Chapter 8-Taking Leave

Chapter 8- Taking Leave

It was early the next morning when I awoke. The air was warm and already, fingers of sunlight were seeping through the canopy. Lothlórien was beautiful; even in the pale morning light.

I lay in bed for a few minutes, taking in my companions in their sleeping state. The Hobbits it seemed could fall asleep anywhere at any time. Their faces were so serine and content; I loved listening to them talk in their sleep. Often I've heard them remark about a place in the Shire called the Prancing Pony, but still I hadn't asked them about it.

Gimli snored terribly at night, but I had finally gotten used to it. Boromir and Aragorn were restless, constantly turning this way and that; always ready for an unexpected attack or a surprise. Legolas however, slept as still as I've ever seen. He was quiet, but shot up like an arrow when he needed to. Usually he was the first to wake in the morning, but on this occasional morning, I was the first to wake.

Quietly, I rolled out of bed and tiptoed past my sleeping friends. I had grown to think of them all as family in the past three months. They were the family I had never had- and I loved all of them. I loved their senses of humor, their personalities, the way we all looked out for each other- more importantly, I loved them for giving me a chance.

I finally broke through the mallorn tree roots and into the clearing, and was welcomed by Haldir. "Good morning, Lady Lothrayel," he bowed his head.

"Good morning, Haldir," I greeted him, unsure why he was here so early.

He nodded across the clearing, silently asking me to follow him. I abided to his request and followed him, ready to defend myself in need be. "Hear me out," he asked, after we were out of hearing distance from my campsite. "I'm sorry for the way I treated you and your Companions when you arrived. I had no right to behave as I did, and I apologize."

A faint smile danced across my lips; "I am not one to hold a grudge, sir. I accept your apology, on one term."

"Name it."

"Forgive me for being so discourteous," I frowned. "I did not know you, nor did I trust you. This is nonexclusive of my conduct, but I ask for your forgiveness none the less."

"You have it, my lady."

There was a twinkle in his eyes and a smile on his face.

I couldn't help but smile back. "I'm glad that we are on fair terms."

"As am I, Lothrayel. You are not one I would like to call an enemy. A maiden as fair as you deserves all the friendships in the world."

I blushed, "I'm flattered."

"Would you grace me with a favor?" he asked.

I nodded.

"My sister, Brewndyawin recently left Lothlórien in search of her own adventure. We last heard that she was in Rohan... If you happen to find her-," his eyes were pleading. "Please ask her to return when she can."

"It will be done, Haldir."

"Thank you."

I averted my eyes toward the bath houses and the elder Elf chuckled. "My Lady Galadriel has had your Fellowship's garments washed. I will send someone along shortly to give them to you." He bid me farewell and hurried off.

I stood alone in the courtyard, still wondering about what had occurred last night. I had almost kissed Legolas- or maybe he had almost kissed me. But something had happened that shattered the moment... What did I do? I wondered.

"Good morning," I heard a voice behind me.

I turned and a thin smile crossed my lips. "Hello Boromir."

"I couldn't help but notice what almost happened this last evening..." he winked at me. "Legolas is a fine Elf, Rayel."

I blushed. "But he can't possibly feel the same way about me as I do toward him..." my voice drifted off.

"I beg to differ," he smiled, bringing his hand to my cheek. "Although I am not sure how Elves romance each other or how that works. I can assure you that any mere man would be honored to catch your eye or earn your affection. Needless to say, you looked beautiful last night. You still do."

I smiled, "You are a dear friend, Boromir. I know that someday, you will make an exceptional husband. The woman who marries you, will truly be a marvel."

Boromir drew me into his arms and embraced me. "If it makes you feel any better, dear," he whispered into my ear. "I do believe Legolas has feelings for you. In fact, I do believe he's watching us now."

I turned my head slightly, catching sight of him as he sat quietly beside Aragorn. The two were whispering about something and I chuckled.

"Thank you," I whispered back, drawing away from my friend. "For everything," I winked.

He shook his head, "You're welcome."

I hurried back to the mallorn tree to gather my things and pack for the upcoming journey. Who knew how long it would be before my brother decided to leave. Aragorn was already unpredictable, and I had a feeling that his unpredictability was only going to worsen from here.

I reached into my satchel and dug out the map and one of my pencils. It had been too long since I had documented on my chart where we had traveled. I circled Moria, and traced a line across the mountains, documenting the path we had taken, all the way to Lothlórien. I exhaled quietly, finding me sketch book.

