My name: Estelbain 
My email address: estelbain@hotmail.com
Disclaimer: I am not in any way related or involved with New Line Cinema or the Tolkien family. I don't know any of them and I do not own any characters mentioned in the books "The Fellowship of the Ring", "The Two Towers", "The Return of the King" or their associated movies. I do claim ownership to Estelbain, Oivorondaer, and any other characters that appear in here and that are not the property of New Line Cinema. If you wish to use any of my characters for fan fiction etc. please ask me. I give credit to the authors for any characters I borrow from other fan fictions. I will say to whom they belong in the book using brackets in the story. 
Note from the author: This is my first fan fiction and I would love some feedback, my email address is at the top. I know it's long and it gets better as it goes along, I promise. 
Also I know I've made a ton of mistakes in this. I have a spelling problem and also this isn't for school so its not meant to be perfect. If you don't like what you read then I ask you not read it. 
In chapter 1-3 I changed Marta's name to Oivorondaer, I will changed it in the other chapter when I get a chance. 
Rating: P-13 (in the later chapters it gets interesting)
Genre: Romance/drama with a bit of humor thrown in for good measure. 
Summary: Estelbain is the eldest daughter of Lord Elrond and Lady Celebrain, granddaughter of Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn. Legolas is the son of King Thranduil, and prince of Greenwood, the great. When the two fall in love after an ill plotted kidnapping it seems as if life is all rosy. Yet all is not so. With the departure of Lady Celebrain, the stubbornness of Lord Elrond, and the darkening times of Middle Earth, the young lovers find themselves braving it all in the subsiding golden dusk of their fading world.  
Love's Time Well Spent:
The Golden Dusk Subsides
This is the story of Middle Earth, the Red book. You may have read the Red Book Mr. J.R.R Tolkien found. That one, I'm afraid, was terribly shortened. For you see, the original book Mr. Baggins wrote was later lost and only a few copies survived. Master Took made a copy of this book in full. When he retired to Gondor, he took it with him and it was called the Thane's copy. The men of Gondor kept it in their white tower with the rest of their history. It was passed down, generation to generation, then somehow found its way into a trunk in my attic (like most mysterious old things). When I first came upon it, I didn't know what to make of it. I have quite enjoyed Mr. Tolkien's books more than once, and I thought these to be alike in nature, but as I read I realized that these were a more complete version. It had all of the things in Mr. Tolkien's books and then some, like the complete history of almost every family in the Shire, (this is very tedious reading, and best left to the Hobbits, so I left it out). More importantly, it contained the history of Estelbain and Legolas, which was not included in Mr. Tolkien book. Since I’m sure you have all read the Red Book Mr. Tolkien found, I have written only the new part and parts in which the two copies overlap.
Chapter 7
The next morning Legolas awoke to the smell of Estelbain's hair and Lothlorien's wonderfully clean air. He tried to rouse himself in an attempt to remember where he was, but in the end he simply made content to hold Estelbain and go back to sleep. 
Sometime before lunch, Queen Galadriel came in to wake them. 
"All right you two, it's almost lunch and not even I can keep Oivorondaer out of here much longer. Arwen has been up for an hour at least," the queen said with a chuckle. 
Light came flooding into Estelbain's sleepy eyes and she opened them; then quickly closed them, hiding her face in Legolas' chest. 
"Yes my queen," Legolas mumbled. He made a move to sit up but fell back down again. 
"Oh grandmother dearest, the hour can not be so late. Come back later I beg you!" Estelbain said, though it was muffled slightly by Legolas' tunic, which her face was still buried in. 
"You will get up or I will call the guard and have them drag you both out of bed." Lord Celeborn appeared next to his wife, his arms crossed and a solemn look on his face, yet his eyes betrayed him. 
"A threat from the great Lord Celeborn is rarely ideal," Legolas remarked. He stood up and helped Estelbain to her feet. They were quite a sight. For both had slept in their clothing so now it was crinkled and wrinkled. Estelbain had also neglected to plait her hair, and it was now unruly and frizzy.
"It looks as if Oivorondaer has her work cut out for her. Estelbain and Legolas I suggest you go to your talan." Queen Galadriel said, looking rather regal, but then it could just have been the sad state the others were in! 
After having a bath and enduring Oivorondaer lecture to her about 'no matter how tired she may be, a princess must always look after herself'. Oivorondaer tugged at the knots that now infested Estelbain's golden hair. It seemed that Oivorondaer's usually gentle hands pulled ever-so-slightly harder. But Estelbain thought it in her best interest not to mention it. When her hair was brushed, Estelbain put on a simple white dress with only a little beadwork, a hint of sky blue on the collar, the hem of her sleeve, and in a ring around the bottom of the skirt. 
Then she and Arwen made their way to where they were to have lunch. Lunch itself was a nice meal, eaten in peace and enjoyed by all. 
It was after lunch that Estelbain didn't find so pleasant. For the end of lunch brought a host of many advisors, who came and asked stupid questions for their precious records. 
Questions like, "Did your mother, Lady Celebrian, act differently before she left?" And, "When did the lady leave, what day, and at what time?" And so on and so forth. Near the end, Estelbain foraged an excuse and fled from the room. She ran into the forest where no one would see her cry. She ran until she could run no more, then she sat down next to one of the great trees of Lothlorien; resting her back on it as sobs wracked her slight body. 
Then something happened that Estelbain did not expect. The tree reached down and placed a comforting branch on her shoulder. (Now Estelbain could understand trees, and loved to listen to them sing, but this still startled her.) Then the kind tree asked, "Why are you crying, beautiful princess?" Its kindly voice seemed to resonate from deep inside its trunk.
Estelbain was touched by this tree's inquisitiveness and kindness, "My mother was poisoned by an Orc arrow, and now she has sailed from middle earth to the undying lands. My father has exiled my little sister and I because we remind him of our mother whom he loved dearly. Now my sister is both motherless and fatherless and looks to me to fill the gap. I don't know if I can be both a mother and a sister to 5 year old, my head has been abuzz trying to figure out what I'm to do. And then to add to it all, these horrible advisors asked me questions about my mother and I just couldn't take it anymore." Estelbain finished with a little sob.
