Story Downloaded from Open Scrolls Archive (https://www.openscrolls.net)
Title: Yalúmessë (#823)
Author: Concetta
Chapters: 8
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Archive: Tolkien
Category: The Silmarillion
Description: The meeting of Galadriel and Celeborn and how they fell in love, although neither of them had planned to, especially not with each other.
Published: 17 Apr 2004
Updated: 27 Sep 2004
Warnings: Husband and Wife material
Type: Romance
Characters: Galadriel; Celeborn; Finrod
Chapter 1 - The Meeting
A/N: Hi all! This is my first attempt at writing a Celeborn and Galadriel fan-fic. I hope y’all like it!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The Meeting
Sunlight streamed through the trees and shone on the glowing figures of two elves on horseback.
“Do think this is a good idea, Findaráto?” A female elf with golden hair asked the male elf with the same radiant hue on his head, who was riding beside her.
“Where else can we go, Artanis?”
That silenced the golden elf-maid for a while. She sat deep in thought.
“Artanis?”
“Hm?”
“What has thee so quiet all of a sudden? Usually you would have sent me a witty yet stinging reply by now.”
//You know very well what has me so quiet// Artanis’ voice came inside Findaráto’s head.
//Yes, I do. For it is also in my mind// he thought back, //ai, my dear sister, there was little we could have done to stop him at Alqualondë. Though, if I had a chance now he would be stalking the Halls of Mandos!//
Artanis looked at her brother sharply. //But, then you would be no better than Feänor and his dark heart. You would have the same guilt on your hands as he has on his//
Findaráto sighed. //I know, I know. You are right, as usual, Nerwen//
Artanis stiffened and shot her brother a glare. //Findaráto, thou knows’t full well of my deep dislike of that name!//
Findaráto only smiled.
//You are so aggravating sometimes, which I am sure you are aware of//
//What? Mother gave you the name ‘man-maiden’ because you fight so well, often beating me and you have always had an air of supreme independence about you//
//No, it is because I am so unusually tall for an elf maiden that I reach the height of most elf-men, and even over some// Artanis sighed. //If I were to find a male elf even an inch or so taller than I, I should be well pleased//
//That would be a very tall elf indeed!//
Artanis threw her brother a glare, but it did hold a gleam of amusement in it as well. //Thou art lucky to be out of striking distance, brother//
Findaráto laughed but then suddenly stiffened. //We are being watched//
//Did’st thou not notice that?//
Findaráto shook his head.
//We have been under close watch ever since we entered the wood// Artanis answered. Suddenly her eyes widened and her senses became fully alert.
//Someone is coming!//
Findaráto winced at her exclamation inside his head.
They then heard the stretching of bowstrings and their gaze flew to the archers that sat in the boughs of the trees, waiting for a single signal. From behind the trees more archers appeared and surrounded Artanis and Findaráto.
From their midst came an elf clad in robes of white and sky blue. He was tall and his head glowed with the sunlight as it intertwined with his silver hair. His shoulders were broad and robes could not hide his strong build. His features were finely chiseled as well. His eyes of blue and gray looked over the two Noldor with something of slight dislike. But, then suddenly, he bowed.
“Hail, Lord Findaráto and Lady Artanis of Aman, son and daughter of Finarfin
of Aman. None pass through the Girdle of Melian uninvited and live.”
Artanis’ gazed flicked to the drawn archers on the ground. She singled one of them out under her gaze.
//I am not afraid of you//
The elf’s eyes widened, but that was the only indication of his surprise, his aim did not waver.
“Fortunately,” the silver headed elf continued, “you are expected.”
Findaráto started and stole a glance at his sister. Her gaze was cool and her countenance indifferent. “She told you this?”
“Yes, but I would not have needed her saying so to know. You would never have been able to find this place without her accepting your presence”
Teleporno signaled to the archers and they lowered their weapons. “I am Teleporno, kin to Elwë, whom we call Thingol.” Artanis then noticed that this Teleporno’s voice harbored a slight accent.
“Elen síla lumenn’ omentielvo,” Artanis said with graceful politeness and nodded her head. Teleporno bowed in answer.
“If you will follow me,” Teleporno said once he straightened, “I will lead you to the palace.”
“Hantanyel,” said Findaráto.
The entire party moved forward on Teleporno’s signal.
Artanis idly watched her surroundings as they marched solemnly along. She gazed at the trees and noticing the trees seemed greener and lusher since they passed through the Girdle of Melian. They were bright, though not as brilliant as the one’s they left behind in Valinor. If she felt any pangs of homesickness at this thought, it was only for the trees. She had always desired to go abroad and would have been glad to now be doing so, if it were not for the great pain lying heavily on her heart.
Out of the corner of her eye Artanis saw the sun glinted off the silvery hair of Teleporno. Since she had nothing better to do, she focused her sights on him. Artanis did not know why, but she found herself suddenly curious as to what he was thinking at the moment. With a mischievous gleam in her eye she reached mentally out to him. Artanis felt her thoughts entering his, but before she could hear anything she was suddenly shut out and thrown back!
Artanis swayed in her saddle a little.
//Nerwen, are you alright?// her brother’s anxious voice came into her head. //What happened?//
//I . . . I am not sure. All I know is it was something that was never before//
Findaráto gave her a quizzical look but did not question. Artanis turned her sights back to Teleporno and was shocked when he looked back over his shoulder at her. A saucy side smile appeared on his face. Then he turned back.
Ire rose in Artanis’ breast. Embarrassment stained her cheeks and she decided right then and there that she did not like this Teleporno. She did not like him at all.
At least, that’s what she told herself.
*~*~*~*~*
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*****
Notes:
Yalúmessë: “Once Upon a Time”
Findaráto: The Quenya form of Finrod.
