smiled, seeing the familiar fire rise in her eyes, giving him a strange kind of comfort as he shifted her to lay her back against his chest. “I care deeply for you but I cannot give you what you deserve.” He said, tightening his arms around her as he leaned down to press his cheek against her temple. “It was not my intention to hurt you in denying any pledge my son may have made to you. It has little to do with your Silvan heritage.” He said quickly as he took her hand, pressing it to his lips. “By decree, until he gives me a legitimate heir, neither of us are free to take a wife other than a Sindar.” “Legitimate heir?” She asked, her voice was barely above a whisper, staring into the hearth as she felt her heart breaking. “My father decreed from the beginning that only a legitimately born Sindar could ascend to the throne. If anything should happen to Legolas, that responsibility falls to me.” He told her quietly. “He knew this?” She asked, instinctively pressing herself tighter against him. “Yes.” He replied quietly as he cupped her chin, turning her to face him. “I am sorry.” He whispered as he kissed her forehead. “For as much as I desire to be with you. You deserve someone who can give themselves to you completely. Something I cannot do.” He continued when she remained silent. “I understand that your first obligation is to the crown.” She said quietly, as difficult as it was to accept there was a small part of her understood what he was telling her. “It has nothing to do with the crown.” He said, stiffening as she jerked free of him and swung to face him. “Who is she?” Tauriel asked, her eyes flashed angrily at him. “She is in Lórinand but he is here.” He admitted as he braced himself, making no move to avoid or block the blow that stung his face sharply as she slapped him. “How dare you!” She hissed as she watched him close his eyes to her and slightly bow his head away from her. “Look at me damn you!” She demanded, her heart pounding in her throat. “Tauriel...” “No!” She exclaimed, her eyes narrowing as she glared at him. “I don’t want to know anymore. You have not wronged me.” She continued, her voice thick with emotion as she fought back the tears. “You have done far worse, you manipulated me.” She stated as she pushed herself to her feet. “I can see myself out.” Sighing heavily, Thranduil watched her as she strode purposefully toward the door. Making no move to stop her, he picked up one of the goblets and drank deeply from it as he stared into the flames of the hearth. His cheek stung horribly where she had struck him, but it was the pain in his heart that he felt the deepest. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ Sitting alone at one of the corner tables the young prince of Mirkwood was unaware of the two Sindar elves who watched him intently from across the large dining room. His slender fingers wrapped around the mug of ale that he had been nursing for most of the evening, the plate of food at his elbow was barely touched. The firm set of his jaw revealed more to his observers than he would have preferred as his thoughts grew darker and angrier. “There is too much of his grandfather in him.” Gilaiwë said quietly, her fingers twirling the stem of her wine glass. “Tóriôn said he has spoken to no one since he arrived last night.” “Yes.” Lenwë agreed, his soft gray blue eyes darkened slightly. “He has much anger in him for his father.” “It’s never a good thing when two ellyn (male elf) love the same elleth (elf maiden).” She sighed heavily as she turned to look up at him. “Love?” He frowned deeply as he turned toward her. “Thranduil may deny the truth to me with his words but I know him far better than anyone.” She stated as she turned her attention back to the young prince. “He claims that he is only Tauriels’ protector, that he feels responsible for her. For most of her life he has nurtured and watched her grow into a beautiful young elleth (elf maiden). His heart is not as cold as he would like most to believe. It does not surprise me that he would fall in love with her.” “Where one father was too controlling, the other follows his heart.” He said almost as if to himself. “Legolas will have to find his own way.” Gilaiwë said as she picked up the wine glass. “The fate of the heart of Mirkwood now rests in her hands.” She sighed as she sipped the dry white wine. Chapter End Notes Thanks for reading! ***** Confrontations ***** Chapter Summary After an unexpected visit from Galion, Tauriel finds that she has much to think about when it comes to Thranduil. Legolas finds the courage to confront the one he believes is the cause of his mother abandoning him only to learn enough to raise more questions within him. Thranduil finds solace in the arms of his childhood friend and longtime lover. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes Irritated at the soft but persistent knock at her door, Tauriel slipped the marker within the pages of the book she had been reading and laid it aside. “Tauriel?” Came a soft familiar voice of the kings’ personal servant. “Come in.” She called out as she rose to her feet. “Galion.” She acknowledged him as soon as he entered. “What brings you here?” She asked, schooling her expression as she felt her anger rising. “I was hoping we could have a chance to sit and talk for a bit.” He said quietly, smiling warmly as he walked toward her. “I have cinnamon spiced hazel nut tea if you like.” She replied, turning toward the small cupboard to collect another cup and saucer. “It’s not like I have anything else to do.” She added, waving her hand toward one of the chairs in front of the hearth. “First of all dear.” He said quietly as he stopped her, taking her hands gently in his own as he smiled warmly at her. “I am here of my own accord. I thought you might need a friend.” Tilting her head slightly, Tauriel narrowed her eyes at him as she instinctively stiffened. The old elf was much respected among the various circles, nobles included, regardless of the fact that he was considered by most to be the kings’ eyes and ears within the palace. “Forgive me if I am a little distrusting under the circumstances.” She stated as she turned away from him. “Please sit.” She added in a lighter tone as she continued toward the cupboard. “Nothing to forgive.” Galion told her, watching her closely as he seated himself comfortably in the chair. “I have four sisters.” He began as she returned and collected the teapot from the hearth, filling the cup for him. “I understand a little more than most.” “You have never spoken of your family.” She said cautiously as she seated herself opposite him, eyeing him suspiciously. In truth she had had little interest or reason to come to know anything about the kings’ personal servant over the years. “Most of them still live in the vales just outside of Lórinand.” He commented, picking up the teacup. “Only my sister Minûiáliën followed me here.” He added almost absently, deciding that she might be more willing to be open with him if she felt he was doing the same. “Is that where the two of you met?” She asked, her curiosity getting the better of her for the moment. The mention of Lórinand was not lost on her yet she chose to ignore it. “Oh no dear.” He chuckled softly, pausing to take a sip of the tea, knowing exactly who she was referring to. “I lived with him for a time there but I met him and his father when the Sindar first arrived here. Thranduil was but a young elfling at that time. I took care of him for the most part, he was not much older than you were when you became a ward of the king.” “Where was his mother?” She asked, taking a sip from her own cup, hiding her slight smile at the thought of Thranduil as a little elfling. Still she studied him, wondering what purpose he had in visiting her since he had never had any interest or dealings with her in the past. “I never met his mother.” He sighed but smiled warmly. “She died before they left Lindon and Oropher never took another wife.” “He could not find one among the other Sindar who came with him?” She asked, her tone was cutting as she was unable to squash the anger that rose again so quickly in her heart. “Don’t you think you are being unreasonably selfish?” Galion asked, his expression hardening as he pinioned her with an angry gaze that matched her own. “Excuse me?!” She blurted, nearly spilling her tea. “I’m being selfish?!” Her eyes narrowed dangerously at him. “Has he touched you in that way? Forced himself upon you?” Galion asked, arching a brow at her. “I think not. Yes he is arrogant and I suppose I have spoiled him beyond measure yes. But I know him well enough to know that he would never take advantage of anyone in that way, especially you.” He stated firmly, refusing to back away from her. “I think you should look deeper if you truly wish to find the answers you seek.” He continued, taking advantage of the fact that she was too startled to speak. “So you think this is my fault?” She asked, staring at him in disbelief. “Absolutely not!” Galion exclaimed, shaking his head. “It is no one’s fault. Your pain and your anger have blinded you Tauriel.” He said quietly. “My mother once told me that a son is a son until he takes a wife, but daughter is a daughter for life, and you are the daughter he could never have and I do not believe he thought beyond that when he became so attached to you. I do not know the extent of his feelings for you as he does not discuss these things with me.” “I don’t know Galion.” She said quietly, her hands trembling as she leaned forward, placing the cup and saucer on the table. “It was a foolish dream.” She added more firmly as she turned her gaze toward the flames in the hearth. “I am more than grateful for everything he has done for me and will always love him as if he were my father. I think I could have shared him with the crown...” Her voice trailed off as she thought of his other loves. “But?” Galion pressed, sensing that some of her walls had begun to crack. “I cannot share his heart. I did not know...” She stated, then stopped herself as she turned back to face him. “Tauriel.” Galion sighed, setting the cup and saucer on the table as he rose to his feet. “He has been alone for most of his life. Both of you must do what you think is best for yourselves.” Frowning, a thousand questions filled her mind as she watched him turn and walk away from her. Tears stung the backs of her eyes as she turned back to the hearth, her thoughts no longer filled with questions but memories. Shaking herself from her reverie, she pushed herself up from the chair and paced the length of the hearth until her hunger pangs reminded her that she had not eaten anything since she had stormed out of the kings’ chamber last night. It was late but the dining hall was still considerably full as she entered. The evening meal served as much as much of a social event to many of the elves, as they moved from one table to another visiting with each other. Out of habit now her eyes went to the dais if only to catch a glimpse of him. He was seated in the middle with Aldalómës’ father, Lord Garävegión to his right and the Lady Laurefindë to his left with her hand on his arm. His face lit up beautifully as he smiled warmly at her, his head tiled slightly toward her as he listened with interest to whatever she was saying to him. Turning away quickly so he would not see her looking, she scanned the room for a familiar face but found no one. Most of the patrols would have returned to their post or gathered at the barracks by this time. Finding an empty seat near the kitchen, she ate her meal in silence. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ Arching a brow at the knock on her door at such a late hour, Gilaiwë glanced toward Tóriôn as she set her tea cup on the table beside her. He rose at her nod and left her private parlor in the back of her cottage to answer it. “I would like to speak with the Lady Gilaiwë.” The visitor stated, she recognized the dialect and knew it was the young prince from Mirkwood. “This way please.” Tóriôn stated quietly as he led him through the sitting room to her private parlor. Entering the room Legolas was taken aback slightly as his gaze fell on the small childlike figure seated in front of the hearth. Schooling his expression as she turned her oval face toward him, long golden tendrils slipped over shoulder, spilling into her lap. It was only when he looked into the deep blue eyes that he saw the great age about her. “I would like to speak to you alone.” He said quietly, his gaze fixed on the beautiful golden elf before him. Feeling slightly irritated when the dark haired elf just stood there. “Welcome Prince Legolas of the Woodland Realm.” She said softly, her voice was barely above a whisper yet it could be heard clearly throughout the room. “Would you care for wine or tea?” She asked, her tone and mannerism unchanged as she openly studied him. “I am fine thank you.” He replied, still staring at her as she nodded to the dark haired elf, who immediately took his leave of them. “Please.” She waved her hand toward the chair opposite her. “What brings you to my humble abode at such a late hour?” She asked as she leaned back in her chair. “I know who you are.” Legolas stated as he seated himself across from her. “And who am I?” She asked, narrowing her eyes at him. “Your anger makes you very bold pen neth.” (Young one) She thought to herself with little amusement. “You are the reason my mother left.” He stated, his eyes flashed slightly before he could school his expression. “If it makes you happy to believe that, then so be it.” Gilaiwë said quietly, turning away from him to pick up her tea cup. “Then you do not deny it.” He stated as he straightened in the chair, the muscle in his cheek flexed. “You will believe whatever satisfies your own purposes.” She stated, her voice now full, rang clearly throughout the cottage. “I am your fathers’ oldest and closest friend. I knew his mother before he was even conceived.” She informed him, guarding her tone as she stared at him. “Oh yes pen neth (little one), you should fear me.” She added silently as his eyes widened slightly if only for an instant. “You will not find the answers you seek here.” She continued, pausing to sip her tea and let her words sink in. “Why does everyone protect him?” Legolas asked as he governed his tone. While he felt no threat from her, a brief glimpse of her power was enough to warn him not to anger her. “Why does he feel he can just take whatever he wants?” “Ah, I see.” Gilaiwë said quietly, her voice carried an almost musical undercurrent of laughter as she smiled at him. “You are in love with this...” “Tauriel.” He interrupted her. “Her name is Tauriel.” He stated clearly, lowering his tone slightly yet he continued to hold her gaze. “Love her or not, you are bound by the same oath as he.” She told him, frowning slightly as she watched the storm building behind the pale blue eyes that stared back at her. She felt the war within him, a battle between the part of him that was his father, but there was also that part of him that was his grandfather. “Why does everyone here talk in riddles?!” He exclaimed, shifting uncomfortably in the chair. “You do not listen, that is why you do not understand.” Gilaiwë began quietly. “When we were young, your father and I held little concern for the orthodox ways of our people. Unfortunately, as we grew older, we began to understand that duties and responsibilities of a crown outweigh the wants and needs of the bearer. One day fate may put that crown on your head, until then you must search within yourself for the strength and the courage to wear it.” “What about love?” Legolas asked quietly, his eyes now seemed to implore her for answers. “Love pays no part in the plans of fate I’m afraid.” She replied absently as her thoughts turned Thranduils’ last visit. “Then you do love him.” Legolas stated, staring at her curiously. “Not the way you think I do.” She told him pointedly. “I am one of your fathers’ oldest friends and his ally that is all.” “Then I must apologize for my accusations.” He stated, his shoulders slumping somewhat. “My father does not speak to me of himself, his past, my mother.” He sighed, his gaze flickered about the room as if he searched for his words. “Legolas.” She said quietly, smiling softy as he turned to look at her. “You must not judge him too harshly. He was younger than you are now when he was forced upon a throne he did not want and the Thranduil I knew was gone, in his place stood a king.” ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ Shifting his gaze at the slight movement, Thranduil smiled slightly as he watched Galion enter his bed chamber. Illuminated perfectly in the soft glow of the flames in the hearth, his gaze flickered over him as he watched him undress, meeting the soft green eyes as the servant walked toward the bed. “You always seem to know when I need you most.” Thranduil said softly as he moved the covers aside and pulled him into a warm embrace, kissing him tenderly. Returning the kiss, Galion said nothing as he pressed himself along the length his body, enjoying the feel of the roaming hands that caressed his back. Taking his face in his hands, Galion placed soft kisses over his face before capturing his mouth in a long searching kiss. Surrendering his mouth to him, Thranduil clung to him as he rolled on top of him. Sighing softly, he slipped his arms beneath his shoulders, cradling his head in his hands. Thrusting his tongue deeper, he kissed him hungrily as he breathed in the familiar scent of him. Here in this room they were not a king and servant but lovers as they had been for nearly three millennia. Releasing his mouth, he nipped playfully at his chin as he trailed his kisses to the softer flesh of his neck. Burying his face against the warmth, Thranduil enjoyed the feel of his squirming body beneath him as he kissed the sensitive spot just below his ear. Smiling to himself as he felt his fingers tangle themselves in his hair, pressing his mouth tighter against him. “Tonight I am hungry.” He said quietly, pulling back slightly. Smiling almost wickedly as he admired the perfect balance of beauty and masculinity of Galions’ face. His soft moss green eyes looked back at him through half closed lids framed in long dark sooty lashes. Dropping his gaze to the slightly parted lips, he felt a subtle twitch in his groin as Galion ran the tip of his tongue teasingly across his upper lip. Chuckling softly, Thranduil moved down, placing soft kisses over his chest, tracing the tip of his tongue along the warm skin toward his taut stomach. Listening to his soft moans, he sought out all of the sensitive places that he knew so well as he continued to move lower. Raking his nails gently down his sides as he settled himself between his thighs, he ignored his swollen sex as he sought the tender spot just below the hollow at his hip. “Thranduil!” Galion choked as his thighs instinctively tried to close against the overwhelming surge of pleasure washed over him. Ignoring him, Thranduil smiled to himself as he gently pushed his knees farther apart, kissing the trembling flesh of his inner thigh. Grasping his hips to hold him still, he slowly trailed his lips upward, tasting the sweet nectar of his arousal with a flick of his tongue. Taking him in his mouth, he slowly swallowed the length of him as he buried his face against the warmth of his groin. Trembling as the warm sheath of his mouth engulfed him, Galion struggled for control of his body. He felt his passion boiling deep within him as Thranduils’ gentle suckling slowly grew in earnest. Groaning softly, he knew it was a futile effort as his hips rocked forward of their own volition. Stiffly, his fingertips caressed Thranduils’ cheeks as the tension continued to build almost painfully within him. Crying out through clenched teeth, Galion drove himself into the deliciously torturous mouth as his release spewed forth. Trembling, he closed his thighs against him as Thranduil continued to suckle him gently, pulling the last dregs from him. Moving upward as Galion finally relaxed, Thranduil slipped one arm beneath him. Kissing him tenderly, he was content for the moment to hold him and touch him. Nuzzling his neck with soft kisses, he drew the tips of his fingers teasingly along the flesh of his hip, caressing him lovingly as he savored the feel of his still trembling body beneath him. “I am in no hurry.” He chuckled softly as he grasped Galions’ wrist, pulling his hand away from his own aching sex. Capturing his mouth before he could protest, Thranduil kissed him deeply as he shifted his body slightly over him. Willing his body to relax, Thranduil ran his fingers through his silken chestnut hair as he kissed his forehead. Smiling to himself, he placed soft kisses over his face as memories of their many long years together flittered through his thoughts. Galion had been the one constant in his life from the beginning, understanding him like few others could. Untangling himself from him, Thranduil pushed himself to his knees as he reached for the small tin of herbal salve he kept in a carved box in the headboard. Grasping the shelf for support, his breath caught in his throat as he felt the warmth of Galions’ lips close around the crown of his sex. A soft moan escaped his lips as he felt his tongue flicker teasingly over the surface, sending shivers through him. “Not so soon.” He told him as he pulled free of him and collected the tin. Scooping an ample amount with his finger he lowered himself back onto the bed, settling between his thighs. Meeting his gaze, he smiled as he reached down, spreading it over the tight wrinkled muscle, teasing him for long moments before entering him. Quickly finding the tiny spot that would bring him pleasure, he moved his fingertip in a circular motion, massaging it gently as he watched him. Patiently, inserting a second then finally a third finger, he gently prepared him to accept him. Rolling onto his stomach as the fingers slipped free of him, Galion braced himself as he moved over him. Relaxing, he felt him use his knee to spread his thighs, positioning him as he lowered himself onto him. Soft groans mingled with whimpers escaped his lips as Thranduil wrapped his arms around him and entered him in one slow thrust. Pressing his cheek against the top of his head, Thranduil closed his eyes, savoring the feel of the tight warm sheath as he gently rocked against him. Taking him in long easy thrusts, he listened to the soft moans as he leaned down, kissing his cheek. Slowly as the pressure built within him, he held tighter to him, whispering soft love words in his ear. Stiffening as he felt the tension suddenly break within him, his breath came in ragged gasps as he thrust harder into him. Collapsing against him as the weakness of his release washed over him, he held onto him as waited for it to pass. Turning to face him as Thranduil pulled the covers over them and wrapped his arms around him, Galion kissed him softly and snuggled against him. Chapter End Notes The story begins to deepen a little as more and more pieces of Thranduils' past comes to light!! Thanks for reading!! ***** Unexpected Visitors ***** Chapter Summary As the Winter Solstice Celebration approaches in the Woodland Realm, Thranduil finds himself far less festive as he would have preferred with the unannounced arrival of his son. Tauriel finds herself caught between the two people that mean the most to her. Unexpected visitors create turmoil within her, forcing her to choose one only to lose the other forever. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes Feeling overly stifled within the confines of her rooms, Tauriel longed for the freedom of the forest where she could run, feel the wind in her face and listen to the many voices of the rivers, streams and the animals that lived there. Wandering aimlessly through the familiar labyrinth of corridors in the lower levels of the palace, she struggled with myriad of feelings and unanswered questions that plagued her. A soft smile touched her lips as she thought of Kili, with his happy smiling face and bright eyes so full of hope. She no longer felt pain with his memory, there was only the deep sadness of what might have been. She knew the sadness would also fade in time and she would be able to remember him with fondness. There was still so much pain in her heart when she thought of Legolas, abandoning her without even saying goodbye after what they had been to each other. Her pain was overshadowed by her anger at having been betrayed by him where the king had at least been forthright with her. “Really Laûrläéthëe, you should have let me know you were coming.” Thranduil stated softly, his voice echoing in the spacious chamber. “I would have sent an escort to ensure your safety.” He continued, the disapproval in his tone was clear. Ducking quickly into the shadows, Tauriel felt her heart leap into her throat at the sound of his voice. Pressing even tighter against the stone wall, she watched them as they came into view in the meditation room below. “Thranduil please.” Laûrläéthëe stated, her frustration as evident as his disapproval. “The last thing I wanted was for naneth nîn (My mother) or you to worry about me. Lord Fládëithnôr took care of everything.” “It is my responsibility to worry about you.” He stated, bringing her hands to his lips briefly. “Your naneth (Mother) would have a piece of my hide should anything happen to you.” “Don’t be silly!” Laûrläéthëe laughed as she squeezed his hands. “Naneth (Mother) knows how stubborn I can be and she absolutely adores you.” Turning quickly, Tauriel struggled against the threat of tears as she fled through the corridors toward the safety of her rooms. Forcing a smile and a nod to each passersby, she had not realized how far she had wandered while lost on her thoughts. It seemed as if it took forever before the door of her rooms loomed before her. Entering quickly, she nearly slammed it closed and leaned heavily against it. Blinking at the tears that stung the backs of her eyes, the image of them and familiarity they seemed to share renewed her anger at him. She didn’t know who this Laûrläéthëe was, only that she was beautiful and Sindar. Thranduils’ reaction to not being informed of her visit made it obvious to her that she was of noble birth or at least important enough to warrant a royal escort. She found his comments about her mother rather disconcerting to say the least, causing her to wonder from where she had traveled for him to be so concerned about angering her. Hugging herself as if she were cold, she walked slowly toward the yawning dark mouth of the hearth. It was too early for the servants to be making their way through the inhabited rooms to light the fires. Collecting the flint from the mantel, she knelt before the hearth and set about the task of lighting it herself. The evening meal was at least an hour away, but she knew she would not be going there tonight. There were enough dried fruits and nuts in her small cupboard to sustain her for a few nights she and could get more from the kitchen if she needed. Hanging the small teapot on the hook near the flames and walked over to the comfortable chair. Sinking into it, she tucked her legs beneath her and watched the tiny flames. It had only been two days since she had spoken to him and there had no word from him. She was still not totally convinced that he had not sent Galion to speak with her although he denied it. She had seen him only during meals in the dining hall, watching him with downcast eyes from beneath the veil of her lashes as she pretended to eat her food. It was as if nothing had changed for him as he sat there in all his glory, smiling and casting glances about the room yet not once in her direction. It hurt more than she would admit even to herself that he seemed to be able to brush her off so easily. He had recalled his personal guard yet had replaced them with captains from his regular forces, she presumed it was because she was friends with all of the captains within the forest patrols. Clearly his intentions were to keep her from fleeing again even though she had no idea where she would go. Lórinand was at least heavily populated with Wood elves who were kin to the Silvan elves, she could have been happy there. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ “Ouch!” Ivósaar grunted, grabbing the back of his head as he swung around and braced himself against the large tree trunk. Scanning the branches above him there was no signs of webs much less the shelob (spiders) themselves. In fact there was no sign of anything out there but himself and this was the third time something had hit him. Whoever was playing tricks on him was going to get it as soon as he caught them. “Down here you fool!” An angry voice called out to him. “Legolas!” He exclaimed as he quickly started down the long rope he had secured to his watch post earlier that morning. “Hey...” “Be quiet!” Legolas hissed as Ivósaar got closer to the ground. “What’s going on?!” Ivósaar asked, quickly scanning the area around them. “Nothing.” Legolas grumbled as he stepped closer to him. “When do you change guards?” He asked quietly. “It shouldn’t be long now, why? When did you come back?!” Ivósaar replied, a deep frown forming on his brow as he watched the young prince who had been the commander of the forest patrol until the battle in the shadows of the Lonely Mountain. “I need to get in the palace unseen.” Legolas stated as he kept watching the area for Ivósaars’ replacement or signs of trouble. “What?! Why?!” Ivósaar exclaimed, staring at him as if he had just grown a third eye in the middle of his forehead. “Don’t ask questions!” Legolas hissed, glaring at him. “When you get off meet me at the pine glade just north of the stable doors. Tell no one you have seen me.” He told him. “Okay, I’ll be there.” Ivósaar said and watched as the prince disappeared quickly into the thick grove of evergreens. “Why do I not feel good about this?” He asked himself as he climbed back up to his position within the branches of the tree. Sprinting north, Legolas was forced to move slower than he would have preferred as there were a number of watch stands that had been repositioned and they had increased in his absence. There had also been signs of thinning among the Elm, Oak, and Birch trees, favored by the shelob (spiders) for building their nests, which he presumed may have accounted for the relocating of some of the watch stands. Moving between the clustered stands of evergreens which were thankfully more prevalent in the northern regions of the forest, he hoped he had managed to reach the pine glade unnoticed. Slipping through the narrow space between the waterfall and rocks, he moved toward the back where he found a rock ledge just wide enough for him to crouch and wait. Climbing on top of it, he crouched down with his back against the wall facing the opening in rocks and pulled his cloak tighter around him. He trusted Ivósaar and knew that if he said he would come that he would be there, his only concern was that he was not followed. The time he had spent in Lórinand had been more than frustrating, not only did he not find the answers he sought, he left with more questions. The only thing he knew for certain was that Tauriel did not leave of her own choice. He had much time to think as he traveled north to the Woodland Realm and he wondered at the alliance between his father and the Lady Gilaiwë. She had been very protective of him even if they were not lovers, something he was not entirely convinced was not the case. He realized that both she and the Lord Lenwë were Vanyar, yet he had not sensed any unnatural powers from him. While all elves had the ability to manipulate the natural energies of nature, there were those of old who seemed to have the ability to reach deeper into the forces of nature. “It took you long enough!” Legolas growled as he watched Ivósaar creep carefully into the cave. “It’s not my fault!” He exclaimed, scanning the cave. “Träëliôrn was late getting out there to relieve me. I’m not saying that I won’t help you but first I need to at least know why you need to sneak into the palace.” He added as Legolas jumped down from his perch on the ledge. “If you must know. I need to speak to my father but first I need a good bath and a nights rest before I deal with him.” Legolas stated as he walked toward the opening in the rocks. “Now are you going to help me or not?” He asked as he stopped at the opening and turned to face him. “Fine, come on.” Ivósaar stated as he followed him. “Have you returned? Are you staying?” He asked as they set out east toward the palace. “No.” Legolas stated, casting him a sideways glance. “I intend to leave and I will take Tauriel with me.” “Good luck with that!” Ivósaar exclaimed, shaking his head. “Why?!” Legolas demanded, grabbing his arm jerking him to a halt as he glared at him. “What do you know?!” “The king has her under guard.” Ivósaar replied, wrenching his arm free. “She is not allowed to leave the palace.” “Where is he keeping her?!” Legolas demanded, feeling his anger burning in his gut. “Look, you need to calm down.” Ivósaar told him, frowning at him, his dark green eyes bore into the pale blue of the Prince. “I will not calm down!” Legolas exclaimed. “He has gone too far this time!” “Legolas, listen to me.” Ivósaar implored him as he grasped his shoulders firmly, forcing him to look at him. “I know you still have feelings for her. You are right, you cannot face your father or her with your anger, you know this!” He exclaimed, staring into the angry eyes that were now clouded like a brewing storm. “Most everyone should still be in the dining hall right now.” He continued as Legolas seemed to have gained some measure of control of himself. “I can get you in without being seen. You need to rest and gather yourself before you confront him.” “Will you show me where she is?” Legolas asked, his shoulders slumping slightly as he realized his friend was right, there was nothing he could do tonight. “I don’t have to show you.” Ivósaar said quietly, releasing him. “Her rooms are in the guest corridor. The last door before you descend to the kings’ private areas.” He told him, watching as the anger slowly began to rise again. “Legolas.” He said quietly, still watching him. “I don’t think there is anything between them. The king has visited her a few times but from I’ve been told, he is not in there very long and he seems quite angry when he leaves.” “So why does he keep her here if it is not...” He said quietly but stopped himself. “We must go. I will speak with my father in the morning when he is in his study. This concerns him and I, no one else.” He stated more firmly and turned away from him, heading in the direction of the stable doors. “You wait outside.” Ivósaar said quietly as the huge stable doors came into view. “I will go in and distract Faÿláën, he always sends the stable hands to eat first, so he’s probably still in there.” Nodding in agreement, Legolas ducked behind a large oak tree as Ivósaar sprinted toward the doors. Impatiently he scanned the trees, hoping he had not missed anything, the last thing he needed was to have his father alerted to his presence before he was ready to talk to him. There had already been harsh words between them that bothered Legolas for he truly loved him, yet he could not abide what he was doing to Tauriel. It may be too late for her to take him back, but he would not leave her as a prisoner in his fathers’ halls. Moving quickly toward the door, he paused to listen for voices or the sound of movement within before slipping inside and heading straight for the lesser used passage through the storage cellar. The lower levels of the fortress were riddled with a labyrinth of narrow passages and tunnels that lead either up into the main halls or farther below toward the river as an escape route in the event the security of the fortress was breeched. Having lived in their fortress home for his entire life, Legolas knew them all. Catching sight of the prince as he slipped silently into the passage, Ivósaar politely excused himself and followed him. Catching up with him, he led the way, keeping an eye out for anyone still moving about as they neared the mid- level of the palace where the majority of the personal chambers of the nobles and honored guests were located. “Thank you.” Legolas stated quietly, clasping his friends shoulder as they reached the stairwell that would take him to his chambers. “I will speak you again before I depart.” “You better!” Ivósaar exclaimed, still keeping his voice as hushed as possible before bounding up the few steps to the next level. Retrieving his key as he waited for his signal, Legolas felt himself tensing and struggled to suppress his rising anger. Relieved as Ivósaar nodded the coast was clear, he raced past him and made his way toward his private chambers. Safely inside the darkened room, he turned the latch and leaned against the heavy oaken door, expelling the breath he had not realized he had been holding. Pausing only long enough to let his eyes adjust to the darkness of the room, he signed heavily as he dropped his pack in the small alcove near the door. Removing his cloak, he hung it on a peg as he tried to clear his mind and gain control of himself. Moving about the large sitting room he lit a few of the lanterns and set about the task of lighting a fire in the hearth, he felt some of the tension leave him. Crouching silently before the hearth as he watched the growing flames leaping almost playfully along the logs, he allowed his thoughts to turn to her. Guilt and sadness gripped him as he was forced to accept the fact that he had abandoned her in her time of need. The dwarf was dead and there was nothing he could do about it. Tauriel had been his friend first for many years, a sibling he would never have in truth. Unaware of the soft smile that curled the corners of his lips, he thought of how she had attached herself to him all those years ago, following him around like an irritating little sister. Always with her undaunted childish excitement, wanting to go where ever he went and do what he was doing. Throwing her little temper tantrums much to his fathers’ dismay when he would not allow her to accompany him into the forest with his friends. Looking back now, part of him understood that he shouldered the blame for his fathers’ attachment to her as she sought him out for comfort when he officially joined the forest patrol. She was still just an elfling at the time, a child who clearly felt abandoned by him when he could no longer be bothered by her clinging ways. Over the years, seemingly without his notice, Tauriel had grown into a beautiful young elleth (elf maiden) who caught the attentions of many ellyn (male elf). Frowning as he gazed into the now brightly burning flames in the hearth, he wondered when she stopped being that irritating little sister and became so much more to him. She had excelled with the bow as well as the knife and was a fearless fighter in defense of the realm. Slowly his admiration and fondness of her grew into love and yes pride in her skills, he knew she had his back and he had hers. He felt his heart skip a few beats as his thoughts turned to that day when everything changed, the first time he had worked up the courage to steal a kiss from her. In that single moment, when he felt the tremble in her lips she was no longer the fearless warrior, she became a something he cherished and needed to protect from all harm. He was far from being unfamiliar in the ways of pleasuring of elleth’s, (elf maiden) yet to him Tauriel was special, she was precious to him. She had stolen his heart the day she had willingly gifted him with her maidenhood. Angrily he pushed himself up from the floor and made his way back through his bed chamber, pausing only to light the hearth before making his way into his bath chamber. Lifting the lever at the head of the long copper tub, he was more than thankful for the constant flow of heated water. Summoning servants to prepare a bath for him would only alert his father to his presence and he was not yet ready to deal with him. Chapter End Notes Thanks for reading!! I hope you are enjoying this as much as I enjoy writing it! ***** Calm Before the Storm ***** Chapter Summary As the palace prepares for the Winter Solstice Festival, Legolas returns to confront his father. Tauriel finds comfort in an old friend as Legolas struggles with the need to convince her of his love for her. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “Galion, you know very well I trust you in these matters for a reason.” Thranduil sighed heavily as he scratched his name boldly across the bottom of the request. “You and Alythiyiá have never managed to disappoint me yet.” He added as he gathered the papers and stacked them neatly before handing them to him. “I’m glad you always approve.” Galion stated somewhat flippantly as he accepted the requests. “I ask for your approval simply as a matter of principle. Not to mention I would not need to make last minute changes if you saw fit to inform me of extra guests. You did not seem to feel it necessary to inform me that Lady Laûrläéthëe safely arrived the other day...” “That will be all Galion.” Thranduil stated, meeting his gaze briefly before turning away from him to gather yet another stack of papers that required his attention. “Ben iest gîn, hîr vuin.” (As you wish, my lord). Galion stated, stiffening as he abruptly turned on his heel and departed the kings’ private study. “Why do you chide him so?” Lord Garävegión chuckled from his comfortable seat in the corner of the room. “Because I can.” Thranduil said quietly as he glanced up at him, his sapphire eyes dancing with amusement. “Besides, if I annoy him enough he will come to my chambers tonight to scold me and I will have to beg forgiveness by taking him into my bed.” He added, a slow smile curling his lips as he leaned back in his chair. “I will never understand the relationship between the two of you.” Lord Garävegión sighed, shaking his head. “Never the less, it has survived for many years and he has been good for you.” “He is special to me.” Thranduil said quietly, almost thoughtfully as he pushed himself up from the chair and made his way to the wine cupboard. “I received a message from Lady Gilaiwë, she will be joining us for the Winter Solstice this year.” He said as he picked up the wine carafe and turned toward his desk to refill his goblet. “And Lenwë?” Lord Garävegión asked, arching a brow. “He sends his regards but has chosen to remain in Lórinand.” Thranduil stated as he moved back toward his chair. “It would seem that Amroth has forsaken his rightful place as heir and he feels that his presence there is needed there more than here. Unfortunately I am forced to agree with him as I fully understand his position.” He sighed heavily, his gaze meeting that of his longtime friend and chief advisor. “Like Legolas, he has never had a desire to follow in his fathers’ footsteps.” Lord Garävegión replied, his gaze taking on a faraway look for a moment. “Yes.” Thranduil sighed, stretching out the word as if reluctant to agree. “I cannot force him to stay. But it raises a difficult situation I want to discuss with you.” Frowning at the kings’ strange expression, Lord Garävegión remained silent as he leaned forward, studying him. Beyond the many losses during the battle in the shadow of the Lonely Mountain that had pained the king very much, it was the absence of his son that had been the most difficult for him to come to terms with in his mind and more particularly in his heart. “Years ago I swore I would never force him into a marriage he did not want.” Thranduil said quietly as he looked down into the dark liquid in his goblet. “As sweet as the prospect would be to see my halls filled with the laughter of grandchildren, I would not bring the same pain upon him or any prospective wife I might choose.” “Is this something you are now considering?” Lord Garävegión asked curiously. It was a topic he had brought up in the past and always Thranduil had refused to even think on the issue. “Actually.” Thranduil began, turning to study him. “I would feel more comfortable if we were to completely abandon my fathers’ decree that places a higher value on a Sindar over any other.” “I see.” Lord Garävegión smiled. “This would not have anything to do with a certain young elleth (elf maiden).” He added, his smile broadening as he watched the stain of a slight blush creep up from beneath the kings’ collar. “We are all Tawarwaith through our Teleri ancestry. There should be no preference.” Thranduil stated, ignoring the question as he frowned at him. “I think it was only my fathers’ experiences in Doriath and his contempt for the Noldor that inspired him to make such a decree.” “In the time since your fathers’ death much has changed not just in the world but here. It grows more difficult to claim a pure line.” Lord Garävegión said thoughtfully. “It is within your power to dissolve the decree if you so choose.” “Why do I feel it will not be that easy?” He arched a brow at his advisor. “There will those who may disagree...” “I need to speak with you Father.” Legolas stated as he boldly marched into the study, the flash of anger that shown within his pale blue eyes belied his calm but firm tone. “Leave us.” Thranduil stated as he rose to his feet, meeting his sons’ angry gaze evenly, his thoughtful expression now replaced with a familiar guarded mask of indifference. “Why?” Legolas asked as soon as the door closed behind the advisor, stepping back slightly as his father walked around his desk. “It is good to see you too ion nîn (my son).” Thranduil commented, smiling slightly as he regarded his sons’ angry stance before him. “I will not play word games with you Father.” Legolas stated, watching his father lower himself slightly onto the edge of his desk. “You know very well what I’m talking about.” “Legolas.” Thranduil sighed, clasping his hands loosely in front of him as he tilted his head slightly in that knowing way he knew irritated his son. “I know a great many things.” He said, narrowing his eyes at him in warning. “Perhaps you should explain yourself. You can start by telling me why you thought it necessary to sneak into my house like a thief in the night.” He added, arching a brow at him, enjoying the startled look that passed briefly over his sons’ face. “But you’re right.” He said, leaning forward slightly. “I know exactly what you are referring to and my answer is simple. Tauriel is quite valuable to me not only because she is like a daughter to me, she was a good captain of my patrols. I felt it was far more advantageous to bring her back than to try to replace her.” He stated, watching the play of emotions chase themselves within the depths of his sons’ eyes. “That does not excuse the fact that you are keeping her a prisoner.” Legolas stated, feeling his anger twisting in his gut as he recognized his fathers’ defensive stance. Refusing to back down from his fathers’ narrowed gaze. “Why have you not returned her to the patrols then?” “She needs time Legolas.” Thranduil said quietly as he folded his arms across his chest, his gaze remaining unchanged as he studied his son. “She has suffered much and needs to mourn among her own people.” “You did not answer my question.” Legolas stated, his fingers flexing in his anger. “Why are you keeping her as a prisoner?” “She is not a prisoner.” Thranduil sighed as he turned to pick up his wine goblet. “She has the same freedoms as anyone else.” “Then I am taking her with me when I leave in the morning.” Legolas stated far more calmly than he felt. “You seem so sure of yourself.” Thranduil said quietly, taking a long drink from the goblet. “I do not think she will take lightly that you have already abandoned her once. Now that she knows you have deceived her, do you really think she will be so willing to go with you?” “Deceived her?” Legolas asked in shock, truly taken aback by the accusation. “I have never lied to her!” He stated as he collected himself quickly. “She knows I spoke the truth when I told her that I loved her!” He exclaimed, feeling his anger rising once more. “Nothing happens within this realm that I do not know of it.” Thranduil stated as he advanced on his son. “I should have intervened when I first became aware of it. You are reckless ion nîn (my son)! You think I did not know of your intentions? How you lured her into your many trysts while you were supposed to be on patrols no less? You knew from the beginning such a union could never be allowed yet you continued to deceive her to believe otherwise.” “I will marry her!” Legolas stated angrily. “You cannot stop me.” “Oh but I can. You are bound by the same decree as am I.” Thranduil stated, his tone taking on that familiar clear tone of his position. “I have tolerated your many dalliances over the years as I wanted you to experience life. Yet I had hoped you would come to your senses and a suitable choice would attract your attention as I do not wish to burden you with an arranged marriage.” “You have no right!” Legolas exclaimed as his father approached him. “Damn you!” He added to himself, hating the way his father always managed to remain aloof and seemingly untouched by everything around him. “As your King I have every right.” Thranduil stated as he narrowed his eyes, returning the same defiant glare so clearly shining from his sons’ eyes. “I suggest you take care that I do not change my mind.” Before he realized that he had even moved, Legolas felt the impact against his knuckles as he struck his father for the first time in his life. Reacting in both fear and anger, he turned on his heel and quickly left him standing there holding his face. “My Lord, is everything alright?” Thalieth asked, watching as the prince strode purposefully out of the study. “Stop him!” He yelled as he turned to see the king holding his face as blood trickled freely between his fingers. “No! Let him go.” Thranduil barked the order quickly. “Find Galion, tell him I need him.” He said as he straightened to his full height and walked calmly past him into the antechamber toward his private chambers. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ “I thought I was the only one who preferred solitude during festivals.” Elvändéruil said quietly as he approached the solitary figure in the solarium. “I actually love festivals. I’m just not feeling very festive at the moment.” Tauriel replied, smiling as she turned toward the familiar voice. “I merely sought refuge from the chaos for a while.” “You know I’m always here for you.” He told her, taking her hands in his larger ones. “You have been so sad lately, I worry for you.” His silvery gray eyes softened as slight crinkles formed at the edges from his smile. “Oh I’m not sad!” She insisted, squeezing his hands tightly. “It’s just that so many things seem to be happening so fast, I don’t even know what to think anymore.” She reluctantly admitted. The youngest son of one of the kings’ council members Elvändéruil was his mother’s favorite and was given much more freedom to live a simpler life than his siblings. Although he was much older than herself, he had been one of her dearest friends during her youth, someone she could always rely on to be there to listen when she needed someone to talk to. It was not in the way of a lover, yet she loved him deeply as a friend and a confidant, he knew all of her secrets. Smiling up at his concerned face, she wondered just when the rift between them happened. He was different than most Sindar and certainly unlike any of the nobles she knew of the kings’ court. She had always envied his long black tresses and the fact that he hated ornamental braids, always wearing it loose, to hang freely down his back and his soft caring eyes. There had been many elleth (elf maiden) that had sought his attentions, yet he chose to remain alone. In contrast to his strong masculine aura, there was a great gentleness about him. He had a unique ability to sincerely empathize and almost understand her feelings even in personal things that most ellyn (male elf) viewed as nothing more than elleth (Elf maiden) silliness endeared him to her. “I’m sorry that I have not taken the time to seek you out until now.” Elvändéruil said quietly as he studied her. “I thought perhaps you needed time to deal with certain things in your own way. But you seem to have shut everyone out, even me.” “Oh no! I could never do that to you!” She exclaimed as she raised up on her tiptoes to wrap her arms around his neck in a fierce hug. “I’m sorry I made you felt that way!” She told him as she pressed her cheek against his chest. Smiling to himself as he caught sight of the slight figure standing in the edge of the shadows in the doorway, Elvändéruil wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her closer to him. He knew she would not resist his embrace as it was given in comfort, seeking nothing from her save the spirit of their friendship. He had never favored her relationship with Legolas and had tried to dissuade her. Unfortunately she had become so enchanted by him, his warnings had fallen on deaf ears. “Save a dance for me at the festival and I will forgive you.” He teased, taking her hand as she released him. “You do plan to attend don’t you?” He asked as he led her toward a nearby stone bench. “I haven’t even thought about court.” Tauriel sighed as she leaned against him, appreciating the comfort of his embrace once again. “In the past I rarely attended the kings’ court during festivals because of my duties.” It wasn’t exactly true and she knew it. The king had always made sure she was free to attend yet she would volunteer to replace anyone who truly wished to attend. “Tauriel.” He said softy as he took her chin in his hand, turning her face toward him. “You need time to heal from everything you have been through. For once in your life will you please just relax and let things happen as they are meant to.” He implored her as he studied her face. “I don’t even know what I want anymore.” Tauriel said quietly, her voice trembling as she stared up at him. “Everything has just been too much.” “Stop trying to over think everything.” He told her, kissing her forehead softly. “Just listen to your heart.” Slipping silently into the deeper shadows, Legolas felt a deep pain in his heart as he sought the refuge of his private chambers. While there was a part of him that wanted more than anything to simply leave and get as far away from his fathers’ halls as possible, a larger part him knew he could not leave her, not again. The kings’ order that no one was to leave the fortress still stood and he knew that even if he managed to convince the guards to let him pass, his father would hear of it. Right now the last person he wanted to see much less talk to was his father. “You are reckless ion nîn (my son)!” The truth of his fathers’ words stung deeply as he thought of his foolishness in using his position to gain the attentions of any elleth displaying interest in him. Yet only one had managed to steal his heart as her emerald eyes, her sultry smile and the sweet sound of her laughter had haunted his dreams. Escaping into his rooms, he was filled with regret for his earlier actions in his fathers’ study. He had struck out at him in anger toward himself and it was unforgivable. All of his life his father had done nothing but show him love and respect. He had always been open with him when he questioned him, even though it pained him greatly, he had told him the truth about his mother and why she had abandoned them. Moving toward the hearth, he struggled with the torrent of emotions that swept over him as he set about the task of lighting the logs. Squatting down on the braided rug, he folded his legs in front of him as he watched the tiny flames grow as they began lapping at the bottom of the logs. “You must not judge him too harshly. He was younger than you are now when he was forced upon a throne he did not want and the Thranduil I knew was gone, in his place stood a king.” Her words rang in his head as he thought of his meeting with the Lady Gilaiwë and for the first time he truly felt the weight of a crown he did not want in a life that was not his own. There was a part of him that understood that as his father had always held the obligation of duty above all else, including love. Against his will the images of her in clinging to Elvändéruils’ neck, the gentle embrace as he kissed her forehead flashed through his mind, filling him once more with pain and the fear of losing her. He was well into adulthood and thoughts of his fathers’ threat to force him into a marriage he did not want was like a knife in his heart. No, he knew his love for Tauriel was real and he would not let him force him to a loveless marriage that would doom him to the same lonely life that his father had endured. Slowly as his anger began to fade, his thoughts turned not to his fathers’ words but the subtle signs he had missed. Tauriel may no longer be a prisoner, he had no reason to doubt Träëliôrns’ word that it had been the case upon their return. Not only did he hold her prisoner, he had used the March Wardens to guard her, even going so far as to replace them with officers from the elite forces to shadow her every movement within the palace. The fact that no one had visited her with the exception of his father, even if he departed from her rooms in anger it created a nagging feeling that he was holding something back. It was easy to see how his feelings for her could certainly have been blurred beyond a fatherly affection. Before the battle in the shadow of the Lonely Mountain, before the dwarf, before he himself had abandoned her, she had always been accessible to him, easily within his reach should he desire her. His anger rose again with the knowledge that he had not deceived her, not entirely. He had not told her of the oath only that his father would not approve of a marriage between them. Chapter End Notes Thanks again for reading!! As always, comments are welcome! Teleri - The third and largest clan of the Eldar (Elves) Tawarwaith - Those Sindar elves that began the Great Journey west after the Awakening but chose not to continue the journey across the Misty Mountains NOTE: I do not subscribe to beta readers and apologize for any errors. ***** Reflections of the Heart ***** Chapter Summary As the Winter Solstice Festival fast approaches Tauriel rejects Legolas and yet searches for answers toward an uncertain future. Thranduil struggles with the past as he is forced to realize his love for Tauriel and for the son who loves her too. He knows that following his heart can lead to only one of them. The darkness facing the Woodland Realm can be more real than he thinks as enemies may be closer than he realizes. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes Curling herself into the comfortable chair before the hearth, Tauriel held the small book tightly to her breast as she gazed unseeing into the flames dancing across the logs. Images, scattered and disconnected from one another flittered through her thoughts, memories she had tucked away long ago. Old memories yet new ones still fresh with new pain mingled amongst them, feelings that she still needed to sort out and find a place in her heart to put them. So many times she had relived that moment on Raven Hill, staring into Kili’s eyes as the light faded from them. How her life had changed since that moment, loss and emptiness had filled her heart. It was time to let him go, to somehow try to find a way to make peace within herself. He was gone and there was nothing that could change that. Laying the book in her lap, her fingers easily found the gap in the pages where she had tucked the small piece of parchment and the fragile Länciföliûm, now dried, the tiny yellow blossoms faded to a light brown. There was now only a faint touch of the soft fragrance yet it still filled her senses as she held it close to her face. The memory was still vibrant in her thoughts as if it had been only yesterday that she had felt his strong comforting embrace as they rode through the forest that chilly morning. Legolas, she still had feelings for him, they had been so much to each other for so long, his abandonment hurt deeply. In her heart she understood his pain yet she was still angry for his betrayal. Theirs was a love that could never be yet blamed herself as well because somewhere, deep in her heart she had known that from the beginning yet chose to ignore it. “Why do I always want what I cannot have?” She asked herself silently as she closed her eyes, breathing in the soft fragrance of the Länciföliûm. A soft knock on the door startled her from her reverie, she quickly tucked the flower back into its safe place between the pages of the book. Frowning at the late hour, she stared at the door for long moments, hoping whoever it was would leave her in peace. “Come.” She reluctantly bade them to enter as the knock grew louder and more persistent. “Hîr vuin.” (My Lord) She greeted him, laying the book aside as she rose quickly to face the Prince. “Since when do you address me as such?” He asked quietly as he closed the door behind him. “Things have changed between us.” She said as she tilted her head downward, staring at the braided rug in front of the settee, unsure of herself. “Nothing has changed for me. I have missed you Tauriel.” He told her softly, his long strides clearing the distance between them quickly. “I have thought of you day and night.” His tone so soft, it was almost a whisper as he gently lifted her chin, forcing her to look at him. Swallowing against the lump that suddenly formed in her throat, she could only stare up at him. Her gaze flickered over the familiar features of his beautiful face, though he tried to smile, she could see the pain in the depths of his pale blue gray eyes where there had once only been love and laughter. “You must not...” She choked past the growing lump in her throat. “I must not what?” Legolas interrupted her, pulling her into his arms as she started to turn away from him. “All I have done these past months is think of you, of us. I love you Tauriel.” “Legolas, stop!” Tauriel exclaimed as she wrenched herself free of his embrace and walked toward the hearth. “I cannot do this.” She said quietly, swallowing the lump in her throat. “Why?!” He exclaimed as he moved toward her, clasping her hands tightly in his. “Nothing has changed.” He stated, struggling to keep his voice from trembling yet his eyes pleaded with her as they searched her face. “What does it matter?” She stated more than asked, squeezing his hands as she searched his face, seeing nothing but the same pain that mirrored her own. “You knew the king could never allow you to pledge yourself to me.” “That does not matter.” Legolas told her, bringing her hands to his lips. “I cannot live a lie, I love you Tauriel. Please, I need you.” “It’s all been a lie.” She told him softly, not trusting her voice as she pulled her hands free from his grasp. “It’s just been too much, I need to sort things out.” She said, turning away from him. “Even so, things cannot go back to the way they were between us.” “What do you mean?!” Legolas exclaimed, taking her in his arms as he stepped up behind her. “We can leave here! We can go anywhere.” He pleaded with her as he buried his face in her hair. “Legolas, please.” She said quietly, stiffening as he pulled her against him. “I would like to be alone now.” Closing her eyes as he released her, Tauriel stood there in silence for long moments before she heard the door close behind him. Swallowing back the persistent lump in her throat as she turned back to the chair in front of the hearth, her eyes fell on the book. Hastily wiping the tears from her cheeks as she sank into its comforting embrace, her fingers moved caressingly over the engraved leather cover as she thought about the treasure hidden within its pages. “I do not know what is real and what is not, everything hurts.” She thought sadly, turning away from the book to watch the flames in the hearth as she struggled with the conflict between her heart and her mind. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ “You seem awfully deep in thought tonight.” Galion ventured, watching the strange play of expressions chasing themselves across the kings’ face as he stared into the hearth. “Yes.” Thranduil sighed heavily, turning to look at his friend briefly before turning back to the hearth. “Much to my regret, I feel that Legolas has left me no choice but to replace him as the patrol commander.” “I take it he is still determined to leave?” Galion asked as he refilled their teacups. “I know nothing of his plans.” Thranduil stated, a slight flash of anger passed across his face as he glanced quickly toward him. “He has been avoiding me.” “The incident in your study...” “Has nothing to do with it.” He interrupted him, shaking his head, it was part of it, but certainly not the whole of the matter. “I had already been considering it but I had not made up my mind. “Laurefindë brought it to my attention after the meeting this morning.” He continued after long moments, not wanting to talk about his sons’ outburst. “I agree with her recommendation but still I am reluctant to make changes until after the Winter Solstice.” He said, frowning into the dark liquid in his goblet. “I can think of any number of qualified officers.” Galion commented as he dipped a little more honey into his teacup. “Tauriel has been asking to return to the patrols.” Thranduil said quietly as he pondered the dark liquid in his goblet. “I have not wanted her back out there. I am either a glutton for punishment or out of my mind.” He sighed as he lifted the goblet to his lips, taking a long drink. Thranduil may be foolish in his heart yet in the end Galion knew logic would get the better of him, especially in matters involving the governing of the realm. Unlike his natural instincts on the battle field where quick action meant the difference between life and death, he was more of a thinker than his father and not known for expressing hasty judgements. A quality some members of his council members found to be more than a bit disconcerting, particularly when they wanted something from him. “What has changed your mind?” Galion asked quietly, even though he was pretty sure he knew the answer already. “She needs to work though things in her own way.” He said quietly, his fingers absently toying with the stem of the goblet as he rested it on the arm of the chair. “I need to give her the time to do that.” “You will not be able to keep avoiding her if she accepts the position.” Galion stated, frowning a little with concern. “I am not avoiding her.” Thranduil stated defensively, rolling his eyes at him. “I know Legolas has been following her since his return and is with her as we speak.” He added as he brought the goblet to his lips, swallowing the last of it in one long drink. “I do not wish to antagonize him any further.” He said quietly as he rose to his feet. “I will deal with this when the time comes. I believe I am ready to retire for the night.” “Will you have your morning meal here or go to the dining hall?” Galion asked as he got up and headed for the tray on the table. “I think I will go to the dining hall.” He replied absently, not willing to admit that he had been dining in his rooms to avoid Tauriel. “Ben iest gîn.” (As you wish). Galion commented, watching the king turn away from him and make his way toward his bed chamber. Reluctantly his thoughts turned to her, the feel of her body so close to his during their brief ride into the forest. The soft scent of her mingled with the lavender and lilac as he nuzzled close to her. A deep frown creased his brow as he laid his robes over the arm of the settee at the foot of his bed. She was the most vexing elleth (elf maiden) he had ever known, the fire within her that attracted him to her was unpredictable. “Yes, and you’re going to get burned if you keep stoking it.” Aldalómës’ words haunted him as he slipped into the comfort of his bed. Clasping his hands behind his head as he stretched out beneath the covers, he willed his body to relax as he felt his desire for her building within him. Staring unseeing at the polished oak of the canopy above, his thoughts turned toward his son. He knew he should have put an end to their relationship as soon as he became aware that it had gone beyond more than infatuation. It would have been easy enough to separate them yet it would have raised questions he was not prepared to answer, even to himself. Unaware of the smile that curled his lips, he remembered how upset she had been when Legolas joined the patrols. Both of them so young, squabbling like siblings, each vying for his attentions in their own way until Legolas started going on assignments that would take him farther from the palace and keep him away longer. They were only fleeting thoughts, things he did not wish to dwell on at the time yet now he wondered if his son had done so because his feelings had changed toward her. Sighing deeply, he frowned as he questioned himself and when his own feelings toward her had changed. She had grown up so quickly it seemed to him, when he found himself noticing just how beautiful she had become, the way her gowns clung seductively to her feminine curves, the way she would look at him sometimes. He remembered, the feelings she had incited within him as she shamelessly flirted with him. She had only laughed it off when he questioned her about it, claiming that she was only practicing on him. Now he was not so sure, recalling that was also when she had become so adamant about wanting to join the patrols. It was then that he saw the fire in her as she argued with him relentlessly over his refusals to sign the requests. Was he protecting the one he viewed as his daughter or an elleth (elf maiden) he had fallen in love with? Shaken as the question seemed to answer itself, he thought again of his son. There had already been so much that had passed between them as Legolas struggled to find himself in a world he had no control over. It was a world he knew all too well and would have protected him from it if he could. Guilt now twisted painfully in his gut as he thought of his conversation with Garävegión. Was he being selfish, catering to his own purposes that he only now considered abolishing the hereditary oath to the crown? The sleepless night had brought him no answers as he threw the covers back and pushed himself up from the bed. Making his way to his bathing chamber, he knew it was not an answer, only the disheartening realization that he had fallen in love with her. Pausing to look at his reflection in the polished silvered glass, he knew had it been anyone other than his son who shared the same feelings, he would have fought for her attentions. “You are a fool, this cannot lead to anything good.” Again Aldalómës’ words chided him in his mind as he turned away from the reflection. If he followed his heart, he would lose his son if he had not already done so. Dismissing Galion apologetically as he entered with his usual prattle, Thranduil sighed heavily. Normally he found humor in his friends’ incessant chatter but he was simply not in the mood for it this morning. Dressing himself quickly yet with care, he frowned at his reflection before shaking himself into the present. Pulling on the regal air of his position as if it were a protective cloak, he quickly departed his private chambers to make his way toward the dining hall. Greeted by the more subdued hum of morning conversations, he politely nodded and smiled his greetings as he strode purposefully toward the dais. Taking his seat between Lord Garävegión and Lady Laurefindë, noting the absence of his son, his gaze quickly scanned the myriad of faces in the room for any sign of her. Schooling his expression quickly only from years of experience, he smiled warmly as he turned to Lady Laurefindë. Meeting her knowing gaze evenly, he hid himself from her as she filled his teacup. A Sindar and Iathrim like himself, she was tall with silvery golden hair and soft blue eyes that seemed as deep as the sea itself. The wife of his fathers’ former council member, he had known her all his life and found it more than unsettling that she could read him so easily. It was impossible to hide the tension between himself and his son, a situation he was loath to have been made public as word had spread quickly of their confrontation in his study. “The prince departed with the patrols early this morning.” She told him, her tone much quieter once their morning pleasantries had been exchanged and the king had been served his meal. “I cannot say it does not surprise me.” Thranduil sighed as he spread the honey liberally over a slice of bread. “He is known for devising numerous ways of staying away from the palace.” He added, decidedly not wanting to openly admit that it was he himself that his son was avoiding. “Things do have a way of working themselves out.” She commented, her gaze searching his face as she smiled at him. “Children will always see the world differently than their parents.” She added reassuringly, noting his eyes glance once more toward spacious seating area below them. “Would that we could always protect them from that which has created those differences.” He said more to himself than as a reply to her observations. Most of the young elves crowding the dining hall knew only what they read in books about battles and the evils that threatened their world. Skillfully directing their conversation to the more mundane topic of various palace activities, she watched him in her motherly way. Slowly, in the years following the war that claimed the lives of his father and her husband, she had withdrawn from him. There were times such as now when she regretted having done so. After the fall of Doriath she had travelled with Oropher and her husband to the east and had known Thranduil as a child. There had once been hope in her heart that he would have wed her daughter Laûrläéthëe, but it was not to be as her daughters’ calling was elsewhere. Listening quietly as she turned their conversation toward the upcoming Winter Solstice Festival, his thoughts turned to Tauriel. She had continuously volunteered to go out on patrols rather than join the festivities, yet he said nothing to her, letting her think he had not noticed. He was happy that Laûrläéthëe had decided to attend this year, it had been too long since she had graced his halls for any reason. Absently running the names through his mind that he had listed on the requests he had signed a fortnight ago for Galion, he was glad to see that there were quite a few returning for the festivities this year. Regardless of the tension between them, he was happy that his own son would also be in attendance. The Winter Solstice marked the New Year for the elves, in his heart he prayed this was a good sign. Pretending to absently watch the milling elves in the main dining area, Lord Garävegión watched as Thranduil rose from his seat. Smiling as he returned the nod as he purposefully strode across the dais toward the door, he waited a few moments before meeting Lady Laurefindës’ gaze briefly. “Would you care to join me for tea?” She asked, pausing as she made her way toward the door herself. “I would be delighted.” He chuckled as he laid the napkin over his plate and rose from her chair. Clasping his hands loosely behind his back, he smiled and nodded as she talked of the upcoming festival. The halls were pretty much empty as they made their way toward her private chambers, as most were either still in the dining hall or already about their daily tasks. Still, there was no telling how many or whose ears may be listening, she switched the topic to her daughter as they continued toward the lower levels of the palace. “I will bring your tea shortly hiril vuin.” (My lady) Tälileá informed her with a respectful nod as Laurefindë closed the door behind them. “Hîr vuin.” (My Lord) She nodded toward Garävegión before turning away from them to check on the tea. “We can talk in the parlor.” Laurefindë said quietly, waving her hand toward the door on the other side of her public sitting room. “Both Tälileá and Táëglÿn will be leaving shortly.” She told him as they entered the parlor. “Elvändéruil is out with the patrols this morning, I do not expect to see him until later this evening.” She continued as they made themselves comfortable at the small table. “I notice that he seems to be quite a regular among the patrols lately.” Garävegión commented as he shifted himself to find a comfortable position in the overly padded chair. “Yes.” Laurefindë smiled yet she sighed thoughtfully. “For as much as he pretends not to care for his duties and responsibilities, his actions tell a different story. He has been going out there every day for the past few months. I worry for him, but then I worry for all of them.” “As do I.” Garävegión sighed yet smiled as Tälileá entered with the tea tray. “I do like Alythiyiá’s apple spiced tea but I prefer the much stronger flavor of the cinnamon spiced hazel nut.” Laurefindë commented as Tälileá set out their cups and filled them. “I will be fine Tälileá.” She said softly, yet effectively silencing the servant as she started to speak. “Go on now. Enjoy your morning.” “Ben iest gîn, hiril vuin.” (As you wish, My Lady) Tälileá replied with a smile as she nodded and quickly departed the room. “Do you think Thranduil is serious about the oath?” She asked as she reached for the honey pot. “You know him as well if not better than I do.” He stated, pushing the small pot closer to her. “Just the fact that he mentioned it is enough to know that it is something he has been thinking of for who knows how long.” “Well, if history is anything to go by it has been lurking around in his head for quite some time.” Laurefindë stated as she briskly stirred the honey into her tea. “It depends on when he actually realized he was in love with her that it voiced itself to him.” “You really think he’s in love with her?!” He exclaimed as he stared at her. “Oh for Eru’s (God’s) sake Garävegión! Look at him, he’s a mess!” She stated, shaking her head at him. “This business with Legolas only makes everything more complicated.” “In truth.” He sighed heavily as he wrapped his slender fingers around the teacup. “As much as he hoped Legolas would return, I do agree with you. But there are other things we must be more watchful of. As much as we hate to admit it, Thranduil does have enemies within his court who will fight against abolishing the hereditary oath.” “We will need to keep an eye on Lord Tirithiáël’s sons.” She stated thoughtfully. “Lord Oviëdó in particular.” Chapter End Notes Thanks again to all of those who are reading this! Sorry for taking so long to get this chapter posted. Sometimes my muse goes silent or takes me in a direction I don't want the story to go. ***** Truths & Lies ***** Chapter Summary Strange encounters on patrol raise concerns that there are more than shelob (spiders) that haunt the forest around the palace. Legolas expresses to Tauriel his acceptance that things have changed, yet still hopes to regain her love. Tauriel remains tormented as she struggles to find resolution within herself about her love for Thranduil. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “Check yourselves and gather your arrows.” Lárasarnë stated as he strode briskly toward a small group of the morning patrol. “We can break here.” “Are you alright?” He asked, his tone softer as he reached Aûraë. “I’m fine.” She replied absently rubbing her shoulder. “Since when do shelob (spiders) set traps?” “They don’t.” Dûrláën said angrily as he approached them. “Those tracks back there were not animal either.” “You think they’re orcs?” Gäérrÿk asked, watching Lárasarnë as he stepped closer to them. “I think they were made to look like orc.” Lárasarnë replied, meeting his gaze. “Orcs rarely walk single file. There’s something or someone else out here.” “What is it?” Eréndriël asked, her eyes filled with concern as Gäérrÿk walked back toward her. “We’re not alone out here, watch yourself.” He told her as he took the fist full of arrows from her, shoving them back into his quiver. “That goes for you to fool.” She retorted, frowning at him as they turned away from the group to find a comfortable place to take their break. “That was a crazy stunt you pulled back there.” She complained, her eyes narrowing at him. “He could have picked any group, why this one?” He grumbled as plopped down beside her and reached in his pack for a couple of the small bread rolls they brought with them. “Elvändéruil.” She laughed softly, reaching for her water flask. “What?” He asked, confusion radiating from his eyes as he handed her one of the rolls. “I swear, you ellyn (male elf) pay attention to nothing.” Eréndriël stated, the laughter in her eyes belied the scorn in her tone. "Legolas knows he’s been visiting Tauriel. He’s been to her rooms for the last three nights.” “They have been friends forever.” Gäérrÿk said, rolling his eyes as he shook his head. “Only you elleth’s (elf maiden) make something out of nothing with all your silly romantic ideas.” “I don’t hear you complaining.” She laughed, shoving him playfully with her shoulder. “Your mind is divided.” Elvändéruil said quietly as he approached the prince, some distance away from the others. “You could have been seriously injured or worse gotten yourself killed back there.” He added, his silvery gray eyes clashing with the pale blue of the prince. “I saw it.” Legolas stated, his eyes narrowing only slightly as he watched him lower himself onto the fallen tree beside him. “That is not the point.” He said, refusing to be intimidated by the anger he saw in his gaze. “There were already three archers on it. You endangered not only yourself but them.” “Are you questioning my skills?” Legolas stated more than asked as he turned slightly to face him. “No.” Elvändéruil replied, schooling his expression to one of indifference. “Only your state of mind.” “What do you know of my state of mind?” Legolas retorted, feeling the small muscle in his cheek begin to twitch as he glared at him. “I know that stalking her in dark tunnels will get you nowhere.” He said as he turned away from him to watch the others. “And what about you?” The prince asked more sharply than he would have preferred. He was aware of Elvändéruils’ disapproval of the relationship between himself and Tauriel. “I am as I have always been.” He stated as he rose to his feet. “Regardless of what you may think, we are only friends. If you truly intend to win her affections, stop taking the past for granted.” “What?!” Legolas blurted as he watched him walk away. “Let’s move.” Lárasarnë ordered, shaking his head in frustration as he turned his gaze away from the prince and the lord. “Träëliôrn you’re on point. Ivósaar and Nînquië take the rear. Everybody else, spread out, stay low.” ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ “Is he in?” Tauriel demanded more than asked of the sentinel as she strode purposefully across the large foyer at the bottom of the stairs. The words on the page in front of him blurred as Thranduil heard the sound of her voice just beyond the door of his public study. Recognizing the tone of her voice, he braced himself for the now unavoidable confrontation with her. “Hîr vuin.” (My Lord) Thalieth addressed him quietly as he opened the door. “Send her in.” He sighed, smiling almost apologetically at the longtime sentinel as he pushed himself up from his chair and walked around to the front of his desk. “Tauriel.” He stated without looking toward her, his tone official and far calmer than he felt as he lowered himself onto the edge of the front of his desk. It presented him in a less intimidating light yet allowed him to maintain the necessary authority of his position. “My Lord.” She addressed him formally, steeling herself as he smiled softly toward her. “Damn you!” Her mind screamed at him as she watched his eyes flicker over her quickly before meeting her gaze evenly. She felt her anger rising, seeing his guarded expression of indifference, as if she meant nothing to him. “Why are you ignoring my requests?” She asked, struggling to control her tone. “You promised you would consider it.” “And I am.” Thranduil replied, unaware of the soft smile that curled the corners of his lips as he admired her beauty. He sensed the struggle within her as he watched her body stiffen, her eyes flashed like brightly polished emeralds. For a brief moment he saw the young elleth (elf maiden) who fought him so adamantly all those years ago for the same reason. The beautiful, fiery spirit that had secretly stolen his heart without him even realizing it. “When!” She exclaimed as she clenched her hands into fists, her eyes narrowing as her chin lifted slightly in defiance. “I am suffocating within these walls!” “You need to be patient. Have I ever broken a promise to you?” He asked quietly as he rose and moved toward her. Stepping back slightly she felt the cushion of the chair against her legs as he stopped in front of her. Frozen in place as he took her hands in his larger ones, the tips of his fingers traced teasing patterns over her palms, sending shivers through her entire body. It felt as if the world around her shifted and there was only the two of them as she stared up into his face. The brief look of sadness flickered through his eyes so quickly, she wondered if it had been nothing more than her imagination. “No.” She said quietly, not trusting her voice, she squeezed his hands tightly to make him stop, feeling the warmth from them. “Don’t so this to me!” Her mind begged him silently as she continued to stare up at him. “There are things I need to consider first.” Thranduil stated, releasing her hands as he regained control over himself. “Like what?” She could not resist asking as he turned away from her. Her eyes narrowing as she folded her arms beneath her breasts. “My service should speak for itself.” “Yes, and I have considered it.” Thranduil commented thoughtfully, lowering himself back onto the edge of his desk. “But I also need to consider your state of mind.” He added as he clasped his hands loosely in front of him. “My state of mind?! How dare you!” Tauriel blurted, her eyes widening as she stared at him in disbelief. “There is nothing wrong with my mind! It’s not as if I’m asking for reinstatement to my former position!” She stated, quickly collecting herself as she noted the soft smile on his lips. “You have already fled once.” He stated calmly, tilting his head slightly as he studied her. “How can I be sure you will not do it again?” He knew he was taunting her yet it was necessary to get her to drop her guard and speak her true feelings. “You banished me remember!” Tauriel exclaimed angrily as she stepped closer to him, wanting desperately to slap the smirk off his face. “Then you drag me back here for what?! Just to toy with me as if I were nothing more than one of your little courtesans! As if I have no feelings of my own!” “Enough!” Thranduil snapped as he nearly leaped forward, trapping her within his embrace. “You know better than that!” He exclaimed, burying his face in the softness of her silken tresses as he hugged her tightly to him. “Do I?” She asked quietly, tears stinging the backs of her eyes as she turned her face from the lips that sought her cheek. “Tauriel...” “Thranduil, don’t...” She said softly, her voice choked yet she made no move to pull away from him. “We both know that what we may want can never be.” “You will not be reinstated to your former position.” Thranduil stated as he stepped quickly away from her, his tone far more calm than he felt. “I will inform you of my decision after the Winter Solstice and not before.” “Ben iest gîn, hîr vuin.” (As you wish, my lord). She stated, her eyes unreadable as she stared at him for long moments before turning away from him. Resisting the urge to flee, she strode purposefully out of his study with no clear destination in mind other than anywhere away from him. Frustrated, Thranduil went to the wine cupboard, collecting a carafe and a goblet he carried them with him as he sank heavily into one of the chairs in front of the hearth. Her words had hurt far more deeply than he would admit even to himself as he watched the flames lapping at the logs. Long buried yet never forgotten feelings of resentment burned with renewed anger in his heart toward his father as he stared into the dark liquid in the goblet. Old grudges and the foolish bitterness that were not his own still haunted him. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ Tracing her fingers absently over the soft leaves of the Dianthus plant, its tiny buds still hidden deep within the foliage, Tauriel let her thoughts wander to where they may. There had been so much happen in the past eight months that whatever she had once thought of as her normal life seemed ages ago. They had lost so many on the fields of Erebor in the Shadow of the Lonely Mountain. While she understood the dwarves desire to take back what was theirs, the cost had been great for all of them, the dwarves, the elves and the people of Lake Town. Time had smoothed the jagged edges of some of her own pain yet changed her life beyond her ability to reconcile with who she had once been. Thranduil, her king and the only father figure she had ever known had banished her from him and that pain cut deeply into her fäë (soul) far more than she would ever admit to him. Yet his change of heart had reawakened those long ago feelings for him that she thought she had buried too deep to feel them. The Woodland Realm, like Lórinand had always been Sindar ruled, something that was simply accepted by both the Silvan and Wood elves, she was unaware King Oropher had formalized it by decree. A sardonic smile curled her full lips as her train of thought flowed toward Legolas, who had been a brother to her. Her familiarity with him coupled with his whimsical view of life, his charm and wittiness had enchanted her. She knew now the love she felt for the son was not the same as what she felt for the father. Her smile softened as she remembered the feelings incited within her as Thranduil teased her palms with his fingertips, flirting with her in an old elvish courting custom. Galion was right to accuse her of being selfish in her feelings as the cruelty of that oath was a pain that went both ways. She did not know if he loved her, only that he desired her and she wondered if that would be enough for her. “Tauriel.” A familiar voice spoke softly next to her. “Legolas!” She exclaimed, startled as she glanced quickly around the solarium. “I have something for you.” He said quietly, a soft smile touching his lips as he brought his hands from behind him, presenting her with a bouquet of bright yellow Narcissus. “Will you walk with me?” He asked quietly, still smiling softly at her. “They are beautiful.” She said quietly as she smiled back, pressing her face into them. “I’m sorry...” “You have nothing to be sorry for.” He told her as he touched her elbow, gently guiding her with him as he turned toward the path that led deeper into the solarium. “I am not asking for your forgiveness, only the chance to make it up to you.” Together they walked in silence just as they had done so many times in the forest, there had never been a need for words between them. Her thoughts turned to those times, when just his presence near her was comforting to her. The smile in his eyes, the soft curl of his lips, and the gentle touch of his caress had been more than enough for her, or was it. “Do not give him hope where there is none.” The kings’ words haunted the back of her mind as she gazed down at the flowers. Narcissus, the first flowers before spring, meant to remind them of the forests rebirth and new beginnings. Long ago Legolas had confided in her that in his heart he had felt the call to other lands, often talking of places he read about in the many books in the palace library. She knew deep down he loved his father and the forest, yet he rejected the duty and responsibility of the crown. “I...” He began quietly, swallowing as he glanced toward her. “I did not understand and I acted childish. Can we talk in private?” He asked quietly as he stopped in front of one of the small rooms reserved for solitary meditation. “Please?” He implored, waving his hand toward the door. “I need you to know that it was never my intention to mislead you.” He told her as he closed the door behind them, turning the small lock. “Legolas...” “No.” He hushed her quickly, pressing a gentle finger to her lips when she started to speak. “I need to say this.” He continued as he took her hand and led her to a small stone bench, pulling her with him as he sat down. “I know things have changed and I will accept it if that is truly your wish.” He told her, smiling weakly as he took the flowers from her and laid them on the floor so he could hold her hands. “I have had much time to think about things.” He said nervously, pausing as he squeezed her hands, his gaze flickering about the room as he gathered his thoughts. “You are right. I knew my father could never allow it.” He said, his tone turning more serious as he looked down at their hands. “I did not think about it as he has taken lovers over the years and in my heart I prayed that he would fall in love with one of them and marry again, have more children and free me not only from that oath but the crown itself.” “I have been so blind to so much.” She said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper as she searched his face, seeing only pain. “It is not you. Part of me understands him.” He said, almost to himself, his gaze turning inward as he thought of his conversation with the Lady Gilaiwë. “He was as I am now when my grandfather fell at the Battle of Dagorlad. I know he was never the same after that.” “I do not understand the cruel nature of the fates.” He told her as he brought her hands to his lips. “When my father told me about my mother and how they were forced into a marriage that neither of them wanted, I promised myself I would not live the lonely life that befell him. I will marry only for love. My children will know the love of both a father and a mother.” “Yet it would seem that the fates have other plans for me.” He continued as he pulled her into his arms. “I will always love you Tauriel.” He whispered, nuzzling her ear softly. “I would have taken you with me to the ends of Arda (the world) if only to be with you.” Capturing her mouth as she turned to look at him, he kissed her searchingly as he felt her lean against him. Clinging to her, his kiss turned hungry as she surrendered to him. Trembling at the feel of her in his arms again, he savored the taste her and breathed in the scent of her. Holding her tightly, he pulled her with him to the thick moss covered floor. “Amin sinta lle, lle naa vanima?” (Do you know how beautiful you are?) He whispered, his lips brushing hers as he spoke. “What does it matter?” She asked herself as Thranduils’ beautiful face loomed in her thoughts, they were both bound by an ancient oath and sworn to another yet unknown elleth (elf maiden), never to be hers. The familiar feel of his soft kiss, his gentle touch awakened the deep longing within her, a need that had been building with each encounter she had with the king. Her heart ached for the pain she felt in Legolas, yet she felt it breaking for her own loss of the only one she knew she would ever love. Gradually as she surrendered to him, he felt hope rising in his heart matched only by his growing desire for her. Cradling her in his arms, Legolas slowly worked loose the tiny buttons down the back of her gown as he kissed her face. Caressing her cheek softly, he comforted her as he tasted the slight saltiness of her unshed tears. Frowning inwardly as he trailed his kisses to the warmth of her neck, he sensed something different about her. “I need you.” He groaned softly as he kissed her neck just below her ear. “I have dreamt of this moment for months, to hold you again.” He said, pulling back slightly to look into her eyes. “If you have found someone...” “I have been with no one since you.” She said softly as she tangled her fingers in his hair, pulling his face closer. “Make love to me.” She whispered, teasing his lips with her own. Tears stung the backs of her eyes as he pulled the gown from her shoulders, his lips capturing a tiny nipple as his hand cupped her breast, she had spoken the truth with her words yet lied in her heart. Struggling to clear her mind of any thoughts of Thranduil, she arched toward him as he gently suckled her breast. Her breath caught in her throat as he pulled her gown down to her waist, the slight chill danced across her skin, causing her nipples to harden even more. Lifting her hips as he pulled the gown free of her, reaching toward him as she watched him lay it over the bench. A slight smile curled her lips as she massaged the hard length of his swollen sex trapped in the tight silk of his leggings. Her smile broadened as she heard his breath catch as he froze for a moment, smiling down at her before quickly loosening the ties of his leggings. Closing her eyes, she let her mind drift back to other times they had enjoyed each other’s bodies on cool nights beneath the starlight. Her fingers absently caressed his cheeks and shoulders as he cupped her full breasts, his warm moist tongue flickering teasingly over her nipples. Moaning softly, she licked her lips as he trailed his kisses lower over her taut stomach, his hands caressing her skin, building the tension within her. Trembling, her fingers tangled themselves in his hair as he reached her sex. Gasping softly as he slipped his tongue between the lips of her sex, drawing it upward over the tiny pearl at the apex, that sent shivers through her. Pressing tighter against him as she felt his lips encircle it, the tip of his tongue moved teasingly over the aching little muscle. It had been so long and her need was great as she rocked her hips against his gentle almost teasing attentions. Smiling to himself, he moved upward, capturing her mouth in a long searching kiss as he pressed deeply into the warm of her sex. Groaning as he held himself tightly against her, struggling to contain himself as he felt her muscles flexing against his sex. Burying his face in her neck as he slowly rocked against her in short thrusts, savoring the feel and taste of her as he built the tension between them. Clinging to him as she felt him stiffen, she sucked her bottom lip into her mouth as his thrusts quickened. Pressing her cheek tightly against his as she felt the warmth of his release filling her, she blinked back the threat of tears at the frustration that remained within her. Chapter End Notes Again, thanks for reading!! Sorry, this chapter took a little longer to complete. ***** Revelations ***** Chapter Summary There is more danger in the forest than shelob (spiders) and they walk on two legs. Looking forward to returning the forest patrols, Tauriel reunites with some of her friends only to learn a little more about the King’s past that intrigues her. More importantly an old friend forces her to face her own feelings about him. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “Since when do my wishes mean nothing!?” Thranduil exploded angrily, his silvery blonde tresses flying behind him as he turned to face the small golden haired elf seated in one of the chairs before the hearth in his private study. “Thranduil...” “No! Not this time, nothing you say will stay my anger.” He cut her off, his eyes narrowing as he stepped closer to her. “This is inexcusable even from you!” He exclaimed as he leaned down, grasping the arms of the chair to steady himself. “This is not Lórinand Gilaiwë!” The tension in the room was thick as Tóriôn stood silently at the corner of the hearth, praying he would not be noticed. He had witnessed lovers quarrels between these two many times over the long centuries they had known each other. Never had he seen Thranduil so angry that he actually trembled in his struggle to maintain his calm demeanor. Glancing quickly at Lady Gilaiwë, he swallowed with difficulty as he noted the flush of her skin as she lifted her chin in defiance, her dark blue gaze fixed on that of the Elvenking. “If you would allow me to explain.” She stated quietly, refusing to shrink away from him. Yes, he was beyond angry with her and she understood that he had every right. “I have been beside myself with worry.” Thranduil stated, pushing himself away from her to resume his pacing in front of the hearth. “You were supposed to be here yesterday. With no word from you I could only assume the worst.” He continued, his tone quieter but no less angry as he glanced between the two of them. “I was delayed in Lake Town...” “You had no cause to be there.” Thranduil stated, glaring at her as he folded his arms across his chest. “But I did.” Gilaiwë insisted, shifting slightly in the chair as she glance at Tóriôn. “I thought it better that I go instead of Laûrläéthëe.” “What are you talking about?!” He asked, his tone more demanding than inquisitive as he stared at her. “She arrived here safely over a week ago and said nothing of this to me.” “Yes.” She sighed, nodding toward him. “And I have been in Lake Town since then. The death of Smaug has brought many from other lands flooding into Erebor.” She stated, meeting his gaze evenly. “There is a sickness there that is spreading. The human healers have not been able to contain it without succumbing to it themselves.” “I am aware of this.” He told her, a deep frown forming on his brow. “I have sent nearly half of my healers there to assist them.” “And they are doing everything they can.” She replied, her expression softening as her eyes implored him to understand. “Fládëithnôr has also sent additional healers. It took longer than I expected to get things taken care of. I had not realized how much time had passed.” She told him apologetically. “I wish you would have informed me.” Thranduil stated as he sank heavily into the chair opposite her, some of his anger dissipating. “Captain Lárasarnë has reported the presence of animal traps being set within our border. They followed a trail of odd footprints as close as a few miles west of the palace grounds.” “Why do you say odd?” She asked quietly, glancing at Tóriôn and then to the wine cupboard. “These are humans and clearly not hunters.” Thranduil said, a deep frown forming on his brow. “Lárasarnë believes there were at least three of them. He thought at first they might have been lost, the prints were disorganized and moved in different directions. What concerns me is why they would attempt to trick us into thinking they were orcs.” He stated, rubbing his temples as he leaned back in the chair. “Thank you.” Thranduil said, smiling weakly at Tóriôn as he handed him a goblet of wine. “Our forces were significantly depleted in the battle on the plains of Erebor.” He sighed heavily as he gazed into the dark liquid. “Even so, I have ordered Aldalómë to split the lines and take at least a third of the forces to the west just beyond the Enchanted River.” He said before taking a long drink. “I will not raise the alarm just yet.” He stated, turning his gaze toward the flames in the hearth. “The Festival of Winter Solstice begins tomorrow. There has been too much sadness already, short lived as it may be I will not have their joy disrupted needlessly.” ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ “It will be good to have you back with the patrols.” Aûraë said quietly as Tauriel walked back toward the hearth. “You have been missed these past months.” “Nothing has been confirmed yet.” Tauriel sighed as she sank back down onto the rug in front of her. “The king will not make a final decision until after the festival. I only know that it will not be the same.” She added, eyeing her friend suspiciously as she refilled their teacups. “Things change, people change.” Aûraë commented absently as she picked up her teacup. “What is it Aûraë?” Tauriel said, frowning from over her teacup. “You have been acting strange all evening.” “So have you.” She replied, frowning back at her as she flipped her long dark tresses over her shoulder. “I miss my old friend.” “What are you talking about?” Tauriel asked, studying her friend with earnest. “We stayed away for so long because we thought you needed time.” Aûraë sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly as she met her friends gaze evenly. “We are all very sorry for what you have been through Tauriel.” “But what?” She asked, her eyes narrowed slightly. It was not like Aûraë to speak in round about ways, it was one of the things she had always treasured about their friendship. “Why can you not see what everyone else sees?” Aûraë stated more than asked, a slow smile pulling at her full lips. “You’re in love with him, aren’t you?” She asked when Tauriel stared at her in silence. “I don’t know anymore.” Tauriel sighed as she turned her gaze toward the flames for a moment. “So much as passed between us. Things are not as they were before and I don’t know if it will ever be the same.” She said absently as she looked back at her friend. “True.” Aûraë said quietly, pausing to sip her tea. “The battle in Erebor has changed much for many of us, but I think especially for you. But you cannot dwell on the past. You must think of yourself.” “It’s all so confusing.” Tauriel said as she looked down into her teacup. “I have caused him so much pain already.” “Pain is part of loving someone.” Aûraë chuckled softly. “Do you think everything is always so great between me and Lárasarnë?” She added, grinning as she shook her head at her. “If he had his way I would be locked away somewhere popping out elflings once a year!” “Oh Eru (God)!” Tauriel exclaimed as she burst into laughter, nearly spilling her tea. “I can’t even see that!” “That’s my point.” She said, her tone becoming more serious as she caught Tauriels’ gaze. “My parents may be of noble rank but I know it’s different for you.” “I am no different than anyone else.” Tauriel stated, frowning deeply at the insinuation. Yet in her heart she knew that Aûraë was referring to the fact that not only had she grown up as a ward of the king, he had taken a special interest in her when she was but an elfling. “I have had to fight for everything!” She stated angrily, almost glaring at her. “And it was not given to you, you earned that position as a captain!” Aûraë exclaimed, her eyes widening slightly. “You did it all on your own but it does not change the fact that he has fallen in love with you.” “I’m not so sure that is what I want.” Tauriel sighed as she set the teacup on the ledge in front of the hearth. “Sometimes I think I would be happier if I could just go away where no one knew nothing about me.” She groaned as she buried her face in her hands. “He would only find you and bring you back again.” Aûraë told her, a slight frown forming on her brow as she studied the startled expression on her friends face. “He is in love with you.” She added, watching the flood of emotions wash over her face. “No.” Tauriel whispered, her eyes widening in disbelief. “Who did you think I was talking about? Legolas?” Aûraë chuckled, unable to contain herself at the shocked expression. “He only views me as he would a daughter and nothing more.” Tauriel breathed, her thoughts becoming blurred as images flooded her mind, her body grew hot as unwanted memories. The feel of his arms around her, the warmth of his lips on her neck, and the evening in his personal chambers. Yes, she knew but she had ignored it, buried it deep inside of herself. “You really do not see it do you?” She said softly as she watched the realization suddenly dawn in her friends’ eyes. “It doesn’t matter.” Tauriel stated, shaking herself from the memories. “Nothing can ever come of it. He is bound by an oath to marry only a Sindar.” “So is Legolas but who said anything about marriage?” Aûraë asked, arching a brow at her. “I told you, things change, people change. I think you are being foolish.” “Foolish!?” Tauriel blurted, staring at her in disbelief. “There are others he finds his comfort from.” She added, collecting the teapot to refill their cups. “You mean Galion and the Lady Gilaiwë?” Aûraë laughed, again finding her friends innocent ignorance quite humorous. “You are kidding me right?” “I know only what I hear but I don’t concern myself with the Kings’ private life.” Tauriel stated, plopping the kettle down loudly onto the ledge. “He and Galion have been lovers forever!” Aûraë laughed as she rolled her eyes. “Ever since the King was only a young Prince. It was actually Galion who introduced him to the feisty Lady Gilaiwë after King Oropher exiled him to Lórinand.” “How do you know so much?” Tauriel demanded more than asked, her eyes narrowing as she studied her friend. “You forget who I am related to.” Aûraë replied flippantly as she tilted her head slightly. “I do not know the whole story, they always stop talking about certain things when they realize I can hear them.” She laughed, pausing to take a sip of her tea. “Apparently King Oropher was furious when he discovered Prince Thranduil in bed with an ellyn (male elf), I do not know who. That is when he decided to arrange an appropriate marriage for him. It was my mothers’ sister Lady Laurefindë and Lord Garävegión who convinced him to send him there.” “Legolas told me that he was forced into the marriage with his mother.” Tauriel said quietly, her thoughts returning to their encounter in the solarium. “I understand it was very difficult for both of them.” Aûraë said thoughtfully, her gaze turning inward. “It is why he rejects it for Legolas. Love is more important than marriage.” “And this Lady Gilaiwë?” Tauriel asked, not really sure she wanted to know anything more about her. She vaguely remembered the small golden haired elf from her brief stay in Lórinand. “She is interesting.” Aûraë sighed, frowning slightly. “I have heard him refer to her as eshë nîn níëvé (notes). She has never married as there is some sort of understanding between them that if anything should happen to Legolas, they would marry only to produce a legitimate heir. So I guess you could say they have sort of prearranged their own marriage if it should come to that.” Curled in the comfort of the chair before the hearth long after Aûraë had departed, her words tumbled over each other in Tauriels’ mind. She had never paid much attention to palace gossip, spending most of her time in the forest or with her friends among the forest patrol. She had noticed over the years that certain ones would uncomfortably stop talking or change the subject when she approached, she assumed they were talking about the royal family as it only got worse after they became aware of the relationship between herself and Legolas. Staring into the fading embers she remembered Galions’ visit the day after she had gone riding in the forest with Thranduil. A soft smile touched her lips as she remembered him telling her that he had taken care of him since he was an elfling, even spoiling him. It was his comment that he had been alone for most of his life that brought the sting of tears to her eyes. Perhaps Galion had wanted to tell her more but she had been more than rude to him and she regretted it. For the first time in months she intentionally recalled the comfort of his strong embrace as he held her so tightly against him during the ride back from Lórinand. The scent of him surrounding her as he wrapped her in the warmth of his winter cloak, the feel of his body curled against hers beneath it as they slept. He was so different during their ride on the forest, more relaxed yet his arms still held her so close that she felt every subtle move of his body as he guided Maeglir with ease. The memory of being back in his private chambers pained her, he had tried to honest with her and she had rejected him. “Galion is right.” She thought angrily as she abruptly pushed herself up from the chair. “I am being selfish!” She chided herself, moving quickly toward the door. So angry with herself, she nearly slammed it behind her, she didn’t even notice as Côrnäith silently followed her as she made her way down to the lower levels of the palace. She was still not permitted to leave the palace and often sought the solitude of the meditation room when her own rooms felt as if they were closing in on her. Filled with many tall potted ferns and other leafy foliage, the sound of the splashing water flowing over the carved ledge into the pool below was as close as she could get the natural grottos throughout the forest. Closing her eyes, she thought about their ride in the forest, remembering the sound of the waterfall in the pine grove. A soft smile touched her lips as she remembered him telling her of the one near his former home in Amon Lanc, trying to picture the king when he was still a young prince and not weighed down with the cruel burdens of the crown. “Tauriel.” Startled from her reverie, she gasped in surprise as she swung around toward the quiet voice behind her. A myriad of emotions washed over her as she looked at him, the soft glow of the lamp light catching in his silvery blonde hair. He wore no crown or circlet as he stood there, dressed in simple yet exquisitely tailored dark blue robes that accented his broad shoulders and slender waist. Only the slightest of smiles curled his lips as he looked at her with uncertainty in his eyes, bringing back all of Aûraës’ earlier words. “May I join you?” He asked quietly, his smile lifting a little as he watched her. “Please.” She replied, not trusting her voice to say much more than that at the moment. “We do not have to talk.” He said softly as he approached her. “I come here myself sometimes when I need to think.” He told her as gently lifted her hair back over her shoulders, purposefully brushing the warm skin of her neck with his fingertips as he did. “But I need to talk.” She said softly, lowering her head slightly to avoid the soft expression on his face. “I need to apologize to you.” “Whatever for?” He asked quickly, lifting her chin with a gentle finger, forcing her to look at him. “There are so many things I don’t understand.” She said quietly as her gaze flickered over his beautiful face. “I have been so selfish.” “No.” He chuckled softly as he pulled her to him, wrapping his arms around her. “You owe me nothing of the sort.” He told her as he leaned down, kissing the top of her head. “Yes I do. I have acted like a spoiled child.” She said, pressing her face tighter against the softness of his robes as she slipped her arms around him. “Tauriel.” Thranduil said softly, pulling back slightly as he smiled softly at her. “None of that matters to me. You are like a daughter to me and I will always love you, no matter what.” “Only as a daughter?” She asked, her voice barely above a whisper as she stared up into his eyes. “Do you know what you are asking?” His voice was raspy as his throat constricted slightly. She felt him tremble slightly as his arms tightened around her, his gaze searched her own for long moments. “Yes...” Silenced as he pressed his lips to hers, Tauriel clung to him as she surrendered her mouth to him, melting against the length of his hard body. Trembling as he held her close, the warmth of his body, the strength in his arms comforting her as his kiss grew searching. Breathlessly she clung to him as she felt his fingers tangle themselves in her hair at the nape of her neck, pressing her mouth tighter against his. “Tauriel.” He groaned as he released her mouth, pressing his cheek against hers as his arms tightened around her. “I need to know this is what you truly wish.” He whispered in her ear. “I will send for you tomorrow evening. I will understand if you do not come.” Staring after him as he quickly released her and disappeared as silently as he had approached her, she felt a chill creep over her where she had felt the warmth if his body against hers. Hugging herself as she turned back toward the pool, never before had a kiss ignited such passion within her. Closing her eyes, she savored the feel of his strong arms around her, the scent of him still clung to her as her heart raced. Chapter End Notes Thanks again for reading!!   Eshë nîn níëvé - my friend in the sense of a trusted ally who is also a lover yet not life mate ***** Darkness Lurks ***** Chapter Summary A brief interlude between Thranduil and Tauriel only strengthens his desire for her and further complicates the struggle within him where Legolas is concerned. The palace is brimming with excitement as the Winter Solstice Festival has arrived, yet there is danger lurking in the shadows. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes Closing his eyes for a moment, Thranduil grasped the thick oaken mantel above the hearth as he struggled to regain control himself. The soft fragrant aromas of lavender and lilac lingered on his robes yet it was the scent of her and the heat of her body that tormented him. It felt so right as she slipped easily into his arms, molding her body against his own. The softness of her full lips, the slight tremble he felt in them as she opened her mouth, surrendering to him had more than stirred his desire for her. Shaking himself as he pushed himself away from the hearth, he strode purposefully toward his wine cupboard. Frowning into the goblet as he filled it, his frustration only deepened with his realization that everything had suddenly changed. He had only intended to steal the chance to be with her, to talk to her and make peace between them. Angering her in his study to get her drop her guard was something he disliked immensely. Having known her for her entire life, he knew exactly how far to push her to ignite the fire within her, yet he was completely unprepared for a fire that burn with such passion. Walking back toward the hearth, he sank heavily into his favorite chair as his thoughts turned to Legolas. There was a part of him that knew he was struggling to justify himself, nevertheless he had not allowed himself to acknowledge his feelings for Tauriel until he thought he had lost them both. Gazing into the flames, he found his mind and heart divided. Now that he had opened his heart to her, could he close it again even for his son. The guards had kept him informed of his sons’ movements within the palace since he was so determined to constantly shadow her when he was not making an annoyance of himself with the forest patrol. The last thing he wanted was another confrontation with his son. Taking a long drink from the goblet, he grew more frustrated. Captain Lárasarnë had privately confided in him over his concerns for the tension between his son and Lord Elvändéruil. It was clear that his son was jealous of the relationship between Tauriel and the young lord, making his choice even more difficult. He would not tolerate having his son calling into question decisions he made when it came to Tauriel. In many ways Thranduil credited himself for her stubbornness as he had never shown her any preference, rather he pushed her to challenge him because he knew she had it in her to be better than she thought she was. Banishing her had been the most difficult decision he had ever had to make, one that had hurt far more deeply than he cared to admit. The only justification presented to the council had been that she had already departed the palace and was unaware of his order therefore should not have been held accountable for having disobeyed him. Whether he wanted a confrontation with his son or not, he now realized that it was inevitable. The decision to abolish the hereditary oath was in truth personal and he could not deny it, regardless of the fact that his son had abandoned the realm, leaving him little choice. Still, there was the fact that the line of succession to the throne was weak and he could not bring himself to advocate an arranged marriage for his son or himself. Tipping the goblet to his lips, he frowned to find it empty. Sighing heavily, he sat it on the table by the chair and pushed himself to his feet and made his way to his bed chamber. The festivities for Winter Solstice were set to begin at midday and would run well into the night. He would be expected to be in attendance for the greater portion of the evening, making it a very long day indeed. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ “You seem rather excited this morning.” Nînquië commented, scooting over a bit as Tauriel took the seat beside her in the dining hall for the morning meal. “Why wouldn’t I be?” Tauriel shrugged, her gaze flickered briefly toward Aûraë as she made herself comfortable. “Oh, I don’t know.” Nînquië rolled her eyes. “Maybe it’s because you rarely attend the festivals anymore. Not to mention your glum mood last night.” Lowering her head slightly as her friends chattered excitedly about the festivities planned for the day, Aûraë hid behind her thick lashes as she looked toward the dais. Smiling to herself as she watched the kings’ gaze move over the crowded room, noting that his attention lingered for long moments on their table. “Has everyone decided on what they’re wearing yet?” Ilÿraná asked excitedly, her soft green eyes sparkling as she reached for the pot of honey. “I never know until I walk out of my rooms!” Aûraë laughed, reaching for her teacup. “She changes her mind at least a hundred times.” Lárasarnë complained as he approached their table. “I do not!” She exclaimed, feigning a hurt expression that was belied by the laughter that nearly radiated from her pale blue gray eyes. “I think we’ll find another table.” Rielassë commented, elbowing Lárasarnë jokingly. “They’ll drive us crazy with their silliness!” He said, rolling his eyes as he smiled at Nînquië who looked demurely down at her plate to hide her blush. Lárasarnë smiled and winked at Aûraë as he followed Rielassë to a nearby table where Ivósaar and Träëliôrn were seated. He really didn’t mind not sharing the morning meal with her, it was their day as elleth’s (elf maiden) seemed to live for these events with all their primping and fussing just getting ready. Stealing a glance toward the dais as the ellyn’s (male elf) interrupted their conversation, Tauriel smiled as her gaze met his for only a few moments but it was enough. Her heart sped up slightly as she remembered their brief encounter in the mediation room last night. She felt her face heat with her blush as she turned to find herself staring into Aûraës’ knowing gaze, a soft smile curled the corners of her lips. “I definitely think green is your color.” Aûraë said thoughtfully, her smile lighting up her face as she met Tauriels’ gaze. “Actually I think forest green would be the best choice. It will bring out your eyes and green always goes well with red hair.” “Is that why you always wear blue?” Tauriel laughed, her eyes dancing as she stared at her friend. “Of course!” Aûraë exclaimed feigning shock as she widened her eyes at her. “I usually wear dark blue to be precise.” She laughed, tossing her ebony tresses back over her shoulder. “The lighter colors get washed out with my dark hair and they do nothing to bring out these pale eyes.” She pouted, then broke out in laughter. Clearing his throat to keep from chuckling at the group of elleth’s (elf maiden), Thranduil only briefly met his sons’ gaze as he turned his attention to other tables throughout the dining hall. Normally the most subdued meal of the day, he could feel the energy flowing throughout the room. It was good to hear the sound of laughter and feel the excitement after everything they had all been through this past year. “No, I’m fine, thank you.” He commented quietly to the young kitchen helper as he carefully laid his napkin over his teacup, smiling as she made her way along the rest of the table. He was finished, merely enjoying the atmosphere of the room, waiting for the signal from Garävegión and Laurefindë that they were ready to depart. The next official council meeting was not for another two days, but there were things he needed to discuss and clarify with them before then. “I take it you’re ready.” Garävegión commented, arching a thin brow as he turned toward him. “Quite.” Thranduil sighed as he pushed his chair back from the table and turned to Laurefindë. “Ready?” He asked quietly, smiling as he grasped the back of her chair. “I thought you would never ask.” She chuckled, rising to her feet as Thranduil pulled the chair out for her. “I would rather get this out of the way so we can enjoy the festivities.” “Any word from Aldalómë?” Thranduil asked, turning toward Garävegión as they fell in step with each other. “Nothing new.” He shook his head as he clasped his hands loosely behind his back. “They are all in place and agree with Captain Lárasarnë. The footprints are definitely human but he doesn’t believe they were lost or even disorganized but he is still not sure whether they pose a threat to us or not.” “I had hoped to have only a few patrols out during the festival.” Thranduil sighed heavily, frowning as they strolled through the halls toward his private study. “Maybe that’s what they were hoping for.” Laurefindë commented thoughtfully as she glanced up at Thranduil. “They just didn’t expect us to find their traps. How many have been located?” She asked, turning her attention to Garävegión. “Only the three Captain Lárasarnë and his patrol found.” He stated, a deep frown forming on his brow. “It’s not so much how many since they were crudely made, it’s how close they are to the palace grounds that is most disturbing.” “Who did Aldalómë take with him when he split the forces?” Thranduil asked as they descended the stairs into his private area of the palace. “I believe it was Macilvoronhûr and Eluandúnië.” Garävegión replied as they followed the king into his private study, pulling the door closed behind him. “Good choices.” Thranduil said out loud but more to himself as he walked behind his desk. “How do we look at the eastern edge?” He asked, glancing up at Laurefindë as he seated himself in his chair. “As long as we keep the Forest River guarded I think we’ll be fine.” She replied, choosing the chair closest to the hearth. “If you want to remove troops, I suggest we leave at least one at the river and one near the Half Barrel Inn.” She said as she adjusted herself comfortably. "There’s been reports of unsavory ilk hanging about. They’re not so much interested in the lower region near the Mirkwood Mountains because of the shelob (spiders), but there’s clear passage through the realm if they go up river.” “Aldalómë has set his command post at the Vale of the Forked Pass.” Garävegión as he sank down in the chair closest to Thranduils’ desk. “The other two have set up outposts to the north and south of him.” “I hope we are making something out of nothing, but it is better to be prepared.” Thranduil sighed, leaning back in his chair. “Now for other matters.” He said, turning toward Laurefindë. “I know it has been discussed amongst the council but I want to know if you have any feelings on what direction the council might sway on abandoning the hereditary oath.” “You know you can just abolish it without the council.” She said, meeting his gaze evenly. “Yes.” He said quietly, a slight smile forming on his lips as he arch a brow at her. “Things tend to work better if I have the support of the council.” “Support is not unanimous but the majority will support it.” She replied, with a shrug. “The only hold outs are Tirithiáël and Thalión.” “I have decided to wait until Nost-na-Lothion (Spring Festival) to officially present it before the council.” Thranduil sighed heavily, the glances shared between them were not lost on him. “Why wait?” Laurefindë could not resist asking as she frowned at him. “Because I know how my son thinks.” He sighed, looking up at ceiling as if he were searching for the right words. “Right now that oath gives Tauriel control which is how I want it.” “I am not understanding.” Garävegión sighed, shaking his head as he glanced back and forth between the two of them, the confusion clearly written on his face. “They are bound, she is not.” Laurefindë chuckled, arching a brow at him. “It makes them both equal to her and puts the choice in her hands.” She added as Garävegión just stared at her. “Okay, I see.” He laughed, shaking his head as he leaned back in the chair. “You will have to forgive me. It has been a very long time since I had any interest in courtly games much less played them.” “However.” Thranduil chuckled at his friend. “I do have one other matter that involves Tauriel as well. I do not need the approval of the council nor do I care about their feelings on the matter of replacing Legolas as Commander of the Patrol. I will be giving the position to her.” He stated, his tone becoming more serious as he watched Garävegión. “I do not oppose the appointment.” He stated, although cautiously as he frowned at Thranduil. “If anyone should question it, what is the reasoning?” He asked. “My son has been bitten by the wanderlust.” Thranduil sighed heavily, his gaze taking on an inward expression of contemplation. “Whatever decision she makes will determine his actions. So again, I share my thoughts with you so you will understand. If her choice is in his favor, then nothing changes. If not, then I wish for his decision to depart from me to be based on that and not any decision I make.” “You know he will still blame you.” Garävegión stated, sadness creeping into his usually sparkling pale blue eyes. "Yes." Thranduil said quietly, already feeling the ache in his heart. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ “You idiots!” The tall dark haired elf hissed as he entered the room at the end of the hall at the Half Barrel Inn. His dark blue eyes glared angrily at the two men seated at the small table by the window. “Your traps have done nothing but alert the King of your presence.” “Yes and they have served their purpose.” Ardara replied, even as he shrank back from the anger so clearly visible in the elf’s face. “Look around you, the King has withdrawn most of his forces and sent them west.” “With people pouring into Erebor most of the elven forces were concentrated here.” Donagh stated, eyeing the elf as he lowered his tall frame into the remaining empty chair at the table. “Yes but he is not a fool.” The elf said quietly, a deep frown forming on his otherwise smooth brow. “Neither is his Chief March Warden. It will not take them long to figure out there is no threat and he will recall his forces closer to the palace.” “Your Winter Solstice has already begun aye?” Ardara asked as he leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. “Your task is not a simple one and the danger should not be taken lightly.” The elf stated as he leaned forward, resting his arms on the table as well. “The Sindar blood line to the throne must not be broken nor shall it be tainted.” “You may think us to be fools. We are not ignorant of the wrath of King Thranduil.” Ardara stated angrily, his eyes narrowing as he grew weary of the elf’s riddles. “It is a dangerous game you play. You have had centuries to remove him from the throne...” “That is not the purpose of your task.” The elf interrupted him. “We do not want him removed from the throne. It is only his decision to allow his only heir to marry outside of the rightful line to the throne that we oppose. The king is much loved by the people of the Woodland Realm and his political reach goes far beyond our borders.” “And you think killing one she-elf will change his mind?” Ardara stated more than asked as he arched a bushy brow at the elf. “She is not to be harmed.” The elf told him, his tone threatening as he leaned toward him. “We have waited long for a weakness that can be used against him. The she-elf you seek is the key to forcing his hand toward accepting the betrothal of his son to a Sindar of our choosing.” “What makes this one so special to him?” Donagh asked, leaning forward. “If he is so desperate to get his son married off, surly there are others. “No.” The elf sighed heavily, shaking his head as he turned toward the other man. “It is not his desperation that is his weakness. Unfortunately our king still believes in love. The prince is already in love with her and the king loves her as a daughter.” “Surly then she would be under his protection?” Ardara stated more than asked. “Perhaps even kept inside that fortress of his. How do we get to her?” He asked, arching a brow at the elf. “Elves are not like humans.” The elf stated, a sardonic smile curling his lips. “Both are well trained and willing to fight alongside one another in battle to the death if necessary. This one has a will of her own and has already served the king as a captain in his forest patrol for many years. In three days she will rejoin the forest patrols as their commander. Capturing her will not be easy, her fighting skills are of the highest among the patrols.” He continued, the sardonic smile twisting to a smirk as he watched the two men. “This is why your task is not simple and you must be cautious.” The elf continued after a long silence between them. “The depth of the kings’ love for his son is great and he will do anything to keep him near. That is why you will take her to the caves in the eastern end of the Mirkwood Mountains until we send for her.” “The Mirkwood Mountains are crawling with those damned spiders.” Ardara spat angrily as he pushed himself up from the table. “You ask much with only a small reward for our troubles.” “He is going to want proof that she lives. How do we give him that without risking ourselves?” Donagh asked, narrowing his eyes at the elf as his own anger rose from deep in his gut. “Leave that to us.” The elf stated as he rose to his feet and walked toward the door. “I will speak to you again in three days.” “I don’t like this.” Ardara stated, turning toward his companion after the elf had left them. “The sickness in Lake Town isn’t getting any better not to mention that it’s crawling with Mirkwood elves.” Chapter End Notes As always, thanks so much for reading!! This story has been really fun to write and I hope you are enjoying it as much as I am! ***** Conspiracies ***** Chapter Summary Conspiracies abound within the Woodland Realm. Some for power, others for love. The choice is made and stage is now set, for Thranduil and Tauriel there is no turning back. But what of Legolas? Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes The hour had grown late, many of the married couples and most of the older elves had long since departed the festivities, leaving the merriment to the younger ones. Perched comfortably at the end of the long table on the dais, Gilaiwë enjoyed the perfect view of the grand ballroom. A sly smile touched her lips as she caught sight of the young prince standing in the far corner near the minstrels. Although his expression was similar to the guarded indifference often worn by his father, it was obvious at least to her that he had not yet mastered the art of concealing his heart. Glancing in the direction of his intense gaze, her smile grew as she watched Lord Elvändéruil bow low before the beautiful young fiery haired former captain of the forest patrol. Always the gentleman, she watched as he guided her out onto the floor, maintaining the respectable distance between them as she smiled up at him. She definitely seemed more relaxed, the deep folds of her forest green gown flowing around her as they moved with the music. Sipping her wine sparingly she also felt the change in the atmosphere since Thranduil had retired for the evening. Part of her longed for the quiet serenity of her beloved Lórinand as she sensed an undercurrent and she was not quite sure yet if it threatened the Woodland Realm or Thranduil himself. The feeling heightened as she watched the young courtiers as they moved about like chess pieces, each one unaware that they were merely pawns in a much larger scheme contrived by power hungry older nobles. “What wickedness are you plotting in that beautiful head of yours?” Tóriôn chuckled, slipping into the seat next to her as he continued to watch the small group of ellyn (male elf) nobles near the prince. “What have you heard?” She asked as she continued to watch the dancers, ignoring his teasing. “Galion confirmed the rumors.” Tóriôn said quietly, schooling his expression as he turned his attention toward the prince. “Thranduil fully intends to abandon the hereditary oath, much to the dismay of certain nobles.” “So.” Gilaiwë sighed softly, her slender fingers toying with the stem of her wine glass. “He has finally admitted to himself that he is in love with her.” A playful smile touching her lips as she remembered how adamantly he denied it when he came to Lórinand to retrieve her. Part of her was a bit jealous yet she had no desire to bind herself to the throne of the Woodland Realm. Unfortunately, for whatever reason, the fates had once again dealt him a cruel choice between his love for his son and for the one he had loved as daughter yet now desired. “I am sure he did not come to this decision lightly.” Tóriôn commented quietly as he reached for the carafe to refill her glass. “I can see that it pains him greatly.” “No.” She agreed, frowning slightly as she turned toward him. “Unfortunately it was a decision made with his heart not his mind.” “You do not give him enough credit Gilaiwë.” He stated, his silver eyes silencing her as she met his gaze evenly. “Though he hides it well, Thranduil has always listened to the voice in his heart. In many ways, especially with his son’s willingness to abandon him, Legolas has left him no choice in this matter. He has already sacrificed much in the name of the throne, he deserves the right to be selfish once.” “So how do we help him?” She arched a brow as she lifted the wine glass to her lips. “According to Galion he has done well in over the past weeks, stepping aside to allow her the chance to decide what she wants. He has limited his contact with her only to official matters yet his desire for her deepens.” Tóriôn said quietly, turning his attention to the dancers as he leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. “Lord Elvändéruil has been more than gracious in humoring my request that he occupy her time this evening.” “What are you up to?” She asked, the sly smile on her lips belied the glare of her narrowed gaze as she watched him. “There, see it?” He stated, nodding toward the prince, chuckling as she turned, looking toward the far corner. Gilaiwë saw the flash of anger on the face of the young prince as the music faded, bringing the dance to an end. Lord Elvändéruil threw up his hands in mock despair before bowing to Tauriel as she was whisked away toward a nearby table by two young elleth’s (elf maiden). “One is the Lady Cäthdéirÿn, the only child of Lord Tulcë and the other is Lady Cëänielóra, the only daughter to Lord Thalión and Lady Malinaloxë.” He said quietly, smiling as they watched the prince move toward a table occupied by two ellyn’s (male elf) they recognized as members of the forest patrol. “You have been busy.” Gilaiwë chuckled, watching the Lady Laûrläéthëe lean close to Tauriel as one of the elleth’s (elf maiden) seated herself at the table while the other moved onto the floor with Lord Elvändéruil as the minstrels began to play again. “Please.” He laughed, his silver eyes dancing as he turned to look at her. “I leave the match making to the elleth’s (elf maiden), I am simply trying to figure out who is who. The other two at the table are her friends from the forest patrol, the ebony haired one Aûraë is the daughter of Lord Arthädión and Lady Presráë. The other one, Ilÿraná is the daughter of Lady Kÿriäén.” “Even so, you work very quickly.” She eyed him suspiciously from over the rim of her glass. “Again you give me too much credit.” He laughed as he wiggled his thin brows at her. “All I needed to do was speak with our beloved busybody.” “Galion, of course.” She chuckled, shaking her head. “You needn’t worry.” Laûrläéthëe whispered in her ear as she filled the goblet with the dark red Dorwinion wine. “It has been very much watered down.” “It has been a very long time since I have seen my brother so happy.” She laughed as she set the carafe back on the table, glancing around at the smiling faces of the others before turning back to smile at the surprised look on Tauriels’ face. “There was a time, long ago when I once looked at him the same as you do now.” She continued, her tone and expression softening as she met the young elleth’s (elf maiden) gaze. “Alas, he did not look upon me as he does you.” Dropping her gaze from the beautiful elleth’s (elf maiden) face, Tauriel felt the room spin around her as she remembered the first time she had seen her with Thranduil in the meditation room. He had been so upset with her for not informing him of her plans to attend the festival. She knew then that she was of some importance, only now realizing that her mother was none other than the kings’ longtime friend and council member Lady Laurefindë. “Tauriel.” Laûrläéthëe said softly, smiling brightly as she leaned closer to her. “My calling was elsewhere. All I care about now is his happiness and if he has found it in you, trust me when I say there are more than you realize who feel the same as I do.” “I don’t understand.” Tauriel said quietly, glancing around the table as all eyes seemed to stare at her “Oh, I think you do.” Cäthdéirÿn said quietly, her bright blue eyes dancing as she smiled at her with the same warmth as Laûrläéthëe. “The old ways are dying and we must look to the future if we are to survive.” “What are you talking about?” She asked, frowning deeply as she studied Cäthdéirÿn’s face. “If we are to survive what?” Tauriel shifted uncomfortably as they all seemed to be studying her. “Smile, you are supposed to be having fun.” Aûraë stated, smiling softly yet her tone was a bit scolding. “It helps if they believe we are little more than silly elleth’s (elf maiden) sitting here gossiping.” She added, her comment soliciting a burst of laughter from the others. “There is talk the king will petition the council to abandon the oath that separates Sindar from Silvan.” Ilÿraná stated softly, her gaze imploring her to understand. “If this is true then even the nobles will have the right to marry of our own choosing.” Staring at her normally quiet friend, Tauriel fell silent as she remembered the longing in her eyes before she turned away from Rielassë at the morning meal. A mixture of both Silvan and Sindar, there was a tight comradery among those of the forest patrol, their lives depended on each other out there and they knew it. Regardless of her noble birth, Ilÿraná was still Silvan and considered by some as less than those of Sindar heritage and Rielassë was Sindar. “Thranduil has had centuries of practice at hiding himself behind one formidable mask after another.” Laûrläéthëe said quietly, a soft smile touching her lips as paused to take a sip from her goblet. “I can count on one hand those who know him well enough to know that he loves you. But he is no fool.” She added, her tone taking on a bit of warning note. “He will not ask it of you.” She stated, studying the young former captain of the patrol. “He is well aware of his son’s feelings for you. Soon you must make a choice between them and it will not be easy for you.” “What of Legolas?” Tauriel asked, her voice was barely above a whisper as tears stung the backs of her eyes, knowing if she followed her heart the choice was clear. “There are those who have lost faith in the prince.” Cäthdéirÿn told her softly as she reached over to grasp her hand. “It has nothing to do with you. The prince is ruled too much by his heart, but he is impetuous like his grandfather and has never hidden the fact that he has no desire to rule.” She added quickly, squeezing her hand. “Come, I know that he wishes to see you tonight.” Laûrläéthëe said quietly, smiling as she rose to her feet. “They are enjoying themselves tonight and will have fun distracting the prince for you.” “Why are you doing this?” Tauriel asked, casting her a sideways glance as she rose and turned away from the table and from Legolas. “Many reasons some that cannot be explained.” Laûrläéthëe said quietly, clasping her hands loosely behind her back as they strolled casually toward the large doors of the ballroom. “They are right you know, the old ways are dying. Thranduil never believed in the separation of us as a people. I would never burden you by implying that this is your duty, yet as one who understands the weight of it, you are one who can also understand him.” “I closed my heart to him once.” Tauriel reluctantly admitted as they reached the corridor that led to her rooms. “Fleeing into the forest, to spare my heart the pain of what I could not have.” “There are many who still believe in fate.” Laûrläéthëe stated, her gaze turning inward for a moment. “There is no higher power that guides our lives, only the strength within ourselves to become what we need to be when the time comes.” “What am I supposed to do?” Tauriel asked quietly, a nervous feeling settling over her as they reached her rooms. “Follow your heart Tauriel.” Laûrläéthëe told her softly as she took her hands firmly in hers. “You have been given much to think about, but not tonight.” She said as she leaned closer to her. “Tonight he is not a king, he is just an ellyn (male elf) whose heart yearns for the one he loves.” She whispered as she hugged her tightly. Turning away from her as she entered her rooms, Laûrläéthëe walked quickly toward Côrnäith, the guard who stood silently in the shadows of the tall statue near the stairs leading down to the kings’ private areas of the palace. “It is the kings’ wishes that she not be disturbed.” She told him quietly. “Ben iest gîn, hiril vuin.” (As you wish, my lady). The guard replied after casting a glance toward Thalieth, the guard standing watch on the landing at the bottom of the first set of stairs. Swallowing against the lump in her throat as she closed the door, Tauriel felt as if her heart would burst. Walking toward the glowing hearth, her mind raced as she struggled to grasp not what they had told her, but with what had not been said and her own feelings. All her life Thranduil had been the one constant, first as her father, her protector and as her king. It had always been his strength that she had leaned on so selfishly and he never failed her, not once. Even when he banished her, she knew what it had cost him. She owed everything she was to him. Hot tears leaked from the corners of her eyes as she stared into the flames. How it must have pained him to choose between his love for his son and the love he felt for her and he was being forced to do it again. The folds of her gown swirled as she turned and fled to her bathing chamber. Grabbing a soft cloth, she soaked it in the cool water in the small bowl next to the basin. Shaking herself angrily for her weakness, she quickly washed away any signs of her tears and stared at her reflection in the polished silvered glass as she collected herself. Frowning slightly, Thranduil watched in silence from the shadows of the small private sitting room opposite the hearth in her rooms. Concern etched in his brow as she walked back into the sitting room, a strange expression on her face yet there was soft smile that curled her lips. He let his gaze travel appreciatively over her as she walked back to the hearth. The simple yet elegant gown draped seductively over her feminine curves, artfully revealing nothing of the treasure hidden beneath the fine silk. Unhindered with her customary braids, her bright auburn hair hung freely to her waist. “My Lord!” She gasped, instinctively stiffening as his arms closed tightly around her, pulling her against the length of his body, the familiar scent of him washing over her. Trembling, a faint moan escaped her throat as she felt the heat of his lips brushing softly against her neck. Closing her eyes, she felt her entire body shudder as he gently suckled the soft flesh of her earlobe, his breath so warm against her skin. “I will not ask of you what you do not freely give.” He whispered softly, his lips brushing her neck as he slid one hand down the length of her taut stomach. “Is your answer still yes?” He asked quietly, pressing her against his hips. “Yes.” She whispered, relaxing against him as she grasped the arm holding her so possessively just beneath her breasts. Swallowing against a parched throat as she felt the hard length of his desire pressing against her lower back. Thranduil felt his heart leap as he gathered her into his arms, cradling her