Just then, Legolas ran up "There you are my dear I was worried about you," he said, sitting down next to Estelbain. He placed a loving arm around her then made a move for his bow when the tree moved its branch. "What in the…"
Estelbain smiled as the tree giggled and said, "It looks as though you have one good thing in your life."
"I guess I do," Estelbain answered her. 
Legolas just looked unbelieving it had never occurred to him that trees had a brain and as well has a heart. 
Estelbain looked at him and said, "Don't worry it’s something you have to be a women to understand." 
"If you say so my dear." Legolas answered, still bewildered; this forest was beginning to really creep him out. Everyone said that "Mirkwood" was a queer place, at least its trees didn't… never mind he thought, it's best not dwell on it. "Darling we must go. Your grandmother was worried about you, as was everyone else." Legolas said, helping Estelbain up, and then he began to lead her back to the city. 
Estelbain turned and waved good-bye to the tree and said, "Goodbye tree and thank you, may your leaves grow and fall for many more ages to come." It seemed to her an appropriate thing to say to a tree. Then she let Legolas lead her back to the city. But Estelbain still felt numb, like her brain was in overload so it just shut down. How she managed to get through the rest of the day amazed even her. 
Legolas looked over at Estelbain and saw the blank look on her face and in her eyes. 'Poor thing,' he thought, 'she has had no time to grieve, and maybe she should take it easy for a few days.' So, after dinner he asked her to go for a walk with him. 
Legolas decided to go to a little pond that he knew of deep in the forest. Estelbain walked beside him holding his hand and gazing off into space, deep in thought. When they arrived Legolas sat down and took off his shoes and rolled up his pant legs, letting his feet dangle over the water. Estelbain sat down and followed suit. After Legolas had put his arm around her he asked, "Are you feeling okay? You look a little overwhelmed." 
"Huh? Oh, I'm fine." Estelbain answered absentmindedly.
"No, you're not fine and I don't want you sailing away on me too!" Legolas said, aghast at the thought of losing Estelbain too. "I kind of know how you feel. I mean, when my mother left I was only 3 or 4. I mean, I don't really remember a lot of her other than she always seemed so tried. I guess I blame myself because the servants used to say that she had been that way since I was born. Then one day she wouldn't wake up for a long time. We waited for 3 days and then she finally woke up. Then, about month later, she sailed away. I remember one night right after she left. I couldn't sleep so I crept out to the kitchens to get some warm milk. When I arrived there, I heard the cook and some maid chatter on how I was like the great Feanor. And how I had no brothers and sisters because my mother put forth so much when she had me, that it used all her energy. When I came in, I scared the cook but swore I had heard nothing of what they had said. Even at that age, I put two and two together. I realized that it was my fault that mother had sailed away and had always been so tired. It was my fault that my father was so sad all the time and that the servants talked and some were even afraid for me. That I might wind up like Feanor. It was my fault, and there was nothing I could do." Legolas ended his face blank. 
He had never told anyone that, and now it felt good to get it off his chest, like some great weight had been lifted off his shoulders. 
"Oh Legolas, it's not your fault, it's no ones fault. It was meant to happen and it happened for a reason. No one can tell what Iluvatar and the rest of the Valar has in store for us, but in the end it will work out. For some things are so big we can see neither the beginning nor end," Estelbain said in an effort to comfort Legolas and herself.
He smiled "I know, but some times I can't help feeling that way." 
Estelbain nodded and lay her head upon Legolas' chest and let her mind wander as the sun was setting.
Legolas began thinking about what Lady Celebrian had told him. Then he started thinking how he had not had that horrible dream in a long time. Then he remembered how, the morning he awoke in the cave, Estelbain's voice had been the one in the dream. Then it hit him that his dream and what Lady Celebrian had said were about the same thing. Only now, he had found Estelbain and he could not only warn her, he could keep her safe. Legolas smiled at his new revelation and looked down at Estelbain, who was now dead to the world, slumbering peacefully, her head still resting on his chest. 'Good', he thought, 'This will do her good, and hopefully clear her mind a little'. He decided that they should head back before Oivorondaer had a search party sent out to find them. He slid his arms under Estelbain's legs and shoulders, and carried her home. Estelbain only stirred once but did not wake. Then Legolas went to her tree and left her to Oivorondaer. Then he went to his own chambers for a good, long sleep. 
The next morning, Legolas was awakened by one of Queen Galadriel's servants. He told him that the Lady of the Wood wished to see him as soon as possible, preferably before Lady Estelbain awoke. So Legolas quickly dressed and followed the servant to where to King Celeborn and Queen Galadriel stood waiting for him. 
"You may leave us," Queen Galadriel said, addressing the servant, who turned and left. 
Legolas bowed to both of them then asked, "You asked to see me?"
"Yes," the King said, looking intensely at him "Legolas I'd like to thank you for all you have done for Estelbain. It's been so hard on us all. Now under normal circumstances, I would sit down and discuss a marriage proposal with you and your father. But I'm afraid these are not normal circumstances, to say the least. It's not just the leaving of Lady Celebrian; a great storm is brewing. One that I think is best to weather before we do anything of this nature." 
"As you wish, my lord." Settling down, that thought had entered his mind once or twice he would admit, but it had always seemed a little father off. 
King Celeborn smiled. 'Youth', he thought, 'with all it simplicities'.
"Well, we also called you here to discuss your stay here in Lothlorien with Estelbain." Queen Galadriel said, smiling. 
'Ah, the truth comes out. 'She wants to make sure that her sweet innocent granddaughter is staying innocent. Well they don't have to worry about that', Legolas thought to himself smugly. 
Queen Galadriel smiled, for she, like Estelbain, possessed the power to read the thoughts of others at her own discretion. 
A servant entered the room and interrupted the conversation; "Princess Estelbain is awake and reading for breakfast."
"Then we'd better not keep her waiting." The queen said, smiling, for she knew all she needed to know.  
Legolas stayed for another 2 weeks, then at the request of his father, he retuned home.
