The Fellowship of the Ring: Legolas x Tauriel Book 1

Chapter 2: The News

Tauriel stood in her room, her hand gently caressing her three-month baby bump as she admired her reflection in the mirror. The swell of her belly was a testament to the life growing within her—a life that bound her and Legolas together in a way nothing else could. The peaceful moment was interrupted by the comforting warmth of strong arms encircling her waist.

"Tauriel, I've been summoned to Rivendell," Legolas said, his voice a blend of seriousness and tenderness.

"Rivendell? What for?" Tauriel turned to face him, concern furrowing her brow.

"The Ring of Power has become a concern. Elrond is convening a council to decide its fate," Legolas explained, his expression reflecting the weight of the news.

Understanding flashed in Tauriel's eyes. The Ring was a perilous artifact, capable of great harm if it fell into the wrong hands. "I want to come with you. You might need my help," she insisted, determination ringing in her voice.

Legolas hesitated, his concern for her safety evident. "It's dangerous. And our marriage, our child—"

Tauriel placed her hand on his, cutting him off gently. "I know the risks. But I can't stay behind while you face this alone."

Legolas studied her for a moment, his gaze softening. "Alright. But we must keep our marriage and our child a secret. Few would understand."

"I promise," Tauriel replied firmly, her hand covering his as they shared a brief moment of reassurance.

Together, they packed their belongings in a silence tinged with anticipation and anxiety. Tauriel carefully folded her cloak and placed it in her bag, a symbol of the life she and Legolas had chosen together.

"Tauriel, are you sure about this?" Legolas asked softly, his eyes searching hers.

"Absolutely," she replied with a faint smile. "Someone has to keep you out of trouble."

Legolas arched an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Mocking me, are you?"

Tauriel grinned mischievously. "Just a little. It's my duty as your wife, after all."

He chuckled, shaking his head affectionately. "And you excel at it."

Their journey to Rivendell was solemn and contemplative. The weight of their mission hung heavy on their minds as they rode through forests and over rolling hills. When dusk settled, they found a secluded spot under an ancient tree to camp for the night. Legolas set up a campfire while Tauriel arranged their bedrolls, the routine bringing a fleeting sense of normalcy amidst uncertainty.

Sitting side by side under the tree's sheltering branches, they warmed themselves by the crackling fire. The night was quiet, interrupted only by the distant sounds of nocturnal creatures.

"Legolas, who will be at the council?" Tauriel asked, breaking the peaceful silence.

"Representatives from all Free Peoples of Middle-earth," Legolas explained. "Elrond will preside, Gandalf will attend, and Aragorn, the Ranger, is expected. Dwarves, men, and even hobbits have roles to play."

"Hobbits?" Tauriel raised an eyebrow in surprise. "What part do they have in this?"

"The Ring was found by a hobbit, and now a hobbit carries it. Frodo Baggins—his courage has brought the Ring this far," Legolas answered with respect in his voice.

Tauriel nodded thoughtfully. "It seems our allies come from unexpected places."

Legolas smiled warmly. "Indeed. We'll need every ally we can muster. The fate of Middle-earth hangs on this council."

She placed her hand on her abdomen, feeling a flutter within—a reminder of the future they were fighting for. "Our child's future depends on the council's decision," she murmured softly.

Legolas's gaze softened as he looked at her, his voice tender. "I know. And I will do everything to ensure that future is safe."

They sat in silence, the fire casting flickering shadows around them. The night seemed vast, the stars above witnessing their resolve and love.

"Tauriel," Legolas began quietly, breaking the silence. "When we reach Rivendell, we must be cautious. Many won't understand our bond, or the importance of our child."

"I understand," Tauriel replied, her voice steady. "We'll be careful."

Legolas leaned in, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "I love you, Tauriel. Whatever happens, remember that."

"I love you too, Legolas," she whispered, her voice filled with emotion. "We'll face this together."

The next morning, they resumed their journey. The landscape shifted as they neared Rivendell—cooler air, denser forests—a world apart from their woodland home. Riding side by side, Legolas glanced at Tauriel with a question in his eyes.

"What do we do after the council?" he asked quietly.

Tauriel met his gaze, her expression resolute. "We protect our child and our people, whatever it takes."

Legolas nodded, determination hardening his features. "Together, we are strong."

Tauriel smiled softly. "Together, we can face anything."

Their path to Rivendell was fraught with uncertainty, but their bond and shared purpose fortified them against the challenges ahead.