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~Year 1 of the Second Age

~Gil-Galad Point of View~
I stared out at the waters to the west feeling as if the waves were feeling my longing. The kingdom of Lindon was in movement in the distance as Grey Havens was still in the process of being built. The sea called to me and my spirit longed to rejoin my wife in her homeland. I glanced down at the elfling in my arms with a sad smile when she placed a tiny hand on my face. My daughter was the entire reason that I ignored the call to leave Middle Earth. I did not know what my wife had seen upon her birth, but I knew that Siladhiel had to be prepared to face a great darkness.I reached forward to grab her hand when she patted my face as if sensing my sadness. My daughter shifted as her true self shined attempting to sooth my sorrow. I had never seen any that carried a true self as bright at only months old. Those that remained in Middle Earth could already see that there was more to my daughter than met the eye. I cared not to answer the questions of those that were unaware of who my daughter’s mother was. Siladhiel’s true self was all her own and would prove to be a light to those around her.“King Gil-Galad.” Lord Cirdan said as he stepped to my side and smiled down at the child in my arms.“Lord Cirdan.” I murmured in return as Siladhiel’s eyes lit up at the sight of one of her favorite elves.“Oropher and Amdir are preparing to depart for their journey.” Lord Cirdan informed me as Siladhiel giggled when Cirdan reached forward to run a finger along her cheek.“Come, little one, let us send them off with our blessings for safe travels.” I whispered to my daughter before following Lord Cirdan to bid them farewell.I was not surprised that they paid more attention to my daughter when I greeted them. I had kinship with the others, but every elf was taken with Siladhiel. My daughter had been born at a time that marked the end of Morgoth. Siladhiel was the first true light that many of us had felt in Middle Earth and her true self was a comfort to all that remained. It was not surprising that the child would be seen as the hope for better days ahead. In all my days, there was nothing like the moment that I realized that I had become a father. There was nothing that I wouldn’t do to protect Siladhiel. I ignored the call to return because I was unable to leave her behind and her destiny lay here.
~Year 20 of the Second age
I smiled at the loud and joyous giggling that could no doubt be heard all throughout the kingdom of Lindon. I could see several elves pause and smile at the contagious happiness. I could tell that no one was surprised at the sight before them. My princess of light was spinning freely in the rain without a care in the world. Siladhiel was well known and admiral for her joyous spirit that brought happiness to all that were greeted by her. I would have no doubt that I adored my daughter more than any of those in my kingdom."Father!" Siladhiel squealed as she laughed loudly when I swung her up into my arms and spun around in the rain “Put me down, father!”“I think not, Siladhiel!” I replied with a chuckle as I pulled closer and held her tight as I continued to feel as if her mother was with us in this moment."Father, is mother sad?” Siladhiel questioned me after a moment as she frowned up at the sky.“No, my light, she is not sad.” I murmured softly as I leaned forward with a heavy heart and placed a kiss on her forehead “These are tears of joy at the sensing your happiness.”“Mother is happy?” Siladhiel asked me in a curious voice as her little hands reached out trying to catch the rain.“Of course, she is, Siladhiel.” I replied with a sad smile knowing that my wife would carry grief within her due to being separated from us.I watched as my daughter stared into the rain with a serious expression that tore into my heart. My daughter’s compassion often affected her emotions greatly. I didn’t wish for her to get lost in her own sadness and tossed my little daughter into the air before catching her. I smiled when the desired effect happened, and she laughed loudly again for all to hear. I did not wish for the separation from her mother to profoundly affect Siladhiel and chance darkening her light. There was little choice in the separation when my wife had no option but to return. I had to remain in exile to ensure my daughter was prepared for the days to come.“Your majesty.” Lord Cirdan replied with a slight bow “Elrond is here to speak with you.”“Very well.” I said with a heavy sigh knowing that he wanted to speak about Elros again “Forgive me, daughter. I have matters to attend to.”“I understand, father.” Siladhiel chirped happily as I smiled at her understanding despite her age."Princess Siladhiel, perhaps you would honor me by joining me for the afternoon meal?” Lord Cirdan asked Siladhiel as my daughter brightened looking at Cirdan.“I would be delighted, Lord Cirdan.” Princess Siladhiel said with a giggle as Lord Cirdan looked at her in amusement.“Come, Princess Siladhiel, let’s leave the king to his duties.” Lord Cirdan commented before taking the princess from my arms and I chuckled lightly at how easily she went."Tell Elrond that I miss him father." Princess Siladhiel demanded with a pout as I smiled and reached out to mess with her hair feeling overly fond of her gentle heart."Of course, daughter. I shall ensure that Elrond is aware that you expect a visit from him before he departs from the palace to return to his duties.” I directed her knowing that I wouldn’t dare deny her seeing a friend."I will be happy to see him!" Siladhiel chirped happily as I caught the amused look from Lord Cirdan.I watched as Lord Cirdan took my daughter away before turning to walk to my study. I could still hear my daughter speaking rapidly about the games that she expected Cirdan to play with her. I chuckled lightly knowing that Cirdan, much like me, was helpless to deny her anything. I had seen the serious elf dancing and singing very often simply because the Princess of Lindon desired it. I took immense joy in the way that others were always so taken with Siladhiel. I glanced at Elrond as he stood awaiting my arrival and knew that he wanted to know about his brother.It would do him good to send him to Siladhiel after this meeting. I had not received word that Elros and the other Numenoreans had reached the island that they had sailed for. I had taken Elrond in when he had chosen to honor the Elven ways. It was no surprise that he was deeply concerned over his brother that had chosen a different path in life. Siladhiel would do well to ease his spirit after I had to tell him that there was a chance that his brother was lost at sea. There was little ease to do but to wait for word on their journey, but I could understand Elrond cared for his brother deeply and worried over how he fared at sea.
~Year 150 of the Second Age
I smiled at the way that Siladhiel leaned over the rail as the sight before us came into view. It had taken her years of pleading for me to embark on this journey. Now that I could see the way that seeing Numenor in the distance caused her true self to brighten it was worth the risk. The ship moved onto the shore, and I noticed that King Elros was awaiting our arrival. I reached out to steady my daughter when she jumped up in her excitement. I sighed seeing that Elros had also brought his sons with him. I had grown tired of the way that eyes lingered on my daughter.The worse part was that Elros was aware of this from the letters that had been exchanged throughout the years. I had built a friendship with Elros throughout the years through the journal that my daughter made. My daughter was broken-hearted when Elros sailed to Numenor. The desires of a child brought forth a unique method of contact that I had never seen before. It was not the first time, nor would it be the last that my daughter revealed unique abilities based off her desires. It was through this that my daughter grew in her desire to visit the kingdom that Elros spoke of. It was also through those letters that I spoke of the many males that approached me requesting my daughter’s hand in marriage.“King Elros!” Siladhiel shouted with glee running from the ship in quick and graceful movements that prevented her from falling into the waters.“Princess Siladhiel!” Elros replied with a smile as he brightened looking at her approaching him.“You have been deeply missed, Elros! It has been far too long.” Siladhiel said as she hugged the Numenor King tightly and Elros chuckled tightening his arms on my daughter.“You have been missed as well, princess.” Elros commented softly as I caught his sons eyeing Siladhiel in interest and curiosity “It is a joy to host you in my kingdom.”“I am so excited to be able to explore all the things you have wrote about.” Siladhiel responded as Elros finally released my daughter and turned to me.“It is an honor, King Gil-Galad. I trust that your journey across the sea was without troubles.” Elros said as he bowed in respect, and I nodded in return.“There were no issues that Lord Cirdan could not sail through.” I directed him knowing that Cirdan was not only the best builder but was skilled in the mastery of the sea “It seemed as if the Valar eased the journey for us.”“Allow me to introduce you to my sons, Vardamir Nólimon, Manwendil, and Atanalcar.” Elros introduced to us as he motioned to each of them before motioning to us “These are the High King Gil-Galad of the Noldor and his daughter, Princess Siladhiel, from Lindon.”“It is an honor meet you, King Gil-Galad.” Vardamir said as he looked at me with respect at least.“Indeed, it is an honor, your majesty.” Manwendil replied with a bow of respect as Vardamir stepped forward and bowed to my daughter as I glared at the way he looked over her ignoring the youngest son’s statement.“I am pleased to meet you, Princess Siladhiel.” Vardamir murmured as Siladhiel smiled in return, but my daughter showed no reaction to his interest in her.“I have heard many tales of all of you from your father.” Siladhiel replied before looking at his other sons “King Elros has spoken quite often of all of you, and I am looking forward to knowing if his tales are true.”“Our father has spoken highly of you as well, Princess Siladhiel.” Atanalcar responded as Elros smiled and patted my shoulder with a pleased smile “Or should I refer to you as the Princess of Light.”“I see that name has carried even across the seas.” Siladhiel said with a chuckle of amusement at the name she is known by in Lindon.“Let us start the journey. You will meet my wife, Melian, and my daughter, Tindomiel, at the palace. They stayed behind to finish preparations and are most excited to meet both of you.” Elros commented as Siladhiel brightly and shined at the option of meeting the Queen and Princess of Numenor.“I can hardly wait to meet them.” Siladhiel chirped as his eldest stepped forward again and held out an arm for my daughter.“Allow me the honor of escorting you, Princess Siladhiel.” Vardamir whispered as Siladhiel stepped forward without thought to allow the prince of Numenor to walk with her.“I pity you, King Gil-Galad.” Elros murmured as I narrowed my eyes on the way that his eldest son linked arms with my daughter “I doubt that there has ever been nor will there ever be any that can amount to your daughter’s beauty. I imagine that many would find it hard to keep their eyes off her enchanting appearance.”“So, I have been told many times.” I muttered wishing for nothing more than the time where she was still a child and did not gain the attention of males.“I must assure you that my sons are respectable. Despite being enchanted, Princess Siladhiel is most safe within their care.” Elros assured me as I raised my eyebrow at him.“I assure you, King Elros, that my daughter is quite safe with her own care.” I pointed out honestly knowing that my daughter rarely yielded to others and was often the most stubborn of elves.“Of that, I have no doubt.” Elros commented with a chuckle before softening on my daughter “My sons will respect her and know that she must return to Lindon.”“I hope you also made them aware that their lives are forfeit if they dare dishonor my daughter in anyway.” I murmured watching the way that Siladhiel laughed lightly with his sons.Elros seemed highly amused over the statement and laughed at my own plight. I forced myself to relax knowing that my daughter didn’t show any interest in marriage. I doubted that there would ever be one worthy of her. I just wished that she hadn’t inherited her mother’s beauty along with the most unique light purple eyes and my dark hair. I sighed heavily knowing that Elros was distracting himself from the lack of Elrond appearing on the ship. Looking at Elros, I could understand the reasoning behind his refusal. Elros was showing signs of aging and Elrond had already begun mourning for his brother. I could not imagine the burden of the enteral separation that was before them. I glanced back at my daughter and knew that I could not imagine a future where I did not remain at her side in all she may face.
~Year 300 of the Second Age
I felt my lips twitch in a smile as my daughter brought her sword up quickly to block my strike with Aeglos. Despite my initial protest against her training, I felt nothing but pride in the strength and skill that my daughter possessed. I had no doubt that should she even need to that my daughter would be more than a worthy warrior. Siladhiel’s movements reminded me of Fingolfin with her speed and grace. Celebrimbor often commented that she held my own might in battle and would shine just as brightly in her own silver armor. Cirdan stated that she reminded him of the greatest warriors of the Valar. Elrond was the only one to say that Siladhiel was a warrior of her own making.It was in moments like this that I agreed with him. Siladhiel twisted splitting her sword to twin blades and in a glimmer of shiver had both Celebrimbor and I laying on the grass. My daughter’s instincts in battle were unmatched by even the most skilled of warriors. It was more silent proof of the unknown fate that my daughter had foretold upon her birth. I could only hope that the blessings she received as an elfling would truly aid her. As much as I wished for a peaceful future that would ensure that my daughter remained untouched by darkness, I had not the strength to deny her destiny. Whatever Eru Iluvatar had planned for Siladhiel, I would ensure she was prepared to face it.“I yield, Princess.” Celebrimbor murmured as he set aside his weapon and my daughter’s eyes glanced at me without putting away her weapon.“You have done well, daughter.” I commented as I stood from the ground and Siladhiel’s entire face lit up with joy “I yield to you. I think that is enough training for this day.”“Thank you, father.” Siladhiel replied as she sheathed her weapon again “I do so hope that one day I honor my trainers in battle.”“I have no doubt that you will, little light.” I said softly leaning forward to kiss her forehead gently “You have done me proud, Siladhiel.”“I always aim to make you proud, father.” Siladhiel whispered as I softened, knowing that I was always proud of her.“I shall always be proud of you, Siladhiel. Do not doubt that all you ever need is to be true to yourself and I will always find pride in the elf you have become.” I murmured as I hugged my daughter and glanced at Celebrimbor who was smiling at both of us.“King Gil-Galad.” Cirdan said as he bowed deeply, and I raised an eyebrow at his sudden appearance “I bring word to inform you that Galadriel has brought forth an elfling. Celeborn has stated that they have named their child Celebrian.”“May we meet her, Lord Cirdan?” Siladhiel questioned him immediately looking positively delighted at the newest child for the kingdom “Or should we wait to allow Galadriel time?”“I do believe that Galadriel and Celeborn were expecting your arrival, princess.” Cirdan pointed out in slight amusement as it was common that Princess Siladhiel was the first to meet elflings and bless them.“Then, I shall not keep them waiting.” Siladhiel commented brightly as I smiled allowing her to pull me along with ease.I was not surprised by Celeborn immediately placing Celebrian within Siladhiel’s arms the moment we entered the chambers. I softened watching my daughter place a gentle kiss on the child’s forehead as her true self embraced her just as softly as my daughter’s arms. Siladhiel was always quite taken with the younger elves. I never asked and she never told anyone about the whispered blessings that she gave the elflings. I had no doubt that she spoke of protection and a meaningful life full of peace. It seemed to be my daughter’s greatest desire after all.I glanced at Galadriel as she watched both of them with knowing eyes. As if she sensed my eyes on her, she glanced at me with a look of happiness. It seemed that motherhood suited my old friend well. Still, I could catch the look that said that she had foreseen something. I had often wondered what secrets Galadriel held within her. It was a burden of our kind to see beyond and I had even seen glimpses of my own daughter’s paths that could occur. I wondered what Galadriel had seen for her own daughter. I turned back as Siladhiel stepped towards me holding out Celebrian for me to hold. I wasted no time honoring my friends by taking their daughter into my arms.I marveled at how tiny Celebrian was for a moment before I glanced at my daughter. I longed for the days where I could hold her in my arms like this and protect her from the world. The elfling in my arms didn’t hold the purity and brightness that my daughter had from the first moment I held her. I wondered why our kind grew so very quickly despite our endless existence. Celebrian too would grow much too quickly and soon be off causing her parents worry just as Siladhiel did with myself. I smiled at Celeborn in slight amusement in realization. Judging from the look of his face, he understood that all these years of worries were necessary when one had a daughter.
~Year 442 of the Second Age
I watched with a heaviness in my heart as Elrond stared out at the bay. I could sense the sadness within him at receiving word that his twin brother had passed away. I glanced to my side as Siladhiel stepped into view. I knew that my daughter was just as hurt by the passing of her friend. Elros was a dear companion of my daughter throughout the years despite the few times that my daughter had been permitted to make the journey to Numenor. I knew that the slight correspondents I had with Elros paled to the daily writings that my daughter wrote to her friend.“My heart is saddened for your loss.” Siladhiel murmured as she took a seat next to Elrond.“I lost my brother long ago, Princess.” Elrond whispered in response as I softened slightly knowing that each must grieve in their own way.“There is a difference between bidding someone farewell, and the coldness found in the knowledge of their death when it occurs.” Siladhiel commented as I tilted my head to the side wondering when my daughter had gotten so wise.“You knew him more than I did, Princess.” Elrond replied as I caught the look of regret in his eyes.“And yet, we have known him in different terms and ways.” Siladhiel said as she glanced at the water with saddened eyes.“I cannot claim to know him at all, not at all these years that have passed.” Elrond murmured as I stiffened at the weight of his grief and anger leaking from his true self.“I knew him as a dear friend. I shall hold him within my heart always as a friend.” Siladhiel responded before reaching out with a hand lit with her spirit placing it over Elrond’s heart “You shall carry him within your heart as a brother. You knew his heart, Elrond, and that is what matters most.”“I thought turning away from him when he made the choice to live as a human would lessen the grief. Instead, I have found that I have simply grieved him longer.” Elrond whispered as Siladhiel nodded in understanding “I cannot change it.”“There are none that can change it, Elrond. If it were in my power, I would.” Siladhiel commented in a whisper as she wrapped an arm around her friend “He knew your reasoning, Elrond, and did not fault you for it.”“How could he not when I am endless and couldn’t spare my brother a moment in these last centuries?” Elrond questioned as I stiffened in surprise at him voicing such a question.“Elros knew your heart as well as you knew his, Elrond. He never forgot the brother that loved him, even when grief pushed him away. He knew, Elrond.” Siladhiel said as Elrond’s tears began to fall.I took a silent step away from the pair leaving them to take comfort from each other. I didn’t wish to see Siladhiel’s tears. It tore at my heart any time anything caused my daughter sadness or hurt in anyway. I wished for a moment that I never allowed such a closeness to one that was not as endless as she was. I quickly pushed the thought away knowing that it would anger Siladhiel. My little light would cherish all the moments that she spent being friends with Elros. Elrond would always carry guilt for the time he wasted with his brother, but I knew that Siladhiel would remind him that Elros would not wish for his brother to carry such a burden.There was a purity within my daughter’s heart that I had never known another to have. Siladhiel would help ease the sadness and grief of Elrond as much as she could. Siladhiel had her mother’s compassionate spirit, and I would never change that. There was strength in her caring and gentle ways, even if there was also great weakness in it. I knew that despite the pain that she felt at the loss of a dear friend that she would continue to befriend Numenoreans. I sighed deeply hoping that few elves ever truly befriended those that lived such short lives. I hoped that my daughter’s heart could accept the pain of loss without corrupting a light that was so rare and special. A light that the world would one day need once more.
~Year 500 of the Second Age
I frowned in confusion when my daughter stiffened suddenly. I could feel her true self waver slightly before she slowly turned towards the south. I furrowed my eyebrows in confusion as I took in the way she seemed to fear something. I highly disliked the look of fear on my daughter’s face. I used my true self to look out into the lands as my powers tried to discern what had caused such a reaction from my daughter. I looked far into my lands and didn’t sense anything other than the purity of the elves that lived within. I looked into the distance attempting to see what she could be viewing but even with my elven eyesight there was nothing to fear or cause alarm.“What is it, little light?” I questioned softly as she flinched slightly, and I placed my hand on her shoulder wishing to comfort her as she slowly came back to herself.“I am unsure, father. I simply sensed something that I could not ignore.” Siladhiel whispered as she continued to look south with a haunted look.“There is nothing there, Siladhiel.” I assured her, knowing that I had used my own power to ensure it.“Nothing that wishes to be known, but something dark is in the south.” Siladhiel murmured in a whisper as I wondered if perhaps my daughter was revealing another ability that we had not known about.“What do you speak of daughter?” I asked her, knowing that if anything ever caused her fear then it was worth noting.“Perhaps, it is nothing and I am simply mistaken.” Siladhiel said as she shook her head and turned from the south sharply.“I find that I place faith in your instincts. What did you sense, little light?” I questioned her as I followed her on her way back to the palace as she seemed to want to put more distance between herself and whatever caused her fear.“I cannot be certain, but the south gained my attention so suddenly. A presence that did not wish to be known seems to hide there. My true self was drawn there so suddenly that I could not understand what I felt before it disappeared once more. It seemed to be warning brought to my attention, but I cannot speak of what the warning is.” Siladhiel replied as I frowned deeply at that information.“I shall send scouts to ensure there is nothing to concern ourselves with.” I offered softly as I leaned over to kiss her forehead “Do not fear, little light, I shall always protect you.”“It is not me that I am fearful for, father.” Siladhiel commented as I smiled at her sadly knowing that her compassionate heart worried about all living things without reason.“Come, let us explain this to Lord Cirdan and we shall send out scouts.” I directed her as Siladhiel nodded but moved slightly closer to me.I softened slightly at the realization that she was taking strength from my true self. My daughter was so unuse to sensing darkness within the safety of the lands. It was rare for her to seek comfort as she grew and became more independent of me. I was honored that she would seek it so willingly when she was scared of something that I couldn’t understand. I reached out and wrapped my arm around her wishing to hold her. My daughter was strong, and I would never doubt her strength. I was unuse to anything upsetting her so clearly. I wished I could assure her that there was nothing to worry over, but I knew the darkness that could be found in Middle Earth. I had fought it before and knew that Siladhiel was destined to fight a great darkness.I could easily write off her concern as something small, but her reaction made me concerned. I knew that my daughter had a connection to the lands that was far greater than any before her. There was something that my daughter sensed in the south that she found a threat. If she deemed it worthy of her attention, then I would take it seriously and investigate to see if an answer could be found. As I informed Lord Cirdan of the information, I could tell that he felt the same way. Cirdan immediately sent out scouts to investigate what the Princess of Light had sensed in the south. There was nothing to be found or relayed that would have attracted her attention by any of the scouts. It did not mean that I did not look to the south wondering what my daughter sensed and when it would reveal itself to the world.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Chapter

