"So do all who live to see such times, but that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us. There are other forces at work in this world Frodo besides the will of evil. Bilbo was meant to find the Ring, in which case you also were meant to have it. And that is an encouraging thought."
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(9/18/03 4:38 am)
How it Began
The humans from Gondor rode with speed and grace as they passed the boarders of the Mirkwood forest. The company came to a slower trot; noticing the everwatchful eyes of the sentinals positioned about the trees and earth. Though almost invisible to the eye -- they were there.
Among this group of men, rode a woman. Anoron; Dunedain Ranger of the North. Known by most humans, for rare was it that a female take on such a role. Though it was hard at first, she learned as she went -- and is now quite skilled and confident. Her hand gently stroked and patted the neck of her black steed, Amcar, as they trotted on down the path.
Finally, they came to the large gates of Mirkwood. Wooden walls which stretched up, protecting their central city from harm and attack. Around it, archers were lined up. They did not speak, nor did they move when the company of Men approached. Slowly, causing a large creaking sound, the gates opened. Intaking a deep breath, Anoron nudged her horse on, and continued past the gates.
Their horses were taken. Led away by what seemed to be younger Elves, towards the stables. Though Anoron preferred to do it herself, she watched Amcar go with a small sigh and almost non-visable smile. She figured Elves were trustworthy.....though most did not care for humans. Why would they?....Most humans don't care for them. It was a vicious cycle.
The group was led to the high house of Thranduil, king of Mirkwood, and his Hall. Once ascending the stairs and reaching the large hall, they were led to a long table. Five seats to the right, five to the left, and a larger chair at the head of the table. Anoron guessed it was for Thranduil.
The humans were seated. And they waited. Not too long after, five Elves approached the table. Anoron watched as their golden hair cascaded down their clothed backs; all dressed in the traditional earthly tones of the Mirkwood Elves.
¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤
In me thou seest only the twilight remains of day,
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
The image of death that envelops all in rest.
Legolas Greenleaf, son of the Elven King Thranduil of Greenwood the Great, watched out the window as the men of Gondor rode forth. A council was set by his father, and he was to attend. He had to, ever since he came of age. It was a good change for the elves, for it was rare not of their own kin entered. How would they react? Sighing, The prince stood and turned to his father. "The men of Gondor have arrived. They shall be in the Council before us..."
"Yes my son...I know." Thranduil chuckled as he straightened the long dark robe. "Come..." Then side by side, father and son walked out of the chambers, which were his father's, and Legolas had not wanted to be there; seeing as his father always made him dress in things he would not perfer.
As the two entered, Legolas's eyes roamed the council. Sure enough, all the men that came from Gondor were seated along with the other Elves. Clearing his throat, Legolas took his seat beside his father, and his father sat in the high chair. Long slender hands folded neatly in his lap, as the dark green velvet tunic shimmered in the light it caught from the window.
As the elf looked around, he noticed a woman with them. How odd...he thought. For a Woman to be a Ranger? Indeed she was, but Legolas said nothing, He merely sat there attentive, and listened to his father's strong and proud voice.
"Elves of Mirkwood....Men of Gondor...welcome to Greenwood the Great. As you know I am the lord Thranduil, and it has been arranged that I set such a council to discuss affairs for our races...." The king's booming voice echoed through out the Council Room.
'Let a ploughman plough, but choose an otter for swimming, and for running light over grass and leaf, or over snow...an Elf.'
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(9/18/03 4:59 am)
Re: How it Began
Anoron looked to Thranduil, and his son as they entered and sat down. Great... She thought. Royalty. The last thing she wanted was high Elves speaking to them in condescending manners.
Lord Thranduil, A man said, standing. He was their representitive, Garîn. We come from Gondor, bringing words from our Advisors to you. For too long has there been ill blood between our races. Your kin come to our city, expecting hospitality, and instead are met with hostility. Our kin, travel past your woods, or those of other Elves -- and are met with much of the same. Last week, two men were given subject to "game" -- when unseen Elves shot arrows at them, purposely missing for sport.
He cleared his voice slightly. Anoron had heard about that. Garîn was one of the men who was shot at. It had made him slightly more bitter towards the Elves, but he held it in well.
Our purpose here is to agree on some kind of truce. A compromise. He stated strongly. Either Elves stay at least fifty yards from Minas Tirith at all times, and we do the same to your wood.....or we have a bigger problem at hand.
Anoron sighed. Good. No ill focused words.
I see little reason WHY Elves need to venture into homes of men anyway..... Garîn slipped in, sitting down.
She closed her eyes and sighed deeply. That statement would no doubt be a mistake.
¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤
In me thou seest only the twilight remains of day,
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
The image of death that envelops all in rest.
