'I am interested in themes about friendship and self-sacrifice. This is a
story of survival and courage, about a touching last stand that paved the
way for the ascent of humankind.'- Peter Jackson on The Lord of the Rings.
As the sound galloping hooves meets you ears, you turn just in time to have your hair swept over your face, and see a tall rider with long, blonde hair streaming behind him. Oh, how you wish you could leave the walls of Rivendell, to ride to places like Lothlorien, or Mirkwood. You have stayed in Eastern Eriador all your life. The most far away view you have seen is the Misty Mountains, and you have painted them a thousand times.
You continue to collect the fresh flowers of the niphredil. Messengers had often brought back cuttings from Lothlorien, and the pale, white flowers now bloomed around the entrance to Lord Elrond's house. Just as you finish a bouquet for Lady Arwen's Chamber, the head maid calls for a maid.
As you glide up the stairs to the grand hall, a servant appears at the door and points you in the direction of the courtyard. You nod and smile, before stepping through the tall, carved archway. You pause for a moment in the middle, staring at the stone flowers and vines.
You continue to walk into the courtyard, only to see the same tall rider with long hair, and again, the back of him. Your friend, Nympheria, taps your shoulder from behind.
"His name is Legolas, son of King Thranduil, of the woodland realm! Can you believe it? A Prince! From Mirkwood too, you see his bow? And those arrows, so skilful!"
You smile at her nervousness for she has made it clear he is good looking by her rosy cheeks, but you have yet to see for yourself. The head maid, who is welcoming the prince, calls for a maid once again and you scurry over, leaving Nympheria to drool.
"I trust Nympheria has filled you in on our new guest?" says Madame Lithinae (the head maid).
"Yes. Welcome to Rivendell...your highness," you say, bowing to the royal in front of you. When you return to a standing position, you think you are going to faint. In front of you, is the most beautiful creature you have ever seen in you entire life (which is a long time, as you are an elf).
A pair of sparkling turquoise eyes is staring into yours. Like the flowing river at night, they glowed with an un-earthly radiance. You followed the path down, over beautiful high cheekbones, to pale pinkish lips, succulent and full. Snapping you out of your trance, he spoke,
"Niphredil,"
It is one word, but it is enough to make you hyperventilate. You look down at the flowers in your hand and blush.
"Would it be at all possible if I could have some in my chamber?" he asks, his eyes searching your face.
"Of course your highness," says Madame Lithinae, "She will bring some up to your chamber after supper. Now, if you will be so kind as to follow me, I will show you to your room"
They walk to the other side of the courtyard, and just as he is about to disappear, you are sure he turns and looks at you.
You stand underneath the sun, the breeze whipping your face. Once again, you look at the flowers in your hands and realise you should put them in water.
Holding your long white dress above your knees, you tip toe up the stairs and stop at the door. You can hear voices inside, a man and...... Nympheria? You put your ear close to the door and listen.
"My dear, it had been a long time since I last saw your beautiful face,"
"Oh, stop, someone might hear us!" you hear Nympheria whisper through giggles.
"I don't care. I want the whole world to know about us, for I am in love with you, and that is the most precious thing in the world," the man says. Nympheria gives a small gasp, and the sounds of kissing slowly die away. Once you have made sure the coast is clear, you creep across the hall towards the staircase.
Your mind is racing with all sorts of thoughts when you find yourself outside Lady Arwen's bedchamber. A small knock on the door lets you know there is no one in there. Used to the beautiful surroundings, you take no time to look at the beautiful carved flowers on the ceiling, or the silk, pale drapes on the four-poster bed.
You place the flowers in a tall, glass vase and fill it with water from a jug. The flowers will last a long time, for the water in Rivendell is full of Mother Nature's care. As you turn to leave, you notice parchment lying on the bed. Being a maid, it is your instinct to clear it away.
As you pick up the many sheets of paper, one falls on to the floor. Putting the others on a shelf, you retrieve the missing bit and notice it is some form of diary, dated from this morning:
October 24th, 09:00am
Today, my lord came, for my father has called a meeting. It is my wish to marry him, but my father is against it. For he is a mortal man, and will die when old (or even before?) My dilemma is such a hard one. I am in love, and I will sacrifice everything for it. For when he is old and gone, I will still remember the day we first met, and be happy. I have made my choice, and tomorrow night, I will make it once again. Also, today my friend Prince Legolas arrived. It has been a while since we last met, and he has grown into the man I knew he would be one day. I must leave now, for it is time for luncheon. I will return later, but in the same position I am in now.