With shaky fingers, I skimmed over the drawings I had done weeks earlier. There was one of Gandalf with his pipe between his lips and a smile on his face. Wisps of smoke billowed around his face and the lines under his eyes grinned with unknown mysticism.

There was another of Merry and Pippin attacking Boromir and I couldn't help but laugh out loud, remembering that day. Oh how long ago it seemed... Back when the world was simple.

In the pages was one of Legolas and me having a snowball fight. He had gleaming eyes and a broad smile, looking as if he was about to pummel me with snow. The snow flakes billowed around us and my face looked priceless, full of laughter and panic.

"You're a talented artist, my lady," Sam complimented, peering over my shoulder.

I jumped, frightened.

"Oh!" the Hobbit exclaimed. "I didn't mean to startle you." He apologized. "I just heard you laugh and well, it's been awhile since I've heard you laugh. I was just wondering what brought you such happiness."

"Oh, Samwise!" I chuckled. "I have a drawing for you too." I reached inside my satchel and pulled out a folded piece of paper. "This is for you, I meant to give it to you sooner but..." my voice drifted off. "The time wasn't right."

Sam took the paper from my hand and opened it, a small smile played across his lips. "Thank you, Rayel." A tear slid down his cheek. "Thank you." He hugged me and I embraced the small Halfling.

"You're welcome."

Inside the folded piece of paper was a sketch I had done of Sam and his pony Bill. Originally it was going to be a surprise but I knew he needed something to cling onto. He needed it now.

Sam thanked me again and woke his friends. I watched them in silence as they began to pack, chattering away about breakfast. I wished I could adjust as quickly as they could; act like nothing had happened. Gimli was begrudgingly packing up his belongs, as was everyone else. Hastily, I tossed my few remaining belongings into my satchel, wondering if Haldir was ever going to send someone to deliever our clothes.

I did not want to wear a dress like this on our journey.

As if reading my mind, an Elf maiden brought a basket of fresh clothes, setting them before Aragorn. "My Lady has had your garments mended and washed. I hope they are to you satisfactory, my lord." She bowed her head, and hurried away before he could reply.

Eagerly I darted forward reaching toward the clean clothes and locating my trousers, underclothes and blouse. "Oh thank, Freya!" I exclaimed. "I was afraid I'd have to wear a dress to the very Doors of Mordor!"

Aragorn chuckled, "The idea of you fighting orcs in that makes me laugh, sister."

I glared at him. "I can cause damage in this if I so choose, however, I don't wish to soil my dress. I might need something presentable in the future."

My brother shook his head. "Go get changed, we're leaving soon."

I laughed, standing to my tiptoes and kissing my brother's cheek. "Of course." I hurried away, excitedly awaiting the adventure ahead of us. "Don't any of you look!" I warned over my shoulder. "I'm changing!" I ducked behind the walls and made sure there wasn't anyone around.

I slipped into my trousers, and undid the back of my dress, hastily pulling my blouse over my head and covering my bare back and shoulders. I let the dress fall to the ground and stpped backward, leaning down to scoop up my new garment. I rounded the corner, feeling free as I made my way back to the campsite to gather my armor.

"You look like yourself again," Legolas said quietly. It was the first time he had spoken since our almost kiss last night.

"I'll take that as a compliment," I replied.

He looked down, suddenly interested in the grass. "How did you sleep?" he questioned, looking up to meet my gaze. His eyes were clouded, unsure and confused.

I chewed my lip. "Not as well as I wished."

He nodded understandingly. "I hope it had nothing to do with the Mirror?"

"Part of it."

"And the other half?"

I swallowed. "I think you know the answer."

He grimaced. "I'm sorry."

I shrugged, "I should go finish packing... I fear Aragorn will want to leave soon, and I don't want to be left behind. Nor do I wish to delay our Quest."

He nodded quietly.

I turned away, silently making my way back to our campsite. There were tears in my eyes; tears that I was hardly keeping at bay. I tossed my clothes into my satchel and slipped into my boots. Warily, I fastened my belt, my blades gently swaying at my side and my hunting knife gleaming in the daylight. My fingers drifted down to my neck where they met the Evenstar necklace. I traced the stone gently; it tingled, sending shivers down my spine.

"Rayel?" I looked up to meet my brother's eyes. "Are you ready?"

I nodded, "Yes," I forced a smile, praying he didn't see my tears. "Let's go."

We all stood at the bank of the river, in a long line, side to side; before us stood Lord Celeborn, Galadriel and Haldir, bearing gifts. Haldir and several of his men fastened Leaves or Lorien to our cloaks, small emerald leaves with silver clasps. They were beautiful symbols of friendship and peace.

