The ElvenKing [A thranduil fanfiction]

Chapter 13

Lindon S.A 3428

          With the coming of spring that year, I had returned to Greenwood. I was excited to resume my duties again, to explore the forest and just be granted a distraction from everything that had happened in Lindon. Thranduil had become the distraction I had longed for. He lingered in Lindon, on the pretense to get to know his bride but deep down I knew it was because he longed for my company. He clearly valued my blunt nature and the way I treated him like any other ellon.

It had become too obvious, and people would stare at me even more than they usually would. I had on purpose neglected to tell Thranduil until the last minute before I was to leave. From the way he looked at me, I was sure about just how angry he had been with my decision. Also, from the way he reluctantly returned my respectful greeting, but it was necessary for us to separate for some time. I didn't want any more rumors to spread, destroying everything for the both of us.

I had left a note in his room, explaining why I needed to go. I knew he would understand, he had been aware of the rumors as well. I couldn't count how many times he had asked me to ignore them. Luckily, I was no to travel back to Greenwood on my own, Rüdhon had come to collect me, making the return journey less boring. He was one big smile at my side. Those knowing eyes with a mischievous glint were too observant. "What." I scowled, sending him a glare that only widened his grin.

"Thranduil didn't seem particularly pleased with you. Did you neglect telling him you were leaving?" He asked and gestured towards the kingdom we'd just left, with a nod of his head. My lips were a thin line. I refused to pour more wood onto the fire because I would not get to hear the end of it from him. Rüdhon slowed his horse, coming to ride next to me and within my reach.

It was a mistake on his part. Once within reach I hit his shoulder. Rüdhon's head tipped back with laugher as he rubbed the sore spot to infuriate me further. "I hate you." I groaned before urging my horse forwards into a trot. I didn't look back, nor wait for Rüdhon before I allowed my horse to run. I galloped through the familiar forest with Rüdhon right on my tail.

Riding had always been a favorite of mine. I felt free. I knew Rüdhon were a good rider, and one of the only companions where I could ride as fast as I wanted to. He would be able to follow me, without any difficulties. The first time I looked back to make sure he was following me, I could only see immense joy on his face. He enjoyed it equally as much. We didn't stop to rest before night had claimed the land, the horses exhausted but happy. It would take us several days before reaching Greenwood.

I aways enjoyed traveling, it would allow me to see much of the world and even stop in Imladris to visit Elrond. The stronghold they had built within the valley after the destruction of Eregion, was now a refuge and a place to rest for weary travelers. Elrond was a wise man, and Gil-galad valued his opinion above most others.

After eight days on the road and one day resting in Imladris, Rüdhon and I finally reached The Woodland realm. My father was there to greet us when we reached the main kingdom. The forest hadn't changed, and my heart soared to get back out there and explore. Othar extended a respectful greeting to Rüdhon, hand against his heart before extending it. It was reciprocated by him before my father pulled me into a big hug.