The elves of Mirkwood shifted in their seats and anger began to rise at such a comment. Legolas's eyes narrowed slightly, but he remained silent. Make hard glares were thrown at the man's way for that rude comment. Thranduil stood, he was very easily Tempered. "Then perhaps we shall come to that. No may may set foot in the woods of Greenwood the Great, save on offical affairs. Fifty yards if fair enough...but WHY you were traveling through the woods I cannot say. Too long have we been attacked not only by humans, but orcs, goblins, and the dreaded spiders, one less opponent is welcomed..."
Legolas sighed and shook his head. Standing He put a hand on his father's shoulder. "Such things m'lord should be said in private..." He whispered into his father's ear. Nodding, Thranduil sat down once more. Legolas still stood, and his icy blue eyes scanned the council. Elves glaring atmen, and men glaring at elves. This would not do. At some point and time, the men would need the elves, and elves would need the men. "I propose a truce..." He began. "The elves have fought with men for so many years..and not they come to a haunt and resent each other? How absurd is this? There are common enemies out in this world, that we should not be bickering amongst ourself. Come now Gentlemen, and ladies," Motioning to Anoron. He had watched her closely. SHe was not amused by the comment made by her kin as the other men were. "Surely the lady knows some truth I hold..."
He smiled to Anoron and continued. "At some point in our lives...men will need the aid of the elves, and the elves will need men. Now I prpose not to stay away from each's realm, but to have a kinship between the races...what say you? Can we not pardon such from both parties, and start anew as we have done before?"
'Let a ploughman plough, but choose an otter for swimming, and for running light over grass and leaf, or over snow...an Elf.'
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(9/18/03 12:57 pm)
Re: How it Began
What makes you Elves so untrusting of humans? Garîn asked, scoffing.
Anoron tilted her head slightly. What makes we humans so untrusting of Elves? She asked back to him. He did not answer. True, they probably though the same way about humans as they did about Elves.
Both are unknown to the other; each considered a threat. Both races have the capability of being too powerful, or not powerful enough. She said, gazing to each Elf and Man. We are taught as children to fear and destory things that are different. What we don't understand....both races.
Green eyes focused on the Elves. I'm sure you have all had experiences with Men, that suggest the majority of us are wicked and weak. Yet sadly, I have had many experiences with Elves that I would care not to think of again. The element of fear is driven into us....
Her eyes drifted to the son of Thranduil for a moment. 'Tis a shame only few can see past the differences....so therefore, I am in favor of this truce. There is no reason to vote against it. Unless, you can find fault?....
Anoron's eyes rested on Garîn and those in her company. Most of them looked away and said nothing. Though a few looked as though they may wish to speak out -- they kept their tongue's silent.
¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤
In me thou seest only the twilight remains of day,
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
The image of death that envelops all in rest.
Re: How it Began
Legolas nodded. She spoke the truth. "With my father's permission...I would like to have this truce into effect as soon as it can be done. Father? Do you agree?" He then turned to his stern father. His face was not what he had hoped for...not Thranduil nodded.
"In favor of this truce we have yet to set into motion...we shall hold a feast in your honors. Unless you have anything else to say, speak not or forever hold thy tongue and keep the peace." All was silent. "Good Then. This council has decided...not I must retire...I shall see thee all hopeful at the feast in a few hours." ANd with that, Thranduil stood, waved them off, and walked out of the room.
Legolas sighed and turned his blue eyes to Anoron's green orbs. They were very inchanting--no! He must not think of such, She was mortal, and he elf kind. it would not work. Shrugging it off, He began to converse with another elf as the two exited. He had no time for silly games, and besides, life kept him inside most of the time...it mattered not.
'Let a ploughman plough, but choose an otter for swimming, and for running light over grass and leaf, or over snow...an Elf.'
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(9/18/03 4:29 pm)
Re: How it Began
Anoron sighed and a small smile came to her lips. Good. It was out of the way. At least there would be peace for a while -- until one side or the other broke the truce, and they went back to fear and loathing.
Two Elves came, and motioned for the Humans to follow. They would be given rooms. Anoron was led to the East wing of the guest home. Once shown her room, the she-ranger thanked the Elf and closed the door. Going to the closet, she opened the doors. A line of elven dresses were there -- Anoron guessed it was for her to wear. Moving over to the large bed, she flopped down and sighed. At least she could get in some rest before the celebration.
¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤
In me thou seest only the twilight remains of day,
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
The image of death that envelops all in rest.
Re: How it Began
Legolas sat in the large library, a book in hand. Blue eyes skimmed the words, absorbing them. The place was quiet. Vey quiet. It was very relaxing and peacful to him. Legolas enjoyed such a place, where he could forget his life for a moment, and be elsewhee at the same time. He turned the page and smiled.
