A/N: Hope you like this all you Legolas fans out there!
It had been months since she had last seen him, months since she had heard his voice or tasted his kisses. Months since she had left him to fight without knowing if he would survive. Months since she had been her true self and for gone the pitiful charade. It would have been simple if a war hadn't overtaken her homeland and caused her to worry day in and day out. It would have been even simpler if she hadn't fallen in love with someone who was on the front line. It would have been simpler if she hadn't had joined him on his quest.
She was withdrawn, not eating very much and not paying attention to what was going on around her. She felt like half a person, not quite whole without the person she loved by her side. Her friends worried about her, her professors tried to talk to her, and her lover tried to reassure her through letters, even if they were few and far between. She was not the same person she had left school as, and not the same person who her friends had once known. She would never be the same without him, the same person she was in secret. For the prying eyes of her fellow students lingered on her every moment of the day and she had to hide who she really was. For unlike her friends, she was not of this world. She was from a world where magic was never hidden from men and elves, dwarves and other creatures roamed freely without having to hide. She came from a world at war, and came back to a world on the brink. She was of the purest of elven kind and had with her all the knowledge of the world. She came from Middle-Earth.
"Hermione, please eat something." Pleaded Harry Potter, pushing some toast and jam towards her from across the table. "You need something in you or you'll collapse."
"Harry's right. You haven't eaten much in three days and you need something. Come to think of it, you haven't eaten much for the past six months." Said Ron Weasley, looking at his friend with worried eyes.
"I'm fine, perfectly fine." Whispered Hermione Granger, getting up from the table and running out of the hall.
Hermione ran up to her room in Gryffindor tower and fell onto her bed. She dropped her heavy bag on the floor and dumped the contents of it onto the cold stone. She reached into her bedside table and took out three letters written on yellowing parchment. All were written in the same hand and all were from a person she cared deeply for. Hermione put only more parchment, a quill, ink and these letters into her bag before getting up and walking out to the Hogwarts grounds. Once outside she walked into the Forbidden Forest where she sat under a rather large tree a little ways into the mass of pine, oak and ash. She sat there most days, reading the letters over and over again, talking to the trees and writing things in elvish. It may still be cold outside, but she could barely feel it, for elves didn't feel these small cold snaps. All the snow had melted from the ground and leaves were gathering on the trees. The smell of spring was in the air and was especially fragrant in the forest. Hermione could hear birds chirping from miles away and could see flower buds opening all around her. Sometimes she would just walk in the woods and watch as vines grew up trees and look at nesting sparrows and finches. No animal bit her or came after her, she spoke sweetly in elvish, her words flowing out like honey and some would come to her and stay with her. She saw unicorns and centaurs, who were normally very fidgety around people. At times she thought that if she asked, they would walk with her right up to the castle.
Hermione no longer went to class, she hadn't since the middle of February, and even then she had only been to class since December. Her friends always asked her where she went off to, but she never told them. Her normally perfect attendance record was tarnished, but her only hope was that by the end of the year she would have finished school and would be free to go home, to where she belonged. After all, she didn't belong in this world. She was just here to learn during the school months, during the summer she went back to Middle-Earth, back to Rivendell. There she saw her mother and grandfather, and sometimes her father. For the past two years, she had also gone to Mirkwood where she saw the man she was in love with, a kind elf who loved her dearly and would do anything to make sure she was safe.
Since it was her last year at Hogwarts, she had been named Head Girl, but her poor attendance and lack of participation was putting her close to being stripped of the title. Her partner, the Head Boy Ian Rice from Ravenclaw, was very upset with her for her unenthused attitude towards their duties. She came to meetings, but never spoke; she patrolled the halls, but never bothered to give anyone detentions or warnings; she helped children, but without talking much. He also didn't like the idea of her not setting a good example for the younger years. She never did her homework or take notes in class. She was showing them that it was all right to run off into the woods without a care in the world. Ian just might get her stripped of her title all on his own.
By lunch, grey clouds were hovering over the grounds and castle, casting shadows over the lake and woods. Hermione only came in to get some food, a roll and an apple, which she ate quickly. However on her way back out to the grounds, out into the dampening air, she was stopped. Harry and Ron and stopped her mere feet from the door, from freedom. She looked at them with an annoyed look, which made them look at each other for a moment before turning to look at her.
