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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.

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Chapter 71 - Captain of the Ithilien Guard

“This could not have been a better homecoming,” Terrwyn sighed as she lay next to Feredir. They were comfortably back in their little room above the healing house, snuggled beneath the sheets and throws, wrapped in each other’s arms. “And the meal Limil prepared was absolutely exquisite.”

Feredir slid along beneath the sheets, kissing his way down her neck to her collarbone then running his tongue between her breasts. “Mmhmm,” he agreed.

“And I was so surprised when Glandur, Antien and Legolas arrived. Oh, it was just the perfect evening,” she continued.

“Mmhmm,” he moaned again, his mouth full of the soft flesh of her breasts.

“It just could not get much better, just a nice quiet evening rather than a big fanfare.” Terrwyn carried on as if Feredir were really listening. “I mean, don’t get me wrong. The feast and celebration in Eryn Lasgalen was wonderful. I wasn’t expecting any kind of a sendoff and it was nice to see everyone one last time, but you know me. I’d rather spend a quiet and more intimate time with those I am close to rather than a public affair.”

Feredir had worked his way down her ribs and her stomach as she rambled on. Now he paused and rolled his eyes from beneath the sheets. He threw the covers back and looked up at her, his black hair a jostled mess. Perhaps she had been paying attention to his ministrations because when he stopped she regarded him with a tilt of her head. He blew the hair out of his face as best he could and shook his head.

“What?” she asked sharply.

“You still talk too much, Naru.”

She laughed as he tickled her sides, making her squirm beneath him. Then he crawled his way back up and covered her with his naked body. “But I know how to shut you up.” His mouth devoured hers, tongues caressing. He pushed her thighs apart with his knee and settled into her warmth. The only sounds to come from Terrwyn were moans of pure pleasure as Feredir made love to her slowly at first and then more demanding with every thrust. When they were spent, Terrwyn curled into his arms, resting her head upon his chest. The only sound she heard for a long while was his heart beating and she was content to stay this way forever.

After a while, Feredir spoke. “I had a talk with Glandur tonight. He needs me back at the borders soon.”

“I knew you would have to go. They have been without you for a long time. Your talent is needed. Ithilien needs you. I guess I must share you then. I can’t keep you to myself forever,” she said smiling against his chest.

“Well, if things continue to be as quiet as they have been lately, my stay at the barracks will be less and I won’t be gone as long.”

“That will be good then, and good news to hear that there is not as much activity. Perhaps the peace talks between Gondor and Far Harad are helping, but I do not trust the Southrons to integrate into our society so easily,” she commented.

“They are not all as bad as you say, Naru. Some want nothing more than to be allowed to live peacefully in their own land.”

“Those are not the ones I worry about. Haradrim and Easterlings with a mindset like that of the slave traders and the clan leaders won’t be as willing to cooperate with the King of Gondor. I think they are just off licking their wounds for now. They will regroup and find a more efficient way to infiltrate our lands.”

“You may be right, Terrwyn,” Feredir agreed. “I have dealt with them for a long time and seen what they are capable of. Still, I think what Rohan and Gondor have accomplished with the transformation will have more wanting peace rather than turmoil. The enemies will be less.”

“Let’s not talk about this anymore. Soon you’ll be gone and I will have more work to do in the healing house.” Terrwyn paused and thought a moment. “Is it just me, or does Master Curuven seem a bit stretched?”

Feredir twirled a piece of Terrwyn’s hair between his fingers. “He has just been busy healing the town’s children. The outbreak seems to have subsided now.”

“Well, I hope to take some of the pressure off him. Working with Master Remlas has prepared me for more responsibilities and I look forward to putting my talents to good use.”

Feredir rolled onto his back, bringing Terrwyn with him so that she sat up, straddling his hips. “I say we put those talents to good use right now,” he growled in that low tone that set her on fire.

Terrwyn batted her eyelashes in a comical way as she moved down along his body. “Oh, I think I may know just what it is that ails you. Perhaps I can assist in curing my lord.” She shifted and then lowered herself upon his hardened cock.