~Siladhiel Point of View~

~Year 629 of the Second Age
I smiled brightly as I walked down the path from the bay seeing the ships in the distance. I knew that the Numenoreans had grown quite fond of travelling by sea since the beginning of the century. Despite the fact, I had yet to get one of the Numenor Kings to travel across the sea as well. I knew that it was dangerous to travel by sea for the world of men. Even elves seldom decided to travel across the seas and no one besides myself had ever sought to visit Numenor. Even my father, for his friendship with the Numenor King through letters, did not hold a desire to travel by sea.“Princess Siladhiel.” King Tar-Elendil said with a smile as he bowed to me in respect “It is truly an honor that you would honor us with your presence.”“I could hardly stay away when you informed me of your daughter’s pending marriage.” I commented honestly before softening “I am pleased to formally meet you, King Elendil.”“I see that the tales of your beauty were not false. Although, I pictured you quite differently.” King Elendil admitted as I chuckled lightly looking at him.“I would say the same, but you do rather look like Elros once did.” I commented honestly as my heart ached at the knowledge of never seeing Elros again.“You honor me with such a compliment, Princess. I trust that you journey across the seas were without struggle.” King Elendil murmured after a moment as he motioned for me to follow him.“Indeed, they were. The seas have never been something for me to fear.” I replied softly knowing that by the blessing of Ulmo that I should never fear travel by the sea.“I was rather surprised that you would care to make the journey.” King Elendil said after a moment, and I knew that he returned to the fact that I hadn’t went across the seas since Elros’ death.“I do believe that it was time for me to visit once more. You have informed me of many changes in your letters.” I explained honestly as the king nodded in confirmation “My father was most displeased at my method of travel as he tends to feel most comfortable within our kingdom.”“I find that I agree with him. The seas are known to be dangerous to travelers, Princess Siladhiel. As a father, I can understand your father’s worry for your safety.” King Elendil commented before smiling at the beautiful woman walking down the path “Speaking of daughters, this is my daughter Silmarien.”“I am pleased to meet you, Princess Siladhiel. You honor me with your attendance to my wedding.” Silmarien murmured with a bow as I smiled brightly at her.“I am most excited to attend the celebration. I have not yet had the honor of attending a festival of the Numenor.” I replied in excitement as Silmarien softened as many did at revealing to them my true self.“I am even more honored that you would choose my wedding to be the first.” Silmarien whispered with a look of slight awe.“Come, I do believe there is time yet to provide you with a tour of the kingdom. It had grown much since Numenor has been graced with your presence.” King Elendil commented as I nodded in agreement.King Tar-Elendil smiled in clear amusement at my reaction as his daughter chuckled at my side. I listened in fascination as I took in the growth of their kingdom in excitement. I found King Tar-Elendil to be a wise and stern king that seemed to be highly respected by his people. I found Silmarien to be strong and wise as well. It was the knowledge that despite the respect that she had from the people and the leadership ability that she clearly had that she would never be queen. I was still angry that the Numenor would deny her the right as the first born because she was born female. I found that she would have been a worthy Queen for the kingdom.I would not realize the significance of Silmarien not becoming queen for many centuries. I would never again speak with Silmarien after I departed Numenor to return to Lindon. Silmarien would relocate to live with her husband, Elatan, in Andunie. I would be informed of the birth of her son, Valandil, a year later. I would not realize at the time that the title he took as the first Lord of Andunie would one day prove vital to the history of Numenor. Nor would I know any of the Lords of Andunie that split off from the line of Kings until I met the last lord of Andunie. In this moment, I was simply saddened that the Numenoreans overlooked a worthy leader because she was not male. It was something that would take another few centuries to correct when Tar-Ancalime became the first ruling queen of Numenor in the year 1075 of the second age.
~Year 780 of the Second Age
I found that I rather enjoyed the kingdom of Eregion. I was still deeply saddened that Lord Celeborn, Lady Galadriel, and Lord Celebrimbor had left Lindon to venture further into the lands. I found that the kingdom that Galadriel and Celeborn ruled over was a worthy cause. I was most interested in the ventures that Lord Celebrimbor had taken upon himself. The captain of Eregion was his settlement of Ost-in-Edhil that was near the dwarfs. I was fascinated by dwarfs and could see why Celebrimbor would wish to gain their knowledge.“This will become the Elvenway.” Celebrimbor explained as he led me down the path “It leads to the dwarves.”“Khazad?” I questioned him on the wording knowing that he had thrown a great deal of information my way since I had arrived in his settlement.“Khazad-dum.” Celebrimbor corrected in amusement as I smiled at how overjoyed he seemed over gaining more knowledge “The dwarves have a mastery of crafting Mithril, which is mined there.”“Mithril?” I queried having never heard of such a thing as Celebrimbor nodded in confirmation as his eyes shined with enthusiasm.“It is a metal unlike anything that I have ever seen.” Celebrimbor explained as he reached into his pocket to pull out something like silver “This is mithril. It is silver in color but stronger than iron. When crafted you can make the most unique items.”“I have no doubt that you are aiming to gain much of this knowledge.” I pointed it out in amusement knowing that he had a fascination with creations.“Here.” Celebrimbor directed as he took my hand and placed the block within my hand as my own widened in surprise.“Why is it so light?” I questioned him in confusion knowing that metal this size should be heavy.“It is lightweight but stronger than any other metal, Princess.” Celebrimbor offered looking much younger with the look of childlike fascination in his yes “There is beauty in the combination of Mithril with our jewels.”“I am sure that there is.” I murmured as I handed him back the mithril with a smile.“Come, I have some friends for you to meet.” Celebrimbor said brightly looking ahead of us and I smiled seeing three dwarfs awaiting us “These are King Durin the second, Prince Durin the third, and Narvi.”“I am pleased to finally meet the folk that Celebrimbor speaks so highly of.” I replied with a soft smile as the dwarves seemed stunned looking at me.“Friends, this is Princess Siladhiel from the Kingdom of Lindon.” Celebrimbor continued in amusement as his friends continued to be surprised by my true self.“Right, of course, please to meet you!” King Durin commented when Celebrimbor cleared his throat “Sorry.”“I take no offense.” I assured him gently knowing that even elves were surprised by my light “I can seal my true self if it would make you more comfortable.”“Nonsense!” Prince Durin commented with a smile “We are blessed to look upon such beauty. I shall now say that the gift we prepared for you does not do you justice, princess.”“You have me at a loss.” I murmured not knowing what he was referring to as Celebrimbor smirked happily.“I am sure that the Princess of Light will be delighted by the gift.” Celebrimbor said as both King Durin and Prince Durin smiled brightly at the statement before the king stepped forward.“Lord Celebrimbor spoke often of your beauty, Princess. When my son and I heard of your expected visit, we decided to craft you something to honor the friendship between us.” King Durin commented as he revealed a stunning necklace.“Beautiful.” I murmured in complete awe the delicate and elaborate necklace “I have never seen such detail before, you crafted this?”“Indeed.” King Durin replied with a soft smile as he motioned for me to take the necklace.“I cannot accept such a gift.” I whispered staring at the shiver and small green jewels woven throughout.“The necklace does little to aid in your beauty, but it would honor us to see it worn by one with your grace.” Narvi said with a smile as Celebrimbor chuckled, taking it from the King.“It would be rude to deny a gift when provided one due to your selfless nature, princess.” Celebrimbor commented as I sighed allowing him to put in on my neck as the dwarves looked on with smiles of pride.“You have my sincerest gratitude for such a gift, I shall cherish it always.” I murmured to them as King Durin let out a booming laugh and slapped his son’s back.“Come now, let us show you our mine and reveal to you the might of the dwarves.” King Durin demanded turning towards the incredibly unique doors being built before me.“These are the Doors of Durin. The dwarf, Narvi, and Celebrimbor have designed it.” Prince Durin explained when he saw me looking at the silver archway in awe.Celebrimbor and Narvi wasted no time explaining how they came up with the concept. Celebrimbor spoke of the inscription and purpose of the doorway to Khazad-Dam. I found every little thing that I learned very fascinating. I was often delighted to learn more from the dwarves whenever I found myself in Eregion when traveling. I always cherished the necklace that I received from the dwarves. It was the favorite of all the gifts that I would receive in the years to come, mainly from Celebrimbor. I would never have the heart to remove it and would continue to honor the friends that gifted it to me long after their deaths.Lord Celebrimbor would send vast amounts of items as he worked on his mastery of working with the mithril. The lord tended to focus on jewelry and clothing that were sent to me in copious amounts making my father worry that Celebrimbor was courting me. When questioned about his intent, Celebrimbor simply said that he wished to spoil the Princess of Light and that mithril with Elven jewels were the only thing he found worthy. He assured my father that he would never give me a ring and it was only then that my father continued to allow such gifts from the Lord of Ost-in-Edhi.If there was ever a gift that honored the mastery that Celebrimbor would have over mithril, it was the armor and weapons he sent later. The armor was delicately crafted to fit me and lightweight in a way that no other would achieve in making. There was elaborate detailing that spoke of the time that he spent on the armor. It was a craftmanship unlike anything else found within Middle Earth and I was honored that he would make it for me. Celebrimbor had spoken that it was armor fitting of a queen.  My father would joke where his armor was that would be worthy of a king but the look in Celebrimbor’s eyes would always give me pause.
~Year 800 of the Second Age
I smiled brightly as I walked down the path towards the bay in Grey Havens. Lord Cirdan had informed me that there was a ship incoming. The closer that I got to the water the more excited that I became, knowing that this ship was Eämbar. I quickened my pace seeing it dock in the Grey Havens with the arrival of Uinendili in Middle-Earth. This meant that Arnardil was here finally, and I could not wait to see my friend. It had been such a long time of wish that the Numenoreans would visit Lindon. Prince Arnardil was the first that appeared to have a journeyer’s heart and longed for a sea.“Prince Arnardil, welcome to Lindon.” I said with a soft smile looking at the young male that stepped onto the shore.“Princess Siladhiel?” Arnardil questioned me as I nodded in confirmation, and he smiled brightly “I am honored to be welcomed within your kingdom.”“I trust that you have fared well in your journey.” I commented softly watching as some of the Numenoreans disembarked from the ship.“Indeed.” Arnardil replied as I glanced at Lord Cirdan that would be overseeing ship.“I am sure that you wish to rest on dry land. If you follow me, I shall lead you to your quarters that were prepared for you.” I directed the Prince of Numenor as he smiled at me in amusement.“I find myself at ease on the waters. I have grown rather fond of traveling them.” Arnardil murmured glancing back at the sea “I doubt that I would ever grow tired of it.”“I have no ability to judge the desire for motion. I, myself, travel the lands quite often.” I replied as we walked towards the palace where my father awaited our arrival.“You have often spoke of the tales of your adventures.” Arnardil commented with a smirk “I find that I would rather establish alliances for Numenoreans and exploring the uncharted seas than settling into my seat as heir.”“It may be your wandering heart that will assist you when you become king.” I pointed out gently before smiling at my father’s approach “Prince Arnardil, allow me to formally introduce you to the High King of the Noldor and Lindon, Gil-Galad.”“It is an honor, your majesty.” Arnardil murmured while bowing deeply to my father as my father nodded at him in return.“Long has it been since the Numenoreans have graced my kingdom. I am pleased that you have seen to do so.” My father said in his normally serious way before he glanced at me “Come, let us show Arnardil our kingdom.”“Of course, father.” I agreed in delight and looked to my friend “I assure you that will never find a more beautiful kingdom than that of Lindon.”“I am sure that the home of the Princess of Light is something to be envied by all.” Arnardil commented with a smirk as my father leaned over and kissed the crown of my head.“It was, after all, built in her imagine.” My father whispered in explanation as he looked at me with love and adoration making me smile brightly.“Even from the shore, Lindon appears to speak of hope.” Arnardil murmured as we approached the palace.“Come, I do believe that we must start in the gardens.” I commented in excitement as I looked at my father “You will not find anything like the Gardens of Lindon.”“One would believe that it has been blessed by Yavanna.” My father explained as he smirked at his silent joke, and I shook my head at his teasing.Arnardil was in silent awe when he stepped from the pillars to view the Garden of Light. The garden was filled with a variety of flowers, herbs, and trees that were beautiful. The enchanting appearance was not the true reason that this garden was truly unlike any other place. This spot once stood the Valar before their departure back to their lands. It was found that as the garden grew after my birth that this place provided an aura of peace and tranquility that I was told mirrored that of Vilanor. It had since become a protected place that offered reflection and hope to those that stepped on this small piece of land. Thus was the reason that it was created for me, and my father built the pillars around it to honor my mother.It was no surprise that Arnardil would spend much time in the gardens while he was within Lindon. Perhaps, it was through the reflection and hope that he found there that the first true alliance between my father and Numenor was formed. Arnardil was the first Numenorean that I had truly befriended and formed a kinship with since Elros. I found him kind and wise beyond his years. My father would grow to consider him a friend as well and begin an alliance that would last long into the future. It was through him that we were blessed with the seeds of the Mallorn, where they would only grow in the garden and thus some of the seeds were provided to Galadriel.I knew that Arnardil would hold a special place in my heart. It was through him that I returned to Numenor again to see him take Erendis as his wife. In time, he would take the throne and cense his travels to Middle Earth. I would never again see him in person as even the Numenoreans had such short lives compared to the immortal lifespan of elves. Although, I could recall him fondly in the coming centuries when I looked upon any of the Numenoreans settlements that he created. I would always few Vinyalonde with a heavy heart torn between gratefulness and sadness for it had saved Lindon but would also claim so much in return.
~Year 900 of the Second Year
I smiled as I walked up the hills towards Amon Lanc to visit King Oropher and Prince Thranduil. I found that the kingdom here that he happened upon was founded by the Silvan elves. I imagined that it would prove to be rather interesting learning about it. I was sure that there was a wealth of knowledge in their customs that were so different from the ways of those in Lindon or Eregion. The kingdom was called Greenwood the Great, and I found it very fitting for the lush green found throughout the lands. The settlement itself was on top of a high hill that could easily overlook the land surrounding it.“Princess Siladhiel.” King Oropher greeted me with a serious look, but his eyes softened on the sight of me.“King Oropher.” I said with a bright smile before stepping forward and hugging him in greeting “It had been too long since we have crossed paths. I was overjoyed to learn of your kingdom from Celebrimbor.”“I shall thank him for informing you and thus allowing you to grace my kingdom.” King Oropher commented before turning to Thranduil.“Thranduil.” I whispered in happiness stepping forward to hug him “Or shall I call you Prince Thranduil now?”“You shall always know me as Thranduil, Princess.” Thranduil assured me as I softened slightly and nodded in thankfulness.“Then perhaps one day I shall also have you call me by my own name.” I replied stepping away from my friend who smirked in return.“Perhaps.” Thranduil commented teasingly before softening “I do so look forward to hearing of your adventures that you have seen since our paths last crossed in Eregion.”“I do believe that you would find yourself bored with my adventures. This is the first time I traveled outside of Lindon and Eregion since we last spoke.” I murmured knowing that my father had taken to training me more often as if to prepare me for something to come.“Then we shall ensure that you have tales to take with you to share with your father, Princess.” King Oropher commented as I smiled brightly at him hoping that it would be an entertaining visit.“Come, Princess of light.” Thranduil joked as I sighed at the name that followed me everywhere “Let us reveal to you the greatest of all elven kingdoms.”“You will never get me to agree with that statement, Prince of Exaggeration.” I said in return as Thranduil chuckled at my jest and simply led me along as even his father looked amused.Even after the extended duration that I spent with them within Greenwood the Great, I would always state that Lindon was the greatest of the Elven Kingdoms. However, I grew to love the kingdom that was ruled by King Oropher for they were peaceful elves. I found many things that I would learn to be truly unlike that of the other kingdoms. They had a language that I had to learn from Thranduil in order to fully understand. The silvan elves were weary of those that they did not know but were quite taken with me. King Oropher was quick to point out that it was the purity that others sensed in my true spirit.Thranduil was the one that showed me that their elves used bows most often. I was fascinated when I learned of this since I had never seen an elf wield a bow before. King Oropher had attempted to dissuade my desire to learn for myself. He quickly learned that his son was teaching me when he was attending to his duties. Before I departed to return home that first time, Thranduil and Oropher themselves vowed to craft me my own bow one day. It would take centuries before a bow made of Mallorn wood and mithril that they received from Celeborn and Celebrimbor was delivered to me. They both crafted a bow unlike any other bow in Middle Earth to reflect that they believed that my training to wield such a weapon was completed.The thing that I found I adored the most about the silvan elves was their song. I often heard the various ways that they sang with their entire selves shining. Music was common among all the elves, but it seemed to shine from within them. While Lindon is named as the land of music, I found that the Sindar influence with the Silvan elves made their songs filled with a peace that even my people could not match. I would often just rest as I listened to their voices drifting in harmony through the kingdom, finding the same peace that I found in my home. Noldor were a people of knowledge and power while it seemed that the silvan were a people of music and the land. I hoped that nothing would tarnish their peace and harmony.
~Year 1000 of the Second Age
I shivered harshly as I felt the feel of darkness brush against my spirit from the south. I stiffened and fought the urge to turn to stare in that direction. My father immediately turned in my direction when I showed that something affected my spirit. I had felt the presence of darkness for just a second before it disappeared once more. I had reason to cause alarm once more for sensing it in the far south. There have been times that scouts were needlessly sent and returned with no sighting of anything that could have caused my reaction. Even now, it felt like nothing had changed in the lands.“You have sensed the darkness again.” My father murmured as he took a seat at my side, and I sighed heavily.“It matters not, father. It was gone before I could truly understand it.” I offered as I leaned into his side taking comfort from his light embracing mine.“I do not wish for you to sense this darkness.” My father replied in a whisper as he looked at the tree growing in the center of our garden.“It is the reason that you did not return with mother.” I said with a heavy heart as I kept my eyes on the tree as well not wishing to see the pain in my father’s eyes “Do not attempt to deny it.”“Little Light.” My father whispered as I closed my eyes and shook my head slightly.“You stayed for me.” I commented as I looked at him when he stiffened “I can only reason that this presence is one that I sense because it is I that am connected to it.”“This darkness has nothing to do with you, daughter.” My father replied as I looked at him in exasperation.“Long have you hidden the truth from me and yet, I sense within you cause for fear when I speak of this darkness. Am I truly not to be trusted with such information?” I asked in pain as I had long since grown tired of him keeping the cause of alarm from me.“It is true that I remained here and formed Lindon for you.” My father explained after a moment as I swallowed thickly “Your mother foresaw on your birth that your fate is tied to this kingdom and the destruction of a great darkness. I cannot tell you if it is this darkness that you sense or another that has yet to come.”“If it weren’t this darkness then I doubt that I would sense it from such a distance, even for just a moment.” I responded as my father nodded in reluctant agreement “I do not fear it, father. I shall ensure to honor you and our kingdom if it shall come to defending us against this darkness.”“I shall remain at your side, Siladhiel.” My father murmured leaning forward to kiss my forehead softly “When this darkness reveals itself to the world, you shall not stand alone.”“I know.” I whispered with a sad smile knowing that my father had already sacrificed so much to remain here and ensure that I was prepared for the destiny that my mother had seen.“And yet, your heart is saddened. I assure you, little light, there is no other place that I would rather be than at your side.” My father said gently with a smile as I nodded knowing that it was the complete truth.“I simply wish, father, that you did not have to live on without mother while you remain here to assist me in the future. I know not your pain, but I wish there were something that I could do to ease it.” I replied knowing that Elves were not meant to be without their other halves.“I find that I am comforted by your presence for more than your bright light, Siladhiel.” My father commented placing a gentle hand on my face “As much as others look upon you and see a reflection of me, I look upon you and see so much of your mother in your image.”“Truly?” I questioned him while blinking tears at the thought of it.“Indeed, there is much of your mother within you. You are the reflection of both of us and are one of a kind, Siladhiel. Never doubt that you are the best of both of us.” My father said with a smile as I returned it “However, the light within you belongs solely to you. There has never been nor will there ever be another with such a purity or goodness.”I smiled at his compliment as he wrapped his arms around me. I allowed a moment to lean into him and take strength from him. I always viewed my father as the greatest of all the elves. I had never seen one to have more grace and knowledge. My father was heroic and honorable in all the ways that I hoped to be one day. I could not imagine who I would be with my father’s influence and support. I was even more thankful that he had chosen to stay in Middle Earth out of love for me. I knew the tales of elves that were separated from those that they were bound to. I hoped that I would be strong enough to ensure that his sacrifice proved worthy. Just in case you want to see the necklace they created for the Princess of Light. I saw this one and thought it was perfect for her!

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Chapter

~Siladhiel Point of View~

~Year 1200 of the Second age
I was not even a little guilty of having the traveler followed when he left. I wished to ensure that he truly left the lands of Lindon. I did not trust this traveler that called himself Annatar. There was something within him that spoke of hidden intent that I simply could not allow within the kingdom. I was not one to typically dislike someone immediately, but there was little light found within Annatar that appeared true. I turned to my father, not at all surprised to find him watching me with eyes filled with concern. It had been noticeable that I was uncomfortable in the traveler’s presence.“I do not believe that we should trust this traveler, father.” I said to him honestly as my father furrowed his eyebrow slightly in thought.“Did you sense something about the traveler, daughter?” My father asked me after a long moment as I frowned knowing now that he didn’t sense anything wrong about him.“I cannot be certain of it is that I sensed within him. I can only say that we should be wary of his presence. I do not believe him or his false promises.” I murmured in explanation as I tried to understand exactly what it was that I sensed from Annatar.“I shall trust your judgement on this traveler, little light.” My father assured me as I relaxed considerably “Annatar will not find permission to enter Lindon with his desires to enforce his will on us.”“What of Celebrimbor, Galadriel, and Celeborn?” I questioned him seriously knowing that this traveler came here on their word after listening to what he had to offer them.“We shall inform them that they should use caution in regard to this traveler.” My father replied reaching out to place a hand on my shoulder “If it shall provide you a measure of peace, little light, you may write them on your resolve to stand against him and have hope that they too should not be deceived by his promises.”“I fear that it may not be enough to turn them from this path. They long for things that are not of this land and shall never be.” I whispered with a heavy heart as my father softened slightly, sensing it within my spirit.“The fault will not be upon your shoulders. Even you cannot control the will of others. If they follow this traveler and your belief of his deception is confirmed in the days to come, then it will be their burden to bear.” My father responded as I sighed, feeling as if the entire future weighed in on this moment and I was failing to prevent it.“I fear that by the time his deception is revealed to the world that it will forever change the fate of the world.” I mumbled with a measure of unease at the thought as my father tugged me into his arms as if trying to shelter me.“Long have I lived, little light, and never have I found such faith that you will stand against all that you face.” My father whispered before placing a kiss on my forehead “If this traveler is the darkness you are destined to fight, you will not fail. I shall ensure it.”“You cannot make such a promise.” I replied with a frown as my father smiled, amused at my statement.“Perhaps, I cannot.” My father said with fondness “There are many changing paths for the future, and I am sure in all the possibilities, even those unwritten, will tell of your strength and light. I shall have hope that your light shall never parish, for no darkness can tarnish it.”“Even the smallest of lights can banish the darkest of nights.” I murmured as I recalled those words as my father nodded with a smile.“Indeed, total darkness cannot exist in the presence of light. If there is light within the world from within you then there is hope for this land.” My father assured me once more as I closed my eyes feeling his arms tighten on me.I wished for the day that I had the same hope for myself as my father had in me. I did not know what this traveler hoped to gain from befriending the elves. I could even see that Annatar was persuasive and cunning in ways that seemed to hide his falsehoods. I knew that my father had chosen not to trust him without my say, but he did not sense what I had within him. Annatar seemed to be a pure being and the promises were tempting to those that desired the betterment of the world.There was something of an illusion that I sensed within him. One that I could not find the words to properly voice as even the purest of elves sensed darkness within Annatar. Still, I trusted what my true self had detected within Annatar, and I felt foolish for judging him for something that I, myself, could not fully understand. My father would speak with our companions that led Eregion and Ost-in-Edhil regarding his distrust of the traveler that claimed to be sent from the Valar to teach the elves.I was relieved when I learned that Celebrimbor and Galadriel were also wary of such promises. I had turned away from the problem for many centuries unaware of the issues that their secretive nature would cause. The leaders of Eregion did not openly share their distrust of Annatar and permitted him to wander through without question. Unlike Lindon, Annatar was able to befriend and form alliances within Eregion. Among the elves that he befriended was the Gwaith-i-Mirdain in Eregion. It would be a friendship that would prove most dangerous to the world.
~Year 1350 of the Second Age
I had heard tales of the Kingdom of Nandorin that was located near both Eregion and Greenwood the Great throughout the centuries. I knew the elves that dwelled in that realm were secretive folk that did not always take kindly to others. I had never thought I would be able to explore the realm or learn of the elves there until Celeborn, Galadriel, and Celebrian relocated to the woods of Lothlorien. I was delighted at the fortune of being able to travel to this new realm and explore to my own heart’s content.‘Long have you traveled, princess of light. Lorien welcomes you.’ Galadriel said in my mind when I assumed that she sensed my spirit within the forest.‘I would feel much more welcome if I was to set my sight upon you, Celeborn, and Celebrian.’ I replied using telepathy as I had still not fully reached the realm.‘You need only continue straight towards the center to find Caras Galadhon.’ Galadriel responded in seeming amusement as I smiled and quickened my steps.‘Shall I chase you through Caras Galadhon as well?’ I asked in return before I paused to take in the enchanting realm in the trees.‘We wait for you within the trees, princess of light.’ Galadriel sent in amusement as I shook my head and cut the connection when I sensed them.I took time with my approach as I took in the details of the settlement. I could tell that there were varying degrees of emotions from the elves at my arrival. I had expected their genuine emotion as they looked upon my true self. My light seemed to hum with lands as pure as those found in this realm. Others were wary of me due to me being unknown to them. I knew that these elves had been unknown to the world and lived independently. There was an air of isolation here that I had not found in any other realms, even that of Greenwood the Great. The two kingdoms were close to each other but could not be more different.“Princess Siladhiel.” Celeborn said as I finally reached the area that they waited for me with two other elves “Welcome to Lorien. King Admir rules these lands.”“I am pleased to meet you, King Admir.” I murmured to the elf at his side who was watching me closely “You have a beautiful realm and I deeply appreciate your permittance to enter here to visit my dear friends as well as welcoming them so.”“It has proven that they are one with the trees just as we are. The elves from Eregion have become Galadrim in the promise of peace as they fear the darkness within your realm.” King Amdir responded as I stiffened at the mention of darkness.“You will find that darkness is not found in Lindon.” I pointed out to him as Amdir narrowed his eyes on me.“This is Princess Siladhiel, daughter of High King Gil-Galad, for Lindon and the Noldor.” Celeborn cut in gently with a slight protective edge “All of those that know her call her the Princess of Light.”“I am pleased to meet the princess of light. I find the name fitting for one as pure as you, Princess Siladhiel. I am Prince Amroth of Lindon.” Prince Amroth said in introduction as I smiled at his clear attempt to interrupt his father.“Strange that one such as you would be of the Noldor.” King Amdir commented as I stiffened at the clear insult, and it clearly surprised Celeborn and Galadriel.“I am proud to be Noldor and even more proud to be the daughter of King Gil-Galad. I shall not place judgement upon you based on your descent. I ask for the same consideration in return.” I replied in ease having expected an issue, just not due to my connection to the Noldor “I truly meant to explore and learn of those within your realm without ill intent. If my presence here disheartens you, then I shall remove it from your forests and never return.”“Even I shall not deny one of your purity entry to my realm.” King Admir replied after a moment with a strange look in his eyes before turning to his son “I shall leave Celeborn and Galadriel to escort you through our kingdom. I trust that you will find a wealth of knowledge to explore while hosted here.”“I will strive to learn all that is possible before I must return to Lindon.” I murmured with a smile hoping that it would thaw the king slightly, but all the King did was turn sharply and walk away. “I look forward to learning more from you as well, Princess Siladhiel.” Prince Amroth said with a smile before quickly following after his father.“I shall hope that by the time I depart that King Armir does warm to my presence here so I may visit in the future.” I whispered after a moment causing Celeborn to smile in amusement “I do not know why you would relocate to Lorien if they do not welcome elves here outside of those within their realm.”“Annatar’s presence grows in Eregion. When I saw that he influences would grow beyond my ability to prevent, I turned from Eregion and took to the forests of Lorthlorien.” Galadriel explained as I stiffened at that information.“We have left Lord Celebrimbor in charge of Eregion under your father’s command.” Celeborn murmured as he looked stiff over the conversation and slightly angry.‘I have seen the darkness, princess. Dark times are ahead for us all, princess of light, and the only hope that remains is within the strength of your spirit that must weather the times to come.’ Galadriel said as I flinched at the message and the use of telepathy.‘If Eru Iluvatar deems my fate is tied to the darkness that you have seen then I shall not fail to stand until I see it banished from these lands.’ I thought to her in return as Galadriel’s eyes gleamed watching me.‘As long as your light shines, I shall have hope for us all.’ Galadriel sent to my mind before breaking the connection with a smile.“Come, let us show you the majesty of Lorien.” Galadriel commented with an air of softness “The elves of Lorien have taken the name of Galadhrim. You will find a mix of elves of Nandorin, Avarin, and Sindarin descent within our borders.”“That would certainly explain why I find myself at a loss to understand some of your words.” I replied with a smile as I looked at her “Perhaps, I could persuade you to teach me this dialect.”I quickly found that Galadriel, Celeborn, and Celebrian seemed to belong within Lorien. I would learn that all the Galadrim had a special relationship with the forests. The blend of different descents of the elves that came together in one place made for an interesting combination. One thing that was very noticeable was that these elves were ones with the trees that surrounded them. Even Caras Galadhon was built into the trees in an enchanting way that was not found in the other Elven Kingdoms. Thus, the Mallorn tree seeds were provided to fill their unique realm with even more beauty and protection.
~Year 1500 of the Second Age
I stiffened when I stopped moving towards when I took notice of Annatar in the distance. I had not expected him to be in Ost-in-Edain when I was traveling through Eregion. I was here mainly to visit Lord Celebrimbor and check on the realm. Celebrimbor had sent a letter to Lindon speaking of how he wished to show me what the jewel smiths had been working on. Celebrimbor had managed to speak to my curious nature knowing that I rather enjoyed gaining knowledge from him. Ultimately, I simply missed my dear friend and wished to be in his presence once more. My father would be highly upset when he learned that Annatar was indeed within Eregion when I came to the realm.“Princess Siladhiel.” Annatar greeted me brightly with a smile the moment he saw me before I could disappear from his sight “I am delighted to see you in Eregion. I did so hope that I would be graced with the sight of you once more.”“Annatar.” I replied fighting the urge to stiffen again when he overlooked me with interest “I was hoping to visit the Mirdain. Lord Celebrimbor has expressed his desire to show me their crafts.”“I shall lead you there, princess.” Annatar directed me as he turned back in the direction of the jewel smiths “I am quite fond of how the elves of Eregion have taken to the knowledge I wish to teach. It seems that you are most curious as well, as your nature as a noldor suggests.”“Indeed, I find that I desire to gain as much knowledge as possible. Although, my exploration tends to lend towards the creatures and realms themselves.” I offered knowing that I could actively spur him since not nearly enough was known about him “Lord Celebrimbor is the one for crafts as commonly found with the Noldor.”“Perhaps, you would allow me to show you and it would change your mind on crafting jewels of your own.” Annatar said as he brushed his hand along my arm with a charming smile.“I think not.” Lord Celebrimbor commented as he approached with a smile, but his eyes showed his worry “You will find, Annatar, that many a jewel has already been crafted for Princess Siladhiel and now would have her in the mines or a darkened place to make her own.”“I shall concede in agreement simply because one as beautiful and pure should be taken care of always. Jewels should be made for her that speak of her unmatched grace and soft features.” Annatar said with a leer of interest as Celebrimbor stepped close to me.“Come, princess, I believe that the mirdain have many a jewel for you to awe over.” Celebrimbor replied as he placed a hand on my arm to comfort me in Annatar’s presence “Perhaps, we may finally find one worthy of you.”“How easily you forget that I have received many worthy items.” I joked ignored the way that Annatar glared at Celebrimbor “I am honored to wear the jewelry that others have carefully crafted for me.”“Am I to assume that the necklace’s craftmanship was Lord Celebrimbor’s creation?” Annatar asked me as I entered the workspace hearing the should of the mithril being hit.“This was crafted by the Dwarves for me when this realm was first settled.” I explain unable to stop the fond smile.“Hm, the elves have proven to be more skilled with delicate designs. Perhaps, I can rework it for you and make it truly in your image.” Annatar commented as Celebrimbor looked angry before leading me over to Pengolodh making me smile brightly.“Pengolodh! I trust that your endless venture for knowledge had proved successful with your studies in Khazad-dum.” I said to the Nolder elf that resided in Lindon until wishing to learn the language and craftmanship here.“Indeed, princess, I have learned much from Lord Annatar and Lord Celebrimbor.” Pengolodh replied as I fought the urge to wince at his clear favor for Annatar.“There is much skill in these.” I comment looked at the ring that he was working on in front of him as I tilted my head sensing the power within it “This is no normal ring.”“It is not. These rings are meant to enrich the land and bring the elves the power to create Tol Eressea in this land.” Annatar offered as I felt my eyes widen at the promise “Indeed, there is magic within that will bring forth the ability.”“Hm.” I hummed lightly not knowing what to say as Annatar seemed to take it as a compliment.“Perhaps, you will allow me to create one for you princess.” Annatar whispered as he attempted to lean closer to me.“As honored as I would be, Lord Annatar, my father has forbidden me from receiving rings without his expressed permission.” I replied hoping it would dissuade him from attempting it in the future.“The gifting of rings is sacred to the elves.” Lord Celebrimbor commented as he placed a hand on my shoulder “Even I am not permitted to gift her such.”I could tell that Annatar took it as an insult. It would be just another reason for him to hate my father so. My father was the only Elven leader to stand so strongly against him. Celeborn and Galadriel were pushed away from their realm because of his influence. Thus far, he had not suspected that Lord Celebrimbor did not fully trust him as well. I was the one that he looked upon as if I were too pure to dislike him. He took every offense on my part as something that was forced upon me from my father. I didn’t think his obsession with gaining my favor would bode well for me.Thankfully, Annatar seemed to let the matter of creating me jewelry with his hands drop. It was his attention being elsewhere that allowed me to watch the way that Celebrimbor seemed quite taken with the rings. I dared not touch any of the rings as I wondered what purpose Annatar could have with such a creation. I feared the way that Celebrimbor seemed to wish to learn how to craft them upon learning of their ability. I sincerely hoped that he could fight the desire as none of us were aware of Annatar’s true desire. I could never have imagined what would come of something as small as the rings crafted by the Gwain-in-mirdain of Eregion.
~Year 1600 of the Second Age
I looked towards the south as a language that I could not hope to understand drifted in the wind. My mind was overwhelmed with the sight of Annatar holding something in his hand. There was a tower as dark as night that was built to the sky. A mountain of great fire and an army of darkness sweeping the lands. There were glimpses of warning that spoke of a future being formed in the moment. The whispers of the unknown language filled my ears.“What have you seen?” My father asked me in clear concern as he placed a hand on my shoulder to gain my attention.“I saw Annatar within a mountain and he was crafting something. I saw a dark tower to the sky and Annatar as its lord. I saw an army march to darken the lands.” I explained as my father almost looked disappointed in me.“Do you know what he was crafting?” My father queried after a moment of thought as I shook my head sharply.“No, I simply saw that it was Annatar that crafted it. I cannot control the foresight as well as others.” I commented while wishing that it were something that could be trained to better aid us “There was a foul language on the wind, father. One that I do not understand and fear even speaking.”“Am I to assume that the whispers of the wind hail from the south?” My father questioned me as I nodded in confirmation “It seems that whatever darkness that Annatar hopes to bring will come from the south. I will send out scouts and inform Lord Celebrimbor to caution the elves. It is time that Annatar learns that the Noldor will not welcome him.”“Let us hope that it is not too late.” I whispered as I glanced back towards the south where the darkness was simply a glimmer of what I had seen it become.My father did not voice his thoughts at that moment, but there was a hardened look in his eyes. It was at this moment that I saw the warrior that he needed to be before peace was found here. My heart ached at the knowledge that darkness would once consume so much and bring the elves back into a battle. Elves were meant to take to nature and live in peace with their crafts and music. I did not wish to see any Elves forced to fight once more. I knew that if we failed to stop Annatar that those of our realm would go to war without question to follow my father once more. I did not wish for it to come too late.
~Time Lapse: Same Year
I stared at the rings that lay on the table that Lord Celebrimbor had brought to Lindon. I had been training with my father when Lord Cirdan arrived to summon us while stating that Lord Celebrimbor had arrived with urgent news. Now, I wondered what my dear friend had done with the creation of these rings. It had been a few months since scouts were sent out to speak with Celebrimbor and head south to locate the dark tower. I had not expected Lord Celebrimbor to appear with two rings of untold power that he named Vilya and Narya.“Annatar had no part in their creation.” Lord Celebrimbor explained as neither of us moved to touch the ring.“Long have we been friends, why would you create these?” My father questioned Celebrimbor in seeming disappointment.“I crafted three in secret without Annatar’s knowledge. They are the most powerful of the rings created and are to be wielded by the leaders of the Elves.” Celebrimbor offered as I stepped forward placing my hand on his arm.“You wished to provide the elves with the ability to stand against Annatar should his rings of creation be used against us.” I whispered softly as Celebrimbor nodded in confirmation and my heart ached for the guilt in his eyes.“Sauron created another ring within the fires of Orodruin. I do not know the powers of it or the purpose of the others.” Celebrimbor murmured as I realized that the look on his face was defeat “I failed to notice that he had truly deceived the mirdain.”“What of the other rings?” I asked as knowing that the smiths had made quite a few at the direction of Annatar.“I have given another of my creations to Galadriel in hopes that she will protect Lothlorien should Sauron discover the elves that reside there. I have provided three to King Durin, his son, and his grandson in hopes that the lessor rings power will assist them in protecting Khazad-dum should Sauron attempt to overtake them. There are thirteen that remain under guard in Ost-in-Edhil.” Celebrimbor explained as I glanced at my father when he shifted to pick up Vilya that was crafted from mithril and a polished blue jewel. “What is the purpose of this ring?” My father questioned me after a moment as he inspected the craftmanship.“Vilya gifts the power of protection through water. It houses the ability to purify lands when close to water.” Celebrimbor directed as I looked at the tiny ring in surprise “While Lindon’s land remains the purest in the land, I had hoped that it would ensure that it remains so.”“If something happens to me…” I murmured softly knowing that I was the Light of Lindon, and it was my ability to purify the lands as well as keeping the Garden of Light safe that caused these lands to be so pure.“It will assist you.” Celebrimbor promised me as I glanced at the others ring in question “Narya is a ring that aim in bringing hope and peace to the wielder as well as those around the one that possesses it.”“I am assuming that this ring is to be worn by Lord Cirdan.” I commented as I glanced at the elf in question.“You have no need for either ring, little light. Also, I vowed to never gift you a ring and I feared your father’s reaction should I attempt to do so.” Celebrimbor whispered as Lord Cirdan reached for Narya and slid it on his finger “May Narya prove useful to you, Lord Cirdan.”“What of you, Lord Celebrimbor?” Lord Cirdan questioned him as Lord Celebrimbor shook his head sharply.“Whatever fate that I brought on Eregion, I shall bear it without the power of a ring to aid me. Sauron will come for the remaining rings, and should I fall, I shall no wish for him to gain one of that equals their power.” Celebrimbor explained as we all looked at him and knew we could not dissuade him.“You shall never bear it alone. Should Annatar come for Eregion, then Lindon will aid you in your plight.” My father promised seriously as I smiled in confirmation and Celebrimbor nodded as he stepped forward to pat my father’s shoulder.“Let us hope that it will not come to it.” Celebrimbor replied as I smiled at the sight of the two great warriors.At the time, I could not have known the danger in those three rings. Celebrimbor had used caution in their creation and ensured that no one was aware of their crafting. They were secreted away to the oldest Noldor in Middle Earth. Celebrimbor had not known at the time of the language used or he would have never created the rings. It would be nearly a century before we would discover the permanent connection that was formed between all of the rings of power.It was only the grace and purity of the elves that ensured that my father, Lord Cirdan, and Galadriel would not be bound to the power of the ring. They were able to withstand the power of the one enough to remove the rings. It was an action that told Annatar that there were rings created outside of his knowledge. In this moment, there was just too much unknown information to have the wisdom to know better than to leave all the remaining rings in one place. If I had known of the connection between them, I would have let them be lost at sea.
~Time Lapse: Same Year
I stared in awe at the elf and two Istari that arrived on our shores from Valinor. The two wizards were powerful in their skill and cloaked in blue. However, it was truly that elf that spoke of a purity that rivaled my own light. My father welcomed the elf and spoke his name as Glorfindel. I was still staring at him in awe when my father turned to introduce us pausing on the look of my face. I only shook myself out of my own stupor when the elf became amused at my staring. My father raised an eyebrow as I quickly became horrified at my own reaction.“I am pleased to meet you, princess of light. Those within Valinor speak highly of you. Now that I have been blessed with witnesses your true spirit with my own eyes, I shall agree with the tales of your light and beauty being unmatched in all the world.” Glorfindel murmured with a smile as he bowed before me.“Me?” I questioned him, still feeling a little dazed before I shook my head “Welcome to Lindon, Lord Glorfindel. Although, I must beg the question as to your reinstatement after all these years.”“I have been sent on a mission to assist in a darkness that rises in power and might.” Glorfindel commented as my father frowned glancing between the three arrivals.“Come, let us speak in private.” My father directed them as he turned to walk towards the palace, and I followed him with the travelers at my side.“I do not believe that you spoke your names.” I murmured to the two Istari as they smiled at me.“I am called Palacendo, and this is Haimenar.” Palacendo introduced themselves to me softly as his companion nodded in greeting once more.“I am Siladhiel.” I replied making them look slightly amused and I realized that they also were aware of who I was.“We are aware of you from tales in Valinor and in Numenor. The King of the Numenor speak very highly of you and your father.” Glorfindel responded at my other side as I smiled at him feeling small in comparison to such a warrior that was so clearly blessed in his rebirth.“I am quite fond of the Numenoreans.” I murmured softly knowing that it had been quite some time since I saw to visit their land but often visited them within these lands.“The favor is returned.” Glorfindel commented with a smirk as my father pushed open the door to the council chambers.“You bring warnings from Valinor.” My father said as soon as the door shut behind us.“Manwe has sought to send aid upon the discovery that Sauron had been regaining strength and is plotting against Middle Earth once more.” Glorfindel explained as I stiffened at the information.“Annatar…” I whispered in fear as Glorfindel nodded in confirmation that Annatar’s identity was none other than the servant of Morgoth himself.“We were sent here to assist in the fight to come against Sauron.” Palacendo directed us as I glanced at my father seeing his face hardened at who our foe truly was “We must locate Sauron and ensure he does not gain the strength to darken these lands forever.”“I would start in the east towards the south.” My father directed as he glanced at me, and I nodded in agreement with that plan.“Indeed, if Sauron truly wishes to gain power against those that would stand against him, he will journey to lands that are not so closely allied with us. I have often sensed him towards the far south and east. Although, I cannot be sure of the exact location as he travels often.” I explained honestly as the wizards nodded in understanding “He does have a dwelling that he built called Barad-dur near Ered Lithui.”“You have seen this?” Haimenar questioned me in surprise as I nodded in confirmation.“I have seen an army of darkness from the east and the dark tower. There have been scouts from Eregion that confirmed the dwelling of Sauron, though he is not said to remain there often.” I said recalling that we weren’t aware of exactly how he came and went from the tower.“Then we shall begin our search there.” Palacendo replied glancing at Haimenar that nodded in agreement with that plan.“I shall remain here and assist the elves in the days to come.” Glorfindel offered as my father raised his eyebrow “The Istari have been sent with the mission of locating Sauron while I have been sent to assist the elves against the darkness.”“You have been blessed.” My father murmured sensing that he had been touched by the spirit of Valinor and now held power within him.“Indeed, it seemed that the cause of my death made them feel that I was worthy of the blessing.” Glorfindel explained as I smiled at him knowing that his tale of defeating the Balog spoke of amazing strength.“I welcome your knowledge and assistance.” My father commented as I smiled brightly at the option of hearing tales from Glorfindel and learning from him.Glorfindel seemed amused at the way that my true self brightened considerably at that confirmation. My father frowned once more before shaking his head and sending us from the chambers. I wished that I could assure my father that I wouldn’t grow in affection for Glorfindel. Glorfindel became one of my closest companions in no time at all. It was often that you would find us in each other's presences whether it was traveling the lands or training for the possible war to come. There was a wealth of knowledge that Glorfindel held that I was fascinated by and readily wished to learn everything that he had to offer. Glorfindel alliance to Lindon was strong and his assistance in days to come would prove vital.The blue wizards soon departed Lindon for the east and would prove vital in the fight to come. Palacendo and Haimenar would soon become known as Morinehtar and Romestamo in the South and East. Their influence would ensure that Sauron would not gain the alliances that would overtake the western alliances. The only alliance that they held in the west would remain solely with Lindon’s leadership. Even with the arrival of other Istari in the future, the blue wizards would remain the most influential in their missions. I would come to know them as the most honorable and pure of all the wizards. As they would never lose sight of their true purpose, even with the strongest of temptations.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Chapter

