Adult-FanFiction.org : Lord of the Rings

Love's Redemption	By : mthorsta Category: -Multi-Age > Het - Male/Female Views: 7108 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: I do not own the Lord of the Rings (and associated) book series, nor any of the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 22
- 23
- 24
Dear readers: Hello! It has been a long time, hasn�t it? Forgive me for my long absence. I�m sure some of you were thinking I had either abandoned the story or it had just come to a strange, abrupt end, but I assure you neither are the case. In writing the last four chapters, I have always had excess material to be carried over into the next chapter giving me a head start, but in chapter 20, I used up everything I had ever written. I had to start from scratch, and as I stared at the blank page, nothing would come�for weeks and weeks. I had ideas but I just couldn�t find a way to convey them. I felt like somehow I had missed the mark with chapter 20. It wasn�t as well received as I had hoped and my confidence was shaken. Night after night of sitting at my computer only getting a few sentences at a time, it became drudgery. It wasn�t fun anymore. I had to move on to other things, because I just wasn�t getting anywhere. I started playing piano again; I made a Lord of the Rings music video, but I always came back to the story. Little by little, it began to take shape but I still wasn�t making any significant progress. I wanted to write, it has become a passion of mine, so I started writing a different story�one that involves Murtagh, the character from Eragon. It is much more dark and sinister story than Love�s Redemption, which I suppose was fitting at the time. I am still not sure if it is something that I am going to start posting or not, but at least I was writing again. I finally realized with Love�s Redemption, that I was trying too hard. I was so worried that it would be a repeat of chapter 20, that somehow I had lost my ability to convey the story, so I agonized over every word, the tone of the character�s dialog, their motivation, everything. I finally just let go and wrote. I have always known my story would be a trilogy and it seemed as though Loves� Redemption had come to a conclusion of sorts. It is well over novel length, so I decided that this would be the point at which I start the second book, Love�s Awakening. The trilogy itself I have named Love�s Journey. If you go to the website, you will notice there are now two linking books on the table. I haven�t decided upon a look for the Love�s Awakening page, so it�s a little lacking. I am still working a new look for the entire website, which will take some time. For now, I am not going to post it as a separate story on FF, because there are so many who are on the list for email notification and I don�t want to lose any readers. If at some point I decide to, I will give you fair warning. I want to thank everyone who has come along with me on this journey and for sticking with it and a big thank you to all who have encouraged me and left comments and feedback. Your reviews and comments are what keep me going! So without further ado, here is the first chapter of Love�s Awakening...
LOVE�S AWAKENING
LOVE�S JOURNEY TRILOGY

BOOK TWO
Chapter 1 � Old Friends and New Beginnings

Minas Tirith

Mid September, year four of the Fourth Age
   �It is late, my love. You should get some sleep.�

   �I know.� Jordan said with a sigh. It was difficult allowing their wondrous evening come to an end but she knew sleep would soon claim her right there on his lap. �Just a few more minutes?�

   Legolas smiled. �Alright then. Will you hand me my wine, please?�

   Jordan leaned over, straining to reach the small side table while Legolas held her by the waist.

   �Can you reach it?�

   �Yep.� She said with a grunt.

   She handed Legolas his goblet, then took hers as well.

   �To us.� She said holding her goblet up and Legolas tapped his against it.

   �To our love.� He added.

   She smiled at his words and Legolas was suddenly struck by the realization of how rarely he had seen her smile these past few months and how beautiful she was when she did so. It filled him with satisfaction to know he was partly the cause, and he cherished the gesture like a gift.

   �It is nice to see you smile again.�
   Jordan settled back into Legolas� arms and in the shelter of the quiet darkness, they sipped their wine contently. When their goblets were empty, Legolas smiled and patted her thigh. �Up. I will come tuck you in.�

   Reluctantly, Jordan swung her legs around and stood up. Legolas took her hand and together they walked into her quarters. Jordan wrapped her arms around him and stood on her tiptoes trying to match his height. She brushed her lips against his, kissing him softly.

   �I need to go change, I�ll be right back.� She murmured against Legolas� lips.

   �Of course, my love.�

   While Jordan retreated to the bathing chamber to change into her sleeping gown, Legolas went around her quarters blowing out all of the candles save the one on the nightstand, and then turned down the coverlet for her.
   When she emerged from the bathing chamber, Legolas was waiting for her beside the bed. The soft glow of the candlelight illuminated his features and glinted off his golden hair giving him an almost angelic appearance. She suddenly felt self-conscious about her own appearance dressed in a rather unflattering garment that resembled something worn in the prudish Victorian era. It was the way he looked at her, however, that erased any doubts and made her feel like the most beautiful woman in the world.
   After she was situated in bed, he pulled the covers over her and sat down on the edge.

   �I will wake you in the morning for breakfast.� Legolas said.

   �Okay.�

   He looked down at her with a sigh and caressed her cheek with the palm of his hand. There was that smile again.

   �O what dreams may come when sleep finds us, but lovers, fear not the night as love does for sweet dreams make and carries us on hastened wings unto the dawn.�

   As she looked up at him, it was still so surreal that this beautiful being could love her. He was an enigma; a walking contradiction�beautiful but deadly, slender and tall but incredibly powerful, a warrior and a poet, but above all else, an immortal Elf bound to love a mortal woman. It scared her, the intensity in which she loved him back. This was so different from the way she had loved Christian. It was love in its purest form, coursing through her with the force of a spring river after winter�s thaw, allowing her to feel, to live, and igniting her soul. Now that she had experienced it, it was hard to believe how she ever could have denied herself this joy.