"May you have a safe trip, Lady Lothrayel," Haldir bid me farewell.

"Call me Rayel, Haldir," I ordered. "For you are my friend and this is what my friends call me."

"Thank you, Rayel," his eyes twinkled. "May the light of the Eldar bless you on your journey." He backed away, pulling his hands behind his back and nodding farewell.

"May these cloaks help shield you from unfriendly eyes," Celeborn said, gesturing to our new capes. His wife, the Lady of Light approached, and he drew back, standing beside Haldir.

The Lady of Light stood before the Prince of Mirkwood. "My gift for you, Legolas, is a bow of the Galadrien; worthy of the skill of our Woodland kin."

A fair female elf came forward and offered him a beautiful, curved bow.

His eyes brightened and he took the bow from her hands, studying it carefully. He brought the string back, marveling at the master craftsman of the Elves. "Diol llie, amin arewn." He said, dipping his head with respect.

Galadriel smiled and continued down the line to Merry and Pippin. "These are the daggers of Noldering." I watched as the two Hobbits unsheathed their new weapons, in awe of the design and weightlessness of the blades. "They have already seen service in war..."

Pippin swallowed hard, sending the Lady a frightened look.

"Do not fear, young Peregrine Took. You will find your courage... And for you, Samwise Gamgee," she turned to the blonde Halfling. "Elven rope, made of heathline," she handed the Hobbit a large coil of silver cable.

"Thank you, my Lady," he smiled gratefully. "But you wouldn't happen to have any more of those shiny daggers, would you?"

The Sorceress chuckled and paused in front of Gimli. "And what gift would a dwarf ask from the Elves?" she questioned.

"Nothing," he shook his head. "Except to look upon the Lady Galadriel one last time. For she is more fair than the woven jewels beneath the Gulf."

The Lady laughed, smiling broadly and sending a flash of pink across Gimli's face.

He turned away grumbling but then turned to face her once more. "Actually, there was one thing..." He whispered something to her that I could not understand and in return, Galadriel handed him something that I couldn't see.

She turned to face my brother. "I have nothing greater to give, than the gift you already bare," she placed her fingers to the Evenstar he wore around his neck. I gasped quietly, recognizing it immediately: it was Arewn's. "Nesh he liy, amin gorg I' ein en' Arewn Undomiel vin rato elo." She said quietly, and my heart sank.

"For her love, I fear the grace of Arewn Evenstar will soon diminish." I translated.

Aragorn sighed, "Amin elod cael he kel los dori, ent na faer he gwaith," he replied, his voice breaking with emotion. "Amin elod cael he teshuel I' kirya nae Valinor."

"I would have her leave these shores, and be with her people. I would have her take the ship to Valinor."

"That choice is yet before her," the Lady of Light whispered. "You have your own choice yet to make, Aragorn... To rise above the height of all your fathers since the days of Elendil... Or to fall into darkness. You are all that is left of your kin."

Aragorn exhaled quietly, swallowing hard.

"Namaarie," she dipped her head. "Eller naa sai llie cael aeleth nae uum." She brought her hand to his face and smile sadly. "Lye andu n' aelo au, Elessar."

"Farwell. There is much you have yet to do. We shall not meet again, Elessar."

She smiled down at Frodo, "Farewell, Frodo Baggins. I give you the Light Eärendil, our most beloved star. May it be a light to you in dark places, when all other lights go out."

She turned to me a smile on her glowing face. "Namarrie, my darling," she kissed the top of my head and handed me silver ring with luminous blue gem in the center. "My gift for you is your mother's wedding band... May you find the same happiness that she did," she produced another silver band, plain and ordinary. "This was your Ada's... may you give it to the one who holds your heart when the time comes." She slid my mother's band onto my ring finger and the second sphere onto a my Evenstar chain.

"Diol llie," I whispered thankfully.

"Stay with Legolas," she whispered, her thoughts piercing my mind.

She gifted Boromir a new blade, "And for you, Son of Gondor, a blade from Caras Ghaladon. May it protect you and may you wield it with the strength of your forefathers."

The Elves bid us goodbye, and we made our way down the hillside to the river Anduin. There small boats at the docks to take us down the river. On the docks, sat bundles of provisions and several blankets that had been left for our comfort.

I tossed my satchel into one of the boats as Legolas opened one of the provison wrappings. "Lembas," he smiled. "Elvish whey bread," he explained to Merry and Pippin, who were already situated in their own little boat. Legolas took a nibble and sighed contentedly. "One small bite is enough to fill the stomach of a grown man." He packed it away and hurried off to discuss something with Aragorn.