“Oh gods, Terrwyn,” he moaned as he was instantly engulfed within her heat. “I love when you do that.”

* * *

Life in Ithilien was getting along quite well. Feredir was back amongst his troops patrolling the borders. He seemed to think much clearer now. His life was stable with Terrwyn in it. It was difficult for him to make rash decisions any more without first thinking of his wife and the responsibility of being a good husband. None of this made any difference when he fought though. Feredir was still the same ruthless warrior that he had always been, showing the enemy no mercy.

Glandur took full notice of Feredir’s drive. After careful consideration and seeing that the young elf could indeed show self-control, he decided to give Feredir control of his own troop. After several months of observation, the Captain was satisfied with the results and added more elves to Feredir’s battalion. He continued to do an excellent job of directing his men, training the new additions and earning the respect of those that followed his orders. The borders continued to be safe in all areas surrounding Ithilien, though there seemed to be an increase of disturbances within the community itself. There were minor scuffles as there was with any city that had as many different races as Ithilien. It was bothersome that these outbreaks occurred because of the newest members of the usually peaceful city. A small group of Haradrim refugees asked for permission to settle in Northern Ithilien. The elves, who were always welcoming to anyone, were met with conflict from some of the Gondorian men residing in the town. They did not like the elves decision to allow the Southrons accommodation inside the borders of Gondor, saying they should stay in Far Harad. After much talk, the elves saw no threat from the group of Southrons. They had lived peacefully in their own land and had no ties to any of the Haradrim who fought against the crowning of King Elessar. They simply wanted a chance at a better life. They were given permission by Lord Legolas, but not everyone agreed with this decision.

“If you let this group in then more will come and they may not be as peaceful,” the men argued.

“The Haradrim are known to have spies. What’s to say they aren’t still reporting to their clansmen,” others cautioned.

Legolas, Glandur and a few other counselors did their best to ease the worries of the residents, but there were those who would not concede. These difficult men formed their own group and decided to campaign against Legolas’ decision. This led to the occasional disputes, but was controllable so far.

Meanwhile, Legolas was being called away from his home more often as an ambassador for his elven community. He had done this before, but never on the scale that he was called upon now. When he traveled, Glandur took temporary rule of North Ithilien, but that meant his job as Captain of the Ithilien Guard was not being overseen. This was never a problem before, but with Legolas traveling further away for longer periods of time it was difficult on Glandur and he called a meeting with Legolas.

“I am finding it very challenging when I must alternate between the two,” he said pleading his case. “My troops suffer when it takes longer for decisions to come to them. And I know the foremost importance of looking after the city.”

“I understand your concern, Glandur and I have been giving it some thought. I am prepared to offer you a promotion, Commander of Ithilien. You will take over some of my responsibilities permanently and will have full control when I am away. Any decisions will be solely up to you. You need not wait for a final accordance from me. You will have much more freedom than you do now. I have the utmost confidence in your judgment, Glandur. There is no one else I would trust with this position.” Legolas made the offer and waited for Glandur’s answer. “Someone will have to take over as Captain of the Guard, of course. If you would rather wait until you have thought it over, that is fine with me.”

“Actually, I believe I know who I would promote to replace me, if you agree,” Glandur stated.

Legolas already knew who Glandur spoke of. “And are you sure he is ready?”

Glandur explained. “He has lead his own battalion for a while now with no incidents, no complaints.” He stopped and smiled as he laughed. “And no deaths.”

Legolas nodded and smiled in return. “Well, that is good to know.” Legolas stood up from his desk. “I agree wholeheartedly. Why don’t you send for him so we can give him the good news.”

* * *

Feredir had just returned from his latest campaign with his men. They were at the city barracks, returning their uniforms and dressing in their civilian clothes, when a messenger rushed up to the elf.

“A message from the Captain, sir,” the young boy announced, handing Feredir a folded parchment.

Horphen was next to him, finishing with the last button on his shirt. He looked closely at the letter. “Well, it’s not sealed. It cannot be too important.”

“If it’s from the Captain, it’s always important. What do you think this is about?” Feredir asked his friend before unfolding the note.