Artanis: Galadriel’s father-name
Teleporno: The Quenya form of Celeborn
“Elen síla lumenn’ omentielvo”: A star shines upon the hour of our meeting. Q (Quenya)
“Hantanyel”: Thank-you. Q
Chapter 2 - Thingol and Melian
Thingol and Melian
The party came to the mouth of a giant cave. The entrance was barred with two giant double doors of dark wood. Both were intricately carved with depictions of the Valar and the awakening of the Elves on the shores of Aman.
Teleporno moved to the doors and, raising his right hand he lightly rested it on them. Then with a loud voice he cried, “Edro!”
The large doors silently opened. Artanis was not impressed in the least and was anxious to get inside and even more anxious to get away from this arrogant elf named Teleporno.
The elf guards departed then to resume their posts and the party went forward into Menegroth.
They were not but four feet inside when a dark-haired elf came to greet them.
“Mae govannen,” he said. Artanis looked blankly at him.
//Oh, why did I not bother to learn this speech? And why did not you, Findaráto?// Her brother shrugged.
“Suilaid, Tathar,” Teleporno said to the elf.
“Suilaid, Hîr Celeborn,” Tathar answered with a bow.
Teleporno then turned back to them. “He says: ‘greetings.’” For I understand that you do not know the tongue of the Grey-Elves. That is why I greeted you in the language of Valinor, which I took great pains to study and it took me a very long time to master it.
“This is Tathar. He is the head of our stables and will take charge of your horses for you.”
“Thank-you,” said Findaráto. Tathar bowed and waited for the travelers to dismount.
Teleporno moved to Artanis’ side as she prepared to get off. “May I assist you, my lady?”
“No you may not,” she answered coolly. “I am quite capable of dismounting on my own. I don’t need the help of some dark elf.”
Teleporno visibly stiffened. “Very well,” his voice came out hard and mocking, “whatever pleases thee.”
//Nerwen!// Her brother’s scolding voice came into her head. //Watch what you say! Our lives depend on staying on the good side of everyone here. We don’t want cause of suspicion!//
//I am sorry, brother. It is just that elf, he aggravates me//
Findaráto rolled his eyes and said nothing in response. Once he slid off his horse he linked Artanis’ arm with his and the walked together down the hall behind Teleporno.
Findaráto looked around at the details carvings and paintings all along the hall. Pillars were soon seen as they entered the main hall. Carvings of delicate ivy spiraled up them and even little butterflies were added on a leaf or two.
//What I would give for a place like this to call my own// He said to his sister.
//A place to call my own, yes. But not in a cave. Someplace open. I deeply desire to rule someplace of my own, to watch over whoever would choose to dwell there//
“Lord Celeborn,” Artanis called out.
Teleporno glanced over his shoulder and automatically answered. “Yes?”
“So, that is your true name.”
“It is.”
“What does it mean,” asked her brother.
“Silver-tree.”
“It is a beautiful language,” Findaráto said, “I should like to learn it.”
//Traitor// Artanis glared at him.
Findaráto only smiled. “Out of curiousity, what would my name be in your tongue?”
Celeborn thought for a moment then answered over his shoulder, “Your name would be ‘Finrod.’”
“Finrod . . .” Findaráto repeated. “I like it. It’s short and to the point. I think I prefer that name, in all honesty.”
//Findaráto!// Artanis yelled. Her brother shrugged and then smiled.
//It’s Finrod, now//
Artanis glared at him. He enjoyed vexing his baby sister every now and then
//What? I like it. I don’t why you have to be so stubborn. It’s the same name, just in a different way//
//I shall always call you Findaráto, whether you prefer it or not//
Whatever Artanis was about to say next was cut off by their reaching two double doors. Two guards were posted on either side of them.
“Greetings, Lord Celeborn,” one of them said. “They are ready to greet them.” “Hannon le,” the silver haired elf replied as they proceeded to open the doors for them.
Finrod and Artanis caught their breath when they entered the throne room. It was large and circular with many pillars surrounding it. Pillars just as intricately carved as the last. Beautiful murals adorned the walls and ceiling. The walls depicted the scenery of Valinor. The forests, woods and waterfalls, and where the torchlight shone brightest there was painted the Two Trees. The ceiling was a dark blue and dotted with stars painted by Melian herself. Banners also hung from the ceiling and golden tapestries adorned the parts of the walls that were un-painted.
“Greetings!” Thingol said warmly, rising from his chair. Artanis saw a lady quietly rise from her seat beside and put down the embroidery she had been working on. She was by far the fairest lady ever to grace Beleriand. Dark like night was her hair, but blue and clear were her eyes. And though the gaze was gently they pierced Artanis when she looked at her and her brother. She felt naked under her sight, as if her soul was being laid bare and she instinctively crept closer to her brother.
“Come,” said Thingol “let me look at you.” He stepped down from his throne and lovingly grasped Finrod by the shoulders. “Yes, indeed you are my brother’s grandson,” he said with satisfaction. “And you . . .” He moved to Artanis. Artanis lowered her head, but Thingol put his knuckle under her chin and gently made her look up. “You have the beauty of your mother, my niece, Eärwen, and even more so, I believe.”
Artanis blushed and smiled. It would not be hard getting to like her uncle. He was all friendliness and much of her nervousness was put at ease. Until Melian stepped forward. But soon her nerves on that point were put to ease, for Melian received her like a sister and Artanis did not again feel the piercing sight of the Maia.
After the general greetings were over Melian took Celeborn aside. “I want you to keep a close eye on the lady Artanis while their visit lasts. I sense that something is wrong. Some shadow rests on their hearts and I feel it most in Artanis. Engage her in conversation as much as you can until she grows comfortable enough to perhaps tell you something of it, or better yet, to confide in me.”
“I beg pardon, my lady, but must I be the one to do it? For I would really rather not. She abhors my company and I abhor hers, and all of this was found out in the course of only thirty minutes!”
At this Melian laughed. “I would not be too sure, my dear Celeborn. She may have cold and proud exterior, but underneath all that she is quite otherwise, I have sensed it.”
