Return to Mirkwood COMPLETE

Title: Return To Mirkwood
Chapter Twenty five
Author: Sarah
Pairing: Gimli/Legolas
Rating: G this chapter.
Disclaimer: I love them and thank Tolkien for them. They are not mine. I own nothing that belongs to Tolkien. However, I do claim the original characters and
ideas. The song is not mine-although I have changed the words some.
Archive: Axe and Bow. Others please ask.
Feedback: Please. saraharizonaanne@hotpop.com
Author notes: Thank you to everyone who gave me fb. The encouragement helps me more than I can say. Thank you to erobey for the love and guidance. Thank you, Marigold, for the wonderful beta work and nice additions. I'm proud to be one of yours. Any mistakes left are mine.


Lanterns had been placed along the sides of the bridge. A cool twilight breeze brushed over Gimli. Servants went by pulling carts loaded with food and wine.

They crossed over the bridge into the forest and Gimli had a shock to his senses. *There are stars in the trees,* he thought with his heart, though his mind knew the twinkling lights were only lanterns.

The path was almost as bright as day. The wind blowing through the branches made a soft singing sound. The song of Arda rushed to his ears and he sighed happily. He felt as if he had regained a lost sense. He reached over and squeezed Legolas' hand, receiving an answering smile in return. *Legolas' eyes are so bright they rival any starlight,* Gimli thought.

They walked slowly along the paths. It appeared to Gimli that the entire population of Eryn Lasgalen was gathering. Gimli experienced the melody in a way he had not before. Elves were singing around them and although they were not all singing exactly the same tune, each song seemed to weave together and blend in with the greater chorus that belonged to the woods. Legolas' hand occasionally brushed Gimli’s shoulder and his voice soon joined the others. Gimli concentrated on his love's rejoicing and felt his own joy in realising he could discern Legolas' part in the music of the Greenwood even as it mingled and became one with the song of the forest. Though Legolas' words were part of the whole yet they were still distinct to Gimli.

The night air of the meadow had a sweet smell. Gimli saw that the elves had hung lanterns in many of the trees around the glen and everywhere he looked branches were laden with baskets and garlands of flowers. They had covered the ground with leaves. The mulberry bushes were strung with blossoms and savoury smelling herbs. The soft lantern light expanded to surround the glade and enhance the glimmer of twilight.

Talans had been placed in the taller trees. Elves were crowded around the glade, sitting on blankets laid upon the ground. Some of them had elflings in their laps and Gimli recalled the statement from Istil that this was an historic event. Gimli had never seen so many elves gathered together at one time.

A flute began to play and a clear sweet voice lifted in song as Gimli and Legolas stepped into the meadow. Gimli recognised the singer's voice, Calimetaur. She was from Celduil's lineage but Gimli was not entirely certain where her place in the line was.

Gimli was familiar with the song. Legolas had sung it first in Minas Tirith at the wedding of Lady Arwen and King Elessar. The happy event had left Gimli dwelling on the risk his elf was taking by loving a mortal. Legolas had repeated the serenade for his love alone that night after the ceremony.


As the words were sung to Gimli that night in Gondor, he had finally found peace over his place in Legolas' heart. It was not an elven song but a human one. Legolas must have requested the melody be sung tonight and told Calimetaur the words while Gimli was with Tasar.

"You are the beacon of my night

The sunlight of my days

I can rest within your arms

I can trust our love always..."

A long table had been placed in the centre of the clearing. The King sat at the head of the table with a woodland garland of gold and red autumn leaves in his hair. Celduil and Tasar with Lisse were at the Elven Lord's side. Elind was at his other side but Gimli saw none of the other elves he knew to be family at the table. Legolas had told him that aside from his father and Elind who stood in his mother's place, none who were related to him could be a witness. Gimli knew the rest of the elves, though. They had introduced themselves at that first party and he had seen several of them since.

They were escorted solemnly to their chairs at the opposite end of the table from the King.

Gimli had no doubts at all regarding what he was about to do but the significance of it gave him a feeling of both awe and humility.

Eternity. That was what he was promising. It wasn't just for a lifetime because Legolas never intended to part from him again.

This was truly about love as it was bigger than both of them and far more powerful. Legolas' declarations of how they were meant to be together nudged at his heart. Gimli sighed. He wanted to believe as Legolas did but the Valar had never really loved dwarves, it was difficult to imagine Eru himself having any concern for them.

The song ceased and silence fell over the meadow. In the distance, Gimli could hear the sound of frogs but even the forest's music seemed muted as if it, too, was an observer of the seriousness of what they were about to do.

Gimli knew that an elf named Enyen usually started the ceremony and was surprised when Thranduil spoke instead, addressing the audience surrounding them.