   �I love you, Legolas.�

   �And I love you. Goodnight.�

   �Goodnight.�

   He gave her one last kiss, blew out the candle beside the bed, and slipped out of her quarters to his own, smiling to himself in the darkness.
~~~~~
   �Jordan��

   Jordan heard a voice coming from somewhere. She rolled over with a groan, eyes still closed, straining to reach the nightstand. Another little shove and she touched the top of it, groping for the alarm clock to hit the snooze button.

   �What are you looking for, my sweet? Can I get it for you?�

   Jordan�s eyes flew open and she flipped over to see Legolas sitting on the edge of the bed.

   �Oh! Um...nothing. Old habits you know.� She shook the fuzziness of sleep from her mind and smiled sheepishly. �Good morning.�

   �Good morning. I am sorry, I did not mean to startle you, but it is time to rise or we will miss breakfast.�

   She stretched out languidly and yawned.

   �Okay.�

   She took his hand and intertwined her fingers with his, taking the time to study his long, slender fingers before bringing them to her lips to kiss. �Did you sleep well?�

   He leaned over her and kissed her forehead. �Aye. The most restful sleep I have had in years.�

   �Good.� She said. �Okay. I�ll get up.�

   She walked over to the wardrobe, took her favorite gown off the hanger, and padded off to the bathing chamber to change and wash up. Legolas watched her with fascination as she disappeared into the bathing chamber wondering what it would be like to share a home with her, when they would not have to be so reticent in manner, where they could wake up side-by-side instead of sleeping in separate quarters. The time would come; he just needed to be patient. He had waited over two-thousand years for her; he could wait a little longer.
   �Alright, I�m almost ready. I just have to brush my hair.� She said, sitting down at the vanity table. Legolas came up behind her and swept her hair back behind her shoulders.

   �May I?� He asked, holding out his hand.

   �Sure, if you want.� She answered handing him the brush.

   Before he began, he gathered up her hair, held it to the side, and placed kisses slowly up the back of her neck, his lips brushing against her skin with the lightest feather touch. Then he moved to her earlobe, gently nipping at it with his teeth. Goosebumps broke out all over her skin, causing an involuntary shiver. Legolas smiled to himself, feeling empowered once more by the reaction his touch elicited. Taking the brush, he picked up one section of her hair at a time, expertly working out any tangles, then made long sweeping strokes from the roots to the tips, smoothing it over with his hand after each pass.

   �So, where are we eating breakfast?� Jordan asked as he brushed.

   Legolas raised an eyebrow, looking at her through the mirror. �Why, the Hall of Feasts of course. Where else?�

   �Oh. I don�t know. I�ve never eaten breakfast there before.�

   Legolas gave a short laugh. �Well, what have you done this entire time? Gone without?�

   �Eowyn and I always ate either in her room or at this tea house a couple levels down,� then she thought for a moment, �oh...probably because I slept in too long.�

   �Hmm. Indeed.� He smiled. �There.� He remarked, handing the brush back to her. �I would braid it for you, but we do not have the time.�

   �That�s okay. Thank you, Legolas.� She said. She stood up and gave him a token of her appreciation in the form of a kiss.
   Just as they were about to head towards the door, they heard someone knocking but not on the door to Jordan�s quarters. It sounded further down the corridor�Legolas� quarters. Legolas unbolted and opened the door and together, he and Jordan stepped out into the corridor to see Faramir and Eowyn.

   �There you are.� Faramir said.

   Legolas grinned. �Good morning Faramir, Eowyn.� He said with a nod of his head.

   �Good morning.� Jordan said as well.

   �Lead the way.� Faramir said jovially, sweeping his arm out. Legolas took hold of Jordan�s hand and the two proceeded down the corridor. When they passed by, Faramir and Eowyn turned to each other and smirked before falling in step behind them.
   Faramir and Eowyn observed the new couple�s interaction as they made their way to the Hall of Feasts and marveled at the transformation that had occurred in them. It was like seeing two completely different people. All traces of the sorrow and anguish that overshadowed them were gone. They walked arm-in-arm talking and laughing, completely at ease with one another and it was plain to see for any and all who looked upon them how in love they were.
~~~~~
   The Hall of Feasts was filled with the buzz of quiet conversation and the inviting smells of wood smoke and fresh bread. In the center of the expansive main room stood a long table laid out with an overabundance of food, quite a bit more than was necessary for the few people in attendance. After perusing the offerings and filling their plates, the four sat down at a far, secluded table. Legolas and Jordan largely ignored their companions as they took to hand feeding each other slices of fruit, kissing in between bites. Normally, such a display of affection would have been a bit awkward, but their enthusiasm for each other was infectious. Eowyn and Faramir could not help but be reminded of themselves after Eowyn was finally able to let go of the past and open her heart to Faramir. Faramir, especially, gained a small measure of satisfaction in knowing the events he set in motion had not all been in vain.
   It took Faramir clearing his throat a few times and staring in Legolas� direction before he could get the Elf�s full attention.
Legolas finally turned his head to look across the table at Faramir, his eyes glazed over with passion, as a smile slowly spread across his face. �Oh, forgive me Faramir. You were saying?� He drawled lazily.