A few hours until the celebration..
'Let a ploughman plough, but choose an otter for swimming, and for running light over grass and leaf, or over snow...an Elf.'
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(9/18/03 4:54 pm)
Re: How it Began
The last clasp of her dress did up and Anoron looked to herself in the mirror. A dark, deep green dress she had pulled out of the closet. The neck swooped down low. It fit snuggly around her torso, and was almost too small. Damn Elves were so skinny. Around the waist, the dress belled out slightly.
Pulling her hair back into a loose bun, a few stray curls hung about her face and shoulders. Her dark hair never cooperated. Though as she turned and headed out the door, a little butterfly began to grow in her stomach. She would be the only human female. Surely not half as lovely as those Elven maidens who were sure to attend. Her plain dark dress and her pulled back, wild hair.
Flashing green eyes danced around the hall and windows. So beautiful were these halls. This lifestyle. The evening sky was painted with purple and blue colours, which indicated night was near. Pink still stripped in the sky, giving it luminous textures. The wind was low and calming, and the clouds were few; clear. It was a beautiful night.
Tourches were lit along the path towards the home of Thranduil. Elves filed down the path in pairs; dressed in fine elven gowns and garb. Others were just arriving my horse. It was a very formal engagement indeed.
Upon reaching the bottom of the stairs, to the path which led to the Great Hall, Anoron was met with a young Elven male. An escort, for those ladies without one. She was escorted down the cleared path, rose petals boardering it, and beautiful scents in the air.
As they reached the stairs for the grand hall where the celebration was to be held, Anoron was released by the Elf. He nodded to her politely, and went back to escort another maiden. She was on her own. She knew once she got into the hall, at least she would be able to find Garîn and other humans. So, alone and holding her dress up as not to trip on it, Anoron ascended the stairs.
¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤
In me thou seest only the twilight remains of day,
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
The image of death that envelops all in rest.
Re: How it Began"My good people!" Thranduil's voice rang out as all went silent. "I am pleased to see you all! Food and refreshmen are on the tables. On with the merry making!" He clapped his hands, and the mucis rang out, and dancing commensed.
Legolas bowed to an elf maiden as the song ended, and the dance slowed. SHe giggled and walked off. Chuckling, Legolas turned and walked back towards the stairs, and suddenly he saw Anoron. He had not known her name. What was it? He wondered. Smiling, Legolas walked up to her and tapped her on teh shoulder lightly.
"Good evening my lady...I did not catch your name at the council earlier...what is it again?" His Silver blue tunic matched his eyes, and dark blue leggings claded his long land runnerlike legs. A gentle and friendly smile upon his face.
'Let a ploughman plough, but choose an otter for swimming, and for running light over grass and leaf, or over snow...an Elf.'
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(9/18/03 5:10 pm)
Re: How it Began
Anoron gave a slightly nervous, but warm none the less, smile in return to the Elf. Anoron...my lord.
She nodded her head to him respectfull. And you are the son of Thranduil?....Legolas?..... She asked. She was sure she'd heard his name spoken before, though could not be certain if it was he. But Anoron knew she would be frightfully embarrassed should she be speaking to the wrong Elf. The last thing she needed on a night like this was humiliation. Smiling, she pushed it from her mind.
¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤
In me thou seest only the twilight remains of day,
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
The image of death that envelops all in rest.
"Indeed Lady Anoron..." Legolas took her hand and kissed it softly. Releasing her hand and looking back at her, he smiled again. "Would you like to dance? If you do not want to...it is fine..." Though secretly he wanted to dance with her. SHe was beautiful, and something else drew him to her...he was awed at her appearance.
His hand was offered to her, waiting for her decision.
'Let a ploughman plough, but choose an otter for swimming, and for running light over grass and leaf, or over snow...an Elf.'
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(9/18/03 5:27 pm)
Re: How it Began
Anoron's smile grew slightly. A dance?....She'd not done so in a long time. But perhaps it might be nice to try again. Rangers had seldom opportunity to attend balls or celebrations; wear such fine clothing and mingle with the high class of society -- be it Elven or Human.
Taking his hand, Legolas led them onto the dance floor. His hand rested on her waist, while the other grasped her hand. Her free hand rested on his shoulder. Slowly, they danced to the music. Keeping time and seemingly gliding across the floor. Legolas was excellent at keeping time. But Anoron figured he must attend a lot of these.
She was grateful for his polite nature. But a hand on her shoulder stopped their dancing. Garîn stood behind Anoron. His eyes rested uneasily on Legolas for a moment, before looking back to his female companion.
May I cut in? He asked. A slight edge to his voice.
¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤
In me thou seest only the twilight remains of day,
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
The image of death that envelops all in rest.