“I haven’t the slightest--,” he started but cut himself off. “Oh no, you don’t think this is about that goblin we came across a few weeks back.”

Feredir looked to his left then to his right. No one had heard Horphen. “Hush up about that. No one knows but us. No one else was there.”

Horphen shook his head. “We’re supposed to bring them in for questioning. I told you not to shoot him.”

“I wasn’t trying to kill him, only maim him. It’s his own fault he died. He moved just as I loosed my arrow.”

The two friends argued back and forth, mumbling to each other so no one would hear. “Besides,” Feredir added. “If this is what it’s about, you would have received one of these too.” He lifted the letter to Horphen, who snatched it from Feredir unexpectedly. “Hey.”

“Well, we’ll never know if one of us doesn’t read it,” Horphen complained and started to unfold the note.

Feredir was quicker and grabbed it back, opened it and read silently. He ran his fingers through his thick black mane of hair and sighed heavily. One of Feredir’s battle mates passed by, nodding. Feredir returned the greeting and looked back to Horphen. “I think it is about that.”

“It can’t be,” Horphen insisted. “There wasn’t anyone around.”

Feredir looked to the ellon who just walked by at the exact moment he read the letter. “I’m beginning to have my suspicions.”

“What’s it say then,” Horphen asked anxiously.

“I am to meet the Captain and Lord Legolas . . . at his palace office, not Glandur’s.”

Horphen slapped his hand to his forehead, then ran it down the length of his face. “Oh no.”

Feredir tucked the letter into his shirt pocket, finished buckling his belt and put on his boots as he looked at the barracks door. “Well, I may be put back in the ranks with you or I’m going back to guard duty.” He made his way to the door and left.

* * *

Feredir arrived at the palace and entered the main doors. He spoke to the guards and one of them escorted the dark elf to Legolas’ office. The tall blond guard opened the door and Feredir walked in, head held high and ready for whatever punishment he would endure this time. “Lord Legolas, Captain Glandur,” he addressed them, placing his hand over his heart and bowing properly.

Glandur and Legolas approached Feredir. Separately they looked stern and unmoving, but together they appeared to be quite sovereign. Feredir swallowed hard and waited.

Glandur spoke first. “Feredir, you have proven yourself to be worthy of the position that I assigned. You have shown yourself capable and trustworthy with greatly increased responsibilies and you have exceeded my expectations.”

He paused and Feredir thought the Glandur was finished. “Thank you, Captain.”

“However,” Glandur continued.

Feredir’s stomach cringed at that blasted word. That’s it, they know, he said to himself. Well, no better time than now to defend his actions. “Captain, if this is about the goblin then please allow me to explain.”

Glandur and Legolas turned their heads to face each other simultaneously. Glandur was curious to know about this goblin Feredir spoke of while Legolas tried as he might to contain himself from laughing. Glandur turned back to Feredir, head cocked as one eyebrow rose skeptically. “A goblin?”

“This is not . . . about . . . the other day?” Feredir said slowly, as if Glandur would fill in the rest of the sentence.

Glandur glanced at Legolas. “My lord, have you been informed of a mishap with a goblin recently?”

“No, I’m afraid I have heard no such news from the borders. Perhaps Feredir would care to explain.” Legolas was trying very hard not to burst into laughter, but he followed Glandur’s lead as they teased the apprehensive ellon.

Feredir ran his hand over his hair, as he always did when he was caught in a scheme. “Oh, um . . . did I say goblin?” He smiled and laughed nervously.

Glandur closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose. Of all the times to screw up, Glandur groaned to himself. Legolas just smiled, unable to control himself anymore, and patted the Captain on the back. “Allow me the honors.”

Glandur held his hand out towards Feredir while still holding his head as if the most ridiculous headache suddenly struck him. Legolas approached Feredir and the young elf came to attention. “Despite the . . . goblin incident.” He paused and turned back to Glandur. “Which I am sure the Commander will undoubtedly get to the bottom of.” Legolas faced Feredir once more.

Feredir tilted his head. “Commander?”

