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Journey Of A Butterfly	By : Mel99Moe Category: -Fourth Age to Modern times and beyond > Het - Male/Female Views: 5714 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own any characters or places of Lord of the Rings/Tolkien. No money is being made. This is for personal enjoyment only.

Chapter List
- 69
- 70
- 71
Chapter 70 - Last Meal and Conversation

“I am torn, Feredir,” Terrwyn started as she was placing the last of her things into her traveling bags. She had come to Eryn Lasgalen with nothing more than the clothes on her back, but was leaving with an array of fine elvish dresses and a few personal items.

“What troubles you, love?”

“Ever since learning of this place, I longed to come and I have found your begetting home to be everything I imagined it to be, as well as its people. A part of me wishes to stay for it feels like my home now also, but the other half of my heart yearns to get back to Ithilien.”

Feredir came up behind her, pulling her to his chest. “You know how I feel. My home is in your arms.” He began nipping at her neck, making her squirm.

“Feredir,” she protested between giggles.

“Alright, I agree that Ithilien calls to us. It will be good to get back to something familiar.”

“And to make a home . . . a real home for ourselves,” she continued.

“And maybe start a family,” Feredir added.

Terrwyn was silent and stilled. Feredir thought he had spoken too soon. It had been on his mind lately, but never had he or Terrwyn discussed it. Now he regretted his sudden admission as her body went rigid. “You do want that, don’t you?”

As quick as a whip, Terrwyn spun in his arms to face him and her look eased his mind. Her eyes were as wide as her smile. “You have never mentioned this before. I thought perhaps it was too soon, which is why I never brought it up.”

“Well, I don’t mean to start now or even when we settle in Gondor, but someday soon after that.”

“That sounds like the perfect plan.” She kissed him as her arms snaked around his neck, the feel of his soft hair spilling over her skin.

Feredir heated as she deepened the kiss. Just when he thought there might be time for a last minute romp in the sheets before meeting Horphen and the other travelers, she pushed him away. “Oh,” she yelled out. “I almost forgot. A letter came for me yesterday, from Hathmund.”

Her brother had stayed for a short while after the wedding. He told her that being around the elves was very healing after all the years of torment of being a slave. He found that the elves were nothing like the Haradrim tricked him into believing. Now he was back in Rohan, but not as a soldier as he had once dreamed. After helping Eomer and offering him all his knowledge of the Haradrim, he decided he did not want court life either. Now, Hathmund lived a quiet life amongst his kinsmen and took over a blacksmith’s shop. He found he had a natural talent for forging metal, supplying weapons and other useful works for the people of Edoras. He had made some of the finest swords for King Eomer as well as some other nobles of the court, Erkenbrand being one of them.

“He says word of his fine craftsmanship has reached as far as Gondor and he has been offered a lucrative job in Osgiliath,” Terrwyn explained as she looked at the parchment.

“Word travels fast. So what does he say?”

Terrwyn smiled. “He is moving there just as soon as he finishes his current commissions. Is this not wonderful news?”

“Gondor will be blessed to have his talent.”

Terrwyn put the letter down on a table and went back to packing as she continued. “I believe the Lady Éowyn and the Lady Lothiriel had everything to do with it. Rumor has it that they correspond quite frequently. I think Hathmund’s handy work was mentioned at some point and word reached Lord Faramir’s ears. The offer to acquire Hathmund was rather grand, his own business and a crew of men at his calling. Really, it was too good an offer to pass up.”

“And Eomer did not counter the offer to keep your brother in Rohan?”

“He makes no mention of it, though I do not know what transpired between them. I’m just so happy that I will have my brother near me again, as it once was.”

“It is surely wonderful news, Naru.”

Terrwyn finished her packing and looked around the empty room. “Well, I guess that’s it.”

“Not quite,” Feredir said and she looked at him suspiciously.

* * *

She thought they were going to meet the other travelers, but Feredir led her to Thranduil’s throne room where they found Horphen and the others. Also amongst the celebrants were Irneth and her sisters, Glothel the seamstress, Orthorien and a few other friends they made during their stay. A small but elegant meal was spread out on a long table and the couple was beckoned to sit and enjoy a last meal together with their friends.

