The Fellowship of the Ring: Legolas x Tauriel Book 1

Chapter 5: Gilraen's Memorial

In the serene gardens of Rivendell, where the air was filled with the sweet scent of blossoming flowers and the gentle melody of babbling brooks, the fellowship of the ring gathered, each member lost in their own thoughts and concerns. The hobbits stood in a small cluster with Gimli and Boromir, their expressions a mix of apprehension and excitement as they awaited their next steps on the perilous journey ahead.

Suddenly, the tranquility of the garden was disrupted by the swift descent of Legolas and Tauriel, their figures moving with grace down the stone steps. Tauriel's light-hearted skip was met with Legolas's swift response, his arms wrapping protectively around her to prevent any misstep.

"Careful, my love. Are you and the baby alright?" Legolas's voice was soft, filled with genuine concern as he held Tauriel close, his hands gently supporting her.

"We're fine," Tauriel reassured him, her smile warm as she leaned into his embrace. She smoothed down her hunting dress, the fabric draping over her small baby bump, concealing it from prying eyes.

As they joined the group, Tauriel's whispered question hung in the air, a thread of uncertainty woven into her words. "Do you think anyone suspects that we're married or that I'm pregnant?" she asked, her voice barely audible above the rustle of leaves.

"It's hard to say," Legolas replied, his gaze sweeping over their companions with a mixture of caution and vigilance. He knew the importance of keeping their relationship and Tauriel's pregnancy a secret, especially with the weight of their mission pressing upon them.

Merry and Pippin exchanged curious glances as they observed Legolas and Tauriel's interaction, their youthful curiosity piqued by the whispered conversation. "Are you alright, Tauriel?" Frodo's voice cut through the air, his concern evident as he addressed their elven companion.

"Yes, I'm fine. I just skipped a step," Tauriel replied with a reassuring smile, her eyes meeting Frodo's with warmth and sincerity.

However, Legolas's concern lingered, his protective instincts kicking into overdrive as he addressed Tauriel once more. "We have to be more careful, Tauriel. We can't afford for our secret to be discovered. Take off your wedding ring. I think it's best if we don't wear them around the others," he said, his voice low but firm as he removed his own ring.

Tauriel nodded in understanding, a sense of determination shining in her eyes as she complied with Legolas's request. She slipped the delicate band from her finger, tucking it safely away before turning back to their companions with a composed demeanor.

Aragorn, ever the vigilant leader, approached with a solemn expression etched upon his features. "We must discuss our next course of action," he announced, his voice carrying the weight of their mission. "The road ahead will be fraught with danger, but we must remain united if we are to succeed."

Boromir nodded in agreement, his gaze steely as he surveyed the group. "Indeed, we cannot afford to falter now," he remarked, his tone resolute as he stood tall among his companions.

Gandalf, the wise wizard, cast his gaze over the fellowship, his eyes shining with ancient knowledge and unwavering resolve. "The fate of Middle-earth rests in our hands," he said, his voice grave but determined. "We must press onward, no matter the challenges we may face."

As the fellowship stood together in the tranquil garden of Rivendell, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the weight of their shared destiny, they knew that the road ahead would test their courage, their strength, and their bonds of friendship. But with determination in their hearts and unity among their ranks, they were prepared to face whatever trials lay ahead, for they carried with them the hope of all Middle-earth.