You never realised how unhappy Lady Arwen really was. She was always quiet, and spent a lot of time in the gardens, but seemed content with her life. You wonder who this Lord is, and if he felt the same.
A short bell rings and you remember that you were supposed to tend to the new arrivals. Their ears where pointed, so they could be related to elves somehow. You haven't seen their faces yet, and you are curious about what they look like.
You are to tend to the sick one, who is in his bed after something stabbed him. Tales have been floating about, but you are still unsure about what really happened at the watchtower.
Lady Arwen brought him on her horse, and he was in a bad state. You go into the breezy hallway in which his room lays and knock on the door.
"Hello?" asked a polite voice from inside the room.
"I have come to change your bandages," you say, stepping into the sun drenched guest room.
Sitting up in bed, is a beautiful, curly haired man. He has bright, young blue eyes and a wide, sweet smile.
"If you would be so kind as to inform me of your name?" he asked.
"Oh, it's *your name*," you say, taking a bundle of clean white bandages off the shelf next to the door.
"Could you remove your tunic so I can take off the old bandages? Don't worry, I'm a healer," you add, to make him less nervous. He undoes the laces on his blouse and slides it off his shoulder, revealing smooth, milky white skin covered with a stained cloth. You swallow and walk over. You notice a silver chain around his neck with a gold ring on it. He notices you staring and self-consciously touches it. As you start to peel off the dirty bandage, he winces and his hands move.
"Sorry," you say quickly, stopping to let him prepare himself. He smiles and you continue to reveal what looks like I big purple/black hole in his shoulder. You gasp,
"What did this?" you ask, unable to hide your curiosity.
"A Black Rider," he replies, his eyes not leaving yours. You nod and continue to wrap the new bandage around the smooth skin on his shoulder. "How long will it be before I need a fresh bandage?" he asks, watching your hands weave the fabric.
"Around a day, maybe two," you say, pouring special healing oil onto the bandage and rubbing it in gently. For a second he closes his eyes and he looks so peaceful.
"Will I see you at dinner?" he asks.
"I will be serving, yes. And I have been told to inform you there will be festivities tonight after the feast. I suggest you get some sleep so you will have lots of energy" you advise, taking the old bandage from the bedside table and starting to walk towards the door.
"Will... will you be at the festivities?" he asks, almost shyly.
"As one of the Lady Arwen's ladies in waiting, yes. Now, get some sleep," you say, smiling as you shut the door. You quickly dispose of the bandage and start to walk down the corridor. Also heading down the corridor is a tall mortal man walking along to the kitchens. You follow him, as you are due there to start cooking the feast.
"Can I help you sir?" you ask loudly as he pauses at the entrance to the kitchen.
"Ah yes, I was wondering if you could help me find...Nympheria?" he says, shifting his mid-length hair out of his eyes.
"I will get her for you," you say, brushing past him and opening the door. Walking into the kitchen, you see several other servants, mostly male, preparing giant hams and making fancy deserts. Over in a corner, Nympheria is making loaf of lembas bread. You walk over,
"Nympheria, a man wishes to speak to you," you say quietly.
"Is there? Tell him I'll be out in 2 minutes," she says, franticly washing her hands and sorting her hair. By know you have realised this is the man you heard talking earlier. "Does he have longish auburn hair and blue eyes?"
"Yes," you reply, watching her brush flour off her apron.
"Oh my Valar! I look awful!" she exclaims, running around and removing the now clean apron.
"Who is he?" you ask, walking forward and brushing your fingers through her perfect brown hair.
"Swear on the Valar you wont tell Master Elrond?" she says, turning around and leading you into the corner again. You nod and continue to listen.
"His name is Boromir. He is the Eldest son of Denethor, the steward of Gondor. He has come from Minas Tirith, for the meeting. It has been a long time since he was last here...... Oh, I missed him so much!"
"Nympheria, you know it is against the rules......"
"Shhh! Who is going to know? Unless you...... no. You are my friend, I can trust you with my life." She kisses your forehead and whispers a thank-you. Before you know it you are left with an unfinished loaf while she runs away with her new lover.
