"All crowns are a burden. Even a delicate one such as this." - Anberenien

21st June/ Nórui 3019, Anberenien's Quarters, Minas Tirith

From his place by the window, Thurindaer observed Anberenien and King Elessar's conversation in the Solar. Part of him was angry that she had been put through such an ordeal. But as a King, he understood the necessity of such questioning when making judgements over life and death. 

Anberenien stared at the floor while King Elessar sat beside her on the couch. "My apologies for making you endure such questioning. If there were any way I could have avoided it, I would have. I hope you will forgive me."

"There is nothing to forgive. Justice needed to be done," replied Anberenien coldly.

"You do not have to attend tomorrow. You have been through enough."

Anberenien lifted her head to face him with that look of sheer determination he knew so well. "No, I will not shy away from my duty. I will see justice done."

"Your courage humbles me, Anberenien. We shall ride to the House of Detention an hour before dawn." He patted her shoulder and rose from the couch. "I will leave you to rest now. You must be exhausted. When the business is done tomorrow, would you join me for breakfast? Legolas and Mithrandir will be joining us, as will a few other close friends I wish you to meet."

Anberenien gave him a weak smile. "I think it will be a welcome relief," she replied. She rose from the couch and embraced Elessar before kissing him on the forehead. "The shadow is finally passing from this world."

Elessar smiled, his grey eyes becoming moist. "And soon the light will come into my world. For the rest of my days." He took his leave of Anberenien and left the Solar. 

When he had gone, she removed the crown from her head and stared down at it before looking in Thurindaer's direction. "All crowns are a burden. Even a small one such as this."

She was right. His crown had been weighty indeed. For centuries, he had carried his burden alone and without complaint. For Legolas, for his kin, for his people. Only Calenamath truly understood his burden. His counsel never failed. Now he was gone, wandering the Halls of Mandos like his father until deemed worthy of rehousing.

He thought of Anberenien's burdens. Once Wed, they would eventually have to go into the north to oversee the rebuilding of Arnor. His realm was established long before he became king, but her's was a broken country, and she would have to convince those within its bounds to respect her authority. A heavy burden indeed. 

Thurindaer smiled from beneath his hood. "A weight you need not bear alone, Melleth Nin."

Elweth entered the Solar. "Princess. You have a guest this evening. Lady Lothíriel of Dol Amroth shall be dining with you tonight. She is a fine young Gondorian maiden of about your age. The King thought she might lift your spirits."

"The king is very thoughtful. I shall retire to my room and rest so that I can be an attentive host. I shall leave tonight's menu in your capable hands, Elweth."

Elweth gave her a thin smile. "Very well, Princess, I shall ensure my ladies prepare the finest local dishes." And strode off in the direction of the kitchen. 

Aberenien shook her head. "I wish he had not done that, I am so weary." 

Thurindaer longed to comfort her, but knew it was too risky with Elweth's watchful eyes. He caught her hand as she passed him and kissed it gently. She giggled slightly, giving him a faint smile before retiring to her bed chamber. Thurindaer stared out of the window, watching faint clouds wisping around the tops of the mountains. Then he heard a noise coming from the direction of the bedchamber. A snuffle at first, then open weeping, and his heart broke with every sob. 

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Lady Lothíriel was a bright, bubbly young woman with long dark hair and laughing grey eyes. She was dressed in a bright blue sleeveless gown in the Gondorian style. With white Swans embroidered at the bottom of the skirt.

At first, Anberenien was surprised to see a maiden wearing blue and wondered if the custom was different in Gondor. Then she remembered that her father, Lord Imrahil, had worn a similar coloured garment during the trial. Elweth beamed widely when she saw her, and asked Lothíriel if her family were well. "We are all very well, Elweth, and grateful to have all survived the war when many of our countrymen were not so fortunate," she replied. 

"Elweth! Would you go see how long dinner will be?" said Anberenien, a little irritated that her servant had been so familiar with a guest. She noticed a slight smirk on the housekeeper's face before she nodded and strode in the direction of the kitchen. The woman had deliberately wanted to disrespect her. 

Lothíriel stifled a giggle."Thank goodness that old bat has gone. Now we can get to know each other properly."

"Lady Lothíriel, you cannot call her that," replied Anberenien in surprise.

"Why not? It is the truth, she is a miserable old bat, always has been." Lothíriel explained that Elweth used to serve in her household in Dol Amroth but had moved to Minas Tirith to be closer to her kinfolk after her husband's passing.

