When A Shadow Falls
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the Lord of the Rings characters...only the ones I have created (such as Graelath, Lowgala, etc...) All others belong to Mr. Tolkien and company. I am not making any money from this writing, just love to do it!!!
Rating: PG-13 for violence and bloody scenes I guess (and there is torture later)
Spoilers: Well...I guess a small one for Return of the King because it is set after that movie and assumes Aragorn is king. But other then that, I only vaguely reference the movies, if at all.
Timeline: The story is set about two years into Aragorn's reign as King; before Frodo, Elrond, Galadriel, and Gandalf leave for Valinor.
REVIEWS ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED...I don't like flames much (who does!) but if you absolutely MUST flame me...try to be civil at least. Criticize specific points, don't just say, "Your story sucks!"
Special thanks: Go to phoenixqueen for all the help she has given me with this story.
Note: Originally I had this story posted through chapter 20, but I realized that there were several parts that were inconsistent and didn't flow correctly, so I have taken down these chapters and begun a detailed revision, and this is also why the first chapter is not the same as when I originally posted.
Final Note: As it stands now, MOST of the story is finished and the end should be up very soon...I didn't really leave any big cliffy or anything, but I have things to wrap up at the end. PLEASE don't let that deter you from reading!
-Gwenneth
Chapter 1: Vague Warnings
Sometime shortly after the Last Alliance and the cutting of the Ring from Sauron's hand:
The sun was setting over the hidden isle of Valinor. As Anor slowly sank into the sea, the pure orb washed the beautiful paradise in warm shades of golden-orange light. The voices of the Valar and the elves living on the hidden isle rose in song, bidding farewell to the day and welcoming the comforting light of the stars, praising Varda, called Elbereth, for her glorious creation. And yet, there were two voices missing from the song of the Valar, for they were engaged in serious conversation in the halls of Ilmarin, the dwelling of Manwe and Varda.
The two Valar walked slowly through the halls, speaking of recent events in Middle Earth, such as the Last Alliance of Men and Elves, and the defeat of Sauron. The Firstborn and Second-born had united to face this threat, and had triumphed, yet that was not what weighed most on their hearts.
The High King of the Valar paused at a window and stared out at the golden sky, watching as it slowly darkened to blue, and the silver stars appeared overhead. He sighed and turned to his companion, who waited patiently for his superior to speak.
"Namo my friend, you saw the power of Graelath, just as I did. If he remains unchecked, he will one day destroy Middle-Earth. I have no doubt of this, not since he killed Cellnen."
The other Valar inclined his head in agreement. He was the Dooms-man of the Valar, the Guardian of the Souls, and Keeper of the Houses of the Dead that lay on the edge of the western sea of Valinor. It was he who passed judgment on the souls of those who had lost their lives and came to his halls, at Manwe's orders. Though his given name was Namo, he was best known among the Elves and Men as Mandos, named so for his halls.
Sighing, Mandos looked at his friend. "I know this. It is a pity, for he was once great and powerful, yet we should have foreseen that it would come to this, knowing how Melkor must always undo the things that are great and good in Arda. We must not allow this to happen, we must do something and it must be something drastic I fear." The Keeper raised an eyebrow. "That is, unless Iluvatar has told you that we must not interfere?"
Manwe shook his head. "He has not told me that we must not interfere, and we are the keepers of Arda, as you well know, my friend." This was an important issue, for Manwe was the Valar that was closest to Iluvatar and the one that best understood his thoughts and his will. They dared not interfere if the Great One had decided that Graelath would be the cause of the ending of the world and the beginning of the Second Song.
The two Valar were silent now, each knowing what their only option was. Only one being had ever stood up to the mighty wizard before, but he was dead. He was here, in the Halls of Mandos, the halls of the dead.
Mandos sighed. "Without interfering directly, we have only one choice, my friend. With your permission, I will release Cellnen from my halls and send him back to Middle-Earth."
Manwe eyed his friend. "As you did Beren and Luthien?" he asked. The two lovers had come to the Halls of Mandos, Beren after being slain by the great wolf Carcharoth, and Luthien following him due to a broken spirit. Her voice, more beautiful than any that had ever been heard, had enchanted the Valar and he had offered her a new life. She chose a mortal life with Beren, and the lived together for another forty years before returning to the Halls, where they yet remained, awaiting their time to be released into the Fate that awaited Men.
Mandos shook his head. "Not physically, but he will be reborn into another. Whoever we choose for this task will not have Cellnen's knowledge, but will have his magic, as a skill of the heart, not the mind."
Manwe looked at the other Valar and smiled lightly. "Do you have anyone in mind?"
Mandos nodded. "Yes, I know just the couple he shall be born to," he turned and nodded at the High King, offering a smile of reassurance. "Do not worry any longer, my friend. All will work out in the end."
He moved off now. There were preparations to be made for the reincarnation of Cellnen. It was not an easy task, but one that was not impossible. It just did not happen very often. Mandos knew that timing was crucial. He had to time it so that the renewed Cellnen would be born before it was too late. This new elf must be old enough to assume his destiny by the time that Manwe had foreseen when the Dark Wizard would attempt his rule of Middle-Earth. So he would need a couple who were trying to have a child right this instant. And he knew who was.
Minas Tirith... Two years after the War of the Ring...
"My Lord Elessar?"
The king's eyes rose to meet the gaze of one of the guards. The man was standing in front of the dais, holding a parchment scroll in his hands. The guard bowed once he had Elessar's attention, and offered the scroll. "My Lord, this message just arrived for Her Majesty, tied to the leg of a hawk."
Aragorn nodded, giving the guard permission to approach and give the letter to Arwen, who was seated in her throne at Aragorn's side, while they listened to the petitions of the people. The guard did so, handing the scroll to the Queen, who accepted it graciously.
Arwen studied the seal on the scroll. Aragorn leaned over to see. "Who is it from, meleth nin {my love}?"
Arwen smiled. "It is from Eryn Lasgalen. It is stamped with the seal of the royal family." The Queen broke the seal and unrolled the scroll, her eyes flicking to the signature at the bottom. "It is from Princess Maranwe, Legolas' older sister."
Aragorn smiled. "I remember her. I met her a few times when I was visiting Legolas. I didn't know you knew each other."