~Siladhiel Point of View~

~Year 1693 of the Second age
In a single second, I recognized the moment that the world had changed. My father was speaking with Lord Cirdan when they both stiffened suddenly. I saw a darkness surge around both of them in a clear attempt to control them through the rings on their fingers as I was hit by the visions of the future as it changed. I stumbled under the weight of the visions as I saw Sauron leaning massive armies against the world. I saw Eriador overtaken by darkness as Sauron tore apart the lands with vengeance. I saw a ring at the center of it all as Sauron’s power grew beyond measure. I saw the corruption of all the species of Middle-Earth as I struggled to breathe under the weight of the future that Eru Iluvatar was revealing to me.Then as suddenly as the visions of the future took over my mind they ended abruptly. I felt my spirit weaken as I stumbled forward in confusion and shock. Glorfindel’s hands were already reaching forward to steady me and stop me from hitting the ground. I looked up at him with shock and dread filling me to the core of my being. Glorfindel pulled me quickly in his arm as the light of his true-self embraced mine. I could feel his concern and I knew that he desired to weather the storm for me. I closed my eyes before taking the courage to look to the side to look at my father and Lord Cirdan. I relaxed considerably seeing the rings discarded on the table and neither of them under the control of Sauron.“Father.” I whispered looking at my father as he watched me in concern “You have overcome the power of darkness.”“It seems that Celebrimbor has much to answer for.” My father replied as he glanced over the two rings that lay on the table “Do not fear, little light, we were able to remove the rings before they could bind us to Sauron’s will.”“Celebrimbor did not know of the language within the rings. These rings were more dangerous than any of us could have expected. Sauron bonded them to the ring that he wields.” I murmured as I felt cold dread settle in my stomach “He knows of the three and they cannot be used any longer.”“Indeed, they will need to be hidden away. The power is not worth the risk of falling to Sauron’s intentions. I have seen the armies that he meant to raise under him to command the Elves.” My father responded as I nodded having seen the same in the vision.“He will come for them and those that Celebrimbor possesses. Sauron will not yield until he obtains them.” I said seriously before frowning deeply “Someone will need to ensure that Galadriel has not been corruption by the power of her ring.”“We have sensed her when Sauron placed his one his person. You need not worry, little light. Galadriel removed the ring after we become aware of Sauron’s plans just as we did.” Lord Cirdan assured me as I nodded in relief that Lothlorien was not corrupted.“I do believe that I should ride out to warn her that the ring needs to be hidden away and never spoken of. Sauron is unaware of the dwellings within Lorien and Greenwood. It could prove useful to ensure that he does not become aware of them.” I offered seriously as I recalled that Sauron’s darkness and hatred was aimed at us “Then I shall go to Eregion and bring warnings of Sauron to Celebrimbor. Sauron will attack there before others, and he must be prepared to defend his people.”“Sauron will need time to build his armies.” My father replied with a frown as I shook my head sharply.“Be that as it may, we need to warn Lord Celebrimbor as soon as able to enable him the ability to strengthen his defenses. You forget the warning of Sauron attempting to gather alliances from the Numenoreans of Ethir Anduin. He may already have the army to bring forth the darkness that he desires.” I said honestly, feeling as if it was a matter of utmost importance.“I shall expect that Glorfindel is all too willing to travel with you.” My father pointed out with a deep frown glancing at the elf that still held me close to him.“I shall ensure her protection above all others. You need not worry about Sauron, or his forces ever being granted the chance to harm or take Princess Siladhiel.” Glorfindel commented seriously as I huffed against him “Not to say that you are not capable of protecting yourself, Princess.”“Very well, go forth and inform the others of the dark times ahead.” My father murmured with a frown, and I knew how hard it was for him to permit this.“Thank you, father. I shall return as swiftly as possible.” I replied softly as I moved to hug him tightly.“Be safe, little light.” My father whispered as he placed a kiss on my forehead “May Eru Iluvatar watch after you.”I took a few moments to take strength from my father and his words before gathering the supplies that I would need for the long journey. In the coming months there was a great deal of preparations done to secure the rings from Sauron. All three of the rings that Celebrimbor made were hidden away as they were the greatest power besides the one ring that Sauron wielded. The Durins hid away their own rings as well as I wondered at the strength and stubbornness of dwarves that prevented them from becoming corrupted by Sauron. The coming years would be hard if the continuing visions of darkness were anything to go by and the elves would suffer many losses. The only light within the visions were the ones that spoke of the changes that the blue wizards had achieved. They were powerful allies that were causing rebellions against Sauron along with dissension and disarray in the Eastern Lands that prevented Sauron from amassing more forces.It was the only comfort that I took in a time where there was so little that would be offered to me. Glorfindel remained by my side when I made the choice to remain with Celebrimbor despite my own father’s demands that I return to Lindon and the security of my kingdom. I found that I could not abandon Celebrimbor in his time of need while knowing that Sauron would come there first. Celebrimbor focused on trying to find a way to destroy the one ring or any of the rings while Glorfindel and I took to securing the nation as much as possible. I could only hope that we would be fully prepared when Sauron came for the remaining rings.
~Year 1695 of the Second Age
I took a heavy breath as I watched the messenger ride off to Lindon. The messenger was the one that would be tasked with requesting assistance from my father. Sauron’s attacks on Eregion were getting bolder and we were rather limited in our defense. I knew that if we did not receive additional force from my kingdom then we would not be able to hold out against Sauron’s forces. Despite theThe scouts that had been stationed throughout the lands had proven highly beneficial thus far in detecting and tracking Sauron’s movements. They were able to detect that he had traveled through Calenardhon before heading through the gap of Rohan. From there, the scouts watched as Sauron’s army turned north towards Eregion after entering Eriador. When I learned that the people of the lands did not withhold them, I wrote the message to my father. The anger of the people against the Numenoreans was something that I hadn’t accounted for, and Sauron would attack much sooner than any of us predicted. If Eregion would hold against Sauron, then my father needed to send aid from Lindon.Celebrimbor, Celeborn, Glorfindel, my father, and myself all knew that his first target would be the capital of Eregion. The remaining rings that were not in hiding were under the safeguard of the guild that created them to begin with. I was not a fool to believe that Sauron would not come at us with everything he had in order to retrieve them. He may not be able to use them to control the elves, but he could still use them to build an army that we would not be able to fight off. I couldn’t allow Sauron’s force to cause the downfall of Eregion and gain those rings of power for Sauron to create darkness across the lands.“Let’s hope that your father’s aid reaches in time.” Glorfindel commented as he continued using his Maia like abilities to hold back Sauron’s forces while the elves on defense were completing a change of guard.“Let’s hope that Celebrimbor finishes his task soon.” I replied easily knowing that Eregion wasn’t the ultimate goal, it was Celebrimbor’s research on the rings and how they functioned.“Celebrimbor is unable to read the language to know what the rings are.” Celeborn said with a frown as I narrowed my eyes to the younger elves checking their weapons in order to head out to the border, we secured last night.“The script has stated that he has grasped the language and is research the words that is one the ring.” I explained recalling the meeting the elf that studying languages and seemed to understand what so few of us did “He calls it black speech.”“The language of Mordor.” Glorfindel commented as I reached out and touched his shoulder seeing him waver “Celebrimbor will uncover the way to destroy the rings.”“I fail to see that possibility considering it is through him that this has become an issue.” Celeborn hissed as I glanced back at him knowing that there would always be some issues between the two now.“The seeking of knowledge is an instinct of us all. We cannot fault the elves of Eregion for falling prey to such promises. The sought to bring what they long for here.” I replied easily as Celeborn glared at me for a moment.“These rings have proven indestructible to any methods the smiths have attempted.” Celeborn said darkly as I sighed knowing there was truth in that statement.“We must hold the defenses and leave the smiths to gain the knowledge on how to destroy the rings. Our task is not judgement upon the others, it is to ensure that Eregion holds against Sauron.” I replied as I took out my bow “Let us go join the forces.”“Very well, I shall follow you princess.” Celeborn murmured as he took out his sword and I glanced at Glorfindel seeing that he was more tired than normal.“Rest, Glorfindel.” I commanded as he went to protest making me lean over to place a kiss on his cheek “Do not worry. Celeborn will remain at my side. You need to rest and as your princess, I command it of you.”“Very well, I shall take the shift with Lord Celebrimbor this evening.” Glorfindel murmured softly as Celeborn seemed amused at how easily the warrior caved to my demands for him to rest.I watched for a moment as Glorfindel walked off to hopefully follow my command. I didn’t believe that he would truly rest as directed, but he would not attempt to fight. Glorfindel would seek out Celebrimbor and assist in trying to find out how to destroy the rings of power. It was a vital task that the smiths were tasked with. The very fate of the world would depend on them uncovering the secrets that those rings held within them. The one ring was a weapon that would give Sauron power, but none of us had the knowledge on what power he reaped from the ring. I turned to Celeborn and nodded showing that we should join the others in battle.I glanced again in the direction of the young elf that I sent forth with a message requesting aid. I couldn’t have known it at this moment, but the aid would not reach us in time. My father would summon warriors and send them forth under the command of Lieutenant Elrond. Sauron was prepared for the possibility of us requesting aid and would cut them off to the North. The coming months and years would be some of the most difficult that I had faced as I learned that all my training did not fully prepared me for war. There was a darkness in war that I did not wish on any of the elves that served under all of us as we struggled to hold back Sauron. All the while, I knew it was just a matter of time. We couldn’t hold him off forever. Sauron would break through our front lines and overtake us if we didn’t receive reinforcements.
~Year 1697 of the second age
I could practically smell the blood in the air from my fallen comrades as the battle to defend Eregion surged all around the capital. I glanced at Celebrimbor, and I knew from the look on his face that there was little hope left. Eregion would fall to Sauron within moments as there were too few of us that remained to hold the defense. Sauron had prevented aid from Lindon from reaching us and Celeborn had not returned with reinforcements from the woods. Not that we had much hope that the peaceful elves would choose to fight instead of hiding amidst the woods. I did not know of the fate of Elrond or the Lindon soldiers, but the elves within Eregion had suffered heavy losses.Even now, there were the sounds of the fighting in the distance that had been growing closer. Now, there was little that could be done but ensure that the escape routes remained open. The main route was through the mines and the city of our dwarven friends. The elven way that led to the gate that was built in honor of the friendship between the elves and the dwarves. I was surprised to find that Celebrimbor was waiting on this path when I was running along it to return to the battle front after checking to ensure it remained assessable to those that were departing for Lorien. Most of the elves had long since departed with the exception of the warriors and a few of the guild that were researching the rings.“Celebrimbor, I did not expect you here.” I commented in confusion knowing that he was supposed to be securing the guild house where the remaining rings were.“I have found the answer that we seek.” Celebrimbor said as I felt my eyes widen in surprise and happiness.“You know how to destroy the rings?” I questioned him as I needed to hear confirmation that we had a way to disarm Sauron of his greatest weapon.“The ring must be destroyed in the fire that created it.” Celebrimbor directed me seriously as his hand gripped my shoulders with a frantic look in his eyes stopping my approach along Elven way “Sauron’s power will remain in its essence as long as the one ring exists. It must be taken to Mount Doom and destroyed.”“Celebrimbor…” I whispered as he shoved a scroll at me, and I hesitated to take it.“This contains the information we know about the rings and the spell he used to bind them. You must destroy the one ring to destroy any of them.” Celebrimbor said with a serious look as I caught sight of Glorfindel approaching with an injured Celeborn, who looked more than battle weary.“The front has fallen. Ost-in-Edhil can no longer withstand the forces of Sauron.” Glorfindel informed me at my questioning look and Celebrimbor stiffened for a moment before looking back at me.“You must seek safety through the mines. You cannot become a casualty of this battle.” Celebrimbor pleaded as he shoved me towards Glorfindel and took me by surprise at his harsh action.“We will all seek safety through the mines.” I replied seriously as I looked to Glorfindel and Celeborn “Sound the horn so those that remain known to flee to safety. We will defend the path to the mines until everyone has been permitted entry.”“Of course, Princess.” Glorfindel replied as an elleth came to assist Celeborn “Take him and exit through the mines to the safety of Lorien.”“I will remain and seal the way.” Celebrimbor whispered to me as Glorfindel sounded the alarm to show that the capital of Eregion was lost and I knew that I would never forget the heartbreaking sound of defeat.“I know. We can gather a few to defend the pass before sealing it from the other side.” I commented seriously as Celebrimbor gave me the saddest look that I had ever seen on the once happy elf.“I shall remain behind, little light, to seal it from this side to ensure none will enter. You shall go through the mines and ensure your safety while the last of my forces hold the pass.” Celebrimbor explained as each of the words tore through my spirit and seared into my soul with deep pain.“No, I am not leaving you to this fate.” I hissed out in anger as I reached for him quickly as Celebrimbor gave me a sad smile and shook his head.“Thus is the fate that I shall accept. It is the fate I chose the day that I permitted Sauron to create the rings.” Celebrimbor murmured as he placed a kiss on my forehead, and I blinked back tears.“Sauron will torture you, Celebrimbor. There is time to seek safety. I cannot allow this. You don’t need to fight alone. I can save you.” I pleaded with him as I began slightly frantic knowing what Sauron would do to my dear friend.“You cannot sacrifice your fate to protect me from my own.” Celebrimbor whispered to me before looking behind me at Glorfindel “This is my sacrifice to make, you will see her to safety.”“I will ensure it, Lord Celebrimbor.” Glorfindel replied before I was suddenly lifted from the ground and placed over his shoulder.“No!” I shouted in anger as pounded Glorfindel’s back “No! This cannot be permitted! Glorfindel, I can save him!”‘Whatever grace I have that remains may it pass onto you, little light.’ Celebrimbor’s voice said within my mind as I struggled to be released from the strong hold.“Celebrimbor!” I screamed as loud as I could, and tears flowed from my eyes in extreme distress knowing that he would be killed.All around me there were elves fleeing through the pass as Celebrimbor’s most faithful warriors took arms up along the path. I screamed and fought with everything I had to be released from my confinement. I struggled until we entered the doors that once represented beauty and beginnings in my mind. I pleaded with Glorfindel as I shouted for my friend as Celebrimbor looked upon me. I let out a sob as the doors shut with the lasting image of a great Elven warrior making a final sacrifice. I felt something inside me break when the way was sealed as Glorfindel continued with his mission to see me to safety. I sobbed loudly and broke down in defeat knowing that there was nothing that I could do.“I will never forgive you for this.” I sobbed to Glorfindel as he tightened his hold on me.“I know.” Glorfindel responded in a whisper that was like an arrow to my heart.Despite the anger I felt towards him, Glorfindel held me close as the chaos reigned around me. In the coming days Celebrimbor would be tortured to give up the remaining rings in Eregion that the guild protected to Sauron before being killed. In all my years, I would never meet another elf that surpassed the strength that I saw in Celebrimbor. Lord Celebrimbor, for all his faults, had withheld the location of the other rings in order to protect those he held dear to him. It was an action that caused Sauron such rage that he would attempt to use Celebrimbor’s body as a banner in war.After my breakdown, I gathered warriors from an alliance between those that remained with us from Eregion, the Durin Folk, and even some elves from Lorinand that were led by Prince Amroth. We led an assault from Kazam-Dum to assist those that remained pinned down by Sauron’s forces under Lieutenant Elrond. The moment that I saw how Sauron would disgrace my friend’s body, I lost it in a way that I never had before. The ground around me seemed to even respond to my rage as I mindlessly drove through Sauron’s forces to retrieve my friend. The soldiers were thrown into the air by a force that surrounded me outside of my own control. Between my upset and the reinforcements, the Lindon forces finally drove Sauron back. Sauron fled as I retrieved Celebrimbor’s body and removed the arrows.Eregion may have been destroyed, but the memory of it would live within me. I would carry the harshness of Sauron’s actions against Celebrimbor with me as a driving force. It was a moment of defeat that changed my spirit and caused a deep hatred against Sauron that I hadn’t known was possible. Celebrimbor would be laid to rest, and I hoped that his spirit was not so damaged that it would prevent me from seeing him again if I were even permitted to go to undying lands. Celebrimbor would be the first of a great many friends that I would long to see again that I had lost in the battle against Sauron.The location that I laid Celebrimbor’s beaten body down and removed the arrows as gently as possible would become all too common in my life. The land that had seen so much despair and darkness from Sauron’s attacks had come to represent something different to Elrond. Elrond would go on to quickly establish his own settlement called Rivendell on the land that he had fought for his life on. The land remained pure despite all the blood that had soaked the ground and would come to be a great representation of Elven culture. Perhaps it was the purity of the land and the elves that fought there that caused my father would one day bestow Vilya to Lord Elrond for safeguard. Afterall, there would come a time that Lord Elrond would use Vilya to create the unique defense of Rivendell and maintain the purity of the lands.
~Year 1699 of the Second Age
I pushed my horse on the path as quickly as I could knowing that my lack of presence on the frontline would discourage those that were fighting. I knew that Glorfindel would do what was possible to ensure that Sauron’s forces would not break through the frontline. I trusted the skill and ability of the Lindon warriors to fight against the darkness. We could not afford to cave and allow Sauron to succeed in gaining any ground. The issue was that I had seen Sauron’s strategy before, and I knew that he was seeking to weaken us with a patience that could outlast the strongest of armies. If we were to win, then we would need to do something that Sauron would not expect of any of us.Sauron would overrun both Rivendell and Lindon otherwise. I wasn’t surprised that Sauron had attacked both of our settlements in search of the rings. It was clear that he would target us from the beginning. I worried over how long Rivendell could hold out against Sauron’s forces. Lindon had a much longer time to reinforce our borders and a greater number of elves that were fighting within our army. I did not wish for them to fall and Elrond to face the same fate that had befell Celebrimbor. Especially since Lord Elrond was tasked with protecting Vilya in Rivendell and ensuring that Sauron did not retrieve such a powerful weapon. The problem was that Sauron had once again successfully prevented us from sending aid to an ally against him.“The sight of you settles my spirit, daughter.” My father murmured as my horse came to a stop at his side and he assisted me down “What news of the front do you bring?”“Our warriors can withstand Sauron for now.” I assured him as I hugged my father tightly “Glorfindel holds the command while I bring a request that could potentially turn the tide in our favor.”“Have you foreseen something?” My father questioned me as I nodded in confirmation “What have you seen?”“I saw allies from the sea arriving at a moment of need to turn the tide. I do so believe that the course of the war may depend on us summoning our friends on Numenor.” I explained seriously as I recalled the sight of the humans coming from ships to the shore with a sense of purpose.“There is wisdom in such a plan. The Numenoreans from the ports along the coast and within our settlement have been vital against Sauron thus far.” My father commented to me as Cirdan took the reins of my horse to lead her to feed and drink.“I do believe that I must write to Queen Tar-Telperiën to request aid be sent across the sea to assist against Sauron.” I replied honestly as my father nodded in agreement.“I shall leave you to write the Queen in your scroll. It will take time for reinforcements to arrive, I shall take over front to provide you time to rest.” My father directed me as I nodded in agreement.“Very well, father. I do so hope that their aid comes quickly. I fear how long Lord Elrond can withstand Sauron’s forces once more. I do not believe that the Durin folk can be counted upon to provide aid once more.” I murmured as I recalled the troubles that they were facing.“The dwarves are tasked with the protection of three rings. It would be vital to ensure that they are not uncovered, and they have sealed the mines to prevent Sauron from entering despite his attempts.” My father reminded me gently as I sighed knowing that it had been one of my plans to begin with.“I am aware that it was the best course of action against Sauron. I just overlooked that Sauron would prevent us from sending aid and there is now no way to send aid from the Dwarves, Lorien, or Greenwood.” I replied seriously as my father softened slightly and reached out to squeeze my shoulder.“You must trust in the strength of the elves in Rivendell and in Elrond’s ability to defend Rivendell. He has done so before and had prepare defenses in building Rivendell.” My father whispered softly as he placed a kiss on my forehead “You have done much in preparing him to withstand Sauron.”“Let’s hope that it has been enough.” I replied as I recalled how I prepared another friend, and it failed him “Be safe, father.”“I shall not fall to Sauron.” My father murmured with a smirk without any hesitation.I smiled sadly at my father before he departed to finish dressing in his armor to take over the front with new reinforcements to allow others to rest as well. I knew that my father was seen as one of the most skilled and talented warriors. There was little cause to worry about his wellbeing in battle, but I had never through that Celebrimbor’s skill would fail him as well. I shook my head as I went to get the pen of Manwe from my quarters to write to Queen Tar-Telperiën to inform her of the need for reinforcements. Our ability to prevent Sauron from regaining the other rings would depend on the Numenoreans coming to our aid quickly.
~Year 1701 of the Second age
The Numenoreans proved very vital in our victory against Sauron in ways that even I could not have predicted. The ruling queen and her nephew, Minastir, sent aid across the sea as quickly as possible to aid us in the war. Admiral Ciryatur arrived just in time to assist our forces in holding our line at the river Luhn, which we were dangerously close to retreating from at the time. Minastir led the forces alongside us to drive Sauron from Eriador all together within a year. The Numenorean had secretly come to three different ports, and they were able to successfully deploy soldiers in a way that released Lindon from our pinned down positions.The Numenoreans under the command of Minastir and Ciryatur were able to help in pushing Sauron’s forces from the Grey Havens. From there, our joined forces were able to successfully defeat Sauron upon his retreat at Sarn Ford and Tharbad. Just as Sauron joined up with more forces that could have overrun our attack from the north, the Numenoreans that docked in Gwathlo attacked from the south. The action threw Sauron off and allowed us the victory in the battle of Gwathlo. Sauron managed to escape the slaughter of his forces in that battle and fled from Eregion. The little force that remained were easily defeated in Calenardhon, but Sauron survived to escape back to Mordor.With the knowledge that Sauron had abandoned the command of his army, we turned our army North towards Rivendell to free Elrond. It took a year from the landing of the Numenoreans to completely clear Eriador from Sauron’s grasp and torment. Despite all that we had faced and the heavy losses that we had suffered, Sauron did not defeat the elves. I knew that it was largely due to the close alliances between the elves with the dwarves and the Numenoreans. I also knew that this could not be the last that I would see of Sauron. Sauron still had his ultimate weapon, the One Ring, and had managed to get his hands on thirteen rings at his victory over Eregion.Even now, I was disheartened to have to say goodbye to those that spent the last year fighting at my side. I feared to imagine what would have become of us if they hadn’t provided us with their skill. My father was a renowned warrior, and I became known to be one as well throughout the course of the war against Sauron, but our kingdom could not have withstood much longer. It was clear that I wasn’t the only one that wished that they could remain here longer. Minastir appeared to have a fascination with our culture and had lingered longer than his aunt had been comfortable with. I was glad to get to know the future King of Numenor. I was glad to consider him my friend and ally.“We were most fortunate to have your aid, Admiral Ciryatur.” I commented honestly to Admiral Ciryatur, and he smiled gently as the ships and soldiers moved around us.“It was truly a pleasure to be able to fight next to your side, Princess Siladhiel.”  Admiral Ciryatur said with a slight bow of respect, and I felt my lips twitch into a smile.“I dare say that you have long since proven that we stand on equal ground. You shall never be expected to bow to any in our kingdom, Admiral. We have stood shoulder to shoulder in a battle paid for in blood. We shall always stand shoulder to shoulder.” I directed him softly as I watched Ciryatur’s eyes widen for a single moment in surprise.“You provide me with a great honor, Princess. I am blessed to be shown such respect.” Ciryatur commented with a bright smile, and I returned it as my father and Minastir approached us.“I wish you safe travels by sea, Admiral.” I murmured gently as he nodded and stepped back to allow Minastir to greet me as well as finish his preparation for travel.“My people have always considered you to be our allies, Princess. It was a great honor to be able to fight at your side against Sauron.” Minastir replied with a gentle smile as I reached forward to place a hand on his shoulder and squeezed it softly.“I cannot express enough gratitude for your assistance, Minastir. I dare not think what would have become of us without your aid.” I murmured as Minastir, and my father smiled at each other “We have faced a great darkness at each other’s sides.”“I do not fear for the healing of your lands or your people, despite the losses you have suffered.” Minastir commented as I frowned slightly knowing that it would be an arduous process “I have been blessed to witness the light of Lindon with my own eyes and I know that as long as you remain that your people shall heal from what they have seen.”“Indeed, there are no truer words spoken.” My father said with a chuckle as Minastir smirked at him “I with your safe tidings on the return to your kingdom, Minastir.”“We rarely have to truly fear the sea.” Minastir commented as he looked wistfully towards the west, and I smiled sadly at the longing I saw in his eyes.“Let us hope to meet again on a more joyous occasion, Minastir.” I murmured to him hoping to draw him from his desire to sail beyond the boundaries set by the Valar.“Indeed, I do so have that you shall grace us with your presence once more when things have settled once more.” Minastir said with a sad smile, and I nodded quickly having a deep desire to do so “May our alliance continue to stand strong, Princess.”“May we never forget the friendship formed between us all, Minastir.” I replied as my father nodded in agreement and with a final nod Minastir stepped away to join the Numenoreans that would be returning to Numenor.“You appear worried, little light.” My father whispered as I watched the ships begin to sail from the Grey Havens.“I dare say that I have a sense of foreboding. I fear that the times of darkness of truly just beginning for our dear friends.” I murmured in response on my father placed a hand on my shoulder and squeezed gently.“The Numenoreans are strong, little light. This war has proven it.” My father commented as I nodded in agreement “Come, we must meet with Lord Cirdan.”I sighed heavily as I watched the Numenoreans sailing away for a few more seconds before turning to follow my father. I could see that the elves of Lindon were quickly working on moving on from the war effort. I could sense the need to heal in the air as the elves were singing of victory and life once more. I hadn’t ever seen war before this one, but I was born at the beginning of an age in a time of healing. I wanted to be part of their healing and to heal my spirit, but something weighed on my mind heavily. Sauron may have been defeated but he was still out there. I knew that it was a matter of time before he would regain power and target the lands again.Sauron would now know of the alliance with the Numenoreans. They had proven to be worthy warriors and were our hidden weapon that led to his defeat. I was not as naïve as I once had been to believe that Sauron wouldn’t hold it against them. Sauron would come after them just as hard as he had come at Celebrimbor. Celebrimbor had managed to outmaneuver Sauron with the creation of the three most powerful rings and Sauron didn’t stop until his death. I couldn’t help but worry about what Sauron would plan for my dear friends. I knew that he had to be deeply angered over their denial to help him just to assist us in his defeat. It seemed with the lack of visions that only time would tell of what Sauron would become in the coming years.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Chapter