"She is a bit of an old bat, always looking down her nose at me." It was enough to break the ice between the two young women, and both were in fits of giggles. While they dined, Anberenien and Lothíriel exchanged news and stories. Lothíriel spoke of Elessar's coronation and how much she was looking forward to the wedding and serving as a maid of honour for the new queen. "I never thought we would have a king and queen in my lifetime. Mother and I were preparing to flee north by ship, had things turned out differently."

As Lothíriel spoke of her family, they sounded like such a close and loving family.  Anberenien wondered how different her life might have been if she had been fostered by Prince Imrahil as her kinfolk had planned. "I do hope you will be able to visit Dol Amroth while you are in Gondor. Our palace is so beautiful with wonderful views of the western sea."

"I am sure it is very beautiful, but I do not expect to remain in Gondor for long. Once the King is wed, I will be preparing for my own."

"Really? The king did not indicate that you were also to be wed. You must come to Pelargir at least. Now that the Corsairs are defeated, the markets will be selling even more exotic goods and spices than ever before. There will be fine bolts of cloth, perfect for wedding clothes."

"I am betrothed to King Thranduil of Eryn Lasgallen. We intend to wed after I come of age in August."

"You are to wed an Elf, too? How exciting, one of my ancestors wed an Elf woman. But she disappeared after raising their children. She probably sailed over the sea, that's where most Elves go. That's why none of our menfolk grow beards. It's the Elven blood in their veins. Have you met Legolas, King Elessar's friend?"

Anberenien chuckled slightly. "I would hope so. I am betrothed to his father. I have lived in the woodland realm since I was a maiden."

 But she was fascinated to learn more and asked many questions. Although she was of Elven descent, she had never met Elves in real life and was very curious. "Is it true the Elves there live in caves? I don't think I would like to spend the rest of my life in a cold, damp cave."

"Oh no, most of the Elves live in the great beeches that cover the forest. And the cave is not cold or damp. It is a royal palace and rather beautiful."

Lothíriel blushed and lowered her head. "Oh, I am sorry, my Lady Princess. I did not mean to offend. I am sure it is lovely. I hope I have made a good impression. King Elessar speaks so highly of you. He says you are brave, strong, and wise. But he never told us how beautiful you are. Your hair is magical, and your eyes are like nothing I have ever seen. It's like you're from another world."

Anberenien smiled and blushed. Lothíriel was a kind and honest young woman, and Anberenien was very taken with her. "I think that is the nicest compliment anyone has given me." Lothíriel beamed with delight. But all too soon, their time together came to an end. The young noble woman took her leave, promising to show her the sights of Minas Tirith. Anberenien had at least made one friend in this strange realm of men.

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The first signs of light was beginning to appear in the eastern skies when Anberenien met King Elessar at the Royal stables. She wore her gown of state beneath her grey cloak but did not wear her crown on top of the long braid trailing down her back. Mithrandir and Legolas accompanied Elessar and were already seated on their rides. A groom brought Calithiel to her, who looked well-rested after her long and arduous journey. But there was no time to pet her or feed her an apple. That would have to wait.

"Is your honour guard really necessary, Anberenien? I have plenty of guards," said Elessar.

"Even so, his presence comforts me," replied Anberenien.

Elessar reluctantly agreed, and Mithrandir gave her a wry smile, but Legolas frowned suspiciously and muttered something under his breath. Anberenien thought nothing of it, her mind was focused on the unpleasant event she was about to witness. Once everyone was mounted, King Elessar gave the command to leave. The company travelled down to the Second level. No one spoke, and even the horses seemed subdued as they plodded through the empty streets. 

When they reached the gate of the second level, the company dismounted and walked swiftly to the House of Detention.  It was a large fortified building carved into the mountain. Outside was a small square crowded with people, where a scaffold had been erected. Before the structure, Anberenien noticed Borion and his knights. No doubt to get a clear view of the proceedings. There was a strange party atmosphere with shouts from food sellers and street vendors making their way through the crowd. Anberenien found it distasteful. This was an execution, not a parade.

The Citadel guards shouted at the crowd to make way for King Elessar. A hush came over the crowd as they parted ways. The Guards of the Citadel and the city watch formed a cordon which led to an official-looking building of white stone with a Balcony on the first floor adorned with the Gondorian flag. 

At the entrance to the building, Faramir stood waiting. He gave Elessar a solemn bow but did not speak. Faramir ushered the company quickly through the building and up a flight of simple steps. He led them to a large room, where two large windows opened out onto the balcony. "Anberenien, your Guard of Honour will have to remain here," said Elessar.  Anberenien nodded and instructed Thurindaer to remain in the room whilst she accompanied Elessar onto the Balcony. Mithrandir, Legolas and Faramir followed behind.