   �I have not said anything yet.�

   The corners of Jordan�s mouth curled up in a self-conscious smirk. She had become so lost in Legolas that she completely forgot they were not alone.

   �Now that I have your attention, is it still the plan to return to Emyn Arnen tomorrow?�

   �Yes. I see no reason to stay on any further.�

   �We�re leaving?� Jordan asked, surprised and somewhat dismayed. �Why didn�t you tell me, Legolas?�

   �I am sorry, my love. I did not have the chance. You do not wish to return?�

   �Well, yes, it�s just so sudden. We�ve been here for so long, I guess I�m just used to it.�

   �I, for one, will be glad to get back to my own bed.� Eowyn said.

   �Agreed.� Faramir added.
   Soon after, Eomer approached the table, plate in hand, and sat down next to Eowyn.

   �What have I missed?� He glanced across the table at Legolas and Jordan. Having already finished their breakfast, Jordan was resting her head on Legolas� shoulder. �Much, it appears.� He said with a grin.

   �Will you be returning home tomorrow, Eomer?� Eowyn asked.

   The smile faded from his face and he hesitated to speak. �Ah...no. I will be going on to Dol Amroth. Prince Imrahil has extended an offer for a visit and I have accepted.�

   �A visit to Dol Amroth? You spent nearly a week in deliberations with Imrahil and this did not fulfill your need for his company? I did not think you two were such good friends.�

   �Can a man not take a holiday?�

   Well, it wasn�t exactly a holiday. The truth of the matter was he was going to Dol Amroth to court Lothiriel, the daughter of Prince Imrahil. The two first met at Aragorn�s coronation and subsequent wedding celebration in Minas Tirith and then again in Rohan when she accompanied her father for King Theoden�s burial. In both instances, Eomer�s duties kept them largely apart save for a few stolen moments away from prying eyes�hardly enough time to get to know one another properly. Despite this, it seemed to Eomer in the time that he spent with her that he had known her his whole life. It was like coming home.

   �A holiday? Now?�

   �Yes, now...before the winter arrives.�

   �Well, if it is a holiday you seek, you certainly have chosen a strange destination. You hate the sea.� Eowyn pointed out.

   �Then I will be sure to stay well on land.� Eomer shrugged and began to eat his breakfast.
   �Eomer, how could you hate the sea? Walking barefoot on the sand, the sound of the waves crashing, I love it. It�s so relaxing!� Jordan could not help but interject.

   �You apparently have not been to Dol Amroth!� Eomer said with a laugh, looking up from his breakfast. �Prone to frequent storms, it sits high atop of a seawall and the surrounding coastline is naught but jagged rocks.�

   �Well, it does not sound like a very inviting place but it still does not explain why you do not like the sea.�

   �He nearly drowned in it.� Eowyn answered for him.

   �Oh my goodness! What happened?�

   �Well you see, shortly after our mother passed on, my uncle sent us to stay with a distant cousin and his wife for the summer...� Eowyn began.

   �Eowyn!� Eomer growled.

   �What?�

   �That is all anyone need know. Let the past remain in the past. Do not bore our companions with silly childhood tales.�

   �She asked! It would be ill-mannered of me not to answer.�

   �It would not bore me.� Jordan said with a grin.

   Eomer looked to Faramir for support.

   �I have already heard the story.� Faramir admitted.

   �Legolas?� Eomer implored.

   Legolas simply shrugged his shoulders.

   �You see?� Eowyn said.

   Eomer sighed resignedly and resumed eating his breakfast.

   �They lived in Dol Amroth, the very city we were just discussing. We were only children at the time. We were playing amongst the rocks beside the pier with some of the local children. Eomer had been trying to play leader all day, as usual, telling everyone what to do.�

Eomer looked up from his plate. �What do you mean �as usual�? I did no such thing!� He huffed.

�Yes you did! You were insufferable! Even at home, you were a bully. When we played Dragon Slayer, you always had to be the one to kill the dragon and when we played Kings and Peasants, if anyone was about to conquer your kingdom, you changed the rules, then you would declare all lands forfeit and force everyone to serve you.�

   Eomer smirked. �Well, that is because I was a better king.�

   �It was only a game!�

   �Yes, a game I was better at.�
   Jordan was enjoying herself immensely as she listened to the siblings banter back and forth. This was a side of them she had never seen before. For the first time she saw them not as a princess and a king but simply just people. However, as they continued to argue, Jordan felt a growing discomfort pressing in around her. It was very subtle, like a nagging thought in the back of her mind, but noticeable enough to distract her from the conversation.
   �The other children were becoming quite weary of his antics,� Eowyn continued, �and decided they would try to put him in his place. They dared Eomer to try to swim out past the waves knowing beforehand that he would fail. They were all familiar with the strong current and the tides, but Eomer knew nothing about such things.�
   As she continued to listen to Eowyn�s story, the strange discomfort became ever more present, almost like a weight upon her chest. Jordan reached underneath the table and took Legolas� hand for reassurance, but when she did, the feeling only got stronger, almost making her jump when she touched him. She stole a glance at Legolas and he turned and smiled at her. There was nothing in his expression or his body language that indicated he was anything but calm and contented. In fact, no one else at the table seemed to be affected either. She was beginning to think she was having some sort of anxiety attack, which was unusual since she was not prone to them nor was there anything that could have triggered it. She fought the urge to fidget and squirm in her seat so no one would notice anything was wrong, but in doing so, it was becoming harder to focus on what Eowyn was saying.
   �He made a valiant effort but the water was frigid and the waves were too strong. He finally succumbed to the current and he nearly drowned but fortunately the sea spit him out on the rocks bruised, shaking, and gasping for air but otherwise no worse for the wear.�
   Finally, she let go of Legolas� hand and the feeling lessened and eventually faded away. Though she couldn�t quite understand how or why, she got the impression Legolas was its source. What was it about the conversation that made him uncomfortable? Drowning? Or could it be the sea itself? Perhaps he did not like the sea either. However, she was fairly certain it was not a feeling of distaste, it was more like agitation and duress. She would have to remember to ask him about it later when they were alone.
   �That is amazing. Eomer, you were very lucky. It would not have been long before hypothermia set in.� Jordan said.