500 years came and went while Estelbain and Arwen stayed in Lothlorien. Their father occasionally visited, but only stayed for a few days at a time. Legolas either traveled to Lothlorien or Estelbain went to Mirkwood every 5 months.  

Chapter 8
"Daddy," called a now 12-year-old Arwen as she ran to father.
"Oh, I missed you." Lord Elrond said, getting off his horse and picking up his daughter.
Legolas and Estelbain appeared hand in hand. A bright smile shone on Estelbain face. She walked quickly to her father. 
He embraced her lovingly, "My, you're getting so big!" Lord Elrond exclaimed, "Let's go see what's keeping your grandparents."
Lord Elrond walked on with Legolas and Estelbain following behind him still hand in hand. 
Estelbain was now 17 and Legolas 21. "He seems so happy, maybe we will finally return to Imladris!" Estelbain's voice echoed inside Legolas' mind. 
Legolas said nothing but only nodded and squeezed her hand. For he still found it a bit uncanny when she did that. 
Queen Galadriel stood on her balcony looking down at the party approaching. Lord Elrond had a smile on his face for once and Arwen looked quite happy to have her father back. Legolas, the poor thing, looked a bit nervous. He didn't know what Lord Elrond had in store for him. 'Estelbain has trained so much', thought Lady Galadriel. She is now more powerful than even I, and will be a wonderful queen.
Later that night, after a fine dinner and after almost everyone went to bed, Lord Elrond asked to see Legolas outside. 
"Lord Elrond," Legolas said, acknowledging him as he entered.
"Legolas, I asked you here today so we could talk, Elf to Elf. Now I would like to thank you for being there for my daughter while I was indisposed. But I think it is now time for you to return home to your father, and that we think no more of what has happened for the time being. I'm taking my daughters home the day after tomorrow." Lord Elrond said coldly. 
"Sir, if I may ask, what have you got against me? I've never done anything to offend you, your family, or your kingdom. Yet you seem to dislike me, and wish to keep me as far away from Estelbain as you can. I love her and she loves me. So I say this, not only for myself but for her as well, do not shut her up away from me, for it will do no good…" Legolas said, trying to be as respectful as possible.
Lord Elrond cut him off. "Don't make assumptions about my daughter, and don't tell me how to raise her. That’s the end of it. I've made my decision and it's final! I'll tell Estelbain in the morning and I it's think its best if you were gone by then." 
It was all Legolas could do to bow and leave. He went to his room and ordered a servant that was waiting for him to pack for him, while he went for a walk. 
As he walked, he decided that their love would find away and that he would leave tonight as soon he could. That way Estelbain couldn't follow him. It was the best he could think of now. He went back to his talan and put on his riding clothes, and sat down to write his note. After several attempts, this is what it said:  
My dearest Estelbain, 
Due to certain circumstances, I must leave. Please forgive me for not saying goodbye but I could not bear to face leaving you. I don't know when I will see you again, but I know it will be soon. With all the love my heart possesses, your protector and prince,
Legolas Prince of Mirkwood. 
Legolas crept to Estelbain's talan and walked silently into her room. He set the note on her nightstand and looked over at her on her bed of white silk. She seemed to glow with a light of her own; her face was so perfect and peaceful. He knew he could not leave with out a final kiss for he knew not when he would see her again. So he bent down and kissed her gently on the lips. Her eyes fluttered open at once. 
"Legolas, where are you going?" Estelbain asked, frightened. 
"Nowhere my dear," Legolas said searching for the words. 
"Don't lie to me, I have loved you to long; I see right through it." Estelbain said, turning Legolas' face so that he had to look at her. 
"I must return home to my people, I'm needed. But I will come to Imladris soon." Legolas said with a fake smile. 
"It's father, I have read his thoughts and I know he wishes you away, though his heart is so closely guarded I can't see why. Oh Legolas! You don't have to go. He can't do this I won't let him. I'll stay in Lothlorien till he comes to his senses…" Estelbain said, a tear slid down her pale cheek. 
"Shh." Legolas held his finger to her lips, "You must do as your father asks. We will find a way, I promise. Untill then I must return home. It will work out in the end, you'll see." Legolas said, drawing Estelbain to his chest. "But I ask one thing," he added." Anything," Estelbain said, looking up at him.
"Whenever you see a sunset or a sunrise, I want you to think of me and of this." Then Legolas reached down and kissed Estelbain sweetly on the lips. Drawing her close, Legolas savored the moments. They pulled apart just as the sun was rising outside the window of Estelbain's talan.
Then Legolas left, he didn't say good-bye or even look back. When he got outside, he found Lalantilalasse had his horse waiting for him. 
Estelbain rose and walked onto her balcony, watching as Legolas rode off into the sunrise. 
Right before he left, Legolas looked back and waved to Estelbain. 
Estelbain knew she must go back to bed and lie down. But she could not sleep. She knew the only thing that would have calmed her and he was riding away from her. So instead of sleep, she prepared for the battle that was sure to ensue. 
When Oivorondaer entered an hour later, she found Estelbain in a state of mock sleep. "Mistress, your father wishes to see you at once! You must wash and dress with great haste!" said the maid. Estelbain opened her eyes "Hum? Yes, of course." Then she rose out of bed and let Oivorondaer wash and dress her like she was some pretty doll, not thinking at all. 
Thirty minutes later, Estelbain sat down to breakfast with her father.
"Estelbain, I'm afraid I have some bad news for you, Legolas left this morning, and under the circumstances I think it's best not to see him again." Lord Elrond said coldly. 
"As you wish my father," Estelbain said, the words she had practiced for so long in bed. She had decided that for now she would go along with her father and that silent disobedience would be the best route. She knew she was in no position for open war. So she would let him think he held all the cards. Men, He-Elves, and small children behave best when they think they are in control!
"Now for some better news, we leave for Imladris tomorrow morning!" Lord Elrond said, truly cheerful for once. 
"Father, I seem to have lost my appetite and I feel it best that I retire to my rooms to administer the packing of my things." Estelbain murmured unemotionally. 
"Surely Oivorondaer can manage it just this once. I've not sat and talked with you for so long." Lord Elrond said still smiling.
"As you wish it father." Estelbain said in the same monotone as before. 

