Immense thanks to my dear beta and all my friends that keep on bouncing the chapters and holding my hand through the hard labor of finishing this tale. Without them and the generous and kind support of the readers I wouldn't have come this far. Love and thanks, C. Disclaimer: I do not own any of J.R.R. Tolkien's characters or settings, even if I love them as if they were my own. The idea and Cyrene are mine, only mine. Immense thanks to my dear beta and all my friends that keep on bouncing the chapters and holding my hand through the hard labor of finishing this tale. Without them and the generous and kind support of the readers I wouldn't have come this far. Love and thanks, C. Chapter XXXII: AN ELF'S GRIEF AND A KING'S CHOICE Just like the time the Three Hunters had raced upon the plains of Rohan in pursuit of the Uruk Hai, Gimli was weary and sore. Though he loathed every moment he spent in the saddle, he did not say a word and endured the hard ride towards the coast. Their pace was now no less forced than in Rohan, but for a whole different reason: Legolas's life force was weakening, his spirit fading and he longed to reach the sea before going to the Halls of Mandos. It seemed ironic to the dwarf that the immortal and fair elves would be so vulnerable to the power of the higher emotions, enough to die out of a broken heart. It was true that Gimli could now understand that once an elf gave his unique love away, the loss of the beloved one could lead to deepest grief, and finally, to death. It was the second day of their journey, and the riders did not pause until it was too dark to ride. And by then, Gimli was sure that if Legolas could have given their mount his keen sight, they would have continued their journey. Legolas built a small fire, and Gimli appreciated that the gesture was for his sake alone. The elf was apathetic as he sat on the ground and handed Gimli a water flask and a piece of lembas-bread. "You did not know I would ride with you, Legolas, but still you brought enough food," commented the dwarf. Legolas smiled. "I did not know … but I hoped. I have become very attached to your company, my friend." Gimli had to laugh. "You would have to chain me down, Master Elf, to keep me from coming. This dwarf will not leave your side as far as you may need him." "'Tis odd, you know, my friend. When we started this journey we were beyond distrustful of each other. And now I can hardly think of any other companion I would prefer at my side on any journey, besides maybe Aragorn," whispered the elf. His beautiful features were drawn, his expression aged and weary. Gimli's heart ached at the sight of the elf's face. He dared to speak about the cause of Legolas' grief. "She loves you, Legolas. And you two belong together. I cannot understand …" "It may be that Cyrene loves me, even as much as I love her, Gimli. But she chose another path, and I am not able to stop my feelings for her. My life is forsaken, beyond my will," Legolas explained this calmly, stating the fact. "Then you must speak to her, woe to that stubborn female, make her understand! I will not sit here and see you die, Legolas. You are a warrior, and if you have given up, I have not. Damn you, thickheaded pointy-eared creature! Fight for you life, fight for your love!" screamed the dwarf, jumping to his feet in spite of his exhaustion and aching muscles. The elf's features showed confusion at the outburst. "It is not the way of elves to …" He was harshly interrupted. "I do not care about the ways of elves. I care about you and that woman. It is not the way of elves to fall in love with humans either. And it is not the way of elves to befriend dwarves. Fight this melancholy, Legolas, I demand it!" said Gimli and kicked a log into the fire, stomping away from the small camp. Legolas Greenleaf's eyes followed the dwarf into the darkness. And a slight spark of hope started growing inside of him. Gimli was right. **** Eowyn of Rohan made her way though the courtiers and citizens that crowded the King's Hall. She walked with sure strides, looking for any Amazon that could tell her where Cyrene could be found. Many hours had passed since she had left Aella in the Houses of Healing, but being the highest-ranking lady in the City until the future Queen arrived was no easy task. Eowyn had been trained and groomed for ruling and organizing a kingdom since her childhood, and she received thankful looks for her efforts from Aragorn and Faramir, who were receiving the guests and people of the country. Still it was a taxing chore, and once she had seen to the court's needs and events of the day, Eowyn could pursue her original intent: finding Cyrene. But her eyes did not find even one Amazon in the hall, or in the Citadel for that matter. She went to the stable to fetch a mount and ride out to the Rohirrim's and Amazon's camp outside the City walls and found Eomer, who was inspecting the horses that had been brought as a gift for the King. A wide smile spread over the face of the White Lady, as her brother saw her arrival and opened his arms to embrace her. After the fight with the Witch King, it still seemed a wonder to Eomer that his sister was alive and well. Her arm was still sore and had to be used carefully, but Eowyn looked rosy and healthy, the joy of her newfound love shining bright in her clear eyes. "Brother! I did not expect to find you here. Are you well, Eomer?" said Eowyn as soon as she could breathe again after his tight embrace. Eomer sighed into his sister's hair. "I am well, Eowyn. Every time I see you, my heart holds its beat and starts all over again. I wish to never have to think you dead for the rest of my life." "I promise to avoid further encounters with evil creatures, brother, as long as they do not threaten those beloved to me," she replied, caressing Eomer's cheek. He smiled gently, pouring into that smile all the love he felt for his sister. "I have to speak to Cyrene, brother, and I cannot seem to find her or any of her warriors in the Citadel. Can you lend me a horse to ride out and look for her in your camp …" started Eowyn. "The Amazons are gone, Eowyn. They left before noon. Cyrene told me to give you her farewells and a message that she would return to the City in time for the King's wedding," interrupted Eomer. The look in Eowyn's face must have shown her horror, for Eomer was alarmed as well. "Sister, is something amiss?" "I had to tell Cyrene something before she left. It was very important. Was her departure not planned for the early morrow?" said Eowyn starting to pace quickly and trying to figure out what to do. "Indeed, she planned to leave at dawn, but it seems that there were some … incidents between the Amazon warriors and men of the city. So she decided to leave at once and left the message I gave you. Forgive me if I did not seek you out sooner, but I did not think it was a pressing matter," said Eomer, confused at his sister's behavior. Eowyn looked at her brother. She knew about Eomer's recent feelings for Cyrene, and she felt sympathy for his unrequited love. It was even worse then her infatuation for Aragorn, for Eomer knew Cyrene well and they had shared a deep friendship for a long time. But she could understand Cyrene's own discovery of love in the person of Legolas, for Eowyn had also found her true mate in Faramir, without ever expecting it. "It is a matter of importance that concerns Cyrene and Legolas. I have to find a way to reach her as soon as possible. I cannot await her return. I shall ride after her right now …" Eowyn spoke her thoughts aloud, already walking towards the stable of her horse. She halted when she felt her brother's hand upon her uninjured arm. "Eowyn, you have duties in Minas Tirith, and your betrothed is here as well. You cannot ride after Cyrene. If it is such an important matter, I shall go to her for you. Is that your wish, sister?" asked Eomer softly. Eowyn looked at the King of Rohan and hesitated. Would he be able to speak to Cyrene and convince her to ride after the elf, even if it meant crushing all his own hopes for conquering the Amazon's affections? Would he be willing to do it? *** For an awkward moment, Aella looked from Eomer's guarded expression to Eowyn's expectant face. They sat by her bed in the Houses of Healing, telling her that Cyrene had ridden away without even saying goodbye and that there was nothing Aella could do to keep her promise to Gimli and help to bring Amazon and elf to their senses. "You must be jesting, Eowyn. I cannot believe that the Gods would be willing to let