   �Hypothermia?� Eomer questioned with a puzzled look on his face. �What is that?�

   �It is a decrease of your core body temperature from its normal level of 98.6 due to prolonged exposure to environmental factors such as immersion in cold water. It results in impaired motor function, loss of consciousness, and eventually systemic organ failure and death,� was her automatic clinical answer.

   Everyone stared wide-eyed at her as if she were speaking a foreign language.

   �Ah...in its simplest terms, it means freezing to death.� She explained.

   After that, murmurs of understanding were heard around the table.

   �Well, some good came from it, anyway.� Eowyn continued. �After Eomer recovered, we were no longer allowed to play down by the pier, so he took to spending his time in the stables and it was then that he met Lothiriel. It was the first time I saw him smile since our father died.�

   A determined look fell across Eomer�s face. �It was not Lothiriel, it was...� His voice trailed off. Who was it? He could not remember now.

   �Yes it was. She was there for riding lessons. You helped her learn how to tack up her horse. I cannot believe you do not remember.�

   Eomer tugged at his lower lip as he thought back. It had been so long since he had revisited memories from his youth. Suddenly it came back to him in a rush and the recognition registered in his eyes. Eowyn had been right.

   �You are doing that wrong.� Eomer said from his hiding spot high atop a stack of baled hay.

   The girl threw the contraption on the ground in frustration and turned in the direction of the voice. �Who are you?�

   Eomer scurried halfway down the hay bales then jumped the remaining distance landing with a thud on the hay-strewn floor. �My name is Eomer.�

   �Why are you hiding in the stables?�

   He paused for a moment but did not answer. �Here, let me show you. The two straps form a �V� down the horse�s chest and the single strap goes through its legs like this and attach to the girth.� He explained, connecting the breastplate with lightning efficiency.

   �I do not know why I have to learn to tack up my own horse!� She said indignantly. �There are servants to do that!�

   �What if all of your servants are dead and you need to escape the city?�

   She scowled at him and put her hands on her hips. �Very unlikely.�

   Eomer shrugged his shoulders. �It is still good to know.�

   �How do you know so much about horses anyway?�

   �I have grown up around them. Horses are a way of life in my land.�

   �Where do you come from?�

   �Rohan.�

   �I have heard of Rohan in my studies. It is the land of the Horse Lords.�

   Eomer nodded.

   �Well, what are you doing here?� She asked, scowling again.

   �My sister and I are staying with our cousin for a time. My parents...um, they died.� Eomer said quietly, dropping his gaze to the ground.

   Her scowl changed to a sympathetic smile. �I am sorry. Truly.� After a pause, she said, �My name is Lothiriel.�

   He looked up and saw her smile and at that moment, she was the most beautiful girl he had ever seen in all his twelve years.

   �Lothiriel!� A man called from opposite end of the long stables.

   Lothiriel lowered her voice to a loud whisper. �You should go. That is Erech, the trainer. Father insisted I take riding lessons.� She said, rolling her eyes.

   �I-I could help you before your next lesson.� Eomer blurted out. �That is, if you would like me to.� He added shyly.

   She paused to consider this, then smiled. �Thursday, same time. Now go, hurry!�

   Eomer grinned and ran off, disappearing between the stalls.

   �You remember.�

   �I do. You were right.� Eomer said looking a bit disturbed. �It was Lothiriel.�

   It was a time in his life he chose to block from his memory. The death of his father...his mother...being sent away from Rohan...the foolish stunt that almost took his life. Eomer spent that summer hating Theoden; even blaming him for the death of his parents. As an adult, Eomer understood now that his uncle Theoden meant well. Theoden thought it would do the children some good to get away from the place where around every corner lurked a reminder of the death of their parents, but to a twelve-year-old boy, it felt like rejection. His friendship with Lothiriel had been the one thing that brought him joy. She was a light in the darkness and he had loved her then as much as any boy could. As miserable as he had been in Dol Amroth, when summer came to a close, he did not wish to leave. Rohan no longer felt like home to him. Home was where his father and mother lived and they were no longer there. Going home not only meant having to leave one he had come to love, it meant that his childhood was over. Necessity dictated that he trade the carefree days of his youth for the sword and shield�for whom now would look after his sister if not him? In time, Theoden came to care for Eomer and Eowyn as if they were his own children. Eomer eventually was able to come to terms with his grief. He grew up strong, becoming a skilled rider and warrior. He was named Third Marshall of the Riddermark as his father before him and the painful memories of the past were locked away and forgotten. With the resurfacing of this old memory, Eomer realized why he felt so connected to Lothiriel, why she seemed so familiar. Did she remember as well?
   �Whatever happened to the two of you? I though you were quite fond of each other.� Then Eowyn�s eyes lit up and she grinned. �It is not Imrahil you go to see is it? Lothiriel is the reason for your visit!�

   Eomer looked up at his sister crossly. Sometimes her inquisitiveness could be quite trying, especially when there was something he wished to remain private.