"Since Legolas has arrived home, many of you have expressed hopes and fears over this union to me. Hopes that it will bring peace and repair old wounds, fears over what will happen should Gimli and Legolas weaken the bond through dissension, perhaps causing both races to quarrel by their actions. I cannot determine how Gimli's race will react to what we celebrate tonight. I can, however, give you, my beloved people, my desires for the attitude I wish for us to hold.

"This evening I hope instead we will concentrate on the two of them. Those of you who are bonded know that a bond is based on the harmony and love between two individuals. It does not concern itself over politics for it is a private matter between two who are in love. When this ceremony is finished, we will be welcoming a new couple into our community. I would have my people support their union. Remember that while their friendship may gift us with a better understanding of Gimli's race, the bond belongs to the two of them alone."

Gimli appreciated what the Elven Lord was doing and from Legolas' smile his elf was happy about it, too. They had talked about this very thing: the pressure put on their relationship from the expectations and aspirations of both races. The King was attempting to give this ceremony to them alone, as individuals, easing the burden as much as possible for tonight at least. Gimli knew, however, that it ultimately was not possible to totally avoid the fact that the love he and Legolas shared was a concern for many others.

The King ceased speaking and Enyen started the ceremony. He spoke loud and clear, "Gimli, Gloin's son, your own are not here this evening so we will acknowledge your word alone instead. Do you hereby testify that no other has prior claim to you and you are free to make the vows soon to be spoken?"

Legolas had told Gimli what to expect so he was prepared for each step of the ceremony. He replied, "Aye. I am bound to Legolas and him alone. To Legolas only have I made a commitment. There is no other. I give my word in the presence of this assembly."

Enyen spoke again, "The people have heard your word and accept it." He paused and then said, "Legolas Thranduilion, your own are here tonight. I will grant one minute of silence. Should anyone here feel they have claim to Legolas, speak now."

The silence that fell over the company settled itself deeply into Gimli's heart. He had known he was special to Legolas and required no proof but the truth completely filled the quiet around them. Here indeed was proof, had he needed it, that he was loved beyond all others. He was aware of Legolas' gripping his hand and that the trees were still. Even the breeze had ceased. The elves around them were quiet. Gimli could not detect either the song or the frogs he had heard earlier. Each second seemed an eternity of joy to remain in his heart forever.

Gimli held his elf's eyes trying to express the certainty he felt over his value to Legolas. A thought occurred to Gimli, saddening him. Had his elf been hurt to such an extent that he had let his years pass without trying to find love? Each second reminded Gimli of the years his elf had been alone. Gimli searched Legolas' eyes but he glimpsed only the happiness his one felt over their love and his own joy returned.

Enyen's voice rang clear as he said, "The people's silence has spoken. From this time forth, let it be known that none have right to give dissension over the promises soon to be proclaimed. Legolas, son of Thranduil, do you before this gathering pledge that you are free to commit yourself to this contract and no one has previous right to your heart?"

Legolas answered, "I do now pledge. All that I am: heart, fea, mind, and body, I have given to Gimli and promised to no one else ever before. I swear this before everyone gathered here as witness to our commitment."

The King handed a parchment to Celduil, who in turn, gave it to the elf next to him. Gimli watched as Tasar and Lisse did the same. The first form was put in the hands of Enyen who held it as he spoke, "We are here tonight to acknowledge a new bond between Legolas Thranduilion and Gimli, son of Gloin. A bond is formed in the sight of Iluvatar and with his blessings. Such a union is beyond the touch of any living being on Arda.

"Here is their avowal of faithfulness, loyalty, and steadfastness to each other. Vows that will be cherished in the heart.

"Tonight, they will attest to put each other first at all times. First even before their own peoples. Legolas and Gimli affirm their decision to stand by each other in the future as they have in the past. Their friendship and love will endure through both sorrow and happiness.

"In as much as their souls have become united, never shall their bodies find joy in union with any being than each other, for truly they were made in congruence, one with the other, and though separate at birthing ever were they united within the Music.


"Regardless of the race of the individuals within the union, a bond is sacred above all else on Arda. The new covenant we acknowledge tonight should be shown the same respect given to every bonding. As a joining of the souls, it is not to be disregarded or questioned.

"Gimli, you have been named Elvellon. May the joy and the friendships gained while you walk among our people far outweigh the responsibilities of such a title. Let us who are now your people gladly welcome you. May Yavanna approve this bond between mountain and forest and bestow her blessing upon it.

"Legolas, when you are among Gimli's people may you show them the value that lies in diversity. As Gimli has been named elf-friend, may you be a friend to dwarves and find happiness among your new people. May Aulë look upon this union of his earth-wrought child and a child of the woods with joy and blessings.

