The Tale of Anwyn, Part Nine: Return to the Wood

1

Several days later, Legolas and Anwyn, dressed in shining silver, mounted two horses and set off in the direction of Mirkwood. Leisurely, they made their way across the countryside, making up for lost days. Legolas made crowns of elanor and niphredhil for Anwyn as she sang songs for him in the moonlight; they swam in the rivers and ran laughing through fields like careless children. Finally, after days of traveling, they came upon the borders of Mirkwood.2

They left their horses at the stables with Amrod and went straight to the throne room where Thranduil and Astalohtar were sitting.3

"May I announce," said Maidhon, beaming, "Legolas and Anwyn of Mirkwood."4

"Legolas!" Thranduil exclaimed, springing up from his throne. "Anwyn!"5

A smile spread across Legolas' face. "Hello, Father."6

Lomewen and Caladwen came running in from the next room. 7

"Anwyn!" Lomewen cried out. 8

"My lord." Caladwen bowed to Legolas. Then, to Anwyn, with a brilliant smile: "My lady." Anwyn laughed and embraced Caladwen.9

Thranduil held his beaming son by the shoulders. "My son... my son."10

Legolas' eyes twinkled. "Father, this is Anwyn."11

Thranduil smiled. "I know."12

A broad grin crept across Anwyn's lips. "I told you I'd bring back your prince."13

"And so you did," Thranduil said, his face still bright. "Anwyn, you would make a fine Queen of Mirkwood someday. Of course... the two of you would have to wed..."14

Legolas and Anwyn exchanged smiles. "We certainly plan to," Legolas replied.15

"Then let us send messengers," said Thranduil. "Surely several will want to bear witness to this chapter in your story. It shall surely be set with the tales of Beren and Lúthien and Aragorn and Arwen."16

Anwyn stepped forward. "With your permission, my lord, I would like for Legolas and I to personally bring my father and brother from Thandor to Mirkwood."17

"Of course," replied Thranduil. "They are most welcome."18