EPILOGUE

.

LEGOLAS:

.

I walk in a land of mist and starlight... there upon the moon lays the black of the sky, eclipsed by the strange feeling that troubles the peace I have felt. White blossoms surround the branches of grey trees like the thick clouds on a storm weathered day.

There I am faced with two roads. One that is dark, the other questionable. But there is no choice. I know I must take the shadowy pathway that leads into the unknown... Without a will I follow the path. With trudging steps I walk. The doom that awaits cannot be avoided.

Until a light shines behind me, cutting through the darkness like an arrow through parchment. Over my shoulder I gaze upon the celestial being of the heavens, with hair of golden rivers down her delicate shoulders. The dress of pure white like pearls she wears. The Lady of Light. We knew her as Lady Galadriel.

She approaches me with graceful footsteps and looks into my unworthy eyes. "I was sent by Eru Ilúvatar, to take you down a path from this one," the flowing voice from says to me without her lips moving, like a speech within my mind. "He has given you the chance to walk again. To breathe again. He has heard the prayers of your beloved. And He is to give you another chance. To instruct you to care for her as long as you live. Will you do this?"

I close my mouth and nod quickly to agree, not being able to find words worthy of His forgiveness.

She smiles almost amused as she leans further in and speaks. "Love creates bonds that even death cannot break, Legolas Thranduilion. And with it, you can save her from a fate which awaits her. Do this for her and for He whom strengthens you. Then you will see peace."

"I will," I finally speak to her.

She smiles so elegantly and stretches forward to place a gentle kiss on my forehead. From this the light takes me. And I am home.

This was the dream I had the day I died before the Black Gate. This was my forgiveness and vow that I was to protect and care for my darling the rest of my days on this world. And now I finally understood what she meant by her words. That I had the power to save her. Because of love. And because of the love given to my by our All Creator.

My task is not done. But it has just begun.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

"Legolas can you feed Morier?" my wife cuts into my thoughts. She packs away things in her satchel for the trip. "I brought up his food from the forest."

"Is that why I sense the odor of a corpse?"

"Yes," she answers plainly.

.

VIL:

.

I stuff my dress into my bag and fasten the button. But then I look over at Morier who wags his tale and runs to my elf, leaping into the bed where he reclines and licking his face.

I smile as Legolas laughs and shrugs away from the dog. Morier is a white wolf we found in the woods. Since Thranduil has been trying to return Mirkwood to its former glory like Greenwood the Great, there have been more creatures and critters living amongst the trees.

Some of the other elves of Lórien aided him is destroying Dol-Guldur. And since then this place has been an autumn woods again. Even flowers bloom, making this forest growing and turning green once more. Once again this place is starting to look like an elven residence.

I even suggested to Thranduil that we create an outdoor kingdom like Lothlórien and Rivendell. He laughed and replied, "I will keep the idea in mind," looking at me with a star in his eye that hides an amused smile.

We found the wolf out under the tree tops and he was a bit... wild. But once he saw me he ran towards me with his tail playful and Legolas fell in love right away. That is the beauty of my still grasped power.

He has nicknames now thanks to my husband, that include Mellon (friend), Voronwer (loyal one), Usquener (smelly one), and Avarier (stubborn one)...

Legolas stands up after scratching the animal's ear to retrieve its breakfast.

I laugh as he opens the leather sack that holds the fresh meat.

Clearly he detests the stench. And he looks a teenage girl doing dissection as he reaches into the bag and pulls out the animal, looking at it like I had murdered a child. Elves.

The dog leaps up and catches its prey, gobbling it like his last meal.

"I need to teach you to eat like him," I snicker.

He lifts a brow.

"You need to get over that girly behavior boy. Our kids are gonna eat meat."

He frowns and just shakes his head.

There is a knocking at the door and I stand up. When I open it I find Kel standing there. He looks at me with his lips pursed, smiling slightly out of obligation.

"Hey Kel, come on in," I chuckle.

He bows politely and enters our chamber.

I walk around and pull my fingers through my hair in thought. "Legolas have you packed everything?" I ask.

"Yes, love," he responds without looking at me, petting Morier on the head with a smile.

"Ada already left right?"

"Yes he left two days ago, don't you remember?"

"Oh yeah," I bite my lip. "So Kel, uh just take Morier outside every three hours and make sure he doesn't die... um and that he has plenty of water. You'll have to catch a few rabbits or squirrels to feet him. Other than that it should be fine... here take a pence for emergency."

I flick him a coin and grab my bag.

He smirks. "Well this will be the first time I am doing such," he chuckles nervously.

"You'll do fine," I wave him off and pull my bag to my shoulder. "Let's go, babe." I smile at Legolas while he still pets Morier.

He breathes and finally stands up from the dog. Taking his satchel the two of us walk out from the door. As we leave I can hear the dog begin to whine.

Legolas looks back with so much sympathy at his child.

I smile with the same expression. "He'll be fine."

He looks at me innocently and I shake my head.

We walk down the steps and open the doors to the outside bridge from the Woodland Realm.

The smell of sap and honey fills my nose when I breathe in the scent. Russet leaves fall from the winding branches as the sunbeams shine through the trees. A catch a squirrel from the corner of my eye as it runs up a tree trunk.

Birds chirp throughout the landscape. And I walk forward to the fell beast already packed with food and weapons for the journey.

Thranduil had to leave early because he took horses along with a couple other elves to travel with him.

We approach our waiting beast that has acquired the name Astalder, as he stands there scratching his wing with his teeth. But his head turns to us, armored with brown leather Mirkwood helm, bridal, and saddle. He adjusts himself to let us attach our bags. And I hop onto his back after Legolas does. Soon we rise above the tree tops and head south.

The sun glows over the clouds that layer in the sky subtly. Beams of light shine over my home.

After the defeat of Sauron we returned to Middle Earth to bury our dead and mourn for them. I just remember Kel looking almost as bad as Legolas did while I was dying when we buried my best friend, Niniliath Willow. I wonder if there was something there between them, for I didn't think anyone else would be more sorrowful about her passing than I.

Neither Legolas nor Thranduil could cheer me up that day.

But once I moved on, following the advice Ada told me when we first met. To not carry the weight of the dead.

Legolas and I honeymooned at Lothlórien after the debts were settled. And I got to meet Lady Galadriel officially, figuring out that she was the woman who saved my Legolas on the battle field.

Then we returned to The Woodland Realm, where we agreed to stay for a while, officially moved into the prince's chamber. Instead of everyone having an individual home in the kingdoms of elves, they each have a washing place and bed chamber. All other activities are shared like some kind of hotel. We all eat together. And the outdoor grounds are public and so are most areas. Even though the westerners do not live like this, the elves do and I have also grown up with a similar habit.