"Well, what is it you want?" asked Hermione, her hands on her hips and her head cocked to one side.
"We want to know where you're going and where you've been going for the past few months." Said Harry, looking down at her.
"I'm going out to get some fresh air. It's no big deal." She said, her eyes gazing out the door with longing.
"Hermione, where do you go everyday while we're in class? We know you don't go to the library." Said Ron, pressing further.
Hermione whipped her head around and glared at her two friends. She did not want to be interrogated. "It's none of your damn business where I go and what I do, so lay off!" she cried, running out of the door and across the grounds.
She ran as fast as she would let herself, as she could run much faster than a normal person could and she did not want to give anything away. Once she reached the edge of the forest, she plunged in without thinking of what her friends might say. She could hear their footsteps behind her, and she could feel raindrops falling onto her face. Once she got as far in as she wanted, she stopped and listened for any sound of them. It seemed that the boys didn't want to go into the forest, thinking that she was crazy to do it herself and had gone to tell someone. Or at least, that's what she heard.
Hermione walked through the woods for the rest of the afternoon, thinking of all the people that she cared about who were getting hurt because of Dark Lords. Voldemort was gaining supporters in this world and would most likely launch an attack against some muggle village before the year is out. To this world, Voldemort was the worst thing that could happen in any lifetime of the earth. However, Sauron made Voldemort look like a little puppy. He was also coupled by the traitor Saruman the White, and both had huge Orc army's at their disposal. Middle-Earth was a terrible place to be in this age, as no one is safe from the wraths of Isengard and Mordor.
It seemed that her luck was never good anymore; as this was the day of the spring ball and as a Head she must attend. Out of pure obligation Hermione climbed the stairs up to the girls dormitory and took out her dress for that night. Dinner was to be served before the dancing was to start, and so she did not have to worry about food until later on in the evening. Hermione locked herself in the bathroom, dress, undergarments and slippers in with her and drew herself a bath of rosewater and lemon from the unique taps that graced the side of the tub. She slid in and let the scent of rain and mud wash away from her skin and rested peacefully for the first time in a long while.
Once she was rested, her muscles soothed and her mind clear, she dried herself off and dressed into the garment that she had chosen. Her dress was of elven make, a gift from her mother on her birthday, and was of a fine green material. It was long, with sleeves that settled on her shoulders and held small slits along the arm. The dress clung in a comfortable way and shone with a pale white light that was almost goddess like. Hermione slipped on the white slippers and added the small leaf chain that she had been given years before, to add as one of her final touches. For her hair, she took off the charm that had hid her true appearance and her hair was back to its true colour and sheen. Her black-brown hair came to the middle of her back and was braided half up in a delicate fashion. She wore no make-up, as she had never once touched the stuff and was not about to start now; elves held their own natural beauty.
Once she was ready, her spirits lifted some and her mood more pleasing, Hermione opened the door and walked out into the empty dorm room. It seemed that she had taken too long in getting ready and her roommates had left without her, most likely using the other year's bathrooms. Hermione was quiet as she made her way down to the Great Hall, and relished slightly in the feeling that she would get when the shocked faces of her friends and peers greeted her. She walked with the grace that only one of elven blood would achieve and was light and silent as she almost glided over the stone floor. Once at the end of the stairs, she stood still and watched as some fourth and fifth year students walked into the lavishly decorated hall, giggling mindlessly. After they had gone in, Hermione walked towards the large oak doors and took her three steps into the hall. What met her sights gave her the most joyful feeling that she had had in ages. The hall was decorated in silver, every table looking as if mist was covering it instead of tablecloths. Vases of green leaves, gold and white flowers and silver spiders webs graced the top of the tables and every small table chair was now higher backed and regal looking. Everything looked absolutely magical, as if she had strayed into a dream, and if she was not mistaken, fairy dust was falling from the ceiling. With a graceful flair, Hermione walked into the hall and up to the staff table where the Heads were to be seated. She felt all eyes on her as she took her seat next to Ian and she even saw his mouth fall open ever so slightly.
Dumbledore stood up, clearing his throat as to get the students attention. "I am so glad all of you could make it to this little party. Dinner will start in just a moment, and then after that you can dance or do whatever you feel like doing. This will last until midnight tonight, and then it's off to bed for all of you! Now, lets eat!" said Dumbledore, sitting back down watching as the first course of a green soup appeared in front of him.