Everyone had a seat and the conversations started immediately before anyone ate. Then one last guest joined them, stepping out from one of his many rooms. Thranduil approached the table and all voices hushed as the elves stood in respect for their treasured king. He smiled and gestured for everyone to sit. Then the king picked up his goblet before taking his own seat. “We could not let you leave without filling your bellies first.” Thranduil raised his glass. “I think I speak for everyone here when I say we enjoyed your company here in Eryn Lasgalen. We are richer for having known you, Terrwyn. And to Horphen and Feredir, it is always good to have our kin back. We wish you would stay, but understand your purpose to leave. Our city has spread outward because of the elvish colony in Ithilien. May you continue to teach others of our good will. Every one of you represents us and there is no finer group of elves to do this task. So now, eat and enjoy these last moments with friends and family. May the Valar watch over you and see you safely to Ithilien.”

Everyone raised their glass and agreed with Thranduil. The king took his seat and the feast began. The hall was filled with laughter as everyone spent this time joyfully together.

There was only one person not in attendance and Terrwyn wondered why. Remlas was not amongst the others. Maybe there was an emergency and he could not leave the healing house. She told herself this many times, but to no avail. Knowing Remlas, he plainly did not see reason to be here. After all, she was not as close to him as she was to some of the other elves at the meal. He was her teacher and nothing more. Still, she was saddened not to see him at least once more briefly before they were on their way.

Too soon it seemed, the meal ended. The elves said their last goodbyes to the travelers and they dispersed from the king’s hall, each in their own direction. They would meet at the gates in an hour and be off. Feredir and Terrwyn slowly made their way through the winding corridors. As they passed one of the many small gathering rooms, she heard someone call her name. She glanced into the room to see Remlas standing, looking very authoritative. She stopped walking and Feredir looked back to see why.

“Go on and I will catch up to you.” As she spoke, she nodded towards the open door. Feredir saw Remlas wearing in his long white healers robe and he smiled to his wife.

“Don’t be too long,” he said and kissed her forehead before advancing down the hall.

“Remlas, why were you not at the feast? Everyone was there,” she wondered.

“As I’ve told you before, I’m not one for such outward celebrations. However, I did want to see you before you left.”

“I am glad. It just did not seem right to leave without at least one more word. I never thanked you for all you have taught me. I feel so much more prepared now and I cannot wait to get back to Ithilien and put my knowledge to use.”

Remlas, who never showed any form of emotion, allowed the corners of his mouth to curl the slightest bit into a smile. “You are very bright, Terrwyn and I have every confidence that you will succeed as a healer. It is because of this that I wish to give you something of mine.” He walked to a table and picked up a hinged case made of birch wood. Elvish runes filled with mithril inlay decorated the lid. It was an exquisite looking box. He held it in his hands with the silver latch facing her. “Go on and open it.”

Terrwyn looked at her teacher a moment, wondering what it could be. Then she opened the lid to find small vials and glass jars all neatly tucked into their proper place. The inside was lined with purple velvet. Wooden dividers protected the containers from clinking together. It was obvious that this was a traveling medicine case, but a very elegant one.

“It is beautiful, Remlas.”

“It was mine when I started my career. Now it belongs to you,” he said dryly, still unable to show any enthusiasm.

Terrwyn could feel his hesitation and awkwardness. She would not make a fuss, but she would make sure he knew how much she appreciated this unique gift. “I . . . I don’t know what to say.”

“Say nothing and just take it before I change my mind,” he said in his usual stern tone. He closed the lid and handed the case to her.

“I will treasure it, Remlas,” she responded, ignoring his scowl. Quickly before Remlas could react, Terrwyn moved closer and kissed him on the cheek. Embarrassed, she looked to the floor as she took two big steps backwards. She thought he would give her one more berating for her outlandish behavior, but instead, Remlas laid a warm gentle hand upon her arm and she looked up into his blue eyes to see a spark she had never noticed before.

“You have been a wonderful student and I am quite proud of you,” he whispered.

“Thank you, Remlas,” she answered, a glimmer of a tear forming.

Remlas noticed and cleared his throat as he let go of her arm. Quick as lightening, he was the stuffy healer once more. “Well, what are you waiting for? Get going before they leave without you.”

Terrwyn knew he wouldn’t want her to say anything more. She nodded and bowed slightly before she left without looking back. Something told her that he would not be watching her anyways. They had their private moment and it was time to move on, but Remlas would forever be in her heart.