Even so, Legolas and my chamber is our sanctuary. It's a place for just the two of us to share and so I find comfort there.

The others? Oh yes, well Éowyn became Queen of the Golden Halls after our return, ruling over Rohan with wisdom and spirit. She kept the ear piece I gave her so we can call each other from across Middle Earth and catch up. I still have my tablet from Earth that Aragorn still had in his backpack. I let him keep the backpack and the flashlight.

Gimli returned to Erebor but since he is so close he visits often... that is when the king allows it... He still is iffy about dwarves. But he seems to be alright about this one.

Faramir returned to Gondor to help keep it in tact for a while, still appointed as steward like his father.

Gandalf goes his ways through Middle Earth. We see him occasionally. And when we do he tells us about his adventures and travels.

Thranduil returned with us. And though I see him on that throne like I did when I first arrived in the Woodland Realm, now I can look up at him and smile. And he'll return it, with a cute wink. I have brought out the true side of the king that most do not see. For that I feel lucky. And I know that he is happier now. He smiles more, and laughs too. Everyone notices the difference in him. And that makes me the most glad I could be.

The four hobbits returned to Hobbiton where they can live in peace, away from war and suffering, though the world is now in a long awaited tranquility. Frodo was promoted mayor and Bag End his place of rule. Sam is still his gardener I believe but now with a higher status than before, aiding him with his mayor decisions and documents. I got to visit the Shire when they returned. And it was so beautiful. How I wished I would have grown up in a place as quiet and bright as it. Everywhere my eyes could gaze I saw green, and flowers, trees, grass, gardens, animals, cheerful people, and tiny little round doors to the homes under the hills. Hobbits are the most friendly folk I have met as well. And I enjoyed their company so much. Legolas seemed to enjoy seeing the environment as well, and amused at how tiny everyone was there, hobbits only being about three and a half foot tall.

There is a stillness to everyone, a glad one. And even though we lost souls along the way, we know that they are in a place we are envious of.

And for that we all live on.

Legolas and I have agreed that we want to spend our early married life travelling before we have kids and a permanent home (though we will still explore after we have them so that the children will also get some adventure).

.

.

The journey south takes us a few days, five to be exact. I can't imagine how long it took Ada to get down here on horseback.

And we arrive in the white city of Minas Tirith at dawn.

I stand with my kin at the top of the courtyard, as citizens from Gondor and people from all over Middle Earth are gathered for the celebration.

The Royal Gondorian guards line the sides of the archway that holds the doors that lead into the main halls, and down the steps on either side. They stand proud, with spears in hand, and shields in the other, shields that bare the emblem of the white tree.

These guards also line the walkway that leads up to the arch, fencing in all that attend. But there are so many people that it covers the entire overlook with only the isle to part them.

I stand up front near the steps behind the first row of guards, Legolas to my left, and Thranduil to my right. Standing by us are Éowyn and Faramir. On the opposite side of the isle in front are Lady Arwen, Lord Elrond, and others from Rivendell that I do not know personally.

Behind us are a few of our kin from Mirkwood, and some from Edoras, followed by the large number of citizens of Minas Tirith and much of Gondor.

The courtyard is decorated beautifully with white flowers and green ribbons.

Gandalf the White stands before the great doors beside the dwarf Gimli who holds a pillow under the royal crown of Gondor, silver with golden trim and beautifully shaped; four tall formations on the thick band and marked with elegant patterns.

This is the first time I have seen Legolas in a floor length robe like his father wears. It's light silver, beautiful, and simple.

Thranduil wears a darker colored one but of almost the same style. And he wears only a circlet instead of a crown, for it is disrespectful to wear a crown for this event.

Legolas wears a circlet as well, simple and thin on his head. He fixed his hair back today in a half up tiny fishtail braid that I did for him to keep his locks from blowing in his face.

I wear the dress I had packed, a strapless, floor length, white dress (that perhaps has just the slightest hint of blue to the color) that has a golden web piece that covers my shoulders and also creates a collar. The piece extends down between the breast of the dress and forms into a piece around my waist.

I wear my hair up in six braids that wrist together and create a bun, with a few thin strands in the front left out.

Éowyn wears a stunning long sleeved dandelion dress sewn and decorated with such elegant detail it makes mine look more than simple. She wears her golden hair down beautifully with a bronze circlet on her head that looks Celtic with tiny flowers in the design. And she has a matching necklace.

Faramir next to her looks very handsome in his traditional but ceremonially beautiful Gondor Captain armor of silver, with a cloak on his shoulders of black, and golden designs on the edges.

Arwen wears the lightest color of green as a dress with a low collar and a beautiful silk wrap on her arms. Her hair is pulled back by a gorgeous, almost Arabian looking headdress of tiny beads in tiny strings the color of white and a hint of green and jewels that lace together to form a low tiara in her head, attached to a silver circlet. The beads drape under her ears and two of them fall in a low loop behind her flowing hair of the darkest brown.

Her father stands with her wearing a long white royal robe. And they both look proud to be here...

There is a peace in the air here; a peace and joy that makes the sun shine just enough through the clouds to warm our skin, as the breeze cools it. There is a tranquility in the world that it has longed for.

Everywhere I look faces are smiling... and when I feel fingers subtly tapping my palm from the person beside me I smile too.

.

.

But as the wind itself quiets heads turn left, and across the isle they turn right. I feel my eyes search over the helmets of guards to see someone familiar walking forth through the pathway... A man that walks humbly towards where Gandalf stands but with confidence that he knows of that this must be his path.

He wears beautiful steel armor worthy of a king of Gondor, with designs that match the crown crafted into the shoulder plates. The chest piece silver with golden trim, the emblem of the white tree in gold with multiple stars above, over royal chain mail. And on the shoulders of the man Aragorn rests an exquisite black cloak that catches the light when it flows with every step the king takes.

I watch my good friend with pride as he walks forward, keeping his gaze at the ground before looking up towards the old wizard with love.

He stops before him and kneels where he is.

"Aragorn... Son of Arathorn," Gandalf addresses. "Before me you are here, to be made King on this day under the eyes of Eru Ilúvatar, and in so you take an oath to Him and to all that live in this kingdom. Do you promise to protect the land of Gondor and all in it?"

"I promise," the ranger replies, looking down at his feet.

"And do you promise to use your knowledge and wisdom for the greater good of your kingdom?"

"I promise."

"And do you promise to lead your people with peace of heart and love in ever action and in every word you speak; to rule the lands of your ancestors with care and with the power that comes with His hand humbly?"

"I promise..."

"I announce with authority gifted, Aragorn, King of Gondor." He backs away just slightly with man stilled knelt.

And Gimli approaches the wizard with the pillow. Carefully he picks up the silver piece of jewelry, the crown of kings and places it on Aragorn's head, the placement symbolizing the lock on the pledge he swore, an oath bound until death.