“Yes, I have promoted your Captain to Commander, which is why you were called here. Feredir, we need someone to take over Glandur’s position as Captain and after careful consideration, we believe you are qualified for this duty.” He stopped to let Feredir absorb the information. “We would like to promote you to Captain of the Ithilien Guard. You will oversee all military command, make important decisions and arrange the troops as you see fit.”

A smile slowly spread across Feredir’s face. “I would be honored to accept this position, my lord. This is what I have worked for since first becoming a soldier and to know that you are allowing me this opportunity is . . . well it is . . .” Feredir was at a loss for words.

“You are very deserving of this, Feredir,” Legolas continued. “You have all the right qualities and you represent Eryn Lasgalen with valor.”

“Thank you, Lord Legolas.” Feredir turned his attention to Glandur, who was now standing next to Legolas. “When shall I report for my new duties, Commander?”

“We will start making the transfer within the week,” Glandur answered. “At that time, we’ll discuss living arrangements as well.”

“Living arrangements?” Feredir asked.

“Of course. You will need to live close to the Captain’s quarter. There are several homes available in the eastern district, which I believe you and Terrwyn will find quite agreeable.” Glandur noticed Feredir’s concern. “Is there a problem?”

“No Commander, it’s . . . well, I have arranged for a talan to be built in the new section and it is almost complete. It is . . . it was supposed to be a surprise for Terrwyn.” Feredir said disappointedly.

“I’m sorry, Feredir, but the Captain must live close to his base. You will be called upon quite regularly.”

Feredir looked Glandur squarely in the eye. “My duty is to Ithilien. Perhaps I will find someone else to take over the talan.”

“I think you should keep it for now. Even a Captain needs a reprieve and the new tree colony will be a good place for you and Terrwyn to go and relax during those times,” Legolas added.

“Thank you, my lord. I believe I will do that.”

“You are free to go,” Glandur said. “But first, who else knows something about a goblin?”

“Horphen, sir,” Feredir answered, hoping Glandur would not want details.

“Horphen, of course. You two are inseparable when it comes to mischief. I suggest you make no mention of this to anyone else and all will be forgotten.”

“Yes, Commander,” Feredir answered before he left Legolas’ office.

After Feredir was gone, Glandur looked to Legolas and shook his head. “Some things will never change.”

Legolas laughed. “Let’s hope not. At least we are rid of one more goblin.”

“Ai,” Glandur sighed.

* * *

Terrwyn was at the healing house finishing with her preparations and refilling the empty medicine jars. Limil was off visiting friends and Curuven had gone to place an order at the apothecary, leaving Terrwyn in charge. It was a beautiful day and she thought she’d do a little gardening since there were no patients to tend. The last of the summer blooms were spent and needed to be weeded out from the early fall plants. She loved working in the garden out back. It was private and quiet, a very peaceful place. A path ran along behind the healing house, which was in a row with other houses and businesses. Every so often, someone would walk by and it was fun to eavesdrop on their conversation as they passed. Terrwyn went undetected, safely hidden behind the tall hedges that surrounded the back yard. If she stood on her tiptoes, she could just see above the tall leafy green wall, as she was doing now.

Today, Feredir would return home from his duty at the border. She would never admit it to him, but she counted the seconds that ticked by as she waited for him. Sometimes Terrwyn felt like a love sick maid as her heart raced thinking he would arrive any moment. It was not the easiest thing to be a wife of a border guard, but she never complained. Feredir had a job to do and she would never get in the way of that. She had her own work to tend to, for that matter and told herself to stop looking for her elf and get to it. Just as she was about to lower her heels back to the soft grass, someone spoke into her ear.

“Spying are we?”

Terrwyn gasped and spun around. “Feredir, you scared me. I didn’t hear you.” Her adrenaline raced making her breathing rapid from the shock.

Feredir laughed, always taking pleasure in sneaking up on her. She may have elvish blood in her veins, but unlike the elves, she surprised easily. “I’m sorry, Naru,” he chortled. Walking up to the hedges, Feredir peeked over the top. Terrwyn noticed that he didn’t need to stand on his toes as she did. “So, who were you looking for?” he teased.