 
<If you want to find out what happens with Legolas and Estelbain then please review this story>
Chapter 9
Two hundred years went by, with Estelbain seeing Legolas only when she could get away to Lothlorien. Then her grandparents would send word to Legolas and they would arrange a meeting of some sort. It was a lonely time for both Legolas and Estelbain. 
Then, one day a baby was brought to Lord Elrond's house. His name was Aragorn. His mother had sought refuge, for the baby's father had perished and much evil hunted this little babe.
* * * * * 
A baby's cry sounded at the doorway along with a frantic pounding. Estelbain was nearby and went to see what was amiss. The guards opened the door and just barely caught the woman that fell in with the wind. Estelbain saw she carried a bundle, which she removed from the woman before taking control of the scene. "Quick, take her to the healers apartments and you, in the corner, send for my father at once!" Then she unwrapped the bundle to find a baby staring up at her. The baby began to cry "Oh you poor thing. Send to the kitchens, tell them to heat some milk, and I will also need some way to give it to a baby. Now let's go find your mother." Estelbain and baby Aragorn set off to the healers' house. 
When they arrived, they found Lord Elrond there tending to the woman.
"Who is she?" Estelbain said, looking at the woman's obviously not pointy ears. 
"She is Gilraen of the Dunedain. That is her son, Aragorn son of Arathorn II. 
"Then this is Isildur's heir?" Estelbain asked, looking down at the babe before her. 
"Yes, but for now we best not tell anyone, for his father was just slain and many evil things now wish to destroy Gondor's rightful king!" Lord Elrond said gravely. 
Estelbain looked down at the woman lying on the bed. She didn't seem to have any major cuts, just a couple of bruises. But it was easy to see she was exhausted, so Estelbain called a to servant "Go and fetch a couple of bowls of hot water and some athelas plant. And you," she said, turning to a different servant, "please go and see what delays the milk for this babe, and bring a cloth."
Poor thing, he looked so pale and hungry. "Father if you don't need me, I will take this little one and try and find him some dinner." Estelbain said.
"Of course, the poor things look as though they both have had quite the ordeal!'
In the kitchens, Estelbain found warm milk, but getting the baby to drink was a problem. For elves don't get sick, so babies always have their mothers to care to for them. Thankfully Imladris was known for being open to weary travelers, so they kept a bit of everything and had a little bottle for just the occasion. Aragorn took to the bottle well and was strong baby. Yet he awoke something even stronger in Estelbain's heart, maternal instincts. 
* * * *
As the days went by both mother and son grew stronger. And it was decided that they would stay and become the ward of Lord Elrond. Lord Elrond bestowed a new name on the babe, "Estel" for he was the hope of all. All knowledge of his past and ancestors were to be hidden from him until he was of a mature age. 
* * * * *
Estelbain decided that her relationship with Legolas could no longer be hidden. She became aware of herself slipping more often into daydreams of Legolas. 
Lord Elrond knew something was amiss, for his daughter was becoming more and more dreamy. He decided that it was time for Estelbain to marry and to put this Legolas nonsense out of her head once and for all. He knew of a couple of kings that had vast kingdoms and were old enough and wise enough to handle his daughter. 
One day when Estelbain was dreaming, her thoughts were interrupted by her father's thoughts. She didn't mean to listen, but was glad she did. He was thinking about the ball he was going to throw where she would meet her future husband. 
"Father, may I speak with you right now?" Estelbain said through her teeth. How dare he even think about such a thing! But she knew she must be careful how she handled this. 
"Of course, my dear," gesturing for the servants to leave them, "What is on your mind?" 
"Father, I just wanted you to know that while I stayed with grandmother she taught me telepathy and just now your thoughts were so loud that they pierced my own." Estelbain said as gently as possible. 
"Oh," Lord Elrond said, barely managing to keep his composure. 
"And I fear I can not let you go through with this ball. For, a long time ago, when I fell in love with Legolas, I made vow that it would be him and no one else"
"Maybe a few hundred years of marriage will change …"
"And as my father I hoped that you would respect that. I'm not asking you to like him, only that you tolerate him. For he loves me and I him. His kingdom is stable and his claim to the throne is most stable. I see no reason for the hate you bear him. All I ask is that you give me a reason so that I might at least understand this," Estelbain said standing up to him emotionally for once.
"I'm your father and my word should be enough. Besides, don't you love me?" Lord Elrond said, looking down at his daughter, refusing to see the young woman she had become.
"Of course father, but with Legolas it's different. I'm no longer a child, can't you see that. I wish to have some manner of control in my life. I only ask that you think of when you were my age and how you felt." 
"Fine, if its love you desire then so be it! But that doesn't mean I will like it! But you know how unstable time as well as I do!"
"Thank you daddy." Estelbain said, jumping up and hugging her father. 
Just then, a servant came in carrying a screaming bundle. "M'lady, Estel is awake and you said that we should let Lady Gilraen sleep." 
"Oh, shh Estel, there is nothing to fret about. You'll just have to wait for the cook to warm your milk up. Please go and tell the good chef just that." Estelbain said, turning to the servant. 
Estelbain fed and then changed little Estel. In the back of her mind she worried what would happen when his mother was fit enough to care for him again. She knew she would have to give him up soon. But she would have her own children soon enough, for she had made the first step in the right direction. 
Two weeks later, Lady Gilraen was well enough to care for her son and Estelbain decided that she would go and visit Lothlorien. Then, at the most surprising request of her father, she was to bring Legolas back to Imladris. So her father could get "reacquainted" with Legolas.
The trip was uneventful. Lady Galadriel had sent Haldir to escort her there. And Legolas had already been told that she was coming, but he didn't know that her father knew. 
Legolas met Estelbain at her talan. They shared a warm embrace. Then Estelbain asked Legolas to go for a walk. When they had reached the little pond by where stood Estelbain's friend the tree, she sat down and handed the note to Legolas that her father had written. She had read it and found it every cold and impersonal, but it was a step in the right direction. 
Sincerest greetings to Legolas Prince of Greenwood the Great,
I ask that you please come and stay at Imladris with Estelbain and I after her stay in Lothlorien. I would much appreciate the opportunity to renew our acquaintance, since my daughter is so insistent. 