"Now come the days of the King," the White Wizard says proudly before him. "May they be blessed."

With a head returned up and straighten of his body back standing he turns to face the crowd who stand behind him, seeming confident but also nervous and overwhelmed a bit.

And on queue I begin to clap, cheering for Aragorn with a smile spread from ear to ear upon my lips. Legolas and Éowyn join in immediately after me and then Arwen. The whole mob of people and races all clap together for the king.

Cheers fill the courtyard and brings smiles to us all and courses a blush to appear on the king's cheeks that other people don't notice.

Once it dies down he speaks. "This day does not belong to one man, but to all."

His eye catches mine as a give a playful smile and he tries to keep the same from his lips after.

"Let us together rebuild his world," he continues. "That we may share in the days of peace..."

The applause returns joyfully and above the king white flower pedals begin to fall, picked up by the breeze and carried in the wind, fluttering until they hit the concrete. Above where he stands I see two women of the court who throw them down from a ledge.

That is when we hear the man begin to murmur a song, a beautiful poem of the kings.

There is a certain beauty and peace in the way the pedals fall like white embers upon the courtyard as the king sings quietly with a head bowed, his beautiful voice echoing through the overlook like fog on a winter's night.

It feels perhaps as a dream... Surreal but so wonderful.

The light is soft, and the silver clouds float thinly in the sky over the sun, allowing for peeking beams every now and then of a golden brilliance.

The King of Gondor stands before his people, a heaviness, but perhaps a positive kind, on his heart and shoulders. I always knew he would make a great king and I've only known him for a few months maybe shorter.

Elrond has a face so proud towards Aragorn. The little boy he helped to raise has finally become what he was born to be. He was destined to be king of Gondor.

Ahead of me a whole flower flutters down towards the ground. Legolas extends his hand to gently allow it to fall onto his palm.

He looks at the delicate blossom closely until he eyes me.

A smile hesitates on my lips.

And he looks at my head, reaching up to gently plant it into the edge of my hair bun to where it is tucked between my head and the braids of my do. I look up at him after with a smile that is shy unlike his that is teasing and adorable.

Aragorn walks down from his place, lowering his hand to Lady Arwen, her smiling sheepishly in return.

Gladly and gracefully she takes it and the two walk side by side back down the isle

Legolas wraps his fingers around mine and the two of us walk after them, Lord Elrond following after that, along with Thranduil.

Some of the citizens we pass bow their heads in respect for the new king.

And we walk down past the happy faces with alike expressions.

Until we finally stop. I take Legolas and circle past Aragorn to where I can see the hold up and he stares at the four hobbits... That have come to support their king and friend. But the realization of how this shouldn't be begins in his eyes when they all bow before him.

"My friends," he breathes.

They all look up a bit puzzled and innocent.

I smile.

"You bow to no one," he shakes his head. And then before our eyes he kneels, showing a humility that kings don't normally possess. But he understands that if it were not for these tiny Shirelings none of this would be so. Aragorn and the rest of us would most likely be dead. We owe the smallest of heroes our lives and hearts.

With that the rest of us follow his gesture and bend to the ground, bowing our heads and letting everyone in the whole courtyard eventually do the same...

The sun has given us light. And to that we are full of contentment.

.

.

.

.

The main halls echo with laughter, music, and joyful talking amongst the hundreds of guests of King Aragorn's coronation.

Drinks are passed to merry friends and folks from distant lands.

I stand with Prince Legolas, speaking with elves from Rivendell and others. I thought almost none of them know anything about me until he would say I am his wife. Then I would get a few respectful bows towards my princess title. But alas word has spread through these lands quite fast. I have well known titles now like "the Necromancer", "Realm Walker", "Tamer of Beasts", "Uniter of Worlds", and "Rider of Dragons".

The word of bringing back a demon from death is probably the most well known.

They leave us and for a moment Legolas leaves to retrieve a drink for me.

I look about at the decorations that adorn the halls, white flowers and ribbons of green like the outside—

"Do my eyes play tricks? Or is this he woman who raised Smaug the Terrible from his watery grave?" A strangely familiar voice says to my left.

My head turns with a frown and my eyes lock with someone I hadn't seen in over two months. Although I almost didn't recognize him because of his fancy attire: a nice black button up tunic over dark wine trousers and with black boots.

"Oh my goodness you came!" I run to him smiling and give him a tight friendly hug.

Bard chuckles and I back off him.

"It was the least I could do for what you did for me." He smiles.

"How does it feel to be legal in Dale again?" I smirk.

"Wonderful. The others send their regards as well."

"Tell them I said 'hello'," I smile. "How did you hear about the dragon? Weren't you all the way in Rhûn?"

"Stories spread across the lands east from Laketown that a woman with hair of ice rose back to life the beast under the mountain and ended the War of the One Ring. And there was only one person I knew with white hair." He smirks.

"People have been telling stories? No this war wouldn't be won without every single person in those armies especially Aragorn."

He nods respectfully and then frowns at something by my hip. Reaching out he gently picks up my left hand to observe my wedding ring. "I don't believe it..." he laughs.

I giggle. "Oh goodness I..."

"You did not invite me to the wedding of such good news I see," he says almost chuckling.

I laugh. Well it wasn't really planned..."

"When did this happen?"

"Nearly two months ago at the battle before the Black Gate," I say casually.

He frowns and almost cocks his head.

"Yeah our guests were orcs. It was a rushed thing... Gandalf married us on the battle field."

He lifts his eyebrows. "Well that's quite the occasion."

I laugh. And look at my band at catches the light; the tiny copper ring that looks like a delicate branch wrapped around my finger. Thranduil had personally forged matching ones for both Legolas and I, and I cherish mine very much for that.

"And who is there lucky gentleman?"

I feel myself blush, something that most married women don't do, but those women not have a husband like mine. "Um he's not a gentleman—well not a man... An—"

"Darling," Legolas's smooth voice says as he walks up behind me, handing me a silver goblet.

I take it with a bashful smile and look back at the man before me.

When he realizes that the Prince of Mirkwood is my husband he smiles humorously and looks down.

"Hello, Bard," Legolas says cutely and surprised. "I was not expecting your appearance here. It is very nice to see you again."

"Aye, my prince," he says politely. Then his eyes go back to me as he tries to keep a smile from his lips. "So you're a princess?" he says in a bit of shock.

"Surprise," I exaggerate with my arms spread out.

"That is something."

I take a sip of the wine and shrug.

"Bard," I hear someone say close by.

He looks to the left and then back at us. "If you will excuse me your highnesses," he says with a polite bow. "It was lovely seeing you again."

I curtsy and smile as he walks away to his beloved that is here as well.