~Siladhiel Point of View~

~Year 2029 of the Second Age
I stood on the balcony that connected to my room that provided the beautiful scenery of our capital city and the sea that led to the undying lands. I would typically find as much comfort and peace from the sight as many of those within the palace. In this moment, the sea was anything but comforting. The sea was a reminder of the distance between myself and those that I had felt so close to. The sea was a constant reminder of forced separation from those that I held dear to me. In this moment, the sea seemed even darker. The sea was warning me from pursuing my desire to travel across it to Numenor to find a resolution at any cost.My hand tightened on the pen of Manwe knowing that this instrument could no longer serve as a method of maintaining friendships. My soul ached at the knowledge that my dear friend’s descendants would turn away from us in such a way. I could not speak with Tar-Atanamir. I could not attempt to dissuade him from his hostility towards the Valar. My heart longed to soothe and bring about peace once more between our people. I did not wish to lose the thousands of years of friendship between the elves and the Numenoreans. I knew that unless something intervened then their actions would lead them down a path of darkness that I could not follow.I sighed heavily as I closed my eyes in pain. I took a shaky breath at the flashes of a future that had yet to be written into history. I shivered at the pieces that had yet to fully form that spoke of a destruction that I did not wish to see become true. I knew them to be the possibilities of the future coming into reality due to the choices that Tar-Atanamir was making. It felt like such little time has passed since the Numenoreans stood at our side in our war against Sauron. It felt like there was so little time to change the course that their leader had set them on. I did not wish to see the end of our alliance.“What is weighing on your mind, little light?” My father questioned as his hand was laid upon my shoulder in a silent offer of comfort.“There are dark times still ahead of us and I fear what would become of us if we were to lose our allies.” I explained to my father as Gil-Galad frowned slightly at my statement.“Do not fear, little light. There are times of darkness that we must all face. We have many numenoreans that still support and cherish the alliance with our kind.” My father reassured me as I nodded feeling little relief from the truth.“Be that as it may, there is still a deep resentment in their leaders. We no longer have the means to know their minds and that is something that I have little hope of correcting.” I said softly as I glanced back at the ocean knowing there was much that even our remaining allies could not know.“The Elendili remain true to our alliance. I have not lost faith in them, and neither should you, little light. Long have we remained a bridge between the elves and the numenoreans. We will remain thus far into the future.” My father replied as his hand squeezed my shoulder and I took a shaky breath thinking of the beginning of division.“I know that the Faithful remain our friends and have been receiving the elves in secret. I fear Tar-Atanamir’s reaction to such actions from our allies.” I murmured to my father before letting out a heavy sign “And I fear that this is just the beginning of the separation of their people. The elves have weathered such things in the past and that rift remains wide between us all.”“And yet, you fail to see how your influence has ensured that there is a connection that remains between us all. You cannot prevent all dark times and struggles from occurring, Little light. That is not even within your ability.” My father whispered as he placed a gentle kiss on my forehead “Come, little light. I do believe that it has been far too long since we have ridden together.”“Indeed, it has been too long since we have raced.” I commented feeling a little lighter at the prospect of spending valuable time with my father.“Perhaps, this time you shall let your father win.” My father replied with a raised eyebrow causing me to chuckle in amusement.“Ah, but that would be cheating.” I said with a smirk causing my father to shake his head in amusement and I leaned over to kiss his cheek “I shall prepare our horses for our travels.”“Very well, I shall inform Lord Cirdan that we will both be traveling our borders for a few days and will be unavailable for council.” My father directed me as I nodded and twirled away from him “Perhaps, you shall let Lord Glorfindel know of your department.”I paused for a moment at the statement with a slight deflating to my moon again. I had not truly forgiven Glorfindel for his actions. I felt that he had taken my choice away from me and I had lost a dear friend because of it. I was slowly coming to accept that he was doing what was directed of him as the last wish of Celebrimbor. I knew that in time that I would find it in myself to look upon Glorfindel and no longer see that moment that broke a piece of my spirit unlike any other event in my long life. I shook my head slightly and continued on my way to prepare the horses. My father may believe that it was time to forgive Glorfindel, but my sprit was not ready to do so. Not when I was on the verge of losing another important alliance that I had fought to maintain my entire life.
~Year 2221 of the Second Age
The fact that I could sense him near drew me from my meditative state and effectively derailed my attempts to rest my mind. I opened my eyes and stared into the mystical woods that surrounded Rivendell. I really should have expected that he would seek me out when the murmurs of my stop in Elrond’s dwelling spread. It wasn’t long before Glorfindel appeared in the tree line just as radiated as the first time that I saw him on the docks in Grey Havens. I motioned for him to approach when he paused with a questioning look.“I was surprised to hear of your travels here, Princess.” Glorfindel commented as he took a seat at my side with a gentle aura and calming demeanor that always put me at ease.“You know that I always check on him when I return.” I replied as Glorfindel gave a stern nod in confirmation “I am surprised to find you here.”“You father sent me forward to speak with Elrond to gather council in your absence.” Glorfindel explained as I stiffened slightly knowing that I had been gone for just a few short months.“Has something occurred in my time away?” I questioned him quickly as I ran through all the possibilities.“It seems that there has been confirmation of the split in Númenor.” Glorfindel explained as I drew in a harsh breath at that confirmation “A letter has reached your father stating that there are now two fractions, the King’s Men and the Faithful.”“It seems that it is starting.” I whispered while closing my eyes in pain recalling the painful realizations that I was forced to accept.“What have you seen?” Glorfindel questioned me as I glanced away from his causing him to use his hand to place in on my face and tilt my head up to look at him “What worries you so, Princess?”“There will be but a small chance that the Numenoreans will be granted to prevent the destruction of their nation.” I explained as Glorfindel softened and ran his fingers down my neck.“Let us hope that the Faithful have the ability to ensure that our long-time allies do not fall.” Glorfindel whispered after a moment as I smiled sadly at him knowing that he was just saying so for my own benefit.“You do not have to cater to my worries, Glorfindel. I know that you share the same weariness as Elrond when it comes to the numenoreans.” I murmured in return as Glorfindel gave me a sad smile.“Despite the weariness I feel, I shall never wish for anything to occur that would cause you pain.” Glorfindel replied as his true self reached out to embrace mine in comfort.“I know.” I said softly knowing that despite everything that Glorfindel did seek to ensure my happiness above all other things.“And what of your travels, Princess? Have you discovered anything of importance?” Glorfindel questioned me as I huffed slightly and shook my head.“No, it seems that Sauron has taken to hiding in the shadows rather effectively. None have been made aware of what he shall attempt to do next.” I replied with slight anger that I was no closer to finding him after all these years.“And of the rings?” Glorfindel asked me as his fingers carted through my hair causing me to relax more under his careful movements.“I can only confirm that he provided them to nine mortals in the war. My queries have shown that they were Kings of kingdoms to the far East and South. I assume that Sauron used the Rings to bribe them and then maintain control over them. The blue wizards confirmed that their kingdoms have since been abandoned and all that remains is ghost stories. There are no leads left to follow to retrieve those rings.” I offered it to him as I sighed heavily recalling how discouraging that information was when I heard it.“Am I to assume that you will still send out spies to check these kingdoms?” Glorfindel queried as I titled my head back when he stops moving his fingers “It seems that you are in need of relaxation. You body shows many signs of distress, Princess.”“I may have been pushing to hard during my travels. I shall take time to relax now that I find myself within the borders of Eriador once more.” I confirmed honestly as Glorfindel nodded with a smirk.“If you have need of me, then I shall endeavor to ensure you relax in mind and body.” Glorfindel commented making me raise my eyebrow at his brazen statement “I simply meant to offer to continue running my hand through your hair and even sing to you.”“I do adore your songs.” I replied with a fond smile as Glorfindel relaxed once more “I do believe that I shall take you up on the relaxing evening, but it shall wait until I return to Lindon and report to my father.”“Very well, I shall follow your lead and await your requests of me.” Glorfindel murmured with a softness in his eyes that spoke that he wanted more than I was ready to provide due to recent hurts “And of the other three rings?”“Sauron apparently provided them to dwarves.” I explained as Glorfindel stiffened and looked at me in surprise “They were not provided to any of the Durin Folk or those connected to them within these lands.”“You confirmed this?” Glorfindel questioned me with a serious expression, and I nodded in confirmation.“Yes, the blue wizards were able to confirm who received the rings. There are two leaders of the Broadbeams and the Firebeards that have received rings that settled into Ered Luthui near Mordor. There are two additional dwarf leaders to the east of there that received rings, the leaders of the Ironfists and Stonefoots.” I said as I reached out to touch Glorfindel’s face making his true self brighten considerably at the simple action “Do not fear. They have shown the same resilience to handling the rings as Durin’s folk have here.”“Very well, I shall trust your judgement.” Glorfindel whispered before reaching out to pull me close allowing his true self to embrace me fully “I do believe that we have spoken enough this evening and that it is my task to ensure that you are at ease to begin traveling to Grey Havens on the morrow.”I smiled in amusement for a moment before settling against his chest. It had taken quite some time for me to forgive Glorfindel enough to even look upon him without anger and resentment. Glorfindel was an elf that did not give in easily and fought his way back onto my good side. As he began to sing softly in my ear, I was thankful that this elf was so stubborn. My heart would never be truly eased of the pain of losing Celebrimbor, but I found myself not fully holding it against Glorfindel. Glorfindel was a presence that I needed in my life, as I could not picture an eternity without him at my side. Even now, my mind allowed the worries to fade and just relish in the comfort that this blessed elf offered me with his gentle hands and soft voice.
~Year 2251 of the Second Age
I came to a stop on top of the hill and scanned the valley before me with keen eyes. I flinched when I felt Glorfindel’s hand reach out. I glanced down to see him touching the scratch that was made by the weapon of one of the riders. I was fortunate that was the only injury that the battle had caused. Glorfindel softened his touch as he reached into his bag to retrieve a piece of fabric to clean the cut. I turned my eyes back to the horizon trying to see if any of them managed to get before us. I couldn’t sense them anymore, but I didn’t want to risk either of our safety. There was much that was unknown about this new creature that appeared, but the rumors were true. There was a new darkness roaming the lands beyond Eriador.“It should not scar.” Glorfindel murmured as I tilted my head feeling his fingers linger on my arm “I do not believe that my heart ever felt as still as when I saw that blade near you, Siladhiel.”“It seems that I owe much to my faithful steed.” I replied as I ran my fingers through my horse’s mane to settle her more “I shall heal without issue, Glorfindel.”“Allow me to ensure it.” Glorfindel whispered as he continued checking over the wound “This foe and their weapon is unknown to us. I care not to chance your wellbeing from such a wound.” “Very well, I shall not fight you on this.” I said as I continued to keep a watchful eye out “I do not believe we are being pursued any longer. They have not followed us onto these lands.”“Eriador is the purest of these lands. There darkness would not be aided here.” Glorfindel commented as he hopped off his horse before smiling up at me to grab me down as well “We shall rest while we can.”“We should not linger here long. We must ensure that my father is aware of this threat.” I replied as Glorfindel narrowed his eyes on the wound.“I do believe that your father would prefer that I ensure this injury is taken care of over ensuring our speedy arrival in Grey Havens.” Glorfindel said as he placed a hand on my face and tilted my head up to look at him “Allow me this, Siladhiel.”“I already ensured that I will not fight you. I just wished to point out that you should do so quickly.” I explained as Glorfindel softened and led me to a rock to sit.“I do believe that a piece of the blade broke within the cut.” Glorfindel commented as he raised my arm to look at the wound “A small piece that will need to be removed.”“You are one of the most suited in healing. I trust you to ensure that this wound does not become the cause of problems.” I whispered to ease his doubt and worry as Glorfindel grabbed his bag once more.“There appears to be some sort of poison in the wound.” Glorfindel explained a moment later with a frown as he pulled free the dark metal.“The black around the wound?” I queried as I flared my true light to get a sense of the poison “It is dark in nature.”“Athelas should cure it and I will heal the wound.” Glorfindel murmured with his focus completely on the wound making me smile in amusement.“It seems as if the blade of the riders is dangerous. A stab wound would cause great injury, and many would be ill prepared to cure it in time if a small wound such as this could allow this type of spread this quickly.” I said as I furrowed my brow in thought as Glorfindel’s hands glowed with his abilities after appearing the paste made from Athelas.“A blade does not chip so easily unless it was designed to do so.” Glorfindel confirmed as he pulled away watching the black veins fade “They were not Sauron.”“No, the rumors did not lead us to Sauron.” I replied as I felt him take a deep breath when he hugged me “The darkness that they carry could only be from his influence.”“You believe these creatures to be makings of Sauron?” Glorfindel questioned as he pulled back enough to look down at me.“I believe that there are Nine dark riders and that cannot be ignored.” I pointed out as I shivered slightly recalling my interaction with them.“The Nine Mortals.” Glorfindel murmured as I nodded while reaching forward to run my fingers along his jawline.“It makes sense that the Nine Mortal Kings that held those rings would be corrupted.” I said before taking a deep breath “I caught the sight of a ring on each of their hands.”“I saw that as well.” Glorfindel replied with a sharp nod as he tightened his arms on me “Mortals were always so easily corrupted.”“I assume that the power of these rings when held by those without power of their own that the rings bind them to Sauron in spirit. Sauron most likely promises those kings eternal life and they assumed that they would live in peace instead of becoming wraiths trapped in the service to the Dark Lord.” I explained with a sad frown as Glorfindel leaned forward to kiss my brow.“It is a wise assumption to make.” Glorfindel said before looking back in the direction we ran from “They shall not be killed by any mortal man.”“No, I think not.” I confirmed as I stepped away from him and glanced down at the wound “The only weakness we know is that they dislike our light.”“It was quick thinking on your part to release your true self.” Glorfindel murmured with a proud smirk as he played with the strands of my hair “Our journey proved useful despite these darkness being free to roam those lands. We bring back a wealth of information to the elves and our allies to ensure they are prepared if they encounter them in the future.”“Indeed.” I replied before glancing at my horse when she shifted in unease once more “We should continue on. I care not to chance another run in with the dark riders so soon.”“Ringwraiths.” Glorfindel muttered with a nod as I tilted my head at the name.“The Nazgul.” I replied knowing that those names suited these creatures “I shall let the blue wizards now this information so they may research the way that one can be killed.”Glorfindel nodded as he assisted me onto my horse despite me being more than capable of doing so on my own. I knew better than to argue with him when anything happened to me. Glorfindel took his task to be my protection very seriously and he would see the small wound as a failure to do so. The stubborn elf wouldn’t settle until he was more than sure that I was unharmed from the interaction with the dark riders. Even with the small wound, I was glad to learn that their blades carry poison in order to warn others to be even more cautious against allowing themselves to become cut. Glorfindel wouldn’t see it that way and I almost felt sorry for the next time a Ringwraith was within fighting distance of him. Glorfindel would make it a personal mission of his to ensure that they would never be able to harm me again.
~2280 of the Second Age
By the time that my spies that watched the lands near Mordor reported the founding of Umbar, I already knew that there was something foreboding that had happened. I had already received the visions from the weaving future that spoke of an occurrence that was setting the path for the Numenoreans. I could not control the information that was revealed to me, but learning of Umbar only deepened my concerns. I wished that I had the ability to dissuade them from creating a dwelling so close to Mordor and where Sauron frequented. Umbar was founded by the King’s Men and their fraction were against all things to do with the elves.“Sauron will continue to corrupt the Numenoreans and bring them to his side.” Elrond warned my father who frowned as he read through the same report that I just read “We cannot allow Sauron to gain an alliance with them.”“Siladhiel, your visions have shown this?” My father questioned me as I looked up at my father once more.“The visions show me fragments of a future that is not set in stone. I cannot confirm that Sauron will bring the King’s Men to his side and that they will aid it.” I explained honestly as Cirdan frowned once more.“You cannot guarantee that they will remain our allies as well.” Cirdan pointed out as I swallowed slightly and nodded in confirmation “There is little faith to be had in our alliance with the Numenoreans when so many have turned from our teachings.”“That doesn’t mean that we can do anything to prevent what will occur from this settlement.” I replied seriously as my father raised his eyebrow at me.“You do not believe that we should interfere as Lord Elrond and Cirdan believe we shall?” My father questioned me as I could see that this was upsetting him as much as it was upsetting me.“I believe that we must continue to remain out of this conflict. If we attempt such now, this fraction will simply react against our wishes.” I offered to my father honestly as Glorfindel nodded in agreement with my thoughts.“You believe that if we were to interfere now that we would simply push them to aid Sauron instead of being against him.” Glorfindel said as I nodded in confirmation and glanced at my father.“The best course of action is to do nothing. The path of the Numenoreans is their own and I fear that even us attempting to offer guidance would push them to fully break the alliance with us.” I replied as Cirdan and Elrond just frowned sharply at the notion.“The Numenoreans are a prideful folk. If Sauron was to approach them then it is likely that they would fight him. They proved more than capable of fighting him in the past. Let us watch and wish that they will prove to still have the ability to withstand his requests to ally with him.” My father said to Elrond and Cirdan who didn’t look so happy.“I shall see if the Faithful are able to instill someone with Umbar to keep us informed of the happenings there.” I offered to both of them as they relaxed slightly “The lands near Mordor are darkening as Sauron regains his power. Perhaps having the Numenoreans on the borders will prevent him from gaining even more power.”“It is doubtful that their fraction would prove useful, but one can hope that Sauron would turn his sights upon them and remain away from the lands where we dwell.” Elrond commented as I raised my eyebrow at his statement “Sauron would have a dislike for the Numenoreans due to their assistance in our war against him.”“It may prove useful in the future if Sauron reveals himself so we may find and retrieve the rings. Mordor is much to secure for our people to enter.” My father murmured before setting down the reports “I do believe that there is nothing left to discuss at this time.”“Very well, father.” I said as I leaned over to kiss his cheek “If you have need of me, I shall be training with Glorfindel in my garden.”“Typical.” My father muttered with a chuckle as I smiled twirling to Glorfindel who looked amused.Glorfindel took my hand and looped it with his arm to lead me from the room. I knew that training was just the thing that I needed after having to make that tough decision. I was slowly learning that I couldn’t save everyone, but it was hard to leave people to the fate that they weaved for themselves. Especially a people that I once regarded as highly as I did my own people. I knew that Glorfindel might not understand my own sorrow, but he embraced me with his true self to ease my spirit. If all else failed, I could always trust Glorfindel to be there.
~Year 2350 of the Second Age
I came to a stop on my horse as the vast lands of Eriador with my father at my side. There was nothing like viewing the lands from on top of Ered Luin. The sight of the lands always seemed so peaceful and outside of the constant struggle against darkness. These were the lands that I fought so hard to keep pure on a daily basis. Something that I knew that couldn’t be achieved without the sacred blessing that was left behind in Lindon as a gift to me. The world was constantly changing around us, but Lindon would remain unreachable to darkness.It was times like this that I appreciated it even more. I knew that in my travels that lands outside of Lindon and Eriador were not as pure. They couldn’t withstand the magnitude of darkness that swept through the lands beyond our borders. Even the newly settled lands named Pelargir wouldn’t be free from corruption despite being founded by the fraction of the Faithful. The other elven kingdoms and allied kingdoms weren’t granted the blessing that Lindon was built around. I smiled when I felt the slight droplets of rain fall from the sky. The rain always brought me a sense of ease even with the hint of sorrow.“Do you still think of her often?” I questioned my father as I drew back my light as I turned my sight in the direction were I knew the ocean lay as a physical reminder of the separation between my father and mother.“There is never a moment where your mother is not on my mind and within my heart.” My father murmured with a sad smile looking up at the sky as the rain hit his face, and I leaned over to squeeze his hand.“You have spent quite a long time away from my mother and your wife.” I whispered with a heavily heart knowing that separation could not be easy on him “I would not fault you if you decided to sail to her.”“I know that your mother waits for me to be reunited with her in the undying lands.” My father said with as he reached out to sooth my hair from blowing in the harsh wind “She would not forgive me if I should leave you to face your destiny alone.”“I am no longer an elfling.” I pointed out softly as I stared at the king that I had spent my whole life looking up to “You have prepared me for what I will face. I cannot fault you for wishes to be reunited with your other half.”“You shall always be an elfling in my eyes, no matter the centuries that have passed since I first held you in my arms.” My father replied with a fondness as he moved his hand to my shoulder “I vowed to see you through your trails as long as I am able. I shall not abandon my vow to you.”“Do you truly think that I will ever manage to destroy him? Sauron survived through even the Valar and the great war before my birth.” I whispered to my father knowing that I doubted that there would ever be a time were Sauron was not causing issues.“I believe that nothing shall outlast your ability to shine.” My father said with a chuckle as I smiled at his true self reaching out to mine “You and I will rejoin your mother when Sauron has been banished from these lands.”“You know that it may very well take thousands of years to truly defeat him. The path that I have seen is not a short one.” I murmured as I glanced at the vast lands against and felt the cool breeze of the air.“The time it takes matters not to me. I will have an eternity in peace with your mother when the task is complete.” My father commented with a serious look “She watches over us always, little light. Never forgot that she watches us and is guiding us through the trails that Eru Illuvatar sets in your path.”“I still feel her. I feel her even now.” I said with a smile recalling how clearly that I could sense her in the rain “She is never far, but she is never quite as close as you have always been.”“You mother would be at your side as I am if she was granted the option.” My father assured me with a sad smile as he placed a hand on my cheek “Your mother did not wish to leave you to this fate.”“I know that she didn’t.” I murmured as I took a shaky breath feeling a surge of emotion “I doubt that even if she was here that she would mean as much to me as you do, father. I have looked up to you my entire life. I know no other greater than you as a leader, a warrior, and a father.”“You honor me, little light.” My father whispered as he placed a kiss on my forehead “I hope you know that there is none that I am prouder of than you. There is nothing that I have achieved greater than raising such an amazing elleth that will one day lead the kingdom that we built together. Being your father has been the greatest gift that Eru Illuvatar could have gifted me.”I smiled at his compliment but could not find the words to respond. I simply leaned into his side as we looked out onto our lands. I knew that my father would never truly understand how much his guidance had met to me all these years. My father has dealt with centuries of separation from my mother and never once wavered in his devotion to me. King Gil-Galad was seen by all as the greatest warrior of these lands, but to me he was so much more. Gil-Galad was the father that never abandoned me and always remained steadfast at my side. He was the greatest hero that I had ever known and being like him was every ambition that I had. Despite the destiny that awaits me, all I truly wished for was to make my father proud to call me his daughter and to never let him down.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Chapter