Terrwyn straightened her shirt and picked off a few leaves that had stuck in the material. “I wasn’t looking for anyone. I thought I heard someone was all.”

“So you weren’t looking for your husband who has been gone for a long time and wondering why he hasn’t returned yet?”

“Is that what you think I do while you’re away?” she asked accusingly with narrowed eyes. Feredir only smiled and covered his mouth as he tried to contain another laugh. “Where were you anyways? I know your battalion returned early this morning and I was beginning to wonder.” She cocked an eyebrow at him. He still had that smug smile upon his face. “And what in Mordor is so funny.”

“Can’t the Captain of the Ithilien Guard be in good humor?”

Terrwyn closed her eyes and shook her head with confusion. “What does Glandur have to do with any of this?”

Feredir captured her by the waist and pulled her close, looking deep into her bright green eyes. “I wasn’t talking about Glandur.”

Terrwyn looked from one silver iris to the other as what he was saying started to make sense. “You?”

“Is that so hard to believe?”

“Glandur has made you Captain of--.” A smile slowly spread upon her lips. “You are Captain.”

“Ah, now she understands,” he jested.

Terrwyn clasped her arms around his neck. “Oh Feredir. I . . . I just can’t believe it, a promotion and Captain,” she shrieked. “This is so wonderful. I’m just so happy and so proud of you.”

“I was surprised to find out too, Naru. It was completely unexpected.”

“And what of Glandur? Why has he--?” She stopped and gasped. “Oh no, don’t tell me he and Antien have decided to sail.” Her voice was tinged with worry.

“No not at all. Actually, Lord Legolas has made Glandur Commander and I was chosen to fill his position.”

Terrwyn hugged him again, burying her face in his shoulder. “There couldn’t be better news.” She stood back and looked at Feredir. “What does this mean though? Will you be away more?”

“It means no more tours at the border. It means that I will be home every night because we will live close to the Captain’s quarter.” He waited for her response.

“A home? We will have a home of our own?” she said excitedly.

“Yes, a home, a place to call our own for you to do with as you please,” he answered. “You’ll have to walk to the healing house now, instead of just a quick flight of stairs.”

“I don’t care about that,” she laughed. “Curuven and Limil’s home was only temporary.” She looked up to the set of second story windows with the yellow curtains. “Though I will miss living here a bit. This was the first place where I felt safe in Ithilien and where we met and . . .” She ran her finger along the white tree of his uniform. “And where we first made love,” she smiled shyly.

Feredir cupped her face in his hands and kissed her slowly, then looked to her eyes. “Well, we will just have to start a list of firsts in our new home.”

“So when do we move and when shall we look for our new home?” she asked.

“Well, we can start within the week, but . . .” He stopped and tucked a stray red hair behind her ear. “There is a house that I have always seen on my way to the Captain’s building. I don’t know what it is about the place that grabs my attention, but I always thought that it would be a perfect place to live. And after I was given the good news, I took it upon myself to see if it was available and it is. I took the money I was saving and offered it to the landowner. He agreed upon the price and it is ours now.”

“You bought a home without even letting me see it first?” she said disappointedly.

“I know you, Naru and I know you will love this place. It is not too much that we will not be able to take care of it with our busy schedules. There is a living area and a kitchen, a porch out front and a spacious yard out back. There is room for gardens of your liking. Upstairs is a sitting room, a bathing room and two bedrooms. It is the perfect place to start our lives and to maybe one day start a family.” He finished explaining the house to her, hoping she was not mad at him.

Terrwyn smiled and kissed his cheek. “You do know me, Feredir and it sounds just lovely. I trust you and your judgment.” She nuzzled against his chest and whispered. “And I can hardly wait to make that life with you.”

“We could go upstairs and start on part of that life now if you want,” Feredir grinned against her ear as his hand covered her abdomen.

“Hmm, a tempting offer, Captain, but let’s wait until everything is official,” she whispered against his lips.

“Can we still go upstairs at least?” he begged.

“You never have to ask,” she uttered and took his hand, leading Feredir into the house and up the stairs to their bedroom.
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Journey Of A Butterfly