"By endorsing this document, both of you declare that it is signed for love and endorsed by your free choice and will, without any duress from any individual."

As each solemn word was spoken, Gimli felt them echo in his heart. His world suddenly seemed to encompass only the words and Legolas who was holding onto his hand tightly.

The pledge was passed to Caduin, who read it silently, and gave it to Pallatol. He, too, scanned the form. Gimli saw a second copy being presented to Enyen. He knew what they were doing. Each copy would be read by every witness and finally arrive at the two of them. This way, there could be no doubt that each contract stated only what it should with no added details. Legolas had told Gimli over an evening meal one night that this was customary. Lisse had mentioned that she felt it was part of the beauty of the ceremony, having the bond openly acknowledged.

When the first contract reached them, Gimli noticed that it had been written in gold ink. He was pleased but felt far too serious to reflect that pleasure. The border around it had been done in gold also.

After perusing the document, Legolas picked up the quill, but he did not sign the parchment.

Instead he turned to Gimli and looking deeply in his dwarf's eyes, he declared, "Now and forever I shall love thee, Gimli, son of Gloin. What I hereby pledge this night I shall honour forever. No one and nothing shall come between us. Nor will I ever put any person or thing before you. Time shall end and still my love for you will be strong. I promise you my faithfulness. In Eru's name, I bind myself to you and will belong to you alone for all eternity." With a flourish, he signed the first copy and presented it to Gimli.

*Such love.* Gimli perceived himself so clearly in Legolas' eyes. He, too, paused before endorsing the parchment. He saw only Legolas and the image of himself as he gazed into his beloved's eyes, "I love you Legolas, son of Thranduil, and you shall always be first in my life. I will go where you go and though parted for times yet we remain one and always will I return to your side. I shall keep every word of what I pledge to you tonight. I give my vow of my faithfulness to you. I will love you for all of eternity. Forever my spirit will remain united in love with yours. In Eru's name, I declare you are my one love and there will never be another."

And so asserting Gimli signed the agreement.

There were three documents to be signed: a copy for Gimli's King, one for the Elven Lord, and the last to be given to Legolas and Gimli. Each form, once endorsed, was passed to the seven witnesses and signed by them.

Lastly it was delivered to the King, who laid all three out in front of him. His eyes went to the moon and Gimli forced his view from Legolas and up to the sky. The moon had just risen and was making his way across the sky.

Legolas left his seat and Gimli followed him. When they arrived at the head of the table, Elind stood up. She put one hand on Legolas' shoulder and one on Gimli's. Then she spoke, "I ask tonight that Varda grace this union with both love and understanding. May the two of you let your eyes see the good in each other and have a heart willing to forgive the other's faults. Let your words be kind and your thoughts reflect your love. May you hear what the heart speaks and not just what is said. Be quick in showing care and slow to display anger. I pray that Varda will guide you in the bond we recognise tonight. I dedicate this bonding to Iluvatar. In his name, you are not two but one."

Gimli watched as she left their side, signed the contracts with graceful script, and sat back down.

The King took her place and spoke, "As the new crescent moon rises, Durin's people begin their New Year. We are here celebrating and attesting to a bond that is just starting. May each New Year be a reminder of the vows they have given and be hallowed with love. As the moon rises and ushers in each New Year may they recall the life they commenced with the consenting of the bond.

"As Ithil shines on both Durin's children and the Firstborn, let Legolas and Gimli remember always that no longer do they belong to one race only for they are joined to each other. I ask Manwë to bless their union, granting them the wisdom and the joy of the Eldar. Let Aulë favour it with the strength and endurance of Durin's people."

He paused letting the silence settle upon the meadow. Gimli felt an unfamiliar tightening and warmth in his chest. A touch like butterfly wings seemed to caress his spirit. He realised this was the bond but what to do in response he discerned not. Gimli desired more closeness, wanted it with all his heart and he tried to let that desire dominate his thoughts. There was an almost painful tug in his chest, Legolas' grip on his hand, and for second he felt another heartbeat next to his own. The tightness in his chest eased leaving behind a snug sensation like a favourite garment worn often because it fit exactly right.

Gimli was aware of the intake of breath from Legolas. Thoughts of love and happiness filled him as a cup that ran pass its brink and he knew: these were Legolas' feelings. In the distance he heard the King say, "In Eru's name you are bonded together for eternity." His voice caught and Gimli's focus went to Thranduil. The King's eyes were misty and for a brief second he held Legolas' gaze. When he spoke again, his voice was steady. "Instead of two you are now one."

Quiet reigned again, and then the Elven Lord said, "We will now fulfil Gimli's request."

Tbc