Arwen nodded. "She visited Lothlorien once, when I was living there, and we became friends, and after she left we stayed in touch through messages. I've haven't heard from her since before the War though." The Queen glanced back down at the parchment and began to read, her face darkening as she read. Aragorn watched, a frown coming over his own features. When Arwen raised her head and allowed the parchment to fall into her lap, Aragorn leaned over and laid a hand on her arm.
"What does she say, Arwen? Is all well in Eryn Lasgalen?" Aragorn smiled only slightly. It was nice to be able to give the woods of Legolas' home a gentler name than Mirkwood. During the War, the elves had finally been able to drive out the orcs for good, and in the wake of that cleansing, the elves had renamed the forest Eryn Lasgalen. Aragorn brought his mind back to the present as Arwen handed him the parchment.
"Maranwe doesn't seem to think that all is well. She sounds worried. I remember that she had a gift of foresight, but I don't know how strong it is. She inherited it from her mother, I know that much, but I've never actually witnessed it." Arwen replied.
Aragorn frowned and turned his attention to the letter, allowing his eyes to skim over the graceful handwriting of the princess.
To Queen Arwen Undomiel, from Princess Maranwe Thranduliel,
Greetings, mellon nin, and congratulations on your marriage and coronation. Legolas told me all about the ceremony. I am so happy for you, I know how long you've been waiting for this, and I couldn't be more than thrilled. I wish I could have attended, but with all the changes here, I couldn't get permission from my father to come.
My friend, I write to you now for more reasons than just extending my congratulations. For the past two years, since the end of the War, things have never been better. Our forest is finally showing its true beauty and throwing off the shadow that has so long held sway here. Eryn Lasgalen has truly become a beautiful place, and I am told, more beautiful than it was when it was known as Greenwood, though I do not remember those times.
However, I have a secret fear that this is all about to change, though I have not dared to speak of my fear to anyone. Things have been almost too perfect, and my heart is troubled. I know that I have told you of my foresight before now, and how much confidence I had that you and Estel would eventually be wed, and I know that that has brought you comfort in the past.
Well, recently I have had another vision, of Eryn Lasgalen in flames and my people, our people, destroyed. This vision came not two weeks ago. Since then I have felt a shadow growing on my heart and in my mind. I can feel that something terrible is going to happen soon.
Legolas arrived from Ithilien two days ago, to visit with our father and to discuss what he is doing in Ithilien. That same night, I had a second vision of an attack on the city, but again I did not dare to say anything to my father, for I have no proof, and he is not one to readily accept foresight as viable evidence.
Legolas' homecoming seems to have triggered the events that I fear. Eryn Lasgalen has completely thrown off the shadow of Dol Guldur in the last two years, but now a new shadow seems to be descending on us, yet no one but I seem to have noticed it. I have watched my people, and they are beginning to become too concerned with food, drink, and festivals, more than usual, though the summer is our regular time for feasting. Even I have found it difficult to concentrate enough to send this letter to you, but the warning in my heart grows stronger with each passing moment.
In the wake of these visions, and this new shadow, I felt that I had no other option left to me but this. Though I am going over my father's head, I feel that this message was a necessity. I am sending this letter to you in hopes that you will show it to Estel, and mayhap he will be able to help us. I have also sent messages to your father in Rivendell, and Lady Galadriel in Lothlorien, though I do not know if they will take me seriously.
Arwen, I have a horrible feeling that you and Estel are the only hope that Eryn Lasgalen still has, though my people do not know it. Please, my friend. If you can think of any way to convince Estel to send us the help that we need, I know that I at least will appreciate it, even if I must endure my father's wrath for taking matters into my own hands, though that seems to be a small price to pay for the survival of my people. We are not as strong as we once were, as so many of us have sailed into the West. I await your reply, and hopefully your aid. Come quickly, my friend, or what I fear may indeed come to pass.
-Princess Maranwe Thranduliel
Aragorn frowned and rolled up the scroll, thinking. "That doesn't sound good at all. Arwen, could Maranwe be right? I do not know her well enough to judge the validity of what she says."
Arwen looked thoughtful. "I believe so. Maranwe is one of the most level- headed people that I have ever met. She is not one to get this worried without good reason, and I have never yet known her foresight to be wrong, though she has not told me everything."
Aragorn sighed. "There has been no reason to fear any attacks or danger since the War, so what evil could possibly still exist that could make Maranwe fear for her people so? The elves of Eryn Lasgalen are still great warriors, and I cannot believe that they would be so easily defeated, or not sense the shadow that Maranwe claims is befalling them. They have lived too long under shadow to not sense its presence."
Arwen nodded, but frowned. "Estel, Maranwe would not undertake the risk of sending me this letter asking for aid rashly. She is very aware that Thranduil would resent her taking matters into her own hands, which makes me believe that this threat is indeed serious."
Aragorn sighed, weighing the options in his mind. Arwen seemed to believe Maranwe, and that was an important factor, but Aragorn simply didn't know enough about the princess to know how serious she was. Thranduil would resent Aragorn bringing an armed force to Eryn Lasgalen, and Aragorn could not afford to annoy the elven king, who might prove a valuable ally later.
"I don't know about this Undomiel. I know that she is your friend, but I can't see any reason that would justify bringing an armed force into Eryn Lasgalen, and possibly irritating Thranduil." Aragorn finally replied, wondering if Arwen would be angry at him.
Arwen, however, surprised him. "I see that, Estel, but Maranwe isn't asking for an army, just whatever help we can send." The Queen grew thoughtful. "What about disguising our intentions with a state visit? That would give you a chance to speak with Thranduil about whatever aid he could offer us, before my people all sail, I could see Maranwe, since she is my friend, and you would get to see Legolas. A state visit by the King and Queen of Gondor would justify us bringing a small entourage, and that might be all the aid necessary until we can assess the situation and decide if we need to send for more troops."
Aragorn smiled slowly. "I like the way you think, Undomiel."
Arwen laughed lightly, despite the situation. "I learned how to play the political games from watching Ada and my grandparents. They are some of the best diplomats that I've ever seen, and I also learned how to be subtle from El and El. Practical jokes do teach you subtlety, if nothing else."