~Siladhiel Point of View~

~Year 2899 of the Second Age
I grinded my teeth together as my arms strained to hold off the sword with my own. I narrowed my eyes on Glorfindel when I noticed that he was actually smirking at me. Before I even had the time to be angry over it, I was being twirled and pulled against his chest. I suck in breath of surprise as his sword’s tip moved to my throat. I stiffened at the action, and I knew that this was the point that I should surrender. I placed my hand over his and I could feel his hand tighten on his weapon at my touch before I shoved away the point that was pressed against me. I twirled quickly and punched him squarely in the chest as Glorfindel actually chuckled in clear amusement.“You have never been one to surrender.” Glorfindel commented as he twirled his sword in his hand looking like every bit of the legendary warrior that I knew him to be.“I wasn’t taught to surrender.” I replied as I steadied my blade once more “I for one will never surrender if I may instead die in battle.”“Ah, but there are some circumstances where surrender is the better option.” Glorfindel said as I swung my sword at him as his own clash with mine.“I am unaware of any circumstance where surrender is acceptable.” I muttered as I twisted my body to block him again knowing that he was rather sneaky when allowed.“Come now, my princess of light.” Glorfindel said with a chuckle as I found myself tackled to the ground “You would not even yield to me.”“Glorfindel.” I hissed as I struggled against him knowing that he had pinned me rather securely to the ground.“Do you surrender to me, princess?” Glorfindel queried as he stared down at me with a press of his arm against my throat.“Never.” I practically growled as I pressed the tip of my dagger against his side making him stiffen “I would think taking out you along with me would be more worthy a death.”“Very well.” Glorfindel murmured before looking at me with gentle eyes “Now, will you speak of the reason that you had summon me to train in place of the walk in the gardens?”“I do not wish to speak of it.” I muttered as I glanced away from him before Glorfindel’s fingers found my chin and tilted my face to focus on him once more.“If it upsets you so then you must speak of it, little light.” Glorfindel whispered as his fingers ran down my cheek and I swallowed at the realization of our position.“Hmmm.” I hummed as I shoved at his shoulder to get him to move off of me because it was most unbecoming to be found in such a position and my father would surely kill Glorfindel.“Forgive me.” Glorfindel said as he quickly stood and offered me a hand to assist in pulling me from the ground.“There is nothing that requires forgiveness.” I assured him with a gently smile as I squeezed his hand and made no move to release it from my hold.“Very well.” Glorfindel murmured as he stared at my hand for a moment before smiling at me “Perhaps you feel up to a walk in the gardens.”“Indeed, that sounds like a wonderful way to spend the remainder of the afternoon.” I commented feeling much more settled than I had when I received the letter from one of the ‘Faithful’.“I believe that the fruit trees have began to bloom.” Glorfindel informed me causing me to brighten knowing that meant that the winter was finally over, and the new season was upon us “I suppose that will mean the continuing of your adventures throughout the lands.”“I did plan on traveling to visit the other elven realms and ensure their wellbeing. I have not visited in quite some time.” I explained to him before pausing when I saw the way that he seemed to sadden at that information “Perhaps, you would feel up to traveling with me. I do not believe that you have visited Thranduil at all since you have returned to these lands.”“I would be honored to travel with you once more.” Glorfindel agreed immediately, making me smile in slight amusement at the ease at which he was willing to follow me.“I shall inform father that I will prepare for traveling in the coming days and that you will be coming along if he can spare you from your duties.” I replied as Glorfindel paused to reach to a branch and pull a plum down for me.“For you, my princess.” Glorfindel directed as I immediately accepted it and bit into it causing me to immediately smile at the burst of sweetness “I shall inform the maids to retrieve some and pack them for our travels.”“You have my thanks, Glorfindel, for seeing to my needs.” I murmured feeling a warmth in my chest at how much care he shown me over such simple things.“I shall always see to your needs, Siladhiel.” Glorfindel whispered as his hand tightened for a moment on mine “Although, there is something that occurred to upset you that you have not informed me of.”“Ar-Adunakhor.” I said as Glorfindel stiffened at the mention of the newest Numenor King “Or rather, Adunaic.”“He turned away from the choice of an elvish name?” Glorfindel questioned in surprise, and I sighed before biting into the plum again “He means to honor the Numenorean culture and spur our own culture.”“It appears to be that way and he sets the Numenoreans down a path of destruction.” I said as Glorfindel reached forward to tilt my head up when I looked to the ground again.“You have seen this?” Glorfindel queried as I sighed heavily knowing that it may have been easier if it was that clear to see.“I have not seen the Numenoreans as clearly as I once have.” I offered as I looked towards the waters in the distance “I have been informed that Adunaic has went as far to ban the use of our languages in his presence.”“Princess.” Glorfindel murmured as he pulled me close and hugged me gently “You cannot allow this to weigh on your heart. Their actions are theirs alone, Siladhiel.”“I simply wish that I could do something that would encourage our alliance to remain intact.” I whispered as I felt deeply saddened once more and Glorfindel wisely ran his fingers through my hair.“I am well aware that you always wish to resolve all the problems that occur from the kindness of your heart.” Glorfindel said softly as he surprised me by placing a kiss to the crown of my head “Even you, the Princess of Light cannot stop darkness from occurring when others refuse your wisdom.”“I do not know what I would do without your steady presence to calm my spirit and ease my burdens.” I whispered honestly as Glorfindel tightened his arms on me.“I shall endeavor to ensure that I remain at your side as long as you wish for it.” Glorfindel murmured as I smiled against his chest at him acknowledging it out loud.Glorfindel stood there for several moments just sheltering me in my pain. I knew that we could not remain like this for long as it seemed that my father was rather against the changes that were occurring between Glorfindel and I. I had to admit that there was a deep regard that I held for Glorfindel. It was something that seemed to shift in recent years and left me wondering if Glorfindel had felt deeper for me than I had realized. I couldn’t help but wonder if he had always looked at me with such fondness or if he had spoken of me with such admiration. I was not quite ready to name the regard that I held for Glorfindel or risk the companionship that we shared after the years I spent with little interaction with him. I was content in this moment as we simply stood, and he sheltered me from the darkness of the world around me.
~Year 3110 of the Second Age
I couldn’t help but giggle lightly as I ran through the forests that surrounded Rivendell knowing that Glorfindel was a short distance behind me. I felt almost as much as ease in Lord Elrond’s settlement as I did in Lindon and Grey Havens. It was all too easy to sneak from the joyous songs occurring in the main hall to give Glorfindel a chase to locate me. I could hear him chuckling when he no doubt stumbled across where I had toed off my shoes to feel the ground beneath my bare feet. I knew that if he was close enough that would clearly see me in my blue gown as the skirt of the silken dress swished about as I ran.“Did you truly believe that you could escape me, princess?” Glorfindel queried with a bright smile as his arms wrapped around me to catch me.“Perhaps, I simply wished to be away from your attempts at singing.” I commented before laughing when he twirled me around to face him.“I am well aware that you enjoy the sound of my voice, princess.” Glorfindel taunted as I shook my head in amusement.“I simply did not wish to dishearten you by telling you that you could not sing.” I replied as Glorfindel chuckled lowly before tightening his arms on me.“Then I shall never sing again.” Glorfindel murmured as I immediately pouted at the thought of him never singing again “Unless you wish to correct your statements.”“You know that I love when you sing for me.” I whispered as I looked up at him and Glorfindel immediately softened when I smiled at him.Glorfindel said as he ran his fingers down my cheek “I do believe that you said that you would sing for us this evening and instead took to the woods.” “I am well aware, and I shall sing anytime that you wish for me to do so.”“I believe that I vowed to sing for you.” I replied before I could stop myself and Glorfindel smirked in delight.“Then I shall have you sing for me alone.” Glorfindel commented looking entirely too amused as he pulled away looking towards the tree nearest to us “Come, I shall fix your braiding. It has become untamed since I had twisted them earlier.”“Many have commented on the crown of braids that you twisted my hair into.” I murmured as I allowed him to shift me to sit before him.“I simply braided your hair. It is your beauty that is complimented so readily by all that set their eyes upon you.” Glorfindel whispered as he began to twist the elaborate braids back into my hair that he placed upon my head earlier “You seem to have taken to the libations that were offered.”“I have rather enjoyed the wine that Elrond offered me.” I murmured as I tilted my head to smile at Glorfindel who looked at me in amusement.“It lightens my heart to see you so at ease here. I find your childish antics rather enjoyable as well.” Glorfindel said with a twitch of a smirk on his lips as I huffed slightly at his dig “I cannot complain, princess. I have always been fond of chasing after you.”“You have become rather good at finding me.” I replied with a laugh knowing that Glorfindel was one of the few that were always able to find me even when I didn’t wish to be found.“Sing for me.” Glorfindel whispered softly as I glanced up, catching the unbelievably soft look in his eyes once more.“Is there a particular song you wish for me to sing?” I asked him as I broke the connection between us to look into the calm woods around us.“I wish for you to sing whatever your heart desires.” Glorfindel murmured as I smiled slightly and took a moment to think of a song to sing for him.I closed my eyes as I sang an old song from my childhood. It was one that my father sang that I always felt spoke of his deep emotions for my mother. I could feel Glorfindel’s fingers still their movement for a moment before he continued braiding. I relaxed further at the soft touch and the gentle humming that Glorfindel was doing behind me. I smiled feeling for at ease than I had in quite some time. This whole entire evening had been pleasantly perfect. I tilted my head and glanced up at Glorfindel as I sang just to see the look of peace upon his face. It was a look that suited Glorfindel better than any others and I longed for a world without darkness so he could remain at peace always.I knew that the world would never again be without darkness. Especially not with Sauron out their gathering strength and power to bring death and destruction to the lands once more. I knew that when the time came that I could not count on the Numenoreans to aid us. Numenor was lost to us, and our alliance broke with the laws that banned even the contact with the elves recently coming into effect. I had belief that perhaps one day they may see the wrongs they have committed. Until then, there was only the faithful that offered information. I shook my head to shake away the sadness when Glorfindel’s hand settled on my shoulder to draw my away from my sad thoughts. I smiled at him in gratitude as I placed my hand over his on my shoulder knowing that I need not worry with him at my side.
~Year 3177 of the Second Age
I knew that the walk in the gardens was my father’s attempt to take my mind off of the vision that I had seen. I had to admit that I had hoped for the Numenoreans when I had learned that Tar-Palantir had restored or rather attempted to restore the elvish ideology in Numenor. The spies that watched the ever-growing Numenorean settlements and the view of the Faithful that remained allied with us had reported that the action had caused great disruption. Tar-Palantir was written to be a seer of his people and upon taking the throne had taken to repent for the previous kings’ action. The vision that I received showed that despite the reported care he showed the White Tree and honoring the great Eru Iluvatar that the darkness would continue to consume the Numenoreans in the coming years.“Do you believe that Eru Iluvatar will offer his forgiveness?” I queried softly knowing that my father knew the Valar and could offer council where others could not.“I cannot know what the Valar have planned for Numenor or Eru Iluvatar will once again favor them in the face of the disrespect they have been shown in recent years.” My father commented as he reached out to pull free a flower from the sacred tree and reached forward to place it in my braid “The Valar have not been known for their leniency in the past.”“The elves that were once banished had earned their ability to return.” I murmured as I touched the petals of the flower with a smile of thanks for the thoughtful gesture.“I imagine that the same can be said of the Numenoreans.” My father said with a thoughtful look on his face “They would need to prove their willingness to follow the one that grants life to us all and earn his forgiveness.”“The Nolder were only forgiven with great sacrifices in the War of Wrath.” I whispered with a deep sadness knowing that even I sometime longed for a peace beyond even what could be found in the most peaceful of lands in Middle Earth.“Indeed.” My father replied as he reached forward to place a steady hand on my shoulder “You cannot know for sure what Eru Iluvatar, and the Valar have in store for the remaining Numenoreans. It is not your task to interfere with such things at such dark times.”“I have learned that although I am shown such things does not mean that I must act to alter the course of others.” I commented feeling a deep sadness before looking away from my father “Celebrimbor’s death taught me the lesson of some path being set in stone.”“It makes my spirit heavy to know that his passing to the undying lands have caused such sadness within you.” My father murmured as he took a seat on the stone bench and stare off towards the west “I have longed to protect you from learning such lessons as I fear that what might darken your light and deem your spirit.”“I will not say that Celebrimbor’s passing from these lands did not affect me deeply.” I said as I took a seat at his side and placed my hand over his “I cannot afford to be as naïve as I once was. Sauron will tear down those that I hold dear if I am to blindly believe that good shall always win.”“It was never my desire to have you learn of the price of war.” My father whispered with a pained look in his eyes “And yet, war is something that I cannot bar you from. You are more than my daughter and as much as I wish to protect you, your fate is greater than my desires.”“I will always be your daughter above all the expectations that fate has set for me.” I replied with a sad smile as my father gave me a smile in return before leaning over to kiss my forehead.“I have been most blessed to have you as my daughter, little light.” My father whispered as he pulled back with eyes shining with fatherly love and adoration “If you ever doubt all that is around you, I do hope you shall never doubt that you are my greatest treasure and joy. There is no deed of greater accomplishment than being your father and seeing you grow into the elf that sits before me today.”“I would never doubt your care or devotion. Everything that I am and all that I have learned to be is because of who you are. I only wish to be looked upon and found worthy of being your daughter.” I said honestly knowing that my father was my greatest mentor and hero.“You are more than worthy.” My father commented with an amused look “You have already proven to be greater than myself in all ways and you have yet to face your greatest trails. You will shine to those of these lands in ways that I couldn’t hope to do so. Your light, grace, and kindness set you apart from all others.”“Thank you, father.” I replied softly as I watched the wind shifting through the leaves on the sacred tree.My father sat at my side while looking like every bit of the regal King of Lindon that was expected of him. I knew that he was so much more than the image that he presented to those around him. There was still so much that I did not even know about my father. There were still so many things that I did not know or understand about the world as a whole. In that moment, I did not know how to fully accept that there was nothing that I could do for the people that I had considered allies and dear friends. I felt my father shift at my side and pull me closer in a side hug that made me feel so small. I sighed as the tension faded from my body knowing that this was my father’s attempt to shelter me even from my thoughts.
~Year 3262 of the Second Age
I ran as quickly as my foot could carry my body forward in a race to get to my father’s study. I could hardly believe what I had been informed of when meeting with the elves that just returned from their watch to the south. It was startling in many ways but most of all it was very unsettling to learn about what had occurred. The detail had barely stated the words before I turned around and took off to inform my father. I knew that there was little that could be done to prevent it from happening due to the distance between us, but there would be lasting ramifications. I had seen it in the form of a vision many decades ago in predicting the downfall of Numenor.“Father…” I said as I pushed open the door before pausing upon seeing he was meeting with Lord Cirdan and Glorfindel “Forgive me for the interruption. I bring news from the south that is of great importance.”“What news has you forgetting your manners, little light?” My father questioned me as he motioned for me to take a seat and I smiled when Glorfindel reached out to touch my arm in silent comfort as I passed by him.“Our sentries near Umbar have reported that Ar-Pharazon has arrived in the settlement to take Sauron captive and journey with him to imprison him in Numenor.” I explained as I watched my father’s eyes widen at that information.“Numenor is already split between two fractions. Sauron’s influence within the nation would be devasting and I doubt that Ar-Pharazon can withstand Sauron’s attempts to sway him on an even darker path.” Lord Cirdan commented after a moment causing my father to frown deeply.“As much as I attempt to find the same hope for the Numenoreans that you both do, I doubt that Ar-Pharazon would be able to withstand the schemes of Sauron.” Glorfindel offered with a serious look of concern as I glanced away from him knowing that the Numenoreans have been the subject of many of our quarrels throughout the years.“That begs the question of what schemes and chaos Sauron has planned for Numenor.” My father murmured with a deeper frown as he looked at me “Has Ar-Pharazon captured Sauron?”“The sentries reported that he arrived with a mass army. The allies that have reformed the army for Sauron would not be able to yet withstand his force.” I explained as I recalled the information that I had been told by the two sentries that questioned if we would aid the Numenoreans.“Sauron has been attacking their settlements for quite some time. Ar-Pharazon would need to resolve the issue with all of the conflict that has occurred since he stole the throne.” Glorfindel said as he tilted his head slightly to look at my father “Sauron would have most likely expected an attempt to attack him. Numenor and the dark Numenoreans are weak at the moment. Sauron’s attempts could have worked in his favor whether he won or lost against them.”“Sauron was proven to be both resourceful and cunning in the past.” My father replied as I flinched remember the process that led to Eregion’s downfall and Celebrimbor’s death.“And the Numenoreans have proven to be rather weak in mind in recent decades.” Cirdan commented as I swallowed thickly while silently wishing that I could honestly disagree with him.“It has long since been decided that the elves will no longer involve themselves in the matters of Numenor while there are such disruptive tendencies being displayed.” My father murmured as Glorfindel placed a hand on my shoulder when I stiffened “We will leave the fate of Numenor, even with Sauron’s influence, to the will of the Valar and Eru Iluvatar.”“Very well, Father. I shall send messengers to inform the sentries to remain cautious and hidden from view while confirming the no contact orders.” I replied softly while fighting the urge to protest the orders.The only reason that I didn’t attempt to change my father’s mind was because I knew that my father had more experience with this type of thing than I did. My father had fought and lived during the time where there was a great war that split the elves. There was a ban that was put in place due to the rebellious attacks. I had grown up hearing about the stories from the elves of Lindon and those that looked up to my father. I was great friends with one of the Nolder leaders that had chosen to remain and knew everything from Galadriel’s point of view. I knew that this wasn’t the first time that a great kingdom had fallen to the schemes of a great darkness.I stood with a nod of respect to my father before exiting the room to meet with the messengers that I left so suddenly in coming here. Each step that I took was with a heavy heart knowing that the directions would no doubt just enforce the vision that I had seen of their downfall. Ar-Pharazon was truly the most despicable of all of the Numenor Kings in the past. I had known that with the knowledge that he forced his cousin, Miriel, to marry him and stole her throne from her. Miriel would have continued the path towards forgiveness while Ar-Pharazon had taken to vilifying those that worshipped the Valar or Eru Iluvatar or had any contact with Elves. So, with a heavy heart or not, I would tell the sentries not to get involved with the war that Ar-Pharazon was raging or attempt to stop him from taking Sauron captive. The path was set for Numenor and there was nothing that I could do to change it.
~Year 3319 of the Second Age
The images that consumed my mind hit so suddenly that I didn’t have time to dodge the blade that sliced down my arm. The pain from the wound didn’t compare to the way that the vision set fire to my body. It felt as if I could feel the rage of Eru Iluvatar down to my very spirit. The unknown faces shifted as my body shook as it seemed that the world would shake. My blood spilled as clearly as the waters that drown the lands within my view. My soul felt split as the oceans and world reshaped itself altering a well-known path. A scream tore from my lips as I felt my body being shattered as a deep connection to the lands was ripped from me.“Princess!” Glorfindel shouted as he shook my weary body and I let out a cry as my mind tried to understand what I had been shown “Summon the king!”“No…” I said as I felt my throat ache from the screaming that I must have done throughout the vision.“You are bleeding…” Glorfindel commented with a frown as I touched my face and pulled away to see the sharp contrast between red and white on my fingers ““What happened?” My father questioned while practically roaring as he came running up the path to the training field “Little light!”“Princess Siladhiel had a vision.” Glorfindel explained as my stomach lurched again at how violently the vision had struck me “I had never seen such a reaction. She was screaming and starting bleeding.”“What have you seen?” My father asked as he reached forward to pull me away from Glorfindel and held me as if I was the most precious thing in the world to him.“I…” I said before choking on emotion recalling the feeling tearing through my body and letting out a sob at the terrible reality of it.“You are safe, little light.” My father murmured as he held me more securely against him and I cried against his chest as if I was a little girl that was seeking his protection.“Perhaps, we should move the princess to a more private location.” Glorfindel murmured as my body shook with the force of my cries that I felt would never end.“Come, Glorfindel.” My father commanded as I was lifted in his arm and clung to his neck “Am I to assume the injury to her arm was from your blade?”“There was no sign of the vision coming upon her and she did not dodge the attack. I did not know in time to avoid striking her with my blade. Forgive me for harming the princess.” Glorfindel replied softly as I flinched when my father touched the wound on my arm.“I am aware that you would never knowingly cause my daughter harm, Glorfindel.” My father said calmly as I felt him quicken his steps “You shall see to the injury when we reach her chambers and then summon a maid to prepare a calming drink for her.”“What do you believe she had seen?” Glorfindel queried as I breathed in a shaky breath and the calming scent of my father made me feel safe despite the darkness that I was shown. “It must have been someone of great of importance to cause such a reaction.” My father murmured as his rubbed my back to assist in keeping me calm “I have never known a vision to harm her. I did not believe that such a thing was possible.”“I shall return, princess.” Glorfindel whispered as my father set me down on my bed and I immediately clung to him when he went to step away from me.“Breathe, little light. I have no desire to leave you alone while you are weary. I simply wished to take a closer look at the wound on your arm.” My father said with gentle eyes as I looked at him wearily before releasing him to allow him to move freely once more “Will you speak of your vision?”I shook my head sharply making my father frown sharply. I knew that I should speak of it, but the truth was that the pain of it lingered still. I could feel a weariness to the core of my being as the darkness that I had seen seemed to even touch the light of my true self. This wasn’t like any other vision that I had seen before. I could still feel my body shaking from the aftermath of it. The very reason of what I was shown was clear to me though, Ar-Pharazon would do something that would alter the very face of this world.I had known that little good could come from Ar-Pharazon taking Sauron to Numenor when there was so much discord among the Numenoreans. It wasn’t until the faithful Numenoreans started appearing in mass numbers and much more frequently that I learned more about why Sauron had allowed himself to be captured to begin with. Sauron had used the same tactics that worked to gain the favor of the elves long ago. In little time, Sauron was freed from his imprisonment and began an advisor to Ar-Pharazon. The downfall of Numenor was set as the darkness consumed the King’s Men. There was no mercy to be found for the faithful that remained in the lands.The faithful began to seek sanctuary within our lands as those that remained fought in secrecy to ensure that as many as possible were sent to safety. The reasons behind the need for them to leave Numenor behind were startling to learn about. Ar-Pharazon had destroyed the sacred White Tree and began to openly worship Melkor. Ar-Pharazon even went as far as to build a temple in honor of the dark lord that all of the black Numenoreans worshipped in place of the Valar and Eru Iluvatar. It was the next action that made my body revolt in disgust along with all those present when we learned of the heinous actions taking place in Numenor. Ar-Pharazon had started sacrificing those that were part of the faithful fraction of Numenoreans in honor of Melkor.I knew when I learned of him forcefully marrying his cousin, Miriel, that Ar-Pharazon was the darkest of characters but to learn of his willingness to sacrifice people in such a way showed that he would bring about the end of his people. The alliance with Numenor would end with the wrath and vengeance of Eru Iluvatar and the Valar. Sauron’s ability to corrupt was great and it was a devastating realization that the Black Numenoreans, or the King’s Men, could not withstand Sauron’s deception. The line that started through a dear and beloved friend had fallen so far from grace that even I had no hope left for the land and kingdom that Elros created so many years again. Even before the future become a reality, I mourned for the path that his people took when Elros had been such an amazing and kind leader for his people.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Chapter