Celeborn gave a resigned sigh, “very well, but you know I shant like it one bit!” He moved away muttering something about “blasted Noldor,” when Melian called out loud enough for all to hear: “Celeborn?”
“Yes, your majesty?”
“Please show our guests to their rooms.”
Celeborn almost gaped at Melian but restrained himself and grudgingly marched off to do her bidding.
“Darned Maia . . .” he thought.
Melian laughed again. //I heard that//
*~*~*~*~*~*
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Chapter 3 - The Tiny Spark that Lights the Fire
Artanis sat comfortably on the edge of a fountain in the gardens of Melian reading a book. Her rooms she had found to be quite nice and accommodating, Finrod had found his the same but, had more to say about it.
“This place is absolutely magnificent!”
“If you like caves . . .” Artanis said sourly.
“I think they’re growing on me.”
Artanis looked up from her book at her brother. “What is happening to you?”
“Hm?”
“Hopefully our brothers will join us soon, and knock some sense back into you.”
“Why do you not like this place so?”
“It is not so much the place, but a certain elf in it.”
“Ah . . .” Finrod nodded, a knowing grin crossing his face.
Artanis glared at her brother. “He is absolutely the most arrogant and incorrigable elf I have ever met!”
“Methinks, dear sister, thou hast a little flame for him in your heart,” her brother said, teasingly tugging on one of her golden tresses.”
“I would rather wed a balrog!” Artanis declared passionately. “The only flame I bear for him is the fire of scorn.”
“’Tis a pity for he is coming this way.”
Artanis groaned. She would have gotten up and left but put a restraining hand upon her shoulder. “Be pleasant, please!” he urged her quietly. Artanis heard the desperate tone in his voice.
“Very well. For our sakes I will try.”
“Good. Suilad, Lord Celeborn!”
Artanis shot her brother a glare mixed with what seemed a bit of a look of betrayal.
//You are learning their language?//
//It is really very simple, in fact, in comparison to ours, a lot easier to master//
//Then it must not be a language of accomplishment//
Finrod gave his sister a look of warning before greeting Lord Celeborn who had finally arrived and stood before them.
“And good day to you, Lord Finrod. I am pleased to see you.” Celeborn added silently, “I wish I could say as much for your sister.” The silver lord mentally grimaced.
“Well,” Finrod said, “I have some business to attend to, if you will excuse me.”
Artanis hid her scowl behind the book, which she had picked back up again. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Celeborn sit down beside her.
“What are you reading?”
“Be pleasant . . .” she reminded herself. “At the moment, a lay dedicated to the Two Trees of Valinor.”
“Telperion and Laurelin.”
“Yes.”
Celeborn noted an expression of despair cross her face and his heart softened. “I wish I had seen it.”
Artanis’ turned to him, a flash of arrogance came through her, “that is why you are Moriquendi.”
Anger boiled in Celeborn but, he bit down the sharp remark that was in his mouth. “She is never going to tell me anything if all we do is quarrel,” he thought.
As he gazed at her, he saw the arrogance vanish and it was replaced by a look of anguish as she turned from him.
The anger he had held against her immediately cooled. He was suddenly finding it hard to stay mad at her for a prolonged period of time. He felt a great inclination to do something that would make her smile, something he had not seen ever since he had first laid eyes on her.
Hesitatingly he moved forward and touched the back of her hand. Artanis whirled around. He saw that a few tears had fallen down her cheeks. Celeborn gave her a warm smile and Artanis was quite startled at this sudden change.
“Come,” he said softly, taking her hand. “I want to show you something.”
*~*~*~*~*~*
Artanis looked up in absolute rapture at the work of art. A great replica of the Two Trees stood before her. Laurelin in gold and Telperion in silver. Tears came to Artanis’ eyes as she slowly moved up to it. A single shaft of light came down through a hole in the domed roof of the room, which had smooth walls and was circular in shape.
“Hannon le, Celeborn,” she whispered. “Hannon le.”
Celeborn came up and stood silently next to her. They stayed that way for quite some time, neither speaking, just looking up at the trees.
It was Artanis who broke the silence first. She let out a great sight shuddering sigh. Then turned to Celeborn, a small light of curiousity flashing in her bright blue eyes.
“Celeborn . . .”
“Yes?” he answered without looking at her.
“Why did you bring me here?”
“I . . .” he tried to think up something, but then decided to be candid in his answer. “I was hoping in some way that it would to ease your sorrow . . . That you are in a house of elves who care for you.”
“Do you care for me, Celeborn?”
The elf lord was thoroughly startled by this unexpected question and was not sure of the answer. Did he care for her?
Before he could reply a servant stepped into the room. “Lord Celeborn, Lady Artanis, I have come to bid you to dinner.”
“Thank you,” said Celeborn. He offered his arm to Artanis. She looked up at him and he felt himself being in want of air. Her beauty had intensified ten-fold.
She was smiling.
*~*~*~*~*
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Chapter 4 - Fair-Play
Fair-Play
Artanis could not help stealing a few glances at Celeborn who sat across the table from her. The candlelight shone warmly on his silver hair and in his soft gray eyes.
“Lord Finrod,” Thingol’s voice broke Artanis’s thoughts.
“Yes, your highness?”
“When are your brothers due to arrive?”
“In a months-time, my lord.”
Thingol nodded silently.
//Nerwen, why do you keep looking at Lord Celeborn?//
Artanis was startled out of her thoughtfulness and she turned her mind to her brother.
//I was trying to figure something out. And I was not looking at him. I was staring at nothing in particular over his shoulder//
//All is well, Artanis, do not get so defensive//
//I am not being defensive//
“Are you well, Lady Artanis?” Celeborn asked, seeing her frown.
Artanis’s attention switched to him and she grew angry with herself for being so obvious. “I am fine,” she answered. Celeborn gave her an odd look before he resumed eating.
“What is happening to me?” Artanis wondered.