   �Yes, I am going to see Lothiriel,� he admitted, �with the intent to initiate a courtship.�

   �Well, why did you not come out and say so in the first place? Why all the pretense?�

   �Because I felt the situation needed to be approached with some discretion. It is important that I make it to Dol Amroth without delay if I am to be successful in winning her heart and I did not want anyone or anything to interfere.�

   �Why would anyone interfere?�

   �Complications always seem to arise at the least inopportune time. When I came to Minas Tirith for a council meeting, I did not anticipate I would be hunting Orcs!�

   �I suppose. What I do not understand is why you parted ways in the first place.�

   �She resided in Dol Amroth, I in Rohan. I had duties and responsibilities tying me to my homeland and she to hers.�

   �So that was it? You just gave up?�

   �I suppose it would be rather difficult to conduct a courtship through correspondence.� Jordan said.

   �Indeed.� Eomer answered.

   �No, no. If you love someone, you should stop at nothing to be together!� Eowyn countered. �There must have been a time when you could have broken away from your duties to see her...like now.�

   �I had just been crowned King of the Mark, Eowyn. I had not yet even established my rule. The country had been ravaged by the war and the people still reeling from Theoden�s death. I could not leave. Anyway, it mattered not. Lothiriel did not wish it. She knew it could be years before I could turn my attention to other things and she did not want to be a distraction...nor did she want to wait. We were simply at a point in our lives where a relationship would have proven impossible. She took it as a sign that we were not meant to be, kindly rejected any further notions of such thoughts, and bid me farewell. I was disappointed to say the least but I was determined to put the whole affair behind me�and did so rather effectively for a while, that is until the delegate�s meeting. To be quite honest, I was not expecting to see her here and it has been...awkward to say the least. I tried to respectfully maintain my distance and distract myself with other things but it was not until the evening spent with Jordan�and forgive me Jordan, you are a lovely woman�that I realize I would not be satisfied with anyone other than Lothiriel. I decided to make one last attempt to gain her favor, and this time, she set forth a challenge for me to prove my affections and court her formally in her homeland...where our time spent would not be interrupted.�

   �Oh, Eomer, I think that is wonderful! It is a strong woman indeed that could resist your passion and determination. I just know you will be successful!�

   �So...I was merely a distraction eh, Eomer?� Jordan asked, feigning indignity.

   Jordan�s bold comment took Eomer by surprise. �Well, yes...I mean...no, no. Of course not. I just...�

   Jordan laughed. �It�s okay.� She caressed Legolas� cheek with her hand and smiled lovingly at him before looking back at Eomer. �I think everything worked out for the best.�

   �My, my, Eomer. I do not think I have ever seen you at such a loss for words.� Legolas joked which elicited laughter from everyone�everyone except Eomer, that is.

   Eomer straightened up stoically in his chair �Yes, well...� He muttered, dismissing the charge with a wave of his hand and a toss of his golden mane, then quickly changed the subject.

   �Legolas, Faramir, if you are both finished with your breakfast, we should make haste. Aragorn will be expecting us.�
   As they all walked outside to the courtyard, Jordan turned to Legolas and asked, �How long will you be gone?�

   �A few hours I suspect. After Aragorn has been briefed, Faramir and I are going to attempt to obtain a cart. I have a feeling we will be leaving with more than what we came with.�

   �Is there anything I should do in the meantime to get ready?�

   �You could gather your belongings; pack up anything you do not need at the moment. If there is anything you would like to procure at the market to bring back to Emyn Arnen, now would a good time to do that as well.�

   Jordan shrugged her shoulders. �I don�t have any means to buy anything.�

   �I am sorry, how foolish of me. I was not thinking.� Legolas stopped and reached into a pouch hanging from his belt. He produced a smaller drawstring pouch and placed it in her hand. �This should be more than enough.�

   She bounced it in her hand assessing its weight. It was quite heavy, filled with, she assumed, gold coins or ingots.

   �Legolas, you don�t have to give me this!�

   �But I wish to. I love you and if there is something you desire, anything at all, I would see that you have it.�

   �You are very sweet, Legolas, but I don�t know that there is anything I need or want.�

   �A warm cloak perhaps? The weather will soon be getting colder. At least look around, you may find something that catches your eye.�

   �Legolas, are you coming?� Faramir called.

   Legolas looked over and saw that the rest of the group was already halfway across the courtyard.

   �I will be right there, Faramir.� He called back. �I will meet you in your quarters when we are done.� He then said to Jordan.

   �Okay.�

   Legolas leaned down and kissed her, long and lingering, his tongue snaking over her lower lip before he pulled away.

   �Mmm. I shall have to taste those lips again when I return.� He whispered into her ear making her cheeks blush furiously.