this happen. And I will not resign myself to see two people who obviously belong together torn apart by words said or left unspoken. I shall not abide it!" fumed the little Amazon. Then she sat up, not even blinking at the numb pain of her leg. She reached for her armor and gear and started dressing up. Eowyn laid a soft hand on the Amazon's arm. "Aella, you cannot do this. Eomer will ride after Cyrene, but tell him what is it that she should know, to convince her to seek out Master Legolas." Though no one had ever told Aella about Eomer's feelings for Cyrene, she had seen them together often enough to know. The longing she saw in the King's eyes when he had seen the Amazon with the elf had been enough. Aella did not hesitate to voice her doubts. "Will you, Eomer, aid us in this matter even if it means that Cyrene and Legolas could be bound together for the rest of their lives?" asked the redhead. Eomer endured the blue eyes searching his face. He did not flinch. "My first concern is Cyrene's happiness, and if it lies with the elf, I shall help her to find it." Eowyn laid her hand upon Aella's arm. "He is my brother and Cyrene's friend. Eomer is also a noble and true warrior, Aella. Do not distrust him." "Eowyn, Eomer is my liege through Cyrene. I have fought alongside him in battle and know his bravery and noble heart. But I also know his feelings for my friend," Aella sighed. "Eomer, we have learned that Cyrene left Legolas because she thinks that he will lose his immortality if he binds himself to a mortal. I also know now something that Cyrene does not know: elves cannot lose their eternal life even if they are bound to mortals. However, they may die of grief. Master Legolas is, as we speak, dying of a broken heart, because of Cyrene. And she is not aware of this. She has to know, and we are running against time." Eomer's eyes widened at the news. For all the jealousy he felt towards the elf, he did not want him to die. And neither did he want Cyrene to carry the guilt of her love's demise. A sharp pang of his own guilt struck him as he remembered that he was the one who told the Amazon that elves lose their immortality when bound to humans. "It was I. I told Cyrene that Legolas would forfeit his immortal life if he bound himself to her. I thought it was true, I had no intention …" Heavy silence hung upon the three persons in the House of Healing. Eowyn was looking at her brother in shock for a moment, and then took her hand in his. She saw the despair and regret in his face, and her heart hurt for Eomer. Aella looked from one to another and sighed again, louder this time. "Cyrene has to know of this at once, Eomer. Will you ride after the Amazons and speak to her? She should speak to Legolas before…" "Yes, I shall leave before the sun sets. I will convince her, and I shall even ride with her to find Legolas and Gimli. Do you know where they went, Mistress Aella?" "Gimli told me that they would be riding towards the coast, and he spoke of a last campsite where Legolas, Cyrene, and he had been to before encountering the Amazons' camp. That is all I know. I should ride with you, Eomer…" said Aella, trying again to put her gear on. This time she failed to hide the discomfort when she moved her leg. Eowyn pushed her back on the pallet gently. "Don't be foolish, Aella. You are in no shape to take a forced ride anywhere. You would only slow down Eomer. And he will find Cyrene and bring her to Legolas," the White Lady said sternly, speaking to the Amazon but looking at her brother. "I will leave at once. And I vow to do everything in my might to bring them together," Eomer vowed and turned on his heel leaving the room. Both women watched him leave, knowing he would keep his oath. *** Cyrene and the Amazons rode as far as they could before nightfall. It was understandable to her that once the strain of warfare had worn off, the co-existence of Amazons and people of Middle Earth would not be easy, if possible. There were too many differences in their way of thinking and behaving, their codes of honor, and their customs. It was then that she realized that beyond her promises to Aella and her resolution not to return to Artemis Island, even if her mother and sister had insisted upon her going back, she could not and would not leave Middle Earth. She would always be an Amazon and proud of her heritage, but too much of her had changed since she had left the island. By now she would be incapable of abiding by the laws and customs of her people. The past days weighed upon her as if they were years. Rohan, Eowyn, Eomer, Legolas, and Gimli, had touched her soul and changed her in too many ways. Cyrene ordered a light camping, without setting up tents to avoid any delay in the morning. After seeing to her horse, she gathered her gear and saddle and sought a place to settle for the night, away from the other warriors. Her fellow Amazons would ever give her respect and obedience, but she knew that they did not understand her relationship with Legolas. No Amazon would yield and submit publicly to any male. Not even an admired fellow warrior like the elf or even a king among men. Cyrene did not regret having admitted her bond to Legolas for everyone to see. Though her feelings and their intensity still confused her, Cyrene was aware that every minute she had spent with Legolas had been precious. Especially at this time, when she was sure she had chased him away for good. Legolas could not bear to see her and wouldn't even speak to Cyrene.She had seen it with her own eyes in Minas Tirith. The thought of being the subject of his contempt or hatred hurt her, in a way she had never felt before. How had she become so very dependent on him? Legolas had shown her about the mating of male and female, he had given her trust and friendship in her darkest moments. They had forged a bond beyond their shared physical pleasure and when the decisive moment had come, Cyrene had not trusted him with her doubts and fears. Instead, she had hurt him and driven him away. Sleep eluded the Amazon. She looked up into the starry night and wondered if she should seek Legolas out once she had finished her mission in Dol Amroth. In spite of her pride and confusion, Cyrene decided that she had to speak to him and let Legolas decide if they had a future together or not. ** At sunset of the next day, as the Amazons made camp for the night, Eomer and Dumetar arrived. They had ridden with four horses, so as to not overexert their mounts; still the horses were shaking with exhaustion and covered with foam. Cyrene ran up to Eomer, worry etched in her features. "Eomer, my brother! Is all well In the White City? How is Eowyn? Aella? Why have you followed us? I would have returned to Minas Tirith in the next days…" she said. Eomer thanked an Amazon who had given him a flask with water and turned to Cyrene. He was tired and his clothes were damp with sweat beneath his armor. But he mustered a smile for her. "I need a word with you, Cyrene. It is a pressing matter that could not be held out until your return." She smiled back, still intrigued about Eomer's appearance, and greeted Dumetar. Cyrene and Eomer walked away from the camp, until they were out of hearing distance and Eomer spoke. "Cyrene, you have to return at once. You have to ride after Legolas and Gimli," he said. "Eomer, you must be jesting. You have not ridden a horse to exhaustion to tell me this, have you?" asked Cyrene in disbelief. "In fact, my sister, I have. You have no time. It is a matter of life and death that you speak to Legolas without further delay," explained Eomer, and his eyes searched in the woman's face for any sign that her feelings towards the elf might have changed. The Amazon looked back at Eomer, this time in confusion. "My brother, it was you who told me about the hopelessness of my relationship with him. Why is it now important that I speak to him? Why can it not wait until my return? I wanted to seek him out myself…but I do not understand the urgency." The King of Rohan looked at the woman in front of him and saw the woman he loved and trusted, the woman he would give his life for, and he knew that he would also give up his love and heart for her, only to see again in her eyes the light he had seen after Pelennor Fields. The light of a woman in love, whose love was returned and made her stronger and complete. The look that he saw now, reflecting the last rays of the dying sun, were those of a lost and hurt girl, despite all the warrior trappings. He caressed her cheek before telling her, "Cyrene, I