Re: How it Began
Legolas arched a brow, and frowned slightly, but nodded and releasded his hold on her. Bowing politely to her he smiled. "Thank you for the dance my lady..." And with that, Legolas began to walk off of the dace floor, but soon another maiden offered, and he could not refuse. As a prince, it was custom to dance with any maiden who ask, though Legolas grew tired of it, he head to be polite.
As the elf danced with teh elven maiden, oft would his gaze rest on Anoron, and then to Garin not all kindly. That man was unnerving, and seemed to not like him....he kept a sercret eye on the man.
'Let a ploughman plough, but choose an otter for swimming, and for running light over grass and leaf, or over snow...an Elf.'
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(9/18/03 5:37 pm)
Re: How it Began
After the dance, Garîn led her to their table. They sat and they dined on the fine Elivsh food. It was all very good. But for some reason, she did not feel much like eating. Though on the other hand, she'd had a fair amount of wine. Damn, these Elves knew wine.
Her head felt lighter now. Her smile wider and she foudn herself giggling more. But Anoron knew the signs. It was soon after that she excused herself from the table and stood. While the others continued on, Elves and Men, enjoying themselves -- Anoron slowly made her way out of the hall, and to the grand stairs which led back to the path.
¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤
In me thou seest only the twilight remains of day,
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
The image of death that envelops all in rest.
Re: How it Began
After that last dance, Legolas escused himself and walked out of the room. He roamed the halls until he came to the study wing. His eyes scanned the books, and pulled out one. The tale of Luithen and Beren. It was a favorite of his, Smiling, for he too had quite a good amount of the elven wine, and sat down in a chair. Slowly, he began to read.
Rather it was the alcohol or his own thoughts, Legolas thought of Anoron..
'Let a ploughman plough, but choose an otter for swimming, and for running light over grass and leaf, or over snow...an Elf.'
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(9/18/03 5:51 pm)
Re: How it Began
On her way to the stairs, Anoron passed by the study. But upon walking by....she stopped. Turning, she moved back in front of the open door and looked in. There was Legolas -- sitting and reading a book. Letting out a giggle she laughed and leaned against the doorframe.
In her hand, she still held a wineglass. Yooooou....are supposed to be at the celebration.... She said; with a sly grin. The goblet reached her lips and she drained the last of her wine.
¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤
In me thou seest only the twilight remains of day,
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
The image of death that envelops all in rest.
Re: How it Began
Legolas looked up from hsi book and smiled. "Yes...but I grew bored..and you...? it was for you....should you not be there as well?" Setting the book down, He smiled adn stood, walking over to her casually and leaning on the oppsite side of teh door frame, watching her with icy blue eyes.
"What do you say we go for a walk...?" Legolas smiled slyly and took her hand in his. Taking the goblet and setting it on the table. The wine, about four glasses worth was having an effect on him.
'Let a ploughman plough, but choose an otter for swimming, and for running light over grass and leaf, or over snow...an Elf.'
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(9/18/03 5:59 pm)
Re: How it Began
Anoron giggled almost uncontrollably, and followed him out. Stumbling a few times, but keeping her balance, they walked outside and down the stairs; getting to the path.
Your hair is so smooth.... She said, smiling and looking at his blone hair. Mine is very full of tangles....and curls....and tangles.... Anoron put a hand to her mouth to keep from laughing so much. I apologise, Legolas. I am a little....drunk...I believe.
The sky was now dark and clear; moon and stars shining brightly down on the Elf and Human.
¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤
In me thou seest only the twilight remains of day,
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
The image of death that envelops all in rest.
Re: How it Began
Legolas wrapped his arm around her waist, and pulled her close to him. "And your skin...so soft like the finest cloth in all of Middle Earth..." He ginned as he stopped her to face him. "As I do believe...I am a bit whoozy myself...perhaps from the wine..." Legoals chucled and ran his ahdns down ehr arms, and rested on her waist.
"You are so beautiful Anoron....." And without thinking, from the wine no doubt, he pressed his lips to hers. He pulled her close to him.
'Let a ploughman plough, but choose an otter for swimming, and for running light over grass and leaf, or over snow...an Elf.'
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(9/19/03 4:18 am)
Re: How it Began
Anoron aimlessly indulged the kiss for a moment, before pulling back and stumbling a bit. "Now now, Master Elf!..." She said, her words slurring a little. "We cannot have any of...THAT....I am an Elf, and you are a human, and it's not....proper...."
But slowly, she lowered herself to the ground giggling, and sat on the thick, cool grass. Anoron reached back and undid the loose bun in her hair -- allowing her dark curls to cascade down her back. "Now....where am I?" He asked, tilting her head slightly.
¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤
In me thou seest only the twilight remains of day,
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
The image of death that envelops all in rest.
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