The meal went by swimmingly. After the first course, there was a choice of lamb, chicken or pheasant accompanied by roast potatoes and crisp green beans. Dessert was the perfect ending to the perfect meal, and was a light cheesecake drizzled with honey and fresh peaches. Soon the plates were clear and everyone was smiling and talking to one another, but once again the headmaster stood up and brought upon the beginning of the dancing; starting with the Head Girl and Boy. Ian and Hermione walked out into the middle of the dance floor as a graceful slow tune began to play. The music brought Hermione back to Middle-Earth and reminded her of the elven balls she had attended. The entire atmosphere made her feel more at home than she had in ages, and yet she was saddened. There was one person this evening would not be complete without, and he was off facing dangers of an unspeakable fashion. This night was nothing without him.
Even though her lover was not present, Hermione danced like it was her last night on earth, and her gracefulness on the dance floor was gazed at with wonder as she continued to dance with Ian; twirling 'round and 'round. Her dressed whirled around her and she seemed to glow brighter as she moved. The song ended to soon for Ian's liking, but she bowed to him and walked away, leaving him stunned for a few moments before being taken a hold of by a girl from Ravenclaw. As soon as she reached the outskirts of the hall, her friends came up to her. All were from Gryffindor and most her age, and they all came bearing questions.
"Wow Herm you look...great!" said Ron, stunned by her new appearance.
"You do Herm. You look fantastic!" said Harry, a wide smile on his face. "How come you never told us you could dance like that?"
"There are a lot of things you don't know about me Harry." She said quietly, slipping back into her old way of speaking, quiet and mysterious.
"Where in the world did you get that dress? It's gorgeous." Said Lavender Brown, flipping her blonde hair over her shoulder.
"It was a gift from my mother." Answered Hermione, looking downward at the mention of her mother Arwen.
"Um, Herm, not to dampen your mood or anything, but your glowing." Said Ginny Weasley.
"I know." Answered Hermione simply before slipping out of the hall and out the great oak doors.
The outside was just as marvellous as the inside. There had been a warming charm placed all around the grounds and there were benches located near the lake and along a path. Flowering white rose bushes graced the sides of the path and many other white, yellow and gold flowers accompanied them. Spider webs were draped around in many places, as were small trees and ferns and everything glistened with fresh dew. Hermione walked along the path, watching the flowering plants open at her mere presence near them. She walked all along the path until she came to a rather large tree with white flowers blooming all over it. This tree was located near the lake and Hermione stood by it and watched as the flower petal's fell and the round full moon reflected in the lake. She stood there peacefully for over and hour until she came to the conclusion that she would go back to Middle-Earth and help her people. Every person counted in times like these, and something told her that she was needed in her world and that this one would be safe while she was gone. After all, she would be able to be of more help in defeating Voldemort if she had already won a worse war.
Just as she came to this decision, she heard the crumpling of earth beneath feet and the sound of swishing robes. She didn't turn around, as at times like these Albus Dumbledore always seemed to be found. She felt his presence near her, his aging, caring and wise aura that she always felt when he was near or when she was talking to him. She did not turn around until he spoke.
"Quite a nice night, isn't it Miss Granger?" he asked, looking up at the sky and into the moon.
"Yes, it is quite nice. Makes me feel more at home." She said, turning to look at the smiling headmaster.
"You will miss night's like these won't you? Peaceful and serene; simple and quiet." He said, turning from the moon to look at her creamy face.
"I will miss this, but I am needed. An elf-witch will be useful in this war." She said, paying no heed to the flower petal's that fell onto her head to form a crown.
"Yes, you are needed, but think about what difference you can do on your own. No man is an army." He said, his eyes locked with hers.
"That is true, but even the smallest person can change the course of the future." She answered, finding that she could not read him like she normally could read people.
"Wise words for someone so young, but for someone who will see all the ages of the world." He said, looking at her with his smiling face. "I will not stop you from going, but I wish to see you return safely and to see you at your graduation later this year."
"Thank you for not stopping me. I will try and come back for graduation but I can not make any promises." She said, looking away from him and then back up again. "If they ask, can you explain all this to Harry and Ron. All accept the war for I no not wish for them to worry about me."
"I will tell them if they wish to know. Good night Miss Granger, and have a safe journey." He said, turning from her and walking back into the Great Hall.