have been told that elves do not lose their immortality if bound to humans. In fact, it is rather the humans who have to decide if they are able to endure seeing undying beauty and youth by their side while they wither and age themselves. Have you thought about this?" "Yes, Eomer. And for a single year of Legolas's love I would go to Hades and back. I could only not endure the thought of binding myself to him and so being the cause of his death. But there is something else, some other thing I must know?" she asked, searching for answers in Eomer's familiar face. "Yes, my beloved sister. You must seek Master Legolas without any further delay, because though elves do not die of age, they can die of grief." Eomer saw the doubt in Cyrene's features. "Legolas' love for you is true. He is fading as we speak. And you have to go to him before it is too late." *** Chapter XXXIII: Decissions It took Gimli and Legolas another day to reach the the Dor-en-Ernil mountains and the site over overlooking the Gilrain river delta where they had camped almost a fortnight before. Legolas had shed some of the resignation that had marked his demeanor since Morannon, strength returning to his every move and action. Gimli could almost see how t the elf was struggling with a millennia of his people’s ancient knowledge and beliefs , searching for a way out, not wanting to give in to grief. As they rode closer to the ocean, Legolas felt the call. It was strong, persuasive, luring him to endless peace and spiritual solace.The longing for Valinor was forceful, and made him think of just following the summons of the sea and forgetting everything in Middle Earth. This time, it was Gimli who set a small fire and prepared a small camp. The elf stood on the highest vantage point, his eyes lost in the distance, letting the call of Valinor and his feelings for Cyrene and his beloved ones lead a relentless battle over him. The dwarf waited for his friend to return until the deepest darkness surrounded them. Carefully, Gimli walked to where Legolas stood, like a marble statue, not having moved for hours. The dwarf did not speak to his friend, but seeing that the elf was well, silently turned on his heel and returned to the fire. Legolas was trying to find answers he already knew. But he had to realize this on his own. *** Cyrene knew that she was risking her horse’s and her own safety riding in the dark. But she refused to stop. She could not. Since Éomer had told her that Legolas was fading from grief and heartbreak, she did not care for anything else but reaching and speak to him. She could not let the elf die, and if he did, she preferred to die at his side rather than continuing to live with the certainty that she could have saved him. Éomer and Dumetar were accompanying the Amazons to Dol Amroth. They had helplessly watched Cyrene choose two mounts with light gear and leave in the deepest darkness of a moonless night, retracing the miles she had ridden by daylight. Cyrene had parted from the Amazons and her Rohirrim friends the night before, and during the daylight hours she had been able to orientate herself riding towards the Dor-en-Ernil mountains. Now, darkness had slowed down her pace, but she kept on riding, changing horses every few hours. Hopelessly, she followed the dark silhouette of the mountains and the smell and sound of the ocean. The Goddess help her, she had to find Legolas. ** Legolas couldn’t remember a night as long as this. Not only because of the deep darkness due to the new moon but because he felt lost and alone in the shadow of his own fears and feelings. The ocean, infinite and soothing, the waves singing the ageless song of peace and forgetfulness, promised him succor and happiness. Immortal heaven, for the rest of his life. Its sound and scent had already given him comfort and eased the grief and the pain. It would be so easy to just give in to the call, follow his kin, fulfill his destiny. In the exact moment he let the balmy effect of the sea enter his soul, his heart pulled him back from its solace, reminding him of those he cherished the most. . Legolas could not leave Middle Earth behind. Too much, too dear and he wanted to enjoy it as long as it was given to him to experience: he had promised Gimli to show him Fangorn Forest and to go with him to the Glittering Caves; he wanted to see Aragorn bring Gondor to its former glory, he wished to see the small Hobbits finding happiness in their beloved Shire. And no matter the cost or the effort, he would woo Cyrene, the owner of his love, and show her that they were meant to be together. Legolas knew that both would have to pay a dear price, for their match could not last forever, as she was mortal and he was immortal. But he also believed that their love could vanquish the odds against them, if they loved enough. A sad smile settled upon his lips. Was it a wise choice? Trade eternal bliss and happiness for earthly discomfort … alongside friendship and love? Probably it was not any wiser than choosing a cup of water over his father’s finest wine. But it was his choice and a risk he wanted to take. The sun was tinting the horizon, lighting up the sea as Legolas acknowledged his chosen path. He turned to walk back to the camp and tell Gimli his decision, but he could not move. Twenty paces from him, waiting, stood Cyrene. As the sunlight reached her, the metal of her armor gleamed. She was clad in her warrior attire, including her helmet, fully armed. She seemed to be waiting for him to notice her, for then she moved. Not saying a word, she took her labryss and her sword from her waist and set them on the ground. Slowly, she removed her helmet, her armor and weapons, piece by piece, until she stood clad only in her tunic and boots. Then she walked up to where Legolas stood. “I come to you as a simple mortal woman, to offer you my life and my love, Legolas. I beg your forgiveness, for not having been true to your friendship, trust and love,” said Cyrene softly but firmly. Then she sighed and set one knee on the ground before the elf. Legolas quickly took the Amazon by the shoulders and pulled her up. “By the Valar, Cyrene, do not kneel!”. For a moment he longed to embrace and kiss her, but there was still much to be said. “We are equals, brothers in arms, friends and lovers. You shall never bow to me, Amazon!” Elven fingers stroked lightly over the soft, exposed skin of her upper arms. He had missed the feel of it, for ages it seemed to him. “I cherish you as my peer, my friend and ally, a respected warrior and an outstanding person.” Cyrene’s eyes showed confusion. “Is that not what you wish from me? Is not submission what a male wants from a female? I … am willing to submit to you, and accept whatever this implies, Legolas. I would do anything to stay by your side, and I will never allow you to be heartbroken as long as I draw breath.” “You came to me because you thought I was dying of grief?” asked Legolas. He did not want her pity. “Yes” she said. “But also because I can not bear to live apart from you, Legolas. If you die, I shall die as well. If you live, I shall live, by your side if you allow it.” His blue eyes searched in her face and found sincerity and fear. She feared his rejection. “I would have come to seek you, Cyrene, to the end of the world if need be. I would never abide your compliance or your allegiance to me. But I do not want or need your pity either. ” “I do not offer pity, Legolas. I offer you all I have. Myself and my love,” she whispered. “Your love?” he asked disbelievingly. The Amazon straightened her stance. Lifting her head proudly she said: “I love you, Legolas of Mirkwood. And I shall love you for as long as the Goddess gives me life.” The elf felt his heart soar with happiness at her confession. “Then, we shall be together, beloved. As equals, as mates: the elf and the fierce and independent Amazon I fell in love with. Our bond shall be one of love and respect.” He saw understanding in her eyes, as she realized that he accepted her as she was, without submission, without sacrifice. But he also had to be sure that the Amazon understood that she had to accept him and his heritage of elven eternal life as well. “Cyrene, are you willing to share your life with me, even if I will not age or wither but vow to stay with you all of your lifetime?” “Yes, Legolas. For you make every day of my life worth living,” Cyrene answered. “Then may the Gods grant us a long time together, amaelamin, for I love you enough for many human lifetimes and more. ** Aella sat in the gardens