"This isn't half bad," I smirk to Legolas, holding up the wine.

He grins. "I am glad you think so. My father hasn't taken a second sip since he got his," he says while looking in the distance casually.

I giggle but quietly.

"Legolas Thranduilion," another elf that I do not know says. The dark hair and light clothing suggests he is from Rivendell. And he walks up to my husband to speak to him.

My eyes skim about the room and I see so many races all gathered together, different from what I have been taught to believe since I have been here. I even see Gimli's father, Gloin here.

And then I see the four hobbits sitting alone at a table, they don't seem to fancy this wine but there are also metal mugs of ale. And that's what they drink.

But they seem distant, alone, and perhaps sorrowful.

Those little people have seen so much sadness, so my death in such a short time that they were not used to seeing. As if you took a small innocent child hunting.

I walk to their table and take a seat by Pippin where there is enough space for me, him and Merry. We sit across from Frodo and Sam.

"Why so glum?" I tease them, smiling.

Merry looks to me with a smile but the others just glance.

"You guys remember me, right? The freak with the tattoo?" I hold up my palm and lift my eyebrows.

Frodo and Sam finally look up and grin. "Good to see you again, my lady," Samwise says cutely.

"Wait," Frodo frowns and hesitates. "You are the Princess of Mirkwood. How did you become this, my friend?" he asks curiously, but with almost an excited smile.

"I fell in love," I wink.

He smiles and exchanges it with Sam. And the blonde hobbit blushes in return, thinking of something.

Merry makes a weird laugh when he looks at Sam's face.

I laugh too, for I know that look anywhere. "Oh what is this?" I smile.

"Well, my lady," Pippin says as Sam gives him a look, "Samwise knows that feeling too."

"Does he?" I giggle. "Well good for you."

Sam just looks embarrassed.

Then attention is turned to the entrance and I see no one else than the king of Gondor himself and his love, Lady Arwen walk into the throne room.

I smile widely and run to him out of habit and not really thinking... but I land against him with my arms around him in a hug. He laughs and Arwen is chuckling.

I back away from him and look up at his sparkling eyes.

"Wow... you're a king now..." I breathe. "Um congratulations."

He laughs. "Thank you. Now we are both royalty." He winks.

I giggle then look over at his beloved. "Hi, Arwen."

She laughs. "Hello Lady Vilora."

"I should probably return to my husband now," I frown and retreat from them as they chuckle.

Soon music starts to play from the different instruments brought to the main hall. And couples begin a traditional dance.

I left my wine at the hobbits' table. And when I retrieve it I sense someone behind me. I turn to see Legolas standing there with his hands behind his back.

I try not to smile and blush when he bows politely and offers his hand, saying, "Lle merna salk, arwenamin?" (May I have the pleasure of a dance, my lady?)

But the expression I try to fight takes over and I feel the blood rush to my cheeks. "Yeah," I giggle.

He gives me those squinted eyes as he smiles and I allow him to take my hand. The two of us move to the dance floor and then I look around at the others. Nin taught me a few things about dancing and it is simple enough.

The two of us start by curtsying to each other and then we do a circle with our palms touching between us at eye level. The whole time I can't help but blush at his eyes that are cutely locked with mine.

"You know," I stutter as I try to know what I'm doing, "I don't know much about dancing..."

"Just follow my lead," he responds.

And then we follow the music, doing those circles for a while and then different turns and steps. But I try to keep up. It is slow dancing thankfully.

"This is really different from the dancing on Earth," I laugh.

"Is it?"

"A little," I continue to giggle.

"I would rather listen to your music than this I think..." he mutters.

"Really?" I smile with eyebrows lifted.

He looks up at me returning the expression. That gives me an idea.

"I'll be right back," I say and dart from the throne room.

I open the doors to the courtyard and whistle once outside.

After a few seconds my fell beast swoops down and lands by the white tree. I run to the beast and search the saddle. Once I find what I'm looking for I smile and start to run back in until Éowyn meets me with a happy grin on her face. "Vilora I know what you're thinking," she says excitedly.

"Do you?"

"Yes and Aragorn agrees with you,"

I laugh. "No way," I giggle.

"Come on," she says and runs back into the halls.

I chase after her and shut the door behind me when I reenter.

Legolas follows me curiously. The musicians stand around with almost excited looks as they anticipate what the music on my world could sound like.

And I open up some songs I think Legolas would enjoy.

People return to the dance floor as the first song starts, me eyeing Aragorn who has a wide smile on his face. The song is a vintage one: "Little Black Submarines" by The Black Keys. Which I think is my husband's favorite band.

The only other person that has heard this music has been Kel and Thranduil a few times. And when I glance at the elven king he has an amused smile on his lips.

I run to my elf and collide with him, both of us smiling at each other before parting and then we continue the way we were dancing before, but there's a certain beat to this that wasn't there before.

People smile around us and dance they way they did before.

From the corner of my eye I see Thranduil dancing with a female high elf from Rivendell.

My eyes stay in those of my true love as we turn and do the steps... that is until the wild section of the song comes up. Then I do I move I taught him, letting him pick me up by the waist and drop me again. Then swiftly I do a flip over his shoulder and land behind him. I can see others around the room clapping and that's when some of the humans and dwarves begin to dance merrily like they did in Edoras after the battle at Helm's Deep.

I can't help but crack up as we try to dance but just end up jumping around and goofing off.

Legolas and I laugh, still holding his hand I lean against his chest for him to give me support.

Others around us do the same with joyful voices and fantastic dancing everywhere.

This is where I belong. Here with Legolas, with Thranduil, with the Wood Elves, and with Aragorn, Arwen, Éowyn, Gimli, Faramir, Bard, Frodo, Merry, Gandalf, Pippin, and Samwise. This is my home.

.

Laughter fills our ears around us as the others talk amongst themselves. The sun has left us but the white colored halls are still bright from candlelight.

People sit around and eat different foods that the Gondor women have prepared for the celebration. Legolas and I wait patiently for food as the dwarves and men take their share first.

Legolas doesn't drink much, especially the stuff that men make here. He's used to the best kind of elven wine.

So he stands with me as I sip from mine. I this is my second goblet but I have barely made a dent in it. Don't think I'll finish it either. But I know that I am very hungry.

My music still plays from my tablet. But it's quiet. Thranduil and I scrolled through it and I picked some of his favorites.

Once we have food I sit down with Legolas and Gimli, and across from Bard and his "girlfriend" Isatella.

Legolas has only some bread and salad. But the dwarf beside him feasts on a turkey leg and ham.

"God bless meat," I say with gratitude. "It's been long since I had it."

Bard smiles as he glances at me.

"Is this seat taken, my lady?" another voice asks to the left of me.

My head turns to see Aragorn standing by it with a royal goblet. He smiles down at me to where I can once again see just the ranger and my friend.