Some of the crowd gasped and whispered when they saw Anberenien, as she had not yet been formally introduced to the City. Faramir stepped forth and quieted the crowd. "Good people of Minas Tirith. King Elessar and his royal sister, Princess Anberenien of Arnor, come among you this morning to oversee The King's judgment carried out before you all....."

As Faramir spoke, Anberenien's mind drifted back to the Elessar's judgement at the hall of Kings, how Nuta had screamed and raged at the King when he had found all the priests guilty and sentenced them to death. 

The other priests had shown repentance; they had fallen on their knees and begged for mercy. King Elessar had commuted their sentences to exile in the far south. But Nuta screamed that she did not recognise the court. She had shot a look at Anberenien and stated that there were authorities far stronger than a man's court at large who could bring him down to nothing. But no one paid her wild rantings any heed, and Elessar ordered her to be taken back to the House of Detention to await her doom. "My Lady, please!! Let me serve you!!!" Nuta's words still rang in her ears before the guards dragged her away. 

The clang of the prison doors brought Anberenien back to the present. Still in her prison garments, Nuta was brought out by two guards. Behind them was the hangman and his assistant. Now the sky was bathed in the golden hue of the first rays of the sun. The crowd below pushed, shouted abuse at her and threw rotting fruit and vegetables. By the time Nuta reached the scaffold, she was dishevelled, covered in rotting food, and a bruise was appearing on her cheek."You do not need to watch this, Anberenien. It will not be pleasant. No one will think any worse of you for retiring," whispered Elessar. 

"No, Brother, I must see the murderer of my Kinfolk brought to justice. She made me watch when the Orcs tried to hang Radagast, I will not look away now!" said Anberenien.

"Radagast? I did not know this. Does he still live?" asked Mithrandir.

"The Elves saved him. But he has gone further into the forest. Away from prying eyes."

While the Hangman and his assistant prepared the rope, Faramir again silenced the crowd. He produced a scroll from his tunic, reading from it as he addressed the condemned. 

"Nuta of Barad-Dur. High Priestess of the Temple of Melkor. You have been found guilty of the following crimes. The massacre and destruction of Duincar Village and its people on the Angle of Eriador. The murder of the King's kindred, Lord Beren, Lady Naerien and Lady Gruinith. And finally, the abduction, torture and attempted murder of Princess Anberenien, the King's royal sister!"

The crowd reacted with gasps, shouts and muttering. Nuta showed no emotion, her eyes were firmly fixed on Anberenien. Faramir continued.

"The penalty for one of these crimes alone is death. You have shown no remorse or repentance to be granted the king's mercy, and so your sentence will be carried out.  If you have any last words, speak them now and may Mandos have mercy on you!"

The crowd waited in silent anticipation. 

(Under Edit)

 "Alas, my poor uncle. We received word of his passing when the Galadhrim brought those monsters to Minas Tirith. This war has seen the passing of many a noble soul."

Thurindaer looked out from the window at the citadel below him, the people looking like tiny black insects in the torchlight. He heard the entrance door open and close behind him. "How was the feast?" he called without looking.

"Tiring, so many people to meet and make small talk with, smiling to my face but whispering behind my back," said Anberenien.

Thurindaer drew the drapes across the window, removing his hood as he turned to her. "That is hardly surprising, Thorwen. Gondorian nobles may use Sindarin names after the heroes of old, but actually meeting one or someone who has been raised by Elves is another thing."

Anberenien stood before him, the black and white of her gown complimenting her waist length, wavy hair. "But Elessar was raised in Imladris as I was?"

"But he is King, Thorwen, and has lived more of his life among Men than you have." He kissed the top of her head and ran his fingers through her hair. "You look beautiful tonight. I wish I could have been with you."

Anberenien smiled sadly. "I missed you, too. I do not know how long I can bear it here. Perhaps after Elessar's wedding, I can seek his permission to return to the Woodland Realm. Then we can Wed and live in peace."

Thurindaer understood her pain. He was just as keen to leave the city as she was, even though they had only been there for a few hours. He held her close, breathing in her scent as they embraced. "Alas, he will not agree. He will want us to Wed in Minas Tirith. Even after our return to the Woodland Realm, we are bound by our agreement to oversee the restoration of Arnor. We are not done with the realms of men just yet."

Anberenien's eyes were moist as she pleaded with him. "I cannot wed in Minas Tirith, the memory of what was to take place here weighs heavily on my mind. If he will not agree to let me leave, let us go, in secret."