Approvingly, Lord Elrond, Lord of Imladris.  
"What did you do? Drug him? I thought he hated me!" Legolas said, surprised.
"He didn't hate you so much as he hated what you stood for, me growing up and being independent. Besides, it's a step in the right direction, so lets be thankful and work with what we've been given." Estelbain said, smiling.
Estelbain and Legolas stayed in Lothlorien three weeks, then said goodbye to Arwen, Lady Galadriel, and Lord Celeborn. 
The couple took their time and enjoyed the sights of what they now realized was a fading Middle Earth. 
When they arrived, Lord Elrond welcomed Estelbain warmly and treated Legolas tolerably. 
Estelbain found that baby Estel was happy to see her. Soon Legolas developed a soft spot for the little child. 
Legolas stayed for three weeks, then he had to return to his home. 
Many years passed happily (around 20 years). Estelbain visited Lothlorien and Greenwood many times, and Legolas came to stay in both Imladris and Lothlorien.
Aragorn matured and often travailed far with Estelbain's brothers and Legolas. 
Now, as the hour of Middle Earth grew late, and its day faded to dusk, Lord Elrond called Arwen back to Rivendell, for soon it would be no longer safe for her to travel. 
That day was a happy one. For both daughter and father had not seen each other in a long while. Arwen was now fifteen, beautiful and mature. Though, unlike her sister, she had dark hair and eyes. 
The next day Arwen slept the whole day and awoke the day after greatly refreshed. She spent the day unpacking and chatting with her sister. 
* * * * *
That day Estel and Legolas returned form their travels. At that time, Estelbain and Arwen were practicing Arwen's singing (for Arwen had not finished her training and looked to Estelbain to continue it.)
"Estel, I wish to see you as soon as you have washed up, and you too Legolas. I suggest you bathe and change before you see Estelbain!" Lord Elrond said, smiling. 
Estel hurried to his room and quickly bathed and changed, then hastily made his way to Lord Elrond's chambers. 
"You wished to see me, Lord Elrond?" Aragorn asked. He was now a man of twenty, and far cry form the baby that had come to be Elrond's foster son. 
"Yes Estel, you have grown to be a man and now I must tell you something that has been hidden from you for your own safety. Estel is the name I gave you when you came to live here. Your real name is Aragorn, and you are the rightful son of Arathorn, and Isildur's heir. No one knows this, save your mother, myself, Estelbain and Legolas. Here is the ring of Barahir, the token of you kinship from afar, and here also are the shards of Narsil. With these, you may yet do great deeds; for I foretell that the span of your life shall be greater than the measure of Men, unless evil befalls you or you fail at the test. But the test will be hard and long. The scepter of Annuminas I withhold, for you have yet to earn it." 
* * * * *
Estelbain and Arwen had been working for around an hour when Estelbain said, "Arwen, you have learned enough for one day. I know that you want to go and look around the forest, so go. But stay close, for things are darker with each passing day." 
* * * * *
Aragorn left Lord Elrond's chambers just as Legolas was passing by them. 
Together they went to find Estelbain. They found her sitting by the fountain, singing. When Estelbain saw them coming up the path, she stood as Legolas walked quickly toward her and picked her up and spun her around then kissed her. 
Then she turned to Aragorn. "My Aragorn, you getting so big." 
By the look on Aragorn's face, she knew her father had told him, and that was why she called him by his true name. Legolas was so happy he didn't even notice. 
"I think, I'll leave you two alone and take a walk in the woods." Aragorn said.
Aragorn felt happy to be home, yet it felt strange. But being a man of good cheer he began to sing 'The lay of Luthien'. Just as he reached the spot where Luthien and Beren meet, he spotted a beautiful elven maiden, who bore a strange likeness to Luthien herself, walking along. Without thinking, Aragorn called out, "Tinuviel, Tinuviel." 
The maiden was Arwen, who startled, turned around, and half smiled. "Who are you, and why do you call me by that name?" 
Aragorn was stunned by her beauty but still had the wit to answer, "Because I believed you to be, indeed, Luthien Tinuviel, of whom I was singing. But if you are not she, then you walk in her likeness." 
"So many have said, though not just about me." Arwen answered rather gravely. "Yet her name is not mine. Though maybe my doom will be not unlike hers. But who are you?" 
"Estel I was called," he said; "But I am Aragorn, Arathorn's son, Isildur's heir, Lord of the Dunedain." Yet even in the saying he felt that his high lineage, in which his heart had rejoiced, was now of little worth, and as nothing compared to her dignity and loveliness. 
But she laughed merrily and said: "Then we are akin from afar. For I am Arwen, Elrond's daughter, and am named also Undomiel."
'"Often is it seen," said Aragorn, "that in dangerous days men hide their chief treasure, Yet I marvel at Elrond and your brothers; for though I have dwelt in this house from childhood, I have heard no word of you. How comes it that we have never met before? Surely your father has not kept you locked in his hoard?" 
"No," she said, and looked up at the Mountains that rose in the east. "I have dwelt for a time in the land of my mother's kin, in far Lothlorien. I have but lately returned to visit my father again. It is many years since I have walked in Imladris."
* * * * *
Legolas and Estelbain walked by and stopped to watch the pair. Estelbain smiled, for the look in Aragorn's eyes was quite akin to the one in Legolas'. Legolas wanted to stay and watch, but a gentle nudge from Estelbain and they were on their way.
* * * * *
Then Aragorn wondered, for she had seemed of no greater age then he, who had lived yet no more than a score of years in Middle-Earth. But Arwen looked in his eyes and said: "Do not wonder! For the children Elrond have the life of the Eldar." 
Then Aragorn was abashed, for he saw the elven-light in her eyes and the wisdom of many days.
They walked and talked then they came to a stop over the bridge of the river Greyflood. 
Love had come and tied their heartstrings in knots that would be not easily undone by time or all it brought with it. 
On this bridge, they shared a passionate embrace and many words. 
Chapter 10
The next day, while Estelbain and Arwen where furthering Arwen's lessons, Arwen could not concentrate on even the simplest of tasks. 