* * *

“Brother, I will miss you,” Feredir said as he and Orthorien grasped arms.

“Are you surprised?” Orthorien jested.

“It is a much better departure than the last time I passed these gates,” Feredir admitted.

“You will come and visit Ithilien won’t you?” Terrwyn asked.

“In time I think I will. For now, there is much to do here,” Orthorien said smiling.

“Terrwyn?” a voice called. She turned to see Irneth standing back from the others and went to her. The friends embraced each other.

“I am going to miss you so much, Irneth. You’ve taught me so many things about my heritage and you are such a good friend. I really hate to leave you.”

“I wish you would stay since I cannot leave. I was waiting to tell you this, but I got my first assignment as a scribe,” Irneth said excitedly.

“Already? But I thought you were just starting your training.”

“So did I, but the master wordsmith saw some of my work with translations of dwarvish to Sindarin and said I was quite advanced for my training. I am going to be an assistant to one of the court translators.”

“You deserve this, Irneth. I know how hard you have worked for such an opportunity.” Terrwyn hugged her again. “I will write you and keep you informed on what happens in Ithilien.”

“And make sure to tell me all the things that Horphen will not.” Irneth teased. “And I want all the details.”

“I will be watching him,” Terrwyn answered and the friends shared in one more laugh together.

* * *

The packs were secured to the horses, supplies were plentiful and with a few last embraces and shed tears, the group of eight travelers mounted and set off over the bridge and along the forest path. It was a long way to Gondor from here, but it would be mostly uneventful. With two of Ithilien’s best soldiers amongst the group, they had nothing to fear from robbers or evil doers along the road. Soon, the elvish colony of North Ithilien would have new residents as well as returning ones. Feredir and Terrwyn were anxious to get back as well as Horphen. It had been a long journey for them since leaving their home, but it would be well worth it to return.

With only a few days of travel left, the small group from Eryn Lasgalen was anxious to arrive at their new home. Those who had never been outside of Rhovanion were not sure what to expect while those returning to Ithilien would be glad to settle into the comfort of the new city once again.

“I for one cannot wait to perch upon my favorite stool at my favorite haunt and order a glass of Ithilien’s finest wine,” Horphen said as he reminisced with Feredir. They had stopped to make camp for the night. There were no inns for miles around and so it was a night beneath the stars for the elves.

Feredir regarded his friend with a smile. “I thought you might not be ordering the house best now.” Horphen seemed confused and Feredir clarified. “You do remember where that particular bottle is kept, who retrieves it and how she does it.” He was of course referring to Feona, the finer wine under the bar and the full exposure to her cleavage as she bent down to retrieve the bottle.

“And what ever gave you that thought?” Horphen asked.

“I just thought since speaking to Rhawen about life in Ithilien and her decision to leave Eryn Lasgalen--.” Rhawen had been the wine servant at his wedding, who he thought Horphen had come to know a little more intimately. Perhaps not, he thought as Horphen interrupted.

“Well, you thought wrong, my friend. I like Rhawen just fine, but there is nothing more. She seemed quite curios about Ithilien and I answered her questions as best I could. It was her decision to come along and not because of me.” Horphen paused to straighten the collar of his tunic.

Feredir glanced over his shoulder to where the women sat together next to the campfire, talking about whatever it was women spoke of. He caught Rhawen gazing from across the way, looking at Horphen and him unaware. “I wouldn’t be so sure of that.” Feredir rolled his eyes in the direction of the women and Horphen looked behind him. He saw Rhawen turn away quickly, but she had definitely been watching him.

“With you married to Terrwyn and Orthorien back in Eryn Lasgalen, I guess I’m the most eligible. I cannot be tying myself down to one elleth when so many deserve my attentions,” he boasted.

Feredir shook his head. “That kind of behavior will earn you a reputation.”

“I certainly hope so,” Horphen teased, which earned him a punch in the arm from his best friend.

* * *

It had been close to a year that Terrwyn had first entered through these gates and to an uncertain future. Now she was entering of her own will and very happy to be back in North Ithilien. It was early fall and the slightest feel of the season carried on the wind. The leaves were still green, though they were not as vibrant. The warmth of summer clearly had not passed just yet, but soon it would be replaced by the crispness of autumn. It would be nice to enjoy her favorite time of year without worry.