"King Aragorn?" I smirk. "Shouldn't you be with the bluebloods at table one?" I point with my thumb to where Arwen, Elrond, Éowyn, Faramir, and Thranduil sit. The table that Legolas and I were also invited to sit at but we wished to be with friends while they're here.

He chuckles. "You never answered my question, Princess Vilora."

"Oh yes, well you see my imaginary friend is sitting here so," I shrug.

He smiles. "I have missed your company my friend," he says sitting down.

I grin widely.

Bard and the others are looking at Legolas with an amused expression.

I turn to my head to see him staring down at a piece of beef on his plate, fork in hand.

"What's happening?" I ask.

"We get to see an elf try meat," Bard says holding back an excited smile.

"Wait seriously?" I copy his expression, looking towards my husband. "How?"

"Looks like the dwarf talked him into it," Bard laughs.

"He lost a bet. And therefore he will taste the best produce of my people!" Gimli rejoices.

Legolas looks down at the flesh in his dish with a lifted brow, disgusted that someone would eat such a thing. "This beast was once... living," he swallows.

"Well it's certainly not now you picky little princeling," Gimli torments.

"Just think of it as another plant that you would eat," I giggle.

He keeps the same expression but cuts into it like a child during gross anatomy dissection. With a metal fork he lifts the tiny bite and looks at it hesitantly.

I don't even realize I haven't blinked as I watch him with wrapped attention and an amused smile growing on my lips.

Everyone around us waits in anticipation as he brings it a bit closer to his mouth. But he stops.

"...Come on!" Bard laughs.

Some laughter erupts and from the corner of my eye I can see Aragorn smiling widely.

But it silences again as the elf places the meat to his lips.

...And then... he opens his mouth and bites it from the metal.

Everyone inches on their seat to see his reaction to the taste. He looks disgusted at first, probably thinking of how this was an animal.

But he chews it with a frown and a scrunched nose. As soon as he swallows everyone bursts into merry cheers and laughter, clapping happily as Legolas just looks regretful.

I giggle out loud and put my hand over my mouth.

The dwarf's cackle and smile makes me laugh even more as he looks to the elf with joyful amusement.

Legolas holds back a smile now, his expression still showing regret.

"Well?" I ask in anticipation.

"It... was a bit grotesque but... not as bad as I estimated..." he says with a sour expression.

I laugh. "I never thought I'd see the day when you would eat a cow."

He looks at me with his eyebrows raised in an innocent way. I suppose he didn't know that's what he was eating.

My smiles disappears and my laughing fades. I make a pained expression. "Do you want me to get you some water?"

He nods.

.

.

.

.

.

.

The next morning we prepare to leave and say goodbye... well for now at least.

"It was nice to see you both again. Thank you for all of your help," Bard says to Legolas and I.

"I should be telling you the same," I smile. "If it were not for you we wouldn't have gotten Rhûn's help in the war."

"I was glad to help."

"You are always welcome in Mirkwood, Bard," Legolas says.

He smiles and Legolas does a polite elven solute for goodbye. The man returns it.

I look at Isatella by his side. "It was nice meeting you," I say. "Keep Bard out of trouble," I laugh.

She giggles. "I will."

Éowyn accepts that I wish to hug her and she lets me, even though it may not be the most proper thing for a queen to do. She is not like most royalty however.

"I'll keep in touch," I tell her. "Make sure to catch me up weekly on all the news... including your new 'friend'," I smile and wink.

She laughs, the blood rushing to her pale cheeks. Behind her Faramir has not been paying attention so he didn't hear what I said luckily.

She bows to Legolas who does the same.

I turn to Aragorn and Arwen who stand there together, hand in hand. They make such a perfect couple. And I will miss them for now... I don't know when the next time will be when we can visit Minas Tirith again. I hug Strider tightly who wears his royal robes now instead of armor. But he returns my hug with a bear grip around me.

I laugh and so does he. I am like a child in physicality compared to him, so tall and broad.

"I promise I will return soon," I say.

"I hope so, dear one," he chuckles.

I part form him and turn to hug Arwen goodbye. "Take care of him," I giggle. "He can be quite reckless you know."

She laughs. "For certain."

From the corner of my eye I can see Legolas embrace the king of Gondor. That brings a smile to my lips.

Elrond and Gandalf stand behind her. And I approach them, both have grins on their faces as they look down to me.

"I want to thank you both for your help. We could not have won this war without you... Will I ever see you again wizard?"

"Perhaps one day, my lady," Gandalf smiles.

I grin back up at him and wrap my arms around his waist.

His hand pats my back.

And I look up at him.

"Keep an eye on that elf for me," he says quietly with his brows raised.

I breathe a silent laugh. "Two eyes. As often as I can spare them."

He winks at me before he returns my expression.

I back away just a little to face Elrond. "My lord," I do a polite bow. But then I look up and smile at him. "I promise I will visit Rivendell often."

"You will always be welcome, Lady Vilora."

The two of us place a hand on our hearts to solute.

Gimli already left. But it was not much of a goodbye. Erebor is close to the Woodland Realm so we see him often.

But we finally face the hobbits after Legolas says goodbye to the white wizard.

They stand in a row, Frodo and Samwise in the middle between Meriadoc and Peregrin.

I smile at them. "I will have to come see it again someday, the Shire I mean..."

Little Frodo approaches me with the others. "If you two are ever passing Bag End... tea is at four. There will be food... don't bother knocking," he smiles up at us like a child.

I grin and so does my husband. "I like my tea with extra sugar," I giggle.

Legolas chuckles.

The young hobbit shows his teeth in a smile, his big blue eyes looking amused into mine. I bend down to eye level and hug the tiny hobbit. He wraps his arms around me tightly. I look up at his friends and see Pippin sniff. I smile and open my arms wider. All of the hobbits come to me with sad smiles and I hug them. I had gotten to know them well this past year. They are such precious little creatures, hobbits are. So full of happiness and fun. I cannot visit them as often as I should but I definitely will.

I then stand to my feet, all of their eyes looking up at mine when I do.

I turn to Astalder my fell beast as he adjusts his wings and lifts his head to me. I stroke his neck and walk to the saddle as Legolas hops on.

I place my foot on the fastenings and pull my body onto the beast.

"We'll see you back home Ada," I say to Thranduil who exits on his horse after smiling at me.

I look at the friends I have made. All of their faces know me, all of them love me. I do not deserve such a thing as this... as a family. These people are incredible. And I will never forget them... nor will I ever live apart from them. So long as I live I will continue to love, support, and fight alongside every one of them. My whole life I have grown up not having a home... but now I have found one. And I know my Lord has brought me to it.

.

.

.

.

.