"How many did you eat?" Merry whispered to a content-looking Pippin.

Pippin smiled lucidly, "Four." He answered, belching and turning a sickly shade of green.

I chuckled; shaking my head as I nearly ran into Boromir. "I'll ride with them," he smiled. "I believe there is one more available space with Gimli and Legolas."

I blushed, "You work in mysterious ways, Boromir."

"Only for you," he ruffled my hair before sinking into the boat with the Hobbits.

At the timber line, I heard Celebron warn Aragorn about the Eastern Shore and something about orcs baring the white hand of Sauroman. I shuddered, restraining the urge to eavesdrop. Frodo and Sam sat in a boat, awaiting my brother and the third boat was empty, other than some supplies.

Legolas beat me to the boat, assisting Gimli into the water-tight vessel. The Prince of Mirkwood turned to me with a courteous smile and offered me his hand. "Need help?" he asked.

"Yes, thank you," I smiled, taking his hand in mine and stepping into the rocking boat. Somehow I ended up in the middle, between the Elf and the dwarf and causing me some slight discomfort. Legolas slipped into the boat behind me and his legs brushed against mine as he took up an oar, waiting for my brother's lead.

Aragorn silently descended into his vessel and led us out of the Elven harbor and down the River Anduin. I watched as Galadriel waved farewell from the shore and I knew that I would never see my grandmother again.

We were quiet for some time, silently listening to the water and the chirping of the birds. Our boat was the last, and due to the lack of Hobbits, we also had the quietest dinghy. "I have taken my worst wound at this parting. I have looked the last upon that which is fairest," Gimli said, finally breaking the silence. "Henceforth, I will call nothing fair but her gift."

"What was it?" Legolas and I asked in usion.

He was quiet for a moment and then replied; "I asked her for but one hair from her golden head... She gave me three."

Both of us smiled at the dwarf, exchanging a knowing glance.

The significance of his gift was so far above his knowledge. The gift of three golden hairs was something to be proud of, especially since at one time, a great noble Elf asked for the same thing and was refused.

The small river, widened into a huge, wide current and the scenary shifted from the forests of Lothlórien to mountains and pine trees. I must admit the calmness of the water and the stillness of the air lulled me into a light slumber. In this time, my head fell back into Legolas' chest and his warmth caused me to sleep soundly for many hours.

I might have slept for the entire day, had Legolas not whispered my name and shaken me softly. "Hmm?" my eyes fluttered open and I looked up at him curiously.

"You've slept the day away, dear," Gimli chuckled. "It's time to harbor for the night."

I bolted up, "I'm so sorry that I fell asleep on you!" I apologized frantically to Legolas.

He smiled, "It's fine, Rayel," he assured me. "You were exhausted."

It was already dark out, and just ahead I watched Boromir and Aragorn pull their boats up on the shore while the Hobbits scurried up onto the dry land. As our little vessel sailed into shallow waters, Legolas jumped out, splashing into the knee-high water and dragging our craft onto the beach. Gimli and I jumped out to help and I winced; the water was freezing.

The Hobbits pulled out their bedding and were fast asleep in a matter of minutes. Because I had slept all day, I volunteered with Boromir to take the first watch. Aragorn was hesitant at first but eventually agreed staying up with us for the first couple hours.

Legolas and Gimli fell into a deep slumber near the Hobbits, exhausted.

I stood beside Aragrorn and Boromir when a quiet splash caught our attention. We slunk silently down to the shore and I sighed. "It's just a log, floating downstream." But the log dipped below the surface and I caught sight of a boy hand gripping to the bark.

"It's Gollum," Aragorn announced to us. "I had hoped we would lose him on the River, but he's too clever."

Boromir and I exchanged a look. "And what if he were to alert our enemies of our location?" the Gondorian asked my brother.

"What indeed?" he answered cryptic.

Hours later, my watch was over and I retired to sleep. I was restless for a while, tossing and turning. My eyes drifted over to Legolas who slept just to my right. As if knowing I was watching, his eyes fluttered open. "What's wrong?" he asked drowsily.

"I'm scared," I confessed weakly.

Legolas scooted closer to me and wrapped his arm around my waist, drawing me into his arms. "I'm here, Ray... Nothing can harm you. I won't let anything harm you," he promised.

I inhaled his scent and smiled. "Promise?" I whispered.

Our faces were only inches apart, and his nose brushed against mine. "I promise." His lips grazed my forehead. "Sleep, Rayel." He pulled a blanket over our shoulders and that's how we fell asleep.