of the Houses of Healing, restless and unhappy, since they had no word yet either from Éomer nor from Cyrene or Gimli. She felt useless, for not being able to intervene in the events. Waiting drove her insane. But the small Amazon had found a good companion in the Lady of Rohan. Éowyn organized her time so that she was able to visit Aella as often as possible through the day. Not knowing if Éomer had reached Cyrene and if the Amazon had ridden after Legolas and Gimli and what the outcome of the encounter had been was filling both women with worry. Aella’s leg was improving, enough for her to be able to leave her bed and sit in the open. But as she spent hours brooding over the uncertainty and all possible scenarios of what could have happened with Cyrene, loneliness and depression took over her mind. The Amazon felt awkward and uneasy amongst the people of Gondor. And she missed Gimli terribly. Which brought even more confusion and dread to her mind. What would become of them now? They had fought alongside one another, and shared moments of pleasure and unbelievable tenderness. She had found a mate and a lover in the dwarf.. And she was aware that her feelings for him were deep and powerful, enough to frighten Aella. Now that the war was over, as well as Gimli’s sworn journey to destroy the ring, what would happen? She dared not to think about a future with him, and her own future was uncertain as yet. Aella had pledged herself to Cyrene, to stay with her in Middle Earth and be her companion for good. Gimli would most probably return to Erebor, to his people and family and resume his life. They were from different races, different cultures and backgrounds. And they had never discussed any future at all. For the first time in her life, for a brief moment, Aella wished she wasn’t an Amazon. That she knew how a woman or a female dwarf would behave and handle the situation. But as suddenly as the thought crossed her mind, it was also over. Aella was a woman of action, and regret did not suit her. Still, she lifted her eyes to the evening sky and prayed to the moon, Artemis’ symbol on Earth, to find a way to gain her heart back and move on with life. *** Faramir was patiently learning to know and understand the way his betrothed thought and reacted. Having met her not so long ago, he already knew that his bride’s determined and independent manner was as much a part of her as her bravery or gentle caring for those for whom she felt responsible. In the past days, since Elessar’s coronation, Minas Tirith had been boiling with activity and visitors. The King and the Steward were engaged in endless meetings and reception of both Gondorian citizens and envoys of neighboring lands to salute the new ruler of the White City. In fact, neither Aragorn nor Faramir had managed to set a foot outside the city in the last three days. The Steward of Gondor felt trapped in the confines of the city. If it hadn’t been for Eowyn’s voluntary take over of the handling of the Hall and putting order upon the service personal, Faramir did not dare to imagine how they would have managed the chaos of people and organization. Eowyn ran diligently through the Citadel, looking after the details of board and food for guests and inhabitants, easing quarrels and offering advice to the women in charge of the kitchen, upkeep and cleaning. This tireless, helpful side of Eowyn was the one Faramir had not expected to encounter, but then he still did not know much about his wife to be. And learning of her ways and character, little by little, observing her from afar, Faramir felt that the choice of his heart had been right: this was the woman he had always longed for. *** A warrior to the bone, Aella’s sleep was light. So, as the subtle sound of footsteps reached her ears, she carefully slid her hand beneath her pillow and her fingers closed over the hilt of a dagger. Though she was an ally and a guest in Minas Tirith, as long as Cyrene hadn’t returned she was the only Amazon in the city. When the careful sounds were near enough, Aella spun in her bed, tackling the source of the noise to the ground, and instinctively looking for the intruder’s throat. The stranger rolled swiftly over her, managing to pin the Amazon under his weight and grabbing her arms. Aella raised her knee swiftly to hit the attacker’s groin, but again, she had forgotten that her dislocated leg allowed her only some movements, and a soft whimper escaped her lips at the pain and the impossibility of fulfilling the maneuver and dislodging the intruder. “Easy, you are hurting yourself, silly woman!” she heard the male say and finally, she recognized him, wrestling now to free her arms to hold him close. “If this is the welcome I can expect from you every time we are apart, I shall not let you out of my sight, Amazon,” said Gimli, letting her arms go, once he was sure she had recognized him. But he choked on the fierce hug the small woman gave him once she was able to. “I am very glad you returned, Gimli. I … missed you. Did Eomer find Cyrene? Did she talk to Legolas? Are both well?” asked Aella in one breath. The dwarf rolled onto his back, to relieve Aella from his weight, pulling the little Amazon with him, so that her head rested on his broad chest. “Eomer reached Cyrene and she rode after us. But I think that Legolas had reflected on the matter as well and made his decision,” he explained. Then he went silent, even if he knew that the woman was waiting for more. “By the Goddess, you irritating male! What happened? Tell it all, I beg you!” requested Aella. “Aaaaaaaah, feisty one. I missed you as well. You and your temper and your impossible demeanor, and your … well, I missed you very much, beloved. And what do you do when I return? You, of all people, attack me and try to mangle my body and …” he started rambling, but was interrupted as Aella sat up and softly set a finger on his lips. “What did you say? Say it again, I beg you …” she told him, softly. Gimli was surprised at her behavior. What had he said or done to upset her? “I told you that I missed your temper and your impossible demeanor and …” “You called me “beloved”. And you called me that before too. What does that mean to you?” she urged him. He had been thinking about their relationship as well. About the fact that they hadn’t exchanged any promises or words of love, they hadn’t ever talked about a possible future and if they were going to be together after the war. Nothing at all. “Beloved is an endearment exchanged between lovers and friends, Aella.” He explained hesitantly. The light of joy in her eyes seemed to dim a little after his words, and she laid down, settling her head over his heart again. “I understand, Gimli. Now tell me about Cyrene and Legolas,” she said. The dwarf sighed loudly. “What do you wish to hear, Amazon? We are lovers and friends. What else do you wish?” She forced herself not to turn away from him. He was right, there was nothing bonding them beyond their tender lovemaking and a loyal friendship in which both knew they could entrust their lives upon the other. What did she want to hear? “I don’t know what I wish … forgive me,” she replied and stubbornly kept her cheek on his chest, trying to focus on the steady heartbeat beneath the leather jerkin. It gave her the reassurance that he was with her, for as long as it lasted. The serene, resigned tone of the woman’s voice hurt Gimli. He was not ready to say or ask for promises yet. He wanted to know, but he dared not ask. Dwarves did not speak about feelings, they showed them with actions. Then something that Legolas had said to him in the Amazon camp came back to his mind. And he dared to tell Aella. “Legolas told me once, that even if one might loose in the end, one should let the heart guide one’s actions. That it was better than spending the rest of ones life wondering what it could have been like. My heart tells me that I want to keep you close as long as you would stay with me. What does your heart say, Aella?" Gimli asked and held his breath, waiting for her response. “I feel that my heart lies with you, Gimli of the Dwarves. And I would like very much to stay with you and not have to wonder ,” she said, smiling up at him. And their eyes exchanged silent promises, that both knew they would keep. *** Years later Legolas Greenleaf walked out of the house towards the cliff overlooking the Bay of Belfalas. South Gondor was beautiful and wild, and in this place, and this place alone, the elf felt close to Valinor but still a part of Middle Earth and those he loved There