The newest colony members were in awe of the city, especially as they paused in the courtyard and observed all the many different kinds of citizens. Men, elves and even a few dwarves moved about the towns circle. For those daring enough to leave their begetting place, they found Ithilien to be just what they were hoping for.

Terrwyn paused and glanced across the courtyard, to the center where the fountain stood. She breathed deep, smiled and slowly released it. “We’re finally home, Feredir.”

“Yes, Naru we are home at last,” he agreed as he held her close.

She laughed as she observed the others and their state of wonderment. “I can truly understand what they are thinking right now, for I feel like one of the newest residents myself.”

Just then, they were met by a welcoming committee of sorts; members of Horphen and Feredir’s border guard along with a few family members of the other elves from Eryn Lasgalen. Terrwyn watched from the side as the travelers were swept away by the enthusiastic people. She laughed and felt the joy in her heart swell. What a wonderful sight.

“Now, I could not have one of the loveliest of Ithilien standing alone and unwelcomed. She should be greeted by at least one familiar face,” said a very old friend. Terrwyn turned to find none other than the chestnut haired ellon smiling at her, his hazel eyes shining brightly. Her mouth hung open as she gazed upon her childhood elf. “Careful or you’ll catch a fly in your throat,” he jested.

“Antien,” she sang as she hurried to him. Terrwyn embraced him and his contagious laughter made her join in. “Oh what a marvelous surprise.”

He released her and stood back, observing her from head to toe. “You are more beautiful every time I see you.” Terrwyn blushed and looked away as he continued. “The other’s wished they could have been here, but Master Curuven and Limil have a full waiting room. It seems there has been an outbreak amongst the human children … sniffles and everything that comes along with it. They told me to inform you that your old room upstairs is ready and waiting for you and Feredir. Limil insists that you stay with them until you find a place of your own.”

“They have always been more than kind. And what about Glandur? How is your better half?” she teased.

“Always the captain and always in control,” Antien answered. “And always checking on you it seems. He made sure to stay informed of everything while you were away.” He took her hands in his as his mood turned slightly somber. “We all prayed that the Valar would guide those helping you while you were in Rohan. It seems our laments were answered and when word came of your release, we were overjoyed. None of us would rest until we were sure you were safe in Eryn Lasgalen.”

“It was a very difficult time, Antien, but I stayed true to myself and my belief. I will not tell you what happened the day of my release, but I will say that I was very close to meeting my forefathers. But Feredir kept his promise and brought my salvation.” Her eyes misted over with a sheen of tears.

Antien wrapped his arms around her and held her close. “I did not mean for you to revisit those old feelings. It is over and you are safe, that’s all that matters now.” He released her and took her chin in his fingers, gazing into her eyes. “And you are married,” he smiled.

“Yes, we could not wait another moment and bound before we left Rohan.”

“We also got word of the blessing ceremony and had our own little celebration at the tavern. Everyone was there and we shared in food, drink and memories. I must admit, I was a little disappointed that the ceremony could not be here in Ithilien. I have been known to organize some of the best celebrations in Gondor,” he said proudly.

“Somehow that does not surprise me,” she responded with a laugh.

“Terrwyn,” Feredir called from across the way. “Terrwyn, come and meet some of my most trusted guardsmen.”

“I’ll be right there,” she said in return and looked back to Antien. “Tell Curuven and Limil thank you very much and we will see them in a bit. There is so much to catch up on.”

“I will. Now hurry to your husband. He cannot wait to show you off it seems.”

Terrwyn hugged him once more and watched him walk off towards the healing house. Then she joined Feredir as he introduced her to his troops. They were all very formal as they bowed hand over heart to her and asked that she join them, along with Feredir and Horphen in a celebratory glass of wine later at the Hallowed Leg. She accepted the invitation and the guardsmen congratulated Feredir once more before they went off to attend to their duties. Terrwyn laughed as she overheard them joking about being a city warden and hoping to find someone just as beautiful to guard.

Feredir heard too and blushed slightly, surprising his wife. “I don’t think you were meant to hear that.”

“It’s alright. They mean well and are very respectable people. Let them have their dreams,” she giggled.

“So where to first?” Feredir asked.

“First we must see Curuven and Limil, who have so graciously offered our old room for us to stay for now. After that, I don’t care what we do. I’m just glad to be back.”

“So am I, Naru,” he agreed and they walked arm in arm in the direction of the healing house.
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Journey Of A Butterfly