   �See you soon.� She said with a hitch in her breath.
   Jordan joined Eowyn by the White Tree and watched the three disappear into the Hall of Kings. Eowyn was eying her expectantly and Jordan knew what she wanted her to say.

   �I take it things went well last night.� Eowyn prodded.

   �Yes. So how are you feeling this morning?� Jordan asked, coyly changing the subject.

   �Oh, no. You are not going to get out of it that easily. I want to hear about what happened.�

   Jordan giggled and grabbed Eowyn�s arm, pulling her towards the gate to the lower levels. �Okay. Come with me to the market and I will tell you everything.�
~~~~~
   Aragorn sat on the high throne, which he had had restored to its original design before the days of stewards. No longer was there a lower throne for the steward to occupy but instead, two high thrones that sat side by side so that his queen would have a place beside him. Today, however, that seat was empty�Arwen was not there.

   �My friends! You return at last!� Aragorn said, welcoming Eomer, Legolas, and Faramir with outstretched arms. They came to stand in a line at the foot of the throne and bowed before him. Had they been anywhere else, they would not have felt it necessary to do so, but while Aragorn sat on the throne, they would give his position the proper respect. In turn, Aragorn could not possibly address his friends looking down upon them from the high throne, even though it was his right and was to be expected. He stepped down from the throne to their level and said, �Come. Let us speak in private.�
   He led them down a long corridor and into the chamber of the High Council, the place where they had spent much time debating the trade agreement, and closed the door behind them. The spacious room was lined floor to ceiling on two sides with bookshelves; on the other walls hung various displays of weapons. To one side, stood a large wooden table with some maps spread out upon it and in the corner hung a heavy velvet curtain concealing an entrance to another room, but perhaps the most striking feature of the room was the enormous mosaic of painted tiles on the floor creating a map of the known world.
   �Please sit.� Aragorn said, motioning to the chairs lining the large table. After everyone was seated, he looked around the room. �Where are Mordren and Firindor? Why have they not come?�

   �They are dead.� Legolas answered matter-of-factly.

   �What? How?�

   �Mordren was cut down by an Orc blade defending my life.�

   �You were ordered not to engage the Orcs in battle!�

   �They attacked a Dr�edain village. We could not idly stand by and let them be slaughtered.�

   �The Dr�edain?� Aragorn asked incredulously. �You know that to enter the Dr�edain Forest is forbidden!�

   �And we would not of if our situation had not been so dire. We were in desperate need of food and water which they graciously provided.� Legolas answered.

   �But not before shooting us with poisoned darts and dragging us into their village.� Faramir added bitterly.

   �Poisoned darts?�

   �A most disagreeable experience.� Eomer added as well.

   �While we took shelter with the Dr�edain, the Orcs attacked their village unprovoked. They would have been quickly overpowered had we not helped them.� Legolas said.

   �Well, what was the outcome of the battle?� Aragorn asked.

   �The Orc-party was decimated. The threat is no more.�

   �Well, at least some good came from it but I do not understand why Mordren did not abort the mission when he knew supplies were low.�

   �Firindor, among others, tried to convince him to, but he would not hear of it.� Faramir said.

   �Show me your route on the map.� Aragorn demanded, pointing to the map laid out on the table.

   �The soldier�s encampment was found here.� Legolas pointed to a section of foothills near the White Mountains. �From there, we followed the Orc trail northeast into the plains of Anorien.� He said, drawing a line across the map.

   �Mordren would know of a small village right here,� Aragorn said, pointing to a spot near the Great West Road, �just a few miles off your course. It is a trading post. Why did you not stop there to replenish your food and supplies?�

   �We did, though it was too late. The Orcs had burned the village.�

   �And the people?� Aragorn asked.

   �Slaughtered.�

   �Save one.� Eomer added. �A blind and lame boy hiding in one of the store houses. He mistook Firindor for an Orc and lunged at him with a sword, catching Firindor off guard. He was blind but somehow his sword managed to find its target. Firindor�s wound was fatal. We buried him under a tree just outside the ruins of the village.�

   Aragorn rubbed his face with his hand and groaned. �How far had you gone before your rations had run out?�

   Legolas studied the map for a moment. �It was here approximately.� He said, pointing to a spot just below the foothills of the mountains.

   �That is nowhere near the village!� Aragorn said angrily, slamming his fist on the table. �Had you been, I could accept his decision to keep moving. But this? This is blatant disobedience! His orders were to only go as far as the food and supplies would hold out. It was by no means my intention to have you resort to survival tactics to complete the mission. If he had lived, I would have him stripped of rank!�

   �Mordren may have made an error in judgment, Aragorn, but do not forget he selflessly sacrificed his life to save mine. No matter what offences he may have committed beforehand, he acted honorably when it mattered most, and for that I am grateful.�

   �Had he obeyed orders, none of you would have been placed in a situation such as that!�

   �Yes, this is true, but then the Dr�edain would be the ones who lay slaughtered, not the Orcs.� Eomer said.

   �Aragorn, I cannot speak for Eomer and Faramir, but I am not bitter about the course of events. It was a hardship, yes, but we have all endured worse. The loss of Firindor and Mordren are most regrettable but they died in service to their country, an honorable deed and I think what we have gained gives their deaths meaning. The Orcs have been vanquished. No more will the people of Gondor have to live in fear knowing that at any given moment, they may be attacked. As well, we have made great strides in relations with the Dr�edain. I believe one day they will come out of their forest and the people of Gondor will see that they are not the savages they made them out to be. They are a culture rich with tradition and a love for family, and although they are not as advanced as other races, as a people they have much to offer.�

   �Spoken like a true diplomat, Legolas.� Aragorn said. �I can always count on you to point out the good in any situation.� He rubbed his face with his hand and sighed wearily. �Well, Mordren has no known next of kin but what of Firindor? I had not the chance to come to know him. He had not served long.�

   �He leaves behind a young wife. We informed her of his passing ourselves. It seemed...the right thing to do. We did not wish to wait and have rumor reach her ear.� Faramir said.

   �Thank you for that. I know it is not easy. How does she fare?�

   �She is beside herself with grief as you can imagine.�

   �Any family to speak of?�

   �That I do not know. She serves in the Houses of Healing.�

   �I will see to it that her needs are met. Now then, let me turn your attention to another matter. I am not certain if you have yet to realize, being in the wilds for so long, but tomorrow marks the beginning of Cormar�. I know you are all probably eager to return to your homes, but please consider staying on through the festival. It would be wonderful to have you all here.�

   Although Aragorn and Arwen were dear to him, Legolas was anxious to complete the work on the garden and return to his home in time for the Elves� own celebration of the coming season.

   �A tempting offer indeed, Aragorn, but it would only delay the inevitable. Responsibilities beckon. I think it best if we departed as planned.� Legolas said.

   Faramir and Eomer, both talking over each other, quickly but politely declined as well.

   �I thought you might say that. Well, if you will not do it for me, how about for some old friends?�

   At that moment, the heavy curtain in the corner parted and out stepped Gimli, then Gandalf behind him.

   �Gimli! Gandalf!� Legolas exclaimed.

   �Aye laddie! It�s good to see ya!�

   �Dearest friends, at last we meet again.� Gandalf said.

   Aragorn took a few steps back, chuckling to himself as the reunited friends greeted each other boisterously.

   �What brings you to Minas Tirith, Gandalf?� Faramir asked.

   �I was in Lothlorien for a brief stay when word reached us that several parties of Orcs were seen converging on Anorien. The sense of urgency in their purpose and the quickness in their pace all led us to believe that this was not just a resettling, but a mission more sinister in nature. I came to bid Aragorn warning but as it were, he was already one step ahead. Since I was here, I though I would stay through Cormar�. What better place to honor Frodo than the place where his victory was hailed?�

   �Indeed.� Aragorn said, coming forward. �So, what say you? Will you stay?�

   �An opportunity such as this may never present itself again�so many of us here in one place.� Gandalf added, glancing at Aragorn knowingly.

   �Perhaps I could spare a few days more.� Legolas said. �Besides, I think Gimli would have my head if I refused.�

   �Ah, but what a pretty trophy it would be.� Gimli retorted.

   The whole group burst into laughter and Gandalf shook his head saying, �Some things never change.�

   �Well, it may take some convincing where Eowyn is concerned but I have a few methods of persuasion that may prove effective.� Faramir said with a wide grin.

   �Now that�s the spirit, my boy!� Gimli cheered.

   The group turned to Eomer who had yet to answer.

   �Eomer?� Aragorn questioned.

   Eomer had the look of one torn between two desires, and Legolas and Faramir knew the reason�his expected arrival in Dol Amroth. �Alright, I stay. Three days, but then I really must depart.� He said.

   �Excellent. It is settled then.� Aragorn declared.
   Never would a more unlikely group of friends be found. Most of them had never even met before the war. With the exception of Aragorn and Gandalf, they were mere strangers brought together by a common purpose, forced to set aside their differences and work together to save the world in which they lived from the shadow of evil. It was the great trial of their time, testing their strength and resolve, pushing them all well beyond the breaking point, a baptism of fire and blood. It was only when everything else was stripped away that they saw each other for who they truly were�not as men, elves, dwarves, or wizards, but people courageous in spirit, noble in deed, and goodness of heart. Together, they had endured hardship, felt the bitterness of loss and ruin, and ultimately rejoiced in victory. Whether a member of the Fellowship or no, the journey would be part of them all for the rest of their lives and out of it formed a bond between them that nothing or no one could break.
   Although the order of business had been agreed upon and concluded, they lingered long into the afternoon talking of times of old and years to come. They would have been content to carry on for hours more, but there were preparations to be made for the celebration and matters that needed attending to. Aragorn reluctantly ushered his friends back to the great hall where they bid him farewell in turn, but before they went on their way, Aragorn invited them all to supper at his home that evening.
~~~~~
   Outside in the courtyard, the sun shined blindingly against the cloudless sky; its strength nearly reaching that of a mid summer�s day despite the transitioning season. The celebration of Cormar� drew merchants from both far and near eager to sell their wares, and already they busied themselves erecting tables and large cook tents on the green. City-folk scurried about hanging banners and other sorts of decorations. The companions watched the flurry of activity with curiosity for there had been none there when they came to see Aragorn this morning.
   They weaved their way through the bustle to the gate and down through the tunnel to the sixth level. Coming to a halt, they turned to each other, wondering where the other was going.

   Gandalf cleared his throat. �Well, friends, it is here that our paths diverge. I have many things to do, many things to gather to ready my contribution to the festival. Until supper.� He said with a nod of his staff. Eomer stated he needed to depart as well to draft a letter to be carried to Dol Amroth in all haste explaining his delay, leaving only Faramir, Legolas, and Gimli to remain.
   The three friends strolled leisurely down the city street towards the guest quarters weaving in and out of people and carts.