was, strangely enough, a tree that grew on the rocky ground of the cliff’s edge, and from that vantage point, the sight overlooking land and ocean was breathtaking. But Legolas’ eyes did not linger on the beautiful landscape before him, bathed as it was in the golden and red lights of the sunset, but sought someone that should be there, by the tree. And he was not disappointed. The days he had been away had appeared like years to him, even decades. Now he had returned home. He threaded his way lightly on the mossy ground. But she heard him nevertheless. The elf always thought that beyond the abilities of a hunter and having a keen sense of hearing and sight, she could sense his approach. Smiling at the woman sitting on the ground, he knelt by her side, taking her in his arms and settling behind her, pulling her closer and fitting her back against his chest. “I was not expecting your return, Legolas. Not for another week at least. Is all well in Ithilien?” asked Cyrene, sighing in pleasure as she felt her beloved’s arms close around her. “All is well in Minas Ithil. Faramir has agreed to give me permission and land for the elves that are not ready to cross but cannot remain in their cities anymore. And Eowyn sends her best greetings and begs for a visit as soon as possible. I told her that it could take many a week until you may come see her,” he explained. Cyrene smiled. “It may, indeed. But it also may be that it is sooner than expected. I do not believe that it will require very much longer.” “Is that so, amaelamin? Are you well?” asked Legolas anxiously. “Indeed I am, beloved. Only impatient. Give me your hands,” Cyrene said, and settled his long-fingered, nimble hands on her round, pregnant belly. As if by command, the babe began moving, and Legolas’ sensitive fingers followed the movements and kicks of his unborn child. The Amazon observed with delight the emotions crossing Legolas’ face. As soon as he had found out about her pregnancy, he had been observing his wife with disbelief and amazement. The sole idea of having sired life, a new being created as a result of their love was still a wonder he did not dare to believe. Cyrene closed her eyes and reveled in the moment, opening her eyes quickly again, unwilling to miss the spectacle unfurling before them. The sun had almost set, darkness was already closing in. No matter how long the Goddess gave them together, Cyrene would never regret her choice. For as long as she could share her life with Legolas, she would revel in the sunshine of his love. Epilogue Elves did not sleep, but Legolas Greenleaf had gotten used to joining his mate during night rest, just to share the quiet hours of darkness and indulge in the serene pleasure of holding her. Tonight was no exception. After so many years together, their bond had grown stronger, deeper, and sometimes, for all his elven wisdom, Legolas couldn’t tell if Cyrene could actually read his mind or he read hers. Sometime in the past decades, they had both assimilated customs and manners from each other, to the point that he often wondered if hadn’t become human or the Amazon hadn’t turned into an elf. But as generous as the Valar and the Goddess had been with them, both knew that they were running against time, and both enjoyed every moment together to its fullest extent. Nature had been kind to Cyrene. Close to having lived fifty winters, her black hair only showed a few strands of silver, and her face was almost untouched by age. Only her eyes showed the experience gathered in the past years, the joys and sorrows of a life well lived and a person well loved. Cyrene’s eyes were closed, and she moved closer into her husband’s embrace. Soon he would have to travel again, as well as she would have too, and this would be their first separate journey for decades. Probably the first since the birth of their children, the twins, who were now grown and had lives of their own. Kyme, named after the ocean waves, had embraced her Amazon heritage and divided her time between Artemis Island and Ranyar Cirban, the dwellings built by Legolas and the Dunedain to shelter the few elves that remained in Middle Earth and were slowly leaving for Tol Eresea . It lay less than a day ride away from her parents house, in Ithilien, and the young woman visited her mother as often as she was able to. Cíndar, her twin brother, had been King Elessar's squire and spent many years in Minas Tirith. But he was now a respected leader in Ranyar Cirban; supporting Legolas as a helper and protector of the Fair Folk as they found their way to Valinor. Both of Legolas’s children had found their own path in life. Legolas’s thoughts turned again to the woman in his arms. He reveled in the warmth and the sensation of holding his wife. He buried his nose into her hair, seeking the point in her throat where skin was the softest, her heartbeat palpable. He drank in her scent, wishing he could dwell in the moment forever. The slight change in her breathing told the elf that Cyrene was awakening. But she did not move, or so he thought until he felt her hands moving from his waist, where they had rested during sleep, up his chest, caressing his skin under his tunic. Her fingers trailed the smooth surface lightly, and he could feel exactly the slightly rough texture of his wife’s fingertips as they knowingly sought out the most sensitive and pleasurable spots of his body. Moaning softly, he pulled Cyrene’s body against his and kissed her, letting then his own hands wander the well-known paths of her curves and hollows. Even though the Amazon had never known any other lover in her life, she could not imagine that anyone but Legolas could touch her, fill her, make her senses fly the way he did. Every time they made love, it was almost like the first time, except that both played upon the other’s body with the ease of experienced musicians making their favorite instrument sing, until they joined in their peak, united beyond bodies and time. Cyrene's favorite moments in the aftermath of their lovemaking were as their hearts beat as one and their skin was too sensitive to touch while they felt the physical pleasure ebb. They were together, frozen in time, in bliss and calm. “I will miss you, amaelamin” whispered Legolas, and brushed a tender kiss upon his wife’s brow. Even in this tender moment, he thought of the quest that would take her from him for some days. “So will I, beloved. But time will pass quickly; it always does. Too fast, sometimes,” she said, and looked up into her love’s eyes. “The goddess has been generous, Legolas, but I am aging. Do you ever regret your choice? I sense your longing for Valinor is strong as ever. Most of your kin have sailed, and here you are, bound to an old woman.” The elf sighed and drew Cyrene even closer. “I have no regrets, for the years I share with you are worth my whole life. The call of the sea I cannot deny, Cyrene, but I know that if I had to choose between the Lonely Isle and you, I would make the same choice over and over again. And as we chose life together, we both knew what it meant. I do not care about your age or your exterior. We are bound beyond that.” Cyrene was not satisfied. Every time they discussed the matter, she felt again that she was chaining him down to Middle Earth, to her very existence. And she did not want to be holding the elf back, not ever. Though the thought of his great love for her made the Amazon feel beyond human and able to face any obstacle in their way, her love for him made her crave his sole happiness, no matter what it meant for her. “Legolas,” she whispered. “Yes, amaelamin?” he replied. “Promise me, that when I have passed you will leave for Valinor and live a long and happy life. Promise me that you will not grieve,” Cyrene said, her golden eyes searching for acquiescence in his blue ones. Legolas was surprised. They had never before talked about what would happen once she was dead. And he didn’t ever want to speak of it, as if by simply ignoring the fact that she was mortal and bound to die some day, they had cast a spell to keep them eternally together. “Cyrene, I do not wish to discuss this,” he said and turned his face away from her. But her hands rose to frame his cheeks and drew his eyes back to hers. “Legolas, if it I were the immortal one, wouldn’t you wish the same for me? If you knew that the natural end of your own life would result in the painful fading of the one you love most, wouldn’t you ask the same from me?” Cyrene explained. The elf closed his eyes. He could not make that