Returning to the Woodland Realm I find myself tired and hungry. Thranduil has not arrived yet. But it is almost time for dinner on our landing.

I tug the packs of things with Legolas carrying most of it up to our chamber. I walk up the steps to the door, opening it for him because he has his hands full. But when the door is opened something tiny runs to my feet.

I almost gasp but then I see others. Tiny little furry things...

I look up at Kel who looks overwhelmed as he sits on our bed holding one of the puppies in his arms. "Uhh," he stutters. "Welcome back."

"Where did... uhh these come from?" I ask worriedly.

"It seems Morier... is a... female."

"What?" I laugh. Tiny wolf puppies crowd around my feet, wagging their tales.

Legolas looks like a child on Christmas morning with a grin from ear to ear as he bends down to welcome these new family members.

"And a pregnant one..." I mutter.

After Legolas puts down our things he picks up a tiny puppy and holds it to him as he crouches, letting the little fur ball like his nose.

I laugh. "They are so big already. When were they born?"

"Just after you left," he chuckles, placing the tiny pup on the ground and walking to us, looking down at his tunic that is caked in white fur.

I crack up as I try to refrain doing so. "Must wear white?" I laugh.

He frowns sadly.

I giggle.

"You had to look after them while we were away?" Legolas asks as one of them leaps and grabs his hair in its tiny mouth.

"Yes I did. But some of the others helped."

I bend down and pick up one of the critters in my arms, the smell of a fluffy puppy filling my nose as the little guy wags his tail. His big black eyes contain excitement and love. And its tiny paws clutch onto my shoulder. The fur is so soft against my cheeks it feels as a cloud. "Well you have certainly earned your pay," I say.

Legolas tosses Kel the bag of coins and he catches it.

"Oh... my lord, Prince Legolas..." he hesitates.

I look up and so does my husband.

Kel reaches behind the bed and picks up a pair of boots, holding them up... they have tiny teeth marks in the feet of them.

Legolas stands to his feet and walks to him, innocently taking his chewed boots and observing them.

"I... kept them from tearing anything else up as much as possible," Kel says.

I look around the room and notice it is spotless. Everything must have been put in the wardrobe away from the pups.

The little fat creatures scatter about our chamber and gather as Kel sets down a bowl of water for them.

Morier runs up to us with glee and I scratch behind his—her ear.

"I can't believe this," I smile to Legolas.

He returns my gaze with an excited smile. "I love them," he says with joy.

"Me too!" I laugh as they greet us.

.

.

That night we had to figure out how to get the puppies to settle down and sleep. Once their mother did it seemed easy for them. And once they were fed milk they all crashed.

Legolas and I could finally sleep. And we did.

But in the middle of the night I awaken... for a reason I do not know. But I stare at the ceiling lit blue with the light of the moon.

A scratching sound gets my attention and I look to my right where Legolas lies, sound asleep with his face turned my way, his long hair hanging off the other side of the bed.

The scratching sound continues and I see his golden locks get tugged from behind.

One of the puppies is pulling on his hair.

I see a smile spread on his lips as he awakens from it.

I giggle. "I'll get it," I tell him and get up.

With tired fatigue I get the little rascal out to use the loo and back inside to sleep.

Suddenly we have nine children.

For the next couple of days Legolas spends all of his time with them, so excited with them all. I do the cleaning and the feeding as he babysits.

.

.

THRANDUIL:

.

As I enter my home again the familiar smell of sap fills my nose. I step off my horse and my assistant guides him to the stables. As I walk through I get gazes set to me from the other elves, now knowing that the king has returned.

I make my way to my throne room where the steps to my study begin.

But as my familiar throne comes into view I notice something... unfamiliar on the seat. Squinting, I approach it further as it moves. There on my throne sits a tiny wolfling chewing... on... my... crown...

I frown. "Legolas," I call out.

.

VIL:

.

"Oh you're home," I say happily as Leggy and I walk to where the king stands.

He turns his head to give us a strange look.

My mouth hangs open and I glance at his throne. "Oh, uh Legolas..." I notice.

"Right," he says and runs ahead, taking the crown from the fur ball's mouth and picking up the little creature in his arms.

He walks to us again with a smile on his mouth.

"Uh surprise?" I say to Ada.

He hesitates and Legolas holds up the little pup, reaching out to where the thing is nose to nose with the king, its stubby legs dangling with its tail.

Thranduil's expression doesn't change... until it begins licking his nose and wagging its tail.

Then the king lets a smile come to his lips regretfully.

His elves pass us as they bring his things from the journey back down to his chamber and his study.

He takes the puppy from Legolas and holds it as it scrambles joyfully towards him.

"Morier had pups," Legolas tells him.

"I can see..." Thranduil chuckles as the little thing licks his jaw.

"We're going to have to find people to take them we couldn't possibly keep them all—" I look to my right as I say this and I see Kel walking past the throne room with a book in hand, a chubby little puppy following close behind like he's his best buddy.

I smile.

"I think she likes you," Legolas says to his father.

The pup grabs a hold of the king's hair in its tiny teeth and pulls on it. He laughs quietly and takes his locks from the critter's mouth as I giggle.

"Who would take them?" Legolas asks me.

That gives me an idea.

.

.

FRODO BAGGINS:

.

'The Lord of the Rings by Frodo Baggins...' I write with ink on the old parchment just under 'There and Back Again, a Hobbit's Tale by Bilbo Baggins'.

I tap the pen on the inkwell with thought... my adventure? How should I begin?

...

Bilbo would know. He always knows. I read his book while in Rivendell during the great Battle of Another World. It was quite magnificent. My uncle knows a way with words and stories... He always has. I think about how much I miss him. Though I know he is enjoying his stay with the elves... getting to see the mountains every morning...

But I will never take my life in the Shire for granted again.

A pain stabs my shoulder and I clutch it with my fingers. The Morgul blade wound reminds me every day that it is still there. A year it has been since the day I received it. I don't think it'll ever fully heal.

A knocking at my door takes me from my daydreams.

"Mr. Frodo," a familiar voice says that brings a smile to my face.

"Come in, Sam," I call back.

I can hear the door open with a creak. "A package just came for you," he says.

I frown and stand from my desk chair, walking through the circular halls of a home once my uncles, now my own. I move some maps aside and arrive at the door where he stands.

He retreats outside and I follow him with confusion on my expression. Sunlight hits my eyes and reflects bright green from the pastures of Hobbiton. I walk down the stone steps to where my friends Merry and Pip hold a chest. They exchange an excited smile when I look at them.

"What is that?" I ask.

"It's for you," Merry says.

"It came from far east," Pippin states.

Sam walks to it with me and I open the latch. To my surprise I find a tiny dog; a fluffy white wolf pup curled up in the corner. But when the critter sees me he leaps for joy and swishes his long tail back and forth.