*~*~*~*~*
The late evening found Artanis wandering down the halls toward Lord Celeborn’s chambers. She did not know what possessed her to go. Before she was even aware that she was going in that direction she was already halfway there. Artanis rapped gently on the door.
No response.
She tried again.
Nothing still.
Artanis then boldly opened the door and peeked inside. From what she could see of his chambers, it was well organized and finely decorated. There were two swords on the farthest wall. There was a large shelf full of scrolls and books, which suggested he was more into the art of lore than of war.
“I wonder how skilled of a warrior he is . . .”
“Skilled enough to hold my own.”
Artanis jumped and whirled around to find herself pinned by Celeborn’s cool, silver gaze. Her fascination with the room had distracted her from sensing the elf lord’s approach.
Artanis quickly regained her composure. “Would you be willing to test that, my Lord Celeborn?”
Celeborn raised an elegant eyebrow. “Is that a challenge, my lady?”
“It is.”
“Then I accept.”
“I will meet you in the practice room in ten minutes,” said Artanis.
“I will be ready in five.”
“Five minutes, then!” Artanis cried and turned on her heel towards her chambers to change.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
When Artanis arrived in the practice room she found Celeborn already there and waiting. He wore a leather jerkin and leather strips sewn together protected his shoulders.
Artanis found herself gazing in awe at the scholar-like man who now looked like a wonder in just leather armor. She was afraid to think of him in full armor lest she melt altogether.
Artanis had donned her usual dark blue riding habit for that was all she had that gave her the greatest amount of freedom in her movements. It consisted of riding breeches and a long dress tunic that stopped a little below her calves.
Celeborn looked her over. He hated to admit that she still looked stunning, even in breeches and a tunic.
Artanis noticed that the sword he was holding was one of the swords from his wall. She looked at her own sword, a regular elven blade.
“What is the name of your sword?” Celeborn asked, for he suddenly had the urge to stall this confrontation.
“Nindénarë. Yours?”
“Atha'lân.”
Artanis nodded quietly then put herself in a ready stance. “Are you prepared, my lord?”
Celeborn followed suit. “Always, my lady.”
Artanis began the assault with a thrust, which Celeborn parried with very little effort. Artanis and Celeborn were well matched. Celeborn almost beat the sword out of Artanis’s hand and she admitted to herself that he was indeed a great swordsman.
The match went for almost a half-hour. Finally, when she ducked a swipe from Atha'lân, Artanis kicked Celeborn’s feet out from under him.
Celeborn hit the ground with a thud. But, before he could even lift his head Artanis was on top of him with her sword pointed at his throat.
They sat there panting for what seemed to be hours. Artanis glared down at Celeborn who only looked back up at her in shock.
“That was not very sporting.”
“Orcs are not ones to concern themselves with sport.”
“Are you calling yourself an orc?” Celeborn said with a grin.
“How child-like of you! No, I was not. I was just pointing out the fact that on the battle-field you cannot fight fairly with an orc."
“I would not let myself be so easily beaten if I was fighting an orc.”
“Oh, really?”
Suddenly, Artanis was shoved to the ground and Celeborn was straddling her with his sword poised at her throat.
“I was not fighting as I would with an orc. I was fighting as I would with, Eru forbid, a fellow elf.”
Artanis’s expression darkened. Celeborn caught it and made a mental note of it. But, whatever concern was whirling about his head at the moment was gone, for he felt Artanis’s soft hand begin to travel up his thigh.
He swallowed hard. “What are you doing?” he asked in a choked voice.
“Oh, nothing in particular . . .” Artanis purred.
Celeborn then felt her legs move under him. His breathing became labored and he broke into a sweat when she put her legs up against his torso.
“Nan Belain . . .” he whispered hoarsely. *
Artanis graced him with a slow and suggestive smile, then suddenly Celeborn’s world went upside down and he found himself once again, on the floor, at the mercy of Artanis’s sword.
“You have been defeated,” she said proudly, then swiftly got up, leaving Celeborn on the floor in a daze and wondering to himself what had just happened.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Nan Belain: By the Valar.
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Chapter 5 - Trying to Relieve the Burden
A/N: Sorry it’s been so long!
The night was calm as usual in the Hidden Kingdom. The moon shone brightly as did the stars. The night found King Thingol sat on the edge of his bed. His shoulders tense with worry. Suddenly, he felt the soft hands of his wife knead into the taut muscles and he began to relax.
“Meleth nín, whatever is the matter?” asked Melian.
“Darkness is ever on the increase . . . sometimes I worry if our kingdom will survive it.”
“Dear, you have the protection of a Maia . . . by Girdle will always be able to protect this land.”
Thingol only sighed. “I know, meleth, I know . . .” But, still something in his heart unsettled him. “But it is not Morgoth I have a nagging feeling about, not this time . . .”
“I have sensed it, too, Elwë. I believe it has something to do with Lord Finrod and Lady Artanis. I have sensed something ominous since they directed their sights to Doriath. That is why I had Celeborn try and get the information out of her. I know something dreadful has happened in Valinor, I just wish I knew exactly what.”
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
What had just happened in the practice room? The question would not leave Celeborn’s mind. He walked down the halls of Doriath without a thought of where he was going. Suddenly, he found himself about to walk into Queen Melian who had been coming down the same hall, toward her husband’s chambers.
“Celeborn, where is your head this evening?” she asked with an amused smile.
“I beg your pardon, my lady. Right now, I do not know where it is.”
Melian sighed, “Celeborn, you should know by now that it is futile to lie to a Maia.”
Celeborn’s face reddened. “I-I . . . was thinking about Artanis.”
Melian raised an interested eyebrow. “Really? Have you found out what she is hiding?”
“No, my lady.”
“Then I suggest you find her right now and have a nice long talk,” she gave his elbow a reassuring pat. Celeborn winced. Melian frowned and looked him over.
“You’ve had a sparring match recently with Lady Artanis.”