~Siladhiel Point of View~

~Year 3319 of the Second Age
There was no denying what had come to pass. One would need only to see the looks of utter devastation and anger on the faces of all those around me to know the importance of the moment. The varying degrees of emotions as the world shook violently under the rage of Eru Iluvatar. A fate that I had seen so many years ago was becoming a reality. A fate that would alter the very world around us and change the way to the undying lands. I drew in a shaky breath knowing that it was due to the actions of the Numenoreans that had caused this. There was not a single elf around me that didn’t feel the extreme measures being taken by Eru Iluvatar.“Little light, is this…” My father whispered to me as I stared at the violent waves off the shore that reflected the drowning of Numenor a great distance away.“Indeed, father, it is. What I had foreseen has come to pass.” I replied to him as my heart ached at the reality of losing such dear friends and allies in such a way “Ar-Pharazon has sought to step foot onto Aman with a fleet of soldiers and Numenor has been drowned under the wrath of Eru Iluvatar.”“It has come to this…” My father murmured with a distant and haunted look in his eyes that spoke of the same pain that I had felt in that moment.“The will of the Valar has seen to that Aman and Tol Eressea be removed from the mortals of this world. Ainulindale shall call our kin to Vilanor even from such a distance and Ulmo shall provide the safe passage through the treacherous waters.” I offered knowing that my vision has seen that there would still be elves leaving from our shores “I fear that to depart means one will not be permitted to return.”“Ulmo has always seen to the safety of travels between these lands and spoke out against preventing our kin’s presence in these lands.” Lord Cirdan commented as he approached, and I nodded knowing Ulmo had known wisely that Elves were needed for the balance of these lands.“It is the will of Eru to see that the way is shut. If one hears the song and travels from these lands, Ulmo can only see to their protection to Vilanor and not their return as is the will of Eru Iluvatar.” I explained before reaching out to grab my father’s hand and squeeze it in comfort “I do not believe that the changing of the world means that we must all depart these lands.”“No, I think not. There is much to do in these lands and Sauron will return to these lands now that he has seen to the destruction of Númenor.” My father replied as his eyes glared at the water with hatred that I could understand all too well “The corrupted numenoreans will aid in his plight as he turns his eyes to middle earth once more. We cannot abandon those of these lands to fight alone.”“Indeed, we shall remain for some time as I have seen to assist against Sauron. The time of Elves has not come to leave these lands.” I confirmed as Lord Cirdan looked concerned upon the water and my father’s stiff form “Unless one was to ignore the call of the sea, there is no need to fear the fading of one’s light.”“Come, little light, I do believe that our people need the assurance of your wisdom.” My father murmured softly as the crowd of elves were gathering along the shores and staring at the waves with the same look on my father’s face.“Now that the world has been so altered, I fear that our kin will rely even more upon your light and grace.” Lord Cirdan whispered softly as a breeze whipped around me and I closed my eyes to the distant presence that I felt there.“I can only hope that it will be enough in the dark times ahead…” I said after a moment as I foresaw dark flashes of times that have yet to occur.“I have all the belief in the world that you shall not fail in the task before you.” My father replied as he reached out to link our arms together and leaned over to kiss my forehead in the way that always brought me the greatest source of comfort.“As long as you remain at my side…” I murmured with a soft smile as I took strength from his presence at my side alone.“I shall always be at your side, little light. You shall never fight this darkness alone.” My father assured me as we walked down the path where the elves were slowly taking notice and looking towards me.“No, Princess Siladhiel, shall never be alone in her plight.” Glorfindel commented as he appeared from behind the group with soft and gentle eyes causing a warmth to surge through me.“Glorfindel…” I whispered as my father took a step back allowing the warrior to approach me and place a hand on my face.“I ran as swiftly as possible to return to your side fearing that such an event would have weakened you once more.” Glorfindel murmured as his eyes looked me over for the weariness that occurred at the last drastic vision.“I am well, Glorfindel. You do not need to worry over my spirit. I find that I was not enforced to undergo the harshness of feeling the world altering.” I assured him as Glorfindel looked still concerned over my wellbeing.“Very well.” Glorfindel said after a moment before stepping away to stand at my other side.The murmuring and whispering around me reminded me of why we had walked down to the shore. My father stepped forward to explain to the others what I had seen. I took strength from his own and the presence of Glorfindel at my side. Glorfindel’s true self brushed against me to offer a steady place to lean. It was something that I needed as I stepped forward to assure my kin that our place remained here in Middle Earth. The elven folk were in touch with the world around us and it was clear that it would take time to adjust to the change. The sinking of lands and circling of the world had rippled through the true selves of all that were touched with immortality. It had left many of them shaken and worried in a way that would simply take time to heal from. Until then, I had to remain strong for those around me and lead them through this great upset.In truth, my kin had not realized the true danger in what had occurred here. The drowning of Númenor left the fractions without leadership. The settlements outside of Númenor remained and will be looking towards my kin as those the ones to blame for what has occurred. I would need to send spies to maintain vigil on Pelargir, Umbar, Lond Daer, and the various other settlements. We would need to protect the settlements of the Faithful that would be seeking direction, especially those of Pelargir. We would need to be prepared for attacks from the Black Numenoreans that would seek revenge for the drowning of their homeland. The future seemed to be a blur with the chaos that this event had caused and worse of all, I could not see what would become of Sauron with the fall of Númenor.
~Time Lapse: Same Year
I ran forth from the palace to meet the approaching nine ships with a lightened heart. I knew what these nine ships would represent to the few of my once great friends that remained. These ships carried the hope of the future and for the fate of man. By the time I reached the end of the dock, I could look upon the faces of those that managed to escape the drowning of Númenor. I felt a surge of hope as I looked upon them and knew not their names, but their faces were known to me. Their paths and fates were written to stand against this darkness with elves at their side. The sacrifice of Amandil had seen to it with the blessing of Eru Iluvatar.“Welcome to Lindon. Long have I known your faces, but I wish to know the names of the allies on my shore. I am Princess Siladhiel, the daughter of King Gil-Galad and longtime friend of your blood.” I greeted brightly as I watched the numenoreans look at me in surprise as one of the men softened with a look of relief at my name.“It is a pleasure to greet you princess and receive such a warm welcome after our plight.” The man said with a slight bow of respect, and I softened even more at the weariness in his soul “I am Elendil, son of Amandil. This is my wife, Annalina, and our sons Isildur and Anarion.”“I am most pleased to meet you, Lord Elendil. Your father was most courageous in his plight, and I was overjoyed that Eru Illuvatar had granted you mercy.” I offered gently as he looked at me in surprise “I am not surprised to find that the descendants of Silmarien hold such courage.”“You know of her?” Annalina questioned me before looking like she was going to apologize for speaking out of turn making me smile to assure her.“Indeed, I did know Princess Silmarien. Although, not as well as I would have wished. I traveled to Númenor to attend her wedding. I had wished deeply to converse with the Lords of Andunie. I have heard a great many things about them, including your father, as they continued to lead the Faithful.” I offered honestly as Elendil looked slightly surprised as I turned slightly to smile at my father when he approached.“It seems that you had managed once more to beat me here in your excitement, little light.” My father commented with a serious look, and I just smiled sheepishly at him as he turned to Elendil “Welcome to my kingdom, Lord Elendil. You are most welcome here until such time as you wish for other accommodations. I trust that you have had easy travels despite your plight.”“Indeed, there was a great wind that quickened our journey here.” Elendil confirmed as I smiled knowing that Ulmo had ensured it and that Eru Iluvatar had blessed them.“Very well, come let us speak on the way to the palace. My daughter has sought to have quarters set up for you within the palace for the duration of your stay.” My father explained to them as I took a step next to Isildur when we began our departure from the shores.“I trust that you have healed from your plight to retrieve the fruit of the tree.” I murmured as he looked at me stunned and I smiled in amusement “Do not worry. We have no need for the seed. I had foreseen your plight and injury before the fall of Númenor.”“You are a seer…” Isildur commented as I nodded in confirmation “Did you foresee it?”“Not in time to be able to prevent it.” I murmured with as I glanced away from him with a heavy heart before shaking it away to offer him a sad smile “It simply lightens my heart to know that my once dear friend’s line continues and remains strong through all of you. I do think that Elros would be honored to know that the Lords of Andunie remained strong when the line of kings failed to honor the gift.”“You knew Tar-Minyatur?” Isildur questioned me with wide eyes as I nodded feeling amused that he even had to question that.“I considered him to be one of my best friends. I still miss his presence at times.” I replied before shaking my head slightly at the feeling of melancholy and glanced towards the woman at this side “I do believe that our introductions were interrupted. I find that I do not know the names of many here.”“Indeed. This is my wife, Freya.” Isildur introduced seeming to understand that I didn’t wish to focus on my past before motioning to the young man at his side “This is my only son, Elendur.”“I am pleased to meet you.” I said to his wife and son who smiled back at me before I turned to Anarion who had much more family to introduce causing him to look almost amused at me.“This is my wife, Ansa, Princess Siladhiel.” Anarion directed me as I smiled at the weary woman at his side before, he motioned to three young girls of various ages “These are our daughters Hilda, Liv, and Revna.”“It is a pleasure.” I murmured with a slight bow after each of them greeted me and I turned my attention to the very small child in Ansa’s arms “And what of this little one?”“This is our son, Meneldi.” Ansa said softly as the baby shifted to reach for me and I smiled glancing between his parents.“May I?” I queried knowing that I adored children and Ansa nodded with a look of relief allowing me to take the infant “You must be quite a strong one little one to have sailed across the seas so young…”I chuckled lightly when the little infant giggled up at me and grabbed at my hair. Children were truly so precious in this world. I rocked the infant calmly in my arms and looked around at the true rulers of the Numenoreans. I doubted that so soon into their journey that they understood how vital they would prove to the future of this realm. I glanced at Elendil who walked next to my father before me. I could see a shadow of a future that depended on the friendship that was being built between them. My heart just soared at the knowledge that Elros’ line continued and despite the circumstances, had rejoined us here on these lands. I had no doubt that there would be a great struggle before them as they would reunite their people here. Elendil would not be without allies in building the Numenoreans in exile kingdom for those of the faithful that had survived the fall on Númenor on our shores. Lindon would stand with Elendil and assist him in all that he needed.
~Year 3325 of the Second Age
I smiled at King Elendil as I approached the dwelling of Annuminas. The city had grown greatly and was a worthy reflection of the Capital of Arnor. It suited that it had been built upon the shores of Lake Evendim. I adored the location due to its location so close to Lindon, as one would only need to cross the River Lhun to visit them. I imagined that it would be rather easy to make a stop to see my new friends when returning home from my frequent travels. I was just thankful that he had chosen a much easier location than his sons had when they had founded the sister kingdom of Gondor further to the south. It was an even more of a relief to learn that many of the Numenoreans and Dundain had remained in the northern kingdom since they wished to live close to the elves. It was worrisome how close some of the borders of Gondor were to settlements for Black Numenoreans, especially Umbar.“I trust that your have had a safe journey, Princess Siladhiel.” King Elendil greeted me with a smile as he bowed at the waist, and I nodded at him in confirmation.“I found that I rarely run into any issues that cannot be easily defeated with Lord Glorfindel at my side.” I commented as Elendil glanced to the stoic warrior at my side.“Indeed, one can see why the High King Gil-Galad does not worry over your safety with such a figure to protect you so.” Elendil said as Glorfindel smirked and looked at me with a fond look.“I can assure you that Princess Siladhiel is quite skilled in her own right when it comes to battle. I simply believe that she wishes to ensure that I do not grow bored when she permits me to defend her.” Glorfindel replied as I smiled at him knowing that I couldn’t deny that I had done that in the past.“Indeed.” I murmured as I reached out to brush my hand along his arm before turning to Elendil again “Come, I wish to explore the changes that you have made. It is astonishing to me how quickly you and your sons have built up your kingdoms thus far.”“I have not set my eyes upon Osgiliath, though they have written of the capital.” Elendil commented as I took in the towers that reflected elvish touches.“It is truly a sight to behold. The Tower of the Dome of Stars has since been completed on the bridge. I do believe the two thrones for yours sons as Kings of Gondor is a sight that I shall remember.” I said as I recalled the sight of it before glancing at him “You must be most proud of your sons being able to rule so soundly together.”“Indeed, I strive to ensure they are aware that we must stand united and not allow our bloodline to break with us.” Elendil offered as I looked upon tower that house one the three palantiri that Elendil had within Arnor.“I do so hope that it is a lesson that is well learned.” I confirmed softly before tilting my head to glance back at Glorfindel when his hand found my back “I do wish to assure you that it appears they have taken your warnings of the palantiri seriously. The Dome of Stars offers plenty of protection for the Osgiliath stone.”“Let us hope that they have also sought to secure the Orthanc stone in the tower of Isengard, the stone in Minas Morgul in the tower of the Moon, and in Minas Anor in the tower of the Guard.” Glorfindel said with a slight edge to his voice as Elendil stiffened slightly as I reached out again to place my hand upon Glorfindel’s shoulder.“Forgive him. Lord Glorfindel does not mean to appear to doubt the abilities of your sons to secure such valuable artifacts. He simply worries over these palantiri being so close to the southern enemies and who would occur if one was to gain access and the ability to connect to the others.” I explained softly as Glorfindel glared into the distance and Elendil nodded after a moment.“My sons are aware that there protection is vital as the Dundain maintains contact with the seven stones. They shall ensure their protection as the Dundain here see to the protection of the stones located in my tower and within the tower of Amon Sul.” Elendil commented as I softened slightly recalling where the last stone was.“It is benefitting that you and your kin have sought to honor the stones with such towers. My father is most pleased that you made a tradition of it after he built the three towers on the Westmirch for you and installed the palantiri within the tower of Elostirion.” I murmured knowing that many of the elves enjoyed being able to visit the tower and catch sight of Avallone on Tol Eressea.“Indeed, the High King honored me in building the towers to ease the loss of my homeland.” Elendil whispered with a look of deep sorrow that he would always carry with him.“I see that you have finished your own tower. Perhaps I will be permitted to explore it with Glorfindel before departing for Lindon.” I queried after a moment and Elendil softened while a smile.“Of course, Princess Siladhiel.” Elendil murmured before turning in the direction of the tower “I must insist that you also permit time to visit with my wife. Annalina would be most upset to learn that you had traveled here, and I did not allow her to greet you.”“I would so hate for the High Queen Annalina to be displeased with you, High King Elendil.” I replied with a smirk of my own knowing that Annalina was a very strong woman despite that initial impression of her that I had.“Indeed, so vow to me that you will take pity and visit upon her for a tea ceremony before your departure, Princess Siladhiel.” Elendil pleaded causing me to chuckle lightly as Glorfindel smirked at my side at the mention of a tea ceremony.“Very well, I shall entertain the notion of tea if you ensure that Lord Glorfindel finds his own entertainment while I am busy. Perhaps, he should like to visit with the soldiers and interrupt their training once more.” I said as Glorfindel raised his eyebrow at me while Elendil nodded in delight.“Of course, Princess, I shall take Lord Glorfindel to the training fields and see that my best may spar with him.” Elendil replied as I smirked at Glorfindel who nodded in thanks at the High King of the exiled despite not wishing to spar.I knew that Glorfindel would end up sparring with Elendil. Just as I knew that the High King was no match for Glorfindel, even with the Sceptre of Annuminas or the sword Narsil at his disposal. Although, I had to admit to the skill and might that the Numenoreans High King had in battle. Glorfindel had many more centuries of experience and there were few that could hold their own in battle against him. My father was one of the few that could beat him easily. I smiled slightly at the thought of the strange rivalry between my father and Glorfindel. My father respected Glorfindel more than most elves and trusted him far more than any others, especially with my care. Still, there were still many moments of friction whenever my father would hear of my spending time alone with Glorfindel.
~Year 3379 of the second age
I leaned against Glorfindel’s thigh as he continued to run his fingers through my hair. My body was grateful for the reprieve and rest that I found in the woods outside of Lindon. I was well aware that I could have easily continued the journey to return to the capital and briefed my father on my findings from my travels within Gondor and further south. I found that I could not bring myself to care as Glorfindel’s fingers continued their soothing motions as he skillfully removed the braids that he had placed upon my head to begin with. These were the singular moments that seemed to make the darkness fade from my life.“I long for days like this.” I murmured with a sigh of relief as I relaxed further into his touch before he paused his fingers for a moment.“I wish to give you as many peaceful days as able.” Glorfindel whispered softly as I shifted to glance up at him to find his expressive eyes shining with adoration “I wish for nothing more than to ensure the rest of your days remain peaceful with me at your side.”“Do you believe that I will ever know a world without this darkness?” I queried after I laid my head back down against his leg not wishing to see the look on his face at my thoughts.“I have no doubt in my mind that you will outshine the darkness that is Sauron. Do not doubt your abilities, my princess of light. You will banish Sauron from these lands.” Glorfindel replied as he shifted to moved me to look up at him and I winced slightly at the pressure of the statement on my shoulders “What is weighing on you so heavily, princess?”“I find myself at a moment in time where I wonder if this is all I shall ever know. Is my fate to only know the grapples of peace in slim moments of time while awaiting a form of darkness to emerge from the shadows in an attempt to steal all that I know from me?” I questioned him as I leaned back to shift my body to face him completely as Glorfindel softened slightly as he leaned against the tree behind him further.“I cannot say what Eru Illuvatar has planned for you, nor do I know what fate has in store for you, Siladhiel.” Glorfindel whispered as he reached forward to place a hand on my cheek “I do so hope that you will be granted a future where you will know the peace that you seek.”“Do you ever tire of it?” I queried him as Glorfindel tilted his head slightly in question “It appears that our lives have been in this stage for so long and there is no end to this darkness before us now. How long must I deny myself in the name of the greater good of the kingdom and lands that surround it?”“Siladhiel…” Glorfindel murmured with a look of heartbreak as he realized the pain in my eyes, and he took me into his arms “My heart is heavy at the notion that you tire of the stage that we are in. I wish that we could be together as we both long for. If it was in my power to persuade your father to permit it, then I would do so.”“It is not right of my father to prevent us from making the vows to each other and bound in the customs of our kin before others.” I said as I buried my face against his chest as there was a surge of pain within me.“The High King is a great leader of our kin, there is none greater than he is. Even more so, Gil-Galad loves you more than any other and cares for your happiness above all else. He does not deny us this now to cause you pain.” Glorfindel said softly as he held me a little tighter against his chest as I felt tears surprise me.“Do you not long for it as much as I do?” I asked him as my heart felt like it was shattering within me and Glorfindel chuckled lowly making me snap back to glare at him.“You do so amuse me at times, Siladhiel.” Glorfindel murmured as he leaned forward to kiss my forehead “There has never been anything that my entire being longs for more than you. I wish to call you my wife and I shall if Eru Iluvatar permits the future to allow such. You know this to be true, do you not?”“I do…” I whispered knowing that Glorfindel’s entire self was dedicated to me “I do not believe that there is any that can view us and not seen that we have a bond of our choosing between us.”“And it is our choice in the end.” Glorfindel commented as he brushed a few strands of my hair behind my pointed ear “I shall wait an eternity until such a time that we can follow the customs of our kin and be allowed to vow before Eru Iluvatar in marriage to each other. I care not if we are fated for one another, if I shall be permitted to have you as my wife then I should hesitate to claim you for myself.”“I want that so much, Glorfindel, and you have been so patient with me. I can hardly believe that you have remained so firmly at my side despite everything that keeps us apart.” I said honestly while thinking of how long it took for me to even accept that he had cared for me as he did.“Siladhiel, do not doubt for a moment that you are worth every moment that I have spent waiting for the time that I may call you mine in the eyes of the kingdom in front of your father and with Eru Iluvatar’s blessing.” Glorfindel assured me as he leaned forward to kiss my forehead softly “I have never regretted a single moment at your side. Be it as a friend, guardian, or protector. I will remain at your side for as long as Eru permits it. We shall wait for a time when war is not upon us as our kin do not marry in a time of unrest. I shall remain at your side until there are peaceful times upon us once more.”“I find myself terrified at the notion of a future where you are no longer at my side.” I murmured just thinking of something occurring that prevents him from being here when Glorfindel is part of me after all these years.“Do not fear what shall never happen, Siladhiel. I shall never abandon you.” Glorfindel vowed as he kissed my forehead again with a look of softness in his eyes and I smiled sadly knowing that he could not truly promise that.“The world may need my light, Glorfindel, but you shall always have my heart.” I whispered as I leaned up to kiss his cheek as Glorfindel gave me a look filled with adoration again.“And you shall always have mine, Siladhiel. Everything that I am is for you and you alone.” Glorfindel replied before wrapping me securely in his arms and I sighed softly as I leaned completely against him to fully accept the comfort offered.“Does that mean that I may request a song of you, Glorfindel?” I queried with a smile as I felt him chuckle lightly at my request.“Of course, Princess.” Glorfindel said before relaxing against the tree once more.I sighed as the sound of his song washed over me allowing me to push aside my worries. There was a filling deep in my chest that made me terrified over a possible future without Glorfindel at my side. I knew that I could no longer picture a future without my vigilant protector at my side. Glorfindel had been with me through every moment for so long that I did not know what it was like to walk a path without him. I had long since come to depend on him as much, if not more, than my own father. Glorfindel and I had grown together in a way where we were intertwined together even without a bond of marriage between us. I did not believe that my light would survive if something was to occur that would tear him from my side now.I closed my eyes as I leaned into his gentle touch as our true selves embraced each other with ease. Glorfindel and I were not granted a normal path to walk. Nothing about either of our circumstances was like the rest of our kin. The very nature of my birth was unlike any other and I shouldered a fate that was too heavy to ignore. Glorfindel had already gone through the hall and found favor with the Valar to return to these lands. It was no surprise that we would not have a normal courtship between us. Our kin typically chose each other many years before becoming betrothed to each other and in just a single year would wed before their houses. Glorfindel and I had grown to care for each other much slower than normal, but in a way that was much deeper than expected. I just had to hold onto the same faith that Glorfindel had that in the future that we would be granted a change to pledge to each other formally and join our lights together.I sighed as Glorfindel’s song drifted to something full of hope and love. I knew that we had but a moment before we needed to continue back to Lindon. My father was awaiting an update on what we had observed on Umbar. The stronghold of the black Numenoreans remained firmly against the elves and the Dundain. To make matters worse, they had begun sailing and building settlements to build alliances with the people of Haradrim. There was too little known about the men so far south and none of our allies had successfully managed to grasp the scope of their alliances. I simply wished that I could ease the worries of the others when they had learned such information. Glorfindel had frowned deeply and shook his head as even his knowledge of the far lands failed to know much about the men of these lands.In truth, it was those worries that lingered and dampened the joy of meeting Ciryon. Ciryon was the newest babe born to Isildur from his third wife. The sight of the new son in what seemed like so few years after the birth of his son, Aartan, had brought time into a sharp focus. I knew that it had been forty years since Aartan had been born and almost two decades since the passing of Isildur’s second wife. I had not known many numenoreans to take multiple wives, but Isildur had taken two after the passing of his first wife. Such things where not something that my kin did as when you bound in marriage it was a permanent bond that even death could not break, as you would be rejoin with one another in the undying lands. The only exception to having a single spouse among my kin was Finwe when he was permitted to take Miriel as a second wife when his first remained in the halls of Mandos.I opened my eyes at stared up at the peaceful look on Glorfindel’s face. Despite knowing that Glorfindel was not a perfect match in the eyes of my mother, I could not imagine choosing another over Glorfindel. Mortals often had chosen and taken multiples due to the lusts of the body. The bounds of elves ran deeper than that and once we permitted our light to embrace another while our physical bodies joined there was no separating what was joined together. I could not imagine a mortal man willing to wait as Glorfindel had as the act of sex was marriage itself in our kin. I closed my eyes again knowing that is why elves did not suffer the forcing on the flesh as some mortals did.I shook head my free before I could spiral down the path of the darkness within the hearts of men. I leaned into Glorfindel’s careful fingers brushing through my hair. I knew that in time he would start twisting my strands back into an elaborate braid that he thought worthy of me. It was a routine that I was all too happy to allow him to have as I did not have the desire to braid my own hair. Also, I did so enjoy how tender this elvish warrior was with me when there were so few got to even see him smile. I smiled as I allowed myself to simply enjoy this moment before the responsibilities found us once more. The world, lands, elves, and even the Valar had such high expectations of both of us. The only expectation that we had for each other was that we both survive to be permitted to live together in a peaceful time.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Chapter

~Siladhiel Point of View~

~Year 3425 of the Second Age
There was a deep air of peace that settled within me as I closed my eyes at the gentle fingers moving and twisting my hair into braids. The love that I could feel for the man that was my father at how easily he spared the time to complete a simple action despite the effort it took to rule our kingdom. My father was so much more than the fearless and strong leader that others viewed when they looked upon him. My father was the elven king that always approached me when I spent time in the blessed gardens of Yavanna at the center of the palace to ensure that I was aware that I knew how vital I was to him. No matter how much I have grown or how many centuries have past, I would always been his little daughter that needed assistance braiding her hair.I smiled knowing that there was much truth to that. I was skilled at a great deal of things, but despite my many attempts I could not quite achieve the same delicate braids that my father or Glorfindel could achieve. In all honesty, I never put a true attempt in learning to do so. I rather enjoyed spending time with one of them and allowing them to braid my wild hair for me. Despite the similar look to my hair, it had always been a little more untamable than others around me. Even now, it was due to a simple ride through the lands surrounding the palace that caused my hair to become unhinged to begin with. Now, my father was singing a peaceful melody that I had never heard before that just enhanced the peaceful feeling that settled over the Garden of Light.“Even after all this time, I still do not know all the songs you carry with you.” I whispered as my father paused his fingers for a moment as I sensed amusement surge in his true self.“I was unaware that you were attempting to learn all the songs that I have sung throughout my long life.” My father replied with a slight chuckle as I tilted my head slightly to look up at him.“How else would I sing with you if I do not know the song?” I queried as my father softened his eyes as he stared at me with familiar fondness.“I do not wish for the day that your ability to learn from me comes.” My father murmured after a moment as I smiled up at him sadly knowing that my father often wished that he could keep me the little elleth that I once was.“I doubt that there will ever be such a day, father. You continue learn more as I learn to simply catch up to your knowledge.” I assured him with an amused smile knowing that my father was wiser that any that I had ever met.“I am not so sure, little light. You learn and gain wisdom so quickly. You have always had a deep desire to know all things of this world.” My father said with a sort of sad smile as he leaned down to kiss my forehead “It is a habit of yours that has both brought me great joy and caused much worry.”“I have always thought you worry too much.” I commented with a smirk as my father shook his head in amusement.“Thus is the burden of being a father to a daughter. Although, I fear that I have much more cause to worry as there has never been a father to such a unique daughter in the past.” My father replied as I chuckled knowingly and reached out to playfully pat his cheek.“I would vow to attempt to stop doing things that cause you worry, but I fear that would be an impossible promise to keep.” I said honestly as my father let out a laugh and nodded in agreement.“Indeed, I have never been able to keep you from doing anything once your mind is set.” My father murmured with a fond smile as I shrugged helplessly “It is a quality that has suited you well, little light. I would not change a single thing about you.”“I wouldn’t change a thing about you either, father. I am blessed to be your daughter.” I whispered with a surge of love and adoration for the elf that I strived to reflect in everything that I did.“As am I.” My father said softly before he continued braiding my hair and singing softly.I smiled again as my father’s voice filled the quiet of the garden. My father was known for being a great ruler of Lindon and one of the greatest warriors among our kind. There were few that spoke of how he sang with his true self shining with purity that almost matched my own. It was a song that was his alone to sing and I doubted that anyone else knew it since my father was very private. I was honored to be among the few that was able to know who it was beyond the title of High-King. Although, I do still believe that the one that knew my father best was Lord Cirdan. Maybe, perhaps, my mother knew him just as well despite the distance.I frowned slightly as I tried to picture how my father truly felt about the separation from his wife. I had never truly known my mother to miss her. I knew that I would meet her if I was ever permitted to sail to undying lands or past through the halls at the end of this lifetime here to find myself there. My father’s song was filled with the love and adoration for my mother’s beauty. A deep affection that so few knew that the High-King even held for another outside me. I could hardly picture them together when I myself have never known my father in such a way. I glanced up at him again and took in the peaceful expression on his face. There was a certain strength that my father possessed to survive with a longing so deep in his spirit and still not reveal it to others. I doubted that I would ever know any that would prove to be everything that my father was. I smiled sadly as a surge of thankfulness filled me that this elf was my father and the one to teach me all these centuries.~Year 3429 of the Second ageI already knew that the summons to my father’s study not to expect us to speak of good tidings. The presence of a deeply frowning Lord Cirdan and a stern looking Glorfindel only served to increase my worry. I could only hope that the reason for my summons was not to tell me of the news of another loss that I would feel deep in my spirit. I had weathered a great deal of grief that has weighed on me in ways that brought me doubt in my abilities to fight as fate dictated in the future. I knew even now by the look on my father’s face that this news is Sauron’s doing.“Father, has something happened?” I queried as I took a seat at the table and my father nodded with a solem look.“Minas Ithil has fallen to Sauron’s forces.” My father explained as my breath stilled in worry for my dear friends that had built such a bueatiful dwelling for the remaining numenoreans.“Has Isildur?” I asked before pausing when I become overwhelmed to even voice the question on whether or not my friend had perished in the assault.“Our spies in the realm tell that he sails to join his father.” Glorfindel assures me as I take a shaky breath and nod at that information.“What else do the spies see?” I questioned him knowing that the reports from the realm of Gondor would bring little good news in light of the fall of Minas Ithil.“Sauron has burned the sacred white tree as his forces took the city. There were many deaths and those that have escape either sail with Isildur or go to aid Anarion in Osgiliath.” Glorfindel offers as I frown deeply knowing that Osigiliath could not fall to Sauron.“Anarion is no fool. He will know that holding the city is vital to ensuring that Sauron does not gain power.” I commented honestly thinking on how well the numenoreans were suited for battle.“Indeed, Osigiliath is the capital of Gondor, and the city is more fortified than Minas Ithil was.” Lord Cirdan said with a stern nod as my father frowned slightly, clearly thinking deeply on the situation.“I do believe that we should caution Anarion to remove the Palantir from its position in the Dome of Stars and allow us to secure it within these lands. It would not serve any of us to allow Sauron even a chance to gain the power of a Palantir.” Glorfindel directs as my father nods in agreement with him.“I agree. I can caution him but there is no guarantee that Anarion will listen to my words of wisdom while he deals with Sauron’s attacks.” My father replied as I nodded in understanding of his statement.“There is also a great risk in moving the Palantir with Sauron’s forces attacking throughout Gondor. Anarion can hold the city until aid arrives.” I commented as my father got a look on his face that had me stiffening slightly “We are going to send aid?”“We will not send our forces to aid him immediately. We must give the Dunedain a chance to prove there strength in these lands.” My father explained as I immediately shook my head in protest.“Then send me alone to fight alongside our allies. Anarion should not have to fight Sauron’s forces alone.” I protested as Glorfindel’s hand found my shoulder causing me to look at him.“You are too vital to the fight to allow you to go alone. If you were meant to interfere, then you would have been shown the path by Eru Illuvatar himself.” Glorfindel explained as I narrowed my eyes on him recalling another time that his desire to protect me caused the loss of a dear friend.“We will aid Anarion in the future. I will summon a council on the threat of Sauron as he sets his sights on conquest once more. You cannot fight this war alone, little light. Sauron is a threat to us all.” My father said honestly as I drew in a breath while hating that my father had a point, but I disliked it.“I will yield to your wisdom and hope that Osgiliath holds until our army can march once more.” I said after a long pause before standing from the table again “If you excuse me, I need a moment. Please summon me if there are any other reports that come from our spies in Gondor.”“Princess…” Glorfindel murmured as I brushed past him while ignoring his attempt to stop me.“Allow her leave, Glorfindel. My daughter’s heart is heavy with this news.” My father directed as I exited the study to walk the path from the palace to the view of the waters.I knew that I could not argue with the logic of taking the time to properly prepare for war against Sauron. I disliked waiting to act when everyday more lives would be lost. Sauron was a festering darkness that I feared would never be defeated. It seemed like every time that I got close to his downfall that he managed to escape with enough strength to rebuild his dark forces to plan another devastating attack. There were too many times in my life that Sauron had cause calamity and death in the wake of his attempts to overtake the realms. I was disheartened to know that even thousands of years later that Sauron was still the greatest threat to all beings of these lands. I doubted that I would ever see an end to this darkness that I was destined to fight and yet failed at each opportunity to do so.
~Time Lapse: Same Year
I chuckled as I pushed my gentle steed faster knowing that my father was still much quicker atop his own mighty steed. I glance ahead, not at all surprised to see my father’s amusement at my attempts to catch up or surpass him to win our little race. This was a place where both of us were free to be ourselves outside the weight of our titles. It was a reason that I rather enjoyed patrolling the lands on occasion in place of soldiers. The other main reason was that the lands of Lindon were enchanting to behold. Even in comparison to all the other elven realms, Lindon stood as the most stunning and naturally beautiful in my mind. The vast lands offered an array of mountains and oceanic views. There so many creatures that settled throughout Eriador as a whole.The few days that I was able to travel through our lands while Glorfindel and Cirdan watched over the capitals brought some much-needed peace and joy. My father and I would rest while singing in the woods. I would sit on a ledge of a cliff overlooking the vast ocean as my father spoke of stories from his own youth that I had never heard before. I was utterly entranced as I listened with rapped interest to things that he knew about my mother’s past. It was strange to realize that it was outside the safety of the palace that he was safe to reveal secrets that no others would know. Of course, there was nothing like the two of us together in nature as the rain began and my father would get this openly wistful expression on his face. I was always a little saddened when the freedom ended with the end of our race when my father reached the palace first. This time was made worse by the appearance of Glorfindel before my father could even taunt my loss once more.“Glorfindel, I trust that all was well during our time away from the palace.” My father commented with a frown as Glorfindel nodded as he moved forward to assist me off my horse.“Indeed, there has been no trouble within the lands.” Glorfindel assured him as I relaxed slightly and settled on my feet once more.“And yet, you are here to get my daughter before I could tease her failure to beat such an old elf in a race.” My father joked with a smirk in my direction as I huffed slightly and allowed one of the servants to take my horse to remove the reigns to let her roam free until I needed her again.“Ah, the little princess has never been one to accept defeat.” Glorfindel said with a smirk of his own as I glared at him due to the fact that I have never beaten him either in a race with horses.“Sidhoidu is young yet. In time even she will ride faster than both Asfaloth and Belegroch.” I replied with ease knowing that she was much younger than my father or Glorfindel’s horses.“Perhaps.” My father said with a slight smirk on his face as he released Belegroch to roam free once more as well “What news do you bring, Glorfindel?”“I bring news from Gondor.” Glorfindel murmured as I stiffened in preparation for news that would dampen my spirits once more “Anarion has successfully led his forces to reclaim Minas Ithil from Sauron.”“That’s wonderful news!” I exclaimed in happiness as I reached out to hug Glorfindel knowing that it boded well for the future of Gondor, that not only did Anarion hold the capital but pushed Sauron back once more.“Indeed.” My father confirmed as I drew away from Glorfindel with a smile “Sauron will not waver in his desires to concur Gondor and then turn his sights toward Eriador. We must summon everyone and come to an agreement for an alliance.”“We will make them see reason, Father.” I assured him feeling light over the great and joyous news despite the failure to get the others to see reason in these last few months.“It will still take much time to form a true alliance and even longer to build an army with the strength to defeat Sauron.” Glorfindel said as I simply smile with renewed faith and energy.“We will. I have belief in the others to see how vital this alliance is. Sauron needs to be defeated once and for all.” I replied before reaching forward to squeeze his hand and smiling at my father “There is strength in the numenoreans and Dunedain yet.”My father seemed to smile in amusement at my own excitement. I knew that my true self was shining bright at the information and confirmation of Anarion strength to withstand Sauron’s attacks. Gondor was far from peaceful, but the people of Gondor were proving to be strong. Even with the aid of Umbar and the Black Numenoreans, Sauron did not have the strength to easily defeat the new kingdom. Sauron wouldn’t give up, but I felt assurance in the knowledge that between Gondor’s strength, the potential alliance, and the Blue Wizards preventing him from gaining allies in the east that Sauron would learn that he lacked the strength to win against a united front.I didn’t care if all that I past would pause and look at me. I knew that my happiness was shining brightly for all to see. I had been expecting foreboding news or even news of Anarion’s fall when I had seen Glorfindel standing and awaiting our return. Glorfindel watched me with a soft look and a gentle smile as he walked by my side. My father was amused and seemed lightened by my own joy in this moment. I knew that I would again hear news of Sauron’s vile deeps and the losses in battle, but I simply relished the confirmation that there was still hope despite the strength that he had gathered. I felt Glorfindel grasp my hand and hold it gently as we walked along the path to the palace. There was a peace that filled me as the worries faded away. In this moment, I couldn’t see anything in the future but the defeat of my greatest enemy. There was nothing that couldn’t be achieved with my father, Glorfindel, and the others at my side.
~Year 3430 of the Second Age
There was silence throughout the chamber as the final call for those joining the alliance was announced. It had taken weeks of arguing amongst each other to get to this point. If there were those that had doubts to forming an alliance, there was little that would change there mind in the coming days. I looked around the room at all those that had traveled here at the request of my father. Most of those within this room I considered to be friends from the years that I had known them. I had spent a great deal of time among each of their kingdoms and knew them to be fair leaders. I also knew that not all of them would lead their people into war when there was still so much unknown about Sauron.“The elves of Rivendell have long since served the High-King of Lindon and shall do so again against this common foe. Rivendell will join this alliance.” Lord Elrond said in a way that cut through the silence as there was little doubt that the leaders of this alliance would be my father and Elendil.“Long have I placed the well-being of my people above all other matters in the realms. The elves of Greenwood the Great have no quarrel with Sauron. I will not demand them to march against a foe in a war that is not our to fight.” King Oropher explained as I felt my heart ache at his choice to not join the alliance despite how dangerous Sauron had proven to other elven kingdoms.“I have sent my people to your aid against Sauron before and yet, he remains. I will not ask the elves of Lothlorien to march for an alliance when the leaders could not defeat him when granted the opportunity in the past.” Lord Amdir commented as I fought the urge to speak out against him for speaking of something that was outside all of our control and placing blame on us for failing.“Sauron is a darkness that must be plunged from these lands. The dwarfs of Khazah-dum will march to war with you.” Durin the IV said seriously as I drew in a shaky breath of relief at him joining when I had been unsure that he would with more persuasion.“Very well.” My father murmured as he looked at everyone in the room “The Alliance has been formed.”“Let this be the Last Alliance of Elves and Men as we will not stop until Sauron is defeated.” I murmured before looking at Oropher and Amdir “I do so hope that you look within yourself and think on the strength of your people. I do understand your reasons for not joining the alliance against Sauron. I know the darkness of his spirit and he will set his sights on your people. This fight may not have been yours as it has been ours for centuries, but Sauron will not stop until all the lands are covered in darkness and all beings bow to his power. Even you cannot alone withstand the full might of Sauron as he continues to gather forces to conquer.”Lord Amdir barely spared me a glance at my words before leaving the room. I knew that there was little hope that he would willing choose to fight. Amdir judged my father and our kin quite harshly. I had hoped that perhaps my friends in Lothlorien would be able to persuade him in time to aid us and send forces to join the alliance. If nothing else, I image that my friends would join themselves. Although, I could never quite grasp what Galadriel or Celeborn would do. Celeborn’s strength and wisdom as a skilled warrior would alone aid us greatly in the coming war.King Oropher gave me a thoughtful look before nodding and departing from the room. I knew that Oropher was rather protective of his people. The king and the elves of Greenwood the Great had no experience with fighting against Sauron. I had no knowledge that Sauron was even aware of the elves that dwelled there. Unlike the elves of Lothlorien that aided us before and revealed themselves to Sauron, the elves of Greenwood the Great had stayed within their realm and avoided any altercations. I hope that Oropher will truly think on his decision and join the alliance before the war was upon us all.“Long have you been a friend to my people.” Elendil murmured as he looked at my father with eyes shining with respect and gave a slight bow “I have been most thankful for the friendship between our people and you willingness to aid us in our time of plight.”“As am I to have long considered you and your kin valuable allies.” My father replied as I smiled gently knowing that my father always had faith in the decedents of Elrond’s brother.“There has never been an oath sworn between our people. I stand here now to pledge an oath before these witnesses and the great Eru Illuvatar to bind our alliance so it may serve to bond our people together in friendship forevermore.” Elendil said as I stiffened, surprised since Elendil was the only one even permitted to call up Eru as a witness and Oaths were not made lightly.“I shall hear your oath.” My father replied with a serious look on his face as I a shift in the air and knew that this was a turning point in history.“Hear now all peoples who bow not to the Shadow in the East, by the gift of the High King Gil-Galad we have come to dwell in the land that he names Eriador, and therefore I vow in my own name and on behalf of the Great People of the West and the Dunedain that between us and the Great Elves of Lindon that there shall be friendship forever: their enemies shall be our enemies, their need shall be our need, and whatsoever evil, or threat, or assault may come upon them we will aid them to the utmost end of our strength. This vow shall descend to my heirs, all such as may come after me in our new land, and let them keep it in faith unbroken, lest the Shadow fall upon them and they become accursed. This oath shall stand in memory of the glory of the Land of the Star, and of the faith of Elendil the Faithful, in the keeping of those who sit upon the thrones of the West and of the One who is above all thrones forever.” Elendil said with all the authority as the High King of the Dunedain and each word was as binding as the last causing a shiver to run through me."This oath has been heard and shall stand in memory the Noldor, Sindar, and all Elves that dwell in Forlindon and Harlindon and of the High King of the Noldor and the King of the High Elves, in the keeping of those who sit upon the thrones of the Elves and of the One who is above all thrones forever." My father replied with ease and with power in his voice as he finished the binding oath with one of his own.There was silence that filled the chamber once more as the air shift. Those without ability to see beyond could no view the power between the High King of Elves and the High King of the Dunedain bind the oath to each other. I felt a strangeness run through me as I was bound by the oath of the Heir to the throne of Lindon and all the titles my father possesses. As Eru Illuvatar had been called upon, the oath would not be broken and would be honored by all descendants of both bloodlines forevermore. I glanced at Isildur with a small smile at the look of awe on his face and knew that he also understood the binding power of the oath with the slight touch of Eru as the witness. It was certainly a moment that even I would not forget in the future. I glanced at Lord Cirdan, Lord Elrond, Lord Glorfindel, and even Durin the IV knowing that these were the leaders that would build an army that could finally banish Sauron from these lands forever. There was hope yet for all people of these lands.
~Time Lapse: Same Year
I looked at the soldiers gathering in preparation to depart from Lindon. My heart was heavy in the realization that many here would not return to this place. I had learned that there was a cost to war against Sauron. There was little doubt that many of my people would pass through the halls of Awaiting into Aman before Sauron was defeated. I sighed as I felt a calming presence behind me and turned to find Glorfindel looking at me with a gentle expression of understanding. I gave him a smile to reassure him of my own well-being despite the fact that we would be marching out in preparation for war in a matter of hours.“Do not fear the outcome of this war or those that willing serve you, my light.” Glorfindel murmured as he placed a hand on my cheek.“How can I not when I know that my people are sacrificing themselves simply because my father and I requested it of them?” I queried softly as I leaned into his comforting touch.“These elves are marching to war and known that should death greet them that it shall be a worthy sacrifice.” Glorfindel explained as he leaned forward to kiss my forehead “There is little for us to fear of death.”“You cannot say that as if I am not aware of the weight that remains on even your spirit from your time in the Halls of Awaiting. You were reborn but were changed from passing through such a place.” I protested honestly as Glorfindel softened further in understanding.“I will not deny that my time in the halls had changed me.” Glorfindel whispered as he wrapped his arms around and pulled me close “I will also not deny that even if granted another chance to prevent my death that I would make the same decision. There is honor is a warriors death and fear of death has no place in war.”“I know.” I breathed out against his chest as I logically knew that he was correct “I simply wish that I could spare my people from more darkness.”“You forgot that even surrounded by darkness that these people, me, and all others of the lands will see you shining brightly. They march to war and shall not lose sight of you as we seek to destroy Sauron once and for all.” Glorfindel said passionately as I swallowed thickly knowing that it always came down to my light.“And if I shall fail?” I questioned him softly as Glorfindel tightened his arms on me as if distressed by the very notion.“You shall not fall to Sauron. We will survive this war, my light.” Glorfindel murmured as I immediately went to protest that he couldn’t promise that “I am rather looking forward to the end of this war.”“It hasn’t even started yet.” I said as Glorfindel drew back enough to tilt my head to look up at him.“And yet, I plan out our future for when it ends.” Glorfindel explained as I blinked up at him in surprise “When you succeed in defeating Sauron, we shall return here, and I will request your hand in marriage.”“That is rather bold of you.” I commented in slight amusement that he wouldn’t just ask now.“I shall never hold the affection or fondness that I have for you for any other. I wish to bond our true selves together and call you my wife before the realms.” Glorfindel murmured as his finger ran across my lip as I smiled up at him in happiness.“I doubt that any would be surprised by such.” I said honestly, knowing that even my father was aware of the deep affection between Glorfindel and myself “You need not wait until the end of the war to request me to become your betrothed.”“I had hoped such.” Glorfindel commented with a smirk as I tilted my head when he looked behind me and I glanced to see my father standing there “I approached your father in hopes of requesting your hand and permission to take you as my wife at the end of the war.”“I cautioned against it and request the betrothed wait until Sauron has been defeated.” My father said as I continued to stare at him in shock that he would deny me this “Lord Glorfindel and I decided that the choice is ultimately yours.”“I wish to accept the betrothal.” I said immediately without hesitation and my father frowned slightly “I am aware that betrothals and marriages occur in times of peace. Let my betrothal to Lord Glorfindel serve as my hope in the darkest of days to see me through the end of this war.”“I cannot hardly deny a request of the heart.” My father murmured as he stepped forward to touch my cheek “If this is your truest desire then I shall not prevent the betrothal and accept Lord Glorfindel’s place at your side.”“Thank you, father.” I whispered as I leaned forward to kiss his cheek in thanks.“Your happiness matters most to me. It seems that Celebrimbor was wiser than I had given him credit for.” My father commented before reaching in his cloak and pulling free beautiful ring “Long before his passing from these lands, he made this for you to present to your future husband.”“He was always the best craft smith of our kind.” I murmured as I took the ring from my father while recognizing the uniqueness of the piece.“Indeed.” Glorfindel commented as I turned to him with a smile and paused at the ring in his hand “I commissioned Celebrimbor to craft your betrothal ring before his passing. He handed me this as he had already made the rings.”“He always said that the only rings he would make for me would be the ones for my marriage.” I said with an air of fondness for my dear friend as Glorfindel slid the ring on my finger.“He held onto his oath.” Glorfindel replied with a bright smile that paled in comparison to how brightly his true self shined as I placed the ring on his finger that would show our formal betrothal to each other.I could only smile as my own true self shined brighter than I had ever seen. I glanced at my father who was watching with an air of fondness and sadness. I knew that in this moment he wished that my mother could be here. I reached out to squeeze his hand knowing that when we defeated Sauron that perhaps she would be permitted to come and attend the wedding. In a matter of moments, we would all be marching towards war. I could not see what the outcome would be, but I had hope for the future. A great battle was ahead of me and Sauron would certainly go down without a fight. The plans stretched out in my mind of the army that would amass a force unlike any other alliance in history.I took a breath knowing that our forces would march to Amon Sul and join the forces assembled by Elendil. From there, the combined forces would march from Weathertop to Rivendell. Durin’s forces from Khazah-dum were to meet us there along with the forces that Elrond was providing. Rivendell was the place were the leaders of the allied army would train to ensure that we could win against Sauron. Imlardis would serve as the camp for many years before we set out to meet Sauron in battle. Until that time, Anarion would need to hold Gondor and provide us with the vital information needed for the war. There were so many elements to account for, but the greatest leaders of the elves, dwarves, and men were bond together in a single mission. We would not fail. We could not fail.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Chapter