promise. Once, decades ago, as she had deserted him he had grieved deeply. Now, a lifetime later and feeling as Cyrene was but another half of his own self, he was sure that he would not survive her passing. But Legolas also knew his wife well; Cyrene would not rest until she had the promise. “Cyrene, I cannot tell what will happen years from now, and what the Valar have set in my path,” he told her earnestly. “What would you do if I was taken from you?” The Amazon settled her head back on his chest, holding Legolas’s body close, delaying her reply. It was odd. While she wished that he, the wonderful creature who was a gift to the world, would be able to live eternally after she was gone, deep inside she knew for certain that if he died, she would follow him in a heartbeat. Earlier in her life, before meeting Legolas and falling in love with him, the mere idea would have been ridiculous to her. But now she could barely imagine not having him in her life. “I would … pray to the Goddess to take me as well,” she answered then. The elf did not reply, but held her even tighter. They would not speak about it again until their time had come. *** The next morning, Legolas and Cyrene prepared their journey. Cyrene was to travel to Artemis Island for the funeral of the former Queen Myrine. In the past years, Cyrene and Aella had returned to the island a few times, and Cyrene’s relationship with Alkaia had developed into friendship. Her daughter Kyme had brought the news of Myrine’s death two days before, announcing there were great funeral ceremonies to be held. Aella was to arrive anytime during the day accompany them to the island. Legolas was expected in Gondor, to visit King Elessar and his family. Cyrene and Aella would meet their husbands in Minas Tirith in two weeks time, after Myrine’s funeral. When all was ready for his departure, Legolas gave Cyrene a passionate kiss as she accompanied him to his mount. “I wish I could make this journey with you, amaelamin. Queen Myrine deserved my deepest respect and affection. She was a wise and generous ruler of the Amazons. Her passing is a great loss. Do you wish for me to ride with you to the coast?” he said. Cyrene caressed his cheek. “Aella, Kyme, and I will be riding soon, beloved. You know that though you are a legend among my people, men are still not allowed to enter the island. I will join you in the White City as soon as I can. Give my greetings to Aragorn and Arwen, and also Eowyn and Faramir.” “The White Lady will be looking forward to see you. Though not as much as I will be,” he whispered into her ear, as they held each other tightly once again. ´May the Goddess guide your path’ Cyrene thought as Legolas swung himself on his horse and turned to leave. The Amazon stood looking after her husband until he disappeared completely from her sight. *** “You are not much of a good company this time, my friend,” said Gimli to the elf. Legolas was standing by the main hall’s window, his eyes lost on the landscape. The remaining members of the Fellowship had gathered once again in Gondor. In the past 30 years the friendships had grown closer, even though they had all taken different paths. Never had a year passed without the friends contacting one another or visiting, in spite of their many obligations and growing families. Faramir and Eowyn, as well as Eomer and Lothiriel, used to join the gatherings for the pleasure of seeing their friends, sharing memories, and exchanging news. Legolas enjoyed the meetings and knew that Cyrene enjoyed them as well. As much as the now almost legendary War of the Ring had cost Middle Earth, it had forged strong lifetime long bonds. “I am restless, counting the days until they return from the island. You do not miss Aella?” said Legolas to his friend. “Hmmmm, to be entirely truthful, that woman drives me to lunacy. She is constantly looking for new duties and chores and changes and responsibilities. And yes, I miss her every hour we are apart,” Gimli sighed. “After these many years, she surprises me all the time anew. And I cannot imagine how life was before her. There was life before them, was there not, my friend?” The blonde elf smiled broadly at Gimli’s comment. Aella had become a whirlwind, ever looking for new ways to improve the Glittering Caves and keep Gimli and the dwarves on their toes. Even the children she bore had not slowed her down in her energetic rhythm of life. “In the many centuries of my life, I haven’t met another woman like Aella. And though I am certain that we both lived for long before the Amazons entered our lives, only the last decades count for me as living, my friend.” “I agree with you, Legolas. Still, Aella and Cyrene should be returning from the island in the next days. It is not the first time they have traveled there. What troubles you?” said the dwarf. Legolas eyes settled on his friend. Even though Gimli was not immortal, he had dwarven longevity, which meant that, most probably, he was also aware that he would outlive his human wife. The elf wondered if Gimli had ever thought about it. “Are you aware that Aella will most likely pass away before your time comes, Gimli?” he asked. The shadow that crossed his friend’s face told him that, indeed, the dwarf had spent some thoughts on the matter. Gimli swallowed before answering, “It was not my main concern when I decided to make her my life-mate, Legolas. But yes, in the still of the night or the early darkness before dawn, as we lay together, I think about it and pray to her Gods to give her a long life and thank Aule for every day I may spend with her at my side. Why is the thought troubling you now, my friend?” “Cyrene spoke about my existence after her passing, just before I left for this journey. We had never discussed it before. I must confess I am terrified. There is no life for me without her. You know it. And still, she wanted me to promise her that I would sail to Valinor once she passed away,” explained Legolas, speaking softly, as if he feared to conjure the events by talking about them. He knew that if anybody would understand his feelings, it was most likely Gimli. “It certainly sounds like something Cyrene would request from you. She knows you too well. I say we should forget the conversation and gather joyful thoughts to keep ill tidings at bay. Come, my friend! I hear that Elessar has indeed brought out his finest elvish wine from the cellars to celebrate the gathering. Let us drink the time away until those infamous women arrive here,” said the Lord of the Glittering Caves, patting his companion’s arm and nudging him away from the window and his dark thoughts. *** Kyme was the very likeness of her father. Besides the pointed ears, the lean frame, and the golden, straight hair, her azure eyes were as soft and full of life as Legolas’s own. She stood proud and tall at her mother’s side during the long and solemn ceremonies that accompanied Myrine’s funeral. Feeling as much an Amazon as ever, she questioned again Cyrene’s choice of leaving the Amazons and settling for the world of men. Looking from her mother’s slender figure to her aunt Alkaia’s, she could see that though both were still identical, there were now many features that distinguised them from another, even besides the long scar on Alkaia’s cheek. Alkaia was regal, both in poise and in attire. Her command was ever-present, be it in her posture, her voice, or her demeanor. She had the untamed beauty of the sea, merciless, powerful. Cyrene had long ago exchanged her Amazon warrior garb for the clothing of the elves. But now, at her mother’s funeral, she stood at the side of the funeral pyre wearing the outfit of an Amazon. She owed it to Myrine. Unlike her twin, Cyrene did not radiate command or royalty. She personified serenity, wisdom and peace. Kyme always thought that her mother had given up too much in exchange for being her father’s mate. How could any woman born to such a tradition long to be something other than an Amazon? Kyme observed the former Amazon princess bow before the pyre and then get down on one knee before Alkaia, feeling again the deep love that bound her to Cyrene, but the young woman still could not understand her mother’s choices. When the ceremony was over, Cyrene presented her respects to the Queen while Kyme assisted Aella preparing their return to the mainland. “Aella, you were with my mother when she decided not to return to Artemis Island and to stay with my father instead. Why did she do it? Father is and elf, immortal ... the possibilities for them to have a good life together were