Aragorn laughed and signaled to Faramir to approach the throne. The Steward did as requested and came up to his King. "Yes, my lord?"
Aragorn smiled. "Faramir, we've received a letter from Eryn Lasgalen, and Arwen and I have decided to make a state visit to King Thranduil. We will go alone, and bring only a small entourage of guards along. Please see to the arrangements while we finish here."
Faramir nodded. "Of course my lord." Bowing, the Steward hurried out of the large hall to oversee the preparations for the journey to Eryn Lasgalen.
As he left, Aragorn then gestured for one of the guards to approach. When the man did, the King ordered him to find Elladan and Elrohir. Arwen's brothers were in Minas Tirith to visit their sister and adopted brother, and Aragorn felt that they needed to know about this sudden decision to visit Eryn Lasgalen, and give them the opportunity to come along if they wished.
It was only a few minutes before the guard returned, with the elven twins in tow. The two identical, dark-haired brothers hurried to the front of the room and their siblings. Elladan, the older of the two, was the first one to speak. "What is going on, Estel? We just passed Faramir in the corridor and he mentioned something about you making a state visit?"
Arwen answered for her husband. "I received a letter from Princess Maranwe, and she has asked us to come, because she believes that there is a threat approaching Eryn Lasgalen." She handed the letter to the twins, who studied it, their faces growing grim as they read.
Elrohir sighed. "Well, if she has sent a similar message to Ada, I can't believe that he wouldn't react to it."
Elladan nodded. "The same with Daernaneth {Grandmother}. However, we can do something for you Estel. We can travel to Rivendell, and inform Ada that you are heading to Eryn Lasgalen, and see what he says, possibly bring a group to support you from Rivendell as well."
Aragorn smiled. "That is a wonderful idea El. Arwen and I wondered if you wanted to come with us, but if we can keep Ada completely informed on the situation, we'll be able to react better if there really is a threat."
Arwen nodded, but frowned. "If you're going, at least take a small group of men with you. I'd feel better, because if there is a threat, we don't know where it is coming from and you don't want to be on the road alone."
Elladan nodded. "All right, sister dear."
Aragorn nodded. "I think I will also send a message to Legolas' people in Ithilien. If we're going to coordinate this, everyone should be involved."
The twins nodded and hurried to prepare for their own trip, while Aragorn stood from his throne and the hall fell into silence. The king announced his and Arwen's intentions to make a state visit, and stated that during their absence, Faramir would be in charge, and court would not be held until their return.
Aragorn dismissed the court for the day, and as the people all stood respectfully, Aragorn took Arwen's arm and escorted her out of the room through the door behind the thrones, towards their own private chambers where they could prepare for the journey.
Meanwhile in Eryn Lasgalen...
"Father? We have received word from Landriel that orcs have crossed the borders of the forest." Legolas had interrupted his father's meal, but the King did not usually mind. For the most part, his son wouldn't bother him with useless information.
Looking up from the plate of cherries and other fruit he was eating, Thranduil sighed. "Well, are they organized? Why would this be of consequence to us?" The elf lord was so used to attacks on his realm by now that he did not want to make any hasty decisions.
His son shrugged. "The messenger said the party was large and well armed. He was worried; perhaps we should increase the border guards just in case."
Thranduil shook his head. "No, I do not feel a threat." That was the end of it. Legolas knew from experience that his father often would not stray from his decision. He felt it kind of odd that his father had dismissed his worries so quickly. It was unlike the elf to do so.
"As you wish, my Lord," Legolas said, turning to leave. His father's voice stopped him.
"You do not agree, ion nin {my son}," Thranduil said, leaning forward. His son rarely contradicted him, but the elder elf could hear something strange in his son's voice. He had been different since the Fellowship, he was bolder. This worried Thranduil for some reason that he could not explain.
Sighing, Legolas conceded despite his feelings that this was a threat. He couldn't lay a finger on why he did not press the matter, but something about being here had made him somewhat apathetic. And he had not grown bold enough to argue with his father yet. "No, I guess my fears are unfounded, there is no hard evidence orcs are coming or are of danger to us."
His father nodded, a small smirk crossing his face. "I am glad you agree with me. You still have a lot to learn about ruling."
Legolas begged to differ, but said nothing. That was odd, he thought to himself. It wasn't like his father to be so cold, something was definitely not quite right here. He pushed the thought from his head. "May I be excused?" Legolas asked, tapping his foot impatiently.
"Go," Thranduil said, somehow feeling satisfied that his son's difference of opinion had been squashed.
Legolas hurried from the room, frustration burning, but tactfully held in. He passed by his friend Galinel, who knew immediately something troubled the prince. "My father will not see reason; he denies that there is reason for worry."
His friend patted his shoulder gently. "Well, perhaps he will have no choice but to see reason," the elf said, oddly apathetic as his father had been.
Legolas shook his head. "I feel great evil, great danger," the prince replied. "I fear that that time will not come."
He hurried away now, frowning as he thought about what had just transpired. Ever since he had arrived in Eryn Lasgalen on this visit, things had seemed strange. The elves walked around aimlessly, unsure of what they were doing or why they were doing it.
Legolas himself had begun to feel a bit odd, but he hadn't become so far gone as to not feel the threat approaching. Why do they not worry? he thought to himself. Stopping in the courtyard, he sat on the ledge of a pool and sighed.
There was definitely something different about the King. His father was wise and Legolas knew it. Thranduil had fought in the Last Alliance, why he did not see these approaching orcs as a danger, the prince could not fathom. Normally, Thranduil would not tolerate orcs passing through the forest at all.
He prayed that his instincts were wrong.
Somewhere deep in the Misty Mountains...
They were easier to control than he had originally thought. The King of Eryn Lasgalen was a bit unwieldy, had to be continually monitored lest he would cast off the shadow of the spell. Other than him, he had control over almost all the elves in Middle-Earth, save the Ringbearers who had not left for the Undying Lands yet.
"My plan is working wonderfully," he said to no one, for no one was in the room. "Soon, the elves will be destroyed and I need only to defeat the world of men to take over Middle-Earth, to complete what my 'master' was unable to do."
Sauron had been defeated at the end of the Third Age. No one had known he had an accomplice, so to speak, besides Saruman. Graelath had been loyal all along, but knew that his master would be defeated. He had fled before the tower had fallen, hiding deep in the Misty Mountains until that time when he would be able to ferment a plan.