~Siladhiel Point of View~

~Year 3433 of the Second Age
As an immortal being, three years should feel like barely a moment in time. These last three years in preparation for war had felt much longer. Our allied army was strong and well-equipped for battle. I knew that each had been trained by the best warriors we had, me included. Each wore the detailed strong armor that was crafted by the most skilled smiths in Lindon. The very ones that I once rescued and secured from Eregion before the fall to Sauron. The very smiths that had assisted in crafting the rings gave Sauron a deadly and dangerous weapon that he wished to use to conquer the entire world.I ran my fingers gently along the mane of my trusted stead. Sidhoidu shifted on her hooves in a way that spoke of her own anxiousness. I could understand all the emotions surging through the air as we prepared for our departure from Rivendell. I felt rather overwhelmed with the melancholy of my own soul in this moment. There was so much that this moment would lead to. This was the start of a journey that would shape the future of these lands and the people throughout the realm. The preparations still did not feel to be enough for such a monumental task. A single moment that would end with either the defeat of Sauron or his victory over this alliance. Even I could not be assured of what the outcome would be.“Little light.” My father murmured to me as he placed a comforting hand on my shoulder, and I glanced at him.“Father.” I whispered in return while feeling that even raising my voice would drastically change the feeling of those around me.“Speak of the thoughts that weigh so heavy upon your spirit, daughter.” My father directed me as I fought the urge to wince at how well he could tell how deeply this was affecting me. Nothing ever went overlooked or unknown for long to my father’s wise eyes.“I fear that I cannot put it into words, father.” I said gently to him in a whisper while ensuring to not be easily overheard from the soldiers around us. Yet, it caused his frown to deepen in a way that spoke of his own worry of his daughter over the soldiers.“Do not fear for yourself, little light. You shall not fall to this foe. No darkness could claim a light as bright as you.” My father assured me softly as he reached out and encircled me in his arms in a comforting hug. My heart seized at the comfort that one could only find within their father’s arms.“It is not myself that I fear for, father.” I replied as I breathed in his comforting scent and relaxed against the safety that I always felt in my father’s strong presence.“I cannot not quell your fears if I do not know the fears you feel, little light.” My father said as he looked down at me with a soft look and I glanced away to look at the mix of warriors that formed together to fight our common foe.“So many will not return.” I whispered after a long moment as my father softened as he understood what was weighing on my mind.“All here have chosen this as their path and their fate for that choice is not for us to fight against. They each believe that their very lives may be worth the cost to defeat Sauron and his army.” My father explained gently as I sighed heavily knowing the truth in his words “You cannot allow yourself to focus on the potential deaths on the battlefield. You can only ensure that you lead them and give them hope on even the darkest of days. Those that serve us cannot see you falter.”“Have you ever faltered?” I asked him softly knowing that while I had seen battle with my own eyes, that it paled in comparison to the experiences of my father and his tales as a warrior.“I have, little light.” My father murmured as I couldn’t contain the surprise knowing that my father was often seen as such a strong and wise leader that never appeared to falter “I have wavered and questioned my own decisions. To lead, you must question yourself often to see the mistakes that have been made and attempt to make better decisions in the future. You too will learn this when you lead our kingdom. You will learn to accept that you can waver but shall never be permitted to break from the weight of being a leader. If you waver, none must view you in such a moment of weakness.”“As long as you are there to assist me, I shall never break.” I replied to him with a feeling of greater understanding for my father as a sad smile found its way on my lips at how heavy the weight must be on his shoulders.“I shall always be at your side.” My father assured me before glancing over at the soldiers “Now, let us finish our preparations. Our department is imminent.”“Of course, father. I shall ensure those that are departing with me are prepared to leave.” I commented as the rays of the rising sun started hitting the gleaming metal of his armor in a way that made him appear more valor than elf in that moment.“May Eru Iluvatar watch your path until we meet again, little light.” My father whispered as he placed a kiss on my forehead in offer of his blessing.“May Eru Iluvatar light your path as you lead our soldiers down this dangerous path, father.” I said as the slight surge of power was felt between us before he turned away to speak with Lord Elrond.I drew in a shaky breath as I turned to Sidhoidu once more to finish packing my supplies for the journey. The soldiers were quick to listen and follow when I called Glorfindel to my side once more to march. Together, we would lead our portion of the army through a separate section of the Misty Mountains. We would rejoin our forces across the mountain passes before marching towards Sauron. This was aimed at ensuring that Sauron wouldn’t learn of the full might of the forces that were gathered against him. The hope was that he would be ill-prepared to meet such a force in battle and that would allow the war to end swiftly without allowing him more time to gain more allies against us once he learned our true might in battle.I held hope that this strategy would work as Sauron, even without a vast number of allies, were quite large and had proven to be effective in battle in the past. All I could do as I led the soldiers that I was responsible for leading in battle was to send a prayer for blessings in this endeavor to Eru Iluvatar. A prayer that he may watch over those within this special alliance and aid us in finally banishing Sauron from these lands. I could not know if he would place his favor on these warriors. I could not tell if the future would reveal our victory. I was blind beyond the glimpse of blood and loss that were revealed to me. All I could do was hold onto my father’s word and lead these soldiers as the leader he himself had taught me to be.
~Year 3434 of the Second Age
The journey through the Misty Mountains was quiet despite the feelings of melancholy throughout my troops. There was not a foe to slay nor a whisper of Sauron throughout the path that we had taken. I did not relax until we reached the provided position and confirmed that all the others had also arrived without running into any force they could not defeat. The hope that I felt at seeing all present and unharmed only increased at the sight of the two leaders that I held little hope of joining the alliance after three years of silence. Yet, Oropher and Amdir had assembled their own forces to provide even more warriors to the alliance against Sauron. I have never seen any true potential that these leaders would set aside their deep seeded hatred to join us on the battlefield.The hope was dashed at the sight of their unequipped warriors that were not prepared to meet such a foe in battle. The response from both Kings was very disheartening when my father offered them armor and weapons. Their swift denial shot a pang of sadness through me at the lives they would lose as a result. My father simply nodded quickly and did not fight their desires to not be fitted with our armor. Glorfindel was silent at my side as he placed a hand on my shoulder. The action silenced me from speaking out against the decision as I so deeply desired to do so. A leader bears the weight of their own decisions.“I shall command my own forces.” Oropher said to my father with an air of arrogance despite the seriousness of the situation ahead of us all.“As shall I.” Amdir replied to my father before turning from my father to separate his warriors from the rest.I sighed deeply at the disrespect displayed towards the greatest of elvish leaders. I could not deny that at least Oropher had some experience with leading warriors into battle. Yet, he had never learned to put the well-being of a soldier above his pride. It was quite clear about his actions as his warriors followed their king’s led to the other side of the field. My father simply stared for a long moment before carrying on. Yet, when the sun fell and the darkness set in, I could see the worry that lingered in his eyes. I approached him and stood at his side when I sensed the unease that settled around him.“What is it that causes so much unrest within you, father?” I asked him, knowing that I was one of the few that would even recognize it.“I find that there is little relief with the added forces from Oropher and Amdir.” My father replied after a moment of deep thought, and I tilted my head to the side in thought myself.“Do you not find the additional warriors an improvement? You taught me that even a single soldier can alter the course of the battle.” I said with a confused frown finding its way onto my lip and my father glanced at the side where the newest members of the alliance had settled.“A single soldier can sway the battle in a way that leads to it being lost as much as it could bring victory.” My father offered as his eyes seemed to narrow on Oropher “There is nothing but mistrust between us and these new allies.”“Perhaps time will tell another story. The rest had bonded through the years with the focus of our common goal. Oropher, Amdir, and their forces may learn to trust.” I murmured after a long moment as my father seemed to stiffen even more.“I cannot lead that which will not follow.” My father commented as I felt clarity of the issue surge through me.“You were the one that taught me that we cannot force anyone to follow us into battle. It must be their decision alone. They have made the first action to come here despite our shared history. Perhaps, they will learn to follow your guidance. Either way, the result is not on your shoulders.” I assured him as I leaned against him, hoping that my presence would calm him.“I do not know how to feel about how often you turn my words against me, little light.” My father murmured with a smirk as I chuckled in amusement as the light returned to his eyes.“You have only yourself to blame for that, father.” I joked in return as he chuckled lowly, and the rest of the tension left his shoulders.I knew that my father would again reflect on the additional alliance with the elf leaders that so clearly showed their distrust and disgust with us. All I could do was hope that this moment would be enough. Our people would need my father focused on the coming days. In the morning, we would depart towards Dagorlad. Our path could cross with Sauron’s forces at any moment as we entered lands that he roamed so freely. We were lucky when making our way through the mountains. I doubted that we could count on that luck to remain as we journeyed closer to his stronghold. I could only hope that Oropher and Amdir would aid the battles ahead instead of causing disaster for us all with their influence.
~Time Lapse: Same Year
I felt my heart ache at the shocking and devastating sight before me. The outcome of the battle that had taken place here for many moons. There were bodies scattered throughout the entirety of the marshes. Many of the bodies belonged to the elves of Lothlorien and Greenwood. Many were the direct cause of their leaders refusing to follow the command of the Nolder Leaders that were charged with leading the battle. They had called the charge too early and against the plan. The result was the devastating loss of life that could have been prevented if they had waited until the rest of us were prepared. I felt like sick to my stomach at the stench of death in the air and the stark reminder of how costly this war would be.I drew in a breath when I realized that among the fallen were King Oropher and King Amdir. Their own folly had cost them their own lives. I still felt it was too steep a price to be paid considering the distraught sadness on the faces of their sons that had somehow managed to survive the brutal battle. I could only hope that this tragedy would not allow all the resentment to continue to grow between our people. There were so few of them who had survived the battle, but it would last in their memories for the rest of time. I glanced to my side at my father standing tall and felt thankful that he had not fallen in this battle. I cared not for the burden that both Thranduil and Amroth would carry from this moment forward.“The deaths that occurred here were unnecessary. Oropher and Amdir’s foolish resentment cost their people their lives. There was no honor in these deaths.” Elrond commented as we stared at the sickening sight before us.“Those that made the sacrifice here may not have been warriors at heart, but their deaths will not go unanswered.” I whispered as I watched the reaction of both Thranduil and Amroth to their father’s deaths.“There are too few that remain. Thranduil and Amroth will return to their kingdoms with what little remains of their people.” My father said with a saddened look as he took account of the toll this battle had taken on us all.“This was through no fault of your own. We had warned Oropher and Amdir that their people were ill equipped for war. They refused our offer to lend them the armor and weapons due to it’s Noldor influence and creation.” I whispered as I reached out to touch my father’s arm “They led the charge against your command to hold. This tragedy is their burden alone to bear.”“The price of this victory was too high.” My father muttered before shaking his head and walking off in a way that told him that he needed a moment to himself.“Go prepare the troops to move to the next camp. We will find no rest here.” I directed Elrond and Glorfindel seeing as Elendil was directing his own troops.“What of the injured?” Glorfindel queried as I glanced at those that survived the war but did not appear to have the ability to continue.“Create a convoy and assign a few of our healthy soldier to led them to the safety of Rivendell.” I said as I looked at the weariness that some where feeling “Any that are weary and you do not feel should continue on in this war, send them as well.”“Very well, my princess.” Glorfindel murmured as he placed a kiss to my forehead and giving me a sad smile before approaching a group of injured a short distance from us.“Amartheil.” I whispered as I approached the elleth that I considered to be a close friend and had served me for many years after I rescue her when Eregion fell.“Princess.” Amartheil said with a slight bow as I softened at the deep weariness that I recognized there.“There will be a party of elves forming to return to Rivendell. I am sending you with them.” I directed gently as Amartheil’s eyes went wide and she shook her head.“No, princess, I wish to remain and serve you.” Amartheil protested as I reached out to touch her shoulder with a sad smile.“You have served me and Lindon faithfully for many centuries. I am honored to know you and long have I considered you to be my friend.” I assured her before grabbing her hand and squeezing it “I sense the weariness in your spirit. I do not wish for you to tarnish yourself when you need peace. Please join the travelers and those that remain of Greenwood and Lothlorien when they depart. Do this for me.”“As you request, princess.” Amartheil whispered with a slight bow before pausing to smile sadly “I found that I lack a warrior’s heart. I am thankful to serve such an understanding princess.”“Thranduil.” I said as he was nearing me, and I was pleased to see he did not stare at me with anger.“My people will have no part of this war.” Thranduil replied seriously as I softened slightly at him in understanding.“I expected as much and do not judge you. You must see to the well-being of your people. I feel deep sorrow for the losses you have suffered. I shall ensure that their sacrifice did not occur in vain.” I commented as I reached out to touch his shoulder.“I have upmost faith that you will not stop until the vermin that is Sauron is defeated.” Thranduil murmured as I gave a stern nod before catching the way that Amartheil was staring at the new king.“King Thranduil, this is my dear friend Amartheil. She will be in the party of elves that I am sending to join you and Amroth’s people on your return to your kingdoms.” I explained as Thranduil gave her a stern nod.“It is hardly necessary to send aid. They will prove more vital in battle.” Thranduil commented as I shook my head slightly in denial.“I do not mean to appear to send them as protection. I wish to grant those that are injured or weary in spirit to return to the safety and peace of Rivendell. There will be a few of our skilled to assist with protecting the injured, but they will return on their own time to the rest of us.” I offered honestly as Thranduil gave another stern nod.“Very well. Come, Lady Amartheil, I wish to depart this place as quickly as possible.” Thranduil demanded before pausing to turn to me “I do so hope that the next we meet that it is a more joyous occasion.”“I do as well.” I said with a slight smile and a deep sadness in my heart “Peace be with you, dear friend.”“May the light of Eru shine brightly upon you and guide you in the darkness of this war.” Thranduil replied before turning and walking away with an air of calm that was shocking despite his loss.I took a breath watching them both fade into the crowd and knew that it would be many years before I saw either of them again. This war would not end swiftly, and much would change during the course of it. Even now, I knew that those that remained behind would begin to bury those lost in this place in the land outside the marsh. It was only proper to bury them, and no one could expect thus from the people that were most deeply affected by the losses. I glanced around in an attempt to locate Amroth and was surprised to see the look on Celeborn’s face. I knew at that moment that Celeborn would not be returning to Lothlorien and Galadriel with the others. As if sensing my stare, Celeborn glanced at me with a nod, and I gave my dear friend a thankful smile. Celeborn would fight at our side just as he had done in the past.
~Time Lapse: Same Year
I knew that we were approaching the dwelling that Sauron used long before I came within view of the black gates that I had heard about. The entire area had succumbed to a darkness that only Sauron’s evil could cause. The corruption of the lands revealed that Sauron had amassed a great deal of power. A power that made my true self shrink in on itself for a moment in unease. My stead shifts and whines as the thrill sound of Sauron’s army was heard as we drew closer. The sound of the orcs of Mordor and his allies could be heard in the otherwise quiet air.The stillness did nothing but remind me that this would be a hard-fought battle. One that would cost a great deal of lives to succeed. There was little doubt that we had to succeed. I knew the future if the alliance failed to secure the gate and conquer Mordor that lay within. Inside there was going to be a great army consisting of the many allies that Sauron still managed to gain that consisted of the Easterlings, Haradrim, and black Numenoreans. I ran my fingers through my stead’s mane as Glorfindel and My father stopped on each of my sides. It was the sight of my father that eased my true self and returned warmth to my body.My father looked like every bit of a legendary warrior and High-King as he stood in front of the thousands of warriors behind us. I had no doubt that they were taking as much, if not more, strength from him as I was at this moment. It was a strength that we would all need in the coming years. I had no belief that this battle would be short lived and would instead take this alliance several years to breach and overtake Mordor. There was too much darkness and evil that lay within. An evil that would aid Sauron in fighting against us. The sight of my father, Elendil, Isildur, Elrond, Anarion, Cirdan, and myself would provide strength to all those that look upon us to successfully lead us in battle.I took a breath as the fading light shined off of my father’s spear. The gleam of his armor and the hard look on his face would be my own source of strength throughout the battle. As long as my father remained at my side, there was nothing I could not withstand. I looked to my other side to see Glorfindel looking at me with soft eyes. There was no way that Sauron would succeed with these two warriors on my side. I would banish him from these lands and cleanse this world of this filth.“The darkness runs deep in these lands.” My father murmured as I nodded in agreement “Do not allow this darkness to tamper your own light, little light.”“I shall never allow Sauron to touch me, even my true self.” I assured him as I shivered at the thought of Sauron’s power reaching out towards me.“Sauron will be watching the battle. He will not meet us in battle until we claim Mordor for the alliance.” Elendil commented as I nodded in agreement thinking of how cowardly that actually was.“The battle for the black gates will not be easily won.” My father commented as he pulled his spear and glanced back to our army “Take the gate! Leave none standing in our way!”My father charged forward on his horse with a sharp command of our forces. I didn’t hesitate to free my weapon to begin the approach to the dark gates that I had heard about for so long. The shifting of dark power was felt as his eyes turned towards our approach. The great army stood between us and our goal of conquering the gates that were needed to gain entry to Mount Doom. With a sharp warrior’s cry, I met my first orc in battle and cut him down. This was just the beginning of the battle that would determine the fate of these lands. This was just the siege of Barad-dur and it would either end with our deaths or Sauron’s.
~Year 3440 of the Second age
My body ached with tiredness as the years of constant battle took its toll on my body and spirit. I felt my heart break at the thought of the most recent loss. Anarion had fallen in battle after leading our forces for six years as a source of strength for all that fought at his side. It was a devastating loss and one that I carried within me. Anarion was a dear friend, a great warrior, and a strong leader for his people. Anarion’s death had been the first among the leaders, but no where near the first in this war against Sauron. No, it had taken thousands of deaths to secure the Gates and break into Mordor to begin fighting within Sauron’s stronghold.It was slow moving and I had long since grown tired of fighting. It was common for all those fighting this war to feel weary at times and find rest whenever possible. The elves fought longer and harder due to the lack of need to sleep in comparison to our allies in battle. The battlefield had long since become soaked with the blood of those that I considered friends and allies. There was never going to be a way to cleanse these lands of the evil that had taken place here. No, these lands would belong to the dead after the war had ended and Sauron was defeated.I sighed happily as Glorfindel’s fingers twisted in my hair in order to braid it after I had taken time to cleanse it of the black blood. It was the small moments in time that I took with him that calmed my spirit. I smiled at my father as he approached as well as Elendil took over leading the next edge of battle for the alliance. My father surprised me when he simply pulled me into his arms without a hug and held me tightly in his hold. I breathed in his scent as I took the moment of comfort that could truly only be found in the arms of a father. Glorfindel gave both of us a soft look of understanding but remained silent to not interrupt the moment.“I cannot speak for the sorrow that Elendil must feel over the loss of his son. I am overjoyed to see you well and unharmed after the most recent battle.” My father whispered to me when I gave him a questioning look.“It is a loss that we will all remember and feel. Anarion was a good man.” I murmured in return as my father nodded and took a step away from me.“How do you fare?” My father asked me as I tried to give him a smile despite knowing that it came off as more sad and tired than happy.“As well as one at war can be. Especially when this war does appear that it shall never end and will cause a great deal more loss for us all.” I replied easily as I reached out grasp his hand and squeeze it “There is far too much loss as it is.”“I fear that it may take more time to reach Mount Doom and draw him from his tower.” My father hissed out slightly as I could see his frustration clearly at the fact that Sauron was such a coward that he had still not taken to the battlefield.“I fear that even my light cannot withstand much more of this darkness.” I whispered after a long moment and my father gave me a soft look before leaning forward to kiss my forehead.“There is hope for us all as long as you shine on the battlefield. You must remember that this darkness cannot and will not survive in the presence of your light, little light.” My father murmured as he pulled away and I gave him another smile “You outshine us all, little light, and will lead us to victory.”“I do so hope so, father.” I commented while wishing that I could have the same faith that my father did “I love you, father.”“And I love you, little light.” My father replied before placing another kiss on my forehead and stepped away to glance between Glorfindel and I with a smirk “Now, take a few more moments before returning to the battlefield. The people gain strength from the both of you battling beside each other.”“Let us all eat together before we are expected to return.” I replied with a bright smile knowing that these little moments mean the world to me during these dark times.My father did not argue for once and took the time to sit with both of us. Despite being surrounded by darkness and the battle raging a short distance away, I watched the two that held every part of me laugh and joke for a short time. My father’s laugh rang in the air as the soldiers around smiled at the sound. I could picture a future beyond this moment when the war was finally over. I could see this little glimpse of happiness showing all of returning to Lindon and spending time planning the bonding ceremony. I could see endless days of exploring the lands, taking rides, having meals together, and singing amongst each other. I could not wait for the day that Sauron was gone, and we could all return to a peaceful existence.
~Year 3441 of the Second age
I felt my entire body stiffened as I felt the power shift on the battlefield long before I saw the armor in the distance. I had long since given up using any weapons besides my swords due to how slick my hands were with blood. The alliance was so close to conquering the mountain and it was clear that Sauron’s army had been weakened after seven years of battles. We had suffered great casualties in the war, but our strength remained, and we fought hard against him. It seems that Sauron had sensed the same thing that I had realized not that long ago. The alliance was going to win this war. Sauron’s forces were not great enough to continue fighting for much longer. It had brought Sauron to the battlefield after seven years of hiding in his tower.I stiffened as I looked around the battlefield to look at my father a short distance away from me. It was a sight of darkened and pointed armor approaching behind him. Sauron was heading straight towards my father and King Elendil. My father shifts his focus to Sauron as he confirmed the thought that just passed through my head. I moved in their direction with an unsettled feeling in my stomach as I sliced through the enemies in my way. Every fiber of my being was screaming of the danger to him as Glorfindel reached him first. I felt as if everything around me slowed as Sauron began to fight my father and Elendil. I felt my mouth open in a scream when I saw what Sauron planned to do.“Father!” I yelled as I fought harder to get to him when a burning hand touch my father’s chest as Sauron burning him “No!”My father’s eyes found me as Sauron took the spear from my father’s hand. My father was powerless as the heated touch that was deadly to us as Sauron was suddenly pushed away from my father by Glorfindel. My eyes shifted as Sauron grabbed Glorfindel by the neck with a heated touch and I screamed again. Glorfindel’s eyes found mine with a look of acceptance as sounds of anquish tore from my lips at the sight. I was too far away to do anything to intervene. I could not stop this from happening in front of me.‘My heart remains yours, little light. May whatever strength that remains within me pass to you.’ Glorfindel’s voice rang in my mind as the light started to fade from his eyes.“No!” I screamed as the reality of what was happening struck me.I felt my heart shatter as the last of the light that I had cherished faded from few. Sauron tossed Glorfindel’s body to the side as if he was nothing before turning to face King Elendil. My heart ached and pounded as my father stumbled from his own injuries. I saw him stumble and his hand go over his chest as he tried to continue fighting through his own injuries. I felt my eyes blur as I watched Sauron hit him in the chest once more. My feet quickened as I finally reached his side to stop his fall. I looked at the burning hole in my father’s chest feeling overwhelmingly panicked at the sight. There was a clang of armor as my father fell to his knees and gave me a look that spoke of so much in this moment.“I don’t know how to heal this…” I said in panic as I tried to stop this from happening “Tell me what to do! I can’t! Father! Please!”“Little Light.” My father whispered with a look of acceptance that had me letting out a sob “There is no healing this. You must take up the fight. Banish him from these lands.”“No, there must be a way.” I pleaded as I tried to hold him up as my father’s colder touch was felt on my cheek “Please.”“Take joy that I shall rejoin your mother and shall see you away in Valinor, little light.” My father murmured before kissing my forehead and I felt the passing of power “What strength that remains, I pass to you.”“No. No. No.” I screamed as my father slumped against me with no power within him and no life.I felt a surge of anger overtake me as I laid my father’s body and the ground. I turned my attention back to the back and saw that in my distraction that Elendil had fallen to Sauron. There was a rage in me that I had never felt before at the sight of Sauron. I felt my hands grasp at my father’s spear as Isildur took us his father’s broken sword. There was something broken within me at what Sauron had taken from me. I stood with the weapon in hand and charged Sauron with everything I had left to give. The spear struck his armor just as Isildur cut the ring from Sauron’s finger. The next thing I knew was the backlash of power through me in the air and to the ground as Sauron’s physical form was destroyed.I stayed on the ground as the silence took over the battlefield. My body ached and my heart shattered as Sauron’s power was stripped from his power. The physical form that had been the cost of wielding such a powerful weapon. The metal of his armor gone under the weight of power lost when Isildur separated him from the ring. I closed my eyes as the thousands of years that I fought Sauron washed over me. I could not feel as if this was a victory. No, it had come at too great a price. I felt nothing but grief at this moment as I looked at the fallen bodies of my father and Glorfindel. I felt Lord Elrond and Lord Cirdan at my side.“It is over.” Lord Elrond commented as I gave a nod in agreement, and I looked at Isildur.“Take Isildur to the mountain to destroy the ring. I have not the strength to enter such a dark place.” I directed as I glanced at the ground unable to look at all the bodies around us.“Very well, Queen Siladhiel, I shall see it done.” Lord Elrond replied as I winced and looked at him feeling betrayed at the title.“Princess…” I said as I shook my head sharply “My father is king.”“The people need their leader, Princess. You can grieve after your orders have been delivered.” Lord Cirdan whispered beside me as I saw our people watching me on the ground and with great effort I stood.“Prepare my father’s body and Glorfindel’s body to be returned to Linden. I cannot bare leaving them in this place.” I replied as I forced myself to hide my grief in this moment “Assist with Elendil’s body as well. His people will wish to lay him to rest.”“Of course, princess.” Cirdan said as I handed Lord Elrond my father’s spear with a shaky hand.“Let this be displayed in your kingdom in honor of him. I cannot bear to see it.” I whispered as he took the spear that still shined despite all the blood that it had seen these last years."I am honored to be entrusted with it in his memory." Elrond replied as he looked at the spear before turning away to approach Isildur.“I shall see to my duties. Return to Rivendell when Isildur destroys the ring. There is much that must be done.” I murmured before walking off as Cirdan prepared the bodies for transfer.I felt my heart and spirit ache with each step I took. I held onto the image of them in Vilanor. I would see them again when I was permitted to depart these lands and join them there. I would hold onto that promise and take care of the kingdom in honor of my father. I wished that the knowledge that they would be in undying lands eased the grief in my soul. Sauron was finally defeated but the cost of this war had been great. It was a weight that I would have to bear and would forever alter me from this moment on. There was no denying that darkness had touched me in this war. My light shined for my people as I prepared us all for our return to our lands. I would just be grateful to never again have to step foot on these lands or deal with Sauron ever again. I just longed for Glorfindel and my father at my side for the long-awaited journey home.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Chapter