against all odds. Why did she leave her freedom and the honor of a warrior’s life behind? How could she?” asked Kyme. The small redhead sighed and pondered her answer for a moment. She turned to the younger woman and was again amazed to see Legolas’s features reflected in the lovely face. “When your mother returned as envoy of Rohan to the Amazons to lead us into battle, I was also disbelieving of her behavior. I knew Cyrene from infancy, Kyme, and I could not understand her fascination with the elf. Until I saw them together. You would have had to see them to believe it. When you look at them, you see your parents, child, but you don’t recognize the way that they drink each other’s presence, as if it were water and both were dying of thirst. For them the sun rises and sets in the other. They gather strength from each other; find solace and peace in each other. I didn’t think it was possible at first, and later I found a mate of my own.” Aella paused. “Cyrene did not ever see her bonding to Legolas as a prison or as relinquishing anything of her life, Kyme. It was a very hard choice for both of them. And I doubt they regret it.” The young woman looked thoughtfully at her mother’s best friend. “For me it was always natural to see them bonded, belonging together. But still, I did not understand Mother leaving her people and way of life behind. Why did she leave the island to begin with?” she asked. Cyrene had never told her children about her sister and the real reasons she had left the Amazons, or the duel they held after that. Alkaia was now Queen, and Cyrene wished to give Kyme the possibility of making her own choices. Aella did not agree with this decision. In her eyes, her friend would always be the one who had made the bravest of sacrifices, and so was rewarded by the Goddess with Legolas’s love. “There were strong reasons at that time, child. She left without even telling me,” replied Aella evasively. Cyrene walked up to them, cutting short the uncomfortable questions. “There have been sightings of Corsairs along the coast. Alkaia wants to send an escort with us and urges us to sail to Dol Amroth. But I told her that we would not need outriders.” “Will we set sail towards Dol Amroth then?” asked Aella anxiously. “No, it would cost us almost two more days’ ride to MinasTirith,” replied Cyrene. “And I suppose that we cannot survive another couple of days without the males?” commented Aella with a mischievous grin. “Life is too short, my friend. Every minute is precious,” was Cyrene’s reply, but she flushed deeply. Kyme did not comment, again surprised at the intensity of her parent’s dependence. Shaking her head, she finished arranging her mount’s tack and led all three horses towards the ship awaiting them. *** “Cíndar, I almost believe that your sister is even a better shot than yourself,” said Legolas to his son, teasing the young man about having bested him in archery. Even if Cíndar looked like his father and twin sister, the roguish smile he flashed his father was a perfect copy of Cyrene’s. “That is, Father, because she has no other chores than practicing day and night. I, on the other hand, have a busy life. And, if I recall correctly, mother is a superb archer, almost your match , which means that the women of the family may be better archers.” Legolas laughed out loud. Seeing his grown son, Legolas could only be amazed that he had sired this man and his sister. It seemed a miracle to the elf. “That boy is his mother’s child. You have no opportunity, elf,” commented Gimli from a couple of steps away. “’Tis true. And since his mother holds my heart, I will tolerate his insolence,” replied Legolas, clapping his son’s shoulder. “Mother and Kyme should be arriving in the morrow,” commented Cíndar, glancing up at the red sun setting in the sky. “Yes, Son. I hope the hours fly until they are here,” the elf said wistfully. Life had been good to them. Legolas continued to thank Elbereth for his good fortune. And he prayed for just a bit more of it. He was conscious of the fact that he was taunting fate, but he still felt the need to try. *** It was past sunset when Aella, Cyrene and Kyme disembarked and bid their farewells to the Amazons still aboard the ship. Cyrene took a deep breath, after setting foot on the mainland, like she always had since she had decided to leave her past life behind. Middle Earth was her home now, and she felt it again every time she returned from the island. The evening was too dark to continue the journey, so the three women decided to make a camp for the night and continue as soon as the sun rose. Kyme took care of the horses, while Aella prepared a fire and Cyrene searched in their packs for something to eat. Cyrene and Aella were jesting with each other by the fire, but the younger Amazon did not join them. Her battle-honed senses told her that there was something strange in the air that night, and she was restless. Aella took over warming the food, as Cyrene walked to her daughter. “Are you well, Kyme? Is something amiss?” she asked the younger woman. “Mother, there is something strange in the night. Do you feel it?” Kyme replied, her eyes trying to see into the darkness surrounding them. Cyrene’s demeanor changed instantly. She was again the Amazon, alert, reaching to her surroundings for any signs of danger. Though she could also not define what was amiss … nothing she could see or hear … and that gave her the clue. It was too silent. There were no sounds of nature. There was tension in the air. Carefully, Cyrene made a sign to her daughter to move naturally and retreat to the fire, while her hand loosened casually the leather strap securing the labryss to her waist and she let a low whistle towards her lifelong battle-companion. Aella continued by the fire, but her hands moved to pull the quivers and bows they had set down and also loosened the strap of her battle-axe. Cyrene spoke to her daughter very softly. “We are being observed. As soon as we are attacked, you run for your horse and ride towards Minas Tirith. We shall follow.” Kyme hesitated and a protest died on her lips. She knew there was no point in arguing with her mother. The chance that the three of them could overcome any attacker was miniscule. If the attackers were less armed or manned they wouldn’t dare to strike against them. So they had to assume they were outnumbered. Their only chance was to escape into safety. The moment Cyrene and Kyme had reached the fire, the first arrow struck the ground, close to where Aella, who had rolled away, had been standing seconds before. Aella tried to find cover behind a rock; cursing the unprotected location they had chosen for the camp. Cyrene shoved Kyme towards the mounts and rolled to the ground, also searching for cover. Once she settled behind bushes, she turned to see Aella, who tossed her abow and quiver. Cyrene turned to see Kyme pausing in her race towards the mounts and looking back. Cyrene smiled towards her daughter and made a sign to get to the horses and escape. Kyme looked towards her mother and Aella, huddled behind rocks and bushes and the horses. She was closer to the animals and maybe, if she rode away, she would be able to distract the attackers and give the two other Amazons a chance to escape as well. It was worth a try. Gripping her labryss in one hand, Kyme ducked and ran for the horses, jumping on her mount and spurring it hard into the darkness. Once her daughter had left the camp, Cyrene dared to look over the bushes she was hiding behind and recognized the silhouette of some of the aggressors in the dim firelight: corsairs, or rather the pitiful remains of what had been the Corsairs of Umbar. After Aragorn and his Army of the Forsworn had decimated their ranks with help of the warrior women, the survivors of Pelargir had gathered and survived by robbing travelers and attacking small villages. But they were the ancestral foes of the Amazons, and their vow of revenge was as fierce as ever. Muttering curses under her breath, Cyrene recognized that the only chance she and Aella’s had was to outwit the enemy. As close as they were to the fire, they were easy targets. The Amazon made signs to Aella and while the smaller woman grabbed their weapons and also made a run for the horses, Cyrene threw herself towards the small campfire, trying to put it out with dust from the ground. She heard arrows whistling around her. When the fire sputtered and died, the battle was lit only by the stars. Cyrene crouched and made her way to where Aella was covering her retreat by the