“How—?”
Melian deftly plucked a golden strand off his shoulder, then handed it to him with a smile.
“Good luck.” And with that, she continued down the hall.
Celeborn stood there for a moment, his eyes transfixed on the radiant strand that he held between his fingertips. He found himself wondering what it would be like to comb his fingers through the entire thing. A gentle grin tugged at his lips.
“Galad . . .” he whispered to himself then tucked the strand in the folds of his robe. (Radiance)
Fire was all about her, an elf with light hair and glowing eyes stood poised over another elf, a helmsman. The light haired elf’s sword was raised and then brought down.
Artanis started awake, he eyes refocusing on her surroundings. She had fallen asleep in the garden over her book and had a dream. Artanis shook her head and angrily wiped away the tears that threatened to fall.
“Artanis?”
The lady whipped around, startled. It was Lord Celeborn. Something in her stomach dropped.
“Good evening,” she managed to say coolly.
“Good evening,” he replied back, with a respectful nod of his head. Celeborn hesitated for a moment at the idea of approaching her. Even after their sparring match, she looked to him as one remarkably beautiful and untouchable, even for an elf.
“Are you just going to stand there and stare at me all evening, or did you have something you wished to say?” Artanis said irritably. What was wrong with this elf? A stray tear suddenly slipped down her cheek. Artanis gasped. The last thing she wanted Celeborn to see her as was vulnerable. The only man who had ever seen her thus was her brother, and seldom had he seen her thus.
“Lady Artanis!” Celeborn cried, with concern as he quickly moved to sit by her side on the stone bench. She immediately turned her face away from him. Celeborn swallowed nervously then reached out and gently placed a finger on the other side of her face, turning her gaze to him.
“Artanis,” he asked softly, “what is the matter?”
The lady opened her mouth and her gaze softened for a moment then, just as quickly, it hardened. Artanis sprang to her feet.
“It is none of your concern,” she said firmly. Celeborn stood up before Artanis and quite near her, too.
“I want to make it my concern.” The words had tumbled out of his mouth before he could have stopped them.
Artanis’ eyes widened for a moment, thorough surprise evident in them.
“I-I mean, I wish to make it my concern because I-I know that when something is troubling me, it relieves the burden by telling my trouble to someone.”
Artanis visibly relaxed, but her eyes held something . . . what was it? Disappointment, perhaps?
“Thank-you, my lord. But, no thank-you, I am fine. I do not need to ‘relieve the burden’ because there is no burden to be relieved.”
But, Celeborn would not be shaken off so easily. “Ah, but there is, my lady. Why will you not tell me? I only wish to help.”
“Because I am not willing to share personal stories with a man I hardly know! And who I know I do not hold any fondness for!” And with that she stormed out of the garden and back into the palace.
Celeborn was left standing alone and staring after her. He slowly reached into his robes and pulled out the glinting strand of Artanis’ hair.
“ . . . Riel . . .” (garlanded maiden)
------------------------------------------------
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Chapter 6 - Union
"It was the act of bodily union that achieved marriage...it was at all times lawful for any of the Eldar, both being unwed, to marry thus of free consent one to the other without ceremony or witness…in flight and exile and wandering, such marriages were often made."
– This is from an essay by Tolkien about his Elves’ lifestyles, just to give explanation that, no, I’ve not changed my mind on my conviction that sex before marriage is wrong.
“What! Where did you say you were going?” Artanis had found her brother heading for the stables with a traveling sack over his shoulder.
“I told you, dear sister, I went before King Elwë and Queen Melian and was granted permission to explore the caves of Nargothrond.”
Artanis grasped Finrod’s sleeve. “But, why? Why do want to leave me here all alone?”
Finrod sighed and took his sister gently by the shoulders. “Nerwen, you know I have been desiring a realm of my own for many ages. I believe I have found a way to fulfill that desire. It is here. In this land of our exile.”
Artanis nodded, a tear sliding down her cheek. She was familiar with the feeling.
“Now, now, none of that,” Finrod said softly but, firmly, wiping the tears from her eyes. “I will not have you weeping.”
“Nai i Valar nauvar as elyë,” Artanis cried, throwing her arms around her brother in a strong embrace. (May the Valar be with you)
“And also with you, Nerwen.” Then Finrod gently extricated himself from Artanis’ embrace and mounted his horse.
“Namárië!” He called to her as he galloped off.
“Namárië . . .” she answered, watching as her brother rode off and was soon engulfed in the blackness of the fallen night.
- - - ---------------------------------------
Artanis walked back to her chambers feeling listless and lonely. She wondered how her other brothers Orodreth, Angrod, and Aegnor were faring in the lands east.
As she sat down on her bed a cool breeze touched her face, reminding her briefly of the terrible trek through the bitterest North where so many of her people were lost. Artanis shook the thoughts from her head, lay down and slept.
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“Turgon! Turgon, stop!” The elf stilled his running but only to fall on his knees. Artanis and Finrod caught up with Turgon and knelt in the snow beside him.
“She is gone! Elenwë . . . meldanya Elenwë . . .” (my dear) Turgon doubled over and wept. Artanis felt his grief well up inside her. She stepped back when suddenly she heard the sharp crack of ice and felt the ground give way. Icy water enveloped her and she struggled to get back to the surface but the ice had closed over the brake, sealing her off.
“No!” Artanis yelled, ice water filled her mouth and she felt herself sink.
It was then that she woke up. Her pillow was drenched with her tears. “The time in the Helcaraxë is over,” Artanis told herself and she began to calm down, though it did not relieve the sorrow on her heart.
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A month or so passed. Messengers came from Finrod to Artanis telling her that he was well and that he had become great friends with the dwarves who resided in Nargothrond.