Once he was out of sight, a broad grin spread across Hermione's face and made her light up in spirit and body. Putting all thoughts of the perils she would soon face and the notion of what she was about to do was childish, she began to jump around under the tree and around the area that she occupied. She jumped and smiled and laughed and was happy. The music from the Great Hall filtered out the door and she could clearly hear 'Wild Child' by Enya being played and this lifted her spirits. As her happiness grew, the flowers and plants around her blossomed and grew brighter. The strong fragrance of the mixed flowers filtered into the castle and even the moon seemed to be brighter. Fireflies circled around her as she jumped and danced and their light grew brighter at her happiness. The whole grounds became more alive and it was all because of the elven princess who was finally going home.
*
It was four in the morning, fog was settling on the grounds of Hogwarts, the remnants of the previous nights ball was still strewn about and everyone was sleeping peacefully. That is, all accept Hermione, who was quietly dressing in the dark of her quiet dorm room. Being an elf allowed her to walk without making a sound, which became crucial at this moment. She first packed up a bag of food that she had gotten from the kitchens and a few extra clothes that she would need. Next, she got out her clothes and weapons, something she would need in Middle-Earth. Her clothes consisted of long brown pants, tall soft-soled boots and a green high-necked shirt with delicate embroidery along the front. She strapped on a quiver and bow, as well as a belt with a sword, knife and her wand. The last thing she put on was her grey cloak made by the elves of Lothlorien. This cloak could conceal you, if that is what you wish, and looked green, brown or grey in different lights. It was fastened at her neck with a leaf brooch veined with silver. The only thing concerning her now was her appearance, which with a simple charm was now back to the way it normally was. Her long hair was in the same style as it had been the night before and showed off her now pointed ears. Her brown eyes were now a bright blue, as blue as the deepest ocean and the brightest sky. Hermione was herself once more.
Hermione took a final look at her room, looking over Parvati Patil and Lavender Brown as they slept and hoped that they would be safe; as well as the rest of her friends and her school. Her bed was made; hospital corner's as always, yet one thing was different. Her Head Girl badge lied on her pillow making the smallest of dents in the fabric, it's surface polished and gleaming. She sighed as she watched the sleeping figures and whispered a last word to them.
"Namariee." Which is 'farewell' in elvish and was spoken soft and light as she left the room and their lives.
Hermione was silent as she made her way down the stairs and into the common room. She didn't wake a sound as she opened up the portrait and didn't even wake the Fat Lady. She saw neither ghost nor teacher as she walked to the Entrance Hall, but soaked up her surrounding's as this would be the last time she would walk this way. It didn't take her long to reach the great oak doors that separated the inside from the outside, and once she was there she stood for a few moments in quiet thought. This was what she wanted to do. This was what she was going to do, and nothing or no one was going to stop her.
Hermione stood just outside the doors and whistled softly and slowly, gradually building in volume as she continued. Through the fog there came a long neigh and a great white mare galloped towards her. This mare had reins on; soft leather ones that were pleasant to the touch, but did not have a saddle on, as this was the way elves rode horses. It took one swift movement to get her on the horse and she took hold of the reins and removed her wand from her belt. She pointed it out into the fog and said an elven spell that used to take her to Rivendell, but had been revised to take her to the west of the North Undeep. She was going to be close to Fangorn Forest where she would re-join three of her companions. The spell didn't even look like it worked, as there were no sparks or flashes, but after a minute or two there was a blurring in the scenery and it all became wavy; almost dream like. Hermione put her wand back on her belt and reared up the horse and took one last look at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry before galloping towards the waves. Once near the horse jumped up and through the waves and they were gone. Horse and rider were no ware to be seen and the blurred scenery was gone, disappearing with them. All was left was the fog, the darkness and chill of the early morning and a Head Girl badge waiting to be found by two panicky girls later that morning.
If another soul had been up at that moment to witness such a sight, they would hear distant music and laughter that had taken place the night before when this elven princess had danced under the flowering tree. The buds of the flowers were still open and still glowed brightly. The ferns and leaves were greener than they had been before, and the fragrance of the flowers was so strong that even in this early morning bees had come to collect the sweet honey. If another soul had been up, they would have been the last to see Hermione Granger on the grounds and the only one to know what was hidden beneath the fog and morning dew.
A/N: All right, this is the first chapter of my Legolas and Hermione fic! I hope you guys like it and will review!!!!!!