~Siladhiel Point of View~

~Year 10 of the Third Age
There was a deep feeling of despair that settled over me as I was informed of the knowledge that was obtained. My entire body heaved at the anger and grief that was all consuming. I could hardly believe that this had been allowed to occur. I choked back the sob that was fighting to break free as I forced myself to look at Lord Cirdan. I felt a heart shattering grief and pure furious energy within me as I looked upon one of the advisors that I had trusted to see this task had been completed. There was no comfort or even fighting against the rage I felt at Lord Elrond for allowing Isildur to walk away from that mountain. I felt a surge of hatred for the first time at how Isildur could keep the ring for himself when so many had died to secure it for destruction. Among those dead were my own father and his. It was a price all for not due to Isildur’s own actions.I closed my eyes as another pulse of rage surge through me. For a decade this information had been kept from me. For ten years, there was no confirmation that the ring had been destroyed by my directive after that hard won battle. No, those that I had trusted sought to hide this information from me to allow me time to grieve and oversee the thousands of elves that had been touched by the darkness of war. The toll that it had taken on my people was drastic and it was all for nothing. All because Isildur had taken and claimed the ring. A ring that was now lost and dormant in a way that even I could not seek it out. No, Sauron’s power remained somewhere hidden in these lands and that meant that Sauron could very well rise to power once more if his remaining allies managed to get their hands on it.“I want scouts sent out immediately.” I demanded struggling between tears and rage as I looked to Lord Cirdan “I cannot allow the losses we have suffered to be for nothing. The ring must be found immediately, and I will take it to the mountain myself to see that it is destroyed before Sauron’s spirit finds a way back to this plain once more.”“Siladhiel...” Lord Cirdan murmured with understanding as I dug my nails into the wood of the table thinking of those that failed to see this task to completion.“I want Lord Elrond summoned to answer for this.” I hissed out as Lord Cirdan nodded in agreement with a flash of concern in his eyes “It was not his right to allow Isildur to keep the ring in his possession and to choose to keep the information from me. The ring needed to be toss into the fire and to hear that the ring was not destroyed is rather disheartening.”“Of course, I will send a messenger to Lord Elrond to summon him at once.” Lord Cirdan replied as I shook in barely concealed rage, and he placed a hand on my shoulder in silent comfort “I am sure that you know that Lord Elrond would never seek to cause harm. He is aware of the price that was paid to claim Sauron’s greatest weapon.”“Are we certain that Valandil does not have the ring?” I questioned Lord Cirdan after taking several deeps breaths to steady myself.“Quite certain.” Lord Cirdan confirmed as I closed my eyes to center my spirit if only for a single moment “Valandil has not sought to claim Gondor for himself. It seems unlikely if the ring was in his possession that he would not do so.”“What do you mean?” I asked in confusion knowing that the lands that my father relinquished had long since been part on their united Kingdom.“It seems that Meneldil will remain King of Gondor and Valandil will be the High King of Arnor. The kingdoms will remain separate and split apart.” Lord Cirdan offered as I furrowed my brows in confusion at that before shaking my head slightly to focus on the more important information.“Send spies to ensure that neither of the kings are in the possession of the ring.” I directed Lord Cirdan as I took a seat back at the desk and looked down at the map “Place more watches along our borders of Baranduin and Emyn Uial to ensure that their kingdom does not attempt to press upon our lands. I cannot afford to turn an eye away from Isildur’s actions and the result. These lands must be protected should Sauron rise once more before we can find the ring.”“It would be foolish for them to attempt such and there is still a lasting alliance between our kingdoms.” Lord Cirdan assured me as I nodded with a heavy sigh knowing that even now that I considered them to be dear friends “I shall inform the others of your decisions, Siladhiel, and establish a new watch as directed.”I waved him off and waited until the door closed before collapsing into the chair feeling my strength left me once more. I buried my head in my hands unable to wrap my head around the variety of overwhelming emotions that coursed through me. I had lost so much to see to the destruction of Sauron and that Ring. Now, there was a chance that Sauron could regain his strength, form, and even army in the coming years. I couldn’t allow that to happen when there has already been so much sacrificed by my kingdom. I was only starting to rebuild from the years of darkness that Lindon had faced, and my people would never fully heal from such evil. I couldn’t afford to allow Sauron’s influence to continue to darken the world. It would make the deaths of my father and Glorfindel meaningless. It was something that I couldn’t and wouldn’t ever accept.I took a shaky breath and fought the urge to cry or scream considering that I had spent too much time doing so these last years. I want to be angry that the descendants of the Numenor had fallen so low to be corrupted in such a way. I was angry that this is where the line had fallen considering whom they had descended from. Isildur’s father had died to ensure that Sauron died, and his own son failed to see it done. I had failed to see it done as well and that shattered me further. I was so lost in my own grief that I didn’t even think of ensuring that he destroyed that ring beyond the directive to Lord Elrond to be present for the destruction. I had faith that Isildur and Elrond would ensure it was done and that the thousands of deaths would be avenged. I took another shaky breath and made a vow that I would never let this happen again. I would be more prepared when I came face to face with that Ring again. I would do whatever it would take to ensure that Sauron was destroyed once and for all. The ring was his last remaining grasp to regaining his physical form once more.I rubbed my hand over my face knowing that things were going to get worse for these lands. There was already so much chaos and upset after so many losses in the war. The toll was felt by all living creatures that had united to fight the war. I could easily consider my own lands to be lucky in comparison to the others. My people suffered from the constant battles throughout the second age, but my lands remained pure. My kingdom was a place that many other elves moved to in order to find a place of peace and prosperity. I doubted that any would have remained if it had not been for my own survival and return to Lindon. My focus had remained on my people and kingdom in the years since the war. My focus was ensuring that all were aware that the battle had been won, and they would know peace after centuries of struggle. Now, I would have to tell them that it was all for nothing. The pressure in my chest grew at the knowledge that many would blame the Numenoreans for what had occurred. I could not even think of defending Isildur’s actions when I felt angry at myself over what he had done. Then there was the split of the United Kingdom between Arnor and Gondor. I knew that such a split of power between them could only breed issues in the future. It could hardly mean a good thing for the lands when there was always so much fighting between the Numenoreans. For the first time since their creation, I didn’t know if I could consider the Numenoreans to be friends. I did not even wish to be face to face with Valandil after uncovering the actions of his father. I would have to in the future to establish that he and his kingdom have remained an ally to Lindon despite his father’s actions. I did not even wish to do so, but I would not hesitate to protect Lindon and my people above all others. Even if that meant fighting Valandil and reclaiming the lands that my father had granted them all those years ago.
~Year 109 of the Third Age
The celebration that was occurring around me did little to alleviate the deep sadness within me. I should be singing along with the others and dancing through the crowd. There was great joy to be found in this moment as Lord Elrond and Lady Celebrian celebrated their sacred union. I was happy for the two of them and knew that their union would be a happy once. Instead, there was a deep ache in my heart at the knowledge that my own union would never occur as we had planned before a war. The war that had tore Glorfindel and my father from my life leaving me with a burden on my shoulder alone. It was a concept that I was unfamiliar with and often still sought out the crowd in search of my father’s comforting presence. I longed deeply for the day that I would be granted the ability to reunite with him in Valinor. I just hoped that he had been reunited with my mother and found the peace that he deserved in the sacred lands.I shook my head to clear the sad thoughts and instead focused on Lady Celebrian’s bright smile as she stared at her bonded husband. I had known Celebrian since she was just an elfling and had known Elrond since I was an elfling myself. I was truly happy that Lord Elrond had found such happiness with an elleth that was truly worthy of him. It was that long-standing friendship that ensured that I would attend the celebration of their union. I had managed to summon the strength to return to Rivendell for the first time since the end of the war. In truth, it had revealed how much I had missed traveling the land and how comforting I found traveling after all these years. It was a longing that I would see to in the future. I knew that my own weariness could only be aided by moving through the lands and finding adventures in the shadows once more.I glanced around and found Lord Cirdan singing with his sons in the distance. As much as I knew that the Kingdom was mine to rule, I knew that I could not do so with Lord Cirdan’s assistance. Cirdan would be more than willing to watch over Lindon to permit me time to myself. In fact, the elf had advised such many times in these last decades in order for me to find solace that had been denied to me. It was only Cirdan that was aware of my own reasoning for hiding my identity outside of the walls of Lindon. Even throughout my travels I would go by another name all together. Alvara would be known as a traveler while my true name would be nothing more than a whisper of a princess that ruled over Lindon in her father’s stead. It would always be my father’s kingdom, and I refused to accept a title that passed down to me when he passed on the battlefield through the halls to Valinor. No, Alvara would be known while Sauron would be left guessing if the Princess that he sought to make his remains in these lands or returned to Valinor in her grief. If he rises and returns to the shadows, I shall keep to the shadows and plan for the day that he reclaimed his power once more.My attention moved once more as another couple approached me and I fought the urge to wince. Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn were two that I did not wish to interact with after all these years. I stiffened as Lady Galadriel’s eyes turned on me and I narrowed my eyes in warning at her potential to enter my mind. I did not wish for the elleth to be in my head or attempt such when it was a place for my thoughts alone. I turned my eyes to Lord Celeborn as he smiled and bowed in my direction, making me stiffen again. I knew that he was simply showing respect that he felt that I was owed, but I did not wish for it between us. Lord Celeborn was a dear friend and despite the anger that I felt towards his wife, I felt none towards him.“Queen Siladhiel, you honor us by attending the celebration of our daughter’s union to Lord Elrond.” Lord Celeborn greets me with a sincere smile, and I wince slightly at the title that he addressed me by.“Please call me Siladhiel, Lord Celeborn. Lindon is my father’s kingdom; I am simply its caretaker in his stead” I murmured softly before offering him a smile in return “And there is no greater cause than a celebration of a bonding between two friends to summon me to Rivendell.”“And I have yet to see you partake in any of the celebrations. Come and dance with this old friend, Siladhiel.” Celeborn requested as he held out his hand with a smile towards me and I took it with ease knowing that I would not fight him on the day of his own daughter’s celebration.“Very well, I shall permit a dance.” I whispered as I bowed my head in Galadriel’s direction before allowing her husband to lead me to the floor to dance to the happy song that was being sung."How have you fared, Siladhiel?” Lord Celeborn questioned me as he began to lead me through the movements of twists and turns as elves laughed around us “It has been many years since I was last graced with your presence. I feared for your well-being when we had not received word from you.”“I have fared as to be expected of any that have seen and been touched by such darkness.” I offered honestly as Lord Celeborn gave me a solemn look “This is a day of happiness and let us not focus on my own grief. I shall remain and heal in time as all must when they are left behind after facing such darkness. I do not wish to focus on such things when we are celebrating the union of two that we both hold dear to us, Lord Celeborn.”“Very well. I shall not press upon you for answers. I do so hope that you are well and that in time you may grace the woods of Lothlorien once more with your presence.” Lord Celeborn replied with a smile on his face as I chuckled lightly in agreement that it had been far too long since I graced those woods.“I have recently found that my spirit is more at ease when traveling. I shall seek out time to travel to your woods once more if you truly believe that my presence would not upset King Amroth. I do not wish to cause the King of Lorien distress after all that he had sacrificed for the alliance.” I explained honestly knowing that Amroth had also lost his father in the war and a great deal of his people due to his own father’s actions.“Even Amroth would take comfort from the presence of the Princess of Light. We are a peaceful folk and have begun to heal from the darkness of war. I trust that he would welcome you and your light into the woods if only to soften the spirits of our people. You are still a beacon to all that surrounds you, Siladhiel. I trust that you have not forgotten that.” Lord Celeborn replied as I took a shaky breath at the old titles that were not so commonly used these days and nodded at him.“Very well, I shall make time for an adventure to Lorien once more. All that I request is that all that speak there use Alvara as my name. I do not wish to be known to travel beyond my borders.” I offered honestly as Lord Celeborn nodded in agreement before glancing at his side as Galadriel approached once more at the end of our dance.“Siladhiel.” Elrond murmured behind me as Celeborn’s attention turned fully to his wife and I glanced at my old friend to find him giving me a small smile “You honor me by attending this celebration.”“Despite the strain to our friendship these last years, you are still one of my dearest and closest companions. I take comfort and joy in seeing you settled with one so worthy of you.” I said in an attempt at a peace offering between us and setting aside the past that caused a rift between us when he allowed Isildur to walk away from the mountain with the ring.“It lightens my spirit to hear you say such and do so hope that you may once again visit here more often. I know that Celebrian would be delighted by your company more often and I find that I miss your presence as well.” Elrond whispered to me as I leaned into his side and offered him a gentle smile more easily that I normally found it.“I expect to be summoned the moment that your own elfling comes to be, Lord Elrond. It has been far too long since I have blessed an elfling and do so hope that you both will think of me as family to the young ones between you two.” I replied with ease thinking of how long it had been since any of the elves had known peace and comfort to bring elflings into these lands.“You shall always be family, and I shall look forward to such days of peace. I can only hope that you will find the same peace and comfort that I have found, Siladhiel. There is no one more deserving of peace and quiet than you.” Elrond replied with a gentle and soft look as I sighed slightly and turned my attention to the purity of his woods.“I do believe that my peace and comfort may be found in traveling once more as I did when I was young. As much as a burden it is to oversee Lindon, I do believe that Lord Cirdan may watch over the kingdom more often to permit me to find solace in the lands as I always have.” I commented honestly as Elrond looked almost delighted at my answer and I knew why.I leaned into the comfort found in the purity of these lands. I knew that Lord Elrond still used his gifted ring to bless and cleanse these lands. In all reality much of Eriador remained pure under my control, but I hadn’t traveled since the end of the war against Sauron. I had no idea the state of the lands outside of the borders of Lindon and it was something that I could take care of. Lindon may have never fallen to darkness, but it was vital that all of Eriador held the same purity. Even if it needed to be a secret from those that lived outside of the lands. I leaned into the lands that were embracing my true self and felt Elrond’s own power cradle mine. It had been far too long since I went to my roots and connected to the lands in such a way. I found that I greatly missed it in truth.I glanced at Lord Elrond with a sad smile knowing that this was the only peace and comfort that I would find for myself. I did not hold the belief that I would ever find the same type of happiness and peace that Lord Elrond had been so lucky to find with Lady Celebrian. I would simply take joy from the fact that one that had been at my side through most of my life and had been my comrade in battle for much of it had found happiness. The happiness that he deserved after all the darkness and death that Lord Elrond had known in his life. I did not hold the belief that I would find my own true match, nor did I wish to. I had no desire to find another that could be taken from me if Sauron ever arose to power once more. My fight against Sauron and his taint would not truly be over until the Ring was found and destroyed once and for all. No, I would not give Sauron another thing that he could steal from my life, nor could I survive the pain of losing another after bearing the losses that we have already suffered.
~Year 242 of the Third Age

~Elrond Point of View~
I couldn’t help but pause my approach when a sound that I had not heard in centuries rang through my halls. My eyes sought at the sight of Siladhiel with my newest elfling, my darling daughter, Arwen. I felt a surge of purity and peace as Siladhiel’s bright and joyous laugh continued to echo through the trees of Rivendell like a beacon of light to all of my people. I felt myself soften as I watched the way the elleth shined and smiled at the small elleth who was so delighted by the attention from her own personal hero. I adored the bond that was forming between the two as I felt a pang knowing so completely how Gil-Galad felt in regard to his daughter. There was simply a different bond between myself and my daughter in comparison to my sons. I could imagine permitting my daughter to live the life that Siladhiel had been forced to endure.Still, I took comfort in the knowledge that Siladhiel was healing from the war. It was clear that her many journeys through Eriador until the name of Alvara had eased some of the weariness that she carried after the final war against Sauron. Siladhiel was easier with a smile and showed less reluctance to take care of herself. It helped that she was completely taken with my own children, and they were completely taken with her. In fact, my own fears over her well-being began to ease the first time that she visited Rivendell after the birth of my sons. Siladhiel shined as she walked through the halls and woods surrounding Rivendell with them in her arms telling them stories without restraint. I doubted that she realized how many elves had taken comfort from her singing and found peace from seeing the brightness of her true self so unrestrained after so many years. I had feared that I would never see her true smile, hear her sing, or even see her fully embrace her true self after the war. I should have realized that she would have a weakness for the little ones and would brighten for them.“Do you seek to steal my daughter from me, Siladhiel.” I teased as I approached them with a smile as her laugh fading to little chuckles as my own daughter giggled in her arms.“I do believe that Arwen would go willingly, Elrond.” Siladhiel replied as she pulled Arwen closer, who just looked delighted to be in her hero’s arms and have her attention “You are simply jealous that you are not your daughter’s favorite anymore, Elrond.”“I assure you that you are most definitely not her favorite.” I replied with a frown as I tried to reclaim my daughter who whined causing Siladhiel to laugh in delight.“I most definitely am, Lord Elrond. Your children simply adore me.” Siladhiel said with a playful smirk as two young squeals of joy were heard from the woods making me sigh knowing what was about to occur.“Siladhiel!” Elladan and Elrohir shouted with joy as they both collided with her legs as Siladhiel chuckled and shifted to not drop my young daughter at their actions.“Careful, you could have harmed your sister.” I scolded seriously as Siladhiel smiled brightly down at the two troublemakers.“I have missed you both so much. Have you been causing chaos in my absence?” Siladhiel asked them as they actually beamed up at her and I raised my eyebrow at her encouraging such behavior “You father is simply jealous because you like me better and will always be third favorite.”“What do you mean third?” I questioned her with a deep frown as my sons betrayed me by nodding in agreement.“Even you must be aware that their favorite will always be their mother, Elrond.” Siladhiel commented as she glanced behind me and I turned feeling my true self reach for her immediately, my darling Celebrian.“Indeed, a bond between a mother and her child is stronger than any others.” Celebrian murmured with a smile as she appeared taking Arwen from Siladhiel looking stunning just as she always did “Are they fighting over you again, little one?”“It is hardly a fight between us when I always win.” Siladhiel joked, causing me to narrow my eyes on her once more and my wife chuckled lowly next to me.“Of that, I have no doubt. Now, come and let me show you to your room for your stay while Elrond sees that Elladan and Elrohir are prepared for our evening meal.” Celebrian directed as she linked arms with Siladhiel and gave me a smile before walking off.I frowned deeply at being dismissed so quickly by my wife before looking down at the muddy sons before me. I sighed heavily knowing that I should not have allowed a friendship between my wife and Siladhiel to form so deeply. Siladhiel had known Celebrian for my wife’s entire life but had never formed a close bond of friendship. No, I had always maintained a closer friendship and alliance with Siladhiel. Now, a few centuries after bonding with my wife and Celebrian was actively using Siladhiel against me. Part of me was grateful that they had a bond and that Siladhiel visited so often to see my children. I felt as if I had a dear friend returned to me as Siladhiel began to lose the weariness that had overtaken her all those years ago. I found that I deeply missed the ease of comparison between Siladhiel and myself that had been strained after the actions at the mountain.I shook my head as I crowded my sons to their quarters in disapproval for the way that they had dirtied themselves despite being informed of the formal evening meal. Celebrian would not hear about it when we were informed by the scouts that Alvara had been seen approaching Rivendell. I smirked knowing that Siladhiel would actively protest the celebration and feast that my wife had planned this evening. At least, my evening would be amusing as I watched my wife trying to outmaneuver one of the greatest warriors of our time. If nothing else, I was simply content to see Siladhiel’s happiness as she interacted with my children even if she spent the evening trying to get the twins to cause trouble and ruin my wife’s plans.
~Year 420 of the Third Year

~Siladhiel Point of View~
I felt a cold sadness through my spirit at the sight before me. There were flashes of memories of times from so long ago in my mind that I could not hope to stop. I was hopeless against the recollection of the white tree as I stared at the second one. I had seen the first white tree bloom. I had been unfortunate to see its destruction when Sauron had claimed Minas Arnor for himself and burned it to ash. I had not expected the sight of another one to cause such conflicting emotions within me. I took a shaky breath as I forced my attention to return to King Ostoher. I found that King Ostoher was already watching me with a curious look of understanding that surprised me. I had hidden my true identity well during my travels, but I felt for a moment that King Ostoher was staring straight at my true self. I simply could not hide the strong emotions that I felt staring at the white tree, and it was clear that he was well aware of my feelings.“King Isildur replanted the White Tree in honor of his brother Anarion at the end of the war and then tasked my bloodline with it’s protection and care.” King Ostoher offered as he looked upon the white tree and I took a breath knowing how much was symbolized with it to the Numenoreans “Although, it does appear that you have seen this before, Alvara.”“I have not seen this one.” I confirmed for him as King Ostoher looked at me with curious eyes “I saw the first at its inception and destruction. I know that the White Tree has long been a symbol of the strength found in your kingdom and bloodline.”“And do you believe that there is still strength to be found in Gondor?” King Ostoher asked me after a moment of thought, and I gave him a sad smile.“You will find that I have and will always believe in the strength of Gondor. It will be truly a sad day if I was to ever cense my belief in Elros’ descendants.” I replied honestly as I turned to the man that had done well in his rule “You have done your bloodline proud, King Ostoher.”“You honor me, Queen Siladhiel.” King Ostoher whisper after a moment causing my head to snap back in his direction “I have read quite a lot about the long-standing ally of my kin. The stories have been most honest. I shall keep the truth of your identity a secret, even from my own to ensure that you may travel freely.”“I am most appreciative that you are willing to do so.” I replied with ease before motioning to the door “Perhaps you may show me more of the changes that have occurred in the time that has passed since my last visit here.”“I would be most honored, Lady Alvara.” King Ostoher said with a delighted smile as he took my arm to lead the way.I glanced behind us and caught the sight of the tree once more. The white tree was a symbol of so many things that tied to Isildur. I took a breath and closed my eyes as I released the rage that I still felt towards the fallen king that I once considered a dear friend. I could not know Isildur’s mind at the moment that he chose to keep the ring. The tree was confirmation that there had been some good left in him at the end of the war. It was also the king at my side that confirmed that I still considered them to be allies after all these years. I cannot and would not blame the others for the actions of a king that was hurting just as deeply as myself at the end of the war. Isildur could not know what awaits him after death or if he would be reunited with his own kin. None knew what happened to those unwelcomed in undying lands after the passed through the halls. I could not pretend to understand how Isildur would have felt after seeing such death in battle.I glanced at King Ostoher as he spoke of the great undertaking that would become his legacy. Ostoher had dedicated his life to rebuilding Minas Arnor to its former glory. Actually, I confirmed with a small smile that King Ostoher was building this place to be far beyond the fort that it was originally designed to be. It would hopefully become a place for the remaining descendants of the bloodlines to build a great nation once more. I could only hope that King Ostoher would continue to show the strength instead of weakness of his own bloodline. I knew him to be a kind and just leader for his people that wished to make their kingdom bigger and better. It eased my worries that perhaps there was hope for the future rulers of men. The greater part of me still believed in Elros’ bloodline and it was good to realize that after so many years of anger at Isildur.
~Year 861 of the Third Year
I was surprised as I read through the reports from the scouts on what had happened as a result of Earendur passing away. The King of Arnor would end with his death it seems and that confused me even more. Earendur had three sons that all sought to rule and instead of settling on a single ruler had decided to split the region into three separate kingdoms from this moment on. I fought it utterly ridiculous that Arnor would be Arthedain, Cardolan, and Rhudaur. I could only hope that they would remain peaceful with each other as these lands all bordered on separate areas of my own lands. I sighed heavily having a feeling that these lands would need to be reclaimed sooner rather than later.I knew that it was vital that all of Eriador be secured in the future if Sauron was to rise to power. I knew that the three kingdoms would most likely fight amongst each other. Not to mention that they simply made their people even weaker as the once great kingdom was now split into four kingdoms. There would not be strength found in so many separate fractions of them throughout the land if there was a creditable threat in the future. I sighed heavily as I set down the reports, knowing that I would need to be prepared to secure the route from the mountains for the elves. These lands could not afford to become darkened when so many elves sought my shores for peace or departing for the undying lands. I had to establish safe passages for all that traveled within Eriador, not just Lindon.“I shall meet with King Amlaith of Arthedain, King Aldarion of Cardolan, and King Ambarto of Rhudaur in time to ensure the alliance remains with the Dunedain. Let us hope that they mean for peaceful reigns for their kingdoms. Until such can be determines, I wish to have scouts in each of the kingdoms to ensure they do nothing that will affect my people.” I directed Lord Cirdan and his sons who quickly nodded in understanding and agreement.“It would be most wise to ensure that these kingdoms do not cause issues that shall spill into these lands. One of the scouts have reported that there is already fighting over Weathertop hill.” Lord Cirdan offered as I frowned at that information due to knowing the significance of this spot.“It does not truly surprise me that these men would fight over such a location. They wish for control over the Palantir and to hold the power that these stones would provide. There is a reason that King Elendil has selected such a location as the meeting spot for the Alliance army in the war.” I replied as I thought that there was irony that this was now the spot that was tearing apart his line further.“I do not believe that such power should remain in the rulers of men.” Lord Elrond commented with a sharp frown as I sighed heavily and shook my head slightly.“Be that as it may, there is little that could be done without risking a war with the remaining Dunedain at the moment if we were to attempt to remove the Palantir to our care. We must simply remain vigilant and ensure that these powerful stones are not used by those that wish harm to us.” I offered honestly before standing from the desk.“Siladhiel is correct. For now, we must wait to see how the line of Elros splits in the future and only interfere if these stones fall into the hands or control of an enemy.” Lord Cirdan said seriously as Lord Elrond just nodded in reluctant agreement with the plan.“Now, let us go and meet with your children. I do believe that I am due time to spend with them as it has been far too long since I spent time in their presence.” I commented knowing that Elrond did not often bring his children to Lindon when they were far safer remaining in Rivendell instead of traveling.“They could hardly be contained when they discovered that they may travel here to see your home, Siladhiel. I fear the trouble that the twins will find here.” Elrond warned as I chuckled lowly knowing that my servants would most likely have to keep an eye on the children until Elrond departed.“Let us not keep them waiting.” I directed as I motioned for all of us to leave my study.I shut the door and tried to push aside the worry over the future of Eriador. There would be time for me to contemplate this at a better time when more information was available to me. Until such time, all I could do was use caution and scouts to maintain eyes within each of these new kingdoms. I smiled as I heard the giggles in the distance. I knew that I would find his twins most like pranking someone within my palace.  I felt a pang of sadness at the lack of elflings in the palace. I knew that even Elrond’s children did not often travel with him to fill the palace with their joyous laughter. Celebrian was worried over my influence on their daughter, Arwen. I did not have the heart to warn the Lady of Rivendell that Arwen had a heart that was destined for more than she could imagine. In the unclear images of the distance future, Arwen had a part to play in the future of these lands. I did not know with clarity what destiny lays before the young elleth, but none would be able to prevent her from following her heart.