The time had come, he was going to wipe out the elves of Middle-Earth and then the men would have no strong ally to fall back on. He chose the elves because they had magic and he did not wish to contend with that.
"You will sit in your cities, controlled by my spell, apathetic to all warnings of threat, merrily going about your business," Graelath smirked. "And then the Uruks and Orcs will destroy your cities, one by one, with almost no resistance."
However, he did not know that there were those who could withstand his spell, those with destinies to fulfill and powers beyond his knowledge. He knew Thranduil was a problem, but knowing that made it less of a problem for he could increase the spell in the elf lord's case. He was unaware, however, that the king's son possessed a power he feared and knew how to use it.
Graelath had easily fooled the Ringbearers into leaving their cities with a fake message from King Thranduil. While they traveled toward Eryn Lasgalen, their cities would be destroyed. Without the power of the Elven rings; Lothlorien and Rivendell would be easily defeated.
Eryn Lasgalen...
"NO!"
Elves lay strewn all over the city's paths, eyes glazed over in death, blood saturating the very ground beneath them. Aragorn ran forward, looking for any signs of life after his initial shock wore off. The Gondor soldiers were quiet, in awe at the unexpected carnage before them.
Aragorn's throat was tight with grief as he hurried from elf to elf, looking for signs of the living. How in the world did this happen? Surely an attack of this magnitude would be seen in advance? What is going on here?
Arwen wept openly, she knew some of these elves; they had been guests in Rivendell. "Estel, Maranwe was right! We are too late, they have been slaughtered. What could have done this? Who could have!" she cried, as she managed to wipe her tears from her eyes and set her jaw.
Aragorn was at a loss. "I do not know what has befallen the Elves, but I fear greatly for the royal family and as much as I wish we could do something for these dead, I think we should press on." He hated to leave the dead elves lying on the forest floor, but he had no choice. They had to make haste to the royal city; he had to know if Legolas and his family were dead or alive.
The Gondor party passed through the dead city, careful not to tread on the elves littering the streets. Arwen murmured an Elven prayer for the dead as they galloped on toward Thranduil's palace.
Aragorn's heart beat rapidly as they neared the palace. No guards came, no life moved. Not a good sign, he thought to himself, scanning the walls that surrounded the palace. His heart jerked in alarm when he saw that the gate was open, for it was never open at night, and it was not yet dawn.
They did not slow until they came to the courtyard at the center of the palace, the same courtyard that Legolas had sat in earlier that day. "We are too late!" Arwen shouted, seeing the first of the dead. "How is it that no one realized this was coming? Even Maranwe was uncertain, it was just a feeling she had? This could not have been a small force!"
Aragorn dismounted, touching one of the elves who lay on the ground. He was warm still. "These are newly dead. Some may still yet be alive, quickly spread out and search but be wary!" he warned. The men immediately moved to follow their King's command; while three others dismounted and fell into step behind the royals.
Arwen and Aragorn ran for the throne room, each knowing exactly where to go thanks to previous visits to the city. Their eyes were met with red. Arwen gasped with a combination of horror and grief, while Aragorn closed his eyes weakly.
Thranduil and Maranwe were splayed out on the throne room floor, looking almost asleep. However, the red pools beneath them told the truth. There was no sign of Legolas.
The king and queen were about to continue their search, thinking the royals were dead and wanting to find Legolas, when Aragorn picked up a barely perceptible movement from the dais. Thranduil had taken breath! Hurrying over to the elf king, Aragorn knelt beside him and reached out to find a pulse. His heart skipped a beat when he found one.
"The King is still alive!" he cried out in surprise and relief. "Thank the heavens they are not all dead!" His voice must have pulled Thranduil from his unconsciousness, for the elf blinked his eyes and they focused on Aragorn.
He struggled to speak, unsure of why he was in such pain. "What happened?" he asked, his voice barely a whisper. "I am hurt?"
Aragorn frowned. He had not expected the king to not know what had happened. He was hoping the elder elf could tell him. "The city was attacked, many are dead. It is the work of the orcs. Surely you knew they were coming."
Thranduil shook his head lightly. "A shadow, I could not break from the shadow."
He said no more, wincing in pain. Aragorn uncovered the chest wound, gasping at the extent of the injury. "I can not heal this on my own, but I can stop the bleeding so we can get you out of here." The orc that had taken Thranduil out had obviously used one of their crude scimitars, and had barely missed the elf's heart, but had managed to nick one of the King's lungs. Aragorn was very surprised that the elf king hadn't drowned in his own blood from a punctured lung before he and Arwen had arrived. The Valar were truly protecting you, hir nin {my lord}. he thought with reverence.
Thranduil nodded in understanding, letting the king do what he had to. While Aragorn worked, Arwen pondered Thranduil's words. A shadow? Didn't Maranwe mention a shadow falling over Eryn Lasgalen? If only her foresight had prompted her to write sooner, we might have arrived earlier.
As Aragorn neared the end of what he could administer, Thranduil let out an enraged cry. He had seen Maranwe, lying behind Arwen, who had been trying to shield her from the king's eyes.
"My daughter, dead!" he cried, tears falling from his eyes, something one rarely saw elves do. Then the eyes cleared. "Aragorn, where is my son?" His outburst caused him to suck in a sharp breath at the pain that pierced his chest.
Aragorn's eyes searched the hall, spotting a pile of orcs, arrows protruding from their bodies, arrows that the former ranger recognized as belonging to Legolas. The green-gold turkey feathers cut into a diamond shape were distinctive to the Elves of Lothlorien, but Legolas had been given a Lothlorien bow and quiver of arrows during the Fellowship's stay in the Golden Woods. "This way!" he shouted, moving to follow the trail of dead toward what he knew to be Legolas' quarters. He left one of his guards, Domir, with the king but stopped short when Thranduil spoke.
"I am coming; help me up. I must see my son. I vaguely recall him warning me of this, I must know if he is dead." The effort of such a long speech had weakened the king, but he struggled to his feet with the help of Domir.
"Very well," Aragorn said, knowing resistance was futile. They reached the door of Legolas' room and found an even larger pile of orcs here. Peering in, Aragorn shouted in anger.
