Written by
Zhie.
Rated PG. Work In Progress;
The main characters are Thranduil, Legolas, Ilmendin, and Haldir.
Orophin –
I regret not being able to speak these words to you. I am in Greenwood, where I have been appointed to rule in place of Thranduil due to the fact he is leaving for the sea. He is still here in Greenwood, and is remaining so for a short time to introduce me to the tasks I shall need to perform.
I know you are eager to help Ada in building East Lorien, but know that you are welcome to stay or live here in Greenwood if you so choose. Again, I apologize for such a hasty departure, but I am greatly needed here.
I hope your journey to Imladris went well and that Rumil is living happily in the silly city. I look forward to seeing both of my brothers again soon.
Love you as always,
Haldir
Orophin –
As many months have passed since my last correspondence to you without reply, I am regretfully assuming the messenger lost the letter I had sent. By now, you are aware that I will be assuming the role as Greenwood’s leader. In the letter seemingly undelivered, I mentioned that you would be most welcome here in Greenwood, as either visitor or citizen. That invitation extends to Valarda, as well.
I am missing the trees somewhat, yet this new environment holds some strange fascination for me. The culture, as well, differs from ours. Always I had expected this place to be stricter than Lothlorien, that the rules would be many and the punishments severe. But it would seem my long friendship with Legolas and all which I have read in my life did nothing but convey to me a false idea of what Greenwood truly is. I would hope you might come to see for yourself someday, but for now, I shall tell you of some of the more intriguing things about Greenwood.
Firstly, at times of meals, everyone is welcome to eat in the great hall. Whether dignitaries are present or it is just another day, nearly all are there. There is no prearranged seating, no specified table of honor. Thranduil must have sat in nearly every chair in the entire room thus far.
Also, no one makes appointment to speak with him. If there is an issue, it is brought to him at the earlier convenience. The problems here are few, but when they do arise, everyone is given leave to speak regarding it. There is no small counsel that makes such decisions, nor does he simply consult with his wife to come to a conclusion. Discussion is expected, and encouraged, even with the younger members of the kingdom. There are no elflings in Greenwood, and the youngest of the elflings are very capable and well trained, yet they still hold onto their youth with fierce passion.
A number of animals are also present in the caves. Cats, wolves, and even the horses are kept here. The cats and wolves take care of the spiders that dare lurk in the depths, while the horses could not have been left to roam the forest. Although the danger has passed now, it seems these creatures are reluctant to give up their homes in the tunnels just as the elves here are. Though I did bring forth the subject of rebuilding their homes in the trees, I was politely turned down by all of the residents.
If only you were still a bachelor, Oro. Unlike Lothlorien where the fairer sex was rarer to find, there is a delightful balance here. Let that be the temptation for you to come, if nothing else.
I miss you greatly, and Rumil as well. I have received word from him in Rivendell, and he is doing well, though I suppose you likely know that. Take care of yourself, my brother, and do send my regards to your wife. I am sure she is thrilled that she finally has the coveted title of Galadhrim Captain.
Love you as always,
Haldir
Orophin –
Valarda has written me to tell me of your displeasure with me for not waiting until your return to East Lorien, and your current hobby of cursing my name at each and every available moment. Had I but known how greatly this would affect you, I would have waited for some time before leaving. I wish you would not be so cross with me for my actions, for I know if the opportunity were to have been given to you, you would have taken it swiftly and without doubt. I remain, as ever, your dear brother, and hope you to be the same.
Love you as always,
Haldir
Orophin –
Valarda has written me to tell me of your newest activity of burning my letters before they have been unsealed. This seems to me to be a childish act. I have enclosed this letter within my letter to your wife in hopes it may arrive to you. Is this to end in the near future? What must I do for you to forgive me? It ails my heart to know you still feel ill toward me.
Love you as always,
Haldir
H. -
An apology would be nice.
- O.
Orophin –
I am truly and completely ashamed of my actions toward you. Never again shall I grieve you so. You have my utmost reassurances that such an act shall never again happen.
There. How’s that?
Love you as always,
Haldir
P. S. My coronation is coming up the month after next, and then Thranduil shall depart. Consider this your formal invitation. I would have sent you a fancy one, but I was afraid you might use it for target practice, and parchment isn’t cheap, you know.
H. –
I’ll consider it.
- O.
P.S. Love you too, Halli.
Continued...
Notes