The Great Sacrifice

Resting The Heart Among The Stars

Thranduil sat at a rock formation under a tree. Its branches and fresh green leaves hung over the king's head as if they tried to shield him from the burden of this world. It was a special tree to him. He had planted it after the Battle of the Five Armies, when Dale's reconstruction began. It was a symbol of the allegiance between the people of Dale and the elves of Mirkwood. They would aid each other in times of need. An allegiance, which Thranduil hoped would never have to be called upon again. He yearned for peace more than anything. But, above all, he yearned for peace in his heart. Thranduil was lost in his thoughts. In Ari's workshop he had felt drawn to her as if by superior power. His mind was enchanted by her, his body longed for her. He had almost lost control. Despite his momentary doubts, he had wanted her, he had wanted to lose control. Suddenly there were emotions in him that had never been there before. They were forceful, yet peaceful, frightening and pleasant at the same time. Overwhelming, yet strangely soothing. He suddenly yearned deeply. What had changed? He wanted to touch her so urgently. Thranduil closed his eyes and clenched his hands to fists. He would have done so if not for the disruption from Galion and the guard. Was this meant to happen? Thranduil found himself strangely bewildered. No matter what had happened today, what did he really want? What would he sacrifice for her? Would it be worth it? Thranduil's body tensed and he opened his eyes again. Did he have a choice at all?

Light but purposeful footsteps caught his attention. He did not turn around as he already knew who had come.

Galion didn't have to search for Thranduil, he knew where to find him. He approached the king and found a place to sit a little lower than Thranduil's to make sure he would not sit higher than his king. They gazed into the distance and enjoyed the sunset, both lost in thoughts.

*****

Ari was in deep thoughts about the King who had left her without a word. He had been highly irritated by something. She had noticed it and she did not like it, especially because she did not know what it meant. Apparently, there was some kind of connection between them. But of what nature that connection was, Ari could not say. With this new understanding, she realized that it had been the fury of the king that she had felt when she was in his forest a month ago. At that time she had been clueless, but now she had no more doubts. She could sense his feelings. But how?

Sweeping the floor, she could not help but try to analyze the situation. She was apparently able to perceive his anger. But was that all? Could she feel him now? Could she feel him even though he was not here? Ari stopped and held her breath, pondering over her ridiculous idea. She frowned deeply. If there was a connection between them, should she dare test it? Not out of curiosity, but simply to gain a better understanding? Ari huffed and shook her head, before she continued to sweep the floor. Of course she was anxious to know. But would he notice if she would test their... connection? Ari chastised herself for having even thought about it. But as much as she disliked the thought, she was too reluctant to abandon it. She had to know. Putting down the broom, she stood straight and closed her eyes to concentrate.

An unexpected knock startled her. Ari felt nauseous and slightly dizzy, because she had focused on her energy too much and was suddenly interrupted. She grabbed hold of the workbench to steady herself and looked toward the door. Arlos had already walked into her workshop with an air of assertiveness. He seemed to be very pleased with himself and Ari grumbled inwardly. This time of his daily visits was not her favourite part of the day. Ari inhaled deeply as he stepped closer to her.

"You look pale," he commented casually. He took a thorough look at her, eyeing her from head to toe.

Ari detested his intrusive behavior and right now she did not want to be in his presence at all.