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the Lord of the Rings characters...only the ones I have created (such as Graelath, Lowgala, etc...) All others belong to Mr. Tolkien and company. I am not making any money from this writing, just love to do it!!!
Rating: PG-13 for violence and bloody scenes I guess (and there is torture later)
Spoilers: Well...I guess a small one for Return of the King because it is set after that movie and assumes Aragorn is king. But other then that, I only vaguely reference the movies, if at all.
Timeline: The story is set about two years into Aragorn's reign as King; before Frodo, Elrond, Galadriel, and Gandalf leave for Valinor.
REVIEWS ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED...I don't like flames much (who does!) but if you absolutely MUST flame me...try to be civil at least. Criticize specific points, don't just say, "Your story sucks!"
Special thanks: Go to phoenixqueen for all the help she has given me with this story.
Note: Originally I had this story posted through chapter 20, but I realized that there were several parts that were inconsistent and didn't flow correctly, so I have taken down these chapters and begun a detailed revision, and this is also why the first chapter is not the same as when I originally posted.
Final Note: As it stands now, MOST of the story is finished and the end should be up very soon...I didn't really leave any big cliffy or anything, but I have things to wrap up at the end. PLEASE don't let that deter you from reading!
-Gwenneth
Chapter 1: Vague Warnings
Sometime shortly after the Last Alliance and the cutting of the Ring from Sauron's hand:
The sun was setting over the hidden isle of Valinor. As Anor slowly sank into the sea, the pure orb washed the beautiful paradise in warm shades of golden-orange light. The voices of the Valar and the elves living on the hidden isle rose in song, bidding farewell to the day and welcoming the comforting light of the stars, praising Varda, called Elbereth, for her glorious creation. And yet, there were two voices missing from the song of the Valar, for they were engaged in serious conversation in the halls of Ilmarin, the dwelling of Manwe and Varda.
The two Valar walked slowly through the halls, speaking of recent events in Middle Earth, such as the Last Alliance of Men and Elves, and the defeat of Sauron. The Firstborn and Second-born had united to face this threat, and had triumphed, yet that was not what weighed most on their hearts.
The High King of the Valar paused at a window and stared out at the golden sky, watching as it slowly darkened to blue, and the silver stars appeared overhead. He sighed and turned to his companion, who waited patiently for his superior to speak.
"Namo my friend, you saw the power of Graelath, just as I did. If he remains unchecked, he will one day destroy Middle-Earth. I have no doubt of this, not since he killed Cellnen."
The other Valar inclined his head in agreement. He was the Dooms-man of the Valar, the Guardian of the Souls, and Keeper of the Houses of the Dead that lay on the edge of the western sea of Valinor. It was he who passed judgment on the souls of those who had lost their lives and came to his halls, at Manwe's orders. Though his given name was Namo, he was best known among the Elves and Men as Mandos, named so for his halls.
Sighing, Mandos looked at his friend. "I know this. It is a pity, for he was once great and powerful, yet we should have foreseen that it would come to this, knowing how Melkor must always undo the things that are great and good in Arda. We must not allow this to happen, we must do something and it must be something drastic I fear." The Keeper raised an eyebrow. "That is, unless Iluvatar has told you that we must not interfere?"
Manwe shook his head. "He has not told me that we must not interfere, and we are the keepers of Arda, as you well know, my friend." This was an important issue, for Manwe was the Valar that was closest to Iluvatar and the one that best understood his thoughts and his will. They dared not interfere if the Great One had decided that Graelath would be the cause of the ending of the world and the beginning of the Second Song.
The two Valar were silent now, each knowing what their only option was. Only one being had ever stood up to the mighty wizard before, but he was dead. He was here, in the Halls of Mandos, the halls of the dead.
Mandos sighed. "Without interfering directly, we have only one choice, my friend. With your permission, I will release Cellnen from my halls and send him back to Middle-Earth."
Manwe eyed his friend. "As you did Beren and Luthien?" he asked. The two lovers had come to the Halls of Mandos, Beren after being slain by the great wolf Carcharoth, and Luthien following him due to a broken spirit. Her voice, more beautiful than any that had ever been heard, had enchanted the Valar and he had offered her a new life. She chose a mortal life with Beren, and the lived together for another forty years before returning to the Halls, where they yet remained, awaiting their time to be released into the Fate that awaited Men.
Mandos shook his head. "Not physically, but he will be reborn into another. Whoever we choose for this task will not have Cellnen's knowledge, but will have his magic, as a skill of the heart, not the mind."
Manwe looked at the other Valar and smiled lightly. "Do you have anyone in mind?"
Mandos nodded. "Yes, I know just the couple he shall be born to," he turned and nodded at the High King, offering a smile of reassurance. "Do not worry any longer, my friend. All will work out in the end."
He moved off now. There were preparations to be made for the reincarnation of Cellnen. It was not an easy task, but one that was not impossible. It just did not happen very often. Mandos knew that timing was crucial. He had to time it so that the renewed Cellnen would be born before it was too late. This new elf must be old enough to assume his destiny by the time that Manwe had foreseen when the Dark Wizard would attempt his rule of Middle-Earth. So he would need a couple who were trying to have a child right this instant. And he knew who was.
Minas Tirith... Two years after the War of the Ring...
"My Lord Elessar?"
The king's eyes rose to meet the gaze of one of the guards. The man was standing in front of the dais, holding a parchment scroll in his hands. The guard bowed once he had Elessar's attention, and offered the scroll. "My Lord, this message just arrived for Her Majesty, tied to the leg of a hawk."
Aragorn nodded, giving the guard permission to approach and give the letter to Arwen, who was seated in her throne at Aragorn's side, while they listened to the petitions of the people. The guard did so, handing the scroll to the Queen, who accepted it graciously.
Arwen studied the seal on the scroll. Aragorn leaned over to see. "Who is it from, meleth nin {my love}?"
Arwen smiled. "It is from Eryn Lasgalen. It is stamped with the seal of the royal family." The Queen broke the seal and unrolled the scroll, her eyes flicking to the signature at the bottom. "It is from Princess Maranwe, Legolas' older sister."
Aragorn smiled. "I remember her. I met her a few times when I was visiting Legolas. I didn't know you knew each other."