Estelbain smiled knowingly and decided to wait and see what would come of it. 
"Aragorn are you listening to me?" Gilraen asked her son.
"Hum… I'm sorry mother, did you say something?" Aragon said, a smile on his face.
"Oh whatever will I do with you? You act like a puppy dog that lost its mother." Gilraen said, looking at her son. "Tell me dear son, who is this girl who has struck your fancy?"
"You're imagining things mother dear." Then he kissed her on the cheek and went on his way.
"Heaven help us," muttered his mother.
"Look at him mooning!" Legolas said to Estelbain, chuckling.
"Yes, he does resemble a lost puppy dog." Estelbain replied, smiling "But I know I've seen that look on your face more than once!" 
"Yes, well, at least…" Legolas tried as he lightly tickled her. 
Just then, Lord Elrond passed and shot a disappointed look that spanned from Aragorn to Arwen. and stopped on the couple.
Estelbain and Legolas stifled giggles and Aragorn didn't seem to notice. 
After he had left, Estelbain burst out laughing then said, "Maybe I should talk to him before father crushes it out of him, and both he and poor Arwen get it." With that, Estelbain set off to talk to the love struck young man.
"Aragorn! Wait a minute I wish to talk to you," Estelbain said, catching up.
"Yes dear Estelbain?" Aragorn had developed this quite glazed over look as if he were walking on cloud nine, high above the world.
"Aragorn listen to me, because I speak from experience. You would do better to school the look that is upon your face. Father knows something is up, and right now is not the time to tell him, for Arwen just arrived, and I don't think he will take to it well.” Estelbain said, smiling. 
"Is it that obvious?" Aragorn asked. 
"Yes. So maybe just keep it quiet for awhile." Estelbain said, smiling. 
As Lord Elrond walked to his chambers, he thought, " My own daughter mooning over a mortal, an heir of Isildur, but a mortal no less. And what if they marry? Will she choose love and humanity over the undying lands and parting from her love? Oh, I don't want to think of it. I must stop it before all goes amiss! 
Later that day Lord Elrond called Aragorn into his office. 
"Aragorn, I have a grave matter to discuss with you. Since you came to live here you've been like a son to me. Now I'm aware that you and my daughter Arwen have been acquainted and I also know the manner in which it stands. And though you are Isildur's heir, your aim is too high. You must understand that, as a father, I cannot let the silliness of you two young people cut short the grace given to my daughter by the Valar." Lord Elrond said all this with a grave and most serous look upon his face. 
Estelbain had sensed something was amiss and her instincts told her it had to do with her father. She made her way there and found that Arwen was listening at the door. Estelbain and Arwen heard everything, and as Elrond finished speaking, Arwen burst into the room. 
"Daddy no, you can't, don't you see that! Can't you see this is what the Valar want! If you do this, my grace will be cut even shorter!" she wailed and stood before her father.
"You're still a child, how are you to know what the will of the Valar is, and even if this love of which you speak will last? No, I won't allow it! By my hand I will send you to the lands now if you don't stop this foolish lamenting!' Lord Elrond thundered. 
Aragorn stood there in shock. Arwen stuttered for a minute. Then she turned and fled from the room. She ran right to the waiting arms of her sister, sobbing and shaking. 
"Oh Estely!" Arwen wailed, "What am I do? He seemed so fierce and angry. I can't help who I love, and Aragorn just sort of - happened." 
"Shh, he means well, he really does. Don't worry I won't let him send you away. You just got back. Let him get used to that." Estelbain shot an accusing look at her father who was standing the doorway. "Come now let's go and wash away those tears." Estelbain led Arwen to the fountain. She helped her wash her face then sat her down. "Arwen, obviously grandmother did not get to this in your training. Diplomacy and comprise are one of the best things to know when dealing with people. Weather they are other rulers or own your husband or in this case very stubborn father." Estelbain said, smiling. 
"What would you do?" 
"Well, right now I think it's best to wait and bide your time. If you see Aragorn, do it in secret. Right now father is too angry to talk reasonably. You need to wait until he has calmed some. Then he may listen to reason a little better. And right now, you need to think of a plan. My advice to you is to be patient. And remember, compromising with stubborn men is a lot like dealing with a young, young child. You need to let them think that they are winning, or at least that they are right and you think that." Estelbain answered wisely. 
Arwen nodded "I'm going to lay down; my head is pounding." 
"I'll send a maid too, with a tub and some hot water. I think a nice bath will do you a world of good right now. And be sure you dress special for dinner. You are to show father that though you are not the child he thinks you are, you still love him dearly. Be nice and kind right now. Sulking and pouting will get you nowhere." 
Arwen nodded again then headed to her room. 
Estelbain went inside and told a waiting page of Arwen's requests. Then she began to wander around. Something was amiss. It wasn't Arwen and her father's spat but something else that troubled her. She sat down by the fountains and began to swirl the water with her finger. Everything seemed so calm and quiet. Too calm, it sat heavy like the stillness before a great storm. It shrouded Estelbain like soup fog, blurring, and hazing everything. Everything was swirling around in Estelbain's mind, she could almost see dark images of things long forgotten for soon to come, silhouette swirled in mist and confusing. A tall menacing figure loomed ahead, drawing closer, clearing. 
Just then Legolas interrupted the trance, "There you are. I have been looking all over for you!" Legolas said, rushing over. He was troubled by the obvious lethargic state of Estelbain. He took her hand, it felt warm, and so did her face. She seemed hazy, like she was somewhere high above looking down. "Are you all right? You don't look so good," Legolas said, drawing her to him tightly. In an attempt to snap her out of it, he dipped his hand into the cool water and splashed some on her face. 
Estelbain blinked and tried to focus her eyes. She saw Legolas leaning over her with a troubled look in his big blue eyes. "Huh?!" she sat up sharply and immediately regretted it. Legolas caught her before she hit her head and drew her to his chest. 
"Shh, rest a little before you try anything." Legolas said commandingly.