against him, he turned away from the hearth. Smiling to himself as he strode purposefully toward her bed chamber, his long legs clearing the distance quickly. Lowering her to her feet as he reached the edge of the bed, he took her face in his hands, capturing her mouth in long searching kiss. “Aye Eru (God)!” He groaned silently, he felt her lifting herself upward, thrusting her hot little tongue into his mouth. His breath quickened as their tongues entwined, intensifying the growing pain in his groin. Many nights over the long months her emerald eyes and the sound of her sweet laughter had tormented him in his dreams with no relief. Reluctantly, he released her mouth only to turn her away from him, hugging her tightly against himself for a moment before lifting her hair over her shoulder, he paused to lean down kissing her neck softly. His nimble fingers made quick work of unfastening the row of tiny buttons down the back of her gown. Slipping his arms around her as he pushed it from her shoulders, he teased her taut nipples through the thin silk of the soft chemise, smiling to himself as she trembled and leaned against him. “Thranduil...” She breathed, turning her face toward him, her body trembling as her legs grew weak beneath her. Silenced as he leaned down, slipping his tongue into her open mouth as he tightened his arm beneath her breasts. Her arms trapped at her sides, she lifted herself onto her toes as she snaked her tongue into his mouth. Moaning softly as he slipped his hand between her warm flesh and the thin silk of her undergarment. Clenching her hands as she felt his finger slide between the lips of her wet sex, drawing the tip of his finger upward to the find the sensitive spot at the apex. Squirming at the touch, her moans grew louder as he massaged her now very slick pearl, building the tension within her. “I dhû hen and.” (You’re in for a long night) He whispered in a voice thick with desire, his lips brushing teasingly over hers as he spoke. “I have thought of little beyond this moment since last night.” He told her softly as he removed the soft silks of her undergarments, casting them aside, he gave her a gentle nudge toward the bed. Climbing into the center of it she turned to face him, only now realizing he had changed from his official robes, he wore no crown, only a soft blue tunic and gray leggings. She watched in awe as he pulled the tunic over his head, tossing it carelessly on top of her gown. Her gaze flowed over his tall frame, admiring the toned muscles of his broad shoulders and chest. She felt her mouth go dry as the leggings slipped freely to the floor, revealing far more than a slender waist and strong thighs. Gathering her into his arms as he slipped into the bed with her, he was content for the moment to simply hold her. Kissing her lips and face softly, waiting patiently for her to relax before turning to her neck, trailing his lips slowly toward her hardened nipples. Clenching her jaws to keep from crying out, she tangled her fingers in his hair as he flicked one nipple before pulling it into the warmth of his mouth. There was no pain yet it was not the gentle teasing she had known with Legolas. The warm mouth at her breast suckled like a babe starved for it as his tongue swirled over the hard little bud, sending jolts of pleasure through her as he moved between them. Grasping her wrists as he trailed his kisses lower over her taut stomach toward her sex, he held them firmly. Settling himself between her thighs, he watched her through narrowed eyes as he slid his tongue along the crevice of her sex. Smiling as she lifted her head to look down at him, he pressed his face tightly against her sex, thrusting his tongue into her. Encircling her swollen pearl with his lips, he suckled it firmly as he teased it with the tip of his tongue. “Ahh!” Tauriel cried out, her thighs instinctively tried to close against the pleasure that bordered on pain. She heard her own voice as if in a distance, moaning shamelessly as pleasure beyond anything she had imagined coursed through her body. With a mind of its own, she felt her body responding to that tantalizing mouth and tongue as she rocked hard against him, seeking release from the near painful tension he had built within her. Smiling as she arched against him one last time, Thranduil lapped greedily at the sweet taste of her fluids before moving up over her. Capturing her mouth in a hungry kiss, he carefully guided himself in place and slowly entered her. A soft whimper escaped his lips as he rocked forward, the tight sheath of her sex gripped him as he buried himself in her warmth. Wincing slightly as he felt her fingers digging into his back, he held himself still, allowing her to grow accustomed to his presence within her. Slipping his arms beneath her shoulders, he cradled her head in his hands as his kiss turned more searching. Breathing in the fragrant aromas of lavender, lilac, the familiar scent of her, and now the stronger scent of their passion, Thranduil wanted the moment to last forever. Slowly as he rocked against her, savoring the feel of her flexing muscles, he felt her moving with him. Her fingers tracing teasing patterns over his back, sent shivers through him as he struggled to hold back his release. Feeling him tremble, Tauriel wrapped her arms around him as he stiffened, groaning painfully as he buried his face in her neck. His breath was ragged as tension broke within him, his hips jerked forward as she felt the warmth of his release filling her. Chapter End Notes Sorry this one took so long to get posted, just had a lot of things going, unreliable internet being one of them! As always, comments are welcome! ***** The Plot Thickens ***** Chapter Summary As Thranduil and Tauriel finally declare their love to each other, there are those that plot to tear them apart. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes The fire in the hearth had burned down to little more than a few glowing embers as the last dregs of sleep lifted from him. A slight smile curled Thranduils’ lips as he recalled the events of the festival but more particularly the events that followed and resisted the urge to hug the soft warm body closer to him. The room was filled with the aromas of her preferred lavender and lilac, the scent of her filled his senses as he lay there quietly with his face buried in the soft silkiness of her hair. One arm possessively holding her around her slender waist, he was more than aware of the firm breast he held gently in his hand. The warmth of her naked body pressed so tightly against his own as he curled around her had stirred his desire to an ache in his groin. Forcing his mind to other things he allowed her to sleep as he mentally shook his head at her unpredictable nature. She alone had the ability anger him beyond reason with her stubbornness yet a certain glance, a smile or a touch could incite such a desire within him that he was willing to throw caution to the wind. He loved his son beyond words yet he knew with deep regret that once he learned of the liaison things would be forever changed between them. Instinctively he tightened his arm slightly around her, his thoughts turning to their confrontation is his private study the day he had returned to the Woodland Realm. He thought of the previous evening in the meditation room, questioning his reasoning. While he had told himself he only wished to speak with her and to make peace between them, the nagging voice of his conscience knew otherwise. He had been unable to resist any excuse to touch her as he stepped behind her, brushing the soft warm skin of her neck with his fingertips as he lifted her hair. His mind told him he should have accepted her apology and left it at that, while his heart could not because she had in truth done nothing wrong. Stretching slightly as sleep began to slip from her, Tauriel awoke completely. Everything came flooding back through her mind like a raging river threatening to sweep her away. She had been so swept up in the excitement of the festivities there was so much she had not noticed. Legolas loomed in her thoughts, his stern expression as Elvändéruil became even more possessive of her than usual. The strange knowing glances as the faces of Aûraë and Ilÿraná loomed before her minds’ eye as bits and pieces of their conversation tugged at her memory. In a blink of an eye all of it washed over her and was gone, replaced by her awareness of him as he held her possessively against the hardness of his warm body. She felt the heat of his breath on her neck, the soft caress of her breast held gently in his hand. Her breath caught in her throat as she felt the hard length of his desire pressed firmly against her backside, her heart raced as her own desire began to stir between her legs. Trembling at his touch, she felt his fingertips trace teasingly down her stomach, slipping easily between her thighs. A soft whimper escaped her lips as she felt the hand at her breast gently roll her nipple in his fingers as the other explored the growing wetness of her sex, dipping deeply into her only to draw upward to massage her swollen nub. Her soft whimpers grew into deeper groans as he continued to pleasure her, playing her body as a minstrel would his instrument, he seemed to know just where and how to touch her to make her want him more. Gasping as he moved over her, capturing her mouth in a long searching kiss. Struggling for breath beneath the onslaught of his hungry mouth, she dug her nails into the muscled flesh of his shoulders as she felt the hard thickness of him enter her. Arching slightly against the pleasure mingled with a discomfort that bordered on pain, she clung to him as he gently rocked against her. Slowly the discomfort subsided as he built the tension between them, holding her in gentle yet strong arms. Cradling her head in his hands, he struggled to hold back as she tangled her fingers in his hair, returning his kiss with a passion of her own as her hips rose to match his need. Pulling back slightly, he teased her lips with gentle kisses and soft whispered words of love as he felt her flexing muscles drawing her closer to her release. A deep groan escaped his lips, his body stiffening as he felt the tension suddenly break, draining his release from him. Smiling to herself as he lay spent on top of her, Tauriel turned toward him, pressing her cheek against his. Closing her eyes, she became more aware of his muscled body, the sound of his ragged breaths, the feel of his heart beating against her breasts. Slipping her arms around his waist, she breathed in the familiar scent him now mingled with the stronger scent of their shared passion. “Good morning.” He whispered after long moments, his lips teasing the softness of her earlobe as he spoke. “Mmmmm.” Tauriel purred softly, turning toward his face, kissing his parted lips. A slight smile curled her own as she teased his lower lip with the tip of her tongue. “You keep that up and I will keep you abed all day.” He growled playfully, moving quickly to capture her wrists. Pulling them over her head as he smiled down at her, his mouth close enough to hers he could feel her soft breath on his lips. “I think I would enjoy that very much.” He added, his lips brushing her chin as he spoke, his deep voice laced with desire. “I think I would like to be able to walk.” She laughed softly as she squirmed teasingly beneath him. “I did not hurt you did I?” He asked, stiffening as he released her wrists quickly, genuine concern thick in his voice. “Oh no!” She exclaimed, her tone carried a hint of laughter as she wrapped her arms around his neck. “I was only picking on you.” Capturing her mouth in tender kiss, he cut himself off before he spoke. It had been many years since she was that little elleth (elf maiden) who used to pick on him for his funny ways as she would call them. They seemed to argue more now that she was older and he was no longer used to her humor and teasing banter. “Tauriel.” He sighed heavily, pulling back slightly from her yet still held her possessively in his arms as he struggled with the reality of their situation. “I love you.” He whispered softly, his lips teasing hers as he spoke. “There are things we need to discuss.” He added as he placed soft kisses over her face, lingering once more on her warm responsive lips. Swallowing against the lump in her throat, Tauriel brought her hands to his face, gently tracing her fingertips over his cheeks. She could feel his body tensing as he studied her, waiting for some response yet her thoughts raced chaotically in her mind. Pulling his face to hers, she kissed him deeply, savoring the taste of him even as she felt the tremble of uncertainty in his lips. “I love you Thranduil.” She whispered, her arms slipping around his neck as she pulled him closer. “My heart has always belonged to you.” ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ “You are late.” Lord Tirithiáël stated, his tone quiet yet carried easily across the wide expanse of his public sitting room. “I apologize Adar (Father).” Lord Ortäuré said quietly, nodding respectfully toward him as he approached the large hearth to join him. “I was forced to remain in Erebor longer than I had originally planned.” “Forced?” Lord Tirithiáël asked, arching a brow as his unreadable pale blue eyes studied his son. “Ayë.” (Yes) Lord Ortäuré replied as firmly yet as respectfully as possible. “You were correct in assuming the traps had been set by Ardara and his men. Unfortunately, it took longer than anticipated to find and destroy them all. Even so, I am not sure we were successful.” “It is my understanding that Captain Lárasarnë reported only three?” Lord Tirithiáël continued, the disapproval dripping from his tone as he turned toward the low table in front of the settee. “I would think you could have dispatched them quite easily.” He added as he picked up the carafe of wine from the tray on the table, pouring a goblet for his son. “We actually found twelve scattered toward the west and southern regions.” Lord Ortäuré stated, his own pale blue gaze meeting that of his fathers’ as he accepted the goblet. “It was necessary to not only destroy them but to remove any trace of them.” “I am concerned this will create an unnecessary stain between our two houses.” Lord Tirithiáël sighed as he sank down into one of the chairs before the hearth, motioning his son toward the one opposite him. “While Lord Thalión appears agreeable to my proposal, the Lady Malinaloxë is far less inclined.” “Oviëdó has agreed to this?” Lord Ortäuré asked as he shifted uncomfortably in the chair. “He will do as he is told.” Lord Tirithiáël stated calmly although his eyes flashed angrily at his eldest son. “As will you when the time comes. A marriage between our two houses will remove the suspicion from me.” “And what is it you would have me do Adar?” (Father) He asked, his eyes narrowing as he watched the play of expressions chase themselves across his fathers’ face. “Tomorrow is the last day of the festival, I trust you will be in attendance?” He replied, ignoring his sons’ question for the most part. “When the council convenes Thranduil intends to appoint the little wench as Commander over the Forest Patrol.” He continued when his son only nodded. “As if the physical confrontation in his study was not enough, this will drive a wedge further within the royal house.” “I am not as confident as you that he will bend to any demands.” Lord Ortäuré said quietly as he studied his father. “Many have tried in the past only to suffer the consequences of his wrath.” “This I believe he will do.” Lord Tirithiáël chuckled, his eyes almost dancing as he smiled at him. “The only reason he wants to abolish the hereditary oath is so he can have her to himself.” “Oh come now.” He laughed throatily as he watched his sons’ brow raise high on his forehead. “Anyone paying attention can see the fool is in love with her. Which is why you will make sure she is never returned to the Woodland Realm.” “You cannot be serious?!” Lord Ortäuré blurted in disbelief, nearly dropping his goblet. “You will do as you’re told!” Lord Tirithiáël exclaimed angrily. “It is improper but Oviëdós’ betrothal to Lady Cëänielóra will secure the support of the Silvan elves but I will secure the throne through your betrothal to Lady Cäthdéirÿn. See to it that you pay special attention to her this evening, now leave me.” “Ben iest gîn, hîr vuin.” (As you wish, my lord) He spat angrily as he pushed himself up from the chair. Turning his gaze away from the retreating form of his son, Lord Tirithiáël stared into the flames of the hearth. He had waited many long years for the tides to finally turn in his favor and one little Silvan elf wench was not going to stop him now. The only two obstacles in his way were Lord Garävegión and the Lady Laurefindë and they were unfortunately too close to the king for his comfort. Already there were far too many Silvan elves sitting on the council and acting as advisors to the king for his liking. A slight smile curled his lips as he lifted the goblet to his mouth. He may have referred to him as a fool for allowing the elleth (elf maiden) to steal his heart, but Tirithiáël knew better. Thranduil was not so easily swayed from his responsibilities to the throne. He recognized it for the tactic it was, by allowing the rumors to spread that he was considering abandoning the hereditary oath he would definitely further endear him to the Silvan elves. However, there was still the problem of the younger nobles and their proclivity for abandoning the old ways of duty and honor. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ “So, you actually told her everything?” Gilaiwë said quietly, her dark blue eyes dancing with the laughter she managed to hide from her voice as she stared at him from over the rim of her wine glass. “Yes I did.” Thranduil sighed, yet he smiled as he gave her that look that told her he really did not want to talk about it before turning to look out over the ballroom as the minstrels began to play again. “Oh no you are not getting out this dear one.” She laughed softly, noting the slight color creep from beneath the collar of his formal robes. “We discussed a great many things.” He stated, his gaze flickering quickly over Tauriel as Lord Elvändéruil drew her once more onto the floor. “It would seem that my private matters have not been kept so private.” He added, arching a brow as he turned back toward her. “Not I!” She exclaimed yet could not help chuckling at his obvious embarrassment. “I take it she already knew about Galion as well?” She asked, shifting uncomfortably beneath his irritated gaze. “I am not sure if this is merely the calm before the storm.” He said quietly, pulling on his mask as he turned back toward the ballroom. “I tried talking to her once before and only succeeded in angering her.” He commented, smiling as he nodded toward Lord Garävegións’ daughter, the Lady Saélihn as he briefly met her gaze. “She was not yet ready to hear it.” Gilaiwë said almost to herself as she followed his gaze out onto the ballroom floor. “It is good that she has Elvändéruil to lean on, he already follows her everywhere.” She added as she watched the two of them together. “They have been friends for many years.” Thranduil said, turning his attention toward one of the tables closest to where his son stood. “I have already spoke with Laurefindë about appointing him as her personal guard once she assumes the role of Commander of the Forest Patrol.” “Are you sure that is necessary?” She asked, her eyes widened slightly as all thoughts of picking on him faded when she noticed the strained expression on his face. “Within the week I will discuss things with Aldalómë and select others whom I trust to watch out for her.” He said, forcing a smile as he turned back to her, his gaze staring deeply into hers. “I have brought her into a world she knows nothing about. She will be easy prey for those who seek to control me.” “Thranduil...” “I have felt it for some time now.” He quietly interrupted her as he picked up his goblet, taking a long drink. “I have yet to learn who is behind it but I will not take chances that any harm come to her because of me.” “Tóriôn and I can remain here as long as you need us.” She told him as she reached over, giving his hand a firm squeeze. “It would be nice to have you stay.” He said, flashing her a genuine smile as he patted her hand. “It has been good to have so many back in my halls again, it has been a long time.” He added as he turned his gaze once more to scan the ballroom. Chapter End Notes Thanks for reading!!! I’m only working on one story now so I am hoping to be able to post new chapters more quickly as I personally really want to finish this story myself! But I don’t want to rush it at the expense of the story itself. End Notes Thanks for reading! I frequently use Sindarin words in my writing and try to put the English translation in parenthesis immediately afterward. I also use terms that require longer translations and rather than bog down the reading, the translation/explanation will always be provided in the End Notes for that specific chapter. Comments are always welcome! Thanks! Please drop_by_the_archive_and_comment to let the author know if you enjoyed their work!