Arwen nodded. "She visited Lothlorien once, when I was living there, and we became friends, and after she left we stayed in touch through messages. I've haven't heard from her since before the War though." The Queen glanced back down at the parchment and began to read, her face darkening as she read. Aragorn watched, a frown coming over his own features. When Arwen raised her head and allowed the parchment to fall into her lap, Aragorn leaned over and laid a hand on her arm.
"What does she say, Arwen? Is all well in Eryn Lasgalen?" Aragorn smiled only slightly. It was nice to be able to give the woods of Legolas' home a gentler name than Mirkwood. During the War, the elves had finally been able to drive out the orcs for good, and in the wake of that cleansing, the elves had renamed the forest Eryn Lasgalen. Aragorn brought his mind back to the present as Arwen handed him the parchment.
"Maranwe doesn't seem to think that all is well. She sounds worried. I remember that she had a gift of foresight, but I don't know how strong it is. She inherited it from her mother, I know that much, but I've never actually witnessed it." Arwen replied.
Aragorn frowned and turned his attention to the letter, allowing his eyes to skim over the graceful handwriting of the princess.
To Queen Arwen Undomiel, from Princess Maranwe Thranduliel,
Greetings, mellon nin, and congratulations on your marriage and coronation. Legolas told me all about the ceremony. I am so happy for you, I know how long you've been waiting for this, and I couldn't be more than thrilled. I wish I could have attended, but with all the changes here, I couldn't get permission from my father to come.
My friend, I write to you now for more reasons than just extending my congratulations. For the past two years, since the end of the War, things have never been better. Our forest is finally showing its true beauty and throwing off the shadow that has so long held sway here. Eryn Lasgalen has truly become a beautiful place, and I am told, more beautiful than it was when it was known as Greenwood, though I do not remember those times.
However, I have a secret fear that this is all about to change, though I have not dared to speak of my fear to anyone. Things have been almost too perfect, and my heart is troubled. I know that I have told you of my foresight before now, and how much confidence I had that you and Estel would eventually be wed, and I know that that has brought you comfort in the past.
Well, recently I have had another vision, of Eryn Lasgalen in flames and my people, our people, destroyed. This vision came not two weeks ago. Since then I have felt a shadow growing on my heart and in my mind. I can feel that something terrible is going to happen soon.
Legolas arrived from Ithilien two days ago, to visit with our father and to discuss what he is doing in Ithilien. That same night, I had a second vision of an attack on the city, but again I did not dare to say anything to my father, for I have no proof, and he is not one to readily accept foresight as viable evidence.
Legolas' homecoming seems to have triggered the events that I fear. Eryn Lasgalen has completely thrown off the shadow of Dol Guldur in the last two years, but now a new shadow seems to be descending on us, yet no one but I seem to have noticed it. I have watched my people, and they are beginning to become too concerned with food, drink, and festivals, more than usual, though the summer is our regular time for feasting. Even I have found it difficult to concentrate enough to send this letter to you, but the warning in my heart grows stronger with each passing moment.
In the wake of these visions, and this new shadow, I felt that I had no other option left to me but this. Though I am going over my father's head, I feel that this message was a necessity. I am sending this letter to you in hopes that you will show it to Estel, and mayhap he will be able to help us. I have also sent messages to your father in Rivendell, and Lady Galadriel in Lothlorien, though I do not know if they will take me seriously.
Arwen, I have a horrible feeling that you and Estel are the only hope that Eryn Lasgalen still has, though my people do not know it. Please, my friend. If you can think of any way to convince Estel to send us the help that we need, I know that I at least will appreciate it, even if I must endure my father's wrath for taking matters into my own hands, though that seems to be a small price to pay for the survival of my people. We are not as strong as we once were, as so many of us have sailed into the West. I await your reply, and hopefully your aid. Come quickly, my friend, or what I fear may indeed come to pass.
-Princess Maranwe Thranduliel
Aragorn frowned and rolled up the scroll, thinking. "That doesn't sound good at all. Arwen, could Maranwe be right? I do not know her well enough to judge the validity of what she says."
Arwen looked thoughtful. "I believe so. Maranwe is one of the most level- headed people that I have ever met. She is not one to get this worried without good reason, and I have never yet known her foresight to be wrong, though she has not told me everything."
Aragorn sighed. "There has been no reason to fear any attacks or danger since the War, so what evil could possibly still exist that could make Maranwe fear for her people so? The elves of Eryn Lasgalen are still great warriors, and I cannot believe that they would be so easily defeated, or not sense the shadow that Maranwe claims is befalling them. They have lived too long under shadow to not sense its presence."
Arwen nodded, but frowned. "Estel, Maranwe would not undertake the risk of sending me this letter asking for aid rashly. She is very aware that Thranduil would resent her taking matters into her own hands, which makes me believe that this threat is indeed serious."
Aragorn sighed, weighing the options in his mind. Arwen seemed to believe Maranwe, and that was an important factor, but Aragorn simply didn't know enough about the princess to know how serious she was. Thranduil would resent Aragorn bringing an armed force to Eryn Lasgalen, and Aragorn could not afford to annoy the elven king, who might prove a valuable ally later.
"I don't know about this Undomiel. I know that she is your friend, but I can't see any reason that would justify bringing an armed force into Eryn Lasgalen, and possibly irritating Thranduil." Aragorn finally replied, wondering if Arwen would be angry at him.
Arwen, however, surprised him. "I see that, Estel, but Maranwe isn't asking for an army, just whatever help we can send." The Queen grew thoughtful. "What about disguising our intentions with a state visit? That would give you a chance to speak with Thranduil about whatever aid he could offer us, before my people all sail, I could see Maranwe, since she is my friend, and you would get to see Legolas. A state visit by the King and Queen of Gondor would justify us bringing a small entourage, and that might be all the aid necessary until we can assess the situation and decide if we need to send for more troops."
Aragorn smiled slowly. "I like the way you think, Undomiel."
Arwen laughed lightly, despite the situation. "I learned how to play the political games from watching Ada and my grandparents. They are some of the best diplomats that I've ever seen, and I also learned how to be subtle from El and El. Practical jokes do teach you subtlety, if nothing else."
Aragorn laughed and signaled to Faramir to approach the throne. The Steward did as requested and came up to his King. "Yes, my lord?"