"I'm all right, just a bit dizzy. The sun must be playing tricks on me." Estelbain said, forcing herself up but waiting a moment before she tried to stand. Then, splashing some more water on her face, she stood and nearly fell. Legolas placed a firm arm around her waist. Estelbain tried walking. Her legs were unsteady but after a few minutes, they returned to normal. 
"Please don't tell anyone about this. I'm sure it was something with the sun. I just need more rest." Estelbain said, looking weakly at Legolas. 
"I don't know, I mean…" 
"I'll be careful. I just don't want to worry father more." Estelbain said with great earnestness. 
"Fine," Legolas said, smiling. Kissing her before they made their way back to the city. 
"Promise me you will be careful and tell your father if this happens again?" Legolas said sternly. 
"Yes, protector!" Estelbain said, smiling as she kissed his cheek. 
When they returned to the city, Estelbain went to check on her sister and found that she was ready for dinner. So she went and readied herself.  

Dinner went smoothly and effectively. 
The next day, Aragorn and Elrond talked again. Then Aragorn left. 
After that, Arwen became quiet and stern.
Lord Elrond could not bear Arwen like this, nor could he let her lose her immortality. So, after three years, he sent her to live with her grandmother once more.
Many years passed (around 30 years). Estelbain spent most of it in Lothlorien or in Greenwood. And though her "spells of dizziness" grew, she was able to conceal them from Ninquitaloss with the help of Mirilli, a young maid new to Estelbain's house.
It chanced that she was home and decided to talk to her sister in Lothlorien in thought.  

It was after Arwen and Aragorn had met again. She learned the doom her sister had chosen, but rejoiced that she was finally happy. Estelbain knew she must talk to her father before he heard the news somewhere else. 
"Father," Estelbain began, "As you know, it is for many years that Arwen and Aragorn have had strong feeling for each other…"
"Estelbain, I do not wish to reopen that old wound!" Lord Elrond said bluntly.
"Yes, well, the only way to heal an old, infected wound is to reopen it and cleanse it." 
Lord Elrond shot her a look of contempt but let her continue.
"Imladris has been so empty without Arwen here, and she has become so sad and grave that it is not good for her. Aragorn has spent nearly one man's lifetime laboring in the wilds. He deserves something to look forward to and to come home to."
"Estelbain, I said no then and I will say it again. I know what's best for my daughter, and I hold to that." 
"Things change. Times are different, she is no longer a child."
"No, some things never change. She is my daughter." 
"She is losing her elven light, it won't matter soon!"
"When I go to the undying lands, if she is not there what am I to tell your mother? How can I tell her I lost her baby? I lost you to love, I will not lose your sister to time!' Lord Elrond said a little more weakly. 
"You didn't lose me daddy. I’m still right here, as I always will be. You’re my father and nothing can ever change that!" Estelbain said, hugging her father. 
Lord Elrond hugged his eldest daughter back and began to stroke her hair. "Let me guess, she has made her choice already?"
Estelbain nodded. 
Lord Elrond threw his hands up "Well, I guess it's out of my hands now."
A couple of months later, Lord Elrond called Arwen and Aragorn back to Imladris. 
Arwen stayed happy and content at last. 
It was then that Lady Gilraen left Imladris to be with her own people. 
Many more years passed and both sisters watched over their loves in their thoughts, and built hope for them to return home to. 
Chapter 11 
Legolas and Aragorn had been laboring hard and long when they came to Imladris.
Both girls were overjoyed to see them. Though Aragorn only stayed a week. He then went and visited his mother. 
He found her in a hopeless state. After being there only two days, she said to him, "This is our last parting, Estel my son. I am aged by care, even as one of lesser Men; and now that it draws near, I cannot face the darkness of our time that gathers upon Middle Earth. I shall leave it soon." 
"Yet there may be light beyond the darkness; and if so, I would have you see it and be glad," Aragorn said, though in his heart he knew she was right.
His mother answered him, "Onen i-Estel edain, u-chebin estel anim" (I gave hope to the Dunedain, I have no hope for myself) she said with a tear in her eye. 
The time went quietly and with sadness. Aragorn stayed only a week; begging his mother to come back to Imladris with him. She declined, saying she had been enough of a burden to Lord Elrond and his house. 
When Aragorn returned, he was silent and sad. 
Estelbain perceived his thoughts and went to console him. "Aragorn, why are you so troubled? You have come home. What has caused such a handsome face such as yours to be taxed so?" Estelbain said, smiling. 
Aragorn looked at her. "My mother has lost hope and will leave us soon. I know I can't stay and wait for her to go. There is too much to do now. So she will die alone. And if she has lost hope, then why should I carry on?"
"What did she say that made you think she had lost hope?"
"Onen i-Estel edain, u-chebin estel anim" Aragorn repeated his mother's words.
Estelbain nodded, "She didn't lose hope, she gave it away leaving none for herself. She was worn by care even before you were born. She is getting old and tired. It is not right for us to ask that she try to weather the great darkness that draws near. She will go to the hall of Mandos and be at rest; for surely the Valar will grant her the peace and safety that she so richly deserves." 
That comforted Aragorn a little but he still didn't want to her die alone. 
"After you and Legolas leave, I will go and either convince her to come with me or stay with her, Estelbain said. "We were friends once and we shall be again. It is out of your hands, so please let it trouble you no more. Arwen awaits you. Go and see her. For at this time not even the wise can tell when you will see her again!" 
Aragorn was tired, and what Estelbain had said seemed like good counsel. "Thank you. I don't know what I would do without you Estelbain." 
Estelbain drew the man into a motherly embrace, and smiled as he walked off to find her sister. 
Legolas walked up and put his arm around her waist. Then looked at her and smiled "Do you ever take to day off?" 
"A good woman's work is never done." 
"That may be so, but I think it's time that you take a break." Legolas said, smiling, and with that, he picked her up and carried her toward the wood.
Estelbain was about to protest, but she knew it would be futile. So she let him carry her into the woods, to a shallow pool. 
Then he put her down. "Close your eyes," he said softly, then he led her to a table right beside the pool, surrounded by trees.
Estelbain gasped! It was so beautiful, with the candles reflecting on the pond and the harvest moon big and pale in the sky. 