It had been months since she had last seen him, months since she had heard his voice or tasted his kisses. Months since she had left him to fight without knowing if he would survive. Months since she had been her true self and for gone the pitiful charade. It would have been simple if a war hadn't overtaken her homeland and caused her to worry day in and day out. It would have been even simpler if she hadn't fallen in love with someone who was on the front line. It would have been simpler if she hadn't had joined him on his quest.
She was withdrawn, not eating very much and not paying attention to what was going on around her. She felt like half a person, not quite whole without the person she loved by her side. Her friends worried about her, her professors tried to talk to her, and her lover tried to reassure her through letters, even if they were few and far between. She was not the same person she had left school as, and not the same person who her friends had once known. She would never be the same without him, the same person she was in secret. For the prying eyes of her fellow students lingered on her every moment of the day and she had to hide who she really was. For unlike her friends, she was not of this world. She was from a world where magic was never hidden from men and elves, dwarves and other creatures roamed freely without having to hide. She came from a world at war, and came back to a world on the brink. She was of the purest of elven kind and had with her all the knowledge of the world. She came from Middle-Earth.
"Hermione, please eat something." Pleaded Harry Potter, pushing some toast and jam towards her from across the table. "You need something in you or you'll collapse."
"Harry's right. You haven't eaten much in three days and you need something. Come to think of it, you haven't eaten much for the past six months." Said Ron Weasley, looking at his friend with worried eyes.
"I'm fine, perfectly fine." Whispered Hermione Granger, getting up from the table and running out of the hall.
Hermione ran up to her room in Gryffindor tower and fell onto her bed. She dropped her heavy bag on the floor and dumped the contents of it onto the cold stone. She reached into her bedside table and took out three letters written on yellowing parchment. All were written in the same hand and all were from a person she cared deeply for. Hermione put only more parchment, a quill, ink and these letters into her bag before getting up and walking out to the Hogwarts grounds. Once outside she walked into the Forbidden Forest where she sat under a rather large tree a little ways into the mass of pine, oak and ash. She sat there most days, reading the letters over and over again, talking to the trees and writing things in elvish. It may still be cold outside, but she could barely feel it, for elves didn't feel these small cold snaps. All the snow had melted from the ground and leaves were gathering on the trees. The smell of spring was in the air and was especially fragrant in the forest. Hermione could hear birds chirping from miles away and could see flower buds opening all around her. Sometimes she would just walk in the woods and watch as vines grew up trees and look at nesting sparrows and finches. No animal bit her or came after her, she spoke sweetly in elvish, her words flowing out like honey and some would come to her and stay with her. She saw unicorns and centaurs, who were normally very fidgety around people. At times she thought that if she asked, they would walk with her right up to the castle.
Hermione no longer went to class, she hadn't since the middle of February, and even then she had only been to class since December. Her friends always asked her where she went off to, but she never told them. Her normally perfect attendance record was tarnished, but her only hope was that by the end of the year she would have finished school and would be free to go home, to where she belonged. After all, she didn't belong in this world. She was just here to learn during the school months, during the summer she went back to Middle-Earth, back to Rivendell. There she saw her mother and grandfather, and sometimes her father. For the past two years, she had also gone to Mirkwood where she saw the man she was in love with, a kind elf who loved her dearly and would do anything to make sure she was safe.
Since it was her last year at Hogwarts, she had been named Head Girl, but her poor attendance and lack of participation was putting her close to being stripped of the title. Her partner, the Head Boy Ian Rice from Ravenclaw, was very upset with her for her unenthused attitude towards their duties. She came to meetings, but never spoke; she patrolled the halls, but never bothered to give anyone detentions or warnings; she helped children, but without talking much. He also didn't like the idea of her not setting a good example for the younger years. She never did her homework or take notes in class. She was showing them that it was all right to run off into the woods without a care in the world. Ian just might get her stripped of her title all on his own.
By lunch, grey clouds were hovering over the grounds and castle, casting shadows over the lake and woods. Hermione only came in to get some food, a roll and an apple, which she ate quickly. However on her way back out to the grounds, out into the dampening air, she was stopped. Harry and Ron and stopped her mere feet from the door, from freedom. She looked at them with an annoyed look, which made them look at each other for a moment before turning to look at her.
"Well, what is it you want?" asked Hermione, her hands on her hips and her head cocked to one side.
"We want to know where you're going and where you've been going for the past few months." Said Harry, looking down at her.
"I'm going out to get some fresh air. It's no big deal." She said, her eyes gazing out the door with longing.
"Hermione, where do you go everyday while we're in class? We know you don't go to the library." Said Ron, pressing further.
Hermione whipped her head around and glared at her two friends. She did not want to be interrogated. "It's none of your damn business where I go and what I do, so lay off!" she cried, running out of the door and across the grounds.
She ran as fast as she would let herself, as she could run much faster than a normal person could and she did not want to give anything away. Once she reached the edge of the forest, she plunged in without thinking of what her friends might say. She could hear their footsteps behind her, and she could feel raindrops falling onto her face. Once she got as far in as she wanted, she stopped and listened for any sound of them. It seemed that the boys didn't want to go into the forest, thinking that she was crazy to do it herself and had gone to tell someone. Or at least, that's what she heard.
Hermione walked through the woods for the rest of the afternoon, thinking of all the people that she cared about who were getting hurt because of Dark Lords. Voldemort was gaining supporters in this world and would most likely launch an attack against some muggle village before the year is out. To this world, Voldemort was the worst thing that could happen in any lifetime of the earth. However, Sauron made Voldemort look like a little puppy. He was also coupled by the traitor Saruman the White, and both had huge Orc army's at their disposal. Middle-Earth was a terrible place to be in this age, as no one is safe from the wraths of Isengard and Mordor.
It seemed that her luck was never good anymore; as this was the day of the spring ball and as a Head she must attend. Out of pure obligation Hermione climbed the stairs up to the girls dormitory and took out her dress for that night. Dinner was to be served before the dancing was to start, and so she did not have to worry about food until later on in the evening. Hermione locked herself in the bathroom, dress, undergarments and slippers in with her and drew herself a bath of rosewater and lemon from the unique taps that graced the side of the tub. She slid in and let the scent of rain and mud wash away from her skin and rested peacefully for the first time in a long while.
Once she was rested, her muscles soothed and her mind clear, she dried herself off and dressed into the garment that she had chosen. Her dress was of elven make, a gift from her mother on her birthday, and was of a fine green material. It was long, with sleeves that settled on her shoulders and held small slits along the arm. The dress clung in a comfortable way and shone with a pale white light that was almost goddess like. Hermione slipped on the white slippers and added the small leaf chain that she had been given years before, to add as one of her final touches. For her hair, she took off the charm that had hid her true appearance and her hair was back to its true colour and sheen. Her black-brown hair came to the middle of her back and was braided half up in a delicate fashion. She wore no make-up, as she had never once touched the stuff and was not about to start now; elves held their own natural beauty.
Once she was ready, her spirits lifted some and her mood more pleasing, Hermione opened the door and walked out into the empty dorm room. It seemed that she had taken too long in getting ready and her roommates had left without her, most likely using the other year's bathrooms. Hermione was quiet as she made her way down to the Great Hall, and relished slightly in the feeling that she would get when the shocked faces of her friends and peers greeted her. She walked with the grace that only one of elven blood would achieve and was light and silent as she almost glided over the stone floor. Once at the end of the stairs, she stood still and watched as some fourth and fifth year students walked into the lavishly decorated hall, giggling mindlessly. After they had gone in, Hermione walked towards the large oak doors and took her three steps into the hall. What met her sights gave her the most joyful feeling that she had had in ages. The hall was decorated in silver, every table looking as if mist was covering it instead of tablecloths. Vases of green leaves, gold and white flowers and silver spiders webs graced the top of the tables and every small table chair was now higher backed and regal looking. Everything looked absolutely magical, as if she had strayed into a dream, and if she was not mistaken, fairy dust was falling from the ceiling. With a graceful flair, Hermione walked into the hall and up to the staff table where the Heads were to be seated. She felt all eyes on her as she took her seat next to Ian and she even saw his mouth fall open ever so slightly.
Dumbledore stood up, clearing his throat as to get the students attention. "I am so glad all of you could make it to this little party. Dinner will start in just a moment, and then after that you can dance or do whatever you feel like doing. This will last until midnight tonight, and then it's off to bed for all of you! Now, lets eat!" said Dumbledore, sitting back down watching as the first course of a green soup appeared in front of him.