Aragorn smiled. "Faramir, we've received a letter from Eryn Lasgalen, and Arwen and I have decided to make a state visit to King Thranduil. We will go alone, and bring only a small entourage of guards along. Please see to the arrangements while we finish here."
Faramir nodded. "Of course my lord." Bowing, the Steward hurried out of the large hall to oversee the preparations for the journey to Eryn Lasgalen.
As he left, Aragorn then gestured for one of the guards to approach. When the man did, the King ordered him to find Elladan and Elrohir. Arwen's brothers were in Minas Tirith to visit their sister and adopted brother, and Aragorn felt that they needed to know about this sudden decision to visit Eryn Lasgalen, and give them the opportunity to come along if they wished.
It was only a few minutes before the guard returned, with the elven twins in tow. The two identical, dark-haired brothers hurried to the front of the room and their siblings. Elladan, the older of the two, was the first one to speak. "What is going on, Estel? We just passed Faramir in the corridor and he mentioned something about you making a state visit?"
Arwen answered for her husband. "I received a letter from Princess Maranwe, and she has asked us to come, because she believes that there is a threat approaching Eryn Lasgalen." She handed the letter to the twins, who studied it, their faces growing grim as they read.
Elrohir sighed. "Well, if she has sent a similar message to Ada, I can't believe that he wouldn't react to it."
Elladan nodded. "The same with Daernaneth {Grandmother}. However, we can do something for you Estel. We can travel to Rivendell, and inform Ada that you are heading to Eryn Lasgalen, and see what he says, possibly bring a group to support you from Rivendell as well."
Aragorn smiled. "That is a wonderful idea El. Arwen and I wondered if you wanted to come with us, but if we can keep Ada completely informed on the situation, we'll be able to react better if there really is a threat."
Arwen nodded, but frowned. "If you're going, at least take a small group of men with you. I'd feel better, because if there is a threat, we don't know where it is coming from and you don't want to be on the road alone."
Elladan nodded. "All right, sister dear."
Aragorn nodded. "I think I will also send a message to Legolas' people in Ithilien. If we're going to coordinate this, everyone should be involved."
The twins nodded and hurried to prepare for their own trip, while Aragorn stood from his throne and the hall fell into silence. The king announced his and Arwen's intentions to make a state visit, and stated that during their absence, Faramir would be in charge, and court would not be held until their return.
Aragorn dismissed the court for the day, and as the people all stood respectfully, Aragorn took Arwen's arm and escorted her out of the room through the door behind the thrones, towards their own private chambers where they could prepare for the journey.
Meanwhile in Eryn Lasgalen...
"Father? We have received word from Landriel that orcs have crossed the borders of the forest." Legolas had interrupted his father's meal, but the King did not usually mind. For the most part, his son wouldn't bother him with useless information.
Looking up from the plate of cherries and other fruit he was eating, Thranduil sighed. "Well, are they organized? Why would this be of consequence to us?" The elf lord was so used to attacks on his realm by now that he did not want to make any hasty decisions.
His son shrugged. "The messenger said the party was large and well armed. He was worried; perhaps we should increase the border guards just in case."
Thranduil shook his head. "No, I do not feel a threat." That was the end of it. Legolas knew from experience that his father often would not stray from his decision. He felt it kind of odd that his father had dismissed his worries so quickly. It was unlike the elf to do so.
"As you wish, my Lord," Legolas said, turning to leave. His father's voice stopped him.
"You do not agree, ion nin {my son}," Thranduil said, leaning forward. His son rarely contradicted him, but the elder elf could hear something strange in his son's voice. He had been different since the Fellowship, he was bolder. This worried Thranduil for some reason that he could not explain.
Sighing, Legolas conceded despite his feelings that this was a threat. He couldn't lay a finger on why he did not press the matter, but something about being here had made him somewhat apathetic. And he had not grown bold enough to argue with his father yet. "No, I guess my fears are unfounded, there is no hard evidence orcs are coming or are of danger to us."
His father nodded, a small smirk crossing his face. "I am glad you agree with me. You still have a lot to learn about ruling."
Legolas begged to differ, but said nothing. That was odd, he thought to himself. It wasn't like his father to be so cold, something was definitely not quite right here. He pushed the thought from his head. "May I be excused?" Legolas asked, tapping his foot impatiently.
"Go," Thranduil said, somehow feeling satisfied that his son's difference of opinion had been squashed.
Legolas hurried from the room, frustration burning, but tactfully held in. He passed by his friend Galinel, who knew immediately something troubled the prince. "My father will not see reason; he denies that there is reason for worry."
His friend patted his shoulder gently. "Well, perhaps he will have no choice but to see reason," the elf said, oddly apathetic as his father had been.
Legolas shook his head. "I feel great evil, great danger," the prince replied. "I fear that that time will not come."
He hurried away now, frowning as he thought about what had just transpired. Ever since he had arrived in Eryn Lasgalen on this visit, things had seemed strange. The elves walked around aimlessly, unsure of what they were doing or why they were doing it.
Legolas himself had begun to feel a bit odd, but he hadn't become so far gone as to not feel the threat approaching. Why do they not worry? he thought to himself. Stopping in the courtyard, he sat on the ledge of a pool and sighed.
There was definitely something different about the King. His father was wise and Legolas knew it. Thranduil had fought in the Last Alliance, why he did not see these approaching orcs as a danger, the prince could not fathom. Normally, Thranduil would not tolerate orcs passing through the forest at all.
He prayed that his instincts were wrong.
Somewhere deep in the Misty Mountains...
They were easier to control than he had originally thought. The King of Eryn Lasgalen was a bit unwieldy, had to be continually monitored lest he would cast off the shadow of the spell. Other than him, he had control over almost all the elves in Middle-Earth, save the Ringbearers who had not left for the Undying Lands yet.
"My plan is working wonderfully," he said to no one, for no one was in the room. "Soon, the elves will be destroyed and I need only to defeat the world of men to take over Middle-Earth, to complete what my 'master' was unable to do."
Sauron had been defeated at the end of the Third Age. No one had known he had an accomplice, so to speak, besides Saruman. Graelath had been loyal all along, but knew that his master would be defeated. He had fled before the tower had fallen, hiding deep in the Misty Mountains until that time when he would be able to ferment a plan.