mounts. The sudden darkness gave the Amazons time to mount and engage escape. The horses danced until the riders were on top, and then they bolted up the coastline, towards the White City. The corsairs had regrouped again and recovered their orientation, directing another rain of arrows towards the fleeing women. Aella turned around to see the camp they had fled and saw Cyrene’s mount falling a bit behind but nevertheless following her companions. For now, they just had to run until they had gained a safe distance from the enemy. After a while, as she deemed it safe, Aella slowed her mount to allow her friend to catch up. “We surely managed to escape by a hair’s-width this time, didn’t we?” she asked her approaching friend, but the budding smile on her lips died as she saw Cyrene’s pale face and her pained expression. Cyrene hung low over her mount’s neck and seemed to be holding on to the horse’s mane desperately. Even in the dark, Aella saw the shaft of an arrow jutting from her best friend’s back. “We tempted fate one time too many, Aella,” was Cyrene’s forced response. *** Faramir, Gimli, Legolas, and Aragorn were discussing the news that had arrived from the raids of corsairs into the borders of Ithilien when they were interrupted by Cíndar’s harsh entrance. As soon as the elf looked upon the face of his son, he knew that something had happened, and while he inwardly summoned all the calm and strength he could, he could voice only one word to Cíndar. “Where?” “The Houses of Healing, Father. They are there,” the young man replied, his voice laced with sadness. Legolas never remembered afterwards how he took the stairs to the Houses of Healing with wide strides, running faster then he had ever before, wanting to see what happened and at the same time hoping that this was a nightmare. In the few minutes he needed to reach the top, all possible scenarios flashed before his eyes: horrors that could have befallen his daughter, his wife, or Aella. A silent prayer formed upon his lips. When he reached the top of the stairs, he found Eowyn and Kyme in the entrance. His daughter’s face was a mask of pain and despair, and tears slipped down her cheeks. He embraced her as hard as he could and caressed her fine gold hair. “Child, are you well?” he whispered. Kyme sobbed against his tunic. A wave of relief washed over him, and hope and fear rose again, as he saw that his daughter was unharmed. “Father, I failed her! It is my fault. If I would have stayed at her side …” she was saying. Legolas’s heart skipped a beat. He did not want to know, but he needed to ask, “Where is your mother, Kyme?” But Kyme could not speak. Eowyn replied instead. “Inside, Legolas. And she is waiting for you.” Inside the building, in the main room, Legolas came face-to-face with his most profound fear, the terrible image he had never been able to quell. On a bed, lay his wife. Arwen tended to a deep wound on her back. Aella stood at her friend’s side. When Legolas entered the room, Aella stepped away to make place for Legolas, who fell to his knees at the bed’s side. “Amaelamin …,” he whispered, setting a soft kiss upon her pale brow. Cyrene opened her eyes slowly and smiled up at him. “I knew I would see you again.” Legolas forced a smile in return, in spite of the cold fist gripping his heart. He modulated his voice also, commanding a light tone despite his inner terror. “Of course, we are husband and wife and that is a bond intended to last forever, my love”. Arwen stepped away from the bed, and as Legolas looked up and as his eyes met the eyes of the Queen of Gondor, he understood. Desperation invaded his mind, and a voice inside his head screamed for Aragorn, for better elven medicine, for anything to stop what seemed unstoppable. This was not her time. He had planned for at least a score of years yet. A human lifetime grown full before it must end. He was not prepared to lose her. Not now. He took a ragged breath and wrenched his eyes back to her beloved face. The extreme pallor, the shadows under her clear golden eyes, the shallow breathing were unmistakable. He knew the wound was mortal. “Legolas, I know I will not last long. I can feel it. We must speak about things and I ……” Cyrene said. She tried to rise up, but failed with a grimace of pain. Still, she did not fall back on the mattress, for her husband’s arms where holding her, supporting her weight. “Cyrene, do not ……” he started to say, but she raised a weary hand and set it upon his lips. “I do not have time. I think now that I never did. And still every minute with you was worth a lifetime. You have to promise me that you will not let grief take you. When the time comes, you will sail and join your kin in Valinor. Promise me, Legolas,” the Amazon said. Her hand softly caressed his cheek in in a gesture he knew so well it hurt. Legolas felt tears gathering in his eyes and his throat tightening. “Please, I cannot promise this to you. Cyrene, you are my life.” Her eyes were filled with tears as well. “My love, you cannot go where I go, and in death we will never be united. If you live on, and guard the memories of us, I will be with you forever. It is my wish, I beg you.” They were not alone in the room, but it was as if the rest of the world had vanished. Legolas hesitated a minute, and the words he finally came slowly and with effort: “I promise.” Cyrene relaxed in her love’s arms. She could now let go. “Where are Aella, Kyme and Cíndar? Where is Gimli? And is Eowyn here as well?” she asked weakly. Aella stepped forward into Cyrene’s view and so did Gimli, Eowyn, and the twins. Cyrene smiled at them all. “Thank you for a good life, my friends,” she said. Her eyes rested with deep love on her children. “Thank you for being mine and letting me be yours, my children.” Aella’s tears fell freely, but she smiled as she gripped Cyrene’s forearm. “Thank you, Cyrene. You are favored of the Goddess, and I am blessed by your friendship”. Cyrene’s return grip was soft, and her eyes sought the window. “It is almost dawn. Take me outside, beloved?” Legolas tenderly took her in his arms and carried her to the garden. Eowyn, Kyme, and Cíndar said their farewells as they passed through the last doorway. Cyrene’s hand lingered a moment on Gimli’s cheek. “Take care of him, my friend,” she said. Gimli kissed Cyrene’s fingers, and swore, “As long as I draw breath, I shall, my friend.” Legolas settled them under a tree, on a height from which they could see the whole South of Gondor, from the plains just below the walls, clear out to the river vale.Cyrene relaxed into his embrace. The elf savored every precious minute he held his wife close, wishing he could fight destiny and guard her. The thought of having to move on with life without her was too painful to even consider. But he had promised it to Cyrene. As if she could read his thoughts, she spoke softly, “Remember I told you that if you were taken from me I would follow at once?” Legolas nodded. “Yes, you did. And I wish you would not ask me to live with the loss of you …” “I must amend what I said before. If there were reason powerful enough for me to go on living without you, I would. You have still so much ahead of you, beloved,” she said. ”Move on, one day at the time, and keep our love alive. Thank you, for this was the best life I could ever wish for and you gave it to me, Legolas. I love you. I always will.” Cyrene gently pulled his head down towards her for a kiss. “Amin mella lle, Cyrene. My love, my wife,” he breathed into her hair. They sat there entwined, sharing the sunset, until darkness surrounded them and he felt her heartbeat slowly fade into final silence. Fin *** Author’s Note: I want to thank to all who made this story possible, helped and supported it and me for the last 14 months (WOWIE … I am a really slow writer!) My eternal thanks to Una, Deb and Viv (all three who read and liked this story before it was readable, kicking my butt to continue and betaing) To Katt, Terri and Chris for their bugging and bouncing. To the Smut Faeries altogether for their support and patience. To all readers who made my day and gave me courage with their reviews and the wonderful fellow LOTR writers who kept the muse alive. Okay, that was my Oscar acceptance speech. Well it was my first novel-length finished fic ever, so bear with me. *** Dear friends, The sequel to this story is ready and posted . I am very grateful for any ideas or suggestions you may have, as well for your impressions upon reading the story. Thank you for your support, patience and love! Maram68