The meal went by swimmingly. After the first course, there was a choice of lamb, chicken or pheasant accompanied by roast potatoes and crisp green beans. Dessert was the perfect ending to the perfect meal, and was a light cheesecake drizzled with honey and fresh peaches. Soon the plates were clear and everyone was smiling and talking to one another, but once again the headmaster stood up and brought upon the beginning of the dancing; starting with the Head Girl and Boy. Ian and Hermione walked out into the middle of the dance floor as a graceful slow tune began to play. The music brought Hermione back to Middle-Earth and reminded her of the elven balls she had attended. The entire atmosphere made her feel more at home than she had in ages, and yet she was saddened. There was one person this evening would not be complete without, and he was off facing dangers of an unspeakable fashion. This night was nothing without him.
Even though her lover was not present, Hermione danced like it was her last night on earth, and her gracefulness on the dance floor was gazed at with wonder as she continued to dance with Ian; twirling 'round and 'round. Her dressed whirled around her and she seemed to glow brighter as she moved. The song ended to soon for Ian's liking, but she bowed to him and walked away, leaving him stunned for a few moments before being taken a hold of by a girl from Ravenclaw. As soon as she reached the outskirts of the hall, her friends came up to her. All were from Gryffindor and most her age, and they all came bearing questions.
"Wow Herm you look...great!" said Ron, stunned by her new appearance.
"You do Herm. You look fantastic!" said Harry, a wide smile on his face. "How come you never told us you could dance like that?"
"There are a lot of things you don't know about me Harry." She said quietly, slipping back into her old way of speaking, quiet and mysterious.
"Where in the world did you get that dress? It's gorgeous." Said Lavender Brown, flipping her blonde hair over her shoulder.
"It was a gift from my mother." Answered Hermione, looking downward at the mention of her mother Arwen.
"Um, Herm, not to dampen your mood or anything, but your glowing." Said Ginny Weasley.
"I know." Answered Hermione simply before slipping out of the hall and out the great oak doors.
The outside was just as marvellous as the inside. There had been a warming charm placed all around the grounds and there were benches located near the lake and along a path. Flowering white rose bushes graced the sides of the path and many other white, yellow and gold flowers accompanied them. Spider webs were draped around in many places, as were small trees and ferns and everything glistened with fresh dew. Hermione walked along the path, watching the flowering plants open at her mere presence near them. She walked all along the path until she came to a rather large tree with white flowers blooming all over it. This tree was located near the lake and Hermione stood by it and watched as the flower petal's fell and the round full moon reflected in the lake. She stood there peacefully for over and hour until she came to the conclusion that she would go back to Middle-Earth and help her people. Every person counted in times like these, and something told her that she was needed in her world and that this one would be safe while she was gone. After all, she would be able to be of more help in defeating Voldemort if she had already won a worse war.
Just as she came to this decision, she heard the crumpling of earth beneath feet and the sound of swishing robes. She didn't turn around, as at times like these Albus Dumbledore always seemed to be found. She felt his presence near her, his aging, caring and wise aura that she always felt when he was near or when she was talking to him. She did not turn around until he spoke.
"Quite a nice night, isn't it Miss Granger?" he asked, looking up at the sky and into the moon.
"Yes, it is quite nice. Makes me feel more at home." She said, turning to look at the smiling headmaster.
"You will miss night's like these won't you? Peaceful and serene; simple and quiet." He said, turning from the moon to look at her creamy face.
"I will miss this, but I am needed. An elf-witch will be useful in this war." She said, paying no heed to the flower petal's that fell onto her head to form a crown.
"Yes, you are needed, but think about what difference you can do on your own. No man is an army." He said, his eyes locked with hers.
"That is true, but even the smallest person can change the course of the future." She answered, finding that she could not read him like she normally could read people.
"Wise words for someone so young, but for someone who will see all the ages of the world." He said, looking at her with his smiling face. "I will not stop you from going, but I wish to see you return safely and to see you at your graduation later this year."
"Thank you for not stopping me. I will try and come back for graduation but I can not make any promises." She said, looking away from him and then back up again. "If they ask, can you explain all this to Harry and Ron. All accept the war for I no not wish for them to worry about me."
"I will tell them if they wish to know. Good night Miss Granger, and have a safe journey." He said, turning from her and walking back into the Great Hall.
Once he was out of sight, a broad grin spread across Hermione's face and made her light up in spirit and body. Putting all thoughts of the perils she would soon face and the notion of what she was about to do was childish, she began to jump around under the tree and around the area that she occupied. She jumped and smiled and laughed and was happy. The music from the Great Hall filtered out the door and she could clearly hear 'Wild Child' by Enya being played and this lifted her spirits. As her happiness grew, the flowers and plants around her blossomed and grew brighter. The strong fragrance of the mixed flowers filtered into the castle and even the moon seemed to be brighter. Fireflies circled around her as she jumped and danced and their light grew brighter at her happiness. The whole grounds became more alive and it was all because of the elven princess who was finally going home.
*
It was four in the morning, fog was settling on the grounds of Hogwarts, the remnants of the previous nights ball was still strewn about and everyone was sleeping peacefully. That is, all accept Hermione, who was quietly dressing in the dark of her quiet dorm room. Being an elf allowed her to walk without making a sound, which became crucial at this moment. She first packed up a bag of food that she had gotten from the kitchens and a few extra clothes that she would need. Next, she got out her clothes and weapons, something she would need in Middle-Earth. Her clothes consisted of long brown pants, tall soft-soled boots and a green high-necked shirt with delicate embroidery along the front. She strapped on a quiver and bow, as well as a belt with a sword, knife and her wand. The last thing she put on was her grey cloak made by the elves of Lothlorien. This cloak could conceal you, if that is what you wish, and looked green, brown or grey in different lights. It was fastened at her neck with a leaf brooch veined with silver. The only thing concerning her now was her appearance, which with a simple charm was now back to the way it normally was. Her long hair was in the same style as it had been the night before and showed off her now pointed ears. Her brown eyes were now a bright blue, as blue as the deepest ocean and the brightest sky. Hermione was herself once more.
Hermione took a final look at her room, looking over Parvati Patil and Lavender Brown as they slept and hoped that they would be safe; as well as the rest of her friends and her school. Her bed was made; hospital corner's as always, yet one thing was different. Her Head Girl badge lied on her pillow making the smallest of dents in the fabric, it's surface polished and gleaming. She sighed as she watched the sleeping figures and whispered a last word to them.
"Namariee." Which is 'farewell' in elvish and was spoken soft and light as she left the room and their lives.
Hermione was silent as she made her way down the stairs and into the common room. She didn't wake a sound as she opened up the portrait and didn't even wake the Fat Lady. She saw neither ghost nor teacher as she walked to the Entrance Hall, but soaked up her surrounding's as this would be the last time she would walk this way. It didn't take her long to reach the great oak doors that separated the inside from the outside, and once she was there she stood for a few moments in quiet thought. This was what she wanted to do. This was what she was going to do, and nothing or no one was going to stop her.
Hermione stood just outside the doors and whistled softly and slowly, gradually building in volume as she continued. Through the fog there came a long neigh and a great white mare galloped towards her. This mare had reins on; soft leather ones that were pleasant to the touch, but did not have a saddle on, as this was the way elves rode horses. It took one swift movement to get her on the horse and she took hold of the reins and removed her wand from her belt. She pointed it out into the fog and said an elven spell that used to take her to Rivendell, but had been revised to take her to the west of the North Undeep. She was going to be close to Fangorn Forest where she would re-join three of her companions. The spell didn't even look like it worked, as there were no sparks or flashes, but after a minute or two there was a blurring in the scenery and it all became wavy; almost dream like. Hermione put her wand back on her belt and reared up the horse and took one last look at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry before galloping towards the waves. Once near the horse jumped up and through the waves and they were gone. Horse and rider were no ware to be seen and the blurred scenery was gone, disappearing with them. All was left was the fog, the darkness and chill of the early morning and a Head Girl badge waiting to be found by two panicky girls later that morning.
If another soul had been up at that moment to witness such a sight, they would hear distant music and laughter that had taken place the night before when this elven princess had danced under the flowering tree. The buds of the flowers were still open and still glowed brightly. The ferns and leaves were greener than they had been before, and the fragrance of the flowers was so strong that even in this early morning bees had come to collect the sweet honey. If another soul had been up, they would have been the last to see Hermione Granger on the grounds and the only one to know what was hidden beneath the fog and morning dew.
A/N: All right, this is the first chapter of my Legolas and Hermione fic! I hope you guys like it and will review!!!!!!