The time had come, he was going to wipe out the elves of Middle-Earth and then the men would have no strong ally to fall back on. He chose the elves because they had magic and he did not wish to contend with that.
"You will sit in your cities, controlled by my spell, apathetic to all warnings of threat, merrily going about your business," Graelath smirked. "And then the Uruks and Orcs will destroy your cities, one by one, with almost no resistance."
However, he did not know that there were those who could withstand his spell, those with destinies to fulfill and powers beyond his knowledge. He knew Thranduil was a problem, but knowing that made it less of a problem for he could increase the spell in the elf lord's case. He was unaware, however, that the king's son possessed a power he feared and knew how to use it.
Graelath had easily fooled the Ringbearers into leaving their cities with a fake message from King Thranduil. While they traveled toward Eryn Lasgalen, their cities would be destroyed. Without the power of the Elven rings; Lothlorien and Rivendell would be easily defeated.
Eryn Lasgalen...
"NO!"
Elves lay strewn all over the city's paths, eyes glazed over in death, blood saturating the very ground beneath them. Aragorn ran forward, looking for any signs of life after his initial shock wore off. The Gondor soldiers were quiet, in awe at the unexpected carnage before them.
Aragorn's throat was tight with grief as he hurried from elf to elf, looking for signs of the living. How in the world did this happen? Surely an attack of this magnitude would be seen in advance? What is going on here?
Arwen wept openly, she knew some of these elves; they had been guests in Rivendell. "Estel, Maranwe was right! We are too late, they have been slaughtered. What could have done this? Who could have!" she cried, as she managed to wipe her tears from her eyes and set her jaw.
Aragorn was at a loss. "I do not know what has befallen the Elves, but I fear greatly for the royal family and as much as I wish we could do something for these dead, I think we should press on." He hated to leave the dead elves lying on the forest floor, but he had no choice. They had to make haste to the royal city; he had to know if Legolas and his family were dead or alive.
The Gondor party passed through the dead city, careful not to tread on the elves littering the streets. Arwen murmured an Elven prayer for the dead as they galloped on toward Thranduil's palace.
Aragorn's heart beat rapidly as they neared the palace. No guards came, no life moved. Not a good sign, he thought to himself, scanning the walls that surrounded the palace. His heart jerked in alarm when he saw that the gate was open, for it was never open at night, and it was not yet dawn.
They did not slow until they came to the courtyard at the center of the palace, the same courtyard that Legolas had sat in earlier that day. "We are too late!" Arwen shouted, seeing the first of the dead. "How is it that no one realized this was coming? Even Maranwe was uncertain, it was just a feeling she had? This could not have been a small force!"
Aragorn dismounted, touching one of the elves who lay on the ground. He was warm still. "These are newly dead. Some may still yet be alive, quickly spread out and search but be wary!" he warned. The men immediately moved to follow their King's command; while three others dismounted and fell into step behind the royals.
Arwen and Aragorn ran for the throne room, each knowing exactly where to go thanks to previous visits to the city. Their eyes were met with red. Arwen gasped with a combination of horror and grief, while Aragorn closed his eyes weakly.
Thranduil and Maranwe were splayed out on the throne room floor, looking almost asleep. However, the red pools beneath them told the truth. There was no sign of Legolas.
The king and queen were about to continue their search, thinking the royals were dead and wanting to find Legolas, when Aragorn picked up a barely perceptible movement from the dais. Thranduil had taken breath! Hurrying over to the elf king, Aragorn knelt beside him and reached out to find a pulse. His heart skipped a beat when he found one.
"The King is still alive!" he cried out in surprise and relief. "Thank the heavens they are not all dead!" His voice must have pulled Thranduil from his unconsciousness, for the elf blinked his eyes and they focused on Aragorn.
He struggled to speak, unsure of why he was in such pain. "What happened?" he asked, his voice barely a whisper. "I am hurt?"
Aragorn frowned. He had not expected the king to not know what had happened. He was hoping the elder elf could tell him. "The city was attacked, many are dead. It is the work of the orcs. Surely you knew they were coming."
Thranduil shook his head lightly. "A shadow, I could not break from the shadow."
He said no more, wincing in pain. Aragorn uncovered the chest wound, gasping at the extent of the injury. "I can not heal this on my own, but I can stop the bleeding so we can get you out of here." The orc that had taken Thranduil out had obviously used one of their crude scimitars, and had barely missed the elf's heart, but had managed to nick one of the King's lungs. Aragorn was very surprised that the elf king hadn't drowned in his own blood from a punctured lung before he and Arwen had arrived. The Valar were truly protecting you, hir nin {my lord}. he thought with reverence.
Thranduil nodded in understanding, letting the king do what he had to. While Aragorn worked, Arwen pondered Thranduil's words. A shadow? Didn't Maranwe mention a shadow falling over Eryn Lasgalen? If only her foresight had prompted her to write sooner, we might have arrived earlier.
As Aragorn neared the end of what he could administer, Thranduil let out an enraged cry. He had seen Maranwe, lying behind Arwen, who had been trying to shield her from the king's eyes.
"My daughter, dead!" he cried, tears falling from his eyes, something one rarely saw elves do. Then the eyes cleared. "Aragorn, where is my son?" His outburst caused him to suck in a sharp breath at the pain that pierced his chest.
Aragorn's eyes searched the hall, spotting a pile of orcs, arrows protruding from their bodies, arrows that the former ranger recognized as belonging to Legolas. The green-gold turkey feathers cut into a diamond shape were distinctive to the Elves of Lothlorien, but Legolas had been given a Lothlorien bow and quiver of arrows during the Fellowship's stay in the Golden Woods. "This way!" he shouted, moving to follow the trail of dead toward what he knew to be Legolas' quarters. He left one of his guards, Domir, with the king but stopped short when Thranduil spoke.
"I am coming; help me up. I must see my son. I vaguely recall him warning me of this, I must know if he is dead." The effort of such a long speech had weakened the king, but he struggled to his feet with the help of Domir.
"Very well," Aragorn said, knowing resistance was futile. They reached the door of Legolas' room and found an even larger pile of orcs here. Peering in, Aragorn shouted in anger.