Soon, the giant hams have been roasted, and there is a sweet smell of honey beer drifting from the cellar. It is your time to prepare the hall, so you and a couple of servants go into the beautifully decorated room. Your voice echoes under the high ceiling as you ask Madame Lithinae what you need to do.
"Right, I need white drapes over the high table, then set the cutlery, use the best glasses for the wine," she orders, running away to supervise a giant bouquet.
Throwing the giant cloth over the long table (along with the help of several other maids) you feel the small breeze brush your face.
Shining, silver cutlery is neatly set and the crystal glasses are brought out for one last polish. Soon, the bright sun is fading and darkness begins to settle over Rivendell. The hall looks amazing, the silver cloth draping from the walls, all the tables sparkling. Finally, you can leave and bathe, only to dress and head to the Lady Arwen's room.
You can't wait for the festivities, and secretly, after. You have to deliver the flowers to the Prince's chamber and you are so excited. You wash the day's grime away, after placing your long daywear white dress into the wash-basket. Scrubbing your hair with soap, you ponder on what to wear.
You have a long, slightly flared lilac dress that flatters you chest and makes you look taller, but then you have a deep, midnight blue dress with long flared sleeves, and a slightly puffed out petticoat that flatters everything. Deciding on the blue dress, you get out of the tub and wrap a soft towel around your body, stepping into the main room of your servant's quarters. Looking out of the balcony slightly, the cool breeze touches your skin lightly and you smile. Your quarter is 2nd from the end of the long corridor, and if you look to your right, you have a view of one of the occupied guest room's balcony.
Thinking no one can see you; you step out in your towel and let the night air dry your hair and shoulders. Hearing a noise, you shrink into the shadows beside a tall rose bush. Seeing a shadow appear near the guest balcony, you pull the towel tighter around you and gasp lightly as none other than the Prince walks out into the night-with his top half bare! You stare at his tight muscles-no doubt caused by training to be a warrior. Although he looks strong, his hands are beautiful and his fingers slender. He puts one hand on his collarbone and slides it down his shoulder to see if his skin is cold. You breathe a sweet sigh of ecstasy and he stops, looking up straight into your direction.
'Damn!' you remember, the elves of Mirkwood had keen and clear eyesight, and he could no doubt see you behind the red roses.
"Who's there?" he asks, his voice soft and curious. You cough lightly and step out from behind the bush, making sure the towel covers you. A look of relief passes over his face and he smiles, a small, crinkly smile.
"My Lord, I am sorry, I will leave you to be alone" you stammer, averting your gaze.
"By Valar no! This is as much your space as it is mine!" he says, trying to catch your gaze. He walks to the edge of his balcony and looks up. "The stars are bright tonight, which means the feast and festivities should be much enjoyed," he looks back down and catches your eye. You stare at each other for a long time, before you realise you only have a short time before you have to accompany the Lady Arwen to the feast.
"My Lord, I would love to stay and talk until sunrise, but I fear I will be late for the Lady, so if you will be so kind as to excuse me, I will continue to prepare for tonight's feast and festivities,"
"But of course, forgive me," he says, slightly bowing and turning to leave. Just before he disappears inside, he turns to you, "I think you look gorgeous now," and with that, he walks into his chamber. You stand on your balcony, your breath caught in your throat. The prince of Mirkwood just flirted with YOU! You let out a squeal of excitement and rush into your quarters, ripping off the towel and pulling your dress on (by the way, you may think it is weird, but the guys didn't wear underwear then, so neither do you. But the dress is long enough to drape across the floor, so don't worry. This will come in use later......)
You hair is now dry, and you pull it up, letting loose curls drape over your face. You fasten a clip into the messy bun on the back of your hair and stare into the mirror, satisfied with your appearance. (Ok, you DO have long perfectly curly hair, and you ARE beautiful)
Walking out into the corridor you head for the Lady's room. Knocking on the door you hear a small mutter and enter. Looking stunning and beautiful as always, Arwen is standing in the middle of her room, running a comb through her hair.
"Oh, *your name* thank Valar you are here, can you tie my dress up at the back?"
You walk around her and start to lace up the ribbons. She is wearing a pure white silk dress-with a low-neck line. This must be for that Lord she is meeting tonight. Once you have finished, you take her arm and lead her to the hall. Tonight is your chance to shine as Arwen's lady in waiting and you smile inside as you enter the hall-which is quite full with guests. You head up to the top table and lead the Lady to her seat. Sitting next to her you survey the hall. Nympheria's lover is talking with his fellow men and there is a crowd of dwarves in the farthest corner.