The temptation to agree to her request was strong, but he knew the likely results of such action. His very presence was already a risk to her honour and if his cover was blown, the consequences for them both would be grim. "We can't Thorwen, I will not risk war for our people, even for you. We must bide our time for now."

Anberenien nodded as a silent tear rolled down her cheek. He gently wiped it away, and they embraced again. A sudden noise made them both jump and break apart. Thurindaer breathed a sigh of relief as Merenthel entered the Solar. "Sorry to disturb you, my Lady Princess, but I have turned down your bed for you."

Anberenien thanked her and asked for some Camomile tea. She then sat on the couch with her head in her hands. "When will I ever be free to live my own life?" she sighed.

"Soon, Thorwen, I promise." He sat beside her, his arm around her, and she leaned into him, her head resting on his shoulder. He knew she was exhausted. The day had been long and mostly on horseback. Merenthel returned with the tea, but Anberenien had already fallen asleep. Thurindaer smiled, kissed her and gently lifted her and carried her to her bedroom. She barely stirred as he gently laid her on top of the bed, remembering the last time he had done this after she had saved his life.

He sat beside her, watching her as she slept, longing to lie beside her. Yet knowing such an act would see them both in peril. After all, he was an Elf and a King at that, and no Elf would ever take advantage of such a situation. He rose, leaving her in the care of Merenthel, and returned to the solar. Then replaced his hood, opened the drapes and resumed his lonely vigil at the window, looking out into the night.

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There was still light in the darkening skies as Anberenien and Gandalf watched the wedding party approach the City Gatehouse. The company came to a halt just outside, then Elrond and Arwen dismounted. Elrond came forth whilst Arwen remained with the company. He caught sight of Anberenien and beckoned her to him. "Princess of Arnor, I would ask a small service from you."

"Of course, Ada. How may I be of assistance?"

Elrond gave her a small cushion, then he produced the sceptre of Arnor from his robes. Anberenien looked at him with surprise."You sent me to the Hall of fire for playing with that when I was a little girl."

Elrond smiled."I also sent King Elessar to the Hall of fire for much the same thing. Now he is a King and you shall be a Queen."

"You never told me Aragorn went to the hall of fire."

"He was there almost as many times as you were, must be something in the blood." and he winked at her. Anberenien accompanied Elrond, holding the cushion, as they approached King Elessar. Both bowed low, then Elrond made a speech as he presented the sceptre to him. Upon receiving the sceptre, Elessar held it aloft and declared the Kingdoms of Gondor and Arnor reunited, his words greeted by loud cheering. Returning the cushion to Elrond, Anberenien stood to the side as Elrond laid Arwen's hand in Elessar's.

Now the cheering grew louder, with shouts of "Hail to the King and his Queen!" Elessar and Arwen rode at the head of the procession, with Anberenien and Elrond behind with her brothers, then everyone else. The crowds threw flowers as the torchlit procession made its way through the city. But it was late into the evening before the procession finally reached the stable tier.

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The Feast took place in Merethrond The great feasting hall of the King. It was a fast hall of white marble with gold leaf pillars. There were so many hands to shake and smiles to return, that Anberenien felt more like a curiosity than a princess. Many smiled to her face, then whispered behind her back, and she was unsure who was friend or foe. 

They had been a welcome relief from all the fake smiles and pleasantries. Frodo, she knew to be old Bilbo's nephew, and they spoke at length about him. She learned Frodo had taken Sauron's ring to Mount Doom, where it was destroyed, but he declined to speak further on it. There was also Pippin, who was a Knight of Gondor who proudly strutted about in his dress uniform with the other Knights and Merry, whom Eowyn had asked her to pass her personal best wishes to.

But the hobbit she had spoken with most was Sam. He asked lots of questions about the Wood Elves and the Elven King. He was genuinely interested in Anberenien and her life in Mirkwood. But Aragorn would often call her away to meet some Knight or dignitary, who shook or kissed her hand, made jokes about Elves or spoke to Anberenien as though she were a child. Only Prince Imrahill and his lady treated her with any genuine respect. Their sons were all handsome and charming with the same laughing grey eyes as their sister Lothíriel.

  By the end of the evening, Anberenien was exhausted and relieved to at last return to her apartment.

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"So why was Elweth so rude about my attendants?"

Lothíriel thought for a moment, then spoke in hushed tones. "Some Gondorians are wary that you have lived around Elves for so long, not to mention you look a little strange to them. Many would feel more comfortable if you were to adopt Gondorian customs."

"Do Gondorians not like Elves then?"