"I thought you might enjoy a dinner to ourselves, well almost." Legolas said as he pulled out Estelbain's chair then motioned for the waiter to bring the drinks and meal. The waiter disappeared behind a tree, where he would be out of sight, as well as hearing. 
"Legolas, this is all so perfect," Estelbain said breathlessly. 
"Just like you, my dear." Legolas said, smiling.
After they had finished their meal, three musicians appeared out of nowhere and began to play. Legolas and Estelbain danced for a while, then Legolas took her hand and they went for a walk. 
When they were away from the servants, Legolas pulled Estelbain into to him. He planted him mouth firmly on her and patiently waited for her to open her lips and grant him passage. He placed an arm tenderly around Estelbain's modest waist and raised his other hand and brushed some of the gold strands of hair from her pale face. 
He removed his lip and opened his eyes surveying the site before him. He leaned close to Estelbain's perfectly pointed ear and whispered, "It feels so good to have you in my arms again. It's like a balm for my sprit. I love you so much. No matter what Estelbain, I will always love you." he caressed her slender neck his nose then proceeded to kiss it. 
"And I you Legolas." Estelbain answered him, lifting his chin so they were eye level, inviting him to once more claim her mouth. 
Legolas smiled and sighed he lifted Estelbain's legs out from under her and set on the ground. He sat down besides leaning against a large gray tree. 
Estelbain looked up at Legolas and said, "It's so good to be in your arms again and to not be worried about where you are and if you are all right." Sighing, Estelbain leaned her head against his solid chest, inhaling his intoxicating scent. 
They stayed in the meadow for a while, gazing up and at the stars and enjoying each other company. Before long Estelbain began to yawn and nod off. 
Estelbain snuggled closer, burring herself deeper in the warmth and love that was Legolas. 
Legolas kissed the top of her head then whispered into her hair "Sleep well my fair princess, for I am you prince and I will love you and protect you, for always and forevermore."
Estelbain smiled, as Legolas drew her closer for one more embrace. Then he helped her up and they walked slowly together back to Estelbain's rooms. 
Legolas stayed for a couple more weeks after Aragorn left, then he returned to Greenwood. 
A few of weeks later, Estelbain went and traveled to where Lady Gilraen was. 
The lady greeted her kindly, and warmly invited her into her house. 
"It's so good to see you again Estelbain. You have become even fairer since the last time I saw you." The lady said, smiling, and enjoying the company. 
"And you Lady Gilraen. You seem to grow in majesty and wisdom rather than age." Estelbain said, smiling. 
Lady Gilraen chuckled, "A little of all of it, though mainly age. And I'm sure that is why you are here. Because my son was worried and didn’t want me here alone in my old age." 
"He is concerned with your well being. But he is only being a good son." Estelbain said, smiling "Besides, it has been too long since I have talked to you, old friend." 
"Well then, come and talk," the Lady said. After Estelbain had stayed a couple of weeks, she said to Lady Gilraen "You should come back to Imladris with me. Then you wouldn't be so lonely."
The Lady was unsure "I don't want to impose upon you or your house…"
"You wouldn’t in the least. It would be nice to have company again." 
"Well, I don’t know"
"It would ease Aragorn's already troubled mind."
"I guess. Who am I to refuse such an offer?" 
Estelbain just smiled.
They left the next week. 
Sadly, Lady Gilraen passed away that spring, peacefully in her sleep. 
The whole house was in mourning for weeks. They laid her to rest by her house, which had been built when Aragorn was still young. In a grave, in her garden that she loved, they placed her. Many colorful and sweet-smelling flowers covered her grave. 
When Aragorn returned that fall, he was greatly saddened by the news, though Arwen comforted him as best she could. 
* * * * *
A few more years passed by, and then, one day, Mithrandir (Gandalf) came to Lord Elrond for counsel. He called for Estelbain as well. 
"Estelbain my dear, you grow more lovely every time I see you! But now is not the time for formalities!" a tone of grave concern, yet a hint of excitement, was to be found the old wizard's voice. 
"What matter brings you here, Gandalf the Grey, it must be of some important for you to go against your own wise saying and seek our counsel?" Lord Elrond said. 
(Go not to the Elves for counsel, for they will say both yes and no).
"Well, it seems that in the Shire, a magic ring was being kept by a Hobbit named Bilbo Baggins." Gandalf said.
"And you wish to know if it is the one ring that was lost so long ago, yet which all still seek. You are too eager Gandalf. Forgive me, but I've perceived your thoughts," Estelbain said, smiling. 
"Yes, it seems that way," Gandalf said, smiling up through his bushy eyebrows. "That, and I hope you may be able to shed some light on it, for this is where the records and heirlooms of the kingdom of the North are kept."
"Yes, of course," Lord Elrond said, and he nodded to Estelbain.
"Come, I think I know of just the thing to aid you in your quest." Estelbain said, as she led Gandalf to a room that had selves and selves of parchment paper. 
"The records of Ancient Gondor." Estelbain said, then she walked knowingly to the wall and began to gently shuffle through the papers. "Ah, here it is."
She set it down on the table before Gandalf. On the paper, in flowery script, it said, 
"When the ring first came to me, it had writing on it of the likes of Mordor. But as the hours grow, it begins to fade. It holds a secret only fire will tell now. It showed the dark script, and Estelbain recited part of the old rhyme: 
'Three Rings for the Elven-kings under the sky,
Seven for the Dwarf-lords in their halls of stone,
Nine for Mortal Men doomed to die,
One for the Dark Lord on his dark throne
In the Land of Mordor where the Shadows lie. 
Then he looked at the paper where it said the rest: 
"One Ring to rule then all, One Ring to find them,
One Ring to bring them all and in the darkness bind them
In the Land of Mordor where the Shadows lie." 
"Yes, so it seems that I will be paying a visit to the Shire quite soon. Oh, and you may wish to warn your father and the cook that Bilbo Baggins is on his way here and should arrive rather soon!"
"Oh yes, I will make a note of that."
Right after Bilbo arrived, Gandalf came again. It seemed that a new turn of events had come about regarding the ring and that Estelbain was needed in Greenwood right away.