A bell rings, signalling for the guests to take their seats. You cough and look down at your lap. Turning to your left you see Arwen talking to a handsome man next to her. You smile and look back down at your lap.
"May I sit here?" a familiar voice asks. You look up to your right and meet his eyes.
"Of course, your highness," you say to Prince Legolas, feeling yourself turn bright red once again. He sits down next to you and his hand brushes against your leg as he pulls his chair in. A shiver runs up your spine and you tense up. Out of the corner of your eye you see him smile. Did he do that on purpose?
There is a silence as Lord Elrond stands up.
"My friends," he booms, "I am glad to have you with me tonight. I hope the festivities will be enjoyed immensely and everyone will meet someone new, enjoy the feast," he finishes. Noise irrupted again as the food was brought into the hall.
"How long have you been in Rivendell?" he asks, turning to you. Coughing because you had started on a bread roll, you cover your mouth.
"I have been here," cough, "all my life,"
"Have you ever been outside the walls?"
"Never. I would love too though. It's like a dream though, it won't happen," you reply, turning to him and smiling. He smiles back,
"How can you be sure dreams don't come true?" he whispers in your ear, sending shock waves down you tense body. He returns to his meal and you stare at your plate blushing. Could the prince of Mirkwood really be this kinky? You giggle and help yourself to a delicate amount of vegetables.
"*Your name*, could you please pass me the yams?" asks Lady Arwen, indicating them on the other side of Legolas. He reaches over you and hands them to her. Taking them she thanks him, and he retrieves his hand, brushing it on your arm for a brief second. This time, he sees you tense and a short laugh escapes his lips. You realise what he is laughing about and you let your hair cover your face.
Sensing your embarrassment he stops and you feel a reassuring hand touch your knee. Looking up at Legolas he smiles and leans towards you,
"Don't forget to bring me flowers," he whispers in your ear.
~*~
Right. This is the first chapter. I think you know the reason this story is rated 'R', so if you review, I'll love you forever and continue to write the story. It's my holidays at the moment and I'll have lots of time to sit here in my chair and write for all you lovely people. So click on the little purple box and await an update! Nikee the Lady of the Wood xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
As the sound galloping hooves meets you ears, you turn just in time to have your hair swept over your face, and see a tall rider with long, blonde hair streaming behind him. Oh, how you wish you could leave the walls of Rivendell, to ride to places like Lothlorien, or Mirkwood. You have stayed in Eastern Eriador all your life. The most far away view you have seen is the Misty Mountains, and you have painted them a thousand times.
You continue to collect the fresh flowers of the niphredil. Messengers had often brought back cuttings from Lothlorien, and the pale, white flowers now bloomed around the entrance to Lord Elrond's house. Just as you finish a bouquet for Lady Arwen's Chamber, the head maid calls for a maid.
As you glide up the stairs to the grand hall, a servant appears at the door and points you in the direction of the courtyard. You nod and smile, before stepping through the tall, carved archway. You pause for a moment in the middle, staring at the stone flowers and vines.
You continue to walk into the courtyard, only to see the same tall rider with long hair, and again, the back of him. Your friend, Nympheria, taps your shoulder from behind.
"His name is Legolas, son of King Thranduil, of the woodland realm! Can you believe it? A Prince! From Mirkwood too, you see his bow? And those arrows, so skilful!"
You smile at her nervousness for she has made it clear he is good looking by her rosy cheeks, but you have yet to see for yourself. The head maid, who is welcoming the prince, calls for a maid once again and you scurry over, leaving Nympheria to drool.
"I trust Nympheria has filled you in on our new guest?" says Madame Lithinae (the head maid).
"Yes. Welcome to Rivendell...your highness," you say, bowing to the royal in front of you. When you return to a standing position, you think you are going to faint. In front of you, is the most beautiful creature you have ever seen in you entire life (which is a long time, as you are an elf).
A pair of sparkling turquoise eyes is staring into yours. Like the flowing river at night, they glowed with an un-earthly radiance. You followed the path down, over beautiful high cheekbones, to pale pinkish lips, succulent and full. Snapping you out of your trance, he spoke,
"Niphredil,"
It is one word, but it is enough to make you hyperventilate. You look down at the flowers in your hand and blush.