   �And what matter has brought you to Minas Tirith, my friend?� Legolas asked Gimli.

   �Well, there is this overly-impatient princeling in Emyn Arnen somewhere waiting for a consignment of ithildin-traced stones for his garden, so I thought I would deliver them myself. But first, you know I cannot pass up a good celebration!�

   This rousted a laugh from Faramir and excitement flashed in Legolas� eyes.

   �You have the stones? Gimli, I cannot thank you enough! You do not know what a relief it is to hear that. Once the stones are in place, the garden will be complete and I can return to the colony.�

   �Are you so eager to leave us, Legolas?� Faramir asked.

   �Not eager but ready. I took great pleasure in creating a thing of beauty, befitting of yours and Eowyn�s great deeds. I have enjoyed cultivating the earth as well as our friendship, but I grow weary of stone walls. My heart wishes to dwell in the cool green of the forest once again.�

   �But what of Jordan? Her home is in Emyn Arnen for now. What if she wishes to remain with her own kind? It may be unnerving to be the only one of your kind amidst a whole village of a different race.�

   �It may be indeed, though you forget, Faramir, that she is neither my kinfolk nor yours. That is her burden to bear no matter where she chooses to reside�and wherever that may be, I will abide by her wishes.�

   �So you would stay in Emyn Arnen if she wished it?� Faramir asked.

   �Pardon my asking, if I may be so bold, but what manner of person is this Jordan that she cannot be counted among Men or Elves?� Gimli interjected.

   Legolas forgot that Gimli was not aware of Jordan�s origins and he had to think quickly.

   �Forgive me, Gimli, if I was not clear. I simply meant that she is not an Elf, but neither does she have any kinfolk in Gondor.� He hoped his explanation would be satisfactory.

   �Oh. I see.� It still did not make much sense to Gimli. He had heard Faramir say her home was in Emyn Arnen and that she may wish to stay with her own kind. Emyn Arnen was a part of Gondor. And what manner of name was �Jordan�? It sounded foreign. No matter he supposed. After all these years, the Elf was still a mystery to him.

   �As I was saying, Faramir, I am hoping she will find the colony so much to her liking that she will not mind living amongst the Elves.�

   �Your conversation has lost me. Have you married, Legolas, but neglected to inform, nay, invite me to the wedding?� Gimli asked.

   �Gimli, you wound me! I would never cut you out of something so important, but to answer your question: no, we have yet to marry, but I am hopeful that may be soon.�

   �So Legolas Greenleaf has found love at last!� Gimli declared.

   �I have, and in the most unlikeliest of places.�

   �Aye, a mortal woman, if I understood correctly?� He stated on a more serious note.

   �Aye. Does that trouble you?�

   Gimli exhaled through pursed lips. �I fear the suffering you will face will be more than you can bear...but you and you alone, Master-Elf, are the designator of your own fate and I will stand beside you to whatever end.�

   �Thank you, Gimli. Your support means a great deal to me.�

   Having come to the alleyway that led to the guest quarters, they paused for a moment at the corner, uncertain if Gimli wished to follow or continue on.

   �I have not spoken as much until now, but you have mine and Eowyn�s as well.� Faramir said.

   �Thank you, Faramir. Would you like to meet her, Gimli?�

   �I would consider it a privilege to meet the woman who stole the heart of our fair princeling.�

   �Gimli, I am older than you by far.� Legolas said with a curious smile.

   �I know. Lead on, Master-Elf!� Gimli exclaimed.
   While Legolas and Gimli stopped in front of Jordan�s room, Faramir bid them farewell and continued on to attend to Eowyn. Jordan opened the door, chastising Legolas for knocking instead of just entering, but the sight of Legolas� companion took her by surprise and she stopped mid sentence. There stood before her eyes was a stout, dark-bearded Dwarf�a stark contrast to Legolas� tall and fair form. Gimli was no less surprised, not quite knowing what to expect, and they both paused a second to stare at each other with their mouths agape.

   �Oh! Hello!� She said, stepping aside so they could enter.

   �Jordan, this is Gimli, a very good friend of mine. Gimli, may I introduce Jordan.�

   �Hello, Gimli. It�s nice to meet you.� She said politely, extending her hand. Gimli grasped it with his rough, pudgy fingers but did not shake it; instead, he brought it to his lips and kissed it, the coarse hairs of his beard tickling her skin. With a nod of his head and a slight bow, he said, �My lady, it is an honor to meet you.�

   �Do you live here in Minas Tirith?� Jordan asked.

   �Ah, no. My home lies to the west underneath the White Mountains in the Glittering Caves.�

   Jordan raised an eyebrow. �Glittering caves? Sounds fascinating.�

   �Aye, lassie. One of the most beautiful sites you would ever hope to lay eyes on!� Gimli replied enthusiastically.

   �Wow! Well, maybe we will have to visit you sometime.�

   �It would be a privilege.�

   �So what brings you to Minas Tirith?�

   �Why the celebration, of course!�

   Jordan looked at Legolas �Celebration? What celebration?�

   �My love, there has been a change of plans.�
To be continued....
- 22
- 23
- 24
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

Love's Redemption