Artanis had taken to talking to Melian for many hours in the day and many times it was in the presence of Thingol. “They would speak together of Valinor and the bliss of old; but beyond the dark hour of the death of the Trees Artanis would no go, but ever fell silent. And on one time Melian said: ‘There is some woe that lies upon you and your kin. That I can see in you, but all else is hidden from me; for by no vision or thought can I perceive anything that passed or passes in the West: a shadow lies over all the land of Aman, and reaches out over the sea. Why will you not tell me more?’
‘For that woe is past,’ said Artanis; ‘and I would take what joy is here left, though still hope may seem bright.’
Then Melian looked in her eyes, and said: ‘I believe not that the Noldor came forth as messengers of the Valar, as was said at first: not though they came in the very hour of our need. For they speak never of the Valar, nor have their high lords brought any message to Thingol, whether Manwë, or Ulmo, or even from Olwë the King’s brother, and his own folk that went over the sea. For what cause, Artanis, were the high people of the Noldor driven forth as exiles from Aman? Or what evil lies on the sons of Fëanor that they are so haughty and so fell? Do I not strike near the truth?’
‘Near,’ said Artanis; ‘save that we were not driven forth, but came of our own will, and against the Valar for this purpose we came: to take vengeance upon Morgoth, and regain what he stole.’
Then Artanis spoke to Melian of the Silmarils, and of the slaying of Kind Finwë at Formenos; but still she said no word of the Oath, nor of the Kinslaying, nor of the burning of the ships at Losgar. But Melian said: ‘Now much you tell me, and yet more I perceive. A darkness you would cast over the long road from Tirion, but I see evil there, which Thingol should learn for his guidance.’
‘Maybe,’ said Artanis; ‘but not of me.’
And Melian spoke no more of these matters with Artanis; but she told King Thingol all that she had heard of the Silmarils. ‘This is a great matter,’ she said, ‘greater indeed than the Noldor themselves understand; for the Light of Aman and the fate of Arda lie locked now in these thing, the work of Fëanor, who is gone. They shall not be recovered, I fortell, by any power of the Eldar; and the world shall be broken in battles that are to come, ere they are wrested from Morgoth. See now! Fëanor, they have slain, and many another, as I guess; but first of all the death they have brought and yet shall bring was Finwë your friend. Morgoth slew him, ere he fled from Aman.’
Then Thingol was silent, being filled with grief and foreboding; but at length he said: ‘Now at last I understand the coming of the Noldor out of the West, at which I wondered much before. Not to our aid did they come (save by chance); for those that remain in Middle-earth the Valar will leave to their own devices, until the uttermost need. For vengeance and redress of their loss the Noldor came. Yet all the more sure shall they be as allies against Morgoth with whom it is not now to be thought that they shall ever make treaty.’
But Melian said: ‘Truly for these causes they came; but for others also. Beware of the sons of Fëanor! The shadow of the wrath of the Valar lies upon them; and they have done evil, I perceive, both in Aman and to their own kin. A grief but lulled to sleep lies between the princes of the Noldor.’
And Thingol answered: ‘What is that to me? Of Fëanor I have heard but report, which makes him great indeed. Of his sons I hear little to my pleasure; yet they are likely to prove the deadliest of foes of our foe.’
‘Their swords and their counsels shall have two edges,’ said Melian; and afterwards they spoke no more of this matter.”
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Celeborn paced back and forth in his chambers. Every now and then his silver eyes would rest on the strand of Artanis’ hair, which he had acquired a month back and had placed on his dressing table.
Melian had been asking again if any more information had come from Artanis. He had to tell her the truth. No. He did want to know himself what the rest of her great secret was; yet at the same time, he did not. How would it affect his feelings toward her if it were a great dark secret, as he feared? And what exactly were his feelings? He was afraid to delve into that right now. He had not been seeing much of Artanis these past few weeks. She had been keeping to herself in her chambers.
The Silver Lord had been having many dreams of late. Each dream was almost the same except there would be slight changes in each one. He would see Artanis sitting on a delicate chair next to him in a very large room and then the dream would disappear. On the next night he realized it was a talan. The night after that he reached across and laid his hand over Artanis’. A wave of contentment swept over him in his dream. He heard his voice murmur: “Galadriel.” And at that Artanis had turned and smiled dazzlingly at him, her gaze full of love. And in his last dream he held a baby elfling in his arms, it had wriggled and cooed. He had then looked over to his right to see Artanis lying in a bed looking exhausted but had a happy air, which intensified her Elven glow. Artanis spoke then: “Celebrían,” she said with a pensive smile.
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Celeborn gave up his pacing and left his chambers. He wandered mindlessly for a while; not realizing that his heart had taken control over his legs and was taking him down the corridor toward Artanis’ chambers.
Suddenly, he heard the plucking of harp-strings and decided he would go and see if it was perhaps, Artanis playing. It, most likely, was not, for it sounded as if the player was unskilled in the art.
Lord Celeborn made his way to the music room and quietly opened the door. He peeked in to see Artanis with one of the smaller harps on her lap, plucking experimentally at the strings.
“Ah, so it is you who is willingly making such a racket.”
“If that is what you would like to call my playing . . .” Artanis began to say, pretending to be hurt. Her despairing mood suddenly fell to the wayside and her spirits lightened at his presence. This quick change undoubtedly surprised her. “I was never very skilled in harp playing. Instead of learning and practicing the art of music, learning and practicing the art of weaponry took up all my time.”
“Well,” said Celeborn with a grin, “now is the time to learn.” The Silver Lord pulled a chair up and sat beside her. He spent the past few minutes showing her where to put her hands and such for certain chords.
Artanis found herself jumping each time his fingers touched hers. His hands were so soft and gentle . . . Celeborn had, of course, noticed her nervousness and wondered at it.
He showed her how to play a fairly easy piece and after she memorized it, which didn’t take to long, he told her it was actually an accompaniment.
“If you will play it again,” he said, standing up, “I can sing the melody with you, if you would like that.” It was a hesitant offer and he awaited her reply with a racing heart.
Artanis smiled. “Of course.” She started the piece again.
“She plays beautifully for a beginner,” he thought.
“I am quick to learn, my lord,” Artanis said with a smirk.
Celeborn was startled, to say the least. He had let his guard down and she had sucessfully read his mind! How much did she see? He was so disturbed by the fact that he put his hand over Artanis’ to still her playing.
She looked up at him, wondering if she had gone too far over his boundaries this time.
A thought occurred to Celeborn before he had a chance to speak. She was reading his mind . . . which meant she wanted to know what he was thinking . . . which meant she cared about what he thought . . . which could mean—
“Lord Celeborn?”
“Yes?”
“Is there something that you desire to say?” Artanis looked swiftly at the hand that was still over hers and then back at Celeborn.
“I . . . Why were you probing my thoughts?”
Now it was Artanis’ turn to be speechless. “I . . . I do not know, my lord . . . curiosity perhaps . . .”
“Perhaps . . .” Now Celeborn had a very wicked idea. It was time for a little payback. “Perhaps,” he continued, his hand closing over hers to hold it. “That is not all, I deem.”
“You presume much, my lord!” Artanis tried to pull her hand away but his grip tightened. She desperately wanted to feel offended, but could not. All she felt was . . . the anxiety of anticipation. “Of what?” she wondered.
Celeborn smoothly sat down beside her, close enough that their hips touched.
“My Lord Celeborn . . .” Artanis began to say. But, Celeborn put a finger over her lips. Then proceeded to stroke her hair.
Artanis gulped. She was finding it hard to breathe.
Celeborn drew her hair aside like a curtain, exposing her neck. He bent down and lightly kissed the base of it. He hated to admit it, but his pulse was racing at the moment and he way thoroughly enjoying himself.
“Celeborn . . .” she murmured with a gasp.
The silver lord found his heart jumping at the sound of her affected voice. Had he gone too far, perhaps? He leaned his mouth close to her ear. Artanis shivered at the sensation of his breath upon her earlobe. “I have had my revenge,” he whispered and rose from the chair.
Artanis sat staring at him in shock and when Celeborn looked into her eyes he saw pain and that smote his heart. But, he still forced himself to leave the room.
---------------------------
Celeborn had been in the midst of sleep when a furious knocking came upon his ears. He slowly got up and went to his chamber door.
Upon opening it he was greeted with the sight of a livid Artanis, standing in a white sleeping gown.
“How dare you!” she cried. Celeborn gulped. “How dare you do that to me!” And with one hand she pushed him so hard that he was forced to take a step backward. The Noldo advanced into his room. “No one makes a fool out of Artanis, daughter of Finarfin!”
“I—I—” Celeborn stammered. Artanis kept advancing and Celeborn kept retreating until he felt himself bump into the edge of his bed with his legs. He looked into her burning blue eyes and was startled to see tears forming in them.
“No one!” she hissed. But, then she suddenly sprang forward and wrapped her arms about the elven lord's neck.
Celeborn was so surprised that he lost his footing and fell backwards onto the bed.
Artanis looked down at Celeborn’s face. He looked very bewildered. She smiled. He was the most gorgeous elf she had ever laid her eyes on, and that was saying something. His silver hair lay disheveled about his head. She pulled a strand away from his forehead and kissed the spot she touched. Then Artanis proceeded to stroke his smooth face, from his temples to his chin. She could feel him breathing heavily against her.
Celeborn felt that his heart would expire at any moment. The next thing the silver-haired lord was aware of was the sensation of being kissed all over his face and neck. Whatever confusion he had been feeling dissolved into a joy so fierce that he even surprised himself. Artanis was kissing him and he realized that that was something he had been longing for, ever since he saw her crying in the garden.
Artanis had stilled her perusal of all the places around his mouth and passed a finger over his soft lips. Then, suddenly, she felt Celeborn’s arm move and his hand come to rest at the back of her head. Gently she felt him pull her head down. She smiled and their lips touched.
Their kisses were soft and tentative at first but soon they became faster, harder, more searching. Artanis felt Celeborn’s other hand run up and down her back, holding her in a tighter grip, which would then loosen and move back to her waistline.
When their lips parted, Celeborn still appeared and felt as confused as before. “Why the sudden change?” he asked.
Artanis bent her head down and nipped at his lips. “I could no longer ignore you. You have annoyed me more than any elf ever has; yet at the same time you have shown me such kindness. You understood and cared that day when you showed me the sculpture of Telperion and Laurelin.”
“I had a strong desire to see you smile. You took my breath away when you finally did.”
Artanis smiled and nuzzled her cheek into his chest. Celeborn gave a low groan of pleasure. The golden lady smiled again and slid her hand across the width of his chest. Then after a great intake of breath she said, “I love you.” She moved her head to see Celeborn’s face. His eyes were wide, yet they burned with the fiery passion that was fanned by her declaration.
“I love you,” he replied, barely containing the joy that was causing his hands to shake as he stroked Artanis’ hair. He knew now what those dreams meant, he knew now that Artanis was the one dear Ilúvatar had designed to be his companion for infinity. After he finished this thought he felt a tingling sensation in his head.
“And Ilúvatar made you for me,” Artanis said softly with a smile coupled with the expression of wonder on her face. She sat up and Celeborn followed suit.
“I want to bond my life with yours, Celeborn.”
“Oh, Artanis,” he sighed running a hand through her golden tresses. “And I, with joy, will bond my life with thee, meleth nín. Guren min gaim lín.” (my heart is in your hands)
“Melmenya,” (my love) Artanis placed a passionate kiss on Celeborn’s lips and he answered it eagerly with equal fervor.
Artanis’ nimble fingers undid the elegant knotted fastenings of Celeborn’s tunic. He helped her ease it off his shoulders and his arms. She sat back and admired his muscular upper body. Though scholary in mind Celeborn had the body of a warrior.
When Artanis finished her perusal she leaned forward and placed gentle kisses along chest. Artanis then leaned back again and got up off the bed and pulled the covers up to Celeborns waist.
“What are you planning to do, meleth?” He asked with an amused raise of an eyebrow.
“You will see,” was all Artanis said. She went to the foot of the bed, then, reached under the covers until her hands came in contact with the cuffs of his leggings. She grasped them and pulled. She felt them slide past his torso, then his knees then his calves, finally she had them dangling in her hand. She tossed them aside and they joined his tunic on the floor.
Artanis then walked around to the otherside of the bed, her whole body felt aflame as she locked her gaze with Celeborn’s as he watched her move. His silver eyes were afire and his chest was rising and falling with the anticipation. His tan-colored skin contrasted with the white sheets of the bedclothes.
Artanis took off her nightdress then slipped in beside Celeborn.
Celeborn moved over and raised himself up so he was poised over her. Artanis unhesitatingly opened up to him. “You will be my husband and my companion for all eternity. This I swear before the Valar” she whispered a jubilant smile on her face. Artanis wrapped her legs around Celeborn’s torso.
“And you shall be my wife and my companion for all eternity. This I swear before the Valar,” Celeborn answered, sheer elation coursing through his veins at the words. With that, the Silver Lord thrust into her and they became one flesh.
Artanis' happiness overrode the painful sensation of Celeborn's entry. As they moved together they shouted out each other's names. Soon they moved faster and faster over each other, until finally they collasped gasping but smiling.
Glowing in the holy intimacy created by Ilúvatar for male and female to share together.
Chapter 7 - The Morning After the Night Before
A/N: Sorry it took so long!
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The Morning After the Night Before
Artanis gave a content sigh as nestled against her husband’s chest. The morning sunlight bathed the two in golden hues as they lay together. Artanis’ movement aroused Celeborn.
“Good morning,” he said and raised a hand to stroke her hair.
They lay like that a long time, in silence, basking in the glow of their love, until Celeborn murmured something, a name:
“Galadriel . . .”
“What?”
“That is what I have decided to call you. Artanis and Nerwen do not suit you, to my mind. Galadriel . . .”
Artanis tried it on her tongue. “I love it,” she purred, a bright smile on her face. “From now on, I shall be known as Galadriel.”
Celeborn grinned and turning to his wife, he kissed her breath away. They would have gone on kissing for the rest of the morning if a servant had not knocked on the door.
“Yes?”
There was a pause before the servant spoke again. “The King and Queen wishes an audience with you in their chambers before breakfast.”
Celeborn and Galadriel exchanged nervous glances.
“I shall be there.”
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The silver lord and the golden lady walked down the hall together towards the royal chamber. The servants they passed stared at them, some with a startled countenance, some with a knowing smile. For, you see, elves can tell when another elf is married just by sight or hearing them speak.
When the two reached the door to the King and Queen’s chamber, Celeborn turned to his wife. He looked almost frightened.
“You must come with me, I cannot face it without you.”
Galadriel stroked his cheek and with a soft smile she responded. “Of course, melmenya.”
The couple entered the room.
Thingol turned to them and was about to speak when he stopped short. He and his wife, of course, noticed the difference. Melian put a hand to her chest and smiled. Thingol looked put out.
“Lady Artanis---.”
“Galadriel, my lord.”
“What?”
“I have decided upon a new name, I wish to be called Galadriel.”
Thingol looked confused and glanced at his wife who gave a delicate shrug.
“Uh . . . very well . . . Lady Galadriel, your brothers have arrived.”
Galadriel could barely suppress the cry of joy that was in her throat. “Thank you for informing me, my lord.”
“Now,” said the King, “about your marriage . . .”
“Forgive us, your majesty---”
“No, no, I have no objections . . . as of yet, I just cannot say the same for your brothers-in-law. Now go. Meet them.”
Celeborn and Galadriel hastily departed from the room.
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Chapter 8 - Kin
A/N: Sorry it’s been so long, but I just started college so I’ve been busy. And I’m sorry it’s so short, I’m seriously sleepy.
Kin
“Angrod! Finrod! Orodreth! Aegnor!” Galadriel ran to the open arms of her brothers. But, before they could embrace her they stopped short and marveled at her.
“Nerwen, you . . . you are bonded!” Orodreth cried.
Galadriel blushed and turned to see that Celeborn was lingering in the shadow of the doorway.
“Come, my husbad,” she beckoned gently. The silver lord stepped slowly out and was soon standing beside her.
“My Lord Celeborn!” Finrod exclaimed incredulously. “Well . . . this is quite a surprise!”
“You have become the wife of a Moriquendi!” Aegnor growled. Celeborn’s expression darkened, but he said nothing.
“Do not call him that!” Galadriel said in a low voice that heralded the calm before the storm. “They may not have witnessed the light of the Two Trees, but there is very little difference between us!”
Angrod put his arm around Galadriel to turn her away from Celeborn, but she stood unmoving like a rock. “Muinthel nín, he is not your equal! Why bond to such as he?”
“Because I love him!” she exclaimed. Galadriel felt Celeborn’s strong presence at her back and his hand as it slipped into her palm.
“My congratulations,” said Finrod, steeping away from his brothers to stand at the couple’s side.
“Findaráto, what are you doing?”
“I would think that you would be the first ones to promote peace between your fellow elves, what with all the strife that we have witnessed and is still raging.”
Celeborn finally spoke and though his words were quiet and calm, they pierced the hearts of Galadriel’s stubborn kin.
“I am honored to be called your brother.”
Before anyone could put in another word, a page came in.
“King Thingol bids you all to come to the throne room.”
Celeborn took his wife’s hand and they led the rest of their kin to the throne room.
“Naethen,” Orodreth murmured to Celeborn before he fell in step behind them.
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Muinthel nín: My sister
Naethen: I’m sorry.
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Printed from Open Scrolls Archive (https://www.openscrolls.net) on Sat Nov 14, 2026 8:12 pm