"Would it be at all possible if I could have some in my chamber?" he asks, his eyes searching your face.
"Of course your highness," says Madame Lithinae, "She will bring some up to your chamber after supper. Now, if you will be so kind as to follow me, I will show you to your room"
They walk to the other side of the courtyard, and just as he is about to disappear, you are sure he turns and looks at you.
You stand underneath the sun, the breeze whipping your face. Once again, you look at the flowers in your hands and realise you should put them in water.
Holding your long white dress above your knees, you tip toe up the stairs and stop at the door. You can hear voices inside, a man and...... Nympheria? You put your ear close to the door and listen.
"My dear, it had been a long time since I last saw your beautiful face,"
"Oh, stop, someone might hear us!" you hear Nympheria whisper through giggles.
"I don't care. I want the whole world to know about us, for I am in love with you, and that is the most precious thing in the world," the man says. Nympheria gives a small gasp, and the sounds of kissing slowly die away. Once you have made sure the coast is clear, you creep across the hall towards the staircase.
Your mind is racing with all sorts of thoughts when you find yourself outside Lady Arwen's bedchamber. A small knock on the door lets you know there is no one in there. Used to the beautiful surroundings, you take no time to look at the beautiful carved flowers on the ceiling, or the silk, pale drapes on the four-poster bed.
You place the flowers in a tall, glass vase and fill it with water from a jug. The flowers will last a long time, for the water in Rivendell is full of Mother Nature's care. As you turn to leave, you notice parchment lying on the bed. Being a maid, it is your instinct to clear it away.
As you pick up the many sheets of paper, one falls on to the floor. Putting the others on a shelf, you retrieve the missing bit and notice it is some form of diary, dated from this morning:
October 24th, 09:00am
Today, my lord came, for my father has called a meeting. It is my wish to marry him, but my father is against it. For he is a mortal man, and will die when old (or even before?) My dilemma is such a hard one. I am in love, and I will sacrifice everything for it. For when he is old and gone, I will still remember the day we first met, and be happy. I have made my choice, and tomorrow night, I will make it once again. Also, today my friend Prince Legolas arrived. It has been a while since we last met, and he has grown into the man I knew he would be one day. I must leave now, for it is time for luncheon. I will return later, but in the same position I am in now.
You never realised how unhappy Lady Arwen really was. She was always quiet, and spent a lot of time in the gardens, but seemed content with her life. You wonder who this Lord is, and if he felt the same.
A short bell rings and you remember that you were supposed to tend to the new arrivals. Their ears where pointed, so they could be related to elves somehow. You haven't seen their faces yet, and you are curious about what they look like.
You are to tend to the sick one, who is in his bed after something stabbed him. Tales have been floating about, but you are still unsure about what really happened at the watchtower.
Lady Arwen brought him on her horse, and he was in a bad state. You go into the breezy hallway in which his room lays and knock on the door.
"Hello?" asked a polite voice from inside the room.
"I have come to change your bandages," you say, stepping into the sun drenched guest room.
Sitting up in bed, is a beautiful, curly haired man. He has bright, young blue eyes and a wide, sweet smile.
"If you would be so kind as to inform me of your name?" he asked.
"Oh, it's *your name*," you say, taking a bundle of clean white bandages off the shelf next to the door.
"Could you remove your tunic so I can take off the old bandages? Don't worry, I'm a healer," you add, to make him less nervous. He undoes the laces on his blouse and slides it off his shoulder, revealing smooth, milky white skin covered with a stained cloth. You swallow and walk over. You notice a silver chain around his neck with a gold ring on it. He notices you staring and self-consciously touches it. As you start to peel off the dirty bandage, he winces and his hands move.
"Sorry," you say quickly, stopping to let him prepare himself. He smiles and you continue to reveal what looks like I big purple/black hole in his shoulder. You gasp,
"What did this?" you ask, unable to hide your curiosity.
"A Black Rider," he replies, his eyes not leaving yours. You nod and continue to wrap the new bandage around the smooth skin on his shoulder. "How long will it be before I need a fresh bandage?" he asks, watching your hands weave the fabric.
"Around a day, maybe two," you say, pouring special healing oil onto the bandage and rubbing it in gently. For a second he closes his eyes and he looks so peaceful.
"Will I see you at dinner?" he asks.