"Would you look at that," Sam chuckles.

I smile at the little animal and pick hip up with my hand out of the box.

I hold him to my shoulder and he nestles close, licking my face.

"There's a note," Sam says and picks up the small piece of parchment at the bottom of the chest. Unfolding it he reads off, "'Thanks for being such excellent and admirable hobbits. Sincerely, the elves of Mirkwood'."

"This is from Lady Vilora?" Pippin asks.

"I guess so," I chuckle, still holding him.

"Can I hold him?" Sam asks.

I laugh.

.

.

QUEEN ÉOWYN OF ROHAN:

.

"Six hundred pieces will be given to help rebuild the Westfold," I tell citizen Armon from the north. His farm was burned down by the Wild Men before the Battle of Helm's Deep.

"Thank you, your grace," he bows politely and leaves the halls as I sit on the throne in which my uncle once sat... here as the Queen of Rohan... a title I never thought I'd have. But I wish with all my heart that the king was still here...

My fingers find the wood of the throne and remember his hand that was once here... But I cannot live in the past. I miss him dearly. And my cousin and brother. But they are gone. And for the long deserved peace of Middle Earth. They died well... as hard as it is for myself to say so.

I must be the best queen I can manage, for them.

"My Lady," Tholdred my assistant says as he approaches the throne. "Help has arrived from Gondor."

My stomach leaps with what Vilora calls "butterflies" when he says this, though I do not show it. I nod my head gracefully and stand up. I hold back my smile as he walks away from the main room. Once I know his back is turned I start running for the main doors to outside, letting my smile come forth.

I leap down the steps but just before I open the doors I come to a sudden halt. And I fix my dark red dress, adjusting the button trim of the "v" shaped area on my chest of golden designs, and pulling down the skirt that opens over a white one. The white sleeves drape over my arms but cuffed at the wrists, with golden bands around the upper arms and slits where the red shows in the shape of eye. I pull up my low circle collar a bit more and fix my hair that, today, I put the top section back in two twists that meet behind at my neck and twist together after clamped with a golden ring, under my circlet crown.

I breathe deeply and throw open the large wooden doors. Sunlight kisses my face as the wind blows back my golden locks. I step out into the light and onto the ledge. But when I look down I see riders in silver coming this way, bearing the symbol of the White Tree.

A smile brings the corners of my mouth widely apart showing my teeth and I adjust myself at the front of the doors, two guards of Rohan on either side of me.

As they come to the steps they dismount their horses, the head rider of red hair and beard walking up first.

I try to look appropriate and sophisticated as he approaches, a smile lingering on his lips.

He stops before me and bows, the rest of his men staying down there, for there are many of them. "We are here to return the favor your people gave to us," Faramir says to me after he straightens back up.

"Your aid is appreciated greatly, Lord Faramir. The Wild Men have not given up. I thought they would stop after Saruman was killed..."

"These men never acted on behalf of the wizard. They fight for their own cause. But we will stop them, my lady."

"Thank you, my lord."

He smiles and bows his head politely.

I try not to blush.

"Have your general speak to our captain about the plan of attack. I wish to talk with you... not as steward and queen, if that is alright," he takes my hand in his and kisses it softly.

I curtsy. "Agreed."

.

We walk down through the outer, emptier part of the city, behind the buildings where a trail is and flowers grow.

"How is the white city?" I ask.

"Better. There is much work to do in rebuilding still... but mostly in Osgiliath."

"I only saw the city once in the battle. It looked in ruins."

He nods, breathing. "Yes... but we will bring it back."

"I am still trying to get homes rebuilt in the East Emnet. So many died... so many villages burnt to the ground..."

"I am sorry..."

I look at the ground.

"You're staying here I take it?"

"I must, Faramir. There is no other heir now that both my uncle and brother are dead."

"I know..." he says but seeming sorrowful.

"And there is no one to take your place as Steward of Gondor?"

He hesitates. I should not ask him such a thing... I wouldn't if he had not asked me about my position. He cannot leave Aragorn now.

"We will find a way..." I tell him.

"Éowyn," he says, stopping. He takes my hand in his. "All the months after the war I spent with you... But I do not wish to spend another day alone."

I look to him with shock that someone could care about me so much.

"I love you, Éowyn."

A smile hesitates but reveals itself on my lips. Speechless, I lean forward as he does and our lips touch softly...

"My lady!" I hear someone call.

Immediately I snap away from him and look in the distance where Tholdred stands.

"Someone from the north is here to see you," he says.

I nod. Taking my hand from Faramir I look back at him.

"I'll find another steward. And then I will come back and we can be together. I promise."

I smile so gratefully and kiss him on the cheek. "I love you too, Faramir." Then I leave him and walk back to where Tholdred stands by the city gate.

There on a white horse is a fair haired elf I have not met before.

He wears a covering of grey (but almost with a hint of pale indigo). And he looks at me with a plain expression. "I have brought a gift from The Woodland Realm." Then he slides off his beast and opens the saddle pouch. The elf hesitates but reaches down and picks something heavy into his arms. And to my surprise I see that it is a tiny white wolf puppy with grey speckled paws.

"Oh she's precious!" I say taking her from the elf's arms. I would have been more proper to have Tholdred take her but I could not resist in doing it myself.

The pup is only the size of a bunny rabbit and I hold her carefully in my arms, her little mouth chewing gently on my finger.

"And this, my lady," the elf says taking a note from another bag and handing it to me.

I hand the pup to Tholdred who takes her gently. And I take the piece of parchment from the elf. Unfolding it I read in my head: SURPRISE! Here's a coronation gift for yuh ~ Vil

I chuckle to myself. And I will call her later to thank her.

A high pitched bark gets my attention. I look to my left to see the puppy staring at Tholdred intently.

I laugh as he holds back one himself.

.

.

LADY ARWEN UNDÓMIEL:

.

"Orcs still inhabit the mountains west... but their numbers are dwindling..." Aragorn calculates as he peers over the map of the lands of Gondor on the stone table. "Rebuilding Osgiliath is our primary responsibility."

"Indeed," the captain says.

I stand by him... my eyes scoping about the dirty parchment in thought. I look to where they have made marks on the lands which still need to be rebuilt. And the marks where enemies still fester.

"Send men down to the city and begin construction wherever you can. Volunteers would be splendid. But if not we do have coin to pay."

"Yes, my lord," the captain bows retreats from the room.

I look at my love as he seems stressed... and I walk to him. "Gondor will take a few months to recover... perhaps even a few years," I say softly to him. "But so not let this trouble you. A wise king knows that peace of heart is important."

He smiles from what I can see under his locks of black. And he looks up into my eyes. "I thought you would have returned to Rivendell after the celebration."

"I cannot leave now."

His gaze travels to the floor.

"I have waited forty-nine years to be with you, Aragorn. And now that we are united once more, I will not return to the north."

As much as he believes I should use this time to spend with my ada before we wed, he is glad to hear me speak of staying. I have spent my whole life with my father. And I am ready to spend the rest of my days with my beloved.

A smile appears on his thin lips and his hand comes to the side of my face, stroking my hair so gently. His eyes are soft and he looks into my own with love.

His other hand comes up to his jewel still wrapped around his neck. "You gave me this," he whispers... "And now I shall return the favor..."

I look down to my hand which now holds something small. Unbinding my fingers I reveal the most beautiful silver ring of starlight; a diamond, the gem of my family dynasty wrapped in a tree, shining as bright as the moonlight; a symbol of the family of Undómiel and that of the line of Isildor uniting as one.

The jewel is so stunning I cannot speak.

"I am ready to be with you all the rest of my life, Arwen," he says in the tongue of my people.

"...Aragorn," I breathe, still gawking at the beautiful ring on my palm.

His fingers take the jewelry carefully and he holds my left hand. Gently he slips the silver band over the pale skin of my ring finger.

"I cannot accept such a beautiful thing," I whisper.

He looks deep into my eyes and finally I return his gaze. "You must," he replies with a smile, a star in his eye.

I return his expression and wrap my arms around his broad shoulders. "Amin harmuva onalle e' cormamin," I say to him. "Amin mela lle." (I will cherish your gift in my heart - I love you)

"Amin mela lle," he replies.

...

.

"My lord you have a visitor from the north," the captain interrupts.

I part from my love and turn my head to see him.

Aragorn and I exchange a gaze and then we follow the man as he leads us through the main hall.

Aragorn opens the large doors, letting the white light flood into the palace.

A hesitant wind blows back the skirt of my dark blue dress, folding over my skin with a chill I was not used to getting before... it is because I am now mortal I suppose.

My fingers go up to one of my bare shoulders. This dark blue garment's collar attaches around the neck with a decorated band of black. The neckline falls past my shoulder blade on either side and wraps around my arms as sleeves; sleeves that are long and flowing.

Before us an elf approaches, dressed in an attire of wood elves, with fair hair and skin, a white horse standing behind him in the courtyard.

"Heru en amin, King Aragorn," he addresses with a hand to his heart, a bow of his head as follows. (My lord)

Aragorn returns the gesture as he always does.

I smile to the visitor from afar. Wood elves are good friends to my kin.

"I bring word from Princess Vilora and Prince Legolas."

We walk down the steps after my love's eyes light up.

He approaches the elf of Mirkwood with a smile, him returning it. "They wish you a merry life until they visit again," he says to us.

I grin along with Aragorn.

Laughter fills the air over by the mellon's horse.

He looks back at the commotion. "And a gift... I bring..." he hesitates.

Aragorn glances to me strangely and I look over his shoulder to see his men playing with a tiny creature of white. It is a wolf pup I believe. And it bounds merrily over the courtyard with a smile of excitement as the men greet it.

A smile spreads across my lips.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

VIL:

Shadow falls... rains down like snow... the light breaks the clouds. Ash is no longer in the air. But the smell of oncoming rain...

The darkness no longer veils the sun. And the dust is blown away.

In the distance I see the buildings... Once they stood tall... Once they glistened in the sunlight. They are black as night against the rising sun that reaches out from the clouds with eager fingers.

Far off... amongst the these clouds I can see the shape of a dragon, free as he spreads his wings and rockets through the sky, his roar echoing distantly through the abandoned city.

I stand with Legolas under the London Eye.

"He's beautiful isn't he?"

My husband comes to my side, his gaze following mine. He doesn't answer as the dragon flies across the borders of the sun. "He might become a threat to all of us..." he mutters.

I turn my head to him. "He wouldn't."

He looks at me.

"Not while I am here." I smirk.

He hesitates to return a smile and we look back ahead of us at the world I once knew. In this we can rebuild.

Smaug owes me his life. Now that I raised him from the dead, he will serve me and my descendants as long as he lives.

"What will we do now?" Legolas asks.

Thunder cracks in the distance. A breeze flows over the city and tugs my hair. I lift my nose into the air and close my eyes. A tiny drop of cold hits my skin and sends me with a chill. I can hear the creaking of the Eye above us so quietly, the old riggings and bars rusted and covered with moss and vines... the structure itself reaching the sky.

Another drop falls on my palm when I stretch it outwards. And the misty sound of rainfall can bear heard in the distance.

Smiling, I race forward, leaping over rubble and hitting my heels on the hard stone. Rain splashes on the pavement and hits my pale skin as my legs fly forward.

I stop where I am in the clearing of misty downpour and spin on my heel, smiling and catching the drops on my tongue. This reminds me of when I was flying on Morier before the Battle of Helm's Deep, through the clouds above the Westfold, the rain once again catching on my skin.

I catch my husband running to me and taking my hand. Spinning, I giggle and he laughs.

He pulls me into him and smiles. I look into his excited eyes like a child before he presses his lips to mine. There's so much water on us both that we almost feel like we are drowning in the rain.

But I would be happy to be drowning now.

His hand at the curve of my back pulls me closer so that a blade of grass would not fit between us. Our clothes are completely soaked. I'm glad I decided to wear two layers or else you'd be able to see through my garments. Not that it would matter. Legolas and I are the only ones on the planet.

I part from him and laugh, water dripping from the tip of my nose onto his bottom lip. I reach my hands up to tangle in his soaking wet hair and let my lips wrap around his again, this time with more force.

I love him. I love him so much. I love him more than anything. I would give up everything for him and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with him.

This world is ours now. And we can rebuild it. We can start a new world. I will live on Middle Earth with Legolas and start a life there. But with the help of my rune, travel between two worlds is now possible. Which means this is now a future for inhabitance once more.

I have spent my whole life trying to save my world. And now I have saved two.

And our names will live on for an eternity.

It is not the end.

It is the beginning.

.

.

.

.

__________________________________________________________________

I would like to thank everyone for reading this and supporting me along the way. you fans are amazing. i could not have been so motivated if not for you! thank you for being incredible! i had a blast writing this novel and I am glad to anyone who enjoyed it just as much! MY LOVE IS SENT TO YOU!!

Thank you for following me one last time :)

__________________________________________________________________

.

.

Between Two Worlds fun facts:

The name Morier means "dark one"

The first child Vilora and Legolas have is a boy half elf that they name Ryohnin Éomer Greenleaf, which is the boy that Vil saw in her vision.

The name Sûl means "wind".

Kel marries Nodwen

King Aragorn appoints Epaphras as his steward of Gondor because of Vilora's recommendation. And Faramir gets to rule Rohan by Éowyn's side.

The name Astalder means "valiant one"