"I will be serving, yes. And I have been told to inform you there will be festivities tonight after the feast. I suggest you get some sleep so you will have lots of energy" you advise, taking the old bandage from the bedside table and starting to walk towards the door.
"Will... will you be at the festivities?" he asks, almost shyly.
"As one of the Lady Arwen's ladies in waiting, yes. Now, get some sleep," you say, smiling as you shut the door. You quickly dispose of the bandage and start to walk down the corridor. Also heading down the corridor is a tall mortal man walking along to the kitchens. You follow him, as you are due there to start cooking the feast.
"Can I help you sir?" you ask loudly as he pauses at the entrance to the kitchen.
"Ah yes, I was wondering if you could help me find...Nympheria?" he says, shifting his mid-length hair out of his eyes.
"I will get her for you," you say, brushing past him and opening the door. Walking into the kitchen, you see several other servants, mostly male, preparing giant hams and making fancy deserts. Over in a corner, Nympheria is making loaf of lembas bread. You walk over,
"Nympheria, a man wishes to speak to you," you say quietly.
"Is there? Tell him I'll be out in 2 minutes," she says, franticly washing her hands and sorting her hair. By know you have realised this is the man you heard talking earlier. "Does he have longish auburn hair and blue eyes?"
"Yes," you reply, watching her brush flour off her apron.
"Oh my Valar! I look awful!" she exclaims, running around and removing the now clean apron.
"Who is he?" you ask, walking forward and brushing your fingers through her perfect brown hair.
"Swear on the Valar you wont tell Master Elrond?" she says, turning around and leading you into the corner again. You nod and continue to listen.
"His name is Boromir. He is the Eldest son of Denethor, the steward of Gondor. He has come from Minas Tirith, for the meeting. It has been a long time since he was last here...... Oh, I missed him so much!"
"Nympheria, you know it is against the rules......"
"Shhh! Who is going to know? Unless you...... no. You are my friend, I can trust you with my life." She kisses your forehead and whispers a thank-you. Before you know it you are left with an unfinished loaf while she runs away with her new lover.
Soon, the giant hams have been roasted, and there is a sweet smell of honey beer drifting from the cellar. It is your time to prepare the hall, so you and a couple of servants go into the beautifully decorated room. Your voice echoes under the high ceiling as you ask Madame Lithinae what you need to do.
"Right, I need white drapes over the high table, then set the cutlery, use the best glasses for the wine," she orders, running away to supervise a giant bouquet.
Throwing the giant cloth over the long table (along with the help of several other maids) you feel the small breeze brush your face.
Shining, silver cutlery is neatly set and the crystal glasses are brought out for one last polish. Soon, the bright sun is fading and darkness begins to settle over Rivendell. The hall looks amazing, the silver cloth draping from the walls, all the tables sparkling. Finally, you can leave and bathe, only to dress and head to the Lady Arwen's room.
You can't wait for the festivities, and secretly, after. You have to deliver the flowers to the Prince's chamber and you are so excited. You wash the day's grime away, after placing your long daywear white dress into the wash-basket. Scrubbing your hair with soap, you ponder on what to wear.
You have a long, slightly flared lilac dress that flatters you chest and makes you look taller, but then you have a deep, midnight blue dress with long flared sleeves, and a slightly puffed out petticoat that flatters everything. Deciding on the blue dress, you get out of the tub and wrap a soft towel around your body, stepping into the main room of your servant's quarters. Looking out of the balcony slightly, the cool breeze touches your skin lightly and you smile. Your quarter is 2nd from the end of the long corridor, and if you look to your right, you have a view of one of the occupied guest room's balcony.
Thinking no one can see you; you step out in your towel and let the night air dry your hair and shoulders. Hearing a noise, you shrink into the shadows beside a tall rose bush. Seeing a shadow appear near the guest balcony, you pull the towel tighter around you and gasp lightly as none other than the Prince walks out into the night-with his top half bare! You stare at his tight muscles-no doubt caused by training to be a warrior. Although he looks strong, his hands are beautiful and his fingers slender. He puts one hand on his collarbone and slides it down his shoulder to see if his skin is cold. You breathe a sweet sigh of ecstasy and he stops, looking up straight into your direction.
'Damn!' you remember, the elves of Mirkwood had keen and clear eyesight, and he could no doubt see you behind the red roses.
"Who's there?" he asks, his voice soft and curious. You cough lightly and step out from behind the bush, making sure the towel covers you. A look of relief passes over his face and he smiles, a small, crinkly smile.
"My Lord, I am sorry, I will leave you to be alone" you stammer, averting your gaze.
"By Valar no! This is as much your space as it is mine!" he says, trying to catch your gaze. He walks to the edge of his balcony and looks up. "The stars are bright tonight, which means the feast and festivities should be much enjoyed," he looks back down and catches your eye. You stare at each other for a long time, before you realise you only have a short time before you have to accompany the Lady Arwen to the feast.
"My Lord, I would love to stay and talk until sunrise, but I fear I will be late for the Lady, so if you will be so kind as to excuse me, I will continue to prepare for tonight's feast and festivities,"
"But of course, forgive me," he says, slightly bowing and turning to leave. Just before he disappears inside, he turns to you, "I think you look gorgeous now," and with that, he walks into his chamber. You stand on your balcony, your breath caught in your throat. The prince of Mirkwood just flirted with YOU! You let out a squeal of excitement and rush into your quarters, ripping off the towel and pulling your dress on (by the way, you may think it is weird, but the guys didn't wear underwear then, so neither do you. But the dress is long enough to drape across the floor, so don't worry. This will come in use later......)
You hair is now dry, and you pull it up, letting loose curls drape over your face. You fasten a clip into the messy bun on the back of your hair and stare into the mirror, satisfied with your appearance. (Ok, you DO have long perfectly curly hair, and you ARE beautiful)
Walking out into the corridor you head for the Lady's room. Knocking on the door you hear a small mutter and enter. Looking stunning and beautiful as always, Arwen is standing in the middle of her room, running a comb through her hair.
"Oh, *your name* thank Valar you are here, can you tie my dress up at the back?"
You walk around her and start to lace up the ribbons. She is wearing a pure white silk dress-with a low-neck line. This must be for that Lord she is meeting tonight. Once you have finished, you take her arm and lead her to the hall. Tonight is your chance to shine as Arwen's lady in waiting and you smile inside as you enter the hall-which is quite full with guests. You head up to the top table and lead the Lady to her seat. Sitting next to her you survey the hall. Nympheria's lover is talking with his fellow men and there is a crowd of dwarves in the farthest corner.
A bell rings, signalling for the guests to take their seats. You cough and look down at your lap. Turning to your left you see Arwen talking to a handsome man next to her. You smile and look back down at your lap.
"May I sit here?" a familiar voice asks. You look up to your right and meet his eyes.
"Of course, your highness," you say to Prince Legolas, feeling yourself turn bright red once again. He sits down next to you and his hand brushes against your leg as he pulls his chair in. A shiver runs up your spine and you tense up. Out of the corner of your eye you see him smile. Did he do that on purpose?
There is a silence as Lord Elrond stands up.
"My friends," he booms, "I am glad to have you with me tonight. I hope the festivities will be enjoyed immensely and everyone will meet someone new, enjoy the feast," he finishes. Noise irrupted again as the food was brought into the hall.
"How long have you been in Rivendell?" he asks, turning to you. Coughing because you had started on a bread roll, you cover your mouth.
"I have been here," cough, "all my life,"
"Have you ever been outside the walls?"
"Never. I would love too though. It's like a dream though, it won't happen," you reply, turning to him and smiling. He smiles back,
"How can you be sure dreams don't come true?" he whispers in your ear, sending shock waves down you tense body. He returns to his meal and you stare at your plate blushing. Could the prince of Mirkwood really be this kinky? You giggle and help yourself to a delicate amount of vegetables.
"*Your name*, could you please pass me the yams?" asks Lady Arwen, indicating them on the other side of Legolas. He reaches over you and hands them to her. Taking them she thanks him, and he retrieves his hand, brushing it on your arm for a brief second. This time, he sees you tense and a short laugh escapes his lips. You realise what he is laughing about and you let your hair cover your face.
Sensing your embarrassment he stops and you feel a reassuring hand touch your knee. Looking up at Legolas he smiles and leans towards you,
"Don't forget to bring me flowers," he whispers in your ear.
~*~
Right. This is the first chapter. I think you know the reason this story is rated 'R', so if you review, I'll love you forever and continue to write the story. It's my holidays at the moment and I'll have lots of time to sit here in my chair and write for all you lovely people. So click on the little purple box and await an update! Nikee the Lady of the Wood xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx